The Fabulous Weinmaraners

By: Ed Gonzalez

This dog was originally known as the weimer pointerand it's name came from the court that sponsored it. It was selectively bred and comes from selective breeding of other german hunting dog breeds.. They say it is a descendant of the bloodhounds. It was purposely used to hunt wolves, deer and bear. The weimaraner later became a personal hunting companion, The dog is so exceptional because it has great speed, brave and enduring dog when it is hunting.. This kind of dog is exceptional when it comes to all sorts of sports hunting. It is the type of breed that will always stay this way..

The Weinmaraner is a a stunning type of dog because it is big, exudes self confidence, smart and it has a sensitive nose. This dog is stubborn and has it's own mind. The owner must have special talents and must be able to train this dog . This dog will always try to test your patience on how much it can get way with anything because it has an irresistible charm. It will cause the owner difficulty for the owner to remain firm, especially when the dog has puppies. If you want to buy these dogs and you can not train them, you must hire a trainer to do so,. They must be trained in obedience and subordination training at once.

Any owner will not be able to stand an Weinmaraner. That misbehaves. It will act as it is the boss and the owners are it's followers. A well trained Weinmaraner will enrich the life of the entire family. They will love and defend them. They are a very happy and attentive companion. This dog is so humorous and they will surely make you laugh. It's a great playmate for children because it likes moving around and chasing balls. They won't mind if children put lego pieces on their ears. They need to be close to it's master and should not live in a kennel.

If these dogs are males, they will have heights from 23 – 28 inches and the females will have heights from 22 – 26 inches. The males will weigh 84 pounds:; while the females will weigh at least 70 pounds.. They have short, fine, sleek and thick coats and there is the long variety too. Their colors are mouse gray, silver gray or fawn gray. They don't need to be groomed regularly but these dogs require extensive exercises. They are more suitable for urban living. Dogs of this kind are susceptible to allergies and sometimes dysplasia.

Weinmaraners are very good watchdogs or guard dogs. Surely these dogs will keep your homes safe from individuals who have tendencies of being aggressive. They need to go for long walks because they are very active .

The Amiable Bullmastiffs

By: Ed Gonzalez

The Bullmastiffs originated in England and history claims they appeared around the 1860's. These massive dogs were bred to keep these estates free from illegal hunters who would try to steal plants, animals and game preserves. Gameskeepers wanted a dog that can track down these illegal hunters in a serene manner. It is a superb breed because it can go through short distance in a fast way. Dogs belonging to this breed will pin down and hold these unwanted hunters without beating them up. The foundation used in creating these sterling breed was 60% mastiff and 40% bulldog. It was meant to be quicker and more combative than the the mastiff plus larger and not more violent than the bulldog.

The Bullmastiffs are brave and they do have a lot of confidence in themselves. These are kindhearted dogs and they will adapt well with families. They are known to be good guard dogs for your homes although they seldomly bark. They have their own way of thinking and they might not respond to obedience training. One thing great about these dogs is that they do not need much training or exercise nor grooming. These dogs can live joyfully in apartments or homes.

Bullmastiffs are well proportioned, having tremendous strength, a lot of staying power, always on guard and sturdily built. They are very active dogs. Their sizes range from 25 to 27 inches and they do weigh 110 to 130 pounds. Dogs who are within these limits have more value. The length from the tips of their breastbones to the rear of their thighs goes beyond the height slightly and it withers to the ground. The ultimate result of these descriptions are square like appearances.

They are very intensed, intelligent and always on their guard. The eyes are dark and the sizes are medium. Their ears are v – shaped and they are rather near their cheeks. They are set on high and wide, It is at level with the posterior back portion of their heads. With this description, it does give a square like appearance of their skulls. Their heads are darker in appearances than their bodies and the sizes are medium. The muzzles of these breeds are wide and deep. It's length when compared to their heads are almost like 1 is to 3. They do have a lack of foreface with their nostrils set above their the top of their muzzles. It is a complete reversal of that of the bulldogs and it doe not look nice, It is is better for the Bullmastiffs to have dark muzzles. They have black noses with nostrils that are big and broad. Their upper lips are not too pendulous. Their bites are slightly misplaced or at level. The teeth of these dogs are big and are set wide apart from each other. Their necks are so muscular, medium in length plus having a slight arch to it and the circumferences are almost equal. They have a compact body. Their chests are broad and deep. The ribs of the Bullmastiffs are sprung up and are well settled down between the forelegs of these dogs They have short backs which are impressive looking cause it makes these dogs looked balanced. They have muscular hips that are wide and a bit arched and their flanks are even. They have high tails that look strong at the root and decreases as it reaches the hocks ( joints between the tarsal and tibia bones of the dogs ). Tails can be curved or straight

The Bullmastiff shoulders are muscular and it has a slight slope. They have nicely boned forelegs which are straight and well formed elbows that are neither in or out. Their pasterns ( part of the foot ) are straight. They do possess medium sized feet with rounded toes that are well arched. The pads of these dogs are burly and rugged. Their nails are black. Dogs of these kinds have  hindquarters that are wide and muscular. Their second thighs are well cultivated, meaning it has power. It does not look awkward. They have moderate angulations at the hocks. If they have cowhocks and splay feet, these are critical faults. Their coats sre short but thick therefore giving the dogs very good protection. The coats are colored light brown, red or brindle. They do have small white spots on their chests. If they do have white markings, these are considered serious faults. These dogs move in a straight manner. Their temperament is courageous with oozing belief in itself but easy to handle. These dogs can be easily relied upon. Their intelligence is incredible and they like to please their owners.

The Sparkling Looking Bichon Frise

By: Ed Gonzalez

The Bichon Frise breed started came into existence in the middle ages and this goes way back to the 13^th century. They may have originated somewhere in the Mediterranean or maybe France. These dogs are said to be the results of combined mixed breed crossings of spaniels and poodles. These dogs were traded by Spanish sailors and these dogs became the favorites of the French Royal Courts during in the16^th century. At that time they were used as circus performers Now, they are well known as companion and show dogs.

These dogs ae small but so sturdy These dogs are well trimmed and they do manifest a round body appearance. Their heads are a bit rounded. They have small muzzles that are not pointed. They have rounded black or brown eyes. Their ears appear to be dropping downwards and are surrounded by their long hair. The teeth of these dogs are enclosed together in scissor like bites. They have legs that are erect and fairly boned. Claws that are not touching the ground can be taken out. Their tails do go over their backs. They have double layered coats that are quite tender. The outer coats are less refined and rippled as compared to their tender but thick undercoats. Their coat colors are real white, gray, cream and yellowish pink. One feature of these dogs is that they have hypo allergrnic coats In show competitions , white colored bichon frises are a favorites . These dogs must be clipped equally, having the same lengths all over their bodies. They could have appearances like poodles or they can have the long puffed up look. The surrounding areas of their feet and muzzles must be clipped.

The Bichon Frises are flurry small dogs that like to be around people. These dogs are warmhearted, aggressive, full of enthusiasm and they are not yappers. They are friendly and loving dogs. Dogs of this breed need to be with so that they will experience contentment. These dogs like to go on trips with their owners. They are smart and are rather easy to train. Because these dogs are friendly, they will do well in the company of other dogs and pets in the house. They are playful and are surely good playmates for children. Bichon Frises are outstanding watchdogs and they can do a lot of tricks for their owners.. They are very competitive but they are so obedient. These dogs must be taught how to follow orders and they must know what they can and cannot do.

They must do daily walks with their owners. Owners must act as masters. Their dogs must walk by their sides or their owners must be ahead of them. These dogs must be leashed when they are walking. These dogs must never feel like they are the masters because it can create behavioral problems that will be hard to deal with later on. Owners must be in control and confident when they are with their dogs. Having their dogs go through daily walks will make them loyal dogs.

These dogs will grow as much 9 – 12 inches in height and they will weigh as much 7 – 12 pounds. They will live for as long as 15 years.

They are good dogs for apartment living but owners must see to it that they get enough exercise. They are so mobile when they are indoors and they do not need to roam around in yards. If owners have yards, they will also roami around. Make sure that your fences are well built because dogs of these types are quite small and they can just slip out unnoticed.

These dogs are liable to have ear duct problems, skin problems and eye cataracts. Though these dogs do not shed, their coats will need to be brushed every week and they must have their dogs groomed by professional groomers once every five weeks.

When these dogs are healthy, they will keep you truly entertained.

The Alluring Australian Terriers

By: Ed Gonzalez

The Australian Terriers came into existence around the 19^th century . This is the only other terrier aside from the schnauzer that did not originate from England. In the early days they were kept in ships to keep vermin plus other small insects and animals in check. They were then considered good watch dogs. They are considered to be very delightful. Aussie dog owners will never switch to any other pet dogs. The reason for this is that they are quite dedicated to their owners and their household members. Having two Australian male terriers living together can cause problems and it is not reasonable They will not be able to live in peace.

Australian Terriers are good companion dogs for older people. They are exceptional pet dogs for children. Dogs of this type must be properly supervised if they are around younger children, like toddlers. They are really fit for city and country living. Owners must make sure that there are sufficient areas wherein their pet dogs can do their exercises. Owners must never let their dogs out sight. These dogs have superior hunting skills and their minds are programmed for this. Australian Terriers will not look around and they will just go forth blindful and unmindful crossing the road even if if there is traffic . Be careful and make sure you are in control by having them leashed. If not the safest way is to carry them.

The Australian Terriers are strong and very active small dogs. They are so brave just like so many of the bigger dogs. It has boundless energy plus they are very kind and tender pet dogs. Their intelligence is quite extraordinary. These pet dogs are very receptive and will protect their owners from any kind of danger. Australian Terriers are always aware of things that are happening around them. One of their outstanding characters iis that they are so entertaining and endearing small dogs. They are also confident, inquisitive and energetic creatures. Their sharp hearing and eyesight makes them superlative watchdogs. These are dogs who want to satisfy their owners. This kind of breed do not snap but they are known to bark. These dogs must be taught to stay still and stop. This can be achieved by sounding the first alarm. Owners can achieve this by training them. Dogs of this breed must not act as the leader when they are with children or they might snap at them., Children must learn to be the leaders and not followers. Owners must treat their pet dogs kindly. These dogs are friendly towards other dogs but they chase smaller animals when they are out the house. Sometimes, these pet dogs can be rather stubborn and they will do only what they want. To deal with this, owners must set their own rules. Their pet dogs must be trained to obey orders and they will follow quite easily.

Their height is around 10 – 11 inches starting from their shoulders, Their weight must be at least be 14 – 16 pounds. Their body coats are 2 to 2 ½ inches in length.

Take care of them and they will always display their affection towards their owners. These dogs arevery obedient dogs and are so protective of their owners. This is what makes them so extraordinary loving dogs.

Dog Name Origins and Trivia Part 2

Chihuahua. This dog was named after the Mexican state, Chihuahua. The dog was also called Chihuuhenos. When some were brought to Europe, they would sit on the owner’s lap to keep the person warm, especially in big homes and castles. 

The artist Botticelli painted a Chihuahua in the Sistine chapel (above).

The Chow Chow is from China and its name “songshi quan” means Puffy Lion Dog. The chow likes feet, and will be happy to sit on your feet to keep them warm and kiss them. Chow Chows also have a blue tongue.

Cocker Spaniels are so called because they were used to hunt Woodcock birds. It is believed these dogs came from Spain.

Cocker Spaniels tend to be more interested in people than dogs. This is the potential girlfriend we found for Remington Steal Your Heart. But it turns out, she might like Remington’s human better…anyway, if she barks Tagalog the moment of serendipity will have no comprehension….

Dalmatians are named after Dalmatia, a region in Croatia. They are great if you are allergic to dogs because they won’t trigger symptoms. These dogs are great in hunting rats and pests, which is why in London they were kept in stables and firehouses.

Golden Retrievers have a soft mouth, which made them perfect for retrieving game undamaged. They are colored in varied tones of gold. They love water. They can be trained as hearing dogs for the deaf, guide dogs for the blind, search and rescue dogs and illegal drug detectors. They have a gentle temperament. In a dog show, this Golden Retriever seemed to take a liking to my hubby Ed.

The Jack Russell was named in the 18^th century by a parson, Reverend John Russell, who liked to hunt. After World War II, there was less need for hunting dogs, and they became family dogs.

One famous Jack Russell is Nipper, who was the inspiration for the classic painting of a dog looking into a phonograph. The painting was later renamed His Master’s Voice and was used by recording countries including RCA, EMI and The Gramophone Company. 

The painting was done by Englishman Francis Barraud and it was purchased by Berliner to become a trademark on Victor record catalogues. 

Llhasa apso- This dog was named after Llhasa, the capital city of Tibet. Apso means bearded. Llhasa Apsos stayed in Buddhist monasteries as guard dogs.

This is the Llhasa apso with untrimmed but neatly combed hair. When Llhasas are happy they rub their head on their owners or sit at their owner’s feet.

Spiderman’s Aunt May owned a Llhasa Apso named Ms. Lion.

 Pekingese were only allowed to be kept in the Chinese Imperial court, and its name comes from the city Peking, which is the former name of China’s capital city, Beijing. If anyone stole a Pekingese, the penalty was death. I fell in love with this Pekingese puppy at a dog show, but it’s not mine.

 Bulldog – The bulldog got its name because it was used in England to bait bulls. The game involved tethering a bull, placing two bulldogs on the bull’s back, and people would gamble on which dog would succeed in biting the bull’s nose and pinning it to the ground. A lot of bull dogs died in this way. In the 1500s they were spelled Bolddogge and bondogge. Later the game became illegal. Today, bulldogs are docile and good with children. They are great apartment dogs as they don’t need much exercise. They would rather sleep on your lap than run after a ball.

Of course, I must add our beloved Askal. This is my askal, Winniechurchill. The name Askal comes from the Tagalog words, Asong Kalye and refers to street dogs with no owners. Askals are essentially mongrels. In the provinces, farmers keep them as guard dogs. In the city, I noticed that a lot of askals get fed by friendly people. When I had my car washed, two workers were eating their lunch but gave some of their food to an askal hanging about. The maid who works in the house next door, Brenda, goes out on her bike every afternoon with food to feed askals and pusakals (street cats). Some people tried to raise the dignity of askals by naming them Aspins, or Filipino dogs. But I like the sound of Askals, and we have a great soccer team, Azkals which has been winning a lot of games lately. So it seems now, that being called Askal is a good thingJ 

The Shar Pei is from China and its Cantonese name, sa peih means “sand skin.”  I personally am inspired by the Shar Pei because it has lots of wrinkles which work to its advantage. If a dog tries to bite it, the internal organs are protected because the dog will bite the wrinkles and the Shar Pei is able to strike back. A study in the University of Washington, Seattle said the enzyme of the Shar Pei is a key component of skin. I am no longer afraid of the wrinkles developing on my face. They have served the Shar Pei well. 

What’s in a name

 By Mona Sabalones Gonzalez

I looked up some names of dogs and found their origins. Here are some:

 Shih-Tzu – Chinese for “Lion Dog” (pronounced Shirr-dze). Another version, “XiShi quan” refers to the most beautiful woman in legendary ancient China.

Pug – from the Latin word, “Pugness” meaning fist.

Beagle – from the French term “be’guele” because the dog bays when chasing game during hunting.

Terrier – from the French word “terre” meaning earth. The terrier dog burrows during hunting to unearth an animal hiding underground. Mocha Barney, my wire haired dachsund, is arguably a terrier because it digs.

Schnauzer – German “schnauzen” which means “to snarl.”

Huskies – A derivation from “Esky” which is short for Eskimos, who raise them as sled dogs.

Poodle – surprisingly, this dog is not French but German. It comes from the Low German word “pudelen,” meaning to “splash around.” 

Kat and Dog playing

Kat and Mocha like to do this.