STAFFORDSHIRE BULL TERRIER

The Staffordshire Bull Terrier is a medium-sized, sturdy, and very muscular dog, known for its strength, fearlessness and courage. This all purpose dog, also known as Bull-dog Terrier, the Brindle Bull, the Patched Fighting Terrier and Pit–dog  was originally used as a fighting dog. The Staffordshire Bull Terrier was created by crossing Bulldogs with Black and Tan Terriers in Britain during the middle of the 19^th century.

Temperament

Staffordshire Bull Terriers are loyal and devoted to its owners.

They are affectionate and have a natural fondness of people, especially children.

They are trustworthy, energetic and rugged, but at times also impulsive.

Due to their friendliness they easily adapt in terms of changing homes or even owners.

It is usually good with other pets in the household but do not socialize well with other dogs.

Without proper control it may still display its ancient tendency to be aggressive to other dogs because not socializing with other dogs when he was young.

Physical characteristics

Head: Broad skull, strong jaws and large teeth.
Eyes: Medium sized and set well apart.
Ears: Wide-set, half prick ears.
Body: Muscular, short body has a clean outline.
Coat: Smooth close fitting coat.
Tail: Set low on the back and carried straight.

Exercise

As an outlet for their energy they require regular exercise to avoid excessive weight gain. If the Staffordshire Bull Terrier is denied mental and physical activity its energy may be released in destructive and disobedient behavior. Reinforce you authority by playing tug-of-war games with him. Never let your dog win. Show him you are the dominant figure.

THE KERRY BLUE TERRIER OR IRISH BLUE TERRIER

The Kerry blue terrier pet dog is one of the most mysterious breeds of terriers.This is because of the fact that even though the breed has been known by the Irish for at least 150 years, nobody really knows where they came from or how they were first bred. Officially named as the national dog of Ireland it is also known as the Irish Blue Terrier.

Various legends are told in order to explain the appearance of the Kerry blue terrier breed. Some say that the peasants bred them for hunting purposes since noblemen monopolized the use of wolfhounds. Thus, noblemen hunted with their wolfhounds while peasants poached with their Irish Blue Terriers.

Another legend speaks of a wrecked Russian ship that contained a blue dog.The dog swam ashore in the Bay of Tralee on the Irish shore and there mated with the local terrier population. This, of course, started the genetic pool of the Kerry blue terriers.

Whatever the case, the Kerry blue terrier sure has a colorful history. It started as a working dog, bred to control vermin including rats, otters and badgers. It would also be trained as a police dog by the English. Today, it is considered to be one of the best breeds of dogs that one can own. This is in part of its excellent abilities as a watchdog.

One thing that is so great about owning a Kerry blue terrier pet dog is the fact that this breed is adaptable to every situation. It can be a hardworking hunter’s dog, but also a reliable house guard. If you want companionship, it can also provide that. People who own a Kerry blue terrier pet dog even say that once you are a Kerry lover, you are forever a Kerry lover.

There are some terrier characteristics which may cause a bit of trouble for your dog. Like all terriers, the Kerry blue terrier can get into fights with other dogs and do not mix well with cats. In order to prevent this, you need to make sure that the Blue Kerry terrier pet dog is properly socialized. Usually this is done by the breeder.

Most people, when they are getting a pet often ask the question of whether or not a pet can be housebroken easily. Thankfully enough, the Blue Kerry terrier pet dog has a disposition that is easily house trained. The Kerryblue terrier pet dog is actually quite eager to learn. This means that you will be able to train it very quickly.

The Kerry blue terrier is also one of the more hardy types of terriers. Its a versatile hard-working farmer's dog. This is because the Kerry blue terrier has very few genetic problems. Before buying one, however, you need to ask for eye certifications and hip x-rays. These are the most commonly afflicted parts of the Kerry blue terrier.

 The Irish blue terrier is a  very playful dog, so people may not really understand its habit of following everyone around. It is also a fierce, even surly dog, but one who is also highly intelligent, charming and trustworthy.

TRAINING YOUR AIREDALE TERRIER TO BEHAVE WELL

Contrary to popular belief an old dog can be taught new tricks. However, the earlier an Airedale terrier pet dog learns a trick, the faster he will be able to learn it. This also applies to general behavior. A born watchdog, it has a delinquent tendency to get into street brawls with other dogs. Obedience training from an early age can prevent many behavioral problems. This way, the behavioral training will be imprinted into the Airedale terrier brain and ensures that proper behavior becomes almost instinctive to the Airedale terrier. 

Dogs can be readily trained to obey a variety of commands. The best results are achieved by a method known as positive reinforcement. However, this method only work when properly executed. When your dog responds to a command he gets an incentive in the form of a treat. By repeating this exercise several times the dog starts to associate this conduct with a particular action. Don’t use the leash to punish your dog. Each method of training can only be effective if used in a way that will not harm the dog. Be firm but gentle. Train your dog to always obey your commands in such a manner that will encourage him to behave well.

Training an Airedale terrier can sometimes be very frustrating. However you should never loose your temper. Do not physically punish your dog for bad behavior. Don’t attempt training your dog while you are in a bad mood. You and your dog will learn nothing.

Timing is very important. You need to make corrections regarding you Airedale terrier behavior while those corrections are still relevant.

Reinforce your dominance over it through routine exercises.

Don’t confuse your dog by praising or correcting with the wrong timing. Well-trained dogs show interest in each other with no signs of fear or aggression.

Grooming requirements

The wiry coat of the Airedale terrier consists of stiff, dense hair. It needs regular grooming to prevent matting. Don't use conditioners on this type of coat, since the latter will soften it. Wiry coats do not molt and require regular hand-stripping or clipping.

DOGGY TREATS

Biscuits

Ace's Favorite Cheesy Dog Biscuits

1 1/2 cups whole wheat flour 1 1/4 cups grated cheddar cheese 1/4 pound margarine -- corn oil 1 clove garlic --crushed 1 pinch salt 1/4 cup Milk --or as needed
Grate the cheese into a bowl and let stand until it reaches room temperature. Cream the cheese with the softened margarine, garlic, salt and flour. Add enough milk to form into a ball.
Chill for 1/2 hour. Roll onto floured board. Cut into shapes and bake at 375 degrees for 15 minutes or until slightly brown, and firm. Makes 2 to 3 dozen, depending on size.
Yield: "24 biscuit


Alfie And Archie's Dog Biscuits

• 2 1/2 cups whole wheat flour 1/2 cup dry milk --powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon brown sugar
• 6 tablespoons beef fat
• 1 egg -- beaten
• 1/2 cup ice water
1. Preheat oven to 350. Lightly oil a cookie sheet. Combine flour, dry milk, salt, garlic powder and sugar. Cut in meat drippings until mixture resembles corn meal. Mix in egg. Add enough water so that mixture forms a ball.
Using your fingers, pat out dough onto cookie sheet to half inch thick. Cut with cookie cutter or knife and remove scraps. Scraps can be formed again and baked.
2. Bake 25-30 minutes. Remove from tray and cool on rack.

CONTROLLING AGGRESSIVE AND UNWANTED BEHAVIOR IN DOGS

Aggression takes a variety of forms and responds to different methods of control. Dogs of the fighting breeds can sometimes be more aggressive than their even-tempered counterparts. If your dog is sensitive to the arrival of strangers he should be trained to distinguish between friendly or neutral strangers and those with hostile intentions. Dogs have a deeply ingrained territorial defensiveness. It requires special training to teach him whether you approve or disapprove of a stranger.

If your dog was not properly socialized with other dogs when he was young he may show signs of aggressive behavior to other dogs. If kept in restricted spaces with little to occupy him, he is likely to develop behavior difficulties and in extreme cases becoming destructive and aggressive.

Corrective measures to improving aggressive behavior:

Aggression behavior to owner
Command the dog to lie down so that he becomes subservient to you. Lift its hind leg to show your dominance. Alternatively you can command your dog to stay, standing over it and lifting its front legs off the ground. Finding the loss of control intimidating it will soon accept that you are in charge.

Aggression behavior to visitors
Gradually introduce your dog to strangers so that he doesn't get confused or bewildered. By bending down to touch the dog the stranger appears to be acting in a threatening way. Request the stranger to avoid eye contact with the dog and to avoid intimidating gestures. When approaching the dog offer a hand at face level and avoid reaching down from above using jerky movements. By sitting down and giving the dog a treat while restrained on its lead the stranger will appear less intimidating. Strangers should not force themselves on a hostile or confused dog. Allow the dog to set the pace.

Aggression behavior to other dogs
If your dog was not taught when young to tolerate other animals it will be hostile to other dogs. Command the dog to sit.Take control of the situation by making it appear less intimidating. Pretend to be unconcerned about the other dog. Consequently he will realize that the other dog pose no threat.

Should the above approach be inadequate request the advice of a professional trainer.

DOG DIETARY NEEDS AND CALORIE INTAKE

A nutritious, well balanced diet ensures a strong-boned, well muscled, healthy shiny coated dog. Ensure that the food you provide is part of a well balanced diet.  If your dog is overweight reduce its calorie intake and increase its exercise.

Correct feeding methods.

Obtain food from a reputable pet food manufacturer.
Don't give spoiled or stale food to your dog.
Control what your dog eats. Don't feed your dog cat food. It is too high in protein.
Always serve your dog's food at room temperature.
Uneaten food should be disposed off.
Watch your dog's weight. Prevent obesity. Feed according to manufacture's instructions.

Bones and chews help to exercise jaw muscles and is also good for dental hygiene. Don't give your dog brittle bones.
Take note of your dogs eating patterns. Consult a vet if your dog refuses to eat.
Provide separate bowls for different dogs.
Drinking more water than usual may be and indication of an internal disorder.
Protein, which maintains the metabolic processes, should not form more than half of a dog's diet. 
The remainder of his daily calories should come from carbohydrates, which ensure regular bowel movements. 
Remember to include the calorie count of treats when calculating his daily intake. 

Supplements
Ensure that the correct amount of calcium and vitamin tablets as prescribed by a vet form part of your dog's diet.

Approximate daily calories required for adult dogs.

Dog type                                     Calories required

Toy 5 kg ( 11 lb )                                210 calories          
e.g. Toy Fox Terrier

Small 10 kg ( 22 lb )                            590 calories
e.g. Pomeranian

Medium 20 kg ( 45 lb )                        900 calories
e.g Staffordshire Bull Terrier

Large 40 kg ( 88 lb )                             1680 calories
e.g. French Mastiff

Giant 80 kg ( 176 lb )                             2800 calories
e.g. Tornjak

You should feed about 60 percent of the calories required for your dog's ideal weight. Since each dog has its own requirements the above indications should only be regarded as a guideline.

DOG TRAINING, EXERCISE AND PUNISHMENT

Most dogs are likely to develop habits that you find annoying or unpleasant. Disobedience is more likely to be found in confident and independent dogs than in submissive or shy ones. A dog does not misbehave to punish its owner. It is more often the other way around.

Dogs need punishment so that they can discern between right and wrong and also to teach them what is acceptable and what is not. Without some form of punitive measures there would be no way of conveying the message to him.

Two forms of punishment are usually applied, namely positive and negative punishment. Positive punishment entails verbal correction, and giving the leash a gentle tug. Take care not to injure the dog. Your dog should associate this act with an unpleasant event or reprimand. Using positive punishment incorrectly or immoderately, may result in serious complications. It is highly recommended that you consult an experienced dog trainer before doing so.
Negative punishment entails the restriction of incentives he normally would have gotten. Do not lose patience if you don't get the required results immediately.

A few ways of  negative punishment are listed below and should be imposed immediately after the unwanted behavior so that the dog associates this with its bad behavior.

Place your dog in an isolated room for a short period of time.
Take away his favorite toys for while.
Don't give any attention to your dog for a certain period of time, also avoiding eye contact.
Don't reward him with his normal treat.

Dogs should not be physically punished for bad behavior.

Exercise

Exercise is one of the main way in which dogs keep their muscle tone, bones, joints, and mind healthy. If a dog is denied physical and mental activity, its energy may be released in destructive and unacceptable behavior.

Some breeds of dogs are more active and need more exercise than others. Age and state of health should also be taken into consideration.

Types of exercises

Retrieving objects

The most well known of dog exercises, the fetch game involves you throwing a ball or frisbee and your dog running after it and returning it to you. Chasing games stimulate natural canine behavior.

Tug-of-war and playing with each other
Playing games with dogs reinforces your authority. The dog depends on you to provide the toys such as knotted ropes and tug toys. Knotted ropes and tug toys can also be used for dogs to play together.

Exercise on the lead
Take your dog for daily walks. When walking among other pedestrians make use of an extendable lead that makes provision you for short lead control. It also provides for longer lead freedom to enable the dog to enjoy more freedom.

Exercise of the lead
When circumstances permit, afford your dog the opportunity to enjoy vigorous exercise, especially in cases of the more active breeds.