What the Japanese Chin Means to Its Native Country

The Japanese Chin dates back to the year 732, throughout time the importance of the breed to the country of Japan has never wavered or changed, and the dog is still owned by various members of Japanese royalty. Originally the breed was named the Japanese Spaniel; the dog was first believed to hail from Korea and then later showed up in Japan. In the 16th century, the Japanese Chin was highly sought after in Japan. The women of Japan carried the dogs in small baskets lined with silk and spoiled them unmercifully. When someone killed a Chin in Japan, it was treated the same as a human killing and punished in the same manner.

From the time breed was developed in China, the dog was meant to be representative of royalty. The Chin was bred to serve two purposes; one being a royal companion dog to the Imperial Palace females and the other to warm the laps of Chinese aristocrats. The dog could not be owned or gifted to just anyone, the breed was distinctly reserved for nobility and gifted to foreigners or diplomats who served Japan.

During the 1850's, Commodore Perry on a trip to Japan was preparing to open the country for world trade. Upon his arrival, Perry was given several Japanese Chins' as a gift, when he gave a pair of the dogs to Queen Victoria of England; the breed became extremely popular in Europe. When Commodore Perry gifted the President of the United States with a Japanese Chin, the dogs were first brought into America. Once the dog was introduced to other parts of the world, popularity only grew.

The number of Japanese Chins dropped during World War I and natural disasters such as earthquakes almost entirely eliminated breeders. The main reason the breed survived is because many owners and breeders hid the dogs, even at the risk of imprisonment. In 1964, the country of Japan adopted the Chin as one of the national symbols and the Chin has since appeared on many postage stamps as well.

Every Japanese house of nobility that has owned Chins has bred the dog, with each cycle of breeding the dog was made to live up to their ideal. This is the main reason why the dogs breed has resulted in so many different sizes and types of Japanese Chins. In the desire to get the Chin to resemble a cat, they inbred the dog with a cat. The attempt was successful in that they produced a Chin which could jump and climb much like a cat, using its front paws in a very adept manner. The dog was so important to Japanese nobility that they did not even think of it as a dog, but rather as their own special creation.

Catherine Cross was the person who is most credited with saving the Japanese Chin dog breed. She was integral in bringing many Japanese Chins back to Japan after World War II, saving the dog breed from near extinction after so many were killed during the war. Today, the Japanese Chin is still considered to be extremely rare and to the Japanese, a most sacred dog breed.

GreatDogSite is the best place on the web to find Information on Japanese Spaniels and other dog breeds!

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Potty Training a Beagle Puppy

Potty training a beagle puppy can seem like a simple task, and it is, but some beagles are more stubborn then others and it may take time to potty train your beagle puppy. While it isn't hard, you will need to supervise your puppy when he or she is in the house. This will help cut down on accidents because your puppy may try to tell you that they need to go to the bathroom either by whining, are scratching at the floor. If you see this, it may be your pup trying to tell you that they need a bathroom break.

The best way to start potty training a beagle puppy is crate training. This works because your puppy will not want to go to the bathroom where they eat or sleep. You can then use this to your advantage by leaving your puppy in his crate for an hour or two, then taking him outside to go potty and play. This will help your beagle get into a routine and help learn to control his bladder.

Paper training also works but really should be avoided if possible because your beagle will get into the habit of going on paper in your house. This is not always desirable because the whole point of potty training is to get your beagle to go to the bathroom outside not inside. It does have some benefits though such as covering your floor with paper so he doesn't damage it. But then when it comes time to go outside, he may look for a spot covered with paper which may confuse him if he doesn't find it.

The main thing you should remember is to be persistent and stay determined when potty training a beagle puppy. Doing so will greatly help your puppy realize that you want him to go potty in a certain spot. And after your beagle is potty trained you can relax and enjoy your wonderful dog.

Potty training a beagle puppy is not always an easy task. If you have tried but still need help, don't give up, go to http://www.squidoo.com/house-training-a-beagle

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Getting Started With Dog Crate Training

Dog Crate Training

You know what it is like. You have collected your new dog and very excited to have a new friend. All you want to do is love and cuddle him, but you know deep down the training starts as soon as you get him home. Do you crate train or not? Dogs' instincts will help with this sort of training as they are by nature den animals and he will therefore feel happy and secure in his crate. Because of this he will not want to soil where he sleeps. This will make house training a lot easier for you. Your part in crate training your dog is to persuade him that the crate is his bed now.

Dog crate training involves rewarding a dog for entering the crate and staying in there.The idea is to use the crate as part of a play session, letting the dog feed in the crate, and having your dog explore and use until it is part of his daily life. Always pick a crate that is the right size for your dog. The crate needs to be just big enough for the dog to stand in and turn around. If the crate is too big it defeats the purpose of crate training.

When your new dog or puppy first gets home and he is first in his crate he might howl and cry wanting to get out. Expect this and restrain yourself. It is very natural for your dog to be out with you. Remember you need to let him know where his place is in the family unit. Crate training is the best way to house train your dog or puppy and if you let him out and allow him to free reign in your house be prepared for the mess that will surely happen.

Getting started with dog crate training.

Make the crate a comfortable, pleasant place for your dog. It is a good idea to let him have his favourite toy in the crate with him. It can be a toy or a piece of clothing he is fond of but if your dog destroys these things then minimise what goes into the crate.

Associate the crate with pleasant things so feed him in his crate and give him reward treats.
If he has had an accident scold him then put him outside and not in the crate. If you scold him then put him in his crate he will associate bad feelings with the crate and will make training him very difficult.
When it is time to put your dog in the crate at night, leave him and do not keep checking him. He will settle down in his own time.

It is worth remembering that your dog will mess his crate at some point. Try not to put anything in his den that cannot be easily cleaned. Crate training works though because your dog does not really want to mess his den so will encourage him to hold it for as long as possible. Take him outside in the garden or open area at night before you put him in his crate for the night. In the morning put your dog out as early as possible.

Remember young puppies cannot hold their bladder for too long. When they are younger than 12 weeks they really need to go outside every couple of hours or so. You will have to use your own judgement on the duration you keep your dog in his crate.

Make the crate training positive

Always do your best to make the crate a positive experience. Never use the crate as a punishment. You want your dog to see his crate as somewhere safe. When you first use the crate be prepared for your puppy or dog to make a fuss. Your dog will get used to his crate even though to begin with he will cry and howl but have patience because crate training your dog is the right decision. Give your dog lot of treats when he goes into his crate and he will eventually go in on his own accord. As with any kind of dog training take it slowly as you do not want your dog or puppy to feel uncomfortable.

Is dog crate training cruel?

Some people look upon crate training as cruel to dogs. Obviously if you leave your dog in his crate for hours at a time, it is. When you are at home let your dog out of the crate. Sometimes it will be impossible to be at home during the day, when you are at work for instance, try to get someone to take him out for a walk or consider taking your dog to a doggie daycare if possible. This will also help your dog mix with other dogs as well.

When you need to travel in your car and you take your dog with you, a crate is the safest way for your dog to travel. It will keep him from getting in your way and causing havoc if he sees a cat or other animal on the side of the road or in a field. If your dog is already used to a crate it will help him to go into the crate without feeling stressed. All in all less stressful for you as well.

It is really up to you whether you decide to crate train. Use it properly and it will help with your house training which it turn means a happier dog and a happier you.

Enjoy training your dog.

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Slow the Onset of Dog Arthritis

As a pet owner it is important to be aware of one of the most common ailments of dogs of any breed, especially after the age of ten. Many dogs will suffer with arthritis as they age. Whether the dog arthritis is mild to severe it is important to take steps to slow the progression of the disease. One of the most effective ways to do this is to slow the onset of arthritis through diet and exercise.

It is extremely important to feed your dog moderately to help make sure that he or she does not begin to put on extra weight. Many dog foods which can be purchased in the grocery store are high in fat. They are essentially "doggy junk food". By limiting the amount of food that is not good for a dog's diet, you will help your dog live a more comfortable life. When a dog is overweight they can find jumping, walking, playing to be difficult. If your dog already has poor joint health, then excess weight will cause increased pressure which in turn will lead to increased pain and discomfort. In addition to arthritis poor dog nutrition can also lead to other very serious health problems with the heart and lungs.

Another vital preventative measure against the start of arthritis in your beloved pet is to make sure that the dog is getting enough exercise. This is especially helpful to start when the dog is just a puppy. By starting young you will establish a healthy routine which will make it easier to continue. While exercising too much can actually be harmful if your dog has arthritis, it is very therapeutic. When the joints are moved and worked out, then they are lubricated. Lubricating the joints help to keep them from becoming as stiff as they would be with little movement. However, if your dog already exhibits the symptoms of arthritis, then it is important to make exercise minimal or in shorter lengths of time.

Finding and investing in a good dog bed is another essential ingredient for your dog's joint health. There are many styles that will not cramp a dog into a small space, but will also provide warmth and comfort. Dogs with arthritis do not like cold weather, as is the same with humans.

Finally, dog arthritis can also be prevented by giving your dog herbal supplements and veterinarian prescribed vitamins, minerals and pain relievers. Some people use omega 3 fats, bee products, joint herbs to give a dog's nutrition the extra boast that it needs. Some owners will even get their dogs shots which can help relieve the pain of their arthritis for extended periods of time.

Prevention is the best therapy for slowing the onset of dog arthritis. Keeping your dog healthy while they are young will help you to slow the risk of arthritis.

While there may be no sure fire dog arthritis remedy, the best thing you can do to lessen the effects is to give your dog dog supplements with glucosamine. I prefer Proud Dog Complete Wellness, the all in one complete dog supplement with 24 vitamins and minerals to promote your pets good health. For more information, visit ProudDogHealth.com.

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

Wood Dog Crates, Classier Than Plastic

Pets can be a friendly addition to the family, but sometimes they compromise your home much more than you would have expected. They chew up your shoes, they have accidents on the floors and carpet, and many feel as though they need to hide the dog cage because it does not fit in with the rest of the furniture in the house. Wood dog crates could be the perfect solution which will make your dog feel more comfortable without compromising the beauty of your home.

There are many advantages of wood dog crates over plastic or wire crates. The first advantage of wood crates is the way they look in your home next to your other furniture. There are many wood dog crates that will blend right in with your other furniture and they come in all types of wood, colors, and styles to match your furniture. There are classic wooden box designs available and some even have wicker siding to add more beauty. Cushions and padding designs will also be easier to match with the wood dog crate.

Another advantage of wood dog crates is their versatility. They will generally be longer lasting than plastic or wire crates and you have the option of putting them indoors or outdoors without getting damaged. Wood dog crates are also much more durable, whether they are inside the home or outside in the rain and sun. Many types of wood are water and pest resistant and they are also easy to clean and care for. Weak locks on plastic or wire crates will also no longer be an issue, as most locks are bolted tightly into the wood dog crate, making it difficult for your pet to escape.

Another advantage of wooden crates are the styles and designs available. Some of the crates have multiple doors on the top as well as the side, making cleaning the crate much easier. Some even have a detachable or adjustable door on one side so your pet can decide whether to go in or out or even relax with its paws hanging out of the side.

Another advantage of the wood dog crate is how it can become two pieces of furniture instead of just one. Often, they can fit right in with your other furniture and act as a coffee or end table. Some even have small shelves on top to place papers or magazines. These wood dog crates can be used as a nightstand in the bedroom or an extra shelf in the bathroom.

One of the more important aspects of a wooden crate is the fact that your dog will love it too. Dogs are very social creatures and they would rather be around their family or in a social area while locked up in a cage. Especially when they are training, dogs should be put in their crates in a room where they can be seen and heard at all times. You will also feel much less guilty about leaving the dog in the cage when they have constant company and hiding your dog because of its unattractive cage is no longer an issue.

Always make sure your dog is not prone to scratching or chewing before purchasing a wood dog crate because these crates can be more expensive than plastic or wire crates.

Kristen Duwe is a freelance writer. She writes about Wood Dog and Wood Dog Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Kristen_Duwe

Wood and Dogs Go Hand-In-Hand

From houses to beds to crates, there are many wood products available for your dog which will fit your lifestyle. Wood dog products are a good choice for your dog because of their durability and natural look inside the home.

The most popular wood dog product is the house. These houses range from the simplest to the most complex of designs and styles. Luxury palaces and even duplexes are available to make your dog look like royalty. Cedar or redwood dog houses hold up very well under harsh weather conditions and resist warping or rotting with little care and maintenance. Wood dog houses are a great way to keep your dog dry and comfortable when it is outside and some are even built with insulation.

Wood dog houses can make great gift ideas for family or friends with canines because they can be personalized by carving, engraving, or painting. Building a dog house made of wood can also be a great gift idea or a fun project to do with your children and it will be easy to personalize it yourself.

Another popular item for pet owners is the wood dog crate. The crates fit in very naturally with your existing indoor furniture and are available in all sizes, styles, and designs. Wood dog crates are also a great investment because they can function as a dog shelter as well as a coffee table, end table, or nightstand. They are very versatile and easy to clean and you will no longer have to leave your dog locked in a room because of an unattractive crate. Most crates hold up outside as well as inside and are easy to clean and maintain.

There are also beds available for those dogs who love sleep comfortably. Wood dog beds often are made as detailed and fancy as human beds. There are even sleigh style beds, canopy beds, and sofa style beds on the market for families with a high-maintenance canine companion. Whatever the style, these wood dog beds are usually extremely durable and will last a long time. Accessories can also be purchased for the bed including blankets, cushions, and pillows of many different colors and patterns.

A wood dog gate can also be a useful product to purchase for your dog and your home. Your dog will have a much more difficult time knocking down or biting the locks on a wood gate than a plastic gate. They will also blend in more naturally with your furniture and will not stick out like plastic gates, especially near stairwells and door frames.

If you hate the fact that your puppy eats off the floor, a wood dog dish holder is a nice product that can look great in any home. These can be made tall or short depending on the height of your dog and can eliminate the frustrating feeling of knocking over the food or water dishes on the floor. These dish holders are designed like a coffee table with holes to fit a water dish and a food dish snugly. Some even come with a drawer on the front to hold food or other dog supplies.

Kristen Duwe is a freelance writer. She actively writes about Wood Dog and Wood Dog

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

When to Breed a Dog

An interest and love for pooches has created a desire for you to want to be a breeder. So, you have decided on a dog to breed and your waiting for the best time to begin breeding, but your question is when to breed a dog? Read through and know when to breed a dog!

Female dogs will generally start being in heat as it approaches its six months. However, every dog is differnt, some may begin being in heat in the 7th month or maybe even 8th. No matter when it begins, it will always reoccur every 6 months. Generally most breeders will wait for the females third cycle of being in heat before they will begin to breed. Typically the femail would be around one and half years old and would be an adult that is ready to mate.Always consult your local veterinarian before deciding to allow your dog to mate.

One very important thing to do is make sure your dogs, male and female, are in the greatest of health.A part of keeping them healthy is keeping all of their vaccinations up to date. You should also check to see if your vet recommends for your dogs to be a certain diet.Your veterinarian's advice is always superior and better than any other information you can receive from the Internet or books. Information collected from books or the internet still provide great information and should not be discredited. The information you receive from these sources will help you when talking with the vet.

To know when to breed a dog there are signs you can look for. }Checking her vulva is one sign. It should be noticeably swollen up to one week before her bleeding finally begins. It is very crucial to call the vet on the first day of the heat cycle. It is also very important to get the service of a vet if you want to have artificial insemination done. In case of emergency, you should choose a vet in your local area.

Know when to breed a dog with more of the following signs. Another sign to know when to breed a dog is when it is getting close to the time of breeding you see her licking herself more frequently than before.Feeding her will also be harder. Another sign is flagging.The time the female dog holds or reaches her tail from one side is known as flagging. You may also see changes in her behavior or personality.

One thing you can do to check your female dogs fertility is to have your veterinarian do blood tests. If the male dog is present, he will also let you know. The male dog will frequently check on the bitch to check if it is already the right time.

Your female dog should be ready for mating after the 12th day her bleeding began.Her flow will slow down and become lightly pink. She will stand still for the male dog.

I hope the tips above have given you a better understanding of how to know when to breed a dog.

When it comes to breeding your dogs, grab all the info you can and Click Here. to get The Top 10 Most Important Questions to Ask When To Breed a Dog. I'm a dog breeder too and I benefited from this guide, but more importantly, the families loved how I had set things up (all found in this guide) and the puppies and dogs got the best treatment possible. In any event, the best of luck to you!

I love animals, especially dogs. I love to breed and want to share my experience and knowledge with you. Learn everything you must know before beginning to breed a dog. Click here

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An Owner's Responsibility For Having a Well-Trained Dog

There are very few to possibly no exceptions to the rule that a poorly behaved dog is the responsibility of the owner. Dogs are usually very easy to train and there really is no excuse to have a dog that behaves badly.

If you are going to be a dog owner, the most important thing that you will need to do is to establish a pack order. You must be the alpha dog. Dogs are natural pack animals and they adhere closely to pack order. You and every human member of the family must be above the dog in the pack order. That means that when a human family member speaks, they listen and obey.

Dogs are unlike humans. They cannot reason. You are not being mean to your dog when you insist that he obeys you. You have to be the leader and he will love you more for it.

In order for your dog to be safe and your family to be happy, you need to be able to control your dog. When you say, "stop" he needs to stop. When you say, "Sit", he needs to sit. In short, when you are the leader of the pack, he needs to respond to you and when you establish yourself as the leader he will always respond to you.

There are a few tips that are important to consider when training your dog. First off, dogs respond to positive reinforcement. You can always get better results with praise and treats than you can with negative reinforcement, such as anger and yelling.

It is best to ignore bad behavior while rewarding good behavior. If you respond to bad behavior you could end up creating fear in your dog instead of obedience and compliance. Also, again remember that dogs cannot reason. They truly do not understand why you are angry at them.

In order to reinforce behavior you must respond to your dog immediately, otherwise he will not associate the wanted behavior with the reward and you will be spinning your wheels. As soon as he exhibits the desired behavior you must reward him. You can reward your dog with treats, praise, toys or even just a pat on the head. He will respond to loving and positive rewards no matter what form they take.

After your dog understands what you are asking and he is consistently doing what you ask, then you need to only reward him intermittently. Intermittent reinforcement is actually more effective for cementing in the behavior than giving him a reward every time.

If you are consistent with your training efforts, your dog can become well trained quickly and easily. Just be sure that you are the alpha and that you consistently expect the best results from your dog.

Discover some of the best dog obedience training advice at UniversityDog.com

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Types of Dog Kennels

There are many different types of dog kennels available today. The main ones are outdoor kennels, indoor kennels, portable kennels, and multiple kennel runs. Below is a short summary of each kennel type and its purpose.

Outdoor kennels
These are to keep the dog within a certain area and keep them safe. It is often forgotten that outdoor dog kennels are not only designed to keep your dog in, but also to keep large predators out. There are three main types of outdoor dog kennels: steel rod kennels, welded wire kennels, and chain link kennels. The easiest of these to assemble is the pre-fabricated chain link kennels. All that is needed is assembly of the panels by simply bolting them together. Your new kennel is now ready for use by your beloved canine.

Indoor kennels
Indoor kennels are similar to the outdoor kennels that are available today although they usually consist of smaller panels for ease of transport and fabrication. The external coating of these is not as important as on the outdoor kennels because they will not be exposed to any weather. Having a secure latch is a must as the purpose of these kennels is to confine your dog to a certain area.

Portable kennels
Portable kennels are often known as dog cage's or dog pens. They are used by people that need to travel with their dogs. These kennels are often installed on the back of trucks or in trailers and provide an easy way to get your dog from A to B. The panels are around 1m x 1m and are very easy to assemble.

Multiple kennel Runs
These are used where more than one dog needs to be accommodated. They are normally large, 8m wide by 12m long and can be divided into separate runs of 2m wide by 3 meters long. A problem with this type of kennelling is 'fence fighting'. This problem can be easily overcome with the installation of an isolation panel between the runs so the dogs cannot see each other.

For a more comprehensive dog kennel guide head over to the Dog Kennels Online Guide. Or, to find more information on types of dog kennels, have a look at Kennels for Dogs.

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Stop Dog Barking - 2 Step Dog Behavior Success

A dog's natural instinct is to bark when they feel their territorially is being compromised by another dog or human visitors. They consider it their obligation to alert you of an impending threat to your property, which is of course, their property as well. In some cases, dog owners appreciate the warning that their dog bark provides them however, excessive dog barking can become a behavior problem, and here we look at some practical tips, which will allow you to control your dog's behavior and will with patience, cease excessive dog barking.

As soon as you observe your dog excessively barking at visitors or passers-by to your property the first thing to consider is rather than disciplining the dog, will be to teach ourselves and the animal that this type of behavior should be rewarded. Inconsistent commands by dog owners are the primary reason for excessive dog behavior and the key you and your dog need to learn is consistency.

Inconsistent messages given by you to your dog will develop into confusion and an inability for your dog to retain any of the learned behavior which you're trying to teach.

Follow these simple dog behavioral techniques for instant success;

1. Whenever your dog barks at visitor passing by your property allow him to bark for two or three occasions. It is important to praise your dog alerting you of the impending visitor, and should, however gently request that the dog is now quiet. If the dog ceases to bark for a few seconds praise him and offer them a reward. This will help focus your dog on the command.

2. Provide them with a treat as soon as they are quiet and consistently praised them for doing so. Ultimately, any discipline directed at the dog should be for disobeying your command rather than the barking itself (this applies to any dog behavioral problems). As above, always be consistent with your dog. You will always be setting yourself up to fail if you offer him or her inconsistent messages.

While it will take several occurrences for your dog to learn that barking is not a bad behavior, consistent messages applied by you to reward quietness after the act will remedy the problem of excessive dog barking. This technique can also be applied for many other dogs behavioral issues and this simple two stage process of command and reward is excellent practice for the future. It will ensure that you and your dog relationship will blossom upon mutual respect and understanding.

As we have just learned, consistent and confident commands are the key to dog training success and it cannot be over emphasized how important the early stages of a dogs development are for the future prosperity of both dog and owner. Puppy Training Dogs would like to invite you to effectively and simply learn the best principles required in training your dog. This unique technique, developed specifically for new dog owners, has helped thousands of people promote and maintain the best relationships between dogs and owners. Visit Puppy Training Dogs to participate in this valuable course.

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

A dog's natural instinct is to bark when they feel their territorially is being compromised by another dog or human visitors. They consider it their obligation to alert you of an impending threat to your property, which is of course, their property as well. In some cases, dog owners appreciate the warning that their dog bark provides them however, excessive dog barking can become a behavior problem, and here we look at some practical tips, which will allow you to control your dog's behavior and will with patience, cease excessive dog barking.

As soon as you observe your dog excessively barking at visitors or passers-by to your property the first thing to consider is rather than disciplining the dog, will be to teach ourselves and the animal that this type of behavior should be rewarded. Inconsistent commands by dog owners are the primary reason for excessive dog behavior and the key you and your dog need to learn is consistency.

Inconsistent messages given by you to your dog will develop into confusion and an inability for your dog to retain any of the learned behavior which you're trying to teach.

Follow these simple dog behavioral techniques for instant success;

1. Whenever your dog barks at visitor passing by your property allow him to bark for two or three occasions. It is important to praise your dog alerting you of the impending visitor, and should, however gently request that the dog is now quiet. If the dog ceases to bark for a few seconds praise him and offer them a reward. This will help focus your dog on the command.

2. Provide them with a treat as soon as they are quiet and consistently praised them for doing so. Ultimately, any discipline directed at the dog should be for disobeying your command rather than the barking itself (this applies to any dog behavioral problems). As above, always be consistent with your dog. You will always be setting yourself up to fail if you offer him or her inconsistent messages.

While it will take several occurrences for your dog to learn that barking is not a bad behavior, consistent messages applied by you to reward quietness after the act will remedy the problem of excessive dog barking. This technique can also be applied for many other dogs behavioral issues and this simple two stage process of command and reward is excellent practice for the future. It will ensure that you and your dog relationship will blossom upon mutual respect and understanding.

As we have just learned, consistent and confident commands are the key to dog training success and it cannot be over emphasized how important the early stages of a dogs development are for the future prosperity of both dog and owner. Puppy Training Dogs would like to invite you to effectively and simply learn the best principles required in training your dog. This unique technique, developed specifically for new dog owners, has helped thousands of people promote and maintain the best relationships between dogs and owners. Visit Puppy Training Dogs to participate in this valuable course.

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

How Sharpeis Started Out

Scientists have been able to unearth paintings and sculptures of dogs that look very much like sharpeis. Some 2,000-year old statues of the dogs already bear the unique blunt muzzle and other characteristics that bear close resemblance to the sharpei.

Despite such discoveries, the origin of this very old dog breed is hard to pinpoint. What can be known so far is that, with the blue black tongue as clue, the dog is related to the chow chow. Both dogs are also possibly related to the Tibetan mastiff, which is often acknowledged as as ancient as sharpeis. Still another historical hint is that the dog bears a bulldog ancestry, as can be seen in some short necks that are low set on the shoulders, thick bodies and certain shared genetic problems.

Whatever its origin, the sharpei was a familiar sight in the Chinese rural communities for centuries. Besides, dogs were part and parcel of the Chinese peasant life. In breeding them, the Chinese sought intelligence, strength, and a menacing grin meant to deter trespassers. Meanwhile, the sharpei's blue-black tongue was meant to ward off evil spirits.

Breeding the dog actually varied according to region. In the case of central China, where farming and herding were main social activities, sharpeis were mainly known for its herding instinct and an uncommon terrier-like ratting skill. The legs of the central Chinese variety were not as long as those of its southern counterparts, while their coats were thinner than those from the north. What is interesting is that the sharpei does not sound out like the western herder breeds, and do not dig or chew as the familiar terrier behavior is wont to do.

In the upper regions of China, where smaller communities had to get through winter in far flung outposts, the sharpei was known to be calm and quiet. These level-headed qualities were essential for an animal that will need to share long hours with its family in a cramped space.

In the case of southern China where recreational activities were more widespread, sharpeis were enlisted as a fighting dog. Breeders would come to appreciate the dog's prickly coat and loose skin, since the latter especially made it possible for the dog to turn around and defend itself. The dogs tiny ears and deep set eyes made it less prone to injuries. But centuries later, mastiffs and bulldogs would throw water on the sharpei's fame as a fighter.

Richard Cussons is one of the many dog enthusiasts that is fascinated with the sharpeis Feel free to check out sharpeisavvy.com to learn more about this breed and at the same time discover valuable shar pei training advice

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

Man's Best Friend and Toxocara Infection in Children

There are so many reasons to teach young children to keep their fingers out of their mouths and not to eat dirt. Add the fact that there are so many dogs and puppies using our yard for a bathroom; your own, a neighbors, even a stray.

In the United States, most puppies and many adult dogs are infected with the roundworm, Toxocara canis.

Infection of the adult dog with this parasite happens when they ingest eggs from the contaminated environment. The puppies usually get this parasite from the mother before birth through her milk. The puppies will start passing eggs in their feces by 3 weeks of age.

This parasite can be spread to humans by ingestions of eggs from the soil or from contaminated hands. Most at risk are young children under 5 years of age, especially those with a history of eating dirt and exposure to puppies.

One study showed that 20-60% of soil samples from backyard residences, public parks and children's sandboxes were contaminated with Toxocara canis eggs. Though it is found throughout the U.S., diagnosis of disease in children is made most frequently in the south.

Light infections in humans are usually asymptomatic, and probably occur quite frequently.

Human infection with Toxocara usually takes one of two forms; visceral larval migrans (VLM), this is where the larvae migrate aimlessly. They usually end up migrating to the liver, but almost any tissue can be invaded.

The other more rare disease is ocular larval migrans (OLM), where the larvae enter the eye where permanent vision loss is possible.

The diagnosis of Toxocara is usually based on clinical signs, history of exposure to puppies, laboratory findings (including eosinophilia), and the detection of antibodies to Toxocara. Stool samples are not useful for examination since the larvae don't mature to adults in humans. Anti-parasitic drugs are available for treating VLM. You cannot treat OLM with antiparasitics and is usually left to trying to prevent more damage to the eye.

The best treatment may be to increase prevention by reducing the accidental ingestion of eggs.

Prevention measures include:

• keep the dogs & puppies under a veterinarian's care for early and regular deworming
• clean up after the pet and dispose of stool
• keep animals' play area clean
• wash hands after playing with dogs or cats
• keep children from playing in areas where animals have soiled
• cover sandboxes to keep out animals
• Don't let children eat dirt.

I have over 20 years experience in clinical and public health microbiology and infectious diseases. I want to enlighten and inform about infectious diseases that could affect you, rare and common, and what you can do to protect you and your family from these dreaded afflictions. See more of my work at http://www.examiner.com/x-7707-Tampa-Disease-Prevention-Examiner

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

Be a Volunteer to Walk Dogs at the Humane Society - It's Good For You

Imagine if you were locked up in a small cage all day. Wouldn't you get excited if someone came along to take you out? The dogs at the humane society experience this every day. Sometimes a volunteer comes along to take them for a walk. This is usually the highlight of their day and makes them happy. Why not volunteer at the humane society yourself? The dogs would love it and it could also be good for you.

Any time you volunteer for a good cause, it should make you feel great about yourself. It's called generosity. But when you walk dogs, you get something special in return. You get a new companion that instantly loves you. And, companionship is good for you. Sure, they're not human beings and there's no substitute for human interaction, but companionship is companionship, no matter what. And, dogs provide that.

Not only that, volunteering to walk dogs at the humane society is good for your health, too. North Americans don't exercise as much as they should. Perhaps exercise just bores them. Think about how much more interesting it would be to get your exercise while walking dogs. It sure beats the mundane thought of walking by yourself. And, yes, walking is considered exercise.

Most people have time to spare. Just think about all the hours you spend in front of the television every week. If you take just two hours away from TV time, you too could find the time to do volunteer work at the humane society. Like I said, it's good for you!

Tino writes a blog about lottery winners stories, which includes stories about people that have won big jackpots in lottery games.

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

7 Things You Have To Know About Choosing A Puppy

We've all done it, fallen in love with a cute little puppy in an advert or in a picture or magazine article. I know I did, I always wanted a Border Collie. They looked so lovely and that was my only decision making criteria. Cuteness.

When we eventually decided that the time was right for buying a puppy, it was a Border Collie for me and only a Border Collie. That was until a close friend sat me down and asked one vital question. "Have you really thought the practicalities through?" She then pointed out to me the many pitfalls of my choice of puppy. Things that hadn't even occurred to me, she then said that the reason there were so many abandoned puppies was because people just hadn't thought things through.

I went away and drew up a list of pros and cons on buying a border collie and soon realised that she was completely correct. A Border Collie just wouldn't be right for me, my family or our lifestyle, no matter how cute. I then used my list to find which puppy would be right. It didn't take me long to find a Border Terrier. The breed ticked all the pro boxes for us and none of the cons. It was the best decision because our Border Terrier is the centre of our world.

If you are making the same decision about which puppy breed to buy then the following points helped me make my decision.

• You - Is the puppy being bought as a family pet or as company or for security? It is important to choose the right breed for how you see the puppy fitting into your lifestyle.

• Carer - Who is going to be the main carer of the puppy i.e. who will be feeding the "little one". If it's going to be a child or women you don't want a massive Great Dane or an aggressive breed. You will need a breed of dog that will not think itself higher in the old "pecking order" than the carer otherwise there will not be any control.

• Walking - Who will be the main person walking the dog. If it's going to be a man then a strong dog will not be a problem to control.

• Time - How much time will be devoted to walking and playing i.e. every day, every couple of days, a long walk once a week and shorter walks in between? If you choose a breed like a Border Collie or Red Setter that needs a lot of exercise and you can only take it for a walk once a week then you are definitely going to give yourself problems.

• Space - How big is your house? If you live in a small two up two down in town then neither you nor the puppy is going to be comfortably if you choose an Old English Sheep Dog or an Irish Wolfhound.

• Training - If you choose a breed that needs a lot of intense training and you are out at work all day and exhausted when you come home then you may come home to find your house is not your home anymore but resembles a demolition site!

• Noise - If you live in an apartment or flat you won't want a dog that constantly barks and causes the neighbours to complain. A lot of this is down to training of course, but some breeds are "yappier" than others and it's worth considering this in your choice.

Answer the following points truthfully then search through the breeds until you find a breed that will fit in with your lifestyle as closely as possible. There will always need to be some changes and compromises, but if you keep them to the minimum then the happier you will all be together.

Good Luck!

And remember, a puppy is for life.

If you want to learn more about how to choose which puppy then visit

http://www.sitpooch.com

and get your COMPLIMENTARY e-book on how to make the right choice for YOU.

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

Puppy Clicker Training - Mind-Blowing Puppy Training Tips

Puppy clicker training is a lot more simple to pick up than the usual command-driven training. Clicker training encompasses all types of animals, no matter the age. Puppies especially respond to it. Here are a few tips to get you going:

1. Before you proceed with your puppy clicker training, take some time and bond with your dog, and be ready to please.

2. Acquire the attention of your pup by calling its name in a apparent but habitual voice, and coax the pup to you. If your pup has not gathered the fundamental command 'come', you can teach that to it first. Say the pup's name initially before the command. (Such as "Fido, come".) Keep the command short and sweet. Saying its name first gets the attention of the pup, and the regular demand after that tells the pup what you want.

3. Press the clicker when you dog comes to you,, at that time give the pup a treat when he or she reaches you. This is reinforcing clear behavior, and soon your dog will understand that he or she can respond to a command and a treat will go along that click. The dog will actually initiate to watch you and take note, which is what you aspire.

4. Train your dog. With your pup in front of you, the treats in your left hand and the clicker in your right, the two of you are ready. Move the hand that has the treatover your dog's head amid its ears. As he or she looks up, click and treat. Recap this several times.

5. Slant over your dog just a tiny so with the intention of he or she leans back. As soon as his or her back legs begin to fold, click and treat. Recap this several times.

6. Be long-suffering with puppy clicker training. Eventually your dog will sit. Click and treat. Relocate to an extra part of the room and see if your dog follows. If not, call him or her to you, then take your left hand out over his or her head. Don't say anything, see if the dog sits by itself. Click and treat. Then move again and do again the process several times. Many dogs will begin to follow their owner around and sit, in suspense for a treat! Have enjoyment with your dog!

7. Train the puppy to stay seated by having him or her sit, but delay a few moments, then click and treat. Repeat this several times.

by Jamie Katz

About the Author

Discover more useful tips on how to quickly train your dog to listen to anything you say, by Clicking Here => Puppy Clicker Training

Dog Agility Training - The Benefits For Your Dog

A dog's happiest moment should be spent running, jumping, catching, and stretching; dog agility training can really help turn idle dogs into active dogs that age gracefully and happily. You might be surprised to learn that the hardest part is starting, but once you have started the sense of achievement as you and your dog progress is reward in itself. Dog agility training can be great fun for both you and your dog as it consists of high energy and quick thinking movements. Dog agility training has many benefits it can

* Transform an idle dog into an active one * Increase your dogs confidence * Improve physical development * Allows for mental stimulation with its quick thinking movements * Most of all is fun

How Does Dog Agility Training Work

Through verbal cues or body language given by the instructor a dog that is off the leash is guided through a range of obstacles. The trainer needs to be aware of the course and the order of the obstacles and the dog needs to focus on the trainer and the cues given by them to conquer each obstacle.

In an obstacle course you will find a variety of exercises such as

* Jumping through a tyre * Running through tunnels * Running up and down a frame * Weaving through poles * Jumping across barriers

Training your dog

When you begin to train your dog you need to take into consideration the dog's maturity.

Dog agility training can only begin when your dog reaches a certain maturity and can respond well to basic commands. Each dog has their own starting points, for smaller dogs which weigh less than 50 pounds you need to wait till they are 9-12 months old for large dogs you will need to wait till they are around 10-14 months. If you begin training your dog too early you are putting them at risk of causing serious injuries.

A Few Rules To Consider

* The first few times your dog goes through the obstacles, ensure that you go at the dogs pace and make sure that it is a fun experience for them.

* Ensure that your dog is under control and listens to your commands this will decrease any risk of potential injuries.

* Treats and happy talk to encourage your dog through the obstacles are a must. Keep the mood happy and positive.

* Reward your pet when they have reached a goal and have performed a correct action. Gradually teach each obstacle first and then join then together to form the course.

* If your dog does not want to participate do not force them, the sport is intended to be fun for both you and your dog. If your dog does not want to initially participate then stop and bring then back to it in a couple of days.

* Have fun and always end your training on a positive note.

Like everything we all need to start somewhere and your dogs agility training is no different. Having a positive attitude and guidance your dog can master the world of dog agility training.

About the Author

For more information on what obstacles to choose for dog agility training then visit http://www.dogbeddingandmore.com

Housebreaking a beagle puppy

When you start housebreaking a beagle puppy, one thing to keep in mind is that these dogs are a very intelligent breed. However, when it comes to housebreaking they fall short. They have a unique independence about them, making them somewhat stubborn. They want to play when you take them outside to the bathroom, or chase things with their highly sensitive nose when you take them for a walk. These are just characteristics of the breed and make them unique.

Fully housebreaking a beagle can take anywhere from 6 months to 1 year despite their intelligent nature. This shouldn't be a cause for concern however but you will need to keep a close eye on them when in the house. Crate training seems to work best for this breed although after you take them out of the crate, they may want to pee right there. That's why it's a good idea to position your crate close to the door and not leave them in there more than a few hours at a time if you can help it.

Exercise is also very important when house breaking a beagle puppy. Beagles are a very active breed and need exercise to simulate their mind and keep their muscles toned. You should try playing fetch with your puppy when you go out for a bathroom break. He may not want to go potty right away, but after you start playing with him he will realize he has to go. Praise is also very important. You should always praise your beagle when he goes to the bathroom in the right spot. You can also give him a treat, that way he knows he did a good job and will try to do it again. Using the same door when going out may also help because if you see your puppy standing by that door it is a good indication that he has to go outside. Remember that beagles want to please you. Don't give up on them and they won't give up on you.

About the Author

Jay Even is a successful dog trainer and breeder and thinks house training your beagle is something you can do yourself. If you are serious about house training your beagle and need advice, go to http://www.squidoo.com/house-training-a-beagle

Dig Leash Training

Dogs walk faster than humans can. Naturally, if you put them on a leash, they'll start pulling to get to whatever they're looking at faster. A dog, having what is called an opposition reflex, would lean on a pressure it feels on its neck and chest. Understanding this makes it clear that if you want to have a leisurely walk with your dog on a leash, you must begin dog leash training while your pet is still a few weeks-old puppy.

Begin by allowing your dog time to get used to the collar around his neck. When you put it on for the first time, your puppy will scratch, roll around or try to get it off. Make sure you fasten the collar securely and don't remove it when the dog is trying to. When he finally calmed down and shows signs of being comfortable with it, you can remove the collar for a short while. This teaches the dog two important things: first, that the collar won't come off when he wants it so he'd best get used to it and second, the collar is not a permanent attachment. Check the collar regularly to make sure it isn't too tight. Your dog grows in size and you need to adjust the collar regularly.

When the dog is ready, attach a leash to the collar and allow the dog time to adjust to the leash. Allot a few minutes every day to for leash training with your puppy and have some treats handy. Your goal is to be able to walk around with your dog on a leash without him pulling at the other end. This means you should be able to stand still with your dog and walk around at your pace, not his.

To get started, fasten the collar securely around your pup's neck and attach the leash. Hold the other end securely. Try and have the dog stand still beside you. When he starts to wander too far and pulls on the leash, call the dog back to your side and reward him with a treat when he does. When he finally is able to stand still beside you for the time you wish to, you can begin walking him around. When he wanders too far to the point of pulling on the leash, call him back to your side. Pull on the leash if needed. When the dog returns to a comfortable distance - walks beside you without pulling on the leash, reward him with a treat.

Do these training exercises with a reward system for several days or weeks or until your dog learns to consistently respect the leash. When your dog is finally able to stand still beside you or walk around your house or backyard with a loose leash, reward your dog with a lot of praise, hugs or pats and some treats. He is ready to be taken out for a walk.

Remember that to condition your dog to respect the leash, focus on allowing your dog to progress forward when the leash is loose. If you allow your pet to proceed forward when the leash is tight, you're teaching him to pull.

Pet Article courtesy of http://pet-articles.blogspot.com.

How To Solve Your Dog's Excessive Barking

If you are a dog owner, chances are you might be aware how frustrating it is to control your dog’s behavior. Some dogs get too aggressive to the point that they become disturbing and irritating to your family and your neighborhood, while others bark excessively for some weird reasons. Many dog owners find themselves clueless and unsure as to what must be done to solve this behavior.

Here are a few tips to help you solve your bestfriend’s nuisance barking:

The primary thing you need to check is if you’re giving your k9 all the things and necessities he needs. Barking is a natural behavior among dogs and they usually bark to communicate something with you. If their needs are not being met, the barking might be a cry or signal that he longs for your care and assistance. Always ensure that you give them the right amount of food and water everyday. You also have to clean after your dog.

Dogs could be barking because of irritation. Flea or tick infestations and skin allergies can cause your dog to make excessive noise. Taking your dog to a veterinarian can help you determine whether or not he is healthy and free from any canine diseases.

If your beloved pet barks a great deal, you might observe that they are either bored or energetic. Don’t let your dog be confined inside your house, instead, take him outside where he can play and interact with other dogs as often as you can. You can also train him using tools such as dog training crates and dog exercise pens. A dog that is properly trained to socialize with people and other animals will not bark excessively. Training your dog is a great way to improve his physical and mental stimulation. Dogs naturally enjoy the outdoor and like to experience new things. The barking problem may be solved when the dog is taken on regular walks.

By and large, dogs bark for they beg for a little attention. So don’t be rude. Never yell, hit or scold your dog when they are barking. These kinds of reaction can aggravate your k9’s anxiety. If your dog barks because he is stressed or lonely then your yelling is just going to confuse and hurt him.

Along with these behavior modification methods, you may also try using some gadgets that are designed to address the barking. You can buy bark control collar and other training collar equipment that will quickly train your canine to stop his nuisance barking.

Pet Article courtesy of http://pet-articles.blogspot.com.