The Dogs Bone

A large number of people around the world benefit from ownership of a companion animal, possibly even more than they realize. Dogs have been kept as pets by humans for more than 140 centuries, and almost 40 percent of Australians and Americans are dog owners. It is obvious that the bond between owner and dog is an important one, or dog ownership wouldn't be so prevalent or have lasted so long. If you are a dog owner, you know that your relationship with your pet is beneficial to you both. But did you know that science thinks so, too? Numerous studies have shown the benefits of pet ownership on maintaining a healthy lifestyle, from aiding in weight loss to providing social support and encouraging physical activity. Some of the interesting benefits of the dog-owner bond are examined below.

Probiotics are dietary supplements that contain harmless bacteria or yeast which can be useful in restoring the natural balance of bacteria in your dog’s intestine.  In order to be considered a probiotic, the supplement must actually deliver some measurable health benefit to your dog. Pro = in favor of, bios = life, so technically, probiotics are for the betterment of your life.

The Border Terrier is the smallest of all the working terriers.  He has a compact, sturdy body, medium-boned, and well put together.  His otter-like head sets him apart from the other terriers.  His eyes have been described as "full of fire and intelligence."  He has long legs that enable him to keep up with dogs of much larger size.  Perhaps the most personable of the terriers, this plain little brown dog is full of charm and life, which makes him a wonderful family dog.

The Yorkshire Terrier competes with the Chihuahua for the title of the world's smallest dog.  He has a very small compact body and a long silky coat.  Though developed from terrier bloodlines, this intelligent petite breed is less active and robust than his larger terrier cousins.

This dog breed is very active along with great stamina and suppleness.  Standing only18-20 inches, he has the strong and solid look of a Shepherd.  The female Australian Kelpie should stand from 17 to 19 inches in  height. Most dog owners prefer a larger and longer version of this breed.

The Australian Terrier is a working terrier with a compact, and small but sturdy body.  His body is considerably longer than it is tall.  The ears are pricked with no tendency to flare off the skull and the tail is docked.  The Australian Terrier is a loyal and devoted dog that is hardy, smart, courageous, always busy, with keen senses.  He is extremely affectionate with his owners and is usually reserved with strangers.  This breed is spirited, easy-going but purposeful, and makes a great watchdog.

The Bedlington Terrier is a good looking, hardy small dog that looks quite similar to a short lamb.  He is a good family dog, well behaves, gets along very well with children, and has the qualities of a first-rate watchdog, which makes him a formidable fighter if provoked.

The Irish Terrier has a strong, leggy body, and a short, dense, wiry coat that sheds a little and resembles a small Airedale.  He is alert, courageous, curious, spirited, active, a bit sensitive, a great ratter, and not as snappy as most terriers.

The Maltese (also known as Maltese Terrier) has a compact and petite body with a long silky coat.  He is a gentle, refined, and sweet-natured breed that is good-tempered and makes a great family pet.  Although he is normally quiet and sensitive, he gets along exceptionally well with children and generally remains playful throughout his long life.  He is usually healthy and adaptable about exercise.  This breed may be initially reserved with strangers.