supports the work done by the many organizations that help dogs, like SPCA organizations, Humane Societies, Guide and Service Dog Organizations, Rescue groups and Dog Clubs. All of these organizations and groups do a very important service under sometimes financially draining conditions. Please consider making a donation to the rescue group of your choice.
An undeniably impressive Artic Dog from the largest state in the Union, the Alaskan Malamute was originally bred to haul sledges across the icy tundra of Alaska for its Mahlemut keepers. Settlers in the region recognized the native sled dogs’ superior working ability and prized them for their speed and racing acumen. Although few Malamutes are used as haulers or racers today, the breed still retains the strength, determination and ability to perform as a working dog of great endurance. The breed’s abilities have been effectively harnessed to transform it into an exceptional pet and loyal family companion.
Dogs have been selectively bred for thousands of years, sometimes by inbreeding dogs from the same ancestral lines, sometimes by mixing dogs from very different lines. The process continues today, resulting in a tremendous variety of dog breeds.
Use this section to find out everything you ever wanted to know about any breed of dog! In addition to the more serious information about breed characteristics, care, and history, we have also included pictures and reader-submitted stories so you can have some fun while you do your research. We also encourage you to submit pictures of your dogs or any funny and / or interesting stories you might have about them — one picture and one story will be chosen each week and featured in our spotlight! Note: due to popular demand, we have recently added a list of dog breeds ordered by ease of training as well as a set of lists ordered by various criteria.
Arthritis is an inflammation of the joint(s) causing discomfort due to pain and stiffness of the joint that can be debilitating. The occurrence of arthritis could be due to genetics, environmental factors, or a combination of both. Arthritis can be caused by one or a combination of, the following: infection of the joint (septic arthritis), trauma, auto-immune disease (rheumatoid arthritis), the separation of a piece of cartilage in the joint (osteochondritis), or degenerative joint disease (osteoarthritis). Osteoarthritis is the most common form of arthritis. Diagnosis of the primary cause of arthritis is important to provide the patient with the appropriate treatment. Needless to say, early diagnosis of all forms of arthritis greatly improves the prognostic outcome of therapy.
Terrier breeds were originally developed to hunt rodents and other pests. Most terrier breeds originated in the British Isles where they were used to control rats, mice, foxes and weasels that raided chicken coops, grain storage bins and kitchen pantries. Their athletic musculature, strong limbs and wedge shaped heads made these breeds well suited for digging after burrowing animals. The hard hair around their mouths, as well as their tight facial skin, served to protect them from being bitten by their prey.