Posts Tagged ‘cross’
Designer Dogs
Posted on: January 29, 2011
By Eric Hartwell
Paris Hilton’s Chihuahua ‘Tinkerbell’ may be solely responsible for bringing the term ‘toy dog’ to the attention of the world and the fascination with using one’s dog as an accessory to its owner’s outfit. Designers like Gucci and Burberry who have created haute couture fashion for dogs and high price tags for consumers exemplify the obsession with how a dog’s breed and style reflects upon an owner. The trend with designer dogs does not end there. In some of the latest breeding technology, dogs have been genetically created and crossbred for optimal behavior and looks. The Labradoodle, Yorkipoo, cockapoo and Schnoodle are the hottest dog breeds to walk the streets of 5th avenue, with or without high heels and sitting in designer handbags.
The Labradoodle, a cross between a Labrador retriever and a poodle, was created to combine the intelligence, dainty bone structure, formal nature and allergy-and asthma-friendly, non-shedding aspects of the poodle with the favorable, fun-loving, fidelity of a lab. This mix has taken the dog world by storm with dog owners willing to shell out $2,500 USD for one of these animals. In the 1970’s, the Labradoodle was originally crossbred in Australia after requests for a low-allergy guide dog was needed for individuals with special needs, while providing a low-key and amiable companion. The popularity of Labradoodles has taken off wildly and has become the must-have dog in certain social circles.
Editor-in-Chief Allan Reznik of Dog Fancy and Dog World fame notes, “It’s indicative of a society that loves labels. Having a dog that is part spaniel and part poodle isn’t enough–it has to be a cockapoo.”
Many of these newly created hybrid dogs include the genes of a poodle to make new inventive breeds that don’t shed their fur. Yorkipoos, cockapoos and schnoodles are poodles mixed with Yorkshire terriers, cocker spaniels and Schnauzers, respectively. These hybrids do not always create a healthier dog than purebreds, which are notorious for their health problems due to inbreeding. This current craze of designer dog breeding has the possibility of going too far, bringing up issues of genetic selection and the natural order of things. But if there is demand, then supply will be provided and many amateur breeders are taking a crack at homegrown hybrids with some detrimental results. If a breeder were to match a Pug with a Pekingese the resulting breed could create a dog with eyes falling out of its head, as both breeds have exaggerated eyes and eye sockets as distinguishing traits in each breed. Smart genetic engineering on the part of breeders is imperative to creating a healthy, happy and hybrid dog of the future.
Toy dogs, like Tinkerbell of Paris Hilton fame, are also genetically created dogs and were developed specifically to be cute and charismatic companions. In our image-conscious and name brand consumer world, this writer harkens to say ‘what will they think of next?’ cross breeding elephants and monkeys, or chipmunks with snakes to create the perfect, over-the-top must-have animal of tomorrow? I’d say, they are barking up the wrong tree. Until genetic scientists create a dog that can toilet-train itself and use a human bathroom, it’s still a dog’s life for owners and mutts alike.
About the Author: Eric Hartwell is involved in The World’s Best Home Page – visit to share opinions on pet care.
Source: www.isnare.com
Permanent Link: http://www.isnare.com/?aid=140761&ca=Pets
Cyclists And Dogs
Posted on: January 29, 2011
By Charles Jackson
Exploring new territory on your bicycle can be hazardous when you cross into dog territory.
Like other animals, dogs mark their own territory and do not take kindly to cyclists, motorists, joggers or other intruders. If you enter a dog’s personal space, be prepared for the dog to enter attack mode. Snarls and furious barking will warn you, and if you don’t leave immediately, the dog can launch an attack. This involves snapping at your heels and an attempt to bring you down. A dog attack can throw any cyclist off balance, and cause serious injuries. Knowing how to deal with dog attacks is an important safeguard to cycling. Children or inexperienced cyclists and dogs just don’t mix, and these riders should never be allowed to ride where dog attacks can occur.
Dogs tend to attack a cyclist from the rear, usually from the hindquarter direction. However, not all dogs pursue their victims viciously. You can determine whether or not the dog has serious intentions to harm you by noting the gait of the dog. If the dog feels threatened, he will chase faster than usual. His tail will point downward, with mouth open and ears cocked.
If you see a dog approaching from any direction, be sure to guard the front wheel of your bicycle. If the dog suddenly lunges in front of you, it can cause a collision and a fall. Move to the farthest end of the road, and quickly ride away.
Letting out a load-throated yell is another way to deal with an angry dog. This tactic can momentarily surprise the dog and cause him to hesitate. If successful, use the extra seconds and ride away as fast as possible. However if the dog is still in attack mode, ball up your fists and shout angrily. Most dogs are afraid of human violence and may not chase after someone who poses an apparent threat.
It’s important to realize that you can’t always outrun a dog. Bumpy roads or steep tracks can cause a cyclist to make a particularly slow getaway. This is where a can of pepper spray can come in handy. The spray stings the nose and eyes of the dog, and stops him temporarily without causing any harm.
If all else fails, call out for help. If the dog is serious in his attack, protect yourself by placing the bicycle in between you the dog. Don’t try to kick the dog, as this may make you lose your balance. If you are attacked or are bitten seek medical aid immediately, report the incident to the police and lodge a complaint against the owners. The dog will need to be quarantined to verify if it is rabid.
Cyclists and dogs don’t always mix. Be prepared and know how to react if you happen to cross a territorial dog.
About the Author: Charles Jackson is a writer for several well-known web sites, on recreation tips and recreation and sports topics.
Source: www.isnare.com
Permanent Link: http://www.isnare.com/?aid=118563&ca=Recreation
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