Some Fun Facts About Canine Obesity

It has been estimated that nearly 50% of dogs in our country are obese. This is a startling number considering the fact that we love dogs and do not want these furry companions to have any health problems. But then why is this number showing up? A major worrying factor that results in obese dogs is diseases like arthritis, high blood pressure, certain types of cancer, compromised immune function along with heart and lung disease. It has been researched and found out that dogs that maintain their ideal weight live 15% longer than those who are obese. In fact, if the obesity issue is not resolved in dogs it will shorten the lives of these furry companions.

There are certain dog owners who recognize the fact that their furry companions are a little heavy but they do not fully recognize that their doggy is obese. When a veterinarian suggests a dog owner to make his Fido lose 5 lbs. it often goes from one ear to the next without really taking things seriously. But when you compare the dog weight with human weight you will be able to understand the perspective:

Did you know that:

· 5 extra lbs. on a 12 lbs. Shih Tzu is like 58 extra lbs. on a 140 lbs. woman (This is 42% more weight of the dog than the ideal weight!)

· 5 extra lbs. on a 25 lbs. Beagle is like 28 extra lbs. on a 140 lbs. woman (This is 20% more weight of the dog than the ideal weight!)

· 5 extra lbs. on a 70 lbs. Lab Retriever is like 10 extra lbs. on a 140 lbs. woman (This is approximately 7% more weight weight of the dog than the ideal weight!)

One prime reason for obesity in dogs is overfeeding. It is as if you are pampering your furry pal for being good. But frequent and overfeeding is harmful for the dog's health as it contains lots of excessive calories that need to be burned otherwise it can result in diseases. So, in order to avoid this, follow these steps given below:

· Recognize that your pooch is overweight (Because knowing the problem is half the problem solved.)

· Consult with your veterinarian and ask them to conduct full body checkup of your pooch. It is important to know how obese your dog is and also know how many calories need to be fed to the furry pal.

· Select the best food for weight loss of the doggy. There are wide array of options available in the market to choose from. Consult your veterinarian and then choose the food that maintains lean body mass and strength in the dog.

· Follow a strict exercise regime for your doggy on a daily basis.

· Note down the weight of your furry pal in the beginning and then monitor it after regular interval.

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Popular Non Shedding Dog Breeds

Shedding is quite common with various pets including dogs. Shedding in dogs varies with breed and age. If you are allergic, you will probably want to get a dog that sheds very little. You can always go through reviews and information on the internet to research the breeds that shed the least before you make your decision on which breed is best for you. This article will discuss some of those breeds.

What breads?

These are some of the breeds that either do not shed at all or very little. Some of the most common allergens are dog's saliva, urine and of course hair. The dogs that shed the least are known as hypo-allergenic dogs. These particular dogs will be less likely to trigger flare ups. By adopting a dog that doesn't shed or at least sheds very little will allow you to enjoy your new pet.

Yorkie

The Yorkie is the most popular breed in the world. They are small and shedding is very minimal. This is a very high strung dog that can be a yapper and does require grooming.

Poodle

Poodles are available in a variety of sizes from toy to the large standard size. They also come in several colors to choose from. Poodles are very intelligent, and very trainable.

Maltese

The Maltese doesn't shed at all. Even though it is small in stature, this dog is very bold and active. However, my experience is that they make great lap dogs and are very good with children that treat them well.

Bichon Frise

Bichon Frise is a small dog. By nature, it is very playful and gentle as well. They are very popular and they look similar to a Maltese. The Bichon Frise does require a great deal of grooming. It's outgoing nature and the ability to mingle with other pets make it a great dog to have around.

Shih Tzu

The Shih Tzu is a toy breed dog that is originally from China. This dog requires brushing on a regular basis to maintain it's long silky coat. The non-shedding coat comes in a variety of colors. The dog is playful and it can be raised in small apartments.

Western Highland Terrier

Western Highland terrier is a very affectionate and friendly dog. With deep eyes and pointed ears, you can easily distinguish the dog from other breeds. It has a distinctive white coat. The dog is suitable for apartments. It does need brushing once or twice a week.

Advantages with non-shedding dogs

By choosing a non-shedding dog, it is possible to maintain the dog easily without having to vacuum daily. If someone in you family has an allergy to dogs give one of these breeds a try.

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Free Dogs

Are you looking for a new friend to snuggle with? Adopt your new friend today for free! Dogs are the most loyal animal in the world. By adopting a dog for free, you will be giving your new pet a new and safe forever home. Why pay hundreds of dollars for your new best friend when you can get it for free?!

The top 10 most popular dog breeds include the Labrador Retriever, German Shepherd, Golden Retriever, French Bull Dog, Poodle, Yorkshire Terrier, Beagle, Boxer, and Rottweiler.

If you are looking for a small dog, the Yorkshire Terrier is the smallest dog, but Chihuahuas, Pugs, Shih Tzu, Pomeranians, Poodles, and Beagles are, also, small. If you are looking for a big

dog, the English Mastiff is the largest dog, but Siberian Huskies, Saint Bernards, Rottweilers, Golden Retrievers, German Shepherds, and Labrador Retrievers are, also, big. There are different variations to all dog breeds, for instance, there are teacup dogs that are smaller than the average size of that particular breed.

It is important that you train your new friend to use the bathroom outside or on a puppy pad. Or else you will have a stinky house or apartment. You will need patience while training your dog, but some breeds are easier to train than others. Larger dogs tend to have more energy than smaller ones. Generally, the energy level increases as the size of the dog increases. You can get energy out of your dog by playing fetch, going for a walk, and getting toys for your dog. Smaller dogs often get cold easily, so if you want a small one, get a sweater for it during the Winter. Dogs with long coats need to be brushed about once a week to ensure their coats do not get damaged or mat. If you think you cannot have a dog because you have allergies, you are wrong. Hypoallergenic dog breeds include the Poodle, Maltese, Schnauzer, and Shih Tzu.

These breeds do not shed as much or at all, so they are safe for people with allergies. You, also, need to take your pet to the veterinarian to get checks up every now and then to catch medical conditions early. If you want your dog to go outdoors, make sure you get it spayed or neutered so your dog does not come home pregnant or get an abandoned dog pregnant. They are very intelligent. They can easily tell if a human is upset and usually will snuggle up to the human to make sure he or she is okay. Even if you are not upset, your new friend might try to sit on your lap or cuddle with you in bed. It depends on the breed of dog and the individual personality of them.

Each breed has its own traits, so before getting your free pet do your research to make sure your home and lifestyle can handle that type of breed! If you can open up your heart and home, you can have a free dog.

Perfect Dogs For Apartments

Apartment dwellers have special concerns when it comes to deciding to be dog owners. For one thing, the smaller space and the lack of a yard means the dog has to be fine with these conditions. This does not necessarily mean that the dog has to be small. For another thing, the dog has to be relatively quiet or it can cause problems with your neighbors over excessive barking.

If you are an apartment dweller or about to be one, do not give up on your desire to have a dog. Here are some suggestions as to the best breeds for your situation.

English Bulldogs

These are perfect for apartments. This breed enjoys relaxing most of the day, so he or she is not likely to cause much of a problem with making noise or with needing to get out frequently to play.

Pomeranians

Pomeranians are the ubiquitous choice for sophisticated cosmopolitan apartment dwellers. They are small, but they are energetic and get bored easily. For this reason, they must be allowed plenty of time outside to get exercise and have playtime.

While the breed can be yappy, there are two aspects to this to keep in mind. First, if the dog is trained properly he or she will not bark at every sound or sight around. Second, in some cases the dog's proclivity for barking at strangers at the door is a good thing. Think of a Pom as a reliable security guard, which is handy if your apartment is in a big city.

Shih Tzu

This little dog needs a lot of pampering and attention, but does not need a lot of space in which to move about. Like the English Bulldog, this breed is content to relax and spend the day resting. They do not require several walks a day to take care of business, either. One or two walks per day is all they really need.

Pugs

Pugs are great loyal dogs that love to be couch potatoes. They will love being with you and in your lap when you want it. They do not require much exercise and simply need potty time a few times a day.

Chihuahua

As with the Pomeranian, they must be trained not to bark a lot, but this tiny breed is an easy apartment fit.

If you live in an apartment give one of these dogs a try.

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