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THE BOMBAY CAT
bombay cat
The Bombay cat was first bred by a Louisville, Kentucky cat breeder, Nicky Horner. She wanted a short-haired, black-eyed, mini panther-like cat that could live at home. She was also inspired by the black leopard of India.
Brief History
The Bombay has no link to wild cats. In 1953, the Bombay was created through selective breeding. Horner bred a black American Shorthair cat to a Burmese female that was a Grand Champion show cat. After a few generations, the Bombay breed was formed. This black cat looked like no other domesticated cat and received CFA Championship status in 1976. This Bombay is now recognized by all cat breed associations. The International Cat Association recognized them in 1979.
Physical Features
The Bombay has a sturdy and compact body of medium height. Their coats are short, flat and black, displaying the Bombay’s muscular form. There is no paling along the black roots of the coat. Their eyes are either copper or green and their nose, soles and mouths are black.
Average Height:
8 to 10 inches
Average Weight:
8 to 12 pounds
Life Expectancy:
9 to 13 years
Temperament
The Bombay is extremely friendly. This breed needs one-on-one time with its cat parents and does not do well alone all day. Curling up on their owners’ laps for hours is not uncommon. The Bombay needs plenty of love, fun cat toys, and mental stimulation. This breed is not very vocal.
bombay cat
Special Needs
Gingivitis: Regular dental care will reduce plaque development in your Bombay, which can lead to gingivitis and gum disease. With gingivitis, the gums will become inflamed because of plaque. Ligaments and bone are not yet affected. By including daily tooth brushing, dietary changes, using a plaque prevention gel, and oral rinses, you’ll be helping your cat. Consulting with your veterinarian for preventative cleanings every 3 months to save your Bombay’s teeth.
Sinus Problems: Viral infections are the most common causes of sinusitis in cats. Allergic sinusitis can occur seasonally or throughout the year. You cat may be exposed to indoor allergens like dusts and mold spores. Cats are prone to chronic nasal and sinus inflammation after severe acute viral infections. There may also be fungal nasal and sinus inflammation. Consult with your veterinarian.
Hip Dysplasia: This is rare in domestic cats, and is common in purebred cats. This occurs when the hip joint is loose, and leads to degenerative joint disease. (osteoarthritis) Symptoms include lameness that can be mild to severe. Cats generally need no surgery for hip dysplasia. Weight reduction can help reduce discomfort.
Possible Health Concerns
The Bombay is a healthy and moderately active cat breed that may be susceptible to the following health conditions:
The Turkish Van is quite a healthy cat — there aren’t many health issues that affect this breed. Despite this, the Turkish Van can suffer from a condition that is known as hypertrophic cardiomyopathy. This is an inherited genetic condition that require medical attention.
Exercise
When choosing cat toys for your Bombay cat, opt for toys that allow the entire family to play together.
The Bombay cat needs daily exercise combined with plenty of mental stimulation through active play and interaction with people. This cat breed is well-behaved and does well with routine. Cat gyms, cat scratchers, and interactive cat toys within a cat friendly home environment work best for keeping this playful breed stimulated.
Nutrition
All cat breeds need high quality fat and protein in their diets. They also need amino acids, including taurine that cannot be found in either human food or dog food. There are also numerous specialty diets for your cat that are formulated specifically for certain medical problems like urinary tract disorder, obesity, or kidney disease.
All cats do well by being fed twice daily. During kittenhood, kittens will need to be fed every few hours. Growing kittens need more calories, nutrients, vitamins, protein, and calories. Your Bombay should be able to enjoy a peaceful meal in a quiet corner of the house. Some cat parents prefer to leave cat food out 24/7. Consult with your veterinarian for the best dietary advice for your Bombay.
Grooming
bombay cat
The Bombay needs daily grooming to remove shedding fur. Because this breed has a short and sleek coat, minimal grooming care is required. Stainless steel combs help to remove dead hair. The Bombay is a cat breed that is always clean and shiny. Regular brushing will keep the Bombay’s coat sleek and shiny. Healthy nutrition also contributes to good coat health in cats. Consult with your veterinarian about safe and gentle ear cleaning techniques. Nail trimming is necessary every few weeks. Eyes should also be cleaned gently every morning with cotton wool or a soft wipe. Each eye should be cleaned with different wipes or cotton balls to avoid eye infection contamination in both eyes.
The Bombay is terrific companion and loving addition to any home. Remember that they thrive on attention!
THE BURMESE CAT
The Burmese originated from Thailand, near the Thai-Burma border. This cat breed was then developed in the U.K, and in the U.S. In 1871, Harrison Weir had a cat show at the Crystal Palace where two Siamese cats were shown. Both resembled the Burmese cat breed as it is today. It is almost similar to the Tonkinese cat breed. Dr. Cheeseman Thompson imported a cat called Wong Mau into San Francisco in 1930. This cat was a brown female cat that was different in build to the Siamese, and could be classified as a separate breed.
Brief History
The Burmese cat breed is believed to be related to a female Tonkinese cat called Wong Mau. This cat was imported in to the U.S in 1930, and in turn was bred with the American Siamese cat called Tai Mau, a sealpoint Siamese. The kittens were dark brown. U.S cat breeders then developed a breed standard that was different from the Burmese one. The Cat Fanciers’ Association (CFA) recognized this breed in 1936. The CFA then suspended breed recognition a decade later due to extensive Siamese outcrossing. By 1954, the CFA lifted the suspension, and by 1958, the United Burmese Cat Fanciers (UBCF) set forth an American judging standard which still stands today.
Today, most modern cat registries do not recognize the two cat breeds as different breeds. The British breed is known as the European Burmese. The first Burmese cats were dark brown. Today, the Burmese comes in numerous colors. The Burmese is well known for its playful and social temperament. They are also very vocal.
Physical Features
The Burmese has two breed standards in which both head and body shape differs. The British (traditional Burmese) cat breed has a body that is slender, long-bodied, with a wedge-shaped head. The ears are large and pointed. The muzzle is long and tapering. The eyes are moderately almond-shaped. The eye color is gold or yellow. The legs are long, and the paws are oval. With a tapering tail of medium length, the British Burmese cat breed is a small to medium cat breed that is muscular and heavy. They are also silky soft when touched.
The American Burmese cat breed has a stockier build, with a much larger head, round eyes, and a much shorter, and flatter muzzle. The ears are also set wider apart, with the legs and tail proportionate to the body. In both breed standards, the breed is a muscular breed that is thicker in build, and heavy when picked up. The coat is thick and shiny, and looks like satin. Blue Burmese will have a medium colored blue coat. The nose and paw pads will be slate grey. Champagne colored Burmese will yield a honey beige coat color. The nose is brown and the paw pads pinkish, brown color. Platinum Burmese will be a silvery grey color. The nose and paw pads will be pinkish, lavender in color.
Average Height:
10-12 inches
Average Weight:
6-10 pounds
Life Expectancy:
10-15 years
Temperament
The Burmese loves to gaze and admire the outdoors. This cat breed is laid back and fun. They adore affection, plenty of interactive cat toys, and cat trees with perches. These cats are great climbers that can be leash trained easily. This is an outgoing cat breed that delights in making new friends. They get on well with people, other animals that are not aggressive, and gentle children.
The Burmese loves to play, and will follow you for attention. An assortment of interactive cat toys is recommended for this cat breed. They enjoy being around family, and do not do well being alone all day. They are a one-person cat breed that bond closely with their pet parent. The Burmese is vocal, and are known to be persistent when trying to get your attention. This very intelligent and affectionate cat breed does well with apartment and indoor living. The Burmese may be prone to feline depression and anxiety if left alone for long periods of time. This cat breed does well with plenty of TLC! They do well with active families, and other pets.
Burmese cat
Possible Health Concerns
Gingivitis: With gingivitis, the gums will become inflamed because of plaque. By daily tooth brushing, dietary changes, using a plaque prevention gel, and oral rinses, you’ll be helping your cat.
Psychogenic Alopecia: This is when there is abnormal hair loss that is caused from excessive grooming. It may result from cat’s being stressed from other cats, dogs or people.
Cherry Eye (Eyelid Protrusion): This is a disorder of the third eyelid, resulting in swollen redness of the eye. It is more common in Persian- related cat breeds.
Cleft Palate: The Burmese may be prone to this birth defect. This is due to the palate bones not diffusing. Kittens will be unable to nurse if born with this defect.
Vestibular Disease: This is caused by a congenital abnormality. It may also result from trauma inside your cat’s ear. It may be caused by cancer or certain infections. It affects the nervous system in cats, and causes a lack of coordination.
Exercise
Your Burmese will scratch for numerous reasons, such as stretching and exercising their toes, shedding the dead outer layer of their claws, and to mark their territory. Free-standing scratchers are ideal for the Burmese, as well as cat condos that have designated scratching posts.
The Burmese cat breed needs daily exercise combined with plenty of mental stimulation through active play and interaction with people.
This cat breed is an intelligent and very affectionate cat breed that does well in most cat friendly environments. They still need to play and interact with people, and should not be left alone all day.
Grooming
The Burmese needs daily grooming to remove shedding or dead hair. Because this breed has a short and fine, soft coat, grooming is easy. Stainless steel combs help to remove dead hair. Care must be taken when grooming leg hair and body hair to avoid sensitive areas. Some cats have very sensitive areas along their backs, legs, and belly area. Curry brushes help with grooming, and will remove dead hair and debris from your cat’s coat.
With their intelligence and fun personalities, this vocal cat breed has plenty of attitude.
THE MINIATURE PINSCHER
The Miniature Pinscher has been around for hundreds of years and is even older than the Doberman, though not related. It is believed that the Min-Pin was originally breed to be a ratter, but quickly became one of Europe’s favorite Toy dog breeds. Their quirky natures also make them very popular in the U.S.
Brief History
The Miniature Pinscher was bred around 1895 and is a part of the AKC/UKC, Toy Dog Group. Historians believe that the Min-Pin is a cross of the Dachshund and the Italian Greyhound. The German Pinscher was also crossed in at some point, though WWI slowed its development. Once the war concluded, German dog breeders and dog fanciers continued breeding the Miniature Pinscher. The Min-Pin arrived in the U.S in the 1920’s. Although the Min-Pin is a small dog breed, they make highly capable watch dogs.
Physical Features
The Min-Pin is a well-balanced, sturdy, and small dog breed. This dog breed has a compact and muscular wedge-shaped body. With a narrow, tapering head and a flat skull, the Min-Pin has a strong muzzle. Their heads are well-balanced with a black nose. Chocolate-colored Min-Pins typically have a brown nose to match. This pup’s eyes are alert, oval-shaped and so brown that they’re almost black. Ears may be cropped or natural. The Min-Pin has a short, smooth and straight coat. Coloring is either red, stag red (red with black mixed in), black with rust markings, or chocolate with rust markings.
The Min-Pin always looks well-groomed. This dog breed has a hackney-type movement that is high-reaching, and a free and easy gait. The tail and head are always carried high. The Min-Pin has total self-confidence, and is also a fearless, athletic dog breed.
Average Height:
10-12 inches
Average Weight:
8-10 pounds
Life Expectancy:
12-15 years
miniature pinscher
Temperament
The vigorous and fearless Miniature Pinscher is a proud, alert, and well-groomed breed. They typically are extremely confident with tremendous spirit and may seem arrogant to other dogs. This breed may be wary of strangers and is sometimes aggressive with other dogs.
The Min-Pin will be combative if provoked. This dog breed does well with positive dog training and socialization starting at puppyhood. That said, dog parents need to protect this super confident little guy from larger dogs.
The Min-Pin does well with apartment living. Additionally, this spirited dog breed enjoys being indulged, and is very popular when visiting bookstores and cafes. The Min-Pin does well with all the attention he gets when out and about. They make spirited, loyal family additions.
Special Needs
The Min-Pin makes a wonderful active and alert companion dog, but definitely needs plenty of socialization starting the first four weeks of puppyhood. They may occasionally have aggressive tendencies towards strangers and other animals, so the sooner this breed starts with socialization and positive training, the better. Although you may think that because this dog breed is small, this is a laid back dog breed, keep in mind that the Min-Pin’s original purpose was for ratting. This dog breed is amenable to city living, but must have daily walks and trips to the local dog park. The Min-Pin often makes for a wonderful travel companion. This breed should always be supervised around children, as they tend to be short-tempered.
Min-Pin pups that have been socialized early tend to be more relaxed later on in life in different environmental situations. They also are more tolerant of children, other animals, and people. The more socialization and positive training your Min-Pin gets, the nicer they’ll be.
Children should also learn not to disturb the Min-Pin when eating, not to carry him around or be aggressive. This dog breed generally prefers adults to children and does well with a relaxed environment. That said, the Min-Pin is prone to separation anxiety when left alone. This breed may also be difficult to housetrain, especially male Min-Pins.
The Min-Pin has a high prey drive and may be possessive over food and dog toys. They love affection and benefit from a lot of TLC.
Possible Health Concerns
Cervical Dry Disk: This is a common neurological problem found in Min-Pins. Cervical disk disease results in the loss of flexibility in the intervertebral disk. The discs no longer act as shock absorbers. Symptoms include stiff head and neck, severe muscle spasms and possible paralysis.
Patellar Luxation: This is typically congenital in Toy breeds like the Min-Pin, and may occur at the same time as other limb abnormalities. It is caused by the abnormal development of the kneecap(patella). X-rays will aid in seeing the severity of the displacement.
Legg-Calve- Perthes Disease: This is the deterioration of the top of the femur (femoral head), and is seen in Toy and smaller dog breeds. It is characterized by a lack of blood supply, and the destruction of blood vessels of the bone. Some symptoms may include hindlimb lameness, loss of muscle in the thighs, and pain when moving the hip joint. Treatment involves surgery.
Epilepsy: This is an inherited disease that causes seizures.
Hypothyroidism a deficiency of the thyroid hormone and can cause weight gain in dogs, as well as constipation and cold sensitivity. Treatment typically involves thyroid hormone supplementation.
Canine Mucopolysaccaridoses: The Min-Pin is especially prone to this. It is a group of metabolic disorders that are caused by an accumulation of glycosaminoglycans or mucopolysaccharides. Symptoms may include severe bone disease, dwarfism, degenerative joint disease, and eye cloudiness.
Exercise
The Miniature Pinscher is a sturdy and headstrong little fellow and needs to be walked regularly to avoid cabin fever. This breed tends to bark a lot, and will become demanding if he’s left alone too often. That said, this breed learns very fast, so don’t let bad habits set in. The Min-Pin does well with frequent visits to the dog park and running off leash.
If this breed is not exercised properly, it may become aggressive and very rowdy. Long hikes, walks, canine surfing, and obedience classes are great for this loyal and alert pup. The Mini-Pin wants nothing more than to be with their pet parent.
Nutrition
The Min-Pin does well on a high-quality dog food. If you’re opting for home-prepared dog food, consult with your veterinarian first. All dog food diets should have the approval of a veterinarian. Smaller dog breeds tend to pick up weight easily and are prone to being overweight.
The Lagotto Romagnolo
Grooming
The Min-Pin is a low maintenance dog breed with minimal grooming required. Daily combing with a soft brush is all that’s needed. Consult with your veterinarian as to the healthiest flea and tick products. Your Min-Pin will need to be bathed weekly. With so many natural dog shampoos and conditioners available today, make sure that you use one that is appropriate for your Min-Pin’s skin and coat. Tearless shampoos work well. Some sensitive Min-Pin’s may not do well with scented products and may only be able to tolerate hypoallergenic products.
Min-Pin’s require monthly pedicures. If you’re not comfortable doing this, consult with a professional dog groomer or veterinarian. The Min-Pin’s ears also need to be regularly cleaned. This can be done by wiping a cotton ball or canine wipe, moistened with a canine ear cleaner, inside the ear. To prevent chronic gum disease, brush your Min-Pin’s teeth every morning. Professional dental cleanings are recommended twice a year.
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.
TAKING CARE OF YOUR DOG – COMMON SENSE TIPS
It’s an exciting time welcoming a new puppy into your household. They provide so much fun and love, and are like a new child in your family. This time can also be daunting to the new puppy owner, especially if they have never owned a dog before. In this article, we will give you a whirlwind tour through everything you need to know to take care of a new puppy.
What Are Whippets?
A Whippet is a dog breed that is part of the sighthound family, although they often are mistaken for greyhounds. They are slender and have a light gait. These dogs are playful and friendly, and they have grown in popularity over the last several years. Whippets can range from about 25 to 40 pounds and have a wide variety of colors and patterns. Unlike dogs such as German Shepherds, their markings are not significant to the breed, so their looks will vary. Generally they will be friendly to visitors, but are not very fond of cats that come onto their territory unless the cat is already a member of the family.
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 IRISH SETTER
irish setter dog breed
The Irish Setter is an aristocratic dog breed that originated from Ireland, and is part of the UKC, Gun Dog Group, and the AKC, Sporting Dog Group. This breed is believed to have been bred from English Setters, Spaniels, Pointers, and Gordon Setters during the 18th century. They were used to locate gamebirds, by using their sense of smell. Both Irish Red and White Setters are considered separate breeds today.
Brief History
During the 1800s, Irish huntsman bred the rangy “Red Setter” to cover flat countryside of the Emerald Isle. The Irish Setter’s kinsman from Scotland then bred the “Gordon Setter” to flush and retrieve game in rocky terrain. The Irish Setter is a hardworking dog breed that is both energetic and efficient in the Gun Dog Group. It is a good looking dog breed that is graceful, and gentle. This dog breed will show a hunter that he’s found birds by lying down on his belly. The Irish Setter has been a tremendous success in the show ring since the 1870’s.
Physical Features
The Irish Setter is a medium-to large-size dog breed that is lean and athletic in build. With a long, lean head, and almond-shaped brown eyes, the Irish Setter has long drop ears, and a black nose. There is delicate chiseling along the muzzle, around the eyes and along the cheeks.
Their tails are tapered to a fine point. They are rich red in color and aristocratic in build. Their coats are mahogany or a rich chestnut red. Their coat are flat and may have white markings on the chest, toes, and throat. This dog breed has an outgoing personality suitable for all family members, adults and children alike.
Average Height:
23-28 inches
Average Weight:
55-80 pounds
Life Expectancy:
12-14 years
Temperament
The Irish Setters are the quintessential family dogs. These pups need companionship, and plenty of mental stimulation. Gun dogs were bred to help hunters in the field, and to work together with people and other dogs. This breed adores children, and are the best companions for camping and hiking trips. They also enjoy swimming and boating. This dog breed is very active, and needs positive dog training and socialization from puppyhood to ensure that they are welcoming to everyone. This breed does not do well with apartment living, and is at its best with farms, and large gardens to play in. Active dog parents are a must because the Irish Setter.
Possible Health Concerns
The Irish Setter is a healthy dog breed that may be susceptible to the following health conditions:
Hip Dysplasia: This is a hereditary developmental disease. HD affects Irish Setters. HD occurs when the hip joint fails to develop properly.
Hypothyroidism: This is a deficiency of the thyroid hormone, and can cause weight gain in the Irish Setter, as well as constipation, and cold sensitivity.
Osteosarcoma: This is a type of bone cancer that is on the rise in Irish Setters. It is mostly found on the dog’s limbs, although it can also be found on the shoulder at times. Most Irish Setters who are affected with osteosarcoma will get this between the ages of 7-10 years of age.
Entropion: This is an inherited eye condition. This occurs when the eyelid rolls inward causing the eyelid to rub against the cornea. This is a very painful condition that can lead to blindness. Surgery correction early on helps to correct this condition and prevent blindness.
Bloat: The Irish Setter is deep- chested, and thus more prone to bloat. Bloat is a life threatening emergency. It is caused by the twisting of the stomach, together with the accumulation of gas, with or without fluid. At the first signs of dry vomiting, restlessness and discomfort, contact your emergency veterinarian. Don’t wait for a few hours. This is a true emergency that is life-threatening
Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA) is the name for a group of diseases that cause degeneration of the retina. This will include inherited abnormalities of light-sensitive cells.
irish setter
Exercise
The Irish Setter needs daily exercise with plenty of off-leash runs to maintain a healthy weight and stay mentally stimulated. This breed enjoys training, and benefits mentally from all the positive attention it receives during positive dog training. The Irish Setter is a great running and hiking companion, and is also an excellent hunting dog.
Nutrition
Each brand of dog food should be chosen with your dog’s age and specific health needs in mind. Consult with your veterinarian as to the best dietary option for your Irish Setter.
irish setter puppy
Grooming
The Irish Setter has a rich red, silky and soft coat. Grooming needs to occur daily with a soft bristle brush, and a metal dog comb to remove tangles and matting. Twice yearly dental visits are recommended for cleanings to prevent gum disease in your Irish Setter. Nails should be trimmed as often as necessary.
The Irish Setter is an affectionate and happy dog breed that is eager to please, and will easily adapt into your home. These pups do not do well alone at home all day, and need to participate in plenty of family activities. This breed is gentle and loving with children.
