Dogs as Accessories

Dogs being used as accessories is not a new idea by any means. Aristocracy often used dogs as a way to display their wealth and power. The concept was that the head of the household was rich enough to feed another, useless member, of the family. I'm talking about the dogs that were "just pets" or accessories, not the dogs used in hunting or herding. The French fell in love with the German "poedel" or poodle, and hence many thought its name was French Poodle. The different clips became like fashion beacons.

Nowadays, though, dogs are dressed and many treated as people! True, the Chihuahua will be cold in Michigan's unforgiving winter period, but why get a Chihuahua to live in Michigan in the first place? These dogs first lived in Mexico, and they belong in warm weather. Same idea applies to Siberian Huskies and Alaskan Malamutes. These dogs are well adapted to snow and the cold. To them summers in Florida must seem like a very realistic version of hell.

You see, climate is not the only factor. The latest pooch in Chanel is not necessarily cold but its owner certainly is. A dog is a living, breathing animal who deserves respect and to be treated as it's supposed to be treated. As it needs to be treated. As a result, many dogs are confused. They are treated like people, but they don't have the same capabilities, mind and neither do they have to. This is why we love them. Dogs have a unique set of abilities that are worth appreciating. Their noses are much keener than ours. Their depth of perception is greater than ours. Their actual vision, however, is inferior -- at least during the day. They walk on all fours, think in terms of smell translated into pictures, and have a limited, albeit impressive, understanding of our language. Their loyalty, most people who own dogs will tell you, is unparallelled in the human world. And their joie de vivre is infectuous.

Let's treat the dogs in our lives as what they are -- dogs. To treat them as more than dogs implies that being a dog is not good enough for us. But true dog lovers love their dogs as what they are -- members of the canid species. They don't need to be "promoted" to our human status, because they're fine just the way they are. In fact, that's how we expand our limited selves and discover the joy and mystery of interacting with another species. If you're not ready for that, get a human companion instead.

Photo courtesy of Josefuteimo

Field Work

A few days ago, I returned from a family vacation in Cape Cod, Massachussets. It's a beautiful set of small towns bordered by breathtaking miles of coast, engulfed by trees of many colors, and dotted with picturesque old houses and scenic roads. At the same time, I was lucky enough to be able to meet specimens of the dog breed I was researching as well. I call this the field work of my research time, as it's not information gathered from a book or interview, but in the real world.

I'm not going to mention the breed I'm looking into, as I believe that everyone has their own personal preferences, taste and personality when it comes to picking out breeds that match them. I don't want to interfere with that at all. I'm an expert when it comes to picking out a breed for me, just like you are in picking out a breed for yourself.

That said, after countless hours researching, reading, interviewing, e-mailing and perusing images, I was quiet and elated at seeing the creatures in real life. They are not a common breed, and these were the first dogs of its kind I had ever seen. Were they everything I had imagined? Yes and no. Yes, they have a lovely expression and strong built. No, they are more endearing, sweeter, and milder in temperament than I could have imagined. Then again, that's thanks to the work of a true professional breeder.

After having been delighted on paper and screen, I can say that I can really see myself owning this type of dog. I'm committed to providing the kind of home that he/she would thrive in, with love, exercise, care, food and mental stimulation. My search for the right breed for this time of my life is over.

Photo courtesy of Jaxxon

Back to School

Now that kids are back to school around the country, I would like to issue a gentle reminder not to neglect our pets. During the summer Rover was riding bikes, playing tag and football, maybe he was even taken for a frequent swim. It can be hard on a dog after long, hot, lazy days with his favorite pals to all of a sudden be cast aside as the days get shorter with school, then homework. Make it a point to give them an extra pat, a 5-minute training reinforcement, a special treat now and then, another 5-minute walk or play. Your kids can get involved by taking him for a walk every evening. With all this talk about childhood obesity, children can get exercise and spend time with a devoted friend at the same time. It doesn't have to take that long. They can also snuggle up with their best buddies as they're working on their homework.

Popular across states now, dogs come in to school and sit patiently while struggling readers read them a book or two. Your children may improve their reading skills by reading to their dog as well, as long as your dog likes to sit next to them for a considerable amount of time. Dogs don't judge and can be a wonderful four-footed therapists for school anxiety and other everyday problems. It will benefit them, you and your kids. Try it.

Photo by GirlReporter

Why write about dogs?

Some of you may wonder: why is she writing about dogs? The truth is, I've spent most of my life with dogs. When I don't have a dog (like now), I miss having a dog in my life.

Before I got my own dog right after I got married, I researched the Internet, read breed books and spent time talking to dog trainers, breeders, dog rescues and handlers and attended a few dog shows. When I got my puppy, a spunky Sheltie, I was on cloud nine. We did puppy kindergarten and we got briefly involved in agility. Sadly, five years later my beautiful dog passed away.

It's been about a year and a half since, and about three months ago I started to get the itch again -- to add a dog to our family. This time, however, my husband and I have a three-year-old son. I'll take you through my renewed research (much has changed since I researched six-seven years ago!) and help you find the right dog for you. If you already own a dog, you'll find tips and book recommendations. I'm a big believer in the informed consumer. I'll also keep you posted on my journey in finding the right pet for our family.

The World Has Lost a Great Man

Besides his infectious enthusiasm and simple manner, Steve Irwin was a great conservationist who had the ability to appeal to mass audiences. He made wild animals seem accessible to us, to seem beautiful. He made us appreciate them. Many children loved his style and grew up with his programs. The world will miss him. The Crocodile Hunter was one of a kind.

I still remember the episodes we used to watch years back with him, his wife Terri and Sui the dog -- always the faithful, fearless companion.

Great Dog Training Book!

Recently I read a simple, positive book on dog training. It's called "Outwitting Dogs" by Terry Ryan. Highly recommended for novices and veteran dog owners alike.

The Shake

The Shake is a list of recent or upcoming books on, about or involving dogs. From visual treats to laugh-our-loud anecdotes, to inspiring stories to tear-jerkers, catch these titles to gain a new appreciation of the bond between dogs and humans. All titles are available from Amazon.com. Photo courtesy of Eric Juttner

1. Walking in Circles Before Lying Down: A Novel by Merrill Markoe
2. For the Love of a Dog: Understanding Emotion in You and Your Best Friend by Patricia McConnell (to be released August 29)
3. Katz on Dogs: A Commonsense Guide to Training and Living with Dogs by Jon Katz (new release out September 26)
4. Shelter Dogs by Traer Scott (to be released September 30)
5. A Three Dog Life by Abigail Thomas (to be released September 5)
6. Best in Show: The Dog in Art from the Renaissance to Today by Peter Bowron, Carolyn Rose Rebbert, Robert Rosenblum, and William Secord
7. A Dog's Guide to Life: Lessons from "Moose" by Jack Cotton and Deb Hoeffner
8. Marley & Me: Life and Love with the World's Worst Dog by John Grogan
9. From Baghdad, With Love: A Marine, the War, and a Dog Named Lava by Jay Kopelman, Melinda Roth
10. Pup Parenting: A Guide to Raising a Happy, Well-Trained Dog by Lynn Lott, Jane Nelsen and Therry Jay
11. Shaggy Dogs Story by Ron Finley
12. My Smart Puppy (TM): Fun, Effective, and Easy Puppy Training by Brian Kilcommons and Sarah Wilson (to be released October 16)
13. Why Do Dogs Drink Out of the Toilet?: 101 of the Most Perplexing Questions Answered About Canine Conundrums, Medical Mysteries and Befuddling Behaviors by Marty Becker, Gina Spadafori
14. Whole Pet Diet: Eight Weeks to Great Health for Dogs And Cats by Andi Brown
15. You Had Me at Bow Wow: A Book of Dog Cartoons by New Yorker Cartoonist Jack Zeigler (to be released September 1)