History of Valentines Greetings

History of Valentines Greetings

Verses and Valentine greetings were popular as far back as the Middle Ages, when lovers said or sang their valentines. Written valentines began to appear after 1400. The oldest "valentine" in existence was made in the 1400's and is in the British Museum. Paper valentines were exchanged in Europe where they were given in place of valentine gifts. Paper valentines were especially popular in England. Early valentines were made by hand and were made with colored paper, watercolors, and colored inks

There were many different types of handmade valentines, including :

Acrostic valentines - Had verses in which the first lines spelled out the loved one's name.

Cutout valentines - Made by folding the paper several times and then cutting out a lacelike design with small, sharp, pointed scissors.

Pinprick valentines - Made by pricking tiny holes in a paper with a pin or needle. creating the look of lace.

Theorem or Poonah valentines - Designs that were painted through a stencil cut in oil paper, a style that came from the Orient.

Rebus valentines - Verses in which tiny pictures take the place of some of the words. ( an eye would take the place of the word I )

Puzzle Purse valentines - A folded puzzle to read and refold. Among their many folds were verses that had to be read in a certain order.

Fraktur valentines - Had ornamental lettering in the style of illuminated manuscripts of the Middle Ages.

In the early 1800's, valentines began to be assembled in factories. Early manufactured valentines were black and white pictures that were painted by workers in a factory. Fancy valentines were made with real lace and ribbons, with paper lace introduced in the mid 1800's. By the end of the 1800's valentines were being made entirely by machine.

In the early 1900's a card company named Norcross began to manufacture valentines. Each year Hallmark displays its collection of rare and antique valentines at card shops around the country. Museums and Libraries also offer antique valentine exhibitions around St. Valentine's Day.

Thanks for Reading

Wingcent Ning
wingcent@singnet.com.sg
WingcentDotDreams.com
Singapore

History of Cupid and Valentine's Day

History of Cupid and Valentine's Day

Many wonder where did Cupid come from and why is he associated with Valentine's Day.

Cupid has long played a role in the celebrations of love and lovers. He is known as a mischievous, winged child, whose arrows who would pierce the hearts of his victims causing them to fall deeply in love. In ancient Greece he was known as Eros the young son of Aphrodite, the goddess of love and beauty. To the Roman's he was Cupid, and his mother Venus

One legend tells the story of Cupid and the mortal maiden, Psyche. Venus was jealous of the beauty of Psyche, and ordered Cupid to punish the mortal. But instead, Cupid fell deeply in love with her. He took her as his wife, but as a mortal she was forbidden to look at him. Psyche was happy until her sisters convinced her to look at Cupid. Cupid punished her by departing. Their lovely castle and gardens vanished with him and Psyche found herself alone in an open field

As she wandered to find her love, she came upon the temple of Venus. Wishing to destroy her, the goddess of love gave Psyche a series of tasks, each harder and dangerous than the last. For her last task Psyche was given a little box and told to take it to the underworld. She was told to get some of the beauty of Proserpine, the wife of Pluto, and put it in the box.

During her trip she was given tips on avoiding the dangers of the realm of the dead. And also warned not to open the box. Temptation would overcome Psyche and she opened the box. But instead of finding beauty, she found deadly slumber

Cupid found her lifeless on the ground. He gathered the sleep from her body and put it back in the box. Cupid forgave her, as did Venus. The gods, moved by Psyche's love for Cupid made her a goddess.

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Wingcent Ning
wingcent@singnet.com.sg
WingcentDotDreams.com
Singapore

Valentine's Day

Valentine's Day

Valentine's Day, February 14 is the second most celebrated day in the United States, after December 25. Here are some elements that make Valentine's Day fun and romantic.

History of St. Valentine's Day

Every February, across the country, candy, flowers, and gifts are exchanged between loved ones, all in the name of St. Valentine. But who is this mysterious saint and why do we celebrate this holiday ?

The history of Valentine's Day -- and its patron saint -- is shrouded in mystery. But we do know that February has long been a month of romance. St. Valentine's Day, as we know it today, contains vestiges of both Christian and ancient Roman tradition.

So, who was Saint Valentine and how did he become associated with this ancient rite ? Today, the Catholic Church recognizes at least three different saints named Valentine or Valentinus, all of whom were martyred.

One legend contends that Valentine was a priest who served during the third century in Rome. When Emperor Claudius II decided that single men made better soldiers than those with wives and families, he outlawed marriage for young, single men -- his crop of potential soldiers. Valentine, realizing the injustice of the decree, defied Claudius and continued to perform marriages for young lovers in secret. When Valentine's actions were discovered, Claudius ordered that he be put to death.

Other stories suggest that Valentine may have been killed for attempting to help Christians escape harsh Roman prisons where they were often beaten and tortured.

According to one legend, Valentine actually sent the first 'valentine' greeting himself. While in prison, it is believed that Valentine fell in love with a young girl -- who may have been his jailor's daughter -- who visited him during his confinement. Before his death, it is alleged that he wrote her a letter, which he signed 'From your Valentine,' an expression that is still in use today.

Although the truth behind the Valentine legends is murky, the stories certainly emphasize his appeal as a sympathetic, heroic, and, most importantly, romantic figure. It's no surprise that by the Middle Ages, Valentine was one of the most popular saints in England and France.

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Wingcent Ning

wingcent@singnet.com.sg

WingcentDotDreams.com

Singapore

Things you can Do Together when you are Not Together

Things you can Do Together when you are Not Together

Long distance relationships can take it’s toil when they realize there is nothing much they can do together. This article gives you some ideas on what you can do without to spice up your long distance relationship. Hope that the ideas can get you closer to your partner.

#1 - Watch something simultaneously together !

Make a date or time of the night and watch something together could spice up the relationship. This is a good idea if you find yourself running out of things to talk about on the phone. Doing this takes off the pressure of talking since you’ll both be into the show/movie, plus it gives you something to talk about afterward !

#2 - Send your spouse flowers

Do something special once in a while. There are many flower shops that can help send flowers for you. If you don’t want to spend on real flowers, try the virtual ones. Visit Flowers2Mail.com and spice up your relationship.

#3 - Play a game together

There are a few free online games where you can play together. Try Yahoo! Games or Pogo.com.

#4 - Get a webcam

If you don’t have one already, get one. Seeing each other online is another way to get closer to each other. You may visit skype which offers similiar services.

#5 - Send an e-card !

Similar to sending a virtual bouquet, sending a hiliarious e-card can improve your relationship. If you are sick and tired of lame e-cards found online, try SomeEcards.com. But if you are easily offended by vulgarities, this site is not for you.

#6 - HoochyMail !

HoochyMail is a service that allows you to create thrilling, sexy or X-rated story about yourself and your special someone. I am sure it can bring laughter if not shocked to your love one.

#7 - Pictures, Pictures, Pictures

If you do not have webcams yet, the next best thing to do is to email pictures. This will brighten up your love one if he/she had a bad day. Another great idea is to create photo album for each other. A great site is Webshots.com

#8 - Share a journal

You could create an online journal at online journal websites such as Xanga.com and LiveJournal.com These both have privacy controls so you can control who sees your journal. Through online journals, you could get closer to your love ones even if you both are world’s apart.

#9 - Learn new things about each other

Do you think that you have nothing more to learn about your partner ? Try this ... When it’s one of those days where you guys just can’t think of anything to talk about, try asking questions.

#10 - Sing karaoke together!

This is a cool idea I’ve come across. If you are a die hard karaoke singers, this might be some fun, and something you can do online with your love! You will need a webcam and mic for this one. There are many websites out there that offer this type of activity. Search for “Free Online Karaoke.”

#11 - Read a book together

This is great for couples who have limited time together. Find a book you think you both would enjoy and and agree to read a chapter every night. Reading together, can open up lots of discussion, and can help boost a relationship in which both people feel they have run out of things to talk about.

Thanks for Reading

Good Luck !

Wingcent Ning

wingcent@singnet.com.sg

WingcentDotDreams.com

Singapore

P.S. : Oprah, Love Expert Reveals The 100 Secrets For You To Have a Happy, Blissful and Loving Relationship. Click here for your 100 Secrets.

Why its Good to be in a Long Distance Relationship ?

Why its Good to be in a Long Distance Relationship ?


There is a saying “distant makes the heart grew fonder”. Lets say today you run into someone and you like him/her. But he/she is staying half way across the country. One part of you will say, “damn, that’s too far”, another part will be saying, “well, this could just work out”.

How on earth can a long distant relationship be a good thing ? Let me uncover the mystery for you and maybe, you can consider having a long distant relationship.

1. ) Distance will make you appreciate one another more

We tend to take things for granted especially when we are meeting our love ones everyday. When your partner is world apart from you, you will need to use your imagination more than ever. Think of the things you are gonna do when you meet up. Turn on the music and stare up into the sky, now, do you wish your partner is by your side ?

2. ) More time for yourself

In a long distant relationship, you have more motivation, more time to exercise and keep yourself fit. Not only that, you can work more on your career and spend more time with your family. Think about all the things you can accomplish within a day.

3. ) Planning the next meeting is always exciting

It gives you something to look forward to and a chance to escape from your daily life. If traveling starts to get expensive, work together to find a cheaper means of travel and split the cost from time to time. I like to think of it as an adventure and at the end of the adventure is your wonderful treasure.

4. ) A long distant relationship can be a lot stronger than a normal one

Getting through a long distance relationship can be very rewarding for both of you. Think about all the courage it takes to trust somebody thousands of miles away and still be positive.

Give yourselves a round of applause. You now share a strength that is impenetrable.

Thanks for Reading
Good Luck !

Wingcent Ning
wingcent@singnet.com.sg
WingcentDotDreams.com
Singapore

P.S. : Oprah, Love Expert Reveals The 100 Secrets For You To Have a Happy, Blissful and Loving Relationship. Click here for your 100 Secrets.

Top 10 "Must Know" Dating Tips For Guys

Top 10 "Must Know" Dating Tips For Guys

Dating for guys should be a relax and informal situation. However, most guys tend to tense up making it very difficult for themselves when it comes to dating. Here are top 10 tips that every man should know to make it alot more easier for you. Read on ...

Try to look at your best

If it’s the first date, it’s especially important to dress at your best. They say that the first impression will last forever, so why not also be the best impression ? Know what kind of clothes look good on you and try to achieve a cool, confidence appearance with that. The most important thing about dressing is that the shirt must be ironed and not wrinkled. Its stain free and look perfectly good on you.

Once you know the importance of dressing. The next is the scent. According to dating expert, a guy’s smell will either increase the attractiveness of the guy or turn the girl off. Remember to spay the right amount of perfume at the right place like neck, wrist and chest.

Finally, be clean shave, brush your teeth, style your hair or get a good haircut, check your face on the mirror and lastly cut your nails and now, you are ready to go.

Be on time

Patience is a virtue but being late is not an excuse. In fact its a sign for not caring. If the girl is late, try telling her to make it up by buying you a drink, but do it in a teaseful manner.

Find the best place

You and your date should agree on where to go beforehand. As an alpha male, you should have a plan and suggest where to meet. If both of you have different ideas on where to go, try to compromise. Let the ladies decide first and you will decide on the next date. Just remember to find a place where the two of will be comfortable while having fun at the same time.

Mind your manners

All that you know about manners and etiquette will be helpful during dating. Show that you are helpful and be a gentleman by opening the door, pulling out the chair for her. Believe me, all of things will be important with her.

Make sure you can spit good game

No one likes a boring date, so make an effort to make it interesting. Communicate with her, and get to know here. You do not have to impress her. Ask her questions and let her ask you too. Say the right thing at the right time and avoid embarrassing questions like your ex, her ex and politics.

Be spontaneous

The best dating tip i can offer to guys is being spontaneous. Do not have to be conscious of what will happen next or will the she be happy with the date. Relax, be laid back, have fun during the date and everything else will fall in to places.

The payment method

Most of the time, its the men who pay the bill. But there are instances where women likes to shoulder the bill. On the first date, there is no need to bring her to fine restaurant. Go for something you can afford and when the bill comes, just say, “Don’t worry I got it’s no big deal”. The only reason you take your date to the fine restraunt is when she is your girlfriend. Even then, you only take her once a while.

Make the Best of your date

Every date should be memorable and special. How to do it will depend on you and the girl itself. Make her feel special during the date and it will guarantee a follow up date.

The kissing game

The most asked question, shall I kiss my date ? Well, that decision lies in you my friend. However, there are some signs which the women gives out that may be a sign. For example, she’s looking at you with an intense gaze, she licks her lips while looking at you, she laughs as everything you say, or she does the hair toss. All these are signals that means kissing is around the corner.

The phone call

There are some rules that says that you should call her 2 days after the date. There is nothing wrong in calling her the following day but don’t make a big deal out of it. Simply give her a call and start a conversation where you left behind the day before so it’s still fresh in her mind.

Thanks for Reading
Good Luck !

Wingcent Ning
wingcent@singnet.com.sg
WingcentDotDreams.com
Singapore

P.S. : Oprah, Love Expert Reveals The 300 Creative and Inexpensive Date Ideas That People Are Using To Leave Great Impressions, Rekindle Relationships and Have More Fun ! Check it out here ...

Dos and Don'ts for your First Date - For Men

Dos and Don'ts for your First Date - For Men


First, lets chat about the most important "dos" and "don'ts" for your first date.

Tip #1 - Be on time. It's rude to keep your date waiting.

Tip #2 - Make a great impression. Look your best because first impressions last !

Tip #3 - Best recommend your first meeting over dinner, preferably on Friday or Saturday night ... Also avoid catching a movie. Your first date should be over dinner at a quiet, romantic restaurant. It's best to meet early on Saturday evening so you will feel relaxed and have plenty of time to talk and get to know each other.

Tip #4 - Show your best side and keep your conversation light-hearted. Work on building chemistry.

Tip #5 - Be positive. Don't be grumpy or complain about things or people.

Tip #6 - Don't talk about past relationships.

Tip #7 - Don't talk about marriage, children or whether you want your spouse to stay at home to look after the kids.

Tip #8 - Don't ask personal questions such as : Why are you still single ? How much money you make ?

Tip #9 - If you don't feel any chemistry on the first meeting, don’t walk out on your date. Simply end it on a positive note.

Tip #10 - If you’re undecided after the first date, don’t be hasty to make up your mind. Feel free to ask some experts for help, discuss your concerns. You may also refer to the 300 creative and inexpensive dates ideas reveal by a love expert. Check out below.

Tip #11 - If you both decide to meet again, choose to do something different so that you will get to see each other in a new light. A casual afternoon strolls or picnic on the beach. This time, wear comfortable clothing so that you will feel more relaxed.

Tip #12 - For the third date, you should initiate the meeting.

Stay tune for the 2nd part of "Dos and Don'ts for your First Date - For Women".

Thanks for Reading
Good Luck !

Wingcent Ning
wingcent@singnet.com.sg
WingcentDotDreams.com
Singapore

P.S. : Oprah, Love Expert Reveals The 300 Creative and Inexpensive Date Ideas That People Are Using To Leave Great Impressions, Rekindle Relationships and Have More Fun ! Check it out here ...

Dachshund

Dachshund

Breed Group : Hound

Color :

Solid red, sable, or cream; black and tan, chocolate and tan, wild boar and tan, gray and tan, or fawn and tan, brindle

Coat :

The Dachshund comes in three different varieties. The Smooth Haired Dachshund, Wirehaired Dachshund, and the Longhaired Dachshund. He also comes in two different sizes being standard and miniature. The Longhaired Dachshund has a long and straight coat, with hair slightly feathered and longer on the underbelly, ears, chest, and legs. The Smooth Coat has a straight, smooth, short, and glossy coat that should all be of equal length along the body of the dog. The Wirehaired has a coat of broken appearance with wiry, coarse, and harsh hair.

Overview :

The Dachshund was originally developed in German hundreds of years ago. They were originally bred for hunting Badger, hence the name Dachshund. "Dachs" is the German word for Bader. The elongated body and the shortened legs were bred into this dog to dig the prey out and go inside their burrows forcing them to leave their dens. The Miniature variety was bred to hunt hare and stoat. This breed has also been known to hunt foxes and otters along with the badger.

Character :

Dachshunds are a very clownish breed and can be very mischievous at times. A very intuitive dog, the Dachshund is now most commonly seen as a companion rather than a hunter. This breed loves to be around people and should never exhibit signs of aggression or timidity. The Dachshund is an all around friendly dog, is very outgoing, and is sure to steal the hearts of everyone he meets.

Temperament :

The Dachshund is a fun loving dog, tenacious, and lively, but can become jealous and be very irritable. This breed does not do well with smaller children, but can do very well with older and more considerate children. Due to his small size and tiny legs, this breed should not be placed in a home with larger dogs unless they were raised around each other. The Dachshund has the tendency to become jealous, however can do very well with many other toy breeds in the home providing they are not snippy.

Care :

The Long Haired variety requires quite a bit of grooming. Being that this dog is so low to the ground, he is prone to getting burrs, sticks, and twigs stuck in his coat which should be removed daily if any are present. Brushing of the coat should be done on a regular basis to prevent tangling and/or matting. The Smooth Haired variety doesn't require much grooming and would respond well to an occasional wipe down with a damp towel, or a harsh towel to remove any dead or loose hair.

Training :

The Dachshund can be stubborn at times, making training a little bit difficult for the average owner. This breed requires firm and consistent handling, but can be a little sensitive so he should always be corrected in a gentle manner, never harsh or this breed could become submissive and timid. Dachshunds respond best to a variety of training methods.

Activity :

The Dachshund can be lively and vivacous, however he does not need much exercise. A short walk per day would suffice for this short-bodied breed. The Dachshund tends to tire out easily so any exercise provided should be given at different times rather than one long walk. This breed is prone to back problems so high jumping and/or running should never be allowed.

Thanks for Reading

Wingcent Ning

wingcent@singnet.com.sg

WingcentDotDreams.com

Singapore

Chihuahua

Chihuahua

Breed Group : Toy

Color : Any

Coat :
The Chihuahua coat comes in two varieties: The Smooth and Long coat. The Smooth coat has a glossy, soft, and close coat which is full textured over the entire body, but quite scanty on the head and ears. The Long coat has a soft, longer coat that can be slightly curly or flat. This variety does have an under-coat. Either coat type comes in a variety of colors such as fawn, brown, black, and white. The coat may be solid in color, marked with splashes of color, or tri-color. They are an average shedder.

Overview :
The Chihuahua is the smallest of all breeds and has the distinction of being the oldest breed in America. They were named after the Chihuahua region in Mexico. It is believed that this breed descended from ancient breed that was larger in size and highly prized by Aztec royalty. The Chihuahua of today has a very fine bone structure, but are actually quite muscular.

Character :
The Chihuahua is a very individualistic breed. They each have their own unique personality, so only a few generalizations can be made. They are commonly referred to as a "Chi". They are energetic, graceful, and display a human-like expression. Their life span is the longest of any size dog.

Temperament :
The Chihuahua is deeply devoted and fiercely loyal. They typically become extremely attached to one or two people. They are bold, fearless, and highly protective of their masters. They thrive on inordinate amounts of attention. The Chihuahua is by nature gentle, loving, and sweet-tempered. They are wary of strangers and make excellent watchdogs. This breed is not well suited for children or other pets. However, they are sociable with their own kind. Chihuahuas are excellent companions in the right circumstances.

Care :
The Chihuahua requires minimal grooming. The Smooth coat variety requires only occasional brushing. The Long coat variety should be brushed several times a week with a soft bristle brush. Both varieties only need bathing once a month using a mild shampoo. Special care must be given to not get water into their ears as they are prone to ear infections. Dental hygiene is a must to prevent tooth loss. The health issues that affect this breed include slipped stifles, open font or soft spot, eye problems, and heart disease. The Chihuahua does not tolerate cold climates and must be protected when taken outside.

Training :
The Chihuahua can be difficult to train, but with patience, love, and consistency do well. They respond best to positive reinforcement. Chihuahuas can be housetrained by either the crate method or the paper training method. Early, extensive, and intensive socialization is an absolute must for this breed.

Activity :
The Chihuahua is an excellent apartment or condominium dweller. The majority of their exercise needs can be met indoors with toys or play sessions. However, they greatly enjoy going with their owners and benefit from daily walks. Using a harness is recommended instead of a leash is best given their delicate neck and bone structure.

Thanks for Reading

Wingcent Ning
wingcent@singnet.com.sg
WingcentDotDreams.com
Singapore

Bulldog

Bulldog

Breed Group : Non-Sporting

Color :
Brindle, solid white, red, or fawn, or any of these on a white background

Coat :
The coat of the Bulldog is close, straight, short, glossy, and smooth. It is of fine texture and there is no feathering, fringe, or curl. The color of the coat comes in red brindle, solid white, solid red, fawn, or fallow, piebald, and various colors of brindle. This breed is an average shedder.

Overview :
Descended from the Asiatic mastiff, the Bulldog was developed in Great Britain. Their primary function was that of a participant in the blood sport of bull baiting. They were also used against bears, other vicious carnivores, and lions. During the 19th century purebred Bulldogs were very rare due to the enactment of the anti-baiting laws. Today the Bulldog is a family companion and show dog.

Character :
The Bulldog is moderate in size, heavy, and built low to the ground. They are strong, kind, amiable, and courageous. This breed is not vicious or aggressive and is quite dignified. They possess a passive demeanor and have a quirky sense of humor.


Temperament :
This breed is loyal, exceedingly affectionate, and deeply devoted to their family. The Bulldog is dependable, gentle, and does well in a home with children. They will get along with other pets they have been raised with but may be rude and try to bully strange dogs. They thrive on human attention and are dependent upon it for their happiness and well-being. The Bulldog has excellent guarding abilities but will only bark when absolutely necessary. This breed is very possessive of food and should never be fed in the presence of children or pets.

Care :
The Bulldog needs occasional brushing with a firm bristle brush. Bathing or dry shampooing should only be done when necessary. This breed has a tendency to slobber and drool so daily cleaning of the face is a must. They are prone to such health issues as breathing problems, low tolerance to anesthesia, poor eyesight, skin infections, and hip and knee problems. Nearly all Bulldogs must be born by Caesarean section due to their large heads. They are adverse to weather extremes and are highly susceptible to heat stroke. This breed is also well known for their active gastrointestinal system.

Training :
Early socialization and obedience are a must for the Bulldog. They have a tendency to be hardheaded and stubborn. It is important that they be taught to know their owner is dominant. They do not respond to harsh or heavy-handed methods. Training must be done with firmness, fairness, patience, consistency, praise, and reward.

Activity :
The Bulldog must have daily exercise to stay fit. A securely leashed walk will suffice. They also benefit from and enjoy short family play sessions. This breed is well suited for apartment, condominium, and city dwelling. Bulldogs are very inactive indoors and do not need a yard.

Thanks for Reading

Wingcent Ning
wingcent@singnet.com.sg
WingcentDotDreams.com
Singapore

Boxer

Boxer

Breed Group : Working

Color :
Fawn and brindle, both with or without white flashing and black mask

Coat :
The Boxer has a shorthaired coat, which is shiny, smooth, and fits tightly to the body. The coat comes in such colors as fawn, red, and brindle, with "flashings" of white on their underbelly, chest, and all four feet. In some cases the "flashing" will appear on their face. The Boxer is an average shedder that sheds year round.

Overview :
The Boxer originated in Germany in the late 19th century. This breed's name was supposedly derived from the "boxing" motion they made with their front paws. Boxers are stocky and medium in size with strong jaws and a powerful bite. They are widely used in search and rescue, police work, and military work.

Character :
Boxers are lively, strong, and extremely loyal. They have an exceedingly high energy level. They carry themselves with pride, but are never arrogant. They have a stoic stance, and are intelligent, loving, delightful companions.

Temperament :
The Boxer is patient, dignified, and self-assured. They exhibit curiosity, but are wary of strangers. This breed is fearless and courageous if threatened. They are keenly alert and have a heightened sense of hearing, which make them excellent guard dogs. The Boxer adores children and other pets they have been raised with. They have an inordinate need for human companionship and do not like to be alone for extended periods of time. They are not well suited for a two career family. Insufficient attention may lead them into "bad" behavior in an attempt to be noticed.

Care :
The Boxers tight, short coat requires minimal grooming. Occasional brushing with a firm bristle brush is recommended. Bathing should only be done when absolutely necessary to ensure the essential oils are not stripped from their skin. The Boxer is typically clean and will groom themselves. This breed has some major health concerns such as cardiomyopathy, sub-aortic stenosis, and hip dysplasia. They may also be prone to tumors, epilepsy, allergies, and skin problems. A proper diet is absolutely essential due to their sensitive stomach and tendency toward excessive flatulence. The Boxer is an indoor pet as their short coat cannot protect them from cold climates.

Training :
The Boxer is clever and quick to learn. Obedience training is essential. They require a dominant owner capable of controlling them. They do not respond well to harsh treatment. Training must consist of fairness, firmness, and consistency. Boxers do well in competitive obedience and love to learn and perform tricks.

Activity :
The Boxer enjoys regular play and outdoor exercise. They thrive on playing with their family and do best with a medium sized fenced yard. It is important to keep them stimulated and occupied indoors to prevent destruction brought about by boredom. The Boxer will do okay in an apartment if they are sufficiently and regularly exercised.

Thanks for Reading

Wingcent Ning
wingcent@singnet.com.sg
WingcentDotDreams.com
Singapore

Beagle

Beagle

Breed Group : Hounds

Color :
Any true hound color ( tricolor )

Coat :
The Beagle has a hound type coat of medium length making grooming relatively easy for this breed. The hair should lie close to the body of the dog and should be hard, never soft or silky. The Beagle looks like a small English Foxhound. Beagles have a very sleek and shorthaired coat.

Overview :
The Beagle was originally bred for hunting purposes and does remarkably well. Being a scent hound, this breed has the tendency to follow his nose and ignore anything and everything so obedience training at an early age is a must. The Beagle originated as a cross between the Harrier and many other hounds in England. This breed does best when hunting hare, pheasant, or quail.

Character :
The Beagle is full of energy and does great in a family environment. They are very lively, active, and high energy making a wonderful childs companion given the proper socialization. This breed is alert and of even temperament and should never show signs of aggression or timidity. The Beagle can be very mischievous and very bold at times so proper precautions must be taken when training and/or socializing this fun loving breed.

Temperament :
The Beagle is an all around happy dog that makes a wonderful companion for many different families. This breed adapts to many different environments and lifestyles, if not all. The Beagle is very eager to please, and is very intelligent however training must be consistent as this breed tends to lose interest and focus on something that catches his attention. This breed does extremely well with children, and can do exceptionally well with other pets if socialized properly.

Care :
Beagles should require daily brushing to remove any dead or loose hair. A wipe down with a damp towel should suffice for the bathing aspect, however a rubber, wire, or hard bristled brush would work best for the brushing aspect. The ears of this breed should be cleaned on a regular basis, as this breed is prone to painful ears or ear infections. The nails of the Beagle should also be trimmed. This breed is an average shedder, which can be controlled with regular combing.

Training :
The Beagle is very intelligent and very eager to please making him a wonderful student to work with. However, they do tend to lose interest fairly quickly as they are bound to pick up a scent and follow it. This is when obedience training definitely comes in handy. If properly trained, the Beagle should listen however, if not trained properly, ignoring is a big problem. Consistency and firm yet gentle handling is a must if this breed is to excel as they so desperately want to.

Activity :
The Beagle is fairly active and loves long and vigorous walks, as they are the outdoorsy type. Considering they have a very strong hunting instinct, this breed should always be kept on a leash or in a fenced in yard as he is bound to run off if something catches his interest. Two long daily walks are recommended, as this breed seems to have great stamina and be somewhat tireless. The Beagle responds best in a home with a large yard.

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