First Dogs Get H1N1

Over the weekend, Chinese media reported that two dogs in Beijing tested positive for the H1N1 virus. According to China's agriculture ministry, the strain was 99 percent similar to that found in humans and was most likely transmitted from the animals' close contact with human Swine Flu sufferers.

China Daily/Reuters

But before you go getting all panicky, keep in mind that "scientists said there is no evidence to suggest pets are already spreading the illness."

To read the entire China Daily story, click here.

Chew Toys For Every Dog

I'm always trying to think of ways to keep my dog occupied, and I've become a little bit of a connoisseur when it comes to chew toys because Riley goes through them so quickly. Below are a few options that you may like (based on my own experiences with Riley), depending on what you're looking for.

For dogs with bad breath:

Dental Mint Rawhide Chew Treats
$9.99
The rawhide cleans plaque off your dog's teeth, and the mint freshens his breath. The best part is, these chews won't stain your carpet.

For dogs with crazy-strong jaws:

Natural Rawhide Compressed Bones
$5-$25, depending on length
If your dog goes through rawhides far too quickly, and you don't want him to get an upset stomach, try this. Because the beefhide is compressed, it takes nearly triple the time for your dog to finish. Plus, it's much less likely to splinter and cause your dog to choke.

For dogs who could use a teeth cleaning:

Busy Buddy Bristle Bone
$14.99
This bone has nylon bristles and rubber nubs to stimulate your dog's gums and clean off plaque. Just note that you have to buy the Gnawhide chews separately.

For dogs who get bored easily:

Active Snacker Tug Toy
$16.75
Ok, so this isn't necessarily a "chew toy" per se. But, this tug-a-jug toy is interactive, so it will keep your dog occupied for hours. You fill it with treats (most kibble works just fine), and your pup has to figure out how to get the pieces out.

Does your dog have any favorites?

AKC Adds 3 New Breeds

The American Kennel Club (AKC) has officially recognized three new breeds: the Bluetick Coonhound, Boykin Spaniel, and Redbone Coohound. This process, according to the AKC, can take up to three years.

A Bluetick Coonhound

According to USA Today, The Bluetick Coonhound "gets its name from a coat pattern, which is dark blue in color and covered in a ticking or mottled pattern. Working ability is very important to owners who prize the sturdy and athletic Bluetick for its skill in trailing and treeing raccoons and other small animals."

The Boykin Spaniel is the official State Dog of South Carolina, and it "is a medium-sized, all-around hunting dog with a cheerful, energetic personality...Originally used to hunt wild turkeys, Boykins now typically work with ducks and other waterfowl. With a rich, chocolate-brown coat and charm to spare, the breed thrives on human companionship and enjoys children and other dogs."

And the Redbone Coonhound? "Known for its flashy red coat, the dog is a versatile worker and possesses the ability to hunt and swim over a variety of terrain while still maintaining its speed and agility."

You can read more about the history of all three here.

What Your Dog Says About You

Thought you all may want to read this article that Cityfile did on what you can learn about a dog owner just by looking at the type of dog he or she owns.

To read the full article, click here. 

What do you guys think? Do you think the dog behaviorist is accurate?

30 Pet Health Innovations

Another favorite website of mine, Trendhunter, recently did a slideshow of 30 recent pet health innovations. It includes everything from pills that combat dog obesity to anti-stress pet vests to doga (yes, that's doggie yoga). It takes just a couple of minutes to click through. I promise it's totally worth it.

To view, click here.