TOP TEN SMARTEST DOG BREEDS

Dogs are known as man’s best friend, though we can’t always say that’s true. If you have ever owned a dog, you probably encountered those days where you have a slight bit of regret for getting the dog. From chewed up shoes to messy carpet to washing a smelly dog that only seems to smell worse after, dogs can be a pain.

Some say that the intelligence of a dog all depends on how well its owner trained it. Others believe it’s all about the genes…well, breed. While it may be a combination of both, here’s a look at the top 10 smartest dog breeds,  If your dog isn't on this list, don't despair because sometimes, having a dog with very high intelligence can have its drawbacks.  For example, if a highly intelligent dog is left at home alone all day, they can get bored and become destructive and/or neurotic.  On the other hand, a dog with limited intelligence can be left at home all day, and not even realize you’re gone until a few minutes before you arrive home!  

#10 Australian Cattle Dog

No you don’t have to live in Australia to encounter this dog. These dogs generally grow to be 30-50lbs. Australian Cattle Dog’s are known for their intelligence, especially when it comes to being able to train them to herd in cattle (this is where the name comes from if you didn’t catch it.) They have also been trained to be “biting” dogs. Don’t be scared, unless you’re training this dog to bite you. Australian Cattle Dogs are trained to bite cattle (not too hard) to keep them moving. These dogs have been herding cattle since the 19th century and today they still do just that. Australian Cattle Dogs are very active and love having a task at hand. Photo by pwcorgigirl

#9 Rottweiler

Better known as the “Rottie,” Rottweilers can be mis-trained to be vicious, mean dogs that can take down a human. Speaking of humans, Rottweilers can weigh as much as a petite sized female; about 110lbs in fact. This breed of dog originates out of Germany but was used in the Roman Empire. Rottweilers are sometimes used as police dogs because of the strong jaw and teeth that they have. Rotties can take you down! In the olden days, they were used to carry wood and other large heavy goods to markets and houses. If you’re looking to train a dog to protect you and all of your (precious) belongings, the Rottie is definitely the way to go. Photo by Bruno Luz

#8 Papillon

This breed of dog is probably one of the cutest and smartest you’ll find. Papillons are able to show that cute things can be smart too. This breed also proves that small things (brains) do come in small packages. Papillons can weigh up to 11lbs and can weigh as little as 3lbs. These dogs are very charming and have always been a symbol of elegance. During the Renaissance, these dogs were adored by royal courts and the aristocrats of the time. They always proved to be good watch dogs because of their keen sense of hearing. Make the slightest sound and the Papillon’s ears will be up faster than you can say the name. King Henry II is said to have spend crowns upon crowns on his own Papillons. Photo by michael_davies

#7 Labrador Retriever

This is one of the most intelligent as well as one of the most popular breeds of dog in the world. The Labrador Retriever is an amazing breed of dog that offer many different services. The breed originates from Newfoundland and was trained to hunt waterfowl. As time has passed, Labs have been introduced to more and more jobs. Many of these dogs are used in the police force as bomb sniffing or drug sniffing dogs. Any dog that can be trained to do this is most definitely smart. These dogs are also used as rescue dogs. Many are trained to help the disabled, especially the blind. Labs can be trained to lead a human around while ignoring any type of distraction. The Labrador Retriever is a loving, obedient, and patient dog that can be trained to do almost anything. Photo by suzalayne

#6 Shetland Sheepdog

Though not one of the most popular dogs around, the Shetland Sheepdog is a very smart dog. Some owners of this breed of dog claim that they are just as smart as a human is. Shelties originated out of Scotland. Sporting a furry two-layered coat and definitely not the toughest looking dog around, Shelties are used to herd sheep. Since the breed can be both big and small in size, some of these dogs are used to keep pests and smaller animals out of gardens. Shetland Sheepdog’s are generally very hyper, but they have a great sense of hearing. If anyone ever shows up at your door or a car pulls into the driveway, you can expect to hear a bark from this dog. Photo by Marie Schroder

#5 Doberman Pinscher

This breed of dog comes in right at the middle of the list. The Doberman Pinscher is another German breed to make the list. In the past, these dogs were trained to be police dogs, watch dogs, and guard dogs. In the 1800s, men were looking for a dog that was loving and loyal as well as tough and ferocious when necessary. This is exactly where the Doberman Pinscher fits in. Even though they can be trained to be ferocious, many of these dogs are very gentle and docile. Some have even been used in hospitals to help patients that are undergoing therapy. Slightly vicious by nature, you can expect that this breed will protect you. Photo by roy_mac_an_iarla

#4 Golden Retriever

Often confused with the Labrador Retriever, Golden Retrievers are also very popular dogs that seem to be perfect for a family. In the past up to today, these dogs are man’s companion, especially for those who hunt. This breed can be easily trained to find and bring back waterfowl or game that has been shot. The dog’s soft mouth allows it to bring back unharmed game to its owner. Aside from being a hunting dog, Golden Retrievers can be used as rescue dogs, drug sniffing dogs, and guide dogs. This breed is very patient, which makes it that much easier to train. If you ever find a dog sports competition online or on the television, you are sure to see a Golden Retriever competing. Photo by Ingrid0804

#3 German Shepherd

Rin Tin Tin! This is the one breed of dog that you can say actually looks tough and mean. Looks are most definitely deceiving because the German Shepherd is one of the most lovable breed of dog you will ever come across. Loving or not, these dogs can be trained to do things that humans can’t. Today, these dogs are usually trained to be police dogs, rescue dogs, and some are even able to work with the military. These dogs are so bright that the Army and Marines have allowed them to be used in overseas activity. German Shepherds are very obedient dogs as well as protective. In the past, German Shepherds were used as herd dogs but today they are used in more “higher up positions,” so to speak. The German Shepherd is one of the smartest dogs around. Photo by Setiritter

#2. Poodle

Surprised? You probably aren’t the only one. No your eyes aren’t going bad. The Poodle is number two on the list. Don’t let the fluffy, curly, white coat fool you. This breed of dog is absolutely brilliant. Though you have probably never seen it, Poodles are used as hunting dogs as well as watch and rescue dogs. The Poodle (sounds like puddle doesn’t it?) is also used as a water dog. Poodles come in all sizes, but even the Toy Poodle can be used to hunt birds. Poodles love to be around people and are very protective. Though this breed only weighs up to 8lbs, a mighty heart can come out of such a pretty looking dog. Photo by Jim Heid.

#1 Border Collie

Topping off the list is the Border Collie. This dog lives to work, literally. Though it may seem only us humans have a lifetime full of hard work, this breed of dog needs something to do to be happy. The Border Collie is used as a herding dog and has since grown to be used as a sporting dog as well. The breed is known for its agility, speed, and obedience. It is also known for it’s ability to learn new tricks quickly. These dogs love being able to work next to your side. Collies are especially great at dog sport competitions. You will generally see them competing in Flyball and disc games. Photo by meg price

Source: http://www.toptenz.net

CHOCOLATE AND DOG

Chocolate contains caffeine and theobromine, two different types of stimulants that affect the central nervous system and the heart muscle, as well asincreasing the frequency of urination. 

Symptoms of Poisoning 

If your 50-pound dog gets his paws on a single chocolate-chip cookie, it probably won't cause him serious problems.However, if he gobbles up more – a pan of brownies, say – he may develop vomiting or diarrhea. 

Once toxic levels are reached, the stimulants kick in, and this is when you really have to worry. Symptoms include:restlessness, hyperactivity, muscle twitching, increased urination and/or excessive panting. If your pet isn't treated,he could go into a seizure – possibly even die.

How Much Is Toxic?

The amount of chocolate that it takes to poison your pet depends on the type of chocolate he's eaten and hisweight. White chocolate has the least amount of stimulants and baking chocolate or cocoa beans have the highest.Here is a list of the most common sources of chocolate and the amount that leads to toxicity:

White Chocolate. Mild signs of toxicity can occur when 45 ounces per pound of body weight is ingested. Severe toxicity occurs when 90 ounces per pound of body weight in ingested. This means that a 20-pound dog would need to ingest at least 55 pounds of white chocolate to cause nervous system signs. A 10-pound cat would need to ingest 27 pounds. Yes, that is twenty seven pounds! White chocolate has very little real chocolate in it. Therefore, the levels of caffeine and theobromine are very low. Tremendous amounts of white chocolate need to be ingested in order to cause toxic signs from chocolate. It is highly unlikely that white chocolate ingestion will result in the toxic neurologic signs but, the severe gastrointestinal effects from a high fat food develop with much less white chocolate ingestion. 

Milk Chocolate. Mild signs of toxicity can occur when 0.7 ounces per pound of body weight is ingested. Severe signs occur when 2 ounces per pound of body weight is ingested. This means that a little less than one pound of milk chocolate can be toxic to the nervous system of a 20-pound dog. A 10-pound cat would need to ingest 1/2 pound.

Semi-Sweet Chocolate. Mild signs of toxicity can occur when 1/3 ounce per pound of body weight is ingested. Severe signs occur when 1 ounce per pound of body weight is ingested. This means that as little as 6 ounces of semi-sweet chocolate can be toxic to the nervous system of a 20-pound dog. A 10-pound cat would need to ingest 3 ounces.

Baking Chocolate. Mild signs of toxicity can occur when 0.1 ounce per pound of body weight is ingested. Severe signs occur when 0.3 ounce per pound of body weight is ingested. Two small one-ounce squares of baking chocolate can be toxic to a 20-pound dog. A 10-pound cat would need to ingest 1 ounce of baking chocolate. This type of chocolate has the highest concentration of caffeine and theobromine and very little needs to be ingested before signs of illness become apparent.

Even if your pet doesn't eat enough chocolate to induce toxicity, the candy's high fat content may cause him to vomit or have diarrhea at much smaller amounts than those shown. If that happens, watch him carefully. If his symptoms don't clear up within eight hours, call your veterinarian (if your pet is very small or young, call within four hours); aside from toxicity issues, you don't want the animal to dehydrate. Try to be as precise as you can about the type of chocolate the animal ate, how much he took and approximately when he ate it.

The sooner you get help, the better off your pet will be. If the animal is showing signs of toxicity, he has a good prognosis if he's treated within four to six hours of ingestion. The effects of the chocolate can linger for 12 to 36 hours, though, so your pet may require hospitalization. ( Source: http://www.petplace.com)

BUILD YOUR OWN DOG HOUSE

When building a dog house, remember that it is not the be-all-end-allfor your pup. Having a shelter does not necessarily mean shade -- depending on the materials used, a dog can overheat even more quickly in a dog house than out in your yard. And no matter how nice the doghouse, it's not a suitable round-the-clock home for a pet.  

Dog House Kits

Dog house kits start at around $100. When assembling one, you shouldn't need much beyond a hammer or screwdriver. Most kits include the floor, walls and roof, completely pre-drilled with instructions [source: Kit Guy]. It should also include the nails and other assorted hardware, though depending on the kit you may need to purchase insulation, paint, and a pad, pillow or mat for your dog to lie on.

When selecting a dog house, your biggest consideration -- even beyond the pros and cons of housing your pup in a barn versus a bungalow -- is the size. If you love a style for your German shepherd's house but can only find it in small and medium, look for a bigger model. Similar to a dog crate, your dog house should be large enough for your pet to get in fully, turn around, and lie down. By the same token, however, it shouldn't be too big. Pets aren't like people -- a Chihuahua won't appreciate all the space of an extra-large dog mansion. In that case, a small dog kit will do fine.

Custom Dog House

If you are looking for a unique dog house, you can always build one yourself from scratch. Of course, this type of building requires the most work -- you have to know carpentry in order to draw up plans, select all of the building materials, cut them to fit and then assemble the entire thing. It's the most work, but then you can be sure no one has a dog house quite like yours. You can also contract personal builders who will build a dog house to your specifications.

Most custom dog houses, however, actually work similarly to the dog kits discussed on the previous page. In general, you can select and slightly modify the design you like based on what the company has. You can then choose from different options to create a customized exterior [source: America's Pet Store]. Sometimes they can even match your own house. Custom houses such as these will usually come ready to assemble, with all of the cut materials and hardware provided. The higher-end custom dog houses can come already assembled, delivered to you via truck.

If you're starting from scratch or using a custom kit that allows you to choose your materials, you'll want to know exactly what works and what doesn't. "Lightweight" can sound good, but it might not be sturdy enough to hold up to your dog, especially if it is a chewer.

Choosing Dog House Materials

You can use just about any material to make a dog house, but some will work better depending on your climate and your dog's temperament. The most common materials for dog houses are either wood or plastic.

Wood is generally used the most, and you'll find most instructions use lumber in their examples. This is because wood is inexpensive and pretty easy to work with. Who hasn't made a simple wooden birdhouse or napkin holder? Wood is also easier to cut and can be used in the most climates. Cedar dog houses are best in areas that are wetter with high humidity [source: Wright].

Plastic can be a great alternative if you're looking for something lightweight and waterproof -- a huge advantage for an outside home. Plastic also cannot be destroyed by termites like wood can, but in both plastic and wood, select a sturdy material if your dog is a chewer.

Depending on where you live and what kind of materials you are using, you may also need to include insulation for your dog house. This is important not only in cold areas but also in hot ones -- insulation can keep your dogs from overheating. You can buy barriers and layers of insulation to use in the dog house or use pre-insulated panels [source: House of Hammocks].

How to Choose the Right Size of House for Your Dog

Important Dog House Tips

• Fill doghouses with hay or cedar chips in the winter so the dog will have a warm bed. (Cedar chips are preferable to hay because they are less likely to rot and don't contain mites.) If you use hay and it gets wet and soggy, spread it in the sun on a sunny day to dry it out.
• Doghouses should be large enough for the dog to stand up and turn around comfortably, but small enough to retain the dog's body heat.
• Wooden doghouses should be raised a few inches off of the ground to prevent rotting and keep out rain. Flat concrete blocks are an easy way to raise a doghouse.
• To protect the dog from winter cold, the door should be covered with a plastic flap. You can use a car mat, a piece of plastic carpet runner (you can buy this by the foot at home improvement stores), or even a piece of carpet.
• Dogs enjoy having towels and blankets to sleep on, just like we do. Remember to wash them every few weeks so they don't get stiff with dirt.
• A doghouse isn't the same thing as shade. The inside of a doghouse gets mighty hot in summer! Provide shade by planting trees or hanging a tarp the dog can get under. Be sure to provide plenty of water in summer, too, and a baby pool filled with water for cooling off.

Source: http://home.howstuffworks.com http://www.unchainyourdog.org

TALKING DOG

Did you ever know that Siberian Husky can talk? I myself own two Husky named Albra and Yuma, and apparently they barely speak. They speak with their language, off course, like "ouwow uwow uwoooou......" (yea it really sounds like that), which I don't understand. Anyway, i found it quite cute so I shared the video of Mishka, the talking husky. (Source: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qXo3NFqkaRM)

Oh and these are my lovely Husky Albra and Yuma ;D

HOW TO CALM A HYPER DOG

By Cesar Millan

Having a hyper dog is a dog problem with many possible causes and solutions. Many hyper dog problems stem from boredom and a lack of stimulation. So in order to address the dog problem, you have to assess the way you are interacting with your dog and the kind of activity your dog gets on a daily basis.

Here are some simple techniques you can try at home to work to calm your hyperactivedog.

Ignore the hyper dog behavior.

Dogs seek attention from you. By paying attention to the hyper dog during outbursts, you’re reinforcing the very dog problem behavior that you're trying to eliminate. The next time your dog is jumping or nipping at you in an overexcited way, give it a try -- no touch, no talk, no eye contact -- and see how you fare. You might be surprised how quickly the dog settles down.

Give your dog a job.

Having a task to focus on can help tremendously. Hyperactivity in dogs can come from psychological needs as easily as it can from physical needs. By giving your dog a job to do, you are removing his hyperactive dog behavior and are redirecting his energy elsewhere. For instance, having your dog wear a dog backpack with extra weight will keep your dog focused on carrying instead of getting distracted by squirrels and other things.

Go for a dog walk to redirect dog's high energy.

If your dog has a lot of built-up energy, a really vigorous dog walk is another excellent way to redirect it where YOU want it to go. Once you’ve burned that extra energy away, your dog should be pleasantly exhausted and too tuckered out to jump and nip. Without that frustration, he’ll find it much easier to relax.

Check your own energy.

Your dog is your mirror. Any energy you project, he will reflect back. Are you in a calm assertive state of mind? Are you projecting a confident pack leader energy? Are you stressing out over an argument, or burdened with the worries of the workweek? Nervous or anxious moods can translate into nervous or anxious body language or tones of voice, and can affect the energy of your dog. So be the pack leader and stay in tune with your energy.

Try out aromatherapy.

Don’t forget that dogs experience the world primarily by scent! Just as the smell of lavender is said to relax human beings, a soothing smell can also have a very calming effect on your pet. Talk to your veterinarian or consult a holistic professional to find out what smells may work for your dog and which dispersal methods are the safest for him.

Source: http://www.cesarsway.com