If you are a die-hard doggie fanatic, you've probably watched pup based TV shows such as National Geographic's Dog Whisperer on any given Friday night. While we average Joe pet lovers may not have the training or credentials to land us our own primetime series, we come equipped with all the inklings of a dog whisper in the making.
Want to know what your own dog is saying? Read on to decode each behavior, woof and ruff all without ever turning on the boob tube.
The Shoe Nibbler Ok. This one is for all your femme fatales with poodles who haven't quite figured out that Jimmy Choos are not chew toys. If you've got a young pup, chewing . . . unfortunately, is just a simple step in growing up. You know, much like your own young destructive phase. Yea. You know the one. Remember those years your room was so messy you could have hidden a few cars or dead bodies on the floor and no one would have noticed? However, if you have an old dog and the nibbling is new it could be a cry for attention. Has there been a change in your life? A new baby in the mix? A new beau who takes Fluffy's side of the sofa? Then chances are this little shoe nibbler is saying one of two things "Show me some attention!" or "Get off my sofa or else, bucko!"
The Leash Leader
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Does your Great Dane drag you down the street? Feel like you're the one on the leash? When your dog takes off without you while out for a walk he's not just acting up, he's trying to tell you something. This kind of behavior says, "Our relationship is off balance." and "I'm the leader of the pack."
Wild dogs by nature run in packs with one leader. Your unruly Chow Chow has that same DNA programmed into his being. You are the leader of the pack and when your dog takes you for a leash ride, it's time to listen up and take your place as the head "pup."
The Stranger Bark Does your furry friend growl like mad at the mailman or eagerly chase the wheels of every car that passes your place? If these animal antics are familiar to your family, than your pup is telling outsiders to be warned. "This is my family! Stay away!"
While many dogs will bark at any stranger that comes too close for comfort, some otherwise friendly dogs are an uncanny judge of character. In fact there are many true life stories that tell the tale of dogs who instinctively barked at their owners assailant days before the actual attack - some in passing on the street, others while hearing a knock at the door. When a dog is truly uneasy and weary of someone around you, he will place himself between you and that person. When you aren't sure if you're dog is showing out or going into protective mode the best thing to do is assume that it's the latter and get away as quickly as possible. It might just save your life.
The Multi-Personality Pooch Is your puppy well behaved around strangers but behind closed doors tries to gnaw your hands or ankles? Just like us, puppies have a certain comfort level. For instance, while you might not wear sweat pants in front of your boss, you certainly don't mind vegging out the sofa with your sister. If you have a multi-personality pooch often times his behavior is saying "I can be myself around you." And while the teeth marks on your leg might not be flattering, what they are trying to say is.
When it comes to understanding your pooch, the important thing to remember is that just like a hand-stitched quilt, no two pups are alike. The longer you know your pooch the easier it becomes to figure out what each of his moods, "voices" and actions mean. However, if you notice unusual behavior in your dog, don't be afraid to ask questions. Talk to your veterinarian. They will help you decode their unusual behaviors and get them back to feeling tail wagging wonderful in no time at all.
The pet industry is a booming industry due to human attachment to our four-legged friends. Pet owners, especially dog owners, have created an industry for dog beds that fall short in comparison to the bedding industry for humans in creativity, assortment and profit. Some people are so attached to their pets that they shop for their dogs' bed with the same tenacity as if they were shopping for their own bed.
There are many different kinds of dog beds available in the markets which vary according to their size, comfort, design, quality and cost. Just as there are various different breeds of dogs, there are various beds to choose from. Just as dogs come in a variety of sizes -- from a toy Chihuahuas to Great Danes who would demand a large enough bed. The very basic features for the design of today's dog beds require comfort and ease of cleaning for the small, medium, large and extra large pooch in your life. There is also a varying array of options for dog beds, such as dog beds designed to look like real beds, designed to look like real furniture, and a designed to accommodate the older geriatric dog, such as orthopedic dog beds and heated dog beds. There are dog beds made out of different fabrics, colors and textures- designed to blend in with the décor of your home.
Dogs simply love the shape and feel of that perfect bed which also provides them with a sense of security. Watching television will certainly become a more enjoyable experience if you get your dog a bed- you can watch your favorite television program with much less disturbance than before. A pet can be as important as a child to some owners, and making sure they sleep well is a way to repay them for their unconditional love. Today manufacturers have started to fill a growing demand for dog beds for pet owners who want to lavish their pets.
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Do you have problems on how to give your child the pet dog without causing them future trouble? This article will grant their wish through TrainPetDog.com and choose Dog Breeds for Children.
Like humans, dogs have different behavioral characteristics that need special attention by the owners. Identifying the cause of the behavioral act of your pet dogs will help you understand your pet. In knowing the different breeds of dogs will give help in identifying dog manners. Pet dogs are best trained while they are puppies. There are varieties of dog breeds for you to choose with. Identify some of the dog breeds that will fit your children are:
Hound dogs
These breed of dogs are hunting dogs which are very loyal to their masters. This breed of dog can run long distance in a short span of time. They have great energy and stamina. They are one of the best breeds of dogs.
Toy dogs
These breeds consist of toy-sized dogs. These dogs will immediately touch a person's heart at first glance. These dogs are suitable for people who live in apartments and small living spaces. These dogs will give you pleasure because they are lively, entertaining and very loyal. Although these dogs are small and are very lovable, be aware that this breed of dog are tough and are likely to attempt on dogs that are bigger than their size.
Terrier dogs
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This breed of dog is popular for their loyalty. They are naturally high-spirited, energetic, protective, feisty, and loves to dig and bark. They also have little patience to any other animal causing you to have difficulty in owning more pets around. They will pursue them with their killing intentions.
Working dog breed
These breed of dogs are specialized to guard property, sled pulling and water rescue. They are a valuable asset to humans. They comprise the large size of dogs. They have huge frames, good muscles and can weigh up to 100-130 pounds. There are others reach up to 200 pounds. Dane Dogs are included in this group.
Herding dog breed
This breed of dog comprises the sheep dogs and cattle dogs. They are capable in controlling the movement of the other animal. They can lead a herd of cows that is bigger than their size to pasture through leaping and nipping at their heels. Some herding dogs guide by circling the animals while others are" heelers".
Sporting Dog Breed
These dogs are very active and love to be outdoors and are bred to be hunting companions. Pointers, retrievers, setters and spaniels belong to this breed of dogs. They are of high energy and active minds. Some of this breed loves water. They love to swim, work and play.
Non sporting dog breeds
These breeds of dogs are strong animals with variety of personalities and appearances. They are very affectionate and lively. They are widely known as the ultimate buddy breed. Frequent bathing, brushing and grooming is necessary. Most of them are sensitive to heat.
These are the different breeds of dogs that can help you choose to grant the desires of your children. Avail these different kinds of dogs. Dogs are very lovable and are helpful to the people. They can be the alternatives to be your child's buddy and will give them pleasure. Dogs are known as man's best friend. Your child can have their pet buddy through Dog Breeds for Children - TrainPetDog.com and select variety of trained dog breeds. They can help you choose your lovable pet dog and make your children happy.
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Plaque builds up in your dog's teeth just like they do in your own. You, however, brush your teeth at least twice a day, whereas your dog does not. When plaque has been present in their teeth for a long period of time, they start to turn into tartar and tartar could pose some health risk for your dog. As it increases, it can go deep under your dog's gums and can carry with them some harmful bacteria which could destroy your dog's gums or bring them some disease. So what are the necessary steps for doggie mouth hygiene? They might seem so complicated, but they not. Here are some simple steps that you can take to better care for your dog's teeth.
* Brush you dog's teeth for at least twice a week. Avoid using your own personal toothpaste for your canine simply because they possess a good sense of taste. A tiny amount of that icy cool toothpaste is going to drive your dog crazy and may cause them to be afraid of the teeth cleaning session. Use some specially made dog toothpaste to do the job for you. They can be easily bought at your local pet store. Brushing will keep plaque in a minimum and it will also be a good bonding activity with your dog.
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* Feed your dog some dog biscuits. It is good for them. This crunchy stuff actually cleans your dog's teeth by rubbing against their teeth.
* Give them also some dental chews if you cannot brush their teeth regularly.
* Get some dentistry services for your dog at your veterinarian's clinic. Your dog's teeth can be cleaned, pulled, capped, or filled just like yours. They are quite expensive so if you would like to escape the cost, better start brushing their teeth on your own.
If you do not take care of your dog's teeth or they do not get any professional cleaning, chances are, they are going to develop mouth diseases. These could range from gingivitis, which makes the gums to appear red and swollen, to serious infection which could affect your dog's other internal organs. When these enter through the bloodstream, it may be quite difficult to treat them. You owe it to your dog to take care of their dental health. They will only be of any good to you if you keep them in a strong and healthy condition.
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Feeding dry food, providing crunchy treats and allowing the regular supervised chewing of American Beefhide Chew Treats will allow the passive cleaning of your dog's teeth. Actively brushing your dog's teeth will keep your best friend's dental health in check.
Routine exam of your dog's teeth and removal of build up of tart
The opportunity to care for a pet makes for a very fulfilling activity and can bring about plenty of fond memories. A pet is a companion that is able to listen unflinchingly, brings joy when you're feeling down, and provides a great degree of loyalty all throughout its life. No wonder pets have always been one of the perfect means of reducing stress levels among people.
Dogs and cats have always been on the top of the list of favorites among people of all ages. This discussion is focusing on dogs and the correct means of dog care. Dogs share a pack mentality with a strong bond for its owner. The dog has been labeled as man's best friend. This is due to the fact that dogs have consistently shown a great, and sometimes sacrificial, form of loyalty for their owners putting to shame even fellow human beings. Proper care and plenty of love will ensure a happy environment for the dog and the family.
Dog care begins while the dog is still a puppy. Making the decision to care for a puppy is a big responsibility. Dog owners are expected to raise their dogs with the right love and care so as to instill good and desirable traits. It is totally unacceptable to be negligent just because of a lack of interest. Too many sad stories of abandoned dogs have already been going around.
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A puppy is given proper dog care by teaching it to know who the family members are and house training. Positive reinforcement plays an integral role in instilling discipline and proper dog care. Harsh methods only make things worse and do little in teaching pups to be well-behaved.
Feeding is a very crucial element of dog care. Feeding times should be kept as constant as possible. Since a puppy is in the growing stage, proper nutrition is extremely important. Feeding times slowly get reduced as the puppy grows older. Clean water should always be readily available at all times.
Puppies will inevitably cause accidents with their droppings. Potty training will serve to teach the pup where to properly relieve itself as long as it is done properly. It is this aspect of pet care that some people actually find very tedious yet this is part of the responsibility in dog care. A dog cannot be expected to pick up afterward after all.
If possible, avoid the use of spanking as a means of discipline. Dogs want to win your approval and desire nothing but to please so be patient when they make mistakes. A firm "No" is enough to keep the dog in check. Rewarding of good behavior will hasten the dog's learning so be consistent with this as well.
Dog care is very much similar to raising a human baby. Proper instruction and love will let a dog grow up as a loving member of the family. A faithful dog is able to give much of itself without expecting anything but your approval.
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The only real dogs are big dogs. Perhaps only a large dog could have made the incredible journey from Scotland to Yorkshire Lassie undertook in "Lassie Come Home." The original Lassie movie was not only the best Lassie film, but one of the greatest children's films ever made. It starred a very young Elizabeth Taylor and Roddy McDowall. The faithful and determined Lassie was played by a Rough Collie named Pal. If you are considering buying or adopting a large dog, it is important to research the different dog breeds beforehand. Each dog breed has different characteristics and only the right ones will be the right fit for your family and home.
Labrador Retriever- These wonderful family and sporting dogs can be yellow, black or chocolate in color. Labs are intelligent, versatile and friendly dogs. They are good around children and other dogs. Their coat is not long, but it is a double coat so they require regular grooming. Labs are large and active dogs, so having a yard would be preferable.
German Shepherd- The famous Rin Tin Tin was rescued from WWI France and brought to the US where he starred in many movies. Rin Tin Tin IV later starred in the 1950's TV series "The Adventures of Rin Tin Tin." Today this breed is often employed as police, guard and service dogs, though they can also be loyal family dogs. These dogs are big and strong and possess a herding instinct, so good training is essential. This highly trainable and dependable breed requires regular grooming and exercise.
Collie- Rough Collies and Smooth Collies are considered varieties of the same breed in the US and Canada, while in the UK they are considered separate breeds. Other breeds of collie include the medium sized Border Collie, and the Bearded Collie (15th breed below). Smooth Collies have short hair while Rough Collies have a gorgeous, full coat. Today, Rough and Smooth Collies are primarily family and show dogs, unlike their herding ancestors. With training, they can be great with children and other pets. These gentle and intelligent dogs require regular exercise and grooming. The Smooth Collie actually requires more grooming even though it has shorter hair.
Golden Retriever- Like Labs, Goldens are great family dogs, hunting retrievers, and versatile service dogs. Goldens have longer hair, having a beautiful double coat that can be various shades of gold. They require more regular grooming. Highly intelligent, gentle and friendly, this breed is an ideal family pet. These dogs are very good with children and other dogs and pets. This is an active breed that likes companionship and regular exercise. Having a yard is preferable.
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Rottweiler- When you hear a ‘ruff' or ‘bark' from behind you, be assured it is not a Rottweiler; this breed is only capable of saying ‘woof.' The thick Rottweiler is not the biggest breed, but it may be the most powerful. These dogs are versatile working dogs and excellent guard dogs. However, this breed has a much calmer demeanor than the Doberman Pinscher. Rottweilers can be family dogs, but good training is essential. These protective dogs require regular exercise, but grooming requirements are minimal.
Doberman Pinscher- Like the Rottweiler, the Doberman usually has a black coat with tan markings. Dobermans also are excellent guard dogs. The muscular Doberman is smaller than the Rottweiler, but is faster and more active. Doberman Pinschers are a very aggressive breed, so being experienced at handling dogs is very important when acquiring one. They are not good around small children and other pets. They are an active breed needing regular exercise and have a high capacity for training. Grooming requirements are minimal.
Boxer- The square-faced Boxer is a solid service and working dog. These dogs are loyal companions and protective, making them good guard dogs. With training, they are good around children and other pets. They like companionship and regular exercise. Only minimal grooming is required. Like all of the previous breeds, having a fenced yard would be preferable. An apartment is possible with daily walks or outdoor exercise.
Saint Bernard- The famous rescue dog of the Swiss Alps, the St. Bernard is one of the biggest breeds by weight. These big dogs are intelligent, loyal and protective, making great family dogs. They are good around children and other pets. Putting up with some drool and regular grooming are downsides. These dogs should be regularly exercised, and having a yard is preferable. St. Bernards should not be placed in hot climates.
Siberian Husky- Siberians are the most popular breed of the Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race. They have great endurance and like to work. These dogs are good around children and large dogs, but not around smaller pets. Siberians need to be in a cool climate and can tolerate extremely cold temperatures. These dogs require regular grooming and exercise. They are not apartment dogs.
Great Dane- The gentle giant is one of the world's tallest dogs and the world record for dog height belongs to a Great Dane named Gibson. These dogs are often guard dogs, but also make good family pets. With training, these amiable dogs are good around children and other dogs. They need regular exercise and having a yard is essential. Grooming requirements are minimal.
German Shorthaired Pointer- This intelligent and active breed has a coat of liver (brown), or liver and white. These dogs are tireless, versatile gun and hunting dogs. They are good for an active family and do well around children. With training, they can get along with other dogs. The GSP is a loyal watchdog who needs regular exercise and minimal grooming. This is not an apartment dog.
Greyhound- The distinctively shaped Greyhound is the world's fastest dog breed. These dogs can have coats of almost any color. They are versatile hunting dogs that make good family pets. With training, they do well around children and other dogs. Smaller pets are a bad idea and a fenced yard is a necessity. Greyhounds need regular exercise, but only minimal grooming.
Mastiff- One of the largest dog breeds in the world is the Mastiff. There are many types of Mastiff such as the English Mastiff, Bullmastiff and Tibetan Mastiff. This loyal and protective breed is often used as a guard dog. Despite their massive appearance these dogs are known to be gentle family companions. They are not recommended around small children and other pets. Regular exercise is a good idea, while only minimal grooming is necessary.
English Setter, Irish Setter, Gordon Setter- These handsome and elegant breeds of dog were originally hunting companions. The English and Irish Setters were bird dogs that developed into pointers. The Gordon Setter can be used as a personal bird dog. Today, these dogs make wonderful family pets. The setters require a lot of exercise and attention. They require regular grooming and having a yard is recommended.
Bearded Collie- This long haired, shaggy dog is almost a medium sized dog. This herding breed is related to the Old English Sheepdog. These active and playful dogs make good family pets. They are good around children and other pets. These dogs require regular exercise and grooming. A yard is recommended.
Old English Sheepdog- Their hair has a tendency to cover their eyes. This shaggy dog is larger than the Bearded Collie. These jolly dogs make wonderful family pets. They are affectionate and good around children. They can also be a bit clumsy and may try to herd things. They require regular exercise and grooming as they will shed during the warmer months.
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All pet dogs should be treated as members of our family and adequate attention must be paid to the canine's health. Sometimes dogs become sick but may not look so. It is very important to recognize and understand dog illnesses symptoms.
Since prevention is a better cure, we must learn something about dog illnesses and symptoms so we can better understand their conditions. This will help us recognize some common dog illnesses. If appropriate and adequate vaccinations are administered to the puppies, most of the common dog illnesses can be easily prevented.
Some elementary observations are useful to recognize certain common dog illnesses. Dogs take a lot of sleep but their sleep is marked by alertness. If a dog is sluggish then there may be various causes contributing to it, right from anemia to old age. If the dog is limping then you should check for prospective painful areas using a firm and yet gentile hand. Check out for any signs indicating lameness from time to time.
The appetite of the dog is bound to be affected by ill health. Look for any signs of loss of appetite. An important sign of dog health problems is excessive thirst. A pronounced weight loss is also an indicator of ill health. Check the eyes for any ulcers, discharges, veins or sores.
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The mouth of a healthy dog is pink. There should not be any discoloring or cavities in the teeth. Look for signs of discharge from ears. It is advisable to clean the ears from time to time. The dog's head should be regularly checked for sore patches, hair loss, or deep wounds.
Investigate the limbs and trunk for the same signs. If the dog is vomiting, there may be various underlying problems. If the body temperature of your dog is not between the range 38 to 39 Celsius it is an indication of some kind of illness. Check the female dogs for any kind of foul smelling vaginal discharge, which needs attention of a vet.
The symptoms of pain and discomfort experienced by a dog can give us many clues about the possible underlying illness. If the dog is suffering any abdominal pain, it may be due to canine hepatitis, enteritis or it can be a simple case of constipation. The abdominal swelling dogs indicate canine bloat and roundworms in puppies. Aggression of the dog may be caused by rabies. Roundworms, tapeworms, and whipworms my cause anemia in dogs. Any behavioral changes in dog can be an indicator of hookworms, tapeworms, whipworms, canine arthritis, heart disease, canine, or parvovirus.
Kidney diseases sometimes cause blood in urine. Eye infections and entropion cause bloodshot eyes in dogs. A ruptured diaphragm, obstructed airway, lungworm, bronchitis, pneumonia, food poisoning, heatstroke, allergies can cause respiratory problems in dogs.
There are various reasons of sudden change in weight of dogs like heart disease to heartworms. Hernia might be caused due to long term constipation in dogs. Allergies, parvovirus, hepatitis, lungworm, TB, pneumonia or distemper may be one of the reasons of coughing in dogs. Cannine parvovirus can also cause dehydration in dogs. Any pancreatic disorder, food poisoning can give rise to diarrhea in dogs. The dog may suffer from hair loss due to mange, red mange demodectic, scabies, cheyletiella mange, or cushings syndrome.
If dog indicates any signs of failing genital bleeding, persistent constipation, projectile vomiting, fainting, hair loss, seizure, stumbling, trauma, trembling, mouth bleeding, rectal bleeding, lethargy, shaking, urinating problems contact a dog care specialist.
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Opening at the opposite end of the animal's digestive tract from the mouth.
Controls the expulsion of faeces.
Prostate Gland:
An organ that surrounds the urethra of a male at the base of the bladder.
Controls the release of urine, a glandular portion, which secretes an alkaline fluid (Makes up part of the semen and enhances the motility and fertility of
Sperm).
Bladder;
A membranous sac that serves as the receptacle of a liquid or contains gas.
Urethra;
The membranous tube that extends from the bladder to the exterior; and that in the male conveys semen as well as urine.
Sperm Duct (Vas Deferens);
The duct that transports the sperm from the epididymis to the penis.
Scrotal Sac;
A dual-chambered protuberance of skin and muscle containing the testicles and divided by a septum.
Testes;
The male gonad or reproductive gland, either of two oval glands, located in the scrotal sac.
Penis;
The male organ of copulation and, excretion of urine and spermatic fluid in mammals.
Glans Penis;
The head of the penis.
Penis Bone( Os Penis);
Not present in humans but aids the dog and other species in penetration during intercourse.
Male Dog Reproductive Tract;
Reproductive tract of a Stallion;
Similarities to the male dog;
Anus (rectum), Prostate Gland, Bladder, Urethra, Sperm Duct (Vas Deferens), Scrotal Sac, Testes, Penis, Glans Penis; - All as in the Male Dog.
Vesicular Gland;
The vesicular gland secretes a significant proportion of the fluid that ultimately becomes semen.
Bulb urethral Gland;
During sexual arousal, each gland produces a clear fluid (Pre- ejaculate) used to clear the urethra before ejaculation of sperm to reduce damage and increase sperm count.
Shaft of Penis;
Contains the urethra (tube in which sperm and urine are expelled through), and also the spongy tissue cavities that fill with blood to create an erection.
Tail Of Epididymis:
Absorbs fluid to make sperm more concentrated.
Gubernaculums;
Secures the testis to the most inferior portion of the scrotum.
Spermatic Cord;
Cord-like structure in male mammals formed by the vas deferens and surrounding tissue that runs from the abdomen down to each testicle.
One of the first obvious differences between the male horse and dog reproductive system is the size, a stallion's erect penis is around 75cm and the Great Dane Dogs is around 20cm. The dog has a bone in his penis and the horse doesn't, the dog doesn't become erect until he's penetrated the bitch but the horse does. The process of mating can take up to an hour or two with dogs but it takes 5 minutes "approx" with horses.
Female dog Reproductive Tract;
Ovaries:
These organs produce ova (eggs) for fertilisation and certain hormones such as oestrus.
The eggs develop in fluid filled sacs called follicles.
Oviduct;
These tubes move the eggs from the ovaries to the uterus in about 2 days.
The oviducts are the place for fertilisation and maturation of the egg.
Uterus;
The dog's uterus is different to the humans due to being in the shape of a "V" and consists of two long horns and a short body this gives the foetus's more room to develop and mature.
The foetuses will mature here until parturition.
Cervix;
Serves as a channel from the uterus to the vagina.
During pregnancy the cervix will close, preventing infection and entry of harmful micro- organisms.
Vagina;
Extends from the cervix to the vulva it is muscular and very capable of dilation.
Vulva;
External part of and the opening of the reproductive tract made up of soft tissue, two vertical lips and can swell up if the bitch is on heat (ready to mate).
Reproductive tract of female horse;
Vulva:
Very much the same in the horse as in the bitch.
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Vagina;
The vagina is long in the mare (nearly as long as the body of the uterus) and is remarkably distensible in length and circumference, a feature that os very beneficial during pregnancy and parturition.
Urethra;
Carries urine from the kidneys to the bladder and outside of the body through the reproductive tract.
Cervix;
A tube connecting the uterus to the vagina, closed during oestrus and pregnancy (Good indicator to when the horse is ready to breed or is in foal).
Uterine Horns;
The horns lie in the abdomen. This is the part of the reproductive tract where the new foal will attach at only a few days old, where the placenta will form to feed and oxygenate it and where the foal will develop until parturition.
The mare and bitches reproductive tract are very similar in appearance whereas the horses is much larger in size. The bitch's reproductive tract is made for carrying multiple foetuses and so the uterus is very stretchy. The mare is carrying a foal which is much larger to her in comparison to a puppy to a dog and so has a strong and stretchy uterus. Both the horse and dog have uterus's with horns this is an advantage due to carrying either large or multiple offspring.
Task 2;
Role of Hormones in the mammalian reproductive tract;
Hormone
Gland
Role
Gondatrophin releasing hormone (GnRH)
hypothalamus and pituitary
Responsible for the release of Follicle Stimulating Hormone (FSH) and Luteinising Hormone (LH) from the anterior pituitary
Follicle Stimulating Hormone (FSH)
pituitary gland
FSH regulates the development, growth, pubertal maturation, and reproductive processes of the body.
Luteinising Hormone (LH)
Pituitary gland
Controls the length and sequence of the female menstrual cycle.
In males, it stimulates the testes to produce androgen
Testosterone (TT)
Testes
Encourages the development of male sexual characteristics
Oestrogen (OR)
Ovaries
Encourages the development of female sexual characteristics
Progesterone (PRO)
mainly by the corpus luteum in the ovary and by the placenta
A Female hormone, Progesterone prepares the lining (endometrium) of the uterus to receive and sustain the fertilized egg and so permits pregnancy.
Oxytocin (OXT)
Brain
Used in childbirth and lactation, contracts the uterus during birth and the mammary glands post- pregnancy to produce milk.
Task 3;
Describe the stages of sexual reproduction in selected animals;
Mare;
Copulation, there are varied methods for horses to breed including natural and artificial insemination. Both methods are effective under different circumstances. For example, a breeder who wishes to breed one horse with another but one is far away may wish to have a mare artificially inseminated by the stallion's sperm that has been collected and sent.
When horses mate, it can take as less as 5 minutes, the male mounts the female, penetrates and ejaculates. The mare must be in heat first in order to conceive, the mare is at her most fertile during the last 24 to 48 hours of her cycle and most breeders will begin mating the horses after the second day in her heat cycle for better chances of pregnancy. Mares signal oestrus and ovulation by urination in the presence of a stallion, raising the tail and revealing the vulva. A stallion, approaching with a high head, will usually nip and nudge the mare, as well as sniff her urine to determine her readiness for mating.
Fertilisation;
Once the mating process has finished, fertilisation will happen, this is the union of the male and female zygotes (sperm and egg) during reproduction to form a zygote (resulting cell of the union of the sperm and egg).
Implantation;
Once fertilized, the egg remains in the oviduct for approximately 5.5 more days, and then descends into the uterus. The initial single cell combination is already dividing by this point. The egg will then attach itself to the uterus wall on about the 16th day for the gestational period.
Gestation;
A horse's gestation usually last about 11 months. After implantation, the embryo can be seen on ultra sound at about 21days and a heartbeat should be visible by about day 23. True implantation - invasion into the endometrial of any sort - does not occur until about day 35 of pregnancy with the formation of the endometrial cups, and true formation of the placenta has not commenced until about day 40-45 and not completed until about 140 days of pregnancy. The foetus gender can be determined by day 70 of the gestation using ultrasound. Halfway through gestation the foetus is the size of between a rabbit and an average sized dog. The most sudden foetal development occurs in the last 3 months of pregnancy when 60% of foetal growth occurs.
Parturition (Foaling);
Domestic mares that are due to give birth are usually separated from other horses for the safety of the mare and the unborn foal and to allow humans to interact and interfere with the birth if any problems occur. Labour is very rapid in comparison with most human births as it usually lasts no more than 30 minutes a horse in labour will usually be vocal, kick at her belly, lay on the floor and pace or paw at the floor. A successful birth can happen anything from 3 weeks before or after the mares due date, anything out of these guidelines and a vet may have to be called to induce the horse or assist with the birth and check the late or premature foal for any abnormalities. Observing the mare on a daily basis is the best indication of impending birth. Within one week of birth, the foal will "drop," settling lower in the mare's belly. Her hind end relaxes during the final two weeks and it will appear lower in proximity to her tail. When the mare's vulva relaxes and elongates, foaling is imminent. The foal will appear front hooves or muzzle first (In most cases) and will be passed through the vagina in the placenta.
Bitch;
Copulation;
The male dog will become very excited when introduced to a receptive bitch, sniffing and licking at her vulva. He will mount her rear quarter and penetrate causing two glands directly behind the penis to swell considerably.
In response, the bitch's vulva will clamp around this swelling; this is referred to as a tie, and is the moment when the dog and bitch become "stuck" together. This period typically lasts from fifteen to thirty minutes, and it is at this point that sperm are being delivered to waiting eggs.
Fertilisation;
Fertilisation in dogs is assisted by copulation due to the swelling of the genitals, assuring the sperm reaches the egg. Fertilisation can then commence by the meeting of the gametes (sperm and egg, male and female sex cells).
Implantation;
Implantation is when the embryo sticks itself to the uterus wall for protection. Implantation in pregnant dogs occurs on around the 19th day, it is different for different breeds of dog.
Gestation;
After implantation to the uterus wall, the embryo will continue to divide from a single celled organism to a foetus. The foetus will continue to grow in the uterus along with others, depending on the breed of dog generally the bigger the dog the bigger the litter size. By day 22 the foetuses will be developing spinal cords and eyes, this is the stage where the puppies are most susceptible to defects. Gestation will usually last around 63 to 65 days in a dog.
Parturition;
The first stage of parturition in a dog can take anything from 8- 18 hours, it is helpful to know how many puppies the dog is expecting as the birth of each puppy and the labour in between can last from half an hour to 4 hours. If the dog is expecting more puppies and has gone longer than 4 hours, a vet should be called as she is probably struggling. About 98% of the time, dogs will give birth successfully, by themselves.
Firstly, dogs copulation period is very varied and can take hours, horses are more predictable as their copulation is around 5 minutes.
Fertilisation in both species is very similar, as in humans, the gametes meet and creates a zygote. Except dogs genitalia will swell to ensure the delivery of the sperm to the egg.
Implantation happens in a similar manner in both animals but at different times. The horse on the 16th day and the dogs on about the 19th day.
In the horse, the gestation period is significantly longer considering most horses only give birth to one foal. The average litter size of a dog is 4-5 and this is surprising as the gestation period is so short.
Parturition in the dog can be naturally, a lot more time consuming in comparison to the horse due to having multiple offspring although dogs tend to be assisted more by humans and so this could be a contributor to the fast delivery of a large litter of puppies.
