Top Ten Most Popular Dog Breeds In America

We all think our breed of dog is the most special, but have you ever wondered which breed of dogs are most popular in the United States? Here’s a list of the top 10.

10. Shih Tzu

With their long fur and beards, it's no wonder why pet owners love these dogs. They're sweet and playful, but also love to be well groomed!

9.Poodle

Regarded as one of the most regale and beautiful dog breeds around, these guys are extremely intelligent and come in many

different sizes and colors!

8. Dachshund

Also known as the "wiener dog" for their long bodes, these pups have wonderful personalities and come in all different colors and varieties.

7. Boxer

Athletic and powerful, Boxers make great pets if you're looking for an active dog who loves people!

6. Bulldog

Don't be fooled by their bad boy reputation, these guys are some of the most lovable pups around! Characterized by their wide stature and wrinkles, these guys look tough on the outside but are total sweethearts!

5. Golden Retriever

Easily one of the most recognizable dogs of all time, these intelligent guys make wonderful service and rescue dogs, as well as a great addition to the family.

4. Beagle

Talk about definition of "puppy dog eyes"! Good for hunting, beagles come with a personality that can make anyone fall in love at first sight!

3. Yorkshire Terrier

Recognized by their long glossy coats and small body size, it's obvious how these guys can bring out the collective "aaaww" in all of us. Don't be fooled by their proper looks, because Yorkies are very energized and know how to have fun too!

2. German Shepherd

German Shepherds are known for there large role as a service dog, but also serve as great life partners! It's easy to see how they're so highly ranked!

1. Labrador Retriever

A great addition to the family and a best friend for both kids and parents, these lovable guys also serve well as watch and service dogs. No wonder they're the most wanted dog around!

By: Michelle Robinson

Athens County Humane Society ImPRessions Account Executive

To You & Your Pup!

By Kaija Nealon, ImPRessions ACHS Account Associate

Whether you've had a dog for a while or are just getting started, it can be hard to know what to get or find the right products to make both you and your pooch's lives a little easier.

*The Athens County Humane Society is in no way affiliated with or receiving compensation for these products.

Click & Play Squid

This toy is based off of a reward system, and very friendly to dog-owners looking for a way to train their dog at home. Based off of Pavlov's Dogs theory, this toy uses a combined clicking noise and treat distribution system to give your dog consistent reinforcement for their cooperation!

Dingo Denta Treats

Instead of giving your dog mints that only cover up their bad breath stench, try these! The denta treats have deep-clean ridges that will instead aim for & eliminate the source of the problem - tartar and plaque. After these have been scrubbed from your pup's mouth, the minty-fresh smell of the treats will be sure to last longer, giving your dog much more pleasant breath!

Magic Coat Wipes

Getting your pet a bath or to a groomer every time they have a messy play-date can definitely be a challenge, and if you have to transport them in

your car, the mess just keeps going! These heavy duty wipes clean deep into your animal's coat, and make for a quick and easy clean-up. Getting off all the tough dirt, dander and odors

just got a lot easier!

Cool-It Cooling Pet Bandana

Sometimes panting just isn't enough to keep your dog comfortable on hot days in the sun. When that happens, soak this bandana in water for 15-30 minutes (refrigeration after optional) and put it around your pet's neck. It's wide design targets your canine's major neck veins where the cooling effect will be spread to the entire body. The collar is filled with non-toxic polymer crystals which will cool the water, but not allow for pesky condensation like ice would. Cooling lasts for hours and is definitely a great way to give your dog the relief it deserves!

BarkBox

If sorting through the endless array of dog products out there is simply too overwhelming, why not let the experts do it for you? A monthly subscription to this cute box starts as low as $17, and comes with plenty of useful gifts to keep your best friend happy. One of the best things about this is that the 4+ items that come each month are different every time - how fun! You're also asked to specify what size your dog is, so no need to worry about your poor little yorkie getting a giant squeak toy! In addition, 10% of all earnings go towards a local shelter or rescue. Merchandise in the box can be anything from teeth-strengthing treats to scented doggie bags, but all of them are carefully selected and sure to satisfy you and your pup!

Cats & Dogs: What's Right For YOU?

By Kaija Nealon, ImPRessions ACHS Account Associate

What kind of animal do you think would best compliment YOUR personality? Most people have always had an idea of what they would be most compatible with. Whether you do or don't know, we've compiled this quiz to help you better ensure that the pet you adopt will be right for the both of you!

1. What would be your ideal afternoon?

A. Getting outside for some fresh air, whether it be just hanging out in your backyard or taking a hike through the park.

B. Curled up inside in bed or on the couch, relaxing the day away.

2. Which noise would be most unbearable to you?

A. Cats hissing

B. Dogs barking

3. How do you feel about being responsible for ensuring your pet's hygiene?

A. I'd be perfectly willing to clean them myself or take them to a groomer.

B. That's not really something that I can see myself having time to do, or enjoying.

4. All pets have excrements, and as their owner, cleaning them up is your responsibility. Which method would you prefer?

A. Pooper scooper

B. Litter box

5. Do you welcome routine in your schedule, or does the day seem incomplete without a new experience or two?

A. Routine

B. New experiences

6. What is your current household population size like, and what are your plans for the future?

A. 4+ members

B. 3 or less members

7. Are you someone who enjoys being constantly surrounded by companions, or someone who treasures their own quiet time?

A. Constantly surrounded by companions

B. Treasures quiet time

8. Which kind of activity do you prefer?

A. Something sports-related, where physical activity and energetic interaction is present.

B. Utilizing your creative/non-traditional side, or having a stimulating discussion.

9. How often do you travel?

A. Quite often. Long trips don't bother me.

B. Not too much. I don't really enjoy the time it takes to get there.

10. Are you messy or neat?

A. Messy

B. Neat

**If you answered:

Mostly A's - you are a dog person

Mostly B's - you are a cat person

According to extensive research done by the University of Texas at Austin, people who prefer dogs are usually loving, loyal, outgoing, structured and personable. In addition to this, they're usually more extroverted and agreeable. Cat owners, on the other hand, were found to be much more independent, adaptable, poised, silly, and beauty-lovers. It was interesting to find that higher-educated people tend to own cats, as well as more open to experiencing new things. Sometimes, though, people are just compatible with both types of pets, and whatever they get, they'll be happy with. Hopefully this quiz has helped you to figure out where you stand, and will lead to the right decision when considering adoption!

Are You Prepared To Adopt?

By Kaija Nealon, ImPRessions ACHS Account Associate

As exciting as it can be to finally be bringing a new companion into your home, it's also important to consider the responsibilities that come with adopting a dog. Here are a few tips to get you on the right track to bringing your new bundle of love into a safe & happy home for the both of you!

1. Know the rules beforehand: after you've found a dog , take some time before you bring it home to think about what kind of rules you're going to reinforce with it. If a dog becomes accustomed to being allowed to do a certain thing (like laying on furniture) then it will be confusing for them and difficult for you to get them to stop. This way, they know the rules from the get-go and never know what they're missing!

2. Talk to your neighbors: it's common courtesy to let the people you live around know that you're planning on adopting a dog. If they aren't dog fanatics, then at least you've given them a heads-up, but if they do get along with dogs, then even better! You can even offer to bring them over for a play-date sometime. And having someone in the neighborhood who the dog is familiar with is always an advantage if you're stuck somewhere and the dog needs to be let out for some exercise or to go to the bathroom!

3. Stock up on toys - dogs have needs too, and one of them is chewing. You can go for the fancy toys at the pet store, or just go with everyday items, like a rag with knots in it or a tennis ball. Bones are never a bad thing either, and will help keep their teeth healthy. Trust us, your beautiful new pumps and leather couch will thank you later!

Hopefully we've covered some things here that aren't as obvious to the new pet-owner. You and your dog's happiness should be intertwined on every level, so look out for your dog and you'll be looking out for yourself!

Gatsby's story

By Kelsey Morrow-Fox

Gatsby, a corgi mix, proudly sports his lobster costume for Halloween. He was rescued from a puppy mill bust in 2009, and now lives a very happy life with his loving owner. Because of his puppy mill experience, he has hip dysplasia and has had to have multiple surgeries on his legs. However, with the care his owners now give him, he is able to experience things that he would never have at a puppy mill, such as adequate food and water, treats, toys and love. He now enjoys playing with his squeaky toys and going for long walks through the park. Gatsby advocates staying away from puppy mills so other dogs don't have to experience what he and his family did, and recommends adopting dogs from shelters so adorable dogs like him can have good homes.

ACHS Impressions Members To Serve at Redbrick

By Sarah Holt

Impressions members on the Athens County Humane Society account will be serving at Redbrick Sports Pub on Wed., April 27, from 6-9 p.m. to raise puppy mill awareness. What’s better than getting delicious food and supporting an awesome cause? So come out to RedBrick to support a great cause!

The money raised will go toward helping an innocent dog or cat find a loving home as opposed to the terrible conditions that animals must endure in puppy mills. Here are a few of the facts that you should know about puppy mills:

- Puppy mills are distinguished by their inhumane conditions and the constant breeding of unhealthy and genetically defective dogs solely for profit.

- Very often the dogs in puppy mills are covered with matted, filthy hair, their teeth are rotting and their eyes have ulcers. We have seen many dogs whose jaws have rotted because of tooth decay.

- The dogs are typically kept in small wire cages for their entire lives. They are almost never allowed out. They may never touch solid ground or grass to run and play.

(www.prisonersofgreed.com)

These are just a few of the horrors that these poor animals face. So please come out and help—it’s as simple as eating a meal. We look forward to seeing you all there!

By Paige Kruse, ImPRessions ACHS account member

The Athens Humane Society ImPRessions account hosted a successful Puppy Mill Awareness event with the help of Redbrick Sports Pub.. On Wed., Jan.19, ACHS members served dinner and drinks with the tips benefiting the Humane Society and its fight for local pets. The Athens community and fellow students were able to stand up against puppy mills while enjoying a lively atmosphere and 45 cent wing night. Although most volunteers didn’t have a lot of serving experience, costumers were patient and ready to contribute for a good cause. Puppy Mill Awareness Week strives to shed light on the miserable conditions of puppy mill breeding.
With thousands of mills across the United States, most puppies are left in small, wired cages and never feel the grass on their paws. Large pet stores will buy dogs from puppy mills at low costs and sell them for a large profit. Puppy mill owners have been known to shoot the dogs rather than provide vet care.
Adoption is a great step toward bettering conditions for dogs. Interested in the fight against Puppy mills? Visit http://www.humanesociety.org/ or http://www.stoppuppymills.org/.

Winter Weather Safety

By Camille Davis, ACHS ImPRessions account member

When the weather gets cold, and the snow begins to fall, it is easy for us to add another layer of clothes. But what about our pets? Winter pet safety is an important subject for all pet owners.

One of the most basic ways we can take care of our pets in this harsh winter weather is by bringing our outdoor pets inside. Winter weather brings many perils, from the biting cold to the mountains of snow. It is not uncommon for pets to get lost in this weather, so when they do go outside make sure they are wearing their tags and keep dogs on leashes. It is easy for them to get turned about and have a hard time picking up the scent of home in the snow.

Pet owners should also take caution of outdoor cats. Parked cars provide cats a safe haven from the snow, so be sure to bang on the hood of your car to warn any sleeping animals that you are about to start the car.

Dogs may seem warm with their furry coats, but even they are subject to the cold of winter. When bringing your dog in from a walk be sure to fully dry off their legs and belly. No one wants to walk around in wet clothes, especially clothes covered in road salt. Also check the area in between the pads of their paws. Ice and salt can gather quickly in that space.

The fashionable dog owner can dress short haired dogs up in adorable, warm sweaters. If you aren’t the fashionista then be sure to not cut your dog’s hair short. For the dogs who love playing in the snow, you may want to give them a little extra food to keep their energy up!

While winter can be a dangerous time for people and animals, it can also be a lot of fun. The snow provides countless photo opportunities of dogs playing in the snow. Is there anything cuter than a furry snowball? What better time to curl up on the couch with your cat then when the snow is falling? With months of winter ahead of us, be sure to keep an eye on your pets and be sure to enjoy the winter!

Feline Leukemia Virus

(Editor's note: Volunteering with the Athens County Humane Society (ACHS), I have seen a lot of strays in need of foster or permanent homes. I recently took in a beautiful, friendly tabby that was abandoned on N. Lancaster St. I took him to the vet and was informed that “Tommy” has feline leukemia. Tommy was at least the sixth cat to be diagnosed with FeLV last month.)

By Kylie Whittaker

A positive feline leukemia virus (FeLV) or feline immunodeficiency virus (feline AIDS or FIV) test is any cat owner’s worst nightmare. Much like human AIDS, FeLV and FIV suppresses the immune system of a cat and can lead to many other health problems such as disease, infection, and cancer.

According to the Cornell Feline Health Center, three percent of all cats in the U.S. are infected with this virus. FeLV and FIV are spread by infected cats through saliva, nasal secretions, urine, feces, milk, and mutual grooming. Transfer of the virus can also occur between cats that share a litter box and saliva transfer from a bite wound. An infected mother cat can transfer the virus to her kittens during pregnancy or while nursing.

There are two stages of FeLV.
-Primary Viremia is the early stage of the virus. Some cats can have an effective immune response removing the virus from their blood stream and halting progression to the secondary viremia stage.
-Secondary Viremia is the later stage that is said to be the point of no return. At this point, infection of bone marrow and other tissue will begin. If FeLV progresses to this point, the cat will most likely have the disease for the remainder of their life.
(www.vet.cornell.edu)

The disease varies but seems to be most common in cats under 2-years-old. Symptoms include inflammation of gums and mouth, reoccurring respiratory problems such as sneezing, nasal congestion, and coughing, digestive or skin disorders, and tumors.

Within the first months of contracting the virus, your cat may not show any signs or symptoms. This is why it is very important to pay attention to any changes in your cat’s behavior. Some signs to watch for include a loss of appetite, slow weight loss, poor coat condition, enlarged lymph nodes, eye conditions, seizures, behavioral changes, diarrhea, or persistent fever. If you notice any of these behaviors or symptoms in your cat, make an appointment with your veterinarian to have the cat tested. Two types of blood tests are commonly used to detect a protein component of the virus.

-ELISA can be performed at your vet’s office. This type of test detects both stages FeLV.
- IFA tests must be sent to a diagnostic lab and test for secondary viremia only.
(www.lbah.com/feline/felv.html)

In the unfortunate event that your cat has positive test results and is diagnosed with FeLV or FIV, there are many things you can do to improve the health and prolong the life of your companion.

-Keep your cat indoors. Since your cat’s immune system will be much weaker, keeping them inside will prevent their exposure to bacteria and infections. It will also prevent them from spreading the virus to other cats in the neighborhood.

- Feed them a balanced and nutritious diet.
- Avoid uncooked foods like raw meat and other foods that have high bacteria and parasitic levels.
- See your vet frequently. It is important to monitor the status of your cat’s condition and make sure the virus is not progressing.
(www.felineleukemia.org)

Under good care, cats with FeLV or FIV can remain in good health for as many as months to multiple years.

It is very important to take every precaution in preventing FeLV and FIV in negative testing cats, especially if they have been in an environment where they could have been exposed to the virus. The best way to protect your cat is to prevent their exposure. You can do this by keeping your cat indoors. If you have an outdoor cat, provide a secured area that prevents the cat from wandering, and talk to your vet about the FeLV prevention vaccination. If you have an infected cat and an infection free cat, keep them separated. Do not allow them to share food and water dishes or a litter box.

If you haven’t already tested your outdoor cat for FeLV, consider contacting your vet. Be on the lookout for behavioral changes and symptoms. As mentioned before, avoiding exposure is the only sure way to prevent the virus from spreading, so take every precaution in keeping your cat safe.
If you have any questions, feel free to email ACHS at info@athenshumane.org.