The other dogs of Sex and the City
Bridget the humping Yorkie isn't the only dog in the new "Sex and the City" movie.
In what may be a sign of dog-friendlier times -- or may be an indication that directors find dog actors easier to manage -- all three of Carrie Bradshaw's (Sarah Jessica Parker) sidekicks are pet owners in the movie version of the popular television show.
And that gives the folks at the American Kennel Club, and animal shelters everywhere, a bit of pause.
Dogs breeds featured in mega-movies often tend to become fads, leading to impulse buys that don't always work out well.
In the movie, Charlotte (played by Kristin Davis), still owns the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel “Elizabeth Taylor,” but has added two high-energy Parson Russell Terriers to her family. Miranda (played by Cynthia Nixon) has a Border Collie and Samantha (played by Kim Cattrall) has a rescued Yorkshire Terrier.
“People who see 'Sex and the City' may think about owning one of the dogs featured in the film,” said Lisa Peterson, AKC spokesperson. “Each of these wonderful breeds has its own distinct traits and personalities. ... But remember before you add a new member to your family, realize that ownership will be a 10-to 15-year commitment for the life of the dog.”
The AKC recommends researching different breeds before getting a dog, and offers the following breed-specific advice regarding the canines featured in the movie:
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel: Cavaliers are house dogs who want to be with their human family members and will follow them from room-to-room. Puppies need socialization and training to become well-adjusted, well-trained members of the family. This breed loves children who are gentle and well-behaved. Children who are loud, boisterous or rough may frighten the Cavalier. Cavaliers are a long-haired breed and need regular grooming to avoid a tangled or matted coat. A fenced in yard is a must for a Cavalier. The gate must be secure enough at the bottom so the dog cannot slip or dig out from underneath and at least 4 feet tall.
Parson Russell Terrier: A perky, devoted, and loving dog. Spirited and obedient, yet absolutely fearless. They are friendly and generally kind to children who have been taught not to tease or strike the dog. They like to chase and explore. Be careful not to let them off-leash unless they are very well-trained. The Parson Russell Terrier needs to be taken on a long, daily, brisk walk and tend to get restless and destructive if not kept occupied and exercised. Parson Russell Terriers are very active indoors and can be slightly difficult to train. A first-time owner may need the help of an experienced trainer. The Parson Russell needs early socialization and training in order to get along with other dogs.
Yorkshire Terrier: Yorkies are a small toy breed, weighing 3 to 7 pounds, yet behave like a big dog in a small body. This breed loves to play and investigate and receive attention. Yorkies are best with children who are gentle, well-behaved and over the age of six. Yorkies are popular with those who live in large cities. Their small size makes them ideal for an apartment. The Yorkie’s long, silky coat needs to be brushed every day so it won’t get matted. It will also need shampooing once a week and some trimming.
Border Collie: One of the most athletic sheep-herding dogs, the Border Collie loves to work. They will herd almost anything that moves – including children, cars, and other dogs. Border Collies are extremely high energy, need a lot of daily physical exercise, and constant mental stimulation to be happy. They are best suited with an athletic person or family that is ready to engage the dog in directed activities such as playing Frisbee or performing in agility competitions. If Border Collies aren't continuously challenged, they can easily become destructive in their boredom. Border Collies do shed and require regular grooming.
Comments
the new Yorkie "Gidget Gormely" that plays Samathas humping dog "Baby"
is a yorkie/silky mix (I think ? ) and if you go to gidgets blog gidgetgormley.com
its has a very clear message
Adopt don't Shop
Gidget made a donation to Friendsofsnuffy.com with some of her satc money
Posted by: mary gormley | June 5, 2008 1:52 PM
Hmm. I once worked with a woman who had a farm out in Baltimore County and who was devoted to rescuing the Parson Russell's slightly more raffish cousin the Jack Russell. A lot of them were abandoned when people saw Eddie the dog on "Frasier," thought he was cute, and soon discovered they'd gotten more dog than they bargained for. These little guys stash a hundred pounds of heart and muscle into their little ten pound bodies. They're a big dog in a small package, and they need a lot of firm guidance and a *big* fenced yard. Apartments and row houses are not their venue. In this neighborhood, one got loose from the rooftop balcony of her owners and spent an entire afternoon terrifying everyone on the block as she ran up and down the rooftop ledges of the entire row of houses. Too many of these guys meet terrible fates. They may be abandoned--hopefully in a shelter but too often by being passed on to an unsuspecting new owner overcome by the "cuteness factor." Or worse, they may be struck and killed by cars whose drivers can't see them.
If you live in the city, or if you don't have a lot of time to devote to working with the dog, please put the needs of the dog above your own wishes and don't choose a Parson Russell (or a Jack Russell).
Posted by: Anne | June 5, 2008 2:23 PM