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Tips for Choosing a Dog Breeder

Are you considering purchasing a new puppy in 2017?  If you are set on your decision to shop, rather than adopt, you should ensure you are choosing the best breeder possible for your new family member.  This seemingly small decision can mean the difference between a happy and healthy pet or one that is prone to health problems and poor genes.  Tips for choosing a dog breeder are discussed here. Seek Recommendations When choosing a dog breeder seek out recommendations from trusted sources, such as national breed associations and veterinarians.  Always check the breeder’s references, particularly if the kennel is not well-established.  If you cannot find recommendations for a kennel in your area, at the very least ask trusted canine professionals which breeders to avoid. Ask Questions Once you narrow down your list to a few breeders, the next step is to ask plenty of questions.  How, and why, did...
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Is a Pomeranian Right for You?

Pomeranians are the 22nd most popular dog breed in the United Stated, according to the American Kennel Club.  What makes this tiny fluff ball of a dog so popular?  More importantly, is a Pomeranian right for you? Temperament As a member of the Spitz family, Pomeranians are lively, spirited, and bold.  Do not let their small package fool you, as they often forget their own size in an attempt to intimidate larger dogs.  Pomeranians are also highly alert, and can develop a barking habit if this behavior is reinforced. Size, Coloring, Upkeep Members of the Toy Group, Pomeranians are small dogs that weigh 4 – 8 lbs.  They have thick double coats thanks to their northern European heritage, and shed frequently.  In order to properly maintain the Pomeranian’s coat, daily brushing is recommended as well as professional grooming every 6 – 8 weeks.  There are 18 recognized colorings for this...
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Is a German Shorthaired Pointer Right for You?

A common breed for hunters, outdoor enthusiasts, and families alike is the German Shorthaired Pointer (GSP).  This breed currently ranks as 11th most popular per AKC registrations; but, is a German Shorthaired Pointer right for you? Temperament German Shorthaired Pointers are energetic, obedient, and friendly dogs.  They are smart and willing to learn.  Due to their original use as an all-purpose gun dog intended for both water fowl and larger game, their energy levels are high.  When not properly exercised (i.e. long hikes or vigorous runs), GSPs can become hyperactive and destructive. Size, Coloring, and Upkeep One reason GSPs are popular is because of their unique coloring.  This breed is commonly “ticked,” meaning it has a white mottled appearance against liver or black fur.  Their short hair means heat management is poor, so a jacket is recommended in cold weather. Eyes should be dark brown, although lighter “bird of prey”...
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Is a Weimaraner Right for You?

Weimaraners are noble dogs, best known for their history as large game hunters among German nobility.  Their unique coloring and soulful eyes makes them a popular choice among dog owners; but, is a Weimaraner right for you? Temperament As a dog from the sporting group, the Weimaraner is stereotypically obedient and friendly, while also bold and fearless.  This breed is highly energetic, thanks to its background in hunting large game such as boar and bear.  Like most dogs bred to work closely with humans, the Weimaraner is also very affectionate, almost to a fault.  Weimaraners are highly prone to developing separation anxiety, and often struggle when left alone. Size, Coloring, and Upkeep Weimaraners are large dogs, typically topping out at 82 lbs for males and 71 lbs for females.  They are known for their uniquely colored coat, which can be blue, grey, or silver grey.  Their eyes are light in...
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Is a Shiba Inu Right for You?

Shiba Inus are popular dogs thanks to their fox-like aesthetic and small, manageable size.  However, this breed of dog is often considered to be one of the more difficult ones to own, and for good reason.  Is a Shiba Inu right for your family? Temperament Shiba Inus are commonly called the “cats of the dog world” due to their aloof personality.  They tend to be loner dogs, ones that prefer keeping to themselves rather than engaging in stereotypical dog-like behaviors, such as attention seekin.  As alert and active animals they make great watch dogs, and their high energy makes them perfect exercise partners for active people. Size, Coloring, and Upkeep Shibas are small in stature, standing 16 – 17 inches tall and weighing 18 – 22 lbs.  They have four common coat colorings, including red, sesame, black and tan, or white. Shiba Inus have a double coat and shed heavily,...
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Is a Labrador Retriever Right for You?

Labrador Retrievers have consistently been the most popular dog breed in the world for the past 30 years.  In the United States alone, the Labrador Retriever has been the most-registered dog for 25 consecutive years.  Is this popular breed right for you? Temperament Perhaps the biggest reason that Labrador Retrievers are so popular is their temperament.  Labs are patient, fun-loving, energetic, good with children, and obedient.  Labrador Retrievers are also friendly and outgoing, making them great pets for families. Size, Coloring, and Upkeep Labrador Retrievers are large dogs, with males weighing 65 -80 lbs, and females reaching 55 – 70 lbs.  Potential lab owners should know that scientists have recently found a genetic link for obesity in this breed, proving that labs are prone to overeating and weight gain.  When obese, these dogs can easily weigh over 100 lbs. Labs can be registered in one of three colors:  yellow, black,...
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Benefits of Maintaining a Healthy Weight for Your Dog

Pet obesity is at an all-time high, with an estimated 53% of America’s dogs registering at least 20% overweight.  While many pet owners do not think much of their dog carrying a few extra pounds, the truth is that an animal’s quality of life, as well as its lifespan, decreases as weight increases.  Listed below are just a handful of benefits that maintaining a healthy weight for your dog can provide. Longer Lifespan An alarming study showed that obese dogs may live up to 3 year less than their littermates who maintained a healthy weight.  If no other reason compels an owner to keep their pet’s weight in check, this should be it! Fewer Health Problems Dogs that are overweight have a drastically increased risk of developing diabetes, heart disease, kidney and liver failure, arthritis, as well as certain types of cancer.  Dogs that maintain an appropriate weight are less...
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Running with Your Dog

Just like humans, dogs thrive when properly exercised.  While not all breeds have the same exercise requirements, certain types of dogs such as those from the sporting, herding, or terrier groups require more activity than other breeds.  Running is one of the quickest and most efficient forms of exercise, and is one activity that requires little training.  Listed below are the benefits of running with your dog, and how to safely start a running program together. Running has numerous benefits for pets beyond simply keeping them trim and fit.  Adequate exercise can eliminate most nuisance behaviors in pets such as excessive barking, digging, chewing, humping, and attention-seeking because it is an outlet for excess energy.  Dogs also crave mental stimulation that cannot be provided when simply let into the yard.  Running is a fantastic form of socialization and helps dogs experience new sights, sounds, and smells that bust boredom.  Finally,...
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DNA Testing For Dogs and Why It Is A Good Idea

With the advancement of technology available to everyday consumers in today’s society, we are now able to to purchase DNA testing kits for our pets to learn the breeds in their ancestry.  While this may seem like a frivolous way to spend money, it actually plays a valuable role in helping our canine companions to fit in better with their families, appease their instinctual drives, and help us to better understand their behaviors, possible health concerns, and an educated guess at the adult size of mixed breed puppies. Why Does My Dog Do That? Perhaps you have a mixed breed shelter dog who likes to nip at the heels of your children as they run by, or a pooch that, no matter what you do, continues to dig holes in your back yard. What if these behaviors are not relative to the amount of exercise and training he receives, but...
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