Usually, when we ask if a dog is smart, we really want to know how trainable they are. Although intelligence is a major component in a dog's ability to learn, each breed has a distinct personality, instinctive drive, and genetic heritage, which will affect trainability. For example, some breeds were developed to work cooperatively with […]

  Bonnie Bailey of Alexandria, Va., asks: Gunny seeks out rocks to retrieve, bury, and chew. I am concerned that Gunny will swallow a small one (although most are too big) or crack a tooth. It's not possible to remove all the rocks in the yard, so I would like to train him away from […]

How do you feel about a grand adventure, with a bit of challenge and surprise tossed in? If this appeals to you, the Grand Basset Griffon Vendéen may satisfy that urge. With fewer than 400 in the United States, the rough-coated scenthound, a native of France, is one of two new breeds the American Kennel […]

Responsible breeders work hard to keep their litters safe and happy in the kennel, but puppies are known for their inquisitive natures and ability to find trouble. While choosing the right owner is the first step in ensuring a healthy life, even the best match can't keep all puppies away from unexpected accidents. To help […]

When you're making your New Year's resolutions, consider your dog's goals, too. Here are five easy ways to make this year wonderful for you and your dog.

Photos courtesy of Wavemaker Staffords Lynn and Jim Caswell of Grayson, Ga., own, show, and breed Staffordshire Bull Terriers. They travel around the country promoting health, exercise, and the breed standard, with a focus on the total dog: temperament, structure, movement, and type. The Caswells have been involved with this breed for 14 years and […]

How much do you think your dog remembers about the day-to-day events in his life? Is his memory as good as yours, or is he only living in the moment? The ability to recall personal events and specific moments is known as "episodic memory," and it's up for debate whether dogs possess this type of […]

Does your dog understand you better than you understand him? Or do you have a good grasp of what your dog is trying to say? Dog owners spend a great deal of time and effort training their dogs to understand humans, but they don't always put the same energy into learning the language of their […]

An event such as the AKC National Championship presented by Royal Canin offers an amazing opportunity to meet the many breeds competing in the ring. This year, the AKC Meet the Breeds individual booths represented more than 100 breeds. Like every breed, and, in fact, every dog, every booth is truly unique. Each breed club […]

Terri A. of Florida asks how to get her newly adopted Poodle used to a carrier case, so he can fly with her to visit family over the holidays. Connie G. of Missouri asks for advice on her Shih Tzu that hates to travel and gets so stressed that he will not eat, sleep, or […]