Wrinkly, puffy, bristly and undeniably unique, the Chinese Shar-Pei is probably the most unusual looking dog you will ever see. These dogs were bred for centuries by the Chinese to serve as guard dogs and hunters. Unfortunately, they were also bred for dogfighting. This explains the harsh bristly coat and extra-thick skin, which were somewhat resistant to bites and scratches. Sadly, because of the breed's history, the Shar-Pei may have a tendency to become aggressive around other animals and sometimes even people.

It's too bad that Shar-Peis can have a pretty bad rap. Those bristly hairs make many of us break out in an itchy rash, and their independent and sometimes headstrong attitudes require plenty of human patience. However, the Shar-Pei can make a wonderful companion. This is an intelligent dog that will form a bond with those he trusts. Proper socialization is the key with this breed. So, before you make a judgment, learn more about the Chinese Shar-Pei , and meet a few in person. It might even be the dog for you. If you already have your own Shar-Pei, tell others about this one-of-a-king dog breed. As always, send in your pictures,

I have so much to be thankful for. I have wonderful friends and family, good food on the table and a roof over my head. I'm thankful for kind strangers, good neighbors and the beauty of nature.

But most of all, I am thankful for dogs.
Read more...

Every Thanksgiving, my dog gazes longingly at the feast, hoping for a stray bit of food or a drop of gravy. Fortunately, she's trained not to beg or linger around the table, but I do catch her staring at us from the other room. It's kind of sad, but I have a strict policy against table scraps. After dinner, I'll give her a small bit of turkey (without the skin, of course). However, this year I thought I'd try to whip up something special for her and any other canine guests that might stop by this Thanksgiving. Read more...

I'll admit it - I have always kind of looped the Lhasa Apso in with "similar" breeds, like the Shih Tzu. Not that I did not think of it as a separate breed, I just did not a lot of difference. I stand corrected. The Lhasa is an original, developed by nature for life in the Himalayan mountains. The Shih-Tzu's ancestors may be related to Lhasas, but the Lhasas were first. I have not had the pleasure to know many Lhasas, but I admire their independence and whimsy. I also admire the owners who work so hard to train these headstrong little dogs. Lhasas arfe smart and they know it!

The Lhasa is not the right breed for everyone, particularly households with small children, as it seems like Lhasas prefer adults. However, I do believe that any dog can adapt to just about any situation with proper handling. If you don't mind grooming, and you want a relatively small dog with a dynamic personality and moderate activity level, the Lhasa may be the one. Before you choose,learn all about the Lhasa Apso, a unique and intriguing dog breed. Love Lhasas? Tell us about it and share your favorite photos.

Photo © D.C Atty on flickr