Hunks and Hounds 2015 Is Basically The Best Calendar Ever

Real-Life “Thor” Poses With Floofy Pom, Melts Loins Everywhere

Super hunky dude and super cute pooch? Hmmmm… we’ll take one of each (*Insert inappropriate hammer joke here). Move over, Chris Hemsworth — there’s a new Thor in town, and he’s basically the real deal. Did we mention he’s single? Coming in at a mammoth 6’6, Lasse Matberg has taken Instagram by storm by storm in recent weeks. With his flowing golden locks, epic beard and bodacious bod, the 30-year-old Norwegian has drawn comparisons to everyone’s favourite Norse god, Thor, and we’ve gotta say — the resemblance is pretty striking (not to mention easy on the eyes!). Related: Hunks and Hounds 2015 Is Basically The Best Calendar Ever Matberg is an officer in the Royal Norwegian Navy and his Instagram is chockfull of pictures of him chopping wood, all done up in various military uniforms and (most importantly) cuddling tiny, fluffy puppies. The pup in question is a tiny, floofy Pomeranian pup named Junior, who sometimes hams it up in photos with the flaxen-haired hunk. No word on whether Junior actually belongs to Matberg or if he just uses the adorable fluff ball to catch some “tail” (heh heh). Related: 2016 Will Be A Hot Year, Thanks To Tails of NYC Rescue Men Calendar Additionally, Matberg insists he really is quite shy and is having a tough time coping with all the attention he’s receiving from women (surrrrrrrre). And great news for all you single ladies out there — Thor Jr. just got out of a 5 year long relationship and is looking for love once again. Something tells us he won’t be looking for long. See below for some smouldering pics of Matberg and Junior. Hungry for more? Check him out on Instagram. Looks like Junior also attended the Zoolander school of modelling.

Vroom, Vroom! NASCAR Pet Calendar Revs Up To Help Pets In Need

NASCAR champ Greg Biffle and fellow racers strike a pose for this 2016 calendar. Proceeds to help non-profit animal welfare groups throughout the U.S. Gentlemen (and ladies), mark your calendars! With the holiday season right around the corner and gift giving top of mind (hey, time flies and so will the snow pretty soon!), this calendar ticks the box for those on your list who love animals, are NASCAR enthusiasts or have a giving, charitable spirit. It seems that back in 2005 dog lover and pro stock car racer Greg Biffle, his wife Nicole, and their dogs Gracie and Savannah, decided to form the Greg Biffle Foundation. Their goal? Raise funds to deliver financial aid to non-profit animal welfare groups throughout the U.S. so that dogs and cats can get back on the road to a better future. Related: CFHS Is Out To Prove That Real Men Love Cats

CFHS Is Out To Prove That Real Men Love Cats

Which month are you? CGHS looking for real-life men and their cats for the 2016 Cats & Bros calendar

Why You Should Adopt a Dog From a Shelter

Complete your family and adopt a dog from a shelter If you’re looking to add another member to your family, you should adopt a dog from a shelter. There are thousands of dogs looking for a forever home and chances are you’ll find a loving companion that will give you and your family years of unconditional love. Many people are reluctant to adopt a dog from a shelter for various reasons. After all, there’s a stigma attached. These dogs were given up because they have “issues”. But these so-called issues were caused by a deficiency in the human owner – lack of leadership, exercise and training. In the right home, you’ll find that many of the issue disappear with the right amount of love, patience and attention. One of the many great things about a dog is that it lives in the moment. That means they forget the past and can’t wait to get to the fun the future holds for them. Sure, the previous owner might have thought that this dog was broken, so it was traded in until they could get a “perfect” dog. But when you adopt a dog from a shelter, that adult pooch you have your eye on in the shelter is ready for a fresh start. If you treat this dog right, you’ll find it has so much more potential than the previous owner saw. The best reason to adopt a dog from a shelter – you’ve just made a loyal friend for life. Before you even go to adopt a dog from a shelter, you need to decide the right kind of dog for your family. Is there a certain breed that works better for your home environment and lifestyle? Do you have kids and other animals in the household? Do you have an active or sedentary lifestyle? Can you step up to the plate and be the leader your dog needs? These are all important questions you need to answer before you adopt a dog from a shelter. Once you’ve come up with a general game plan, it’s time to start visiting rescue shelters. Don’t just focus your energies on one – be sure to get to several shelters in order to see a wide range of dogs. We know that you’re excited, but you don’t have to bring home a dog on your first day out. You’re not doing the dog or your family any favors if you choose based on a first impression, and you end up returning it. In fact, it may hinder that dog from being adopted by another family – dogs that keep getting returned have a greater chance of being put down. When you find a potential dog, approach the cage carefully and calmly so it sniff you. Don’t be alarmed if a shelter dog growls or barks at you – it may be wary of strangers, especially since so many come through the shelter every day. Take the dog out of its cage (with the assistance of the shelter staff, or course) and take it for a walk. Keep in mind that this dog probably has some pent up energy and is raring to go (hey, you would too if you were kept in a cage all day). After you pick the right pound puppy, it’s time to sort out all the paperwork and take your dog home. Check to see that all of its health records and procedures are in order so you have everything you need for your regular vet. Be sure to check out our article on what you should do to make the transition from the pound to your home a smooth one. And the best reason to adopt a dog from a shelter – you’ve just made a loyal friend for life.

English Setter

English Setter Basics When you own a dog of a specific and pure breed, admit it: part of you wants to be the kind of owner who gets approached. “What kind of breed is that?” your fellow dog admirers might ask you, eager to hear what you’ve got to say. Arousing this kind of attention appeals to our vanity, sure, but it also underlies a very deep appreciation for the variety and pure breeding that occurs within the world of dogs. After all, you wouldn’t feel very special about your dog’s specific breed unless there was something inherently interesting about it. That’s a perfect introduction into the world of the English Setter – you’re reading right, not the Irish Setter – a unique breed that is instantly recognizable. Well, instantly recognizable as long as you know what English Setters look like. This breed, of course, belongs to the setter group and is similarly bred for both athleticism and a workmanlike attitude. You don’t have to go very far for a friend if you’ve got an English Setter. But if you want to have an answer to that question “What kind of breed is that?” you’ve got to know a thing or two about English Setters. Don’t worry… you’re about to learn. Generally easy-going, the English Setter is prone to obedience and loyalty. Origin One glance at the name of this breed will tell you that this dog was originally bred for hunting, like many similar dogs and dogs in its pedigree. The English Setter’s position in the world of hunting, at least as it started out, was to flush out game and make it ready to shoot. Quite simply, the English Setter needs to not only have a good nose, but a good ability to understand a specific task and perform it with obedience and loyalty. That obedience and loyalty has marked the history of the English Setter through some four or five hundred years of breeding. Experts place the English Setters roots this far back as it’s quite apparent that the English Setter has been helping hunters all over the world for at least a few centuries. During the 19th century, the Setter saw a lot of further development and breeding, especially as a man named R. Percival Llewellin bred English Setters to enhance its beauty and its overall look. Consequently, the English Setter today has a very distinctive appearance and can be considered one of the best-looking dogs that belong to the setter group. Pedigree

Miniature Boxer

Miniature Boxer Basics We know what you’re thinking. Any dog called a Miniature Boxer conjures up a specific image, but whatever you have in your mind might not quite match up with reality. Despite what his name implies, the Miniature Boxer is not a scaled-down version of that well-loved German working dog that we all know and love. In fact, the compact version of the Boxer dog is actually a hybrid or designer dog that was developed by crossing several purebreds to achieve a certain appearance. As a result, the Miniature Boxer will not necessarily be a carbon copy of his full-sized parent, but rather a new pup that inherits some of the traits (especially in the behavior department) from other breeds in the mix. Depending on the breeder, there are a few potential parents that can be used in a mix and each one brings along their own set of quirks and traits. Of course, there are some tendencies that all Miniature Boxes share. These beautiful hybrids are social creatures that get along well with kids, other animals, and even other family pets. While they are non-aggressive, the Miniature Boxer is devoted to their families and can prove to be a formidable guardian if they feel their pack is threatened. So you can depend on this pooch to alert you and your family to any situation he feels might be threatening. They also love to be part of family activities with the downside being that they don’t do well when left to their own devices for long periods of time. This is a dog that requires near constant companionship in any home. While the Boxer is among the top 10 most popular dog breeds in the United States, the Miniature Boxer is still a rare breed. Nevertheless, there’s a lot of effort being put into the development of the breed and these dogs have a lot to offer to the right owner. So, if you’re willing to put in the effort to track down one of these beauties, you will be richly rewarded for your efforts. Read on to find out more about this unusual and delightful designer dog! Miniature Boxers are devoted to their families. Origin The designer dog craze started at some point during the 1980s, with Labradoodle kicking off a trend of crossing purebreds to create attractive and appealing new hybrids. The majority of these new crossbreed dogs are a result of mixing two purebreds, but there is a handful of designer dogs with a more complex lineage. The Miniature Boxer is one of these more complicated hybrids. However, despite his unusual background and the rarity of the breed, there’s not much we know about its origins. That’s just a sad reality of the designer dog world. No one has put much effort into documenting and monitoring their history. Mixed breed dogs have been around since, well, forever, and that makes it difficult to know when someone intentionally developed a designer dog breed rather than these dogs appearing as a result of unplanned mating practices. To make matters more complicated for the Miniature Boxer, breeders are still not on the same page about which dogs to use to develop the mix. So, it’s hard to pinpoint a clear start of the journey for the Miniature Boxer or even predict their future. This is a hybrid mix still in development and breeders are still experimenting with which mixes produce the best results. It’s highly likely that the breed was first developed sometime in the last 20 years in the United States, not unlike many other similar hybrids. Unfortunately, that’s all we know for sure, but stay tuned since this pups are growing in popularity all the time. Pedigree

Top 10 Best Military Dog Breeds

Think you know your enlisted K-9s? Well, think again. You’ll be surprised with some of the picks on our military dog breeds list. Especially number 10!.If you’re anything like me, the moment you think “military dog” you envision a German Shepherd Dog or Doberman patrolling a barbed wire fence and barking fiercely when confronted by the enemy. It’s an image that we've seen so many times in movies and television shows. But as always, you can’t trust Hollywood for accuracy. Those are far from the only breeds of pup who have used in military service and just one of the many roles assigned to the enlisted K-9s and military dog breeds. When you dig into the history, it’s amazing what a wide range of pups have performed a wide range of tasks in military service. From large to small, muscular and burly, doggos went above and beyond the call of duty to fulfill the missions they were tasked with. There is no surprise here – dogs are known as loyal and brave companions, even in war. So what are the jobs typically assigned to our favourite furry friends by the military? Well, there are many and often those jobs require completely opposite tasks and behaviours. While Sentry dogs are taught to walk alongside their guard or handler and warn by growling or barking at approaching strangers, a Scout dog is trained to work silently so that they can detect and alert their handler to snipers, enemy presence, and ambushes. A Messenger dog carries information between handlers, while Mine Dogs are trained to detect both metallic and non-metallic land-mines as well as booby traps and trip wires. Casualty dogs are your war-time version of a search and rescue pooch who can quickly locate injured soldiers. While Tunnel dogs have been used to explore the confines of underground spaces to seek out enemy forces and alert handlers. Finally, Explosives Detection dogs have been specifically trained to pick up on the scent of the chemicals used in bombs and alert their handler when those odours hit their little pup noses.As you can see, there are quite a wide range of tasks for military service dogs these days. That requires a wide variety of breeds who can deliver on those tasks. Since the military has been training dogs for decades, they have experimented with a wide variety of breeds and come up with quite a list of powerful pups who are up to the tasks. So, who are the top dogs when it comes to military duty past and present? Keep your eyeballs glued to this page to find out. (Photo credit: Africa Studio/Shutterstock) German Shepherd Dog

Shichon

Shichon BasicsIn recent years there has been a drastic increase in the popularity of designer dog breeds. Once considered little more than mutts by snooty purebred enthusiasts, designer dogs are now rightfully considered to be special and lovable pups in their own right. Everyone seems to want a designer dogs these days. And the Shichon is one of the most sought after mixes in the pack! Adorable looks, soft and fluffy fur, and a friendly, sweet nature all make the Shichon attractive to a variety of pet owners. After all, who wouldn’t fall in love with a breed dubbed the Teddy Bear Dog? Only a monster and you aren’t a monster now, are you?Also known as Zuchon or Tzu Frise, the Shichon is a cross between the Bichon Frise and the Shih Tzu, resulting in a hybrid pup that combines all of the best features of both breeds. The Shichon gives you the small size of the Shih Tzu and the friendly disposition of the Bichon Frise. Why choose between two wonderful dog breeds when you can have the best of both in one lovable pup? You don’t need to choose between your favourite breeds anymore. You can have it all! That’s the main appeal of designer dog breeds, and the Shichon is a perfect representative as the cross truly gives you a perfect blend of two popular breeds.These hybrid dogs are not demanding. They will adapt to almost any family or living situation. However, like all breeds, the Shichon also has his quirks and special needs. What are these exactly? You’ve come to the right place to find out. Read on to learn all about these designer dogs before welcoming one into your family.The Shichon gives you the small size of the Shih Tzu and the friendly disposition of the Bichon Frise.Origin Designer dogs are a popular global trend, but individual hybrids don’t have well-documented histories. Few people were paying attention to how these dogs came to be so popular and even less were documenting the development. The origins of the Shichon breed cannot be traced back to any one breeder because the crossing of purebred dogs is not a new phenomenon. There have been surprise mixed breed litters for as long as dogs have been breeding, but that’s not what experts would consider a “true” Shichon. The history of the breed starts with people who started intentionally developing it, with a clear goal for the future. And, since no one has stepped out to claim that they first created the Shih Tzu and Bichon Frise mix with the idea to make a fluffy family companion, there’s no way to know the origin of the breed itself. The Sichon remains a bit of a mystery, but thankfully even if we don’t know exactly where these pups came from, we do know that they are lovable and loyal companions. That’s all that matters.That said, it’s safe to assume that the Shichon shares the origin story with the majority of other designer dogs. The first litter was probably born somewhere in the United States in the last 20 to 30 years. And that’s only if you take designer dogs as your timeframe. If you are looking at all Shih Tzu and Bichon Frise mix in history, it’s certain you could find more of them much earlier than that. But, let’s stop sweating about this breed’s mysterious origins. There’s so much that we do know about them that is necessary to explore.Pedigree

Koolie

Koolie BasicsWhen you see the Koolie for the first time, you may think that you are looking at an Australian Cattle Dog. The breed is, in fact, an Australian breed but it is actually the other way around – the breed played a role in the development of the Australian Cattle Dog, also known as the Blue Heeler. Interestingly, however, the breed is sometimes misrepresented as a German breed because it is also known as the German Koolie.Koolies played a role in the development of the Australian Cattle Dog.OriginThe Koolie is also known as the German Koolie because the predecessors of the breed were brought to Australia by early German settlers. The German Koolie was used as an all-purpose working breed until the 1800s when one of them accidentally mated with a Dingo, the wild dog of Australia. The result of this mating was a short-coated working breed ideally suited to the hot climate in the Australian outback. The breed rapidly gained popularity after that point and was used to develop other Australian working breeds like the Australian Kelpie and the Australian Cattle Dog.Pedigree

Choose High-Quality Nutrition for Your Dog With Rachael Ray Nutrish

As pet parents, we’re always on the search for the perfect food for our canine companions. This includes choosing food that supports their nutritional needs and offers a delicious taste they can’t resist. There are many different dog foods to choose from, but we prefer to feed a high-quality natural dog food free from unnecessary fillers and additives. That’s why we love Rachael Ray Nutrish’s Whole Health Blend.

Can You Sustain a Planted Tank Without a Filter?

You don’t have any fish in your aquarium, just plants. That means you don’t need a filter, right? Here’s why you may want to add a filter to your planted tank. If you are an experienced aquarium hobbyist, you undoubtedly understand the importance of having a high-quality filtration system installed in your tank. Having a filter is essential for maintaining high water quality because it removes harmful substances from the tank water and helps to keep oxygen levels high for your fish. If these are the main things a filter does, however, you may be wondering if the live plants in your tank will be enough. What do Plants Do in the Aquarium? Not only can live plants enhance the appearance of your aquarium, but they provide several very important benefits as well. Live aquarium plants go through the process of photosynthesis during the day (or when your tank lights are turned on) in order to grow. They absorb carbon dioxide from your tank water (this is produced by your fish as a byproduct of respiration) and they use light as energy to convert that carbon dioxide into oxygen. Live plants also extract certain pollutants from the tank water including things like ammonia, nitrate, and nitrite – all of these substances are harmful for your fish so it is necessary to have them removed from the tank. Aquatic plants can also help to keep algae growth at bay because they compete for the same nutrients algae needs to grow. Related: What Aquarium Plants Need to Thrive Do I Need a Tank Filter? To summarize the information from the last section, live aquarium plants filter harmful substances from the tank water and convert carbon dioxide into oxygen. Given this information, you might be wondering what makes live plants different from any aquarium filter. After all, they seem to perform the same functions. So, do you really need to use a filter in your planted tank? The answer to this question will be different depending on several factors including tank size, the number of plants you have, and the number and type of aquarium inhabitants you are cultivating. You can’t add one or two plants to your freshwater aquarium and expect it to be an adequate replacement for your filter. If you have a large tank or a large number of tank inhabitants, the ability of those few plants to filter out toxins and to produce oxygen will probably not be enough to keep up with the biological load of your tank. If, on the other hand, you have a moderately sized tank filled with a large number of live plants and you only have a few fish, those plants might be able to keep up with the production of waste and carbon dioxide your fish are responsible for. Related: How to Use Aquatic Mosses in Your Planted Tank The problem is that you will not really know if your planted tank can thrive without a filter unless you try it. Remember, it is essential that you cycle your tank before you add any fish or other tank inhabitants – this is still true for the planted tank. Having a filter installed while your tank is cycling can be beneficial, especially because you want the water quality to be high when you add your fish. It isn’t a bad idea, then, to start your planted tank with a filter and to keep adding more plants until your filter becomes unnecessary. Just make sure that you have another means of cultivating biological bacteria in your tank to maintain the nitrogen cycle once you remove the filter. You can try installing a sponge filter or simply let the bacteria grow on tank surfaces. Things to Consider When Maintaining a Filtration System in Your Planted Tank There are several reasons why maintaining a filtration system in your planted tank is recommended, even if you have a lot of plants in your aquarium. First off, because your plants will get the majority of the nutrients that they need to grow from the water, if there is even just a gentle flow created by the circulation that results from a filtration system, it could help them get the nutrients that they need more easily. And that translates to better plant growth. Plus, if you do have fish in your planted tank, the filtration that keeps the water clean can also help them stay healthy. The bottom line is that your plants and your fish can benefit from water that moves, rather than water that is stagnant, and a filtration system can help you achieve that. When shopping for a filtration system for your planted aquarium, there are two main types that stand out from the rest and come highly recommended: hang on the back (or HOB) filters and canister filters. While you might think of undergravel filters, these aren’t a good choice for an aquarium with plants because the plants’ roots could end up getting in the way and preventing adequate flow. And cleaning your tank will be even harder when you have plants and an undergravel filter. The great thing about an HOB filter is that it tends to be the more affordable option, and you can use it in smaller tanks. If you are going to use this type of filter in a bigger tank, you might need more than one to get the job done. Setting up and maintaining these filters is also easy, and it uses filter cartridges that are disposable. Just be sure you have enough space behind the tank in order for the HOB to fit properly. Then there are canister filters, which are also easy to maintain. These are appropriate for larger tanks, as they aren’t the right choice for smaller aquariums. You can even use a spray bar attachment if you want to control the water return. Simply keep your spray bar attachment under the water to allow for the right amount of circulation throughout the tank. That simple step will be great for your fish and your plants. Also, in terms of location, you’ll set this one up under the tank, so this gives you more freedom because you won’t have to worry as much about leaving a lot of space behind the tank. And you can find canister filters that use reusable media. There are other types of filtration systems available, but you need to bear in mind the fact that your tank is planted. For that reason alone, canister and HOB filters are the most often recommended products. Also, when shopping for the right filter for your planted tank, consider whether there are fish in the tank as well, and take into account the size of your tank too. You Have the Option of Using a Filter or Not, but It Really Depends on Your Setup It’s certainly possible to cultivate a thriving planted tank without a filter, but it can be a little bit tricky to accomplish. You want to make sure that your live plants are able to handle the biological load in your tank before you remove the filter and you need to take steps to ensure proper biological filtration. If you do these things, however, you can certain keep a planted tank without a filter.

Say Bye to Tug O’ Walks: Best Dog Harnesses to Stop Pulling

There are many different dog harnesses to stop pulling to pick from–find out how to make the right choice.Every dog is excited to go outside and strut their stuff, but some pooches can get a bit too excited on walks, pulling and tugging you along. Not only that leash pulling can be frustrating as heck, but you might also experience shoulder and wrist pain from trying to keep your eager pooch under control. If you want your dog to behave when you walk them on a leash- and avoid those red sore palms and painful joints, no-pull dog harnesses are the answer. These specially designed dog harnesses to stop pulling use humane but effective tactics to prevent your dog from wiggling and tugging on the leash.

Pocket Pitbull

Pocket Pitbull BasicsIf you are looking for an active and friendly breed like the American Pitbull Terrier but prefer something smaller, like a Patterdale Terrier, the Pocket Pitbull may be the perfect breed for you. As a mix of the two breeds, these designer dogs bring together the best traits of their parents into one hybrid dog. Owing to their unique lineage and traits, these miniature Pitbull mixes are a good choice for people who live in an apartment or active owners looking for a unique pet to be share adventures with.The Pocket Pitbull is an intelligent and active breed that maintains a small but stocky stature. This breed is loyal and affectionate with family and, when properly trained and socialized, they do well with children. One thing to be wary of with this breed is that they need a lot of mental and physical stimulation to prevent the development of problem behaviors. All things considered, the Pocket Pitbull has a lot to offer to an experienced and dedicated owner. Are these dogs the right choice for you? Read on to find out.If you are looking for an active and friendly breed like the American Pitbull Terrier but prefer something smaller, like a Patterdale Terrier, the Pocket Pitbull may be the perfect breed for you.OriginThere might be a growing interest for miniature Pitbull mixes, but that doesn’t mean that this breed has a long and established history. In fact, there’s not much we know about the origin of the Pocket Pitbull. The main reason for this is the mixed breed lineage of these hybrids. Even though they have a “fancy” name and there’s a renewed interest in them, designer dogs are still simply mixed breed dogs to many people. Either way, this is a relatively new crossbreed, and wasn’t really established prior to the late 1990s.The Pocket Pitbull might sound like an exotic breed that just got its start, but there have probably been many Patterdale Terrier and Pitbull mixes throughout history. The only difference is that those crosses weren’t intentional- but rather a product of accidental mating between the two purebreds. No breeder claims that he or she were the ones to first breed the Pocket Pitbull, so there is no clear data about the breed’s origin. The best guess anyone can have is that these crossbreeds had a start similar to many other designer dogs- they were bred in the last 20 years somewhere in the United States. Nevertheless, them being relative newcomers does not make them any less unique or fun. Pocket Pitbulls were quick to win over the hearts of many owners across the world, thanks to their positive attitude, their energetic behavior, and the endless fun that they bring. Pedigree

Rex Rabbit

Rex Rabbit Breed History/OriginThe Rex Rabbit wasn’t born yesterday, ya know! This is an illustrious little bunny with quite a rich history worth exploring. The Rex Rabbit was developed around 1919 in the French village of Louché-Pringé, by breeders who were impressed by this wild rabbit’s beautiful and luscious fur. Naturally, they wanted to domesticate it! This stunning breed was gradually developed from a litter of wild gray rabbits. They were selectively bred into a domestic breed and shown in an international rabbit show in Paris in 1924, where there was great interest among breeders because of the recessive rex gene. The breed was an instant success! And for a number of reasons, too. These rabbits may have been found int the wild initially, but they quickly exploded in popularity and became coveted as pets. Following its first showing in Paris, the breed was introduced to the United States that same year and was shown by American rabbit breeder John C. Fehr and his partner Alfred Zimmerman. The breed was accepted by the American Rabbit Breeder’s Association (ARBA) soon after. It’s been a stable in the homes of rabbit lovers ever since. To see a Rex Rabbit in person is to fall hard into bunny love. You’ll need to own one immediately and you won’t regret it. Read on as we learn all the tidbits that make this rabbit breed so wonderful! The Rex rabbit has short, soft fur that points out instead of against their bodies, making this breed super plushy.Overall Description

Chorkie

Chorkie BasicsThere are many reasons why prospective dog owners may choose a specific breed. Some are looking for working dogs, while some value dogs who do well with children. Others seek a dog to fulfill certain therapeutic needs. There are almost as many reasons why owners choose their dogs as there are breeds themselves! Of course, the number one reason why most people choose their pup isn’t even remotely practical. It all comes down to cuteness. Chorkies are without a doubt one of the cutest breeds of designer dogs available to the modern dog owner. A relatively new breed created in the early 1990s, a Chorkie is the result of a crossing between a Yorkshire Terrier and a Chihuahua. So what happens when you put the two tiniest and cutest pups together? You certainly don’t end up with anything other than a cutiepie.As with most mixed breed dogs, the Chorkie’s physical appearance can sometimes have subtle variances depending on the genetic contribution of the parents. However, like their parents, they are extremely small toy-sized dogs that make for excellent indoor pets. Chorkies generally retain the long and silky hair of the Yorkshire terriers and the head shape of the Chihuahua. Their ears are generally erect like the Chihuahua’s, but can sometimes be droopy. Unlike Yorkshire terriers which are usually tan, grey and black in color, Chorkies can come in a variety of colors due to their Chihuahua genetics. It’s all quite tricky to predict with hybrids, but rest assured that no matter which mixture of traits pop up in your Chrokie, the results will be absolutely adorable.Some people also call these dogs Yorkie-Chi or Chiyorkie, but these are not common or official breed names.Chorkies are without a doubt one of the cutest breeds of designer dogs available to the modern dog owner.Origin As is the case with most new designer breeds, origins are often hazy and obscured, with no dates known for certain. Although it is impossible to trace the first intentional Yorkshire Terrier and Chihuahua crossing, sources indicate that Chorkies were initially bred in the early 1990s. This is the time when the popularity of designer breeds soared, and many of the hybrids were created with success. Sadly, nothing more is known about where these pretty pups came from. However, they have since gained a great deal of popularity and are an extremely beloved choice of designer dog. They aren’t going anywhere. This breed is growing exponentially.Pedigree

Snorkie

Snorkie BasicsNo, this isn’t a device to help you breathe underwater. That would require a typo. A Snorkie is a beautiful little dog with plenty of heart, spunk, and spirit. These little pups will steal your heart in mere seconds and while the designer dogs might not be among the best-known breeds on the market, they have been rising steadily in popularity over the last few years. And that increase in attention was all for excellent reasons too! As the offspring of two purebred dogs (that would be the Miniature Schnauzer and the Yorkshire Terrier for those keeping score at home), the Snorkie has a lot to offer to his family. It’s practically impossible not to love this dog. You’ll see…In spite of his hilarious little name, the Snorkie is an intelligent little dog that thrives on human interaction and is a devoted family pet. Affectionate and cuddly, this hybrid loves to spend time with his owners, whether it’s napping while you watch TV, playing in the backyard, or going on walks in the park. But, even though this Miniature Schnauzer and Yorkie mix is the ideal companion, sitting in laps is not the only role it excels at. These courageous and alert hybrids also make great watchdogs. Sure, their miniature size prevents anyone from taking them too seriously, but that’s why we said “watchdogs” and not “guard dogs.”Of course, while designer dogs stand to inherit plenty of lovely traits from their purebred parents, there are some less desirable qualities that can appear in the mix, too. No dog is perfect after all. They all have their pluses and minuses. His terrier lineage means he is highly spirited and is full of playful vigor so finding ways for him to expend his energy is important. Because of his social nature, Snorkies don’t do well when left on their own for long periods of time; chewing and barking can become a problem. So if you are out of the house on a daily basis, this breed may not be the ideal fit for your family.If you’re considering adding a Snorkie to your home, then you’ve come to the right place. Keep your eyeballs glued to this page and we will reveal everything that you need to know about becoming a pet parent to this wonderful animal.The Snorkie is an intelligent little dog that thrives on human interaction and is a devoted family pet.OriginThe designer dogs might be a popular trend in the world of pets, but there is still a lot we don’t know about hybrids. For instance, the history of these types of breeds is often quite mysterious, as there is no record about when or where breeders started developing a particular mix. Apart from a few most popular hybrid breeds with a documented origin, the history of designer dogs is blurred together with unintentional mixes of purebred dogs that have been around…well, they’ve been around pretty much forever. Unfortunately, the Snorkie is one of those breeds whose story leaves us with only a few clues about their origin.Very little is known about the history of the Snorkie, but here is everything that we’ve been able to find. We know that the breed originated in the United States, which is true of the majority of hybrids that are available. The designer dog phenomenon was born with the creation of Labradoodle in the 1980s, so it’s safe to assume that the Snorkie came to be shortly after that. It was probably sometime in the last 30 years.The Snorkie is a mix of terriers ( Miniature Schnauzer and Yorkshire Terrier) and it really shows. Because his lineage was originally bred for hunting rodents – the Yorkie in English clothing mills and the Miniature Schnauzer on farms in Germany, the Snorkie will almost certainly exhibit some of these hunting characteristics.Pedigree

Whoodle

Whoodle BasicsThat’s right. The Whoodle. You might have not heard about this designer dog breed, but that’s going to change. Whoodles are becoming popular and loved hybrids that have more than enough to offer to the right owner. These doggos are intelligent, affectionate, friendly and energetic - all of which gives them a dedicated following with good reason. Also known as the Sweatenpoo, Wheatendoodle, Wheatenpoo, or Wheatiepoo, this designer dog breed can thank its impressive lineage for its many impressive qualities. The name might feel a bit weird coming out of your mouth, but trust us - just a few minutes alone with one of these guys will have you screaming “Whoodle” from the rooftops. They’re just that loveable. A Whoodle is a cross between the Poodle and the Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier: the result is a medium-sized dog with a soft, curly coat and a wonderful personality. Of course, because Poodles come in three sizes, the Whoodle also comes in three sizes – miniature, medium, or standard. The size is largely related to genetics, and breeders never know for certain how a litter will come out. So whether you want a large athletic companion, a petite energetic pooch, or something in between, you can find it all in this designer dog breed. The Whoodle is a breed that can truly be all things for all owners. You just have to find the right one for you!While their adorable teddy bear looks and cheerful temperament make Whoodles popular with many pet owners, they do have some specific requirements and personality traits that might not make them an ideal match for your own family. Just like all dogs. Not every dog is meant for every owner, but certainly those who are the right fit for their Whoodles love them. To find out if the Whoodle is your perfect pup, read on!Whoodles also comes in three sizes – miniature, medium, or standard.OriginHybrid dogs have been quite common for many years, so the first crossing of Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier and a Poodle may have occurred long ago. However, it’s not those accidental litters of mixed breed puppies that “count” as first Whoodles. Don’t be absurd. Nope, it’s only the hybrids that were developed intentionally that are thought of as the original Whoodles. Sadly there’s not enough information about their start in the world of designer dogs. Yet, even though it’s unclear when the Whoodle precisely came into existence, we all can be certain that this pup will be around for a long, long time.Like the majority of hybrid breeds, the Whoodle doesn’t have a well-documented history. It’s most likely, though, that breeders first developed Whoodles sometime in the last 20 years. And, since Australia and the United States seem to have produced the most of today’s hybrid breeds, it’s safe to assume that one of these two places was the “birthplace” of the breed. This might not be the most satisfying explanation for where these adorable doggos originated, but unfortunately it’s the best we can do. Fortunately, even though we’ll never now exactly where Whoodles came from, it doesn’t mean that we’ll love them any less - they continue to rise in popularity and are equally loved all across the world. Pedigree

Morkie

Morkie BasicsTiny and adorable, the Morkie is an affectionate crossbreed who loves people and will get along with all of your other pets. By combining two popular breeds, the Yorkshire Terrier and the Maltese, breeders managed to create a beautiful dog with a loving personality. These petite balls of fluff are not all cuddles and smooches though. A Morkie can be as bullheaded as they come, so previous experience with small breed dogs might be beneficial. These little dogs can cause big problems if you aren’t careful. Morkies are also playful and will run to chase a ball for quite some time or find fun in interactive dog toys. They will surely keep older children in the home busy playing and then cuddle up in their beds at night to sleep. So it’s no wonder why these tiny pooches are one of the favorite family dogs! The Morkie attaches to his family quickly and tend to form strong bonds with their pawrents. While heartwarming and cute, his love for the family can create a problem when he needs to be left alone. These pups will become so attached to their families that they won’t be able to handle time on their own, so training them early and often in a must.Related: 10 Best Harnesses For MorkiesDue to their small size, Morkies are fragile and can be hurt easily if you’re not being careful with them. This crossbreed does best with families without small kids, who can seriously injure this furry baby in careless playing. They are best suited to families with mature children or even elderly couples looking to add a little fluff to their lives. As an adaptable and easy going pooch, a Morkie can be happy with a big yard in the suburbs or in a minuscule city apartment. A few, short walks each day will keep this Yorkie and Maltese cross content and well-exercised. That’s good news for urban dwellers. They can keep their pup in their apartment without fear of denying them the space they need to say happy and healthy.

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