As you begin your search for a dog, you are probably asking yourself, “What type of dog would be best for me?” Dogs come in many different sizes, colors, coats, and personalities. Start your dog ownership off on the right foot by doing your research before you settle on a breed.

While there are around 400 recognized breeds, the best place to start is by looking at the approx. 155 breeds recognized by the American Kennel Club, broken down into seven broad categories. Within each breed category are subgroups.

Sporting Group

Sporting dogs were originally bred to help man hunt birds by retrieving the birds from water or bushes. Nature has conditioned them to retrieve; they also love fetching balls and newspapers, and they make great companions. Members of the Sporting Group include retrievers, pointers, setters, and spaniels. A naturally active breed, regular brisk exercise is a must with these dogs to avoid excessive chewing, jumping and barking.

Hound Group

Hounds were originally bred for hunting. There are three main subgroups: scent hounds, sighthounds, and large game hounds. Sighthounds make gentle pets, but they love to run after fast-moving targets. They include the Greyhound, Irish Wolfhound, and Whippet. Scent hounds follow their nose and it can be difficult to get their attention when they are on the trail of something. They are sweet, loving, and make good companions. Among them are the Beagle and Bloodhound. Large game hounds like the Rhodesian Ridgeback were bred to hunt lions, elk and other game. They are powerful, fearless and make good watch dogs.

Working Group

The breeds in this group were bred to help man. Their jobs range from rescue to sledding and guarding. They are intelligent, learn quickly, and make good companions. However, most of them are very large, strong dogs and they may not be suitable for families with young children. Proper training is very important with these breeds. Among the breeds are sled dogs like the Siberian Husky and Samoyed; draft dogs that were bred to pull heavy loads like the Bernese Mountain Dog; guard dogs including the Bullmastiff, Rottweiler and Akita; and rescue/water dogs such as the Newfoundland and Saint Bernard.

Herding Group

Dogs in the herding group were, you’ve guessed it, bred to herd. They are lively, agile, alert, respond well to training, and make great pets. They love lots of exercise and if they can’t find a sheep to herd they will happily (and gently) herd their owners or children. Herding dog include the Australian Shepherd, Border Collie, German Shepherd, Old English Sheepdog, Cardigan Welsh Corgi and Pembroke Welsh Corgi.

Non-Sporting Group

Originally many of these dogs were working dogs, but these days they are mainly companions. These breeds vary widely in size, coat, temperament, and personality. Among the diverse breeds are the Bichon Frise, Chow Chow, French Bulldog, Keeshond, Poodle, and Schipperke.

Terrier Group

Terriers are a determined bunch, and original bred as either vermin hunters or fighting breeds. Vermin hunters are lively, independent and do best on a leash when outdoors. Terriers can become barkers or chewers if not properly trained, and sometimes can get aggressive over food or toys. The fighter group includes the Bull Terrier and American Staffordshire Terrier. They can make good pets if properly trained and socialized, but without training they can be a possible danger to people and other dogs.

Toy Group

The Toy breeds are very small, playful, devoted to their owners, and love and demand attention. Their main purpose is to be adorable and they are terrific lapdog. They need less exercise than other breeds and do well in apartments or other small quarters, and are a good choice for older people. Some, however, may bark or snap if they are not trained. Toy Breeds include the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, Chihuahua, Maltese, Pekinese, Pug, and Toy Poodle.

By doing your research before you choose a breed, you’ll be a big step ahead in finding the dog that fits your personality and lifestyle, and you’ll have a great companion for years to come.

Valerie Goettsch is webmaster of my-favorite-dog.com My Favorite Dog featuring articles and information on my-favorite-dog.com types of dog breeds, dog health issues, training, and more.

Tags: bull terrier, chihuahua, dog breed, dog breeds, rhodesian ridgeback, rottweiler, saint bernard

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Tags: bull terrier, chihuahua, dog breed, dog breeds, rhodesian ridgeback, rottweiler, saint bernard

Travel season is finally here again and that means hundreds of cats and dogs will be lost and never again found by their heartbroken owners. Many years ago I lost a dog for three days. They were among the worst days of my life but I learned a valuable lesson. No matter how careful and protective you think you are, it still can happen…even to you.

Before you set out for your travel adventures this year, take some precautions to be sure your Chihuahua stays safely with you at all times. Make your travel as great for your Chihuahua as it is for you.

So, what are some of the things you can do to prepare for your trip with your Chi?

Bring a harness with you and be sure it is secured properly on your Chi before opening any doors. I prefer a harness because of the Chihuahua’s susceptibility to a collapsed trachea. The harness, if fit properly to the Chi’s size, will put less pressure on the throat, or possibly no pressure at all. They are also more difficult for the Chi to slip out of.

Bring plenty of bottled water for both you and your Chihuahua. You may not always have fresh water available to you on your travels. You don’t want your Chi to drink any water that you can’t be 100% certain is fit for consumption.

Take your veterinary records and information with you. Place the documentation in a sealable plastic bag to protect it from getting wet or damaged. This will be very helpful should you have any emergencies along the way. Your Chihuahua may have an allergic reaction to something or simply have an unexpected medical emergency. If this happens you will want to be able to have quick contact with your own veterinarian for advice. Be sure you have their emergency number, as well as their regular office number.

Pack an ample supply of fresh food and treats. Plastic containers, like Tupperware, are great for keeping food and treats fresh. Be sure to check the package for refrigeration needs, if any. Like people food, some pet foods require refrigeration once opened. Unless you have an RV or other means of keeping the food cold for long periods of time, you may want to be careful of what you bring. Not all pet foods will necessarily be readily available to purchase along your travels. Once opened, food can spoil very quickly.

Plan to make scheduled stops to let your Chi get some exercise and do their duty, so to speak. The fresh air and movement will be good for you too. However, be careful of where you walk your Chi. It is not uncommon to find broken glass and other dangerous items along roadside stops.

Did you know that you can have a rice-sized microchip implanted in the scruff of your Chi’s neck for tracking purposes should he/she become lost? Check with your Veterinarian or local animal hospital for more information on this unique tracking device. Many pets have been reunited with their rightful owners because of this tiny implant. These chips can be scanned by veterinarians and other medical facilities for the information necessary to bring your pet back home to you.

Pack your favorite shampoos and drying towels.

Don’t forget flea and tic treatment. While these may not be necessary at home if your Chi is an indoor dog and using a litter box, when traveling they may need to go outdoors to relieve themselves.

Bandages are a good thing to have along in case they step on a small piece of glass or other sharp item at the many stops you will be making along the way.

Pack your Chi’s favorite sweater. Depending on where you live, where you’re traveling too, and when you are leaving, you may have a cool evening or two. Chihuahuas get cold very easily so have a coat or sweater just in case.

Bring a carrier or two. If you are traveling by plane you will want an airline approved carrier that can fit under the seat of the plane while in the air. When on the ground you may prefer a purse style carrier to keep your Chihuahua from being stepped on while shopping or in a crowd. These are available in various styles and sizes.

Okay, I know this seems like a lot of packing but it will be worth your while. Following are items you need to consider bringing with you when traveling with your pet:

Bandages and wound treatment

Bottled water

Carrier (airline and/or purse style)

Crate (if your Chi is used to being in one and you have room for it.)

Crate bedding material

Feeding dish and water dish

Fresh food and treats

Grooming needs (brush or wipe cloth)

Harness

Pet Blanket, bed or pillow

Sweater

Shampoo

Drying Towels

Medication (flea, tic, skin, other)

Toys

Veterinarian: regular phone no. and emergency phone no.

Veterinarian: medical records (history)

Veterinarian: list of ones along the route you are taking.

The bottom line is take precautions, prepare ahead of time, have a check list to be sure nothing is left behind by accident, and have a great vacation or trip with no mishaps along the way that can’t be handled quickly and easily.

A long trip is much more pleasant if you are properly prepared and if everyone is able to stretch frequently so don’t be in a hurry to reach your destination. Enjoy the trip from start to finish.

About The Author
Joanell is the founder of Weller Solutions, a company dedicated to pets, and a lover of Chihuahua dogs. For more information and products please visit aboutchihuahuadogs.com” target=”_new aboutchihuahuadogs.com
Visit Joanell’s Blog at: aboutchihuahuadogs.blogspot.com” target=”_new aboutchihuahuadogs.blogspot.com
This article may be freely reprinted without any changes made. The links to aboutchihuahuadogs.com and aboutchihuahuadogs.blogspot.com must be kept, as they are, in the article and must be clickable. A courtesy copy to mailto:weller752@cox.net weller752@cox.net would be appreciated.

Tags: chihuahua, groom

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Tags: chihuahua, groom

The need for pet tags is real and makes the production of pet tags a good business proposition. But where would a potential pet tag maker go for the equipment needed to start or enhance a business? The Hillman Group in Cincinnati manufactures and markets pet tag machines via the names PetScribe and Quick-Tag.

With Quick-Tag™, customized and engraved pet ID tags can be created at affordable rates in a very short time. The machine features a computerized engraver and video touch screen. The machine supports both credit card and cash payments to enable self service. Token payment is also possible, if required. Tags in different colors, shapes and sizes can be produced.

PetScribe™ can create engraved pet ID tags in less than sixty seconds. The machine allows engraving on both sides in two sizes (large and small). A number of tag styles including bone, large heart, bell, oval, rivet, small decorative, etc., can be used. Portable and fixed units of “model 40 B pet tag stamping press” of Your Supply Depot Ltd. are in the market.

FINDER Lost Pet Tag System™ uses patented communication technology. With the help of the next generation technology, someone who finds a lost pet can contact the owner using a toll-free number. The system can dial any of three stored phone numbers but the caller does not have access to these numbers. Users can change telephone numbers and messages as many times as required. The system is designed by Secure Connections in McLean, Virginia with the help of the American Humane Association.

The iMARC Pet Tag Engraver is designed for a variety of countertops. Different anodized aluminum tag styles including hydrant, rivet, heart, etc are provided for easy selection. The machine is equipped with three tag holders for different sizes. Engraving on both the sides, lower and upper case text, and logo options help in creating quality pet tags.

Pet ID tags are essential tools that help quickly find lost animals. A wide range of pet tags are available at affordable prices but even diamond pet tags are available for celebrity pets. From the working dog on a sheep farm to the tiny Chihuahua in a socialite’s arms, all pets should wear pet tags.

e-pet-tags.com Pet Tags Info provides detailed information about free and custom pet tags, pet ID tags, pet tag machines, and more. Pet Tags Info is the sister site of e-dogtags.com Dog Tags Web.

Tags: chihuahua

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Tags: chihuahua

For many people, the jury is still out on whether or not dog clothes are frivolous or useful. The fact remains, however, that they do have advantages for pooches. Dog clothing may appear to be an unnecessary luxury, but it does have advantage for dogs such as protection from cold and sunburn.

One major advantage is that dog clothes provide canines small and large with protection from the cold. During those long winter months, the bitter cold is just as uncomfortable and dangerous for dogs as it is for us. Dogs that have on a coat or a sweater feel much better outside and can stand to go for longer walks. This means no one has to sacrifice fresh air or exercise to hide from the weather. This is especially advantageous for small breeds as anyone with a shivering Chihuahua can attest.

Another advantage of dog clothes comes to light during the bright, warm summer days. The problem that many people don’t realize is that dogs are just as susceptible to sunburn as humans. Also, skin cancer is the most common cancer among dogs. Dog clothing such as shirts can help to protect from the sun’s harmful UV rays. It’s also a good idea to put sun block on any exposed skin. Don’t worry, it will absorb quickly into the skin before it gets licked.

For those who are still on the fence with dog clothes, it’s important to look at these facts. They do much more than make a dog look cute and draw attention. They have advantages that help our little friends live better lives.

Grant Carroll proud father of four dogs and co-owner of littlepamperedpets.com littlepamperedpets.com with littlepamperedpets.com Dog Clothes and Dog Coats.

Visit Elizabeth Austin for elizabethaustinwholesale.com Wholesale Dog Clothing and Wholesale Pet Products

Tags: chihuahua, dog clothes

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Tags: chihuahua, dog clothes

Where is the place on a dog where you can rub and it will curl up in ecstasy? The belly, of course! Dogs adored being rubbed on the tummies, and they can even be put to sleep that way. I have personally put my Chihuahuas to sleep by rubbing their bellies for ten minutes only!

When approached, most dogs will roll over and stick their paws up in a silent demand to be rubbed on the belly. Certain owners may see this as an act of submission and it should be fixed. However, this is not a submission issue. Overly submissive dogs who are stressed out may display this particular behavior, but a normal, healthy dog does the rollover just as often, especially when it is with the people it loves and trusts.

When your dog is willing to roll over for you to rub its tummy, such as when it is around you or members of the family, it shows that your dog trusts you 100%, as dogs don’t just flip onto the backs for mere strangers.

Here are some tips you can learn to understand your dog’s favourite treat and the next time you give it a belly rub, it may be a lot more enjoyable for it.

- The places where you can rub would be like places your dog cannot normally reach, like its chest, for example. Dogs normally cannot scratch or nip at their own chests, and if it gets rubbed they will respond affectionately. This is a way of exchanging gestures of respect and appreciation between you and your dog.

- Don’t leave the belly out, after all this is about belly rubs. A dog’s belly is usually furless. This shows that the area is more sensitive than other parts of the body. By rubbing this particular spot on his body will give it so much pleasure it can even fall asleep while you do it for a certain period of time.

- Exert a little pressure. You can choose to rub lightly which will result in a light tickling sensation to your dog, which will feel great, but using some pressure will be invigorating for your dog as well. Use your fingertips and add a little pressure as well while massaging his belly in a circular motion. Squeeze and massage the top of his legs, if possible, for that is pleasurable for your beloved dog as well. See below for more information on puppydogobedience.com/ Dog Obedience.

For more information on puppydogobedience.com/make-your-dog-roll-in-ecstasy-by-following-these-3-tummy-rubbing-tips/ How To Rub Your Dog’s Belly or visit puppydogobedience.com/make-your-dog-roll-in-ecstasy-by-following-these-3-tummy-rubbing-tips/ puppydogobedience.com/make-your-dog-roll-in-ecstasy-by-following-these-3-tummy-rubbing-tips/, a popular website that offers information on Dogs, Dog Training, and Dog Breeds. Please leave the links intact if you wish to reprint this article. Thanks

Tags: chihuahua, dog breed, dog breeds, dog training, healthy dog

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Tags: chihuahua, dog breed, dog breeds, dog training, healthy dog