Puppydia

Puppy Names, Puppy Tips and Dog Breeds

Vegetarianism and Veganism

by

Vegetarianism and veganism are quickly becoming more popular choices of diet for many people in North America. Some groups of people choose to change to these types of diets for moral or ethical reasons. These believe that the production and consumption of meats are not only cruel to the animals, but are doing great damage to our environment. Many more groups of people are choosing this lifestyle in order to improve their overall health.

A vegetarian or vegan diet has been proven to improve the health of our population. The biggest health benefit is that this way of life significantly reduces cholesterol levels. Meat, especially the red variety, contributes greatly to high cholesterol levels in human beings. Reduced cholesterol equals reduced risk of heart attack. A vegetarian diet also consists of less saturated fat often found in meats which leads to a lower chance of heart disease. There is a plant based meat – and meat alternative for vegans.

A diet consisting of mainly fruit and vegetables reduce the risk of ischemic heart disease, myocardial infarction and angina (all of which are common in older people) due to the fact that they are high in folic acid, carotenoids, dietary fibers, potassium, and flavonoids. A vegetarian diet has also shown to lower blood pressure due to lower sodium intake, to help with diabetes due to the high fiber and complex carbohydrates found in plant foods, and to help in the prevention of some types of cancer.

Why Get Tested For STD’s

by

Unfortunately, in the present society std’s are extremely frequent. Many of these diseases are quite easy to treat, however other folks can be very serious and compromising to your health. This is why it is important that anyone that is sexually active to get tested for STDs. This is equally as crucial for individuals who are in a relationship as it would be for those who aren’t.

Keep in mind that when you’re sleeping with someone, you are not only sleeping with them but with all the others that that each has slept with and you will contract any illnesses the folks your lover has slept with before might have.

You should get examined for sexually transmitted diseases not just for your own advantage but for the benefit of your lovr too. If you are starting a fully commited relationship with another person, you owe it to them to go get tested so you are aware when you have any diseases you’ll want to get treated. This is a terrific way to ensure that you begin to build a healthy and sincere relationship using this person. There are at home test kits STDs which could be used to get tested from your home.

Many individuals think that they do not use a sexually transmitted disease since they have experienced no signs of issues. Several STDs do not display signs for many years and some person experience a lot more slight signs and symptoms than others and may even not understand that particular problems they are having are because of a A Sexually Transmitted Disease. This is the reason everybody, even people who don’t believe these people have a disease should get tested.

Dog Names Guide

by

I have made this comprehensive database of the puppy dog names.

For ease of use I separate male and female names because you either have boy dog or girl dog.

My original goal was to collect as many dog names as possible.

After I had collected about 1000 dog names, I realized that I am adding more and more names that are very rare and in some cases even dumb.

I also realized that I don’t want you to read all those use rare puppy names.

Choosing A Name For Your Dog

Most likely, as 80/20 rule applies, 80% of dog owners would use only 20% of all dog names I’ve collected.

So I decided to change the approach.

Instead of showing you 10,000 dog names without any indication of which names are popular, I cut out 80% and left a little over 1,000 dog names. For example spanish dog names with meanings or Manga dog names.

So what is this new approach about?

Well, you have a good base of 1,000 both male and female dog names and even female dog names with meanings and now I let you to make your preferences.

In the very nearest feature I am adding new functionality to our website that will allow you, our precious dog owner, to submit your own name or vote for any existing name.

So my database becomes alive. Nothing is covered in stone, new names become popular and they’ll be in my database.

For example, after the movie “Matrix” the name Neo became extremely popular and if I had “stale” dog names database than I wouldn’t be able to catch the flowing of time.

Have fun choosing the best name for you puppy and please come later to vote for the dog names you like and leave the comments about them.

Living with Apartment Dogs

by

Living in an apartment alone can be tricky on its own and sometimes it’s more convenient to have a friend or apartment dogs around. However, if you’re new to dog ownership, then there are a few things that you have to remember when you have a pet in your pad. A dog is a pet and it won’t understand regular regulations if you had bunked the place with another human being. Training dogs to live in a small space can become troublesome if you’re not familiar with the breed or the dog’s temperament.

It is advised that you take tips from the vet or the pet shops on how to handle your kind of apartment dogs. More often than not, you’ll have to train him by trial and error. Get to know your pet really well and make sure that you give the treats and punishments when you catch your in the act of doing something good or bad respectively. Dogs are very receptive to training while they’re still young, although some breeds tend to get very excited over a treat; they’re all trainable given the biggest amount of patience.

dog living in apartment

Aside from the training, living with a dog can be very therapeutic. Imagine coming home to your apartment where you’ll be greeted by your dog that is always happy to see you. Dogs can be very sympathetic and can tell if you’re happy or you’re sad and can always act accordingly. Forming bonds with your apartment dog is one of the greatest rewards of having him as a pet, even if it’s just in an apartment.

Remember, as much as it is a pleasure to have apartment dogs around, make sure to tend to their needs as well like taking them on walks and having their regular shots at the vet. These small tasks can give you and your dog a healthy relationship with each other as long as you’re together.

Choosing a perfect dog name

by

Maybe you prefer to find clever dog names from the really old country. Some great Celtic dog names are Arturo (strong as a bear) for your big bear of a dog, Dughall (dark stranger) for the little black puppy you rescued, or Sloan (fighter) for your pit bull, although we know you’re not going to let him fight, right?

You can find clever dog names on television. From the weather channel you can find Storm, Snow, Hurricane, or how about Warning. Flip over to the classic movie channel and you might find an old Godzilla movie with characters such as Mothra, Rodan, or Ghidorah. On the next channel you might tune into a Star Trek show and see Kirk, Vash, Romulan, or a Vulcan. Or the most popular dog names such as the dog names from 101 Dalmatians. The choices are many.

How To Teach Dogs Fetch

by

It’s actually easy. How to teach dogs fetch can be learned from books, videos, or even hiring a professional dog trainer. Dogs basically are animal that live in a pack. A pack needs a leader.

Before you start your dog training of any kind, just remember that you are the leader of the pack. If you can establish leadership, training would be so much easier and fun. Your dog will always follow the pack leader, that is you.

You can actually train and teach your dog at home, without spending hundreds or thousand of dollars. You don’t really need to send him or her to obedience school, you can actually do it yourself – it’s so much fun. Most dog owners have no clue what have to be done, what kind of tools or equipment to start with.

One of the most important thing to prepare is having an effective training method in order for the dog to understand whatever commands you are telling him and carry it out effectively.

How to teach a dog to fetch will be much easier with the right information you can find on Petsium.com.

Dog Throwing Up

by

If you’re a dog owner you’ve probably seen your pet throw up at least once or twice. Chances are you don’t know why your dog is throwing up though and probably find yourself asking “why does my dog throwing up?”

There could be a number of reasons: perhaps the dog ate something disagreeable, they’re coming down with something or maybe they have gastroesophageal (acid) reflux.

In order to prevent your dog from throwing up in the future:

  • Never change their diet unexpectedly
  • When changing a dog’s diet it needs to be a gradual process to prevent them from getting an upset stomach.
  • Don’t give them toys they could swallow
  • Don’t give them dog bones
  • Believe it or not, often times dog bones are the cause of them throwing up.
  • Make sure your dog isn’t digging through the trash
  • Always pay attention to what your dog may be eating.
  • Sometimes when out and about, a muzzle is suggested to ensure you dog doesn’t get into anything that could make them sick.

throwing up in dogs

If your dog does throw up:

  • Remove any food that may be available to them
  • Check to see if they’re in shock or dehydrated
  • Do they have pale skin or gums?
  • Are they acting funny?
  • Have they collapsed or gone unconscious?

Dehydration can be spotted by lightly pulling the dog’s skin if it does not readily return to its original place your dog may be dehydrated. Xerostomia is another sign of dehydration, this is when the dog’s gums become dry and sticky, while the saliva becomes thick.

If the answer is yes to any of these seek vet attention immediately.

The Airedale Terrier Dog Breeds

by

Group: Terrier
Lifespan: 12-15 yrs
Pups per Litter: 3-5
Average Weight: 45-70 lbs
Average Height: 23 inches
Exercise/Activity Level: High
Temperament with: Children

Airedale Terrier dog breed information

The Airedale Terrier is an all-around dog. Its large size and working abilities as well as its very friendly and playful nature earns its label as the king of terriers. Their high level of intelligence makes them easy to pick up commands. They are very good companion dogs and also very protective. This dog can get along with children well, as well as with other pets in the house, given the proper socialization while still young.

Origin and History

The Airedale originated in West Riding, Yorkshire England. The name of dog actually comes from the area of West Riding called the Valley of the Aire, hence the Airedale Terrier. Oddly enough, this dog was bred to hunt otter, so what better way to create a dog that does that exact deed then to add an Otterhound and a Terrier together! The history of the breed shows it a few names, such as the Old English Black and Tan Terrier, the Rough Coated Black and Tan Terrier and the Waterside Terrier. Historically this breed dates back to the 19th century and has become ever more agile and intelligent.

Characteristics

This extremely intelligent dog is very easy to pick-up commands and learns things fast, but it has a tendency to be independent and dominant when not properly trained and socialized. It is considered a very good family dog with its guarding skills and obedience. Airedales are generally good playmates for children but this dog has a tendency to be rough on smaller children whom the dog sees as submissive in the family.

Caring and Nurturing (Haircut, Fur Treatment, Washing…)

Owners should regularly conduct hair stripping for Airedales, to remove dead hairs and prevent it from matting. Three to four times a week brushing is also needed to keep the dog’s hair from tangling. A grooming rake or pin bristle brush is recommended. The long beard should be washed often to remove food trapped into it. Ears and teeth should be checked regularly.

Food

Because Airedale terriers are prone to having dry skin and skin allergies, their food should contain ample amount of omega 3 fatty acids. They can be fed with vegetables, chicken, lamb and beef meat and fish, as well as eggs, cheese and milk. Protein content should not exceed 24%. They also like brown rice and oatmeal as sources of carbohydrates. Fiber content should be less than 4% while fat content should not exceed 20%.

Traits

The Airedale is an extremely intelligent dog and has a very high learning ability. They are responsive and very active making them great guard/watch dogs. As terriers are bred to do, the Airedale hunts small game such as otters and other small animals. This breed is an excellent family dog and is great with small children as they are very tolerant and gentle. They love affection and need a lot of exercise as they are high energy dogs, so regular long walks and preferably an off leash area or backyard to run around in would be ideal.

Appearance

Weighing in at 45- 70 pounds (20-32 kg) and averaging around 23 inches high, the Airedale is known as the “King of Terriers” as it is the largest in the Terrier group. They have either medium or short hair that sheds moderately and heavily during shedding season. The Airedale has a double coat, which is usually a tan color with black markings, or black with tan markings. A white patch on the chest is also noticeable and a slight reddish highlight is present at the back.

The coat is quite wiry and short but doesn’t shed that much! Instead, this dog needs to be stripped of its coat because unlike other breeds that shed regularly or “blow their coats”, this dog does not, so “stripping” the coat is necessary for this breed.

Black and tan are the AKC standards for colouring of this dog. As for the tail of the dog, it is to be docked, which is done quite quickly after birth (3-5 days actually) but isn’t required for the breeds standards. The eyes should be dark and small and the ears should be small and floppy but not out of proportion for the size of the breed.

Health

Unlike some purebred dogs, the Airedale is relatively hearty as its not prone to any genetic diseases except for Hip Dysplasia which is in only some of the blood lines of the breed. As most terriers do, Airedales are prone to dermatitis caused by food and can have thyroid gland problems (either to active or not active enough).

Generally, terriers like the Airedale are healthy dog breeds. But like other dogs, they are also prone to hip dysplasia, gastric torsion, skin allergies, and eye problems.

Training

This dog excels in training as they are agile, responsive, intelligent and strong. Agility, hunting, and obedience would be fun for both the owner and the dog as these are the breeds strongest abilities! This dog is easy to medium level for owner training and constancy is the key!

Training should be done in a positive and consistent way. Though this dog is intelligent, trainers often find it hard to train them because of their slow process of maturity. However, Airedales are very good in obedience training. They should also be taught not to jump on people when excited or happy.

Care

For this breed, stripping of the coat is necessary because they don’t shed as regularly as some other dogs do. Stripping is done by a groomer who takes a serrated knife and pulls out the loose fur. As for the tail of the dog, it is usually docked ( meaning to be shortened by way of surgery) and this is done at around 3-5 days after birth! The breed standard states that this is not necessary as it is somewhat a controversial subject of owners and dog fanatics.

Breed

The breed is categorized in the Terrier Group. They are ideal family dogs and would do the best in either a big apartment or a house that has a big backyard. The Airedale Terriers average life span is between 12-15 years. They have about 5-12 pups per litter. When obtaining a baby Airedale Terrier, keep in mind that every puppy is different and to research your breed before bringing the baby home!

Chihuahua Dog Breed

by

Group: Toy
Lifespan: 15 Years
Pups per Litter: 1-4
Average Weight: 2-6 lbs.
Average Height: 6-9 inches
Exercise/Activity Level: High
Temperament with: Children

chihuahua dog breed information

History

The Chihuahua originated in Chihuahua, Mexico. This breed is the smallest dog that exists today and some lines when they become full grown, will fit standing up, in the palm of a persons hand. They became popular all over the world due to people who traveled to different countries and continents with this breed and distributed them.

Traits

The Chihuahua is a sweet little companion breed of dog that is for that purpose solely, companionship. They are loyal and affectionate to their owner and only them. Chihuahuas are known well for their cheeky attitude and entertaining personality and they prove that the smaller the dog does not equal the smaller the personality. They do not do particularly well with other dogs as every other dog is going to be larger than they are, and do not do well with young children as they are the size of toys.

Appearance

Weighing in at a whopping 2-6 lbs (1-3 kgs) and averaging 6-9 inches high, the Chihuahua is a small bundle of energy with a large head! They have an “apple shaped” head that looks to big for their body. The Chihuahua’s coat comes in two varieties, short & smooth, and long haired. The colours for the coat, come in blue, silver, fawn, and black & tan. Their eyes are small and dark and their ears are large and pricked upward. The Chihuahua’s body is small structured and their legs are frail. Their tail is thin yet slightly curves to the back.

Health

The Chihuahua is prone to Molera, which is a condition of the skull not connecting together, leaving a soft spot on the head, also Corneal dryness and wheezing occur with some. As a precaution, owners need to be constantly on their guard as these little guys have small bone that are frail and will break easily. They are also prone to slipped Stifles and the common doggie cold!

Training

The Chihuahua is an intelligent little dog! They need very gentle and consistent training and with this, will do well as adults. They need to be socialized well as pups, especially with other dogs and people because the breed is notorious for being weary those they do not know. They are also one of the tougher breeds to housetrain as they can be a bit stubborn.

Care

The Chihuahua is a lower maintenance dog. The short haired variety only needs to be brushed weekly, and the long haired variety needs to be brushed daily just to avoid tangles and mats. Bathing should be done about once every month or two and special attention should be brought to their ears to ensure they are clean.

Breed

This breed is categorized in the Toy Group. They will do well in an apartment as they do not require a household of space as they are quite tiny. The Chihuahua will need to be walked daily, not carried around. It is important that they get to have physical activity as well, even if they are small. The lifespan of the Chihuahua is around 15 years. They have on average 1-4 pups per litter and it is not uncommon for the mother to have a cesarean section, as these puppies will have large heads. When obtaining a puppy Chihuahua, keep in mind that every puppy is different and to research your breed before bringing the baby home!

Bullmastiff Dog Breed

by

Group: Working
Lifespan: 10 Years
Pups per Litter: 4-13
Average Weight: 100-133 lbs
Average Height: 24-27 inches
Exercise/Activity Level: Low
Temperament with: Children

bull mastiff dog breed information

History

The Bullmastiff were originally bred in the United Kingdom. They were created by mixing Bulldogs with Mastiffs. They were bred for the use of game keepers and were taught to fight off poachers in a daunting manner but trained to not harm them when doing so.

Traits

The Bullmastiff is a sweet, loving companion breed that is protective of their family. They have a great disposition and are calm dogs. They are known to be great with children but need socialization with dogs and other family pets from puppy hood. Bull Mastiffs, despite their size are sensitive dogs. They are extremely loyal to their family and will guard the house in a flash. They are known as watchful dogs and wouldn’t hurt an intruder but will pin and hold them, as they were bred to do with poachers.

Appearance

Weighing in at 100-133 lbs (45-60 kgs) and averaging 24-27 inches high, the Bullmastiff is an impressive dog. They are muscular and powerful dogs that have an intimidating look but their personality is the opposite. The Bullmastiffs eyes are of medium size and are alert, and their nose is large with wide nostrils. They have a large head and their jaw displays an under bite. The coat is short and hard and is either red, fawn or brindle and the face/muzzle should be black. The Bullmastiffs legs are muscular and their tail is long and comes to a point.

Health

The Bull Mastiff is prone to Hip Dysplasia, Cancer, tumors and bloat. When feeding this breed, feed smaller portioned meals a few times a day rather then one or two larger meals to prevent stomach torsion from happening. They are also prone to Progressive Retinal Atrophy.

Training

The Bullmastiff will need very firm and consistent training as early as possible. They do not require harsh training as they are a sensitive breed, just an owner who can be the leader and teach this dog their place in the family. They need to have an owner who is experienced either with this breed or in obedience as this dog can be dominant. They will also need to be socialized at pup hood, especially around other dogs and people.

Care

The Bull Mastiff is a low maintenance dog. They have a short coat and are average shedders, so weekly brushing will be good. They should be bathed according to the owners discretion and should have their nails clipped regularly as they are carrying around a lot of weight and with long nails, can be painful as explained on Petsium.

Breed

This breed is categorized in the Working Group. They would do well in apartments if they are exercised regularly. They are not as active inside so will not need a house to roam around in. A yard or even access to a park would be perfect for this breed. The average lifespan of the Bullmastiff is around 10 years and under. They have on average 4-13 pups per litter. When obtaining a puppy Bullmastiff, keep in mind that every puppy is different and to research your breed before bringing the baby home!