ma po toufu
1/4 cup dried tree ears
1 cup boiling water
3-inch piece fresh ginger
5 scallions
(1 tablespoon of the chopped ginger)
(1 scallion's worth of the chopped scallions)
1/2 pound ground pork or beef
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 teaspoon sesame oil
1 tablespoon Chinese rice wine or cooking sherry
8 or more cloves garlic (for a yield of 2 tablespoons chopped garlic)
(the remaining chopped ginger)
6 fresh water chestnuts (optional)
2 teaspoons cornstarch
1/4 cup water
6 squares fresh bean curd
(tree ears)
tablespoon corn starch
(meat mixture)
6 tablespoons peanut oil
(garlic and ginger)
1 1/2 teaspoons hot pepper flakes in oil
1 tablespoon hot pepper paste
(water chestnuts and tree ears)
(meat mixture)
(bean curd)
(scallions)
1 teaspoon granulated sugar
3 tablespoons soy sauce
1/2 cup water
1 1/2 teaspoons ground, roasted Szechwan peppercorns
(cornstarch and water)
1 teaspoon sesame oil
1 teaspoon salt, or to taste
PREPARATION
Put the tree ears in a small bowl and pour the boiling water over them. Let them soak for about 15 minutes, until they be- come soft and gelatinous.
Peel the ginger, then chop it into tiny pieces, about the size of a match head.
Clean the scallions, then chop them, both the white part and about one-third of the green, into pieces slightly larger than the ginger, about 1/4 inch in diameter.
Add 1 tablespoon of the chopped ginger and 1 scallion's worth of the chopped scallions to the ground pork, along with the soy sauce, sesame oil, and wine. Mix thoroughly, then set aside for about 30 minutes.
Peel the garlic, then chop it coarsely. Combine it with the rest of the chopped ginger and mince them both together until they reach the consistency of a thick paste. (This may take several minutes, but Mrs. Chiang insists that the finer you chop the garlic and ginger the more interesting the finished dish will be. )
Cut the dark skin off the outside of the water chestnuts, then chop them into pieces about the size of a match head, Combine the cornstarch and water in a small bowl and set aside.
Cut the bean curd into 1/2-inch cubes.
Drain the tree ears, then rinse them and pick them over carefully to remove the tiny impurities, like little pieces of wood, that might still be embedded in them. Then mince into little pieces the size of a match head.
Just before you are ready to begin cooking, add the cornstarch to the meat mixture and blend thoroughly.
COOKINGHeat your wok or pan over a moderately high flame for about 15 seconds, then add the oil. It should be hot enough to cook with when the first small bubbles begin to form and a few small wisps of smoke appear.
When the oil is ready, quickly throw in the garlic and ginger and vigorously stir-fry them over a medium flame for about 30 seconds, using your cooking shovel or spoon to scoop the ingredients from the sides of the pan and then stir them around in the middle, so they won't burn or stick.
Continue to stir-fry while you add the hot pepper flakes in oil, hot pepper paste, water chestnuts, and tree ears. Then stir- fry for another 30 seconds.
Add the meat mixture and keep stirring it as it cooks, taking special care to break up any large chunks of meat that stick together.
After the meat has cooked for about 1 minute and has lost its pinkish color, throw in the bean curd and the chopped scallions and stir-fry everything together for about 45 seconds. Then add the sugar and stir-fry for another 30 seconds.
Pour in the soy sauce and the water and wait for the liquid to boil, then let the contents of the pan cook over a moderate flame for 2 more minutes.
Add the Szechwan peppercorns and stir thoroughly.
At this point, determine how much sauce there is in the pan. If the dish seems watery , you should get ready to add the cornstarch and water mixture that you have already prepared. But if there does not seem to be much liquid, you won't need the cornstarch.
Make sure that you stir up the cornstarch mixture before you pour it into the pan, then stir-fry everything over a medium flame until the sauce becomes clear and slightly thickened.
Add the sesame oil and stir it in thoroughly; then, just before serving, taste the dish for salt. It should taste sharp and clear, with just a hint of sweetness.
Stir the salt in and serve.
Wednesday, October 10, 2007
Scallion Cakes - Cou you bing
Cou you bing
3 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup water
10 to 15 scallions (depending on their size)
1 1/2 teaspoons sesame oil, approximately 1 teaspoon salt 1 1/2 tablespoons lard, at room temperature, or peanut oil (if you fear cholesterol)
(half the scallions)1 teaspoon salt
1 1/2 tablespoons lard
(remaining scallions) 3 tablespoons peanut oil, approximately
PREPARATION
Mix the flour and the water together very well; you should get a very stiff dough. Set it aside for at least 30 minutes.
Trim the scallions, then chop them, both white part and green, into very fine pieces, about the size of a match head.
Since the dough for the scallion cakes has to be rolled out, you will need the same kind of a large flat surface that you use for making any other kind of pastry, a large wooden board or tabletop. Prepare the surface on which you are going to roll out the scallion cakes by sprinkling it with the sesame oil. (This serves the same purpose as flour in keeping the dough from sticking. )
Knead the dough for about a minute until it is easy to work with, then separate it into two balls. Take one ball and roll it out into a rectangle about 8 by 10 inches. (If you are using a rolling pin, make sure to rub it with some sesame oil so that the dough doesn't stick to it. You can also use your hands instead of a rolling pin to press the dough out.)
Sprinkle 1 teaspoonful of the salt over the rectangle of dough. Press the salt into the dough with your fingers.
Spread the lard generously over the dough.
(Although you can use a knife to spread the lard, it is easier, though less aesthetic, to do it with your fingers.) Sprinkle half of the chopped scallions over the rolled-out dough, then roll the dough up like a jelly roll. Pinch the ends of the roll together so the scallions don't fall out, then divide the roll into three sections, twisting the ends of each segment to keep the filling from falling out. Each piece should be roughly the size of a tennis ball.
Using more salt, lard, and the remaining scallions, do the same thing to the other half of the dough.
Just before you are ready to begin cooking the scallion cakes, take one of the balls and gently flatten it out into a circle about 8 inches in diameter. This is the trickiest part of making the scallion cakes, for it is very hard to keep them from breaking open slightly while you are flattening them and letting the scallions escape. (Even Mrs. Chiang has trouble keeping the scallion cakes from bursting while she is pressing them out. ) Luckily, it doesn't make too much difference if the cakes split slightly at this point. Make sure that the surface on which you are working is still well oiled.
While the first cake is cooking, you can press out the next. (You can't really flatten them all out in advance, because it is not a good idea to handle them very much before you cook them.)
COOKINGHeat a regular flat frying pan over a moderate flame and fill it with 1/4 inch of oil.
When the oil is quite hot and has just begun to smoke, put in the first scallion cake. Let the cake fry for about 3 minutes on each side, until it has turned golden brown and become quite crisp.
Remove the fried cake from the hot oil and let it drain on paper towels.
Fry all the other scallion cakes in the same way.
Serve each scallion cake cut into 8 wedge- shaped pieces. (Since the cake is so crisp, it may be easier to cut with a cleaver than with a regular knife.) Note : Although there is plenty of salt inside the scallion cakes, they are especially delicious if you salt their after they have been fried .
3 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup water
10 to 15 scallions (depending on their size)
1 1/2 teaspoons sesame oil, approximately 1 teaspoon salt 1 1/2 tablespoons lard, at room temperature, or peanut oil (if you fear cholesterol)
(half the scallions)1 teaspoon salt
1 1/2 tablespoons lard
(remaining scallions) 3 tablespoons peanut oil, approximately
PREPARATION
Mix the flour and the water together very well; you should get a very stiff dough. Set it aside for at least 30 minutes.
Trim the scallions, then chop them, both white part and green, into very fine pieces, about the size of a match head.
Since the dough for the scallion cakes has to be rolled out, you will need the same kind of a large flat surface that you use for making any other kind of pastry, a large wooden board or tabletop. Prepare the surface on which you are going to roll out the scallion cakes by sprinkling it with the sesame oil. (This serves the same purpose as flour in keeping the dough from sticking. )
Knead the dough for about a minute until it is easy to work with, then separate it into two balls. Take one ball and roll it out into a rectangle about 8 by 10 inches. (If you are using a rolling pin, make sure to rub it with some sesame oil so that the dough doesn't stick to it. You can also use your hands instead of a rolling pin to press the dough out.)
Sprinkle 1 teaspoonful of the salt over the rectangle of dough. Press the salt into the dough with your fingers.
Spread the lard generously over the dough.
(Although you can use a knife to spread the lard, it is easier, though less aesthetic, to do it with your fingers.) Sprinkle half of the chopped scallions over the rolled-out dough, then roll the dough up like a jelly roll. Pinch the ends of the roll together so the scallions don't fall out, then divide the roll into three sections, twisting the ends of each segment to keep the filling from falling out. Each piece should be roughly the size of a tennis ball.
Using more salt, lard, and the remaining scallions, do the same thing to the other half of the dough.
Just before you are ready to begin cooking the scallion cakes, take one of the balls and gently flatten it out into a circle about 8 inches in diameter. This is the trickiest part of making the scallion cakes, for it is very hard to keep them from breaking open slightly while you are flattening them and letting the scallions escape. (Even Mrs. Chiang has trouble keeping the scallion cakes from bursting while she is pressing them out. ) Luckily, it doesn't make too much difference if the cakes split slightly at this point. Make sure that the surface on which you are working is still well oiled.
While the first cake is cooking, you can press out the next. (You can't really flatten them all out in advance, because it is not a good idea to handle them very much before you cook them.)
COOKINGHeat a regular flat frying pan over a moderate flame and fill it with 1/4 inch of oil.
When the oil is quite hot and has just begun to smoke, put in the first scallion cake. Let the cake fry for about 3 minutes on each side, until it has turned golden brown and become quite crisp.
Remove the fried cake from the hot oil and let it drain on paper towels.
Fry all the other scallion cakes in the same way.
Serve each scallion cake cut into 8 wedge- shaped pieces. (Since the cake is so crisp, it may be easier to cut with a cleaver than with a regular knife.) Note : Although there is plenty of salt inside the scallion cakes, they are especially delicious if you salt their after they have been fried .
Blogging for the Environment- Save our environment with Green Power
10/10/2007
Green Power
Australia produces more damaging greenhouse gases per person than any other developed nation!
Scientists from around the world agree that the increase in man-made greenhouse gas emissions is the primary cause of global warming, leading to climate change.Anything we can do to reduce greenhouse gas emissions is vital to the future of our environment.
Green Power (Accredited GreenPower is electricity from a new renewable generation source, eg. wind or solar)
What I Did today?
I switched to Green Power with Origingreen, no more black electricity for me.There is no extra cost or any delay of electricity supply. so why don't you give them a call and change today!
Electricity / Natural Gas 13 GREEN or origingreen.com.au
Green Power
Australia produces more damaging greenhouse gases per person than any other developed nation!
Scientists from around the world agree that the increase in man-made greenhouse gas emissions is the primary cause of global warming, leading to climate change.Anything we can do to reduce greenhouse gas emissions is vital to the future of our environment.
Green Power (Accredited GreenPower is electricity from a new renewable generation source, eg. wind or solar)
What I Did today?
I switched to Green Power with Origingreen, no more black electricity for me.There is no extra cost or any delay of electricity supply. so why don't you give them a call and change today!
Electricity / Natural Gas 13 GREEN or origingreen.com.au
Tuesday, October 9, 2007
start an exercise ball program
Sitting on an exercise ball
The act of just sitting on an exercise ball is active and requires the core body muscles to work to hold the body upright and balanced on the ball. Until sitting on the exercise ball feels comfortable, it is often a good idea to not have the ball fully inflated—a slightly deflated exercise ball is more stable.
One can easily sit on the exercise ball while working at a desk or computer workstation and use it as an alternative to a traditional office chair. Others prefer to sit on it while watching television.
Whatever the use, sitting on an exercise ball at some point of the day is helpful to strengthen the core muscles that support the spine.
Beginning exercise ball stretches
There are several stretches that are easy to do when starting to use an exercise ball. Importantly, these stretching exercises help with proprioception, or the sense of the position or parts of the body relative to the rest of the body, and with balance.
Each of these stretches should be done slowly 8 to 12 times.
The act of just sitting on an exercise ball is active and requires the core body muscles to work to hold the body upright and balanced on the ball. Until sitting on the exercise ball feels comfortable, it is often a good idea to not have the ball fully inflated—a slightly deflated exercise ball is more stable.
Sit in the center of the ball with both feet firmly on the ground about shoulder width apart. If this is difficult, then use a wider stance.
The knees should be in line over the ankles.
Shoulders should be in line over the body (not hunching forward) and the head squarely over the neck (not leaning forward).
One can easily sit on the exercise ball while working at a desk or computer workstation and use it as an alternative to a traditional office chair. Others prefer to sit on it while watching television.
Whatever the use, sitting on an exercise ball at some point of the day is helpful to strengthen the core muscles that support the spine.
Beginning exercise ball stretches
There are several stretches that are easy to do when starting to use an exercise ball. Importantly, these stretching exercises help with proprioception, or the sense of the position or parts of the body relative to the rest of the body, and with balance.
Each of these stretches should be done slowly 8 to 12 times.
Move the hips from side-to-side. While sitting on the exercise ball (as described above) and keeping the knees still, move the hips gently from side to side. Pause for a second at the end of each sideways movement to allow for a gentle stretch.
Move hips from front-to-back. While keeping the knees still, place hands on the knees and rotate the hips forward by tucking the buttocks first under the pelvis, and then push them out behind the pelvis. All the motion should be limited to the hip area, not the knees or chest.- Circles - A more advanced exercise for the Swiss ball, start in the front/pelvic tilt position and slowly shift weight around in a circular motion, 3 times clockwise and 3 times counterclockwise.
Beginning exercise ball routine
The following two simple exercises are examples of how to use the exercise ball to help strengthen the stomach and low back muscles. These are both simple to do and are gentle on the back. Remember, for beginners, using a slightly deflated exercise ball provides more stability than a fully inflated ball and may be more comfortable. Each of these stretches should be done slowly 8 to 12 times.
Marching. While sitting on the exercise ball (as described above) start by lifting the heel of one foot off the floor, then go up onto the toe, eventually lifting the whole foot up. Hold for a second and then switch to the other side. Notice how much the stomach muscles have to contract to lift the foot off the floor.
Exercise ball squat. While standing with feet shoulder width apart, place the exercise ball against a wall and aligned with the lower back. Face away from the wall and lean back against it, pressing the ball between the lower back and the wall. Keep the hips aligned with the shoulders. Move both feet out so they are slightly in front of the hips. Bend the knees slightly down, then up. Start with a small movement and hold for one or two seconds in the down position and up position. Go slowly and do 10-12 repetitions.
For beginners, just getting started with some simple, safe and effective activities with the exercise ball is what’s important. After that, there is a wide range and variety of types of exercises that can be completed on an exercise ball, depending on one’s interest, ability and back condition.
Spine rotation with exercise balls
Sitting on the exercise ball, raise arms straight to front; without twisting at the spine, move both arms across the body to the right, bending the left elbow and keeping arms at shoulder height; move both arms to the left, bending left right elbow. Repeat 5 times to each side.
Add head movement to the arm movement by turning the head to the opposite direction from the arm movement, still without twisting at the spine. Repeat 5 times to each side.
Increase the difficulty by spreading feet slightly and twisting the spine in the direction of the arm movement, straightening the opposite knee and rocking forward slightly on the ball as necessary.
Mobility and stretching with the exercise ball
Sitting on the exercise ball with arms to sides, slowly walk feet out and lean back slightly, rolling ball to the upper back; raise arms over head and straighten knees to arch over the ball, moving it to the mid-spine and touching the hands to the floor. Hold stretch for 10 seconds before bending knees, bringing arms down and rolling to start position. Repeat 3 times.
Kneel with hands on the exercise ball; use hands to roll the exercise ball out from body, keeping back flat until hips and knees are at 90 degrees and back, head and arms are straight; roll the exercise ball slightly from side to side, 5 times on each side.
Kneel with chest resting on the exercise ball; roll forward and straighten knees, with ball at chest level, relax around the ball to stretch the upper spine.
Extension exercises with the Swiss ball
Bridge - Lay flat on the ground with legs straight. Place both legs together on the exercise ball at the calf area with arms at sides and hands flat on the floor; tighten and lift the buttocks up off the floor to straighten the back, keeping abdominal muscles tight and hold for 5 seconds. Return to start position. Repeat 3 to 5 times.
Bridge with leg - make this exercise more difficult by lifting one leg at a time 1 to 2 inches off the Swiss ball.
Bridge with arm - even more difficult, lift arms off the floor while bridging over the exercise ball.
Core body strength exercises
These back exercises using exercise balls are designed to strengthen the muscles that support the spine from the low back to the upper back, in front and in back. Specific muscles targeted by these exercises include the abdominal, chest and back muscles.
These core body strength exercises with the exercise ball can be very difficult to perform and should be learned with the help of an appropriately trained physical therapist or another type of spine specialist or exercise instructor. They are not advised for people with certain spine conditions (see Contraindications). Always consult with a physician before attempting these Swiss ball exercises or any other exercises.
Building core body strength with the exercise ball
Front walkout - Place chest on exercise ball and walk forward on hands as far as possible, rolling exercise ball from chest toward feet, keeping stomach muscles tight to keep lower back flat. Start by moving exercise ball to thighs; to increase difficulty move exercise ball to knees then feet. Walk hands back to starting position. Repeat 3 to 5 times.
Back walk-out - Sit on exercise ball with arms to sides; walk feet forward as far as possible, rolling exercise ball from buttocks toward neck, keeping stomach muscles tight to keep lower back flat and do not raise head. Start by moving exercise ball to upper back; to increase difficulty move exercise ball to neck. Walk feet back and return to sitting position. Repeat 3 to 5 times. For more difficulty, complete exercise with arms straight overhead; with exercise ball at neck, lift and straighten one leg at a time, 5 times each leg.
Reverse crunch - Place chest on exercise ball and walk forward on hands until ball is at kneecaps, keeping stomach muscles tight to keep lower back flat. Pull the ball up towards arms by bending at hips and knees, then straighten and push the ball back. Repeat 5 times. Walk hands back to starting position.
Reverse extension - Place chest on exercise ball and walk forward on hands until exercise ball is at kneecaps, keeping stomach muscles tight to keep lower back flat. Roll the ball to thighs by keeping hands in place, moving arms to an overhead position, bringing head and chest down near floor; return arms to perpendicular to body with exercise ball back at knee caps. Repeat 5 times. Walk hands back to starting position.
Combination - Complete the reverse crunch and reverse extension in one continuous, controlled movement, pulling exercise ball up to chest and extending back 5 times.
Abdominal exercises with the exercise ball
Half crunch - Sit on exercise ball with arms raised across chest or on hips; lean back half way, flexing at hips without moving feet but raising up on toes; use abdominal muscles to sit up without moving feet but rocking back on heels (see Fig. 5) Rock back and forth on the ball smoothly 5 times. Increase difficulty with arms straight overhead.
Obliques - Sit on exercise ball with arms raised straight overhead; lean back half way, flexing at hips without moving feet but raising up on toes; lower one arm at a time slowly towards the opposite knee. Alternate arms 10 times each side.
Full crunch - Sit on exercise ball with arms at sides and feet flat on floor and out in front, sitting slightly forward onball; lean back all the way, rolling ball to the low back then mid-back; keeping feet flat on the floor, use abdominal muscles to sit up. Repeat 5 times.
Sunday, October 7, 2007
Taco Terrier
The Taco Terrier is not a purebred dog.
It is a cross between the Chihuahua and the Toy Fox Terrier.
The best way to determine the temperament of a mixed breed is to look up all breeds in the cross and know you can get any combination of any of the characteristics found in either breed. This hybrid cross is recognized by the American Canine Hybrid Club. Not all of these designer hybrid dogs being bred are 50% purebred to 50% purebred. It is very common for breeders to breed multi-generation crosses.
Description
The Toy Fox Terrier is also known as the American Toy Terrier or Amertoy. The tail is docked short and carried high. The eyes are dark and round. The ears are v-shaped and erect. A definite stop separates the domed skull from the small narrow muzzle. The hair is short and thick. The coat is white with black and tan or tan markings. Other colors do occur.
Temperament
The Toy Fox Terrier may be physically small, but this is a robust little terrier that retains all the passion of its Fox Terrier ancestors. This breed thinks he is big! The breed is tough and bright, but stubborn. Curious and active, the Toy Fox Terrier keeps its young spirit throughout its life. They are intelligent, loving, sensitive and pleasant. It is very alert, inquisitive and quick. This is a companion dog that has not forgotten its ancient terrier instincts, and will therefore fight mice and small animals. This athletic little dog loves the hunt. Affectionate and very loyal. This breed is an exceptionally intelligent, trainable dog. Some have been trained to assist handicapped people around the home. It has proven to be an excellent hearing dog for the deaf. It can be trained to take its human companion to the sources of sounds, such as the telephone. The Toy Fox Terrier I met was not a yapper. His owner said he only barked when necessary. He was friendly with children, but I would not recommended him as a small child companion due to its tiny, fragile size. This happy dog is sure to bring smiles to the faces of nearly all who meet it, due to its energetic and forever youthful antics.
Height, Weight
Height: about 10 inches (25 cm.)Weight: 3.5-7 pounds (1.5-3 kg.)
Health Problems
This is a fairly healthy breed; however, some are prone to legg calve perthes and stifle, which are typical Toy problems. Some dogs are allergic to beet pulp (this is fairly common). Also corn, and wheat.
Living Conditions
The Toy Fox Terrier is good for apartment life. It is very active indoors and will do okay without a yard. It cannot tolerate cold weather. They should wear a coat in the winter to help keep it warm.
Exercise
Toy Fox Terriers are very active dogs, however they will pretty much take care of their own exercise needs.
Life Expectancy
About 13-14 years.
Grooming
The Toy Fox Terrier is easy to groom. Occasionally comb and brush the smooth coat. Keep the nails short. This breed is a light shedder.
Origin
The Toy Fox Terrier was developed in the USA in the 1930's. It is directly descended from the Smooth Fox Terrier, whose standard dates from 1876. It was miniaturized in the United States through careful breeding. Crosses with English Toy Terriers, Chihuahuas, and Italian Greyhounds have refined its features, and calmed its disposition. Its first use was hunting rats. It is currently seeking AKC recognition.
Group
Terrier
Chihuahua
Description
The Chihuahua is a tiny dog with an apple-shaped head and a short pointed muzzle. It has round, large, very dark eyes, sometimes dark ruby or luminous in color. The trademark large ears should be held erect. Puppies have a soft spot or "molera" on the top of the skull. The bone usually closes the gap by adulthood. The body is cobby (stout), longer than it is tall, and the tail is sickle-shaped - curled over the back or to the side. Besides the common short-haired variety there is also a long- haired type. Colors include fawn, sand, chestnut, silver and steel blue, but any color is accepted, including black & tan and parti-color. The dog is more robust than he looks, with a level back, and legs coming down straight and square.
Temperament
The Chihuahua is a good companion dog. Courageous, extremely lively, proud and enterprising, it gives and demands affection. Bold and saucy, it moves swiftly to avoid being stepped on. Chihuahua's are strong-willed, intensely loyal and become very attached to their owners, even to the point of jealousy. They like to lick their owner's faces. It is undeniably suspicious of people except for its owner. When strangers are present, it follows its owner's every move, keeping as close as possible. For some, they may be slightly difficult to train, but they are intelligent, learn quickly, and respond well to proper, gentle (positive reinforcement) training. This breed may snap at teasing children, after all it is too tiny to get away. The Chihuahua must resort to his sharp teeth in self defense. It is not recommended for children. He can be noisy and may require patience to housebreak. Many owners simply paper train this breed. Be sure to socialize your Chihuahua as a pup to avoid excessive aggressiveness with other dogs as well as reserve with strangers. They tend to be fairly dog-aggressive. Chihuahuas generally recognize their own breed, but sometimes disapprove of other breeds. However, a "very" well-socialized Chihuahua can be friendly with strangers and other dogs.
Height, Weight
Height: 6-9 inches (15-23 cm.)Weight: 2-6 pounds (1-3 kg.)
Health Problems
Because of his short nose, the Chihuahua tends to wheeze and snore. His prominent eyes are susceptible to corneal dryness and secondary glaucoma. Prone to slipped stifle, gum problems, colds, stress, and rheumatism. Don't let him lick or eat toxic products, fertilizer or chocolate. Feed lightly as it tends to gain weight. Chihuahua puppies are born with large heads, frequently necessitating cesarean deliveries by a skilled veterinarian. They are vulnerable to fractures and other accidents in puppyhood. Some of the breed have a molera, an unclosed section of the skull which can remain open throughout life. This makes the dog prone to injury.
Living Conditions
The Chihuahua hates the cold and may shiver. It will tolerate and even appreciate a warm sweater on cooler days. They are good little dogs for apartment life.
Exercise
Although it is tempting to carry these dainty creatures about, they will keep fitter if taken for walks. A body harness is safer than a collar. Don't think that just because he is small he should be confined to a small space.
Life Expectancy
About 15 or more years.
Grooming
The smooth, short-haired coat should be gently brushed occasionally or simply wiped over with a damp cloth. The long coat should be brushed daily with a soft bristle brush. Bathe both types about once per month, taking care not to get water in the ears. Check the ears regularly and keep the nails trimmed. This breed is an average shedder.
Origin
This is the oldest breed on the American continent and the smallest breed in the world. Native to Mexico, nonetheless it seems to have been introduced by the Chinese. It was only brought to Europe at the end of the nineteenth century. The Chihuahua is named after the Mexican state of Chihuahua where he was brought to the rest of the world by travelers. This breed is believed to have been sacred to the Pre-Columbian Indian nations. The most valued dogs weigh under 2-1/4 pounds (1.3 kg.). Some can even stand on all fours in a person's palm! There is a long-haired variety that is judged separately, but is essentially the same except for the coat. The Chihuahua is a popular, economical companion dog.
Group
Southern, AKC Toy
Chihuahua Fox Mix Terrier
Chihuahua fox mix terrier training can be fun, so contact a rescue for available dogs. The mixture of breeds in such dogs gives them their unique character and curious look. Such dogs are challenging, demanding for human attention and very intelligent. They suffer less from genetic defects and disorders than purebred dogs because they have genes of two breeds. The American Mixed Breed Obedience Registration established in 1983 aims at improving opportunities for mixed-breed dogs and organizes different shows and competitions for them and their owners. Such dogs are good at agility, tracking, obedience and make excellent family pets. Chihuahua fox mix terrier training can be fun, so contact a rescue for available dogs.
It is a cross between the Chihuahua and the Toy Fox Terrier.
The best way to determine the temperament of a mixed breed is to look up all breeds in the cross and know you can get any combination of any of the characteristics found in either breed. This hybrid cross is recognized by the American Canine Hybrid Club. Not all of these designer hybrid dogs being bred are 50% purebred to 50% purebred. It is very common for breeders to breed multi-generation crosses.
Description
The Toy Fox Terrier is also known as the American Toy Terrier or Amertoy. The tail is docked short and carried high. The eyes are dark and round. The ears are v-shaped and erect. A definite stop separates the domed skull from the small narrow muzzle. The hair is short and thick. The coat is white with black and tan or tan markings. Other colors do occur.
Temperament
The Toy Fox Terrier may be physically small, but this is a robust little terrier that retains all the passion of its Fox Terrier ancestors. This breed thinks he is big! The breed is tough and bright, but stubborn. Curious and active, the Toy Fox Terrier keeps its young spirit throughout its life. They are intelligent, loving, sensitive and pleasant. It is very alert, inquisitive and quick. This is a companion dog that has not forgotten its ancient terrier instincts, and will therefore fight mice and small animals. This athletic little dog loves the hunt. Affectionate and very loyal. This breed is an exceptionally intelligent, trainable dog. Some have been trained to assist handicapped people around the home. It has proven to be an excellent hearing dog for the deaf. It can be trained to take its human companion to the sources of sounds, such as the telephone. The Toy Fox Terrier I met was not a yapper. His owner said he only barked when necessary. He was friendly with children, but I would not recommended him as a small child companion due to its tiny, fragile size. This happy dog is sure to bring smiles to the faces of nearly all who meet it, due to its energetic and forever youthful antics.
Height, Weight
Height: about 10 inches (25 cm.)Weight: 3.5-7 pounds (1.5-3 kg.)
Health Problems
This is a fairly healthy breed; however, some are prone to legg calve perthes and stifle, which are typical Toy problems. Some dogs are allergic to beet pulp (this is fairly common). Also corn, and wheat.
Living Conditions
The Toy Fox Terrier is good for apartment life. It is very active indoors and will do okay without a yard. It cannot tolerate cold weather. They should wear a coat in the winter to help keep it warm.
Exercise
Toy Fox Terriers are very active dogs, however they will pretty much take care of their own exercise needs.
Life Expectancy
About 13-14 years.
Grooming
The Toy Fox Terrier is easy to groom. Occasionally comb and brush the smooth coat. Keep the nails short. This breed is a light shedder.
Origin
The Toy Fox Terrier was developed in the USA in the 1930's. It is directly descended from the Smooth Fox Terrier, whose standard dates from 1876. It was miniaturized in the United States through careful breeding. Crosses with English Toy Terriers, Chihuahuas, and Italian Greyhounds have refined its features, and calmed its disposition. Its first use was hunting rats. It is currently seeking AKC recognition.
Group
Terrier
Chihuahua
Description
The Chihuahua is a tiny dog with an apple-shaped head and a short pointed muzzle. It has round, large, very dark eyes, sometimes dark ruby or luminous in color. The trademark large ears should be held erect. Puppies have a soft spot or "molera" on the top of the skull. The bone usually closes the gap by adulthood. The body is cobby (stout), longer than it is tall, and the tail is sickle-shaped - curled over the back or to the side. Besides the common short-haired variety there is also a long- haired type. Colors include fawn, sand, chestnut, silver and steel blue, but any color is accepted, including black & tan and parti-color. The dog is more robust than he looks, with a level back, and legs coming down straight and square.
Temperament
The Chihuahua is a good companion dog. Courageous, extremely lively, proud and enterprising, it gives and demands affection. Bold and saucy, it moves swiftly to avoid being stepped on. Chihuahua's are strong-willed, intensely loyal and become very attached to their owners, even to the point of jealousy. They like to lick their owner's faces. It is undeniably suspicious of people except for its owner. When strangers are present, it follows its owner's every move, keeping as close as possible. For some, they may be slightly difficult to train, but they are intelligent, learn quickly, and respond well to proper, gentle (positive reinforcement) training. This breed may snap at teasing children, after all it is too tiny to get away. The Chihuahua must resort to his sharp teeth in self defense. It is not recommended for children. He can be noisy and may require patience to housebreak. Many owners simply paper train this breed. Be sure to socialize your Chihuahua as a pup to avoid excessive aggressiveness with other dogs as well as reserve with strangers. They tend to be fairly dog-aggressive. Chihuahuas generally recognize their own breed, but sometimes disapprove of other breeds. However, a "very" well-socialized Chihuahua can be friendly with strangers and other dogs.
Height, Weight
Height: 6-9 inches (15-23 cm.)Weight: 2-6 pounds (1-3 kg.)
Health Problems
Because of his short nose, the Chihuahua tends to wheeze and snore. His prominent eyes are susceptible to corneal dryness and secondary glaucoma. Prone to slipped stifle, gum problems, colds, stress, and rheumatism. Don't let him lick or eat toxic products, fertilizer or chocolate. Feed lightly as it tends to gain weight. Chihuahua puppies are born with large heads, frequently necessitating cesarean deliveries by a skilled veterinarian. They are vulnerable to fractures and other accidents in puppyhood. Some of the breed have a molera, an unclosed section of the skull which can remain open throughout life. This makes the dog prone to injury.
Living Conditions
The Chihuahua hates the cold and may shiver. It will tolerate and even appreciate a warm sweater on cooler days. They are good little dogs for apartment life.
Exercise
Although it is tempting to carry these dainty creatures about, they will keep fitter if taken for walks. A body harness is safer than a collar. Don't think that just because he is small he should be confined to a small space.
Life Expectancy
About 15 or more years.
Grooming
The smooth, short-haired coat should be gently brushed occasionally or simply wiped over with a damp cloth. The long coat should be brushed daily with a soft bristle brush. Bathe both types about once per month, taking care not to get water in the ears. Check the ears regularly and keep the nails trimmed. This breed is an average shedder.
Origin
This is the oldest breed on the American continent and the smallest breed in the world. Native to Mexico, nonetheless it seems to have been introduced by the Chinese. It was only brought to Europe at the end of the nineteenth century. The Chihuahua is named after the Mexican state of Chihuahua where he was brought to the rest of the world by travelers. This breed is believed to have been sacred to the Pre-Columbian Indian nations. The most valued dogs weigh under 2-1/4 pounds (1.3 kg.). Some can even stand on all fours in a person's palm! There is a long-haired variety that is judged separately, but is essentially the same except for the coat. The Chihuahua is a popular, economical companion dog.
Group
Southern, AKC Toy
Chihuahua Fox Mix Terrier
Chihuahua fox mix terrier training can be fun, so contact a rescue for available dogs. The mixture of breeds in such dogs gives them their unique character and curious look. Such dogs are challenging, demanding for human attention and very intelligent. They suffer less from genetic defects and disorders than purebred dogs because they have genes of two breeds. The American Mixed Breed Obedience Registration established in 1983 aims at improving opportunities for mixed-breed dogs and organizes different shows and competitions for them and their owners. Such dogs are good at agility, tracking, obedience and make excellent family pets. Chihuahua fox mix terrier training can be fun, so contact a rescue for available dogs.
Jack Russell Terrier 2 -Temperament
The Jack Russell Terrier is a perky, merry, devoted, and loving dog. Spirited and obedient, yet absolutely fearless.
Careful and amusing, he enjoys games and playing with toys. Friendly and generally kind to children who have been taught not to tease or strike the dog.
They are intelligent, yet willful and determined.
They can be slightly difficult to train and need a firm, experienced trainer. The Jack Russell can be aggressive with other dogs if not well trained and socialized. Some have killed or been killed in dog fights. Early socialization can help substantially moderate this trait.
They have strong hunting instincts (stronger than your average terrier) and should not be trusted with other small animals. They like to chase and explore. Be careful not to let them off the lead unless they are very well-trained.
Jack Russells like to bark and dig. They tend to get restless and destructive if not kept fruitfully occupied and well exercised.
Jack Russells climb, which means they can climb over a fence, they also jump. A Jack that stands 12 inches high can easily jump five feet. JRTs are not the breed for a inexperienced dog owner. This is a BIG dog in a little dogs body. The owner needs to be as strong-willed as they are, or this little guy will take over. With the right owner this little dog can really excel, but is not recommended for those who have not had prior experience with terriers. The Jack Russell Terrier must present a lively, active and alert appearance. It should impress with its fearless and happy disposition. It should be remembered that the Jack Russell is a working terrier and should retain these instincts. Nervousness, cowardice or over-aggressiveness should be discouraged and it should always appear confident.
Careful and amusing, he enjoys games and playing with toys. Friendly and generally kind to children who have been taught not to tease or strike the dog.
They are intelligent, yet willful and determined.
They can be slightly difficult to train and need a firm, experienced trainer. The Jack Russell can be aggressive with other dogs if not well trained and socialized. Some have killed or been killed in dog fights. Early socialization can help substantially moderate this trait.
They have strong hunting instincts (stronger than your average terrier) and should not be trusted with other small animals. They like to chase and explore. Be careful not to let them off the lead unless they are very well-trained.
Jack Russells like to bark and dig. They tend to get restless and destructive if not kept fruitfully occupied and well exercised.
Jack Russells climb, which means they can climb over a fence, they also jump. A Jack that stands 12 inches high can easily jump five feet. JRTs are not the breed for a inexperienced dog owner. This is a BIG dog in a little dogs body. The owner needs to be as strong-willed as they are, or this little guy will take over. With the right owner this little dog can really excel, but is not recommended for those who have not had prior experience with terriers. The Jack Russell Terrier must present a lively, active and alert appearance. It should impress with its fearless and happy disposition. It should be remembered that the Jack Russell is a working terrier and should retain these instincts. Nervousness, cowardice or over-aggressiveness should be discouraged and it should always appear confident.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)