Blog

What’s so Special about the Schnauzer?

This ‘whiskery snouted’ friend originated from Germany and often receives comments about his distinct moustache and beard. He even has remarkable eyebrows. The Schnauzer was bred for ratting and guarding. Having both these traits meant he was popular around farms. Features such as small ears and a beard gives an annoyed rat less to bite back on and therefore helps protect the dog

In the early days he was known as the Wired-haired pinscher. This little guy was willing to work hard alongside humans on the land as well as travel from village to village, guarding merchant wagons which moved around. The Schnauzer has also been used to carry messages in war time.

Whilst Miniature Schnauzers have a lifespan of around 12 to 14 years, the Giant’s average 10 to 12, with the Standard size living 13 to 16 years. Breeders decided to adjust their kind to come in these 3 sizes so there’d be a Schnauzer to suit everyone. Hmmm, we’re not certain about that part. This breed is a type of terrier. He is agile and from his bloodline as a ratter knows how to dig. His double coat is wavy and wiry but doesn’t shed much. If he sneaks past while you dose you won’t smell him as he has very little body odour.

The Schnauzer’s characteristics score an average of 4 out of 5 for adaptability. He is very smart with high intelligence and even higher energy levels. Because he is clever, he may become bored quickly if training is too dull. The Schnauzer is an excellent watchdog that is wary of strangers and if he spots an intruder, he will let know everyone know at full volume with his piercing bark. He is independent, welcoming the chance to wander and may even pretend he can’t hear you if something else takes his interest. Check it out, he may have detected a mouse.

Leah & Angela OMeara

Hound Dog Day Care (Specialists in Dog Minding & Dog Boarding, Pet Sitting Brisbane & Doggy Day Care Brisbane

How can this help your Dog’s overall health?

Dental hygiene for dogs can be a real pain in the bum. Oops, we mean ‘gum’. That’s right. If your dog needs dental work, you’d better get that wallet out. We may not have control of the way our dog’s teeth grow but as owners, we are responsible for the degree of plaque and tartar. Plaque is the sticky film which constantly forms on teeth. If it is not removed it can harden into tartar. The formation of this type of calculus (tartar) can open the door to gum disease, pain and illness.

It’s hard to imagine that tartar could cause such issues, but it does happen gradually and can reach a destructive point for both dogs and humans. Plaque begins to form on the dog’s teeth only hours after she eats. It combines with salts found in the saliva and begins to build up. As the calculus builds up it pushes the gums further away from the teeth which can result in exposing the roots. These parts of the teeth are not covered in enamel like the rest. Sensitivity can set in and bacteria are able to make their way into the bloodstream and organs.

Many folks have mastered brushing their dog’s teeth. We won’t go into a lesson on how to do so in this blog but will emphasise that you must only use toothpaste designed specifically for dogs as other toothpastes can cause serious harm to canines.

We’d like to tell you about the Petsafe Dog Toothbrush Chew Toy. This is a way your dog can help remove her own tooth build up and enjoy herself at the same time. She gets to have her own bristled chew toy which does the hard work for her by massaging her gums and teeth as she chews. Check out the link below to see how…

https://checkout.pawsafe.co/dogtoothbrush-fs/presell/

It is important to supervise your dog when giving chew toys. Always check for damage and wear to the toy. Dispose of or replace as necessary.

Leah & Angela OMeara

Hound Dog Day Care (Specialists in Dog Minding & Dog Boarding, Pet Sitting Brisbane & Doggy Day Care Brisbane

What is the Vital Role of the Anatolian Shepherd in Africa?

Anatolian Shepherds are being used to protect livestock such as goats, sheep and cows in Africa from predators like cheetahs and jackals.

Large cats which share the land with farmers are now seen as less of a threat and create less of a conflict. This makes it a ‘non-lethal’ predator control method.

This shepherd breed which originates in Turkey, was brought to Africa (specifically for this work) in the early 1990’s and since that time, around 500 puppies have been placed as ‘dogs working with livestock’. The Anatolian Shepherd also known as the Kangal has a lineage able to cope with living outdoors in hot dry summers and then low temperatures in winter.

The guardian dogs bond to the flock as they as raised with them and understand their job very clearly is to the protect. Genes in their bloodline makes them instinctively watchful in the same way as it is with Maremmas. Since the introduction of Anatolian Shepherds for this purpose, previously plummeting numbers of cheetahs have been able to re-populate. Before the dogs, 100’s of cheetahs were killed each year by farmers.

This type of shepherd is large and strong in stature but without being cumbersome. Mastiff and sight-hound breeds are part of his makeup. He is very agile for his size and has been used on military mission for centuries due to his speed and bravery. He is intelligent, devoted and happily adopts his herd as family. When he detects danger such as a predator, he will give an alarm call and position himself between his flock or master and the potential threat.

See the video below to find out first-hand how this amazing breed
has helped farmers in Africa…

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nKaQkUMSzE8

Leah & Angela OMeara

Hound Dog Day Care (Specialists in Dog Minding & Dog Boarding, Pet Sitting Brisbane & Doggy Day Care Brisbane)

How do Dingo’s Differ from your Dog?

Dingo’s (like Basenji’s) are a breed categorized as Pariahs. This means they like to ‘free-range’ but will also occupy or live near human settlements in order to benefit so may be half wild. They have not evolved much since from their ancestor canis lupus (the wolf).

Dingo’s are resourceful and intelligent but because the breed has little to no domestication, they do not have the types of characteristics humans have bred into companion and working dogs.

Their aloof and independent nature does not make them an ideal pet.

This iconic character has in fact, been the Australia’s top terrestrial predator for around 20,000 years. The Dingo’s origin lies in Central Asia and ancient remains show us they migrated to Australia from this area back when the land bridges joined the two locations.

So, what has the Dingo been doing since the last ice age? Surviving. He plays an important part in Australia’s ecology. If he didn’t feed on herbivores, the vegetation would be eaten down far enough to greatly affect soil erosion and also hiding and feeding places for small native animals. Dingo’s prefer larger prey such as kangaroos and unlike foxes or cats (both introduced) they hunt in packs. Dingo’s have also been known to eradicate populations of feral cats and foxes.

You can find them in a variety of colours and they have a distinct absence of body odour (important when you are a hunter). Another feature is that his ears move independently of each other and he can turn his neck 180 degrees. The Dingo’s entire frame is highly flexible, and they will climb into the lower branches of trees. The teeth are sharper than those of your dog, jaws open a lot wider and in closing, he can apply more jaw pressure than Fido. He can stomach food high enough in bacteria to make a domestic dog ill. He even has a degree of immunity against some snakes and paralysis ticks.

Indeed over time some Dingo’s have bred with domestic dogs but pure Dingo’s do still exist. Rather than bark, they howl, chortle or chatter. The Dingo mates for life.

Leah & Angela OMeara

Hound Dog Day Care (Specialists in Dog Minding & Dog Boarding, Pet Sitting Brisbane & Doggy Day Care Brisbane)

Does your dog get the Zoomies and is it healthy?

In a recent article about FRAPS (Frenetic Random Activity Periods) Dr. Karen Becker refers to the activity as the ‘Zoomies’, a term we love. We’re certain you’ll recognize this behavior… when your dog is suddenly overtaken with excitement. Sometimes it seems to come right out of the blue as if the dog just got some great news. Dashing from here to there. Circles, stopping and rushing off again. FRAPS can happen at any given time whether the pooch is in the dog park, sniffing in the yard or was just relaxing on the couch. These bursts of excitement usually only last a matter of minutes whilst humans watch on amused (as long as the dog is not smashing best china onto the floor that is). Still, during these periods dogs seldom actually bump into things. Owners are best to let these energy burst play out rather than stop them. Hmmm – move small children or dangerous objects out of the way just in case. Ask Nan and Pop to remain seated so the pooch can’t dart between their legs.

This compulsion to suddenly burst forward with energy occurs in dogs of all ages, sizes, breeds and is completely normal. Although experts haven’t yet identified the cause, they agree it’s likely an exuberant energy outburst which doesn’t need to be stopped unless the dog is likely to harm itself e.g. a slippery floor or a stair case. Unlike humans who tend to quash their feelings of exuberance, dogs have no such inhibitions and happily express their elation. Interestingly, when other dogs are present, if one dog has the zoomies another may join in.

So, you don’t need to be concerned when your dog gets the zoomies because it is usually a symptom of a happy, healthy dog. Regular sufficient exercise can curb the zoomies a little because more energy has been drained.

Leah & Angela OMeara

Hound Dog Day Care (Specialists in Dog Minding & Dog Boarding, Pet Sitting Brisbane & Doggy Day Care Brisbane)

Could this be the Future in Kennel Design?

When noises such as thunder or fireworks sound in the distance, our sensitive pets can find them an assault on the senses. Fireworks are usually the most severe on pooches, with approximately 50% display an adverse reaction.

This new type of kennel doesn’t just look fabulous; it has a superbly practical use. It’s Ford’s prototype of a noise-cancelling kennel. The genius of this idea is that once microphones located inside the kennel detect the thunder or fireworks a connected audio system produces opposite frequencies. This significantly or completely cancels the incoming noise. The outer construction includes high density cork which also helps insulate the outside noises.

Although this wonderful piece of architecture is not yet available for sale, but we are excited to hear of its inception. The inspiration came as Ford worked on dampening engine and transmission noises in motor vehicles. Similar technology is used in some noise cancelling headphones.

A window on one side allows your dog can see through both ends. Along with the cork panels, microphone and soundproofing, advanced features include anti-vibration risers, soundproofed ventilation and an automatic door so the benefits can be felt quickly when a dog takes shelter inside.

The ThunderShirt may never go out of style but the noise cancelling kennel has certainly made our ears stand up.

We’re certain someone will develop this prototype, so your dog will be able to retreat to a place where he/she feels safe. Scared dogs have been known to flee upon hearing painful or upsetting noise and we’ve covered a few tips in recent blogs but would love to hear any of your own ideas you’ve put to work.

Leah & Angela OMeara

Hound Dog Day Care (Specialists in Dog Minding & Dog Boarding, Pet Sitting Brisbane & Doggy Day Care Brisbane)

Why is home where your Basset Hound is?

As the saying goes… ‘They may pretend to be cute, but they’re plotting to take over the house’. As puppies they are simple adorable, and as they grow into their ears (ok, they never quite grown into them) they have soon won your heart over. This companion is just as happy living in an apartment as a house. His demeanor is calm and could even be called lazy. In short, his family friendly personality is the big plus. He is charming and laid-back. Bred to work in a pack, his pack (you) is very important to him and he doesn’t like to be left alone and will miss you dearly.

His Basset Hounds wrinkles tend to make him look sad and they make you feel even more sorry for him as he watches you eating. The breed may appear a little stubborn but take care of a Basset and in return they will love you unconditionally. He is very content to lounge around with you but if gets too many food treats can stack the weight on easily.

Their strong tracking ability was fundamental for their jobs when they were used for hunting small game such as rabbits and hares. In fact, the only breed with a stronger sense of smell is the Bloodhound.

The Basset Hound lives to around 10 or 12 years and an adult weighs up to 30Kg. With rather short legs his keen nose is never too far from the ground. We’ve mentioned his pendant or ‘drop’ shaped ears in a previous blog. Their ear shape acts much like an air-scoop, stirring up scent molecules as he moves along. Basset’s come in a range of colours and markings but most of them have a white tip on their tail which made it easier for a hunter to follow them in tall grass. However, when this dog is not on a scent, he’s a relaxed family member.

There was a popular comic strip called ‘Fred Basset’ created by Scotsman ‘Alex Graham’. The character was a male Basset Hound but many of you may be too young to remember that one.

It’s hard not to smile through the Basset pup video below…

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z06UyfBoQfc

Leah & Angela OMeara

Hound Dog Day Care (Specialists in Dog Minding & Dog Boarding, Pet Sitting Brisbane & Doggy Day Care Brisbane)

How can dogs and cats be friends?

The ideal age to let cats and dogs meet is when a dog is under 3 months of age and a cat is under 7 weeks of age though some firm friendships have been forged much later than this. The best time to meet is as one or both of them are being welcomed into the house for the first time.

A dog crate and cat crate are needed for this exercise along with some tasty pet treats and toys.

Having your puppy crated means the cat has a chance to investigate with the opportunity to leave. They will both need to sniff each other to get acquainted but begin by letting them smell something belonging to the other such as a toy or bedding, prior to a face to face meeting. Some folks begin by letting them feed on opposite sides of a door, so they can smell and hear each other whilst eating.

Hold the puppy to let the cat smell him/her but don’t hold a cat whilst the dog sniffs. Having toys and treats handy helps each to make positive associations

Time around one another should be increased gradually. Full supervision is needed at the beginning, but this may only be reduced as the pets demonstrate a tolerance for each other. Who knows, they may even start up a game together.

If you already have a cat, avoid giving the pup free run of the house at least for a while so the intruder is not so overwhelming.

Remember that some breeds of dogs are more like to hunt felines than others. Knowing a dog’s history goes a long way, regardless of breed. However, the success in this exercise is mostly about temperament and personality. Careful management will be needed. Whilst dog/cat friendships do exist, some will never be friends and cat claw to an eye ball can be devastating.

Feeding your pets where they cannot reach each other’s food means no-one’s dinner gets raided and less chance of contempt. Also, cats need a little privacy for the bathroom and don’t appreciate being pounced on mid-squat. Keep the kitty litter somewhere fido can’t go. It will also stop him dining on cat poop.

There are loads of great tips on the internet about how to set up a harmonious relationship for dogs and cats. Ultimately you are aiming for the cat to be at the top of the hierarchy. Speaking of the ‘top’, be sure to provide safe and stable high places a cat can escape to. A location to rest above a bookshelf could save the day but only if it’s not likely to topple onto the dog.

Leah & Angela OMeara

Hound Dog Day Care (Specialists in Dog Minding & Dog Boarding, Pet Sitting Brisbane & Doggy Day Care Brisbane)

Do dogs go through a teenage stage?

Picture raising a pup. Perhaps you’ve done it before. All that work, playing, feeding, chewing, puppy school, sleep deprivation whilst toilet training and that’s just you. Ok, well maybe he chewed more than you. The world has been even bigger event for your pup. When a pup hits around 8 months of age folks often breathe a sigh of relief saying, ‘Thank goodness that little puppy stage is over’. We hate to alarm you, but teenage hood is about to begin.

You may have started out on a good thing, but now your pup has gone from cute fluffball to demon pup! This young canine is about to experience a number of biological, physical and psychological changes. Hence the reason so many dogs are surrendered at between 10 & 18 months. Adolescence kicks in and can leave owners reeling. Suddenly it’s as if another dog has possessed the body of your sweet puppy. Your dog is now equivalent to 15 years of age if measured against the human scale. This developmental stage when his canines appear, may involve around 8 more months of extreme behavior and similar observations as you might hear from parents with human teenagers. Remarks such as ‘he’s so obnoxious, he outright ignores everything I say, he constantly tests me & he’s out of control’ are commonly heard from parents of teen dogs.

It’s important to be aware that this stage is going to happen, preferably before it arrives to help you prepare. However, every cloud has a silver lining. This is a valuable time to build a bond with your dog. Work done through this period will help cement a solid relationship and earn his trust in you. Use this as a molding stage and forge ahead creating a dog people love being around. His desire for stimulus can be met by you giving him exercise and training sessions.

He is counting on you to be able to provide a fulfilling life. You have made a long-term commitment to delivering his care as a new member of your family. Be prepared for ups and downs and continue to seek all the help you need. It will be a learning curve which challenges your own patience and development so embrace it.

Leah & Angela OMeara

Hound Dog Day Care (Specialists in Dog Minding & Dog Boarding, Pet Sitting Brisbane & Doggy Day Care Brisbane)

Could this be the longest ‘dog-paddle’ ever?

In the Gulf of Thailand this week, a brown aspin has been found 220 kilometres from shore, amazing oil rig workers who lifted him to safety at last. The term ‘aspin’ is the definition of a street dog native to the Phillipines. Although ‘Boonrod’ probably found himself in the water after falling from a boat, it is believed he had a mammoth swim before making his way to safety for a breather.

Oil rig workers named him ‘Boonrod’ because it has a connotation of luck in Thai, an apt name for a pooch seen dog-paddling so far from land. The dog was spotted as it swam through the ocean to the platform and may not have even been noticed if the waves were higher. He was very cold and shivered as he balanced on a metal bar at the surface. Workers looking down devised a way to rescue him and tied a rope around Boonrod’s neck to pull him up. They were worried that if they didn’t move fast enough, he may slip back into the water. Once lifted to safety, he didn’t move much and was hardly able to stand.

After spending the weekend on the drilling platform, Boonrod loaded onto an oil vessel and then delivered to a port in Songkhla. Once he was on shore, the lucky pooch received a warm welcome from the community and a lei of yellow flowers. Many were keen to give him pats and neck scratches. Boonrod was looked after by a local charity group and taken to a vet for examination. He is in good spirits, recovering well and unaware that his plight has made the news all over the globe.

Leah & Angela OMeara

Hound Dog Day Care (Specialists in Dog Minding & Dog Boarding, Pet Sitting Brisbane & Doggy Day Care Brisbane)