Chrystabelle's Ruff Ruff Life Trivia Quiz

Answer: Small Dog Syndrome

While Small Dog Syndrome is not limited to the Shih Tzu breed, they are subject to the syndrome in households where human leadership is not clearly established. In instances where a dog develops Small Dog Syndrome, and thinks he is the boss, a number of behavioral issues can occur, including growling, barking, snapping and biting. By establishing a clear hierarchy, with firm, patient and consistent rules, the dog - and the humans - can enjoy a happy home life.

Answer: separation anxiety

Dogs are pack animals, and as such they are not naturally programmed to be alone. Separation anxiety can cause a number of destructive habits, including self-harming activities such as chewing on a limb or tail. When the human establishes himself as the pack leader, and the dog does not have to feel responsible for the human - another pack member - separation anxiety is much less likely to occur.

Another way to lessen the likelihood of this problem is to make sure that the dog gets sufficient exercise. Something as simple as a morning and evening walk can expend physical energy and alleviate mental stress.

Answer: True

Housebreaking a puppy takes patience and attention. Taking a puppy outside at regular intervals is a good start, but being aware of the puppy's actions can prevent 'bathroom' mishaps inside. If the puppy is caught in the middle of an accident, a simple 'No', followed by taking the puppy outside is appropriate. If the accident occurs while the human is away or otherwise occupied, punishment is more detrimental than useful.

A helpful tool in housebreaking for a puppy in a household where the humans must leave for extended periods of time is a crate or kennel.

Answer: puppy teething

While chewing may have a number of causes, between the ages of three and six months, the most likely cause is teething. Providing a puppy with appropriate chew toys, frozen teething rings or chew bones, can help in preventing the puppy from destroying or damaging household items. And, it can also alleviate some of the discomfort for the puppy.

Answer: panting

Dogs sweat through the pads on their feet, but most of their body heat is dissipated through panting. Dogs regulate their temperatures orally, panting if too hot, following exercise, or after experiencing a fear. A dog who suddenly begins panting without known reason, however, could be in medical distress, and should be seen by a veterinarian.

Answer: predatory instinct

Dogs have a natural instinct to chase. Whether it is a car, bicycle, horse or elephant, the instinct is there, prompting them to move, unless training keeps them still. Training which involves controls such as voice, whistle or leash can prevent - or lessen - instances of chasing.

Answer: chocolate

Chocolate and cocoa contain a chemical called theobromine, which can be toxic to dogs. It was first discovered in 1841 in cacao beans by a Russian chemist, and is known to metabolize much slower in dogs than humans. Theobromine poisoning in dogs can occur from as little as two ounces of chocolate.

Besides vomiting, diarrhea and seizures, other symptoms of theobromine poisoning include tremors, abnormal heart rate, unsteady gait and hyperthermia.

Answer: No

Yelling at, and/or hitting a dog is more likely to cause additional problems rather than correct bad behavior. A firmly voiced command to stop should be the first approach, with additional actions such as turning away or holding up a hand so the dog bumps into it, added as needed.

When the dog stops jumping, a reward such as verbal praise, a quick petting or a dog treat can go a long way towards curbing the bad behavior and reinforcing the dog's position in the 'pack'.

Answer: gulping down food

If a dog suddenly develops a flatulence problem, the first step in addressing the issue is to see a veterinarian. If the dog receives a clean bill of health, then changing the dog's eating habits may be in order. Slowing down the dog's eating by feeding smaller, more frequent meals may help. So might placing an object, such as a ball, in the dog's food bowl to slow down the gulping. Changing to a natural dog food, and avoiding ingredients such as soy, dairy, peas and beans, might help, although the change should be gradual. Supplements approved for dogs, such as canine probiotics, can be a healthy addition to the dog's diet.

A very simple way to possibly alleviate the problem is to take the dog for a walk within 30 minutes after eating.

The exercise will aid the dog's digestion, and the human's as well, and allow at least some of the flatulence to occur outside the home.

Answer: astraphobia

Many dogs develop astraphobia, which is specifically the fear of thunder and lightning. Other such phobias include the fear of any number of loud noises, including gunshots, sirens and fireworks. While the exact reason for the development of such fears may not be known, there are ways to cope with the dog's behavior, and ease, if not eliminate, her fear.

The first step is to remain calm, and not to over-react to the loud noise or the dog's anxiety. Coddling the dog does not help, and can actually reinforce such fears.

A safe place, such as crate or dog bed can help, as can playing music or white noise. Distracting the dog by interacting with her, playing fetch or rope-tugs, may work as well. And, rewarding the dog when she does not 'act up' during noisy events is a positive reinforcement.