Category: Pets

What counts as beautiful differs from person to person, especially when it comes to dogs. Some people prefer small, long-haired dogs, while others prefer shepherds and dogs like the Siberian Husky. In this article, we’ll take a look at some of the breeds generally considered to be the most beautiful.

 

Top 10 Most Beautiful Dog Breeds

1. Golden Retriever

The Golden Retriever is one of the most popular dog breeds in the United States. They were bred to retrieve birds undamaged. This led to the development of a soft mouth, which basically means that the dog doesn’t bite down hard. They also have an instinctive love of water – a requirement for the work they were bred for.

This breed is most suited for suburban or country living, as they require quite a bit of exercise. They are quite intelligent and train easily, making them suitable dogs for first-time owners. The typical Golden Retriever is calm and very eager to please. They will do practically anything you say and respond readily to commands.

These dogs are quite healthy and typically live up to 15 years. However, they are susceptible to certain problems, including cancer and hip dysplasia.

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2. Siberian Husky

Many consider Siberian Huskies to be some of the most beautiful dogs out there. Their bright blue eyes and fluffy coat easily put them on the top of most lists. They have a double-coat with erect ears and very distinctive markings.

However, this often leads many people to adopt them for their looks alone. We do not recommend this dog for first-time owners, though. They are extremely active and require quite a bit of exercise. They also have a tendency to be quite stubborn. They are not very trainable, though they are intelligent. Instead, they tend to ignore commands when they are given and do their own thing. Their intelligence can also get them in trouble. They will figure out how to open cabinets and even doors. They are often intelligent exactly when you don’t want them to be.

However, they are great personality dogs. Many people absolutely love their personalities, but they can be a bit difficult to take care of.

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3. Labrador Retrievers

As the most popular dog in the United States, the Labrador Retriever is loved by very many people. They aren’t exactly very exotic-looking dogs, but they are very balanced. These dogs are known to be outgoing and kind. They are friendly with just about everyone and intelligent enough to be used in many different working environments.

They are an even-tempered breed that makes a good family dog. They are often considered to get along well with children and even other animals. They don’t have an incredibly high prey drive, which makes them suitable for homes with other pets, like cats. Because they are working dogs, they do need quite a bit of exercise. They do best in active families.

This breed usually lives over 12 years, though many dog breeds live longer. They usually start greying around the muzzle around the age of 8. They are prone to some health problems but are typically pretty healthy dogs.

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4. German Shepherd

The German Shepherds are a breed of working dog from Germany. While this dog does look very similar to a wolf, it is actually a very modern breed of dog that only dates back to 1899. As their name suggests, they were originally used for sheep herding. However, they are currently used for a variety of jobs due to their high intelligence and trainability.

They are a moderately active breed that does require some daily exercise. However, they are not as energetic as some of the other large, working dogs. They are very trainable and tend to bond closely with their people. If they aren’t properly socialized, they can be overprotective of their family and aggressive. They are not inclined to be friendly towards everyone, so socialization is necessary.

This dog is generally healthy, though some in the show strain are starting to develop back problems. This is a bit of controversy and has led to a re-writing of the breed standard to avoid strange back forms.

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5. Samoyed

The white, fluffy dog is absolutely adorable. They are herding dogs used by the Samoyedic people to herd reindeer. They are friendly and love just about everyone, which makes them suitable family dogs. They are constantly alert and look quite happy. Some people even describe them as smiling. They do have a tendency to bark, so some people utilize them as alert dogs. However, they do not make good guard dogs due to their friendly nature.

These dogs remain playful throughout much of their life and are quite active. They enjoy just about any activity that involves running around with their family.

They are somewhat prone to specific diseases. For instance, a rare kidney disorder runs in their bloodline. This disease is most severe in male dogs. Females may develop symptoms but usually do not experience kidney failure like males.

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6. Australian Shepherd

The Australian Shepherd was actually developed in California – not Australia. This herding dog was originally used throughout the western United States but has become one of the most popular companion dogs.

This canine is typically known for being intelligent and active. They require a lot of exercise. They are not suitable for families that are not active. We wouldn’t recommend them for first-time owners, as they require quite a bit of training and activity. They can become destructive if they do not have enough exercise or mental stimulation—plan on spending plenty of time with this dog.

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7. Poodle

Poodles are the stereotypical pretty dog. Their curly fur and unique appearance make them very popular. However, they are a working dog and require quite a bit of exercise. They can be extremely active and require hours of exercise each day. They love water, as they were bred to be water retrieval dogs.

They are an extremely intelligent breed. This makes them easy to train. However, they also need a fair amount of mental stimulation to stay happy and healthy. Otherwise, they will get bored and can often become a bit destructive. They are a bit reserved with strangers and aren’t quite as friendly as other dogs. They are not typically aggressive, though.

The Standard Poodle is very good with children. Their large size prevents them from getting hurt at the mishandling of young children. However, they are very gentle and love to romp around. They make great family dogs as long as the environment is stable and relaxed. Miniature and toy varieties tend to become scared of children more easily, which can cause fear aggression.

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8. Saluki

The Saluki is an exotic-looking sighthound that was once used around the fertile crescent to hunt game animals. This is a very old breed, though it has likely changed over the centuries. This dog is a landrace, which means they developed naturally, not through selective breeding.

This breed has preserved many of its original hound traits. It is reserved with strangers and very independent. While it does like the company of people, it doesn’t need people like some other breeds. They are fine being left alone as long as their needs are met. They get bored easily due to their intelligence and need for stimulation. This can be in the form of training, games, or puzzle toys. They are calm and quiet, making them good apartment dogs if necessary.

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9. Irish Setter

The Irish Setter comes in very rich, beautiful colors, which is why we decided to include it on this list. Their moderately long coat comes in chestnut or red. It does require regular brushing to keep it mat-free. Their coat feathers along the tail, chest, and ears.

These dogs get along with just about everyone. They can get along with smaller animals as long as they are introduced from a young age. Otherwise, they may see them as prey animals. This dog is extremely affectionate with their family and strangers alike. They are an active breed, so they require regular walks. They are trainable but can have selective hearing when they are paying attention to something else – like a wild animal or another dog.

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10. Weimaraner

This large breed was originally developed for hunting. They were used for hunting large game at first but have also been utilized for smaller animals such as rabbits and foxes.

These dogs look extremely athletic and come in both long- and short-haired varieties. Their soft, grey coat gives them a unique, stunning appearance. Occasionally, their tail is docked to about 6 inches. While this was necessary for hunting dogs to prevent injuries, it is not necessary for companion animals and is illegal in many countries.

This dog is extremely energetic. They have a high prey drive, which makes them unsuitable for homes with smaller animals. Some can be socialized to accept cats, but there are many reports of Weimaraners killing cats they have known for years. They will likely chase just about anything. They do require regular exercise and love to play games. For this reason, they do best with an active family.

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Featured Image: Nik Tsvetkov, Shutterstock

It’s not every day that you get bit by a dog, but these things do happen from time to time, and many people worry about which breeds are the most dangerous. According to the Center for Disease Control (CDC), more than 4 million people are bitten by dogs in the United States every year, and roughly 800,000 of those victims will seek medical attention¹.

Reliable dog bite statistics are hard to come by, mainly because very few institutions are tracking these incidents and categorizing them by breed. Therefore, we looked at a broad range of sources that gauge the likelihood of a dog breed to bite.

Before we dive into our list of some of the breeds that are most likely to bite a human, we want to state that most dogs do not tend to be aggressive and fatal bites are extremely rare. Keep in mind that, more often than not, a dog’s aggression is a reflection of their training, treatment, or fear rather than their personalities. Still, having this information is helpful and could keep you safe if you ever encounter a dog that makes you feel uncomfortable or in danger.

The 10 Dog Breeds Most Likely to Bite Humans Are:

1. Rottweiler

Rottweilers are large, strong dogs who were bred to be cattle dogs. Over the years, their powerful jaws and protective instincts have made them one of the dogs that are most likely to bite a human. However, other studies show that, while they are more likely to bite, that doesn’t necessarily mean that they are the most aggressive. In general, Rottweilers are well-behaved and social with the proper training.

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2. Chihuahua

Believe it or not, Chihuahuas are actually some of the most aggressive dog breeds. People often overlook a bite from a Chihuahua because their small size causes minimal damage compared to larger breeds. How do you think that they got the nickname “ankle biter” if they didn’t have a bad habit of biting people?

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3. Cocker Spaniel

The last dog that anyone would expect to be a biter is a Cocker Spaniel. People are so quick to assume that Pit Bulls are aggressive and bite the most people, but they somehow overlook other breeds just because they’re popular family and working dogs. Cocker Spaniels may be cute, but they get easily upset and won’t hesitate to bite or attack if they feel genuinely threatened.

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4. Tosa Inu

The Tosa Inu is a giant breed that has been banned in countries like Malaysia, New Zealand, and the U.K. Trust us, these bans don’t just happen for any reason. While most of these dogs are friendly, many people fear them because they are so large and strong and their bites are incredibly painful.

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5. German Shepherd

Is it any surprise that the German Shepherd made the list? You watch these powerful dogs take down dangerous criminals and protect their families at all costs. These dogs were bred to be guard dogs, and they aren’t afraid to bite someone to defend themselves or their families. Proper training is crucial for these animals because they could mistake any stranger on the street as a threat.

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6. Terriers

Terriers have been used historically for hunting rodents and other small vermin, but they also have notoriously feisty temperaments. Their primal instinct is to bite their prey, and sometimes that same instinct can take over with humans. Children are the most likely to get bit by these dogs because they have a short fuse and antagonizing them could set them off.

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7. Pit Bulls (and Other Similar Breeds)

Let us start by saying that there is a lot of misinformation out there about Pit Bulls and how likely they are to bite. This breed has a major stigma against them, and it’s all because of how the media has portrayed them. Many controlled studies have shown that true Pit Bulls do not tend to be dangerous dogs. With that said, the statistics available are wildly inaccurate because other breeds that closely resemble the Pit Bull all get lumped into a single category. Even if an entirely different breed, such as a Staffordshire Terrier, were to bite a human, it would most likely get reported as a Pit Bull attack. Again, it is Pit Bull-type dogs that are involved in attacks and not actually Pit Bulls themselves.

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8. Bullmastiff

This is another big, muscular dog that can go from charming and well-behaved one minute to growling and biting the next. Dog bites from this breed can get nasty fairly quickly. Plus, their tremendous weight can cause even more damage.

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9. Siberian Husky

Siberian Huskies are energetic and loving, but their temperament is wildly unpredictable. They have even been known to maul people instead of just biting them. Even worse, many of their attacks are against children. It is important to supervise kids when interacting with any dog breed, though; not just Siberian Huskies.

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10. Jack Russell

What is it about small dogs and their aggression? The Jack Russell is another breed that was bred to hunt rodents and vermin. Even though their genetics tell them to attack small prey, there are times when larger animals and humans could be their target. These dogs have a lot of energy. Without proper training, they are more likely to act out and could potentially bite humans.

Other Statistics About Dog Bites

Conclusion

There really isn’t any reason to fear dogs just because of the breed that they are. If a dog is going to attack you, there are many underlying factors for that behavior, most of which have nothing to actually do with the breed itself. If you ever feel you are in danger of getting bit, try to remain calm and separate yourself if possible.

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Featured Image Credit: Jaromir Chalabala, Shutterstock

Wireless fences use a transmitter on the dog’s collar to establish an invisible barrier. When the dog crosses the barrier, the collar beeps, vibrates, or emits a mild shock. Wireless fences have been available for several years, but until recently, only a few companies produced them.

Now, you have several choices, and we’ll discuss the 10 best wireless dog fences to help you determine which model is best for your home. After our reviews, we have a helpful buyer’s guide with additional tips.

A Quick Comparison of Our Favorites

The 10 Best Wireless Dog Fences

1. PetSafe Stay & Play Compact Wireless Dog Fence – Best Overall

PetSafe is one of the leading producers of wireless fences, and its Stay & Play Compact Dog & Cat Fence is our pick for the best overall wireless dog fence. Whether you have a large, unsecured yard or like camping with your pup, you can take the PetSafe wherever you go.

It covers ¾ of an acre, and unlike other models, it doesn’t correct the dog when they return to the safe zone. The fence includes an indoor transmitter, boundary flags, and a collar. If you get a new cat or dog, you can order additional collars that work with the same system.

Customers were happy with the PetSafe fence’s performance, but some were disappointed that their cars interfered with the signal.

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2. Petdiary GPS Wireless Fence System Dog Tracker – Best Value

Coverage area:	999 yards
Correction type:	Tone, vibration, shock
Waterproof:	Yes

The Petdiary GPS Wireless Fence System Dog Tracker uses satellite technology to track your best friend. It doesn’t require an app or transmitter to operate, and it only takes around 30 minutes to set up. The system includes a GPS collar, contact points, boundary flags, and a training guide.

You can adjust the coverage from 33 to 999 yards, and the automatic memory function keeps you from repeatedly recalibrating the collar. It has one of the easiest set modes of the models we reviewed, but you cannot use it in spaces with less than 33 yards. Some users mentioned that the battery loses its charge in under 36 hours. However, we think the Petdiary GPS is the best wireless fence for the money.

Pros

• No transmitter required
• Reliable GPS signal
• Contact points gentle on sensitive skin
• Automatic memory

Cons

• Battery only lasts for 36 hours
• Complaints of batteries dying faster

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3. Halo Wireless Dog Fence, GPS Tracker & Activity Monitor Dog Training Collar – Premium Choice

Coverage area:	1,166.67 yards
Correction type:	Tone, vibration
Waterproof:	Yes

For the ultimate GPS virtual fence and dog-training system, we recommend the Halo Collar Wireless Dog Fence GPS Tracker. After installing the Halo app, you can create up to 20 virtual fences to protect your dog. Then, you can follow the training instructions designed by Cesar Milan to teach your dog how to stay within the boundaries. Some customers mentioned that it takes a while for dogs to learn the system, but they didn’t have any problems after the training.

Although the Halo Collar is more expensive than other models we reviewed, it includes more features, such as the app’s tracking feature. You can track how many miles your dog walked and how long they rested.

Most dog owners were impressed by the Halo Collar, but some didn’t like paying the monthly service charge.

Pros

• Creates up to 20 invisible fences
• Provides real-time GPS location of dog
• Training instructions by Cesar Milan
• Halo app tracks training progress

Cons

• Not designed for small dogs
• Requires a monthly service plan

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4. GroovyPets GPS Wireless Fence System & Dog Training Collar – Best for Puppies

Coverage area:	300 yards
Correction type:	Tone, vibration, shock
Waterproof:	Yes

Unlike many wireless systems, the GroovyPets GPS Wireless Fence Containment System is suitable for small breeds. The collar fits neck sizes from 6 to 24 inches, and you can activate it with the remote control. The system has nine levels of tone and vibration corrections and 30 levels of safe shock corrections.

The collar is designed to function for 36 hours when the virtual fence is activated, and it’s compatible with other GPS collars. It’s more affordable than most models, but it has a few flaws. The coverage range isn’t as vast as other models, and several customers had issues with the GPS signal.

Pros

• Affordable
• Automatic memory
• Suitable for small breeds

Cons

• Small area of coverage
• Collar sometimes loses signal

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5. Focuser Electric Wireless Dog Fence System

Coverage area:	328.08 yards
Correction type:	Tone, vibration, shock
Waterproof:	Yes

The Focuser Electric Wireless Dog Fence System uses a transmitter instead of GPS to create a virtual fence on your property. The system includes a collar receiver, USB cable and charger, 20 training flags, contact points, a transmitter, and a test light. The collar contains a safety chip that prevents you from harming your pup in shock mode and a backup battery for power outages.

Although the Focuser system is designed for dogs of all sizes, it only has four shock levels. We didn’t see any customer comments mentioning the shocks were too intense for small pups, but it’s unclear how only four shock levels suit all breeds. If you have a toy breed, we suggest using only the vibration correction.

Pros

• Safety chip prevents over-correcting
• 16 training levels
• Sound warning after one cycle

Cons

• Only 4 shock levels
• Unsuitable for dogs under 10 lbs

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6. Htcuto Wireless Dog Fence for 2 Dogs

Coverage area:	1,100 yards
Correction type:	Tone, vibration, shock
Waterproof:	Yes

If you have two dogs and need a wireless fence, check out the Htcuto Wireless Dog Fence for 2 Dogs. It’s ideal if you have a farm or large property because of the collar’s 1,100-yard range, and it’s suitable for dogs of all sizes. It has 30 levels of shock corrections, which is much more than the competition. It also has nine vibration levels and five levels of tones.

The metal contact points on wireless collars can irritate some dogs with light coats, but the Htcuto system comes with silicone tips to protect your dog’s skin. It’s an affordable system for two dogs, but several customers complained that it didn’t perform consistently. Sometimes, it randomly beeps and confuses the dog.

Pros

• 30 shock levels
• 85-hour battery life
• Silicone tips for contacts

Cons

• Must keep transmitter outside
• Inconsistent performance
• Beeps randomly

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7. WIEZ GPS Wireless Dog Fence, Electric Dog Fence

Coverage area:	776 acres
Correction type:	Tone, vibration, shock
Waterproof:	Yes

The WIEZ GPS Wireless Dog Fence does not require a transmitter and relies on 12 satellites to improve its GPS accuracy. It’s an affordable product that protects two dogs, and it has a pretty impressive range. However, if you have a small property, you’ll need to find another product. The WEIZ collar cannot create a virtual fence that’s under 98 feet.

Most users didn’t have many issues with the collar’s performance, but some said the collar isn’t very durable and only lasts a few months. The biggest flaw with the WIEZ is the safety feature that is supposed to prevent injuries.

The collar cannot be disabled unless it goes through three cycles, and your dog will experience several seconds of vibrations and shocks if you aren’t around to turn it off.

Pros

• 2-year warranty
• GPS uses 12 satellites
• Affordable for 2 dogs

Cons

• Not designed for small yards
• Safety feature requires 3 cycles
• Not durable

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8. BHCEY GPS Wireless Electric Dog Fence

Coverage area:	776 acres
Correction type:	Tone, vibration, shock
Waterproof:	Yes

The BHCEY GPS Wireless Dog Fence has an impressive range of 776 acres and doesn’t take long to set up. It includes a GPS collar, test bulb, charger, and plastic probes. It’s designed for dogs of all sizes, but it’s a little too large for toy breeds. It uses GPS satellites to establish the virtual fence, but it’s not as accurate or dependable as the competition.

Some customers gave up on the BHCEY and purchased other brands because of the signal problems. The GPS takes a while to work, and sometimes, it beeps randomly. Like our last pick, it takes three cycles of vibrations and shocks before the safety feature kicks in.

Pros

• Easy to set up
• Fits most breeds

Cons

• Satellite connection problems
• Too large for toy breeds
• Beeps randomly
• Safety feature require 3 cycles

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9. ABHY Wireless Dog Fence System

Coverage area:	330 yards
Correction type:	Tone, vibration, shock
Waterproof:	Yes

The ABHY Wireless Dog Fence System is another affordable product for two dogs, but it uses a transmitter rather than GPS. It’s designed to fit medium-sized and large dogs, and it has a 330-yard range. The collar has reflective strips to make your pup more visible in low light, and the battery can operate for several weeks without a charge.

Unfortunately, the ABHY collar only has three levels of tone, vibration, and shock corrections. It’s not designed for small dogs, but with only three shock levels, it might be too intense for medium-sized dogs. It has a decent range, but it doesn’t function in small spaces under 100 feet long. Unlike most wireless systems, the ABHY doesn’t include boundary flags.

Pros

• Receiver charges in 2 hours
• Reflector strips on collar

Cons

• Only 3 levels for each correction
• Doesn’t work in small yards
• Doesn’t include boundary flags

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10. COVONO GPS Wireless Dog Fence

Coverage area:	1,083 yards
Correction type:	Tone, vibration, shock
Waterproof:	Yes

The COVONO GPS Wireless Dog Fence is an inexpensive system with a 1,083-yard range. The company claims to have improved its software to prevent false warnings and GPS signal problems. The 1500 mAh battery stays charged for 48 hours, and the collar stores the last central point in its memory.

It’s only designed for dogs over 20 lbs, and some customers mentioned that they liked the slimmer design of the COVONO compared to other collars. However, it only has three shock levels, and the signal problems still occur, even with the software update. The most significant problem is that it can randomly shock your dog when it malfunctions.

Pros

• 1,083-yard range
• Affordable

Cons

• Only for dogs over 20 lbs
• Inconsistent performance
• Only 3 levels of shock correction
• Complaints of random shocks

Buyer’s Guide

Pet parents who want to keep their dog in their yard without installing a 6-foot-tall fence will usually start looking into wireless fences and e-collars. The fences have multiple setup options, and most models are simple to operate.

What’s best for you will be determined by your family’s exact needs. Here are some things to consider when purchasing a wireless dog fence.

Setup Options

The first feature to consider is the setup style. The wireless fences we discussed use either a GPS system or a transmitter. Both types have advantages and disadvantages.

GPS Collars

GPS collars don’t require a transmitter to function, and some models can be used without Wi-Fi. They’re ideal if you travel frequently with your dog and can be set up in under an hour.

Because they don’t require much equipment, GPS collars meet HOA requirements, and you can use them whether you rent or own your property. One of the most significant advantages is that most function without electricity. Even the high-end models controlled by apps will work if you’ve already configured the virtual fence on a device.

The GPS collars at the top of our list are reliable products that rarely have signal issues or design flaws. However, the inexpensive models are more unreliable, and some users have to wait several minutes to get a signal from the satellite.

Wireless Transmitter

A wireless home base setup uses a transmitter that sends signals to a receiver on your dog’s collar. When your dog gets too far away from the home base the receiver will emit a noise, administer a shock, or vibrate to let the dog know that they need to move closer to the home base.

The area covered by a wireless home base setup is an exact circle centered on the transmitter. Pet parents with large or atypically shaped yards may find that a home base unit does not cover their entire yard and does not allow their dog to access the whole yard.

Those with small yards may find that their dog is allowed to roam in their neighbor’s yard, which is covered by the circular radius. Some transmitters are battery-powered, but the models that use your home’s electricity will not function during a power outage. However, the wireless fences that use transmitters don’t experience the same signal problems as GPS products.

How to Decide Which Fence Is Right for You

When deciding what fence to buy there are several factors to consider. The biggest factor is the size and shape of your yard. If your yard is unusually shaped or tiny, a wireless home base station may include areas of your neighbor’s yards as part of the Safe Zone. If your yard is too large you may need multiple wireless home bases to cover the entire area of your yard.

Another factor that you’ll want to consider when buying a fence is the receiver’s correction method. There are three types of corrective methods: tone, vibration, and shock. A tone correction collar will emit a loud noise when the dog comes near the barrier zone.

A vibration collar will vibrate when the dog leaves the zone and won’t stop until the dog returns to the safe zone. A shock collar will administer a harmless electrical shock to the dog when they cross the barrier line.

Not all dogs respond the same to each type of correction. Some professional trainers recommend that you buy a fence that has all three options in case your dog doesn’t react appropriately to the first chosen correction method.

Ethical Concerns When Using a Shock Collar

Dog owners rightfully have concerns about the use of shock collars with their dogs. Proponents of shock collars state that no harm will come to the dog as long as they’re used appropriately, and dogs have been harmed by improper use of shock collars leaving pet parents feeling nervous about employing the corrective method.

The US Human Society firmly states that you should never use shock collars, and most animal advocates consider them inhumane. There is no evidence that shock collars are more effective than any other humane training method, and many research observations show that shock collars are less effective.

If you plan to use the shock correction on your dog, use a collar that has several levels of intensity; you’ll be less likely to harm or frighten your dog.

Conclusion

We examined several excellent wireless dog fences, but our top pick is the PetSafe Stay & Play Compact Wireless Dog & Cat Fence. Unlike most wireless fences, you can use the PetSafe collar if you have a small yard.

It’s also more reliable than other wireless brands and is one of the most revered by dog owners. If you’re on a tight budget but want a quality collar, we recommend the Petdiary GPS Wireless Fence System Dog Tracker. It only takes a few minutes to set up, and you don’t have to wait long for a GPS signal.

And finally, if you’re looking for a system with tech-savvy premium features, the Halo Collar Wireless Dog Fence GPS Tracker & Activity Monitor, which allows for customizable fences and a handy tracking app.

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Featured Image Credit: EMpro, Shutterstock

Do you need a short-haired dog to save you time and money on grooming? In our list of short-haired dog breeds, you can find any size of dog, from the large Great Dane all the way down to the tiny Chihuahua. Short-haired dogs don’t need to be brushed as often, but be warned that they do still shed, and not all of these dogs are hypoallergenic. With that in mind, let’s take a closer look at each of our picks for short-haired dog breeds:

Top 20 Short-Haired Dog Breeds

1. Weimaraner

This German hunting dog comes from the Weimar region in its native country. Weimaraners are athletic and require lots of exercise. Their coats are short and they come in a variety of grey shades. Weimaraners can be perfect family dogs and can even be good with children, so long as you run their energy out adequately.

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2. Great Dane

Great Danes, although easy with coat maintenance, will be more work in feeding and finding space for them. Even though they are huge, they have a calm nature and don’t need to let off tons of energy like other large dogs. If you give them a short walk or two a day, they will get all the exercise they need. Train them early on and they will be a lovable, lounging pup for you and your family.

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3. Pug

The Pug is a cute little pup that comes from China. Pugs were a sought-after pet back in B.C. times as they were the choice pets of Chinese emperors. They love to be right by your side and make you laugh with their antics. Their hair is short, true, but they will need their wrinkles cleaned out with a wet wipe or cloth every week or so. Pugs also have a hard time in hot weather, so make sure to keep him cooled off.

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4. Italian Greyhound

Italian Greyhounds are very similar to their ancestor, the Greyhound, in these ways: their coats are short, they are sweet and calm, and they don’t need tons of exercise. They make a perfect dog for people who can’t handle the large-sized Greyhound but still want the same good nature. Speaking of its small size, you will need to be careful with it while carrying it around with you because of its vulnerability to injury.

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5. Miniature Pinscher

Miniature Pinschers (Min Pins, for short) are similar to Doberman Pinschers, but Min Pins are actually the older breed. Min Pins have a short coat that needs brushing once a week to make it look sleek and shiny. This dog breed has lots of pride and confidence, and is considered the “King of Toys.” Miniature Pinschers are great for a family with older children that know how to handle small dogs.

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6. Labrador

The most popular dog breed in America for 28 years in a row has also got a short coat that’s easy to care for. Labradors love the water, so you won’t have a difficult time bathing them, either. Their personalities are affectionate, caring, and playful. Labs are very easy to train, which is why they are often used as service animals. Labs are great for people of all ages.

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7. Rottweiler

Rottweilers have a reputation to guard and protect, and they are fiercely loyal to their families. Long ago in Germany, they were bred to drive cattle and pull carts of meat for butchers. This independent breed needs some good training early on to be manageable. You will likely win over any Rottie with a treat in the form of food, which is a good way to train them, too.

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8. Dalmatian

Dalmatians are known as fire station dogs for a reason. Before there were fire engines, Dalmatians were used to walk beside the horses drawing the carriage in order to calm them down. This breed is known for its high energy and requires lots of daily exercise to stay happy. Because of this, they might not be the best breed for apartment-dwellers or older folks.

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9. Vizsla

With characteristics of a pointer and retriever, the Vizsla has striking similarities to the Weimaraner dog, besides it’s brown coat. Vizsla dogs are smaller and don’t require quite as much exercise, though they are quite agile and can run for a long time if they need to. They are graceful dogs with a beautiful coat that does not require much work to maintain.

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10. Chihuahua

Chihuahuas come in long or short coat varieties that can be many colors. Don’t let its size fool you, these tiny dogs surprisingly carry a lot of energy and a big dog personality. However, if you’re wanting to take fewer trips to the groomer and be able to carry your dog practically anywhere, a short-haired Chihuahua will be a perfect fit for you.

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11. Boston Terrier

Boston Terriers got the name “American Gentlemen” because of their tuxedo-like short coat that’s easy to care for. These dogs are full of character, keeping families playing and laughing for years. They have a good amount of energy that should be worked out with enough daily play time.

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12. Mastiff

Though not as tall as Great Danes, Mastiffs rival them in weight and sheer mass. These dogs are protective but not aggressive, and they are quite loving towards their human family. They are fairly low-energy dogs that only need a few short walks a day to maintain their weight. Even though their coat is short, Mastiffs tend to shed a lot, and their excessive drooling combined with this makes them a bad dog for people with allergies.

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13. German Shorthaired Pointer

German Shorthairs are bird dogs through and through. Their high-energy needs require them to have lots of entertainment and running around outside, which could be perfect for a family with kids on a ranch or a farm. The best part is that their coats only need one brushing a week, and sometimes a bath when they (likely) swim in muddy waters.

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14. Dachshund

The Dachshund, like the Chihuahua, can be bred with varying coat types, including long-haired, short-haired, and wire-haired. As long as you get a short-haired breed, the coat maintenance will be minimal. Dachshunds (also called Doxies) commonly have skin problems, so they might need to be bathed more often than you’d think. Despite this, Doxies make great little watchdogs and will give you lots of love as long as you pay it forward with your attention.

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15. Boxer

Boxers hail from Germany, dating back to the 1800s. Despite its fighter-style name, it’s quite friendly and cheerful. Boxers not only make great friends with their human family but also pet family members. Make sure you have enough time to give these pups the exercise they need, as they have pretty high energy levels.

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16. Rhodesian Ridgeback

This dog gets its name from a strip of hair on their backs that grows in the opposite direction, causing a “ridge” in its back. The Rhodesian Ridgeback was originally bred in South Africa to hunt lions in the wild. This dog is much more suitable for an active individual or couple, as Ridgebacks need lots of time for running around outside and are strong-willed with strict training necessary.

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17. Whippet

Whippets have been called the “poor man’s Greyhound,” and were used in the late 18th century and early 19th century as rabbit chasers and race dogs. They are a crossbreed between Italian Greyhounds and Greyhounds. This combination creates a gentle dog with low energy needs. Whippets would make a great apartment dog.

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18. Beagle

Beagles are small/medium-sized scent hounds with a happy disposition and a moderate amount of energy. Their coats are water-resistant, which also means that they won’t get dusty too easily. Though they shed a moderate amount, brushing them regularly will keep their coats looking great. Beagles make great family dogs, just be aware that they could get stubborn on you.

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19. French Bulldog

French Bulldogs, or Frenchies, are big-eared and joyful dogs. They are small dogs, but they are not dainty or fragile. It’s difficult to not smile when you see one. Frenchies are companion dogs, as they keep the mood around them light and happy. These dogs are playful, but they don’t need more than a short walk a day.

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20. Jack Russell Terrier

The Jack Russell Terrier is a charming dog breed that once graced the TV as Wishbone in the mid ’90s. You would think that because of its acting reputation, that Jack Russell’s would be easy to train, but this is not the case. It’s best to get a Jack Russell with some dog-owning experience already under your belt. Regardless, these dogs are low maintenance when it comes to grooming, but need a lot of exercise and play time.

Final Thoughts

Dogs with shorter hair have fewer grooming needs than long-haired dogs, which makes them desirable for a certain population of wannabe dog owners. Be warned, though, this does not mean that they shed less and never need brushing! A good comb-through will keep your pup’s hair from getting everywhere and will give you a chance to examine their skin for problems like bumps, skin lesions, and parasites.

See Also:

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Featured Image Credit: danielle828, Pixabay

Unlike humans, most animals don’t appear to savor their food by eating it slowly. Some dogs just fill their bellies as fast as possible, whether they’re very hungry or not. Their instinct is stronger than their appreciation for flavors and textures, even if there is no threat of losing their meal to another animal.

In most cases, there is nothing to worry about if your dog doesn’t chew their food; it simply means that you’ve got a guzzler on your hands. However, in some cases, it could lead to digestive problems or be an indication of a medical condition. Thankfully, there are ways to slow your dog’s eating down and improve their digestion.

Why Doesn’t My Dog Chew His Food?

Although some dogs do chew their food, many don’t. This behavior is instinctual and goes right back to when dogs lived in packs in the wild. Any food that was scavenged would need to be eaten fast before it was eaten by another dog, drew too much attention from other wild animals, or became the reason for a fight to break out. The faster a dog ate their portion of the food and moved on, the safer they were from losing out on a meal or getting hurt.

This behavior could begin early in puppies that were born in large litters, with puppies needing to fight for a nipple on their mother’s body to nurse if there were more puppies than nipples. As the puppies develop and start solids, they may continue to fight for a spot at the bowl with so many little mouths gulping down the food laid down for them.

With this in mind, your dog might be eating without chewing because of their environment. If there is a lot of noise around them, such as machinery, loud music, or screaming children, they may feel as though they are under threat and swallow their food down quickly. If you have several other dogs or pets, they may also try to gulp down their food quickly in fear of those pets getting to their food before they finish it.

A dog is built to eat food quickly as it was a way of survival in their past. If your dog has always been a fast eater and you regularly take them for their veterinary checkups, you probably don’t have anything to worry about.

When Should I Be Worried?

If your dog has always chewed their food but they have suddenly stopped, it might be an indication that something is wrong with them. However, not chewing their food will often be one of a few other signs.

Dental Disease

Dogs that have suddenly stopped chewing their food, whether soft or hard, and also have bad breath, tartar on their teeth, and other signs of dental disease might have started swallowing their food whole because their mouths are too painful to chew the food.

Injury

Another reason could be due to a cut in your dog’s mouth from chewing on something sharp, such as a stone or bone. Tooth fractures are also common from chewing such items.  It’s important to take them to the vet for an oral examination to determine what the problem is and to get it treated to reduce the pain or discomfort that your dog is experiencing.

Cancer

Cancers in the mouth can also make it difficult for dogs to chew and swallow. This generally occurs in older animals and you might also notice signs of weight loss, vomiting or discomfort around the mouth.

Parasites

It’s not uncommon for dogs to get internal parasites, such as roundworms. These parasites live and feed in your dog’s intestines, eating away at the nutrients your dog gets from their food. As this happens, your dog loses out on those necessary nutrients and will gulp down their food in a desperate attempt to fill their stomachs. However, they won’t put on weight even if they are given more food than usual.

Poor Quality Diet

Just as dogs crave more and more food as the parasites steal the nutrients from their bodies, so is the case with diets that don’t have everything your dog needs. A nutrient-deficient diet won’t satisfy your dog and will cause them to always feel hungry, resulting in a dog that gulps down their food instead of chewing it.

The Problem with Gulping Down Whole Food

Some dogs can gulp down whole food and be fine. However, this way of eating can have a negative impact on some dogs and can cause them to have an upset stomach because the food isn’t able to digest well. This may result in your dog throwing up the food they just gulped down. However, for others, it has the potential to cause bloat, which can lead to gastric dilatation and volvulus, or GDV; a condition where the stomach twists and the dog needs life-saving surgery to survive.

Bloat is more common in larger breeds, and although the cause isn’t known, there is a higher chance of it occurring in dogs that ingest a lot of food and or water very quickly. There are other factors that can also increase the risk in dogs, such as their age, weight, etc.

Bloat occurs when a dog’s stomach stretches because of the large amount of food or gas that they ingested from eating or drinking too quickly. It causes pain in the dog’s stomach. If the stomach twists, it cuts off blood flow, which can cause damage to the stomach wall. Dogs with GDV go into shock because there is not enough blood reaching the heart.  It can progress as far as damage to the spleen and other vital organs from being in shock. GDV quickly can be fatal if not recognized and treated.

Along with the abdominal pain, a dog with bloat may also dry heave, pace around the home, guard their stomach, pant, drool, have pale gums, and have a noticeably larger stomach and racing heartbeat. If treated quickly, dogs can recover within a few days.

Ways to Encourage Chewing

If your dog looks like they’re always hungry and in a hurry to get all their food down, or they’ve suddenly stopped chewing, the best thing you can do is take them to the vet for a physical and oral examination.

The vet will be able to treat your dog if they have parasites and recommend dog food with quality ingredients that are beneficial to your dog. If there is something preventing your dog from being able to chew their food, your vet will be able to pinpoint the problem and give them the correct care they need to ease their pain and discomfort.

If your dog is naturally a fast eater, be sure not to leave out large amounts of food as you want to prevent them from overeating. You could also feed them less food more frequently. Also, avoid vigorous exercise right after a meal. These steps will reduce your dog’s risk of developing bloat.

You can slow your dog’s eating down by placing balls and other objects that are too large to swallow in your dog’s bowl so that they have to try to get the kibble under or next to the objects, making it difficult to gobble up all their food in just a few licks. You can also purchase a slow-feeding bowl, snuffle mat or puzzle feeder that does the same thing. You can also place dog food in a dispensing toy so that as your dog plays with the toy, they can gobble up the kibble that falls out.

Some types of kibble are larger than others so buying a larger size biscuit may force your dog to chew more. Remember when changing your dog’s diet, it is best to do so gradually to prevent an upset stomach.

If your dog is eating their food quickly because they feel stressed out from loud noises or pets that are trying to steal their food, feed them in a separate room that is quieter and closed off to other pets.

Conclusion

Any changes in your dog’s eating habits should be investigated, but if they have been given a clean bill of health by your veterinarian, simply use techniques to slow your dog’s eating, feed smaller amounts more frequently and make sure they feel safe when eating. Eating slower is better for digestion and decreases their chances of developing bloat.

However, if your dog is gulping down food, always looks hungry, is underweight, seems painful around the mouth, has bad breath or drops food there may be a medical reason for them not being able to chew.

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Featured Image Credit: Vyshnova, Shutterstock

If you’ve started noticing you can smell your dog before you see them, it’s time to do your nose a favor and take care of the issue. You know you can give your dog a bath but what if you don’t have time? Are there any other options available?

In this article, we’ll tell you how to make your dog smell good without a bath in eight simple steps. Read on to learn how to help your stinky dog lose the odor without having to get them wet and be left with a mess!

Before You Begin

Your dog’s odor could be coming from one or more sources, which means there is a range of different steps you can take to help them smell better. Before you begin dealing with the stink, see if you can narrow down a particular part of your dog that seems extra smelly. For example, do they have bad breath or dirty ears?

Preparation

Depending on the source of your dog’s smell, you might need one or more of the following supplies:

Again, you likely won’t need every one of these items to help your dog smell better, but we wanted you to be aware of all the possible options just in case.

How to Make Your Dog Smell Good Without a Bath

1. Clean Their Ears

Your dog’s ears can be an overlooked source of an odor, easily remedied without a bath. Smelly ears can also indicate an ear infection, especially if the ears are also red, swollen, painful, or full of discharge. If you suspect an ear infection, see your veterinarian.

To clean your dog’s ears, you will need a doggy ear cleaner and cotton balls or gauze. Squeeze a little cleaner into the dog’s ear canal and massage to break up any deep-set dirt and odor. Step back and let your dog shake their head then use cotton balls or gauze to wipe out the ears.

Clean out all the folds of your dog’s ears thoroughly. Avoid sticking anything too far down the ear canal, such as a Q-tip. Repeat the process for the other ear, using fresh cotton balls or gauze.

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2. Brush Your Dog Regularly

Brushing is another way to keep your dog clean and smelling fresh without a bath. Some dogs need to be brushed daily to keep their coats tangle-free. Short-coated dogs can also benefit from brushing 1–2 times a week, however.

A good brushing removes dirt and dead hair from your dog’s coat. It can also help spread their natural skin oils evenly, improving the look and feel of the coat.

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3. Check Your Dog’s Teeth

Not all bad breath comes from your dog’s teeth, but good dental care is still a vital part of a dog’s grooming routine. Brushing your dog’s teeth is the best way to keep them healthy. Choose a toothpaste designed for dogs and brush daily if possible.

Some other options for dental care include dental wipes, chews, and water additives. Despite your best efforts, most dogs will still need a professional dental cleaning eventually. If your dog’s mouth still smells despite regular dental care, you may need to have your vet investigate other possible sources of bad breath.

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4. Use Baking Soda or Cornstarch

For a simple “dry bath” to help your dog smell better, try baking soda or cornstarch. Either product can be sprinkled on your dog and worked into the coat to help absorb odors or excess oil. To remove, simply brush away the powder and the doggy smell with it!

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5. Wash Your Dog’s Bed

If it’s been a while since your dog’s bedding has seen the washing machine, the stink of the material could be rubbing off on your dog. Over time, hair, dander, dirt, and oils can build up on your dog’s bed, even if your pup stays generally clean. The odor can then cling to your dog when they wake up from a snooze.

Give your dog’s bedding a thorough wash, possibly with a laundry additive designed to eliminate dog odors. If you can, dry the bedding outside rather than in the dryer. Sunlight and fresh air add another layer of deodorizing power.

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6. Use Waterless Shampoo or Wipes

To get your pup smelling fresh without a bath, try one of the many waterless shampoos or wipes on the market. These products are designed to quickly clean and deodorize your dog without needing to be rinsed afterward.

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7. Spritz With Doggy Cologne or Perfume

For a quick hit of smell-good fragrance, try spritzing your pup with one of the many dog colognes or perfumes available. Some of these sprays offer a deodorizing component but most just mask the dog’s smell with a preferable scent. They usually aren’t very long-lasting but can serve to make your dog smell better quickly if you have unexpected guests.

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8. Evaluate Your Dog’s Diet

Sometimes, the source of your dog’s odor comes from within. Your dog’s food plays a key role in both their health and their scent. Gassy pups are no fun to live with, and poor-quality food or too many table scraps are often to blame.

Ask your veterinarian to recommend a quality, nutritionally-balanced dog diet. Don’t be distracted by trendy buzzwords like “grain-free” or “real meat sources”. Those are meant to attract your spending money and don’t necessarily indicate a healthier food or one that’s suitable for your dog’s particular needs.

What If My Dog Still Smells No Matter What I Do?

If your dog still stinks despite your best efforts, with and without bathing, it’s time for a trip to the veterinarian. Various skin conditions can cause your dog to smell and will resist all your attempts to battle the stench. Especially suspect a skin condition if you notice other symptoms such as scratching, hair loss, or a flaky coat.

Skin conditions can be frustrating to diagnose and treat. Patience and thoroughly following your vet’s treatment plan are essential. In some cases, your vet may suggest a referral to a veterinary dermatologist for more specialized and advanced care.

Conclusion

You can’t always avoid giving your dog a full bath, especially if they routinely play in the mud or suffer from allergies. However, frequent bathing can disrupt your dog’s natural skin and coat oils, drying them out. Try these eight steps to help your dog smell better without a bath and save the complete spa treatment for when your pup really needs it.

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Featured Image Credit: Christin Lola, Shutterstock