Top 10 Friendliest Dog Breeds

by Kate Barrington

October 7th, 2014 12:00 AM

When it comes to selecting the right dog for yourself and your family, there are a number of factors to consider. In addition to thinking about the size and exercise requirements for the dog, you also need to think about its temperament. If you have a family with small children, it is essential that you choose a patient, mild-mannered breed that will get along with children. While the temperament of individual dogs may vary, the dogs on our friendliest dog breeds are largely recognized for being sociable, and are always happy to make a new friend (especially if you have treats!). (Photo credit: Lilun/Bigstock.com)

Bulldog: Though the Bulldog may look a little rough with its wrinkled skin and heavy head, they are actually quite sweet. The biggest advantage of this breed as a family pet is the fact that they are sturdy – even the most rambunctious children will be unlikely to get a rise out of a Bulldog. (Photo credit: sabianmaggy/Flickr)

Beagle: The Beagle is a happy-go-lucky breed that loves to be around people and other dogs. This breed is energetic but friendly by nature which makes them a great choice as a pet. Beagles do tend to be a little nosy so proper training is required to prevent the development of problem behaviors, but you can rest assured that they will always be loving and affectionate. (Photo credit: Judd Hall/Flickr)

Golden Retriever: The Golden Retriever is largely recognized as one of the friendliest dog breeds out there due to their loving and gentle personalities. These dogs are not overly energetic but they do love to play and you can trust them to keep watch over your children. (Photo credit: Sonja Lovas/Flickr)

Collie: The Collie is largely known for its long, flowing coat, but it is also a great family breed. These dogs are well suited to large, active families because they have a great deal of energy to expend. Collies are intelligent and friendly – they also tend to react with patience when children climb on them or handle them roughly. (Photo credit: Hans-Joachim Schneider/Bigstock.com)

Labrador Retriever: The Labrador Retriever is a medium-sized breed that has consistently rated in the top 5 most popular dog breeds in the U.S. based on AKC registry statistics. In addition to being friendly and energetic, this breed is also very gentle and patient with children. When properly socialized and trained, Labrador Retrievers make great family pets. Just keep in mind that they require regular exercise and attention – if they become bored they may be prone to developing problem behaviors. (Photo credit: ots-photo/Bigstock.com)

Boxer: Though the Boxer is commonly used as a guard dog, they are actually friendly and gentle by nature. This breed craves human attention which makes them a great choice for families with children. Boxers are patient and spirited which makes them fun for children to play with, but they are also protective so you can be sure they will keep your kids safe. (Photo credit: ninare/Flickr)

Poodle: The poodle is largely considered to be one of the smartest dog breeds out there which means that they are responsive to training. This, combined with their gentle demeanor, makes them a great choice on our friendliest dog breeds list. Poodles are outgoing by nature, friendly with everyone they meet and gentle with children. As an added bonus, there are three different sizes to choose from: standard, miniature and toy. (Photo credit: Michael Porter/Flickr)

Newfoundland: The Newfoundland is a very large breed of dog known for its gentle nature and love for children. This breed is impossible not to fall in love with, with their loving nature and affectionate personalities. Newfoundlands may drool and shed a lot but you can be sure that they will always be a good friend – they are always willing to cuddle and will keep an eye on your children at all times. (Photo credit: Tracy Lee/Flickr)

Irish Setter: The Irish Setter is known for its long, dark red coat and for its endless energy. This breed is recommended for families with older children, especially active children who need a dog that will play with them. This breed has an outgoing, almost clown-like personality that lends itself well to being a family pet. (Photo credit: Reddogs/Bigstock.com)

German Shepherd: Though the German Shepherd dog is often used for police work, it is actually a gentle and patient breed which makes them a great choice for families. These dogs are highly intelligent and trainable – they also tend to be very easy going, not reacting if children climb all over them. Additionally, German Shepherds make good guard dogs. (Photo credit: Nneirda/Bigstock.com)

Kate Barrington

Kate Barrington is the loving owner of two cats (Bagel and Munchkin) and a noisy herd of guinea pigs. Having grown up with golden retrievers, Kate has a great deal of experience with dogs but labels herself a lover of all pets. Having received a Bachelor's degree in English, Kate has combined her love for pets and her passion for writing to create her own freelance writing business, specializing in the pet niche.

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Top 10 Best Water Dog Breeds

Are you looking for a natural born swimmer? If you want a pooch who loves to splash around in the pool, check out our list of water dog breeds! You’re standing at the edge of a lake and decide to throw a stick into the water for your pooch to fetch. Which breeds are splashing down before the target hits the water and which are sneaking back to the car with their tail between their legs? Some dog breeds just can’t get enough of the wet stuff while others are born landlubbers who prefer nothing more than the dry warmth of terra firma. These water breeds below love the water. Why do dogs like the water? Many dogs love to swim. Seriously, think of the term ‘Doggie Paddle’ and wonder where that came from for a minute. The majority of dogs who love to swim do so for a couple of different reasons. One is that a dog’s body is often built to swim. The way their body weight is distributed along with their (sometimes) webbed paws and natural instincts makes them great swimmers. Their tails act like a great rudder to steer them along and their water-resistant coats mean that they stay warm and dry quickly no matter the water they go in. Additionally, dogs with longer legs love swimming because –well, they have the legs that are built for it. Long, lean kicks and movements in the water help keep them afloat and when you combine that with their desire to do smart things for their owners (like hunt and point)? Many dogs just love the water because it allows them to please their owners. Additionally, introducing dogs early on can make them love the water. You shouldn’t ever make your fearful dog get into water if they don’t want to, but take the time to train them and even use life jackets if need be if you’re not 100% sure they’re good. Even though they may be a water breed, they still have normal tendencies that play into their behaviors; be cognizant of that. Now, If you want to go for a dip, here is our Top 10 list of best water dog breeds. Newfoundland

Top 10 Affectionate Dog Breeds

Everybody needs someone to cuddle – why not make that special somebody a dog? You can count on any of these affectionate dog breeds to stay loyal and never stray! If you want a big kiss or you need to feel loved, nothing beats curling up on the couch with your loyal canine companion. Some dogs simply cannot get enough attention from us, and in turn, show us how much they adore us. In honor of this seemingly endless supply of adorable devotion, we’re pleased to present our top 10 most affectionate dog breeds. We know dogs have emotions. We know that they have feelings and they feel things and are sensitive to us when we are feeling things. We also know that there are just some dogs that we get along with and laugh and love with more because they seem to get us. Like, really get us. What is it about certain breeds of dog that makes that happen? What breeds are they, even that are more affectionate and free in their love? Most people look for a pet for those affectionate relationships and sometimes, when choosing a dog that’s less than affectionate by breed and history, they can be disappointed. It’s nothing against the dog, of course…they are who they are. But if you’re looking for an affectionate dog who’s going to love you forever (and show you too)? Check out this list of our most affectionate breeds (Photo credit: Christin Lola/Bigstock)

Top 10 Dumbest Dog Breeds

Some pooches aren’t the sharpest knives in the drawer. There’s no shame with being or owning any of the canines on this dumbest dog breeds list. Is it politically correct to call any critter “dumb”? Let’s call this list of dogs the “not-so-bright” pack! I mean let’s face it, not all pooches (or people) can land within the top IQ percentile and there’s nothing wrong with that… in fact according to author and psychologist Stanley Coren in his book The Intelligence of Dogs, we can’t just broad-brush a breed, we need to be looking at three types of intelligence when ranking our clever canines: The first is instinctive which means he can perform tasks that are part of his natural make-up such as hunting or herding. E.g. the family cat can expect to be corralled.The second is called adaptive and that means he learns to independently problem solve based on past experience with the issue. E.g. the cat scratches so he stops corralling the cat.The third is known as working and obedience intelligence and it means he’s able to learn when being taught by humans. E.g. he’s taught to (and actually does) leave the cat alone before he is scratched. Of course, it should come as no surprise that cognitive studies exist and similar to those conducted on young children, they help determine which dogs are clever little guys and which are well, not so much… So which breeds land at the very, very bottom of the super-smart list? Basset Hound

Top 10 Cuddly Fluffy Dog Breeds

We like big fluff and we cannot lie! What’s not to like – there’s just more pup to hug. Check out our picks for our top 10 fluffy dog breeds. Pull out the hoover and grab your lint roller; we’re about to talk fluff! Not the soft and cuddly puppy-dog fuzz type that disappears when your pooch gets older. This is hard core fluff that grows with your best bud, fills the lint trap, produces tumbleweeds the size of melons and qualifies him to make our list of top ten fluffy dog breeds. Poodle

Top 10 Dog Breeds Commonly Found in Shelters

Looking to adopt a pooch? Check if your favorite dog breed can be easily found in shelters and rescues. One of the most common misconceptions about adopting a dog is that only mixed breed dogs and mutts end up in shelters. People who are set on a particular dog breed think that they have to go to a breeder if they want to get a furry companion, but they’re unaware that their dream pet might be waiting for them in their local shelter. 1. Pit Bull Terrier

Keeshond

Keeshond Basics The Keeshond is a wonderful dog that is known by many names including the Foxdog, Wolfspitz, Dutch Keeshond, Dutch Barge Dog, Chien Loup, Laughing Dutchman and Smiling Dutchman. Whatever you prefer to refer to him as, this dog is a simply wonderful companion for many people. His face makes the Keeshond look different from other breeds of dog. The Keeshond’s expressive face and markings that give him the appearance of wearing glasses are remarkable. He is a sweet fellow and makes a great addition to many households. Please continue reading to learn more about the Keeshond. The Keeshond is a simply wonderful companion for many people. Origin The Keeshond’s origin is in Holland and it is truly an ancient breed of dog. In the 13th and 14th Centuries, farmers loved the Keeshond because they were assertive watchdogs and guarded the livestock as well as were safe companions for the family. Later, during the 1800s, Keeshonden were considered multi-purpose dogs as they would guard nearly anything including riverboats and farms. Pedigree

Research: Holiday Indulgences Can Be Dangerous to Pets

We tend to overindulge over the holiday season, and we share this bad habit with our pets. But new research shows that doing so may lead to serious health conditions, and we should exercise caution during the holidays. It’s the typical Norman Rockwell-type scenario… the family all gathered cheerily around the table for a holiday feast with all the family pets anxiously awaiting scrumptious holiday snacks, and us generously giving in the spirit. Doing so, however, may not be as kind as we think to our pets, as this indulgent feeding we tend to give our pets during the holiday season could lead to diabetes. Research out of the UK shows that pets are getting diabetes at a higher rate than ever before, and most of those pets are overweight as well. In the UK, 1 of ever 300 dogs and 1 of every 200 cats is believed to be affected, with over 20 million pets in total facing this issue. it is believed that over 20 million pets have diabetes. Related: Weighty Facts about Feline Obesity Dogs and cats face similar diabetes risk as it is more common in overweight people (and pets), so veterinarians are suggesting that humans watch the amounts and types of food they give their furry friends during the holidays, and to watch out for signs of diabetes like frequent urination, changes in appetite and unusual thirstiness. If any of these symptoms appear, pet owners are advised to seek treatment immediately, as though diabetes in pets can typically be managed once diagnosed, if not discovered early, can be life-threatening. Age, genetics and lifestyle of pet of course plays a part in risk factor for diabetes, but diabetes is prevalent in Cocker Spaniels, Golden Retrievers, Yorkshire Terriers, Pomeranians, and Dachshunds, as well as Burmese and Abyssinian breed cats. Breed aside, though, data from a well-known pet insurance agency is showing that in the last five years, the incidences of diabetes in pets have increased over 900%. The research showed that cats have seen a 1,161% increase in diabetes while dogs have seen an increase of 850%. In fact, in 2015, the veterinarian charity People’s Dispensary For Sick Animals (PDSA) released a report in which they estimated that by 2020, it would be more common to see an obese pet than it would be to see a healthy one, and this obesity epidemic is now leading to the astronomical increases in pet diabetes. Related: Tipping The Scale For Fat Dogs People are increasingly feeding their pets ‘people food,’ and the holiday season is notorious for extra treats from the table, but this indulgence during the holidays (and any time, really) can lead to obesity and diabetes, which of course threatens the lifespan of pets. Veterinarians generally agree that prevention of diabetes is better than having to treat it, and advise that pet owners follow the food guidelines on the food packages, as well as cutting out treats, particularly ‘table scraps’ that are often high in calories. Doing so can prevent other weight-related illnesses as well, including joint and arthritic pains, and can lengthen the time you have with your pet. So, go ahead…indulge a little this holiday season. Just be sure to keep those treats to yourself, and instead indulge Fido in lots of extra love and pets this holiday season. We promise, he’ll love that just as much, and it’s way better for him too! [Source: Diabetes Forum]

Winter SOS: Cold Weather Safety Tips for Dogs

Winter serves up its own set of safety concerns when it comes to our dogs. By being proactive, you can ensure your dog as a warm and toasty winter. It doesn’t take much to kick those of us north of the border into full winter mode. An errant snow flake, a sale on snow tires or the neighbor putting up Christmas lights in late October. We’re like the Olympic sprinter waiting for the sound of the starter’s pistol to send us off readying our homes and vehicles for the cold winter months ahead. But how much thought do we put into the safety and comfort of our pooches? We all know not to leave them outdoors too long and to protect tender pads when walking on salty roads, but is that enough and what do we do when in spite of our best efforts, weather related injuries occur? These proactive and reactive tips will help ensure your pooch has a safe winter season. Bring Your Pet in During Cold to Freezing Temperatures Even if he loves the colder weather and has a good winter coat; bring him in. Hypothermia is life-threatening, results from extended exposure to cold and compromises your dog’s central nervous system. Strong shivering, shallow breathing or lethargy are the symptoms and require urgent action. Immediately warm blankets (think clothes dryer or radiator) and wrap him up with a covered hot water bottle against his abdomen. Give him warm fluids to drink, keep him in a warm room or space and contact your vet. Related: How to Keep Senior Dogs Comfortable This Winter Change Your Grooming Routine During Colder Months If his upkeep includes regular clipping or shaving opt for a longer cut (or none at all). If you bathe your pooch at home make sure he is completely dry before taking him out for a walk – a dry shampoo is a good alternative. Use a quality paw wax prior to each walk as it forms a protective barrier between pads and salt / ice preventing dry, cracked paws. If your little guy’s feet do become sore, ask your vet to recommend a good pad moisturizer. Don’t use a hand moisturizer as this can soften pads and make them susceptible to further injury. Related: Muttluks, Pawstick and PawMagik Paw Balms Enforce Obedience Your pooch needs to heed your commands during winter. Terms like “leave it” can save his life as antifreeze is a sweet smelling and tasting chemical that is deadly to any pet that stops to sniff and lick when out for his walk. If this does happen, induce vomiting with one teaspoon hydrogen peroxide for each five pounds of weight (maximum 3 teaspoons) within the first two hours, then get him to a your vet for treatment. For those who like to go off-leash in remote areas, your pooch can quickly lose his scent and become lost on a snowy trail or wander onto a partially frozen lake. Make sure calling “come” or his name, is respected. Prepare for Walks Pooches with a shorter coat, who are older or have compromised health need jackets. Salt and ice can result in cracked pads so get Rover used to donning booties and getting a good wipe-down when back inside. Plan shorter routes to avoid frostbite and for really cold days, consider a pee pad so he can stay indoors. Frostbite is ice crystals forming below the skin’s surface and it appears as blistering, swelling or even blackened patches on the ears, pads or scrotum. If it does occur, gently warm the affected areas using warm water compresses or by soaking in warm – not hot -water. Pat dry, don’t massage, and keep your pooch from licking the affected area before you can get him to your vet. Ready Your Outdoor Pooch for the Elements If bringing your dog indoors is not possible you need to set him up for comfort during those icy days and nights. His shelter needs to be water-proof, draft-proof and heated by one of the many options available including the Farm Innovators. His bedding must always be dry so must be checked frequently and because an outdoor dog can burn up to 30% more calories than an indoor dog his food levels need to be increased accordingly. To avoid freezing, food and water bowls need to be heated and Farm Innovators offers several options.

Dog Etiquette 101: 5 Ways How NOT to Greet a Dog

Must. Pet. All. Dogs! It’s tempting to pet and hug every dog you come across, but that may be not what the pooch wants. Here’s what you shouldn’t do when greeting a dog. When you are out and about and you see someone with a dog, it can be tempted to go up to the dog and make friends. What you may not realize, however, is that this simple act could be dangerous – you never know how an unfamiliar dog is going to act and it is simply irresponsible on your part to approach a dog without permission. Keep reading about why it is dangerous to do so and what you should be doing instead. Why is it Dangerous to Approach a Dog Without Permission? There is just something about a cute and cuddly dog that cries out for human attention. But unless it is your own dog crying out for attention, you need to reign in your excitement and exercise some practical restraint. Related: 5 Tips for Overly Friendly Dogs That Will Wander Off With Anyone While in many cases dogs are friendly and they genuinely enjoy human interaction, there are some who do not. It is also true that even the friendliest of dogs can turn defensive (or even aggressive) if he is startled, frightened, or feels threatened in any way. The act of walking up to a dog may seem simple and innocent to you, but a dog that is poorly socialized or simply nervous around other people may not interpret your actions as innocently as you intend them. The Proper Way to Greet an Unfamiliar Dog If you aren’t sure about what is and is not the right way to approach an unfamiliar dog, think about what would be the appropriate action if you were approaching another human. If you saw someone you deemed to be attractive and you wanted to interact with them, you probably wouldn’t go running up to them and start touching them without permission. If you acted in this way, that person would be justified in being a little frightened or uncomfortable, no matter how innocent your intentions. Related: 10 Training Tips for Eager Greeters In the same way, you should think carefully before you act and follow certain steps when greeting an unfamiliar dog. Here are some of those steps that you should take: Ask permission from the dog’s owner if you can approach. Some dogs simply do not take well to strangers and it is bad manners to pet someone else’s dog without permission.Approach slowly and cautiously. If you get permission to approach the dog, do so at a leisurely pace and keep an eye on the dog’s body language for signs of fear.Let the dog approach you on his own. With permission you can approach the dog and reach out your hand for him to sniff but let him take the few final steps on his own.Avoid any potentially threatening behavior. Try to stand with your side toward the dog and do not look him in the eye – these behaviors can be interpreted as threatening.Pet the dog calmly on the side of his face or his body. Do not pet the top of the dog’s head or lean over him threateningly – you can kneel down next to him while petting and speak in a calm manner. While every situation will be unique, you should keep in mind the steps listed above the next time you come across an unfamiliar dog that you want to interact with. Following these steps will help to keep everyone safe – you, your dog, the other dog, and his owner.

Help Kickstarter Pet Backpack Get Off the Ground

Pet Megasin’s new Lambo Pet Backpack is set to take off. Its Kickstarter campaign will go to finishing development of this unique pet carrier that meets carry-on luggage dimensions for easier airline travel. Pet carriers for airline travel come in all varieties, but generally work on the same premise–to keep pets somewhat comfortable while they have to be contained during travel, and this can often be cumbersome when trying to keep up with several suitcases, papers and other things required for traveling. Pet supply manufacturer Pet Magasin has just announced their uniquely designed pet carrier, the Lambo, which is not just a carrier, but also a backpack that makes transporting a pet essentially hands-free.

Saltwater Shopping List For Beginners

Starting up in the saltwater tank hobby is a lot simpler when you have a must-have list of items. Use this list as a start point for your new saltwater aquarium. You’ve been thinking of starting a saltwater tank, but you have no experience. The logical place to begin your adventure is accumulating supplies. Depending on your budget, this may need to be spread out over a length of time, or if you’ve been saving, you could purchase it all at once. In any case, saltwater requires more equipment than the average freshwater aquarium. This article can be used as a starting point to your journey. This is not an all-inclusive list, by any means, but it lists the essential items required. First thing you need a tank. In the world of saltwater, larger tanks are actually easier to maintain than smaller “nano” tanks, due to regulating salinity and other levels of the tank. In a smaller aquarium, these levels are more likely to spiral out of control. For a beginner, a tank of 75 gallons or more would be recommended. While 55 gallon tanks could be used, a 75 gallon tank offers more depth – when you’re adding rocks and sand you’ll want the larger space to work in.Next, you’ll need to decide what your plans are for stocking in the tank -will it be a reef or a fish only tank? This decision will directly impact the next steps, so do your research and make the best decision for you. Related: Choosing Soft or Hard Coral If you’re going with corals, you’ll need to choose a light that’s appropriate for them. Just like plants in freshwater, there are low light and high light corals. This is yet another variable in the mix that will affect your decision. There is a lot more to lighting than we can touch on in this article, but once you’ve decided which corals you’ll be keeping, you can then delve further into the topic to see how much and what kind of light best suits your situation.Protein skimmers are another variable – they are designed to remove particles and waste from the water system, but saltwater keepers argue their necessity. It depends on your preferences, and whether or not you think that they are required for the system to be healthy and clean. Do your research and come to your own educated decision on this matter. Related: Coral Reef-Safe Fish Species for Saltwater Tanks The last item in our basic list of needs for a new saltwater aquarium is filtration. This is another area where there are a few options available, so additional research will be required. One of the options for filtration is a refugium, which essentially is an additional tank to the main tank that shares a water supply but contains other life that either would not survive in the main tank, or that the keeper wants to keep hidden. This can consist of nitrifying bacteria, other corals, fish, and inverts. It all depends on how simple or complicated the keeper wants to be with it. Another option is a sump, which is the same idea to a refugium, but contains no life. It is just an additional supply of water to be shared by the main tank. For example if you have a 75 gallon display tank, and a 55 gallon sump, you then have 130 gallons of water in your system. This just keeps the water cleaner by adding more capacity and uses less space.Once all of these bigger items have been decided upon, there is a slew of smaller items that need to be purchased. A few include a hydrometer to measure the salinity of the water, nets, food, cleaning supplies, and the fish and corals to stock the aquarium. Even the experienced aquarist will forget some of these items when starting a new tank, and it seems there is always another item to be purchased. As stated earlier, this is a basic list of items to gather when starting a saltwater aquarium. It is by no means a complete list, as there is so much to consider. Ample research and education should be done before beginning a tank so that you make the best decisions for your tank and your situation.

German Pinscher

German Pinscher Basics The German Pinscher comes from a long line of German breeds and it was actually used in the development of many other breeds including the Doberman Pinscher, the Rottweiler, and the Affenpinscher. When you see this medium-sized breed you may be tempted to think that he is a friendly, easy-going breed. While the German Pinscher is in fact a loving and loyal companion, he is also intelligent and has strong protective instincts. If you are looking for a smart, loyal guard dog that will also do well with family, the German Pinscher may be a good breed to consider. The German Pinscher comes from a long line of German breeds. Origin The breed currently known as the German Pinscher was at one time known as the Smooth Haired Pinscher. This breed’s origins go as far back as the late 1700s, though its roots can be traced to early German breeds that existed during the 15th century. During the 1800s, pinschers were widely used to guard coaches and to kill vermin – the modern version of the breed didn’t really emerge until the 1950s when Werner Jung began a dedicated breeding program for the German Pinscher. The breed came to the United States in the 1980s and was accepted by the AKC in 2003. Pedigree

Kuvasz

Kuvasz Basics A Hungarian herding dog, the Kuvasz will not only herd animals but he will round up your children as well. The Kuvasz is truly a family dog as he will dedicate himself to loving and protecting his family for life. He is as headstrong as he is loyal and a better best friend would be hard to find. Although he is not an aggressive dog, his sheer size will frighten any intruder however; when it comes to protecting his family, the Kuvasz will die before he allows his family to be harmed. The Kuvasz is not for everyone. Kuvaszok (the plural for Kuvasz) need experienced owners who are willing to go to obedience classes and spend a significant amount of time with the dog. They are incredibly gorgeous dogs but they are also incredibly strong and strong-willed. This is not a breed for newcomers in the dog world. Read on for more information on Kuvaszok. The Kuvasz is truly a family dog as he will dedicate himself to loving and protecting his family for life. Origin The Kuvasz is believed to have originated in Tibet and traveled with the Magyar when they invaded Hungary some 1,200 years ago. The name Kuvasz was derived from a Turkish word, Kawasz. Kawasz is translated to mean “armed guard of the nobility”. With his size, strength and protective nature, it is no wonder that he is considered a bodyguard for many people and their families. Pedigree

Pecs and Pups Will Leave You Panting In The New Year!

What do you get when you combine some hot, shirtless men and an organization dedicated to saving homeless, discarded or abused animals? Advocacy and fundraising at its finest! The new Pecs and Pups calendar is available and guaranteed to make your year memorable with every page turn. Famed celebrity photographer Mike Ruiz (you may know him from Rupaul’s Drag Race) is an advocate for animals. His beloved Pitbull rescue Oliver inspired him to work with animals in need. Oliver had essentially been left for dead before Ruiz adopted him, and that sad situation opened Ruiz’s eyes up to the fact that there were probably many other dogs like Oliver that needed homes. Related: How To Bond With Your Rescue Dog And that’s where Pecs and Pups comes in. Dogs available for adoption through Louie’s Legacy Animal Rescue were randomly chosen, and then paired with hunky, shirtless men to create 18 months of tongue-wagging pictures for a calendar. The profits of the calendar will go 100% to Louie’s Legacy, and will help care for and rehabilitate dogs as they search for their forever homes. Ruiz said that he hopes people realize that paying for a dog does not ensure a healthier or smarter dog, and the truth is that animals rescued from organizations like Louie’s typically are happy, healthy pets who have been cared for and behaviorally assessed in hopes of finding the best matches in families. Related: Rescued Wine Candles Repurpose Wine Bottles While Helping Rescue Animals And though the men are certainly, um, a sight to behold…we’d be lying if we didn’t admit that the dogs really steal each calendar’s page with their adorableness. I mean, seriously. Mr. February is cute and all, but he’s got nothing on that sweet little Chihuahua!

Hilarious Pics of Pets Before And After They’re Complimented

It’s no secret that dogs not only are able to understand the nuances of different tones of voice, but research even shows they understand the words we say, too. People are blowing the internet up with hilarious pictures of their pets–before they are told, “Good boy/girl,” and after…and we are cracking up! It started when reddit user ‘JavaRealllySucks’ posted a goofy picture of a dog before and after he’s called a good boy. The silly dog seemed thrilled to hear those words, and the internet exploded with others inspired to take similar pictures with their pets. We can’t vouch for the authenticity of some, ahem, but we sure can vouch for how adorable (and hilarious!) they are! “Christmas is over…and I’m sooooo bored….Wait, wait!! Me? I’m a good boy???!!!”

Carrot and Applesauce Soft Dog Treat Recipe

Looking to bake up an easy dog treat for your senior pooch? Then this Carrot and Applesauce Soft Dog Treat Recipe will be right up your alley.

French Chow

French Chow Basics It’s quite true that French Bulldogs, commonly known as Frenchies, are infinitely cute and charming. But what if we told you that there is an even cuter, fluffier, and goofier breed? The French Chow is an attractive mix of a French Bulldog and a Chow Chow that is an endless source of fun and affection. Mixing the cuteness of the Frenchies with the size and the protective traits of a Chow Chow, the breeders came up with this great designer dog breed. With the mix of chubby, fluffy looks, great character traits, and affectionate nature, the French Chow is a true conqueror of owner’s hearts – no doubt about it! The French Chow is smart, affectionate, and protective of its family. Origin The origin of individual designer breeds is often hard to track down. When it comes to the French Chow, a lot remains to be guessed: we simply don’t know for certain when the crossbreed first appeared. What we do know is that the craze for designer breeds was at its highest in the 1980s, and during this period a lot of established breeds were crossed to create new breeds. It shouldn’t come as a surprise to learn that the French Chow originated during this time as well. Still, when it comes to the parent breeds, the history is hefty. As the name suggests, the French Chow is a unique combination between the goofy French Bulldog and the fluffy Chow Chow. The former actually originates in England (contrary to its name), where it was first bred and known as the “Toy Bulldog”. The emergence of a smaller, “lap dog” version of the English Bulldog came about with the banning of “bull baiting” in 1835. This was a dangerous “sport”, in which bulldogs were pitted against enraged bulls. From England, the Toy Bulldogs crossed over to France, where the small breed was refined and grew immensely popular as a cuddly and affectionate family pet. The Chow Chow, on the other hand, is an even older breed. It has a quite enigmatic history! It was first bred in China, where there is mention of this powerful breed being used for warfare and sled-pulling. Its true origins might be even older – some 2,000 years before the present! Pedigree Not unlike most designer breeds, a unified look is hard to pinpoint when it comes to French Chow. Breeders often have no clue how a litter is going to turn out: the mix between the parent breeds is often unpredictable. However, the French Chows do have some traits that are shared across the breed. And in recent years, increased attempts were made at creating a unified French Chow appearance. One of the iconic appearance traits that is unpredictable is the bluish dark tongue that can be inherited from the Chow Chow. Your French Chow could or could not have one. The same goes for the ears! But usually, the French Chow will have the iconic “bat” ear shape. Another unpredictable part of their appearance is the tail. The French Chow might have a bobtail or a tail with a curl. Either way, the size of it won’t be too great. When color is considered, French Chow pups can come into the world in black, brindle, fawn, red, or cream colors. In some rare cases, a hybrid may appear, being white, with black or red patches. Food / Diet When it comes to caring for your four-legged friend, their diet should be one of your primary concerns – it has a big impact on their health and wellbeing. Both Frenchies and the Chow Chows can be somewhat voracious, with a great tendency for overeating. The French Chow could also share that tendency, so make sure that their portions are measured according to their weight and exercise levels. If overfed, the French Chow could very well become obese, and that is a situation that can lead to numerous health problems down the road. Of course, if you are ever in doubt about which type of food to go for, don’t hesitate to take the advice of your local veterinarian. They can give you the best insight into the diverse types of food and the nutrients that your pet can need the most. In general, French Chows do well with high-quality dry food formulated to meet their nutritional needs. As long as the portions are measured with care and supplemented with other vital nutrients! The French Chow is an attractive mix of a French Bulldog and a Chow Chow that is an endless source of fun and affection. Training It’s no secret that Frenchies can be a bit willful. These are the true goofs of the dog world and are often stubborn, mischievous, and inquisitive. The Chow Chow, on the other hand, can be somewhat aloof and more serious. The result of their combination is quite unique when the ability for training is considered. It shouldn’t come as a surprise to meet some initial stubbornness when you attempt to train your French Chow. The breed is certainly intelligent, and a bit strong-willed. They will learn commands without many flaws, but a bit of persuasion will be needed first. Arm yourself with patience and some treats, and you should see progress in due time. Of course, the best way to make this progress quickly is with positive reinforcement. Reward your dog for good behavior, and avoid punishment for errors! Weight Where the French Bulldog is a generally small-sized breed, the Chow Chow is without a doubt robust and bulky. So what about their outcome? Who do the weight and size lean to? And the answer is no one! The French Chows are somewhere in the middle between the two parent breeds and can be fitted in the medium-size category. In general, you should expect your pet to be between 30 and 50 pounds in weight, and around 14 inches tall. Temperament / Behavior The French Chow is a unique breed, with many qualities that make them great pets for families of all sizes. They are noted for their goofy expressions and antics, but also for their great intelligence and affectionate nature. And it’s no secret that they can even be a bit protective of their family! And to make things even better, the French Chow can be superb around children. All of this makes them ideal as companion pets and family pets. Of course, a lot of these traits need to be spurred forward while your dog is still in the puppy stages. If you fail to socialize the puppy and neglect it in any way, these positive traits might never develop properly. The main thing to curb with socialization is possible aggression. The Chow Chow can be protective of its family and territory, so make sure to give them a puppyhood surrounded with love and positivity. Common Health Problems The French Chow is generally a hardy and healthy breed, especially when given ample care and regular vet checkups. However, no dog is exempt from possible health problems. For the French Chows, one of the common threats is a brachycephalic syndrome. This is inherited from both parent breeds. The Frenchie is of course a brachycephalic breed, meaning it has a short muzzle. Interestingly, the Chow Chow is brachycephalic as well, although it might not be as obvious as with the Frenchie. Due to this, the French Chow could have a short muzzle and the problems that come with it. Mostly these are obstructions of the upper airways. You will have to avoid over-exerting your dog and avoid great heat. Another possible threat is hip dysplasia, an inherent condition with the hip joints that affect many dog breeds across the world. Also, both Chow Chows and Frenchies have the possibility of forming kidney stones. This possibility is passed on to the French Chow. Urinary stones are quite a painful condition, but they can be treated. Life Expectancy Considering the healthy lifespans of both the Chow Chow and the French Bulldog, it can be safely said that the French Chow can have a general life expectancy between 10 and 15 years. Taking into account the fact that 15 years is the maximum for most established breeds, the French Chow really has it good! But this shouldn’t be a surprise, considering the breed’s good genes, robustness, and a good health foundation Of course, this is still just an estimate. To make sure you have a healthy puppy that grows to its golden years without many issues, get your French Chow from a reputable breeder and provide optimal care throughout their life, from a balanced diet to regular vet checkups. Exercise Requirements The Frenchie can be quite a spunky breed, while the Chow Chow can be a bit sluggish and composed. Because of this difference, the French Chow can have unique energy levels. It might become your duty to motivate your pet to do some important exercise. But in the end, the French Chow won’t prove to be an overly athletic breed, and its exercise requirements will be moderate. You should establish a healthy daily routine of classic leashed walks, and some energetic play in the park. An occasional outdoor adventure in nature might be great fun as well! French Chow won’t prove to be an overly athletic breed – their energy levels are moderate. Recognized Clubs A relatively new and hybrid dog breed, the French Chow is not listed on the American Kennel Club list of accepted breeds. Likewise, it is not listed on the worldwide Designer Breed Registry (DBR), the American Canine Hybrid Club (ACHC), or the Designer Dogs Kennel Club (DDKC). Still, this doesn’t mean that the French Chow is not on a stellar path towards inclusion in either one of these lists! Coat French Chow dogs can safely be considered moderate shedders. Inheriting the fluffy coat of the Chow Chow, these hybrid dogs might leave some hairy trails on your furniture, especially when it’s shedding season. To that end, you should establish a regular grooming routine, brushing lightly a few times per week. This will help you maintain good hygiene and to keep your pet’s coat as free from loose hair as possible. Baths, on the other hand, should be kept down to a moderate level, as you wouldn’t want to dry out your pet’s skin. Puppies French Chow puppies can be such adorable balls of fluff! It will be hard to resist that cuteness! But still, this is not an open invitation for eager hands to come and give endless snuggles to the pups. This can be harmful and stressful, especially in those early stages of life. But as soon as your French Chow puppies become stable and aware, they will begin expressing their inquisitive and goofy side. And you should not deprive them of some important early socialization! Socialization is crucial for developing important character traits. Introduce your puppy to new dogs, kids, and adults. This will help prevent some nasty behavioral issues from developing. Neglected as puppies, the French Chow dogs can exhibit traces of aggression, aloofness, and over-protection. And that is never good! Photo credit: Hitomi Hi/Shutterstock

Daniff

Daniff BasicsThe Daniff is also known as the Great Daniff, Mastidane, and English Daniff. If you’re looking for the type of dog that you can hold in the palm of your hand, then the Danliff sure isn’t it. This is the sort of dog that feels as much like a roommate as it does a pet. These dogs will make their presence known through the physical space that they take up, but they will also win you over with their stellar personality.These are gentle giants that will protect you and love you forever. They are big but their hearts are even bigger! You’ll love the snuggles and slobbery smooches this imposing doggo will give you without hesitation. These lovable pups will snuggle you into submission. You can try not to love them, but you will fail. Of course, it’s not just about devotion, affection, and loyalty with these unique mixes. The Daniff has so much more than that to offer to the right owner.As a designer dog breed, the Daniff is a combination of two popular purebred- the Great Dane and the Mastiff. Due to their unusual ancestry, these dogs bring the best of both worlds to the table. Boasting the traits of two giant dog breeds, the Daniffs are truly something special. If you love either of the parental breeds, chances are you’ll be mad about the Daniff! That’s how genetics work, people!Good-natured, sweet, and adaptable with the right approach, the Daniff will appeal to many different types of pet owners. Naturally, this doesn’t make them a perfect choice for anybody- these dogs do require some special care and conditions to be happy. You might fall for this dog as soon as you meet one, but you should learn more about what these dogs need before introducing one to your family. How do you do that? Simple, you stay on this page to find out everything that you could possibly want to know about these remarkable animals. So, read on to find out all about the Daniff and by the end you’ll know whether or not one of these big beauties home.The Daniff is a cross between a purebred Great Dane and Mastiff.Origin Much like many designer dog breeds, the Daniff has a sadly mysterious past. While we know that these gentle giants are slowly but steadily growing in popularity, no one knows when the breed had its start. However, as the International Designer Canine Registry only started registering this breed in 2009, it’s safe to assume that the Great Dane and Mastiff mix is one of the more recent hybrid breeds- and that their intentional crossbreeding became popular sometime in the last 10 to 15 years alongside the rise of designer dogs in general. While there is no information about the breeders who first started to crossbreed these two giant purebreds, it’s safe to assume that this happened in the United States, where most designer dogs were first developed. It’s a shame that no one wants to claim credit for the creation of these remarkable animals because they truly made the world a better place.Despite the short history and enigmatic origins of the Daniff, we do know a lot about this new and unusual breed. Their parentage speaks volumes about the qualities they have! The Great Dane is thought to have been created more than 4 centuries ago, and the Mastiff’s roots go as far as the 15th century. Throughout their long histories, both of the parental breeds have been praised and cherished as pets and guard dogs. The Daniff shouldn’t thought of that differently from his mom and dad! They combine the best traits of both beloved breeds!Pedigree

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