Monday, June 27, 2011

Stud Dogs - How to Find a Stud Dog

Making the decision to let your bitch have a litter of puppies is quite complex and requires a huge amount of effort on your part to find the perfect stud dog as this is one of the most important aspects of dog breeding.


Once you have considered the expense involved and upheaval associated with dog breeding and have come to the decision that it is the right choice for you, you can then begin your search for the stud dog that will be the perfect sire for your litter of pups. With the advent of the Internet, finding a dog is much easier now than it used to be as many people advertise the services of their stud dogs online.


Many owners may look at show dogs to sire a litter of puppies; they may seek stud dogs with a champion lineage and a long line of awards. However, this can prove to be extremely expensive and for many owners is just not affordable. Making use of a dog directory is a good way to find a selection of stud dogs that would be perfect for your bitch, although you must still carry out certain checks to ensure suitability.



Suitability checks


Unfortunately, some dog owners are only interested in breeding to make a huge profit and these owners should be avoided. This type of owner could take little interest in the health and welfare of their dog, which can have an adverse effect on the litter of puppies.


Some breeds have a disposition to certain hereditary weaknesses and care should be taken that the stud dog and indeed the bitch have been thoroughly health checked to avoid these conditions being passed to the puppies. For instance, Golden Retrievers are known to be genetically prone to heart disease, hip dysplasia, cataracts and eye abnormalities plus skin conditions and epilepsy. This doesn't mean that your Golden Retriever will have these conditions but health screening of dogs will help to avoid the chance of developing these conditions. Many dog breeds have genetic conditions that they should be health screened for, as responsible breeding is the only way to have a litter of healthy, desirable pups.


Arranging to meet


When you contact the owner of a dog through a directory it is advisable to arrange a meeting so the dogs become familiar with each other and so that you can ascertain whether the owner of the dog has had health checks carried out. Stud dogs that conform to the breed standard may be preferable as any deviation from the breed can be classed as 'undesirable' by many breeders of show dogs.


When you visit the dog's owner make sure that the dog is kept in good condition and appears healthy with a happy, laid back nature. If there are other dogs present check that they are well cared for too as this will give an indication of whether the owner has a genuine interest in the welfare of their dogs, and not just looking to make money. A stud dog directory will make the search for a perfect sire much easier but you should take care that the dog is a suitable candidate for breeding. Viewing a selection of stud dogs will help you make the right choice.


The author has owned dogs all her life and has over 15 years experience of dog breeding and stud dogs, having cared for more than 30 dogs. Vivien is one of the main authors on Dream Dogs, a site dedicated to news and articles for dog lovers with an emphasis on stud dogs, breeding and raising healthy puppies.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Vivien_Richardson

Saturday, June 18, 2011

DNA Testing For Dogs

Everyday newspapers and online ads are offering up dogs for sale. Dogs of every breed shape and size are available for a price. If you look closely and are an astute negotiator sometimes you can find what seems to be a bargain. You may be offered a 'non-papered' purebred, which means getting the dog you want at a reduced price.

But are you getting what you ordered? What looks like a purebred may, not be a purebred after all. Papers can be falsified or, as noted above, there may not be papers at all. If only you could see into your dog's DNA would you be able to tell what breed he actually is.

Alternatively, you may be looking for that ideal mixed-breed. You may specifically seek out a combination of breeds that will be the perfect fit for your lifestyle. A solid hunting dog, a running companion, a calm complacent dog for your elderly mother or a delicate portable pet to be the child you never had. Regardless of what you are looking for it's not always obvious to confirm that that is what you've ended up with. Animal shelter and rescue organizations know full well that some breeds are more popular than others and the dogs that can be categorized as 'part' of a favourable breed will likely find a home sooner that a dog who's DNA may suggest a less popular breed affiliation.

In any case, whether you've purchased a puppy, adopted a young dog or been to a shelter and rescued a dog, as the dog ages, its mannerisms and behaviours may not suit the breed characteristics that you had anticipated. An option that is now available to dog owners everywhere is dog DNA testing. There are multiple websites offering this service.

There are many benefits to dog DNA testing. Dog owners know that particular breeds can have particular strengths and weaknesses whether it be in regard to training, behavioural mannerisms or possible future health concerns. Knowing what breed or breeds are in your dog's make up will allow you to take preventative health measures. A greater understanding of your dog's DNA make up may also impact your approach to training or at least greater patience if you're dealing with a more challenging breed.

Conversely, some dog owners undertake dog DNA testing simply in the spirit of fun and interest. Giving a breed name to your faithful family pet only adds to their appeal. Instead of answering the inevitable question with 'oh he's a mixed-breed', dedicated owners will revel in telling people he's a 'Labraspanhound', or a 'Huskpomtzoodle' instead.

Undertaking the actual test using the online kits available is a very simple and painless procedure. Contrary to popular belief, a blood sample is not required. The process simply involves taking a cheek swab (using the materials provided by the testing company), and sending the swabs in for testing. It is important to follow the exact steps in the kit to ensure accurate test results. Results take from four to six weeks depending upon the lab you are dealing with.

I'm a Canadian dog lover, dog blogger, and dog enthusiast, living life to the fullest on Canada's west coast.

http://www.westcoastdogs.com
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Sarah_Ritchie

Thursday, June 16, 2011

Distemper in Dogs - Home Detection Tips

Distemper: Spotting This Dog Killer Before it's Too Late

Canine distemper is a devastating disease. It often crops up in seemingly healthy pets without any warning. What's more, distemper often mimics benign problems, like the common cold. This is truly the most insidious aspect of this illness. Sadly, many cases progress to the point where they are no longer treatable before the owner even realizes what's happened.

How to spot the early signs of distemper

First and foremost, understand that distemper can often be diagnosed very early if regular trips to the veterinarian are scheduled and kept. This cannot be stressed enough, especially for new puppies! Because afflictions like distemper most often strike very young pups when they have weaker immune systems, it's crucial that owners visit the vet often in the first few weeks of life. Early diagnosis means a chance to survive distemper.

Owners who suspect distemper, but haven't had the animal seen by a vet yet, can detect it by a couple of signs. First, yellowish-green or dark green discharge from the eyes and nose is a classic symptom. It's often accompanied by sneezing and general lethargy. Unfortunately, many pet owners assume this is just a sign that their dog has contracted a cold or has allergies and they ignore it.

If you remember nothing else about what you read here, remember this: any greenish discharge from the eyes or nose means distemper is a real possibility. RUSH your pet to the vet at the first sign! In most distemper cases, the only chance your puppy or dog has is early detection and aggressive medical therapy.

While distemper can manifest differently from one dog to the next, another hallmark of it is constant shaking or twitching. This happens in the more advanced stages of the disease, when the infected dog's neurological system has been compromised and muscles fire continuously. Unfortunately, by this stage it's rarely treatable and the humane step is euthanasia. Having said that, always get your pet checked out thoroughly to rule out some other condition that may be causing the tremors. You never know. Dogs are like people, in that they are susceptible to a wide range of illnesses and diseases that can share very similar symptoms. Never assume!

It isn't easy for pet owners to prevent diseases as serious as distemper. It's infamous for sneaking up on otherwise healthy puppies. But starting a new puppy out right - with good nutrition and regular visits to the vet for vaccinations and check-ups - will go a long way toward keeping him healthy and disease-free. Know and watch for the signs of distemper and your dog will have a strong ally in you!

Are you looking for ways to bring in more free traffic to your website? Pick up a copy of John's tips on article writing and learn how to create articles that become traffic magnets.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=John_Schwartz

Canine Distemper

What is Canine Distemper?

Canine distemper is a highly contagios disease caused by a virus (paramyxovirus) which attacks the respiratory, gastrointestinal, and nervus systems of dogs. Although dogs are the most commonly affected, Canine Distemper is also seen in foxes, ferrets, mink and many other carnivores. These infected animals are often the cause of the spread of this disease to domesticated dogs.

At normal temperature the virus can remain active in infected tissue for several weeks, provided the infected source does not dry out, or become exposed to ultraviolet radiation (sun light). At below zero, the virus can remain active for several months. At temperatures of 32°C or greater, the Canine Distemper virus will be destroyed very quickly.

How can the Virus spread?

Canine Distemper is spread through bodily secretions (nasal fluid for example} The most common form of transmission is airborne. Dogs become infected by breathing in particles secreted by infected hosts. For several weeks after recovery, a dog will still carry the virus which can lead to further contamination if not properly quarantined.

What are the symptoms?

Upon contracting the virus, dogs often appear "normal" for several days. The initial symptoms of the disease are runny nose, water eyes and a sore throat. The dogs temperature will increase to approximately 103.5°F (39.7°C). Over the next couple of days the symptoms worsen with the tonsils becoming enlarged, and the dog developing diarrhea. After approximately four weeks of treatment the virus begins to affect the brain. The dog will start twitching which will gradually turn in to larger convulsions The convulsions normally become so frequent and violent, that euthanasia is often carried out at this stage.

Are all dogs at risk?

Yes. Puppies younger than 4 months of age, and dogs who have not received vaccination, are at the greatest risk of infection. However, all dogs are susceptible to the virus. Canine Distemper was at one time the leading cause of deaths in domesticated dogs. Due to understanding of the virus and the ability to treat secondary symptoms, Canine Distemper only become a concern in isolated outbreaks.

What is the treatment for Canine Distemper?

At this time, there is no cure for the actual virus which causes Canine Distemper.. Treatment mainly consists of controlling spread and severity of secondary ailments such as , vomiting, diarrhea and fluid discharge. In the later stages of canine distemper, the use of anti-consultant drugs may help to control twitches and spasms. Constant nursing care is needed to make the dog as comfortable as possible.

Is there anyway to prevent canine distemper?

Have your dog vaccinated!!! Pups should be vaccinated at 6 weeks of age, and re-vaccinated every 3-4 weeks until 16 months old. Adult dogs should be vaccinated every year. Like most disease, prevention is often the only viable solution. Be cautions of where you are taking your dog. Since the most common transmission of Canine Distemper is air born, dog parks, kennels, even grooming facilities can be ideal places for dogs to contract the virus. Raccoons, skunks, foxes, and other carnivores are often the catalysts for outbreak. For this reason ALWAYS be cautions of wild animals. Never let your dog have contact with an unknown animal.

Ths website only provides BASIC information about canine distemper, your veterinarian is always your best source of health information. Consult your veterinarian for more information about Canine Distemper and its prevention.

For more great articles and tons of other great info visit our Dog forum, visit Ron's blog or visit our Pet blog
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Ty_Magnum





Tuesday, June 14, 2011

Wiener Dog Race (Гонка Винера собак)

Dachshund racing, or wiener dog racing, is a popular, yet controversial sporting event, primarily found in North America. Typical Dachshund races are either 25 or 50 yards in length, and are run on various surfaces. Many race tracks across America host these events as fundraising or publicity events, and routinely draw the venues' largest attendance numbers of the year.





In the less formal events, most entrants are not career racers, nor bred for racing. Often, dogs will choose not to run the length of the course and instead visit with other dogs or the owner that released them. Otherwise, dogs will run swiftly to their owner at the finish line, coaxed by food or toys.




The de facto national championship of wiener dog racing is the Wienerschnitzel Wiener Nationals, held in San Diego, California every December as part of the Holiday Bowl, however there are many other venues that claim title to the true "national champion".

Australian Koolie or German Coolie (Австралийский Koolie или немецкий Кули)


The Koolie or Coolie, also known as the Australian Koolie or the German Koolie is an Australian dog breed. Specifically, it is a herding dog, a subcategory of a working dog. Koolies have existed in Australia since the early 19th century, established through old photos owned by elder Koolie breeders and personal records such as diaries.


He Koolie Club of Australia defines the breed based on its ability to work rather than on its conformation. However, most Koolie breeders refer to the Koolie as a breed rather than as a type, and assert that it "breeds true", with various types or strains within the breed.


Many countries will gather their working dogs under the same category like Germany with their herding dog breeds all classed as Altdeutsche Hütehunde (heading dogs). New Zealand not only classify their breeds this way, but they also grade them by their working traits. Koolies in New Zealand are registered as a "heading dog": A dog which has a natural instinct to cast out (i.e., circle widely), round sheep and bring them back to their owner. The Koolie is known as a silent working dog. They are used for “heading” sheep and also for quiet careful work at close quarters at lambing time or for “shedding” (cutting out) sheep. It is only through the registrar of the Australian Koolie Club that these bloodlines remain an integral part of the breed and are active contributors to the Koolie gene pool. New Zealand Koolie breeders are working towards having the Koolie recognised under their own breed name as they have been in Australia.

The Koolie is as diverse as the country it originates from, Australia. In the north of Queensland and New South Wales they are tall, medium boned and agile, bred for mustering Simmental Cattle and Brahma over many miles. In The Hunter Valley region and Snowy Mountains of New South Wales, they're thicker set and shorter to flush low lying cattle from the dense bush and gullies. In Victoria, one finds the smallest variety of the Koolie. Koolies are bred to meet the needs of the stockman, grazier and farmer, all agile, all with the same ability to adapt to any situation, all with a strong willingness drive. The Koolie vary from 40 to 60 centimetres (16 to 24 in) in size and are a contrast of coat, colour and body type, although they are merled coat pattern. The solid red or black Koolie are often mistaken for Kelpies, and some bi coloured Koolie have been taken for Border Collies by the general public, rarely if ever by breeders. As all of these breeds share Collie ancestry, they resemble each other.




Koolie Dog Directory

- Kelpie, German Coolie, Stumpy Tail Cattle Dog, and Australian Cattle Dog information including origins.
- Offers rehoming for unwanted and neglected animals, information on the breed, success stories and details of available animals. Australia. 
- This international registry was created to preserve and maintain the pedigrees and historical records of the German Coolie breed. Contains photo gallery, facts and myths, breed standard and genetics. 











 




 

Entlebucher Mountain Dog (Собака энтлебухер гора)

The Entlebucher Sennenhund or Entlebucher Mountain Dog is the smallest of the four Sennenhunds, a dog type that includes four regional breeds. The name Sennenhund refers to people called Senn, herders in the Swiss Alps. Entlebuch is a municipality in the canton of Lucerne in Switzerland. The breed is also known in English as the Entelbuch Mountain Dog, Entelbucher Cattle Dog, and similar combinations.

The Entlebucher Sennenhund is a square, sturdy, medium-sized dog. It has small, triangular ears and rather small brown eyes. The head is well proportioned to the body, with a strong flat skull. The long jaw is well formed and powerful. The feet are compact supporting its muscular body. The smooth coat is close and harsh with symmetrical markings of black, tan, and white. This tricolor coat has white on its toes, tail-tip, chest and blaze; the tan always lies between the black and the white. It has muscular broad hips. The hocks are naturally well angled. The tail is sometimes docked, a practice which is now prohibited by law in many countries, or it may have a natural bobtail.Height at the withers is 19-20 ins (48–50 cm) and weight is 45-65 lbs (20.5–30 kg).
As with all large, active working dogs, this breed should be well socialized early in life with other dogs and people, and be provided with regular activity and training. Temperament of individual dogs may vary, the Standard says that the breed is "Good-natured and devoted towards people familiar to him, slightly suspicious of strangers.





Entlebucher Mountain Dog Directory
- Breed club. Contains information on health, characteristics, club membership and approved breeder list. 
- Code of Ethics Breeders of the National Entlebucher Mountain Dog Association. Current breeding stock has been approved for breeding by the Swiss Entlebucher Club in Switzerland. Quebec, Canada.
- Dedicated to preserving and protecting the Entlebucher Sennenhund. Breed information including health, membership, events and Code of Ethics breeder list. 
- Family page of Entlebucher puppies featuring dam Eula of Der Viking Kennels, plus general dog information with an emphasis on the Entlebucher.
- Breeder with kennel history, photographs, and information regarding the Entlebucher's breed characteristics, temperament, and abilities. Ohio.