Dog Nutrition

With so many options out there it can be a daunting task to choose the right diet for your dog. Do you feed dry kibble? Canned food? Perhaps you go the raw foods way, or make your own homemade food?

It is known that processed dog food high in grains can cause hot spots and allergies in dogs. Proper nutrition is important throughout the life of your canine, but making sure growing puppies (especially large breed dogs) get the proper nutrients to support their growth is essential. Senior dogs too have special dietary needs to keep healthy their aging bodies.

So the question is, what do you prefer and why? What commercial foods are the 'best'? What brands have you had trouble with? If you have homemade recipes, post them! :)

Good Breeders

I've seen this issue turn into heated debates over and over again. There are many that would have you believe that there are no good breeders, but things like this can't be so easily defined. The problem of pet overpopulation leaves many under the impression that any addition to this population at all is irresponsible, careless and greedy. The problem with that argument is that responsible breeders contribute only to a small percentage of the pet population, and their contributions are healthy, well adjusted animals with a documented temperament and conformation history. Overwhelmingly, the homeless pets are mixed breed dogs. This means that irresponsible breeders and irresponsible owners allowed dogs to reproduce when they shouldn't have. Illegitimate breeders are even attempting to pass off these mixed breeds as 'designer dogs' and sell them for a high profit. Many are claiming that these new designer dogs are registered.

While they may be registered with registries of ill repute such as ACA (American Canine Association) or CKC (Continental Kennel Club), those Kennel Clubs that are truly notable and respected do not recognize mixed breeds in their registries. AKC (American Kennel Club) is the oldest registry in the United States, the only non-profit, and the most noted. Their registration requirements are strict, and the Club provides and encourages DNA testing and health screening in its dogs. They hold conformation events to evaluate breeding dogs, as well as obedience trials, agility trials, tracking trials and rallys; earthdog trials, field trials, herding tests, hunt tests, lure coursing and tracking sport are also part of AKC evaluations. UKC (United Kennel Club) is the largest all-breed performance-dog registry in the world and aims to produce dogs that meet conformation standards both in looks and performance.

How to know if a Registry is Legitimate

Look up their standards for registration. Registries list their requirements online. An illegitimate registry will often:

• take someones 'word' that the dog is registered
• require that a dog must 'look like' a certain breed to be registered as that breed, but don't define standards such as height, weight or color restrictions
  
• not require any form of pedigree or registration with another registry
• not require any form of proof that a dog is the breed stated
• register mixed dogs such as Puggles, Maltipoos, ShiChis, Chiweenies, Cockapoos, Labradoodles, etc.
• allow new breeds in with no probationary time span or stock number requirements
• not require any information about the dog's parents, history, health, etc.
  

The two most renowned registries in the United States are the AKC and the UKC. Noted foreign registries are part of the FCI (Fédération Cynologique Internationale) and can often be cross registered. In this way, new genetic lines can be introduced to promote the health of the breed while adhering to its standard. Remy is only 2 generations removed from a Hungarian import. Since the AKC recognizes FCI registries, a dog formerly of the Hungarian registry Magyar Ebtenyésztők Országos Egyesülete was able to add some genetic diversity to the Miniature Bull Terrier gene pool here in America.

Signs of a Good Breeder

• their dogs are registered with a noted registry such as AKC, UKC or a foreign alternative
• dogs are sometimes double registered
• competes in conformation/agility/obedience events through their chosen kennel club
• their dogs have won awards in their area of competition
• has produced puppies that come to work as service dogs, therapy dogs, search and rescue, police dogs or emotional support dogs
• breeds for a specific goal (for example, breeding for performance or breeding for conformation and temperament)
  
• DNA tests their dogs
• temperament tests their dogs
  
• does health screenings for problems associated with the breed
• they require you to sign a contract when you purchase a puppy
• they require spaying/neutering
• they will not sell a puppy without a limited registration
• they ask you in depth questions about your experience with dogs, your lifestyle, your family, your home, former pets, etc.
• they will not let a puppy leave before 8 weeks of age, often not before 10 or more weeks
• requires vet references
• require that you take the puppy to your vet within 2 days of receiving it
• they have extensive knowledge on the breed, its history, their line's pedigree, health concerns, genetics, etc. and are happy to discuss them with you
• may require a home visit to ensure that their puppy is going to a good home
• will not sell a puppy for breeding purposes
• are often hesitant to sell a puppy to a first time dog owner or first time breed owner
• will often require that you return the dog to them if you cannot keep it
• often microchip their puppies before they leave, and so are notified if the dog ever ends up in a shelter
• can and will answer any questions you may have on dog ownership, puppy rearing, or the breed
• will not rush you into buying a dog; if you feel a breeder is trying to pressure or rush you into a decision, turn and walk away
• often provides blankets and toys that carry familiar smells to comfort the puppy when it goes to its new home
• will make annual calls or send emails to check up on the dog
• socializes the puppies from birth with adults, children, other dogs, cats, etc.
• raises the puppies in their home (an exception is sometimees made for working dogs such as sled dogs or herding dogs, or for very large breeds)
• is willing to let you see where the puppies are raised
• has one or both parents on premises and is completely willing to let you see them

Though it may seem like an extensive list, it is not complete. Every breeder is slightly different and will do things a little differently than the next. However, these guidelines are to give you a basis of understanding to what makes a good breeder. The goal of good breeders should be the betterment of their chosen breed. They may accomplish this through conformation (meeting breed standards), temperament, performance (what the dog was bred for; herding, earthdog trials, retrieving, tracking, etc), agility, obedience, or any combination of these. Raising dogs really is a passion to these people, and they put unbelievable amounts of time, effort, money and love into their dogs.

If you've had experience with a breeder, good or bad, leave a comment and let us know what happened.

Varkhond is on the Youtubes

As of today Varkhond Records has its own Youtube channel. :) Check it out to see Remy as the chubby little pig-dog he was and hopefully (if I don't get too lazy to post more videos) to see how much he has grown. Eventually I'll get some of his training videos up and show off how smart my pup is like a proud momma should. Here's The first video ever taken of him, when he was about 9 weeks old.



I'm aware that he's approximately the cutest thing to ever walk the earth, but feel free to comment with links to your own adorable pups.

RIP Daddy

For anyone that is a fan of Cesar Millan, the Dog Whisperer, sad news came of the passing of his right hand dog, a pit bull named Daddy.

Daddy was the perfect picture of a calm-submissive pit bull and possibly the greatest ambassador for the breed. In a time when pit bulls are targeted by media and insurance companies as vicious and unpredictable animals Daddy showed the world what the breed can aspire to. He helped rehabilitate countless dogs by being a source of well-balanced energy at Cesar's side. Though Daddy's protégé, Junior, lives on he has some big paw prints to fill.

His name is now added to that honorable roster of dogs gone by whose influence is still felt today, and which includes some of Cesar’s beloved childhood heroes: "Rin-Tin-Tin." "Lassie." … "Daddy."

Daddy was 16. Our condolences go out to the Millan family. Daddy will forever remain an ambassador and icon for pit bulls and those who love them.

Donations in Daddy's memory can be made to Daddy's Emergency Animal Rescue Fund, which gives aid to dogs who are victims of abuse or violence, man-made disasters and large-scale natural disasters.

Doggie First Aid

You hope it never happens. You don't think that it will. But if an emergency arises, do you know how to save your dog's life? Canine First Aid is a relatively new concept to many people, but knowing just the basics can save your dog a lot of pain, and perhaps even his life.

If you don't already have one, consider putting together a 'Doggie First Aid Kit'. If you regularly travel with your pet its not a bad idea to keep one in your car as well. Here are some ideas for basic contents to get you started:

Canine First Aid Kit

• Your vet's phone number and Emergency number
  
• Rectal thermometer (normal canine temperatures are between 100 and 102 degrees)
• Muzzle or nylon stocking to use as a makeshift muzzle (an injured dog is likely to bite, even if it is normally a sweet, calm dog. This is a normal reaction to pain and should be expected. Look here for simple instructions on how to create a makeshift muzzle)
• Hot packs and cold packs, self activating (hot packs are great for injuries, and cold packs for cooling down an overheated dog or one suffering from heat stroke)
• Saline solution (to clear any dirt or foreign objects from Rover's eyes)
• Gauze
• Benedryl (yes, the anti-allergy medicine)
• Tweezers
• Bacitracine/Neosporin
• Bactine spray
  
• Ipecac (to induce vomiting; consult your emergency vet to make sure this is the proper procedure for your situation)
• Imodeum (anti-diarrheal)
  
• Medical tape
• Scissors/knife
• Kwik-Stop (a styptic powder, used to stop bleeding for minor cuts; useful if a nail is cut or broken too short)
• A blanket (especially useful for large breed dogs; enlisting the help of someone, place the dog on the blanket and lift all four corners of the blanket, trying to keep the dog as still and flat as possible. Best used in a situation where the dog is unconscious or unable to move. Good way to prevent further injury if your dog has been struck by a car)
• Cotton swabs
  
• Q-tips
• Flexible eye dropper

Note: This is just a basic list. Consult your vet for a more complete compilation. Pre-assembled pet first aid kits are available online for a range of prices; do your research and shop around. Some kits have better grade materials than others. Remember, the information here is provided as a suggestion and for educational purposes only. It is in no way a replacement for medical advice. If an emergency occurs, contact your emergency vet immediately.

During an Emergency

Stay calm. Assess the situation. If you freak out, your dog will freak out more. Educating yourself on signs of a problem and procedures beforehand can make you more confident in your skills and help you stay calm.

Call your emergency vet. They are trained medical professionals and will advise you on how to proceed with any given medical emergency with your pet.

Health Threats

Ingesting something: Dogs, and especially puppies are curious animals, and like human toddlers they get into things that aren't good for them. This can range from eating human food that causes sickness to poisoning to ingesting something that can cause blockage. If your dog has ingested something toxic, induce vomiting (call your emergency vet first) and rush him to the animal hospital. If your dog has ingested something that can cause a blockage do not induce vomiting, or you risk causing your pet to choke.

Signs of poisoning in dogs: it varies from animal to animal and toxin to toxin; some common signs are drooling, fatigue, weakness, vomiting, and convulsions (seizures).

Do NOT induce vomiting if your dog has ingested the following:

• laundry detergent
• gasoline
  
• lighter fluid
  
• ammonia
  
• paint removers
  
• paint thinners

Instead, feed a tablespoon of mineral oil or cooking oil and rush to the vet. Vomiting these substances can cause severe damage to your pet.

Choking: If your pet is conscious, the signs of choking are usually quite clear. Gasping for breath, gagging, pale tongue, lack of breathing, attempts to vomit. If these occur, open your dog's mouth and check his airways. You may be able to see the object. If you try to remove it be aware that you may be bitten. If he chokes while eating, gently but firmly massage his throat. This causes a swallowing reflex and may clear the airway. Be careful in doing this, as massaging the throat can cause punctures if a sharp object is lodged. Performing the canine Heimlich maneuver can help a dog dislodge something that is causing an obstruction of the airways. The longer your dog chokes on something, the more panicked it will become. You need to remain calm despite this. If your dog is unconscious, you need to check his airways. If they are blocked then choking is probably the cause. This page gives clear instructions on how to perform emergency first aid in the case of choking.

Cuts/lacerations: minor cuts and scrapes should be cleaned and treated with an anti-infection medication such as Bactine or Neosporin. Bandaging will keep a dog from licking the wound and ingesting the medicine. Frequent bandage changes are necessary to avoid infection. More serious cuts may need stitches. Apply pressure (muzzle your dog first) to slow bleeding and get to the vet asap. There is a short window of time where stitches can be used to sew up a wound.

Burns: Chemical, thermal (sun) and electrical burns are the most common.
For sunburns, treat with cold packs and cool water. Do not use oil based products, and do not use aloe vera (poisonous to dogs). Deep sunburns are more serious and can cause shock in a dog. Go to your vet immediately. sunburns can also contribute to or cause heat stroke.
Electrical burns are most commonly a result of chewing through electrical cables. Take preventative measures and make sure all cables are out of reach or protected by chew-resistant covers. Bitter sprays can also discourage a dog from chewing on cables. Electrical burns can cause burns in the mouth and on the tongue, death by stopping the heart, and can cause brain damage and/or nerve damage.
Chemical burns are caused by a chemical coming in contact with the skin and causing tissue damage. Chemical burns are different than chemical ingestion. Treat chemical burns by washing the affected area with water. Serious burns should be treated by a vet.

Heatstroke: is the rising of body temperature. Symptoms include drooling, panting, lack of coordination, head that is hot to the touch and rapid breathing. To treat, remove the dog from the hot environment. Immerse the dog in lukewarm/cool water, NOT cold water. Cold water can cause shock. Apply a cold pack to the top of the head and transport to the vet immediately.

Hypothermia: is when a body falls below its normal temperature. Signs of hypothermia are depression, subnormal body temperature, shivering, unconsciousness (coma) and ultimately, death. Treat by removing the dog from the cold environment, applying hot packs and wrapping in blankets. Transport to the vet.

Diarrhea: While not immediately a life threatening issue, diarrhea can quickly cause dehydration. Make sure water is always available. If diarrhea continues for more than 24 hours or contains blood, call your vet.

Shock: This results from traumatic injury to your dog. Pretty much any of the health threats listed here can cause shock. Signs include: feeling cool to the touch, pale gums, fast but shallow breathing and weak, rapid pulse. Shock requires immediate treatment by your vet.

No breathing, no heartbeat: This can be caused by any number of reasons. Performing CPR may revive your dog, or give you enough time to reach medical assistance. Don't perform CPR on a dog that has a heartbeat or is breathing. If there is a heartbeat but no breathing you can attempt artificial respiration after checking that the airways are clear. Before administering CPR, muzzle the dog as he may become aggressive when conscious.

Administer CPR as follows:

1. Lay the dog on its side. If there is no back or neck injury, pull the head and neck forward.
2. Open the dog's mouth and pull the tongue forward so it does not block the throat. Clear the mouth of any debris with your fingers and close the dog's mouth. Recheck the pulse.
3. Hold the dog's mouth and lips closed. Apply the muzzle.
4. Inhale and put your mouth over the dog's nose, forming an airtight seal. Exhale. Repeat the process 10 - 15 times per minute.
5. Remove your mouth and apply heart massage between breaths.
6. Place the heel of one hand over the dog's chest (in line with the back of its elbow). Place the heel of your other hand on top of the other.
7. Pump firmly and briskly. Hold each push for two counts and release for a count of one. (Use pressure appropriate for the size of the dog.)

Continue the massage until the heartbeat returns. Continue artificial respiration until the dog begins to breathe.

Drowning: See link.

Eye Problems: These occur when an object irritates the eye. Dust, dirt, hair and even allergies can cause this. If a dog is scratching or pawing at its eyes or if the third eyelid (located in the corner of the eye nearest the nose) appears puffy or red there is a problem. Other signs of eye problems are thick discharge or redness. Keeping your dog from further injuring itself is the most important goal at this point. A dog cone will prevent your pet from scratching its cornea or worse while you transport him to the vet. Mild irritation can often be treated by flushing the eyes with saline solution.

Tips to prevent health problems:

• check over your dog regularly; if an injury or growth occurs you want to find it at the soonest possible time
• exercise!
• feed a proper, well balanced diet
• educate yourself: learn what foods, plants and medications are harmful to your dog. learn to recognize the signs of illness, injury and poisoning
• doggie proof your house; make sure all toxic plants, foods and chemicals are out of reach and inaccessible
  
• obedience training; not only is it mentally stimulating and physically healthy for your dog, training can save your dog's life. Obedience commands such as 'stay' and 'drop it' could stop your dog from darting into traffic or ingesting something poisonous.
• Avoid table scraps. Some human foods are toxic to dogs, including grapes, onions, garlic and chocolate. Never feed a dog chicken bones, as they splinter and can cause choking and internal puncture wounds.
  

This information is for educational purposes only. It is not meant to replace medical treatment or advice. List your vet's number and emergency number in an easily accessible place, and make sure all toxic substance are out of reach of children and pets. Like the saying goes, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.

Pedigree Slow Motion Video

I don't feed my dogs Pedigree, but I couldn't pass up posting this video. The expressions of the dogs are just awesome.




On a related note, there is a lot of controversy on proper diet for dogs. There are countless options; kibble, canned, raw, homemade etc. What are your opinions? What do you feed your dogs? Leave a comment letting us know.

About the Varkhond

In celebration of Remy's 6 month birthday, here's a bit of information on Bull Terriers. :)

Varkhond is the Afrikaans word for a Bull Terrier. It means Pig-Dog (presumably because of their egg-shaped head.) Miniature Bull Terriers are exactly the same as the standard variety except in regard to their size.

Standard Bull Terrier
Height: 20-24 inches at the shoulder (51-61 cm.) Weight: 45-80 pounds (20-36 kg.)
Miniature Bull Terrier
Height: 10-14 inches (25-33 cm.) Weight: 24-33 pounds (11-15 kg.)

History
Bull Terriers were originally bred in the early to mid-1800s for blood sports like bull baiting. The breed we know today as the Bull Terrier was created by crossing the popular 'bull and terrier' dogs (crosses between the Old English Bulldog and Old English Terriers) and the now-extinct English White Terrier. They were originally known as the Hinks Breed (for James Hinks, credited as being the original creator of the breed) or as White Cavaliers. When it was found that they were not particularly adept at the sport of bull baiting, they were bred instead as a 'gentleman's companion', a dog that would not actively seek out fights with other dogs, but one that could surely finish a fight once started. Due to health issues that arose with the all-white dogs, cross breeding with Staffordshire Bull Terriers introduced a brindle variety. AKC recognized the Bull Terrier in 1885 and the Miniature Bull Terrier in 1991.

Appearance
Both the standard and miniature varieties of the Bull Terrier breed are solidly built, muscular dogs. The AKC recognized two color varieties, the White (allowing for color on the head only) and the Colored (brindle is preferred). Their ears are naturally erect and must not be cropped or altered. Tails are carried horizontally instead of vertically. They are considered a 'head' breed, as their distinctly sloping skull is their dominant trait. Referred to as a 'roman nose' or 'roman muzzle' the head is flat on top and curves without stop to the nose. They have tightly set toes (some refer to them as cat-like) and no hanging jowls. Eyes are triangular and set close together, giving the breed a very expressive look.

Temperament
Known today as 'little gladiators' they are a tough breed that is nonetheless clownish and happy go lucky. They are known to be 'bull-headed' or stubborn in general, but firm and consistent leadership makes them great dogs. They aren't recommended for the first time owner because of the level of leadership they require. They tend to be courageous, energetic and playful. They love people, though their energetic nature means they can get a little overzealous in playing with small children and should be supervised (as with any dog). However their higher pain tolerance makes them good playmates for children because of the normal poking and prodding nature of kids. (Note: Never leave young children unsupervised with any animal, and make sure children learn the proper way to treat and handle dogs and other animals. While bullies have a higher pain tolerance, no one likes their eyes poked at or their skin pinched.) They have a reputation of not getting along well with other dogs, but early socialization can make them social butterflies. Training is not an option with this breed it is a requirement, and though they are stubborn they are very intelligent. If they lack the proper mental stimulation that intelligence can quickly translate to destructive behavior. Channeling their energy toward positive goals can prevent nearly all of the bad traits associated with this breed. They are known to obsess over certain objects (vacuum cleaners are most common) but the proper amount of exercise and training can prevent or fix this problem. Their intelligence means that they can work out how to do tricks quickly if properly taught, and their clownish nature makes their tricks that much more enjoyable to watch.

Health/Care
Bullies have short glossy coats that require minimal grooming. They are average shedders and the occasional brushing helps to remove that dead hair. Care should be taken in their diet as obesity is a known problem (they are Pig-Dogs after all.) Sunscreen may be needed on white patches of fur where the fur is sparse, such as near the nose, on the stomach and occasionally on the hindquarters. White dogs are predisposed to deafness, an issue in any white-coated breed. The Mini Bulls are prone to luxating patellas, a problem in small dogs where the kneecap slips out of place. This can be remidied with surgery. Primary Lens Luxation (PLL) is an eye problem associated with the Miniatures, but there is a DNA test which can tell you if your dog carries the gene or is affected by it. Some Minis suffer from skin allergies or 'hot spots' but this can normally be cleared up by feeding a diet lower in grains. Bullies are suseptible to heart and kidney diseases as well, but overall they are a healthy breed. They are a fairly long lived breed and can be expected to live 10-12 years, though older dogs are not unheard of.

The Bull Terrier breed is not for everyone. No breed is. Firm leadership and consistant training are necesities. With bully breeds as a whole being targeted and labeled as 'vicious' and 'unstable' it is all the more important that our bullies are the best canine citizens they can be. I highly recommend obedience training for any bully breed. Get your bully certified as a Canine Good Citizen. If he has the right temperament, get him certified as a therapy dog. Socialize with other dogs, adults and children from early on. Don't accept inappropriate behavior; your dog is happiest when he is making you happy. Show him how. As owners, we need to take on the responsibility of showing others that the myths about 'vicious, unpredictable and evil' bully breeds are just false. Make your bully an ambassador for the breed!

134th Westminster Kennel Club Show

Despite PETA protesters interrupting the Westminster Dog Show during judging for Best in Show, Sadie the Scottish Terrier was awarded the coveted title. It was her 3rd time at Westminster.

The show took place Monday and Tuesday, February 15th and 16th at Madison Square Garden in New York.

The protesters entered the ring and held up signs that declared 'Mutts Rule' and 'Breeders Kill Shelter Dogs', a common slogan used by PETA; their reasoning being that when people buy a puppy from a breeder, a shelter dog that could have been saved is put to sleep. Nevermind that their organization euthanizes 95% of the animals they take in (the proof is public record; despite taking in 3317 dogs they only adopted out 4. Yes, 4. For the entire year.)

I could rant about PETA's incompetence all day, but I'll save that for another post.


Instead, here are some great pictures from Westminster!

Like I could resist posting the Mini Bull.

Wiener dog wink!


All images are copyright Timothy A Clary. Check out more pictures here, including Cutest dogs and Ugliest Dogs at Westminster, and a few pictures of the protesters.

What do you think of dog shows and breeders? Leave a comment and let us know.

Rescue Dogs Reunited with their Family after Haiti Earthquake

Watch CBS News Videos Online

Two dogs that survived hurricane Katrina again faced disaster when their adoptive family suffered through the earthquake in Haiti, where they were doing AIDS Relief work. When the family was flown back to the US they were forced to leave their beloved dogs behind. This is the story of their miraculous reunion.

Hero Dogs - Wyatt

Wyatt, a dog rescued from a shelter returns the favor by rescuing his diabetic owner.