Halloween Parade’s Main Attraction is Squeaky Clean Puli Costume

Dogue De Bordeaux

Dogue de Bordeaux Basics An ideal guard dog for anyone with experience in handling and training dogs, the Dogue de Bordeaux – also known as the French Mastiff or the Bordeaux Bulldog – has the versatility of being a strong, fearless guard but also having gentleness around the house, including with children. Like other guard dogs, it will need to be raised in a way that socializes it with other dogs and with people so that it understands who represents a real threat and who does not. As a large dog, it can be intimidating for some, especially children, but generally the personality of this dog is very calm provided it doesn’t feel anyone is infringing on the household. Teaching the dog to be relaxed around strangers you welcome will be important, and you just may find that this unique, heavy dog becomes a neighborhood hit. And you’ll definitely feel safe with a Dogue de Bordeaux in your presence – so that’s not an issue. When many people imagine French dogs, the Dogue de Bordeaux is not what they have in mind. But when it comes to the breed you’re interested in, this might be exactly what you had in mind. Let’s learn more about this “Bordeaux Bulldog.” The Dogue de Bordeaux has the versatility of being a strong, fearless guard but also having gentleness around the house. Origin The translation of Dogue de Bordeaux could perhaps be described as “Bordeaux Mastiff,” but it is also known as a French Mastiff in areas outside of the country, particularly in America. As for its historical origins, the translations are not so clear. Many think the Dogue de Bordeaux could have descended from the Tibetan Mastiff and the Bulldog – which would certainly make the nickname “Bordeaux Bulldog” more appropriate. Dogs in the Middle Ages in the Aquitaine region may have also been ancestors to the modern Dogue de Bordeaux, and by the end of the Middle Ages, its use as a companion and guard dog was more frequent. Although the Dogue de Bordeaux took a heavy hit during the French Revolution, it regained its numbers throughout the years and a man named Raymond Triquet helped it to survive by taking the breed under his wing. The dog’s very tough history includes use in war, guardianship, and even training in hunting large game like bears, bulls, and jaguars. It was only recognized by the American Kennel Club in 2008.

Bichon Frise

Bichon Frise Basics Just when you think you’ve gotten all the dog breeds figured out, you take a look at a dog that looks like a Maltese and find out that it’s not a Maltese at all – it’s actually a Bichon Frise. Fantastic! More time studying dog breeds is clearly called for, which means you get to expand your knowledge of pets just a little more. Okay, so maybe not everyone likes homework. With that in mind, let’s get it all out of the way and focus on this curious dog known as the Bichon Frise, French for “curly white lap dog.” Hey, the French are nothing if not a little bit literal. This dog can be considered a large toy dog and, while it looks similar to the Maltese, does have some distinctions that make it a breed in and of itself. And although the fluffy white coat can intimidate potential dog owners who don’t like the idea of a lot of grooming, the Bichon Frise is surprisingly low-maintenance, meaning that they’re not big shedders and won’t be a hamper on that roommate of yours with dog allergies. Convinced that the Bichon Frise is a unique breed worthy of study yet? Good. Because we’re about to focus on the individual characteristics of this French breed that will help you to understand why so many people walk around with Maltese-looking dogs that actually have all the positive qualities of that other breed, the Bichon Frise. This curious dog is known as the Bichon Frise, French for “curly white lap dog.” Origin The Bichon Frise is, predictably, a French breed. As you can glean from the root word “Bich,” the name of the dog has its root in quite literal and old French translations. Like the Maltese, the different Bich breeds came from the Mediterranean area and have a long history throughout the Europe and European trade. Sailors would bring similar breeds around with them and, thanks to its cheerful personality, these dogs would be a hit, especially in locations like Spain. Later on, Italian nobility found these breed types to be very enjoyable and no doubt gave them plenty of lap time. This background in sailing can still be evidence as the breed can sometimes enjoy swimming and retrieving, although the Bichon Frise is certainly not a hunting or retrieval dog. Throughout history, the Bichon Frise has enjoyed French attention from the courts of Napoleon III to the streets of Paris. The breed was formally recognized in the recent centuries just as many dog breeds have been. Pedigree

Poodle

Poodle Basics When you think of a poodle, what kind of dog do you think of? Many of us immediately imagine the Toy Poodle. However, that is only one of the many types of Poodle out there. Sure, the Toy Poodle is iconic, but as a breed, the Poodle has a surprising amount of variety and versatility. Poodles can be athletic, rambunctious, energetic – just about anything under the sun. At least relative to the expectations of Poodles that many people bring to the table. People are far too willing to put the Poodle in a box of limited expectations. The Poodle deserve more respect than that. They are such a rich and exciting dog breed filled with possibilities. Hopefully over time, The Poodle will finally get the respect that they deserve as one of the most exciting, versatile, and intelligent dog breeds around. The Poodle is an extremely smart dog, ranking second only below the Border Collie as the most intelligent dog breed. They are highly-trainable and make excellent service and therapy dogs. As family pets and companions, these popular dogs are loving, playful and even a bit mischievous. You’ll never be bored with a Poodle by your side. In fact, you’ll have to keep an eye on your Poodle companion to make sure that they don’t use those big and powerful brains to get up to trouble. While a lot of people might think of Poodles as the epitome of a lapdog with an elaborate hairstyle, these dogs come in all sizes- from toy to standard Poodles that weigh up to 70 pounds. If you want to find out which type of Poodle is the right one for you- or if the breed is a good match for your family in the first place- read on. As you may have gathered by now, there are so many different types of Poodles out there that almost impossible that that there won’t be one that can fit into your lifestyle. As a breed, this dog has a surprising amount of variety and versatility. Origin The Poodle might seem like a posh show dog, but these dogs actually started out as working dogs (generally as water retrievers, or “gun dogs”). Their original role was to assist hunters in retrieving waterfowl (such as ducks) from the water. Their curly coat, which is now primped up for dog shows, was valued for its moisture-resistant qualities. The German word “pudel,” in fact, actually refers to all the splashing these pips would get up to during any hunt. The English word “Poodle” was derived from it. Even though the breed originated in 19th century Germany, the standard was perfected in France, which considers Poodle to be a national dog breed. These dogs are now known primarily as show dogs and pets. Selective breeding had a great deal to do with this change in perception. There are three varieties of Poodle, and according to the American Kennel Club, the oldest of these varieties is the large or ‘Standard’ variety. The Poodle was bred to have a water-resistant coat – which helps explain the quality of the current dog’s coat – that was eventually groomed and patterned according to taste and style rather than worrying simply about functionality. Other types of Poodle today include Toy and Miniature. Although they retain the main traits of their full-sized relatives, their compact size makes them a perfect fit for condo and apartment dwellers. They are generally quite well behaved pooches who can get on well within a small space and can be left alone for extended periods of time without causing too much trouble. Other types of Poodle today include Toy and Miniature. Pedigree

Belgian Malinois

Belgian Malinois Basics If you don’t stop and look twice, you might confuse the Belgian Malinois with a really tough-looking German Shepherd. That would be a big mistake and an unfair burden to put on the Belgian Malinois. Although they both hail from the same general region of Europe, there are some key differences between the breeds that you’ll want to be aware of. Considered good as a guard or police dog, the Belgian Malinois actually looks like the police of the dog world, strong and square and certainly ready for action. He’s a pupper authority figure. Ready to keep all other dogges in line. While the Belgian Malinois can be incredibly loyal and even obedient, they’re definitely not a dog for someone who isn’t able to demonstrate authority over a dog. If you’re a particularly passive owner who prefers a dog who develops its own personality naturally, the Belgian Malinois is probably not for you. They can be territorial and while not always aggressive, they’ll need proper training and socialization from a young age to bring out their innate friendliness and general cooperation. This is not an an ideal pet for a first time dog owner. It takes a certain type of owner to keep up. Are you that type of owner? There’s only one way to find out. Keep your eyes glued to this page and scroll away. All will be revealed. By the end of this article, you’ll either be running out to bring home a Belgian Malinois or frantically searching for a different dog. So what are you waiting for? Read on… If you don’t stop and look twice, you might confuse the Belgian Malinois with a really tough-looking German Shepherd. Origin One of four Belgian sheep dogs – that is, dogs commonly used to herd sheep – the Belgian Malinois is actually far more popular in its home country of Belgium than it is in the U.S., even despite the relative popularity of the German Shepherd. Hard to believe, but true. While there are three other breeds of Belgian sheep dogs, many have considered them all the same breed with minimal differences, such as the color of their coat. Even so, the Belgian Malinois gained American Kennel Club recognition as a breed in its own right in 1959. The breed is just that well respected. In the United Kingdom, however, the more European way of acknowledging this dog as part of a larger breed is still adopted. This can make for some confusion between the two continents, but when you see a Belgian Malinois, there can be little mistaking that you’re looking at a very serious dog indeed. Pedigree

Bringing A Dog Home From the Shelter – What To Expect The First Day

Congratulations on the new addition to your family! Bringing a dog home from a shelter can be an emotional and stressful event- here are some expert tips to make the transition as smooth as possible. Congratulations! You’ve just adopted a dog from the shelter. But the excitement doesn’t stop there – the first day home is an emotional one for the humans and a stressful one for the shelter dog. Even if the change is a great one, it’s still a big change, and it can have an impact on your new pet’s behavior. The air of excitement and the new period of adjustment can even catch you unprepared and lead you to make some beginner’s mistakes when it comes to welcoming a new dog into the household. However, there are a few things you can do when bringing a dog home from the shelter that will make the first few days in your dog’s new home happy and calming, as well as help to establish your place as pack leader. Ease them into it We know that the first thing you want to do when bringing a dog home from the shelter is to shower your new pooch with hugs and kisses. But hold off. Yes, a hug to humans conveys love and acceptance, but to a dog, it signals dominance and invasion of space. Give him some space until he has gotten to know you a bit better… then let the loving commence! This usually takes a couple of days, but as soon as your dog is comfortable in a new situation, they’ll be up for cuddles. Don’t force your new shelter dog into uncomfortable situations and take things slowly – you have many happy years ahead for the both of you. However, just because you don’t want to signal overwhelming dominance to your new pet, it doesn’t mean that you shouldn’t establish yourself as the leader of the pack right away. Being firm and confident will not only help you train your dog later on, but it will actually help your dog feel more comfortable around you. Tone it down a notch or two On the day that you’re bringing a dog home from the shelter, we’re going to ask you to do something you might not expect – don’t bring him inside (just yet). This is an eventful day and it’s likely that your shelter dog will be full of energy. After you park the car, take your new dog for a walk to burn off some of that excess energy. In addition to helping him burn off that excitement-generated energy, a walk will also give your dog to unwind and relax a bit before being introduced to his new home. As well, you’ll be establishing yourself as the pack leader – just be sure the dog stays beside or behind you on the walk. A walk around the neighborhood is a great way to introduce your pup to his new surroundings, and it gives him a chance to give the area a good sniffing. Give them the apartment tour Now it’s time to go inside. But don’t just let your new shelter dog off the leash to investigate his new home. You’re the pack leader, remember? It’s your job to set down the rules right from the start. You go through doors and entranceways first, followed by the dog. Lead the dog around your home on a leash, going from room to room (you always taking the lead and going in first). Spend about 10 minutes in each room, letting him sniff around. Be sure that other family members don’t come rushing at the dog with kisses and hugs (we established why earlier in the article). Other family members should greet the dog calmly, not talking to him and letting him sniff them. Gradual introductions are best in any case, especially with shelter dogs, You might not know their past, but it’s likely to have been a ruff one if they ended up surrendered to a shelter. This is why it’s best to keep their stress of meeting new people to a minimum and give them time to adjust to all the changes before expecting them to become a social butterfly. Prepare a safe haven beforehand Your dog’s bed or crate should be set up before bringing a dog home. Save his area for the last stop on the tour. Give him a chance to sniff it and leave a few bones or treats out for him – that way, the dog will always see this as a positive place. If your dog is calm at this time, you can start petting and showing him affection. Rub his head, belly or back, but resist giving him a hug just yet. It’s very important that your dog is calm for this part. If he is still hyper, take him for another walk to help tire him out. A cozy corner of your home where your rescue dog can retreat for some alone time is absolutely crucial. If things get too overwhelming and he feels like he needs a timeout, a comfy bed in the corner of the room or a reassuring nest that can be a furnished crate are just what he needs to relax. Once you’ve commenced the tour of the house and he’s been introduced to the other family members, feel free to give your shelter dog some food and water. Also, be sure to take frequent bathroom breaks until you’ve established a routine. Going to sleep Your first day of excitement is not over yet- it’s time for your dog to sleep in their new home for the first time. It can be hard for a dog to relax and go to sleep somewhere where they are not accustomed to, but the fact they’ll be knackered from all the excitement works in your favor. However, sleeping arrangements will still require a bit of an effort from your side. Most people opt for setting up a crate for their rescue’s first night in their home, even if they are not planning on crating their dog in the future. Not only that a crate will ensure that your new family member doesn’t go out and make a mess of things while he’s still adjusting, but it will also give him a sense of safety and security to have a secluded nook to curl up in. You can even place the crate in your bedroom if you want him to know you’re nearby and there’s nothing to be afraid of. Consider Fido’s Fuel In all likelihood, you’ll be getting your new furry best friend used to food and treats he may not be used to. If you want to continue to feed him the food he was eating with his breeder or the shelter/rescue, what-have-you, that’s fine. But it’s likely you’ll want to switch it up and you’ll want to be careful about how you do. According to the AKC, if you switch your dog’s food too quickly, you may see him suffer from signs of gastrointestinal distress. This could look like vomiting, diarrhea or even a lack of desire to eat. It could also look like him wanting to wolf everything he can down because he’s simply not absorbing enough nutrients from what he is eating. The AKC recommends the following schedule (if at all possible and you have access to the current/old food) for switching a dog’s food when you first get them: Day 1: 25% new diet and 75% old diet.Day 3: 50% new diet and 50% old diet.Day 5: 75% new diet and 25% old diet.Day 7: 100% new diet. This will also be the time you learn about your dog’s sensitivities, as if this timeframe doesn’t seem to do the trick, you may need to give him a bit longer of an adjustment as you mix the foods. You will never go wrong supplementing with a great probiotic/fiber/digestive enzyme supplement to keep gastrointestinal distress down and increase his overall gut health quality. Mostly, you’ll want to watch how he does, and make sure that he adjusts to the new change well. If it seems he adjusts too well, and eats like he’s never eaten before, you may want to look at feeders that will slow that gulping down. Dogs who eat too quickly can deal with issues like regurgitation too. If you’ve rescued your dog from the shelter, odds are they’re not used to not worrying about food, so they may have a propensity to wolf it down. At the end of the day, bringing a new dog into your home and life is something different for the both of you. But it’s something different that’s PAWESOME and you can totally do it. Just follow these tips and remember that every transition is just that–a transition. It’s not permanent and once he (and you) settles into routine? It’ll be like he’d always been there!

Are There Dog Supplements That Can Help Shedding?

Are you waist deep in fur balls? Are you tired of finding fur on your clothes, in your food, attached to the furniture? You are not alone. Many doggo owners are battling that age-old fur battle. It’s the simple truth – some dogs shed more than others, and you will have to deal with all the excess hair. But not to worry, because we have good news – there are a few supplement ideas that may reduce shedding.

Californian Rabbit

Californian Rabbit Breed History/Origin The Californian Rabbit breed was developed in the 1923 by George West of California. His plan was to develop a breed with the “perfect” meat as well as a dense, desirable coat. After five years of breeding, he developed a small, chinchilla-colored male by crossing a Himalayan white with Chinchillas. The buck was bred with several of West’s New Zealand rabbits to increase their size, and so the Californian Rabbit was born. West gave a few of his stock to two trusted Southern California breeders and together, they perfected the breed. The Californian rabbit was first shown as a breed in 1928, its first appearance at an American Rabbit Breeders Association (ARBA) convention in 1932 and became a recognized breed in 1939. Today, Californian rabbits are only surpassed in popularity by the New Zealand whites.  The Californian Rabbit makes a great pet because of its mild temperament. Overall Description

Dalmadoodle

Dalmadoodle Basics The unique Dalmadoodle also goes by a few other names: Dalmapoo, Dalmatiandoodle, and Dalmatianpoo. Mixing the looks and personality traits of the Dalmatian and the Poodle, these intelligent, loyal, and loving dogs make wonderful companions. Before you bring home one of these cute pooches, though, you should learn about their needs so you’ll know what to expect. Mixing the looks and personality traits of the Dalmatian and the Poodle, these intelligent, loyal, and loving dogs make wonderful companions. Origin

10 Most Affectionate Rabbit Breeds

If you want a friendly, cuddly rabbit that will enjoy petting and spending time in your lap, there are a few things you need to consider before adopting one. The most important thing is to realize that socialization and your relationship with your pet to be are crucial if you want them to be sweet and snuggly: as prey animals, most rabbits have a tendency to be skittish and fearful, so you’ll need to be gentle with them and take it slow. Don’t expect them to be relaxed and affectionate straight away – they need a bit of time to warm up to you and realize they are safe by your side.Next, the rabbit breed also plays a role in a rabbit’s temperament. Some breeds are friendlier than others, simply because they have been bred to be companions or show rabbits, so they are well accustomed to human contact and handling. In case you’re unsure which are the most affectionate rabbit breeds out there, we’ve rounded up some of the sweetest, friendliest rabbits around to help you make your decision.  

Is It Okay to Have Sex in Front of Your Dog?

Birds do it, bees do it – hey, it’s natural! But it can be hard to do when someone is watching you. That’s why you may ask if it’s okay to have sex in front of your dog. Your dog is your best friend and you are his. He loves you more than he loves anything in the world, so you shouldn’t be surprised if he acts a little possessive from time to time. But some dogs take it too far. For some dogs, even the simple act of someone hugging their owner can seem like a threat. Dogs don’t always understand human body language or our actions, so they can easily be confused. But how does your dog feel when you’re having sex? What does he make of it all? Keep reading to find out. Related: Planned Parenthood Uses Pussycats For New Sex Education Videos What is Your Dog Thinking? If you’re a pet owner, you’ve probably had experiences where your dog showed up in the middle of a situation at an inconvenient time. Perhaps it’s when you’ve just cleaned the floor and he chooses that moment to run across it with muddy paws. Things like this happen but you probably aren’t concerned about it, much less bothered by it. But when you find your dog staring at you having sex, it can be a little unsettling. Related: Having the Awkward Talk About Cats Humping Though your dog may not understand exactly what you’re doing, he has some sense of what’s happening and could react in one of several ways. Animal communication experts suggest that dogs see sex as an exchange of energy and, perhaps more importantly, as a redirection of your attention away from the dog and onto someone else. For some dogs, this can trigger jealousy or incite some kind of territorial reaction. That’s when your dog starts to act a little creepy. For some dogs, they just see sex as a form of activity or play that they want to be part of. So, they jump on the bed or whine at you until you give in and give them the attention they’re craving. What Should You Do? If you don’t like having your dog around while you have sex, simply close the bedroom door or put him in another room. This is a simple enough solution that works well in most cases. In other cases, however, the dog can become very territorial and protective of his owner, sometimes going so far as to step into the moment and try to break things up. If this happens on a regular basis, you may need to consult an animal behavior expert to work with your dog. Generally speaking, there is nothing wrong with having sex in front of your dog. What really matters is now you feel about it. If it doesn’t bother you and if it doesn’t seem to bother your dog, there’s no reason to make a change. If your dog starts becoming dominant or territorial, however, that is another matter and an issue you may need to address. Sometimes it’s difficult for dog owners to understand their dog’s behavior. Put yourself in your dog’s shoes for a moment and consider what he might be thinking when he sees you having sex. Perhaps you’d rather not think about it at all, but you should still know that your dog isn’t getting any kind of strange enjoyment out of it – he’s simply curious or concerned.

Florida White Rabbit

Florida White Rabbit Breed History/Origin Judge Orville Miliken wanted to develop an “all-purpose” rabbit, which meant the rabbit had to be show-worthy, have a high-quality coat, ample meat as well as have the docile qualities of a good pet rabbit. Another reason for the breed’s creation is that Mr. Miliken realized that laboratories that were using New Zealand rabbits as test subjects would prefer their rabbits to be smaller, so he tried to meet their need by creating a new breed of rabbit. The judge mated an albino Dutch, a red-eyed-white Polish rabbit and a white New Zealand rabbit back in the 1960s in order to create a new breed he aptly named after his home state of Florida. It was accepted into the American Rabbit Breeders Association (ARBA) in 1967 and ten years later, the Florida White Rabbit won its first “Best in Show” (BIS) at an ARBA convention. While primarily developed for its potential commercial purposes, the Florida White Rabbit quickly became a popular pet. Today, the majority of these bunnies live in homes, as family members and cherished companions. Read on to find out if the Florida White Rabbit is a good choice for you! The Florida White rabbit is a wonderful pet for practically any stage of a person’s life. Overall Description The Florida White rabbit is a relatively small rabbit with a round, compact body and a short neck. Their body type is commercial and the appearance of their body is the most important for show judges. A Florida White Rabbit should weight between 4 and 6 pounds, be fine-boned buy with a well-developed body. Their thick ears are not large and generally stand upright, but can fall on either side of their small, round heads. Hindquarters, back, and shoulders are well muscled, especially for such a small rabbit. The hind part of their body is somewhat wider than it is at the shoulders. Coat

Kangal Dog

Kangal Dog BasicsThe Kangal Dog is a large and powerful breed, often used in Turkey to guard livestock against predators. This dog is easily recognized by its massive head, dark muzzle, and curled tail which is carried up and over the back. When viewed from the side, the Kangal has a distinctive silhouette. It’s no challenge to pick this dog out from a lineup, there aren’t any pups out there quite like it.But don’t let the Kangal Dog’s imposing physique intimidate you. Appearances can be deceiving and this majestic breed is the true definition of a gentle giant. While they are alert and make ideal watchdogs or guard dogs, there’s not an ounce of aggressiveness or viciousness in the Kangal Dog. These fierce guardians have a peaceful nature and serene demeanor. When push comes to shove, they would rather block the intruder than actually attack them, like some other guard dog breeds. This isn’t a dog for anyone simply seeking protection. Nope, despite what you might think at first glance, the Kangal dog is more about love and protection than fear and intimidation.It goes without saying that you should only get a Kangal Dog if you have a space for one. These dogs need a lot of space, and a house with a big, securely fenced yard is the ideal setting for them. Owners need to be experienced dog owners who understand clearly the proper ways to manage and correct bad behavior in a Kangal. If this dog is subject to negative corrections (spanking or other poor training methods), a typical Kangal will not tolerate being treated this way, leading to a total failure for the dog and family as well.So, is The Kangal Dog the big burly boy that you need to bring home to your family? You’ve come to the right place to find out. Keep your eyes glued to this page and scroll away. We are about to reveal everything that there is to know about this beautiful breed. By the end, you’ll know whether or not you need one of these big boys in your life.The Kangal Dog is a large and powerful breed, often used in Turkey to guard livestock against predators.OriginThough there is some debate regarding the details of this breed’s origins, the Kangal Dog is known to come from Turkey where it was used as an ancient flock-guarding breed. The Kangal is thought to have descended from various mastiff-type dogs such as those depicted in ancient Assyrian art. This breed gets its name from the Kangal District of Sivas Province in Turkey and this location is also likely where it originated. Throughout its history, the Kangal has been associated with the Aga of Kangal, a large family of landholders and chieftains that use the dogs to guard flocks against large predators such as bears, jackals and wolves. This breed’s history as protectors is legendary.The first mention of the Kangal Dog in European literature during the late 1900s. In 1985, David and Judith Nelson brought their Kangal to the United States where it, along with other imports, served as the foundation stock for the Kangal Dog in the U.S. There continues to be some debate regarding whether the Kangal Dog is actually a separate breed from the Anatolian Shepherd, another Turkish breed. It is commonly accepted, however, that true Kangal Dogs are a separate breed from generic Turkish shepherd dogs. So, at least that statement carries no controversy.Pedigree

Pitsky

Pitsky BasicsDo you want a unique-looking, energetic, and bold dog? Then the Pitsky just might be the right breed for you. This designer dog is a handsome and muscular cross between an American Pitbull Terrier and a Siberian or Alaskan Husky. They are perfect for people who love either of those popular breeds. They are an especially appealing option for husky-lovers who live in warm climates that aren’t ideal for purebred huskies. Owing to their parental breeds, Pitskies are spirited and smart, but also demanding dogs. They do best in high energy households and require lots of exercise.Ontop of all of that, both his mom and dad need an experienced owner, so their offspring is no different. With the wrong person by his side, a Pitsky can be stubborn, unmanageable, and even aggressive, so it’s important to train and socialize them in a timely manner. Pitskies might be wonderful designer dogs, but they are not a viable option for first time dog owners. They need experienced owners who can handle the occasionally tough responsibilities inherit in raising a Pitsky.As a mixed breed dog, the Pitsky will inherit traits from both of his parents, so there’s no way to predict how they’ll look once they grow up. Pitskies are unique in appearance, and no two of them look the same. Pitskies can be any color, have short or long hair, stand up or floppy ears, and even carry on the blue eyes common in huskies. One thing is certain, though: you’ll fall in love with these puppies as soon as you lay your eyes on one. Of course, even though they are undeniably cute and have a lovable temperament, the Pitskies are not a good match for every family. Read on to find out if this designer dog breed is the right choice for you! All the info that you’ll need is below. Simply keep your eyes glued to this page and scroll away to discover if you’ll be bringing home a Pitsky anytime soon.The Pitsky is a handsome, muscular cross between an American Pitbull Terrier and a Siberian or Alaskan Husky.OriginThe origin of the Pitsky is unknown. Husky and pitbull mix dogs have been around for decades, but it’s not until recently that they became a product of intentional breeding. No breeder currently claims that they were the ones to start producing Pitskies first. However, it’s highly likely that the breed came to be during the peak of designer dogs craze. In the last 20 years, crossbreeds have been becoming more popular, so it’s probable that this is the timeframe in which someone decided to cross huskies to pitbulls in an effort to create a new designer dog breed. Unfortunately, there’s not really any other information about the origin of the Pitsky. Like most designer dogs, no one really bothered to document their history. All we can do is feel grateful that they exist.Pedigree

Maltichon

Maltichon BasicsCute, fluffy, and loving- the Maltichon will make your heart melt. Maltichon, or Maltese Frise, as it is also known, is a very popular designer dog breed, and with good reason. These beautiful dogs were developed by crossing the Maltese and Bichon Frise, two well-loved toy breeds. At first glance, these two white-haired, small dogs look a lot alike, but each of the parental breeds brings something unique to the mix. It’s not often that the puppies inherit only the best traits from their mom and dad, but the Maltichon is as close to being the best of both worlds as a designer dog can get.Of course, while its lovely appearance plays a role in its popularity, it’s not the only reason why the Maltichon is a sought-after breed. But not only that – the breed is popular because of its great personality as well! They are quirky, fun, energetic, and very affectionate. What’s not to like!? Perfectly suited to life in an apartment, these petite pooches get along with everybody and adapt to any family. Children, other pets, seniors, or singles- the Maltichon will fit in with ease. If you are looking for a family-friendly canine companion that will do well in an apartment setting and bring a bit of fun into the daily grind, you can’t go wrong with a Maltichon. Let’s learn more about these fun doggos.OriginIt’s not often that the origin of a designer dog breed is known. For the majority of these hybrid breeds, it’s impossible to pinpoint an exact time and place of their creation. Of course, there have surely been many accidental pairings of the Maltese and the Bichon Frise, but their intentional crossbreeding is a fairly new occurrence. It’s highly likely that the first litters of purposely bred Maltichon puppies came to be in the United States, sometime in the last twenty years. That is when many designer dog breeds that we know and love have come to be. Granted, we might not know much about the history of each of the designer dog breeds, but the origin of their purebred parents can tell us a lot about their offspring. For the Maltichon, it’s easy to see how these mixed breed puppies are bound to be ideal companions for families. Both the Bichon Frise and Maltese have been treasured as pets and lap dogs for centuries- the Maltese is even considered to be the oldest European toy breed known to man. Their long histories were bound to come together at one point – the end result is the wonderful Maltichon. Pedigree

Chihuahua

Chihuahua Basics There are few dogs out there who more iconic than the Chihuahua. The ultimate purse dog. Pups so small and adorable that many owners sadly treat them more like accessories than pets. You may have recognized this breed from its presence on the big and small screen – Bruiser from the movie “Legally Blonde” and the Taco Bell dog are two of the most famous examples (not to mention Paris Hilton regularly posing with one and claiming it was her pet). Perhaps you fell in love with the breed after watching the movie “Beverly Hills Chihuahua” (it happens, we won’t judge!). No matter how you became a fan of the tiny Chihuahua dog, once you’ve owned one, you’ll be hooked on the breed for life. These little pups are just that lovable. With their goofy antics, a sparky character, and plenty of attitude, these doggos have a ton of unique traits that make them a great companion. People of all personalities can find something that will attract them to this dog breed. Sporting a large head, expressive eyes and a friendly disposition, the Chihuahua fits into the lifestyle of many types of households. You wouldn’t know to look at it, but the Chihuahua makes an excellent watchdog – of course, you shouldn’t expect it to protect you from any threat (even though many rodents could easily over power this pup). So, is the Chihuahua the right pet to join your family? There’s only one way to find out. Read on to learn more about this fantastic breed. We are about to reveal everything that it is worth knowing about the finest toy dog to ever come out of Mexico. Sporting a large head, expressive eyes and a friendly disposition, the Chihuahua fits into the lifestyle of many types of households. Origin Delving into the Chihuahua’s history, historians can make a good guess at how this breed came to be, although as with most dog breed histories, it is hard to verify. What we do know is that the breed is named after a Mexican city and was first seen around the Aztec era. Even though it is named after a particular city, the Chihuahua was likely plentiful all over the country. And you can consider the Chihuahua an ancient breed – it can be dated as far back as 500 A.D. This dog dives deep into the annals of Mexican history. There’s a reason the pup is such a beloved export from that country. In a way, the Chihuahua is part of the foundation of modern Mexico. The evolution of the Chihuahua can be such an interesting glimpse into the overall development of dog breeds in South America. After ancient peoples colonized this continent far back in history, the primitive dogs that accompanied them were isolated from any outside influence. The interbreeding that occurred over the following millenia led to quite a unique genetic footprint – and that is why Chihuahuas are so unique in looks and character! As such, they share many similarities with the other popular ancient dog breed from Mexico – the Xoloitzcuintli. Together, they held an important place in the culture and society of the ancient inhabitants of Mexico, such as the Aztecs. Pedigree

Westiepoo

Westiepoo Basics There are many reasons why breeders pair together breeds to create hybrid pups. However, the most popular of these dogs tend to be created due to a combination of adorable aesthetics and a lovable personality. The Westiepoo is one such hybrid. A designer dog so unbelievably beautiful and charming that the little balls of fluff are impossible to resist. A fluffy, cute pooch with a fantastic personality, the Westiepoo is among the more popular designer dog breeds for good reason. This sturdy little hybrid is a happy, family oriented dog that loves to be around others and gets along famously with household pets and older kids. He’s a terrific companion dog and his compact stature and minimal shedding make him a great fit for apartment dwellers. In other words, this is a dog that will fit into almost any home with ease. Why is this dog such a crowdpleaser? It’s all thanks to this beloved doggo’s unique lineage. Also known as Westiepoo, Westiedoodle or Wee-Poo this designer dog breed hails from quite special origins. His parents are the West Highland White Terrier and the toy (or miniature) Poodle. This combination of two small, smart, and low-shedding dogs results in a compact canine that has proven to be a great companion for countless different types of pet owners. From singles to families and seniors, there seems to be a general consensus that these cute dogs are wonderful companions. Once you let a Westiepoo into your home, you’ll never want to live without one of these extraordinary pups again. Of course, while we are clearly enamoured with this special little pooch, we have to admit that these crossbreeds are not a perfect fit for absolutely every pawrent out there. If your busy lifestyle keeps you out of your home for extended periods, the Westiepoo may not be right for you as he doesn’t do well when left to his own devices for too long. He will become bored and potentially even destructive or noisy, which won’t go well for you or your neighbours. So that’s certainly worth keeping in mind if you find yourself tempted by the Westiepoo. Are curious to see if you and Westiepoo make a match made in puppy heaven? Good news. You’ve come to the right place. Below, you will find everything that there is to know about this lovely breed. So keep your eyes glued to this page and scroll away. Soon you’ll know if the Westiepoo is destined to join your family and if it is merely an adorable pup that you will admire from afar. This sturdy little hybrid is a happy, family oriented dog that loves to be around others and gets along famously with household pets and older kids. Origin As with any designer dog, it’s hard to pinpoint the exact origin of this particular breed. There simply isn’t much documentation available. That said, the Westiepoo most likely originated in the U.S. in the early 70s. His lineage is primarily connected to that of the Poodl,e which doesn’t have the same lengthy history as many pure-bred dogs. In fact, one of the most popular Poodle hybrids – the Cockapoo – came on the scene as recently as 1960. As a result, it’s assumed that other hybrids, such as the Westiepoo, most likely started within a decade of this first recognition. Unfortunately, that’s the best guess anyone has to the origin of the remarkable pup. It’s not much, but at least it’s something. Pedigree

Adorable K9 Puppy Takes a Nap During His Swearing-in Ceremony

It’s no secret that  service dogs play an important part in our society, fulfilling many roles from police and military dogs, to guide dogs and rescuers. But at the end of the day, when all the serious stuff is done with, these pooches are just like any other furball, with their adorable antics and quirks. Especially when it’s puppies that are still learning the ropes – it’s cuteness overload and this lil’ K9-to-be only goes to show it.Bear, the latest K9 trainee pup at the  Arapahoe County Sheriff’s Office in Colorado didn’t fail to amuse the crowds when he decided to take a solid nap in the middle of his swearing-in ceremony! Seems there was just too much excitement going on, so Bear said “To hell with it!” and just laid down to snooze. Of course, considering the fact that Bear is still just a puppy, and had been training hard for his special roles, all is forgiven. No one had the heart to scold him for napping on the job! The crowds laughed and the ceremony still went on as it should. Bear is training for some very important roles in the future. He will be a special therapy dog that will be helping children remain calm and happy in stressful situations. That’s not an easy thing to do, and therapy dogs go through a lot of rigorous training to learn everything they need to know before stepping into their service role. What is more, such training begins very early, when they are just a few weeks old. Together with his K9 buddy Otis, Bear will soon begin fulfilling his important duties - and in that way make many kids much happier. With plenty more work ahead of him, Bear certainly deserved that much-needed nap – even though it was technically during “work” hours. His funny episode certainly opened a real flood of comments on social media. Some said that the rest was well deserved, as, after all, it is very hard being that cute. We have to agree!

DIY Doughnut Sock Toy for Dogs

Tore a hole in one of your socks? Don’t throw them away–make this super quick, super simple dog doughnut toy instead. As most pawrents already know, some dogs have an unhealthy obsession with socks. The dirtier, the better: if your pooch gets a chance to raid your laundry hamper, the nasty little bugger will probably do it. But, as it is usually the case with dogs, they do it out of love, the four-legged weirdos. So, next time you have a pair of socks that’s for the bin, go the recycling route and make something fun for your pooch. These doughnut sock toys are extremely easy to make, cost nothing, and your dog is going to love them- trust me, I barely had the time to snap the picture of the toy before it was snatched. Oh, and just a little heads up before you start this DIY project- make sure you use clean socks. Your pooch might prefer if you don’t, but, hey, no thumbs, no opinion about crafts! What You’ll Need a pair of socks*scissors(optional) needle and thread *I used fluffy winter socks and a pair of knee-length socks for this tutorial, so one sock equaled one doughnut. In case of regular length socks or thin socks, you’ll need a pair of them for one doughnut.

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