Wisconsin Dogs

Went to visit some family in Wisconsin and ended up having a little dog get-together as well.  Of course these dogs all know each other.  I guess you could say they are my dog's cousin dogs, if that makes any sense.

Its always fun to get your dog(s) together with as many other dogs as often as possible (provided everything is done safely).  Teaching a dog proper socialization skills is one of the most important things you can do for the safety and happiness of your pet.

Can you get yours and all your family's dogs to pose together?

Caravaggio (my boy), Buddy, Cody, Nekita (my girl), and Laddie.

Chewing Deterrents

Bitter Spray is spray used to deter puppies and dogs from chewing on inappropriate things.  The spray has a bitter taste that most dogs find unpleasant.  To use this type of chewing deterrent, spray on all items you wish the dog to avoid.  These sprays come in many different kinds, and even come in a paste form.  These products are non-toxic, but can sometimes evaporate quickly, and must be reapplied regularly.  Not all dogs will be repelled by bitter sprays.

Breed of the Month--Vizsla

Vizsla

Color:  Shades of golden rust

Height:  Males:  22-25 inches/  Females:  21-23.5 inches

Weight:  44-66 lbs

Life Span:  11-15 years

Breed Health Concerns:  Allergies, entropion, hip dysplasia, epilepsy, progressive retinal atrophy, hypothyroidism, ectropion, and von Willebrand disease.  

Coat:  Dense, smooth, short, close lying single coat.

Country of Origin:  Hungary

Visit the American Kennel Club for breed standards and more information.  

The ancestor of the Vizsla were hunters that travelled with a nomadic tribe who came to settle in (what is now known as) Hungary.  The intense terrain of the land encouraged the breeding of hunting traits like a keen nose for smells and the ability to withstand extreme weather.

The Vizsla can become prone to destructive behaviors if not properly exercised.  This breed was made for hunting and working long, hard hours.  The Vizsla excels in activities such as:  pointing, agility, retrieving, tracking, and obedience.

Although I have met very few dogs of this breed, the ones I have met are very beautiful animals.  I believe a concern to keep in mind for this breed is anxiety.  This breed needs extensive daily physical and mental exercise, and things to keep him occupied.  It's important to take on a strong, calm leadership role when bringing this breed into your family.

Exercise: 
Vizslas are very athletic dogs who require vigorous daily exercise.  They enjoy being in wide open places where they can run and sniff (hunt).  Vizslas are a great breed for someone looking for a running or biking partner.

Grooming:
The Vizslas coat is extremely easy to care for.  Use a hound glove to keep the skin clean, and take note to frequently check the coat for ticks and other parasites.  The long ears of the Vizsla must be kept clean and free from infection.

Training: 
The Vizsla is an extremely motivated dog for training.  This breed can be highly distractible with such high energy and training must remain positively reward-based, persistent, and patient.