The Pug

The pug is a lovable, rambunctious and loyal. Although the origin of the pug is unknown most researchers agree it descended from the short haired Pekingese in Asia. Although some believe it is the result of a small bulldog cross. Whatever the matter may be the pug is still one of the most happy fun loving breeds out there. They are very good with children and they love just about everyone. Pugs also make great watch dogs. Pugs are very intelligent so they pick up training pretty quickly. On the other hand though, If a command is constantly repeated, because of the pugs high intelligence level, they may become bored with it and decide to do their own thing. Pugs are sensitive to their owner's tone of voice so harsh punishment isn't necessary for this breed. Pugs are small dogs so they do not require a lot of exercise. A daily long walk is all that is needed. A yard is not necessary for these little breeds. Since pugs have such short muzzles they are prone to breathing problems. Be sure not to over do it with your pug or this could be damaging to him. Pugs are sensitive to both very hot and very cold weather so be sure to keep your pug inside most of the time where it is comfortable for him. Pugs also catch colds easily so keep this in mind when you take them out for walks. Pugs have the tendency to over eat and become lazy so make sure that you do not over feed him and that he gets his needed amount of exercise. Grooming is relatively easy for this breed. Brush and comb with a firm bristle brush regularly and bathe only when necessary. This breed is a heavy seasonal shedder so keep this in mind. So as a review, the pug is a great dog for families given his lovable disposition. He does have some health problems that you need to take in to consideration. Exercising and training this dog is a breeze. If you keep these pug facts in mind when choosing your dog you will be on your way to discovering whether this is the right breed for you.

All About Crossbreeds and How You Can Save A Life

I wanted to take this opportunity to discuss something that has been on my mind lately. I know that every time I post about a dog it is about a pure breed. I wanted to let my readers know, though, that this is in no way to discourage anyone of you from adopting a crossbreed dog.I only post about pure breeds because by knowing the characteristics of the breeds put into a crossbreed then you can have an idea of what your dog will turn out to be like.

Crossbreeds make great pets and are usually less expensive then a pure breed. They are not inferior to pure breeds although some people might feel that they are. They are still the tail wagging little buddies that we have all come to know and love. Your crossbreed isn't going to be any less loving or capable then a pure breed. Animal shelters are packed with tons of dogs, many of them crossbreeds, that need homes. Don't just go for the pure bred dogs at the shelter, consider the crossbreeds too .They are just as sweet as any dog and they need homes desperately. So many of these dogs are euthanized at animal shelters because nobody wants them. When you adopt from an animal shelter you are saving a life. It doesn't matter whether the dog is pure or crossed, they all need homes. I guess what I am trying to say is you can adopt whatever dog you please but do it for the right reason, to save a life, and not so that you can just get a pure bred dog cheap.

Here are some pictures of cross breed dogs. They don't look weird or demented. They are cute and lovable just like any other dog.

Visit your local animal shelter's website today and see what doggies are available for adoption in your area.

The Brussels Griffon

The Brussels Griffon is an affectionate, lively and lovable dog. Brussels Griffons were once kept by cab drivers of the 17Th century to catch the vermin in their stables. Today the Brussels Griffon makes a great companion dog for most everyone. Brussels are very affectionate and they love everyone. They are extremely sociable so they need to be involved in family activities. Brussels Griffons have many human like expressions that many times cause the owner to treat them as just that, a little human. This can be damaging, though, because then they start to think that they are the pack leader which can lead to unruly behavior. These are not traits that are bred into the Brussels Griffon but this behavior is brought on by a lack of a firm, confident leader . First time dog owners should probably not consider this breed unless they are certain that they can be firm enough for the breed. Brussels can be a little difficult to train so patience is key. Brussels engage in a lot of exercise within the home so, they do not require a lot of exercise, making them a suitable dog for apartment living. A daily walk is enough for them. Brussels Griffons have a wiry coat that doesn't require a lot of work. It just needs to be clipped every now and then. Brussels shed little to not at all. If you are interested in purchasing this breed for breeding it is not recommended. Brussels do not breed easily and when they do have puppies normally they only have two in a litter. So here is a quick review of the Brussels Griffon: Brussels need a firm consistent owner to set rules for him. They are very sociable animals that do great with people of all ages and lastly grooming is a breeze for these little pups. By taking into consideration the points mentioned above you can decide whether the Brussels Griffon is the right breed for you.

The Wheaten Terrier

The Wheaten Terrier is an intelligent,gentle and playful dog. This breed originated in Ireland where it was used to catch vermin and other small prey. Today the Wheaten is an ever growing breed in the U.S. Wheaten Terriers are very playful and energetic making them a great family pet. Wheatens need to be introduced to different people and situations at a young age so that he can learn what is appropriate behavior when it comes to these things. Wheatens can do well with children if they are introduced to them at a very young age. Wheatens are not recommended for sharing a home with cats or other small creatures because any little move by them and the Wheatens' instincts will take over. Wheatens don't need much exercise except for a daily walk. They do enjoy playing with their owners, though, so they need to be played with on a daily basis as well. Since Wheatens have such a high intelligence level they enjoy games that exercise them both physically and mentally. Wheatens are needy and so they demand a lot of attention from their owners. People who work many long hours are not recommended for this breed.Wheaten Terriers are intelligent dogs so they will generally grasp quickly what is expected of them but, this doesn't mean that training them will be a breeze. Wheatens need a firm hand to train them or else this intelligence can cause them to challenge their owners pack leader rights. Strict rules and limitations need to be set for a Wheaten Terrier in order for them to obey. Wheaten Terriers have a blond coat( when they are full grown ) that needs to be combed frequently to prevent any knots and tangles. Brushing isn't recommended for this breeds' coat because it tends to make their fur fuzzy. Wheatens do not shed in the Spring and Fall. Even then though loose hair should be combed out of the coat. Wheatens have a tendency to jump on people when they want attention. Owners of this breed can not allow this to happen. Wheatens must be taught early on that jumping on guests is not acceptable behavior. By taking into account what has been stated above and by following the few guidelines set for raising your own Wheaten Terrier you should have a great companion for years to come.

The Puli

The Puli or other known as the Hungarian water dog is a witty, facetious, and lovable dog. This dog was originally bred in Hungary where they were used to herd sheep. Today many have found this little breed to be a charming addition to their household. Pulis are a very cheerful and lively breed. They love to play with their owners. They are a very adaptable dog making them ideal for anyone on the go. Pulis are not recommended for small children because children tend to be a little rough and this breed needs to be handled with care. These dogs are protective of their owners although they never become aggressive. If they sense that their owner is in danger they may give a verbal warning. Pulis are very intelligent making training them a breeze but, if rules aren't laid down for them they will naturally set some for themselves. Pulis do not require a lot of exercise because they are quite active indoors. A daily walk is really all that is necessary. Some Pulis enjoy the water and swim very well, but not all do. If you decide to take this dog for a swim don't leave him unsupervised until it is evident that your you Puli can swim. Pulis don't shed. Grooming this breed isn't very difficult but it is a little different from the way you would normally groom a dog. Pulis have cord coats. Mats develop in their cords so hand separation is the way to get rid of that. Pulis aren't born with this coat. As they develop they start to grow their cord coat. During these growing years separating the cords is vital. Bathing these dogs is an easy job because bathing Pulis is like washing a sweater. The difficult part is drying them. If you use a dryer it can take a few hours to dry your Puli. If you don't it can take up to two days for a Puli to become fully dry. This is something to consider before getting your own Puli. Overall, the Puli makes a great dog for someone who can train, prescribe boundaries and groom him properly.

The Catahoula Leopard Dog

The Catahoula Leopard dog is an independent,active and agile dog. No one is really sure where this breed originated but the state of Louisiana is said to be the place of origin. This breed was used there to herd feral animals.(live stock that ran away) They are called Catahoula LEOPARD dogs because of their leopard like markings all over their bodies.Today the Catahoula is still used to herd animals but it is also used as a pet. These dogs are affectionate and protective. They are okay with new people as long as they get the opportunity to sniff them first. Catahoulas do well in a family as long as the owner is experienced in making it known who the pack leader is. This breed needs a lot of attention so they do not do well being tied in the backyard for long hours. This can cause them to become aggressive towards people. Catahoula Leopard dogs are very active ( though not dangerously active like the Springer Spaniel,Jack Russell,etc.)so a long daily walk and a run in the yard is required. Without this daily workout the breed can become destructive in the house. Catahoulas have a single coat so this makes grooming them a breeze. On the other side, because they only have one layer they need a place for refuge in the Winter. A very interesting fact about these dogs is that they have the unique ability to climb trees. In case you didn't notice the picture above is not a profile picture of the breed. It is a picture of him in the tree. I thought this picture could show you a little more on their personality. So overall, the Catahoula is a lively dog that would make a great pet for anyone who can give him firm training and the exercise and attention he needs.

This post is dedicated to my reader Tanya who wanted to know more about this rare breed.

Ziggy

Bellow is my hamster Ziggy. I thought you might like to play with him.

Hamster

The Great Dane

The Great Dane is a friendly, compassionate, and attentive dog. These breeds originated from Germany where they were used as watchdogs. Despite the name Great "Dane" this breed has nothing to do with Denmark. Great Danes are known as the "gentle giant" They are massive dogs coming to 30-34 in. in height and 120-200 lbs. Danes are very sweet and affectionate dogs that do very well with children because they are naturally patient and playful with them. These dogs love people and so they need to be socialized often. This breed also makes a great watch dog. They are attentive and loyal to their families and thus will protect them. Training these dogs from a young age is a must so that they can be handled when they reach their full size. These dogs have a short coat so brushing and combing weekly is really all that is needed. Bathing this huge breed is a bear so taking them to a groomers every few months is the best choice.These dogs are an average shedder. Great Danes need a lot of exercise. A daily walk is needed and a fenced in yard is probably also a good idea.The one downer about these dogs is that because they are so big they have a short life expectancy, normally 10 years and under. In conclusion, Great Danes make great pets for families who will love,play and exercise him , and who understand that he has a short life expectancy.

This post is dedicated to my friend Mattea's mom who wanted to know a little more about the gentle giants.

Attention Viewers

Hi everyone I wanted to inform you that we have a winner for my contest. That winners name is xomatteaox9701. She chose the Great Dane. Also this commenter is the wiewer of the month. Thanks Mattea. I also want to encourage all my viwers to keep commenting . You never know when I will pick your choice for my next breed. So don't give up! Talk to you soon.

Monique

Here Is a Question For You

Hey readers I thought it would be nice to get you guys involved in the dog I decide to post on next.As you know I post about a new dog breed every week. You guys can help determine the next breed I post about. All you have to do is click on the little comment button and type in the breed name and maybe a reason why you want that breed next. The person with the best reason for their dog breed is the dog I choose. So get to writing. Hope to hear from you guys soon.

The Newfoundland

The Newfoundland is a loyal, gentle and protective dog. Newfies were originally used to aid fisherman in hauling in nets, rescuing drowning victims and carrying boat lines to shore. This breed is known as a gentle giant. They are excellent with kids and pretty much with everyone else. This breed is extremely protective and can sense danger. When their family is threatened they don't growl or get aggressive but rather, they get between the threat and their family. Newfies can live in an apartment as long as they get a daily walk. This breed is a swimmer so swimming every now and then is essential. The only bad thing about this breed is their coat maintenance. They have a very large coat which needs a good brushing weekly with a hard brush. They also shed heavy both in Fall and Spring so extra care is needed at these times. Bathing is something you want to avoid unless absolutely necessary because this strips away their natural body oils. Instead a dry shampoo every now and then is recommended. Also because of the large coats this breed is sensitive to heat so a shady place and plenty of water is necessary. Overall, the Newfoundland makes a great family pet for a family who can take him for swims and keep up with all the maintenance his coat requires.

The Gordon Setter

The Gordon Setter is a playful ,loyal and gentle dog. This breed was originally bred in Scotland where they were used as a bird dog. They have retrieving abilities and they point when finding prey. Today the Gordon Setter is used as a loving family companion. Naturally Gordons are very sociable dogs making it easy for them to get along with everyone. They do very well with children because they are a gentle breed. Gordons are easily trained when started from a young age. Owners need to make it clear to this breed who is boss or they can become stubborn. Gordons are not recommended for apartment living. They are energetic dogs that need at least a daily walk and a fenced in yard to romp in. Brushing weekly is pretty much all that is required for a Gordon's coat in addition to a trim every few months. They are average shedders. The only real con with this breed is that they do like to wander so a fenced in yard is a must. In conclusion , the Gordon Setter is a great family pet for owners who can take the time to train him and give him plenty of exercise.

The Basenji

The Basenji is an extremely compassionate, charming, and unique breed of dog. What sets them apart is that they can not bark. If you are looking for a guard dog then obviously this wouldn't be your best choice. Basenjis were originally found in Egypt where they were used for hunting. This breed is extremely energetic and enjoys family company. They do better with older children. This breed needs a lot of exercise in order to keep it happy. They love playing with their owners. A lot of times they will tease their owners in to playing with them.This breed is eager to please and intelligent making training them a semi easy task. Grooming is not a problem with Basenjis because, much like a cat, they tend to groom themselves. They have very short coats which shed very little to no hair at all. Another unique and great thing about this breed is that they have no odor at all. I know I would have appreciated that with my dog, talk about smelly. The one downer with this amazing little breed is that they are prone to getting Fanconi's Syndrome, a kidney disorder. Also some Basenjis hate to get wet so walking them in the rain just isn't going to work. Overall the Basenji is an amazing pet for a family who isn't looking for a guard dog but just for a playing companion.

To My Readers

Dear Readers,
I am sorry for the long interruption in my blog. I have been really busy with everything and I have put Dogamania on hold. I just wanted to let you guys know that I am back and that I am coming back with a new twist. I am now starting a new chapter in Dogamania. From here on out I am writing about those breeds you don't hear everyday like the Brussels Griffin, the Puli, the Mexican hairless and many more. But don't worry I am not leaving the common breeds in the dust. They are coming back soon. So I don't want to make this too long and bore you guys so I just wanted to let you know that I am back after this long intermission.( really long) Hope you like my new twist and if you don't, write me about it. I need your fee back because you are the readers. I want this blog to interest you guys. Alright there I go with talking too much again. I'll talk to you guys soon.

Monique

The Beagle

The Beagle is a curious, sociable,and energetic dog. This breed originated in England where it was used as a hunting dog for small game. Today the Beagle is still used as a hunting dog as well as a family pet. The beagle has a very sociable temperament. They love attention and they do really great with kids. Beagles are also very curious dogs, though, so this can make training them a bit difficult. Beagles need a patient leader who understands that their dog isn't always going to focus the way they would like.After a strong leader is evident to the beagle, then they learn quickly. Beagles are hunting dogs which means they have a lot of energy. They need a daily walk and a yard to romp in when needed. Grooming is relatively easy with this breed. A weekly brushing is all that is needed. This breed is an average shedder. The only thing you want to be aware of when considering this breed is that they are in the hound group meaning that they bark and howl like you wouldn't believe. A firm hand is needed in teaching this breed to keep the barking to a minimum. In conclusion, the Beagle is a great dog for a family that can train, exercise, and socialize him as much as possible.

This post is dedicated to my very close friend Apryl.

The Welsh Corgi

The Welsh Corgi is a lively, protective and intelligent dog. The breed was originated in Wales where it was used as a herding dog. Since Corgis have such long,small bodies, they were able to roll out of the way when a cow tried to kick at them. Today, Corgis are used as companion and guard dogs. Corgis are very loyal and mild tempered dogs which makes them a great pet for all ages. Training is not very difficult with this breed as long as the owner makes it clear to them that they are the leader. Exercise is also not very difficult to manage for this breed. They can exercise themselves in the house so just a daily walk is required. Grooming is an easy job with these breeds because of their short coat. They shed twice a year. One con about these dogs is that they do tend to nip at peoples' heels if they aren't trained otherwise. Corgis do also have a natural instinct to protect their owners. This can be a very good thing as long as the owner trains teaches them that aggression is not needed nor acceptable in a household. Overall, the Corgi makes a great pet for a family for people who can train,exercise, and most importantly love him properly.

This post is dedicated to my friend Tara.

The English Mastiff

The English Mastiff is a loyal, gentle, and lovable dog. This breed was originally used in fighting arenas because of their huge size. Today mastiffs are a lovable family dog. Despite their scary appearance, Mastiffs are gentle giants. They love people and are great with children. Mastiffs are trained easily with a gentle hand and of course positive reinforcement. Mastiffs tend to be a lazy breed so regular exercise is needed to keep them in shape. Grooming is relatively easy with this breed because they have short coats. Mastiffs are moderate shedders. A downer with this dog is that they do drool a lot because of the way their jaw is formed. A drool rag is a need for this breed. Mastiffs are also naturally protective, so socialization at a young age is important so that they will see that strangers can be trusted somewhat. In conclusion, Mastiffs do well with a family who can train them, and love them consistently. (Despite the drooling)

This post is dedicated to my friend Mattea.

The Weimaraner

The Weimaraner is a loyal, protective, and energetic breed. The origin of this breed is a little fuzzy but what we do know is that the weim was used as a retrieving and hunting dog. Today this breed is used as a family dog. Training these dogs is a little bit challenging because Weims have a short attention span and they are distracted easily. A firm trainer is needed for these breeds. Weims need a lot of exercise because they are an extremely energetic breed. A daily long walk and some off leash time are best for them. Weims are moderate shedders so grooming is an easy job. Most importantly weimaraners are very sociable and lovable dogs when they are socialized at a young age. Weims do make good family pets but they need to be watched with young children. Since they are very large they tend to knock kids over, so if you have kids with this breed watch out for that. Overall, the Weimaraner makes a great family pet for a family who can exercise him, patiently train him, and most importantly love him right.

This post is dedicated to my mom, Tanya.

The Australian Shepard

The Australian Shepard is a loyal,energetic,and intelligent dog. Untrue to its name the Australian Shepard was not bred in Australia. This dog was bred right here in the U.S. as a herding dog. Aussies today are still used as a herding dog as well as a family pet. They are a very gentle breed so they do extremely well with kids. Aussies are known for their high energy. In order to keep this dog well exercised a daily walk is a good start. Owners of this breed find it easier to keep Aussies under control in the house if they are given a job to do. Such as pulling a wagon or something else that requires work. As far as shedding goes Aussies are average. They don't need much grooming. Aussies are very intelligent dogs and are eager to please so training is a breeze.Since Australian Shepards have so much energy an apartment life is not good for them . They need a lot of room to run around. The one con about this dog is that they do tend to nip, in an attempt to herd their owners, if they aren't taught otherwise. In conclusion the Australian Shepard is a good family pet for a family that can properly exercise, train, and most importantly love him.

This post is dedicated to my older brother Aaron.

The Shiba Inu

The Shiba Inu is a independent, energetic, and bold dog. This breed was first bred in Japan to flush birds and hunt small game. The Shiba is the smallest of the Japanese Spitz dogs. Today the Shiba Inu is used as a family dog. They are very independent and gentle dogs. Since they are gentle they make great pets for kids. The Shiba is very trainable because despite their independent attitude they want to please. These little dogs are also fastidious, so house braking is relatively easy. Grooming this dog is very easy because they have short fur. A brushing once a week and bathing only when necessary is all they need. Shibas are energetic dogs but they do know how to get exercise indoors so, a daily walk, however long you can give them, is sufficient. One thing that you want to take into consideration before you buy this little guy is that he does have heavy shedding periods. Overall the Shiba Inu is a great family pet for owners who can give him exercise and who don't mind pet hair.

This post is dedicated to my very good friend Leia.

The Jack Russell Terrier

The Jack Russell Terrier is an energetic, spunky, fun loving dog. This breed was originally bred to hunt game such as rabbits, squirrels, and other small critters. They are very fast so they can keep up with the other hunting dogs. Today this dog is used as a companion and family dog. Jacks are extremely energetic and require a daily walk. These dogs need training from an experienced dog owner who knows how to "lay down the law" as it were. Jacks tend to think that they are the pack leader if it is not made very clear that they aren't. Jacks are very intelligent dogs so they are capable of learning many tricks. Jacks do do well with children if they are socialized with them at a young age. This breed does well in pretty much any climate. Thankfully this breed has a pretty easy coat to take care of so all they need is a weekly brushing to get out any loose hair. In conclusion the Jack Russell Terrier will make a great pet for an experienced dog owner who can take control, and provide a lot of exercise and love for their little buddy.

This post is dedicated to all of my readers.

The Finnish Spitz

The Finnish Spitz is a friendly, energetic, and intelligent dog. These dogs were used in Finland as hunting dogs. These dogs have a loud voice so they let hunters know where the prey was. They didn't actually catch prey. Today this dog is still used for hunting as well as a family pet. These dogs are very friendly towards people, especially kids, which makes them a great family dog. They are also very sociable so they need a lot of handling and attention from their owners. The Spitz is a very independent breed which makes training a bit of a challenge. Patience is the key to training these dogs. These dogs are energetic so a long walk once a day and a little time to play in the yard will suit them. One con about these dogs is that they do shed quite a bit. Regular grooming is needed to maintain this dog's beautiful coat. Another con about these dogs is that they tend to boss their owners around if they aren't taught otherwise. In conclusion the Finnish Spitz is a great family companion that with a firm hand, grooming, and a lot of attention will be a great pet.

This post is dedicated to my best friend Dayna and my penpal who lives in Finland, Susanna.

The English Springer Spaniel

The English Springer Spaniel is a high energy, loving, and intelligent dog. These spaniels, like most, were first bred for hunting. They were named Springer spaniel for their idiosyncratic ability to spring, so that birds would come out of their hiding places. These dogs became popular in America in the 1700s. Hunters were attracted to their hunting skills. Today, Springers are still used for hunting but, they are also used as family pets. Springer's have a sociable,happy, friendly temperament. They love being with people. If not handled enough, these dogs can become destructive. Springers are high energy and they need a lot of exercise. Long, daily walks, with some off leash time, is the best kind of exercise for them. Bench English Spaniels have a long coat that needs to be brushed regularly to prevent matting. Field Springers have a shorter coat that does not need much grooming. As far as training goes, Springers are great. They train very easily. These dogs are great at agility and tricks so training can be very effective. Overall, the English Springer Spaniel is a great dog for families who will give him lots of attention, exercise, training, and most importantly, Love.

This post is dedicated to Teresa.

The Pomeranian

The Pomeranian is a playful, friendly and energetic dog. Originally the Pomeranian was much larger and was used to pull sleds in Pomerania. Later on the dog was bred to a smaller size. This breed became popular after Queen Victoria was given one as a gift. Today, this dog is used as a search and rescue dog, a hearing aid, and a companion. They are easily trained which makes them ideal for agility and show competitions. They shed twice a year and require weekly brushing. These dogs have a great personality. They are friendly and they enjoy attention . They do not mind children but, they need to be associated with them at a young age or, they can become a bit snappy. These dogs have a warm coat so, they will do best in a cold climate. These small dogs do not need very large areas for exercise because they can get their exercise indoors. This is not to say, though, that they do not need to be walked occasionally. These dogs are great for first time dog owners because they are easy to train, lovable, and get along great with families. The only thing you want to do if you do decide to get a Pomeranian is, make it clear to them that you are the boss or else they will walk all over you. Overall, this dog is pretty much great for anyone who can give him proper training and, who doesn't mind a little pet hair.

This post is dedicated to my friend Lexi.

The Siberian Husky

The siberian husky is an intelligent, independant, and compasionate dog. This dog was originally developed to pull sleds in the cold of Siberia. These sleds carried medicines and goods to people all over. The siberian husky was originally bred to live in the extreme cold but, they also do very well in the extreme heat. These dogs make good companions and are good with children. They aren't aggressive towards strangers. As far as training goes they are moderate. Since these dogs are very intelligent, they need to see the reason for obeying commands. Training these dogs takes patience and persistance. Siberian huskies are fastidious when it comes to their coats, so they keep themseleves very clean. Normally these dogs do not have any body odors. The one negative thing about these dogs that you might want to take in to consideration is that they have two times during the year when they shed heavily. In conclusion, the siberian husky is a great companion that with a family who has the time to train him, and who doesn't mind some pet hair during the year, will be an awesome pet.

This post is dedicated to my brother Jaden.