Decorative Disaster For Chihuauas

	Decorative Disaster
	Is your dog attracted to shiny decorations? Nip the habit early or your pup may get more than he bargained for. Holiday ornaments made of metal or glass and decorations on strings or electric cords can be dangerous -- even fatal -- if chewed on or swallowed. At best, you'll have an unhappy dog with a stomachache. Protect your dog by keeping all holiday trimmings out of reach and making decorated rooms off-limits or opting for more pup-friendly adornments.

Holiday Time for your Chihuahua

It’s that time of year again… holiday open-houses, family dinners, catching up with friends. Is it okay to include your four-legged family member in the celebrations? In this issue, we’ll look at some of the issues that come with bringing your pooch to the party.

Then, holiday handouts. You know you shouldn’t give your dog table scraps, but find out why holiday foods can pose a particular problem to your dog.

Next, are you looking to spend some quality time with your dog this winter? Teach him a few new tricks? In "5 Cool Classes for Canines", you’ll read about some of the more interesting, lesser known obedience schools.

And, as usual, Dr. Kate is in the house. This time, she’ll discuss which winter plants are toxic for dogs.

Is Your Chihuahua Begging for Trouble

	Is Your Chihuahua Begging for Trouble
	Does your doggy always want a taste of whatever you're eating? Save her from tummy aches by ignoring her begging. Certain people foods can spell trouble for your pet, from indigestion to poisoning. Make sure she sticks to her normal diet during this season of festive foods, and remind guests not to feed her scraps from the table. Store any leftovers and garbage where your dog cannot get to them. And if you can't resist the sad eyes and whimpering, safely satisfy your pup's cravings with specially formulated dog treats.

Chihuahua Boarding School Tricks

Chihuahua Boarding School Tricks Going out of town but can't take your dog with you? Do a little homework before picking a place to board your pup. First, ask other pet owners for recommendations. Next, visit kennels and doggy motels and take a tour, keeping three things in mind: hygiene, safety, and exercise. Does it look and smell clean? A well-run facility should be cleaned regularly and have a good ventilation system. Is proof of current vaccinations required? And is there an adequate space for dogs to run and play that is protected and secure? Keep these questions in mind when making your decision.

Chihuahua's Old Dog Tricks

Old Dog Tricks

Want your dog to enjoy her senior years? A little extra TLC will help keep her tail wagging. Keeping a close eye on her waistline and her habits is key. Talk with your vet if you notice any changes in your dog's appearance or in her eating, sleeping, potty, or playtime habits. Carrying extra weight puts an unhealthy strain on older dogs, so it's important to make sure the calories your pet eats and those she burns are balanced. Your vet may recommend switching to a specially formulated food for senior dogs as metabolism decreases with age.

Chihuahuas; With or Without You

With or Without You

Does your dog get destructive when you're gone all day? It might be separation anxiety that's fueling her behaviors. Try these steps. Spend 20 minutes every day ignoring your dog so alone time won't feel so strange. Also, while you are still at home try isolating her for a few minutes each day in her safe zone, be it a crate or a room she hangs out in when you're gone. Start with just a few minutes, but you can work up to an hour or two until she's comfortable being there by herself. When you do leave, give her plenty to do -- chew toys, treat puzzles, and other diversions. Upon your return, don't make a big deal of it. Just go about your business for a few minutes and say hello when your dog is calmer.

Zoonotic diseases of concern to Chihuahua pet owners.

Zoonotic diseases of concern to Chihuahua owners.

 

Cat scratch disease -- Also known as “cat scratch fever,” this flea-borne infection is typically transmitted from a cat’s scratch or bite. Signs include pimples at the scratch site and swollen lymph nodes that may persist for six weeks or longer.

Ehrlichiosis – Transmitted by ticks, this bacterial disease can cause fever, muscle aches, vomiting and other, more serious symptoms. As many as half of all patients require hospitalization.

Giardia – People and pets are infected when they drink water containing the parasite Giardia Iamblia. You can also become infected by putting something in your mouth that has come into contact with a pet’s stool. Signs include diarrhea, stomach cramps and nausea.

Leptospirosis – “Lepto” is a bacterial disease spread by contact with urine from an infected animal, including dogs, raccoons, squirrels and skunks. Lepto can cause high fever, severe headache, vomiting and, if left untreated, kidney damage or liver failure.

Lyme disease -- Spread by ticks, Lyme disease can cause arthritis and kidney damage in both people and dogs. The number of Lyme disease cases has nearly tripled since 1990, and the disease is now found in every state.

Rabies -- This well-known disease is caused by a virus found in the saliva of infected animals and transmitted to pets and people by bites. It is invariably fatal if not promptly treated.

Ringworm -- Ringworm is a fungal infection -- not a worm -- transmitted by contact with the skin or fur of an infected dog or cat. Signs include a bald patch of scaly skin on the scalp, or a ring-shaped, itchy rash on the skin. Rocky Mountain spotted fever -- A very serious, tick-borne disease that causes fever, headache, muscle pain, followed by a rash. May be fatal if left untreated.

Toxoplasmosis -- This is a parasitic disease spread by contact with cat feces in soil or litter, although the major route to transmission is contaminated meat. It can cause serious health problems in pregnant women or in people with compromised immune systems.

Naming your Chihuahua; does it really matter?

Does it really matter?

What's in a name?

Turns out, that yes, it does. There's both a science and an art to dog naming. The name you give your dog has repercussions for you and your dog - it has an impact on training, perception, behavior, and more.

Let's have a look at just some of the implications of canine naming choices:

• Role & age appropriateness: Bunny may not be a suitable name for a five-year-old German Shepherd who is meant to be a companion and help guard your home. Because consciously or not, the name means something to the way you treat her, and the way she receives your commands.

  If Bunny's behaving like a baby and occasionally urinating in the house, her name just may have something to do with how effective your training is. Try to match up the name to your dog's (eventual) age and role in the family.

  TIP: Give your dog a name he can grow into, eventually fitting his role and life stage.

• Names invoke emotions: Emotions influence behavior. So when you name your big Bouvier Bruiser, don't be surprised if people back away from both of you in the dog park.

  We repeat our dog's names often, and this repetition will have an effect, especially unconsciously - whether it's good or bad.

  TIP: Try for a good effect when naming. Attempt to invoke pleasant emotions. For example, Buddy can be a good choice, for obvious reasons…while Killer may not be.

• Sound effects: There are more direct effects a name can have on your dog, particularly in regards to training. The structure of sound can play a large role. Hard consonants like D, K, and P crackle with energy across many frequencies.

  Names, especially short one-syllable names with these letters (and sounds) are great for getting your dog's attention; far better than softer vowels and their accompanying softer sounds. In fact, this is why clickers work so well in training.

  TIP: Dirk or Kip will serve you and your dog better when training, when compared with Missy or Sam. Any dog can be conditioned to any name, certainly, but if you plan to have your dog compete in performance events, for example, this may give you a "leg up."

• One syllable or two? While one-syllable names with hard consonants are great, there's much to be said for two-syllable names. It's almost as if the first syllable alerts your dog to the second, which can be very effective.

  Two-syllable names also make for more iterations of your dog's name. You can get an affectionate nickname, a training name, and a stern name out of most two-syllable names. Very versatile, indeed!

  TIP: Try the above with a name that's under consideration. We'll try Pepper. We have our training name (Pepper or Pep), a nickname (Pep-Pep, Peppy), and a "grab-her-attention-now" name (Pep-per!).

A rose by any other name…

By the way, you can change your dog's name. Unlike humans, dogs don't become emotionally attached to names the way we do. If you don't like the name your dog came with, change it. It happens all the time, after all, when you adopt from a shelter.

In the end, many factors come into play when naming. But ultimately a name you love, one that makes you smile and feel good (like your dog makes you feel), a name that really sums up your dog's personality - well, that's preferable to an "acoustically-correct" name any day.

That takes care of the science. But, finding an exquisite name you adore? That's where the art comes in.

In Case of Emergency

In Case of Emergency

If you are ever driven from your home during an emergency -- be it a flood, a fire, or gale force winds -- be prepared with a Fido-friendly plan.

Don't rely on shelters to accept your furry companion -- most only allow service dogs. Have another option at the ready. Ask friends and family members ahead of time if their homes would be available to you, and research pet-friendly hotels in outlying areas.

It's almost time for revaccination for your Chihuahua

It's almost time for revaccination

As your puppy nears his first birthday, it's time to start thinking, once again, about protecting him from disease. the most common diseases are Distemper, Infectious Canine Hepatitis, Parvovirus infections, Bordetellosis, Parainfluenza, Leptospirosis and Rabies. Your puppy may get a combination shot that vaccinates him against many of these diseases at once.

Vaccination schedule

Before he was 12 weeks old, your puppy should have received his first shot, protecting him against the most common infectious diseases. the second shot usually takes place between 10 - 16 weeks of age, and the third shot between 14 - 16 weeks of age. the American Veterinary Medical Association suggests that puppies be revaccinated annually after their third shot. the exception to this is the vaccination schedule for rabies. the rabies vaccination is usually given at 12 weeks, again at 64 weeks, and then every 1 - 3 years depending on local laws.

Why should you vaccinate your puppy?

It's easy. Vaccinations protect your puppy from infectious diseases. the vaccine is actually a weakened dose of the same disease the shot is protecting your puppy from. Without these shots your puppy's immune system wouldn't recognize the disease, and the antibodies in your puppy's body wouldn't know to destroy it.

You want your puppy to be around for a long time, and you want him to be a healthy companion for you. To protect him from infectious disease, make sure he is revaccinated, and that his vaccinations are kept up to date. this is an important topic - don't hesitate to speak to your veterinarian if you have any questions. Your veterinarian can advise you as to what vaccinations are necessary, specific to where you live.

Suggested Vaccination Schedule for Puppies and Dogs:

DISEASE	1st shot	2nd shot	3rd shot	Revaccination Interval
	Weeks of age
Distemper	6 - 10	10 - 12	14 - 16	annually thereafter
Infectious Canine Hepatitis	6 - 8	10 - 12	14 - 16	annually thereafter
Parvovirus infections	6 - 8	10 - 12	14 - 16	annually thereafter
Bordetellosis	6 - 8	10 - 12	14 - 16	annually thereafter
Parainfluenza	6 - 8	10 - 12	14 - 16	annually thereafter
Leptospirosis	10 - 12	14 - 16		annually thereafter
Rabies	12	64		1 - 3 years depending on local laws

Aggression in the adolescent Chihuahua puppy

Aggression in the adolescent puppy

Adolescence is a time of change for your puppy. Your well-behaved puppy may be showing signs of aggression during this period and it's important to recognize and curb any aggressive behavior quickly. He's not a puppy anymore, but he isn't an adult yet either. He still has some growing up to do and he needs your help to develop into a well-adjusted adult dog. It helps to be familiar with the aggressive behavior that may be displayed during this period so that if your adolescent puppy shows this behavior you will recognize it, and know how to best deal with it.

Signs of aggression

Watch for the signs of aggression. Some signs may be subtle but if you aren't paying attention, and miss the initial signs, your puppy's aggressive behavior will get worse. For example: you have a guest over and your puppy jumps up on the guest in greeting. You command your puppy to sit and he instead leaves the room. You may rationalize that although your puppy ignored your command his disobedience wasn't really important because the same end was achieved – he stopped jumping up on your guest. But in your puppy's mind he has just won a battle and he may push the boundaries a bit further the next time. Never give your puppy a command unless you are prepared to enforce it.

If your puppy becomes possessive with his toys and growls if anyone goes near them he is showing aggressive behavior. Or maybe your puppy has a spot on the couch that he's claimed as his own and he growls if anyone else sits there. That is another example of aggressive behavior. Testing the boundaries he has been given as a puppy is normal in adolescence but it's important that your puppy's behavior is corrected in a consistent manner.

No excuses

Don't make excuses for your puppy's behavior. Excusing his aggressive behavior because "he never did that before" or "he's always so good with me" will only make the situation worse. Watch your puppy for signs of aggression and be consistent in your treatment of it and you will stop your puppy's aggressive tendencies early. If your puppy's aggressive behavior is not caught early it may be necessary to enroll your puppy in obedience school.

Chihuahua Dog Lodge

Dog Lodge August 31, 2006

Learning hotel pet policies and planning ahead will make traveling with your pup a snap. When searching for travel accommodations, ask about pet fees and policies on leaving pets unattended in the room. For security, buy a crate for each pet and practice using it a few times before the trip. A ground-floor room makes it easier to walk your pet. If you leave your pet alone in the room, turn on the TV and air conditioning for comfort. And don't allow your dog to drink out of hotel fountains, which often contain antifreeze.

Fenced In

Dog-proof your yard to prevent loss or injury. Remove any toxic materials that your dog could eat and surround your yard with a strong fence -- wood, chain, or electronic. Make sure it's the right height. If your dog can look over the fence while standing on his hind legs, there is a chance the collar will get caught, which may choke him. A breakaway collar, designed to break open when pressure is applied, will help prevent such accidents in an unsupervised yard.

How do you show your adolescent puppy that you are the leader of the pack?

How do you show your adolescent puppy that you are the leader of the pack?

Dogs are pack animals. It's important that your puppy recognizes his role in the pack - and your role as "leader of the pack". During adolescence some puppies may act like they have forgotten that you are the pack leader. How do you remind your good puppy, who may be acting badly, that you are the "alpha dog"? The following article will give you tips on how to show your leadership - and how this makes for a happier and well-adjusted puppy.

How does the leader of the pack act?

As the leader of the pack, you never raise your voice in anger. Screaming at your puppy communicates to him that you are out of control, and doesn't instill confidence in your role as a leader. The same goes with the use of physical force.

You must be consistent with your puppy. This isn't always easy. Sometimes you might not be in the mood to discipline your puppy. Maybe your puppy has just ripped a cushion open, and the sight of him in the middle of your living room floor covered with feathers is so cute that you laugh – and then reach for your camera. Tempting as this might be, it's a good idea not to accept any behavior from your puppy that you wouldn't want to see again, now or when he's an adult dog. Many puppy-owners have trouble with this. They don't want to come off as heavy-handed, and they don't want to curb their puppy's natural behavior. It's important to remember that what may be cute in your puppy now may not be so cute when he is 3 times bigger.

Don't neglect to correct your puppy's behavior when necessary. Correct his behavior by saying "no!" in a clear voice and withhold your attention for a short time. Your puppy needs to know that he can trust your direction. If you wait to correct his behavior he won't associate the correction with his bad behavior, and may be confused by the mixed messages he is getting. The same goes for praising your puppy when his behavior is good.

Remember that each puppy is different. Some will be submissive while others may challenge their role in the pack, especially during adolescence. Regardless of what kind of puppy you have, it's necessary for your puppy to understand his role, and your role.

A few more tips to show your puppy that you are the "alpha dog"

• Train your puppy to sit while you are eating, instead of begging for table scraps. Feed your puppy after you have eaten. This shows him that you come first and he is submissive to you.
• Don't make excuses for your puppy when he ignores a command. And never give a command you are not prepared to enforce.
• Spend time with your puppy. This is the best way to understand him, and being the leader of the pack is not a substitute for creating an affectionate bond with your puppy.

Remember, being the leader of the pack is not a bad role. It doesn't mean that you are constantly correcting your puppy. It means that you are setting clearly defined rules for your puppy, and this helps him become a well-adjusted dog and pleasant companion.

Food bowl manners

Food bowl manners

A 9 to 12 month old puppy is growing up and as he develops it is important to teach him to allow humans to approach his food bowl – even when he is eating. Having a puppy with good food bowl habits is something every family wants but few people know how to go about teaching. Training your pup to enjoy human approach takes some time but it is not a difficult process. (It is best to do this training away from children so they don't imitate you.)

Step one: Put a small amount of food in your pup's bowl. When he finishes it, go over and put some more in his bowl. Continue this until his whole meal is eaten.

Goal: For your pup to eagerly anticipate your approach.

Step two: Once his tail is wagging as you approach his empty bowl, you can start approaching while he is still eating.

Goal: For your pup to be as happy about your approach as in step one.

Step three: Put down his whole meal. As he eats, add a special treat to his bowl. Do this a few times each meal. Be sure to speak to him kindly as you approach and stroke him as you drop the goodie into his bowl.

Goal: For him to stay relaxed throughout his meal.

Step four: Go to your pup as he eats, pick up the bowl mid-meal, add some treats to his bowl and then put it immediately back down. Stay and stroke him for a moment. Most pups don't mind this once they realize you're adding in some extra treats. Only do this once every few meals because you don't want this to become an annoyance.

Goal: To prevent your puppy from becoming possessive of his food bowl.

Going the extra mile

Is your puppy still relaxed? Try stepping quickly toward his bowl, then drop in a treat. Gently bump into him while he eats, then drop a treat into his bowl. Roll toys near him while he's eating and lunge to retrieve them – imitate a child playing. Even if your child is well mannered, your child's friends may not be, so prepare your pup for all eventualities.

Goal: For your puppy to learn that people may be a bit annoying and bumbling but they mean well and bear good things.

Again, do this every so often – not every meal. If your pup glares at you, freezes mid-chew, growls during any of this training, or if you feel nervous for any reason, get help from acompetent trainer or behaviorist.

Multiple dogs

If you have two puppies or a puppy and an older dog, feed them separately. You can crate them. You can tether them (always supervised and on non-tightening collars). You can feed them in separate rooms. Do not allow one dog to intrude on the other's food bowl. While some dogs don't seem to mind intrusions, it is wise to take precautions to prevent possible problems.

Puppies and cats

Feed cats beyond your puppy's reach because cat food is irresistible to many pups. Using a baby gate to keep him out of the room that houses the cat food, or feeding the cat on top of something tall are simple ways to achieve this goal.

With a bit of effort meals can be a peaceful, tail wagging time at your house.

Working Dog June 22, 2006

Working Dog June 22, 2006

Would working like a dog be easier with your four-legged friend at your side? A recent survey indicates that the majority of dog owners would put in longer hours if their pet could accompany them to work, and one out of three said they'd take a pay cut for the perk. While most pooch acceptance is found in small businesses, a few large companies welcome employee dogs. June 23 is Take Your Dog to Work Day. Check with your employer to see if your company is willing to participate.

CHIHUAHUA NAILS (CLAWS)

NAILS (CLAWS)

Dog claws should be trimmed around every 2-3 months depending on growth, although indoor pets may need more frequent attention. Dogs that have access to concrete or hard surfaces will need less as they will naturally wear down on these surfaces or by walking them on foot paths. Dog claws naturally wear down through normal activity, but when kept indoors, often need them trimmed more often as they are not as active and generally walk on softer surfaces. When dog claws are too long you may hear them click as they walk across a hard surfaced floor. This is a sign to pay attention. Long claws are more prone to infection. Overgrown claws can cause painful paw injuries. A claw can be ripped out or could snag something or even crack in some cases, resulting in a painful wound.

The canine workout

The canine workout.

Some dogs naturally need more activity and mental stimulation than others. Often this is breed-related. Your veterinarian can advise you about what's right for your puppy. If your puppy is high-energy, he'll generally need two 30-minute sessions a day. You may need to assign the sessions to different family members. Medium-energy dogs need two 20-minute sessions daily, and less active dogs can get by on two 15-minute sessions every day.

And to make sure your puppy grows accustomed to brushing, be sure to reward him with a treat or with praise when you're done.

Lawn alert.
Make sure your puppy's play area is safe:

Follow label directions when using weed killers and pest control, and keep your puppy out of freshly treated areas.
Don't let your puppy chew on flowers or shrubbery. Some plants may be toxic.
Lawn mowers, weed trimmers, saws and other tools must be moved out of your dog's reach. And keep dogs away from hot barbecue grills too.
On the fence.
Keeping your dog safe in your yard requires good fencing. Here are a few of the most popular options:

Privacy fencing provides excellent containment and helps keep a noisy dog from barking since there are no openings to see outside.
Chain-link fencing is durable, inexpensive and effective for most dogs. Some can climb these fences and collars can get tangled on fence edges.
Underground electric fencing, or "invisible" fencing, is a good solution for some dogs. It can't be jumped over or dug under. But it doesn't keep other animals out, and some hunting breeds will ignore the fence while chasing prey.
A covered kennel will keep your puppy from digging, climbing or jumping out. Just remember, your dog will still need plenty of outside exercise and quality time with you.
ID required.
If your puppy is playing outside more often, it's essential to provide proper pet ID. At minimum, this means plastic collar tags with your phone number. You might also check with your veterinarian about microchip or tattoo IDs-affordable options that stay with your dog.

Common Dog Infections

Common Dog Infections

 

Respiratory Infection

 

Skin Problems or Infection

 

Urinary Tract Infection or Urinary Tract Problems

Is the Chihuahua for you?

Is the Chihuahua for you?
It's easy to imagine yourself with a loving companion, warming your lap and shadowing your steps, providing love on lonely days and security on lonely nights. And these scenes are very much part of living with a Chihuahua. Don't get a Chihuahua if you don't want a constant addition to your lap.

The Chihuahua's small size is generally an asset as small dogs are easier to feed, groom, transport, require less exercise and clean up after however, small dogs are susceptible to injury from accidents that large dogs might not even notice. Their size makes them vulnerable to injuries from other dogs, careless adults, and rough children. Chihuahuas are already pushing the envelope as far as size and health are concerned. Choosing the tiniest of an already tiny breed tends to magnify the chance and severity of any possible health problems. A tiny Chihuahua is not a good choice for an inexperienced dog owner. It is suggested that a dog weighing about 1.8 kg is ideal - small enough to be very cute yet large enough to be fairly sturdy. "Teacup" Chihuahuas are simply very small Chihuahuas. A rule of thumb is that adult Chihuahuas will weigh roughly twice as much as they do when they are twelve weeks old.

Your selection of a puppy can be determined by your needs, a show potential or a good pet. While you may purchase a puppy in the hope of having a successful career in the show ring, it is impossible to tell, at eight to ten weeks whether your dog will be a contender. Some promising pups end up with minor to serious faults which would prevent them from taking home a Best of Breed award, but this certainly does not mean that they can't be the best companions for you and your family.

In order to assess the puppy's personality it would be a good idea to interact with his parents as the puppy inherits not only his appearance but also his personality from his parents. If the parents are fearful or overly aggressive, these same characteristics may likely show up in your puppy. A puppy that freezes in place or always heads home when carried a short distance away from its litter mates may not have the self-confidence typical of the Chihuahua.

The teeth should be straight and meet up evenly, with the top incisors just overlapping the lower incisors. Crooked teeth and undershot bites will only get worse with age. The gums should be pink; pale gums may indicate anaemia.   It's human nature to go for the extremes in temperament, but for most family companions you're better off choosing the puppy that is neither the boldest nor the shyest in the litter. Should you be choosing a Chihuahua as a pet dog and not a show dog you should select a puppy that is friendly and attractive.   The gender of your puppy is a matter of personal taste and again the coat length bearing in mind that a long-coat will require a little more grooming than a smooth coat but neither is very time consuming. Long-coat Chihuahuas require less brushing than other long-coated breeds and they can be maintained easily. Chihuahuas are available in a multitude of lovely colours.   It is important that you obtain from your breeder the puppy's pedigree and registration certificate registered with a recognised kennel club should you plan on showing or breeding in the future. It records your puppy's ancestry and other important data, such as the pup's date of birth, its sex, its sire and dam, its breeder's name and address and so on. If your dog has pure bred champions in his background, then the pedigree papers are valuable as evidence of the good breeding behind your dog. At the time of acquiring your puppy you may have considered him to be a pet only, but with time you may want to have him shown or perhaps even breed and therefore it is important that the breeder registers your puppy through a recognised kennel club.

A bit about their history…

A bit about their history…

The first record of the Chihuahua breed seems to have occurred in 1884 when Mexicans began selling them to tourists in the border markets. American visitors to Mexico named the dogs according to the region of the border in which they were found, such as Arizona Dogs, Texas Dogs, or simply Mexican Dogs. However, so many came from the Mexican state of Chihuahua just south of the border that the name Chihuahua dogs stuck. No matter what its ancient roots may be, the Chihuahua will always be considered a Mexican breed. Chihuahuas first appeared in American dog shows in 1890 and was recognised by the United Kennel Club in 1948.

  More about these spunky, lively, bold and quick witted dogs…   He carries his head proudly and tail confidently and moves with a brisk forceful action and never does he just stroll but will instead move as though he has exciting things to do and leaves no doubt that he owns every inch of the way.   They are incredibly brave for their size and at times this gets them into more trouble than they can handle.   A Chihuahua will soon become your best friend regarding you as the centre of his universe as he prefers human companionship over that of its own species. They are noted for preferring the company of other Chihuahuas to that of other breeds but will lower themselves to consort with other breeds, especially if they are raised with them. They are a clannish breed and enjoy being in a pack of Chihuahuas. The breed commonly lives well past 10 years.   Chihuahuas have a strong immune system, overall hardiness and are disease free pure-bred.   They are considered to be excellent and reliable alarm dogs. When your Chihuahua barks it may be worth investigating!   They are the most adaptable breed. They rarely shiver from fear or cold but will tremble if nervous or excited. They are sun-worshippers and love sunbathing in the sun for hours and even when kept indoors will find that little pool of warm sun.  

WARNING: Chihuahua ownership is addictive! Their small size makes adding more and more to your household very tempting but don't lose sight of the fact that each Chihuahua needs as much, if not more, love and attention than a large breed of dog.   Chihuahuas are available in a rainbow of colours and in both smooth and long coats. Don't expect a long coat to develop fully until a year or more of age.

 

Socialization of your puppy

Socialization of your puppy

Socialization is the term we use to describe how a dog learns to relate to people, other dogs and his environment. Your dog will keep on learning throughout his whole life, but puppyhood is the time when experiences – good or bad – have the biggest impact on him. These experiences are critical to your puppy’s future, and will have a long-lasting effect on his behavior throughout his life. Also, socializing your puppy is great fun, and serves as an excellent chance for you to get to know him really well. Following are some useful tips on puppy socialization.

Expose your puppy to different sights and sounds

In a perfect world your puppy’s socialization would have started in his first months of life but even if your pup is eight months old it’s never too late to socialize him, and the process continues his whole life. Think of all the situations and environments that your puppy will need to be comfortable in: riding in the car, meeting strangers, having contact with the children next door (and children in general), walking along the street, tolerating large trucks and cars, large animals such as horses, vacuum cleaners, and washing machines – to name just a few.

You are basically aiming at preparing your puppy for all eventualities so that whenever he encounters anyone or anything new, he’ll greet it with inquisitiveness rather than fear or aggression. Expose your puppy to all sights and sounds gradually, and allow him to explore and learn for himself; for example, switch on the vacuum cleaner in another room to avoid startling him with a sudden loud noise, and let him go find it. Make sure that when he finds the vacuum cleaner, this is a rewarding rather than a threatening experience. You can easily do this by placing a piece of food next to the vacuum cleaner. If your puppy is quite shy and frightened, you can start off by placing a snack next to the switched-off vacuum cleaner, and then work your way towards your puppy tolerating it when the machine is switched on.

It’s essential that your puppy be completely comfortable being with people and children. So introduce him to all sorts of different people. Let him meet people of all descriptions: bearded, thin, overweight, tall, wearing hats or glasses, carrying bags, pushing bicycles, etc.

It is, however, important that children be taught the rules of handling puppies; an adult should always supervise children and dogs. Dogs may actually see children as a different species than adults, because they move differently, speak differently and react differently than adults. Start slowly by spending time in and around children's parks where your puppy will learn the sights and sounds of children playing. Start by having just a few children around your puppy, then build up to a larger number.

It is, of course, unrealistic and even impossible to expose your puppy to everything he’s likely to meet in the future. However, if you can teach him that new experiences are pleasant, he will grow up learning that unknown things and situations are something to explore, rather than to be fearful of. But don’t be surprised if your previously confident puppy starts to show apprehension towards objects he was fine with during his juvenile period (at approximately 14 months of age, depending on the breed), since this can be normal in some dogs at this age. If this happens, it’s important that you carry on with your socialization program by regularly re-exposing your young dog to novel experiences.

Interacting with other dogs

It’s also essential that your puppy learn to interact with other dogs correctly. Puppies, like all young animals, love to play, and games play a vital part in a dog’s development. Dogs develop their canine communication skills through playing with other dogs as puppies.

Through playing, dogs learn the behavior of not biting. When puppies play physical games, they soon learn that a litter mate or adult dog will not tolerate sharp teeth pulling on ears or necks. If a puppy “bites” another dog too hard, he will get a quick reprimand, with the other dog stopping the game for a brief moment. A puppy soon learns to limit the strength of his “bites,” and will stop biting too hard when he’s playing with other dogs.

You and your family should continue teaching your puppy not to bite. Whenever your puppy uses his teeth on your skin, you should respond with a sharp yelp of pain (even if it doesn’t hurt), as this will teach your puppy to learn that touching human skin with his teeth is not allowed, no matter how gentle he is. Also, the game you and your puppy were playing should stop for a moment, which will help your puppy quickly learn that to continue having fun he must not "bite" you.

Adopting a puppy

Adopting a puppy

Are you adopting your first puppy or do you want to bring a second puppy into your home? It’s easy to fall in love with a puppy at first sight, however it’s important to do your research and pick the puppy that is best suited to you. For example, the puppy whose face melts your heart may be very laid back and not fit into your active lifestyle. This can be very disappointing, especially if you saw yourself with a puppy who would share in your activities.

You will also need to choose what breed of puppy you want. Do you want a pure-breed or a mixed-breed puppy? Bringing a puppy into your home is a long-term commitment and your decision should be made after careful consideration, both emotional and practical.

Adopting a puppy from an animal shelter or rescue organization

This can be a wonderful feel-good experience. Not only are you adopting a puppy into your home, you’re also saving his life. But it can also be a difficult experience – you may find it hard to walk away with only one puppy. Following are a few points to consider when adopting a puppy from a shelter:

Shelters are not just for mixed breeds. Although most puppies in a shelter are mixed breeds, there may be pure breeds, too. Most of the puppies in shelters are there because they were abandoned when their owners realized they didn’t have the time or energy to care for them – this can happen to both mixed and pure-breed puppies.

Don’t look and leap into adoption. It’s important to interact with the puppy. Is he aggressive or very submissive? While observing your puppy, remember that he may not be at his best in the stressful environment of the shelter. Ask a friend or family member to come with you to the shelter. They can help you stay objective, and stop you from adopting the first puppy you see. Visit the shelter several times before making your decision.

Information. Most of the puppies in shelters have been abandoned and as a result you may not get much information about your puppy’s background.

Look for medical problems. Your puppy should look and sound healthy. He should not be coughing and there should not be any discharge from his eyes or nose. Check with the shelter staff to find out what vaccinations your puppy has received.

After the adoption. Be patient while your new puppy adjusts to his environment. Being in your home will be a very different environment, and he will need time to get used to his new surroundings. To help your puppy adjust to his new home give him a toy before leaving the shelter. Let him familiarize himself with the toy while still at the shelter and when you get home place the toy beside his new bed.

Adopting a puppy from a breeder

If you’re looking for a purebred puppy you will usually be adopting from a breeder. The benefits of adopting from a breeder are many, including the fact that any reputable breeder will be able to provide your puppy’s full history.

Picking a breeder. The facility should be clean and the breeder should be willing and able to answer all of your questions.

Socialization. A reputable breeder will have started your puppy’s socialization. Your puppy should be comfortable being handled and should not show signs of aggression.

Age. Puppies need time with their mothers. Reputable breeders will not let a puppy go until he is at least 8 weeks of age.

Background. Your puppy’s mother should be nearby. Ask to see the mother so you can get a feeling for your puppy’s temperament and assess how big he may grow.

The most important tip when adopting a puppy

Be realistic. Do you have the time necessary to spend with a puppy (or two if this is your second puppy)? He will need to be exercised and played with daily. He will also need training and should be made to feel he is a member of your family. Are you ready for a 10 to 15 year commitment? If your answer is yes, think about what puppy would best suit your lifestyle and take your time in choosing the right puppy for you. Then get ready for a rewarding relationship.

Gnawing Problem

Is your dog chewing you out of house and home?

Dogs tend to chew or gnaw on inappropriate objects when they're bored, anxious, or craving attention. Designating play zones throughout your house and equipping each with a few pup-friendly chew toys and treats can cut down on the destruction. If you catch your dog in the midst of destructive chewing, take the item from him or her and walk away. On the other hand, if your dog is happily chomping on a toy, stick, or bone, reinforce the good behavior with enthusiastic praise and petting.

Feeding your Chihuahua

Feeding your Chihuahua

Feeding is an important concern for all Chihuahua and small dog owners.  Small dogs and other small animals are susceptible to hypoglycemia.  Hypoglycemia is a condition where the blood sugar level drops to an extremely low level, causing 'sugar shock.'

To prevent low blood sugar, small Chihuahuas should have small frequent meals and plenty of time to rest.  Another preventative for this is to feed your dog Nutrical, available from your Veterinarian or your local pet store. Nutrical gives your dog the vitamins needed with a single inch strip in the morning and in the evening.  Vanilla yogurt mixed in their food is also another good source. 

Recommended food brands are Eukanuba, and other major pet store brands.  Feeding your pet "expensive" store brands can actually be less expensive, as your pet will be eating less, while actually in taking more nutrients and vitamins.  Eukanuba offers a small breed formula, created especially for smaller dogs and Iams offers a MiniChunks option.

As for soft food:  Soft food is an excellent way to teach your small puppies to eat solid foods.  It is not at all a good habit to keep.  Your dog may be little, and of course a little spoiled, however, feeding them only canned and soft foods can cause a lot of harm to their teeth over time.  The hard food keeps their teeth clean of tarter and strong.  Being that Chihuahuas live almost 20 years, keeping their teeth in optimum health is really in not only their best interest, but yours as well.  Occasional soft food is an excellent treat.

What are ear mites?

What are ear mites? Ear mites can affect a dog at any age, however they're more common in puppies because puppies haven't built up immunity to them. Ear mites are tiny crab-like parasites that live in the ear canals, and sometimes on the body, of dogs. They feed on earwax and other secretions in the ear canal. They rarely bite but they can cause a severe inflammation in affected dog's ears. Excessive shaking of the head or scratching of the ears or an odor coming from your puppy's ears may be signs that ear mites have moved into his ear canal. You can check for ear mites by looking inside your puppy's ear. If you see a thick crusty substance that looks similar to ground coffee this is usually a sign that ear mites are there. Treating ear mites Ear mites are one of the most common causes of canine ear troubles and can be persistent, however they're easy to diagnose and you can treat them at home. If you suspect your puppy is suffering from ear mites visit your veterinarian. Your veterinarian will check to make sure your puppy's ear irritation is a result of ear mites and not an infection of some kind. Because the signs indicating ear mites are similar to other ear problems it's important to check with your veterinarian. If you misdiagnosed your puppy's problem and treated an infection with ear mite medication it could make the infection worse. Your veterinarian will clean out your puppy's ears and prescribe anti- mite eardrops. It usually takes 4-6 weeks of treatment to get rid of the mites. Once treatment starts the mites may decide to move somewhere else on your puppy's body, usually to the base of his tail. To prevent this use a flea powder or spray on your puppy's whole body at the same time treatment of his ears is going on. Ear mites are very contagious and can be passed from any furry animal to your puppy. Because of this it's necessary to treat all furry animals that share a home with the affected puppy.

Vaccinating the Young

Vaccinating the Young

Newly born animals' immune systems are not yet developed enough to fight off invading diseases. The mother's body, therefore, responds to this need by producing a special type of milk during the first few days after she gives birth. Called colostrum, this milk contains all of the antibodies to diseases that the mother has retained over her lifetime and passes them on to her offspring, which then acquire immunity against many different diseases. The first two days after birth, thus, are extremely important in the determination of what degree of immunity newborn animals receive. Maternal antibodies to numerous diseases can make the difference between life and death for newborns. By the time they are 15-20 weeks old, young animals will need to establish their own immunity. Unfortunately, however, maternal antibodies wear off after a certain time, and vaccines cannot take effect until maternal antibody levels have dropped enough. So as long as maternal immunity is retained in the young animal's system, any vaccines that are given to it will be ineffectual. It is at this critical juncture that a young pet should be vaccinated at multiple intervals, to ensure the greatest likelihood of preventing disease. Veterinarians need to vaccinate young pets several times over the course of their adolescence, until the vaccines can take full effect. Even with adult animals, it is often best to administer a vaccine twice, to ensure a more effective immune response.

How Expensive Is Vaccination?

Although vaccination is vital to your pet's health, it can also be expensive. The expense of going to your veterinarian for pets' vaccinations can accumulate, especially if you have more than one pet. As a cheaper alternative, in most states you can obtain over-the-counter vaccines at significant savings over what you would pay at the veterinarian's office. You will have to administer the actual vaccination yourself, however, so you should be sure to educate yourself thoroughly on the use of a hypodermic needle. You should feel comfortable with the whole process. If you choose to do this, PetCareRx.com can provide you with cheap, effective vaccines that are conveniently shipped to you in a carefully temperature-controlled box. Alternatively, you may be able to find a vaccination clinic in your surrounding area that can provide your pet with all of the vaccines it needs, at steeply discounted prices. You should make sure that it is clean, safe and reputable.

Anaphylaxis

Anaphylaxis is an uncommon but extremely dangerous allergic reaction to something a pet may have ingested or been injected with, resulting in respiratory and cardiac failure, shock and/or death. Vaccines, antibiotics, stinging insects, hormones, medications and foods have all been known to cause anaphylaxis in certain animals. It is an extremely urgent situation requiring immediate emergency veterinary assistance. It can be difficult to predict whether or not an animal will develop an anaphylactic reaction to something, but if your pet has already had a severe reaction to a certain substance, that substance should definitely be avoided. If your pet has ever developed a reaction to a specific vaccine or medication, have your veterinarian make a note of this in your pet's medical file. If you vaccinate your pet yourself, be sure to have epinephrine available, in case a reaction occurs. If your pet experiences an anaphylactic reaction, you should inject it with epinephrine immediately and obtain emergency veterinary assistance. Furthermore, vaccines often contain antibiotics as preservatives, so if you know your pet is allergic to a specific antibiotic, you should monitor which vaccines contain that antibiotic. Some animals are allergic to bites from bees and other insects, so obtain a prescription for epinephrine and take it with you when you go on extended outdoor trips.

Allergic Reactions in Your Pet

Much like humans, many animals develop allergies to airborne substances, like pollen, mold, dust, feathers and wool. The signs of allergies in pets are quite different from those in humans. While people contract respiratory symptoms, like runny nose, sneezing and itchy eyes, animals exhibit allergies through frequent scratching. To alleviate some of these symptoms, you should try some of the following therapies. Try adding colloidal oatmeal to the water you bathe your pet in. This will maximize the soothing effect of the bath on the skin and fur. Also, be sure to keep your pets indoors, particularly in the warmer months, when pollen is often present in the air. Cat owners should carefully examine the ingredients of your cat's litter, which may contain specific chemicals, dyes or perfumes which may affect both cats and dogs alike.

Rabbit Viral Hemorrhagic Disease Outbreak in Iowa

Otherwise known as Rabbit Calicivirus Disease (RCD), Viral Hemorrhagic Disease (VHD) is a rabbit disease, which has not been seen in the United States or Canada until recently. It is a major, potentially deadly disease, which is native to parts of Europe, Asia, Africa, Australia and New Zealand. In early April 2000, VHD was identified in a group of 27 rabbits in Iowa. The origin of the outbreak remains a mystery, although the outbreak has been officially contained. The first case of VHD was reported in China in 1984. Since then, the disease has spread from China to Europe to Mexico and elsewhere. This virus is extremely contagious and can be transferred through contact with other rabbits, rabbit products, infected objects and through the air. Symptoms may include fever, lethargy, trembling, excitement and lack of coordination.

Donations aided in pug's surgery

Donations aided in pug's surgery

06:44 AM CST on Wednesday, March 29, 2006 Associated Press

FOREST LAKE, Minn. - A little pug named Buck has been saved, thanks to a group of dog lovers who bonded through the Internet.

After the 2-year-old pug was hit by a car last week and broke three legs, its owners, Colleen and Jim Bighley, were faced with a $3,000 surgery bill they couldn't afford.

Colleen Bighley shared her grief on a pug-lovers' Web site and wrote about her plans to give the dog one night at home before putting it to sleep.

But 14 minutes after Bighley's post, a pug owner in Australia offered to donate money for the surgery. Others followed, and more than 200 donations totaling about $2,000 came in, from as far away as France and Alaska.

Buck is home recuperating now, and Bighley has a new appreciation for Web ties.

"Some people think I'm weird because I go on the Internet to talk about my dog," Bighley said. "My sister-in-law told me she can't call me a geek anymore, because all these people saved my dog's life."

Normal Values and Characteristics

Normal Values and Characteristics
Veterinary & Aquatic Services Department, Drs. Foster & Smith, Inc.

The following table provides information on the reproduction and normal physiologic values of dogs. Most of the values are given in ranges, and depending upon the source, you may find somewhat different ranges provided elsewhere.

Normal Temperature (ºF)

Adult:
99.5 - 102.5

Newborn Puppy:
96 – 97

Normal Heart Rate (beats per minute)

Adult:
70 - 180

Newborn Puppy:
Over 200

Respiratory Rate (breaths per minute)

Adult:
20 - 40

Newborn Puppy:
15 – 35

 

Puberty (months) Litter Size (smaller breeds tend to have smaller litters)

5 - 12

 

Length of Pregnancy (days)

 

58 - 68

 

Weaning Age

Starts at 3 weeks

Completed at 5 - 7 weeks

 

 

Dog's barking helps family escape fire

Dog's barking helps family escape fire

SOUTH BRUNSWICK, N.J. - A newly adopted dog's noisy barking alerted a sleeping family that their home was on fire, allowing them to escape the blaze with only minor injuries.

John Cramer, 54, and his wife, Cheryl, 44, were in their second-floor bedroom when he heard the dog howling around 6:30 a.m Sunday, authorities said.

When he went downstairs to comfort Toby, a Norwegian elkhound who had been with the family for just two weeks, he saw flames creeping up the walls from the basement.

As the smoke thickened inside the home, Cramer opened the crate to free Toby and then ran upstairs to rouse his wife and their 9-year-old daughter, Lee.

The family then quickly escaped along with Toby and Casey, another elkhound who was sleeping upstairs, but they could not save their three cats, who died in the blaze.

Investigators believe the fire began in the basement near an electrical outlet, and they were trying to determine if a faulty circuit sparked the flames.

The fire had been burning for about 30 minutes before it was discovered and caused severe damage to the home, authorities said.

Long Coats

Marcuccino’s K-9 Chihuahua Darlings

 

The following questions are being asked of you so that the right puppy and the right placement of each puppy is made by bringing the various requirements of both the puppy and his or new owner(s) into perspective, BEFORE a choice is made. I hope you will agree that the animal's welfare must be my foremost consideration in considering a placement. Please answer the following questions as completely as you can, and return this form when you've finished.

 

 

•Name:

• Address:

• Phone (home): (work):

• Referred by:

• What reference materials have you read?

• How many individuals of this breed are you acquainted with?

• Type of dwelling: house condo apartment mobile home

• If renting, please give name and address of landlord:

 

 • Name, address and phone number of your veterinarian:

  

1. Who will be the primary care giver?

 

2. Where will the puppy be kept during the night?

 

3. Where will the puppy be kept during the day?

 

4. Is anyone home during the day?

 

5. How many hours on the average will the puppy be left alone?

 

6. Will there be someone available to feed and exercise the puppy during the day?

 

7. Have you ever owned a dog before?

 

8. Do you have any other animals?

 

9. Do you have any children? If yes, what are their ages.

 

10. Does anyone in your household have allergies to animals?

 

11. If yes, to what and how severe?

 

12. Are you interested in a male or female puppy?

 

13. At what age do you wish to get the puppy?

 

14. Have you considered an older dog instead of a puppy?15. How did you bear about this breed?

 

16. What do you expect the activity level of this breed to be:

 

very high high moderate below average

 

17. What kind of floor surfaces will the dog be on in the house?

 

18. How many hours a day will the puppy be kept outside?

 

19. How will he be confined when he is outside?

 

20. Do you have a fenced yard or suitable pen?

 

21. Have you ever house trained a dog before?

 

22. How long have you lived at this address?

 

23. Will you be attending any training classes?

 

24. If yes, at what age will you start, which activities or competitions are you interested in, who is the trainer?

 

25. How long did your last pet live? What were the circumstances of its' death?

 

26. Have you ever returned a pet to the breeder? If so, what were the circumstances?

 

27. Have you ever given a pet away? If so, what were the circumstances?

 

28. Have you ever taken a pet to a pound or shelter? If so, what were the circumstances?

 

29. Are you interested in showing the dog in the conformation ring?

 

30. Have you ever shown a dog to it's championship?

 

31. Are you interested in competition in performance events such as obedience, agility, hunting, herding, etc.?

 

32. Have you shown a dog to any performance titles?

 

33. Do you intend to breed the dog?

 

34. Do you understand the difference between a limited registration and a full registration?

 

Chihuahua History

All About Chihuahuas

 

According to the Chinese calendar, this is the Year of the Dog.

 

The Chihuahua is a tiny dog with an apple-shaped head and a short pointed muzzle. It has round, large, very dark eyes, sometimes dark ruby or luminous in color. The trademark large ears should be held erect. Puppies have a soft spot or "molera" on the top of the skull. The bone usually closes the gap by adulthood. The body is cobby (stout), longer than it is tall, and the tail is sickle-shaped - curled over the back or to the side. Besides the common short-haired variety there is also a long- haired type. Colors include fawn, sand, chestnut, silver and steel blue, but any color is accepted, including black & tan and parti-color. The dog is more robust than he looks, with a level back, and legs coming down straight and square.

 

The Chihuahua is a good companion dog. Courageous, extremely lively, proud and enterprising, it gives and demands affection. Bold and saucy, it moves swiftly to avoid being stepped on. Chihuahua's are strong-willed, intensely loyal and become very attached to their owners, even to the point of jealousy. They like to lick their owner's faces. It is undeniably suspicious of people except for its owner. When strangers are present, it follows its owner's every move, keeping as close as possible. For some, they may be slightly difficult to train, but they are intelligent, learn quickly, and respond well to proper, gentle (positive reinforcement) training. This breed may snap at teasing children, after all it is too tiny to get away. The Chihuahua must resort to his sharp teeth in self defense. It is not recommended for children. He can be noisy and may require patience to housebreak. Many owners simply paper train this breed.

 

The Chihuahua hates the cold and may shiver. It will tolerate and even appreciate a warm sweater on cooler days. They are good little dogs for apartment life.

 

Although it is tempting to carry these dainty creatures about, they will keep fitter if taken for walks. A body harness is safer than a collar. Don't think that just because he is small he should be confined to a small space.

 

The smooth, short-haired coat should be gently brushed occasionally or simply wiped over with a damp cloth. The long coat should be brushed daily with a soft bristle brush. Bathe both types about once per month, taking care not to get water in the ears. Check the ears regularly and keep the nails trimmed. This breed is an average shedder.

 

This is the oldest breed on the American continent and the smallest breed in the world. Native to Mexico, nonetheless it seems to have been introduced by the Chinese. It was only brought to Europe at the end of the nineteenth century. The Chihuahua is named after the Mexican state of Chihuahua where he was brought to the rest of the world by travelers. This breed is believed to have been sacred to the Pre-Columbian Indian nations. The most valued dogs weigh under 2-1/4 pounds (1.3 kg.). Some can even stand on all fours in a person's palm! There is a long-haired variety that is judged separately, but is essentially the same except for the coat. The Chihuahua is a popular, economical companion dog.

 

Puppies always available. marcuccino@aol.com