One of the most important things a basenji owner can do for their basenji is to make sure that he or she has DOG tags attached to their collar. A DOG tag identifies your basenji's name and address in the event that he gets lost and is vital accessory to finding your basenji as quickly as possible.
The greater swiss mountain dog, or swissy, is believed to be a direct descendant of the ancient tibetan mastiff. A versatile dog, the swissy traditionally drove cattle, guarded property, protected human companions and fought in wars.
A DOG tag comes in many different sizes, shapes and colors. They can be made in local Wal Mart and Target stores, as well as pet supply stores around the country for a very minimal cost. They attach to a DOG collar via a double rolled metal ring that usually stays on, but for extra protection, take pliers to crimp the edges together for added security.
Bloodhounds have dewlaps. What are dewlaps? They are strange looking, pendulous folds of skin on the back of the neck. They don't seem to serve any useful purpose to the bloodhound, but are rather interesting to look at.
Today, many basenjis are being implanted with microchips about the size of a grain of rice that is inserted under the skin through an injection. However, this method of basenji identification is not so easy as looking at a tag on a DOG collar, and many facilities, especially out in rural areas, don't have the equipment to scan a microchip. Sticking to traditional DOG tags is still the most common method of providing identification for basenjis and will continue to be for quite some time.
Newfoundlands have webbed feet, just like ducks. They also have extremely water-proof fur. Those features, as well as their great strength, loyalty and willingness to learn, make newfies great candidates to work as water rescue dogs.
Make sure that your DOG tags are kept up to date. If you move or change your phone number, make sure you replace the information on the tag to reflect the change. Sure, DOG collars and tags come off, but if you take the time to adequately size your basenji, purchase the right size collar and make sure you crimp DOG tag attachments, chances are that your DOG tags will stay on for months. Periodically check to make sure that DOG collars fit snugly and have not stretched after use by becoming wet, and tug on the DOG tag occasionally to also make sure it's secure.
According to the Guinness Book of World Records, the longest lived dog was an Australian Cattle Dog named Bluey. The dog lived to be 29. This case was considered unusual since smaller dogs generally live longer. The chihuahua is actually the breed that tends to live the longest.
No one likes to lose their basenji, but by knowing that your basenji is wearing a DOG tag with your basenji's name, address and telephone number on it, chances of recovering your basenji will dramatically increase.
The role of Toto, the male dog in the Wizard of Oz was actually played by a female Cairn Terrier named Terry. Cairn terriers are known for their brightness and cuteness. That, combined with their small size, made the breed perfect for the role.
The smallest breed of dog recognized by the American Kennel Club is the Chihuahua, which stands six to nine inches at the top of the shoulders and generally weighs two to six pounds. Their size makes them excellent travel companions.
