Choosing a puppy that's right for you can be a tricky decision. Once you're ready to buy a puppy, now you have to decide big or small, long hair or short hair, bouncy or quiet ... the list goes on!The variety of puppy breeds available can be overwhelming and it's hard to know where to start or what you should look for. But instead of focusing on the breeds, why not first ask yourself 'What sort of person am I?'Are you a quiet, sedentary person...more
The primary health obstacle in English Bulldog ownership is their sensitivity to heat. Even a short stay in a car or a long walk on a hot day can give them heat stroke. Every dog uses panting as a cooling system, but this is more difficult for dogs like the English Bulldog that have stout muzzles and an underbite. Breathing is already laborious on this type of bulldog because of other problems of the breed, like the all-too-common pinched or...more
One of the biggest benefits to owning an American Bulldog is that they are not a demanding breed to groom and do not shed very much. Their fur is short and coarse, and thus they don't require very frequent brushing, though most dogs do enjoy being brushed just for the sensation of it.If you are lucky enough to have your American Bulldog during puppyhood, this is the ideal time to begin grooming. They are an energetic and muscular breed, and being used to the grooming process will make it a lot easier down the road when they are full-grown and may not want to sit still in a tub full of water!Even though their coats are not demanding, American Bulldogs still need to be brushed every so often. A soft-bristled brush is the best option, so that their skin doesn't get nicked and the experience is enjoyable, even relaxing, for your dog. Brushes with metal teeth may be too harsh for your bulldog because their coats are so close to the skin. Test the brush out on yourself before using it on your pet to determine whether or not it might hurt. If your bulldog acts like he is irritated or in pain from the brushing, try a softer brush. There are brushing gloves available that can help this...more
Though Beagles today are known primarily as great family pets and lovable lap dogs (even if they're far too big for you lap), they were bred for another purpose entirely. This is not uncommon; many breeds were initially developed to help in one line of work or another, but have since been bred into the wonderful companions we know and love...more
As far as breed popularity goes, Golden Retrievers are near the top of the list. Because the breed is intelligent and very eager to please, they are one of the most trainable breeds of dog in existence. Golden Retrievers, besides being wonderful family pets and doting companion animals, are employed in a variety of uses as seeing eye dogs, therapy...more
Boston Terriers are an adorable little breed loved by many. The experienced Boston Terrier owner is aware of the process called "inspiratory paroxysmal respiration" - or, in layman's terms, reverse sneezing. However, when a first time Boston Terrier owner first sees this process, they may panic. The process of the reverse sneeze is not a pleasant one to watch; it can easily look like the dog is in pain or suffering, but there is no actual harm being done.If you are owning or purchasing a Boston Terrier for the first time and are curious about reverse sneezes, you have probably at least heard of the behavior, if not witnessed it in another dog. While it can be quite scary to witness, it really is a harmless process of the dog's body trying to rid itself of toxins or debris, much like a normal sneeze. Bouts of reverse sneezing typically last anywhere from 30 seconds to a couple minutes. The dog will stick out his head, extending his neck as much as possible, and breathe in and out rapidly and loudly. It sort of seems like the dog is hyperventilating, but that is not what's happening. Veterinarians have not determined what actually initiates a reverse sneeze, but it is assumed that...more
Traditionally bred for baiting and attacking bulls, the English Bulldog has gotten a bad reputation as an all-around aggressive dog. Nothing could be further from the truth! This breed of dog is actually very friendly, sociable, and intelligent....more
If you live in the United States, you can probably picture a Cocker Spaniel in your head: a smaller dog with long, shiny fur, dangling ears with wavy hair, and big brown eyes. However, there is an English Cocker Spaniel that does not adhere to this...more
Dachshund's coats come in a variety of colors and lengths, with the long-haired Dachshund requiring the most intensive grooming process. This is not to say that one should be put off from owning a long-haired Dachshund, only that it requires a little...more
Pomeranians can be a difficult breed when it comes to grooming. If your pup is a little too feisty to sit still for regular grooming sessions, a few biscuits or a dab of peanut butter can calm him or her down and help reinforce that grooming can be a...more
Flea drops or topical flea treatments are highly reliable methods of flea control. They also have a fantastic safety record. But to get the full benefits your topical cat flea treatment must be used correctly.To ensure you benefit from all the flea...more
Owning a pet, whether it is a bird, a cat, a dog or even a gold fish can be a rewarding and exciting experience. Pets can bring you much love and joy and they can be great company for you, and also a great learning curve for children learning to take...more