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This is the archive for January 2008

Thursday, January 31, 2008

This stunning video about the true character of a Rottweiler needs to be shared, since it speaks for itself.....


Finally, Products that Do What They Say They Do!

Have you ever tried something and nothing has worked? Well, those days are OVER…
Equicaninecare are proud to offer Antimicrobial Solutions of the highest standard within the industry of Pet Health for more reasons than you realise. Some of which are listed below:
-Safe, Gentle, Immediate, Non-toxic, Preventative, Worry Free
-99.9% Efficiency Rate
-Cost Effective
-Professionally endorsed
-User Friendly
Their product is the only one on the market with a 99.9% efficiency rate, and this is due to an active ingredient called “Benzylkonium Chloride”. It holds the same solution suspended in skin softeners and conditioners, which is a proprietary registered FDA formula created for the medical industry. Using this formula results in accelerated healing by keeping the wound bacteria and infection free without the side effects of stripping the skin from its natural oils. Allowing wounds to heal from the inside out, this means the body will not waste energy on fighting off infection, but instead uses the same energy to repair damaged tissue in its most natural state. Equicaninecare's products are PH balanced, and unlike iodine and alcohol, will not dry out the skin with extended use. The only logical solution for your dog's and horse's skin problems!
WELCOME HOME

I saw him coming up the street,
So spent and weary that his feet
Seemed like two heavy weights of lead;
Ah, he had known so hard a day,
Small wonder that he looked that way,
And slouched along with drooping head!
Then, suddenly, with frantic shout,
A little yellow dog rushed out a yard,
To greet the tired man;
He licked his hands, he kissed his face,
Then dashed ahead in eager race,
Then back again he gaily ran!
The tired worker laughed aloud,
Straightened his shoulders; through the crowd
Pressed on; his feet seemed to take wings
So fast he walked as he went up the street
towards home...
The yellow pup: all joyous leaps and caperings.
O little dog so fond and true,
Much good in life you surely do
When you can make a man so old and spent
Forget fatigue -- make him so glad
He acts like any madcap lad,
And laughs aloud with merriment!

-Louella C.Poole
• “Deal with every issue like a dog. If you can’t eat it, or hump it, then piss on it and move on”. – Anonymous


Wednesday, January 30, 2008


ball


- Click on image to enlarge -


Happy Wordless Wednesday!

• "Beware of a silent dog and still water." - Latin Proverb

Tuesday, January 29, 2008

No, this dog does not have Arnold Schwarzenegger’s genes and no ….she hasn’t even spent a day at the gym. That’s right. She. Meet Wendy. The Whippet. Not exactly the most feminine representative of her breed, Wendy is a result of a genetic mutation. I first thought she was the best altered digital photo of the century, but (sadly?) she is real! Wendy - the dog whose appearance is a long way from the usual long, lean and sleek look of her breed- lives on a farm in Victoria, Vancouver Island, Canada and is what scientists refer to as : “ double-muscled” or a " Bully Whippet". Due to the genetic defect, nature rewarded her with twice the muscle size compared to the other representatives of her breed. Resembling the cross between Schwarzenegger and the Incredible Hulk, Wendy still has the heart, lungs and head of a normal-sized Whippet. Only her musculature is twice that of her breed.

Wendy


Her weight is 4st4lb (28 kg). It doesn’t sound that bad, but it is twice that of the normal weight of a Whippet. Her neck muscles, rippling shoulders and huge hindquarters would be the envy of any body-builder on steroids. Although her looks raise a lot of eyebrows, she is unaware of her large size and mutant form and is happy and even under the circumstances, a healthy Whippet. Her proud and loving owner, Ingrid Hansen says: "She doesn't know she's got a genetic defect. She might give you a nasty lick, that's all." She doesn’t have more testosterone than other normal Whippet females and is not aggressive at all. Sadly, with her genetic defects, 4 year old Wendy might not live for too long. Although the fellow dogs in her breed are bred for hunting, racing and showing, Wendy enjoys a slower pace of life.

Geneticists have even examined her to find out why she developed this defect. They found two mutated Myostatin genes. Myostatin is a growth protein that limits muscle tissue growth. She likes nothing better than to spend her days prowling around the fields, chasing (or scaring?) other dogs and horses and sleeping on her owner's bed. Although she is a pedigree, who is fondly nicknamed Arnold Schwarzenegger, she would probably never win “best of breed” at any show. Believe it. She’s no hoax. Hansen, the owner, has received calls from media around the world, including the Japanese television, the New York Times and the National Enquirer. Wendy really is one whopper of a Whippet! Nature works in mysterious ways…

Wendy the Whippet


Whippet or Whoppet?


It seems even the fastest Whippets have a mutant gene for the Myostatin. Bully Whippets, like Wendy have 2 genes for this mutant gene. It takes breeding two fast Whippets to bring out the bully in them, it seems....

Whippet Chart


And we at Euro Puppy thought only our Rottweilers and Neapolitan Mastiffs are huge! Wow...
Actress Nicolette Sheriden, from the Desperate Houswives series is the proud owner of Oliver. Taking a break from her domestic bliss, Sheridan loves to walk Oliver, who is a pale colored Golden Retriever. Golden Retrievers are intelligent, brave, loyal and have great dispositions; fitting into any dometic scene with ease.

Oliver


pets

Monday, January 28, 2008

What is the best collar for my dog? Well, for the majority of dogs, a traditional nylon or leather dog collar is enough. There are so many styles of dog collars to choose from. This depends on the size and disposition of a dog as well as your training need. There are dog collars for specific situations and these are as follows:

Traditional Dog Collars should ride high on a dog’s neck; not loose so that it slides down near the top of his shoulder blades. The collar should not be too loose since it will slip over the dog’s head. It should also not be tight as this restricts breathing and may cause coughing or choking. A collar should be snug with enough room to fit two fingers between the dog's neck and his collar. The collar size on growing puppies should be checked regularly. Use a tape measure to measure your dog’s neck, and then add on two to three inches for safety. Collar and lead width should match your dog’s size. Smaller leads are for small dogs and puppies, and wider, more durable styles are for bigger dogs.

Dog Harnesses go around the neck and around the shoulders behind the front legs. These are recommended for dogs that have upper respiratory disease or diseases of the throat or trachea, such as a collapsed trachea. A dog with respiratory problems would pull on the collar and on the leash and this would place pressure on the throat and trachea. Irritation and coughing would result. Therefore, harnesses relieve that pressure.

SIZECHART


Halter-type Dog Collars will give you the best control over your dog since it gives you control of your dog’s head. These collars look more like a horse's halter, with a band going around the back of the head, and another around the nose. The leash snaps onto the collar under the chin. When you pull on the leash, the dog's head will either be pulled down or to the side - this makes it virtually impossible for the dog to pull you forward.

Chain-slip Dog Collars, also called check chain or 'choke collars,' provide effective training when used correctly and on appropriate dogs. These collars are used for dominant dogs. If you plan to use a choke collar on your dog, have a trainer show you how to use it correctly. Correct usage involves a quick 'tug-and-release' action. These collars should only be worn during training sessions, never in a crate, and avoided in pets with delicate builds and tracheas, such as Yorkshire Terriers. For correct sizing, measure your pet's neck and add 2-1/2"- 3". There is a right and wrong way to put a slip collar on a dog. To correctly place a collar on a dog, the top ring on a properly-looped collar forms a letter P when you stand in front of the dog and pull it snug. If it forms the number 9, it is on backward and may not release immediately as designed, which may cause discomfort or gagging.

Pronged Collars, also called pinch collars, contain blunt prongs that protrude inward from the links. Designed for only the most stubborn pullers, they are temporary training tools used to change behavior on dogs that do not respond to any other collar. Halter-type collars give you more control and are much less likely to harm your dog.

Last but not least every collar you own should have a current nametag attached to it at all times!
Dogue de Bordeaux: Hooch from the Movie: Turner and Hooch (1989)

Tom Hanks plays Scott Turner, the Police-officer, who has 3 days left in the local police department before he moves to a bigger city to get some "real" cases, not just misdemeanors. Then, a man named Amos Reed is murdered, and Turner sets himself on the case. The closest thing to a witness in the case is Amos Reed's dog, Hooch, that Turner has to take care so that it doesn't get "put to sleep".The energetic Dogue de Bordeaux promptly sets about destroying Turner's house and turning his life upside-down. Eventually Turner, with the help of Hooch, uncovers a money smuggling and laundering operation led by his Chief, and Hooch gives his life to save Turner. Dogue de Bordeaux's are strong dogs that are loyal and devoted as well. Although they drool (ideal for a movie like this), it is of little wonder that the director chose this amazing breed for the movie!

Turner and Hooch


Dogue de Bordeaux

Friday, January 25, 2008

Under which group does your dog fall? FCI means the "Fédération Cynologique Internationale" which is a dog breed standards organization. It promotes and protects purebred dogs.

The list of FCI Groups for Dog Breeds:

Group 1 – Pastoral
Group 2 – Mastiffs & Pinschers
Group 3 – Terriers
Group 4 – Dachshunds
Group 5 – Spitz breeds
Group 6 – Scenthounds
Group 7 – Pointers & Setters
Group 8 – Retrievers & Spaniels
Group 9 – Toys
Group 10 – Sighthounds

For a more detailed list of dog breeds that are classified according to the 10 FCI groups, read further......
Every week Euro Puppy portrays 2 dog lamps. Is one wacky and the other one tacky? Are both wacky? Or both tacky? We will leave it up to you to decide. While having our own beliefs about them, we would love your comments...are they wacky or tacky? Enjoy....

Lamp # 1: This irresistible Tiffany-Style Dog Bobblehead Accent Lamp is sure to get a few dog lovers excited. Its features include: 151 pieces of handcrafted copper-foiled glass, 2 red or black glass cabochons for eyes and the head attached by a large spring for movement. This handcrafted Tiffany-style piece recreates a look made famous by artisan Louis Tiffany. The warm, rich glow of these pieces is truly a sight to behold!

Tiffany-style Dog lamp


Tiffany dog Lamp # 2


Lamp # 2: We don't know what happened to this poor little pooch, but his injuries must have been quite serious. One day after minor surgery he suddenly turned white and morphed into a night light. It seems some artists believe sickly pooches make great ornaments in the form of dog lamps!

Sickly pooch lamp


So? Wacky or tacky? What do you think dear Dog lover?


Check out more wacky and tacky dog lamps that Euro Puppy has collected, under our category called: Dog Lamps

Thursday, January 24, 2008


Happy Wordless Wednesday!

- Click on picture to enlarge -

(Happy Wordless Wednesday!)

BROWN EYES

In early youth I made a vow
That if to Cupid I should bow,
The one for whom he aimed the dart
At my desired, unclaimed heart,
Must have brown eyes; large, soft brown eyes.
Time came when eyes looked into mine;
Large, soft brown eyes that seemed to shine
With intellect. Did I succumb?
Oh yes! for though the lips were dumb,
Those lovely eyes I deemed a prize.
Within their depths devotion shone,
And as they gazed into my own,
They seemed to say, "My love is thine.
Please let me know that I have thine."
And Oh! I knew his heart was true.
My arms his snowy neck entwined,
And I rejoiced a love to find
So worshipful, so constant, so true.
How oft they've thrilled me through and through,
My Collie's wise, large, soft brown eyes!

-S.L.Dempsey

• In exchange for daily kibble, a place to sleep, and a pat on the head, contemporary canines will do almost anything for us - guide us when we're blind, pull our sleds across the snowswept tundra, retrieve dead ducks from a lake, even sniff through toxic rubble in search of buried cadavers. As any cop will tell you, the dullest of tail waggers still exceeds by good measure the best burglar alarm ever invented! - Jim Thornton, Men's Health

Wednesday, January 23, 2008

Artist, Sarah Theophilus’ distinctive style as well as her passion for dogs take the contemporary approach to the tradition of pet portraits much further. Her dog paintings capture the candid, the intense, and the more quirky nature of our beloved companions. Her art can be seen at Pet Portraits in Pastel.

Lilly the Rottweiler


Rottweilers are one of the most misunderstood and noble of all dog breeds! Their dark looks and bad reputation caused by the media has made many fear them. Yet beneath the dark facade, they are highly devoted, loyal and lovable dogs that are very intelligent as well. Used by police forces worldwide for their high work-drive and intellignce, they have gained respect from all spheres. This is not a dog breed that sits back and lazes about. Assertive, clever- and at times domineering- it needs an equally assertive owner to be the alpha male. Otherwise a Rottweiler will take charge. They are good with children but need early socialisation and care as puppies. This beautiful dog achieves extremely well in Schutzhund and obedience training. Anyone who has ever had a Rottweiler can vouch for the fact that this is one of the best dog breeds around!
• A dog with two homes is never any good. -Irish Proverb

Tuesday, January 22, 2008

We have probably all seen the interesting dog breeds that are labeled as the hairless breeds. Some would call them disgusting; some would call them strange, but more often than not the reactions are due to a lack of knowledge. What do we really know about the naked dog breeds? For years, scientists have believed that the hairless dog breeds originate from Africa and Asia. However there is not much evidence to back up this theory. One theory states that the Chinese Crested – one of the better known of the hairless breeds- originated in Africa and then moved onto Asia. So how did most of the hairless breeds end up in Latin America? Well scientists believe that all the hairless breeds in Latin America are descendents of the Chinese Crested that were brought to the continent in pre-Columbian times. Their popularity rose, as the Inca’s found that the naked, furless bodies were good for rheumatoid complaints. Much like a hot-water bottle!The hairlessness is due to a dominant gene. It is enough to have even one such gene to be totally naked!! Thus this trait is hard to outwit with human intervention, since it is enough for a dog to pass on only one gene, for the offspring to be hairless. It becomes easier to understand how these breeds can develop in distant areas of Africa, Asia and Latin America under these circumstances. There is only one hairless breed that needs two genes for hairlessness to occur. That is the American Hairless Terrier.

American Hairless Terrier

The American Hairless Terrier


So which are the other 8 dogs that fall under the hairless category? Well…the most well-known is the Chinese Crested. This dog includes two varieties; namely the totally naked one and the one with a bit of fur, which is called a “Powder Puff”. They are hairless except for the tufts of hair on the head (crest), feet (socks ) and tail (plume). The “Manchurian Candidate” of the hairless breed is called the Manchurian Hairless and it is a cousin of the Chinese Crested…from the Northern Regions of China. The Hairless Khala is a Bolivian dog whose name means: “Without Clothes”. The Peruvian Inca Orchid, which is also called the Moonflower dog, the Inca Moonflower Dog or the Inca Orchid dog was bred for nutritional purposes for the Ancient Peruvians. (Yes...well...quite sad, isn't it?) The Peruvian Hairless is considered to be the same dog breed as the Peruvian Inca Orchid except its skin is much darker. The Ecuadorian Hairless dog is the rarest of all the hairless breeds and also the most naked. It has long legs and a golden skinned body. Last but not least, the two strangest dogs are showcased. If you can pronounce their names, I take my hat off to you. The one is the: Xoloitzcuintle (a.k.a Mexican Hairless) and the Tepeitzcuintli. The Xoloitzcuintle is pronounced: sholo-its-quintli and means “Slave”. It is often nicknamed Xolo, for convenience. The Tepeitzcuintli is the same dog as the Xolo, but the miniature version. The Xolo comes in 3 sizes. Namely: Standard, Mini and Toy. The Afrian Hairless is the only hairless dog from Affrica.

Whatever your views on these rare and hairless dogs, you can’t deny that they are unique. Euro Puppy is proud to be able to offer Chinese Crested Puppies at times. On top of it all, they are odorless, flea-less and ideal for allergy sufferers since they are hypoallergenic as well. True wonders of nature, they are! So what do they look like? Well.....follow me and I will lead you through the naked gallery....let's take a look.....

Euro Puppy is proud to have purebred, champion-line Portuguese Water Dog puppies as an addition to the list of puppies offered! This rare dog breed originally herded fish into nets; retrieved lost tackle and acted as a courier from ship to ship in Portugal. In Portugal, the breed is called Cão d'Água (pronounced Kown-d'Ahgwa). Cão means "dog", while de Água means "of water". Its closest cousin is the Standard Poodle. Portuguese Water Dogs are very loving, independent and intelligent dogs. They love attention while being glued to their master's side. Although they get along with other animals, they will usually only really bond with one family member. This breed makes an excellent guard dog as well due to its determination to defend its territory.

Black is the most common color found in Portuguese Water Dogs, but Sliver tipped, black and white, or brown can also be seen. "Parti” colored ones are rare but they are becoming more popular in the US nowadays. White ones are still rare and interestingly enough the white hair is finer than the black hair. Two coat types can be found. A wavy coat falls gently in waves while a curly coat has tighter curls. The hair is usually worn in a "lion cut”, whereby the hindquarters, muzzle, and the base of the tail are shaved and the rest of the body is left full length.

This dog has four unique traits that have to be mentioned! Firstly, their skin has an interesting bluish tinge that is hard to notice underneath the black fur. They also have webbed feet that is ideal for swimming. Thirdly, they do not shed and they are hypoallergenic meaning that they are ideal for allergy sufferers. Last but not least, they can actually laugh! Yes..laugh! They have a very loud and distinctive bark that is often called a laugh, because it is loud, irregular, and used during playtime or during greeting. Now you can find purebred Portuguese Water Dog puppies for sale at Euro Puppy. They come from the finest champion-lines of Europe, where caring breeders look after the breed standards. For more information, contact Euro Puppy.

Portugese Water Dog



Mariah Carey's Jack Russell, called "Jack" ( or Jackson P. Muttley, to give him his full title) can be seen with her wherever she goes. Except when she flies these days. She lost her cool after she was informed her Jack Russell was “too big” and not famous enough to join her in the executive cabin. Mariah was furious at the airlines who won't let her beloved dog Jack fly first class with her. “They actually won’t let me put him on a first class seat because he’s too big. They would only allow it for a famous dog. Please! He has three websites dedicated to him!”, fumes Mariah. Jack Russells are actually small dogs, and are energetic and devoted companions. Many a heart has been captured by their spirit.

Mariah Carey and her dog

Monday, January 21, 2008

What is a BARF diet???? With its rather descriptive name, it conjures up interesting images. All is not what it seems! Euro Puppy has looked into what is becoming so popular today: the BARF diet… The word BARF is an acronym for Biologically Appropriate Raw Food. Every living animal on earth requires a natural and healthy, biologically appropriate diet. If you think about it, not one animal on earth, is adapted by evolution to eat a cooked food diet. The BARF Diet looks only at giving the freshest whole raw food sources rich in vitamins, minerals and essential fatty acids.

So what role does it play in preventing bone diseases? Well, a lot of larger breeds are prone to getting bone diseases; such as: Osteodystrophy (defective bone development due to poor nutrition) and Osteochondroses (bone disorder which affects the maturing skeleton). These two diseases come about in two ways; either due to genetics or due to over-feeding or over-supplementing a dog. Scientists have realized that bone diseases can be prevented by reducing the intake of calcium and phosphorus as well as reducing calorie consumption. Dog owners often over-supplement with calcium, believing that it is a good supplement for bone development. They mean well, but the natural balances are overthrown and this results in bone disease. As with humans, overfeeding can also result in disease. Limiting the calorie intake of dogs can definitely reduce the risk of developing bone diseases. But what is considered to be a calorie bomb?

What to feed your dog?


Foods for large breeds contain rice flour, dried beet pulp, grain sorghum, and dried eggs: all of which are high in calories. If you think about it….how did the large ancestors of today's dogs and wolves manage without these ingredients? If we think of our large dogs not as family members (for the moment of course!) but as canines…who are actually closely related to wolves, then their daily nutritional intake should equate with a “would-be prey”. Scientists believe this would equate to: 62% meat, 11% organs, 2% bone, 25% vegetable. So why do we feed processed food to our dogs? In one word: convenience. But convenience results not only in bone diseases, but a persistent itch, eczema, dental problems, colitis, food hypersensitivity, lethargy, a dull coat, kidney disease, and rheumatoid arthritis. A “premium” food is usually high in fat and protein. “Generic” foods are even worse, as they have a grain base with meat being the minor ingredient. This is pure bone disease paradise! A “premium” may also be a “generic” nutritionally, since try as hard as they might, pet food manufacturers cannot stuff the “would-be prey” into a 22 lbs bag!

It doesn’t matter if the raw meat you give your dog would be enough to make you “barf”. It matters though, that it will make him healthy and happy! Let that be the key! Dogs love it. And whether the bones end up in the intestines or in the backyard, buried for convenience; never to surface again; a natural diet seems to be the key to a healthy dog these days. Euro Puppy believes that having a purebred puppy is not enough. You need a healthy and happy puppy that will grow into an equally healthy and happy adult dog! All lies in nutrition and care. Of course, it is important to mention here, that food choices are not a matter of right or wrong, black or white – they are shades of gray. By reading up on the BARF diet, and by understanding what is ideal and what is not; intelligent decisions can be made which at least take us ever closer to the healthiest ideal for our beloved dog.

When a border collie goes to heaven!

Dalmatian: Pongo, Perdita and Lucky from the 101 Dalmatians (1961, 1996)

101 Dalmatians was the title of the live-action film produced by Walt Disney Pictures in 1996. It was a remake of the 1961 animated film One Hundred and One Dalmatians , which in turn was based on Dodie Smith's 1956 novel; also by the same name. The stars of the animated and live-action film include Pongo, Perdita and Lucky. Their adventures revolve around outwitting and escaping from the henchmen of Cruella de Ville, the maniac fur-collector, who hopes to make her dreams come true by slaying 101 dalmatian puppies. The light-hearted cartoon and movie had a sequel called 102 Dalmatians, which a lot believe didn't even come close to the original. Released in 2000, the story continues as Cruella de Ville gets out of prison and goes after the puppies once more. Dalmatians with their unique coat of spots and playful disposition, have captured the hearts of many dog-lovers.

Dalmatians


The spotted dog

Saturday, January 19, 2008

The 1950’s conjure up images of stars wearing fur. Be that Sophia Loren or Elizabeth Tailor. But draping a skin around one’s neck or wearing a large coat of fur is sadly still with us; even in the 21st century. Stars like Jennifer Lopez admit even today – after controversial sightings of her being swathed in a floor-length stitched-together mink fur coat- that fur is still one of her favorite accessories. Whatever your views, those people fortunate enough to be able to walk their dog instead of draping a Gucci-designed fur shawl around their shoulder will agree with Charlize Theron. The stunning South African actress, who can also boast with an Oscar Award, is a proud supporter of PETA: the People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals. Her controversial, but highly effective PETA campaign shows her with her dog Tucker. The slogan reads: “If you wouldn’t wear your dog, please don’t wear any fur”. This campaign was a reaction against the electrocution of chinchillas, so that fur coats could be made out of them. The Fur is Dead campaign aims to bring to light the fact that our love for animals should not be ignored. We all love fur…but I sincerely believe that we love them when they are still supported by all fours, with a happy tailwag and a healthy, pink tongue hanging out of a dentine-rich canine smile! Surely that is worth more than what any fur coat could offer?

Euro Puppy has been making families happy for the passed 7 years. Bringing love and hope to families who have dreamed of owning a healthy, socialized and purebred puppy. Our children grew up with Disney's 101 Dalmatians, where Cruella de Ville hoped to make that long fur coat out of the puppies too. We were all shocked then as well…so what has changed now? Disney may have sent subliminal messages back in 1961 with the 101 Dalmatians…and now PETA is perpetuating the message even further. Love your dogs…adore your puppies. And most of all….whichever animal species catches your attention; make sure it is for the sole reason of gazing at the wonders of nature, instead of imagining it draped around your neck! With more people like Charlize Theron and PETA, hopefully the message will get delivered. Forget the 1950’s, love your dogs and animals, and don’t wear fur. Euro Puppy’s team of devoted dog-lovers also believe in the fight for the ethical treatment of animals. Let us not become Cruella de Ville's of the World. Please.

Charlize Theron and Tucker


Cruella de Ville

Friday, January 18, 2008

Euro Puppy is fascinated by Flyball... What is Flyball? Well, Flyball is a relay dog sport in which teams of four dogs run a race against each other from a start to finish line. They have to jump over a line of hurdles, to reach a box. When the dog presses this spring-loaded box-pad, a tennis ball is released and caught by the dog. The dogs then run back over the hurdles once more; to their handlers while carrying the ball. Flyball was invented in California in the 1970s, and mostly took off during the 1980s when the first flyball organization, the North American Flyball Association (NAFA) was created. Their aim was to promote the sport and to design uniform competition rules. A second for-profit organization has emerged in the last few years. They go by the name of United Flyball League International (U-FLI). There may be slight changes in the rules in the US, the UK and New Zealand, where Flyball is very popular.

A Flyball course consists of four hurdles placed 10 feet (3 m) apart from each other, with the starting line 6 feet (1.8 m) from the first hurdle. The flyball box is placed 15 feet (4.5 m) after the last hurdle. This creates a 51-foot (15.5 m) track length. The hurdle height is determined by the shoulder height of the smallest dog in the team. The North American Flyball Association stipulates that that hurdle height should be 4 inches (10 cm) below the withers height of the smallest dog, to a height of no less than 7 inches (20.3 cm) and no greater than 14 inches (40.6 cm). Each dog must return its ball all the way across the start line before the next dog crosses. Ideal running is nose-to-nose at the start line. The winning team is the one that has all four dogs cross the finish line without an error. If the ball is dropped or the next relay dog is released too early, teams are penalized.

Flyball is one of the non-hunting dog sports in which dogs are essentially pet dogs with a hobby, rather than dedicated sporting or working dogs. Flyball is not limited to the size of the breed since smaller dogs such as Whippets and Parson Russell Terriers have also been known to compete with great success in mixed-breed teams, which consist of various sizes and breeds. Smaller dogs are often a happy addition, since the hurdle height is based on the height of the smallest dog. Smaller dogs’ only disadvantage may be that they have to fully jump on the release-pad, to release the ball. One of the reasons that Flyball is so popular is due to the fact that it is one of the dog sports that mixed-breed dogs are also allowed to play. Rescued Pavement-Specials are given the chance to shine next to their purebred canine friends. Herding dogs, like Border Collies currently dominate the courses; although many champion teams have mutts on them. Even a Shar-Pei has been known to be a champion at Flyball! Flyball enables owners and dogs to actively interact with each other. It is not only fun, but the dogs are allowed to enjoy exercise and praise. For dogs with a high drive to work; like the Border Collies and Terriers, it is an especially great way to burn off energy. These days there are many dedicated people who have created teams and portals of useful information on the internet, so that lovers of Flyball can unite in their experiences. One of these can be viewed on i-flyball. Many interesting facts can be viewed here, with also a list of Flyball Associations around the globe. For more fun information, check out this video on Flyball!


Every week Euro Puppy portrays 2 dog lamps. Is one wacky and the other one tacky? Are both wacky? Or both tacky? We will leave it up to you to decide. While having our own beliefs about them, we would love your comments...are they wacky or tacky? Enjoy....

Lamp # 1: This Personalized Lithophane Dog Light is based on an old magical art form called lithophanes. Lithophanes date back to the late 1800’s, found both in France and China. Lithophane is originally a porcelain engraving based on a photo that comes alive when illuminated from behind. Today, these pieces use modern, long lasting materials. The key is in finding that favorite photo that captures a moment and brings back feelings and memories...in this case it is of someone's favorite Siberian Husky.
Photo of a Husky
Lithophane Light of Husky Photo


Lamp # 2: Industrial designer Nicolas Gonzalez Garrido has created this cool Dog lamp. It’s called the Guide Dog because when you enter a dark room and whistle, it illuminates to show you the way. At this point the lamp is just a design concept, and Nicolas hasn’t announced plans to produce it. Would be cool to though, don't you think?

Guide Dog Lamp


So? Wacky or tacky? What do you think dear Dog lover?


Are these dog lamps wacky or tacky?

-- poll results --


Check out more wacky and tacky dog lamps that Euro Puppy has collected, under our category called: Dog Lamps
You sit, looking at your dog that has been with you for a countless number of years. You wonder..."If Spot was actually a human...how old would he be? Would he still play ball, or sit under the tree in the garden like Grandpa?"...Well dogs age differently and the magical 7 years does not always apply. Euro Puppy is proud to present some very interesting and useful statistics -that was performed in the US. The results are based on a chart developed by Dr. Fred L. Metzger, State College, PA. All dog-lovers who want to know the real age of their dogs...in human years, look at your dog's age...then look at what weight category in pounds he or she belongs to. You will then see the age equivalent in human years.

Dog Age


It is also important to note that larger breeds of dogs have a shorter life span than smaller dogs, and a small dog may mature more quickly in the first few years than a large dog would.

Thursday, January 17, 2008

A Poem for New Puppy Owners

Don't smell crotches, don't eat plants.
Don't steal food or underpants.
Don't eat my socks, don't grab my hair...
DON'T RIP THE STUFFING FROM THAT CHAIR!
Don't eat those peas, don't touch that bush,
Don't chew my shoes, what IS this mush?!?
Eat your cookies, drink your drink,
Outta the toilet! Outta the sink!
AWAY FROM THE LITTER BOX, IT'S FOR THE CAT!
(and must you kiss me after that?!?)
Raising a puppy is not for the lazy,
Those rugrats are funny but also quite crazy.
Don't despair through the toil and the strife,
'Cause after three years you'll get back your life!
So let's go for walkies, so you can do your "thing",
And maybe I'll get back my good diamond ring!

Author unknown.

Embarassed Puppy

• “A dog breeder is at once an artist and a scientist. It takes an artist to envision and to recognize excellence, and a scientist to build what the eye desires.”- Anonymous

Wednesday, January 16, 2008

The shipping and exporting of puppies and dogs to Columbia, Brazil, Mexico, Venezuela, Peru and many other South- and central American countries has never been an easy task. Dog-lovers living in South and Central America have had a difficult time in finding the best quality puppies of their choice. Nowadays, however, it is a smooth proceedure and can indeed be done from Europe! Euro Puppy has been making dog-lovers proud and satisfied in Latin America. With the help of its sister company, Euro Puppy USA which is located in Miami, the shipping of the puppies and dogs has become much easier. Euro Puppy USA not only alleviates the problems, but the Salespersons and Staff are Spanish-speaking so the procedure is hassle-free and customer-oriented.

The first Moscow Watchdog, Caucasian Mountain Dog and two healthy Bernese Mountain Dog puppies have been shipped to Mexico, where they have loving families now. Komondors – a rare Hungarian breed- have also safely arrived to Brazil and to Venezuela with a Lifetime Guarantee - which all puppies come with. Sales to many of the Latin American countries is challenging since often the shipping of puppies goes with more paperwork than expected. Some companies struggle to ship the puppies there directly. Another challenge for dog-lovers living in South America - wanting purebred, champion-line puppies- is that they end up paying an exuberant amount of import tax at their end, if the procedures don’t go as smoothly as planned from Europe. However these problems have been alleviated by Euro Puppy. With Euro Puppy and Euro Puppy USA working hand-in-hand, the puppies are sent directly to Euro Puppy USA in Miami from the heart of Europe and from there the puppies are sent in a speedy and convenient way to South and Central America! Spanish speaking Latin Americans also have the opportunity of getting acquainted with the Spanish version of the Euro Puppy website. It has been specially created for the Spanish-speaking community so their search for the right puppy is easy, comfortable and hassle-free. All puppies are checked by a staff veterinarian prior to being shipped to Miami, and strict quality control programs make certain that the puppies from European breeders are of the highest quality. Every South - and Central American's dream of owning a puppy can now become a reality!

Latin America

Artist, Sarah Theophilus’ distinctive style as well as her passion for dogs take the contemporary approach to the tradition of pet portraits much further. Her dog paintings capture the candid, the intense, and the more quirky nature of our beloved companions. Her art can be seen at Pet Portraits in Pastel.

Toby, the Doberman


The Doberman Pinscher, also called the Dobermann in many countries or just simply Doberman, is a popular breed of dog that originates from Germany. Dobermans are among the most popular of pet breeds, and the breed is well known for its intelligence, alertness and loyalty as a companion dog. Although in the 1970's-1980's, it was used more as a guard dog, a watch dog, or as a police dog, this is less common today. In many countries, Doberman Pinschers are one of the most recognizable breeds, in part because of their actual roles in society, and in part because of media stereotyping them as viscious creatures. Although they can be assertive, careful breeding and care has improved the temperament of this breed, and the modern Doberman Pinscher is an energetic and lively breed which is ideally suited for companionship and family life, making any family proud. Anyone who has ever owned a Doberman, can vouch for this fact!
• If a man be great even his dog will wear a proud look. - Japanese Proverb

Tuesday, January 15, 2008

When one’s life revolves around dogs, one can’t help but pay tribute to those dogs that in some small or big way stood out even in a canine crowd. Sure. There have been a lot of popular paws…that Euro Puppy showcases every week. But every so often, a legend is born, and Euro Puppy was so touched by the incredible story of Skidboot, that we are not ashamed to say it brought tears to our eyes! So who is or was Skidboot? Well, Skidboot was an Australian Sheepdog cross Pavement Special with a very special spirit! He was a working ranch dog that brought fame and fortune to his owner: Mr David Hartwig, from Texas. Skidboot was one of the smartest dogs, and is best known for winning the $25,000 championship on Animal Planet TV nework's Pet Star competition in 2003. That title led to appearances on the Oprah Winfrey, David Letterman and Jay Leno TV shows. Years before that, however, he was already catapulting into fame by doing the most advanced of tricks that he had learnt from Mr Hartwig. Skidboot entered the Hartwig family in 1992, as a last-minute Christmas present for Mrs.Hartwig. What started off as an innocent gift, rocketed into one of the most adorable and lovable – not to mention intelligent-pooches of our time! Skidboot was a true canine prodigy! He learnt very intricate tricks including the one called: “Stuffed-ball trick”. Mr. Hartwig would tell Skidboot to grab the ball on the count of three. The owner would count "one ... two ..." and then throw out a long series of unrelated numbers, until casually adding "three" –wherein the dog would sink its teeth into the stuffed ball with fervor.

Skidboot was a regular visitor to local schools and charity organizations, where he brought joy and happiness to children, fans and the elderly alike. Although his health declined, he stood by his owner in ferocious loyalty and utmost devotion; never giving up on his tasks, and his tricks. Living for 14 years, he truly touched lives. Not only the lives of the Hartwig's, but that of countless people in America and the world! To quote Mr Hartwig: “What a wonderful life of fourteen years he lived! Never has a last minute, second-thought Christmas gift ever shone so brightly as Skidboot."And why the name Skidboot? Well a skidboot refers to a cover used to prevent horses' hooves from sliding. In some ways his name is quite symbolic since with heartwarming stories like Skidboot, one’s life is touched in so many ways, that it sure prevents it from sliding into the mundane. Whoever has heard of the magical story of Skidboot, will surely understand, why Euro Puppy can’t help but be proud that dogs make up a larger part of our lives! R.I.P Skidboot…


While Britney Spears can be seen these days sporting different wigs, hairstyles - or the lack thereof- the seemingly constant factor in her life is her beloved Yorkshire Terrier (one must not forget Tidbit, her Chihuahua either)! Britney Spears can be seen outside the Millennium dance studio, sporting her fantastic wig and her new $3,000.00 Yorkie that she named London. London seems content, although in that pose looks more like a club-sandwhich than a $3,000.00 pooch!

Spears with London, the Yorkie



You must have heard the theory that over time a dog starts looking like his owner. Or is it the other way round? Hmmmm....

poodle!
Wiener Dog!
Briard!

Monday, January 14, 2008

Very few dog-lovers know how to get quality, well cared-for puppies in Spain. There is a large group of Spanish-speaking dog-lovers who have found Euro Puppy, the premier provider of puppies from champion-bloodlines. Euro Puppy has also introduced a Spanish version of the Euro Puppy website to cater for the Spanish-speaking community as well. With Euro Puppy, being located in the heart of Europe, dog lovers living in Spain have the opportunity to import pure-bred, champion-line dogs and puppies directly from top Hungarian and European breeders. It all happens without the added hassles, since Euro Puppy takes care of all the paperwork and the shipping of the puppies and dogs as well!
Spaniards love dogs!

The love for dogs and their popularity is not a new phenomenon in Spain. Native Spanish dog breeds include the the Spanish Greyhound, the Spanish Hound, the Spanish Mastiff, the Alano Espanol, the Perro de Torro and the Spanish Water Dog, which- while may not be all that well-known - only shows that Spain is a country that places a great importance on dog breeding. Aside from these native breeds more and more breeds of the highest quality are being imported into Spain. Spanish dog lovers have always had a need for dogs that have great breeding and showing potential. Now champion-line, pure-bred puppies and dogs are available to them at Euro Puppy. Puppies from an unmatchable network of breeders has been offered to them from the heart of Europe! Puppies for sale via the internet means less hassle, and more quality…delivered right on the doorsteps of Spaniards! All breeders undergo strict quality control; and a staff veterinarian examines all the puppies before they are shipped. Euro Puppy has strict anti-scam programs that make it a highly-respected and trustworthy puppy-finder company. Every puppy comes with a Lifetime Guarantee and payment is done under strict and controlled means. Needs are catered for around the globe…with Spain being no exception! So forget the Bullfights for now!The latest craze to hit Spain full force comes with the cutest, healthiest and socialized puppies from the heart of Europe! OLÉ!

Forget the Bulldfights! Dogs Rule in Spain!



As a dog gets older it becomes our responsibility to ensure that he or she receives the right amount of exercise, veterinary care and nutrition. Some tips for caring for an older dog:
The Right Bedding:
An older dog needs a comfortable sleeping-place and bedding. Nowadays there are special beds available for older dogs designed to take the pressure off aching joints.
Right Exercise:
A good exercise routine can help older dogs deal with possible weight gain and arthritis. Exercise also improves digestion and blood circulation, both of which are affected by old age. This can include a leisurely walk once or twice a day as well as some low-key playing. Although you can’t teach an old dog new tricks, you sure can play with him/her. Show them you have time for them! Not only puppies need love! Just make sure you don’t overdo it as this can cause over exhaustion for an older dog. His mind might be in it, but his body isn’t.
Balanced Nutrition:
As dogs age, their dietary needs change. You must make sure that you choose the right food that is appropriate for his/ her needs. Food especially made for older dog food will have fewer calories, enough protein, and vitamins and minerals that help your dog’s coat and teeth stay strong and healthy. Weight gain due to slow metabolism is also a common problem at this age. You can choose from a number of foods on the market with low fat and calories. You must always ensure that the dog stays well hydrated as well.
Adequate Veterinary Care:
At this point in your dog’s life it is important to keep tabs on his health. You must ensure regular check-ups to the vet, so that all the necessary shots are given. Ask your vet to regularly check for Senior Canine Cognitive Dysfunction in your dog, as any age above 8 doggy years, may show signs of this. Symptoms may include:

Symptoms of Canine Cognitive Dysfunction


A good book to read, if you have a senior citizen canine:

Good advice


Look after your aging dog. Although he may be a little slower than before, he loves you just as much, if not more!
Dachshund: Dinah: from the Walt Disney Cartoons

Dinah the Dachshund (a.k.a Wiener Dog) is a fictional character created by the Walt Disney Company. She appears as Pluto's girlfriend although she sometimes dates Butch the Bulldog as well; undecided as to who she loves more. In an episode titled Canine Casanova, she appears again with Pluto, who tries to woo her love and get to know her a little better. When she winds up in the dog pound Pluto saves the day, becomes Dinah's hero and the two start dating. In a lovely scene, Dinah gives Pluto a passionate kiss, which makes him feel great and causes him to want to rush the relationship!

Dinah the Dachshund


Dachshund


Saturday, January 12, 2008

If dogs have been used in art for centuries, then why can't our best friends give us inspiration when making lamps as well? Euro Puppy has always liked innovative and new things and has done a bit of research to see what people come up with when designing lamps that incorporate the image of dogs. Every week we will portray 2 dog lamps. Is one wacky and the other one tacky? Are both wacky? Or both tacky? We will leave it up to you to decide. While having our own beliefs about them, we would love your comments...are they wacky or tacky? Enjoy....

Lamp # 1: If you dig bizarre lamps then Lucky The Dachshund Accent Lamp is definitely your thing. The textured amber glass torso of this happy pup glows while an inquisitive muzzle points up as if to ask what the next meal will be. Antiqued brass finish on extremely detailed metal, including an adorable buckle collar and dangling name tag. You can’t deny that a wiener dog with an illuminated torso is pretty funny!

dachshund lamp


Lamp # 2: These dog lamps are called "Skeleton dog lamps". Well if you’re looking for a way to freak out house-guests, then this is the thing for you! This sweet little doggy lamp turns into a skeleton when you plug it in. Made from lightweight polypropylene, this dog lamp (around 1 foot tall) looks innocent enough right up until you turn it on. It turns in to a skeleton dog that’s sure to give Grandma a bit of a scare!

Skeleton Dog Lamp



So? Wacky or tacky? What do you think dear Dog lover?

Are these dog lamps wacky or tacky?

-- poll results --


Friday, January 11, 2008

"He is just my Dog"

He is my other eyes that can see above the clouds;
my other ears that hear above the winds.
He is the part of me that can reach out into the sea.
He has told me a thousand times over that I am his reason
for being by the way he rests against my leg;
by the way he thumps his tail at my smallest smile;
by the way he shows his hurt when I leave without taking him.
(I think it makes him sick with worry when he is not
along to care for me.)
When I am wrong, he is delighted to forgive.
When I am angry, he clowns to make me smile.
When I am happy, he is joy unbounded.
When I am a fool, he ignores it.
When I succeed, he brags.
Without him, I am only another man. With him, I am all-powerful.
He is loyalty itself. He has taught me the meaning of devotion.
With him, I know a secret comfort and a private peace.
He has brought me understanding where before I was ignorant.
His head on my knee can heal my human hurts.
His presence by my side is protection against my fears of dark and
unknown things.
He has promised to wait for me...whenever...wherever--
in case I need him.
And I expect I will--as I always have.
You have most probably seen that your dog's eyes glow at night, like flourescent globes. Ever wonder why they do that? Well it has a rather simple scientific explanation. Dogs have a mirror-like layer of cells called the tapetum lucidum (bright carpet in Latin) at the back of their eyes. Humans do not possess these cells. The job of these cells is to improve a dog's vision in dim light. It achieves this by reflecting light back to the retina. The more light the retina receives the more information it has to work with to translate that light into images. So when you see your dog's eyes as glowing spheres in the dark, what you're actually seeing is light being reflected by the tapetum lucidum cells, so that images can be formed. Otherwise, without these cells, dogs would be unable to see at night. The eyes of many animals -including dogs - will also reflect yellow, green, or other colors in flash photography as well. It is called the "green-eye effect" or the "green eyeshine" in animals. In humans on the other hand, the opposite "red-eye effect" is a problem because, with no tapetum lucidum layer to block the light, it reaches the blood-rich region at the back of the eye and causes a brilliant red image of it to be focused back through the lens of the eye, giving even the nicest people red, glowing, demonic eyes in flash photographs.

doberman with glowing eyes



Thursday, January 10, 2008

Euro Puppy has done a little research. Any brand, that has a dog as a mascot is appreciated by us. Curious as to the origins of the Hush Puppies shoes we did some research, and Boy, are the results amazing! Most of us know the Hush Puppy adverts...of a sad-faced, yet adorable Basset Hound with the longest of ears. All in aid of selling a few very comfortable shoes, called " Hush Puppies". But where does it originate from? Well, a Hush Puppy is actually an American food that consists of small cornmeal balls that are deep-fried. The ingredients include cornmeal, flour, eggs, salt, baking soda, milk, and water, and can include onions and peppers. How did a fried ball of cornmeal get that name and what connection does it have to a Basset Hound, or shoes for that matter?? Well, “hushpuppies” is often attributed to hunters or fisherman who would quickly fry corn meal and feed it to their dogs to “hush the puppies” during cook outs so that while the dogs were quiet, they could talk. So how did a Basset Hound and comfortable shoes get that name??? Well to be able to understand that, Pig-skin has to be mentioned. Say what? Yes. Pig-skin...

Hushpuppies


The Hush Puppies brand was founded in 1958 and the aim was to develop a practical method of pig-skin tanning for the US military. Pig-skin is believed to be one of the strongest of leathers and the Government wanted to use it for making gloves for soldiers. From the idea of gloves, shoes were born. The brand became instantly recognizable as a leisure casual wear of the late 1950s and 1960s American life. It experienced a resurgence in popularity again in the 1980s and 1990s. The Hush Puppies name and mascot were the creations of the brand's first sales-manager, James Gaylord Muir. Initially, the company's advertising agency recommended naming the product "Lasers". However, while on a selling trip to the southeast, Mr. Muir dined with one of his regional salesmen and the meal included the traditional Southern fried cornballs, or more precisely: hushpuppies. Mr. Muir saw a connection to his new product. The term "Barking dogs" in the 1950's was an idiom for sore feet! Putting two and two together Mr. Muir realized that his new shoes from pig-skin were so comfortable that they could "quiet barking dogs" - alleviate soreness in feet...or hush the puppies as it may be. And so Hush Puppies was born! Today, Hush Puppies are manufactured mostly in Hungary and as a brand, it has one of the highest brand recognition levels in the world, with many countries reporting over 90% recognition. Who would have thought......

The Hush Puppies trademark Basset Hound


Shakespeare rightly asked: "What's in a name?" Well in our case, everything we stand for. For the passed 7 years, Euro Puppy has offered healthy and happy puppies to satisfied customers from over 50 countries. It is by now a recognized brand worldwide, the ultimate one-stop puppy finder and a registered trademark! Euro Puppy doesn't work with pet stores and nor does it work with puppy mills. All the puppies at Euro Puppy come from top quality European breeders, who maintain the breed standards of over 150 different breeds. Euro Puppy adheres to the regulations pertaining to the right time when a puppy can be taken away from his or her mother. Puppies are not taken away from their mothers too early. This is often the case with pet stores and the puppies have less time to receive the love that they require from their mothers. All the puppies are examined by a staff veterinarian prior to being shipped to their new families. Every puppy is sold with a lifetime guarantee and all the breeders undergo quality assurance programs by Euro Puppy. Thus the high standards are maintained at all times.

You might have come across Euro Puppy in Last Vegas. Yes, there exists a pet store by the name of Euro Puppy in Las Vegas. However, this is a pet shop specializing in only small breeds and dog accessories. It has no connection to Euro Puppy Inc. whatsoever. Dreaming of a top-quality, pure-bred and healthy puppy from the champion-lines of Europe no longer has to stay a dream. You can easily contact us at Euro Puppy or at our sister company, Euro Puppy USA located in the US. If you have been looking for a puppy from a pet store in Las Vegas, sadly we cannot help you there. Of course, if you are located in Las Vegas (or anywhere else in the world for that matter!) and you are searching for a healthy puppy of pure-bred, champion-line ancestry, then of course we are at your service! The two companies may have the same name, but we are in no way connected, and the services we offer differ greatly as well. Our goal has always been to build families and to make dreams come true. Like Gene Hill rightly said: “Whoever said you can't buy happiness forgot little puppies." Euro Puppy has been building families with puppy love. We can help you build yours.

We build families with puppy love


Paris Hilton collects dogs like others collect stamps. The hotel heiress has a deep love for animals; so much so that she has become a vegetarian as well! Although her menagerie has a lot of animals to boast with, Tinkerbell, the short-haired Chihuahua remains as much of a celebrity as her owner. Tinkerbell was named after the tiny fairy from the Peter Pan story.

Paris and Tinkerbell

• "An honest man is not the worse because a dog barks at him." - Danish Proverb

Wednesday, January 09, 2008

It is winter-time and you must take extra care of your dog. Just like your own skin needs more care and moisture, so does your dog need more care. Here are few tips for caring for your furry friend during winter:

- Make sure your dog has a dry, warm, doghouse that has a flap-type door and blankets to snuggle into.
- Make sure there is plenty of fresh water to drink. Keep water bowls free of snow and ice.
-The skin is drier and flakier during the winter months and you may notice a lusterless coat. If so, ask your vet about adding a tablespoon or two of vegetable oil to his food.
- Bring your dog into the house when the temperatures drop.
- Feed your dog a little more. They burn more calories in the cold, both to keep warm and because exercise is more strenuous when running through the snow. The more your dog is outside, the more extra fuel he'll need.
-Keep an eye on your dog when you take him outside. Cold-wind chills can cut through short fur. Pet sweaters and even boots can be used if need be. Leave plenty of freedom of movement for walking, running, playing. Don't leave him outside for too long.
-In case you see a dog outside alone in the cold try to inform the owner or any animal welfare agency.

Take good care of your dog this winter and have fun!

Winter Dog

• Like all good Hollywood buddy films, the relationship between our species opened in deep enmity, slouched toward begrudging tolerance, and only in the final act blossomed into the stuff of - let's admit it - love. Man and dog now enhance each other's lives in so many ways, from the purely pragmatic to the deeply emotional, that it's hard to imagine any other type of relationship. - Jim Thornton, Men's Health

Tuesday, January 08, 2008

Artist, Sarah Theophilus’ distinctive style as well as her passion for dogs take the contemporary approach to the tradition of pet portraits much further. Her dog paintings capture the candid, the intense, and the more quirky nature of our beloved companions. Her art can be seen at Pet Portraits in Pastel.

German Shepherds


German Shepherds are popular dogs around the world. Their beauty and intelligence surpasses that of a lot of breeds and thus it is not surprising that police forces utilize this breed in crime squads as well. Also known as an Alsatian, in France and the UK, this dog was originally bred to herd sheep; hence its name. Apart from their role in the police force, they are also used as guard dogs, blind dogs, search and rescue dogs, military dogs and even as therapy dogs. The German Shepherd is the third most popular breed in the US. They also make loyal and loving pets inside the home. They enjoy being around people and other animals, although socialization is critical for young puppies in order to prevent aggressive and dangerous behavior as an adult. German Shepherds are well-suited for obedience lessons in various schutzhund trials. It remains a beautiful and intelligent breed.
FarSide

Monday, January 07, 2008

Cocker Spaniel: Lady From: The Lady and the Tramp (1955)

The famous spaghetti scene and the following night in the park is one of the most romantic moments in all of Disney animation. A beautiful and pure-bred Cocker Spaniel falls in love with a tramp dog. The sequel to the film is called Lady and the Tramp II: Scamp's Adventure. On the surface Lady possesses a classical canine personality: loving, good-spirited, and basically trusting. But although she is not quite as strong or forceful a character as Tramp, she is not without strength of her own. Romantic she may be, as well as frequently confused and terrified, but there is steel in her, as seen when she tells Tramp to go away following the unfortunate incident at the pound. An even greater degree of steel is shown as she struggles to break her chain in order to get at the rat that has infiltrated the baby’s room (she is eventually successful).Of all the characters in the two movies, Lady was one of those that changed the least between Lady and the Tramp and Lady and the Tramp 2: Scamp’s Adventure. She is still the same loving, tender-hearted, quiet-spoken dog as always (traits synonymous with Cocker Spaniels) and provides a lighter contrast to Tramp’s sometimes-excessive discipline.

Lady and the Tramp



Friday, January 04, 2008

Rihanna, the Bombshell from Barbados is the proud owner of Oliver, who is a Maltepoo.....a what???..yep......a Maltepoo. A poodle hybrid; mixture of a Maltese and a Poodle. Whatever your views on designer dogs, Oliver sure is a cutie!

Rihanna and Olvier

"Teacup" is a weight category which means 4-pounds or less. Teacup puppies are not common. Research has shown that Teacup births are substantially less than 1% of all dog births. Teacups, when compared to the general dog population, are very rare - and the demand far exceeds the supply. Teacup puppies have always existed and it seems like they are more prevalent today because of all the publicity they have gotten recently as a result of their celebrity owners. Teacup puppies are as expensive as they are, because they are difficult to breed, and they require a lot of extra attention at birth. Since they are so fragile, often weighing 2-4 ounces at birth, they require a lot of care and 24-hour attention for 2 or 3 weeks. Secondly, since the demand is so high for Teacups, with demand far exceeding supply, the price is higher. The benefits of owning a Teacup puppy can be mostly attributed to their small size. Teacups are extremely portable, making them great traveling companions for everyday activities like going to the mall or dining out. Airline companies also allow Teacups to travel in the main passenger cabin as opposed to bigger dogs that are required to travel in the cargo area of the plane. Teacups are great for senior citizens who cannot lift heavy dogs, and they are great for apartment owners because they don’t need to go for walks - an apartment provides all the exercise space they need. Many dog owners equate a Teacup puppy to having a dog that always remains puppy-sized. And the life expectancy of a Teacup puppy? Well, contrary to popular belief, a Teacup puppy will often live 15-20 years, which in many cases is a better life expectancy than that of bigger dogs.

Teacup Puppies in Japan
A pet shop in Japan is breeding teacup-sized puppies to meet the popular demand from the market. These would be the canine equivalents of Bonsai trees! The pictures show little “Teacups” at age 3 weeks. Current weight of these puppies is 150 grams (5 ounces) and they are estimated to weigh approximately 1.5kg (3 lbs) as adult dogs. Buyers are willing to pay up to as much as USD 5473 for this small-sized puppy.

Teacup Puppy in Japan


Teacup Puppies

Thursday, January 03, 2008

Euro Puppy, has managed to get through the yards of red-tape that accompany the exportation and shipping of dogs and puppies to Island Countries! Have you ever wondered why Robinson Crusoe didn’t have a canine friend with him on his island, instead of having “Friday”? Well, he actually did have a dog….that lived 16 years with him, and yet there is hardly any mention of him in the story! Nevertheless, these days Daniel Defoe would surely have to rewrite his story, since not only could Crusoe have gotten home in one piece, but he could have even imported a dog if he wished to stay on his island paradise! Although it is rather difficult to export dogs to island countries like Japan, Cyprus, New Zealand, U.K, Euro Puppy has managed it rather successfully!

In 2007, Euro Puppy was contacted by many dog-lovers living on Island Countries. It was extremely difficult to ship a much-awaited puppy to New Zealand due to strict regulations about quarantine. However, the dog is now with one of the best kennels in New Zealand to improve the kennel and the breed standard even further. Euro Puppy also managed to ship a beloved Yorkshire Terrier to Cyprus recently. He now goes by the name of Ireland and is having the time of his life, with his new parents! Two gorgeous Irish Wolfhounds were shipped to Japan. It was immensely difficult to have the paperwork approved by the Japanese government, but Euro Puppy stuck it out until the two mammoth Wolfhounds were allowed to be imported into Japan. The Scandinavian islands also proved a handful for the devoted team of dog lovers, due to highly controlled and strict quarantine regulations. The satisfied customer’s dream for many years was to get quality in the breed she wanted, and she finally found it through Euro Puppy. Now she is a proud owner of a champion-line, top-quality, pure-bred Canary Dog from a top European breeder. Although Island Countries are extra careful about importing dogs and puppies, due to their fear of Rabies and other transmittable diseases, all the puppies at Euro Puppy are examined by a staff veterinarian prior to their shipping. A lifetime guarantee is given with each puppy purchased and strict quality assurance programs validate all the breeders so that the high standards are upheld at all times. The shipping is done under strict and hygienic conditions. Had Robinson Crusoe lived today, he may never have needed to mourn his beloved canine or leave his island paradise…

Robinson Crusoe and his Dog

" My dog was a pleasant and loving companion " - Robinson Crusoe


Many a dog owner has been known to affectionately refer to their dog as "the four-legged garbage disposal" as they will happily eat anything we are eating. Some of our favorite foods, however, can be toxic to our companions and it is important to keep these foods out of reach. The following can be toxic to your furry friend.

• chocolate
• onions
• grapes & raisins
• coffee grounds
• yeast dough
• macadamia nuts
• xylitol - a sweetener found in chewing gum, candy and breath fresheners

Don't forget to throw away meat wrappers and packaging as well - and keep the garbage in a closed cabinet with a pet-proof lid. Keep in mind that it takes a lot less to make a little dog sick, so those with smaller companions must be most attentive to safety!
• "The Shar-pei is a creature that within the many folds of skin hides the magic conglomerate of the charm of a hippo, the courage of a lion, the sloth of a seal and the appetite of a pig. Yet through all this, it is lovable beyond measure. Ultimately it can win the heart of a hermit, the life of a workaholic, and the love of a dog-hater!”- Anonymous

shar-pei

Wednesday, January 02, 2008

• "If you stop every time a dog barks, your road will never end." - Saudi Arabian Proverb

Tuesday, January 01, 2008

father to son talk