Chiwawa dog

A Look at Chihuahua Mixes - A Great Companion Dog

Chihuahuas are a very popular breed of dog despite their annoying yipping! They're extremely tiny (the smallest in the world, actually) and cute (some would say) as well as having an amusing personality in which they don't seems to realize how much smaller they are than... everything else. Their attempt to intimidate and impose their will on others is amusing, adding to the likability of this animal. It's for these reasons that Chihuahuas are one of the top 10 most popular dog breeds in America. Another popular idea in modern times are Chihuahua mixes-dogs created by breeding pure-bred Chihuahuas with pure-breds of another breed. These new animals can vary in size and colour depending on what the other parent breed is, and often combine the traits of the two animals both in physical appearances, as well as personality traits.

Some of the breeds that are popularly bred with Chihuahuas to make desirable mixes are Terriers, Pomeranians, and Poodles. Each of these combine the parent breeds in unique ways from one another.

Pomeranian Chihuahua mixes almost perfectly combine the appearances of Chihuahuas, and Pomeranians. They tend to have a Pomeranian's long and fine hair, a body that seems like a natural combination of a Pomeranian and Chihuahua, while maintaining the Chihuahua's unique facial structure.. Interestingly enough, they have personality traits, which are uncharacteristic of each parent breed, making them their own unique animal. They should be well groomed on a regular basis to maintain their look, as their hair is quite long and easily matted.

After the advent of the Taco Bell dog in the mid-90's, Taco Terriers became popular in the United States. They're a combination of a Chihuahua and a Toy Fox Terrier, and are just one of many Chihuahua-Terrier cross breeds.

Poodles are also often bred with Chihuahuas to create an interesting animal which combines various traits in a unique (although not very attractive) way. While they're bred often, they are not altogether popular and can often be found as strays on the streets or in rescue shelters.

Another common combination, although more for financial gain than of the breeder than the choice of the buyer, is a cross between a Chihuahua and a Miniature Pinsher. This results in a dog that looks like a pure-bred Chihuahua when it is very young, but as it gets older it quickly becomes evident that it's not as it gets much larger than a Chihuahua and with slightly different facial features.

Darren here, I run the Rare Dog Breeds web site. It carries information on many types of dog, including lots of information on the various types of Chiwawa Mix.

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Dog rescue

Dog Rescue - Do You Have What It Takes?

Volunteers are the unsung heroes of dog rescue. They put thousands of miles on their cars and vans transporting dogs, spend a lot of money that they are sometimes reimbursed for, but more likely are not, lose their hearts on a regular basis to abused, sick or injured dogs, senior dogs, puppies, three-legged, blind and deaf dogs; dogs that, were it not for these human guardian angels, would be euthanized unnecessarily or simply thrown away like garbage.

Every single one of these volunteers chooses rescue. Some volunteers make a deliberate choice to get involved. Still others adopt a dog from a rescue group and before they realize what's happened, they are spearheading the adoption activity in their community.

That's what happened to me 20 years ago when my family adopted our first ex-racing greyhound. Back then, the fact that ex-racers existed was little known outside of the dog racing industry. Less than a month after bringing our male, ex-racing greyhound, Comanche home, my husband and I were volunteering to transport dogs.

Five months after that, I had taken on a leadership role in coordinating all of the adoption activity between the race track in New Hampshire and the central and western areas of New York state. I held the title of Volunteer Director for 7 years.

You could say I have an insider's understanding of what it's like to be a volunteer for dog rescue organizations. Here are a few reasons why you might want to think about volunteering. Just to hold nothing back, I'll include one very important reason why you shouldn't volunteer.

If you've never had a dog, volunteering can be a rewarding way to learn about lots of different dogs or about one specific breed. Think you might want to learn about German Shepherds? Look for a German Shepherd rescue group in your area.

What about Dobermans, Pitt Bull Terriers, Jack Russells, or Boxers? For these and every breed of dog, there are breed specific rescue groups. Any one of them would welcome an extra pair of hands.

Before you contact any dog rescue groups, think about how much of your time you want to commit. If you've got a couple of hours over the weekend and like to drive, helping out with a transport might be a perfect use of your time. Regardless of when during the week you have time, be careful to set boundaries around your availability so that you don't end up living rescue 24 hours a day.

Are you dog-knowledgeable and is your yard fenced? You might want to think about providing foster care for a dog in need. This is a big time commitment. More importantly, it's an emotional commitment that will test your ability to love a dog on a short-term basis. This is also the biggest hole in any rescue group: the majority of groups can never have enough foster homes.

Are you dog-knowledgeable and unable to have a dog of your own? Find out if any of the dog rescue groups include obedience classes for their dogs waiting to be adopted. Maybe you can commit to taking one of their dogs to obedience.

There are other ways to volunteer if you don't want to have direct contact with the dogs. If you're a computer geek, offer to assist an organization with their web site or online promotional materials. What about offering to help set up and tear down for a public event where this group will be showcasing their dogs?

What about being a guardian angel for a dog that needs surgery before it can be adopted? Make a monetary donation that is within your budget and be supportive in a way that not everybody stops to think about.

That said, what about helping out with a fund raiser? Lack of funds is always a challenge for rescue groups and they are always looking out for ways to raise money.

You can see by this list, that there are lots of ways for you to become actively involved in dog rescue. If this is true, why would I caution you away from this type of volunteer work?

Quite simply, if you are one of those people afraid to have your heart broken not once, but more times than you'll be able to count, you may find this kind of volunteer work more than you bargained for. Dog rescue is not for the faint hearted. And, it will change you in ways you never imagined.

So, if you think that you're fine just the way you are and you never want to risk falling in love with God's creatures, stay away. Stay far away.

Kathy H Porter blogs about rescue dogs and how they transform our lives. Visit: http://www.healingrescuedogs.com to claim your free report for tips on how to change your behavior by what your dog can teach you.

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Kinds of dogs

The Kinds of Dog Training Collars

Dog training collars come in a variety of types and sizes. When you want to train your dog, you'll want a strong collar that goes well with a sturdy leash, so you can keep your pet under control without hurting him too much. Therefore, it must also be one that fits around your dog's neck comfortably. Taking down the measurements of your dog, especially the area of his neck and head, with a measuring tape before going off to buy, would be wise.

Traditional dog training collars, or choke collars, are now classified by how they are fitted around the dog's neck. There are three popular kinds of choke collars: the limited choke collar, the choke chain, and the snap-around. All of these serve unique purposes, and some are only advisable to use for dogs who require special training.

The limited choke collar, for example, is used to train sled dogs and service dogs. The limited choke collar only fits snugly around the dog's neck. When you pull on it with a leash, it doesn't get any smaller than the size of the dog's head, so there's no pain involved for the dog, but it affords the user a great deal of force when used.

The choke chain collar is not at all very popular these days. It's made of an adjustable chain of heavy steel links, which contracts when pulled on with a leash. It used to be a popular training collar for large guard dogs. This is sort of a shock collar in that it chokes the dog severely if he tries to make a sharp, sudden movement; the more the dog struggles, the more the chain tightens. The chain only falls back into place once the dog relaxes.

The snap around choke collar is considered the healthiest overall, as it doesn't contract like the choke chain, and rides high on the dog's neck so it won't push against the windpipe even if the leash is pulled. You only need a minimum of force to guide the dog using this collar, and it keeps the dog's neck from snapping backward even in case of an accidentally strong pull.

The more high-tech dog training collars are remote-controlled, but you won't always need those if you're mostly after restraint. The difference between traditional and high-tech training collars is that with the latter, you can inflict corrective measures upon your dog at the push of a button - as with shock collars, tone collars and vibration collars. Shock collars are not recommended for use by a truly caring dog owner - these are considered inhumane and unhealthy for the dog's training progress.

Puppy-train.com provides you with information on dog barking, dog training collars, dog training schools, dog grooming supplies and homemade dog treats. Go to http://www.puppy-train.com/

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Shitzu dogs

Basic Shitzu Dogs Info You Should Discover in Advance

A dog is a frequently domesticated animal. Dogs have different breeds, explaining why they have varying appearances. If you want a small lovely dog, a Shitzu is perfect. Shitzu dogs belong to the toy breeds, and their name means a 'lion dog' in Chinese. According to reliable research studies, this dog existed in China since the 17th century. They particularly existed in the famous region of Tibet. Since Shitzus are small dogs, they are mainly safer inside the house.

They are sensitive dogs that cannot endure the hot summer heat or the winter freezing cold. If your child requires a dog, a Shitzu dog is perfect. Its tiny body has long, pretty hair cover that requires constant grooming. In short, this dog breed requires special care than most dogs available. Anyone who wants to buy the Shitzu should learn how to care for it in advance. The following are important tips one should know about Shitzu dogs.

• Grooming - As mentioned above, Shitzu's have very long hair covering their tiny bodies. If a dog owner ignores regular grooming practices, the animal could look very unkempt. You should use a comb to groom their hair everyday. Use a good spray to maintain the hair sheen and softness. Grooming is a good activity to assign your kids.

• Haircut - A Shitzu is a sweet pretty dog whose hair requires regular trimming. Mostly, you should trim the hair around the dog's eyes to enhance them, and to prevent illness.

• Exercises - This tiny dog needs regular exercises. Some experts suggest a fifteen to twenty minutes walk. You could walk your dog around your locality, outdoors or indoors. This pet cannot do without daily workouts and play. You could allow your children to play with the dog each day. Make sure you do not let the sweet little puppy play with your baby girl or boy. The puppies have very sharp teeth and could bite the baby.

• Dog types - These dogs come in a wide range of colors. In fact, you can find an extremely rare color on these dogs. Mostly, the pets have deep black, deep red, or a combination of black and white or red and white colors. Generally, both female and male dogs have a solid color only or two colors only.

• Dog appearance - The main features that distinguish dogs; include the head, ears, nose, hair size, snout, teeth and so on. They tend to have a round head, black nose, drooping ears, and a short square snout. In addition, it has bountiful of hair around the ears, and has a mustache and beard. Its body coat is long and thick.

• Health issues - They require proper care and protection to prevent health problems. If you maintain good sanitation, feeding and exercise standards, this dog is easy to care for. You should search for extra health issues info on the dog though.

• Buying dog online - It is a good thing that the shopping exercise has become very simple. You only have to do it online. Look for genuine and reputable dog websites that offers enough information as well.

If you wish to have a sweet loving dog, shitzu dogs are ideal. They are friendly dogs with a special love towards their masters. All the tiny dogs should have is a good play, food, grooming, and intense love and care.

G. Smitty is a writer who loves to discuss many topics ranging from austin bazaar electric violin to professional basketball. Thanks for reading!

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Boxer dogs

While people may differ in tastes when it comes to choosing a breed, there's no debate on what one looks for in a pet. There are three desirable traits that every dog owner should be familiar with and these are:

* Low maintenance - Low maintenance means you do not have to spend so much money and effort on keeping the dog clean, healthy, and active. There are some breeds, especially long-haired ones, that require at least 2 baths daily just to keep them clean and smelling good. Others, like boxer dogs, require little more than a wipe-down and perhaps an occasional bath.

* Versatility - Dogs that can do more than just play a few tricks. Dogs that do well in obedience. Agile dogs with an intelligence to match. Dogs that can do jobs like being a police dog yet remain affectionate and playful. You can see for yourself why you would want a dog that has all these characteristics. Boxer dogs are one such breed that is gifted with versatility.

* Intelligence - Smart dogs are those that score well in the loyalty and obedience department. With boxer dogs, you will find little problem with that.

Dog Profile

The first thing you will notice about boxer dogs is its blunt face. Descended from the massive Molossian Hound, the boxer is a steady-gazed, friendly dog with incredible grace and a hint of mischief in its square, blunt-nosed face.

It's a muscular breed with a short coat and a docked tail. The male members of the breed stand at approximately 22.5-25 inches at the withers with weight of around 70 pounds. Females are smaller, sixty pounds in weight and 21-23.5 inches.

History

The boxer's ancestor, the Molossian Hound is part of an ancient breed of Greek guarding, fighting and herding dog. From the Molossian Hound were descended Greek, Roman, European and British breeds of dogs, which in turn gave birth to a number of large breeds with characteristic square heads. These dogs assisted men in the hunt and also at war.

Boxer dogs specifically came from the German line of the ancient Molossian descendants. Their direct descendant was the Bullenbeisser, which was later separated into two types - the Danzigers and the Brabanters. Of the two, Brabanters were the smaller and boxer dogs came from this branch of the family.

Brabanters were royal favorites, accompanying noblemen in great hunts. However, by the end of the 18th century, the art of organized hunting has all but faded. From great manor houses and castles to butcher shops and cattle farms, Brabanters continued to trudge on with the courage of its ancestors.

And somewhere along the way, they came to be known as boxer dogs. No one knows exactly how, but it could be because of the way they play, like pugilists sparring with each other. Or it could be because of their box-shaped heads.

El is the owner of the dog training. Visit http://www.dog-training-reviewed.com to find out more resources and offers for dog lovers.

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Dog pictures

Dog Pictures Come in All Shapes and Sizes

If you're searching for the perfect gift and are tired of buying items that everyone else has already picked out, you might want to visit the world of dog pictures. Since modern technology revolutionized the print world with digital cameras and high speed processes, more options have become available for discerning gift buyers. The infamous "Dogs Playing Cards", a past standard for dog picture retailers, has now been placed on the back shelf where it belongs, destined to become a classic at some point. It has been replaced by digital imagery, detailed diagrams, and sketches that are reproductions but appear to be the original masterpieces. Your choices are endless.

Technology hasn't just affected the art world. The frames and settings you can buy dog pictures in have also changed. Digital frames flash multiple photos at speeds you can set yourself. Lighted frames can give you the option of memorializing your pets, giving them a prominent place on the mantle where they can be seen by all. Even the old wooden frames have a new look. The tools used to manufacture them today make the edges cleaner and the seams virtually invisible. Etchings and carvings, though often created by machines, have a different feel and almost come alive to the touch.

Show Your Loyalty with Dog Breed Pictures

What kind of dog do you own? Do you have a favorite breed or have you been adopting strays? Either way, you can show your loyalty to your breed by purchasing a dog breed picture for the wall. You can find shepherds, pit bulls, boxers, terriers, cocker spaniels, and yes, even dog pictures dedicated to the ever popular mutt. There are dozens of breeds to choose from and hundreds of ways that they have been immortalized in pictures. All of the standard options listed above are available and you can find any background you like. Would you like to see a picture of your dog running in an open field or along the beach? Do a little shopping and you're likely to find both.

Portrayals of your dog aren't limited to just dog pictures, either. Manufacturing processes for wood, metal and plastics have all given the dog gift industry new ways to create figurines and novelty items that you've never seen before. These range from pot holders to toilet seat covers and bed spreads. The imagery is so real in some cases you'll think your household linens will bark back at you. You can even buy dog cases which hold dog figurines to mount on the wall you've dedicated to dog pictures.

Enjoy a Good Laugh with Funny Dog Pictures

Canines have been used in animation and cartoons for decades. Talking dogs have been both scapegoats and heroes on the silver screen and some, like Lassie and Underdog, have crossed generational lines. People have a fascination with dogs that goes beyond the feelings they have for any other animal. Perhaps that's why dogs have become known as "Man's Best Friend." Perhaps that's also why we find them so funny when they're portrayed in a caricature or other humorous depiction. Our closeness to these pets makes the identification needed for humor much stronger. In other words, it's easy to laugh at a funny dog picture.

Snoopy, Marmaduke, and Odie are all dogs who have showed up as cartoon characters and captured our hearts. Deputy Dawg became a childhood folk hero almost overnight and Scooby Doo captured the hearts of millions everywhere with his antics and distinctive speech. When you're buying a gift for your loved ones this holiday season, think about them and the many dog pictures they've been portrayed in. There's a good chance that your dog lover friends were fascinated with them at some point, maybe still today. Why not buy them a classic picture of one?

Soften the Room with Puppy Dog Pictures

If you have small children, there is nothing on earth cuter than a puppy dog picture for their bedroom wall. Kittens are cute, but puppies connect better with small children. Give them an early appreciation for the most loyal pet you can have by displaying puppy dogs frolicking at play or sitting quietly waiting to be a friend to a child who desperately needs one. Dogs, like all of the other creatures we choose to surround ourselves with, have a purpose in our lives. For some, they can be the only evidence that unconditional love exists. No other animal shows this more than a puppy.

Slide Shows, Videos, and Adopt-a-Dog Photos

Computer and video technology have given us multiple dog picture options which we might not normally look at when doing traditional shopping. Slide shows can now be developed using Powerpoint or other software which captures and displays your images. If you're looking for something that you can put some time and effort into to create a gift from the heart, check into creating a slide show presentation. Done properly, you can have images of your pets, your children, and a musical score in the background, all of which can be displayed on your computer or television.

Video has, of course, been around for quite a few years now, but the video editing tools available now are fairly new. You can create wondrous films and home movies that will keep an audience enthralled. There are also a number of dog video movies that you can buy, including all of the cartoons we've mentioned already in this article. Go back up a few sections and make a list. If you have kids, they will love each and every one of them. If you don't, rent them or buy them anyway. We won't tell anyone.

On a more serious note, if you are a dog lover and invite others to your home who feel the same way, please consider displaying an adopt-a-dog photo somewhere in the house where it will be seen. Humane societies and shelters publish these photos and they generally contain a powerful, often disturbing image of a dog in need of a family to take care of him. If you're buying dog pictures for gifts this year, make sure you get at least one of these for a friend or for your own home.

Dog pictures are a great add-on to any dog lovers house. Certain Dog Pictures can also bring out the personality of the homeowner and the dog lover.

Copyright (c) 2010 Trey Markel

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