Canine and Feline Reproduction, Breeds, and Care: A Comprehensive Guide

What is the scientific name for the domestic dog?

Canis familiaris

What is a pack in canine social structure?

A social group of dogs.

What is the term for a female dog?

Dam

What is the term for a male dog?

Sire

What is a stud dog?

An intact male dog that has not fathered offspring.

What is the purpose of breeding dogs?

To mate and produce offspring.

What defines a working dog?

A dog used to perform practical tasks, as opposed to being a pet or companion.

What is an alpha dog?

The most dominant dog in a pack.

What can changes in the pecking order of a dog pack lead to?

Behavioral and physical health problems.

At what age does puberty typically occur in dogs?

Anywhere from six to eight months to over a year, depending on the breed.

How often do most dog breeds come into estrus?

Twice a year.

What does it mean for a dog to be 'in heat'?

The dog is receptive to mating and has released an egg from the ovary.

What are the four stages of the canine estrous cycle?

Proestrus, estrus, diestrus, and anestrus.

What happens during the proestrus stage?

The first day of bleeding occurs and the vulva swells.

What is pyometra?

A condition that occurs during diestrus characterized by pus leaking from the vulva and other clinical signs.

What hormone rises during ovulation in dogs?

Progesterone.

What is the average duration of pregnancy in dogs?

Approximately 63 days.

What is parturition in dogs referred to as?

Whelping.

What are the three stages of labor in dogs?

1. Uterine contractions and dilation of the cervix, 2. Expulsion of the fetus, 3. Expulsion of the placenta.

What is the neonatal stage for puppies?

0-2 weeks, where puppies are completely dependent on their mother.

What is pseudopregnancy in dogs?

A condition where a dog exhibits signs of pregnancy without being pregnant.

What is the common term for ovariohysterectomy?

Spaying.

What is the common term for orchiectomy?

Neutering or castration.

What are the benefits of spaying and neutering dogs?

Prevention of overpopulation, reduced risk of certain diseases, and fewer behavioral problems.

What defines a purebred dog?

A dog bred only to dogs of the same breed.

What is a mixed-breed dog?

A dog with uncertain ancestry or multiple types of dogs in its family tree.

What organization is the main authority for dog breed standards?

The American Kennel Club (AKC)

What are some characteristics used to describe dog breeds?

Color, size, stance, head size, and shape (especially tails and ears)

What types of competitions do show dogs participate in?

Large scale shows with numerous judges and standards, field trials, dock diving, and agility courses

What are working breeds known for?

Dogs with a job to do, such as guarding, sledding, or herding

Name three examples of working dog breeds.

German Shepherd, Saint Bernard, Siberian Husky

What are sporting breeds developed for?

To work closely with hunters to locate and/or retrieve quarry

List some examples of sporting dog breeds.

Spaniels, Pointers, Retrievers, Setters

What are the primary traits of terriers?

Feisty and energetic, often eager for spirited argument

Name two examples of terrier breeds.

Cairn Terrier, Airedale Terrier

What is a common trait among hound breeds?

They are used for hunting and often have acute scenting powers

List some examples of hound breeds.

Basset Hound, Greyhound, Beagle

What defines toy breeds?

Small in size but big in personality

Name two examples of toy breeds.

Chihuahua, Maltese

What characterizes non-sporting breeds?

A diverse group of breeds with varying sizes, coats, and personalities

List some examples of non-sporting breeds.

Boston Terrier, Bulldog, Shiba Inu

What is the scientific name for domestic cats?

Felis Catus

What is a queen in feline terms?

An unspayed female cat

What is the typical age for feline puberty?

6 to 8 months old

What is unique about cat ovulation?

Cats are induced ovulators, meaning breeding stimulates egg release

What are the stages of the feline estrous cycle?

Anestrous, Proestrus, Estrus, Metestrus

What is the typical length of pregnancy in cats?

63 days

What is queening in cats?

The process of giving birth to kittens

What is the neonatal stage for kittens?

0-2 weeks, where they are completely dependent on their mother

When do kittens typically begin to use the litter box?

During the socialization stage, around 2-7 weeks

What is the common term for ovariohysterectomy in female cats?

Spay

What is the common term for orchiectomy in male cats?

Neuter or castration

What are some benefits of spaying and neutering pets?

Prevention of overpopulation, reduced disease risk, fewer behavioral problems

What vaccinations do dogs typically receive?

Distemper, parvovirus, rabies, and others depending on location

What vaccinations do cats typically receive?

Feline viral rhinotracheitis, calicivirus, rabies, and feline leukemia for outdoor cats

What is husbandry in pet care?

The care and maintenance required to keep pets happy and healthy

What is taurine and why is it important for cats?

An amino acid essential for preventing retinal degeneration and other health issues