Dog Breed of the Week: Siberian Husky

The Siberian Husky is often thought of as a sled dog, and this is actually how the breed originated. But today's Husky is so much more than this. Overall, this breed absolutely loves to work, can sustain colder temperatures, and is quite skilled at companionship.

Huskies can make wonderful pets for the right families. They will thrive in households where they can get plenty of exercise and attention. The Huskies I have known have typically been enthusiastic dogs that shared close bonds with their humans. They also like to share hair, so be prepared for shedding (hint: try the FURminator). The Husky does not need to live in a cold climate, but be sure to avoid extremely hot temperatures. It's fair to say that most Huskies really enjoy air conditioning in the summer. In addition, I have heard several accounts of Huskies that adore water. Does yours?

Are you a Siberian Husky fan? Want to share your story and pictures? Tell us more about your Husky!

Photo ? Matthew Wilsterman

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Dog Breed of the Week: Mutt

It's time once again to feature mixed-breed dogs (yes, my favorite). Though the mutt is not technically a dog breed, mixed-breed dogs definitely have their place as the "breed" of the week. After all, they are no less deserving of the spotlight than purebred dogs. Many of the dogs in shelters are mutts, so adopting one is a great way to help dogs in need.

Personally, I am a mixed-breed enthusiast. I just love how each mutt is a bit of a mystery, and I enjoy taking guesses about a mutt's breed makeup. Mixed-breed fans will probably agree that mutts are among the most unique of all dogs. No two mutts are quite the same, and the exact lineage of any given mutt is usually a secret your dog will never tell. However, recent scientific advances have made it possible for us to get DNA testing on our mutts. These tests can give us a pretty good idea of the breeds that make up a mutt, but they are not 100% precise. However, DNA testing can be helpful to prepare you for potential hereditary diseases, predict possible personality traits, or figure out what activities or sports might interest your mixed breed dog.

Are you nuts for mutts? If so, you're are not alone - millions of people adore their mixed breed dogs. What's extra-special about your mixed breed dog? Share your mutt tales with us!

Photo © Greta

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What are Designer Dogs?

Hybrid dogs, often called designer dog breeds, are the results of controlled cross-breeding between two purebred dogs. It is believed that the term "designer dog" was made popular by the media after it was found that many celebrities showed interest in hybrid dogs. Hybrid dogs have become increasing popular in the last 10-20 years. Why is this?

Perhaps the main reason people create hybrid dogs is to end up with a family friendly dog that is also hypoallergenic. Case in point, the Labradoodle and Goldendoodle. Labrador Retrievers and Golden Retrievers are two of the most popular dog breeds in the US. They are fun-loving, happy, playful and active dogs that tend to get along exceptionally well with kids. People also like the way they look. But they shed like crazy. Poodles don't shed much at all and are usually great for those allergic to dogs. Despite the fact that Poodles are also great family dogs, people who want the Lab or Golden "look" and attitude might not want a Poodle. But crossing the two breeds might result in a low-shedding Lab or Golden. Perfect, right? Not necessarily.

Another reason to create a hybrid is pure cuteness. I do agree that some hybrids - like Puggles (Pug/Beagle crosses) - are unbelievably cute. However, so are most of the mystery mutts at the pound. I guess what I am trying to say is that I am not a fan of the hybrid dog trend. Crossing two breeds does not guarantee the offspring will take on the desired traits. Basically, breeding hybrid dogs is just deliberately creating more mixed-breed dogs. One might argue that this causes more mutts to end up unwanted and homeless. While I love mutts, I also think nature has provided us with a surplus (and by nature I mean many, many irresponsible dog owners).

If you think you want a hybrid dog, I urge you to first consider dog adoption. Many purebred and hybrid-type dogs are available through shelters and rescue groups. If you still think you want a hybrid, do your research. Learn more about hybrid dogs before you make your choice.

Photo: A Yorki-Poo (Yorkshire Terrier/Poodle cross) named Spike, © Connie

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Likes-Needs-Wants.

That's Me, Lilly, enjoying the morning sun.

I will take this opportunity now to thank you all for visiting 

Lilly's Bark.

You see, i know what us K9s like, don't like, need, don't need, want, and don't want.