Havanese Colors - The Mystery That May Never Be Solved

The Havanese breed has, over the past ten years, had a surge in popularity, as you will find if you reference one of my other articles I have recently posted. Strangely enough, despite this overwhelming interest spike, there is still a looming mystery about the breed. Take a minute to search the Web for "Havanese puppies for sale" and browse a few of the sites that come up; you will soon discover a lot of similarities about the breed, namely, size, stature, weight, demeanor, and coat type to name a few. However, did you notice anything that is not similar? Did you pay attention to the color of these Havanese you were looking at?

The typical color patterns of the Havanese is so complex, that no one believes they have solved the implied mystery. If you compare this to other dogs, it becomes even more strange; in fact, most dogs have a distinct color pattern and almost always turn out to be the same variation in color. The Havanese, on the other hand, has no definite color pattern, or color for that matter. As it is stated by the American Kennel Club, "All colors are acceptable, singly or in any combination. No preference is given to one color over another. The skin may be freckled or parti-colored." [1].

Below I will list some of the common colors and color terms for the Havanese breed. This may help to familiarize you with how complex this attribute really is.

Colors:

White - A very common color to show up within a Havanese's coat; though it is very uncommon for a Havanese to be completely white.

Ivory - Almost an off-white color.

Champagne - Beige with yellow undertones. Slightly darker than Ivory.

Gold - A darker beige/caramel color with red undertones.

Silver - A very obvious tone of grayish/platinum will appear after about a year; most dogs are not born silver.

Blue - A very pronounced bluish/silver color.

Charcoal Blue - A dark charcoal black with definite blue undertones.

Black - Pure black with no undertones.

Chocolate - Any form of chocolate that is consistent throughout the coat.

Mocha - A chocolate color with some blue/silver undertones.

Chocolate Silver - A chocolate color with even more exemplified silver undertones.

Dilute Chocolate - A very light chocolate. Chocolate mixed with extra cream or white.

Color Markings:

Brindle - Almost like tiger stripes.

Sable - Dark overlays a light coat. Darkened tips may also be present, but faint.

Agouti - Banded or ring shaped hair colors.

Saddle Tan - From the shoulders back is darker than the rest of the dog.

Please refer to the article below to find specifics and pictures.

[1] American Kennel Club, The. "American Kennel Club - Havanese". 7 May 2001. http://www.akc.org/breeds/havanese/index.cfm
[2] "Colours of the Rainbow". http://www.mts.net/~mckay55/rainbow.html

I would like to thank you for taking the time out to read this article and would enjoy it if you read future articles I publish on the Web. If you would like, you can visit my website at Havanese Puppies For Sale

Thanks again!

The Havanese Puppy- Where Did it All Start? Part 2

The popularity of the Havanese breed increased in Cuba throughout the 1900's. The Havanese breed really is the perfect house dog that is very affectionate, good natured, and has a beautiful silky coat. Their coat is so silky that these puppies are referred to as "Havana Silk".

One thing to note is, that the wealthy Cuban society loved the Havanese not only for their Wonderful features and affectionate nature, but also for their high intellectual capacity. The Havanese Puppy is highly intelligent and is very skilled at performing tricks and following commands.

Just as the Bichon breed of dogs have been circus performers for hundreds of years. The Havanese was certainly no exception and often danced around and performed tricks for their wealthy owners that were entertaining and delighted guests.

The Havanese breed is instinctively great at performing which led this breed to become a top show dog. Cubans have focused on the show dog capabilities of the Havanese breed causing a surge in the breed's popularity. This popularity skyrocketed in the late 1990's and continues to increase.

Unfortunately such a quick rise in success and popularity of a breed can also lead to unscrupulous breeding practices. As a means to try and prevent and combat this issue, the Cuban Club of the Bichon Havanese was founded in 1991. This organization created breeding guidelines to help keep the integrity and health of the Havanese breed in tact.

The Havanese came to America in the early 1900's. However, the breed didn't catch on until the 1970's. This rise in American popularity can be attributed to the influx of Cubans in the 1960's. The immigrated Cubans brought over their love and support of this breed to the United States.

The Havanese Club of America was then founded in 1979. You can check out more information regarding the Havanese Club of America by going to their website.

The Havanese has been around for hundreds of years, but was officially recognized relatively recently. For example, the Havanese breed was recognized by the United Kennel Club in 1991. While The American Kennel Club recognized the Havanese breed in the "Toy" category in 1996.

Fiona

Fiona Kelly is a passionate Havanese owner that has devoted countless hours sharing her secrets on how to have the perfect, happy, healthy and best behaved Havanese. If you?re interested in the Havanese then you can check out her web site at http://www.havanese-puppy-guide.com/ The Author grants you permission to re-print or re-publish this article so long as it remains unchanged and all links remain present and active.

Become Linkable In The Ecommerce World

The secret to any successful ecommerce business is simple: be unique, have great content, and for the love of mankind, be interesting. That's a no-brainer process if you are selling Teacup Maltese puppies. However, not everything marketed on the web is cute and cuddly.

What I am going to teach you can apply to any ecommerce business, whether you're selling consumer products or B-to-B products. However, I would really like to reach out to my fellow ecommerce business persons who have it rough out there. You offer something bland, something that hundreds of others may offer, or something that isn't naturally interesting. Yes, no matter how boring your product, you too can become likable, therefore linkable, in the ecommerce world.

As Boring as You Want to Be

So what if 50 other online stores sell the same thing? So what if not everyone falls head-over-heals for a site titled Paperclip World? Just because you don't sell the hottest big-ticket items, it doesn't mean you are destined to be the Ben Stein of the ecommerce business trade.

I am going to give you an example of the blandest online business and show you how I can make it relevant, interesting, and a conversion-rate magnet.

All right, hold my hand. Here we go...

Taking the Yawn Out of Your Product

Welcome to Staplers Unlimited. Browse through their store and you will see they use the all the standards. The pictures are straight from the manufacturer, along with all of the other information, including the pricing, data, descriptions, and titles. That's all they use. The manufacture sends it over, they slap it on their website. Oh, wait. Don't forget the "Add to Cart" button. There we go.

Yawn... What value has Staplers Unlimited added to their site? None, zip, zero. There are probably, oh, 100, 500 other pages exactly like this one.

So, what is Staplers Unlimited offering to inbound links? Well, if their product was entirely unique (not the case here), or they offered the lowest prices online; then maybe that would attract some links. Or maybe the online store could pay for links, or link with those who have a vested interest. But, that is not very attractive to search engines.

Putting all those possibilities aside, they still have one major problem: their content is duplicated. They copied everything exactly as the manufacturer sent it. The same content that their manufacture sends out to all of its ecommerce providers. Stop doing that!

This problem is easily fixable, and it doesn't take a whole lot of effort to fix it.

The Big Six that Create Excitement

Below are six steps that will give you compelling, unique, and linkable pages for your ecommerce site that:

1. Add some creativity to your title. Be careful with this because you want people to type it into the search engine and get exactly that on your page. If the name of the product on this page was Mini Staplers, then you want that in your title. You can add a few other unique words to it, but keep it simple. If you don't want to change the title, you can add other interesting descriptions elsewhere on the page.

2. Change up your images. Avoid using the images the manufacture sent you, and snap some photos of your own. Take photos from all angles. Use the packaging, snap pictures of someone using the product. Once you are done, you have a ton of unique images that only you have the rights to. Offer multiple images for your products and provide customers with the ability to enlarge the photos.

3. Write descriptive text that hooks your customers. Write compelling content that is irresistibly fun to read. Make your content so unique that web users stop by your site, sign up for your newsletter, and browse your products just to read your content. Give people a sense of personality, and provide a voice for your brand.

4. Research sales trends. Find out when people are buying your products, how much they buy at particular times, and what else they are buying along with those products. Extract interesting data that they can share with others who might write reviews about it, link to it, because they will make your page more interesting.

5. Offer product comparisons. Show your customers what features one product has up against another. It makes shopping easier for your customers, adds unique value to your site, and provides a trusted place for people to no only buy your product, but conduct valuable research.

6. Your final weapon against a boring site is user-generated content. You can get super creative with this. Have users write reviews, offer a star ranking system, "like" and "dislike" buttons, etc. The content they write themselves can be generated in different form fields. "Pros and Cons", "When was it purchased?", "What was your experience like?"; your options are endless.

Conclusion

I just provided you with six easy ways to create a unique and linkable ecommerce site without a ton of added work. I can't wait to browse your site and see how you have used my advice.

"Want more free information? Feel free to get all sorts of top-notch internet marketing tips about ecommerce and much more on the E1KAD a blog, or visit the main Earn 1K A Day site.

How To Find A Good Breeder Of Hybrid Or 'Designer' Dogs

Before you buy that special dog of your dreams...

...how do you tell the difference between a responsible breeder and an unethical one? Unlike breeders of purebred dogs, there are no credible associations or organizations for the multitude of new designer dogs... and the national kennel clubs like the A.K.C. and C.K.C. don't recognize these purebred mixes.

There are a number of signals you should watch for when you're looking at a new dog; check out these hints and above all, listen to your gut feel. There are plenty of scam artists in the animal industry, so buyer beware!

Truly "home raised" puppies

The puppies should be raised inside the breeder's home as part of the family, not stuck in a kennel, garage or basement with little visits to the "big house." These tiny pups are meant to be household pets not yard dogs!

Small breeds like Morkies must stay with their mother until they're at least 8 weeks old. They need the nutrition, being so small and they also need to continue to develop good social skills from mother and siblings during this important period. A puppy removed at 5 or 6 weeks old is likely to be a biter, pushy and aggressive. And watch for the unscrupulous breeder who presents 5- or 6-week-old puppies as "teacup" Morkies who are supposedly 8 or 9 weeks old! Sadly it happens more than you know.

Parent dogs should be screened for disease

Both parents -- the Yorkshire Terrier and the Maltese -- should have been tested for the specific health problems are a concern in their breed, as well as those hereditary health problems that are common to both breeds. Those tests include X-rays, eye tests, cardiac ultrasounds, blood tests and even DNA tests. Enquire - and ask to see documentation that at least most of these tests were undertaken and the parent dogs passed them.

Where you should NEVER look for a puppy

In a pet store. Even if if the manager assures you the dogs are from a good breeder; they're not. No halfway decent breeder would put her puppies into a pet store environment. Pet store dogs are bought wholesale from puppy mills.
Online... o.k. it's alright to LOOK online for available puppies, but never complete the deal online by sending money for a puppy that's going to be shipped to you. That's almost certainly the mark of a puppy mill dog.

The problem with Puppy Mills

Puppy mills, as the name suggests, churn out pups under extremely cruel and inhumane conditions, for one purpose only: the almighty dollar. It is estimated that there are 4,000 puppy mills in the U.S. that produce more than half a million puppies a year!

That's 30 to 40 litters each and every year, per puppy mill.

The dogs are underfed, abused and never given medical care. Hybrid dog production is particularly horrible - if the mother dog is the smaller of the two mixing breeds - say she is the Yorkie in a Yorkie-Pug mix, it's likely the puppies will be too large for her to deliver. No problem - the mill operators simply slit her belly without anesthetic and pull out the puppies. She's stitched back up. If she lives, she'll be bred again at the next earliest opportunity. If not, "oh well" is the operator's motto, since there are hundreds of other dogs in the facility.

Other warning signs that you're probably dealing with a puppy mill:

The "breeder" is local, but no, you can't visit. Instead, he or she wants to meet at a halfway point, a mall or car-park.
You can visit - and you see 3 or more different dog breeds running around. This is a red flag that the breeder isn't committed to one breed or hybrid and is just breeding whatever dogs she has to make money.
Dirty or stinky facilities. Genuine breeders love their dogs and put their care first. The home and puppy area should be clean and tidy and a safe environment for the puppies and parents.
Hand painted signs on the road, advertising puppies for sale
Puppies are always available, and the breeder will let you take one at Christmas, Easter, etc. No good breeder will release a puppy during these very high-stress times and no responsible breeder always has a handy supply of puppies

Stay away from anyone who's selling puppies at a public place like a flea market, yard sale, swap meet or pet store, or out of the back of a pickup truck, car, or van.

Be suspicious of the breeder who doesn't demand that you spay or neuter your puppy. A genuine breeder will ask you to sign an agreement that your dog will NOT be bred.

More red flags:

The puppy is dirty, matted or has a poor coat. Poop stains around the rectum.
The breeder wants cash only.
The breeder asks you very few questions about your home and lifestyle.
There is no written health guarantee.

If you see any of these warnings, then do walk away from the deal no matter how cute that little pup is. Otherwise, you could be in for years of heartbreak, and meanwhile the puppy mill or backyard breeder will backfill with new puppies.

Legitimate breeders on the other hand, are very interested to know that their pups are going to responsible owners and will be glad to talk about their dogs, sometimes at length!

Deb Gray is a self-taught expert and confessed lover of Yorkshire Terriers, Maltese and their crossbreed, Morkies. Learn more about making these dogs your perfect animal companions at Deb's sites http://www.justmorkies.com and http://www.yorkie-maltesemix.com You'll find practical advice, hints and down-to-earth tips; resources; forums and unique sources for gifts, equipment and more.

Havanese Care

Many dog owners have found that the Havanese can be a wonderful choice for a family pet. These compact creatures get along well with adults, kids and other animals, are generally friendly, inquisitive animals that are usually ready to play. If you are thinking about bringing one of these cute puppies home to your family, the first thing you will want to do is brush up on the basics of Havanese care. This way, you will be prepared to give your pup the best environment possible for him to grow up healthy and happy.

Like any breed, these dogs come with specific Havanese health concerns that can be genetic problems for the breed. By becoming familiar with these potential problems, you can find a breeder that offers dogs without the genetic predisposition to some of them. You can also remain vigilant with your own Havanese, so that you can head to the vet at the first sign of a problem. Other Havanese care to educate yourself about include grooming issues and diet and exercise.

All purebred dogs come with a handful of medical problems that they have a genetic predisposition to, and the Havanese is no exception. Part of taking responsibility for Havanese health is to be aware of these problems before you ever begin the selection process for your puppy. Some problems like cataracts, patellar luxation (a slipping of the kneecap) and hip dysplasia can be kept to a minimum through responsible breeding practices. It is important to ask your potential breeder about these problems to find out if he has had any of them appear in his lines of dogs.

Once you have found a Havanese puppy with a low risk of these issues, you will still need to practice regular Havanese health habits to keep your dog looking and feeling his best. Grooming is a very important routine with these dogs, with daily brushings and monthly baths. You might prefer to clip the coat of your Havanese to keep it shorter and easier to maintain, and this can be done through a professional groomer or at home if you learn how to give doggy haircuts.

A nutritious diet is an important component in good Havanese health. Your breeder or veterinarian will probably have some suggestions and recommendations in this area, but it is generally thought that a high-quality commercial food from the pet store will be sufficient. It is best to keep your puppy on the same food that he ate at the breeders, at least during his first few weeks with you. If you decide to switch foods for any reason, gradually transitioning your pup to his new food by adding a little at a time to his dish will help to prevent tummy troubles from the change. Some dog owners are finding too many unhealthy ingredients in manufactured dog food, and are changing their pets to a raw food diet instead.

Along with the nutritious diet, your pup will need regular exercise, and he will enjoy it more if he gets to do it with you! Take him for a walk every day, or play a few rounds of fetch in the backyard. With daily exercise, regular grooming sessions and a healthy diet, your pet will be the healthiest and happiest that he can be.

Fiona Kelly is a dog owner, breeder, and avid studier - particularly of small dog breeds. Havanese are a wonderful small dog breed characterized by its lack of shedding, good temperament, and good general health. If you are seeking information about what to expect with the Havanese this article will provide it for you.

Havanese Dogs and Their Owners

In the 1900's the Havanese dog went through a rough time as a breed. Since then, this dog has grown in popularity as a companion and a family pet, particularly in the United States. When this breed was harder to find, the cost of the Havanese dog had gone up considerably. Today, despite the increased availability of the breed, you can still find Havanese pups for as much as $1000. One of the biggest reasons that this breed is so sought after is the personality of the Havanese.

If you are looking for a pet that will always be ready to play, will show unending loyalty to his family and keep you entertained regularly, then the Havanese is the dog for you. They also tend to work well in homes with children and other pets, although their small size can put them at a bit of a disadvantage. Don't let that small size fool you however, Havanese dogs are fairly fearless, and make surprisingly good watchdogs. Their energy and playfulness will remain with them well into adulthood as well, so you don't have to worry about your Havanese pup slowing down any time soon.

Intelligent, submissive and eager to please his master. These characteristics are typical in the Havanese breed, which makes it easy t train most of the time. However, housebreaking a Havanese can be a more challenging process than with other types of breeds. Most breeders and Havanese owners will advise someone purchasing a Havanese puppy to allow plenty of time and patience to complete the housebreaking routine. One reason is because Havanese pups do not always leash train well, meaning they may not complete their "business" when enjoying a walk with you.

If you are having a hard time getting your Havanese pup housebroken, one method that has worked with some Havanese owners is the use of a litter box that is designed for use with toy dog breeds. Do not ever use regular cat litter in your dog's box, since he could eat it and get sick. Instead, you can use a hard, cylindrical paper pellet that will actually attract your dog to his box. It is also important to make sure that you spend plenty of time with your puppy, since a lonely dog can easily turn into a chewing dog.

If you are looking for a new pet for your family, and you are hoping for a dog that will be easy to train and fun to own, a Havanese puppy might be the right choice for you. This dog is submissive by nature, eager to please, and intelligent to boot. He is generally a pup that will always be ready to play with your family, and never lacking in energy. Often Havanese are natural performers and your pup may entertain you frequently with his antics. He will be loyal and loveable, and despite his small size, he may make a fairly effective watchdog.

Most Havanese tend to be fearless, and even fierce when the situation calls for it. If you are thinking that a Havanese puppy might be the right dog for you, there are plenty of Havanese breeders available who can offer you one of these pups in good health and with good breeding. To find a breeder, you can search online or ask friends or your veterinarian for recommendations. It is also a wise idea to continue to research the breed, so that you can learn everything possible about the Havanese dog.

Fiona Kelly is a dog owner, breeder, and avid studier - particularly of small dog breeds. Havanese are a wonderful small dog breed characterized by its lack of shedding, good temperament, and good general health. If you are seeking information about what to expect with the Havanese this article will provide it for you.

What to Do With Cute Puppy Pictures

You just got your first digital camera and you are raring to take it on a test drive. Good thing you also have a cute puppy as a subject of your soon-to-be hobby. But after all the hard work of taking the picture of your puppy, what do you do now with your puppy pictures? Sure, they are cute but do they have a use that you will devote your time in taking them and money printing them? If you want answers on what to do with your puppy photos then here are some ideas that should help you out.

Decorative Ornaments

Add a cute factor to your home by framing your puppy photos and putting them in your living room, foyer, or den. If you are really a dog lover then you can even put it in your bedroom to commemorate your love and friendship with man's best friend. These cute puppy photos can add the warmth factor to your abode that gives off a comfortable aura to anyone in it -- may they be guests or part of the household. It will also be a good topic of conversation when guests come to visit your lovely abode.

Cute Advertisements

If you are a dog breeder then putting cute puppy photos to your puppies for sale signs can up your sales. Buyers will be more enticed to get a puppy from you if they see photos of your adorable commodities. Who can resist buying a pup after seeing them in cute and adorable positions? No one!

Collection

If you are a dog lover then you have found a new collection. Puppy photos are a good collection especially if they are pictures of your precious little dog. Create a scrapbook or just buy a photo album to collate all the adorable pictures. Looking at them when your pup is all grown up and has become the ferocious guard dog he really is will surely bring back poignant memories of those once upon a time days.

Business

The dog people outnumber the cat people in plenty of digits. This statistic alone is a good reason to take those puppy photos and selling them to this good market. Sell them in garage sales in your own home. Or up your entrepreneurial endeavor and put them in pretty frames and selling them to gift shops to up their market value. If that is too tedious for you then the Internet is always a good way to start this little business of yours.

http://anamigo.com/ -- Puppy Photos

Vanessa A. Doctor from Jump2Top - SEO Company

Is the Havanese the right Puppy for you?

Choosing the right dog for your home is a very important decision. You need to gather as much detail about the breeds you are considering as possible. The Havanese is a rapidly growing breed in terms of popularity. This then begs the question as to why? Lets look at some of the Physical Characteristics of this breed to determine if this breed is in fact a great choice for your home.

Physical Appearance Of The Havanese

1. General Appearance

Lets start by considering the standards set by the American Kennel Association. These are guidelines that breeders and dog show competitors must adhere to in order to succeed in the dog show business. You can obtain a more detailed listing of Havanese standards from the American Kennel Association.

The Havanese is small and sturdy in stature. The body of a Havanese is slightly longer than tall. A Havanese has untrimmed long, silky, wavy hair. Their coat is of a texture that does well in warm tropical climates. They have hair that falls over their eyes. This longer hair is usually not tied into a top knot because it can act as a protective layer from the bright sun. They have a plumed tail that is carried loosely over their hindquarters.

2. Physical Characteristics

The Havanese breed is a small dog. The Havanese is 7-13 pounds in weight. The American Kennel Club breed standard is more specific as to the proper size of a Havanese. According to the American Kennel Club a Havanese should be:

"The height range is from 8½ to 11½ inches, with the ideal being between 9 and 10½ inches, measured at the withers, and is slightly less than the length from point of shoulder to point of buttocks, creating a rectangular outline rather than a square one."

The Havanese breed should have large dark brown almond shaped eyes that are set widely apart. They have medium length ears. The breed is small in stature, but is by no means fragile.

3. Coat and Color

The Havanese has a soft, long-haired double coat. The Havanese can vary in color including: cream, gold, silver, blue, and black.

It is essential to brush your Havanese daily so that their hair doesn't become matted. It may take time to get your Havanese used to the daily brushing, but once they do, they might actually enjoy it. Make sure to keep their face clean as their eyes may produce a small tear discharge.

4. Gait

A Havanese is a toy dog with a spring in their step. This extra spice in their step is due to a strong rear drive paired with flashy front action from their upper arms.

The American Kennel Club depicts the Havanese gait as lively, elegant, resilient, and unique.

5. Showing Faults that Result in Disqualification

When showing a dog the judges are very cognizant of any "unacceptable" faults of the Havanese. Faults associated with physical appearance include the following characteristics:

o Height at withers under 8½ or over 11½ inches except that the minimum height range shall not apply to dogs or bitches less than twelve months of age.

o Complete absence of black (or chocolate in the chocolate dog) pigmentation on the eye rims, nose or lips.

o Coarse, wiry coat.

An atypical short coat on an adult. (Atypical refers to a smooth, flat coat with, or without furnishings.)

Remember these "faults" are of most concern for show dogs. You can raise a Havanese that doesn't bring home a dog show trophy, but will provide you with companionship, dedication, and protection.

As you continue your search for the RIGHT puppy to get, you really need to consider the Havanese Puppy. If you want more information about this dog, then visit http://www.havanese-puppy-guide.com

Fiona

Fiona Kelly is a passionate Havanese owner that has devoted countless hours sharing her secrets on how to have the perfect, happy, healthy and best behaved Havanese. If you?re interested in the Havanese then you can check out her web site at http://www.havanese-puppy-guide.com/

The Author grants you permission to re-print or re-publish this article so long as it remains unchanged and all links remain present and active.

Friendly Havanese Puppy Cut Advice

There is much to understand in terms of caring for your Havanese puppy, including everything from their history to their grooming. The Havanese was not bred in the United States until about the 1970's and it wasn't until 1991 that the UKC recognized them. While the Havanese does make great show dogs, they are also wonderful house pets, ready to love and please the people around them.

But, for those not prepared, Havanese grooming can be somewhat of a shock if not properly informed ahead of time. The ideal Havanese puppy cut is a short cut and is best for those who do not plan on putting their dogs in shows, as this serves as the most practical choice in making it easier to brush and maintain the puppy. It is best to fully understand the different cuts for your puppy. With proper knowledge, you will have a happy, friendly, and well-trimmed dog for many years to come. But without, you could have a dog with matted hair, which ultimately leads to shaving. This is why the Havanese puppy cut is most preferred.

You will want to begin grooming your Havanese as soon as you bring your puppy home. This allows you to train your puppy very early on as to how to properly behave during cuts and daily grooming. This is to not only to prevent accidents from happening, but also to make sure that the grooming process is one that does not bring stress upon him or her. While those who want to have their dogs in shows will keep the hair long, this is a high maintenance look. If you are not planning on showing your dog, the Havanese puppy cut is probably the best for you and your little one.

Even with the shorter cut, you will want to keep up regular brushings as this promotes new growth of hair. It also helps their skin and coat when you brush them as the natural oils that are produced are spread about. Grooming your Havanese will also allow you the chance to inspect your dog's skin condition. Whether there is a wound or fleas, these problems will need to be noticed quickly. With the Havanese puppy cut you will still want to brush them 3 or 4 times a week.

Knowing now that proper grooming is essential for a happy and well-trimmed dog, having the knowledge to actually achieve it is another thing. It is not hard at all but there are a few key tools that every owner of a Havanese should have on hand whether they have the Havanese puppy cut or not. Every house with a Havanese should have a flea comb, a pin brush, a small soft slicker brush, and or course a combination comb. With these tools, you will be able to keep your dog's Havanese puppy cut in top shape.

But how does one go about achieving the puppy cut? It is actually a lot simpler then most people think. The key thing is to leave the ears and tail fully feathered as this gives the playful feel to the overall cut. And the rest is cut down to about one inch. These allows easier grooming and gives a soft look to your little friend. Both you and your puppy will be pleased with this style. It is also important when cutting that your puppy in placed on a towel or mats on top a steady table to prevent falls.

Having the knowledge about the Havanese puppy cut and puppy care as Fiona Kelly does, it is only natural that this passion is shared with others. Knowing that many people consider their dogs as another member of the family it is important to understand proper Havanese grooming so that the puppy can have a coat that is clean and family friendly. This often means using the Havanese puppy cut. And while you don't need a lot of Havanese grooming supplies, there are a few that are a must have in order to keep up the Havanese puppy cut.

Can Your Dog Do Tricks? My Havanese Can

Dog shows are one of the fun and intriguing events that a dog lover can watch or partake in. When you see the dogs on television listening to and understanding their handlers, you are probably wishing that your dog could be that smart. Many people think that only certain breeds are smart enough to listen to their handlers. The truth is, all dogs like to please. Sure, there are breeds that are more gifted than others, but with a little bit of work and some know how, you can make a trickster out of your dog.

One of the myths of the smaller breeds are that they are not intelligent dogs. From my work with these dogs, I can certainly attest that they are no less intelligent than your average dog. The Havanese, whom I have great affection for, are particularly intelligent and love to please their owners. Their obedience is second to none for the small dog breeds [1]. These attributes make for a dog that can learn tricks.

Havanese are quick to learn the basics, like sitting, laying down, giving paw, rolling over, speaking, and spinning in circles. They particularly enjoy balancing on two feet, as if they are dancing for you. Some Havanese learn more advanced feats, such as fetching and even swimming. I have even seen odd tricks, like speaking in different tones that represent mood or emotion. Some say that Havanese may have been circus dogs at one time because of their energy and silly demeanor [2].

[1] http://www.toybreeds.com/Havanese.htm

[2] http://www.mts.net/~mckay55/ABC.html

I have several videos of Havanese dogs performing these tricks on my web site. Please take the time to visit my site to view them. Take the link to the videos page.

I would like to thank you for taking the time out to read this article and would enjoy it if you read future articles I publish on the Web. If you would like, you can visit my website to see our Havanese Puppies.

Thanks again!

Ten Pet Hybrids Take Center Stage

A few years ago, if someone told you their family dog was a labradoodle, your response was probably "A labra what?" But more recently, these "designer dogs" have become more and more popular among people seeking a pet just a little bit different from every other Chihuahua and Labrador retriever in the dog park. "Designer dogs" are, in reality, mixed-breed hybrid dogs that, ideally (but not always) inherit the best traits of their two purebred parents. They're not recognized by the American Kennel Club, but fans of these trendy new dogs have created myriad organizations and clubs devoted to their favorite designer pooches. And vets say that mixing two breeds can make the offspring healthier than its parents, since the pups probably have a lower risk of developing the many health problems that develop after generations of breeding purebreds. Interested in possibly adopting a new puppy and considering a hybrid dog? Read on for the ten most popular combinations (and their fun, cutesy names).

Labradoodle

What it is: Labrador retriever X poodle

Qualities and characteristics: Labradoodles have a lower-shedding coat than labs, making them less likely to affect people with allergies, though no dog is truly hypoallergenic. Their medium-length coat can be wavy, straight or wooly. Generally friendly, energetic and great for families. Fond of the water. Very intelligent and trainable. Size varies depending on size of poodle cross. Miniatures can weigh 15-25 pounds, medium 30-45 pounds and standard 50-65 pounds. Can live 12-14 years.

Maltipoo

What it is: maltese X toy/teacup/miniature poodle

Qualities and characteristics: True to small-dog personalities, maltipoos are gentle, fun-loving, affectionate, active and charming. They can do well with all kinds of families, ages and dwellings, though they are meant for companionship. Range from 5-20 pounds and can live 10-13 years. Can possibly have non-shedding coats, making them a possibility for those with allergies. Are very alert and can be barkers. Need early socialization to ensure they're not timid and skittish.

Cockapoo

What it is: cocker spaniel X toy/teacup/miniature poodle

Qualities and characteristics: Known as the original "designer dog," cockapoos made their debut in the 1960s. Friendly and people-oriented, intelligent and trainable. Another low shedder and extremely affectionate. Perfect for companionship and as a lap dog. Can live 12-15 years and can weigh under 6 pounds to at least 19, depending on the poodle cross. Combines the sweet and stable temperament of the cocker spaniel with the poodle's orientation to people.

Puggle

What it is: pug X beagle

Qualities and characteristics: Described by many as having the appearance of a miniature mastiff, the puggle combines the wrinkles and solid coloring the pug with the muzzle, ears and tail of the beagle. Can be known to bark or howl frequently. Intelligent and loving, but can be challenging to train. Very active, not content to lay around. Great with kids of all ages and make good companion dogs. Can weigh 18-30 pounds and do shed, so they require weekly brushing.

Goldendoodle

What it is: golden retriever X poodle

Qualities and characteristics: Similar to the labradoodle, the goldendoodle is a great family dog. They've also proven successful in a variety of working situations, serving as guide dogs, therapy dogs, service dogs and scent dogs. Affectionate and gentle, they're relatively new on the hybrid scene. They're very trainable and great for novice dog owners. Like other poodle crosses, they're light shedders, so they may be a good option for allergy sufferers. Depending on the poodle cross, they can range in size from 15 to 90 pounds.

Chiweenie

What it is: chihuahua X dachshund

Qualities and characteristics: In appearance, chiweenies look like long-bodied Chihuahuas, sometimes with the long hair of the doxen. One of the tiniest designer dogs available, they make great lap and companion dogs. Likely to tunnel, so expect to find them burrowed in warm laundry or blankets. Make great family dogs, but small children could hurt them because of their small size. Are low-shedding, so grooming is minimal. Some are known to be incessant barkers.

Chorkie

What it is: Chihuahua X Yorkshire terrier

Qualities and characteristics: This tiny, Teddy bear-like breed is a fairly recent addition to the world of hybrid dogs. Highly intelligent and alert, they can perform a variety of tricks and tasks. Can be barky, but make great alert dogs. Temperament can be shy or bold, but don't be surprised to see that a dog has inherited the Napoleon complex of its Chihuahua parent. Some dogs are short-coated and require minimal grooming; others inherit the long hair of the yorkie, requiring frequent grooming. Great companion dogs, but could suffer injury from small children.

Schnoodle

What it is: miniature schnauzer X toy poodle

Qualities and characteristics: Smart, active and entertaining, the schnoodle offers the versatility of lap dog, family dog, therapy dog and performance dog. Most are small, but a standard poodle and giant schnauzer can produce a schnoodle up to 75 pounds (and the smaller versions can be as tiny as 6 pounds). Many dogs inherit the poodle's eagerness to please and the schnauzer's high energy and sturdiness. Larger varieties can make great jogging companions, and tinier ones can snuggle all day. Are protective of their family and are very intelligent. Some can be frequent barkers and/or diggers.

Shihpoo

What it is: shi tzu X poodle

Qualities and characteristics: This long-coated cross is low-shedding, thanks to the poodle cross. The shihpoo's ideal temperament includes the poodle's intelligence with the playfulness of the shih tzu. Typically happy, playful, gentle and welcoming of human attention. Usually do well with children, but can become snappy if teased. Do well in obedience training. Can live a long life of up to 14 years if well cared for. Are moderately active, but make great lap dogs. Grooming and trimming is needed to keep coat from matting.

Yorkiepo

What it is: Yorkshire terrier X toy poodle

Qualities and characteristics: These affectionate, playful dogs love to please and entertain and are great at learning tricks. Makes a great companion and does great in apartment life. Many can be excessive barkers. Very energetic and loves to run fast and jump high when not cuddling. Can weigh 3-14 pounds and often has a soft and silky coat, thanks to the yorkie parent. Thanks to the poodle, though, shedding is low, making the yorkiepoo a candidate for allergy sufferers. Very confident, not snappy or aggressive. Gentleness makes them great as a companion for the elderly. Watch out for a Napoleon complex when with large dogs.

And one extra - a bit different from other "designer dogs"

Wolfdog

What it is: wolf X domestic dog

Qualities and characteristics: Not exactly the same as other domestic hybrid dogs, wolfdogs are nonetheless gaining popularity among people desiring something a bit exotic. Wolfdogs also can vary significantly, as the "dog" half of their ancestry could be any domestic canine and is not limited to any particular breed, though wolf-like breeds are most common (shepherds, huskies, malamutes, etc.). Because all domestic dog breeds vary in temperament and behavior, and because wolves are wild and can pass on some of their wild tendencies to progeny, wolfdog characteristics are always unpredictable and can vary from animal to animal. Many agencies and organizations consider wolfdogs to be wild and therefore unsuitable as pets and support an international ban on the possession, breeding and sales of these animals. Currently, 40 U.S. states have such a ban, while others impose some form of regulation upon ownership. Eleven years ago, there were an estimated 300,000 wolfdogs in the U.S. They rank sixth in the number of dog attack fatalities in the U.S., with all of them being small children. This suggests the wild predatory nature of many wolfdogs is still present. They are also more destructive than domestic dogs, including digging, howling, chewing furniture and displaying difficulty in training and housebreaking.

http://www.yeepet.com/blogs/Ten-Pet-Hybrids-Take-Center-Stage-1270

What Kind of Personality Does Your Puppy Have? Find Out With Puppy Testing

Determining your puppy's personality via puppy testing.
Puppies are similar to humans in the sense that each one has a different personality. Dog personalities can be determined with puppy testing while they are still fairly young and this will help you train him or her more effectively. While puppy testing has its advantages, you shouldn't believe that it would allow you to pick the perfect dog. Puppy testing will determine if a dog is mentally stable and if he or she has a personality that is easy to work with. After all, the dog only accounts for 30% of your success in dog training. The other 70% depends on the dog owner's experience and his or her mentality.

Puppy testing in the right conditions.
Puppy testing must be performed in a neutral room or space that is new to the dog and where there won't be external distractions for the dog. The optimal age for puppy testing is when the puppy is 5 to 7 weeks old. The dog's personality is already set by that time but he or she hasn't fully grown attached to humans yet. The tester should also be someone new to the puppy or else some parts of the test will give doubtful results.

What is puppy testing? This article will discuss the Campbell test but it isn't the only test available. With the Campbell test, the puppies are scored on 5 criteria:

* Social attraction: Social attraction is tested by a person sitting a few feet away from the puppy and observing it. Does it come? Does it run away? If it comes, is its tail high or low? Does it explore its surroundings?

* Following skills: Following skills are tested by a person placing the down puppy next to him/her and starting to walk. Does the puppy follow? Does it follow and try to attack the tester's ankles? Does it follow but from a distance? Does it go off in another direction?

* Response to obligation: Response to obligation is tested by placing a puppy on its back and holding it down with a flat hand on its chest. Does the puppy remain calm? Does it bark and try to bite the hands of the tester? Does it first bark, then calms down? Does it try to lick the tester's hands?

* Social domination: Social domination is tested by a person sitting down next to the puppy and stroking him. Does it try to crawl on the tester? Does it try to bite the tester's hands? Does it just lie back and lick the tester's hands? Does it run away?

* Acceptance to be lifted: Acceptance to be lifted is tested by lifting the puppy from the ground and supporting it only at his chest so that it can't see the tester. Does the puppy struggle? Does it try to bite hands? Does it struggle at first but then calm down? Is it calm? Does it try to lick the tester's hands?

By combining the results, one can determine that type of personality the puppy has. New dog owners should choose a puppy that doesn't have extreme personality test results. Both extremely submissive or extremely dominant dogs need an experienced handler.

Visit Dani's blog and discover more great information about puppy care, dog training, dog grooming, dog food and much more. You also can download his ebook "The Secrets to Raising a Happier Dog: Common Questions & Answers!" for free.

Tip: If you'd like to know some great ways to train your dog to be well behaved, play safe and respect your every command, then check out this review of the best dog training ebook today and see how anybody, including you and your dog, can learn to live in perfect harmony without frustrating and aggressive episodes of bad dog behavior.

Chihuahua Puppy Names and Dog Names - Find Big Names For Your Little Pup

Owning a Chihuahua can be quite an adventure, as I'm sure most owners of this breed can attest to.

On one hand you've got this cute little dog that everyone wants to hold and pet. On the other hand, if you're a stranger, you'll be lucky to have four fingers left when you try, because it might just bite one off. This is because of the Chihuahuas extreme loyalty to those he's familiar with, and his not appreciating what he feels might be an infringement of his territory.

Chihuahuas can also be an adventure to own simply by virtue of their attitudes. Hang around one for any length of time and you'll notice that this little dog doesn't seem to know that it's little! Because of this, they're often referred to as the little dog, with the big dog attitude. They can be aggressive toward other pets, and can bark up a storm over the littlest thing, which in most cases is bigger than the actual dog itself.

Even though the above mentioned characteristics can be interesting to say the least, more endearing qualities are those of the Chihuahuas extreme loyalty to those he's familiar with. Also, this puppy has a high energy level and spunk, that can brighten anyone's day.

Because of these diverse qualities, naming this pooch can prove a bit of a challenge. Should you choose any dog name? Or look for Chihuahua names that best reflect it's small size, or even it's humorous big dog attitude?

Since we felt this unique pooch deserves a unique name, we've come up with some Chihuahua dog name suggestions that cover both it's small size and it's big attitude. Here's some ideas from our dog names website...

Dog Names That Sound Small...

Bambi, Bonbon, Bugsy, Butterball, Button, Cuddles, Doodle, Gumball, Junior, Kewpie, Laptop, Munchkin, Nibbles, Nipper, Peanut, Peewee, Puddles, Putt-Putt, Squeaky, Squirt, Tinkerbell

Dog Names That Sound Big...

Attila, Big Shot, Boomer, Bruno, Bunyan, Butkus, Capone, Genghis, Grizzly, Hercules, Hulk, Jaws, Kahuna, Kong, Manley, Moose, Muscles, Rambo, Samson, Sarge, Stallion, Sumo, Terminator, Ulysses, Wookie, Yukon, Zeus

In closing, it's important to remember that when naming any dog, Chihuahua or otherwise, not to give him a name that might cause him to be mocked or made fun of. When searching for the perfect male or female Chihuahua name, these names were suggested hoping to get your creative juices flowing, and start you off on the right paw.

When author Richard Livitski isn't being chased by his own dogs, he's busy chasing down cute Chihuahua names to include on his Chihuahua Names website at http://www.chihuahua-names.com

Caring For Your Cute Baby Huskies

Baby huskies often bring an abundance of joy to the family that adopts them. These cute puppies however, require much more attention than adult huskies in order for them to grow healthily into full grown dogs. Improper care of your cute baby huskies can often lead to illnesses and even stunted growth. We provide you with useful information for caring for your cute baby huskies.

Your baby husky emerges into this world with an under developed coat of fur. As such, it would require the warmth of its mother as it is still unable to produce sufficient body heat. Leave your baby husky next to its mother and sufficiently line the kennels with towels and heating pads. This is important as insufficient warmth would result in your baby husky developing severe bouts of chill.

It is important for your baby husky to be fed ample supplies of milk from its mother as it is still not ready to consume dog food of any sort. When the mother husky has run out of milk, consult your vet for a commercially available puppy formula. Never let your baby puppy consume milk formula for human babies as it would often lead to indigestion in the baby husky. In general, puppy formula requires conditioning to get used to, thus always prepare early so that in the initial stage you would be able to feed your husky puppy with a mix of its mother's milk as well as commercially available formula.

Visits to the vet are a must for your husky puppy. This should take the form of a general checkup and subsequent regular scheduled checkups. For the general checkup, bring along a sample of your baby husky's stool for the prescription of an appropriate de-wormer. At six to eight weeks old, another visit is necessary for vaccination purposes. In general, vets dispense valuable advice concerning the raising of your baby husky into full-grown adults. In addition, they may also provide valuable suggestions on issues such as the nutritional needs of your cute baby huskies.

It is important for the mother husky to clean its babies. This not only serves to keep the baby husky clean, but also to stimulate the puppy's bowel and urinary functions. These are important to the baby husky's overall health as failure to do so would often result in complicated health-related problems in the long run. You could also assist the puppy's bowel function by gently rubbing your puppy's genital area.

Ultimately, caring for your cute baby huskies is not something that can be done easily. Rather, it requires a great deal of time and commitment. From this point of view, people should not consider getting baby huskies simply because of their cuteness, but should give such a decision careful thought before getting huskies as pets. For those who are able to put in the necessary time, effort and commitment, you would definitely be rewarded amply as you watch your cute baby huskies grow healthily into full-grown adults. You would then be able to enjoy a fulfilling long term relationship with your huskies.

Clarence Clark is an avid Husky dog lover providing valuable advice for fellow Husky enthusiasts. He shares Husky info and training tips with Husky lovers worldwide. Click Here to gain FREE access to this Husky networking website.

Puppy Mills, Closer Then You Think

In the late 19th century, fear of rabies in New York and other cities lead to the formation of the first animal control groups. Dogs were rounded up and killed often in unspeakably cruel ways. As the New York Times reports, dogs were even placed in crates and drowned in the East River. Back then, a dog catcher was a person who protected the public with very little regard to the animals themselves. Although today groups like the SPCA have made great progress, many people do not realize that they inadvertently are contributing to the problem.

That cute puppy in the window might seem innocent enough, but behind the glass often lies the story of a mother forced to breed all its life and live in a small cage. Typically, animals in puppy mills are denied medical treatment and it is not uncommon for them to be covered by multiple cage sores and even their own feces. Once the animal is no longer productive, it is put down to make room for another abused animal.

Despite attempts to stop puppy mills, animal control groups are often overwhelmed by the legal challenges involved in shutting down incompliant breeders. Although many places that sell pets claim to only take animals from reputable breeders, time and time again, undercover agents have shown when there is money to be made, the darker side of mankind often shows its face.

So what can a person do to help? The first step is education. That education must begin early in life because kids need to know why it is important not to support these institutions. Every day, literally thousands of animals are destroyed simply because there is not enough room to keep them. In a bad economy, many people have been forced to give up their pets when they lost their jobs and had to move. Unfortunately, with funding limited, many perfectly good animals are euthanized every day. Fifty percent of dogs and seventy percent of cats in shelters are never adopted. Older pets in particular, are often disregarded. By adopting a pet, you save a life and cast your vote for a better tomorrow.

This is not to say that there is no such thing as a reputable breeder. But with 3 to 4 million animals euthanized in shelters annually, why bring more pets into this world when so many are waiting to be rescued today?

Robert Haskell is a contributing author and manager of consumer affairs for http://www.officesalesusa.com and http://www.worldatfocus.com/.

Havanese Puppies - The Perfect Pet For Families

There is a special connection between dog lovers and a little known breed called the Havanese. Havanese puppies are quickly gaining in popularity across the country, and it's not just competitors that are finding this lovable little breed to be so desirable, but families around the country are realizing that with the Havanese puppies being so mild mannered, they are the perfect little dogs for homes with children. If you have been considering getting your child their first dog, then the Havanese may well be the perfect choice for you.

Choosing the right Havanese puppies for your family doesn't have to be a difficult process, either. As long as you understand what to look for, and know what a healthy dog looks like, buying Havanese puppies can be a rather enjoyable experience. And if you know that the dogs you are choosing from are healthy, then you can focus on simply picking the perfect pup for you.

The first thing you have to understand about Havanese puppies, is that they are very energetic and playful little dogs, as a general rule. Dogs that show signs of lethargy may be under nourished, and may require special attention before they begin to act like their normal selves. Also, these dogs require quite a bit of love and affection, as they are by nature a fiercely loyal and affectionate dog breed. Any sign Havanese puppies may show of being leery of humans may be a sign that they have been mistreated.

If you are buying Havanese puppies from a breeder or owner in your local area, it is a good idea to ask your local veterinarian if they have ever treated these puppies by giving them their shots, treating them for worms, and the like. If you are purchasing a Havanese puppy from an out of state breeder, be certain to ask for proof that the puppies have been well cared for.

As you can see, there is really no better choice than Havanese puppies for those living in close quarters. Their small size makes them ideal for small houses and city apartments; yet their personalities are equal to the largest of breeds. These fiercely loyal dogs are excellent with children, as well and do not have the history of turning on their owners, or becoming aggressive, that many small breeds do.

Havanese puppies are quickly becoming more and more popular around the world as people begin to better understand what was once a little known breed. These small dogs have fought and survived extinction, and are quickly proving to the world that what they may lack in size, they more than make up for in heart! Look into purchasing one of the many beautiful Havanese puppies available today, and see just what a wonderful addition they will make to your home.

Fiona Kelly is a dog owner, breeder, and avid studier - particularly of small dog breeds. Havanese are a wonderful small dog breed characterized by its lack of shedding, good temperament, and good general health. If you are seeking information about what to expect with the Havanese this article will provide it for you.

Best Tips On How to Buy a Puppy

You have decided a puppy is the next addition to your home and family. You've seen plenty of cute puppies out there and have wanted each and every one of them. So where do you start?

Best Tips on How to Buy a Puppy

Before your heart melts and your reasoning abilities fly out the window when faced with those sad, yearning puppy eyes, there are important facts to consider so when that adorable puppy become a full blown dog, this emotional love affair continues!

1) Determine your needs

This factor is vital to ensure a long successful life with your cute new puppy. A happy dog with an equally happy owner is the result you are looking for when considering your needs.

*Think about what size you want your future canine BFF to grow to. If you have a small house or live in an apartment, do you really think a Great Dane is your best companion?

*If you avoid exercise like the plague or have no wide open spaces for an exercise driven dog like a Dalmatian, you will surely encounter damage resulting from a very bored, energy hyped pooch.

*Are you outgoing, constantly on the go, surrounded by people? A reserved, shy natured dog is probably not a good match for you. Matching a breeds personality closely to your own is a sure bet for a harmonious relationship.

*Very important if you have kids or expect to have them in the next decade or so. Surprisingly not all dogs are kid friendly nor are all kids dog friendly. A dog that is easy going is a better match for kids. A lesson in doggie respect taught to young children absolutely makes a calmer household.

2.) Adoption vs Breeder

Volumes are written on this subject for good reason. There are millions of perfectly fine, loving pets euthanized each year because they don't have a home and shelters often can't afford to house them all. Too often it's because of one or more of the reasons discussed above. People simply did not take the time to choose the right dog for their needs and instead make an impulse decision when seeing cute puppies they can't resist. You might visit your local shelters before you decide to buy a puppy from a breeder. The right puppy or dog could be waiting there for you to come along!

Breeders are often desired when people choose to buy a puppy, especially those who feel a pure bred dog is what they need. Be very selective and discriminating when considering breeders. There are many different levels of breeders and again choosing a breeder that fits your needs is important. If you are not going to show your dog or continue breeding him or her later in life, a top of the line breeder maybe isn't something you need to consider or bear the expense of. On the other hand, a quality breeder is important no matter what. Ask many questions, carefully inspect their dogs and all areas of the facilities when you visit them. If they are acting like they have something to hide, they probably do. Buying from a bad breeder gains you nothing and allows a poor breeder to continue to stay in business. You may be able to save a few dollars, but the cost in the long run with health issues on so on really isn't a savings at all.

3) How to Buy A Puppy - Do Pet Stores Mean Puppy Mill?

Generally speaking, the consensus is yes. Much has been said and written about the atrocities of puppy mills. The "breeders" aren't breeders at all, but quick profit seekers only interested in producing many puppies quickly and as cheaply as possible. Sadly, the result is dogs and puppies neglected, abused and unhealthy. Too often pet stores operate on the same principles, volume over quality, and the puppy mills and pet stores work hand in hand. If you consider purchasing a puppy from a pet store, please reconsider. If you can't resist, please continue very carefully. Before you buy a puppy, please learn more about this at http://www.stoppuppymills.org/.

4) How to Buy A Puppy - Purchasing on the Internet

Generally speaking again, the consensus is don't buy a puppy on the Internet. There are too many ways for "breeders" to paint a pretty picture and weave a tale that has no measure of truth to it at all. These breeders often offer to ship a puppy anywhere so you never have to visit their facility. When considering the condition of puppy mills, this makes it very convenient for a breeder operating on deception.

5) How to Buy a Puppy - Choosing Your New Puppy

You have determined your needs and eliminated the breeds that simply won't work out. You hopefully have a list of the breeds that will compliment you and your lifestyle. You have an idea of where you will purchase or adopt your cute puppy. Now is the time to let emotions kick in! Which breeds on your list do you like the most? Is there one that stands out or a few? Still undecided? Perhaps a visit to a dog park would help. Often how a dog interacts with his owner is similar to how that breed interacts in general. Another option would be to invest in an inexpensive book about a specific breed to help you decide. This may help you determine the perfect cute puppy for you!

Sheri is the owner of two dogs, Tess and Zoey. She writes about pet ownership as well as the differences in various dog breeds.

To learn about one of my favorite dog breeds and to find out more about pet ownership please visit Shiba Puppies Are The Best.

Cute Puppy Nursery Bedding - Banana Fish Spot Crib Bedding

If you are looking for some puppy nursery bedding for your puppy theme baby nursery, you may want to take a closer look at the Banana Fish Spot Crib Bedding Set.

This is probably the cutest puppy nursery bedding set available. Banana Fish is known for high quality bedding sets and the Spot set does not disappoint. The set uses warm tones of tan and brown, high quality fabrics, and cute puppy dog appliqués. The puppy appliqués feature Spot, a cute Dalmatian puppy. Here are just some of the features of this cute bedding collection set:

A Patchwork Quilt - The crib quilt is a patchwork quilt made of brown, tan, and rich chenille squares.

The Crib Bumpers - The bumpers that come with this set are made of brown and plaid squares with puppy appliqués.

The Crib Sheet - The crib sheet included with the set is a light tan color. You can also purchase additional sheets which is a good idea since having at least two to three crib sheets for your baby is ideal.

Dust Ruffle - The dust ruffle or crib skirt, is made of plaid with another plaid fabric as a lovely accent trim.

This is what comes in the four piece bedding set. You can expect to pay around $270 for the set but if you shop around you might find a deal. Matching décor and accessories for your baby's nursery are also available including plaid window valances, a diaper stacker, a hanging toy bag, and decorative pillows which are great for a rocking chair, glider, or window seat.

Visit Decorating-Your-Baby-Nursery.com for help locating great deals on Banana Fish Crib Bedding and Puppy Nursery Bedding

Husky Puppies - Cute Puppies, Big Dogs

What better way to brighten up your days than by getting a new husky puppy. That is not to say that those days will not also be filled with cleaning up messes and a ton of hard work, but still, bright they will be! There are a few different ways to go about picking out a puppy. Husky puppies are available through breeders, rescues, and sometimes even shelters. Huskies have friendly personalities and they are good with children. As with any breed, there are some downfalls to owning huskies, but as long as you are aware of that, then you should have no worries.

Breeders will typically advertise that they have a litter of pups on the way. That advertising may be done through word of mouth, classifieds listings, or website updating. If you have been looking for husky puppies for a while, you have probably already checked out several breeders websites. It is usually okay to email or call the breeders with any questions you might have regarding the upcoming litter, the requirements that the breeder might have of potential owners, or even general questions about the breed.

Contacting a rescue is also a good way to find information about the breed. A rescue will be very straightforward about any downfalls of the breed. In the case of a Siberian, the unfavorable traits can include a strong prey drive, the instinct to run free and the inability to be left to their own devices without causing destructive behavior. That said, the husky is easy to care for, sweet, affectionate, and smart. Rescues work every day with the dogs that were abandoned or given up by the previous owners, so they have a very good idea of the type of family that would be a nice match for husky puppies.

Occasionally you might come across a husky in a shelter. She may or may not have a litter of husky puppies with her. That is an oft-stated reason that people abandon their animals, as they do not want (or are not able) to care for the pregnant mother and upcoming litter of pups. Dogs are a huge responsibility. The adoption or purchase of one is not to be taken lightly.

After researching the traits of husky puppies, you will be very familiar with what to expect from your new fluffy bundle of joy. During the first few days, your pup will probably be pretty apprehensive. After all, he was recently removed from the only family that he has known in his short two or three months of life. It will take a bit of time for him to adjust. In the mean time, there may be a bit of crying and there will certainly be a great share of piddle accidents. Remember that your pup is still a baby and act accordingly. Give your pup plenty of attention. When your pup does something naughty, a gentle no will suffice and then simply redirect his attention. Most of all, remember to enjoy this time. Soon your pup will be all grown up.

Husky puppy information can be found all over the internet. Husky puppies are wonderful dogs and will bring joy to anyone they come in contact with.

There's More to Owning a Dog Than a Cute Puppy in a Litter

It is widely reported that all domestic dogs are descended from the wolf, Canis Lupus, also known as the grey wolf or the timber wolf. The wolf is a survivor of the Ice Age and as such, has been around for over 300,000 years. Today there are over 300 different dog breeds which are recognised by the American Kennel Club, and these breeds have evolved over this period by man's cross breeding and development of the original wolf.

The biggest question is whether man first approached the wolf to aid him in his domestic endeavours, or whether the wolf indeed approached man as he identified that man was a ready source of food and shelter, essential for the wolf's survival and not always easy to obtain. Some experts feel that it is the latter which is true. Was this the first example of owning a dog? The intelligence of the wolf should not be under-estimated and should be remembered and taken seriously, even in our relationship with our beloved companion, the domestic dog.

Wolves and domestic dogs are masters of teamwork and manipulation, and as such, the dog is the single most successful species on our planet. Express directions are given by the Alpha dog, or pack leader, and the pack execute their teamwork with a chilling accuracy to ensure their very survival. Their teamwork expertise is of such a high standard, it would be envied by any self-respecting CEO of a corporate organisation and it's not such a crazy idea that the dog's way of dealing with things could be adapted to a corporate role and would more than likely benefit any such organisation!

The psychology and behaviour of the wolf, and subsequently the domestic dog should ideally be understood to some degree before one considers owning a dog and before the arrival of any new dog into a human's life. It is when we, as emotional human beings, inadvertently burden our beloved dog with our human emotions and consequently 'promote' our dog to Alpha status that we can store up trouble for the future.

We all love a cute puppy and our instinct is to protect it and nurture it and, in extreme cases, dress it up like a doll and expect it to react to us as we react to each other. The truth is, dogs are a different species to us and do not understand, nor see the point of, our emotional approach to life. As a result of this, we stimulate behaviour problems in our pets and place unnecessary pressure on them by not allowing them to behave like dogs, which of course, is what they were born to be.

Without knowing it, we allow our beloved cute puppy to take on the role of pack leader and manipulate us into doing whatever it wants, whenever it wants. It is important to point out that, especially in our domestic world, not every domestic dog is really cut out to be that pack leader, or Alpha dog, and feels a lot less stressed if someone else, i.e. the human, takes on this role. This stands true for the smallest Chihuahua right through to the majestic and powerful Akita. It is this stress that the dogs feels that initiates many instances of what we as humans believe to be unacceptable behaviour. The truth is, the dog is only behaving as any dog would!

It is our duty to man's (and woman's!) best friend to understand the minds of our beloved dogs, and to expand our own knowledge of this loyal and fascinating animal. The pet world is expanding with unprecedented speed and many more people are seeing the advantages to owning a dog. However, there is an awful lot more to owning a dog than purchasing a cute puppy and buying it the most expensive and trendy dog gear that you can find. So, let's be fair to them, and let's try to see the world from their point of view and do more research and preparation before we take the leap into the world of dog ownership. Let's learn about them and their needs because, if we do, we will have a world of fewer law suits due to out of control dogs, and we will then have many happy, contented, problem free dogs and let's face it, it's far, far easier to prevent a problem rather than cure it!

Dogs can have an enormously powerful positive impact on our lives, so let's experience this in the best way we can. Follow my Blog for a real life experience of the trials and tribulations of owning a dog, with tips and resources to help along the way.

Elaine Milne

A dog lover with a message about owning a dog. This message is based on personal experience of owning my own dogs and seeing what can happen if we don't give our beloved dogs the attention they need and the ability to behave like, dogs, which is what they were born as.

Does Your Maltese Stand Up to the Supposed Standard?

Breed standards are a set of guidelines commonly used to ensure that dogs measure up to certain characteristics typical of the breed. Breed standards are used to judge dogs in competitions and are considered to be the hypothetical ideal of the breed.

If you want to compete with your Maltese and are concerned about following these requirements to the letter it might also be helpful to take into account that these ideal specifications can vary in different countries. These are the standards from the American Kennel Club

So you must be wondering.. how does your Maltese measure up to the official 'conformation' points? Keep in mind that these refer to the ideal dog and variations in your own Maltese are not in any way a poor reflection on your pet. Unless you want to compete that is...The following is adapted from the American Kennel Club Maltese Breed Standard guidelines which have been in effect since 1984.

General Appearance:

The Maltese is a gentle-mannered and loving toy dog. Covered from head to foot with smooth, silky hair. Despite the dogs size it should be eager and energetic.

Head:

The head must be in proportion with the size of the dog. The skull should be slightly rounded on top and the stop should be moderate.

The ears are low set and hang close to the head. The ears should be covered with hair hanging over them. The eyes are not set too far apart and should have a gentle but alert expression. The eyes are surrounded by black rims.

The muzzle is of medium length, fine and tapered at the nose. The nose is black. The teeth should meet in even bite.

Neck

The neck is long enough for the head to be held high.

Body

The body is compact. The shoulder blades are sloping and the elbows well knit. The back is level and the ribs well sprung. The chest is deep and just slightly tucked underneath.

Tail

Covered in long hair and gracefully carried over the back the tip should lie to the side over a quarter.

Legs and Feet

The legs should be fine-boned and feathered. The forelegs are straight and the joints well knit. The hind legs are strong and slightly angled at stifles and hocks. The feet are small and rounded. Toe pads are black.

Coat and Color

The coat is long, flat and silky. It should hang over the sides of the body almost to the ground. The long hair on the head may be tied up or left hanging. Any curl, kinks or woolly texture is considered a fault. The color must be pure white. Light tan or cream shades are allowed but frowned upon.

Temperament

The ideal Maltese is without fear. A gentle mannered dog with an affectionate manner is the ideal. Lively and playful.

Size

The weight must be less than 7 pounds. Between 4 - 6 pounds is preferred.

Gait

The Maltese moves with a smooth, flowing gait. When in motion the forelegs reach straight and free from the shoulders. The hind legs move in a straight line.

Faults:

Color

Cowhocks

Curly coat

Whether you want to compete or are just interested in how your dog measures up these are the most widely recognized guidelines.

Caring for your Maltese will require grooming to prevent the coats from matting. Try to keep the face clean especially around the eyes to avoid the typical "tear staining" which can spoil your Maltese's' lively expression.

Maltese are excellent companions and lively playmates. This aristocrat of the canine world is a pleasure to own and love. And if your Maltese meets the breed standards, it's a pleasure to show off your beautiful Maltese. If for some reason they don't meet the standard it doesn't mean a darn thing. They are beautiful through and through.

Steve Allison is a third generation of professional dog breeders along with his brother Gary. It all started with his grandparents in 1970 with the Boston Terriers and has expanded to Maltese, Yorkshire Terriers, Pugs, Shih Tzu’s and Pomeranians. He is also actively involved with dog rescue and has a website that showcases the puppies they occasionally has for sale at All My Puppies Online Steve is also the co-author of two consumer guides, Carpet Secrets and Moving Secrets Guide [http://movingsecretsguide.com]

What To Expect From A Havanese

One of the most positive and prevalent traits you can expect from your Havanese is companionship and devotion. A Havanese can live in a small apartment setting with ease. They don't require the amount of space or exercise requirements that larger dogs require. Therefore, in many ways a Havanese dog is very easy to care for.

Various dog breeds are prone to many common health ailments and diseases. The great thing about the Havanese breed is that it has relatively few genetic diseases in its history. This is a welcome note to any Havanese owner or anyone that is interested in finding their own wonderful Havanese dog.

The genetic problems of the Havanese include autoimmune skin conditions, cataracts and progressive retina atrophy.

I must stress, however, that it is still important to maintain quality preventative care through vaccinations, heart worm pills, and flea & tick medications. These preventative health measures are necessary for virtually every breed of dog.

A Havanese has a typical life span of around 16-18 years.

Personality Of The Havanese

This is probably the one burning question that many potential Havanese owners ask. What is their personality like? Well let me go through that for you right now:

1. Temperament

The temperament of a Havanese is playful and alert. The Havanese breed is brave even though they are smaller then most other dogs. This courage helps them to be a great watch dog. They are devoted to their family.

The Havanese breed is good with children. The key is to treat the Havanese like a companion and not a toy. Remember they are not a fragile doll and can play and romp with the best of them. Their playful attitude and active nature make them great friends for walks, swimming, and playing in the yard. The Havanese tends to be an indoor dog, but they need exercise as well.

The Havanese makes a great house pet and work well with kids. It is critical to teach your children to respect your Havanese and create a loving relationship.

2. Toy Breed

The Havanese breed is a member of the Toy group as classified by the American Kennel Club. The toy breed is small in stature which makes them wonderful apartment and house dogs. The Havanese can be a great choice for someone that lives in the city.

3. Exercise Requirements

A Havanese dog loves to curl up on the couch with you. However, they do also like to take a walk. In fact, walking should be part of their exercise plan. A Havanese will often be ready to play, but at times will want you to carry them during the walk. This can be tempting, especially because they are so cute!

Don't carry them. This will only spoil them. They need the exercise or they will become restless and irritable. A restless, bored, and irritable dog is prone to behavioral problems.

Exercise and play not only keeps your dog physically fit, but it promotes their mental health as well. Keep your Havanese happy and healthy with games, walks, and a good belly rub.

4. Great Family Dog

A Havanese can make a wonderful family dog. This breed is good with children if you train and socialize them properly. They have an innate need to watch over their family. They may not be able to attack an intruder, but they can let you know with a bark that an intruder is present.

Fiona Kelly is a passionate Havanese owner that has devoted countless hours sharing her secrets on how to have the perfect, happy, healthy and best behaved Havanese. If you?re interested in the Havanese then you can check out her web site at http://www.havanese-puppy-guide.com. The Author grants you permission to re-print or re-publish this article so long as it remains unchanged and all links remain present and active.

If you would like to learn more about the Havanese Breed, visit http://www.havanese-puppy-guide.com

What to Do When Taking Home a Puppy to Your Kids

Did Mom and Dad ever bring home a new puppy? If they did, you probably clearly remember that day as a very exciting day. Many kids instantly fall in love with their puppy. My first puppy was called Laddy and he was my first best friend. My parents took him home on a special day 30 years ago. Laddy is no longer with us but I still keep fond memories of him as my first puppy.

Your children too will remember the first day when the dog got home. If you're thinking about giving the same happiness and pleasure to your child by bringing home a new puppy, your kids will never forget. The puppy's first expression on his adorable little face will remain forever etched in their minds. However, you should teach your children what to expect from the puppy before you bring him home.

Your kids are definitely going to be excited. There is no doubt about it! All little children go absolutely crazy when they see a cute and adorable puppy in a pet store or one the street. Can you imagine how excited they will be when they have their own little puppy at home? They will be at least 1000% more excited than they are when they see the neighbor's dog.

You must make sure that your children remain as quiet as possible. Tell them that you know how excited they are about the new puppy getting home. Tell them that the dog will probably be very scared and nervous to be in a new home with people he doesn't know. Your children must understand that the puppy will need some space so that he doesn't get overly frightened. Teach your kids not to yell or shout and they can't roughhouse or grab the puppy either. Why not add a rule that children can't fight amongst themselves in front of the puppy?

You should gather the family and discuss all the rules with the children before your bring home a dog. The children should repeat the rules to make sure that they were listening and that they understand them. After all, it's in the interest of your children and the dog's safety!

Visit Dani's blog and discover more great information about puppy care, dog training, dog grooming, dog food and much more. You also can download his ebook "The Secrets to Raising a Happier Dog: Common Questions & Answers!" for free.

Bring a New Puppy Home - Follow These Tips to Avoid a Nightmare

You should give your new puppy a complete tour around your house on his first day home. Make sure to keep him on a loose leash as it will be the perfect time for you to introduce him to the limitations you want to set on your possessions (i.e., your furniture, books, golf clubs, kids' toys).

You should refrain from using the word "No". If you do, your puppy may think that "No" is his name! You should be firmer and use a guttural "Yack!" while tugging and releasing his leash when he sniffs the items you don't want him to touch. Remember: "No!" says "Don't do that!" whereas "Yack!" says "Don't even think of doing it!" You can't blame him for exploring his new world. Simply say "Puppy!" in a happy voice and he should turn around to look at you. Praise him for looking away from these items by saying "Good dog" and then continue with the tour.

Puppies can learn by means of prevention (a growl sound he understands) that some things will be out of bounds. Make sure to let him sniff first because dogs can more easily remember objects by scent than by sight. While chit-chatting is natural and pleasant for both you and your puppy, try to limit the chatter at first. In the beginning, puppies will only pick up on their name because everyone uses it around pleasurable results such as playtime, food or praise. If you say the word "din-din" several times while preparing his meals, that word will stand out in the midst of a five-minute conversation on nutrition as a clue to the attentive puppy that he is about to eat. The human-canine teaching language must be based on short and simple words that are always applied to the same particular actions.

Your first house tour with your puppy introduces him to the layout of his new home and lets him discover what it looks like, smells like, even feels like in some rooms (e.g., rugs, wood, tile). You can also teach your puppy that some things are out of bounds to them. Another important lesson that your pup should learn from his first guided tour is that you are his new leader and he should obey you. If you don't make it clear that you are the boss, your puppy will become the boss as soon as he can. Like the saying goes, "Lead, follow or get out of my way." Every dog seems to know it from the moment they are born and they will continue to live by it!

When the guided tour is over, you should focus on the specifics such as where the water bowl is. Go ahead and let him explore his crate. You can then take your puppy outside, on a leash, and show him the potty area. Stand there until your dog finally urinates or defecates. It might take a while so be patient. Make sure to praise and reward him after he does his business. You can then show him the outside of your house and warn him about certain flowers, plants, bushes or vegetable gardens that you want him to stay away from.

If you live in a city with dog bylaws, you must be a responsible dog owner and curb your puppy. Go to the quietest no-parking area you can find. Remain on the sidewalk and your puppy will want to stay with you. Next, stand down in the street and let him join you. It will take time as well as a casual and confident attitude to get him used to city noises and the speed and size of trucks and taxis that go by. You should wait until his immunizations are complete before giving your puppy an outside walking tour. By then, it will be easier for your puppy to accept city life.

Note: If it took you longer than an hour to take the puppy home, you should give him the outdoor tour first so that he can do his business straight away.

Visit Dani's blog and discover more great information about puppy care, dog training, dog grooming, dog food and much more. You also can download his ebook "The Secrets to Raising a Happier Dog: Common Questions & Answers!" for free.

"Aawww" - The Puppy Cute Factor

Take the most intimidating dog breeds due to size or reputation, and it becomes a non-issue when they make their appearance in the baby puppy stage. It seems we are all hard-wired to adore puppies no matter what the breed. The disproportionately large paws and forehead that the puppy has yet to grow into along with the silky ears, little belly, sweet puppy breath and large round eyes clearly trigger thought recognition of human babies.

Even people who are afraid of or do not like dogs have a softening or melting of their veneer when confronted with the innocence of a cute puppy. The human species is naturally predisposed to nurture and care for the defenseless, especially babies, because we are for the most part a nurturing species. These nurturing cues trigger a rush of hormone found in mammals that biochemists call oxytocin, which acts as a neurotransmitter in the brain. Oxytocin, best known for its role in inducing labor, may influence our ability to bond with others and maintain social relationships, and may be involved in the formation of trust and generosity between people.

The same reaction can be triggered by adult animals when the visual cues similar to baby-like features are present, such as big baby round eyes, pronounced foreheads and rounded heads. That is why the panda bear is regarded as "oh so cute" no matter how large. People tend to associate that image with the cute teddy bear we used as security as children, even though we know it would be quite dangerous to enter the environment with a full grown panda.

For thousands of years, man has played a role in the way our beloved dogs look by breeding selections. Many dog breeds were developed for a working purpose -- to retrieve hunted game, and herd livestock and sheep -- and dogs' features and abilities reflect those purposes. However, numerous breeds were created for our companionship and pleasure.

Many of the breeds developed for the purpose of pleasure and companionship seem to possess the more baby-like features that elicit the response of "awww... how cute". An example would be the Bichon Frise or the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel. As full grown adult canines, they possess the baby-like soft expressions, big round-eye puppy features and the look of innocence that we as people find so appealing.

There is that emotional tendency to want our dogs to remain playful puppies forever and some breeds help perpetuate the illusion for us. Puppies often make us laugh (of course, until they have an accident on the carpet!) and we all recognize that happy laughter makes us feel good.

Puppies are very often used in the advertising world because they are a universal symbol that charms the most stoic among us. As long as we remain a human species, our feelings for the puppy will always be in safe cherished appeal, and that's a wonderful thing.

We have existed as a company since 1985, but it was a love of dogs, the dogs that have been a part of our life, and the passing of one dog in particular, Rusty, that inspired the creation of http://www.CalloftheDog.com and http://www.CalloftheDogShop.com -- created to provide the things your dogs and pets need. Visit us for great information and quality dog supplies! Be sure to see our About Us page as well.

The two sites are dedicated to the dogs we have loved so deeply, and who have given us so much love in return. Purebreds and mixed breeds, but mostly rescues in need of a home. We educated them, but each one has had something to teach us in exchange.

Puppy House Training - How to Housebreak Your Havanese Puppy

House Training your Havanese Puppy

Now that you have brought your new baby home, teaching him where to do his business is of utmost importance. You have several options available. The most common house training methods are going outside, crate training, wee-wee pads, newspapers, and doggie litter boxes. Here at KASE Havanese, my personal favorite is to take the puppy outside in addition to placing wee-wee pads all over the house. When you combine these two methods you don't have to worry as much about inside accidents. The pads are there just in case.

Basic House Training for Outside:

If you are going to train your Havanese puppy to go outside it is very important to get off to a good start. Your goal is to prevent accidents right from the start. It is important to watch your puppy carefully at first and to be consistent. Just tell yourself that house training your new baby is your job and that you are going to focus on it for the first couple of weeks.

It is helpful if you can get your puppy on a regular schedule and feed him around the same time every day. This helps the puppy's digestive system to get regulated and makes training easier. The two most crucial times to take your puppy out are immediately after he wakes up and immediately after he has finished eating. It is good to take him to the same spot every time. Also, be careful to watch for signs that your puppy may need to "go" such as squatting, circling, or sniffing. If you see these signs, pick your puppy up and take him out to his "potty" spot immediately. When he has done his business make sure to praise him or give him a treat. Havanese love to please and the positive reinforcement will make house training easier.

A Havanese puppy can "hold it" for about one hour for every month that it is old. This means that if you have a two-month old puppy, he should be able to "hold it" for about two hours. This works well when your puppy is in his crate but when he is running around the house it is best to try to take him out about every hour or so at first. It is better to err on the side of taking him out too often than not often enough.

It is important to know that Havanese puppies are very playful and enjoy going outside. They tend to run around, explore, and play before they do their business. It is almost as if they have to work themselves into the mood. Also, some Havanese will go more than one time. Be sure that you stay outside long enough to give your puppy plenty of time to do his business and make sure he is finished before bringing him back into the house. It is a common mistake of new Havanese owners to assume that since their puppy is playing that he doesn't have to go. They then take the puppy inside only to have him go shortly after.

To make sleeping through the night easier, you can pick up your puppy's water bowl a couple of hours or so before bedtime and take him out right before you go to bed.

Crate Training Havanese:

Crate training has been known to be a very effective in housebreaking Havanese puppies. The principle behind crate training is that dogs usually do not like to do their business in their own "space." There are exceptions to this rule but they are rare.

When choosing a crate, I would recommend getting a crate that will be big enough for your Havanese when it is full grown. However, to crate train your puppy all you need is a crate with enough room for your puppy to stand, to turn around, and to lie down comfortably. You do not want enough room for your puppy to be able to go to the back of the crate to do his business. Some crates come with dividers, others do not. If your crate does not have a divider just find something like a paint can, a small box, or something else to put in the back of your crate to make it the correct size for your puppy. Once your puppy has become accustomed to not doing his business in his crate you can take the divider out.

When you put your puppy in the crate it is a good idea to put his "blankie" and some toys in there with him. Havanese are bred to be companions and do not like to be left alone. Be sure to put the crate in the same room with you so that he feels like he is still a part of the family. You can move the crate around with you when you change rooms. It is also a good idea to put the crate by your bed at night so that he will feel more secure.

At first, when you get your puppy out of the crate, pick him up and take him outside immediately. Do not let him walk on his own as he might squat and go to the bathroom as soon as he is out of the crate. With time he will learn that the routine is to get out of the crate and then go potty outside.

When you Leave the House:

When leaving the house you can place your puppy in his crate. This usually works well unless you have to be gone for a longer period of time than your puppy can "hold it." When this is the case, I have found that the easiest thing to do is to find a small area such as a laundry room, a small bathroom, or a section of the house that you can block off with a baby gate.

First, place the crate in that area and completely cover the floor with wee-wee pads or newspapers. Second, place the puppy's bed, blankie, toys, and fresh water in the room with him. The puppy will usually choose an area of the room to use as his place of business. When you see the space he has chosen you can pick up the unused wee-wee pads and use them later. This way your puppy has a comfortable place to sleep, plenty of toys to keep him busy, and he doesn't have to experience the discomfort of having to "hold it" until you get home. You can then enjoy your time away from home without having to worry about being gone too long and coming home to find an accident in the crate with your puppy.

Article written by Kelly and Sandra Grenga. Kelly and Sandra are Havanese breeders with KASE Havanese and currently reside in Charlotte, North Carolina. KASE Havanese breeds high quality puppies for pet homes from some of the top Havanese lines in the nation. To contact the author or for more information on Havanese visit their website at http://www.kasehavanese.com