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American Staffordshire terrier - Una raza que no deja indiferente a nadie

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American Staffordshire terrier - A breed that leaves no one indifferent

by Lobo Azul in Sep 05 2023
The American Staffordshire terrier is a breed that leaves no one indifferent. Those who live with one of them adore these dogs, while others cross the sidewalk when they see him passing by. Weight: 25 to 30 kilos hair type: very short and smooth Character: balanced and sociable Health: good, with a tendency to several genetic diseases Life expectancy: between 12 and 14 years Origins Although the American Staffordshire terrier is a breed that was created in the United States, the truth is that Its origin is very far away, specifically in England. In this country, “sports” that consisted of harassing bulls and bears were very popular. In 1835 they were prohibited, but dog fighting was still allowed, so the type of dog must change. Larger animals are sought, so crossing the english bulldog old (which has nothing to do with the current one) and the old English Terrier, the Bull and Terrier emerged. This breed is extinct and should not be confused with the bull terrier that we have now. This Bull and Terrier arrived in the United States in that same 19th century and continued its selection there. This was intended to make the specimens larger and the result was the birth of the American Pit Bull Terrier.. The breed was already recognized in 1898 by the United Kennel Club, gaining great popularity in a very short time. Although he was selected for fights, the truth is that he soon dedicated himself to guarding houses, livestock, etc., and the American Kennel Club came up with the idea of ​​naming some strains of the breed Staffordshire Terrier. It seems that the idea was to pay honor to the province where this dog originated, selecting specimens from the Colby and Corvino bloodlines, which were among the best in the American Pitbull Terrier. In this way the American Staffordshire terrier emerged, selecting the most representative Pitbull specimens. From there, the race takes a huge journey that ends in 1972, when the International Cynological Federation admitted it. Main characteristics of the American Staffordshire terrier The American Staffordshire terrier is immediately recognizable, even if we don't know about dogs, since it has a plump and very muscular body. That does not take away his agility, since he can run and move like an athlete. The head is very wide and denotes strength. The same thing happens to the jaw, something to which his cheeks contribute, since they are bulging and appear muscular. To complete his very particular expression, his eyes are low and very far apart, which makes his face unrepeatable and expresses kindness, even though we see that he is a very strong dog. The ears are set high and are usually rose-shaped. Years ago they were cut, which gave the dog a more aggressive appearance when he picked them up. Today that is prohibited. The muscles stand out on the body, with a very short back. The chest is wide, with muscles that are usually quite marked. Its tail is thick at the base and becomes thinner. As with the ears, it is no longer cut under any circumstances. If we look at the hair we will see that it is lustrous, that it shines. It is very short and rigid, allowing any color or combination of them. They weigh between 25 and 30 kilos, and their height at the withers is between 43 and 48 cm, with males and females very similar in this aspect. Character of the American Staffordshire This is where the controversy comes in, since there are many opinions. Despite this, the truth is that the American Staffordshire terrier is a curious, friendly and happy dog, trusting with everyone. He is outgoing and sociable, which can bring us more than one problem if we are the owners of one. Due to the bad press it has, most people are afraid of it and that will make them alert if they see our dog approaching. Inside the house he is very calm and creates a strong bond with his family members, especially with the young children whom he idolizes. Outside he is more active, which is often not interpreted well. He only seeks to have fun, but only people who have been able to enjoy the breed know that. Educating him well is essential A dog behaves as he has been taught since he was little. Hence the importance of educating the American Staffordshire terrier, since we are dealing with a very strong animal with a powerful jaw. Aggression must be put aside, because it doesn't work with this dog.. For this reason, we are going to use positive reinforcement when educating him, starting when he has the vaccines and can go outside. Must socialize with other dogs and people. With the first ones he has to learn to play, understanding that he can't bite whenever he wants and that when he plays he shouldn't hurt. Then we will have basic obedience, which will help us keep him safe at all times. This type of obedience must be repeated until it is assimilated, reviewing the orders weekly. Because of his predisposition to learn, it won't take him long to do what we ask of him. In fact, we'll even be able to teach you some tricks.  Care Starting with the hair, in this aspect the American Staffordshire terrier is going to give us little work. Being smooth and very short, the only thing you have to do is brush him once or twice a week. For this task we will choose a brush with soft tips., that they have some protection. Otherwise, we will end up causing wounds on the skin, so combing it with a rubber mitt may be the best idea. It does not accumulate much dirt, so we can space out the baths, although it will not make it difficult for us in this regard, since it dries quickly even in winter. His character makes him quite bored, so if he is alone for too long it is not unusual for the well-known separation anxiety to appear. We can avoid this by leaving him a few varied toys. Among them, one of the best is the KONG. It won't break it and if we fill it with food it will have a good time trying to get it out. Yes, it is more demanding with exercise. He needs it both to maintain his physique and to have good mental health, although he is not a dog that should spend all day running.  He will settle for three walks of half an hour each, better if there are dogs on the route that he can play with. Thus, although due to its size it is not a good candidate to live in a small apartment, it will be able to do so without problems. Feeding the American Staffordshire terrier Food is very important in all breeds, but it is even more so in the American Staffordshire terrier, since if we want it to maintain such spectacular muscles it will need “fuel” to feed it. As happens with people who do bodybuilding, Protein is required for muscles to grow and be maintained.. This is not cheap if it is quality. What does that mean? That he needs the best feed we can buy, since with the supermarket feed he will gain weight and lose muscle mass. The ingredients are what determine the quality of a feed If we buy a bag of feed from a supermarket, the typical one we find on sale when we go shopping for the week, and we read the label, we will realize why it is so cheap. Among its first ingredients we find wheat or corn, and then chicken meat in the form of by-products. That means that they put their beaks, legs and feathers there, something that is not good at eating time. On the contrary, in a quality dog food, the first thing we are going to see is chicken, beef, lamb, etc., for human consumption and high availability. In other words, the American Staffordshire terrier will be able to obtain the quality proteins it needs. There are quite a few brands on the market, but you always have to keep that in mind so as not to make a mistake when choosing, limiting your purchase to quality food. Within this we can try different compositions or brands. In the end, the one who chooses the feed is the dog himself, since that bag from such a great brand, which makes the neighbor's dog have spectacular hair, can make our dog vomit. Health This breed has very strong health, but there are some diseases that can occur with some frequency. Therefore, it is recommended to make a visit to the veterinarian every six months. Demodicosis Under this strange name hides a skin disease that usually affects the breed, and that in fact is quite common.  It is characterized by skin problems such as scales, itching, bald patches or pustules, all of which are caused by parasites, which is why we are talking about an infectious disease. Treatment may combine baths, injections and other medications. It's a little heavy, but quite effective. hip dysplasia Due to its size, the American Staffordshire terrier is at risk for dysplasia. Hip dysplasia is a disease that affects the hind legs and hips., when their bones do not “seat” well in the accommodation they have in both hips. It's genetic, so The best way to prevent it is to buy a dog from a responsible breeder., which can demonstrate with x-rays that its animals are free of dysplasia. If the dog develops it, it can suffer in different degrees, from mild to more serious, in which case the only solution is for it to undergo surgery. Eye conditions You also have to be careful with your eyes. The first problem is cataracts, which will appear as the dog gets older and are noticeable because the eye is covered, gray. Another is progressive retinal atrophy and it is more serious because it has no cure.. For this reason, check-ups are very important, because thanks to them this disease is detected and the evolution is delayed as much as possible. By ingesting antioxidants and vitamins, its progress is somewhat slowed, but we have to get used to the idea that blindness cannot be avoided. In addition, it sometimes causes problems such as lens dislocation or glaucoma, so the dog must undergo surgery. Disorders of sexual development Sometimes, the breed suffers from this type of problems that usually manifest themselves with excessive sexual attitudes, which is not pleasant with an animal of this strength and size. Here the treatment is simple and economical, since it will be enough to sterilize the dog as soon as the veterinarian gives us the go-ahead. Other medium dog breeds that you should know: French Bulldog bull terrier American Bully Belgian Shepherd golden retriever border collie American Bulldog Harrier Boxer English Cocker Spaniel Schnauzer Beagle
Terrier tibetano - Un perfecto perro decompañía

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Tibetan Terrier - A perfect companion dog

by Lobo Azul in Aug 29 2023
The Tibetan Terrier has nothing to do with the rest of the terriers, and Today he has become a perfect companion dog.. It's in thousands of homes around the world, which means it has some much-appreciated qualities.  Weight: 8 to 12 kilos Hair type: long and straight  Character: calm, faithful and shy  Health: very good  Life expectancy: from 12 to 14 years  Origins of the Tibetan Terrier Their name leaves no room for doubt and these Tibetan terriers come from Tibet, which today belongs to China.  The monks had them in the monasteries to do all kinds of tasks. There they acted as guard dogs, but they also guided the flocks or kept the monks company, who kept the lineage unchanged for a long time.  In fact, The Tibetan Terrier is one of the best preserved breeds, one of those that has suffered the least changes over the centuries.  It is not known exactly when it originated, but it is believed that it was more than 2,000 years ago, when the Tibetans began a somewhat primitive kind of breed selection, separating large animals from small ones.  This is how the Tibetan Terrier and some other breeds such as the Tibetan Spaniel emerged, remaining with the monks without the general public knowing anything about them.  This Tibet Apso, the name by which the breed is also known, did not arrive in Europe until 1920, when a doctor named Agnes Gray received a puppy as a gift. She worked in Tibet and a couple she cared for gave her a puppy.  This dog went to England with her owner and breeding began with her, with the breed being recognized in 1930 by the English Kennel Club. From the old continent it moved to the United States and in 1956 the breed was recognized in that country.  The name terrier comes from the fact that foreigners saw it as similar to this type of European dog., which is why the breed is called Tibetan Terrier, although it has nothing to do with them.  Main features We are looking at a medium-sized dog, with a weight ranging from 8 to 12 kilos, and a height of between 35 and 45 cm.  It has a solid body and square shapes, as does its head. The eyes are round and are used as a measurement, since the breed standard calls for something a little peculiar.  This means that the distance from the nose (nose) to the eyes must be the same as the distance from the eyes to the base of the head.  Their ears hang from the skull, on the sides, and are V-shaped. As for their hair, they have a double layer to insulate themselves from inclement weather, something that can be a problem in hot places.  Regarding the tones of your coat, anything is allowed except chocolate and liver., so we can see specimens with very varied colors.  Character As is evident, the character of the Tibetan Terrier has nothing to do with that of terriers, since He is very sweet and docile. He loves spending time with his loved ones and is always wary of strangers.  When it comes to living with children, he is not one of those dogs that can tolerate anything, like a Labrador. If these are very small, it is better to wait or opt for a different breed.  It is possible to educate the Tibetan Terrier, socialize it, but in the end there will be problems with the children, because they will not respect it and we do not know how it may react.  His character is tenacious and brave. With this we must be very careful, because he does not hesitate to play the hero, getting into very dangerous situations.  Well socialized, and always with the help of a professional, many animals of this breed have become therapy dogs, since they are sociable and love receiving attention from everyone. Given its character, they don't feel good when they are alone. If they are going to have company for a good part of the day, they will have no problems living in a small apartment, but you should always ensure that they take long walks where they can play.  Tibetan Terrier Care Like any long-haired dog, care begins with its grooming. Thus, we will have to brush it as often as possible, as this will prevent its coat from getting tangled or knotted.  Baths should also be frequent, especially if he lives with us inside the house. You will have to put him in the bathtub at least once every two months. Because this period of time is very short, it is best to purchase a quality shampoo for long-coat dogs. The ears are going to give us some work. Their hair also grows inside, so it is best to cut it often. This prevents dirt, humidity, or foreign objects from accumulating there.  It is very important that you exercise and you will need at least an hour a day. Walking with him is fun, because since he likes to play so much we will have a good time. Here we can teach him some tricks, because at that moment he will pay more attention to us.  Finally, we must insist on early socialization. He is an excellent dog, but as long as he has been socialized since he was a puppy. His character is somewhat distrustful by nature, something that we must overcome little by little.  Food When we are going to choose the diet of the Tibet Apso, we must take into account that it is a small breed, with a high metabolism and that is why it tends to eat a lot. Therefore, in order to avoid problems, the first thing we will do is divide the daily intake, choosing for this a special feed intended for these breeds, with small croquettes, not too hard and with a good flavor.  We will leave the food for larger dogs, since this type of breed has a hard time chewing hard balls, something that can cause vomiting and stomach problems.  There are many brands that we can choose from, so we will go to our veterinarian or trusted pet store to ask, knowing that we must purchase premium feed, the ones that have a higher price.  With this, we ensure that in its composition there are only good ingredients, such as meats for human consumption, and we can even purchase a grain-free feed, which will help you maintain your weight and have better digestion.  At first, It is likely that we will have to try several feeds until we find the right one.. This will be the one that manages to please the animal, while producing small and compact feces, with the absence of bad odor.  Tibetan Terrier Health The Tibetan Terrier he has very good health, a result of the isolation to which it has been subjected, which avoided intensive breeding programs and capricious modifications of its phenotype.  You may suffer from hip dysplasia  Even though the Hip dysplasia is a pathology that is associated with large dogs, the little ones also suffer from it.  This is the case of the Tibet Apso, in which this disease can occur, although it is true that since their weight is less than that of a large breed dog, it affects them in a different way.  In fact, if it appears, it is usually treated with chondroprotectors, which help the joints to be in good condition, acting as a natural “lubricant.”  As always when we talk about dysplasia, We can improve our health by purchasing the dog from a reputable kennel., who has no problem certifying us that the ancestors of the puppy we are taking are free of dysplasia.  No responsible breeder breeds dogs with dysplasia, but you should still ask for tests, such as x-rays of the parents.  In turn, and if the veterinarian considers it appropriate when seeing the dog walking, a special x-ray can be done to see if there is dysplasia and its degree. They also suffer from vision problems  There are hardly any breeds that are free from eye diseases. In this case, progressive retinal atrophy, cataracts, or eye dislocation may occur.  Little can be done here, especially against ocular dislocation, so it is best to go to the vet for check-ups when he tells us, thus being able to detect these pathologies as soon as possible. Other dog breeds that may interest you: German Spitz French Bulldog Andalusian winemaker Pomeranian yorkshire dachshund American Bully Belgian Shepherd golden retriever border collie english bulldog
Spitz Alemán - Elegancia y encanto en una raza canina

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German Spitz - Elegance and charm in a dog breed

by Lobo Azul in Aug 08 2023
Under the name German Spitz we have five separate breeds, but that the FCI has decided to put them in the same standard with some differences between them, although what most distinguishes them is the size. We are going to focus on three, leaving aside the wolf type and the Pomeranian. Weight: from 2.5 to 22 kilos, depending on the variety hair type: long and straight Character: affectionate, active and sociable Health: very good Life expectancy: from 12 to 14 years Origins It is nothing new that the origins of a breed are not well defined and those of the German Spitz are no exception, although it is believed that it could descend from Stone Age dogs. These dogs were known as "spitz of the lake communities", so they may be the oldest breed in what we today call Central Europe. The German Spitz and the rest of its varieties such as the small, medium or large Spitz are classified as primitive type dogs., as is the case with those that come from that dog in the lake area. The reason they are called that is because they look a lot like the wolf. They have raised ears, the snout ends in a point and the tail always goes over the back. In Europe, all Spitz are of the breed in question, with the exception of the Italian Volpino. Its popularity in the West is due to Queen Charlotte, wife of George III of England. With her the German Spitz arrived at the English court, becoming known in all the palaces. Right now, outside of Germany they are not very famous, except for the smallest breed, called Pomeranian or Dwarf Spitz, as it has become a highly appreciated pet.  Main features The characteristics of these dogs, whether it is the medium Spitz, the large Spitz or the small German dog, which in this case would be the small Spitz, are the same in all cases. Only its size and colors vary. available or their availability. One of their most characteristic parts is the head, since these dogs look like foxes. The stop (the area that joins the skull to the nose) is marked and the nose is round, very small. His eyes are medium-sized, oblique and dark. As for the ears, they are erect, set very high and are triangular like those of other primitive breeds, for example, the Shiba Inu. If we look at it from the side we will see that it is square, with a short and very strong back. The chest is deep and well muscled, while the tail is rolled over the back and is covered with a lot of hair, being another of its identity signs, It has a coat with two layers. The interior is dense, short and looks very similar to wool. The one on the outside has longer and more separated hair. The colors that are accepted are not the same in all varieties:   Large Spitz: can be black, white or brown. Medium Spitz: the same colors are accepted plus black with tan, orange, grayish, cream or cream sable.   Small Spitz: has the same shades as the medium one. Regarding the height at the withers, the small variety measures around 26 cm; Those cm rise to 34 in the medium Spitz and reach 46 in the large one. Character of the German Spitz The temperament of the three varieties or sizes is very similar. These are happy dogs, very attached to their families and at the same time reserved with strangers, quite barking. That can be good for us if we live in the countryside, because although they do not protect, they do alert us when they see something strange. However, if we are going to live with the German Spitz in the city, we must take this into account. They tend to be problematic with dogs of the same sex, which is not the case with household pets, which the German Spitz considers its family. We must work to ensure that they tolerate dogs outside, focusing on socialization from when they are very young. If we have small children at home it is better to look for another breed, because they cannot stand the mistreatment to which the younger ones subject them. In fact, they usually react badly to this situation, going so far as to bite if they feel they are being mistreated. Another thing is that we are talking about older children, over 10 years old. In this case, they will become inseparable playmates. Care Hair is what is going to give us the most work, especially in the large Spitz, which is the one with a larger coat. In fact, it is recommended to comb it every day to prevent tangles from occurring. During the shedding season, it is advisable to do it up to two times in the same day, otherwise the house will be full of hair. They adapt very well to life in apartments, especially the small Spitz. For the medium and large German Spitz it is better to have a garden, even if it is not large. They are going to ask us for a walk, plus the two largest varieties and everyone, regardless of their height, has a problem with the heat. Because of the wool blanket they have as an undercoat, heat is not the best for them. We are going to take this into account, because if we live in an area with very hot summers it may not be the best breed in our case. Food Their feeding needs differ quite a bit and are in accordance with the size of the German Spitz that we have at home. If we decide on the small one, we must buy specific feed for mini breeds.. The reason is that “normal” food has a kibble that is too large and hard for the mouths of mini dogs, let alone puppies. The medium and large ones will be able to eat specific feed, although they will not have problems breaking any type of kibble. We will acquire a premium feed, with a good composition in which the main part is meat and not by-products. Here, it is possible that in the case of the small Spitz you will have to try several brands until you find the ideal one. Because of his hair, it would be advisable to give him some supplement. If we see that his coat does not shine with dog food, we can add a splash of olive oil to his food several times a week. Another option is to look for a brand that supplements its formula with oils. or even switch to one of those feeds that are made only of fish, as they will have a high fatty acid content. German Spitz Health The health of the German Spitz is very good and that is no coincidence. This comes from the same moment in which the standard was written, since no exaggerated features were reflected in it, as happens with other breeds. In fact, they look like foxes, an aspect in which functionality has taken precedence over aesthetics. Yes, there are some problems, but not specific to the breed, but rather the type that any dog can suffer from, even mixed breeds. one of them is patella dislocation, a disease that is named in almost all races. It is more common in the Miniature Spitz, although it can occur in the medium and large Spitz. The mouth causes problems in the small Spitz Of all, perhaps the most delicate is the small Spitz. In fact, your mouth can be a source of problems, starting with impacted teeth when they begin to move. Another disease has to do with early tooth loss. This happens to small breeds, although you can make the teeth last longer with regular cleanings at the vet. They are no strangers to hip dysplasia It seems like a curse of all medium and large races, so German Spitz of these sizes can also suffer from hip dysplasia. It is true that due to its morphology the possibilities are less than those of other breeds, such as the German Shepherd, but we always have that risk. The best way to avoid this is to ask for proof from the parents when we buy a copy. Both must be free of dysplasia and if possible we will ask for the grandparents' certificates as well. Other dog breeds that may interest you: French Bulldog Maltese Bichon Cavapoo Tibetan Spaniel Australian Terrier Mal-shi Czech Terrier dachshund Norfolk Terrier Prague Mouse Pekingese poodle Chihuahuas Welsh Corgi Westy yorkshire
Shiba Inu -  La elegancia y carácter del pequeño gran perro japonés

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Shiba Inu - The elegance and character of the little big Japanese dog

by Lobo Azul in Aug 01 2023
The Shiba Inu is a small dog, with the ideal dimensions to become a companion dog. That's why, is one of the most popular animals in Japan, where its inhabitants adore him. Weight: from 9 to 15 kilos hair type: short Character: shy and intelligent. Very faithful Health: excellent, robust Life expectancy: between 15 and 18 years Origins We are facing one of the oldest races in the world, which originated about 4,000 years ago in South Asia.  The first news about this dog dates back to 2000 BC. C. and come from what is now Japan, a place where they arrived from Southern China. For centuries He was used in hunting, in which he excelled in all types of terrain.. This is how he continued to practice this trade until the 19th century, when hunting became a sport and with the opening of Japan to the world, European breeds arrived. Luckily, thanks to the work of hunters and Japanese intellectuals, the breed was recovered, which went through another critical moment in World War II. At this time they were able to save three bloodlines: the San In Shiba, Mino Shiba and Shin Shu Shiba. From them the Shiba Inu that we know now could be developed. It must be said that it was not originally called that, since the name “shiba” was not used until 1920. Already in 1934 the breed standard was created, which became a natural monument of Japan. Main features If we know the Akita Inu, another Japanese dog, we realize that the Shiba Inu is very similar, but that we are dealing with a smaller dog with a thinner snout. His chest is robust and his hair is short. Its triangular ears give the breed its characteristic appearance., in addition to an alert expression, as if he were always attentive to what we tell him. The size of males and females is very similar, with about 40 cm at the withers in the case of the former and about 37 cm in the case of the latter. The weight is between 11 and 15 kilos in males, while females are usually around 9-13 kilos. The head is wide and with a well-marked stop. The lips are joined and hide a mouth whose teeth close like scissors. When we look at the head, we realize that we are looking at an ancient dog, very close to the wolf. All colors are accepted, except white. Thus, we can see dogs of tan, red, cream, sesame, red sesame, red and tan, etc. Of course, they should always have areas of white hair on the jaw, abdomen, inside of the tail, legs, cheeks and snout. Character of the Shiba Inu It has a character that reminds us of the people from its place of origin, since It is very independent and silent, although this will be like this for us all the time. He usually watches over the house and if he has a garden he will not stop patrolling, warning of the presence of other people or other animals, but without being aggressive. With his caregivers he is affectionate and loyal, while with strangers he will distance himself, as if they were of no interest to him. He can live with other dogs even though he is somewhat nervous, but to do this you have to work with him from a young age. It is best to mix him with as many dogs as possible when he is a puppy and this way he will learn to live with other dogs. His coexistence with children divides fans of the breed. This is because he gets very nervous, so you have to explain to the children how to play with him and tell them that he is not a toy. At the same time, the dog has to be well educated if we want it to be with the little ones in the house, preventing it from spending time with children it doesn't know, or at least not without supervision on our part. Care Although the Shiba Inu's hair is short, it will give us some work. You have to brush it a couple of times a week, a frequency that must be increased during the shedding season. It stains little, since it has hygiene habits very similar to those of cats.. He enjoys grooming himself and letting his owners comb his hair, so he is usually very clean. You don't have to wash it too much, as it has a very thick undercoat that has a natural oil. That fat is responsible for protecting it and if we wash it frequently it will disappear. For this reason, it is always recommended to use a dry shampoo unless it is very dirty, especially in winter with the idea that it does not remain wet for a long time. You need to exercise two or three times a day, but without forcing it. About 30 minutes each time will be more than enough, so you can live in an apartment without problems as long as we can go out to the park. We are facing a breed that is not a great athlete and given its size, Fits well in small homes. In all of them, regardless of size, toys must be made available to them with the idea that they bite them and relax. Food Feeding the Shiba Inu does not require any special needs. We can purchase feed for small or medium-sized breeds, but the truth is that it is not even necessary. As always, It is best to opt for quality food, which can be wet, natural or dry. The most comfortable is the last one, what we all know as I think. Here, you have to choose one that is premium, with natural ingredients, without coloring or preservatives. There are many brands on the market, so we will opt for one that has a good composition, with meat as the main ingredient. Better if you do not have cereals such as wheat, corn or soy. As long as there are no allergies or intolerances, the source of protein is indifferent to us. The most common thing is that feed uses chicken, but we already find lamb, beef, duck and even fish and without a single gram of meat. If we have doubts, it is best to consult with the breeder or veterinarian, as both professionals will be able to recommend feed with which the Shiba Inu will be in perfect condition. To finish this section, and given the type of undercoat it has, it may be a good idea to give it a supplement such as salmon or cod liver oil, although the truth is that feed usually comes with these supplements. Shiba Inu Health As with dogs of this type, with ancient origins and whose genetics have been little manipulated, the Shiba Inu is in very good health. Despite this, does not get rid of some problems such as allergies. He tends to be allergic to dust, pollen, plants and medications, so we will have to be careful in this regard. Hip dysplasia and patella dislocation are no strangers to him Although it is a small dog, the truth is that there are specimens that suffer from hip dysplasia. It is a hereditary disease that causes the head of the femur to not fit well in the socket of the hip. When animals suffer from it, they limp and experience pain, which can be eliminated with medication or surgery if the dysplasia is very severe. Patellar luxation is a disease associated with small breeds. The knee bone moves out of place and the dog becomes unable to walk. Fortunately, in small dogs the problem is usually solved without surgery. Suffer from some eye diseases Shiba Inu are prone to cataracts and also progressive retinal atrophy. This means that it will have to be taken for veterinary check-ups at least a couple of times a year, as this way we can anticipate the development of these diseases. In addition, they accumulate rheum in the tear duct. They must be removed, since they not only spoil the dog's expression, but can create a kind of amalgam with the rheum and hair, which will always be wet and will end up causing a wound next to the eye. Other dog breeds that may interest you: French Bulldog Maltese Bichon Andalusian winemaker Puggle Tibetan Spaniel Pomeranian miniature pinscher Scottish Terrier dachshund Norfolk Terrier Jack Russell Terrier yorkshire Chihuahua Corgi Westy
Lakeland Terrier

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Lakeland Terrier

by Lobo Azul in May 09 2023
The Lakeland Terrier is one of dozens of breeds native to the United Kingdom. and they belong to the group of terriers, where we have dogs of all sizes, colors and with the common denominator of having fought against wild animals. Weight: around 8 kilos hair type: medium length and very hard Character: affectionate and sociable, very active Health: very strong, although they can suffer from some genetic diseases Life expectancy: between 12 and 14 years Origins The origins are in the United Kingdom, specifically in the lake region, in an area very close to Scotland, where due to its mountainous terrain, fox hunting could not be hunted on horseback, but rather on foot. For this reason, it is said that the Lakeland Terrier is much more resistant than the Fox Terrier, with which it has a great resemblance, since while the former was carried in a bag on the horse, the Lakeland Terrier always ran on foot. There is already evidence of it from the beginning of the 18th century and it seems that it arose from a mix between the English Black and Tan and the Fell Terrier, breeds that are extinct today, something that has happened to many of the primitive terriers. A breed made to work This breed was created with the purpose of hunting vermin in areas with difficult access, something in which it stood out because it not only showed the hunter where the prey was located, but was also capable of killing them. His energy was such that he could eliminate even foxes, which gives us an idea of ​​the strength that the primitive lakeland had. Now it's not like that anymore and its appearance is due to several crosses with other terriers, such as the Fox Terrier, the Airedale Terrier, the Border Terrier and the Bedlington Terrier, the latter dog that may have provided such a graceful constitution to the breed in question. As for the recognition by the Kennel Club, it is quite old, since it was done in 1921, although the breed club differs and says that it was in 1928, something that is not important and shows that this dog has been recognized for a century now. Main features Among the terriers, the Lakeland is one of the medium-sized ones and has a very proportional appearance that gives a feeling of strength, but without looking like a rough animal. This gracefulness is provided by a skeleton of very fine and resistant bones, which provide the speed characteristic of the breed and its liveliness. They have an average height at the withers of about 35 cm and their weight usually does not exceed 8 kilos., which helps make it look like a dog that is made to run. Its head and jaw give it a very characteristic appearance. The first is rectangular, while the second is almost as long as the skull and looks very strong as it really is, since this animal has a good bite. As for the coat, a large number of colors are allowed, such as black and tan, blue and tan, red, bluish, fawn, reddish, etc. The layer is double, the first one very dense, close to the body to give it warmth and insulate it from the elements. On the contrary, the second is hard in order to protect it from attacks by vermin, branches or spikes. The way it looks in the exhibitions is real, but If we want it to look the same at home, we have to go to the hairdresser from time to time., since you have to trim the hair in several areas and leave more of it above the eyes. Character They have a fun character, very friendly and quite mischievous. That is with their owners and acquaintances, since with strangers and other animals it changes completely, so it is important to carry out early socialization, which will avoid problems later. No wonder he is aggressive towards dogs., so we will have to be careful with the walks and what other animals we bring him together with. The same happens with other pets, since we must not forget that it is a hunting dog that was responsible for killing vermin. It is good with children, but it is better not to leave it with the little ones in the house. He is not very patient, and will not tolerate being hit, having his ears pulled, etc. They are barking dogs and that makes them excellent guards, although they will not limit themselves to barking, but will not hesitate to attack that person or animal that tries to enter their home. Another of its peculiarities is that they love to explore and access everywhere. Therefore, if we want them to not enter an area, we will have to close it well, because they will try to sneak into it. Care Unlike other dogs, the Lakeland You don't have any special needs when it comes to keeping your hair in perfect condition.. In fact, brushing it once or twice a week will be more than enough. Due to the type of hair that dirt has, it does not usually stick to it, so baths can be spaced out a lot in time, shortening the periods between each one of them if we have it inside the house and it starts to smell. Yes, you will need physical activity. In fact, whenever we can, each of the walks has to last more than half an hour, and if there are small animals like cats, it is better that they be on a leash, since their hunting instinct will not take long to come to light. The eyes and ears do require a little more attention and It is advisable that we clean them often with gauze and physiological saline., thus avoiding infections that are more common if the dog goes for a walk in the countryside. Food He has no special feeding needs and we can give him any feed for small breeds, finding many high quality brands on the market. This type of feed brings a croquette adapted to the mouths of these breeds, although the truth is that with the strength that the lakeland has in its jaw, it can handle any type of feed that we put in it. There are some brands that have presentations for the Fox Terrier. If we want we can give it to them, since it is very similar to this breed, but it is not necessary to be so specific. Yes, we have to look carefully at the quantities, not because we are going to gain weight, but so that we don't end up too thin. For this reason, we will always give him the amount intended for active dogs, exceeding it if we go out with him a lot for walks in the countryside and he can run freely. We can talk about this with the veterinarian, although we see if the weight is good or if it is a little short of reaching what is ideal. Health Like any terrier, Lakeland dogs have excellent health. Despite this, they are not free from certain genetic pathologies and perhaps one of the weakest parts of the breed are the eyes. Therefore, we commented that they had to be cleaned often. Among the eye diseases to which the breed is prone are lens dislocation, cataracts or glaucoma.. Therefore, it is advisable to have your veterinarian check your eyes at least twice a year. The bones are not spared either. some diseases such as patella dislocation, which causes pain and lameness, and can be treated in various ways and may require surgery in the most serious cases. There is another bone pathology known as Legg-Calvé-Perthes disease. This causes the part of the femur that is housed in the dog's hip to degenerate very quickly, which is due to the fact that the blood does not reach it well. There are no other notable diseases and although they may seem like too many, the truth is that the Lakeland is one of the strongest dogs we can find.   Adopt In Spain it is difficult to adopt a lakeland, since they are not abundant unlike other similar terriers such as the fox terrier, of which there are many specimens that are used mainly in hunting. In any case, we can do a search on the internet. There are specialized search engines that track dogs in Spain and also associations dedicated to finding adopters for terriers. We can turn to them, since they are the ones who can best help us when adopting an animal of this breed. In fact, they will know if it is common to see Lakeland animals for adoption or if it is a mission impossible in our country. If we do not find any in Spain, which will almost certainly happen, it is best to go to the United Kingdom, where there will be copies available. The Internet has made everything easier, so from home we can search for shelters in that country and get in touch with them, being able to propose a remote adoption if possible, something that is feasible due to logistics. There are companies specialized in transporting pets, and if we can't find any or they don't want to send it we can always go pick it up, in which case we will have to find out about the regulations for transporting animals now that the United Kingdom is no longer part of the EU due to Brexit. We have the possibility of flying to the United Kingdom for very little money, and Since Lakeland has a small dog, they may allow us to bring it in the cabin.. Other dog breeds that may interest you: Australian Terrier Welsh Terrier yorkshire Czech Terrier Scottish Terrier Jack Russell Terrier Boston Terrier bull terrier
Bichón Boloñés - Un perro con una mirada que cautiva

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Bichon Bolognese - A dog with a captivating look

by Lobo Azul in Apr 18 2023
The Bolognese is one of those dog breeds that dazzles us when we see it, since his white fur is spectacular and he has a captivating look, the kind that tells us that we are looking at a very alert dog. Weight: about 5 kilos hair type: with wool-like texture and curly Character: intelligent and very sociable, but distrustful of strangers Health: very good, although with some genetic diseases Life expectancy: between 12 and 14 years Origins Although it is one of the dog breeds that was recognized late, the FCI did not do it until 1989, the truth is that its history is much older. Animals of a similar typology are already known in Roman times, and it seems that Aristotle already referred to them as “melitense dogs”, a name that was used when defining companion dogs in ancient times. As always happens, these ancient origins are not very clear, since there is no reliable way to verify that this is the case, but there is now less doubt that The Bolognese bichon, or very similar dogs, were highly valued in the European courts of the 11th century.. Later, in the 15th and 16th centuries, the popularity of these dogs continued at its peak, and in fact even Philip II thanked the Duke of Este for giving him two of them. We can see it in paintings from the Renaissance In this era of the Renaissance there is already evidence that a dog like this bichon existed, as it appears in some paintings by Titian, and the same in later centuries, since Goya painted it in the portrait of “The Duchess of Alba in White”. A white dog very similar to the Bolognese bichon appears to the right of the duchess (on the left according to our perspective) with a red bow on one paw. He is not the only famous person who had one of these white-furred dogs, but others such as Catherine the Great of Russia also owned some specimens of the breed. Despite the popularity that this dog has had for centuries, after the Great War it was on the brink of disappearance. So much so, that if it were not for a group of Italian breeders, the Bolognese Bichon would have disappeared, this being the reason for its inclusion as a breed at such a late time. Main features Its main characteristic, and What distinguishes it from other breeds of companion dogs is its white coat., very compact and is the result of selection, since it was originally brown. Right now, the standard only accepts the color white. It has a single coat, without undercoat and is very curly, with a very soft texture to the touch that reminds us of wool when we touch it, which gives a very pleasant sensation and makes it look cottony or like a cloud. His hair falls out like all dogs, even though they put him on lists where they say he doesn't lose hair. It is true that it loses less than other breeds, since its growth cycle is very slow. The height does not usually exceed a maximum of 30 cm nor the weight of 4 or 5 kilos., although there are specimens that can weigh around 2 kg, from which it is better to avoid, as they are a sure source of health problems in the medium term. Their black eyes stand out, very bulging, especially with that immaculate white coat, creating a contrast along with the nose that makes them even more striking, which is pink when they are born and darkens around three months of age. Character of the Bichon Bolognese It is a family dog and one of the best for people without experience, since due to its size it is easy to handle, being very attached to its owner and those who live with it. He loves to be with his master and does not like to be separated from him, so perhaps he is not the best dog if we are not always going to be at home, since he will not be happy if we are separated from him for many hours a day. In fact, those who live with the breed say that it is a bit heavy because it is always looking for the cuddles of its owner with whom it tries to sleep in the bed, get on the couch with it, etc., so we may have to set some limits for it. Due to this character, he can live with other dogs, as long as they are not aggressive, and It is an ideal breed when it comes to living with other pets., as is the case with most bichons. Intelligent and good guardian despite his size Another characteristic of its character is intelligence, so this, added to the fact that it always wants to please its owner, makes training it very simple, and hence it is a breed recommended for novices. This intelligence is one of the “dangers” of the breed, since if we do not show him that we are the leader (which is not complicated with these dogs) he will soon discover our weak points and will use them when he sees fit. With strangers, the character of the Bolognese changes completely. He is usually reserved and distrustful to such an extent that it is said of him that He is a good watchdog, not because of his size or because he is intimidating, but because he barks immediately. and alerts us to the presence of intruders. Care of the Bichon Bolognese Your cotton cloud or teddy bear appearance has a price to pay and that is the work we are going to have to do in order to always keep your hair in perfect condition. For this you will have to brush it daily with a suitable comb, which can be made of quite open metal spikes, always designed for soft hair and in which we will have to invest some money in order for it to be of quality, since we are going to be using it every day of our dog's life. It is important not to neglect brushing, since if we do so the hair will become a tangle of knots that are impossible to untangle, something that will lead to having to shave it and strip it of its essence. You will also have to visit the hairdresser several times a year and there we should ask for a good shampoo, since many of the ones on the market (especially the cheapest ones) can turn your hair yellow, which is a shame. As for exercise, like all dogs, He needs to go outside several times a day, but he is not going to ask us to be outside for hours nor is he a dog to play sports with.. In fact, it is an ideal breed for older people, who walk at a gentle pace every day. Finishing this section, we must keep in mind that it is not a dog that can be alone. It's okay if one day we have to go away and leave it at home, but if we are away a lot, we will have to look for a more independent breed. Food You have to be careful when feeding the Bolognese Bichon, since we tend to give it everything we eat and that makes it gain weight, something we should avoid. The best way to get the right feed is to ask the breeder who sells us the dog, who will know the breed well and will be able to make a recommendation based on his years of experience feeding them. In any case, it is enough to buy a good quality feed, with natural ingredients and without preservatives or colorings, which we will find in any specialized store or veterinary clinics. It is very important that in this case the feed does not have artificial coloring, since otherwise it is possible that the white hair will begin to turn yellow., which can also happen with quality ones if they contain corn or carrots. The food must have a small kibble, adapted to its mouth, and in the end the choice is made by trial and error, trying several brands until we find the one that best suits our bichon. Bichon Bolognese Health Here there is a drawback that has to do with the almost disappearance of the breed, and that is that the breeders had to recover it with what they had, which meant many problems derived from inbreeding. In fact, any breeder who has been with the Bolognese Bichon for years can tell us that they have been working to improve aspects such as the longevity of the breed, which was not the best, although that has now been overcome. Among hereditary diseases we can name patella dislocation and eye problems such as retinal atrophy., both very common in bichons and here perhaps a little more frequent due to the problems that we have mentioned before. They also have another disease called white dog shaker syndrome. This consists of a tremor that is annoying, but does not harm the animal's health and seems to have something to do with stressful situations. Obesity is another pathology that has more to do with us than with the dog, since with these breeds there is always a tendency to give it whims and extra foods that should not be included in its diet, although luckily it is easy to tackle. If we see that he is gaining weight, it is best to talk to the vet and use a light feed., always avoiding giving him whims that do him no good. Other dog breeds that may interest you: maltese bichon Havanese bichon frize Pug Pomeranian yorkshire pinscher dachshund
Cockapoo - Descubre este curioso hibrido

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Cockapoo - Discover this curious hybrid

by Lobo Azul in Apr 11 2023
The hundreds of dog breeds that exist today have not appeared by magic, but rather the hand of man has had a lot to do with it, as has happened in the case of the cockapoo, a hybrid between an English cocker spaniel and a standard poodle.. Weight: a maximum of 10 kilos, although it varies greatly between specimens hair type: long, curly and fine Character: It is a sociable, balanced, affectionate and very docile dog. Health: average, with several hereditary diseases Life expectancy: around 15 years Origins of the Cockapoo Although there is no exhaustive documentation on this hybrid breed, we do know that the first puppy emerged in the United States in the 1950s, where this toy-type dog soon became popular. These puppies attracted attention, so the breed spread throughout the world, but right now it is not too popular outside the country in which it was born. In fact, Although it emerged around 70 years ago, it still does not have the recognition of the International Canine Federation, which speaks of a mixed race and there is no standard. That means that if we cross a cocker spaniel and a poodle standard size (the least popular of the three types of poodle) we will obtain cockapoo puppies, something that is not recommended due to all the diseases they suffer from. Features If we intend to buy an animal of this hybrid breed, we must assume that a puppy may not look like its littermate, since as a breed without a standard the characteristics of each specimen differ greatly. The size is medium, but the weight varies between 5 and 10 kilos.s, while the difference in height between the specimens is such that we could think that they do not belong to the same race, since it ranges from 25 to 40 cm. Its external appearance is also very different. There are dogs that look like poodles, others that are similar to cockers, and the most “mixed” ones, which have characteristics of both breeds. Most cockapoos are medium-sized, have long, drooping ears like cockers, and have long, curly hair., very similar to that of poodles. Curiously, they lose very little hair. The same thing happens with the tone of his coat as with his appearance. There are many colors and all are accepted as long as they are present in the cocker or poodle, with white, gray, chocolate coats, or half and half mixes such as black and white. Cokapoo Character Character is one of the advantages of the cockapoo, since there are very few dogs that are similar to it in this aspect. In fact, here we can say that the mix has been a success. They are very affectionate and sociable animals, with above-average intelligence.. They love being with people and are very balanced, which is not always a characteristic of many breeds. This balance has made the breed one of the favorites when it comes to working as an assistance or therapy dog, a job for which few dogs are suitable. They do not stop expressing love to their loved ones and establish very strong bonds. In fact, they follow their owners around the house, sit on them and are always asking for attention, something they also do with dogs and other pets at home. Therefore, They will coexist very well with cats, because they will be playful and attentive with them, without any aggression. This has a negative part and that is that they cannot be alone. Needing constant attention, when they are alone daily or for many hours, they develop anxiety and depression. In fact, in this case it is not uncommon for it to become aggressive or cause damage inside the house, such as torn cushions, eaten chair legs, etc. His hunting instinct and barking are the worst of his character These are ideal dogs for beginners, but their toy appearance (especially in the smaller specimens) should not deceive us, because when buying one we must remember that it comes from two breeds that have been used in hunting for centuries. From a puppy you have to control your hunting instinct. Otherwise, it will be difficult for him to always obey the call, as he will get lost following trails or following wild animals. Barking can also be a problem, something that must be controlled from a very young age, since they tend to bark very loudly and constantly.  Care The hair is what is going to give us the most work, since we are going to have to brush it daily, otherwise this breed will become full of knots and tangles that will be impossible to eliminate, forcing us to go to the hairdresser. Anyway, we'll have to go, especially if the cockapoo's hair looks like the poodle's, because it doesn't fall out or barely does. That means they will have to be cut several times a year. The ears also need some attention. Since they are drooping like those of the cocker spaniel, they do not ventilate well. They accumulate dirt and that is why if they are not cleaned frequently they can develop otitis. Furthermore, since they have hair on the inside, when we go out to the field or the street, all kinds of objects get caught on them, so it is always a good idea to cut this inner hair. We can do it ourselves or ask the dog groomer. Leaving aside the hair issue, This hybrid breed needs exercise to be happy and in order to be calm at home., because he has a lot of energy and will always ask us to play. He loves walks in the countryside, where he will sniff everywhere looking for other animals, so he is a good hiking companion or can even accompany us on short bike rides. The ball will become one of their favorite toys and there are those who recommend signing them up for a tracking course, since they have a good sense of smell and this way we can keep their mind busy while having fun with them. Cokapoo Feeding In specialized stores we find specific feed for poodles and others for cocker spaniels. Which one should we give them? We can choose any of them, but the truth is that it is not necessary to provide them with feed of this type. Just look for a feed intended for mini dogs, the cockapoo is one because of its weight.Please note that this dog has a small mouth and discreetly sized teeth. Of course, the I think that what we choose must be of quality, nothing of the typical supermarket feed on sale, as it will only cause your health to suffer in the medium and long term. There are a large number of brands that we can give them, always ensuring that they do not contain artificial additives and do not contain grains, which will help these dogs not gain weight. They have a tendency to be overweight and we tackle that with a good diet and regular exercise.  Health Health is perhaps the weak point of the breed, since despite what is often believed, hybrid breeds like this are not the ones with the best health. In fact, the opposite happens, since there is no decades-long work by breeders in order to eliminate these pathologies, although we must also say that it is not the breed of this type that presents the most diseases. Otitis One of the The most common diseases in these dogs is otitis, since their ears hardly receive ventilation. In addition, they usually carry spikes, spikes and all kinds of elements that end up inside the ears. Therefore, It is advisable to check them often and go to the vet if we notice that they smell bad., the dog scratches, shakes its head or walks with it tilted. Patellar dislocation This is one of the diseases that have been inherited from cockers and that occurs when the knee bone moves, in this case without any trauma, but due to genetic causes. There are various degrees and sometimes the only solution is for the cockapoo to undergo surgery, in an intervention that is usually expensive. progressive retinal atrophy It is also a genetic disease, which in this case comes from the poodle. It is degenerative, meaning that the dog's blindness is inevitable. Diagnosed early on, you have to go to the vet once every six months for check-ups, it can be treated in order to delay blindness. The time that the end of the disease can be delayed depends on when it appears. If you do it when the cockapoo is very young, the atrophy will progress very quickly, making it very difficult to slow it down and causing the dog to stop seeing in a short time. Other dog breeds that may interest you: Cavapoo Bichon Frize Puggle Pomeranian pinscher malshi schnoodle Teckandl Jack Russell Terrier yorkshire Chihuahua Westy Boston Terriandr Pug French Bulldog
Bichón Frisé - uno de los mejores perros de compañía

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Bichon Frize - one of the best companion dogs

by Lobo Azul in Mar 21 2023
The Bichon Frize is one of the best companion dogs that exist., despite which they are now not among the most popular breeds and it is rare to see them on our streets, which is a shame. Weight: between 3 and 7 kilos hair type: long, fine and curly Character: affectionate and very sociable Health: normal, but with several problems associated with its size and breed Life expectancy: between 12 and 14 years Origins The origins of the bichon dog breed are in Europe and there is a division of opinions among fans, as some say that it is French and others that it is Spanish. It is known that dogs of this bichon type have been around the Mediterranean area for many centuries and that this breed may come from a crossbreed. water dogs from centuries ago with white pets. In the 16th century the breed was known as the Bichon de Tenerife., whose name comes from the fact that it was developed on the island, where it arrived at the hands of Spanish sailors starting in the 12th century. Already in the Renaissance, this Tenerife Bichon was a court dog, being very abundant in Spain and Italy. In fact, the breed appears in several Renaissance paintings and also in those of Goya centuries later. It didn't take long for it to become popular in France, where Marie Antoinette was one of the most famous owners of this Bichon, falling into oblivion later and remaining like a stray dog. When it was on the streets it attracted attention because it was very pretty, so people collected it, until in 1930 the breeders in France got to work and hence it is said that the Bichon Frize has its origins in this country. At the end of the Second World War its population was very low, but the breed was able to be saved thanks to the fact that in the 1950s it was taken to the United States, where the American Kennel Club* did excellent work. Now it is known all over the world, but it is not one of the most popular breeds, although being out of fashion is not always a negative thing. Main features In the Bichon Frize dog breed, the first characteristic that stands out is its hair, long and silky in the shape of a ringlet, creating the curls that give the breed an unmistakable appearance. It is up to 10 cm in length and must always be pure white, as it is the only color currently accepted by the FCI*. We are looking at a small dog, less than 30 cm and its weight is very contained.. The standard does not say anything about the minimum or maximum weight, but the average is five kilos, not exceeding seven or eight. The tail is striking, which is raised and folded in a rather funny gesture, which combines very well with the expression on his face. When he looks at us he always seems alert, as if he were waiting for something. Their look is not coincidental, since they are one of the easiest breeds to train due to the great intelligence they possess. Character of the Bichon Frize The Bichon Frize has what we can call an ideal character to be a companion dog. He is very happy and playful, but he is not nervous like other small dogs, since he is also very affectionate and sensitive towards his owners. Furthermore, Even though he is small, he loves to exercise, making him a good dog for people who like to walk or even take small hiking routes. When he is at home he is not heavy and he loves to rest on the sofa or in bed with his owners, whom he always looks for in order to have their company, so he is not a dog to be left alone in a garden unless he has a canine companion. They tend to be sociable animals with strangers, dogs and other pets. This makes them ideal for those who have cats, with whom they will get along very well from day one. The same goes for children. They will play with them without ever showing aggression, which is not always possible in small dogs, many of which quickly show their teeth if the children in the house tire them out. Despite their character, it is best to socialize them well from the time they are puppies. This prevents them from being shy when they are adults, which leads to them being aggressive out of fear even towards their owners. Care Whether we are going to adopt a dog of this breed or buy one, The first thing we need to know is that hair takes a lot of work and tends to form knots., which means you have to comb it every day. In our hairdressing bag we should always have a soft comb and a card. With the comb we brush it along the hair (so we don't tangle it or break it) while the card will be very good when it comes to removing the knots. Even though we comb it often, it is best to take it to the hairdresser at least once every three months, where they can bathe it and leave it looking impeccable. Not only will we dedicate ourselves to combing his hair, but we will have to take him outside a couple of times, preferably three, so that he can exercise. He is not an athlete, but he needs to run, fetch the ball and play with other dogs. As a companion dog, he adapts very well to small apartments as long as he is accompanied. Can't stand loneliness, so if you are going to spend a lot of time alone because we are away from home most of the day, the Bichon Frize is not a breed that we should consider. Feeding the Bichon Frize He has normal feeding needs, but you do have to give him quality food for dogs of this size, with a kibble adapted to his mouth, which is made up of very small teeth. Due to their tendency to gain weight, like most small breed dogs, we can opt for what is called a “grain free” feed, since it will possibly do better than one that contains wheat, rice or corn. We must be careful with the quantities we give, always paying attention to the manufacturer and the veterinarian, who will be the one to tell us if we are overdoing the ration or falling short, although we can see that with the naked eye. Health There are several health problems that the Bichon Frize dog suffers from. Some are specific to the breed, genetic, and others come due to the size it has and are common in breeds like these. Bladder stones This disease is always associated with small breed dogs.. Because they do not have intense physical activity, they drink little water, so in the end they accumulate stones in the urine that are deposited in the bladder. They can be eliminated with a specific wet diet as long as they are caught in time, since if the stones have reached the bladder it is best to operate. Dental problems The Bichon Frize has crowded teeth, as occurs with other small breeds. There is not much space between the teeth, so infections are common if we do not clean the teeth frequently. We can also go to the veterinarian, who can carry out a thorough cleaning if necessary (for this the dog must be put to sleep). Juvenile cataracts Here we talk about a genetic disease that can lead the dog to lose its sight.. Cataracts usually appear in elderly animals, but in this case they are seen in specimens that are not yet adults. Patellar dislocation Patellar dislocation causes the kneecap to move out of place, something operable, although an attempt is always made to solve it through less invasive means such as chondroprotectors and rehabilitation. It is another of the hereditary diseases of the breed, although it can also be caused by a blow or excessive exercise with which care must be taken, especially in juvenile specimens. When this disease appears, responsible breeders remove them from breeding, as their descendants will almost certainly have this problem. Idiopathic epilepsy This type of epilepsy occurs in all breeds and in the Bichon it has a higher incidence than in others. The origin is not known (hence its name) and appears when the dog is very young, before three years. Luckily, medications have already been developed that help the animal have a very good quality of life. Other dog breeds that may interest you: maltese bichon Havanese yorkshire Pomeranian Chihuahua miniature pinscher dachshund or sausage dog Jack Russell Terrier poodle Westy Pug French Bulldog Boston Terrier References: (*)https://www.fci.be/es/nomenclature/BICHON-DE-PELO-RIZADO-215.html (*)https://www.akc.org/dog-breeds/bichon-frise/  
Puggle - Descubre sus características, salud y temperamento

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Puggle - Discover its characteristics, health and temperament

by Lobo Azul in Feb 14 2023
In recent years, and in case there weren't already enough dog breeds, It has become fashionable to create new ones by hybridizing two existing ones, as is the case of the puggle., which is already registered in some organizations in the United States. Size: from 20 to 38 cm Weight: between 7 and 14 kilos hair type: short and smooth Character: affectionate and intelligent. Very balanced Health: good, but prone to some diseases Life expectancy: from 12 to 15 years Origins of the Puggle Although it is a very recent breed, the truth is that we do not have much data on the creation of the puggle, although we do know that The first record dates back to 1980, when Wallace Havens baptized the breed. This occurred in Wisconsin, in the United States. This country is usually the cradle of these latest experiments with breeds with an uncertain future, since they do not have a standard and the FCI It does not usually recognize them nor do we believe it will do so in the medium term. To obtain the breed (we will refer to the puggle in this way, although it is not) They were used in beagle and pug. Due to their difference in sizes, and in order to make delivery simple, the female is a beagle and the male a pug, otherwise the female pug would have a very difficult time giving birth. Puggle Features It is a small dog, which in this aspect is more similar to the pug than the beagle and whose size ranges from 20 to 38 cm, with a weight of between 7 to 14 kilos. As we see, The size and weight data are variable and this depends on which genetics predominate, whether the beagle or the pug., so the puggle can resemble any of them. Of course, the body is almost always that of the pug, very small, compact and with very short legs, with a snout that is either short or elongated, again depending on which of the two breeds it most resembles. The hair is short and straight, dense, with black, lemon and white tones, brown with fawn, etc., although any mix is allowed when dealing with a mixed animal and being a puggle, a cross made between a beagle and a pug, whatever the result. Its appearance is very similar to that of the small street dogs that have always existed in the towns of Spain, especially if the snout is more similar to that of a beagle than that of a pug. When he has the pug's snout, the appearance is somewhat comical, especially the expression, since it seems that that face does not match that body. Puggle Character If there is something good about the puggle, it is its character, being a very affectionate and sociable animal., so it is suitable as a first dog, even if you do not have experience, as it will be a good school for any owner. He can live with both adults and children, although he must always be accompanied, since he is very attached to his owners and does not tolerate loneliness well, at which time the dreaded separation anxiety may appear. A trait that defines its character is adaptability, since it is not a demanding dog in this aspect. This means that you will live just as well with an elderly person in a small apartment in the city center as in a country house with many children. He only needs affection to be happy and some exercise, which does not have to be very intense, which the puggle is not going to ask of us either, since several daily walks in the park are enough for him. The only drawback that can be made is that he tends to bark excessively., something that will have to be worked on if we live in a building with neighbors, who will soon complain about this aspect.   Puggle Education Puggle education should always be positive, as it makes no sense to use harsh methods or be very firm with such a small dog, although we must avoid overprotecting them. It is a sensitive animal that immediately seems afraid or starts crying., something that should not make us over-indulge him, and we will scold him when he touches like any other dog. Its training is not complicated, since it is a very sociable animal and attached to its owner, in addition to being very smart. Thanks to this character, it will not be difficult for us to teach him basic obedience, things like coming to the call, sitting, lying down, staying still, etc. We may have problems when training him so that he does not bark, so it is advisable to work with him from a very young age, giving him treats when he stops if we ask him to. Here you will have to be patient, since It is difficult to lower the level of barking to an acceptable level.. In any case, if we see that from a very young age he is already out of control in this aspect, we can turn to a professional trainer. By working as the professional tells us and using some tricks, we will get him to bark less, which is important if we live in a flat or apartment and even less so if we live in a house in the country or in the town. Puggle Health Mixed-breed dogs always have better health than pure breeds due to genetics, but when two breeds are mixed, as has been done to create the puggle, there is a risk that the result will be prone to inheriting the diseases of each of their parents. That happens in the puggle, which often suffers from skin diseases such as allergies, dermatitis or fungi, so you will have to check your skin often and go to the vet if you have any symptoms, because if it is detected early it is easier to stop the problem. Otitis and conjunctivitis (the latter coming from the pug) are not rare, although they can be prevented if we clean both the ears and the eyes, checking the inside of the ears daily and notifying the veterinarian if we notice that the eyes are very red or watering more than normal. If it has the head of the pug, it may suffer alterations that brachycephalic specimens have, such as asthma or various respiratory system problems. All these diseases should not scare us, since puggles are prone to them, but this does not mean that they will suffer from them all. Furthermore, it has less chance of passing through them than pug or the beagle, and some like the conjunctivitis or allergies are normal in many dogs. In fact, with proper veterinary care, the same as that given to other breeds, it is not uncommon for them to reach 15 years of age, something that few dogs can say. Puggle Care All puggle care is quite simple, starting with the coat, which will be in very good condition with weekly brushing, without requiring further attention. Like any small dog, and in order to avoid digestive problems, It is best to give him quality feed. and specific for these animals, with the small kibble, which makes it easier for them to chew and digest it. Before we said that he was prone to conjunctivitis and otitis, some of which can be prevented by cleaning his eyes and ears, inside, with saline solution several times a week, or with specific products sold for this purpose. Lastly, It is not a dog that can be alone for a long time., otherwise he will have anxiety, so we must ensure that he spends as much time as possible with him, as he is not the ideal dog for those people who are away from home all day. Adopt a Puggle The puggle is another of those breeds that is very complicated to adopt, since there are few around the world and it is possible that in Spain there is none. Yes, it will be easier to adopt a pug and especially a beagle, a larger breed that is more often abandoned or left in shelters, especially those that come from hunters. In the event that we decide on a pug, we must know that they are delicate animals, so it is advisable to always have money reserved to be able to take it to the vet with peace of mind. Other small dog breeds that may interest you: Tibetan Spaniel Pomeranian Miniature Pincher schnoodle dachshund or sausage dog Jack Russell Terrier poodle Chihuahua Maltese Bichon yorkshire French Bulldog Boston Terrier Andalusian winemaker