The 15 Most Dangerous Dogs

What do you think is the most dangerous dog? A pit-bull, right? Nope, wrong. Surely then it must be a Rottweiler, a German-Shepherd, or maybe even a Chow-Chow. Again, nope, no-way, and incorrect. The correct answer is... a Dachshund. Yes, you read that correctly. Dachshunds are the most dangerous type of dogs. Researchers from the University of Pennsylvania recently surveyed 6,000 dog owners and found that "one in five dachshunds have bitten or tried to bite strangers, and a similar number have attacked other dogs; one in 12 have snapped at their owners."

So, surely the number 2 dog on the list must be a pit bull, right? Wrong! It appears that Napoleon Syndrome is real because the number 2 dog is a Chihuahua. Chihuahuas have similar statistics to dachshunds when it comes to biting strangers, their owners, or other dogs. Completing the top 3 list is the Jack Russell Terrier. So, why is that we assume pit bulls, Rottweilers, and Chow Chows are the most dangerous dogs?

The answer is actually quite simple. It's because most clinical studies on this subject use medical data as the basis for their research. Since big dogs create bigger wounds they're reported more frequently and this causes the medical data to be skewed inaccurately toward big dogs. Truthfully, all breeds can be provoked to bite. Whether or not a dog actually bites is generally a result of how well it's been trained and treated. So, the question really is what dog breeds are genetically predisposed to aggressiveness? Here's a list, in no particular order, of the 15 most dangerous dogs.

1. Giant Schnauzer - Similar to German Shepherds, the Giant Schnauzer was trained in Germany to assist soldiers. This dangerous dog possesses the size of a Great Dane with the intelligence of a Schnauzer. These qualities in addition to his natural tendency to be fiercely loyal make this a dog of which to be aware. Stranger anxiety in the Giant Schnauzer is more common than other dogs.

2. Akita Inu - The Akita Inu is a heavy boned, powerful, and alert dog. He possesses a dignified and courageous persona and has a tendency to be aggressive toward other dogs.

3. Chow Chow - According the American Kennel Club, "... the Chow is reserved and discerning with strangers. Their cat-like personalities make them independent, stubborn and less eager to please than other breeds. They require early socialization and training, and some kind of exercise daily.

4. Bullmastiff - The Bullmastiff is fearless and confident. They were originally bred to guard natural game preserves from poachers as such they are natural guardians of the home, but do not bark much, as silence was a virtue when guarding the preserves. Bullmastiffs are independent thinkers and may not respond to traditional obedience training.

5. Papillion - The Papillion, is very small and very loyal to its family. It can be weary of strangers and though they are generally sweet tempered they need to be watched carefully around non-family members or other dogs visiting their home.

6. Old English Sheepdog - Old English Sheepdogs (OES) are athletic and energetic and require lots of exercise. The OES was bred to herd sheep. He has retained his natural tendency to herd whether or not there are sheep and accordingly he may try to herd people or other objects. He is generally a loving, sweet animal but may become aggressive if he feels someone or something is interfering with his herding job.

7. Dachshund - The Dachshund, meaning "badger dog" in German, was bred to dig into holes, hunt for, and fight to the death with badgers. Dachshunds tend to be territorial and in order to make the integration into family life as smooth and happy as possible he requires consistent assertion from his owners throughout his lifetime.

8. Llasa Apso - Llasos were bred for hundreds of years as indoor watchdogs. They are naturally suspicious of strangers. Additionally, the dog possesses an aloof and independent personality - it requires consistent handling throughout it's life and requires daily walks or exercise. Llaso's are best for adult only families.

9. Miniature Pinscher - Miniature Pinschers are fearless, animated, and independent creatures. They are spirited, and require consistent reminders about who the true alpha dog is in the family.

10. Jack Russell Terrier (officially known as Parson Russell Terriers) - These little dogs are bright and very energetic. They require lots of exercise and are better in families with older children as they do not tolerate rough handling from small children.

11. Pit Bull - What is commonly known as the pit bull is officially known in England as the Staffordshire Bull-Terrier and in the United States it's known as the American Staffordshire-Terrier. Whatever you call it, this dog is actually very people-oriented and is happiest when he is made part of the family and given a job to do. He is generally very friendly but is loyal to a fault to his family and will protect them from any threat.

12. Rottweiler - Rottweilers love their people and are protective of their territory. They do not welcome strangers until properly introduced. Obedience training and socialization are musts.

13. German Shepherd - The German Shepherd is a renowned guard and military dog. It is also a loving family companion. The breed is direct and fearless, with a strong, muscular body. He is a great family dog and is only on the most dangerous list because he can be trained to be aggressive (as can most dogs)

14. Dalmatian - The Dalmatian is the only horse "coaching" dog in the world and he has retained a natural affinity for horses. Dalmatians are very energetic and require daily long walks or romps in a fenced yard. Without regular exercise he can become destructive.

15. Chihuahua - Swift moving and terrier-like in behavior, Chihuahuas are highly intelligent and should not be underestimated even though small in size. They do not tolerate the rough handling that comes with young children so they are best for families with older or no kids.

Remember, all dogs can be provoked and all dogs, given the proper training, can be well mannered animals. Whatever breed you decide to add to your family it is important to socialize your pet with other animals and people as soon as possible. Also, consistent routines, affirmation, and discipline will make your new dog a happy member of the family.

Organic and Natural Pet Food - Prevention is the Best Medicine

An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure - we have all heard this phrase during our lives many times. Nothing could be truer when it comes to our pets. Unfortunately, many dog owners have accepted common abnormalities as normal. By learning to care for our dogs before they become ill, using natural and holistic approaches, we can avoid the common disorders that are becoming more prevalent in dogs today. Starting your puppy with a natural and organic food diet is an excellent start for long and healthy life.

Every single part of your dog's body works together interdependently. If one part isn't working well it can affect the total body, mind and attitude of your dog. By understanding how your dog's entire body works together you can begin to understand how to help your dog's overall health. When we think of health we actually are thinking of a lack of health rather than a complete state of wellness. The following is description of the working parts of your dog and what should be considered normal.

Skin and Coat There are many types of breeds of dogs having many different coats; some breeds have short coats, long coats, coats that shed and coats that do not shed. These differences dictate the amount of grooming needed to sustain good health in your dog. Regardless of the type of coat your dog has, it should be clean, dry, glossy, soft or wiry depending on then breed's normal coat. It should be without dandruff or oiliness. Your dog should shed all year long but even more so in the summer (excessive hair loss is never normal). Also make sure your dog's coat does not emit a strong odor. Depending on your dog's breed, the skin should be pink, black or spotted. Flakiness, redness, lumps or bumps on your dog's skin is not normal and should be looked at by you veterinarian.

Teeth, Gums, and Mouth Your puppy will typically lose its baby teeth by six months of age. The normal puppy has twenty-eight teeth between the upper and lower jaws. The normal adult dog will have forty-two teeth between the upper and lower jaws. Your dog's teeth should be white and straight, and his breath should not possess an unusually bad odor. In general, your dog's tongue and gums should be light pink. There are some breeds where this is not the case such as the Chow Chow or Dalmatian but normally speaking if your dog has a discolored tongue or gums he may have a periodontal disease. Your dog's jaws should be well aligned. An excessive under-bite or over-bite can lead to eating problems which will eventually lead to many other health problems.

Ears Dog's ears come in many shapes and sizes but regardless of your dog's ear shape and size, the ear canals should be pink and clean of any discharge or odor. Dogs with floppy ears tend to get more ear infections than those with erect ears because their canals can not breathe as freely. Dogs that swim more frequently also experience more ear infections. If your dog is shaking his head frequently, scratching his ears or forehead or is rubbing his ears on furniture or other objects are signs of illness and should be checked out by your veterinarian.

Eyes Your dog should look alert and focused. He should not have excessive tear production or mucus discharge coming from his eyes. Seeing these conditions suggests your dog has some type of aliment and should not be ignored. Too many dog owners write these types of signs off as normal which is not a good practice.

Nose Your dog's nose should be moist and clean. There should be no discharge except for a clear discharge, anything else is not normal. If your dog's nose is cracked, changes color or gets erosions you should have your dog checked by your veterinarian. Sometimes a simple change in diet can correct these types of problems.

Weight Your dog is going to be healthiest and happiest when his weight is within a normal range. You should be able to feel a thin layer of fat between the rib cage and the outside of the dog's body and you should be able to feel a natural indentation just beyond the rib cage. Your dog's ribs should not be visibly noticeable nor should there be excessive fat covering the rib cage. An over-weight dog is one of the most common causes for back and hip problems. It will also contribute to other diseases as your dog ages such as diabetes. Being at a healthy weight will also contribute to a higher level of energy which will also add to the overall health and wellness of your dog.

A healthy dog is outgoing, friendly, and generally happier. Some breeds will have more distinct personalities than others but in general a healthy dog is a happy dog. Whatever the predominant personality trait is for your dog, a healthy dog will display a more positive behavior pattern for that particular trait. As a dog owner, getting in the habit of a proper diet and exercise pattern starting at the puppy stage is the best way to stay on a healthy tract. Using natural and organic pet supplies is the best choice since the proper care has been taken in producing these products and generally is accepted by most veterinarians.

In closing, the top seven reasons to use natural and organic pet supplies are:

Immunity, your dog will be less likely to get sick
Your dog will smell and look better
A healthy dog is a happy and more energetic dog
A healthy dog spends less time at the vet saving you money and time
Less yard waste, your dog's stool are smaller when using an organic diet
Your dog will be easier to train and will be friendlier
Longevity, you will be able to enjoy and love your dog longer

Runescape Summoning Pets

The long awaited 'summoning' skill has finally been released to the Runescape world. With the new skill comes alot of new familiars to summon and pets to take care of. Unlike the familiars which need to be created with pouches and ingredients at an obelisk, pets are obtained in different ways.

Some pets can be purchased directly from one of the pet shops in Runescape. There are six types of dogs available in the pet shops. You can buy a Bulldog, Dalmatian, Greyhound, Labrador, Sheepdog or a Terrier. These all require only level 1 summoning and all need you to feed them raw meat.

Other Animals can be raised from eggs. There are seven types of animals that can be raised from eggs. Eggs found in birds nests include: Raven, Guthix raptor, Saradomin owl, Zamorak hawk. You can obtain a Penguin egg from the Ardougne Zoo, Vulture eggs are found as a drop from Vultures and A dragon egg can be found as a drop from a dragon. Chameleon eggs can be found on Cairn Isle. If you have an egg then you need to have it incubated at a pet shop.

A Gecko, Squirrel, Raccoon and a monkey can all be caught by using your hunter skill. Giant crabs can be purchased from mogres.

Some information about pets:

You can put your pets in your inventory or take them out at any time.

Each pet has different needs. Care for them or they will run away.

Some pets take a long time to grow up.

You can only have one type of pet at one time.

You can only have one follower out at a time.

The Guthix raptor, Saradomin owl and Zamorak hawk all have three stages of growth: chick, bird and raptor/owl/hawk.

Grooming Your Collie Dog

Collies come in two different varieties, "smooth" and "rough." Rough collies require much more grooming, but smoothes do need to be groomed regularly to keep their coats healthy. Collies have a double coat of hair, meaning there is a thick undercoat and an outer coat of thinner and flatter hair.

A smooth collie has shorter hair like that of a Labrador or Dalmatian. The hair is short and smooth with a thick undercoat. Rough collies have a long and flowing topcoat and a dense undercoat. You can keep your collie looking good, no matter what the variety, with regular brushing.

You'll need a pin brush, a slicker brush, a comb, scissors and a spray bottle filled with a conditioner spray. You can buy a commercial conditioner spray, or make your own using 1 to 2 tablespoons of dog conditioner diluted with water. Make sure it is diluted well or the spray will make your Collie's coat greasy.

Make sure to spray your dog's hair thoroughly before you start to brush. Never brush a Collie's coat dry because it will break their hair. If you have a rough collie, part the dog's hair and brush from the roots out. The pin brush can be used if your dog is not shedding and is free of matting.

The slicker brush and comb are helpful for shedding dogs and for removing mats. If a mat cannot be brushed out of the Collie's hair, you can cut it out. Collies most often have matted hair behind their ears, underneath the front legs and on their underbelly so make sure to check those areas carefully. For a smooth collie, a slicker brush will suffice for both the undercoat and outer coat.

You should brush your collie everyday during shedding seasons, and at least once a week when they are not shedding. Regular brushing is important to remove the dead hair. If left alone, the dead hair will cause hot spots on your dog's skin.

Collies generally do not require all over trimming, but you might want to keep their feet trimmed. With a small pair of scissors, carefully trim the hair around each footpad.

This will keep your collie's feet clean. While you are working with your collie's feet, you can also trim the nails. This should be done every 1 to 2 weeks to keep the nails from getting too long.

If your collie is a puppy, you can train them to be used to a Dremel tool with a sandpaper attachment. Apply light pressure with the Dremel and grind down to just before the pink quick.

The alternative to using the Dremel is to use a standard dog nail trimmer. Before you clip the dog's nails, find the pink quick and cut just before that point. Cutting into the quick will make the dog's nail bleed. If this happens, styptic powder is helpful to have on hand to stop the bleeding.

Finally, remember to clean your Collie's ears about once a week. You can purchase a canine ear cleaner at any pet store. Squirt the ear cleaner into your dog's ear canal and then rub the base of the ear. This will help the ear cleaner coat the inside of the ear canal. You can use a cotton ball to remove the excess cleaner and then allow the ear canal to dry naturally.

Bluey - Oldest Australian Cattle Dog on Record

The oldest dog on record was an Australian Cattle Dog named Bluey.

Bluey lived to be almost 30 years old. That figure is in human years.

Dogs mature more rapidly than humans.

According to dog age experts, a one-year-old dog is really about age 15

in human equivalent years. The average life expectancy of The Australian

Cattle Dog is about 12-15 years.

Bluey was exceptional in that he outlived all the online life expectancy calculations. It may have been his diet or his genetics. The life expectancy of dogs increase dramatically because of better diets, better health care, and better living conditions.

Bluey was put to sleep on November 14, 1939 at the age of 29 years, 5 months.

The official AKC breed name for Bluey is "Australian Cattle Dog". Sometimes these

dogs are called "heelers" because they were developed in Australia for controlling

cattle. The dogs were trained to herd cattle by nipping and biting at their heels.

Ancestors:

Bluey's ancestors are Collies, Dalmatians, and the native Australian Dingo.

Bluey was heavier and more muscular than his ancestor the Border Collie.

The ACD have been working on Australian ranches since early in this century.

Bred to withstand extreme temperatures and the resourcefulness to forage to

feed itself like a wild dog made the ACD a very independent pet.

Physical Characteristics:

The coat is smooth with a double coat that it is resistant to the

elements. The breed sheds constantly and requires regular brushing.

Bluey and his breed are:

Sturdy and compact herding dogs

Well-developed muscles

Powerful, strong and agile

Size & Height:

The breed is medium in size
Weighs around 32-35 pounds

Height of 17-20 inches.

Personality:

Bluey and his breed are very good with the family children. This breed has a natural

protective instinct. They are very loyal dogs and are easy to train. These dogs need

to attend dog obedience classes. As a result of their dog obedience classes, they

will be absolutely obedient companions.

The ACD tends to show some aggressive tendencies toward noisy and strange

children that tend to tease the animal. These dogs will nip at the heels of people

and children because of their inherent "heeler" traits. They may be suspicious

of individuals as well as other dogs.

This breed needs regular exercise. A daily walk will keep the dog satisfied. This breed is

very easy to train. The dog wants to stay busy so engage the dog in stimulating

activities like "fetch" or the frisbee.

Give the Australian Cattle Dog a toy and he will play with the toy until the toy is totally destroyed. They will run and fetch sticks, balls and even cans. The breed is fun and playful and make excellent companions for children.

Physical Accommodations:


Requires a large open yard.

Barks at any change in environment

Needs attention.



When an Australian Cattle Dog is bored they tend to become destructive.

The dog will destroy any object left in his area. The ACD is a very

active dog and wants to run and jump in open areas.

Health Problems:

Genetic health problems may include the following:


Deafness

Progressive retinal atrophy (causes blindness)

Hip dysplasia,

Temperament abnormalities.

Deficit of attention disorders

Few ACD owners complain of loneliness or lack of companionship with this breed.

The ACD wants love and attention and will give these back ten fold. Bluey is no

longer with us but the ACD breed , Australian Cattle Dog is one of the most popular dogs in the United States and in the UK.

Two Hearts Rescued

Penny, Keno, Fritz, Bearlington Barron, Ashes in the Wind and last but not least, Abby, are Dalmatians that were lucky enough to have Laverne care for them. Dalmatians had been a part of Laverne's life for over 50 years. Abby passed away in February of 2006 leaving Laverne feeling sad and lonely. She really wanted to love another Dalmatian, but realized that might be a challenge with her age. Laverne was very cautious and took her time thinking everything through. With encouragement from her friends she decided to look for an older Dalmatian. Her friends stepped in with that effort and one thing lead to another to bring her in contact with Save Our Spots Dalmatian Rescue. Five year old Suzie met Laverne and wiggled her way into Laverne's heart within minutes.

Not hesitating one moment, Laverne prepared her home by placing a doggie bed in the living room, dining room and bedroom. She bought dog food and treats and set out water and kibble dishes. Dog toys were abundant for Suzie as she arrived to Laverne's home in early October. Suzie helped Laverne feel alive again.

Laverne is a perfect example of the positive effect a dog can have on your life. She is 80 years young, and a gracious, big-hearted lady who knows how good it feels to be needed and loved. As she awakes each morning, she glances at the closet mirror opposite her bed. The reflection looking back at her gives her purpose to rise for the day. That purpose, Suzie, wags her tail and smiles only as a dog can do.

Pets can provide love and many other benefits to the elderly. Studies are expanding our knowledge by leaps and bounds on this subject. The following are some of the benefits an animal can provide to a senior:

o Dogs are therapeutic and can help alleviate against everyday stress.

o Seniors that have dogs tend to go to the doctor less.

o Cholesterol levels can be lower when an animal is part of a senior's life.

o Seniors with pets have high optimism and better psychological well-being.

o Animals help to promote social interaction and decrease isolation and loneliness.

o Pets are experts at encouraging laughter, playfulness and exercise.

o The need for touch, warmth and affection is satisfied with a pet.

It really is simple. We all want to be needed and loved. These feelings are especially true for the elderly. Laverne takes great delight in caring for Suzie. She visits the local senior center often and has gotten the go-ahead to bring Suzie in for a visit. Not only is Suzie providing love for Laverne, but she will also share her love with Laverne's friend who is in the nursing home. One dog can provide so much affection and warmth. It is hard to put that feeling into words, as it can only be felt with the heart.

Visiting with Laverne and Suzie this past December is an experience that will stay with me always. The special bond between them is what being loved and needed is all about. Suzie lay at Laverne's feet as we talked, snoring to the rhythm of our conversation. As Laverne got up to show me around her home, Suzie did not miss a beat, and followed lovingly beside us. Laverne shared with me the story of how Suzie brings her shoe to her each morning and places it next to her bed. It is Suzie's way of saying it is time to get up and moving for the day. As Laverne sits on the edge of the bed, Suzie walks over to her and places her head adoringly on her knee. To witness such a sweet act is to know without a doubt that two hearts were rescued.

Dog shelter - Top 10 Reasons Pooches End Up in The Dog House

The sad facts are, each and every year people just throw their dogs away like last seasons fashions. We see hundreds of thousands of dogs arrive at animal rescue shelters, because their owners are no longer able or prepared to take the necessary steps to take care of them.

Statistics say that approximately 25 percent are unwanted presents, another 25 percent have behavioral problems and the rest are given up for domestic or other reasons.

Here's the top 10 reasons why pooches end up in the dog house.

1. The breed was that year's MUST HAVE accessory, a little bit of Paris Hilton syndrome or the 101 Dalmatians fad.

2. I just couldn't resist him in the shop window, so little, cute and fluffy - but he didn't stay that way for long.

3. Due to lack of training, the dog became aggressive, destructive and totally uncontrollable.

4. Dog was purchased on impulse. Buy first think later, usually being pressured by children then realizing the level of COMMITMENT required.

5. The dog was left alone for long periods consequently barking and upsetting the neighbors and becoming aggressive, destructive and uncontrollable.

6. Old age and no longer being able to physically cope with the demands of dog ownership.

7. Let's face it owning a dog is not cheap nowadays - feeding, veterinary treatments, worming, boarding cost when your on holidays can really stretch the purse strings.

8. Separations of couples and no one wants the dog.

9. When young families have a new arrival and the responsibility and expense become too much.

10. Owners move to a new apartment with a no pet rule.

In all fairness there are valid reasons that people have when having to part with their dogs but the trend that seems to be shining through is that people have to realize when purchasing a dog is a responsibility thats on going. Its not like buying lip gloss, if you don't like it you can change it or throw it away. Remember dogs can make great companions and life time friends and like any friend you should take good care of them.

All the best from the family at Phoopups and keep those tails wagging.