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.