About Dogs

Thank Goodness for Dogs

2009-11-23T20:11:18Z

I have so much to be thankful for. I have wonderful friends and family, good food on the table and a roof over my head. I'm thankful for kind strangers, good neighbors and the beauty of nature.

But most of all, I am thankful for dogs.
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Thank Goodness for Dogs originally appeared on About.com Dogs on Monday, November 23rd, 2009 at 20:11:18.

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Thanksgiving Dog Treats - Homemade Doggie Gobblers

2009-11-22T12:25:00Z

Every Thanksgiving, my dog gazes longingly at the feast, hoping for a stray bit of food or a drop of gravy. Fortunately, she's trained not to beg or linger around the table, but I do catch her staring at us from the other room. It's kind of sad, but I have a strict policy against table scraps. After dinner, I'll give her a small bit of turkey (without the skin, of course). However, this year I thought I'd try to whip up something special for her and any other canine guests that might stop by this Thanksgiving. Read more...

Thanksgiving Dog Treats - Homemade Doggie Gobblers originally appeared on About.com Dogs on Sunday, November 22nd, 2009 at 12:25:00.

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Dog Breed of the Week: Lhasa Apso

2009-11-19T00:05:38Z

I'll admit it - I have always kind of looped the Lhasa Apso in with "similar" breeds, like the Shih Tzu. Not that I did not think of it as a separate breed, I just did not a lot of difference. I stand corrected. The Lhasa is an original, developed by nature for life in the Himalayan mountains. The Shih-Tzu's ancestors may be related to Lhasas, but the Lhasas were first. I have not had the pleasure to know many Lhasas, but I admire their independence and whimsy. I also admire the owners who work so hard to train these headstrong little dogs. Lhasas arfe smart and they know it!

The Lhasa is not the right breed for everyone, particularly households with small children, as it seems like Lhasas prefer adults. However, I do believe that any dog can adapt to just about any situation with proper handling. If you don't mind grooming, and you want a relatively small dog with a dynamic personality and moderate activity level, the Lhasa may be the one. Before you choose,learn all about the Lhasa Apso, a unique and intriguing dog breed. Love Lhasas? Tell us about it and share your favorite photos.

Photo © D.C Atty on flickr

Dog Breed of the Week: Lhasa Apso originally appeared on About.com Dogs on Thursday, November 19th, 2009 at 00:05:38.

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Dog Lovers' Holiday Survival Guide

2009-11-18T21:04:21Z

I am sure that I do not stand alone when I say that the holidays stress me out. The marketing, decorating and music all start the day after Halloween, and things in the world seem all fuzzy until some time in January. Somewhere amid all the chaos there is true meaning. Depending on your spiritual beliefs, this time of year means a number of things. For most of us, a large part of the season is supposed to be about peace, love and togetherness - not stress.

Your dog doesn't really know the holiday season from any other time of year, except by observing your actions and attitude. She will, however, pick up on your vibe. If you are on edge, it can affect your dog. As a dog lover, you must focus upon keeping your dog safe, healthy and happy. Then there are all the other little details. Check out this holiday survival guide to help you organize your holiday to-do list. Then, take a deep breath and relax. How do you survive the holidays?

Photo © Stella Panzarino

Dog Lovers' Holiday Survival Guide originally appeared on About.com Dogs on Wednesday, November 18th, 2009 at 21:04:21.

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Dog Breed of the Week: Newfoundland

2009-11-11T22:14:59Z

The Newfoundland is a huge helping of canine friendliness and hard work. This dog breed is beloved by many, and for good reason. Newfies are not only loving companions, they are also amazing workers. With their webbed feet and thick, waterproof coats, they evolved into perfect water dogs. For centuries, they have worked alongside fisherman and saved numerous people from drowning. It's simply in their nature to assist and protect people, but always with a gentle spirit.

It is for these reasons that the Newfie is also an ideal family pet. He will watch over and play with the children, he learns well and seems eager to please. He's cuddly yet athletic. If you have the room for a 100 to 150 pound dog that will never let you down, then the Newfoundland might be the one for you. Learn more about the Newfoundland and decide for yourself. Newfie lovers, please share your stories about this wonderful dog breed by leaving a comment, then send in your favorite photos.

Photo © vonlohmann on flickr

Dog Breed of the Week: Newfoundland originally appeared on About.com Dogs on Wednesday, November 11th, 2009 at 22:14:59.

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Holiday Travel Season Approaches

2009-11-11T21:54:37Z

With Thanksgiving just two weeks away, the holiday travel season is upon us. If you plan to travel this year, you have probably made your arrangements. Now is the time to double check - have arrangements been made for your dog? Deciding whether or not to travel with your dog may be a tough decision. Many of us do not want to leave our dogs behind, but sometimes it's in their best interests.

Traveling With Your Dog: If you plan to bring along your pooch, then each stage of your trip needs to include plans for your dog. If you will be visiting many places where your dog is welcome, bringing him along can work out well. Learn how to plan it right, from transportation to accommodations. Read more...

Holiday Travel Season Approaches originally appeared on About.com Dogs on Wednesday, November 11th, 2009 at 21:54:37.

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Update on Swine Flu and Your Dog

2009-11-09T00:56:21Z

Many months ago, veterinary professionals though that the H1N1 virus would probably not affect our pets. Back in April, I posted about swine flu, but since then some things have changed. First, the H1N1 virus was found in ferrets. Last week, a cat in Iowa was diagnosed with the virus. Pigs and even turkeys have contracted this flu. What about our dogs, are they next?

It's hard not to worry. But, before you panic and rush to the vet after your dog sneezes once, learn the facts. Read more...

Update on Swine Flu and Your Dog originally appeared on About.com Dogs on Monday, November 9th, 2009 at 00:56:21.

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Dog Breed of the Week: Chinese Crested

2009-11-04T22:30:04Z

The first thing many people think of when they see a Chinese Crested is "World's Ugliest Dog." Though that competition is all in fun, I must say that I find these little guys rather cute. I suppose beauty truly is in the eye of the beholder.

If you aren't a fan of bald dogs, there is another type of Chinese Crested: the powderpuff (and that's just about what they look like). Despite coat type, their personalities are about the same. This is an affectionate breed that clings to his loved ones, may be wary of strangers, and sounds the alarm if he senses danger. Learn more about the exceptional Chinese Crested, or share your insight with others. These unique dogs are intriguing to look at, so your photos would make a lovely gallery.

Photo by Justin Sullivan/Getty Images

Dog Breed of the Week: Chinese Crested originally appeared on About.com Dogs on Wednesday, November 4th, 2009 at 22:30:04.

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Defeat Diabetes in Dogs

2009-11-03T23:42:16Z

In addition to Adopt-a-Senior-Pet Month, November is also National Pet Diabetes Month. Promoting awareness about the occurrence of diabetes in pets is always important, but this month is dedicated to the idea. Many people, including pet owners, don't realize that pets can develop diabetes just like humans. If more people knew about diabetes prevention, detection and treatment, perhaps we could help make this disease less common (or at least less threatening).

In dogs, diabetes mellitus in dogs is usually quite manageable when owners know what to do. Diabetes does not have to mean the end of a pet's life. Educate yourself, your family and your friends about diabetes so you can all stay a step ahead.

Has your life you been touched by diabetes in pets or humans? Leave a comment to tell us about your experiences. You might even help someone else get through it. And, celebrate National Pet Diabetes Month.

Defeat Diabetes in Dogs originally appeared on About.com Dogs on Tuesday, November 3rd, 2009 at 23:42:16.

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Adopt a Senior Dog

2009-11-02T21:20:53Z

Bucky, a 10 year old dog, saved by adoption
Photo � Bill Garbett

November is Adopt-a-Senior-Pet Month, a time to educate the world about how wonderful older animals are, and to encourage the adoption of senior pets. Older dogs are among the hardest pets to adopt out. Sadly, many of them live out their "golden years" behind cage bars.

So often, those who visit rescues and shelters in search of a new dog are immediately drawn to puppies. Sure, they are adorable, but you don't really know what you will end up with. Unfortunately, after puppies grow up, some owners decide they are bigger than desired or not the right kind of personality. Other owners no longer wish to care for a senior pet, and these dogs can end up homeless. Read more...

Adopt a Senior Dog originally appeared on About.com Dogs on Monday, November 2nd, 2009 at 21:20:53.

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