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.

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

Let’s start out by saying that dogs do not “need” clothes. Most are born with their permanent wardrobe intact. You know, it’s that furry thing all over their bodies. Depending on the breed, they may even leave their clothes all over your house…it’s called shedding. But no matter what I say about dog clothes, there is still that group of dog owners out there who will still insist on spending more on their dog’s wardrobe than their own. So if you insist on doing this, at least be fair to your friend.

If you are the proud owner of a championship Rottweiler or a well-trained German Shepard, don’t dress them up in little dresses and bright pink tutus. That’s more embarrassing for you than it is for them (and it is embarrassing for them…just look at their faces). And if you own those little purse dogs, you know the ones I mean, don’t dress them up in spiked collars and full blown leather. That’s a powerful image to live up to. But that advice won’t be listened to either. So if you are going to dress Fido or Princess up in the latest fashions, be sensible.

First and foremost, make sure the clothes fit. Make sure there’s plenty of room across the shoulders. Make sure the straps that go under the front legs leave plenty of room so the dog has full range of motion. If the clothes don’t fit, you’re just going to make your dog more irritated than he already is. Also, listen to your dog. If you just have to put that “cute sweater” on Fido and he is constantly fighting you on it, he’s trying to tell you something. Listen to him.

Now for those of you who still insist on dressing up your dogs in clothes, don’t worry, the pet industry was listening. Dog clothes are a billion dollar a year business and you can dress your pampered pooch up in the latest fashions from Paris all the way into the Walmart special. There are costumes for Halloween. There are tuxedos and prom dresses for the pooches who just have to look their best. There are workout clothes for the fitness gurus living in your doghouse. And there are casual clothes for the fashion impaired who prefer comfort over style.

There are also a wide variety of shoes you can purchase for your new best friend. But if you want him to remain your best friend for very long, I wouldn’t make him wear them that often. Have you ever seen a dog walking with shoes on? They look like they are walking across hot pavement. There’s a reason for this…THEY DON’T LIKE THEM!

So as you can see, I personally am not a big fan of clothes for dogs. But I am obviously wrong. Pet clothes manufacturers have built entire empires on the product and dog clothes are one of the few items pet stores have a hard time keeping in stock. And there are plenty of choices out there for the fashonista pooch. But pay attention to the styles. After all, there’s nothing more embarrassing for your lovable mutt than being seen in last year’s fashion line. Except maybe of course being seen in clothes at all.

Allen Shaw is a successful author who provides information on dogs-n-u.com/ dogs, dogs-n-u.com/dog-clothes.htm dog clothes and dogs-n-u.com/dog-coats.htm dog coats.

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Tags: dog clothes, fido, rottweiler

Dog collars are one of the few indulgences for a dog lover. Though dog collars are an absolute necessity, they can also be a fashionable extravagance. Dog collars make the dog stand out in the crowd. A unique dog collar can really draw attention to the dog and the owner.

Today, there are many different kinds of dog collars available. They range from simple and practical leather collars to fancy, personalized collars for that unique look. There are many companies that are designing unique collars for all kinds of dogs. These include nylon collars, cotton collars, metallic collars, leather collars, handmade collars, woven collars, foam collars, gold, silver or platinum collars, beaded collars, stone-studded collars and so on. Based on the purpose, dog collars can be categorized as adjustable collars, washable collars, training collars, no-bark collars, reflective collars, electric collars, waterproof collars, talking collars and others.

Some common designs include plaid, polka dots, python prints, crocodile prints, animal prints, tuxedo style, denim, bandana, mink, bone, bow collar, slide collars, metallic collection, beaded, velvet, and those with unique designs such as MLB, NLF, New York Yankees, Boston Red Sox, Eagles and so on.

Dog collars have to be very comfortable. The right size of the dog’s neck has to be carefully measured using a tape. Placing two fingers between the neck and the tape would show the most comfortable length. The tape should also be kept loosely around the neck. The collar is likely to rest a few inches below the head, but it is better to add a couple of inches to the measurement. If the length is between two sizes, choose the bigger collar.

Go for a bigger collar if the dog is still growing. The different collar sizes available are: toy (8-10″”), small (10-14″”), small plus (14-16″”), medium (16-18″”), large (20-22″”) and extra large (22-24″”). The width of the collar is generally ½”" or 1″”. 10-14″” collars are for beagles, Jack Russells, and shelties, which have smaller necks. Labs, Australian shepherds, Dalmatians, pointers and spaniels have neck sizes ranging from 14 to 20 inches, while rottweilers, Great Danes, and chow chows have neck lengths between 18 and 28 inches.

Dog collars also differ on the basis of the buckle used. Some collars have snap-together buckles, which are very convenient, but they are not ideal for big and powerful dogs, as they are not very strong. Some buckles also have special safety features to prevent collar-related accidents. These days, there are also GPS-enabled dog collars available to make dog tracking easier.

Prices of dog collars start from $5 or $6 and can go up to $100 depending on the kind of collar and the material used. They are also available in wholesale quantities, in sets of 12 or 24 collars or more.

e-dogcollars.com Dog Collars provides detailed information on Dog Collars, Personalized Dog Collars, Small Dog Collars, Fancy Dog Collars and more. Dog Collars is affiliated with e-DogClothes.com Designer Dog Clothes.

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Tags: dog clothes, dog collars, dot, rottweiler

Canine hip dysphasia (CHD) is a genetic disease that affects the hip bones in dogs. While pretty much any dog can get it, some dogs are predisposed to this condition and it is more common in larger breed dogs due to the greater weight on the joints of the hip. some breeds at risk for this disease include Dalmations, German Shepherds, Rottweilers, Golden Retrievers and Blood Hounds.

This disease affects the hips way ahead of the thighbone does not fit into the hip socket as it should. Wear of the cartilage and damage to the joint occurs causing swelling and pain. Canine hip dysphasia itself is not arthritis but it is the most common cause of hip arthritis.

This is a disease that is inherited from the dog’s parents. Therefore the only way to eradicate the disease is through good breeding practices and not letting dogs with CHD have puppies. this presents a challenge though is not all dogs show that they have this disease and in fact, dogs that show no sign of it may still possess the gene that passes it to their offspring.

Symptoms of canine hip dysplasia present themselves as your dog not being able to get up is easy. Perhaps he’s not as energetic or doesn’t want to run as much and has a hard time standing up after sitting or lying down for awhile. His back legs may look lame and when he runs he might use them both like a rabbit. CHD might cause your dog to be reluctant to go upstairs. And most dogs the symptoms don’t show up until middle age but some may show the disease when they are puppies.

There and no test to tell if a dog carries the gene for CHD but the presence of hip dysplasia can be tested through x-rays and physical exams. An x-ray can let you know how bad the condition has become and using future x-rays to monitor it will let you know If the treatment path you have chosen is working. there are actually two types of x-rays that are performed one gives you an idea of how severe arthritis says in the joint and the other will tell you how loose the hip joint itself is.

Canine hip dysphasia can be treated with surgical and nonsurgical methods. Nonsurgical methods include drugs to help relieve the pain and inflammation of the hip joint. These drugs, Rimadyl, Deramaxx and Ectogesic can be very effectivee and have helped many dogs live happy normal lives. In addition making sure your dog gets good exercise and physical therapy to work the hips and keeping your dog at a slim weight can help relieve symptoms.

Surgical treatments for CHD can also be effective. There are two methods of treatment for canine hip dysplasia one which treats hips which Re: show a lot of arthritis and another which tries to help prevent the progresssion of the arthritis.

One of the procedures- triple pelvic astronomy - is most effective before the joint becomes damaged with arthritis. This involves cuttingg the pelvis and then rotating hip sockets to get them to work better. One new type of surgery, pubic symphysiodesis, is still being studied but hopeful to be effective for very young dogs with canine hip dysphasia.

In some dogs a full hip replacement might be the way to go. This involves replacing both the ball in the socket to allow the dog to enjoy a full life with normal activity. This procedure is used mostly in larger dogs they can be very effective.

Another procedure which is called a femoral head ostectomy removes the top portion of the femur in order to stop a painful grinding at the hip joint. the femur then floats freely forming scar tissue which then acts as the joint. This procedure is recommended for smaller well muscled dogs.

Canine hip dysplasia is not easy to prevent and it’s hard to tell if your dog will become a victim of this. Your best bet is to make sure you buy from a reputable breeder and be sure that the parents of your dog are free from CHD. Make sure that puppies do not have undue stress placed on their hips and that your dog does not gain too much weight and these things can help delay the onset of his disease should your dog be prone to it.

Lee Dobbins writes for dogbreeds123.com dogbreeds123.com where you can learn more about

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Tags: rottweiler

The Rottweiler is a very special dog breed who has many incredible characteristics and personality traits. However these very same wonderful characteristics are what can get you into some decent trouble down the road if you don’t undergo proper Rottweiler training. Before you start training you’re Rottweiler, you have to understand their specific traits and personality, so that you can properly stimulate them.

- The Rottweiler is a very loyal dog that needs to always be close to their family. Like most German breeds, they seem to become closer to one particular member within the family more then others. The individual who becomes closest (the “master”) to their Rottweiler should be the one that is engaged in training most heavily.

- Because the Rottweiler is so loyal and family oriented, it is always very eager to please its owner/s. This makes Rottweiler training far easier then many other breeds, and the owner can take advantage of this trait and increase the success rate of the training.

- The Rottweiler is a breed that can be very aggressive and dominate if it does not undergo proper Rottweiler training. Rottweiler’s by nature are dominate dogs and need to be put in place (never by force) by a dominate and assertive owner. This breed is not recommended for timid individuals.

- The Rottweiler is very protective of its family and home, and it’s because of this trait that if not trained properly it can become far too protective, aggressive and wary of any people other then family in its home or even on walks. It is very important that this breed be properly socialized at a young age and it taken out into public settings often. It should also be mentioned that if you don’t usually have guests in your home and socialize your Rottweiler among them, they may be okay with outside the home, but within it.

Like any other breed of dog the Rottweiler needs to undergo specific Rottweiler training to ensure that it grows up to be a great family pet and well mannered dog. Too often throughout my career as a trainer and breeder have I seen many people try to train their Rottweiler’s like their Labs, and of course pay the price in the long run. Make sure that you are armed with the proper knowledge and resources to make sure that this doesn’t happen to you during you’re Rottweiler training.

It’s hard enough trying to find the needed information for Rottweiler training; it’s even harder finding information that is specific for this breed. Don’t waste you’re time and energy looking in the wrong places…you’re Rottweiler is just sitting there wagging its tail and waiting squidoo.com/rottweilertraining/ squidoo.com/rottweilertraining/

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Tags: dog breed, rottweiler