Dogs

Meet the Silky Terrier! No, your eyes do not deceive you. This does look quite a bit like a Yorkshire Terrier, but it's not the same. Though the two are definitely related, they are completely separate dog breeds. For one, the Silky is a bit larger than the Yorkie. However, the Silky still most certainly a small dog. Like many small dog breeds, the Silky packs a big personality. This breed is energetic and friendly, but has an independent side as well.

Could this be the right breed for you? If you want a little dog that is not necessarily the average lap dog, perhaps this is a good choice. Read all about the Silky Terrier to learn more. Are you a Silky enthusiast? Please share your Silky Terrier tales with us!

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May 19-25 is National Dog Bite Prevention Week. A collaborative effort among the AVMA, the AAP and the USPS, Dog Bite Prevention Week aims to promote responsible dog ownership and increase awareness of dog bite risks. According to the AVMA, 4.7 million Americans are bitten by dogs each year, and 800,000 of those dog bites results in injuries that require medical attention (half of these being children). What can you do to help prevent dog bites? Plenty. Here are some ways to get started:

Learn how to prevent dog bites. It is important to understand that ANY dog is capable of biting, regardless of breed or size. These tips for dog owners and potential dog bite victims can help prevent dog bites.

Recognize the signs that a dog may bite. In the majority of cases, a dog will give plenty of warning before biting. Unfortunately, many people are unable to see the signs before it is too late. Once you know what to look for, the signs are very clear.

Train your dog to prevent biting. There are a number of things you can do to ensure that your dog doesn't contribute to the dog bite statistics. Proper training and socialization are absolutely essential.

Learn how to address aggression issues in your dog. If you have noticed aggressive behavior in your dog, the time to act is NOW. It may not be easy, but it is essential that you do whatever is possible in order to reverse your dog's aggressive tendencies.

Be a responsible dog owner. The best thing you can do for your dog, yourself and your community is to act responsibly when it comes to your dog. Know what it takes to be a responsible dog owner and do it!

Remember that it is up to you to do everything in your power to prevent your dog from biting someone. If your dog does bite someone, the consequences to you and your dog can be severe. This is on top of the guilt you will feel over the injuries to the bite victim. Unfortunately, even with the best of plans, bad things can still happen. That's why it's so important to know what to do if a dog bite occurs. If your dog bites someone, your first reaction might be shock or panic. However, it is important to take swift action after a dog bite. Dog bites require prompt medical attention because of the damage they can do (even if they appear minor on the surface). Hopefully, you will never be in this situation. Remember that prevention is the key. You want your dog to be your companion, not a public safety risk.

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The Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier is a happy and energetic medium-sized dog that makes a loving companion. A native of Ireland, the Wheaten was historically kept as an all-purpose farm dog. Today, the breed is best known as a playful and affectionate companion. Besides its attractive personality, the Wheaten is also loved for its practical size (neither large nor small) and very low tendency to shed (in theory, hypoallergenic). However, this can also be considered a fairly high-maintenance breed in some ways. Wheatens need to be thoroughly groomed on a regular basis, including daily brushing to prevent mats. They also need owners who are dedicated to consistent training.

In reality, the needs of the Wheaten do not far surpass the basic needs of all dogs. In the end, people who know and love the breed will tell you it's all worth it. As with any breed, it's important to educate yourself before making the commitment. Learn all about the Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier and see if this could be a match for your household. Have you already shared your life with one of these wonderful dogs? Tell us more: talk about your Wheaten!

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Are you expecting? Congratulations! As are a dog owner, you may be wondering how it is all going to work out - especially if this is your first child. Having a baby does not mean you have to give up your dog, but it also means you have some preparation to do. No matter how sweet your dog, do not assume she will accept the new baby's arrival with open paws. However, many dogs simply fall in love with the household's newest human addition.

Fortunately, there are several ways you can get your dog ready for the arrival of your new baby. These tips on preparing your dog for the new baby can get you started. With the right training and socialization, your dog is more likely to accept your new baby and continue to be a happy member of your growing family.

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The Rhodesian Ridgeback is best known for, of course, the beautiful and unique ridge of hair along its back. After that, many of us think of its large size and powerful, noble appearance. They should be noble - after all, they were once used to hunt lions. This breed is still used for hunting today (though not for lions anymore) and is also an excellent guard dog.

Even beyond first impressions, Ridgebacks can make wonderful pets. As young dogs, they are active and playful. As they mature, they develop into loyal and calm companions. Though they may be hesitant around strangers, Ridgebacks are gentle and kind to their families. Could this be the right dog for you? Find out more about the Rhodesian Ridgeback. If you love the breed, share your experiences with us: talk about your Ridgeback!

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Hug your dog, because May 5-11 is all about pets! First of all, this week is National Pet Week. Created by the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA), National Pet Week is intended to help reinforce the human-animal bond, encourage responsible pet ownership, and promote public awareness of veterinary medicine. Next, this week is also Be Kind to Animals Week. American Humane Association founded this event to help make a better world for animals. It's about helping animals in need, adopting homeless pets and taking good care of your pets. Finally, this Wednesday, May 8th is National Animal Disaster Preparedness Day.

Here's how you can celebrate these events this week and all year. Start by being a responsible owner. Also, focus on your relationship with your veterinarian. Next, if you decide to get a new pet, consider adopting a dog from a shelter or rescue group. Can't adopt but still want to help animals in need? Make a charitable donation to a reputable animal advocacy group. Also, this week is a great time to look into emergency and disaster preparedness for pets.

No matter what you do, remember to always spend time reinforcing the special bond you share with your dog. Enjoy this pet-themed week! What will you do to celebrate?

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The Chihuahua is one of the world's tiniest dogs, but the breed makes up for its tiny size with a pretty big personality. While lovable and loyal, Chihuahuas are also highly active and sassy dogs with major "tough dog" attitudes. One person I know told me that her Chihuahua even "sits with attitude," and it's true! These are wonderful dogs, but they are definitely not for everyone.

The Chihuahua has gradually gained popularity over the years, especially since the famous Taco Bell mascot appeared on televisions everywhere. These little dogs are often seen being toted around in the designer bags of certain celebrities. The Chihuahua's popularity has gained even more traction over the years thanks to films like Legally Blonde and Beverly Hills Chihuahua. Many see the Chihuahua as the quintessential purse dog, but this adorable dog breed is certainly much more than just a trendy fashion accessory.

So, if you think you want a Chihuahua, make sure you do your research. These are amazing dogs, but they belong in the right home. If you decide this breed is the right match for you, congratulations and have fun. Do you already have Chihuahuas in your life? Tell us all about them!

Memorial Day weekend is less than a month away, and it kicks off the summer travel season. I know many of you are looking forward to getting away. But what is the plan for your dog? Planning ahead for your canine companion is just as important as making your own travel arrangements. Bringing your dog along on trips can be lots of fun if you do it right. If you've decided to travel with your dog, make sure you plan accordingly to ensure a fun and safe trip.

Sometimes you simply can't bring your dog along on your travels. Though you will miss her, you will both have a much better time if she is in good hands. If you have not made arrangements yet, you should jump on it before options become scarce. Considering a boarding kennel? Educate yourself before you board your dog so you know what to look for. Personally, I like to hire a pet sitter if my dog can't come with me. I just prefer that extra-special personal touch.

What are your travel plans this summer? Will your dog come along or stay back home?

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The Bernese Mountain Dog is a large and lovable dog breed that thrives upon the companionship of people. Affectionately called "Berners," this working breed has a solid history as a Swiss farm dog and farmers' companion. Today's Berner is known as more of a companion than anything else, but the breed is well-suited to obedience trials, cart-hauling competitions and conformation.

Some of the best traits of the Berner are it's gentle nature and ability to get along with children and other animals. This loyal breed is protective without being aggressive and playful without being too rough. Like most large-breed dogs, the Berner's life expectancy is short at 7-8 years. However, this does not keep enthusiasts from continuing to love the breed. Instead, they work hard to promote veterinary medical research and to breed quality dogs with a goal to avoid hereditary diseases. Learn all about the beautiful and dynamic Bernese Mountain Dog breed and find out if it's right for you. Lovers of this breed, please share your thoughts with us here by sharing your story.

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Canine parvovirus is a very serious and highly contagious virus that affects dogs. The disease attacks the body's rapidly dividing cells, particularly the cells of the intestines and bone marrow. In some cases, parvo can be fatal. Treatment of parvo typically requires intensive supportive care in a hospital setting. The more advanced the disease, the poorer the prognosis. The best way to manage parvo is to prevent your dog from contracting it in the first place.

Puppies are most susceptible to parvo because of their lack of immunity against the virus. Most puppies have parvo immunity from their mothers for the first few weeks for their lives, but this immunity will fade away somewhere between 6-16 weeks of age. This is why vets recommend several parvo vaccines/boosters during the first few months of a puppy's life. They also recommend keeping puppies away from public areas until vaccines are complete. Though adult dogs are less commonly affected by parvo, it is important to know that they still can contract the disease, particularly if they are unvaccinated or immune-compromised.

Don't let parvo take a hold of your dog. Learn all about parvo in dogs, including its transmission, symptoms, diagnosis and treatment. Most importantly, find out how to protect your dog from parvo. It may be highly contagious, but it is also very preventable.

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