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Roxy & Lexi from Tonya DrachKody Bear & Bella Mia from Marilyn WetterTeague of the Never Bean Better packTank from Trudie HarringtonLiza from Jonnie Ball PoerBella, Beasley, Sadie & Birdee from Denise Fain BastLoki from Audi JohnstonSkye & Sam from Rebecca DeckerFrosty from Rhonda JamesElvis from Rich Endean-EvansBex from Tammy WallaceLouie (in front of Santa) from Steve BravardDexter from Tori MorrisonFionn from Amber LeeDaisy Marie from Sandy PostGabbie from Darlene Shandorf D’amatoDante from Carol Panter
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The post Border Collie by dogedit appeared first on Dogster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren't considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Dogster.com.
Quick Facts
Weight: 30 – 50 pounds (13.61 – 22.68 kg)
Height: 18 – 21 inches (45.72 – 53.34 cm)
The Look of a Border Collie
A medium-sized dog with a light frame and long hair, the typical Border Collie has a slightly wide head with a tapered muzzle, half-perked ears and dark, oval eyes. The long tail sometimes raises but never curls over the back. They have two types of coat: sleek and coarse (which is slightly longer than sleek). Colors include black, black & white, red & white, tri-color and black & gray. Overall, Border Collies have an athletic body—strong and agile, quick and coordinated—that seems always ready for action.
Traits
Long, two-toned mane
Smart and independent
Eager to please
Suspicious of strangers
Great herders
Perfectionists
Tireless workers
Ideal Human Companion
Singles
Agility trainers
Families with older children
Shepherds
What They Are Like to Live With
Border Collies are loyal, trainable, whip-smart pets with an oversupply of energy; i.e. they won’t just hang out on the couch. They need lots of space to run, so a big backyard (or even a farm) suits them best. These dogs are the ideal companions for those who work outdoors or across wide-open spaces.
Easily trainable and eager to please, Border Collies can sometimes be perfectionists when it comes to learning and executing new skills. Always give them tasks and they will serve you until the day is done. They form a strong bond with their owners but can be standoffish with strangers. Border Collies will let you know fairly quickly if someone is approaching the house.
They have natural herding instincts that can sometimes come into play in the household: Young children and small pets may get “herded” from time-to-time. These are tough, busy and sometimes high-strung dogs with a determined drive and focus. People who like dog sports will love Border Collies. They are great competitors.
Things You Should Know
If you’re just looking for a nice family pet, a Border Collie might not be the ideal choice. These are demanding dogs requiring dedicated owners. They need lots of attention, plenty of outdoor exercise and—if possible—something to do: This could be a task, training exercise or a “herding” game. Border Collies are so crafty, intelligent and full of energy that it would be a shame to leave them alone all day in the house.
Border Collies also like direction. A firm (but friendly) owner who can keep up with obedience lessons and training is necessary. They have a tendency to dominate weak-willed owners, so make sure your Border Collie knows who’s the boss. However, severe punishment or harsh treatment can elicit strange, irrational reactions. Regular doses of positive reinforcement will help them thrive.
Always remember to keep your Border Collie active and challenged: If bored or neglected, they can cause trouble by being destructive in the yard or with personal property.
A healthy Border Collie can live as long as 15 years. Common health problems include hip dysplasia, deafness and epilepsy.
Border Collie History
Considered the world’s best sheepherder, Border Collies originated on the Scottish/English border in Northumberland, derived from a mixture of Spaniel and early droving breeds. While no one knows for sure how long they’ve been around, some experts say English sheepdogs have been tending herds since the Romans landed in Britain. Their keen intelligence and adaptability has made them a top choice for narcotics and bomb detection, not to mention guiding the blind and assisting the handicapped.
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The post Putting the Fun into Fundraising by Rachel Phelps appeared first on Dogster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren't considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Dogster.com.
The Dachshund is one of the 10 most popular dog breeds, according to the American Kennel Club, but sometimes they are not the best fit for a person’s lifestyle. This is where Dachshund Rescue NW in Spokane, Washington, comes in.
Dachshund: A half-a-dog high and a dog-and-a-half long. – H. L. Mencken
This group was founded in 1991 when creator Margo Mossburg saw that most of the hunting dogs were being euthanized by local animal control. Says Margo, “Folks do not realize that Dachshunds are the smallest hunting breed, bred to hunt badgers and wolverines underground so they can also hunt cats, birds, chickens and pocket pets. Many Dachshunds are sweet but still retain hunting and guard dog instincts and are not good fits for all homes.” Today, this completely volunteer-based rescue has over 100 volunteers, who have rescued over 2,500 dogs.
Who says being a rescue can’t be fun? While Margo and her team work hard to find homes for their dogs, they also plan fun and innovative yearly events in the Spokane area. One of their most popular and anticipated events is the Wiener Dog races with the Spokane Chiefs hockey team.
Every November the dogs take over the ice. Thirty Dachshunds race against each other for the glory of taking home the trophy, which has a Dachshund on top! This is a great way for game attendees to learn about the breed while showing off their playful side.
Diving for Wieners
Every summer, Dachshund Rescue NW hosts Wiener pool parties, a type of open house, at its farm facility. Typically, the facility has over 3,000 visitors, from adopters to party attendees. The highlight of the event is the “diving for hot dogs.” Doggie pools are set up, and dogs must find the hot dog pieces that are floating in the water. With the Dachshunds’ great hunting skills, it doesn’t take long for them to find all the treats.
Finally, this Dachshund rescue knows how to party in style! The group hosts a Christmas Bash fundraiser at the local dog training club for which dogs and their owners arrive in festive attire and participate in dog races. The high point of the event is a howling contest for the loudest pup!
While the proceeds from these creative and innovative fundraising events allow Dachshund Rescue NW to rescue abandoned Dachshunds and find them loving homes, it also promotes the unique aspects of the breed in a fun way that has created a community of people passionate about the Dachshund.
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Researchers at the University of Helsinki and the Folkhalsan Research Center have discovered the cause for a rare type of deafness in Rottweilers called nonsyndromic early-onset hereditary canine hearing loss.
The study, published in May in the journal Human Genetics, identified a variant in the LOXHD1 gene that affects the function of the cilia of the cochlear sensory cells.
The finding is significant because it means that dogs used for breeding can now be tested for the defect so it isn’t passed on to future puppies. The discovery may also help researchers better understand hearing loss in humans.
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“Deck the halls with bones and holly, fa la la la la, la la la la!” No one wants to leave her doggie family member at home while attending holiday events. Now you don’t have to! This list of festive events has something for every dog, from the outdoorsy type to the pampered pup! What’s even better is that these fun activities, like a Christmas light trail, pet expos, cookie walks and holiday glamour photos, also support dogs and their local communities. So, pull out your ugly Christmas sweater, your dog’s reindeer ears, and head out to spread some holiday cheer!
Holiday Dog Photos in Owensboro, Kentucky
Every good dog owner needs to have the perfect holiday pet photo and SparKY (Saving Paws Animal Rescue of Kentucky) takes that up a notch with professional pet holiday portraits. Every December SparKY partners with national award-winning Dream Copy Photography to create overthe-top magical sets fit for a doggie supermodel. The best part, besides having the perfect photo for your social media, is that all proceeds go to help animals in need.
The Helen Woodward Center, in partnership with over 4,000 pet adoption agencies and Blue Buffalo Dog food, wants to encourage people to choose adoption this holiday season. Last year’s three-month-long event had over 1.3 million animals adopted. They hope to beat that number this year so even more animals are truly “home for the holidays” with their new families. Many participating rescue groups plan fun holiday adoption events in their city.
Who wouldn’t like eating a box of delicious homemade holiday cookies while supporting animals in need? Over 40 Talbot Humane volunteers bake dozens of their favorite, festive holiday cookies each year and donate them to raise funds for animals in need on Maryland’s eastern shore. Typically, tables were lined with boxes of the cookies, and shoppers were able create their own custom box with their favorites. However, due to COVID, now all cookies are pre-boxed and ready to pick up at the local farmer’s market.
This ultimate, pet-friendly expo is held annually in Novi just outside of Detroit, Michigan. The fun family event is a celebration of all furry, feathered and finned family members. The expo features over 30 pet rescues with a wide variety of adoptable pets from across the region. There are many vendors with booths stocked full of holiday gifts, so you have no excuse to not have something under the tree this year for your dog. Pet expo admission is also discounted with a donation of pet food and pet supplies that are given to area rescues.
Your pup might “Arrooo” and “Ahhh” right along with you at this spectacular display of colorful lights in a unique night-walking stroll. Rock City is transformed into a magical wonderland with 30 holiday scenes and over a million lights. Just make sure your dog is leashed and wellbehaved. Also, don’t forget to take your pup’s photos with Santa at the Christmas shops!
Dress up your furry family member in their best holiday attire and join this unique parade, which supports the San Antonio Botanical Garden. Start planning now for the costume contest because there will be stiff competition for the best overall holiday costume as well as the dog and owner matching costume. There are also pet vendors set up so you can buy any last-minute holiday gifts.
Who says dogs can’t have holiday fun south of the border? Shorty’s Rescue, a Pit Bull rescue located just south of San Diego, California, combines Mexican holiday traditions with helping their area. The town’s residents stop by their community pet store and pet food bank to drink Mexican hot chocolate and munch on holiday cookies. The kids also take a swing at the holiday piñata that’s full of dog treats for the adoptable Pit Bulls.
Even dogs want a weekend away! The Wilburton Resort has gone to the dogs with a special holiday slumber party. The weekend kicks off on Friday with a welcome party and a canine ugly sweater fashion parade. You can’t have a proper slumber party without snacks. At check-in, every pup receives Wagatha’s treats made in Manchester, Vermont. The weekend wraps up on Saturday evening with a fireside PJ party sing-along, or should we say, “howl along”?
It’s that time of year again to join the San Francisco SPCA for the 35th annual Holiday Windows event at Macy’s Union Square! Over the years this holiday tradition has helped more than 10,000 homeless animals find their forever families. In addition, donations are raised to support the SF SPCA’s yearround lifesaving work.
No matter what holiday event you choose, these top picks are sure to help you, your family and even your dog get in the holiday spirit!
NOTE: Due to the ever-changing state and local COVID requirements, please make sure to contact the host organization before hitting the road, or you may have a disappointed pup if the event is postponed or cancelled.
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The post 3 Games to Play to Help with Dogs Who Steal by Paul J. Kearney appeared first on Dogster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren't considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Dogster.com.
Is your dog a sock burglar and are you constantly waiting for him to pull his next big heist? Has your dog turned his post-crime caper into a game he plays with you, chasing him around the house trying to get him to let go of a stolen treasure, like the Keystone Cops?
It doesn’t have to be that way. There are games you can teach your thieving pup that are also preventable security measures in themselves, so these alternative behaviors become part of our lives together instead of caper after caper. Check out these three games.
Always trade up
Start a history of trading objects with your dog as soon as you can and maintain trading up with him for life. (However, don’t harass a dog while they are eating a meal or chewing on a safe object.) During play with an object is when we can safely introduce trading up.
First, figure out what your dog’s favorite toy is and then get a second identical toy to begin trading with him. Also, figure out what food items you can use to trade up for toys and different items your dog has in his mouth. Will a biscuit work? Will it be worth trading for a sock to your dog, or do you need a piece of meat to encourage the trade to happen? Ask yourself and figure out, “What is my dog’s motivation? What do I have to motivate my dog?”
Trading up is simple: When your dog has something in his mouth that is of value to him, get something of greater value and trade up for it. The next time your dog takes something like a sock, get something to trade up. Then, instead of chasing your dog, get his attention and show him what you have to trade. At the exact moment your dog drops the sock he has in his mouth to take what you are trading for it with, mark that with the verbal cue “Drop it” and reinforce that with what you are using to trade up with as a reward.
The great benefit to always trading up is predictable outcomes. I know many dogs that when they have something in their mouths will run away. I also know a greater amount of dogs that have always been traded one object for another that do not run away, and out of those dogs there are a handful of them that will get something in their mouth and go to where the cookie jar is.
Seven-month-old Cirneco Liberty Belle is the fastest shoe thief on the East Coast. But she does love turkey bacon and is willing to drop the shoe and trade up for that meaty goodness.
Take it/Drop it
First, if your dog has a favorite toy (a rope toy, a ball, whatever he enjoys) get two of them. To start, give your dog one ball and as he takes it in his mouth say, “Take it.” Next, present your dog with the second ball. As your dog lets go of the first ball in his mouth, at that very moment say “Drop it” and then hand him this second ball. When he takes the ball in his mouth say, “Take it.”
Repeat this as often as your dog is having fun trading one ball for another with you as you narrate the action with these two verbal cues. I have two rules with this game: The first is that we are always building a reinforcement history and the second is always having fun without frustration.
For some dogs, the first item may be of great value to them and they do not find motivation in taking an exact similar item in exchange from you. This is where you need to figure out what motivates your particular dog, meaning you have to raise the value of the item being traded for what is in his possession at the time. That means trying different types of values of food reinforcers/motivators (beef, chicken, fish and cheese, for example), so we understand what holds individual value to our dog.
Helpful hint: If you play fetch with your dog and he doesn’t drop the ball when he brings it back to you, use two balls and play the Drop it game mentioned above, but without the take it part, because it’s fetch.
Leave it
Leave it is not a threat. “Leave it” is a promise that if you do not touch it, you get something else instead. There is zero need for intimidation (yelling, threats, scare tactics or startle effects) to teach a dog not to snatch something. “Leave it” is not about panicking, it’s about protecting your dog from possibly ingesting something that could harm him.
I teach “Leave it” as an initial way of allowing my canine students to learn about naturally occurring disengagement and reinforcement. When a dog disengages from the target object (in or underneath my one hand), I hen reward with something from my other hand (normally from behind my back). We progress to where I can drop an object and quietly request a dog to “Leave it” and he anticipates the following reinforcer. This association helps dogs learn if they do not touch it, they get something else instead.
About reinforcement
You get what you reinforce. If a dog enjoys being chased, then chasing him reinforces that behavior. If the dog enjoys trading up, that reinforces that behavior. Reinforcement both drives and builds behavior.
Do not snatch things from dogs — this is not so much a rule but an ideology. If we never snatch anything from a dog, and we always trade up, the dog will never feel the need to avoid us when he has something that he shouldn’t. We will also have a history of trading up with our dog for objects, and our canine learner will associate this behavior with us instead of escaping from us after his next big heist. By doing this we will prevent stealing and running from ever happening at all, and our dogs may even anticipate trading up with us and reliably do so for life.
LEAVE IT VS DROP IT
“Leave it” is used to request a dog to not touch something and “Drop it” is to drop something they already have. These are two different things: one for not touching something and the other for dropping something they already have.
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After record pet adoptions seen in the U.S. during the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, animal shelters are filling back up again.
The increase in homeless pets is two-fold: a decrease in pet adoptions and an increase in animal intake numbers. According to Best Friends Animal Society and 24PetWatch, adoptions are down 3.7% overall in 2021.
Compared to 2020 numbers, animal intake was up 5.9% in the month of June, a time of year when shelters become overwhelmed with kittens.
Shelters also continue to suffer from pandemic-related challenges, including understaffing and logistical issues surrounding adoption events and public access to shelters.
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The post Top Dog Subscription Boxes by Mary Tan appeared first on Dogster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren't considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Dogster.com.
Who doesn’t love getting a package in the mail? It’s fun to anticipate a monthly surprise filled with fun for you and your dog. We found some of the best subscription boxes out there for loads of entertainment. Prices vary, but some have special deals for first-time subscribers or offer discounts for annual subscriptions.
Bark Box Bark Box features two innovative toys, two all-natural bags of treats and a chew that’s curated from each month’s themed collection.
Bark Box Super Chewer’s are for those dogs who need tough and sturdy enrichment. It includes two tough toys that are fluff-free, two customizable full bags of treats and two all-natural meaty chews.
Two bags of delicious handmade dog treats, one vegan skincare or dog clothing item and two tough dog toys are in every box! Boxes are available based on your canine’s weight and chewing type.
Each box is filled with two to three durable toys curated for your heavy chewer. You can customize the materials of the toys you receive on a monthly basis as well. You’ll get three treats in every box that are all natural, healthy and tie into the monthly theme. If your dog has severe food allergies, you can select a “toys only” option where the treats are replaced with two additional toys.
Online retailer Chewy has its own dog boxes. Each box is sold as an individual order, features limited-edition products and is themed for days such as birthdays, brunch or Halloween. The boxes include treats, toys and bandanas.
Every box contains an uplifting animal rescue story and “sensational lifestyle surprises” for dog moms and their fur babies. Relaxation surprises and selfcare for mom, treats for your pup and matching doggie-and-mom apparel for VIP members are all included. All members receive access to an online community, which features monthly workshops on self-care and information to help you learn more about your pet. Dog Mom Lifestyles supports shelters and rescues across the country.
Got a new puppy? This box is meant for you. Everything in your Pup Box is handpicked based on your puppy’s specific needs and includes five to seven products as well as a full training guide each month, based on your dog’s age. You’ll get items like treats, a variety of toys (plush, teething, rope, etc.), meaty chews and accessories for grooming and cleaning.
Pup Joy provides customized boxes and subscription options, plus says it sources some of the most healthy, sustainable products for your dog. Pup Joy also believes in supporting animal rescues and social causes. The boxes feature treats and chews as well as supplements, grooming supplies and toys.
Pooch Perks offers different levels of its monthly box. There’s a toys-only box or you can upgrade to toys, treats and accessories. The box is themed and the company also offer boxes for birthdays and puppies.
RescueBox is part of the The Animal Rescue Site, which is run by the national nonprofit Greater Good. The nonprofit’s mission is to improve the lives of people, pets and the planet. Each box sold benefits 142 shelter animals and contains five-plus products full of toys, treats and chews.
Every item you find in a VetPet Box is hand-selected and evaluated by veterinarians for quality and safety. You will receive at least two toys, treats, accessories and the same healthcare items (shampoos, supplements, etc.) that you would find at your vet’s office.
Starts at $35.00 per box (depending on dog size); vetpetbox.com
Just like dogs, the boxes come in an array of shapes and sizes. Finding a special monthly treat at your door step has never been more exciting!
A Human Box That Gives!
Know someone who loves dogs but doesn’t have one or is a foodie who loves dogs? Give back with a human gift that gives back to dogs.
Gratefull Box
This box has nothing for Fido, but every sale provides a 5-pound bag of dog food to animal welfare nonprofits throughout the country. The goodies for humans include six premium artisan-made food products and access to virtual cooking classes. It all comes packaged in a beautiful wooden box and a personalized note.
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The post Easy Ways to Stop the Bark by Victoria Stilwell appeared first on Dogster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren't considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Dogster.com.
Dogs communicate using a variety of vocal signals including howling, whining, growling, yelping and barking. While most of this language is easy for humans to understand, constant barking can make even the most informed of caregivers tear their hair out in frustration.
Dogs who bark excessively cause their families such distress that some resort to using equipment like anti-bark collars just to get some peace. While these devices might promise a quick-fix cure, they are highly aversive and generally cause dogs more distress, putting a Band-Aid on the problem without addressing the root cause. The good news is that barking can be modified without the use of aversive methods or equipment once the cause of the behavior is understood.
One bark doesn’t fit all
Research has shown that not only are all barks not the same, humans are reasonably wellattuned to what different barks mean. This seemingly innate understanding must be due to the bond people have shared with dogs for thousands of years. After all, some dogs were selectively bred to have loud voices once their usefulness as man’s first alarm system was recognized. This skill was harnessed and used to protect property and livestock as well as alerting hunters to a potential prey source.
If you live with a barker and are at the end of your tether with the constant noise, start investigating why your dog is barking, because you do not have to live like this. Dogs bark for many reasons, such as to get human attention, as a warning, in response to other barking dogs, when they are anxious or when excited, and it is important to identify what triggers the barking before teaching begins.
Barking for attention
If your dog barks to get attention, try not to reward her demands with your attention. Don’t be tempted to tell your dog off, because you might inadvertently be rewarding her for barking even if your response is a negative one.
In this case:
Ignore the barking.
Wait for five seconds of quiet and then reward your dog with attention for being quiet.
This way your dog learns that she gets nothing from you when she barks, but everything when she is quiet.
Ignoring behavior can negatively impact dogs, too, however. Make sure your dog is not demanding attention because she needs to tell you something really important, which you are then ignoring.
Excited barking
A dog who barks when she gets excited, like before being fed or going for a walk, is harder to work with because a person’s pre-feeding or pre-departure cues are usually highly ritualized. For example, if the barking happens as soon as you go for your dog’s leash to take her for a walk:
Drop the leash and go sit down.
Keep repeating this until your dog is quiet.
If you successfully attach the leash but she barks as soon as she gets outside, immediately come back inside.
This technique requires patience, but if you’re diligent, your dog will quickly learn that being quiet equals a walk.
If your dog barks excitedly in the backyard:
Take her back into the house and only allow her out again when she is quiet.
Keep repeating, if necessary, and never leave her in the backyard unattended.
Reactive barking
If she reacts and barks at other dogs or people inside or outside the home, it might be due to inadequate socialization, and she feels uncomfortable. In this case:
Your dog needs a program where she can learn to cope in a social situation. Start these programs with a certified positive and humane trainer well ahead of any family gatherings or holiday celebrations you might be planning.
It might be easier for your dog to spend time in a safe space behind a baby gate with some enrichment toys to play with than interact with people she does not feel comfortable with.
Separation barking
Dogs who suffer from anxiety when left alone will often bark excessively in the first 30 minutes after departure, while some will continue to bark until their person comes home. If your dog barks on separation you must get a trainer in to help, as separation anxiety can be a very difficult behavior to modify.
Alert barking
If your dog is barking, sometimes you might not see or hear the cause. Dogs tend to be sound sensitive and respond to noises they hear in the distance, including sounds that the human ear cannot hear. You might wonder why your dog suddenly wakes up from a deep sleep and starts barking seemingly at nothing, but she’s definitely heard something, even if you haven’t.
Barking alternatives
This brings me to my last point. As long as your dog has a clean bill of health from the veterinarian, one of the best remedies for dogs who bark excessively is to give them more outlets and opportunities for enrichment throughout the day, like walking or doing a discharging activity like chewing on a toy. Giving your barking dog these outlets goes a long way to having a peaceful, bark-free home.
Don’t Bark Back
When dogs BARK we tend to SHOUT back at them, but if we do the exact opposite and stay still and calm, it can have a profound affect. Dogs learn so much by watching people, and social learning can be very powerful.
This means that dogs learn by what people do, and in order to use the power of social learning to its fullest effect, it takes an awareness of one’s own body language. Yes, it can be frustrating not to “bark” back at a barking dog, but it really is up to you to find ways to modify the barking after you have identified the cause.
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The post Eyes on Peas in Grain-Free Diets by Jackie Brown appeared first on Dogster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren't considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Dogster.com.
In 2019, the FDA released a list of grain-free dog foods potentially linked to an increased risk of developing dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM).
To learn more about these diets’ ingredients, researchers from Tufts University conducted metabolomic profiling of nine of the diets on the FDA list that listed three or more pulses (legume seeds like peas and lentils), potatoes or sweet potatoes as main ingredients replacing grains.
In an article published in the journal Scientific Reports in August, the researchers identified peas as a leading suspect among the compounds analyzed. The article stressed that more research is needed to investigate the potential link.
The post Eyes on Peas in Grain-Free Diets by Jackie Brown appeared first on Dogster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren't considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Dogster.com.
The post Shih Tzu by dogedit appeared first on Dogster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren't considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Dogster.com.
Quick Facts
Weight: 9 – 16 pounds (4.08 – 7.26 kg)
Height: 10 – 11 inches (25.40 – 27.94 cm)
The Look of a Shih Tzu
Shih Tzu are covered in flowing long hair, including a tuft above the nose which provides its trademark “chrysanthemum” (i.e., floral) face. On a typical Shih Tzu, the rounded head has a long beard and moustache, a short muzzle and a black nose (except in reddish brown dogs which have a reddish-brown nose). Most Shih Tzu have round, dark, wide-set eyes with pendant (hanging) ears that are engulfed in hair. The frame is longer than tall, and the tail curls over the back. Shih Tzu can come in almost any color.
Shih Tzu are lively and energetic companions. Yet, they are also amazingly low-key and satisfied—assuming they get an adequate amount of attention. They like nothing better than to be held, stroked, petted and pampered by their owners, and are perfectly happy sitting on the couch with you for hours while you dote on them. This is a noble breed—sometimes translating into arrogance and haughtiness, other times into courageousness and politeness—but they are never too proud for a roll on the floor with a treasured squeaky toy.
A good family dog and highly interactive, Shih Tzu usually adapt well to adults and children alike. Not especially suspicious of strangers, they still make an alert and consistent watchdog, barking heartily when people approach the house.
Things You Should Know
As you can see by looking at one, Shih Tzus require more care than other breeds, especially when the hair is kept long. They need daily brushing and regular haircuts to avoid tangles. However, they shed very little dander, making them a great pet choice for people with allergies.
Though good family dogs, Shih Tzu are not especially good with very young children. They cannot be handled roughly or awkwardly and tend to get snappish when their patience wears thin.
Feeding note: Keep an eye on Shih Tzu while they are drinking. Because their noses are so centrally located, water can easily block their breathing.
A healthy Shih Tzu can live as long as 15 years. Common health issues include hip dysplasia, ear and kidney infections, and eye problems. Check their ears and eyes regularly for cleanliness. (You can even find special eye drops for them).
They are great apartment dwellers, but not happy in hot climates. And while they don’t require as much exercise as a Lab, a daily walk is necessary.
Shih Tzu History
The Shih Tzu is undoubtedly one of the world’s oldest dog breeds. Chinese paintings from the 6th century A.D. show Shi Tzu-like dogs, while documents from the period claim these pets were a gift to the Chinese court from the Byzantine Empire. Shih Tzu were house pets during the Ming Dynasty (1368 – 1644 A.D.) and since that time they’ve been highly prized and fiercely guarded by the Chinese. In 1908, they made their way to England, where they were bred and dispersed to Europe and Australia. The AKC certified the breed in 1969, and it has been a popular competitor and pal ever since.
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The post 10 Things You Need to Know About The National Dog Show by Melissa L. Kauffman appeared first on Dogster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren't considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Dogster.com.
We’ve all done it. Stuffed our faces on Thanksgiving Day and then sat around watching … no, not football, but the other American tradition — The National Dog Show. Here are 12 things about the The National Dog Show you should know.
The show is hosted by The Kennel Club of Philadelphia of Oaks/Valley Forge, PA, which is outside of Philadelphia. The organization began in the late 1800s and it and its predecessor clubs (it went through several name changes) have continually hosted dog sporting competitions since 1979, making it one of the oldest, if not the oldest, dog sporting competition host in America. It is presented by Purina.
It’s on television, broadcasted nationally on Thanksgiving Day by NBC Sports. It’s the most widely viewed dog competition because of the broadcast and the day. A total of more than 20 million viewers watch it, according to Nielsen ratings. It follows the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade from Noon to 2 p.m. in all time zones on NBC.
The show itself takes place over two days, featuring two “benched” shows at the Greater Philadelphia Expo Center at Oaks in Oaks, PA. This year it is expected to attract 15,000 people to the GPEC.
Today’s broadcasted The National Dog Show came about when the acclaimed comedy/parody movie Best In Show inspired NBC Sports programming chief Jon Miller. If you haven’t seen the movie, you definitely must. Best In Show came out in 2000, and it was written by comedy geniuses Christopher Guest (actor, director, writer, musician composer, who also co-wrote and starred in This Is Spinal Tap) and Eugene Levy (actor, writer, producer and most currently in the beloved Schitt’s Creek). Directed by Christopher Guest with an ensemble of brilliant comedy actors: Fred Willard, Jane Lynch, Catherine O’Hara, Eugene Levy, Jennifer Coolidge, Parker Posey, Will Sasso, John Michael Higgins, Michael McKean, Bob Balaban and many more. The movie is a behind-the-scenes mocumentary of the world of dog shows through the eyes of “ruthless dog owners.” Although the movie was based loosely off of the Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show, Christopher Guest called it the Mayflower competition and placed it in Philadelphia. After watching the movie in 2001, Jon Miller sold the idea of a two-hour special dog show sandwiched between the Macy’s Parade and football on Thanksgiving Day. Put together The Kennel Club of Philadelphia, with its rich history and tradition of dog shows, and NBC Sports and thus a star was born. It was and has stayed a ratings blockbuster.
The National Dog Show gives back. The event itself is surrounded by other events raising money for charity throughout what is called National Dog Show Month.
The winner gets the title of Best in Show, plus $20k worth of prize money is also awarded.
Every year, a new breed may be competing if it becomes certified for competition by the American Kennel Club (AKC). This year — 2001 — The Biewer Terrier (pronounced beaver) gets his/her shot at the title. The Biewer Terrier joins the Toy Group and is the AKC’s 197th recognized breed. According to the AKC, the breed was founded by Myrna Torres of California and Gayle Pruett of Alabama, who are both President and Vice President of the parent Biewer Terrier Club of America. In the past, the breed has been called a black and white Yorkshire Terrier or Biewer Terrier after German Werner and Gertrud Biewer, who first began producing tricolor Yorkies in the 1980s. However, Mars Veterinary geneticists studied the DNA of Biewer Terriers in 2007 and determined it was its own breed, with its dominant traits coming from Yorkies, Maltese and Havanese/Bichon Frise. Read more from the AKC here.
The TV broadcast is hosted by several dog lovers and experts:
The main host is dog lover, actor, Broadway musical star and writer John O’Hurley
The expert analyst is the well-known dog aficionado David Frei: former host of the Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show for 27 years, former Director of Communications for the WKC, current host of the Beverly Hills Dog Show and The National Dog Show.
Expert reporting is by esteemed sportscaster, dog enthusiast and 1977 French Open Mixed Doubles Champion Mary Carillo (along with John McEnroe). You’ve probably seen her during NBCs coverage of the Summer and Winter Olympics too.
This year — 2021 — is the 20th anniversary of the show and broadcast. So what can you expect? Exciting highlights from over the years with audience cutouts of all 19 previous Best In Show winners. Plus, a brand-new show will air on Peacock (NBCs streaming service that launched in 2020) called National Dog Show Junior. The Junior show is a fun, new way to watch The National Dog Show, with highlights of breed judging, Best In Show, features on the science of dogs, junior handlers, dog agility training and what makes dogs such great pets. It will be hosted by comedian, actor, TV host and doctor Matt Iseman, Olympic Gold and Silver Medalist and artistic gymnast Laurie Hernandez and teenage sports lover, writer, podcaster and reporter Anna Laible. It starts at 2 p.m. ET. It will also be available on demand.
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The post Aid for Acute Pancreatitis by Dr. Catherine Ashe appeared first on Dogster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren't considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Dogster.com.
The holidays are a wonderful time to spend with our furry friends. It can be tempting to not only share the love but to share the wonderful holiday food, too. But be warned! Veterinarians know this time of a year as a bad one for pancreatitis.
Acute pancreatitis is a common condition in all dogs, although some dog breeds, like the Miniature Schnauzer and Cocker Spaniel, are particularly prone. It occurs when the pancreas, the digestive organ that lies alongside the stomach and small intestine, becomes inflamed. This is a problem because the pancreas is filled with digestive enzymes that are inactive. When inflammation occurs, those enzymes become active and can start to digest the pancreas itself.
Acute pancreatitis can often, although not always, be traced back to an inciting cause such as eating rich, fatty foods like red meat or an incident of dietary indiscretion — for example when you turn your back on your turkey-loving dog, and he helps himself to a turkey carcass. In other cases, a cause may never be found.
Symptoms & Diagnosis
If these symptoms happen, it is best to seek a veterinary visit. The initial symptoms are usually lethargy and lack of appetite. That can progress to abdominal pain, bloating, vomiting and diarrhea. Fever may or may not occur.
After a physical examination, your veterinarian may recommend some diagnostics. Initial testing for suspected pancreatitis usually includes:
✤ a complete blood count
✤ a chemistry panel
✤ a “snap” pancreatitis test.
Also, X-rays may be done to rule out other causes, such as a foreign body ingestion.
Findings that can be consistent with pancreatitis include elevated lipase and/or amylase, an elevated white blood cell count and electrolyte abnormalities. These are not definitive for pancreatitis, however. Ultrasound has also been used to evaluate the pancreas, but it can be very difficult to accurately diagnose, even when done by a specialist.
Pancreatitis can be a tricky diagnosis, so it’s important to look at the diagnostics, as well as the clinical signs, breed, age and history of the patient. In most cases, pancreatitis is heavily suspected but not completely confirmed. Treatment is generally similar to that for severe gastroenteric disease, so it can be started without a confirmed diagnosis.
If your dog is not severely ill, the veterinarian may start with outpatient treatment. This could include subcutaneous fluids, a bland diet — usually chicken and rice based — anti-emetics like Cerenia, antidiarrheals such as a probiotic, pain medications and close monitoring.
Antibiotics were once a mainstay of therapy, but it was discovered that, in dogs, pancreatitis is usually an inflammatory but NOT infectious condition. As a result, to preserve antibiotics, they aren’t used frequently anymore. If symptoms do not rapidly improve, your veterinarian should be more aggressive.
If your pup is already very ill, hospitalization is required. During hospitalization for pancreatitis, you can expect that your dog will receive IV fluids and IV medications to control nausea, vomiting and pain, as well as possibly antibiotics. Your dog could be in the ICU for 1 to 5 days (or even longer), depending on severity. Your veterinarian may recommend transfer to a specialty or emergency hospital for more advanced care.
Take Your Dog to the Veterinarian Stat
In some cases, this illness can turn fatal quickly. This is called necrotizing pancreatitis, in which the pancreas is rapidly destroyed by its own digestive enzymes. This can progress in a matter of hours, so it is critical to have your dog checked out ASAP if you suspect pancreatitis. In cases of necrotizing disease, hospitalization can be prolonged. Your dog may develop blood clotting abnormalities, abdominal effusion (fluid collecting internally), heart arrhythmias and/or sepsis.
Recovery from pancreatitis depends on the severity and inciting cause. Some dogs develop long-term changes in the pancreas (chronic pancreatitis), while others fully recover. In some cases, a dietary change to a low-fat food is recommended, as well as daily probiotics to maintain gut health.
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Give thanks to your pup by attending November’s list of tail-wagging 2021 dog events and holidays. Don’t worry, if you don’t see your dog event on the list, just email Dogster at dogstermag@belvoir.com to include November 2021 dog events.
The NY Dog Film Festival is a medley of two hours of short films – animated, documentary and narrative films – from around the world. These entertaining and inspirational movies celebrate all the ways we love our dogs. Take in this and other dog events at 3Below Theaters & Cafe at 288 South 2nd Street. More at dogfilmfestival.com.
The Richmond will be hosting this dog event in person at The Jefferson Hotel while also making virtual ticketing options available for supporters who prefer to celebrate from home. Money raised through the Fur Ball supports the Cinderella Fund, the pool of resources that helps to cover the cost of the medical treatment and rehabilitation of the thousands of dogs, cats, kittens and puppies the Richmond SPCA takes into its care each year. Check out the online auction and dog events’ details here.
The K9 Shop presents Celebrity Pet Nutritionist Billy Hoekman for an evening dog event of pet nutrition discussion at 6:30 pm at The K9 Shop, 939 Broadway, Massapequa, New York. Billy Hoekman, Vice President of Nutrition and Communication for Green Juju, will host this live in-person event for pet parents that want to know more about pet nutrition. He will address many topics that a lot of pet parents just don’t know about like pet food regulations, breaking down what is allowed by the AFFCO, what pet parents need to understand about feeding raw or home cooked pet food and so much more. Billy will dispel myths and misinformation about pet nutrition, which is so often in the headlines today – which can lead to a lot of confusion for the average pet parent. For more information about The K9 Shop go www.theK9Shop.comor call (516) 400-3729. To register for the event click here.
The NY Dog Film Festival is a medley of two hours of short films – animated, documentary and narrative films – from around the world. This dog event of entertaining and inspirational movies celebrate all the ways we love our dogs. Show starts at Noon at the Angelika Film Center & Cafe at Mosaic in Fairfax, VA; the Angelika Carmel Mntn in San Diego, CA and the Angelika Pop-Up in Washington, DC. More at dogfilmfestival.com.
The NY Dog Film Festival two-hour program travels through the year to towns across the U.S. and Canada. A portion of ticket sales benefits a local dog rescue.
The NY Dog Film Festival is a medley of two hours of short films – animated, documentary and narrative films – from around the world. These entertaining and inspirational movies celebrate all the ways we love our dogs. This dog event starts at 7 pm at the Spectrum 8 Theatres in Albany, NY; Midtown Art Cinema in Atlanta, GA; Shattuck 10 in Berkeley, CA; Bethesda Row at Bethesda, Washington, DC; Kendall Square9 at Cambridge, MA; Century Centre 7 at Chicago, IL, Mayan 3 at Denver, CO; Keystone Art Cinema at Indianapolis, IN; The Landmark in Los Angeles, CA; Downer 2 in Milwaukee, WI; Lagoon 5 in Minneapolis, MN; Ritz 5 in Philadelphia, Pa; Hillcrest 5 in San Diego, CA; Plaza Frontenac in Sain Louis, MO; and Shoreline Crest 4 in Shoreline, WA. More at dogfilmfestival.com.
2021s The National Dog Show is the 20th annual show!
The date of the National Dog Show is Saturday, November 20 at the Expo Center in Oaks, PA. The big National Dog Show weekend featuring two “benched” shows is Saturday and Sunday, November 20-21 at the GPEC. Thus, the show is expected to attract some 15,000 people to the GPEC and is surrounded by several ancillary events that raise money for charity and galvanize the communities that support man’s best friend. More at nds.nationaldogshow.com.
There will be plenty to do and see at this free, dog-friendly event at the NTC Park in Liberty Station, San Diego, CA. Enjoy music, good food, vet tips, pet products and services, speakers, contests, prizes and more!. Details at doggiestreetfestival.org.
Thanks to the great work of the Kennel Club of Philadelphia and NBC, fans are guaranteed to see The National Dog Show comfortably on their televisions and laptops from 12 noon – 2 p.m. on Thanksgiving Day. The NBC two-hour special is a holiday tradition attracting a total audience of over 20 million each November. This year, there will also be The National Dog Show Junior with kid-focused content streaming on Peacock at 2pm EST. More information here.
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