Dogs

Canine, (Canis lupus familiaris), homegrown vertebrate of the own family Canidae (request Carnivora). It is a subspecies of the darkish wolf (Canis lupus) and is recognized with foxes and jackals. The dog is one of the two commonly typical and maximum well-known homegrown creatures on this planet (the tom cat is the opposite). For over 12,000 years it has lived with people as a looking pal, defender, item of contempt or worship, and accomplice. 

The canine developed from the dark wolf into in excess of 400 unmistakable sorts. Individuals play had a full-size affect in making dogs that satisfy specific cultural requirements. Through the most easy sort of hereditary designing, canines had been reared to emphasize impulses that were apparent from their soonest reports with people. In spite of the reality that insights regarding the development of dogs are dubious, the number one canine had been trackers with sharp feelings of sight and scent. People fostered these senses and made new varieties as need or want emerged. 

Canines are reputable diversely in numerous pieces of the world. Attributes of faithfulness, companionship, defense, and love have received dogs a giant situation in Western way of life, and inside the United States and Europe the attention and looking after canines has was a multibillion-greenback commercial enterprise. Western civilization has given the relationship among human and canine wonderful importance, be that as it is able to, in a portion of the agricultural international locations and in severa spaces of Asia, dogs aren't held in a similar regard. In positive areas of the sector, dogs are utilized as gatekeepers or % animals or in any occasion, for meals, even though in the United States and Europe dogs are ensured and appreciated. In antiquated Egypt for the duration of the instances of the pharaohs, dogs were considered as holy.

Origins and history of the dogs History Paleontologists and archaeologists have established that about 60 million years ago a small mammal, alternating like a weasel, lived near what is now Asia, known as Miacis, the genus that is known in the ancestors of what is today Canids recognized animals: dogs, jackals, wolves and foxes. Miacis left no direct offspring, but dog-like canids evolved from it. About 30 to 40 million years ago, Miacis had become the actual primary dog: more precisely, Cynodictis, was a medium-length animal, longer than it was tall, with a long tail and rather bushy fur. Over the millennia, Cynodictis has raised two branches, one in Africa and the other in Eurasia. known as Tomarctus and is the progenitor of wolves, cubs and foxes.

Genetic evidence shows that puppies descended at once from wolves (Canis) and that the now-extinct wolf lineages that produced dogs branched off from the line that produced modern-day residing wolves someday between 27,000 and 40,000 years in the past. The timing and area of dog domestication is a matter of discussion. There is strong genetic evidence, however, that the first domestication activities took place somewhere in northern Eurasia among 14,000 and 29,000 years ago. In this location wolves probable facilitated their personal domestication by trailing nomadic humans in northern Eurasia and ingesting the stays of recreation animals that hunters left behind.

Most studies agree that domestication became no longer a unmarried discrete occasion. It became a technique that unfolded over hundreds of years—possibly related to canine populations that regarded in extraordinary elements of Eurasia at special times, with puppies and wild wolves continuing to interbreed with each other and with early canine populations being replaced by means of later ones. Some genetic studies have documented evidence of early domestication activities in precise regions. One study contends that wolves were domesticated sixteen,three hundred years in the past to serve as cattle in China, whereas any other reports that early puppies relationship from approximately 12,000 to 14,000 years in the past got here from a small stress of grey wolf that inhabited India. Genetic proof additionally well-knownshows that dogs did not accompany the first human beings to the New World more than 15,000 years ago, suggesting alternatively that puppies got here to the Americas just a few 10,000 years in the past. One take a look at even counseled that a few dogs have descended no longer from the wolf but instead from the jackal. These puppies, determined in Africa, might have given upward push to a number of the present local African breeds.

No matter what their origins, all canids have positive not unusual traits. They are mammals that endure stay young. The females have mammary glands, and they suckle their offspring. The early breeds had erect ears and pointed or wedge-fashioned muzzles, similar to the northern breeds commonplace these days. Most of the carnivores have comparable dental structures, that is one manner paleontologists have been able to pick out them. They broaden  sets of teeth, deciduous (“toddler”) enamel and permanent tooth.

Canids walk on their toes, in assessment to an animal just like the endure, which is flat-footed and walks on its heels. Dogs, like most mammals, have body hair and are homeothermic—that is to mention, they have an internal thermostat that allows them to hold their body temperature at a consistent stage no matter the outside temperature.

Fossil remains propose that 5 awesome varieties of puppies existed with the aid of the beginning of the Bronze Age (about 4500 BCE). They have been the mastiffs, wolf-kind dogs, sight hounds (which includes the Saluki or greyhound), pointing dogs, and herding puppies.

Role in human societies

Dogs have performed an important position inside the records of human civilization and have been many of the first domesticated animals. They were essential in hunter-gatherer societies as hunting allies and bodyguards against predators. When farm animals have been domesticated about 7,000 to 9,000 years ago, dogs served as herders and guardians of sheep, goats, and cattle. Although many still serve in those capacities, dogs are in particular used for social purposes and companionship. Today dogs are employed as courses for the blind and disabled or for police paintings. Dogs are even utilized in remedy in nursing houses and hospitals to encourage patients towards recovery. Humans have bred a extensive range of different puppies tailored to serve a ramification of functions. This has been more desirable by means of improvements in veterinary care and animal husbandry.

In historic Egypt puppies have been concept to own godlike traits. They had been pampered by means of their own servants, geared up with jeweled collars, and fed the most appropriate eating regimen. Only royalty became accepted to very own purebred puppies, and upon the dying of a ruler his favored dog was frequently interred with him to defend him from harm within the afterlife.

Illustrations of puppies dating from the Bronze Age had been observed on walls, tombs, and scrolls during Europe, the Middle East, and North America. Often the dogs are depicted hunting recreation with their human counterparts. Statues of dogs protect the entrances to burial crypts. In many cases those puppies truly resemble present day canines. Such relics are indelible testimony to the significance that human beings have given to the dog at some stage in the a long time.

The Origin of Races When it became clear that dogs are faster, stronger, and can see and hear better than humans, specimens exhibiting these qualities were bred to enhance these qualities. Like the mastiffs, they were designed to protect homes and tourists from damage.

As society modified and agriculture—in addition to hunting—became a way of sustaining life, different breeds of dogs were developed. swarming and guarding dogs were necessary to farmers for shielding their flocks. At an equivalent time, little breeds became fascinating as playthings and companions for noble families. The Pekingese in China and fragile breeds reminiscent of the Chihuahua were bred to be lapdogs. The hunting dog breeds were developed, in the main in England, to disembarrass granaries and barns of rodents. inform and retrieving breeds were selected  for special tasks relating to aiding gaseous nebula to search out and capture game. several breeds are very ancient, whereas others are developed as recently because the 1800s.

Dogs have bigger brains than cats and why

Over millions of years dogs have developed bigger brains than cats because highly social species of mammals need more brain power than solitary animals, according to a study by Oxford University.
For the first time researchers have attempted to chart the evolutionary history of the brain across different groups of mammals over 60 million years. They have discovered that there are huge variations in how the brains of different groups of mammals have evolved over that time. They also suggest that there is a link between the sociality of mammals and the size of their brains relative to body size, according to a study published in the PNAS journal.

The research team analysed available data on the brain size and body size of more than 500 species of living and fossilised mammals. It found that the brains of monkeys grew the most over time, followed by horses, dolphins, camels and dogs. The study shows that groups of mammals with relatively bigger brains tend to live in stable social groups. The brains of more solitary mammals, such as cats, deer and rhino, grew much more slowly during the same period.

Previous research which has looked at why certain groups of living mammals have bigger brains has relied on studies of distantly-related living mammals. It was widely believed that the growth rate of the brain relative to body size followed a general trend across all groups of mammals. However, this study by Dr Susanne Shultz and Professor Robin Dunbar, from Oxford University’s Institute of Cognitive and Evolutionary Anthropology (ICEA), overturns this view. They find that there is wide variation in patterns of brain growth across different groups of mammals and they have discovered that not all mammal groups have larger brains, suggesting that social animals needed to think more.

Lead author Dr Susanne Shultz, a Royal Society Dorothy Hodgkin Fellow at ICEA, said: ‘This study overturns the long-held belief that brain size has increased across all mammals. Instead, groups of highly social species have undergone much more rapid increases than more solitary species. This suggests that the cooperation and coordination needed for group living can be challenging and over time some mammals have evolved larger brains to be able to cope with the demands of socialising.’

Co-author and Director of ICEA Professor Robin Dunbar said: ‘For the first time, it has been possible to provide a genuine evolutionary time depth to the study of brain evolution. It is interesting to see that even animals that have contact with humans, like cats, have much smaller brains than dogs and horses because of their lack of sociality.’

The research team used available data of the measurements of brain size and body size of each group of living mammals and compared them with similar data for the fossilised remains of mammals of the same lineage. They examined the growth rates of the brain size relative to body size to see if there were any changes in the proportions over time. The growth rates of each mammal group were compared with other mammal groups to see what patterns emerged.

Dog Care Summary

DOG Feeding Information

Provide your dog with dog foods that are high in nutritional value, with 80% of the dogs diet daily diet coming from dry dog food. A quality dry dog food should contain varied ingredients with sufficient amounts of fats, carbohydrates, and proteins (amino acids). Table foods can cause gastrointestinal distress and load the dog’s food with unnecessary fats and sugars. Always consult with a veterinarian about the best dog food for your dog and about any supplements that may be necessary.

Dry Dog Food

A quality dry dog food should contain approximately 10% water and contain a mixture of soy, meat products, grains, vegetables, animal fats, and added vitamins and minerals. These types of dry dog foods are coated with a meat flavoring to encourage consumption. Smell and taste the animal fat on the food and will eat until they are satisfied. In addition to nutritional value, dry dog foods provide a rough texture to help clean the dog’s teeth and gums.

Unless specified as a dietary precaution by the dog’s veterinarian, the dog’s food bowl should be kept full at all times to encourage healthy eating.

Canned Dog Food

Canned dog food is generally not recommended as a regular dietary item. Although dogs will prefer the taste of canned foods, canned dog food is mostly water (nearly 80%) and does not help promote good health for the dog’s teeth and gums. Care should be taken that dogs do not over eat when fed canned food.

Semi-Moist foods

These types of dog foods are created to look and smell like meat, but are generally made of soy, cereal grains and meat by products – they are also heavy in preservatives. These foods contain 25 – 30% water and are high in proteins. While not recommended as the primary source of nutrition in a diet, semi-moist foods are a great supplement to a diet and are a great reward for dogs.

DOG Grooming

Taking a dog regularly to a professional groomer can be very expensive. While an occasional trip to a professional groomer may be necessary, simple care and grooming can be done at home.

If you plan on grooming your dog regularly at home, it’s important to start early when they are puppies. Puppies that get used to being handled during grooming, will grow up to be much more well adjusted dogs during the grooming process. Although puppies require a lot of patience, the learning will pay huge dividends throughout your dog’s life.

Dogs should be taught to sit or stand as still as possible during grooming.

Caring for your dog’s coat

Your dog’s coat should be brushed daily – frequent and regular brushing will help to remove loose fur and loosen pet dander. The fur should always be brushed in the direction of the fur.

Dogs should be shampooed with a shampoo that is meant for dogs. To give your dog a bath, place him in a tub of warm water and use a cup or hand held shower head to wet him. Rub the shampoo in evenly over the entire dog, paying particular attention to the legs, underbelly and paws. If you are concerned about getting shampoo in the dog’s eyes, you can always use baby shampoo on the dog’s head. Be sure to rinse thoroughly.

After taking your dog out of the tub, towel dry the fur and use a brush to smooth out the fur and prevent knotting.

Trimming your dog's nails

To trim your dog’s nails, purchase a set of nail clippers that are meant for dogs at your local pet store. Scissors generally do not work well, and can cause unneeded discomfort for your dog during clipping.

Begin by holding your dog's paw in one hand, and the clippers in the other. Place the clippers over the nail and clip only the tip of the nail. Be careful not to clip too close, as cutting off too much will damage and expose the vein. As the vein can be difficult to see, begin by clipping off a bit at a time. If the vein does accidentally get cut, apply pressure to the wound with a clean gauze pad until the bleeding stops.

Cleaning your dog's teeth

When brushing your dog’s teeth, do NOT use regular toothpaste as it isn’t safe for dogs to swallow. Use a medium to heavy bristle toothbrush or a rubber “finger brush” to gently rub on your dog’s gums and teeth.

To open your dog’s mouth, hold its mouth open by lifting the loose skin at the sides of his mouth. The teeth should be brushed in the direction that they grow. Choose a special doggie toothpaste that comes in a flavor dogs prefer.

A dog’s teeth can also be cleaned by providing it with a dog biscuit that is designed for keeping tartar off your dog's teeth.

Dogs teeth should be checked and cleaned during it’s annual visit to the veterinarian.

Cleaning your dog's ears

To clean your dog’s ears, lightly dampen the end of a cotton tip swab. Do not stick the swab directly into the ear, as you may inadvertently damage the dog’s ear drum. Use the damp swab to gently clean the exterior areas of its ears. Mineral oil should never be used to clean dogs ears – the oils tend to remain in the ear causing hearing problems.

Frequent ear scratching generally means ear mites. Dog’s ears should be checked annually during their regular visit to the veterinarian.

If you encounter difficulties in grooming your dog, take him to a professional groomer and watch to see how it is done. The dog groomer can also give you advice and more tips on how to deal specifically with your dog.

DOG Housing

When choosing a location for a dog’s bed or living space, it’s important to remember that dogs are creatures of habit –where you start out your puppy is probably where your grown up dog will end up sleeping. If the dog will be an indoor dog, choose an out of the way location that is cool and well ventilated. Puppies that are allowed to sleep in the owner’s bed will grow into large unwelcomed sleeping partners later in life.

Outdoor dogs should be sheltered in a dog house that will prevent wind and rain from getting inside. The house should be big enough to allow the dog to enter completely, and turn in a full circle before lying down. During the winter months, a heavy cloth should be hung over the door to keep in heat and prevent wind and moisture from entering. Dogs prefer loose bedding, generally a couple of warm blankets work best. Make sure to clean the dog house regularly to keep the dog healthy and comfortable.

DOG Exercising

The amount of exercise required by dogs varies from dog to dog – smaller dogs get plenty of exercise just playing with a ball in the family room, while larger dogs need room to run and stretch their legs. But regardless of how much exercise a dog needs, it’s important that they a get regular, daily opportunity to run. Just like humans, dogs need plenty of water and intermittent rest during exercise, especially on hot days.

Sometimes the best exercise for dogs is to allow them to play with other dogs in the neighborhood. As outdoor dogs get more exercise just doing their normal routine, indoor dogs can be encouraged to exercise by providing them with toys.

Puppies should begin training at approximately 10 weeks of age
Dogs need plenty of daily exercise – three times a day is recommended
Dogs should be checked frequently for ticks, fleas and other parasites
Dogs should be bathed with dog shampoo and not human shampoo (baby shampoo ok for washing the head)
Dog ears should be cleaned weekly
Dog teeth should be brushed at least twice a week – dog biscuits between brushing will help keep teeth clean and breath fresh.
Dry dog food is recommended, supplemented with a high quality vitamin
Dogs should take a heartworm pill once a month
Dogs should visit their veterinarian once a year for an exam and regular vaccines

Dogs

General Information

The origin of the canine can be traced back with some certainty to the Eocene Miacids that existed nearly 55 million years ago. The modern day dog evolved from the Canoidea line (a coyote type of dog) that existed around 38 million years ago, which again evolved into a fox-like animal (the Leptocyon) and then into a wolf-like animal (the Tomarctus) about 10 million years ago. The Tomarctus was apparently native to the North American continent, and from there began expanding throughout the various parts of the world. The dog like Tomarctus was a dog-like carnivore that eventually evolved into the modern day dog.

Modern day evidence suggests that the dog is the closest relative to the wolf  experts have deduced this information based on genetics and behavior patterns.

These wolf like animals became domesticated as humans began raising the wolf pups as tame and social animals. Humans probably interacted more with these animals because of the shared interest in the same types of prey and habitats. Eventually these pups became dependent on the humans for food and adapted to living with humans. The modern day domestic dog (Canis lupus familiaris) is a descendent of these early wolf-pup domestications beginning around 10,000 BC.

DOG Scientific Information

Kingdom: Animalia
Phylum: Chordata
Subphylum: Vertebrata
Class: Mammalia
Order: Carnivora
Family: Canidae
Genus: Canis
Species: C. lupus
Subspecies: C.l. familiaris

DOG Character Information

The dog has long been considered as Mans best friend. When dogs are properly cared for from the time they are puppies, they will grow to live a good healthy life. Proper care and attention will earn you undying loyalty from your canine friend.

Dogs are primarily different from other household pets for two main reasons: social attachment to humans, and physical temperament

Dogs are social creatures they bond they form with humans is uncommon to other domesticated animals . Their friendly and protective natures make them ideal companions to humans.

Dogs are varied in their temperaments and have been bred to enhance specific characteristics. Because of their varied physical sizes and temperaments, it is very common for a pet owner to find a type dog that meets their emotional needs  there is pretty much a dog for any type of personality out there.

USA Standard German Shepherd Dog

USA GERMAN SHEPHERD DOG STANDARD

Introduction

The United Schutzhund Clubs of America Inc. is a German Shepherd Dog Breed Organization guided by the rules of the organization of origin of the German Shepherd Dog, the "Verein für Deutsche Schäferhunde (SV)" in Germany and is strongly devoted to create and promote the German Shepherd Dog in its original breeding as a working dog. The United Schutzhund Clubs of America Inc. is a member of the "World Union of German Shepherd Dog Clubs" and accepts the bylaws of this organization in regards to the breeding rules of German Shepherd Dogs.

The following translation of the German Shepherd Dog F.C.I. Standard, MO. 166/23.03.1991/D translated from the SV publication 1998 has been submitted by Johannes Grewe and is recommended by the 1998 Breed Advisory Committee for approval by the Executive Board at their meeting in 1998.

The "Standard" is part of the USA Bylaws.

The following "Standard" has been approved by the Executive Board at the meeting inBangor, Maine, on May 6, 1998.

GERMAN SHEPHERD

F.C.I.-Standard-Mo. 166/23.03.1991/D
Edition 1993

Short Historical Overview

In accordance with the official provisions of the German Shepherd Dog Club (SV) e.V., located in Augsburg, a member of the Federation of Dog Clubs in Germany (VDH) is the founding organization of the German Shepherd Dog and therefore, responsible for the breed standard. Work on this document was begun at the first membership meeting in Frankfurt/M on September 20, 1899 and is based on proposals by A. Meyer and v. Stephanitz. Additions and revisions to the standard were made as follows: membership meeting on July 28, 1901; 23rd membership meeting on September 17, 1909 in Koln; Board and Executive Committee Meeting on September 5, 1930 in Wiesbaden, and the Breeders Committee and Board Meeting on March 25, 1961 in conjunction with the WUSV (World Union of German Shepherd Clubs) and during the WUSV Meeting on August 30, 1976 where the standard was agreed upon, revised, and approved by the Board and Executive Committee on March 23 and 24, 1991.

Planned breeding activities began after the inception of the SV in 1899. The German Shepherd Dog was developed from herding dogs in service during that time in Middle and Southern Germany. The goal was to produce a high-performance working dog. To accomplish this goal, the Breed Standard of the German Shepherd Dog was created. This document addresses both physical qualities as well as character attributes.

General Appearance

The German Shepherd Dog is medium sized, slightly longer than tall, strong and well muscled, bone is dry, the whole dog presenting a picture of firmness.

Important Measurements

Height at the withers for males: 60 - 65 cm, bitches: 55 - 60 cm. Length of torso exceeds height at the withers by 10 - 17%.

Character

The German Shepherd should appear poised, calm, self confident, absolutely at ease, and (except when agitated) good natured, but also attentive and willing to serve. He must have courage, fighting drive, and hardness in order to serve as companion, watchdog, protection dog, service dog, and herding dog.

Head

The head is wedge-shaped and in harmony with the dog^’s size (length app. 40% of height at the withers) without being coarse or overly long. The head should appear dry, and moderately wide between the ears. Seen from the front and side, the forehead is only slightly domed, the center furrow is either absent or only slightly visible. The length ratio of skull to face is 50 : 50%. Skull width approximately equals skull length. Seen from above, the skull slopes into a wedge-shaped muzzle. The stop should not be pronounced. Upper and lower jaws are strong, the bridge of the nose should be straight, not a Roman nose or dish-faced nose. Lips are taut, well closed and of dark color.

The Nose

The nose should be black.

Teeth

The teeth must be strong and complete in number (42 teeth as per formula). The German Shepherd has a scissor bite, where the upper incisors must meet the lower incisors in a scissor grip. Level bite, overshot and undershot teeth are faulty, as well as widely spaced teeth. A straight incisor tooth line is also faulty. Jawbones must be well developed, to permit deep rooting of the teeth in the gum.

The Eyes

The eyes are medium sized, almond-shaped, set slightly oblique and not protruding. The color should be as dark as possible

.

Ears

The German Shepherd has medium-sized, upright ears which are carried erect and perpendicular to one another, pointed and open to the front. Tipped ears and hanging ears are faulty. Laid-back ears are not faulty when the dog is in motion or resting.

Neck

The neck is strong, well-muscled, and clean cut (without folds of loose skin). The angle of neck to torso is approximately 45 degrees.

Body

The top line extends from the point where the neck meets the skull past the well developed withers and the gently downward sloping back to the slightly sloping croup without a visible break. The back is firm, strong, and well muscled. The loin is broad, well developed, and strongly muscled. The croup should be long and have a slight downward slope (approximately 23 degrees from horizontal) and should merge smoothly into the tail set.

Chest

The chest should be of moderate width, the underchest long and pronounced. Chest depth should be approximately 45 to 48% of height at the withers. The ribs should be moderately sprung. Barrel shaped or flat ribs are faulty.

Tail

The tail reaches at least to the hock joint, but not past the halfway point of the hock itself. The coat is slightly longer on the underside of the tail. The tail hangs in a soft, saber-like curve. When the dog is excited or in motion, the tail is somewhat raised, but should not reach past the horizontal line. Surgical corrections are not permitted.

Limbs Forelegs

Seen from all sides, the forelegs are straight and absolutely parallel when viewed from the front.

Shoulder and upper arms are of equal length. Both are held snugly to the body by strong muscles. Angulation of shoulder blade to the upper arm ideally is 90 degrees, but up to 110 degrees is permissible.

Elbows may not turn out when the dog is standing or in motion or be pinched inward. The lower legs viewed from all sides are straight and absolutely parallel, dry, and well muscled. The pastern measures about 1/3 of the forearm length and is angled 20-22 degrees to the foreleg. Pasterns with an angle of more than 22 degrees or very steep pasterns (less than 20 degrees) reduce working capability especially, endurance.

Paws

The paws are rounded, tight, and arched. The soles are hard, but not brittle. The nails are strong and dark.

Hind Legs

The rear legs have a pronounced rounded knee or turn of stifle which projects the dog's rear quarter well behind the point of the pelvis. Seen from the rear, the hind legs are parallel to one another. Upper and lower thighs are of approximately the same length and form an angle of 120 degrees. Thighs are strong and well muscled.

The hock joint is strong and dry and the hock stands upright under the joint.

Paws

The paws are tight, slightly arched, the balls of the feet are hard and dark, nails strong, arched, and dark.

Gait

The German Shepherd is a trotting dog. Length and angulation of front and rear legs must be in proper proportion to one another to permit the dog to move the rear leg underneath the body, matching the reach of the rear legs with that of the front legs and at the same time, keeping the topline over the back relatively undisturbed. Any tendency for over-angulation of the rear reduces firmness and endurance of the dog and therefore, working capability. Correct body proportions and angulation result in a ground-covering gait which moves close to the ground and conveys the impression of effortless movement. With the head held slightly forward and the tail slightly lifted, the dog trotting evenly and smoothly, we see a softly moving topline which flows without interruption from neck to tail tip.

Skin

The skin covers the body loosely, but without folds.

Coat Characteristics

The correct coat for the German Shepherd is a stock coat (outer and under coat). The top coat should be as tight as possible, straight, coarse, and clinging closely to the undercoat. The head, including the inside of the ears, the front of the legs, the paws, and toes have short hair. Neck hair is longer and thicker. On the rear side of the legs, hair length increases downward to the pastern and hock. The rear of the thighs is covered show moderate "pants".

Pigment

Black with reddish brown, brown, tan to light-grey markings. Solid black, grey with darker overcast, black saddle and mask. Inconspicuous small white chest markings, as well as lighter pigment on the inside of the legs is permitted, but not desirable. All dogs, no matter what their color, must have black noses.

Missing mask, light to white markings on the chest and inner leg sides, light toenails, and a red tail tip are signs of faulty pigmentation. Undercoat has a slight grey cast. White is not permissible.

Size/Weight

Males: Height at the wither 60 cm to 65 cm
Weight 30 kg to 40 kg.

Females: Height at the wither 55 cm to 60 cm
Weight 22 kg - 32 kg

Testicles

Visual inspection must show two normally developed testicles fully descended into the scrotum.

Faults

Any deviations from the above listed points are considered faults. Points deducted must be in accordance with severity of the deviation.

Severe Faults

Deviations from the breed characteristics described above which compromise the working ability of the animal.

Ear Faults: ears set too low, tipped ears, overset ears, and soft ears.

Considerable lack of pigment.

Firmness strongly compromised.

Faults of Dentition:

All deviation from scissor bite and number of teeth, unless they are disqualifying faults.

Disqualifying Faults

a) Character weakness, nervous biters, and dogs with a weak nervous system;

b) Dogs with documented "severe hip dysplasia";

c) Monorchids and cryptorchids as well as dogs with testicles of visibly uneven size or shrunken testicles;

d) Dogs with disfiguring ears and/or tails;

e) Malformed dogs;

f) Tooth faults as follows:

1. Missing 1 #3 premolar and one additional tooth;

2. Missing 1 canine tooth or

3. Missing 1 #4 premolar, or

4. Missing 1 molar #1 or #2 or

5. Missing a total number of 3 teeth and/or more;

g) Dogs with bite faults: overbite of 2 mm or more, or undershot; level bite;

h) Dogs that measure more than 1 cm over or under regulation size;

i) Albinism;

j) White coat (incl. those with dark eyes and nails);

k) Long stock coat (long, soft loosely fitting outer coat with undercoat, flags on ears and legs, bushy pants and bushy tail with flag on underside);

l) Long coat (long, soft outer coat without undercoat). This coat type frequently is parted along the center line of the back, has flags on ears, legs, and tail.

SEE MORE : Dogs | German Shepherd Dog (Alsatian Wolf)

Increase the Life of Your English Bull Dog

A dog is a man’s best friend. If you have a dog at home, then you feel needed and loved. Commonly, dogs have a lifespan that is of nearly 8 years. English Bull dogs are not the longest lived, but they aren’t either the shortest lived.

The lifespan of bull dogs may increase to 10-12 years, rather more. This is very much possible provided you pay proper attention and look after them well. They need extra care, because of the sensitive health that they keep.

Reading further may help to update you with the varieties and the life span of dogs. There will be some tips mentioned too for how to look after your #dogs.

Some facts

There was a time when in Great Britain, bull dogs were used for bull baiting. They were bred in a way that made them resistant to pain and to be ferocious. After a while, a time came when bull baiting got banned. This banning led people to love them. They were looked after in a way that made even the non smiling faces to smile.

Some of the facts associated with bull dogs are:-

• They turn lazy in adulthood
• They need outdoor walk daily
• They need not undergo excessive exercise daily
• They are the best for apartment setups
• They are the best for indoor keeping
• The best climate is temperate climate for them
• Height on an average that they attain is from 12-16 inches
• Weight on an average of a male dog is 53-55 pounds
• Weight on an average of a female dog is 49-51 pounds

Some dos and don’ts

• Feed a nutritional and high quality diet, preferably all natural
• Do not opt for food choices that are mentioned in commercials
• Be proactive with the health of bull dog. Look for any minutest of symptoms
• Do your research. Make sure that the dog is not from a diseased clan
• Yes the life span is short, but that should not be hindrance, get a pet today

Having a pet at home makes you feel welcomed when you reach home after work. It may be a real good idea if you have been thinking of adopting a bull dog, as they make you smile always. But! You must do your homework / research well to be able to look after the pet once the pet is home.

You should know the nitty-gritty so that every day is celebration for you. You may conveniently visit our website to learn how to look after bull dogs.

Some instances may be challenging, but do not worry. There are vet doctors who are educated and licensed to treat them. Do not wait for tomorrow, bring your English bull dog home today. Celebrate your every moment of happiness and spend the moments that cause sadness with your pet.

Becoming a Dog Breeder

There is more to becoming a good #dog breeder than getting a male and female dog together and letting them "hook-up"!

Anyone ever tells you that all you need to do is get a #male and #female dog and let them breed and you can sell the puppies and make money?

Well, that may be true somewhat. Then you will be known as a "backyard breeder". Backyard breeders do not get the respect of other breeders or the buying public. They are usually not the expert on the breed.

There are some basic rules or guidelines that people look for when buying a puppy.

The breeder knows and loves the breed they are selling. The breeder is an expert on the breed they raise and sell, or at the very least, a very dedicated student. He/she will be able to answer any question you might have about the breed, or be able to find the answer for you. They will know the history of the breed and for what purpose they were bred. They know about any particular health problem that might be common with the breed, temperament, breed behavior, etc.

The breeder will focus on their breed. If the breeder is truly dedicated to this breed, then you will know when you talk with them. You will hear the excitement and enthusiasm in their voice. You will not see this breeder selling several different breeds of dogs. You might see this breeder selling a large dog for one market and a smaller dog (or lap dog) for a completely different market. For example; if you see a breeder selling Rottweilers and Doberman Pinschers, does this person truly believe in one breed? They are both large dogs and pretty much serve the same market. But, if a breeder is selling a Rottweiler and a Yorkie, then they are selling a large guard type dog and a lap dog. There is no real conflict of opinion there.

They put their dog’s health first. These people do not use cheap dog food, you will find that they are using premium dog food. Dogs get all their nutrition from only one source and that food needs to provide everything the dogs needs to promote good health. They will usually give their dogs a vitamin supplement as well.

They care about good homes for the puppies. Responsible breeders know that they have only one chance to find that perfect home for their puppy. They don’t rush to get the puppies out of their house when they are 6 weeks old or right after they are weaned. We have found that the puppies will better adjust to their new homes if they are 8-9 weeks old before being placed. They seem to develop mentally after 7 weeks and are ready to bond to their new family.

Good Dog Breeders will have a Contract or Purchase Agreement.It is always better to have everything in writing when making a purchase. This will clearly state what is expected from the breeder (seller) and of the buyer. This protects everyone involved in the transaction. Included in the agreement will be any health guarantee.

Registration papers. Professional dog breeders will sell dogs with AKC (American Kennel Club) or CKC (Canadian Kennel Club) registration papers. I would not buy a dog without these registration papers and do not suggest that you do this either. This includes you; if you become a breeder then sell quality, sell a puppy with AKC or CKC registration papers.
Good breeders will be there after the sale. But in order for the good breeders to be there after the sale, they must make a profit on the dogs they sell.

Making a profit is not a crime! Don't feel guilty or intimidated by other breeders or the "inner circle" for making a profit breeding dogs. Breeders should not be expected to do a good job and not make any money for their efforts. The feeding, shots, worming, imprinting and socializing of a puppy cost money and takes time. You are providing a service to the people that want to have a beautiful, quality puppy and companion. A superior breeder does not have a day job, this is their job. Be responsible and be professional.

Dog Feeding Schedule: How Many Times a Day Should I Feed My Dog? 1/2

Have you ever thought, “How often should I feed my dog?” Dogs thrive on routine and, though they do not keep track of time like we do, their circadian rhythm, or internal clock, makes it possible for them to tell when it’s close to the time for a routine task. Whether you’ve just adopted a dog (congrats!) or are wondering about how much to truly feed your pup, we bet you’ve thought, “How many times a day should a dog eat?” at some point. We’ve compiled a dog feeding schedule for adult dogs, puppies, senior dogs, active breeds and sedentary breeds, configured around each dog’s play, activity, sleep and water schedules.



Remember: Any dog feeding schedule is just a suggestion. The best way to plan a dog feeding schedule is to consult with a vet, who can configure a course of action that’s customized to your dog’s needs.


Sample Dog Feeding Schedule of an Average Day with an Adult Dog


Food: Most adult dogs should eat twice a day. This keeps their metabolism stable and aids in digestion. You’ll find they quickly catch on to when feeding time is. A sample dog feeding schedule for adult dogs would be:


7:00 a.m. – Breakfast
6:00 p.m. – Dinner

Water: The next step after establishing a good dog feeding schedule is a having a schedule for offering fresh water to your dog. In general, it is best to leave a fresh bowl of water out for your dog every morning and every evening. Dogs should always have clean water after any activity. If you’re working on housetraining or have a dog who overdrinks, you can schedule the amount and times you provide it.

But watch your dog carefully and, if he seems to be thirsty, increase the amount. A sample schedule for monitoring water would be:


7:00 a.m. – Clean and fill bowl half-way.
Noon – Rinse out and refill half-way.
6:00 p.m. – Rinse and fill half-way.
Bedtime – Clean and fill bowl about 1/4 of the way.

Sleep: An average dog sleeps about 14 hours a day. Unlike humans, they sleep for shorter times more frequently. A dog’s REM cycle is more active than a human’s and may explain the phenomenon of “chasing in their sleep.” If your dog sleeps more than 16 hours a day, it is wise to check for any illness. By scheduling his activities throughout the day, you will naturally create a good sleeping routine.

Play: Play is imperative to keep a dog’s skills honed, to provide stimulation and just to have fun. Play can mean a game of fetch with you, a board game where your dog has to do tricks to earn a turn, a doggie play date, or even interactive toys when you are away. Try to get two play sessions in a day. A sample schedule would be:

8:00 a.m. – Spend at least 15 minutes playing with your dog

4:00 p.m. or Right after work – Schedule a play date or try something creative like a game of hide and seek.

Activity: Activity is imperative for a dog’s mental and physical health. Ideally, a dog should be walked twice a day for 30 minutes. An extra walk does no harm and, in fact, will benefit you both. In our hectic society, however, this can be tough, so consider enlisting the help of a dog walker. Also keep in mind activities other than walking such as the dog park. A sample schedule would be:

6:30 a.m. – Walk your dog before his breakfast
Noon – Walk your dog (this is where a dog walker could be helpful)
5:00 p.m. – Walk your dog before his dinner


Together Time: A dog feeding schedule isn’t the only thing you should establish. Together time is a bonding experience for you and your dog. This is the easiest thing to schedule as it can be on the couch while watching T.V. or outside reading a book, or on the bed at the end of the night. The key is to focus on your dog and pet and massage him. Dogs love a light massage and many are happy with your foot stroking their back. Even just sitting touching your dog is a bonding activity.

Portuguese Water Dog

Portuguese Water Dogs are high energy dogs with a lot of enthusiasm. They are outgoing, curious, friendly, and highly intelligent. There’s a lot of dog inside that moderately sized, curl-covered body. Porties love to play in water and will take all the exercise you can give them.

When the First Family welcomed Bo, the Portuguese Water Dog, to the White House, they put the spotlight on this rare breed of water-loving canine. Fortunately, the Portie likes attention almost as much as he likes playing with children and swimming. An important consideration before diving in to ownership of a Portuguese Water Dog: If you don’t want a dog who prefers to be wet, this isn’t the dog for you. Caveats aside, this curly mop of good natured canine could be just the ticket for your family.
The breed was developed in Portugal, where the breed served as the fisherman’s equivalent of a farmer’s right-hand man. They retrieved nets, delivered messages, and pretty much did anything that was asked of them with enthusiasm and style. Few people need that kind of water-logged helper anymore, so the Portie’s smarts and enthusiasm have been put to other uses. One of the most notable: When San Francisco opened its new bayside ballpark for the Giants, a team of Porties went to work retrieving home run balls out of the water. The dogs, known as the Baseball Aquatic Retrieval Korps, or BARK, quickly became an attraction on their own.
But the Portie doesn’t need paid work; he’ll happily do most anything you want. The dogs do very well at obedience, agility, and other canine sports, as well as more people-based activities such as boating, hiking, and helping the kids chase a soccer ball. The problem won’t be finding things for your dog to do, but rather finding time and energy to keep your dog busy. Don’t bring a Portie into your family unless you have plenty of both to spare.

What about allergies? The jury’s still out. The Portie, like many dogs with coats like the Poodle, may be better tolerated by people with allergies, especially mild ones. Do understand, though, that there’s truly no such thing as a dog that will not cause any allergies. Expect to brush the dog thoroughly at least weekly and have him professionally clipped every other month.
The Portie is a wonderful family dog and typically great with children, although all child-pet interaction should be supervised by adults. Also, because the dog can be rambunctious and some fall under the “big dog” category, they may be too much for toddlers.
Give your Portie plenty of exercise and he’ll be happy in an apartment, a small suburban home, or a vast country estate. Just don’t expect him to handle being alone in the backyard. If you get a Portuguese Water Dog, make him a member of your family, not an outdoor dog. 

Other Quick Facts

• Portuguese Water Dogs have a wavy to curly coat that comes in a number of colors with or without white markings. Black and brown dogs are the most common; white is the least common.
• The Portuguese Water Dog can sport a “lion” clip with a bare rear end or remain fully coated. The profuse coat can be curly or wavy.
• A Portie’s curly coat, somewhat more loosely coiled than a Poodle’s, doesn’t shed much, but left untrimmed, will continue to grow indefinitely.

The History of the Portuguese Water Dog

The Portuguese Water Dog has been a coastal retriever in fishing-mad Portugal for centuries. Portuguese fishermen ranged far out from their homeland, all the way to the Grand Banks cod fishery off the coast of Newfoundland, and their water-loving dogs went with them. They were important members of the crew, helping to pull in nets and deliver items between boats. The Poodle and the PWD may have a common ancestor, and the PWD may have played a role in the development of the Irish Water Spaniel.

The breed’s importance in the fishing industry declined over the years, and the dogs became quite rare. The first members of the breed were brought to the United States in 1958, but it wasn’t until 1972 that the Portuguese Water Dog Club of America was formed. The American Kennel Club recognized the breed in 1984. Today the PWD ranks 55th among the breeds registered by the AKC, up from 60th in 2009. No doubt the breed’s popularity received a boost from the presence of Bo Obama in the White House.


Portuguese Water Dog Temperament and Personality

There are two outstanding characteristics of the Portuguese Water Dog: energy and intelligence. The Portie is an agile breed that thrives on any activity that challenges him physically and mentally. In addition, the Portie is a friendly family dog that enjoys looking after his human pack. In fact, the Portie needs to be with a family. He doesn’t do well if left in a kennel or left alone at home for long periods of time. He thrives in the midst of an active family.
The Portie is a good companion for children, but don’t be surprised if he outplays the kids. His natural exuberance may cause him to play a little too rough, so he must be taught early on to play nicely and keep his mouth to himself.
Training should begin right away for the Portie puppy. Even at 8 weeks old, he is capable of learning good manners. Never wait until he is 6 months old to begin training. If possible, get him into puppy kindergarten class by the time he is 10 to 12 weeks old, and socialize, socialize, socialize. However, be aware that many puppy training classes require certain vaccines (like kennel cough) to be up to date, and many veterinarians recommend limited exposure to other dogs and public places until puppy vaccines (including rabies, distemper and parvovirus) have been completed. In lieu of formal training, you can begin training your puppy at home and socializing him among family and friends until puppy vaccines are completed.These experiences as a young dog will help him grow into a sensible adult dog.
Talk with a reputable, experienced Portuguese Water Dog breeder. Describe exactly what you’re looking for in a canine companion, and ask for assistance in selecting a puppy. Breeders see the puppies daily and can make uncannily accurate recommendations once they know something about your lifestyle and personality. Choose a puppy whose parents have nice personalities and who has been well socialized by the breeder from birth.
Vigorous exercise is a must for the Portie, such as daily romps, canine sports (agility and obedience), and swimming. The Portie has a special affinity for swimming due to his heritage as a working water dog, and swimming is a great way for him to burn off some energy.



What You Need To Know About Portuguese Water Dog Health

All dogs have the potential to develop genetic health problems, just as all people have the potential to inherit a particular disease. Run, don’t walk, from any breeder who does not offer a health guarantee on puppies, who tells you that the breed is 100 percent healthy and has no known problems, or who tells you that her puppies are isolated from the main part of the household for health reasons. A reputable breeder will be honest and open about health problems in the breed and the incidence with which they occur in her lines. Portuguese Water Dogs are at risk of hip dysplasia, a crippling disorder of the hip socket that can require costly surgery to treat and often leaves the dog stricken with arthritis later in life.
All dogs have the potential to develop genetic health problems, just as all people have the potential to inherit a particular disease. Run, don’t walk, from any breeder who does not offer a health guarantee on puppies, who tells you that the breed is 100 percent healthy and has no known problems, or who tells you that her puppies are isolated from the main part of the household for health reasons. A reputable breeder will be honest and open about health problems in the breed and the incidence with which they occur in her lines. Portuguese Water Dogs are at risk of hip dysplasia, a crippling disorder of the hip socket that can require costly surgery to treat and often leaves the dog stricken with arthritis later in life. 
Additionally, the breed can be affected by a number of genetic eye abnormalities. One eye problem, microphthalmia, can be diagnosed with an eye exam, so have your puppy examined for this condition if his breeder hasn’t already done so. These results should also be reported to the Canine Eye Registration Foundation (CERF). Another eye disease that can affect PWDs, progressive retinal atrophy (PRA), has a genetic screening test available through Optigen, and the puppy’s parents should have been tested. Testing forms and additional information are found on the Portugese Water Dog Club of America (PWDCA) website.

A rare condition known as GM1 gangliosidosis, which causes a fatal buildup of toxins in the nerve cells of puppies, can occur in the Portuguese Water Dog. Through the determined efforts of the breed club, a DNA test was developed, and no affected puppies have been born for several years. Under no circumstances should you obtain a puppy from a breeder who cannot provide you with written documentation of his parents’ GM1 gangliosidosis status.

Other diseases that can affect the breed and for which the PWDCA recommends genetic screening include heart and thyroid problems, as well as a condition known as sebaceous adenitis, an inflammation of the sebaceous glands that leads to hair loss and skin disease. Your puppy’s breeder should be willing — in fact eager — to go over the health histories of his parents and their close relatives and discuss how prevalent health concerns are in his lines.

The Portuguese Water Dog Club of America is a member of the Canine Health Information Center, a health database. For a Portie to become CHIC-certified, a breeder must submit a hip evaluation from the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals (OFA), an eye clearance from CERF, with annual eye exams recommended until the dog is 10 years old, a DNA test result for PRA from an approved laboratory, and OFA registry of a DNA test for GM1 gangliosidosis. Optional tests include OFA cardiac, thyroid, and sebaceous adenitis evaluations, and a University of Pennsylvania evaluation for juvenile dilated cardiomyopathy.

Breeders must agree to have all test results, positive or negative, published in the CHIC database. A dog need not receive good or even passing scores on the evaluations to obtain a CHIC number, so CHIC registration alone is not proof of soundness or absence of disease, but all test results are posted on the CHIC website and can be accessed by anyone who wants to check the health of a puppy’s parents.

Remember that after you’ve taken a new puppy into your home, you have the power to protect him from one of the most common health problems: obesity. Keeping a Portie from getting portly is one of the easiest ways to extend his life. Make the most of your preventive abilities to help ensure a healthier dog for life.


The Basics of Portuguese Water Dog Grooming

With his handsome and abundant coat, the grooming requirements of the Portuguese Water Dog are above average. Regular grooming is essential to keep his coat in good condition, including brushing, bathing, haircut, nail trim, and ear cleaning. You can let the coat grow long or clip it short. Expect to groom (do it yourself or better yet, hire a professional groomer) your dog every six to eight weeks, especially if you wish to keep the coat trimmed short. Regular brushing several times a week with a pin or slicker brush is necessary if you let the coat grow out. Regular tooth brushing with a soft toothbrush and doggie toothpaste keep the teeth and gums healthy.

The rest is basic care. Trim the nails as needed, usually every week or two. Brush the teeth frequently with a vet-approved pet toothpaste for good overall health and fresh breath.