Boston Terrier

 3 month old Boston Terrier

The Boston Terrier is a breed of dog originating in the United States of America. This "American Gentleman" was accepted in 1893 by the American Kennel Club as a non-sporting breed.Color and markings are important when distinguishing this breed to the AKC standard. They should be either black, brindle or seal with white markings.Bostons are small and compact with a short tail and erect ears. The AKC says they are highly intelligent and very easily trained. They are friendly and can be stubborn at times. The average life span of a Boston is around 11 to 13 years, though some can live well into their teens.

Other names	Boston Bull Boston Bull Terrier Boxwood,American Gentlemen
Country of origin	United States
Traits Litter size 4–6 puppies Life span 11-15 years

Maltese Dog

The Maltese is a small breed of dog in the toy group. It descends from dogs originating in the Central Mediterranean Area. The breed name and origins are generally understood to derive from the Mediterranean island nation of Malta; however, the name is sometimes described with reference to the distinct Adriatic island of Mljet, or a defunct Sicilian town called Melita.

Maltese dogs with electronic collars.
Country of origin	Central Mediterranean Area
Patronage	Italy
]Traits Weight Male 3-8 lb. Female 2-7 lb. Height Male 8-10 in. Female 8-9 in. Coat White Litter size avg. 3 to 5 puppies. Life span 12-15 years

Afghan Hound

The Afghan Hound is one of the oldest sighthound dog breeds. Distinguished by its thick, fine, silky coat and its tail with a ring curl at the end, the breed acquired its unique features in the cold mountains of Afghanistan,and east of Iran where it was originally used to hunthares and gazelles by coursing them. Its local name is Sag-e Tāzī (Dari Persian: سگ تازی) or Tāžī Spay (Pashto: تاژي سپی‎). Other alternate names for this breed are Kuchi Hound,Tāzī, Balkh Hound, Baluchi Hound, Barutzy Hound, Shalgar Hound, Kabul Hound,Galanday Hound, or sometimes incorrectly African Hound.

An Afghan Hound
Other names	Tazi, Tazhi Spay, Da Kochyano Spay, Sage Balochi, Ogar Afgan, Eastern Greyhound/Persian Greyhound
Country of origin	Afghanistan, Iran, Pakistan
Traits Weight Male 20–27 kg (45–60 lb) Height Male 61–73 cm (24–29 in) Coat Long and fine Color Fawn, Gold, Brindle, White, Red, Cream, Blue, Gray and Tricolor Litter size 6–8 puppies Life span 11–13 years

German Shepherd

The German Shepherd Dog (German: Deutscher Schäferhund), also known as an Alsatian or just the German Shepherd, is a breed of large-sized dog that originated in Germany.The German Shepherd is a relatively new breed of dog, with its origin dating to 1899. As part of the Herding Group, the German Shepherd is a working dog developed originally for herding and guarding sheep. Because of its strength, intelligence and abilities in obedience training it is often employed in police and military roles around the world.German Shepherds currently account for 4.6% of all dogs registered with the American Kennel Club. Due to its loyal and protective nature, the German Shepherd is one of the most registered of breeds.

German Shepherd
Other names	Alsatian Berger Allemand Deutscher Schäferhund GSD Schäferhund
Traits Weight Male 35–43 kilograms (77–95 lb) Female 25–33 kilograms (55–73 lb) Height Male 60–65 centimetres (24–26 in) Female 55–60 centimetres (22–24 in) Coat Short Haired, some with more than others. Color Most commonly tan with black saddle Litter size 5–10 Life span 9.7 years

Chihuahua

The Chihuahua (Spanish: chihuahueño) is the smallest breed of dog and is named for the state of Chihuahua in Mexico. Chihuahuas come in a wide variety of sizes, head shapes, colors, and coat lengths.

Temperament:

A Chihuahua must be chosen with care, as the temperament of its owner can make a difference in the temperament of the pup. Ill tempered Chihuahuas can be easily provoked to attack, and are therefore generally unsuitable for homes with small children. The breed tends to be fiercely loyal to one particular owner and in some cases may become over protective of the person, especially around other people or animals. If properly managed by older children, 13 and up, they can adapt to this kind of living with a dedicated owner. They do not always get along with other breeds.

Other names	Chihuahua
Country of origin	Mexico
Traits Weight Male Under 6 pounds (Under 3 kilograms) Female Under 6 pounds (Under 3 kilograms) Height Male 6–10 inches (15–23 centimeters) Female 6–10 inches (15–23 centimeters) Coat smooth or long haired Color white, black, tan and many other colors Litter size normally 5 Life span 10–18 years

 

Schnauzer

The schnauzer is a dog breed that originated in Germany in the 15th and 16th centuries. The term comes from the German word for "mustache", because of the dog's distinctively bearded snout. Some authorities, such as Encyclopedia Britannica, also claim that the name is derived from the word's secondary meaning of "mustache". Although the schnauzer is considered a terrier-type dog, they do not have the typical terrier temperament.

Friendly and loving, schnauzers become part of their families and can get along well with children if raised and socialized properly. They are protective, energetic and will alert members of the household to any potential danger. The schnauzer, ever alert, makes an excellent watchdog, although its watchful nature can lead to persistent barking. To avoid annoying the neighbors, dog owners should make every effort to curb excessive barking through training.The breed is of above average intelligence and can be independent minded, so early training and diverse daily exercise is recommended.

Siberian Husky

The Siberian Husky (Russian: "Siberian husky") is a medium-size, dense-coat working dog breed that originated in north-eastern Siberia. The breed belongs to the Spitz genetic family. It is recognisable by its thickly furred double coat, sickle tail, erect triangular ears, and distinctive markings.

Huskies are an active, energetic, and resilient breed whose ancestors came from the extremely cold and harsh environment of the Siberian Arctic. Siberian Huskies were bred by the Chukchi of Northeastern Asia to pull heavy loads long distances through difficult conditions. The dogs were imported into Alaska during the Nome Gold Rush and later spread into the United States and Canada. They were initially sent to Alaska and Canada assled dogs but rapidly acquired the status of family pets and show dogs. Because of its efficiency as a working breed, most huskies are bred to be able to withstand long work days on little amounts of food. They can travel up to 40 miles per day.

Yorkshire Terrier

The Yorkshire Terrier is a small dog breed of terrier type, developed in the 19th century in the county of Yorkshire, England to catch rats in clothing mills, also used for rat-baiting. The defining features of the breed are its size, 3 pounds (1.4 kg) to 10 pounds (4.5 kg), and its gray,black,and tan coat. The breed is nicknamed Yorkie and is placed in the Toy Terrier section of the Terrier Group by the Fédération Cynologique Internationale and in the Toy Group or Companion Group by other kennel clubs, although all agree that the breed is a terrier. A popular companion dog, the Yorkshire Terrier has also been part of the development of other breeds, such as the Australian Silky Terrier.

A Yorkshire Terrier
Nicknames	Yorkie
Country of origin	England
Traits Life span 13 to 16 years

Shi Tzu's

The name Shih Tzu comes from the Chinese word for "lion" because this kind of dog was bred to resemble "the lion as depicted in traditional oriental art,"^[1] such as the Chinese guardian lions. (There is also the Pekingese breed, called "lion dog" in Chinese). "Shih Tzu" is the Wade-Giles romanization the Chinese characters , meaning lion; Wade-Giles romanization was in use when the breed was first introduced in America, but in modern times Pinyin romanization is used, rendering it shīzi. The Mandarin Chinese pronunciation is approximately . The Shih Tzu is also known as the "Xi Shi dog" (西施犬) becauseXi Shi was regarded as one of the most beautiful women of ancient China. Shih Tzus were nicknamed the Chrysanthemum Dog in England in the 1930s.^[3] The dog may also be called the Tibetan Lion Dog, but whether or not the breed should be referred to as a "Tibetan" or "Chinese" breed is a source of argument, the absolute answer to which "may never be known".

Other names	Chinese Lion Dog Chrysanthemum Dog
Country of origin	China
[hide]Traits Weight Male 4–7.25 kilograms (8.8–16.0 lb) Female 4–7.25 kilograms (8.8–16.0 lb) Height Male 20–28 centimetres (7.9–11 in) Female 20–28 centimetres (7.9–11 in) Coat See Coats section below Color Gold Dark/Light Brown White Black Black/White Brindle Litter size 1–8 Life span 10–16 years

Not recommended foods for canine consume

The following provides an extensive list of foods / plants that dogs should never eat. These items when ingested by a dog can cause minor to major illness, organ failure and even death. 

Avocado        Flesh of the avocado fruit is OK for dogs in small amounts. Avocados contain persin - a fungicidal toxin. When a dog is fed large amounts of the fruit vomiting and diarreha can result from overdose of persin. The leaves, pit (seed), and bark also contain persin and should not be ingested by dogs.

Alcoholic Beverages
Any type of alcohol can be poisonous to your dog and aside from intoxication, can cause a coma or even death.

Bones
Employ caution when giving bones to your dog. Some bones can be very dangerous - as they can splinter and cause obstruction or laceration of the digestive system. Bones from many types of fish are dangerous for dog just as they are for people. The cooked bones of salmon are not harmful.

Baking Powder, Baking Soda, Dry Yeast, and other leavening agents 
If ingested in large amounts - and please remember large amounts must be considered in relation to your dog's size - can cause problems with electrolyte levels (low calcium, low potassium, high sodium), muscle spasms and/or congestive heart failure. Also avoid giving your dog large amounts (again size is relative) of raw dough that contains leavening agents. Remember heat is a catalyst for the leavening agent - raw dough can swell in your dogs stomach and cause serious if not lethal damage.
Candy containing the sweetener Xylitol
Xylitol can cause liver damage and even death. 

Chocolate
Dogs should never have any type of chocolate. Milk chocolate is not as dangerous for dogs as semi-sweet or unsweetened bakers chocolate.  Chocolate poisoning can cause irregular heart rate and rhythm, restlessness, hyperactivity, diarrhea, vomiting, panting, muscle tremors, abdominal pain, bloody urine, increased body temperature, seizures, coma and death.

Coffee
Can result in increased breathing and heart rate, restlessness and affects the central nervous system.

Dairy Products - in large amounts, small amounts are OK for most dogs
If consumed in large amounts may cause diarrhea. Some dogs are lactose intolerant. If your dog is not lactose intolerant, plain yogurt is good for your dog. A little hard cheese or cottage cheese is also good.

Eggs -  raw can be a hazard, cooked in small amounts are beneficial   
Contain an enzyme called avidin, which decreases the absorption of biotin (a B vitamin). This can lead to skin and hair coat problems. Raw eggs may also contain Salmonella, although the chance of contamination for your dog is low as a dog’s stomach acids are very strong and dog’s also produce a lot of bile. You can cook the eggs to avoid this issue. Due to the avidin it is best not to give eggs every day, but a couple of times a week is fine.

Fat - in large amounts, small amounts of good fat are beneficialButter, margarine, lard, fat trimmings and excessive amounts of oil. Ingesting any substantial amount of these fats can cause failure of the internal organs such as the liver. I do feed my dogs a small amount (1/2 tablespoon for the really little guys like Carmen and Jacob; 1 tablespoon for my dogs who weigh 15lbs to 30lbs and 2 tablespoon for all the larger dogs) of oil. A good quality oil (containing Omega fatty acids) in these small amounts is as good for the dog's health as it is for humans, when ingested in proper quantities on a daily basis. Coconut Oil in small daily amounts is also good for dogs.

Fish - in large quantities are dangerous, small quantities are beneficial
If fed exclusively or in large amounts can result in a thiamine (a B vitamin) deficiency leading to loss of appetite, seizures, and in severe cases, death. A small amount of cooked or canned  fatty fish such as anchovies, salmon, sardines, shad, smelt, mackerelare very good for your dog (on a daily basis is fine - in small amounts) as these types of fish are nutrient rich and a good source of omega fatty acids. 

Fish - Raw, can be dangerous, use caution

Raw fish can contain flukes, a parasite that infests the liver of animals including dogs. This parasite can cause liver damage and subsequently death. Granted in some places around the world  dogs are fed raw fish. Just be aware that in doing so you may put the health of your dog at risk. If you know for certain that the fish in your area is not infested than there is no threat to your dogs health. But remember if fish is fed exclusively or inlarge amounts can result in a thiamine (a B vitamin) deficiency leading to loss of appetite, seizures, and in severe cases, death. A small amount daily is fine. 

Food Coloring

Avoid treats and kibble that contain conventional food coloring. Conventional food coloring is concocted from chemicals that are carcinogenic and cause numerous health issues such as bladder cancer, brain tumors and the inability to concentrate. 



Grapes, Currents 
Can cause vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, abdominal pain, lack of appetite and kidney damage. Grape seed extract is safe  for dogs.

Hops
May cause panting, elevated temperature, increased heart rate, seizures and death. 

Liver - small amounts are beneficial, large amounts are dangerous
In large amounts can cause Vitamen A toxity, leading to kidney damage/failure.

Macadamia Nuts
Can cause vomiting, lethargy, hyperthermia, abdominal pain, stiff joints, lameness and tremors.
  
Marijuana
Can depress the nervous system, cause vomiting, and changes in the heart rate.

Meat - Raw can be dangerous, use caution
May contain bacteria such as Salmonella and E. coli, which can cause vomiting, diarrhea and even death. Dogs are able to fight off Salmonella and E. coli much better than humans can, however some dogs are severely affected and do die. Raw pork can have worms that may be transferred to your dog by eating raw pork. Many people do feed their dogs raw meat and experience no issues. Working dogs such as sled dogs regularly consume raw meat without issue. Just take precautions - make sure the meat is fresh and has been kept in the refrigerator for no more than a few says or was frozen fresh. Reduce the risk of contamination and don't feed your dog raw pork. 

Moldy Foods
Can have varied effects on pets including vomiting and diarrhea.

Mushrooms 

Depending on the type of mushroom. The symptoms may vary - depression, diarrhea, nausea and vomiting, abdominal pain, tearing, hallucinations, defecation, liver failure, seizures, drooling, urination, kidney failure, heart damage, hyperactivity and in some cases, death.

Mustard Seeds
Can have varied effects on pets. 

Onion, Chives, Leeks, Shallots are dangerous, garlic in small amounts is beneficial Contain thiosulphate, the substance responsible for causing ‘Heinx Factor’ anemia in dogs. Can also cause gastrointestinal problems such as vomiting and diarrhea. The amount of thiosulphate found in garlic is much lower than in onions, in fact the amount in garlic is barely traceable!  When garlic is ingested in reasonable amounts there are no harmful affects, only beneficial ones! Garlic is known for its antic cancer, diabetes, liver, heart, kidney disease fighting properties as well as its use as a natural flea repellent and de-wormer for dogs. 

Pits from Apricot / Cherry / Peach / Plum, etc.
Can cause respiratory difficulties such as breathing, coughing and sneezing.

Plants that are toxic if ingested by dogs
Toxic and Non-Toxic Plants (ASPCA)

Potato Leaves and Stems
Can cause problems with the digestive, nervous and urinary systems.

Raisins and Currents 

Can be poisonous to pets and can cause vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, abdominal pain, lack of appetite and kidney damage.

Rhubarb Leaves
Can cause problems with the digestive, nervous and urinary systems.

Salt
In large quantities can cause electrolyte imbalances. 

Seeds from Apples / Pears
Contain arsenic and can have a variety of bad affects on dogs.

Sweeteners

If a product is really wholesome why does it require sweeteners to be appealing to your dog? Sweeteners are not required in your dog’s diet! In fact they are not good for your dog. They are added to many pet foods to make the food more attractive - think about it, some of these products have a lot of fillers - no taste…so the sweeteners give the food some taste. If the product you are going to buy has any of the following ingredients in it, you know what to do - re-shelve it! 

• Cane molasses;
• Corn syrup;
• Fructose;
• Sorbitol;
• Sugar;
• Di-alpha tocopherol acetate.

Remember daily intake of sweeteners is just as bad for dogs as it is for humans. Sugar suppresses the immune system - making it easier for cancer to take hold. Sweeteners also cause allergies, arthritis, cataracts, hypoglycaemia, heart ailments, nervous energy, tooth decay, obesity and so on. The more your dog’s health is compromised the harder it is for your dog’s body to fight disease!

Tea - non decaffeinated

Can have varied effects in pets.

Tobacco        
Contains nicotine, which affects the digestive and nervous systems. Can result in rapid heart beat, collapse, coma, and death.

Tomato Leaves and Stems are dangerous, tomatoes are fine
Can cause problems with the digestive, nervous and urinary systems.

Vitamins made for human consumption that contain iron
Can damage the lining of the digestive system and be toxic to the other organs including the liver and kidneys.

Walnuts
Can cause gastrointestinal problems such as vomiting and diarrhea, as well as respiratory issues such as sneezing, breathing and coughing.

Yeast Dough - raw, not baked
Can be dangerous as it will expand and result in gas, pain and possible rupture of the stomach or intestines.

Xylitol

Xylitol is a sugar alcohol -- an artificial sweetener created from birch, raspberries, plums and corn.1 This sweetener is found in many human "sugar free" products, such as gum, candies and other sweets. Signs of toxicity can be seen as quickly as 30 minutes after xylitol ingestion in dogs. The xylitol causes a rapid release of the hormone insulin, causing a sudden decrease in blood glucose. The following are symptoms of Xylitol poisioning: vomiting
weakness, ataxia (uncoordinated movements), depression, hypokalemia (decreased potassium), seizures, coma, liver dysfunction and/or failure. Ingestion can be fatal.
 
If You Think Your Dog Is Suffering From Poisoning (food, chemicals, insect/snake bites)

The following provides a list of some of the interventions that they may ask you to do, they may also request that you bring your dog in ASAP.

To induce vomiting, give your pet 3% Hydrogen Peroxide (1 tablespoon per 15 pounds of the dog’s body weight) with an eye dropper, syringe, or turkey baster by dribbling the liquid onto the back of his tongue or into his cheek pocket until swallowed. Collect any vomit and take it, along with the poison container or other substance that you think you dog may have ingested and take it to the veterinarian

To dilute caustic poisons such as pine oils, detergents, bleaches, and swimming pool chemicals, feed your dog large quantities of water, milk, or egg whites. Activated charcoal (or even burned toast) may be recommended to absorb insect repellents like DEET.

To remove absorbed poisons...absorbed poisons are substances that get on your pet’s paws and coat and are absorbed through the skin. Road salt is one of the most common of such substances and can cause serious and lethal damage over time. Remember your dog walks, on lies on and licks the floor - don't use chemical based cleaners to clean floors, other horizontal or vertical surfaces that your dog comes into contact with. Absorbed poisoning can happen through ingestion when the animal grooms himself. For oil-based toxins (petroleum products) use a gentle dish washing liquid like 'Dawn'. Dust or vacuum powdery poisons away because water can activate certain toxins. If the poison is in your dog’s eye, carefully flush the eye with water or a sterile saline solution. To remove toxins from a dog's paws you can use the following Foot Soak Recipe...

Warm Water and Iodine - Foot Soak Recipe, To Remove Toxins

Iodine is non-toxic for dogs (but should not be ingested, just used topically) and is anti-fugal and anti-viral. To remove toxins (road salt, herbicides, fertilizers or pesticides) from the surface of your dog’s paws - this soak can also be used to reduce itchy, inflamed, and other wise irritated paws…

• Fill the container you are using with warm water;
• Add enough iodine to make the water turn the colour of ice tea;
• Have your dog stand in or otherwise keep their paw in the the water/iodine solution for 30 seconds
• Then pat your dog’s paws dry.

‘Inhaled poisons’ include aerosol sprays, carbon monoxide, gases, and other fumes inhaled by your pet that you may not consider poison to dogs because you use them safely on a regular basis. Quickly get your dog into fresh air and administer Rescue Breathing if necessary.

For snakebites, carry your dog if at all possible, to prevent increased circulation of venom throughout his body via walking. Get him to an animal emergency centre ASAP.

For insect bites, administer 1 mg of Diphenhydramine (i.e. Benadryl), an antihistamine, per pound of your dog’s body weight—but do check with your veterinarian first. Applying a cold pack to the bite can alleviate swelling, but immediately seek professional medical help if you detect breathing problems. You can also wipe or spray the bite with Apple Cider Vinegar.

If you think your dog is suffering from symptoms related to poisoning from any of these foods, plants or chemicals call your veterinarian or contact a pet poison control centre right away.

Pet Poison Help Line 24/7 (800-213-6680)

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Whether you are experiencing dog behavior problems and would like assistance, or just want to bring your dog up to be a well-balanced canine -  I offer both a local and international service for people with one or multiple dogs. 

I work with all breeds - from small (i.e. Yorkie, Pomeranian, Chihuahua, etc.), medium breeds size (including Pit Bulls) and large breed dogs...

 

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