Considerations in Choosing a Dog

Choosing a pet is for some a simple thing, while for others a more than a serious endeavor. Usually, the pick of the pet can be based on location, family situation, intent, are there children, or various other factors. Where it gets complicated, or intense, is when one has to take into consideration potential health issues. And one of the more relevant issues is the propensity for hip problems. Certain breeds are more likely to develop joint issues.

Probably the most simple question when looking at a new puppy is to ask " Did the parents, or any other pups in any of their litters ever show signs of joint issues?". And before I start, I would recommend talking to a vet about exercises to maintain mobility, activities to be avoided, and the need or recommendation of adding supplements to a dog's diet.

Here is a list of 9 breeds that have been shown to have a predisposition to joint problems.

1. German Shepherds: It's well known that Shepherds are predisposed to hip dysplasia and other joint issues.

    2. Labrador Retrievers: With a propensity towards obesity, amplify stress on joints.

3. Dachshunds: With their long, low bodies, they can develop back problems, especially if they become overweight.

4. Rottweilers: Have a genetic propensity to develop hip and elbow dysplasia and even arthritis.

5. Newfoundland Retrievers: Like other big breed dogs, they can hip dysplasia /arthritis partially due to rapid growth rate.

6. Great Danes: Huge frames and rapid growth tends to lead to hip/elbow dysplasia and even arthritis.

7. Saint Bernards: Huge, fast growth can cause stress on the joints leading to hip issues.

8. Old English Sheep Dogs: Suffer the same fate as other large breeds.

9. Mastiffs: Also prone to hip/elbow dysplasia, as well as candidates for arthritis.

Don't think I'm down on any of these breeds. I had a Black Lab for quite a while. He was my best hunting partner. He loved to be out goose hunting. He was always active. He never got overweight. He never had any of these issues. I think knowledge is the greatest tool in preventing or treating conditions as best we can.

Liquid Glucosamine (Vegetarian)
Suitable for All dogs even those allergic to Beef or Shellfish 

Veterinarians sometimes recommend supplements with glucosamine, MSM, and chondroitin when a dog is a young as one year, or at the time when they quit growing. This is something you, as the owner, and your veterinarian needs to talk out. After all, your dog deserves to live the best life possible. And my final advice is "Choose wisely, and enjoy your best buddy".

Source:http://ezinearticles.com/?Considerations-in-Choosing-a-Dog&id=9932992

Is A Great Dane the Right Dog for You?

A Great Dane is a lot of things. Majestic comes to mind. Stately. Massive. Lanky. Cumbersome, perhaps. Big. They are known for their gentle nature and good personality. They are great dogs! But is a Great Dane the right dog for you?

The title question might more appropriately be: Are YOU the right human for a Great Dane? Are you in a position to take on the care-giving responsibilities that come with ownership of such a dog? Perhaps you are. Below are several matters to consider before taking on a Great Dane.

A Great Dane is a dog that is intuitive to your moods and tone of voice. They are eager to please you. Thus, they don't need to be ruled with an iron fist. No newspaper smacks or harsh scolding necessary. In fact, they are far more responsive to praise and commendation.

So before getting one of these gentle creatures, consider not only his personality and character, but your own. If you tend to be impatient or easily frustrated, a Great Dane may not be the breed for you.

Space

We're talking about an enormous dog here. Obviously, he takes up a lot of space. Even if you live in a reasonably large house, expect to be tripping over him at every turn! Part of this is because he wants to be where you are. He'll follow you around like a... well, like a puppy dog.

In fact, he will plant himself at your feet wherever you settle and be there to unassumingly trip you each time you get up. If you find this funny, go for it. But I guarantee it WILL become annoying at times. Do you have the temperament for these little annoyances.

Outdoor space needs to be considered also. He will need to stretch those long legs. Ideally you will have a yard that will accommodate that need. If not, plan on lots of long walks. And good luck keeping up with him!

Warning: 

A Great Dane is a drooler. If you have ever seen the movie Turner and Hooch (Hooch was not a Great Dane), you have an idea of what it's like to share space with a Dane. Oh, but he's SO cute and lovable!

Cost

When considering cost, we're not talking just about purchase price. If you want to own such a large breed, you have to be prepared financially for the costs of healthcare. Beyond your basic yearly vaccinations and heart worm medication, you have to consider the costs of possible surgeries or unexpected health problems.

Vets generally charge by size in such matters and the bottom line can be mind-boggling for major surgery. Large dogs such as Great Danes are prone to hip dysplasia and other crippling disorders, so healthcare must be counted into the cost.

If none of the above is a deterrent, a large breed like a Great Dane may be a good fit for you and yours. So do your homework first. Then enjoy welcoming this lovable breed into your life!

Source:http://ezinearticles.com/?Is-A-Great-Dane-the-Right-Dog-for-You?&id=8648239

How To Choose The Right Dog Breed For Your Family

At some point or another, most kids will beg their parents for a dog. Those who have had a dog before or have always wanted one may be considering giving in to their child's plea. However, before parents make any decisions, they should think about which breeds are best suited for their family.

Why is Choosing the Right Breed Important?

Like children, dogs are a lot of work. They require care, attention and exercise. If they do not get these things, they could wind up being sick or unhappy.

Because dogs rely on their owner to provide them with a good life, families should not take on dogs that they cannot handle. Choosing the wrong breed could mean that the dog and/or the family do not get their needs met.

How to Find Information on Dog Breeds

The simplest way to get information on dog breeds is to look on the AKC website. This website lists every dog breed and talks about issues such as:

Jack Russell 

- Exercise requirements. High energy dogs such as Jack Russell terriers should not be adopted unless the family has time to walk them every day.

- Grooming requirements. Some breeds require more grooming than other dogs. For instance,

Maltese terrier

Maltese terriers need to have their fur trimmed regularly. If this is not done, their hair may mat.

Labrador

- Temperament. While all dogs can sweet with the proper training, some of them have a milder temperament than others. Labradors are known for being good with children while terriers have a reputation for being "nippy" and loud.

Border Collie

- Trainability. When a dog is easily trained, life becomes much easier for the dog owner. Untrained dogs tend to misbehave more often.

Are Some Breeds Better for Children Than Others?

Highly trainable breeds are great with children as they are eager to please. Some examples of these breeds are Labradors and Golden Retrievers. Breeds like German Shepherds and Border Collies are also highly trainable.

Although, some parents would rather not get specific breeds, all breeds are good with children if they are trained and socialized properly. The size of the animal should also be considered.

Great Dane

Many people (especially men) have never imagined themselves owning a small dog. While this is fine, dogs that are too large may not be suitable for certain conditions. Large dogs require a lot of space and this could be a problem if they are living indoors. They also eat a lot more food.

Chihuahua

Small dogs such as the Chihuahua are nervous around small children. This is because smaller children tend to play more roughly than adults. A pull on a tail could lead to the dog feeling threatened and reacting aggressively.

Bichon

Finally, health problems need to be assessed. If a breed is known for having certain health problems, parents may not want to adopt the dog. Illnesses and medical problems can result in high vet bills. If anyone is allergic to dogs, a dog that does not shed much should be chosen.

Taking a little bit of time to choose the right dog is important and can make for a happy household.

Source:https://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=6058542778250350059#allposts/postNum=6

6 Big Dog Breeds That Are Gentle Giants

There is a misconception that large dogs are fierce, but this isn't the case. According to dog professionals, most of the large dogs are total softies and all they want to do is snuggle. If you have always wanted a large dog, here are 6 large dog breeds that are simply gentle giants:

Bernese Mountain Dog

Also known as the German the Berner Sennenhund, these dogs is patient and mellow. They are known to be peaceful, easygoing and great family companions. While they are large and may look lazy, they aren't. They require moderate exercises and are excellent in dog sports such as rally, herding, drafting, tracking and agility. A mature dog can weigh and average of 70-120 lbs.

Irish Wolfhound

While they look ferocious, they aren't. Professionals refer to them as true giants with gentle temperaments. The dogs were originally bred in Ireland to hunt wolves, but they make excellent family companions. They get along with almost everyone including strangers, children and other dogs. If planning on keeping these dogs you should have plenty of space. This is because they are huge. They weigh 105-120 pounds and stand at nearly 3 feet tall.

Leonberger

They get their name from their origin-Leonberg, Germany. The dogs are known to be loyal, friendly and sweet. While the dogs are great to have, you should remember that they were originally bred as search and rescue dogs. Due to this, they tend to be diggers and chewers. Leonbergers are also sloppy drinkers and eaters. This makes them not a good choice if you like keeping your home pristine. If you are ready to overlook these "flaws", the dogs are great family companions.

Newfoundland

These fluffy giants are affectionate and great family companions. They stand 26-28 inches and can weigh up to 150 pounds. While they are good with all family members, they have been shown to greatly love children. While they can exercise in the field, they are happiest when in the water or when snuggling on the couch with family members.

Bullmastiff

They are characterized by a solid build and short muzzle. The dogs' bloodlines are drawn from the extinct Old English bulldog and English Mastiff. They weigh 100-130 lbs and like snuggling with family members. Since they were originally bred to guard estates they are still good guard dogs thus can guard your home and children. They easily adapt to new environment thus can comfortably live almost anywhere.

Great Dane

They are one of the tallest dog breeds in existence. The world record holder for the tallest dog was a Great Dane named Zeus. Zeus died aged 5 years and measured 111.8 cm from paw to shoulder. Due to the dogs' large size, they can have behavior problems when improperly trained and socialized; therefore, if planning of having the dog as your pet, have him properly trained.

Conclusion

These are some of the largest dog breeds that are gentle giants. For you to get a good dog ensure that you get it from a reputable shelter.

Source:http://ezinearticles.com/?6-Big-Dog-Breeds-That-Are-Gentle-Giants&id=9392183