Kristopher’s Pet Blog

Dogs are not only voracious animals, they are food motivated as well so that mealtimes can be the highlight of a dog’s daily life. Dogs that are left alone at home all day would eagerly wait for the arrival of the master as once the door opens, the bowl of kibble is not far behind. The daily activities of dogs in the wild are devoted to finding a meal. As food is scarce, these dogs would have to consume every bit of the prey as it is not known when the next meal would be. In the wild, meat is the main diet of dogs but when hunting is poor, dogs would eat anything they can find. Dogs in the wild can turn vegetarian and survive on fruits, berries, grass and leaves.

The activity of hunting for food is no longer needed by modern day dogs. Nutritious foods are regularly provided by the owners. Most dog owners will be mystified by the pet’s habit of eating inedible things. Dogs have the inclination to gnaw and eat wood, stones and to eat poop. A pet owner should be thankful that the dog has developed an addiction to leaves and not to poops.

Dogs that eat leaves are believed to be correcting a dietary imbalance. Dogs are noted to have a high level of intelligence, these animals also have the ability to know if something is amiss with their system. A dog’s habit of eating leaves is attributed to the need to fill up a nutrient deficiency that would result if an owner provides the dog with cheaper but low quality food.

We are aware of the dog’s big appetite. Dogs have a curious nature. This curious nature often results to ingestion of non-edible objects. Apart from this, dogs also have the inclination to eat spoiled food. Would it be any wonder if these animals constantly suffer from an upset stomach? Fortunately, nature has given our canine friends ability to self medicate. Every time dogs have ingested foreign objects and toxic substances, they only need to eat leaves or grasses and the contents of the stomach not accepted by the dog’s system will be vomited. The leaves eating habit can be a way to gain attention. Owners would curb the leaf-eating habit by reprimanding the pet. However, for a dog, reprimands and even punishment would be much better than no attention at all.

The life of the pet will not be put at risk by eating leaves as long as what the dog has ingested was not sprayed with toxic substances. Stopping the leaves eating habit is necessary to keep the pet safe.

Find out more about why dogs eat leaves and first aid for dogs at Sarah’s Dogs.

The habit of eating paper is another of the less acceptable habits of dogs. Why do dogs love eating paper? Dogs are known for their great appetites as well as for their very sensitive scenting abilities. Papers with bits of food and appetizing smell will be very fascinating to a dog.

It is for certain - dogs will never be able to keep away from a pizza box or a hamburger wrapper. What about a book, a newspaper or a toilet paper? OMG! Dogs really do have the propensity to develop weird behaviors. It seems that dogs find the sounds of tearing paper very interesting. Dogs are well loved pets but an owner will certainly be irritated if the dog has decided to have for breakfast the important documents.

What will happen to a dog that is left alone at home all day? Bored dogs will find something to while the time and because dogs would not know right from wrong, the boredom will result to destroyed belongings. The telephone book, a newspaper lying on the table or even the toilet paper in the bathroom would catch the dog’s attention. Dogs have the inclination to chew and the texture of papers as well as exciting tearing sound will be very attractive to a playful dog. Being curious of their environment, puppies would use the mouth to learn about its new world and papers are one of the things chewed and eaten. Eating paper and other things will be noticed in teething puppies as chewing is believed to soothe sore gums.

The paper eating habit of the dog can be a symptom of a medical problem. The habit to eat paper is commonly associated with behavioral problems. However, the unacceptable behavior of eating papers may not be caused by the dog’s behavioral problems rather it can be an indication that the dog has anemia or gastro intestinal disorder. A dog may eat papers in an effort to deal with the malabsorptive and maldigestive disorders.

The habit of eating papers will have dangerous effects on the dog. Hopefully the papers that have entered through the dog’s mouth would have exited through the other end. A dog that was not able to excrete the eaten papers would be a serious concern as surgery will be necessary to save the life of the pet and needless to say, the dog owner will have to foot the large surgical bills.

Sarah’s Dogs provides more information on why dogs eat paper as well as dog first aid.

A dog breed that originated in Germany during the 17th century was made famous by its monkey-like expression. This little terrier type dogs was in fact dubbed as Monkey Dog. In France, breed enthusiasts lovingly call the dog Diablotin Moustachu which means mustached little devil. This dog was primarily developed to be a rodent catcher. In the early years of the dog’s development, these little dogs are frequently seen hunting rodents in kitchens, barns, stables and granaries.

A high level of intelligence, an affectionate nature and the renowned clownish personality are the admirable qualities of an Affenpinscher. The Affenpinscher is the dog for you, if your choice for a pet is a dog that will provide the family with comic relief. An Affenpinscher would take advantage of every opportunity to catch people’s attention by showing off. Would it be any wonder if the lowly rat catcher that curls up in barns would become highly valued pets that use the owners lap as a place to rest. However, this dogs has a cunning personality. The dog would know how and when to appeal to the owner’ weakness. For so small a dog, it can exploit the family’s weak spots and in no time would conquer the entire household. This dog is highly valued as a family companion because of its admirable qualities but owners must never forget that the dog can be overbearing if allowed. It would never be wise to spoil this pet as the dog can become a small tyrant. The dog has this unwanted behavior of showing a bad temper if its wishes are not granted by its master. The dog is small but it will attack if teased by strangers. Loving care but consistent firm training would have positive results and turn this mustached little devil into spunky but lovable toy-like pet that will consistently bring joy to the family.

An Affenpinscher belongs to the toy dog breed . This breed would be an ideal choice for an owner living in an apartment. However, unlike other toy breeds, the dog has a rather high exercise requirement. This breed must be allowed to exercise daily. Be aware that an Affenpinscher is a highly energetic breed. An Affenpinscher, apart from being cuddly is also an affectionate pet thus it is not surprising for an owner to carry and cuddle the dog constantly. A bored and inactive Affenpinscher will become a horrible destructive pet. Properly cared for and correctly trained, an Affenpinscher will be an ideal pet that will never cease to provide the family with loving and devoted companionship.

Dogs are noted to be good sleepers. Breeds of dogs that have a fondness to lie and to sleep in front of the fire are called fireplace rugs. A dog would either lay in the middle of the bed and take the flying fox position or lay on its back on the side of the bed. Some dog would sleep with the four legs up in the air as if waiting for the ceiling to fall and others would sleep all curled up. Dogs have different sleeping positions but one thing is common in these animals - they spend more than half of the day sleeping.

Psychologist have different interpretations for the way people sleep. Every time you see the pet sleeping all curled up do you ever wonder why the dog sleeps this way? Dog wise people would not need the analysis of dog behaviorists to know the reasons why dogs sleep all curled up. Dogs have survived in the wild for thousands of years before they were tamed and became the companions of man.

This means that these animals would hunt their own food and would sleep wherever they find a relatively safe place. Primitive dogs have to sleep on hard ground, on the snow and on places open to the elements. Obviously, because dogs don’t have blankets to keep them warm, they need to curl up to conserve warmth. By sleeping this way, the paws will be covered by the body and the tail will be used to protect the face from the elements.

Dogs in a pack would stay together. It is necessary for dogs in the wild to stay in a place that would be safe from predator attacks. A safe place may be small for all the pack members thus dogs have to sleep curled up to make room for other dogs. Sleeping together in a cramped place is done to protect the pack from the attacks of predators. A sleeping dog all curled up is protecting the vital organs from the attack of predators.

The hard life of dogs ended after domestication. Dog were provided with all the food they can consume and all the things that would make their life comfortable. Pet dogs now sleep in comfortable beds. Some pets even sleep with the master. However, dogs are still found sleeping all curled up. It would be hard for a dog to relax fully if it has to curl up thus the pet will not have a restful sleep. You can encourage the dog to take other sleeping positions to make the dog more comfortable.

Learn more about why dogs sleep curled up as well as first aid for dogs at Sarah’s Dogs.

Dogs have some pretty strange behaviors that at times amuses pet owners. Dogs, unlike other animals that would simply lie down to sleep, would have to circle the sleeping area before lying down and then would take a curled up position to sleep. However, some dogs would lie on their side; others would sleep on their stomach with all the legs stretch out. The flying squirrel sleeping position of the pet would certainly be very entertaining to a family that seems unable to take the eyes off the beloved dog.

A dog that sleeps on its back with the legs up is another funny antic of the dog. Without a doubt, this sleeping position would be the funniest most especially if the dog is dreaming of running and making pedaling motions with its legs

That dogs are man’s best friend may be an over rated cliche but because of an affectionate nature, dogs really do form a strong bond with their human families. Dogs would always want to amuse its human family thus it is not surprising if the dog would want to provide the family with something to laugh at even if it is sleeping. A sleeping dog that takes on the over turned table position would be a cause of high spirits in the family.

On the other hand, a dog expert would know the other reasons for this funny sleeping position of the pet. Dogs commonly sleep lying on their back when the weather is hot as by doing so, the belly that is less covered with fur is exposed to cooler air. A dog’s cooling system is rather inefficient as the few sweat glands are only found on the dog’s paws. To maintain the correct level of body temperature, dogs loll out the tongue and pant. Another way to cool the body is to sleep on its back so that the belly that is less covered with hair is exposed to cooler air.

Even when sleeping, the dog shows its affectionate nature. With the funny sleeping position, a dog can get what it always wants and that is to be petted and kissed by its human family. A dog sleeping on its back is certainly a wise one as this is considered to be the most comfortable sleeping position. Dogs would only assume this sleeping position when they feel safe and secure. Dogs don’t feel so secure when they sleep outdoors thus they are not seen sleeping on their back. The most common position is one where the dog is all curled up. With this sleeping position, the dog can somehow prevent serious injuries of the vital organs from the attack of predators.

Sarah’s Dogs has more answers to why dogs sleep on their backs as well as information about first aid for dogs.

Are you or are you not in favor of docking dogs? Some breeds like the Doberman Pinchers, German Short Haired Pointer, Rottweiler have docked tails. Tail docking is commonly done in accordance with a kennel club standard. This practice is usually done to working dogs to protect the tail from potential injuries. If you know why a dog wags its tail, you probably would think twice about having the tail of the pet docked. Do you know the reasons why dogs wag their tails?

Many animals have tails but only dogs are known to have the inclination to wag the tail. Dogs have many uses for their tails. Undoubtedly, a richly feathered tail will enhance the appearance of the dog. The tail though is a very important appendage for a dog. Retrievers use the tail as a rudder to make swimming easier and working dogs that need to negotiate cliffs and sharp curves use the tail as a balancing tool. A very significant function of a dog’s tail though is as a communication tool.

Dogs’ ability to communicate is limited, nevertheless, they can still convey what they feel to humans and animals by using the tail as well as other body parts. An observant dog owner can easily understand the message the pet wants to convey by observing the wagging of the tail, the expression of the eyes, the movements of the ears as well as the other body movements of the dog .

Smiles and handshakes are for humans while tail wagging is for dogs. A smile is a simple and effortless way of making friends. Dogs are the most popular choice for a pet because of their friendly nature. The wagging of the tails is doing the talking. A dog with a happily wagging tail will get lots of human friends. An observant owner will be able to understand what the pet is feeling.

An excited dog would wag the tail madly. A dog meeting the master at the gate with a happily wagging tail may be looking forward to a walk or to receiving a treat. Being social animals, dog would thrive in an environment with a well defined hierarchy. The dog’s rank in the pack will be very evident by the way the tail is wagged. Dominant dogs will wag a tail that is held high stiffly. Lower ranked dogs wag tails that hare held lower slowly. Dogs wag the tail for identification purposes. By wagging the tail, a dog releases its distinct odor. This secretion that is released by the glands are pheromones that identify the dog.

Learn more about why dogs wag their tails and first aid for dogs at Sarah’s Dogs.

Humans have grown so attached to dogs because these animals have proven their worth not only as affectionate pets but also as dependable protectors and helpers. Because dogs are much loved it would not be uncommon for a pet owner to view the pet as a member of the family. Some dog owners would even care for the dog as if it is a baby.

Dogs are kissed and cuddled and allowed to share the bed of the master. Dogs are treated as babies therefore, an owner would constantly worry about the well being of the pet. Some pet parents would even over react and would rush to the vet if the dog is noticed to be off color.

Every little movement of the pet will be noticed by a loving pet parent because similar to a toddler, the dog will be constantly watched as well. Dogs normally twitch when they sleep but pet parents not aware of this fact would worry and think that the twitching is a seizing episode. Dogs in deep sleep would twitch but because canine seizures are the concern of most pet owners, the twitching may be mistaken as seizure.

Seizing and twitching are involuntary movements that can be noticed in sleeping dogs. A seizure can be distinguished from switching as in seizing episodes, the dog would have stiffer movements. It will also be noticed that the seizing dog will be difficult to awaken as they will not be responsive to the voice of the owner. A twitching sleeping dog would respond to the voice of the master thus it can be roused easily. The owner can simply tap the dog or call the dog’s name. Twitching would not be harmful to dog but one that is seizing must be given appropriate attention.

Just like their human friends, dogs too would dream when they are sleeping deeply. The dog acting up a dream may growl, snap at insects and may pedal the legs as if running. The twitching dog may be dreaming of falling from heights. The twitching movements of the pet should not worry the owner but there are cases when the dog would need attention as the movement can be a sign of a health concern. Constant twitching can be a sign of canine distemper. An advanced stage of distemper is one of the causes of twitching as the neurological system of the dog is severely affected.

At Sarah’s Dogs you can find out more about why dogs twitch in their sleep as well as first aid for dogs.

Walking around in circles is an innate behavior of dogs. Walking in circles is a canine habit that was handed down by the dog’s ancestors. This evolutionary holdover is believed to be the primitive dog’s way of making the bed comfortable. Unlike modern day pets that are provided with comfortable beds, dogs in the wild would sleep under the stars on hard ground covered with snow or leaves.

Walking around in circles to trample the vegetation will make the sleeping area more comfortable. Walking around in circles is a self preservation act of dogs in the wild. Before lying down to sleep a dog has to walk in circles to make sure that the chosen area is not inhabited by snakes or scorpions. Walking in circles is also done to make sure the chosen bedding area is safe and that they will not be attacked by predators while they are sleeping. Dog owners would drop anything they are doing if the pet is seen walking around in circles as this would mean that the dog is about to poop and must be taken out.

Being social animals, dogs would always want to interact with the family. A dog putting on an act to entertain the family may cock its head or turn around in circles. Most dogs (and even cats) would be seen walking around in circles. However a pet owner should be observant as a dog that turns around in circles without defecating or without lying down to sleep can have an underlying medical concern.

A dog will lose its sense of balance if the inner ear is impaired given the fact that the ear is one of the balance centers of the body. Ear mite infestation and ear infection that severely damage the ears can be the reason why the dog is walking in circles. Pet antibiotics and ear washes can make the dog walk in circles if these medications and formulations have a negative effect on the dog.

Although walking in circles is a normal behavior of dogs, a pet owner wanting to rule out medical reasons would take the dog to a vet as in some cases the dog that is walking in circles can have canine distemper, vestibular diseases or systemic lupus erythematosus. Balance and voluntary movements are controlled by the cerebellum of the brain. A tumor in the cerebellum can be the reason for the dog’s tendency to walk in circles as the growth will make the dog lose its sense of balance and coordination.

Why do dogs walk around in circles? Sarah’s Dogs have more answers to this common dog behaviour as well as information on dog first aid.

American Foxhound - A Versatile Dog Breed

The American Foxhound bears a striking resemblance to the body build of a Beagle. The dog generally stands between 21 to 25 inches and weighs from 65 to 75 pounds. This breeds athletic sleek body is covered with a smooth coat of tan and white, red and white or black red and white combination. Well boned, straight and long legs give this breed its legendary speed.

Although this hunting breed has adapted the name America, these dogs have existed long before the land has gained independence from Great Britain. The breed originated from the English dogs that were brought to the New World in 1650 by Robert Brooke.

In Great Britain, these dogs were highly acclaimed for their excellent hunting abilities. These dogs are favorite hunting companions of the British landed gentry. In a fox hunt, hunters on horseback follow packs of American Foxhounds. A change in the deep melodious voice of the dog signifies that a prey is found. New World settlers utilize the dog in the same manner. American Foxhound is a ferocious breed thus it was rumored that the dog have been used by the colonizers to hunt Indians.

The American Foxhound was developed from the crossing of English hounds with the dogs of settlers from Ireland and France. This has resulted to the development of the American Foxhound.

The American Foxhound, first and foremost is a hunting dog. This dogs would love nothing more than to hunt. An ultra sensitive scenting ability, a remarkable staying power and a passionate desire to overpower a prey make this breed a notable hunter. An American Foxhound is an intense hunter, once a prey is sighted, the dog will not stop until the animal is taken. Foxes are the usual quarry of American Foxhounds but these dogs hunts other animals too.No wonder, the breed is highly valued as a hunting dog.

The breed has excellent hunting prowess is basically the reason why these dogs are highly valued. Although the dogs exhibit a courageous and tenacious temperament when hunting, American Foxhounds have a sweet and gentle personality. Highly energetic while hunting, this dog turns into a calm, gentle and sweet family companion. This breed of dogs is not a one man dog. This breed that loves the whole family is particularly affectionate and gentle with children.

Many individuals generally confuse to select the right dog breed when they wish to adopt a single of them for their family or themselves. Which feature of the breed is suitable for you? Are they will fit using the location your spouse and children or you reside? You will find loads of doggy breeds offered. Before you decide to pick out 1 of them, it truly is far better to collect some information about them. I hope right after reading this article you may get useful information about one from the breeds.

One of the methods of hunting, which is very effective, is using rat terrier dog. It is much easier to track down your target using this dog rather than doing it alone. It can be your great companion for hunting because he is very energetic kind of dog.

Energetic spunky canine could be the Rat Terrier pet. Great as spouse and children companion and watchdog are these breed. With other pet, these dogs also get along really well. Those are some with the characteristic of this breed.

President Teddy Roosevelt is the one whom named this doggie as the Rat Terrier k9. Mix between the Manchester Terriers on the 1800’s and smooth Fox Terriers in Excellent Britain were these dogs developed. In popularity quickly they spread in America immediately after brought from England close to 1900. To retain hunting instinct they cross breed again while using the Beagle by many breeders in America. For their agility, the blue and brindle color coats, and speed, they have been also cross with Whippets.
Many colors are obtainable in this breed. Tri-spotted, solid red, black and tan, and red are the most common colors. Easy to groom and not tend to shed a lot are their short hair coat. It doesn’t have to brush frequently but ample for twice a month. For bathing it truly is also not complicated because it suffices for twice a year. That is since frequent cleaning is not essential.

The stature of this breed is regarded as compact dog. It has weight 12 to 35 pounds. The height is all over 14 and 24 inches tall. Compare to other Terrier breeds, while he is smaller, toughness is displayed by this doggy. dog recall training is not the only one they need. The k9 needs to get a suitable training to grow to be good fellow and socializing as a young doggy. With no education, they could be aggressive and destructive.

Should you stay in an apartment or smaller house, these breed can become a great option to suit your needs. But keep in mind, ample stimulation is essential to stay clear of their destructive behavior. Proper outlet for their aggression is essential for them.
When you have to find a k9 to turn into a fantastic companion, this breed is an excellent alternative. It will give a new color for your spouse and children with their spunkiness and strength levels.

Check out a good article about training german shepherd for adding your knowledge about your dog!

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