A watchdog is a dog that is trained to alert their owners or caretakers when there is an intruder or potential threat, typically by barking loudly. They are typically passive and are not trained to actively attack an intruder. They are usually kept indoors as family pets and do not require extensive training.
A guard dog, on the other hand, is trained to attack and subdue an intruder. They are typically larger, more powerful breeds like German Shepherds or Rottweilers, and require extensive training in obedience and protection. They are used in a variety of settings, from law enforcement to personal protection for high-risk individuals or properties. They are usually kept outdoors and require special care and training to be safe and effective.
Livestock Guardian Dogs: The Protectors of the Flock
Livestock guardian dogs are an ancient breed of working dogs that have been used for centuries to protect livestock from predators. These dogs are intelligent, independent, and fiercely loyal to their charges. They are bred to guard sheep and other livestock from predators such as wolves, coyotes, and bears. The primary function of the livestock guardian dog is to stay with and protect the flock. They are not herding dogs and do not drive or move the flock in any way.
Livestock guardian dogs come in many different breeds, each with its unique characteristics. The most common breeds used for livestock guarding include the Great Pyrenees, Anatolian Shepherd, Kuvasz, Maremma Sheepdog, and Tibetan Mastiff. These breeds are all large, powerful, and protective.
The livestock guardian dog's primary function is to protect the flock from predators. They are territorial animals that will defend their charges against any perceived threat. As a result, they will bark loudly and fiercely at anything that they perceive as a threat. This behavior can sometimes be mistaken for aggression, but it is merely an expression of their protective nature.
The Livestock guardian dogs are not aggressive towards humans, and they are usually friendly towards the people they see every day. Given their size and strength, they can be intimidating to strangers, and this can be an advantage for the farmer or rancher. These dogs are often used as a deterrent against thieves or trespassers.
Other than their protective nature, these dogs are also low-maintenance animals. They do not require regular grooming or exercise. They are independent animals that will spend most of their time patrolling their territory, ensuring that nothing harms their charges.
Livestock guardian dogs have proved to be quite effective in protecting livestock from predators. Although their methods of protection may seem aggressive, they are the best way to ensure the safety of the flock. They are a valuable asset to farmers and ranchers who depend on their livestock for their livelihood.
In conclusion, the Livestock Guardian Dogs are the protectors of the flock. They are smart, protective, and fiercely loyal to their charges. They are not only effective in protecting livestock from predators, but they are also friendly and low-maintenance animals. They are the perfect partners for farmers and ranchers who depend on their livestock for their livelihood. These dogs are a testament to the idea that nothing beats the value of a loyal, hardworking animal.
Full Disclaimer: I did not write this article. If you have read all this way to the bottom you will be surprised that all I did was simply ask the AI tool ChatGPT to "Write me and article about the Livestock Guardian Dogs" I was amazed at how accurate it came out. This article took the AI computer about 15 seconds to produce. Times are changing.
An 81-year-old man died after being attacked by two dogs in San Antonio, Texas, and a suspect has been arrested in the incident, police say.
The man and a female companion, 74, were attacked Friday afternoon when they got out of their car in front of a relative’s home, officials said. The dogs also injured one of the relatives and bit a first responder who tried to pull the animals off the couple, authorities said. Read more...
This video explains how to identify hip dysplasia in our dogs and further articles on molosserdogs offer some advice on the use of vitamin c to minimize the effects.
Disclosure - I did not write this article and can't remember the source of it. If you know please post a comment so I can give proper credit. Also if you know of a holistic remedy that is not mentioned in this article please comment so that we can add it to the list.
Aloe Vera gel or juice. An excellent detoxifier and cleaner of the digestive tract and urinary system. Use it for any illness or general "not feeling well" (vomiting, diarrhea, etc.)-- 1/2 tsp. of juice three times a day. Even better, combine it with liquid chlorophyll. Also use aloe for skin conditions and cuts, mixing two ounces of gel with calendula and vitamin E oil and rubbing it on as an external antiseptic and soothing healer. Finally, use aloe for ear problems, mixing two ounces of juice or gel with a teaspoon of hydrogen peroxide (food grade) and massaging it into the ear. Make sure the brand you buy is 99% (or more) PURE, preferably organic, and preserved with citric acid or ascorbic acid (vitamin C). Don't buy a brand preserved with benzoic acid or sodium benzoate. Don't use aloe if your pet is pregnant.
Apple cider vinegar. Raw apple cider vinegar is a wonderful daily tonic that boosts the immune system and fights bacteria. It can heal infections of the urinary tract and kidneys. It balances electrolytes and enzymes and adds minerals. Truly a miracle food...and so inexpensive and simple to use. Add raw apple cider vinegar to your dog’s water bowl - about 1/2 teaspoon per pint of water. If the dog won't drink it at first, add a little raw honey to sweeten the taste, and gradually phase out the honey. Make sure you buy ONLY the raw, unpasteurized, dark golden variety of ACV that has cloudy "stringy" things floating in it. Called "Mother of Vinegar", they contain the bulk of the healing nutrients. Don't buy distilled, light amber, or white vinegar. These are fine for cleaning, but useless for healing.
Aspirin. Aspirin shouldn't be given for many days or weeks at a time, because it can irritate the stomach, but it works very well for relieving short-term discomfort. We use the orange children's aspirin tablets, which come in tiny 80-mg tablets and break easily. At the standard dose of 5 mg per pound of dog, that works out to 15 mg for a three-pound Chi, 20 mg for a four-pound dog, 25 mg for a five-pound dog. So for all those weights, we give one-quarter of a tablet, which is 20 mg. Close enough. For extreme discomfort, such as right after spaying, we give a half-tablet for the first two doses only. Aspirin doses are given to dogs 12 hours apart, NEVER four to six hours as with humans. NEVER give acetaminophen (such as Tylenol) or ibuprofen. We don't like prescription pain relievers from the vet (except for extreme or prolonged pain) because they make Chihuahuas dopey and confused.
Baby food. We always keep a jar of Gerber's in the cupboard because most sick pets will lick at chicken or turkey baby food. We warm a spoonful for just two or three seconds in the microwave -- don't scald it. Add some raw honey - in fact, warm baby food is the perfect base for mixing in a pinch of many healthy foods: liquid chlorophyll, yogurt, apple cider vinegar, slippery elm, aloe vera, vitamin C, vitamin E, and bran, to name a few.
Benadryl. For allergic swelling after a bee sting, we give 1/2 mg of Children's Benadryl per pound of Chihuahua. But no more than 3 doses total, spaced eight hours apart.
Bran. Fiber helps relieve constipation and dry stools by allowing the stools to soak up additional moisture and thus move more easily. We have had only one dog with a single case of constipation, and it cleared right up with 1/2 tsp. of oat bran added to each meal. We prefer using bran rather than mineral oil.
Calendula. A powerful healing herb for skin conditions and cuts. We buy it as an ointment, mix it with aloe vera and vitamin E oil, and rub it on as an external antiseptic and soothing healer.
Elastic bandage. The soft, flexible, cloth kind that sticks to itself, for wrapping sprains and other injuries.
Fasting. Not exactly an "item", but very important to know about, nevertheless. When your pet is ill, s/he should not have to spend her energy digesting food. Fasting gives the body a chance to break down toxins and purge them. For two or three days, stop feeding regular meals. Give only tiny amounts of chicken/turkey baby food and vegetable broth, plus liquid healing foods such as raw honey, liquid chlorophyll, apple cider vinegar, slippery elm, and aloe vera, and tummy teas. Gradually add steamed veggies, then raw minced/pulped veggies, then cooked rice, then cottage cheese and meat, and so on, until your pet is back on its regular diet of healthy foods.
Garlic. This miracle food builds the immune system and is an herbal antibiotic, virtually unbeatable at preventing and fighting infection (both viruses and bacteria). It also helps to expel puppy roundworms by cleaning out the digestive tract, enabling the body to expel the worms with the mucus. Grate 1/2 small clove and mix it into meals two or three times a week as a general immune builder. For actual or potential infections (such as after surgery, cuts, wounds, etc.), add it to every meal. If you prefer, you can use garlic powder instead -- but not kitchen garlic salt or other cooking preparations, which are stale, processed, and/or mixed with unwanted additives. ✅ verified by Admin
Hydrogen peroxide 3%. To make your pet throw up after eating something it shouldn't, give 10 ml. Give a second dose 10 minutes later if necessary. Also valuable as a pesticide wash and bacteria killer, so you can use it as a rinse on raw meat, meaty bones, and/or raw veggies (unless they're organic) before feeding. ✅ verified by eliteguardianpresa
Kopectate. For diarrhea, if slippery elm (see below) isn't working, we give 1 ml per pound of Chihuahua, every 2 hours.
Liquid chlorophyll. Another excellent detoxifier and antiseptic for the internal organs, especially the digestive tract and bloodstream. Use it internally for any illness, especially a digestive problem -- 1/2 tsp. three times a day. It combines very well with aloe vera (see above). Liquid chlorophyll is also used by holistic vets to balance blood sugar levels in some pets with diabetes or chronic hypoglycemia.
Medicine dropper. With markings in ml's and cc's. For giving liquids.
Mineral oil. 1/2 tsp. can help dry stools pass more easily, but it is very easy for an animal to become dependent on it, so don't use it for more than a few days.
Nutrical or Nutristat. A high-calorie, high-sugar supplement to keep blood sugar and energy levels up when your pet is ill or not eating well. We give a finger full every couple of hours. If the animal doesn't feel up to licking it, we wipe it onto the roof of its mouth, which stimulates her licking and swallowing reflex.
Raw honey. Raw unpasteurized honey from the health food store (not processed or pasteurized from the supermarket) is one of the oldest and most reliable healing foods. It fights bacteria, builds the immune system, and provides energy. Give a fingertip of honey every couple of hours for almost any illness or general "not feeling well". If your pet won't lick it, just wipe it onto the roof of her mouth to stimulate her licking and swallowing reflex.
Ressue Remedy. These homeopathic drops from your health food store can reduce anxiety. Give 2 to 4 drops on the tongue before and during stressful trips to the vet, for car or plane rides if your pet is prone to motion sickness, or before and after any stressful experience. (Thunder Storms)
Slippery elm. An excellent herb for the digestive tract. For diarrhea, we mix 1/2 tsp. of slippery elm powder with raw honey and give three or four times a day. You can also buy slippery elm syrup, which doesn't need mixing.
Thermometer (rectal). Digital types are easiest to read. Typical Chihuahua temperatures are 100.5 to 103 degrees. Make sure you take her temperature when she is well, so you will have something to compare to when you suspect she is ill.
Tummy teas. Chamomile, ginger, and peppermint are outstanding herbs for an upset stomach or general "not feeling well". We buy them as dried teas, add boiling water, let steep for 5 to 10 minutes, and let cool. We draw 3 cc into a feeding syringe and gently feed it into the Chihuahua's mouth every few hours.
Tweezers. For pulling out ticks, slivers, or thorns.
Vitamin C powder. Vitamin C is an incredibly powerful builder of the immune system and joints. It can prevent and help cure so many illnesses and disorders that it has a permanent spot in our cupboard. Dogs do not produce nearly enough of this essential vitamin themselves, and the vitamin C added to kibble and canned diets is cheap, synthetic, and far too little to do any good. We give vitamin C as a daily supplement and increase it whenever an illness such as a skin condition, virus, arthritis, joint problem, etc. comes along. We recommend the Ester C powdered brand because it is the most digestible. There's NO fear of overdose as extra vitamin C is simply "peed out" -- but if you give too much too fast you'll see loose stools. Simply cut back and build more slowly to let your pet's system get used to this healthy stuff. Start with 100 mg morning and evening, and build to 250 mg, increasing to 350-500 mg when needed, and if your dog's system can do it without loose stools.
Vitamin E. Another outstanding builder of the immune system. We use the powdered form because it is so easy to measure out and mix into food. We give 50 to 100 IU daily (about 1/8 tsp. of powder), and increase to 100-200 IU during illness. For skin conditions and cuts, vitamin E oil is an excellent antiseptic and soothing healer, especially when combined with aloe vera and calendula. Always make sure you buy vitamin E with d-alpha tocopherols — NOT dL-alpha or mixed tocopherols, which are not natural.
Yogurt. Yogurt is valuable because it contains "friendly" bacteria which are extremely important for digestion. We mix it into meals every couple of days. Whenever we're forced to give antibiotics for serious infection, we increase the yogurt, because antibiotics kill helpful (as well as harmful) bacteria. To replace these helpful bacteria, we add 1/2 tsp. of plain yogurt to each meal. ✅ verified by Admin
This information is not presented with the intention of diagnosing or prescribing, but is offered only as information for use in maintaining and promoting health in cooperation, when necessary, with a veterinarian. We are not veterinarians and cannot assume responsibility for use of this information in lieu of a veterinarian's services. This is simply what we do or what we would do with our own pets. If your pet is ill, seek assistance from a veterinarian, preferably one who understands the holistic approach.
Remedy
Dose
Indication
Apple Cider Vinegar (non-pasteurized, non-filtered, organic - Omega Nutrition)
One tsp per pint water
Controls most gram-negative and yeast problems without medications, turn papillomas white.
Echinacea or Goldenseal
(alcohol-free) alone or together in lactulose
Mix 5 drops each of human dilution to 1/2 oz lactulose: 1 drop per 100 g BW PO q12h
For immune stimulation and antiviral antibacterial use; short-term use, in the case of goldenseal (5 days).
Dandelion Root or MilkThistle in Lactulose
Mix 5 drops in 1/2 oz lactulose: 1 drop per 100 g BW PO q12h
For detoxification and stimulation of liver; improves circulation, restores gastric balance after vomiting.
Oil (flax, sesame, evening primrose or borage - Omega Nutrition); Chia Seed (organic)
1/2 tsp per 1000 g BW (3 drops / 100 g) over food; 1 tsp per 100 g BW
For birds that may show fatty acid deficiency such as failure to hold or gain weight, dull feathers, flaky skin (and have been on HBD's High Potency for less than a year)
Complex Carbohydrate
To reduce fat in diet. Excellent for intensive care.
Please comment to add your own home remedies.
If you have a scientific mind you can read get a lot from this article.
Diet has a key role in the homeostasis of the gut microenvironment, influencing the microbiome, the gut barrier, host immunity and gut physiology. Yet, there is little information on the role of early diet in the onset of inflammatory gastrointestinal disorders later in life, especially in dogs. Therefore, the aim of the present cross-sectional, epidemiological study with longitudinal data, was to explore associations of companion dogs’ early life diet style and food items with owner-reported chronic enteropathy (CE) incidence in later life. Food frequency questionnaire data from Finnish companion dogs was analyzed using principal component analysis and logistic regression.
We found that feeding a non-processed meat-based diet and giving the dog human meal leftovers and table scraps during puppyhood (2–6 months) and adolescence (6–18 months) were protective against CE later in life. Especially raw bones and cartilage as well as leftovers and table scraps during puppyhood and adolescence, and berries during puppyhood were associated with less CE. In contrast, feeding an ultra-processed carbohydrate-based diet, namely dry dog food or “kibble” during puppyhood and adolescence, and rawhides during puppyhood were significant risk factors for CE later in life.
Vuori, K.A., Hemida, M., Moore, R. et al. The effect of puppyhood and adolescent diet on the incidence of chronic enteropathy in dogs later in life. Sci Rep 13, 1830 (2023). https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-023-27866-z
Man’s best friend has a way of looking at you pleadingly every time you sit down to eat, and it makes you want to give them a treat from your fork. Even if they’re not giving you puppy dog eyes at the dinner table, you love your pooch so much it’s tempting to give them treats more often than not.
The trouble is though, many snacks that we give our dogs without thinking can actually cause them harm. Read more...
Litter of beautiful chunky rottweilers. Mum and dad both kc registered and from champion bloodlines, both family pets and can been seen. The puppy is used to small children and very friendly puppy. The pup has been wormed every 2 weeks from 4 weeks old, vet checked and 1st vaccinations up to date
1st to visit will take home and he's ready for his forever home
Age: 8 weeks
Ready to leave: Now
Email : elliottyler614@gmail.com
The Azawakh is a breed of dog from West Africa. With ancient origins, it is raised throughout the Sahelian zone of Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso. This region includes the Azawagh Valley for which the breed is named. While commonly associated with the nomadic Tuareg people, they are also bred and owned by other ethnic groups such as the Peulh, Bella, and Hausa. The Azawakh is more related to the Sloughi than it is to the Saluki.
The Azawakh is slim and elegant, with bone structure and muscles showing through thin skin. Eyes are almond-shaped.
The coat is very short and almost absent on the belly. Its bone structure shows clearly through the skin and musculature. Its muscles are "dry", meaning that they are quite flat, unlike the Greyhound and Whippet. In this respect it is similar in type to the Saluki.
Colours permitted by the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI) breed standard are clear sand to dark fawn/brown, red and brindle (with or without a dark mask), with white bib, tail tip, and white on all feet (which can be tips of toes to high stockings). Since 2015 white stockings that go above the elbow joint are considered disqualifying features in the FCI member countries, as is a white collar or half collar (Irish marked).
Some conservationists support the idea that in Africa, Azawakhs are still found in a variety of colours such as red, blue fawn (that is, with a lilac cast), grizzle, and, rarely, blue and black with various white markings including Irish marked (white collar) and particolour (mostly white).[2] Because of this wide color variation in the native population, the American standard used by the AKC and UKC allows any color combination found in Africa. (AKC and UKC are not a member of the FCI)
Bred by the Tuareg, Fula and various other nomads of the Sahara and sub-Saharan Sahel in the countries of Mali, Niger, Burkina Faso, and southern Algeria, the breed known by the tuaregs as ”Oska” was used there as a guard dog and to hunt gazelle and hare at speeds up to 65 km/h (40 mph). The austerity of the Sahel environment has ensured that only the most fit dogs survive and has accentuated the breed's ruggedness and independence. Unlike some other sighthounds, the Azawakh is more of a pack hunter and they bump down the quarry with hindquarters when it has been tired out. In role of a guard dog, if an Azawakh senses danger it will bark to alert the other members of the pack, and they will gather together as a pack under the lead of the alpha dog, then chase off or attack the predator. The Sloughi, by comparison, is more of an independent lone hunter and has a high hunting instinct.
Azawakhs have a range of temperaments from lap dog to quite fierce. Lifelong socialization and gentle handling are critical. Well socialised and trained, they can be good with other dogs, cats, children, and strangers.
Unlike other sighthounds, the primary function of the Azawakh in its native land is that of protector. It develops an intense bond with its owner, yet can perform independently from its master. With those they accept, Azawakh are gentle and extremely affectionate. With strangers many are reserved and 
prefer not to be touched, but are not inherently aggressive. Although raised to guard against predators, they do not have innate aggression toward canines or humans unless they are threatened.
Azawakh have high energy and tremendous endurance. They are excellent training companions for runners. Many Azawakh dislike rain and cold weather.
Azawakh are pack oriented and form complex social hierarchies. They have tremendous memories and are able to recognize each other after long periods of separation. They can often be found sleeping on top of each other for warmth and companionship.[3]
The breed is relatively uncommon in Europe and North America but there is a growing band of devotees. Azawakh may be registered with the FCI in the USA via the Federación Canófila de Puerto Rico (FCPR).[4] European FCI clubs and the AKC recognize the FCPR as an acceptable registry. The AKC (not a member of the FCI) currently recognizes Azawakh as a Foundation Stock Service[5] breed and they are eligible to participate in AKC-sanctioned Companion & Performance events. The breed will enter the AKC Miscellaneous Class on June 30, 2011. The American Azawakh Association (AAA) is the AKC Parent Club for the Azawakh. Azawakh may be registered with the UKC and ARBA. The breed is not yet registered by CKC. Azawakh are eligible for ASFA and AKC lure coursing and NOFCA open field coursing events.
Alberto Rossi: "To raise an Azawakh is like building a very fragile construction, which takes a lot of sensibility and can be destroyed from one minute to the next. But every minute it lasts, it fills you with great happiness. Every time I´m sitting in a chair or sofa at least one of my dogs tries to take a seat on my lap. The same happens to those of my guests which they love. In these moments they seem to be the image of calmness, gentleness, and trust. But one should not be deceived about this. In the deepest place of their soul resides something wild and native, and they will remind us about it with the first occasion and we should not forget, even for a moment, not to treat them like a normal dog."
The Azawakh's light, supple, lissome gait is a notable breed characteristic, as is an upright double suspension gallop.
Azawakhs are an incredibly sound coursing hound. There is a small occurrence of adult-onset idiopathic epilepsy in the breed. Wobbler disease, or cervical vertebral instability, does rarely occur.
Height ranges from 24 to 29 incles and weight from 33 to 55 lbs.
Adopted from wikipedia the free encyclopedia
The Lagotto Romagnolo is an Italian breed of dog. It originated in the marshlands of the Delta del Po in the eastern part of the Romagna sub-region of Italy. The name derives from Romagnol can lagòt, meaning "water dog". Its traditional function was as a gun dog, specifically a water retriever; since the drainage of large areas of wetland habitat in its area of origin, it is now more often used to hunt for truffles.
The Lagotto originated in the lowlands of Comacchio and marshlands of Ravenna in the Delta del Po, in the eastern part of the Romagna sub-region of Italy. The name derives from Romagnol can lagòt, meaning "water dog". It is reputed to be the worlds first water retriever. Its traditional function was as 
a gun dog, specifically a water retriever; since the drainage of large areas of wetland habitat in its area of origin, it is now more often used to hunt for truffles. It has been known since the sixteenth century, but did not become widespread until the nineteenth.
The Lagotto is of small to medium size, rarely over 50 cm (19 Inches) at the withers, powerfully built and of rustic appearance. The weight of males is betwen 13-16 Kg (28-35 lbs) and females is 11-14 kg (24-30 lbs(. It is roughly square in outline, the body length more or less equal to the height. The coat is thick, wool-like and tightly curled into ringlets. It may be completely off-white, or off-white with orange or brown patches or roaning, or solid orange or brown either with or without white markings.
A Lagotto usually lives for about fifteen years. Neurological disorders that have been identified in the breed include cerebellar abiotrophy and idiopathic epilepsy.
It was provisionally accepted by the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI) in 1995 and received full acceptance in 2005.
Source - modified from Wikipedia
With TTCare on your smart phone pet illness detection is in the palm of your hand.
We always want to make sure our pets get the best possible care. It's frustrating when we think something is wrong with them and have to take them to the vet and pay hundreds of dollars only to find out they're completely fine.
A new app could help you get your four-legged pal help faster and potentially rule out ailments. Available on IOS and Android from their respective app stores.
Read more about this breakthrough app on FoxNews.com
Phoenix the dog believed nothing but pain came from a human hand until he met Takis. He spent his life living on the end of a chain and was beaten by man who police said was violent. People had complained to police that the dog was being mistreated, so they went and seized the dog.
As the police did not know how to handle Phoenix’s aggression, they called Takis, who runs Takis shelter, high in the hills of Ierapetra, Crete, Greece.
This legendary American breed was developed from various lines of old fighting bulldogs and bullterriers, such as the Irish Bulldog, Staffordshire Bull Terrier, Dudley Terrier, Irish Staffordshire Bullterrier, English Bullterrier, Scottish Blue Paul, English White Terrier and others in the 1800's. A number of breed fanciers maintain that the Pit Bull Terrier contains no terrier blood at all and that it is in fact the original British bulldogge, but these claims are poorly substantiated and oftentimes due to confusion in regards to the history, genetics and the appearance of old bulldogs, as well as their use and working traits.
Without the terrier influence, there would be no bullterriers and while this should be clear enough for all, further explanation would require the understanding that the bulldogs used in the creation of bullterrier type dogs were mostly working crosses or bandogs themselves, specialized cattledogs whose only requirement for being labeled as "bulldogs" was to be a mastiff-type dog, preferably of supposed Alaunt ancestry and bred to control and (when needed) bait livestock, usually bulls, both for work and entertainment. Read more...
There were about 6 pups hiding under an SUV and some chewing on a carcass. This one came up to me but after seeing what they were eating I was not about to touch him.
