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Most dog breeds possess a breed specific health problem usually to do with the way their bodies are designed. The Dachshund suffers from back problems due to its low set back and the short-necked breeds such as the Bulldog can be prone to breathing difficulties.

The Labrador Retriever is no exception to the rule and probably the most common health issue this dog encounters is hip dysplasia. Canine hip dysplasia is an issue for many dog breeds. The problem lies in the dog’s hips basically there is a problem when the joints that normally make the hip work effectively become loose.

Labrador Retriever information pertaining to the dog’s health will all mention hip dysplasia. Basically the femur does not sit snugly within the pelvic socket as it once used to, the condition can vary considerably from dog to dog. It could be deemed as very mild right through to the other end of the spectrum and be very serious.

Occasionally a Labrador Retriever may have hip dysplasia but not really display any symptoms for awhile, then as time goes by the dog may start to show signs of arthritis. A dog might show difficulty in rising from a sleeping position and they may ‘telegraph’ their legs, meaning that they will hold the affected limb out straight. This will be done in an effort to ease the discomfort felt in the limb. Information on Labrador Retrievers very often touches on the subject of hip dysplasia.

Generally speaking hip dysplasia is an inherited health problem for dogs however the problem can be encountered for other reasons. Younger dogs can also suffer from it especially if they enjoy a life of jumping over fences, walls and other various obstacles. The problem arises in Labrador Retrievers under the age of two years because their actual joints within their hips have not yet developed properly.

When the dog jumps a lot it is literally over stretching its hip joints and they are being worked by the dog way beyond the Labrador Retrievers capability. Generally speaking, and I stress this is only a general observation, the Labrador Retriever will begin to display signs of hip dysplasia prior to it reaching a year old.

The dog may limp every so often or appear stiff when rising. If a dog is affected at a reasonably young age then the chances run high that they will suffer from arthritis when older. A dog’s hips can actually be x-rayed at the age of four months although most vets prefer to leave this until the animal is at least two years of age, this way the Labrador Retriever’s hips are completely developed.

You can request to view a puppy’s registration papers prior to purchasing as these will show that the puppy has been hip scored and graded accordingly. There are treatments available to help dogs suffering from hip dysplasia just simply research some Labrador Retriever information specifically relating to the topic. Just make sure to buy from a breeder who screens their puppies for hip dysplasia and gives a puppy warranty.

Description: The Yorkshire Terrier is a small dog, which is in the toy dog class. This breed is 6-7 inches in height, and weighs approximately seven pounds. This breed has a life expectancy of 12-15 years. The Yorkshire terrier has a small head, that is flat on top, and they have a medium-sized muzzle, that is not long. Their teeth meet in a scissor or level bite, and can be undershot. They have a black nose. This breed has dark eyes, which are medium in size and not very prominent. Their eye rims are dark. The Yorkshire Terrier ears are small, erect and are V shaped, that are carried not to far apart. All the legs are straight, and we see round feet with black nails. In some countries, the tail is docked to a medium length, in countries where this is allowed. The Yorkshire Terrier coat is glossy, fine, and silky in texture. The hair on the body is moderately long and should be straight. The hair on the head is long and should be tied up with a bow, or parted in the middle and tied with two bows this allows the dog to see and eat easier. With the Yorkshire Terrier breed, the hair on the muzzle is very long. With the colouring puppies are born black and tan are normally dark body colour, this changes as they grow older. Coat colours come in steal blue and tan, with the body and tail being blue and the rest of the dog is tan.

History: This breed comes from Yorkshire in England and was created by the working man, who wanted a dog that could catch the terrible rats and mice infected the mills and mine shafts. The Yorkshire terrier is not an old breed and came into existence in the 19th century. It is believed it came in part from Scotland’s with the migrating workers, and possibly in its genetic makeup, is the Paisley terrier, Skye Terrier, Dandie Dinmont, Manchester Terrier, Maltese, and the Scottish Terriers, but not the ones we see today. Early in its history, any shape of terrier having a long coat with the blue and tan colouring was classed as a Yorkshire terrier. A lady called Mary Ann Foster, who showed Yorkshire Terrier dogs throughout Great Britain, helped define the type of the Yorkshire terrier. The Yorkshire Terrier breed was also used in ratting competitions; this was a popular sport of the time. This dog, with selective breeding, has gradually miniaturized this breed. As they became smaller the ladies found them to be a fashion extension as they can be neatly be carried in a handbag. The Yorkshire Terrier breed is now a companion dog. This dog was first recognized by the AKC in 1885. The earliest records of the Yorkshire terrier born in the United States are in 1872.

Temperament: The Yorkshire Terrier is a small dog, that is big on personality. Keeping the terrier qualities, this dog enjoys adventures and has lots of energy. This is an exceptionally brave dog and is very clever. The Yorkshire terrier is very affectionate, with their owners, and makes a great companion. Problems can arise if the owner is not the pack leader here we see a dog that becomes aggressive towards strange dogs and small animals, and may also become yappy. The Yorkshire Terrier dog, like all dogs, needs the owner to be the leader. This dog is better with older children, that can show leadership skills and treat the dog as the dog. Small dog syndrome in Yorkshire terriers is to be avoided, as this will make the dog unhappy, and also the owner. If the Yorkshire terrier starts to develop jealousy or becomes over demanding of human attention, then it is wise to think how you are treating the dog to put back the right balance. The Yorkshire terrier is easy to train but can be slightly stubborn, as with all terriers. This breed can be difficult to potty train. The Yorkshire terrier makes an excellent watchdog. The biggest problem Yorkshire terriers can have is if the owner thinks and treats them as a human baby, due to their size. The Yorkshire terrier is a sweet little dog, when the owner understands leadership skills that are gentle. Although the Yorkshire Terrier is a small dog they will still require walking daily. This will help burn up their energy, as this breed has lots to burn off. Dogs that do not have daily walks are more likely to have behavioral problems. A sure sign that your Yorkshire terrier may require more walks is if they are spinning around the house as fast as a bullet. Remember this dog is trainable and simple commands such as heel when out walking are needed. This dog will enjoy a good run in a safe open area off the lead.

Health issues: Some of the Yorkshire Terrier breed are prone to slipped stifle, bronchitis, early tooth decay, delicate digestion, herniated disks, which can course paralysis. This breed can get fractures easily and eye infections can be quite common.

Grooming: Daily grooming is needed with the Yorkshire terrier, due to their silky coat. They have a topknot which is usually tied up. Family pets that are not for showing tend to have their pet coat cut shorter for manageability. Show dogs need hours of care for the show ring and this can be learnt. The Yorkshire Terrier dog will benefit from daily tooth care, cleaning these from an early age will help your pet to know that it is part of the routine.

Living conditions: The Yorkshire terrier is good for apartment life, although this is an active indoor dog, providing they have good daily walks they can manage without a garden.

Description: Here we see two types of Labrador. The American Labrador and the English Labrador, both with different stock blood. With the English Labrador are heavier, thicker and sturdier than we see in the American Labrador, which is taller and thinner. On both there is a double coat, this is smooth, and does not have any waves. This is water resistant coat. Their colours come in solid black, yellow or chocolate. This breed has a broad head. Their teeth meet in a scissor or level bite, we see a wide muzzle. With medium-size eyes that are dark brown, or yellow and Black, or yellow dogs, with hazel or brown in the chocolate colour dogs. Their ears are pendent and hang down. This breed has an otter tail that hangs well and is thick at the base thinning to the end. This breed has webbed feet, that aid in swimming, which is something the Labrador Retriever loves to do. They seem to be able to sniff out the smallest drop of water and get into it. Their height is 22 to 24 inches in the dog and 21 to 23 inches in the bitches. Weight is 60 to 75 pounds for the dog and 55 to 70 for the bitch. They have a slightly longer body in comparison to the tail. Their life expectancy is 10 to 12 years.

History: The Labrador Retriever is one of the top breeds, seen in America today. This dog worked with the fishermen from Newfoundland. Their role was to catch fish that had jumped the nets, when pulling them in. This breed was then sent to England, in 1800 on ships that had come from Labrador. This breed was then crossed with Setters, Spaniels and other retrieving dogs to get the best from all the breeds. As a result we see the Labrador Retriever today. It was called the St. Johns Dogs in its history. Today, we see this dog working at search and rescue, narcotics and other police work. They also excel at, agility, field trials, hunting, tracking, and make a great companion.

Temperament: The Labrador Retriever is a loyal loving and affectionate dog. This is one of the most popular breeds in America. Making a great family pet that is really good with children. This dog is very intelligent and will not play, especially in water. With good reliable temperaments, they crave human contact and good leadership. This breed does well as part of the family and is easily trained. Socialising well as a puppy will help build a well rounded character. Training is important, as they become stronger in adult life. This breed can become destructive, if not given enough exercise, and good leadership from the owner. This dog requires mental and physical exercise daily. Problems can occur, if not enough exercises given with the dog becoming highly strung. The English line of the Labrador retriever is a calmer and more laid-back breed than its American counterpart.

Health issues: The Labrador Retriever breed is prone to hip and elbow dysplasia, eye disorders and PRA.

Grooming: Due to the short smooth coat, grooming a Labrador Retriever is easy and it just needs brushing weekly. Bathing only when really needed is best for this breed. This is an average shedder.

Living conditions: The Labrador Retriever can live in an apartment if they have been given good daily walks and mental exercise. This breed would do well in an average size garden.

Description: With three varieties to choose from, the Dachshund comes in three sizes and three types, the long-haired, the wired-haired and a short haired. This breed’s body is longer than its height, with short legs. This is still a muscular dog. The head is elongated with pronounced eyebrows. The muzzle is long. The jaw has non- pendent lips. Their teeth meet in a scissor bite. The eyes are almond shaped, and brown black or dark red. They have mobile ears that are down to their cheeks. The tail is carried in line with its back. There are three registered sizes, standard and miniature, and also recognized is the toy variety. The standards height is 8 to11 inches, weighing around 11 pounds. The miniature’s height is 5 to 7 inches, with a weight allowed of 11 pounds or less. The toy variety is allowed to be up to 12 inches in height, their weight not exceeding 8 pounds. The Dachshund can come in so many colours it is best to check with the breeder and or show standards. To give you a range of colours; we have red, crème, golden blonde, black, and the multitude of colours in between. There is bicoloured found in this breed, pattern and tricolours that we have a Dapple, double Dapple, and triple Dapple. Then we have piebald, this is where they have a white body with patches of solid colour, white areas, or they maybe have solid white. As you can see colouring and options are vast.

History: The Dachshund breed originated in Germany in the early 18th-century. The breed was bred to hunt badgers and rabbits due to their short legs, the dog could go underground into the burrows, where they could fight and kill prey. They also hunted hare and stoat. This breed has terrier characteristics, and is very courageous. During World War I, this breed’s population dwindled. These dogs were important to the USA, and once again increased being recognized by the AKC in 1885. There is some belief this breed goes back to ancient Egypt, but this is not conclusive. It is believed that this dog’s origins are a mix of English, German, French hounds and terriers. This breed has been kept by Royal Courts all over Europe, including Queen Victoria. There is verifiable evidence in books written in the 1700s referring to this breed. So much is unclear of their history, but it is known that the shorthaired gave rise to both the wirehaired and long-haired varieties.

Temperament: The Dachshund breed is proud and brave and can be very amusing. They are devoted to their family and can be difficult to train. Potty training takes some time, but they can get there in the end. This little dog requires a good pack leader or problems arise, such as guarding furniture, food or toys. Without good leadership, this breed can become unpredictable with children and adults, snapping and biting and having obsessive barking. With the proper leadership as a human as alpha, these problems should not arise. This dog has a strong instinct to dig. Do not allow this breed, to gain small dog syndrome, keeping good leadership, with clear rules, they need to know what they are allowed and not allowed to do. With the correct amount of exercise, and good human leadership, this breed makes a wonderful companion, with an excellent character.

Health issues: The Dachshund dog can get spinal disc problems, bladder problems, diabetes and heart disease. Careful maintenance of their weight is needed, to prevent obesity.

Grooming: The Long-haired Dachshund will require grooming daily. The wire haired will need professional trimming, six monthly, whereas the smooth haired require a rubdown with a damp cloth weekly. It is best checked with the dealer regarding grooming for your particular dog.

Living conditions: The Dachshund dog is good for apartment life. And providing their daily exercise is given, they can cope without a garden.

Owning a beagle is not always fun and games. From time to time you will encounter beagle problems that will require you to administer a little beagle training. Some of the best resources for ideas are dog training books written by experts or from websites run by other beagle owners with real life experience solving a variety of problems. Whatever resource you use be ready to be strict with your beagle, as it needs to understand who is in charge in your situation.

There are some classic tell tale signs of a misbehaving dog that some people think is just the dog being friendly but in reality is the dog developing bad habits that need to be stopped. If your beagle jumps on people constantly, will always avoid your touch, grabs things from you and then refuses to give them back without a fight, or constantly barks at you or any company in the house then these are signs of behavioral problems that need to be addressed right away.

Training your beagle to avoid problems should be done in stages and there are things a ten month old beagle can do that a three month old could never think of. These are all done with patience and understanding and, as was mentioned before, the proper way to go about these steps can be found in many very good dog training books available on the market. Your vet can also give you some insight on how to properly train your beagle so that it reacts to your commands.

One of the biggest, and most difficult, training milestones many beagle owners experience is housebreaking their pet. For many owners it can be frustrating because they try all of the standard techniques and still the problem seems to never go away. Sometimes a problem becoming housebroken is a physical ailment but many times it is behavioral. Do some research and find alternate ways to housebreaking your beagle and perhaps you will have some success.

Some beagle problems can be traced back to things that the owner may have absolutely no control over. If a puppy is taken from its mother and siblings before it is seven weeks old then it does not have a chance to learn all of the basic things it needs to know to be a beagle on its own. If this happens then you will more than likely get developmental problems with even the most basic of functions that can be difficult to fix.

Beagle puppies left for longer than seven weeks begin to develop a feel for social order and that can cause long-term behavioral problems as well. If your beagle was used to being the top puppy in its litter for too long then that behavior could follow them for the rest of their lives. It is important to understand how to these things affect your beagle in order to train it properly.

Description: The Collie is a large dog, that is muscular, but sleek, and they are a strong dog. The skull is flat at the top, the head is wedge shaped. The muzzle is rounded, sloping downwards to the black nose. The overall facial look is slender. Their teeth should meet in a scissor bite. The eyes are oval and medium-sized, and are, most commonly, dark brown in colour, except the blue merles, which may have blue eyes. This breed has petite ears and these are three fourths erect with the tips of the ear folded forward. Dogs stand, 24 to 26 inches in height, with the bitches, 22 to 24 in height. Dogs are slightly heavier in weight, being 60 to 75 pounds with bitches being 50 to 65 pounds. The body is moderately longer than their height. This breed has straight legs. The tail is in good proportion to the body, and is carried low with some upwards swirl at the tip. There are two coat varieties, smooth and a rough. The rough coat is long and plentiful and all over its body whiles on its head, there is a shorter coat which is also seen on the legs. On the neck, we see a cascading mane going around the neck and chest, this is straight and the longest hair we see on this dog. The smooth coat has short hair of about 1 inch all over the body. Both varieties come in white and tan, tricolour of black, sable and white, there is also the merle whose colours are white with sable, tri colours or blue.

History: The origins of this dog are a little muddled, but what is known for sure is that this dog has been a working dog in Scotland for centuries; the Collie was mainly used as a herding dog and was smaller in appearance than they are today. These dogs covered hard terrain, in all weathers. Queen Victoria had this dog at her Castle in 1860, and from this the dogs became popular. The Collie was mixed with the Borzoi, and to this day the Borzoi blood needs to be in any dog that is to be in the show ring. It’s at this point, the working dog separated. The smooth collie is more popular in the United Kingdom than in America; whereas the rough collie is more popular generally. The AKC considers the rough and smooth collie, as varieties of the same breed. This breed’s most famous role would have to be in the movie, “Lassie”.

Temperament: This is a sensitive, mild-mannered and highly intelligent dog. The Collie is easily trained and is playful and protective of their family. The Collie is energetic when outside. Socializing them well prevents them being too wary of strangers. This breed is not aggressive, they are loyal, that can become stubborn, if firm but consistent rules are not set down. The Collie responds well to gentle training, but you still need to show good leadership to gain cooperation from this breed. This dog requires daily walks and will enjoy a good run, off the lead. Potty training is easier with this breed, as they learn quickly. The Collie requires a lot of exercise and mental stimulation to meet their needs.

Health issues: Some Collie lines are prone to PRA, Collie eye syndrome, hip problems.

Grooming: The long coated Collie will need weekly brushing, or more often, whereas the smooth variety will need brushing every few weeks. Matting can occur in the long coated, and for the dog that is not being shown it may be kinder to cut this out. The Collie can be bathed as required. The long coated collie sheds heavily twice a year, whereas the smooth coated is an averaged shedder.

Living conditions: The Collie can live in an apartment as long as mental and physical activities are provided. This breed requires an average sized garden, with a shaded area for warmer weather.