Basset Hound
Interesting Fact: Basset Hounds were bred to hunt rabbits by scent and their sense of smell is second only to the Bloodhound.
Interesting Fact: The origin of the breed’s name is uncertain. Possibilities include derivation from the French begueule (“open throat”), from the Old English, Welsh or French beag (“small”); or the French beugler (“to bellow”).
Read MoreAustralian Shepherd aka Aussie
Interesting Fact: These pups did not actually originate in Australia but in the U.S.
Personality: The Aussie is highly intelligent, mild mannered, and easily sync up with their people. They are not big barkers or heavy shedders. Especially devoted and protective, the greatest need for this gifted dog is exercise, and they excel in agility and search and rescue.
Spotlight on...The Labrador Retriever
Trademark: Labs were originally used as fishing dogs for the villagers of Newfoundland and developed webbed paws for swimming and two distinct layers of hair - inner short, fuzzy hair for insulation, and longer guard hair for water shedding. The modern breed is still very much a water dog and is one of the most popular dogs in the US. Spotlight on . . . The Chihuahua
Trademark: Chihuahuas are the smallest breed of dog
Personality: Despite their size, Chihuahuas are not just an accessory. They need walks and will challenge big dogs. They are curious and courageous, with personality plus! They need consistent training, but will always be your best friend. One issue Chihuahuas may have in family settings is they tend to be preferential of one person and can display jealous behavior toward friends or other family members. This can be averted if they are treated like a dog and not given too many privileges. They can be hyper but mostly want a lot of love time with their humans.
Choosing a breeder & the right pet for your family
What makes a breeder? Certainly there is a misconception today that having a dog capable of whelping puppies or, ahem, “donating to the cause,” makes a breeder. Rarely will you meet two people who agree on what makes a good breeder — even good breeders may disagree. But when choosing a breeder for a purebred dog, you should be well prepared. Here are a few important questions to ask:
- Are the parents AKC championed? How old are they? Are they on site and can you meet them? If so, pay attention to temperament. Know what you’re looking for physically to determine if the dog looks healthy and well bred. Take someone “in the know” with you, if need be.
- Did the breeder have breed-specific preventative medical analyses done as recommended by the AKC? What is the health history behind the dam and sire? Is a health guarantee offered?
- Is the breeder selling puppies online? (This can be a big red flag.)
- What is the breeder feeding? At what age will the puppies go to their new homes?
- Will the puppies go home de-wormed and vaccinated? Have they been vet-checked?
- Does the breeder have references from a veterinarian or other reputable breeders?
Part II in a series - Health and Nutrition
Photo (c) Kennedy Morgan, 2010Last month we talked about some goofy, beloved, famous Danes — Marmaduke, Astro and Scooby Doo. This month we’ll dive into more serious matters — wellness and disease.
Pet lovers know how easy it is to fall in love with those uber cute puppies in the window, and I’m equally guilty of perusing pet ads and wanting one of everything. The lesson to be learned here is to approach pet guardianship with our minds ahead of our hearts. My hope is that after reading this, you’ll have more “tools in your toolkit” when it’s time for your next addition. The more knowledge and insight you have, the less you’ll be at risk of heartache, disappointment, and unexpected financial hits.
Part I in a series
“Where’s her saddle?”
“Can I ride it?”
“I bet she eats a LOT!”
These are things Great Dane owners hear on an almost daily basis when out and about with their dogs. Sure, Great Danes aren’t ordinary dogs. They aren’t pocket pooches. They aren’t typical; in fact, they are extraordinary. But, like many extraordinary things, special care and consideration goes into selecting, caring for, training, and living with one.
This article launches a three-part series focusing much on Great Danes, but also giving exploring the the realities around proper breeding practices, how a pet parent finds the right breeder, and how modern pop culture and media can affect our four-legged friends.