Dogs

The first day of the 136th Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show has come to an end, and the much anticipated Best in Show competition is just a day away. Did your favorite breed place tonight? Dogs from four out of the seven groups have competed for Best of Group (Hound, Toy, Non-Sporting, Herding). The remaining three groups (Sporting, Working, Terrier) will have their Best of Group judging tomorrow evening. Group winners go on to compete for the ultimate title of Best in Show.

The following dogs won Best of Group tonight and will compete tomorrow night for the coveted Best in Show title:

• Hound Group:
  GCH Raydachs Playing With Fire V Gleishorbach SW, a Dachshund
• Toy Group:
  Ch Palacegarden Malachy, a Pekingese
• Non-Sporting:
  GCH Spotlights Ruffian, a Dalmatian
• Herding Group:
  GCH Babheim's Captain Crunch, a German Shepherd Dog

If you were not able to make it to NYC for the show, you can still watch from home. USA network will air the final competitions starting at 8:00 PM EST tonight. In the meantime, see highlights from the show as well as entertaining behind-the-scenes coverage on MSG.com. For the most recent breed competition results, visit the Westmister Kennel Club online.

Photo: Michael Nagle/Stringer/Getty Images

The Bullmastiff is a powerful dog that was originally developed for protection. English gamekeepers in the mid-19th century crossed the Mastiff and the Bulldog. The result was a powerful, fearless dog that could stop poachers in their tracks.

Today's Bullmastiff is still a highly capable guard dog, but the breed is most treasured as a companion. Despite it's powerful and somewhat intimidating appearance, this is a gentle and affectionate dog that forms a solid bond with it's family members. However, the Bullmastiff's tough side does instinctively come out when necessary. One important thing to know about this breed: be prepared for slobber. The Bullmastiff owner tends to carry around a drool rag. If this sort of thing bothers you, then look elsewhere for the breed of your dreams. Otherwise, there's a lot to love about these big sweeties. Could this breed be the choice for you? Learn all about the Bullmastiff and see for yourself.

People who know Bullmastiffs simply cannot say enough wonderful things about this breed. Have you been lucky enough to share your life with a Bullmastiff? Tell your story!

Photo © iStockphoto.com/Terry Bouvier

February has several pet-related themes, beginning with National Pet Dental Health Month. In addition, February is all about being a responsible pet owner. This month has been dubbed Responsible Pet Owners Month by several media outlets and pet product companies. This may stem from the fact that February culminates in World Spay Day and is also being called Spay and Neuter Month.

Whatever the month, spreading the word about responsible dog ownership should be important to all of us. Being a responsible dog owner means committing to take care of your dog the right way. This means providing all of his health, exercise and training needs. It also means spaying or neutering dogs that are not ideal for breeding (by an experienced breeder). Responsible owners pick up after their dogs, prevent them from constantly barking and do not allow them to roam free. By acting as a responsible dog owner, you are respecting your dog as well as your community.

Do you have what it takes to be a responsible dog owner?

The Miniature Pinscher is a bold and courageous dog breed that is sometimes called the "King of the Toys." These little guys don't quite know their size, or perhaps they just don't care. The spunky Min Pin is also known for its entertaining and mischievous character. Contrary to what many believe, the Min Pin was not bred down from the Doberman Pinscher. In fact, Min Pins came first - and they seem to know it.

The proud owners of Min Pins can tell you how delightful it is to have this breed in your life, but that it also takes some work. This is not your garden-variety "frou-frou" dog, but an extremely active and robust dog that requires plenty of exercise, attention and training. However, if you decide the breed is right for you, you'll be glad you welcomed this lovable dog into your life. Want to learn more? Read more about Miniature Pinschers. Are you devoted to the dynamic Min Pin? Tell us about your experience: Share your Min Pin Story!

Photo © Ernst Moeksis on flickr

February is here, and that means it's National Pet Dental Health Month. It can be easy to overlook your dog's oral health on a day-to-day basis. This campaign is a great reminder to take care of your dog's teeth now and all year round.

Oral hygiene is an essential part of caring for your dog. Many people think "doggie breath" is inevitable. In reality, halitosis is a sign of an oral problem. Plaque and tartar buildup can lead to serious oral problems such as periodontal disease. Dental problems cause oral pain and can lead to loss of appetite, weight loss, and systemic diseases. Prevention is the cornerstone of canine dental health. Many dogs will need a professional cleaning every year or two, but daily home care might lead to less frequent professional cleanings. February is a great time to visit your vet for an oral exam and cleaning in honor of National Pet Dental Health Month. However, regardless of the month, remember to keep those pearly whites sparkling.

Photo © Christopher Furlong/Getty Images

The Pomeranian looks like a cross between a stuffed animal and a tiny lion. Its distinct long, fluffy coat and bright personality make this an unforgettable dog breed. Poms are energetic and sometimes bossy little dogs with an intense loyalty for their loved ones. In the veterinary world, I have come across more than a few Poms who would not even let me get near their human companions. Owners of Poms need to take special care to ensure that their dogs do not gain the upper hand. This may be easier said that done, though. It's not easy to say no to that adorable smiling ball of fluff!

If you are the proud owner of a Pomeranian, then you know what I mean. These are precious dogs, but they are not for everyone. Poms are great for people who want a little lap dog that also has the energy to run and play, plus a bit of strong-willed spirit. What about your Pom? What makes him or her special to you? Tell us by sharing your story: talk about your Pom!

Photo © Spencer Platt / Getty Images

There are a number of nasty little critters in in the world just waiting to hitch a ride on your beloved dog. Just thinking about it gives me the creeps. I'm sure you feel the same. As much as we might not want to imagine parasites on (or in) our dog, it's simply a fact of life. As a dog owner, it's vital that we understand the risks associated with various parasites. More important, however, is learning how to prevent them.

The simple truth is this: your dog will be exposed to parasites in his life. It could be fleas, intestinal worms or something else. Learn all about the common parasites seen in dogs and how you can protect your dog, yourself and your family. Yes, that's right - some parasites are a risk to humans, too. What are you doing to prevent to parasites from affecting your dog?

Photo © CDC/Wikimedia Commons

The French Bulldog is a fun-loving, affectionate dog breed that makes an excellent companion. This compact yet muscular dog is related to the English Bulldog, but is smaller, less wrinkly, and has prominent "bat-like" ears. While Frenchies have their fair share of hereditary health issues, they generally have fewer than English Bulldogs.

Frenchies are known to be lively, friendly and affectionate. Because of its dynamic personality and high cuteness factor, the breed is relatively popular. Learn all about the lovable French Bulldog and decide if this could be the breed for you. Are you one of the many proud Frenchie owners? Why do you love the breed? Share your Frenchie stories with other dog lovers like you.

Photo © Stacy Andrew

It's a lesson we all learn eventually, and one your dog should learn, too. Nothing In Life is Free (NILF) is a dog training technique that teaches dogs self-control by having them work for everything they get. Basically, if your dog wants attention, food, a walk or another type of reward, she needs to do something for you first. Does your dog try to bolt ahead of you and out the door in anticipation of a walk? Will she practically knock someone over trying to get to food? Here's my favorite: pushing her head or body under your hand to get petted. My own dog is a pro at this one!

Why does it matter? Well, the more you let your dog push the boundaries, the more unruly she can become. A dog with self-control is well-behaved and more fun to be around. Your guests may not appreciate how wonderful your dog is when she is constantly pawing and licking at them for attention. Small children and other animals can be injured by a dog rushing to get to what she wants. NILF is not about becoming a dictator over your dog. It's all about positive reinforcement and guiding your dog to self-control. A patient dog is happier because she's not getting herself all worked up over something she wants. Instead, she knows what she has to do in order to get it.

Learn all about the NILF technique and how it might work for you and your dog. You may be surprised how teaching your dog self-control makes a difference. Have you used NILF with your own dog? Tell us how it worked for you.

Photo © iStockphoto.com/Camrocker

If you asked me to list some of the most common canine diseases, hypothyroidism would be towards the top of my list. Hypothyroidism is an endocrine disease that is characterized by a deficiency of thyroid hormones, basically an under-active thyroid. Frequently occurring in both dogs and humans, hypothyroidism causes a decreased metabolic rate and can lead to a multitude of systemic complications. Humans with hypothyroidism tend to experience extreme fatigue, unexplained weight gain, changes in skin and hair, and mood fluctuations. With dogs, the symptoms are not much different. However, it may be harder for us humans to detect subtle changes in our dogs since they can be such pros at hiding illness.

Fortunately, hypothyroidism is one disease that can be managed. There is no cure, so treatment is for life. However, the majority of dogs respond very well to treatment and live normal lives. Could your dog be hypothyroid? Learn more about canine hypothyroidism to help you become a better advocate for your dog's health. After all, you are his voice at the vet.