LoveToKnow Dogs:Custom General Dog Questions

You have a lot of questions, but this is a great place to learn the best ways to care for your dogs. Many people consider their dogs valued family members, so you are certainly not alone.

Let's begin with your question about feeding dogs. I believe it's important to feed a high quality, balanced kibble as the basis for a sound diet. However, selecting a great kibble is not as easy as it may seem because it's difficult to understand exactly what those labels are telling us. My rule of thumb is to stay away from brands (even famous and highly touted brands) that use corn or any kind of by-products as protein sources, especially if they are listed in the main ingredients. I also recommend staying away from brands that use preservatives such as ethoxyquin, BHT or BHA. These preservatives have been linked to cancer formation, so it's better to avoid that risk by avoiding these chemicals entirely. Vacuum packaging, freeze drying, and adding vitamins E and C are all safer ways of preserving food. Companies that use these methods of preservation also tend to ship their product sooner so it's fresher when you get it. You can check out our list of the Top 9 Healthiest Dog Foods for suggestions. There are probably even more brands that meet the criteria, so don't hesitate to check out the brands available in your area.

We do offer a list of the main foods you should not feed your dog in our article on Making your Own Dog Food, and chocolate is on that list because it can interfere with a dog's heart function if it receives too much. In fact, cooking for your dog is a great alternative to dried kibble if you can strike the right balance of nutrients. You can even cook a couple of time a week and serve kibble the rest of time. For veterinarian approved dog food recipes, I recommend The Natural Pet Food Cookbook by Wendy Nan Rees and Kevin Schlanger, DVM.

Snacks should be kept to a minimum, perhaps one small treat a day, and it should always be a healthy treat instead of empty calories. I like to avoid those processed treats as much as possible. A crunchy dog biscuit is good for the teeth, and my dogs also like carrot sticks. We offer a basic dog treat recipe plus some suggestions for creating different flavors.

Finally, about your female who is eating excessively and gaining weight. Honestly, I would have suspected that she was pregnant if you hadn't provided the information that she had been in heat in July and it's now November. So, what I recommend is that you ask your vet to give her a good physical to make sure there isn't a medical reason for her constant hunger and sudden weight gain. If the vet can give her a good bill of health, you can begin an exercise program of daily walks and begin reducing her food intake down to normal levels. This will be a gradual process so she doesn't suddenly feel deprived and starved, but you'll eventually have her back on track and healthy again.

Hopefully this has answered all your current questions, but I'd like to invite you to join our Dogs forum where you can get advice and answers anytime you need them. Thanks for visiting us, and I hope to hear from you again to let us know how things are going. :) - posted by:Kelly

First of all, congratulations on taking in that French Mastiff. I imagine that finding someone to adopt a two-year-old dog that is as large as he is was no easy task. Luckily you saw his potential, and he now has a home with you.

From what I've learned about this breed, they are very family oriented, and a bit protective of their family to boot. My first bit of advice regards your young son. I'm so glad your new dog didn't show any aggression, but my advice would be to never leave them together unsupervised until your son is older. I would give that advice regardless of the dog breed in question. Small children don't always realize if something they do is irritating the dog they are trying to love on, so some caution is in order just to keep both dog and child safe.

That said, it sounds like you are off to a good start. What I suggest you do next is enroll your Mastiff in obedience training right away. Even if he already seems to listen well, this is a very large animal, so you want to be sure he'll respond to your command no matter what type of situation comes up. Obedience training also creates a stronger bond between dogs and their people, so I can't recommend this training enough for laying down a solid foundation for a great life together.

That's about it for now, and your training instructor will likely offer more advice on anything that comes up in class. Thanks for your question, and I wish you all a long and happy life together. :) - posted by:Kelly

I think it would be best to speak with your vet and relay what happened before you attempt to give your dog another booster at home. A two pound pup is rather small, and I'm not certain whether doubling up on the vaccination would overwhelm her immature immune system. Better to check with your vet who is the real expert in this situation.

That said, were you giving the shot in the loose skin between the shoulder blades? If so, gently feel the injection site to see if there's a small lump. If you can feel one, chances are good that the vaccine was delivered and just a little leaked back out. Did the puppy jerk when you gave the shot? The wetness could have come from a push on the syringe as the needle came out of the skin. It's also possible that your puppy wet herself if she became frightened during the injection, but the wet fur from that would be down her legs, not between her shoulder blades.

Thanks for your question, and I hope this info is helpful to you. - posted by:Kelly

I have to be honest, I've never heard of this one before. It almost sounds like your dog thinks she is "feeding" her toy. Has she done this for long or is it a recent development? If it's new, was she in heat recently? If so, maybe it's related to mild false pregnancy symptoms.

All of that said, I'm not completely surprised that your dog invented this game to amuse herself. Wire Fox Terriers are smart as a whip and keenly intelligent (as most Terriers are). I have a Jack Russell Terrier that plays catch and fetch with her kibble when she gets bored. It's amazing how some dogs will create their own fun.

Anyway, your dog sounds adorable, and unless it seems like she is actually regurgitating her food, I don't think there's anything to worry about. :) - posted by:Kelly

When talking about dogs and internal parasites, you're usually talking about worms. However, there are other internal parasites like protozoa and other microscopic entitites that a dog can ingest that continue their life cycle inside of the dog.

And that is really how dogs most commonly get an internal parasite, by ingesting it. Worm ova are found in the dirt and in feces from an animal that has already been infested. A dog can ingest the ova if it eats contaminated feces, or it may ingest ova while grooming itself or licking another dog.

Heartworms are another type of internal parasite that spend their life cycle inside a dog, eventually clogging the respiratory system and causing death if left untreated. These internal parasites are transfered via blood, specifically when a mosquito bites an infected animal and then bites another dog. The microfilaria are delivered into the bloodstream, and the infestation grows from there.

Luckily, common worms like tape and round worms are eliminated fairly easily through several doses of deworming medication. On the other hand, heartworm infestation is far easier to prevent than it is to treat. In fact, the treatment is almost as dangerous as the disease, but at least a dog has a chance for survival versus dying with no treatment at all.

So, that is the basic info about internal parasites. Hope that answers you question. Please visit us again. :) - posted by:Kelly

By any chance, is it a foul fishy odor that you're smelling? If so, it could be coming from your puppy's anal glands. Four-month-old pups usually don't experience anal gland problems, but there is always the exception. If you feel brave enough, try to check the glands. They are located on either side of the dog's anus, and they normally feel like small, pea-size lumps. The feel larger when they have an overload of fluid, and this could be what you're smelling. It is distinctly foul.

If the anal glands don't seem to be the problem, check your puppy's ears. An ear infection can generate a foul odor. If your pup is spending a lot of time in the pool, the inside of his ears may be more moist than usual, and this combined with the warm enclosed environment creates the perfect situation for bacterial and/or fungal growth.

These are just two easy areas to check, but you may actually want to follow up with your vet for further investigation of the cause of this odor because it could be related to a variety of other health problems such as a thyroid condition for example. Better to find out what is going on as soon as possible because treatment is usually easier in the beginning before a problem becomes more advanced.

Best wishes for your puppy's health, and I hope you find this information helpful. - posted by:Kelly

Since I'm not a vet, you should give your own vet a call to find out if there's anything you should for your dog at this point. That said, let me share my thoughts.

First, wax melts when it's warm, and a dog's internal temperature runs between 100 and 101 degrees F. So, I think the wax would basically melt and pass through your dog's system for the most part. This might result in soft stools or even diarrhea.

What is the most concerning is whether or not the candle contained any toxic scent oils. If it did, you'll definitely need your vet's help. Do you know what was in the candle? If not, is there any chance you could go to the store where you purchased it and take a look at the label on an identical candle? That way you could look up the fragrance oil to see if it is toxic. The label might even note whether or not the product is non-toxic.

For now, keep a close eye on your pet for anything unusual, and get in touch with your vet as soon as possible. Hopefully this won't turn out to be anything serious.

Best wishes for your dog's health. - posted by:Kelly

This is actually a great question and one that every dog owner ought to consider before making the decision to use a shock collar for training their pet.

It's my understanding that most shock collars are either waterproof or water resistant, and if this is true the dog should be alright if it jumps into the water while wearing the collar. That said, I think everyone should make sure that the collar they select is indeed labeled as waterproof, even if they think their dog will never have the opportunity to jump in the water while wearing one. You just can't predict everything that could happen.

Furthermore, it would be better to avoid training in areas with easy access to water. Some dogs do not react well to this training method even when the collar is used at the lowest setting. A shock collar is not suitable for all dogs, and could actually be harmeful to dogs that have fear and anxiety issues.

Finally, keep in mind that these collars are only meant to be worn during training sessions and taken off afterward. So, this will also reduce the chance that a dog jumps into water while wearing one.

Thanks for your question, and I hope this is the kind of information you needed. :) - posted by:Kelly

This is a rather tricky situation. Has this puppy spent anytime with its mother even if she hasn't been nursing the litter herself? There is a lot of crucial socialization that goes on during these early weeks, and it does have an affect on a pup's ultimate personality. If the pup was completely separated from its mom at ten days old, I would hesitate to bring it home at all.

I also would hesitate to bring home a six-week-old puppy. The breeder should be the person to finish off the weaning and make sure the pup has been vet checked, received its first vaccination and is ready to go to its new home. The fact that the breeder is now rushing you to take the puppy just a week after receiving your initial deposit is not a good sign. A responsible breeder probably wouldn't have taken a deposit on a litter that has been in a somewhat precarious situation.

Whatever you decide to do, I wish you the best possible outcome. - posted by:Kelly

I have to say that I tend to agree with your suspicion that Sasha is not a purebred Bichon. Bichons typically top out around 12 pounds, so Sasha will be almost double in size.

The breeder's failure to reply is typical for this kind of situation, and it's one of the main reasons I recommend that people try to work with a local breeder or make contact with a reputable breeder through a kennel club. Anyone can advertise anything online, and it's difficult to know if they're being truthful. However, I'm glad to hear you say that you love Sasha anyway even if she isn't purebred. She may not be exactly the dog your were expecting, but I believe she's the dog you were "meant" to have.

You can actually get a better idea of Sasha's heritage with a Dog DNA Test. There are a number of companies now offering test kits you can use at home to collect a DNA sample for analysis. All you have to do is swab the inside of the dog's cheek with a Q-tip, and then seal the Q-tip in the special tube provided. You can learn more about DNA testing in our interview on Dog DNA Breed Test.

I do want to offer a word of caution. Although I'm sure the labs try to be accurate with the results, there is always a margin for human error. I've had follow ups from other visitors who felt the results they were given couldn't possibly match their dog.

Whatever you decide to do about researching Sasha's heritage, I do wish you both a long and happy life together. :) - posted by:Kelly

In situations like this, the best thing you can do is alert your vet to the fact that you found an unusual lump beneath your dog's skin and schedule an exam. Sometimes lumps are fairly harmless, and other times they can be life threatening. Your vet will examine the lump to try to determine whether it's a simple cyst or some type of tumor. If it's a cyst, it can likely be drained and filled with medication to keep it from recurring. If it's a tumor, your vet will need to determine if it is benign or malignant. This is truly an area where you need your vet's expertise, so go ahead and make that appointment. Hopefully the lump isn't anything serious, but if it is, it's always better to begin treatment as early as possible.

Thanks for your question, and best wishes for your dog's health. - posted by:Kelly

One solution to the entire dilemma would be to consider having your dog neutered. This way, he couldn't sire a litter even if he did visit your neighbors' properties. You might also want to consider building an outdoor kennel run for your dog. Even if you have him neutered, he could still be injured if he travels away from your yard. Keep in mind, you neighbors may still be upset when he shows up even if he is neutered, so it's best to do whatever you can to keep him safely at home.

Thanks for your question, and I hope these suggestions help. - posted by:Kelly

This is a great question because it is one that dog owners need to think about well in advance of their trip. All dogs must have a health certificate from their vet before they are allowed to travel outside of the US. This certificate ensure the dog is up to date on its vaccinations, and that the last set of vaccinations were received not more than twelve months ago and not less that thirty days prior to leaving the country. That thirty day period before departure allows the vaccines to reach their full powers of immunity so your dog will as protected as possible.

There are two main resources you want to check with to see which vaccination are required. First, your vet should be a wonderful resource. In most cases, a DA2PP, a rabies booster and bordetella vaccination are enough. However, the country you plan on traveling to may have further requirements. Some countries may require your dog to be vaccinated against coronavirus, leptospirosis, lyme disease, etc. It depends a lot on which diseases are prevelant in that country. If you plan on traveling to more than one country, the list may be longer. Vets routinely ready dogs for travel, so your own vet may have a record of which vaccinations are required for particular countries.

Additionally, your airline company can offer a wealth of information about the preparations you'll need to make if you plan to fly with your pet. We have a couple of good articles on this topic listed below, but since there are so many variables and the rules change all the time, it's best to call your airline about sixty days before your planned departure to find out exactly what you need to do.

In the meantime, check out these travel-related articles:

• Dog Air Travel
• Pet Quarantine
• Dog Friendly Hotels

Thanks for your question, and I hope this information helps you get ready for a wonderful vacation abroad. - posted by:Kelly

First let me say that not all dogs have rabies. In fact, only a small percentage of dogs are ever exposed to the virus. The rabies virus is transmitted via body fluids. A dog or puppy can get it if bitten by an infected animal, or a puppy might receive the virus in utero if the mother was exposed late in the pregnancy.

Rabies vaccinations are required for all pups and dogs in an effort to prevent the spread of this dangerous disease that can spread to people if they are bitten. However, your question was whether a person needs to receive a rabies vaccination even if a dog shows no symptoms of having the virus. That's not an easy question to answer, and it's something your doctor should really answer for you. However, it's my understanding that a person would only need to receive the shots if he/she was bitten by a dog suspected of having rabies. In such a case, the animal would be quarantined to watch for the onset of symptoms while the person began receiving the series of vaccinations to protect his/her health.

Here are two articles I think you may find helpful:

• Rabies Symptoms
• Rabies Vaccine

The only other instance I know of where a person would receive a rabies vaccine as a protective measure is for someone that works with wildlife on a regular basis. My husband used to remove nuisance wildlife from people's homes, and he was vaccinated because he had to handle creatures like raccoons and possums on a regular basis. Luckily he was never bitten, but he was vaccinated just in case.

I hope this info has given you some peace of mind, but if you are worried you may have been bitten by a rabid puppy, call your vet and your physician right away.

Best wishes that everything will turn out alright. - posted by:Kelly

This is a good question, but not an easy one to answer. Although most breeds have a certain "type" of personality, each dog is an individual whose life experiences have influenced its personality in some way.

First off, you might want to consider another Cocker Spaniel since you enjoy your current dog so much. The dogs would match well in size and likely in temperament as well. This may be the easiest way to bring a second dog into your family pack.

Another way to get an idea of which breeds your dog may get along with is to visit a dog park with him. See who he interacts with well, and then visit a few breeders to see how well your dog does meeting them. Most breeders will allow this as long as you bring proof that your dog is up to date on his vaccinations.

Just keep in mind that no matter how well you prepare before hand, there will likely be some adjusting to go through once you bring your new dog home. While dogs often do well meeting each other on neutral territory, the situation can be quite different once you're in your dog's home territory. Still, if your current dog has been given time to get to know his new companion a bit before he has to live with him/her, the adjustment is usually easier.

Thanks for your question. If you'd like more feedback than this on breeds, I encourage you to post your question on our Dogs forum. I think you'll get a number of opinions there. :) - posted by:Kelly

Rabies is a very dangerous virus, so I think it would be best to follow up with your vet who is the true expert in this situation.

That said, I don't think you likely have anything to worry about. It's doubtful your puppy has been exposed to the rabies virus, and a dog has to actually have the virus in order to transfer it to another animal or person. The virus cannot be transmitted from a freshly vaccinated dog that otherwise has had no exposure to rabies.

So, unless you have reason to believe your dog was bitten by another infected animal, everything should be okay. I hope this info puts your mind at ease.

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

This is actually a very good question, and I entirely embrace the concept that there are no "stupid" questions. You are just trying to gain more information before you try out something new on your dog. That is actually a very wise thing to.

All of that said, I double checked with Wendy Nan Rees who provided us with the wipes recipes in her Two Minute Dog Advice column. Wendy says it is perfectly alright to use these flea and tick wipes at the same time. Just be sure that you do not use them around your dog's eyes and nose.

Thanks for your question, and I hope you'll visit us again. :) - posted by:Kelly

I'm fairly certain that you're observing spasms of the soft palate. The common term for this known as "reverse sneezing", but it's really not sneezing at all. Soft palate spasms are fairly common in small dog breeds, although any dog can be affected. These occurances look very dramatic, but I've never seen a dog harmed by one. The episodes are usually short lived.

It's not clear what triggers the spasm, but vets tend to think that irritating environmental factors like pollen and dust play a role. However, many dogs spasm after drinking water, so it's still not clear.

Although the spasm will end on its own, it's difficult to watch your dog go through one. There are a couple of things you can try to help your pet. Stroking the throat gently in a downward motion sometimes soothes the spasms. The method I've found the most helpful is to close my dog's nostrils with my fingers for a moment until she licks. This makes the dog swallow, and it often is enough to stop the palate from spasming. You may have to do it a second time, but it works faily well.

Thanks for your question, and I hope you find this info helpful. :) - posted by:Kelly

Some dogs just seem to love the taste of plants. We used to wonder why we lost the petals so quickly on our tulips. That was until I finally caught one of my Shih Tzus pulling them off to eat them. She just seemed to love the taste.

So, I looked up sunflowers, and according to the ASPCA website, they are not toxic to dogs, cats or horses. As long as you're not using any chemical products around your plants, it shouldn't hurt your dog to eat them. If she eats the seeds, the oil may even help her dry skin. You didn't mention how long your dog has been on the herring and sweet potato diet, but Omega-3 fatty acids are wonderful for coat and skin, and should help clear up your dog's dry skin issue.

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

Yes, the anal sacs can be surgically removed. This procedure is usually reserved for dogs that suffer from chroninc anal gland infections. The glands are located on either side of the anal opening, and both must be completely removed for the surgery to be successful. If any of the tissue is left, it will still produce anal gland fluid, and this can lead to recurring infections and incomplete healing.

Although a dog can live quite easily without these glands, the surgery can produce complications. In addition to the problems encountered when the removal isn't complete, the vet also needs to be especially careful not to damage the sphincter muscle. If that muscle sustains damage, it can affect a dog's ability to hold his stool, resulting in incontinence. For this reason, it's important to make sure the vet performing the surgery is very familiar with the procedure.

Thanks for your question, and I hope you find this info useful. :) - posted by:Kelly

This is an interesting problem, and there are two things I want to cover.

First, you'll want to rule out if this could be due to a physical problem. Shepherds are prone to hip joint problems that can make it uncomfortable for them to climb. Have you noticed if your pup has difficulty climbing stairs, crawling up on furniture (if you allow that) or any other difficulty moving? You may actually want to have your dog examined by your vet just so you can rule out this possibility.

Second, assuming your puppy gets a good return on the health check, how does he act once he is in the car and it's moving? Does he seem afraid? Most dogs that are reluctant to get in are usually uncomfortable when the car is in motion.

What I recommend is spending pleasant time in the car with your puppy while the vehicle is parked. You'll probably have to lift him in the first couple of times until he learns that being in the car can actually be pleasant. Spend time petting him and telling him how good he is, and do offer treats if he'll take them. This way he has good associations with the car. From there, you can try a short ride around the block. Park the car again and spend time praising your pup for being so good. After a couple of these short outings, you can increase the distance of the ride a little more. Hopefully these sessions will eventually make your puppy willing to jump into the car on his own.

Thanks for sharing your situation, and I hope these suggestions turn out to be useful for you. Best wishes. - posted by:Kelly

To me, it sounds like your dog may have a toe cyst. These are fairly common, but they can recurr if they are not treated properly. For whatever reason, the cyst begins to swell up between two toes, and the pressure can cause pain and limping. Eventually, the cyst will burst on it's own and drain blood and pus. Typically it will heal over on it's own, but the fluid and bacteria trapped inside cause the process to begin all over again.

Ideally, the cyst should be cleaned out while it it is still open, and then filled with a medication called Panalog, which I believe is now available through Petco or Petsmart. The Panalog kills the infection inside the cyst, and that usually ends the cycle.

Although I can't be sure this is what has happened to your dog, you might want to suggest this possibility to your vet and see what he says. If this is a cyst, the vet can open it, drain it and medicate it. Healing is usually very quick once the medication has been applied. The vet may choose to wrap the foot for a few days to keep your dog from licking it until it is healed over.

Thanks for sharing your situation, and I hope this info leads to the right treatment for your dog's foot. Please let us know when you find out what's going on. Sharing the info may help other visitors. :) - posted by:Kelly

This is a good question. Yes, you can use crushed granite gravel or pea gravel to create a sort of pathway where your dog already has a habit of traveling. However, many parks add a layer of decomposed granite over several inches of compacted gravel to create pathways.

The decomposed granite layer gives the path greater stability. Otherwise the gravel is more likely to be kicked around as the dog trots back and forth, and it is eventually spread into the surrounding yard. So, you wind up losing the definition of a nice neat path unless you plan to rake the gravel back into place occasionally. The decomposed granite stays in place quite well once it's tamped down, so it's typically worth the added work and expense to add a layer on top of the gravel base. This should eliminate the problem of a muddy pathway in your yard.

I would follow up this advice by calling a local landscaping company to get an estimate on how much material you'll need to create your path and approximately how much the project will cost.

Thanks for your question, and I hope you find this suggestion helpful. :) - posted by:Kelly

This is a sad situation indeed. Dogs are highly social pack animals, and I'm sure Toby really misses Cricket. His new living situation requires a big adjustment, and it will take some time for him to make it. Yes, it would be better if your ex would put Toby's needs first and let him live with you, but that's not likely to happen. All you can really do is try to keeps things as civil as possible and keep the invitation open to take Toby anytime in the future. There may come a day when your ex can no longer keep Toby, so just keep the lines of communication open.

I realize this probably wasn't the advice you were hoping for, but I don't think a legal suit would work out in your favor as long as your ex provides adequate food, water and shelter.

Thanks for sharing your situation, and you have my best wishes that everything works all for the best. - posted by:Kelly

Sounds like you've got a problem on your hands. I don't recommend that you leave the pup in the backyard all day. He could possibly dig his way out or find the same ways to reach the front garden as your adult dog uses. The constant crying may also upset any neighbors you may have, and it would also alert passersby that there is a dog in the back. For the time being, it seems that leaving the pup in the house if the better alternative, but I do suggest you confine him to a single puppy-proofed area for his own safety.

Have you thought at all about adding a kennel run to your backyard? A nice roomy, sheltered run could provide a safe enclosure for both your pets, and the puppy would probably be happier in the company of his canine pal. We have some good articles on Dog Houses and Dog Kennels on the site that you might it find helpful to research. I think this could be the ideal solution for your situation.

Thanks for your question, and best wishes. - posted by:Kelly

I think that's an excellent idea. Sometimes that extra smell of "home" can help a newly relocated puppy find it easier to learn to sleep on his own. The familiar scent, along with the fact that the toy provides something soft to snuggle up to, lends a small sense of security to a lonesome pup.

The only thing I would further advise is to be careful about the choice of stuffed toy. Not all children's stuffed animals are suitable for dogs, especially if the animal loves to chew. This can present a choking hazard. I usually recommend those artificial lamb's wool stuffed toys. They don't have any eye buttons or other accessories that a puppy might acidentally ingest. They are also washable, so you can eventually clean them when your puppy no longer seems to need the scent of his old pack and feels secure in his new pack family.

Thanks for your question, Kim, and best wishes for a long and happy life with your new pet. :) - posted by:Kelly

We have some good articles that should provide you with naming inspiration. I think you're looking for names that specifically relate to your dog's color, but don't limit yourself to that right away. You might find the perfect name that never occured to you before.

Check out:

• Choosing Puppy Names
• Clever Dog Names
• Girl Puppy Names
• Funny Dog Names

Back to the black/dark theme, here are a few to consider:

• Gothika (My son actually used this name for his black Guinea Pig.)
• Dusk
• Shadow
• Spirit
• Ebony

These are just a few suggestions, but you'll likely get many more if you post your question on our Dogs forum. I hope you'll visit us there.

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

What a great question. Honestly, I really don't think you can go wrong choosing between these two kinds of dogs for a future therapy dog. Each has its merits.

Collies: These dogs are thoughtful, intelligent and gentle. Their calm demeanor automatically puts people at ease, and who doesn't recognize Lassie? Collies are used in the therapy dog industry because they do so well in training, and their character is so reliable. These dogs were bred to be reserved yet cooperative with strangers, so they do not generally become stressed when being handled by people they've never met before. The only real drawback to choosing a Collie is that the breed currently has so many genetic eye problems. You'll need to make sure that the parents of the dog you consider have been tested after they reached two years of age, and that the puppy has had preliminary screening to try to detect any current problems.

Goldendoodles: If you're looking for a dog with the potential for therapy work that is also somewhat hypoallergenic, a Goldendoodle may just fit the bill. The combination of the Poodle's superior intelligence and the Golden Retriever's easy-going temperament and desire to please makes this hybrid a great candidate for therapy dog. Since Poodles don't shed, Goldendoodles shed far less than a Golden, and this tends to amount to less dander in the environment. It's actually the dander, not the fur, that triggers an allergic reaction.

Another thing that you should be prepared for is the amount of grooming involved with each of these dogs. They need to be brushed several times each week to keep them from matting. Of course, you could choose to go with a Smooth Collie to keep grooming to a minimum, and you could keep the Goldendoodle clipped to make the coat more manageable. Still, it's important to understand how much upkeep will be required before choosing one of these dogs as a companion.

I hope this is enough information to help you make an informed choice about which dog will best suit your needs for a therapy dog, as well as a lifetime companion. Good luck with your search. :)

- posted by:Kelly

I'm glad to see that temperament is your main concern. This is the single most important issue that affects how well a dog fits into a particular family.

Since you didn't list any other characteristics you're looking for, I'll try to give you some suggestions for a variety of sizes. Grooming and training needs will vary, but you can read about those in the accompanying article in each breed's link.

Small dogs:

• Shih Tzu - This breed makes a wonderful family companion; not especially yappy, yet playful, loving quite calm. Grooming is essential.
• Japanese Chin - This is another wonderful small dog that is known for displaying a great deal of common sense. These dogs are affectionate, but not needy. They are a bit lighter-boned than a Shih Tzu, so that is a consideration if you happen to have small children.

Medium dogs:

• Golden Retriever - Although a little more rambunctious as puppies, Goldens settle down to wonderful family companions. A well-bred Golden has a very even temperament and makes a trustworthy companion for children.

Large dogs:

• Newfoundland Dog - If you have the room to accommodate one, a Newfoundland makes an awesome family companion. These dogs have an absolutely wonderful temperament. They are loving, gentle and loyal, and they tend to watch over the children under their charge. They are quiet, only barking to alert you when necessary. As far as calm dogs go, a Newfoundland really sets the standard for other breeds.
• Saint Bernard - These dogs are similar to Newfs, but they do shed more and are a bit more active. Still, they are sensible and loyal companions.

Aside from breed considerations, you'll also want to think about whether you want to go through the rigors of puppy training or if an adult dog might better suit your needs. With an adult dog, you'll know what the animal's exact temperament is; with puppies you have to wait a while to see how they develop.

Although I've mentioned specific breeds, please don't hesitate to visit several shelters in your area. You may find a mixed breed dog with a wonderful temperament just waiting for the right home to adopt him or her.

Thanks for your question, and I hope you find this information helpful. You might want to post this question on our Dog forum to see if you get other suggestions for breeds that will suit your family.

Good luck with your search. :) - posted by:Kelly

There are many possible causes for a loss of pigmentation on a dog's nose. Sometimes a cut or scrape forms a scar that leaves a break in the pigment. In other cases, the lessened exposure to sunlight during the winter months leads to a temporary loss of pigmentation known as winter nose. Winter nose usually corrects itself as spring and summer sunlight becomes more intense.

Neither of these conditions are anything to worry about. However, sometimes a change in nose pigmentation or texture indicates a more serious underlying condition. Hypothyroidism is one condition that can lead to changes in skin pigmentation. A pigment loss can also be the result of an autoimmune response.

Since you haven't noticed any other adverse symptoms, hopefully the loss of pigment in the spot on your dog's nose is nothing to worry about. However, it might be safer to let your vet take a look just to be sure.

Thanks for your question, and best wishes for your dog's health. - posted by:Kelly

This is unusual. While McKinzie is staring at the wall, is she unresponsive to you? Does she respond when you call her, or does she seem like she's in another world.

I have two theories about what may be going on, but you will really need your vet to make a proper diagnosis if there's a medical reason for the blanking out.

My first thought is that there could be something living in the wall. My husband used to be in the nuisnace wildlife removal business, and sometimes raccoons, birds, etc., would enter the attic and work their way down into the walls. There could also be an insect infestation that your dog can actually hear or smell. While this is one possible explanation for your dog's concentration on that one spot, I'm not completely convinced this is the case.

If your dog is unresponsive to you during these episodes, it's possible that she's having psychomotor seizures. Rather than the rapid muscle movements associated with the typical seizure, psychomotor seizures result in odd, repetitive behaviors. Some examples are repeatedly barking at something that isn't there, walking repetitively in circles seeming unaware of anything else, and other similar behaviors. Staring unresponsively at the wall might be the way your dog presents during such a seizure.

My best advice is to let your vet know about the odd behavior and take your dog in for a physical. This could be the first step to figuring out what's really going on.

Thanks for sharing your situation, and please let us know what you find out. - posted by:Kelly

I can't say for sure about the seriousness of your dog's condition, but losing the ability to bark isn't completely normal. Some senior dogs' vocal chords do weaken over time causing them to develop a raspier sounding bark, and this is fairly common, but there are medical conditions that can affect the vocal chords.

These can include:

• Tumors
• Mini strokes that cause paralysis of the chords
• Heart conditions
• Thyroid issues

My best advice is to take your dog to your vet and let him/her examine your pet. The loss of barking could be a sign of a larger illness, so it would be better to understand exactly what's going on.

I also want to encourage you to post this issue on our Dogs forum. Other visitors may have experienced this issue and learning what their dog's diagnosis was might help you figure out what's going on with your pet.

Thanks for sharing your situation, and I hope this info provides some direction toward a diagnosis. Best wishes for your pet's health. - posted by:Kelly

There must be something about the scent of that can that is drawing Buddy to it. Maybe there's no food in it lately, but is there a possibility there was at some point? If so, the can may need to be washed out with soap and water to remove any trace of food that could be left. Hopefully this will put an end to Buddy's marauding. If not, purchasing a brand new can with a snap tight lid may be another good solution.

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

So, you're looking for a long-haired little dog that's easy to carry along with you. I have a couple of suggestions for you.

• Yorkshire Terrier
• Maltese
• Long-coat Chihuahua

The Yorkie and Maltese are very similar in size and temperament. The real difference is in their coat texture and color. The Yorkie coat is far easier to care for than the Maltese which tends to mat a lot. If you want the look of a longer coat without so much maintenance, I'd suggest checking out the Long-coat Chihuahua. They are simply adorable and enjoy close companionship with their people.

Of course, these are expensive breeds we're talking about, so you'll need to discuss that fact with your parents when you ask them about getting a second dog. Although you seem to have a solid idea of what you're looking for, don't be afraid to visit at least one shelter to see if there might be a little dog there who really needs you. Sometimes our pets choose us instead of the other way around.

Good luck with your search. :) - posted by:Kelly

It's always best to consult your vet about these matters. Your dog should be checked for heartworms first before you begin putting her on a preventative. Once that's done and she comes back clear, you can begin the preventative treatment.

It's difficult to find a single preventative that is effective against fleas, ticks and heartworm, but there is a product called Revolution that is designed to protect against all three types of parasites. It's also supposed to be effective against the flea's eggs as well as mites, hookworms and round worms. The active ingredient in Revolution is selamectin. It would be a good idea to discuss this ingredient with your vet to find out what, if any, type of reaction it is known to produce in dogs.

I haven't tried Revolution on my own dogs, so I can't give it a personal recommendation. However, the product information looks promising and many dog owners seem to be using it so you might want to consider it.

You might also want to post your question on our Dogs forum to see if anyone else has another suggestion.

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

How exciting that you're thinking about getting your first dog. They really do make wonderful companions. First, let's talk about temperament because that is most important. You say you want a dog that's friendly with people and other pets. Most dogs are quite friendly if they are raised well and given structure. It's important to follow through with obedience training because this puts you in the pack leader position. Dogs are pack animals at heart, and if you don't provide calm assertive leadership, they will naturally try to take over the position. That is usually when behavior problems crop up.

As for getting along well with other dogs, it's important to first choose a puppy that spent a full eight weeks with its litter mates. This early socialization teaches the pups how to get along with other dogs in a pack situation. After that, a puppy will be better equipped mentally/emotionally to get along with any other dogs in the home. Getting along with cats and other pets is more of a challenge, so introducing the pup to these other members of the home early on usually produces the best results. Just remember that every dog is an individual, and can have his own personality quirks.

Now for some breed suggestions. You didn't mention anything about size, so let me give you a suggestion for each size range.

• Small: Beagle
• Medium: Labrador Retriever
• Large: Great Dane

In addition to those breeds, be sure to take some time browsing through our Dog Breeds category. We have quite a few profiles and pictures, and I think it would help you decide on a few more breeds to check out closer. The Choosing a Puppy Quiz at the top of this page will also help you learn how to spot a healthy puppy when you finally begin visiting breeders/shelters.

I think this will be enough information to help you begin your search. It might also be a good idea to post your question at our Dogs Forum where you'll get even more suggestions.

Thanks for your question, and let us know which kind of dog you decide on. Good luck! - posted by:Kelly

I'm sorry to hear about the situation you find yourself in. LoveToKnow is simply a resource for information; we don't perform DNA tests. However, we do have a couple of articles that you'll find useful. Check out:

• Dog DNA Test
• Dog DNA Breed Test

I do know of several companies that perform DNA testing, but I can't vouch for their accuracy. I'll give you the names and links to them, but I suggest you forward them to your insurance company to make sure one of them is acceptable before you pay for the kit.

Check out:

• Wisdom Panel
• Vet DNA Center
• Metaporphix

Thanks for your question, and I hope the test works out in your favor. - posted by:Kelly

I have a couple of suggestions for you, but finding a dog that completely fits your criteria is a very tall order. Here are a couple of breeds that I think you should look into further.

• Japanese Chin: These are small dogs that make quiet and loyal companions. Chins are known for having common sense and good manners, so they are relatively easy to train. They like to go for walks, but they really are not a rambunctious breed. There is some brushing involved in maintaining their coats, but it's very enjoyable. Their faces also need to be wiped occasionally with a pet/baby wipe to clean out the wrinkles around the nose and eyes.
• Chinese Pug: This is another relatively small breed that loves to be around people. These dogs are a little more active than Chins, and they make good playmates for children. There is little grooming involved, but again, their faces need to be wiped out each day to clean matter out of their wrinkles.

I think you might get even more suggestions if you posted this topic in the Dog Breed Central portion of our Dog Forum. People can share their first hand experience with their favorite breeds.

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

You really are planning to set off on an adventure, aren't you? Air travel with dogs is seldom easy, so you should begin planning about six months ahead of time. Every airline has requirements, so the best thing you can do is call American Airlines directly so they can help you coordinate it all.

In a nutshell, here's what you need.

• A health certificate from your vet- This will include making sure your pet is healthy enough for travel and up to date on her vaccinations. You'll need to have this attached to your dog's crate for the flight, and it must have been acquired no longer ago than ten days before the flight.
• You'll have to check with the airline about approved crates, but what you're looking for is a high density plastic travel crate. If you fly your dog in the cabin with you, you'll want one that is designed to fit under the seat with a door on the top for easy access. If you're flying your dog as freight in the cargo hold, I'd recommend a Komfort Pets climate controlled carrier. However, you'll need to make sure the company was granted the airline approval they were seeking. You can learn more about this crate by reading Best Dog Crate.
• You'll find a lot of info in our article on Dog Air Travel, but do still call your airline because the details do vary.

I hope this is enough information to help you begin getting prepared for your trip. I hope you have a wonderful time! - posted by:Kelly

I'm not a vet, so you definitely should bring this to the attention of your vet for further examination. It sounds like your dog may have an injection site granuloma. These lumps, caused by the immune system's reaction to the virus introduction, are somewhat common and usually resolve on their own within four to six weeks of their onset. However, a golf ball size lump seems a bit extreme for granuloma. Usually they don't get much larger in diameter than a quarter. Sometimes the injection can push a bit of bacteria beneath the skin, and this can cause an infection. This might be another avenue for your vet to investigate. The hair loss around the lump is likely due to injection site alopecia.

Subcutaneous rabies vaccinations are associated with granulomas more frequently than intramuscular rabies vaccinations. If your dog had a subcutaneous injection, it may be better to go with intramuscular next time.

To sum it all up, I don't think you should be too worried, but due to the size of the lump, I think it's worth taking a trip back to the vet.

Thanks for your question, and I hope you find this info helpful. - posted by:Kelly

I can't be certain, but it sounds like your dog may have a collapsing trachea. This is a fairly common problem in small dog breeds, and for the most part it is less serious than it sounds. Swallowing liquid seems to trigger the response, but it usually only lasts for a few moments. Trying to soothe the dog by gently stroking its throat and chest seems to help, but the problem usually resolves on its own very quickly. My Chihuahuas and Shih Tzus did the same thing at times, but it was never life threatening.

Since your dog is going to be spayed soon, it's still a good idea to discuss the drinking-triggered coughing with your vet to get his or her opinion about what's going on.

Thanks for your question, and I hope this information sets your mind a little more at ease. - posted by:Kelly

This is a great question, but a difficult one to answer because it depends on the genetics of the breeding pair. Black is the dominant color for Labs, so it is always possible for it to show up in a litter no matter the actual color of the dogs involved.

Labs have two sets of gene pairs. The first set determines whether the coat will be the dominant color B (black) or the recessive color b (chocolate). A dog that inherits two dominant genes, BB, will be black, while a dog that inherits two recessives, bb, will be chocolate. Now we have to consider that second set of genes that determines how those colors are expressed, in other words what you actually see as the coat color. If a dog inherits the dominant gene pair for expression, EE, it will have the ability to express the color black or brown depending on what the first set of genes indicate. If the dog inherits a recessive pair of expression genes, ee, it won't be able to express the black or brown color, and this produces a yellow Lab. Now we're talking in strict terms of either fully dominant or fully recessive pairs, but there are multiple ways these genes can pair up, and that is why dogs of one color have the recessive possibility to produce another color.

It gets rather complicated, but here's the easiest way to look at it. If you're breeding a chocolate and yellow together, it's still possible to produce any of the three colors depending on if and how those recessive genes pair up.

As for the age of the stud, it's quite possible he's still able to produce a litter as long as he is healthy. It would be a good idea to ask how long ago he produced his last litter, and you might want to request having a vet do a sperm count just to make sure his swimmers are indeed healthy and capable of fertilization before you lay out a stud fee.

Thanks for your question, and best wishes for a healthy litter no matter which stud you decide to use. :) - posted by:Kelly

There are muscles that run the length of the back that control piloerection. In layman's terms, this means raising a dog's hackles. This causes the fur in these areas to stand on end.

Piloerection is an involuntary reaction to a signal from the nervous system. It is often seen as a response to fear, aggression or anxiety, but it can also be caused by a chill or draft.

The fact that your dog is only raising a small portion makes me think this might indeed just indicate your dog is feeling a little chilly. However, there are also the weight loss and appetite issues, so it might be best to make an appointment for your dog to be examined by your vet. The vet will take all these symptoms into consideration while trying to reach a diagnosis.

In the meantime, it might not hurt to put a light doggie sweater or T-shirt on your pet to see if this stops the piloerection.

Thanks for your question, and I hope your dog recovers her appetite soon. - posted by:Kelly

As far as I know, no one is required to take out pet insurance. "Pet insurance" refers to a health insurance coverage that helps pay for certain veterinary care as defined by a particular policy. I think what you're referring to is a rider for your home owner or renter insurance policy in case your dog attacks someone while on your property. I did some considerable searching, but couldn't pull up anything specific to Lake County, Indiana. That doesn't mean there isn't an ordinance, but it may not currently be available online. My advice would be to call your local dog warden and ask if there is a specific ordinance for Pitbulls or a general category of potentially dangerous dogs. If the warden tells you there is, try to request a copy or ask where you can find it online and print it out. This way you'll know exactly what you're obligations are, and you'll how much coverage to request from your insurance provider.

Thanks for your question. I wish I had a more definitive answer for you, but hopefully this suggestions puts you on the right track. - posted by:Kelly

Some dogs do experience a temporary lightening of the nose pigment during the winter months, and this alone is nothing to worry about. Once the stronger sunlight of spring returns, you should begin to see the nose darken up again.

However, if there is a greater loss of pigment than what I've just described, it would be wise to consult your vet. A sudden loss of nose pigment can be a sign of an underlying, undiagnosed illness. If the pigment loss is drastic, and you notice anything else unusual about the texture of the skin or any swelling, call your vet for an appointment right away.

Thanks for your question, and I hope this is just a simple case of winter nose. Best wishes for your dog's health. - posted by:Kelly

I'm not a vet, but I think what you're describing sounds like your pet may be dreaming. This can result in short bursts of rapid breathing. Does this sound like what you're describing? You may also notice your dog's legs twitch during these episodes.

Although I think that's all it is, it might still be a good idea to call your vet directly and describe your dog's breathing during sleep. The vet may agree with me, but may also ask you to bring in your dog to check his breathing and waking heart rate just to be on the safe side. The vet may also want to keep your dog overnight on a monitor to track these breathing episodes in case they are some form of sleep apnea.

Thanks for your question, and I hope this turns out to be just a simple matter. Best wishes for your dog's health. - posted by:Kelly

Let me address these two issues separately. We'll begin with the tail docking. Docking is usually carried out before a puppy is five days old, and is often done at the same time the dewclaws are removed. There are a couple of reasons for this. First, the nervous system isn't fully functional yet, so the the pup feels only a momentary pain at the time of the procedure. I've been present when puppies have been docked, and they only let on a squeak at that age. They bleed very little, and usually just a little steptic powder, like you'd use for a nail clipped too short, is enough to stop the bleeding. The pup tends to go back to sleep and that's about all there is to it.

When docking is delayed as long as your dog's has, it now becomes a full surgical procedure. At three to five days old, the tail's cartilage hasn't hardened to bone, so it's easy to clip. On a four month old puppy, the tail is much harder, and the dog must be anestetized for the procedure. There is usually much more pain afterward, and the dog usually tries to lick and chew at the surgical site because of this. The dog knows very well by that age that it had a tail and suddenly it's gone. So, there's usually a psychological adjustment component to the recovery period as well, similar to how a person might react to an amputation. Basically what I'm saying is that you can still have your dog's tail docked at this age, but it's a far more traumatic procedure so you should consider it carefully before you make a decision.

As for cropping the ears, it's not too late. Just make sure that the vet you choose is very experienced at cropping and taping ears so the job is done right. Cropping does not ensure the ears will stand erect, and a bad tape job could prevent them from standing at all.

Thanks for your question, and best wishes for your dog's health. - posted by:Kelly

First, let me express my condolences on the loss of your cat. Losing a cherished companion is never easy.

You say you're looking for a small dog. Since you didn't give any other specifics, I'll just offer some suggestions for easy-to-care-for breeds that are relatively easy to train. Keep in mind that a puppy requires greater care and training time than an adult dog. Sometimes breeders have broods they would like to retire, and these dogs can make excellent companions if they have lived directly in the family home. Rescue centers also have adult pets to place, but keep in mind that many of these dogs need a bit of rehabilitation, so it depends on how much time and energy you have to give.

All of that said, here are a few breeds you might want to consider.

• Boston Terrier- Affectionate and playful; easy care coat
• Toy or Miniature Poodle - Intelligent, cooperative and devoted. This breed requires quarterly trips to the groomer plus some brushing in between, but these dogs are worth it.
• Rat Terrier - Smooth short coat, intelligent and eager to please

Keep in mind that every dog is an individual, and most breeds have health issues you should be aware of. Click on the highlighted breed name for an article on that dog. You'll also find articles and pictures of many dog breeds in our Dog Breeds Category.

I hope this gives you enough information to get started. Visit as many breeders and shelters as you can so you can get a feel of which dog is right for your situation. You may just find that the right dog winds up picking you.

Good luck, and let us know how your search goes. :)

- posted by:Kelly

I think you're wise to put greater stock in your personal observations rather than what you've heard from others. Havanese are very alert little dogs, and they will sound the alarm when they feel it's necessary. Although a pack of dogs is bound to bark more than a single pet because they are reinforcing each other, a single Havenese can still do a good deal of barking. However, these dogs are very people oriented and willing to please. If you purchase a young puppy, there's a good chance you could teach it not to be a nuisance barker. The trick is to distract the dog from barking, focus it's attention on something else so it is quiet and immediately reward the dog to reinforce the desired behavior. This will take repetition, and clicker training is a great technique to use.

Don't let this information discourage you from purchasing a Havanese, just understand that this will be part of the entire training program that will help your pet become a better companion. Good luck with your search. - posted by:Kelly

The decision whether or not to adopt a dog is a very big one, and it involves many factors. I'm not sure of your personal situation, so let me share some general thoughts, and you can use what you need.

Are you able to:

• Provide good food and water
• Suitable shelter from the elements
• Basic veterinary care, including vaccinations and yearly check ups
• Provide further health care if your dog suddenly became ill
• Spend adequate time with this dog and make it a part of your family
• Provide a safe area for the dog to exercise

As for the dog itself:

• How is it's health? Has it been examined by a vet recently? This is important so you can decide whether you're able to handle any health issues it might have.
• How is the dog's temperament? Is it friendly and fairly relaxed? Some Labs are quite hyperactive, and they can be difficult to train without a lot of work. Consider whether you'll have time for this.
• How does the dog react to the rest of the people who live in your house (if you live with anyone)? In essence, they will be adopting this dog too, so it's best to have everyone interact with the dog and make a group decision whether this is the right pet for your household.

These are the major considerations that most people think about when adopting a dog. There are many wonderful stories of adoptions that worked out beautifully, but others that were not so happy. Thinking it through thoroughly before bringing the dog home usually leads to the best result.

Thank you for a very good question, and I hope these thoughts provide you with the guidance you seek. Good luck! - posted by:Kelly

Honestly, you can never say that any breed or breed combination is hypoallergenic. The reason for this is that it's not the dog's hair that is the primary problem, it's the dog's dander that produces the reaction. There is a protein in dog saliva that is the real cause for the allergies. When a dog licks his coat, the saliva is spread over the hair shafts. The saliva dries and is lighter than air. When the dog shakes, scratches or is petted, these tiny flakes become airborn and are breathed in. For most of us, they cause no problem, but for someone with the allergy, the reaction can be mild to severe.

All of that said, have you discussed the possibility of getting a dog with your pediatrician? The doctor can give you an idea of just how severe your children's allergies are. If they are mild enough, they may be able to tolerate the presence of dog with just mild medication. If the doctor gives the okay, you'd want to visit a few Cock-A-Poo breeders with the children to see how they react to being around the dogs. You'll get a good idea whether or not the situation is workable from these visits.

There are a couple other breeds I'm aware of that don't seem to trigger allergies as readily in some people. Shih Tzus and Yorkies have silkier hair that doesn't seem to hold as much dander. No matter which breed you might choose, you'd still need to dust and vacuum thoroughly on a regular basis to keep dander from building up in your home.

I think you'll find the additional info in our article on Dog Allergies helpful.

Thanks for your question, and I hope you'll be able to add a canine companion to your home. Good luck. - posted by:Kelly

Are you talking about a gathering a DNA sample for testing? If so, you'll need to purchase a collection kit from the company of your choice. The kit will come with instructions and a sterile tube to enclose the swab in once you're finished. The procedure is fairly simple. Just swab the inside of your dog's cheek, and then carefully insert the swab into the tube and close it. Make sure the tip doesn't touch anything else. Label the tube as directed in the kit instructions, and mail it back to the lab in the packet provided.

That's about all there is to it. Hope this was the info you were looking for. :) - posted by:Kelly

This is actually a very interesting question that probably has more than one answer. On one hand, dogs seem to circle as they try to determine what will be the most comfortable position.

There's also a theory that the behavior is an old instinct left over from when dogs generally lived in the wild. They would circle around to pack the the grass and other ground coverings beneath them to make a sort of bed.

Those are the prevailing theories, but if any of our other visitors have other ideas, send them in.

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

At five-months-old, your puppy is likely teething, and it sounds like those top two incisors are coming out. I'm happy to tell you that this is nothing to be concerned about. It's perfectly natural, and it's better for the puppy teeth to come out on their own before the adult teeth move into place. This prevents the teeth from becoming scrambled.

Additionally, baby teeth have almost no root, so you might even be able to reach in and gently pull the loose tooth away if it hasn't already come out on it's own. The nerve of the adult tooth coming in behind it should be just fine.

Thanks for your question, and I hope this reply puts your concerns to rest. :) - posted by:Kelly

It sounds like your dog doesn't have the necessary endurance for a two-day hunt. The first thing I'd advise is to have your vet give your dog a thorough physical to determine if there's a medical reason for his lack of energy by that second day. If the vet doesn't find any significant health issues, you're free to move on to the next step.

You mention that you hunt on the weekends, but how much exercise does your dog get during the week? Taking your dog for daily jogs will help him build up the kind of strength and endurance you'd like to see in a good hunting dog, and it's a key part of an overall conditioning program.

You might also need to take a look at the kibble you feed. Sporting dogs need higher protein to help them maintain their energy, so you may need to gradually switch to another formula depending on what you feed now. You can also supplement your dog with some fresh boiled chicken and brown rice for added protein and digestible carbohydrates.

Finally, how well does your dog like being out with you in the field? If he's having a good time, he'll be more likely to want to hunt again the next day. If he seems stressed out or overly tired by the end of day one, you may want to quit earlier that day to save some energy for day two.

Thanks for sharing your situation, and I hope these suggestions prove helpful. :) - posted by:Kelly

First, let me say that it is very kind of you to give your handler a bonus. Not every owner does this, but I'm sure your handler would be touched by your thoughtfulness.

Tipping a dog handler is generally the same as tipping other people who provide you with a service, and 15 percent is the average. However, that's usually on a one time service, not an entire year's accumulation. That said, you still need to consider what you're able to afford, so keep that in mind when you decide upon the final amount. Again, I'm sure your handler will appreciate the fact that you wanted to acknowledge her service in a special way.

Thanks for your question, and I hope you have a wonderful holiday season. - posted by:Kelly

You're right to be careful about the kind of chew bones you give your Yorkies. This breed can be quite delicate, a fact that is often belied by their scrappy Terrier personalities. That said, I think you might want to try offering your dogs small Kong dental chews for puppies. Kong is made from a durable rubber compound that gives dogs a lot of chewing satisfaction. The puppy dental chews should be about the right size for your Yorkies, and they will actually help clean their teeth as they use them. Additionally, these chews have hollow ends you can stuff a milk bone into as a way to make chew time more stimulating. To view the chews, visit KongCompany.com. Select product, dogs, rubber toys, Kong dental, and you'll see it. I apologize for not being able to provide the exact page URL, but the site doesn't operate that way. There is also a link to a user guide on that page that provides more info about the product.

I have actually given Kongs to my Jack Russells, and they absolutely love them. JRTs have very big teeth for their size, so we have moved from the red Kongs to the black Kongs made of even tougher rubber. Still, it took a long time for my girls to wear out the red Kongs, so they should work well for your Yorkies. Kongs are typically available at most pet supply stores if you want to save on shipping.

Thanks for your question, and I do hope you find this chew toy fits your dogs' needs. - posted by:Kelly

Thanks for keeping in touch, and I'm glad you found my previous advice comforting. Only you and your husband can truly judge if you are ready to bring another dog into your lives at this time. If you feel you are ready to take on the responsibility of training a new pet, be it a puppy or an adult, you might want to begin searching. I recommend that you visit more than one breeder or rescue shelter. This experience will surely help you decide if the time is right to adopt again. By visiting more than one place, you'll meet a number of dogs, and hopefully you'll find one you just know in your heart was meant for you.

Everyone works through their grief differently. Some people need time before they can consider getting another dog, others are ready to love again much sooner. In the end you have to do what is right for your life.

Thanks for sharing your situation, and keep us posted how things turn out. Good luck! - posted by:Kelly

Traveling with dogs by air does take some planning ahead, so I'm glad you're thinking about this now. First of all, I have two articles that you may find helpful, depending on how far along you've gotten with your travel plans.

• Dog Air Travel- Covers the basics.
• Pet Quarantine- You'll want to check on France's pet quarantine laws.

Now, let's talk about the food issue. You're right to be concerned about your small dog going without food for too long. It can cause an imbalance in the blood sugar, so it's important that your dog at least gets a snack during the journey. If you plan to take your dog in the cabin as carry on, you can bring some dry kibble in a zip-lock bag. If you plan to fly your dog in cargo, I recommend putting a couple of small to medium size dog biscuits in the carrier with your pet. This is a bit more practical than kibble that can easily be spilled. Of course, it would be wise to check ahead with the airline to make sure there's no objection to bringing food of any kind. Airline regulations seem to change frequently, so it pays to double check.

Thanks for your question, and I hope you find this information useful. Have a safe journey. :) - posted by:Kelly

First let me offer my sympathy on the loss of your beloved Boxer. Pets become an integral part of our family, and their loss can be just as devastating as losing a person. Working through the grief takes some time, but it does eventually begin to fade. What is left are great memories of the time the two of you shared together.

The fact that you are considering bringing another Boxer into your life shows you still have a lot of love left to give. You might want to give it a little more time so you will be ready to accept your new canine friend for who he truly is, but I think adopting another dog will be good for you in the long run. Take your time and don't rush to adopt the first one you find. You'll want to make sure the two of you are very compatible, otherwise you may always compare your new dog to your last Boxer. The new dog won't be a replacement, but he will mark a new chapter in your life. Don't embrace that change until you're sure you're ready.

Best wishes. - posted by:Kelly

It's not that unusual for a dog to pick up a flea or two after being outside. It may just be that these two fleas hadn't been on your puppy long enough to be affected by the Advantage yet.

Aside from that, it sounds like you're doing all the right things to keep your home from becoming infested. The vacuuming is especially helpful since it picks up eggs the fleas leave behind. Be sure to vacuum beneath the cushions in your furniture as well. The only other thing I could recommend that you didn't mention doing is spraying your yard with a flea control spray. There are several kinds available. I have always found Otho's Liquid Sevin useful, but your local landscape nursery can likely recommend a safe product you can use, as well as how to apply it to your lawn. Some products require two applications spaced a couple of weeks apart to kill any new hatchlings from the last batch of adults.

Thanks for sharing your situation, and I hope this reply helps put you more at ease. Most of us face the occasional flea or two, but it sounds like you shouldn't wind up with an infestation. :) - posted by:Kelly

I'm sorry to hear about your situation. My first recommendation is to have a heart to heart talk with your daughter. Tell her how burdened you feel trying to care for her dog. There's a chance she just doesn't realize how difficult it has been for you. Try to agree on a reasonable deadline for her to either take her dog to her new home or find a new owner for it. By talking it over between the two of you and reaching an agreement, it will be easier to avoid damaging your mother/daughter relationship.

All of that said, I'm not sure about the legalities involved in this situation. Does your daughter have registration papers to show ownership of this dog? How long has she left the dog in your care? These are the kinds of questions a legal professional might ask if you called for advice about whether you are within your rights to sell the dog at this time. Even if an attorney gives you the go ahead, you will likely face difficulty finding a buyer for a five-year-old Standard. You will also not be able to transfer a registration certificate without your daughter's signature if she is indeed listed as the owner of record. Be prepared for the fact that you may have to give this dog away to a new home or possibly turn it in to an animal shelter if your daughter isn't willing or able to take over her pet's care once again.

Thank you for sharing your situation, and I hope you're able to work it out to everyone's benefit. - posted by:Kelly

Luckily, the Siberian Husky's coat grows very thick once cooler weather arrives. It's a natural aspect of this breed, and under adequate circumstances, this coat will keep your young dog quite warm. Siberians are one of many breeds developed to endure cold weather.

That said, let's talk about your dog's kennel set up. Is there a dog house attached, or is it just a basic kennel? If your dog doesn't have his own house, you'll want to add one to provide more shelter from the wind, rain and snow of winter, as well as the hot rays of the sun in summer.

A well placed and properly sized dog house provides a good deal of warmth and protection. The interior of the house should be just a large enough for your dog to enter and turn around in. This type of close quarters retains some of your dog's natural body heat and helps warm the structure. The door of the house should be faced away from prevailing winds to help cut down on drafts. Many dog houses also have a panel just inside the door that also helps stop drafts from reaching the interior.

All of that said, I think you'll find the following articles helpful for improving your dog's outdoor shelter. Just keep in mind that you may still need to bring your dog inside during periods of extreme cold.

• Dog Houses
• Dog House Types
• Dog House Plans

Thanks for your question, and I hope you find this information useful. :) - posted by:Kelly

Unfortunately, broken teeth will not regrow. Once the material is damaged, that's it.

The question here is whether these are your dog's puppy canines or adult teeth. If they are the puppy canines, these teeth will eventually fall out to make way for healthy adult canines that should be fully formed. However, if they are adult canines, there isn't much you do about it except have your vet examine them to make sure there are no sharp edges that could injur your dog's tongue. The teeth may even require the attention of a doggie dentist.

Thank you for your question and for visiting the site. - posted by:Kelly

That's a really good question. The Catahoula Leopard Dog certainly seems to enjoy a fierce loyalty from anyone who owns one. These dogs are extremely intelligent, and while loyal to their families, they are very standoffish with strangers. It takes them a while to warm up to new people.

These dogs are also highly energetic and rather territorial. They have strong personalities as a rule, and they prefer to be at the top of the family hierarchy. This means you have to be a very active owner who is able to establish and maintain your position as the leader. This task is not as easily achieved by children, who may find themselves being bossed around by the dog if he get's the idea he can get away with it. Early obedience training and reinforcement of good behaviors is a must with this breed.

Catahoulas also tend to dominate other household pets, and they often have a strong instinct to "herd" them. I believe this would tend to make a house cat rather stressed, but each pet's personality is unique so you may find a pup raised with the cats might be able to get along with them.

I recommend you check out this article about temperament posted at Catahoulas.org. It addresses some of the issues that concern you. There is also a breeder's directory, and you could call one or two to ask questions. I always find that actual breeders are the best people to ask about specific breed characteristics since they live with the dogs on a daily basis.

Thank you for your question. I hope this is enough information to get you started. :) - posted by:Kelly

I admire your willingness to take on this dog, but it may not be the right choice for your family at this time. House accident issues aside, that case of cherry eye needs to be treated. Unfortunately, the exposed tear gland will not retreat back into the eyelid on its own, and steroid injections are usually not very effective. As long as the gland remains exposed, there's a risk of injury. Usually surgery is required to put it back in its proper location. It would be better to let someone adopt this dog who is able to accomodate the cost of the surgery if the current owner is unable or unwilling to take care of it. In the meantime, perhaps you could start saving back a little money at a time to create a vet care fund to cover basic veterinary costs for any future dog you might get. This way you'll be prepared when the time truly comes.

Thanks for your question, and best wishes. - posted by:Kelly

I'm sorry to hear your puppy is in such serious condition. The only real help I can provide is to offer a few suggestions about what might be going on. You really need to take this pup to the vet right away.

One suggestion is that your pup may be having a toxic reaction to something he either ingested or that was applied to him. Many Collies cannot tolerate certain flea products and heartworm preventatives. If you used either of these, that might be the source of the problem, given your dog's Collie heritage.

Another consideration is that this problem could be neurological in nature. That could account for the sudden onset of symptoms and your dog's lack of coordination.

Finally, this could be a very strong virus. Whatever the cause, I think it would still be the wisest thing to see the vet immediately. Puppies tend to succomb to illnesses quicker due to their smaller systems, so early treatment is essential.

Best wishes for your pup's full recovery, and please let us know what you find out. - posted by:Kelly

That's a very tall order, but I do have a few suggestions for you.

Two breeds immediately sprang to mind, but neither are large and strong, although I think they fit the bill in every other way.

The Japanese Chin would make a perfect companion for your Angoras. You can learn more about this breed by clicking on the highlighted title.

The Shih Tzu would also make a very fine companion for your cats when raised together.

There are some larger breeds that have some of the qualities you describe. However, I'm not sure they would make quite the match you seek.

You might want to consider:

• Afghan Hounds
• Great Danes
• Standard Poodles

The best thing you can do is visit breeders of the dogs you're interested in to get a feel for these dogs' personalities. You can then compare it to your cats in order to select the best match. It really is possible to have cats and dogs under the same roof, so best of luck in your search. Thanks for visiting the site, and take your time browsing through our Dog Breeds category for more suggestions. :) - posted by:Kelly

If you don't need papers for anything other than proving your dog's purebred heritage, you might want to have him DNA tested. This is far more expensive than applying for a PAL/ILP number from the American Kennel Club, but you would truly know whether your dog is a full-blooded Rottweiler. The test is very simple. You just order the kit, swab the inside of your dog's cheek with the swab provided, seal it in the container and mail it back to the laboratory. Once testing is completed, the company will issue you the results whether your dog is indeed purebred or which other breeds are in his ancestry.

The test currently costs $120.00, and you can order it from Metamorphix.

Thanks for your question, and I hope the results are what you expect. :) - posted by:Kelly

There are several kennel clubs that might be willing to issue papers for your dog, but the one that I am most familiar with is the American kennel club.

The AKC offers a Purebred Alternative Listing/Indefinite Listing Privilege (PAL/ILP). It's specifically for dogs that appear to be purebred but don't have any registration record.

Becoming registered through this program doesn't give your dog full AKC privileges to compete in conformation shows or participate in AKC breeding. However, it would allow your dog to compete in obedience and other such competitions.

The non-refundable application fee is currently $35.00 and you must submit two clear photos of your dog. Once must be a full frontal view so they can get a good look at your dog's head and facial features. The second view must be a full side shot of your dog standing on a flat surface (not grass). If your dog's appearance is judged to be consistent with Rottweiler characteristics, a PAL/ILP certificate with registration number will be issued to you.

For full information, visit AKC.org.

Thanks for your question, and best wishes with your new pet. :) - posted by:Kelly

Good question. I don't believe dogs have the exact same concept of time as humans. They obviously can't read a clock, but I do believe they have some notice of time passing. Perhaps they have some awarness of the sun overhead and the difference between light and dark (even though they have night vision). It's definitely a possibility.

Regardless of their concept of time, leaving a dog alone a lot can result in stress. You can offset this by providing a dog with interactive toys as well as a nice bed to nap in. These items will help break up the period of time spent alone and provide enough stimulation to keep him healthier.

Thanks for your question, and I hope you found this answer useful. Welcome to the site. :) - posted by:Kelly

It's true that some dogs have a musky scent and some breeds naturally carry more coat oil than others. Here are a few breeds you might want to investigate.

• Shih Tzus: The Shih Tzu's coat is really a bit more like human hair, and it is never oily unless there is a health problem involved. These dogs also don't shed like a typical dog. The fur tends to hang in the coat, so once in a while you'll find a tuft, but never a lot of floating hair. On the down side, it takes a regular grooming program to keep these dogs in shape. Even when kept in a short puppy clip, you need to brush them several times a week and bath them once or twice a month.
• Lhasa Apsos: Virtually the same information as for Shih Tzus.
• Poodle: Pick a size, any size. Poodles come in Toy, Miniature and Standard, and they are another dog that is not oily and does not carry a strong body odor when kept reasonably clean. Poodles rarely shed any hair, but the coats can mat. This is another breed that will require clipping about every six to eight weeks to look good and manageable. Brushing two to three times a week is sufficient for a puppy or pet trim. Bathing once or twice a month should suffice.
• Bichon Frises: Bichon care is remarkably similar to Poodle care, and this breed is an extremely low shedder that doesn't carry a strong body odor.
• Yorkshire Terrier: Yorkies also carry a long coat, but the lack of thick undercoat makes them far easier to groom whether you choose to keep them in long coat or a pet trim. They are virtually odor free and rarely oily when bathed once or twice a month.

I'm sure there are other breeds that fit the bill, but these are the first ones that came to mind. Not only for your requirements, but because they make very devoted pets. With the exception of the Lhasa Apso, most of these breeds also get along well with children and other pets.

I hope that's enough info to help you begin your search. The best thing you can do is visit some breeders to see how the dogs are kept and ask questions about their care.

Thanks for your questions and good luck! - posted by:Kelly

I'm so sorry to hear what happened. I am not a vet, but it sounds as though your dog might have had a devastating seizure.

If you would like to be sure about what happened, you could ask your vet to perform a necropsy on Betty. This is the canine equivalent of an autopsy, and it can be very revealing. However, it is also a little expensive so you'll need to decide if your desire to understand what caused your dog's passing is worth the cost. That said, it may be possible for your vet to find a reasonable cause of death through a basic physical examination of your dog's body.

Thank you for sharing your question with us during this difficult. It may not seem like it now, but the sorrow will eventually begin to fade and you will be left with many wonderful memories of the times spent with Betty.

Best wishes. - posted by:Kelly

Many dogs learn to spend time on their own while their owners are at work. Contrary to some opinions, it's actually good for a dog to learn a little independence to avoid developing separation anxiety. Supplying a dog with some interactive dog toys and a nice bed to nap in will help the animal to pass the time while you're at work. Some owners also choose to enrich their dog's life with a couple days of doggie day care each week. It's another option to consider.

The main difficulty I foresee has to do with training. It requires a lot of consistency to house break a new dog, and you must let the pet out on a frequent and regular schedule. Otherwise, you may wind up with a dog that thinks it's alright to potty indoors.

If you do decide to get a dog, it would be best to do it in conjunction with any vacation time you have coming. This way you can get a jump on potty training before you have to go back to work.

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

That's an interesting question. As far as I know, there are no new breeds in development that have both Papillons and Long Coat Chihuahua in their foundation stock. A check of the background of both of these breeds also reveals that neither appears in the development of the other.

In my personal opinion, I'm kind of glad no one seems to be breeding these two breeds together. Although they appear somewhat similar, they have two very distinct head types, both of which would be lost with crossbreeding. I'd rather enjoy the Chi's apple dome head and the Pap's dramatically fringed butterfly ears separately. Viva la difference!

Thanks for posing and interesting question. :) - posted by:Kelly

There is probably no worry of this bite affecting your dog's sense of smell. As long as he can take air into his nostrils, it will still reach his olfactory system inside.

How deep would you say the wound is? If you can see through to bone, it will likely require stitches. If it has only broken the outer pigmanted skin to the pink beneath, the injury should heal on its own if you keep it clean and apply a little antibiotic oinment. The bite may leave a scar, but I think that's going to be the extent of the damage.

Thanks for your question, and I hope your dog heals quickly. - posted by:Kelly

It sounds as though your puppy is growing well. Whether she will go oversize depends largely on the growth rate of her family line. Some lines attain full frame and weight before they reach a year old, and then mature and tone up. Others creep along in size until they hit around 11 pounds at a year old.

I wouldn't be terribly concerned at this point. Your puppy only seems to be a bit ahead of schedule, and all puppies go through growth spurts. Feel your puppy's body. Does she feel overweight at this time? If so, I'd give it more time because that puppy fat will spread out along the frame as it grows.

All of this said, I think you'd feel better if you discussed this puppy's size with the breeder. The breeder can tell you if his/her line is a quick maturing one.

Thanks for your question, and I hope it all works out for you. :) - posted by:Kelly

I'm not a vet, so take my thoughts for what they are worth.

First, at seven months old, your puppy may be getting ready to come into her first heat cycle. This could account for the obsessive affection as well as the outbursts of aggression against your other puppies. Also, your older puppy probably wants to assert her dominance over the younger ones, and her quick aggressive actions might be what she perceives as corrections to her pack.

As for the uncontrolled door ramming, it's very possible your husband witnessed a psychomotor seizure. This type of seizure presents as odd, repetitive behavior. I can't be sure this is what's going on, but I do think you should contact your vet if your dog has another episode.

Thanks for your question, and I do hope that everything turns out alright. - posted by:Kelly

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