Pitbull Guide

Thursday, July 31, 2008

The Staffordshire Bull Terrier

The Staffordshire Bull Terrier was a breed which was developed in the early days by crossing the bulldog with the terriers of the day. This produced a dog with a tenacious bite and seemingly limitless endurance for punishment. As early as the 1500s bull baiting and bear baiting was a "sport" in the British Isles. In modern times this has been abolished, but unscrupulous persons still participate in "pit fights" where dogs are pitted against each other and bets are placed. This is still going on in many parts of the world, even though the participants in most places are subject to heavy fines and jail terms.

Unfortunately because of the reputation of the pitbull types of dogs, the Staffordshire Bull Terrier has joined the ranks of those dogs which are outlawed in many communities. The truly bred Staffordshire Bull Terrier is less common, however, than the Pitbull Terrier and is bred by responsible breeders as a show dog. This has protected its existence somewhat, as many breeders will sell only to other breeders or on contracts that the dogs be spayed or neutered.

The Staffordshire Bull Terrier is one of the breeds which was originally bred to be a fighting dog. It has become more refined from the earlier specimens which were generally a mixed lot in appearance. The appearance of the Staffordshire Bull Terrier is blocky. The dog has the easy care short smooth coat common to these breeds and minimal care is needed to keep him clean. Colors can be red, fawn, white, black or blue, or any of these colors with white, or any shade of brindle or any shade of brindle with white. The skull is short and deep with pronounced cheek muscles making the head appear quite chunky. Ears are rose ears or half prick and small. The tail is not docked and of medium length. The front is broad with a deep chest and legs should be straight and not bowed as those of the Bulldog . The dog should be of medium size, standing 14-16 inches at the shoulder and weighing 28-30 pounds. If kept in good condition, this s a dog that can run for hours and makes a perfect joggers companion.

There are few genetic conditions. One of the benefits of the dogs' genetic inheritance is that its skin is tough and the dog is tough. Any wounds heal quickly and there are usually very few reasons for a Staffordshire Bull Terrier to visit the vet. Today the Staffordshire Bull has a uniform appearance and is being bred by true fanciers of the breed as a show dog and household companion. This particular breed generally has none of the qualities of aggression towards people that is sometimes exhibited by many of the other breeds of the "pitbull" origin. If brought up responsibly and socialized with people at a young age this breed is considered a wonderful companion for children. With its tail always wagging and its face always "smiling" the Staffordshire Bull will allow any amount of mauling from the children in the household and is an easygoing and friendly pet. He is generous in nature and forgiving, easy to train and willing to please.

Michael Russell Your Independent guide to Dogs

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Michael_Russell

Michael Russell - EzineArticles Expert Author

Sunday, July 27, 2008

Pit Bull Separation Anxiety

Some of my clients have complained that their eight week old pit bull puppy is crying through out the night. I mean... ALL NIGHT! You can hear the crying sound of your beloved puppy, once you have closed the gate. Some of the puppies will cry through out the night. This implies that your puppy is suffering from separation anxiety. Yes, you need to ignore it, don't yell.


Most of us think that separation anxiety is a poor dog health condition. No... you can easily manage this perturbing condition by following the following tips...

Your pup need to sleep in bed with you. The pit bull puppy likes to cuddle, and also the puppy wants to be held all the time. Maybe yours just wants to be with you, not alone.

Most puppies whine when they are alone at night, because they were used to being with their litter mates and mother. Once you have separated the puppy from its litter mate, this problem of whining will persist for couple of days.

If he's simply left alone in your home all day, he will sleep; then when you get home from work tired, he is a quivering, leaping dynamo of excess energy. So he/she will be active during the night and will create problem of crying in the night.

A simple idea is that fix a tick-tock clock. The sound made the pup to get sleep without crying.Make sure to give him a long walk every night about 30 minutes before he goes to bed so he gets tired.

Also, make sure he has a nice place to sleep on. A blanket, something soft, etc. A large stuffed toy might also be good for your puppy to snuggle up to at night. Good luck!

Friday, July 18, 2008

How to Know if Your Dog's Diet Contains Enough Fatty Acid

Does your pet's skin and coat look shiny and healthy, or is your dog's fur lacking the silky appearance you prefer? Could this indicate the need for more fatty acids in your dog's diet?


A dog's diet affects all aspects of his body including the skin and coat. If your dog's diet contains adequate amounts of fatty acids, his coat and skin should appear healthy. Fatty acids in your dog's diet will prevent trouble with dry skin and dandruff, for example. A dull coat may indicate a need for supplements of fatty acids in your dog's diet.

Studies indicate that essential fatty acids, called EFAs, contribute to healthy skin and coat, as well as general health. Omega 3 and omega 6 fatty acids, for instance, can play a critical role in your dog's overall well being.

Do not assume that adding fatty acid supplements to your dog's diet is always a good idea. If your dog's coat is in good condition, adding more EFAs will not automatically improve health. The fatty acid supplements, such as omega 3 and 6, are only for dog's with diagnosed skin problems. Always consult your veterinarian before adding a supplement to your dog's diet. Your vet will be happy to discuss with you the best form of EFAs and the appropriate dose to add to your dog's diet.

Fatty acids are not produced by your dog's body. For this reason, You must provide EFAs to your pet through your dog's diet. If your vet recommends additional supplements of fatty acids, you may want to ask about linseed or sunflower oil.

Within as little as four weeks, you should notice an improvement in your dog's coat and skin. Watch the wonder of fatty acids at work in your dog's diet. By the time seven weeks have passed, you will notice a dramatic change in your pet's health.

High levels of omega 3 fatty acids are thought to ward off some forms of cancer. Cardiovascular health and joint health will improve, as well, with higher levels of omega 3 in your dog's diet.

Typically, omega 6 fatty acids are present in manufactured dog food at adequate levels. Supplementing omega 3 will help to improve the ratio and make the difference for your pet. Fish and flax seed are excellent sources of omega 3 fatty acids. Again, be cautious and ask your vet before supplementing. Some forms of fish may not be safe as part of your dog's diet.

Supplementing your dog's diet may or may not be necessary. The only sure way to decide if your dog's diet needs extra essential fatty acids is to schedule an appointment with your vet to talk about your pet's health. Never medicate your dog without advice from a professional because your dog's diet must contain the proper balance of nutrients. Sources of EFAs include flaxseed, linseed, and sunflower oil. Higher doses of essential fatty acids can improve skin and coat issues within several weeks. Your dog's diet is the first step in providing your overall health and a happy life with your pet for years to come.

Friday, July 11, 2008

Tips on Pitbull Housebreaking


Housebreaking builds on your young pit bull pup's natural instinct not to foul the communal sleeping area. To carry it out successfully, you need patience, persistence, and understanding of your puppy's needs.

An 8-week-old pit bull puppy urinates approximately every two hours during the day. It empties its bowels three to six times a day, depending on the sort of diet it is receiving-an easily digestible diet, low in bulk, is best.

Housebreaking should start as early as possible. Place the puppy on a sheet of newspaper when it seems ready to go and be lavish with praise when it succeeds.

  • Let your pit bull puppy sleep in its crate until it goes all night without needing to relieve itself.
  • Never punish it when it has an accident indoors--it will only make it anxious.
  • Always praise or reward your puppy when it relieves outdoors.
  • Use a phrase such as as "there you go" when it is preparing to perform. This will encourage it to perform on command--useful when you are in a hurry or traveling with your puppy.
  • Do not carry your puppy outside. Go with it, but let it make its own way to the door.
  • Learn to recognize the signs that your puppy wants to go outside. Many puppies will circle and sniff around.

Thursday, July 10, 2008

Your Pit Bull's Diet: Canned Dog Food vs. Dry Kibble

A dog's diet affects every aspect of their health and well being. You undoubtedly want only the very best for your furry friend. When it comes to choosing the best for your dog's diet, you have so many options available. It can be hard to determine which food will have the most positive effect on your dog's diet and health. Which is better, canned dog food or dry kibble?

The debate between canned dog food and kibble has continued since the two varieties have been on the market. What are the advantages of canned dog food as the main component of your dog's diet? Is dry kibble superior to canned dog food? Possibly, it is simply personal preference between the two varieties.

To help you decide, let's take a look at the advantages of each type of dog food as part of a healthy and balanced diet for your pet. To get the best advice, schedule a visit with the veterinarian to discuss your dog's diet. The two of you can talk about how each type of dog food will specifically relate to your pet.

Canned dog food, as the main component of your dog's diet, has gotten a negative stigma over the years. Many pet owners feel that the cost of canned dog food is high and unappealing, especially for the larger breeds who require greater amounts of food daily.

A significant advantage of canned dog food is the quality. Frequently, you will find that canned dog food offers large chunks of real meat for your pet. Fewer additives and fillers are found in most brands of canned dog food. Knowing the importance of high-quality ingredients, canned dog food certainly has its place in a healthy, balanced dog diet.

Another advantage of canned dog food in your dog's diet is palatability. Dogs will commonly take to canned dog food quickly. This can be a true advantage when you are dealing with a picky eater.

Dogs who have trouble with oral health and chewing will find the moist food easier to eat. If you note your dog is struggling to eat the kibble diet, then canned dog food may be just the solution to your dog's diet problems.

Dry kibble also has advantages in a dog's diet. The dry kibble helps to keep your dog's teeth healthy by removing plaque and tartar. Excellent oral health for your pet can be easily maintained with dry kibble as the main component in your dog's diet. The moist dog food from cans do not provide the same benefit.

Storage of the dry kibble does not require refrigeration after opening. This can make traveling with your pet easier and more convenient.

Cost is yet another reason to consider dry kibble for your dog's diet. High-quality dry dog food is available to pet owners at a reasonable price.

Whether you choose dry kibble or canned dog food, you will always want to talk over the issue with your veterinarian. Canned food is great for picky eaters and pet's with difficulty chewing. Canned food offers high quality ingredients for your dog's diet. Dry kibble is inexpensive and helps promote good oral health. Providing your pet with the best nutrition is the first step in caring for your pet.

Sunday, July 06, 2008

How You Can Help End Pit Bull Puppy Mills?

1. Find a responsible breeder and visit their premises.

Responsible breeders provide a loving and healthy environment for their canine companions, but don't take their word for it. Never buy a puppy without seeing where they and their parents are raised and housed with your own eyes.

2. Don't be fooled by common claims made by pet stores when pushing their puppies.

Despite what they may tell you, pet stores do sell puppy mill puppies.

3. Don't be swayed by a great website or ad.

Just because a website says great things about their "home raised" or "family raised" puppies doesn't make it true. Many puppy millers pose as small family breeders online and in newspaper and magazine ads.

4. Consider Adoption

Adopting a dog instead of buying one is the surest way to strike a blow against puppy mills. To find the perfect match, you'll want to choose the right one for you and your lifestyle. Animal shelters have dozens of dogs, many of them purebreds, just waiting for homes.

5. Avoid the temptation to "rescue" a puppy mill puppy by buying him.

Even though your intentions may be good, don't buy a puppy with the idea that you are "rescuing" him or her. Your "rescue" opens up space for another poor puppy mill puppy and puts money into the pockets of the puppy mill. Pet stores won't leave their cages empty and websites won't leave their pages blank. The money you spend on your puppy goes right back to the puppy mill operator and ensures they can continue breeding and treating dogs inhumanely.

If you see someone keeping puppies in poor conditions, alert your local animal control authorities instead of buying.

Saturday, July 05, 2008

Pit Bull Heart Worms: How To Prevent?

Beef flavored chunks are available in addition to the beef flavored tablets or solutions that can be given orally to the pitbulls as a measure against the incidence of heart worms. Avoid mosquito bites by providing proper mosquito-proof shelter facilities to the pit bulls.

Just plan whether there is any need to go for the heart worm prevention though out the year or only in some months of the year. For example, in case of some countries, the mosquitoes may be dormant in most of the colder months.

However, in some countries, this is not a position. Many a times, medications are available for oral administration to prevent heart worms along with hookworms etc. Such oral medications need to be taken as per the instructions. However, be cautious about the occurrence of any adverse drug reactions in the pit bull given with such prophylactic therapy.

Adverse event reports need to be sent if you come across any sorts of adverse drug reactions in your pitbull during the preventive treatment.

Soft beef flavored tablets are highly preferred by the pet animals as the preventive measure against heart worms. The pet owner needs to consult a veterinarian if the dose for the prophylaxis of heart worm is missed for few months. In such occasions, the pitbull needs to undergo the heart worm test.

Heartgard, sentinel, interceptor, revolution, etc. are available in the commercial fields as drugs for the preventive measure. Avoid water stagnation around the dog shelter and the bushes around the area that facilitate mosquito breeding. This test needs to be carried out in consultation with a veterinarian who is specialized in the pet animal health care and medicine.

As a preventive measure for the heart worms, the pitbulls need to be tested for the evidence of these worms at an age of six months. Real beef chew able tablets are available containing medical agent like ivermectin.