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

The Friendliest Dog Breeds To Own

Before considering what type of dog to purchase it is good to know which are the friendliest breeds. Typically, smaller dogs are

actually the most confrontational. Big dogs have a greater understanding of the world and are usually nicer than smaller ones. But in all reality the factor that determines the base for how friendly a dog is depends on

their genetics and breed. Here you will learn about the friendliest dog breeds so that you can make a more informed decision on which pet to choose as a lifelong partner to love and build lasting memories with.

The friendliest big dogs include: Labrador Retriever, Irish Setter, Boxer, Sstaffordshire Bull Terrier, Poodle, Greyhounds, Saint Bernard, and Shepherds. These animals are nice to other animals and respond well to human interaction as well. It is recommended to expose all of these animals to humans and other dogs and friendly pets to help socialize the animals. When an animal is socialized from an early age, or in general, they have less anxiety and in time won't react as negatively or aggressively towards other animals. Part of having a friendly pet is to train it properly and keep it happy by allowing it to interact with other creatures.

Nice small dog breeds include:

Beagle, Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier, Boston Terrier, Bulldog, Havanese, Toy Poodles, and Pugs. Look to get one of these dogs if you are interested in having a smaller 
animal that is going to respond in a friendly manner towards other dogs. The great thing

about owning a smaller animal is the fact that they are less expensive as a whole to care for. Choose your dog wisely and take into consideration how well the animal will fit in your household when you decide to add a new pet to the family.

While dogs do have innate mannerisms and behavior, nothing is more telling of how a dog acts more than how it is trained and treated. Even the friendliest dog breeds can turn out to be aggressive and confrontational if they do not understand how

to act around other animals or people. The best way to ensure your dog is friendly is to get it at a young age and train it properly. Help your animal form good habits early so that it does not lash out at others when it is in the presence of company.

Source:http://ezinearticles.com/?The-Friendliest-Dog-Breeds-To-Own&id=8875955