The Magnificent Swedish Elkhound

By Jerry Welsh

Having existed in the 1000s, the Swedish Elkhound is indeed a very old breed. The companion dogs of the Stone Age people are speculated to be the ancestors of this breed. Jamtland, a province in the northwestern part of Sweden is the place of origin of this breed. During the later part of the last Ice Age, the Jamtland people have developed the Swedish Elkhound, a breed of dog with an outstanding stature. Thus, the dog also gained the name Jamthund.

The Swedish Elkhound is a spitz type breed with a wolf-like appearance. The rectangular shaped body is covered with smooth and close lying light to dark coat. Cream and gray marking on the dog's cheeks, muzzle, chest, belly and legs enhances the striking appearance of the thick double coat. The scimitar shaped tail that is tightly curled over the back enhances the dog's striking appearance

As implied by the name, a Swedish Elkhound was developed to be an elk hunter. Strong, courageous and energetic are apt descriptions for the Swedish Elkhound. A Swedish Elkhound was primarily bred to be a working dog. The breeding objective is to create not only a tall and big dog but one that is healthy as well . The dog has to adapt well to the rigors of hunting in heavily forested areas and to be able to scale rocky ledges and traverse deep snow in pursuit of prey. Indeed, the Swedish Elkhound, the breed that was developed is a remarkable hunter of elk, moose, lynx, bear and other game. This breed is also known as Jamthund which means bear hunter in the local dialect.

This is a versatile breed. The Swedish Elkhound is a dog that is first and foremost a hunter but the breed has adapted well to doing other duties. A Jamthund is also a herding dog, a utility dog, a guard dog and a sled dog . This brave and intelligent dog has become an army dog as well and was honored by being chosen as the national dog of the Swedish Marine. The Swedish Elkhound was designated as the official service canine of the Swedish Air Force.

In spite of the bold and aggressive nature shown when hunting, the dog has a stoic behavior. A Swedish Elkhound makes a wonderful companion dog as apart from an affectionate and friendly nature, this dog also has a stable and calm temperament. The affection for the whole family, the tolerance and the gentleness shown to the children are qualities that make a Swedish Elkhound breed an ideal family companion.

About the Author:

Learn more about the Swedish Elkhound's appearance, history, origin, personality and how to care for it at Sarah's Dogs.

How To Start A Pet Grooming Business

By Chloe Gib

There many individuals who have dogs and do a ton to guarantee that they are clean and completely satisfied. It is therefore a nice way to tap the requirement if you do have passion in pet grooming. Nevertheless it is an incredibly tough job to be a trustworthy individual who will be experienced in doing this job. Nevertheless with the following key elements in mind it is fairly easier.

Training and experience in managing animals is essential if you will certainly want to be successful in this entire business. You will certainly get this from very first attending a school where they do instruct the various abilities. You will certainly locate so many accredited organizations in your location either community colleges or regional trade school. Getting some apprenticeship from the different set up business individuals in the field is really crucial for your success.

Second of all pick a place for your business. There are generally a number of options you can make either you can decide to be at home, open a store, lease a booth at a beauty parlor, or you can easily have a mobile one whereby you have a van for that function. Some state do not permit such a business to be set up at home so you should enquire so that you do not locate yourself breaking the law.

One must even have a business plan. This is necessary if you want to get some funding from a lender. Provide a comprehensive plan and ensure that you have the whole entire stock that you need for the job. After this you can now begin the business when you feel you are prepared for the activity.

Make sure you know exactly what you are worth this will be by contrasting different costs that other players in the exact same sector are charging. Have your own set price for the services you are delivering. Additionally recognize how to specialize depending on the capacities you have and exactly what you are most comfortable doing.

If you are new in the market it is extremely apparent that you will certainly be with no customers. So that you make your very own clients start by giving some complimentary services to your next-door neighbors and additionally pals. This is an excellent entry strategy and also an advertising strategy. It will certainly make individuals discuss you services to others and this way they will certainly be doing marketing to you.

Pet grooming is a very rewarding business that one can do as long as they have the passion for handling animals then they will certainly have their profession constructed.

About the Author:

Paw Spa Pet Salon is a top provider of pet grooming. Contact them today for more information! (http://www.thepawspaandpetsalon.com)

What is the best age to neuter a dog

By Jerry Welsh

Dogs owners find it difficult to decide whether to have the dog neutered or not. Neutering is often the option of responsible dog owners that are aware of the tragic plight of stray dogs - of the animals considered as man's best friends that have to be put to sleep for being homeless. It is the owner's responsibility to make sure that the pet would not contribute to the population of stray dogs.

To neuter a dog, a small incision is made on the skin to remove the testicles to prevent it from reproducing. Would you believe that hte procedure aside from minimizing the number of homeless canines also promises to give it a longer, healthier and happier life. Healthier - because a neutered dog will not be open to the risk of testicle cancer. The hormone level of a castrated dog is controlled thus bad behavior that is associated with mood swings will be controlled as well. Castration decreases the male's inclination to roam thus the possibility of accidents that can snuff the life of the pet will be lessened.

However, owners have many reservations on the right time to neuter the dog . Neutering has many unfounded beliefs. Neutering done at an early age is believed to have a significant impact on the personality and physical growth of the pet.

Dogs are affectionate and playful by nature but if it is castrated before it has reached sexual maturity, the procedure will have a negative impact on the admirable qualities that make them such wonderful companions. Experts refute the veracity of these beliefs. The personality and the physical development of the dog will not be affected at all. So what is the right age to neuter the pet?

Except for newborn puppies, dogs can be neutered anytime. A pet owner would learn from the breeder the age of the dog but if the pet was obtained from a shelter considering the right age for neutering would not be possible. A dog is never too old for neutering but experts tell us that the ideal age will be before the dog reaches sexual maturity as long as the testicles has fully descended. A Shih Tzu or any other toy breeds can be neutered at six months as these breed gain sexual maturity early. Large breeds take longer to attain maturity thus German Shepherds, Great Danes and other large breeds can be neutered at about 1 year of age.

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Learn more about at what age dogs can be neutered at Sarah's Dogs.

Tips to Use When Choosing a Pet Hospital

By Chloe Gib

Choosing a pet hospital can be a frustrating task, but there are a few steps that you can take to minimize the hassles of your search. Finding Harleysville veterinary services can be as easy as pie if you take your time and get organized. Choosing the perfect vet services is a lot like choosing a doctor for an infant. While you are on your quest, be on the look-out for a few details and characteristics.

When you take your trip to the vet, make sure that your pet is on a leash or in a carrier. Several vet facilities have asked that all pets remain with their owner at all times. Your pet will not be able to roam around freely, so make sure that you have one of these accessories present.

Asking for recommendations may be the best thing to do in this instance. You can ask your church members and others if they have any recommendations for a good vet. You can also ask friends, co-workers and family members who they suggest. If you can't seem to find the perfect facility, you can use the internet to find the right veterinary services for you.

When you visit, be sure to check for the key important facts. These key details should include cleanliness and a relaxed atmosphere. In this event, a relaxed atmosphere is great to have, but it should be professional and friendly as well. When you are inspecting the place, make sure that you inspect the staff members as well.

Most people spend a lot of their time observing staff members. In this event, take notice to how the staff members act. They should be professional and neatly dressed. They should also have a strong knowledge of their job and should be able to answer questions on several different topics. In this instance, manners are another detail to look for.

Customer service stands out about the rest. In this instance, the staff members are very important. Here, you should be observing the relationships between the staff members and the customers. The staff of any facility should be ready and willing to assist customers and be ready to answer questions.

One important factor that should be taken into consideration is to find out as much information about the facility as possible. Make a not if the place is a member of a professional organization or affiliated with any humane societies in your area. Some pet hospital facilities provide emergency clinic services and referrals for those in need.

About the Author:

Dr. Pet Fixer offers great prices on vet services. Check out their website to learn more! (http://www.drpetfixer.com)

Red and Black German Shepherd Puppies: Is This the Puppy for You

By Chloe Gib

Red and black German Shepherd puppies grow into large, energetic dogs. If bored they become quite destructive. They require daily exercise, mental stimulation, and companionship. Before adopting a German Shepherd, make sure you have time for walks or runs, water play, and games like Frisbee and fetch.

Working dogs bred to herd and to guard sheep, today they're show dogs, family pets, military and police dogs, search and rescue canines. They're prized for their strength, intelligence, courage, and loyalty. Wary of strangers, they're gentle with children they know. Socialization and obedience training are a necessity to ensure their guarding instinct doesn't turn into aggression.

Proper nutrition is important for large dogs to develop strong bones. During the first 2 years they feed with 25% protein. Excess weight puts stress on developing bones. Any food a puppy doesn't eat in 20 minutes should be picked up. For six months feed 3 times a day, then reduce to 2 feedings a day.

Find a breeder you trust before visiting with any adorable must have puppies. Attend a show or contact a kennel club to get referrals. Obedience trainers, veterinarians, and groomers may also have referrals. Find a breeder who's knowledgeable about the breed and its health issues. Ask what tests have been done to find health problems, and what guarantee is provided. Most will take back any dog at any age if the owner can no longer care for their pet.

Visit with the parent dogs. They should be healthy and display a stable temperament. Check their registration papers. Meet and play with the litter. The breeder can help you pick a puppy with the best temperament for your family. Ask if the litter has been dewormed, and what shots they've had.

A good breeder will have socialized the pups with exposure to different sights, sounds, and people. Continue socialization and add obedience work to train your puppy in the way he should go. Make sure your puppy meets lots of people in different settings. Take him on car rides to new places with new sights, sounds, and smells.

Expect the breeder to ask you questions. They want to place their puppies in a forever home. Expect questions about your understanding of the breed, make-up of your household including other pets, living space available, plans for obedience training and exercise.

Red and black German shepherd puppies are produced in several different bloodlines bred for different purposes. Long hair on show dogs is acceptable in Europe. The American Kennel Club considers it a disqualifying fault. Many breeders in America disagree and purposely breed German Shepherd long coat puppies. Some have the traditional double coat. A "true" long hair lacks the undercoat for a smooth and silky look.

About the Author:

Oak Glen Kennels offers great prices on long coat German Shepherd breeders. Check out their website to learn more! (http://www.oakglenkennels.com/)

The Intense Advantages Of Discovering Cheap Cat Products

By Robert Baker

If you ask somebody who is the man's best friend, you will most likely get the dog as an answer. Of course the dog is one of the most favorite pets in the world and many would agree with that answer. There are people who would disagree as there are different animals and not everyone likes dogs, something that is made evident by the availability of a wide range of cheap cat products on the market.

Having dental care for your feline is very important. Teeth are the best weapon the animal has and they use them to eat and protect themselves. You will certainly need to have an oral spray for your pet, too.

The spray will help to reduce the tartar and plaque levels in their mouths. This sprays re amazing and you will be able to notice really good results just after a month of using them. Beside plaque, the spray will help with the fresh breath of your pet and to protect its gums.

If your pet has a nice, soft bed, you will notice that it is its most favorite place. Your animal will be able to snuggle and spend days lazing about, when you are not at home to play with. This kind of bed is washable.

It is a good thing because it may start to smell after certain amount of time. It is also very warm which, will guarantee that your pet will be always warm in the cold winter days. The price can vary anywhere between a few and a few hundred dollars.

Some of the goods for cats are life savers and you need to always have them at your home. If you are not aware of what exactly you may need, it will be a good idea to speak with your vet and follow his suggestions. Besides the usual vet suggestions, which will keep your animal healthy and clean, you may need some toys as well, which is why it's great that it is so easy to find cheap cat products.

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Get tips for choosing the right cheap cat condos and more information about a reputable supplier of best cat furniture, right now.

Reasons why a dog scoot

By Jerry Welsh

Dog owners would have been exposed to the weird behavior of the pet. It is not uncommon for pet owners to observe the pet turning around in circles, sleeping with the four legs up like an upended table and chasing the tail. Scooting is one of the bizarre behaviors of dogs. To scoot, a dog would propel its body forward using the front legs while dragging the butt against the floor, the carpet or the grass.

The family will certainly be entertained by the dog's comic act of cocking the head and turning around in circles. No matter how entertaining the dog is, the family would tire of watching the pet. An owner can't help but think that something must be wrong with the pet.

Scooting can be attributed to boredom. Dogs that don't get enough attention from the family will either be destructive or will do something to gain the family's attention. By dragging its butt the dog can get the attention of the family and would bask in the clapping and shouts of encouragement. The dog excited with the clapping and the laughter of the family will be enticed to do the act over and over again.

Dragging the butt though may not be for the benefit of the family. An itchy butt or an uncomfortable feeling may cause a dog to scoot. Due top the dog's propensity to ingest anything, strings, plastic or cloth that gets stuck in the rectum can give the dog an uncomfortable feeling. The hair on the anal area especially on long haired breeds can have clinging dried up feces. A dog will rub its rear end against the ground in an effort to remove foreign objects from its butt.

Worm infestation and anal gland disorders are possible reasons why the dog would drag its butt on the floor. A tapeworm infestation will make the dog scoot as the segments of worm on the anal are will cause severe itching. An impacted or abscessed anal gland is another reason why dogs would scoot. Anal gland secretions give the dog its distinct odor. Nature has designed the draining of the anal gland secretion to be done when the dog defecates however because of low quality food, dogs commonly have soft stools. Soft stools would result to impacted anal gland. A dog with an impacted anal gland will be weighed down with pain and discomfort thus it would scoot.

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Want to know more about why dogs scoot as well as dog first aid. Visit Sarah's Dogs.