Staffy Pups: How To Stop Your Staffy Overheating in The Summer

 
Staffy Pup Flo in Her Favourite Deck Chair

Staffy Pup Flo in Her Favourite Deck Chair

Staffordshire bull terrier dogs and staffy pups can and do overheat in the summer.
At the moment in the UK we are having a heatwave. Well put it this way we have had close to a week of sunshine which for us Brits means a heat wave!! :-)

Joking apart as a new staffy owner you need to be careful about your staffy overheating.

Flo our staff loves to run around and bake in the garden as often as possible. The trouble is a Staffys regulatory mechanism is not always as effective as it should be. As a result they can over heat.

Here are a few practical tips to help:

1. Stenuous exercise is best in the morning when it is cool. You can still take your staffordshire bull terrier for a walk and exercise only, avoid the mid day sun.

2. Make sure you have plenty of water for you and the dog when you are out and about. Save an old plastic container or go crazy and buy a trendy dog bowl. Make sure you encourage them to drink.

3. If your staffy is anything like ours they will love to hang out in the garden. If that is the case fine just keep an eye on them and make sure they have a bowl of water near by. Ideally in the shade.

4. Most Staffys are not that keen on water. Even so you can always resort to spongeing them down if they really do overheat.

The best thing is to keep an eye on them and make sure their stubborn streak does not allow them to bask for to long1!

To You and Your Staffy!!

Denise

 
 

Staffy Blog : Test Post

 

Grow thick anodyne flowers

This is a test post for the Staffy Blog

 
 

My Staffy Pup Has Eaten Chocolate What Should I do?

 

Rather than re-invent the wheel I thought I would share this article about dogs and Chocolate.

I hope it helps and proves useful. The key thing is don’t leave it in reach and dont feed it to your Staffy Pup in the first place! I know they give you that look. Just avoid it and give then a dog biscuit. It is much Safer.

About two years ago, my mischievous Manchester Terrier (Ziggy) raided a box of chocolates that fell from my kitchen counter onto the floor. By the time I discovered this mishap, Ziggy had gobbled about 4 small chocolates. I was in a panic. I knew chocolates could be very bad for dogs, but would 4 small chocolates be enough to kill her? I rang Ziggy’s vet immediately. The vet was very reassuring, telling me that chocolate was indeed toxic to dogs, but Ziggy had not eaten enough for her to be affected. I was relieved (and Ziggy turned out fine) but I was curious as to why chocolate was toxic to dogs and in what quantity.

Why is chocolate toxic to dogs?

I have since learned that chocolate contains theobromine, naturally found in cocoa beans. Although it is not harmful to humans, theobromine is highly toxic to dogs (and other domestic animals, such as horses). Theobromine is a stimulant (similar to caffeine) and so affects the central nervous system and heart.

How can you tell if your dog has eaten too much chocolate?
Although chocolate in small quantities is not harmful, as a precaution dogs should never be given any chocolate. Why? Have you noticed that people have a hard time eating just one potato chip? Well, the same goes for dogs and chocolate – one taste and they will want (and seek out) more.

Although you probably do not give your dog chocolate, accidents do occur. If your dog has eaten chocolate, the following information will help you decide what to do about it.

There are two main factors that will determine whether the dog will have a toxic reaction to chocolate:

(i) the concentration of theobromine in the chocolate compared to the dog’s weight; and
(ii) its individual age and health.

The concentration of theobromine compared to the dog’s weight

Milk chocolate and white chocolate have a smaller concentration of theobromine are therefore less toxic than dark or cooking chocolate.

Here’s a guide to each type of chocolate:

White chocolate: It takes 113.4 kilograms (250 pounds) of white chocolate to poison a 9 kilogram (20 pound) dog.

Milk or semi-sweet chocolate: Approximately half a kilogram (1 pound) of milk chocolate is poisonous to a 9 kilogram (20 pound) dog. As an example, it would take about 2-3 chocolate/candy bars to poison a 5 kilogram (10 pound) dog.

Cooking or baking chocolate: 57 grams (2 ounces) of baking/cooking chocolate is poisonous to a 9 kilogram (20-pound) dog.

Health and age

If the dog is aged or not at optimum health, its tolerance to chocolate may be lowered.

Symptoms of poisoning

If your dog has eaten a toxic amount of chocolate, it will show the following symptoms within the first two hours: vomiting, diarrhea or hyperactivity. The symptoms will then progress to increased heart rate, arrhythmia, restlessness, muscle twitching, increased urination or excessive panting. More dire symptoms include hyperthermia, muscle tremors, seizures, coma and death.

Treatment for chocolate poisoning

There are three steps in the first aid treatment of chocolate poisoning:

1. Induce vomiting

In order to do this you can give 1-2 teaspoons of 3% hydrogen peroxide every 15 minutes until the dog purges. Or, give it a single dose of 2-3 teaspoons of “Syrup of Ipecac”.

2. Administer an absorption agent

Once vomiting has been induced, it is important to immediately reduce the absorption of theobromine in the dog’s stomach. Therefore, give activated charcoal mixed with water. The dose is 1 teaspoon for dogs less than 11.3 kilograms (25 pounds) and 2 teaspoons for dogs weighing more than 11.3 kilograms (25 pounds).

3. Consult your vet

Advise your vet of the following details:

(i) how much chocolate the dog has eaten;
(ii) what type of chocolate;
(iii) how long ago the dog ate the chocolate;
(iv) the symptoms it is experiencing;
(v) the age and general health of your dog; and
(vi) any first aid you have given it.

It is a great idea to have Syrup of Ipecac, activated charcoal and 3% hydrogen peroxide in your pet’s first aid kit in case your dog eats a toxic amount of chocolate or other poison.

The author is not a vet, please consult your vet if you believe your dog has eaten chocolate or any other poisonous substance.

Mia Montagliani is the owner of two Manchester Terriers, Frodo and Ziggy. Mia is passionate about the welfare of animals and dogs. Mia is also committed to improving the relationship between owners and their dogs and helping dog owners train their dogs humanely, effectively and stress free. For more information, please visit http://www.YourDogNeedsYou.com. For regular updates, hints and tips become a fan of the “Your Dog Needs You” page in Facebook.

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

 
 

Staffy Bull Terriers: A Breed For Families

 

Staffy bull terriers as you might imagine are my favourite breed. For those of you who have not visited this site before this is the famous Staffy video you will all want to see.

To You and Your Staffy,

Best Wishes

Denise

 
 

Staffy Pup and Rottweiler Puppies

 

Staffy pups are all the same! Here is Flo! giving Bella a hard time…………..the latest addition to My nephews family.

This is bella a Rottweiler puppy. Next time these two meet I think bella might win!

Take care

Denise

 
 

Staffordshire Bull Terrier Puppies: Why They Are The Best Dog For Families

 
Staffy Puppies

Staffy Puppies

Staffordshire Bull Terrier Puppies: Why They Are The Best Dog For Families

Staffordshire Bull Terrier Puppies are one of the most popular dog breeds across the world. In fact in the United Kingdom they are one of the top ten most popular breeds. This has not happened by chance. The Staffordshire bull terrier is a much maligned breed and yet its popularity sores.

One reason for this is that they are an amazingly loyal and loving dog. That are devoted to their families. The Staffy comes from a terrier background and because of its history was initially used as a fighting dog. In fact that is where its name comes from they were initially used for bull baiting. However over time the role of the Staffy has changed and with the right owner they are the perfect house dog.

One of the main reasons for this is that Staffy bull terriers are fantastic with Children just look on you tube or Google Staffy with a baby and you will see many results. Staffordshire bull terrier puppies have a protective nature and are called the nanny dog by many. They are gentle souls in their own home environment. Being a terrier they are also bright and intelligent and are an easy dog to train.

Depending on the size of your home a Staffy could be the perfect dog for you. Though they are strong and muscular they are smaller than other dogs and are short haired. If you are a house proud Mum or dad this is also a bonus. Staffordshire bull terriers do moult though not as much as most other dogs.
So if you want a new dog in your family the Staffordshire bull terrier puppy might just be the breed for you.

To You and Your New Staffy Pup!!

Best Wishes

Denise

 
 

The Top 3 Dog Grooming Tips

 

By: Ellany B Cevan

It is important to find the best dog grooming tips before you purchase your pet. This way you can be sure you purchase all the necessary supplies and know exactly what your pet needs from you on a daily basis. Really, grooming a dog is not that difficult, and simply requires a bit of tender loving care.

1. Bathing Your Dog: When bathing your dog, it is important to make him or her feel comfortable. Otherwise you will spend more time fighting your dog to stay in the water than actually getting it clean. It is a good idea to bathe your dog outside rather than inside, and have lots of big, fluffy towels close at hand.

2. Trimming Nails: When trimming your dog’s nails, it is important that you do not clip to the quick and injure your dog. There are special clippers for dogs found in pet stores. Alternatively, you can purchase a mechanical file that will allow you to trim your dog’s nails slowly and without worry. This is best done after the bath, when the water has softened the nail somewhat, and with your dog comfortably and calmly in your lap.

3. Brushing the Dog: You should have a few different brushes available for brushing out your dog’s fur. This is best done when the coat is clean yet dry. Bristle brushes are good for maintaining the coat and bringing it new shine. Make sure the brush is comfortable in your hand, and have your dog lay in your lap or next to you to keep it calm and comfortable. Following these dog grooming tips will ensure your dog is healthy and well cared for.

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The Kennel Crate is One of the Best Housetraining Tools For Your Dog

 

By: Finius Flanders

The Kennel crate is the ideal tool for house training a dog. Keep your dog in their kennel overnight with plenty of bedding and water and your dog will do his or her best not to soil their living quarters. However, you have to remember to get up early in the morning to let them outside. It is not right for you to sleep late into the morning without letting your dog outside to empty his or her bladder!

When it comes to crate training your dog, there is a lot of misinformation out there. For instance, I know you’ve heard that if your dog soils their crate; you should leave them in the crate for thirty minutes as well as with their excrement. Do not do that! It is completely wrong and it is bad advice. The idea behind this tactic is to let your dog suffer in the kennel crate with their waste and it would be so unpleasant they would not do their business in the crate again. However, the truth is that it will be miserable for your dog to have gone through that, but it will also be much worse for you! You’re the one that’s going to have to deal with the odor and the big clean up job afterwards. Remember, your dog is going to step in the urine and feces and before you know it, it’s all over the place and the dog. Therefore, you’ll have more than the crate to clean. If you don’t already know, cleaning feces out of a dog’s hair is a very unpleasant thing to do. This training technique is poorly thought out and it hardly works. It just causes you to do extra work that you’ll blame the dog for. Dogs are very clean animals contrary to popular belief. A dog would try its best not to soil their houses, dens, or their sleeping areas. If your dog has an accident, most likely it is not their fault. In most cases, you did not let them out in time to do their business. The best way to remedy this situation is to let your dog outside on regular intervals. Be consistent and don’t let him or her regress.

When your dog is a little older, you’ll be able to put them in their kennel crate for brief periods if you have to go somewhere. Your dog will not soil the crate while you’re gone, but you have to take them outside as soon as you get home.

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How to Avoid Dog Biting Problems

 

By: Jayasiri K Opatha

Small puppies usually undergo the teething stage, that’s why they bite a lot. So, if you have chosen to acquire a young dog, you better prepare yourself for frequent biting. Ready yourself for the dog biting problems that you have to face. However, you do not really have to worry because even if puppy bites may be a little painful, they don’t cause any serious injury. Nevertheless, it is best to start training a puppy. Puppies are easier to train compared to older dogs. But it is more preferable not to take the puppy away from its mother until it is ten weeks old. At this age, it is only beginning to learn painful and non-painful biting. So, you better let it play-fight with its siblings first.

Then, once your puppy is old enough for training, you have to tour it around your house and your neighborhood. It needs to become familiar with its surroundings so it will know that it is secured. As you know, unfamiliar surroundings can prompt aggressive behaviors in dogs such as biting, gnawing, and barking. And you and your neighbors will not be pleased if it develops dog biting problems. So, you really have to introduce it to people and places around. You must also allow it to be touched and patted by your family and friends so it will know that these people are allies. Dogs have this predator kind of mentality, and it sees you as its ally. But you must also let it know that you are, in fact, the leader of the pack. So, it must listen and obey you at all times.

Then, you must prevent your dog from being stressed as stress can cause dog biting problems. You have to avoid leaving it alone in your house often, or leaving it in an unfamiliar place. However, leaving for work or travel is inevitable. So, be sure that you train your dog to become used being left in the house. You must also make sure that it does not get into fights with your neighbors’ dogs because this might also cause it to become stressed. In addition, you have to show that you love and care for it. You must give it enough attention everyday. It will appreciate even just a simple pat on its head or a rub on its tummy. But you must also walk it regularly and play with it often. You must talk to it and praise it, as well.

Moreover, you have to feed it everyday with nutritious foods. You can buy dog foods in supermarkets. These goods are especially formulated with the necessary nutrients that dogs need. But you can also feed it with cooked meat. Then, you must also not forget to reward it with delicious treats. Hot dogs or cooked pieces of chicken are recommended. So, if you follow these suggestions, you and your dog will have a harmonious relationship. And you will be able to avoid dog biting problems in general, as well.

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Does My Dog Think He’s a Sheep?

 

By: Michael J. Gettings

Almost every single dog eats grass sometimes, but some dogs consume it constantly. You’d think that vets might have a pretty good theory by now of the reason why dogs do it. Nevertheless they don’t, primarily simply because no one has established how to ask dogs 2 essential questions: “Do you enjoy the taste?” and “If grass tastes so good, how come you throw it up?”

If only your dog’s could possibly speak! But if you are like many pet owners whom reside in a grassy area you would declare at times that your dog is definitely an sheep! Dogs simply just lay out in the garden and eat just similar to a sheep. Why not eat it? After all, they eat everything else!

Most dogs are just not fussy with their preferences. They’ll polish off a serving of dry dog food, then simply move up to check if there’s something good in the garbage. In the event that they are still hungry, they’ll wander about to find out just what leftovers they can beg. This scavenging is often what drives them to have to eat the grass, as they have a upset stomach. In our case we have two dogs, Henry (a Beagle) who has a cast iron constitution, who if he actually ate grass it would be because it was simply something extra to eat. The other dog is Dexter (a Border Terrier), who seems to have a much more delicate constitution and who seems to be regularly eating grass because he is not well.

As I said, there is a good reason for their ‘liberal’ tastes. As opposed to cats, which evolved exclusively as predators, dogs survived by scavenging. When they couldn’t catch live prey, which ended up being a lot of the time, they would eat the dead animals left by other predators. They didn’t really care a lot if it was lying in the sun for a week or had been rotting under old leaves. Dogs plainly weren’t fussy, and most dogs today have not become any fussier. They are just as likely to like almost everything.

Moreover, there is certain evidence which indicate that dogs have cravings for particular food items. It’s actually entirely possible that dogs at times to have a urge to get vegetables, just as many people at times go to bed dreaming about meat loaf and fries. It isn’t as unexpected as it may sound. Grass was a aspect of their predecessors normal diets.

Pet dogs are omnivores, which means they feed on meat along with vegetation. They don’t require grassy vitamins and minerals anymore since most commercial dog food are nutritionally comprehensive. But dogs aren’t health professionals. They don’t know or care that they’ve already received their vitamin and mineral quotients via a serving of kibble. Their intuition will tell them that grass is good, so they eat it. Aside from, there’s a world of difference concerning fulfilling the minimal nutritional requirements and getting a perfect meal. For numerous canines, a chew of grass obviously tastes good. It’s like a salad – dogs eat some, then want further.

Also dogs that ordinarily do not eat grass may head immediately to the nearest spot of grass when they’re feeling unwell. They will eat a number of mouthfuls, retch, after which are sick, or at least try to be sick. Veterinarians nevertheless aren’t positive if dogs eat grass because their stomachs happen to be upset or if their bellies get nauseous after they consume grass. However, many vets suspect it’s the former, simply because pet dogs who are lively as well as buoyant seem to have the ability to eat grass while not getting ill later. It seems likely that there is something in grass that will stimulate the urge to throw up.

The dogs belly has got all kinds of neuro-receptors which react to exactly what the pet dogs ingest. They will react to acidity, chemical material, and textures. The texture associated with the grass has got something such as a tickle influence on the dogs tummy, which may bring on vomiting.

This kind of tummy tickle might explain precisely why healthy and balanced pet dogs could consume grass while not getting sick. The dog can have a mouthful, chew it thoroughly as well as swallow, after that reach down for a little extra. Pet dogs who’re ill, on the other hand, appear virtually desperate for the grass. These dogs do not chew it diligently and savor the taste. They simply can’t get it down quick enough. With no chewing, these prickly stalks hit their bellies all at the same time.

This might possibly be just what induces the urge to throw everything back up – in addition to what ever had been irritating their bellies to begin with. The dog just can’t stick their fingers down their throats like people could, and so eating grass is one thing that work well. As soon as pet dogs find something which is effective, they will usually stick to it.

Unless of course your dog is in the practice of regurgitating grass over the living area floor, there’s simply no cause to worry over it. Canines have already been eating grass for thousands or tens of 1000s of years, and there’s very little proof at all that it is bad for them. Which is not the case, nonetheless, whenever grass happens to be treated with insecticides, herbicides, or other chemical compounds. Most products and solutions state on the actual content label whether they’re harmful for pets. The point is, you need to certainly keep pet dogs away from grass soon after chemicals have been recently applied. Nearly all products and solutions break down fairly quickly, yet they might be very hazardous should your pet eats them when they’re fresh.

In the event of your pet eating recently treated grass, seek veterinary advice immediately.