http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/Training.asp Articles about Training en-us Wed, 23 Jan 2008 15:30:03 EST Wed, 23 Jan 2008 15:30:03 EST dogs@terrificpets.com Sun, 20 Jan 2008 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102465.asp Deciding to bring home a dog or a puppy is a big step in most individual's lives, and is not one that should be made on the spur of the moment. A dog is a living animal, that has both physical and emotional needs, just the same as any other type of pet. Dogs, through selective breeding, have become excellent companions, ideal for families, individuals and even for homes with small children. Understanding the complete commitment to having a dog as a pet will help you in deciding exactly what type of dog you will need, or even if a dog is the best type of pet for you and your family. There are four main areas to consider when deciding if you are prepared to make the necessary commitment to owning a dog. These areas include the emotional commitment you must make, the environmental space and areas you must provide, the training and socialization activities necessary to own a well behaved and well adjusted dog, as well as the dog experience you may or may not have. In order to understand the various aspects of these commitments, it is important to consider them one at a time. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102465.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102465.asp> Wed, 5 Sep 2007 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/1021265.asp Crate training your Yorkshire terrier is neither punishment nor cruel. The crates provides the Yorkies with a safe place to retreat to and curl up, adjust to new surroundings, sleep, a place to escape confusion, and gives the dog a sense of security when left home alone. To many Yorkies, a crate is their own indoor house. For a Yorkie owner, confining their puppy to a crate is a great housetraining aid that gives them peace of mind when sleeping or away. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/1021265.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/1021265.asp> Mon, 17 Sep 2007 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/1021565.asp Affenpinschers are much loved for their entertaining personalities but, like many of the toy breeds, they can be difficult to housebreak. Finding the right balance of showing these little dogs what is expected of them and what is not allowed can be a difficult task for first time dog owners. Because housebreaking and interacting with other people and animals are the two things that are most challenging for Affenpinschers, we're going to take a look at a few tips for helping these little monkey dogs get settled in your home. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/1021565.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/1021565.asp> Mon, 17 Sep 2007 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/1021765.asp Have you ever considered the idea of entering your Affenpinscher in competition, but the idea of having a "perfect" pet or having impeccable grooming techniques makes the idea overwhelming? Why not try agility competition? This sport is a great option for energetic Affenpinschers and is a great way for owners and their pets to exercise together and have fun while they're at it! In this article, we'll take a look at what agility competition is and why it might be a good idea for you and your Affenpinscher. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/1021765.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/1021765.asp> Mon, 17 Sep 2007 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/1022365.asp If you're looking for a fun, interactive way to exercise and compete with your Affenpinscher, obedience competition might be something for you to look into. For a long time, it was thought that Affenpinschers were not suitable for obedience competition because of their trademark stubbornness, but Affenpinschers are entering more and more in obedience and finding some success. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/1022365.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/1022365.asp> Mon, 17 Sep 2007 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/1022465.asp Socialization is extremely important for Yorkshire terrier puppies as with any breed of dog. Socialization is part of training, teaching, and familiarizing the puppy by acquainting them to new environments or experiences and should continue up to at least age two. This includes interacting with other animals, family members, gentle and calm children, and strangers on an ongoing and steady basis. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/1022465.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/1022465.asp> Mon, 17 Sep 2007 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/1022565.asp Since Affenpinschers are classed as toy dogs, you might be wondering how these tiny bundles of fur can be thought of as aggressive. Like many breeds that are small in size, Affenpinschers think they are bigger than they are and are fearless. They won't think twice about launching themselves at anything they perceive to be a threat, whether it's a stranger in the home or a Great Dane. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/1022565.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/1022565.asp> Mon, 17 Sep 2007 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/1022965.asp Every Yorkie owner knows that they're pet will bark occasionally such as someone coming to the door or at an unusual noise. This is to be expected but when your dog starts excessive barking, that is another story. Whether it is a tiny Yorkshire terrier or a huge Great Dane, excessive barking is annoying and disruptive. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/1022965.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/1022965.asp> Mon, 17 Sep 2007 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/1023165.asp The Afghan hound is known for many things including an attractive appearance, strength and speed and having an incredibly stubborn disposition. It's this last trait that can make housebreaking this breed such a challenge. Here are a few tips to help make it a little easier: http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/1023165.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/1023165.asp> Mon, 17 Sep 2007 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/1023265.asp Traveling with your Yorkie can be a fun and enjoyable experience for you and your family. Many people nowadays prefer to take their dog along on family vacations or when they travel instead of putting them in a kennel or having someone pet sit them. Health and safety should be the first priority when planning a trip with your Yorkie. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/1023265.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/1023265.asp> Mon, 17 Sep 2007 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/1023465.asp Afghan hounds are independent thinkers and generally don't care if their actions please you or not. Of course there are exceptions, but this is the general nature of the breed. They are also known for their emotional sensitivity which makes discipline a tricky business. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/1023465.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/1023465.asp> Mon, 17 Sep 2007 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/1023665.asp The appearance and attitude of the Afghan hound can easily lead you to believe that they are very high maintenance dogs. Their long, shiny coats and the aloof manner in which they carry themselves can be almost intimidating to some. Before you make the decision to add an Afghan hound to your family you should consider the amount of work that will be involved. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/1023665.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/1023665.asp> Mon, 17 Sep 2007 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/1023765.asp Many Yorkshire terriers are happy to eat anything placed in a bowl in front of them while others start that way but gradually become discriminating nibblers and finicky eaters. If your Yorkie suddenly goes from being a good eater to a very finicky eater, it could be a sign that your Yorkie is ill so be sure to have your veterinarian examine him to rule out medical problems. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/1023765.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/1023765.asp> Mon, 17 Sep 2007 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/1024365.asp In addition to its other roles of working dog, playmate, hunting dog and watchdog, the Airedale Terrier also makes a great show dog. They have come a long way since the days when they were bred just to hunt otters. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/1024365.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/1024365.asp> Mon, 17 Sep 2007 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/1024465.asp Wheaten Terriers are active dogs with lots of energy, so it's up to owners to train their pets with discipline and love to keep them under control. It is best to begin when a Wheaten is a puppy or it will be more difficult later on. Since Wheatens are fairly intelligent, they can learn to behave easier than some other breeds. First of all, take a firm but loving hold of your pet so he knows you are the boss. Repeat this for about half an hour each day. In the beginning, your puppy will try to struggle free, but just hold on until he settles down. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/1024465.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/1024465.asp> Mon, 17 Sep 2007 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/1025565.asp Believe it or not, most show dogs are not purebred animals. In fact, show dogs are judged on many other characteristics, such as presentation, quality of their coat, a proper gait, attention to instructions and much more. Nevertheless, the Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier must display the most pleasing characteristics of its bread, such as a soft, silk-like and wavy wheat-colored coat with perhaps some darker colorings on its ears or muzzle. The animal must carry itself as a proud member of its breed, which should be easy for any well cared for, groomed and healthy Wheaten. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/1025565.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/1025565.asp> Mon, 17 Sep 2007 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/1025665.asp Training a dog is a very important part of dog ownership. Too many owners get a dog, give him just the basics, and are surprised later in life when they start having problems with the dog. When a dog gets older, he is more set in his ways and will be more difficult to train when he's been allowed to behave in a certain way for so long. When the dog is confused and stubborn, the owner gets upset with the dog. A dog is only as good as his owner allows him to be. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/1025665.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/1025665.asp> Mon, 17 Sep 2007 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/1025765.asp An Airedale Terrier is a very versatile animal. They can serve many purposes in life. They are a watchdog, a companion dog, a show dog, a hunting dog or they can be all of these things. When you decide to get an Airedale Terrier, you know what you have in mind for this dog and what you can do with him or her. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/1025765.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/1025765.asp> Mon, 17 Sep 2007 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/1027465.asp Everyone is saying that your pet Akita could win any dog show competition just by the way it looks, and you are thinking, "Well, why not?" http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/1027465.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/1027465.asp> Mon, 17 Sep 2007 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/1027565.asp Training an Akita entails a lot of patience and hard work, but the pay-off can be great. Akitas can become possessive, territorial and even destructive when not properly trained. It is an intelligent breed of dog which is usually known to be docile and non-aggressive. These traits can be achieved through proper training, early lessons in socialization and a lot of mental stimulation. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/1027565.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/1027565.asp> Mon, 17 Sep 2007 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/1027765.asp Alapaha Blue Blood Bulldogs are quite rare; not everyone agrees on a number, but some reports indicate that there are presently less than two hundred Alapaha Blue Blood Bulldogs in the world. That being said, there is enough information on these rare dogs to piece together some important facts about the personality of the breed. While there are some disagreements about its history or its standard, everyone agrees that these dogs have remarkable temperaments. Often described as protective, one interesting facet of its temperament stands out: its ability to pause and reflect before acting. This lends credence to the idea that Alapaha Blue Blood Bulldogs are not just guard dogs, but thinking guard dogs. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/1027765.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/1027765.asp> Mon, 17 Sep 2007 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/1028165.asp Alapaha Blue Blood Bulldogs are well loved for their docile temperaments, their energy and agility and their devotion to their families, but the one characteristic that that stands out and makes them prized by their owners is their natural guarding and protecting instincts. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/1028165.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/1028165.asp> Mon, 17 Sep 2007 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/1028365.asp Those that have families with small children or are planning to start a family in the future that are considering adopting a dog should always be concerned as to whether the dog they have in mind will be suitable in a household with kids. Some breeds are certainly less suitable than others, but fanciers of Alapaha Blue Blood Bulldogs tend to agree that these dogs make wonderful companions for children and adults alike. However, just because a breed is known as being kid friendly doesn't mean that new owners won't have a little work cut out for them to make sure both dog and children play safely together. In this article, we'll take a look at Alapaha Blue Blood Bulldogs with children and what you can do to ensure that your dog and your children will be comfortable with each other. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/1028365.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/1028365.asp> Mon, 17 Sep 2007 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/1029265.asp Shelties are one of the best choices in family pets. They are sweet and gentle dogs with a lively personality and a great sense of fun. They are also one of the most intelligent dog breeds, ranked number 6 in intelligence by the American Kennel Association. But, like all breeds, shelties have some particular personality traits that must be managed during training if you're to make your sheltie the perfect family pet. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/1029265.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/1029265.asp> Mon, 17 Sep 2007 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/1029965.asp Purebred shelties make excellent show dogs. They are intelligent and beautiful and usually enjoy the experience of being in the show ring. If you're interested in turning your sheltie into a show dog, here are some tips to get you started. Your dog must be registered - In order to compete in AKC competition, your dog must be registered with the AKC. Both his sire and his dam must be registered and his litter must be registered. It is your breeder's responsibility to register the litter; you will need to register your own puppy. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/1029965.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/1029965.asp> Mon, 17 Sep 2007 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10210465.asp The Scottish Terrier, like most similar breeds, can pose some interesting challenges when it comes to training. This is because dogs of this type were usually bred for work, and often that work needed to be carried out away from human supervision. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10210465.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10210465.asp> Tue, 18 Sep 2007 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10212465.asp How we choose our pets reflects the kind of person we are. These pets are often extensions of our personality and figuring out what kind of a dog you want as a pet may be tantamount to the kind of person you are. How does one figure out if one is cut out to take care of an American bulldog? Does a bulldog fit the kind of person you are? http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10212465.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10212465.asp> Tue, 18 Sep 2007 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10212665.asp There are many terms that can be used to describe the temperament of the Pekingese dog, but the one that most often comes to mind is stubborn. The Pekingese is also a very jealous dog and often this jealousy shows in the form of aggression. They may get very aggressive towards other dogs in their house or even in the neighborhood if they're nearby. Whereas most dogs can be socialized into getting along with other dogs, the Pekingese is a hard and stubborn dog to budge. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10212665.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10212665.asp> Tue, 18 Sep 2007 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10213065.asp Getting a new dog or puppy is a very exciting and fun experience for anyone lucky enough to own a dog. It entails a lot of responsibility and housebreaking is probably the least fun of these responsibilities. Many people think that housebreaking a Pekingese is easy because they are little dogs. They believe little dogs make little messes. While that part may be a fact, another fact is that the Pekingese, like many small dogs, are often more difficult to housebreak. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10213065.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10213065.asp> Tue, 18 Sep 2007 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10213265.asp An American bulldog can be a very obedient and loyal pet if you know how to train it properly. These dogs are pretty well known for their loyalty and have been raised previously as dogs that are supposed to protect property. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10213265.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10213265.asp> Tue, 18 Sep 2007 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10213365.asp When choosing a family pet, there are many choices from which to pick. While many people like large dogs for protection, many people are still choosing small breeds such as the Pekingese or "The Peke". The Pekingese is a small breed of dog in the toy family. It is important to realize and remember that even though they are small in size, they are every bit as much of a dog as a large dog - in some ways more. They are a loving and affectionate dog that loves to be cuddled and given lots of attention. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10213365.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10213365.asp> Tue, 18 Sep 2007 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10214165.asp The American Bulldog is leaner, taller and less wrinkled than the English bulldog. This breed of dog is so powerful that it is often entered in very physically demanding sports like weight-pulling or carting. The wonderful thing about the American Bulldog, though, is that all the brawn hides a soft spot. This dog is happy and outgoing. It likes to be in the company of friends: human companions, other dogs, and even other animals. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10214165.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10214165.asp> Tue, 18 Sep 2007 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10214265.asp Cousin to the English foxhound, American foxhounds are scent hounds that have a very melodious bark and like to bay. Originally used as hunting dogs, they have great stamina but tend to bark a lot while hunting, which is a characteristic, bred in them. Although they are not normally what is called a nuisance barker, because of the American foxhounds deep, loud voice, it carries great distances. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10214265.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10214265.asp> Tue, 18 Sep 2007 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10215065.asp American foxhounds are very loving, affectionate, energetic family dogs that get along well with children, strangers, and other canine pets but should not be trusted with animals, such as cats, unless you socialize and train them properly. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10215065.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10215065.asp> Tue, 18 Sep 2007 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10215265.asp Dogs have always been able to track their prey and for centuries man has used dogs to his benefit and often for survival. Tracking events are a way to show your American foxhounds power at recognizing and following the disturbed vegetation scent or scent trail left by another animal or person. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10215265.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10215265.asp> Tue, 18 Sep 2007 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10216965.asp The American Eskimo is an adorable breed, especially as a pup. All too often, individuals or families get swept up in the fantasy of raising an Eskie only to find their expectations were not based on fact or reality. This can be frustrating for the dog owner but even sadder for the Eskie who senses his or her owner's discontent. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10216965.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10216965.asp> Tue, 18 Sep 2007 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10217465.asp The Australian Kelpie is known for being extremely intelligent. This is a dog that has the ability to independently solve complex problems and think things through. The Kelpie is an animal that has the ability to work unsupervised and to use his own initiative. The Kelpie seems to like to think for himself and understand the things that need to be accomplished. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10217465.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10217465.asp> Tue, 18 Sep 2007 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10218865.asp The Australian Kelpie will communicate with you through its voice. They begin doing this as puppies. Understanding the different sounds of this vocalization will promote a harmony and bond between you and your dog. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10218865.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10218865.asp> Tue, 18 Sep 2007 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10219465.asp The Australian terrier is a bright, inquisitive, intelligent self-confident small dog that learns very quickly but often prefers to make up and follow his own rules or ideas. Although they love to please their owners, these terriers do not respond well to severe or harsh training methods or corrections. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10219465.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10219465.asp> Tue, 18 Sep 2007 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10222165.asp When the Australian Cattle Dog was developed in the mid 1800's, it is doubtful that any thought was given towards the breed someday winning Best of Show. The standard for the Australian Cattle Dog was not truly set forth until 1903. Since then, minor adjustments have been made to the standard over time. It took until 1980 for the breed to be fully recognized and eligible for competitions in the American Kennel Club and other organizations. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10222165.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10222165.asp> Tue, 18 Sep 2007 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10222365.asp There are many who would like to have a dog but are turned off by their dependence or the thought of pet odors and allergies. While there are a number of breeds that can offer less in the way of neediness or smells, the Basenji is a breed that offers these and a number of other benefits all in one package. This is because their bloodline is more African wild dog than anything else. Those who have never been able to call themselves dog people often appreciate the Basenji's independent mindset and lack of doglike odor. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10222365.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10222365.asp> Tue, 18 Sep 2007 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10222465.asp Independence and a strong will are the common traits of a Basenji; however, they are not characteristics that can or even should be trained out of their personality. Being descendants of wild African dogs gives them unique qualities that are bred so deep there is no chance for changing them any more than there is chance for changing their eye color. These traits come from a long history of hunting and survival instinct. This does not mean there is no room for obedience training; however, those who assume they can simply dominate four thousand years worth of hardwiring may want to reconsider. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10222465.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10222465.asp> Tue, 18 Sep 2007 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10222565.asp The intelligent Basenji needs proper mental stimulation just as much as it needs consistent physical activity. A bored or penned up Basenji will most likely turn to destructive behaviors to communicate its frustration. Many dogs have the urge to chew, roam and challenge themselves with fun games. The Basenji is a dog breed more closely related physically and mentally to the wolf, jackal and other wild dogs. Though thoroughly domesticated, they are a breed that needs an owner that can efficiently work with their natural instincts rather than try to curb them. As many come to find, choosing a Basenji means choosing an active lifestyle. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10222565.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10222565.asp> Wed, 19 Sep 2007 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10225365.asp Bichon Frises are white, small, fluffy energetic dogs with a curly coat a plumed tail carried over their back. These fun, intelligent, playful dogs do best in homes where someone is around most of the time. Although this breed normally requires moderate exercise, some Bichon Frises are just naturally very high energy. All dogs need basic obedience training but a high-energy dog, Bichon Frise included, requires more advanced obedience training so you have control over your pet. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10225365.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10225365.asp> Wed, 19 Sep 2007 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10225465.asp Teaching a dog tricks should be done at an early age when they are still pretty receptive to learning. While the old adage that says "You can't teach an old dog new tricks" is in no way true, you can do better if you do teach your Maltese tricks while they are fairly young. Teaching a young Maltese certain dog tricks is said to be pretty easy since this dog breed is said to be one of the more obedient breeds around. How your dog responds to commands and training may still have to be dependent on your dog's attitude and receptiveness to commands. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10225465.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10225465.asp> Wed, 19 Sep 2007 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10226565.asp Every Bichon Frise owner loves their pet, finds it completely adorable and believes it would make a wonderful show dog. Unfortunately, that is not all that is required. In order for you to show a Bichon Frise, your dog must meet the standards set by the American Kennel Club. If you find that your dog meets most of the AKC standards, there are reputable handlers that can evaluate your dog and let you know if it has show possibilities. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10226565.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10226565.asp> Wed, 19 Sep 2007 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10227065.asp Owning a Black Russian Terrier brings with it some opportunity for showing. The breed is fully recognized by the American Kennel Club. It was first recognized as a breed in 1981 by the USSR Ministry of Agriculture on May 13th of that year. It was internationally recognized by the FCI in 1984. In the United States, the Black Russian Terrier was first cataloged by Foundation Stock Services in 1996. Afterwards, it was first accepted to be shown in the miscellaneous class in August 2001. The breed gained full recognition in the working group on July 1, 2004. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10227065.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10227065.asp> Wed, 19 Sep 2007 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10227365.asp Having a Maltese puppy in your home could be a great source of pride and joy for you and while these dogs are a pretty hardy small breed, there a few precautions you may need to undertake to keep your Maltese puppy safe, happy and healthy. A Maltese pup is often sold to their new owners after 12 weeks and these new owners are often unsure of what they need to do to keep their pups healthy and to have them grow normally. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10227365.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10227365.asp> Wed, 19 Sep 2007 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10227665.asp Lassie, watch out! You may have met your match. When searching for a dog with the ability, the intelligence and the determination for training - for recreation, for show or for sport - the Black Russian Terrier rivals any breed for ease and fun. This is especially true if the owners are as willing as the dog will be. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10227665.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10227665.asp> Wed, 19 Sep 2007 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10229065.asp Because of their long history as working hunting dogs, Border Terriers still retain much of their hunting instincts. While they have found success in present day agility and obedience trials, they really excel in Earthdog trials. As a matter of fact, more Border Terriers have won American Kennel Club Earthdog trials than any other breed. If you're looking for a way to get involved in competition and exercise with your Border Terrier, Earthdog trials are a great option. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10229065.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10229065.asp> Wed, 19 Sep 2007 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10229965.asp Border Terriers are well loved for their energy, intelligence and even their touch of a clownish streak. But, like many terriers, Border Terriers are independent and have a tendency to run towards dominant personalities. Without the proper training, they can be stubborn, quick to chase, and not afraid to initiate a fight with any other creature that rubs him the wrong way. In order to ensure that our Border Terrier doesn't become the head of your household, proper training and plenty of exercise will be key to showing him who is in charge. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10229965.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10229965.asp> Wed, 19 Sep 2007 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10230065.asp The Irish Setter is a very enthusiastic and affection breed that is eager to form bonds with human owners and do anything in its power to please them. At the same time, they exhibit a very individualistic personality and once they have established certain habits, it can be hard to change them. As such, it's important to begin training your Irish Setter from a very young age, and to take the proper approach when doing so. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10230065.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10230065.asp> Wed, 19 Sep 2007 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10230165.asp Border Terriers enjoy a long history as working dogs going back at least two hundred years. They were originally developed by the Robson family in the middle of the 19th century to hunt fox, rabbit, and other small animals around the border between England and Scotland, which is how they earned their name. While Border Terriers are not the most popular hunting dog in the world, they certainly are still used to hunting both in North America and in England. In this article, we'll take a look at training and where hunting is available in the United States. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10230165.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10230165.asp> Wed, 19 Sep 2007 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10230465.asp Border Terriers are energetic, playful, clever dogs that are devoted to their favorite person or families. Like many terriers, they tend to have dominant personalities, but this attitude can be trained out with early obedience training. These active little dogs excel in most dog sporting events, including Agility, Obedience, Flyball and Earthdog trials. They respond well to positive reinforcement training and are famous for their love of food, so food treats are an excellent way to reinforce good behavior. Perhaps not the best choice for the youngest of children, Border Terriers are nevertheless excellent companions for families if trained properly. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10230465.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10230465.asp> Wed, 19 Sep 2007 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10231565.asp Every dog has his or her own temperament. Part of it is in their genetics, but a large part of it is in the training the dog receives from the time they are young puppies. The Bouvier des Flandres is a dog with a great temperament, but they can be dominant in their household or they can be calm, submissive and gentle. The training they receive from a young age will help to steer them in the right direction towards becoming the perfect family dog. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10231565.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10231565.asp> Wed, 19 Sep 2007 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10231865.asp The Bouvier des Flandres is a very attractive dog with many wonderful qualities. In addition to being loyal, intelligent and good-natured, they have an excellent reputation as a working dog that has served many people in need. While these qualities make the Bouvier des Flandres sound like the perfect dog, he may not be the perfect dog for you. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10231865.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10231865.asp> Wed, 19 Sep 2007 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10232765.asp Basic obedience training is a must for any dog owner. Starting this training at a young age helps to establish lines of communication early so that there is no confusion between what an owner expects and what a dog provides. Many owners forget that the commands they communicate must first be processed through the mind of a dog before being carried out. A lack of patience, understanding and consistency is often what leads to frustration, not only in the owner but for the dog also. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10232765.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10232765.asp> Wed, 19 Sep 2007 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10232965.asp The Brittany is a breed of dog that will need much in the way of both physical activity and mental stimulation throughout most of its life. Otherwise, as with all dogs who become bored, destructive behaviors are likely to follow. The young Brittany pup can be somewhat impulsive, prone to whimpering and submissive urination. As the rule goes, a tired pup is a good pup. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10232965.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10232965.asp> Wed, 19 Sep 2007 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10233865.asp The Great Dane, although a large dog breed, is a great house dog. Though they may tend to be active, a few minutes or so of regular exercise daily is all that it needs to be able to maintain its figure. The Great Dane in general is very bonded to humans. However, if left untrained, they can be aggressive and dominant to other humans and other dogs. One of the most important aspects of keeping a dog is being able to train it. First and foremost, obedience training is a must. Though your Great Dane is a people-dog, those that are not trained can knock down kids, put their feet on the dining table, drink water from sinks, and exhibit other negative traits. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10233865.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10233865.asp> Wed, 19 Sep 2007 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10234265.asp As wonderful as dogs are, most dogs will exhibit some sort of aggression at one time or another in their life. For the bullmastiff, animal aggression is a problem that has many owners running straight to their local dog trainers. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10234265.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10234265.asp> Wed, 19 Sep 2007 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10235165.asp The Bullmastiff is a dog that can be described in many ways, especially when describing their temperament. They are a very good-natured dog that loves being around people. They do tend to be stubborn and willful, which is why they need an owner that is capable of being firm. Believe it or not, not every owner has that ability. Some owners love their dog to a fault and are incapable of being firm, which is only harming the dog in the end. A well-disciplined dog is a happy dog. The Bullmastiff is one such dog that needs to be well disciplined. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10235165.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10235165.asp> Wed, 19 Sep 2007 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10236665.asp German shepherds have been successfully trained in many different sports and activities due to their intelligence and endurance, as well as the fact they are very adaptable to training. One such training program is known as Schutzhund. Schutzhund is a German word meaning "protection dog", and was developed in Germany in the 1900s as a way to test the German shepherd dog to see if they possessed the traits they were originally bred for such as the strong desire to work, courage, intelligence, obedience, strong bond to the handler, perseverance and protective instinct. Schutzhund training is a way for trainers to determine if the dog still has what it takes. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10236665.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10236665.asp> Wed, 19 Sep 2007 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10236765.asp Bull Terriers are ideal pets, even if they are not meant for a first-time dog-owner. Being full of energy and playfulness, it is imperative that it be trained to live with people and other household pets. Neglect to train your Bull Terrier, or any dog for that matter, will give you many headaches, especially as the puppy grows and becomes more difficult to manage in terms of size. Here are some of the basics you need to know to train your Bull Terrier effectively. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10236765.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10236765.asp> Wed, 19 Sep 2007 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10237765.asp Bull Terriers are definitely a bundle of energy, so they are not the perfect pet for first time owners or for those who do not have enough time to spend interacting with their dogs. For those who like to shower their pets with attention and love playing around with them, the Bull Terrier's mannerly, frolicsome, happy and pleasant temperament is ideal. As Bull Terriers are happiest with people around, this breed might not take kindly to owners who are always absent, but they may adapt themselves well if the household is supportive and highly interactive when there are people around. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10237765.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10237765.asp> Wed, 19 Sep 2007 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10238365.asp The bulldog is probably the one dog that people are mistaken about more than any other. From their history of being bred and used for bull baiting - where they would attack and drag a bull - they've had the reputation for being mean and aggressive, but in fact nothing could be further from the truth. The British bulldog is a wonderful and gentle dog that makes a great family pet. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10238365.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10238365.asp> Wed, 19 Sep 2007 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10239065.asp The British Bulldog has for many years had the reputation for being an aggressive dog, often making people fear the dog. This goes back to their days of being used for chasing and attacking cows and bulls for their owners. They had the task of grabbing them by the legs and making sure they were brought home. In addition, they were trained to pen them in the corner so they couldn't move. Their job was also to bait the bulls, grab them by the nose and pin them to the ground. Although this was later considered cruel and inhumane, this is how the dog got their name. This led to people believing the dog was not only aggressive but mean as well. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10239065.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10239065.asp> Wed, 19 Sep 2007 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10241465.asp The Dogue de Bordeaux also referred to as a French Mastiff has gained popularity and respect as a well trained police dog. The history of the breed refers to the dog as a bodyguard, watchdog and a tracker of bear, bulls and other animals. Because of the nature of the dog, it makes an excellent police dog. The training is similar to other breeds except the Dogue de Bordeaux is so large, extra measures are taken in training. In order for this breed to train for police work, they need to have proper puppy training. Understanding and learning the basic dog commands and obedience training is important. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10241465.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10241465.asp> Wed, 19 Sep 2007 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10241565.asp The Dogue de Bordeaux is a beautiful and loving dog, but they need to have training as a puppy. Because the breed is so large, a puppy that is not started in a training program as early as six weeks old can become an uncontrollable adult. Your puppy needs to learn housebreaking, manners, socialization and obedience. A dog of this statute needs training so the owner or handler has complete control of the dog. The first two areas to work with are respect training and housebreaking. After you have this training and the Dogue de Bordeaux understands your commands, goes outdoors to the bathroom and has manners, you are on to the obedience training. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10241565.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10241565.asp> Thu, 20 Sep 2007 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10242565.asp Getting a dog is a responsibility that involves many changes in your life as well as work and dedication. Before you decide to get a dog, be sure that you are willing to make the commitment required for this life long investment. One important factor to keep in mind is suitable living for your dog. If you are one of the lucky people about to get a Chesapeake Bay retriever, there are some important factors you need to consider. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10242565.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10242565.asp> Thu, 20 Sep 2007 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10242865.asp The Chesapeake Bay retriever is known for its sunny and cheerful disposition - much like their cousin, the Labrador retriever. When they are swimming with the family or out retrieving game, their face almost has the appearance of a smile. They have what is referred to as a "quiet sense" about them, meaning they may be very quiet as far as making noise and barking, but they are always paying attention to what is going on and watching over the family. They are used by many hunters not only as a hunting dog but also a wonderful life-long companion. They make a wonderful companion for children with their quiet and loyal personality. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10242865.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10242865.asp> Thu, 20 Sep 2007 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10242965.asp Training a dog is probably the most time consuming yet rewarding thing you will do with your dog. Each dog is different and what works for one dog won't necessarily work for another. Most of the training techniques are similar for all dogs, but there may be some variations depending on the dog. Dogs, like humans, each have their own personality and must be treated as such. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10242965.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10242965.asp> Thu, 20 Sep 2007 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10243365.asp Here are some useful and interesting ways to enjoy your Chow Chow pet: http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10243365.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10243365.asp> Thu, 20 Sep 2007 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10243965.asp It has been said that the Chow Chow will die for his master but not readily obey him; walk with him but not trot meekly to heel; honor him but not fawn on his friends and relations. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10243965.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10243965.asp> Thu, 20 Sep 2007 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10245565.asp Collies are one of the best breeds of dog for family pets. But, they do require training, including training on when it is and isn't appropriate to bark. Collies are barking dogs by nature, as this is part of their herding instinct, and if not trained appropriately, they can be prone to excessive barking. But, there are ways to teach your collie to bark only when it's appropriate, especially if you begin training early on. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10245565.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10245565.asp> Thu, 20 Sep 2007 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10249565.asp There is a lot more to think about when getting a dog than just getting him or her a bowl to eat out of and some food to go in it. The Kooikerhondje breed of dog is no exception. Kooikerhondjes, puppies especially, need to be toilet trained, house trained, and, depending on their age and the environment they came from, trained not to bite. Let's take a look at how some of this can be accomplished. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10249565.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10249565.asp> Thu, 20 Sep 2007 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10250965.asp There are a few things that an owner should be aware of before he or she purchases a purebred Akbash puppy. For starters, the owner should know the breed's tendencies for aggression and how to curb these problems. The owner should be aware or and look out for any food-related issues the dog may have; food aggression is quite common in Akbash dogs, and the behavior should be dealt with accordingly. Dominance aggression is also a big issue for Akbash dogs, and the owner should watch for signs of this and immediately correct any related behaviors to prevent the furthering of the behavior and eventual canine dominance. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10250965.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10250965.asp> Thu, 20 Sep 2007 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10253065.asp An Alaskan malamute is intelligent, yet stubborn, which explains why it has a tendency to disobey orders. If you are planning to own an Alaskan malamute, you may expect that training this breed of dog can be quite a challenge. While it is very adept at learning new things, it may or may not repeat what it has learned after some time because it tends to get tired of repetitions easily. The Alaskan malamute prefers new methods of training from time to time, and the owner has to constantly come up with new ideas to get it interested. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10253065.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10253065.asp> Thu, 20 Sep 2007 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10253165.asp The first training session for hunting starts as a puppy. This includes the basic commands for retrieving, recall, stay, sit and up. These commands are necessary for a good hunting dog. The English Cocker Spaniel is a natural bird dog. Without the proper commands, the safety of the hunter and the dog could be compromised. The training should be done on a daily basis until the puppy is fully aware of what they are to do for every command. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10253165.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10253165.asp> Thu, 20 Sep 2007 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10253265.asp The Alaskan malamute is considered the oldest breed of sled dog. It is a strong and courageous dog with phenomenal endurance, and it has served as a freighting dog for many years. Today, it is one of the favorite breeds among dog owners, and it is widely recognized around the world. Some of the major associations that recognize the Alaskan malamute are the FCI, AKC, UKC, KCGB, CKC, NKC, NZKC, CKC, APRI, ACR and others. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10253265.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10253265.asp> Thu, 20 Sep 2007 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10253465.asp English Cocker Spaniel puppies have minds of their own. They are warm, loving and cuddly, but also can be destructive and unmanageable without proper training. Housetraining the puppy is not always as easy as one would think. The number one issue with housetraining is the over excited puppy. The puppies and older English Cocker Spaniels get so excited when they see you or company that arrives that they will often urinate a little. This is common and some steps can be taken to prevent the accidental urination. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10253465.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10253465.asp> Thu, 20 Sep 2007 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10253965.asp As a puppy, the English Cocker Spaniel will go through hours of training to learn the basic commands and they will train for hunting. Puppies that are subjected to gunshots or other loud noises at a young age may become skittish around loud noises. When this happens, training the puppy for hunting is difficult. It may even become impossible to correct the gun shyness, as the puppy grows older. Proper care of the puppy before and during training is essential. Following guidelines for training the puppy for hunting is vital to them not becoming scared and anxious around guns. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10253965.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10253965.asp> Thu, 20 Sep 2007 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10255165.asp Most often when people first get their Australian shepherd they are not sure as to what to do with them or how to train them. However, there are many different ways of training your dog; you have to find what is best for you and your Australian shepherd. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10255165.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10255165.asp> Thu, 20 Sep 2007 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10255365.asp All dogs have their desirable aspects and their less desirable aspects. Basset hounds can make wonderful pets but can present many challenges too. Some of their less appealing characteristics have to do with stubbornness, noise, shedding, gassiness, and chronic health problems. Let's take a look at some of these challenges a little more closely. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10255365.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10255365.asp> Thu, 20 Sep 2007 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10255865.asp Basset hounds can make wonderful companions. However, they are stubborn, strong-willed and can be difficult at times. Some specific areas of life in which you need to establish some dominance, or at least a plan of attack, are when it comes to food, house training, and their masterful escapes. This article will try to explain and give helpful hints to give you a leg up on your shirt legged competition. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10255865.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10255865.asp> Thu, 20 Sep 2007 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10257765.asp Respect is the key to any healthy and successful relationship between a dog and his owner. Unfortunately, this is also the most often overlooked part of the relationship. Often, the owner wants so much for the dog to love him, he lets the dog take over the leadership role in the relationship and soon the owner is unknowingly bowing to the dog's every whim. This is a serious problem and it needs to be addressed sooner in the relationship rather than later. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10257765.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10257765.asp> Thu, 20 Sep 2007 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10258165.asp The Canaan Dog is still a relatively rare breed of dog in the world, especially in some circles. Those that are familiar with the Canaan know what a great family dog, companion, pet and multi-functional dog they can be. Many have heard stories about the Canaan Dog being aggressive, if not as a puppy then when they are adult dogs. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10258165.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10258165.asp> Thu, 20 Sep 2007 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10258665.asp The Canaan dog is a very intelligent, sensitive and independent dog. This dog got its origin in Israel and has through the years gained popularity in many other countries including the United States. The Canaan dog is a very versatile dog that excels in many sports and events such as herding, conformation, agility, obedience and tracking. The Canaan is a very strong and independent dog that has a high tolerance rate for certain things and a low tolerance for others. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10258665.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10258665.asp> Thu, 20 Sep 2007 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10258765.asp The Clumber Spaniel is a very interesting dog in that it provides a range of qualities that many families are seeking including friendliness and obedience. Yet, these qualities often have to be taught to the animal from the start. Understand this breed and you will have an easy time of training him to obey you. Most importantly, realize that the best method to get them to obey is through respect and reward training, rather than punishment or abandonment. Clumber Spaniel pups are more than willing to learn from you, if you have a steady hand and the time to devote to the process. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10258765.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10258765.asp> Thu, 20 Sep 2007 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10259365.asp When you get a new dog in your life, whether it's for you or the entire family, you will want it to become yours and accustomed to your way of living. The first step towards accomplishing that goal is to begin training the dog, whether it's a puppy or an adult dog. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10259365.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10259365.asp> Fri, 21 Sep 2007 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10260665.asp For people that love Cesky terriers, enjoy being around other Cesky terriers and owners of this wonderful breed, Cesky terrier dog shows and competitions are fun events to watch and an enjoyable, rewarding experience if you choose to compete. Cesky terrier dog events, trials, shows, and competitions are a great way to spend time and be active with your pet. They are rewarding, fun and offered both in the United States and internationally. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10260665.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10260665.asp> Fri, 21 Sep 2007 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10260865.asp Since the Cesky Terrier has such an outstanding personality and temperament and gets along well with kids and other dogs they are an ideal breed for a family that loves to take their pet with them. Unlike many of the terrier breeds the Cesky does not have as high of a prey instinct and is not as prone to chasing or running when off-leash once they are fully obedience trained. This means that the Cesky is a very versatile dog that can enjoy a huge range of activities. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10260865.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10260865.asp> Thu, 20 Sep 2007 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10261065.asp The Earthdog Trials are noncompetitive venues for Cesky terriers, small terriers, and Dachshunds. The Earthdog tests offer breeders and dog owners a standardized gauge that assesses their Cesky terriers and other dogs trained and natural working and hunting abilities, by exposing the dogs to a specific hunting situation. If you are interested in getting your Cesky terrier started in Earthdog tests, get a book of regulations from the American Kennel Club. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10261065.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10261065.asp> Fri, 21 Sep 2007 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10261565.asp Bringing a brand new Chihuahua home is a time of great excitement. After the joy wears off, however, the work needs to start. Just like any other dog, Chihuahuas require training to really fit well into a home environment. Housebreaking One of the first problems to overcome as with any new pup is to housebreak your new pet. You will not want your Chihuahua to have accidents all over the house. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10261565.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10261565.asp> Fri, 21 Sep 2007 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10263365.asp The Pembroke Welsh Corgi is considered a working dog, and is more so a driving dog instead of a herding dog. Their lineage dates back hundreds of years, as being a dog that not only drives cattle but also geese, ducks and sheep. Today, the Pembroke Welsh Corgi is a companion more than a driving dog. In some countries, they do still use the Corgi for driving cattle, but in the United States, the dog is found as a lovable companion for families. Because of their keen sense, Corgis are used for people who are hearing-impaired. They let the owners know about certain sounds that are important to know about. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10263365.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10263365.asp> Thu, 1 Jan 1970 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10270665.asp Obedience training is vital for any breed, but for the Anatolian Shepherd it is almost a necessity. Since this breed is a natural protector and guardian, they need more training to overcome some of their basic instincts. The number one instinct they have is to chase away other animals from their territory. Although they accept other family animals, they will show protection by barking and chasing the predator. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10270665.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10270665.asp> Wed, 26 Sep 2007 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10270965.asp Hearing loss in dogs, as in humans, can be caused by a wide range of disease, trauma and/or congenital problems. In congenital cases, the dog is born deaf. Hearing loss can come on suddenly or gradually due to injury, disease, ear infections, exposure to loud noises or explosions, or simply the wear and tear of old age. Hearing loss is categorized as unilateral (affecting one ear only) or bilateral (affecting both ears). Dogs with white or partially white coats are often subject to a congenital form of deafness connected with the special pigmentation in their skin. In these cases the dog may have unpigmented skin in the inner ear, which causes the nerve endings inside the ear to wither away and die when the affected puppy is only a few weeks old. The end result is deafness. Unlike some conditions, hearing problems are usually noticeable to the pet owner. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10270965.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10270965.asp> Thu, 1 Jan 1970 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10271265.asp There are five good reasons why an Anatolian Shepherd is not right for everyone. The reasons are that they are an overly protective dog, they need plenty of room in the yard, they are harder to train, they have socialization issues and they have a tendency to dig and chase. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10271265.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10271265.asp> Thu, 1 Jan 1970 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10272065.asp The Beaceron has a natural affinity to guarding people and things. It is an excellent guard dog whose appearance and demeanor command respect. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10272065.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10272065.asp> Thu, 1 Jan 1970 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10272265.asp Showing a Beauceron is a feat that requires skill and knowledge on how to present them at their best! This dog requires extensive training and you must be patient with them. They can master what you want them to do and they are eager to please you. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10272265.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10272265.asp> Thu, 1 Jan 1970 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10272965.asp The Beauceron is a wonderful dog in many ways, but it does have its drawbacks. One of those is the length of time it takes for this dog to mature. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10272965.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10272965.asp> Thu, 1 Jan 1970 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10273965.asp The Belgian Malinois is very good with children. Of course, as with any breed of dog, the Belgian Malinois has to be introduced to the children at a young age, and then very carefully in order to ensure the bond and understanding is created. The dog will often grow to love the children and protest them, as the Belgian Malinois is a protection breed. The dog will play with the children, too, and will respect them as being higher in the "pack" if the dog has been properly socialized from an early age. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10273965.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10273965.asp> Wed, 26 Sep 2007 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10275165.asp The Xoloitzcuintli is a breed with above average intelligence, and therefore, it is highly trainable. If you have the right training methods, you can train your Xolo for all sorts of purposes, even competitions. Its agility and versatility also enable it to perform tricks well. If you are serious about training your Xolo, it is best to start at a very young age. You can begin by socializing it, and helping it get used to its surroundings. You have to teach your dog to interact and mingle with humans and other animals. This is especially important if you have other animals like cats in the house. If you train it to befriend other pets at a young age, it won't be a problem or nuisance at home. By socializing your Xoloitzcuintli, you will also expose it to communication with humans. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10275165.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10275165.asp> Thu, 1 Jan 1970 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10275965.asp The Belgian Malinois is a square dog. He does not just appear square, or stand square, like some other breeds. This dog breed actually is exactly square. The dog's body is between 24 to 26 inches tall for males and between 22 to 24 inches tall for females. The dog's body's length is exactly the same as the height of the body. This makes the dog a literal square. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10275965.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10275965.asp> Wed, 26 Sep 2007 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10276265.asp The Wire Fox Terrier is a breed of dog in the terrier family that has accomplished many things from being a hunting dog and show dog to being a wonderful pet. They have a wonderful temperament and personality with the exception of being very stubborn and headstrong. They are very much "into themselves", often thinking they are going to call the shots in the family. They are very intelligent and know what they can and cannot get away with. In spite of their intelligence, they are often difficult to train because of their stubbornness. They only want to do something if they think it is in their best interest to do it, or if there is something in it for them. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10276265.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10276265.asp> Thu, 1 Jan 1970 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10276565.asp There are some reasons why a Bloodhound might not be right for you including their size, tendency to drool, they are not the smartest dog outside of their excellent sense of smell, short life span and they are terribly unmotivated. As one can see, they are basically a hyperactive dog that has to be watched all the time to make sure they do not eat something that can harm them. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10276565.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10276565.asp> Wed, 26 Sep 2007 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10276865.asp Aggression in dogs is a very concerning problem for both dog owners and the general public. A dog that is aggressive can still be an excellent guard dog, family pet or protection dog provided that he or she is obedient, well behaved and controllable and is not dangerous to others. A dog that has problems with excessive aggression will behave in a way that makes the dog a problem to either people, including the owner and family, or towards other pets or animals. There are four basic types of aggression that most dog breeds will exhibit to some degree. These include prey instinct, or the instinct to chase and hunt, territoriality, protection of owner and self defense. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10276865.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10276865.asp> Thu, 1 Jan 1970 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10277365.asp Bloodhounds have one amazing sense of smell and that is why they are said to be an excellent search and rescue dog breed. Their keen sense of smell surpasses all other breeds, they have been responsible for tracking, and finding people lost in remote areas, missing children, fugitives, bodies and other animals. They excel in this field of work. The dogs have a handler that is trained with the dog to perform all duties of a search and rescue dog. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10277365.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10277365.asp> Thu, 1 Jan 1970 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10277465.asp If you have a Bloodhound puppy, you need to start basic commands as soon as you bring them home. Housebreaking and training does take some time and even when you think you have a well trained puppy, they will surprise you and act like they have no idea what you are talking about when you call them. They are a stubborn dog that resists change. They are happy just being themselves and will frustrate you from time to time. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10277465.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10277465.asp> Wed, 26 Sep 2007 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10277965.asp Effective communication is a key aspect to any successful relationship from husband and wife to Welsh Springer Spaniel and owner. To ensure a lasting relationship, you have to rely on your ability to make your requests understood by your pet and make sure that you understand him. Because you both speak different languages, you'll have to compromise to a certain extent in the beginning to open the lines of communication. Through trial or error, you and your Welsh Springer Spaniel will have to communicate on everything from training to playtime. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10277965.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10277965.asp> Wed, 26 Sep 2007 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10278265.asp Obedience training for your dog can mean many things to many different owners, but a common mistake often made by first time pet owners is that they focus only on getting their dog to obey them. Your Welsh Springer Spaniel is a somewhat independent dog and the best type of obedience training that will work will be one that focuses on a well-behaved dog rather than a dog who listens well. The major difference is that one method requires a reactive dog who merely responds to your requests; the other is more suited to the independent-minded Welsh Springer Spaniel because it focuses on teaching your dog how to behave well all of the time. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10278265.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10278265.asp> Thu, 1 Jan 1970 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10278565.asp When you are looking for a puppy, you should look for a happy puppy. A puppy that wags its tail, comes running to you, show playfulness and is curious should prove to be a well-adjusted puppy. If you see a puppy that shows sign of being shy or crouches when you approach them, you should avoid such a puppy. Puppies should be happy and adventurous. A Bloodhound's personality is important to consider when looking for a good family pet. There are some puppies or even older dogs that may have a disposition and personality that is unwanted for a family dog. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10278565.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10278565.asp> Thu, 1 Jan 1970 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10278665.asp When one considers buying a puppy, one has to consider whether to have a male or female. The female is a bit smaller than the male, but this does not make much of a difference when you consider a male or female since both are still fairly large. Things to consider before getting a puppy are: do you plan on breeding? Are you going to use the puppy for tracking? Are you going to have the puppy spayed or neutered? And, what are the temperament of a female and a male and how does that apply to your lifestyle? http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10278665.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10278665.asp> Thu, 1 Jan 1970 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10278865.asp While any dog may have a severe reaction to strangers if he is not well-socialized, this is especially true of the Brussels Griffon. The Brussels Griffon has a naturally suspicious temperament, making him overly aware of strangers and dogs he doesn't know. When approached by a stranger or anyone not in his immediate family, the Brussels Griffon will likely react strongly; and if this behavior is not curbed, it could lead to more serious and detrimental behaviors. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10278865.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10278865.asp> Thu, 1 Jan 1970 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10278965.asp Before you adopt a Brussels Griffon puppy, you need to look at the dog's personality to see if he will work for your specific living situation. One of the most important parts about your living situation that will greatly affect any dog, especially a Brussels Griffon, is whether or not you have a family with small children. While a Brussels Griffon may seem like the perfect, tiny, family dog, he is not a good match for young families, no matter how early the children are introduced to him or how careful they are around him. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10278965.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10278965.asp> Thu, 27 Sep 2007 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10279865.asp Teaching your Welsh Springer Spaniel to do tricks should be a fun task that you can enjoy together. But, in order to teach your Welshie new tricks, you'll have to improve your communication skills by beginning with a few short and simple tricks. Once you improve those skills, training your dog more difficult tricks will be a walk in the park. In no time, you and your Welsh Springer Spaniel will be the talk of the neighborhood with all of your entertaining tricks. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10279865.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10279865.asp> Thu, 1 Jan 1970 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10280165.asp The Brussels Griffon is a terrific dog for many people. A person who wants an incredibly loyal companion who will love them and will enjoy being with them will greatly benefit from adopting a Brussels Griffon. Unfortunately, those with families with young children or who are not interested in small, toy breeds and the care that goes with them would not be happy with the Brussels Griffon. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10280165.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10280165.asp> Thu, 1 Jan 1970 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10281165.asp Cairn Terriers used to be hard working dogs that thrived on hunting and expedition. In the Scottish Highlands, these dogs were used as vermin exterminators, small game hunters and loyal home companions. Today, the modern Cairn Terriers enjoy a much more sedentary existence as household pets. Unfortunately, this breed of dog may be too much to handle. They were simply never bred to be docile animals. They make miserable lapdogs and should never be treated as such. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10281165.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10281165.asp> Thu, 27 Sep 2007 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10282965.asp While the original Manchester Terrier breed can claim its origins back to the 1500's, the Manchesters we know today reveals the cross breeding with the Whippet back in the 1800's. Their slightly arched backs, whipcord lean bodies and the distinct black and tan markings are both present in the standard varieties as well as the Toy Manchester Terrier varieties we know today. This effective breeding with the Whippet is the first sign of adaptability that the modern Manchester has displayed. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10282965.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10282965.asp> Thu, 27 Sep 2007 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10283365.asp When you decide on a Toy Manchester Terrier puppy, be prepared to lose your heart to the inquisitive cock of their head, warm, dark eyes and charming playfulness. You see, these puppies know they are cute and they know that you know it. Therefore, a Toy Manchester Terrier puppy will take every advantage possible, so you have to be prepared to be the "bad" guy when integrating him into your household. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10283365.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10283365.asp> Thu, 1 Jan 1970 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10283465.asp A Cairn Terrier is cute and petite. A Cairn Terrier has boundless energy. A Cairn Terrier is a person-oriented dog. These statements are true on all accounts. However, not all dog breeds are the same. Most of the time, we associate the temperament of the dog to its size, which should not be the case at all. Let us debunk some of the more popular myths that still surround the Cairn Terriers. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10283465.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10283465.asp> Thu, 1 Jan 1970 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10284265.asp Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are not only lovely looking dogs they are also very eager to please this often makes them easy to train. If you have had a dog before then you will know that puppies need to be housebroken and taught acceptable behavior and this is also true of the Cavalier. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10284265.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10284265.asp> Thu, 27 Sep 2007 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10285765.asp Dogs are very much like children and need to be educated about how to behave properly and what behaviors are unacceptable. If a puppy isn't trained, then problem behaviors will persist into adulthood and worsen. Not only will the behaviors themselves increase in frequency, but an adult dog's actions can be much more dangerous than the actions of a small puppy. One of the dog behaviors that can get out of hand if not curtailed early on is biting. No dog behavior is inherently "bad." Dog behavior is the result of both the natural forces that shaped wolf pack behavior and the selective breeding humans performed in order to create breeds suitable for specific jobs. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10285765.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10285765.asp> Thu, 1 Jan 1970 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10290565.asp One of the most daunting tasks for any new pet owner is to potty-train or house-break the pet. This task can be even more burdensome if your new pet is a Coton de Tulear. As a small animal, a Coton requires more frequent trips to the bathroom than a larger dog. Think of your Coton as a small child; the younger it is, the more often it has to "go". The house breaking process with your new Coton can be a real test of patience, but there are certainly ways to make it easier. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10290565.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10290565.asp> Thu, 1 Jan 1970 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10290865.asp Since the Coton de Tulear is so eager to please its owner, it shows great willingness to learn the occasional trick. If you have the determination to work with your Coton, and it won't take much, you can easily train your companion to perform tricks. What's important to understand when training your Coton to do tricks is that the learning process for dogs is very similar to that of humans. You will have to work with your Coton at least several times a week to ensure that it can successfully perform tricks on command. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10290865.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10290865.asp> Thu, 27 Sep 2007 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10291265.asp "The chains of habit are generally too small to be felt until they are too strong to be broken." ~ Samuel Johnson. Samuel Johnson, one of England's best-known literary figures, gives some great advice here when it comes to potty training your Lhasa: what you want to do - if you want to be successful with minimal pain and effort - is start training early and be consistent. Experts recommend these following steps: First: you'll want to catch and correct any physical problems or medical complications could negatively affect not only potty training but also training in general. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10291265.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10291265.asp> Thu, 27 Sep 2007 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10292565.asp Many Keeshond owners can teach their little dogs to do some fascinating tricks. Aside from agility training there are some other tricks a Keeshond can do. What we as humans consider tricks are considered playing by the Keeshond. They have their own sets of tricks as well as the ones you teach them. Because the Keeshond bores easily, you should never make them perform all their tricks at one time, they can decide to give up and sit without listening. Keeshonds are great performers as well as clowns and try to make you happy in every way. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10292565.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10292565.asp> Thu, 27 Sep 2007 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10295065.asp A Komondor is not by nature aggressive towards people, but it is very strong-willed. It mostly has a calm temperament unless it is provoked. Some of the things that can provoke a Komondor to act aggressively are territorial intrusions and threats to an owner or the owner's livestock. This is mostly due to its protective temperament and less due to inbred hostility. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10295065.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10295065.asp> Thu, 1 Jan 1970 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10295765.asp A Fila Brasileiro is one of the few breeds of large dogs raised to herd livestock. They are most comfortable in country settings and can be hard to keep in an urban environment. Since they were bred to herd and protect livestock, they have a natural aggressive tendency to anyone that that they do not consider part of their herd. This can range from other pets to strangers. They are naturally suspicious of strangers and can have an over-protective instinct that can get them in trouble in a social setting. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10295765.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10295765.asp> Thu, 1 Jan 1970 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10296365.asp The Fila Brasileiro has an instinctive aggressiveness towards strangers, and it doesn't mind showing it. For this reason, it is not judged on signs of aggressiveness in a dog show, even though some Filas are disqualified for being overly aggressive. It is not friendly with other animals and distinctly dislikes other Fila Brasileiros of the same sex. It is tremendously aggressive towards other small animals, like cats. It will not hesitate to injure or kill another animal. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10296365.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10296365.asp> Thu, 1 Jan 1970 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10296565.asp The Fila Brasileiro is one of four dogs banned in the United Kingdom. The four breeds covered under the Dangerous Dogs Act of 1991 are pit bull terriers, Dogo Argentinos, Fila Brasileiro, and Japanese Tosas. Why has the Fila Brasileiro been included in this list? It is a dog that has been bred to guard and herd livestock, so wouldn't it be a protective guard dog? Yes and no. The Fila Brasileiro is the most aggressive of the guard dogs, being completely open with its aggressiveness towards strangers. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10296565.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10296565.asp> Thu, 1 Jan 1970 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10296765.asp The Fila Brasileiro is a breed that requires extensive socialization. It was bred to be a guard dog and herder and thus has a natural tendency to be suspicious of strangers and very defensive. This can lead it to be aggressive with any pets or people that are not part of its family. This natural aggressiveness cannot be socialized out of it completely. It can be dampened and with a very firm owner, it can take its cue on when to refrain from acting on instinct to defend and attack. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10296765.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10296765.asp> Thu, 1 Jan 1970 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10297265.asp The Fila Brasileiro makes a fine bodyguard. It is completely loyal to its owner and has a naturally suspicious nature towards strangers. If you want a dog that will put your security needs first, this dog will be more than happy to comply. It has originally bred as a guard dog for livestock, but this devotion carries through to the owner and the owner's household. The breed's characteristics give it a good sense of smell and a powerful and intimidating appearance. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10297265.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10297265.asp> Thu, 1 Jan 1970 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10297465.asp The Fila Brasileiro is a very large dog, which leads some to believe that it is best kept outdoors. The Fila Brasileiro is happy to live outdoors but it can also be brought up to spend time indoors too. This type of socialization and respect for your property should be done when the dog is still a puppy. Once the dog is older, if it has not learned how to behave indoors, it can become destructive without meaning to be. Thus, the rules of the house have to be imposed early along with a good dose of obedience training. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10297465.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10297465.asp> Thu, 1 Jan 1970 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10297565.asp The Fila Brasileiro is a Brazilian guard dog that was bred to hunt jaguar and guard livestock. The dog is very large, standing about three feet tall in some cases and weighing up to 200 pounds. Their handlers know them for their extreme faithfulness, with a natural suspiciousness towards strangers. This suspiciousness expresses itself in aggressiveness that the dog doesn't bother to hide when faced with a stranger. This is called "ojeriza" which is Portuguese and means a loathing or sharp aversion of strangers. They can be very fast and, despite their massive frames, can jump very well. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10297565.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10297565.asp> Thu, 1 Jan 1970 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10298465.asp There are two ways of adopting a Flat Coated Retriever: one is to find a reputable breeder from which you can find a suitable puppy to raise; and the other one is to adopt an adult Flat Coated Retriever which may have been abandoned or rescued and placed into a shelter or pound. In either case, you have to decide early on whether you want to adopt a puppy or a fill grown dog. There are pros and cons to both sides of the coin - weighing your options before you adopt will save you a lot of headaches and heartaches. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10298465.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10298465.asp> Thu, 1 Jan 1970 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10299565.asp Like all dog breeds of the Retriever lineage, the Flat Coated Retriever is great when it comes to the outdoor sport called hunting. Hunting is basically bringing down game and as a sport, it follows a specified number of rules and regulations. With the case of the Flat Coated Retriever, game means small game like fowls, i.e. quail, wild duck, grouse, etc. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10299565.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10299565.asp> Thu, 27 Sep 2007 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102100265.asp There are two essential training that the Rat Terrier should undergo: obedience and socialization. These two forms of training can be the cornerstone to a very docile pet - one with a very gentle temperament but still maintains a fiery spirit. Undeniably, your Rat Terrier pet can be stubborn or willful at times. It can even be a bit frustrating to teach especially if it suddenly decides to go wandering off instead. Coaxing it gently to sit through training may take a bit of work and a lot of positive reinforcements like food rewards or verbal praise or a few minutes with its favorite toy. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102100265.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102100265.asp> Thu, 1 Jan 1970 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102100365.asp A Flat Coated Retriever is usually classified as a working dog or as a hunting dog. Retrievers have a long line of historical feat when it comes to hunting, flushing and (of course) retrieving small game. Although often used for hunting, the Flat Coated Retriever is never trained to be a game "pointer." http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102100365.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102100365.asp> Thu, 1 Jan 1970 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102101465.asp Now that you've decided on a Gordon Setter, what method will you employ to train your new pup? The crate method has been gaining momentum with many dog owners, and it can work for you too! If you've decided on a larger breed such as the Gordon Setter, you will find this method simple and so will your new pet. Basically, crate-training involves a large airline-style crate or metal cage that is big enough for your Setter to sit, stand and turn around in. This crate will be used to confine your Gordon Setter when you or your family will not be home to supervise. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102101465.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102101465.asp> Thu, 1 Jan 1970 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102101865.asp The Gordon Setter has a beautiful coat and an easy-going nature, two ideal characteristics for any dog preparing for competition. You think your dog is beautiful and destined to be a star, but will the judges agree with you? There are several areas on which you should focus if you are seriously considering entering your Gordon Setter into competition; training, conditioning and grooming & nutrition. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102101865.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102101865.asp> Thu, 1 Jan 1970 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102102365.asp Because the Gordon Setter was originally bred as a hunting dog, it's very obedient and well-behaved. These two traits are ideal in any dog that you want to train to do anything from tricks to talking to potty training. When training your Gordon Setter, exercising patience will be the key to your success. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102102365.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102102365.asp> Thu, 1 Jan 1970 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102105465.asp The American Pit Bull Terrier has received a lot of negative publicity in recent years, which has given it a fearsome reputation. This reputation has led to a general dislike of the breed among the overall public, and has even led to increases in insurance premiums for owners and local bans on the dogs. The fearsome reputation of the American Pit Bull Terrier stems from a series of well-publicized attacks by dogs of the breed, a number of which resulted in human fatalities. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102105465.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102105465.asp> Thu, 1 Jan 1970 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102105965.asp American Pit Bull Terriers are subject to breed-specific legislation, ownership restrictions, insurance restrictions and outright bans in at least 7 countries of the world. These bans have stemmed from a number of attacks by pit bull-type dogs, many of which have resulted in fatalities. But many owners and lovers of the American Pit Bull Terrier (APBT) argue that bans on APBT's are unfair and that the breed makes an excellent companion animal and family pet. The controversy surrounding American Pit Bull Terriers has created two drastically divided camps. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102105965.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102105965.asp> Thu, 1 Jan 1970 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102106265.asp Controversy aside, many American Pit Bull Terriers have proven to be very good family pets. With the American Pit Bull Terrieir (APBT), owners are always cautioned to know the breed's temperament and know it well. It is recommended that only people who can commit to the proper training and upkeep of the APBT attempt to own one. In large part, this entails knowing what to expect from the dogs regarding safety around other dogs, animals, and children. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102106265.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102106265.asp> Mon, 1 Oct 2007 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102107465.asp Because of the specifications that breeders go for when developing dog breeds, there are now many dogs that are able to do so many things that sometimes exceeds expectations. While dogs were basically treated as either work dogs or family pets in the past, now they are given more importance because of their numerous abilities. There are dogs that, aside from being sporting dogs, are also quite good in the show ring. Due to the inherent qualities that enable these dogs to perform as hunting dogs, they become very adept in agility and obedience tests in dog shows. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102107465.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102107465.asp> Mon, 1 Oct 2007 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102107665.asp Each type of dog has its own likes and dislikes, ranging from the daily activities to the type of food being offered. While there are dogs that love to be pampered and showered with affection, there are others that shy away from human contact. While there are dogs that love to run around and play all the time, there are also dogs that are just content to lie around almost all the time. Of course, the likes and dislikes of these dogs are basically what made their owners get them. This is because the dogs' preferences are mostly also complementary to those of their owners. Those who are planning to buy dogs, more often than not, look into what a particular dog likes and what it abhors, so they could see if they are able to give the dog what it needs and wants. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102107665.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102107665.asp> Mon, 1 Oct 2007 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102109565.asp The Standard Schnauzer is a canine that needs firm training. They are very intelligent and can learn quickly, but they will challenge authority. An owner must clearly show or demonstrate to the Standard Schnauzer that they, the human, is the boss-not the dog with the human brain. The Standard Schnauzer will display a strong will or temperament. They can have an obstinate nature that will challenge you at every turn. The trainer or owner must be firm and unyielding. They must demand respect from this dog. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102109565.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102109565.asp> Thu, 1 Jan 1970 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102109865.asp The American Water Spaniel is a spunky breed that loves nothing more then to spend time with its owner. One of the benefits of having a dog that hunts often comes in the opportunity to combine training exercises with play. The Spaniel gets in a good amount of exercise while owners help their dogs learn valuable hunting skills. When training is kept short and exciting, the Spaniel is then able to keep a more positive attitude when out in the field. Spaniels who are put through rigorous drills and training are likely to give a less than successful performance. It is also a great way for the dog and its owner to bond and learn each other's cues. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102109865.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102109865.asp> Thu, 1 Jan 1970 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102112165.asp Before you take the time to consider being an owner of a Belgian Sheepdog, you have to understand the amount of effort you must exert into owning this breed. Unlike some other breeds, this one needs to always have something to do, must feel useful or they will become bored. If your Belgian Sheepdog becomes bored, he will look for ways to entertain himself, which may cause him to become destructive or exert signs of poor behavior. On the other end of the spectrum, however, a Belgian Sheepdog that is well-trained and possesses social skills will be a pride to his or her owner and tends to be like a shadow, following its master everywhere he goes. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102112165.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102112165.asp> Thu, 1 Jan 1970 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102112765.asp Before you invest in a Belgian Sheepdog, make sure you have both the time and room to exercise him. This highly intelligent breed requires a great deal of human interaction and exercise. They are not well-suited to apartment living unless you have a large area where you can exercise them frequently. This dog breed is not happy to sit around at your feet and be petted. They are herding dogs, and herding dogs always have to have something to do to keep them busy. If you don't use your Belgian Sheepdog for herding, you have to find activities to keep him busy so that he doesn't become bored. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102112765.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102112765.asp> Thu, 1 Jan 1970 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102113065.asp Any time you bring home a new puppy, there are certain things you need to do in order to prepare for your new visitor. One of the things you have to consider is where to put your Belgian Sheepdog puppy if everyone is out of the house during the day for work and school. Remember, this breed does not do well on its own, and with everyone gone and nothing to do, he become bored and make a mess of things. In order to prevent that, you may want to have a cage or blocked off area for your puppy so that he cannot cause any damage. This may also be necessary when it grows older as well, depending upon how long it is necessary for everyone to be out of the house. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102113065.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102113065.asp> Thu, 1 Jan 1970 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102113665.asp The Belgian Sheepdog is a highly intelligent breed that must always have plenty to keep him busy. Unlike many other breeds, he is not content to just stand beside you and wait for something to happen. They need to be busy doing something whether it's herding, assisting the blind or disabled, working with agility exercises, or working as a police or guard dog. They must be busy at all times or they will find their own entertainment, which may not suit your idea of a challenging activity. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102113665.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102113665.asp> Thu, 1 Jan 1970 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102114165.asp A Belgian Sheepdog is a very highly intelligent breed that requires interaction with people as well as both mental and physical stimulation. Their superior intelligence and need to please make them very easy to train, but because they sometimes try to act like they know more than their owners, it's important to know the proper training methods or to enroll them in professional training classes. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102114165.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102114165.asp> Thu, 1 Jan 1970 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102114865.asp Pytalism, or excessive drooling, is common in the Black and Tan Coonhound. Their extra loose and floppy jowls do not do much to keep the slobber inside their mouths. For some, this is an endearing trait; for others, it can be a nuisance. However, drooling is every bit a part of this breed as its tail and little can be done to stop it. Plus, this trait very much plays a part in the Black and Tan Coonhound's extraordinary ability to track scents. It is said that much can be told about a person by the way they deal with their Coonhound's drool. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102114865.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102114865.asp> Thu, 1 Jan 1970 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102116265.asp Before the invention of the grocery store, hunting was one of the chief methods of bringing food into the home. Scent hounds were commonly found in a vast number of households and they were greatly relied upon for tracking and treeing all types of wild quarry. Though it is mostly considered sport these days, when people think of hunting and tracking, visions of the Black and Tan Coonhound often come to mind. The breed has procured quite a large role in American culture, yet few truly know anything about Coonhounds beyond the myths and stereotypes that often follow the breed. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102116265.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102116265.asp> Mon, 1 Oct 2007 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102116565.asp If there is one thing that drives shih tzu owners crazy everywhere it's excessive barking. When something sets them off, these little dogs can really get themselves worked up into a lather. If you're not there to stop it, the noise could go on for half an hour. Gentle training of your dog, when kept up, should yield good results. While its worthwhile to have your shih tzu alert, to warn you when something is out of the ordinary, until they learn what ordinary is from you, there'll be confusion on the matter and a lot of noise. When it's something you don't want them to bark at, very calmly tell them no. When , it is ideal to praise them for letting you know, and telling them not to bark any more, now that you know what's going on. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102116565.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102116565.asp> Mon, 1 Oct 2007 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102116765.asp Shih tzus are usually among the easier dogs to housebreak, however, most people find themselves torn between using a crate to train a dog and some of the more creative methods that people have designed. Regardless of the method you choose, always remember that the goal is to stop all elimination in your house and make the process as painless as possible for everyone involved. For starters, punitive methods of punishment are now seen for what they are: mild forms of animal abuse. There is no reason to shout or beat a dog, certainly not a shih tzu. Simply teaching your dog what to do and letting them know when you're displeased, you can come to an understanding that is mostly based on reward, whether that be treats or your affection. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102116765.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102116765.asp> Mon, 1 Oct 2007 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102118665.asp Much like with humans, obsessive compulsive disorder in dogs is characterized by the uncontrollable repetition of bizarre, out of context behavior. This behavior can be literally anything and is directed either at other animals or humans or even at inanimate objects such as food dishes or a piece of furniture. In the least severe cases, your dog's disorder might manifest through something simple like pacing back and forth, or hiding in a particular spot for seemingly no reason. At other times, it can become more problematic such as when they begin to bark at "nothing" for hours at a time, or destroy your or other's property with no provocation. In the worst cases, your dog might cause serious problems by turning its frustration against itself. In many cases, this might manifest as destructive behavior such as the dog compulsively chewing on its own foot, resulting in infections and problematic lesions. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102118665.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102118665.asp> Thu, 1 Jan 1970 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102119765.asp As a dog recognized for superior intelligence, athleticism and a strong work ethic, Border Collies are prime candidates for obedience training and competing. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102119765.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102119765.asp> Tue, 2 Oct 2007 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102120965.asp Just like people, dogs also have their own likes and dislikes that owners must take note of. These preferences could somehow be seen as guidelines in taking care of a particular dog breed. If you are a new owner of a dog, then aside from knowing of your dog breed's temperament, you should also see to it that you know what it likes and what it does not like. This is if you want your life as a new dog owner to be convenient and fulfilling. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102120965.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102120965.asp> Thu, 1 Jan 1970 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102121465.asp All breeds of dog were created from existing stock to do something in particular. Just because we tend to keep them all as pets in post-modern times doesn't mean dogs have lived and worked with human beings for centuries. The dachshund was designed for one thing: going to ground. Whether that means hunting badgers, rabbits or whatever, it's what they do. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102121465.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102121465.asp> Thu, 1 Jan 1970 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102121565.asp Whether you've just brought home a puppy or an older dog from elsewhere, your first task will be to teach her or him where to go to the bathroom other than your rugs. This is easier said than done in most cases, as the breed is very stubborn and willful. Generally, the trick is to get the dog to think that this fantastic idea is theirs. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102121565.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102121565.asp> Tue, 2 Oct 2007 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102122465.asp A lot of thought should be poured into finding out which dog breed is best for you. If you are eyeing a Scottish Deerhound for a pet, then there are some things that you have to consider before you decide to get one. Knowing certain characteristics of the dog you want to own would make it easier for you to take care of it. First of all, if you are living in an apartment, then a Scottish Deerhound is definitely not the best dog breed for you. Although an adult Scottish Deerhound can cope with living in enclosed spaces if it is given sufficient exercise, a younger Deerhound will fare better in a home with a large yard. It would even be better if you are living in a ranch with acres of land, so you would have more room for your Scottish Deerhound to run and roam around. Because of its size, it is also advisable that your home is large enough to accommodate a Deerhound. You have to make sure that your yard or your land is fenced to ensure the safety of your pet. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102122465.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102122465.asp> Thu, 1 Jan 1970 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102122665.asp Perhaps more than most breeds, an improperly socialized dachshund is more likely than not to develop a habit of fear biting that can make interacting with new people or dogs something to fear rather than look forward to. Often, owners don't even realize why their dog is so seemingly aggressive just before running away or rolling over in submission. It may very well be that your dog is in a constant state of high anxiety. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102122665.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102122665.asp> Tue, 2 Oct 2007 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102123465.asp If you have a Scottish Deerhound as a pet, then one of the most important things that you should know is the dog's independent nature. This trait translates to its innate sense of pleasing only itself almost all the time and not its owner. A Scottish Deerhound is also basically stubborn in nature, making it one of the hardest dog breeds to train or housebreak. Because of this, it is no mean feat to try to teach your Scottish Deerhound some parlor tricks. If you want to attempt this near impossible feat to impress someone or to prove something to yourself, then you should be ready to take a long and challenging journey. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102123465.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102123465.asp> Thu, 1 Jan 1970 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102124065.asp While there are people who are content to have a dog to cuddle, there are others who want to own dogs so they can show them off. Because of this, they subject their pets to intense training to enhance their innate skills and talents. One of the dog breeds that dog owners are proud to train is the Field Spaniel. The Field Spaniel is greatly admired as a beautiful and useful dog, and it has natural sporting instincts as well as tracking and hunting abilities which make it a very flexible dog. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102124065.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102124065.asp> Tue, 2 Oct 2007 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102128165.asp The Samoyed is a Northern breed, and among other things, this means that training them presents a unique challenge. This is not to say that the Samoyed is "difficult" to train; rather, they simply require a different approach than a dog who is more inclined to readily accept textbook training techniques than they are. Their willful and stubborn attitude has given many people the impression that Samoyeds are stupid. This couldn't be further from the truth! A Samoyed is a very highly intelligent dog and as such, any training regimen that you try to put them through had better appeal to their sense of curiosity and low threshold for boredom or else you're setting yourself up for failure. With a dog as intelligent as the Samoyed, variety is critical. Never focus on the same aspect of training for more than maybe half an hour at a time or you will simply exhaust the Samoyed's attention span and end up frustrating both yourself and your dog. Keep things exciting by teaching multiples tricks or commands at the same time and alternating between them throughout the course of a single training session. And remember, once it learns a command, the Samoyed will rarely forget. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102128165.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102128165.asp> Tue, 2 Oct 2007 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102128965.asp Just when you thought you knew everything about different breeds of dogs, you hear of a dog that is so smart and resourceful, he can open the refrigerator as well as most types of kitchen doors. Does this dog need training? Yes, but he will need a special kind of training. You are not dealing with a dog that is not a typical dog. The Saluki is a dog that is almost like a human in some of his thinking. At least, he thinks he is almost human. The Saluki definitely needs training, but not all training methods work with this dog. The Saluki needs firmness and an owner that will show him who the boss is and what is acceptable behavior and what is not acceptable. The difference with this dog, however, is that they are very intelligent and intuitive animals that want to feel that they are in control of the situation. They will balk at learning something unless they feel it is in their best interest to learn it. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102128965.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102128965.asp> Thu, 1 Jan 1970 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102129165.asp The German Wirehaired Pointer is so full of energy and life that it takes a lot to tire it. The best owner for this breed is someone that is always on the go, and enjoys spending active time outdoors. But, if you’re not someone who enjoys outdoor activities, there are ways for you to keep your German Wirehaired Pointer actively engaged. As a hunting dog, this breed is naturally obedient, and with consistent training, it can pick up just about anything, even dog tricks. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102129165.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102129165.asp> Thu, 1 Jan 1970 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102129965.asp The German Wirehaired Pointer is a breed that is naturally standoffish with strangers. While in some instances this could cause a problem, it actually makes it an ideal watch dog. As a family pet, the German Wirehaired Pointer can be very protective and always looking out for danger. Bred as the ultimate hunting dog, the keen instincts of the German Wirehaired Pointer make it a natural watch dog. With proper training, those natural skills will make your pet an amazingly skilled watch dog. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102129965.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102129965.asp> Thu, 1 Jan 1970 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102132265.asp There is nothing as pleasing as a hound that would love to play and prance with its owner, showing affection while it is being trained to do something. You will be very lucky if you are able to find a dog that can be trained quite easily. If you have gotten yourself one of the dogs under the hound line, which are generally known to be quite resistant to training, you should be prepared for a challenging journey ahead. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102132265.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102132265.asp> Tue, 2 Oct 2007 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102133465.asp It is important to teach your Nova Scotia duck tolling retriever puppy to retrieve downed game or ducks and deliver to hand, without him crushing or mangling the bird. Developing a duck tolling retriever this way is a matter of consistent training and conditioning. While some puppies have a natural tendency to retrieve and drop the object in your hand, others would rather drop the object at your feet or bolt and run around carrying their prize. Natural retrievers only need encouragement, making sure they do not pick up any inappropriate behavior, while puppies that drop items or run away with them require more repetitive, gentle training. You want to develop a Nova Scotia duck tolling retriever that always returns the bird to hand without damage. Your puppy must learn to hold an object and then release the object to your hand upon command, just as he had to learn stay, down, or sit commands. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102133465.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102133465.asp> Tue, 2 Oct 2007 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102133665.asp Gun dogs, also knows as bird dogs, are dog breeds developed to help duck and bird hunters locate and retrieve game. There are three primary classes of gundogs based upon their work method, divided into pointing breeds, flushing spaniels and retrievers. Within these classes are several types of bird dogs or gun dogs, which include setters, water dogs, and flushing spaniels. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102133665.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102133665.asp> Thu, 1 Jan 1970 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102137365.asp One of the oldest and rarest of all hunting dogs is the Irish Water Spaniel. Although the depiction of its origins remains sketchy, its reputation as a great hunting companion cannot be denied. The Irish Water Spaniel is rather famous for its daring ability to plunge into the coldest waters just to retrieve a fallen game. It is still being used on upland game hunting and duck hunting, often helping bring over prey like grouse, pheasants, quails, and other wild fowls. This breed of dog is now gradually becoming a favorite among retriever enthusiasts, especially in the hunting or field sport category. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102137365.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102137365.asp> Tue, 2 Oct 2007 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102139765.asp The Norfolk terrier can be a loyal, hard working breed, but the potential Norfolk owner should be cautioned of a few issues that may rear their ugly heads during the training process, as well as potential problems that may come as a result of improper or neglectful training. First of all, as is advised in any and every instance of bringing a new dog into your home, the individual dog's personal history should be investigated. As with any breed, an abusive or neglectful childhood may tragically damage the Norfolk terrier's potential for being trained as a healthy, happy family, show or work dog later in life, perhaps even irreparably. While a mistreated dog might not necessarily be completely unsalvageable, a dog with a rough history will almost certainly be quite a challenge, and training a troublesome dog is not at all recommended for first time or amateur trainers. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102139765.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102139765.asp> Thu, 1 Jan 1970 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102140465.asp If you're getting a dog for the first time, you are probably uncertain as to what breed of dog to get. While many people like the stigma that large dogs give off as being protective and loyal, they do require a lot of more care and maintenance as far as grooming, feeding and exercise needs, etc. However, you may have heard horror stories about small dogs with people referring to them as "ankle biters" or stories of how they snap at little children, etc. While some of these tales are true with both dogs, they are the exception and not the rule for many different breeds. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102140465.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102140465.asp> Tue, 2 Oct 2007 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102141765.asp Miniature poodles are extremely intelligent, cheerful, highly trainable dogs that are wonderful at learning tricks and advanced tricks. Because of their trainability, they have used this cleaver, amusing breed of dog in many circus acts over the centuries. Poodles love to learn and please you and although teaching your dog tricks and advanced tricks is a form of obedience exercise, it keeps the dog energetic, alert, keeps its mind active, and strengthens the bond between you and your pet. It is a great way to have fun and play with your poodle. Dogs that learn advanced tricks are also learning good behavior and obedience. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102141765.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102141765.asp> Thu, 1 Jan 1970 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102142265.asp Miniature bull terriers are very active, funny, fearless, loyal dogs that love being with their family but they require both physical and mental exercise to keep them busy and out of trouble. They need extensive socialization and obedience training so they do not become unruly or aggressive. Most adult miniature bull terriers require suitable daily exercise such as long brisk walks and are great pets for older children that throw balls and play games with them. If you have a miniature bull terrier puppy, often a short playtime is sufficient exercise for him, often followed by a nap. Puppies bones need time to mature so never take your on a long or strenuous walk. Always talk to your veterinarian first to find out what is suitable for a young puppy. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102142265.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102142265.asp> Thu, 1 Jan 1970 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102143365.asp For people considering a miniature bull terrier as a pet or for someone wanting to show, train, or enter their dogs in events or competitions, it is important to have as much information and accurate facts as possible. There are a great number of resources available on the internet with websites that have information on anything you need to know about miniature bull terriers. Books are another great source of important information along with Kennel Clubs, the miniature bull terrier association, and breeders. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102143365.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102143365.asp> Thu, 1 Jan 1970 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102143465.asp For an active miniature bull terrier that has done well in obedience training, possesses excellent social skills, and you want something fun and physical to do together with your pet, then competitions and events are a great way to spend quality time with your dog. This is also a great way to socialize and be with other miniature bull terrier lovers and their pets. Mini bulls love agility training because they get to jump, run, and burn off some of their excess energy. Events such as an agility training competitions are exciting and fun for you and your dog to compete in and just as enjoyable when watching the other dogs compete. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102143465.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102143465.asp> Thu, 1 Jan 1970 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102146365.asp Beagles, like all hound dogs, have been bred to vocalize while on the hunt; these vocalizations helped keep the hunter aware of the dog's position and let the hunter know whether the Beagle was chasing its prey or whether the prey had been caught. People who love the breed tend to find Beagle vocalizations endearing and entertaining, while others are not so pleased by all the loud noise such a little dog can make. Beagles are not dogs that bark incessantly all day, like many toy breeds, but they are hard-wired to sound alerts; usually, these alerts were sounded when prey was sighted, but with Beagles who have never been on the hunt, many things may trigger the alert, such as dust, a car back firing, a shadow or the wind slamming a door shut. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102146365.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102146365.asp> Thu, 1 Jan 1970 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102148165.asp Looking for an easy-going dog that doesn’t know a stranger? The Catahoula Leopard Dog is not the breed for you. First-time owners may want to steer clear of this extremely protective and territorial breed. Meek owners should avoid them as well. This is a loving but strong breed with distinct personality traits. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102148165.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102148165.asp> Tue, 9 Oct 2007 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102148265.asp Thanks to their high intelligence and willingness to please, Whippets are reported to be relatively easy to house train. Some fanciers claim that Whippets are as clean as cats, and if they were whelped in a very clean environment, chances are that they'll wish to continue their good habits when they join their new family. Because of their very light coats, Whippets are not suitable for outdoor living, as both weather extremes are difficult for Whippets - they are not suited for extended periods in very cold weather and can sunburn if left in the summer sun for too long, so house training will be essential. In this article, we'll go over a few tips to help in house training a Whippet. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102148265.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102148265.asp> Thu, 1 Jan 1970 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102148365.asp If you’re looking for a dog that loves every stranger it meets, the Catahoula Leopard Dog is not the breed for you. Catahoula Leopard Dogs can get extremely aggressive with strangers. If not, they will definitely shy away from unfamiliar faces. They may act afraid, shake or back away. They may perceive strangers as a threat and act accordingly. They may scratch and bite. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102148365.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102148365.asp> Tue, 9 Oct 2007 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102149565.asp Racing events are a very exciting event and a lot of fun for both Whippets and their owners to get involved in. Thanks to their history as hunters of small, furry animals, Whippets will take a lot of pleasure from chasing a lure over a field or a race track. That being said, they will still need proper training in order to learn to chase the lure and not play with other dogs on the track. In this article, we'll take a look at some tips for training a racing Whippet. Preparing a Whippet for a life of chasing lures can begin when the dog is just a puppy. Using a cloth or furry toy attached to a string, pull the object in front of the dog and encourage it to chase it. In the beginning, never let the lures get very far away from the dog and allow it to catch it and play with it often, always praising the dog. At this stage, the important concepts are always praise the dog when it does well and never play so long that the dog becomes tired or bored. The idea is to make sure the dog always wants more. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102149565.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102149565.asp> Tue, 9 Oct 2007 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102150265.asp Like many breeds, West Highland Terriers need more sleep than humans in order to stay healthy. These energetic little dogs need upwards of thirteen hours of sleep over a period of twenty-four hours to get sufficient rest. Westies will easily conform to the sleeping habits of their family, often getting the bulk of their rest at night at the same time as their human families, in addition to several naps during the day. In this article, we'll take a look at how new Westie owners can train their dogs to learn good sleeping habits and what to do if you suspect your Westie is sleeping too much. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102150265.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102150265.asp> Tue, 9 Oct 2007 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102150465.asp Like most terriers, West Highland White Terriers have a tendency towards digging. While this behavior is natural to a breed that was bred specifically for this purpose, as a pet, digging can be destructive for a cultivated lawn or dangerous for the dog if he gets a notion to dig under a fence to see what's on the other side. While digging is natural for Westies, there are various methods of controlling this behavior. In this article, we'll take a look at why Westies are predisposed to digging behavior and some tips for how to control it. In order to understand why the West Highland White Terrier has a penchant for digging, we have to go back to its roots. Westies, as well as other short legged terriers from Scotland, were bred specifically for aiding in the hunt for small animals. These "earth dogs" were trained to search out and flush fox and other small animals from their burrows. After generations of this type of work, the behavior becomes ingrained and the body evolves to suit its purpose. This is why Westie's and other terrier's nails tend to grow faster than other breeds, in order to aid them in their digging work. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102150465.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102150465.asp> Tue, 9 Oct 2007 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102151365.asp West Highland White Terriers enjoy a long history as working hunting dogs. In fact, they, along with other short legged terriers that originate in Scotland, were bred specifically to help farmers in keeping small burrowing animals such as foxes and badgers from destroying the crops. This digging instinct is still strong in Westies today, making them excellent competitors in modern day Earthdog Trials. If you're looking for a way to get involved in sporting events with your Westie, Earthdog Trials are an excellent option. Earthdog Trials, notably hosted by the American Kennel Club as well as other organizations throughout North America and Europe, are a non-competitive and safe way of gauging a dog's aptitude in "going to ground," or hunting for quarry in a series of underground tunnels. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102151365.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102151365.asp> Tue, 9 Oct 2007 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102152565.asp You have managed to get a wonderful Tibetan Spaniel after a long time waiting. The dog is everything you dreamed of and it seems to be the perfect dog, well behaved and now house-trained. Then, you go off to work and leave the dog alone and all of a sudden the problems start. The dog forgets its house-training or refuses to use newspaper while you are out. The furniture is chewed to pieces and your neighbors are complaining that it barks all the time when you are gone. You are starting to get visits from the animal control office. What went wrong? Simply put, the Tibetan Spaniel cannot be left alone for long periods of time without suffering separation anxiety. While it can appear to be the model dog as long as you are around, the minute you leave the clock starts ticking. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102152565.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102152565.asp> Thu, 1 Jan 1970 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102153365.asp No matter the amount of variation within the breed known as the Central Asian Ovtcharka (more correctly known as the Central Asian Shepherd, or CAS), these dogs developed with one general purpose: guarding their owners and the livestock that belonged to their owners. Only the strongest, most courageous and intelligent of these dogs would survive the harsh conditions under which they and their humans lived and so a breed of dog was born that was the archetypical guardian dog, able to think on its own and willing to sacrifice his own life to save that of his family. Even today, the CAS is used for guardian purposes and makes an excellent watch dog, in both his native country and in locations around the world. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102153365.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102153365.asp> Thu, 1 Jan 1970 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102153565.asp The Central Asian Shepherd, sometimes called the Central Asian Ovtcharka, has been used to guard humans, their camps and flocks for centuries; they considered themselves a part of the livestock, ready to spring into action if any threat should arise. The same held true for the personal property and land of its humans. In the harsh Central Asian countries that it called home, the Ovtcharka often found itself battling large, fierce predators, such as bears, wolves, leopards and even tigers. Only the strongest, most courageous and most intelligent dogs would be able to survive the life that these dogs led. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102153565.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102153565.asp> Thu, 1 Jan 1970 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102153665.asp The Central Asian Ovtcharka, or CAO, is not a breed for the faint of heart. If you’ve never owned a dog before, or if you’ve owned something like a Yorkshire Terrier, you should probably not attempt to own one of these Mastiff-type dogs. They can be quite a handful, not in terms of energy, but in terms of sheer size and power. If not properly trained and handled, they could develop very aggressive and violent tendencies, putting others at risk. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102153665.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102153665.asp> Tue, 9 Oct 2007 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102153765.asp The Tibetan Spaniel, sometimes affectionately referred to as a "Tibbie," is a very sensitive dog breed. Their wonderfully expressive eyes seem to convey the many moods of this exquisitely sensitive dog. The dog also seems to respond to the moods of its owners and can appear to try to give solace to an owner that is sad or depressed. Similarly, it has a very playful temperament and can sometimes exhibit a smile that looks more like a grin. There are specific situations though that will trigger obstinate behavior and pouty moods in your dog. Learn some of the moods your dog is trying to convey and you will have a better insight into how to handle the dog in a way that leaves it eager to please and content. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102153765.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102153765.asp> Thu, 1 Jan 1970 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102154165.asp The Central Asian Ovtcharka, or CAO, grows to be a very large, massive dog and has the inborn urge to protect his family from strangers; he has the capability of being quite aggressive, as his ancestors were required to fight dangerous predators, such as wolves and tigers. Many people, especially in the US, look to get involved with this breed specifically for their protective characteristics; they view the CAO as an impressive mobile burglar deterrent. What many people don’t realize, however, is that this dog must be trained very early on to not view every single new person or animal as a threat; they must especially be trained to not attack people or animals who approach their homes or family members. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102154165.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102154165.asp> Tue, 9 Oct 2007 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102154765.asp Dog breeds vary in their tendency towards separation anxiety. The Sussex Spaniel is a breed that is predisposed to suffer separation anxiety more than other breeds. This may be due to its role as being part of the hunt and a pack of dogs. When it is separated from this pack, it tends to bond with its owner. If the owner doesn't understand the dog's needs, it can lead to the dog displaying negative behavior like destructive chewing and barking. It will even howl when it is distressed. Some dogs with soil the house, if left alone too long. This might be because they missed their outing or because they are angry or upset. Don't discipline the dog for these mistakes as it is acting out of distress that you were gone. Instead, try to develop a routine that is comforting to the dog while allowing you some time away from the home for short periods. The best type of environment for a Sussex Spaniel is one where there is someone home all day long. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102154765.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102154765.asp> Tue, 9 Oct 2007 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102155265.asp The Sussex Spaniel is a dog that is not easily trained. House training can be difficult and they are prone to separation anxiety and stubbornness. They do have good intelligence and will eventually pick up on their training, but it can take some time and some patience. The innate stubbornness doesn't make them less friendly, however, they can try to manipulate a situation to get what they want. Just be firm and consistent with their training so that they get the idea that you won't accept less from them than their obedience. House training a Sussex Spaniel can be difficult because it will sometimes soil the house to show its displeasure. If you leave the dog alone too long, it might soil the house because separation anxiety has been triggered in the dog. You can crate-train this dog, but you shouldn't leave them in the crate too long. They do need to be exercised regularly and vigorously to grow up healthy and strong. The breed can make a great outdoors dog in temperate climates. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102155265.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102155265.asp> Thu, 1 Jan 1970 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102155365.asp Chinese Foo dogs are unique in that they come in three distinct sizes: Toy, which is under ten inches, Miniature, which is between ten and fifteen inches, and Standard, which is above fifteen inches. Choosing which sized Chinese Foo to buy will depend on the family situation, size of the home and availability of space to exercise and play. In this article, we’ll take a look at the pros and cons of each of the three sizes of Chinese Foos. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102155365.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102155365.asp> Tue, 9 Oct 2007 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102155765.asp The Sussex Spaniel is more comfortable being an outside dog than an indoor dog. You can have one as a family pet, but it does have issues with house training. Many people quickly realize that house training a Sussex Spaniel will take patience and time. Even after the dog seems trained, it can still have occasional accidents due to temperamental stress or pure obstinacy. The time to start house training your dog, is the minute you bring it home. You can house train a Sussex Spaniel by crate training it. Just do not leave it alone for too long in a crate. It has a need for companionship and can suffer separation anxiety. It also needs a good deal of exercise. This is not a dog that can spend the entire day in a crate. As a puppy, it might not be as hard for it to remain in the crate until it is time to go, but as an older dog this would be very hard on the dog. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102155765.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102155765.asp> Tue, 9 Oct 2007 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102157565.asp The smooth fox terrier is a dog that makes a great family pet, especially for families with older children, as they will both have the energy to entertain and play with each other. The smooth fox terrier is a very energetic and active dog that seeks a lot of attention from its human companions, so before you decide to add a smooth fox terrier to your family you will want to make sure that it is the right type of pet for you and your children. Smooth fox terriers are generally gentle, playful dogs, however if the dog has had prior experience with children that has not been good then you may want to reconsider especially if it is an older dog as it will be harder to train the dog to be tolerant of children. If, however your smooth fox terrier has had to bad experience with kids then they would make the perfect companion for your children as your children will be able to give them the attention that they require by playing and talking with them for hours. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102157565.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102157565.asp> Tue, 9 Oct 2007 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102157665.asp By nature, the smooth fox terrier is a dog that requires a lot of attention, but in return for the attention that is seeks the smooth fox terrier will be an affectionate loyal companion to you and your family. However, if the smooth fox terrier is not give the attention that it requires it can become an aggressive dog that may be hard to control or deal with. Because aggressive behavior can be scary and overwhelming for most owners it is important that the owner seeks professional help if the behavior of the smooth fox terrier does not change after repeated training. If you find that your smooth fox terrier is an aggressive dog, you will want to deal with the problem right away and turn your dog into a more loving, calm dog. If you allow the dogs aggressive behavior to escalate you may find that your dog may harm other animals and possibly harm humans as well. So before you allow it to come to that there are some ways in which you can deal with the aggressive behavior of your smooth fox terrier. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102157665.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102157665.asp> Tue, 9 Oct 2007 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102159065.asp A new member of the pack is rarely easy on a dog. This is especially true of breeds such as Skye Terriers that are very picky about the people and animals they associate with. There are some things you can do however, that will make the transition a little bit easier for everyone involved. Begin Preparing Early Babies bring new equipment, new scents, and new noises into the home. While you can't easily prepare your Skye for everything before the big day arrives you can begin bringing in the new baby equipment, establishing boundaries for toys (Skyes love teddy bears), and playing the music that will be commonly heard around the house. Another way to prepare your Skye for the new sounds is to get a recording of a baby crying and play it over and over again. This is a sound the Skye needs to be accustomed to and not alarmed by. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102159065.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102159065.asp> Thu, 1 Jan 1970 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102159965.asp The English Setter is highly intelligent and loves to spend time with its owner; so much so, that the breed is not recommended for those who spend a great deal of time away from home. They thrive on companionship and naturally assume that they will be included in all activities. As some have come to find, English Setters are a breed that can suffer from extreme separation anxiety; therefore, it is of utmost importance that new owners work with their dogs to help temper this characteristic. It should be understood that even though Setters can have separation anxiety, the trait is not a given with every dog and can be exhibited in varying degrees. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102159965.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102159965.asp> Thu, 1 Jan 1970 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102160365.asp English Setters are a happy, active breed throughout most of their lives; however, it is their puppyhood that many owners find most challenging. While they go through all the normal stages of development, it is a time when firm boundaries must be established without fail. This not only helps them feel safe but prevents an overdevelopment of separation anxiety from taking root, something the breed has a known tendency for. Failing to take the upper hand is likely to result in needless trials and tribulations. The happy English Setter is one who knows the rules of the game and is confident in their owner. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102160365.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102160365.asp> Thu, 1 Jan 1970 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102162665.asp The Kuvasz is of Hungarian origin where it was often used as a personal bodyguard for nobility. Later, it became a good dog for herding sheep and watching the farmhouses. In World War II, the encroaching German armies practically decimated the species because they had to kill the dogs as they tried to take a farmhouse. The dogs would often warn the owners of potential intruders and also give its life to protect the family. It is a fierce guard dog that takes its role seriously. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102162665.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102162665.asp> Thu, 1 Jan 1970 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102162765.asp The Kuvasz has a booming bark befitting this large dog. It is an excellent watchdog and will be on watch all night long. This can be great if you live out in the country, but hardly ideal if you live in the city. The Kuvasz is not a dog that does well in urban environments for this reason. Instead of using its great watchdog instincts for protecting your property, in the city you will probably end up with the animal control people being called every time your dog becomes a noise nuisance. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102162765.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102162765.asp> Thu, 1 Jan 1970 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102162965.asp A Kuvasz is a large dog that excels at being a guard dog. It has a naturally aggressive nature towards strangers, but can be devotedly loyal to its handler. The aggression can come out as an overall suspiciousness or it can provoke barking and biting behavior. In order to handle the dog’s natural aggressiveness, you have to understand the mind of a dog that was bred to guard nobility and then later to herd sheep. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102162965.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102162965.asp> Thu, 1 Jan 1970 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102163065.asp The Kuvasz has a very stubborn temperament and is used to making its own decisions. This comes from its long history of being used as a guard dog for livestock and nobility. It will tend to make up its own mind and it will want to control almost any interaction. This is a dog that is dominant and isn’t afraid to push your buttons. You can expect that even when you think the dog is trained and taking your lead, that it may suddenly test your boundaries one more time to see if you really mean business. It is up to you to be consistently firm and not waffle or let the dog take the lead at any time, or it will think you are a pushover. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102163065.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102163065.asp> Thu, 1 Jan 1970 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102164765.asp Many times when people get Manchester terriers, they are not sure what kind of dogs they are; unless they previously owned one. However, Manchester terriers are mostly an all-round great dog. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102164765.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102164765.asp> Thu, 1 Jan 1970 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102165365.asp Many people think that they only dogs that are worth while when hunting are the bigger breeds. However, many people are now using smaller breeds such as the Manchester terriers as well. When it comes to the Manchester terriers as being hunting dogs, not all of them are cut out for the job. In fact, in order for a Manchester terrier to become a hunting dog, there are many things that it will need to learn first. Many times when people think of a hunting dog, they think of them as chasing around big animals such as bears. However, there are also many other different kinds of hunting dogs. When it actually comes down to hunting dogs, it does not matter what size of animal it is that they are hunting; it is that they are actually hunting a specific animal that they are supposed to be hunting. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102165365.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102165365.asp> Thu, 1 Jan 1970 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102165965.asp Anyone that decides to own a large guard dog will have to deal with the realities of the liabilities they are undertaking when doing so. The Maremma Sheepdog is no different. This is a large guard dog that takes its role as guardian very seriously. While it is not overtly aggressive with strangers, it does have a fierce reputation as a slayer of wolves. So, this is not a dog to be taken lightly. It has an independent mindset and will sometimes ignore the commands of an owner if its guardian instincts kick in. It will not hesitate to bark and bite a stranger that is not welcome on your property. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102165965.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102165965.asp> Thu, 1 Jan 1970 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102166265.asp A Maremma puppy is ready for obedience training once it hits four to six months of age. This may seem early, but the breed has an above average intelligence level. It also has a tendency to make up its own mind, which means that obedience training is a must with this dog. Even after you get it into training, you will notice that the dog doesn’t immediately obey your command. They will take a few minutes to think it over and decide whether what you are requesting sounds like a good idea to them. This reasoning ability is what makes them very good livestock guardians, but it is also what makes them less of a star in formal obedience trials. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102166265.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102166265.asp> Thu, 1 Jan 1970 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102166565.asp A Maremma Sheepdog is highly intelligent and a very active dog. It spent many happy years as a breed that guarded livestock along the mountains in Europe. It is an outstanding livestock guardian and revels in its role. It’s thick coat makes it especially suited for the outdoors and it is quick to make its own decisions when guarding the sheep. These same instincts and breeding make it a dog that really doesn’t do well as a housedog. It prefers to be busy and expects a good deal of exercise to grow well and be healthy. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102166565.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102166565.asp> Thu, 1 Jan 1970 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102168065.asp Bred to be a working dog, the Miniature Australian Shepherd is an athletic, agile dog that loves to be active. To that end, the Miniature Australian Shepherd excels in the sport of Dog Agility. Possibly the most recognizable sport for dogs, Dog Agility competitions are often shown on cable television. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102168065.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102168065.asp> Thu, 1 Jan 1970 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102168465.asp Bred to be a working dog, the Miniature Australian Shepherd is an athletic, agile dog that loves to be active. To that end, the Miniature Australian Shepherd excels in the sport of Dog Agility. Possibly the most recognizable sport for dogs, Dog Agility competitions are often shown on cable television. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102168465.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102168465.asp> Thu, 1 Jan 1970 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102169065.asp The Otterhound, referred to as a scent dog, was interbred with bloodhounds and Southern hounds for the specific purpose of tracking Otters in the United Kingdom. Though no longer used for this purpose, Otterhounds still enjoy hunting as an activity and hunt Mink in the U.K. They serve as a means to rid the farmer of these dreaded pests. In North America, they are used to hunt raccoons, bears and even mountain lions. Of course since these scent hounds love hunting they would no doubt love agility training. Agility training originated in England around 1978; this sport for canines was borrowed from horse steeplechases, a jumping activity. Today this sport is very popular and is growing in leaps and bounds. Both large and small dogs can participate in the fun. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102169065.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102169065.asp> Thu, 1 Jan 1970 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102169565.asp The Polish Owczarek Nizinny, sometimes known as PONS, is a herding dog native to Poland. There it worked with larger more aggressive dogs to herd sheep. It was bred to be intelligent and fairly independent so as to make good decisions on how to help herd the livestock for them to avoid dangerous obstacles and continue towards their goal. It is a strong-willed dog, but it is also very affectionate and caring. This combination of temperament of independence and a desire to please can mean that your Polish Owczarek Nizinny appears trained one minute, and completely ignores its training the next. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102169565.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102169565.asp> Thu, 1 Jan 1970 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102170165.asp A content and dutiful PON is a joy, but a PON that is not kept busy and has no sense of purpose can get in a lot of trouble. This dog was bred to be in charge of a flock and so it naturally wants to have a certain level of exercise and be considered an important part of the family unit. If you do not exercise the dog enough or give it something to do, like watching a child, it can easily become stubborn and willful and completely mischeivious. This dog is very intelligent and also seeks to be challenged in the types of tasks you set for it. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102170165.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102170165.asp> Thu, 1 Jan 1970 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102170665.asp The Polish Owczarek Nizinny (PON) is a very agile and active dog. It prefers households where it can be in the midst of all the activities and even take part in them. This comes from its long history of helping humans in their shepherding activities where it played a key role of guiding the sheep away from danger and moving the flock along. For a PON to be happy, it has to have a regular schedule of activity, fun, and play at all times. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102170665.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102170665.asp> Thu, 1 Jan 1970 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102171765.asp Not many breeds have to deal with the stigma that surrounds the American Staffordshire Terrier. These dogs are put into a vague category called pit bull dogs and stories abound of their extremely aggressive behavior. As with many stories, however, it seems as if the media is involved in hyping up the Amstaffs aggressive tendencies based on a few isolated instances that were the result of very poor dog ownership practices. But is the Amstaff really that aggressive? http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102171765.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102171765.asp> Thu, 1 Jan 1970 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102172365.asp Unfortunately, the media has singled out dogs classified under the category of “pit bull”, like the American Staffordshire Terrier, as being highly aggressive and dangerous. To fuel the media hype regarding these breeds, extraordinary claims have arisen regarding the ferocity of pit bulls, their terrible bite and their supernatural jaw strength. But are these claims real? Should people believe all they read in the news or hear on television regarding the inherently evil nature of these dogs? Incredibly, many of the claims that center around pit bulls amount to not much more than urban myths, perhaps as a justification as to why certain dogs do bad things; rather than put the blame on the owner or on the humans that bred the dog, the dog was singled out and has now become the convenient scapegoat. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102172365.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102172365.asp> Thu, 1 Jan 1970 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102172465.asp Communities are justifiably concerned with the amount of dog attacks that are registered each year, also because they know that just as many go unregistered. In order to protect people, local and national governments have taken to instituting breed-specific legislation, which can include policies or laws that only affect one or more specific breeds. Often, the legislation deals with restrictions concerning both owning and breeding targeted breeds. The dogs that have most been under attack with this breed specific legislation are the pit bull type dogs, which at times include the American Staffordshire Terrier. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102172465.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102172465.asp> Thu, 1 Jan 1970 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102174165.asp Boxers are one of the more popular dog breeds in existence today, and a large part of this popularity centers around the fact that in addition to being loyal and loving pets they are also excellent show dogs. Many people don’t realize it, but the breed was actually introduced to the world during a dog show in the 1890’s and has been a staple of the show dog world ever since. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102174165.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102174165.asp> Thu, 1 Jan 1970 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102175365.asp The Briard is a good consideration for many homes. It has the size, shape and temperament for just about any home. Yet, there are some key factors to consider when selecting this dog to bring home. Alternatively, if you are currently the owner of this magnificent animal, you may need a bit of help with improving his obedience. The good news is that this breed of dog is one that is willing and capable of learning what you want and need him to. He's a willing participant assuming that you are willing to dedicate time and patience with the learning process. Understanding the Briard is the first step in training him correctly. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102175365.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102175365.asp> Thu, 1 Jan 1970 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102176465.asp The Briquet Griffon Vendeen offers owners a very unique and useful type of dog. These dogs are designed to be hunters and to help their masters in located and catching their prey, whatever it may be that their master wants them to retrieve. They are not aggressive dogs. They are not fearful or shy dogs either. They are devoted, hard working dogs known by their temperament and their ability to obey. They are also well known for their hunting skills. The hunter that is looking for a dependable companion on his hunting trips should take consideration of the Briquet Griffon Vendeen for all that it can offer. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102176465.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102176465.asp> Thu, 1 Jan 1970 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102176765.asp There are many things to consider about the Briquet Griffon Vendeen including his wonderful heritage, his decisive temperament and his unique abilities to be himself. Yet, above all of this, it can be important to keep him mentally sharp. These dogs are intelligent, decisive and they need to be interacted with if they are to keep that mental edge throughout their lives. They are willing to work for you, to be your companion and want to be an active part of the family. To keep them happy and an effective member of the family, it is up to his owners to keep him mentally capable. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102176765.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102176765.asp> Thu, 1 Jan 1970 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102177065.asp The Briquet Griffon Vendeen is not your typical dog. While he is interested in keeping his master happy, it is more important to him that he gets his way. This can often leave owners a bit overwhelmed when it comes to training the dog. It is unlikely that he will do perfectly for you every time you give him a command. Yet, he is likely to be respectful and through repetition and positive reinforcement, he will do very well for you. Training your Briquet Griffon Vendeen means you will be dedicating time and patience to the process. Doing so will help you to create a dog that is happy and healthy, making the process well worth it. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102177065.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102177065.asp> Mon, 22 Oct 2007 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102178365.asp Territoriality is a natural characteristic in dogs, one which hails all the way from their wolf ancestors. In the wild, wolves would patrol their territories to collect vital information, such as the availability of food and water and the presence of intruding animals; intruding animals were a serious threat, given the fact that they could both compete for resources and harm young. Everyone knows that wolves, and dogs, mark their territory by urinating or defecating in certain areas. Your dog considers his home and the area surrounding his home as his territory; he will also consider the places you visit when taking him on a walk as his territory. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102178365.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102178365.asp> Mon, 22 Oct 2007 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102178765.asp Welsh Terriers were bred for a very specific job: to hunt and kill vermin that dared disturb their master's farm. As with many dog occupations, nowadays, there isn't much call for a Welsh Terrier to dispatch vermin, especially in suburban or urban areas. What's more, there are quite a number of animal rights organizations that have been successful at having terrier jobs regulated or even banned. So what's a Welsh Terrier to do with all those pent up instincts for chasing little critters? Get involved in Earthdog tests! http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102178765.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102178765.asp> Mon, 22 Oct 2007 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102179265.asp The Welsh Terrier was developed in Wales in order to hunt badger, fox, otter and other vermin. Like all terriers, he had to have gameness in order to follow these animals into their burrows and fight them when they turned around to attack the dog. Indeed, the majority of these creatures would engage in a fight to the death with dogs that entered their burrows, as they often felt cornered, with no way out but to fight. Terriers not only had to be brave enough to participate in the fight, but also have the tenacity to continue fighting even if they were badly wounded; any sign of weakness and the Welshie was not coming out of the den alive. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102179265.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102179265.asp> Mon, 22 Oct 2007 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102180065.asp Dog breeds vary in their tendency towards separation anxiety. The Sussex Spaniel is a breed that is predisposed to suffer separation anxiety more than other breeds. This may be due to its role as being part of the hunt and a pack of dogs. When it is separated from this pack, it tends to bond with its owner. If the owner doesn't understand the dog's needs, it can lead to the dog displaying negative behavior like destructive chewing and barking. It will even howl when it is distressed. Some dogs with soil the house, if left alone too long. This might be because they missed their outing or because they are angry or upset. Don't discipline the dog for these mistakes as it is acting out of distress that you were gone. Instead, try to develop a routine that is comforting to the dog while allowing you some time away from the home for short periods. The best type of environment for a Sussex Spaniel is one where there is someone home all day long. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102180065.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102180065.asp> Thu, 1 Jan 1970 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102181165.asp Any current or would be Chinese Crested dog trainer, regardless of whether they’re training a Hairless or Powderpuff, needs to remember one thing above all: Consistency, consistency, consistency. The breed is known as gentle, sensitive and intelligent, and to instill faith and obedience in the dog, the trainer must, absolutely, be consistent. In training the Chinese Crested, something that results in punishment must always result in punishment, something that results in reward must always result in reward. The breed’s unusual sensitivity absolutely insisist upon a gentle owner who will provide a dependable atmosphere, rather than an erratic schedule of inconsistent treatment or a constantly changing environment. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102181165.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102181165.asp> Mon, 22 Oct 2007 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102181565.asp The Sussex Spaniel is more comfortable being an outside dog than an indoor dog. You can have one as a family pet, but it does have issues with house training. Many people quickly realize that house training a Sussex Spaniel will take patience and time. Even after the dog seems trained, it can still have occasional accidents due to temperamental stress or pure obstinacy. The time to start house training your dog, is the minute you bring it home. You can house train a Sussex Spaniel by crate training it. Just do not leave it alone for too long in a crate. It has a need for companionship and can suffer separation anxiety. It also needs a good deal of exercise. This is not a dog that can spend the entire day in a crate. As a puppy, it might not be as hard for it to remain in the crate until it is time to go, but as an older dog this would be very hard on the dog. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102181565.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102181565.asp> Thu, 1 Jan 1970 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102184265.asp Even with their calm nature, you want to make sure you take the time for obedience training for your Dandie. Because each dog is different, you want to make certain that you train your dog to suit your lifestyle. Since they can sometimes be wary of strangers, you want to make sure you teach them how to react to strangers, especially if you tend to have a great many visitors. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102184265.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102184265.asp> Thu, 1 Jan 1970 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102184465.asp Because of the small size of a Dandie Dinmont Terrier, they are quite capable of being successful in underground earthdog testing. The tests are conducted as non-competitive trials in order to assess the hunting ability of an individual dog during the performance of an underground hunting expedition. Owners don't have to be concerned with their dogs being in danger as the encounters are controlled. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102184465.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102184465.asp> Mon, 22 Oct 2007 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102185465.asp When you think of the Rottweiler, more often than not you tend to picture a fierce, confident guarding dog. A chunky, strong and often aggressive breed, the breed has certainly been given a lot of bad press over the last few years. However is this negative image really deserved or is there more to the Rottweiler than meets the eye? Protecting the Family Contrary to popular belief, the Rottweiler is not actually as bad as what people make out. Yes it has the ability to be overly aggressive and to be a superb guarding dog, but on the other hand the Rottweiler can also make an excellent pet. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102185465.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102185465.asp> Thu, 1 Jan 1970 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102186365.asp Sit. Stay. Fetch. English Springer Spaniels can and will learn these commands. Owners just need to learn proper training techniques. In general, the breed is obedient and eager to please. They love praise and want to make their owners happy. It is important to begin training early on. Training classes are a good idea. Before enrolling your dog, make sure you are comfortable with the trainer’s methods. Most trainers use positive reinforcement. This is the best way to get an English Springer Spaniel to perform as desired. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102186365.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102186365.asp> Thu, 1 Jan 1970 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102188665.asp Finnish Spitz are an active and lively breed of dogs and can be trained to be the perfect pets as well hunting dogs. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102188665.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102188665.asp> Tue, 23 Oct 2007 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102189165.asp The only commonly reported problem with the Papillon, in regards to temperament, would be the breed's slight tendency towards timidness. In training, this timidness can make housebreaking a bit of a challenge, though far from an insurmountable one. Of course, unless this is countered early on, the Papillon will sometimes opt to mark spots of the house as their personal territory. This is definitely a setback, as the breed really is not capable of living a healthy life as an outside dog and absolutely must be housebroken for the sake of the owner's peace of mind. Luckily, this is the only common major hurdle in training the breed and most trainers will be able to stop the problem in its tracks without too much extra hassle. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102189165.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102189165.asp> Thu, 1 Jan 1970 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102192665.asp Many hunting dogs have taken on multiple roles in the lives of their owners and one of the more important roles is that of guardian. The natural hunting instinct transfers quite well into the realm of the watchdog and German Shorthaired Pointers are no different. It also helps that the hunting dog is bred to work closely and develop a tight, long-lasting bond with his owner and family. This spurs the dog to instinctly protect his humans, though thankfully most hunting dogs do not (or at least should not) display direct, active aggression towards humans. Another point in favor of the hunting dog is its intelligence; with a little skillful training, these dogs can be taught how to be effective watchdogs rather than barking unnecessarily all day at the slightest of sounds. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102192665.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102192665.asp> Thu, 1 Jan 1970 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102193165.asp While people today are used to the sight of a dog performing a number of different tasks, like watchdog, therapy dog, companion and participant in a number of organized canine competitions, among other things, dogs were not always seen as such versatile animals. This was especially true regarding the hunting dog, a prized possession for pre-19th century nobility, who counted their dogs among their vast wealth. Indeed, in Europe hunting became viewed as a sport only for the wealthy, who essentially owned all the land and so were the only ones to have the right to hunt on any given patch of land. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102193165.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102193165.asp> Thu, 1 Jan 1970 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102193765.asp Great Swiss Mountain Dogs are among the breeds recognized as being receptive to obedience training. They are great family pets as well as being good guard dogs, search and rescue animals, therapy dogs, and valuable work and draft animals. Every single one of these fields demonstrate much more clearly than anything else could, the fact that Great Swiss Mountain Dogs are easily trained and obedient. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102193765.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102193765.asp> Thu, 1 Jan 1970 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102193965.asp Great Swiss Mountain Dogs have many attributes that make them a tremendous asset as tracking dogs. One of the many stories attributed to a Great Swiss Mountain Dog was one in which a farmer loaded up his cart with his wares and was about to go on his regular route to make deliveries, when he began to feel ill and went inside to rest, leaving his dog hitched to the cart. After having been ill that whole day, when he went outside that evening, he found his cart empty, and later was able to ascertain that his dog had realized it was time to make deliveries, had pulled the wagon the regular route, and allowed the farmer's customers to take their orders from the wagon. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102193965.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102193965.asp> Thu, 1 Jan 1970 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102194265.asp Though the rarity of the breed of Great Swiss Mountain Dogs makes it difficult to gain great quantities of data on the breed, the consistency and quality of the breed's work as therapy dogs leads one to believe that this breed of dog is very adept as therapy dogs. One facet of the personality of the breed of Great Swiss Mountain Dog that makes them valuable as therapy dogs is their very highly trainable natures. Being high energy animals whose tendency is to be dominant, active, and inquisitive, one might think they were not readily trainable, but the opposite appears to be true. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102194265.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102194265.asp> Thu, 1 Jan 1970 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102194565.asp From classic work dogs used as draft animals, farm laborers, search and rescue animals, and therapy dogs, to their natural ability as guard dogs and their innate tendency to be loyal and reliable family pets, Great Swiss Mountain Dogs are among the most versatile members of the canine family. This rare, but ancient breed of dog is thought to be responsible for the genetics in several more prominent breeds of dog such as the Mastiff and Rottweiler, and though this breed of dog is much more rare at the present time, they have been used as work animals for generation upon generation. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102194565.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102194565.asp> Tue, 23 Oct 2007 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102194765.asp When properly cared for, the Neapolitan Mastiff is a docile and intelligent breed. These are bonus characteristics for a dog whose brute strength could otherwise be very dangerous. As the Neo is a unique type of canine, its owner should be of a distinctive character as well. Level headed and with a good sense of self, the responsible owner is one that knows he or she will always need to be one step ahead of their dog. This, along with good training and socialization, is what creates a happy, healthy environment for the Neapolitan Mastiff. It is those who venture into this breed without any forethought that will likely end up becoming overwhelmed and intimidated; and the Neo, in search of boundaries that make it feel safe, will likely end up running the show. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102194765.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102194765.asp> Thu, 1 Jan 1970 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102196065.asp Irish Terriers can make wonderful pets for singles or families. They are intelligent dogs that are loyal and affectionate with their owners and that make fun and playful companions. However, Irish Terriers require more obedience training than some other breeds. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102196065.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102196065.asp> Thu, 1 Jan 1970 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102196365.asp Irish terriers were bred to be hunting dogs, and their instincts tell them to chase things, and to dig their heels in and fight when faced with conflict. Terriers in general have a tendency to have a bit of a “bossy” nature and are quite happy to be in charge of the household. Let run amuck, a terrier can be a nightmare of a pet. Irish terriers, in particular, can be very stubborn and have been known to be very aggressive with small animals like cats. They have even been known to be aggressive with dogs double their size and even with children who might inadvertently step on a paw or play a bit rough. They have a tendency to flee when left off leash and are prone to chasing cars. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102196365.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102196365.asp> Thu, 1 Jan 1970 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102196765.asp Most Irish terrier owners in the United States own their dogs as companions. Irish terriers make great watchdogs and good family pets, so long as they are properly trained. However, the Irish terrier was bred to be a small hunting dog, and is still one of the best breeds you can use for hunting small prey. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102196765.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102196765.asp> Tue, 23 Oct 2007 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102197065.asp Many times when people get a Kerry Blue Terrier for the first time, they are not aware of all the different things that go on while they are in a competition for show. In fact, many times they do not know what is going to happen until it happens. One of the main events that many people are not in favor of is sparring. In fact, many people think that having two Kerry Blue Terriers sparring with one another is down right mean. However, that is one way for the judges to determine which is the best dog overall. Many times when people are asked to spar their dogs, they are not sure of what it even is. Sparring is when the judges put two or possibly three different dogs into the center of the show ring so that they have to "look at each other". It is the judges as well as the handlers that assure that it is safe. In fact, if the dogs are in the show ring a lot they can differentiate between a competitive challenge and something that is for real. Either way, in most cases, it is best for the handlers to keep themselves at a safe distant just in case. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102197065.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102197065.asp> Tue, 23 Oct 2007 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102197165.asp Many times when people get a Kerry Blue Terrier, they are not sure of how they are or will be with other animals. However, the way they act is usually seen by the way they are raised. Although many times it is seen in their bloodlines, as well. As many people raise their Kerry Blue Terrier they are always hopeful that he/she will grow up to be a great disciplined dog. However, for some people that is not possible. In fact, many people have problems with their dog getting along with other dogs or animals. In fact, the Kerry Blue Terrier is known to be very head strong as well as high spirited; however, they are also can be down right mean. In some cases, the Kerry Blue Terrier has even killed other animals. In fact, in the earlier years, while the Kerry Blue Terrier was in competitive dog shows they were required to pass certain "game" tests; which were known as the Teastas Mor. Before they were passed for that certification they were expected to catch rabbits or to be able to bring a badger to bay. Back then and even today, their nicknames are the "Blue Devils". http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102197165.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102197165.asp> Wed, 14 Nov 2007 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102199465.asp The Italian Greyhound is a lovable and very playful dog. They love romping around with the family and the kids. They participate in many events for shows and competitions, doing well in lure coursing, conformation, obedience and agility. They particularly enjoy competing in agility events. When they are not working, they love relaxing in as many ways as they can. The Italian Greyhound loves lounging on the couch or in bed with their master. If bed is where they choose to be, you will most likely find them under the covers cuddling next to you. They will wait patiently for you to pick the covers up so they can crawl underneath them, but if you don't, they will figure out how to sneak under by themselves. If it's not yet bedtime, you'll probably find them lying on the couch wherever their people are. As much as they love lying in bed under the covers, they are not the type of dog to go there on their own if you are on the couch. They love being where you are. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102199465.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102199465.asp> Wed, 14 Nov 2007 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102199865.asp It is commonly believed that somewhere in the history of the Bedlington Terrier, the Greyhound and the Whippet make their appearance. This is based largely on the breed's arched back, a trademark characteristic seen in the two sighthounds. The only difference is in the Bedlingtons front legs that are perfectly developed for turning on a dime at high speeds. This has made the Bedlington an absolute ideal choice for agility course training and field trials. On top of their physical aptness for the activity, it provides the perfect amount of mental stimulations that keeps the Bedlington at its best. Working breed dogs are happiest when they are given a specific job to do and the Bedlington is no different. Along with agility training, years as a baiting dog have made the Bedlington a perfect candidate for earth dog competitions. Earth dog competitions are events that put a dog's basic skills and instincts to the test. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102199865.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102199865.asp> Wed, 14 Nov 2007 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102201965.asp Getting an Italian Greyhound is a big decision, just as it would be with any dog. Before you decide to get this dog, however, you should be prepared to devote a lot of time to your dog as the Italian Greyhound is a very demanding, sometimes spoiled dog, that loves to be the center or your attention at all times. After deciding on the Italian Greyhound as your breed of choice, your next decision will be if you want to give a home to an older dog or start with a puppy. If you are unfamiliar with this particular breed, I suggest you get a small puppy. Although puppies are a real handful, they are easier to train and work with when their little than an older dog that has some habits already set in their personality. This is especially true with this breed, which is already known for being stubborn. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102201965.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102201965.asp> Thu, 1 Jan 1970 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102204165.asp The American Kennel Club set the standards by which other kennel clubs could be founded the CKC, for example. But unlike so many other clubs, the American Kennel Club has a long and complicated history of coming together into the organization it is today. Founded in the 1884 as a sort of conglomeration of smaller United States kennel clubs, the AKC began its mission of creating standardized guidelines for 157 breeds and partially recognizing 4 other breeds. With some of the looser standards among breeding and registry organizations, it clear to see why its popularity and its reach have continued to grow. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102204165.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102204165.asp> Wed, 14 Nov 2007 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102204265.asp The Laekenois is a breed that can make an excellent family dog as long as a few special considerations are kept in mind. Whether male or female, the breed's history as a working dog has given them a nature that is self reliant. This has also resulted in a temperament that at times can be rather dominant. Compromise and an understanding owner is the name of the game with this breed. Though males and females are extremely loyal, females exhibit just a spot more of a mothering instinct; however, both males and females will carry a strong sense of duty to protect a household and all its members from harm. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102204265.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102204265.asp> Thu, 1 Jan 1970 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102204365.asp The Australian National Kennel Club is a kennel club that's fairly new in the dog breeding and showing world. But while they might be new in structure, they have made up for it in the spread of the organization in Australia. By encompassing the Australian Capital Territory Canine Association Inc., Royal New South Wales Canine Council Ltd., the North Australian Canine Association Inc., the Canine Control Council (Queensland), the South Australia Canine Association Inc., the Tasmanian Canine Association Inc., the Victorian Canine Association Inc., and the Canine Association of Western Australia Inc., all of the major portions of Australia are covered. But what does this mean to dog owners and breeders? http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102204365.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102204365.asp> Wed, 14 Nov 2007 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102207165.asp As you bring your new puppy home, one of the first things that you will want to do is train your dog to go where you want him to. The good news is that the Tibetan Terrier is one of the best dogs to train because they are very intelligent and willing to please you. The bad news is that they often take a bit extra time learning housebreaking to a full level. Yet, you can absolutely benefit from working with your dog carefully and with skill as they will ultimately provide you with the best results this way. Determine which the best way to house train your dog is. Two methods that are most likely to be successful with this dog is crate training and paper training. In either method, it will be very important to be consistent with that procedure. Use it daily and be sure to do the same thing every day so that your puppy with catch on what you want him to do. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102207165.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102207165.asp> Sat, 26 Jan 2008 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102208865.asp There are many different responsibilities to being a good dog owner. One of the most important things that any potential dog owner can do is to honestly look at these responsibilities, and to make a commitment to their new dog or puppy to be the best possible owner they can be. Being a responsible dog owner not only means taking care of your dog physically, but it also means keeping them safe, ensuring they become good pets to have around others, as well as keeping the dog managed, trained and enclosed within your property boundaries. By examining the responsibilities to owning a dog, it is easy to see if owning a dog is the right pet decision for you and your family. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102208865.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102208865.asp> Tue, 5 Feb 2008 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102209965.asp Once the puppies are born, it is amazing how fast they grow and mature. It is not uncommon for puppies to change behaviors almost overnight, so clearly understanding the various stages that puppies of all breeds go through is important. As a general rule, smaller breeds of dogs will mature more quickly than larger breeds. Giant breeds of dogs often take almost twice the time to fully mature (both physically and emotionally) than the small breeds. There are also some breeds that stay very playful and puppyish even into their senior years. The following information is a general guideline to the specific and identifiable stages of puppy development, but keep in mind the actual ages they occur in may vary from the numbers listed here. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102209965.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102209965.asp> Sun, 17 Feb 2008 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102211265.asp It is important with all breeds of dogs to start training as early as possible. With some breeds, particularly those dogs that tend to be dominant, this is absolutely essential to prevent aggression and stubborn or dominant behavior during training. Starting your puppy off with positive reinforcement and training in very natural type situations is the very best option. There are several key factors to consider when training the puppy. The first is that they are just like babies and toddlers and they will need lots of practice as well as lots of opportunities to learn a new behavior or to respond to a command. Puppies do not learn by harsh punishments such as spankings and shaking, and they certainly don't do well with people yelling at them. Puppies that are treated harshly either by physical reprimands or harsh verbal correction will either become very aggressive, defiant adults or will become very timid, shy and fearful of people, neither option being desirable. The best possible option for puppy training in the first few months is to use positive reinforcement for a job well done as well as use a simple "no" and ignoring for correction. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102211265.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102211265.asp> Mon, 18 Feb 2008 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102211365.asp Crate training is one of the most effective and positive methods of housetraining a puppy, but it does take planning, attention and involvement of the owner. Crate training uses a puppy's natural cleanliness as well as the lessons that the mother taught the puppy regarding moving away from the den or living area to go to the bathroom. Crate training makes the crate the den or home of the puppy, which he or she will try very hard not to mess up by soiling. Getting the right sized crate Getting the right sized crate is important for several reasons. The crate must be large enough to accommodate the puppy without being too small or uncomfortable for the dog. However, if the crate is too large for the puppy he or she may decide to make one area the living space and one area the bathroom, which is very counterproductive. Since owners may not want to buy more than one crate, especially for medium or large sized dogs, consider getting a crate with a sliding inside panel or divider that can be used to make the crate floor area smaller when the puppy is small and then can be moved down to the end of the crate as the puppy grows. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102211365.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102211365.asp> Tue, 19 Feb 2008 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102211465.asp In some situations and with different types of toy and small dogs it may not be possible to train the dog or puppy to go outdoors to toilet. In these situations it may be possible to potty train the puppy using an alternative method such as litter training, paper training or pad training the puppy. Many people that live in apartments or need to leave the dogs alone in the house during the day or night will train their dogs and puppies to use specific areas of the house as toilet areas. Most toy dogs are also trained to use specific areas for a toilet area, especially in very cold climates where going outdoors in the winter may not be an option for certain breeds. This training is most easily accomplished when the puppy is very small, as once they get older and are fully housetrained it will be very difficult to get the older puppy or dog to use the toilet in the house. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102211465.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102211465.asp> Wed, 20 Feb 2008 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102211565.asp One of the first things that owners want to be able to do is to start taking their puppy out with them on walks and to new places. In order to do so safely it is important to get the puppy leash or lead trained as soon as possible, although puppies will naturally stay fairly close to people when outside of their normal environment. Remember however that puppies will chase and just act silly and should never be taken out of the safe yard area without being on a leash or lead. The first component of leash training is to get the puppy used to all the equipment. Start by finding a good, properly sized collar. If the puppy is going to wear the collar all the time it is essential to get a break away collar that will easily come apart if it gets hooked on something and traps the puppy. A break away collar will snap open, preventing the puppy from possibly injuring itself or even being strangled. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102211565.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102211565.asp> Sun, 24 Feb 2008 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102212065.asp Clicker training is a way for trainers to quickly, really virtually instantaneously, provide your puppy or dog with the sound needed for them to understand that they are doing the correct thing. Clickers are small plastic and metal devices that are carried in the trainer's hand and, when pressed, make a "clicking" sound that the dog sees as a positive reinforcement cue. The use of the clicker is based on what is known as "operant conditioning". This means that the puppy learns to complete a behavior that they would not normally do without positive reinforcement. In other words the repetition of the act paired with the reinforcement of the clicker and other rewards encourages the puppy to learn that to get the reward they must keep repeating the behavior when given the command. This is very similar to training a toddler when Mom or Dad gives a treat for putting away their toys or listening to instructions. With the infant Mom and Dad give verbal reminders and cues, the clicker simply replaces those verbal cues with an easy to recognize sound. The clicker is used to immediately let the dog know that they are on the right track, then the reinforcement of a treat or lots of praise and attention follows when they have completed the task. Puppies learn that by hearing the clicker and continuing on with the behavior a reward of praise, attention or a small treat will follow. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102212065.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102212065.asp> Mon, 25 Feb 2008 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102212265.asp For puppies that are somewhat stubborn, headstrong or have picked up some lazy or bad habits, NILF training is just the technique to get them back on track. For most dominant puppies or breeds that are dominant by nature NILF is also an ideal way to start training and work through training without having to deal with many of the dominance and non-compliance issues you may see in other less task oriented type training methods. NILF, which stands for "Nothing In Life Is Free" is a method of training that requires the dog to perform as per the owner's requests in order to get what the dog wants. This is not a punishment based training method and as a matter of fact NILF training requires no punishment at all, simply a willingness for the trainer to never give in or accept poor or difficult behavior on the part of the puppy. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102212265.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102212265.asp> Tue, 26 Feb 2008 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102212365.asp It is important to teach your puppy and young dog some basic commands that are used in obedience training or just to have a well-behaved dog no matter where you may choose to take your dog. These commands are simple and are not difficult for most puppies and dogs to learn provided they are given lots of practice and time to learn. Remember that each dog, regardless of breed characteristics, is an individual. Each dog or puppy will learn some things more quickly than others, and some dogs, regardless of what the breed is known for, may just not have the characteristic or ability. Keeping this in mind will help owners from being frustrated with their puppy or dog. Look for the things that your dog is good at or excels at and don't expect them to learn every other trick that you have seen a dog of their breed do. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102212365.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102212365.asp> Wed, 27 Feb 2008 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102212465.asp Most owners like to have a few "nifty tricks" for their dog or puppy to do on command. It is important to get the obedience basics down first, but then it is a great idea to keep working with your dog to build up a repertoire of extra tricks to keep training exercises fun. There are endless additional tricks and routines that dog's can learn depending on their ability and interest. Matching the type of tricks you teach your dog with their characteristics and temperament is a sure way of making the trick easy and simple for the dog to learn. For example, teaching a terrier breed to bark on command (speak) is relatively simple since they tend to be very vocal dogs anyway. They are also very athletic and can easily be taught to sit up (beg) to get a treat. A large breed such as Great Dane has a very hard time balancing in the sit up position so this trick is likely not a good choice for this type of dog. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102212465.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102212465.asp> Thu, 28 Feb 2008 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102212565.asp Breaking bad habits that a dog has learned is often much more challenging than the initial training. This is because not only does the dog have to learn what you want, but they have to unlearn what they have previously done. Usually dogs learn bad habits because owners are too lazy or too inattentive to the behavior of the dog to notice that they are no longer following commands. Bad behavior is effective for the dog or they wouldn't continue to use it. A good example of a bad habit that is problematic for most owners is a dog that doesn't come back when it is called. What typically happens is that the owner simply doesn't allow the dog off leash so they don't have to deal with the problem. While this is a short-term solution it rarely works indefinitely, especially if the dog gets out of the yard or away from the owner by accident. Since it has had no practice or training in coming back when off-leash, it simply takes the opportunity to run wild and free, reinforcing all the bad behavior that caused the owner to use the leash in the first place. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102212565.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102212565.asp> Sat, 1 Mar 2008 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102212765.asp Agility training is a wonderful opportunity for dogs and owners to learn how to work together, get lots of exercise, and become more in synch with each other. Dogs that compete in agility events must be intelligent, athletic as well as very attentive to the handler. They must be able to block out distractions such as crowd noise, other dogs and even movement and activity on the sidelines. Agility training involves teaching a dog to go through a set of obstacles in a specific sequence within a set time frame. Agility competitions were first exhibited at the Cruft's International Dog Show in Birmingham, England in 1979 and continues to be one of the most popular events from a spectator and competitor point of view. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102212765.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102212765.asp> Sun, 2 Mar 2008 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102212865.asp There are many different times that changing a routine or training program may become important for both the owner and the dog. Lots of breeds, especially those breeds that are naturally very intelligent, somewhat dominant or even very headstrong need to frequent changes in routine to prevent them from becoming bored, non-compliant or simply disobedient. Usually these behaviors are a result of the dogs not being mentally challenged and showing their frustration to their owners. Breeds that typically use these types of behaviors can include Jack Russell Terriers, Poodles, Corgis, Schnauzers, Border Collies, Australian Shepherds, Akitas and other breeds that are known for high intelligence. These breeds love a challenge and if they aren't finding ways to use their mental energy productively, they will find ways to use it destructively. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102212865.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102212865.asp> Mon, 3 Mar 2008 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102212965.asp Obedience training is one of the most popular of all the various dog and puppy classes offered in most areas. Obedience training helps both dogs and owners work with each other as well as increase the bond between the people in the family and the dogs. Many people mistakenly believe that obedience training is an attempt to break a dog's spirit or to make them submissive, when in fact the effect of obedience training is to allow the dog and owner to work better together, ultimately allowing the dog more freedom. Obedience training will help prevent or minimize behavior problems in puppies or dogs before they ever get started. Many breeders, vets and animal behaviouralists recommend that puppies get started in obedience classes as soon as possible after completing their final set of puppy vaccinations, typically just after 12 weeks of age. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102212965.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102212965.asp> Tue, 4 Mar 2008 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102213065.asp Training a dog with hand signals works well for some breeds and dogs, but not as well for other dogs and breeds. It is important to keep things in mind if you have a toy breed or a breed that has partially obstructed vision due to long hair on the face or even a dog that has poor eyesight, hand signals may be more challenging to teach. Dogs that are highly distracted and puppies that are not able to focus will usually need additional training before starting hand signal training. Some breeds are very easy to teach hand signals and these typically include the gun dogs and herding breeds that have a natural instinct for a particular type of work or activity as well as an ability to understand hand signals and respond. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102213065.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102213065.asp> Mon, 5 Mar 2007 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102213165.asp Each type or breed of dog has been bred and developed to fill a particular niche for humans. This may be a very general job such as a companion dog's role, or it may be very practical such as a breed that has been developed as a gun or hunting dog, as a working dog or as a herding or flock guardian. Each breed, regardless of its size or abilities, has a special type of event or competition that they could, with work and practice, start to compete in. Some competitions will require that the dog be a registered purebred, while other events, typically the hunting and working trials, will be open to all dogs regardless of registry or lineage. Other events may be sponsored completely by one breed association and may be restricted to dogs that are registered through that group, club or association. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102213165.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102213165.asp> Fri, 7 Mar 2008 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102213365.asp Having a well-behaved dog in a vehicle makes traveling with the dog simple, easy and enjoyable for everyone. Unfortunately many dogs are so poorly behaved in vehicles that they actually become safety hazards for the driver, resulting in the dog having to stay home of further expeditions and trips. This doesn't need to occur with a bit of simple training that will teach your dog how to behave in the car. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102213365.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102213365.asp> Sat, 8 Mar 2008 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102213465.asp Teaching advanced level dog tricks is not an exact science, rather it is a way of the owner looking at the dog's natural behaviors and being able to train the dog to use these behaviors on command. For example, if you have a dog that naturally want to sit up and beg or even walk on their hind legs, start working with the dog to do this activity, resulting in an amazing "trick" that your dog will now do on command, but in fact was doing already just without the command. Good dog trainers and those that are able to teach advanced level tricks make the tricks fit the dog, not necessarily the dog fit the tricks. They will also take into consideration the intelligence and trainability of the individual dog as well as the breed. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102213465.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102213465.asp> Wed, 13 Feb 2008 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102213965.asp All breeds of dogs have the potential to become aggressive if not socialized, properly trained or treated appropriately either as puppies or as adult dogs. Some breeds are also more prone to aggression than others and in particular more prone to being dog aggressive. Dog aggression is defined as a particular dog being violent or vicious to other dogs, without provocation nor while in defense of its family or property. A dog that is trained as a guard dog is not aggressive, it is defensive and protective, but does not attack unless someone or something is invading its area or territory. Guard dogs are trained to bark and take an aggressive stance before actually moving to the attack as a last resort. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102213965.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102213965.asp>