Blogging News

I'm evaluating a multi-media course on blogging from the folks at Simpleology. For a while, they're letting you snag it for free if you post about it on your blog.

It covers:

• The best blogging techniques.
• How to get traffic to your blog.
• How to turn your blog into money.

I'll let you know what I think once I've had a chance to check it out. Meanwhile, go grab yours while it's still free.

Maltese - Small Dog Breed

The Maltese dog has ancient origins as is evidenced by early depictions of its likeness found in artifacts from the Roman era.

This small dog also did a fair amount of traveling on the high seas during this period, keeping company with sailors as they made their long voyages to trading destinations.

There are a lot of interesting facts about the Maltese, which is just one of the small dog breeds assigned to the Toy Dog Group.

A Little Dog Quiz.

Here's an easy dog quiz for you. What breed of dog do you associate with the island of Cuba?

If you said the Havanese, you got it right. This handsome little, though sturdy, dog is the national dog of Cuba and was brought there by colonists after the island was discovered by Christopher Columbus.

The Havanese, a member of the toy dog group, was at one time called the Havana Silk Dog, apparently in association with its coat texture which is very silk-like. It is also interesting to note that the coat apparently developed over time in response to the tropical weather and enabled the dog to be protected from the hot Cuban climate.

This sweet dog has been much admired by the aristocracy over the years and has an interesting historical background, as well as some lovable features you might want to learn more about IMHO.

Anyone for Shih Tzu?

No it's not something on the menu - it's an adorable little dog. But don't let the little fool ya, this dog is sturdy, and tries to live up to the meaning of his name - Lion Dog!

The Shih Tzu thinks he's a big dog and is quite assertive, but he can usually get by with a lot because he is so cute. And, he'll give you back oodles of attention for every bit he gets.

If you are looking for a dog that is easy to take care of and one that has lots of personality, you can't go wrong with a
Shih Tzu, IMHO.

Think You Spoil Your Dog?

Some pampered dogs are really going to have the spa experience of their lifetime at a new dog resort in Florida.

After pets check into their luxury suite, lucky dogs who get to stay there will be able to enjoy television on several flat screen plasma televisions positioned around the facility, or romp to their heart's content in a special playroom. On the other hand, if they feel like just kicking back, they can schedule a first class massages along with a complete grooming session.

Pets also get to enjoy holistic feeding, a complete wellness center and turn-down services at bedtime. And, for the pampered pooch who may have forgotten his diamond studded tiara, designer accessories are also available at the hotel.

Pet friendly hotels all over the country are now welcoming dogs and offering them a dazzling array of services. So, there's no reason to leave Rover home anymore, IMHO.

Is Your Dog A Tugger?

Many dogs resort to tugging when you're trying to leash train them - some continue to do this, making it a frustrating tug of war every time you go on a walk.

What many new dog owners don't realize is that this pulling can cause damage to a dog's spine and trachea when they pull too hard on a collar. Breeds with short necks are even more at risk for this type of injury.

So what's the solution? A dog harness. Unlike a dog collar, a harness fits around the front legs and low on the torso, taking the pressure off of the neck area.

Owners report they have much more control with aleather dog harness than a regular collar. Yet at the same time, this is a much more gentle way to teach your dog his walking manners IMHO.

A Dog's Christmas Stocking

When you're making out that Christmas gift list, don't forget faithful old Rover.

This week I've been boning up on what dog toys make a dog smile. One that popped right up, is something to chew. Dogs need to chew and if there are no chew toys around, they may just take a fancy to your shoes to satisfy this natural instinct.

In addition to chew toys, there are many other fun dog toys to amuse Rover and keep him out of mischief when he's left alone. So if you're feeling generous when it's time to fill your dog's stocking, load them up and you'll make him smile!