About.com Dogs

Dog Breed of the Week: Chinese Crested

Wed, 04 Nov 2009 22:30:04 +0000

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

Tue, 03 Nov 2009 23:42:16 +0000

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

Mon, 02 Nov 2009 21:20:53 +0000

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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Dog Breed of the Week: Collie

Wed, 28 Oct 2009 23:45:01 +0000

Best known as the film and TV character Lassie, the Collie is among the more popular dog breeds, and for good reason. These are gentle and loyal dogs that get along remarkably well with children. Sure, your Collie may not be able to tell you that someone fell in a well, but he will act as a guardian to his loved ones.

Every Collie I have known has been silently watchful, gentle and stoic under distress. Most of the Collie owners I have known will tell me that they will always have Collies. Of course, this is the case for enthusiasts of any breed. However, to me, there is something about the Collie that is remarkably noble and wise. Share your thoughts on the lovely Collie dog breed and send your favorite photos for others to enjoy and admire.

Photo by Philip Cheung/Getty Images

Dog Breed of the Week: Collie originally appeared on About.com Dogs on Wednesday, October 28th, 2009 at 23:45:01.

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Exercise Your Dog's Brain with the Dog Tornado

Wed, 28 Oct 2009 23:44:31 +0000

We know our dogs need routine physical exercise. What about mental workouts? We train our dogs and interact with them, providing lots of mental stimulation, but there is another kind of activity for your dog.

The Dog Tornado is part toy, part brain exercise equipment and part reward. This interactive toy designed by Nina Ottosson puts a refreshing "spin" on dog toys. Pun intended. The Dog Tornado is made of plastic bone-shaped tiers that have compartments for food. The dog must turn the levels to access the food.

I tried out the Dog Tornado on my own dog, a food maniac with tons of energy. See what she thought about it and you may decide to get one for your own dog.

Exercise Your Dog's Brain with the Dog Tornado originally appeared on About.com Dogs on Wednesday, October 28th, 2009 at 23:44:31.

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Puppy Love

Tue, 27 Oct 2009 23:14:37 +0000

It's so hard to resist a puppy. If I did not struggle to exercise self-control, I'd have a household full of yapping, piddling furbabies and my house would smell like puppy breath. Puppies are great, but they take dedication. They also grow up. No matter how cute and sweet that little pup is now, before you take her home you should make sure you are ready for a dog, puppy or not. If not, get your babydog fix by checking out some puppy photos.

Think you're ready to take the plunge? Learn all about puppies before you fall in love with one so you can start her life off right.

Photo © Stockbyte/Getty Images

Puppy Love originally appeared on About.com Dogs on Tuesday, October 27th, 2009 at 23:14:37.

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Dog Breed of the Week: Cairn Terrier

Wed, 21 Oct 2009 19:57:59 +0000

The Cairn Terrier is a confident, alert and active little dog with a "ready-for-anything" kind of personality. They are sweet and affectionate dogs that do well in all kinds of households. However, despite their teddy-bear appearance, Cairns are also tough, fearless and athletic. This is not your average lap dog, but a free-spirited and independent canine. That being said, Cairns are still affectionate companions.

Cairn Terriers are like big dogs in little packages, and perfect for those with active lifestyles who want a small dog that can keep up. With proper exercise, Cairns can do well in apartments. They also do exceptionally well with children when properly trained and socialized. If you love the darling Cairn Terrier, please tell us about your experiences. As always, send in your favorite photos of Cairns.

Photo © dregsplod on flickr

Dog Breed of the Week: Cairn Terrier originally appeared on About.com Dogs on Wednesday, October 21st, 2009 at 19:57:59.

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Pet 'Net Safety Event

Wed, 21 Oct 2009 00:00:25 +0000

I'm thrilled to be a part of the second annual Pet 'Net Event hosted by Petside.com. This year, nearly 30 pet-focused bloggers and site editors are coming together to promote pet safety, including other Pet Guides here at About.com.

Travel Safety and Your Dog

The holiday season is fast approaching, and that means getting together with family and friends. With this, often comes the need for travel. Like me, you probably think of your dog as family, so you may want to bring her along if it's feasible. Traveling with your dog can be an enjoyable bonding experience, but safety should be top priority. Know what steps you can take to keep your dog from becoming injured or lost so you and your dog (or other pets) can travel with confidence. Here are some tips to get you started.

Review of the Dyson DC31 Animal Handheld Vacuum

Fri, 16 Oct 2009 00:53:47 +0000

I could hardly believe it myself when I decided to review the new Dyson DC31 Animal, a handheld vacuum made just for pet owners. I'm not a big fan of cleaning in general, but I especially despise vacuuming. I ripped up carpet on my stairs and now have all hardwood flooring in the house. I'd much rather use the "Swiffer Sweeper." I only have a few area rugs that I touch up when I absolutely must. I also have very little material upholstery. The pet hair is everywhere, and I don't want to give it any more places to hide.

Now that you know how I feel about vacuuming, you may be surprised to hear what I have to say about this powerful little handheld vacuum. I feel like a Stepford wife or an ad from the 60s when I talk about this thing. However, this is no advertisement - just my unpaid, unbiased opinion. Check out my review of the Dyson DC31 Animal Handheld Vacuum and see for yourself. If you've already tried it out, you can submit your own review as well.

Image courtesy of Dyson

Review of the Dyson DC31 Animal Handheld Vacuum originally appeared on About.com Dogs on Friday, October 16th, 2009 at 00:53:47.

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Dog Breed of the Week: Puli

Wed, 14 Oct 2009 22:52:01 +0000

I've decided to make the Puli his week's featured dog breed, despite the fact that enthusiasts say this is not a dog. As stated by the official breed club: "In Hungary, it is said the Puli is not a dog. Friends of the Puli everywhere know this is true. Yet it's hard to say just what a Puli is." Indeed. However, for practical purposes let us call the Puli an actual dog because, well, scientifically its species is canine.

The most recognizable trait of the Puli is its unique coat. The average person tends to refer to it as dreadlocks, but technically they are cords of hair that are almost tassel-like. Painstaking attention goes into maintaining this marvelous coat, and the results are quite lovely.

Beyond the coat, the Puli is still an original. Devotees of this breed love the vibrant and fearless yet affectionate personality of the Puli. It's joie de vivre and distinction make this breed magnetic. Many who have lived with Pulik (plural for Puli) will tell you that they'd rater not go back to a "regular" dog. Puli enthusiasts, is this a fact? Tell us all about your amazing breed and send photos.

Dog Breed of the Week: Puli originally appeared on About.com Dogs on Wednesday, October 14th, 2009 at 22:52:01.

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