New Year's on Examiner

Celebrate New Year's Eve with my newly published Examiner article "101 Wishes for a Happy New Year" (see my homepage link under Puppy Love Links for direction).

As I end the year spotlighting the Dalmatian breed on Examiner, I end the year on Puppy Love with a video feature of the Dalmatian.  Enjoy the YouTube clip below.

Puppy Love gives a pawfive wish to all in the new year : )

Dogs 101 Dalmatian

Beagle 2010

In my Examiner article, "Favorite Breed 2010," I name the Beagle as my pick for 2010.

Dogs 101 on Animal Planet showcases this loveable breed -

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BAf7lcYEXag

Favorite Breed 2010

As the year 2010 comes to a close, thoughtful reflections are made on favorite highlights throughout the past twelve months.  In December 2009, I found an interest in the Beagle breed.  In December 2010, I name the Beagle as my favorite breed. . .

Read more in my article "Favorite Breed 2010" -

http://www.examiner.com/dog-breeds-in-chicago/favorite-breed-2010

Puppies December 2010

Holiday Edition on Examiner

I just published my second article on Examiner!

My new title is "It's a Cocker Spaniel Christmas" and can be found on my homepage listed under Puppy Love Links.

Enjoy. . .and Happy Holidays!

Chicago Dog Breeds Examiner

I am beyond thrilled to announce amazing news. . .

I am the official Chicago Dog Breeds Examiner for the online magazine, Examiner.com!

My position features anything dog in Chicago, Illinois.  My inspiration for articles will always come from Puppy Love.  If you love Puppy Love, I hope you will enjoy my articles the same.

If you love Puppy Love, I encourage you to support my page on Examiner.com and, as always, spread the word.  I plan to publish articles weekly if not daily.  A link to my Examiner homepage follows -

http://www.examiner.com/dog-breeds-4-in-chicago/lauren-hovis 

Puppy Love gives a pawfive thank you to all supporters : )

Labrador Retriever Month on Puppy Love

As I follow the trend in The Daily Puppy, I officially declare December 2010 to be Labrador Retriever month.

There is to consider Jack the Labrador Retriever, Maddie the Golden Retriever, and Mylah the Labrador Mix.  There is to consider today Scout the Labrador Retriever.

PAWS Chicago was home to Blue, a Golden Retriever pup, until his forever home adoption.

PAWS Chicago is now home to Jaxx - a goofy one-year-old -



The Naperville Humane Society is now home to Griswald - a "total package" one-year-old mix -



It is simply no wonder that the Retriever breed is the most popular in the United States.

Puppy Love gives a pawfive to the adorable Labrador Retriever.

12 Strays of Christmas - Another adoption!

I am thrilled to announce that Cosette (featured in PAWS Chicago's 12 Strays of Christmas) has been adopted!

Puppy Love wishes all the best to Cosette and her forever family : )

Christmas is near. . .

I have never been sure who loves the holiday season the most. . .pups or forever families.  Our eyes glitter at the beautiful sight of breathtaking decorations.  Our senses melt at the delicious aroma of holiday meals.  Our hearts stop at the sight of presents we long to hope for.  Do our pups feel the same rush of winter magic and excitement?  December is time to find out.

I believe that Amazon will make an excellent stop in your shopping trip.  Your little one deserves the thrill of "Santa's visit" too.

Affiliate Partnership Announcement

I am excited to announce my newly formed partnership with The Paws and with US Pets.  The Paws and US Pets have incredible selections to choose from for your little one and all products come with a discount.  The Paws is well known for its cool dog toys.  US Pets is well known for its medicines such as Frontline.  If you need something fun or practical or both, shop at The Paws and US Pets.  A link icon to both sites can be found at the bottom of the Puppy Love screen.

12 Strays of Christmas adoption

I am thrilled to announce that Maxine (featured in PAWS Chicago's 12 Strays of Christmas) has been adopted! 

Puppy Love wishes all the best to Maxine and her forever family : )

Speaking of PAWS

Speaking of PAWS. . .

Meet Maxine -

This doll is a one-year-old Jack Russell Terrier Mix.  She is part of the 12 Strays of Christams.  Maxine has been available for adoption since December 17.  She is my PAWS Chicago favorite.



Meet Cosette -

This sweetheart is a two-year-old Rottweiler/Shar Pei Mix.  She is part of the 12 Strays of Christmas.  Cosette has been available for adoption since December 17.  She is my second PAWS Chicago favorite.



Meet Roy -

This little one is an eight-month-old Rottweiler Mix.  He is part of the 12 Strays of Christmas.  Roy has been available for adoption since December 15.  He is my third PAWS Chicago favorite.

Puppy Love wishes a warm Happy Holidays to those who adopt their favorites.

PAWS Chicago Adoption Update

I am thrilled to share adoption update news. . .

As of November, I have featured six PAWS Chicago pups on Puppy Love - Ham, Blue, Bisquick, Phifer, Bambino, and Red.  Since each post, Ham, Blue, Bisquick, and Bambino have been adopted. 

I will never know if Puppy Love played a role, but nonetheless Puppy Love wishes a pawfive to these little ones and their forever families.

Puppy Training Tips Again : Part 2

Skills Series - Part 2

"Use Small Treats"

- Reinforcement for good behavior leads to consistently good behavior

- Reinforcement is best through treats, praise, petting, and so on

- Small treats given often mean more to a dog than big treats once or twice a day

*Tips provided by Irith Bloom, Owner of The Sophisticated Dog
(Training Service)

Strider the Boxer Mix

Today's daily puppy is Strider the Boxer Mix.  How I am torn. . .My forever love is with the Dalmatian breed, but Strider!  His puppy face!  His floppy ears!  His on-the-ready goofiness!  Strider is adorable!  Do I love Boxers now?  Boxer mix?

Strider is a Boxer Mix.  I see a hint of German Shepherd in Strider - coloring, nose.  I also see a hint of Labrador Retriever in Strider - something about his ears. 

What do you see a hint of?  Leave a comment with your suspected Boxer Mix.

PAWS Chicago Holiday Event

I apologize for the delay in this announcement. . .

PAWS Chicago is celebrating the holidays with a spectacular event - 12 Strays of Christmas.  This most definitely pawfive event runs December 13 to Christmas Eve.  Every day, new pups (and cats) are featured for adoption.  A cool incentive to attract potential forever families into the adoption center (1997 N. Clybourn) is the appearance of local and national celebrities.  Further details can be found at http://www.pawschicago.org/12strays. 

Celebrate your 2010 holiday with a new little one as the best present ever.

Bonneville the Adoptable Puppy

Today's daily puppy is Bonneville the Adoptable Puppy.

Bonneville is most adorable and indeed adoptable.  Bonneville reminds me of Ham.

I strongly believe in adoption advocacy. . .

Petfinder : Lighthearted Statistics

- 57% of American households own either a dog or a cat

- the U.S. holds the highest percentage of households with either a dog or a cat (poll 20 major nations)

- 9/10 pet owners consider their pet a family member

- 63% of dog owners give Christmas presents to their pets

- 36% of dog owners give their pets birthday presents

- 20% of dog owners leave their television, radio, or stereo on when leaving the house so as not to let their pets feel alone

- 16% of dog owners bought a car or home with pet in mind

- 34% of dog owners take their pets on family vacations

- 80% of pet owners who talk to their animals claim response in the form of sounds, facial expressions, or body language

- 3/4 dog owners believe their pets try to make them feel better when they are unhappy

- Top 5 dog breeds registered with the American Kennel Club : Labrador Retriever, Rottweiler, German Shepherd, Golden Retriever, Beagle

- the Cocker Spaniel was the most popular breed in the United States in the 1980s

- the Labrador Retriever reigns in popularity

* http://www.petfinder.com/for-shelters/facts-pet-ownership.html

Suite101 : Not so lighthearted Statistics

- 27% of dog owners surrendered their pets to animal shelters

- 42.4% of dogs have been brought into shelters by animal control services

- most pets are given up for unjust reasons

- 10% of dogs in United States households were adopted from a shelter

- 4,132,231 cats and dogs are euthanized in shelters every year in the United States

- 56.4% of all shelter dogs are euthanized

- Statistics due to overpopulation : spay and neuter pets, adopt adult pets from shelters rather than puppies from pet shops

* http://www.suite101.com/content/cat-and-dog-adoption-and-euthanasia-statistics-a179507 

No Kill Society

Euthanasia must be reserved for those dogs who pose a significant threat to the public or who suffer and medical treatment cannot alleviate their pain.

The city of Austin, Texas supports No Kill.  Delaware supports No Kill.  Communities in Kentucky support No Kill.  Communities in Canada support No Kill, reducing deaths by 70%.  A shelter in New Zealand marked a 96% rate of lifesaving.

Shelters in Los Angeles kill 50% of adoptable dogs.

Unadoptable dogs so labeled by some shelters are in fact adoptable. . .but are killed.  The public is left to believe that dogs are not available due to illness or injury and must be put down.  These shelters lie to "justify" unwarrented murder.

Over 90% of shelter animals can be saved and adopted - young, adorable, old, unattractive, healthy, disabled.

A shelter in Nevada has saved 95% of all animals - twice the United States average.

*Statistics from PAWS Chicago Angel Tales Magazine Fall/Winter 2010, pages 28 - 29

As you read this post, think of the 60% of dogs "entering animal shelters never make it out alive."  As you read this post, think of Bonneville the Adoptable Puppy.  Think of all young, adorable, old, unattractive, healthy, and disabled pups in your nearby shelter.  Think of all of the young, adorable, old, unattractive, healthy, and disabled pups I feature through PAWS Chicago, the Naperville Area Humane Society, and Kauai Humane Society on a weekly basis.  Think of Ham and Red, both disabled.  Think of Pink, a breed known for surrender.  Think of puppies barking for attention.  Think of older dogs who know they will not be chosen for a home today.  

Puppy Love honors all dogs - young, adorable, old, unattractive, healthy, and disabled.  The core of Puppy Love is to celebrate all dog breeds - through history, through adoption availability, through intriguing videos, through useful tips, through fun features offered by Amazon, through a link list, and so much more.  Dogs deserve only the best in love, whether in a forever home or in a shelter awaiting their forever home.  I am an adoption advocate.  Are you?

Eli the Australian Shepherd

Today's daily puppy is Eli the Australian Shepherd.  Eli is most cuddly in the snowy backdrop.  I must admit that there is another adorable Australian Shepherd on Puppy Love.  Remember Chloe early in December?  Refresh your knowledge and memory of the Australian Shepherd with my post "Chloe the Australian Shepherd."

Puppy Love always gives a pawfive to those walking down memory lane in Blog Archive.  : )

Marble the Mixed Breed

Today's daily puppy is an adorable challenge.

I sense a hint of Yorkshire Terrier in Marble.  I leave the guess to you, however.  Leave a comment with your thoughts on Marble's mixed breed.

Puppy Love always gives a pawfive to those who leave comments.  : )

Puppy Training Tips Again : Part 1

Skills Series - Part 1

"The Foundation Skill for Successful Dog Training"

- Eye contact must be established in all settings

- Sustained eye contact must be established in response to the dog's name or verbal cues

*Tips provided by dogspelledforward.com
(Dog Spelled Forward Dog Training)

Roxy the Goldendoodle

Today's daily puppy is Roxy the Goldendoodle.  Roxy is adorable. . .as is her mixed breed.

The Goldendoodle is as popular on Puppy Love as the Retriever.  Remember Luna the Goldendoodle?  Refresh your memory's interest with my daily puppy post about Luna the Goldendoodle in Puppy Love December Archives.

Holiday Miracle

In my research for Cocker Spaniels, I found a heart-melting article on MSNBC.  The online article is titled "Pit bull rescues blind cocker spaniel from freezing to death."  Follow the link below to read this story - truly a holiday miracle.

http://today.msnbc.msn.com/id/40593638/ns/local_news-portland_or/ 

Holiday Edition on Amazon

December whispers innocence.  Find your childhood spark in this holiday edition.

Puppy Love Holiday Edition

December whispers silent snowfall, crystal lights as illuminous as the evening moon, cold that warms the heart, and a sparkle in forever eyes.  December whispers glittering magic in the name of the holiday season.  Puppy Love wishes all forever families and little ones loving memories in the 2010 season.

Today's daily puppy is a special one.  In this Holiday Edition, I feature the Cocker Spaniel. 

Lady -



- was a Christmas gift to her forever family when she was an infant.  Her puppy litter was an addition to the family in the last Christmas scene in the forever classic Disney film, Lady and the Tramp.  Lady is the Holiday Edition in Puppy Love.

The Cocker Spaniel has been recognized since the late 1800s and has been a popular breed since.

The Spaniel breed derives from the term Spanyell coined in the 14th Century.  Cockers are the smallest of the breed and are in fact part of the Sporting Group.  The formally recognized Cocker Spaniel is the English Cocker Spaniel.  The English Cocker Spaniel is a formidable hunting dog with surprising speed on land and ability in water.

For more history on the Cocker Spaniel, visit the American Kennel Club at http://www.akc.org/breeds/cocker_spaniel/index.cfm. 

The Cocker Spaniel is known as well for its loving and gentle nature.  This breed is trustworthy and respectful of authority.  The Cocker Spaniel is naturally shy and should be socialized well early in puppyhood.  The Cocker Spaniel is an excellent fit for families with children and other animals.  Strong leadership and authority in training will make housebreaking easier.

The Cocker Spaniel does require authority.  If this breed senses any hesitation or weakness in its owner, behavior issues will arise.  When a dog is adopted, they must know their place in the family.  The family is the dog's pack.  Humans in the family - adults and children - must lead and must call the rules.  If a dog senses otherwise, their behavior will rise into dominance.  This dominance will lead to viciousness, exicted urination, excited energy that is not able to be expended, aggressiveness, uncontrolled barking, hyper activity, and much more.  Human leadership and authority is critical to appropriate behavior.  Love is the reward of appropriate behavior.

The Cocker Spaniel is prone to cataracts and glaucoma.

The Cocker Spaniel requires daily exercise.  Walks must train the dog to heel beside or behind the walker - or leader - or human.

The Cocker Spaniel fairs okay in apartments settings as they can be just as active indoors, with the condition though that they still go for walks.

The Cocker Spaniel lives a fairly long life, with average life expectancy at 12 to 15 years.

The Cocker Spaniel litter is relatively small at 1 to 7 pups, with average 5.

To learn more about the Cocker Spaniel, visit Dog Breed Info Center at http://www.dogbreedinfo.com/americancocker.htm. 

Chessie in my thoughts

The Australian Cattle Dog is a special breed in my heart.  My late Chessie was an Australian Cattle Dog with love and personality to fill every heart in her precious life.  Therefore, I am thrilled when an Australian Cattle Dog is available for adoption.  So. . .

Meet Lucy -




This little one is a Cattle Dog/Heeler mix at just one year old.  Lucy is described as social and friendly.  She loves to run.  Lucy is well trained in cues to sitting and in walking well on a leash.

Miss Lucy is a tropical gal.  Her home is in Kauai, Hawaii at the Kauai Humane Society.  If you reside on the island or are vacationing with interest in adopting, think about Lucy.  KHS lists adoption instructions for each available pup on their website - http://www.kauaihumane.org/.

Puppy Love always gives a pawfive to adoptions near and far.  : )

Something about Dalmatians. . .

Meet Pink -



This lovely angel is a Dalmatian/Retriever mix.  She is just one year old and is seeking a forever family as loving as she is.

According to the Naperville Area Humane Society, she turns pink when she plays - and she loves to play all day.  Since Pink is very active, she requires a family that will be home and available to match her energy.  She does also require positive obedience training, but her intelligence in training will easily catch on.  Pink tolerates other dogs on a slim level and does not prefer cats in the house.  Her hyperness should ideally be matched by adults and children older than 12 - younger children will be intimidated.

Pink is very much the definition of the Dalmatian breed - if you will recall the history as stated in my post "Maxwell the Dalmatian."  Pink may be a hyper pup, but she is a puppy with a heart to melt any.

Do you have energy to spend?  Do you have positive training to impart?  Will you love this lovely angel?  If you adore the Dalmatian breed, stop by the Naperville (Illinois) Area Humane Society - 1620 West Diehl Road - or call (630) 420 - 8989 for more information.

Pink just wants a home. 

Staffordshire Bull Terriers on Petfinder

I believe in adoption advocacy.  Dogs (and cats) thrive in forever homes and loving families.

I hope that my promotion of available pups at PAWS Chicago helps even if only in the slightest of ways.  I am thrilled to say that three pups I featured on Puppy Love - Ham, Bisquick, and Blue - have in fact been adopted.

So I am here with Petfinder.com.  Staffordshire Bull Terriers have their own page on the United States-based adoption center, Petfinder.com.  If you loved Harvey and the history of adorable Staffies, visit http://www.petfinder.com/dog-breeds/Staffordshire-Bull-Terrier.  There may be a sweetheart near you!

Harvey the Staffordshire Bull Terrier

Today's daily puppy is Harvey the Staffordshire Bull Terrier.  Harvey is too much!  He looks like a most happy pup ready for play time or unconditional loving.

The Staffordshire Bull Terrier breed dates to the 19th Century in Staffordshire, England.  Coal miners needed a small, fast dog.  They crossed the Bulldog with a local terrier breed to result in the Staffordshire Bull Terrier known today.

The Staffordshire Bull Terrier is well-known for courage, obedience, intellect, affection, humor, and muscular strength for its small size at no more than 38 pounds.  The Staffordshire Bull Terrier is most affectionate with children.  An experienced owner is needed, however, for firm but gentle training.  It is interesting to note that the Staffordshire Bull Terrier is not ideal for families with young children because this breed requires all members to be firm and consistent in leadership.  Rules for the pup to follow must be the same when given by all family members.  Any deviations in rules and leadership will lead to difficult behavior to control. 

For more history of the Staffordshire Bull Terrier, visit the American Kennel Club at http://www.akc.org/breeds/staffordshire_bull_terrier/index.cfm.

The "Staffie," as is affectionately referred to, has a temperament of pure perfection.  They are eager to meet new people and allow strangers to come to them.  They tolerate other pets in the household.  (An experienced owner is needed to keep possible aggression around outside dogs at bay, however.)  

Staffie puppies love to chew.  Chew toys will be needed.  The strong jaw can bite straight through a toy to the source of the squeaking noise.  This can be dangerous if the plastic cover is swallowed.  The strong jaw is capable of doing damage to humans.  Do not encourage chewing hands.  Staffies are naturally curious.  Walks should keep them on a leash so as not to lose them.  

Staffordshire Bull Terriers are prone to cataracts and should be examined very early in puppyhood.

Staffies require constant exercise.  Apartment settings are fine as living conditions only if the dog gets daily walks.  Staffies are very active indoors, though.

Staffordshire Bull Terriers average 10 to 16 years in life expectancy.

To learn more about these "too much" Staffies, visit Dog Breed Info at http://www.dogbreedinfo.com/staffordshirebullterrier.htm. 

Dedication

Meet Red -



Red is an innocent Pit Bull Terrier angel at 7 years of age.  His precious innocence was taken away when he fought to save his owner from a robbery attack. . .Red was shot and lost all use of his back legs.  This little one truly proved a red badge of courage.  Red does not let his disability stop him, though.  His love for belly rubs, walks, and therapy sessions (walking on an underwater treadmill) prove that he is an adorable angel worth content happiness and a forever home.

PAWS Chicago declares Red to be a hero.  I agree entirely.  If your heart is open to a heroic angel like Red, visit PAWS Chicago (website with address under Puppy Love Links).

All pups deserve peace, love, and pure happiness.  Puppy Love always gives a pawfive to this sentiment and those who open their warm hearts to angel dogs.

Luna the Goldendoodle

Today's daily puppy is Luna the Goldendoodle.  Luna is a cuddly pup with a breed background that can easily be guessed.

The Goldendoodle is a Golden Retriever/Poodle hybrid.  It is interesting to note that to determine the temperament of a Goldendoodle, research each breed in the cross.  Characteristics results will combine.

For more information on the Goldendoodle, visit Dog Breed Info at http://www.dogbreedinfo.com/goldendoodle.htm. 

Dogs 101 : French Bulldog

Dogs 101 : French Bulldog is on YouTube.  The video, however and once again, is not available to be shared here.  Therefore, I will provide the link below.  Always remember that you can find Animal Planet videos on YouTube through standard Google or Yahoo search.  Simply type in Dogs 101 and the breed name when you are on YouTube.


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K5KIqlISk9Y

Puppy Training Guide

If you want more tips on puppy training, the link below provides a book written solely for housetraining little ones or older dog additions to a family.  I recommend this low-cost book as a supplement to tips provided in my earlier posts.

<a href="http://8c468fg1vcl8u49log0gu4fq89.hop.clickbank.net/" target="_top">Click Here!</a>

Nellie the French Bulldog

Today's daily puppy is Nellie the French Bulldog.  Nellie is adorably innocent and proud to be a French Bulldog, despite her breed's rather unattractive physical appearance.

The French Bulldog, in physical appearance, is compact and stocky.  Its head is square in shape with rounded forehead.  The jaw too is square with slight under bite.  The French Bulldog's eyes are prominent in appearance, but set wide apart.  The ears are described as "bat like."  The coat is short and smooth.

Although the French Bulldog may lack in striking appearance, this breed's behavior is simply breathtaking.  The "Frenchie," as is referred to, is well-known for a playful, alert, and affectionate temperament.  They are enthusiastic, but not overly hyper.  They are naturally curious and intelligent.  The Frenchie is most loved for having a sense of humor.  They react well around strange persons and dogs; although if believed to be dominant, the Frenchie can become aggressive in dog packs.  Similar to the Dalmatian (in fact exactly the same), the French Bulldog needs leadership to survive.  Owners must be authoritative to prevent behavioral problems.  Training is essential for the French Bulldog - its owner must be calm but firm, consistent but patient.  Authority is a strong requisite on the part of the owner when their dog misbehaves - affection must not be given as such reward encourages the wrong behavior.  Forever families with children can adopt a French Bulldog, but children must be able to reflect the same leadership as adults.

The temperament health of a Frenchie is relatively clean.  Most avoid potty accidents.  Most do not drool.  The weight of a Frenchie is relatively low - 19 to 22 pounds or 22 to 28 pounds (weight is divided into two classes).  Weight over 28 pounds disqualifies the French Bulldog breed.  French Bulldogs do come with health concerns.  This breed is prone to joint diseases, spinal disorders, heart defects, eye problems, and respiratory problems.  Due to the large head of a puppy, mother dogs often give birth by cesarean section.  French Bulldogs do not fair well in hot weather and are in fact prone to heat stroke.  Overweight dogs may have trouble breathing.  Overfeeding is not recommended.  Due to the extent of leadership and health issues, French Bulldogs are high maintenance and tend to come with extensive vet care.  This needs to be taken into consideration when adopting.  The life expectancy is 10 to 12 years.

The French Bulldog requires exercise akin to the Dalmatian - daily walks that train the dog to heel beside or behind the leader, who must be human.  Run and play expends energy.  Some can play for hours because of their higher energy levels.

The French Bulldog is suitable for apartment settings as indoor activity is just as content to burn off energy as a large yard.  Frenchies do not handle living in temperature extremes.

I now believe that Nellie the French Bulldog is adorable physically and in personality.  She, like all other breeds on Puppy Love, is just too much and one to love unconditionally...despite outer appearance.  For more information on the French Bulldog, visit Dog Breed Info at http://www.dogbreedinfo.com/frenchbulldog.htm. 

All About Dogs

December 2010 seems to be the month for Labradors.  December 2010 is my month for new favorites at PAWS Chicago.  Puppy Love indeed is all about dogs.  Meet Phifer, the Wallflower Chihuahua-Terrier & Bambino, the Constant Companion Cocker Spaniel -





These precious little ones have a history much like every breed written about on Puppy Love.  These little ones are very shy, unlike a few written about on Puppy Love.  Every pup here has a unique personality.  Dogs 101, the television program on Animal Planet, features every unique personality possible.  If you do not have access to the Animal Planet station, never fear.  Dogs 101 is in print format!  If you cannot get enough of Puppy Love, I encourage you to buy Dogs 101 - your purchase will be well worth it.

Puppy Love always gives a pawfive to those who support Amazon and all products dog.  : )

PAWS Chicago Labrador Retriever available

I am most excited to share a PAWS Chicago Labrador Retriever availability.  Meet Tiger Tom -



Mister Tiger Tom is a black-coated Lab (Labradors come in three colors).  He is nine years old, but does not let his age affect his "Goofball" personality.

I see silliness in Tiger Tom.  I see love and affection more.  Tiger Tom needs a passionate forever home.  If you are in the Chicago, Illinois area, stop by PAWS Chicago (address on website - see Puppy Love Links) and meet Tiger Tom in person.  You can also visit Tiger Tom online at the PAWS website.  Here, adoption instructions and fees can be found. Another option to connect with Tiger Tom is to discuss possible adoption with PAWS Chicago over the phone.  Their telephone number is listed on their website (again, see Puppy Love Links for site address).

Puppy Love needs your support.  Tiger Tom needs you more.

Puppy Love gives a pawfive to all pups adopted through PAWS Chicago.

Jack the Labrador Retriever

Today's daily puppy is Jack the Labrador Retriever.  Jack looks adorably content in happiness.  And his breed is so popular in December posts - Maddie the Golden Retriever, Mylah the Labrador Mix!

The Labrador Retriever is intelligent and family friendly - making this breed the most popular in the United States.  The Labrador Retriever is a hunter by nature and suits well as a guide dog for the blind, for narcotics detection, and for search-and-rescue.

Labs, as are known, were crossed with Setters, Spaniels, and other Retrievers and evolved over time to become true retrievers.  Labs are now bred to retrieve game and hunt in other ways.

The Labrador Retriever has a calm demeanor and pure love for its forever family.  Millions of Americans adopt and own Labs every year.

For more information on the Labrador Retriever, visit the American Kennel Club at http://www.akc.org/breeds/labrador_retriever/index.cfm. 

Puppy Training Tips : Part 2

Housebreaking Series - Part 2

"Potty Training"

- Begin with crates or other small spaces

- Monitored location. . .Circling and sniffing are signs that a dog needs to go

- When a dog shows an above sign, take them outside immediately and do not play until they go

- Treat and play AFTER

- Potty breaks generally are needed after meals, play time, and naps

- Small breed puppies need potty breaks every 30 minutes to an hour

- Large breed puppies need potty breaks every hour to hour and a half

*Tips by Tammy Reinarz, Owner of Tammy's Dog Training Service

Gringo the Australian Cattle Dog Mix

Today's daily puppy is Gringo the Australian Cattle Dog Mix.  Gringo's breed is very special to my heart because my Chessie (who I honor deeply in Puppy Love) had traces of Australian Cattle Dog in her.  May she forever rest in peace and forever be remembered in lovealwayschessie.blogspot.com.

The Australian Cattle Dog goes by many other names, such as the Australian Heeler or Blue Heeler.  The Australian Cattle Dog is meant to work and herd by nature.  Much like the Dalmatian breed, the Australian Cattle Dog needs daily exercise to expend energy, maintain an active mind, and keep potential behavior issues at bay.  This breed also requires leadership from puppy years on.  The Australian Cattle Dog is a worker, is highly protective, and is loyal to its forever family.

Break for a moment.  My memories of Chessie come from my family.  Chessie was an unusual dog, from her very early years to her grown years.  When my mother was pregnant wih me, she would rub against Mom's belly knowing somehow that a little one was to come.  When I was born, Chessie took on a partnered motherly role.  She let me play with her, tug at her ears, be as aggressive as a baby could be.  As long as she was near me, I could do virtually anything.  On one occassion, my grandmother was walking me in my stroller and Chessie was pressing alongside.  A suspicious stranger approached us with a threat towards me.  Chessie, as the intense protector, threatened back with deep growling and teeth showing.  She would not let anyone harm her baby or her mom.  There were many other moments of protectiveness and beyond sincere loyalty.  I love you, Chessie...lovealwayschessie.blogspot.com.

Dog Breed Info is an excellent source for all things Australian Cattle Dog.  If interested in learning more about this breed - Chessie's breed - visit http://www.dogbreedinfo.com/australiancattledog.htm. 

Puppy Crates

Every dog's personality is different.  Naturally, then, so too will be products purchased for your little one.  Amazon.com has approximately 888 choices for the search "puppy crates."  This blog post cannot possibly fit all results.  So. . .Check out the "puppy crates" search using my Amazon.com Search Box (bottom left-hand corner of the screen below Puppy Love Links, Google advertising, and Followers).

Puppy Love always gives a pawfive to Amazon Search Box users  : )

Puppy Training Tips : Part 1

Housebreaking Series - Part 1

"Tips for Housebreaking a Dog"

- Crate training will help a puppy not go "anywhere"

- Eliminate accident odors to prevent a puppy from tracking the scent and repeat error

- Keep an eye on a puppy to learn detection of imminent need to go

- Praise and treat for good behavior

*Tips by FidoDogTreats.com

Maddie the Golden Retriever

Today's daily puppy is Maddie the Golden Retriever.  Maddie is most adorably a puppy.  Guess what?  Her breed - the Golden Retriever - is discussed in the November Archives of Puppy Love.  If you would like to know about the Golden Retriever, click on the November link at the bottom right-hand side of the screen.  For this breed, you will find a history, a Dogs 101 video presented by Animal Planet, and a link to PAWS Chicago for the adoption of Blue.  Enjoy!

Dogs 101 : Dalmatian

So I had a bonus feature for the Dalmatian breed. . .Dogs 101 : Dalmatian YouTube video.  I was most excited to share this special post, until YouTube said the video I wished to share was not available.

With the history behind the Dalmatian and the knowledge I have come to learn, I am very much in love with this breed - and not because a puppy Dalmatian is "cute."  I have a healthy respect for the Dalmatian.

Therefore, I will post the YouTube link and hope dearly the video follows through upon click.  If not, however, you can always Google or Yahoo "Dogs 101 : Dalmatian" on YouTube.  Either way, enjoy!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-aw08uMKEgw

Dogs 101 : Australian Shepherd

Dogs 101 : Australian Shepherd has an Animal Planet video on YouTube.  A technical difficulty prevented me from sharing the video link here.  If you are most interested in the Australian Shepherd breed, Google or Yahoo "Dogs 101 : Australian Shepherd" on YouTube.  Enjoy!

Chloe the Australian Shepherd

Today's daily puppy is Chloe the Australian Shepherd.  Miss Chloe looks like a worker (but just too cute to act on her puppy chores).

The Australian Shepherd breed is in fact meant to work - herding livestock and working on a farm.  This sense of daily accomplishment settles the breed into content happiness.

The origins of the Australian Shepherd come with a bit of a shock.  This breed more or less came about in Europe, in the mountains between Spain and France.  The Australian name is linked to the breed for its relation to Basque shepherds who came to America from Australia in the 1800s.

For more information on the history of this "Ausssie" breed or to determine if you are a match for an Australian Shepherd, visit http://www.akc.org/breeds/australian_shepherd/index.cfm. 

Mylah the Labrador Mix

Today's daily puppy is Mylah the Labrador Mix.  Mylah is an adorable puppy with her golden floppy ears, gentle coat, and sweet face with loving eyes.  Yet she is not a pure Labrador.  She has a mix in her breed.

I put the guess to you - Leave a comment if you know the mix in little Mylah.

Puppy Love always gives a pawfive to comments.  : )

Puppy Love needs you

Puppy Love needs you.  If you love puppies and anything dog, please support my blog by following me.  The "Follow" link can be found in the bottom half of the screen (left side), below Puppy Love Links and Google advertising.

Puppy Love always gives a pawfive to supporters : )

101 Dalmatians

Although the Dalmatian breed is high maintenance, if you will, these puppies and older dogs are fundamentally and quite simply adorable.  Fall in love again with the classic Disney movie, 101 Dalmatians.

Maxwell the Dalmatian

Today's daily puppy is Maxwell the Dalmatian.  Maxwell, I am sure, is most loved by his forever family. . .as is his breed.

Puppy lovers know the Dalmatian breed from this image -



The 101 pups in the classic 101 Dalmatians Disney movie were adorable, loveable, and filled with energy.  Live Dalmatians have a personality true to their cinematic portrayal - playful, happy, relaxed, and loyal.  Like the movie, Dalmatians require human companionship for content happiness. 

The Dalmatian breed emphasizes extensive mental and physical exercise and socialization to keep otherwise hyper energy at bay.  Aggressiveness can occur if the breed dog is left without proper lead and instruction by their owner, hence making the need for human interaction that much more critical.

The Dalmatian breed is known for intelligence and requisite obedience with a high degree of training.

The Dalmatian breed is sadly known for being given away within the first year of ownership.  Puppies require so much early on to calm down by adulthood and therefore stay with their forever family.  Leadership and exercise are a daily must.  Walks must train the dog to heel beside or behind the walker - the walker must be the leader and the leader must be human.  Walks or runs will also prevent destructive behavior as energy will be exhausted.  Stern commands must be instilled (never abrasive).  A Dalmatian can be an excellent choice if a potential owner has - and they must have - time for training, authority for leadership, and energy to match.  If any or all of these human requisites do not meet and a Dalmatian is adopted on the sole basis that the puppy is "cute," ownership will be a waste and adoption will be a grave injustice to the dog.  All dogs, young and older, require a loving and personality-suited home.  Keep this in mind if you are considering adopting a Dalmatian.

The health of a Dalmatian is of considerable importance.  A relative percentage of newborn pups are deaf and all puppies should be tested for deafness at approximately 6 weeks of age.  Deaf dogs do adjust well, though.  Do not let their handicap sway the consideration of adoption.

Living conditions are important to recognize.  Dalmatians do not fair well in apartment settings unless their owners walk them several times a day.  Outdoor space is likewise needed for the dog to run and expend energy.  Dalmatians do not fair well in cold climates.

It is interesting to note that one litter is up to 15 pups.  Therefore, unless an owner desires a really big family, spay or neuter must be done.

A complicated history of the Dalmatian, as well as further information on the basics of the Dalmatian breed, can be found on Dog Breed Info at http://www.dogbreedinfo.com/dalmatian.htm.