Big Paw Blog

Darling and delightful the Dachshund is one of the most popular breeds in America. Those who are lucky enough to be owned by this little dog find them to be loyal, loving, fierce protectors, and the funniest clowns in all of dogdom. Beautiful and even elegant with its smooth body lines, these little dogs never cease to delight all who come under their spell.

As at home in the 10th floor apartment as it is on the farm, the dachshund (badger dog) was originally bred in Germany for hunting, what else, but badgers. Their tenacious persistence and relentless pursuit of their prey, along with their long, low bodies, make them perfect for following the badger right into the animal's den. Their strong jaws can snap shut on a badger's snout, and hold on, never letting go, until the animal has ceased its struggle, and it is bagged by the farmer or hunter. Dachshunds have even been known to die in the tunnel, always holding onto its prey. Its a pretty chilling thought for those of us who love the little dachshund.

Dachshunds come in two sizes: miniature, under 12 pounds, and standard, over 12 pounds. Both sizes compete in the show ring with great distinction. A dachshund's coat can come in smooth, rough, or long hair, and a variety of colors. Each is just as adorable as the other. Beautiful and bright, a dachshund is full of surprises. Their intelligence is such, that it is not unusual, in the show ring, for the breed to gobble a snack, in passing, should a cookie or ice cream be within reach, without missing a step.

The dachshund is a scent-hound, whose sense of smell is so sensitive that it must never be kept off of the leash. If so, the dachshund will catch a smell and follow it forever, often becoming lost or hit by a car.

Dachshunds, especially the male, can be stubborn in house training. The males are markers, and they will have their territory "marked out," no matter how many times they are crate trained. As a result dachshunds are often found in shelters, because the owner has grown tired of the failure to train. Thankfully there are numerous dachshund rescue groups, that seek out new owners who have more patience and persistence in training.

With shiny coat and black shoe-button eyes, the dachshund is irresistible as it meets its owner's gaze, often making one think he has the wisdom of the ages in his glance. Dachshunds do have back problems, so they should be restrained from jumping up on things, or down from beds and sofas. This is second nature for the dachshund, so it is a difficult thing to train.

Proper weight is paramount. Always feed your dachshund the best dry dog food that you can afford, and only in amounts recommended by the veterinarian. The dachshund in the picture is seven years old, and he has had two back surgeries. He has been kept at a healthy weight, and his low body fat is one of the reasons he has come through so beautifully. He walks, runs, and plays, and due to his good health he will, no doubt, have many more years of joy to share with his owner.

I cannot stress enough, do not over-feed your dachshund! A dachshund will eat until he bursts. Keep him on a premium, healthy diet, and you with be thrilled to have your dachshund bless your life for many years to come. Jaye Lewis

Many people who would never consider allowing their dogs to run loose have no similar compunction when it comes to the felines in their lives. Even though many of us grew up with the image of the old tomcat roaming the neighborhood, there are many good reasons for keeping those cats in the house.

The number one reason for keeping a cat indoors, of course, is safety. The safety of the cat itself and the safety of other neighborhood pets and wildlife depend on keeping that cat indoors. Roaming cats can do a great deal of damage to local wildlife, and of course dogs, cars and mean people can do lots of damage to the cat. Cats who live indoors tend to be much healthier, and to live much longer lives, than their outdoor counterparts.

Outdoor cats may also come into contact with all sorts of diseases to which indoor cats are never exposed. Even if the cat is vaccinated, infection can occur, and an infected cat may pass illness on to other household pets, or even to the family. In addition, cats that stay indoors can be more easily monitored for early signs of illness.

And of course keeping that cat indoors makes it that much more a part of the family. Cats are wonderful pets, and allowing them to share our homes, our lives and our hearts, allows us to get the most from the relationship. Even cats that are at first difficult to keep indoors can learn to enjoy the easy life on the couch, so do your favorite feline a favor and keep him on your side of the front door.


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As a pet owner, you need to be aware of what your pets may and may not eat. A lot of pet owners are unaware of the potential dangers lurking in the produce section of the grocery. Certain seasonal fruits can be harmful, and potentially fatal, to your pets.

Citrus is a wonderfully refreshing fruit for people, but did you know that the peels, fruit and seeds can be harmful to your pets? Citric acid, limonin and other volatile oils are found in lemons, limes, oranges and grapefruits. They can lead to gastrointestinal irritation, vomiting and diarrhea. Be sure to wash your hands after handling such fruit, and don't feed them to your pets.

Apples, cherries, peaches, apricots, and other pitted fruits are also a wonderful treat for people, but we don't eat the stems, leaves or seeds. While the fruit meat may be a treat for your pets, the other parts can cause serious issues. Pitted fruits contain cyanogenic glycosides in the stems, leaves and seeds. Allowing your pet to consume them can lead to cyanide poisoning. Symptoms can include loss of appetite, vomiting, weakness, difficulty breathing, hyperventilation, shock, and even death. The more severe effects are typically seen in grazing animals after very large amounts have been ingested.

As a pet owner it's always a good idea to be aware of plants that may be available to your pets, and to make sure that potentially hazardous species are not accessible to your pets.


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Dogs of all ages love to play, and what better way to spend quality time with your dog than by playing games? Although most dogs don’t mind venturing out into the rain or snow, dog owners would usually rather stay indoors when the weather isn’t suitable for outdoor play. There are a number of fun indoor games you can play with your dog, and more than likely you’ll have just as much fun with your dog while playing the following indoor games.

Find the Treat

It’s common knowledge that dogs love treats, but did you know that dogs searching for them? This game is highly enjoyable for dogs because tasty treats are the prize. You’ll find out how keen your dog’s sense of smell is when he sniffs out treats you hide for him to find.

Teach your dog to search for treats by showing him a treat and placing it beneath a piece of furniture, a rug, or any other accessible hiding place. Let your dog see where you’ve put the first treat, and encourage him to get it. Hide the next treat without showing him where you’ve put it, and enthusiastically tell him to find the treat. It may take him awhile to catch on, but in time, he’ll learn your hiding places and he’ll enjoy seeking out his tasty rewards.

Wrestling

Larger dogs love to wrestle, and if you want to have fun with your dog indoors, get down on the floor and enjoy a friendly wrestling match. Not only will your dog have a good time, but also you’ll burn some calories in the process. If the wrestling match ever starts to become too aggressive, calm it down a bit and always stay in control of the game. Make sure your dog realizes this gentle wrestling match is just for fun.

Softball Fetch

Dogs require exercise all year long, and indoor activities can be just as beneficial as outdoor activities. Dogs and their owners usually play fetch outdoors, but a game of indoor fetch can be just as fun. Instead of using hard tennis balls, consider buying softer rubber balls made especially for dogs. They’re a safer alternative to tennis balls since they aren’t as rigid, and they don’t have fabric covers that present a choking hazard.

Hide and Seek

A regular game of hide and seek can be one of the most enjoyable indoor activities you can play with your dog. Begin a game of hide and seek by hiding around a corner, and playfully jump out at your dog when he investigates what you’re doing. Gain the assistance of a family member, and have someone hold the dog’s collar while you hide somewhere else. Before the dog enters the room, call his name, and wait for him to begin looking for you. This fun and exciting activity will definitely become a favorite indoor game that you and your dog will look forward to playing anytime of the year.


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One of the largest of all domestic cat breeds, the Maine Coon is certainly no shrinking violet. This large and muscular cat has long been held in high regard as an excellent mouser, and the farmers of Maine greatly loved this strong and sturdy cat. The word quickly spread, and today the Maine Coon is beloved as much for its charming personality, high intelligence and good looks as for its ability to rid a home of mice.

The Maine Coon is also one of the most kid friendly of all breeds, and they generally get along superbly with dogs and other pets. These qualities have made the Maine Coon one of the most popular of all breeds, and they are always a favorite, both in the show ring and with the general public.

The Maine Coon is a large and sturdy breed, with a beautiful coat and wonderful patterns. The laid back nature and gentle disposition of the breed make it a wonderful lap cat as well as a trusted companion for children and adults alike. Those cat lovers who are looking for a substantial large cat should definitely give the Maine Coon a look.


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