Most people wouldn’t think to go a day or two without out combing their hair, let alone a week or two. Whether your dog has short or long hair, he still requires grooming to maintain a healthy, shiny coat.
It is important to comb or brush his hair, inspect his coat and bathe him as required. This will prevent his hair from tangling and becoming matted. Tangled and matted hair will be uncomfortable for your pet, and in a worse case scenario, affect his health adversely. They can create sores, making it hurt for your pet to be touched. Regular grooming will keep your pet looking good and feeling good.
In addition to preventing tangling, brushing a dog’s coat is an ideal way to distribute the animal’s natural oils. In doing so, it also removes loose hair, stimulates the skin, loosens dirt and dander, as well as, any other materials which may have become stuck in it. When grooming, you should also check the dog’s skin for any signs of inflammation, infection, irritation or parasite infestation.
Dogs with shorter haired coats require less grooming than dogs with longer haired coats but they do require some attention. Many shorthaired dogs have a dandruff problem from frequent shedding. They require daily brushing. You should use a soft bristled brush on shorthaired dogs, or a hound glove with short wire bristles in the palm. This will remove the dead hair and dirt. Follow up with a soft cloth to wipe any remaining loose hair. If using a comb, choose a fine toothed one. Begin with the head and work your way down the dog’s body to its tail and legs.
Dogs with longer hair will require more frequent grooming sessions. A short time every day to accomplish this will make the task easier. Once again, start at the head and brush or comb the direction of the dog’s hair. For dogs with a thick undercoat, lift the hair and brush under the coat to remove dead hair. Wire pin or slicker brushes are ideal for longer coats, as the brush should have long firm bristles to pull the dead hair. And if using a comb after the brushing, a wide toothed comb is the better option.
As a general rule, dogs should not be bathed more than three or four times a year unless excessively dirty. More frequent bathing will remove their protective natural oils and cause a dandruff problem. Those with long silky coats may require weekly bathing. Before bathing a dog, it is important to brush its coat well to remove dead, loose hair, as well as, loosen tangles or mattes. You can use any gentle, tearless dog shampoo. If your dog has skin conditions or fleas you may need to use a special shampoo. Make sure you don’t get shampoo in his eyes and to rinse thoroughly. It is important to remove all shampoo so as to not cause itching, flaking and skin problems. Then, wrap the dog in a towel and dry. You can blow dry on the lowest setting possible with the blow dryer far enough away from the dog, so it won’t get burned.
Another part of the grooming process is to clip the dog’s toenails. Use clippers and be careful not to cut to the quick, which is where the blood supply ends. Make sure you have some styptic powder on hand in case you do cut into the quick. This will stop the bleeding. Also, make sure you brush your dog’s teeth. Use soft bristled toothbrush and dog toothpaste.
This is also a good time to inspect and clean your dog’s ears. Slightly wet a cotton ball, with an ear cleaner, and wipe the folds of the skin. If you notice a foul smell or wax buildup, then you should have your veterinarian check for possible infection.
The grooming process may seem like a chore, but it can be a positive experience for both you and your pet. It is an ideal way to keep your companion healthy. The interaction that comes with this will turn this chore into an enjoyable and bonding experience for you both.

Dog Adoption, Dog Allergies, Dog Breeding, Dog Breeds, Dog Grooming, Dog Health, Dog Training, Dogs Hide

Hypoallergenic dogs are a great solution for would be dog owners that have allergies. Many dog lovers that thought they would never be able to own a dog because of the uncontrollable symptoms to pet dander, may not have considered a hypoallergenic dog. A small number of dog breeds are considered hypoallergenic, meaning they do not cause allergic reactions, either because they shed only small amounts of hair or because their dog dander is not allergy producing. Keep in mind that there is no such thing as a non-allergenic dog or a non-shedding dog, a common misconception by some owners with allergy problems that purchase dogs believing they will be cured of dog dander issues. Although the amount of allergy producing dander will be reduced with a hypoallergenic dog, owners still need to go through a regular routine to ensure that pet dander from pet hair is removed from their environment. It is important to recognize that it isnâ??t the pet hair itself causing the allergic reaction, but the dander that comes off when the dog shedding occurs. Dogs that make little to no dander are the dogs that are considered hypoallergenic dogs and will be best suited for a home with someone who is allergy sensitive. What Causes Dog Allergies… As previously noted, it is not the actual dog or even the hair of the dog, but the dander that flakes off the skin and causes allergies. Unfortunately, this dander can easily be carried throughout the house when it attaches to the hair of the dog, falls onto the floor, couches or beds of a home, causing potential allergens to be spread throughout the home. Keep in mind that many humans with allergies will make the mistake of buying a hairless dog or a short-haired dog thinking they will produce less allergens than a long-haired breed. This is not always the case. In fact, some medium to long-haired dogs produce little to no dander, while other short haired dogs produce a lot of dander. Remember that all dogs produce dander, it is just that some produce a great deal less than others. Tips for Reducing Pet Allergens… 1. Purchase a high suction vacuum that can quickly and effectively remove almost all pet dander from the home. Use this on a daily to weekly basis as needed. 2. Find a large air purifier that can be used in the main areas of the house. Keep the air purifier running at all times in order to effectively reduce dander. Remember to clean the purifier on a regular basis as well. 3. Brush your pet 2-3 times a day. Give dogs a bath at least once a week to remove excess dander. Do this outside so that dander will not collect in part of the home. 4. Limit dog access to your sleeping and sitting areas. Regularly wash sheets, curtains, pillow covers, table clothes and any other removable upholstery covers.A List of Hypoallergenic Dog Breeds… Afghan Hound American Hairless Terrier Basenji Bedlington Terrier Bichon Frise Border Terrier Chinese Crested Dog German Shorthaired Pointer Greyhound Italian Greyhound Irish Water Spaniel King Blue Terrier Lhasa Apso Maltese Mexican Hairless Peruvian Ina Poodles (all) Portuguese Water Dog Schnauzers (all) Shih Tzu Yorkshire Terrier Wheaten Terrier Whippet Also, if you have allergies and are considering the purchase of a hypoallergenic dog, it might be wise to spend as much time as possible around the dog beforehand to see how you will react. By doing so, it might save you, and the dog, from the emotional turmoil of having to give up your new friend if you find your allergenic reactions too strong. Even though author Richard Livitski doesn’t suffer from dog allergies, he is sympathetic toward those who do, so he wrote this article to help. He does though run a dog names website http://www.dog-names-and-more.com where dog names as well as grooming, training, and dog care tips can be found.

Allergy Free Dogs, Dog Breeds, Dog Dander, Hypoallergenic Dogs, Non Allergenic, Non Shedding Dogs Hide

Miniature dog breeds are very popular because their small size means they are better suited to apartments or houses with small backyards. Additionally, they are easier to control than very large dogs, and are generally cheaper to keep. They need less food and medication, though vet consultations are a standard price. Even with longer haired miniature dogs, it is easier to keep them brushed and groomed compared to their larger cousins.
Just because a dog is small, however, does not mean that they all share the same temperament or activity levels. Some of these dogs come from a background where they were used for hunting, like the miniature dachshund, and others, like the Tibetan spaniel, bark a lot. The latter would thus not be ideal for apartment living, unless you have very accommodating neighbors, or a sound proof apartment.
Small breeds that need a lot of exercise include the dachshund, the Italian greyhound, and the Australian Terrier. Breeds like the maltese, pugs, and chihuahuas will all do well exercising in a small backyard. If you do have a dog in an apartment, it is suggested that he be taken for a walk once or twice a day outside. This basically goes for all miniature dog breeds.
As far as which miniature dog breed to buy, there are many to choose from. As an owner you need to decide which will best suit your needs. Look into things such as temperament, size, and any features that will make your buying decision easier, such as coat length and care, and barking tendencies.
Here are four miniature dog breeds that you may want to check out before you make a purchasing decision.
1. The miniature bull terrier is a very playful dog that loves its’ family. It does like strangers as well though, so is not a good choice for a guard dog. They like plenty of activity, and love toys, although they have pretty strong jaws and teeth so they tend to destroy them quite quickly. Miniature bull terriers tend to want to please their masters more than their larger brothers.
2. Another dog to consider is the Lhasa apso. Lhasa’s have a distinctively beautiful long coat, and although they are lap dog size, they don’t have the need to be cuddled all the time like some other lap dogs. Like cats, they are independent and will come for attention when they want it, though they are very affectionate by nature. Lhasa’s are very loyal dogs, with a capacity for stubbornness which means they are better suited to those more experienced with handling dogs.
3. The miniature poodle is always popular. It is one of the most well behaved miniature dog breeds, and one that every dog lover should look into. Miniature poodles can grow up to 20 pounds, and stand about 15 inches in height. This breed is very intelligent and great with small children.
4. The miniature schnauzer weighs in at around 15 pounds. This miniature dog breed is affectionate, and is always up for a bit of fun. In addition, they are great for both country and city environments.
Miniature dog breeds have had quite a surge in popularity the last few years, no doubt influenced by the celebrity trend to carry them around in large handbags everywhere. Like all dogs, these too need their exercise, so a diamante studded collar and leash would no doubt be preferred than the gilded cage of a Louis vitton.

Dog Breeds, Dogs, Miniature Dog Breeds Hide

Since the Tibetan Terrier ‘Willy’ (full name Fabulous Willy) won the trophy for Best in Show at Crufts Dog Show 2007, many people may now be considering choosing the Tibetan Terrier as a family pet. If you are, you will be pleased to hear that the temperament of this breed has been one of the most attractive aspects of the breed since it was first established in the 1920’s. As would be expected from a dog previously used as a watch dog, they tend to be reserved around strangers, but should never be aggressive or shy with them.
One of the features for which the Tibetan Terrier is known is their broad, flat feet. We don’t think that such feet can be found in any other dog breed. The eyes are large, and dark. The Tibetan Terrier is one of the most ancient of all dog breeds, as has been established by recent DNA analysis. The feet have developed for mobility in snow. It has been said that the Tibetan terrier, is more of a herding dog, than a terrier.
It makes an excellent guard dog and has a powerful, siren-like bark which is surprising in a dog this size. It is also a loyal and affectionate pet, though it has a mind of its own and needs firm training. Although its coat requires regular grooming, it does not need a great deal of exercise. This is a playful breed and will enjoy human company in the garden or on the occasional foray into the countryside.
The eyes are large, dark, and set fairly far apart. Long and thick, but should not be so long as to touch the floor, as is typical in breeds such as the Lhasa Apso, or the Maltese.
The appearance of the Tibetan Terrier is that of a powerful, medium sized dog of square proportions, with a shaggy coat. A fall of hair covers the face and eyes, but long eyelashes generally prevent hair from getting in the Tibetan Terrier’s eyes, and the breed has very good eyesight. As such, the early history of the breed is linked to only a handful of foundation dogs.
No particular colours are preferred, as with terriers generally a wide range of colours are permissible, however, liver and chocolate are not allowed. Although waves are acceptable the coat should not be silky or curled.
Breed health problems have been seen and because of that, Tibetan Terrier clubs recommend purchasing from breeders who participate in eye and hip testing.
The Tibetan or Lhasa Terrier, being such an ancient breed, is probably the ancestor of the Lhasa Apso and Shih Tzu. The most plausible version of its history is that it was bred as a herder, working in tandem with the much larger Tibetan Mastiff which guarded the herds. Less hardy individuals were given to the Tibetan monks, who in turn may have given them to nomadic tribes to protect them on their travels; it is also possible that the nomads stole the dogs. Another account claims that the Tibetan Terrier originally came from Japan and was brought to Tibet by nomadic traders.
Like the other Tibetan dogs now popular in the West, the Tibetan Terrier has a long and luxurious coat. Typically it has a fringe falling forward over the eyes, a small beard and a jaunty kink to its tail.
It makes an excellent guard and has a powerful, siren-like bark surprising in a dog this size. It is also a loyal and affectionate pet, though it has a mind of its own and needs firm training. Although its coat requires regular grooming, it does not need a great deal of exercise. This is a playful breed and will enjoy human company in the garden or the occasional foray into the countryside.
More information at http://www.dog-breeds.me.uk/html/tibetan-terrier.php . A ‘must-visit’ web site for all Dog Lovers.

Crufts Best Of Show 2007, Dog Breeds, Fabulous Willy, Tibetan Terrier Hide