The Indian Pariah, commonly known as the Desi Dogs or INDogs (Indian Native Dogs), is one of the oldest and most common breeds of aboriginal dogs on the Indian subcontinent. You can spot them in almost every nook and corner, in rather overwhelming numbers, across parts of India, Pakistan, Nepal, and Bangladesh. They’re known by different local names across the region and may slightly differ in appearance and size, based on the temperature, terrain & other climatic factors – but they’re truly Desi at heart.

Having been a subject of neglect and contempt for hundreds of years, the Indian Pariah dogs are gradually getting some attention & acceptance in recent years. Even though they are not yet recognized as a standard breed by major kennel clubs across the world, they’re being widely accepted as pets, companions and even as working line and service dogs. The INDogs also featured on National Geographic Channel’s film, Search for the First Dog, first aired in the year 2003.
 
Smart, friendly & agile, the Indian Pariahs are in no way less than their pedigreed counterparts. What they lack in trainability and tenacity, they make up for in their genetic buildup and resilience to diseases. They’re independent and yet highly adaptable, making them the perfect pet for every household.
 

 

The History & Evolution of the Indian Native Dog

Pariah Dogs refer to free-ranging dogs that survive on waste from human settlements. The term “Pariah” is derived from the Tamil word paraiyar which translates to “social outcast”. Some believe its root in the Anglo-Indian word pye (pae) or Hindi term pahi, which means “outsider” – an ironical name for one of the oldest known indigenous dog breeds.
 
The exact origin of this breed is unknown but archeological evidence dates it back to the Neolithic times, also known as the Late Stone Age – approximately 12,000 to 15,000 years ago. They’ve been a part of the journey of human civilization ever since. For years, the INDogs have been used as hunting companions by several tribes across the country. The Indian Pariah dogs have been celebrated in various sculptures and paintings throughout history. They have been a part of Indian mythology and folklore, making them an integral part of our art, culture and heritage.
 

 
The Indian Pariah dogs, as we see today, are a result of thousands of years of Evolution. They’re one of the only breeds of dogs that are originated out of Natural Selection, not selective breeding. Selective Breeding (or Artificial Selection) is a breeding practice that’s used to accentuate certain desirable traits and diminish undesirable characteristics in pedigree dogs. That’s what makes a Poodle so different from a St. Bernard, even though both belong to the same genetic species (Canis lupus familiaris). Desi dogs have evolved over time to develop characteristics that were essential for their survival in their local environment. They’re part of the primitive group of dog breeds. All other dog breeds are believed to be bred out of them using artificial selection.

SEE ALSO: The Evolution & Types of Dogs

It’s fascinating to note their close resemblance to primitive breeds from other continents – namely the Australian Dingo, the Canaan Dog of Israel, the New Guinea Singing Dog and the Central African village dog, ancestor of the African Basenji. Even though these breeds evolved naturally in different parts of the world – with no genetic mingling – the similarities among them are astounding. It’s like Nature brought them all to a common equilibrium – the perfect prototype of the domestic dog.
 

The INDogs VS the Indian Street Dogs

India accounts for the largest population of stray dogs in the world and people often assume they’re all Indian Pariahs. Yes, desi dogs are native to India – but a vast majority of urban free-ranging dogs on our streets are either mixed-breed dogs or urban landraces similar to the Indian Pariah. While more accurately referred to as mutts or mongrels, these dogs may sometimes resemble the Indian Pariah and often colloquially called ‘the Indies’.
 
Mongrelization or the mating of a primitive dog breed with a pedigree breed dog or another mixed-breed dog is one of the biggest threat to the Indian Pariah Dog breed. Second to that, is our love for foreign and exotic breeds – a probable byproduct of British colonization – neglecting and condemning our very own INDogs. It’s important that we recognize the Indian Pariah as a standard breed to preserve and flourish this smart, intelligent and versatile specimen of heritage and Evolution.
 

The Physical Appearance of the Indian Pariah Dog

Since the INDogs have evolved naturally over the millenniums and a wide geographic area, they differ in appearance across regions. Unlike pedigree dog breeds that are artificially created by humans through selective breeding, the breed standards of Pariah dogs are often more flexible and allow room for natural variation in size, colors, etc. There is also a variation seen in the rural and urban specimens of the INDogs. However, these variations are limited to physical appearance only, the temperament of all dogs remain pretty much the same.
 

 
They’re medium sized dogs, with adult males ranging in 20 – 25 inches height and 20 – 30 kgs weight. Adult females are a few inches shorter and few kilos lighter. They have a short, but dense double coat that ranges from fawn to dark brown color, sometimes pied with black or white. Solid black INDogs are rare. Spots and white markings are usually observed in the undercoat, ends of limbs and tail. Their long and straight forelimbs and slightly curved hindlimbs allow them to run really fast in short trots.
 
They have a medium-sized, wedge-shaped head, a long, pointed muzzle that’s usually darker than the rest of the body, and jaws with a clean, scissor bite. Their eyes are almond-shaped and dark brown in color, ears are held firm and erect – broad at the base and pointed at the tips. The tail is curled, held high in the excited state, wags vigorously on spotting a friend.
 
Long coats, drooping ears, short muzzle, light-colored eyes, pure white or dalmatian-like spotted coats are considered faults. Similarly, oversized, undersized, overweight dogs or dogs with loose or drooping skin are also considered breed faults.
 

The Personality of an Indian Pariah Dog

It’s important to acknowledge & understand that the Indian Pariahs have evolved as independent dogs living in packs. Thus, their personality is a net effect of the evolutionary changes they had to undergo to survive their environment. Let’s look at various aspects of their personality and understand what they mean for us as pet parents.
 
Easily trainable but gets bored quickly
The Indian Pariahs are extremely smart, intelligent and pick up training commands really quickly. However, these dogs get bored early and do not indulge in the typical, repetitive dog games like ‘fetch’. They constantly need mental stimuli and love exploring new things, smells and experiences.
 
Friendly but needs to socialize early
The INDogs are very social animals. They love to live in packs and are extremely good with children and other pets. But if not socialized early, they may develop anxiety and distrust amidst other humans. They do not trust strangers easily and may exhibit signs of aggression when confronted or cornered by new people.
 

 
Territorial and protective of their pack
Their natural habitat and the evolutionary journey has made them extremely territorial in nature. They’re usually very protective of their family/pack and may resort to extreme measures if they sense a danger to their pack. If you’re parenting an Indie, you may want to put up that “Beware of the Dog” door-sign.
 
Very active breed and thrives on regular exercise
Desi dogs were bred for a life in the wild (or urban wild, in the case of our city dogs). They are a very active breed and never shy away from a long walk, run or swim. But if for some reason, your INDog doesn’t receive enough physical workout every day, beware that they may resort to destructive behavior. Large houses with vast open spaces are ideal for these dogs, apartments with a terrace or parks nearby could also work.

SEE ALSO: Simple Exercises to Keep Your Dog Healthy & Happy

Modest eaters, but can easily turn fussy
The Indian Pariah dogs are very modest eaters, can eat and survive on almost any food, and have a small appetite. But that means that we can easily tend to overfeed them – which triggers behavioral problems such as selective or picky eating. It’s important that you watch out your Indie’s diet and only feed as much is necessary. Overfeeding can have serious consequences – obesity and behavioral shift to selective eating habits, to name a few.

SEE ALSO: How to Fix your Dog’s Selective Eating Habits

Extremely alert but sometimes noisy
Their evolution, often close to wild (or urban setup of the cities) – where predators or threats are common, have made them extremely cautious and alert of their surroundings. They bark at the slightest doubt – making them a perfect watchdog. However, this habit may cause some trouble for apartment dwellers – especially if your neighbors often complain of noise.
 

 

Common Medical & Health Problems with INDogs

The Indian Pariah is one of the healthiest breeds of dogs. Being a naturally evolved and perfected breed, they possess minimum to no genetic disorders. Common problems such as hip dysplasias and cancers that are common among artificially inbred dogs, are rare in INDogs. Even if a genetic defect occurs, it’s usually bred out in the coming generations by means of Natural Selection. Their vast ‘gene-pool’ means that only the fittest survive and get to extend their race.
 
They breed once a year and may deliver a litter of 6 – 8 pups each season. They are a healthy dog breed overall with minimum to no veterinary expenses except the vaccination routine. The average lifespan of INDogs is 13 to 16 years, under good care.
 

General Care & Parenting Tips for Desi Dogs

INDogs are generally very low-maintenance dogs. Having bred for the Indian conditions, they can easily adapt into any setting. However, the following few basics must be kept in mind while parenting a Desi Dog:
 

Nutrition

The Indian Native Dogs have traditionally been scavenging human waste or hunting small prey animals for food. They are not big eaters and need minimal food to survive. They have a strong digestive system, healthy metabolism and can digest a variety of diets. Their bodies are designed to make the best out of the food they receive.
 
But it’s important that as responsible pet parents, we give them a healthy and balanced diet. Like most other canines, a bulk of your Indian Pariah dog’s diet must consist of meat-based proteins and fats. Since they are always full of energy, some carbs are needed to fuel their agility & activity. But it’s important to keep a tab on their diet. It’s very easy to overfeed a Desi Dog, and that can have its consequences.
 
Obesity is very common in Indian Urban Dawgies. Indian Pariahs tend to gain weight easily, especially if they eat more and burn fewer calories. Overfeeding also gives way to selective eating. When we overfeed a dog and offer little or no exercise to burn those calories up – he hardly feels hungry or excited for the next meal. Such a dog is almost certain to reject the meal when served. If we replace that meal with something more exciting than the last, the dog may eat it – but we may be thrown into a vicious circle – gradually pushing the dog to a negative behavioral pattern that none of us enjoy after a certain point.
 
It’s important that we watch out for what and how much our desi darlings eat, and ensure that they feed on a nutritionally balanced and biologically appropriate diet.
 

Grooming

Desi Dogs need minimum to no attention to their grooming. They shed very little, and their coat requires almost no maintenance. They’re well suited for the tropical weather but may not handle extreme cold that well. These dogs are relatively very clean and have almost zero body odor. They can be given an occasional bath and can dry themselves up really quickly in the sun – thanks to their short coat.
 
They are prone to ticks and fleas and may need regular inspections to weed out any parasites that may infest them.

SEE ALSO: Skin Problems in Dogs

Exercise

As mentioned earlier, Desi Dogs need a lot of physical & mental exercises. They have a smart mind and a very energetic body. If not put to good use, their mind and body force them to resort to destructive behavior. A tired dog is a happy dog. A tired Indie, though, means a happy and untattered couch and mattresses.
 
These dogs have traditionally been used to hunt and kill, and enjoy almost all kinds of adventure. A house with big open spaces is ideal for them to run around and expend all the energy that bubbles up inside their athletic body. If that’s not available, make sure you take your dog out for regular walks, runs, and occasional swims.
 

The Indian Pariah has been officially recognized by the Primitive and Aboriginal Dog Society (PADS), but still longs for the love and social respect that an amazing breed such as the INDogs deserves. It’s time we acknowledge and take pride in the fact that the oldest known dog breed in the world runs and barks in our country. Its vast ‘gene-pool’ makes it one of the healthiest dog breeds and opens up unlimited possibilities. Studying their genetic makeup can help us eradicate some of the most dangerous diseases from the face of the Earth. Above all, they’re a beautiful chronicle of how Evolution works its way across generations to create the most perfect version of man’s best friend.
 
 
We’d like to thank The INDog Project for years of research & hard work to help us all understand our Desis a little better. Their work has been instrumental in helping us compile this article.

It is rightly said that German Shepherd isn’t a breed; it’s a lifestyle. Known for their unmatched loyalty and dedication, they are also the third most intelligent dog breed according to Stanley Coren’s book, The Intelligence of Dogs. German Shepherd’s are so versatile and adaptable that can do absolutely anything if trained to. Right from being of assistance to the handicapped, to police and military services, drug detection and of course faithful companionship.

Even one of the earliest canine movie stars, Strongheart and Rin Tin Tin, were German Shepherd Dogs. Rin Tin Tin was rescued from the World War 1 battlefield by an Amercian Soldier, Lee Duncan. Lee trained Rinty (as he would call him) and he got work in silent films. The dawgie was an immediate box-office hit and went on to star in 27 Hollywood films.
 

 

What’s so German about the GSDs?

In the 1800s, the most common dogs who used to herd the sheep were known as “Continental Shepherd Dog” or simply, “Shepherd Dogs.” Approximately 50 years down the line, as tension started to build in Germany, shepherds and farmers wanted to isolate useful characteristics among dogs, especially working dogs.
 
The 1850s were the beginning of standardization of dog breeds. This is exactly when the German Shepherd Dogs were selected as the best breed among other hounds and beasts. Intelligence, speed, and strength were recognized as ‘desirable’ traits, and these dogs were found to master these. However, within thirty years, these attempts faded significantly as the predator population started declining, rendering shepherd dogs useless in general.
 
Despite this failed attempt, German Shepherds remained the headline for years to come. Acing across all the desirable traits, everyone took to notice the intelligence of this furry creature. Among these was Max Von Stephanitz, who was an ex-cavalryman and had served in one of the societies which had earlier wanted to standardize dogs. Max was soon introduced to a German Shepherd Dog named Hektor Linksrhein. Von was so impressed by Hektor’s agility, strength and smartness, that he got him home and renamed him to Horand. But he didn’t stop at that! He then founded the Society for the German Shepherd Dog in 1899 and registered Horand as the first German Shepherd Dog.
 
The breed was named Deutscher Schäferhund by Max Von Stephanitz, literally translating to ‘German Shepherd Dog’. The name was kept fairly simple, indicating what this breed does. Interestingly enough, since Germany and UK were on different sides during World War 1, the UK ‘hated’ everything ‘German’. So much so, that they invented a new name for this sweet variety; Alsatian Wolf Dog, named after the French territory of Alsace bordering the UK.
 

Alsatian and the German Shephards are literally the same dog breed, called differently because the UK didn’t want to call them ‘German’.

The Personality of a German Shepherd Dog

German Shephards are one of the most versatile dog breeds. They are also highly trainable. This is what makes them the first choice for anyone looking for a working dog.
 

GSDs are smart and intelligent

A well trained German Shepherd can do anything. They can lead the specially-abled, serve as police dogs and work as excellent watchdogs. Since their bodies are used to watching livestock and making sure that nobody in the pack goes missing, they are extremely vigilant.
 

GSDs are a little reserved

When it comes to their nature, German Shepherds are inherently shy. Most German Shepherd parents concur that these dogs take a little time initially to make friends, but once they do, they would literally give their everything for them. It is due to their reserved nature that they tend to be a little more disciplined as compared to other breeds. This makes training them easier. In fact, India has recruited many German Shepherds into their surveillance and investigation teams. Their presence in CISF’s Delhi Metro Unit is an example of how well trusted this breed is.

ALSO READ: The Bravest Dogs Of India

German Shephard Dogs shed a lot!

German Shepherds are also called ‘German Shedders’, and for the right reasons. They shed throughout the year and a little more during the shedding season. They are blessed with a double coat, which was originally meant to protect them from the cold, while they worked in ranches. Since they are slowly adapting to warmer climates, shedding is their body’s way of acclimatizing to that change. Shedding can be kept in check by daily brushing, which helps keep the dead hair out and by feeding a biologically-appropriate and balanced diet.

ALSO READ: 6 Dog Breeds That Shed The Most

They need a LOT of exercise

These dogs were meant for a life of work. Their bodies have evolved over the years to help them be consistently on their feet. This is the reason why German Shepherds have a lot of energy, which they need to spend doing something constructive. A minimum of 60-90 minutes of exercise is recommended for your German Shepherd Dog. To make walks and jogs more fun, you can try a game of frisbee with your German dawgie. A tired dog is a happy dog, so don’t shy away from making your baby chase that ball. And we bet he’ll love it!
 
If your pooch doesn’t spend his energy on exercise, be sure that he will take to barking or chewing to release it. To avoid your house from being brought down, and your couch being torn to tatters, it is advisable that you take your German Shepherd Dog out for a walk every day.
 

 

They can suffer from separation anxiety

Always been on the run, these dogs are used to being around people. Therefore, they go through a bout of separation anxiety every time they are left alone. When it comes to a German Shepherd, you might want to take into account their reserved nature, to begin with. If they are kept on a leash, they might inculcate a rebellious attitude, which makes training very hard. It has been observed in a lot of cases that keeping your German Shepherd indoors with you, and taking them out for exercise is a great way to keep separation anxiety at bay. It is also advisable to not leave your German Shepherd alone for longer periods of time. And let’s face it, why would you want to?
 

Common Medical Problems with German Shepherd Dogs

Even though GSDs are a fairly healthy dog breed, here are some common medical issues that could trouble your German Shephard Dog. It’s not necessary that your darling GSD will suffer with one of these. But an information about the health risks means you can catch their signs early and potentially save your baby from a lot of pain & agony in the long run.

• Hip Dysplasia
  This is a genetic condition in which the thigh bone doesn’t fit exactly into the pelvis. It can exist on both sides of the body and can be extremely painful for your German Shepherd. More than often, Hip Dysplasia has caused dogs to walk with a limp, in the very first months of their puppyhood. However, in another significant number of cases, no clinical signs are visible, which makes it very hard to detect. Since this condition is genetic, there’s sadly not much that can be done about it once your puppy is fully grown. A lot of vets recommend corrective surgery as early as possible, otherwise, it has a chance of progressing into arthritis as your dawgie matures.

• Elbow Dysplasia
  Another hereditary condition, Elbow Dysplasias happen because the three bones that make up your dawgie’s elbow grow at different rates. This can put your pooch through extreme pain and can cause joint laxity. Most vets recommend pain medication and corrective surgeries. It should be noted that the earlier this gets caught, the better chances your pet has at having a painless recovery.
• Bloating
  Also known as Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus, this disease is most common among deep-chested breeds like German Shepherds. If the dawgie is fed a large meal, or drinks water very rapidly after eating, or exercises after such a meal, the excessive air inside his belly is caged. The dog is unable to relieve himself of such a distended stomach. Belching or vomiting is the way out of this. Under such a condition, even the blood flow to the heart can stop. The blood pressure drops immediately. If you notice your GSD has a distended abdomen, or is salivating in excess, or belching without throwing up, rush to the vet immediately.
• Degenerative Myelopathy
  It is a very serious condition where the spinal cord of your GSD degenerates to the point that they are unable to identify and use their hind legs. In a lot of cases, the dog may not be able to walk at all. It has been found in some cases, that this condition could be related to deficiency of Vitamin E and B12. However, according to most researches, the only way to put your pet out of this pain, sadly, is by putting them to sleep.
• Exocrine Pancreatic Insufficiency
  In this disease, the pancreatic cells that produce digestive enzymes get destroyed. As a result of this, the dog may not be able to digest anything, throws up often, loses appetite and weight. Luckily, pancreatic enzymes are available as supplements and can be added to your pet’s diet to compensate for the deficiency. Once your pet has received the medication, the chances of full recovery are great!
• Hypothyroidism
  Caused due to a deficiency of thyroxine, the symptoms of this disease include weight loss, excessive salivating and shedding. If you notice these symptoms, it is recommended that you visit the doctor. Fairly treatable with the administration of thyroid medication, the prognosis of your German Shepherd Dog is great!
• Canine Cancer
  While all pure bred dogs are at a risk of canine cancer, German Shephards are genetically predispositioned to a variety of cancers. This means that they are at a larger risk of developing these cancers compared to other dog breeds. Hemangiosarcoma and Osteosarcoma are two such cancers. Hemangiosarcoma, a malignant cancer of the circulatory system and Osteosarcoma, commonly known as bone cancer – both occur more frequently in German Shephards than other dog breeds.

ALSO READ: Everything About Canine Cancer

How to take care of your German Shepherd Dog

To take good care of your German Shepherd, it is advisable that you take care of the three pillars on which your pet’s health depends: Nutrition, Exercise, and Grooming. We may want to pamper our pooches from time to time, but it is highly recommended that these three things must never be ignored!

1. Nutrition:
   Good food is at the heart of nutrition. In a world blaring with too much information, it is advisable to stick to the basics. Dawgies have developed from wolves, who used to chase their preys, hunt them down, and eat them raw. Their bodies have evolved in a way that allows them to digest meat with the greatest ease. Hence, it is important to note that an all-vegetarian diet may not be in the best interest of your pooch’s health. Further, a balanced diet needs to have everything – proteins, carbohydrates, fats, vitamins, minerals, and other micronutrients. Your German Shepherd’s body needs proteins to help him grow, carbohydrates to give him the energy to play and be the cute pooch he is and vitamins and minerals to aid all the other systems in doing their work. A lot of studies show that it’s not only the food that matters but also its source. Leftover food scraps & meat byproducts are often sold to consumers in pretty packaging as pet foods. Obviously, these are not ideal for your pet.
    
   It is advisable that your pet gets the best of the very best! Since German Shepherds encounter dysplasias, extreme care needs to be taken while they’re still puppies. Adding calcium to their diets through natural sources like eggs and bones is a good idea. Fish is another great source of calcium. On the other hand, fruits rich in vitamins & minerals can also benefit your dawgie. As German Shepherds are also prone to degenerative myelopathy, adding fruits and vegetables to their diet which are rich in Vitamin E and B12 is highly recommended. Some of the dawgie-safe fruits are papaya, muskmelon, and watermelon.
    
   In order to help your dog, you must be able to notice what they’re trying to tell you. Once you know about the symptoms of a particular disease, it may help you in identifying a problem, and knowing when to take a call. If you’re aware of what your pet is eating, identifying the root of your pooch’s health issues becomes easier. A healthy dog, is indeed, a happy dog!
2. Exercise:
   For working dogs such as the German Shepherds, it is recommended that exercise form a major part of their schedule. This is because their bodies have been built for long working hours and mentally simulating situations. These dawgies were made for the ranch life, which required them to be on their toes, always on the lookout for missing cattle. They have thus, been blessed with bountiful energy. And since their environment is not the same anymore, they need to find an alternative way to spend all that energy. This is why it is advisable that German Shepherds get at least 60-90 minutes of daily exercise. And this exercise need not be the same every day. You can try different fetching games with your pooch, as they LOVE these. Most German Shepherd parents have often talked about how a bored and idle German Shepherd can unleash wrath, and it’s best to avoid that through a strict exercise regime.
3. Grooming:
   German ‘Shedders’ need grooming from time to time. Since these munchkins shed a lot, it is important to get the dead and decaying hair out from their coat, otherwise it may lead to itching and is not generally hygienic. Their coats must be brushed at least once a day to keep shedding under control. Most doctors advise that dawgie coat and ears be periodically examined for chances of an infection, especially during monsoon.

ALSO READ: Monsoon Tips for Pets & Pet-parents

Do you have a German Shepherd? Tell us about him/her in the comments below!

Labradors are the most popular breed among dogs. Even people who don’t know much about dogs can recognize ‘a Lab’ in an instance. Labradors are the perfectionists of the dawgie world. Their popularity has only increased since their early times. The proof of that lies in the fact that Labradors remain at the top of the list of registered dogs at the American Kennel Club. Muscular and athletic, Labrador Retrievers set a benchmark of agility and obedience for all the dog breeds to follow!

Even though Labradors have managed to top the charts in Canada, England, and the US to become the most loved breed on the planet, they happen to be the most abandoned dog breed in India.
 
This is not because Indian parents love their Labradors any lesser than their Western counterparts, but because of lack of information about this breed’s dietary & medical needs, health risks and awareness on how to cope up with them. Like all breeds, Labradors have special needs which could result in a lot of trouble for the pets and their parents, if ignored or not understood properly.
 
While Labradors are mostly associated with a mild temperament, their behavior has a lot to do with their training. A properly trained labrador can be employed as an assistance dog for the blind. But if not trained well, the results could be disastrous. This is because these dogs are always full of energy and if that energy is not channelized properly, its effects manifest all around the house. A torn couch or a mattress in tatters is not an uncommon sight in a house with an untrained Labrador.
 
Although the same is true for all dog breeds, Labradors pups, in particular, must begin their training as early as they open their eyes and start experiencing the world. Puppies must be familiarized with basic behavioral instructions like sit, stand, go, stop – which also happen to be the things your Labra full of energy will never do unless he is properly trained. Adult dogs must be taken on regular walks and other physical activities or sports, to give their energies a positive outlet. A tired dog is a happy dog.
 
Such concepts are still nascent in the Indian scenario. This is why most untrained pets become a source of havoc for their owners and end up being abandoned by them. And this is exactly where the difference between a pet owner and a pet parent arises.
 
As pet parents, even thinking about giving up our baby is unimaginable. So how do you put up with all the bad days to come? The answer to that lies in love. According to Swami Doggomitra, every problem, no matter how big or small, can be solved with love (and good food!). But true love requires patience and understanding. It also needs hard work and perseverance.
 
Now that you, dear Labrador parent/future Labrador parent have come this far, be assured that by the time you finish reading this article, you will learn about:

1. The history and origin of Labradors
2. The personality of a Labrador
3. Common medical problems with Labrador dogs
4. Environmental, nutritional and lifestyle needs of a Labrador Retriever
5. How to take good care of your Labrador Retriever dog?

The Legend of Labradors

Newfoundland is now a Canadian territory. But back in the 1700s, it was newly discovered and scantily inhabited. Geologists will tell you that when a warm and a cold ocean current meet, a mist is created, and it serves as an excellent breeding ground for fish. Newfoundland happened to be just the place where a cold current – Labrador current (coincidence?), and two warm currents called North Atlantic and Gulf Stream currents met. And the place happens to be an excellent fishing ground, to date. The bulk availability of fish happened to be the reason why a lot of people decided to make their living out of it and decided to sail the uncharted waters with their labrador buddies.
 
The original ancestor of Labrador Retrievers, St. John’s dogs, named after their creator, were around their fishermen masters all day. They’d retrieve fish from the water that missed the hooks and tow the stacks in lines. Tired by the end of the day, they would be happy dogs who would spend the night peacefully with their masters in their homes. These historical underpinnings tell us something about our Labrakids, as they are today: One, they are extremely athletic and love water sports. Two, they are amazing family dogs (*conditions applied!)
 

 
But things weren’t all hunky dory for the Labrador Retriever dog breed. In the 1880s, Labradors were almost extinct on the coasts of Newfoundland. This is because having a pet in that century put a person under the taxable bracket, and the taxes were huge! To make matters worse, female Labradors had higher taxes attached, and this is why female pups of the litter were usually culled.
 
So how did they survive? Well, luckily for us, when Newfoundland was still a happy place for Labradors, a lot of outsiders had begun to notice the multi-potential of dogs that the Labradors were. Among these outsiders, the second Earl of Malmesbury was so impressed that when he first laid his eyes on the Labradorian wonders, he sent a shipment of these to England and encouraged their raising. Labradors worked up the utility ladder in England and the USA and ended up being raised in numbers greater than those found in Newfoundland. So for our Labradors today, Thank Yous are in order to the Earl.
 

The Personality of a Labrador

They NEED the Exercise

Originally bred to work for long hours with their owners, a labrador’s body has evolved itself over the ages to work well only with lots of physical activity. They are always bubbling with loads of energy, and hence need at least 30-60 minutes of daily exercise. If this energy is not channelized properly, the dawgie may take up to spending this enthusiasm in tearing off pillows, bed sheets, seat covers and anything and everything they can catch a hold of. They can also resolve to loud barking, to spend that extra energy. 
 

They LOVE to EAT

Labradors simply LOVE to eat. And they can eat anything. This is why food packs and treats need to be kept out of their reach. As a pet parent, it is advisable that you limit the quantities of their food, as Labradors are very prone to obesity. Pet obesity may also trigger a lot of other disorders of the heart and blood. You may want to consult a dawgie nutritionist or vet and get a proper diet chart right from his puppy days to ensure that the fat and carb content in his food is restricted to healthy amounts.
 

They are HYPERACTIVE

Labradors are very lively pups who love to stay mentally stimulated. This is why it is important to not leave them alone, as they require someone to constantly play with them and help them spend their energy. They love adventure, and often may not be able to resist the urge to follow the smell of something exciting and may get lured away easily. This is why it is advisable to keep them on a leash when you take them outdoors unless they’re trained to respond to your call.
 

They are very friendly

Labradors are perfect family dogs. They love to be around people and enjoy being told that they are good boys. If you have little kids in the house, a Labrador is a perfect choice. They are very friendly and happy-go-lucky dogs who love to cheer up everyone around them. There’s never a dull moment with this breed. 
 

They shed a lot

Despite their short hair, Labradors are known for shedding a lot during a change of season. They are blessed with a water-resistant double coat which helps them stay warm in cold climates. As summer comes along, Labradors shed to make more surface of their coat available for a breath of fresh air. They’re considered one of the most shedding ones among the popular Indian breeds. 
 

They NEED training

Most people believe that labradors don’t need training as they are quite well behaved. But this is only a myth. Since Labradors are always bubbling with energy, they tend to be very jumpy. This energy may manifest itself as your dawgie jumping up on guests, rowdy behavior and incessant barking. With proper obedience training, which begins right from puppy time, you will be in better control of future situations that may arise.
 
 
 

Common Medical Problems with Labrador Retrievers

Labradors are a healthy breed. But like all breeds, they are prone to some medical conditions. While not all dogs may suffer from these, it’s always advantageous to know about them so that you know out when something is up with your pet and what to do about it.
 
Hip Dysplasia is one of the most common genetic diseases among dogs and even more so in Labradors. In this condition, the thigh bone doesn’t fit exactly as it should in the hip socket. The dog may experience pain in his rear legs, which may not be visible in the X-Ray, which is why it cannot be detected in the early stages of your poochie’s life. It becomes prominent as the dog ages and in most cases often develops into arthritis.
 
Another dysplasia that Lab boys are prone to be that of the elbow. However, this one is a little different than hip dysplasia. In Elbow Dysplasia, the three bones that make up your pup’s elbow grow at different rates, causing laxity. Dysplasias can be corrected surgically, and medication can help ease your boo’s pain. However, it’s important to remember that medication must only be given to your pet as prescribed by the vet. Human painkillers can be fatal for dogs.
 
Osteochondrosis Dissecans (OCD) is another disease of the elbows, common among Labradors. It is caused by an improper growth of cartilage in the joints, causing them to stiff up. This can be very painful for your dog. It can present itself to the point where the dog is unable to bend his elbow. It can be detected in dogs as early as four to nine months of age. Overfeeding protein to dogs is known to be the biggest reason for OCD among them. Hint: Dogs that gorge on only chicken or meat as their food are at maximum risk.
 
Cataracts in dogs are as common as cataracts in aged humans. In this disease, the eye lens gets clouded over time. It can happen at any age in dogs but do not usually result in complete loss of vision. Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA) is another eye disease in which the retina starts to degenerate. This often presents itself as night blindness, which can sometimes develop into complete blindness and loss of vision. But owing to their terrific sense of smell and sounds, most labradors can easily adapt to a life with poor vision, provided that their surroundings don’t change much.
 
Labradors may also suffer from Epilepsy. Epilepsy can be very scary for a pet parent as they watch their baby dog undergo a series of seizures. Seizures can be triggered for a variety of reasons unknown. If your dog shows signs of seizures such as running frantically as if being chased, hiding, or staggering, you must make that visit to the vet ASAP. Once the cause is diagnosed, epilepsy can be treated and the long-term prognosis is very good.
 
On the digestive front, Labradors are prone to bloat, or what is medically known as Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus. This is because of the large chest that they possess, and their anatomically larger belly. This can most commonly happen if the dog is fed a large meal, or exercises vigorously just after a meal, or drinks too much water. Bloat occurs when the dog’s stomach is full of gas and then twists. In such a condition, it becomes impossible for the pet to belch or vomit to relieve himself. The blood pressure drops and your pet may go into a cardiac shock. The best way to diagnose a belch is to look out for signs of your pet’s distended abdomen, excessive drools and retching without vomiting. In case you think you your pet is meeting any of these criteria, go see a vet immediately.
 
Labradors also fall victim to skin and ear infections because of their love for water. It is advisable that dogs be bathed with freshwater after a good swim to remove the chlorine that may have been in the water. This can prevent many skin diseases for your Lab baby.
 
 
 

Environmental, Nutritional and Lifestyle Needs of a Lab

Every good boy has a bad side. But Labbies don’t (or so they would have you believe!)
 
Labradors are one of the few hunks in the dawgie world who have an image that just can’t be tarnished unless you ignore them. A Labrador is a family dog. You cannot expect to leave your good-boy at home alone and expect your house to be still there when you come back. You turn your back on your labrador puppy and he will be the Taylor Swift in Look What You Made Me Do.
 
Labradors need all your attention and your time. Since they are always full of energy, it is very important to make sure they get at least an hour-long walk, a tough game of fetch, or a 30-minute swim routine to make sure they exhaust all the bursting energy in their body. Also make sure that they stay away from hard cemented or tiled flooring while exercising, as this can be very detrimental to their joints & bones. Open fields or parks with soil and grass on them are the ideal gym for your pet.
 
Always make sure that you don’t overdo the exercise routine. It’s ideal to split the walks or play-time into many windows throughout the day, each with a rest interval between them. Labradors are the ‘workaholics’ of the dawgie world, but can easily get overworked and tired, especially if they’re overweight. As pet parents, we are the ones in charge of starting and ending their workout regime. And knowing when to stop is the key.
 
Most Labradors often take obedience very seriously. This causes a misconception among a lot of pet parents who think these boys/girls are au-natural and don’t need any training. NEVER forget this: Labradors need the puppy training. Without it, they will grow up to be rowdy pets in nature and become impossible to cater to and take care of. Labradors are easily trainable. That is exactly why they are used in police agencies and intelligence bureaus all over the world to follow orders and act on directions.
 
Another important thing that a pet parent must keep in mind while raising a Labrador is that they love to chew; and more than ever in their puppy years. So keep a lot of chew toys around your baby Labrador, unless you want your sofa to be the chew-toy. 
 

How can I take care of these needs?

Now that you know all the diseases your pup is prone to and his needs, it is time to ponder upon how you can take care of these needs:
 
One, avoid leaving your Labradors at home, alone for long intervals. This is because they don’t do well with seclusion and their behavior will prove how much they hate you leaving them behind. Besides, why would you want to leave them alone, especially with those eyes? Basic obedience and behavioral training greatly help control the anxiety and aggression that’s built up during separation.
 
Two, an adequate amount of exercise is what your pet needs. The one thing that most vets & nutritionists believe in is that a tired labrador is a happy labrador. You may want to experiment with different activities ranging from cycling, jogging, walking, playing fetch to swimming. As far as possible, it is advisable that your pet plays on soil, and not cemented or tiled, hard flooring as this can be very harmful to his bone development and placement. Simple physics lead us to conclude that the harder the surface, the more is the reaction force on his bones. Labradors do better with laps of exercise rather than one exhausting workout. Overdoing exercise is not recommended. Under-exercising or not exercising at all leads to quick and easy obesity that adds a multifold of problems.
 
Three, nutrition is the key! Every dog needs a balanced diet that comprises of real food, not processed food, not table scraps and leftovers. Labradors’ diet needs to be rich in proteins, fat, carbohydrates, vitamins, minerals and essential micronutrients. They gain weight very quickly. They are more prone to getting obese than any other dog breed. So you must take care of the calories in their food and try to avoid unhealthy treats and food as much as possible. It is advisable that you check the nutritional information of every product you intend to feed your pet. Unsaturated fats and oils from vegetable sources (except Coconut) can be very unhealthy for your pet.
 
Proteins are important for your labrador’s growth. But these need to be very carefully given to your pet as an unbalanced quantity can cause bone deformities like dysplasias. For a healthier diet, it is recommended that your pet’s protein intake come from natural sources like fresh meat and poultry. Always check on the quantity and quality of food being fed to your pet to avoid an excess or toxicity of a certain nutrient while causing a deficiency of others. Since Labradors are prone to bone problems, a balanced calcium intake is a must. Note: Too much Calcium can cause kidney stones.
 
As these dog’s age, they get prone to eye diseases. Progressive Retinal Atrophy and cataract are the most common diseases that labradors face during their senior years. This is a natural degenerative process but can be slowed down by ensuring that your pet’s diet has an adequate amount of Vitamins. The best way to feed Vitamin A to your pet is by including carrots, beans, apples and bananas in your pet’s diet. Always remember that your pet’s body is not designed to digest plant-based nutrients with ease, so you might want to look up the do’s and don’ts before feeding a fruit or veggie to your pet.
 
Fruits and vegetables can only be included as additions to your pet’s diet, and are not a balanced and complete diet by themselves. From bloating to constipation, a lot of digestive problems can be avoided by striking the right balance between the goodness of a meat-based diet and the additional nutritional support of some fruits and vegetables. With a nutritionally balanced and complete diet, your Labrador will have a happy, disease-free and long life.
 
Four, periodic grooming is what your pet needs to steer clear of the skin infections. Labradors have an amazing affinity for water and that is why you need to make sure that his coat is always dry and clean. A freshwater bath is recommended if your pet goes for swimming or after rolling-up in that puddle of mud.  Always consult the vet at the appearance of any kinds of spots or rashes. It’s important to always be on the lookout for ear infections as well. As a general practice, it’s nice to keep your pet’s nails trimmed and his coat clean and dry.
 
 
 

Conclusion

Dawgies don’t need your shiny car or your fancy house. They just need a little bit of your heart, and to know that they will be taken care of; that is enough for them to wake you up every morning with snouty licking. Known for outdoing humans, Labradors surely outdo us when it comes to love. So when it comes to your labrador, make an informed decision for his health and safety and be the hooman your doggo thinks you to be!

Got a cute Lab-baby? Tell us about him/her in the comments below and let the awws begin!

Pugs are the living proof that good things come in small packets. They jump to us on their small paws and change our lives forever. Their wrinkly, short-muzzled faces with big and dark eyes are what sets them apart from all the other dog breeds. Pugs are becoming quite popular among Indian households; owing to their small size and affinity for kids. They have a number of special traits, like being intuitive to the needs of their owners.
 
This playful and attention craving breed is known to always stay close to their hoomans, sometimes as close as their shadows. This is because they’ve always grown up in human proximity, staying close to the nobility. Bigger than most toy breeds, and smaller than large ones, pugs are a sturdy company.

Pugs are not a wild breed. They definitely aren’t adventurous. That being said, they can go with you for walks. But jogging and heavy exercises are a strict NO. Their breathing troubles can take over owing to how intolerant they can be towards low and high temperatures. Though comparatively lower than other popular Indian household breeds, they shed a lot. They LOVE to take naps, and they also snort, making them one of the best snuggle buddies. But were they always the same?
 

The History of Pugs

Pugs have been walking the planet since the early 15th centuries, but the exact location of their origin is still unknown. Chinese texts show that pugs were bred to serve as companions for the royal families of the Ming Dynasty. They lived luxuriously and were guarded by the royal soldiers. That’s how Pugs became a familiar breed in the Asian subcontinent, and spread to southeast countries of Thailand, Laos, Vietnam and Cambodia. The Song Dynasty of China is to this day associated with the popularity of this breed.
 

 
Apart from their Chinese history, legend has it that a pug named Pompey saved the life of the Prince of Orange by alerting him of the approaching assailants. Pompey became the official dog of the House of Orange, Netherlands. To the French history, pugs have played the role of messengers. None other than Princess Josephine, before being married to Napoleon Bonaparte, had her pug carry messages of her well being when she was jailed at the Les Carmes. In the 19th century, the breed flourished under the patronage of Queen Victoria of England. Her many Pugs, which she bred herself, included Olga, Pedro, Minka, Fatima and Venus. Her involvement with dogs in general helped to establish the Kennel Club, which was formed in 1873.
 

The Pawsome Pugs – Personality and Temperament

Pugs are fun loving and charming. They are very intuitive to their owner’s needs and strive to please them. Here are some things you absolutely need to know before getting home a pug:
 

They will give you no ‘personal’ space

Your space is your pug’s space. Don’t expect any kind of privacy once your pug sets paw into your house. Their curly tag will wag and follow you no matter where you go; even if it’s the bathroom or the end of the world. That’s why Vodafone chose a pug in its commercial!
 

They shed a lot

If you’re getting a pug, expect to see some hair. They have a double coat which provides them with the warmth they need. Even though they shed throughout the year, spring is usually their peak shedding season. The shedding though can be taken care of with a balanced and complete diet. When pugs are nutritionally well-supplied, the shedding becomes a lot less troublesome.
 

 

They love to chow chow chow

Pugs love to eat, all the time, every time. Their pleading eyes can be a quagmire of cuteness overload. The good part about Pugs’ eating patterns is that they can eat almost anything. They are not very fussy when it comes to their food. But what they eat and how much, needs to be monitored. Pet Obesity is real, and can give way to cardiac and pulmonary issues if not catered to. Since Pugs are not very big on exercise too, their food needs to be monitored all the more closely.
 

They can take time to housetrain

This can become tougher if you live in places where the weather is too hot or too cold, as your pet would rather take a chill pill and rest indoors. Never wait for your puppy to grow older to start with the training. ‘It’s never too early’ is the mantra, otherwise you’re only giving time to your pet to become a moody Fido. Engage a professional trainer, and invest yourself in your dog’s training too. It’s a great opportunity to develop a bond with your boo.
 

They are really smart

Even though they were never bred to be working dogs, Pugs have a great sense of smell and agility, which can be perfected with the right training. Over the years, the number of pugs being included in police forces across the world has started to increase, for specialised tasks which involve smaller spaces.
 

They love walks!

Pugs are dawgies who love to nap. Known for their superpower to nap anywhere, anytime, these dawgies are in no way lazy. They like to play little fetch games and take long walks. But jogging and heavy sports are not recommended for a Pug, because of their tiny bodies and pulmonary troubles. It’s also very important to take them out for frequent walks, because they have tiny bladders.
 

Common Medical Problems with Pugs

Pugs are prone to a variety of issues, most of which are related to their genetic makeup. But the problem gets magnified when pets parents are not aware about these issues. In most cases, they observe the symptoms of trouble in their pet too late, and eventually the pug suffers. This makes it imperative to know the most common health problems your pug may develop.
 
This will help you notice the symptoms before it’s too late and will save you and your pet from a lot of trouble. Pugs are by and large low-maintenance when it comes to their health, provided that they have the right nutrition, exercise and timely vaccinations and visits to the vet. However, despite all this care, some situations can still pop up which you were never prepared for. Some of these common illnesses are:

• Brachycephalic Syndrome: Characterized by pinched nostrils and an elongated soft palate, this syndrome is common in breeds with shorter heads. Common symptoms include noisy breathing, excessive snoring, coughing and gagging. Dogs that gulp air in the process of attempting to eat may belch, gag, regurgitate, and/or vomit frequently. Accidental inhalation of food material into the lungs, resulting in infection in the lungs (aspiration pneumonia) is not uncommon in these cases. The condition, although genetic, gets worse as the pug gains weight.
   
  This syndrome is a double edged sword. If the pug goes out into the hot and humid weather, he’d get tired easily, and would gasp for more air through the pinched nostrils. Pugs normally have trouble breathing in harsh conditions. This puts pressure on their heart and lungs. But if the pet stays inside, he’s likely to stuff himself with a lot of food, and gain weight, which will again put pressure on his heart. The key is to limit the intake of food, keep the exercise balanced, and stay indoors during harsh weathers. In some cases, a corrective surgery can be done to fix the pinched nostrils and soft palate.

   

• Pug Dog Encephalitis (PDE): It is a breed specific diseases that causes severe inflammation of the brain and causes seizures and death. As scary as pet seizures sound, they’re real and need to be attended to. If you notice behavioral changes in your pet, make sure you consult your vet immediately. This disease has genetic roots, and currently a lot of research is being carried out to develop a genetic marker for PDE, which will, in the future, be able to identify the onset of such inflammation.
   
• Legg Calve Perthes Disease: This disease is common to most small dogs and its signs can be first observed when your puppy is about 6-7 months old. If you notice limping in your pug, make sure you take him to the vet. This is a bone deformity in which the blood supply gets cut off to the rear leg bone, and this causes the muscle and the bone to degrade. It can be removed with the help of a surgery which requires removal of the head bone. But it still doesn’t in any way diminish the risk of future arthritis.
   
• Hemivertebrae: Short-faced dawgies like Pugs, have the chances of a genetic condition called hemivertebrae in which the bones of the spinal cord are deformed. Some pugs have minor deformities, and develop a stagger as they grow. This can be seen in their walking patterns when they’re as small as 4-6 months old. The sad part about hemivertebrae is that there are no screening tests for it.
   
• Hip Dysplasia: Though common in larger pets, who almost always need hip replacement surgery, hip dysplasia is also present in smaller breeds like Shih Tzus and Pugs. In this bone deformity, the ball and socket joint is malformed. The ball and socket don’t properly meet, and grind instead of gliding together smoothly.
   
• Dental problems: Pugs may have teeth problems because there are too many teeth growing inside a very small mouth. Some teeth may have to be pulled out in order to make way for permanent ones, which if not removed, may cause crowding issues.
   
• Eye Injuries: Owing to how big their eyes are, they are also possess the risk of eye injuries like dry eyes, corneal ulcers, pigmentary keratitis, distichia (extra eyelashes that cause irritation) and entropion (a condition in which the eyelids curl inward and hairs on the outer eyelid can scratch and damage the cornea).

How can I take care of my Pug?

Since Pugs have only known hoomans of royal families to take care of all their needs, they’re all the more dependent on you. Urban domesticated dogs are not like the strays in terms of their instinct to scavange for food and feeding themselves, and letting nature do the rest. Pet dogs are dependent on us for all their needs. What they eat, how much they exercise, the cleanliness of their surroundings, and the upkeep of their bodies, everything depends on hooman convenience.
 

 
All your pet’s needs just lie on 3 Pillars: Nutrition, Exercise and Hygiene. Owing to the number of diseases they are prone to, it’s imperative for you to take all necessary steps to ensure that all three of these needs are met adequately.
 

1. Nutrition

It is quite rightly said that healthy dogs are happy dogs. If your pet keeps contracting illnesses, he’d be in constant pain; watching him like that wouldn’t be easy for you! What they eat, how much they, and how many times they eat completely depends on their hooman parent. To ensure that your pet pug is in the pink of his health, you need to carefully monitor what goes into his tummy.
 
A balanced diet is a healthy diet. Dogs have evolved from wild species of hounds and wolves, known to fend for themselves and gorge on the fresh and tasty meat from the smaller animals they’d hunt. After generations, the dawgie bodies have evolved in a way that they still require a major part of the same nutrients that their ancestors did, i.e. meat protein and fats.
 
Since your pet Pug can’t hunt, you need to make sure that his nutritional needs are met. Pets need to be fed a balanced diet of proteins, fats, carbohydrates, vitamins, minerals, enzymes and other micronutrients, which are essential for their growth and upkeep. The important thing to note here is that the source of these nutrients is just as important. For example, meat and leather by-products and plant based diets are a BAD source of protein for your pug, whereas raw and fresh meat, chicken, fish and other poultry are GOOD sources of protein. If you feed processed and packaged foods to your pet, you must absolutely know what goes into these foods. Most commercial pet foods contain meat by-products and leftovers, contain toxic chemical-based colors, flavors & preservatives and are extremely unsafe for your pet.
 
While proteins are absolutely essential for growth and upkeep of your pug’s body, he also needs the carbs for energy. But take special note of the quantity of carbs you’re feeding to your pet, especially if they are more likely to stay indoors, as in the case of Pugs. Undigested carbs make way for stored fat, which leads to obesity. Obesity is the leading cause of increasing pulmonary and cardiac issues in pets. Since Pugs are not big on the exercise bit, you must ensure that their diet is designed to suit their lifestage and lifestyle. Pugs must always stay clear of sugar and sweets. Their small size makes them extremely vulnerable to diabetes.
 
Pugs are prone to bone deformities; their calcium intake needs to be closely monitored. Most vets advise calcium supplements for bone issues, but an overdose of calcium can cause stones and renal issues. To keep dental issues at bay, make sure you include fruits and vegetables in your pug’s diet. A fibrous diet reduces the chances of plaque formation as well as constipation. Always check the fruits and veggies that are suitable for your Pugster and feed them in small portions to avoid the risk of choking. Keep human food out of the reach of your pug, and monitor the calories you’re feeding him. Always consult a pet nutritionist before changing your pet’s diet, and make the change gradual so it’s easier on your pug’s stomach.
 

2. Exercise

Even though they’re known as the couch potatoes of the dawgie world, they’re not. Pugs don’t need a lot of exercise, but it is ideal to take your pug for at least two 20-30 minute walks everyday. Running and exercises involving heavy breathing are not recommended, but a little bit of activity is required everyday to keep their weight in check.
 
An important thing to remember is that pugs get overheated easily. So it is not recommended to take your pug out on sunny or hot days. In humid temperatures, you must take extra care to ensure that their skin doesn’t get irritable, and always be on the lookout for rashes.
 
Since monsoon is almost always accompanied with storms, never take your pet out on days that are windy or stormy, as their eyes would be put to MAXIMUM RISK in such situations. Their large eyes are extremely sensitive. Twigs and small pieces of foreign material can sometimes even cause permanent damage to your pug’s eyes. Be extra careful with your pug!
 
Even their breathing and snoring will tell you everything about their health. Listen closely for any muffled, congested or gagged sounds, and take your pug to the vet immediately if you notice any.
 

3. Grooming & Hygiene

Since pugs are mostly indoors, their hygiene most obviously depends on the conditions of their environment. Make sure that the home is well ventilated, and doesn’t get heated up quickly. Fleas, ticks and other bacteria can be a serious issue for your pug; so can the chemicals present in the floor cleaners. The best alternative is to use natural disinfectants like neem water or just plain water to clean your home and surroundings.
 
Give your pug a simple bath with plain water and a vegetable oil-based soap, every 1-3 weeks depending on the weather. Use minimum products on your pug, as they’re extremely sensitive to the chemicals and fragrances used in most pet grooming products. Brushing his coat regularly can streamline his shedding pattern, if not reduce it altogether.
 
During monsoons, pugs tend to develop a fungal or bacterial growth in the folds of skin on their face. Use a warm moist cloth and clean the folds of their face every few days, more frequently during the rainy season. Wash his paws after walks with clean water to ensure that no foreign material makes its way to their coat. Keep their nails trimmed and just keep giving them enough belly scratches and back rubs, they’ll tell you what they’re up to themselves.
 

Wrapping up

The Beatles were right when they said, “All you need is love.” When it comes to our dawgies, love includes good nutrition, sufficient exercise and good hygiene. Dawgies make our lives whole. They deserve the best this world has to offer. And sometimes, no matter how hard we try to give them the best, we end up making choices that our pets have to live with.
 
Being a parent is a tough job! More than often, we may not understand what our pets need and what is right or wrong for them. In this world of loud publicity and deep rooted materialism, we often tend to miss out on what’s really good and get lured by what just ‘looks’ good on its packet value. The best choice to make for your pet is an informed one.

Know that in this journey of pet parenthood, you are not alone. We’ve got you covered with all the information ammo you’ll ever need, for a healthy time with your Pawstar! Welcome to the DawgieBowl family.

If you’re looking for the Jon Snow of the dawgie world, a Beagle would be a perfect choice.
 
Not only do they make the world’s best scent hound dogs, but also have a cool temperament. Often described as fierce and yet friendly, Beagles make excellent dogs for investigation services; and are also great companions. In India, they are becoming increasingly popular in urban homes. They are also becoming a part of our investigation agencies, owing to their super scent powers.

Known for their amazing sense of smell and pleading hazel eyes, Beagles make one of the most loyal, kind and fun breeds. Owing to their quirky nature, they feature in various artworks and pictographic & fictional texts. The most popular one being the comic Peanuts, which made Snoopy the world’s most popular Beagle! They are excellent family dogs. History suggests that they always love to travel in packs; they love company.
 

 

How did Beagles become like they are today?

Records from the medieval times show that the white, slow, deep-throated scent hound, Talbot is the original ancestor of the modern day Beagle. Talbots were from Greece. William, the Conqueror brought them into Britain. To increase their speed, Talbots were crossed with the Greyhounds.
 

 
During that time, ‘Beagle’ was used as a generic term for small hound dogs. Famous in royal circles, Beagles were referred to as ‘Pocket Beagles’ as they were small enough to fit a pocket or a saddlebag. Princes and warriors would take them along on hunts. They would chase the game like hares or rabbits out for the men to hunt them down. Queen Elizabeth called her’s ‘singing Beagles’, as they would entertain the guests at royal parties.
 
From those times to the 18th century, only two main varieties of Beagles survived. They were the Southern Hound Beagles, and the North Country Beagles. They were bred with Stag Hounds to improve their speed and scent ability, which produced the modern Foxhound. These Foxhounds had excellent hunting skills and laid the genetic foundation for the Beagles today. The exact origin of Beagles still has a shroud of mystery. But gene researchers have agreed that the present varieties share a common ancestor, the English Foxhound.
 

 

The Personality of a Beagle

These tri-colored breeds have a square cut muzzle; it has over 270 million scent glands that are capable of detecting the faintest of smells. Adventurous and fun-loving by nature, a Beagle will never fear to stray away to enjoy a picnic of his own. If you’re planning on adopting a Beagle, here are some things that you should keep in mind:
 

Beagles get bored easily

Beagles were bred to hunt. Hunting is a tough task, it requires physical strength and mental skills & intinct. Nature’s process of Evolution developed them into beings that were capable of both. So biologically, they are made for a life of adventure that keeps their bubbling energy levels in check. If you want to have a Beagle in your apartment, make sure you resort to activities that stimulate his mind and body. They hate being left alone and take to destructive activities to amuse themselves as their way of expending energy. They may even get to a point where they start digging a tunnel hoping to get their way out of your home. You’ve got to make sure someone is around them all the time.
 

Beagles bark too much

Beagles have three distinct barking patterns. Each of them is an indicator of either separation anxiety, excitation or a need, like hunger. One of the patterns could be characterized as howling, which can be difficult to manage in apartments or societies where neighbors complain of noise. Their howl forms one of the most common reasons why they get abandoned by their owners, and get turned over to rescue shelters. To prevent this, make sure you work with his trainer to find a way around this habit and control it.
 

Beagles shed a lot

Don’t be fooled by their short and shiny coat. Beagles have dense and short hair, and they may seem like a dog breed that would not shed too much. But like all dogs, they do; Beagles shed a lot. Beagles grow a double coat of longer, thicker hair during colder seasons to protect them from the winter. They shed these hair during the spring to prepare for the hotter seasons. Beagles rank #3 on the list of most shedding dog breeds, but a balanced diet and regular grooming for your Beagle could easily let your hair down.
 

Beagles are difficult to house-train

Although they are kind and loving, there is also an element of rebellion in their nature. This makes them difficult to house-train. Crate training is highly recommended for Beagles. Bring in an Obedience Trainer who keeps on handing out treats for good behavior, and you’re set. Beagles won’t ever say no to treats!
 

Beagles are ‘chow hounds’

This means they will find the food in your house, no matter where you hide it. Since they are scent hounds, they are great at tracing packets of food you have kept for them. They will even raid your trash cans to hunt for food. Once they find their food, they have absolutely NO control over how much they eat. This is why they need regulated quantities of food, especially in situations where they do not get a lot of exercise; else it may lead to obesity and other health problems.
 

Beagles take their food very seriously

If you’ve got a baby or kids in the house, you have to teach them to respect your pet’s meal time. Beagles are very possessive about what they eat, and will never share. There have been instances where Beagles have displayed aggression when a third-party interfered with their food.
 

Beagles are not good protection or guard dogs

Due to their ultra-friendly nature, they may even lead up the thieves to your house and feel great about it. Food is the best bribe for a Beagle. Their corrupt belly is exactly what excludes them from being good guard dogs.
 

 

Common Medical Problems with Beagles

Even though Beagles exhibit the least number of medical problems compared to other dog breeds, their problems are quite unique. If you’re a Beagle parent or are looking forward to welcoming a Beagle in your family, this section is a MUST READ for you!

• Intervertebral Disc Disease: In dawgies, like in hoomans, a vertebral column surrounds the spinal cord. Between the bones of the vertebral columns are intervertebral discs, that act as shock absorbers, and allow the normal movement of your Beagle. Each of these discs is made up of two layers; an outer fibrous one, and an inner jelly-like layer. The intervertebral disc disease occurs when the inner layer protrudes out into the spinal canal and pushes against the spinal cord. This exerts pressure on the spinal cord and causes neck and back pain. When the spinal compression is too much, your Beagle may lose sensation, bowel and bladder control. This can further give way to paralysis. The sad part is that the damage caused by such compression is irreversible. Surgery is usually recommended for spinal correction but has a bad success record.
   
• Hip Dysplasia: It is a genetically acquired disease in which the thigh bone doesn’t fit into the hip socket. Some dogs exhibit pain and limping on one side of their hip if they’re tested positive for hip dysplasia. In the later stages of life, hip dysplasia can develop into arthritis.
   
• Cherry Eye: This is a condition in which the gland under the third eyelid protrudes and looks rather like a cherry in the corner of the eye. They are usually harmless, unless they grow too big and start causing obstruction in vision or damage to the eye. Your Beagle may then need a minor surgery to remove the gland.
   
• Glaucoma: This is a painful disease in which pressure in the eye becomes abnormally high. Eyes are constantly producing and draining a fluid called Aqueous Humor. If the fluid doesn’t drain correctly, the pressure inside the eye increases. This damages to optic nerve and results in vision loss and blindness.
   
• Progressive Retinal Atrophy: This is a degenerative eye disorder that eventually causes blindness. It leads to a loss of photoreceptors at the back of the eye. PRA is detectable years before the dog shows any signs of blindness. Fortunately, dogs can use other senses to compensate for loss of sight. A blind dog can live a full and happy life. Just don’t move the furniture around too much.
   
• Distichiasis: This condition occurs when an additional row of eyelashes (known as distichia) grows on the oil glands in the dog’s eye. They protrude along the edge of the eyelid. This irritates the eye, and you may notice your Beagle squinting or rubbing his eye(s). Distichiasis is surgically treated by freezing the excess eyelashes with liquid nitrogen and then removing them. Done under general anesthesia, this surgery is called Cryoepilation.
   
• Epilepsy: This is a neurological condition that’s often inherited genetically. Epilepsy can cause mild or severe seizures, that may manifest as unusual behaviors such as running frantically as if being chased, staggering, hiding or even falling down. Your Beagle may lose consciousness, limbs may get stiff and he or she may lose bladder control during the fit. The seizures should dissipate in a few seconds to about a minute, but it will seem like an eternity for you and your pet. It’s extremely important that you stay calm during this time. Stay near your dog, and support his head so he doesn’t choke on his saliva or vomit. Gently stroke his head and chest while you wait for the seizure to subside. If the seizure lasts for more than 90 seconds, take your dog to an emergency vet immediately.
   
• Hypothyroidism: Hypothyroidism is a disorder of the thyroid gland. It’s thought to be responsible for conditions such as epilepsy, alopecia (hair loss), obesity, lethargy, hyperpigmentation, pyoderma, and other skin conditions. Medication and a carefully planned diet are used as treatment.
   
• Beagle Dwarfism: This is a condition where the dog is smaller than normal. This condition may or may not be accompanied by other physical abnormalities, such as extremely short legs.
   
• Chinese Beagle Syndrome (CBS): A wide skull and slanted eyes characterize this condition. The dog grows normally otherwise. Quite often, dogs with CBS have heart problems and toe abnormalities.

How to take care of your Beagle?

1. Nutrition

Beagles love to chow down on food, and it comes naturally to them. It is very hard for them to keep a control over what they’re eating and in what quantity. They are usually very particular and punctual about their food habits. If not fed at their regular time, they start jumping and barking a lot. Always ensure that the food they are ‘chowing down’ is rich in nutrients and in moderated portions. Thanks to their love for food, Beagles are very likely to suffer with obesity. Obesity increases chances of cardiovascular and pulmonary diseases and becomes a major reason for slipped intervertebral discs in senior dogs.
 
Beagles face a family of health issues relating to abnormal bone growth. Their bones get weaker as they age and are unable to support the sedentary lifestyle Urban Beagles are used to living. Like all dogs, Beagles need strong bones and teeth – hence, need Calcium. Your Beagle’s diet must be rich in calcium from bones and eggs. Calcium supplements must only be introduced to your pet after consulting with a vet or nutrionist. If your pet stays on an irritable bowel, calcium may further the risk of stone formation.
 
Beagles also tend to have sensitive eyes. Vitamins A (beta-carotene), C, E, Zinc and Omega-3 fatty acids should be an integral part of your Beagle’s diet. Your pet’s diet needs to include carrots, green leafy vegetables, eggs, fish liver oil and yellow fruits. They may not eliminate the problems or their risk entirely, but will develop a better resilience in your pet. Make sure you start including these as a part of your Beagle’s diet while he’s still a pupper. It will help him immensely during his years of growth. Refrain from feeding your pet multivitamin supplements meant for humans. An excess of certain vitamins can lead to toxicity in dogs and cats.
 
To summarize, Beagles are prone to a very specific set of diseases and diet can play a major role in your pet’s life. Be it diseases of the heart, bones or digestion, good food habits can go a long way in making significant lifestyle changes for your pet.
 
Traditionally, Beagles are not known to be fussy eaters; they love food. However, if your dog is not getting enough exercise, has a poor metabolism or weakened immunity, possibly due to an infection during puppyhood – he could show signs of selective eating. Sometimes, over-pampering your Beagle boy or girl could also make your pet fussy about food. Not only this habit causes a lot of hardships for families trying to provide food for their brat Beagle, but it could also lead to several deficiencies and thus, diseases in the long term. It’s not easy, but fussy food habits can be fixed.
 
Even though your Beagle won’t be picky about his food choices, as a pet parent, you absolutely should be! Make sure that he’s eating what his body deserves and needs. Steer clear of processed packaged foods for your Beagle. Commercial pet foods usually follow a one-size-fits-all approach. Though they match the thriving pace of the 2-minute generation, the credibility of their ingredients has always been questionable. They’re often loaded with by-products from the meat and leather industry, food fillers, artificial colors, flavors and preservatives – all of which hurt your baby.
 
Your Beagle needs real food. Nothing matches the wholesome goodness that real meat, eggs, veggies, and fruits provide to the apple of your eye. When it comes to your baby Beagle’s health, never compromise!
 

2. Exercise

Born to be hunters, Beagles are storehouses of energy. They are always buzzing with an energy that’s trying to find an outlet. Beagles cannot rest until that energy is spent. Beagles who lack enough physical simulation develop behavioral issues. That’s why their exercise needs to be rigorous. Take him for different exercise regimes. You can always mix your regime with his, and go out for a run, a refreshing swim or an early morning cycling trip with him; you ride the bicycle though.
 
The point is, Beagles need exercise on a daily basis; rigorous physical exercise. They’re built for the outdoors, for adventure and exploration. If you don’t get the time to go out with your Beagle every day, you need to consider lowering his calorie intake. Knowing their knack for nature, make sure that whenever you head out, they have a leash on. Their sense of adventure knows no bounds, and they follow smells to amuse themselves.

MUST READ: Simple Exercises to Keep Your Pet Healthy

3. Grooming

Beagles shed a lot, but since the hair isn’t too long, it doesn’t seem too prominent. Their coat is resistant to rain and gets thicker in the winter to protect them from the cold. This is exactly why they shed a lot throughout the year. Even more so in spring to make way for a lesser hair season during the summers. That’s why their double coat needs frequent brushing with a medium sized brush.
 
If your Beagle eats a species appropriate diet, dental health isn’t something you should worry about. The texture of the food will clean their teeth and gums as they chew and tear it down to bits. A soft, non-syntheic chew toy is another great way to maintain their dental hygeine. Otherwise make sure you brush their teeth twice a week to keep the tartar build up at bay. Human toothpaste could be fatal for your dog because of the artificial sweeteners and flavors it contains, so refrain from using it.
 
Their nails must be trimmed when they grow, as they may serve as a breeding ground for bacteria. Long toenails put pressure on the paws while walking on hard flooring in our homes, causing extreme pain and discomfort. With time, it can lead to joint issues in the dog’s limbs. You must be careful while trimming your dog’s toenails, as they have blood vessels in them; if you trim too much, you may cause bleeding.

ALSO READ: Grooming Tips for Your Pet Dog

Conclusion

Beagles are the real Snoop Dawgies. Even though they are made for the hound life, we cannot resist the charm of their eyes. Raising a Beagle well in an urban setup can be hard, but it’s definitely doable. With the right nutrition, exercise, and grooming, Beagles can have a longer life-expectancy than the usual 8-year mark. Just make sure that you and your Beagle visit the vet periodically to monitor their health. Love your Beagle boy or girl immensely, and get endless love in return. Just go easy on those treats!

Got a question about your Beagle baby? Ask us in the comments below.

Every dog has a shedding season. Shedding is a natural phenomenon in which dogs shed the dead and damaged hair off their coats. It happens across all breeds, but its frequency and magnitude depend on factors like climate, nutrition, and medical & hygienic conditions; and that is why shedding needs to be monitored carefully.

The quantity of hair that your dog sheds can say a lot about their health. It is a well-known concept that normally, healthier dogs shed less. Good nutrition and healthy & hygienic conditions ensure that hair growth and fiber strength remain intact. They also keep your pet away from illnesses like rashes, ticks, flea, worms, etc., which may cause increased shedding.

Shedding is perfectly natural, but it can be inconvenient for pet parents who have reactions to the allergen particles released with shedding.

In the following list, we have put together 6 dog breeds that shed the most, to help you know what to expect with these sheddy boys!

1. Labradors

Despite being a short haired breed, Labradors shed a lot throughout the year; even more profusely so, twice a year during the spring and autumn. This is so because even though their hair is short, they are highly dense. Further, they boast a double coat of hair; the outer one is waterproof, and the inner one gives them warmth. Labradors shed so much you might want to keep your vacuum cleaners ready before their shedding season!
 

2. Golden Retrievers

Like Labradors, Golden Retrievers are known for profuse shedding throughout the year. Their golden coat requires high maintenance, and if you have a golden retriever, you will be sure to find their hair EVERYWHERE. Also blessed with a double coat like Labradors, Goldens in warmer areas shed a lot more than those in colder regions. They are known for shedding a lot to maintain their body temperatures in warmer climates. They need to be brushed day in and day out to make sure their dense coat stays infection free.
 

3. Beagles

Known for being notoriously smart and playful, Beagles have dense and short hair. It is because of the length of their hair that they are often mistaken as dogs who don’t shed. But like all dogs, beagles shed; and a lot at that. Another one with the double coat feature, beagles are known for shedding in spring. This is so because the length of their hair increases in winter for providing them with warmth and automatically starts shedding off as its requirement eases.
 

4. Siberian Huskies

Don’t let their hypnotic eyes and soft overcoats fool you. Huskies shed a LOT. Originally meant for the colder climates, this breed is slowly making its way into desi households – with subtropical to tropical temperatures. As a result of this habitat change, huskies shed to get rid of their hair to stay cooler. If you’re planning to get a husky, be prepared to find his hair everywhere he goes. To keep shedding under control, they need to be brushed AND vacuumed daily to make sure they don’t over-shed.
 

5. Saint Bernards

This breed is known for being an excellent family dog. Even more so, Saint Bernards fit into any family, be it joint or nuclear, because of how low maintenance their breed is. While many pet bloggers believe that they need a little exercise, they forget to tell you how high maintenance their coats are. Saint Bernards shed a lot of hair, especially during the spring and autumn. They need to be brushed at least 4 times a week to make sure their coat stays free from infection.
 

6. German Shepherds

They are more commonly known as ‘German Shedders’ because of a very simple reason; they shed too much. With this breed, you need to be prepared to brush their coat every day. When you have a GSD, you cannot afford to miss a day of brushing their hair to make sure their skin retains a no infection status.
 
 
The golden rule about shedding is simple: too much shedding is bad. If your dog is shedding too much, it could be indicative of a health problem. As a responsible pet parent, you need to monitor your pet’s shedding pattern and go to the vet immediately if you find that your pet is shedding too much, or if patches of skin start surfacing.

If your dog is on a shedding spree, it could be due to one of the following reasons:

• Nutrition: Nutrition is the key to your pet’s health. What goes into your dog’s food, needs to be carefully monitored to ensure that he/she stays away from issues that may be disruptive to growth. For a beautiful, shiny coat, a dog’s diet must be rich in minerals like zinc, iodine, and selenium; Vitamins A, D, E and K and Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids. Not only do these ensure an active immune system, but also a flawless and healthy skin and coat. Ensuring this dietary balance could sometimes be tricky, that’s why our meals are carefully pawcrafted to ensure that your dog grows the wings he deserves.
   
• Medical: Hormones have an important role to play when it comes to skin. Female pets are prone to hormonal imbalances at the time of heat. The imbalance of estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone hormones have been known to cause shedding in dogs. Make sure that you pay a visit to your vet in case you find something irregular about your dog’s shedding pattern; as it could have to do with his/her hormones.
   
• Skin Infections: Skin infections are very common in dogs. A lot of people suspect that only outdoor agents are responsible for these, but some indoor agents like floor cleaners, phenyl and unhygienic growth like fungus can act as irritants, and cause a lot of shedding. If your dog likes to swim, you need to make sure that when you get home, you wash his coat with clean water, and dry it with care. Always be on the lookout for rashes! If you find a suspicious rash, go see a vet immediately.
  

  MUST READ: Your Complete Guide To Skin Care in Dogs

• Products: Microbeads and fillers present in shampoos and soaps have a tendency to remain in your dog’s coat. This is why you need to make sure that whenever you take your pet for their wash, their coat is devoid of any kind of chemical agents.
   
• Lack of Grooming: Brushing your pet’s coat is a very healthy exercise. If your pet sheds a lot you might want to do this on a daily basis. Not only does this brush out the dust and particulate matter that gets settled on the coat, but also removes the decaying and dead hair, allows ventilation to the inner skin and coat, and in turn causes less shedding.
  

  ALSO READ: Gordon’s Gotta Glow: Grooming tips to keep your dog healthy

Good food is at the heart of good health. Researchers say that most of the ailments that dogs face are because of food-related discrepancies. If your pet is undergoing shedding issues, make sure he’s eating right. Our meals come in ready-to-serve individual packs, that make feeding so simple. All you have to do is pour, stir and watch your dog lick the bowl squeaky clean!

Start today, so that your baby gets the right nutrition and you get a good night’s sleep.

A dog’s coat protects them from the environment outside and maintains their body temperature. Shedding is a natural way for dogs to get rid of old and damaged hair. Although it is largely a natural process and happens with every dog, the magnitude and frequency of shedding differ across breeds. Shedding is also indicative of the health of the dog; healthier dogs shed less.

Further, it also depends on the season. For example, dogs are known for growing a thick coat of hair for protection against the cold during winter, but as spring dawns, they shed this coat in response to the rising mercury.

Even though shedding is natural, it can be messy. You may have a problem with pet hair everywhere. Besides, shedding releases particles that could cause allergies to some people.

But that shouldn’t come in the way of your canine love. Luckily, we are blessed with many dog breeds that shed very little; reaffirming our faith that love comes in all shapes, sizes and shedding capacities.

Here are 7 dog breeds that shed the least:

1. Shih Tzus

Their name literally translates to Lion Dog in Chinese. Misleading as their long locks of hair may make them look, Shih Tzus are known for little to no shedding. Perfect cuddle buddies, graceful and kings of the household, Shih Tzus are known for being one of the most obedient breeds.
 

2. Doberman Pinschers

Tall, powerful and fiercely protective, Doberman Pinschers are known for their ultra minimal maintenance coats. Short-haired and always on the move, this breed sheds very little; and even this can be kept under control through regular brushing and checking for ticks, lice and any other bacterial infections.
 

3. Dachshunds

Dachshund coat comes in three different types: smooth, long-haired and wire-haired. The longer your Dachshund’s coat, the more maintenance he requires. Smooth-haired Dachshunds shed the least, and require minimal brushing. On the other hand, the other two varieties require their dead hair to be untangled and even plucked, to maintain their hygiene. But overall, this breed sheds very little.
 

4. Boxers

Boxers are self-groomers and require very little to no maintenance. They are short-haired, and even though they shed year round, it is minimal. Due to this advantage along with their athleticism, they work as amazing guard dogs with security forces. Brush these cuties once a week, and they’re good to go.
 

5. Indian Pariahs

Slowly making their way into homes, the Indian Pariah dogs make for great companions. They have a short, coarse coat, with no undercoat; which is why even though they shed, it doesn’t really seem like they do.
 

6. Dalmatians

Known for their ‘spot’-less reputation as good family dogs, Dalmatians shed a little more than the above breeds. However, it can be kept under control through good nutrition and skin care.
 

7. Pugs

Another common Indian household breed, Pugs, are known for shedding less than their counterparts. They are short haired. Even though their hair cycle (which includes growth, rest, and fall out) is quite speedy, their shedding is quite controllable and avoidable. The best way to go about making your pug shed very little is to ensure that he gets a bath once in 3 weeks and gets a good brushing before and after each bath.
 
 
Now that you are aware of the not-so-Shedd-y breeds, make sure to watch out for your pet’s shedding carefully, as it is an important indicator of their health. If your pet is shedding more than usual, it could be because of one of the following reasons:

• Nutrition
  Every dog needs a balanced diet. In case his nutritional needs are not fulfilled, or if he gets low-quality food, he’ll shed more. Make sure that your pet’s diet includes vitamins A, D & K, minerals like Zinc, Selenium & Iodine, and an abundance of Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids. Presence of these ingredients in your pet’s diet not only ensures a coat that doesn’t shed much but also keeps the growth patterns consistent.
   
• Medical
  Apart from dietary issues, some pets face hormonal issues which may also trigger hypothyroidism. Abnormal levels of estrogen, testosterone, and progesterone are additional factors for loss of coat in dogs. Female pets often shed a lot during the time of heat. This is also witnessed during the time of pregnancy and lactation.
   
• Skin Infections
  Playful creatures that they are, dogs are prone to a number of skin issues. They can occur due to outdoor as well as indoor agents. When outdoors, pets can get infested with parasites such as fleas, ticks, or worms, which may sometimes even make their way into their bodies and increase the damage manifold by affecting their internal organs. Inside the house, they can get affected by phenyl or floor cleaners, and unsanitary growth, like fungus.

  MUST READ: Your Complete Guide To Skin Care in Dogs

• Products
  Synthetic and chemical based products like off-the-shelf doggie shampoos, soaps and moisturizers may contain fillers and microbeads, which instead of their exfoliating action, tend to get stuck in your pet’s coat and cause irritation and allergies.
   
• Lack of Grooming
  Pets gather dust, pollution and a lot of foreign particles no matter where they go. Before this develops into a skin problem, it is important that these particles be brushed out. Brushing the coat achieves another advantage of discarding the decaying and dead hair, causing less shedding.

  ALSO READ: Gordon’s Gotta Glow: Grooming tips to keep your dog healthy

As pet parents, it is imperative to remember what shedding signifies for your pets. Normally pets shed once a year, or sometimes seasonally. What you need to watch out for, is that shedding shouldn’t result in missing patches of fur from your dog’s coat. In case you see that happen, you need to visit the vet immediately.

Does your doggo shed a lot? Make sure he’s eating right. After all, you are what you eat. Dogs must receive a lot of protein and fats from animal sources. DawgieBowl ensures that your pet always eats like every baby should – Healthy! Our vet-formulated diets are carefully pawcrafted from all real ingredients and contain no preservatives, colors or synthetic flavors that would hurt your darling. Start your plan today!

Think we missed a breed that should be on the list? Tell us in the comments below.

Those luscious, golden-brown, soft, flowy fur of a golden retriever is what we all dream of, running our fingers through, since we set our eyes on those fluffy puppies. The dream of cuddling their warm bodies, on a cold winter morning is what we all live for! Golden Retrievers are known to every human as the most ideal pet dog, besides a Labrador and a Pug. Now if you’ve thought or rather decided to get a ‘Golden’ child home, then here is your expert guide to bringing them up, effortlessly!

Breed Snapshot

They are easily domesticated, friendly with kids and the elderly in the house. The retrievers, as their names suggest ‘retrieve’, in the by gone era, game and now the toys! They were bred to herd cattle to the fields and back; and were also trained to ward off the wolves. This breed came into existence around the 19^th century, in the Scotland, where wildfowl hunting was a sport for the royalty. They possess massive energy and vigor, hence they need ample physical and mental exercise, to keep them active and healthy. They’re susceptible to a number of diseases, and hence need special attention on diet and exercise, especially during the puppy stages.

Historical Development

The origin of this regal breed can be traced back to 19^th century Scotland. The need for retrievers arrived when there was a cultural trend to go wildfowl-hunting for recreational purposes. The retrievers of yesteryears were expected to fetch the game once their masters shot it. These retrievers faced difficulty when they had to run long distances or had to traverse through water. Thus came the thought to make a breed that would have these qualities. The best water spaniels were cross-bred with the most agile retrievers, and after initial failures, they came up with the Golden Retriever.

The hunting scenario changed when guns were invented. The shooting range became wider and farther, thus compelling the hunters to train their retrievers to be agile, playful, obedient and very vigorous.

The retrievers traveled far and wide, from Scotland to The Great Britain (and her colonies) and America. In 1903, these darlings were registered under the Kennel Club of England as “Flat Coated –Golden”

Medical Facts & Common Problems

The average age of a Golden Retriever is 10-12 years. Their genetic build makes them susceptible to numerous diseases. Hence, regular vet visits are a must. The list of their ailments are as follows:

Obesity: Goldens LOVES to eat, hence obesity is a regular occurrence. The shift to an urban lifestyle, where the owner and the dog are relatively lazy, adds to their obesity.

Cardiac Disorder: Cardiac disorders occur with obesity due to fat blocking their arteries.

Subaortic Stenosis: The narrowing of the aorta that carries blood away from the heart. This can be detected when your child is a puppy, through heart murmurs, but sadly not often is it recognizable.

Hip Dysplasia: A commonality amongst this breed, where the hip suffers major contractions or seizures. Furthermore, this condition can cause a severe case of osteoarthritis. Growing up, many retrievers suffer from elbow deformities, which cannot be always detected accurately.

Cancer: Vets have labelled retrievers as ‘Cancer Retrievers’ because the breed is prone to cancer, sadly.

Eye problems occur, as well as cataracts, as they age. Since they shed a lot of hair, they’re vulnerable to skin diseases, such as flea allergies.

ALSO READ: Pet Cancer is Real. Here’s everything you should know about Canine Cancer.

Needs: Environmental, nutritional and lifestyle

Golden retrievers are a naughty, rambunctious, hyper-active lot. They need a ton of exercise and physical activities. Leaving them alone, spells mood swings, destroying your favorite purse as revenge, you name it. They need a human presence at all times, hence the best environment for them is a family.

Their natural habitat was that of open lands, forests; which has now shifted to the urban bustle, hence these dogs need to be taken for long walks, jog, runs and swims – anything that makes them relieve all that energy is a great idea! However, in the first two years of their life, physical activity should be moderated, because their bones and joints are fragile owing to their genetic make-up and can be damaged. Hard wood, tiled or marbled floors should be avoided. Grassy, muddy fields are your baby’s best friend. The soft ground is gentle on their bones.

ALSO READ: A tired dog is a happy one! Simple exercises to keep your dog happy

In conclusion, as a compassionate and empathetic hooman, we should understand that this breed needs ample space, time, love and attention from us. An ideal place to raise such a child would be a home with a garden. They aren’t well suited for someone who isn’t outdoorsy or is lazy!

How to take care of these needs

Golden retrievers could sometimes prove to be a handful, but worry not, we have a few tips for you:

• Exercise: ONE HOUR EVERYDAY! That’s how much they need to walk, at least. Once you have received a clean chit from the vet when they’re 2 years old, only then should you proceed with the rigorous jogging, running, cycling, and swimming. The golden rule always stands true “A tired retriever is a happy retriever”
• Nutrition: Nutrition is as important as exercise. The history of genetic disorders makes it more important to focus on it. Animal based protein in the baby’s formative years are a must. Calcium is important for stronger bones, but overdoing it leads to stones in the kidney and other problems. Fat intake has to be monitored. In totality, a complete and balanced diet is a must.
• Grooming: They shed a lot, twice a year, but of course a little everyday as well. Daily brushing the coat helps them shed less and cleans the dead undercoat. If taken for swimming, immediate washing of the salt, chlorine or lake muck is a must, or else it will lead to skin problems.

Conclusion

Albeit not made for the urban set up, we cannot resist their uber cuteness. You can ensure their longevity by having a grass carpeted area in your house, if you don’t possess a garden. Ensure that proper and ample exercise is given. Stay clear of processed packaged foods, and feed a real, species-appropriate diet to avoid diseases. Above all, love them like there is no tomorrow, and get loved unconditionally as well!

Got a Golden Goodboy (or Goodgirl)? Tell us all about it!