When a loved companion develops dog food allergies, the experience can be taxing for the entire family. Our furry companions have no way to alert us that their food or favorite snacks are making them ill. As demonstrated by the countless canine deaths each year due to accidental poisoning, dogs are perfectly content [...]]]>

When a loved companion develops dog food allergies, the experience can be taxing for the entire family. Our furry companions have no way to alert us that their food or favorite snacks are making them ill. As demonstrated by the countless canine deaths each year due to accidental poisoning, dogs are perfectly content with eating something that is not good for them as long as it smells tasty.

The only way to know for certain whether a dog’s symptoms are caused by allergies, illness, or food intolerance an owner must embark on the enlightening journey of “trial and error”.  Many common signs of dog food allergies are also applicable to a great variety of diseases and simple environmental disturbances.

Nobody wants a sick or unhappy puppy – but these poor sensitive pooches still have to eat! Diagnosing a pet’s allergy triggers can be stressful and potentially emotional but vital for good dog care. Immediate veterinary assistance is suggested for serious symptoms since it can take months to figure out the offending ingredient.

The most common sign of a dog food allergy is a rash or itchy skin, sometimes accompanied by dandruff or hair loss. Look out for excessive itching, but be sure that the problem is not simply a lack of humidity in the home – some breeds are especially sensitive to dry air. Skin and ear infections that recur after treatment can be symptoms that are often skipped over or wrongly attributed to other causes. Frequent bowel movements, on the other hand, are impossible to ignore – and a very strong sign of allergies.

Your canine does not have to suffer with dog food allergies forever. Soothe your puppy’s pain with thorough research and taking positive action. Allergies are not as uncommon as some would believe – you may be surprised to find out that your canine’s strange quirk is actually a symptom!

A Look At Breeds For Puppy Training

Here are some puppy facts about the Argentine Dogo to consider for puppy training.

Originating during the 1920′s, the Argentino Dogo breed was developed by Dr. Antonio Nores Martinez to be a fearless big game hunter. They were also used in police and military work as well [...]]]>

A Look At Breeds For Puppy Training

Here are some puppy facts about the Argentine Dogo to consider for puppy training.

Originating during the 1920′s, the Argentino Dogo breed was developed by Dr. Antonio Nores Martinez to be a fearless big game hunter. They were also used in police and military work as well as a family guard dog and guide dog. However, Argentino Dogo’s became a favorite of those involved in the bloodsport of dog fighting and as a result gained negative notoriety. In 1991 the Argentine Dogo was banned in Britain under the Dangerous Dog Act. They are also banned in Australia.

With a unique coat, extremely strong jaws, and intense expression, the Argentine Dogo is a muscular breed of Mastiff proportion. This dog breed is highly intelligent, courageous, and mentally stable. Unprovoked aggressiveness or cowardice is considered to be a severe defect.

The Argentine Dogo is not recommended for the first time dog owner. This breed is extremely dominant and requires a dominant owner. It is crucial that new owners find ethical and reputable breeders as a steady temperament is imperative. Argentine Dogo’s are loyal and devoted to family and make excellent guardians of their home and territory. They will do well with other pets they have been raised with. They are good with children but should never be left unsupervised. The Argentine Dogo is a breed that exhibits dignity and is imposing in appearance. Potential owners need to be aware that this breed may be targeted for banning laws. In addition, insurance companies may refuse to provide homeowner policies due to the risk of legal issues.

The Argentine Dogo coat is glossy, thick, short and is soft in texture. They are constant shedders. Weekly brushing is required to minimize loose and dead hair. Bathing should only be done when necessary using a mild shampoo or a shampoo formulated for white coats. Frequent nail clipping is required. The Argentine Dogo is relatively healthy, although deafness and hip dysplasia can occur.

Early intense socialization and obedience training is an absolute must. The Argentine Dogo breed is highly intelligent and training must be done with respect, love, firmness, fairness, and consistency. The Argentine Dogo responds well to reward. Unpredictable behavior can occur if training is done with harshness, kennel isolation, or a regime of tough training. They excel in agility, as guide dogs, and police work.

Argentine Dogo’s thrive on athletic activity and vigorous exercise. They are not recommended for apartment living. They do best in a securely fenced yard. The Argentine Dogo’s make good walking and jogging companions provided they are securely leashed and muzzled when in public.

A Look At Breeds For Puppy Training

Here are some puppy facts about the Appenzell Mountain Dog to consider for puppy training.

Of the four Alpine breeds, the Appenzell Mountain Dog is the least well known and is extremely rare. Originating in Switzerland, this dog breed was used as a herd guardian, cattle mover, [...]]]>

A Look At Breeds For Puppy Training

Here are some puppy facts about the Appenzell Mountain Dog to consider for puppy training.

Of the four Alpine breeds, the Appenzell Mountain Dog is the least well known and is extremely rare. Originating in Switzerland, this dog breed was used as a herd guardian, cattle mover, rescue dog, and cart-puller. Today, the Appenzell Mountain Dog has retained their working heritage and is difficult to find and acquire.

The Appenzell Mountain Dog is muscular, athletic, and powerful. The Appenzell possesses tremendous endurance and agility. They are versatile, utilitarian, and hard-working.

The Appenzell Mountain Dog breed is a double coat breed. The outer coat is short, thick, and glossy. The under coat is soft and dense. This breed is heavy shedding.

The Appenzell Mountain Dog is not recommended for first time dog owners. Although they are loyal and devoted companions, this breed is not solely a pet. Appenzell’s are first and foremost a working breed. They are hardy, courageous, and affectionate. They are highly protective of their family, home, and territory. The Appenzell Mountain Dog does best with considerate children. They do well with other dogs and household pets they have been raised with. The Appenzell does not do well if they are isolated or ignored. They will become destructive if they are bored or lonely. They have a tendency to bark incessantly.

The Appenzell Mountain Dog requires occasional brushing with a firm bristle brush to remove loose and dead hair is recommended. It is important to frequently check the ears and paw pads for debris. Bathing should only be done when necessary. Due to the rarity of this breed there are no known health issues.

Early socialization and obedience training is absolutely crucial. The Appenzell Mountain Dog breed is highly intelligent but requires a dominant handler. They do not respond to harsh or heavy-handed methods. Training must be done with firmness, respect, fairness, and consistency.

The Appenzell Mountain Dog is not recommended for apartment or city living. This breed requires an inordinate amount of physical exercise and mental stimulation. They do best in a rural setting with room to roam and a job to do.

A Look At Breeds For Puppy Training

Here are some puppy facts about the Anatolian Shepherd to consider for puppy training.

Originating over 6,000 years ago in Turkey, the Anatolian Shepherd were bred to be used as a guardian of both property and livestock. This breed was noted for being able to make independent [...]]]>

A Look At Breeds For Puppy Training

Here are some puppy facts about the Anatolian Shepherd to consider for puppy training.

Originating over 6,000 years ago in Turkey, the Anatolian Shepherd were bred to be used as a guardian of both property and livestock. This breed was noted for being able to make independent decisions as well as for their ability to withstand harsh climates, which was necessary for their nomadic way of life. This ancient breed is regarded as the national emblem of Turkey.

The Anatolian Shepherd is large and bold. This breed possesses great endurance and is extremely agile. They are confident, reliable, proud, and hard-working. A majestic and noble breed, the Anatolian Shepherds versatility enables them to fulfill such duties as companion, guardian, and show dog.

The Anatolian Shepherd has two basic coat types: short and rough. The short coat is approximately one inch in length; the rough coat is approximately four inches in length. The neck hair is longer and thicker than the hair on the body. This is a double coat breed that has a thick undercoat. The color of the coat is typically fawn with the mask being black. However, other frequently seen colors are brindle, pinto, or white. The Anatolian Shepherd is a seasonal heavy shedder.

A loyal, deeply devoted, and intelligent breed, the Anatolian Shepherd is calm, affectionate, and brave. They are possessive and protective of their family, home, and territory. Due to their large size they are not recommended for homes with small children. They will generally get along with dogs and other household pets they have been raised with. They are wary and suspicious of strangers. This breed has a tendency to bark loudly for extended periods of time and is prone to digging. The Anatolian Shepherd may be stubborn and dominant. They are not recommended for the sedentary, apathetic, or novice dog owner.

The Anatolian Shepherd requires brushing once a week with special attention given to the coat during the heavy seasonal shedding. Bathing should only be done when absolutely necessary. This dog breed is highly susceptible to fleas, ticks, and fly bites. They may also be prone to hip dysplasia, eyelid entropion, sensitivity to anesthesia, and hypothyroidism.

This breed must have early socialization and basic obedience training. They will not respond to harshness or heavy-handed methods. Training must be done with respect, firmness, fairness, patience, consistency, and love. The Anatolian Shepherd requires a dominant owner.

The Anatolian Shepherd needs an inordinate amount of exercise and thrives on being given a job to do. This breed is not recommended for apartment, condominium, or city dwelling. They do best in a rural farm setting where they can romp and roam; or in a home with a large securely fenced yard.

A Look At Breeds For Puppy Training

Here are some puppy facts about the American Water Spaniel to consider for puppy training.

The American Water Spaniel is most commonly referred to as AWS. Since the 18th century this dog breed has been used on the farm and for hunting, particularly in Minnesota and Wisconsin. [...]]]>

A Look At Breeds For Puppy Training

Here are some puppy facts about the American Water Spaniel to consider for puppy training.

The American Water Spaniel is most commonly referred to as AWS. Since the 18th century this dog breed has been used on the farm and for hunting, particularly in Minnesota and Wisconsin. They are one of only a few breeds developed in America, and are considered a rare breed. The American Water Spaniel is virtually unknown outside of the United States. They were designated as Wisconsin’s official state dog in 1986.

The American Water Spaniel is a medium sized dog. This American original excels at flushing out game and retrieving. As is typical of the Spaniel breed they hunt both feather and fur with excitement and enthusiasm. The American Water Spaniel is friendly, willing to please, and intelligent. They are avid hunters, farm workers, and amiable companions.

The American Water Spaniel has a double coat, which is distinctive and weather resistant. The outer coat ranges from tightly curled to wavy, while the under coat is dense and protects this breed from weather and water. The coat is neither coarse nor soft, but somewhat oily. The color may be dark chocolate, brown, or solid liver. This breed is a light shedder.

This breed is loyal, energetic, obedient, and persistent. They are generally gentle with children and other pets. They may become aggressive with dogs they do not know. The American Water Spaniel is an ideal family pet. If they are properly introduced they are friendly with strangers. They may become attached to one particular person within the family unit. They are an excellent watchdog, and have a tendency to bark excessively. Many American Water Spaniel’ will “yodel” when excited. They love attention, but are fully capable of creating their own entertainment.

American Water Spaniels require a thorough brushing at least twice a week. Bathing should only be done when absolutely necessary using a mild shampoo. It is essential that the coat not be stripped of the natural oils. Occasional professional clipping of the coat is recommended to keep this breed from looking “ratty”. The lack of popularity of the American Water Spaniel has enabled them to remain free of genetic health issues. They may, however, have skin problems.

The American Water Spaniel is slow to maturation and may be two years of age before they are able to settle into a training program. However, they do require extensive socialization at an early age. They may be difficult to housetrain and the crate method is highly recommended. This breed has a highly sensitive nature and does not respond to harsh or heavy-handed training methods. If they are harshly disciplined they may exhibit “fear-biting”. It is important that training be done with patience, love, respect, consistency, and fairness.

American Water Spaniels require an inordinate amount of physical exercise, and enjoys swimming and hunting. They have a tendency to roam, so daily jogging or walking must be done with the American Water Spaniel securely leashed. They benefit from play sessions such as Frisbee or a game of “fetch”. The American Water Spaniel will do okay in an apartment provided they are given sufficient exercise and a securely fenced yard is available. They prefer a home in the country setting with room to run.

A Look At Breeds For Puppy Training

Here are some puppy facts about the Beagle to consider for puppy training.

The Beagle was originally bred for hunting purposes and does remarkably well. Being a scent hound, this dog breed has the tendency to follow his nose and ignore anything and everything so obedience training [...]]]>

A Look At Breeds For Puppy Training

Here are some puppy facts about the Beagle to consider for puppy training.

The Beagle was originally bred for hunting purposes and does remarkably well. Being a scent hound, this dog breed has the tendency to follow his nose and ignore anything and everything so obedience training at an early age is a must. The Beagle originated as a cross between the Harrier and many other hounds in England. This breed does best when hunting hare, pheasant, or quail.

The Beagle is full of energy and does great in a family environment. They are very lively, active, and high energy making a wonderful child’s companion given the proper socialization. This dog breed is alert and of even temperament and should never show signs of aggression or timidity. The Beagle can be very mischievous and very bold at times so proper precautions must be taken when training and/or socializing this fun loving breed.

The Beagle has a hound type coat of medium length making grooming relatively easy for this breed. The hair should lie close to the body of the dog and should be hard, never soft or silky. The Beagle looks like a small English Foxhound. Beagles have a very sleek and shorthaired coat.

The Beagle is an all around happy dog that makes a wonderful companion for many different families. This breed adapts to many different environments and lifestyles, if not all. The Beagle is very eager to please, and is very intelligent however training must be consistent as this breed tends to lose interest and focus on something that catches his attention. This breed does extremely well with children, and can do exceptionally well with other pets if socialized properly.

Beagles should require daily brushing to remove any dead or loose hair. A wipe down with a damp towel should suffice for the bathing aspect. However a rubber, wire, or hard bristled brush would work best for the brushing aspect. The ears of this breed should be cleaned on a regular basis, as this breed is prone to painful ears or ear infections. The nails of the Beagle should also be trimmed. This breed is an average shedder, which can be controlled with regular combing.

The Beagle is very intelligent and very eager to please making him a wonderful student to work with. However, they do tend to lose interest fairly quickly as they are bound to pick up a scent and follow it. This is when obedience training definitely comes in handy. If properly trained, the Beagle should listen however, if not trained properly, ignoring is a big problem. Consistency and firm yet gentle handling is a must if this breed is to excel as they so desperately want to.

The Beagle is fairly active and loves long and vigorous walks, as they are the outdoorsy type. Considering they have a very strong hunting instinct, this breed should always be kept on a leash or in a fenced in yard as he is bound to run off if something catches his interest. Two long daily walks are recommended, as this breed seems to have great stamina and be somewhat tireless. The Beagle responds best in a home with a large yard.