To Breed or Not to Breed Your Dog?

It is very tempting to think about having a litter of small cuddly puppies from your beautiful bitch, but before even thinking about it, there are important factors to consider.

First of all, you may think your dog is the best in the world, but is it really? Look at her dispassionately. Is she of sound construction and reliable temperament? Is she free from any genetic defects? If she is a pedigree dog, is she a good example of the breed, coming from a good lineage?

Do not be tempted to breed a dog that has serious defects and do not contemplate breeding as a means of trying to compensate for any signs of nervousness or distress in your bitch. Your dog should be mature enough to physically cope with a litter (in a large breed this will be when the bitch is at least two years old.)

If you are happy so far that breeding is the right thing to do, then you should turn your attention to the pups. Have you the room for a whelping box and then perhaps 12 pups running around? Have you the time to sit with your bitch while she is birthing, perhaps more than 12 hours? Then there is the cleaning, weaning, feeding routine for the next eight to 12 weeks. What about money? The cost of the feed can be expensive and you must remember to budget for any veterinary costs that are caused by complications in the birth. Finally, what will you do with the pups? You must be in a position to look after them all. If it is a pedigree dog then you will be looking at registering the pups before they are sold. If your bitch is not a dog with a pedigree, you will be either giving the pups away or selling them for the going rate, in your area, for that type of dog. Either way, you should be checking very carefully where your pups are going, possibly including a home visit; this again takes time and money. Remember that the breeder is usually responsible for ensuring that the puppies have their first set of vaccinations before they are sold or given away. Remember also, that you are responsible for the birth of the pups and you should always be prepared to take them back, for whatever reason, as they are ultimately your responsibility for life.

If you still think breeding is for you, then your final consideration will be the stud dog. If attempting to breed a pedigree dog, then your ultimate aim will be to produce sound, quality dogs of both structure and temperament, that are ideally as near the Breed Standard as possible. Therefore, you should look at your bitch against the Breed Standard, identifying strengths and weaknesses and then look for a stud dog that will complement your bitch, building on her strengths and compensating for her weaknesses. If your bitch has poor pigmentation then do not use a dog that also has poor pigmentation. Study the dog’s pedigree and antecedents. Do whatever research you can to try to ensure you breed healthy well-developed dogs.

Remember you are breeding living animals. Their quality of life should come first and not your own interests, especially money.

Until next time,

Teia

Anal Sac Problems in Dogs

The Apricot Poodle in the picture with me is Koko, who passed away on December 19, 2007. He had anal sac problems most of his life. Dad learned how to express the anal sacs and he did it for Koko on a regular basis. When he did this, Koko's problems disappeared. It is quite smelly when expressing these glands, but not very difficult to do after you learn how to do it. Dad learned how from the family veterinarian.

It is a common misconception that a dog needs worming when he is seen to be biting his rear end, or scooting past on his bum the moment you have friends over for coffee. The probable cause for this discomfort (and embarrassment on your part) is that the dog needs his anal glands expressed.

Dogs have two pea-sized anal sacs situated on either side of the anus, approximately at the five and seven o'clock positions. These sacs contain a very strong smelling liquid, which is usually secreted when the dog has a bowel movement. The feces, when passing through the anus, pushes against the anal sacs squeezing a little liquid out. This liquid is thought to be a dog's “calling card”. This is why most dogs tend to say “hello” to each other by sniffing each other’s rear-ends. Sometimes, however, the bowel movement can be too soft to push against the sacs and a build-up of liquid occurs. The anal sacs can become over full and cause discomfort. Alternatively, the sacs can become blocked and impossible to empty. If these problems are ignored, they do not go away. Abscesses can form, infections can set in and self-inflicted wounds occur due to severe biting. Hair loss, coat discoloration and enormous discomfort and pain for the dog also occur.

Sometimes, all that is needed is a slight increase in dietary fiber to harden the stool. However, there are other factors that may contribute to the problem. The consistency of the liquid produced by the glands may make it difficult to pass, or the actual conformation of the anus, or even obesity can prevent the sacs from emptying properly. Therefore, sometimes a helping hand is required!

Many groomers empty the dog's anal glands as a matter of form during the bathing process. However, it is now believed that unless requested by the owners, who have learned from the veterinarian that it is necessary, it is best to leave the anal glands untouched, for once the dog gets into a routine of having them emptied periodically, they will always need manual emptying. It is important to note the color and texture of the secretion to report to the owner so that they may seek veterinary attention if they feel it is necessary. Anal sac fluid that looks like black paste, or that contains pus or blood, is not normal. Soreness when touched and an inability to empty with ease is a sign of blockage. This should be mentioned to the owner. Any lumps around the anus should also be mentioned to the owner.

Usually, expressing the sacs externally is enough to relieve the discomfort. This should not cause any pain to the dog and it takes seconds to do. Excessive squeezing and prodding must be avoided as damage to the glands could occur. The vet may empty the sacs internally while examining the dog. This is NOT for the groomer or owner to do.

If the problems persist, the veterinarian may advise removal of the glands, as a last resort. They do not like undertaking this operation as the muscles around the anus can weaken and sometimes become permanently damaged. After the operation the dog usually feels great discomfort for a considerable length of time.

Until next time,

Teia

Your Dog's Eyes

Unless you were born blind, you already know how valuable your eyes and vision are in coping with life. Helping you to process information on the world around you, your eyes constantly work to help you enjoy life and avoid danger.

Dogs also use their eyes in similar ways, but with a few minor important differences. People see far and near fine detail in a wide range of colors and shades. Dogs however, even sight hounds which have good vision, have a poorer color range and they are much better at detecting movement than detail. This gives them an advantage with night vision, but they are poorer at seeing fine or close detail. The main advantage dogs have is that they don't have to rely purely on vision for information on their world. An acute sense of smell and excellent hearing, along with good motion sensing vision, means that dogs sense much more of their surroundings than mere humans. This extended sensory ability made them ideal companions to early man, when danger lurked around every corner.

Dog's eyes even look remarkably similar to human eyes. Like people, dogs have a range of eye colors although their predominant color is brown. One important difference between dogs and humans is that dogs have a third eyelid called a nictitating membrane. Although this membrane is not easily seen, certain diseases and eye irritation can make it stand out. The third eyelid sits in the inside corner of a dog’s eye and helps to protect it from irritation by cleansing and lubricating the eye.

Most of the eye diseases and problems seen in dogs are the same as those found in humans. One of the most common problems seen in dogs is due to simple eye irritation. The same environmental irritants that affect people also affect dogs. Dust, smoke and chemical pollution are the common causes of watery, irritable eyes in your favorite pets. Apart from seeing red, teary eyes which are often swollen, you will likely observe your dog rubbing or scratching at his eyes. Look carefully at whether both or only one eye is irritated. Symptoms occurring in only one eye usually mean a foreign body or injury in the eye involved.

Blocked tear ducts can also produce excessively watery eyes in dogs as well as humans. In some dog breeds, such as older Poodles and Shih Tzu's, you will often see damp and matted fur around their eyes and that signals possible tear duct blockage. An expert opinion from a veterinarian is often needed to tell the difference between the various causes of watery eyes.

Another trait that elderly dogs share with elderly humans is the development of cataracts. Most long term dog owners have seen the cloudy, milky haze that spreads in the center of each pupil as the cataracts form. This milky haze is the lens inside your dog’s eye becoming opaque and the dog slowly going blind. It's important to distinguish cataracts from another change called Lenticular Sclerosis. Lenticular Sclerosis is a condition which looks similar to cataracts but where only the center of the dog’s lens hardens and vision remains unaffected. Both problems are seen in elderly dogs.

One significant advantage that aging dogs have compared to humans is that eye damage and blindness does not incapacitate them to the same extent as human blindness. Good hearing and an acute sense of smell compensate well. There are many stories of blind dogs managing wonderfully well in life and it's a pity aging humans are unable to see through the "eyes" of their beloved dogs at times!

Until next time,

Teia

The Relationship Between Man and Cats

Cats have been with man throughout history, but not always as beloved companions.

In ancient times, the cat earned its keep by helping to reduce the population of rats and mice that raided precious grain stores. In ancient Egypt, cats were adored and celebrated - even mummified along with their human companions.

Up until Medieval times, the cat had been elevated to a high status. She was even worshiped in some places, like the German states, where cats were associated with Freya the goddess of love and fertility. Medieval man, however, had an entirely different opinion of the cat.

Medieval man was superstitious, believing that witches and demons walked the earth doing evil deeds. The church became a central part of medieval life and in its quest for power, preached that the old ways of worship were evil.

The church took a dislike to the old Freya rites and in 1484, Pope Innocent VIII instructed the Inquisition to burn the Freya heretics as witches - along with their cats.

During the 16th and 17th centuries more than 175,000 supposed witches were executed in Germany and France. Along with them went thousands of cats.

Medieval man thought the cat had supernatural powers and any misfortune was blamed on them. Anything from sour milk to an outbreak of disease was blamed on our furry friends. Cats were even thought to be witches in disguise, running in the darkness of night to perform evil acts. Cats were burned, boiled, stoned, flayed, stabbed, gutted, dropped from high places, hanged, impaled and buried alive with an almost religious fervor.

To own a cat during these times was risking one’s life as many an old lady was accused of witchcraft simply because she kept a cat as a companion. Throughout these bleak times, however, some did remain loyal to the furry feline.

Millers and Sailors still saw great uses for the cats to rid their respective areas of vermin. Others kept their fondness for cats as well. As time went on, more people of influence began to keep cats (even Cardinals Wolsey and Richelieu kept cats as pets) and the tide began to turn in the cat’s favor.

Finally, by the 18th century, cats were no longer persecuted and cats as companions began to make a comeback. Today, of course, cats are widely accepted as loving companions and, while they don't typically enjoy the status they did in ancient Egypt, they are adored and cared for as loving pets.

Until next time,

Teia

The Thoroughbred Horse

Picture 1 shows Thoroughbreds racing in Europe. Picture 2 shows the Darley Arabian. Picture 3 shows a current Thoroughbred from Australia.

The Thoroughbred horse is the most popular, or at least one of the most popular horse breeds in the racing world. Thoroughbreds are synonymous with horse racing and lots of money. Some people refer to any purebred horse as a Thoroughbred, however, this is not accurate as the Thoroughbred is a distinctive breed of horse.

The Thoroughbred horse originated in the 17th century when horses were brought from the Middle East to England. Three stallions, the Darley Arabian, the Godophin Arabian and the Byerly Turk, along with a number of Arabian or Barb mares were brought to England. There, these mares and some English mares formed a foundation of 74 horses which were bred by these stallions to form the horse we know today. Approximately ninety-five percent of today's Thoroughbred pedigrees trace back to the Darley Arabian.

The most agile and swift offsprings were allowed to breed to ensure that the fastest possible horse would result from the union. Often Thorougbred owners refused to name their horses until they had proven themselves on the race track.

The first Thoroughbred horse imported into the United States in 1730, was named Bulle Rock. In those days, Maryland and Virginia became the centers for breeding Thoroughbreds. Thoroughbred horses are listed in the group of horses known as "hot blooded" horses. This term refers to any horse breed that is bred for speed and agility.

Thoroughbred horses are among the most expensive horses to buy. A colt in Florida sold for 16 million dollars before it even ran a race. It fetched this high price because it's a descendant of two Kentucky Derby winners.

One of the main reasons for the high price of Thoroughbred horses is that owners of stallions cannot use artificial insemination of mares, like other breeds can. Each mating between a stallion and mare must be witnessed by a person. This means stallions can only service, at most, a couple of hundred mares a year, versus several thousand that would be possible through artificial insemination.

Thoroughbred horses aren't only used for racing; their speed and agility make them valuable in other horse events as well. These horses are frequently used in jumping contests, dressage and polo games.

Many of the most famous horses in history have been Thoroughbreds. Man O' War and Secretariat are considered to be among the greatest race horses of all time because they each won so many races during their lives.

So, the next time you tune in to watch the Kentucky Derby, you'll have a better understanding of the type of horses taking part in the race. You will also realize why their price keeps rising.

Until next time,

Teia

The Rewards of Training Your Dog

A well trained dog is a joy to be around. Beyond being well socialized, trained dogs are less likely to jump up on people and are less likely to bite someone. They also tend to stay calm in distracting situations.

Also, well trained dogs are more likely to stay with the same owner as opposed to being abandoned to the pound. One research report from the Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association found that 96% of shelter dogs had never had training of any kind.

Training your dog helps to teach him what he can and cannot do, making him more comfortable around you, your family and strangers. There are many different dog training programs and many professional dog trainers. However, just because someone has a business card stating that they are a professional dog trainer doesn't mean that they are a qualified trainer. Just like many professions now-a-days, there are many charlatans out to make a quick buck from unsuspecting dog owners.

To find a good trainer, start by asking everyone you know if they can recommend a good trainer. Check with your veterinarian and the breeder or supplier of your dog. Also, while walking your dog at the dog park, ask other dog owners whom they recommend. There have been dozens of different training methods for dogs that have been in and out of fashion over the years, so once you have found a trainer, ask him or her what method of training they use. Ask why they use it and what the benefits of it are. Also ask for references.

Whether you train your dog yourself or find a professional, teaching your dog commands and socializing it is very important. Areas to cover in training include:

1.Socializing your dog to strangers: This is easy to accomplish while out walking your dog around the neighbourhood and introducing her to people you meet. Until you get her to respond calmly and in a friendly manner, it is best to keep her on a short leash when meeting new people.

2.Socializing with other dogs: You can do this at dog parks, or even better, in a dog training class. Again, until you see how your dog interacts with other dogs, keep her on a short leash. The last thing you want to create is a dog fight.

3.Leash walking at a steady pace: You can start this training as soon as you get your new dog. If he starts to strain against the leash in an attempt to go more quickly, stop walking until he settles down. The first few walks could be quite short (in distance) because of the amount of time you spend standing still while he strains against the leash.

4.Crate training: This is important, especially to build up your dog's ability to calmly stay in a kennel environment for several hours at a time. If you have to leave him home alone and he is not fully trained, it is best that he be left in a crate to prevent him from getting into something he shouldn't, or causing damage.

5.The sit command: This is usually the first command new owneers teach their dog. It is good as a way of keeping her from straining against her leash or from lungeing at other dogs.

6.The stay command: This command is important for your dog to master, especially in an environment with a lot of distractions.

7.The down/stand command: These commands help to develop boundaries for your dog.

There are many other commands and behaviours that your dog should be taught as time goes on, but the above are some of the first that should be considered.

There are many benefits to having a well trained dog. But it doesn't necessarily mean that your dog will not develop behavioural problems down the road, such as separation anxiety, food guarding and other undesirable habits, however, these are not related to training or lack thereof. Simply put, a well trained dog is a joy to be around and the training strengthens the human-animal bond.

Until next time,

Teia

Dog Ownership Responsibilities

In addition to the joy of getting a new dog, you have also taken on a lot of responsibilities. Of course you must feed your new pet, take care of her health, groom her and give her lots of love and attention. Many animal lovers do not think any further than this. However, discipline is also a very important part of owning a dog.

Behavior Problems

Proper discipline can help prevent behavior problems later in your pet’s life. House breaking is the most common form of training. However, a caring owner will often go a lot further than this. Your pet's obedience will lead to a stronger bond between the two of you, as well as meaning less frustration and annoyance. Your pet starts learning and shaping behaviors early in life, so that is the best time to start with dog training basics. Recent scientific study has revealed that the best time to train a puppy is from seven to twelve weeks of age as they are most impressionable at that age and they have not yet learned bad habits. If you wait until later to train your new puppy, he will be more difficult to train and he will have picked up some annoying habits that will be difficult to eliminate.

Puppy Training

You can never start too early with puppy training. Many people hold the mistaken belief that puppies less than six months are too young to train, but this is simply not true. You can start shaping a puppy’s behavior the moment you acquire him if it is done in the proper manner. If you do some research, it is easy to find plenty of dog training books, websites about pet training and obedience training tutorials. You may even consider hiring a professional instructor. Ask your veterinarian or friends if they know of any reputable trainers in your area and shop around for the person who is right for you. Whether you hire a professional or train your puppy yourself, use the reward for good behavior, not the punishment for bad behavior type of training. You will always get better results for rewarding your puppy when he does something right than you will by punishing him for doing something wrong. Like little children, puppies have short attention spans. By the time you catch him and punish him for a misdeed, he will have no idea why you are punishing him and just think you are mean. However, if you quickly give him a treat after he does something right, he will remember that after a few repetitions and learn that a particular action or response results in something good.

Obedience Training

There are many aspects to dog obedience training and not everyone wants to get the same experience out of it. Some people will be content with house breaking, leash training and basic obedience to simple commands. Many dog owners do not realize that they can change or prevent problem behaviors such as barking, whining, digging, growling, chewing and aggression. Yet all these behaviors can be addressed with proper teaching. Decide what tutelage is most important for you and your pet and make sure you are willing to invest the time and energy into a program that will yield the desired results.

Professional Trainers

If you decide to use a professional trainer, be sure you keep the breed of your dog in mind when shopping around. Some breeds may be harder to train than others, so some trainers may prefer not to work with them. Alternatively, some trainers may specialize in certain breeds, so they will have more success with your pet than another trainer may have. Even if you are teaching your pet yourself, there are books and information geared toward certain breeds. Do not get discouraged if you are told your breed is hard to train, just look for proven methods to use. The hardest work always yields the greatest rewards.

Owning a pet is a big responsibility, but the right attitude can make it fun and rewarding. Do not think of your canine companion as an object for your amusement, but as a living creature that can become a treasured friend. Dogs are motivated by their owner's pleasure, so if you work together, the dog training process will be an important step in your relationship. You will learn to trust one another, which will allow you to enjoy the pleasure of each other's company. Teach your dog what you want and expect from her and she will give you that and more in return.


Until next time,

Teia