Elderly Dog Care Tips - FAQs - Some Questions Asked by Our Readers

Caring for an elderly dog is much different from that of a puppy.

We have gathered all emails that we have received since over a couple decades in a place, and what we have responded to them. We thought these communications can make a good post and can be of great help to our readers. We have chosen a few. This chapter, Senior Dog Caring Tips deals in some of the most important queries raised by our readers (the then owners of senior dogs) over the years and the respective answers to each of their queries.

We already have a chapter - German Shepherd Dog FAQ that offers a wealth of information. However, this chapter mainly focuses on offering tips on caring for elderly dogs, senior dog food and exercise types for older dogs.

Please note that we have made slight modifications in our responses while publishing here to give those responses a style of a post

1) My GSD is 11 years old. Should I consider him to be too old? Does it mean that my dog has reached an age of approximately 77 human years? Can my elderly dog be considered to be as safe with unknown children as he used to be three-four years back?
(Question by Ketevan lobjanidze, Tbilisi, Georgia.)

Your dog ages faster than you. Major health changes naturally occur in quite a high pace than in humans. Aging in animals vary considerably between species and breeds. In the canine kingdom aging varies from type to type. While for small and toy breeds 8 years is an old age, for a medium and large breeds (having shorter span of life) the age of 6 to 7 years may be considered geriatric stage. Your GSD, at an age of 11 years is senior dog and you have to take special care of him. We oppose the popular belief that 1 year of a dog's life is equal to 7 years of a human's life. Practically, there's no logic to consider such calculation as reliable.

At this age many dogs tend to become more aloof than before, thereby developing behavior issues. They need good amount of rest without disturbance. Behavior may become unpredictable in a senior dog, hence unknown children should not be allowed near him unsupervised.

2) I am Seaneka Nixon from Freeport, Bahamas. I have been a loyal reader of the chapters in your website since four years. I have 2 German Shepherd Dogs, named Rolley and Abey. Rolley is 12 years and Abbey 10+. Both of them are showing changes in their behaviors. Both Rolley and Abey are gradually becoming more and more dependent on me and my husband; Rolley more on me. Rolley has always been a very nice dog and even at his age of 12 years he is very friendly and docile, but he shows occasional uncharacteristic aggression, which most of the times becomes unpredictable. So far we have not noticed any kind of such aggressive behavior in Abey. What signs related to their behaviors and health should we be concerned about in our older dogs?
(Question by Seaneka Nixon , Freeport, Bahamas.)

Both your dogs – Rolley and Abey are older dogs and behavioral changes in them are quite normal and should not be surprising. There may be significant changes in behaviors in a senior dog.

Here are the few behavioral changes, some of which you may notice in your geriatric dog:

Less interested in petting
Less interested in interactions, greeting people, kids or other animals
Less interested in exploration
Less interested in exercises or play
Do not respond much to things going on around him
Becomes overly dependent.
Sometimes wanders about aimlessly.
Sleepless in the night and sleepier during the daytime
Behaves more irritably, accompanied with unpredictable aggression.
Inconsistent behavior – Not necessarily aggression, but also includes a Developing tendency to lick your face more frequently.
Noticeable increase in anxiety
Develop tendency of house soiling
Repetitive activity
Increased vocalization

Here are more medical symptoms:

If you notice any signs like the ones mentioned below or any other signs that are unusual you should get in touch with your vet instantly for checkup.

Solid-appearing lumps or bumps on your dogs’ skin
Constipation or diarrhea or inconsistency in releasing bowel
Shortness of breath
Coughing
Body stiffness
Weakness
Sudden deterioration of health
Unusual discharges
Changes in weight (getting too heavy or too thin)
Changes in appetite (tendency to eat more or less)
Changes in frequency of urination or changes urine color and smell
Changes in water intake (overly decreased or increased water intake tendency)
Stiffness or limping

General health risks that an elderly dog may get exposed to are:

Cancer
Heart disease
Hepatic (liver) disorders
Hyperglycemia (increase in blood sugar level)
Hypoglycemia (decrease in blood sugar level)
Joint or bone issues
Renal (kidney) or urinary tract disorder
Senility
Weakness

3) Hi, My name is Megan, and I live in Ashford, Kent. Wax – my lovely German shepherd is getting older. What kind of a food management should we follow for Wax? Is there any special type of senior dog food types to be followed for Wax? He has always been on homemade diet, and we have He is over 8 years and will be 9 in March 2015. We are a dog lover family. All of us in our family want Wax to stay happy and healthy all through! Waiting in the anticipation of your valued response soon.
(Questioned by Megan, Ashford, Kent. Thank you Megan)

We would not suggest you any abrupt change in Wax’s food components and diet system, as long as he gets all desired nutrients to keep healthy and happy! Since Wax is an elderly dog he should have a maintained diet with controlled amount of carbohydrates, fats and proteins. Obesity in dogs happens when your dog gets an inadequate level exercise and the extra glucose that is converted by the digestion of carbohydrates gets stored as fat. Moreover, in an elderly dog indigestion may occur at any point of time due to the sudden change in food.

A good senior dog food should contain natural enzymes necessary to break down carbohydrates. You can try yogurt, broccoli, parsley, papaya, carrots. If your dog shows no unusual symptoms, you can carry on with these along with the existing food.

Yogurt is a rich source of Probiotics - beneficial bacteria that enhances digestive health, and hence this is a wise addition to your senior dog food.

Egg is rich source of protein and is directly associated with several health benefits. Boiled eggs are easier for your geriatric dog to digest.

Liver is nutrient-dense food, having all essential vitamins and trace minerals and can help your elderly dog to keep healthy. You can feed small amounts liver regularly.

Fish is rich in omega-3 fatty acids that support immunity. Fish such as salmon and trout can be added to your dog’s diet. Raw salmon may lead to salmon poisoning and can be potentially dangerous.

Meat - Lamb, beef are good because they are rich source of iron, zinc and other essential nutrients. Organ meat, such as liver, heart and kidney, added to your senior dog food a few times a week is a great idea. Chicken heart, liver and neck are good for your elderly dog.

4) I will be taking my elderly dog - 11-year-old girl, Cindy, to the vet in a week or so for a yearly health check-up. I know that that my regular vet will not be at her desk as she’s out of the country for a couple of months and a new vet will be there whom I do not know much.

My concern is if I should go for vaccinating my girl. As I told she’s already 11 years old, will the normal vaccination that I gave her all through her life each year (4-in-1 vaccine that covers Distemper, Adenovirus, Parainfluenza, and Parvovirus) be safe for Cindy?
(Name and Place not mentioned)

Especially when it comes to a senior dog Cindy’s vaccination requirement may be different. It is highly suggested that you should talk to your regular vet who has been checking Cindy for so many years. Also keep in mind that older dogs usually have impaired immune system that doesn’t work as good as a young dog. Also, very important to bear in mind is that the vaccines that Cindy may need may be based on where you are currently living and the environmental condition you have.

5) Hi there. My name is Jerry, owner of a small restaurant here in Jacksonville I have a 10-year-old Neapolitan Mastiff Rado. Rado seems to be in pain. He is not active as he used to be. I have talked to my vet, and he says Rado’s developed arthritis? Any suggestion?
(Questioned by Jerry from Jacksonville, Florida. Thank you Jerry)

Great that you have already talked to your vet and got Rado examined. We are sorry to hear about Rado's discomfort. Arthritis in dogs, especially in older ones like Rado, is quite common and can be managed to improve their comfort and mobility:

Medication: Your vet may prescribe anti-inflammatory medications or pain relievers tailored for dogs to manage Rado's arthritis pain.

Weight Management: Maintaining a healthy weight is crucial for arthritic dogs. Ensure Rado stays at an appropriate weight to reduce stress on his joints.

Exercise: Gentle and low-impact exercises like short walks or swimming can help keep Rado mobile. Avoid high-impact activities that might worsen his condition.

Comfortable Environment: Provide a soft and supportive bed for Rado to rest on, especially one that eases pressure on his joints.

Supplements: Consider joint supplements like glucosamine and chondroitin to support Rado's joint health. Discuss with your vet for suitable options.

Physical Therapy: Techniques like massage, hydrotherapy, or physiotherapy can help alleviate pain and improve mobility.

Dietary Changes: Specialized diets rich in Omega-3 fatty acids or formulated for joint health can aid in managing arthritis symptoms.

Regular Vet Check-ups: Schedule regular visits to monitor Rado's condition and adjust his treatment plan as needed.

Remember, each dog's condition is unique, so working closely with your vet to tailor a plan suited for Rado's specific needs is essential. With proper care and management, you can help improve Rado's quality of life despite his arthritis. I would suggest a giving Rado a good diet, avoid over-feeding, avoid high protein diet. Omega-3 fatty acids, especially EPA, has been found to be having high benefit in reducing arthritic inflammation. Omega-3 fatty acids also prevent cardiac problems associated with old age in dogs.

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS) are the most common treatment for arthritis in elderly dogs and should only be administered under a strict supervision of an experienced and registered vet.

Dog Caring Check List for Elderly Dog

Medical Care - Caring becomes more crucial and harder for elderly dog. Caring for elderly dogs includes medical attention, more frequently than normal. An annual health checkup may not be a good idea for; rather for older dogs you should consider a routine health check every quarter. Most common problems in dogs associated with aging are Nuclear (Lenticular) Sclerosis, Digestive Tract Disorder, Hind Leg Weakness, Arthritis and Joint Pain etc. Human pain killers may be potentially dangerous for your dog of any age – More so for a senior dog.

Diet Management -Your senior dog may need more attention when it comes to his/her diet. Food for your old dog should be more easily digestible. Your dog will have metabolic and immunological changes as well as progressive changes in body composition. Older dogs also have their intestinal bacteria affected, which may lead to gastrointestinal issues. Your dog may need low protein-low fat food. Yous senior dogs may not be good with usual one or two big meals; Rather he/she may need several smaller meals in a day.

Activity and Exercise - You are your dog's life tie companion. He/She will do anything for you - especially when it comes to play. Do not force or encourage your elderly dog to over play. He can't take stress in the same intensity that he used to take a couple of years ago. Over-exercising older dogs may have a fatal consequence.

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Puppy Training - Your Housetraining Shopping List For Beginners

Puppy Training - Your Housetraining Shopping List For Beginners" is an essential guide for new pet owners embarking on the journey of housetraining their furry companions. This concise yet comprehensive resource serves as a beacon, offering a curated list of must-have items tailored to simplify the process of training a puppy to adapt to a home environment. With clear and practical suggestions, it empowers beginners to navigate the array of products available, ensuring they are equipped with the right tools and supplies to foster effective housetraining. This guide is a valuable asset, providing a solid foundation for a successful and harmonious relationship between puppies and their owners.Before bringing your puppy home, you’ll need to do some shopping. If you have all the essentials in place before your dog arrives, it will be easier to help her learn the rules from day one.

Exercise Pen: Portable exercise pens are great when you have a young pup or a small dog. These metal or plastic pens are made of rectangular panels that are hinged together. The pens are freestanding, sturdy, foldable, and can be carried like a suitcase. You could set one up in your kitchen as the pup’s daytime corral, and then take it outdoors to contain your pup while you garden or just sit and enjoy the day.

Puddle Pads: If you prefer not to stockpile newspaper, a commercial alternative is puddle pads. These thick paper pads can be purchased under several trade names at pet supply stores. The pads have waterproof backing, so puppy urine doesn’t seep through onto the floor. Their disadvantages are that they will cost you more than newspapers and that they contain plastics that are not biodegradable.

Poop Removal Tool: There are several types of poop removal tools available. Some are designed with a separate pan and rake, and others have the handles hinged like scissors. Some scoops need two hands for operation, while others are designed for one-handed use. Try out the different brands at your pet supply store. Put a handful of pebbles or dog kibble on the floor and then pick them up with each type of scoop to determine which works best for you.

Plastic Bags: When you take your dog outside your yard, you must pick up after her. Dog waste is unsightly, smelly, and can harbor disease. In many cities and towns, the law mandates dog owners clean up pet waste deposited on public ground. Picking up after your dog using a plastic bag scoop is simple. Just put your hand inside the bag, like a mitten, and then grab the droppings. Turn the bag inside out, tie the top, and that’s that.

Newspaper: The younger your puppy and larger her breed, the more newspapers you’ll need. Newspaper is absorbent, abundant, cheap, and convenient.

Crate: To housetrain a puppy, you will need some way to confine her when you’re unable to supervise. A dog crate is a secure way to confine your dog for short periods during the day and to use as a comfortable bed at night. Crates come in wire mesh and in plastic. The wire ones are foldable to store flat in a smaller space. The plastic ones are more cozy, draft-free, and quiet, and are approved for airline travel.

Enzymatic Cleaner: All dogs make housetraining mistakes. Accept this and be ready for it by buying an enzymatic cleaner made especially for pet accidents. Dogs like to eliminate where they have done it before, and lingering smells lead them to those spots. Ordinary household cleaners may remove all the odors you can smell, but only an enzymatic cleaner will remove everything your dog can smell.

Baby Gates: Since you shouldn’t crate a dog for more than an hour or two at a time during the day, baby gates are a good way to limit your dog’s freedom in the house. Be sure the baby gates you use are safe. The oldfashioned wooden, expanding lattice type has seriously injured a number of children by collapsing and trapping a leg, arm, or neck. That type of gate can hurt a puppy, too, so use the modern grid type gates instead. You’ll need more than one baby gate if you have several doorways to close off.

For puppy training, preparation is key. Get yourself properly armed with the right set of tools, patience, and a lot of love... you're set to embark on a rewarding journey with your new furry friend. Enjoy every step of this incredible adventure!

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Trait Prediction by Punnett Squares in Dog Breeding

Mathematics plays a crucial role in dog breeding when it comes to understanding and predicting certain genetic traits and probabilities. Here are a few mathematical concepts that can be applied to dog breeding:



Punnett Squares: Punnett squares are used to predict the probability of certain traits being passed on to offspring. They can be helpful in determining the likelihood of inheriting specific characteristics, such as coat color or type, based on the genotype of the parent dogs.


Inbreeding Coefficients: Coefficients of Inbreeding (COI) measure the level of inbreeding within a pedigree. They can be calculated using mathematical formulas that consider the number of common ancestors in a given number of generations. Inbreeding coefficients are used to assess the risk of genetic disorders and to make informed breeding decisions that minimize the occurrence of inherited diseases. 

Related Reads About Coefficient of Inbreeding (COI)

Aringsburg German Shepherd Blog: An Insight Into COI

Welcome Dog Lovers Blog: High vs Low COI in Dog Breeding

Genetic Diversity: Calculating measures of genetic diversity, such as effective population size and expected heterozygosity, can help breeders assess the overall genetic health and diversity within a population. These measures are important for avoiding the negative consequences of inbreeding depression and maintaining a sustainable breeding program.


Probability of Inheritance: Probability calculations can be used to estimate the likelihood of specific traits being inherited by offspring. By understanding the mode of inheritance (dominant, recessive, etc.) for a particular trait, breeders can make predictions about the probability of certain traits appearing in the next generation.



It's important to note that while mathematics can provide some guidance in dog breeding, it should always be used in conjunction with ethical considerations and a comprehensive understanding of breed-specific traits and health concerns. Responsible breeding practices prioritize the well-being and genetic health of the dogs involved.



What is Punnett Squares and how it works?

A Punnett square is a simple visual tool used to predict the possible genetic outcomes of a cross between two individuals. It helps determine the probability of certain traits being passed on to the offspring. Here's how it works:

Determine the Parent Genotypes: Start by identifying the genotype of each parent for the trait you want to examine. For example, if you're looking at coat color and one parent has a genotype of "BB" (homozygous dominant for black) and the other parent has a genotype of "bb" (homozygous recessive for brown), you would use these genotypes for the Punnett square.

Create the Square: Draw a square divided into four boxes. Label the top and left sides of the square with the alleles from one parent (in this case, "B" for black and "b" for brown).

Fill in the Square: Combine the alleles from each parent by placing one allele from the top row and one allele from the left column into each box. For example, in the top-left box, you would place "B" from the top and "B" from the left, resulting in "BB." Repeat this process for the other three boxes.

Determine Offspring Genotypes: The combinations of alleles in each box represent the possible genotypes of the offspring. In this example, the Punnett square would show that all the offspring have a genotype of "Bb," meaning they would all have the dominant black coat color.

Analyze Phenotypes: Once you have determined the genotypes, you can also infer the phenotypes (observable traits) associated with each genotype. In this case, "BB" represents black coat color, and "Bb" represents black coat color as well since the dominant allele masks the recessive brown allele.

The Punnett square provides a visual representation of the possible genetic outcomes and allows breeders to estimate the probability of certain traits appearing in the offspring. It is important to remember that Punnett squares assume simple Mendelian inheritance and may not account for more complex genetic interactions or other factors that can influence trait expression.

Video Credit Disclaimer: Bright Biology, USA

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What is the key to influencing a judge's decision and achieving success in a dog show? Effective Tips For Show Dog Handlers

Effective Tips For Show Dog Handling

Obtaining an advantage in dog competitions is a highly coveted and confidential pursuit. What is the key to influencing a judge's decision and achieving success in a dog show?
Winning a dog show is not solely dependent on the Saturday and Sunday events. It requires a consistent effort throughout the week, which encompasses preparation and training. The outcome in the show ring on the weekend is the culmination of the extensive hours invested in practicing and conditioning.

Professional handlers need to devote a significant amount of time each week to the careful grooming and physical conditioning of the dogs they handle. This involves following a rigorous routine of of training and practicing, tailored specifically to the needs of each individual dog. In contrast, given the constraints of limited time and resources, owner-handlers must make astute decisions to optimize their efforts in dog show preparation.



Establishing a weekly schedule and adhering to it is a crucial step towards achieving success. Discipline, Dedication and Commitment are everything here!

Dedicating time on non-show days to coat and muscle conditioning tailored to your breed and dog's specific needs is critical. Participating in training classes is advantageous for both the dog and owner, as they provide a social atmosphere and a chance to enhance ring presentation skills. Confidence in your dog and yourself is vital, and your body language can effectively communicate with fellow competitors and judges. Professionalism demands that one looks and acts the part.

A dog handler who himself is the owner of the dog, possesses a unique advantage in his intrinsic understanding of his dog. On the other hand, a professional handler, unlike an owner-handler is required to swiftly evaluate a dog's physical and temperamental traits and make necessary adjustments. That's a real big challenge. He typically doesn't have the luxury of time to develop a personal bond with the dog and an indepth understanding of the dog.

Observing a judge's pattern and correctly evaluating his preferances before entering the ring is bonus. Paying attention to when and where the judge gives the most attention and where they place their hands during the exam may indicate their priorities. A matured and well experienced handler always tries to understand a judge's subtle tendencies during breed judging. That's the secret of his success story!

To gain an advantage, it is crucial to maintain a consistent visibility in the ring.

Visibility requires the strategic allocation of both time and space. One must remain attentive and prepare to showcase the dog's finest attributes during the most suitable moments throughout the class judging. Judges may become bored and impatient if exhibitors are unprepared during their allotted time. Given that each entry has a limited time, typically around three minutes, exhibitors cannot afford to make presentation mistakes. Any small mistake in presenting the dog or grabbing judge's interest may turn the game completely against you. Demonstrate a Confident, Competent, Calm and Composed consistently is crucial for establishing your credibility before the judge. Your conduct within the ring should indicate that you are determined to emerge victorious. These 4 Cs are truely crucial to win the judge's attention.


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Related Reads:

Must read

Dog Handling in a Dog Show is a Big Art: 

Why Many Great Dogs Fail to Win?

Dog Handling in Shows - 

Types of Turns in Front of the Judge

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Have a thorough understanding of your dog's preferenes to understand how to use the bait.

To effectively use bait during dog shows, it is essential to have a comprehensive understanding of your dog's behavior. This knowledge enables you to determine how best to utilize the bait in a way that motivates your dog and enhances its performance in the show ring. In the world of dog shows, using bait can be an effective tool to motivate and enhance your dog's performance. However, it is crucial to recognize that not all dogs respond well to bait, especially those that are inconsistent in taking it. In such cases, it is best to refrain from using bait as it can appear desperate and diminish your credibility in the eyes of the judge.

Moreover, understanding how and when to use bait is crucial. For instance, attempting to shove a piece of liver into a dog's mouth while the judge is examining expression is a recipe for big disaster. Instead, a more effective approach would be to train your dog to stand calmly and attentively in a free stack, while strategically using bait to enhance its side silhouette.

Ultimately, mastering the use of bait requires careful observation and analysis of your dog's behavior and preferences, as well as an understanding of the judge's expectations and preferences. With these insights, you can use bait effectively to enhance your dog's performance and increase your chances of success in the show ring.



Why sometimes an owner-handler is better than a pro handler?

An owner-handler is often a better handler for his or her dog to be exhibited because he/she has an intrinsic knowledge and bond with their dog. They understand their dog's temperament, strengths, and weaknesses, which enables them to present their dog in the best possible way. Also, the owner-handler has a greater investment in their dog's success, both financially and emotionally, which can translate to a higher level of dedication and commitment. This deep connection between the owner-handler and his/her dog can also be beneficial in conveying confidence in the ring, which can impress the judge and potentially sway their decision. However, this is not to say that a professional handler cannot also achieve success, as they have a wealth of experience and knowledge that they bring to the ring.

Related Reads:

Must read

Dog Handling in a Dog Show is a Big Art: 

Why Many Great Dogs Fail to Win?

Dog Handling in Shows - 

Types of Turns in Front of the Judge

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Dog Handling in a Dog Show is a Big Art: Why Many Great Dogs Fail to Win?

There are various reasons why many exceptional dogs fail to win in dog shows.

Foremost among these reasons is the lack of proper training in show mannerisms. Additionally, a significant factor is the handler's inability to establish a connection with the dog, leading to inadequate coordination during the performance. This may be attributed to the handler's limited understanding of the particular dog's behavior and personality.

Winning in a dog show requires more than just having a great dog. The handler's ability to present the dog effectively and show off its strengths is just as important. Handlers must have a deep understanding of their dog's strengths and weaknesses, as well as how to showcase them in the ring. Additionally, a strong bond between the handler and the dog is essential for a successful performance, as it leads to better coordination and communication between them.

Training for dog shows typically involves teaching the dog proper show manners and preparing them for the various tasks and behaviors required in the ring. However, even with proper training, dogs may still struggle if their handler is unable to effectively present them. It's important for handlers to work closely with their dogs and develop a deep understanding of their personalities, preferences, and tendencies. This can help them tailor their approach to the dog and create a stronger connection, leading to a more successful performance in the ring.


If you are a dog handler preparing for a big dog show where the competition is tough due to the presence of many exceptional specimens and a very learned judge, here are some tips to help you perform at your best:

Thoroughly Prepare Your Dog: Ensure that your dog is adequately trained and prepared for the specific tasks and behaviors required in the competition. Spend ample time practicing and polishing their show manners to perfection.

Know Your Dog's Strengths and Weaknesses: Understand your dog's individual strengths and weaknesses, and focus on showcasing their unique qualities to impress the judge. Highlighting the dog's strengths can help set them apart from other competitors.

Focus on Presentation: Ensure that you present your dog in the best possible manner. This includes maintaining proper posture and grooming, as well as conveying a confident and composed attitude.

Develop a Strong Bond with Your Dog: Establish a strong connection with your dog to help facilitate better coordination during the performance. This can be achieved by spending quality time together and understanding your dog's personality and tendencies.

Stay Calm and Focused: Despite the pressure and competition, it's important to remain calm and focused during the performance. This can help you maintain composure and make rational decisions that can help set you apart from other competitors.

Respect the Judge: Show respect and professionalism towards the judge throughout the competition. Avoid confrontations or disagreements and focus on showcasing your dog's strengths to the best of your ability.

Handling a dog in a dog show is indeed a big art, and there are several reasons why:

Communication: Dog handlers need to communicate effectively with their dogs to ensure that they understand what is required of them in the show ring. This requires a deep understanding of the dog's behavior and temperament.

Presentation: Handlers need to present the dog in the best possible manner to showcase their strengths and unique qualities. This involves proper grooming, posture, and showmanship.

Attention to Detail: Handlers must pay attention to every detail, from the way the dog is standing to the way they move around the ring. This requires a keen eye for detail and a strong understanding of the standards required for the breed.

Coordination: Handlers need to coordinate their movements with their dog's movements to create a seamless performance. This requires an excellent sense of timing and a strong connection with the dog.

Confidence: Handlers need to exude confidence and composure during the performance to create a positive impression on the judges. This requires a lot of practice and preparation.

Professionalism: Handlers must conduct themselves in a professional and respectful manner, both towards the judges and other competitors. This includes following rules and regulations and showing good sportsmanship.



In conclusion, handling a dog in a dog show is a big art that requires a lot of skill, patience, and dedication. A successful performance requires the handler to communicate effectively with their dog, pay attention to every detail, showcase the dog's unique qualities, and exude confidence and professionalism.

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How to Calculate Coefficient of Inbreeding (COI) - Chapter for Dog Breeders

Please Note: Please seek permission to reproduce/use this article. Please reproduce this article with the link of this post after getting permission.

The coefficient of inbreeding (COI) for breeding dogs can be calculated by examining the pedigree of the individual dog and identifying all common ancestors. The following steps can be used to calculate the COI:

1) Identify the common ancestors: Start by identifying all of the common ancestors in the pedigree of the individual dog. This includes any dogs that appear on both the sire and dam's side of the pedigree.

2) Determine the degree of relationship: For each common ancestor, determine the degree of relationship to the individual dog. The degree of relationship is expressed as a fraction and represents the proportion of genes that the individual dog inherited from that ancestor.

3) Calculate the probability of inheritance: For each generation between the individual dog and the common ancestor, calculate the probability of inheriting the same allele from that ancestor.

4) Multiply the probabilities: Multiply the probabilities of inheritance for each generation to obtain the COI for the individual dog.

Let us understand the above 4 points with an example. 

Let's say you want to calculate the COI for a dog that has a common ancestor 4 generations back on both the sire and dam's sides of the pedigree.

1) Identify the common ancestor: In this case, the common ancestor is the same dog on both sides of the pedigree, so it should only be counted once.

2) Determine the degree of relationship: The common ancestor is three generations back, so the degree of relationship is 1/16 or 6.25% for each parent.

Here's how I have arrived to 6.25% Relationship Degree

When a common ancestor is 3 generations back, the degree of relationship is calculated as 2^n (2 to the power n, where 2 is base and n is exponent), where n is the number of generations back to the common ancestor. In this case, the common ancestor is 3 generations back, so the degree of relationship is 2^4 (means 2x2x2x2), which is equal to 16. This means that the individual dog shares 1/8 or 12.5% of its genes with the common ancestor. So, in general, the degree of relationship is calculated by taking the number of common ancestors and the number of generations back to each ancestor into account. The closer the common ancestor is to the individual dog, the higher the degree of relationship and the higher the COI.

3) Calculate the probability of inheritance: For each generation between the dog and the common ancestor, calculate the probability of inheriting the same allele from that ancestor. For example, if the dog is the great-great-grandchild (4 generation) of the common ancestor, the probability of inheriting the same allele from that ancestor is 1/16 or 6.25% (for which the decimal value is 0.0625).

4) Multiply the probabilities: Multiply the probabilities of inheritance for each generation to obtain the COI. In this example, the COI for the dog would be (0.0625 x 0.0625) = 0.00390625 or 0.390625% (means 0.00390625 x 100%).


Hence the COI for a dog that has a common ancestor 4 generations back on both the sire and dam's sides of the pedigree will be 0.390625%.

Repeat this process for each common ancestor in the dog's pedigree to calculate the overall COI.

Related Links (Must Read the Below Links):

1. A Deeper Insight Into Coefficient Of Inbreeding (COI)


2. Is Low Coefficient of Inbreeding (COI) Always Good in Breeding Dogs?

Understanding the coefficient of inbreeding (COI) is important in dog breeding for several reasons:

Health concerns: Inbreeding can increase the risk of inherited health problems in dogs, and a high COI indicates a higher degree of relatedness and a greater risk of genetic health problems. By understanding the COI, breeders can make informed decisions to reduce the risk of inherited health issues in their breeding programs.

Genetic diversity: A low COI indicates a higher degree of genetic diversity, which is important for maintaining the health and vigor of a breed. Inbreeding can reduce genetic diversity, which can lead to a loss of genetic variability and an increased risk of inherited health problems.

Breeding goals: Understanding the COI is essential for achieving breeding goals. If a breeder aims to improve a certain trait, such as conformation or temperament, they need to carefully select breeding partners with low COIs to avoid the risk of genetic health issues.

Breeding Ethics: Responsible dog breeding is about producing healthy, well-tempered dogs that meet the breed standard. Understanding the COI is an essential part of responsible dog breeding because it allows breeders to make informed decisions that prioritize the health and well-being of the dogs they breed.

In summary, understanding the coefficient of inbreeding is an essential part of responsible dog breeding. By carefully selecting breeding partners to maintain genetic diversity, minimize the risk of inherited health issues, and achieve breeding goals, breeders can produce healthy, high-quality dogs that meet the breed standard.

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