Miniature German Shepherd Dog

You must have heard about miniature German shepherd dogs. But are they purebred dogs? Are they friendly? Let us find the answers to all these queries here.The German shepherd dog (GSD) or the Alsatian is one of the most popular breeds of dogs in the world. As the name suggests, this breed of dog originated in Germany. When we hear the word 'German shepherd', we picture a strong and huge dog which is well-known as the guard dog. Smaller or miniature German shepherd dogs are comparatively unknown. You may be wondering if miniature German shepherd dogs exist at all. Let us, once and for all, clear this confusion through the following section.

All About Miniature German Shepherds

When we hear people mentioning the miniature Alsatian or the German shepherd, they are actually referring to the breed of dog that is similar to the actual German shepherd in its temperament and physical appearance, but is smaller in size. Miniature German shepherd dogs are so small that they can be considered as lapdogs. Many dog breeders also claim that this is one of the rarest breeds of dog and hence, they are priced higher. However, the first thing you need to take into consideration is that, no such breed called miniature German shepherd actually exists. It means, although you may find smaller German shepherd dogs, it is not a recognized breed of dog.

You should note that a German shepherd is 22-26 inches tall (males are 24-26 inches, while females are 22-24 inches). They are muscular, strong and heavy. They have a brown, tan or black-colored coat and brown eyes. They have a thick fur and a bushy tail. It is essential to note that a pure breed Alsatian is never short or miniature, unless it is either crossbred or suffering from dwarfism.

Crossbreeds
The German shepherds are often mated with the same variety to maintain their pure breed. However, there are times when breeders cross German shepherd dogs with other smaller breeds of dogs like border collies, fox terriers, poodles, etc. This results in having smaller breeds of German shepherds, which are popularly known as the miniature GSD or miniature Alsatian. As mentioned above, this is an unregistered breed of dog, and definitely not recognized by the American Kennel Club. Cross breeding between dogs is often looked down upon by those looking for pure breed varieties. Therefore, sometimes, the mini GSD is also tagged as a false breed of dog. So, if you are looking for a pure breed of the Alsatian, you should look for the original breed of dog, which is larger in size.

Dwarfism
Now, on the other hand, it may be a possibility that the miniature German shepherd, which you have seen is not a new breed, but actually a dwarf German shepherd. Dwarfism is a genetic disorder which leads to a short stature. This disorder is found in humans as well as dogs. If the German shepherd is suffering from this disorder, it may remain small in size and will not grow to its usual height. These dogs are usually sterile and suffer from severe hair loss at an early age. Pituitary dwarfism in GSD is quite rare and is accompanied with a series of other medical conditions. If dwarf GSD male and female are mated, they have dwarf puppies. It may be possible that this technique is used to breed dogs, which are known as miniature German shepherds.

Therefore, as there are two different possibilities, it is essential for the buyer to look for proper and thorough information about the dog breed before buying. Breeding a dwarf GSD is not an easy job as these dogs suffer from several medical conditions. On the other hand, you can go for a crossbred miniature German shepherd dog, if you do not mind having a crossbred pet.

Having all the information about a miniature German shepherd is essential before buying one. The mini GSD can be a good pet dog because of its good temperament; however, it is essential for buyers to not to be fooled by breeders who claim these miniatures as rare and hence, heavily priced.

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Facts about Hairless Sphynx Cat

Sphynx cats are one of the rare cat breeds that are popular because of their strange and bizarre looks. Interested to know about them? If yes, then this fact sheet is surely going to leave you amazed!What comes to your mind when you think of a cat? A small, furry feline species that has been domesticated by humans. This might be true for most types of cats, but, it is not so in case of Sphynx cats. This breed is quite different from other cats and are found rarely. Due to this fact, they have become quite popular among cat owners. Sphynx cats are said to have elements of best qualities of cats and dogs which make them a wonderful pet to live with. Wondering what makes this breed so different from other cats? Then go through the facts listed below.

Interesting Sphynx Cat Facts

History
The most striking feature of Sphynx cat is that it has very less or no fur. That is why, it is generally referred to as a 'hairless cat'. The first breeding session of these cats began in the year 1966 in Canada. A domestic Shorthair cat had given birth to hairless kittens, which were then selectively bred to produce next generation of hairless cats. These cats were called "Canadian Sphynx" or "The Canadian Hairless". As time passed by, people began referring to them as "Sphynx" which was then considered as their official name. So, every Sphynx cat is a descendant of the same domestic short-haired cat.

Characteristics
Sphynx is a muscular cat with a barrel-shaped chest, round belly and medium body length. It has a flat forehead with a wedge-shaped skull. Cheekbones are extremely prominent on the long skull. A whisker zone can be prominently observed on a Sphynx cat's face. It has big oval-shaped eyes that extend upwards towards its ears. Its eye color can range from blue, green to hazel. Ears are large with a wide base and a narrow tip. Back legs are longer than front legs with thick oval-shaped paws. It has a thick, flexible tail which tapers towards the end.

Sphynx cat is found in various colors and patterns like cream, chocolate, white, black, cinnamon, spotted, patched, etc. Its color depends on the pigment of the skin. If left in the sun for a long duration, its color tends to darken. Even though the cat is considered hairless, it still has a very fine coat of fur. The skin of body, face and legs is wrinkled as compared to remaining body parts. The whisker zone might be distinct but it lacks their presence.

Behavior
This breed of cats is very friendly and fun-loving. It loves to bond with people and is affectionate towards them. Apart from being social, it loves to be the center of attention. Its loving, playful and lively personality makes it a great companion for children. Not only with humans, this cat can also get along very well with other cats and cat-friendly animals. A comfortable warm place is something this cat looks out for sleeping. So, you should not be surprised if you find your pet cat sleeping under your bed covers!

Habitat
The best place to live for a Sphynx cat is indoors. It does not have difficulty in adjusting to live in an apartment. The reason why this breed needs an indoor living arrangement is that, their body is not so capable of surviving adverse environmental conditions. Due to absence of fur, a Sphynx cat does not enjoy cold conditions and prefers to avoid sleeping on cold surfaces. Outdoor arrangements can be made, but the area must be enclosed from all sides including the roof. To prevent them from boredom, adventure activities must be arranged to keep them busy and happy.

Grooming
It can be easily thought that a Sphynx cat would not require grooming as they lack fur. But, this is not true. Rather, it needs grooming almost every week. Oil secreted by the body is generally absorbed by body fur, but as this cat lacks fur, all the body oil secreted starts building up. Therefore, cleaning the cat once a week is sufficient to keep it well-groomed. Apart from this, wax buildup in the ear must also be cleaned regularly. A bath can be given once a month to keep it nice and clean.

Health
Anesthetic agents can be quite dangerous for a Sphynx cat. A cat suffering from kidney or liver problems is more susceptible to have this problem. A heredity condition known as Feline Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy (HCM) may develop in some cats. Therefore, it is advisable to get a pet cat from a breeder that undertakes regular examining of the disease in Sphynx cats. Kittens are susceptible to respiratory infections during initial weeks of life. Cancer of the skin can also be a problem, if the cat is exposed to long periods of sunlight. Immunization is necessary and can be done in a similar way like other cats.

Few More Fast Facts Sphynx cats are believed to have originated in ancient Egypt.Their hairless body is due to mutation of a recessive gene.Their weight falls under the range of 3.5-7.0 kg. Females weigh less than their male counterparts.People find them slimy to touch, but the fact is, they are very soft and warm to touch.Sphynx cats can also trigger allergic reactions in sensitive people despite the absence of fur on their body.Their diet is huge in relation to their body size because of their body's fast metabolism. In winters, they need a diet with high amount of calories to keep their body warm.A Sphynx cat can live up to 15 years or more!The most popular Sphynx cat in today's times is Mr. Bigglesworth.Sphynx cats are not only affectionate, but are also very intelligent. They can easily adjust to an indoor environment. All you need to give them is a scratching pole, some toys and few modes of entertainment and they will be a lifelong friend to you and your family. Like This Article? Please Share!

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Behavior and Temperament of Dalmatians

This breed of dogs was made immensely popular by the success of the movie, 101 Dalmatians, and now they are regularly amongst the top 20 popular breeds over the world. This article will cover the basic areas of this breed, like history, physical features, temperament, personality, health, breeding, and what kind of family would be suitable to adopt a dalmatian as a pet.Dalmatians are also known as carriage dogs, because they used to trot alongside carriages in the past, presumably to keep the people in the carriage safe from harm. Then they were appointed as escort dogs and companion dogs too. These dogs are excellent companions if they are trained properly, and hence they have been able to sustain their popularity. Let us get to know the details about this breed, in the following paragraphs.

Physical Characteristics and Intelligence

Dalmatians are a medium-sized breed. They are characterized by irregular black or liver spots on their white coats. They fall under the category of 'square outline', meaning they are well built dogs, and quite muscular. The head of the dalmatian is broad and flat between the ears, and their eyes are spaced wide apart, and are round and bright, in a shade of brown and gray. They do not have standing ears unlike some other dog breeds, but their ears fall around their face. They have a long neck and long legs, and their chest is deep. They have a level top line, and tapering tails. They have a short, white base coat. Dalmatians have a rhythmic gait, and walk with long, smooth strides. Dalmatians have a lot of strength and stamina, and as such they do not tire easily.

Dalmatians are utility dogs. In the early days, dalmatians were used for pulling carts, hunting, circus performances, border patrols, retrieving, and were also adopted by fire departments (gaining another nickname called firehouse dogs), during the 1800s since they got on well with horses, and ran behind them. They are intelligent animals, and they are eager to please their masters and learn new things and tricks. Dalmatians pick up new things pretty quickly and they are very determined dogs, so they are a delight to train as well. They can be trained in various dog-agility exercises, as well as to participate in games like horse riding, jogging, fly ball, etc. Dalmatians respond well to praise and rewards, and this is often used to help them learn difficult tasks, specially if they are unwilling or reluctant.

Their height and weight are as follows:

Temperament

Dalmatians are dignified, loyal, playful and very active dogs. They are of even temperament if they are trained properly and socialized at an early age. If they are not socialized at an early age, they tend to become aggressive towards others, and possessive of their families. Dalmatians form strong bonds with their families and if they are given up, they are known to cry and pine for their owners, and some starve themselves to death. Getting home a dalmatian is lots of commitment, so it is best to first analyze whether you are up for the job. It is just not done, if you get him for a while, and when his upkeep becomes cumbersome, you leave him back at the shelter! It's inhumane. The right training and socializing will make them even and pleasant tempered, and they get along well with other dog breeds. Although they get along with horses the best, as this connection dates back several centuries, when dalmatians first ran along with horses and came to be fondly recognized as carriage dogs.

The way a dalmatian behaves depends largely on the social environment he is brought up in. If he is brought up in a loving and playful environment, he will become loyal and affectionate, but if he is brought up in an abusive environment, he will become aggressive and will develop a tendency to attack often if he feels that he is being threatened. Dalmatians are pretty stubborn dogs, so they have to be taught to be obedient as soon as they are ready to learn, or the owner can expect a handful later on. Early training, in obedience and leadership will make sure that your dalmatian will listen to you, and be a good and docile (well, mostly!) companion. Dalmatians are also prone to shyness, and this can hamper their lifestyle, if they are not socialized properly, to help them overcome their shyness. They are outgoing and friendly dogs and are suitable companions for children.

Life Span and Health Issues

The average life span of a dog is between 14 - 16 years. This is quite long in terms of dog years, so before deciding to get a dalmatian as a pet, you should consider the commitment that is going to be required for the next 15 years of your life, and then decide whether you are up for it. After the movie, 101 Dalmatians was released, this breed saw a surge in popularity, but since they were adopted or bought just because they were in fashion, many owners left them when they couldn't cope with the maintenance. Thousands of dalmatians were euthanized around that time, when no one was ready to adopt the castaways. It was a terrible scenario.

Along with living a long life, there are certain health issues that dalmatians are prone to. They are susceptible to ear infections, kidney and liver problems. Dalmatians should not be kept cooped up all day, and should be allowed to relieve themselves whenever they feel the need to do so. Inability to do so, will exacerbate the kidney problems, with possibility of kidney stones. Another genetic condition that they are prone to is deafness. Statistics reveal that almost 30% of all dalmatians suffer from deafness, and this usually presents itself in the first 4 - 6 weeks after the pup is born. Dalmatians are also prone to hypo-pigmentation, around the eyes and nose, and this condition worsens with age. Taking care of a dalmatian is not very difficult, but it's not something that can be taken casually either.

Grooming

Dalmatians have short, glossy and dense coats. They shed throughout the year. But since they have a short coat, their shedding can be managed so that it does not become a major issue. Daily brushing in the mornings will reduce the shedding inside the house throughout the day. Dalmatians require a bath every 8 - 10 weeks, which is not very frequent. Unless instructed by the vet for some reason, avoid bathing your dalmatian frequently. At the most, once a month is fine, to prevent dog odor.

Space and Maintenance Required

Dalmatians require a lot of exercise, since they are very playful and energetic dogs. You can either play catch with your dog, or take him jogging with you, or on a brisk walk. If that is not possible on a daily basis, then maybe you can design a pet friendly garden and allow your pet to remain free and play in the garden. If dalmatians are not given the basic exercise they require, they become bored and this may lead them to become aggressive and moody. Dalmatians also require grooming, although not to a great extent. They need regular brushing to help reduce the shedding inside the house and a bath once a month will do. If you stay in a flat then getting a dalmatian may not really be suitable, because they do require a lot of space to run around and burn off their excess energy. Besides which, if you are not in the physical condition to take him for walks or play with him, then it is a better idea to opt for a smaller breed.

As regards the food and health and litter maintenance, it is necessary to keep a tab on his health by conducting regular visits to the vet. A dalmatian will produce a litter of 8 - 12 puppies at a time. Dalmatians are good eaters, not very fussy. But they do require a good breed dog food so that they can maintain good health and avoid any health issues. All the vaccinations, and medicines should be given as and when prescribed by the vet, to avoid the spiral of a petty illness into a full blown disease. Over all, this is a pretty robust breed, so once all the vaccinations are taken care of, they should not develop any health issues. The only caution required is in the area of urination, and ear infection, which can be avoided by letting them free, and cleaning their ears frequently, respectively.

Suitability as a Pet

The following candidates are suitable as dalmatian owners: Active familiesFamilies without toddlersYoung, sporty peoplePeople who are physically and financially able to handle the energetic breedElderly people should avoid getting a dalmatian as a pet, because they will find it difficult to satisfy the playful side of the vivacious breed. Similarly, this breed can get carried away when excited, so although they are good companions for kids, it is best to keep them away from toddlers.

Dalmatians form great bonds with the families that adopt them, so they are good pets. But they do require enough time from their masters or they feel lonely. Keeping a dalmatian as a pet requires a great deal of time and patience, but I'll say it is worth it. They are one of the best companions you can count on, at any time!

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What to Know To Select the Right Puppy Food

How do you know which is the best food to feed you new puppy? This is the question confronting all new puppy owners. After all, there are many different brands on the market. You may think they are all the same - or at least probably OK - but this is actually far from the case. There are many foods that are simply not good; they will not only fail to give your pup the nutrition it needs (no matter what the packaging says) but the food may even cause health problems later in the animal's life. Poor quality food is increasingly recognized as one of the major causes of health problems in dogs.

By getting a puppy in the first place you really have a responsibility to do the best that you can regarding its nutrition. The early years are also the most important in a dog's life. It is here that you lay down the foundations for its health later in life. Take that responsibility seriously by finding out a bit about pet nutrition and making the best decision you can.

Obviously, where you bought the puppy from will probably give you some advice on what to feed. It might be a good idea to continue with the same food they have been using but it is by no means essential. Be aware too that the person you are buying the puppy from may have other reasons for using the food they do, such as costs or getting a special deal from the pet food company. And just because they may be a professional is no guarantee that they know much about pet nutrition either.

You should look into the quality of various foods yourself and there is really only one way to do this and that is to look at the ingredients and know what they mean. Puppy foods should always have a named meat (such as lamb or chicken) as the first ingredient listed on the label. Stay away from foods containing wheat or other cereals, soy, beef, animal fat, meat meal or by products. These are all of limited nutritional value and can also cause allergies in puppies. And of course anything artificial such as flavorings, colorings or preservatives should be avoided completely; there is simply no place for them in a puppy's diet.

For your puppy's sake, give it the best start in life with the right puppy food. That cheap bag may have attractive packaging and say all sorts of things on the label. But the ingredients will really tell you the true story as to whether it is going to be something good for your puppy or not.

For more about choosing the right puppy food for your pet visit http://www.petfooddirect.co.nz/

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How To Naturally Calm an Anxious or Stressed Dog

Does your dog get anxious during a thunderstorm, car rides, or at the vet? Many dogs struggle with anxiety at different levels. There are several treatments for dog anxiety and stress, but the hard part is finding natural treatments that work. Dogs can become destructive, scared, and noisy if you don't resolve this issue. In this article we will discuss the various methods available for natural dog calming.

Natural Dog Calming treatments come in different forms, such as supplements, aromatherapy, and pressure treatments. But before you go out and find a treatment for anxiety, there is a solution you could try at home without purchasing anything. Many dogs today are being left at home all day in a room or crate without space to move around. They have a high level of built up energy that needs to be used. You could take a walk with your dog in the morning or evening to expend some of that energy. If walking is not for you, try a fetch toy and train your dog to bring it back to you after each throw. These methods may solve the problem and wear your dog out enough to take the edge off.

Natural Calming Remedies such as Pro Calm by K9 Granola Factory focus on herbs as a means to calm dogs. They utilize Kava Kava and Valerian Root to relieve tension and anxiety. One of the wonderful things about herbal methods is they are not addictive. Herbs have been used for a long time with great results in both humans and animals. Kava Kava and Valerian Root do not sedate like tranquilizers. Your dog will still have the mental and physical capacities they had before, just calmer. Many trainers in the dog show industry use these herbs to help dogs focus for their events. Most herbal treatments have a quick effect (usually within 20 minutes). This means you can plan ahead for what triggers your dog and take care of it before it begins.

The essential oil of lavender is used to calm dogs. The scent of lavender has been known to calm humans and animals alike for many years. Spot Organics Chill aromatherapy spray uses lavender as the active ingredient. It's easy to use, just spray on the dog bed, or directly on your dog's neck or back.

Thundershirts are the most common form of pressure treatment for dog anxiety. It works by applying gentle constant pressure to the dogs' body and in return you have a calmer dog. Pressure treatment has been used with much success in both dogs and humans.

Dogs are naturally wired and we now know how to naturally calm them. There is no need to have sleepless nights or destructive car rides because of an anxious dog. Natural calming treatments are an affordable and healthier way to calm your dog with a great success rate. Try one today and get rid of the anxiety caused by dogs in your home.

About Brandon Fritz:

Brandon Fritz, owner of NaturalPetWarehouse.com provides pet owners with the best natural dog stress and anxiety treatment products available. They also sell a wide variety of vitamins and supplements that cover a multitude of conditions.

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Is It A Good Idea To Sleep With Your Dog?

Opinions vary on this subject. Some go so far as saying that sleeping with your dog can make you ill, while others say it won't hurt to let your dog sleep in your bed. It has been well established that having a dog has many benefits. They give you companionship and comfort, and even a will to live. Pet owners have to make the decision if sleeping with their dog is what is best for them.

A recent survey by the American Pet Products Association has shown nearly half of pet owners sleep with their dog. Some pet lovers insist they sleep better with their beloved pet, but it can be a real problem for owners that have allergies or asthma. Allergies can be much more severe when your dog sleeps with you.

Another problem with sharing your bed with your dog--interrupting your sleep. Some dogs move around, scratch, get in and out of the bed, bark, or even snore. If you are not a sound sleeper, this can be a problem for the pet owner. It does affect your health when you do not get a good night's sleep.

If you do decide to sleep with your pet, you must be sure he is well taken care of. Dogs can have fleas, ticks, and possibly worms that can be transmitted to you. It is uncommon with healthy pets, but there is a risk for transmission of zoonotic agents by having close contact between dogs and humans due to licking, kissing or sharing the same bed. There is a concern about the spread of zoonoses, which is defined as an infectious diseases that can be transferred from animals to humans. Dog owners that have a weak immune system should be extra careful. Your pet needs to be kept clean and have regular visits to the veterinarian so they may be treated for fleas and ticks, and also checked for worms.

A possible solution to avoid problems with sleeping with your dog may be to get your best buddy their own dog bed and place it next to your bed. Pet beds come in many different sizes and styles that will fit the size of your dog, and accommodate they way they like to sleep. It may help to put their favorite dog toy in their bed. It can take a while to make this transition, but in the end you may both get a better night's sleep and perhaps you will have fewer health problems.

Find high quality, eco friendly dog beds at http://www.petbedsplusmore.com/. Our beds come in many different styles, sizes and colors that will fit any decor. We also have cat bedding, dog toys, cat toys, and other eco friendly products.

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Methods For Maintaining Your Dog's Healthy Coat Condition

The condition of a dog's coat is often an indicator of their general wellbeing, and a thin, dry or scruffy coat can be the first physical sign of poor health. Ensuring your dog maintains a healthy coat is particularly important during the winter, when they need their thick, strong coat to help them cope with the cold.

There are a number of ways you can look after your dog's coat, and this article will explore some of the best treatments and methods to use.

A dog's diet can have a major influence on the health of their coat. While it's true that dogs, with their wild scavenger instincts, are able to eat just about anything, it is always best to stick to a diet that gives them a good balance of nutrients to keep them in the best shape possible. There is a huge amount of information online and in books on dietary requirements for different dog breeds, and your vet will also be able to offer you some good advice on this subject.

Exercise is also crucial to keeping your dog healthy and ensuring their coat stays in good condition. Dogs that are stressed or bored are prone to scratch or chew themselves, so it is important that they have the opportunity to burn of their excess energy. Make sure they get out the house frequently and have a regular exercise regime, and leave some chewy toys around to keep them occupied when they are at home.

Another important part of maintaining your dog's coat, and one which can often be neglected, is grooming. A good idea is to bathe your dog with a herbal shampoo designed specifically for dogs. A shampoo containing Pennyroyal extract (Mentha Pulegium) is ideal because it will leave the coat clean and will also repel fleas and mites. Remember never to use human shampoo because the PH of a dog's skin will be different to ours. Brushing your dog will also be a major help, as this will remove dead skin and distribute the natural oils in his fur.

There are a number of herbal supplements and treatments that can be given to dogs as part of their daily diet, and the choice of which one you should use will depend on the type of dog you have. Kelp seaweed is a good treatment for dogs experiencing poor hair growth, and though it should be used sparingly in the summer, it is ideal to give during the winter months to improve coat growth. Evening primrose oil is another good herbal supplement that can be added to food, and will help to reduce shedding and promote a long healthy coat.

In summary, any signs of a dry, scruffy or patchy coat need to be treated with concern, as they may be symptomatic of broader health problems your dog is experiencing. A good exercise regime, regular grooming and balanced diet should generally be enough to keep your dog's coat thick and silky, and herbal supplements can also be very helpful in this regard.

Dorwest is the UK's leading supplier of herbal remedies for dogs. For more information on canine supplements and other coat condition treatments, visit the Dorwest Herbs website.

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