Akita dog

 Akita dog
                                     information
The Akita is perhaps the most renowned and venerated of the native Japanese breeds. Although he bears a likeness to dogs from ancient Japanese tombs, the modern Akita traces back to the 17th century, when a nobleman with a keen interest in dogs was exiled to the Akita Prefecture of the island of Honshu, a rugged area with intensely cold winters. He challenged the landowners there to compete in breeding a race of powerful hunting dogs. These dogs distinguished themselves in the hunting of bear, deer and wild boar, holding the game at bay for the hunter. These Akita forebears were called matagi-inu, or "hunting dog." The breed's numbers and quality varied over the next 300 years. In the late 1800s, he underwent a period when he was used as a fighting dog, and some were even crossed with other breeds in an attempt to enhance his fighting prowess. In 1927, the Akita-inu Hozankai Society of Japan was formed to preserve the original Akita, and in 1931 the Akita was designated as one of Japan's natural treasures. The most honored Akita of all time was Haichiko, who greeted his master every evening at the train station to accompany him home. When his master died at work one day, Haichiko waited for him and continued to return and wait for his master every day until he died nine years later on March 8, 1935. Today, a statue and annual ceremony pay homage to Haichiko's loyalty. The first Akita arrived in America in 1937, when Helen Keller returned from Japan with one.


Following World War II, servicemen returned home with Akitas from Japan. The breed's popularity grew slowly until he received AKC recognition in 1972. Since then, he has steadily gained admirers and continues to grow in popularity. The Akita is now used as a guard and police dog in Japan.

Dachshund Dogs

Dachshund Dogs

The dachshund breed of dog is a wonderful breed that comes in six different varieties. The dogs vary in weight from under 5 kilograms (11lbs) which are the miniature versions, to 10-12 kilograms for the standard dogs.The coat type of the dog also comes in variations of smooth haired, longhaired and a wirehaired version.All of the six varieties of dachshund have a fairly similar body shape. They are low to the ground so they can get a better view of their prey, which is thought to be the badger, although they were also used to catch foxes.Many of the different varieties of dachshund suffered from back problems because they were bred to have longer backs without consideration given to them being able to cope with the extra strain on their muscles and structural build.


The dachshunds that are wirehaired do not need much grooming attention; it is the longhaired dachshunds that require a lot of grooming and regular attention given to its coat.None of the varieties of dachshunds require much exercise although it is always readily accepted.


The dachshunds have a load bark with the miniatures and smaller dogs having more of a load yap. They are excellent animals to be used as companions and will show their love in this way. While being protective around the home and around family members they will not hesitate to bite or use their teeth if pushed to far.

German shepherd dog health problems

German shepherd health problems do affect German shepherds, just like any other dog breeds. Despite the fact that this breed is healthy and fit and has a life span of 12-15 years, these can sometimes be expected. That is why it is necessary to purchase only a healthy German shepherd puppy from a reputable breeder.

 Some German shepherd health problems are hereditary while some are non-hereditary or bacterial in nature. If you are a German shepherd owner, you should be alert with any warning signs of diseases or ailments. The veterinarian as well as the breeder can help identify if you are dealing with normal health issues or behavior of your canine.

 You may also consult the vet with the German shepherd health problems that can be vaccinated to protect your pet from common illnesses in the future. Around 8-10 weeks, your German shepherd puppy may undergo vaccinations. Yearly worming and treating ticks or fleas are also recommended.

 To keep your German shepherd fit, provide him a healthy diet. Feed him foods that are only suitable to him. Definitely no sweets and other foods that will rot his teeth. Moreover, German shepherds are sociable dogs so they need to bond with their family and have plenty of exercises. Spend quality time with him to show your love and support to him.

 Here are six illnesses that can be seen in German shepherd dogs that you need to be aware of:

Bone or joint dysplasia

Developmental dysplasia of the hip or elbow joint is a German shepherd health problem that is also common in large dog breeds. Initially, your German shepherd dog may display no symptoms at all. Nevertheless, this can result to severe pain and lameness or difficulty in walking.

 German shepherds suffering from hip dysplasia may be cautious with their movement. If you notice your canine having difficulty in moving around, then, take him to the veterinarian right away.

Epilepsy

Sometimes, German shepherd health problems are very hard to deal with as they begin to show symptoms. They may even cause you to panic and feel helpless. Among these terrifying disorders is the epilepsy. It can cause seizures and convulsions to your German shepherd dog and this is seen quite often in this breed.

 Although this can be alarming, epilepsy can be controlled with medications. Therefore, if this happens, contact a dog professional right away to help you with eliminating the seizures and give you advice on proper diet to control the condition.

Visual problems

Always keep an eye on German shepherd problems that may affect your German shepherd’s eyes. Cataract may develop but can be easily removed with surgery. A certain condition called Pannus is an inflammation in the cornea and can be detrimental to your German shepherd dog’s optical health.

 In other cases, the German shepherd’s eyelids may not develop properly which can cause irritation and infection. If you notice your animal squinting, having excessive tearing or discharges, redness or any growth in his eyes, immediately have him checked with a veterinarian.

Bacterial infection

German shepherd health problems may also be brought about by bacteria. Pyoderma is a good example. This is a bacterial infection in the German shepherd’s skin. Its cause is unknown but is said to be due to immune deficiency.Watch your German shepherd dog for any sores, hair loss, redness and other abnormal skin conditions. In serious cases, Pyoderma may cause loss of appetite and lethargy.

Hemangiosarcoma

German shepherd dogs may also suffer from cancer diseases, just like human beings. Hemangiosarcoma is a cancer of the cells in the interior lining of the blood vessels and may affect the skin, heart, liver and spleen. Common symptoms are weakness, light-colored gums, abdominal distention and even unconsciousness.

 Hemangiosarcoma is a fatal disease. Routine dog check-e ups will help you discover the disease at an early stage.

Anal furuncolosis

Anal furuncolosis is a German shepherd health problem which is a deep penetrating infection around the anus of the German shepherd with an unidentified cause. However, it may be partly due to the German Shepherds large bushy tail, which curves down over the anus and prevents ventilation of the area.

Great Dane Dog health problems

DILATED CARDIOMYOPATHY


In January 2004 the Great Dane club of America published a survey which concluded that heart disease had overtaken bloat and cancer as the most frequently occurring fatal condition in Danes. Dilated cardiomyopathy is a degenerative heart muscle condition that gradually weakens the heart’s ability to pump blood effectively. It is usually associated with an enlargement of the left ventrical.If your Dane does develop cardiomyopathy, medication will relieve pain and make your best friend somewhat comfortable. But there comes a time when medication cannot provide relief and it is heartbreaking to watch as the end draws near. This condition is always fatal.


BLOAT


One of the health issues that is most commonly associated with the Great Dane is a condition known as bloat. This is a terrible medical emergency that can cause horrible pain and proves fatal in 40% of all cases.


Bloat is a gastric dilation of the stomach caused by an abnormal accumulation of gas or liquid. This can be dangerous enough in its own right, but sometimes it leads to a second stage called volvulus, which is a stomach twisting or tortion. This shuts the stomach off from the rest of the body and prevents any of the accumulated gas or fluid within to escape. The stomach continues to expand, setting off a catastrophic series of events that in most cases can only be averted with emergency surgery.


The “experts” have not determined the cause of bloat, although many breeders have concluded stress is the number one factor. There are just too many stories of responsible Dane owners returning home after work to find their animal dead. We had a gastropexy done so even though bloat could still occur (although statistically the chances have been greatly reduced because of this procedure), we at least know that our Bismarck will not suffer the volvulus, or stomach twisting .


ORTHOPEDIC CONDITIONS


Given the enormous growth of these beauties, it might be a reasonable assumption that orthopedic issues would be particularly prevalent. And they are.

Hip Dysplasia


Hip dysplasia is a genetic degenerative joint disease affecting the joints of the hip. The soft tissues surrounding the joints break down and the joints themselves begin to separate. The best way to avoid dealing with this issue is to choose your animal carefully. The Orthopedic Foundation for Animals (OFA) will examine xrays and rate the condition of the hips. Any breeder should be able to provide OFA rated documentation for the parents of your new puppy. This is excellent information. Be wary if this is not offered. Surgery can correct this condition in many cases, however a hip replacement will mean thousands of dollars in vet bills.


Wobbler’s Syndrome (Cervical Vertebral Instability)


Another orthopedic medical problem more frequently associated with Great Danes is cervical vertebral instability, or Wobbler’s syndrome. The symptom is a clumsy, or wobbly gait when walking. This Dane health problem is caused by a malformation in the neck vertebrae that causes pressure to be exerted on the spinal cord.


Wobbler’s is thought to be a hereditary condition, although there may also be a connection between this Great Dane health issue and nutritional deficiencies.


HOD (Hypertrophic Osteodystrophy)


Hypertrophic Osteodystrophy – there’s a mouthful! HOD is an orthopedic condition that occurs due to the rapid bone growth in Great Dane puppies. It causes severe joint pain (usually in the front joints, or pasterns) and is accompanied with fever. If HOD is going to strike, it usually occurs in puppies between four and seven months old.


The danger with this medical problem is that it can lead to severe secondary infections (i.e. pneumonia) that can be fatal.


If your puppy appears to be in pain and develops a temperature, HOD is the most likely culprit. HOD can be treated and provided it does not lead to further complications, is not life threatening.


Pano (Panosteitis)


Pano, is another bone health issue that occurs due to the rapid growth puppies go through during the first year. When the bones develop faster than the soft tissue around them, inflammation will sometimes result. A lump normally appears on one of the legs and although it can be stationary, it is not uncommon to see it migrate to the other one. This condition disappears once the Dane is a year old.


There is no cure for this health condition, although anti-inflammatory medication will manage it. The real secret to preventing pano is to properly feed during the first year. Don’t over feed, watch the protein levels and in particular, the calcium levels of you puppy. Growing your Great Dane too fast always leads to trouble.


OCD (Osteochondritis Dissecans)


Yet another puppy orthopedic condition – if this one shows up it is usually when your Dane pup is between four and eight months of age. It affects the shoulder joints and lower leg joints and occurs when cartilage at the end of the long bones (leg bones) is injured because it is not developed enough to sustain the impacts and stress from vigorous exercise.


There are medications that can manage this condition but in more serious cases, surgery may be required. The best way to approach this health problem is through prevention: try and limit the intensity of your puppy’s physical activity. During that first year of growth in particular, even though they look magnificent, they really are quite fragile!


HYPOTHYROIDISM


Skeletal issues aren’t the only type of condition that shows up in Great Danes. Another medical issue that is seen more often than anyone would like is hypothyroidism.


This is an inherited immune system disorder which inhibits the thyroid gland from producing sufficient hormones to support the Dane’s metabolism. It causes body systems to slow down and your beautiful Dane will display an unhealthy lack of energy and a complete disinterest in everything around him. This is totally unnatural behavior for these canine children! A blood test will determine if this is the problem and there are medications that will treat this condition.


CANCERS


All dog breeds suffer from cancers. Indeed, data is now starting to show that over 50% of ALL DOGS develop some kind of cancer in their lives. And more and more “dog people” are concluding that the processed dog food diets we have been using for the last 60 years may have a large part to do with that shocking statistic.


Great Danes are no exception – they get cancer as well. Fibrosarcoma, a bone cancer, is more common in Danes and usually appears in the jaw or legs. Hemangiosarcoma, an organ cancer, is also prevalent in our breed and in particular, seems to attack the spleen.


It is a good idea to get any new lump checked by a vet as quickly as possible. It may just be a cyst, but breeders generally agree that something like 20% of new “lumps” will be cancerous.


The only precaution a responsible owner can take against cancer is a nutritious and balanced diet. Although no formal studies have been completed, proponents of a raw dog food diet (BARF) say one of the benefits is the dramatic reduction in the instance of cancers as medical problems for their Danes.


So, those are the major Great Dane health problems any owner or prospective owner should be aware of. Despite the muscles and the obvious strength of these dogs, they can be delicate! However, proper screening of the parents, good nutrition, appropriate levels of exercise and lots of love will go a very long way in increasing the odds that your special Dane will not suffer from these health conditions.

Boston Terrier Health Problems

Boston Terrier Health Problems
Several health issues are of concern in the Boston Terrier: cataracts (both juvenile and adult type), cherry eye, luxating patellas, deafness, heart murmur, and allergies. Curvature of the back, called roaching, might be caused by patella problems with the rear legs, which in turn causes the dog to lean forward onto the forelegs.[2] This might also just be a structural fault with little consequence to the dog. Many Bostons cannot tolerate excessive heat and also extremely cold weather, due to the shortened muzzle, so hot or cold weather combined with demanding exercise can bring harm to a Boston Terrier. A sensitive digestive system is also typical of the Boston Terrier. In the absence of proper diet, flatulence is associated with the breed. In some cases, even a proper diet cannot abate flatulence.[8]


Bostons, along with Pug, Shih Tzu and other short-snouted breeds are brachycephalic breeds. The word comes from Greek roots "Brachy," meaning short and "cephalic," meaning head. This anatomy can cause tiny nostrils, long palates and a narrow trachea. Because of this, Bostons may be prone to snoring and reverse sneeze, a rapid and repeated forced inhalation through the nose, accompanied by snorting or gagging sounds used to clear the palate of mucus, but does not harm the dog in any way.[9][10]


Bostons frequently require caesarean section to give birth, with over 90% of litters

Afghani dog health problem

                                                 Afghani dog health problem
Mortality
Afghan Hounds in UK surveys had a median lifespan of about 12 years and 18 years if the dog is taken care of,[3] which is similar to other breeds of their size.[4] In a 2004 UK Kennel Club survey, the most common causes of death were cancer (31%), old age (20%), cardiac (10.5%), and urologic (5%).[5]
Morbidity and health concerns
Major health issues are allergies, cancer, and hip dysplasia. Sensitivity to anesthesia is an issue the Afghan hound shares with the rest of the sighthound group, as sighthounds have relatively low levels of body fat. Afghan hounds are also among the dog breeds most likely to develop chylothorax, a rare condition which causes the thoracic ducts to leak, allowing large quantities of chyle fluid to enter the dog's chest cavity

.
[6] This condition commonly results in a lung torsion (in which the dog's lung twists within the chest cavity, requiring emergency surgery), due to the breed's typically deep, "barrel"-shaped chest. If not corrected through surgery, chylothorax can ultimately cause fibrosing pleuritis, or a hardening of the organs, due to scar tissue forming around the organs to protect them from the chyle fluid. Chylothorax is not necessarily, but often, fatal.

Tibetan Mastiff health problem

Tibetan Mastiff health problem

 Life Expectancy Unlike most large breeds, its life expectancy is long, some 10–14 years. The breed has fewer genetic health problems than many breeds, but cases can be found of hypothyroidism, entropion, ectropion, skin problems including allergies, autoimmune problems including demodex, missing teeth, malocclusion (overbite or underbite), cardiac problems, epilepsy, progressive retinal atrophy (PRA), cataract, and small ear canals with a tendency for infection. As with most large breeds, some will suffer with elbow or hip dysplasia, although this has not been a major problem in the Tibetan Mastiff. Another concern includes canine inherited demyelinative neuropathy (CIDN), a rare inherited neural disease that appeared in one bloodline in the early 1980s.

 Canine Hip Dysplasia (CHD) takes many forms, e.g., the femoral head ("ball") may not fit well into the acetabulum ("socket"); the ligament connecting the two may be lax, allowing dislocation; there may be no femoral head at all. Not all forms cause clinical signs.
Very active, well-muscled dogs with no femoral heads may show no impairment. Their owners may be unaware of their dogs' "hip dysplasia" unless/until there is a reason to x-ray the hips.

As with all dog breeds, hip dysplasia is caused by the interaction of genes and environment. Inheritance of CHD appears to be polygenic, i.e., it is caused by more than one gene. Mode of inheritance (dominant, recessive, dominant with incomplete penetrance, etc.)has not been determined but may be different in different breeds. Rapid growth and weight gain in puppies may trigger or exacerbate a genetic tendency to all sorts of skeletal problems. Many TM breeders recommend against feeding "puppy food" and especially against feeding "large-breed" puppy food, as these concoctions may contain too many calories, leading to fat puppies. Some breeders and owners believe that supplementation with Vitamin C may prevent the development of CHD even in dogs with the genes for it.

Canine Inherited Demyelinative Neuropathy is an inherited condition that appeared in one of the prominent lines of Tibetan Mastiffs in the early 1980s. CIDN affect the peripheral nervous system. Nerve fibers are unable to transmit impulses from the spinal cord to the muscles because of the breakdown of the myelin sheath. Starting at approximately six weeks of age, affected pups begin to lose the ability to walk or even stand. Progression of the condition can take anywhere from a few days to two weeks.

 Because this condition is inherited as a simple autosomal recessive, it is virtually impossible to completely eliminate it from the gene pool. One known carrier was bred to over 30 times, producing at least 134 direct descendants. Many descendants of this dog are still being bred so there is always the risk—however slim—of producing more affected puppies. Breeders need to be cautious about pairing up any two descendants of this dog.

 Hypothyroidism is fairly common in Tibetan Mastiffs, as it is in many large "Northern" breeds. TMs should be tested periodically throughout their lives using a complete thyroid "panel". (Simple T2/T4 testing is virtually useless.) However, because the standard thyroid levels were established using domestic dog breeds, test results must be considered in the context of what is "normal" for the breed, not what is normal across all breeds. Many TMs will have "low" thyroid values but no clinical symptoms. Vets—and owners—differ on the relative merits of medicating dogs who "test low" but are completely asymptomatic. Some researchers think that asymptomatic hypothyroidism may have been adaptive in the regions of origin for many breeds, since less nutrition is required for the dog to stay in good condition. Therefore, attempts to eliminate "low thyroid" dogs from the TM gene pool may have unintended consequences for the breed.

In affected dogs, symptoms may include decreased activity and playing, increased sleeping, weight gain, poor skin and coat condition such as flaking and scaling, a "yeasty" smell to the coat, frequent ear infections, and negative changes in temperament. Fortunately, this condition is easily treated by the use of daily thyroid supplementation.

Osteochondritis Dessicans is a skeletal defect in which the cartilage lifts off the bone, becomes thickened and cracked, causes inflammation and pain, and in severe cases degeneration of the joint. This conditions strikes males more than females. Keeping an affected puppy lean may help but surgery may be required to relieve pain.

Panosteitis is inflammation of the bones that strikes young dogs. The animal will become lame in one leg and then the inflammation will shift to a different leg. This is one condition that corrects itself over time, and only pain medication is needed.

Hypertrophic Osteodystrophy (HOD) is a condition that affects young large breed dogs. It is very painful and prognosis is fair to poor due to recurring episodes of the condition. Clinical signs of HOD include fever, lack of appetite, and depression. Lameness may vary from mild to severe. With multiple limbs affected, the dog may be reluctant to stand or walk. HOD may be mistaken for Panosteitis without proper diagnosis.

Treatment is only supportive. Intravenous fluids are usually required to keep the patient hydrated. Nutritional support is provided with a feeding tube if the dog refuses to eat for five or more days. Pain is controlled with narcotics and NSAIDs. Antibiotics are used if the dog has signs of pneumonia or other bacterial infections. If the bones become twisted due to growth plate damage, corrective surgery may be indicated. Because the distemper vaccination has been implicated, inoculation should be delayed until the pet has been in remission for a couple of months.

Ear Infections can be serious and the dog should be taken to the vet if you see it shaking its head or scratching more than normal. Tibetan Mastiffs have pendant ears, making them more prone to ear infections. The vet needs to determine the cause, and may prescribe antibiotics and/or ear drops. Some ear infections are contagious to other dogs if they involve mites or some bacteria.

Pekingese dog Health problem

Heat problems
Because of their profuse coat, they tend to not take heat well. The heavier the coat, the greater the problem. Show dogs are often provided with ice packs to rest on because of the travel and varying climate conditions at show sites. However, for the average owner, I would urge caution during hot summer months when combining sun and a lot of exercise. They do love to sit in "sun squares" in your house until they are panting! I would also caution against any dog being locked in a car, but this is especially true for Pekes. Statistics say that on a 70 degree day, the temperature in a closed car can reach 110 in 5 minutes. Cracking the windows is not enough ventilation, and your dog will get heatstroke very quickly and die. Please consider this when wanting to take your dog with you.
 Eye Problems
Pekes are easily distinguishable by their large, bulging eyes. Naturally, this leads to several health problems. One of the most common problems is exposure, caused by the eyelids not closing properly on a blink. This problem has varying degrees of severity. Some pekes have it at birth and can lose their sight as early as 3 or 4 months, others start to encounter it at around mid-life, others never get it. It is treatable with various medicines. Another problem is caused by the fold of skin (wrinkle) over their noses. Often times, the hair on the wrinkle rubs directly against the eye, irritating it, and leaving it more susceptible to infection. The easiest method for treating this is to get a pair of blunt-tipped, curved scissors from any beauty supply store and keep the hairs trimmed. In severe cases, surgery can be done to remove this fold of skin. Another condition that pekes can have, as well as other dogs, is dry eye. This can only be determined by a vet through a litmus test, and is treatable with several over-the-counter salves.
On the other hand, a problem many breeders have with white and other light colored pekes is tear staining around the eye. It's usually a reddish-brown color, and can be the source of various infections.
 Back Problems
As is the case with many of the long breeds, pekes are prone to back problems. They should not be encouraged to do jump on furniture, and you should try to avoid making them climb stairs. These are the most common things that cause a slipped disc. Often times, a disc will slip and immediately pop back into place. This can make the proper difficult to diagnose, as X-rays will appear normal. This can be very painful for the dog, but it will heal within a few days. Your vet may prescribe pain killers, as well as something to make the dog drowsy so it will rest, allowing the injury to heal. Rest is usually the best thing for a disc which has just slipped out and in. More serious back problems can require surgery which can correct many problems.
 Conditioning of Coats
The most important part of obtaining a good show coat is nutrition, exercise, and proper grooming.
ExerciseElderly people buy pekes believing that they need little exercise, but this is wrong. While they do make wonderful apartment dogs, pekes also love to run and romp in large open yards or fields.


The important thing is that they have space to run, whether it's a fenced yard or just a long hallway. Most love to run around the house chasing each other, as well as outdoors. They will sniff and explore, so a fenced-in yard is a must if you can not always take them out on a leash yourselves. They love to go for walks, whether short or long, so they can be a great companion for the young and the old.
 Skin
Because of the excessive amount of wrinkling desired by breeders certain dogs, Pekes being one, can get a skin fold dermatitis, skin irritations and infections.
Achondroplasia (the "swimmer")
The puppies can't stand, but move around like turtles with all four legs extended outwards. It's a condition in which the bones don't harden properly. This can occur in breeds with short, think legs and heavy muscles, like Bulldogs and Pekes.
 Births
Natural, or sometimes Caesarean, because of their anatomical structures.

Bullmastiff health problem

COMMON DISEASES AND CONDITIONS IN THE BULLMASTIFF
The following list is meant to serve as a guide for understanding common health problems in the Bullmastiff. It is by no means all encompassing. The list is organized alphabetically and includes a synopsis on the given condition with focus on definition, symptoms, diagnosis, treatments, and prognosis. Owners may use it as a screening tool to help identify a health problem. It can also be used as a beginning point for discussion with veterinarians and breeders on health issues. Breeders may include this list in puppy packets to help new owners identify problems that might arise and to encourage an exchange of information.
ALLERGIES
Allergies are an immune mediated response by the animal towards a given antigen. Allergies can be caused by many things, including food, fleas, and the environment (i.e., grass or pollen). Symptoms often include red, itchy skin on the feet or groin, dry, flaky skin, excessive hair loss, reddened ears with a foul-smelling discharge, and weepy, watery eyes or a runny nose. The animals will often scratch or clean themselves excessively. Veterinarians have several techniques available to identify allergens including intradermal skin testing and blood tests. A simple process of elimination will sometimes suffice. Treatment may be as simple as eliminating a cause (such as a change to a natural diet). In cases where avoidance and environmental changes don’t help, antihistamines are sometimes used. More severe cases are often treated with short-term steroids. Immunotherapy ("allergy shots") can be very effective. However, allergy shots are not without risks. Due to the fact the animal is receiving injections of very small doses of what they are allergic to, there is the possibility for a systemic or anaphylactic reaction.

BLOAT (Gastric Dilation and Volvulus or GDV)
Bloat is a condition in which the stomach fills with air (dilation) and twists on its long axis (volvulus), thereby causing obstruction and cutting off the blood flow to vital organs. This potentially and often fatal condition can occur in any dog but is especially prevalent in large, deep-chested breeds. The exact cause is unknown. Bloat often occurs within a few hours of eating followed by excessive exercise, but it can also occur under normal, daily routine. Symptoms include abdominal distension, restlessness, pacing, unsuccessful attempts to vomit or pass stool, and lethargy. Diagnosis is confirmed by x-ray. Treatment can involve "decompression" (passing a tube through the mouth to the stomach to release the gas), but surgery is indicated in severe cases. Even in those cases where decompression is successful, surgery to prevent reoccurrence should be considered. Bullmastiff owners should be familiar with the signs and symptoms of bloat and establish a plan for immediate treatment. Early detection and immediate medical intervention is essential if the dog is to survive.

CANCER
Cancer is an immunologic condition brought about by a prolific response of a given abnormal cell type within the body. It is present in all breeds and the exact causes are unknown. In Bullmastiffs, the most common cancers are:

Hemangiosarcoma. This is a particularly aggressive form of cancer originating in the endothelial cells. It can appear anywhere in or on the body, but most commonly occurs in the spleen or other internal organs, and death can occur with little or no warning. A large mass may be felt in the abdomen; symptoms of sudden blood loss such as weakness or collapse may occur if the tumor ruptures. However, there may be no outward symptoms at all. Complete surgical excision of tumors in the skin (that have not invaded other tissues) can sometimes result in a good prognosis. When tumors are discovered elsewhere, the prognosis is poor.

Lymphoma/Lymphosarcoma. This is another aggressive form of cancer which involves the lymphatic system and sometimes the liver and spleen. Symptoms vary depending on which part of the body is affected, though the disease is most often detected due to enlarged lymph nodes on the neck. Chemotherapy can be an effective treatment, but prognosis is usually guarded.


Mast Cell Tumors. These are tumors that form when mast cells, a blood cell typically associated with the body’s response to allergens or inflammation, turn cancerous. They most often appear in the skin or subcutaneous tissues, but can metastasize to other areas of the body, especially the spleen, liver, bone marrow, and lymph nodes. Their "benign" appearance belies their unpredictable behavior. Prompt surgical excision and biopsy of any skin tumor is the best defense. Removal of the tumors generally results in a good prognosis.

Osteosarcoma. This is an aggressive form of bone cancer that primarily affects large and giant breeds. The first sign is usually lameness and/or swelling, most often in a front leg, and diagnosis is confirmed by x-ray. Unfortunately, by the time symptoms appear, it may well have metastasized to internal organs. Treatment involves surgery and chemotherapy, but the prognosis is usually poor.

CARDIAC
The most common heart problems in Bullmastiffs are valvular disorders, sub-aortic stenosis (SAS), and cardiomyopathy. Owners are encouraged to report to their breeders if any heart problems are diagnosed.

Heart murmurs. These abnormal heart sounds are usually caused by an abnormal heart valve. Heart murmurs can be congenital or acquired. While many congenital murmurs will never cause a problem during the dog’s lifetime, some can cause problems later on, and some may be early signs of more serious heart problems. Some heart murmurs are caused by a viral assault. Cardiomyopathy may be caused by such viral infection. If it appears that the dog is developing normally and there are no other clinical signs of heart disease, the murmur may be considered "innocent".

Sub Aortic Stenosis (SAS) is characterized by a narrowing of the outflow track from the left ventricle of the heart to the aorta. Thankfully, SAS is a relatively uncommon cause of a heart murmur. However, it can be life threatening and does show up from time to time. SAS is known to be hereditary. It is usually diagnosed with an echocardiogram and can be treated with medications.

Cardiomyopathy. This is, literally, "sick heart muscle".
While weakness, lethargy, stunted growth, exercise intolerance, fainting, or abnormal heartbeats (arrhythmias) may be present, both of these heart conditions (SAS and cardiomyopathy) can also progress undetected until they result in sudden death. Listening to the heart with a stethoscope is the first step in assessing a dog’s cardiac condition, but it is not always adequate, especially in a short-nosed breed such as the Bullmastiff. Further tests involving EKGs and cardiac ultrasound may be indicated. A consultation with a canine cardiologist is recommended when abnormalities are detected. Some treatments to manage cardiac disease are available through your veterinarian.

.

EYES
Entropion. This is perhaps the most common eye problem in all heavily wrinkled breeds, including the Bullmastiff. It is a condition where the eyelid inverts, or rolls inward, causing eyelashes and hair to rub against the cornea. It can be hereditary as well as an acquired condition (i.e., as the result of an eye injury). Any dog with recurrent or chronic eye discharge, watering, or irritation should see a veterinarian. Left untreated, this condition can result in some serious problems including infections. Surgical correction is the most effective treatment. Once again, owners are encouraged to report this diagnosis to the breeder.

Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA). PRA is another inherited eye disorder in which the retinas have either arrested development (retinal dysplasia, which generally appears around 2 months of age) or early degeneration (appearing anywhere after 1 year of age). This is not a painful disease, and the eyes appear normal. The first indications are usually a reluctance to enter a dark hallway or stairwell, a classic sign of early night blindness. An examination by a veterinary ophthalmologist will detect PRA, although there is no treatment at this time. The condition worsens over time and total blindness is the result. A diagnosis of PRA should be reported to the breeder. A DNA test has recently been developed to detect PRA. The disease is inherited as a dominant, meaning that there are no "carriers". Affected dogs have the disease, and non-affected dogs are clear. For more information regarding the new DNA test, contact Dr. Greg Acland at gma2@CORNELL.EDU.

HYPOTHYROIDISM

This condition results when insufficient thyroid hormones (usually T3 or T4) are produced. It is characterized by a wide variety of symptoms including: obesity, lethargy, hair loss (mostly in patches on the sides or tail areas), infertility, abnormal heats, skin and coat problems, interdigital cysts, and the onset of sudden aggression. Diagnosis is confirmed through blood tests. Treatment with synthetic thyroid supplementation is very effective.

KIDNEY AND URINARY
Chronic kidney failure is one of the most common canine conditions, and it afflicts all breeds. In many instances, it is a result of old age; the kidneys begin to wear out after a lifetime of filtering wastes from the bloodstream. Chronic kidney failure can also be attributed to renal diseases such as:

Glomerulonephritis: a disease in which the internal structures of the kidney become inflamed.

Renal Amyloidosis: an accumulation of abnormal proteins in the kidneys.

While chronic kidney failure is not a curable disease, it can be a manageable one if detected early enough.

Cystinuria is a hereditary disease in which painful kidney and bladder stones form, and it is more likely to cause serious problems in males.

Be alert for any symptoms that might indicate these as well as other kidney/urinary disease: frequent drinking, frequent urinating, difficulty passing urine, blood in the urine, decreased force of stream, vomiting, and/or bad breath. Routine blood work is also useful in early detection of kidney problems. Such diseases are often medically or surgically treatable, though not curable.

ORTHOPEDICS/JOINT DISEASE
Hip and elbow dysplasia plagues all dog breeds. The disease is characterized by abnormally formed joints and, quite often, accompanying degenerative osteoarthritis. In most but not all cases, the affected dogs will be quite lame. While dysplasia can be inherited, the exact mode of inheritance has not yet been established. Environmental and nutritional factors may also play a role in its development. Symptoms include lameness, pain upon walking or running, difficulty rising, problems negotiating stairs, and a decreased range of motion. Diagnosis includes a physical exam and x-rays and evaluations by registries such as PennHip or OFA. Treatment includes surgery, and nutritional and environmental management. A diagnosis of dysplasia should be reported to the breeder.

Cruciate ligament injuries, tears and ruptures in the knee, are common in the breed. Symptoms include rear leg lameness; a severe tear will prevent the affected hind leg from bearing any weight. The knee area may feel "thick" and may "crunch" when a range of motion test is performed. Strained ligaments can be rested through crating, leashed walks, and restricted exercise for several weeks. Torn or severed ligaments require surgery. Obesity is a major risk factor for cruciate ligament injuries. Trauma and prolonged inflammation of the joint, due to conditions such as patellar luxation have been implicated in these injuries.

There are several developmental bone diseases that primarily affect puppies of rapidly growing, large breeds, and males in particular. They are:

Hypertrophic Osteodystrophy (HOD). This condition is characterized by severe pain, swelling, and lameness, usually in multiple limbs, sometimes accompanied by fever. The cause is unknown, diagnosis is made by x-ray, and treatment is supportive (i.e., pain management, antibiotics, rest). Prognosis is good.


Osteochondritis Dissecans (OCD). This is a disease in which the cartilage is damaged and/or grows abnormally, resulting in severe joint pain. Symptoms include limping, especially in the shoulders, elbows, and hocks. Suspected causes are trauma, heredity, and nutritional imbalance. Confinement, a modified diet, and pain management are the recommended treatments. Surgical removal of the damaged cartilage is indicated only in the most severe cases. Complete or partial recovery is likely.


Panosteitis (Pano) This is a condition characterized by acute, sudden, "wandering" lameness brought on by rapid growth in the limbs. Symptoms may come and go over a period of weeks or months, and may also include fever and anorexia. Diagnosis can be made by x-ray, but in mild cases, an x-ray may not reveal the problem, so Pano is often considered a "diagnosis of last resort or exclusion" when all else has been ruled out. It is self-limiting and disappears spontaneously; the cause is unknown. Treatment includes rest, pain management, and exercise restriction. Lack of treatment may result in arthritic conditions later in life. The prognosis for complete recovery is excellent.

Pug health problem

                                                             Pug health problem

Since pugs lack longer snouts and prominent skeletal brow ridges, they are susceptible to eye injuries such as proptosis and scratched corneas and painful entropion.[2] They also have compact breathing passageways, leaving many unable to breathe properly or efficiently regulate their temperature through evaporation from the tongue. A pug's normal body temperature is between 101 °F (38 °C) and 102 °F (39 °C). If the temperature rises to 105 °F (41 °C) they are no longer able to cope with cooling themselves and their oxygen demand is greatly increased, and requires cooling down immediately. Should the temperature reach 108 °F (42 °C), the internal organs begin to break down at a cellular level which can lead to severe long term health issues or even death.[18]
Pugs living a mostly sedentary life can be prone to obesity, though this is avoidable with regular exercise and a healthy diet.[19] A UK Kennel Club survey puts the average life span of Pugs at 10 years.[20]
An investigative documentary carried out by the BBC found significant inbreeding between pedigree dogs, with a study by Imperial College, London, showing that the 10,000 pugs in the UK are so inbred that their gene pool is the equivalent of only 50 individuals.[21]
Serious issues
Pugs can suffer from necrotizing meningoencephalitis (NME), also known as pug dog encephalitis (PDE), an inflammation of the brain and meninges, that also occurs in other small-breed dogs, such as the Maltese and Chihuahua.


There is no known cause or cure for NME, although it is believed to be an inherited disease.[22] All dogs usually die or are euthanised within a few months after the onset of clinical signs, which usually occurs anywhere from 6 months to 7 years of age.[23]
This breed, along with other brachycephalic dogs (e.g., boxers, bulldogs), are also prone to hemivertebrae.[24] The screwtail is an example of a hemivertebrae, but when it occurs in other areas of the spine it can be devastating, causing such severe paralysis that euthanasia is a serious recommendation. The condition occurs when two parts of the spinal vertebrae do not fuse properly whilst a young pug is still growing, resulting in pressure being placed on the spine.[25]

Care must be taken to prevent a pug from becoming overweight.
As they have many wrinkles in their faces, owners normally take special care to clean inside the creases, as irritation and infection can result from improper care.[3] Hip dysplasia is a major problem for the breed, with 63.8% of pugs being affected according to a survey performed by the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals, and they were ranked second worst affected by the condition out of 157 breeds tested.[26]
The pug, like other short-snouted breeds, has an elongated palate. When excited, they are prone to "reverse sneezing," where the dog will quickly, and seemingly laboriously, gasp and snort. The veterinary name for this is Pharyngeal Gag Reflex. This is caused by fluid or debris getting caught under the palate and irritating the throat or limiting breathing. "Reverse sneezing" episodes are usually not harmful to the pug and resolve themselves. Massaging the dog's throat or covering its nose in order to make it breathe through its mouth can often shorten episodes.[27]
Pugs are one of several breeds that are more susceptible to Demodectic mange, also known as Demodex. This condition is caused by a weakened immune system, and it is a minor problem for many young pugs. This causes them to catch diseases much more easily than regular dogs do. It is easily treatable although some are especially susceptible and will present with a systemic form of the condition. This vulnerability is thought to be genetic, and breeders avoid breeding dogs who have had this condition. Inbreeding is also a known cause for these problems

Pug dog

The pug is a "toy" (very small) breed of dog with a wrinkly, short-muzzled face, and curled tail. The breed has a fine, glossy coat that comes in a variety of colors, and a compact square body with well-developed muscle. They have been described as multum in parvo ("much in little"), referring to the pug's personality and small size. Known in ancient China as lo-sze, they may have been responsible for both the modern Pekingese and King Charles spaniel.


They have Chinese origins, but were popularised in Western Europe by the House of Orange of the Netherlands and the House of Stuart of England, Ireland and Scotland.

They can suffer from a variety of health issues, including overheating, obesity, pharyngeal reflex and two fatal conditions which are necrotizing meningoencephalitis and hemivertebrae. In addition, care must be taken by their owner to clean their ears, and the folds of skin on their face
 

Dog Problem Solutions

                                                                        Dog Problem Solutions

Most people have seen the signs of aggressive dogs like bared teeth, growling, and biting, yet often people do not understand the reasons for aggressive behavior in dogs.


Getting a good grasp of the underlying reasons for this aggressive behavior is the first step to learning to curb them in your own dog. A well-behaved dog is often a happier dog, so getting the root of aggressive behavior in dogs is important to you as well as your dog.

Dominance Aggression

One of the reasons for aggressive behavior in dogs is that they want to establish dominance. This behavior can be exhibited toward humans, but it is more commonly shown against other dogs or animals. Canines are pack animals, and there is a certain hierarchy within that pack. Sometimes dogs think of the people in their family as their pack, and they will try to establish themselves as alpha dog, so aggressive behavior may occur when there are a lot of people or pets around.

Territorial Aggression

Along with dominance as one of the reasons for aggressive behavior in dogs, the dog's territorial nature is also common. Dogs often consider their home and family as a possession, and they will protect them all fiercely. Aggressive behavior may occur when a dog feels that someone has intruded on its space or is threatening its family. While it may be one of the admirable reasons for aggressive behavior in dogs, it is still undesirable and unacceptable in the world of human beings.

Fear Aggression

Fear is another one of the reasons for aggressive behavior in dogs. There are some specific signals that a dog is afraid, and those signs need to be taken seriously, because fear is one of the most misunderstood reasons for aggressive behavior in dogs. A dog in a state of fear will usually lash out because it feels cornered. The dog will usually show signs like growling, ears pulled back, and the tail between the legs. When a dog lashes out because it is afraid, the behavior is often mistaken for direct aggression rather than a reaction to the stimulus.

Predatory Nature

While some dogs may be afraid, others have strong instincts, so predatory behavior is another reason for aggressive behavior. Certain dogs love to hunt and chase down game. Sometimes cats, smaller dogs, or children can be mistaken by a dog as food.

Redirected Aggression

Another reason for aggressive behavior in dogs is redirected aggression, and it is very much misunderstood. This behavior occurs when a dog cannot take out its aggression on the actual object causing the fear, anger, or territorial thoughts. For instance, if your dogs are in the backyard and a person they perceive as an intruder enters the house, the dogs may turn on one another. However, some people do not understand the displaced aggression, because they do not know what started the aggressive behavior.

Medical Reasons for Aggression

Finally, there may be medical reasons for aggression in dogs that have not been diagnosed. While most dogs can be trained to not be aggressive if the aggression is behavioral, sometimes there is an underlying medical condition that needs to be treated. Also, some females are very aggressive when they are pregnant or nursing, and though maternal protectiveness is common in many nursing females aggression can be curbed through good training early on in the dog's life.

Taking a step back to look at the reasons for aggression in dogs and seeing where your dogs fits can be the first step in curbing the behavior. There are some different training methods you can use to curb the different types of aggression, so learning the reasons behind your dog's aggressive behavior can help you determine what training methods to use to be more effective.

Why do we offer free Dog Training Advice?

Dog Problem Solutions was set up because after reading magazine after magazine searching for quality dog training advice only to find no real advice, we decided to put together our own information resource and have made all this information available for free. That's not to say the information here isn't the latest.


"At this point, we don't want to put her through the whole major surgery and anaesthetic ... We think that's hard on her and extremely expensive," Cross said.

A Manitoba Conservation spokesperson said the bear was likely attracted to the cottage because of garbage that had been left out.

"We have been seeing with this very dry weather, the quality of the berries is going down," said Kelly Leavesley, a regional wildlife manager for Manitoba Conservation. "There has been some concern with reduced natural foods, it may be more common for bears to venture closer to humans looking for food."

Cross said the family typically removes garbage from their cottage area, however she admitted that on Tuesday they had left some garbage out by mistake.

"Knowing how to make sure that you're not providing attractants that will encourage bears to come close to you and your property is ... one of the most important messages that we can get out to people," Leavesley said.



Tips to stay safe include taking down all bird-feeders, double bag garbage and put in bear-resistant containers, clean garbage bins with bleach and keep pet food indoors.

Dog behaviour advice

All breeds of dogs sometimes show an aggressiveness in their behavior at some point of time. This is noticed in almost all the breeds of dogs. Sometimes we see our dog companion growling, barking, snarling, snapping, showing teeth in anger or even biting other dogs or even humans. Sometimes the dog might use an aggressiveness in its behavior so as to terrorize/ harm others. But the problem arises when the dog exhibits a constant aggressiveness in its behavior at all times which pose as a problem for the owner. An aggressive dog's presence in the family can be quite a headache to its owner. This results in disrupting the bond that the owner shares with its companion dog. Prior to taming an aggressive dog, its necessary on the part of the owner understand how to tackle such a problem. In the following lines, we have tried to help you understand your dog better, by detailing the various types of aggressive dog behaviors and ways of controlling the same.


Types of Aggressive Dog Behavior :
Dominance Aggression :

The dog gets aggressive as because he demands obedience, it is dominance aggression. Here the dog enjoys being the undisputed king of the household and will often be deaf to your dog commands. Even if the dog is patted or groomed or maybe asked to do certain things, he will exhibit aggressive behavior.


Territorial (Overprotective) Aggression :


In this case the dog shows an aggressiveness in his behavior when he believes that someone is intruding or violating his personal space/ belongings. Sometimes, the dog gets aggressive without the presence of any actual threat. Here the dog is guided by a sense of excessive protection for his owner/ house from other people or animals.
Fear Aggression :

Sometimes a dog tries to be aggressive out of his own fear, nervousness and insecurities. Such kind of a dog reacts to anything and everything. He is alarted by any sort of disturbance in the surroundings and which makes him exhibit aggressive behavior. He might even try to bite when you try to pacify him.


Predatory Aggression :


This is quite a dangerous aggressive behavior in dogs. Anything that moves triggers an aggressive behavior in him which can be very dangerous. One can witness this behavior with street dogs that chase moving vehicles. Sometimes playing children, joggers or even normal pedestrians fall a prey to them.
Punishment Aggression :


Sometimes, the dog gets severe punishment from its owners which disturbs his emotional wellbeing and can turn out to be unhealthy and dangerous. The dog's confidence is shattered by this behavior which makes the dog see his master as a source of threat, and retaliate by displaying aggressive behavior sooner or later.


Pain Aggression:


Sometimes when a dog is touched in sensitive, infected or cramped areas it can turn aggressive. Various health problems like arthritis in dogs, ear problems in dogs and hip dysphasia in dogs also make his temperament foul and vivacious. Thus, such an aggressive behavior is the result of his painful condition.


Maternal Aggression :


This kind of aggression is seen in female dogs, when they rear and feed their new born pups. If any human or animal approaches the whelping area she might instinctively exhibit aggression. As her puppies grow, maternal aggression slowly disappears in the mother.
Dog Aggression :


This type of dog-to-dog aggression is seen in puppies while they play and learn in their early stages. This should be curbed at once. If such behavioral patterns are left unattended, its gives rise to adult dogs that can be highly dangerous. Dog-to-dog fights generally take place for various reasons like territory, food, dominance or fear.

Redirected Aggression :

A dog which is already aggressive might redirect his aggression to anyone. In such a case, the dog is already aroused/ agitated and tries to harm whoever tries to interfere with or put an end to his aggression. Thus, its always better to find out the primary precipitating factor of the dog's aggression and treat / prevent it.



Stopping Aggressive Dog Behavior :



Handle the puppy/dog with care and show him that you care for him and love him.
Let the dog know and understand his position in the family.
The right breed of dog needs to be selected that suits your lifestyle and habits.
Never make your dog a part of aggressive games and play.
Provide your dog with rewards for displaying good behavior.
Mild discipline should always be maintained.
Provide him enough mental and physical exercise.
Don't pat or praise him excessively, without any reason.
Don't be too harsh on your dog and mete out unwarranted punishment on your dog.
Don't leave the dog unsupervised with strangers and small children.
Consult your veterinarian and appoint a good trainer.

As we see that a dog might be aggressive because of various reasons, it is very important for us to see and understand the underlying cause and psychology behind the aggressiveness of the dog. Leashing an aggressive dog in a secluded corner or meting corporal punishment will not do any good.



Try the above suggestions and tricks and be the proud owner of a happy dog.

Rabies Treatment for dogs

Dog Rabies information

The rabies virus affects dogs and all other warm-blooded animals. In wildlife animals, rabies is  commonly seen in foxes, skunks, raccoons and bats. Each of these species carries a variant strain of the rabies virus. All of these strains can affect animals. Domesticated animals such as cows, horses, dogs and cats commonly act as a source for human infections but people can be infected from wildlife sources as well, particularly bats.

Rabies Control

The first step to controlling rabies in dogs an other pets is vaccination. All healthy pets should be vaccinated. The rabies vaccine is very effective, inexpensive, and is usually given every 3 years. In horses, it is usually given every year. In most localities, the law requires rabies vaccinations for all pets.



The second step to rabies control is a thorough understanding of this terrible disease so that risk exposures or contact can be prevented. The third step toward controlling rabies is cooperation between veterinarians, the public, the public health system, and those government agencies who  monitor and control rabies on a regional level. For example, in some parts of Canada, bait is dropped from airplanes into rural or countryside areas so that wildlife will eat the bait (disguised as food treats) laced with an effective protective vaccine. Public health departments also track and manage human exposures. Rabies moves to and from animals and people through a bite wound or through breaks in the skin or mucous membranes. It’s thought people can become infected by breathing air around bats, such as in bat caves where the virus is suspended in droplets in the air.

Rabies Treatment

Rabies is almost always fatal. However, if a dog or person is bitten by a rabid animal and begins treatment prior to experiencing symptoms, there is an effective post-exposure treatment, which involves an injection of immune globulin and several rabies vaccines given to the infected victim over a 28-day period.

Disease Progression

Once the rabies virus enters the body of the animal or person, it travels to the central nervous system along the nerve fibres. It sets up a base in the brain and spreads back out into the body using the nerves to move around. The virus particles end up in many body tissues. Of particular importance are the salivary glands. Once rabies viruses enter the salivary glands they're present in large numbers in saliva and are easily spread between animals or people via licking or biting.

Rabies Symptoms

Once infected, dogs and other animals may show widely differing symptoms depending on what stage of the infection they are in. Early in the infection they appear completely normal. This pre-symptom phase can last for long periods of time. A bite on the face will tend to lead to a shorter prodromal phase since the virus is close to the brain, while a bite on the tip of the tail or paw may result in a long phase because it takes longer for the virus to travel to and from the brain.



For a few days at the very end of this prodromal or normal-behaviour phase, rabid dogs and animals can pass the virus on to other animals or people. This is the greatest time of risk because the typical rabies behaviours are absent. Once clinical signs of illness start, the animal only has about a week to live. Typically a phase occurs where rabid animals becomes very nasty, and will be irritable and snap and bite without being provoked or bothered. They may attack. This phase is termed furious rabies because the animal seems uncontrollably angry. Finally, the animal becomes progressively paralyzed, termed dumb rabies, and dies because the muscles for control of swallowing and breathing, amongst others, lose their function.
Unfortunately, not all cases follow typical progressive symptoms. For example, rabid cats often become overly friendly and affectionate rather than vicious. They can snuggle up to a child and suddenly lash out with teeth and claws after appearing quiet and nice. A dog may just show what appears to be a paralyzed tongue hanging out. The dog may be quiet, with jaw hanging open and saliva dribbling out of the mouth. One might think he had something like a stick stuck in the roof of his mouth! How about a cow that is restless, foaming at the mouth and when approached, is irritable and grabs a person? Though cows do not have a pile of sharp teeth at the front of their mouth like dogs or cats, this can result in a bite that breaks the skin. How about a pony in a petting facility that gets "nippy" and bites those passing by? Affected animals may also have trouble drinking or eating, and run a fever.
Do these stories sound far fetched? They are all cases veterinarians have seen in practice, so never forget that any animal acting in any unusual fashion can be showing signs of rabies! That is why rabies is called the great pretender. It can look like many other conditions, and can be very different from the vicious biting rabid animal image we hear about.

exercsie for Dogs

                                              Information 

Some daily activity and exercise is essential, allowing freedom to move about in a natural manner. Lack of exercise leads to poor muscle tone, obesity, heart ailments, bone disorders and often results in emotional problems and dog behavior quirks. Dogs with no exercise subjected to overcrowding and confinement in cages for prolonged periods, often their entire lives, develop a great variety of physical and emotional disorders.




An exercised dog may rest more calmly at home and be less nervous when left alone. Exercise can improve dogs bone and joint health, heart, and lung function. Exercise makes show dogs look better and feel better to a judge's exploring hands. (Because a happy dog looks more gorgeous).



The best exercise channels the activity of both mind and body. Some people believe that dogs need a big garden so they can get plenty of exercise. The truth is that most dogs do not exercise when they are outdoors by themselves; they spend most of their time laying in the shadow and waiting for "their people" to play with them.



You do not need to take up marathon running in order to adequately exercise your dog.



Make your walks interesting. Let your dog carry a box, a basket, or a toy while walking. Let your dog jump or balance over a tree, hide his toys, hide yourself, and most important – let him play with other dogs! Open the leash when another dog approaches, to prevent “leash-aggression”. (Don’t worry, they will not kill each other). A dog that tries to "guard" against all strangers is neither happy nor likely to live out a full lifespan. Help your dog learn to enjoy other dogs and people.




Teach your dog to retrieve. A dog who retrieves is easy to exercise. But throw the toy rather far than high. Jumping high in the air to chase it and landing awkwardly may lead to serious knee injuries.



Some games to play



FIND IT

This one is great fun for the dog. Show your dog a treat or his favorite toy, and then place it out of his sight but easily accessible in a dark room. Tell him to SEEK - his success you will praise enthusiastically. Obviously, the rewards for the dog are multiple - he gets a treat or finds his toy plus a very happy handler. If using a toy, be sure to reward his find with some play before starting again.

You can increase the difficulty of FIND IT by hiding the dogs treats in less accessible places, like in a shoe, or on a low shelf. This can be practiced indoors as well as anywhere else!



Alternative exercise:



Tunnel exercise - Make a tunnel or maze with some old cardboard boxes or chairs and encourage your dog to explore and go through it.



Concentration exercise – Hide some treats inside an old wash-glove or in a rolled up towel, this is fun for your dog!



Brain exercise – Turnover a bowl and hide the treats under it. Doggie must use his creativity to turn the bowl and get all treats. That is exciting exercise!

Bullmastiff dog

The Bullmastiff is a dog of incredible strength, keen alertness, and surprising endurance. Although characterized by gentleness, they are a natural guardian of the home and will not back down from a fight. To strangers they are rather standoffish, but they are loving toward their owner. Bullmastiffs are normally very gentle, cheerful and calm. They make a devoted, gentle companion. They are also known as the "gamekeeper's dog" because they were bred to accompany gamekeepers for the ability to track and overpower a poacher.




History/Origin:
Developed in the late nineteenth century by crossing the Mastiff with the Bulldog. He was breed to combine power, speed and a keen sense of smell with the courage and aggression of a bulldog. In 1924 he was standardized and was officially recognized in England.



Height: 25 - 27 inches

Weight: 90 - 130 lbs.

Colors:
Shades of brindle, fawn or red. Slight white marking on the chest is permissible, black muzzle.

Coat:
Short, smooth, dense




Temperament:
Loving, courageous, loyal; Tolerates children; Should be socialized with other animals at an early age

Care and Exercise:
Minimal brushing of his coat. A good rubdown with a rubber brush or massage glove will remove old dead hairs. Nails should be kept short. Diet and daily exercise need to be balanced to prevent obesity. Daily walks or lost of running space is ideal.