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THE BICHON FRISE
The Bichon Frise, also known as the Tenerife Bichon, originated from France. It belongs to the UKC; Non Sporting Group, and has been around since the 14th century. It is thought that the Bichon first arrived in Tenerife with Italian traders who traded their dogs for goods.
Brief History
The Bichon Frise was bred in the Mediterranean region during the Middle Ages. It was named the Tenerife Bichon, and was a favorite among the French nobility during the 1500’s. By the 1800s, the Bichon was a popular companion dog in France, and was also used for circus performances.
The Bichon arrived in the U.S in the mid-twentieth century. During the 20th century, the Bichon faced difficult times during both wars, and became less popular. The Bichon became popular again when the breed was recognized in 1933 under the “Society Central Canine as the “Bichon with the curly hair.” In 1964, the Bichon Frise Club was formed in the U.S. The AKC accepted the Bichon in 1971 under the miscellaneous class, and in 1973 as a Non-Sporting Group.
Physical Features
The Bichon Frise is a small and sturdy dog. The Bichon has a rounded skull, with a short muzzle, and a strong lower jaw. With curious rounded dark brown or black eyes, the Bichon has high-set drop ears that are set forward on its head. This breed carries a medium-length plumed tail that curls over its back.
Bichons have double-coats with a very soft undercoat, and a medium-length outercoat. They have lots of hair on the head, beard, mustache, ears and tail. The coloring of this dog breed is white, but the Bichon can also be found with a buff, cream, or apricot color around ears and body.
Average Height:
9.5-11.5 inches
Average Weight:
10-14 pounds
Life Expectancy:
12-15 years
Temperament
The Bichon is gentle and affectionate. This breed is always cheerful and playful, and makes for a great companion dog. The Bichon has a positive attitude, but may be difficult to housebreak. Positive dog training and early socialization is recommended. Bichons are good with children, and need to be around family. They enjoy daily trips in the car, and love sitting on your lap when out and about. They are also very easy to manage in restaurants, or when out shopping.
Special Needs
The Bichon is prone to weight problems, and should be kept at the correct weight. Avoid feeding bits from the dinner table. It’s hard to resist the affectionate Bichon begging at the dinner table, but be sure to feed only healthy foods. Bichons need regular grooming, socialization and housetraining.
Possible Health Concerns
The Bichon is an active and healthy dog breed that may be susceptible to the following:
Autoimmune Disease refers to the abnormal functioning of the immune system. The Bichon may be predisposed to this. Consult with your veterinarian for more advice.
Bladder Problems. Some Bichons may be predisposed to urinary stones (uroliths). The best way to try and prevent this is to always supply lots of fresh water. The most common uroliths found in the Bichon Frise is the magnesium ammonium phosphate (struvite) and calcium oxalate uroliths. Medical, dietary, and surgical options are three options that your vet will discuss with you.
Eye Diseases that are common in Bichons include Cataracts, Sudden Acquired Retinal Degeneration Syndrome, SARDS, Progressive Retinal Atrophy or PRA, Glaucoma, and Keratitis Sicca. Consult with your veterinarian for ophthalmic care.
Luxating Patellas. This is a hereditary condition that is caused by the abnormal development of the kneecap(patella). X-rays will aid in seeing the severity of the displacement. Treatment usually involves surgical options.
Dental Problems. The Bichon Frise needs proper dental care, including preventative methods like daily tooth brushing, which will help prevent gum disease, periodontitis and endodontic disease.
Exercise
The Bichon Frise needs daily exercise every day to stay fit, and to not pick up weight. This breed enjoys being indoors with their pet parent, and is such an easy keeper. Additionally, this breed is moderately active meaning that daily walks suffice, though dog park visits are always welcome. Bichon’s love quality time with their pet parent, so be sure to take them on your adventures when possible!
Nutrition
Pet parents should never underestimate the importance of a well-balanced diet for this small and short breed. The Bichon picks up weight very easily, and can get to be obese rather fast. Feed a complete and balanced food for the appropriate life stage of your Bichon. Always consult with your veterinarian if your dog develops food allergies, and needs a change of diet.
Grooming
The Bichon has a wonderful coat that needs to be maintained daily. Bichons suffer from sensitive eyes, and the hair close to the eyes will need to be trimmed regularly. The Bichon should be bathed once a week, and tends to enjoy a visit to the groomers. Most Bichon pet parents find it easier to take their Bichons to a professional groomer every 4 weeks. This is a hypoallergenic dog breed, and suits pet parents that suffer from allergies.
Ears also need to be checked often for signs of infection. As usual, teeth need to be brushed daily, and a twice yearly dental cleaning at the vet is recommended to prevent dental disease.
Bichons are a popular dog breed to adopt. These pups enjoy apartment living, and are easy to keep. With its gentle demeanor and playful nature, the Bichon does not bark a lot and gets along with everyone they encounter.
COMMON ILLNESSES IN DOGS AND CATS
Looking after a pet is a great responsibility, and along with the love and joy it brings, there’s also the upkeep of its welfare and wellbeing.
THE BRITTANY
The Brittany, also known as the Brittany Spaniel, first originated in Brittany, France during the mid-nineteenth century. This breed was a cross of French Spaniels and English Setters, hence their wonderful gentle temperament.
Brief History
This breed was developed by French hunters in Brittany, France. At the time, medieval poachers and peasants wanted an all-purpose dog breed. It became popular in the U.S during the 1930’s and today is considered one of the most sought-after hunting dogs.
This breed was registered with the AKC in 1934 as a Brittany Spaniel and is still known in France under that name. However, during the 20th century, the British and French lines merged. This led to the Brittany’s in the U.S working game by pointing like a Setter. This breed also stands higher on its legs than the Spaniel. In 1982, the AKC shortened the Brittany Spaniel’s name to the Brittany. Today they are one of the most popular field dog breeds in the U.S.
the brittany dog breed
Physical Features
The Brittany is an athletic and compact medium-sized breed. They have short, high-set triangular drop ears with a fawn, tan, brown, or deep pink nose. With dark, deep-set affectionate eyes, this breed can be tailless or have a docked tail to about 4 inches.
The Brittany is an agile breed that can cover lots of ground. They are strong, fast, friendly and intelligent. Their coats are flat, wavy or dense with neither a wiry or silky feel. Front and hind legs have feathering with skin that is fine and slightly loose. Coat color ranges from orange and white to black and white.
Average Height:
17.5-20.5 inches
Average Weight:
30-40 pounds
Life Expectancy:
12-14 years
Temperament
This is a good-natured dog breed. This dog is gentle, good-natured, active and fun to be around. They are easily trainable and love dog sports that involve agility like flyball and dock diving.
The Brittany makes for a wonderful active and outdoor family dog. They are gentle companions and are great with children. That said, a well-socialized and positively-trained Brittany does best in homes with large backyards and plenty of space to run off-leash. Pet parents need to keep in mind that this breed needs plenty of exercise and should participate in organized canine sporting activities when possible.
Special Needs
This good-natured dog needs plenty of exercise and a job to do. Positive dog training and canine sports are a must to keep this wonderful breed happy and healthy! The Brittany was bred to hunt, so long hikes in the woods are ideal. On-leash daily runs with pet parents will also satisfy the healthy and active lifestyle they crave. Unfortunately, apartment living is not preferable!
Possible Health Concerns
Ear Infections – These take place when yeast or bacteria levels in the ear get out of proportion. A dog’s outer ear is most likely to get infected due to exposure to dirt, sweat and possibly foreign objects. Brittany’s are prone to ear infections because of moisture retained in the ear from swimming. Ears should be checked and dried daily.
Retinal Detachment – This occurs when the retina becomes detached and is separated from the back of the eye. Part of the blood supply to the eye is also restricted and the eye is prevented from functioning properly. In the Brittany, retinal disorders are hereditary and presented at birth.
Hip Dysplasia – This is an abnormal development of the hip joint in large dog breeds. It is generally characterized by a loose joint which leads to degenerative joint disease. Excessive growth, types of exercise, nutritional and hereditary factors all come in to play with hip dysplasia.
Exercise
The Brittany needs plenty of regular exercise. This breed is not only intelligent, but also active. Pet parents need to organize stimulating hikes, trips to the dog beach or dog park, dog training classes, agility classes, and other mentally stimulating activities for their furry family member.
Positive puppy training classes should commence during puppyhood so that socialization begins early.
Nutrition
Pet parents should never underestimate the importance of a well-balanced diet.
Assess your dog’s activity level, age, breed, and any medical conditions that they may be prone to. Consulting with your veterinarian about the best high-quality food options will help to give your Brittany a longer and healthier life.
Grooming
The Brittany has a short flat or wavy coat and does not require heavy grooming. As with all breeds, daily grooming with a soft brush or hound glove is necessary. They may need some light clipping done around the neck and head for showing purposes. Daily toothbrushing, ear cleaning, and regular nail trimming are a must.
This dog is best suited to active and outdoorsy pet parents.
The breed does well in both rural and suburban environments and thrives with jobs. The Brittany does not do well being left alone at home all day. This breed is affectionate and loves to be around people. That means family outings too. Plenty of trips to the dog park and exploring.
UPSET STOMACH IN DOGS AND CATS
There’s nothing more upsetting than seeing a family member unwell, and cats and dogs are no exception. However, gastrointestinal upset will happen from time to time as part of an active pet’s natural life.
Bad Dog Chronicles
We love dogs because they’re cute, cuddly, and loyal companions. But we also love them for the shenanigans they get into. From stealing food, to hiding behind the sofa, to creating embarrassing moments for their owners in the middle of the street, we can’t get enough.
The Most Loyal Dogs
Whether you’re scouring the internet researching puppy temperaments for your new addition or you are telling your new neighbor how good Fido is; chances are, you’ll either read about loyalty in dogs, or you’ll speak of it.
THE LABRADOR RETRIEVER
The Labrador Retriever is one of the most popular dog breeds. Dogs in this breed are high-energy, intelligent, and social. This breed is a sporting dog, and originated in Newfoundland, first dubbed St. John’s Water dog.
Brief History
The first record of this breed was in Newfoundland in the 1700’s. They were brought to England in the early 1800’s. Some think they were bred from the Greater Newfoundland dog or the French St. Hubert’s dog.
This breed of dog was known for enjoying retrieving, originally with English fisherman in Newfoundland. The fisherman would use them to retrieve fish that had fallen off their hooks, or bring fishing lines in through the water. This made them good hunting dogs. The name Labrador was introduced in 1887 by the Earl of Malmesbury.
Physical Features
Labs come in three colors: black, yellow, or chocolate, with black being the most popular. They have large, stocky bodies. Their coats are dense and short, and repel water and dirt.
Average Height:
22-24 inches
Average Weight:
55-79 lbs
Life Expectancy:
10-15 years
Temperament
Labrador Retrievers are extremely social, and will want to play quite frequently. They’re fast learners and bond quickly when given attention. They have gentle dispositions, are easy to get along with, and are known to be loyal.
Labs are ideal family dogs, sporting dogs, and therapy dogs. They are obedient with proper training, and their favorite activities are swimming and retrieving (naturally).
Special Needs
Regular exercise is incredibly important for Labrador Retrievers in your family, not only because they are high energy dogs and love to play, but also because they are susceptible to weight gain if they’re sedentary. Labs also have a tendency to push themselves to the limit of their physical abilities, and can overheat in warm weather.
While they are good outdoor dogs, this breed prefers to live inside with their human companions.
Possible Health Concerns
A common health concern for Labrador Retrievers is obesity. Healthy dogs will have an hourglass shape. Other conditions they are susceptible to include:
Patellar Luxation. This happens when the dog’s patella is dislocated. Treatment involves surgery.
Canine Hip Dysplasia (CHD). When the ball and socket of the hip joint are malformed and grind against each other instead of moving smoothly. Treatment could be outpatient but it could also involve surgery.
Osteochondritis Dissecans (OCD). When cartillege in a joint is damaged. Treatment could involve surgery.
Exercise
Labrador Retrievers are highly active, and you’ll need enough space in your home and yard for them to run around. They’ll go on runs or play fetch. You won’t want them to get bored, because they can become temperamental and even be destructive.
Labs need a lot of exercise, and especially love swimming, in any type of water. While young, you’ll need to watch them in the water, but over time they’ll gain confidence.
Nutrition
Each Labrador Retriever is different, and may need different nutritional needs. It’s best to consult with your veterinarian. Since this breed is prone to obesity, monitor their food consumption.
Grooming
Due to their dense coats, Labs will need to be combed weekly if not daily. They also shed, so watch out for your carpets! Their coats are resistant to water and also dirt, so brushing is mostly for shedding maintenance and to keep them looking healthy. They’ll need regular nail trimming and ear cleaning as well.
Labrador Retrievers are high-energy, loyal, family dogs who love attention and being involved in family activities. Know that when you adopt, you’ll have to put the time in to train them, but your efforts will be rewarded!
THE GOLDENDOODLE
The Goldendoodle is a delightful, loyal and sociable dog. Goldendoodles are active, love company and will feel comfortable in any social situation. Their friendly disposition makes a Goldendoodle the perfect family dog.
Brief History
Goldendoodles are result of crossing a Poodle and a Golden Retriever. This breed was named “Goldendoodle” in 1992. It was first crossbred in England, but many Goldendoodle enthusiasts believe that it originated from America.
To get more uniform results, this dog breed has been interbred within itself. During this process, only top quality Goldendoodles are interbred with each other. The Goldendoodle is not a pure breed and is therefore not recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC).
Physical Features
The Goldendoodle can be medium sized or large in stature. This is because it was bred using a regular sized Golden Retriever with a Standard Poodle. It has wavy or curly fur coat which can be apricot, black, chocolate, red, silver or brown in color.
Average Height:
20 to 29 inches
Average Weight:
50 to 90 lb
Life Expectancy:
10 to 13 years
Temperament
Having a fairly social heritage, the Goldendoodle has a cool temperament and a pleasant disposition. They are calm, happy and always excited to meet new people. The Goldendoodle believes that everyone is a friend and is quick to accept new individuals into the family.
Goldendoodles are quite outgoing making great companions for children and adults as well.
Quite the active dog, the Goldendoodle enjoys playing games such as tug of war, fetch, chasing and taking a dip in the pool. They are also quite comfortable relaxing or lounging with the family.
The Goldendoodle is not a habitual barker but they will always inform their family of a stranger in the house or within the compound with a few, sharp barks.
Special Needs
The Goldendoodle is a highly active dog. To keep all its energy in check, it is necessary to train them. Agility courses are ideal for managing this dog’s energy. Participating in agility courses helps to keep it in top physical and emotional condition. In addition to that, this course also gives the Goldendoodle an excellent opportunity to bond with its owner.
Possible Health Concerns
The Goldendoodle is prone to a variety of health issues. These are problems that are usually faced by Golden Retrievers and Poodles. They include: Von Willebrand’s Disease, Hypothyroidism, Juvenile Cataracts, Hip or Elbow dysplasia.
Exercise
The Goldendoodle needs to get lots of regular exercise and should do well with 2-3 walks a day, lasting around 30 minutes.
Those who have a fenced backyard can grant their Goldendoodle enough exercise through running around with the kids or playing ball.
Nutrition
Goldendoodles are highly energetic. Being medium-sized dogs, they need nutrition that will promote the growth of their bone and tissue thus they require a diet that is high in protein. While buying some food for your Goldendoodle, make sure that it contains more meat-centric than grain-centric protein. An example of such is dehydrated turkey.
Starch and carbohydrates also come in handy. Let your Goldendoodle consume foods containing ingredients such as pumpkin puree and dried seaweed. The latter is also a natural plaque remover. Oils are also essential for the Goldendoodle and food containing virgin coconut oil or milk thistle oil is ideal for them. Dried fruit is also good because it boosts the dog’s immune system.
Grooming
Goldendoodles have a rich, luscious coat which requires regular, attentive grooming. This coat needs to be brushed on a daily basis to prevent matting. In addition, your Goldendoodle needs to be provided with some professional clipping at least every other month. This session includes trimming the fur, clipping its nails and a good bath.
The Goldendoodle is an excellent dog to have in your home. They are known for being loving companions (often a top choice for therapy dogs!), an ideal playmate, your exercise partner and just a wonderful family dog.
