Statesman Dog Show Winner!!

Tucker, winner of the Austin American-Statesman Dog Show, is a 7-year-old Shetland sheepdog who lives with Val McNeill. Go to, www.statesman.com for more info on this award winning dog! www.statesman.com

Westminster Contestants: Lillian and "Newton"

"Newton" comes from a line of smart-looking dogs. His grandfather, " Albert", and father, "Einstein", have both shown at Westminster.

Types of Miniature Dogs

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Many people find miniature dogs cute and adorable. These dogs are smaller compared to other dogs, measuring around twelve inches in height on the average. They look like puppies even if they are mature already. There are so many types of miniature dogs all over the world. Some are purebred. Others are mongrel, meaning a mix of two purebreds already.
  
One kind of miniature dogs is the miniature schnauzer. It belongs to the schnauzer family, but is a smaller breed. It is a combined breed of a standard schnauzer and smaller breeds of dogs. The miniature schnauzer was ranked 11th most popular breed of dogs in the United States in the year 2007.
 
Miniature schnauzers have squarely proportioned built. They stand at around 12 to 14 inches in height, and weighs around 11 to 15 pounds. These dogs are double coated. It has an exterior fur with an undercoat. You will find their colors to be either a combination of salt and pepper or a combination of silver and black. There are also pure black. They are called non-shedding dogs because their shedding is very minimal that they are unnoticeable.
 
Let's take a look next at a miniature pinscher. It belongs to the pinscher clan. Most of them are made to hunt vermin or rats. They are labeled the Kings of the Toy Dogs because they look like toy dogs. These dogs belong to the list of the Group 2 Section 1.1 of the international kennel club. Miniature pinscher has a stouter appearance. Its coat is less refined although the earlier breeds had more refined coats. It looks like a smaller version of dobermanns.
 
The miniature bull terrier is also another popular small breed of dogs. It is a result of selective breeding from the bull terrier. Bull terriers have strong build. They have a full body with muscular shoulders. They have egg shaped head, triangular and closely set eyes. They have erect ears and horizontal tails.

The miniature breed of bull terriers has short, fine and glossy coats that are so close to the skin. They have many colors. The least liked color is blue or liver colored coats. These dogs are easy to take care of. They need very minimal grooming. A miniature bull terrier is often mistaken for chihuahua. To differentiate, a bull terrier's weight is proportionate to its height. A Chihuahua is more akin to a miniature pinscher.
 
Another miniature breed is the miniature French bulldogs. These are strong, brave, little dogs with pug noses and square flat heads. They have rounded foreheads and bat ears. They have dark round eyes, soft skin and corkscrew tail. Mini French bulldogs are naturally playful and clownish. They are affectionate, sweet, and immensely funny. They are very sociable and like to have companion always. Thus, they are very appealing to humans, especially children. It can be trained but it will require utmost patience from the trainer.

There are a hundred more different breeds of miniature dogs. They are generally cute and cuddly, and never fail to enliven any home. The wonderful thing about these dogs is that they can be brought inside the home. With their size, they make good companions inside the house without causing much disturbance.

For more information on Pomeranians Miniature Dog and Yorkshire Terriers please visit our website.

Shock Collars Are Cruel To Dogs

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As a springer spaniel named Felicity's Diamond Jim pranced to victory at the recent Westminster Kennel Club dog show at New York's Madison Square Gardens, I was thinking of another springer spaniel named Minnie whose life is quite different from the champ's. Minnie, along with a boxer named Bailey, escaped last month from their yard and fell through the thin ice covering a pond in Connecticut. They might have died in the frigid, muddy water had a neighbor not heard Bailey's frantic barking. An intrepid firefighter braved the icy water and rescued the dogs.

The dogs' brush with death was the result of an invisible fence, which works by administering shocks to dogs via an electronic collar when they approach a boundary. These "fences" and shock collars are a disaster waiting to happen.

They can go haywire and administer constant shocks or deliver no shocks at all when the batteries go dead. Dogs have reportedly suffered serious burns when the collars malfunctioned or got wet. Some dogs may dash through the barrier chasing a squirrel and then become trapped outside, afraid to cross back into their own yards.

Shock collars aren't just unreliable--they also hurt like the devil. At least that's the verdict of people who have actually tested the collars on themselves. Michigan resident Jason Mitchell set up a Web site to show how much electronic collars hurt. He compared the pain of the shock collar to "a mass of black flies biting you all at once." Last July, people who visited Mitchell's Web site could pay either to shock him or to spare him from a shock, with the results broadcast via online video. The fee went higher as the setting on the collar went higher. Mitchell refused to go above level 4―the collar's highest setting is level 7―because he said higher settings produced "painful after-effects." Mitchell generously donated some of the money that he raised to the local humane society.

Shock collars are currently under fire in the U.K., where the Kennel Club and the Association of Pet Dog Trainers are calling for a ban. When the Kennel Club asked members of Parliament (MPs) to test the collars on themselves, they were shocked--literally--at how painful they were. "That really hurt!" said MP Eleanor Laing. "That is positively cruel and I am disgusted." MP Richard Benyon pronounced the experience "horrible ... I definitely would not use one."

Humans can tell us that jolting themselves in the neck isn't a pleasant experience, but what about dogs? A study conducted at the University of Utrecht on German shepherds (not exactly the wimpiest of breeds) found that many of the dogs reacted to shocks with "high pitched yelps, barks and squeals." Indications of stress, such as lowered body posture, continued long after the shocks were administered. Some dogs who had been shocked became fearful merely by being in the presence of their handlers.

People who have used shock collars report that their dogs developed unexpected behaviors in response to being zapped. One dog became fearful of leaving the house, knowing that a painful jolt awaited him outside. Another developed aggression at passing joggers, thinking that they were the ones delivering the shock. One dog whose owner used a shock collar in obedience class became fearful of large groups of people and dogs.

Electronic training devices are simultaneously the laziest and most painful ways to train your dog. No one should entrust his or her best friend's safety to a battery-operated barrier. There is simply no substitute for proper training using positive reinforcement. It may take a little bit more time, but you'll end up with a happier companion who is eager to please instead of being afraid not to.

Alisa Mullins is a senior editor with People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA), 501 Front St., Norfolk, VA 23510; http://www.helpinganimals.com

Tigger Watches the Westminster Dog Show

Tigger loves to watch the Westminster Dog Show. He will be giving his comments on the winners tomorrow, after he watches the second half of the competition.

The 100 Sporting Events You Must See Live

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The Top 100 Sporting Events to see Live.....

1. Masters

2. World Cup

3. Super Bowl

4. Summer Olympics

5. Army vs. Navy Football Game

6. New York City Marathon

7. World Series

8. Winter Olympics

9. Red Sox vs. Yankees at Yankee Stadium

10. UNC vs. Duke Basketball Game at Cameron Indoor Stadium

11. Wimbledon

12. Stanley Cup

13. Tour de France

14. Cubs Game at Wrigley Field

15. BCS National Championship Game in New Orleans

16. Liverpool vs. Manchester United at Old Trafford

17. Michigan vs. Ohio State at The Big House

18. NFL Conference Championships

19. Daytona 500

20. Final Four-NCAA Men's Basketball

21. Ryder Cup

22. Baseball Hall of Fame Induction Weekend

23. Harvard vs. Yale at Yale

24. Kentucky Derby

25. UEFA Champions League

26. Rose Bowl

27. British Open

28. Horse Racing at Saratoga

29. Late Season Green Bay Packers Game at Lambeau Field

30. Canadiens vs. Maple Leafs in Toronto

31. Indy 500

32. Professional Bull Riders World Finals

33. Dubai World Cup

34. Hong Kong Sevens

35. Monaco Grand Prix

36. Running of the Bulls

37. Rugby World Cup

38. Red River Shootout

39. Notre Dame Football Game

40. MLB All-Star Game

41. Iron Bowl at Alabama

42. Epsom Derby

43. Calgary Stampede

44. Koshien Baseball Tournament

45. Special Olympics

46. Soccer Game at Maracana Stadium in Rio

47. Texas Football Friday Night Lights in Odessa

48. U.S. Open Tennis Tournament

49. USC vs. UCLA Basketball Game at Pauley Pavilion

50. Le Mans 24

51. Ironman World Championship

52. Iowa vs. Iowa State Wrestling Meet at Iowa

53. Golden Gloves at Madison Square Garden

54. French Open

55. Baseball Game at Fenway Park

56. Belmont Stakes

57. Kangaroos Australian Football Game

58. Heavyweight Title Fight at Madison Square Garden

59. All Blacks Rugby Game

60. ACC Basketball Tournament

61. Caribbean World Series

62. FA Cup

63. Indiana High School Basketball Tournament Finals

64. U.S. Open Golf Tournament

65. Midnight Madness at University of Kentucky

66. Preakness Stakes

67. NFL Draft

68. National Finals Rodeo

69. Basketball Game at Phog Allen Fieldhouse

70. Basketball Game at Madison Square Garden

71. Prefontaine Classic

72. MLB Opening Day in Cincinnati

73. Nathan's Hot Dog Eating Contest

74. Iditarod

75. Little 500

76. Basketball Game at Rucker Park, Harlem, NY

77. Boston Marathon

78. Cowboys Monday Night Football Game in Dallas

79. Head of the Charles Regatta

80. Florida vs. Georgia Football Game

81. Lady Vols Basketball Game

82. NBA All-Star Game

83. Pipeline Surfing

84. Australian Open Tennis Tournament

85. Baseball Game at Rickwood Field in Alabama

86. Harlem Globetrotters Performance

87. Spring Training Game at Tigertown

88. Backyard Brawl in Morgantown

89. London Marathon

90. Penn Relays

91. Presidents Cup

92. World Junior Hockey Championship

93. Westminster Dog Show

94. NFL Hall of Fame Induction

95. NCAA Men's Lacrosse Championship

96. College Baseball World Series

97. Beanpot Hockey Tournament

98. Bayou Classic

99. Little League World Series

100. UFC Title Fight

As the founder of the global leader in sports event travel, TSE Sports & Entertainment, Robert Tuchman has finally compiled the list of 100 sporting events that every sports fan must attend in his or her lifetime. Tuchman also maps out your travel and ticket options, recommends the best hotels, details restaurants and nightlife and relays tips guaranteed to make each trip a success. Check out the website, http://www.100sportingevents.com, and purchase the book.

American Bulldog Training - Picky Eaters

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Your American bulldog can become fussy eaters just like you. Sometimes they will hold out until they get what they like. This can leave them less than 100% for training.

Dogs have taste buds just like people do. They like certain foods better than others. Do not worry though, as your pet will not go as far as starving himself. He will eat eventually but reluctantly. Not even the most stubborn dog will pass a meal.

Give your dog a well-balanced meal everyday. Make sure you use the same ingredients so it tastes the same. Chances are he will get used to this same taste. Also, do not over feed him with dog treats. Think of these as junk food.

Do not force your dog to eat. Put the food away until he is ready to eat. When he does go hungry, he will approach and let you know. If each meal tastes the same, he will not be expecting anything else and will eat it right away.

Avoid feeding him "people food" as much as you can. Make sure that he does not steal food from the counter either. He may look for the taste which is not the same as dog food and make him a picky eater.

If this keeps going, you might want to consider that something is wrong with your dog. A quick visit to your local veterinarian should help put your mind at ease.

Remember to feed your dog a healthy meal on a regular basis.

Your dog may lack the energy for American bulldog training or Alaskan malamute training if he does not eat. Know how to solve this in this short article.

If you are interesting in learning about American Bulldogs, specifically training American Bulldogs, check out this website => American Bulldog training

Dogs on ME TV

Well, Chris Miele invited me on another dog adventure! This time she was going to the Nickelodeon studios on west 25th Street to take part in a kids show called ME TV! She had two of her goldens with her, along with a significant amount of agility equipment. And a tornado watch was in the works! Life is always exciting with Chris! The concept of this show is very cool. The audience can participate with web cams, and can vote and communicate with the hosts live on the air. We spent several hours in the Green Room eating cookies and socializing with the other dog people there. David Frei of Westminster was a guest host for the show. David is always charming, knowledgable and reassuring. He knows absolutely everything you need to know about dogs. And he gives his time generously to many good causes. There were a lot of really great dogs in that little room waiting for their turn to shine. Handsome Corgis, an elegant Poodle, two lovable Shar Peis, a brilliant Border Collie, happy beautiful Springers, lively Dalmatians, and of course our two wonderful Goldens, Buck and Dixie.Everyone was quite well-behaved, given the cramped quarters, and a good time was had by all. Chris ended up closing the show with a dazzling live-tv segment of agility by Buck, the wonder dog! Here is a short video of life in the Green Room...

The Westminster Dog Show

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The Westminster Dog Show is a two-day extravaganza featuring more than 2,600 dogs and 165 breeds. You may be interested to know that the Westminster dog show is one of the oldest annual sporting events in the USA, second only to the Kentucky Derby.

Today, the Westminster dog show is not just for hunting dogs, but includes all kinds of different breeds and has turned its focus from working dog's performance in the field, to it's appearance as well. The Westminster Dog Show is now in its 132th year, and only champions, which are vetted through a series of lesser contests, are allowed to participate in the Nobel prize of the canine world.

The first Westminster dog show was held in 1877 when a group of hunters decided to get together at the Westminster Hotel in Manhattan to compare their purebred dogs, and it eventually grew over time to what it is today. The Westminster Dog Show features different breeds of dogs and their owners performing in a nerve-racking competition that's as intense as it is old.

Every February, thousands of AKC dogs and their exhibitors make their way into Madison Square Garden for two intensive days of showing that, when all the barking is over, will crown the best dog in the country. Dogs are judged on their general appearance, condition and carriage, with special attention being paid to the dog's head (including the eyes, ears, skull and muzzle).

Until 1992, this event was a full show, meaning all classes were included from dog and bitch competition for Winners, to Best of Breed, Group, and Best In Show. From 1992 onward, only the creme de la creme of the dog world were deemed eligible for the greatest show in the country, and entries were limited to finished champions as mentioned earlier.

Currently, the show is limited to a total entry of 2,622 champions in all from over 165 AKC recognized dog breeds. When not being groomed, exercised or shown, all dogs are to be displayed in their assigned bench spot, this gives the public aisle upon aisle of the best purebred dogs in the country to view. It also gives the public the chance to connect with breeders, most of whom are only too happy to share their knowledge of all things dog, and in particular, the wonderful attributes of their breed. In the past, this show was extended to a four day event due to it's immense popularity with the public and exhibitors alike, but currently the show has been packed into two full days of dog showing.

Presently, all dog breeds are divided into one of seven groups, including:
Toys,Non-Sporting,Sporting,Working,Herding,Terrier, and Hound. Although it may appear that dogs of different breeds are competing with each other, it is actually the judge's job to choose which of the dogs is the best representative of their breed standard. The dog who is the most turned on, moving energetically and totally in tune with his handler can't help but catch the judges eye, and usually winds up with a Group first placement.

With the awarding of the Group 1 placements, the field of over 2,500 deserving champions is narrowed down to the top 7, and from this elite company the highly coveted Best In Show dog is selected, and after a few moments of excruciating suspense, the judge presents the winning dog/handler team with a huge BIS rosette ribbon, and the Westminster show trophy.

The Westminster dog show is still the greatest dog show on earth, and undoubtedly the most famous of all American shows. Are you aware that the anniversary of the first Westminster Dog Show is May 8th. Can I just say that watching the Westminster Dog show is in my top 5 sporting events every year, including Olympic years.

The Westminster dog show is comming on TV next week (on the cable channel USA) And will be aired tomorrow and Tuesday night. Westminster Dog Show tickets are available, and this event is a tradition that dates back longer than almost every other sporting event in the United States. Although a few corporate sponsored shows have tried to usurp the Westminster Kennel Club dog show of it's pride of place in recent years, for true dog show aficionados, this show is, and always will be, the Holy Grail of all dog shows.

Below is The Television Schedule For The Event :

Monday, February 11

Live Telecast:

Monday, Feb 11 (8-9 PM Live ET / 5-6 PM PT) on USA Network

Continuing Live Telecast:

Monday, Feb 11 (9-11 PM Live ET / 6-8 PM PT) on CNBC

Best of Group Competitions will be judged in the following order:
- Working

- Terrier

- Toy

- Non-Sporting

Tuesday, February 12

Live Telecast:

Tuesday, Feb 12 (8-11 PM Live ET / 5-8 PM PT) on USA Network

Best of Group Competitions will be judged in the following order:

- Sporting

- Hound

- Herding

Followed by Best In Show Judging

Article Written By J. Foley

J. Foley Has A Great Site "Just About Dogs"

The AKC Golden Retriever Breed

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Golden retrievers are very popular breed of dogs. They are even considered as America's favorite dog. The AKC golden retriever is one of the most popular bloodline of golden retrievers. AKC stands for American Kennel Club. They are a club that breeds different kinds of dogs. They also sell puppies and grown up canines. They also sell dog accessories, foods and vitamins, and medicines. They also have contact to certified dog breeders. They also promote dog shows and dog competitions.

Taking care of golden retrievers is not an easy task. One should not dare try to acquire this breed of dog without having thorough knowledge and understanding about them. A lot of expenses also await those who are really eager to take care of this kind of dog. You have to spend a lot with the vaccination, foods, and certification upon acquiring this dog. The American Kennel Club (AKC) can provide you all of that. They can guide you all throughout the raising process.

Although it takes a lot of time and effort in taking care of a retriever, it will all be worth the sacrifices when you successfully raised it. They are very loving, enthusiastic, and eager to please people. They are very good companions. If they were taught and trained carefully, they can entertain you a lot. That is why most people who have been successful in raising their retrievers want to breed them. Not only that it can give them some profit, but also gives them a lot of joy. They also tend to join in dog shows like the AKC dog shows and competitions.

It is also best to have your AKC golden retriever registration to ensure that your retriever is of good health and purebred. Most buyers of retrievers go for those puppies or grown ups that were AKC registered to ensure that they are buying quality breed retrievers. This assures them that the dog they will be raising are free from diseases and ailments such as hip and elbow dysplasia, heart disease, cancer, joint disease, and many others.

Purchasing an AKC golden retriever can assure you of having lovely, beautiful, and purebred retrievers that you and your family will surely love. Aside from the fact that they can be made as a good companion, they are also good as a guide dog, rescue and retrieval, narcotics detection, and having a good profit if bred successfully.

Steve D. Taylor is a proud owner of healthy Golden Retrievers. He shares his knowledge and experiences to other people who want to know more about this dog breed through useful information about AKC Golden Retrievers. All his knowledge and experiences about raising healthy retrievers were compiled in his book "Golden Retriever Care Secrets: The Ultimate Owner's Guide" for those who are willing and just novice in the field of raising Retrievers. In order to learn more about how to be able to keep your Retrievers healthy and happy, please visit his website at http://www.goldenretrieverpetcenter.com/.

Finding an Apartment That Matches Your Tastes

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Hmm...tastes good. How to find an apartment that matches your taste. I am excited to try out one of those new culinary pseudo-classes that let you show up and prepare your own meals that are supposed to last you for about a month. The only reason I have hesitated is I'm a bit of a picky eater. I don't care for vegetables, and I also don't care for seafood (an unpopular decision in this era of sushi, so I tell people I'm allergic).

Another words, I don't want to show up expecting chicken and find out that half the menu is seafood. So, in essence, I am chicken to show up. Stop with the booing...that's funny. Well, apartment shopping is the exact same thing for me. I'm a bit chicken. I need to find an affordable place, but I want to make sure I end up in an apartment that I really like. I want it to match my tastes, my life. Basically, I want it to be perfect.

Not much in life is perfect, so how can I get close?

Tip 1: Think through the specifics

Think through your location: location to family, friends, work and nightlife. Who do I need to live by? Who do I see weekly? Can I stand to commute 40 minutes if it means I save $75 a month? Do I need to live downtown or will the suburbs suffice? Do I go out three times a week, or twice a month?

Think through your budget: financial planners say only 30% of your income should be spent on your housing costs. Not a big problem if you make $6,000 a month. A little bit more of a problem when you make $1,600 a month. What's your realistic, total budget? And even though I may want a one-bedroom with a den, can I only afford an efficiency?

Think through your pet situation: I have a dog. He's a miniature poodle. Would I be willing to part with Ziggy? Never. Can I afford to shell out $500 for a pet deposit. Never. Could I afford $250 if I saved up beforehand? Possibly. Think through if you plan on getting that bulldog you've always wanted. First, does the community you want to live in even accept pets? If so, how much will the deposit cost? You may need to save up, or bow out.

Tip 2: Research your options

Now it's time to compare. I like this catalog for a quick reference, but I also like to go online to look at virtual tours and compare amenities. At apartmenthomeliving.com, I can fill out a personality profile that matches me to the apartments that are right. It even goes a step further to find out what else I like. Do I want a pool? Do I work out? You betcha. There's a match out there and I want to see all the choices.

Tip 3: Visit your top choices and enlist the help of friends

Seeing is believing. I know that the product itself is terribly important to me. I have to visit to know it feels good to me when I drive in. I want lush landscaping. I want good lighting in the living room, and a pool with a nightlife around it. I want a clean apartment. I can only find out these details by visiting.

While I'm visiting, do I like my leasing professional? Does she seem knowledgeable? Friendly? Does she answer my questions about maintenance to where I feel comfortable? Do I trust this person? Because this is who I'm going to get on the phone when something goes wrong in my apartment. And two pairs of eyes are better than one! Do my friends agree this is a cool place to live? Will they visit me here to hang out? Do they agree with what I think?

Make your decision

Finally, decide what's the best match for you. I knew when I picked Ziggy it was love. I know when I pick my next apartment it will at least be lust! And that can last at least a year. Happy hunting!

Jeff's just a regular guy with a funny goatee that really enjoys people and life. On top of that he is a bit of an expert on apartments, living in them, and getting the most out of the apartment living lifestyle.

As a Managing Partner of Apartment Home Living, Jeff wants to help you find the right apartment by getting to know you. Not only where you want to live & what you want to pay, but what you like. This way, we can help you find an apartment that fits your personality, not just your budget.

At AHL Apartmentites have a platform to share their own stories, get great info & tips on apartment living, read Jeff's entertaining blogs/stories, find Answers to a wide array of apartment related questions, and have a ton of fun sharing their love of apartment living with others. Don't forget to go and set up your own MyPlace page to really get the full Apartmentite experience!

Serious Safety Concerns in Dog Training

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Are you using a stick or the carrot in your dog training? The canine stick is generally defined as the material you use in order to prod the donkey to move forward. Ergo, this is not something that is ideal to use on your furry friend when engaged in dog training. However, the stick is sometimes used as rewards of pet hounds. You can use the stick as a reward for your pet canine for behaving properly and you can actually give your pet canine a treat by surprising him with a stick.

One of the raging issues relating to the use of stick is the level of safety of this technique when used in the guidance activity. In fact, a lot of veterinarians strongly oppose the use of the stick in teaching our pet mongrels. Nonetheless, there are safety precautions which you can adopt so that this safety concern can be properly addressed. If you are seriously concerned about the use of the stick, it is a good idea to discuss this with your veterinarian so that you can get more inputs and suggestions from him regarding the safe use of the stick on our pet hound.

In order to ascertain the safe way of using the stick on your dog, it is important that you are well aware of the possible instances that the stick can bring harm to your pet mutt.

1. Your pet may get impaled with the stick

Believe it or not, your pet can get impaled with the stick if you don't strictly observe the safety precautionary measures. Your pet mongrel can be seriously hurt if the stick hits him on the throat, eye and mouth.

2. Your pet can get knocked by the stick on the head

This is very dangerous to your pet mutt as the stick has sharp ends and is hard. Your pet mongrel can get hit by the stick on its forehead which can result to serious head injuries.

3. Your pet can accidentally swallow the stick or a piece of it

Pieces of the stick when swallowed can plug up the pet canine. It can also cause serious internal injuries to your pet mutt.

4. The stick can get stuck inside the mouth

The last thing that you want to happen is getting the stick wedged inside the mouth of your furry friend and stabbing the soft palette. This can be a serious injury which will require immediate medical attention.

In general, before you start using the stick as an essential item in the guidance activities for your pet mongrel, it is important that you do the necessary research about the topic. Consider the expert opinion of veterinarians and professional trainers so that you will gain insights from all possible perspectives. Discuss your plans with your veterinarian and consider all his recommendations.

You may also go online and check out some relevant information about the use of the stick on your dog. Consider the discussions on forums about the topic. If by chance, you don't find the information sufficient for your needs, you may post your query online in sites that offer this feature. In this way, you will be able to take the precautionary measures to ensure that no harm will come your pet's way.

Chuck Stewart recently looked into dog training Philadelphia for his dog. His wife checked dog training NYC for her new puppy.

Finnish Spitz Dog Breed

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Most often we find dogs make wonderful pets, however there are a few that make great working dogs for certain situations. You will find the Finnish Spitz dog breed is a great watchdog or hunter. They were breed early on to bark for a hunter to alert him of other animals. This can make the Finnish Spitz a little difficult to handle if you have neighbors unless you train him not to bark. You will find the Finnish Spitz dog breed to reach twenty- five pounds and about eighteen inches in height. They are golden red in color or auburn. The coat is soft to the touch. It is a dense coat with long hair.

The appearance of the Finnish Spitz is almost like a fox. They have small ears with a small pointed snout. You will also find their tail tends to curl back towards the head rather than hanging down or in an up position. One you have considered the appearance of the dog breed as your new family member you will want to consider their temperament. As stated they tend to bark a lot as they were breed for hunting; however they also make wonderful family pets for children. While it is best to supervise these dogs around small children they don't become aggressive or threatening. You will also find they are very active, intelligent, and affectionate dogs. They are aware of anger in a person's voice so you should always be gentle.

Training can be a little more difficult due to a stubborn streak, but if you are firm and gentle you will find the Finnish Spitz dog breed reacts better to commands. The intelligence this dog has also means he needs activity during training, or he will become bored. You will want to use patience during the training and make sure to train this dog breed daily. Always continue to work on skills. During training as a puppy you will be able to teach your dog to bark less or only at certain things. This can help make him a wonderful pet for the neighborhood. Remember though, that training for barking must begin as soon as possible.

While barking can be a small downside to this breed the temperament more than makes up for it. You will also find the care is rather easy. They tend to take care of the cleaning themselves. With long haired dogs you do have to brush them at least once a week and clean around their paws. You will find bathes are not necessary and should only be done if they begin to smell. They have sensitive skin so it is important not to bath them a lot. You will need to take care of their teeth and trim their nails at least once a year if not twice. As long as you take care of your dog's health by exercising him daily and not giving them a lot of treats you will find health problems will be kept to a minimum and they can live to at least thirteen years if not more. Exercise for the Finnish Spitz is important and they love to run. As long as you give them an hour or more a day to run outside, take walks, and have play time you will find them a wonderful companion. They can be taught to catch and retrieve items, tug of war, and just general fun.

Keep in mind that if you start out with an adult you may need to seek training to help with their bark and it can be a difficult road.

Ashley Peach's websites include Dog, Christmas Dog Toys and Kong Dog Toys.

The Pregnant Man | Pregnant Man's Diary | Channel 4

Thomas used a small camera to keep a record of his pregnancy... | Watch The Pregnant Man FREE on Catch-Up www.channel4.com Visit the official website at channel4.com www.channel4.com Watch 1000s of Channel 4 clips www.channel4.com

Dog Obedience Training

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Too many times people have seen that puppy in the window, and purchased on impulse and not logic. While the affection for your pet will be the same whether it was well thought out or not, sending your pooch to Dog Obedience School can make the transition easier for the whole family. A well trained dog is not only easier to manage, but is a more secure pet. Why should you send your pet to Puppy School? Here's a few reasons that make it important.

Perhaps you have seen the show "It's Me or the Dog". This is a program that demonstrates in real life what can happen when a dog has not been sent to Dog Obedience School. The lessons learned can help your family avoid the feeling that the dog has taken over the house and make sure you stay in charge.

Dogs learn best through body language. The best way to train your dog is to speak their language. Most novices don't have this fully mastered, and working with a professional at a Puppy School can help you learn. A qualified trainer will be able to guide you through the process of proper tone of voice, reward systems, and your overall body language with your new dog.

By working with a professional, you can get feedback on how well you are doing. Your Dog Obedience School teacher can point out small changes that will make a big difference. Once you have learned how to communicate, then you can begin to work together with your dog.

Dog Obedience School also allows your dog to learn in an environment that has distractions, such as other dogs. When learning commands such as "stay" and "sit", it is much easier to get results in a familiar setting if the commands have been mastered with distractions around.

Puppy School is also good to teach your dog to socialize properly. When you take your puppy out for that morning walk, you don't want any surprises as he lunges for another dog or tries to run away. Being familiar with other canines is a healthy way to keep your dog happy. Your dog isn't the only one who might benefit from the social interactions - pet owners are known to live longer and be happier.

Having a well trained dog makes your dog happier. Dogs are genetically "pack animals" and have a pecking order. Someone has to be in charge in order for your dog to function normally, and you want that someone to be you. Sending your dog to Puppy School or Dog Obedience School can help you learn how to make your dog safe and happy.

Dogs will learn best with a "reward" system and not the punishment method. Going through dog obedience training with your puppy will help you learn how to properly give out praise so that it doesn't turn into a bribe. Dogs are incredibly intelligent, and knowing how to outsmart them will keep you ahead of the training game.

Dog obedience training isn't just for the canine. Dog owners have to learn to anticipate a dogs reaction to things, and by learning the basic thought process, you can ward off bad behaviour with a few modifications around your home. Prevention is often the key to your sanity. It may go without saying that you shouldn't leave your nice shoes sitting out, but what about your furniture?

It is possible to train your puppy yourself. If you decide to do this, make sure that you read up on methods and that you are seeing positive results. It's much easier to avoid behaviour problems than to modify them later. Dog Obedience School is the preferred method for training your new pooch.

Learning to balance life with a new dog is much like becoming a new parent. You and your dog will continue to figure out the rules and boundaries together, while developing a close and rewarding relationship. Now that your new dog is home, get Puppy School finished so you can enjoy watching your little fur ball grow into a loyal companion for years to come.

Find out more:
Dog and Puppy Training - Article: http://www.squidoo.com/Dog_Obedience_School
Dog Obedience and Puppy Potty Training for well behaved and well trained dogs - Website: http://www.puppypal.org/

A Nutsy Human Competition

This is a competition that involves the dog show worlds finest; esteemed judges, a transvestite, handler, photographer, MBF representative, a feather boa, whip, and an examination like you have never before seen. All in the fashion of a dog show.

Dog Paparazzi

Schmitty's Westminster Weather Report - Sunday, Feb. 14

Meteorologist Ron Trotta and Schmitty The Weather Dog are at Madison Square Garden on the eve of the WKC Dog Show to report the weather. For more information on New York City, go to Schmitty's blog at www.GottaVisitNYC.com.

Choosing a Dog Breed

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Buying a new pet, especially a dog can be very exciting. It is worth considering your lifestyle choices and those who live with you before choosing a dog breed. Choosing any family pet may depend on several factors which must be taken into account. Perhaps the most important question is: are you prepared to take good care of the animal and treat it accordingly?

If the answer to the above question is yes, the next step is to decide the reason you would like a dog. There can be many reasons such as protection, as a pet for a child, as a show dog or simply for the sake of companionship. This is an important factor in choosing the correct breed.

After that you should consider your living circumstances as many of the other decisions will depend on this. You should consider the area in which you live: do you live in the town or countryside? This can limit how often and where you can take a dog for walks. Next you should consider the size of your house: do you have ample space for the new dog to cohabit with the owners and any existing pets? Does your house have a garden where the creature can play or rest? It is also worth thinking about how often the pet will be left alone each day. If you are going for an expensive rare breed this will obviously have to be very limited; however on the flipside if you decide to choose a big energetic dog then you still may not be able to leave it alone for extended periods.

Another side of lifestyle considerations is the associated costs with raising a pet. Ideally you should have a budget for basic needs such as foods and cleaning products. You should also take into account the possibility of other events happening. For example a situation may arise where you will need to leave the dog with somebody for an extended period of time on a paid basis. You should also think about health costs and possible veterinary services. A limited budget also means that your ability in choosing specially bred dogs may be more limited. However this should not stop you from being able to find a good pet.

Pets like human beings require attention and care. To many people their dog is a normal member of the household. Dogs must be given regular exercise and training to keep them active and in a healthy state. They must have necessarily health checks and be given essential vaccinations. Taking the dog down to the park for a walk is something you should fit into your weekly schedule.

Once you have acknowledged the extent of your lifestyle and your ability in raising a pet, it is time to decide the type of breed. The first thing to think about is the size. Make sure to discuss this with other members of the family as this is a big limitation on what breed of dog you may choose. Do you really have enough space for a German Shepard? Or are you prepared to deal with small Chihuahuas running around the house and having to look for them from time to time?

Perhaps one of the most underestimated things about any pet is the aging of the animal. Animals have a different lifespan to human beings. The reason that this is important is as important as buying the pet in the first place. Considering many people buy dogs for company, a family can very easily become attached to the animal. The pet becomes a 'member' of the family. For many people loosing a pet can be as shocking as loosing a very close relative.

Once you have planned and taken into account all factors, its time to make the exciting trip down the pet store or going to see a few dogs with other family members. Then you can hopefully make a decision as to who you would like to welcome to your house as new member.

Copyright 2005 Dave Markel

For more free articles about dogs and the reeds visit [http://for-more-info.com/dogs/choosing-breed.html]

London's Traditional Pubs

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Many people visit the city of London to see the numerous famous buildings such as Big Ben and Westminster Abbey. However there is often a wealth of history and character that is overlooked in the form of the traditional London pub. Everything from small taverns that barely have enough room for a table to opulent establishments adorned with murals and original timber frames cover the city. History buffs can visit the Dog and Duck in Soho where it has been since 1734 or for something more macabre try the Ten Bells pub a reputed haunt for Jack the Ripper.

London's traditional pubs are an important part of the city's personality and in them you will find a diverse crowd made up of people from every walk of life. Poverty stricken students rub shoulders with high salaried financial executives and tourists sit on tables next to locals who consider the pub their second home. Almost every traditional pub in London will serve food of some type and many of the best dishes can be found in these establishments.

If you want to sample some traditional English food it is worth ordering something off of the pub menu. Dishes such as a ploughman's lunch or cod and chips are usually available and reasonably priced in comparison to many of the restaurants.

Many of London's traditional pubs have been converted into luxury boutique hotels and brewing companies like Fuller's and Young's offer rooms in a number of their pubs. An original alternative to London hotels the rooms are usually of a very high standard and include breakfast which is served downstairs in the main bar. Because many of the traditional pubs are in Victorian and Georgian buildings the hotel rooms are normally larger than the average hotel rooms with high ceilings and original fittings.

London's traditional pubs play a great many roles in the social life of its residents. They can be a regular meeting place for clubs and societies, a favourite place for family Sunday lunch or the first stop on a night out in the city. For a quintessentially English experience visitors to London should step into one of the many traditional pubs they encounter on their visit.

Roo Sadegi is a travel writer based in London's East End, although he spends much of his time travelling around Europe's travel hotspots.

Is An Akita Inu The Right Dog For You

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The Akita, or Akita Inu hails from the Akita region of Japan where they breed has been revered for centuries. Throughout history they've been used as flood dogs, fighting dogs and for hunting deer and bear but today many people keep them as loving companions. Introduced to the United States in 1937 by Helen Keller the Akita Inu became even more popular after World War II when many American servicemen brought them back.

A member of the American Kennel Club working group, the Akita Inu was admitted to the AKC in 1972. It is a spitz type dog with the car and a triangular shaped head who weighs in at between 75 and 120 pounds. This dog has a powerful strong build with a deep, broad chest and level back. His ears stand erect on his head and he has dark brown eyes and a black or brown nose. The tail is carried high over the back. The Akita is a great swimmer due to his webbed feet. This dog has a double coat made up of a thick insulated undercoat and a waterproof outer coat and comes in white, red, sesame or brindle.

The Akita Inu is very affectionate with his family and while docile and home, can be aggressive towards other animals when he is outdoors being taken for walk. He is intelligent and fearless - a dog faithful to his family that craves companionship. This dog can be willful, however, so training will require patience as well as diversity since he can also become bored easily.

Like many purebred dogs the Akita does have some health issues that he is prone to. Hypothyroid and autoimmune thyroiditis can come up in this breed as can hip dysphasia. They can also suffer from terrible skin problems in immune diseases such as VKH. They can also have problems with their knees and our eyes.

Although they are a large dog, the Akita Inu can adapt well to apartment life as long as he gets sufficient exercise. In fact, a moderate amount of exercise is all this dog needs to keep in shape than happy.

This dog does not have any excessive grooming considerations, however the thick coat does shed heavily twice a year. They should be brushed with a firm bristle brush as often as needed and, of course, daily when shedding. Do not bathe your Akita unless it is necessary as giving him a bath will cause the natural waterproofing on their coat to be disrupted.

Lee Dobbins writes for http://www.dogbreeds123.com where you can learn more about dog care as well as information and photos of your favorite dog breeds inlcuding the Akita Inu.

The Purina National 2010

Enjoy Pomp, Pageantry and Purebreds England has Crufts. New York has Westminster, and now Canada has The Purina National, where you' ll experience non-stop excitement and fun! It's Canada's most prestigious dog show, with top international judges on hand as hundreds of purebreds from around the world compete for their share of honour and prize money. A charity event for the Canadian Kennel Club Foundation Three action-packed days! Watch championship dog shows, obedience trials, and Rally Obedience trials. See breed demonstrations and educational displays. Meet breeders, see dogs being groomed to perfection, and shop for the perfect gift. It's the place for dog enthusiasts and families looking for some March Break fun. www.purina.ca

Working Group at the 132nd Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show

The wonderful Working Group on Feb 12, 2008 at the 132nd Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show, including a new breed to the AKC, the Tibetan Mastiff. You can buy the complete show on DVD from www.westminsterkennelclub.org The AKC Working Breeds are: Akita, Alaskan Malamute, Anatolian Shepherd Dog, Bernese Mountain Dog, Black Russian Terrier, Boxer, Bullmastiff, Doberman Pinscher, German Pinscher, Giant Schnauzer, Great Dane, Great Pyrenees, Greater Swiss Mountain Dog, Komondor, Kuvasz, Mastiff, Neapolitan Mastiff, Newfoundland, Portuguese Water Dog, Rottweiler, Saint Bernard, Samoyed, Siberian Husky, Standard Schnauzer, and Tibetan Mastiff. Honors (Feb 14): #88 - Most Viewed (Today) - Pets & Animals #57 - Top Favorites (Today) - Pets & Animals Feb 15: #33 - Most Viewed (Today) - Pets & Animals #46 - Top Favorites (Today) - Pets & Animals

Coat Care of Long Haired Sporting Dogs

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The luxurious locks of Irish English and Gordon Setters, Flat Coat, and Golden Retrievers are what beauty in a dog means. Keeping them that way means a lot of work on the part of their lucky owners, enjoy these tips to keeping these beautiful animals looking and feeling their best.

1. In The Spring Time- Fleas begin infesting grass and carpets again, after a slowdown period from the winter. Borax in the carpet overnight once a week and a bi yearly spray on all of your grass should be started. Dogs with very dry skin can show allergies this time of year, and keeping tabs on the long haired guys is a must when everything is blooming and pollen is high, as dogs typically show allergies not by sneezing but by an irritated coat. Fur will also need extra brushing, as the winter fur sheds out and is replaced by new summer fur. If you are brushing once a week, step that up to twice a week until the winter coat is completely gone. If you took a break from your Frontline, start it up again.

2. In The Summer Time- Fleas are in full rage now and you will really benefit from that spray job on your lawn you did that spring. Keeping it mowed will give fleas a smaller hiding spot as well. If you have gone camping with your dog, make sure you are checking that gorgeous coat for ticks, check it well that is a lot of hair to hide in. Pollen is dying down in the summer, but keep that dog cool by shaving the belly, or foregoing that they are sporting dogs and love the water, a small plastic pool will help them and you will laugh all summer long at their antics. It is a must that these long haired dogs have access to water at all times, that fur keeps them extremely warm.

3. In The Fall Season- This is when you are going to do your second bi annual lawn spray for fleas. Fall is tricky, Indian summer in many places can keep temperatures raging to 90 degrees, and dog hair knows that winter is on its way so keep that grooming going to make sure you know what your dog's body is up too. You will find that wispy summer coat all over your carpet; keep up that Frontline and Borax. Bathe on sunny days and enjoy watching the leaves turn.

4. In The Winter Time- Older dogs may not grow the kind of robust coat they did when younger, so make sure they have a downy fuzz to keep them warm. A blanket, like one a horse might wear, can be purchased if the dog is cold. Some Dogs grow such a robust coat that grooming must again be stepped up to twice a week. This is the time of year many areas can take a break from the Frontline, but I keep up the Borax in the carpet, fleas still breed in warm houses.

Caring for long haired dogs can be a hassle, but some of the breeds are definitely worth the time. Some of my favorite long haired sporting dog breeds are Golden Retrievers and the Flat Coat Retriever.

Westminster breed: Bernese Mountain Dog (with puppies)

More videos: tinyurl.com One of a series of videos highlighting the different breeds from the Hudson Valley competing in this year's Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show.