LoveToKnow Dogs:Custom General Dog Questions

Is your dog currently in heat? If you're not sure, check out our article on Dog Heat Cycle and Breeding. It lists the signs to watch for.

That said, if your dog wasn't in heat, she wouldn't have bred, so there would be no worries on that account. If she is in heat and the dogs did breed, there is a 50/50 chance that a litter could result. Dog DNA tests are designed to help sort out parentage, but your neighbors would have to test their male so his DNA could be compared to the resulting pups.

It might also help your position with the local authorities to take photos of the dog when it's on your property. This way there is solid proof of the animal running loose, and it's not just your word against your neighbors. The dog warden might then be willing to level a fine against your neighbors. People are often more cooperative when they find out ignoring the law will cost them money.

Thanks for your questions. - posted by:Kelly

Actually, I think raw hide chews are fine as long as they are carefully chosen and used under human supervision. Yes, it's true that a well-chewed hide can form a gummy lump that could possibly cause a digestive problem or choking hazard.

Typically, I recommend keeping two raw hides you can swap when one becomes too soggy to be safe. This way you can give it time to dry out again before giving it back to your dog. I also recommend purchasing "beef" hides manufactured in the US because they are generally of higher quality and prepared using a safer process than typically found outside of the US.

Of course, if raw hides still worry you, you might consider giving your dog a Kong instead. Kong Dog Toys are made from a very durable rubber compound that breaks down to fine particles that easily pass through your dog's system if he's able to actually chew the toy down that far. I give Kongs to my three Jack Russell Terriers, a trio of chewing machines if ever there was one!

If you'd like further information on raw hides, visit our article: Are Raw Hides or Beef Hides Chews Good for Dogs. Thanks for your question, and I hope you find this advice helpful. - posted by:Kelly

Actually, it's not uncommon for some dogs to retain some of their baby teeth as the adult ones come in. The problem is that crowding can affect the overall set of the bite.

Have you tried wiggling the puppy canines? This will help loosen them because they barely have any roots. Giving your puppy a very hard chew toy should also help work the baby teeth out. If need be, you can ask your vet to remove these extra teeth, but I would give these options a try first. You will likely save yourself a vet bill.

Thanks for your question. :) - posted by:Kelly

Personally, I have never found a brand of flea collar that proved useful. I have literally seen a flea crawl right under a fairly new collar and proceed on it's merry way.

I also haven't had success with some of the spot-on flea treatments either. They seem effective for about three days, and then the fleas are back. So, I'm still a fan of the old methods for flea control. The lawn should be treated with Ortho Liquid Sevin twice in the spring, about two weeks apart. The dogs get a good flea bath, the house gets thoroughly vacuumed to collect any eggs and we are usually in good shape for most of the summer.

Thanks for you question, and good luck with the battle against fleas! - posted by:Kelly

You'll find solid info on these issues and more in our Dog Health category. - posted by:Kelly

Thanks for bringing this topic up. Yes, Heartguard (ivermectin) can produce a dangerous reaction in some Collies, and Interceptor (milbemycin oxime) has also been known to produce a reaction in some Collies, although to a lesser extent.

I'd like to refer you to a study about drug sensitivity and Collies posted at the American Working Collie Website. Research conducted at the University of California Davis Veterinary Genetics Laboratory and Washington State University has identified a genetic defect within the Collie breed that allows certain drugs to build up in the brain. According to the report's statistics, only one in five Collies is free from the mutated gene that causes the defect and can tolerate these heartworm medications. Both ivermectin and milbemycin oxime are mentioned as problematic for dogs carrying the mutated gene.

The study mentions that the mechanism that leads to the toxic build up likely makes it possible for milbemycin oxime to also be dangerous for Collies with the mutated gene. Since most Collie owners are aware of the dangers of ivermectin, they generally avoid its use, never knowing if their dog actually carries the genetic defect that causes the problem. It's difficult to know how many Collies that have been given Interceptor (milbemycin oxime) as an alternative are actually free from the defect.

This illustrates how important it is for every Collie to be tested for the mutation so owners can be sure which heartworm medications they can safely give their pets. The test is now available through Washington State University.

Again, thanks for bringing up this topic. I'm sure many Collie owners and their pets will benefit from the info. - posted by:Kelly

Let me take this question by question.

First, dogs are sometimes aggressive towards mail carriers because they are strangers that regularly enter private property in order to do their job. Although the mail man has received the most publicity through the years, meter readers and package delivery personnel also receive the same greeting from dogs. The dogs are simply doing what they perceive to be their job- protecting the home.

On to your second question. There are approximately 157 dog breeds recognized by the American Kennel Club, with more rare breeds working through the process to become officially recognized. World-wide, there are at least 800 dog breeds recognized by a wide variety of dog clubs and registries.

Finally, your third question. Dogs chase cats mainly because they perceive them as interlopers on their territory. They smell quite different from other dogs, and this adds to a dog's sense of curiosity and aggression. Perhaps the biggest reason dogs seem to go after cats so often is that so many people own cats and dogs, so they come into contact quite often. That said, some dogs do get along quite well with cats, so fighting is not always a problem.

Thanks for your questions, and I hope these answers help you get a good grade. Be sure to tell your friends about the website! - posted by:Kelly

The Scottish Deerhound was bred to help hunt large game like deer and elk. However, it's no longer legal to use dogs to hunt animals with antlers in the United States. I'm not sure what the laws are in other countries.

I certainly appreciate the type of problem you have, and I think one of the best things you might do is contact your local division of natural resources to find out if they have any other recommendations besides deer fencing. You can discuss your idea to use a patrol dog and find out exactly where the law draws the line in your district.

Thanks for your question, and I hope you find a solution. - posted by:Kelly

I think if you give this some more thought, you'll agree that it wouldn't be good to leave a dog on it's own outside for three to five days. The weather could turn bad, another animal might steal the food, and the dog could die without fresh water. Some people have even been charged with animal neglect under similar circumstances. There are just too many things that could wrong, so you want to avoid this scenario.

That said, leaving your dog outside in your absence isn't the only option. You could leave the dog at a kennel while you're gone, or hire a professional pet sitter to feed, water and exercise the dog each day. Under these circumstances, you could make your choice from a wide variety of breeds.

Thanks for your question. - posted by:Kelly

I do understand your desire to have a pet to help keep you company, but this may not be the best time to take on responsibility for a dog. Going to school full-time and working while you do leaves very little time to care for a pet and train it. While you're out most of the day, your dog would be home alone, and this is an ideal situation. Also consider how much time you would be able to put into consistent potty training. What might start out as a wonderful relationship could quickly sour if you find yourself coming home to house accidents everyday.

My very best advice would be to hold off on getting a dog until you're finished with school. This way you'd have more time to devote to your pet. If you truly want a pet that doesn't mind being alone most of the day, you might want to consider a cat. Breeds like Siamese and Burmese are nearly as affectionate as most dogs, but they don't require constant attention. You might like to visit LoveToKnow Cats to explore the possibilities.

Thanks for your question. :) - posted by:Kelly

I don't know if any studies have been done on either of these topics, but you've probably heard the old saying, "Music calms the savage beast..." or something to that effect.

Although I don't have science to back up my opinion, I do believe that music can affect dogs similar to the way it affects people. Some music is naturally calming, some can be very agitating. I also believe that our dogs pick up on our own state of mind. If we're listening to music that relaxes us and makes us feel good, our dogs take a cue from our vibrations and settle down. Chalk it up to pack instinct.

As for watching TV, my dogs do seem to pay attention to shows that have other dogs in them. We've caught our Jack Russells staring at the screen when The Dog Whisperer is on, and they will occasionally watch parts of some of the televised dog shows. However, they couldn't care less about Dancing with the Stars, so I think they're just intrigued by seeing other animals.

Thanks for sharing your dog's habits with us. :) - posted by:Kelly

To the best of my knowledge, there are no racing competitions for Great Danes, although I invite our readers to correct me if they know of any. The main reason Great Danes are not raced like Greyhounds is likely due to the health challenges they face. As a giant breed, Danes are highly susceptible to joint problems, and the stress of racing would likely lead to arthritis and dysplasia. Danes are also more likely to suffer from heart problems because their size puts a great deal of stress on this muscle. In fact, it's one of the main reasons why Danes have shorter life spans than the average dog.

That said, if you'd really like an activity you and your dog can do together, why not check out basic obedience. There are competitions you can participate in, and your dog can even earn a title if he does well enough. Check with your local dog training facility to learn more.

Thanks for your question! - posted by:Kelly

First let me say that I am so sorry for your loss. Yorkies are one of those delicate breeds, and vets need to be very careful not to over anesthestitize them. Some vets opt to use valium and just a small amount of general anesthesia if it's truly needed.

Your Daschshund should have recovered from his anesthesia by now, unless he too received too much. If his current condition is more due to the procedure than grief over his lost companion, you can help him work the medication out of his system by taking him outside for walks. This will help clear his lungs. Coaxing him to drink extra fluids will also wash the medication out of his system. Offer him some chicken broth and see if that entices him to drink more.

Could your Doxie's condition be due in part to grief? Yes, especially since he can clearly sense you and your husband are grieving too. My best advice for all of you is to get out of the house as much as possible and take advantage of the warm spring weather. It will help you shake off the gloom.

I do hope your vet purchases a suitable Yorkie to make up for Becca, although she can never be replaced. Just make sure the new dog suits you before you accept it. You do not have to accept just any dog in this situation. I think you'll find our article on Potty Training Your Dog helpful when the time comes.

Thank you for sharing a very painful situation. - posted by:Kelly

You present a very good question, and one that I'm sure many owners have wondered about from time to time.

The answer really depends on your personal feelings and the surviving dog's temperament. Personally, I have always given the canine housemates a few moments to sniff their lost friend so they can understand for themselves in dog terms that their friend's scent doesn't smell alive anymore. I do believe they process this on some level, and I personally think it's better than leaving them to wonder what happened to their companion.

On the other hand, if the surviving dog is known to have anxiety issues, interaction with the dead companion may trigger a stronger response than if you had removed the body before the surviving dog had a chance to see it.

I encourage everyone to judge what is best in their personal situation. It is all part of the grieving process.

Thank you, and please accept my condolences if you have found yourself in this situation. - posted by:Kelly

Feists really can be quite a handful for anyone to handle. They are similar to Jack Russell Terriers in temperament, and while they are loving and amusing companions, they require a lot of supervision and exercise. In my opinion, they are well worth the effort you put into them.

My best advice in your situation is to enroll this puppy in obedience training as soon as she is old enough. If your disability doesn't make it difficult to take your dog for a walk or bend over to touch her, you can probably participate in the training yourself. If this isn't possible, some facilities will train your dog for you, and then work briefly with the two of you together so you can learn how to deliver the commands. It's going to be essential that your dog learns to obey you. You'll also want to keep several durable dog toys on hand to keep your dog entertained. I recommend black Kong toys because they stand up to a lot of chewing. I use them for my Jack Russells that happen to be little land sharks! You can rotate the toys so your dog doesn't become bored with them. A bored Feist will likely become a mischievieous Feist. You want to avoid this.

Exercise is going to be an issue because Feists love to run at full speed. Perhaps you can employ family, friends or a professional dog walker to take your dog out several times a week to help her burn off some of that energy.

All this said, I don't want to discourage you from keeping this puppy. Where there's a will, there's a way. I'm sure that with proper training, the two of you can develop a routine that works for you.

Best wishes for a long and happy life together. :) - posted by:Kelly

This is such a personal decision that I can't really tell you what to do, but I can offer some points for you to ponder as you weigh this decision.

First of all, how do the dogs seem to you? Are they overly anxious and clingy when you get home, or are they just naturally happy to see you and they settle down after they're exercised? Do you notice any destruction around the house. If your dogs are suffering any anxiety from hanging out together by themselves while you're at work, you should see some telltale signs.

Second, how much of a burden has their care become for you? You certainly gave these dogs a home with the best of intentions, but if the demands of your job have increased and look like they're going to stay that way, it's understandable that you might need to re-evaluate the situation. Certainly the dogs would be better off with you than in a shelter, but that doesn't mean that you can't search for another loving person to adopt them if you really feel the need.

All things considered, keep in mind that dogs are pack animals, and these two still have each other for companionship when you're away. That's definitely better than a single dog left by itself. You've also been very responsible about having someone walk them when you can't be there to do it yourself. Many people that have demanding careers handle the situation this way.

I hope these thoughts help you figure out the best thing to do for your dogs. You don't need to make an immediate decision, so take some time to think about it.

Thanks for sharing your situation. - posted by:Kelly

The instinct to howl is a pack behavior inherited from your dog's wolf ancestors. In a pack, the wolves would howl to keep in touch when they were separated. They would also howl together as a pack to lay claim to their territory; think of it as an advertisement to their claim. It's meant to warn off competitors, and when they howl in unison, it gives those would-be competitors a better impression of their strength.

The sound of a siren is very similar to the sound of a howl, and that's why our dogs respond in kind. The dog's howl might mean, "Hey, I'm over here", or it could mean. "This is my ground so keep away". Either way, this is basically why dogs howl.

Thanks for your question. :) - posted by:Kelly

This is a good question. Traditionally, puppies used to be vaccinated against rabies at the age of six months, but now veterinary guidelines recommend puppies receive the rabies vaccine at four months old. This initial vaccination should provide protection for one year. After that, the frequency of boosters depends on which type of booster your vet uses, either a one-year or three-year vaccine. Your local laws also plays a dominant role in this scenario because most states require dogs to receive a yearly rabies vaccination.

Your vet will certainly know what your states requires, so follow his/her recommendations on the schedule.

Thanks for your question. :) - posted by:Kelly

I'm not a vet, but I will do my best to address your concerns.

First, let's talk about the vaccination. It's possible that your dog's booster could have instigated the original seizure if it happened soon after your dog received the shot. Was your dog given another booster before the onset of the latest round of seizures? If not, I would tend to doubt that the vaccination was the current cause. It would be rare for your dog to have another reaction to a vaccination that was given as long ago as six moths ago.

If this is indeed epilepsy, it is not curable, only treatable, and your dog would need to remain on medication to control the seizures. If you wean the dog off the phenobarbital and he has more seizures, you will know that the vet at the animal hospital made the correct diagnosis.

Should you vaccinate Vega for distemper anymore? This will have to be your decision. Unless your municipality has regulations on boosters other than rabies vaccinations, you are not required to give your dog yearly boosters. Your main consideration is how often your dog comes into contact with other dogs. If Vega and your puppy mainly stay at home, you may be able to refrain from giving Vega more boosters. It's risky, but it's a weighed risk against Vega's medical condition. However, I believe that it would be alright to have Vega's puppy properly vaccinated. If the puppy has a reaction after the first booster, you will be able to discuss with your vet whether it would be wise to continue with the series.

Now, let's talk about Vega's seizures. It is important to keep the children away from him during and after the seizure until he seems like his normal self again. Hopefully you won't have to deal with this if Vega is kept on the medication. In a confused state, it's possible Vega could harm these small children, but I don't believe it would be intentional. He's quite a large dog in relationship to the size of your children, so they could be hurt if he thrashes, and they could be bitten as he gnashes his teeth. You're right to be concerned for their safety, but I think the situation is manageable if you don't leave the dog alone with the children. This way you're there to remove them from the situation should Vega go into a seizure.

As for how to take care of Vega in the aftermath of a seizure, I think you will find the following articles useful for understanding what causes seizures and how you can help your dog's blood sugar to return to normal levels to stave off repeat seizures.

• Canine Seizures
• Canine Epilepsy

I hope that you find these thoughts and suggestions useful for helping Vega. Since you've received a different diagnosis from two vets, it may be good to get a third opinion from an outside vet to help you decide which vet's advice to follow. You could also ask both of these vets to confer on your dog's seizures to see if they can reach a consensus on the best treatment method. After all, they should both have your dog's best interest at heart, and should be willing to cooperate to figure out what is best for Vega.

Thanks for your questions, and I hope this situation turns out to be manageable for you and your family. - posted by:Kelly

My experience has been dealing with the American Kennel Club (AKC), although there are other registries with different rules.

For the AKC registration, the parents must be registered themselves in order for the puppies to be eligible for full registration. If the breeders actually have initial registration papers on the mother and father that were never sent in, they would need to do so first. When those two registrations come back (providing they are accepted and approved) the breeders will next have to fill out a litter application. If the application is approved, each puppy will be issued a litter number and registration slip that needs to be completed and turned in to AKC with the proper fee for that puppy to receive full registry.

As you can see, it all hinges on your breeders following through with their own paper work before you can receive your puppies' litter numbers to complete their own registration. If the breeders don't follow through, you might want to try to apply for ILP numbers with the AKC. This is not the same as a full registration and the priveldges that go with it, but it is an alternative. For more information, visit AKC.org.

Thanks for your question, and I hope your breeders are willing to work the situation out. - posted by:Kelly

Dogs are certainly interesting, aren't they? My hunch is your dog is trying to tell you something. Perhaps she's trying to share something tasty with you? She seems to enjoy the bone, so maybe she thinks you'll like it too. Since she seems satisfied after you pretend to chew it too, maybe this is the answer.

On the other hand, she may simply be signaling that she's finished with her treat for now and is ready for you to put it away for safe keeping.

While the behavior is a bit unusual, I don't think there's anything odd going on. Just view it as a very cute personality quirk and enjoy your wonderful dog!

Thanks for your question. - posted by:Kelly

A dog's nose is highly sensitive and can detect smells the human olfactory symptom would never be capable of. In fact, dogs depend more on their sense of smell than their eyesight. Dogs can smell the tiniest skin cells shed by a person, and can pick those smells out of thousands of other scents if it happens to be the scent they are interested in. Dogs also sniff each other as a means of identification. Each dog's scent is unique, a type of calling card. Dogs check each other out when they meet so everyone is sure of who is who.

Interestingly, some dogs have a superior sense of smell even amongst their fellow canines. Generally speaking, dogs with longer muzzles have a bigger olfactory system than dogs with flat faces like the Pekingese. Wrinkly dogs like Bloodhounds and Bassets catch scents in the folds of their skin that are funneled up to the nose. This gives them a distinct edge in scenting over many other dogs.

Thanks for your question. :) - posted by:Kelly

I really feel for you. I can't imagine my life without dogs arounds.

To my knowledge, there is no such thing as a completely hypoallergenic dog. Science has found a way to breed hypoallergenic cats, and hopefully that technology will one day be extended to dogs.

Until then, there are a few breeds that many people with allergies find they are able to tolerate. Shih Tzus are one such breed, and Lhasa Apsos are another possibility. Poodles also seem to cause less reactions.

The best advice I can give you is to visit breeders with these breeds and spend time with the dogs to see just how much of a reaction you have. Bear in mind that the dander from multiple dogs will be more difficult to deal with than the dander from one dog. If your reaction isn't severe, you may be able to manage your allergy with a combination of medication and cleaning techniques. Visit our article on Dog Allergies for more tips.

Thanks for your question, and I hope you're able to work it all out so you can have a dog. Best of luck! - posted by:Kelly

The only registry I am familiar with using is the American Kennel Club. According to AKC procedures, if the bitch and stud are registered with AKC at the time of the breeding, the pups are eligible for registration too. You simply contact AKC for a litter application, fill it out and submit it with the fee. Once the litter application is approved, you'll receive a litter number for each pup in the litter, and you can use this to obtain full registration of each pup or pass it along to whoever adopts the puppies and they can pursue registration themselves. If your dog is registered with another club, you should contact them directly for directions.

Now I'd like to add a word of caution about breeding your bitch at her age. One year old isn't quite old enough to breed a Boxer bitch. I would give her more time to mature and wait until she is closer to two years old.

Thanks for your question, and I hope you're able to work it all out. - posted by:Kelly

I'm assuming you're talking about the fur on the paws and around the mouths? This can sometimes be caused by the dyes used in dog food. A dog's saliva can also stain fur red. The red color is due to the bacteria in the saliva. It's deposted every time your dog licks his chops or his feet. One further note, excessive paw licking can be a sign of a yeast infection. If you notice any of your dogs' paws become swollen or irritated, ask your vet to take a look at them.

Thanks for your question. :) - posted by:Kelly

Did you actually go to the breeder's home to purchase your puppy, or was it purchased over the Internet? Either way, you could try locating the nearest kennel club to the breeder's residence to see if they have heard of the breeder and have any info to share. Most kennel clubs are very aware of any unsavory breeders in their region, and will usually warn you away whenever possible, although they have to be careful in what they say to avoid libel.

Since you aren't currently experiencing any health or behavior problems in your new puppy, hopefully all is well.

If you haven't already checked them out, I'd like to refer you to the following articles.

• Puppy Mills
• Pet Shops and Puppy Mills

Thanks for your question, and best wishes for your puppy's long and happy life. - posted by:Kelly

Let me commend you on considering adopting a dog. It's heart breaking to think of how many dogs don't have a loving home to call their own.

I can't be sure, but I think it's a Golden Retriever mix, possibly part Lab or Collie. She sure is cute though, isn't she?

You may not be able to find a dog exactly like her, but you'll probably find many wonderful dogs once you begin visiting shelters. Best of luck in your search, and I hope you find a terrific companion. - posted by:Kelly

I don't have any statistics on how accurate the Dog DNA Test is, but for what it's worth, Metamophix supplies the AKC with the test kits too. I suppose there must be a certain margin of error, and of course, the test kits must be labeled honestly and accurately at the point of collection. The tests are also not conclusive unless a dog displays genetic traits of any of the 38 breeds the test is currently developed for.

Have you read our interview on the Dog DNA Breed Test? We provide a direct link to Metamophix, and I believe they may be able to tell you the current accuracy percentage rate.

Thanks for your question. :) - posted by:Kelly

Yes, this is a real breed, but it's quite rare. The only club that currently takes registries is the National Kennel Club. It is not currently registered with the AKC Foundation Stock Service, the home for rare breeds in development at that club.

The breed nearly became extinct at one point, but dog lovers began a concerted effort to save the bloodlines by only breeding these dogs with other Native American Indian Dogs. No more out crossing.

There seems to be an Native American Indian Dog organization, but I was unable to find a website for it. You could try contacting the National Kennel Club for more information.

Good luck in your search. - posted by:Kelly

I understand what you're saying about wanting a small dog, but not a Toy dog. Many of the Toy breeds have fine bones which make them a little more delicate. It is possible to find a small yet sturdy dog, even in the Toy group, but you can look at other types of dogs too. Here are a few recommendations for you to explore.

• Shih Tzus
• Dachshunds
• Miniature Schnauzers
• Boston Terriers
• West Highland White Terriers
• Pugs
• Cavalier King Charles Spaniels

That should be plenty of smaller breeds to help you narrow down your search. Thanks for your question and good luck! - posted by:Kelly

If you're looking for a material that will provide security as well as privacy and added shelter from the weather, I'd suggest going with a concrete block wall. Be sure to use a concrete sealer on it so that no urine is absorbed to create an odor problem. This will aid in cleaning, and the sealer should be reapplied once a year.

Thanks for your question. - posted by:Kelly

There are three basic layers to dog teeth. The outer layer is enamel, and it is very hard. The next layer beneath that is called dentin. This substance is similar to bone, but it's not quite as hard. Inside the dentin is the pulp that contains the nerve of the tooth.

Thanks for your question. If you'd like to learn more, you might enjoy reading our article about A Dog's Teeth. - posted by:Kelly

Before you consider this pairing, I'd like to give you a little more insight on Jack Russell Terriers. I own three myself, so I can speak from experience. JRT's are delightful, but they are also an incredible handful. We refer to them as land sharks in our household because they are such chewers. They are also not bound to the laws of gravity that we "mere mortals" are. Try as I have, my JRT's know no bounds, and can get over any gate or chew their way through it. Set up any roadblock you like, and you can literally watch JRTs think their way through it and then go for it. They are extremely smart, but also very determined to do what they want to do. They don't mean any disrespect, they just seem compelled to carry on. In over 25 years as a dog owner, I have never experienced anything like it.

Even though they are a challenge, I have to say that they are also wonderfully affectionate and devoted companions. What you have to decide is if you are up for this big of a challenge yourself. It sounds like you have a very nice relationship worked out with your current dog, and a JRT puppy will certainly bring a whirlwind of activity into your home. There's no way to predict how your Siberian will react to the puppy until you can see them in action together.

If it were me, I would tend to look at another Siberian as a companion for your first dog. They would be well matched in size and temperament, and this might make for an easier transition to a two dog household. However, if you relish adventure, a JRT will deliver.

Thanks for your question, and best wishes whatever you decide to do. - posted by:Kelly

Although you've been descriptive, it's difficult to make a guess without seeing a photo. Chows have very thick coats, so what is her coat like? She could be a Chow/Lab mix, but that is the thing about mixed breeds; they can wind up with any combination of traits from both parents, and even litter mates can look quite different from each other.

If you really would like to have a better idea of what your dog has behind her, you might consider having a Dog DNA Test done. Metamophix can current identify about 38 specific breeds. If you check out the article in the link I've provided, you'll find a link to the company's website for more info. The test runs about $65.00, and it can only identify certain breeds if they show up in your dog's DNA.

Thanks for an interesting question. - posted by:Kelly

I can only speculate, but I think your dog treats the toys like a child would treat a Teddy bear. He enjoys having something to hang on to, a little added security. The fact that it carries the scent of one of the people he loves probably provides additional comfort.

It sounds like your dog leads a good life, so I don't think this is actually a behavior problem. Some dogs can become quite neurotic about their "special toy" and be very possessive of it. From what you're describing, your dog simply discovered he liked having a stuffed animal.

Perhaps you should actually buy your dog a stuffed animal or two of his own? This might make him less prone to adopting your sister's toys. Some pet supply stores will actually let you bring your dog in with you, and you could show him several toys and let him try to pick one out. If you rub it against your clothing, it will pick up your scent, and he should enjoy that very much.

Thanks for your question. :) - posted by:Kelly

Good question, but difficult to answer. Dogs have far more acute hearing than humans, so it's possible that your dog can hear distant sirens or another dog howling. This would inspire him to join in.

The quality of your dog's howl might also give you some clues as to why he's doing it. Are the howls short and sharp, more of a yelp? At ten, your dog may experience some joint pain that bothers him when he changes position.

Is this behavior a recent development? If so, it may indicate another type of medical problem in development. Sudden behavior changes are worth having investigated by your vet.

Thanks for your question, and I hope your answers to my own questions give you some direction about the cause behind the howling. - posted by:Kelly

Let me direct you to our article about the American Kennel Club. It has lots of good info to get you started.

Once you're finished with that, you might also like our article on AKC dog shows.

Finally, if there's more you want to know, AKC has a wonderful website with plenty of info about the club, as well as just about anything you'd like to know about different dog breeds. You'll find them at akc.org.

Thanks for your question :) - posted by:Kelly

I love Chihuahuas myself, and own a couple of champions. These dogs are truly devoted companions, not to mention they are completely adorable.

The Chihuahua is not a descendant of the fox, but rather some ancient Mexican breeds. I think you'll enoy reading our article on Chihuahuas. It contains info on their origins as well as their personality and trainability.

Thanks for your question. - posted by:Kelly

It's hard to say what woke your dog up and made her ask to be in her playpen, especially since you've had her back for two weeks now. I wonder if she slept in her pen at the pet sitter's house? If so, she may have become used to it, but still wanted to be close to you after your return. Perhaps now she is simply ready to sleep in her pen by herself? Your movements may indeed wake her up.

You can try the carrier option and see if it works, but there is no harm in letting your dog sleep in her pen if she wants to. The important thing is that she enjoys the space.

Thanks for your question, and sweet dreams to you both. - posted by:Kelly

Although you can never be sure how the dogs will get along until you see them together, here are five suggestions for you.

• Another Golden Retriever
• Labradors
• Labradoodles
• Standard Poodles
• Collies

There may be other breeds that would also work well, but these are the first that come to my mind. Good luck with your search. - posted by:Kelly

It takes someone like you who cares enough to contact the authorities. I still think you should call your local Humane Society chapter because I think they will move quicker than national.

You might also consider speaking with your local representatives. It would be a huge undertaking, but you might eventually get a real regulation regarding minimum shelter in place.

Good luck with your efforts. - posted by:Kelly

This is a bog change to ask a senior dog to make. If your heart is set on it, here are a few suggestions.

• Buy your dog a very nice dog bed. Make sure it is well padded so it's nice and comfy. I would even suggest you opt for an orthopedic bed that has a heating feature. This will simulate the warmth your dog is used to receiving from her former bedmates.
• You'll have to experiment with the best placement of the bed. If possible, you could place it in your bedroom so your dog still has some companionship. However, you may have to move it outside the bedroom if your dog insists on climbing onto your own bed. In that case, you will also need to keep your own bedroom door shut.

I hope you find these suggestions useful. Thanks for your question. - posted by:Kelly

Luckily, Golden Retrievers tend to be quite socialable in my experience. There is no reason to believe they would attack and kill a puppy, unless you dogs have already displayed aggressive tendencies toward other dogs. If they have, then you don't want to add another puppy to the household.

Now let me address the rest of your questions one at a time.

• Choosing a female pup would be fine if you planned to have her spayed at five months of age. This will prevent your males from breeding her if they haven't been neutered.
• You should introduce the new puppy to your older dogs on neutral territory, and be very careful about those initial interactions. You should also plan on purchasing a crate for the new puppy for times when you cannot be there to supervise the interaction between all three dogs. Eventually, you should be able to trust everyone together.
• As for your breed choices, I would remove Chow Chows from your list. They can be great dogs in a one pet home, but they aren't at their best with other dogs and can be a bit aggressive. Border Collies can be fantastic dogs, but I think this combination with your Goldens would add a lot of chaos to your house. I think either the Labradoodle or the Labrador Retriever would be your best choices for compatibility.

I would discuss all of these suggestions with your parents in order to arrive at the best decision. Good luck with your search. - posted by:Kelly

According to the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals website, they do not recommend leaving dogs out in temperatures below 20 degrees without proper shelter. That is as specific a recommendation as I have found.

Honestly, I suggest you call your local Humane Society and apprise them of the situation. They will keep your call anonymous, but they will investigate the situation and decide whether the dogs are adequately protected. They will also look at the condition of the dogs as well, and likely require your neighbor to clean them up.

Will this result in those dogs being moved to the kind of conditions you and I would like to see them in? Maybe not, but at least you'll know you've done what you could for them.

Thanks for your question. - posted by:Kelly

I suggest you take your cat with you to meet the new puppy to see how the situation might work out. You owe it to your cat to address its feelings first before bringing another pet home. If you truly believe the situation won't work out, perhaps it would be better to wait on getting a dog.

I'd also like to refer you to our sister channel LoveToKnow Cats. There's plenty of good information there that might help you with your cat.

Thanks for your question, and I hope things work out for the best. - posted by:Kelly

An Alaskan Malamute does have a bit of scent, so perhaps you should visit a breeder and spend some time with the dogs to see if the odor bothers your mom. Regular brushing and bathing will help keep the scent to a minimum.

Penning a Malamute in your kitchen is probably not going to be the best plan once the puppy begins to grow. An outside kennel would be fine as a part-time shelter as long as it is secure and provides adequate protection from the weather.

Thanks for your questions, and good luck with your search. - posted by:Kelly

Sounds like you're looking for the perfect dog. I'm sorry to tell that one doesn't exist. A dog only reaches its greatest potential as a show specimen, athlete or family companion through the hard work and consistent training provided by its owner.

That said, I recommend you check out AKC.org. Click on their link for breeds and spend some time browsing through the pages. They have images to go with each breed, and give size ranges in the breed standards. I'm sure you'll find a breed or two that catches your eye. Once you do, it's time to track down and visit breeders in person to see if these dogs mesh with your family's personality.

Good luck! - posted by:Kelly

While there isn't an actual age limit for handlers, it's important that a child is old enough to understand and follow ring procedures. This is a curtesy to the other exhibitors in the ring so that no one acidentally trips over someone else or steps on one of the dogs.

I would suggest taking the child in question to the local kennel club or training facilities for some handling lessons with the dog before you enter a show. This way the child and dog will be better prepared.

Thanks for your question. - posted by:Kelly

I'm so glad your situation turned out well. In most cases our dogs know what to do, sometimes better than we do. :)

The best way to let the pups go is kind of like the difference between apples and oranges. Sending them to their new homes all in one day will leave your bitch feeling a bit at loose ends, but having strangers on the premisis everyday can also be upsetting. It's probably more important to let the new owners pick up the pups when they are able to spend the most time with them, such as on a weekend off from work. Bitches are very resilient, and usually get over the loss within a day or two after the pups leave.

Thanks for your question! - posted by:Kelly

Many breeders dock the tails because it makes it easier for the dogs to pursue vermin into their holes.

As for dogs that chase their tails and bite them, it can be a play habit, but sometimes it's related to irritation from fleas or anal glands.

Thanks for your question! - posted by:Kelly

I've been a purebred dog breeder for more than 20 years, but I've also owned a few mixed breeds in my day. I have to say that both have turned out to be fabulous pets. The key to choosing the right dog is to take your time finding a dog that you connect with on personal level. This is far more important than picking out the cutest puppy in a litter.

As for your question about shedding, there really are no dogs that are totally free of shedding. That said, some shed less than others. Poodles in particular are celebrated for how very little they shed, so if you don't mind haveing your dog clipped at the groomer every six to eight weeks, this breed might be an option.

Good luck with your search! - posted by:Kelly

I know that some people leave their dog at home while on vacation and hire a pet sitter to check on them twice a day. This may work out if you hire a reputable professional and get a signed contract stating your expectations and the sitter's obligations. Leaving the job to friends and family can become a little risky, especially if they miss a visit or two.

Yes, your dog will be affected by your absence no matter how well you plan for her welfare. Dogs do become used to our daily routines, and they miss us when there's an abrupt change. However, her reaction depends on how attached she is to you. Some dogs are more dependant while others are quite independant. Which category would you say your dog fall into?

Things might turn out alright, but personally I'm a little leery about leaving a dog unsupervised in the home for the better part of a week. If something does go wrong between visits from the sitter, there's no one there to help. In my opinion, it would be safer to leave your dog in a good boarding facility until your return. Many of these establishments offer supervised play time, as well as video cameras you can access online to check in on your dog. This might actually be a better option.

Thanks for your question! - posted by:Kelly

I think either a Standard or a Miniature Schnauzer might be a good choice for your family's needs. Although you mentioned you wanted a medium sized dog, Mini Schnauzers are quite sturdy, so they make good playmates for children. The Standard Schnauzer is the next size up, and makes a terrific and active companion.

Thanks for your question and I hope you like this suggestion! - posted by:Kelly