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  • What You Need to Know About Neapolitan Mastiffs

    The Neapolitan Mastiff is one of the largest dogs in the world.

    People pause in amazement when they see them because at first glance they’re taken aback at their sheer size and their droopy and deeply wrinkled faces! Fear not, however, unless you’re one of the bad guys! Continue reading to learn more about the Neapolitan Mastiff breed.

    With origins from Italy, the 100 to 150 pound Neapolitan Mastiff is a giant but also gentle dog. Some have mistakenly labeled them as aggressive. Aggression has often been confused with protection, which is a stark difference. The Neapolitan Mastiff can be an excellent protector and guard dog if he is trained to be one. Their natural temperaments are calm. They are not ideal for first-time dog owners, because they require someone who can guide them with firm, kind, and consistent training.

    Here’s the Neapolitan Mastiff Checklist:

    • They require a minimal amount of exercise but are prone to obesity because of their laziness.
    • They are massive and take up a lot of space!
    • They have low grooming needs.
    • The Neapolitan Mastiff is calm and quiet. Okay, they snore and snort a lot, but aren’t habitual barkers!
    • They are generally mild-mannered dogs.
    • They can display destructive behavior with they’re bored and left unattended for long periods of time.
    • Because of their large size, they have a short lifespan.
    • They are expensive to care for because of their large size and accompanying appetite!
    • This is a very affectionate dog who’s very unaware of his size! He will cuddle beside you happily and closely. (We mentioned they take up a lot of space – personal space is included!)

    Overall, the Neapolitan Mastiff is a friendly family dog who needs to be handled firmly and with care and respect. If you you have the big space in your heart and home, we happily recommend the ownership of these big and beautiful pups. Contact us today for more information.

     

  • Saint Bernard Fun and Interesting Facts – Part 3

    We have taken such joy in sharing information about Saint Bernards.

    This is the last of our three-part series highlighting Saints and all of their glory. Below are 15 more fantastic facts!

    • There are other names for Saint Bernard puppies. They are Alpine Mastiff, St. Bernhardshund, and Bernhardiner.

     

    • A Saints’ coat can be either short or long haired.

     

    • Do not allow your Saint Bernard puppies to jump up and down frequently. Overactivity can hinder their bone and joint development.

     

    • While the Saint Bernard dogs stopped doing search and rescue in 1955, the hospice kept several until 2004. At that time, the Barry Foundation purchased the remaining 18 dogs and used them in a breeding program.

     

    • In addition to their keen rescue abilities, they are also instinctively good watchdogs. They are great at sensing danger and will alert their families accordingly.

     

    • Always monitor your Saint Bernard puppies during the summer months. They simply can’t handle the extreme changes in temperature.

     

    • If you can believe it, the Saint actually requires minimal exercise, so they are great as apartment dogs (if you have the space of course)!

     

    • In addition to being great with kids, they also get along swimmingly well with other pets.

     

    • In the sequel to the movie Beethoven, the Saint mated with another Saint producing a litter of Saint Bernard puppies. They apparently grew so fast that it required the production team of the movie to use over 100 different Saint Bernard puppies to finish filming the movie!

     

    • The American Temperament Test Society tested 44 out of 52 Saints and they passed with a rate of  84.6%.

     

    • The average Saint Bernard eats approximately 6.5 cups of food a day!

     

    • A Saint Bernard named Benedictine V Schwarzwald Hof earned a place in the Guinness Book of World Records. He was recorded as the most massive Saint weighing in at an astonishing 315 pounds.

     

    • Because of their size and associated health concerns, Saint Bernard dogs have a short lifespan of 7 to 10 years.

     

    • Saints are prone to bloat. When you’re feeding your pups, use elevated bowls and do not allow them to eat too fast or too much in one sitting.

     

    • Saints very rarely bark, so if you hear them you should check to make sure everything is okay!
  • Types of Rottweiler Dogs

    We bet you thought you already knew about Rottweilers and assumed there was just one type.

    Well, there are more than one. Let’s explore the world of Rottweiler puppies by delving into the various types of this powerful breed of dog that exists!

    German Rottweilers

    The German Rottweiler comes from – you guessed it – Germany! They differ from American Rottweiler puppies because the Rottweiler Club of Germany selectively breeds them. German Rottweilers are bred to be working dogs, and this is a task that is taken very seriously in Germany. Germans only allow specific dogs to produce. Each dog is required to meet and pass a stringent physical, as well as a temperamental test, and there are stipulations before their owners can breed them. Because of this, German Rottweiler puppies typically exhibit consistent temperaments and personalities.

    American Rottweilers

    These Rottweiler puppies are bred and born in the United States. Unlike the breeding in Germany, American Rottweilers are generally produced for their handsome and striking looks and not for working. American Rottweilers accepted by the American Kennel Club are considered to be purebred dogs.

    Roman Rottweilers

    Roman Rottweilers are massive and developed through selective breeding, and they don’t have Roman roots. They resemble the size of a Mastiff dog, but their coat and other physical appearances are that of American or German Rottweilers. Unfortunately, because of their grand size, they are very prone to suffering from hip dysplasia, among other orthopedic concerns.

    Tailed Rottweilers

    Many Rottweiler puppies are actually born with a tail, but they are docked shortly after that. The tailed Rottie is making a comeback, so to speak! They have been spotted more and more in recent years. In Germany, the practice of tail docking has been banned since 1999, however.

    All Rottweilers have the same brown and black distinctive coats, and they possess large heads with alluring brown eyes! These are certain standards that will never change!

     

  • Saint Bernard Fun and Interesting Facts – Part 2

    Here, we present part two of our three-part series highlighting sensational Saint Bernard puppies and adult dogs!

    Below are 15 additional facts about these big drooling beauties:

    • Artist Edward Lanseer painted a portrait of a Saint Bernard rescuing travelers in the snow carrying a keg of brandy around its neck. This was actually a fictitious painting but somehow it was thought to be true for many many years!

     

    • Barry, the Saint Bernard, was the most famous rescue dog at the St. Bernard Hospice. He is said to have saved between 40 and 100 people.

     

    • Saints have been credited with saving nearly 2000 people from the harsh elements of the Alps. A 12 year old boy who was found close to death in the snow was brought back to consciousness by a famous Saint.

     

    • Invest in some lint brushes and a strong vacuum because Saint Bernard puppies lose their coats twice a year and they shed a lot year-round!

     

    • The original Saint Bernard was the size of a German Shepherd Dog.

     

    • Saint Bernard puppies will grow to weigh between 130 and 200 pounds.

     

    • The first Saint Bernard Breed Club was organized in Basel, Switzerland in 1884.

     

    • The Saint Bernard Club of America was established in 1888.

     

    • Saint Bernard puppies rank 50th on the most popular breed list according to the American Kennel Club.

     

    • The St. Bernard Club of America has over 83,000 dogs registered in their system.

     

    • One of the most famous Saint Bernards is the namesake of the movie Beethoven.

     

    • Saints are closely related to Bernese Mountain dogs, English Mastiffs, and the Greater Swiss Mountain Dog.

     

    • Napoleon and his army crossed the mountains between 1790 and 1810 with Saint Bernards by their sides and there were no losses of life!

     

    • They are highly intelligent dogs. Did you know they were never trained to be rescue dogs? Saint Bernard puppies actually just followed the lead of the older dogs.

     

    • A Saint Bernard named Hercules was credited with saving his family just 6 hours after he was adopted. He captured a thief breaking into a car and held him by the leg until official help arrived!
  • Adorable Dachshund Puppies!

    Dachshund puppies have been notoriously described as “a half-dog high and a dog-and-a-half long.”

    We think that sounds about right! What they lack in size they more than make up for in personality. Ranking high as one of the most popular dogs in America, they prove it time and time again with their feisty and often comical dispositions. Take a look at some more information about our Dachshund puppies for sale.

    Interesting Dachshund facts:

    • The Dachshund is affectionately also known as the Doxie.
    • Dachshund puppies are intensely stubborn.
    • They can sometimes be hard to house train.
    • You’ll see these beauties found with smooth, long, or wire hair, in various colors and combinations including beige, fawn, blue, chocolate, black, and tan.
    • Dachshund puppies are in the hound family and were originally bred in Germany as hunting dogs, specifically badgers. They were called “badger dogs.”
    • Regarding the health of Dachshund puppies, they are prone to develop obesity.
    • Dachshund puppies have long lifespans. There was a Doxie named Chanel who lived in New York. She held the Guinness World Record for the oldest living dog, in 2009. When she died, she was at the age of 21!
    • Dachshunds are also wary of strangers and tend to bark loudly when their suspicions are aroused.
    • The Dachshund puppies, when full grown, will range from 11 to 32 pounds depending on their classification of standard or miniature.
    • They have a reputation for jumping on and off of things, including couches and even the arms of someone holding them. Their little bodies and long backs need to be protected at all times.
    • The AKC first recognized the Dachshund breed in 1885, and they were initially only black and tan and one size. The Dachshund now comes in 12 standard colors and three different kinds of markings. They also have two accepted sizes, standard and miniature and their coats can be smooth, long, or wire-haired.
    • They were the first Olympic mascot for the Munich Games in 1972!

    Interested in learning even more, then come by our store!

     

  • Saint Bernard Fun and Interesting Facts – Part 1

    Saint Bernards are giant, muscular, and strong dogs!

    Like any other large breed dog, Saint Bernard puppies start out cute and cuddly and grow to somewhat massive sizes and heights! Our Saint Bernard puppies are gentle, friendly, and great with children. Saint Bernard owners rave about their sweet temperaments and eagerness to please. In a three-part series, we’ve gathered 15 facts about Saint Bernards!

     

    • The Saint Bernard originated in the Alpine region of Switzerland, which is where they gained their well-earned notoriety as search and rescue dogs.

     

    • Saint Bernard puppies got their names from the Great St. Bernard Hospice in the western Alps. Specifically, they were named after Saint Bernard de Menthon, the patron saint of mountaineers. The farmers gave monks at the hospice dogs for protection. They soon began to realize their exceptional sense of smell and started using them for rescue work.

     

    • Saint Bernards would often travel in pairs of two. If someone were stranded, one would wait with the stranded while the other would return to the monks for help.

     

    • The breed was almost wiped out after several avalanches killed most of the breed. Consequently, the monks started crossing Saint Bernard puppies with Newfoundlands.

     

    • Like any other breed, Saints have specifically associated ailments. They are prone to hip and elbow dysplasia, eczema, heart problems, and seizures.

     

    • There is a town in Ohio called St. Bernard.

     

    • The Saint’s coat is a beautiful mix of various shades of white, red, tan, mahogany, black, and brindle.

     

    • Saint Bernard puppies weigh an average of 1.5 pounds at birth!

     

    • These big babies grow for a long time because they don’t reach maturity for 3 years!

     

    • Saint Bernards range in height from 25 to 30 inches at the shoulder.

     

    • Saints are working dogs and are commonly used for cart pulling, agility, weight pulling, and their excellent nose work.

     

    • Buck from Jack London’s Call of the Wild was a Saint Bernard mix.

     

    • Many large breed dogs, including Saint Bernard puppies, faced extinction after WWII.

     

    • Saint Bernard dogs are thought to be descendants of Molosser dogs which were brought to Europe by the ancient Romans.

     

    • Saint Bernard puppies start (and don’t stop) drooling early in their lives! Drooling is part of the Saint Bernard puppy package! Because of their drooling, they drink a lot of water, so keep fresh water accessible for them at all times.

     

  • Interesting English Mastiff Info

    The English Mastiff (nicknamed the Old English Mastiff) is one of those large dogs that are pretty distinguishable.

    Even as puppies, you know them by their splendid colors and specifically their massive sized heads and bodies! Large dogs, in general, are pretty intimidating but these babies are gentle and sweet by nature. Want to learn more about these big beauties? Continue reading because we’ve gathered some dynamic information about them.

    Guess what. They don’t require daily exercise!

    Despite how large the English Mastiff is they don’t require any more exercise than regular size dogs. In fact, because of their large form, their bones need to fully develop before they are actually introduced to a routine exercise schedule. Excessive exercise before their bones and joints are developed can stunt and hinder their growth.

    Training them takes patience.

    The English Mastiff is an intelligent but stubborn and sensitive dog! Because of the former, it will take time and patience to train them. Because of the latter, they respond very well to positive and firm training. They love to please their owners, so keep the commands simple and straightforward.

    Mastiffs are sweet.

    We touched on this earlier. The English Mastiff is large and lovable. They are incredibly gentle and calm, especially with their families. They can live in families with children, as well. They are protective and make excellent guard dogs, but don’t expect them to actually chase or attack someone. They may keep an intruder held down physically until human help arrives, but that’s about it.

    Mastiffs have large litters!

    Because the English Mastiff is so large, they consequently have large litters. A typical litter produces approximately 10-12 puppies, and that’s a lot! The Mastiff breed is the only dog breed that has ever produced the highest number of puppies in a single litter. This record goes to an English Mastiff in England who gave birth to 24 puppies, of which 20 survived past the first week!

    Their care can be costly.

    As with most large dogs, it will be more expensive to take care of them. They eat a lot! No really, they eat 6 to 8 cups of dry food a day. Because they need to be fed the best and highest quality of food, that can really add up. You also have to factor in their vet bills, toys, etc. Taking proper care of them requires proper financial planning; however, they are worth every penny!

     

  • 5 Labrador Retriever Facts

    Black lab, chocolate lab, yellow lab…no matter the color they are loved across the world!

    Lab puppies are simply adorable, and they are cute beyond belief! Here are some facts about these precious and reliable family pups!

    They Are Doctors

    Okay, that’s a bit of stretch! Lab puppies can be raised to help detect cancer. Because of their powerful noses and sense of smell, they can be trained to identify the early stages of cancer. Through work with cancer cell samples, they can render a diagnosis from smelling a patient’s breath, blood, or stool.

    They Are Favored

    We feel like this is necessary to share and an obvious truth. According to the American Kennel Club, lab puppies continuously rank high on the most popular breeds list. They have done this for 24 consecutive years. This is the longest reign of any breed in the American Kennel Club’s history.

    Labs Love Water!

    They were bred to be water dogs, and they happen to have water resistant double coats. Their coats provide insulation, and their short fur keeps them warm, which allows them to swim swiftly when they’re wet. Lab puppies also have webbed toes that aids with fast swimming.

    Labs Have Lovely Colors

    Lab puppies can be born in a variety of colors, regardless of the parents’ color. In one litter there could be a chocolate, a black, and a yellow lab!

    Labs Are Fast

    Labradors are well-known for their ability to sprint. They can run 12 miles an hour in just three seconds! So they’re runners and swimmers!

    Labs Aren’t From Labrador

    Lab puppies didn’t originate in Labrador as one would think, based on their name. They are actually from Newfoundland. They are called Labrador Retrievers because they were used as working dogs in the Labrador Sea.

     

    If you’re interested in learning even more about Lab puppies and taking one home for yourself, contact us today!

     

  • 5 Ways to Manage Your Fluffy Corgi’s Fur

    Are you an owner of one or more Corgi puppies?

    Then you already know that they are well-known shedders and there’s no getting around that fact! There are, however, ways that you can manage their fur. We have some tips for you. Take a look!

    • Buy a Furminator!

    This is an essentially needed item, and no substitutes will do. This is a tool that every owner of Corgi puppies should have. Slowly introduce it to your pup over time and then start using it on a weekly basis, during shedding season. On the off-shedding season, you can use it every 3 to 4 weeks.

    • Use a Greyhound Comb

    During the off-shedding season, use a greyhound comb in conjunction with the Furminator. It’s perfect for brushing out the fine hairs stuck under your pup’s fur.

    • Use Quality Shampoos and Conditioners

    There indeed comes a time when you’ll need to bathe your Corgi puppies at home. When you do, make sure that it’s not done too often. Frequent baths will strip the natural oils from your pup’s skin and hair. Use quality and natural shampoos and conditioners to keep your pup’s hair healthy, beautiful, and soft.

    • Purchase a Vacuum Cleaner

    This is another essential item, especially if you have carpet in your home. The vacuum will be like your best and most reliable friend, so you’ll need a high-quality one. You’ll need one that can easily pick up animal hairs and not break down, so invest in one of the more expensive types that will ultimately last. Also related and significantly cheaper…get a lint brush or two!

    • Professional Groom at Least Twice A Year

    Lastly, to keep a handle on the shedding of Corgi puppies, we recommend that you take your pups to get professional grooming at least twice a year. Go during the winter and summer sheds. You’ll see noticeable differences each year when you do this.

     

  • We Have Hybrid Puppies Here!

    Hybrid or “designer” dogs are the latest craze in the puppy industry and we applaud their varied mixes!

    They are often times a blend of the best of both doggy worlds, making for dogs with affable and desirable temperaments. Below are a few that we feature and sale right here at Petland!  

    Cavachon

    You have surely seen these beauties, but perhaps you didn’t recognize the breed by name. We are formally introducing you to this beautiful breed! Cavachon puppies are a type of mixed breed or hybrid puppies that came from a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel and a Bichon Frise. They range from 12 to 16 inches in height and they can weigh between 10 to 20 pounds. Cavachon puppies come in a variety of coat colors, but the most common are peach and white. You’ll also see tri-colored, black and tan, and sable.

    Maltishi

    Maltishi puppies are the beautiful blended mix of the Maltese and Shih Tzu dogs. These sweet babies were originated and created to be small companions who don’t shed much and loves laps! There’s more to the eye with these little guys. Maltishi hybrid puppies are full of personality and not the kind that’s nerve-wracking. They are active, intelligent dogs with relatively quiet and laid back personalities. They love being around family and they’re quite content spending quality time with you. We will warn you that they can sometimes be a bit curious and mischievous so just be mindful!

    Walrus

    The Walrus dogs are hybrid puppies that are a cross between a Chinese Shar-Pei and a Basset Hound. His body is more of the Basset, but his skin is wrinkly and crinkly like the Shar-Pei, making him undeniably irresistible. They are technically a medium sized dog, as they range from 40 to 60 pounds. You may also see them referred to as a Ba-Shar.  Walrus puppies for sale are normally a show stopper and conversation starter, because they’re still kinda rare, so some research studies are rare and sparse, too. What we know for sure is that they are an affectionate breed who match very well with dog owners who live inactive and somewhat sedentary lifestyles.

    Mini Goldendoodle

    The Miniature Goldendoodle is crossed between a Toy, Miniature, or small Standard Poodle and a Golden Retriever. They’ve been nicknamed the Mini Groodle, which is kinda funny! The name Goldendoodle originated in the United States during the early 1990’s. Mini Goldendoodle puppies are friendly, hypoallergenic, non-shedding dogs. They are extremely intelligent, having been mixed with two smart breeds, this is expected! Mini Goldendoodle puppies are also highly trainable, affectionate, and extremely social dogs. Because of their cheerful disposition, they are trustworthy and eager to please their owners. The Mini Goldendoodle puppy will thrive in any home environment, i.e. apartments or stand alone houses, surely to be entertaining, and creating memories with your family for 10 – 14 years!

    Yorkipoo

    The Yorkipoo is a cross between the Yorkshire Terrier and a Toy or Miniature Poodle. The charming Yorkipoo stops everyone in their tracks upon first sight! They are always ready to play or entertain you. These hybrid puppies are gentle and loving dogs who can do well with children, but very young children are not recommended. That would increase the likelihood of injury if he’s improperly handled.  A Yorkipoo makes for an excellent companion for the elderly, as well.