20+ Chinese Dog Names: For Shar-Pei, Shi Tzu, and Many Other Dog Breeds

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April 18, 2024

Chinese dog breeds are ever so popular these days. Known for their intelligence, cuteness, and loyalty, it’s no wonder why they are the darling of many dog-loving families.

While you have every right to give them common western dog names, we do think it’s a great idea to respect their heritage by giving them Chinese dog names.

The Chinese have over 5000 years of heritage, and their names can symbolize virtue, serenity, and ancient treasures. Your dog will no doubt feel happy about being given such a formidable name.

Also, Chinese names still sound unique in the US, and many dog owners want a unique name for their pet. Having a unique name has many advantages.

For one, your dog will easily recognize the name, so calling them in a crowded dog park is not a problem. It is also a good way to become popular with other dog owners since many of them will be asking you what the name means.

Your dog will have an easier time remembering his name, and people will also find it easier to remember you and your dog.

Finding a good Chinese name for your dog can be hard. Their names are very diverse due to the Mandarin and Cantonese dialects, different dynasties, and religions.

Fortunately, we have tips on how you can find inspiration for your Chinese dog name. Read on to discover some of the best suggestions on Chinese dog names.

How to Name Your Dog

Your dog’s name actually says a lot more about you than your dog. Deciding to give your dog a Chinese name could mean that you are Chinese, love the culture, or just want something unique to call an equally unique pup.

Either way, we believe that you’re on the right track. Chinese names for dogs are not only suitable for Chinese breeds like the Chow Chow, Shi Tzu, or Shar Pei. You can also give them to dogs of all breeds simply because it is easy to call or it is perfect for your dog.

If you don’t have a list of potential names to give to your new best friends, consider these Chinese names that sound new and exotic to western ears. But before you do, here are some tips you need to consider on how to name your dog.

How Does It Sound?

Although more common nowadays, Chinese names still sound weird for many of us who live in the US. When giving your dog a Chinese name, consider how it sounds when you say it in public.

Chinese names have different meanings—which is probably why you gave them to your dog. However, most people probably don’t know what they mean and could get confused or might take offense to your dog’s name.

Wang, for example, is a very popular Chinese name for males and females. Dong is also another popular option for males. The first example means royal or imperial while the second one means “born in the east.” These are perfectly respectable Chinese names. However; some people might find them offensive.

Other people will also be confused with names like Bimming (male, meaning “as clear as jade”) since it sounds like beaming or Ah (unisex, meaning “little one”), Ju (female, meaning “daisy flower”), and Chin (unisex, meaning “golden”). In this connection, it is also better to avoid names that sound like standard commands. Since you’re in the west, chances are you will be speaking to your dog in English and commands will be in this language.

Names like Bo (unisex, meaning “wave-like”) and Ho (male, meaning “good”) are good options but sound like no. Wei (unisex) is another popular Chinese name especially in China because it means “power” or “greatness.” However, it sounds very close to “stay” and you don’t want to confuse your dog.

You should also consider saying no to Ya (female) even though it means “elegant” or “graceful” because it sounds very close to yeah. Your dog (and other people) will be confused since they will have no idea whether you are calling their names or giving a command.

Distinctive

When it comes to dog names, we want something unique and distinctive. We want our dog to recognize their name immediately when they are called. There’s nothing wrong with naming your dog Jack or Buster since they are popular. However, the popularity is also a downside because there are lots of other dogs that have this name.

Chinese names are more unique in the States since not many people will choose this type of name for their pets. Still, you will want to avoid generic names like Gou (Chinese word for “dog).

Not only does it sound silly to the Chinese, but it also sounds like “go,” the command. Also, names like Li Na (female, meaning “elegant”) and Li Wei (male, meaning “great”) are some of the most popular Chinese names, so perhaps avoid those names especially if you live in China.

From Puppyhood to Adulthood

For dog owners that got their dog during puppyhood, it can be very hard to imagine your pet all grown up, especially if he’s all cuddly and cute right now. But dogs do grow up, and it’s probably better if you choose a name that suits him even during his senior years.

For example, it is quite easy to call your puppy Baobao as it means baby in Chinese. But this name is not fitting especially if he is a grown-up or works as a bomb-sniffing German shepherd.

It is important that you give your dog dignity even if not all people know the meaning of the name. Other names or words to avoid include Ke Ai (cute), General Tso (the deep fried dish), and Mei Mei (sister).

Chinese Dog Names by Gender

One of the easiest ways to choose a name for your dog is by gender. Chinese female dog names are beautiful-sounding and often associated with nature. On the other hand, Chinese male dog names give off a feeling of power and authority.

Chinese Female Dog Names

If your dog is female, here are some great ideas on how to name your pet.

Ai – meaning “loving.”
Chun Hua – means “spring flower.”
Chynna – is an obvious Chinese name but comes with an unconventional spelling. It means “fine porcelain.”
Dong Mei – means “winter plum.”
Fang – means “fragrant.”
Hua – pronounced h-waa. It means “flower.”
Jia — meaning “beautiful.”
Jun – is a great name for a dog because it means “truthful and obedient”; all good qualities for your pets.
Lee – is very common especially in the States but you should still consider it because in Chinese it means “plum.”
Lian – means “dainty and delicate.” Great option for teacup dogs like the Pomeranian, Yorkies, Maltese, Toy Poodles, and Shih Tzus.
Lin – is for “beautiful jade.”
Luliv – meaning “dewy jasmine.”
Mei- (not to be confused with Mei Mei) is a good alternative for the conventional May or Mae. In Chinese, it means “beautiful flower” or “gorgeous.”
Meiying – means “beautiful flower.”
Mingmei – this name is pronounced “ming-mii” and means “bright and beautiful girl”; the perfect name for a bright and beautiful dog.
Nuan — pronounced as noo-wan, means “affectionate.”
Nuwa – pronounced as noo-wa, means “mother-goddess.”
Shu – means warm-hearted.
Sying — pronounced as sing. It means “star.”
Wenyan — it means “refined and virtuous.”
Xiaolian – pronounced “zee-ow-lee-an.” It means little lotus.
Xue- pronounced as “sheh or shweh,” meaning “snow”
Yenay – pronounced as “yee-nae” meaning “she who loves.” Good option for strong and loyal dogs.
Yue – pronounced “yoo-way,” meaning “moon.”
Yuming – meaning jade brightness
Zhen — meaning “chaste.”
Zhenzhen — it means precious
Zi — is for beautiful

Chinese Male Dog Names

There are actually more males compared to females in China. This means that you have a lot of names to choose from if your dog is male.

Here are some great choices for your best friend.

Chanming – it means “forever bright.”
Chaoxiang – it means “expecting a fortune.”
Chen — very popular because it means “great.”
Chen Gong – it means “success.”
Cheung – it means “good luck.”
Dao – it means “knife” or “sword.”
Dingxiang – meaning “stability and fortune.”
Dishi – it means “man of virtue.”
Fu – it means “wealthy.”
Fu Han – it means “broad-minded.”
Heng – “eternal,” because best friends are forever.
Huan – it means “happiness.”
Hui — pronounced as “who-wee,” meaning “splendor.”
Ji — meaning “lucky.”
Jian min – “one who serves (the people)”; a.k.a. good boys
Junjie – means “handsome and outstanding.”
Lei — means “thunder.”
Liang – meaning “good, excellent.”
Liko – pronounced as “lee-kow,” meaning protected by Buddha.
Ling – means “compassion” or “understanding.”
Lok – another word that means “happiness.”
Longwei – it means ”the greatness of a dragon.”
Ming-Hua – it means “brilliant, elite.”
Ping- it means “stable.”
Quan — it means “fresh water spring.”
Quon – meaning “bright.”
Ru — “scholar,” for smarty pants pets.
Weisheng – meaning “greatness is born.”
Weizhe — meaning “great sage.”
Xin — pronounced as “shin,” meaning “new.”
Yongrui — means “forever lucky.”

Chinese Dog Names by Personality

If choosing through gender sounds too easy, you can take your time to observe your pooch and find names that best describe their personality.

For example, the name Yen is for females and means “yearning.” This can be a good name for pets that are always missing or pining for you.

Check out these great inspirations.

Ah lam (female) — meaning “peace”
Ai (female) – means “loving”
An (unisex) – means “peace” or “peaceful”
Bing (male) – means “soldier”
Chong (male)– meaning “powerful”
Chung (male) – “wise one”
Cong (male) — means “intelligent”
Gan (male) – means “bold” or “brave”
Han (male) – another name for brave dogs
Hao (male) – for smart and clever dogs
Hong Li (male)- for dogs with great strength
Hui (female) — meaning “kind”
Huiqing (female) – pronounced as “hwee-king,” meaning kind and affectionate
Huizhong (female) pronounced as “wee-jhong,” meaning “wise and loyal,” a.k.a good girls
Jiao (female) — means “charming”
Jie-Rui (male) – “quick-minded”
Kai (male) – “victorious”
Ken-Zhi (male) — means “earnest”
Kuai (male) – pronounced as “koo-eye,” meaning “quick, fast, or clever”
Minzhe (male) — means “sensitive and wise”
Qiao (female) — means “skillful”
Quiang (male) –pronounced as “kee-yang,” means “strong”
Shilin (male) — intellectual or really smart doggies
Shu (female) – for kind and gentle girls
Xueyou (male) – pronounced as “zhe-yoo,” means studious and friendly, for dogs that graduated with top honors
Ying (female) — means “clever”
Yingzie (male) — means “brave and heroic”

Chinese Dog Names by Size

Dogs come in all shapes and sizes. You don’t have to be literal and call them Da, meaning “large,” or Xiao for “small.”

Here are some great alternatives.

Gang (male) – meaning “strength.”
Jian (male) — healthy, not necessarily fat
Ming-tun (male) — means ”intelligent or heavy”
Shan (male) – meaning “mountain”
Xiaobo (male) — meaning “little wrestler”

Chinese Dog Names by Color

Dogs are black, white, brown, spotty, and a range of other beautiful colors.

Here are great options for finding names based on their coat and fur.

Bai (unisex) — pronounced as “bye,” meaning white
Cai (female) – “colorful”; good option for merle-coated dogs
Chang (unisex) – “sunlight”; good name for tan-colored dogs
Dai (female) – pronounced as “dye,” meaning “dark”
Daiyu (female) — meaning “black jade”
Hong (unisex) – “rainbow”; nice choice for merle-coated dogs
Huang (male) – “yellow”
Jin (male) — meaning “gold”; nice option for tan-coated dogs or golden retrievers
Liang (male) — means “bright”
Manchu (male) — means “pure”; good for solid colored dogs
Qiu (unisex) – pronounced as “cue,” meaning autumn for dogs with reddish coats
Quing (female) – pronounced as “king,” means dark blue. Can be an oxymoron for light-colored coats or fur
Shu (female) — pronounced as “shoo,” meaning “fair”
Shun (female) — pronounced as “shoon,” meaning smooth
Tao (female) – “peach.” We know there are no peach-colored dogs, but the name sounds nice and rolls off the tongue easily
Xue (female) — pronounced as “zoo-weh,” means snow
Yang (female) – “sun”; good name for golden retrievers
Yu (female) — means “jade”

Chinese Dog Names Inspired by Towns or Cities

Another way to give your dog a Chinese name is to choose a town or a city in China. The top 7 most popular are: Beijing (formerly Peking), Shanghai (China’s largest city), Hongkong (Xianggang in Chinese, a unique alternative), Guangzhou (Canton), Taipei, Macau, and Lhasa.

If these names sound too popular or too obvious, you can try cities that are spectacular but not too popular.

Xi’an – pronounced as “zee-yan.” This city is known as the “Window to China’s Ancient Civilization.” Xi’an is blessed with a great number of precious relics and historical sites.
Guilin – has marvelous limestone scenery and is known as one of the most beautiful places on earth.
Hangzhou – as declared by Marco Polo, Hangzhou is the most beautiful city in the whole wide world.
Chengdu –the hometown of the Giant Panda, an animal most associated with China.
Suzhou – is famous for its traditional Chinese gardens and water towns. This is a great place to go if you want to see traditional Chinese villages.

Wrap Up

Thanks to migration, foreign-sounding names are becoming more common stateside. The Chinese, for example, are some of the most well-represented minorities in the United States.

While some of them have English or American names, there are still many of them who use Chinese names themselves or to name their pets. Although they are common in the States, Chinese names still sound exotic and unique—which is why many dog owners are giving Chinese dog names to their pets.

If you’re thinking about Chinese names, certain names like Mai, Chen, Ling, or Yang readily come to mind.
However, there are many other names besides these popular choices. Try to find unique names that are not run-of-the-mill so that your dog can have a name that is all their own. Remember, the more unique the name, the less chance that there would be another dog running to you when you call.

Chinese names often have other meanings besides those listed above; one Chinese word can have many different meanings depending on how it is pronounced or written.

If you’re thinking about picking a Chinese name for your dog, do a little research first to make sure that the name is fitting for your pet. Don’t forget to consider how it sounds to other people since you do not want to upset or alarm them.

Most Loyal Dog Breeds: 10 Amazing Breeds to Count On

By

Vinko Woodman

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April 18, 2024

Dogs are generally man’s best friends as they are among the most faithful and most trusted companions. They offer unconditional love to their owners and to their entire family as well.

We all know that the dog was the first domesticated animal by man. It protects people, offers companionship and affection for more than 15 thousand years. Sociability, attachment, defense and loyalty are just some of these quadruped qualities.

At present, there are around 500 dog breeds in the entire world, and their evolution is still in progress.

Today we’re going to talk about most loyal dog breeds out there so you know what sort of companion you’ll get in your house.

Among the most loyal breeds there are dogs like Akita Inu, Rough Collie, Kuvasz, Beagle, Yorkshire Terrier, German Shepherd, Saint Bernard, Brittany, Golden Retriever and American Staffordshire Terrier.

The particular types of dogs listed here are always ready to go to the end of the world and back for their owners. They are always willing to help and they offer unconditional love.

Their purpose is to protect the persons who take care of them and stand by their side regardless of how inconvenient it might be. Besides being loyal, these canine specimens are also obedient and intelligent.

It is even said that they have an extraordinary ability when it comes to understanding their owners. But we shouldn’t generalize things as each breed is impressive in its own way.

Dog Breeds That Offer Unconditional Love

Even if dogs are usually loyal, there are 10 most loyal breeds worthy of your attention. As it follows, you will learn more about each breed and in case you don’t have a dog, you can think of getting one according to their most compatible features.

These dogs’ high level of loyalty is a result of the many changes they went through over time. There are countless stories involving representatives of any of these 10 dog breeds that make amazing things for their owners. Akita Inu is especially known thanks to the highly emotional movie “Hachi: A Dog’s Tale”.

1. Akita Inu

History and origins: Japanese history describes the ancestors of Akita Inu as one of the oldest breeds in the area. They are the Matagi breed. The Akita dogs from our days are originated from the island of Honshu that encompasses a region called Akita, thus the name of the breed. DNA tests have shown that this breed is one of the oldest domesticated one.

They are, genetically speaking, the closest ones to wolves. During World War II, a considerable amount of Akita dogs were murdered for their fur (it was used for making military clothes) and some of them died of hunger. However, during the years after the war, several dedicated breeders have contributed to their multiplication.

Some American soldiers who fell in love with this type of dog breed brought a few specimens back in the US. Of course, there is a difference between Akita Inu and American Akita. Those born and raised in America have suffered some modifications due to several crossings with other dog breeds.

Personality traits: Dogs belonging to the Akita breed are very intelligent, fearless and spontaneous. They are very loyal to their owners and quite aloof and wary of strangers. They are sometimes aggressive with people they do not know.

Moreover, they are very protective when it comes to family, territory and their food. If they are not familiarized with other dogs and other pets in general, they tend to react aggressively towards them when they grow up. Even if they don’t bark a lot, they are very good guard dogs. Not recommended for inactive people, Akita dogs get bored easily and can produce damage if they are not kept busy.

To learn more about this breed, check out our article on the Akita Inu.

2. Rough Collie

History and origins: Rough Collie is originated from the border area of England and Scotland. The “collie” denomination is usually used for dogs that come from Scotland, but this particular breed is more spread in England than it is in Scotland.

They were made for guarding and guiding flocks, but in time they were domesticated further and they became much more than useful for just one purpose. During the last 2 or 3 centuries, this dog breed went through numerous transformations that are different depending on the area where they were born and where they had to adapt in order to live.

Personality traits: Rough Collie is a dog with a high intelligence level, sensitivity, gentleness, sweetness and, above all, loyalty. It gets along just fine with other pets and it is friendly with other dogs too. This canine specimen was used for guiding flocks, so it needs to be properly trained in order to ameliorate their leadership instincts.

Faithful, playful, obedient and protective of family members, the representatives of this breed behave really well around children. They have a peculiar sense of direction and they are full of energy.

Moreover, they are not aggressive, but they can feel people who emanate negative energy. The importance of having a single owner is mandatory in the case of a Rough Collie. Otherwise, it tends to become stubborn and indolent. They adapt easily when there is an authoritative figure in their lives.

3. Kuvasz

History and origins: Kuvasz is not a well-known dog breed, but it is a very loyal one. In Hungary, they are renowned for being exceptional guard dogs. However, their origins are not well-established. Specialists who have conducted researches about Kuvasz dogs think they were brought from Asia by the nomadic tribes.

During the time when King Mathias I was in charge, he had a loft of Kuvasz dogs. This is how appreciated they were back then. Things have not changed too much since. This dog breed is not as popular as the others, but it is mentioned on every list containing loyal dogs.

Personality traits: The dogs from the Kuvasz breed are intelligent, lively, balanced and sensitive. They only bark when they are forced by circumstances. Strong and brave too, they used to defend flocks from wolves and bears. In general, their most striking feature is loyalty.

They only become violent if a kid is attacked or if something happens to children that they like to be around and play with. A Kuvasz dog might develop a dominant character towards other dogs or other pets if it is kept away from them during its early years of life. Its devotion to family is indisputable and it is reserved towards strangers.

You can learn more about this great breed by reading this article on the Kuvasz.

4. Beagle

History and origins: Dogs of the same size and with the same role as the modern Beagle were found in ancient Greece, during the 5^th century BC. They were brought to Rome and then imported to the British Isles. During the 18^th century, 2 breeds were used for hunting rabbits, namely the Southern Hound and the North Country Beagle. As soon as fox hunting became more popular, the aforementioned breeds had to be replaced with a faster one.

Therefore, in 1830, a priest founded the first group of modern Beagles in Essex, Britain. The Beagle Club was founded 60 years later, when the Royal family was interested in improving this breed.

The middle of the 19^th century marks the time when the first Beagle puppies were sent to the US. In 1884, the American Kennel Club didn’t hesitate to recognize this dog breed. In Old English, the word “beag” meant “small”, so that’s why this small sized dog is called like this.

Personality traits: Beagle dogs have a balanced temperament and disposition. They are rarely aggressive or timid. They become friends with strangers fairly easy and they begin to enjoy their company fast. This is why some Beagle dogs are not so great at keeping a household safe.

However, nothing can beat their loyalty, especially if they are trained properly and their stubbornness and determination are eliminated. They cannot stay focused for too long, but when they receive treats, they seem to get better at it.

The fact that they are really friendly with children makes this dog breed to be so popular. A Beagle can get strongly attached to a person and it can suffer immensely if something happens to that person, it goes away or dies.

5. Yorkshire Terrier

History and origins: In the mid-1800s, numerous workers from Scotland migrated in the north part of England and they brought with them several varieties of terriers to hunt rats. There is few data about the first Yorkshire Terrier. It is said that this breed has appeared thanks to a selective mating with the ones brought from Scotland.

In time, the breeders of Yorkshire Terriers began to participate in different contests with these special dogs. The first star of this breed was a male named Huddersfiel Ben. Most of the current breed standards were established with Ben as an ideal example.

Personality traits: This little quadruped is very smart and snappy. Part of a big family of terriers, a Yorkshire is fearless, fact which makes it prone to becoming aggressive with other dogs regardless of their size. Since its intelligence level is situated above average, it can be easily trained.

However, it does not lack a fair share of stubbornness and disobedience. Very good for guarding their owners, it is alert and always ready to announce the fact that a stranger is approaching.

When it is threated or disturbed, it tends to bite. This habit can be repressed with just a few training sessions. Although they are loyal and affectionate, Yorkshire terriers are not recommended for families with small children.

To see if this breed is right for you, check out info on the Yorkshire Terrier.

6. German Shepherd

History and origins: This is a dog breed among the best known and widespread dog breeds in the world. It is Germany’s national dog breed. It dates thousands of years ago and it has a long line of ancestors, starting with the Persian Shepherd. Based on its vague similarity with a wolf, it is also known as a wolf dog.

This breed was brought to its current shape at the end of the 19^th century. It is the only dog breed that has an organization in Germany, called WUSV with over half a million members from 60 different countries. They try to deal with the health and personality problems that a German Shepherd might develop.

Personality traits: A German Shepherd is an active dog with a lively temperament. It is mentally balanced, intelligent, agile and watchful. Particularly brave, it is firm, strong and resistant. Its sense of smell is really good and it is always ready to fight.

It adapts easily to any unforeseen circumstances thanks to its responsible and independent nature. Faithful, affectionate and playful with its owner and the owner’s family, a German Shepherd loves children and gets along well with them. It treats other animals and people it doesn’t know with indifference for as long as they show no signs of aggression.

7. Saint Bernard

History and origins: Saint Bernard is one of the most popular dog breeds too. Its ancestors are the Tibetan Mastiffs. It was brought to Switzerland by Roman colonists who used it to guard property.

The Saint Bernard known today was obtained by several crosses with dogs from the Alps. In the 18^th century it was trained and taught to rescue people from avalanches. The monks from the Saint Bernard shelter were the ones who trained it, thus its name.

There are records of over 2 thousand people that were rescued by these dogs. For example, there was a dog named Barry, who has saved no less than 40 lives during its 12 years of life. As a sign of respect, a statue of Barry is now on display in the National Museum of Science and History in Bern. It is a dog breed prevalent in both Europe and North America.

Personality traits: A Saint Bernard is an intelligent canine specimen with a strong sense of direction and sense of smell. It is also quiet, calm and playful. It does not bark much. Devoted and affectionate with family, friendly with children and strangers, a Saint Bernard will only bark to announce someone’s arrival, not in an aggressive way.

It has no trouble with other animals from a household or with other dogs for that matter. It is known to be loyal to just one master, but to also help members of the family if and when they are in need.

8. Brittany

History and origins: Once called Brittany Spaniel, Brittany is a dog breed named after a region from France. The history of Brittany is not known entirely. It is believed to date back more than one thousand years.

The first evidence of its existence appeared sometime during the 17^th century, in a painting. The main purpose for creating this canine specimen was most probably hunting.

The French peasants needed a dog that could bring them the hunted birds that fell on the ground. Therefore, it needed to be very agile. In 1934, Brittany was recognized as a breed by the American Kennel Club.

Personality traits: Brittany is a very energetic and athletic dog of medium size that is known for its enthusiasm and joy. It can be considered hyperactive by some people who don’t have a high level of energy. It is a great family friend and loyal too.

Moreover, it can be easily trained because it is very sensitive and if its owner just gives it a stern look, it will most probably obey. Dogs from this breed kept their hunting instincts, so they are great to play with when it comes to bringing something back to their owner such as a toy or a real hunted prey.

9. Golden Retriever

History and origins: Golden Retrievers were bred for the first time in a town called Cannich, located near Lake Affric, in Scotland. For many years there has been a controversy regarding the breeds that were crossed in order to obtain the Golden Retriever as we know it.

Among the top myths about the origin of these amazing dogs is referring to the fact that Golden Retrievers come from a mix of sheepdogs that were introduced in Britain by a Russian circus troupe.

The development of firearms from the 19^th century also required the services of dogs that would bring the gunned prey. After training the representatives of this breed to recover birds, they were also trained to hunt rabbits and foxes too.

The first Golden Retriever puppies resulted from crossing a yellow, long-haired, male retriever with a short-haired Tweed Water Spaniel female. In our days, the Tweed Water Spaniel is extinct, but it was very popular in the mid-1800s.

The modern Golden Retriever has evolved from a crossbreeding program, which also included dogs belonging to breeds such as Irish Setter, Bloodhound and Newfoundland. The British Kennel Club accepted this breed in 1903.

Personality traits: The temperament of a Golden Retriever is exactly what made this dog breed so popular. They don’t get attached to just one person and they get along well with family members and strangers as well.

This feature makes them less recommended for security purposes. Manifestations of violence against people or animals are unacceptable for Golden Retrievers. It is not at all characteristic to them.

They are shy or nervous, but never violent. They constantly seek the contentment of their owners. In addition, they are known for their patience with children. A Golden Retriever can focus well on various tasks, working to exhaustion. So, the owners of these dogs should be careful not to abuse them by giving them too many chores.

10. American Staffordshire Terrier

History and origins: The American Staffordshire Terrier is a dog breed with ancestors in England, but which was developed independently on the American continent for more than 60 years until the American Kennel Club changed its name.

It has the same descendent as the American Pit Bull Terrier. It is the result of crosses between Bulldogs and various Terriers, such as the White English Terrier, the Black and Tan Terrier and the Fox Terrier.

At the end of the 19th century, Staffordshire Bull Terriers were brought to the US by colonists. The American Staffordshire Terrier from our days is heavier and it has a more massive body than the English one.

Personality traits: The American Staffordshire Terrier is energetic, brave, loyal, attentive, noisy, stubborn and dominant. It is very devoted to its owner and the owner’s family. Moreover, it is friendly and gentle with children and can be a good family member. It is aggressive with other dogs of the same sex.

In fact, most dogs from this breed get along just with specimens of the opposite sex. It accepts cats and other animals that usually live in a household, but only if they are introduced to them at a young age. Training an American Staffordshire Terrier is not very complicated.

Conclusion

As seen, these dogs belonging to different breeds went through numerous changes over time. A result of crossbreeding, all these 10 breeds are considered to be the most loyal ones. There are countless reasons that determined them to develop in such a positive way and perceive their owners as the most important persons in their lives.

Some of these pooches really need an owner because otherwise they would become hard to manage and they would have no one to please and no one to care for them deeply. If loyalty is what you are looking for in a dog, you can just take a look at the other characteristics these 10 canine specimens have and choose one accordingly.

Getting an Akita Inu just because you liked the movie is not a good idea unless you think your personality and lifestyle matches the one this dog has.

However, if you have a kid who really wants a specific dog from this list, you should not hesitate to fulfill his or her wish if you can take care of it properly, ensuring enough space, attention and healthy food for it. Dogs have a lot to offer to people, but people should keep in mind that dogs have special needs too that must be fulfilled.

When to Put Your Dog Down: Is It Really the Time?

By

Vinko Woodman

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April 18, 2024

There is absolutely no doubt that our dogs are a part of the family and loved just as much as anyone in our families. We love them, care for them, feed them and take them to the vets when they are sick; we are responsible for them.

Unfortunately, though that responsibility is not all fun and games and there may come a day when you have to make difficult decisions regarding your pet pooch. You may have to decide when to put your dog down.

The decision of when to put a dog to sleep is probably one of the hardest calls a dog owner may ever have to make. It is littered with dilemmas and unanswerable questions and there is never a right or wrong answer.

It boils down to a personal matter for each pet and owner. As an owner we know our dogs best and since our dogs cannot speak up for themselves we have a duty to do what is best for them.

Reasons You May Have to Make This Difficult Decision

These include:

Rabies
Parvovirus
Distemper
Cancer
Accidents
Old Age (related conditions)
Genetic diseases (related conditions)

It should be noted that with rabies there really is no other decision to make. Other than euthanasia as the death of your pet is unavoidable.

Making the Decision With a Plan in Place

When first getting a dog you need to remember that the chances of that dog outliving you are incredibly slim. You need to be ready and aware that one day you may have to make the decision of whether to put your dog to sleep or not. You may find if it comes to that time, that having a plan already in place will help you make that incredibly difficult step.

Putting together that plan is simple; list every scenario you can think of where you may have to make the decision of whether to put your dog to sleep or not. For example:

List five things that your dog loves to do such as fetching, greeting, chasing, performing tricks and running then decide;
- If your dog becomes incapable of doing all of or some of his favorite things will you put him/her to sleep?
- If he still enjoys all his favorite things but only 30-50% of the time will you put him / her to sleep?

If your dog suffers an accident where the long term recovery is less than certain will you put your dog through the possible surgeries, therapy and recovery time that may be needed?

Putting a plan like this into place will help you immeasurably if you ever have to face the question of whether to put your dog down. Whilst your dog is healthy and happy you will think much clearer about the decisions you should make.

Making the Decision With No Plan in Place

If you do not have a plan in place or find yourself backtracking on any plans you made then consider the following.

It is inevitable that the decision of whether to put your dog to sleep or not will be made in conjunction with your vet. Chances are that you have consulted your vet about the ailment which your dog is suffering and that he or she will have given you a prognosis.

Consulting With Your Vet

Talking to your vet about your dog’s medical condition can give you a clearer picture on his / her outlook in the long term. They can also advise you on the levels of pain your dog may be feeling. Your vet however cannot tell you whether it is time to put your dog to sleep or not, they can only advise.

Six Questions to Ask Yourself

Answering the following questions could help you to decide if the time has come to put your dog to sleep:

Is your dog’s appetite suffering?
Has he / she stopped enjoying life?
Has your dog stopped doing some or all of his / her favourite things?
Do the painful days with your dog outnumber the happy days?
Does your dog seem unhappy more often than he / she is happy?
Does your dog look distressed or uncomfortable most of the time?

If you have answered yes to some or all of the above questions it is probably time you start to consider that your dog’s quality of life is not what it should be.

Further Thought

If you know that your dog’s quality of life is not what it should be then you need to think further about what the best next step would be. Think about how your dog might be feeling; is he in pain or unhappy? It may help to know that a dogs organ system works pretty much like ours so it is likely that they feel the same pain as we do when they begin to fail.

Does your dog have a terminal illness? It may be kinder if they do to put them to sleep sooner rather than later. Most people believe it is better to put your dog to sleep a day too early than a day too late.

Will further treatment improve your dog’s quality of life or just help maintain a poor quality of life? Your vet will be able to help answer this question but it needs to be noted that just because you can prolong your dog’s life does not mean you should.

Can you afford treatment? This may seem a mercenary train of thought but it does need to be considered. Medications and treatments for illnesses your dog may suffer can be highly expensive. If you have pet insurance this will certainly help but remember not all insurance covers all types of treatment.

Is your dog so old or ill that he / she has lost most of his / her bodily functions? Just like humans most dogs would be mortified to lose control of their bodily functions. This may not be a painful effect of illness or age for a dog but it is a mental wellbeing one.

Is it in your dog’s best interest to extend his / her life, or are you extending his / her life for yourself? Many people say that you will know when it is time to put your dog to sleep. This however is not at all true, our heads may say it is time when it is but our hearts will not. At this point you really need to examine your own motives. The responsibility for your choice lies with you and you alone.

Put simply will you be able to live with yourself if you make your dog suffer for one minute longer than they need to, just because you were selfish and didn’t want to let them go? This may seem harsh and it is but it is also very true in some cases. We may think we are extending our dogs lives for the right reasons but sometimes we are just kidding ourselves.

It may also be that your dog is giving out mixed signals which confuse you as to what the right decision is. For example your dog may be suffering from severe arthritis but seem happy and hearty even if his / her joints have given out. These are the hardest decisions of all to make, your pet is still bright and alert and their organs are fine. However is the inability to walk a good quality of life? Only you can make that decision.

What to Expect When Putting Your Dog to Sleep

One of the concerns that you may have when making the decision of whether to put your dog to sleep or not is what to expect if you do. Inevitably it will be one of the most upsetting days of your life losing your beloved dog and does not need to be made more distressing by anticipating the worst, or not knowing what is going to happen.

Making an Appointment

Once the decision has been made you will need to make an appointment for your dog to be euthanized. Speak to the receptionist about this and ensure they book you in when the vet has plenty of time so you will not be rushed saying goodbye.

Note that in some cases it may not be possible to come back with your dog but be more humane to put your dog to sleep at the time of a consultation with your vet.

Reasons for this could your dog is in insufferable pain or perhaps they have been in surgery and it would be more humane to let them go whilst under anaesthetic.

Accompanying Your Dog

It is a personal choice whether to be with your dog or not when they are put to sleep. Some owners cannot bear the thought of watching their dog slip away, whilst others cannot bear the thought of letting them go without their presence. It is a decision that you need to think through very carefully as you do not want to regret that decision afterwards.

If you are concerned that your emotional state when attending the appointment may upset your dog you can request sedation which will help them remain calmer. A request for sedation could also be helpful if you have a dog that does not like or becomes distressed at vet appointments under normal circumstances.

If the actual process of putting your dog to sleep is what concerns you about being with your dog or not then rest assured it is not as horrific as you may be thinking or imagining.

Putting Your Dog to Sleep

In order to put your dog to sleep the vet must first gain access to a vein, usually in your dog’s leg. When doing this your vet will usually invite you to hold your dog in order to keep them calm and to keep you close to your dog. The actual injection is painless and usually only takes 6 – 12 seconds to work.

As your dog passes away he / she will take a deeper breath then begin to grow weaker, finally lapsing into what looks like a deep sleep. It may take a few more breaths before your dog passes away and movement ceases.

When Your Dog Has Passed Away

After your dog has passed away the vet and nurses will leave you to have some time with your pet if that is what you desire. Take all the time you need to say your goodbyes and do not be afraid to cry.

You may think people will feel you’re daft or silly to be crying over your dog but believe it or not the vets and staff will also be upset by your dogs passing, and completely understand what you are going through. Just because they work in these situations regularly does not mean they have hearts of stone.

What Happens Next

You will have been asked when you made the appointment what you would like for your dog after euthanasia. Some people choose to take their dogs home and bury them somewhere special or in the garden. If this is what you have chosen your vets will crate your dog and return him/her to you.

If you have chosen cremation your dog will be sent to the place of your choice and his / her ashes returned to you as previously arranged. You can arrange when cremating your dog to have special items with them. This may be a poem, a favorite toy or even a rose.

When making arrangements for your dog after euthanasia remember that he or she is your dog and that whatever you want is the right thing. If you choose to keep some fur or to have the ashes returned to you it is your choice and no one else’s.

Dealing With the Grief

Remembering that your dog is a part of your family, it is perfectly feasible and acceptable that you will grieve for them, just like you would a human member of your family.

It is however likely that few people will understand the grief you are feeling at losing your dog. You may find this time filled with a very lonely and private grief.

The last thing you should be doing at this time is chastising yourself for feeling so strongly about losing your pet. Your grief is valid and you should give yourself all the time you need to grieve. You may even find it helpful to contact a grief support group or counselor to help you deal with the loss.

The truth is sometimes it is clear that you should let your dog go, you just know its time. However sometimes it isn’t clear cut and a lot of soul searching is required as to what is best for your dog. When trying to make the decision it may help to remember the following:

Vets are trained to save lives – they can only delay not prevent the inevitable
Just because you can prolong your dog’s life it doesn’t mean you should
Choosing euthanasia is not playing God, it is doing the humane thing
The suffering of your dog is paramount and should be the first consideration
It is better to put your dog to sleep a day too early than a day to late

When to put your dog down is unquestionably one of the hardest decisions you will ever have to make but you have done the best by him or her all their life, and now is the time to still do the same.

How to Raise a Pitbull: Tips From One Owner to Another

By

Vinko Woodman

-

April 18, 2024

This article will provide advice on how to raise a pitbull right and prove the stereotype wrong. Over the years, the American Pitbull Terrier has gained a bad reputation as a naturally aggressive breed of dog.

This mostly comes from the fact that before the dogs were ever brought to America they were bred to fight bulls and once bull baiting became illegal, they were sent to fight one another. The thing is, these dogs only fought to please their masters, really. They are no more aggressive than any other breed of dog when they receive the proper training.

When you are considering different aspects of training your pitbull you should always keep in mind how to train your pitbull with positive training techniques.

No matter what sort of dog you are raising, if you train them to fear you through punishment they are far more likely to become aggressive than if they are trained in a positive atmosphere.

House Training

There are many different theories on the best way to potty train any dog, but especially your pitbull. They do tend to be more stubborn than some other breeds which can make this process much more difficult. Some people find it perfectly fine to correct the pup, letting him know what he did wrong, by rubbing their face in it, yelling or hitting the pup after it has an accident.

This is only going to create an image of fear attached to you in this dogs eyes! There are much more productive ways to go about potty training.

While accidents will be inevitable, you should always do your best to prepare for them. Excessive sniffing is usually a way to tell if your pup is looking for a place to “go”. If you notice this you should take the pup outside immediately and wait for him to do their business.

If it’s been 5-10 minutes and they haven’t, then bring them back inside for now but keep an eye out for them! The best way to prevent accidents is to be attentive until your pup learns to let you know they need to go out.

Remember, house training should happen young – usually within a week of bringing a puppy home if you got them as soon as they were old enough to be placed with a family. At the same time, you cannot expect this to be an easy adjustment for your pup, it is a completely new idea to them and they need time to learn!

A few tips for potty training your pitbull pup:

Take them out at least once an hour.
Take them out on a leash for the first week or so.
Take them to the same spot (this is more for convenience, it will become habit and you won’t have “piles” around your yard).
Don’t let them play and run around until “business has been taken care of” (this reinforces the reason for going outside in the first place!)

Be consistent – take the pup out regularly, whether or not they actually go, they will eventually get the idea. If you’d like to learn a bit more, check out this article on how to potty train your puppy.

When you are considering trying to cut down on accidents you should also remember to take them out about 20 minutes after they eat (or if you notice them drink a ton of water!).

Yes, it’s a lot of work – but your puppy will learn in time and soon enough you won’t have to worry about accidents and messes. When you know you have to be gone for extended periods, leave your pup in a wire kennel so that they cannot make a mess on your floors! Make sure you take them out first thing in the morning and last thing before bed.

Socialize Your Pup

When it comes to raising your pitbull to be good around people, crowds, other animals, etc. it is important that you socialize your dog properly.

The absolute best thing you can do is start as early as possible when it comes to socialization – this is not to say a fully grown pitbull cannot be trained to change his behaviors, it is just going to take a lot more time, patience and hard work between you and your dog to make it happen. The sooner a dog is socialized the easier they will learn and react to new things.

When you are socializing your dog you should always remain in control of the situation – have your dog on a leash and next to you. This way you can intervene before any bad behavior starts. If you have already taught your dog to respond immediately to his name, even better.

This way if you notice your dog start to growl at a person or animal when they shouldn’t be, you can snap their attention back to you. This is a good time to try and keep treats on you as well, to reward them for giving you their attention so promptly.

Start slow, introduce your pup to a few friends you’re having over or take him to visit a family member. This way your dog can slowly adjust to being around people other than you (and any immediate family living in the house).

You are essentially letting your dog experience the world when socializing and this is how they will see the world from now on – so do your best to make every experience a positive one.

If you have other pets in the home, introduce your new pup to them one by one. Perhaps only allow your dog to be in one room for the first couple of days and have gradual face to face meetings with other animals.

Keep treats nearby for distractions (for both pets!) that way if one starts to show signs of aggression you can distract them temporarily. A few meetings like this and they are usually willing to accept that they are going to be living together and after a while there may great friendship.

Also, be sure to stay on the lookout for signs of dog aggression. If you’re not sure what those are, first check out our handy guide on the signs and methods of dealing with dog aggression.

Another note – in the process of trying to make all early socialization a positive experience, try to avoid dog parks right off the bat. Instead, take your dog to puppy kindergarten! This is not only a great training tool for many, many dog owners, but it also gives your dog a chance to be around other dogs – but not dozens all at once which can be overwhelming.

If you want your dog to be comfortable around more people than just your family then this is also very helpful – as well as taking your dog with you to cafes or similar places where there is outdoor seating and you are allowed to bring your dog. Just remember to keep them leashed and close to you at all times!

Use Positive Methods

I cannot stress enough that you should always consider using positive training methods when training your pitbull. You may have heard before that they are stubborn and you cannot teach them anything without beating it into them. This is 100% wrong. Any breed of dog can be trained through positive training methods. The most important thing you need to remember is that it is going to take lots of time and lots of patience. This is a learning process for your dog – so make it as fun and stimulating as you would want school to be for your children!

It may sound crazy, but honestly, if you give it a shot you will see – consistency is key and your pitbull will learn! It may take longer than you were hoping for, but your dog will be better behaved than you would ever have imagined.

The reason for this? He loves you and only wants to make you happy. This is true with many breeds of dog, which is why it positive training methods work so well across the board!

A great example of positive training is to either use a handful of kibbles (that way you can’t overdo it with the treats!) or go with some sort of other reward like toys or praise (though most find kibbles work best) and ask your dog to sit. If he sits, then reward him with a treat, praise or whatever the reward may be.

Do this 10 times over – the same exact routine. By the time you go for that 11^th shot, he will probably sit even if you don’t give him the treat! Especially if you use praise and a brief moment of affection along with the treat to show him he did good.

This is going to be a process for both you and your pitbull, but don’t give up! In the end, the bond you will share with your dog will be much stronger than that of someone who goes with a different training method.

Your dog will learn to respect you with your consistency against bad behavior – but try putting them in their kennel for a bit or taking away a toy if they were playing too rough inside and broke something. They will usually pick up on the connection rather quickly and you never had to hit your dog once!

Common Training Mistakes

When it comes to training a pitbull you may think you will never get through, but it could simply be that you are taking the wrong approach. A few of the most common mistakes when training a pitbull include:

Not being patient enough.
Not being consistent enough.
Using negative training methods.
The lack of an open mind.

Basically, training your pitbull is going to as difficult as you want it to be. You have to prepare yourself mentally for the fact that it is going to be a lot of hard work. But in the end, you will be much happier and so will your dog!

You will respect each other and have a bond stronger than if you had been handed an already well-mannered dog. When it comes down to it, the more effort, love and time you put into your dog’s training, the better they will be! After all, they just want to make us happy.

Not being consistent is another downfall that many dog owners have. The thing is, your dog loves routine. He knows when you’re going to feed him every day, when you’re going on a walk, when you leave for work and when you should return home.

They also rely on you for consistency not only in routine but in actions – if they were not allowed to dig in the yard one day, but another you just decide not to care, they will never learn not to do it! They learn just like we do, trial and error, cause and effect.

The last big problem when it comes to training your pitbull is the fact that people are very closed minded. If only people would accept that just like we all learn differently, so do dogs!

When one technique might be perfect for one breed, another may be a total different story. If one technique doesn’t work after a couple weeks, then try something new! There is no limit to what you can teach your dog to do when you have an open mind and positive training techniques!

In the end, raising a pitbull is not that much different than raising any other breed of dog. You just need to remember to be consistent and take your time. Your dog will learn – but it’s up to you to give him the chance to learn in a positive environment.

Don’t give up because you hit a few snags in the road! You and your dog will both be better off for it in the long run when you take your time to train and socialize your dog properly.

Take the time to train your pitbull properly and encourage anyone you know to raise them with confidence and positive training techniques and help break the negative labels that are put to these beautiful dogs!

Alaskan Dog Breeds: The Spirit of the North in Your Canine Companion

By

Vinko Woodman

-

April 18, 2024

It is often said that tough environments breed toughness at its purest, and this is as true as it gets for Alaskan dog breeds. It simply does not get any tougher than that!

The freezing wind, long days and long nights, next to no food in sight, temperatures that rarely climb above freezing, rough and inhospitable terrain, an environment where life is the last thing that one would expect to find, much less dogs.

Still, they’ve done it! It took millennia, but the arctic species that inhabit the very edge of the arctic circle have managed to adapt to the harsh environment in such a way that they haven’t just survived, but they have also thrived and honed every single bit of their very existence in order to make the most out of this harsh and unforgiving environment.

They might be tough, they might be strong, they might be able to take on the world, but at the same time they are still as loving and as loyal as you would expect them to be.

It does take a lot to create such breeds, capable of withstanding hazards, temperatures and conditions that would consume the otherwise unprepared individuals, and it is those exact elements that make us grow increasingly fond and mesmerized by these breeds.

Below we’re going to discuss the most common known breeds that come from Alaska.

1. The Alaskan Husky

When we think of harsh and unforgiving environments we often think of a harsh and unforgiving animal, chiseled and adapted to thrive in even the most remote and secluded areas of the world, the wolf.

Arctic wolves are known to be some of the3 strongest, toughest but at the same time smartest and most cunning wolves out there. And truth be told, they need every single bit of their intelligence and cunning in order to survive the harsh environment that they live in.

With many generations of breeding and careful training, the Alaskan Husky came to be. A direct descendant of these wolves, the husky is by far one of the most intelligent dogs out there, being surpassed in intelligence only by the prestigious German Shepherd, but unsurpassed in cunning by no other breed out there.

The Husky was initially bred for light sled transportation, a sled dog through and through. A small pack of huskies is strong enough to pull a fully loaded light sled along with their master. These dogs possess some of the strongest legs and chests out there, being at the same time the best breed among all the Alaskan dog breeds when it comes to size vs. power ratios.

They also come packing a lot of stamina and energy, making them not only suited for long sled journeys but also capable of traversing immense stretches of land without suffering the effects of fatigue.

The Husky also inherited a strong sense of the pack from its wolf ancestors, making it fiercely proficient when it comes to working in packs. Often times, packs turn into veritable brotherhoods where differences are settled in short yet efficient ways. The dogs are literally having each other’s back for as long as they live.

There are a couple of downsides to owning a Husky, particularly the fact that they are not at all suited for apartment life and that they need a lot of daily exercise and a lot of room to run around. If a Husky is not properly exercised he or she will turn destructive, often burning his or her energy on the furniture, carpets and personal belongings of the master.

Another thing to note here is the fact that huskies are incredibly smart and cunning, being able to learn a lot of things involuntarily, and often times using this information for their direct benefit. This makes huskies some of the hardest dogs to work with when it comes to training, especially if the dog is kept in a small apartment and not exercised regularly. Some trainers often refuse to work with them because of their stubbornness.

It is a bit of a hassle to keep and train and make no mistake about it, it will require you to dedicate a lot of free time in order to keep your dog happy, exercised, trained and well fed, but if done right, you will gain a fiercely loyal and dedicated lifetime companion.

2. The Alaskan Malamute

This breed is pretty much the bigger, stronger and tougher version of a Husky. Although they are completely different breeds, due to the fact that they share an ancestor and several common genes, people often tend to mistake malamutes for overgrown Huskies.

The first thing that will strike you when you see an adult Malamute for the first time is the sheer size of the beast; often an entire head taller than an average human when standing on its hind legs, as well as heavier.

The first thing that you must understand about Malamutes is the fact that it is a working breed through and through, and the sheer size of these magnificent creatures is the result of careful breeding over the ages in order to obtain the canine equivalent of a heavy hauling truck. These dogs were designed to pull, and they can pull a lot.

With the proper training and conditioning, a malamute can pull anywhere between 500 and 1500 Kg (a ton and a half basically). To pull that much weight, the malamutes have developed very strong back and incredibly powerful hind legs, almost to the point of managing to deliver as much power as a small car.

Out of all the Alaskan dog breeds, the Alaskan Malamute is pretty much the king of the ice and snow roads. Not quite the dog for sled racing or light hauling like its cousin, the Husky, but rather a long distance slow heavy hauler, capable of traversing long distances in a harsh environment while at the same time pulling a ton of freight behind it.

These dogs require a lot of upkeep, and a lot of care and attention. First of all, they eat a lot and they build up a lot of energy, however instead of becoming destructive like the husky, the malamute becomes aggressive. It is still closely related to the arctic wolves, and as a result of that, they still possess some fiercely predatory instincts, often times instinctively chasing small critters around and hunting them for the sheer enjoyment of it.

The malamute loves working and being around humans, however it has a small problem with younger kids, often times lacking the patience required to deal with them properly. This is why you should be quite mindful of the dog if you happen to have a rambunctious child running around the house.

They are rather quiet and gentle giants, being able to maneuver around furniture and small objects quite well. And even though they make great family dogs because of their fondness for human interaction, they make for some very bad watch dogs.

They are easier to work with than Huskies, and a lot easier to train, although they can be quite stubborn themselves on some occasions. This is because of the fact that they are not exactly as clever and as cunning as a Husky, however they are as loyal and as dependable as you can hope them to be.

If you plan on getting a Malamute as a house pet, first and foremost make sure that you can afford it. Both the puppies and the food that they consume will cost you a pretty penny, and in order to keep a happy and fulfilled dog around the house you will have to dedicate a lot of time to exercising and taking care of the dog’s needs, particularly keeping cool in the summer.

That’s right, a malamute is still an arctic dog, and as such, the coat that it sports is thick and fluffy, making it a shedding machine, especially in warmer climates. It has often been reported that malamute owners have filled their swimming pools with cold water during the summer in order to allow the dog to cool off during hot days. Their coat needs to be groomed and trimmed quite often to keep the shedding to a minimum and give the dog the needed thermal comfort.

This dog loves snow and you will find that the malamute will be quick to play and frolic in the snow as soon as it gets the chance.

One last thing to not about the malamutes is the fact that they tend to become more or less big babies, often acting as children in order to get some affection or even a reaction out of you. This is fine to a certain extent though, and with the proper time and training, you can keep your malamute under control.

3. The Canadian Eskimo Dog

Although it might not look like it, this smiling and often playful looking dog hides a rather difficult and hard to grasp truth: it’s one of the most volcanic and driven breed you can get from the Arctic Circle. This is not particularly a bad thing, and it’s not a dangerous dog, but rather a stronger and more independent dog than what the vast majority of people are used to.

In all fairness, this is the purest working dog breed that can be found in North America, initially being raised by the Inuit people throughout the Canadian frozen wastes in order to help them with surviving, hunting, guarding and even transportation in the form of sleds.

When it comes to toughness, these dogs take the cake, being more or less conditioned and genetically programmed throughout the ages to hunt and forage for their own food, in the middle of the frozen wastes of Northern Canada.

That being said, these dogs grew up to be among the most independent dogs out there, often times being able to take care of themselves. At the same time they developed a very strong prey drive, making them chase after smaller creatures, and even smaller dogs. They are not dangerous though, and if in a civilized environment, they will chase only for the thrill and fun of it, often resorting to playful behavior if they manage to catch their target.

Another interesting thing about this particular breed is the fact that they are among the very few northern breeds that make for very good watch dogs. This is because they are very territorial and they grow incredibly fond and attached to their owners. They may even end up protecting the household with their lives if need be.

There is something that you should know beforehand if you plan on getting a Canadian Eskimo Dog as a house pet: you will need to train them yourself. First of all, these dogs need training, in order to cope with the new environment without the risk of aggression of fright.

However, there are only a few trainers that can actually train this dog. Actually, the only person that can succeed in training this gorgeous canine is the person that it grows up around, the master that takes care of him or her from its puppy years. It is pretty much the only person that this dog will fully listen to and fully obey.

Some trainers manage to train this dog to do a couple of tricks at most, but complete success will only be attained by the dog’s master and owner.

A rather difficult aspect of this dog’s training is the socialization aspect. It’s rather difficult to properly socialize this dog, because even though it is capable of functioning in a pack, and often time had to throughout the ages, when presented with dogs that are smaller than him or her the prey drive kicks in and they end up chasing them around. At the same time, when presented with bigger and tougher dogs, they tend to become incredibly defensive to the point of aggression if need be.

This dog tends to be a bit shy around new people, often times paying close attention to its owner in order to figure out whether or not the new people around are desirables or undesirables.

One last thing to note about this dog is the fact that it is also among the smartest dogs out there. It’s just as smart as a Husky, but not as cunning, often times choosing to use its intelligence in order to benefit the master and the household rather than for personal gain.

While it is indeed smart, it is still relatively shy around new people, and rather careful as a result of that, so give it a bit of time and let the dog properly adapt and build up the courage to approach new people.

Stressing the dog out and forcing him or her to make the first approach can result in some rather undesired side effects that might affect the dog long term, so exercise patience and let the dog move at his or her own pace when it comes to this aspect.

As a final conclusion in regards to Alaskan dog breeds, we can clearly say that these dogs were not bred to be pets or to doddle around the house. They were bred and raised in a rough and unforgiving environment and whether they liked it or not, they had to pull their own weight in order to survive.

This, in turn, allowed them to evolve over generations, growing stronger, smarter, more cunning and more flexible. At the same time, it made them become more loyal and more attached to their masters.

Some dogs excel at getting the most out of their strength, some dogs excel at speed and cunning, while others are more or less the embodiment of loyalty and fondness, but what they all have in common is their ancestry. The fierce, yet majestic arctic wolves, and the traits that these wolves possessed will live on through these breeds.

White Dog Breeds from Alaska

While the world has evolved beyond the point of dependency on these dogs for hauling supplies, freight or even survival in the frozen wastes, we cannot but admire their beauty and adopt them as pets. Still, some still preserve the traditions and the ways of life that gave these dogs their glory days.

Even today we can see these dogs in action one way or another, thus being reminded of exactly what attracted us towards these breeds and more importantly what attracted these breeds to us.

The Alaskan dog breeds are only but a few of the beautiful and magnificent dog breeds out there however they are by far the most beautiful, the most resilient, the strongest and the dogs that can truly take on the world and make the most out of any environment.

These dogs do come with their own set of challenges though, and if you indeed plan on taking one of these dogs as a pet, make sure to be prepared and ready for anything, just like they were when we turned to them for help in the frozen tundra.

30 Best Companion Dogs: Best Breeds Suited for Families and Elderly People

By

Vinko Woodman

-

April 17, 2024

The best companion dogs are really hard to choose because every individual or family is in need of a different type of dog. An active person will not think that an inactive dog is best for him or her lifestyle, just like a family with a lot of children will not be beneficial for a really small and less energetic dog.

As it follows you will learn about 20 dog breeds that are suited for any type of family and about 10 dog breeds that can bring joy in the life of elderly people. Some dog breeds make it on both lists, fact which makes them versatile.

20 Family-Suited Dog Breeds

Whether you feel it’s time to bring a new member in your family or you eventually give in to your children’s desires, you must choose wisely. Since there are so many dog breeds available, you might find it difficult to decide which breed to pick. Your children might have preferences, but you should take a few aspects in consideration. First of all, children are often unaware of their strength and they might play too rough with a small sized dog without even realizing it.

As a parent, it would be your responsibility to supervise your children while they play with their new pet and make sure no one gets hurt. Petting can become uncomfortable for a dog that is not tolerant enough and a kid who just now learns how to be gentle. For all these reasons, any family dog should be resistant enough to a child’s way of playing.

Second of all, a family dog should be patient because a little girl might want to play dress up with it or invite it to her tea party. In addition, it should also be energetic enough to withstand hours of play without causing any damage.

Regardless of the fact that numerous dog breeds are great with kids, it’s important to supervise them when they play. This is because each dog has its own unique personality traits that cannot be foreseen. As it follows, you will learn more about the recommended dog breeds for keeping company to families.

Golden Retriever. A Golden Retriever is an excellent choice for a family that enjoys a multitude of activities outdoors. Although they were originally bred to help during bird hunting sessions, they proved to be loyal and devoted family members as well. They like to play catch thanks to their original purpose.
Pembroke Welsh Corgi. Weighting around 24 pounds, a dog belonging to the Pembroke Welsh Corgi breed is a popular pet and an amazing companion. It is characterized by a stuffed body and a short tail. It likes to exercise a lot while romping with children. However, because it might be a little authoritarian and possessive, children who play with it should be older than 7 years.
West Highland White Terrier. This small sized white terrier is playful and loving, but it needs exercise in order to be happy. In addition, it is also a guard dog and a faithful friend. Its fur needs special care. Children over 10 years old get along great with such a canine specimen.
Irish Setter. This marvelous reddish dog was originally bred for helping people who hunted. Right from its conception, this dog breed showed an undoubtedly natural aptitude for company. Loved by many and always eager to bring joy, an Irish Setter is among the first choices for family dogs.
Schnauzer. A Schnauzer makes a wonderful companion animal for any family. It is eager to please and keep the entire family safe. It is an active dog that needs daily exercise. It thrives for human attention and it comes in 3 different sizes, so it offers flexibility of choice.
Labrador Retriever. Such canine specimen is a popular choice for active families, especially for those who enjoy water sports. A Labrador Retriever seems to have unlimited energy to keep up with kids and it has natural protective instincts towards them. Although it was meant to help in the process of hunting birds, it is now loyal and devoted to ensuring company for humans.
Poodle. The Poodle is an intelligent and friendly dog that craves human companionship. It feels happy when it is allowed to run and play. Although it is known as short, it does come in different colors and sizes, so this breed also offers flexibility when it comes to choosing one. Interested? Check out this great article we have on the Poodle.
Bichon Frise. This white ball of fur is a happy dog. Faithful and obedient, a Bichon Frise is a wonderful addition to any family. It loves to get involved in any activity even if that means it will get its fur dirty. Keeping its fur snow white might be challenging.
Airedale. A sturdy dog, the Airedale takes its job as a friend and protector of the family very seriously. It is the type of canine specimen that wants to join in the fun anytime, anywhere. However, it is always observant in case a potential danger approaches its owners. It is the largest terrier.
Basset Hound. A Basset Hound has its eyes sad-looking and droopy. One might think it is a lazy dog. However, once kids are around it, this dog will jump right in and keep up with any type activity and energy level. Kids love to play with such a dog type.
Beagle. The Beagle can be a very active dog breed. Therefore, it is best suited for active families. It needs a good place to sleep after playing all day, but otherwise it is not a pretentious dog. It likes to play different games and participate in all kinds of activities.
Shih Tzu. Originally raised as a pet for royal families, the Shih Tzu is still enjoying a life of luxury. It is not too fond of playing in the mud and getting dirty with children, but it doesn’t love anything more than sharing its time with people, even if that means it has to step out of its comfort zone.
Boxer. This dog breed may seem a little intimidating, but they are, in fact, really sweet and friendly dogs. A natural guardian, the Boxer likes to spend more time with people than with other canines. Although this dog breed might be more appropriate in quiet homes, it can manage very active and busy families as well.
Cairn Terrier. Despite its small size, a Cairn Terrier is a tough dog. This breed can live in any environment, as long as there are people around. Like all terriers, this one also needs exercise. A walk through the park fits it well. The same goes with a good run through the neighborhood with kids. This may just be the breed for you, and you can find out more about the Cairn Terrier.
Collie. Always associated with the famous Lassie dog, a Collie is considered by many specialists and amateurs to be one of the best family pets. Smart and patient, the Collie is loved by families around the world and makes an excellent companion thanks to its presence of mind and other qualities.
Boston Terrier. The Boston Terrier is a small dog, black and white, that likes to make people laugh. After short periods of activity, this canine specimen loves to curl up on the couch while its owner is reading a book or watching TV. Obedient and loyal, it is a good guard dog and a loyal family pet. It is especially recommended for families that are not very active.
Newfoundland. This gentle giant may salivate a bit too much for some people to like it, but it makes a lovely protection teddy bear for children. Its impressive size might determine some families with small children to wait a little longer before getting one.
Pomeranian. This dog breed also looks like a ball of fur and it is often compared to a miniature fox. The Pomeranian is adorable and it thrives in human companionship. It requires a really small space to rest and it can play with large children despite its small size.
Pug. A Pug is not pugnacious or quarrelsome. It is an affectionate, loving, tempered dog breed with great charm and dignity. Pugs love to be part of a family. They are playful companions for kids and they would also happily take a nap in their owners’ laps.
Greyhounds. Greyhounds are quiet dogs with high levels of loyalty. They act too nice with strangers and even nicer with children. They should not be let unsupervised in wide spaces because they tend to wander too far away from their owners without even realizing it.

10 Elderly-Suited Dog Breeds

Dogs have the amazing ability of enriching any person’s life. In general, the elderly suffer from a lack of social interaction and affection from their family members. Therefore, bringing a dog in their lives often makes them more joyful. This is why an elderly person should be encouraged to get a dog.

However, older people have a number of features that do not allow them to own just any dog. Factors such as physical recourse, possible health problems and financial issues condition their choice of dog breeds. An older person usually wants a dog that can be affectionate, devoted and also protective.

In this regard, small sized dogs are the most suitable ones because most of them like to be held in their owner’s arms and spoiled, which is exactly what an elderly person wants to do. Another advantage of small sized dogs is that they can be easily lifted and taken to the veterinarian in a small cage especially made for dogs. Furthermore, they can be bathed in a sink, fact which doesn’t require too much effort from their owners. People with back problems will find washing small sized dogs a lot easier than washing medium or large sized dogs.

Older people get tired more quickly and don’t have enough energy to take long walks with their dogs, so they need a dog that does not require too much exercise. Therefore, dogs that are happy with short walks several times a day are the most suitable.

In addition, the canine pet’s age and sex are also a criterion to be taken into account. Puppies are more restless and active, so they require more attention and alertness from their owners. This doesn’t always make them the best option. An adult dog that is already educated and balanced might be the best option. On the same train of thoughts, females are more docile and affectionate than males. They are more relaxed when they go out for a walk because, unlike males, they are not tempted to sniff everything around them.

Although all the factors mentioned above have a great importance, a dog’s character should be the decisional one. It is well-known that between a dog owner and a dog there must be some sort of extrasensory connection. Each individual prefers a certain type of canine personality, so the older person in question should be able to say exactly what he or she wants from a canine companion.

In general, affectionate, silent, patient, calm, loving and docile dogs that have few health problems are the most suited ones. As it follows, you will learn more about 10 companion dogs for elderly.

Pug. Pugs are funny dogs that like to play and that crave for their owner’s attention. Innate clowns, they are always present in the family life. They love to be spoiled and be kept in their owners’ laps. Pugs are the types of dogs that have a lot of love and affection to offer.
Chihuahua. The smallest dog breed, Chihuahua, certainly doesn’t require physical strength from its owner when it must be lifted. It is the type of dog that only gets attached to a single person. Therefore, it is ideal for lonely people. Such dog is vigilant and has a shrill barking style that announces the fact that someone approaches. It loves to be petted.
English Cocker. This type of dog is docile and calm too. It is often the number one choice of older people. English Cockers don’t require much exercise. A brisk walk twice a day would suffice for them. They are known to be very loyal companions.
Dwarf Schnauzer. The Dwarf Schnauzer adores human presence and it is capable of creating meaningful bonds with them. They are protective and will always thank their owners for taking good care of them. These dog types are obedient, easy to handle and easy to please with short walks.
Yorkshire Terrier. The Yorkshire Terrier is a small dog that prefers to lay for a really long time. However, they can also be energetic if there is something that stimulates their attention. They behave according to their owners’ character and life style.
Poodle. A Poodle is a very intelligent and balanced dog that prefers more human interaction compared to other dogs. It likes to thank its owner for everything and it doesn’t tend to ignore its owner even when it’s tired.
Bichon Maltese. This is a small type of dog with a high level of affection that gets very attached to its owner. A Bichon Maltese is easy to train and it can adapt to any living environment.
Shih Tzu. This canine specimen is alert and curious. It basically worships its owner. Because it is short-haired, any older person can easily take care of its hygiene without too much hassle.
Pomeranian. The Pomeranian dog looks like a bear that has a fluffy fur. It is docile, agile and present. It makes a good companion for any elderly person.
Pembroke Welsh Corgi. This particular dog type is a very intelligent one that does not require much space. It is a cumbersome and slow dog, but it can become very energetic if needed.

If you already have a dog, you might wonder how to make your dog a companion dog and, moreover, how to make it a companion dog suited for elderly people? The answer is fairly simple. Any type of dog can be trained to become an excellent companion dog. After several dressage sessions, a dog learns how to obey and how to respond to different commands. A trained dog is a happier dog. This is because during training a deeper bond is created between a dog and an owner. Thus, communication becomes clearer and much more effective.

As discussed, there is no such thing as an ideal companion dog that is suited for everyone. Since there are so many different dog breeds, you have the liberty to choose one for yourself or for your family that can be a perfect match. Compatibility is not something easy to find between humans, not to mention between humans and dogs, but, at the same time, it is not something impossible to achieve.

Therefore, pay attention to each dog breed’s characteristics and take a decision that satisfies all your requirements. The same conclusions apply in case of older people who need a companion pet.

Squirrel Hunting Dogs: 10 Most Popular Breeds

By

Vinko Woodman

-

April 17, 2024

Squirrel hunting dogs are those breeds that are excellent at hunting smaller animals (specifically squirrels) and they also have the instinct for that.

Almost any dog can become a squirrel hunter, however, they can never be as good as the breeds that have the drive for it in their nature, e.g. the feists and curs.

In this article, we are going to cover 10 most popular and unique squirrel hunting dog breeds, their characteristics and what makes them so great at what they do.

However, please note that they are not only working dogs – they can be great pets as well, because they deserve and give love as much as any other dog breed.

1. Airedale Terrier

The Airedale Terrier, also called Bingley Terrier and Waterside Terrier is a terrier dog breed that originates from England and can be used as both a working and hunting dog.

He is one of the largest of the terrier breeds so it is no wonder that he is also called the King of Terriers. This breed exhibits herding characteristics very often and it is not unusual for them to chase small animals, which should be taken into consideration.

The Airedale is very intelligent and independent which makes him an excellent hunter. They should be trained very well in order to work with cattle and livestock and if they are raised as pets, they should be introduced to other smaller animals as a puppy, in order to go well with them and not annoy them.

All of this means that the Airedale is a great squirrel hunter and his breed has been used for a long time for this purpose. They know how to track the squirrel and bark until the hunters come and get there. That place is usually a tree so they also belong to the group of tree dogs. Their instinct is the main reason that makes them great hunters.

2. American Blue Gascon Hound

The American Blue Gascon Hound also known as BignBlu and Gascon Blue is a dog breed that is very loyal and devoted to their family. Besides that, he does not mind living outdoors or indoors and he can be a great guardian.

The American Blue Gascon Hound is known as a great and passionate hunter who does well as a pack leader.

However, you should never trust him with smaller animals, especially if he was not socialized at an early age. He is known as a great dog that can work in bad weather and over difficult terrain.

This means that The American Blue Gascon Hound that he is not only a great raccoon hunter but also a great squirrel hunter.

The American Blue Gascon Hound has a strong instinct to tree non-canine pets, which means that he hunts down the animal and pins it in the tree by the method of barking.

This breed has a loud bay cry which is a very recognizable trait in the breed, and he can also be used for tracking cougars and foxes by using his amazing scent.

3. Black and Tan Coonhound

The Black and Tan Coonhound is a dog breed that was derived from a bloodhound and a foxhound. He is recognizable by long ears and tail and the black and tan color of the coat.

Besides being a working dog he is also a famous trail and tree hound, capable of hunting raccoons and squirrels. He hunts entirely by scent, like most of the dogs, and he is also able to find deer, bears, mountain lions and other ‘big game’ animals. He is powerful and stubborn and he almost never gives up.

The Black and Tan Coonhound also makes a great pet, even though he prefers being outdoors. He is very loyal to family members and can be very mellow and calm indoors. He is very reserved with strangers and can bark and howl at them.

He is known for wandering away when having caught a specific scent, so be careful when you choose an area for his walks and exercise. When they catch a squirrel, they tree it and bark until the master comes to get it. They also make sure that the small animal in question does not run away or they continue following it.

4. Mountain Cur

The Mountain Cur is a working dog breed that has been bred specifically for hunting and treeing small animals like squirrels and raccoons. They can also be used for baying bigger animals such as wild boars and deer, and it is not unusual to see them being used as water dogs as well. That means that they can adapt to almost any environment.

This breed was originally brought from Europe to America and they were used as guardians for farming houses. Since the 1940s this breed has become rare because many families abandoned the rural type of life.

When it comes to their appearance, they are short coated with hung ears and come in various colors: yellow, brown, blue or multi colored.

The Mountain Cur is a very intelligent dog that is never vicious or shy. He always strives to please his master but he can easily get bored if left without any job for too long.

That means that you must exercise your Mountain Cur regularly and with passion. Their lifespan is up to 16 years and they have been known as very brave dogs that used to die for their masters while protecting them from attackers.

5. Rat Terrier

The Rat Terrier is an American dog breed that is used as a rat or squirrel hunter. He is a known farm and hunting dog that makes for a great companion. The Rat Terrier is considered a rare breed because there are no family farms as they used to be.

He is an intelligent and cherished dog because he is not only destroying pests but also makes a great family pet.

When it comes to his appearance, he comes in a variety of colors and sizes. However, he is usually a small sized breed with pointed ears and protruded muzzle. His coat hair is short.

The Rat Terrier can be very stubborn if not trained properly and they are known for getting what they want, one way or the other. They are very active, full of energy and cute. They need much exercise because of their playful nature.

They should not be mistaken for Jack Russell Terriers because they have different temperaments. Another interesting fact is that the earliest known Rat Terrier is a dog that belonged to Henry VIII in the 16^th century – named “Hatch”. He and similar dog types were often brought on board to get rid of rats.

6. Treeing Cur

The Treeing Cur is a dog breed that originated in the mid-west America. They are the dogs of medium size that are unique because they are no restrictions when it comes to their colors or markings.

This allows breeders to raise them freely without feeling restricted by the color standards like other hounds.

The Treeing Cur is a fast and intelligent dog that is known for his agility in hunting. They are athletic and able to perform multiple tasks: hunting, guarding and controlling livestock.

As his name suggests, he is a great treeing dog so you can assume that he is also a great squirrel hunter. It is his natural instinct to scent a small animal and corner it on a tree.

He demands regular walks, in nature preferably, and he should also be trained regularly because he can be very dominant, even more than his master.

7. Fox Terrier

Fox Terriers represent two different dog breeds: the Smooth Fox Terrier and the Wire Fox Terrier. Both of them originated in the 19^th century and share similar traits.

There are also other types of this main dog breed group that diverged from them, such as: the Jack Russell Terrier, Miniature Fox Terrier and Rat Terrier. The only different between the Smooth Fox Terrier and the Wire Fox Terrier is the one being in their coat and marking / colors.

The Smooth Fox Terrier has a short coat which is predominantly white and it has been identified as a vulnerable native breed in the UK.

The Wire Fox Terrier has a crisp and hard double coat and recognizable whiskers. The coat is so dense that his skin cannot be seen at all. As the name suggests they are excellent fox hunters but they also can catch squirrels.

They are alert, quick, intelligent, fast and playful. They can also chase cars and bicycles so they should be trained from an early age. If you want to keep this breed as a family pet, you should train and exercise them regularly in order to subdue the instinct for hunting.

8. Norwegian Elkhound

The Norwegian Elkhound, also known as Norsk Elghund Grå and Norsk Elghund Sort, is the ancient Northern Spitz-type breed of dog and is he is also the National Dog of Norway.

He has served as a famous hunter, guardian, herder, and defender. The Norwegian Elkhound’s specialty is to hunt down the moose and hold it at bay.

He distracts it by barking and signals his master to come and get it. This breed is extremely hardy (accustomed to harsh environment) and of medium size.

Another interesting fact is that this breed is rarely seen or bred outside of Norway and they have a lifespan up to 16 years. The related breeds are: Finnish Lapphund, Swedish Lapphund, Lapponian Herder, and Jamthund.

Even though it is rarely seen in other parts of Europe and the USA, the dog is a great squirrel hunter even though he is primarily bred for tracking larger prey. They are known for being able to track wolves and bears as well.

9. West Siberian Laika

The West Siberian Laika, also known as WSL and Zapadno-Sibirskaia Laika, is a hunting dog breed originated from Russia. The Mansi Laika and Khanty Laika are two most known types of this breed.

Almost any Laika is a bark pointer, which means that after tracking the animal down, the dog barks at the animal and stays near it until the hunters arrive.

Having in mind that this breed has the wolf traits in their nature, it is not unusual that they are great hunters because of that. They have pointed muzzle tail, and ears, a square body and gray coat with red tones.

Their size is small to medium and they even resemble gray wolves a bit. The West Siberian Laika is very devoted to his family and master and protective of property. It is also not unusual for them to be aggressive towards strangers.

They also only hunt in a group of familiar dogs which means that they are not only suspicious of unfamiliar humans, they also do not like to work with unfamiliar dogs, even if they are of the same breed; they are after all pack breeds.

The dog has inhabited the northern parts of Russia for centuries so he is accustomed to harsh environments and bad weather.

10. Finnish Spitz

The last dog breed in this article is the Finnish Spitz, also known as Suomenpystykorva, Finsk Spets, and Loulou Finnoi, is a dog breed originating from Finland. This dog was bred to hunt all kinds of animals, especially rodents and squirrels.

He is another bark pointer, which means that he catches / hunts down the prey and then barks at it, which is a signal to his master to hurry up and come. He also was used for hunting bigger animals such as bears and deer.

When it comes to his appearance, the Finnish Spitz resembles a fox – he has a reddish soft coat which consists of a dense undercoat and long guard hairs.

The double coat enables the dog to survive in the harsh environment and that means that grooming your dog’s coat is an essential part of the care. When it comes to his temperament, he is very active and lively. He needs regular exercises, at least twice per day.

This breed does not adapt well to kenneled lifestyle and they suffer if forced to live indoors. Just like the previous hunting breed, their nature and instinct make them explore the nature and move a lot.

And when it comes to training, they are very independent, strong-willed and intelligent. You should train them with gentle touch and voice, just like any other animal.

Other Squirrel Hunting Dogs Worth Mentioning

American Squirrel Dog
Barger Stock Feist
Black Mouth Cur
Black Norwegian Elkhound
Bluetick Coonhound
Cajun Cur
Cajun Squirrel Dog
Camus Cur
Canadian Cur
Catahoula Cur
Denmark Feist
English Coonhound
German Jagdterrier
Henderson Cur
Jack Russell Terrier
Jamthund
Kemmer Cur
Kemmer Feist
Kemmer Stock Hybrid Squirrel Dogs
Leopard Cur
Mountain View Cur
Mullins’ Feist
Original Mountain Cur
Parnell’s Carolina Cur
Redbone Coonhound
Southern Blackmouth Cur
Stephens’ Stock Mountain Cur
Thornburg Feist
Treeing Farm Shepherd
Treeing Feist
Treeing Tennessee Brindle
Treeing Walker Coonhound

The Conclusion

Even though the primary topic of this article is dogs which are best used as squirrel hunters, this does not mean that this is their only activity. Most of them are amazing guardians and livestock controllers as well.

They can also hunt bigger animals such as deer, bears, wolves, foxes and cougars. Additionally, most of them are bark pointers – which means that they use the method of barking in order to point at the hunted prey, and make them afraid so they do not move until the hunters arrive.

When it comes to squirrels, they are also “treeing dogs” which means that they bark under the tree and point at the squirrels up there.

Another important thing that should be remembered is that these breeds are primarily outdoor dogs; they do not respond well to being forced to live in kennels or small apartments.

They do make wonderful family pets and companions since they are loyal, fearless and protective; but they should be groomed and exercised regularly, preferably in the nature, not in the city.

These breeds deserve as much love as other indoor dogs and they should be trained with positive reinforcement, gentle hand and voice.

Another characteristic is that they can be very stubborn and instinct driven; so they can wander off, chase moving objects and smaller non-canine animals.

All of this should be taken into consideration when the dog is still a puppy. It is not unusual for them to not adjust well to new masters and families if they are already adults.

That just proves how loyal and loving they can be when raised from an early age. Show them patience and love and they will respond with even more love and loyalty.

Bully Dog Breeds: Loving Dogs with Unfair Reputations

By

Vinko Woodman

-

April 17, 2024

There are many dog breeds that are popular among dog owners, but they are still considered to be ‘bullies’. Many of these dog breeds are, unfortunately, the victims of inaccurate stereotypes, because it is the fact that each dog is different even though each breed has more or less tendencies towards violence.

Some people say that there isn’t a bad dog but a bad owner. This article will present some of the most (in)famous ‘bullies’, or dog breeds that are considered to be dangerous due to their appearance or reputation.

The title ‘bully’ usually invokes the sense of fear and intimidation, however, this term has a lot to do with the breeds’ origin and history. These bully breeds come from the breed called Molosser, which is a group of big muscular dogs with large bones, originating in ancient Greece.

The bully breeds that we think we know today are the result of the Molossers mixing with other breeds. Even though the original purpose of these dogs was to protect livestock and property, some people began to use them in blood sports, dog fights and bull baiting, and hence the term ‘bully’.

1. Boxer

The boxer is a dog breed of medium size that was developed in Germany in the 19^th century. Boxers are known for having broad and short skulls, square muzzles, strong jaws and even more powerful bites and smooth short coat. They are part of the Molosser group and they were bred from the Old English Bulldog and the now already extinct Bullenbeisser. According to the American Kennel Club statistics, the Boxer is one of the top 10 most popular dog breeds in the USA.

Their most distinctive feature is definitely the head which is protruded, broad and strong. Their black and powerful muzzles make them recognized anywhere.

Their tails and ears are usually docked and cropped, however, due to the pressure of the animal rights groups; this practice has decreased in some countries. When it comes to their temperament, they are known for being distrustful to strangers and suspicious of anyone whom they do not know.

They are also loyal, cheerful and also very protective which makes them a great candidate for a family dog. They tend to be patient with children, however, they are known for being stubborn and headstrong – therefore a dog owner should start training from an early age. Boxers and instinctive guardians but they are not vicious. Their origin and appearance has earned them the status of being a bully.

2. American Staffordshire Terrier

The American Staffordshire Terrier or Amstaff is a dog of medium size and short coat. He was accepted by the AKC in the 40s and his origin is American. However, despite his name, the dog was first bred in the 19^th century in Birmingham, rather than in the English county of Staffordshire. In 2013, The American Staffordshire Terrier was ranked as the 76^th most popular dog breed in the USA.

They are easily recognizable because of their medium size and stocky build which makes them look fearless. Their jaws and heads are strong and their legs are of medium length. It is their appearance that earned them the status of a bully.

When it comes to his personality and temperament, just like the Boxer, he is very loyal and protective of his family. The Amstaffs love to have tasks and jobs to do; otherwise they can become easily bored and self-destructive.

They also love to be part of the family and you won’t get a better guardian and protector. They can be friendly, but they are always loyal to their one and true family and the early socialization is a must if you don’t want your Amstaff to become suspicious and distrustful.

3. Bull Terrier

The Bull Terrier is a dog of medium size that belongs to the terrier family. He is easily recognizable because of his ‘egg-shaped’ head and the front of the skull which is almost completely flat. The eyes are deep-set, black and very small. The interesting fact is that bull terriers are the only dogs that have triangular eyes. The bodies are strong, stocky and full and they are usually only white. People also call them the ‘Gladiators of the canine race’.

They are stubborn and independent, and they are not really suitable for an inexperienced owner. However, they are also very protective and loyal and they have a playful nature. They go along with children, but they should be properly trained because they can become rowdy and accidentally knock over a child. This breed is also very popular in Hollywood, having in mind that it starred in many movies such as ‘Toy Story’ and ‘Babe: Pig in the City.’

However, their egg shaped head with strong jaws is another reason why this breed is considered to be a bully. The physical appearance makes them look aggressive and violent; when they are the opposite if they are loved and cared for. The Bull Terrier is actually a very loyal and family oriented dog breed.

4. Pit Bull Terrier

The American Pit Bull Terrier is probably one of the most infamous dog breeds in the world, unfortunately. It is easily distinguished by its stocky and muscular built, medium size, short coat, small eyes and powerful jaw. This dog comes from the same lineage as the Staffordshire Bull Terrier, except that he is bigger and heavier than the latter.

His first purpose was to bait bulls and bears and later rats and dogs and since this baiting was taking place in pits, hence the name ‘Pit’. Pit Bulls are able to perform a variety of tasks as companion dogs, police dogs and even therapy dogs. They are also used in many dog sports such as weight pulling, flyball, coursing, dog agility and obedience competition. However, there are the owners who use them as attack and guard dogs, which is why they got the title of bully dogs.

When it comes to temperament, it is said that their essential characteristics are strength, confidence and zest for life. Pit Bulls require owners who would love them and give them tasks and not put them in pits for illegal dog fighting. Showing at least some level of aggression is due to their prominent physique and origin, but that does not mean that a healthy and properly cared for Pit Bull would attack randomly. They are actually well behaved around children and eager to please their masters.

The English Staffordshire Bull Terrier is also called Staffie or Staff and he is a dog of medium size, with almost the same appearance as Pit Bull. The difference between the two of them is that the Pit Bull outweighs him by almost 14 kg (30 lbs.) and has longer legs. The Staffie also has broad head, dark eyes, pronounced cheek muscles and a scissor bite. They are friendly and affectionate towards their owners, just like Pit Bulls.

The problem occurs when these two breeds are exploited by their owners who use their eagerness to please by training them to attack other people, dogs and animals. Even though the blood sports and dogfights are illegal, they still happen in the USA and Britain.

5. American Bulldog

The American Bulldog is a dog of medium size and he was developed as a working dog. He is stocky, strong, and muscular with a large head and muzzle. It has a short coat which does not shed a lot, small dark eyes and prominent ears. The colors vary but they are usually white, black, brown etc. When it comes to his character, he is loyal, confident, and active and love being part of the family. They are so emotional that they can become self-destructive if ignored long a long period of time.

They always bond strongly with their owners, and even though their origin and physique give them a bad name, if you give them proper training and socialization, you won’t get a better family and companion pet. That means that walking and exercising them regularly while making them meet other dogs and people is a must.

6. Olde English Bulldogge

The Olde English Bulldogge is a recently created dog breed that is supposed to be a recreation of the old working bulldog from the early 1800s in England. It was created by crossing Pit Bulls and Bullmastiffs with English Bulldogs. It looks similar to the now extinct English bulldogs but it also has a friendly and kind temperament. It was recreated in the 70s in the USA and it has a stocky and powerful body like his descendants. The skull is large, the ears and eyes are small while the stocky legs are of medium length.

The Olde English Bulldogges are suitable as companions and family pets because they are loyal and affectionate like most ‘bully’ breeds. They are also alert, confident and bond strongly. The Olde English Bulldogge became a fully recognized breed in 2014 and represents the old English bulldog but less aggressive and friendlier.

7. Bullmastiff

The Bullmastiff is a dog of large size and he was developed in the 19^th century, created from the old English Mastiff and the now already extinct Old English Bulldog. What is interesting about this breed is that they rarely bark and they can be very quiet. The coat is short and usually reddish brown or brindle.

They are the natural guard dogs, which means that they do not need specific training to guard their families. However, you should keep in mind that they are rather independent and in order for them to become well-behaved family dogs, they must be trained properly and with patience.

They get bored easily if the tasks are repeated and repeated all over again but they are great in obedience, tracking, and agility and carting. They are strong and powerful, and even though their physical appearance seems intimidating, they are actually very sensitive and emotional. Having in mind that they are huge dogs, they should be taken out and exercised regularly. That is why they are more suited for life in suburban parts or houses with wide yards.

8. English Bulldog

The English or British Bulldog is usually referred to as simply the Bulldog and it is different from the American Bulldog. It is a muscular dog with a famous wrinkled face, pushed up nose and short legs. According to AKC, the Bulldogs are the 5^th most popular dogs in 203 in the USA.

The differences between the English and American Bulldogs are in the size since the American Bulldog is a bit bigger and heavier. Some of the first mentions of this breed can be found in the literature from the 16^th century and the Bulldog has been a popular mascot ever since. It was the official mascot of the US Marine Corps and many universities use him as the official mascot.

Since they are short faced and have small nasal cavities, they have difficulty breathing, especially during the scorching summer days. You must keep your pet from the intensive heat and always provide him with fresh water and shade. It is not unusual for a Bulldog to die from the results of hyperthermia.

When it comes to their health, it is the fact that over 80% of Bulldogs are delivered by Caesarean section since they have huge heads that can easily get stuck in a mother’s birth canal. Other important things concerning health are about cleaning – the Bulldog’s folds on his face must be cleaned daily in order to avoid infections, since they can become very sweaty.

The same goes for their curling tails which can get very tight so they require applying ointment. And like all dogs, they must exercise daily because if they become overweight, they can acquire heart and lung problems, including the stress on their joints due to the inability to stand all the weight.

9. English Mastiff

The English Mastiff is a dog breed of large size that is a descendent of the ancient Alaunt and Pugnaces Britanniae and it also belongs to the ancient Molosser group of dogs. What makes them distinguished is the enormous size, a massive head and the famous ‘black mask’ or the black muzzle. The modern lineage of this breed can be traced to the 19^th century in England.

Even though this dog breed is feared because of its huge size and intimidating appearance, the English Mastiff has a gentle and loving nature which makes him a gentle giant indeed. He is considered to be the largest dog in the world in the terms of mass since the typical male can weight 113 kg and the female 91 kg. The colors of the short coat can vary, and they are usually sand colored and the ‘black masks’ are a must. They are described as powerful yet gentle dogs, brave and loyal and best suited for country or suburban life due to their huge size.

When it comes to their health, having in mind that they are huge dogs, they require daily exercise and training. However, it is recommended that you do not allow excessive running until the puppy is two years old, because that can damage his growth plates. You should also provide your dog with a soft surface so he would not develop various swellings and other health problems. The average lifespan is 7 years.

Other ‘Bully’ Dog Breeds Worth Mentioning

Victorian Bulldog
Bulldog Boxer
Bhote Kukur
Spanish Mastiff
Rottweiler
Renascence Bulldog
Pyrenean Mastiff
Pug
Old Boston Bulldog
Neapolitan Mastiff
Great Dane
French Bulldog
Brazilian Mastiff
Bordeaux Mastiff
Argentine Dogo
Cane Corso Mastiff
Majorca Mastiff
Brazilian Buldogge
Boston Bulldog
Belgian Draft Mastiff
Banter Bulldog
Bantam Bulldog
Aussie Bulldog
Catahoula Bulldog

To sum up, these ‘infamous’ bully breeds come from the breed called Molosser, which is a group of huge muscular dogs with large bones and powerful bites, originating in ancient Greece. Today, most of these bully dogs are characterized by intimidating physique which makes them infamous in the press and society.

However, the bad owners are at fault, since they are the ones that still use these dog breeds for dog fighting and blood sports, thus exploiting their eagerness to please and affectionate natures. All of these actions are illegal and fatal in both physical and mental sense for a dog. Not to mention that there are many illegal breeding houses and backyard puppy mills which exist only for the profit and sell the poor puppies to irresponsible owners and sellers.

Some of the bully dog breeds mentioned in the article are: Boxer, American Staffordshire Terrier, Bull Terrier, Pit Bull Terrier, American Bulldog, Olde English Bulldogge, Bullmastiff and English Bulldog. All of these dog breeds are very affectionate towards their owners and families and if they are properly trained, socialized and cared for from an early age, they can become great family members and companion dogs.

DIY Cold Weather Dog House: What to Know

By

Vinko Woodman

-

April 17, 2024

Being able to provide shelter for your dog is a necessity if you want to keep him happy and healthy. He may have fun romping around outside and taking in all of the wonderful smells. Not to mention that you get to keep the inside of your home free of fur.

Whether your dog simply does better outdoors or your home is too small for them, it’s important that you provide some kind of shelter that he can use. This is even more essential during the cold winter months, when he is at risk for hypothermia and frostbite.

Even cold weather dog breeds that do well in winter need some kind of shelter from the ice and snow so that their health is not being jeopardized. In this article, there are tips and how-to on winterizing your dog house, as well as building one from scratch.

Hypothermia and frostbite

Winter can be a cruel time for those who are exposed to the elements, and the same is true of your dog. Hypothermia sets in when your dog’s internal temperature is abnormally low. This can result in damage to your dog’s central nervous system.

The heart and rate of blood flow are also affected, as they begin to slow in an attempt to preserve themselves. Signs of hypothermia include an irregular heartbeat, impaired consciousness, and irregular breathing. If you see that your dog is acting lethargic or being slower than normal, then you should seek medical attention immediately.

Frostbite is a more difficult condition to diagnose, due to your dog’s fur. Your dogs extremities should be checked on a regular basis, such as their ears, tail and paws. If they feel extremely cold, then they are suffering from frostbite.

This is when the body retracts the blood flowing into the extremities in order to keep the core temperature regular. This means that ice crystals can form in your dog’s blood and lead to damage in his veins and arteries.

Where to put your dog house

Even though his shelter may be prepared for winter, taking the extra steps to pick a spot that maximizes on the insulation of the dog house ensures that he reaps all of the rewards. First, the opening of the dog shelter should face a direction that doesn’t directly point into the wind.

Wind chill can be even colder than the surrounding temperatures, and the insulation will do no good if the wind is blowing directly into his home. If this proves to be difficult, you can cover the entrance of the shelter with scraps of carpeting, old bathmats, or plastic sheeting.

Secondly, choose a part of the yard that is not prone to flooding. When the ice and snow melts, the yard can become quite wet and swampy. Choosing elevated areas will ensure that he’s dry and avoid the inside of his shelter from becoming wet as well. With nowhere to be dry, your dog can have hypothermia set in very quickly if he is always wet and cold.

Thirdly, the dog shelter should be raised from the ground through the use of some kind of platform.

The flat inside surface of the shelter is in constant contact with the ground, which makes it quite easy for the inside of the dog house to become cold. Elevation from the ground causes the house to retain more heat, making it easier for your dog to stay warm.

Winterizing a dog house

If you already have a doghouse in place in your yard, then there are some extra purchases that you can make in order to help your dog stay warm during the winter.

Many doghouses that you can purchase at the store are already insulated for both cold and summer months, but it helps to go that extra step to maximize the comfort of your dog.

These options are cost-effective solutions that will protect the health of your dog and ensure that he is comfortable. They can also be switched around if your dog isn’t particular about any of the additions that are made.

Insulation

Many dog houses are already equipped with a variety of insulation materials, but you can always add your own. Check that the dog house that you’ve purchased has insulation in all parts of the shelter.

If not, then you’re probably going to have to add your own, especially in the floor. Styrofoam sheets or polystyrene foam can be used between the walls of the dog house, and make great insulating material.

Be sure to check your dog’s house for any holes or weak spots, as the last thing you need is for your dog to start using the insulation as his new chew toy. Not only will that undo all of your work, but it can also make your dog very sick.

Heating pads and units

If you worry that the insulation alone won’t be enough to keep your dog warm, then you can always choose to include heating pads or heating units within the dog shelter to help. Heating pads should be no bigger than the size of the shelter interior, and should not be left on at all times.

Doing so can leave your dog at risk for being burned or becoming dehydrated. Heating units can be added to warm the exterior of the house, which will radiate to within. If possible, you can put these devices on some kind of timer so that it only warms up when the dog needs it.

No matter which option you choose, it’s important that the cords be hidden from your dog in order to avoid the risk of chewing. An electrocuted dog should be the least of your worries during the winter season.

Bedding

Choosing bedding that’s cheap such as sheets and fabric bedding may seem like the easy option, but they’re not going to keep your dog warm if they get wet.

Lining the bottom of the shelter with straw and/or cedar shavings will do well to keep your dog both warm and dry. They’re quite cheap, and come in quite large bags, meaning that they can be used over and over again.

Be aware that you’re going to have to change the bedding on a regular basis – once every two to three weeks – in order to provide constantly clean and warm bedding for your dog.

Water

It’s easy for your dog’s water bowl to freeze during the winter, and he’s going to need a constant supply of fresh water during the day. You can choose to change his water every few hours, or you can splurge a little and decide to get a heated water bowl to prevent his water from freezing. These are easy to find in any pet store, and should not be placed in the middle of your dog’s bedding.

How to install styrofoam sheets

If you’re eager to learn how to place Styrofoam sheets of polystyrene insulation into your dog’s house, it’s a lot easier than you think. It will help to trap your dog’s heat within the dog house so that he can stay warm even on those really cold days.

These steps are best fit for a wooden dog house that is square.

The first thing you’ll need to do is remove the front wall of the dog house. This gives you easy access to the inside so that you can measure everything properly. Using a measuring tape, measure the dimensions of the inside.
The next step is to mark the dimensions into the panels of the insulation using a straight edge.
The panels should then be cut out of the foam using a utility knife. This ensures that the edges are straight and will fit together when placed inside the dog house.
The foam panels are then stapled to the outside of the dog house using a staple gun. The inside should be checked to make sure that the staples haven’t gone all the way through so that your dog won’t be injured.
Another foam panel should be stapled to the front wall of your dog house. Laying the wall flat on the ground can make this a lot easier, and a hole should be cut in the shape of the entrance. In order to avoid rough edges, you should smooth them down with sandpaper.
Once the front wall is reattached to your dog house, you should start cutting panels of 1/4-inch plywood in order to cover the foam. The panels should be at least three inches wider than the wall itself so that it can cover the corners of the foam.
Using a staple gun, staple the plywood to the foam. You can paint if desired. Examine the areas between the walls, floor and ceiling of the dog house. If there are any gaps and/or cracks, then you can fill them using a caulk gun and caulk to keep the cold air from seeping in those these faults.

Building a dog heater out of a paint can

If you don’t want to spend the money to buy a heater for your dog’s house, you can build on yourself from a few simple materials. All you’ll need is

one 100 watt flood light
a paint can
an extension cord
a lamp base
wire clamp
a drill
a hole saw equal or slightly larger than the hole in an electrical box
jigsaw
drill bits
corner brackets
screws and nuts
1/2-inch wood screws
wire strippers

These materials will help to keep your dog’s house at roughly 60 degrees Fahrenheit during the winter.

Be aware that if you have no electrical experience, you may be putting your dog at risk if an electrical fire starts. Keep an eye on the house for a few hours after everything is installed to make sure that it is in working order.

Using a marker, trace the outer lip of the pain can where you’d like to mount it in the dog house. Using a drill, drill a hole somewhere along the traced line. Use the jigsaw to cut along the traced line. Smooth done the frayed edges with a file or a saw.
Use your hole saw to cut a hole in the center of the paint can. The hole should be bigger than your wire clamp. Align the center hole of the electrical box with the one drilled in the can and mark the holes for the electrical box on the outside of the can using a marker. Holes should be drilled to mount the box to the inside of the can using bolts and nuts. Washers can be used to lock them in place.
Mount the wire clamp in the center hole with the clamping part facing out. Then remove the end of your extension cord that usually plugs into the wall. Strip each of the wires bare with wire strippers about half an inch down from the end.
The stripped end of your cord should be strung through the wire clamp and pull it out through the open end of the can. Twist the end of your hot wire and bend it clockwise into a hook. This should be hooked around the brass screw on the back of the lamp base and tightened to it. The same should be done with the white wire and it should be hooked to the silver screw.
Loosen one of the screws that are holding the electrical box in place and hook the green wire (the bare ground wire) around it, and tighten it in place. The lamp base should then be attached to the electrical box using the two screws that it came with.
The corner brackets should be mounted on the outside of the can using the drilled holes and secured in place with the screws and bolts.
Mount the lighting to the ceiling of the dog house using the wood screws and the other sides of the corner brackets. Screw in the light bulb to test. If it is not, then recheck step four to see that your wiring has been done correctly.

You can see how to make a paint can heater here:

And You must watch all the video in this articles, very useful stuff!

Building an insulating dog house from scratch

If you want to feel really accomplished and build your own dog house from scratch, then it’s quite easy to do if you have the right tools and a lot of patience.

You may require some help in the building process, as well as getting the parts that you’ll need to build the perfect, warm dog house for your dog.

This is a two-partition dog house, so that your dog has the choice of looking outside, or seeking shelter in a separate part of the house to sleep or relax.

The materials that you’ll need are 2x4s, 3/4-inch plywood, 1 1/2-inch thick foam, glue, staple gun, weather-resistant screws, circular saw and/or saber saw, a drill, piano hinge, tar paper, metal drip edge, hammer, roofing nails, roofing cement, and asphalt shingles.

The first and most important step is to measure your dog. The dog house that you’ll want to build has to be big enough for your dog to turn around in, but small enough that it will retain his body heat and keep him warm. The measurements that you should use are:
- width: dog’s length + 12 inches
- length: dog’s length + 18 inches
- height at front: dog’s height + 9 inches
- height at back: dog’s height + 3 inches
The dog house will be built with a sloping roof to promote rain runoff so that the roof is less prone to leaking.
The second step is to get some 2x4s that have been pressure-treated. This means that they aren’t going to warp or splinter after extended outdoor use. However, be aware that such wood is bad for pets if there is skin contact, so these should always be covered in the final steps of the building process. The 2x4s should be cut to the dimensions taken earlier according to the width and length in order to build the base. The ends of the 2x4s should be butted together and affixed with screws that are weather-resistant.
Cut a floor panel to fit over the 2x4s out of a piece of 3/4-inch plywood. Secure to the base of the dog house with weather-resistant screws.
In order to cut the sides of the dog house, they’re going to have to match exactly, or you’re going to end up with a crooked roof and gaps between the roof and the wall. In order to cut identical angles, tape the two pieces of plywood together so that they’re secure. Using a clamp, secure a straight edge to the wood, and cut along the edge with a circular saw or saber saw. Now both sides of the dog house will have the same declining angle for the roof.
The sides of the dog house should then be secured to the base using some more weather-resistant screws. Ensure that they are perpendicular to the base when they’re being attached so that the roof can be attached properly.
Next, the corner braces need to be added in order to make the dog house sturdy. This also prevents drafts from occurring, so your dog can stay warm. Simply screw together two strips of plywood to create each brace. The corner braces should then be attached to each corner of the sides, front and back panels with weather-resistant screws.
The next step is installing the partition wall. This is where most of your dog’s body heat will be trapped when he isn’t by the entrance, so that he can stay warm during the winter. The partition wall should be secured to the base, and a plywood panel that has been cut at the same angle as the sides should be attached to the partition.
In order to maximize the heat-retaining ability of your dog’s home, insulation should be installed. Foam insulation can be cut to the dimensions of the walls of the dog’s home, and then covered with plywood in order to secure in place and prevent your dog from chewing on or eating it. The insulation can be attached using a staple gun or glue.
Before installing the front wall onto the dog house, you’ll need to measure an opening for your dog. Using the measurements you took earlier, the height should be a few inches above your dog’s back, and the width should be your dog’s width plus 3 inches. The opening should be centered in the panel of wood and then cut out with a saber saw. The front wall can then be attached using corner braces and then sanding the edges smooth in order to prevent splinters and snagging on collars.
When cutting the roof, make sure that it is longer and wider than the base. This ensure that the rain falls away from the perimeter of the dog house and won’t pool around the base. The roof is secured to the back wall of the shelter using a weather-resistant piano hinge. This makes it easy for you to get inside and do any necessary cleaning. Once in place, the roof is covered with tar paper and a metal drip edge is added around its perimeter.
Lastly, the shingles are added to the roof to make it waterproof. The roofing nails should be long enough to attach them to the wood properly, but short enough that your dog can’t get at the sharp ends. Starting at the bottom edge of the roof, overlap the shingles on each row as you work your way to the top to create a waterproof seal. Roofing cement should be added to the top edge in order to seal out any moisture.

To build other kinds of insulated dog houses for winter, here are a few more tutorials:

When it comes to keeping your dog happy and healthy, it’s important that you also take the weather into account. It can be easy to forget that your dog can get cold because of the layer of fur he has on his body. However, by building or modifying an outdoor shelter that you already have, you can ensure that his body temperature is maintained, so that he won’t suffer the effects of hypothermia and/or frostbite.

Top 10 Best Dog Food for Huskies 2022: What to Choose And Why

By

Vinko Woodman

-

April 17, 2024

Huskies are known for being very active animals, so it’s important that they have the right amount of calories to keep up with their lifestyle. Despite their small size, they do need high-energy foods to get them through the day.

Originally bred to be working dogs, such as for sledding, these traits continue to thrive in the breed, and have been known to travel far distances of even a small amount of food. That doesn’t mean that you can feed them just anything, however. Because they’re so different from other dog breeds, they don’t eat like they do.

Eating habits

When it comes to eating, most dogs tend to eat whatever food is put in front of them. This leads to the danger of over-eating and getting sick. However, huskies are quite different. They watch their intake of food to regulate how many calories they’re burning.

If a husky is already full or isn’t very active, they won’t eat at all or will eat a lot less respectively. Typically, a husky will only eat after he has had a lot of exercise. That isn’t to say that huskies won’t overeat, however. When they do, they put the weight on very quickly and it becomes quite difficult to lose.

Overweight huskies also have shorter life spans than healthier ones, as they are more prone to other diseases and conditions that are associated with weight gain.

Another eating habit that is very common in huskies is a result of their stubborn nature. The smallest things could put a husky off of a certain food, and he may choose to avoid it altogether.

Huskies are very individualistic and can be quite particular of the food that they are being given. From the size and texture of the food, or being bored of eating the same food all the time, there are a number of reasons that a husky may not eat. Even experiencing sickness after eating can result in a husky not eating that kind of food ever again.

Boredom is a big factor to get over when it comes to feeding your husky. Leaving food out for too long can result in your dog becoming bored with it and will choose to avoid it altogether. If you find that he hasn’t eaten and there are no other signs of illness that could be causing this, return his food to the bag or container and try again at a later feeding schedule.

How often should they be fed

Before discussing the best foods for your dog, it’s important to consider just how much food you should be feeding him and how often. Huskies are known for being grazers, so leaving a bowl of food for them to much on throughout the day can certainly help them deal with their calorie count.

However, to avoid them getting bored with their food, divide their meals up into two or even three equal servings. This gives them a source of calories that they can burn throughout the day without them having to resort to the fat being stored in their bodies, which can cause them to lose weight unnecessarily.

In conjunction with how often, knowing how much food to give can also help your dog from becoming overweight. They do not require as much food as other dog breeds, and can perform just as well on relatively smaller amounts of food.

That’s why you should be careful with the amount of food that you put in your dog’s bowl. Overfeeding can quickly lead to weight gain, as well as upset stomachs and diarrhea. It can be difficult to determine how much food should be given, as a dog’s weight and energy levels both play as factors.

A good baseline range to work from is roughly sixty percent of the food that the manufacturer recommends and to adjust it accordingly to meet your dog’s needs.

What to do if my Husky is underweight

Whether you’ve adopted a new husky or your dog has gone through a period of illness that has caused him to lose a lot of weight, there are steps that you can take to help your dog regain what he’s lost.

Weight management can be difficult, as it’s hard to see what your dog really looks like with all of the thick fur in the way. The best way to determine how healthy your dog is, is to feel through the fur to his body.

If you can feel his ribs and spine easily, then your dog is underweight. Choose a high-quality dog food and mix in with dog food to provide the calories needed to start the weight gain process.

Only choose a high quality dog food, as cheap stuff may smell great, but it won’t have the essential vitamins and minerals that will help to restore the function of your dog’s organs and muscles. To further increase weight gain, choose high quality treats that are also good for your dog. Some of the best treats include hard boiled eggs, raw baby carrots, and cooked pieces of chicken.

Choosing different foods

Due to their prone nature to boredom, there have been many questions as to whether a husky should remain on the same dog food or should be provided with a variety of foods in their meals throughout the day.

Many vets and nutritionists are of the opinion that constantly switching a dog’s food can lead to an upset stomach, allergic reactions and agitation of the digestive tract. However, there are other opinions that state that dogs are natural scavengers, and that there is nothing wrong with adding variety to their meals, and may even perform better on such changes.

Instead of purchasing different brands of dog food, you can try sticking to one, and then adding different things to your dog’s food each day. Anything that changes the flavor, such as different kinds of fish, raw minced meat, peas or shredded carrots, can make all the difference in the world and get your dog eating regularly again.

Cheese in extremely small amounts is acceptable, but should be avoided in larger quantities.

When adding new ingredients, reduce the amount of kibble and replace it with the equivalent measurement of the food you’re adding. Simply throwing in more food can quickly lead to overeating and giving your dog too many calories.

If you do decide to do a complete overhaul of the food that you’re giving your dog, it’s important that you do so on a gradual basis over a period of two weeks.

Some of the old food should be exchanged with the new in order to see if there are any adverse reactions. Gradually decreasing and increasing these amounts respectively will eventually lead to your dog accepting the new food without any problems.

Finding the Best Dog Food for Siberian Husky

1. Nutro Max Chicken Meal and Rice

When it comes to large dog breeds, Nutro Max provides the nourishment that they need to keep going throughout the day. Only high-quality ingredients are used, such as chicken protein, from farm-raised chickens, and whole grain rice.

There are no by-products, preservatives, artificial flavors or artificial colors that are added to the food. It was developed to provide a complete and balanced nutrition for any large dog breed, chock full of all the vitamins, minerals and calories that they’ll need to get the job done.

The dry kibble bits will help to reduce any plaque and tartar on the teeth, the high protein content promotes the development and growth of the muscles, and the fatty acids improve skin and coat, so that your dog will look his best.

Not only does Nutro Max help your dog on the outside, but it also helps within, promoting a strong immune system to fight off infections and illnesses that may arise.

2. Orijen Original Dog Food

Orijen Adult dog food has been specifically formulated to match the natural dietary needs of your dog. Containing over 90% meat ingredients made of chicken, turkey, eggs and fish that are delivered fresh each day to their processing plant, your dog will benefit from the calories that Orijen provides for their growth, development and calorie-burning.

Their food is free from any preservatives and the ingredients are never frozen, which has shown to destroy some of the nutritional value of ingredients. Fruits and vegetables are also included in the making of their dog food, and they’re entirely grain-free, making it easy for you and your dog to avoid any grain allergies that may occur from cheap, mass-produced dog foods.

3. Innova Adult Dog Food

Made with all-natural ingredients, Innova is made with chicken, turkey, whole peas and fresh fruits, providing all of the vitamins and minerals that are needed to keep your dog healthy and happy.

The high-quality protein is harvested from farm-raised chickens and turkeys, and there are no by-products included to jeopardize the quality of the food being provided to your dog. Your dog’s skin and coat are also cared for with the inclusion of Omega-3 fatty acids, as well as the necessary ingredients to boost their immune system.

4. Blue Buffalo Food

Blue Buffalo has quickly gained popularity as one of the best dog foods to purchase as an alternative to the raw diet.

They contain a unique blend of vitamins, minerals and antioxidants to keep your dog’s health in shape. It is without any corn, wheat or soy, and only healthy grains are used, such as brown rice, barley and oats to give them the energy that their body needs to burn calories. Vegetables such as carrots and sweet potatoes provide the complex carbohydrates and roughage that are needed.

Tolerance and health issues

Many huskies and sled dogs are unable to tolerate specific ingredients that are commonly found in commercial dog food.

The cheaper brands of dog food are mostly guilty of this, which means that you’ll have to spend a little more at the pet store to find the right food for your dog. Avoid brands that include wheat in their ingredients, as this can lead to the irritation of the digestive system.

Your dog may also develop Zinc Responsive Dermatitis. The signs of this disease include scabs and hair loss, especially around the muzzle, ears and eyes. This is due to the fact that huskies and similar breeds of dog have difficult time absorbing zinc, so they will start to show signs of deficiency, even if the food that they’re eating has the right amount.

Symptoms can appear when your dog is stressed or is being fed a diet that is high in plant material and/or calcium. Adding a zinc supplement to his food should clear up the symptoms within a week or two.

Foods that should be avoided

There are some foods that should never be given to your dog on any basis. These foods include:

Large amounts of dairy: many dogs are known for being lactose intolerance. This means that they are unable to digest the specific protein that is contained in milk. Ingesting large amounts of dairy can lead to gas and loose stools. Each dog is different, however, and reacts to different amounts and kinds of lactose.

Foods like whole milk and ice cream can have a sudden, adverse effect on your dog. However, low fat greek yogurt and some kinds of cheese can be fine for your dog to eat, as long as they’re provided in moderation.

Cooked bones and fat trimmings: you may think that it’s best not to waste food by giving your dog your table scraps, but you could be doing more harm than good. Fat that has been trimmed from meat can lead to pancreatitis, where the pancreas becomes inflamed from infection and causes serious abdominal pain.

Dogs can choke on the bones from cooked meat, and they can also splinter within the digestion tract. This can lead to the obstruction of the bowels or lacerations that can cause internal bleeding.

Onions/anything in the garlic family: these ingredients in any form should not be included in your dog’s diet. Onions and garlic are known to destroy a dog’s blood cells, which can lead to anemia.

Signs of this occurring include vomiting, weakness, difficulty breathing, having no interest in food and lethargy. Avoid these foods in any form, included powdered, dehydrated, cooked, or raw. Putting your dog’s health at risk simply isn’t worth it.

Raisins, grapes or prunes: you may have heard recently that grapes and raisins can be detrimental to your dog’s health, but may not know why. Raisins and grapes can cause kidney failure; the kidneys are responsible for cleaning the blood of any waste products and removing any excess water to be excreted as urine.

The failure of these organs can lead to the rapid decline of your dog’s health. The first sign is repetitive vomiting for an extended period of time. Lethargy and depression soon present afterwards; once you notice these, you should take your dog to a vet immediately.

Macadamia nuts: cashews and peanuts may be provided to your dog as an occasional treat, but macadamia nuts are a no-no. These nuts can actually be fatal to your dog and lead to poisoning.

Signs include muscle tremors, paralysis of the hindquarters, weakness in the hind legs, vomiting, increased temperature, and a rapid heart rate. It’s best if you avoid giving any foods that contain these nuts. If you have done so accidentally, get your dog to a vet immediately.

Avocado: guacamole may be delicious, but your dog may not think so. Avocados contain persin, which affects dogs differently from humans. It can damage your dog’s heart muscles, which can lead to lethargy, difficulty breathing, vomiting and diarrhea.

Persin is present in the leaves, seeds and bark of avocado plants, so if you’re growing your own indoors, it’s important that you keep your dog way from them. Resist the temptation to share your nacho dip with your dog, and leave him to his regular treats instead.

Coffee or tea: caffeine can be great as a pick-me-up in the mornings, but your husky is not going to appreciate the effects of it in his system. Caffeine intake in large amounts can be quite fatal for dogs and has no known cure.

Your dog will become restless, have muscle tremors and fits, heart palpitations, rapid breathing, and bleeding. Caffeine can also be found in cocoa and chocolate, as well as some energy drinks. Why not wake up your dog the old fashioned way with a good daily run and high-quality food?

Taking care of your husky’s diet can be quite rewarding if done properly, and will help your husky to lead a full and healthy life.

Though they are known for being quite finicky when it comes to their food, it’s important that you exercise patience when providing healthy meals that they also find attractive. Going through a period of trial and error is normal in any husky owner’s life, but once you’ve found the right balance, then all of your worries simply melt away.