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THE AUSTRALIAN SHEPHERD
Australian Shepherd dog
The Australian Shepherd comes from a line of European herding dogs and is thought to have originated from the Basque regions of Spain and France.
Brief History
The Australian Shepherd is a herding dog breed. During the 1800’s, Australia’s Basque emigres pushed further inland to cattle farm and brought their dogs with them. The Basque Shepherd dogs were then crossed with Collies and Border Collies. After some time, the population began to immigrate to California. Farmers there took a liking to these herding dogs and named them Australian Shepherds.
Physical Features
The hard-working Australian Shepherd is a medium-sized dog that is both athletic and intelligent. With a strong head and a slightly rounded skull, this exceptionally easy-going dog has a muzzle that is equal to, or slightly shorter than, the length of the back skull. The Australian Shepherd has warm almond–shaped eyes that can be blue, brown, amber, or a combination of the three.
This breed has adorable triangular drop ears which are high set. Their tails are straight and naturally bobbed or docked. The Australian Shepherd has a double coat that is either wavy or straight. Feathered fur covers the backs of legs, thighs and neck. This breed’s coat color is either blue merle, red merle, black, red and with or without white markings.
Average Height:
18-23 inches
Average Weight:
35-75 pounds
Life Expectancy:
13-15 years
Temperament
The Australian Shepherd has a strong work drive, and is an intelligent dog breed. They are easy to train and enjoy being around family. The Aussie is sensitive, loyal, fun-loving, energetic and smart. They also make terrific guard dog and manage their posts without aggression.
The Aussie is also fantastic with children, other dogs and animals. They have a strong prey drive and also try to herd people around them. The Aussie should be kept away from small animals and sometimes cats depending on the individual dog. This high-energy breed does well with an active family and open spaces. The Aussie does well with farm life around cattle and horses.
Special Needs
The Australian Shepherd has to have a job and plenty of daily exercise. These dogs form very close bonds with their pet parents and enjoy long off-leash hikes. Aussies make good running companions after puppyhood when their bones are fully formed. The Aussie most definitely is at his best when competing in canine sports like agility, obedience and herding.
Possible Health Concerns
This breed is generally healthy. Yet there are still a few illnesses they may be prone to:
Hip Dysplasia – This is an abnormal development of the hip joint in large breeds like the Australian Shepherd. It is generally characterized by a loose joint and degenerative joint disease. Excessive growth, types of exercise, nutritional and hereditary factors all come into play with hip dysplasia.
Cataracts – This is a condition in which the lens of the eye progressively loses transparency, which often results in loss of vision. Consult with your veterinarian for advice.
Elbow Dysplasia – This is an abnormal development of the elbow joint in young, large, fast-growing breeds. It involves abnormal bone growth, cartilage development, or joint stresses. Treatment involves nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and surgery before the degenerative changes of osteoarthritis take place.
Australian Shepherd dog breed
Exercise
The Australian Shepherd is a high-energy breed that thrives on exercise. The Aussie needs to have a stimulating environment and active pet parents. Rural or countryside living with plenty of space work well for this breed. Cattle herding is an Aussie’s job preference, followed by simply being a fun-loving companion.
Nutrition
A high-quality dog food for the appropriate life stage is recommended. Pet parents should never underestimate the importance of a well-balanced diet for their Australian Shepherds. That said, a dog food that works for one Aussie, may not work for another.
Grooming
Daily grooming is necessary for this breed’s waterproof, double –layered coat. During shedding season pet parents will need to groom more frequently. Undercoat rakes will remove dead coat hair and wire brushes are great for grooming. This breed is most often outdoors, so bathing regularly is a must. The Aussie is often dirtier and smellier than other dogs when outdoors having fun. Nails, ears and teeth need regular care.
With a sweet and fun temperament, the Aussie makes a great dog breeds to adopt if you are active and have a large property. It’s not a good idea to adopt this dog breed if they will be cooped up indoors. The Aussie is too smart to do nothing all day and needs a job. Children often love this dog’s fun-loving temperament.
THE LABRADOODLE
Known for their curly fur and agreeable disposition, the Labradoodle is a cute, fun-loving and dedicated dog. It was originally bred to be a guide dog, so it always enjoys human company and always seeks to provide companionship. The Labradoodle is highly intelligent and sociable and makes a lively life companion or a family dog. Thanks to its minimal coat shedding, the Labradoodle is ideal for people with allergies.
Brief History
The Labradoodle was bred to offer day-to-day support by the Royal Guide Dogs Association of Australia. It is a cross of the Standard Poodle and the Labrador Retriever. Thanks to its calm and people-loving heritage, this dog is quite comfortable among people and other pets as well. Its origin is just as interesting as the dog itself. The very first Labradoodle was bred in 1989 for a visually-challenged woman who lived in Hawaii. Interestingly, her husband was allergic to fur, therefore her guide dog had to be hypoallergenic. The Labradoodle was born and retained the fun-loving nature of the Labrador and the intelligence of the Poodle —making it well-balanced and loving.
Physical Features
The Labradoodle can have a variety of physical features that largely depend on its genetic heritage and parentage. The Poodle and Labrador DNA in each Labradoodle’s body play a big role in determining the overall appearance of the dog. Commonly, this dog breed emerges in coat colors such as chocolate, blonde, apricot, black and charcoal.
Seeing as this dog breed is a result of breeding with a Standard size Poodle, it has a medium sized body. Its coat of fur can be soft and wavy or curly and taut. Their ears are droopy and widely considered to be one of the most attractive features of the dog.
Average Height:
21-24 inches
Average Weight:
50-65 pounds
Life Expectancy:
12-14 years
Temperament
The Labradoodle is a cool, calm and sociable dog. This is due to its heritage. It is bred from two dogs that are well known for having a cool disposition. The Poodle is intelligent and the Labrador is a social, family-oriented dog. This dog breed is cat-friendly and interacts with felines and other dogs comfortably.
Special Needs
Seeing as it is a sociable dog, the Labradoodle can suffer from separation anxiety if left alone for long periods of time.
Possible Health Concerns
Labradoodles are generally healthy dogs, however they can suffer from certain health issues. Some of these issues are eye diseases such as cataracts and progressive Retinal Atrophy, Hip dysplasia and Addison’s disease.
Labradoodle puppy
Exercise
The Labradoodle is a big dog that loves to play and have fun. This dog needs to get between 30 and 60 minutes of exercise every day. For best results, your Labradoodle should exercise by running around in a fenced yard or dog park. Here, they can thoroughly work out their lateral muscles and have a great time. This dog makes a great jogging partner as well. Labradoodles also enjoy swimming.
Nutrition
The Labradoodle is an active dog and therefore requires a diet that can support its vibrant lifestyle. You should always strive to implement a balanced diet for your Labradoodle as it can do exceptionally well with 1 to 2.5 cups of dry food served twice every day. This is best done in the morning and in the evening after their exercise sessions. By feeding your Labradoodle twice in a day, you are able to prevent cases of gastric tension.
Grooming
The Labradoodle needs some grooming conducted so as to keep their coats in great condition. While it does not shed much, the Labradoodle still requires regular care for its coat. You should brush through its fur at least twice a day. This prevents matting and bunching up of the hair.
While grooming, you should remember to cut the hair inside the ear. Also, carefully shave the fur that is near the ear canal and under the ear too. Any hair around the eyes should be trimmed as well. This needs to be done so as to prevent the fur from obstructing your Labradoodle’s vision. Proceed to trim the hair around his pads. The nails should be trimmed as well. While bathing your Labradoodle, make sure to use a gentle shampoo. The baths should be infrequent to preserve the natural oils in their hair furthermore, your Labradoodle is best left to air-dry.
The Labradoodle is a loving, intelligent and addition to any family. The dog does not require much maintenance and is generally a strong, healthy dog. The Labradoodle lives for a long time.
THE YORKSHIRE TERRIER
The Yorkshire Terrier was originally bred in the UK during the late 1800’s for the main purpose of controlling the rat population in cotton mills and mines in Yorkshire and Lancashire, England. This breed was popular amongst the working class and especially the weavers themselves.
Brief History
This breed is said to be the creation of Scottish weavers who migrated to the English north country and brought their Scottish Terriers with them. The feisty pups eventually became a popular lapdog for English socialites during the latter part of the Victorian age. The Yorkshire Terrier was originally called a broken-haired Scotch Terrier, but was renamed the Yorkshire Terrier in 1870. This breed is a descendant of the Waterside Terrier, rough coated English Terrier, Old English Black-and-Tan Terrier, Paisley Terrier, and the Clydesdale Terrier. Many Yorkies had jobs in the coal mines as exterminators. The dogs first arrived in the US in the 1870’s and were recorded in the AKC in 1885.
Physical Features
Although small, this is far from a fragile breed. Feisty, determined and loyal, the Yorkshire Terrier is a well-balanced dog with square proportions and a superb head carriage. The Yorkie has a small and flat skull with a tapered muzzle. This pup carries its head high, which portrays a sense of adorable dignity and confidence — especially with the naturally erect V-shaped ears. With a long silky coat (parted down the back), the Yorkie gives the impression of vigor and of extreme self-importance, scaring even the largest of dog breeds. Today’s Yorkies are mostly clipped for easy maintenance and grooming. Yorkie pups are born black and tan and by age two develop their adult coloring of steel and blue.
Average Height:
7-9 inches
Average Weight:
3-7 pounds
Life Expectancy:
11-15 years
yorkshire terrier
Temperament
The dainty Yorkie is a true terrier breed. Although small, this dog is tenacious, brave, loyal and fun to be around. Theu have lots of positive attitude and is always game to travel. This breed truly enjoys traveling by car, exploring local neighborhoods and getting plenty of attention. These are superb watchdogs, feisty diggers and need to be watched very carefully when out in backyards. Yorkies make for terrific best friends, but can become needy. They needs plenty of socialization and positive dog training classes starting at puppyhood.
Special Needs
The Yorkshire Terrier needs supervision around children and larger dog breeds. They also need moderate, yet regular exercise every day. This breed is extremely adaptable and does well with apartment living. Dental care and grooming are of vital importance. After all, they love being being pampered. The Yorkie needs a calm environment, and thrives on consistency with regularly scheduled feed times, walks and outings.
Possible Health Concerns
Dental Problems – They need proper dental care, including preventative methods like daily tooth brushing to prevent gum, periodontitis and endodontic disease.
Hypoglycemia –This breed may be prone to suffering from low blood sugar. It is common in Yorkies that are under 20 weeks of age, but can be corrected with a high-quality diet appropriate to the their life stage. Avoid stressful environments and excessive exercise to help prevent hypoglycemia.
Legg-Perthes Disease – This is the deterioration of the top of the femur that is often seen in smaller dog breeds. It is characterized by a lack of blood supply and destruction of the blood vessels of the bone. It is a hereditary condition in some terrier breeds. The sudden loss of blood supply to the femur leads to the collapse of the top of the femur bone. Veterinary treatment usually involves the surgical removal of the affected femoral head and neck and physical therapy so as to stimulate limb usage.
Luxating Patellas – This is a hereditary condition that is caused by the abnormal development of the kneecap (patella). X-rays will aid in seeing the severity of the displacement. Treatment usually involves surgery.
Exercise
The Yorkshire Terrier needs moderate exercise with brief bouts of fast activity like running after a tennis ball. They should never be over-exercised. The breed benefits from a few daily walks at a moderate pace. They needs the socialization involved with going to the dog park, or out and about the neighborhood. If not exercised sufficiently, this breed can become overly cranky and nervous. Yorkies are smart and benefit from regular environmental stimulation.
Nutrition
As with every dog breed, a high-quality dog food appropriate for the dog’s life stage is always recommended. They can be picky eaters and tend to favor certain foods over others. This breed is particularly easy to prepare home-cooked meals for under veterinary supervision.
Grooming
Their coats need to be maintained daily. Sometimes even twice a day if not clipped. Yorkies suffer from sensitive eyes, so the hair close to their brows needs to be tied up or trimmed. The Yorkshire Terrier should be bathed once a week and tends to enjoy a visit to the groomers. The ears also need to be checked often for signs of infection.
With a sweet and fun temperament, the Aussie makes a great dog breeds to adopt if you are active and have a large property. It’s not a good idea to adopt this dog breed if they will be cooped up indoors. The Aussie is too smart to do nothing all day and needs a job. Children often love this dog’s fun-loving temperament.
For all their talents, the Yorkie does not excel at being left home alone. With their feisty, affectionate personalities, they are more likely to try and escape out the front door or by the backyard if left alone for long periods of time — especially during the first few months after adoption. This breed adapts easily to new homes, but definitely needs a calm environment and plenty of attention.
11 Photos of Maine Coon Cats That Prove They’re the Fierce Rulers of the Cat World
Maine Coons are known as “gentle giants” or the “dogs of the cat world” because of their playful personalities and large size. They’re a favorite of the Veterinarians.com team and also our community. With their big statures and regal manner, it makes sense how well liked they are!
How to Add a Dog to a Family That Already Has Pets
At some point, there’s a good chance you’ll think about adding a dog into your furry family. While a dog can be a welcomed part of the family, some of your pets may not adjust easily to the newcomer. Their first encounter can have unpredictable outcomes, and like with people, first impressions count for a lot. So if you’re thinking of adding a dog to your home, be sure to take the following advice into consideration.
THE ARABIAN MAU CAT
The Arabian Mau was developed from an ancient desert cat that occurred naturally in the Arabian Peninsula. Although it is now commonplace as a house pet in its region of origin, the Arabian Mau cat has only gained recognition by a single breed organization, the German World Cat Federation.
Brief History
Descended from the African wild cat that lived in Middle Eastern deserts in regions throughout Oman, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and the United Arab Emirates, the Arabian Mau is one of the oldest cat breeds. Its lineage goes back a thousand years, combining genes with the Egyptian Mau and providing companionship and service to man perhaps as far back as the days of the pyramids.
Although this cat is acclimated to desert life, wild cats of the harsh and sandy elements had challenging daily searches for food. It was natural for them to frequent villages for easy pickings. From there, like cats domesticated in other parts of the world and worked their way from the alley to the hearth.
After centuries of life as a house cat, the Arabian desert cat was noticed by the director of the Middle East Cat Society, Petra Muller. She gave the cat its name, the Arabian Mau, and began arranging a breeding program. She presented the breed at the Annual General Meeting in 2008, where it was recognized as a pedigreed feline. The following year, it was admitted into cat shows and given formal breed recognition.
Physical Features
The Arabian Mau is a medium-sized cat with long legs and a tapered tail. They are most famous for their ears, which are noticeably large. Their single coats of hair are smooth and glossy and appears in three shades: tabby, bicolor and white.
Average Height:
12-14 inches
Average Weight:
8-12 pounds
Life Expectancy:
12-15 years
Temperament
The Arabian Mau is an athlete with a high prey drive. You will not have to worry about mice thriving in your house. Although, because this cat is loyal and devoted, you may find one on your pillow as a gift.
Arabian mau
Special Needs
The Arabian Mau plays vigorously and needs quality interaction with its people. It would be best served with thirty minutes of active play a day.
Possible Health Concerns
The Bombay is a healthy and moderately active cat breed that may be susceptible to the following health conditions:
Thanks to its long history as an evolving desert cat, the Arabian Mau has no known health issues. But like all cats, it will need a good diet and exercise program to maintain its vitality and prolong its life.
Exercise
Being an active desert cat, the Arabian Mau will need plenty of exercise. Giving this cat a buddy is one good way to accomplish this.
Nutrition
Like with any indoor cat, the owner should be sure not to overfeed. However, many cats are self-regulating, and highly-active breeds may have the metabolism to burn off whatever they take in. An Arabian Mau is one cat that is not prone to obesity.
Grooming
The Arabian Mau benefits from a grooming session with a soft brush every couple of days to whisk away any loose hair and distribute the natural oils throughout the coat. As grooming goes, this cat is fairly low-maintenance.
The Arabian Mau is a good choice for people who are looking for a lively, family-friendly sturdy cat with few health issues.
Veterinarians Guide to Fleas and Ticks for Pet Owners
Everything You Need to Know About Fleas and Ticks
As any pet owner will tell you, our lovable balls of fluff are prone to bringing unwanted friends of their own home; namely fleas and ticks.
These common critters can find their way on to dogs, cats and even humans – sometimes with nasty consequences.
So, what can be done to treat these bloodsucking mites and how can you prevent them in the first place?
Fleas – what are they?
Fleas are small, wingless parasites that can feed on your pet’s blood. Cat fleas for instance are dark brown and 1-2mm long. They are often picked up outdoors, and there are over 2,000 different types in the word. Adept at jumping, they are easy to pass on to other animals, as well as owners. They can be picked up anywhere, from other pets, kennels and even from the great outdoors. They can be more common in warmer months, but exist all year round.
Ticks – what are they?
Ticks are tiny blood-suckers with a spider-like appearance. They have eight legs and can range from 1mm to 1cm in size. They are typically fond of woodland and grassy areas, where they latch on to your pet. They are known for transmitting bacterial diseases, the most common of which is Lyme Disease, borne from black-legged ticks. Much like fleas, they are more common in the warmer months, but present all-year round.
How can you prevent fleas and ticks?
The first measure is to protect your pets.
If you live in a house with a large unkempt yard, try and cut back the grass, which attracts these insects. Where possible, use flea spray to prevent any outbreaks, too. While indoors, pay attention to areas where ticks and fleas can thrive; on carpets and rugs – thorough vacuuming will help keep this at bay.
Secondly, make sure your pet’s bedding area is well cleaned. Anything that could attract unwanted visitors should be cleaned or thrown away. Where possible, deep clean toys in hot water regularly, to kill any lingering bugs.
Finally, there are many treatments on the market that you can use on your pets. Not just when they are infected, but as a preventative measure. From flea combs to sprays, along with regular brushing of their coats, to reduce pests from growing. If your pet has long hair, you may want to keep this short, particularly in the warmer weather, so it is less of a breeding ground for pests.
Flea and tick collars are worthwhile solutions to help repel fleas away using chemicals that are safe for your dogs and cats. These can be picked up in most vet clinics, drug stores and pet stores, and are inexpensive.
Signs of fleas and ticks
Scratching, writing and over grooming are common signs that your pet may be housing fleas or ticks. Sometimes these can be visible to the human eye, particularly during grooming, but not always. Therefore, if you suspect that your beloved cat or dog is infected, you may want to take them to your veterinarian as soon as possible.
If you experience a continual itching and bites in succession, or believe that you have been bitten by a tick (sometimes the tick is still visible in the skin), see a professional caregiver immediately.
Treating fleas and ticks
The good news is that these bugs are easy to treat, in many forms, from powders to medicated shampoos. In the first instance, visit your veterinarian. It’s also vital to ensure that you do not use the same treatment on your dog, as your cat, as in some cases these are known to be toxic to felines. Therefore, always seek professional guidance before treatment.
You will also need to consider treating your house, from upholstery to carpets, and bedding. Anti-flea and anti-tick treatments are commonly available.
THE CHIHUAHUA
The Chihuahua originated from Mexico and is named after its home state. Although its history is vague, it is believed that both the Toltec and the Aztec cultures raised small dogs called the Techichi. Many believe this breed is one of the ancient ancestors of the modern-day Chihuahua.
Brief History
The Techichi was refined by the Aztecs into a smaller dog breed over time and became an important part of their culture. This hardy little dog lived in small villages in the mid 1800’s when travelers from the U.S developed a liking to them in Mexico. The first Chihuahua was registered in 1908 with the AKC.
Physical Features
The Chihuahua is a compact little dog and often slightly longer than they are tall. This very feisty breed has a large, rounded skull with a short pointed muzzle and large, full eyes. Their ears are large and erect with outward-pointing tips. This breed has a long, thin tail which is either carried up or in a loop over their backs.
The Chihuahua typically has either a longhaired or a short, smooth coat. They also have a large ruff around the neck and feathering on the tail, feet, and legs.
This breed may be any color with a solid, marked or splashed coat. The most common coat colors found in Chihuahua’s are fawn, sable, red, black and tan, tricolor, and brindle.
Average Height:
6-9 inches
Average Weight:
2-6 pounds
Life Expectancy:
12-20 years
Temperament
The Chihuahua has a ‘terrier-like’ attitude — a small dog with a big attitude! The Chihuahua is extremely alert, barks a lot, and is very sensitive to noise. This breed needs plenty of socialization around other dogs, animals and people from puppyhood.
The Chihuahua also does well with positive training which helps them socialize with other dogs and people. That said, this very self-reliant dog breed does not do well with children and prefers a relaxed household with an elderly adult.
If socialized from a young age, the Chihuahua is great with other animals, dogs and people, but will still need plenty of time to feel comfortable. If you’re looking for a feisty, yet sensitive buddy, the Chihuahua might be the companion for you.
This sensitive breed will need time to adjust to new surroundings and will be very nervous at first. It may take a few weeks for them to adapt, but once they’ve settled down, there’s no turning back. They have some big personality, loving companionship and lots of laughs.
Special Needs
This breed tends to get scared very easily and does not like loud noises. Pet parents need to be careful that Chihuahua does not run away when off-leash. Early socialization with other dogs, people and animals is highly recommended. Chihuahuas also tend to bark a lot when afraid.
Possible Health Concerns
The Chihuahua is an active dog breed that may be susceptible to the following:
Heart Problems. Mitral Valve Disease also known as MVD occurs when the mitral valve thickens and degrades over time. Coughing and difficulty breathing are symptoms.
Eye Diseases. Dry eye is a common eye problem in this breed and has the potential to cause blindness. Consult with your veterinarian if you notice excessive blinking, sticky or red eyes.
Patellar Luxation. This happens when the kneecap is dislocated. If left untreated it can lead to arthritis.
Exercise
The Chihuahua needs regular daily walks and off-leash trips to the dog park. Although this breed is small, exercise is crucial for good health and mental stimulation. That said, the Chihuahua enjoys going everywhere. Trips to the mall, bookstore and grocery store are always welcome! This breed also enjoys hanging out at home and is very easy to look after.
Nutrition
Some Chihuahua’s pick up weight easily, and can quickly become obese. Pet parents should never underestimate the importance of a well-balanced diet. Chihuahua pet parents should assess their dog’s activity level, age, breed, and any medical conditions that he or she may be prone to. Consulting with your veterinarian about the best high-quality food options will help to give your Chihuahua a longer and healthier life. Providing your Chihuahua with fresh fruits, salmon, chicken, vegetables, minerals and fiber are a plus.
Grooming
The Chihuahua does a fair amount of self-cleaning. That said, daily grooming is always recommended along with regular bathing, brushing teeth, ear cleaning, and nail trimming. Visits to the veterinarian are recommended for teeth cleaning twice a year. Dental hygiene is crucial in small dogs. The Chihuahua enjoys being bathed, and if long haired, does well at the groomers. Occasional shedding may occur!
