Akita Inu Dog Breed Profile

Description: The Akita Inu is a large dog with a strong, powerful build. The dog will measure 26 to 28 inches at the shoulder and weigh from 75 to 120 pounds. The bitch is 24 to 26 inches at the shoulder with a weight of 75 to 100 pounds. The Akita has a dense double coat, consisting of a hard outer coat and a soft undercoat. The coat is generally found in all colors, including red, fawn, brindle, and white. The ears of the Akita are small and erect and the tail curls up over the hindquarters. The Akita has a lifespan of 10 to 12 years. This dog is also known as Akita Inu in Japan.


History: The Japanese island of Honshu, in the Akita Prefecture, was the birthplace of the Akita Inu. This dog was bred to be a sturdy guard and hunting dog. As the prey animals included black bears, boar, and elk, the Akita was, of necessity a strong and determined hunter. It was this dog's job to hold the quarry until the human hunters were ready to make the kill. During the 19th century, the original Akita was bred to the Tosa, the Japanese fighting dog. This resulted in a dog that was larger and more aggressive than its Akita parent. The breed was diminished by a rabies outbreak at the beginning of the 20th century, and WWII caused many of these dogs to be sacrificed for their fur, which was needed for uniforms.


Temperament: The Akita Inu is very loyal and attached to its human family. One Japanese Akita was so loyal that it went to the train station to meet its master for nine years after the master had died. The Akita has a very strong and dominant personality, however, so a firm master is needed to train the dog how to behave properly. This dog must be socialized with other dogs and household pets while young. Although the Akita loves children, its size makes it more suitable for older children than very young ones.


Health Issues: The Akita Inu is very prone to bloat, stomach torsion. If this occurs, the dog must be taken to the veterinarian for immediate treatment. This is a life-threatening situation that cannot be treated at home. This dog has a small heart for its body size and is sensitive to anaesthesia because of this. Your veterinarian should be made aware of this if your Akita needs surgery. The Akita can also suffer from hip dysplasia and canine herpesvirus.


Grooming: The Akita's coat needs quite a bit of grooming to stay in top condition. It should be brushed with a stiff-bristled brush at least once a week. When the coat is blown twice a year, it would be advisable to groom even more often than that.


Living Conditions: The Akita Inu is very protective of its family and wants to be near them as much as possible. However, this is a rugged dog with a thick coat that does not mind being outside in bad weather. The Akita can live in an apartment if the owner makes the effort to give the dog proper exercise. A house with a yard is probably a better option so that the dog will be assured of enough exercise.




Related book:

Akitas (Complete Pet Owner's Manual)

The sturdy Akita, a much favored breed in his native Japan, is a loyal and affectionate family dog that thrives on companionship with humans. This book is a brand-new title in Barron's extensive line of Complete Pet Owner's Manuals. They advise current and soon-to-be pet owners on the care of dogs and cats of virtually all recognized breeds, as well as on birds, reptiles, amphibians, fish, small mammals, and even exotic creatures like tarantulas and sugar gliders. 

»»  READMORE...

Teaching a Dog Sitting

One of the most natural parts of basic dog training is to teach your dog to sit. In this article I will go over two effective techniques that I practice when I and teach dogs to sit at command. The methods are really simple and easy to practice.

Before we go ahead, you must make sure that your dog masters its name, and that you are at a location which is familiar to your dog, so that he wont be distracted by new smells or sounds. Also remember to have a good supply of treats at hand as you will need those in both methods that I use when I teach dogs to sit.

Method 1.

Step 1. Call your dog to you and stand in from of him.

Step 2. Let him know that you have a treat in one of your hands.

Step 3. Hold the hand with the treat in front of your dogs nose, while you use the other hand to press down on the lower back of your dog.

Step 4. As you dog is all too busy with the smell of the treat in your hand, he will instinctively give in to the pressure on his lower back, and sit down.

Step 5. Say "sit" at the exact moment your dog sits down, give him the treat and praise him with kind words.

Step 6. Repeat this exercise 6 times and then leave the dog to rest and reflect on the training you just did.

You can do this training 4 to 8 times each day, and as soon as you feel your dog is ready, you should move on to other and more difficult surroundings which will put the dogs attention to the test. As your dog begins to catch on to the meaning of the command and the action, you can stop giving him treats and base the reward on just compliments.

Method 2.

Step 1. Stand in front of your dog and show him the treat you have in your hand.

Step 2. Slowly move the treat over his head and towards his back.

Step 3. As the dog tries to follow your hand with the treat in it, he will automatically sit down.

Step 4. When your dog begins to sit down, you must say "sit", compliment him and give him the treat.

Again you can do this training exercise up to about 6 times each day, and no more than 4 to 8 times per day. Follow the same advice as I have given on the first method.

I hope that my article gave you some useful tips on how you teach a dog to sit.

»»  READMORE...

Keep Your Dog Safe in Your Car

Most people love pets, such as cats, dogs, rabbits, guinea pig, and some kinds of small animals. Sometimes people like to take the pets with them on journey, or to anywhere, especially dogs, because of some characteristics of dogs. So there might be one problem, is it safe enough for the dog to keep it in car? Do you have any security precaution for them? You may think that your dog is safe in your car, because you are a good driver. But what if you have to slam on the brakes? What if it just falls asleep when you start moving the car? That's why you need some security precautions for your dog. Actually, there are some products which could contain your dog while you are driving.

First one is seat belt. There are some types of seat belts for dogs in the market. In fact, these seat belts include a harness which is designed the size on your dog and a strap that clips into the harness and is fixed by the seat belt. Seat belt may involve more use, but this could make your dog move less. If your dog likes to look out the window or lay down on the seat when you are driving, this seat belt may not work. You need to make sure that the dog seal belt you buy has been tested for crash.

Another one is vehicle barrier, which is installed behind the back seat of a station wagon or SUV to avoid your dog from accessing anything. That will keep your dog just on the back seat. Many people use these to separate the car so that passengers won't sit on a seat which has many dog hairs, or some other things. And, your dog won't fly through the car if you get into a car accident or you slam brake. This one could stop you keep watching on your dog, and let you concentrate on driving.

The last one is a dog crate. If the above two products can't satisfy you, you could keep your dog in a crate when you are on journey. This one includes a pet carrier, which could keep the crate in the back of the car. Just make sure that you fixed the crate in the right position while you are driving.

All these are just some small kits, but they are effective.

»»  READMORE...

Characteristics of Siberian Huskies

Siberian Huskies are an amazingly beautiful dog breed with a rich history. If you are unsure what they look like you can imagine the sled dogs that are in dogsled races. If that is not enough for you then continue reading this article and I will go in depth into the Siberian Huskies characteristics.

The first, and one of the more interesting characteristics of the husky, is their eyes. The Siberian Huskies characteristics stand out most because of this one. They have brown or blue eyes but can also have two different colored eyes or each eye can have two different colors. The eyes are almond shaped and moderately spaced.

Huskies sometimes suffer from a condition called "winter nose" or "snow nose, which is scientifically called hypopigmentation. "Snow nose" is acceptable in the dog show ring. If the husky is gray it will have a black nose, if it is black it will have a tan nose, if it is copper-colored it will have a liver nose, and if it is white it will have a flesh color. These are typically the colors of the noses, but they may be different than listed.

The huskies coat is comprised of a dense undercoat and a longer topcoat of straight hair. During shedding though the topcoat will be the one that sheds and the undercoat will not. The shedding that takes place during the telogen phase has been called exogen, which is the name for the cycle that takes place separate from the resting state. The huskies fur causes it problems during the summer, when it has trouble cooling itself.

These dogs have medium-sized, triangularly erect ears that are known as prick ears. The tails is a fox-like brush and is carried in a curve over the back and trails behind the dog in motion. The majority of these huskies have white tipped tails.

The typical size of the Siberian husky for a male is between 21 to 23 inches and the females are between 20 to 22 inches. The weight of the males is between 45 to 60 pounds and the weight of the females is between 35 to 50 pounds.

Siberian Huskies are beautiful dogs that have a rich history. You may recognize them from dogsled races or you should now be able to identify them using these Siberian Huskies characteristics. However you identify them, it is hard to mix this amazing dog breed.

»»  READMORE...

Siberian Huskies Are Great Pets

Siberian Huskies make for great pets and family dogs, but, like any animal they have needs. As long as you probably care for your Siberian Husky it will be hard to find a more loving and fun animal to have as a pet. They are pack orientated dogs and love to be around you because to them you are their family and pack. They are great guard dogs and when they sense danger they will defend you and your family.

Huskies are known for being a sled dog and have a lot of energy which makes them a great dog for the person with an active lifestyle. It is very important to run, jog or walk your dog every day to let them release some of their energy. If you do not, it may lead to destructive tendencies in your dog's behavior. They may begin excessive digging, tearing out plants, scratching fences and doors, or shredding dog beds, and stuffed toys.

They are just trying to release their energy any way they can, but, if exercised they will not have the need to be destructive. When Siberian Huskies are walked, jogged or gone have gone running they will be relaxed loving creatures who will follow you around the house or yard.

If you love your Husky and treat them with love they will be devoted to you for life. They will pick one family member as the "dominate" one and they will listen mainly to that person. Although they love the entire pack, or family, the same they have a respect or special bond with the pack leader. Since Huskies are pack orientated dogs they will defend their family any time they sense danger. Their love overpowers any other emotions and their first priority is to keep you safe.

Granted they are very friendly dogs and great around people they can usually sense the difference between a friendly person or animal and a person or animal whose intention is to cause harm.

A well exercised dog means a healthy pet and a healthy pet is usually a happy pet. When you exercise your Husky and love them, they in return, devote themselves to you and become a great pet you and your family will enjoy.

»»  READMORE...

Shih-tzu the Best Lap Dog Period

The Shih-tzu is mostly known for its vibrant beauty, abounding energy, and imperial attitude. In fact, the Shih-tzu has become one of the most popular breeds among consumers searching for the unimaginably cute and playful puppy.

The Shih-tzu originates in China. It is believed that these tiny dogs originated in Tibet and then were brought to be bred in the City of Peking. The Shih-tzu quickly caught the eye of the Imperial Chinese court and were guarded protectively by their benevolent owners. Members of the Chinese royalty were so protective of the breed that it wasn't until 1930 that the Shih-tzu debuted in Western civilization.

After being recognized by the British AKC in 1946 and the United States AKC in 1969, the Shih-tzu's popularity grew in leaps and bounds. Today the Shih-tzu remains a very popular breed for both companionship and showing.

Although small, the Shih-tzu is very sturdy and hardy. This breed's most identifiable traits are its abundant coat of long hair, full beard and mustache, and upward growing nose. Weighing in at only 9 to 16 pounds, Shih-tzus can reach an impressive height of 11 inches. The Shih-tzu is full of character. While they can be obstinate, dogs belonging to this breed are generally spunky, active and happy and sometimes portray an attitude that borders on arrogance.

Because of its small size, Shih-tzus do well in very small homes such as apartments. The lack of a yard does not even affect these little guys. They are very sensitive to heat though, and should be kept in a cool environment.

Caring for a Shih-tzu takes a little more patience and dedication than with other breeds. As I said before, these dogs can be obstinate and stubborn which makes training and house breaking a chore. Their thick, long coat requires daily grooming and brushing, and their sensitive eyes need to be cleaned and maintained daily. It is also a good idea to have Shih-tzus professionally groomed on a regular basis. This will aid you in your daily grooming rituals.

The most common health problems associated with Shih-tzus are usually related to their respiratory function. These dogs tend to wheeze and snore a great deal and are prone to ear, eye and other respiratory problems. Shih-tzus also tend to become obese very easily and should not be overfed. Perhaps the most endearing trait of the Shih-tzu is its clever and affectionate personality which make it ideal as a family pet. So, if you are looking for an adorable, spunky canine companion with an imperial background and attitude, perhaps a Shih-tzu is exactly what you are looking for.

»»  READMORE...

Siberian Husky Training - A Difficult Task

Siberian Husky training is not an easy thing and can be quite challenging to an inexperienced owner. They are an intelligent kind of dog with very high energy. Many people find them to be quite stubborn also. This is a type of breed where the owner must show the dog that they are the ones in charge from the start. If not, then a Husky can become very difficult to manage as they grow older.

The reason that training a Siberian Husky can be challenging is because they are very smart and very opportunistic. They also get bored very easily. They must be engaged and challenged for something to be interesting to them.

Once the owner brings a Husky to their home, dominance must be shown right away. They are pack dogs and who is alpha is very important to them. Once the owner is established as the alpha, the dog will respect the owner and training will go much easier. The dog will look to their owner for guidance in what it is allowed and not allowed to do.

If the owner decides to put their Husky through obedience training, they are probably in for a challenge. Huskies are able to distinguish different situations. So, they may behave perfectly at the obedience class, but totally ignore the owner at home. To fix this, constant correction and repetition is needed. This is easier to do when the dog is younger rather than when they reach the adult stage and they are set in their ways.

Many first time owners of this kind of breed do not realize that Siberian Huskies are a working breed. This means they have been bred to work. Huskies can preform these tasks and enjoy doing it effortlessly and happily. If they do not have something to do, they can become very destructive. Their energy can be well spent in playing, as a jogging companion, or having enough contained space that allows them to run.

Siberians also have a very strong prey drive. This could mean trouble if the dog is allowed to roam the neighborhood at their own free will. They will hunt small animals such as squirrels, rodents, and even cats. They must be contained and controlled at all times. Fences should be at least 6 feet high, and sometimes even have fencing along the top to prevent the Husky from escaping.

Siberian Huskies are also known as diggers. They often dig holes to have a place to cool off. Training them to dig in an allowed part of the yard will help with this problem. Such as, creating almost a sand box with loose dirt for them to play in. Hiding treats in the loose dirt will help entice them to come to that area also.

»»  READMORE...

Keeping Your Shih Tzu's Coat Beautiful

One of the things most admired about Shih Tzu is their beautiful coat. That long flowing human like hair! But keeping their coats beautiful does require some effort. That is why many owners choose to keep the coat cut short. And unless you plan to show your Shih Tzu a short cut is perfectly acceptable.

To minimize the risk of tangles and mats a Shih Tzu should be brushed daily. Any pet shop will have a great variety of dog brushes to choose from, including slicker brushes and soft dog brushes. A very young puppy should be handled daily by the breeder. This includes massaging the feet and face, as well as rubbing the belly.

The permanent dog parents should brush their new puppy from day one, even if his coat does not really need it at the time. This will help the puppy become accustomed to the brushing and he will in fact, come to enjoy this time. Other benefits of this daily routine include the fact that it is a great way to bond with your pet and at the same time you are doing something productive. It is also an ideal time to inspect your pet for any parasites or signs of illness.

If you find tangles or mats carefully spread them apart with your fingers before attempting to brush them out. There are detangling products available to make this task easier. Another option is to mix a small amount of conditioner with water in a spray bottle and mist your pet as you brush. Use about 1/10 conditioner to 9/10 water mixture.

Besides daily brushing proper grooming of your Shih Tzu will include regular bathing. Depending on the age and size of your Shih Tzu, you may find that the use of the kitchen sink works better than the bathtub. Always use a shampoo and conditioner that is specially formulated for dogs. Once again, a trip to your local pet shop will provide you with lots of choices.

When bathing your pet be sure to make the experience enjoyable for him. Talk soothingly and massage his body as you wash. Use caution not to do too much rubbing or you may find that you actually cause tangling and matting.

You will need to either trim the hair around the eyes or use small rubber bands (orthodontic type) to pull the hair up away from the eyes. Hair in the eyes not only obstructs the vision of the Shih Tzu, but it can also result in an eye infection.

»»  READMORE...

Keep Your Dog Looking and Feeling Cool During Summer With Fashion Forward Dog Clothes

Some people think dog clothes are just for keeping your pup warm during the winter, but your precious pooch needs protection during the summer too! Just like humans, dogs can get skin cancer if not properly covered while out in the sun. Luckily there are a lot of hot new dog fashions that will keep your fur baby looking AND feeling cool during the summer.

When going out into the sun for long periods of time, consider covering your pup with a cool t-shirt. A bonus perk is if you have a dog suffering from an allergy, a shirt will stop him or her from licking and pawing at the affected area. Louisdog offers a large variety of fashion forward, high-end top-fashion tees as well as low-key vintage-looking tees. Wooflink takes an edgy turn and shows off a rocker sense of style with rock-and-roll dog t-shirts featuring skulls, studs and rhinestones for punk rocker pooches. Wooflink also offers a number of light-weight cotton fabric choices perfect for warm or hot weather. Last but not least, Juicy Couture has a great selection of puppy polo shirts and crystal rhinestone embellished dog tees that will make any dog the life of the block party.

If your little lady prefers something more feminine, darling dog dresses are all the rage right now. Dog designers Wooflink, Louisdog, Juicy Couture, and Ruff Ruff Couture all have a wide selection of dresses in their collections perfect for a summer picnic or warm summer night at the beach.

Speaking of the beach, there are great styles for dogs that love to swim too! Brands including Juicy Couture and Little Lily offer a diverse assortment of swimsuits for dogs, and you can also find many styles of dog swim trunks online. If you are taking your dog out on a boat or surfing (yes! dogs can surf!) it's essential that you get your dog a swimming life vest too.

If your fur baby isn't the type to wear clothes or if you're in the hottest dog days of summer, why not just stick with accessories? Dog accessories are the perfect way to express style, fashion and attitude without the heavy layers (your pooch is already wearing a fur coat, after all). Sizzling dog accessories for the summer include dog jewelry, collar charms, paw wear to protect paws against hot sidewalks, cute color-coordinating collars and sunglasses. Designer Susan Lanci's collection includes a large range of luxurious ultrasuede dog beds, harnesses, and hair bows embellished with high end Swarovski crystals. Ultrasuede is stain resistant, very breathable, and easy to clean.

The last thing you want to do is overheat your dog by putting too many clothes on them during the summer, so it's always important to keep a close eye on your pup and monitor his or her comfort level. With the help of Cool Vest, a light weight thin vest worn over your dog's chest, your dog will be able to stay cool, dry, and be able enjoy their summer walks and playdates! If you see your dog panting excessively, drooling, acting fatigued, anxious or wobbly, he or she may be overheating.

If your dog shows any signs of overheating immediately take off any clothing they may be wearing, take him or her to a cool, shaded area, and get them cold, fresh water to drink. Heatstroke is considered an emergency that must be treated without delay, so if your dog continues to show symptoms take them to a veterinary hospital ASAP.

»»  READMORE...

How to Stop Your Puppy Chewing?

We are all delighted with our new puppy for a few days. Their cute antics have everyone in the family delighted. But this delight can quickly turn to frustration when after a few days they begin t chew on everything in sight, including valuable possessions. How can we stop this kind of behaviour in puppies? It is a lot easier than it might seem at first sight, and by following the simple tips in this article, you will have your puppy behaving well and not chewing on anything they shouldn't be in no time at all.

The primary cause of puppies chewing on anything, from hands to table legs is that they are experiencing teething pain. We all remember the persistent pain of a tooth coming through (even if it has been a while since our last one!), and it just the same for a puppy whose teeth are pushing up. From their point of view, mouthing and chewing on things is a sensible response to the pain and an ideal way to reduce the stress and strain of it all. Unfortunately for you, it is a costly and frustrating thing for them to do.

If you want to stop your puppy chewing on the furniture, valuables, or even people, you will have to give them something else that it is acceptable to chew on - after all, it is only natural for dogs to chew on something. Many pet shops carry rubber toys which are specifically designed to be for dogs to gnaw on during teething. Further, you need to work to make these toys more attractive to chew on than anything else! The way to do this is through positive association. Reward your dog when they chew on their toys and play with them in the appropriate way. Conversely, you need to make your valuables seem less attractive. There are a number of ways you can do this. Cayenne pepper and tabasco are unpleasant tastes for dogs, so try putting a little dab of these on the furniture legs. After a short while, your dog will have negative associations with chewing furniture, and should stop wanting to do it even without these tastes.

Teething is not the only cause of chewing in puppies. Often it can be an expression of their desire to spend more time with you or get out of the house more. This is because puppies are extremely energetic animals, who often tire their owners out at the best of times. If your puppy is cooped up in the house all day with no companionship and no exercise they will turn to doing something else - in many cases this will be chewing on the furniture. It gives your puppy some sense of purpose and is certainly one way of using up any excess energy they have. If you'd rather they spent their energy in other ways, the best thing to do is to take them on more regular walks, even hiring someone to do this.

»»  READMORE...

Five Facts About Saint Bernards

Today, most people are familiar with the gentle giant from the Beethoven movies. They are also instantly recognizable as the rescue dog, which treks the Alps in search of lost or injured skiers (the name 'St. Bernard' is taken from a particularly dangerous pass in the Alps between Italy and Switzerland). As well as an actor and rescuer, the St. Bernard is also a great family pet, which is known for its loyalty, affection and intelligence. However, there are some things about St. Bernards that you may not know; below are five facts about one of the giants of the dog world.

1. St. Bernards and Brandy
Surprisingly, the image of the St. Bernard with a barrel of brandy around his neck is an erroneous one. In reality, the rescue dogs of the Alps never carried barrels around their necks, partly because it would have been incredibly cumbersome. The St. Bernards' rescue job was difficult enough and hundreds were killed trying to save the lives of humans.

2. The World's Most Famous St. Bernard
St. Bernards are renowned the world over, but the most famous of them all was called Barry (the name St. Bernard was not used until the mid 19th century, before then they were known by many names, including Barry Dogs). Unfortunately, records do not give a clear figure, but it is thought that Barry saved between 45 and 100 people in his career as a rescue dog. He was buried at the Natural History Museum in Berne, Switzerland, where a monument was erected to celebrate his achievements.

3. Strength
As a giant dog breed, the St. Bernard is muscular and powerful. Subsequently, it is important to train a St. Bernard as a puppy. St. Bernards pose no danger in terms of aggression, but an unruly dog of its size can become too much to manage. The breed has a long history of working with humans, in farming, as a watchdog and, of course, as a search and rescue animal. Therefore, it was bred for its strength, stamina and agility. St. Bernards are much more active than they appear and it is important that they get plenty of exercise.

4. Smarts
Given its long tradition as a working dog, it is perhaps unsurprising that the St. Bernard is an extremely intelligent breed of dog. Moreover, as with many giant breeds, the St. Bernard is known for its good temperament, loyalty and docility. Great with strangers, children and other animals, the St. Bernard is not territorial. However, it will protect its family in times of danger.

5. A Cold Animal
In terms of personality, the St. Bernard could not be warmer. However, due to its breeding as an Alpine rescue dog, it has adapted to an extremely cold climate. Consequently, today, St. Bernards do not tend to do well in warmer climes. In fact, even a warm room can be too much for the St. Bernard. Therefore, if you choose to own a St. Bernard it is advisable to consider your climate and take extra care during the summer months to keep him, or her, cool.

The St. Bernard can make a wonderful family pet. However, as with any breed of dog, it is strongly advised that you research the breed and its needs before welcoming one into your home. One of the main considerations is that a purebred St. Bernard puppy is not only expensive to purchase, but it is also expensive to feed and will grow very rapidly in the first few months. Therefore, it is wise to ensure that you have the resources and space to care for a giant dog.

»»  READMORE...

Siberian Huskies Are Great Pets

Siberian Huskies make for great pets and family dogs, but, like any animal they have needs. As long as you probably care for your Siberian Husky it will be hard to find a more loving and fun animal to have as a pet. They are pack orientated dogs and love to be around you because to them you are their family and pack. They are great guard dogs and when they sense danger they will defend you and your family.

Huskies are known for being a sled dog and have a lot of energy which makes them a great dog for the person with an active lifestyle. It is very important to run, jog or walk your dog every day to let them release some of their energy. If you do not, it may lead to destructive tendencies in your dog's behavior. They may begin excessive digging, tearing out plants, scratching fences and doors, or shredding dog beds, and stuffed toys.

They are just trying to release their energy any way they can, but, if exercised they will not have the need to be destructive. When Siberian Huskies are walked, jogged or gone have gone running they will be relaxed loving creatures who will follow you around the house or yard.

If you love your Husky and treat them with love they will be devoted to you for life. They will pick one family member as the "dominate" one and they will listen mainly to that person. Although they love the entire pack, or family, the same they have a respect or special bond with the pack leader. Since Huskies are pack orientated dogs they will defend their family any time they sense danger. Their love overpowers any other emotions and their first priority is to keep you safe.

Granted they are very friendly dogs and great around people they can usually sense the difference between a friendly person or animal and a person or animal whose intention is to cause harm.
A well exercised dog means a healthy pet and a healthy pet is usually a happy pet. When you exercise your Husky and love them, they in return, devote themselves to you and become a great pet you and your family will enjoy.

»»  READMORE...

Chihuahua Puppy Training - The Easy Way

Dogs crave human companionship and Chihuahuas, regardless of their size, are no exception. Most Chihuahuas will take every opportunity to jump on a human lap (if they like the human) and with their small size, big eyes and big ears make it difficult for most people not to be drawn to them. The problem is that Chihuahua puppies grow into adult dogs and need to be trained to be acceptable members of a family.

Everyone knows someone who has a Chihuahua that jumps on people, barks and makes messes in out of sight areas in the house.

My mother had a Chihuahua and my son has a Chihuahua. Being around these little animals have given me a unique perspective on training that I think they should have had.

So, what type of training does a Chihuahua need and how do you train such a small, independent minded puppy?

In my inexpert opinion and from my observations of Chihuahuas, potty training, dog behavior training and obedience training make the top three. Not just for small dogs like the Chihuahua, but all dogs that come in contact with people need behavior and obedience training. Consider the following for your little Chihuahua:

1. Potty training can be helped along by crate training the little animal. A crate gives the puppy his own area to sleep in and most dogs won't soil their sleeping area. This makes it easier to introduce you dog to places where it is acceptable to pee and poop. A crate also gives the little guy a place to go when it is confused or just wants to be alone. It is possible to litter box train these little guys, a great advantage for Chihuahua owners that live in apartments, or have to leave the dog unattended for extended periods of time.

2. Behavior training is an essential item for all dogs to stop unwanted behavior such as chewing on things, biting (playfully, of course) or jumping on people. Unacceptable behavior must be addressed and stopped early on to avoid confusing the dog by restricting behavior that was acceptable when he was a puppy. Dogs, like people, have a hard time breaking bad habits.

3. Obedience training is most important when you Chihuahua comes in contact with people he does not know. These little guys can be most possessive of their humans and may growl or bark at other dogs or even people who take their humans time away from him. Obedience training should include simple things, like walking on a leash and taking the dog to areas that expose him to other people and animals.

The second part of my question was "How do you train such a small, independent minded puppy?". It is easier to train the dog if it starts with the puppy. My method of dealing with a problem like this is to go online, do a search for the answer and usually buy an e-book that helps me arrive at a solution. Sometimes the information in a book is hard to understand and with dogs, I have learned that the tone of voice is important, and it is hard to learn that from looking at pictures.

The easiest way to train your dog is to watch a professional dog trainer do his or her stuff, then simply do what they do. I have observed trainers at pet stores and watched several shows on television and along the way, I picked up some tips that seem to work. Videos that show the command, tone of voice and stance work the best. Watching it once was usually enough to get the technique down.

The hard part for me has been to continue the training after my puppy learned the correct behavior. The old saying "you lose it if you don't use it" really applies to dogs. If they don't practice what they learn, it does not stay learned very long. Another good thing that comes from training, even short periods of time is the bond that is created between the dog and his human. Your puppy will really become your buddy.

»»  READMORE...

About Japanese Spitz

The Japanese Spitz are developed in Japan in the 1920s and 30s by breeding a number of other Spitz type dog breeds together. They are recognized by the vast majority of the major kennel clubs, due to its being similar appearance to the American Eskimo and Samoyed dog from other country. A Japanese Spitz is a small dog around 33 cm at the withers, with a somewhat square body, deep chest, and a very thick, pure white double coat.

The Japanese Spitz has wedge-shaped face. It is an intelligent breed and will quickly learn what is required of them if gentle consistency is applied. They are also playful, alert, and obedient, and particularly excellent and loving towards children. They are small enough to enjoy being a lap dog, but do possess an independent nature and a strong will of their own so new owners need to be firm with their pups, but not that harsh because harsh handling and strong verbal and physical discipline are harmful and may be met with resistance.
Positive reinforcement of treats and praise will bring out their eagerness to learn and their willingness to please. Socialization at a very early age can introduce the puppy to various people, places, noises, situations and other animals. This will mature into a friendly, confident, well mannered adult. This kinds of dogs are a type of companion dog and prefer to be an active part of the family but they can act as reliable watchdogs.

Although the Japanese Spitz might appear fluffy, they are a low maintenance breed as the coat has a non stick texture often compared to Teflon. This kind of dogs requires weekly care and grooming because a regular routine also ensures that any potential health problems are identified as quickly as possible. But grooming consists of not only brushing out the coat and bathing but also giving attention to the eyes, teeth, ears, feet and nails.

»»  READMORE...

Snowy White American Eskimo

The American Eskimo is one of the most intelligent and trainable of the dog breeds. This dog was frequently used as a performer in traveling circuses. The dog is strikingly beautiful with a snowy white coat.
This member of the American Kennel Club's non-sporting group was originally known as the American Spitz. This breed is descended from several strains of European dogs that came to the United States with their German owners.

Some of their descendents are Pomeranians and the German Spitz. These dogs come in three sizes, the toy, the miniature and the standard. There is an American Eskimo to fit any size house or dog lover's preference.
A thick double coat covers the dog. There is a ruff around their necks. The dog also has a graceful, full tail that curls over their backs. The small, erect ears give them the appearance of being always on the alert. A black nose, black-rimmed eyes and black mouth provide a striking contrast with the breed's snowy white coat.

The American Eskimo needs plenty of exercise. Be prepared to take your dog for nice log walks twice a day. This level of exercise will keep the dog lively and happy. The American Eskimo can live comfortably in an apartment or town home.

This breed is a perfect choice for a family with small children. With a playful, naughty personality, the American Eskimo enjoys the company of children and their friends.

The American Eskimo loves human interaction. This breed is not happy spending too much time alone. Doggie daycare is an option to keep the dog active and involved with other dogs to provide company.
The American Eskimo will benefit from dog obedience classes. The American Eskimo is so intelligent that he will enjoy the structured training and will probably want to go to more advanced classes.
Some of the common health problems of the American Eskimo include:

• Joint degeneration
• Hip dysplasia
• Seizures

Hip dysplasia is often a hereditary problem. You should consult the breeder for information on the level of screening for the parents. Seizures are also a concern for this

The thick coat needs to be groomed once per week to remove loose hair and debris. Pay special attention to the toenails to be sure they are wearing down naturally. The American Eskimo is not only strikingly beautiful but a smart and loyal family pet.

»»  READMORE...

Is a Shih Tzu the Right Dog For You?

Many times people will decide they want a new pet based upon the way a dog looks or some story they have heard about the breed. There is no denying that Shih Tzus (often misspelled as Shitzu, Shihzoo, Shihsue, etc.) are adorable. They are small and the perfect lap dog.

If you like small dogs then you are sure to like this dog breed. Shih Tzu are non-shedding, making them a good choice for persons with allergies. They are intelligent and lively and as happy to be with a single person as they are to be with a large family. Because they are small they do not require a lot of space - they are even content living in an apartment.

But there are many things to consider before adding a new Shih Tzu dog to your family. Perhaps the most important matter is that Shih Tzu are a huge responsibility. You must be committed to providing proper care for them for their lifespan.

You will need to consider your lifestyle and how a Shih Tzu will fit in.  Shih Tzus prefer not to be alone. They are the ultimate companion dog. If you are away from home several hours a day your Fur-baby will be lonely. Loneliness in a dog can result in unfortunate consequences. He/she may bark or whine non-stop or your little baby may look for a way to entertain himself -often this is chewing on things that you would prefer he didn't.

Ideally you will be able to spend most of your waking hours with your pet by your side. But if that is not possible you will need to find ways to keep him safe and out of trouble while you are away. Many dog parents have found that the use of a doggie play pen works well for this. They are large enough to allow plenty of play area, a bed, and a puppy pad space.

Although the doggie play pen will prevent any destruction of your items it does not help to keep your Shih Tzu company. A great solution to that is adding another Fur-baby. This is especially true of puppies. You will then have the fun and entertainment of watching the two of them play and grow together.

»»  READMORE...

How to Stop Your Shih Tzu From Biting

Train Your Puppy to Stop Biting

Your training should start as early as you puppy is 6 weeks old to avoid him from growing up to an aggressive Shih Tzu. When he bites, give a sharp alarm to express that you're hurt, like for example..."ouch!" or "no!" He will learn to associate your reaction with his behavior and be more careful the next time you play with him.

Don't make the mistake of letting your puppy grow with this habit by thinking that biting is only a dog's play. The truth is...the puppy is growing up unconsciously perfecting his biting power to be prepared to assume position if and when the situation calls for it. So the time to train your Shih Tzu to stop biting is when he is in the early months of life. One year may be a little late!

Be consistent in your anti-biting training. Repeated "ouch!" or "no!" every time he bites

no matter how light or how hard the bite is will teach him that any kind of bite is not accepted. Giving him a toy is another way to show a puppy that he can bite it but not your hand. Once you are getting what you want from your puppy, it's time to praise him to reinforce his good behavior. If still you have Shih Tzu problems about biting why not get him a professional obedience trainer?

Does Your Shih Tzu Still Bite at One Year Old?

If the biting and nipping behaviors are not arrested in the early puppy stage of life, it will continue to play biting until it is one year old. As dog owner you must be aware that playing games with your Shih Tzu encourages dominating attitude that includes biting.

This is the right time to set boundaries for your dog. Stop him from having the liberty around the whole house. Crate training is one way although a little harder at the age of 1. Good obedience training will help avoid your dog from growing up into an aggressive Shih Tzu that bites.

If Still Your Dog Bites When Older

If biting behavior continues as your Shih Tzu becomes an adult dog, he must not have undergone good and persistent obedience training and he wants to assert himself as the dominating power in the house. He might even turn on you!

The ultimate solution if your Shih Tzu puppy training fails (it will only fail if you've been inconsistent as the leader of the pack) is to get a professional help to prevent a pending danger of an attack.

Whether your dog grows up well-behaved or one that bites, it's your take. Remember that a dog is a man's best friend....if and only if you made him one.

»»  READMORE...

Choosing the Most Fashionable Dog Clothing

Many people want their dogs to be miniature versions of themselves and because of this dog clothing has become very popular. Although it was once only ever seen on very small toy dogs it has become popular to get clothing for your larger breeds as well. There are many different outfits and costumes to choose from and knowing which ones to choose can be a challenge. You have to decide if the clothing is for practical purposes or purely to make your canine look fashionable.

Although dressing dogs has been a common thing for many years it was always for practical reasons in the past. Clothing was chosen for your dog to keep it warm in the winter months and the outfits were far from fashionable. This has changed in recent years and you can now buy many different types of clothing that are very fashionable. You can even buy designer clothing for your dog that will look fantastic and make your dog stand out from other dogs.

You can buy holiday fashion for your dog and you will love to see them dressed up in Halloween, Christmas and even wedding attire. Your dog will love being part of the day and having their own special outfit to wear. There are many different costumes to choose from which are specially designed and suited to canines so they will be comfortable wearing them. The dog outfits come in many different designs and colors and you can even have them personalized to your canine.

You can have jackets, shirts, coats, waistcoats and even shoes all designed for dogs and often you will be able to find whole outfits that match and look great. You should carefully measure your dog so that you know exactly what size clothes you will need. You should ensure that your dog is comfortable at all times and they can move freely. You should also think about how easy it is to get your dog in and out of their clothing. Most dogs won't mind wearing the clothing but if yours does object then you should take it off.

You can find some great dog clothing in pet stores and there are even boutiques especially designed for dog clothing. You will find a huge range of clothing online and you will be amazed at the choice you will have. There are websites dedicated to dog clothing that gives you the option to personalize the clothing to have your dog's name included on the clothing. You have to consider how much you want to spend on the clothing as it can become quite expensive.

If you have a budget then you should stick to it as buying dog clothing can become quite addictive. Once your dog has their new dog clothing then you will be able to go out both looking great and people will stop to admire the amazing outfit your dog is in. You will be proud to walk your dog down the street wearing their new clothing and your dog will love all of the added attention they are getting from people.

»»  READMORE...

A Success Formula For Husky Puppy Training

Husky puppies make lovely companions and are generally very gentle in nature, but being one of the larger breeds its good to get your husky puppy training started today.
When husky puppies leave their mum its safe to say that it will take a few days for them to settle into their new environment, and this is when we do need a little patience as crying and piddling may well be top of the agenda.

Followings some of the tips below will help deal with these issues and get you off to a great start.

1. Your Puppy Crying In The Middle Of The Night.
It is good to make a decision as to where you would like your puppy to sleep. It is always good to provide "den" like surroundings that make them feel safe. Also your husky puppy may well have just left a large puppy pack that he/she used to cuddle to at night, so providing a half full lukewarm water bottle for them to snuggle up to will help make them feel not too lonely.
If crying starts it is always best to ignore, this may go on for a little while but then a tired puppy will always go off to sleep.

Sometimes there are little challenges and that just does not work, and you have a very stressed puppy. This is the time to move the puppy closer to you by using a puppy crate, after a few nights this is the time to slowly separate the puppy by putting them on the landing, then bottom of steps until you reach where you would like them to sleep.

Being separated form your husky puppy shows dominance and is a good way to train them.

2. Providing A Crate For Your Puppy Is A Must
Most people flinch at the thought of having a dog in a crate/cage, as they think it is cruel. To be honest it is one of the most kindest things you could ever give them.
In the wild dogs and puppies sleep in small confined spaces which is den like. They love it, and it makes them feel safe. A crate is nothing more than a den for a dog, it's like their own little house.
Crates need to be introduced slowly to a pup. Give them their food inside it, treats etc and you will find very quickly that they settle and love it. Please never ever take the crate away even when an adult its very precious to them.

There is no problem shutting the door on your puppy, this means you can put them to sleep on an afternoon just like a baby as they do get over tired. Plus if they sleep in the crate you will find they hold on to their bladder longer, as they don't want to piddle on their bed, so it really helps toilet training issues. Accidents can still happen until their bladder gets stronger this is a time to never reprimand your husky puppy as they will end up hating the crate.

3. Give Munchy Raw Food To Eat.
Puppy's will grow at different speeds so it is always great to have some munchy raw veg to keep around for them to gnaw on. Raw carrots and broccoli are great, they provide them with good nutrition and great fun as well.

4. Get Your Puppy To Follow You.
It good to have playtime with your puppy and one good husky training tip is to play and get them to follow you. This could be done in the house and the garden by trailing a lead on the floor and getting the pup to chase it behind you. A leader will always lead its pack, so getting your husky puppy to follow you through doorways is a must, and is the start of getting your puppy to walk beside you on a lead rather than pulling your arms out in front of you.

5. Get Your Pup Ready For Vet Checks.
Your puppy will be taken to the vet from time to time so getting your husky puppy used to being felt in certain areas is a must so aggression does not occur.

It is good to feel their ears, move their tail up and down and feel their paws. Now at this point you may get a little nibbling and biting until your puppy gets used to it, so slow movements are a must when doing this. If your puppy tries to bite your fingers then freeze your hand and in a guttural voice say NO.
It is not good to pull your hand away sharply as they will chase it. All puppies love quick feet/hand movements they think it's a game and will do it more.

6. Always Greet Your Dog At Low Level
Husky dogs jumping on you is a common problem and generally learned when they are a puppy. Husky puppies are nothing more than a lovely cute bundle of fur that everyone wants to pick up and hold. It is not long before a puppy learns that up is for love and affection and down on all 4 paws gets nothing, and this is where jumping starts.

Try and greet your puppy when they have their 4 paws on the floor and give lots of praise they soon then learn that down is for pleasure and up gets nothing which is boring.
It's great for your puppy to get the best nutrition possible and with cancer issues getting worse and worse due to over feeding choosing the best diet for your husky puppy is important. Doing your research on the internet is a must as many people choose to go away from conventional commercial pet foods and decide to naturally feed.

Have a great time enjoying training your husky pup and enjoy every minute as they are just wonderful to be around.

»»  READMORE...

Pomeranian Grooming - How to Do It

Pomeranian grooming is quite a complicated activity and often expensive also. However, It is essential for everyone who would like their sweet pup
py to be clean and tidy, and loved by the other people in the street. Anyway, here are several steps which can lead you to the perfect Pomeranian groom if you tend to follow them, of course.

So, here are the steps:
1. Wash your Pomeranian- there are many products on the market for the purpose. Just choose one of them as they all do the same thing- wash your puppy. But don't skip this step as it is essential for the further procedure of Pomeranian grooming.
2. Use a towel to dry the hair of your Pom. Although the kind of towel is not of great significance, you'd better use a soft one since this breed of dogs is quite sensitive. But what you can also do is purchase a set of special dog dryers which are more efficient but more expensive than the first option with the towel.
3. Afterward, it is time for a new haircut. Start with the hair around the head, and the ears in particular. But be careful so that you do not cut your Pom's ear off. And do not forget that you should do the haircut as soon as the dog has been washed- it is when its hair is most soft. That is an essential part of the Pomeranian grooming and no one could afford to forget it.
4. Check the following: nails, breath and years from the inside. If you want the grooming to be efficient you have got to pay attention to those. And if there is a problem such as too long nails, bad breath, you should fix it in an appropriate way.

»»  READMORE...

Pomeranian Puppies - An Extremely Loyal Breed

Pomeranian puppies can be a sweet and delightful addition to your household. Before you answer that newspaper ad or head down to your pet shop, you should first get a little background on these tiny dogs that includes how to pick them out and what to expect. Descended from the German Spitz dog from the European region, this particular breed is fairly young. While they are a well tempered breed in nature, you will want to consider how they would fit into your current and future lifestyle before adding one to your family.

Pomeranian puppies are small, but generally adult sized Pomeranians are not much larger. They are an active breed that is evenly tempered, even if they do sometimes suffer from what is popularly known as Small Dog Syndrome. Small Dog Syndrome is not a disease, but a negative personality trait that is developed when they are not properly trained by their owners. Uncharacteristic traits like being overly dominant and possessive area direct result of letting this little dog run the show. While Pomeranians are very good dogs for adults, they may be more inclined to act aggressively towards children. Please take care to employ the use of a qualified dog trainer before bringing this breed into any home that is occupied by children, especially if they are already afflicted by Small Dog Syndrome.

Pomeranian puppies should be chosen because of their desirable appearance as well as their origin. Like all dogs, purchasing a dog without the proper paperwork which proves that they are a pure breed can cost you money. If you had planned on competing with the Pomeranian or breeding it, this paperwork will be necessary. Being certain of the dog's ancestry will also be important for medical reasons. Pomeranians come in a very wide variety of colors and patterns. Some are more highly desired than others, however a different or unique pattern should not make you question the dog's origins. Breeders are constantly producing new varieties of this particular dog breed.

After you purchase your Pomeranian puppies, if you keep them well maintained and loved, you should expect to keep them for many years. The average life expectancy for a Pomeranian is over 15 years. Take extreme care with newborn puppies as they are very susceptible to injuries. After the dog is fully grown, they will be extremely playful and need exercise on a daily basis. Pomeranians are not known for having many serious health issues. Because they are so small, costs associated with feeding will be minimal. Keep factors such as the grooming of their particularly long coats in mind.

Purchasing Pomeranian puppies can be a great way to bring a little happiness into your home. This breed of dog is easy to maintain, extremely loyal and you have a large variety of them to choose from. If you live with children, please take their sometimes fickle temperament into consideration before bringing one around a child. These are very small dogs, so you won't need to spend much of feeding them, but grooming their long coats can be a hassle. As long as you weigh all of the pros and cons, you should feel comfortable with your selection.

»»  READMORE...

Yorkshire Terrier Training - Basic Training

Yorkhire puppy

You can have Yorkshire as one of the intelligent and extremely active dog. They will learn the things very fast. Therefore it is crucial to start the training quickly as you bring the puppy home. There are many steps for the Yorkshire terrier training that will make your dog well mannered and respectful to the owner.

Housebreaking training:

They may take many weeks to adopt the place but it can be helpful to teach them many essential things in the house like where they can find food and water, where to potty and where to sleep. You must develop a routine in the training. You can start the training when your pup is about couple of month old. You can teach the words like YES, NO, GOOD, BAD, STOP, and GO. Yorkshire terrier training must be conducted gradually and reward the dog if the things go as you wish for. As they get excited easily, they can lead for several disorders especially in the surrounding. Don't let the small children to play with the pup because their bones are fragile in childhood and can fracture easily.

Obedience training:

After 3 months of age, they will start learning obedience training as they start to understand about the surrounding world. In this Yorkshire terrier training, you can start with the commands like 'sit', stop barking or lie down. In this due course, don't forget about the potty training. It is fact that they will learn slowly but they will learn it. As they get older you can start being firm in the commands.

Professional training:

You have tried out lot of training stuffs with your dog but still he cannot perform as you have wished for, then you can call for the professional trainer who can help you to understand the characteristic and the nature of your yorkie to have the desired results. You also can find many websites that will help you for the Yorkshire terrier training and to work with your dog. You must know how your dog thinks about you before your start the training. The training must be conducted thoroughly without boring your dog as they may get stubborn on you and won't give any result. You have to think about the training time and about the treat when the dog works hard.

»»  READMORE...