Top 5 Most Loved Pets

For all you dog lovers, I subscribe to a newsletter by Sharda Baker. I originally subscribed when I got my little Yorkies about 2 years ago. She provides very good information on Yorkies but there is also lots information on health, food, medical and training for dogs in general. I highly recommend the newsletter.

She has given me permission to post her info on my blog (which I will do from time to time).

Today's newsletter will really help if you are thinking of adopting a dog.
Here's her list of the Top 5 most loved pets.  Sadly Yorkies didn't make her list.

The decision to adopt a dog is a very personal one. You may decide to take a puppy or a senior dog; you may want a guardian dog or wish for little and sweet-tempered companion. Whatever your motives, you have to decide what dog breed you will choose.

Dog behaviors and looks surely differ from one breed to another. But there is something more significant you need to take into account before adopting a pet. Dogs from each breed are prone to specific dog health problems and you will have to take care of them sooner or later in your dog’s life. Clearly, you need to have sufficient pet info well in advance so that you can evaluate whether or not you’ll be able to offer your future pal the best possible care.

Here is a list of the five most loved dog breeds along with a brief description and pet health information for each one.

5. Boxers. Don’t be fooled by their scary face – a German or Deutscher Boxer may be one of the most affectionate dogs you will ever meet. Their somehow scary yet cute face is distinct with its square muzzle, big understanding eyes and pointy ears.

Overall, boxers are medium sized – up to 25 inches tall and between 60-70 pounds. They are solidly built and muscular, very powerful and with extremely strong jaws.

Boxers are known for their happy, playful nature and curious personality. They are very intelligent, love to be trained and get along well with kids

If you are planning to adopt a boxer, have in mind that he or she may suffer dog health problems such as cardiomyopathy and other heart diseases, digestive disorders and skin allergies. Senior boxers are at a higher risk of arthritis, hip dysplasia, joint problems and cancer.

4. Poodles. If you are looking for an elegant, medium sized and highly intelligent companion, a poodle is certainly the dog you need. There are many things poodles are famous for but one characteristic of their character really stands out - the proud and dignified manner in which poodles carry themselves.

Poodles are also very friendly and get along with children and other dogs just fine.  But if dog daycare is not your priority, you may not want to adopt a poodle, as they need their owner’s attention in order to be happy.

Although having a poodle is highly rewarding, the constant need of grooming and the large range of genetic pet health problems (eye disorders, allergies, skin diseases, ear infections, PRA, Von Willebrand’s Disease) make many reluctant to adopt a poodle.

3. Shih Tzu. Small and hairy, these are one of the most loved dog breeds. The aristocratic origins of a Shih Tzu dog surely shows in his or her character - these dogs carry themselves with dignity, have distinct likes and dislikes and need time before they open their hearts to strangers or other pets.

As a Shih Tzu owner, you must be prepared for some respiratory dog health problems associated with your little pal’s unique face structure. Shih Tzu dogs don’t tolerate heat and are prone to a heatstroke. Ear, gum and tooth infections are also very common.

2. Pugs. If you are looking for a small, cute and sweet-tempered puppet for your children, than a pug is your best option. The most distinct features of these dogs are their deep wrinkles and huge understanding eyes. Their short cream or black colored coat is soft and silky.

The look of a pug completely corresponds to his or her character – playful, affectionate, lively and funny. Pugs are very sensitive dogs too so you will never need to punish them hard.

Pugs suffer from several dog health problems – eye and eyelid infections, eyeball prolapse, respiratory difficulties and heart problems.

1. Golden Retriever. Historically bread for its excellence in waterfowl hunting, today Golden Retrievers are the most popular pets, particularly among families with kids.

Golden Retrievers are medium sized, between 20 and 24 inches high and weigh between 60 and 80 pounds. They are known for their charming and friendly temperament and confident demeanor. Any Golden Retriever owner will confirm that these dogs are devoted to their human companions and very gentle with children.

Common dog health problems typical for this breed include bone and joint diseases, heart problems and allergies.

I hope that you enjoyed today’s newsletter.

Thanks Sharda!
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