A wedding is an important life event for couples who want to tie the knot. When a wedding has been decided on, it can be a frustrating process to try to decide on all the elements that go with a ceremony. One of the biggest considerations is whether to have the wedding planned by yourself or with the help of others. At first, you need to think about what you require. You must imagine the perfect wedding day. You can make it as wonderful as you want. You do need to consider there being limits to how much you can spend on the day, or whether the dreams you have are a practical. For now just think of your perfect wedding day. Once you have the mental image, you can start to consider the elements of that wedding. Was it on a sunny beach, such as those in Hawaii? Or was it more close to home? What are the elements you considered? Don’t think about the material things, although this is important, one of things you want to do, is to consider what exactly would make it an amazing day? For the wedding we have to allocate a budget. By setting a budget, you will get to know how much you need to set aside, or find financing for. Budgeting for wedding is not a great difference. However nothing stops you from having that home or away wedding you want. The people gathered at the wedding are the guests and the bride and groom will have a certain amount of guests they want to attend, so this is a factor to consider in the equation also. While arranging for wedding we have consider amount of guest we have have. So also factor in parents guests they want to bring. This will come down again to budget. Your wedding can be successful in many ways. Have a wedding planner to book the location, the decor, and the theme. Always work on your wedding ahead of time too, as you will not be interrupted by late hassles. Balancing these three elements will allow you to find a solution which meets your needs and fit your budget. Considering all the elements is important. Some people who feel that they cannot afford a big wedding, often feel that they have to settle for a budget wedding, however, with creativity the wedding you want can be made to happen. For the best wedding planning, always find a wedding planner. They may cost a bit of money, but are professional and are great at creating a great wedding. Another essential point for wedding is the choice of photographer and cake. If the wedding is taking place abroad then either one can arrange for a local photographer or pay the photographer to come to wedding location. Similarly wedding cakes can be ordered to be shipped over or taken over to the place.

Technorati Tags: Abroad, home, wedding

The Affenpinscher is considered a toy breed by the AKC. It is a wiry-haired dog that looks somewhat like a terrier but is not. It is a curious, active, confident, fun loving, lively and affectionate dog. It has small erect ears and some owners crop these ears, especially if he is to be a show dog. Other owners have stopped cropping the ears and still show them.

*Are They Good With Children? They can be just fine with older children. But they are generally very territorial, especially with their food and toys so they are not considered appropriate as pets for small children. There are always exceptions to the rule. Never leave very young children alone with any dog.
*Temperment. They are generally quiet but alert. They can become fierce and fearless if they or their human family is threatened. They exhibit loyalty and affection to their adopted family.
*Approximate Adult Size. Generally the adults range from 7 to 8 pounds and 9 1/2 inches to 11 1/2 inches tall at the highest point of the adult dogs back, or withers.
*Ideal Environment. A fenced yard is always ideal for a dog but they will do well in an apartment. Expect them to run around in your apartment for exercise. If you do not have a yard, they will need frequent walks to burn off some of their energy. They do not like extreme temperatures, very cold or very hot.
*Special Health Considerations. This dog is considered to be very healthy but luxating patellas or trick knee is a common problem. This is where the kneecap dislocates or gets out of whack. This condition occurs more frequently in miniature and smaller breeds. Other less common considerations are patent ductus, hip dysplasia, Legg-Calve-Perthes Syndrome and collapsed trachea.
*Grooming. He has a harsh coat which should be brushed weekly and never clipped. The coat can be difficult to work with so an occasional professional grooming would be a good idea.
*Life Span. The average life span is 10 to 12 years.
*Training. It is recommended that they be crate trained. Because they can be stubborn and difficult to house train, crate training is ideal. Crate training runs on the principle that dogs and puppies instinctively do not want to soil their immediate surroundings. This will work in your favor. As long as you take your puppy out frequently, and understand that every time that puppy comes out she will need to go outside immediately, the puppy will almost house train itself. Praise the puppy every time she does her business outside.
*Training your puppy to poop outside is not that hard. When your puppy is loose in the home, at first, follow her around and keep a sharp eye on her. She will probably have to poop either right before she eats or right after, or right before and right after. It will not be rocket science to figure out her schedule. She has some control over this function and will welcome a chance for you to help her do the right thing and learn the rules. Give her lots of praise for pooping outside, every time. She wants to please you.
*Pee training is more difficult as your puppy can pee about 10,000 times a day, or at least it seems that way. Actually, your puppy has some bladder control but not much capacity so taking her out before and after everything you do will help her figure out that peeing in the house is not the right thing to do. Lots of praise is essential when she pees outside. Raise your voice a little when you praise her as she does not understand English. At first, she will pee in the house just because she has a little discomfort and why hold it. When she figures out that you do not want her to pee in the house, she will make an effort to hold it until she goes out. Her holding time as a puppy is short so frequent outs are a necessity. Between your positive reinforcement, her increased capacity to hold her pee as she becomes an older puppy and her instinct, you will be successful. Keep in mind that there will be accidents. Be sure to wipe down with a bit of white vinegar after you clean up an accident to make the scent so she does not get the wrong idea.
*History. The Affenpinscher was developed in Germany and goes all of the way back to the 17th century. The name relates to the German affe which means monkey in German. The monkey dog. The French call them the devil dog. The breed was developed to kill rats, mice, and other vermin in and around the house and barn.
*Special Good Points.
Very loyal to family and protective.
Fun loving.
*Special Bad Points.
Can be difficult to housebreak.
Can be stubborn.

Technorati Tags: Affenpinscher, Choice, family, Puppy, Right

The Great Pyrenees makes a good watch dog and guard dog. They are wary of strangers, both man and beast. They need plenty of exercise and are not suitable for an apartment. A properly fenced in yard or acreage would be ideal. They may tend to wander so they should be kept under control. They are generally good with other pets but may fight with other dogs. They like older children, especially if they have been socialized with them at an early age. As a reminder, never leave a child unsupervised with a puppy or dog.

*Approximate Adult Size. The approximate adult size (two years old or older) of the male Great Pyrenees is 27 to 32 inches to the withers (highest point of the shoulder) and 100 to 125 pounds. The female ranges from 25 to 29 inches to the withers and 80 to 90 pounds.

*Special Health Considerations. Most dog breeds have certain inherited health problems associated with that specific breed and the Great Pyrenees is no exception, although they are considered very healthy. Be on the look out for Canine Hip Dysplasia (genetic based looseness in the hip joint that can lead to arthritis pain and lameness), epilepsy (common in dogs), eyelid defects and skin hot spots. This disease list is an informative guideline only. Other diseases may also be significant threats, please contact your veterinarian for a complete list.

She should visit the veterinarian several times in the first year for shots, boosters and check up. Then, as an adult, she should visit the veterinarian yearly for shots and check up. As she gets older, six years and on, she should visit the veterinarian twice a year for check ups and shots. Remember; avoid feeding your dog sweets.

*Grooming. The Great Pyrenees has a double coat that is weather resistant. The outer coat is flat, long, and thick. The inner coat is dense and wooly. They intensively shed their inner coat in spring and summer. They should be brushed regularly. Brushing will help her maintain a clean and healthy coat and help you keep a closer eye on her health and strengthen your emotional bond with her.

Her teeth should be brushed at least twice a week with toothpaste and toothbrush designed for dogs. Brushing removes the accumulation of plaque and tartar which can cause cavities (rarely) and periodontal disease. Dog periodontal disease can lead to pain, loss of teeth, bad breath and other serious disease.

Her toenails may need to be examined for growth and clipped regularly. The toenails of the rear feet grow slower than the toenails of the front feet. Generally a guillotine type trimmer is the best for this chore and competent instructions to accomplish this can be found on the net.

*Life Span. The Great Pyrenees can live between 10 and 12 years with proper nutrition, medical care and excellent living conditions.

*History. The Great Pyrenees came from France where they were an old natural breed. They were developed as herders and sled pullers. They were first registered by the American Kennel Association in 1933.

Some Registries:

* Great Pyrenees Club of America

*UKC United Kennel Club

*NKC National Kennel Club

*CKC Continental Kennel Club

*APRI Americas Pet Registry Inc.

*AKC American Kennel Club

*FCI Federation Cynologique Internationale

*NZKC New Zealand Kennel Club

*KCGB = Kennel Club of Great Britain

*ANKC = Australian National Kennel Club

*ACR = American Canine Registry

Litter Size: 6 to 10 Great Pyrenees puppies

Category: Working, Flock Guard

Terms To Describe: Beauty, elegance, majesty, regal, coordination, soundness, substance, intelligent, kindly, affectionate, territorial, quiet, tolerant, patient, fearless, loyal

*SPECIAL GOOD POINTS

Good watch dog.

Good guard dog.

Generally a one family dog.

*SPECIAL BAD POINTS

Shed heavily in spring and summer.

They can become aggressive.

They need an experienced handler.

Takes a lot of grooming.

Can be stubborn.

May tend to wander.

Slow maturing.

May be a barker.

May slobber and drool.

*Other Names Known By: Chien de Montagne des Pyrenees, Chien des Pyrenees, Pyrenean Mountain Dog

*Every dog is an individual so not everything in this information may be correct for your dog. This information is meant as a good faith guideline only.

Technorati Tags: great, information, Puppy, Pyrenees

Going on a date is a lot like going to a job interview – you wear your nicest clothes, you try to present yourself in the best light, and you worry about saying something stupid. And in both situations you’re trying to sell yourself to someone else. So what are the best things to do to show a woman that you’re a great catch?

1. Take extra care in your grooming. This is the first item on the list because it’s the most important. Good grooming shows other people that you care enough about yourself to do basic physical maintenance. That means your hair isn’t shaggy and unkempt (unless that’s a deliberate style choice), your clothes aren’t wrinkled or dirty, and your nails are clipped and clean. That doesn’t mean you have to go overboard and be something you’re not – your clothes should be clean, but they should also be items that you feel comfortable wearing. If you’re clean-shaven, then you shouldn’t be stubbly on a date, and if you have a beard or mustache then they should be neatly trimmed. And above all, make sure you smell good – shower and use deodorant. Remember that splashing on cologne is no substitute for a hot shower.

2. Make her laugh. That doesn’t mean that you should turn into a Catskills comedian on your date. But if you have a good sense of humor, use it! Polls consistently show that women find humor the most attractive thing about a man, above looks, money or an impressive career. Laughing together is an intimate act, and boosts endorphin levels. So if you can get her laughing, she’ll see you as a potential mate all the quicker.

3. Don’t give her a list of your faults. It’s become a common thing for people to ‘fess up to all of their flaws and bad behavior, thinking that it makes them look charmingly honest for admitting to their flaws. But look at it this way – if you were trying to sell a car, would you lead off by talking about the lousy gas mileage, the uncomfortable seats and the leaky sunroof? She’ll see your bad side soon enough. In the beginning, avoid talking too much about why you’re not a great catch – because she might believe you.

4. Care about what she has to say. Far too many men think that making a good impression means talking about themselves all night. And yes, you should tell her about your job and talk about the things that interest you. But ask her about her job, too, and her interests and her family and anything else that you can think of. Then remember what she tells you. If you’re on your third or fourth date and you remember that she loves a certain band or that her father recently had an operation, she’ll be impressed that you cared enough to pay attention to what she had to say – you might be shocked at how few men understand how important that is.

5. Pick up the check. It doesn’t really matter what you, your friends or your date feel about women’s issues – most women are old-fashioned when it comes to who pays on a date. Once you’ve won her heart, the two of you can split all the checks you like. In the beginning, though, you should absolutely, positively pay for dinner. If she’s really insistent about paying her share, tell her she can get the check next time or tell her she can pay for the movie and you’ll take car of dinner. But whatever you do, don’t split a check, especially on the very first date – it makes you look cheap, and you’ll lose points.

6. Don’t talk about old girlfriends or ex-wives. This ties into #3 above. You shouldn’t hide the fact that you’ve had other relationships, but you shouldn’t talk about them much, either, especially if you don’t have anything nice to say. If you’re harboring anger towards the women in your past, that can make you look bitter and petty in the eyes of your new flame. If you say too many good things about an ex, on the other hand, she may wonder if you have unresolved feelings for your ex. Discretion, as they say, is the better part of valor – there’s a reason why etiquette experts have always said that a gentleman doesn’t discuss his past conquests!

7. Be true to your word. Women value honesty, and many become a bit gun-shy about dating after having had their trust betrayed by men they care about. So do what you say you will – like, say, call her the next day – and follow through on your commitments. That means that you should be on time for dates and do everything you promise you’ll do, whether it’s pick up Chinese food for dinner or come over to meet her parents. If you don’t show her that you can be trusted, at best she’ll think you’re a flake – at worst she’ll assume that you’re a liar who could be cheating on her or worse. A trustworthy man is a catch, and worth his weight in gold – so be that guy and win her heart!

Technorati Tags: Amazing, best, Deal, know, ways

The Norwegian Elkhound is a heavy coated, shedding dog that prefers a cool climate. They can be kept in an apartment as long as long, frequent walks are part of her life. A properly fenced in yard would be best for her exercise. They are a clean, fairly odorless dog that will protect her human family. She will need to be extensively socialized early to get along with other pets. She generally likes older, well mannered children. As a reminder, never leave a child unsupervised with a puppy or dog.

*Approximate Adult Size. The approximate adult size (two years old or older) of the male Norwegian Elkhound is 19 to 21 inches to the withers (highest point of the shoulder) and 50 to 60 pounds. The female ranges from 18 to 20 inches to the withers and 40 to 55 pounds.

*Special Health Considerations. Most dog breeds have certain inherited health problems associated with that specific breed and the Norwegian Elkhound is no exception. Be on the look out for Canine Hip Dysplasia (genetic based looseness in the hip joint that can lead to arthritis pain and lameness), hot spots, kidney disease, eye problems and skin tumors. This disease list is an informative guideline only. Other diseases may also be significant threats, please contact your veterinarian for a complete list.

She should visit the veterinarian several times in the first year for shots, boosters and check up. Then, as an adult, she should visit the veterinarian yearly for shots and check up. As she gets older, six years and on, she should visit the veterinarian twice a year for check ups and shots. Remember; avoid feeding your dog sweets.

*Grooming. The Norwegian Elkhound has a thick double coat of hard, thick outer and soft, woolly, dense inner coat that sheds heavily, seasonally. Groom my brushing and combing several times a week. Brushing will help her maintain a clean and healthy coat and help you keep a closer eye on her health and strengthen your emotional bond with her.

Her teeth should be brushed at least twice a week with toothpaste and toothbrush designed for dogs. Brushing removes the accumulation of plaque and tartar which can cause cavities (rarely) and periodontal disease. Dog periodontal disease can lead to pain, loss of teeth, bad breath and other serious disease.

Her toenails may need to be examined for growth and clipped regularly. The toenails of the rear feet grow slower than the toenails of the front feet. Generally a guillotine type trimmer is the best for this chore and competent instructions to accomplish this can be found on the net.

*Life Span. The Norwegian Elkhound can live between 10 and 12 years with proper nutrition, medical care and excellent living conditions.

*History. The Norwegian Elkhound comes from Norway where they were used to hunt large game like elk and they were also prized as guard dogs. They were first registered by the American Kennel Association in 1913.

Some Registries:

*Norwegian Elkhound Association of America

*UKC United Kennel Club

*NKC National Kennel Club

*CKC Continental Kennel Club

*APRI Americas Pet Registry Inc.

*AKC American Kennel Club

*FCI Federation Cynologique Internationale

*NZKC New Zealand Kennel Club

*KCGB = Kennel Club of Great Britain

*ANKC = Australian National Kennel Club

*ACR = American Canine Registry

Litter Size: 7 to 14 Norwegian Elkhound puppies

Category: Hound Group

Terms To Describe: Hardy, agility, stamina, courage, friendly, dignified, reliable, enthusiastic, loyal,

*SPECIAL GOOD POINTS

Good watch dog.

Good guard dog.

Her coat is fairly odorless.

Considered a clean dog.

Very intelligent.

*SPECIAL BAD POINTS

Excessive shedder.

Needs firm obedience training.

Can be a barker with a loud bark.

May roam looking for adventure.

Can be stubborn.

Can be a one family or one person dog.

*Every dog is an individual so not everything in this information may be correct for your dog. This information is meant as a good faith guideline only.

Technorati Tags: Elkhound, information, Norwegian, Puppy

Wedding, no doubt is a very special occasion to be celebrated. Cake is the most common item in such an occasion and recently wedding cake toppers have also become quite common. Without proper wedding cake and wedding cake toppers, the entire party looks incomplete. This is why along with the choice of wedding dress, favors, accessories, it is also necessary to pay attention on the wedding cake and spend considerable amount of time with the wedding cake toppers.

With the increasing popularity of toppers in the wedding cake, the demand for custom wedding cake topper is also on a rise. The bride-groom or someone close to the bride groom may like to customize the cake topper in their own ways and this can be done quite easily. Some of the common custom wedding cake topper includes the little figures in funny poses resembling the bride and the groom or a special monogram with engravings.

Custom wedding cake topper is a very good gift to a bride and groom. The customized gift with personal touches will make them feel special and the greatest part is that they will be surprised to receive the gift. This will also add special touches to their wedding day.

In the recent days, people order for wedding cake favors through the internet. There are several sites that offer choices of cake toppers and accept orders from the customers. If necessary they also make custom wedding cake topper for their customers according to their instructions or requirements.

Since there are several kinds of custom wedding cake topper, at times it becomes difficult to select the right one. Here are few tips for help.

•    A custom wedding cake topper should be based on the personality of the bride groom. It should be memorable for the couple. A thorough research about the different available toppers can help to make a better selection of the customized wedding cake toppers.

•    The material used for the favors is also essential because at times the style of the wedding cake toppers depend on the material used.

So in the wide variety of choices, it is always better to take sufficient time in order to pick up the best topper.

Since the wedding cake is the next important thing in the occasion after the bride and the groom, it is essential to pay special attention to the wedding cake toppers. A custom wedding cake topper can also be made the center of attraction. This will make the wedding party more special and unique.

Technorati Tags: bride, cake, Custom, Gift, good, groom, Serve, Topper, wedding

The Knot recently came out with their wedding trends for 2007.

I was curious as to any other trends out there, so I researched around the web and scoured articles for other tips and trends for the new year. Some are trends carrying over from the fall wedding season. Others are fresh and new.

Bouquets with jewels: Weddings always include beautiful jewelry. Now those jewels are being added to the bouquets, too. Again, these details can be subtle, or attention-getting.

Friday night weddings: not only can you find great rates for Friday nights (though probably not for long, as the trend moves forward), but it sets the tone for a weekend event.

A lot of couples are making a weekend or week-long event out of their weddings. With friends and family coming in from out-of-town, couples are planning events that proceed the wedding, or continue the day after.

Cupcake trees/towers: depending on your wedding style, these can range from quaint to over-the-top gorgeous. With the elaborate styles that some bakers are creating, these are no longer just being used because they are a “cheaper alternative.”

Shades of Blue and Brown: a carryover from last year, blues and brown are still a gorgeous choice. And depending on the shades chosen, this color combination can be used no matter what style of wedding you have planned. Look for hues such as turquoise, powder blue, cornflower blue, denim, alice blue (a very pale, yet striking, shade)and robin’s egg blue paired with hues of brown such as medium taupe, raw umber, sepia and chocolate.

Shades of Brown and Pink: another carryover is this modern, yet classy, color combo. It harkens back to the 80’s, which is a style that has come back with an updated twist. Consider shades of coral, salmon, hot pink and puce paired with chocolate, raw umber, sepia or any shade of taupe.

“Punches” of color: a colored sash on the wedding dress, a design element on the invitations. Choosing a bright color for your wedding doesn’t have to mean you have to hand out sunglasses to your guests. If you want to add a punch of color, use hints of the color you are considering in small ways (a ribbon tied around the bouquet handle, as a table runner at the reception)

Jewel Tones: a new trend for those brides wanting something that is not a carryover, is bold jewel tones such as rich purple, red, gold and orange.

Color in wedding gowns: this trend is slowing making its way from Europe. Look for it gain momentum. If your not ready to let go of your dream of a white gown, consider a colored sash.

Back of the dress details: deep-v backs, special embroidery and other details are being paid to the back of the wedding dress.

Viennese Tables: (also known as dessert tables) various desserts, ranging from cookies to truffles to chocolate fondue. Traditional family desserts make a nice touch for the table too.

Letting the bridesmaid choose: we all know someone who (or are ourselves) are stuck with a bridesmaid’s dress that never saw the light of day once we quickly shed it for something more flattering, after (or even before) we left the reception. Another carryover trend is either choosing a style and letting the bridesmaids choose a color that suits their complexion, or choosing a color and/or length and letting the bridesmaids choose the style.

Donations to charity: instead of handing out matchbooks or boxes of chocolate, some couples are making donations in guests names. Additionally, some couples are asking for donations made to charity in lieu of presents.

Asking quests – beforehand – what to play at the reception: one reason people don’t dance at weddings? They aren’t interested in the music. While it is your day, remember your guests, and incorporate what they like. Afterall, you want them to feel welcomed.

Order of the Day cards: like a “mini-itenerary”, these cards let everyone know when and what will be taking place from the beginning of the ceremony to the end of the reception. Also included would be any information regarding things which not all guests may understand (ie: jumping the broom, or breaking the glass etc.)

Wedding “logos”: another trend from Europe headed this way, is having a logo designed that goes on everything from the save-the-date cards to the napkins to the cake toppers (another returning trend) to the “just married” sign on the car.

Glamour and elegance: it doesn’t have to be a big affair to be either of these… but expect to see candelabras with flowers draping off, designer table linens (rather than just standard white) with punches of color thrown in by the napkins, pillar candles or table runners. Touchy-feely fabrics (such as leather and suede) are also making their way into the decorating. Subtle touches are added to stationary, centerpieces and trim.

Groom’s cake: a mainstay at Southern weddings, this trend is headed north. Be sure you understand it though, before you go pick one out. It is traditionally chocolate, and boxed and given to guests as they leave. A nice touch is to incorporate a hobby of the groom’s into the cake. Consider using it as a centerpiece on the dessert table, or feature it at the rehearsal dinner.

Square tables: gives the room a clean, modern feel.

Forgoing the garter and bouquet toss: who wants to be singled out for this anyway?

In ending this list, I will say that no matter what the trends, choose according to what YOU like. Choose unique or subtle ways to incorporate these trends – but only if you like them. Don’t feel pressured to choose what doesn’t feel like it fits you and your style. The success of your marriage doesn’t rest on following trends to be perfect, and neither should your wedding.

Technorati Tags: 2007, Trends, wedding

There is a wide variety of tuxedo styles and designers to choose from at any formal wear shop. Learn how to pick a tuxedo with tips from tuxedo tailor in this free video on formal wear. Expert: Grace Sippel Bio: Grace Sippel owns Cottonwood Bridal Boutique in Cottonwood Az. Filmmaker: Chuck Tyler

Technorati Tags: Picking, Rental, Tips, Tuxedo

For many dog owners, knowing how to keep their dog warm during the cold winter months is a major concern. However, as this article will explain there are many ways to do this and to address your concerns.

If your dog is small, has short hair, or is older, then you may want to consider purchasing a dog jacket in order to help keep him warm. In some climates, it is appropriate to choose a sweater for the fall months and a heavier jacket for the colder winter months however you will be able to decide that based on the climate in your area.

When choosing outerwear for your dog choose something simple that is easy for you to put on. You do not want to end up tussling with your dog every time you come to put the jacket on them. You may need to spend some time getting your dog used to wearing a coat as some dogs do not like to be dressed up. To do this, simply put the coat on for short periods each day making sure that you give lots of good treats.

In this way your dog will learn to associate wearing his coat with yummy treats making it much easier for you to dress him. Remember to choose a coat made from durable materials that are easy to care for. Just because it is cute does not necessarily mean that it is appropriate. Also, if snow is a concern, look for water resistant materials. Do make sure that you know your dog’s measurements and do follow the manufacturer’s directions to ensure you achieve a proper fit.

Dogs that walk a lot, work outside, or are older, may also need to wear boots. Dog boots are available from many manufacturers and help keep feet protected from ice, snow, and salt. As with coats, make sure to follow the manufacturer’s directions to ensure proper fit. If you choose not to purchase boots for your dog, make sure to remove ice and snow from between his pads when he comes inside. This will help keep him warm as well as help prevent dry, cracked, irritated pads.

If your dog lives primarily outside, you will want to make sure you get him a good quality shelter of some sort. Many pet supply stores and online manufacturers make great quality dog houses in a variety of styles to meet the needs of every budget.

You will want one that will help keep wind, rain, and snow away from your dog. You will want to make sure that the opening to the dog house does not face the wind. You will also want to make sure that you lay down straw or provide a bed or several blankets to help protect your dog from the frozen ground. Make sure to change the straw and/or bedding periodically.

Blankets and beds can get wet and straw, when wet, can get moldy. Moldy straw can lead to upper respiratory and skin infections. Some people like to provide heat to their outside dog houses. It is not a good idea to do this with heating pads or space heaters with electrical cords. Your dog can chew through these cords causing a hazardous accident.

If you choose to provide heat to your outdoor dog, it is best to have this done professionally. Some pet stores offer heated beds that contain a disc that can be heated in the microwave or with hot water periodically.

During the winter, it is just as important to keep your dog properly groomed as it is during the summer. Your dog’s coat provides natural insulation against the elements. It is important to keep your dog’s coat brushed and free of mats and burrs. The hair between the foot pads needs to be trimmed up to help prevent ice balls from forming. Regular grooming will help ensure proper body temperature during the winter months.

Some dogs, especially those kept outside, will require extra food during the winter months. It is important to discuss these nutritional needs with your veterinarian or pet professional. If your dog is kept outside, it is also very important to make sure that he has access to clean, fresh water at all times. Snow and ice are not appropriate for hydration. Be careful to make sure that his water has not frozen over.

There are many things you can do to ensure that your dog stays warm and safe during the winter months. If you have further questions about how to do this, please ask your veterinary staff or pet professionals.

Technorati Tags: keep, Warm, winter

The Welsh Terrier is an on the go fun dog. It likes a lot of exercise but can live in an apartment if she can get lots of long walks. She can do alright with pets and other dogs if extensively socialized when young. They generally love the family children that they are raised with. As a reminder, never leave a child unsupervised with a puppy or dog.

*Approximate Adult Size. The approximate adult size (two years old or older) of the Welsh Terrier is 14 to 15.5 inches to the withers (highest point of the shoulder) and 20 to 21 pounds.

*Special Health Considerations. Most dog breeds have certain inherited health problems associated with that specific breed and the Welsh Terrier is no exception. Although considered a very healthy breed, be on the look out for lens luxation of the eyes and hot spots or allergic skin reactions. This disease list is an informative guideline only. Other diseases may also be significant threats, please contact your veterinarian for a complete list.

She should visit the veterinarian several times in the first year for shots, boosters and check up. Then, as an adult, she should visit the veterinarian yearly for shots and check up. As she gets older, six years and on, she should visit the veterinarian twice a year for check ups and shots. Remember; avoid feeding your dog sweets.

*Grooming. The Welsh Terrier has a hard, thick and wiry coat. She should be brushed regularly. She will also need to be plucked several times a year. Professional grooming should be considered for this breed.

Her teeth should be brushed at least twice a week with toothpaste and toothbrush designed for dogs. Brushing removes the accumulation of plaque and tartar which can cause cavities (rarely) and periodontal disease. Dog periodontal disease can lead to pain, loss of teeth, bad breath and other serious disease.

Her nails may need to be examined for growth and clipped regularly. The toenails of the rear feet grow slower than the toenails of the front feet.

*Life Span. The Welsh Terrier can live between 10 and 12 years with proper nutrition, medical care and excellent living conditions.

*History. The Welsh Terrier comes from North Wales and the north of England where they were used to hunt. They were first registered by the American Kennel Association in 1888.

Some Registries:

* Welsh Terrier Club of America

*UKC United Kennel Club

*NKC National Kennel Club

*CKC Continental Kennel Club

*APRI Americas Pet Registry Inc.

*AKC American Kennel Club

*FCI Federation Cynologique Internationale

*NZKC New Zealand Kennel Club

*KCGB = Kennel Club of Great Britain

*ANKC = Australian National Kennel Club

*ACR = American Canine Registry

Litter Size: 3 to 6 Welsh Terrier puppies

Category: Terrier

Terms To Describe: Sturdy, rugged, courage, spirit, friendly, outgoing, affectionate, alert, aware, intelligent

*SPECIAL GOOD POINTS

Makes a very good watch dog.

Very little to no shedding.

*SPECIAL BAD POINTS

Makes a poor guard dog.

May chase after moving people or objects.

*Other Names Known By: Black and Tan Wire Haired Terrier, Old English Terrier

*Every dog is an individual so not everything in this information may be correct for your dog. This information is meant as a good faith guideline only.

Technorati Tags: information, Puppy, Terrier, Welsh