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Terrier Dogs

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Some Terrier Dogs That You Would Find Interesting

The personality of a lively child put into dog- this might be a good way of
describing the general personality of terriers. But as it appears, that still
would not justify their temperaments.

These dogs came from the British Isles where they were first oriented to
hunting fox, rat, otter and the likes over and under the ground. And as its
name suggests, "terrier" came from the word "terra" which means, "earth".

While terriers may be identified through their prominent physical
characteristics, they are still divided into various breeds that separate one
kind from another.

The following are the subgroups of the terrier breed:

Show Terriers - These are basically bred as small dogs and are used for show
rings.

Bull and Terrier Types - these came from breeding between bull dogs and
terriers. Only in the last quarter of 1800's did the breeders separate a number
of bull dogs from terrier types for distinction.

Hunting and Working Terriers - The breed that was primarily bred for hunting.

Toy Terriers - These are the smaller versions of terriers, which are basically
categorized into the companion breed.

To help you understand the various natures of terrier dogs, we have prepared
some dog profiles here, please read on.

Airedale Terrier - This is known to be the largest dog in the Terrier breed.
Standing an average of 23 inches from the shoulder, this dog shows off both
beauty and elegance that make them fit for both dog obedience trials and show
rings.

A cross-breed between Otterhound and Black and Tan Terrier, Airedale possess
good skill in scent and superb swimming prowess.

Australian Terrier - Probably one of the dog types that have gotten to so many
out-crossings with other dog breeds. A cross breed between the forerunner of
Dandie Dinmont and rough coated terrier is said to have been migrated into
England. The offspring of which was taken to Australia. With the scarcity of
dog breeds in this land, many dogs had been crossbred into it which later
resulted to a small type having the characteristics of terriers while being a
good watchdog and ratter. It stands 10 to 11 inches with a life expectancy of
12 to 14 years.

Border Terrier - A True-blue working terrier, this dog is marked by its medium
built while proving to work far better than what its appearance may give.
Border Terriers are agile and alert while having the capacity to fit into
narrow gaps especially during hunting.

Aside from its being affectionate and good adaptation to training, Border
terriers can also make good family pets.

Bull Terrier - Originally bred for dog fighting and bull baiting, this dog is
known to have been well-accustomed to courage and good resistance to pain.
However, when the bloody dog fights were banned in England during the 1800's,
most breeders turned to breeding milder dogs.

Bull Terriers came from these fighting dogs combined with Dalmatian and English
Terrier to produce all-white specie. This new breed though is very much reserved
from starting fights which gave them the nickname "White Cavalier".

There are of course a variety of other terrier species. Initially, you might
find them interesting enough to catch your attention but a closer look would
lead you to further knowing them. Who knows, you might find your ideal type of
dog in this breed.

A Glimpse on the Various Types of Terrier Dogs

Whatever your dog preference is, you are sure to find terrier dogs among the
candidates for a pal. You'll get energy you want with little grooming and added
wit.

Basically bred for hunting and killing vermin, Terrier dogs are now known to
offer wide spectrum of features and characters that you might find lovable.
They are not as cuddly as toy dogs (while there are some terrier dogs in the
toy and companion dog brackets) and they may not be as intelligent like other
breeds but they set off these lacks with various things that only they can
offer.

Let us discuss in brief some of the terrier dog types that you may find
interesting:

Less aggressive but definitely not timid. This best describes Soft Coated
Wheaten Terriers. They are definitely alert and very spirited, but when the
call for steadiness arrives, they are sure to show you some air of confidence
and steady disposition.

This dog type too is gifted with intelligence which makes them very responsive
with obedience training.

Parson Russell Terrier is a dog type that exhibits boldness, cleverness,
affection and exuberant disposition. While many may find this a playful pal, it
is still not advisable for everyone to take Parson Russell home. In fact, formal
obedience training is a must for owners since this dog type is more likely to
display mischievousness and too much playfulness that make this a very
independent pet. For people with active lifestyles and those who can tolerate
explorative disposition, this scamp is the best for you.

The Norwich Terrier, on the other hand, is a type of dog that resulted from
breeding small Terriers with other smaller breeds, possibly Yorkshire Terriers.
Maintenance of Norwich Terrier is minimal and they are content with modest
living quarters. They have active disposition though and can be affectionate
and fearless. Additionally, they are also known to display stocky and happy
personalities which make them ideal pals.

Much like the Norwich Terriers, Norfolk Terriers are also well-spirited,
fearless, charming and always ready for game. While both may have some similar
physical characteristics, Norfolks can still be distinguished through their
folds in the ears.

Basically workman-like dogs, Kerry Blue Terriers are excellent watchdogs and
work well in farm settings. This dog got its name from its blue-shade coat
color which was originally black during puppyhood.

Wire Fox Terriers are of great interest since they display power through its
excellent endurance capabilities and speed. Alertness and quick movements are
the dominant expressions of this dog type. It is advisable though that the
owner trains this dog and should be given enough doses of daily exercises.

Meanwhile, Smooth Fox Terriers are the frolic and lively types of dogs that are
ideal in both country and city living. Displaying intelligence and cleverness,
this dog makes good trainees and must be well credited by that. They are also
likely to show great affection towards their owners.

These are just some of the many terrier dog types that can be considered as
your next pets. In general, this dog type has good dispositions and makes ideal
home pets. While some may display obscure aggressiveness, this still does not
negate the fact that most types have the capacity to develop affection and keen
expression of their attachment to their owners. Be warned though that some dog
types in this breed can be very playful and should be given enough amount of
attention and time during obedience training and exercises.

The Popular Pet and Lap Dog: Yorkshire Terrier

The Yorkshire terriers, or Yorkies, originated from Scotland but bred in
England. They were molded to hunt rats, but nowadays they are popular as pets.
In fact, their variety was one of the Top Dog Breeds of 2005.

They usually grow being small and light varieties. Hence, owners do not mind
having their pets on their lap almost all day. Moreover, this usual bonding
activity usually transforms this lap dog into a bright, playful, and loyal
companion pet.

The following are some of the basic facts breeders would really love to know 
about Yorkies:

Category: Toy (Terrier)

Living Environment: indoors (highly recommended); outdoors (fenced yard)

Coat: silky, glossy, long and fine; no undercoat 

Colors: black when young but they attain the colors tan and blue as they 
        mature

Height: between 8 and 9 inches 

Weight:  between 3 and 7 pounds

Temperament: 

Naturally, 

*  they are territorial and like their privacy to be respected
*  they are intelligent and fearless 
*  they are assertive and independent

When properly trained,

*  they develop close affinity with older children
*  they become really playful and lively
*  they become extremely affectionate
*  they do not mind having other pets at home
*  they focus much of their attention and affection toward their owner

Breeders should note of the following health issues: 

*  Alopecia, or losing hair 
*  Cataract, or loss of transparency of one or both lenses of the eyes 
*  Cryptorchidism, wherein testicles do not descend into the scrotum
*  Dwarfism 
*  Entropion, a disorder with the eyelid; lashes on the eyelid that irritate 
   the eyeballs could lead to other complications 
*  Glaucoma, a condition that causes an increase pressure within the eye
*  Hydrocephalus 
*  Keratoconjunctivitis sicca, or the reduction of tear production 
*  Low blood sugar 
*  Patellar luxation, a disorder in the kneecap
*  Portosystemic shunt, or the accumulation of blood toxins in the liver
*  Urolithiasis, an infection of the urinary tract leading to the formation 
   of bladder stones. 

Care and Exercise: 

*  They require daily grooming.
*  Ears and eyes must be cleaned and checked regularly.
*  Dental hygiene must be regularly maintained.
*  They are fit only for short strides.
*  They should have a regular play time while lying under the sunbeams, chasing 
   shadows, and joining tug-of-war.

Origin/History:

In the 19th century, a number of weavers from Scotland migrated to England and
brought with them different terriers that were bred to hunt rats. Through time,
these terriers were crossed and terriers with "broken hairs" were produced.

In 1870, a "broken-haired Scotch terrier" was named as a Yorkshire terrier by a
reporter. He argued that the breed should be called as such because his types
were bred in a town called Yorkshire.

Though the Yorkies were originally bred as working dogs, they became
fashionable pets is England in the latter part of the Victorian era. In 1972,
Yorkies were brought to the United States and became the country's favorite pet.

You can say that the Yorkies developed into tough breeds because of their
ancestors' reputation as rat-hunters. However, their size, and playful and
bright character have actually captured the attention and affection of most pet
owners. Most proud owners would boast that they have the great giants inside the
bodies of these little dogs. If you want a small but terrible breed of dog, grab
a Yorkie now! Just a friendly reminder, they would really need your attention
and companionship than any other terriers.

A Dog in One Pack - Jack Russell Terrier

We basically want to find companions who would give us most of the benefits we
think we need. Well, if you are looking for a dog that is somewhat a
one-in-package pal, you might find Jack Russell Terriers interesting enough.

This dog has a history that is somehow loomed to give rise to the specie.

It was said that the breeder of this dog, a young Theologian student of Oxford
University named John Russell once met a milkman with a white terrier that has
spots on his eyes and ears. This dog became his interest which later proved to
be his foundation for breeding a new dog breed that many has learned to love as
pets. The dog he first saw was named "Trump" from which another 60 types of
terriers were later bred from.

With a terrier's basic nature to go on and over the ground (terrier by the way
came from the Latin term "terra" which means earth), Jack Russell terriers also
have the disposition to hunt and scour for hunting. Thus, they should be given
enough grooming so as to set off the dirt they gather from digging soil to
either bury a treasure or to recover a hidden treasure kept long ago.

An excellent ratter, Jack Russell Terriers proves to be good "housekeepers"
since they keep most rats away from home. Any unlucky rat that happens to be
inside the quarters of this terrier is sure to meet its instant doom. Thus,
owners find themselves with both a dog and cat in one pal.

One basic character of this dog is its disposition towards strangers. They can
easily figure out who must be kept away from their homes and who can be
accepted inside the house. This very attitude also makes them good watchdogs.
They were designed specifically to be aggressive on preys. And while they can
be very vocal, many of them only barks when they find good reason to.

They do not appear vicious though. But once they smell threat, they can show
off aggressiveness that could serve as warning towards the strangers. However,
once the stranger is let into the house by the owner, a Jack Russell can
already tolerate his or her presence.

This terrier is also a family dog and desires for human companionship. And
their love for children is significantly interesting. However, once they are
abused or had been shown improper treatments, may it be intentional or
accidental, they can react through aggressive behaviors. Their aggressiveness
is further manifested with their lack of fear towards larger dogs which can
unfortunately lead to injuries, some can even be fatal.

They are also marked for their intelligence and good spirit. These
characteristics can be highly observable through their curiosity in things.
Thus, they require supplementation on formal training unless you can tolerate
difficult behaviors. The good thing though with Jack Russell is that it can
acknowledge training and do well in most of them. In fact, they are known to
champion various ring shows and other similar competitions.

The Hollywood has recognized the disposition of these dogs too. Coupled with
feisty and good physical characteristics, this pal has already made names in
the screens. If Wishbone, Milo (from The Mask) and Eddie (from the Frasier)
ring the bell on you then there is no doubt that you can recognize this dog.

Jack Russell fair well with grooming. A dog of relatively small size, this
breed will not tax you with grooming needs.

Rescue Canine 101: Boston Terrier Dog Rescue

The following article provides some questions most people are assumed ask about
the organization and its endeavors. Answers are provided after each question.

Just what is Boston Terrier Rescue?

This is an association devoted to housing abandoned or unwanted Boston
terriers. They set emergency rescues and conducts appropriate adoption of these
terriers to their permanent homes.

However, the network does not house Boston terriers that are already in poor
health, aggressive, old, and/or are disease-carriers since they will not be
even suitable for adoption afterwards. The least the BTR will do is to advise
the owners of such terriers on better options.

Why are these dogs being rescued?

Most dogs that are rescued by the network were simply unwanted. Most owners
would admit that they were unable to provide their pets with the attention,
time, and level of activity that are appropriate for this lovely little dog to
thrive and be healthy. There were cases when life situations or jobs made it
hard for the owners to keep their pets with them. They considered the
abandonment of the terriers as the easy or even sole option.

Can the adopted dog be used for breeding?

The association will definitely disapprove of the idea!

In fact, they firmly advise every new owner to have the dog strictly as pets.
As part of the placement process, Bostons are being spayed or neutered to avoid
reproduction. Moreover, most of the rescued terriers are not excellent strains
of the breed standard. More often, they do not have a record of ancestry or
pedigree that can be consulted before the breeding process. May I adopt a
female terrier?

Most Boston terriers that are being abandoned are males aging between two and
six since most owners think that the female variety is more affectionate.
Surprisingly, the male variety is a responsive and sweet companion given proper
attention and care. However, since all rescued Bostons are spared as breeders,
the gender of the dog should not matter at all during the adoption. Appropriate
placement shall be executed by BTR.

Is there a charge if an owner surrenders a Boston?

There are owners who volunteer themselves of paying their dogs' medical
requirements, which also include spaying or neutering. Likewise, donations
assist in the expenditures that cover the dogs' preparations for placement in a
new home and with a new owner.

If I adopt a dog, will I be charged for it?

Apparently, owning a dog requires the owner to be financially capable for
health care expenditures and even for the registry of Bostons.

How does the adoption process happen?

The procedure can be summarized as follows:

1.  Screening

a.  BT Rescue filters potential owners by filling out extensive application
    papers for adoption. 

b.  Possible owners' financial capability and lifestyle are being researched by 
    the network. 

c.  Application forms are screened between 7 and 10 days.

2.  Approval/Disapproval

a.  Once the application is approved, a dog that is available at the time shall
    be presented to its new owner. 

b.  Otherwise, the application shall be placed on a waiting list. If 
    circumstances make the application possible, the new owner is notified later 
    on.

What must be done to help?

The answer depends on the clientele.

1.  For Breeders

Breeders are advised not to sell their Boston Terrier to anyone if the new home
will be inappropriate. Instead, have good homes reserved for them and plan
litters.

Also, if breeders do not have a competent and proper breeding program,
reproduction should be avoided.

2.  For everyone else

Be informed about the special nature and various mental and physical
requirements of Boston Terrier. Then educate others about these things.

It should be made clear to everyone that Bostons do not fit the lifestyle of
just anyone and everyone. If possible, look for breeds that may warrant a new
shelter.

Moreover, donations are greatly appreciated for they usually assist in the
placement process of the dogs. BTR runs entirely on the dedication of
volunteers.

Report an unwanted Boston. Rescue an abandoned canine! Dial Rescue Canine-1-1!

Training Your Silky Dog: A Terrier Anti-Terror Basics

It is essential to have a dog that knows how to follow the right rules and how
to live around your house. To achieve this, dog training must be considered.

Most people think that training a dog is hard and expensive. Moreover, dog
training requires a lot of patience and creativity for your dog. We have to
remember that dogs may be intelligent but they can not be as intelligent as us.
The article provides some of the basic things dog owners need to know so they
can do the training themselves. However, to maximize the full potential of your
dog, a dog trainer should be hired instead.

What are the differences between a submissive dog and a dominant dog?

A submissive dog normally:

* avoids eye contact. 
* rolls on its back. 
* crouch down, ears back and tail lowered. 
* is comfortable on its back in your arms.

On the other hand, a dominant dog:

* maintains eye contact. 
* is unwilling to move from his place on the couch. 
* dislikes grooming and petting. 
* is possessive of dishes and toys.

Training your silky terriers requires kindness and consistency. Silkys respond
actively to praises and to rewards. In addition, they become harsh and
unresponsive towards punishments and animosity, respectively.

Trainings with obedience classes can be intensely beneficial in petting your
silky terriers. In many dog training schools, classes for puppies are
available. Young dogs are taught to get accustomed with other dogs and people
using limited trainings. However, there are areas that do not conduct formal
obedience training unless the dog is at least half a year old. Always remember
that a dog is never too old to benefit from training when a good trainer is
available, or if the owner is fully committed to the task.

Here are the recommended ways of training silky terriers:

1. Reiteration or Repetition

Reiteration is the name of the dog training game. In here, dogs are asked to do
a task over and over again to achieve mastery. Dog tricks are best learned when
reiterated and reinforced through rewards.

2. Persistence

Patience is a virtue that requires you to tolerate hardships. Persistence is
trying to be patient for a longer time until a goal is achieved. Apparently,
dog training requires a lot of persistence from the owner or from the trainer
Physical and psychological aspects of the owner and/or the trainer must be
sound.

3. Commendation and Amendation
Simply put, if a dog does the right thing, it should be said aloud. Otherwise,
the dog should hear, "No, that's not it!" when the trick is not complete or
appropriate for the command given. These words reinforce correct responses and
diminish the unwanted ones.

4. Rewarding

Bits of cheese would really be good treats for dogs who responded correctly to
a given command. Other food can be bought at pet sores. However, if you are
able to get the respect of your pet, commands will be executed even if there
are no longer involved treats. Likewise, these things reinforce warranted
responses.

If your lifestyle permits being in charge of training your own pet, you can do
the training as long as you have gathered enough patience and commitment by:

1. spending time grooming your dog. 

2. having regular training times on the leash. 

3. stroking its belly and toes and rolling it on its back 

4. hand feeding some food to ensure that the pet is taking treats gently and 
   slowly.

In asserting dominance, always practice consistency and firmness. Afterwards,
you can be a master and a dear friend to your own pet.

Finding Boston Terrier Dogs for Sale

People think that finding Boston terrier dogs for sale would be a very easy
task. However, people need to know that there's more to finding Boston terrier
dogs for sale than looking in the phone book or in the classified ads. For one
thing, the breeder often reflects the quality of the pet.

Today, many of the Boston terrier dogs for sale are bred by "puppy farms" which
exist solely to breed and sell pet dogs. These "puppy farms" are profit-oriented
and are therefore natural breeding grounds for animal cruelty. It is often the
case that the puppies born in these farms are taken away from their mothers as
soon as they are big enough to sell. They are often malnourished as a result of
the cost-cutting methods of these farms.

When you are trying to find Boston terrier dogs for sale, you need to look for
a breeder who genuinely cares for the animals. This will assure you that the
animal is well taken care of and will survive more than a few weeks in your
care.

Another reason to look for this type of Boston terrier dogs for sale is
genetics. When you buy from a puppy farm, all the owner cares about is the
profits. As long as a puppy looks good enough to be sold, it is sold. A great
dog breeder, however, knows that breeding goes far beyond determining the
appearance of a dog. When you are looking for Boston terrier dogs for sale, you
need to look for a breeder who knows that breeding also determines the
temperament of a dog.

When you go looking for Boston terrier dogs for sale, you need to find a pet
that would suit your temperament. While a low-class breeder would tell you to
buy a dog because the puppy looks cute, a great dog breeder would tell you to
buy a specific dog because it fits your personality.

When looking for Boston terrier dogs for sale, you need to find a seller who
does not ask you how much you are willing to pay but asks you what your
qualifications are. When you are looking for Boston terrier dogs for sale, you
need to find a breeder who will not push the dog towards you but will truly
take the time to know if you are fit to own a dog.

When you are looking for Boston terrier dogs for sale, you need to look for a
seller who would be willing to take back the dog if you somehow neglect it. Do
not go for sellers who will exchange the puppy for cash and then walk away. A
great breeder will leave you with a way to contact him or her in case you
change your mind.

Another way to find the best kinds of Boston terrier dogs for sale is to look
for the proper documentation. Often, true breeders will be able to provide
pedigrees that can trace back the lineage of a puppy. Through this, you know
that you are buying the best.

Looking for Boston terrier dogs for sale may seem like a daunting task at
first, but with the right attitude and information, you should be able to get
the best puppy for you. By following the tips in this article, you can make
hunting for Boston terrier dogs for sale the best thing you have ever done.

The Scruffy Little Hunter Dog: Border Terrier

The Border terrier got its name from the area called Cheviot Hills, which is
actually near the border of England and Scotland. This is where these dogs were
made to attack and terminate predatory foxes.

They have wiry coat that is why they normally appear as scruffy. However, this
scruffiness is an attention-grabber that is why owners do not forget to hug
their little ball of energy.

The following are some of the basic facts breeders would really love to know
about Borders:

Category: Terrier

Living Environment: indoors (highly recommended); outdoors (fenced yard)

Coat: wiry and short; double coated

Colors: tan, red, grizzle and tan, and/or blue and tan

Height: between 11 and 16 inches

Weight: between 11 and 16 pounds

Temperament:

Naturally,

* they are scruffy, hard and bold hunters 

* they are active as puppies but mellow down as they mature 

* they are not friendly with rabbits, rats, hamsters, and even birds 

* they are economical to feed 

* their activity die down when left alone all day as they really love to p
  lease people especially their owners

When properly trained,

* they can get along with the household cats but not with cats in the
  neighborhood 

* they may even catch a burglar * they may lose timidity when accustomed to 
  active environments

Breeders should note of the following health issues:

* Canine Epileptoid Cramping Syndrome or CES, also called as "Spike's disease",
  which is a hereditary, neurological, metabolic and muscle disorder that is
  sometimes confused with canine epilepsy 

* Cataract, or loss of transparency of one or both lenses of the eyes 

* Cryptorchidism, wherein testicles do not descend into the scrotum 

* Deafness 

* Skin problems and a few skin allergies

Care and Exercise:

* Their coat needs weekly brushing. 

* They should be professionally groomed at least twice a year. 

* They should bathe only when necessary since they shed little to no hair. 
  Their physique requires a regular exercise routine which includes a daily 
  play time while on leash. 

* They should be on leash while walking in public places because of their 
  hunting instincts.

Origin/History:

The exact origins of Border terriers are obscure but many breeders accepted the
story that the variety was developed in the Cheviot Hills area, which is near
the border of Scotland and England. The Borders have been used as hunters of
rabbits and hares. They can even keep up with running horses with their short
yet sturdy legs. They were also used by farmers to lure predatory foxes into
their dens before killing them.

They were also trained to hunt otters, marten, and even fierce badgers. Like
most terriers that were once molded as hunters, they also evolved as pets and
became lovely, friendly, and loyal companion dogs. They also take part in dog
shows and they can easily grab their audience attention with their agility,
appearance, and bright disposition.

The breed was registered by the British Kennel Club in 1920 and by the American
Club ten years after.

At present, Borders are highly favored as companion dogs and pets due to their
adaptability, friendliness, and winning personality. Nonetheless, they can be
reliable when it comes to tracking down vermin. In fact, some of their esteemed
talents include hunting, guarding the family, and performing tricks and sports
that require competitive obedience.

Like most terriers, you can be rest assured to have a loyal and bright
companion dogs if you give your attention and affection to a Border. You can be
sure that they can definitely drive away your bore!

Some Facts about the Boston "Bull" Terrier Dog

The Boston terrier is a well-muscled and compact breed. This is not really
surprising since the Boston terrier was first bred by people who wanted to use
them in dog fights. Now some people may read all sorts of implications from
such a violent past. Some people might think that the Boston terrier dog would
make a bad pet because of its aggressive nature. However, you should know that
as a pet, the Boston terrier can actually be pretty mild mannered.

The temperament of the Boston terrier can be described as enthusiastic as it
often loves to play. Most people comment that the Boston terrier actually has a
great sense of humor. Another characteristic that people find delightful with
this breed is the fact that they are intelligent and are very much easily
trained. This fact is also enhanced by the dog's natural curiosity and love for
learning.

Of course, people who own pets know the importance of training. Having a
well-behaved pet increases the enjoyment for you both. Having a well-behaved
pet means that you can have more fun with that pet.

One thing that owners have noticed with a Boston terrier is the fact that it
can be very sensitive to the tone of a person's voice. This may be described as
a sort of emotion detector. Because of this sensitivity to the tone, a Boston
terrier will be able to respond to how you are feeling when you are talking.
This means, however, that you need to take care when training your dog. You
need to make sure that anger and frustration do not find their way into your
voice.

They also make excellent watchdogs as they do not bark indiscriminately. This
means that you won't wake up in the middle of the night because your Boston
terrier saw a butterfly. There are some cases, though, when a Boston terrier
will not bark at all.

Regarding the living conditions, Boston terriers can do well enough without a
yard as long as they get regular exercise. This means that they are suitable
for apartment living. However, you should also know that they are very
sensitive to the extremes of weather. This means that you should keep it in a
place that's neither too hot nor too cold.

Unlike other terrier breeds, the Boston terrier is an average shedder. This
means that you should be wary of keeping it indoors as it can shed fur over
your floor. We all know how much of a fiasco that can be.

Bostons have a variety of common health problems. They easily get overheated
when they are pushed too hard. As said before, they can also be sensitive to
extreme weather and any weather that's too hot or too cold can leave them with
breathing difficulties. Skin tumors and heart tumors are very common with this
breed. So you need to bring the dog to a vet regularly.

Another disorder you should watch out for is a skull defect. If a Boston
terrier is badly bred, it often develops a bone defect that prevents the brain
from growing. This, naturally, will lead to a retarded dog.

Major Concerns with a Border Terrier

If you want to have a small but sturdy pet dog, then the Border terrier might
be for you. This pet is no delicate lapdog. The Border terrier pet dog is full
of fun for the whole family.

Before getting a Border terrier pet dog, however, you might want to consider
some of the major concerns regarding the breed. This will help you weigh the
pros against the cons and will let you reach a decision that would be best for
you. Here are some concerns regarding Border terrier pet dogs:

1) Temperament -- when people talk about terriers, they all comment on the same
behavior using different words. Some people say that their dogs are feisty. Some
say that their dogs are stubborn. Some people would prefer to use the word
impulsive. The point is, they all describe the same behavior. A terrier is
inherently dynamic in its behavior. It is part of what makes a terrier, a
terrier.

The temperament of the Border terrier pet dog may be quite surprising, if not
outright shocking for most people because of its size. For such a small dog, a
Border terrier pet dog sure packs a lot of energy.

2) Aggression -- Border terrier pet dogs are not really as aggressive as other
breeds. However, its instincts as a terrier would still urge it to run after
anything smaller than it. This means that if you own a cat or even a pet
rabbit, you cannot have a Border terrier pet dog. This also means that you
cannot trust a Border terrier pet dog out of its leash. If it even sees
something running, it will take off, leaving you yelling uselessly. This, of
course, can cause accidents to happen. In order to make sure that your Border
terrier pet dog does not get hit by a car, you need to keep that pet on a leash
outside.

3) Escape -- it is recommended by many experts that Border terrier pet dogs
should be kept in a fenced-in yard to let it have some roaming space while
making sure that it is safe. However, you should know that Border terrier pet
dogs are clever escape artists. Even if a Border terrier pet dog is within a
closed in fence, you should try to keep an eye on it.

4) The noise -- Border terrier pet dogs will bark at practically anything that
catches their attention. Because of this, you need to properly train them to
bark only when needed. You should also be quick to stop them if they are
barking inappropriately.

For this reason, you should not really get a Border terrier pet dog if you live
with very close neighbors and if you work during the day. An unsupervised Border
terrier pet dog is sure to keep barking all day long. This, of course, may draw
complaints from your neighbors.

5) Independent thinking -- what people love about Border terrier pet dogs is
the fact that they can learn very quickly. This is because of their inherent
curiosity and toughness. However, the same qualities that make them
prize-winners can also make them very stubborn when they want to. You have to
be consistent with your commands and show the Border terrier pet dog that you
mean what you say. In doing so, you will be training the Border terrier pet dog
properly.

Some Tips for Keeping Your Airedale Terrier Pet Dog Well-Behaved

Here are some tips you can use to keep your Airedale terrier pet dog
well-behaved:

1) Can't teach an old dog -- You have to start training your Airedale terrier
pet dog as early as possible. This is because of the fact that the earlier an
Airedale terrier pet dog learns a trick, the faster they will be able to learn
it. This doesn't just apply to tricks. It also applies to general behavior.
When your Airedale terrier pet dog is still just a puppy, you need to start
training it. This way, the behavioral training that you give it will be
ingrained into the Airedale terrier pet dog's brain. This way, proper behavior
becomes almost instinctive to the Airedale terrier pet dog.

2) Use, don't abuse -- Various training methods are made available for you by
various experts. However, there's one thing you should know: they only work
with proper use. Some people make use of the leash or of the crate to abuse
their animals. What you need to know is that each method of training can only
be effective if used in a way that will not harm the animals. You need to be
firm but gentle with your animal when you are trying to train it.

Use the various implements humanely in such a manner that will encourage your
dog to behave well and not scare it from behaving badly.

3) Habit inside, habit outside -- Before taking your Airedale terrier pet dog
outside, try to observe its behavior inside. This will give you a clue as to
how the Airedale terrier pet dog will act outside the house. Many people say
that a dog's behavior inside a house is very different from the way that the
same dog will act in outside environments. This is not true. By observing the
inside behavior of your Airedale terrier pet dog, you will realize how it will
respond to you outside.

If your Airedale terrier pet dog does not listen to your commands inside the
house, how can you expect it to listen to your commands outside the house where
there are things a lot more interesting to a dog than your commands are?

4) Keep your temper -- Training an Airedale terrier pet dog can understandably
be very frustrating. However, you should not lose your temper. Negative actions
such as hitting or shouting at your dog will not accomplish anything positive.
Sometimes, we have a tendency to take out our frustrations on helpless pets. Do
not blame your problems on the dog. If you know that you are having a bad day,
do not even think about training your dog. All that you might get from the
ordeal is a bad case of hyperacidity. Your dog will learn nothing and that
would only increase your frustration.

5) Timing -- Timing is always important. You need to make corrections regarding
your Airedale terrier pet dog's behavior while those corrections are still
relevant. If you praise or correct with the wrong timing, you would only end up
confusing the dog. Actually, the best timing you can use is to correct the
Airedale terrier pet dog before he or she even starts to misbehave.

These five tips can help you a lot in keeping your Airedale terrier pet dog's
behavior in check. By following these tips, you can make training your dog an
easy task.

The Bull(y) and Strong Dog: Staffordshire Terrier

The Staffordshire bulls are known for their great strength because of their
sizes. Their variety is muscular and stocky but is also known for their
agility. Surprisingly, this breed is one of the two breeds recognized by the UK
Kennel Club as very suitable for children. Furthermore, their types ranked 5th
when it comes to dog popularity in the UK, where the breed originated.
Interestingly, Staffies are the only breed of dog that are "totally reliable"
when it comes to standard of breed.

The following are some of the basic facts breeders would really love to know
about Staffies:

Category: Terrier

Living Environment: either indoors or outdoors

Coat: smooth (or silky like most terriers), dense, and short

Colors: black, brindle, red, blue, fawn; or any of these colors mixed with 
white

Height: between 14 and 16 inches

Weight: between 24 and 38 pounds

Colors: brindle, blue, black, red, fawn, white; or any of these with white

Temperament: aggressive towards other animals but very friendly with children

Health Issues: heat stroke, cataracts, and breathing problems

Care and Exercise Tips:

* Bathe when necessary. 

* Brush their coat only occasionally using a brush with firm bristles. 

* Rub down their coat with a chamois or towel to remove hairs that are loose. 

* Their physique requires a regular exercise routine which includes a daily 
  play time while on a leash. 

* They should be on leash while walking in public places.

Origin/History:

The Staffordshire bull terriers, also known as the Staffies, are known to have
existed around the 17th century. Since dog fighting gained a surge of
popularity over bull baiting, it became a must to develop a breed of dog that
is agile, strong, and has a more punishing head than the Bulldog.

In this light, fighting Bulldogs of that time were crossed with some terrier
blood. The hybrid was known as the Pit Dog or the Bull and Terrier. The new
cross breed became well known for their tenacity and courage, and despite their
reputation of being furious with other animals they were excellent companions
especially with children.

The Staffie pit dog became a favorite of steelworkers and miners alike. The
breed also provided chain makers of the "Black Country" with extra income when
worked against ratters or badgers.

The enforcement of the Humane Act in 1835 completely prohibited sports like dog
fighting and bull baiting. However, a group of men in the Staffordshire chose to
maintain their breed of dogs by introducing them to the show business.

Through the years, the breeders themselves changed the name of the dog into
Staffordshire bull terrier to differentiate its physique from the English bull
terrier. However, the name of the dog was officially registered only in 1935 by
the American Kennel Club.

In 1938, a couple of Staffies gained popularity as Champions at the Birmingham
National. The popularity of Ch. Lady Eve and were Ch. Gentleman Jim reached
many established countries including France, Australia, Germany, Spain, Holland
and even the USA. Since then, Staffies became successful as show dogs and were
very popular as compared to other terriers.

The Stafford bull terrier, yes, has become a popular pet while still retaining
reputations gained through generations of fighting dogs bred for tenacity,
courage, agility, and most importantly, its reliability and great affinity with
people especially with children.

And today you can say that the bull is not so bully after all! In fact, the
bull is totally reliable as children's pets.

Some Information Regarding the Kerry Blue Terrier Pet Dog

The Blue Kerry terrier pet dog is one of the most mysterious breeds of
terriers. This is because of the fact that even though the breed has been known
by the Irish for at leas 150 years, nobody really knows where they came from or
how they were first bred.

Various legends are told in order to explain the appearance of the Kerry blue
terrier breed. Some say that the peasants bred them for hunting purposes since
noblemen monopolized the use of wolfhounds. Thus, noblemen hunted with their
wolfhounds while peasants poached with their Kerries.

Another legend speaks of a wrecked Russian ship that contained a blue dog. This
dog swam into Irish shores and there, mated with the local terrier population.
This, of course, started the genetic pool of blue Kerry terriers.

Whatever the case, the blue Kerry terrier sure has a colorful history. It
started as a working dog, helping hunters bring in prey. It would also be
trained as a police dog by the English. Today, it is considered to be one of
the best breeds of dogs that one can own. This is in part of its excellent
abilities as a watchdog.

One thing that is so cool about owning a Blue Kerry terrier pet dog is the fact
that this breed is adaptable to every situation. It can be a hardworking
hunter's dog. It can become the vigilant watchdog. If you want companionship,
it can also provide that. People who are fortunate to have a Blue Kerry terrier
pet dog even say that once you are a Kerry lover, you are forever a Kerry lover.

There are some terrier characteristics which may cause a bit of trouble for
your dog. Like all terriers, the Blue Kerry terrier pet dog can get into fights
with other dogs. In order to prevent this, you need to make sure that the Blue
Kerry terrier pet dog is properly socialized. Usually this is done by the
breeder.

Most people, when they are getting a pet often ask the question of whether or
not a pet can be housebroken easily. Thankfully enough, the Blue Kerry terrier
pet dog has a disposition that is easily house trained. The Blue Kerry terrier
pet dog is actually quite eager to learn. This means that you will be able to
train it very quickly.

Although a Blue Kerry terrier can become an excellent playmate for children, it
must be taken that the children do not show any cruelty to the dog.

The Blue Kerry terrier is also one of the more hardy types of terriers. This is
because the Blue Kerry terrier has very few genetic problems. Before buying one,
however, you need to ask for eye certifications and hip x-rays. These are the
most commonly afflicted parts of the Blue Kerry terrier.

A Blue Kerry terrier is not really for everyone. Some people may find it a bit
too playful. Some people may not really get used to the Blue Kerry terrier's
curiosity. People may not really understand its habit of following everyone
around. Today, the fate of the Blue Kerry terrier dog lies in the hands of the
breeders who care for them, nurture them, and make sure that they have great
homes to stay in.

Some Facts about Silky Terrier Pet Dogs

Dogs have always been man's best friend. Nowadays, however, human-canine
relations have been rather strained mainly because of apartment living. Many
people today live in condominiums or apartment building where pets aren't
allowed. Because of this, people realize that they either need to get another
place or to get one of the robot dogs that many companies are selling today.
There is, however, an alternative -- many people today are getting "toy" pet
dos like silky terriers.

These "toy" dogs are the way to go if you want the warmth and companionship of
a pet dog without the hassles. In this article, we are going to discuss the
many virtues of having a silky terrier pet dog.

One of the best characteristics of the silky terrier is its coat. If you have a
silky terrier pet dog, the first thing you will notice about is the way that it
coat shines. A silky terrier's coat is actually where it gets the name from
since its coat is straight and silky. One of the main reasons why dogs aren't
allowed in apartment buildings is because of fur shedding. Some dogs have the
tendency to shed their coats and leave clumps of fur lying around the house.
This can be very messy if not outright disgusting.

One of the virtues of having a silky terrier pet dog is the fact that its coat
really doesn't shed. This means that people can be sure that their pet dog does
not leave a furry mess when it explores a room. Thus, your carpeting is safe
from dog fur.

Naturally alert and friendly, the silky terrier can make an excellent watchdog
because of its terrier nature. It is friendly, but a silky terrier pet dog can
be quite possessive with their family. It does not really like to be left alone
for long periods of time and would behave their best when someone is always home
with it.

One thing you need to keep silky terriers as pet dogs is commitment. The coat
of the silky terrier is prone to matting and tangles, which means that you need
to brush it regularly. It also needs to be shampooed regularly in order to
maintain the shine of the coat. Care should also be taken with the throat sine
a silky terrier pet dog has especially sensitive trachea. You see how much
attention a silky terrier pet dog requires?

Training can also be quite a challenge since a silky terrier pet dog may be
difficult to housebreak. People who own one agree that it takes a lot of energy
to properly train a silky terrier pet dog. A silky terrier pet dog, however,
will do well in training if a choke collar is not used. The trainer needs to be
firm but just to the animal.

A silky terrier pet dog can also be full of energy. This means that you need to
constantly keep it occupied with activities. Boredom is one of the enemies of
the silky terrier pet dog. It likes to be given the chance to run and play but
it also is very suitable for an apartment. You also need to keep a silky
terrier pet dog occupied socially.

A silky terrier pet dog may be a handful, but it is perfect if you want a
little ball of fun to keep you company.




Some Information Regarding Cairn Terrier Pet Dogs

If you are thinking of getting a Cairn terrier pet dog, then you need to know
some information about it first. Why? Well, knowing the right information about
anything will help you in the long run. This is especially true when we are
talking about a pet ownership. Before you get a Cairn terrier pet dog, you need
to be sure that you know what you are getting yourself into. You need to know
how to take proper care of your cairn terrier pet dog and you also need to know
what to expect when you are getting one.

Thankfully, there are a lot of sites on the internet which can provide you the
necessary information. To save you some time, however, here are the basics:

Originally bred in the Scottish highlands, the Cairn terrier is the smallest of
all terrier breeds. You should not let the size deceive you when you are getting
a Cairn terrier pet dog, however. The Cairn terrier was first bred because of
its working ability. You know what this means? This means energy.

A Cairn terrier pet dog has a lot of energy to spare. They can gain a lot from
taking brisk walks daily. However, you should know that they do best when they
have a fenced-in yard to play in. This way, they get more room when they play.
Their high energy also means that they aren't really suitable for apartment or
condo living. If you live in such places, then having a Cairn terrier pet dog
is not for you.

Their energy may also put them in danger. This is the reason why you need to
make sure that a Cairn terrier pet dog stays in one area. Their natural
instincts tell them to dig and run and these activities may lead to accidents
if unsupervised.

There are, however, a lot of positive things that can be said about a Cairn
terrier pet dog's energy. For one thing, it makes the dog fun to play with. It
can play for hours on end, giving you the companionship that you want. Another
positive with this energy is the fact that this energy can be channeled into
good purposes. A Cairn terrier pet dog is naturally inquisitive and is always
willing to participate in a new adventure. This means that a Cairn terrier pet
dog can be easily taught to do tricks. They learn tricks very fast and thrive
in obedience training.

You need to make sure that your Cairn terrier pet dog is trained properly since
untrained ones have a tendency to be destructive when they are bored.

Let us talk about the proper care for a Cairn terrier pet dog. One thing you do
not need to worry about is its coat. The Cairn terrier pet dog was not bred for
the beauty of its coat. The coat of a Cairn terrier pet dog is weather
resistant and sheds little to no fur. Because of this, it can be a great indoor
pet.

Being the smallest of terrier breeds, however, makes Cairn terrier pet dogs
especially vulnerable to various health problems. Care must be taken when
feeding it as it can gain weight quite rapidly. A Cairn terrier pet dog is also
especially sensitive to fleas. However, you can be sure that this is one of the
best breeds around.

The Dog of the Highlands: West Highland White Terrier

At around 1700s, the Isle of Skye and other highlands in Scotland were already
producing lots of small terriers. Scottish breeds were separated into two: the
Skye terriers and the Dandie Dinmont terriers.

The Dandie Dinmonts were categorized as a separate breed. The Skyes included
the Scotties, the Cairns and the West highland white terriers or the Westies.

It was also noted that these terriers were the hybrids among the crossed
Cairns, Scottish, and Dandies terriers. One could assume that the hybrid would
really be loyal and its hunting instincts could not be belittled. In fact, many
royalties in Scotland owned terriers that were very similar to the Westies of
today.

Another remarkable story is about a Westie that stopped a mother from
constantly yelling at her daughter. Every time the mother would yell at her
teenage daughter, the Westie would attack the mother. The aggression of the dog
got worse over the years that resulted in the mother's complete inability to
scold her teenager.

It turned out that the girl was actually rewarding the dog for his protection
by calming and soothing him down after every "threat" from her mother. Many
would perceive that the daughter was able to help her mother to change her ways
when in fact she was helping herself by rewarding the dog for its behavior.

The following are some of the basic facts breeders would really love to know
about Westies:

Category: Terrier 

Living Environment: indoors (highly recommended); outdoors (fenced yard)

Coat: about two-inch coarse and wiry outer coat and soft, dense, and furry
undercoat 

Color: white

Height: between 10 and 12 inches

Weight: between 13 and 22 pounds

Temperament:

Naturally,

* they like to bark and dig 

* they are not as willful like most terriers 

* they love companionship

When properly trained

* they can become fairly friendly towards strangers 

* they develop close affinity with behaved children 

* they love to chase cats but they do not hurt them 

* they can become a very good watch dog 

* they can become very lively

Breeders should note of the following health issues:

* Chronic skin problems 

* Perthe's disease (hip problems) 

* Jawbone calcification 

* Cranio mandibular osteopathy (lion jaw) 

* Patella luxation, a disorder in the kneecap 

* Liver ailments 

* Deafness 

* Congenital heart disease

Care and Exercise:

* Their coat should be brushed regularly using a brush with stiff bristles. 

* They should bathe only when necessary. 

* Their whole coat should be stripped at least twice a year and trimmed every 
  four months. 

* The fur on the eyes and ears should be trimmed using blunt-nose mirrors. 

* They will surely be more agile and healthy after regular sessions of play 
  and/or walk.

Origin/History:

As noted, they share the same lineage with Cairns and Scotties (from Skye
terriers), and even with the Dandies. This trio was developed in the Isle of
Skye, which was one of the highlands in Scotland. It was noted that white
whelps were chosen from the wiry-coated Cairns, Scotties, and Dandies to
produce the variety that were known as Poltalloch terriers.

Following are some items in the history that show the Westies' reputation of
being owners' favorite companion dogs.

Records in the history mentioned that around 1620, King James 1 of England
requested some small white dogs from Argyleshire in Scotland. Colonel Malcolm,
who was considered as the originator of Poltalloch terriers, that are very
similar to the Westies of today, accidentally shot his terrier (a dark one).
From then on he vowed to have only white terriers.

In the 19th century, terriers that were very similar to the Westies were known
as Roseneath terriers in honor of Duke of Argyll's interest and patronage of
this breed. Roseneath was the name of his estate at Dumbartonshire.

In the first-ever dog show that were organized in the late 1800s, the Westies
were called as White Scottish terriers. In 1904, they were classified under the
name West Highland White terriers.

During the mid-1900s, breeders of the Cairns in Argyll, Scotland selected white
puppies from the stock and interbreed some to obtain white Cairns. However, in
1917, the American Kennel Club ruled that Cairns could be listed if they have
the Westies' lineage.

We can say the history repeats itself for this delightful terrier is now mostly
a favorite companion dog of many households.

The Playful and Versatile Dog: Wheaten Terrier

Like most terriers, the Wheaten terriers, or simply called as Wheatens, were
originally bred as hunters. Therefore, their physique naturally evolved as
strong and healthy. Their hunting instincts have made them agile and alert as
most terriers are. However, this breed is more stable and steady as compared to
most terriers as they were used as by Irish farmers as all-purpose dogs.

Among the activities that molded their instincts and physical features were
herding cattle and sheep, vermin terminators, hunting both in water and on
land, and serving as watch dogs that deterred trespassers.

The following are some of the basic facts breeders would really love to know
about Wheatens:

Category: Terrier

Living Environment: indoors (highly recommended); outdoors (fenced yard)

Coat: single coat, medium length, silky and soft, wavy 

Colors: born to have black coats but at the age of two, their coats lighten to 
achieve the color of wheat grains

Height: between 17 and 20 inches

Weight: between 30 and 45 pounds

Temperament:

Naturally,

* they rarely bark especially when it is unnecessary to do so 

* they immediately reflect the moods of their household or those around them. 

* their type requires a great deal of commitment and effort in training them 
  so they should not be given to novice breeders and/or owners

If trained properly, they

* are generally happy and friendly 

* are easy-going, confident, and deeply dedicated to their family's security 

* can get along well with older children and other animals that have been 
  raised with them or are living within the same household

Breeders should note of the following health issues:

* Flea allergies 

* Addison's disease 

* Heat stroke 

* PLN and PLE

Care and Exercise:

* They require daily combing to prevent their wavy and thick coat from
  tangling. 

* They should undergo trimming by professionals at least four times each year. 

* Dry shampooing or even bathing should be done only when it is necessary. 

* Eyes and ears should be checked and cleaned on a regular basis. 

* They should be brought along with family activities such as play sessions,
  hiking, picnic, and even walking.

Origin/History:

The soft coated breed of terriers, shortly called as Wheatens, originated from
Ireland. The date of their existence was obscure but many assumed that their
breeds were one of the oldest among other Irish varieties. They were molded as
herders, farm dogs, and hunters and terminators of vermin, like the Cairns of
Scotland.

From Ireland, they were brought to the US in the year 1946. Slowly they gained
popularity as pets and as entertainers. However, the extraordinary appeal of
this breed to the Americans at present would not be possible if Patrick Blake
did not save its lineage from extinction in1932. They were registered by the
American Kennel Club in the year 1973. Though their types have hunter
instincts, they can get along well with older children and other animals within
the household through proper training and attention. Like most terriers, they
easily develop close affinity with family members so they normally appoint
themselves as watch or guard dogs.

For professional breeders, why not appoint them as well as your pet especially
when you are looking for a playful yet reliable companion and guard dog? To
this effect, you can say that what you own is one heck of a dog -- a dog that
can work and play as well!

Unfortunate Impressions on Bull Dog Terriers

People might be wondering why there is such a name as "bull dog".

Originally, Great Britain and later, America were obsessed with bloody fights
between bulls and dogs. The main function of the canine is to hang on to the
bull's neck and worry the poor animal until it dies. Obviously, these dogs had
developed great strength in their jaws.

Among the popular choices of dogs for this sport were the pit bulls. Back then,
the selection of pit bulls was so varied that many showed a variety of
characteristics that made the sport highly interesting. Later in the life of
the sport though, the center of attraction switched towards the fight between
pit bulls and not against the bulls themselves.

From these canines rooted most of the bull dog terriers that we know of today.

One of the significant bull dog terriers we have is the American Staffordshire
Terrier who is of great interest since it possesses intriguing seemingly
opposing characters.

They project strength and physically power but they are not vicious. In fact,
this dog is very much associated with its relationship to its family,
especially among children. The physical features it has are now only due to
their basic nature and orientation during their bloody fights as fighting
machines. But this does not negate the fact that they can sometimes show
aggressiveness which may somehow work against them. Nevertheless, this can be
set off with their loving nature and devotion to human family. Thus, it has a
stable temperament which make them good pets and excellent watchdogs.

AmStaff terrier, as it is called by its shorter name suffers in reputation
though since it is commonly associated with pit bulls. These dogs are known for
their love for challnge and are therefore employed in illegal dog fighting.

Most of the problems root from irresponsible training. Sadly, there are too few
AmStaff that are properly trained. And what's even depressing is that there are
innumerable pit bulls that are continually ill-treated by sadistic owners.

We are often confused of what true pit bulls are. In fact, many contend that
these dogs must not be called by that name since it elicits unwanted images of
gory dog fights. While this breed is not yet officially recognized by the
American Dog Breeders Association or the United Kennel Club, the legitimate
name remains to be American Pit Bull Terrier.

While it is true that American Pit Bull Terrier is violent in nature, this
doesn't imply that they are made purely for brutal stuffs. As we have earlier
said, these dogs are only products of maltreatment and exploitive training (and
inhumane) for self serving purposes. Otherwise, American Pit Bull Terriers can
be very people loving.

These are also known for their being hardworking on which they excel from. They
are also fond of excessive physical activities that would exhaust their power
reserves. Thus, this breed is great for those who need company during athletic
training. If you are the couch potato personality, please find another breed of
dog that would suit your lifestyle.

To clear things off, American Pit Bull Terrier are not officially recognized
not because of its ill reputation but mainly due to beliefs that it is not a
purebred. One major standard for a dog to be distinguished as member of Kennel
Clubs is that it should be purebred. Until more comprehensive findings on its
origin are found, this dog will remain unfortunately tagged as "nasty".

The Stylish and Reserved Dog: Scottish Terrier

The Scottish terriers, also known as Scotties, are short-legged British
terriers. They are one among other go-to-ground and wire-coated terriers
developed in the highlands of Scotland. The Scotties are said to have jaunty
attitude so they are often used to represent advertisements of the country to
where they originated.

However, Scotties' nature is not in coherence with their public image or
trademark. In fact, Scotties are like the citizens of his native land who are
independent, stoic, and fiercely loyal to their masters. They also adhere much
to their own privacy.

Scotties, Westies, and Cairns are very similar regarding their appearance. The
Westies and the Cairns are, in fact, closely-related. The Westie can be
considered as the white variety of the Cairn who has a coat of any color but
white. Westies are hybrids of white dogs crossed with Cairns of western
Scotland. Scotties, however, have longer heads and bodies, have generally dark
coats and are aloof than the other two.

The following are some of the basic facts breeders would really love to know
about Scotties:

Category: Terrier

Living Environment: either outdoor or indoor (mostly preferred by breeders)

Coat: wiry, short (about 2 inches) and thick

Colors: iron gray or steel, black, wheaten, or sandy; the coat may also be
brindled or grizzled

Height: about 10 inches

Weight: between 18 and 20 pounds

Temperament: they need to be praised frequently and they adapt with the moods
of the household

Breeders should note of the following health issues:

* Von Willibrand's disease (VWD), an inherited disorder 

* Flea allergies and other skin problems 

* Epilepsy 

* Jawbone disorders 

* Scottie cramp, a minor condition that causes walking difficulties 

* Cerebellar abiotrophy, a slow-to-progress and rare neurological disease that 
  causes loss of coordination

Care and Exercise:

* Their coats need special care to maintain its appearance and texture. It is
  suggested that they should be subjected to professional grooming once or 
  twice each year for their coats to stay wiry and firm. 

* The fur needs to be combed a couple of times in each week and even needs 
  occasional trimming. 

* Scotties' dead hairs should be plucked out through stripping. Using electric 
  clippers will only make their coats dull and soft. 

* Play with them. Hunting and squeaky balls and toys are their favorites. 

* They should be on leash while walking in public places.

Origin/History:

The origins of the breed are obscure. It was noted that forerunners of Scotties
were sent to France's Royal Highness by King James I of England during the 16th
century. Later on, three different terriers were revealed as Scotch Terriers,
which included the Westies, the Cairns, and the Scotties. The Dandie Dinmont
variety had also been noted as closely-related to the abovementioned terriers
but its apparent physical differences categorized itself as a separate breed.

Terrier dogs that were bred in Britain were developed to hunt vermin that ate
grains, and pestered eggs and poultry farms. Most breeds grew as scrappy and
courageous dogs and were trained to follow badgers or foxes into their dens.
Their wiry coats and soft undercoats protected them against rugged terrains and
harsh climates.

If you want to have a Scottie in your life, you should not be impulsive about
the matter for animosity and lack of proper training will only harm and
traumatize the dog. If properly taken cared of, this breed can even appoint
itself as a guardian of the family. It can also be fiercely loyal, that is it
can protect you even if it means endangering its own life.

To this effect, I guess you must agree that a Scottie is a dog that is second
to none.

Caring for Your Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier Pet Dog

The soft coated wheaten terrier would be considered by most people to be "high
maintenance". This means that a lot of care should be given to it in order to
maintain its stature. This statement also means that a lot of steps should be
taken in order to care for the dog properly. So how do you care for your soft
coated wheaten terrier pet dog?

Let us first talk about the coat. This is one of the most distinguishing
characteristics of a soft coated wheaten terrier pet dog. In fact, when you
take a look at the name, you will realize that the coat gives the dog its
identity. Taking care of this essential part of the soft coated wheaten terrier
dog can be quite a daunting task. This is especially true if you have just found
out about the various standards that people use to judge the beauty of a soft
coated wheaten terrier pet dog.

Frequent grooming is required to keep the coat shiny and to prevent matting. It
also helps get rid of any accumulated dirt. You should comb or brush your soft
coated wheaten terrier dog everyday to make sure that his coat remains silky
and tangle-free. The coat also needs to be trimmed once in a while to preserve
the "terrier look" and to allow a new coat to grow.

Besides the coat, you should also take care of the nails and teeth of your soft
coated wheaten terrier pet dog. In case that you do not know what to do by
yourself, you might want to hire some professional dog grooming services to do
the job for you.

Another aspect you should concentrate on is the training. Remember to train
your soft coated wheaten terrier dog as early as possible in order to ingrain
in him the basics of proper behavior. There are several keywords that should
come to your mind when training your soft coated wheaten terrier pet dog:

1) Consistency -- be consistent with your teaching. Do not use different
commands in order to get the same response as this will only serve to confuse
your soft coated wheaten terrier pet dog. You should also be consistent in
terms of reward and punishment. This will help your dog understand what you
want to happen.

2) Tone -- a soft coated wheaten terrier dog is actually pretty sensitive to
the tones in the human voice. This means that the dog will be able to tell if
you are feeling upset or if you are feeling impatient. You need to learn how to
moderate your tone in order to avoid confusion with your soft coated wheaten
terrier pet dog.

3) Timing -- learn the proper timing of when to correct your soft coated
wheaten terrier pet dog. The element you need during correction is surprise.
You need to correct the soft coated wheaten terrier for a mistake right after
or even before it performs the act. This way, you will be able to instill a
sense of consequence into your soft coated wheaten terrier pet dog.

Caring and training for your soft coated wheaten terrier can be quite a bit of
work. You will also have to contend with the energy inherent in every terrier
breed. However, with patience, your efforts will be rewarded.

Why Own a Norfolk Terrier Dog as Pet

If you are planning to get a Norfolk terrier pet dog, here are some things you
should know:

The Norfolk terrier originated from England. It is actually very affectionate
and does not exhibit a disagreeable nature. Because of this, many people like
to keep them as pets. However, there can be quite some difficulty housetraining
a Norfolk terrier pet dog. This is because of the fact that a Norfolk terrier
pet dog can be quite stubborn. The best method recommended for this breed is
crate training.

What is crate training? Well, it involves training your Norfolk terrier pet dog
to stay in a crate when it is left unsupervised. Used humanely, a crate can be a
great den for your Norfolk terrier pet dog. This will help your Norfolk terrier
pet dog when it needs some sort of privacy or alone time. This will also train
your Norfolk terrier pet dog not to soil around the house. One advantage of
crate training is the fact that you can be reassured that your pet will be safe
even if it is left unsupervised. Traveling will also be much more comfortable,
since your Norfolk terrier pet dog will have adjusted to his den.

A Norfolk terrier pet dog does not naturally shed its fur. This fact has a good
side and a bad side. On the good side, no shedding means no mess. This means
that they can be kept indoors without risk of leaving fur on your floor.
However, you do need to take your Norfolk terrier pet dog to a groomer twice a
year in order to strip the coat. This is done in order to promote the growth of
a new weather-resistant coat. In a sense, this allows your Norfolk terrier pet
dog to freshen up.

In order to properly care for the coat of your Norfolk terrier pet dog, you
need to brush it at least twice a day. This will help get rid of tangles and
prevent matting.

Ideally, a Norfolk terrier pet dog should be kept in a place with a fenced yard
so that it can have a large space to romp around. This is because of the fact
that Norfolk terrier pet dogs thrive on activity. Boredom for this breed
usually leads to destruction so you should try to keep it occupied.

The best quality that a Norfolk terrier pet dog exhibits is the ability to get
along with other pets. They also love children. This means that kids will have
a lot of fun with a Norfolk terrier pet dog. You should be careful however, as
Norfolk terrier pet dogs may perceive smaller animals as prey.

One thing that may be admired in a Norfolk terrier pet dog is the fact that
though it is not aggressive, it is generally a courageous breed. Because of
this, a Norfolk terrier pet dog can make an excellent watchdog. Another factor
that contributes to this is the fact that a Norfolk terrier pet dog is usually
very alert and will bark immediately to alert the family.

Before you get a Norfolk terrier pet dog, you need to make sure that you gather
as much information as possible. By understanding the different aspects of the
Norfolk terrier pet dog, you will make sure that you have the ability to care
for one.

The Loyal Working Companion Dog: American Pit Bull Terrier

This breed of dog, also fondly called as APBT, is known for its loyalty and
intelligence. The dogs with this breed make excellent companions since they are
very aggressive because of their protective nature.

How, then, are they different from the Staffies? For the UKC or the United
Kennel Club, Staffies and APBT are of the same breed but many disapprove of
this suggestion. For instance, if the American Kennel Club has an American
Staffordshire terrier, it will be registered as an American pit bull terrier by
the United Kennel Club. Furthermore, many breeders noted that their lineages
have been separate for a long time already for these dogs to be still
considered as having the same variety.

Meanwhile, the American Kennel Club does not register a UKC-listed American pit
as an American Staffie. In order to gain dual-registry, the dog must initially
be recorded as an AKC American Staffie before it can be listed with the UKC as
an American pit bull, and not the other way around.

The following are some of the basic facts breeders would really love to know
about APTBs:

Category: Terrier

Living Environment: either outdoor or indoor

Coat: smooth, shiny, thick, and short

Colors: color varies

Height: between 18 and 22 inches

Weight: between 30 and 60 pounds

Temperament: courageous, full of energy, and loyal; should be socialized early
on with other animals especially with children

Health Issues: heart murmurs and mange

Care and Exercise:

* Bathe when necessary. 

* Brush their coat only occasionally using a brush with firm bristles. 

* Rub down their coat with a towel or a chamois to remove hairs that are loose. 

* Their physique requires a regular exercise routine which includes a daily 
  play time and/or running along a bicycle while on a leash. 

* They should be on leash while walking in public places.

Origin/History:

The ancestors of
APBT came to the US in the mid-1800s with some Irish-Boston immigrants. Like
the Staffie, they were originally bred from bulldogs and terriers. Since APBT
is a forerunner to the Staffie, it was also molded to be a fighting dog.
However, the Americans made their variety some pounds heavier and trained them
to have a more powerful head.

Bull baiting and dog baiting were prohibited in England so bull terriers were
no longer bred for bouts. It is in America where the pit bull also gained its
popularity for many uses and reasons like:

1. It was used to embody the country in one WW1 artwork. 

2. Well-known companies like the Buster Brown Shoe Company and even RCA used 
   the breed as mascots. 

3. Petie, a pitbull, was one of the stars in, "Our Gang", a well sought 
   children's TV series. 

4. A mix breed called Stubby was transformed into a popular and decorated WW1 
   hero. 

5. Pits became good companies of pioneer families on their journeys. 

6. Jack, a working pit bulldog was owned by Laura Wilder of lines of books 
   called "Little House". 

7. Popular people like Helen Keller and US President Theodore Roosevelt owned 
   the variety.

Here is some history about the cause of dilemma regarding the registries of
APBTs.

In 1898, the United Kennel Club or UKC was structured to provide fighting
guidelines and registration for APBT as fighting dogs. Later, there were
breeders who shun away from dog fighting so they asked the AKC to recognize
their pits so they would be fit for performance events like dog shows.

In 1935, the AKC approved of their petitions but the dogs were registered as
Staffordshire Terriers, naming them after the little province in England that
the breed was known to have originated from. Thus, many breeders have dogs that
have dual-registry.

It is interesting to note that Petie, which was one of the stars in the, "Our
Gang" TV series was the first breed that was dual-registered to be
Staffordshire Terrier/Pit Bull. However, the UKC later started registering
other performing-type varieties and they also began holding dog shows
comparable to those of the American Kennel Club.

The AKC soon sealed its studbooks to APBTs. They allocated registration to
those pit breeds with lineages that are listed as Staffies. For a little time
during the 1970s, the AKC disclosed the American pits to their studbooks.

In 1973, the American KC decided to add the word "American" with the pit's name
to discriminate it from a Staffie. At present, those dogs with mixed
APTB-StaffIe parents are recognized by UKC and even the American Dog Breeders'
Association as "American pits or American pit bull terriers".

Nowadays, the pit has employed as search and rescuers, police/armed service
dogs, livestock workers, and even as therapy animals because they are good as
companions and working dogs.

Moreover, the variety can even compete in dog sports such as herding,
obedience, and conformation, French Ring, and Schutzhund. Breeds of this type
can be very loving as pets for everyone. The physical demands and harshness of
various activities developed a healthy, strong, and stable animal.

If you want to have an APBT as a pet, be sure that the puppy is handled well
and properly socialized. A solid and good training will surely produce an
obedient, tranquil, and good companion or even a working dog!

The Playful and Inquisitive Dog: Cairn Terrier

The Cairn is assumed as one of the subcategories of Scotland's terriers along
with the Westies (West Highland White) and the Scottish, The Westies and the
Cairns are highly related. For one, Westies are hybrids of white dogs crossed
with Cairns of western Scotland. The Westie can be considered as the white
variety of the Cairn who has a coat of any color but white. Scotties, however,
have longer heads and bodies, have generally dark coats and are aloof than the
other two. These dogs originated from the short-haired Skyes.

Cairn is the smallest breed among the terrier group. The name Cairn was coined
after the small stone piles that marked borders of Scottish farms and graves.
During the early times, this breed was used to guide small animals into these
piles of stones. However, cairns are strong and sturdy but are not heavy.

This dog was already present during the 1500s even before it became popular in
1930, after the appearance of "Toto" in "The Wizard of Oz" as Dorothy's
companion dog. Presently, like the American pit bull terriers, Cairns are used
as companion dogs. Among the variety's talents are tracking, watching over the
house, hunting, and performing tricks and sports regarding competitive
obedience.

The following are some of the basic facts breeders would really love to know
about Cairns:

Category: Terrier

Living Environment: indoors (highly recommended); outdoors (fenced yard)

Coat: shaggy and coarse outer coat and short and soft furry undercoat

Colors: any color except white

Height: between 9.5 and 10 inches

Weight: between 13 and 14 pounds

Temperament: like most terriers that were bred as hunters, these dogs are
mischievous, alert, restless and high-spirited; also have a special connection
with children age six and above

Breeders should note of the following health issues:

* Atopy, a type of allergy 

* Cataract, or loss of transparency of one or both lenses of the eyes 

* Cryptorchidism, wherein testicles do not descend into the scrotum 

* Glaucoma, a condition that causes an increase pressure within the eye

* Patellar luxation, a disorder in the kneecap

Care and Exercise:

* Daily brushing is recommended to prevent tangles and mats. 

* Hair around ears and eyes must be trimmed regularly. 

* Do not over feed them as they gain weight easily. 

* Their physique requires a regular exercise routine which includes a daily 
  play time while on leash. 

* They should be on leash while walking in public places because of their 
  hunting instincts.

Origin/History:

As already noted, the Cairns were existent since around the 1500s. At around
1700s, the Isle of Skye and other highlands in Scotland were already producing
lots of small terriers. Scottish breeds were separated into two: the Skye
terriers and the Dandie Dinmont terriers.

The Dandie Dinmonts were categorized as a separate breed. The Skyes included
the Scotties, the Westies, and the Cairns.

In the year 1912, the Cairns receive their official name based on their
excellent ability to hunt down vermin such as otters, foxes, and badgers that
were hiding in cairns. However, it was in the year 1913 when they received the
official recognition from the American Kennel Club.

The Cairn terrier is one heck of an agile little dog that is very appropriate
for the whole family. This breed is playful, prying, and is always ready to
join the fun. If you are still not convinced, just reckon how Dorothy was
entertained and accompanied by this type of dog.

Some Facts on the Breed Temperament of Terrier Dogs

From the funny little pals to the more aggressive ones, terrier dogs definitely
have wide spectrum of temperaments and dispositions that anyone would find
interesting. In fact, any kind of owner would fit with the various
characteristics that this breed can show. Beware though for some can be very
mischievous while others can display timidity.

Terriers are primarily bred to help hunters in catching vermin, otter, foxes,
rats and the likes. Newer breeds though tend to be so domesticated that they
are now included in the companion and toy breeds.

As with many other dog breeds, terrier dogs have diverse characteristics that
set one type from another. A number of owners find them as faithful in their
families and are always ready to protect the home to which he has accustomed
himself with. Distinguished excellent guardians, many dogs from this breed can
easily determine well-intentioned strangers from those who mean harm.

This instinct to protect probably rooted from the earlier breeds which were
originally used in bloody dog fights. Since the banning of this sport, many
breeders resulted to producing more docile dogs for homes. Through innumerable
cross-breedings, keen and protective terriers were produced.

Some notable terriers of this disposition are American Stafforshire Terrier or
AmStaff, Airedale Terrier and Bedlington Terrier.

One of the major features terrier dogs have is their capability to respond well
to training. In fact, some types are endowed with natural intelligence which
makes them fit for obedience training and ring shows. Some terriers with this
disposition need lots of activities that would challenge them mentally. Those
included in this type must be given enough training so as to refrain them from
being destructive out of boredom. Unlike larger breeds though with much
intelligence, most terrier dogs will not make as much damage.

Some of this type also has the determination and dignified disposition that
give them the air of confidence.

Some terrier dogs are fun loving and humorous in some sense. They are lively,
frolic and gay which provide entertainment for their families and has become
the favorites for many centuries.

Social terriers meanwhile should be given enough social environment so as to
ready them as they mature. Most terriers with this disposition tend to dominate
other dogs when they have come to their ideal age to assume authority. The bull
terrier types could best display this temperament.

Surprisingly, some of the smallest terriers are among the toughest. Take the
case of Cairn dogs. For their relatively small size and the stocky built, they
still portray the disposition of being always ready when the need for activity
arrives.

Many types of this breed though still retain the true terrier disposition. That
is, hunting. Yet, significant with such dogs are their keenness to human
companionship which make them both good ratters and affectionate pets.

Others still have the power, speed and endurance that many of their ancestors
possessed. While some may be repressed due to domestication, many of them can
manifest whenever the drives arise.

This breed is quite old. In fact, many of them had been existing since time
immemorial. It's not surprising that they have various characters that an owner
can either detest or love.

Information about Welsh Terrier Dogs

Welsh terrier dogs were originally bred as hunting dogs. However, this native
breed of Wales soon rose to become show dogs. Breeders attempted to outdo each
other by developing the Welsh terrier dogs' wiry coats and coloration. People
often take a Welsh terrier dog as a pet because it is one of the most
mild-mannered of terriers.

You might think that this characteristic would make it one of the more boring
terriers. In fact, even the most die-hard terrier fan can have fun with this
breed. This is because of the fact that Welsh terrier dogs love to play. This
makes the Welsh terrier dog a great companion.

Although not as high-energy as other breeds, this dog still is a terrier, which
means that it still does contain some high levels of energy. Because of this, it
is advised that they be given proper exercise regularly. Another good advice to
follow is to properly socialize the dog at an early age. This would help the
dog be friendlier towards humans and would help the dog to develop a good
tolerance of other animals. It is generally friendly around children, provided
that the children do not provoke or pester it too much.

The Welsh terrier dog can be trained using different methods. What you need to
keep in mind when training a Welsh terrier dog is that you can be firm but
gentle. The Welsh terrier dog can be taught to perform a variety of tricks.
This breed actually can do very well in fly ball tricks or tricks that involve
catching flying things such as a Frisbee.

You should brush a Welsh terrier dog's hair at least once a week in order to
remove dead or loose hair. This would help prevent unnecessary shedding inside
the house. Although regular bathing is not really required, it is advisable
that you wipe off dust and dirt from your dog regularly using a damp washcloth.

Because of its high energy level, it is advisable that a Welsh terrier dog be
kept in a fenced in yard. This will give the dog enough space to play catch.
However, if you take it out regularly to give it exercise, a Welsh terrier dog
can do without the yard.

One thing that always gets people's attention is the Welsh terrier dog's
excellent ability to jump. Because of this ability, it is sure to provide a lot
of amusement to people. The main reason that it can jump and hop like it does is
its long legs. It is because of these legs that a Welsh terrier dog can perform
various tricks that other dog breeds are unable to do.

Why do you need to know all these things about Welsh terrier dogs? First of
all, understanding these facts will help you discover the best way to take care
of a Welsh terrier dog. Understanding these facts will also allow you to decide
whether a Welsh terrier dog will make the best pet for you.

By learning all you can about Welsh terrier dogs, you get the knowledge
necessary to provide the needs of your pet. This means that you will be able to
develop a good, caring relationship with your pet.

Of course, learning all that you can about Welsh terrier dogs is not really
easy. But you need to remember that life sometimes requires sacrifices to be
made.


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