Panda-dog

Some people will do anything for a bit of attention. Like dyeing their pet dog to make it look like a panda for example.
Poor pet Hab Bo, a breed of Chinese dog known as a Chow Chow, was forced to endure a particularly undignified paint job when his Chinese owner, Li Jin from Beijing, decided to transform him into a panda.
Despite the change in the colour of his coat from its more usual brown to a classy black and white, Hab Bo's panda disguise is not quite perfect.
While in many respects Hab Bo is a dead ringer for the endangered species, his tell-tale pink nose and blue-black tongue give his true identity away.

Why Train Your Dog?

Obedience training is one of the most important aspects of raising a dog. In fact, a well trained dog is by far a happier dog! Why? Because a trained dog requires fewer restrictions. The more reliable the dog, the more freedom he is given.

For example, many stores and businesses that normally won't allow dogs on their premises will make an exception for a puppy or a dog that will heel nicely by his owner's side, or will do a sit-stay or down-stay without hesitation.

And when company arrives in your home, there's no need to banish a well-behaved dog to another room for fear that he will be a royal nuisance. Moreover, because a well-mannered, obedience-trained dog is both appreciated and welcome, he receives more attention and interaction from family members, visitors, and passers-by, than does the ill-mannered dog.

Training serves to strengthen the bond between a dog and his owner. It builds communication, understanding, and mutual respect, and subtly but effectively demonstrates to your dog that you're the leader of the pack (commonly referred to as the "Alpha"). And if your dog doesn't respect you as his leader, you may both be in big trouble, particularly if he's a bit rowdy or dominant by nature.

Obedience training also gives the dog owner the voice control necessary to prevent numerous potential tragedies. For instance, should a dog slips out of his collar in the middle of a congested traffic intersection, he can be safely heeled across the street, then given a sit command to facilitate putting his collar back on. Or should someone accidentally leave the front door open, and you spot your dog leaving, he can be safely called back to you using the recall command.

Statistics also show that puppies which receive early socialization, obedience, and temperament training (aggression prevention training) are far less likely to end up being destroyed by the time they turn three years of age than those that do not receive this early training.

The creation myth

On the first day, God created the dog and said: "Sit all day by the door of your house and bark at anyone who comes in or walks past. For this, I will give you a life span of twenty years."

The dog said: "That's a long time to be barking. How about only ten years and I'll give you back the other ten?"

So God agreed.

On the second day, God created the monkey and said: "Entertain people, do tricks, and make them laugh. For this, I'll give you a twenty-year life span."

The monkey said: "Monkey tricks for twenty years? That's a pretty long time to perform. How about I give you back ten like the dog did?"

And God agreed.

On the third day, God created the cow and said:"You must go into the field with the farmer all day long and suffer under the sun, have calves and give milk to support the farmer's family For this, I will give you a life span of sixty Years."

The cow said: "That's kind of a tough life you want me to live for sixty years. How about twenty and I'll give back the other forty?"

And God agreed again.

On the fourth day, God created man and said: "Eat, sleep, play, marry and enjoy your life. For this, I'll give you twenty years."

But man said: "Only twenty years? Could you possibly give me my twenty, the forty the cow gave back, the ten the monkey gave back, and the ten the dog gave back; that makes eighty, okay?"

"Okay," said God, "You asked for it."

So that i s why for our first twenty years we eat, sleep, play and enjoy ourselves. For the next forty years we slave in the sun to support our family. For the next ten years we do monkey tricks to entertain the grandchildren. And for the last ten years we sit on the front porch and bark at everyone.

Life has now been explained to you.

Dogs' Views on Changing Light Bulbs (SMILE again!)

How many dogs does it take to change a light bulb? Depends on the dog's point of view....

GOLDEN RETRIEVER: The sun is shining, the day is young, we've got our whole lives ahead of us, and you're inside worrying about a stupid burned out bulb?

BORDER COLLIE: Just one. And then I'll replace any wiring that's not up to code.

DACHSHUND: You know I can't reach that stupid bulb!

ROTTWEILER: Make me.

LAB: Oh, me, me!!!! Pleeeeeeze let me change the light bulb! Can I? Can I? Huh? Huh? Huh? Can I?

MALAMUTE: Let the Border Collie do it. You can feed me while he's busy.

JACK RUSSELL TERRIER: I'll just pop it in while I'm bouncing off the walls and furniture.

POODLE: I'll blow in the Border Collie's ear and he'll do it. By the time he finishes rewiring the house, my nails will be dry.

COCKER SPANIEL: Why change it? I can pee on the carpet in the dark.

DOBERMAN PINSCHER: While it's dark, I'm going to sleep on the sofa.

BOXER: Who cares? I can play with my squeaky toys in the dark.

MASTIFF: Mastiffs are NOT afraid of the dark.

CHIHUAHUA: Yo quiero Taco Bulb.

IRISH WOLFHOUND: Can somebody else do it? I've got this hangover and..........

POINTER: I see it, there it is, there it is, right there!

GREYHOUND: It isn't moving. Who cares?

AUSTRALIAN SHEPHERD: First, I'll put all the light bulbs in a little circle....

OLD ENGLISH SHEEP DOG: Light bulb? That thing I just ate was a light bulb?

HOUND DOG: ZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZ

And the CAT: Dogs do not change light bulbs. People change light bulbs and I am not one of them. So, the question is, how long will it be before I get some light in here?

SMILE! Pet diaries...

Excerpts from a Dog's Diary


* 8:00 am - Dog food! My favorite thing!
* 9:30 am - A car ride! My favorite thing!
* 9:40 am - A walk in the park! My favorite thing!
* 10:30 am - Got rubbed and petted! My favorite thing!
* 12:00 pm - Lunch! My favorite thing!
* 1:00 pm - Played in the yard! My favorite thing!
* 3:00 pm - Wagged my tail! My favorite thing!
* 5:00 pm - Milk bones! My favorite thing!
* 7:00 pm - Got to play ball! My favorite thing!
* 8:00 pm - Wow! Watched TV with the people! My favorite thing!
* 11:00 pm - Sleeping on the bed! My favorite thing!

Excerpts from a Cat's Diary


Day 983 of my captivity.

My captors continue to taunt me with bizarre little dangling objects.

They dine lavishly on fresh meat, while the other inmates and I are fed hash or some sort of dry nuggets. Although I make my contempt for the rations perfectly clear, I nevertheless must eat something in order to keep up my strength. The only thing that keeps me going is my dream of escape.

In an attempt to disgust them, I once again vomit on the carpet.

Today I decapitated a mouse and dropped its headless body at their feet. I had hoped this would strike fear into their hearts, since it clearly demonstrates what I am capable of. However, they merely made condescending comments about what a "good little hunter" I am. Bastards!

There was some sort of assembly of their accomplices tonight. I was placed in solitary confinement for the duration of the event. However, I could hear the noises and smell the food. I overheard that my confinement was due to the power of "allergies." I must learn what this means, and how to use it to my advantage.

Today I was almost successful in an attempt to assassinate one of my tormentors by weaving around his feet as he was walking. I must try this again tomorrow --but at the top of the stairs.

I am convinced that the other prisoners here are flunkies and snitches.

The dog receives special privileges. He is regularly released - and seems to be more than willing to return. He is obviously retarded.

The bird has got to be an informant. I observe him communicate with the guards regularly. I am certain that he reports my every move. My captors have arranged protective custody for him in an elevated cell, so he is safe. For now . . .

Spoiled dogs

I know, spoiled are probably the owners, but when we love our pets sooooo much we can't help ourselves to buy them all the new trendy stuff.
So I'll give you some tips about some beautiful and useful things for your dog.

Big Pooch Bowl- This designer dog bowl is made of surgical grade stainless steel with black rubber accents, complements any home`s decor and it fits 5 cups of food or water. If you're looking for the coolest dog bowl , this Big Pooch Food Bowl ranks at the top.

Bubble Mouse Toy- As seen on the "Today Show!" Kitty and puppy will never be bored with this 2-in-1 Bubble Mouse Toy. Use the motorized furry mouse outside the bubble and watch your cat or small dog chase it to his or her heart`s delight. Place the mouse in the bubble and be amazed as it rolls around and deflects off surfaces, inviting your furry feline or small canine to play. This battery operated small dog and cat toy is perfect for your inquisitive pet. These electronic toys require 1 AAA battery. Great gift for small dogs and cats.

Reversible Microsuede Chocolate Collection bed- Four beds in one! This reversible, luxurious, super soft microsuede Chocolate Snuggle Beds are actually four beds in one. This fully machine washable bed can be reversed so you can alternate the colors to suit you and your dog`s mood. A removable tufted seat cushion is another nice feature that can also be reversed. Perfect for the traveling puppy and parent. Available for the extra small through large doggie. These reversible, microsuede chocolate dog beds are available in cinnamon, mint and cloud colors. Micorsuede is not only luxurious and soft but it is also a top upholstery grade fabric and it is made in the USA with 100%.

Dog problems?

There are several causes for the dog's behavior problems. The most common behavior problems are caused by the lack of training, a 'dominance' problem, inadequate socialization or the dog's genetics or temperament. Even as any of these might cause dog behavior problems, many dog behavior problems are caused in whole or in part by this one thing - not enough exercise!
The dog's exercise requirements depend on age, breed and individual. Puppies must not be exercised for more than 20 minutes at a time, but they can be exercised gently quite frequently. All puppies like to play, which tires them out with or without your help. Be careful not to walk your puppies for too long, their bones need to mature before they can be walked for long periods.
Different breeds have different exercise requirements. French Bulldogs for example don't need much exercise. There is a saying: French Bulldogs only need short walks in a long leash.

Chayenne growing

This is my puppy, Chayenne, trying to gain the privilege of playing in my bed.

My little French Bulldog is indeed growing fast. When we took her in our home she was 7 weeks old and she weighted 2 kg. Now she is almost 4 months old and she is already weighting 7 kg.


If We could learn from our Dogs


We would ...
Always run to greet our loved ones when they come home.
Never pass up the opportunity to go for a joyride.
Experience the ecstasy of the wind in your face.

When it's in your best interest, practice obedience.
Let others know when they've invaded your territory.
Take naps and stretch before rising.
Run, romp, and play every day.
Thrive on attention and touching.

Avoid biting when a simple growl will do.
Stop to lie on your back on the grass.
Drink lots of water and lay under a shady tree on hot days.
Show when you're happy, let those who made you that way know it!

Forgive those who scold you and ... show them you love them.

Delight in the simple joy of a long walk.
Eat with gusto and enthusiasm.

Stop when you have had enough.
Be loyal and never betray a friend.
Never pretend to be something you're not.
Never give up - if something you want is buried, dig until you find it.
And MOST of all... When someone is having a bad day,

Be silent, sit close by and let them know you love them.

Dog food

My puppy is very pretentious to food. Chayenne only likes Purina Proplan and Royal Canin, dry food and wet food.

PRO PLAN PUPPY SMALL CHICKEN & RICE
Specially formulated for small puppies with an adult weight of 10kg or less.

PRO PLAN Puppy Small Breed is made with quality chicken as the first ingredient and highly digestible rice. It's specially developed to provide complete and balanced nutrition with high levels of protein, fat and B vitamins to meet the specific energy needs of small breeds. Its highly palatable coating and adapted nutrition will satisfy even the most difficult small breed puppies.

Developed with OptiStart, PRO PLAN Puppy Small Breed provides everything your puppy needs for a strong immune system, healthy skin and coat and high energy levels. The optimal start for a lifetime of natural protection.
Daily Feeding Recommendation (g/day)

For puppies less than 3 months of age, divide the recommended daily amount of PRO PLAN Puppy into 3-4 meals moistened. After 3 months of age gradually reduce moistening. The recommended daily amounts should be adjusted according to weather conditions (more will be consumed in cold weather if the dog lives outside), the animal's level of activity and its physical condition. Clean, fresh water should be available at all times.

* OPTI TASTE: highly palatable coating to satisfy the most difficult small breed puppies
* High quality chicken and rice as the main ingredients
* Contains DHA, an omega-3 fatty acid naturally found in mother's milk, proven to improve vision and brain development.
* Natural antibodies from milk proven to increase immune response by 50%*
* Natural antibodies also encourage the balance between the good and bad bacteria in the digestive tract to help protect his delicate digestive system
* Optimal levels of calcium, phosphorus for strong bones and teeth
* High quality protein, omega 3 & 6 fatty acids, vitamins and minerals to help build a strong and healthy skin and coat to shield him from environmental challenges

The first operation

‘Cherry eye’, an everted (rolled out) 3rd eyelid with the gland underneath exposed. This occurs usually secondary to loose eyelids and inflammation of the eye. It is usually seen over 6 weeks and under 6 months of age. Low incidence as most Frenchies have tight eyelids.
I was so scared when I saw that awful gland out of my puppy's left eye, but the vet told me that it's a very simple operation. First I hoped that it will retreat itself and I put cold compresses on the eye. Indeed it did retreat, but after a couple of days the gland rolled out again. So we went to the vet's surgery room. The operation took about 15 minutes. The vet extracted the gland and my puppy looked normal again.
Another worry I had bacause the vet put Chayenne under anesthetic during the operation. I know that the French bulldog ia a bad candidate for anaesthesia because The French bulldog has a flat face, short muzzle and a condensed breathing system; it is this breathing system that gives the breed its commonly known snuffles, sniffles and snorting noises. But in a few hours Chayenne was again lively and happy. Since then she had no other medical problems and I hope she'll never have any.

Babies

These are my two babies. Maybe some will think I exaggerate calling a puppy my baby, but I bought Chayenne after lots and lots of discussions with all kind of people who were trying to convince me to have another baby, a sister for my son. All these people told me that my son needs to have a companion, someone to play with. So I thought I don't want to have another baby, not any time soon, because I still feel the effects of the Caesarean operation. But a French Bulldog will be the perfect companion for my son. And she is. My son, Andrii, and Chayenne, are very good friends and they love staying together as much time as possible.

Welcome home Chayenne!

I brought my beautiful puppy home on the 16th of June. The breeder that sold her to me brought her from Basarabia. It was a very hot day and the puppy was all flabby and tired. I was kind of skeptical because I thought she was sick. When we arrived home I gave her water and puppy food but she threw up cause she was not used to dog food so I gave her milk and in no time she was all joyful and naughty. We named her Chayenne and she is 15 weeks old now. Chayenne is a very smart dog and it was no trouble for us to teach her to sleep in her couch or to go out. She also knows "sit" and "give me a kiss". She is also a very good companion for our son, Andrii, who's 8 months old.We love her very much and she's part of our family.

Health Conditions in French Bulldogs

French Bulldogs are most definitely adorable. Their flat little faces, stubby bodies, bat ears and short backs all combine to make for an adorable package, yet they also combine to produce conditions which make French Bulldogs prone to some rather alarming health conditions. Even the most conscientious breeder, using only the most thoroughly screened dogs, can still occasionally produce afflicted dogs. This is a fact which anyone considering the purchase of a Frenchie needs to be aware of.
Frenchies are a Brachycephalic breed - a fancy word which basically means dogs with short muzzles, flat faces and condensed breathing systems. This is what's responsible for the adorable snorting and snuffling sounds your Frenchie makes - but it's also a serious matter for your dog's health. They also combine to make anesthetic a serious matter for the breed. Anesthetic should only ever be administered for the most critical of procedures - no 'putting under' for simple nail clippings, please. Isoflourine is the most popular type of anesthesia, for various reasons, but this is a topic best discussed with your Veterinarian.
The shorter breathing system of the French Bulldog is also what puts them at such very strong risk for heat stroke. Shorter airway=less possibility of cooling the air which the dogs draws into its body. Never, EVER underestimate your dog's susceptibility to heat stroke. Limit their exposure to temperatures which you might personally find only mildly hot, be conscious of your dog's proximity to hot pavement, NEVER leave your Frenchie in a locked car in even warm weather, and always allow them lots of access to fresh water, shade, and cool areas to escape from heat. Be alert, and be prepared with the things you need to save your dog's life.
French Bulldogs can also be prone to:Hypothyroid, eye conditions and heart conditions.

Dogs & children

Living with a dog can be beneficial to children. Dogs can enhance children’s self-esteem, teach them responsibility and help them to learn empathy. However, children and dogs may not always automatically start off with a wonderful relationship. Parents must be willing to teach the dog and the child acceptable limits of behavior in order to make their interactions pleasant and safe.
Many people have a warm and fuzzy image of a puppy and a child growing up together. If you have a young child and are thinking of adopting a puppy (less than 1 year old), there are a few things you need to consider. Puppies require a lot of time, patience, training and supervision. They also require socialization in order to become well-adjusted adult dogs. This means they need to be taken places and exposed to new things and new people. If you have a young child who already requires a lot of care and time, you should ask yourself if you will you have enough time to care for a puppy as well. Puppies, because they’re babies, are fragile creatures. A puppy may become frightened, or even injured, by a well-meaning, curious child who wants to constantly pick him up, hug him or explore his body by pulling on his tail or ears.
Remember, children should never be left alone with a dog or puppy without adult supervision.
Dogs must know and respect the home's hierarchy (like in a pack). First are the parents, then the children and finally the dog.

The beginning

First of all I have to tell you why I chose a French bulldog. I fell in love with French bulldogs and Boston terriers a few years ago when I saw a video on The Planet's Funniest Animals.

Now I have a 8 months old son and I thought it would be nice for him to have a play mate. I wanted a small or medium dog, friendly, good with children and funny. And I started looking for a French Bulldog (I'm from Romania and French Bulldogs and Boston Terriers are quite rare in my country). I posted lots of notices asking for a French Bulldog everywhere in the country. And finally, on the 15th of June a very nice lady called me and told me she can bring me a 7 weeks old puppy. And this is the beginning...on the 16th of June we brought a very beautiful French bulldog puppy home. Her name is Chayenne.

French Bulldog

The French Bulldog is a dog breed that originated from a group of English bulldog fanciers who were not interested in the dog-fighting realm. The English artisans, particularly lacemakers, breed a small bulldog that would weigh at least 16 lbs but no more than 28 lbs. As the Industrial Revolution grew in England, the lacemakers and other artisans took their skills and small dogs to France where they could continue to ply their trade. The small bulldog earned quite a following in France and by the late 1800s they were known as French Bulldogs. When wealthy Americans traveled to Paris they were very taken with the little Frenchie and imported them to the United States. The breed was first exhibited at the Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show in 1896.
French Bulldogs are a compact, muscular dog with a smooth coat, snub nose and solid bone. Their physical appearance is characterized by naturally occurring 'bat ears' that are wide at the base and rounded on the top. Their tails are naturally short, not cropped, straight or screwed but not curly.

Under the American Kennel Club and Canadian Kennel Club standards, weight is not to exceed 28 pounds (13 kg). In general, bitches range in weight between 16 and 24 pounds, with dogs between 20 and 28 pounds. The FCI does not set a hard and fast weight limit, simply stating 'The weight must not be below 8 kg nor over 14 kg for a bulldog in good condition, size being in proportion with the weight'.
The French Bulldog is a gentle breed that typically has a happy-go-lucky attitude. Like many other companion dog breeds they require close contact with humans. They have fairly minimal exercise needs, but do require at least regular daily walks. Sedentary Frenchies can tend to become obese. Their calm nature makes them excellent choices for apartment dwellers, as does their usually sensible attitude towards barking. As flat faced breed, it is essential that owners understand that French Bulldogs cannot live outdoors. Their bulk and their compromised breathing system makes it impossible for them to regulate their temperature efficiently. In addition, frenchies are top heavy and thus cannot swim. Be cautious when exercising your Frenchie during hot or humid weather, as well.

French Bulldogs can play too roughly for some smaller children, and should be monitored at all times during play. As well, children should be cautioned not to pick French Bulldogs up, as their size can mask how truly heavy they actually are.

French Bulldogs are essentially a bull and terrier breed, and as such, it is not surprising to learn that canine aggression can sometimes occur. Generally, this takes the form of same sex aggression, with the bitches being the most culpable in this respect. Owners considering adding a second dog to their household are usually cautioned to choose one of the opposite sex. Spaying or neutering can do much to curb aggressive tendencies before they begin. The French Bulldog energy level can range from hyperactive and energetic to relaxed and laid back.

French Bulldogs can be stubborn, and early and consistent obedience training is highly recommended. Housebreaking can be problematic, and crate training is generally the only efficient method to ensure your carpeting isn't ruined for life.

In general, Frenchies are amiable, good natured, playful dogs, and make excellent companions for families, single persons and the elderly.