Friday, February 26, 2010

Breed of the Week II

This week I thought I'd showcase one of the most popular breeds around- Dachshunds!

From the CKC website:

Physical Dimensions:
Miniature: Approx. 8 inches (20 cm) tall at the shoulders, 20 inches (50 cm) long, nose to rump and 6 inches (15 cm) wide.
Standard: 30-40% larger than the Miniature.
Wirehaired: Slightly higher off the ground than the Smooth and Longhaired.

Weight:
Miniature: The ideal weight is 10 lb (4.5 kg).
Standard: Over 11 lbs (5 kg)

Color:
COLOUR
All types/sizes may be one-coloured, two-coloured, dappled or striped.

Dachshunds, also known as Dackels or Teckels, were developed in Germany and used to hunt badger and fox since the Middle Ages. The original Dachshund was the Standard Smooth. The name "dachshund" means "badger dog" in German. Dachshunds work in packs and are strong and fearless when sent underground to rout out the ferocious badger. These short-legged dogs were well recognised and known as one of the most versatile and useful breeds for hunting both below and above ground.

They come in two sizes, and three coat varieties.

The Miniature Dachshunds were bred to hunt the rabbits that destroyed farmers' crops. These little dogs must be small enough to slip down rabbit holes and, in their native Germany, they are classifed according to girth, not weight.

The Dachshund is clever, lively, fearless, persistent and outgoing. With his fun-filled outlook, he is an affectionate and wonderful family companion.

The Dachshund's lively and active personality make him an ideal participant in several dog sports and activities, such as Obedience, Agility, Tracking, Earth Dog Trials, Field Work, and Hunting.

You can find more information about the breed on the Club Website

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We are lucky enough to have a whole bunch of Dachsies attend daycare. They are great little daycare dogs and are generally quite playful and active. Dachshunds are feisty enough to even play with the big dogs on occasion! The Dachshunds that we have at the daycare range from busy and wild to laid back couch potatoes! And some fall in between.

Because of their size and activity level they make great family pets, but it is important to socialise them young with people, dogs and cats so that they remain friendly and outgoing. Also, as with all long, short dogs they are prone to back/disc problems. Keeping a Dachsie thin is the key to a long life!

As mentioned in the breed standard above Dachsies come in all coat colors and variety. Here are a just a few that come to daycare.


Maggie is Mini, Longhair with a dapple coloring. She is the princess. :o)

Cooper is also a mini and a longhair but is a black and tan

Buddy is a mini longhair too! He is quite unique in his coloring.

Pip is an old girl, a red Mini Smooth. She has faded with age, and her face is getting whiter and whiter.

These two handsome devils are Max and Otto. They are both Mini Smooths.

and we couldn't post about Dachshunds without mentioning Perkins. Perkins is a mini smooth who rules the roost from his perch on the sofa. :o)

Undecided


Macy's ears that is....

Thursday, February 25, 2010

"Not by the hair on my chinny-chin-chin!"





Katie has the most amazing expression.

Wednesday, February 24, 2010

New Kid on the Block.


Malachai is a Kerry Blue Terrier puppy. He is new at daycare but has had no problems making friends!

Tuesday, February 23, 2010

New Classes Starting Soon!


We are excited to offer a variety of new classes!

Check out the list below and let us know if you and your dog would be interested in attending!


Manners Obedience- $125/7 weeks

teach your dog the basics including leash manners, how to greet guests, and more!


Puppy Prep- $125/7 weeks

start those puppies young! All the basic skills for obedience, as well as typical puppy issues.


Beyond Basics- $125/7 weeks

looking for a more advanced class? This class is more than the basics and will include off leash obedience, more distractions, hand signals, and fun tricks.


Beginner Rally Obedience- $125/7 weeks

looking for something fun to do with your dog? Rally Obedience is great fun for all dogs. Rally is an obedience challenge and will fine tune your dogs training and improve you and your dogs relationship!


Tricks for Treats- $125/7 weeks

a fun class to teach you and your dogs some great tricks. Tricks are a great way to build confidence, and improve your training skills.


Classes will only run if there is enough interest.

Please email or call to be put on the class list and we'll contact you as soon as the class is filled.


Mind your Manners, and Beyond Basics are set to start Monday, March 8th. There are spots still available in both.


Monday, February 22, 2010

Breed of the Week

For a slight change of pace I thought that it would be fun to showcase a different breed of dog each week. I'll post photos, breed information and website links to parent breed clubs so people can learn more about new breeds, and the breeds that they know and love.

This week I have chosen the Norwegian Elkhound.

Norman, striking a pose.


Information from the Canadian Kennel Club:
CKC Recognized / In the HOUND group.
ORIGIN
The Norwegian Elkhound has been honoured as the dog of Norway. He comes from Spitz-type dogs known in Scandinavia since Viking times and perhaps even earlier. In their homeland, Elkhounds have been used to pull sleds, guard the home and family, do mountain rescue and hunt big game such as moose and bear as well as smaller quarry. The breed was known as the Elghund, meaning “moose dog,” but it became Elkhound in English.

TEMPERAMENT
Bold and Energetic, the Elkhound is an excellent family pet and guardian noted for being good with children.

ACTIVITY LEVEL
A dog of great endurance and stamina, the Elkhound is relatively tireless and likes having a job to do. He's a rugged outdoor type that needs plenty of exercise.

HEIGHT
19-20 inches at the shoulder

COAT
The coat is thick, rich and hard but smooth-lying. On the head and front of legs, it’s short and even.

COLOUR
The Elkhound is grey in colour with black tips to the long, covering hairs.

GROOMING
Regular, thorough brushing is the only grooming attention required. This is a breed that sheds year round, but more so in the spring and fall.

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Beacon and Baby Ullr


We are lucky to have four of these beautiful dogs attend daycare regularly. They are fantastic players and definitely liven the place up at times. Elkhounds are a happy breed and often have big smiles on their faces. They are a "hound" breed so can be a little independent but for the most part they love people and are very friendly.

The trademark of an Elkhound has to be their bark. They like to hear themselves and aren't afraid to express their opinions! Thankfully they are mostly obedient and want to please you. It makes teaching a "no bark" command doable.

Pele


Ullr as a baby


The Elkhound is a beautiful breed that can easily capture your heart- they aren't for everyone though so be sure to do your homework if you are interested in adding one of these beauties to your family!

Friday, February 19, 2010

Squish


Don't you just want to squish him?


Duke is a Boxer puppy and is all tongue, wiggles, and happiness...

The tongue photo isn't quite in focus but I couldn't delete it. :o)

Thursday, February 18, 2010

If you're happy and you know it...

JUMP!







Tucker is one athletic guy!


Tuesday, February 16, 2010

Misty Creek

We sold the last of our Paws on the Run 2010 Calendars the other day. Thanks to everyone who purchased one (or more) we were able to donate $460 to a local dog rescue group!

Initially the money was going to go a Pit Bull rescue located in the Calgary area. Unfortunately we were unable to get a hold of the organisation, and recently heard rumors of them closing their doors.

So instead the money raised was donated to Misty Creek Dog Rescue. They are located just outside of Calgary and last year adopted out 274 dogs! They rescue all breeds of dogs and always have plenty of great (and very cute) dogs looking for homes. They are completely volunteer run and are non profit. They rely on donations to afford to feed, and take care of all of the dogs in their care. We think they are do a wonderful job and are glad to be able to help out even a small amount.

Thursday, February 11, 2010

Northside Regional Park

The City of Lethbridge is going to be creating a Northside Regional Park and are looking for input from residents as to what you'd like to see in the park.  The ideas range from skating rinks, to waterparks to off-leash dog parks.  If you want to voice your opinion, complete their survey before February 20.  I just did it and it only took a minute or two.

Tessa's Ball

Tessa didn't really want to share her ball....




Tuesday, February 9, 2010

Boxer Baby

We had lots of new dogs yesterday but not a lot of time for pictures.  We did manage to get this one of Duke, taking a break from playing with Jake and Bailey (the dog bums you can see on the left).
And no we don't have a sauna out back with the dogs - that steam you see is another dog's breath.  It is still cold outside in the mornings!

Friday, February 5, 2010

Important

Oliver thinks that he is a pretty important fellow.

We agree. :o)

Thursday, February 4, 2010

A Happy Golden

like any self respecting Golden, Cooper LOVES belly rubs...


a lot!

Wednesday, February 3, 2010

That's Better


Denny and Rosie show Piper how it's done!

Monday, February 1, 2010

Comfy?

Piper loves to squish herself into the chairs....




it doesn't look very comfy but she doesn't seem to mind!

New Best Friend

Seeker is an 11 month old Jack Russell who has settled in very well on his first day.


He has made lots of new little friends, but his new best friend is the pink ball.


He's pretty smitten with it. He will do anything to get it, and isn't above begging...



We can't deny him very long....