Paw Nation http://www.pawnation.com Paw Nation http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.pawnation.com/media/feedlogo.gif Paw Nation http://www.pawnation.com en-us Copyright 2012 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/'Twilight' Makes Bella Most Popular Pet Namehttp://www.pawnation.com/2011/01/05/twilight-makes-bella-most-popular-pet-name/http://www.pawnation.com/2011/01/05/twilight-makes-bella-most-popular-pet-name/http://www.pawnation.com/2011/01/05/twilight-makes-bella-most-popular-pet-name/#commentsFiled under: , ,

kristen stewartAndrew H. Walker, Getty Images

Hollywood's blockbuster "Twilight" franchise has ushered in the dawn of a new, favorite pet name among animal-adoring Americans: Once again Bella was the No. 1 name for dogs in a survey released this month by Veterinary Pet Insurance, the nation's largest provider of pet health insurance. It was also No. 2 for cats and No. 7 for exotic animals.

Considering that the first "Twilight" flick -- about Bella, a comely teenage loner played by Kristen Stewart who falls in love with a vampire classmate -- hit theaters in late 2008, the trend toward naming a beloved pet after the saga's lead character probably began with the fans who initially read the books.

The Top Ten
According to the VPI survey, the most popular names for dogs, from No. 1 to No. 10, are Bella, Bailey, Max, Lucy, Molly, Buddy, Maggie, Daisy, Charlie and Sophie. For cats, the most popular names are Max, Bella, Chloe, Oliver, Lucy, Smokey, Shadow, Tiger, Tigger and Charlie. Popular exotic animal names are Charlie, Baby, Sunny, Jack, Kiwi, Bandit, Bella, Max, Sammy and Gizmo.

So it's clear that though Bella has struck a chord, pet owners have not adopted names like Edward or Cullen in similar numbers? (Charlie, the name of Bella's father in "Twilight," is the No. 9 name for dogs, No. 10 for cats and No. 1 for exotics, which include birds, lizards, gerbils, rabbits, etc. -- but that probably has nothing to do with the series.)

Continue reading 'Twilight' Makes Bella Most Popular Pet Name

Permalink | Email this | Comments

]]>pet namesveterinary pet insuranceRose MartelliWed, 05 Jan 2011 17:00:00 ESTHavanese 101 - Dog Breed Infohttp://www.pawnation.com/2010/12/28/havanese-101-dog-breed-info/http://www.pawnation.com/2010/12/28/havanese-101-dog-breed-info/http://www.pawnation.com/2010/12/28/havanese-101-dog-breed-info/#commentsFiled under:

havanese dog pictureDamon Dahlen, AOL

Dog Breed: Havanese

Personality: "Havanese are a happy, playful sort, with immense charm," says Susan Siver, a member of the Havanese Club of America's breeder directory committee. "They are a small dog in stature with a big-dog attitude, and they are very people-oriented." "The Dog Breed Bible" describes the Havanese as "a busy, curious dog. It loves to play and clown and is affectionate with its family, children, strangers, other dogs and pets. Basically everyone!"

Grooming: The Havanese's "wavy, silky coat is profuse," according to the American Kennel Club. It's a good thing that it's a nonshedding dog, and Havanese owners have options when it comes to "how much effort they want to put into maintaining a Havanese coat," Siver says. "A puppy cut, which most pet owners prefer, requires much less effort in brushing. However, there is still daily brushing involved."

Common Health Issues: This is a "relatively healthy" breed, Siver says, although particular concerns can include "cataracts, cherry eye, chondrodysplasia, deafness, hip dysplasia, Legg-Calve-Perthes, liver shunt and luxating patella."

Continue reading Havanese 101 - Dog Breed Info

Permalink | Email this | Comments

]]>choosing a dog breedDog Breed 101dogs 101havanesehavanese adoptionhavanese rescueRose MartelliTue, 28 Dec 2010 13:00:00 ESTDo You - and Should You - Kiss Your Dog?http://www.pawnation.com/2010/12/10/do-you-and-should-you-kiss-your-dog/http://www.pawnation.com/2010/12/10/do-you-and-should-you-kiss-your-dog/http://www.pawnation.com/2010/12/10/do-you-and-should-you-kiss-your-dog/#commentsFiled under: ,


man kiss dog pictureGetty Images

Kristin Chenoweth did it a couple of months ago on "Ellen." You may have even done it yourself. Kissing your dog: OK or not OK?

We're not talking about a quick peck atop the head; we mean actually giving your dog a smooch on the lips (or in Chenoweth's case, an unabashed tongue duel). It's an issue that divides dog owners; a 2009 study showed that just about half allow and indulge in such behavior.

The debate continues: Is it sweet? Gross? More importantly, is it tantamount to germ warfare? How much interaction might be too much? We asked readers and veterinarians alike to tell us what they think.

"Fifi's Just Showing Affection"
Personal preference, of course, dictates a Fido-phile's decision to kiss or not to kiss. And what many dog owners prefer is letting the pet set the rules. "They show you unconditional love. It is only right to show them the same in return," says Tina Ballash Blair of Ocala, Fla. "Hugs, kisses, love -- they deserve all that and more."

Some veterinarians happily condone kissing and admit to the habit themselves. "As long as you've got a close relationship with your dog and you want to suck face, I'm OK with that," says Dr. William H. Craig, a former president of the Texas Academy of Veterinary Practice's board of directors and co-founder of the Ingram Park Animal Hospital in San Antonio, Texas.

But not everyone agrees.

"I Think It's Disgusting"
Whether due to etiquette or hygiene, a number of dog owners adopt a Lucy Van Pelt-like stance against dog germs. Pet owner Erin Watzek-Valenti of Charlotte, N.C., declares, "Kiss your dog if you must, but let's kiss them on the head or a peck on the cheek. Kisses on the mouth are gross!"

Continue reading Do You - and Should You - Kiss Your Dog?

Permalink | Email this | Comments

]]>dog germsdog kissesdog kissingkissing dogsKissingDogsRose MartelliFri, 10 Dec 2010 11:00:00 ESTAmerican Eskimo Dog 101 - Dog Breed Informationhttp://www.pawnation.com/2010/12/07/american-eskimo-dog-101-dog-breed-information/http://www.pawnation.com/2010/12/07/american-eskimo-dog-101-dog-breed-information/http://www.pawnation.com/2010/12/07/american-eskimo-dog-101-dog-breed-information/#commentsFiled under:

American Eskimo DogAOL

Dog Breed: American Eskimo Dog

Personality: "Highly intelligent and eager to please" is how Thy Cavagnaro -- co-owner with her husband, Jimmy, of Atka the Eskie, a renowned performance and therapy American Eskimo Dog -- describes her breed of choice. "It adores its entire family, and often loves with its whole heart."

The American Kennel Club calls the American Eskimo Dog "alert and friendly," noting that they can make equally good watchdogs, showbiz dogs and competition dogs. "The Dog Breed Bible" describes them as "bright, eager to please, lively and fun-loving -- but also independent and tenacious."

Continue reading American Eskimo Dog 101 - Dog Breed Information

Permalink | Email this | Comments

]]>american eskimo dogchoosing a dog breedDog Breed 101dogs 101eskieeskie rescueeskimo dog adoptioneskimo dog rescueRose MartelliTue, 07 Dec 2010 07:00:00 ESTSchipperke 101 - Dog Breed Infohttp://www.pawnation.com/2010/12/03/schipperke-101-dog-breed-info/http://www.pawnation.com/2010/12/03/schipperke-101-dog-breed-info/http://www.pawnation.com/2010/12/03/schipperke-101-dog-breed-info/#commentsFiled under: ,

Schipperke dog pictureDamon Dahlen, AOL

Dog Breed Name: Schipperke

Personality: "Truly a big dog in a small body," says Melanie Coronetz, author of "Schipperkes: A Complete Pet Owner's Manual." "Schips have attitude. They're alert, active, loyal, inquisitive, clever -- and often stubborn."

On its website, the American Kennel Club uses adjectives like "enthusiastic, joyful and sometimes willful" to describe this tail-less, headstrong breed. "The Dog Breed Bible" notes that Schipperkes were often kept as boat dogs and the name translates roughly to "Little Captain." They are "happiest when on the lookout for adventure."

Grooming: Brush the coat daily, the teeth weekly, and clean out the ears "periodically," Coronetz recommends. ("The Dog Breed Bible" allows for a more lenient, weekly coat-brushing regimen, with more grooming needed when the dog is shedding.) A Schip bonus: They're odor-free and "don't need frequent baths," Coronetz says. "I bathe mine twice a year when they're 'blowing coat' to help get rid of the dead undercoat."

Continue reading Schipperke 101 - Dog Breed Info

Permalink | Email this | Comments

]]>choosing a dog breedDog Breed 101dogs 101Dogs101schipschipperkeschipperke adoptionschipperke rescueschipperkesschipsRose MartelliFri, 03 Dec 2010 13:00:00 ESTFrench Bulldogs 101 - Dog Breed Infohttp://www.pawnation.com/2010/11/30/french-bulldogs-101-dog-breed-info/http://www.pawnation.com/2010/11/30/french-bulldogs-101-dog-breed-info/http://www.pawnation.com/2010/11/30/french-bulldogs-101-dog-breed-info/#commentsFiled under:

AFP/Getty Images

Dog Breed Name: French Bulldog

Personality: Joyce E. Baker, a breeder and founder of Forever French Bulldogs in Tallahassee, Fla., notes that the breed "loves attention," but also lists "happy, playful, loyal, inquisitive" as their more admirable, endearing qualities. The American Kennel Club notes on its website that French bulldogs are "often described as 'a clown in the cloak of philosopher.'"

Grooming: Only "an occasional bath and brushing" are coat-keeping requirements, says Baker. However, because of a the French bulldog's odd physical attributes, you'll need to do some maintenance around the head and face. "Ear cleaning is necessary," Baker says, and "some Frenchies will need their facial wrinkles wiped out and their noses rubbed with petroleum jelly to prevent drying and cracking."

Common Health Issues: Again, the physical peculiarities of French bulldogs can make for special circumstances. One term with which an owner will become quite familiar is brachycepahly, also known as flat-head syndrome, a recurring characteristic of the breed. What does this mean for a French bulldog's well being? Says Baker, "Their short face puts them at higher risk during anesthesia. They are also prone to allergies." Then there's that short spine of theirs, which may result in hip and spine problems. Because of all this, regular vet visits and proper diet and exercise (less is more) are a must. "The Dog Breed Bible" notes a lifespan of 9 to 11 years.

Continue reading French Bulldogs 101 - Dog Breed Info

Permalink | Email this | Comments

]]>choosing a dog breeddogs 101Dogs101french bulldogfrench bulldog adoptionfrench bulldog rescueRose MartelliTue, 30 Nov 2010 13:00:00 ESTNew Breeds at the National Dog Showhttp://www.pawnation.com/2010/11/25/new-breeds-at-the-national-dog-show/http://www.pawnation.com/2010/11/25/new-breeds-at-the-national-dog-show/http://www.pawnation.com/2010/11/25/new-breeds-at-the-national-dog-show/#commentsFiled under:

It was a big year for new breeds at the 2010 National Dog Show presented by Purina! Doubling last year's introduction of three breeds, this year a whopping six breeds entered the ring for the first time: Boykin spaniel, Leonberger, Cane Corso, Icelandic sheepdog, bluetick coonhound and Redbone coonhound.

Want to know more about these new-to-the-show competitors? Here's a cheat sheet.

Boykin Spaniel dog pictureWestminster Kennel Club

Boykin Spaniel: The official state dog of South Carolina, where it was originally bred as an amphibious hunting dog and named after L. Whitaker Boykin, one of the original developers of the breed. You'll be able to identify a Boykin by its relatively compact size compared to other breeds of spaniel. But like all spaniels (save the non-sporting Tibetan), it competed at the NDS in the sporting group. With its flowing, shiny, chocolate-brown coat and its agreeable demeanor, the Boykin proved a crowd-pleaser at the show.

Leonberger dog pictureWestminster Kennel Club

Leonberger: The German city of Hamburg gave America the hamburger; now Leonberg, Germany gives us the Leonberger, a large-breed, Working Group dog. The AKC praises the Leonberger for being equal parts "multipurpose working dog" and "reliable family companion." We think it looks equal parts St. Bernard and German shepherd.

Continue reading New Breeds at the National Dog Show

Permalink | Email this | Comments

]]>american kennel clubbluetick coonhoundboykin spanielcane corsodog breedsicelandic sheepdogleonbergernational dog showredbone coonhoundRose MartelliThu, 25 Nov 2010 15:00:00 ESTAnd the Winner of the National Dog Show is.... Clooney, the Irish Setterhttp://www.pawnation.com/2010/11/25/national-dog-show-winner-clooney/http://www.pawnation.com/2010/11/25/national-dog-show-winner-clooney/http://www.pawnation.com/2010/11/25/national-dog-show-winner-clooney/#commentsFiled under: ,

clooney national dog show winner pictureSteven Donahue / See Spot Run

Putting the "dog" in underdog, this year's winner of the National Dog Show presented by Purina -- a 3-year-old Irish setter named Clooney -- wowed the crowd with his Cinderella-story win. We talked to Clooney's handler (and roommate), Peter Kubacz, to find out how this dark horse became top dog.

Tell us what makes Clooney (a.k.a. GCH. Windntide Mr. Sandman) such a surprise win at the NDS?
He's really on the young side, winning at 3 years old. Clooney looks older than what he is as far as conditioning is concerned. When he retires -- probably when he's 5 -- he'll likely look his best.

Just what is it that you think makes Clooney so special?
He loves to show. He loves the attention; he loves people; he loves being in the ring and being around all the people and everyone fussing over him. He is a great show dog in that regard.

As far as an Irish setter goes, he is very well balanced and proportioned. He has a wonderful front and rear angulation and he is a lot of dog in the sense that he has a lot of presence to him. There's a lot of him when you put your hands on him and when judges go over him and examine him. He has a lot of substance to him, but he is not an overbearing dog.

How long have you been handling Clooney?
Only about two-and-a-half months.

How did you come to work with him?
Owners Carol and Patrick McGary bred him and showed him from time to time on their own, and they also hired a handler out West where they live [in Washington]. The first time I met him and showed him was for the Irish Setter Club of America's national specialty competition in Wisconsin in June. The dog came to me and we just kind of clicked right away. He was not the only dog I was showing or paying attention to, but you would have thought he was my dog all along. We won Best of Opposite Sex out there which is a pretty big deal. Then in August the McGarys and I started talking about bringing him to show him out East.

Continue reading And the Winner of the National Dog Show is.... Clooney, the Irish Setter

Permalink | Email this | Comments

]]>Clooney the Irish Setternational dog shownational dog show presented by purinashow dogRose MartelliThu, 25 Nov 2010 14:00:00 ESTWatching the National Dog Show - New Web Features, Games and Morehttp://www.pawnation.com/2010/11/23/national-dog-show-new-web-features-games-and-more/http://www.pawnation.com/2010/11/23/national-dog-show-new-web-features-games-and-more/http://www.pawnation.com/2010/11/23/national-dog-show-new-web-features-games-and-more/#commentsFiled under:

national dog show pictureVirginia Sherwood, NBC

Watching the National Dog Show presented by Purina every Thanksgiving on NBC has become a holiday tradition for many. This year, what's new about the show is that TV won't be the only way to experience it.

More to Do on the Web
The show's official site at NBC Sports will be "super enhanced" with extensive video extras. All 160-plus Best of Breed winners will be featured, along with expert commentary from veteran announcer Wayne Ferguson, President of the Kennel Club of Philadelphia, which hosts the NDS. (Scroll down on the main NDS page to find the group or dog you'd like to watch.)

You can get an idea of what goes on behind the scenes at the NDS with this great gallery or check out pictures of all the dogs in the ring as they strut their stuff. You can even enter your pup in the Petcentric Dog Show, which has fun categories like Best Troublemaker or Best John O'Hurley Look-alike.

Watch Video of the Show
Hulu will offer free streaming of the entire NBC broadcast beginning at 2 p.m. EST on Thanksgiving Day. (NBC will broadcast the dog show, as it always does, immediately following the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade, beginning at noon in all time zones.)

Continue reading Watching the National Dog Show - New Web Features, Games and More

Permalink | Email this | Comments

]]>david freijohn ohurleykennel club of philadelphianational dog shownational dog show presented by purinanbc sportsRose MartelliTue, 23 Nov 2010 13:00:00 ESTThankful for Your Dog? Here are 3 Holiday Meals for Treating Your Poochhttp://www.pawnation.com/2010/11/19/thankful-for-your-dog-here-are-3-meals-to-treat-them-with-over/http://www.pawnation.com/2010/11/19/thankful-for-your-dog-here-are-3-meals-to-treat-them-with-over/http://www.pawnation.com/2010/11/19/thankful-for-your-dog-here-are-3-meals-to-treat-them-with-over/#commentsFiled under: ,

dog begging table pictureGetty

You know not to feed your pet from the table -- even when the table is as bountiful as it is on Thanksgiving -- so how can you safely and happily include your dog in the upcoming holiday festivities?

Whether you're a master chef or a microwave-only kind of cook, we've got you covered. Here are three mutt-friendly meals you can make: one from a pre-assembled kit, one that any home cook can put together while making Thanksgiving dinner (no extra time in the kitchen necessary), and one for serious, canine-loving culinarians.

"Bone" appétit!

Doggie Thanksgiving from a Kit:
Chef Edward Mac, founder and chef de cuisine at Barks Bistro, received his culinary training from Le Cordon Bleu. So you know that his Three-Course Prix Fix Thanksgiving Dinner Kit ($15) will be tasty. The kit contains a ready-to-eat beef pâté starter, followed by your choice of ready-to-eat entree: Tender Turkey, Crispy Chicken, Pork Sirloin Chops or Veal Cutlets. For dessert, the kit contains cupcake-making materials: cupcake liners, a packet of vanilla yogurt icing and a recipe booklet for whipping up your own batch of cupcakes, featuring Mac's favorites (like Alaskan pink salmon and rosemary cake).

Continue reading Thankful for Your Dog? Here are 3 Holiday Meals for Treating Your Pooch

Permalink | Email this | Comments

]]>arden moorecooking for dogsdog foodEdward MacPeoplePets.comrachael rayThanksgivingRose MartelliFri, 19 Nov 2010 13:00:00 ESTTibetan Spaniel 101 - Dog Breed Infohttp://www.pawnation.com/2010/11/16/tibetan-spaniel-101-dog-breed-info/http://www.pawnation.com/2010/11/16/tibetan-spaniel-101-dog-breed-info/http://www.pawnation.com/2010/11/16/tibetan-spaniel-101-dog-breed-info/#commentsFiled under:

Tibetan Spaniel dog picture Dog.Show_Photos, Flickr

Dog Breed: Tibetan Spaniel

Personality: "Tibetan spaniels are very independent dogs," says Deb Henson, a member of the Tibetan Spaniel Club of America who is renowned for her rescue work with the breed. Both she and the American Kennel Club cite the Tibetan spaniel's intelligence, but also note that while these dogs can be outgoing and friendly, they may proove "aloof with strangers." "The Dog Breed Bible" says, "Tibetan spaniels are independent, bold and stubborn, but also sensitive, biddable and happy."

Grooming: Tibetan spaniels have a medium-length double coat that will shed once or twice a year. This is known as "blowing coat," according to Henson. "The owner can keep the loose hair to a minimum with weekly brushing," she says. On the plus side, "they don't really have a 'doggy' odor and they like to be clean. Most enjoy a bath." If your Tibetan spaniel gets muddy, Henson recommends you let the mud dry, and "it will just fall off the hair."

Common Health Issues: According to Henson, "Most Tibetan spaniels are very healthy and tend to live about 15 years, active up to the very end." "The Dog Breed Bible" concurs, recommending tests only on Tibbies' knees and noting nothing more than patellar luxation and cataracts as health concerns.

Continue reading Tibetan Spaniel 101 - Dog Breed Info

Permalink | Email this | Comments

]]>choosing a dog breedDog Breed 101dog breed infodog breedsdogs 101tibetan spanielRose MartelliTue, 16 Nov 2010 15:00:00 ESTThe Flash and Thelma Memorial Hedgehog Rescuehttp://www.pawnation.com/2010/11/15/the-flash-and-thelma-memorial-hedgehog-rescue/http://www.pawnation.com/2010/11/15/the-flash-and-thelma-memorial-hedgehog-rescue/http://www.pawnation.com/2010/11/15/the-flash-and-thelma-memorial-hedgehog-rescue/#commentsFiled under: ,

hedgehog pictureZ.G. Standing Bear

Unusual Shelter: The Flash and Thelma Memorial Hedgehog Rescue

Location: Divide, Colo.

Named after the first two hedgehogs ever taken in as pets by founder and 70-year-old retired criminal investigator and criminology professor Z.G. Standing Bear, Ph.D., the Flash and Thelma Memorial Hedgehog Rescue, Inc., has served since 1999 as what is believed to be North America's only 501(c)3 nonprofit corporation fully dedicated to hedgehog rescue, rehabilitation and sheltering.



Hedgehogs are less popular housepets compared to dogs and cats. What are the most misunderstood aspects of hedgehog ownership that often lead to an unwanted hedgehog arriving at your shelter?
Our hedgehog rescue began due to the terrible hedgehog-care information that's published both in print and on the Internet. Children often talk their parents into getting them a pet hedgehog and then lose interest, especially as they approach teenage years. Also, with a lot of the literature out there incorrect, people often don't realize the basic care needs and the personalities of hedgehogs.

Virtually all of the pet hedgehogs in North America are the descendants of some 80,000 Central African and Algerian hedgehogs that were imported from Lagos, Nigeria between 1991 and 1994. Of the 14 species of hedgehogs, the Central African and Algerian species are the only two that cannot hibernate, since they came from such a warm climate. Therefore, they must be kept warm, at 72 degrees Fahrenheit or higher.

There are many other reasons why a hedgehog may be placed at our rescue, such as the owner moving to one of the seven states where hedgehogs are illegal to possess, abandoning a hedgehog that needs medical care, economic difficulties, etc.

Continue reading The Flash and Thelma Memorial Hedgehog Rescue

Permalink | Email this | Comments

]]>animal rescueanimal sheltergimme shelterGimmeShelterhedgehogRose MartelliMon, 15 Nov 2010 15:00:00 ESTGordon Setter 101 - Dog Breed Infohttp://www.pawnation.com/2010/11/11/gordon-setter-101-dog-breed-info/http://www.pawnation.com/2010/11/11/gordon-setter-101-dog-breed-info/http://www.pawnation.com/2010/11/11/gordon-setter-101-dog-breed-info/#commentsFiled under:

gordon setter dog pictureAlamy

Dog Breed: Gordon Setter

Personality: When Jan Ruggles, manager of the Nodrog Gordon Setter Club of Michigan's website, recently polled the club's members for words that best describe the personality of a Gordon setter, the three most popular responses were friendly, loving and loyal. The American Kennel Club says on its website, "the Gordon setter was originally bred as a personal bird dog, but they are equally at home as companion dogs."

Grooming: Nothing too fancy or arduous is needed. Most of Ruggles's survey-takers advocate "regular" brushing, which to many meant daily, but a few suggested brushings could occur as seldom as once every one or even two weeks. "The Dog Breed Bible" falls somewhere in the middle, advocating "brushing every two to three days." Otherwise, give baths on an as-needed basis (which probably won't be more than a few times per year) and always keep an eye out "to make sure no nasty mats are forming," as these are best dealt with as soon as possible.

Common Health Issues: Nodrog's members note cancer and bloat as two ailments that seem to occur in Gordons more often than other breeds. "The Dog Breed Bible," on the other hand, notes only bloat (aka "gastric torsion") and hip dysplasia as concerns, and gives a typical lifespan of 10 to 12 years.

Continue reading Gordon Setter 101 - Dog Breed Info

Permalink | Email this | Comments

]]>choosing a dog breeddog breed 101dog breed infodogs 101Dogs101gordon setterRose MartelliThu, 11 Nov 2010 14:00:00 ESTSkye Terriers 101 - Dog Breed Infohttp://www.pawnation.com/2010/10/26/skye-terriers-101-dog-breed-info/http://www.pawnation.com/2010/10/26/skye-terriers-101-dog-breed-info/http://www.pawnation.com/2010/10/26/skye-terriers-101-dog-breed-info/#commentsFiled under: ,

skye terrier dog picture Mary Dickson

Name: Skye Terrier

Personality: "A skye terrier has stamina, strength and courage," says Karen G. J'Anthony, president of the Skye Terrier Club of America. "They are good-tempered, loyal and sensitive to the needs of their owners. However, although they are sensitive, they do have a mind of their own." According to the American Kennel Club, "The skye terrier is an elegant dog and fiercely loyal to those he knows and loves."

Grooming: A skye terrier's grooming needs change from puppyhood to adulthood, says J'Anthony. "The adult skye carries a double coat comprised of a harsh, outer coat, with a softer, wooly-textured undercoat," J'Anthony explains. "Weekly grooming using a pin brush and comb, beginning at the skin and working out towards the topcoat, will keep the coat in an unmatted condition." The AKC notes that "trimming is necessary to keep the hair from dragging along the ground."

As for younger skyes, "they may need more frequent grooming, as the puppy coat tends to be softer." Grooming how-to is mostly the same between younger and older skyes; the main difference, says J'Anthony, is that for younger dogs, "extra care needs to be spent ensuring that matting does not occur on the inside of the legs and behind the ears."

The extra work involved in grooming a skye puppy comes with benefits. "When started young, skyes look forward to grooming and bonding time with their owners," says J'Anthony. Overall, she recommends that a skye owner dedicate one to two hours per week to grooming.

Continue reading Skye Terriers 101 - Dog Breed Info

Permalink | Email this | Comments

]]>choosing a dog breedChoosingADogBreedDog Breed 101dog breedsdogs 101skyeskye terrierterrierRose MartelliTue, 26 Oct 2010 15:00:00 ESTWirehaired Pointing Griffons 101 - Dog Breed Infohttp://www.pawnation.com/2010/10/25/wirehaired-pointing-griffons-101-dog-breed-info/http://www.pawnation.com/2010/10/25/wirehaired-pointing-griffons-101-dog-breed-info/http://www.pawnation.com/2010/10/25/wirehaired-pointing-griffons-101-dog-breed-info/#commentsFiled under: ,

wirehaired pointing griffon dog picture rse75, Flickr

Name: Wirehaired Pointing Griffon

Personality: The Dog Breed Bible lists the breed's best qualities as "devoted, willing to please, amiable, and often comcial," though the book also notes that they are "reserved with strangers."

Jay Hoth, president of the American Wirehaired Pointing Griffon Association, adds that he tells prospective griffon owners that these dogs are "almost too smart for our own good."

Grooming: The American Kennel Club describes breed's fur as a "coarse double coat." Jim Lorraine of Frog Hollow Griffons, a wirehaired pointing griffon breeder in Sauquiot, N.Y., says their coats are also "non-shedding and hypoallergenic." Not much unkeep is needed. "Using a comb on their coats a couple times a week works the best," according to Lorraine. Hoth agrees, noting, "Griffons don't require a great deal of grooming, but do benefit from periodic brushing to remove dead hair. The griffon should not be bathed too frequently or have a conditioner used on their coat."

There are other elements of good hygiene that you can incorporate into your Griff's grooming. Hoth says, "Their ears need regular maintenance to prevent ear infections. This includes cleaning with a quality ear cleaner and pulling of hair from the ear canal. The hair between the pads of the feet should be trimmed regularly to reduce dirt and ice accumulation. Nails need to be trimmed on a regular schedule."

Continue reading Wirehaired Pointing Griffons 101 - Dog Breed Info

Permalink | Email this | Comments

]]>choosing a dog breedChoosingADogBreedDobBreed101Dog Breed 101dog breed infodog breedsdogs 101wirehaired pointing griffonRose MartelliMon, 25 Oct 2010 11:00:00 ESTPharaoh Hounds 101 - Dog Breed Infohttp://www.pawnation.com/2010/10/01/pharaoh-hounds-101-dog-breed-info/http://www.pawnation.com/2010/10/01/pharaoh-hounds-101-dog-breed-info/http://www.pawnation.com/2010/10/01/pharaoh-hounds-101-dog-breed-info/#commentsFiled under: ,

Pharaoh Hound picture Nelle Wyatt

Name: Pharaoh Hound

Personality: "Pharaoh hounds are intelligent, inquisitive, independent and energetic," says Nelle Wyatt, LVMT, CPDT-KA at the University of Tennessee College of Veterinary Medicine (and a proud pharaoh-hound owner). The American Kennel Club likewise says, "friendly and playful, the pharaoh hound is affectionate with its family." Wyatt adds, "Occasionally, individuals may be aloof until they befriend strangers."

Grooming: As a breed without odor problems and with a "short, glossy coat," as described by the AKC, "pharaoh hound grooming is easy," Wyatt proclaims. "Frequent bathing is not necessary. In between baths, wiping with a damp cloth or grooming mitt is usually sufficient to keep shedding down and keep their coats looking pretty."

Common Health Issues: "Pharaoh hounds are genetically clear for serious problems," says Wyatt, although she notes that, in her line of work, "We do see senior thyroid problems, occasional IBD [inflammatory bowel disease] and Addison's disease, as well as luxating patellas in some lines."

Training Tips: "Hounds in general can be more of a training challenge due to their genetic hunting drive," Wyatt says. The good news about pharaoh hound training in particular is that they are, "very intelligent and seem to want to please their people." Wyatt advocates reward-based training techniques not just as a personal preference, but as a pharaoh-hound necessity. "They do not respond well to force and tend to 'shut down' or show avoidance behaviors to communicate to their trainer that the techniques are inappropriate." Wyatt especially recommends "great caution with off-leash work until the dog has been proofed many times."

Continue reading Pharaoh Hounds 101 - Dog Breed Info

Permalink | Email this | Comments

]]>choosing a dog breedChoosingADogBreedDog Breed 101dog breedsDogBreed101dogs 101Dogs101houndspharoah houndpharoah hound dogspharoah houndsPharoahHoundDogsPharoahHoundsRose MartelliFri, 01 Oct 2010 07:00:00 ESTIrish Wolfhounds 101 - Dog Breed Informationhttp://www.pawnation.com/2010/09/30/irish-wolfhounds-101-dog-breed-information/http://www.pawnation.com/2010/09/30/irish-wolfhounds-101-dog-breed-information/http://www.pawnation.com/2010/09/30/irish-wolfhounds-101-dog-breed-information/#commentsFiled under:

Irish Wolfhound dog pictures Beverly C. Little

Name: Irish Wolfhound

Personality: There is an old Irish proverb, according to the American Kennel Club (AKC) website, that best describes this unique and robust breed: "Gentle when stroked, fierce when provoked." But relax -- that just means that IWs, anciently bred for duties like hunting and castle-guarding, still like to "instinctively give chase to fleeing prey." In fact, the AKC is quick to add, family-friendliness has likewise been in this breed's blood since as far back as 391 A.D. Though, they add, an IW could be counted on to "play with their [master's] children and lay quietly by the fire as family friends."

The second edition of the "Encyclopedia of Dog Breeds," by D. Caroline Coile, Ph.D., calls the Irish wolfhound "the gentle giant... soft-natured, easygoing" while "gentle and kind" is how Beverly C. Little, secretary of the Irish Wolfhound Club of Puget Sound, chooses to describe IWs. "The IW is very people-oriented," Little explains -- meaning "its" people, not just any people. Loyalty is a key and prized aspect of an Irish wolfhound's appealing personality.

Grooming: Don't be put off by the IW's shaggy-dog appearance; this is still a relatively low-maintenance breed. The dog's double coat -- "to keep cold and rain out," Little explains -- needs only "a good combing/brushing at least weekly... to keep him tidy," she says. Of course, "more is better, especially in the spring and summer," while a bath may only be required "when he needs it, to keep him socially acceptable." The Encyclopedia of Dog Breeds recommends that just a couple more steps be taken, including "occasional slight scissoring to neaten up straggly hairs" and hand-stripping twice yearly.

Continue reading Irish Wolfhounds 101 - Dog Breed Information

Permalink | Email this | Comments

]]>choosing a dog breedChoosingADogBreedDog Breed 101DogBreed101dogs 101Dogs101houndirish wolfhoundirish wolfhound dogirish wolfhoundsIrishWolfhoundIrishWolfhoundDogIrishWolfhoundsIWwolfhoundRose MartelliThu, 30 Sep 2010 11:00:00 ESTKeeshonden 101 - Dog Breed Infohttp://www.pawnation.com/2010/09/29/keeshonden-101-dog-breed-info/http://www.pawnation.com/2010/09/29/keeshonden-101-dog-breed-info/http://www.pawnation.com/2010/09/29/keeshonden-101-dog-breed-info/#commentsFiled under: ,

Keeshond dog pictures MarilynJane, Flickr

Dog Breed Name: Keeshond

Personality: "Clownlike" is how Karen Staats, vice president of the Sandalfoot Keeshond Club of Central Florida, describes the keeshond (plural: keeshonden), because "they can be pretty goofy, they are always happy, and they love to make the people around them happy." Similarly, the American Kennel Club describes the Netherlands-descended keeshond as being "an affectionate, good-natured companion, outgoing and friendly with people and other dogs."

Don't, though, equate silliness with a lack of intelligence. "Even through their goofy behavior, the keeshond is an extremely intelligent breed," Staats says. "They are both beautiful and very smart."

Grooming: Staats recommends a "full grooming" -- bath, blow dry and brush -- "at least once a month," and both the AKC and "The Dog Breed Bible," by D. Caroline Coile, Ph.D., suggest a wice-weekly brushing regimen.

Common Health Issues: "Keeshonden are generally a very healthy breed," Staats says. "Though congenital health issues are not common, the conditions which have been known to sometimes occur in keeshonden are hip dysplasia, luxating patellas, epilepsy, Cushing's disease, and hypothyroidism." "The Dog Breed Bible" notes a longer-than-average lifespan of 12 to 14 years.

Continue reading Keeshonden 101 - Dog Breed Info

Permalink | Email this | Comments

]]>choosing a dog breedChoosingADogBreedDog Breed 101DogBreed101dogs 101Dogs101keeskeeshondkeeshondenRose MartelliWed, 29 Sep 2010 13:00:00 ESTStandard Schnauzers 101 - Dog Breed Informationhttp://www.pawnation.com/2010/09/28/standard-schnauzers-101-dog-breed-information/http://www.pawnation.com/2010/09/28/standard-schnauzers-101-dog-breed-information/http://www.pawnation.com/2010/09/28/standard-schnauzers-101-dog-breed-information/#commentsFiled under: ,

Standard Schnauzer dog pictures Getty

Name: Standard Schnauzer

Personality: Do a search on "the dog with the human brain" and you'll find many references to the standard schnauzer; it's what owners of this breed love to say about their whip-smart companions.

Diane R. Mitchell, president of the Greater Pittsburgh Standard Schnauzer Club (GPSSC), describes this breed's brand of intellect as "very interested in what is going on around them," while Mary Lu and Bob Quehl, vice president and treasurer, respectively, of the GPSSC, explain that "standard schnauzers are unique in their problem-solving ability, intelligence and sense of humor in interactions with us and other standard schnauzers."

That working-breed awareness and intelligence makes them popular as "therapy, service and search and rescue dogs," according to the American Kennel Club website, which also calls the SS "sociable and affectionate."

Grooming: The list of hygiene needs for this breed and its "harsh, wiry coat," as described by the AKC, certainly isn't short. But given the pride most SS owners take in their dog's distinct appearance, you'll likely want to abide by "daily brushing, regular bathing of their beards, coats and furnishings, cleaning ears and trimming nails on a regular basis," which is what the Quehls list as grooming necessities. Stripping and scissoring of the coat is also required "to maintain their hallmark appearance."

Continue reading Standard Schnauzers 101 - Dog Breed Information

Permalink | Email this | Comments

]]>choosing a dog breedChoosingADogBreedDog Breed 101DogBreed101dogs 101Dogs101schnauzerstandard schnauzerRose MartelliTue, 28 Sep 2010 11:00:00 ESTShetland Sheepdogs 101 - Dog Breed Informationhttp://www.pawnation.com/2010/09/24/shetland-sheepdogs-101-dog-breed-information/http://www.pawnation.com/2010/09/24/shetland-sheepdogs-101-dog-breed-information/http://www.pawnation.com/2010/09/24/shetland-sheepdogs-101-dog-breed-information/#commentsFiled under: ,

Shetland Sheepdog sheltie dog pictures Corbis

Dog Breed: Shetland Sheepdog

Personality: Praise is heaped upon this herding breed, which the American Kennel Club describes on its website as "a working collie in miniature." The site also notes that the Shetland sheepdog "is alert, intensely loyal... known as a devoted, docile dog with a keen sense of intelligence and understanding."

The second edition of the Encyclopedia of Dog Breeds, by D. Caroline Doile, Ph.D., says, "The Shetland sheepdog is extremely bright, extremely sensitive, and extremely willing to please."

Meanwhile, Karen Peak, member of the Association of Pet Dog Trainers, affiliate member of the International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants and developer of the Safe Kids/Safe Dogs Project, says, "This breed can be a fantastic companion. A good Sheltie has been described as loyal, intelligent, hard working, sensitive." Despite all the praise, many expert sources, including Peak and the AKC, note the Shelties' reputation as being shy, wary, reserved or aloof around strangers.

Grooming: The Sheltie's double coat does shed, which means "a good brushing once a week," Peak says, "with frequency increased during shedding periods and baths when needed to keep the coat looking good." She warns against cutting back on shedding problems by shaving your Sheltie: "Shaving does not do anything to lessen shedding; it just makes the shedding hair shorter."

Continue reading Shetland Sheepdogs 101 - Dog Breed Information

Permalink | Email this | Comments

]]>choosing a dog breedChoosingADogBreedDog Breed 101DogBreed101dogs 101Dogs101sheltiesheltiesshetland sheepdogshetland sheepdogsShetlandSheepdogRose MartelliFri, 24 Sep 2010 07:00:00 EST