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The Hungarian Komondor

September 29, 2008 By Leave a Comment

The Komondor was originally brought to Hungary by nomads to guard their sheep and is still used for that purpose today.  The earliest account of this breed is from the 16th century. The dog is said to be related to some Russian breeds and is a descendent of Tibetan dogs.

The Komondor is still used to protect flocks in his native country. The dog lives outdoors for most of his life and his genetic evolution of physical characteristics has presented the heavy coat for his protection. The Komondor is used as a guard dog in the United States. These dogs are wonderful watchdogs but can require very specialized environment for their optimum growth and enjoyment. tmb komondor The Hungarian Komondor

The Komondor is a very large dog with an amazingly beautiful white coat that hangs majestically to the ground in cords. The dog makes an impressive show dog because of its size and the magnificent physical features.

The corded white coat acts as camouflage for the dog when he is acting as a guardian for the unprotected sheep in his care. The coat also protects him from the claws and teeth of attackers. The world took notice of this breed around 1920 when it was first presented in dog shows.

Characteristics of the Komondor include a huge frame and imposing strength. The Komondor can weigh up to 125 lbs and have a height of up to 27 inches. The females of this breed weigh on an average of 70-85 lbs.

This dog would not be appropriate for apartment living. Because of the size of this breed, the Komondor is more suitable for owners who have large backyards. Country living is preferred for this huge animal.

The C is beautiful and enjoys family life, but is not for the faint of heart. This breed requires specialized care for its coat and extensive training. This breed survives best in colder climates.

Puppy obedience classes are necessary for the Komondor. You will need to get this dog to learn to obey you before it weighs as much as you do. Puppy classes are also necessary for early socialization of this breed. These dogs tend to be overprotective if they aren’t properly socialized.

Like many other working dogs, the breed also tends to be very independent and early training helps create a partnership that your dog will respect.

Grooming this massive dog is a daily requirement, especially if you want to maintain the magnificence of the corded coat. Their hair must never be brushed or combed. The coat has to be divided into cords and trimmed. This dog needs a lot of bathing and the coat takes a long time to dry. It sheds very little, if at all.

Potential health problems of the Komondor can include hip dysplasia, bloat and skin problems.

The Komondor makes a good, loyal family pet. The ideal family will live in a colder climate with acreage. Owning a dog like the Komondor requires patience and some specialized skills to control the independent nature of the dog. Also, to maintain and groom the dog effectively requires some time.

When the right environment, family and dog are combined, a wonderful connection will take place. This dog will bring years of protection and companionship to its lucky family.

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Dalmations, the Firehouse Dog

June 11, 2008 By Leave a Comment

Dalmations, the Firehouse Dog

With the popularity of the Disney cartoons featuring Dalmations, it is no wonder that this breed is in demand. However, few Dalmations act like the dogs in these movies, although Dalmation puppies can certainly get into plenty of mischief, just as their cartoon counterparts can.

The Dalmation is a member of the American Kennel Club’s Non-Sporting group. These dogs first arrived in England during the 1700′s, where noblemen used them to guard their coaches. Dalmations were the ideal breed for this job, since they got along well with horses. In fact, Dalmations were so good with horses that they became popular with firemen, who used horse drawn fire wagons. By the time fire engines replaced the horse drawn wagons, Dalmations and fire stations were inseparable.

The Dalmation is a 45 to 65 pound dog that stands 19 to 24 inches in height. This dog is well muscled without being overly bulky or stocky. Its eyes can be brown, blue, or a combination of the two colors. The Dalmation’s long, graceful tail is extremely powerful. The sleek coat of this breed has a background of white that is covered with black or brown colored spots. As new born puppies, Dalmations have no spots. They are pure white until their spots begin to appear.

Dalmations are extremely high energy dogs and are prone to hyperactive behavior and separation anxiety. You will need to be prepared to take your dog jogging or for a run in the park to burn off energy, as he may not burn off enough energy walking in the yard by himself. If possible, give your Dalmation a job to do. Obviously, not everyone has a horse in the back yard, but you can always teach your dog to fetch the morning paper.

Inexperienced dog owners may not be able to handle this wonderful breed, as Dalmations have a tendency to be a bit hard headed. If you buy a Dalmation puppy, be prepared to attend puppy obedience classes. Also, socialize your puppy as frequently as possible, as Dalmations tend to be fearful around people they don’t know.

Since they are so active, Dalmations burn a lot of calories. You will need to feed your puppy a good puppy chow that has plenty of nutrition. Also, check with your veterinarian to see which vitamins and supplements you should give your dog. Also, ask about special diets that help reduce the chance of kidney or bladder stones, since this breed is prone to these problems. Dalmations are also prone to deafness, hip dysplasia and allergies.

Grooming a Dalmation is simple. Just brush your dog once a week to remove loose hair. If you don’t groom your dog, you will spend quite a lot of time cleaning up his hair, as Dalmations can be heavy shedders.

If you love the look of the Dalmation’s spotted coat and enjoy living an active lifestyle, then the Dalmation may just be the perfect breed for you.

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The German Shepherd

June 8, 2008 By Leave a Comment

german shepherd200 The German Shepherd

So You Want a German Shepherd

Ever since Rin Tin Tin became a famous television personality, the German Shepherd has gone from an already popular dog breed to one of the most well known breeds on earth. This versatile dog breed seems to be everywhere that a dog can be of help, from war torn countries to areas where natural disasters have occurred. The powerful German Shepherd will strike terror in the hearts of criminals one minute and endure the overly affectionate attention of little children the next.

German Shepherds were bred to be guardians and the breed still has a very strong protective instinct. A dog that is high strung or nervous should never be bred, as the resulting puppies can be untrustworthy. However, most German Shepherds are wonderful dogs and devoted to their families, including children and other pets.

The German Shepherd is a fairly large dog, weighing from sixty to seventy five pounds and standing twenty two to twenty six inches tall. This breed has erect ears, dark, intelligent eyes, and a graceful tail. The German Shepherd is most commonly black and tan, although gray and tan or black and gray dogs are also available. A striking all white dog, commonly called an Alsatian, is popular with many people. If you like the look of the Alsatian, be sure you meet the puppy’s parents, as these white German Shepherds can sometimes be a bit high strung.

Although German Shepherds are high energy animals, they can live in the city. Just be aware that you will have to exercise your dog frequently and that he will be miserable if you leave him alone for long hours without giving him a job to do. Of course, a house with a big yard in a rural area is ideal.

german shepherd pupwr The German Shepherd

Since your German Shepherd will rapidly grow into a big, powerful dog, you may want to enroll him in obedience classes while he is a puppy. It is much easier to control a small puppy than a full grown untrained dog. In addition, puppy obedience classes also help provide another important benefit for your German Shepherd puppy, socialization to other dogs and people. Many people who own these intelligent dogs make the unfortunate mistake of thinking that their dogs need to be trained as guard dogs. However, this training can lead to aggression if your dog is not trained properly. Since German Shepherds are naturally protective, they do not need attack dog training to guard your home.

The German Shepherd’s coat requires little grooming. The dense coat is coarse and does not mat easily. Brush your dog once a week to remove dirt and debris. If you live in the city, concrete will probably wear down your Shepherd’s nails. However, if your dog lives in a rural area he may need to have his nails trimmed several times a year.

German Shepherds need to eat a nutritional food that is formulated for large breed dogs. If your Shepherd is a working dog, you may need to feed him a high protein food. A good dog vitamin is also a smart idea.

This loyal, smart breed commonly suffers from hip dysplasia or epilepsy. To see one of these dignified dogs suffering from either disease is heart breaking. Please be sure that your puppy’s breeder has had the parents tested to be sure they do not carry these diseases.

If you want a dog who will be protective and loyal, then a German Shepherd may be the right dog for you and your family.

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The Lovable Pug

May 28, 2008 By Leave a Comment

blackpup The Lovable Pug

If you’ve seen Men In Black or Milo and Otis, you probably have fallen in love with the charming Pugs who acted in these movies. While the distinctive appearance of this breed may be the first thing that attracts people to the Pug, it is the Pug’s personality that wins the lifelong devotion of dog fanciers.

The American Kennel Club classifies the Pug as a member of the Toy Group. Pugs weigh in at fourteen to eighteen pounds. Their distinctive squashed face and curly tails gives them a slightly pig like appearance. Pugs come in silver, black, or beige colors with a black mask. They have broad chests and are very muscular despite their small size.

Pugs have a reputation for being so good natured that people can literally walk on them. However, don’t let this breed’s laid back attitude fool you. This dog will turn from a lover to a fighter in an instant if an intruder threatens his human. Pugs are wonderful with children and other pets. In fact, Pugs have been known to perform feats such as gently carrying an escaped parakeet to his owner without disturbing even a feather. However, Pugs are more likely to cause allergies than some other breeds. Pugs and children with allergy induced asthma are not a good combination.

Pugs are perfectly content to live in apartments or town homes. Although the Pug doesn’t require a lot of exercise, you should be sure he stays in shape to keep him healthy. A daily walk around the block should be enough exercise, but he will be happy to walk much further, as well. Just be sure that you use a harness on your Pug instead of a collar, as these dogs don’t need to develop problems with their windpipes, since they already have pushed in noses.

pug pup2 The Lovable Pug

While Pugs can learn obedience, these little guys aren’t the fastest learners. Your Pug may not learn to sit or heel as fast as other breeds. However, once he learns he will be extremely proud of himself. You may want to try attending puppy obedience classes with your Pug. If he just can’t grasp the commands, try again when he is a few months older.

Pugs love food. They are happy to eat whatever you give them and will learn undignified tricks if you reward them with treats. You should make every effort to limit your Pug’s food intake, since these dogs can suffer from knee problems, which grow worse if the dog is overweight. Pugs can also suffer from Demodectic mange and frequently receive eye injuries.

If you want a dog breed that does not need much grooming, a Pug is ideal. Just brush through your dog’s coat once a week to remove loose hair and dirt. You also should keep an eye on his face wrinkles to be sure the creases do not begin to smell or develop bacteria.

If you want a dog breed that is all heart and you don’t mind him snoring and snorting in your ear all night, then a Pug may be the perfect choice for you.

2pugs The Lovable Pug

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So You Want a Collie

May 23, 2008 By 3 Comments

collie300 So You Want a Collie

Almost every child wants to own Lassie, the wonder Collie. Unfortunately, if the child really expects one dog to be that incredible, a Collie puppy may be a bit of a disappointment. After all, in real life, Lassie is actually played by several hard working Collies.

The Collie was originally bred to herd sheep and still has a strong protective instinct, which makes the breed an excellent choice for a family dog. Of course, not every Collie is a highly intelligent, diligent protector. Some of these dogs are high strung and nervous, but most are wonderful with children. The American Kennel Club classifies the Collie as part of the Herding Group. These dogs weigh 55 to 80 pounds and stand 22 to 26 inches tall.

The Collie is strong and graceful and has plenty of endurance. This dog’s almond shaped eyes seem to sparkle with intelligence, whether they are brown or blue in color. The Collie’s prick ears give it an alert appearance. The Collie can be rough or smooth coated. The rough coat is longer and fuller than the smooth coat. This breed can come in sable and white, tricolor, or blue merle colors.

The Collie enjoys living in the midst of an active family. This breed is not a good choice for apartment living, since it loves to spend time outside. A home with a large yard is ideal for the Collie breed.

Although the Collie is friendly and outgoing, this dog is protective of its family and takes its duties as a watchdog seriously. Your Collie will bark at intruders, whether they are people, cats, squirrels, or pieces of trash blowing around the yard.

The Collie can be quite headstrong and can get into quite a lot of mischief as a puppy. You should consider attending puppy obedience classes with your Collie, since it is easier to train a small puppy who hasn’t developed bad habits than a sixty pound dog that has. Also, be sure to be firm with your puppy about staying on the floor if you do not want Collie hair on all of your furniture. Once you allow your dog on the furniture, he will feel that he has a right to be there any time you leave the room.

The Collie breed has very few health problems. Eye diseases and PRA are the most common problems these dogs face. In fact, you are much more likely to take your puppy to the veterinarian because he has injured himself while jumping from a moving vehicle or exploring his surroundings than you will for a health problem.

Collies are quite happy to pack away plenty of food. These dogs have a tendency to overeat, so it is best to give them three small meals a day. If your Collie develops a bulge around his middle, talk to your veterinarian about switching to a food that promotes weight loss.

Although a rough coated Collie has long hair, the Collie does not need extensive grooming. Brush through your dog’s coat several times a week to avoid mats, paying close attention to the hair around his face, behind his ears, and around his legs.

The Collie is an intelligent family dog. If you want a dog who will protect your family and will play with the kids, the Collie may just be the perfect pet for you.

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Is a Chow Chow the Breed for You?

May 22, 2008 By Leave a Comment

chow chow300 Is a Chow Chow the Breed for You?

Normally, a blue tongued dog would be a cause for concern. However, when that blue tongue belongs to your Chow Chow, it is completely normal. Chow Chows have a black tongue with a distinctive bluish tint.

The Chow Chow originated in China, where it was used as a hunting dog. Asian sailors brought these dogs with them to England, where their exotic appearance quickly made them popular. This breed is classified by the American Kennel Club as a member of the Non-Sporting group.

The Chow Chow is a 45 to 70 pound dog that stands 17 to 20 inches high. Its down turned lips can give this breed a deceptively angry appearance. This unfriendly impression is offset by the tail curling over the dog’s back and its thick double coat. The red Chow Chow is most common, but these furry dogs also can have black, blue, cinnamon, or cream colored coats.

Chow Chows are not high energy dogs, but they do need a bit more exercise than an apartment provides. A small fenced yard is adequate for this breed. If you do live in an apartment, be prepared to take your Chow Chow for a daily run. However, do not allow him to run loose in the park, as Chows are prone to aggressiveness toward other dogs.

While Chow Chows are devoted to their families and usually love children, they do not often do well with other pets. New owners should concentrate on socializing their puppies to be sure they do not grow up to be dangerous or aggressive to strangers. Puppy obedience classes are a good way to socialize your puppy while being sure it receives thorough obedience training.

Besides their tendency to be aloof and unfriendly to people outside the family, these dogs do have a few other drawbacks. They have a tendency to dominate people if they can get away with it and they can bully inexperienced dog owners. You will have to be firm with your dog and should always be sure to follow through on commands.

chow Is a Chow Chow the Breed for You?

Since they are not extremely active dogs, Chows do not eat a lot. You should feed your dog a nutritious puppy food while he is young and a good adult dog food when he grows older. While they are easy to feed, they do require quite a lot of grooming. Their thick coats are hard to brush because they are so dense.

While they are big dogs, Chow Chows should not spend too much time outside during the summer, since their thick coats do not protect Chows from heat sensitivity. These dogs also can suffer from hip dysplasia and often have problems with their knee joints. They also have a high tendency for entropion or the rolling in of the eyelids.

If you don’t mind that Chow Chows have a bit of an attitude problem when they are dealing with strangers or other animals, then this might just be the right breed for you. After all, there is nothing quite like hugging one of these fuzzy, bear like dogs on a chilly winter night.

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So You Want a Bichon Frise

May 18, 2008 By Leave a Comment

bichon Frise300 So You Want a Bichon Frise

If you suffer from allergies, but want to have a dog, you may want to take a look at the Bichon Frise. This charming little dog’s sole function is to provide companionship and it does its job extremely well.

The Bichon Frise is classified as a part of the Non-Sporting Group by the American Kennel Club. The Bichon is a seven to thirteen pound dog that stands only nine to eleven inches tall. These fluffy little dogs are known for their thick white coats and alert, cheerful eyes. The Bichon’s tail is carried proudly over its back.

Bichons are a perfect choice for a family dog, as long as the children are old enough to know how to handle a dog without hurting it. Although your Bichon may tolerate rough treatment, he can easily be injured. These dogs get along well with older children, as well as dogs and other pets.

Since the Bichon Frise loves to spend time with people, this breed is quite content with life in apartments or town homes. Of course, your dog won’t object to a home with a fenced yard. If you don’t have a fenced yard, you should be prepared to take your dog for a daily stroll around the block so he stays healthy and strong.

Although Bichon Frises are small dogs and do not have stubborn tendencies, it is still a good idea to teach your puppy some basic obedience commands. If your Bichon ever runs out the front door and heads for the street, you will want to be sure that you can call him back to your side. Of course, you can teach him a few simple commands yourself, but puppy obedience classes can make training easier. In addition, these classes are a good way for you to teach your puppy socialization skills. Of course, once you begin obedience classes, your little guy’s aptitude for obedience may just convince you to keep on learning. These dogs have a reputation for being incredibly intelligent. In fact, Bichons often perform as highly trained circus dogs.

Bichon Frises are not expensive to feed. Since small dogs often have dental problems, you may want to make sure that you use a dry food diet. If you decide to feed your puppy soft food, be sure you brush his teeth frequently.

The one drawback of the Bichon Frise breed is that these dogs need extensive grooming. You will need to brush out your Bichon’s fluffy coat frequently or he will look like a ratty mop head instead of a beautiful, elegant little dog. You will also need to have his coat cut and shaped at least once a month. If you can’t groom your dog yourself, this can become a major expense.

The good news is that Bichon Frises are a very healthy breed. This breed actually has no common health problems.

If you want a sweet and affectionate pet who doesn’t cause you to break out in hives, then a Bichon Frise may just be the perfect dog breed for you and your family.

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