Dog Breeds

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Dog Breeds Types of Terrier

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Types of Terriers – Yorkshire Terrier The Yorkshire Terrier was originally bred in Yorkshire, U.K., during the 19th

century, specifically to catch the numerous rats which roamed throughout the many clothing mills in the county. The most distinguishing features of a true Yorkshire Terrier – or ‘Yorkie’ – as you will often hear him referred to, are its small size and its smooth, tan and blue-gray colored coat which is traditionally parted down the center of the back. When he’s born, more often than not, a Yorkshire Terrier pup will be black, possibly with tan markings, and he may also sport white patches on his chest, belly and feet. Over time, these will disappear as the overall color of the terrier changes to the more recognizable tan and blue-gray, although it can take as long as three years or more for the coat to achieve its permanent color. The long hair of the coat is very often allowed to grow almost down to the floor, but always maintained at a length short enough so as not to restrict the dog’s movement. Likewise, the hair on the feet and above the eyes can grow very long, and it’s recommended that this is kept short with home trimming when necessary. However, many owners prefer to tie their Yorkie’s hair in a ribbon on top of their head than cut it. A Yorkie’s long coat will need daily grooming to keep it looking its best, otherwise it will soon become tangled and messy. However, if you cannot commit to this, you may like to consider having his coat clipped short, which is a far more practical option. Incidentally, Yorkies are great dogs for allergy sufferers, as their coat hardly sheds at all. Brought to you by Dogs – All you need to know. Visit my website http://www.allyouneedtoknowaboutdogs.com


As every dog is unique, no two will have the same character, but in general, Yorkies are energetic, inquisitive and intelligent. They love to be up and about, making sure that they know what’s going on around them. Conversely, they also love to be comfortable, and if there’s an opportunity to snuggle down on the couch or a big, soft pillow, they won’t let it pass them by. A Yorkshire Terrier can prove a tough cookie when it comes to training. By nature, they are independent dogs and although they are quick to learn, quite often, they will prefer to do what they want to do, rather than what you want them to do. Because of this, a lot of time and patience is required during training. Yorkies are often cautious, but they also have a very bold side to their nature. This, coupled with the fact that they love to chase things, means that they will think nothing of running after a dog twice their size. Unfortunately though, this is where they can come unstuck. If two dogs of a similar size to each other had an altercation, there’s no saying which one would come off worst. However, because he’s so small, pretty much any dog would have the advantage over a Yorkie. For example, if a larger dog were to pick him up by the neck and shake him, that would most likely prove fatal. For this reason, it’s crucial that they are always kept under supervision and on a leash whilst they’re out. Likewise, at home, great care must be taken to ensure that you don’t accidentally sit or step on your Yorkshire Terrier. When they’re curled up in a ball on the couch, or lying by the side of it, they’re very easy to miss, so vigilance is key. Although they love companionship and thrive on interaction with people, a Yorkie is generally not suited to young children. It’s very appealing to a child to pick up a small dog and they don’t always appreciate their fragility. For example, if they were to hold him too tight, or be a little rough with him – albeit unintentionally – this could result in the dog becoming injured, or at the very least, uncomfortable and afraid. This being the case, he may injure himself trying to get away, or bite the child out of fear. Also, Yorkies are generally not comfortable around lots of noise and usually, where there are children, there is noise! It’s very important to take every opportunity to socialize your Yorkshire Terrier with other dogs. They can be very territorial and generally won’t make friends with other dogs of their own accord, but if you supervise introductions between them, chances are that things will work out fine. A Yorkshire Terrier is a loving and affectionate dog who will give many years of joy and companionship with an average life expectance of between 12 – 18 years. Miniature Yorkies, however, have a much shorter lifespan, generally only reaching 7 or 8 years old at best. Brought to you by Dogs – All you need to know. Visit my website http://www.allyouneedtoknowaboutdogs.com


A Yorkie doesn’t need long walks – little and often is better. Alternatively, a secure garden or yard where he can run around is great for this dog, although in wet weather, you may have a struggle on your hands to get him out at all! Such is their dislike of bad weather that you may like to consider making an undercover area outside where he can go to the toilet, or designate a separate area inside with a litter tray if you have the space. A Yorkie only has a small bladder, so he will need to pee quite often. It should be said though, that house training a Yorkie can pose a few problems, but as with any other training, keep at it with patience and they’ll get it eventually. You may even like to consider a small dog flap in the door so that he can go out whenever he needs to. Because they’re so alert, a Yorkie has a tendency to bark quite a lot. Observant and always aware of what’s going on around him, the Yorkshire Terrier will bark like crazy to alert you to the presence of visitors to your home, so – in spite of their size – they make great watchdogs. However, this barking can all too easily become the norm unless you train him – early on – to stop when you tell him to. As barking is an instinct, to stop your Yorkie from doing it will not be easy. However, it is possible, although you may need to enlist the help of a dog trainer or behaviouralist on this one to speed the process along. Yorkies were not put on this earth to be dressed up and carried around in handbags as fashion accessories. They’re terrific little dogs with big personalities, and they love to frolic and play. To restrict their ability to do this will result in a snappy and fearful, dog with little or no character traits left. However, a Yorkie who is allowed to be the true dog that he is will be a happy, well-balanced and great companion for life.

Types of Terriers – Cairn Terrier The Cairn terrier has a pleasant, friendly temperament and an incredibly playful nature. As with many terriers, they are intelligent, curious and strong-willed and

will need firm and consistent training to ensure that they do not


try to assume the position of ‘pack leader’ – which they will do – given half a chance! It not properly trained, there is a strong possibility that the dog will begin to suffer from anxiety, stubbornness and irritability, which could result in him becoming snappy, disobedient and destructive. They are resilient little terriers with small pointed ears and strong, well-defined muzzles – remember Toto, the little dog in the Wizard of Oz? He was a Cairn terrier. Their shaggy coats are weather-resistant – with a soft undercoat which acts as a lining for a hardy top coat. Originally used to chase and dig out vermin, and other predatory animals, the instinct to dig has remained with the Cairn terrier and if one thing’s for sure, it’s that they still love to dig! If you’re out and about with your Cairn terrier in a park or in the countryside and he is off the leash, you will need to be aware of where he is at all times, as it is not uncommon for these little dogs to go to ground. At the very least, your terriers desire to chase will be sparked on spotting a squirrel, rabbit, rat or similar small animal and if their hiding place is a hole in the ground, you can bet that your dog will try to follow. Generally, the Cairn terrier will socialize extremely well people and with other dogs, although on occasion, he may take an instant dislike to a dog for no apparent reason. In such a case, it is unlikely that he will do anything other than bark, but these terriers are feisty little creatures and he may try to run at the dog. Be on your guard in such situations, as Cairn terriers are known for their persistence and they do not easily back down – which could prove to be to their detriment. As with many terriers, the Cairn has a tremendous capacity for exercise – probably far more than that of their owner. With this in mind, at home, this terrier will appreciate a secure yard or garden in which to run around but if neither is available, a brisk walk on the leash should be given at least twice a day. Regular grooming of your Cairn terrier should be carried out, otherwise his coat will very quickly become matted and knotted. A daily gentle brushing will ensure that he always looks his best, but as Cairns don’t tend to shed a lot of hair, don’t be surprised if not much comes out on the brush. When his hair becomes so long that it’s falling over his eyes, give it a trim, or take him for a haircut, when the groomer will bathe him at the same time. When you take him for a haircut, it’s a good time to ask the groomer to clip his nails as well. This can be done at home, but unless you have experience, it’s much quicker and easier for the groomer to do it. Alternatively, you could ask him to show you how to do it for the future. The height of a fully-grown Cairn terrier will vary between 8″ to 14″ and the weight, between 12lbs and 18lbs. They have a tendency to gain weight rather easily, so it’s important to keep an eye on their diet and make sure that they get the exercise they need.

Brought to you by Dogs – All you need to know. Visit my website http://www.allyouneedtoknowaboutdogs.com


Click the link below to visit my site for much more information on dogs http://www.allyouneedtoknowaboutdogs.com

Brought to you by Dogs – All you need to know. Visit my website http://www.allyouneedtoknowaboutdogs.com


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