Sunday, February 15, 2009

Cutest Dog Breeds

Dachshunds can be seen as well socialized pets and can easily adapt to a loving home. This cute dog and other similar breeds usually look good in dresses, vests and skirts. Sweaters not only make them smart looking but also protect them from cold weather. They can usually blend with other pets, but again, without the proper discipline from their master, they can get depressed, temperamental and can bite easily. At times, they do not want to be handled. It is best to get an advice about caring for your pets from someone who is experienced. Just like pigs, many dogs give birth to several puppies in one pregnancy. The result is overpopulation of puppies and if no one wants to take care of them then it leads to abandonment.

The nose and the nails of black dachshunds are black; for chocolate brown and other dog colors, they are dark brown. Dachshunds bark loud and even if they are small they are good watch dogs with a powerful bark. This breed has a habit of digging dirt and they can be a little aggressive to strangers.

Wirehair dachshund’s eyes are almond-shaped, big and with dark rims. Their ears are set on top of their head, quite round and slightly long. Their eyes are dark red, brown or black which are shaped like an egg and always has a friendly expression. The color of an American dachshund has darker spots and they may vary depending on their locations. There are dark spots in black dogs and tan dapples and chocolate spots in tan dogs. Wirehair miniature dachshunds are more likely to be livelier. Smaller dachshunds are more reserved than the standard breed.

Another cute dog breed is Chihuahua. It is the smallest breed of dog in the world and they have a long and rich history. It was discovered in Chihuahua Mexico near Texas and New Mexico and it is where the name Chihuahua came from. It originated from the early Techichi owned by the Toltec near Mexico City. Afterwards, the breed was added to the American Kennel Club in 1904. It was officially described by this Club to have the qualities of a terrier like being alert, agile and having a good bearing.

The old Chihuahua was bigger than the new breed. One cannot find the same temperaments in Chihuahuas. They have their own distinct personalities and some can be very hot tempered, arrogant and may have the traits of a terrier. This dog needs a lot of petting and affection. They are loyal pets to their owners who also take extra care of them because of their very small size. Chihuahua catches the eye of everyone who sees it and it gives the owner great pride and joy for having such a cute and cuddly companion.

Tuesday, February 10, 2009

Rare Dog Breeds

If you look at the list of dog breeds today you will be amazed with the number of different kinds of dogs in the world. There are also rare breeds of dogs, which mean that there are only few of them in existence. Some of these rare breeds are:
- Aidi. This is a Moroccan dog breed that is used to look after the flocks of sheep and goats. They are strong and lively. This dog weighs about 50 pounds and it is a tall breed which stands a little over 2 feet. It has a full-bodied frame and a thick coat to protect itself from the cold temperature. With its big built, the head of these dogs are like a bear’s head so that it can breathe easily. This dog is also called Atlas Shepherd and Chien de l’Atlas.
- Beauceron. This is a rare French dog. They are used for hunting wild boars. In France, they look after sheep and cattle in the farm and were once considered palace dogs. There is a very old painting showing two Beaucerons guarding a palace.
- Canadian Eskimo dog. This is a breed of an Arctic dog which originated from North Canada. They had been of service to nearly all popular names in Arctic and Antarctic exploration. This dog is truly strong, beautiful, proud, loyal, kind and has excellent eyesight. Its ears are straight, triangular and it has short hair at its back. Females have finer coat than males. The Canadian Eskimo dog is a hardworking breed.
- Drever. This dog breed is somewhat new and originated in Sweden. It was a cross breed between the Westphalian Basset and native hound breeds. The Drever has a sensitive nose primarily used for hunting wild rabbit, fox, wild boar and deer. They are also fond of hunting alone or in group.
- Dutch Shepherd. This is a jack-of-all-trades kind of dog with a strong muscle despite its medium-built body. There are three varieties of breed. Long-haired, short-haired and coarse-haired dog which is the rarest. All varieties have an inner skirt like hair with different colors.
- Jagdterrier. This is a working dog terrier which originated from Germany and is used for hunting badger, fox, wild boar and weasel. They are somewhat a new breed and were only known in the 20th century. These dogs are black with tan or reddish marks. Its coat is wire-like or smooth. Females usually weigh between 16 to 18 pounds while male species are heavier weighing between 19 to 22 pounds. They are good hunting dogs.
- Lowchen. This is one of the rarest dogs in the world. The head is short with puffy eyes. This is a very friendly dog which can be usually seen in dog shows. They are active and happy and they make a good family pet.

Monday, February 2, 2009

The Mastiff Dog Breed

The Mastiff dog breed originated from the sheepdog family in England. The robust animal has the potential to become a beautiful indoor pet. In Germany, the name “Mastiff” only means dog.

In some cases, a Mastiff could weigh up to 200 pounds heavy and sometimes even heavier than a full grown human being. Pups are gentle and one can control them as they grow to their maturity. The kind giant is known to be mild tempered and does not easily get angry, even if you provoke the great dog.

The Mastiff is known to be a casual and calm breed. They are loyal and loving. They want to please their master, the people in their lives and other pets in the house as well. The dog in most cases does not attack but, proper introduction of visitors is needed to prevent aggressiveness. Because of their size, intruders would surely be scared and back off. They are truly nice with children around, but, they could be quite annoying to be beside babies due to their hugeness.

This breed of dog has a sharp mind, the reason why simple or complicated commands can be taught easily. They could live up to 10 years of age. The Mastiff usually dies from CHD (Coronary Heart Disease). Aside from this, some other diseases like, elbow dysplasia and being overweight can be a serious problem if not treated. Exercise was proven to keep them strong and healthy. It is recommended that dogs walk or run in the park. They want a cool temperature and it is not advisable to let them stay outside under the sun for a long period of time.

The Mastiff dog needs quality time with their owner. They are quite easy to groom and maintain. Nail trimming should be done only when they are already uncomfortable with the length. Baths should be given at least two times a week and brushing their teeth is also a must to make them look and feel like a champ dog.

The Mastiff is closely related to a long list of breeds namely: English mastiff, British mastiff, Victoria bulldog, Filer Brassiere, American mastiff, Napolitano mastiff and a lot more. Although, the different breeds have their distinct marks, sizes and shapes, their attitudes are the same in the history of all the blood lines. Mastiffs are family-oriented dogs, and they are known to have playful pups. These breeds are loud snorers and they drool a lot!

If you are planning to get a Mastiff in the near future, make sure that you are getting a good breed. Due to their size, the public has misconceptions about them and sometimes irresponsible owners give these dogs a bad reputation. If you have a Mastiff, be sure to train them well at an early age.