Dogs Articles

Article / Updated 11-08-2022

Listen to the article:Download audio Some breeders have begun producing "Teacup" Yorkies that weigh 2 to 3 pounds. Compared to true Yorkshire Terriers, which weigh in at about 7 pounds, Teacup Yorkies are truly tiny. Before considering purchasing one, you need to be aware of some characteristics of Teacup Yorkies. Teacup Yorkies aren't true Yorkshire Terriers. They can also require specialized medical care. Now there's nothing wrong with having a smaller Yorkie, as long as the breeder was using ethical breeding practices. Periodically, and for no apparent reason at all, some dogs are born very small; and they steal your heart because they're so in need of love and care. Some unscrupulous and unethical breeders, however, deliberately try to produce these little dogs and call them “Teacup” Yorkies, leading unwitting buyers to believe that Teacups are an actual variety of the Yorkshire Terrier breed. They're not. But be wary of any breeder who advertises or supposedly “specializes” in Teacup Yorkies. Here's why: There's no such thing as a Teacup Yorkie. A Teacup Yorkie isn't an officially recognized by the AKC. It is simply too small to be a true Yorkshire Terrier. Anyone who tells you (or implies) otherwise either doesn't know what she's talking about or is lying. A Yorkie who weighs 3 pounds or less often requires special care. Extra-small Yorkies are more prone to serious health problems and birth defects (like portosystemic shunt or small kidneys — which you won't know about until much later). Although extra-small Yorkies are occasionally born, no responsible breeder breeds for this trait. Because the breed standard is for 4 to 7 pound dogs, responsible breeders should only breed dogs that fall within this weight range. Breeding very small dogs is not safe for the mothers. Small size does not make these dogs more valuable. A small Yorkie shouldn't cost more than a healthy, normal-sized one. In fact, it should cost less because it is not up to the breed standard. They should also only be sold after being neutered or spayed.

Cheat Sheet / Updated 04-27-2022

Potty-training your puppy or adult dog doesn’t just prevent canine bathroom accidents in your house; housetraining also helps you make sure your dog stays healthy. With the right tools and some potty-training tips and tricks, you and your pup can set the stage for a long and happy life together.

Cheat Sheet / Updated 04-27-2022

Recognizing why and how your dog behaves can help you to take on the role as pack leader to give your dog the cues, guidance, and consistency she needs to shape and develop good behaviors. Understanding your dog's body language and the proper methods of discipline, along with using basic, yet helpful, commands will go a long way in developing your pooch into a well-behaved companion.

Cheat Sheet / Updated 04-26-2022

Picking the perfect Yorkshire terrier starts with purchasing the dog from a reputable breeder and looking for the characteristics that define the breed standard. Puppy-proofing your home and keeping animal emergency phone numbers handy will keep your Yorkshire terrier safe and happy.

Cheat Sheet / Updated 04-26-2022

Prepare your home for your shih tzu’s arrival by purchasing some essential (and fun!) dog supplies. Keep your shih tzu happy and healthy by having emergency contact numbers handy and feeding your dog healthy treats in moderation.

Cheat Sheet / Updated 04-26-2022

Despite their bad reputation, pit bulls (American pit bull terriers and Staffordshire terriers) are a lovable breed that you’ll want to cherish and keep healthy for a long canine life. Doing regular health checks keeps you attuned to your dog’s condition, and if there is an emergency, knowing what to do can give you a hand in potentially saving your dog’s life.

Cheat Sheet / Updated 04-20-2022

Before bringing home your adorable Golden Retriever, take steps to dog-proof your house and surrounding areas. Know the signs of a serious medical problem or pet emergency, so you can contact your veterinarian and, if needed, give the right amount of pet safe medications to your Golden Retriever.

Article / Updated 04-14-2022

Yes, dog training is based on common sense. However, you do need to keep in mind a few specific guidelines — the dos and don’ts — to make sure that you’re successful and fostering a healthy relationship with your dog. The following sections are here to help get you started. Dos Do be nice to your dog every time he comes to you (even if he’s just coming back from an unexpected romp around the neighborhood). Do get into the habit of giving a command only once. If your dog doesn’t respond to a command you have taught her, reinforce the command. Do use your dog’s name to get her attention, and then tell her what you want her to do. Do eliminate the word “no” from your training vocabulary. Do use a normal tone of voice when you give a command. Your dog’s hearing is quite acute. Do be consistent in your actions and expectations. Do provide an outlet for your dog’s energies. Do keep your dog mentally stimulated by training him. Do understand that your dog is a social animal. Train him so he can be a part of the family. Do socialize your dog with people and other dogs. Do become your dog’s teacher. Do make learning fun for your dog. Do consistently reward with praise the correct behaviors. Do spend plenty of time with your dog and give her lots of exercise. Do keep trying, and your dog will reward you by getting the message. Do get outside help when you get stuck. Don’ts Don’t do anything your dog perceives as unpleasant when she comes to you. Don’t nag your dog by repeating commands — nagging teaches him to ignore you. Don’t use your dog’s name and then expect him to read your mind as to what you want. Don’t expect your dog to know what the word “no” means. Don’t yell at your dog. She’s not deaf. Raising your voice doesn’t improve understanding. Don’t confuse your dog with unrealistic expectations. Don’t try to suppress behaviors that need an outlet. Don’t let your dog stagnate. Don’t lock up your dog or put her out because you haven’t trained her to behave. Don’t isolate your dog — he’s a social animal. Don’t expect your dog to obey a command you haven’t taught him. Don’t get too serious in your training. Don’t reward undesired behaviors. Don’t make your dog neurotic by neglecting her. Don’t give up when the going gets tough; keep trying. Don’t blame the dog; you are her teacher.

Cheat Sheet / Updated 04-14-2022

Keeping your dachshund safe, happy, and healthy requires owning all the necessary pet supplies, finding a good veterinarian, and looking for the warning signs of dachshund back problems.

Cheat Sheet / Updated 04-12-2022

Pomeranians are tiny but sturdy dogs that are friendly and protective. Keep your Pomeranian healthy and looking great by following a grooming routine, knowing the warning signs to call your veterinarian, and removing potentially hazardous items from your household. If you need additional information about Pomeranians (or dogs in general), look to a variety of useful websites for help.