ALL ABOUT
PUREBRED DOGS
This booklet contains information on: Choosing the right dog • Buying a puppy • Training your dog • Responsible dog ownership • Getting involved in dog activities
WHATEVER YOUR AGE AND STAGE OF LIFE, PUREBREDS MAKE THE BEST PETS!
WELCOME TO DOGS VICTORIA WELCOME
TO DOGS VICTORIA The decision to add a new member to your family in the form of a dog is a most rewarding one but one that should be well researched and thought out before making the purchase. All puppies are cuddly and cute but will that cute ball of fun grow into a dog that is suitable to your lifestyle.
The decision to add a new member to your family in longis term purchase and should theDogs formare of aadog a most rewarding one but one definitely be a well thought out one. Where out better that should be well researched and thought before to get all the information you need than Dogs making the purchase. All puppies are cuddly and cute Victoria. With just butunder will that cutemembers ball of fun growaround into a the dogstate that is 10,000 spread suitable to your lifestyle. we are the peak body for purebred dog owners dedicated to providing correct information on the
more 200term purchase and should definitely Dogs arethan a long recognised breeds responsible be a well thought outand one.promoting Where better to get all the breeding and ownership of purebred dogs. information you need than Dogs Victoria. With just under 10,000 members spread around the state we are Why purebred? theThis peak for purebred dogasked owners to is abody question we are often anddedicated the providing correct information on the more than 200 answer is quite simple, reliability. recognised breeds and promoting responsible • With a purebred dog of youpurebred know what that eight breeding and ownership dogs. week old bundle will grow into.
Why purebred? Purebred dogswe are often healthier This• is a question are often asked because and the answer is most Dogs Victoria members far exceed the quite simple, reliability. •
legislative requirements on heritable diseases. Most know their stock for many generations on With a purebred dog you know what that eight the pedigree old bundle grow into. week and make full usewill of available health testing.
Dogs Victoria members take pride inbecause their • •Purebred dogs are often healthier most reputation and in the puppies they breed. Dogs Victoria members far exceed the legislative requirements on heritable diseases. Most know their stock for many generations on the pedigree and make full use of available health testing.
•
Dogs Victoria members take pride in their reputation and in the puppies they breed.
The health benefits for people of all ages in dog ownership are well documented. With a Dogs Victoria registered dog a whole range of wonderful canine activities are available to be enjoyed together by all family members. You will enjoy the benefits of a well canine companion helpin dog Theexercise health benefits for people that of allwill ages improve your own health and fitness. ownership are well documented. With a Dogs
Victoria registered dog a whole range of wonderfu
Once you have made the decision to add a dog canine activities are available to be enjoyed togeth to your life allow Dogs Victoria to work with you to byyou all family members. Youfamilymember will enjoy the benefits o ensure have the best canine well exercise canine companion that will help impr possible.
your own health and fitness.
Once you have made the decision to add a dog to your life allow Dogs Victoria to work with you to ensure you have the best canine family member possible.
BENEFITS OF MEMBERSHIP WITH DOGS VICTORIA Access to the State Dog Centre KCC Park is owned by Dogs Victoria and all the facilities and land have been developed specifically for our members to enjoy with their dogs. You can bring your dog for a swim in the dam, play in the fenced, off-lead area or an onlead walk around the 74 hectacre property. The Dogs Victoria office is also at this location. Council registration discount Although your dog is registered with Dogs Victoria, you must also register it with your local council. Many councils offer registration discount for dogs registered with Dogs Victoria and allow main register dogs exemption from desexing requirements. In this state, Dogs Victoria is the only canine body granted exemption. Government lobby Dogs Victoria works with state and local government to encourage dog friendly legislation and discourage any laws that would be detrimental to dogs and their owners. This is why it is important for all Victorian dog owners to be part of Dogs Victoria. Laurie Luxmoore Library and Research Facilities Located at KCC Park, the library is home to thousands of dog-related books, magazines, videos and DVDs. The library is open on Tuesdays from 11am to 2pm and some weekends. Canine Museum Also at KCC Park, houses an amazing assortment of dogrelated artefacts from historical to whimsical. It is the largest collection of its kind in the Southern Hemisphere. Canine Health Research Foundation Provides funding for ongoing research to improve canine health and wellness. Breeder Prefix (Kennel Name) Program If you have a main register dog and choose to breed her at some point in the future you must first pass the Dogs Victoria breeder prefix exam. This will give you valuable information on the ethics of breeding and help prepare you for the responsibility of whelping a litter of puppies. Dogs Victoria Magazine As a member you will receive this glossy, full-colour magazine monthly. It is packed with articles on different breeds, training tips, show and trial results, canine health and great offers from our advertisers.
In the centre of your magazine you will find the Gazette that provides information on upcoming events in which you may wish to enter and a schedule of events for the next three months. There are important notices from the office and the ANKC Ltd (Australian National Kennel Council Ltd). This is where changes in policy, rules, regulations etc. are published so you are always up to date with the latest information. Also published in this section is information on recently registered litters, breeding prefixes approved, titles, awards and exports granted. Dogs Victoria website The website at www.dogsvictoria.org.au is constantly being updated with new information and dog-related news. Dogs Victoria events As a member, you can compete in shows and trials and earn titles for your dog. See the “Get Involved� pages of this booklet for more information. To contact us at Dogs Victoria Victorian Canine Association Inc. 655 Westernport Hwy, Skye, Victoria 3977 tel: (03) 9788 2500 fax: (03) 9788 2599 office@dogsvictoria.org.au www.dogsvictoria.org.au
FOR AREADY PUPPY? ARE YOU FOR A PUPPY?
Is your home a suitable dog environme Why do you want a dog? Will it contain your dog so it does not cau Is the dog to complete the picture of the ideal nuisance or put itself in danger? Backyard lifestyle? A pet should not be an accessory but Is your home a suitable dog environment? Why do you want a dog? more important thannot size. an integral part of your the world, a companion your dog so it does cause a Is the dog to complete picture of the ideal and a Will it contain member of A your family.not You only but consider nuisance or put itself in danger? Backyard security lifestyle? pet should beshould an accessory size. an integral of your a companion a Are youthan prepared for the financial com buying a dog part if you are world, prepared to makeand it part of is more important member of your family. You should only consider to dog ownership? yourbuying life. a dog if you are prepared to make it part Are you prepared for the financial commitment Buying the puppy, which in itself may be to dog ownership? of your life. Buying the puppy, which in itself large costs to expense, is only themay firstbeofamany Are you a suitable person to own a dog? expense, is only the first of many costs to come Are you a suitable person to own a dog? throughout the dog’s life. On top of its fo Are you willing and able to provide your dog with throughout the dog’s life. On top of its food Are you willing and able to provide your dog with thereother are regular many other regular costs (c dailydaily food, water Will you exercise bills therebills are many costs (council food, waterand andattention? attention? Will you exercise registration, innoculations, flea and heart youryour dogdog daily even when you’ve innoculations, flea and heartworm daily evenin in winter winter oror when you’ve hadhad a registration, treatment) plus unexpected accidents that may a long day at work? treatment) plus unexpected accidents tha long day at work? require veterinary treatment. require veterinary treatment. Are you ready for a long-term commitment? Are You youshould ready for a long-term commitment? A puppy still sounds nice be prepared to commit to your dog for If you areA ready, nowstill comes the question entire life, may be or more puppy sounds nice of what You its should be which prepared to ten commit toyears. yourYou dog for its breed. Take time to find a dog to match your age can’t put a puppy away in the cupboard when If you are ready, now comes the question entire life, which may be ten or more years. You can’t and stage of life. the novelty wears off. A dog is “till death us do breed. Take time to find a dog to match y put apart”. puppy away in the cupboard when the novelty and stage of life. wears off. A dog is “till death us do part”. The children need a dog teach children responsibility, but everyone in The Dogs children need a dog the family must be willing to help out. Remember, Dogs teach children responsibility, but with everyone in young children should never be left alone a dog. must be willing to help out. Remember, the family
young children should never be left alone with a dog.
ple are interested only in the look of a dog, mportant characteristics can be overlooked. ant to find a dog that suits your age and e. A little bit of research can go a long way osing your new best friend for the de.
What kind of activities do my family and I e If you are involved in outdoor activities, you’ll energetic dog with endurance. If you are more homebody type, then you want a dog that wil to laze around the house with you.
Many people are interested only in the look of a oria suggests following considerations dog, andthe other important characteristics can be overlooked. is important to find dog that suits ermining which Itbreed of dog willa best suit your age and stage of life. A little bit of research yle: can go a long way when choosing your new best friend for the next decade.
What kind of activities do my family and I enjoy? regularly? Ifthe you dog are involved in outdoor activities, you’ll want an energetic dog are with more endurance. If you of arechildren more Some breeds tolerant tha of the homebody type, then you want a dog that It is important to NEVER leave young children will be happy to laze around the house with you. with are anythe dog orofpuppy. What ages everyone who will be around the dog regularly?
CHOOSING THE RIGHT DOG FOR YOUR AGE AND STAGE OF LIFE
h space do I have available? Dogs Victoria suggests the following considerations ed whose energy level and size will suit the before determining which breed of dog will best spacesuit you can provide. your lifestyle: How much space do I have available?
h time Find cana Ibreed commit? whose energy level and size will suit eds require a lot of ofspace attention, the amount you canexercise provide. or and others are more independent and lowHow much time can I commit? ce. AllSome dogsbreeds needrequire training socialisation. a lot and of attention, exercise or grooming and others are more independent and lowmaintenance. All dogs need training and socialisation.
What are the ages of everyone who will be
Am I a first time dog owner?
Some breeds are more tolerant of children than SomeItbreeds cantobe very challenging to train others. is important NEVER leave young children alone with any dog or puppy. not be suitable for a first time dog owner. Am I a first time dog owner? Some breeds can be very challenging to train and may not be suitable for a first time dog owner.
A PUREBRED
WHY CHOOSE purchase a crossbred puppy, it is a lucky dip. PUREBRED ay end A up with a wonderful dog or something
g, small, energetic or high-maintenance.
If you purchase a crossbred puppy, it is a lucky dog has its own personality, but temperament, dip. You may end up with a wonderful dog or ppearance and many other are something too big, small,characteristics energetic or predictable in a purebred dog. high-maintenance.
Every dog has its own personality, but se these attributes are so predictable, you can temperament, size, appearance and many other mine which specific breed will best suitin a purebred characteristics are more predictable estyle.dog. Because these attributes are so predictable, you
lmost 200 recognised breeds, you’re sure to can determine which specific breed will best suit least one suits your lifestyle. your that lifestyle.
With almost 200 recognised breeds, you’re sureby to you buy a puppy from a breeder recognised find at least one that suits your lifestyle. Victoria, you will also get: When you buy a puppy from a breeder recognised by
pert knowledge about the breed Dogs Victoria, you will also get:
dvice on caring for and training dog • Expert knowledge about theyour breed
• Advice on caring for and training your dog
pport •asSupport the puppy as the grows puppy grows
• Confidence the puppy has been bred and
onfidence the inpuppy has been raised raised accordance with abred codeand of ethics • Documented familyof history accordance with a code ethics
ocumented family history
Every breed has an official standard to which breeders strive to conform. This details the appearance, personality and temperament, coat, height and weight that are ideal for the breed. Th Every breed has an official standard to that whichwere initiall are long-standing characteristics breeders strive to conform. This details the developed hundreds or even thousands of years a appearance, personality and temperament, coat, and areand now consistent theforbreed. height weight that are in ideal the breed. These are long-standing characteristics that were initially developed hundreds or even thousands of years ago and are now consistent in the breed.
PUREBRED MYTHBUSTERS DEBUNKING SOME COMMON MYTHS ASSOCIATED WITH PUREBRED DOGS
Let’s clear up a few misconceptions before you select your next family pet. Purebred dogs Purebred dog breeders put a lot of time and money into ensuring their puppies are healthy. Careful records are kept with the pedigree of each dog and many breeders even go to the trouble of using artificial insemination from purebred dogs around the world to ensure the bloodlines in Australia stay strong and varied. Do crossbred dogs have better temperaments? This is one of many ways in which purebred dogs are more predictable. When you get a crossbred dog you don’t know how it will turn out. In addition to health checks, responsible breeders make sure they use animals with good temperaments. Purebred dogs are just as loving and playful as any, but a predictable energy level means you can find a dog that fits easily into your way of life.
Are crossbred dogs non-allergenic? There’s no such thing as a non-allergenic dog. Lowshedding dogs often don’t aggravate allergies because the dog is less likely to leave hair or saliva around the house. An individual can be allergic to any or all of these things. Puppies that are a cross of two or more breeds may or may not grow into a low-shedding adult dog. There is no guarantee because they do not “breed true” like a purebred. A litter of crossbred puppies may have some that shed and some that don’t whereas a litter of a recognised breed will have the same, predictable coat. The following list is a good starting point when researching suitable breeds for an allergy sufferer. However, as each person’s allergies can differ greatly, it is advised that you spend time with a breed prior to purchase to find out if you are able to tolerate thatparticular breed of dog.
Some breeds with low-shedding coats: • Poodle (Standard, Miniature, Toy)
Are crossbred dogs healthier? Crossbred dogs are unpredictable in many ways, including health and particular inherited diseases. Purebreds are tested for issues known to affect the breed, to make sure only healthy, fit dogs are used for breeding. Many diseases are being eradicated in this way. Crossing breeds creates a genetic lottery with unknown results that therefore cannot be tested for in advance.
• Yorkshire Terrier
Aren’t purebreds for showing, and not house pets? Most dogs bred by Dogs Victoria breeders are chosen to be much loved family pets. People choose purebred dogs because they can select a predictable pet that suits their lifestyle.
• Irish Water Spaniel
When you hear the word purebred do you think of a Poodle with a lion clip? A hairless Chinese
Although low-shedding, many of these breeds require regular brushing to prevent knots and some with continuously growing coats need to be clipped several times a year.
Crested Dog? Those “showie” breeds can make great pets, but don’t forget that predictable purebreds include Maltese, Golden Retrievers, German Shepherd Dogs, Jack Russell Terriers and Border Collies!
• Portuguese Water Dog • Australian Silky Terrier • West Highland White Terrier • Chinese Crested • Cairn Terrier • Dandie Dinmont Terrier • Bedlington Terrier • Schnauzer (Giant, Standard, Miniature) • Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier
EEDER
FINDING A BREEDER
decided on a breed that will suit me to find a breeder. This new mily will be around for the next 12-15 to make sure that it arrives in your y and healthy.
Answers to expect A responsible, honest breeder will answer all of your questions openly. The reason to ask questions and visit the premises
Answers you to expect Now that you have decided on a breed that will in person is because are looking for a breeder A responsible, honest breeder will answer all of suit your lifestyle, it’s time to find a breeder. This motivated by love and care, not money. int when looking for a breeder is your questions openly. new member of your family will be around for the breeders directory online or in the next 12-15 years, so you want to make sure that it The reason ask and the premises arrives in your arms already happy and healthy. When you visit, you will to get a questions feel if this is visit a loving in person is because you are looking for a breeder home or a puppy farm. Watch out for large numbers of motivated by love and care, not money. A good starting point when looking for a breeder is litters or a big variety of breeds. When you visit, you will get a feel if this is a loving the Dogs Victoria breeders directory online or in home or a puppy farm. Watch out for large themonthly magazine. hoose this breed and how long The breeder should not let you the puppy before numbers of litters or atake big variety of breeds. involved with it? Questions to ask it is eight weeks old. They should first be treated for The breeder should not letatyou the puppy • Why did you choose this breed and how longat 2-3 weeks worms and vaccinated 6-7take weeks. premises? before it is eight weeks old. They should first be have you been involved with it? treated for worms at 2-3 weeks and vaccinated at ther breeds or litters available? • Can I visit your premises? If the breeder 6-7 refuses weeks.to discuss hereditary conditions, • Do you have other breeds or litters available? won’t let you visit the litter or see the parents or denies ore than once before choosing • Can we visit more than once before choosing If the breeder discuss hereditary you the right to return the refuses puppy,tothen you are more conditions, won’t let you visit the litter or see the our puppy? likely to end up with a puppy that isn’t as healthy or parents or denies you the right to return the puppy, • and Canfather we seeorthe mother and father or other e mother other loving as it should be. are more likely to end up with a puppy then you family members? s? that isn’t as healthy or loving as it should be. • Can we see the whole litter? In return, be a lot of In return, be prepared toprepared be askedtoabe lotasked of questions e whole•litter? When can we take the puppy home? questions about your lifestyle and situation. about your lifestyle and situation. You’ll probably beYou’ll Whenhome? are the puppies wormed and probably be asked why you chose the breed, why ake the• puppy asked why youyou chose breed, why you youwill want a puppy, wantthe a puppy, where keep it and vaccinated? where you will keep it and what type of lifestyle you what type of lifestyle you have. This is a very good puppies• wormed and vaccinated? Are the puppies registered with Dogs Victoria? sign of a caring breeder. have. This is a very good sign of a caring breeder. • If any unforseen conditions arise, can we es registered with Dogs Victoria? return the puppy? • Arearise, there can any hereditary n conditions we returnconditions associated with this breed? If so, can we see any testing results? hereditary conditions with • Do you haveassociated any questions for me?
o, can we see any testing results?
ny questions for me?
DOGS VICTORIA REGISTERS Registration with Dogs Victoria is different to council registration, which is required by law. Please ensure you register your new dog with the council in which you reside.
The Limited Register (orange certificate) indicates that dog is pedigreed but cannot be shown at conformation shows nor can the dog be bred with and have the progeny registered as pedigreed puppies.
DOGS VICTORIA REGISTERS
Any dog can be registered with Dogs Victoria.
The differences between the purebred register and the associate register is that to be on the purebred register your dog has to be of known, recognised and registered parentage of the same breed. Registration with Dogs Victoria is different to council
registration, which is required by law. Please ensure you register your new dog with the council in which pedigreed purebred dog can be listed on either you reside.
A the Main Register (blue certificate) or Limited Any dog can be registered with Dogs Victoria. Register(orange certificate).
The differences between the purebred register and the A dog onassociate the Main Register certificate) register is that (blue to be on the purebredhas register full rights. your Thedog dogs this register can beand shown in has on to be of known, recognised registered parentage of the breed. conformation shows in same order to gain titles and may
be bred from to other Main Register dogs of the A pedigreed purebred dog can be listed on either same breed and have their progeny registered as the Main Register (blue certificate) or Limited Register purebreds. (orange certificate).
www.dogsvictoria.org.au
To be on the associate register, a dog does not need to have known parentage. Dogs on any of these registers are eligible to compete in obedience, agility and many other trials and dog sports. Dogs must be desexed to be included on A dog the Main Register (blue certificate) has full the on associate register. rights. The dogs on this register can be shown in conformation shows in order to gain titles and may be bred from to other Main Register dogs of the same breed and have their progeny registered as purebreds.
The Limited Register (orange certificate) indicates that dog is pedigreed but cannot be shown at conformation shows nor can the dog be bred with and have the progeny registered as pedigreed puppies. To be on the associate register, a dog does not need to have known parentage. Dogs on any of these registers are eligible to compete in obedience, agility and many other trials and dog sports. Dogs must be desexed to be included on the associate register.
Dogs Victoria
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What’s in a name? Now that you’ve purchased a pedigreed puppy, you will notice it has quite a big name for such a cute little furball. All pedigreed dogs are named as Prefix Dogname. For example, let’s use the name “Rantino Adevl N Disguise”.
Titles Only dogs on the main register can earn champion titles in the show ring, but dogs on any register can earn titles in other sports.
For example Ch Prefix Dogname UDX CDX JDX ET has earned a “utility excellence” title in obedience (UDX), but on its way there it would have earned a CD, CDX and UD. As a higher title is earned in Rantino is the prefix, similar to a thoroughbred’s each discipline, it replaces the lower title as the Titles What’s a name? surname. All dogs bred by stud name or ainperson’s dog must earn the titles in a particular order. The Onlytitles dogsare on the register can earn champion titles Now thatkennel you’ve purchased a pedigreed puppy, that particular will have that name first. In you will other for main agility, jumping, and endurance. in the show ring, but dogs on any register can earn titles notice it has quite a big name for such a cute order to be granted a prefix, a breeder must pass in other sports. little furball. a test to show their knowledge, agree to adhere The Ch refers to championship points earned in to a strict of ethics andnamed perform health tests For the ring,Ch soPrefix not only is thisUDX dogCDX versatile Forshow example Dogname JDX ETand has All code pedigreed dogs are as Prefix Dogname. on all breeding stock, depending on the breed of skilled, but it is a great example of its breed as well. earned a “utility excellence” title in obedience (UDX), example, let’s use the name “Rantino Adevl N Disguise”. dog. Rantino is the prefix, similar to a thoroughbred’s stud If the dog the previous example wasa not but on its in way there it would have earned CD, a CDX pedigreed it couldn’t haveinearned the Chit and UD. Asdog, a higher title is earned each discipline, name or a person’s surname. All dogs bred by that replaces lower as the dog must earn titles in particular have that name first. In order to The second partkennel of thewill name, Adevl N Disguise title, but ifthe it was antitle associate it could still the have a particular order. UDX The other be granted prefix,This a breeder must a test to show been is the name of thea dog. can be anypass name “Dogname ADXtitles JDX are ET.”for agility, jumping, and endurance. their knowledge, agree a tocertain adhere to a strict code the breeder chooses within amount of of ethicsAll and perform tests on all breeding characters. dogs withhealth the same prefix must stock, Once you become a member of Dogs Victoria The Ch refers to championship points earned in the show depending on the breed of dog. have different names and a dog’s name cannot and have your puppy transferred onto your ring, so not only is this dog versatile and skilled, but it is contain someone else’s prefix. membership, your dogcan begin earning titles, a great example of its breed as well. The second part of the name, Adevl N Disguise is the too! name of the dog. This can be any name the breeder You arechooses certainly notabound to this name and can If the dog in the previous example was not a pedigreed within certain amount of characters. All dogs call yourwith dog anything you like as its call name. dog, it couldn’t have earned the Ch title, but if it was an the same prefix must have different names and a Some people choose thiscontain basedsomeone on the else’s registered associate it could still have been “Dogname UDX ADX dog’s name cannot prefix. name and others don’t. The dog in the above JDX ET.” You are certainly not bound to it this namebe and can call example might be called Devil or might Once you become a member of Dogs Victoria and have your dog anything you like as simply its call name. Some people known as Jemma (or any name) because your puppy transferred onto your membership, your dog choose based on the the owner likesthis that name andregistered choosesname it and others can begin earning titles, too! don’t. The dog in the above example might be called for the dog. Devil or it might be known as Jemma (or any name) simply because the owner likes that name and chooses it Non-pedigreed dogs are registered on the for the dog.
associate register using the name the owner has chosen Non-pedigreed for it. An associate dog can beon registered dogs are registered the associate as Fido,register or Jackusing or Queenie and there is prefix. the name the owner hasno chosen for it. No two An associate dogs can have the same name, associate dog can be registered as Fido, or Jack or and there no prefix. No two associate so evenQueenie these dogs mayishave a registered name dogs thename. same name, so even these dogs may have a differentcan tohave its call registered name different to its call name.
MAINTAINING AMAINTAINING HEALTHY PUPPY A HEALTHY PUPPY BY DR M BELL
BY D R M B E LL
There are various things you you as a as new should do There are various things a owner new owner to maintain a healthy puppy. These include following should do to maintain a healthy puppy. These a strictinclude vaccination, worming and heartworm worming prevention following a strict vaccination, protocol, ensuring your new puppy is well fed with ayour and heartworm prevention protocol, ensuring nutritionally balanced ensuring good dental health new puppy is welldiet, fed with a nutritionally balanced is maintained and that your puppy is microchipped from diet, ensuring good dental health is maintained a young and age thatand yourgroomed puppy isappropriately. microchipped from a young age and groomed appropriately. Vaccinations Vaccinations There are various vaccinations available these days, are common various vaccinations available these withThere the most being a C3 vaccine (covering days, with the most being vaccine distemper, hepatitis and common parvovirus), or a a C5C3 vaccine (covering distemper, hepatitis and parvovirus), (which covers the three main diseases already mentioned a C5ofvaccine (which These coversdiseases, the threeespecially main plus or forms canine cough). diseases already mentioned plus forms of canine the first three can be life-threatening. cough). These diseases, especially the first three can be life-threatening. (i) Canine distemper is a viral disease that can affect any age of dog, especially puppies. Affected dogs (i)present Caninewith distemper a viral disease thateyes canand often a fever,isdischarge from the affect any age of dog, especially puppies. nose, vomiting and diarrhoea. Later in the course of the Affected dogs often present with a fever, disease many dogs show muscle spasms, paralysis and if discharge from the eyes and nose, vomiting and they survive are often left with permanent brain damage. diarrhoea. Later in the course of the disease many dogs show muscle spasms, paralysis and if (ii) Canine hepatitis is a highly infectious disease they survive are often left with permanent brain affecting dogs, especially those under two years of age. damage. Affected dogs go off their food, often have diarrhoea and (ii) servere belly aches. is Inasevere they can die in Canine hepatitis highlycases infectious disease 24-36 hours. affecting dogs, especially those under two years of age. Affected dogs go off their food, often www.dogsvictoria.org.au have diarrhoea and servere belly aches. In severe cases they can die in24-36 hours.
(iii)(iii) Canine parvovirus is a isvery contagious virusvirus causing Canine parvovirus a very contagious severe bloody diarrhoea that kills many infected dogs. causing severe bloody diarrhoea that kills many infected dogs. (iv) Canine cough can be caused by viruses or bacteria. It produces a very contagious hacking cough that can (iv) Canine cough can be caused by viruses or last for bacteria. weeks. It produces a very contagious hacking cough that can last for weeks. There are various different brands of vaccines available, There are various different brands of vaccines each coming with different recommended vaccination available, coming different protocols. It iseach always best towith check with your vet recommended vaccination protocols. is always to determine the best vaccination protocol Itfor your best to dog. check with your vet to determine the best particular vaccination protocol for your particular dog. Puppies should be vaccinated at 6-8 weeks, 12-14 Puppies should be at vaccinated at 6-8 weeks, 12-14 weeks and then often 16-18 weeks. Where Protech weeks and then often at 16-18 weeks. Where C3 vaccines are used you may not require the third ProtechC3 vaccines are used you may not require vaccination. When vaccinating against canine cough the third vaccination. When vaccinating against at least two of these vaccinations need to be C5 canine cough atusing least Forte two ofDodge these vaccinations vaccinations (unless intranasal form need to be C5 vaccinations (unless using Forte of kennel cough where only one of the vaccines needs to Dodge intranasal form of kennel cough where contain the canine cough). only one of the vaccines needs to contain the canine cough). Once the series of puppy vaccines has been completed, dogs are required to be vaccinated annually unless the Once the series of puppy vaccines has been new biannual or triennial vaccines are used. Again it is completed, dogs are required to be vaccinated best to consult your vet as to which of these vaccines annually unless the new biannual or triennial best suits youare and yourAgain dog’s itneeds. vaccines used. is best to consult your vet as to which of these vaccines best suits you and your dog’s needs. Dogs Victoria
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Worming Dogs can be affected by various types of worms, these being two types of roundworm, two types of hookworm, whipworm and two types of tapeworm. Many of these worms can also affect people especially young children. Children love to kiss and cuddle dogs, especially puppies and puppies together with adult dogs love to lick puppies faces. During this licking process worm egg and larvae can be easily swallowed by humans. Hence it is very important to worm your dog regularly; in particular young puppies as they can be born with roundworm already inside them and can be infected soon after birth with roundworm and hookworm via their mother’s milk. The various worms can affect dogs in the following ways: (i) Roundworms are very good survivors with their eggs capable of living in the environment for several years. They can be passed from dogs to people. Dogs affected with notable qualities of roundworms show various signs including vomiting, diarrhoea and belly-ache. (ii) Hookworms survive inside the dog by burrowing into the gut wall and sucking blood from this area. Like roundworm they too can affect people. Dogs affected by hookworms can also develop diarrhoea. (iii) Whipworms live in the lower bowel of dogs and can spread many eggs into the dog’s droppings, which in turn can survive in the soil and dogs’ environment for years. Dogs showing signs of whipworm infection may show diarrhoea, weight loss and belly pains. (iv) Tapeworms – there are two main categories of tapeworm, hydrated tapeworm and the more common flea tapeworm. (v) Hydrated tapeworms are commonly found in areas where dogs come into contact with sheep, wild pigs and kangaroos. Dogs become infected with the worms after eating hydrated tapeworm from infected animals (e.g.eating infected sheep offal). With flea tapeworm the larvae develop in fleas and develop into adults in the dogs intestine after dogs eat infected fleas. These tapeworm are not a major health risk to the dog, but cause the dog’s backside to itch leading to them rubbing their backsides on the ground. Disturbingly around 80% of Australian dogs are affected to some degree by these various intestinal worms, hence it is important that you take preventative action and worm your pet regularly with appropriate worm preparations that will kill all the adult worms. It should be remembered that worming will kill worms present at the time of worming but unlike vaccinations
does not prevent against future worm attacks. Because dogs can be reinfected from their environment and other pets, worming treatment must be regular, especially in your dog’s early months. Most veterinarians recommend dogs be wormed at 2, 4, 6, 8, 10 and 12 weeks, then 4, 5 and 6 months and then every three months thereafter. Other things that should be done to keep your dog and family healthy and worm free are as follows: • Keep kennels and sleeping areas clean • Control fleas with appropriate flea products to prevent the common flea tapeworm • Reduce the feeding of raw meat and offal • Wash your hands after playing with your dog, and avoid your dog licking your face Fleas Fleas are one of the most common parasitic infections seen in our pets. Flea pupae can survive in your environment for a period of up to six months or more. Fleas start reproducing within 24 to 48 hours of their first feed. Fleas can cause skin irritations together with the transmission of the common flea tapeworm. Not only do fleas cause local irritation, but also prolonged exposure can cause your pet to develop allergies to the flea’s bites. Once this occurs your pet can develop generalised inflammation and irritation from the bite of one flea. For this reason it is extremely important that flea control continues at all times and not just when fleas are seen. Fleas are often resistant to many of the older flea products such as collars, powders and rinses. There are various very effective monthly products available now that provide very good protection against fleas and your local vet can provide you with the best product for your own dog’s situation. Heartworm Heartworm is a parasite transmitted by mosquitoes, which causes heart disease and heart failure. In Melbourne it has been found that 7% of the fox population carries the disease. With heartworm a single bite from a mosquito infected with heartworm can infect your dog. From this bite, heartworm larvae move through the tissues below the skin and then migrate to the heart and adjacent blood vessels of the lungs. Here they develop into adult heartworm. Heartworm and infection can be prevented by placing your dog on preventative medication. This is available in various forms, these include daily tablets, monthly tablets or a yearly injection. If puppies are placed on heartworm preventatives from a young age (normally starting around first or second puppy vaccinations)there is no need to blood test them first. However if heartworm prevention is commenced later than this, or if a dosage is missed a simple blood test may be required to ensure your dog is heartworm negative.
Microchip Microchip All dogs must be microchipped before being All dogs must be microchipped before being registered with Dogs Victoria. Microchips registered with Dogs Victoria. Microchips are a small chip the size of a grain of rice are a small chip the size of a grain of rice that under between the that is is implanted implanted under the the skin skin between the shoulder blades injection and provides shoulder blades viavia injection and provides your your dogawith a permanent means of dog with permanent means of identification. It is a fairly quickItand painless identification. is arelatively fairly quick and relatively procedure that can be that performed at the time painless procedure can be performed of vaccination or consultation at your local at the time of vaccination or consultation veterinary clinic or at council microchipping at your local veterinary clinic or at council days. All councils, RSPCA and vets have microchipping days. All councils, RSPCA and microchip readers which often quickly facilitate vets microchip which yourhave pet’s return should readers they become lost.often quickly facilitate your pet’s return should they Thesebecome days mostlost. councils insist your dog is microchipped before they can become registered. is required with your These daysRegistration most councils insist your dog council once your dog reaches 12 weeks is microchipped before they can become of age.
registered. Registration is required with your council once your dog reaches 12 weeks of age.
ight food becomes even more important As a dog owner you can reduce the chance of dental dental problems. Because it can be disease developing or delay its onset quite easily by p your pet’s teeth clean dental problems Dental Health Food – feeding and specially sticky foods and tit-bits brushing(iii) your dog’s teethsoft using prepared mon with up to 80% of dogs showing The food you feed your dog plays an important in the diet increases the chance of plaque build toothpaste and toothbrushes for dogs. Also feeding dental part disease (especially older dogs). in maintaining the health and wellbeing of up on the teeth. special formulated dry pet foods with large pieces of ms normally start with a build upfood of sticky your dog. Selecting the right becomes even more important your plaque. pet has dental As a dog owner you reduce the chance are designed tocan wipe the teeth cleanofand over time hardens to ifform If thisproblems.kibble that Because it can be difficult to keep your pet’s teeth dental disease developing or delay its onset quite remove plaque and tartar as your dog eats them helps emoved then infected, inflamed gums clean dental problems are quite common with easily by brushing your dog’s teeth using specially reduce dental disease. Your local veterinarian can help nd eventually this infection starts to affect up to 80% of dogs showing some signs of dental prepared toothpaste and toothbrushes for dogs. tailor a dental program for formulated your dog dry thatpet will bestwith help ets which can (especially in turn lead to dogs). the loss of problems disease older Dental Also feeding special foods the development of dental disease ction ofnormally the gums spread to plaque you to reduce start can with also a build up of sticky large pieces of kibble that are designed to wipein whichThe overfirst timething hardens to formnotice plaque. If this your dog.the teeth clean and remove plaque and tartar as ody organs. owners plaque is not removed then infected, inflamed your dog eats them helps reduce dental disease. ve dental problems is bad breath. Signs gums can develop and eventually this infection Your local veterinarian can help tailor a dental Nutritionprogram and body weight en are starts yellow or brown tartar over the to affect the teeth sockets which can in turn for your dog that will best help Premiumyou foods represent the best possible balanced g gums,lead a sore mouth, looseThe teeth or of the gums to the loss of teeth. infection to reduce the development of dental disease can also spread to affect other body organs. The in your dog. foods available. Unlike commercial foods, which only ting. first thing owners notice when dogs have dentalmeet the minimum daily requirement, the premium problems is bad breath. Signs that may be seen Nutrition and body weight foods arePremium designed torepresent meet thethe optimal nutritional ral factors that contribute to the are yellow or brown tartar over the teeth, bleeding foods best possible for the various life Unlike stages of your pet. dental gums, problems ofloose these areor difficulty in requirements a soresome mouth, teeth balanced foods available. commercial eating. foods, which only meet the minimum Premium foods are much more digestible,daily requiring a requirement, premium foods areindesigned to smaller amount to bethe fed and resulting much smaller There are several factors that contribute to the meet the optimal nutritional requirements for the and firmer stoollife volumes. foods feature added der your dog, theofmore chance your dog occurrence dental problems some of these are various stages ofPremium your pet. Premium foods are omega 3much and six fatty acids that helpain keeping the dental problems. as follows: more digestible, requiring smaller amount (i) Age – the older your dog, the more chance coat healthy, to beminimising fed and resulting in much smaller and firmer shedding and helping prevent haslikely of having dental problems. stoolconditions. volumes. Premium foodsfoods feature added against skin Premium also promote all dogsyour are dog more to have poorly (ii) Breed – small dogs are more likely to have omega 3 and six fatty acids that help in keeping healthy bacteria in the bowel decreasing the incidence rcrowded teeth. This makes keeping their poorly aligned or overcrowded teeth. This makes the coat healthy, minimising shedding and helping disturbances. YourPremium local vet will be der, which in turn dental disease. keeping theirleads teeth to clean harder, which in turn of gastrointestinal prevent against skin conditions. foods leads to dental disease. also promote healthy bacteria in the bowel happy to advise you concerning the best food for decreasing the incidence of gastrointestinal your pets. disturbances. Your local vet will be happy to advise you concerning the best food for your pets.
DOG OWNERSHIP RESPONSIBLE DOG OWNERSHIP
From puppy to senior, your dog will always need From puppy to senior, your dog will always need your your companionship. In fact your dog considers companionship. In fact your dog considers himself to himself to be your very best friend and how do you be your very best friend and how do you treat your best treat your best friend? All dogs look forward to the friend? All dogs look forward to the time spent with time spent with their families and friends. their families and friends. Sleeping Sleeping But first things first. Your adult dog needs its own But first things first. Your adult dog needs its own space. It should be provided with a warm bed in a space. It should be provided with a warm bed in a draught free place. draught free place. Kennelling Kennelling The kennel should have its own enclosure with The kennel should have its own enclosure with jump jump proof fences and dig-proof concrete floor for proof fences and dig-proof concrete floor for cleanliness. cleanliness. Exercise Exercise Exercise in in hand with feeding. All dogs have Exercisegoes goeshand hand hand with feeding. All dogs tohave go for a walk with one or all members of the family. to go for a walk with one or all members of Ifthe youfamily. can manage twicethe a day is ideal. If you the cantime, manage time, twice a
day is ideal. In some parks dogs are welcome both Inon some dogs aretowelcome on andand off the andparks off the lead wander both off sniffing lead to wander off sniffing and following a scent, following a scent, play ball or catch its Frisbee.play ball or a catch its Frisbee. Take aup plastic todog cleanand up Take plastic bag to clean afterbag your after your dog and put the droppings bag in the bin. put the droppings bag in the bin. www.dogsvictoria.org.au
Grooming Grooming Groom your dog every day so it always looks neat. Groom your dog every day so it always looks neat. Food and water A dog must have clean, fresh water available. Your dog needs a balanced diet, Food and water which can be met by many types of dog food on A dog must have clean, fresh water available. the market. An adult dog requires one meal a day or two small meals, if you prefer. Your dog needs a balanced diet, which can be met by many types of dog food on the market. An adult dog Raw bones are good in moderation. Your dog will requires one meal a day or two small meals, if you prefer. enjoy a good chew and it will clean his teeth and provide different nutrients. Raw bones are good in moderation. Your dog will enjoy a good chew and it will clean his teeth and provide A dog likes variety so try a little bit of table scraps, different nutrients. but remember the overfed dog becomes fat and indolent - this shortens his life span and this does A dog variety try a little bit of table scraps, him or likes yourself no so favours. Chocolate, sultanas, but remember the overfed dog becomes fat andto onions and macadamia nuts can be harmful indolent this shortens his life span and this does dogs. him or yourself no favours. Chocolate, sultanas, onions Health and macadamia nuts can be harmful to dogs. Take your dog to the vet at least once a year Health for a check up, and vaccinations. You should also Take least once a year take your your dog dogto tothe thevet vetatany time you suspect it is for a check up, and vaccinations. You should also take ill. your dog to the vet any time you suspect it is ill. Dogs Victoria
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GET INVOLVED IN GET INVOLVED IN DOG SHOWS DOG SHOWS
For contact details For of contact details see the List Affiliates at www.dogsvictoria.org.au see the List of Affiliates at www.dogsvictoria.org.au If you are interested in showing your main register dog in dog shows, also known as Conformation, the best If you are interested in showing your main register way todog get in involved is through a dog club. There are dog shows, also known as Conformation, several types of affiliated clubs that host dog the best way to get involved is throughshows, a dog and you canThere become member of any number of themthat club. are aseveral types of affiliated clubs in addition to your Dogs Victoria membership: host dog shows, and you can become a member of any number of them in addition to your Dogs BreedVictoria Club membership: This is a club set up for one specific breed. They sometimes different varieties of the Breedencompass Club same This breed theset Schnauzer Club includes Giant is a(i.e. club up for one specific breed. They Schnauzers, Schnauzers and Miniature sometimes encompass differentSchnauzers). varieties of the Not allsame breeds have(i.e. their own club, butClub if your chosen breed the Schnauzer includes breedGiant does,Schnauzers, that is the best place to get for Schnauzers andstarted Miniature conformation training advice. have Even iftheir youown don’tclub, plan Schnauzers). Notand all breeds to show, a good ideabreed to getdoes, involved thebest breed butitifisyour chosen thatwith is the place to get startedgrooming for conformation club for advice on health, and othertraining breedand advice. Even if you don’t plan to show, it specific issues. is a good idea to get involved with the breed for advice on health, grooming and other Groupclub Club breedspecific issues. All breeds are divided into seven groups. There is an affiliated group club for each group. Please see the list Group following for Club all breeds listed by group. All breeds are divided into seven groups. There is affiliated Multi an Breed Club group club for each group. Please see the list following for all listedhave by group. These clubs include a number of breeds breeds that
similar characteristics, but aren’t necessarily in the same Breed Club include the Scottish Breeds group.Multi Some examples These clubs include number of breeds that have Club and Association of AllaMastiff Breeds. similar characteristics, but aren’t necessarily in the same group. Some examples include the Scottish 18 Dogs Victoria Breeds Club and Association of All Mastiff Breeds.
All-Breed Club As the name implies, these clubs are open to all All-Breed Club purebred dogs. They are mainly designated by As the name implies, these clubs are open to all geographic andThey are are named as such, i.e. Bacchus purebredarea dogs. mainly designated by Marsh and District Kennel Club. Others have been geographic area and are named as such, i.e. created for aMarsh specific show suchKennel as the Australia Day Bacchus and District Club. Others International Dog Club, which hosts an annual dog have been created for a specific show such as the show on Australia Day. Australia Day International Dog Club, which hosts an annual dog show on Australia Day. Agricultural Societies These are also all-breed Agricultural Societiesclubs but are also involved with other agricultural them These are alsopursuits. all-breedMost clubsofbut arehost alsotheir local show. The Royal Societypursuits. of Victoria hosts involved withAgricultural other agricultural Most of thethem Melbourne Royal andshow. its associated dog show, host their local The Royal Agricultural which is theoflargest in the Southern Hemisphere. Society Victoria hosts the Melbourne Royal and its associated dog show, which is the largest in the Southern Hemisphere. At some shows there are special classes for older dogs, younger puppies and even fun prizes for best tail, head, Atgait some special classes forGazette, older eyes, etc.shows Checkthere your are monthly Dogs Victoria dogs, younger puppies even fun for which contains details on theand upcoming dogprizes shows. best tail, head, eyes, gait etc. Check your monthly Dogs Victoria Gazette, which contains on Many clubs also hold fun days, BBQs, walksdetails or other the upcoming dog shows. social events throughout the year. Many clubs hold fun with days, BBQs, If you would likealso to compete your dogwalks in or other social events throughout the year. conformation events to earn titles, it must be listed on the main register. If your dog is on the limited register, If you wouldits like to compete dogcan in please contact breeder as onlywith the your breeder conformation events to earn titles, it must be listed move a dog from the limited to main register. on the main register. If your dog is on the limited register, please contact its breeder as only the breeder can move a dog from the limited to main register.
BREEDS BY GROUP With almost 200 breeds to choose from, Australian families are sure to find at least one breed that suits them. A little research will go a long way to ensure that your new puppy will be part of the family for its lifetime. Read up on suitable breeds online or at your local library (or the Dogs Victoria library), then visit a dog show to see your chosen breed or breeds in person. All-breed shows are divided into seven judging sections, by group. The breeds in each group are as follows:
GROUP 1 – TOYS Affenpinscher Australian Silky Terrier Bichon Frise Cavalier King Charles Spaniel Chihuahua (Long Coat) Chihuahua (Smooth Coat) Chinese Crested Dog Coton De Tulear English Toy Terrier (Black & Tan) Griffon Bruxellois Havanese Italian Greyhound Japanese Chin King Charles Spaniel Lowchen Maltese Miniature Pinscher Papillon Pekingese Pomeranian Pug Russian Toy Tibetan Spaniel Yorkshire Terrier GROUP 2 - TERRIERS Airedale Terrier American Hairless Terrier American Staffordshire Terrier Australian Terrier Bedlington Terrier Border Terrier Bull Terrier Bull Terrier (Miniature) Cairn Terrier Cesky Terrier Dandie Dinmont Terrier Fox Terrier (Smooth) Fox Terrier (Wire) German Hunting Terrier Glen of Imaal Terrier Irish Terrier Jack Russell Terrier Kerry Blue Terrier Lakeland Terrier Manchester Terrier Norfolk Terrier Norwich Terrier Parson Russell Terrier Scottish Terrier Sealyham Terrier Skye Terrier Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier Staffordshire Bull Terrier Tenterfield Terrier Welsh Terrier West Highland White Terrier
GROUP 3 - GUNDOGS Bracco Italiano Brittany Chesapeake Bay Retriever Clumber Spaniel Cocker Spaniel Cocker Spaniel (American) Curly Coated Retriever English Setter English Springer Spaniel Field Spaniel Flat Coated Retriever German Shorthaired Pointer German Wirehaired Pointer Golden Retriever Gordon Setter Hungarian Vizsla Hungarian Wirehaired Vizsla Irish Red & White Setter Irish Setter Irish Water Spaniel Italian Spinone Labrador Retriever Lagotto Romagnolo Large Munsterlander Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever Pointer Sussex Spaniel Weimaraner Weimaraner (Longhair) Welsh Springer Spaniel GROUP 4 - HOUNDS Afghan Hound Azawakh Basenji Basset Fauve de Bretagne Basset Hound Beagle Black & Tan Coonhound Bloodhound Bluetick Coonhound Borzoi Dachshund (Long) Dachshund (Min. Long) Dachshund (Smooth) Dachshund (Min. Smooth) Dachshund (Wire) Dachshund (Min. Wire) Deerhound Finnish Spitz Foxhound Grand Basset Griffon Vendeen Greyhound Hamiltonstovare Harrier Ibizan Hound Irish Wolfhound Norwegian Elkhound Otterhound Peruvian Hairless Dog (Large)
Peruvian Hairless Dog (Medium) Peruvian Hairless Dog (Small) Petit Basset Griffon Vendeen Pharaoh Hound Portuguese Podengo (Small) Portuguese Podengo (Medium) Portuguese Podengo (Large) Rhodesian Ridgeback Saluki Sloughi Whippet GROUP 5 - WORKING DOGS Australian Cattle Dog Australian Kelpie Australian Shepherd Australian Stumpy Tail Cattle Dog Bearded Collie Belgian Shepherd Dog (Groen) Belgian Shepherd Dog (Laek) Belgian Shepherd Dog (Mal) Belgian Shepherd Dog (Terv) Bergamasco Shepherd Dog Border Collie Bouvier des Flandres Briard Collie (Rough) Collie (Smooth) Dutch Shepherd Finnish Lapphund German Shepherd Dog German Shepherd Dog (LSC) Komondor Kuvasz Maremma Sheepdog Norwegian Buhund Old English Sheepdog Polish Lowland Sheepdog Puli Pumi Pyrenean Sheepdog Longhaired Shetland Sheepdog Swedish Lapphund Swedish Vallhund Tatra Shepherd Dog Welsh Corgi (Cardigan) Welsh Corgi (Pembroke) White Swiss Shepherd Dog GROUP 6 - UTILITY Akita Akita (Japanese) Alaskan Malamute Anatolian Shepherd Dog Bernese Mountain Dog Boxer Bullmastiff Canadian Eskimo Dog Cane Corso Central Asian Shepherd Dog Dobermann Dogue de Bordeaux
Estrela Mountain Dog German Pinscher Leonberger Mastiff Neapolitan Mastiff Newfoundland Portuguese Water Dog Pyrenean Mastiff Pyrenean Mountain Dog Rottweiler Russian Black Terrier Samoyed Schnauzer Schnauzer (Min.) Schnauzer (Giant) Shiba Inu Siberian Husky Spanish Mastiff St. Bernard Tibetan Mastiff GROUP 7 - NON SPORTING Boston Terrier British Bulldog Canaan Dog Chow Chow Dalmatian Eurasier French Bulldog German Spitz (Klein) German Spitz (Mittel) Great Dane Japanese Spitz Keeshond Lhasa Apso Poodle (Standard) Poodle (Miniature) Poodle (Toy) Schipperke Shar Pei Shih Tzu Tibetan Terrier Xoloitzcuintle (Miniature) Xoloitzcuintle (Intermediate) Xoloitzcuintle (Standard)
GET GET INVOLVED INVOLVED IN IN GET INVOLVED IN DOG DOG ACTIVITIES ACTIVITIES DOG ACTIVITIES Dogs registered with Dogs Victoria, on any register, can compete in dog sports. The best way to get involved withVictoria, a on dog iscan through ain Dogs Victoria affiliated DogsDogs registered registered with with DogsDogs Victoria, any onsport register, any register, compete can compete dog in sports. dog sports. The best The best way to way get toclub. involved get involved with with a a dog sport dog sport is through is through a Dogs a Dogs Victoria Victoria affiliated affiliated club.club. Junior Junior Handlers Handlers
Junior Junior handler handler competitions competitions are aare great a great opportunity opportunity
Junior competitions are a to great for young forhandler young DogsDogs Victoria Victoria members members to compete compete at shows at shows opportunity for young Dogs Victoria members with with their their purebred purebred dog.dog. You can You learn can learn about about dogs,dogs, to compete at shows with develop develop confidence, confidence, make make newtheir friends new purebred friends and compete and dog. compete alongside alongside otherother young young handlers handlers at conformation at conformation shows shows You can learn about dogs, develop confidence, held held onnew most on friends most weekends. weekends. Heats are held are held at allat breeds all other breeds make andHeats compete alongside championship championship shows shows conducted conducted on non on school non school days. days. young handlers at conformation shows held on most weekends. Heats are held at all breeds At the AtJunior the Junior Kennel Kennel Club Club of Victoria’s of Victoria’s championship championship championship shows conducted on non school showshow held held in July, in July, juniorjunior handlers handlers compete compete in theinstate the state days. final;final; eacheach statestate final final winner winner then then competes competes in thein the national national finals.finals. The winner The winner of the ofbest the best juniorjunior handler handler at at At Kennel ofEngland Victoria’s thethe national theJunior national finals finals wins wins aClub tripato trip to England to compete to compete in in championship show held inatJuly, junior handlers the World the World Challenge Challenge held held at Crufts Crufts each each year. year.
Agility Agility
Agility is a fast, exciting, fun activity for you and your dog. Agility involves competitors directing their dogs around obstacle courses in an attempt to both negotiate the obstacles correctly and ‘beat the clock’. The obstacles comprise Agility Agility is a fast, is a fast, exciting, exciting, fun activity fun activity for you for and you and various types of jumps, ramps, elevated walks, poles your your dog.dog. Agility Agility involves involves competitors competitors directing directing their theirthat the dogs weave through, types tunnels dogsdogs around around obstacle obstacle courses courses in andifferent inattempt an attempt to both to of both negotiate negotiate thesee-saw. obstacles the obstacles correctly correctly and ‘beat and ‘beat the clock’. the clock’. and a The obstacles The obstacles comprise comprise various various typestypes of jumps, of jumps, ramps, ramps, elevated elevated walks, walks, poles poles that the thattraining dogs the dogs weave through, through, Participation in agility orweave trialling is great different different types of tunnels ofyou tunnels and aand see-saw. a see-saw. fun. types It enables to provide a release for the
energy of your pet and yourself in a way that
Participation Participation in agility in agility training training or trialling or trialling is great is great fun. fun. can be much more interesting and exciting than It enables It enables you to you provide to provide a release a release for the forenergy the energy of of simply taking your dog for that a walk. It helps your your your pet and pet yourself and yourself in a way in a that way can be canmuch be much moremore family pet to become more responsive to you and interesting interesting and exciting and exciting than than simply simply taking taking your your dog dog also helps you to gain more control and have for a for walk. a walk. It helps It helps your your family family pet to pet become to become moremore a more to obedient dog. Agility an exciting way to responsive responsive you to and you also and helps also helps youisto you gain to gain moremore Manual Manual and Junior and Junior Handler Handler Regulations Regulations located located from from enhance leisure timedog. withdog. control control and have andyour have a more a more obedient obedient Agility Agility is an is an ANKC the ANKC Ltd website Ltd website www.ankc.org.au/media/6578/15www.ankc.org.au/media/6578/15exciting exciting way to way enhance to enhance your your leisure leisure time time with with your dog. Ifthe you are between 7 and under 19 years of age ankc-reg15_junior-handlers_oct-16v2.pdf ankc-reg15_junior-handlers_oct-16v2.pdf your your dog.dog. you can compete in junior handlers.
compete in the state final; each state final winner then in7 the finals. If youIfcompetes are youbetween are between and7 national under and under 19 years 19 years ofThe age ofwinner you age can youof can compete compete in junior in junior handlers. handlers. the best junior handler at the national finals wins a trip to England to compete in the World Challenge MoreMore information information can be can found be found in theinJunior the Junior Handler Handler held at Crufts each year.
More information can be found in the Junior HandlerManual and Junior Handler Regulations 20 20DogsDogs Victoria Victoria located from the ANKC Ltd website www.ankc. org.au/media/6578/15-ankc-reg15_juniorhandlers_oct-16v2.pdf
Obedience Obedience
Do youwant want to stop your dog jumping up, digging, pullingthe on the lead, refusing to comecalled when called etc? Do Do you you want to to stop stop your your dog dog jumping jumping up, up, digging, digging, pulling pulling on on the lead, lead, refusing refusing to to come come when when called etc? etc? Well, Well, dog dog Well, dog obedience training is what you need! Where can I get involved? obedience obedience training training is is what what you you need! need! Where Where can can II get get involved? involved? Dogs Victoria has many dog obedience training clubs that can help you enjoy this activity with your dog. Most clubs train weekly and they welcome all purebreds and mixes of all shapes and sizes. They can help Dogs Dogs Victoria Victoria has has many many dog dog obedience obedience training training clubs clubs that that can can help help you you enjoy enjoy this this activity activity with with your your dog. dog. Most Most you teach your dog to do fun things like retrieving, jumping obstacles on command, responding to hand clubs clubs train train weekly weekly and and they they welcome welcome all all purebreds purebreds and and mixes mixes of of all all shapes shapes and and sizes. sizes. They They can can help help you you teach teach your your signalsdo and much more.retrieving, jumping obstacles on command, responding to hand signals and much more. dog dog to to do fun fun things things like like retrieving, jumping obstacles on command, responding to hand signals and much more. CompetitionObedience Obedience is available at club level, youwish mayto wish to compete at Dogs competitions. Victoria competitions. Competition is Competition Obedience is available available at at club club level, level, you you may may wish to compete compete at at Dogs Dogs Victoria Victoria competitions. RallyO RallyO
RallyO aa fun sport where you and your dog work RallyO is is sport where and your dog work RallyO is as a fun fun sport whereyou you and your dog work together a team performing various exercises in together as a team performing various exercises in aa in together as a team performing various exercises more more informal informal and and light-hearted light-hearted manner manner than than a more informal and light-hearted manner than traditional obedience. traditional obedience. traditional obedience. Dogs Dogs Victoria Victoria has has many many dog dog obedience obedience training training clubs clubs Dogsoffer Victoria has many This dogactivity obedience training that RallyO training. promotes that offer RallyO training. This activity promotes aa bond bond clubs that offer RallyO training. This activity and between between you you and and your your dog, dog, as as positive positive praise praise and promotes a bond between you and your dog, as interaction interaction is is encouraged encouraged in in this this sport. sport. positive praise and interaction is encouraged in this sport.
www.dogsvictoria.org.au www.dogsvictoria.org.au
Track Track and and Search Search
Track and Search is challenging type of Track is aaismore more challenging typetype of tracking tracking Trackand andSearch Search a surface, more challenging of which includes variable busy residential area, which includes variable surface, busy residential area, tracking which includes variable surface, busy as night. as well well as as tracking tracking both both day day and night. residential area, as well asand tracking both day and night.
Dogs Dogs Victoria Victoria
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Tracking
Tracking and rewarding dogdog sport Trackingisis aachallenging challenging and rewarding sport which ability. whichutilises utilisesyour yourdog’s dog’snatural natural ability. Tracking is something that both purebred and Tracking is something purebred andfor mixed mixed breed can do.that It isboth a natural instinct a breed is a natural instinct for a dog to dog tocan usedo. its Itsense of smell. The dog’s tracking use its is sense of smell. The dog’s tracking ability is ability extremely acute and we still don’t extremely acute we capabilities still don’t understand the dog’s understand theand dog’s in this area. capabilities in this area. Dogs have helped the hunter to find game and Dogs have in helped thedogs hunter to find game and food and France hunt for exotica likefood and in France dogs hunt for exotica like truffles. truffles. We don’t have to teach a dog to track, we use their natural instinct to teach them that we want to follow a 22
Dogs Victoria
certain trackhave or scent. Dogs a learn theirwe amazing We don’t to teach dogtotouse track, use sense of smell,instinct to follow trail tothem a certain or scent. their natural toateach thattrack we want to follow a certain track or scent. Dogs learn to use Dogs learn to use theirofamazing sense of smell, their amazing sense smell, to follow a trail to to a follow a trail toor find articles and the best reward of all, certain track scent. to find a tracklayer at the end. Dogs learn to use their amazing sense of smell, to Handlers learntotofind readarticles their dog’s language which follow a trail and body the best reward of in enables them to trust their dog’s nose and all,turn to find a tracklayer at the end. follow them into the unknown.
Handlers learn to read their dog’s body language which in turn enables them to trust their dog’s nose and follow them into the unknown.
Endurance Endurance
Field Trials Field Trials
you have a gundog you the of option training If you have a gundog have thehave option training IfIf you have ayou gundog you have the of option of your for retrieving and/or fieldTraining work. Training your dog fordog retrieving and/or work. training your dog forfield retrieving and/or field work. your newfor friend for retrieving and/or field work bringsfield your new friend retrieving and/orfor field work brings Training your new friend retrieving and/or out the natural traits which have been bred into your been out thework natural traits which have been bred into your brings out the natural traits which have forgenerations. many generations. gundoggundog for many
bred into your gundog for many generations.
As ayou bonus the joy and your As a bonus willyou findwill thefind joy that youthat andyou your As acan bonus will understanding find the joyother that you and dog achieve from eachand other andyour dog can achieve fromyou understanding each dog can achieve from understanding each other yournatural dog’s natural bringingbringing out yourout dog’s traits. traits.
and bringing out your dog’s natural traits.
Field are using registered purebred aretrials competitions using registered purebred Field trials arecompetitions competitions using registered Can you ride a bike while controlling your dog on Field trials gundogs where dogs and handlers are tested for gundogs where dogs and handlers aredogs tested for purebred gundogs where and handlers are the end of a loose two metre lead, or are you a obedience and natural abilitynormal under normal obedience and for natural huntinghunting ability under tested obedience and natural hunting ability runner who will be quite happy to run 20kms with hunting conditions. There areforms threeofforms of field trials huntingunder conditions. There are three field trials normal hunting conditions. There are three your dog? If so Endurance is for you! for the various of hunting dogs.are There for the various types oftypes hunting dogs. There fieldare field forms of field trials for the various types of hunting ridewhile a bikecontrolling while controlling your Can youCan rideyou a bike your dog on dog the on the trials fortrials for the pointing and setting field trials the pointing and setting breeds,breeds, field trials dogs. There are field trials for the pointing of atwo loose two metre or are you20kms a who runner whofor utility end of aend loose metre or are you a runner The endurance test is lead, over alead, distance of forgundogs utility gundogs and field for spaniels andand and field trials fortrials spaniels and setting breeds, field trials for utility gundogs and will be quite happy to run 20kms with your dog? If so will be quite happy to run 20kms with your dog? If so retrievers. of the disciplines judge compares and is split into three sections, the first being eight retrievers. In each In of each the disciplines a judgeacompares Endurance is for you! Endurance is for you! field trials for spaniels and retrievers. In each the of two at(aa brace) time (aand brace) and a dog of the the work of work two dogs atdogs a time a dog kilometres, the second and third is six kilometres. disciplines a judge compares the work of two dogs is either eliminated or promoted to the next round is either eliminated or promoted to the next round There is a break of 15 minutes between the first The endurance test aisdistance over a distance of and 20kms The endurance test is over of 20kms is and is depending depending on its standard of work. on its standard of work. at a time (a brace) and a dog is either eliminated and second sections and 20 minutes between the split intosections, three sections, firsteight beingkilometres, eight kilometres, split into three the firstthe being or promoted to the next round depending on its second and sections. You’ll haveisto spend a the second and third is six kilometres. There is a break the second andthird third is six kilometres. There a break Field are conducted three different Field trials aretrials conducted at threeatdifferent levels orlevels or standard of work. suitable ofbetween time tothe get both and your standards, of amount 15 minutes first and you second sections of 15 minutes between the first and second sections standards, theseNovice being Novice Stake,orOpen these being Stake, Open All or All dog fitand to compete in thissecond sport. 20 minutes between the second and third sections. and 20 minutes between the and third sections. Ageand Stake and Championship Stake. The Age Stake Championship Stake. The type of type work of work Field trials are conducted at although three different levels You’ll toaspend a suitable You’ll have to have spend suitable amountamount of time of to time get to get required required each level is identical the standard at each at level is identical although the standard or standards, these being Novice Stake, Open both and your dog fit to compete in this sport. both you andyou your dog fit to compete in this sport. of competition at the levels higherislevels is obviously of competition at the higher obviously better. better. or
www.dogsvictoria.org.au www.dogsvictoria.org.au
All Age Stake and Championship Stake. The type of work required at each level is identical although the standard of competition the Dogshigher Victoria 23 is Dogsat Victoria 23 levels obviously better.
Retrieving Trials
The of well-bred and well The ability abilityand andintelligence intelligence of well-bred and well trained gundogs is remarkable. Dogs Victoria and and trained gundogs is remarkable. Dogs Victoria various affiliated clubs conduct competitive retrieving various affiliated clubs conduct competitive trials for registered gundogs. Retrieving Ability Tests retrieving trials for registered gundogs. Retrieving may also include Associate Gundogs.
Ability Tests may also include Associate Gundogs.
These events are designed to test the various breeds These events are designed to test the various in the type of work for which they were developed breeds in the of type of work for which they were over hundreds years. They provide breeders with
developed over hundreds of years. They provide opportunity to test the natural
24 Dogswith Victoria breeders the
theworking opportunity to test natural instincts the of instincts ofthe their dogsworking and therefore their dogs and therefore the chance to select breeding chance to select breeding stock on the basis of stock on the basistemperament of appropriate and temperament and for of appropriate for preservation preservation of their invaluable working instincts. their invaluable working instincts. These trials provide the opportunity for owners to experience the pleasure of working closely with their These trials provide the opportunity for owners to dogs in competitive field sports.
experience the pleasure of working closely with their dogs in competitive field sports.
Lure Coursing
Lure Coursing Lure Coursing
Lure coursing the opportunity to do what comes naturally... to chase, sniff thesniff ground, jump, pivot Lure coursinggives givesyour yourdog dog the opportunity to do what comes naturally... to chase, the ground, jump, and chase again. pivot and chase again. Lure coursing Lure coursing gives breed your givesdog your the dog opportunity the opportunity to dotowhat to docomes what comes naturally... naturally... to chase, to achase, sniff the sniff ground, the ground, jump, environment. pivot jump, pivot Regardless of ofof dog, they areare able themselves in safe controlled Regardless ofthe the breed dog, they ablerun toand run enjoy and enjoy themselves in and a safe and controlled and chase and again. chase again. There are no dangerous which they can runwhich into and thecan arearun is enclosed KCCisPark, ownedwithin by Dogs environment. There areobstacles no dangerous obstacles they into andwithin the area enclosed Victoria. This area is fully fenced and gives the dog the perfect opportunity to play a sport that comes closest KCC Park, bybreed Dogs Victoria. This is run fully fenced andingives dog the perfect opportunitytotowhat Regardless Regardless ofowned the breed of the of dog,of they dog,are they able aretoarea able run to and enjoy and themselves enjoy themselves a safe inthe and a safe controlled and controlled environment. environment. they do naturally...to chase off lead. play sport that comes closest to what they do naturally...to offwithin lead.within Thereaare There no are dangerous no dangerous obstacles obstacles which they whichcan they runcan into run and into the and area theischase area enclosed is enclosed KCC Park, KCCowned Park, owned by Dogs by Dogs Victoria. Victoria. This area Thisis area fully is fenced fully fenced and gives andthe gives dog the the dog perfect the perfect opportunity opportunity to playto a play sportathat sport comes that comes closestclosest to whatto what
The equipment equipment used isisquite simple and consists of 300 metres of fishing line line strung around several pulleyspulleys set they do they naturally...to do naturally...to chase off chase lead. off lead. The used quite simple and consists of 300 metres of fishing strung around several set into the ground to form the course. A plastic bag is tied to the line and is powered around the pulleys by a batteryinto the ground to form the course. A plastic bag is tied to the line and is powered around the pulleys by a operated The operator can stop the consists lure 300 at any time can change as well. The equipment The motor. equipment used isused quiteissimple quite simple and consists and of metres 300 metres ofand fishing of fishing line strung linedirection strung aroundaround several several pulleyspulleys set batteryoperated motor. The operator canofstop the lure at any time and can change direction asset well. into the into ground the ground to formtothe form course. the course. A plastic A plastic bag is bag tied is totied the to linethe and line is and powered is powered aroundaround the pulleys the pulleys by a batteryby a batteryoperated operated motor. motor. Theto operator The canand stop can the stop lure the at lure any time anyand time can and change can change direction direction as well. well. This sport appeals bothoperator big small dogs andat often several different breeds run as together. If your dog is unsure
This sport appeals to both big and small dogs and often several different breeds run together. If your of what to do, it can be run with an experienced dog so that they get the idea. The crowd encourages the dogs and, dog isThis unsure of what to do, it small can be run with an experienced dog breeds so that they get theyour idea. Theunsure crowd This sport appeals sport appeals to bothto big both and big anddogs small dogs often and several often several different different breeds runcause together. run together. If is dog unsure if confused, their owners are encouraged toand show them how to run. This can quite ayour fewIfdog laughs asiswell. encourages ifanwith confused, their are encouraged to show them how run. This can of whatoftowhat do, to itthe can do,dogs be it can runand, be with run experienced an experienced dog owners sodog thatso they thatget they theget idea. theThe idea. crowd The crowd encourages encourages theto dogs theand, dogs and, if confused, if quite confused, their owners their owners are encouraged arewell. encouraged to show tothem showhow them tohow run.to This run. can This cause can quite causeaquite few laughs a few laughs as well.as well. cause a few laughs as Earthdog
Earthdog Earthdog
Herding
Herding Herding
When the early settlers arrived at became what became WhenWhen the When early the settlers early settlers arrived arrived at whatatbecame what the early settlers arrived at what became Australia, Australia, they brought they brought with them with their them ways their ofways using ofways using Australia, they brought with them their of Australia, they brought with them their ways of using the land thetoland land provide to land provide sustenance, this included this included livestock livestock using the to sustenance, provide sustenance, this included the to provide sustenance, this included livestock and the and dogs thethey dogs had they used had toused guard toto and guard herd and this herd livestock and the dogs they had used tothis guard and the dogs they had used guard and herd this stock. stock. Working Working dogs quickly dogs quickly became became part ofpart the of the stock. Working dogs quickly became of the and herd this stock. Working dogs part quickly became backbone backbone of the developing of the developing nation,nation, of which of is which was said is was said backbone of backbone the developing nation, of which nation, is was said part of the of rode the developing for many for years manythat years Australia that Australia rode on the on sheep’s the sheep’s back. back.
for that Australia rodeyears on the sheep’s back. of many whichyears is was said for many that Australia Earthdog Earthdog isisanan instinct isinstinct an instinct testtest fortest small terriers smallterriers terriers and other and other Earthdog forfor small and Earthdog is an instinct test for small terriers and other rode on the sheep’s back. breedsbreeds that were that originally were originally bred for bred hunting for hunting burrowing burrowing Herding Herding challenges challenges the working the working breedsbreeds and allows and allows other breeds that were originally bred for hunting breedsanimals. that were originally bred formaze hunting burrowing challenges the working and allows animals. Dogs follow Dogs follow anDogs underground anfollow underground using maze only using only them Herding to them get to in touch get in with touchtheir withinstinct their instinct tobreeds round to round up and up and burrowing animals. an underground animals. Dogs follow an underground mazethat usingthat only move them to get in touch with their instinct todogs round up and their keen their sense keen of sense smell. of This smell. is This another is another sport sport ducks move and ducks sheep. and sheep. Many suburban Many suburban backyard backyard dogs Herding challenges the working breeds and allows maze using only their keen sense of smell. This is their keen sense of smell. This another sport that is great isfor great dogs forthat dogs don’t thatlive don’t in is urban live in or urban suburban or suburban move ducks and sheep. Manytheir suburban backyard dogs of a working of a working breed breed have shown have shown great herding great herding instincts. instincts. them to get in touch with instinct to round another sport that is great for dogs that don’t settings. settings. Fordogs those Forthat that those don’t thathave don’t a have garden, a garden, is a it is a is great for don’t live in urban orit suburban This isof This aa good is a way good to way get to your getworking your working dog out dog of out the ofinstincts. the working breed have shown great herding up and move ducks and sheep. Many suburban live inway urban orthem settings. Forinstinct those great great toway let tosuburban letthat exercise them exercise their instinct their to dig.ittothat year and year into into paddock. the paddock. settings. For those don’t have a garden, isdig. a This isand athe good way toaget your working dog out of the backyard dogs of working breed have shown don’t have a garden, it is a great way to let them great way to let them exercise their instinct to dig. year and into theinstincts. paddock. great herding This is a good way to get Dogs Victoria Dogs Victoria 25 25 exercise their instinct to dig. www.dogsvictoria.org.au www.dogsvictoria.org.au your working dog out of the year and into the Dogs Victoria 25 www.dogsvictoria.org.au paddock.
Lure Racing Lure Racing
Sled Sports Sled Sports
Sledding, backpacking and pulling weight pulling Sledding, backpacking and weight are all are all Sledding, backpacking and weight pulling are all considered sled sports. considered sled sports.
considered sled sports.
Sledding in Australia a dirtbut track, Sledding is done isindone Australia on a dirtontrack, the but the same principals as insledding. snow sledding. Dogs pull same principals apply asapply in in snow pull Sledding is done Australia onDogs a dirt track, but the scooters, for 1-2 dog or teams, or 3-wheeled rigs for larger scooters, for 1-2 dog teams, 3-wheeled rigs for larger same principals apply as in snow sledding. Dogs teams over a distance of 3-5 kilometres. To participate teams over a distance of 3-5 kilometres. To participate pull scooters, for 1-2 dog teams, or 3-wheeled rigs in sledding it is most important that your in sledding it is most important that your dog hasdog the has the for larger teams over a distance of 3-5 kilometres. right equipment and training. right equipment and training.
To participate in sledding it is most important that your dog has the right equipment and training. Backpacking is an enjoyable activity both and Backpacking is an enjoyable activity for bothfor you andyou
your dog.vary Hikes vary in from length from adistance short distance your dog. Hikes in length a short For aday’s great day’s fun you and your pampered pampered For aagreat fun for you and your pampered canine canine For great day’s fun for for you and your suited to puppies and less fit dogs all the suited to puppies and less fit dogs all the way up way pet why not try lure racing? All dogs love to run and pet why not try lure racing? All dogs love to run and Backpacking is an enjoyable activity forupboth you canine pet why not try lure racing? All dogs love to ahike 65km hike that takesvary place over three days.aFor to a 65km that takes place over three days. For chase. Lure is Racing is different from lure coursing chase. Lure Racing different from lure coursing in that in that and your dog. Hikes in length from short to run and chase. Lure Racing is different from lure this hike dogs andare hikers are required to all all the dogs and hikers required to carry allcarry is run over a straight course 80 metres to 100 metres for this hike it is run itover a straight course of 80 toof100 for distance suited to puppies and less fit dogs coursing in that it is run over a straight course of equipment self-suffienciency. To qualify equipment neededneeded for self-suffienciency. To qualify small terriers andsmall other small breeds. small terriers and other breeds. way up to a 65kmforhike that takes place over three 80 to 100 metres for small terriers and other small for the Working Pack Dog title dogs must carry for the Working Pack Dog title dogs must carry the full the full days. For this hike dogs and hikers are required to breeds. 30 percent of its bodyweight over a certain distance. of its bodyweight over a certain distance. The dogs arefour raced atfrom a time from starting The dogs are raced at afour time starting boxes boxes 30 percent carry all equipment needed for self-suffienciency. Of these coursehikes these hikes never shouldbe never be attempted with Of course should attempted with andachase a lure by pulled by a battery-operated machine. and chase lure pulled a battery-operated machine. To qualify foruntrained, the Working Pack Dog title dogs must dogs that are not in excellent health. are untrained, unfit or unfit not inor excellent health. Hurdle races andjumps water jumps are also included Hurdle races and water are included on our on ourdogs that The dogs are raced four at a also time from starting carry the full 30 percent of its bodyweight over fun days. The antics of some dogs when first raced have fun days. Thechase antics a of lure somepulled dogs when raced have boxesand by afirst batteryWeight pulling is a competition of these strength that should many pulling is adistance.Of competition ofcourse strength that many the spectators rolling with laughter, some stayjumps in the Weighta certain hikes the spectators rolling with laughter, some stay in the operated machine. Hurdle races and water breeds of dog canasenjoy as long as they are of auntrained, breeds of dog can enjoy long as they are of a boxes and others run straight to the fence to a person boxes and others run straight to the fence to a person never be attempted with dogs that are are also included on our fun days. The antics of suitable size.pull Dogs pull a wheeled with weights suitableunfit size.or Dogs a wheeled rig withrig weights theyinstead know, instead of chasing lure. After a of couple of they know, of chasing the lure.the After a couple not in excellent health. some dogs when first raced have the spectators (proportional to thebody dog’sweight) body weight) to the dog’s across aacross a races idea very catch the (proportional races they getthey the get ideathe and areand veryare keen tokeen catchtothe rolling withenclosed some stay inisthe boxes andPark, finish line. finish line. General fitness be maintained General fitness must bemust maintained when when lure. Alaughter, fully enclosed racetrack located KCC lure. A fully racetrack is located at KCC at Park, Weight pulling is a competition of strength that others run straight to the fence to a person weightpulling asloads heavycan loads canunnecessary place unnecessary weightpulling as heavy place Westernport Hwy,Jack Skye. Jack Russell Westernport Hwy, Skye. Russell Terriers,Terriers, both both many breeds of dogdo long as they they know, ofand chasing the lure. After a strain and ifcan you do not as maintain sound strain and lead to lead injuryto if injury you not enjoy maintain sound purebred and crossbred anysmall other small breeds purebred andinstead crossbred anyand other breeds are of a suitable size. Dogs pull a wheeled rig couple ofon races they the idea and are very condition your dog. physicalphysical condition of your of dog. join in on raceget days. can joincan in race days. with weights (proportional to the dog’s body keen to catch the lure. A fully enclosed racetrack weight) across a finish line. General fitness must be 26 Victoria Victoria is atDogs KCC Park,Westernport Hwy, Skye. 26located Dogs maintained when weightpulling as heavy loads Jack Russell Terriers, both purebred and crossbred can place unnecessary strain and lead to injury if and any other small breeds can join in on race you do not maintain sound physical condition of days. your dog.
with Dogs DancesDances with Dogs
with a new way to train and Dances Dances with dogs is dogs a newisfun wayfun to train and compete with your dog. Dances with dogs compete with your dog. Dances with dogs has twohas two freestyle and heelwork to Each music. Each stream streams,streams, freestyle and heelwork to music. stream four separate levels and eachThe level. The has fourhas separate levels and titles totitles each to level. levels are starters, intermediate and advanced. levels are starters, novice, novice, intermediate and advanced.
Therapy Therapy Dogs Dogs
A small but dedicated group of volunteers who with their own dogs visit a variety of places around Victoria. There is a wide variety of dogs from Corgis to Great Danes including Rottweilers, German Shepherds, Poodles and Labradors.
Freestyle is just that, technical moves to aofpiece of Freestyle is just that, technical moves to a piece A handler is only limited their imagination… music. Amusic. handler is only limited by theirby imagination… It’sofa taking way ofall taking alltricks of theand tricks and skills all you’ve all It’s a way of the skills you’ve small but dedicated group of volunteers who with dedicated group of volunteers who with being fun having withpast in the past and choreographing A small Abut being having withfun in the and choreographing These dogs have been well socialised from very their own dogs visit a variety of places around Victoria. their own dogs visit a variety of places around Victoria. to produce a snappy catch the them tothem musictotomusic produce a snappy routine routine to catchtothe early puppyhood, ie. Puppy vet school, going is variety a wide of variety dogs from to Corgis There isThere a wide dogsof from Corgis Greatto Great judges eye. judges eye. to shopping strips, farmers markets and meeting Danes including Rottweilers, Shepherds, Danes including Rottweilers, GermanGerman Shepherds, Poodles and Labradors. people in a positive environment. This combined Poodles and Labradors. Heelwork toinvolves music involves traditional heelwork Heelwork to music traditional heelwork (dogs (dogs For a great day’s fun for you and your pampered with some basic obedience, sit, stay and walking shoulder to handlers knee) choreographed to a piece shoulder to handlers knee) choreographed to a piece canine pet why not try lure racing? All dogs love These dogs have been well socialised from very early These dogs have been well socialised from very early of music. The twist is, in heelwork to music there are of music. The twist is, in heelwork to music there are quietly on a leash are the makings of a potential to run and chase. Lure Racing is different from lure puppyhood, ie. vet Puppy vet school, to shopping ie. Puppy school, going togoing shopping eight recognised heelwork Doesn’t sound sopuppyhood, eight recognised positions. Doesn’tcourse sound so therapy dog. coursing in thatheelwork it is run over apositions. straight of strips, farmers and meeting in a strips, farmers marketsmarkets and meeting people people in a simple now it? progress As you progress the levels, simple now does it?does As you throughthrough the levels, 80 to 100 metres for small terriers and other small positive environment. This combined withbasic some basic environment. This combined with some of thepositions eight positions should be included in a positiveDogs more ofmore the eight should be included in a should bewalking able to dealquietly with unusual breeds. obedience, and walking on aare leashsituations are sit, staysit, andstay quietly on a leash so that by the advanced level, dog should obedience, routine routine so that by the advanced level, the dogthe should and the likes of wheelchairs, walking frames, the makings of a potential therapy dog. the makings of a potential therapy dog. be working in both left and right heel positions as well be working in both left and right heel positions as well hospital and rehab equipment all the while being The dogs are raced four at a time from as front and backbody cross body heelwork. Add as front and back cross heelwork. Add to starting this to this friendly without being boisterous. Dogs be should to deal with unusual situations and Dogs should ablebe to able deal with unusual situations and boxesand chase a lure by batterythat in allpositions eight positions dog can be moving that in all eight thepulled dogthe can beamoving either either the likes of wheelchairs, walking frames, hospital and the likes of wheelchairs, walking frames, hospital and forwards or backwards. forwards or machine. backwards. operated Hurdle races and water jumps rehab equipment all thebeing while being friendly rehab equipment all the while friendly withoutwithout The owner/handlers too should possess certain are also included on our fun days. The antics of being boisterous. being boisterous. Both streams are technically challenging and can draw Both streams are technically challenging and can draw people skills and be sensitive to the ways of some dogs when first raced have the spectators skills from both obedience andto agility to increase on skillson from both obedience and agility increase the elderly and unwell. Of course spare time to rolling with laughter, some stay in the boxes and The owner/handlers too possess should possess The owner/handlers too should certain certain people people the technical of a routine. These can be combined the technical merit ofmerit a routine. These can be combined volunteer usually during the week is essential. others run straight to the fence to a person skills be sensitive to the of the elderly and skills and be and sensitive to the ways of ways the elderly and with a repertoire of varying moves varying leg weaves and with a repertoire of moves from legfrom weaves and they know, instead of chasing the lure. After a unwell. Of course spare time to volunteer usually during unwell. Of course spare time to volunteer usually during to reversing props and walking backwards spins tospins reversing around around props and walking backwards couple ofhind races theis week is essential the week essential legs.they get the idea and are very on hindon legs.
keen to catch the lure. A fully enclosed racetrack is located at KCC Park,Westernport Hwy, Skye. www.dogsvictoria.org.au www.dogsvictoria.org.au Jack Russell Terriers, both purebred and crossbred and any other small breeds can join in on race days.
Dogs Victoria Dogs Victoria 27
27
BEYOND BEAUT Y BEYOND BEAUTY GROOMING GROOMING FOR GOOD HEALTH
FOR GOOD HEALTH
BY EVE A DAMSON
You already know that grooming makes your dog look knowBut that grooming makes lovelyYou andalready smell sweet. grooming is also oneyour of dog look lovely and smell sweet. But grooming the most important things you can do to maintain your also one of the mostgrooming important you dog’sisgood health. Regular is things a bit like a can do to maintain your dog’s good health. Regular light version of a veterinary exam. That makes it extra grooming is afor bitkeeping like a light version of a veterinary important, not just your pup pretty but exam. That makes it extra important, just for as the best possible way for you to establish not what’s keeping your pup pretty but as the best possible physically normal for your dog. Every time you put for you establish what’s physically combway to coat, you to have the chance to assess yournormal dog’s for your dog. Every time you put comb toincoat, ongoing health and detect any sudden changes you have chance to assess skin, coat, eyes, the ears, nose, rear, paws, your nails,dog’s joints, or ongoing health and detect any sudden changes generalised pain. If anything changes, you’ll be the first in skin, coat, eyes, ears, nose, rear, paws, nails, to notice. joints, or generalised pain. If anything changes, you’ll be the first to notice. An all-over rubdown is a great way to begin every grooming session. It loosens dead coat, increases An all-over rubdown is a great way to begin every circulation in the skin, relaxes your dog for grooming grooming session. It loosens dead coat, increases – and it’s also an important skin check. Lumps, bumps, circulation in the skin, relaxes your dog for rough patches, sores, or bare spots in the coat may be grooming – and it’s also an important skin check. missed if you aren’t actually putting your hands on your Lumps, bumps, rough patches, sores, or bare spots dog in a methodical way. This is also an excellent way in the coat may be missed if you aren’t actually to determine whether your dog has picked up any ticks putting your hands on your dog in a methodical or fleas. way. This is also an excellent way to determine whether your dog has picked up any ticks The once-over will alert you to other changes too. If or fleas. your dog has a sore knee, hip, elbow, or shoulder, it may flinch or yelp in pain when you touch or rub it in The once-over will alert you to other changes that particular spot. If you find a lump, a sore spot, a too. If your dog has a sore knee, hip, elbow, or shoulder, it may flinch or yelp in pain when you 28 Dogs Victoria touch or rub it inthat particular spot. If you find a lump, a sore spot, a bare patch, or anything else unusual and new, let your veterinarian know. Please don’t baulk at telling the vet about a lump or bump because you’re afraid it might
BY EVE ADAMSON
bare patch, or anything else unusual and new, let your be cancer. It may bedon’t just a harmless, benign veterinarian know. Please baulk at telling the vet cyst. Or if it is, for example, a mass cell tumor about a lump or bump because you’re afraid it might– a common type cancer that often manifests be cancer. It may beof just a harmless, benign cyst. Or as if a bump on the skin – early detection and treatment it is, for example, a mass cell tumor – a common type almost always in complete recovery. of cancer that often result manifests as a bump on the skin – early detection and treatment almost always result in Orifice inspection. It may not be the most pleasant complete recovery. chore, but gazing into your dogs’ eyes – and ears, nose, mouth, and rear – is most also an important Orifice inspection. It may notend be the pleasant part of a grooming health check. Problems chore, but gazing into your dogs’ eyes – and ears, often up and in these sensitive areas. Yeasty ear nose,show mouth, rear end – is also an important part infections, gum disease, tooth decay, dry eye, of a grooming health check. Problems often show up impacted anal glands, even worms, aregum just some in these sensitive areas. Yeasty ear infections, of the conditions that can be spotted disease, tooth decay, dry eye, impacted anal visually. glands,
even worms, are just some of the conditions that Call your vet if you notice any of the following can be spotted visually. • Red, rashy ears • Excessive ear hair, with clumps of was and dirt • Runny nose • Foul breath • Red, infected areas on notice gums •any Tartar on teeth • Loose Call your vet if you of the following or broken teeth • Red, irritated eyes • Excessively • Red, rashy ears • Excessive ear hair, with clumps watery tearstains • of runny, was and dirt •eyes, Runnyornose • Foul under breatheyes • Red, Redness, rash, or sores around the rear end • infected areas on gums • Tartar on teeth • LooseAny (flea dirt, tiny or anything orforeign broken substance teeth • Red, irritated eyesworms, • Excessively unusual) around the rear. runny, watery eyes, or tearstains under eyes • Redness, rash, or sores around the rear end • Any foreign substance (flea dirt, tiny worms, or anything unusual) around the rear.
Behaviour assessment Beyond the actual handsNow hair this! After checking your dog thoroughly, on aspects, grooming is also a special time to tune the next step in regular grooming is usually in to and bond with your dog. When you’re busy brushing or combing the coat. If you have a longall day, it can be easy to miss subtle signs that your coated breed, this very important step can help pet’s not feeling well. you spot skin problems you might not be able to detect with your hands. Don’t just brush the top The best way to assess his behaviour during layer of hair: if your dog is having any kind grooming is to minimise distractions. Turn off the of skin problem, it will be down at the roots, so television, the radio, the computer. Let grooming that’s where you have to look. Combing all the be the time when you focus on your dog, and way down to the skin can reveal hot spots and skin nothing else. Without the normal distractions of life infections hidden under matts and tangles. You you may realise you’ve been noticing behavioural might also find evidence of fleas or an attached eht tuohti W .esle gnihton dna ,god ruoy no sucof uochanges y ehtfor ,ylhaguwhile, oroht gwithout od ruoy really gnikcehregistering c r et f A ! s ih t r iah w o N tick. neeb ev’uoy esilaer yam uoy efil fo snoit ca rt sid lam rothem. n r o g n ih s u r b y lla u s u s i g n im o o r g r a lu g e r n i p et s t xe n yllaer tcan uohtialso w ,elih w aarogreat f segnway ahc lato r u o i va h e b g n i c i t o n s i h t ,d e e r b d e t a o c - g n o l a e v a h u o y f I . t a o c e h t g n i b m o c Regular brushing be .m e h t g n i r e t s i g e r u oy s m e l b o r p n i k s t o p s u oy p l e h n a c p e t s t n a t r o p m i y r ev Think about whether its been eating and drinking assess a short-coated dog’s overall health. As you t s u j t ’n o D . s d n a h r u o y h t i w t c e t e d o t e l b a e b t o n t h g i m brush, feel andsexamine the state of your dog’s as usual, playing in the usual way, sleeping or a gniknird dna gnitae neeb sti rehtehw tuoba knihT d n i k yn a g n i v a h s i g o d r u o y f i : r i a h f o r e ya l p o t e h t h s u r b resting more. on skin and coat. Is the skin smooth and supple, or dry .erom gnitser ro gnipeels ,yaw lausu eht ni gniyalp ,lausu s’ taht oHas s ,s tit oobeen r eht tareluctant n wod eb lto liwgo ti ,m el b o r p n i k s fo walks? Acting confused? Hiding? Scratching and flaky? Is ?the coat soft and shiny, or dry and desufnoc gnitcA ?sklaw no og ot tnatculer neeb ti saH ot n wod yaw eht lla gnibmoC .kool ot evah uaoy erehw brittle? If yourdndog eating uoraisdn e raer sa ti ghealthy, niggarD ?high-quality tol a gnihctarcS ?gnidilot? H Dragging neddih snits oitrear cefni end nik s daround na s top sthe toh carpet? l a eve r n a c n i k s e h t Limping? 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E Each of these may – or may not – be a sign they are not, Sometimes, .mesign lborp eh a fo sproblem egats gninis nig ebsubtle eht gnias cneirepxethat si s ses sis ao t yaw taerg a ethe b oslbeginning a na c gnih sustages r b r a lu g eR youradog experiencing the very first ofhtalahealth as dna leefproblem. ,h su rb uoy s A .htlaeh lla revo s’god detaoc -t roh s of a health a driedout coat and flaky skin. eht erew s tneilc rieht em dlot net fo evah snai rani reteVeterinarians V nik s eht sIhave .taoc doften na nik stold s’gome d rutheir oy f o e ta t s ehwere t e n im a xe clients ,smelborp htlaeh suoi res fo sngis eht top s ot seno t s rfi dna t fos taoc eht sI ?y kafl dna y rd ro ,elppus dna htoom s the first ones to spot the signs of serious health la cigoloruen neve dna ,snoit cefni nik s ,recna c sa hcus ,yhtlaeh a gnitae si god ruoy fI ?elt ti rb dna y rd ro ,ynih s problems, such as cancer, skin infections, and t s rfi eht det top s ren wo tep eht ,sesa c ynam ni ;snoitidnoc sih ,sdica y t ta f laitnes se tneicfi fus htiw teid y tilauq - hgih even neurological no t rep xe eht era uoY .nois ses gnimoorg a gni rud sngis eciton uoy fI .noconditions; itidnoc taerginnimany eb dlucases, oh s taocthe dna ni k s pet owner spotted the first signs during ,yliad ti moorG .yad y reve ti ees uoy esua ceb god ruoy e h t , s e m i t e m o S .n a i r a n i r e t ev r u oy o t a klagrooming t , t o n e r a ye h t a poleved seod god ruoy fi taht os ,ylkeew t sael ta session. ro - deYou i rd a are sa elthe tbus expert sa si meon lboryour p htladog eh a because fo ngis t s rfi y rev you see it every day. Groom it daily, .detaert ti evah na c dna ti hcta c ll’uoy ,melborp yhtlaeh .nikor s yat kaflleast dna taoc t u o .nois sim rep CKA htiw detni rpeweekly, R so that if your dog does develop a no - sdnahyou’ll laut cacatch eht dnoityand e B tn e m s sehave s sa ruit o i va h e B healthy problem, can dna oReprinted t ni enut ot with emit AKC laiceppermission. s a o s la s i g n im o o r g ,s t c e p s a treated. eb na c ti ,yad lla ysub er’uoy neh W .god ruoy htiw dnob .llew gnileef ton s’ tep ruoy taht sngis eltbus s sim ot ysae g n i m o o r g g n i r u d r u o i va h e b s i h s s e s s a o t ya w t s e b e h T eht ,noisivelet eht f fo n ruT .snoit ca rt sid esiminim ot si nehw emit eht eb gnimoorg teL .retupmoc eht ,oida r
CARE OF THE CARE OF THE OLDER DOG OLDER DOG
Dogs Victoria offers advice on how to ensure that your dogDogs is a valued member of your community. Here are a Victoria offers advice on how to ensure that few your tips on how care formember an olderof dog. dog is atovalued your community. Here are a few tips on how to care for an older dog. When is a dog old? Around the age of seven years dogs begin to enter what When is a dog old? some like to call ‘their golden years’. Luckily for most of average seven years dogsfor begin to Like this Around is about the halfage of the life span a dog. enterdogs whatare some like to callat‘their golden years’. humans, living longer present. Luckily for most this is about half of the average lifeofspan foryou a dog. Like humans, Signs aging can note include: dogs are living longer at present. Loss of some senses Signs of may aging you can note include: Aging dogs experience the same diminishing of senses as aging humans. The first of these will probably Loss hearing of someand senses be their eyesight. This will make your Aging dogs may experience the same diminishing dog reluctant to move very far from the house and of senses as aging humans. The first of these will apprehensive with strangers. Fortunately dogs are lucky probably be their hearing and eyesight. This will make your dog reluctant to move very far from 30 Dogs Victoria the house and apprehensive with strangers. Fortunately dogs are lucky with regard to the deterioration of the senses as they rely more on
with regard to the deterioration of the senses as they rely more onsense their sense of than smellsight thanor sight or hearing. their of smell hearing. Their Their sense of smell rarely deteriorates. Deafness maymay occur sense of smell rarely deteriorates. Deafness occurdogs in older but their ability pick up will in older but dogs their ability to pick uptovibrations vibrations willthem. usually them. Eyefrom problems usually protect Eyeprotect problems range damage, range from damage, infections,Their irritations, to to be infections, irritations, to cataracts. eyes need cataracts. Their eyes need to be inspected inspected regularly. regularly. Stiffness in the joints Stiffness in the jointsin getting to its feet indicating Your dog may be slow Your dog may be slow in getting to in its the feetjoints. possible arthritis, rheumatism and pain indicating possible arthritis, rheumatism and pain This stiffness is very evident in the cooler weather and in the joints. This stiffness is very evident in the to with increasing ages. Some dogs may be reluctant cooler weather andhave with previously increasing not ages. climb stairs where they hadSome any dogs may be reluctant to climb stairs where theyto problems. Arthritis simply means structural changes have previously not had any problems. Arthritis the dogs’ bones involving degeneration and the physical simply means structural changes to the dogs’ breakdown of joints. Rheumatism means fluid in the bones involving degeneration and the physical joints causing pain and inflammation. breakdown of joints. Rheumatism means fluid in the joints causing pain and inflammation.
Dementia Dementia may affect the very old dog and owners need to be caring and understanding just as they would be with an aging human. A sign of this is when your dog walks out the front gate and continues to walk down the street becoming lost and disorientated. You need to explain to children what is happening to their friend and playmate. Incontinence Dementia affect the very old dog and owners need This is aDementia commonmay problem particularly with to females. be caring and understanding just as the they dog would be desexed It usually occurs when withor angets aging human. A sign of this is when youradog wakes up excited. Incontinence is often out thewith frontthe gate and continues to walk down the gradualwalks problem mouth of the bladder streetcausing becomingleakage lost and disorientated. You need to weakening and getting worse explain to children what is happening to their friend over a long period of time. Your dog cannot help and playmate. it and scolding her will not cause her to stop. Incontinence
Decaying teeth Thisor is aloose common problem particularly with desexed Just likefemales. humans their teeth arewakes not what It usuallygums occursand when the dog up or gets they used to be and they may need attention. excited. Incontinence is often a gradual problem with the mouth the bladder weakening causing Sometimes tartarofbuildup, difficulty in eating orleakage andraw getting worse over a long period of signs time. Your dog chewing bones, and bad breath are help it Bad and scolding her will notindicate cause her to stop. of teethcannot problems. breath can also other health problems such as kidney Decaying disease. or loose teeth
Close attention must be paid to the older dogs’ feet, as less walking will result in his nails becoming longer. You can reduce the risk of health problems and help your older dog live to a long, full life by having regular veterinary check ups and by feeding him a diet that is specifically designed for the older dog to reduce any unnecessary weight gain. Special food is available to help your canine You can reduce the risk of health problems and help your older dog live a long,at full by having friend maintain his to weight a life safe level. regular veterinary check ups and by feeding him a diet that is
specifically designed for the reduce any You will need to check his older teethdog on to a regular basis, weight gain. Special food is available asunnecessary his teeth will become loose or decayed, asto your canine frienddoggy maintain his weight at a help hehelp gets older. Using toothpaste can safe level. reduce tartar buildup. In severe cases your vet may have to clean the dog’s teeth. You will need to check his teeth on a regular basis, as his teeth will become loose or decayed, as he gets older.
Incontinence is not a pleasant problem but there Using doggy toothpaste can help reduce tartar buildup. are ways to deal with it. Seek advice from your In severe cases your vet may have to clean the dog’s teeth. vet, as medication is available. Natural remedies Incontinence is not a pleasant problem butor there are and herbs from your local naturopath health waysstore to deal withalso it. Seek advice from your vet, as food may be helpful. medication is available. Natural remedies and herbs from
your local naturopath or health store maintained may also Coated breeds benefit from food an easily be helpful. hairstyle when older. Explain to your groomer that Just like humans their gums and teeth are not what they your dog is older and may need special attention. Coated breeds benefit from an easily maintained used to be and they may need attention. Sometimes Heart problems He should never be forced to stand or sit in hairstyle when older. Explain to your groomer that tartar buildup, difficulty in eating or chewing raw bones, These will first show up in an older dog as shortness uncomfortable for long periods of time. your dog is olderpositions and may need special attention. He and bad breath are signs of teeth problems. Bad breath of breath and reduced energy. Other symptoms If you have any problems with your older dog, no should never be forced to stand or sit in uncomfortable can also indicate other health problems such as are coughing, especially at night, and a potbelly matter how please your veterinarian positions forminor, long periods of consult time. kidney disease. indicating fluid buildup in the lungs. It is best for advice. If you have any problems with your older dog, no matter problems confirmed by a vet. to haveHeart the condition how minor, please consult your veterinarian for advice. These will first show up in older dog as shortness Unfortunately the condition is an often not noticed breath and reduced energy. Other symptoms are until it isofwell advanced. coughing, especially at night, and a potbelly indicating
buildup in the lungs. It is best to have the condition Excess fluid water drinking confirmed by a vet. Unfortunately the condition is often This also occurs in the older dog and may indicate not noticed until it is well advanced. the presence of underlying health problem. All dogs need fresh clean water at all times, but Excess water drinking gulpingThis large amounts of water frequently not the also occurs in the older dog and mayisindicate normal.presence of underlying health problem. All dogs need fresh clean water at all times, but gulping large amounts
of water frequently Lower tolerance level is not normal. If your older dog is exhibiting these conditions you Lower may find thattolerance your doglevel is not as tolerant around If your older is exhibiting these conditions you young children as dog he may have been when may find thatmovement your dog is not as tolerant young younger. Sudden or getting in around the way children as he may have been when younger. Sudden of children at play may result in fear and pain for movement or getting in the way of children at play may the dog and a nip or bite for the child. result in fear and pain for the dog and a nip or bite for the child.
How to care for the older dog As dogsHow grow they to older care for thebecome older dogfixed in their habits and less adaptable tobecome change. If he has habits As dogs grow older they fixed in their andaccustomed less adaptableto tocertain change. routines If he has become become it is accustomed to these certainroutines routines itasis little important important to disturb as to disturb these routines little as possible. Being doesn’t possible. Being olderasdoesn’t mean that heolder won’t mean thatOn he outings won’t enjoy walk. On to outings enjoy his walk. he his may want walkhe atmay want to walk at side, explore, sit in another the sun, play your side, explore, sityour in the sun, play with with another dog, or wait for you to do whatever you are dog, or wait for you to do whatever you are doing. doing. Just give him the opportunity to exercise at his Just give him the opportunity to exercise at his own pace and ensure his physical and mental well being. own pace and ensure his physical and mental well being. Close attention must be paid to the older dogs’ feet, as less walking will result in his nails becoming longer.
www.dogsvictoria.org.au
Dogs Victoria
31
BARKING BARKING DOGS DOGS
Dogs Victoria offers tips on how to ensure that your dog Dogs Victoria offersof tips on community. how to ensure that your is a welcomed member your Here are a is ahow welcomed member ofdog yourdoes community. few dog tips on to ensure that your not bark Here are and a few tips your on how to ensure that your continuously upset neighbours. dog does not bark continuously and upset your Whyneighbours. dogs bark
Barking is a perfectly normal and natural canine Why dogs bark behaviour. Together with whining and growling and Barking is a perfectly normal and natural canine bodily gestures like wagging their tail and licking – it is behaviour. Together with whining and growling the way that dogs communicate with each other. If you and bodily gestures like wagging their tail and own a dog, you should expect it to bark occasionally. licking – it is the way that dogs communicate with It is each unrealistic toIfthink you can trainyou your dog to stop other. you own a dog, should expect barking However, is not acceptable your it to altogether. bark occasionally. It isit unrealistic to thinkfor you dogcan to bark continuously all day and all night. You and train your dog to stop barking altogether. yourHowever, neighbours much happier if thedog barking is it iswill notbe acceptable for your to bark under control. continuously all day and all night. You and your neighbours will be much happier if the barking is 32 under Dogscontrol. Victoria
Dogs that bark do so for a variety of reasons: that bark so for a variety of reasons: • Dogs Boredom anddo frustration – to alleviate these • Boredom – to alleviate these problems and dogsfrustration begin barking, often with the owner problems barking, oftenthe with theor yelling running dogs out ofbegin the house to scold dog owner running outthe of the house to scold dog at it from inside house to ‘shut up’. the As far as the ordog yelling at it from inside the house to ‘shut up’. As is concerned, it has achieved what it wanted. farSome as the dog is concerned, it has achieved what attention even if it is a scolding is better than it wanted. Some attention even if it is a scolding is no attention at all. better than no attention at all. •
Loneliness – dogs that are socially isolated or • Loneliness – dogs that are socially isolated or confined for long periods of time alone will bark confined for long periods of time alone will bark becausethey theyneed needsome someform formof ofoutlet outletfor fortheir their because pent-up energy.Dogs Dogs alone daywill will take pent-up energy. leftleft alone allall day take up barking as a call for company and before up barking as a call for company and before long long it becomes a habit. it becomes a habit.
ar and excitement – dogs will bark excitedly when stranger• comes to the door or as an instinctive Fear and excitement – dogs will bark excitedly arning of an intruder whentoa the dogdoor senses when a strangerorcomes or asaan reat. Barking is their outlet, helps to release instinctive warning of anwhich intruder or when a dog senses a threat. Barking is their outlet, which helps nsion for a dog.
•
to release tension for a dog.
n – some dogs will bark just for the sheer fun of it • Fun – some dogs will bark just for the sheer fun of • d just like loud it can be verybe unpleasant for it and justmusic like loud music it can very unpleasant man neighbours. for human neighbours.
to stop uncontrolled o stop How uncontrolled barkingbarking The first step is recognising that most dogs bark st step because is recognising that most dogs bark because they are lonely, bored, frustrated, e lonely, bored, frustrated, frightened, excited,These frightened, excited, or alerting us to danger. ting us are to danger. These all situations that an all situations thatare an owner can alleviate. can alleviate.
If you think you have a dog that may be upsetting the neighbourhood, there are a number of steps hink you have a dog that may be upsetting the that can be taken to reduce the problem.
bourhood, there are a number of steps that can be o reduce thehelpful problem. Some hints to stop uncontrolled barking
are: A well-exercised happy dog is more likely to helpful•hints to stop uncontrolled barking sleep all day while its owners are not at home, so spend time playing with the dog. Even if you have well-exercised happy is more likely todog sleep a large yard, youdog still need to give your funall y whilethings its owners are not home, so spend to occupy itselfat such as a digging pit time or a special aying with the chew dog. toy. Even if you have a large yard,
u still need to give your dog fun things to occupy • If your dog spends most of its time alone in elf suchthe asback a digging a special toy.– the yard, itpit willor need ‘social chew exercise’
opportunity to walk around the neighbourhood,
so spends that it caninvestigate and identify allthe the back sounds your dog most of its time alone in and smells that tantalise the dog when it is in its rd, it will need ‘social exercise’ – the opportunity yard. walk around the neighbourhood, so that it can vestigate identify the sounds and smells • Ifand possible, bringall the dog into your house when at tantalise theatdog when is help in itsyour yard. you are home. Thisitwill dog to feel
a part of its family or ‘pack’ and not a distant relation. is extremely to get on the possible, bring Itthe dog intoimportant your house when you floor and have fun with your canine companion.
e at home. This will help your dog to feel a part its family or ‘pack’ and notisagreat distant It is • Obedience training fun relation. for the whole tremelyfamily important to getmental on theexercise floor and havedog. fun and is terrific for your dogs really enjoy rapid play ‘trailing’ games th your Most canine companion.
of ‘heel’, ‘sit’, ‘down’, ‘stand’, and ‘come’ for hugs, massage, and a celebration of praise and bedience training is great fun for the whole family treats. Never allow training to become dull – d is terrific mental your dog. Most dogs always makeexercise it fun andfor interesting.
ally enjoy rapid play ‘trailing’ games of ‘heel’, ‘sit’, • Dogs and are ‘social’ and need regular own’, ‘stand’, ‘come’animals for hugs, massage, and a companionship. Taking your dog to the park daily lebration of praise and treats. Never allow training or weekly to make doggy friends will make a big become dull – always make it fun and interesting.
difference. Dogs romping and playing together tire rapidly and will sleep happily while they ogs are recover. ‘social’ animals and need regular If possible, get another dog to keep your dog company, it doesn’t matter breed, mpanionship. Taking your dog to the what park daily although two dogs of the opposite sex usually weekly to make doggy friends will make a big make the best companions.
ference. Dogs romping and playing together tire pidly and will sleep happily while they recover. If ssible, get another dog to keep your dog company, doesn’t matter what breed, although two dogs of the posite sex usually make the best companions.
ne of the simplest ways to teach a dog NOT to dog
Sometimes puppies will bark because they are separated from you (their pack). Pups will eventually • One of the simplest ways to teach a dog NOT settle down if you NOT toittheir to dog something is toDO teach therespond dog to do on barking If you call In out visit teach them the while are barking, command. thisorcase, dogthey to ‘bark’, ‘speak’ or be ‘talk’ on command. Once the dog has they will rewarded for barking and continue to d been taught the meaning of the word, use the so, so it is important to be strong and not give in. command ‘no speak’ when you want the dog to be quiet.
If the family dog is barking because it is warning of
possible intruder, acknowledge dog •a Sometimes puppies will bark becausethe they areand say separated from you (their pack). Pups will calmly ‘oh good dog...go to your kennel now…well eventually settle if you DO NOT respond to to be a done’. After alldown many people want their dog their barking. If you call out or visit them while they guard dog and the dog simply wants its pack to be are barking, they will be rewarded for barking and alerted to theso, danger. There istonobepoint continue to do so it is important strongyelling at the not doggive to ‘shut up’ as the dog only thinks its owner and in.
is joining in on the alert. Once the danger has been
•acknowledged, If the family dog the is barking because it is warning dog will be satisfied and will of a possible intruder, acknowledge the dog usually shut up. and say calmly ‘oh good dog...go to your kennel now…well done’. After all many people want their dog to be a guard dog and the dog simply wants its pack to be alerted to the danger. There is no point yelling at the dog to ‘shut up’ as the dog If you continue toishave problems, another only thinks its owner joining in on the alert. Onceoption is to consult or local obedience the danger hasyour beenvet acknowledged, the dog training will be satisfied and will usually shut up. club for some special advice. Please feel free to
contact Dogs Victoria for further advice on what do totodeal a problem ‘barker’. Ifyou you can continue havewith problems, another option is to consult your vet or local obedience training club for some special advice. Please feel free to contact Dogs Victoria for further advice on what you can do to deal with a problem ‘barker’.
•
•
Some recent photographs of your dog. These will be helpful in finding your dog if you are accidentally separated.
supply stores.
TAKING YOUR DOG ON HOLIDAY The telephone number of your veterinarian and any special medication your dog needs.
Airlines, trains, buses, boats, hotels, and motels have their own regulations about dogs. Make sure that you speak to your travel agent or directly to the people concerned well in advance of your trip. You can contact Dogs Victoria on 9788 2500 or visit www.dogsvictoria.org.au for further information.
34
TakingDogs your Victoria dog on a holiday can be fun and rewarding. To have a safe and comfortable trip, take the following items with you: • A strong lead and collar for your dog to wear. Attach suitable identification to the collar, including the dog’s name, address, and council registration. You should also ensure your dog is microchipped. • Some recent photographs of your dog. These will be helpful in finding your dog if you are accidentally separated. • The telephone number of your veterinarian and any special medication your dog needs. • Pack your dog’s regular food, bowls, and a cooler of water, as some dogs find it difficult to adjust to abrupt changes in diet.
• A crate and a favourite toy from home will help your dog feel more secure in a strange place. • To ensure the safety of your dog when travelling, use a crate or an animal safety belt, available in pet supply stores. Airlines, trains, buses, boats, hotels, and motels have their own regulations about dogs. Make sure that you speak to your travel agent or directly to the people concerned well in advance of your trip. You can contact Dogs Victoria on 9788 2500 or visit www.dogsvictoria.org.au for further information.
BECOME A MEMBER OF DOGS VICTORIA
BECOME A MEMBER OF DOGS VICTORIA Once you purchase your puppy you will probably want to start getting involved in the many activities offered by Dogs Victoria.
Although some of the more active sports require dogs to be physically mature before participating, puppies as young as three months can be shown in dog shows. Many obedience clubs also offer puppy preschool courses and puppies can then Once you regular purchase your puppytraining you willonce probably begin obedience that want phase to start getting involved in the many activities offered is complete. Any of these types of activities are by Dogs great Victoria. for socialising your puppy and making sure it is used to being around other dogs and people. Although some of the more active sports require dogs to be physically maturebegins beforeto participating, Once your puppy grow into anpuppies adult you as young as three months can be showndog in dog shows. may want to get involved in other sports. Many obedience clubs also offer puppy preschool You will need to be a member of Dogs Victoria in courses puppies can then begin regular obedience orderand to compete in these events and earn titles training once that phase is complete. Any of these for your dog. types of activities are great for socialising your puppy and making sure it is used to being around other dogs and people.
To become a member of Dogs Victoria simply complete the application for new membership and submit to Dogs Victoria along with a photocopy of photo ID. Applications can be posted, faxed or scanned/emailed.
To become a member of Dogs Victoria simply complete the application for new membership and submit to Dogs Victoria along with a photocopy of photo ID. Applications can be posted, faxed or scanned/emailed. 9788 2500 office@dogsvictoria.org.au www.dogsvictoria.org.au
Once your puppy begins to grow into an adult you may want to get involved in other dog sports. You will need to be a member of Dogs Victoria in order to compete in these events and earn titles for your dog.
9788 2500 office@dogsvictoria.org.au www.dogsvictoria.org.au
03 9788 2500 www.dogsvictoria.org.au