The Basenji is an athletic, medium sized hunting dog with its origins traced back to central Africa. They are unique among dogs for their sound. They do not bark, but yowl a high-pitched guttural vocalization unique to their breed due to their unusually shaped larynx.

History of the Basenji

Basenjis are one of the oldest dog breeds, already a domesticated dog before they were brought up the Nile to Ancient Egypt as gifts for the pharaohs. They have long been used as hunting dogs by the locals in and around the Congo who revered these dogs for their aptitude, bravery, speed and calm.

They hunt by sight and scent and have a high prey drive. They were bred to hunt small game and rodents. They will go after cats and other small animals.

This medium sized breed was accepted into the American Kennel Club in 1944. They stand between sixteen to seventeen inches at the shoulder and weigh between 22-24 pounds. Basenji live an average of thirteen to fourteen years.

Basenji Characteristics

The basenji is known as a catlike canine. Fastidious in their cleanliness, they will groom themselves like a cat. Also like a cat, they dislike wet weather and will refuse to go out when it is damp and wet.

They have a short coat that comes in red, black, tri-color and brindle. They all have white chests, feet and tail tips. The breed is characterized by a tightly curled tail, wrinkles between their erect ears and expressive almond shaped eyes. They are equally long and tall, giving a square appearance to their body.

The basenji have a distinctive gait. They trot, almost like a racehorse. Like a spirited racehorse, they can be a challenge to train. The wild African dog in them makes them independent and free thinking. Start these dogs in obedience training as puppies.

They are quite agile and athletic. The basenji is able to jump and climb. Chain link fence and other obstacles are not deterrents to escape for them. They are good problem solvers and are able to stand on their hind legs, like a prairie dog, when motivated to reach a goal.

Basenjis will do well when raised with children from puppyhood, but is not generally known as a dog good with children. Unless this dog is raised with cats or other small animals that are recognized as family, he shouldn’t be left alone with them unsupervised. They will see them as prey.

These dogs can adapt to apartment life but will need to have enough exercise and playtime provided. They have high exercise needs. They do not have problems with separation and does well being left alone for long stretches. They tend to emotionally attach themselves to one person.

The popularity of this breed has remained relatively stable over the past decade. The AKC has them ranked 87^th out of 200 currently. Overall, the Basenji is a wonderful and unique dog. They make good pets for veteran and first time pet parents alike, but should go to an energetic home.

When shopping for a dog door, the Basenji will need a medium sized PlexiDor Dog Door. Our doors come in both a standard and an electronic model. The standard dog door provides access through walls, doors sliding glass doors, French doors and glass house doors. They are available in bronze, silver and white for walls and doors and bronze and white for glass.

We are so sure you’ll love your PlexiDor Dog Door, we offer a 90 day money back guarantee. Our standard door comes with a ten year warranty and the electronic model comes with a five year warranty. Contact out Customer Service Department for additional questions or call 888-PET-DOOR.

The “weiner dog” or dachshund is unmistakable in appearance with its long body on short, little legs. What the dachshund lacks in stature, she makes up for in personality and bravado. This spunky, curious and friendly dog was recognized as a breed by the American Kennel Club in 1885. However, this breed’s roots date back much before that.

The breed originated in Germany around 600 years ago as a hunting hound of badgers, foxes and rabbits. Dachshund literally means badger dog in German (“dachs” meaning badger and “hund” meaning dog). Their long and low body was custom made to dig out burrowing animals such as these. They were bred to be fierce and bold. This was a necessary trait to go up against their dangerous prey they located by scent. Doxies have a high prey drive still and a surprising “big dog” bark they used to be heard as they went subterranean.

Dachshund Appearance

There are two sizes of dachshund. The standard is eight to nine inches tall at the shoulder and will weigh between sixteen and thirty-two pounds. The miniature of the breed stands five to six inches tall and weighs less than eleven pounds. Dogs weighing between eleven and sixteen pounds are called “tweenies”. These are American standards. Germany has its own identifiers for the breed.

Doxies are most known for their short, smooth coat, but there are also long-haired and wire-haired varieties. They are vulnerable to the cold and should be kept in a sweater or coat in colder climates. No matter the type of coat, their fur comes in a wide range of colors from black to cream and anything in between. They may be one color or one of many different bi-color combinations.

Other Dachshund Facts

• Affectionate family dogs that live an average of twelve to sixteen years.
• They get along good with other dogs and have a tendency to bark, but not drool.
• They are better suited to older children and should be watched when around younger children.
• They are stubborn and independent which makes for a not-so-easy training experience despite their high intelligence.
• Dachshunds are prone to back injuries and should not be allowed to jump on or off furniture.
• There is a dachshund museum, the Kleine Residenz or “Small Residence”, in Passau, Germany.
• The 1972 Summer Olympics in Munich, Germany had a dachshund as its mascot named Waldi. This was the first official mascot of any Olympic games.

Your dachshund will need a medium (MD) size PlexiDor Dog Door. Contact our Customer Service Department or call 888-PET-DOOR for assistance finding an installer in your area and tips on installation for your uniquely short canine friend. We are always happy to help!

At what point do you need an extra large dog door by PlexiDor Dog Doors? When you have a “large” dog you may wonder just how large your dog door needs to be. Our standard large dog doors accommodate dogs between 40 and 100 pounds. The opening for your pet on a large dog door is 11 ¾” wide by 16” high.   Usually at about 100 pounds you will need an extra large dog door, but the real determining factor is your dog’s width and height.  So you always want to check that the opening will be comfortable for your pet.

PlexiDor Large Dog Door

The PlexiDor large dog door will accommodate a wide variety of breeds in many different shapes and statures including Labradors, Shepherds, Golden Retrievers, Boxers, Collies, Setters, Bulldogs, Pointers and Dobermans. This is not an exhaustive list, but will give you an idea of the dog types a large dog door will service. Be sure to measure your dog and be sure they can fit through the pet opening sizes shown in our sizing guide when deciding which PlexiDor Dog Door to purchase.  When in doubt, go larger.  A dog can’t use dog door too small for them, but a larger opening won’t be a problem and our saloon panel design is easy for small and extra large dogs to use. 

PlexiDor Extra Large Dog Door

When your canine friend weighs in above 100 pounds or is wider than 11 ¾” wide you will need an extra large dog door. This includes breeds such as Great Danes, St. Bernards, Rottweilers, Old English Sheepdogs, Newfoundlands, Irish Wolfhounds and Great Pyrenees. The extra large dog door opening is 15 ¾” wide by 23 5/8” high. 

The dog door always has to be installed high enough off the ground that your dog won’t have to crouch to get through the dog door and won’t hit their back as they go through the dog door.  So, you may also need a size XL if your tall dog has problems lifting their back legs, or if you expect that to be a problem when they get older.  In that case, the taller opening of the PlexiDor XL will allow you to mount the dog door closer to the ground, making it easier for your dog to use the dog door. 

Sometimes you need to get the size XL to accommodate the height differences between your dogs.  Perhaps you have a Jack Russell Terrier (low to the ground) and a Rottweiler.  You would need to get the size XL in this case to have the dog door at a height that works for the small dog and doesn’t hit the back of the large dog.  Our saloon style design makes it easy for even a small dog to use the size XL, so it works well for both of your pets.

The extra large dog door is sturdy and energy efficient just like our other dog doors. The acrylic panels are lined with a high density weather seal for maximum energy efficiency. They are manufactured in the United States and come with a 90-day money back guarantee. Our PlexiDor standard dog doors have a 10 year warranty.

Please contact our Customer Service Department with any questions on sizing or product or call 888-PET-DOOR. We look forward to hearing from you!

Heterochromia is the condition in which you see dogs with different colored eyes. This condition can be found among not only canines, but humans, cats, and horses too. It is often hereditary, although it can be the result of trauma or disease to the eye as well. Heterochromia is caused when there is a lack of pigment melanin in all or part of one eye.

Most dogs with hereditary heterochromia do not have any related health problems. However, acquired heterochromia can be a symptom of several eye conditions. If you notice your dog’s eye color changing, it is important to get them checked by a veterinarian.

Different Types of Heterochromia

There are three types of heterochromia:

• Heterochromia iridis – This is sometimes referred to as complete heterochromia. One eye is an altogether different color than the other.
• Central heterochromia – The blue coloring, or lack of pigment, radiates out from the pupil and mixes with another color. In the case of dogs, it would be brown.
• Sectoral heterochromia – The iris is only partially blue or without pigment. This type would present in two colors within one eye.

Instances of two different colored eyes are rare. Dogs with different colored eyes are not limited to specific breeds. It is possible for any type of dog to be born with two different colored eyes. However, this condition is more prevalent among certain breeds than others.

Dogs With Different Colored Eyes

Australian Shepherd

Australian Cattle Dog

Dachshund

Border Collie

Chihuahua

Dalmatian  These dogs with different colored eyes have a higher prevalence of deafness among them.

Great Dane

Shetland Sheepdog

Siberian Husky

Dogs with different colored eyes, or heterochromia, is unique and memorable. In most cases, it is not a cause for alarm. It’s just a topic of conversation next time you are at the dog park!

PlexiDor Dog Doors supports regular visits with your vet for pet wellness and staying current with your pet’s vaccines and other regular health maintenance.

When you are looking to add a new fur baby to your family, consider adoption from a local shelter or pound. There are great reasons to adopt a shelter pet over buying one from a store or a breeder. Below are a few of the basics.

Reasons To Adopt a Shelter Pet

Lower Your Costs – One fiscal reason for adopting a pet instead of buying one is that, typically, pets for adoption from shelters and rescue groups are already spayed or neutered, vaccinated and microchipped. Those services can cost hundreds of dollars, and when you adopt a pet, you not only save a life, but you save a lot of money as well.

Save a Life – By adopting, you are giving a great animal a second chance at life. Many have been rescued from a bad situation or their previous owners could simply no longer care for them. Some are not so lucky as to be adopted. Some shelters have to euthanise due to lack of space. So adopt and save a life!

Housetrained – Many of the animals at shelters and pound are already housetrained. They have been worked with by staff and caregivers to know proper bathroom habits. This saves you a lot of time and effort.

Unexpected companion – You may know what pet you are looking for, but when you get to a shelter you may fall in love with someone you never expected. The fun thing about choices is it opens your mind to possibilities.

Consider pet adoption next time you are considering extending your family. There are many reasons to adopt a shelter pet beyond the four mentioned above. Remember to keep your options open and you will find the perfect companion.

PlexiDor Dog Doors has a perfect solution for every dog owner to keep the weather out and allow the dog access to the outdoors at their discretion. Check out our dog door solutions or contact our Customer Service team at 888-PET-DOOR with any questions.

Perhaps one of the most recognizable of all dogs is the spotted Dalmatian. They were made famous in Disney’s “101 Dalmatians” where an evil woman stole Dalmatian puppies intending to make a fur coat out of them. A better use for the bright and loyal Dalmatian is an affectionate family dog for today’s active family. Dalmatians are noble, clever and outgoing and make wonderful family pets.

Dalmatians are predominantly white with spots of black or liver. These are good sized dogs, standing 19-24 inches tall at the shoulder and weighing 45-70 pounds, depending on the sex. Females are smaller than males. These dogs have an average lifespan between eleven and thirteen years.

Dalmatian puppies are born without spots. They grow into their spots. Be sure to introduce your new pup to new and unusual, but pleasant situations early to prepare them for all that life has to offer. Acclimating your dog to various situations and happenings at a young age makes for a more well-rounded adult dog.

Dalmatian History

The origin story of the Dalmatian is largely unknown. By the early 1800s, they were associated with a part of Central Europe near the Adriatic Sea once known as Dalmatia. They trotted alongside the caravans of the nomadic Romani people and protected their coaches.

Later British nobles used the Dalmatian in their liveries and gave it the nickname the “English Coach Dog”. Dals were used by firefighters in the 1800s in both Europe and America alike when horses pulled fire engines. They entered the AKC Stud Book in 1888.

The loving Dalmatian needs early training and socialization. They don’t like to be alone for long periods of time and want to be included in all family activities. They desire to be a true part of your family.  

Dalmatians have a unique urinary system with special requirements to prevent medical complications. They need a low protein diet and constant availability to fresh water. They should be able to urinate frequently as they need to flush out their system and maintain health.

These “horse dogs” are intelligent and easy to train. Dalmatians are muscular and have great stamina that allows them to keep up with a coach on long journeys. They have a powerful, effortless stride and make good watchdogs. They are not known to be barkers.

The Dalmatian would not be considered high maintenance in terms of grooming. Only an occasional bath and weekly brushing is required. This breed does tend to shed a lot. More frequent brushings may help keep the hair off the floor. Their ears hang low and will need regular checking and cleaning to maintain proper health.

The Dalmatian is high maintenance in terms of their exercise needs. They were built to run alongside coaches and carriages over long distances. All of that energy needs to be expended in today’s world, with or without horse-drawn carriages. Dalmatians must have adequate daily exercise to prevent behavior problems.

They make great dogs for an active family; perhaps with runners, hikers or bikers. The Dalmatian would also be excellent in a sport like agility or flyball. They do well with a rewards-based training system. They are very sensitive animals and do not respond well to punishments and harsh tones. While known as a coach dog, they have also been used for hunting, in firehouses and been seen as circus performers, as well as the household pet.

The Dalmatian would require a large PlexiDor Dog Door in either the standard or electronic model. Our doors provide easy access through a door, wall, sliding glass door, glass house door, French door or window. Contact our Customer Service Department or call 888-PETDOOR with questions.

Dogs eat things they shouldn’t. It’s a fact. Unfortunately, sometimes it includes some of the most poisonous plants for dogs. While this is not a complete list, all eleven of these make PetMD’s list of plants to avoid, among others.

What Are Some Poisonous Plants for Dogs?

• Tulips (tulipa) – These beautiful springtime bulbs cause gastrointestinal symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea and stomach pain. They have also been responsible for central nervous system depression, convulsions, and even death. The flowers and stem are toxic, but the bulb is especially dangerous. Most bulb plants are toxic to dogs; including amaryllis, gladiolus, daffodil, garlic and onion.

• Azalea (Rhododendron) – These spectacular flowering bushes often used in hedges cause gastrointestinal issues, discoordination, a weak heart rate or arrhythmia, low blood pressure, drooling, muscle weakness, and can be potentially fatal. All parts of the plant are toxic – the flowers, leaves, seeds, and the honey made from the nectar. Rhododendrons are among the most poisonous plants for dogs.

• Sago Palm (Cycas revoluta) – This is an indoor plant to be cautious of. It can cause gastrointestinal problems, tremors, seizures, and possible liver failure. All parts of the palm are toxic, but the seeds are the most dangerous. The sago palm is one of the most poisonous plants for dogs.

• Oleander (Nerium oleander) – This hardy, low maintenance flowering shrub is popular in backyards and public spaces alike. Along with the typical gastrointestinal issues, ingestion can cause lethargy, liver failure, and possible death. It interferes with the heart’s ability to beat properly. Immediate care from a veterinary hospital is essential for recovery. All parts of the plant are highly toxic for dogs.

• Yew (Taxus) – This common evergreen is typically found outdoors. Every part of this plant is toxic including the red berries and can cause sudden death. Other symptoms include trembling, muscle weakness, trouble breathing, collapse, and heart problems. Yew is highly toxic and among the most poisonous plants for dogs.

• English Ivy (Hedera helix) – This woody vine can act as a ground cover or climb up a wall or along a fence. While all parts are toxic, the toxin as especially concentrated in the leaves. The sap may cause skin irritation and ingesting the leaves causes drooling and gastrointestinal distress.

• Lily of the Valley (Convallaria majalis) – This flowering plant can be seen indoors and outdoors depending on climate. All parts of the lily plant are toxic. Ingestion can cause vomiting, irregular heartbeat, reduced blood pressure, confusion and disorientation. Severe seizures or coma have occurred as well.

• Castor Bean (Ricinus communis) – This semi-woody evergreen tree is less popular in backyards and is more often found in parks and large landscape projects. It also grows wild in the Southeast region of the United States. The beans of this plant are used to make castor oil and just a few can be fatal. If ingested, it will cause drooling and gastrointestinal issues. Severe cases may see muscle twitching, tremors, seizures or even coma. Castor bean is an extremely poisonous plant for dogs.

• Cyclamen (Cyclamen) – Cyclamen is commonly found as a houseplant, although it is found in gardens in appropriate climates as well. When the main parts of the plant are eaten, it can cause drooling, vomiting, and diarrhea. If the roots are ingested, it can affect the heart rate and rhythms and may cause death. This colorful plant with its upright blooms is one of the most poisonous plants for dogs.

• Dumb Cane (diffenbachia) – This is a tropical flowering indoor plant with large leaves. All parts of the plant contain needle-shaped calcium oxalate crystals which are similar to microscopic pieces of glass. Chewing or ingesting these will cause vomiting, swelling of the mouth and throat, severe oral pain, pawing at the mouth or eyes, severe skin irritation, coughing, gagging, and/or drooling. In fact, merely coming in contact with the leaves or other parts of this plant can cause symptoms as well.

• Chrysanthemum (chrysanthemum) – Chrysanthemums, including daisies, are popular indoor and outdoor annuals, depending on the species. These cause vomiting, diarrhea, skin rash and drooling if ingested. All parts of the plant are toxic, particularly the flowers.

Again, this is not a full list of plants toxic to dog. There are many other common plants you may have in your home or backyard that could pose a threat to your dog. Familiarize yourself with your plants against the list and checkout potential problems before they become big issues.

In case of accidental poisoning: ASPCA Poison Control

PlexiDor Dog Doors wishes everyone a happy and healthy summer. Before you give your dog unlimited access to the backyard with a PlexiDor Dog Door, ensure the yard is free from toxic plants. Happy gardening!

The weather is warming up and it’s a perfect time of year to get out and about with your favorite canine companion. Picnicking with the pooch can be a fun and relaxing way to spend time together. We have compiled some tips for a dog friendly picnic that are sure to make your next outing a success!

Tips for a Dog Friendly Picnic

• Choose a Dog Friendly Location – Of course, make sure the place you are picnicking allows dogs. Dogs are not welcome in all locations, so check before you go. Once there, check the vicinity for any potential dangers for your dog like trash, bones and toxic plants. Dogs can become very ill from ingesting certain plants like rhododendrons, lilies, tulips, azaleas and sago palm.
• Shade and Sunscreen – Choose a location with plenty of shade available or bring your own with a pop-up canopy or tarp. Remember, dogs can sunburn too, especially light furred and thin haired dogs. Generously apply sunscreen to noses, ears and bellies.
• Bring Toys – Keep your dog occupied with toys. A bored dog can be a nuisance at best and destructive at the worst. Perhaps choose toys you can play with together.

• Lots of Water – You will need plenty of water and a bowl. Playing in the hot sun can work up a tremendous thirst. Be sure you bring along enough water for everyone at the picnic.
• Poop Bags – I can’t stress this enough. Don’t forget the poop bags! One of the most important tips for a dog friendly picnic is to keep the area nice for the next picnickers.
• Insect Repellant – Even with all that fur, your fur baby is susceptible to mosquito bites. There are a ton of natural bug sprays on the market for dogs made with essential oils.
• Bring Food – Since this is a picnic and the purpose of the picnic is to share food with friends. Why not bring along all dog friendly foods and share with your best friend? Unseasoned turkey or chicken is an excellent choice. Prepare carrots, blueberries, apples, and other fruits and vegetables safe for dogs.
• Walk the Dog – Be sure to exercise your dog prior to the picnic. He will be excited leaving the house and have energy to let out. Sitting still at a picnic site may not be the best plan for an excited dog. Let him stretch his legs first and you will both have a better time.

• Bring Dog Treats – What picnic is complete without dessert? While you are having yours, give Fido something special too. Maybe a favorite treat or a long-lasting chew.
• Leash and Tags – Even at an off-leash park, you should bring a leash for those “just in case” situations. Otherwise, you can use the leash to tether your dog while you’re eating or your attention is elsewhere. Anytime your dog is outside of your home she should be wearing a collar with ID tags.
• Grab a Blanket – A blanket is multi-purpose. It can be a bed for the dog or a towel if they get wet. Be sure to bring a separate blanket for the picnic spread.

With these tips for a dog friendly picnic and a beautiful day, you are sure to have a great time. Nothing beats good food and fun spent with great friends and there is no better friend than your dog. So, let’s get out there and enjoy the weather.

PlexiDor Dog Doors believes all dogs should have access to the outdoors as often as they need through superior quality, energy efficient dog doors. Our doors come in standard and electronic models in small through extra-large for dogs from Teacup Poodles to Great Danes. Contact our Customer Service Department or call 888-PETDOOR for your questions.

Each dog breed has its own unique characteristics and traits that may make it a better choice for one person or family, more so another. Some dogs are better suited to an individual owner or better around adults than children. Other dogs are good choices for first time dog owners. While others may be only suitable for seasoned handlers. The following are the worst dog breeds around kids.

Some dog breeds just don’t do well with younger children; specifically ages younger than 13. It may be their smaller size resembles prey or that they interact too roughly with the dog. Perhaps the breed is just aggressive and children should be monitored around these dogs at anytime.

Our Top 8 Worst Dog Breeds Around Kids in No Particular Order

Akita – A male Akita weighs in at an average 115 lbs. They are a strong, muscled dog with a dominant personality that tends to be territorial. They were bred as guard dogs and coupled with their wariness of strangers they are wonderful in that capacity. They are not good with unfamiliar people and can be a problem if playdates and other guests come over to the house. They can be difficult to train and are not recommended for new dog owners.  

Alaskan Malamute – These dogs were bred for the Alaskan wilderness. Alaskan Malamutes are still a bit wolf like and possess an exceptional prey instinct. They may play too rough with small children. It is not recommended to leave them unattended around small children. Although, in many cultures these dogs are raised side by side children and there is no incident of injury. This is a breed for an experienced dog handler and owner as they can be difficult to train.  

Chihuahua – As a very small dog, this breed may sometimes feel threatened and have a tendency to be aggressive; complete with barking, growling and baring of teeth. They are a nervous animal and are easily provoked, which is not good around the sudden movements and loud noises associated with kids. Possessive of your time and attention, they may be jealous of small kids and the amount of your time they command. Chihuahuas are loud barkers and yowlers. This does not mesh well for young kids and babies who need naps. Also, they are a fragile dog and not built for the rough handling and play of small children.

Siberian Husky – Bred to be sled dogs in a harsh climate, they have been known to revert to their inner wolf. They are mistrustful of new things, weird movements, unpredictable noises, and most events that take place in a lively household. A household with small kids usually includes darting around, crying out loudly and rough play. A Siberian Husky may attack children as though they were a prey animal. Bites can even be completely unprovoked.

Rottweiler – Rottweilers have had a bad reputation for violent outbursts and bites. These dogs can attack and bite with little warning. Their mood seems to change without provocation. They do not do well around strangers, small animals or small children. They have been known to lash if out they feel uncomfortable. Children can impede on their territory or anger them and have been bit.

Chow Chow – This dog was bred to take down predators. They are powerful for their size. Known to be antisocial and aloof, they do not care for strangers or change. They do not adapt well to busy households with a lot going on.  The Chow Chow can be unpredictable in their actions. You must make it clear from the beginning you own the dog and not the other way around.

Pekingese – The Pekingese expects to be pampered. There may not be enough attention to go around for both the children and the dog. So, the dog may end up in a competition for your attention and be jealous of and angry with the kids. This jealousy and anger makes them among the worst dog breeds around kids.

Pekinese bite and yip when they feel threatened. Due to their small size, they often demonstrate possessive behavior over food and toys. These dogs don’t appreciate poking, prodding or tail pulling and they are not tolerant of it at all.

Weimaraner – Weimaraners were bred to hunt large game like deer and bear. As such their rough housing can get carried away with children, even larger ones. These dogs require lots of attention and a set routine with lots of exercise and play or they can become nervous and excitable. This need for strict routine may not be a good choice for a family with a hectic, ever changing schedule.

Whatever the reason, when deciding upon a dog for a forever friend, consider your life and living situation before choosing. If you have or will have small children, these breeds may not be the best options for you. Of the breeds recognized by the AKC, they are the worst dog breeds around kids and are not recommended for families.

PlexiDor Dog Doors offers freedom to the backyard with our standard and electronic dog doors designed for walls, doors, siding glass, French doors and glass house doors. Contact our Customer Service Department with any questions or call 888-PETDOOR.

The Australian Cattle Dog is an extremely alert, active, and loyal dog. They are very high energy as they were originally bred as a working dog on large, cattle ranches. They are protective of their people and wary of strangers. This breed can make a good family pet, but is not recommended for first time dog owners.

Australian Cattle Dogs or ACDs are a medium-sized dog that stands 17-20 inches at the shoulder, depending on sex, with females being smaller. On average, they can weigh between thirty-five and fifty pounds. Their average life span is from twelve to sixteen years. Being naturally curious and highly intelligent, they need to be kept mentally stimulated to keep boredom at bay.

Boredom can lead to mischief. It is best if they participate in hard work, a sport like agility or flyball, or regular extreme exercise to keep them mentally and physically fit. They need something to do on-a-daily basis, to tire them out. As a working dog, they need a job to do to stay happy and healthy.

Australian Cattle Dog History

The Australian Cattle Dog was bred to herd cattle in the fledgling continent of Australia. Nineteenth century settlers quickly found the herding dogs from England, the Smithfield Sheepdog, was not suited to the hot, arid climate and challenging terrain of Australia. Smithfield Sheepdogs were bred with Australia’s wild dog, the Dingo, in an attempt to find a hardier herding dog.

Subsequent Australian settlers crossbred other dog breeds with the dingo and with the Smithfield/dingo crossbreed; including the Black and Tan Kelpie, Scottish Highland Collie and Dalmatian. In 1903, The Kennel Club of New South Wales approved the standard for the Blue Heeler (that is now known as the Australian Cattle Dog) established by Robert Kaleski. The breed, also referred to as the Australian or Queensland Heeler, was admitted to the American Kennel Club in 1980.

The word “heeler” refers to the method in which they herd. They nip or bite at the heels of the cattle. These dogs were instrumental in growing the beef industry in Australia. Without the development of this breed, the beef industry would not have been possible as it is now. All the other breeds brought from abroad were not up to the task of ranching in the new continent.

Strong, agile and sturdy these pups easily handle traversing the rugged, rocky and arid topography of the Australian Outback where these large cattle ranches can be found. Their short, smooth double-layer coat gave them protection from the sun and was short to prevent overheating.

ACD Grooming

Their undercoat sheds in tufts twice a year. During this two to three week period, they will need to be brushed with a short bristled brush or comb every couple of days. The rest of the year they require minimal grooming. They just need a weekly brush and occasional bath when they get smelly.

Australian Cattle Dogs are born white and grow into their colorings. They will either turn a “red” or “blue”. The “red” colored dogs are white with brown showing through, giving them a red appearance. The “blue” dogs are white with black showing through, giving them a blue appearance. They are sometimes referred to as the Red Heeler and Blue Heeler respectively.

The ACD or Australian Cattle Dog has gone by many names over the years, but has always been a hard-working, intelligent, fiercely loyal, energetic breed. They are happiest with a mentally stimulating physical task to do to ward off boredom. They are pleasant, muscular dogs that like to spend time with their owners and need lots of exercise. They do not make good first-time pets and recommended for experienced pet parents. Expect to be active and kept on your toes with this breed in the house.

PlexiDor Dog Doors reminds you to consider adopting from a shelter or rescue when choosing a dog. There are rescues specifically for Australian Cattle Dogs who need a good home because their previous owners were not able to care for them for some reason. When getting a dog from a breeder be sure to check references and papers. Only buy from reputable breeders that have bred healthy dogs.

The ACD would need either a medium or large PlexiDor Dog Door depending on his or her size. Our doors come in standard and electronic models designed for walls, exterior doors, French doors, glass house doors, and sliding glass doors. Contact our Customer Service Department with any questions or call 888-PETDOOR to find out more.

Training your best friend for the dog agility course obstacles requires a close relationship and a lot of trust between yourself and your dog. Agility is a team sport. While there are specific guidelines for AKC agility course competitions, there are more laid-back ways to get involved and to compete with your pooch as well. You need not necessarily have a specific breed of dog or register with the AKC to enjoy the benefits and fun of dog agility.

Dog agility is quickly growing in popularity for both participants and spectators. A dog agility course consists of 14-20 obstacles. There is a limited amount of time to complete the course and in the proper sequence of obstacles. A judge will decide which obstacles will be used in the course.

The course must consist of four standard obstacles and the rest can be of the judge’s choosing. The obstacles can be in any order the judge likes. Strong non-verbal communication between the handler and the dog is essential to run the course accurately and within the allotted time.

The 4 Standard Dog Agility Course Obstacles

• A-Frame – This obstacle is two panels placed together in a triangle shape at a standard height of 5 feet 6 inches, that the dog runs up and then down the other side. The panel is between 35 and 49 inches wide.

• Tunnel – The dogs may go through an open or closed tunnel. This refers to the ends of the tunnel. There are different specifications for open tunnels versus closed tunnels according to AKC regulations.

• Seesaw – Similar to a child’s teeter-totter, this is a 12-inch wide and 12 foot long plank on a fulcrum the dog must negotiate.

The seesaw can be the scariest obstacle as it moves under their feet. It is recommended you begin to train this obstacle using something low to the ground, like a skateboard or child’s wagon. You can also create and use a balance board. A balance board is made with a piece of plywood the size of the dog’s stance and a brick or small ball that is placed underneath to make it unsteady.

• Weave Poles – Here dogs weave to the left and to the right between poles set up approximately two feet apart, depending on the style of course.

The weave poles are the most challenging of the dog agility course obstacles to teach. There are many different approaches to teaching this skill and you will likely need expert help on the training. To get started at home you can place plant stakes in the ground 2 feet apart. Be sure your dog enters the poles between the 1st and 2nd poles from the left side.

Additionally, teach your dog tricks that will enhance his flexibility. These tricks would include spins, bows and weaving figure eights. Practicing these maneuvers will get them ready for weaving through the weave poles.

Other Dog Agility Course Obstacles

Dog Walks, including Crossovers and Tower configurations

Jump Configurations

Pause Tables and Pause Boxes

Sway Planks and Bridges

Hoop Jumps

The dog agility course obstacles described above are the most common and typically standard in an agility course. There are, of course, many more obstacles than four in any one course. Agility courses come in all types of configurations and difficulty levels. They are also built for different height and skill level dogs.

PlexiDor Dog Doors encourages you to spectate an agility competition for yourself, if you have not already. See what all the fuss is about. PlexiDor manufactures standard and electronic dog doors for small to extra-large dogs. Contact our Customer Service department or call 888-PETDOOR with any questions on our products.

A dog’s tail is an extension of their spine. Some are more flexible than others. Some are particularly curly, while others are very short and straight or almost non-existent. While there are many different dogs and different tails, there are six that are more common dog tail types than others. Let us take a look at the tail types and some of the breeds that exhibit these tails.

Common Dog Tail Types and Breeds with That Type Tail

• Bobbed Tail – Due to natural genetic mutation the tail is unusually short or missing completely. This can be seen in a number of breeds including the Pembroke Welsh Corgi, Australian Shepherd, Brittany Spaniel, Jack Russell Terrier, and Schipperke.

A Docked Tail is different in that it is not naturally occurring. The Docked Tail is surgically altered to be short. This is seen in Dobermans, Boxers and English Pointers. Although this practice is less popular today than it was and is seen more with working dogs for safety purposes.

• Ring, Curly, Corkscrew and Snap Tails – These all have one thing in common. They all have completely curled tails.  The tail may curl over the spine or off to one side like the Finnish Spitz, Keeshond, American Eskimo or a Schipperke with a tail. Some tails are short and twisted in a spiral fashion such as the French Bulldog, Pug, Bulldog and Basenji.
• Sickle Tail – This tail curves up over the back toward the head of the dog in a semi-circle. This is not a full curl. Dogs with this type of tail are the Affenpinscher, Akita, Chihuahua, Chow Chow, Malamute, Pomeranian, Siberian Husky, and Samoyed.
• Otter or Swimmer Tail – This tail is thick at the base and round and tapering toward tip. It points straight out and down. These tails are used like a rudder while swimming for the Labrador Retriever, Chesapeake Bay Retriever, and Otterhound.
• Carrot Tail – These tails are carried stiffly straight and pointed out or down. They are like an Otter Tail, but thinner and point up. These breeds used to hunt underground prey and the farmer would pull them out of the holes by their tails. Dogs exhibiting this tail are the Bull Terrier, West Highland Terrier, and Scottish Terrier.
• Whip Tail – This common tail type is longer than a Carrot Tail and more flexible with a slight curve at the end. Manchester Terriers, Border Terriers, Dachshunds, Dalmatians, and English Setters all have this type tail.

The above highlight the most common dog tail types. No matter what tail your pooch has, give them the freedom to come and go as they please with a PlexiDor Dog Door. They come in standard and electronic models and sizes to fit Teacup Poodles to Great Danes. Contact our Customer Service department or call 888-PETDOOR with any questions today!