Lake Eustis PAW PRINTS Kennel Club
Volume 1 Issue 5
January 2014
HAPPY NEW YEAR
In This Issue
Ms. Jesse, CDX, BH, TC, CGC, BN, RA URA, UCDX, THD
LAKE EUSTIS KENNEL CLUB OFFICERS and
BOARD
President: Jackie Baudo
Vice President: Carolyn Hoppe
Treasurer: Cathy Perlick
Secretary: Lynn Starr
Corresponding Secretary: Marie Zaman
Board:
Ellen Beris, Sharie Davis, Sally Hensen, Susan Prickett
Blue Eyed Reindeer pg.2
Explain Chihuahua’s
Pg.3
Confusis says
pg. 4
Trendiest dog Breeds
pg. 5
10 most expensive
breed’s
pg.7
DEADLINE FOR
NEWSLETTER
10th OF EACH MONTH
LEKC Meets the 4th Wednesday of each month, Lady Lake Library W. Guava St.
Board meets 6p.m. General Meeting 7:15p.m.
Website: www.lekcdogclub.org
UPCOMING EVENTS
Jan 18-19 MADTC Marion Tech. Inst. Ocala, closes Jan.1
Contact:noralle2@embarqmail.com
LEKC 23-24 Greater Ocala Show Grounds. Closes Jan 8. Contact: mbf@infodog.com
Jan 25 -26 Gr. Gainesville DFA, Ocala Show Grounds. Contact: mbf@infodog.com
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HOLIDAY MEETING SCHEDULE
LE
LEKC meets Thursday, Jan. 16. BOARD MEETS at 6p.m. General Meeting at 7:15 p.m.
EKC will
QUESTIONS? CONCERNS? WONDERING WHAT’S GOING ON? WHOS’S IN
CHARGE?
WE’VE GOT ANSWERS:
VISIT THE CLUB website
www.lekcdogclub.org
Blue Eyed reindeer?
By Dr. Becker
New research suggests that Rudolph the reindeer’s red nose wasn’t his only unique facial feature.
According to a study published in the October issue of the Proceedings of the Royal Society B,
Rudolph and his Arctic reindeer buddies have eyes that turn blue each year in time for
Christmas.
Actually, it’s only a part of the eye that changes color – the tapetum lucidum, also known as the
“cat’s eye,” which sits under the unpigmented part of the retina. According to Karl-Arne Stokkan
of the University of Tromso in Norway, “In summer, it is golden with most light reflected back
directly through the retina, whereas in winter it is deep blue with less light reflected out of the
eye.”
The Eyes of Arctic Reindeer Change from a Golden Color in Summer to Blue in Winter
Stokkan studied the reindeer at the University of Tromso. Many of the animals were brought in
by mountain region herders and were maintained in large outdoor facilities during the study.
Stokkan and his colleagues observed their eyes over two weeks before and after the summer
solstice, and another two weeks before and after the winter solstice.
The blue coloring in the reindeers’ eyes during winter provides for increased retinal sensitivity. It
may scatter light, making the eyes work harder, which improves sensitivity. According to the
researchers, increased sensitivity comes at the expense of sharp vision, but may help reindeer
sense predators during dark Arctic winters. And this is an important adaptation, since reindeer
are the favored prey of a wide variety of carnivores, including Golden eagles, wolverines, brown
bears, polar bears, and gray wolves.
Arctic Reindeer
Reindeer, also known as caribou in North America, is a species of deer native to the Arctic and
Subarctic. There are both resident and migratory populations.
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Reindeer come in many different sizes and colors. Fur color varies considerably, both
individually and depending on season and subspecies. Northern populations of reindeer are
whiter in color, while southern populations are darker. Reindeer have two-layered coats of fur.
There’s a thick woolly undercoat topped by a longer coat made up of hollow hairs.
In most populations, both sexes of reindeer grow antlers, but the antlers of males are typically
larger than those of females.
Like the color of their eyes, reindeer hooves also adapt to the season. During summer months
when the ground is soft and moist, the footpads become like sponges to provide extra traction. In
the winter, the pads shrink and tighten, exposing the rim of the hoof, which is used to cut into the
ice and packed snow, also to provide traction. The rims of their hooves also allow reindeer to
crater into the snow to reach one of their favorite foods – a lichen known as reindeer moss.
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The next article is a humorous rebuttal to last month’s article “Hunting down dog origins”
If dogs are descended from wolves, then explain Chihuahuas
By Paul Whitefield Orlando Sentinel
As my colleague Monte Morin reported: “Dogs evolved from a now extinct species of European
wolf that followed bands of nomadic or semi-nomadic humans who were hunting woolly
mammoths and other large prey.”
In other words, dogs come by chasing ducks and squirrels and cars and tennis balls quite
naturally.
And how do the scientists know this? Why, they took a page from “Jurassic Park,” of course
(minus the T. Rex): “In research published Thursday in the journal Science, evolutionary
biologists analyzed the mitochondrial genomes of 18 ancient dogs and wolves. Then they
compared them with an array of modern counterparts, and even a few coyotes.
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“The authors concluded that dog domestication most likely occurred in Ice Age Europe, between
18,800 and 32,100 years ago — much earlier, and much farther north, than previously believed.”
OK, that sounds scientific enough for me. With the possible exception of the O.J. Simpson
jurors, most of us agree that DNA testing and the like can prove stuff. (Apparently, it also can
prove many of us are part Neanderthal, but that’s for another post.)
Also, as anyone who owns or has seen a German shepherd would admit, the dog-wolf link
appears pretty solid.
Except.
Chihuahuas. That’s right, those skinny little yipping wonders that celebrities tote around in their
purses. The ones way down there by your ankles. Nervous types (at that size, who wouldn’t be, I
guess).
So, what happened? I mean, I’m down with evolution — no intelligent design for me, o’ brother
— but really: Do you see a wolf in Chihuahuas’ cloning?
True, Chihuahuas aren’t the only shaky limb on wolf-dogs’ evolutionary tree: Think dachshunds,
for instance, or shar peis. But if you look close enough into those breeds’ eyes, I swear you can
see a hint of White Fang peering back at you.
Not so Chihuahuas. Anyway, I’m not alone in my skepticism, apparently. No less than Charles
Darwin is with me (or would be, if he weren’t dead). As Morin writes: “Darwin himself believed
that the dizzying variety of existing dog breeds argued strongly that dogs must have had more
than one wild ancestor.”
Scientists now say no. The report in Science says no. They dismiss the father of evolution — and
me too — with a wave of their electron microscopes.
But I’m not sold. I may not have science on my side, but I’ve got eyes.
If Chihuahuas are descended from wolves, then I’m a monkey’s uncle.
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Confusis says:
Minutes are worth more than money. Spend them wisely
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Just because you mess up doesn’t mean you have to give up.*
Nothing should stop you from reaching your goals.*
A good laugh and a long sleep are the best cures in doctor’s book. (Irish Proverb)
Time may be a great healer, but it’s a lousy beautician. *(Coffee news)
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11 Trendiest Dog Breeds of 2013
By Kristen Seymour
Some breeds, like Labrador Retrievers, have been popular pets for years, but other breeds (and
popular mixed breeds) have moved steadily up the list over the past decade. For example, 10
years ago you might not have even heard of a Cane Corso, but these days you're likely to cross
paths with at least one at your dog park or vet's office.
To determine which breeds and hybrids are truly the hottest ones, we searched Vetstreet's data
and looked at how many places each breed climbed between 2002 and 2012. Did your favorite
breed make the list?
And on the other side of the coin, check out our gallery of 20 breeds that are losing popularity,
from the Schipperke to the Dalmatian.
TOP 11
1. Cane Corso1. Cane Corso (143rd in popularity in
2002, No. 73 in 2012) -- photo credit - Eva Maria Kramer, Animal Photography/vetstreet.com
The Cane Corso is an Italian Mastiff bred to hunt wild boar. While that's not normally the duty
assigned to this large dog these days, he's still a good guard dog and known to be more athletic
than other Mastiffs.
2. French Bulldog (No. 97 in 2002, No. 37 in 2012)
Affectionate and adaptable, the French Bulldog is one happy-go-lucky pup who can live with
nearly anyone, in just about any home environment, so long as there's air conditioning. Between
that and his small size, he's a popular pick for city folk.
3. Dogue de Bordeaux (No. 160 in 2002, No. 118 in 2012)
The wrinkled Dogue de Bordeaux can weigh up to 160 pounds, which means he's likely to turn
heads, but he's calm and gentle (if a bit stubborn) enough to handle the attention. He's a great
family pet, which is likely why he has jumped 42 places since 2002, but his drooling, snoring,
shedding and sensitivity to temperature mean he's not right for every home.
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Havanese
4. Havanese (No. 84 in 2002, No. 43 in 2012) -- photo credit - Sally Anne Thompson, Animal
Photography/vetstreet.com
The Havanese is a bright and lively little dog who's always ready to play, especially when it's a
game he has created. He's trainable and loves to be pampered, and clearly, his people are happy
to do so since he's No. 4 on this list.
5. Coton de Tulear (No. 130 in 2002, No. 93 in 2012)
The small, white, fluffy Coton de Tulear is very sociable and friendly but also makes a good
watchdog. He's originally from Madagascar and has been portrayed on a postage stamp there,
and considering he has risen 37 spots in the last decade, perhaps we'll be seeing a U.S. stamp
devoted to him, too.
6. Mastiff (No. 61 in 2002, No. 35 in 2012)
He's a classic gentle giant, but the imposing Mastiff can also have a stubborn streak, which can
be troublesome with a dog his size. He's a lover, not a fighter, but he will step in to protect his
family if needed.
7. American Bulldog (No. 63 in 2002, No. 39 in 2012)
His origins as a farm utility dog don't deter the American Bulldog from being a devoted family
pet. This is an alert and powerful breed that can also be a protective guard dog.
Bulldog
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8. Bulldog (No. 38 in 2002, No. 14 in 2012) -- photo credit - Robin Burkett, Animal
Photography/vetstreet.com
The Bulldog is a family favorite who makes friends with everyone he meets. His flat, wrinkled
face and heavy build make him very sensitive to heat, though, so this is one dog who should be
kept indoors.
9. Bernese Mountain Dog (No. 79 in 2002, No. 56 in 2012)
The Bernese Mountain Dog may have started out as a farm dog, but these days, he's mainly kept
as a loving companion. He can weigh up to 120 pounds, but his calm temperament and generally
moderate activity level make him a great family dog. The biggest downside: a heartbreakingly
short lifespan.
10. Great Dane (No. 51 in 2002, No. 28 in 2012)
The Great Dane cuts a truly great figure with a potential weight of 190 pounds and height of 32
inches (or more!) at the shoulder. Like many of the other giant breeds on this list, his looks tend
to be far more intimidating than his sweet disposition.
11. Anatolian Shepherd (No. 151 in 2002, No. 129 in 2012)
The Anatolian Shepherd is a giant breed originally used to guard livestock in Turkey. He's very
protective, wary of strangers and aggressive toward unknown dogs, so while he's certainly big
and beautiful, he's best matched with an experienced and prepared owner.
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Sign in a shop window: Camera salesman wanted Picture yourself working for us.
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10 Most Expensive Dog Breeds
Image: Ksenia Raykova/via ShutterstockBy: Pet360.com
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Curious about the breeds of dog that can cost the most buck? While the value and expenses
associated with a certain breed of dog will vary drastically depending upon your location, the
dog's familial history and the type of reputable breeder you use, there are certain breeds that
continuously come out on top-with one recent purchase costing over a million dollars!
We know the unconditional love a dog gives us is priceless; however; here's a look at the most
expensive dog breeds.
German Shepherd Dog
1. German Shepherd
Cost: $3,000 - $24,000
A breed that's both intelligent and versatile, the German Shepherd was originally developed to
guard and herd flocks of sheep but today makes for an ideal companion and, among other things,
police, guard, war and search-and-rescue dog. Because of their versatility and skill set, a welltrained German Shepherd can be a costly expense. The breed is a devoted family dog but can be
protective and suspicious towards strangers and other dogs.
English Bulldog
2. English Bulldog
Cost: $2,500 - $9,000
Originally used during the 19th century in England for bull baiting, Bulldogs are known for its
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courageousness and ferocious tenacity. With a clownish and amiable personality, Bulldogs have
become popular companion dogs and are now among the most popular breeds in the United
States. Known for its affinity for sleeping and eating, Bulldogs require little more than a daily
walk. Because of their short muzzles, the breed is prone to breathing problems among other
health-related issues, making them a more expensive choice than other breeds.
Image: Lenkadan/via Shutterstock 3. Cavalier King
Charles Spaniel
Cost: $1,000 - $14,000
Named in honor of King Charles II of England, the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel has been
considered a fashionable lap dog and family companion since the 17th century. Easygoing and
friendly, Cavalier King Charles Spaniels thrive in both the city and the country and require
regular grooming.
Saluki
4. Saluki
Cost: $2,500
The royal dog of Egypt, Salukis are among the oldest known breeds of domesticated dog,
according to the American Kennel Club (AKC). Used by Arabs to track and bring down gazelle,
Salukis were brought to England in the 1800s and used as a hunting dog. Their graceful
appearance and endurance in the field make them popular both in the show ring and in coursing
events. Salukis require a strong hand in training and, because of their tendency to chase game,
should be kept on a leash or in a fenced area during daily exercise, according to the AKC.
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Samoyed
5. Samoyed
Cost: $4,000 - $11,000
Bred for pulling sleds and herding, Samoyeds are hardy dogs that have been used on sled teams
since the early 20th century. With a wide mouth that curls up to make it look like its always
smiling, Samoyeds are equally popular with dog fanciers, because of their glossy, refined
appearance. A loving and playful breed that gets along well with its family, Samoyeds can be
overprotective at times and are also known to be a bit stubborn, so it's important to socialize
them early and have a firm hand in training.
Akita PardoY/via Shutterstock
6. Akita
Cost: $1,500 - $4,500
Revered as a symbol of good health, the Akita is known as the Great Japanese Dog. Originally
bred as a guard dog, the Akita was also used for fighting and hunting during the breed's history
and continues to be used as a guard and police dog in Japan. A good and loyal watchdog, Akitas
are loving and gentle to their owners but can be aggressive and territorial toward strangers.
Chow Chow
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7. Chow Chow
Cost: $3,000 - $8,500
An ancient breed that dates back to around 300 B.C., Chow Chows are thought to have
originated in China and served as hunting, birding and guard dogs. A medium-sized dog with a
large head and round muzzle, the Chow Chow is recognizable by their blue-black tongue and
lion-like coat. Loyal to their owners and prized by dog fanciers for their regal appearance, Chow
Chows are truly a unique breed.
Tibetan Mastiff Sergey Lavrentev/via Shutterstock
8. Tibetan Mastiff
Cost: $2,200 - $7,000
Though it is thought to be one of the most influential and ancient dog breeds, the history of the
Tibetan Mastiff remains a mystery. While some function as livestock protectors, most Tibetan
Mastiffs are kept as family guardians and companions. A large, strong breed with a massive
head, thick coat and long, bushy tail, the rareness of the Tibetan Mastiffs can drive up their
prices. In 2011, a Tibetan Mastiff by the name of "Big Splash" was sold for an astounding 1.5
million dollars by a Chinese businessman, making it the most expensive dog ever sold.
Rottweiler
9. Rottweiler
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Cost: $2,000 - $8,000
A descendant of ancient Roman cattle dogs, Rottweilers are used today as police, military and
companion dogs. Powerful with a large build and a 'blocky' head, the Rottweiler makes an
excellent guard dog and loyal family pet. It can be overly aggressive to strangers and other
animals, though, and needs proper socialization and training from a young age.
Lenkaden/via Shutterstock
10. Egyptian Pharaoh Hound
Cost: $2,500 - $6,500
Another one of the oldest domesticated dogs in history, the Pharaoh Hound is thought to have
originated in Egypt as far back as 3000 B.C., according to the AKC. A medium-sized dog with a
coat that can range from tan to chestnut to red golden, Pharaohs have a unique "blush" in which
their nose and ears turn a deep rose color with excitement. Used today for hunting, obedience
and lure coursing, Egyptian Pharaoh Hounds are friendly, playful and intelligent family
members. Their athleticism also requires regular exercise, particularly in a fenced-in area to
prevent them from chasing after small game.
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