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THE POMERANIAN
The foxy-faced, spunky Pomeranian has the corner on cute. But did you know they were originally bred to pull a sled? This tiny puff of fluff is royalty’s choice of lap dog, but their surprising background belies their petite and carefully-coiffed appearance.
Brief History
The Pomeranian is a descendant of the Spitz, the ancestors of today’s huskies and other sled dogs. The breed’s name comes from the region of Germany and Poland which was, in ancient times, known as Pomerania.
In the mid-1900’s, the Pomeranian was introduced to England. Back then, it weighed around 30 pounds and was most likely white in color. Canine historians think it probably descended from the Deutscher Spitz. It had pragmatic uses, including pulling sleds and herding sheep.
In 1870, the Pomeranian gained recognition through The English Kennel Club. But the breed earned its popularity boom when Queen Victoria took a fancy to it. She imported a Pomeranian from Italy, a red-coated dog named Marco. She became quite passionate about her dogs, who became beloved travel companions, and she maintained her own breeding kennel. She even exhibited her dogs at the famous Crufts Dog Show in London when it opened in 1891.
Thanks to the royal endorsement, the breed was exhibited in dog shows in the United States under the American Kennel Club’s Miscellaneous Class the following year. Eight years later, it earned a regular classification. It was accepted in various colors. The trend of miniaturizing the Pomeranian continued, and it was selectively bred to have a bigger coat and a “puff ball” appearance.
Physical Features
According to the AKC breed standard, the Pomeranian is “long a favorite of royals and commoners alike [and] has been called the ideal companion. The glorious coat, smiling, foxy face, and vivacious personality have helped make the Pom one of the world’s most popular toy breeds.”
The AKC recognizes nearly two dozen color patterns, the most common being orange or red.
Although it is descended from northern sled dogs, the Pomeranian is recognized as a toy breed.
Average Height:
6 to 7 inches
Average Weight:
3 to 7 pounds
Life Expectancy:
12 to 16 years
Temperament
The Pomeranian is inquisitive, bold, and lively.
Special Needs
With a thick double coat, the Pomeranian needs regular brushing to keep clean and free of mats. His undercoat will typically shed heavily twice a year. Like many toy dogs, he can be prone to obesity and needs his diet monitored carefully, as well as given a daily dose of exercise. Unless the Pom is raised with children, he generally does not do well with them. Being a petite toy breed, he can be fragile, and care must be taken to avoid injury.
Possible Health Concerns
Pomeranians can be prone to the following:
Patellar luxation
Dental disease
Tracheal collapse
Patellar luxation
Patent ductus arteriosus
Exercise
Although all dogs benefit from some outdoor time to sniff around and enjoy a leash walk, Pomeranians require a moderate amount of exercise. They do well in apartments and can thrive on an outdoor jaunt a couple of times a day with a game of fetch.
Nutrition
A Pomeranian’s diet should be maintained to avoid overfeeding. He will thrive on quality kibble, with extras such as meat or fish and steamed vegetables.
Pomeranians are ideal companions for a quiet home, and most of them thrive in a lap-dog lifestyle. Once he settles into your lap, it won’t be long before he finds a secure place in your heart.
A Very Thankful November
This is the time of year when Americans pause to give thanks. We give thanks for living in the greatest country on Earth, and to the veterans who made it possible for us to remain free. We give thanks to our parents and other family members for coaching and mentoring us. Most importantly, we give thanks for the presence of our pets and the unconditional love and devotion they bring into our lives. A recent survey, conducted by the Human Animal Bond Research Institute, found that 97% of 1,000 family doctors and general practitioners believe there are health benefits to having or interacting with a pet. 75% reported seeing a patient’s overall health or a specific medical condition get moderately to significantly better after the patient brought a pet into his or her family. 87% saw a patient’s outlook or mood improve.
THE COCKAPOO
Widely regarded as the “first designer dog,” the Cockapoo is a cute, love-able dog. It has a bubbly personality and is quite comfortable in social situations — especially around children. The Cockapoo was created by crossing an American or English Cocker Spaniel and a Poodle. It embodies the innate and physical characteristics of both breeds. This little dog packs a lot of love and energy in a compact body.
Brief History
The Cockapoo was created in America in 1960 and went on to become one of the most popular mixed breed dogs in the world. Known as a Spoodle in Australia, it is a cross between two beautifully looking and social dogs — the American or English Cocker Spaniel and a Poodle.
Due to their mixed heritage, Cockapoos are not recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC) as a legitimate dog breed. Despite this, generations of this little dog have been developed by breeders over time with an attempt to finally establish them as an original breed.
cockapoo dog
Physical Features
The Cockapoo is an attractive little dog. It has a relatively soft coat of fur that does not shed, but requires regular grooming. The dog is small in stature and has smart, bright eyes. Their small size makes them the perfect dog for apartment and city living.
Average Height:
14-15 inches
Average Weight:
12-24 pounds
Life Expectancy:
13-20 years
Temperament
The Cockapoo has a cool and friendly temperament. It is slow to react aggressively and forgives quickly. Cockapoos love to show off their agility by running, jumping and rolling over. This dog enjoys human company and will also perform well around other dogs. The Cockapoo is often used as a therapy dog.
Special Needs
Since this dog is supremely social, it does not enjoy being alone for long periods of time. Cockapoos will develop social anxiety if repeatedly isolated. If you can’t be home enough to help your pup with this, consider adopting a companion for them.
Possible Health Concerns
The Cockapoo is generally a healthy dog. It may, however, develop some health issues. One of these is the laxating patella. This is a knee joint issue which affects many dog breeds.
In addition, Cockapoos can develop certain eye problems such as Progressive Retinal Atrophy where the retina gradually deteriorates over many years. This may lead to visual difficulty and eventually, blindness.
The luxating patella and Progressive Retinal Atrophy can be avoided through careful breeding.
One of the more attractive features of the Cockapoo is its floppy ears. Owners should also be aware that this feature will also make them prone to issues such as mites, yeast infections and bacterial infection as well. To avoid this, clean the dog’s ears every week.
Exercise
Being quite an active dog, the Cockapoo requires regular, consistent exercise. This is to prevent restlessness and ensure good overall health. Exercise can be accomplished through walks in the park, running through a doggy obstacle course or even a jog around the block. Two exercise sessions every day is ideal for the Cockapoo.
Grooming
The Cockapoo has an attractive coat that can be quite silky and curly. Regular brushing is necessary to keep it smooth and free of matting.
Well known for its lovely nature, beautiful coat and glitzy origin, the Cockapoo is a wonderful dog. They are known for being sociable and can fit in a variety of human and dog environments.
Can Dogs Spread the Ebola Virus?
No one knows for sure. Out of an abundance of caution, authorities euthanized the pet dog of a Spanish Nursing assistant after she contracted the Ebola virus while caring for a patient in Spain.
THE VIZSLA
The Vizsla, also known as the Hungarian Vizsla, originated from Hungary. In fact, ancestors can be traced all the way back to the 10th century, where they were the favorite hunting dogs of the Magyar tribes that lived in the Pannonian Basin. Regarded as ideal sporting dogs, the ancient Vizsla lines were kept pure for centuries.
Brief History
The Vizsla became more refined as a breed over centuries when the Hungarian nobles modernized them. They became well-known as an agile, all-purpose hunting dog. However, this breed narrowly avoided extinction after World War 1. The first of this breed was imported to the U.S in the 1950’s after being smuggled out of communist Hungary. They participate in many canine sporting activities today, and make good hunting and companion dogs.
Physical Features
This is a medium-sized, lean and muscular dog. This breed has a deep tapering muzzle and carries a narrow, powerful head. Vizslas typically have brown eyes, a brown nose and ears that are rounded at the tips. Their coats are short and smooth, and their tails are also docked. Some may have white markings on the chest and toes. The wire-haired Vizsla is more common in Europe, but can also be found in the U.S.
Average Height:
21-24 inches
Average Weight:
50-65 pounds
Life Expectancy:
12-14 years
Temperament
This good-natured dog is a good addition to any home with children. They’re an energetic and agile breed that has endurance, power and drive. They’re affectionate and gentle with family members. The Vizsla needs plenty of daily exercise, including frequent off-leash hikes, trips to the dog park and organized canine sporting activities.
This breed was bred to be a hunting dog, but also make good jogging partners. That said, young dogs should not run long distances until they reach 18 to 24 months of age. Older dogs must stay active, and need to have a job. An active family that enjoys being outdoors and partaking in lots of sports is a good match for this breed.
Special Needs
The Vizsla needs plenty of positive training starting at puppyhood. This breed is very intelligent, sometimes stubborn, and extremely active. It’s important to start a good positive training schedule with your puppy early on. An untrained dog can be hyperactive and rambunctious. This breed needs plenty of attention combined with exercise.
Possible Health Concerns
This breed may be susceptible to the following:
Cancer. Treatments for canine cancer include surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation.
Eye Disorders affecting the Vizsla include entropion. Entropion is the turning in of the edges of the eyelid, so that the eyelashes rub against the eye surface. It is one of the most common eyelid defects in dogs.
Hip Dysplasia is a hereditary condition that affects this breed. HD is an abnormal development of the hip joint in medium and large dog breeds. It is generally characterized by a loose joint, and then degenerative joint disease. Excessive growth, types of exercise, nutritional factors, and hereditary factors all come in to play with hip dysplasia. Consult with your veterinarian for expert advice.
Epilepsy is a brain disorder marked by sudden bursts of abnormal electrical activity in the brain. This results in recurrent seizures.
Exercise
Vizslas need daily exercise with plenty off-leash runs. This breed enjoys routine and benefits mentally from all the positive attention it receives during training. They also enjoy dog sports like agility, rally, obedience, dock diving, barn hunts, scent work, tracking and lure coursing.
This breed needs plenty of mental stimulation. Pet parents will need to combine dog training classes into their weekly schedule. Vizslas are good running companions and excellent hunting dogs.
Nutrition
Consult with your veterinarian as to the best dog food for your Vizsla. Every dog is different, and some brands will be better suited for certain dogs. When it comes to dog foods, understanding your pet’s current health and nutritional needs is paramount. And always remember to ask your veterinarian for advice before changing your dog’s diet.
Grooming
The Vizsla has a short coat that hardly sheds. Daily brushing with a rubber mitt or medium bristle brush will aid in removing loose hair and in keeping their coats healthy. Nails need to be trimmed regularly, with twice yearly trips for dental cleanings at the veterinarian. Ears should be checked for wax, dirt and signs of irritation.
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.
How to Add a Dog to a Family That Already Has Pets
At some point, there’s a good chance you’ll think about adding a dog into your furry family. While a dog can be a welcomed part of the family, some of your pets may not adjust easily to the newcomer. Their first encounter can have unpredictable outcomes, and like with people, first impressions count for a lot. So if you’re thinking of adding a dog to your home, be sure to take the following advice into consideration.
THE CHIHUAHUA
The Chihuahua originated from Mexico and is named after its home state. Although its history is vague, it is believed that both the Toltec and the Aztec cultures raised small dogs called the Techichi. Many believe this breed is one of the ancient ancestors of the modern-day Chihuahua.
Brief History
The Techichi was refined by the Aztecs into a smaller dog breed over time and became an important part of their culture. This hardy little dog lived in small villages in the mid 1800’s when travelers from the U.S developed a liking to them in Mexico. The first Chihuahua was registered in 1908 with the AKC.
Physical Features
The Chihuahua is a compact little dog and often slightly longer than they are tall. This very feisty breed has a large, rounded skull with a short pointed muzzle and large, full eyes. Their ears are large and erect with outward-pointing tips. This breed has a long, thin tail which is either carried up or in a loop over their backs.
The Chihuahua typically has either a longhaired or a short, smooth coat. They also have a large ruff around the neck and feathering on the tail, feet, and legs.
This breed may be any color with a solid, marked or splashed coat. The most common coat colors found in Chihuahua’s are fawn, sable, red, black and tan, tricolor, and brindle.
Average Height:
6-9 inches
Average Weight:
2-6 pounds
Life Expectancy:
12-20 years
Temperament
The Chihuahua has a ‘terrier-like’ attitude — a small dog with a big attitude! The Chihuahua is extremely alert, barks a lot, and is very sensitive to noise. This breed needs plenty of socialization around other dogs, animals and people from puppyhood.
The Chihuahua also does well with positive training which helps them socialize with other dogs and people. That said, this very self-reliant dog breed does not do well with children and prefers a relaxed household with an elderly adult.
If socialized from a young age, the Chihuahua is great with other animals, dogs and people, but will still need plenty of time to feel comfortable. If you’re looking for a feisty, yet sensitive buddy, the Chihuahua might be the companion for you.
This sensitive breed will need time to adjust to new surroundings and will be very nervous at first. It may take a few weeks for them to adapt, but once they’ve settled down, there’s no turning back. They have some big personality, loving companionship and lots of laughs.
Special Needs
This breed tends to get scared very easily and does not like loud noises. Pet parents need to be careful that Chihuahua does not run away when off-leash. Early socialization with other dogs, people and animals is highly recommended. Chihuahuas also tend to bark a lot when afraid.
Possible Health Concerns
The Chihuahua is an active dog breed that may be susceptible to the following:
Heart Problems. Mitral Valve Disease also known as MVD occurs when the mitral valve thickens and degrades over time. Coughing and difficulty breathing are symptoms.
Eye Diseases. Dry eye is a common eye problem in this breed and has the potential to cause blindness. Consult with your veterinarian if you notice excessive blinking, sticky or red eyes.
Patellar Luxation. This happens when the kneecap is dislocated. If left untreated it can lead to arthritis.
Exercise
The Chihuahua needs regular daily walks and off-leash trips to the dog park. Although this breed is small, exercise is crucial for good health and mental stimulation. That said, the Chihuahua enjoys going everywhere. Trips to the mall, bookstore and grocery store are always welcome! This breed also enjoys hanging out at home and is very easy to look after.
Nutrition
Some Chihuahua’s pick up weight easily, and can quickly become obese. Pet parents should never underestimate the importance of a well-balanced diet. Chihuahua pet parents should assess their dog’s activity level, age, breed, and any medical conditions that he or she may be prone to. Consulting with your veterinarian about the best high-quality food options will help to give your Chihuahua a longer and healthier life. Providing your Chihuahua with fresh fruits, salmon, chicken, vegetables, minerals and fiber are a plus.
Grooming
The Chihuahua does a fair amount of self-cleaning. That said, daily grooming is always recommended along with regular bathing, brushing teeth, ear cleaning, and nail trimming. Visits to the veterinarian are recommended for teeth cleaning twice a year. Dental hygiene is crucial in small dogs. The Chihuahua enjoys being bathed, and if long haired, does well at the groomers. Occasional shedding may occur!
