I just got done watching the first episode of The Greatest American Dog. I really enjoyed the show. I think that if you are a dog lover, you will like it too.

There was plenty of fun interaction among the dogs and their owners. In one instance, Tillman, the skateboarding Bulldog, got his skateboard stolen by Ezzie, the hyper Boston Terrier.

The first contest was a game of musical chairs with the dogs, which was great to watch. The dogs played musical chairs until only one dog was left. The winners, J.D. and Galaxy, got to stay in the amazing Dog Bone suite all by themselves. The rest of the dogs and owners had to share rooms. Except for one unlucky pair, David and Elvis, who had to stay outside in the doghouse – yes, the owner David too. The pair to stay in the doghouse was chosen by the dog bone winner, J.D.

But the doghouse wasn’t too bad, especially after the other contestants brought out an extra mattress, pillows, and goodies for David and Elvis. I think this was a smart move, since anyone could end up in the doghouse on future episodes, so they might as well set a precedent of taking care of the poor pair in the doghouse!

The next competition was a talent show, with three teams. Each team had to put on a show, and all the shows turned out pretty cute. The three dogs and their humans with the worst dog/owner interaction were singled out, and one of these would be eliminated.

It turned out that Michael and Ezzie were sent home. I wasn’t surprised, since the judges pointed out how nervous and scared Ezzie was. She was not enjoying herself at all in the talent competition. It made you wonder what Michael did to make Ezzie so nervous. I think it was better that they got sent home before Michael got Ezzie even more worked up. I felt sorry for the poor dog.

So goodbye, Michael and Ezzie, and I’m looking forward to next week’s episode of The Greatest American Dog!

I plan to watch, and then I’ll update with my thoughts on the show. So far, I have heard both good and bad comments about it.

At least, I think it will be cool to have a reality TV show about dogs! Certainly a change from all those shows about boring humans.

Here, you can see a photo of all 12 dogs who are going to be on The Greatest American Dog show.

The 12 owners and their dogs are:

Travis and Presley (Boxer)

Ron and Tillman (English Bull Dog)

Michael and Ezzie (Boston Terrier)

Laura and Preston (Pomeranian)

Elan and Kenji (Giant Schnauzer)

David and Elvis (Parson Russell Terrier)

J.D. and Galaxy (English Pointer and Border Collie mix)

Laurie and Andrew (Maltese)

Brandy and Beacon (Miniature Schnauzer)

Beth Joy and Bella Starlet (Mutt – Chihuahua, Labrador Retriever, Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever, Shih-Tzu and Pomeranian)

Bill and Star (Brittany)

Teresa and Leroy (Border Collie)

So have fun watching the Greatest American Dog!

Winter is a great time for dog sledding. Here is some information about sled dogs and the sport of dog sledding.

Sled Dog Breeds And Sled Dog Racing

By Rebecca Prescott

Sled dog breeds are characterized by endurance, strength, and intelligence. They are usually medium to larger dogs, with a very muscular build, and have helped mankind transport supplies in times before the automobile.

Nowadays, sled dog breeds are found as pets, as well as trained to participate in sled dog racing.

Sled dogs were developed to withstand very low temperatures. Their coats have a double layer, with the undercoat acting as insulation against the ice and snow. Because they have such thick coats, they need regular brushing and grooming. They also shed a lot, especially at the beginning of summer when they lose a lot of their undercoat. This could be a problem for people with dog allergies.

Sled Dogs at Sunset – Photo by jurvetson

Traditional sled dog breeds include the Siberian Husky, the Alaskan Malamute, the Chinook, the Sakhalin Husky, the Canadian Eskimo dog, the Seppala Siberian sled dog, the Tamaskan husky, the Samoyed, the Eurohound, the Mackenzie River husky, and the Greenland dog.

Whilst these dogs were purpose bred, many other breeds have been used, including mixed breeds. These days, that tradition lives on in sled dog racing, where the most popular breeds include the Alaskan Husky, and various cross breeds, often based on the German Shorthaired Pointer. However, many breeds have been used, including the Poodle!

Alaskan huskies are favored in modern sled dog races because they are faster than traditional breeds like the Alaskan malamute or the samoyed. They are not as strong, but in sled dog racing where speed is important, and the distances are shorter, Alaskan huskies were found to perform better.

Alaskan husky dogs are not a recognized breed. They are bred for their performance, and so they cannot be easily characterized as a breed. Alaskan husky dogs represent a variety of types with different lines. They are hybrid dogs – a husky with another breed, that is determined by the needs and ideas of the breeders. A husky may be bred with a wolf, setters, or any other breed that can bring genetic advantages in speed and endurance.

Sled dog racing is a winter and fall sport where the sled dogs are attached to a sled (or a 3 or 4 wheeled cart in autumn), and pull the driver along. The driver stands on runners. The dogs are harnessed individually, with tug lines attached that are linked into a central gang line. The dogs are linked in pairs, and there are up to 22 dogs in a racing team. Teams race either against the clock, and a winner then announced, or against each other in a seemingly chaotic race. There are dog sled races in three categories – short distance, middle distance, and long distance.

Like the sled dog breeds themselves, the sport of sled dog racing has seen some interesting adaptions to modern times and different climates. In Australia, for example, where there is very little snow, even in winter, sled dog races are held. Here, modified scooters are used, and racing is done on dirt tracks. Australian sled dog racers tend to use all sorts of dogs as sled dogs, including kelpies, english pointers, and red heelers.

More About Dog Sledding

Dog Sledding 101 Game at PBS

Iditarod Sled Dog Race

International Sled Dog Racing Association

Agility Competitions

By Helen Michaels

Agility Competitions are taking the nation by storm and their popularity is surpassing that of the more structured dog shows. Agility is a more fun and competitive dog sport that puts high marks on the dogs’ speed and the accuracy of their handlers. The pet dogs are directed through a gauntlet of tunnels, weave posts and other obstacles. It is very similar to equestrian events. As the dogs advance to higher levels of competition, the courses become more challenging.

Most breeds that excel in Agility Competitions are from the sporting and working breeds; these breeds are highly intelligent and fleet on their feet. It seems the dogs that do best are often curious, confident and trusting of their owners. Like in all sports, there is a component of physical fitness that entails changing the body’s direction with speed and precision.

For the actual Agility competition, agility courses are done with obstacles that a dog has to perform correctly. Handlers may call, clap or otherwise instruct the dog during every event to keep them focused. During the course the dog must make a number of jumps required, climb obstacles, weave through poles and get on a pause table. This course is timed and the dog that finishes with the fewest course faults and fastest time wins.

Here is breakdown of the obstacles one may see in a typical agility course:

A-Frame
This contact obstacle makes use of two joined panels forming a letter “A”. The dog must go up on one side and down the other side where it should touch the contact point.

Dog Walk

This obstacle makes use of two ramps that have a platform between them all measuring 12 inches across. To score points, the dog has to touch the contact zone at the ascending and descending ramp.

Pause Table
The dog must stop at this table; it can sit or stay at this point. The judges allot 5 seconds for every dog.

Seesaw
With the use of a 12 inch wide plank and a base at the middle; the dog is suppossed make the contact point at the plank and maneuver it to tip down at the other side for the dog to get off.

Open Tunnel
This is a 10-20 ft. cloth tunnel that the dog must pass through; it curves so that the dogs wont see the exit.

Jumps
Depending on the level of competition, the course has different kinds of jumping: single-bar, panel, double bar and the triple. The heights also depend on the height of the dog. Jumps can be poised from 8 inches to 24 inches.

Closed Tunnel
This tunnel is made of hard material and at its end is a chute. The closed tunnel measures from 12 to 15 ft.

Weave Poles
This course makes use of poles instead of cones; these poles may be as low as 6 poles and as numerous as 12 poles. Each pole is 36 inches tall and 20 – 24 inches all arranged in a straight lined.

Agility competitions have done a lot for pet owners and dogs. Many owners with aggressive or bored dogs have seen benefits from agility training. Agility training is fun for pet and pet owners, and they are here to stay.

By Kelly Marshall

There is a wide range of various events, competitions and trials that you may want to consider training your dog for. Many of these events, unlike show events, do not require the dog be purebred or even of a specific group; rather any dog that meets the basic requirements can enter.

Many of these events are sponsored locally; however, some are statewide, national or even international competitions. These are great events to get your dog involved in as it keeps them learning, socialized and active in a positive manner.

Some competitions to consider for you and your dog are:

Sporting Dog Competitions: These trials are set up depending on the type of dog and hunting style. There are competitions for flushing birds, pointing, setting and retrieving. Dogs compete against a standard as well as against the clock and even each other.

Herding Events: While usually these events are only attempted by herding breeds or herding breed crosses, any dog could potentially enter. The dogs are required to herd livestock, usually sheep or calves, from one area to the other with the assistance of the handler. Time as well as ability are graded by judges.

Obedience Competitions: Depending on the level of expertise you and your dog have achieved, these competitions can include basic commands on a leash on up to completely off the leash highly complex patterns and commands. These competitions are solely judged on the dog’s performance, not against each other.

Tracking Events: These events involve the dog following a pre-set trail or scent pattern. The handler cannot prompt the dog, and the patterns become increasingly more complex and challenging as the dog increases in experience. Some events include the dogs having to track through water and learning how to pick up the scent on the other side by searching the opposite bank. Points are given for successful completion, time and effectiveness on the scent.

Frisbee Dog

Flydog Competitions: This is one of the most exciting and entertaining events; teams of dogs are racing against each other to run to a ramp, jump on a platform, grab the ball that is released, and run back to the start for the next dog to go. It is like a dog relay, with each team consisting of various breeds of dogs, from very small to giant breeds.

Frisbee Dogs: This is teamwork between the dog and the thrower. Each pair makes a series of throws and catches, with points being awarded for the dog that makes the most spectacular catches based on its size, the conditions, and the distance of the throw.

Agility Training: This involves the dog being able to complete a pre-set pattern of jumps, contact obstacles that the dog must touch, as well as a seesaw the dog must walk across, among other things. The dog must be obedient and listen to the trainer as well as complete the course with the least number of faults.

If you are planning to get involved in one of the various types of competitions, spend some time going to the events and talking to the fans, owners, and handlers to decide if it is the right competition for you and your dog.

1. Dog Paw Christmas Stocking

This stocking is just the cutest! Make it for your dog or for a dog lover. You could add a name to this stocking too.

Instructions for Dog Paw Christmas Stocking

2. Dog Biscuit Dog Ornament

Here are instructions to make a cute dog out of a dog biscuit. The instructions say to glue a magnet on the back, but you could just as easily add a hanger and hang these on the tree. Very cute.

Biscuit Dog Instructions

3. Edible Dog

How about an edible dog made out of Oreos or similar cookies? This one looks like it would be a lot of fun for kids to make, and then they could give them as gifts to Grandma, etc. (If they don’t eat them first!)

Edible Dog Craft Instructions

4. Dog Bone Wreath

Great Christmas decoration for anyone who has a dog. And after Christmas, you can give the bones and dog toys to your dog.

Instructions for Dog Bone Wreath

5. Dog Draft Stopper

This is great if your windows or doors are drafty. Make a long dog to stop the cold air from coming in.

Dog Draft Stopper Craft

Have fun making these dog Christmas crafts. It’s a lot more fun to stay home and make things than to battle the crowds in the stores.

Related books (Click book for more info):

]]> http://doggiewoggie.com/a/dog-christmas-crafts/feed/ 0 http://doggiewoggie.com/a/funny-dog-signs/ http://doggiewoggie.com/a/funny-dog-signs/#comments Mon, 04 Dec 2006 04:00:32 +0000 Pat http://doggiewoggie.com/2006/12/03/funny-dog-signs/

Here are some funny dog signs for your enjoyment. Click on an image to enlarge it.

Get your own funny dog sign – click here

	No hand shadow puppets?
Dogs Starting Here: “Online”	Beware of the dog - he is very sarcastic	Moving Tip – number 12: DON’T pack a dog and a cat in the same box
I can make it to the gate in 3 seconds – Can you?	No Tresspassing Beware of Dogs They will bite ye butt!	Please Do Not Empty Dogs Past Here – Thank You
Warning! Dog Poop	Beware of the Dog	Please – No Dogs No Bicycles

More dog signs…

Beware of Dog	Dog Bath – Warm	Caution! Land Mines
Valet Barking	Hond in de Goot?	Bad Dog (Keep Out)
Beware of the dog - Enter at your own risk	Lunatic Dog	-i snor?
“Killer”	Beware of Psychotic Dog

I think they are very beautiful.

You can see more of them at www.pawlick.org.

From the FAQ: “Will my dog eat your artwork? It hasn’t happened yet!”

The artist, Pawlick, has this to say about his art:

With my dry dog food works, I create the unexpected from the everyday, turning the average into the extraordinary.

A creative challenge to both inspire fresh thought amongst viewers and to assist animal outreach groups brought about this unique and light-hearted medium. Faced with a limited chromatic palate, I use basic foreground geometries and substratal patterns of flow to balance and overcome the inherent limitations therein. Finding the balance in each piece in turn inspires me to accept that challenge anew with every new creation.

I think this is such a great idea: gorgeous artwork made of dried dog food, benefiting dog shelters and other dog groups. I love it!

In Fashion For 2006

Classic Glamour: This year the trend of glamorous yet classic clothing and accessories will continue to be hot.

Faux Fur Coat – of course the fur must be faux!

Diamond Collar with Faux Pearl Charms – what dog would not love this?

Glamorous coat, and the matching toy is darling!

Cute and Stylish: What the fashionable dog is wearing in 2006.

This sweater is colorful, yet not “too much”.

All dog girls want to carry their own purse, especially one as lovely as this!

Out Of Fashion For 2006

Will Never Catch On:

Pet and People Matching Umbrellas – What were they thinking? Try to walk around holding two umbrellas and a dog – not to mention how strange it looks.

No self-respecting dog would wear this!

This website is full of resources for teaching kids about dogs. If you are planning on getting a dog, this would be a good site for your kids to look at. Some of the topics include getting a new dog, dog training, dog breeds, behavior FAQ’s, what to do on your first day and first year with a dog, exercise, housebreaking, dog activities, and much more!

There is even a page of things kids can do if they can’t have a dog. Examples are: walking a neighbor’s dog, volunteering at a shelter, or getting a different kind of pet.

There is also some good information for safety regarding dogs (your own and strange dogs).

I think this site is great, and I’m sure your kids will like it too!