Monday, April 2, 2012

SHIH TZU

 
  Shih Tzu puppies

The Shih Tzu is a small-sized breed of dog originating from China. Shih Tzu literally means Lion Dog in Chinese. They are well known for their loyalty and their silky hair.


Characteristics


The Shih Tzu dog is very energetic and playful dog with defiant attitude. Physically their head is round and wide and wide gap between their big eyes. Short muzzle and good jaw. Short bodies that are longer than the dogs overall height. They have double coat, and long beautiful silky hair. The colors of hair come in different variations but most usual are gold, black, combination of black and white, white, brown. Owners should pay special attention to the hair. Weight from 4.5 kg to 8.1 kg (9.9 pounds to 17.8 pounds), height no more than 26.7 centimeters (10.2 inches). The Shih Tzu are known for the loyalty to their owners and follow their owners wherever they go. As other small sized dog breeds, Shih Tzu`s have some medical problems mainly regarding breathing and thyroid malfunctions. Their usual life time is around 13 years.

History


The Shih Tzu belong to the so-called ancient dog types. 700 A.D. dogs of this breed were called Lion Dogs. They were highly valued among nobles especially the ones with golden hair. According to some sources even Buddha had couple of these dogs. This breed first came to Europe in early 19th century. First recorded dogs of this type in USA were around 1930. The Shih Tzu is a recognized breed by the most relevant Kennel Clubs.

                   

Monday, February 20, 2012

BULLDOG




The Bulldog is a medium-sized breed of dog. They are also known as English Bulldogs because there are several other types of Bulldogs that came later than the original English Bulldog like American Bulldog, French Bulldog etc.

Characteristics


Bulldogs are very determined, energetic and strong dogs. They have specific appearance. Massive head with strong skull and jaws, eyes are very wide placed. Bulldogs have relatively short, thick and very strong neck. They have short and very compact bodies. Chest is very strong and wide. Front legs are stronger than back legs. Bulldogs are walking a little bit hard and they look like they are walking fast on the tip of their legs. They have short and flat hair. Their color is white, brindle, piebald, red or fawn. Their weight is 22  - 25 kg (48.5 - 55.1 lbs) and their height is around 31 - 40 cm ( 12 - 16 inches). Their life span is from 8 to 12 years. They are known to have problems with their hips, so the owners should be very careful with their Bulldogs health and condition. They are also very sensitive to heat, so long walks on sun should be accompanied with pauses on shady places.

History


The term "Bulldog" is known from early 16th century. The breed was used in the game Bull baiting, very popular game back in the middle ages. But the sport was eventually banned because of its brutality and the dog breed Bulldog became just a home pet. Today's Bulldog has mixed with the pug back in the 19th century and is slightly different from the medieval Bulldog. Its unique appearance is a motive for various mascots. 39 American universities use Bulldog as their mascot.