AFFENPINSCHER

Weighing 7 to 9 pounds (3-4 kg) and not exceeding 11 inches (24-30 cm) in height at the withers,[2] the affenpinscher has harsh rough coat and a monkey-like expression (Affe means monkey in German). Its coat is shaggier over the head and shoulders forming a mane, with shorter coat over the back and hind quarters. It is harsh and wiry in texture. The FCI and UK breed standards specifies that the coat must be black,[2][3] but the AKC also allows gray, silver, red,and tan, and belge (not beige; belge is a mixture of red, black and white hairs);[4] other clubs have their own lists of acceptable colours, with black being the preference. The affenpinscher is a dog with a shaggy, wiry-type coat.
Affenpinschers have a distinct appearance that some associate with terriers. They are different from terriers, however, in that they are actually part of the pinscher-schnauzer of group 2 in the FCI classification and so often get along with other dogs and pets. They are active, adventurous, curious, and stubborn, but they are also fun-loving and playful. The breed is confident, lively, affectionate towards family members and is also very protective of them. This loyal little dog enjoys being with its family. It needs consistent, firm training because some can be quite difficult to housebreak. The training should be varied because the dog can easily become bored. The affenpinscher has a terrier like personality.

Affenpinschers are somewhat territorial when it comes to their toys and food, so they are not recommended for very small children. This dog is mostly quiet but can become very excited if attacked or threatened and shows no fear toward any aggressor. It is best suited for a family who likes a show and has a sense of humor.

AFGHAN HOUND

The Afghan Hound is tall, standing 24 to 29 inches (61 to 74 cm) in height and weighing 45 to 60 pounds (20 to 27 kg). The coat may be any colour, but white markings, particularly on the head, are discouraged; many individuals have a black facial mask. Some specimens have facial hair that looks like a Fu Manchu moustache that are called "mandarins." Some Afghan Hounds are almost white, but particolour hounds (white with islands of red or black) are not acceptable and may indicate impure breeding. The long, fine-textured coat requires considerable care and grooming. The long topknot and the shorter-haired saddle on the back in the miniature dog are distinctive features of the Afghan Hound coat. The high hipbones and unique small ring on the end of the tail are also characteristics of the breed.
The temperament of the typical Afghan Hound can be aloof and dignified, but happy and clownish when playing. This breed, as is the case with many sighthounds, has a high prey drive and may not get along with small animals. The Afghan Hounds' reasoning skills have made it a successful competitor in dog agility trials as well as an intuitive therapy dog and companion. Genomic studies have pointed to the Afghan Hound as one of the oldest of dog breeds.[1]

The breed has a reputation among some dog trainers of having a relatively slow "obedience intelligence" as defined by author Stanley Coren.[2]

Although seldom used today for hunting in Europe and America where they are popular, Afghan hounds are frequent participants in lure coursing events and are also popular in the sport of conformation showing.

AIDI

Standing 21 to 25 inches (53 to 63 cm) in height and weighing around 55 pounds (25 kg), the Aidi's lean, muscular body is protected by a coarse, thick, weather-resistant coat with a heavy plumed tail. The head is bear-like and in proportion to the rest of the body. The breed has a tapered muzzle with a black or brown nose that usually matches the coat. Their jaws are strong with tight black or brown lips. The medium-sized ears are tipped forward and drop slightly. The eyes are medium, with a dark colour and dark rims. Coat colours are white, black, black and white, pale red, and tawny.
The Aidi is energetic and highly protective and is said to make an outstanding watchdog. It is a powerful dog that is also agile, alert, and ready for action. As a sensitive breed, the dog should receive kind yet firm training.
The Aidi is recognized as coming from Morocco, probably originating in the Sahara. The dog has never worked as a sheepdog even though the 1963 standard was published under the name Atlas Sheepdog; this was corrected in 1969. A courageous dog, the Aidi lived and worked in the Atlas Mountains of Morocco, Libya, and Algeria protecting his owner and property from wildcats, other predators, and strangers. This breed has also been called the Berber, after the Berber tribes who utilized it, and bears some resemblance to the Pariah dog who is believed to share its ancestry. As a protector of the desert nomad tribes, the most alert and aggressive dogs were staked around the perimeter of the camp at night. The Aidi has not been highly regarded by the tribes historically, as are most dogs other than the Sloughi and other breeds regarded as noble. However, Moroccans have recently formed a club to protect the purity of the breed which has contributed so much in so many roles, as protector, hunter, police dog, and pet. Although the Aidi has been used primarily as a working dog, he has become more common as a house dog in the country. This breed also makes a good urban pet if he is given tasks and exercise enough to keep him satisfied and happy.

AIREDALE TERRIER

Description


The Airedale Terrier is the largest of the terriers and stands square in appearance. The skull is about the same length as the muzzle, with a very slight stop that is hard to see. The head is long and flat. The nose is black. The teeth should meet in a level, vice-like or scissors bite. The small eyes are dark in color. The v-shaped ears fold slightly to the side of the head and forward. The chest is deep. The topline of the back is level. The front legs are pefectly straight. The tail is set high on on the back. The double coat has a hard, dense and wiry outer coat with a soft undercoat. Coat colors include tan and black and tan and grizzle. The head and ears should be tan, with the ears being a slightly darker shade of tan. The legs, thighs, elbows and the under part of the body and chest are also tan, sometimes running into the shoulder. In some lines there is a small white blaze on the chest. The back of the dog, sides and upper parts of the body should be black or dark grizzle in color.

Temperament
The Airedale Terrier will usually do okay with children if they have early exposure and socialization, however they may play too rough for very small ones. Courageous and protective. Fairly friendly with strangers. Intelligent, pleasant and loyal. Sensitive and responsive, he can be obedience trained at a high level. Airedale Terriers are fun-loving and playful  when they are puppies. Airedales will be happy to please you, if there is nothing more pressing in the environment (chipmunk, other dog, food). An Airedale is extremely loyal, but as an avid hunter you would have to be an ace trainer to get him to come away from a chipmunk even for raw steak! They are naturally lively and can be very rowdy if they do not receive enough daily mental and physical exercise. Train this dog not to jump on humans. The Airedale Terrier needs proper obedience training and an owner who knows how to be "Top Dog". The Airedale Terrier may have dominance challenges toward family members he sees as submissive. This can lead to willfulness and disobedience. They are not difficult to train, but they do not respond to harsh overbearing training methods. The Airedale Terrier is intelligent enough to perceive quickly what is required of it, but if you ask it to do the same thing over and over again it may refuse. Try to give it some variety to its training, making the exercise a challenge. They need a calm, but firm, confident and consistent handler. With the right handler, the Airedale Terrier can do well in various dog sports including defense dog trials. This breed generally gets along well with household cats and other animals, but they sometimes try to dominate other dogs. This depends upon the way the humans around the dog treat him, their training and the individual dog.

Height, Weight
Height: Dogs 22-24 inches (56-61 cm.)    Bitches 22-23 inches (56-58 cm.)
Weight: Dogs 50-65 pounds (23-29 kg.)  Bitches 40-45 pounds (18-20 kg.)

Health Problems
A very hardy breed, although some may suffer from eye problems, hip dysplasia and skin infections. If your Airedale Terrier has dry skin, he should be fed an adjusted omega-6/omega-3 fatty acid ratio in the diet.

Living Conditions
The Airedale Terrier is not recommended for apartment life. They are very active indoors and will do best with at least an average-sized yard.

Exercise
Airedales were bred for active work, and therefore need plenty of exercise. They need to be taken for long daily walks. Most of them love to play with a ball, swim, or retrieve objects and once fully grown will happily run alongside a bicycle. Without enough attention and exercise the Airedale Terrier will become restless and bored and will usually get itself into trouble. The exercise requirement can go down somewhat after the first two years (as with many dogs) but the first two years with an Airedale are very strenuous on the human. Then they start to get much more mellow.

Life Expectancy
About 10-12 years.

Litter Size
Average of 9 puppies

Grooming
Airedales have a hard, short-haired, double coat. The hair should be plucked about twice a year, but for dogs that are to be shown, much more intensive grooming is needed. Trim excessive hair between the pads of the feet when necessary. If you keep the coat stripped it will shed little to no hair, however if you do not strip the coat, you will most likely find fur piles around your baseboards, even with trimming, and brushing almost every day. They actually require a good bit of grooming. Burrs stick in the coat and beard. The beard should be washed daily because of food residue. Airedale Terriers can be good for some allergy sufferers.

Origin
The first Airedales looked completely different from the Airedales of today. They were originally known as the Waterside and Bingley Terriers, descended from the now extinct black-and-tan type terrier. The breed was later crossed with the Otterhound to make him a better swimmer. It is also said to have Manchester Terrier in its blood. They were developed about a hundred years ago in the country of York from the ancient Working Terrier. The Airedale is often called "The King of Terriers,". The breed was used as a vermin hunter and was named for the Valley of the Aire in England, which was heavily populated with small game. In addition to his role as a small game hunter, the Airedale has been used to hunt big game in India, Africa, and Canada. The breed was also used as a police dog and a wartime guard in World War II. Today the Airedale is primarily a companion dog, but there are still working lines out there. Some of the Airedale's talents are guarding, watchdog, hunting, rodent control, tracking, military work, police work, and competitive obedience.

AKITA INU

The breed stands anywhere from 60–66 cm (24–26 in) at the withers. Females weigh anywhere from 30–45 kg (70–100 lb) and males are 35–54 kg (75–119 lb). The Akita Inu comes in only five colors: Red, Fawn, Sesame, Brindle, and Pure White. All except white must have whitish hair on the sides of the muzzle, on the cheeks, the neck, chest, body and tail. Black masks, as seen in the American Akita, are not permitted in the Japanese Akita Inu.

All colors are accepted in the American Akita. The Pinto color is not accepted as a Japanese Akita color, but is as an American Akita color. In the U.S., some breeders interbreed the original Japanese type with the heavier American type, which is larger, and allows more colors. It is felt by some that combining the two types leads to improved appearance and genetic health by increasing genetic diversity. It has often been commented that the Japanese Akita has an extraordinary elegance. There is only a single Akita breed registered by the American Kennel Club; in all other countries besides Canada the breed has been separated into two breeds: the Akita Inu and the American Akita.
Akita Inu are renowned as loyal dogs and are also intelligent. The loyalty of an Akita named Hachiko established the breed as truly loyal to their owners.[1] The famous Akita Hachiko spent nine years waiting daily at the Shibuya railway station for his deceased master to return home. Hachiko's popularity brought back the Akita from the brink of extinction.

Because of their intelligence, Akitas get bored very easily. As a result, they often become destructive and aggressive if not given anything to do. Akita Inu can live happily in apartments as long as they are given plenty of exercise. They need to be socialized as puppies so they are friendly dogs and should have experienced owners. Although they love human companionship, they are quite happy to be outside dogs as well, but should still be taken out for walks to prevent destruction of the yard. Akita Inu often become excitable when seeing their owners, often wiggling around and making happy grunts.

Akita Inu are very good with youngsters from their own family, and often quite playful, although they should be watched around other people's children as they could knock them over during play.

The Akita Inu have a reputation for sometimes being aggressive towards smaller animals or other dogs, particularly those of the same sex. However they can live happily with other dogs and animals providing they are socialized well. They are excellent guard dogs and naturally protective of their home and family. The Akita Inu has a reputation for being an excellent house dog. They make great family dogs with the right training and socialization.

ALASKAN MALAMUTE

The American Kennel Club (AKC) breed standard calls for a natural range of size, with a desired freighting size of 23 inches (584 mm) and 75 pounds (34 kg) for females, 25 inches (635 mm) and 85 pounds (39 kg) for males. Heavier individuals (90 lb (41 kg)) and dogs smaller than 75 pounds (34 kg) are commonly seen. There is often a marked size difference between males and females. Weights upwards of 120 pounds (54 kg) are occasionally seen, but this is uncommon and such dogs are produced primarily by breeders who market a 'giant Malamute.' These large sizes are not in accordance with the breed's history or show standards.

The coat is a dense double northern dog coat, somewhat "harsher" (in a certain sense) than that of the smaller Siberian Husky. The usual colors are various shades of gray and white, sable and white, black and white, red and white, or solid white. Blue and white (slate gray with gray pigment) also is seen in the breed. Eyes are almond-shaped and are always various shades of brown (from dark to light, honey or hazel brown); blue eyed Malamutes will be disqualified in conformation shows, as they would not be a purebred Malamute, but mixed with perhaps a Siberian Husky. The physical build of the Malamute is compact with heavy bone, in most (but not all) cases. In this context 'compact' means that their height to length ratio is slightly longer than tall, unlike dogs like Great Danes which are longer and lankier in their ratios.
An adult Alaskan Malamute

According to the AKC breed standard, the Malamute's tail is well furred and is carried over the back like a "waving plume". Corkscrew tails are occasionally seen but are faulted in the AKC breed standard (a corkscrew tail is commonly seen in the Akita). The Malamutes' well-furred tails aid in keeping them warm when they curl up in the snow. They are often seen wrapping the tail around their nose and face, which presumably helps protect them against harsh weather such as blowing snow. Their ears are generally upright.
A few Malamutes are still in use as sled dogs for personal travel, hauling freight, or helping move heavy objects, some however are used for the recreational pursuit of sledding also known as mushing, also skijoring, bikejoring, and canicross. However, most Malamutes today are kept as family pets or show dogs or performance dogs in Weight pulling Dog agility or packing. The Malamute is generally slower in long-distance dogsled racing against smaller and faster breeds and their working usefulness is limited to freighting or traveling over long distances at a far slower rate than that required for racing. They can also help move heavy objects over shorter distances.

The Malamute retains more of its original form and function than many other modern breeds. If a dog owner cannot cope with a dog that will not comply with the owner's every command, a more compliant breed should be selected. This dog has a long genetic foundation of living in the harshest environment imaginable, and many of its behaviors are evolved to conform with "survival of the fittest." Independence, resourcefulness and primitive behaviors are common in the breed. While intelligent, they are widely believed to be one of the most difficult dogs to train. However, if the training is kept fun for the dog and not repetitively boring, success is within reach.

There is reason to believe that Alaskan Malamutes sometimes cope greatly with smaller animals, including other canines; however, this has been difficult to document in detail beyond observational data. It is difficult to pinpoint why many Malamute owners have observed this behavior with smaller animals, though some might speculate this is due to the Malamute's uniquely divergent ancestry, at one point cross-breeding with wolves.[1] Due to their naturally evolved beginnings, the Malamute tends to have a heightened prey drive when compared to some other breeds of dog. So while Malamutes are, as a general rule, particularly amiable around people and can be taught to tolerate other pets, it is necessary to be mindful of them around smaller animals and children.

Malamutes are quite fond of people, a trait that makes them particularly sought-after family dogs. Malamutes are nimble around furniture and smaller items, making them ideal house dogs, provided they get plenty of time outdoors meeting their considerable exercise requirements.[2] If they are year-round outdoor dogs, letting them play in a baby pool filled with cold water in summer keeps them cool. In the winter, they love snow.

The majority of Malamutes are fairly quiet dogs, seldom barking like most other dog breeds. When a malamute does vocalize, more often than not they tend to "talk" by vocalizing a "woo woo" sound. They may howl like wolves or coyotes, and for the same reasons.

They should always be under leash control or fenced in. It is in their nature to run off.

AMERICAN BULLDOG

The American bulldog is a stocky and well built, strong-looking dog with powerful jaws. Its coat is short and generally smooth. The breed is a light to moderate shedder. Colors, while historically predominantly white, have grown in recent years to include any color pattern: including black, red, brown, fawn and all shades of brindle. The color conformation is quite varied, but blue or any degree of merle is undesirable. It is considered a fault or disqualification by most breed standards. Black pigmentation on the nose and eye rims is preferred, with only some pink being allowed. Eye color is usually brown. American bulldogs can be droolers. This varies and is more prevalent in those that are looser jowled or lipped. The Johnson is generally a larger, heavier dog with a shorter muzzle. Scott types often resemble a large, leggy Pit Bull. It is important to note that many modern American bulldogs are a combination of the two types. In general, American bulldogs weigh between 27 to 57 kg (60 to 130 lb) and are 52 to 70 cm (20 to 28 in) at the withers, but have been known to greatly exceed in that "out of standard", non working, stock. The Johnson type is often confused with the "white" Boxer due to the strong resemblance between the two breeds.
An American bulldog is typically a happy and friendly dog that is at ease with its family. They bond strongly with their master and family. This breed tolerates children and can do very well with them, provided they are socialized early and understand their limits. The more exposure to good training practices, other dogs and people, the more likely the success at being controlled both inside and outside of their environment. One way to help accomplish this goal can be done in the simplest of ways, by walking them regularly in a local park. There they can meet other people and dogs. While its genetics and breeding were to produce a working farm utility dog that could catch and hold large herbivores, kill vermin, and guard an owner's property, when properly introduced and socialized, this breed can become a great family pet. Some American bulldogs are very protective of owners, and have been known to become aggressive with other dogs.But overall they are great family pets.

Purebred/Blood American bulldogs are excellent tracking, working, guard and family dogs; generally require little/no professional training to execute, being true, some American bulldogs are not tolerant of unknown creatures or people on/near/approaching "their" property/area/vehicles and sometimes even not so familiar friends and family when owner isn't around. Assertiveness(charging-rushing) towards other dogs even when outside of territory/property is not uncommon. American bulldogs are known to be a very dominant breed, but should not be hostile on neutral territory, i.e no where near their home. American Bulldogs generally do not engage unless seriously provoked. Breed is also noted for having an extremely high pain tolerance.

Puppies have also been noted for being friendly & carefree (1–36 months), i.e no cares around strangers at home, friendliness towards all animals(except ones fleeing for dear life). Then maturing & developing into alert, protective, smart and all around companions.

This breed's high prey drive can sometimes make them unsuitable for homes that have cats and smaller pets, but the correct socialization at an early age (see above, temperament) will greatly increase the chances of them accepting these animals. Aggressiveness towards other strange dogs, especially those of the same sex is typical.

AMERICAN COCKER SPANIEL

The American Cocker Spaniel is a breed of sporting dog. It is a Spaniel type dog, being closely related to the English Cocker Spaniel with the two breeds having diverged during the 20th century due to differing breed standards in America and in the UK. In the United States, the breed is usually referred to as the Cocker Spaniel, while elsewhere in the world, it's called the American Cocker Spaniel in order to differentiate between it and it's English cousin. The word cocker is commonly held to stem from their use to hunt woodcock in England, while spaniel is thought to be derived from the dog type's origins in Spain.

The first Spaniel in America came across with the Mayflower in 1620, but it wasn't until 1878 when the first Cocker Spaniel was registered with the American Kennel Club (AKC), with a national breed club set up some three years later and the dog considered to be the father of the modern breed, Ch. Obo II, being born around this time. By the 1920s the English and American varieties of Cocker had become noticeably different and in 1946 the AKC recognised the English type as a separate breed but it wasn't until 1970 that The Kennel Club in the UK recognised the American Cocker Spaniel as being separate from the English type.

The American Cocker has been the most popular breed in the United States for 18 years spread across two reigns in the 1940s/50s and the 1980s. They have also won the best in show title at the Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show on four occasions, and have been linked to the President of the United States on several occasions, including Richard Nixon and Harry S. Truman.

The breed is the smallest of the sporting dogs recognised by the AKC, and it's distinctly shaped head makes it immediately recognisable. In addition, there are some marked differences between it and it's English relative. They are a happy breed with average working intelligence, although by being bred to a show standard they are no longer an ideal working dog. The breed suffers from a variety of wide ranging health ailments including heart problems and problems with their eyes and ears.

AMERICAN FOXHOUND

While standards call for the American Foxhound to be about 21-25 inches (530–640 mm) tall to the withers, and weigh anywhere between 65-75 pounds (29–34 kg), many of them are larger in structure (especially the show strains), with males standing 26-29 inches (660–740 mm) and females 25-28 inches (640–710 mm) and smaller in weight, typically between 40-65 pounds (20–29 kg). Some breeders have theorized that this is due to the considerably improved diet the dogs receive. For years it was traditional to feed Foxhounds on a diet of "dog bread", a variation on cornbread. The legs of a Foxhound are very long and straight-boned. The foxhound's chest is rather narrow. It has a long muzzle, and a large, domed skull. The dog is a Virginia Common pet.The ears are wide and low-set. The eyes are hazel or brown, and are large and wide-set. The coat is short and harsh. Overall, they are very similar to the Beagle, only standing higher and being larger. Their coats come in four colors: red, tri, black and tan, and blue.
The American Foxhound is sweet, kind, loyal, and very loving at a home. As with all hounds they need careful training, constant socialization, and owners who are willing to give them ample exercise: a bored foxhound will find ways to keep themselves entertained and can be very destructive, some examples of destruction include everything from scratching at doors to tearing apart objects including toilet paper, being very rambunctious and, being rather long, they have the ability to take things from counter-tops. If routine walks are not an option, access to a secure yard is a good alternative; however the best option would be constant access via a dog door and a secure yard.
American Foxhounds at the Atlanta Steeplechase

Intelligent creatures as they are, many foxhounds quickly learn to open gates or scale small fences to go wandering. While on the hunt the foxhound is a warrior, once a scent is picked up he or she will follow it neglecting any commands. Because their hunting instinct is strong they should never be trusted off-lead. Foxhounds are rarely street savvy and will follow a scent trail into the street where they could get hit by a car.

Foxhounds are easy to live with and thrive as members of a family; however, they are not ideal apartment dogs and shouldn't be left alone indoors for extended periods of time. They do however, get along very well with children, especially small children; although one must always keep an eye when children and animals are interacting as it is not beyond any animal to bite or claw when they feel they are threatened.

Foxhounds do not make good watchdogs; while more skittish hounds may howl when they see a newcomer, more often than not they will greet the newcomer affectionately hoping for treats or scratches behind the ears. This is due to centuries of breeding; any hound that growled or bared its teeth at its master would not be bred, or in some cases would be killed.

Most scent hounds are bred to give "voice". Foxhounds are not nuisance barkers but they do have loud, deep voices that carry a great distance. Although most people love the sound, many urban or suburban neighbors do not appreciate the deep barks or melodious howling of a foxhound. They have a special bark: a normal bark followed by a high-pitched howl.

They cannot be expected to act like retrievers because, though affectionate, they are independent by nature. Although a few foxhounds have been trained in obedience, most will not follow commands unless it suits them. Training a foxhound can be a trying experience, training a retired foxhound that grew up in a Fox Hunt can be even worse, as they can be stubborn.

AMERICAN STAFFORDSHIRE TERRIER

n.a.

ASIAN SHEPHERD DOG

Central Asians most likely originated in a geographical area between the Ural, Caspian Sea, Asia Minor, and the Northwest border of China.[3] Aboriginal Central Asians as well as mixes still can be found in its countries of origin, such as Kyrgyzstan, Tadzhikistan, Turkmenistan, Kazakhstan, Afghanistan, Uzbekistan and surrounding countries. [4]. Some serve their duties as livestock guardians, some protect their owners, and some are used for dog fighting, which is a national tradition in many countries of that region.

Russian biologists and scientists have studied the local dog population [5] since the 18th century. After the Communist revolution, the Soviet government focused on working dog breeds for the Red Army, and imported the best breed representatives to Russia as per military dogs' and guard dogs' requirements. Over the decades, this practice harmed the local population. As well, the introduction of new breeds to the region led to crossbreeding in some areas. At some point, in most areas purebred dogs were only left at herders, breed enthusiasts and farms, while crosses surfeited in access. [6] However, Central Asian Shepherd Dogs population is still stable in general, reproducing same true quality dogs praised for working abilities, regardless of country of origin. Trading bloodlines and purchasing unrelated breeding stock between Russia, other "former USSR republics" (such as Ukraine, Belarus etc ) and countries where CAO still at aboriginal stage, is a common practice nowadays.

This breed consists of numerous breed types. They differ in size, color, head types, hair types. As well, Central Asians tend to form a social group, consisting of different members bearing different duties, thus puppies with different working qualities are normally born in the same litter. These breed features, as well as different traditional names for the breed, give grounds for complications with breed standard. Most important, purebred Central Asians have unique breed characteristics.[7] Breed specific dog anatomy includes exclusive features, such as very noticeable extremely flexible joints, false ribs, specific head set, very strong neck with massive dewlap they can extend at no time into different directions. Special true and beyond expressive mimic and almost human eyes, revealing the inimitable intelligence finish the portrait.

By working qualities, modern Central Asians had been bred into different directions, depends on the demand for their abilities. Traditional dog fights had always been a national tradition in places of original habitat, but they had never been cruel and destructive as pitbull-type fights. All herders from the same area annually met together, and fought their strongest sheep guardian male dogs to pick the winner. It was about the dominance rather than destroying their own kind. Most dogs evaluated each other when met at the field and the weaker or more submissive dog left, taking the loss. Dogs seldom injured each other, mostly minor scratches within short period of time. Only true leaders actually had to determine, who is the strongest dog via real fight, but this still minor compare to their everyday labor duty, facing predators and venomous snakes every day.[8]

Modern commercial dog fights often differ from traditional as much as livestock guardian dogs differ from fighting dogs. There are different rules, and different breeds involved. Most Central Asians used for modern commercial fights come from fighting lines. Vast majority of breeders are aware of their dogs’ background, and will tell, if the dog comes from lines used for fighting, or not. And one can always expect high level of aggression towards other dogs from CAOs with dog fighting background. It is always important to distinguish weather the dogs display aggression only towards strange, unfriendly dogs entering their territory, while establish and maintaining usual social relationships with other animals on premises, or illegibly attack regardless weather the other dog is a member of same social group, or not. Promiscuity in aggression towards strangers and friends is highly atypical for the breed, as well as for other breeds of dogs.

Livestock guardians still in demand, but not nearly as much, as they used to be. These dogs differ in terms of being protective against human intruders, very territorial, safe with children, love and respect elderly people, protect all small animals from predators, and very gentle with family members. [9]

Personal protection, or working dogs originated from livestock guardian dogs, being selectively bred by Russian breed experts for working abilities. As a result, they excel in obedience, territory protection and personal protection, very intelligent, and make perfect house dogs.[10] They do not need any complicated training to learn basic house rules, and treat the owner with the same great respect, their ancestors treated the herder. These dogs were introduced to sheep breeding community worldwide with a great rate of success. Dogs must be able to work as a team, protection sheep against predators, thus excessively dog aggressive CAOs, as any other dogs, cannot be members of the pack, and will not pass this simple test revealing compliance of modern generation with breed origination purpose.

To conclude temperament differences description, Central Asian Shepherd dogs can come from working lines, fighting lines and livestock guardian lines, and behave accordingly, regardless of the country they come from. Simple pedigree research and conversation with the breeder will reveal what basic instincts one can expect from the dog. Central Asians from pure show lines still very rare, because most registries require working test prior to breeding.[11].

Selected for centuries for their abilities to destroy predators, praised for their power and stamina, Central Asians sometimes are called " Volkodav", "The Wolf Crusher" in Russian. It is very important to select only stable dogs for breeding purposes, and avoid starting protection training of dogs of this breed at early age.
The Central Asian Shepherd Dog is a protective dog who bonds first to its human caretaker and next with its perceived possessions. Bred to solve problems, it is independent minded, strong, brave and responsible. It is a large but agile dog, sometimes described as a cat in dog's clothing. With its strong guarding and territorial instincts, it is not a breed for the novice owner.

Sensitive and smart, the Central Asian Shepherd responds best to someone who can inspire while also providing strong leadership. Heavy-handed training will backfire with this breed, but respectful, thoughtful training will yield an undyingly devoted companion.

AUSTRALIAN SHEPHERD DOG

The Australian shepherd is a breed of herding dog that was developed on ranches in the Western United States. Despite its name, the breed, commonly known as an Aussie, did not originate in Australia.[2] They acquired their name because of association with Basque sheepherders who came to the United States from Spain.[3]

Australian shepherds rose gradually in popularity with the boom of western riding after World War I. They became known to the general public through rodeos, horse shows, and through Disney movies made for television.

For many years, Aussies have been valued by stockmen for their inherent versatility and trainability. While they continue to work as stockdogs and compete in herding trials, the breed has earned recognition in other roles due to their trainability and eagerness to please, and are highly regarded for their skills in obedience. Like all working breeds, the Aussie has considerable energy and drive, and usually needs a job to do. It often excels at dog sports such as dog agility, flyball, and frisbee. They are also highly successful search and rescue dogs, disaster dogs, detection dogs, guide, service, and therapy dogs. And, above all, they can be beloved family companions.
The breed's general appearance varies greatly independent from the particular line's emphasis. As with many working breeds that are also shown in the ring, there are differences of opinion among breeders over what makes an ideal Australian shepherd. In addition the breed can be split into two distinct lines - working and show dogs. Working dogs tend to have shorter coats (utility coat), and can have small, medium or heavy bone structures, while both are bred according to the breed standard the show lines tend to have longer, fuller coats (show coat), more white, and a heavier-boned structure.
The Australian shepherd is a medium sized breed of solid build. The ASCA standard calls for the Australian shepherd to stand between 18-23 inches at the withers, females being 18-21 inches and males measuring 20-23 inches, however, quality is not to be sacrificed in favor of size.[

AUSTRALIAN TERRIER

The Australian Terrier is a small dog with short legs, weighing around approx. 6.5 kg (14 lbs) and standing about 25 cms (10 ins.) at the withers, with a medium length shaggy harsh double coat that is not normally trimmed. Fur is shorter on the muzzle, lower legs, and feet, and there is a ruff around the neck. The coat colours are shades of blue or red with a lighter coloured topknot, and with markings on face, ears, body and legs of a colour described in the breed standard as "tan, never sandy". The tail was traditionally docked. As with most pet dog breeds, all proportions and aspects of the body and head as well as colours and markings are extensively described in the breed standard.
The Australian Terrier is descended from the rough coated type terriers brought from Great Britain to Australia in the early 19th century. The ancestral types of all of these breeds were kept to eradicate mice and rats. The Australian Terrier shares ancestors with the Cairn Terrier, Shorthaired Skye Terrier, and the Dandie Dinmont Terrier; Yorkshire Terriers and Irish Terriers were also crossed into the dog during the breed's development.[2]

Development of the breed began in Tasmania about 1820, and the dogs were at first called the Rough Coated Terrier. The breed was officially recognised with the founding of the first breed club in 1887, and the breed was recognised as the Australian Terrier in 1892.[3] The Australian Terrier was shown at a dog show for the first time in 1903 in Melbourne, and was also shown in Great Britain about the same time.[2] The Kennel Club (UK) recognised the breed in 1933. The American Kennel Club recognised the Australian Terrier in 1960, and the United Kennel Club (US) in 1969. It is now recognised by all of the major kennel clubs in the English speaking world, and also is listed by various minor kennel clubs and other clubs and registries.

AZAWAKH HOUND

Morphology is very similar to that of the Middle Eastern and North African sight hounds, all swift, high-bred coursing hounds, although there are several obvious differences. For example, a short, flat back combined with long legs place the hips higher than the withers. The Azawakh is almond eyed and thin. It moves with a distinctly feline gait and can be found in a variety of colors as well as varying degrees of refinement, though format is basically constant.

The standards call for a hound from 33 to 55 pounds (15 to 25 kg); its height is 24 to 29 inches (61 to 74 cm). The coat is very short and almost absent on the belly. Its bone structure shows clearly through the skin and musculature. Its muscles are "dry", meaning that they lie quite flat, unlike the Greyhound and Whippet. In this respect it is similar in type to the Saluki.

In Africa, Azawakh are found in a variety of colors such as red, blue fawn (that is, with a lilac cast), grizzle, and, rarely, blue and black. The Azawakh in its native land also comes with various white markings including Irish marked (white collar) and particolour (mostly white).[1] Because of this wide color variation in the native population, the American standard used by the AKC and UKC allows any color combination found in Africa. In the United States, the FCI standard is modified to have no color restrictions at a minimum and there is a strong sentiment that the FCI standard should be heavily edited or replaced.[2]

Colors permitted by the FCI breed standard are clear sand to dark fawn/brown, red and brindle (with or without a dark mask), with white bib, tail tip, and white on all feet (which can be tips of toes to high stockings). Currently, white stockings that go above the elbow joint are considered disqualifying features in France, as is a white collar or half collar (Irish marked).

The Azawakh’s light, supple, lissome gait is a notable breed characteristic, as is an upright double suspension gallop.
Unlike other sighthounds, the primary function of the Azawakh in its native land is that of protector. It develops an intense bond with his owner, yet can perform independently from its master. With those they accept, Azawakh are gentle and extremely affectionate. With strangers many are reserved and prefer not to be touched, but are not inherently aggressive. Although raised to protect livestock, they do not have innate aggression toward canine nor human unless they are threatened.

Azawakh have high energy and tremendous endurance. They are excellent training companions for runners and are nearly impervious to heat. They will happily run in weather over 100 degrees Fahrenheit that would kill a Greyhound. They often dig holes in the garden.

Many Azawakh dislike rain and cold weather.

Azawakh are pack oriented and form complex social hierarchies. They have tremendous memories and are able to recognize each other after long periods of separation. They can often be found sleeping on top of each other for warmth and companionship.

Bandog

Description
The word "Bandogge" is the generic name for any Bulldog Type Mastiff breed.  The Bandogge has a very prominent musculature and an angulation that gives the dog a very athletic and agile look. Most are black brindle but others colors include black, blue, red, and tawny.

Temperament


The Bandogge is an extremely intelligent dog. Confident and very docile. Like all mastiffs, they should have an owner who is capable of staying dominant over the dog. They are not usually recommended as a good choice for first time dog owners, because they need someone who truly understands canine instinct and how to properly communicate what it is you want from him. Although not bred as fighting dogs, if they are with a passive owner, who does not know how to communicate aggression is not acceptable, they may become dog aggressive. Some people, mainly on the East Coast, still use this dog as a fighting dog. Luckily, there are more folks breeding these dogs for protection than for combat. As a protection dog, they are as a whole excellent. They have a great deal of drive and are very tractable. The only temperament draw-back to protection work is their unwillingness to perform the "bark" portion of the "bark and hold". As they are borne of fighting extraction, most dogs from this lineage do not bark as a warning, this is typically a difficult task. The American Bandogge is a breed that loves attention and thrives on leadership. If you are not this dogs 100% pack leader and/or if you do not provide enough mental and physical exercise they will become very upset when left alone and will be hard to control. While they are happy to receive any attention and gladly accept whatever you give them, they absolutely need an owner who displays authority over them. They prefer to be with their owners and live to please and protect them. Loving their families and protecting their domain. Bandogge can get along with other animals if they are raised with them including kittens, cats, and other dogs, but can be aggressive with animals they haven't been socialized with. They will protect themselves and their families to the end. Confident and very obedient, they are excellent with children. Bandogge seem to have a sense of when to be gentle. They are excellent family members as well as an intruder's worst nightmare.  They are said to be "The Silent Peacekeepers".  This breed may drool and slobber.

Height, Weight
Weight: Males 100 -140 pounds (45-63 kg.)
Weight: Females about 85 pounds (38 kg.) and up.
Height Males 25-29 inches (63-73 cm.) Females tend to be smaller.

Health Problems
-

Living Conditions
Bandogs will do okay in an apartment if it is sufficiently exercised. They are relatively inactive indoors and a small yard will do. This breed likes to be with it owner and would not enjoy life in a kennel.

Exercise
American Bandogge need a great deal of exercise.

Life Expectancy
About 10 years.

Grooming
These giant, short-haired dogs are easy to groom. Remove loose, dead hair with a rubber brush. This breed is an average shedder.

Origin
American Bandogges are not purebred dogs, in the way we know the word "purebred". Their ancestry is of American Pit Bull Terrier and Neapolitan Mastiff. There are some kennels who do produce Bandogs successfully in many generations, without adding blood from other breeds, and have gained a homogeneous type. In the late 1960's a veterinarian by the name of Swinford began a breeding program which was ultimately to produce the greatest of all protection dogs. Though breeders of Bandogges today disagree on just what breeds went into Swinford's original breeding scheme, the general compromise is that it was 50 % American Pit Bull Terrier and 50 % very large molosser. The most common method employed to produce a Bandogge is to cross a good game male American Pit Bull Terrier with a large and strong Neapolitan Mastiff female. Another somewhat common method used in breeding the Bandogges is to cross an English Mastiff with an American Pit Bull Terrier. The American Canine Hybrid Club recognizes the American Bulldog crossed with a Mastiff as an American Bandogge. The Designer Dogs Kennel Club recognizes the American Bulldog crossed with the Mastiff as the American Masti-Bull. Also a similar cross is the Pit Bull Terrier and the Bullmastiff cross, however this cross is not called Bandogges but rather a Pit Bullmastiff. The name Bandog was used in the old England by the Saxons and comes from the word Banda,-a Saxon word for chain. It was common practice to tie the dog by day, and release him at night to enable him to carry out his guard duties.

BARBET

The Barbet is a rare breed. Most Barbet, especially those shown in conformation shows, are entirely black, black and white, or brown. It is common to see white chest spots and white paws or legs on black or brown coated dogs. Parti, Creme, and Pied variations are being born but in very limited numbers.
The breed stands 58 to 65 cms (20.5-25.5 inches) for the males in height, 52 to 61 for the females with a tolerance of 1 cm +/- and weighs 17 to 28 kg (35-60 pounds). The Barbet is a prototypic water dog, with a long, woolly, and curly coat. Their coats grow long and must be groomed regularly, otherwise the coat can become matted and the barbet may lose small tufts of hair like tumbleweeds.

The accepted colours of the breed are solid black, brown, fawn, grey, pale fawn, white, or more or less pied. All shades of red-fawn and pale fawn are permitted. The shade should, preferably, be the same as the colour of the body. Grey and white are extremely rare; mixed colours (except with white) are considered as a fault. The most common colors are black or brown with white markings. The birth figures worldwide for 2007 are 176. All born were black or brown some with white markings on the chest, chin, and legs.
The Barbet’s personality is described as companionable, joyful, goofy, obedient, and intelligent. They are quick to learn and need lifelong obedience training. They are a great with children, families, and the elderly. Barbet will bond with their family and prefer to be in the same room with the family at all times. They need exercise daily to keep the dog in a healthy state of mind and body.

They are capable retrievers for waterfowl hunting. In France the Barbet can take the Test d`Apptitude Naturelle (T.A.N.) a basic water retrieving test and has recently been permitted to participate in the BCE. (Brevet de Chasse a l'Eau) which is a general hunting test involving field and water trials. In Germany the Barbet takes part in field trials.

BASENJI

The Basenji is a breed of hunting dog that was bred from stock originating in central Africa. Most of the major kennel clubs in the English-speaking world place the breed in the Hound Group; more specifically, it may be classified as belonging to the sighthound type. The Fédération Cynologique Internationale places the breed in Group 5, Spitz and Primitive types, and the United Kennel Club (US) places the breed in the Sighthound & Pariah Group.

The Basenji produces an unusual yodel-like sound commonly called a "barroo", due to its unusually shaped larynx.[1] This trait also gives the Basenji the nickname "Barkless Dog."

Basenjis share many unique traits with Pariah dog types. Basenjis, like dingos and some other breeds of dog, come into estrus only once annually, as compared to other dog breeds which may have two or more breeding seasons every year. Both dingos and Basenjis lack a distinctive odor, and are prone to howls, yodels, and other undulated vocalizations over the characteristic bark of modern dog breeds. One theory holds that the latter trait is the result of the selective killing of barkier dogs in the traditional Central African context because barking could lead enemies to humans' forest encampments. While dogs that resemble the basenji in some respects are commonplace over much of Africa, the breed's original foundation stock came from the old growth forest regions of the Congo Basin, where its structure and type were fixed by adaptation to its habitat, as well as use (primarily net hunting in extremely dense old-growth forest vegetation).
Basenji are small, elegant-looking, short-haired dogs with erect ears, a tightly curled tail, and a graceful neck. Some people consider their appearance similar to that of a miniature deer. A basenji's forehead is wrinkled, especially when the animal is young or extremely old. Basenji eyes are typically almond shaped, which gives the dog the appearance of squinting seriously.

Dogs typically weigh 24 pounds (11 kg) and stand 16 inches (40.6 cm) at the withers. They are typically a square breed, which means that they are as long as they are tall. The basenji is an athletic dog and is deceptively powerful for its size. They have a graceful, confident gait like a trotting horse, and skim the ground in a double-suspension gallop, with their characteristic curled tail straightened out for greater balance, when running flat-out at their top speed.

The basenji is recognized in the following standard colorations: red, black, tricolor (black with tan in the traditional pattern), and brindle (black stripes on a background of red), all with white, by the FCI, KC, AKC, and UKC. There are additional variations, such as the "trindle", which is a tricolor with brindle points, and several other colorations exist in the Congo such as liver, shaded reds and sables, and "capped" tricolors (creeping tan).
The Basenji is alert, affectionate, energetic, curious and reserved with strangers. The Basenji is somewhat aloof, but can also form strong bonds with people and can become emotionally attached to a single human. Basenjis may not get along with non-canine pets. It is commonly patient, but does best with older considerate handlers. Basenjis dislike wet weather, like to climb, can easily get over chain wire fences, and are very clever at getting their own way. The Basenji has the unique properties of not barking (it makes a low, liquid ululation instead) and cleaning itself like a cat. It can be described as speedy, frisky, tireless at play, and teasing the owner into play. Most Basenji problems usually involve a mismatch between owner and pet. Basenjis often stand on their hind legs, somewhat like a meerkat, by themselves or leaning on something; this behavior is often observed when the dog is curious about something. Basenjis reveal their animal-of-prey nature by chasing after fast moving objects that cross their paths.
The basenji is arguably one of the most ancient dog breeds. Originating on the continent of Africa[citation needed], basenji-like dogs have lived with humans for thousands of years. Dogs resembling modern Basenjis can be seen on stelae in the tombs of Egyptian pharaohs, sitting at the feet of their masters, looking just as they do today, with pricked ears and tightly curled tails. Dogs of this type were originally kept for hunting small game by coursing.

Europeans first described the type of dog from which the basenji breed was derived in the Congo in 1895. These local dogs, which Europeans identified as a unique breed and called "basenji" were prized by locals for their intelligence, courage, speed, and silence. However an article published called The Intelligence of Dogs by Stanley Coren, Ph.D. questions this. It ranks the breed at #78 out of 79 which is the second to lowest rank in intelligence.

Basenjis were assistants to the hunt, chasing wild game into nets for their masters. The Azande and Mangbetu people from the northeastern Congo region describe basenjis, in the local Lingala language, as mbwá na basɛ́nzi. Translated, this means "dogs of the savages", or "dogs of the villagers". In the Congo, the basenji is also known as "dog of the bush." The dogs are also known to the Azande of southern Sudan as Ango Angari. The word basɛ́nzi itself is the plural form of mosɛ́nzi. In Swahili, another Bantu language, from East Africa, mbwa shenzi translates to “wild dog”. Another local name is m’bwa m’kube m’bwa wamwitu, or “jumping up and down dog”,[dubious – discuss] a reference to their tendency to jump straight up to spot their quarry.

Several attempts were made to bring the breed to England, but the earliest imports succumbed to disease. In 1923, for example, Lady Helen Nutting brought six basenjis with her from Sudan, but all six died from distemper shots they received in quarantine. It was not until the 1930s that foundation stock was successfully established in England, and then to the United States by animal importer Henry Trefflich. So it is that nearly all the basenjis in the Western world are descended from these few original imports. The breed was officially accepted into the AKC in 1943. In 1990, the AKC stud book was reopened to fourteen new imports at the request of the Basenji Club of America. The stud book was reopened again to selected imported dogs from January 1, 2009 to December 31, 2013. An American led expedition collected breeding stock in villages in the Basankusu area of the Democratic Republic of Congo, in 2010. Basenjis are also registered with the UKC.

Although in the past it was speculated that Basenjis were somehow descended from jackals, modern genetic testing shows that Basenjis are related to all other dogs and are descended from the wolf, Canis lupus. However, further study is needed to determine whether they belong to the subspecies Canis lupus familiaris, as is the case with most dogs, or rather into the taxon Canis lupus dingo, which includes such the New Guinea Singing Dog, the Telomian, the Australian Dingo and Thai Ridgeback, Canis lupus dingo.

BASSET HOUND

Description


The Basset Hound is a short, relatively heavy dog. The head is large and well proportioned with a rounded skull. The muzzle is deep and heavy with the size being greater than the width at the brow. The brown eyes have a soft, sad look to them and are slightly sunken with a prominent haw. The darkly pigmented lips have loose hanging flews and the dewlap is very pronounced. The skin hangs loose like elastic and falls in folds on the head. The velvety ears are set low and extremely long hanging towards the ground. The large teeth meet in either a scissors or even bite. The chest is very deep extending in front of the front legs. The dogs hindquarters are very full and round. The paws are big. The dewclaws may be removed. The coat is dense, short, hard and shiny. There are no rules concerning color, but it is usually black, tan, white, red, white with chestnut or with sand-colored markings.

Temperament
The Basset Hound is sweet, gentle, devoted, peaceful and naturally well-behaved. They fit into family life well. Their temperament should always be friendly, and never vicious, moody or harsh, and would only become so if the owners led the dog to believe he was pack leader over humans. They are mild but not timid; very affectionate with its master and friendly with children. It can be a bit stubborn with meek owners and need a firm, confident, and consistent owner who displays natural authority over the dog. Dogs need to know the rules of the house and have the humans stick to them. Bassets like to do tricks for food. It has a deep musical bark. Housebreaking is difficult, but they do well with positive reinforcement and patient, gentle training. With proper training, they are obedient, but when they pick up an interesting smell, it's sometimes hard to get their attention, as they like to follow their noses and may not even hear you calling them back. Only allow your Basset off lead in safe areas.

Height, Weight
Height: Dogs 12-15 inches (30-38cm) Bitches 11-14 inches (28-36cm)
Weight: Dogs 50-65 pounds (23-29kg) Bitches 45-60 pounds (20-27kg)

Health Problems
Do not overfeed these dogs because extra weight places too great a load on the legs and spine. A problem area is possible lameness and eventual paralysis because of short legs and a heavy, long body. As they are prone to bloat, it is also wise to feed them two or three small meals a day instead of one big large meal. If they do eat a large meal keep an eye on them for several hours for any signs of bloat.

Living Conditions
The Basset hound will do okay in an apartment. They are very inactive indoors but outdoors they will run for hours in play if given the chance. They will do okay without a yard, but should be given plenty of opportunities to run and play to keep it healthy and trim.

Exercise
To keep the Basset Hound healthy, it should be given plenty of exercise, including a long daily walk to keep the dog mentally stable, but discourage it from jumping and stressing the front legs. This breed will run and play by the hour when given the chance. Because of their keen noses they tend to roam when they pick up a scent. Take care when off lead that the dog is in a safe area. When they pick up a trail they may not even hear you calling them back as their complete focus will be on finding the critter at the other end.

Life Expectancy
About 10-12 years

Litter Size
Average of 8 puppies - large litters are common, known to have 15 or more puppies in one litter
Grooming
The smooth, short-haired coat is easy to groom. Comb and brush with a firm bristle brush, and shampoo only when necessary. Wipe under the ears every week and trim toenails regularly. This breed is a constant shedder.
Origin


The Basset Hound is an old breed which is a direct descended of the Bloodhound and has a nose that is almost as outstanding. Some sources suggest the Basset Hound may have originated from genetic dwarf dogs which were born in litters of different types of hunting hounds. The name "Basset Hound" comes from the French word "bas" meaning low. The Basset Hounds long ears have been poetically described by Shakespeare as: "Ears which sweep away the morning dew." The breed was first presented at a Paris dog show in 1863 which began the dog's popularity. Their popularity spread to England and feuds soon arose between those who wanted the dog to be more of a show dog, keeping them more as a companion dog and those who wanted to keep it as a hunting dog. The breed spread to America where breeders started developing a dog which they felt covered both hunting and companion / show traits. The breed was recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1885. Able to hunt in both packs or alone, the dog is good at hunting in the den and in the open. They are used to hunt fox, hare, opossum, and pheasant. While the dogs reflexes are slow, it has an excellent sense of smell. The fact that they are relatively slow on their feet means they can be more convenient for hunters who are on foot. They are also less likely to scare game out of reach. It is said that George Washington owned Basset Hounds which were given to him by Lafayette after the American Revolution.

BEAGLE

The Beagle is a breed of small to medium-sized dog. A member of the Hound Group, it is similar in appearance to the Foxhound but smaller, with shorter legs and longer, softer ears. Beagles are scent hounds, developed primarily for tracking hare, rabbit, and other game. They have a keen sense of smell and tracking instinct that sees them employed as detection dogs for prohibited agricultural imports and foodstuffs in quarantine around the world. Beagles are intelligent, and are popular as pets because of their size, even temper, and lack of inherited health problems. These characteristics also make them the dog of choice for animal testing.

Although beagle-type dogs have existed for over 2,000 years, the modern breed was developed in Great Britain around the 1830s from several breeds, including the Talbot Hound, the North Country Beagle, the Southern Hound, and possibly the Harrier.

Beagles have been depicted in popular culture since Elizabethan times in literature and paintings, and more recently in film, television and comic books. Snoopy of the comic strip Peanuts has been promoted as "the world's most famous beagle".
Dogs of similar size and purpose to the modern Beagle can be traced in Ancient Greece back to around the 5th century BC. Xenophon, born around 433 BC, in his Treatise on Hunting or Cynegeticus refers to a hound that hunted hares by scent and was followed on foot. Small hounds are mentioned in the Forest Laws of Canute which exempted them from the ordinance which commanded that all dogs capable of running down a stag should have one foot mutilated. If genuine, these laws would confirm that beagle-type dogs were present in England before 1016, but it is likely the laws were written in the Middle Ages to give a sense of antiquity and tradition to Forest Law.
The Southern Hound is thought to be an ancestor of the Beagle

In the 11th century, William the Conqueror brought the Talbot hound to Britain. The Talbot was a predominantly white, slow, deep-throated, scent hound derived from the St. Hubert Hound which had been developed in the 8th century. At some point the English Talbots were crossed with Greyhounds to give them an extra turn of speed. Long extinct, the Talbot strain probably gave rise to the Southern Hound which, in turn, is thought to be an ancestor of the modern day Beagle.

From medieval times, beagle was used as a generic description for the smaller hounds, though these dogs differed considerably from the modern breed. Miniature breeds of beagle-type dogs were known from the times of Edward II and Henry VII, who both had packs of Glove Beagles, so named since they were small enough to fit on a glove, and Queen Elizabeth I kept a breed known as a Pocket Beagle, which stood 8 to 9 inches (20 to 23 cm) at the shoulder. Small enough to fit in a "pocket" or saddlebag, they rode along on the hunt. The larger hounds would run the prey to ground, then the hunters would release the small dogs to continue the chase through underbrush. Elizabeth I referred to the dogs as her singing beagles and often entertained guests at her royal table by letting her Pocket Beagles cavort amid their plates and cups. 19th-century sources refer to these breeds interchangeably and it is possible that the two names refer to the same small variety. In George Jesse's Researches into the History of the British Dog from 1866, the early 17th century poet and writer Gervase Markham is quoted referring to the Beagle as small enough to sit on a man's hand and to the:

   little small mitten-beagle, which may be companion for a ladies kirtle, and in the field will run as cunningly as any hound whatere, only their musick is very small like reeds.

Standards for the Pocket Beagle were drawn up as late as 1901; these genetic lines are now extinct, although modern breeders have attempted to recreate the variety.
The general appearance of the Beagle resembles a Foxhound in miniature, but the head is broader and the muzzle shorter, the expression completely different and the legs shorter in proportion to the body.[27] This is because beagles were trained to use their sense of smell often, and they would bend down a lot. They are generally between 13 and 16 inches (33 and 41 cm) high at the withers and weigh between 18 and 35 lb (8.2 and 16 kg), with females being slightly smaller than males on average.

They have a smooth, somewhat domed skull with a medium-length, square-cut muzzle and a black (or occasionally liver), gumdrop nose. The jaw is strong and the teeth scissor together with the upper teeth fitting perfectly over the lower teeth and both sets aligned square to the jaw. The eyes are large, hazel or brown, with a mild hound-like pleading look. The large ears are long, soft and low-set, turning towards the cheeks slightly and rounded at the tips. Beagles have a strong, medium-length neck (which is long enough for them to easily bend to the ground to pick up a scent), with little folding in the skin but some evidence of a dewlap; a broad chest narrowing to a tapered abdomen and waist and a short, slightly curved tail (known as the "stern") tipped with white. The white tip, known as the "flag" has been selectively bred for, as it allows the dog to be easily seen when its head is down following a scent. The tail does not curl over the back, but is held upright when the dog is active. The Beagle has a muscular body and a medium-length, smooth, hard coat. The front legs are straight and carried under the body while the rear legs are muscular and well bent at the stifles.
Beagles appear in a range of colours. Although the tricolour (white with large black areas and light brown shading) is the most common, Beagles can occur in any hound colour.

Tricoloured dogs occur in a number of shades, from the "Classic Tri" with a jet black saddle (also known as "Blackback"), to the "Dark Tri" (where faint brown markings are intermingled with more prominent black markings), to the "Faded Tri" (where faint black markings are intermingled with more prominent brown markings). Some tricoloured dogs have a broken pattern, sometimes referred to as pied. These dogs have mostly white coats with patches of black and brown hair. Tricolour Beagles are almost always born black and white. The white areas are typically set by eight weeks, but the black areas may fade to brown as the puppy matures. (The brown may take between one and two years to fully develop.) Some Beagles gradually change colour during their lives, and may lose their black markings entirely.

Two-colour varieties always have a white base colour with areas of the second colour. Tan and white is the most common two-colour variety, but there is a wide range of other colours including lemon, a very light tan; red, a reddish, almost orange, brown; and liver, a darker brown, and black. Liver is not common and is not permitted in some standards; it tends to occur with yellow eyes. Ticked or mottled varieties may be either white or black with different coloured flecks (ticking), such as the blue-mottled or bluetick Beagle, which has spots that appear to be a midnight-blue colour, similar to the colouring of the Bluetick Coonhound. Some tricolour Beagles also have ticking of various colours in their white areas.

BEARDED COLLIE

The Bearded Collie ranks 104 out of 155 breeds in popularity in the United States, according to the American Kennel Club's yearly publishing of breed rankings.[1] A Bearded Collie is best obtained from a reputable dog breeder or a dog rescue[citation needed]. Bearded Collies make excellent pets for those who are willing to accommodate their high energy level and grooming requirements. Weekly brushing is mandatory for keeping their long hair mat-free. Some Bearded Collie owners opt to keep their pets in a "puppy cut" haircut, which does reduce the need for brushing, but does not eliminate it. Bearded Collies are a very high energy breed, originally bred to work in the Scottish Highlands herding sheep. Beardies also excel at dog agility trials. A loyal and family friendly canine, the beardie can add years of pet ownership enjoyment to the home. They have keen problem solving abilities, and are a source of amusement to watch. Females are often more outgoing and headstrong than male beardies. When being trained, males are more likely to follow your instructions, whereas females do not like to be told what to do as much. Females often become the dominant dog if there is a boy and a girl beardie in the household. Regardless of the dog's sex, beardies are high energy. One of the most common problems for new beardie owners is the breed's high ages of maturity, so that standard puppy issues last longer and beardies frequently fail "puppy school" if entered at the same age as other breeds.

Adopting: Adopting a Beardie should be done through authorised breeders. (6) Parents of pup should have pedigree papers. There are Beardie rescue associations such as Beardie Collie Rescue and 'Rescue Me'. These organisations attempt to place unwanted puppies and dogs into appropriate and loving homes.
The Bearded Collie was used to herd both sheep and cattle. As such it is essentially a working dog, at one time bred to be hardy and reliable, able to stand up to the harshest conditions, and the toughest sheep. The "working bearded collie" became less common in the last few decades and might have died out, but thanks to the efforts of relatively few shepherds such as Tom Muirhead and Peter Wood and breeders like Brian Plummer the "working beardie" has survived and is becoming more popular. It has been exported to Australia and the United States, and finds favour among those looking for an independent and intelligent sheep dog. The purpose of the Working Bearded Collie Society is to preserve the working abilities of the non-registered working dogs from 'bearded' ancestors. The web site Shepherds with beardies contains a lot of valuable information on the few remaining working beardies.

The KC registered bearded collie has fallen into disrepute with the shepherds of Wales and Scotland (and elsewhere), because of the show breeding community's lack of attention to 'hardy and reliable', and because of the tendency of show bred lines to develop excessive coats. However, in some countries, notably Sweden and the United States, herding programmes have been developed for the breed. The breed clubs in those countries are these days actively encouraging breeders to pay close attention to non-exterior qualities.

It's possible the beardie gained its epithet of the 'bouncing beardie' because dogs would work in thick undergrowth on the hill, and would bounce to catch sight of the sheep, or because of the characteristic way the beardie faces a stubborn ewe, barking and bouncing on the forelegs. However that may be, the typical bearded collie is an enthusiastic herding dog that needs structure and fostering, and that moves stock using both body, bark and bounce, should that be required. Very few beardies show "eye" when working, most are quite upright.

Herding instincts and trainability can be measured at noncompetitive herding tests. Beardies exhibiting basic herding instincts can be trained to compete in herding trials.[

BELGIAN SHEPERD DOG

The Belgian Shepherd Dog (also known as the Belgian Sheepdog or Chien de Berger Belge) is a breed of medium-to-large-sized dog. It is a member of the Herding Group. It originated in Belgium and is similar to other sheep herding dogs from that region, including the Dutch Shepherd Dog, the German Shepherd Dog, the Briard and others. Four types have been identified by various registries as separate breeds or varieties: Groenendael, Laekenois, Tervuren, and Malinois. All are registered as a herding dog, more specifically a sheep dog.
Breed creation and recognition

In the late 1800s a group of concerned dog fanciers under the guidance of Prof. A. Reul of the Cureghem Veterinary Medical School gathered foundation stock from the areas around Tervuren, Groenendael, Malines, and Laeken in Belgium. Official breed creation occurred around 1891, when the Club du Chien de Berger Belge (Belgian Shepherd Dog Club) was formed in Brussels. The first breed standard was written in 1892, but official recognition did not happen until 1901, when the Royal Saint-Hubert Society Stud Book began registering Belgian Shepherd Dogs.[1]

By 1910, fanciers managed to eliminate the most glaring faults and standardize type and temperament. There has been continued debate about acceptable colors and coat types. Structure, temperament and working ability have never been debated in regards to the standard.
Appearance
The Laekenois variant
[edit] Structure

The Belgian Shepherd Dog is a medium-to-large size dog. All varieties share a similar underlying musculoskeletal structure, closely resembling the popular German Shepherd breed save for the hindlegs. All variants also share a close cranial features, having a domed forehead, a long, square-cut muzzle and black noses with their ears pointed and fully erect. One of the identifying characteristics of the breed is that it is square, with its height from the ground to top of the withers being equal to its length.
[edit] Groenendael

The Groenendael is characterized by a long double coat in solid black. Fanciers consider that white marking are to be confined to a small patch on the chest (not to extend to the neck) and white toes. Coat texture is stiff, tight, and thick, developed to withstand the elements.
[edit] Tervuren

Like all Belgian Shepherds, the Tervuren is a medium-sized, square-proportioned dog in the sheepdog family. Males stand between 24 and 26 inches, and weigh approximately 65 pounds. Females are finer and smaller. It is recognized by its thick double coat, generally mahogany with varying degrees of black overlay (fanciers consider that completely missing overlay on males is a serious fault), including a black mask. A small patch of white on the chest is permissible by club standards, as well as white tips on toes. The Tervuren may also be sable or grey, but this may be penalised in the show ring in some countries according to the standard of the registering body.
[edit] Temperament

Belgian Shepherd Dogs are described as highly intelligent, alert, sensitive to everything going on around them and form very strong relationship bonds. They are said to be loyal, intelligent, fun, highly trainable and well suited to family life. They should receive plenty of socializing as puppies and will benefit from regular activity and close interaction with people throughout their lifespan. Their herding heritage gives them a comparatively high energy level, and mental as well as physical exercise is necessary to keep a Belgian happy and healthy.

Belgian Shepherds do well in sports such as obedience training and dog agility. They are used as assistance and search and rescue dogs, as well as police, military and narcotics dogs.
[edit] Health
The Tervuren variety

There have been few health surveys of the individual Belgian Shepherd varieties.[6] The UK Kennel Club conducted a 2004 health survey of all Belgian Shepherd varieties combined.[7] The Belgian Sheepdog (=Groenendael) Club of America Health Committee has a health registry questionnaire,[8] but it is not clear whether or when results will be reported. The American Belgian Tervuren Club conducted health surveys in 1998[9] and 2003.[10] Only the 2003 report included longevity information.
10 year old Tervuren resting on grass
[edit] Mortality
The Malinois variant

Median longevity of Belgian Shepherds (all varieties combined) in the 2004 UK survey, was 12.5 years, which is on the high side, both for purebred dogs in general and for breeds similar in size. The longest-lived of 113 deceased Belgians in the UK survey was 18.2 years. Leading causes of death were cancer (23%), cerebral vascular, i.e., stroke (13%), and old age (13%).

Average longevity of Belgian Tervurens in the 2003 American Belgian Tervuren Club survey was lower, at 10.6 years, than in the UK survey. The difference in surveys does not necessarily mean Belgian Tervurens live shorter lives than other varieties of Belgian Shepherds. Breed longevities in USA/Canada surveys are usually shorter than those in UK surveys.[12] Leading causes of death in the 2003 American Belgian Tervuren Club survey were cancer (35%), old age (23%), and organ failure (heart, kidney, liver) (13%).
[edit] Morbidity

Belgian Shepherds are afflicted with the most common dog health issues (reproductive, musculoskeletal, and dermatological) at rates similar to breeds in general. They differ most notably from other breeds in the high incidence of seizures and/or epilepsy. In the UK survey of Belgian Shepherds and both the 1998 and 2003 ABTC survey of Belgian Tervurens, about nine per cent of dogs had seizures or epilepsy. Other studies have reported rates of epilepsy in Belgian Tervurens as high as seventeen per cent, or about one in six dogs. For comparison, the incidence of epilepsy/seizures in the general dog population is estimated at between 0.5 per cent and 5.7 per cent. See Epilepsy in animals for more information on symptoms and treatments.

BERNER SENNENHUND

ORIGIN : Switzerland.

DATE OF PUBLICATION OF THE ORIGINAL VALID STANDARD : 25.03.2003.

UTILIZATION : Originally used as a guard-, draught-and cattle dog on farms in the Canton Bern, today also family dog and versatile working dog.

CLASSIFICATION F.C.I. :

Group 2  - Pinscher and Schnauzer type - Molossoid breeds - Swiss Mountain and Cattle-Dogs and other breeds.

Section 3 Swiss Cattle Dogs.

BRIEF HISTORICAL SUMMARY : The Bernese Mountain Dog is a farm dog of ancestral origin which was used as a guard and draught dog and for driving cattle in the prealpine regions and in the midland areas around Bern.  Originally he was named “Dürrbächler” according to the name of the hamlet and of the inn of Dürrbach, near Riggisberg in the Canton Bern where these long-haired tricoloured farm dogs were especially numerous.  In 1902, 1904 and 1907 specimen of this breed had already been exhibited at dog shows, and in 1907 some breeders of the region of Burgdorf decided to promote the pure breeding of these dogs by founding the “Schweizerischer Dürrbach-Klub”, and fixing the characteristic traits of the breed.  In 1910, at a show in Burgdorf where many farmers of that region brought their Dürrbächler dogs to, already 107 specimen were shown.  From that day onward this dog, renamed “Bernese Mountain Dog” following the example of the other breeds of Swiss Mountain Dogs, became rapidly appreciated all over Switzerland and in the neighbouring parts of Germany.  Today the Bernese Mountain Dog is well known and appreciated all over the world as a family dog thanks to its striking tricoloured coat and its great adaptability.

GENERAL APPEARANCE: Longhaired, tricoloured, strong and agile working dog, of above medium size, with sturdily built limbs; harmonious and well balanced.

IMPORTANT PROPORTIONS:

   * Height at withers: length of body (measured from the point of the shoulder to the point of the buttock) = 9 : 10, rather compact than elongated.
   * Ideal relation of height at withers: depth of chest = 2 : 1.

BEHAVIOUR/TEMPERAMENT: Self-confident, attentive, vigilant, fearless in every day situations; good-natured and devoted to his own people, self-assured and placid towards strangers; of medium temperament, docile.

HEAD: Strong.  In size balanced to general appearance, not too massive.

FACIAL REGION:

Nose: Black.

Muzzle: Strong, of medium length; nasal bridge straight.

Lips: Close fitting; black.

Jaws/Teeth: Strong, complete scissor bite (molars 3 (M3) are not taken into consideration). Pincer bite accepted.

Eyes:  Dark brown, almond-shaped, with close fitting eyelids.  Neither too deep-set nor prominent.

Ears : Medium-sized, set high, triangular in shape, slightly rounded at the tips, in repose hanging flat and close to the head.  When alert, the rear part of the set-on is raised while the front edge of the ear remains close to the head.

NECK : Strong, muscular, of medium length.

BODY :

Topline : From the neck running slightly downwards to the withers in a harmonious line, then running on straight and level.

Back : Firm, straight and level.

Loins : Broad and strong; seen from above slightly less broad than the chest.

Croup : Smoothly rounded.

Chest : Broad and deep, reaching to the elbows; forechest distinctly developed; ribcage of wide-oval section extending as well back as possible.

Underline/belly : Slightly rising from chest to hindquarters.

TAIL : Bushy, reaching at least to the hocks; hanging straight down when at rest; carried level with back or slightly above when moving.

LIMBS : Strong bones.

FOREQUARTERS : Forelegs seen from the front straight and parallel, standing rather wide apart.

Shoulders : Shoulder blade long, strong and well laid back, forming a not too obtuse angle with the upper arm, well attached to the chest, well muscled.

Upper arm : Long, set oblique.

Elbows : Close fitting; neither turned in nor out.

Forearm : Strong, straight.

Pastern : Seen from the side almost upright, firm; seen from the front in straight line with the forearm.

Forefeet : Short, roundish; with well-knit, well-arched toes.  Turned neither in nor out.

HINDQUARTERS : Seen from the rear straight and parallel, not too close.

Upper thigh : Long, broad, strong and well muscled.

Stifle : Distinctly well bent.

KLEOPATRA & KAUBOJUS HERUS Poseidonas (LKD)

Lower thigh : Long and oblique.

Hock joint : Strong, well angulated.

Metatarsus : Set almost vertically.  Dewclaws to be removed (except in those countries where it is prohibited by law).

Hind feet : Slightly less arched than forefeet, turned neither in nor out.

GAIT/MOVEMENT  : Sound and balanced movement in all gaits covering a lot of ground; free stride reaching well out in front, with good drive from behind; at the trot, coming and going, legs moving forward in a straight line.

COAT

HAIR : Long, shining, straight or slightly wavy.

COLOUR : Jet black main colour with rich tan markings on the cheeks, above the eyes, on all four legs and on the chest, and with white markings as follows :

   * Clean white symmetrical markings on the head : blaze extending towards the nose on both sides to a muzzle band; the blaze should not reach the tan markings above the eyes, and the white muzzle band should not extend beyond the corners of the mouth.
   * Moderately broad, unbroken white marking on throat and chest.
   * Desirable : white feet, white tip of tail.
   * Tolerated : small white patch on nape of neck, small white anal patch.

SIZE  :

Height at withers : for dogs:  64-70 cm (ideal size: 66-68 cm.),

                               for bitches: 58-66 cm (ideal size:   60-63 cm.).

FAULTS : Any departure from the foregoing points should be considered a fault and the seriousness with which the fault should be regarded should be in exact proportion to its degree.

   * Unsure behaviour.
   * Irregular set of the incisors provided that the bite remains correct.
   * Absence of any other theeth than 2 PM1 (premolars 1); the M3 (molars 3) are not taken into consideration.
   * Coat :

- Distinctly curly coat.

- Faults of colour and markings :

-          Absence of white on head.

-          Blaze too large and/or muzzle band reaching noticeably beyond the corners of the mouth.

-          White collar.

-          White anal patch (maximum size 6 cm).

-          White markings on forelegs reaching distinctly beyond half-way of pasterns (“boots”).

-          Disturbingly asymmetrical white markings on head and/or chest.

-          Black ticks and stripes within the white on the chest.

-          Black coat with a touch of brown or red.

ELIMINATING FAULTS :

   * Aggressive, anxious or distinctly shy.
   * Split nose.
   * Undershot or overshot mouth, wry mouth.
   * One or two blue eyes (wall eye).
   * Kinky tail, ring tail.
   * Short coat, double coat (Stockhaar).
   * Other than tricoloured coat.
   * Other main colour than black.

N.B. : Male animals should have two apparently normal testicles fully descended into the scrotum.

BICHON FRISE

TRANSLATION : Mrs. Peggy Davis, brought up to date by Dr. J.-M. Paschoud.

ORIGIN : France / Belgium.

DATE OF PUBLICATION OF THE ORIGINAL VALID STANDARD : 10.01.1972.

UTILIZATION : Companion.
CLASSIFICATION F.C.I. : Group 9 Companion and Toy Dogs.
  Section 1 Bichons and related breeds.
  Without working trial.



GENERAL APPEARANCE : Merry and playful little dog, with a lively gait, medium length muzzle, long very loose corkskrew-curled hair, very like the coat of the Mongolian goat. Head carriage is proud and high, the eyes dark, lively and expressive.

HEAD : In harmony with the body.

CRANIAL REGION :
Skull : Rather flat to the touch although the furnishings makes it appear round. The skull longer than the muzzle.
Stop : Not much marked.

FACIAL REGION :
Nose : The nose is rounded, black, finely grained and glossy.
Muzzle : The muzzle must not be thick nor heavy, without however being snipey. The furrow between the superciliary arches slightly visible.
Lips : The lips are fine, rather lean, less however than in the Schipperke, falling only enough so as to cover the lower lip, but never heavy nor pendulous; they are normally black up to the corner of the lips; the lower lip must not be heavy nor visible, nor slack and does not allow the mucous membranes to be seen when the mouth is closed.
Jaws/Teeth : Bite normal, i.e. the incisors of the lower jaw are placed immediately against and behind the point of the teeth in the upper jaw.
Cheeks : Flat and not very muscular.
Eyes : Dark eyes, as much as possible with dark eyelids, of a rather round shape and not almond shaped; not placed obliquely; lively, not too big, not showing any white. Neither large nor prominent as in the Griffon Bruxellois and the Pekingese; the socket must not bulge. The eyeball must not stand out too much.
Ears : Drooping, well furnished with finely curled long hairs, carried rather forward when the dog is attentive, but in such a way that the front edge touches the skull and does not stand away obliquely; the length of the cartilage must not, like in the Poodle, extend to the nose, but stops halfway of the length of the muzzle. The ears are anyway not as broad and finer than the Poodle’s.

NECK : Reach of neck is fairly long, carried high and proudly. Round and fine near the skull, broadening gradually to merge smoothly into the shoulders. Its length is approximately a third of the length of the body (proportion of 11 cm to 33 cm for a dog of 27 cm high), the points of the shoulder blades against the withers taken as basis.

BODY :
Loin : Broad and well muscled, slightly arched.
Croup : Slightly rounded.
Chest : Well developed; the sternum is pronounced; the false ribs rounded and do not end abruptly, the chest having horizontally a rather great depth.
Flanks : The flanks are well tucked up at the belly; the skin is fine and not loose, giving quite a whippety appearance.

TAIL : The tail is set a little more below the back line than in the Poodle. Normally the tail is carried raised and gracefully curved in line with the spine, without being rolled up; it is not docked and must not be in contact with the back; however the tail furnishings may fall onto the back.

LIMBS

FOREQUARTERS : Seen from the front, forelegs really straight and perpendicular; fine bone.
Shoulder : The shoulder is fairly slanted, not prominent, giving the appearance of being the same length as the upper arm, about 10 cm.
Upperarm : Not standing away from the body.
Elbow : Not turned out.
Pastern : Short and straight seen from the front; very slightly oblique seen in profile.

HINDQUARTERS : The pelvis is wide.
Thighs : Broad and muscular; well slanting.
Hock : Compared with the Poodle, the hock joint is more angulated.

FEET : Sinewy. Nails preferably black; it is however an ideal difficult to obtain.

SKIN : The pigmentation beneath the white coat is preferably dark; the genitals are then pigmented either black, bluish or beige.

COAT

HAIR : Fine, silky, very loose corkscrew curls looking like the coat (fur) of the Mongolian goat, neither flat nor corded and 7 to 10 cm long.

GROOMING : The dog may be shown with the feet and muzzle slightly tidied up.

COLOUR : Pure white.

SIZE : The height at the withers should not exceed 30 cm, the small size being an element of success.

FAULTS : Any departure from the foregoing points should be considered a fault and the seriousness with which the fault should be regarded should be in exact proportion to its degree.
Slightly overshot or undershot mouth.
Coat flat, wavy, corded or too short.
Pigmentation extending into the coat and forming rusty (red) patches.

ELIMINATING FAULTS :
Pink nose.
Flesh coloured lips.
Prognathism (undershot-overshot) so developed to the extent that the incisors do not touch.
Light eyes.
Rolled up tail or twisted in a spiral.
Black spots in the coat.

N.B. : Male animals should have two apparently normal testicles fully descended into the scrotum.



AKC STANDARD
Bichon Frise Breed Standard
Non-Sporting Group
General Appearance


The Bichon Frise is a small, sturdy, white powder puff of a dog whose merry temperament is evidenced by his plumed tail carried jauntily over the back and his dark-eyed inquisitive expression.
This is a breed that has no gross or incapacitating exaggerations and therefore there is no inherent reason for lack of balance or unsound movement.
Any deviation from the ideal described in the standard should be penalized to the extent of the deviation. Structural faults common to all breeds are as undesirable in the Bichon Frise as in any other breed, even though such faults may not be specifically mentioned in the standard.


Size, Proportion, Substance
Size Dogs and bitches 9½ to 11½ inches are to be given primary preference. Only where the comparative superiority of a specimen outside this range clearly justifies it should greater latitude be taken. In no case, however, should this latitude ever extend over 12 inches or under 9 inches. The minimum limits do not apply to puppies. Proportion--The body from the forward-most point of the chest to the point of rump is ¼ longer than the height at the withers. The body from the withers to lowest point of chest represents ½ the distance from withers to ground. Substance--Compact and of medium bone throughout; neither coarse nor fine.


Head
Expression--Soft, dark-eyed, inquisitive, alert. Eyes are round, black or dark brown and are set in the skull to look directly forward. An overly large or bulging eye is a fault as is an almond shaped, obliquely set eye. Halos, the black or very dark brown skin surrounding the eyes, are necessary as they accentuate the eye and enhance expression. The eye rims themselves must be black. Broken pigment, or total absence of pigment on the eye rims produce a blank and staring expression, which is a definite fault. Eyes of any color other than black or dark brown are a very serious fault and must be severely penalized. Ears are drop and are covered with long flowing hair. When extended toward the nose, the leathers reach approximately halfway the length of the muzzle. They are set on slightly higher than eye level and rather forward on the skull, so that when the dog is alert they serve to frame the face. The skull is slightly rounded, allowing for a round and forward looking eye. The stop is slightly accentuated. Muzzle--A properly balanced head is three parts muzzle to five parts skull, measured from the nose to the stop and from the stop to the occiput. A line drawn between the outside corners of the eyes and to the nose will create a near equilateral triangle. There is a slight degree of chiseling under the eyes, but not so much as to result in a weak or snipey foreface. The lower jaw is strong. The nose is prominent and always black. Lips are black, fine, never drooping. Bite is scissors. A bite which is undershot or overshot should be severely penalized. A crooked or out of line tooth is permissible, however, missing teeth are to be severely faulted.


Neck, Topline and Body
The arched neck is long and carried proudly behind an erect head. It blends smoothly into the shoulders. The length of neck from occiput to withers is approximately 1/3 the distance from forechest to buttocks. The topline is level except for a slight, muscular arch over the loin. Body--The chest is well developed and wide enough to allow free and unrestricted movement of the front legs. The lowest point of the chest extends at least to the elbow. The rib cage is moderately sprung and extends back to a short and muscular loin. The forechest is well pronounced and protrudes slightly forward of the point of shoulder. The underline has a moderate tuck-up. Tail is well plumed, set on level with the topline and curved gracefully over the back so that the hair of the tail rests on the back. When the tail is extended toward the head it reaches at least halfway to the withers. A low tail set, a tail carried perpendicularly to the back, or a tail which droops behind is to be severely penalized. A corkscrew tail is a very serious fault.


Forequarters
Shoulders--The shoulder blade, upper arm and forearm are approximately equal in length. The shoulders are laid back to somewhat near a forty-five degree angle. The upper arm extends well back so the elbow is placed directly below the withers when viewed from the side. Legs are of medium bone; straight, with no bow or curve in the forearm or wrist. The elbows are held close to the body. The pasterns slope slightly from the vertical. The dewclaws may be removed. The feet are tight and round, resembling those of a cat and point directly forward, turning neither in nor out. Pads are black. Nails are kept short.


Hindquarters
The hindquarters are of medium bone, well angulated with muscular thighs and spaced moderately wide. The upper and lower thigh are nearly equal in length meeting at a well bent stifle joint. The leg from hock joint to foot pad is perpendicular to the ground. Dewclaws may be removed. Paws are tight and round with black pads.


Coat
The texture of the coat is of utmost importance. The undercoat is soft and dense, the outercoat of a coarser and curlier texture. The combination of the two gives a soft but substantial feel to the touch which is similar to plush or velvet and when patted springs back. When bathed and brushed, it stands off the body, creating an overall powder puff appearance. A wiry coat is not desirable. A limp, silky coat, a coat that lies down, or a lack of undercoat are very serious faults. Trimming--The coat is trimmed to reveal the natural outline of the body. It is rounded off from any direction and never cut so short as to create an overly trimmed or squared off appearance. The furnishings of the head, beard, moustache, ears and tail are left longer. The longer head hair is trimmed to create an overall rounded impression. The topline is trimmed to appear level. The coat is long enough to maintain the powder puff look which is characteristic of the breed.


Color
Color is white, may have shadings of buff, cream or apricot around the ears or on the body. Any color in excess of 10% of the entire coat of a mature specimen is a fault and should be penalized, but color of the accepted shadings should not be faulted in puppies.


Gait
Movement at a trot is free, precise and effortless. In profile the forelegs and hind legs extend equally with an easy reach and drive that maintain a steady topline. When moving, the head and neck remain somewhat erect and as speed increases there is a very slight convergence of legs toward the center line. Moving away, the hindquarters travel with moderate width between them and the foot pads can be seen. Coming and going, his movement is precise and true.


Temperament
Gentle mannered, sensitive, playful and affectionate. A cheerful attitude is the hallmark of the breed and one should settle for nothing less.

BLOODHOUND

Description


The Bloodhound is a very powerful, massive hound dog. The back is very strong for the dog's size. The head is long and narrow in proportion to the dog's length, and long in proportion to the body. The muzzle is long and the nose is black. The deeply sunk eyes are diamond in shape because of the lower lids being dragged down and turned outward by the heavy upper lips. Color vary's from a deep hazel to yellow. The thin, soft, drooping ears are set very low and extremely long. The Bloodhound has a lot of extra, wrinkled skin hanging excessively loose, even more so around the head and neck where it hangs in deep folds. The dewlap is very pronounced. The muscular, front legs are straight. The tail is carried high with a slight curve above the topline of the back. The folds of the skin aid the dog in holding in scent particles while tracking. The coat is wrinkled, short and fairly hard in texture, with softer hair on the ears and skull. Colors include black & tan, liver & tan, and red & tawny and red. Sometimes there is a small amount of white on the chest, feet and tip of the stern.

Temperament


The Bloodhound is a kind, patient, noble, mild-mannered and lovable dog. Gentle, affectionate and excellent with children. This is truly a good natured companion. These dogs are so good-natured that they will lie there and meekly let children clamber all over them. This breed loves all the attention they receive from them. To be fair to your Bloodhound, make sure your children do not pester or hurt the dog, because Bloodhounds will sit there and take it. Very energetic outdoors and boisterous when young, determined and independent. Bloodhounds need firm, but not heavy handed training. With an owner who displays anything but a natural, calm but stern authority will bring out a streak of willfulness. The new owner of a Bloodhound will need to have plenty of patience and to possess great tact for consistent leadership for training to succeed. Clear rules need to be set and followed. If you show signs of being a meek owner, this dog will not listen to you. Do not expect too much by way of obedience from this dog. They  are naturally gentle animals but they are not easy to obedience train. If they catch a scent of something it can be hard to redirect their attention back to you if you are out of physical range of them. Males go through puberty in-between the age of 1 and 2 years. They can be quite a handful at that time and one really needs to make sure they are being a firm pack leader, but after age 2, with the proper leadership, training, stimulation and consistency, they will mellow out a bit. Socialize well to prevent them from becoming timid. It is very important that this dog is taken for a daily pack walk. Bloodhounds who are lacking in mental and or physical exercise will be hard to handle. A Bloodhound becomes devoted to its master and gets along well with people. This dog loves everyone and some will greet wanted and unwanted visitors happily. Others do not welcome unwanted guests. They can be protective of their domain, if no one is home, but out on a trail, they will welcome anyone. Some will bark and let you know when strangers are around. They can live in harmony with other dogs and household pets. Bloodhounds are droolers and have a tendency to snore and howl. Their noses are so superb that it is hard for them to not wander off after an interesting scent. They may also sniff humans in places that are considered inappropriate. While humans see this as rude, the dog is actually learning a lot about them. Bloodhounds are able to follow any scent, even human - a rare ability in a dog. This breed has been said to successfully follow trails over 100 hours old. He is so determined that he has been known to stay with the trail for over 100 miles. The Bloodhound is such a sure tracker that the breed is used worldwide for rescue and criminal searches. The Bloodhound's evidence is admissible in the court of law. One Bloodhound brought about 600 criminal arrests and convictions. Bloodhounds can never be kept in an unfenced yard. There is a good chance instinct will lead them to wander off if they are off leash. They flee when they get on a scent, instinct drives them to find the end of the trail.

Height, Weight
Height: Dogs 25-27 inches (63-69cm) Bitches 23-25 inches (58-63cm)
Weight: Dogs 90-110 pounds (41-50kg) Bitches 80-100 pounds (36-45kg)

Health Problems
This breed is prone to bloat. You should feed two or three small meals a day instead of one large one. Avoid exercise after meals. Some suffer from stomach cramps. Prone to hip dysplasia, ear infections and entropion, where the eyelids turn inward. A padded bed is recommended to avoid calluses on the joints.

Living Conditions
The Bloodhound will do okay in an apartment if sufficiently exercised. They are relatively inactive indoors and do best with at least an average-sized yard.

Exercise
Bloodhounds love a good run and need a lot of exercise. They should be taken for a long daily walk. However, if it picks up an interesting scent, you may find it difficult to get its attention. They have an incredible level of stamina and can walk for hours on end. They would greatly enjoy hiking with you, but keep in mind their urge to investigate any interesting scent. Do not overtire them with walks until they are fully grown. The Bloodhound is a big dog that grows rapidly and needs all its energy for developing strong bones, joints and muscles.

Life Expectancy
About 10-12 years

Litter Size
Average 8 - 10 - Some have been known to have up to 15 pups in one litter

Grooming
The smooth, shorthaired coat is easy to groom. Groom with a hound glove, and bathe only when necessary. A rub with a rough towel or chamois will leave the coat gleaming. Clean the long, floppy ears regularly. Bloodhounds have a distinctive dog-type odor. This breed is an average shedder.

Origin


This breed is more than one thousand years old. It was perfected, not created, by monks of St. Hubert in Belgium. Later the dogs were brought by the Normans into England and then to the United States. It is also known as the Flemish Hound. Throughout the world, breeds such as the American Coonhounds, Swiss Jura Hounds, Brazilian Fila Brasileiro, Bavarian Mountain Hound, and many others trace their lineage back to this ancient scent tracker. Today, all Bloodhounds are black & tan, or red, but in the Middle Ages they were solid in color. The white variety, which existed in medieval Europe, was called the Talbot Hound, who became extinct in the 1600's, but contributed to the development of many other breeds including the white Boxers and tri-colored Basset Hounds. The Bloodhound thrives on the hunt rather than the kill. It takes great pleasure in tracking and has been used to hunt animals, criminals, runaway slaves, and lost children. Today this slow mannered, rich sounding breed is both tracker and companion. Although it has a pleasant temperament, it is not easy to obedience train, most likely largely due to the fact that it gets distracted from human command, more interested in all of the exciting strong smells around him.

BOBTAIL

n.a.

Boerboel

The Boerboel is the only breed in the world specifically bred to guard and protect without being aggressive. They are loving, calm, obedient and intelligent, with strong guard-dog instincts. Boerboels are self-assured and fearless, requiring a dominant owner. They are loving pets and always ready to play. You should purchase a Boerboel for his even character. This was and always should be his main quality.

Your Boerboel should qualify himself as your best friend. He should know what you are thinking, when you feel threatened, he should know when you approve or disapprove of a stranger and share your feelings. Boerboel are protectors and they will guard their family, friends, and home with their life. When you are out of the house they will not let anyone enter unless they are very familiar with them. However if you have visitors around they will be fine as long as they have been introduced, once a guest arrives that they are unfamiliar with they will keep a watchful eye on them. He should be able to recognise your fear. Any Boerboel owner should be able to confirm this. These traits will show when the Boerboel is about 7-12 months old. The more you bond with your Boerboel, the more he will want to please you and protect you.

He is definitely a child's friend and playmate. He does not only accept one person as his master, but accepts the protection of the whole family as his duty and is affectionate to all of them. Many a story has been told about a Boerboel spending hour after hour guarding a little baby in a pram. He feels the whole family belongs to him and his sole purpose is to protect them.

The first owners of Boerboel's required them to: During the day the dog must go to the fields with the children to guard the sheep. There he should catch a hare for them to cook for lunch. He should also protect them against all danger that may threaten them. At night he should lie in front of the fire at home and protect the whole family against anything that may be lurking in the dark.

Generally males grow to around 60 - 72 cm tall and weigh approximately 55 - 70 kg. Females are usually slightly shorter around 55 - 69 cm and weigh less than the males at around 45 -60 kg.

The Boerboel suffers from HD, ED and Vaginal Prolaps.

BORDER COLLIE

Description


The Border Collie is a medium sized, energetic working dog. The body is slightly longer than it is tall. The relatively flat skull is moderate in width. The skull and muzzle are about the same length, with a moderate stop. The strong teeth meet in a scissors bite. The oval eyes are set well apart and brown in color, except in merles where one or more eyes may be blue. The medium sized ears are set well apart, either carried erect or simi erect. The front legs are straight when viewed from the front but slightly sloping when viewed from the side. The medium sized tail is set low reaching at least to the hock, raising somewhat when the dog is excited. Dewclaws are usually removed. The double coat is weather resistant, dense and close-fitting. There are two coat varieties: a short, sleek coat (about 1 inch (2.5 cm.) long) and a coarse, rough coat (about 3 inches (7.6 cm.) long). The coat colors come in black and white, tri-color, red & white, black & gray, yellow, yellow & white, sable, and all black. The longer haired variety should have a mane and tail brush. The hair on the face, ears and front legs is always short and sleek. Since Border Collies are bred for working ability and intelligence rather than for physical beauty, conformation varies widely.

Temperament


The Border Collie is very intelligent and aware of their surroundings. They are able to be trained to a high degree. This is one of the hardest working dogs thriving on praise. Border Collies are represented among the leaders in competitive levels in various sports, excelling in agility skills, obedience, sheepdog trials and Frisbee (TM). These competitions are right up their alley, and they are commonly used and often win. For those who wish to reach high levels in dog sports, the Border Collie is a gift from heaven. Farmers are also happy with them, as they were originally bred as a farm hand. The Border Collie is highly energetic with great stamina. Provided they gets sufficient activity to keep them occupied and ample exercise, the Border Collie will get along quite happily with other dogs, and children, however they may be aggressive with other dogs of the same sex if you are not showing 100% leadership with them. They should not be trusted with small non-canine pets, however there are plenty of Border Collies that live and get along with family cats. This breed can be sensitive and should be very well socialized as a puppy to prevent shyness. To be truly happy, they need a lot of consistent leadership, extensive daily exercise, and a job to occupy their minds. Border Collies will often challenge their owners authority when they are adolescents. Dominance levels vary greatly even within the same litter. You need to be this dogs firm, confident, consistent pack leader, or he may try and take over. If you allow them to take over, without enough socialization and mental and physical exercise, they can be highly reactive and sound sensitive, making them a poor choice for families with young children. They are perfectionist with a permanent will to please. This breed lives for serving you day in and day out. They are not ideal pets for people who have no plans to spend a lot of time with them. These dogs are too intelligent to lie around the house all day with nothing to do. If you are not willing to put many hours a day into keeping these dogs well exercised in both mind and body, than it is recommended you do not adopt a Border Collie. There are other breeds whom are similar yet not as demanding. If there is insufficient activity then it will find its own work to do, and that may not be what YOU had in mind when we say the word WORK.  When not challenged daily they can and will become destructive. They cannot be left alone for too long with nothing to do if they have not been exercised to the point where they are both mentally and physically tired. A bored Border Collie will not make a good pet, as they can become neurotic and may start using their escape artist talents, among other behavior problems. They have strong herding instincts and may try to herd children and strangers and must be told this is not acceptable.

Height, Weight
Height:  Dogs 19-22 inches (48-56 cm.) Bitches 18-21 inches (46-53 cm.)
Weight: Dogs 30-45 pounds (14-20 kg.) Bitches 27-42 pounds (12-19 kg.)

Health Problems


Prone to epilepsy, hip dysplasia, PRA (Collie Eye Anomaly) and deafness. Often allergic to fleas.

Living Conditions
The Border Collie is not recommended for apartment life. They are very active indoors and do best with acreage. This breed will do fine in a kennel provided it has daily activity and sees plenty of its handler. This breed is not suited to life chained up in the back yard all day.

Exercise
Physical exercise alone is not sufficient for this very intelligent and highly energetic dog. They want to work and must do so with body and mind as one, carrying out different tasks. Fast and agile, these lively little dogs have boundless energy and thrive on hard work and play. They should also be taken on a long, brisk daily walk. They are a delight to see streaking after a ball or bringing straying sheep back to the fold.

Life Expectancy
About 12-15 years

Litter Size
4 - 8 puppies - Average 6

Grooming
The Border Collie needs regular combing and brushing to keep the coat gleaming. Extra care is needed when the soft, dense undercoat is shedding. Bathe or dry shampoo only when necessary. Check the ears and coat regularly for ticks. This breed is an average shedder.
Origin


The Border Collie was originally called the "Scotch Sheep Dog" and originated in Northumberland along the borders of Scotland and England. It is a descendant from dogs used by the Vikings to herd reindeer, the old British droving breeds, with spaniel added. Named a "workaholic" for its shear drive and love for working, the Border Collie has an eye that can hypnotize cattle. It can master any type of herd by crouching down and mesmerizing the animals with its intense stare. One of the most trainable breeds, the Border Collie also serves well as a narcotics and bomb detection dog and is a frequent high performer in obedience, agility, Frisbee(TM) trials, police work, search & rescue, Flyball, performing tricks and competitive obedience. Some Border Collies have been trained very successfully as blind guide dogs. Currently very good results are obtained with them for general assistance to the handicapped in The Netherlands. The Border Collie was first recognized by the AKC in 1995.

BORZOI

Description


The Borzoi is similar in shape to the greyhound. It has a narrow, slightly domed head, with almost no stop. The long muzzle is slightly arched. The teeth meet in a level or scissors bite. The large nose is black. The dark eyes have a slant to them. The small ears lay back on the head. The back line is arched slightly upward and the chest is narrow, but deep. The front legs are straight. The tail is set low with a curve. The coat is long, silky, flat, or wavy. The hair on the neck, hindquarters and tail is is longer than the hair on the rest of the body. Comes in any color or combination of colors. Common colors include Black, white, tan, tan or gray with black markings, golden in either solid or mixed colors.

Temperament
The Borzoi is a sweet, intelligent dog. They are proud and are extremely loyal to their family. They are quite affectionate with people they know well. They can be trained in obedience, but it should be remembered that they are hounds, and as such are more free-thinking, and less willing to please humans than some breeds. They are, however, very intelligent, and capable learners. The training of this breed needs to be gentle but firm and consistent. The Borzoi needs an owner who displays a natural authority over him making the rules of the home clear and confidently sticking to them. Borzoi often appear to be cat-like in that they keep themselves quite clean. They are quiet dogs, rarely barking. Like all other sight hounds, they are very fast, and have little-to-no territorial instinct. Therefore, they cannot be trusted off leash, unless in a securely fenced or very safe area. If they get sight of a small animal they may take off after it and not even hear you calling them back. Good with other dogs but should be supervised with small non-canine pets such as cats, rabbits, guinea pigs and hamsters. Spending time outdoors with small animals is not advised. Socialize them very well with cats and other pets at as young an age as possible, but remember the Borzoi will always be a hunter that may race after a fleeing animal. The Borzoi is a noble dog that gets along fairly well with children, but it is not ideally suited for being a child's companion as it does not take well to rough-housing play. During the growing stage, these dogs need a highly nutritional diet.

Height, Weight
Height: Dogs at least 28 inches (71cm) Bitches at least 26 inches (66cm)
Weight: Dogs 75-105 pounds (34-48kg) Bitches 60-90 pounds (27-41kg)

Health Problems
Prone to bloat. Large meals should be avoided, but rather should have small meals two or three times a day. Avoid exercise after meals. Sensitive to drugs.

Living Conditions
Will do okay in an apartment if sufficiently exercised. They are relatively inactive indoors and are so peaceful it might escape notice, but outside they need plenty of space to walk and run - so it will do best with at least an average-sized yard. In the city he should only be let off the lead in a safe, enclosed space.

Exercise
To maintain their fitness these dogs need plenty of exercise, including a long daily walk and regular opportunities to run off the leash, however in some countries it is forbidden to allow all the dogs in this fleet-footed hunting category off the leash. The Borzoi make excellent jogging companions and usually enjoy running alongside a bicycle but beware, a Borzoi is quite likely to shoot off after any prey it catches site of. If this happens you will need to react very quickly.

Life Expectancy
About 10-12 years

Litter Size
Average of 6 puppies, however can be anywhere from 1 - 11 puppies (1 pup in a litter is common)

Grooming
The long silky coat is easy to groom. Brush regularly with a firm bristle brush, and dry shampoo when necessary. Bathing presents a problem with such a tall dog but shouldn't be required very often. Clip the hair between the toes to keep the feet comfortable and to stop them from spreading. This breed is a seasonally heavy shedder.

Origin


The Borzoi was bred for hundreds of years by the Russian nobility. They were developed by crossing the Arabian Greyhound with other longer haired Russian sheepdogs. The dogs were called Russian Wolfhounds in America, up until 1936 when the name was changed to "Borzoi", coming from a Russian word 'borzii' which means swift. Fierce on the hunt, this sight hound was used for hundreds of years to hunt wolves, fox and hare in the open planes of Russia. As the breed became more popular it was used more and more as a companion dog and its temperament became more docile. The Borzoi was recognized by the AKC in 1891. The Borzois talents include hunting, sighting and lure coursing.

BOSTON TERRIER

Description


Boston Terriers, also called the Boston bull, are compact and well-muscled dogs. The body is short with a square appearance. The square looking head is flat on the top and in proportion to the rest of the body. The deep, wide, short muzzle is in proportion with the head. The nose is black. The stop is well defined. The bite is either even or slightly undershot giving the muzzle the square look. The large, round dark eyes are wide-set. The erect ears are small and either cropped or left natural. The limbs are straight and muscular. The legs are set somewhat wide apart, and the chest is broad. The neck is slightly arched. The low-set, tapering tail is short and either straight or screw shaped and is never docked. The short, fine textured coat comes in seal, brindle and white, black and white and some are born brown & white.

Temperament


The Boston Terrier is gentle, alert, very intelligent, well-mannered and enthusiastic. Without the proper amount of mental and physical exercise they can become rambunctious and a bit high strung. They are very sensitive to the tone of one's voice. Boston's like to learn and therefore are not difficult to train. Their intelligence ensures they pick things up quickly. If the humans around the dog do not display the leadership that all dogs need, they will become willful as they begin to believe they are running the show and need to tell YOU what to do. Do not allow the Boston Terrier to developed Small Dog Syndrome, human induced behaviors where the dog believes he is pack leader to humans. This can cause a varying degree of behavior issues. Boston's need a gentle, but firm, confident, consistent pack leader who knows how to display authority over the dog. It is a canine instinct to have a strong leader and this little guy is no exception to the rule. Either the human will be that leader, or the dog will. Some owners have reported that their dogs are good watchdogs barking only when necessary, while other owners have reported their female Boston Terriers do not bark at the door at all. Most reliable with children, especially good with elderly people and very friendly with strangers. The Boston Terrier is playful, very affectionate and likes to be part of the family. Very popular in the United States, due above all to its excellent character. They generally get along well with non-canine pets. Without proper leadership from humans communicating to the dog what is acceptable behavior and what is not, they can become dominant and may fight with other dogs. These little dogs may be difficult to housebreak.

Height, Weight
Height:  15-17 inches (38.1-43cm.)
Weight:  10-25 pounds (4.5-11.3kg.)

Health Problems


Prone to eye problems such as juvenile cataracts, late-onset cataracts, entropion, distichiasis, glaucoma, corneal dystrophy, corneal ulcers, cherry eye, dry eyes (Keratitis Sicca) The prominent eyes are prone to injury. Also, deafness, patellar luxation, heart and skin tumors.  These short-faced dogs may have breathing difficulties when stressed by exertion in hot or cold weather and can overheat if they are pushed too hard.  They may also snore or drool. Whelping is often difficult as the pelvis is narrow and the large headed pups are often delivered by cesarean section.

Living Conditions
Boston Terriers are good for apartment as well as country living. They are relatively inactive indoors and do okay without a yard. This breed is sensitive to weather extremes.

Exercise
A long daily walk and sessions of free play in a fenced-in yard are all the Boston Terrier needs to stay in shape. They are fairly light weight and can easily be carried.

Life Expectancy
About 15 or more years

Litter Size
Average 3 - 4 puppies - Because of this breeds large head, Caesarean births are very common
Grooming
The smooth, short-haired coat is easy to groom. Comb and brush with a firm bristle brush and bathe only when necessary. Wipe the face with a damp cloth every day and clean the prominent eyes carefully. Check both the ears and eyes for grass seeds. Ticks may also lurk in the ears. The nails should be clipped from time to time. This breed is an average shedder and does not have a strong doggie odor.
Origin
Bred down in size from pit-fighting dogs of the bull and terrier types, the Boston Terrier originally weighed up to 44 pounds (20 kg.) (Olde Boston Bulldogge). It is difficult to believe that these stylish, little dogs were once tough pit-fighters. In fact, their weight classifications were once divided as lightweight, middle and heavyweight. Originating in the city of Boston, Massachusetts, the Boston Terrier is one of the few breeds that was developed in the USA. The original Boston Terriers were a cross between the English Bulldog and now extinct English White Terrier. Around 1865, the coachmen employed by the wealthy people of Boston began to interbreed some of the dogs owned by their employers. One of these crosses, between an English White Terrier and an English Bulldog resulted in a dog named Hooper's Judge. Judge weighed over 30 pounds (13.5 kg.). He was bred down in size with a smaller female and one of those male pups was bred to yet a smaller female. Their offspring interbred with one or more French Bulldogs, providing the foundation for the Boston Terrier. By 1889 the breed had become sufficiently popular in Boston that fanciers formed the American Bull Terrier Club, but this proposed name was not well liked by Bull Terrier lovers. Nor did they like the breeds nickname, "roundheads". Shortly after, the breed was named the Boston Terrier after its birthplace. The breed was recognized by the AKC in 1893. It was first shown in Boston in 1870. In the early years the color and markings were not very important but by the 1900's the breeds distinctive markings and color were written into the standard. Terrier only in name, the Boston Terrier has mellowed from the pit fighting dogs of the past.

BOXER

Description


The Boxer's body is compact and powerful. The head is in proportion with the body. The muzzle is short and blunt with a distinct stop. The nose is large and black with very open nostrils. The jaw has an under bite. The eyes are dark brown. The ears are set high, either cropped or kept natural. When cropped they are trained to stand up on the head, tapering to a point. When left natural the ears are thin, falling forward, laying close to the head. The neck should be round, strong, and muscular, a without dewlap. The muscular, front legs are straight and parallel when viewed from the front. The back legs are well muscled. The tail is set high and usually docked. The AKC severely penalizes a natural tail, while most of Europe has outlawed this practice. Dewclaws are usually removed. The short, smooth, close-fitting coat comes in, fawn, brindle, tan, mahogany, black often with white markings. Boxers also come in a white coat that cannot be registered with some clubs.

Temperament


The Boxer is happy, high-spirited, playful, curious and energetic. Highly intelligent, eager and quick to learn. The Boxer is a good dog for competitive obedience. Constantly on the move, bonding very closely with the family. Loyal and affectionate, Boxers are known for the way they get along so well with children. A well brought-up and properly socialized Boxer will also get along with his own kind and other household pets such as cats. Animals such as rodents, ducks, chickens and other farm birds may be too tempting, however, they can be taught to, "leave it" but it is still not reccomended they be left alone with them. It has been said that the name Boxer came from the way the Boxer likes to use is front paws for just about everything. If you have ever watched a Boxer go about his business you may have noticed the way he paws at his toys, food bowl and you for that matter, in a very playful cat-like way. While participating the sport of schutzhund, Boxers are known to jump up and use their front paws as if they are boxing. They are very clownish and playful. The Boxer's nature is to protect you, your family, and your home. Known visitors will be welcomed. They are always keen to work and play. Boxers need lots of human leadership. Teach the Boxer not to be boisterous and especially not to jump up at people. This breed is noted for courage and make great guard dogs. Boxers have a wide use in military and police work. An excellent watchdog, the Boxer will restrain an intruder in the same way a Bulldog does. They are extremely athletic, sometimes even in their old age. This dog needs to go on a daily pack walk. Daily mental and physical exercise is paramount. Without it, the Boxer will become high strung. This breed requires a dominant owner. Training should start young and be firm and consistent. The objective in training this dog is to achieve a pack leader status. It is a natural instinct for a dog to have an order in their pack. When we humans live with dogs, we become their pack. The entire pack cooperates under a single leader. Lines are clearly defined. You and all other humans MUST be higher up in the order than the dog. That is the only way your relationship can be a success. Meek Boxer owners will find their dogs to become stubborn. If they do not take you seriously they will be sneaky, demanding, boisterous and hard to control. Teach the Boxer dominating another dog is not acceptable. Any signs of dominance needs to be immediately corrected by the owners in a calm, but firm, confident way.

Height, Weight
Height: Dogs 22-25 inches (56-63 cm.) Bitches 21-24 inches (53-61 cm)
Weight: Dog 60-70 pounds (27-32 kg.) Bitches 53-65 pounds (24-29 kg.)

Health Problems
Some major concerns are cardiomyopathy and other heart problems, sub-aortic stenosis, and thyroid. Can be prone to skin and other allergies. Sometimes prone to epilepsy and hip dysplasia. From age eight on they are more likely to get tumors than other breeds. These dogs may drool and snore. May have excessive flatulence, especially when fed something other than their own dog food. Some white Boxers are prone to deafness.

Living Conditions
Boxers will do okay in an apartment if sufficiently exercised. They are fairly active indoors and do best with at least an average-sized yard. Boxers are temperature sensitive, getting easily over heated and chilling very quickly.

Exercise
An active, athletic breed, Boxers need daily work or exercise, as well as a long brisk, daily walk. They also enjoy fetching a ball or other sessions of play.

Life Expectancy
About 11-14 years

Litter Size
2 - 10 puppies - Average 6
Grooming
The Boxer's smooth, short-haired coat is easy to groom. Brush with a firm bristle brush, and bathe only when necessary, for it removes the natural oils from the skin. Some Boxers try and keep themselves clean, grooming themselves like a cat, although some cannot resist rolling in another animals poop, which calls for a bath. This breed is an average shedder.
Origin


The Boxer was developed in Germany in the 19th century. The Boxer's ancestors were two German mastiff type dogs, the Bullenbeiszer and the Barenbeiszer. They were later crossed with the powerful ancestors of the Mastiff and Bulldog. Early Boxers were used for dog fighting, bull baiting, cart pulling, cattle dogs, to round up livestock and to catch and pin wild boar and bison until hunters could arrive. They later became popular theater and circus dogs. The first Boxer studbook was started in 1904. Up until then the dogs varied widely in looks and size. The Boxer is known for the way it uses its front legs to bat at its opponent, appearing to be boxing with the front paws, most likely giving the dog its name. Some of the Boxer's talents are watchdog, guarding, police work, military work, search & rescue, competitive obedience, schutzhund and performing tricks. Breeders are breeding two types of Boxers, the German Boxer and the American Boxer. The German Boxers have bigger heads and are generally more muscular than American Boxers.

BULGARIAN SHEPHERD DOG

n.a.

BULGARIAN HOUND

n.a.

BULL TERRIER

Description


The Bull Terrier is a strongly built, muscular dog. The body is well round with a short strong back. The head is long and strong, oval looking in shape, almost flat at the top, sloping evenly down to the nose with no stop. The nose is black. The eyes are almond-shaped, small and deep-set, dark in color. The ears are small, thin and close together. The long neck is very muscular, with robust shoulders. The tail is set low and on the short side carried horizontally. The coat is dense, short, flat and harsh to the touch. The AKC recognizes two color varieties, the White Bull Terrier and the Colored Bull Terrier. The White Bull Terrier is allowed to have colored markings on the head, but no where else on the body. The Colored Bull Terriers may be black, brindle, black-brindle, red, fawn and tri-color with white markings.

Temperament


Though this breed was once a fierce gladiator, he is much gentler now. A Bull Terrier might have a preventive effect and it might defend it's owner in a truly critical situation, but it isn't bred to be a guard dog. Courageous, scrappy, fun-loving, active, clownish and fearless. The Bull Terrier is a loyal, polite, and obedient dog. They become very attached to their owners. The Bull Terrier thrives on firm, consistent leadership and affection and makes a fine family pet. Bull Terriers like to be doing something and fit in well with active families where they receive a great deal of companionship and supervision. They do not do well in situations where they are left alone for 8 hours a day. With the right type of owner this breed is a joy to own, but not recommended for most households. Fond of both grown-ups and children, but if they do not get enough physical and mental exercise they may be too energetic for small children. Children should be taught how to display leadership towards the dog. Meek owners will find them to become very protective, willful, possessive and or jealous. Bull Terriers may try to join into family rough housing or quarrel. They need very firm training and lots of exercise. Bull Terriers must be given a lot of structure, or they may become destructive. Be sure to socialize them well and remain their pack leader 100% of the time, otherwise, they can be extremely aggressive with other dogs. Unaltered males may not get along with other male dogs. They are not recommended with other non-canine pets such as rabbits, hamsters and guinea pigs. They make excellent watch dogs. This breed can be somewhat difficult to train.

Height, Weight
Standard Bull Terrier
Height: 20-24 inches (51-61 cm.) Weight: 45-80 pounds (20-36 kg.)
Miniature Bull Terrier
Height: 10-14 inches (25-33 cm)  Weight: up to 24-33 pounds (11-15 kg)

Health Problems


Prone to slipped patella (dislocation of the kneecaps), heart defects, kidney failure and skin and flea allergies. Prone to suffer from a zinc deficiency, which can cause death. Gains weight easily. Do not overfeed. White Bull Terriers are prone to deafness.

Living Conditions
Bull Terriers will do okay in an apartment if they are sufficiently exercised. They are fairly active indoors and a small yard will do. They prefer warm climates.

Exercise
This breed needs vigorous daily exercise, which includes a daily, long walk. The Bull Terrier has a tendency to become overweight and lazy if it is not properly exercised.

Life Expectancy
About 10-12 years

Litter Size
As little as 1 puppy and as many as 9 - Average 5

Grooming


The Bull Terrier is easy to groom. An occasional combing and brushing will do. This breed is an average shedder, shedding twice a year. You can remove loose hair by a daily rubdown with a special rubber glove.
Origin


In the early 1800's Bulldogs crossed with terriers were popular. By 1830 combat between Bulldogs and bulls were at the height of their popularity. Lovers of this so called "sport" decided to create a dog that would attack even more agilely. They crossed the Bulldog with the Old English Terrier adding in some Spanish Pointer blood, the result was the Bull Terrier breed. They soon found that the Bull Terriers were not the most successful fighters. In 1860 the white-coated variety, which was nicknamed the "White Cavalier" was bred by a dog dealer named English dog dealer James Hinks and soon became a fashionable pet for nobles. The colored variety of Bull Terriers were created by back crossing them with brindle Staffordshires The breed has been used as a guard, ratter, herder and watchdog. The Miniature was developed to have the same qualities as the Standard Bull Terrier but with a more manageable size. The Standard Bull Terrier was first recognized by the AKC in 1885 and the Miniature Bull Terrier in 1991. While the AKC sees the Standard Bull Terrier and the Miniature Bull Terrier as separate breeds the standard requirements are the same accept for size. Whereas most other clubs see them as different varieties of the same breed or the same breed without placing a variety label. For example the FCI (Federation Cynologique Internationale) has both breeds listed under Bull Terrier separating them by a Standard and Miniature variety. The UCK (United Kennel Club) does not place any height or weight restrictions but does require the dog to be in proportion. The Bull Terrier was recognized by the United Kennel Club in 1948.

BULLMASTIFF

Description



The Bullmastiff is massive, very powerfully built, but is not a cumbersome dog. The large, broad skull is wrinkled and the muzzle is broad, deep and usually darker in color. The forehead is flat and the stop is moderate. The black nose is wide and has large nostrils. The teeth meet in a level or undershot bite. The medium sized eyes are dark hazel. The V-shaped ears are set high and wide carried close to the cheeks giving a square appearance to the skull. The strong tail is set high, thicker at the root and tapering and is either straight or curved, and reaches to the hocks. The back is short, straight and level between the withers and the loin. The short, dense, slightly rough coat comes in brindle, fawn, or red, often with black markings on the head.

Temperament


The Bullmastiff is a devoted, alert guard dog, with a good-natured temperament. Docile and affectionate, but fearless if provoked. Although unlikely to attack, it will catch an intruder, knock him down and hold him. At the same time, it is tolerant of children. Intelligent, even-tempered, calm and loyal. These dogs crave human leadership. The Bullmastiff is extremely powerful and needs a firm master, who is confident and consistent with the rules set upon the dog. They should be thoroughly obedience trained, and should be taught not to pull on the leash. When going in and out gateways or doorways the dog should allow the humans to enter and exit first out of pack respect, because in the dog's mind, the leader goes first. The dog must heel beside or behind the human. This is most important as not only do dogs have migration instincts and need to walk daily, but instinct tells a dog the pack leader goes first. Be sure to socialize extensively with both people and other dogs at an early age. They can be okay with other pets, depending on how well the owners communicate with the dog. The Bullmastiff is a more dominant breed than the Mastiff. He tends to drool, slobber and snore. Puppies may seem uncoordinated. These dogs are very sensitive to the tone of your voice and need someone to speak with an air of assertiveness, but not harshly. It is not a difficult dog but does require a handler who can assert his authority. The Bullmastiff should never be banished to a kennel. Meek or passive owners will find it hard to control this dog. It will appear willful, possibly aggressive with other dogs and reserved with strangers if owners do not take the time to socialize, and know how to properly communicate what is expected in a meaningful manner.

Height, Weight
Height: Dogs 25-27 inches (63-69cm) Bitches 24-26 inches (61-66cm)
Weight: Dogs 110-133 pounds (50-60kg) Bitches 100-120 pounds (45-54kg)

Health Problems


Prone to cancer, hip dysplasia, tumors, eyelid problems, PRA and boils on the lips. Also prone to bloat. It is a good idea to feed them two or three small meals a day instead of one large meal. Gains weight easily, do not over feed.

Living Conditions
Bullmastiffs will do okay in an apartment if it is sufficiently exercised. It is relatively inactive indoors and a small yard will do. They can not tolerate extremes of temperatures.

Exercise
Bullmastiffs need to be taken on a daily walk to fulfill their primal canine instinct to migrate. Those individuals who do not get this need met are more likely to have behavior issues. While out on the walk the dog must be made to heel beside or behind the person holding the lead, as in a dog's mind the leader leads the way, and that leader needs to be the human. Teach them to enter and exit all door and gateways after the human.

Life Expectancy
Under 10 years.

Litter Size
4 - 13 puppies - Average 8

Grooming
The short-haired, slightly rough coat is easy to groom. Comb and brush with a firm bristle brush, and shampoo only when necessary. There is little shedding with this breed. Check the feet regularly because they carry a lot of weight, and trim the nails.

Origin
The Bullmastiff was obtained by crossing 60% Mastiffs with 40% Bulldogs in the country of England. Mastiff Bulldog types can be found in records as early back as 1795. In 1924 Bullmastiffs began to be judged. Three generations of breeding of Bullmastiffs was required for Bullmastiffs to be registered as purebreds. The Bullmastiff was used as a gamekeeper's dog to track down, tackle and hold poachers. The dogs were fierce and threatening, but were trained not to bite the intruders. When the need for gamekeeper's dogs decreased, the dark brindle dogs so good for night camouflage gave way in popularity to the lighter fawn coloration. It has been prized as a hunting guard, as an aid in army and police work, and is used as a watchdog by the Diamond Society of South Africa. Today's Bullmastiff is a reliable family companion and guardian. It enjoys living with the family, with whom it comforts itself well.

CANAAN DOG

Description


The Canaan Dog is medium-sized, and squarely proportioned. The head is wedge-shaped with a shallow, but defined stop. The muzzle is the same size or slightly longer than the skull, tapering. The nose is varying shades of liver depending on the coat color. The teeth meet in a scissors bite, and a level bite is accepted in the FCI standard but not the AKC. The almond-shaped eyes are slightly slanted and come in shades of hazel. The eye rims are varying shades of liver depending on the coat color. The ears are erect and mobile. The neck is well arched. The legs are straight. The tail is set high and may be carried over the back when the dog is excited. The cat-like feet have hard pads. Dewclaws may be removed. The Canaan Dog has a double coat. The outer coat is harsh, lying flat with a slight rough and the undercoat is straight and soft, lying flat. Coat colors include solid black, tan, brown, sandy, red, liver, white, or in a patched pattern of liver and white, brown and white, black and white, with a symmetrical mask matching the color of their patches. Solid colors may have white trim on the chest, feet and tip of the tail. Note: the FCI standard allows solid white dogs, but the AKC and the Canaan Club of American standard does not. Dogs with red coats are either born creamy white and then darken or dark reddish brown and then lighten.

Temperament


Not only does the Canaan Dog excel as a herder, but it has also proven itself in a variety of tasks involving dependability and obedience such as agility, tracking and herding trials. They work well as a team, but at the same time can think independently. Will respond to positive, motivational training if the owner mixes things up, but will get board with repetition. This very intelligent breed can do exceptionally well in obedience. Devoted, gentle and loyal, they like their families. A naturally protective, independent guard dog as well as an excellent watchdog who has an instinct to defend their territory. Will bark a lot if allowed to get away with it. Has a higher dominancy level and can be aggressive with dogs and needs an authoritative owner who can communicate that aggressiveness towards other dogs is an unwanted behavior. Active, alert and docile, they are very friendly with those they know. They should be well socialized, preferably when young with both dogs and people, especially with children, as the breed tends to be naturally wary of strangers. In order to successfully keep a Canaan Dog the family must achieve a pack leader status. It is a natural instinct for a dog to have an order in their pack. When we humans live with dogs, we become their pack. The entire pack cooperates under a single leader. Lines are clearly defined and rules are set. Because a dog communicates his displeasure with growling and eventually biting, all other humans MUST be higher up in the order than the dog. The humans must be the ones making the decisions, not the dogs. That is the only way your relationship with your dog can be a complete success.

Height, Weight
Height: 19-24 inches (48-61 cm.)
Weight:  35-55 pounds (16-25 kg.)

Health Problems
Generally healthy.

Living Conditions
The Canaan Dog will do okay in an apartment if it gets enough exercise. They are moderately active indoors and will do best with at least an average-sized yard. Its dense undercoat protects the dog from extreme temperatures, whether it be hot or cold - so it can live outdoors, but also makes a wonderful housedog.
Exercise
This is a working dog that will not be happy just sitting around. They need a lot of exercise and mental and physical challenges, which include long daily walks, or a daily jog, along with herding exercises, a strenuous game session along with a challenging training session.

Life Expectancy
About 12-15 years.

Grooming
The Canaan Dog is a very clean breed with no doggie odor. It is easy to groom. Comb and brush once a week, taking extra care when the dog is shedding. This breed is a seasonally heavy shedder.

Origin


The Canaan Dog originated in the 1930's in the land of Canaan out of breedings of the wild dogs of Israel, which dated back to biblical times working as guard and herding dogs for the Israelites. Drawings of dogs which looked like the Canaan dog were found in tombs that dated back to 2200 BC. Arab desert-dwelling groups (Bedouins) still use the dogs for guarding their camps and sheep and for herding the flocks. The breeds founder, Dr. Rudolphina Menzel trained more than 400 Canaan Dogs to use in mine detection work for the Middle East forces. The dogs were able to detect mines better than any mechanical devices. In 1965 he imported four dogs to the United States by ship on the western shores. These first four imports had coat colorings of white with black masks and patches. Later imports introduced a variety of other color patterns. Some of the Canaan Dog's talents include, search & rescue, war sentry, messenger, mine detector, tracker, herder, guard, and a guide for the blind. The Canaan Dog was first recognized by the AKC in 1997.

CANE CORSO

Description
The Cane Corso Italiano is a medium-big size dog, strongly built but elegant, with powerful and long muscles, very distinguished, he expresses strength, agility and endurance. The general conformation is that of a mesomorphic animal whose body is longer than the height at the withers, harmonious as regards the form and disharmonious as regards the profile. The Muzzle is very broad and deep. The width of the muzzle must be almost equal to its length which reaches 3.4/10 of the total length of the head. Its depth is more than 50% the length of the muzzle. Due to the parallels of the muzzle sides and to the fullness and the width of the whole jaw, the anterior face of the muzzle is flat and square. The nasal bridge has a rectilinear profile and it is rather flat. The lower side profile of the muzzle is determined by the upper lips, the suborbital region shows a very slight chisel. The stop is very marked because of the very developed and bulging frontal sinuses and because of the prominent superciliary arches. The neck is slightly arched. The neck shape is of oval section, strong, very muscular. The body is compact, strong and very muscular. The skin is rather thick. The neck is practically without dewlap. The head mustn't have wrinkles. The pigment of the mucous membranes is black. The pigment of the soles and the nails must be dark. The coat is short hair but not smooth, with vitreous texture, shiny, adherent, stiff, very dense, with a light layer that becomes thicker in winter (but never crops up on the covering hair). Its average length is approx. 2/2,5 cm. On the withers, the rump, the back margin of the thighs and on the tail it reaches approx. 3 cm without creating fringes. On the muzzle the hair is very short, smooth, adherent and is not more than 1/1,5 cm. Color - Black, plumb-gray, slate, light gray, blue/gray, light fawn, deer fawn, dark fawn and tubby (very well marked stripes on different shades of fawn and gray). In the fawny and tubby subjects there is a black or gray mask only on the muzzle and shouldn't go beyond the eye line. A small white patch on the chest, on the feet tips and on the nose bridge is accepted.

Temperament


Very loyal, willing to please and quiet around the house. The Cane Corso is highly intelligent and very trainable. Active and even-minded, he is an unequalled watch and protection dog.  The Cane Corso Italiano is great with children in the family. Docile and affectionate with the owner. They are protective yet gentle. The Cane Corso has a very stable temperament. It makes an excellent guard dog and watchdog. It will not wonder from the home. They stick close to their masters. If necessary he becomes a terrible and brave protector of people, house and property. The Cane Corso is not a fighting dog. They were bred as working dogs for hundreds of years. Therefore they will not go out "looking" for a fight, but on the other hand they will not back down from other dogs who try to dominate them. The Cane Corso requires an experienced owner who knows how to display a natural authority over the dog. It can be aggressive with strangers and other dogs if not socialized or if it sees itself above humans in the pecking order. It should be carefully socialized when it is a pup. It is highly recommended that these dogs become fully obedience trained. If a Cane Corso is fully trained, with an owner who is firm, confident and consistent, setting rules the dog must follow and placing clear limits to what he can and cannot do, along with providing the proper daily mental and physical exercise, the Cane Corso will be an amenable companion. Learn what makes the canine animal tick and treat his breed accordingly. Suspicious of strangers, but wonderful with the family. A well balanced Corso will put up with strangers if the owners are present. When raised correctly, the dog should be submissive to all members of the family. Corso ears were originally cropped to help them ward off wolves while protecting livestock. Their ears are much more sensitive than the rest of their bodies. Generally, they're practically impervious to pain otherwise, so many Corso owners are often disappointed to find that electrical "invisible fence" containment systems don't deter their dogs.

Height, Weight
Height:  Males 24-27 inches (64-68 cm.) Females 23-25 inches (60-64 cm.)
Weight:  Males 99-110 pounds (45-50 kg.) Females 88-99 pounds (40-45 kg.)

Health Problems
This is a robust dog, with typical bone and joint problems of the giant breeds.

Living Conditions
The Cane Corso will do okay in an apartment if it gets enough exercise. They will be content to live outdoors provided they have adequate shelter.

Exercise
This very athletic breed needs a lot of regular exercise. They make excellent jogging companions, and if not jogged daily, should be taken on at least one long, brisk daily walk.
Life Expectancy
About 10-11 years.

Grooming
The Cane Corso does not require much grooming. Occasionally comb and brush to remove dead hair. This breed is a light shedder.

Origin
The Cane Corso Italiano is the original Cane Corso breed. It originated in Italy. Its direct ancestor is the "Canis Pugnax" (the old Roman Molossian) of which he is the light version employed in the hunting of large wild animals and also as an "auxiliary warrior" in battles. For years he has been a precious companion of the Italic populations. Employed as property, cattle and personal guard dog and used for hunting purposes too. In the past this breed was common all over Italy as an ample iconography and historiography testify. In the recent past he has found a excellent preservation area in Southern Italy, especially in Puglia, Lucania and Sannio. His name derives from the Latin "Cohors" which means "Guardian", "Protector". The Cane Corso was accepted into the AKC's miscellaneous class in 2008.

CAUCASIAN

Description
The Caucasian Ovcharka has moderate deep-set, dark eyes.  The ears are densely covered with hair for insulation.  The hips are slightly raised from the line of the back.  The tail is profusely covered with a long feathering of heavy hair.  The forelimbs are long, straight, and densely boned.  The paws are large and heavy, with hair between the toes, providing excellent insulation and protection.  The nose is black and prominent with well opened, large nostrils. The thick, dense, weather-resistant coat has profuse feathering and is especially effective at keeping out the cold.  Puppy coats are finer then adult coats.  Colors vary from gray, fawn, tan, pied, brindle and white.  The FCI prohibits brown dogs.  In its native country the Caucasian Ovtcharka's ears are cropped short.

Temperament
The Caucasian Ovcharka's original purpose was to protect livestock. The typical Caucasian Ovtcharka is assertive, strong-willed, and courageous.  Unless properly socialized and trained, the Caucasian Ovcharka may exhibit ferocious and unmanageable tendencies.  It is very brave, alert, strong and hardy.  It does not accept people it does not know and it has a powerful urge to defend.  Everything and everyone who belongs to the family, including children, cats, other dogs, etc, will be regarded by this dog as part of "its" family and will be respected and protected.  This dog should not be left alone with children, because if play becomes too rough, the Caucasian Ovtcharka my feel the need to protect your child, and may do it extensively.   It has no time for strangers, but it will greet family friends warmly.  It can be rather dominant towards other dogs it does not know.  Some German fanciers employ the dogs as foremost guardians and deterrents. This is not a dog for everyone. It requires an owner who knows how to display strong leadership and who is willing to spend a lot of time socializing and training. The objective in training this dog is to achieve a pack leader status. It is a natural instinct for a dog to have an order in their pack. When we humans live with dogs, we become their pack. The entire pack cooperates under a single leader. Lines are clearly defined and rules are set. Because a dog communicates his displeasure with growling and eventually biting, all other humans MUST be higher up in the order than the dog. The humans must be the ones making the decisions, not the dogs. That is the only way your relationship with your dog can be a complete success.

Height, weight
Height: 25-28 inches (64-72 cm.)
Weight: 99-154 pounds (45-70 kg.)

Health Problems
-

Living Conditions
The Caucasian Ovcharka is not recommended for apartment life.  They need space and will do best with at least a large yard.  Because its thick coat protects it so well, it can happily cope with living out-doors provided it has proper shelter.

Exercise
This breed of dog is best suited to a family with lots of space surrounding the home where it can safely run free in an open area. When not working as a livestock guard, they should be taken for a daily, long walk where the dog is made to heel. They should never be allowed to walk out in front of the person holding the lead, as in a dog's mind the leader leads the way, and that leader needs to be the human.

Life Expectancy
About 10-11 years

Grooming
There are two coat varieties: short and long. The coat of the long-haired variety requires frequent brushings, paying special attention to the spots where tangles may occur.  The short-haired variety needs less grooming, but should still be combed and brushed.

Origin
The Caucasian Ovcharka is a flock guardian developed from pre-historic molosser breeds in Caucasus by local herders.  Caucasians are used to protect sheep from predators and thieves.  These dogs always attract everybody’s attention due to outstanding working qualities and striking appearance.  The lack of organized kennel clubs and written standards partly explains why the Caucasian Ovtcharka varied in type from country to country and even from locale to locale.  For centuries, flocks of sheep have existed in Caucasia, the mountainous land mass between the Black and Caspian seas and neighboring Turkey and Iran.  Dogs similar to this superb guardian have  protected these sheep from both humans and animal predators for at least 600 years.  The Caucasian Ovcharka is most popular in Russia. "Ovtcharka" means "sheepdog" in Russian.  In Russia and other parts of the former Soviet Union, it is commonly shown at dog shows.  In Hungary, Poland and the Czech and Slovak Republics, extensive breeding programs are ensuring that it remains a popular dog, even though its original use as a sheep guardian is declining.  The Caucasian Ovtcharka arrived in East Germany in the late 1960's to serve as a border patrol dog, especially along the Berlin Wall.  In 1989, when the Wall came down, the 7,000-strong band of patrol dogs was dispersed .  Many of these dogs were given new homes with families throughout Germany.  Careful breeding in Germany safeguards the future of this cautious and independent dog.  It is likely that as its popularity increases, breeders will selectively breed out some of the most fierce protective personalities.

CHIHUAHUA

Description


The Chihuahua is a tiny toy sized dog. The body is longer than it is tall. The head is well rounded, apple in shape and the muzzle is short and pointed with a well defined stop. Puppies have a soft spot on the top of the skull called a "molera", which usually closes by adulthood. The large, round eyes are set well apart and are dark, ruby, and may be lighter in white dogs. The erect ears are large. Dewclaws may be removed. The tail is long, sickle-shaped, either curled over the back or to the side. The coat comes in both a short coat or a long, wavy or flat coat. All colors, both solid, marked or splashed are accepted. Colors include, but are not limited to, black, white, chestnut, fawn, sand, silver, sable, steel blue, black & tan and parti-color.

Temperament


The Chihuahua is a good companion dog. Courageous, extremely lively, proud and adventurous, they enjoy affection. Brave, cheerful and agile. Chihuahua's can be strong-willed without the proper human leadership. They are loyal and become attached to their owners. Some like to lick their owner's faces. Socialize them well. For some, they may be slightly difficult to train, but they are intelligent, learn quickly, and respond well to proper, firm but gentle (positive reinforcement) training. May be difficult to housebreak. Do not let the Chihuahua get away with things you would not allow a large dog to do (Small Dog Syndrome), such as jumping up on humans. While it may be cute for a 5 pound tiny dog to put his paws on your leg when you come home from work, it is allowing a dominant behavior. If you allow this little dog to be your pack leader they will developed many behavior issues, such as jealousy, aggression with other dogs and sometimes with humans, and will become undeniably suspicious of people except for their owner. When strangers are present, they will begin to follow their owner's every move, keeping as close as possible. A Chihuahua who is pack leader of their humans may snap at children. This breed is generally not recommended for children, not because they are not good with them, but because most people treat the Chihuahua differently than they would a large dog, causing them to become untrustworthy. Because of their size, this breed tends to be babied and things we humans clearly see as bad behavior for a large dog is looked over as cute with a small dog. Small dogs also tend to be walked less, as humans assume they get enough exercise just running around during the day. However a walk provides more than just exercise. It provides mental stimulation, and satisfies the migration instinct, all dogs have. Because of this, small breeds such as the Chihuahua tend to become snappish, yappy, protective, and untrustworthy with kids and humans they do not know. Chihuahua's who are their human's pack leader tend to be fairly dog-aggressive. An owner who realizes this and treats the Chihuahua no differently than they would a large breed, becoming a clear pack leader, will get a different, more appealing temperament out of this wonderful little dog, finding them to be good little child companions.

Height, Weight
Height: 6-9 inches (15-23 cm.)
Weight:  2-6 pounds (1-3 kg.)

Health Problems


Prone to rheumatism, slipped stifle, colds, and gum problems. Also corneal dryness and secondary glaucoma, do to their protruding eyes. Gains weight easily. Take caution around toxic products such as chocolate or fertilizer. This is a very small breed and it will not take much to poison them. Chihuahuas are often born via cesarean section because puppies are born with relatively large heads. Susceptible to fractures and other accidents in puppyhood. Some Chihuahuas have a molera, an unclosed section of the skull which can remain open throughout life. This makes the dog prone to injury. Has a tenancy to wheeze and snore, because of their small, short muzzles. Prone to stress, caused by the owners tendency to treat them like little babies. All dogs, even tiny ones, need to feel their owners are strong minded beings able to handle the entire pack.

Living Conditions
They are good little dogs for apartment life. The Chihuahua likes warm weather and dislikes the cold. They need space just like any other dog. Because they are small does not mean they can be kept in a vary small area.

Exercise
Although it is tempting to carry these dainty creatures about; these are active little dogs, who need a daily walk.  Play can take care of a lot of their exercise needs, however, as with all breeds, play will not fulfill their primal instinct to walk. Dogs who do not get to go on daily walks are more likely to display a wide array of behavior problems, as well as neurotic issues. They will also enjoy a good romp in a safe open area off lead, such as a large fenced in yard.

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, where it received it's name from the Mexican State of Chihuahua. It was only brought to Europe at the end of the nineteenth century. What breeds were used to make up the Chihuahua are unclear, but some think it originated from the Fennec Fox. The dogs were sacred to Pre-Columbian Indian nations and were also popular pets to the upper class. The dogs are prized for their size and are most valued to some fanciers when they weigh under 2-1/4 pounds (1.3 kg.).

CHINESE CRESTED DOG

Description


There are two distinct varieties of the Chinese Crested Dog, the "hairless" and the "powder puff". The hairless variety is just that, hairless, except for its feet, head and tail. The "powder puff" has a long, soft coat. The skin and coat can be any color, either solid, mixed or spotted all over. Both hairless and powder puff varieties can be born in the same litter. The head of the Chinese Crested is wedge-shaped when viewed from the top and the side. The muzzle has a slight stop, and tapers nicely into the cheeks. The color of the nose can be dark to light, depending on the skin and coat color. The almond shaped eyes and eye rims will have a color that matches the color of the dog. The large ears are not cropped and stand erect. Dewclaws may be removed.

Temperament


The most popular of the hairless breeds, the Chinese Crested are still very rare. These dogs are alert, charming, agile, and lovable. Affectionate, and playful with children. Children should be taught not to be rough with this breed as it is friendly, but it does not have the protective hair that other breeds have and can get injured easily. An entertaining and amusing companion. Do not baby this breed or you might cause them to be timid. Socialize them well, starting when they are a small puppy, exposing them to loud noises and outside activity. This intelligent dog has the ability to perform tricks. They are generally good with other pets. They are not barkers. Chinese Crested Dogs like to climb and dig holes. They tend to become very attached to their owners. These dogs enjoy companionship, and need constant human leadership. Do not let this wonderful breed fall into "Small Dog Syndrome" where they lack a human pack leader. It is easy to baby a small dog, however doing this can cause many unwanted behaviors. If your dog growls, guards objects, snaps or bites, the dog has been allowed to take over and be pack leader to the humans. These behaviors can be corrected as soon as the human starts displaying the proper leadership.

Height, Weight
Height: 12 inches (30cm.)
Weight: not over 10 pounds (4.5kg)

Health Problems


Gains weight easily, do not overfeed. Exposed skin on the hairless dogs need special care to prevent skin irritations. The hairless dogs do get sunburn and a good sunscreen should be used if the dog is going to be out in the sun. The hairless variety is prone to tooth loss and decay. Powder Puffs have healthier teeth. The Hairless variety has the ancient forward- pointing canine teeth or "tusks" as they are called, but usually these are the first teeth to fall out. A high percentage of Chinese Crested are allergic to wool and lanolin. Both the hairless and Powder Puff dogs are born in the same litter. Each hairless dog carries one gene for hairless and one gene for hair. Two hairless genes are fatal.

Living Conditions
Good for apartment life. They are fairly active indoors and will do okay without a yard. They should wear a sweater in cold weather.

Exercise
Although it is tempting to carry these dainty creatures about; these are active little dogs, who need a daily walk.  Play will take care of a lot of their exercise needs, however, as with all breeds, play will not fulfill their primal instinct to walk. Dogs who do not get to go on daily walks are more likely to display a wide array of behavior problems. They will also enjoy a good romp in a safe open area off lead, such as a large fenced in yard. Don't think that just because he is small he should be confined to a small space.

Life Expectancy
About 10-12 years.

Grooming
Chinese Crested are very clean, with no doggie odor. Power Puffs need a lot more grooming. Daily brushing of the Powder Puff's long, fine, double coat is recommended, taking extra care when the dog is shedding. The wooly undercoat becomes matted if neglected. Bathe the Hairless frequently and massage a little oil or cream into the skin to keep it supple. These dogs shed little to no hair and are great for allergy sufferers. The hairless variety is not prone to fleas. They can get ticks just like humans, but they are easy to see.
Origin


The Chinese Crested originated in Africa where they were called "African Hairless Terriers." Chinese trading ships stopped along the shores of Africa on their routes, and brought the dogs onboard their ships to hunt vermin. They renamed the dogs "Chinese Crested" and the name stuck. Ancient wandering Native American tribes (Aztecs) kept them as bedwarmers, and also ate them. Two Chinese Crested were first exhibited in 1885 at the Westminster Kennel Club Show in New York. However in 1965, due to the lack of a national club to support the breed and the dogs very small numbers, the AKC dropped their eligibility to be shown. The first American breed club was established in 1979 and they were recognized by the AKC in 1991. The stripper, Gypsy Rose Lee, used to breed Chinese Crested. The Chinese Crested is often shown in rare breed dog shows.

CHOW CHOW

Description


The Chow Chow is a large, stocky dog. The two most distinctive features of the Chow Chow are its blue-black tongue and its almost straight hind legs, which makes it walk rather stilted. The head is large and broad with a flat skull. The muzzle is broad and deep. There is a huge ruff behind the head, which gives it a lion like appearance. The black nose is large with well open nostrils. The teeth meet in a scissors bite. The small, erect ears are triangular in shape and round at the tip. The almond-shaped eyes are deep-set and dark in color. The chest is broad and deep. The tail is set high carried very close to the back. Dewclaws are sometimes removed. The profuse, dense, furry coat comes in two varieties, smooth coat and rough coat. The most common colors are solid red, black, blue, cinnamon and cream, but it can also come in tan, gray, or a rare white.  The coat sometimes has lighter or darker shades, but is never parti-colored.

Temperament


The Chow Chow is a well-mannered dog. Quite good with children. If they get to know cats and other household animals when they are young, they will get along with them when they are adults. Should be thoroughly socialized preferably when they are young. They need firm authority and training starting at puppyhood. Whether you are adopting a puppy or an adult dog, owners need to set the rules in which the dog must follow and stick to them. This is a very dominant breed who requires a dominant owner. The owner of this breed of dog should be a calm person who is naturally firm, confident, and consistent. With such a handler, the Chow Chow can develop well. The problems arise when the dog lives with owners who do not understand how to be, and stay in the alpha position. If you allow this dog to believe they are the boss of your house they will become stubborn, protective and sometimes down right unruly. Unless the dog senses the owners are very strong-minded, they will work hard at keeping their alpha position in your human pack. When this happens they do not consider themselves as being mean, but instinctually telling you in the way dogs communicate with one another that they get to decide when and how things are done. They will be self-willed to the point of obstinacy and may be over-protective.  When you have a Chow Chow who believes he is the ruler of humans, and strangers push themselves on this dog, he may become aggressive, telling the humans he would like to have his space. Space means a lot to a dog. It is respect in the dog world. Chow Chows who believe they are boss will often be a one-person dog, very loyal to their master, though he may act reserved, even with them. Alpha Chow Chows like to dominate other dogs. A Chow Chow who is not 100% convinced humans are the boss, will be harder to obedience train. The Chow will feel THEY need to be deciding what and when, to do things, not the human, as humans must listen to THEM. These are NOT Chow Chow traits, they are instinctual behaviors, resulting in meek human authority over the dog. If you would like to own a dog, make sure you, and the rest of your family know how to be alpha. All family members, and other humans around the dog must be higher in the pecking order, than the dog. Chow Chows can be quite a handful with passive owners, but take the very same dog and put him with an owner who has natural authority and he will be polite, patient and well rounded, making an excellent family companion.

One owner told me that their Chow can do tricks, and learns them quite easily at that. Here is a quote from the owner who has three children and three cats:

"My 8 year old white Chow performs a variety of "tricks," ranging from dancing on her hind legs on command to rolling over, and jumping from her hind legs into the air on command. She even knows the difference between "shake hands" and "shake," as in shake her mane to dry or fluff after a bath/brushing. After the first "trick" was learned at a very early age, she usually learns new activities through a process of three examples from her human friends, then she readily attempts the feats until successful. Her eagerness to learn from and please her two masters comes from her love of people. She loves being around people, even strangers. When threatened, or unsure of the circumstances she is facing, she quickly becomes protective of her family and home."

Height, Weight
Height: 18-22 inches (46-56 cm.)
Weight: 45-70 pounds (20-32 kg.)

Health Problems
They are prone to suffer eye irritation called entropion, caused by eyelid abnormality; this can be corrected with surgery. Also prone to hip dysplasia, stomach cancer, hot spots and ear infections. Because of their relatively short muzzles they often snore.

Living Conditions
The Chow Chow will do okay in an apartment if it is sufficiently exercised. It is relatively inactive indoors and a small yard is sufficient. Sensitive to heat, can live in or outdoors in cooler weather.

Exercise
Chow Chows can be lazy, but need to be taken for a daily walk.  Dogs who do not get to go on daily walks are more likely to display a wide array of behavior problems.

Life Expectancy
About 15 years

Grooming
Regular brushings of the long coat is important to maintain the lifted, standing-out look. This breed is a seasonal heavy shedder and extra care is needed when the dog is shedding its dense undercoat. Dry shampoo when necessary.
Origin


The exact origin of the Chow Chow is unknown, but we do know that it is a very old breed. The oldest known dog fossils, dated back to several million years ago, are very similar in structure to the Chow Chow. Pictures on Chinese pottery which looked like the Chow Chow date back as far back as 206 BC. The Chow Chow may be related to the Chinese Shar-Pei, as both breeds origins point to China and both have the distinctive trait of the black and blue mouth. It may also have contributed to the ancestry of the Keeshond, Samoyed, Norwegian Elkhound, and the Pomeranian. The Chow Chow was used by the Chinese as a working dog doing many different tasks such as a hunter of wolves, sable and pheasant, for herding, cart and sled puller, boat guard, and protection of the home. The dogs served the Chinese much more then just as a working dog. The dog's fur was used in making human coats and they were and still are also eaten, considered a delicacy. In the late 1800s Chows were first bought to England by merchants. The name "Chow Chow" probably originated from the pidgin English word "chow-chow," a general term for all of the odds and ends bought back from the far East. Some of the Chow Chow's talents are watchdog and guarding.

CLUMBER SPANIEL

Description


The Clumber Spaniel is a heavy-boned, low to the ground dog with short legs. The head is massive with a broad, deep muzzle, a defined stop and a heavy brow. The large nose comes in shades of brown ranging from beige, rose and cherry. The teeth meet in a scissors bite. The wide chest is deep and the front legs are straight. The deep-set eyes are dark amber in color. The flews hang over the lower jaw. The hanging ears are triangular in shape with rounded tips, set low on the head. The neck is thick, heavy, and feathered at the throat. The feathered tail is either docked or kept natural. Note: docking tails is illegal in most parts of Europe. The feathered coat is soft to the touch, flat, dense and straight. The coat is predominantly white, with lemon or orange markings.

Temperament


The Clumber Spaniel is described as a docile, sweet, intelligent and pleasant dog. Among the most low-key and easygoing of the hunting breeds. They are very affectionate, well-behaved, and not very active when mature. Clumbers will get along with other dogs and cats as well as other household animals if they are raised with them. If they sense the owners are meek, or passive they can become a bit willful. They are not barkers. Clumbers are playful and usually trustworthy with children of the family. Socialize them well the help them adjust to making friends with strangers. They do not respond well to harsh discipline, but they do need a calm, firm, confident owner who knows how to communicate the rules. This dog has a good memory and likes to do things to please their master, therefore training is not usually difficult. Clumber spaniels can be used as hunting dogs. They prefer to hunt for pheasant and partridges, take naturally to retrieving, and are good water dogs. Make sure you have good chew toys for them to chew on.

Height, Weight
Height: 16-20 inches (41-51 cm.)
Weight: 55-85 pounds (25-39 kg.)

Health Problems


Some are prone to entropion, cataracts, panosteitis (juvenile lameness), hip dysplasia and dry eyes. They tend to snore, wheeze and drool. Clumbers are prone to skin and flea allergies. Likes to chew, take care not to let them swallow foreign objects. Tends to gain weight easily, do not over feed.

Living Conditions
Clumber Spaniels will do okay in an apartment if they are sufficiently exercised. They are very inactive indoors and a small yard will be sufficient. Likes cooler weather.

Exercise
Young Clumbers grow very rapidly and are extremely active. As adults they slow down considerably. They need to be taken for a daily long walk. Good retrievers they love playing fetch, however chasing after a ball cannot be their only form of exercise. Daily walks are very important to the dogs mental health. When walking your Clumber be sure to make them heel on the lead, never in front as instinct tells a dog the leader leads the way, and that leader needs to be the humans. Take caution on hot weather and pavement. This breed is a good swimmer.

Life Expectancy
About 10-12 years.

Grooming
The coat must be groomed regularly with a brush and comb. Some skilled trimming of the coat is required. The ears and eyes need to be cleaned and inspected regularly. Some of these dogs develop an irritation of the ear but there are special lotions which can provide relief for this. If there is too much hair under the ears, clip it before the next overall trim. This breed is a heavy shedder.

Origin


The Basset Hound, Alpine Spaniel and St. Bernard may have contributed to the ancestry of the Clumber Spaniel. The Clumber's early history is not well documented and there is no proof, but some say it originated in 18th century France around 1768 by one of the dukes of Noailles. Threatened by the Revolution, he transferred his dogs to England, close to his family, the duke of Newcastle. Some say it is here the Clumber was perfected and was successfully presented at its first show in the nineteenth century. It is said that several British monarchs have favored the Clumber, including Prince Albert (Queen Victoria's consort), King Edward VII and his son, King George V. The name Clumber derives from the Duke of Newcastle's 3,800 acre estate Clumber Park in Nottinghamshire, England. The name Clumber itself most likely derives from the ancient name, "Clun" of a local river. Examples of vintage paintings depict white and orange dogs which look like Clumbers with sometimes a little less bone and smaller heads being used for hunting expeditions. Though early standards and actual written descriptions mention a preference for the color lemon. The Clumber Spaniel is the heaviest of the Spaniels, and is a slow, quiet hunting dog able to work in both packs or alone. They have good stamina, fine noses and do very well in dense underbrush. They have been used to hunt partridge, and pheasant and can be trained to retrieve. The breed was said to have arrived in Canada in 1848 and made its way into the United States. The Clumber Spaniel was first recognized by the AKC in 1884 and was one of the first 9 breeds recognized by the club. Clumbers are pretty rare and hard to find.

COLLIE ROUGH

n.a.

COMONDOR

n.a.

DACHSHUND

Description


There are three varieties of Dachshund: the short-haired, the wired-haired, and the long-haired. With each of these varieties there are three sizes. (See Height and Weight.) The Dachshund's body is longer than it is tall, muscular with short legs. It has an elongated head and a slight convex skull, arched with protruding eyebrows. The muzzle is long The jaw is robust with non-pendent lips. The teeth should meet in a scissors bite. The almond shaped eyes are dark red or brown-black. The mobile ears are hanging long on its cheeks. The body has a strong protruding sternum and a moderately retracted abdomen. The tail is carried in line with its back. The short-haired Dachshund's coat should be shiny, sleek and uniform.

Dachshunds have a wide color variety. They are as follows.
Solid colors are as follows: black, red (from strawberry blond to deep auburn), chocolate (brown), isabella (tan or fawn), creme (blond with no trace of red, from golden blond to platinum,the lighter the better) and blue (gray). In the wirehaired variety, creme is referred to as wheaton.

Bi-color dachshunds may be black and tan, black and creme, chocolate and tan, chocolate and creme, blue and tan, or blue and creme. In these combinations, the former color is the base color, and the tan or creme appears on the face and points. Sable is a red base coat with a black overlay. In the wirehaired variety, there is also wild boar, unique in that the hair shaft itself is bicolored red and black.

Patterns and tricolors:
Brindle-brindles should be striped over the entire body and may be seen on any of the above colors.
Dapple-the dappling is presented as patches of lighter color on a darker base color. This can result in a tricolored dachshund. example-black with tan points and silver dappling.If the dappling occurs in the eye, one or both eyes may be blue. Double dapples only occur when both sire and dam are dappled, and results in adding large areas of white to the dapple pattern. Triple dapples occur when a double dapple is bred to a dapple, resulting in even larger areas of white. There have been genetic defects attributed to double and triple dapple breeding.

Piebald-piebalds can be bi-colored or trip-colored. They have a white body with patches of one or two solid colors, as in red on white, or black and tan on white. The patches may range from a few spots to covering over 50 percent of the body. There may be ticking throughout the white areas, or they may be solid white.

In the event of cross breeding patterns, as in dapple to piebald or brindle to piebald, the solid patches display the dapple or brindle pattern. Registry depends on the kennel club the dog is registered with, but in the case of only one pattern being registered, the dog should be registered as piebald.

Temperament


The Dachshund is curious, clever, lively, affectionate, proud, brave, and amusing. Devoted to their family, but can be slightly difficult to train and housebreak, but not impossible. Dachshunds travel well. This little dog needs an owner who understands how to be his pack leader or he will take over the house, and begin to try and tell the owner what to do. If the dog is allowed to take over, many behavior problems will arise, such as, but not limited to, guarding furniture, separation anxiety, food, toys or other objects, snapping, biting, and obsessive barking. They will become unpredictable with children and adults they do not know. If it gets really bad, they may become unpredictable with their owners. They are usually recommended for older, considerate children, simply because most owners do not display proper pack leadership to small dogs, causing moderate to severe protectiveness. A behavior that can change if the humans start being their pack leader. If they do get the proper leadership, they can get along well with children. This breed has an instinct to dig. They are generally okay with other pets, however, once again, without proper leadership from their humans, they can be jealous, irritable, obstinate and very quick to bite. Sometimes refusing to be handled. If you allow your little dog to take over your house, the dog will try his hardest to keep all of his humans in line. A weight which should not be placed on any dog's shoulders, especially one as sweet as a little dog like the Dachshund. These negative traits are not Dachshund traits, they are small dog syndrome traits. Meaning, most owners treat their small dogs like babies, rather than giving them leadership. Rules they need to follow along with limits they are, and are not allowed to do, which all dogs instinctually crave. Dachshunds who have human leadership along with a daily pack walk are wonderful family companions, with excellent temperaments.

Height, Weight


There are three varieties of Dachshund, the short-haired, the wired-haired, and the long-haired. According to AKC standard, there are two sizes, Standard and Miniature. Unlike the AKC, Europe also recognizes the Toy variety.

Standard: Height 8-11 inches (20-27cm.); Weight- over 11 pounds (4.9kg.) at the age of 12 months.
Miniature:  Height up to 5-7 inches (13-18 cm.);  Weight 11 pounds (4.9kg.) or less at the age of 12 months.
Toy: Height Up to 12 inches (30cm.); Weight 8 pounds (3.5kg.) at age 12 months.

Note: The unofficial terms such as, tweenie, dwarf, toy, teacup or micro-mini Dachshund is not an AKC recognized size variation, however some breeders are using these terms and breeding for a smaller dog. Other unofficial nicknames people have labeled this breed are Wiener Dog, Little Hot Dog, Hotdog Dog.

Tweenie: Weight 12-18 (5-8 kg.) pounds at age 12 months.

Health Problems
Prone to spinal disc problems (Dachshund paralysis), urinary tract problems, heart disease, and diabetes. Dachshunds have a tendency to become overweight and lazy. This is a serious health risk, putting added strain on the back.

Living Conditions
Good for apartment living. They are fairly active indoors and will do okay without a yard.
Exercise
These are active dogs with surprising stamina; they need to be walked daily. They will also enjoy sessions of play in the park or other safe open areas. Be careful, however, when pedestrians are about because Dachshunds are more likely to be stepped on than more visible dogs. They should be discouraged from jumping, as they are prone to spinal damage.

Life Expectancy
About 12-15 years.

Grooming
Long-haired require daily combing and brushings; wire-haired need professional trimming twice a year, and smooth-haired require regular rubdown with a damp cloth. This breed is an average shedder.
Origin


The Dachshund originated in Germany in the early 1600s. Bred to hunt small game such as badger and rabbit, the Dachshund has shortened legs to hunt and follow these animals to ground inside the burrows where they could fight the prey to the death. "Dachs" is the word for badger. Smaller Dachshunds where bred to hunt hare and stoat. Dachshunds have many "terrier" characteristics. They are versatile and courageous dogs and have been known to take on foxes and otters too. The breeds population dwindled during World War l, but dogs were imported from Germany to the USA and the gene pool once again increased. The Dachshund was recognized by the AKC in 1885.

DALMATIAN

Description


The Dalmatian is a large, strong, muscular dog. The skull is about as wide as it is long, and flat on the top. The muzzle is about the same length as the top of the skull. The stop is moderate but well defined. The nose can be either black, brown (liver), or blue or a dark gray that looks like black. The teeth meet in a scissors bite. The medium sized round eyes are either brown or blue or a combination of both. The ears are set high, hanging down, gradually tapering to a rounded tip. The chest is deep. The base of the tail is level with the topline and tapers to the tip. The feet are round with arched toes. Toenails are white and/or black in black spotted dogs and brown and/or white in liver spotted dogs. The short coat has fine dense hairs. The symmetrical coat is predominantly white with clearly defined round spots. The spots can be black or brown (liver) which are the preferred colors in the show ring, but can also be, lemon, dark blue, tri colored, brindled, solid white, or sable. Not all of these colors are accepted into the show ring, but they do occur in the breed. The more defined and well distributed the markings are, the more valued the dog is to the show ring. Puppies are born completely white and the spots develop later.

Temperament


Dalmatians were bred to run under or along-side of horse-drawn carriages and therefore have a vast amount of stamina and energy.  They do not like to just sit around all day with nothing to do. They are playful, happy, easy going and very dedicated. The Dalmatian needs a lot of leadership along with human companionship in order to be happy. They will not do well left out in the yard all day and have been known to dig crater size holes when done so. The Dalmatian enjoys playing with children, but if they do not receive enough mental and physical exercise they may become high-strung, and too excitable for a small child. This build up of energy causes their minds to become unstable and they can become timid without enough socialization. They get along well with other pets, but without proper human to dog alpha communication where the human clearly tells the dog that he is not in charge and fighting is an unwanted behavior, they may become aggressive with strange dogs. Quite intelligent, but can be willful if they sense their owners are in the slightest bit meek or passive, and or if the owner is not properly communicating with the dog. Generally does well with firm, consistent training. The Dalmatian is trainable to a high degree of obedience. They can be trained for defense and are good watchdogs. Half of the people who adopt a Dalmatian puppy do not keep them past the first year. Young Dalmatians are very energetic, and need a tremendous amount of leadership and exercise. If you give them what they instinctually need, daily walks where the dog is made to heel beside or behind the human, never in front of the person holding the lead, and very stern, but not harsh leadership they will make a wonderful pet and will calm down after a few years. People who keep them long enough to get past their active stage tend to be very pleased. If you are thinking about adopting a Dalmatian puppy be sure you have the time, are authority driven and have the energy for them. If you cannot provide this for them they will become very high strung, hard to manage and destructive. If you are a very active person who has the time, and knows what it means to be a pack leader then a Dalmatian may be right for you.

Height, Weight
Height: Dogs 22-24 inches (50-60cm.) Bitches 20-22 inches (50-55cm.)
Weight: about 55 pounds (25 kg.)

Health Problems


Deafness in this breed is relatively high, about 10-12% are born deaf. Dalmatian puppies should be BAER-tested for deafness at about 6 weeks old, and totally deaf puppies should be spayed or neutered. While the breeding of deaf puppies should be avoided, it is very possible to raise a well adjusted deaf dog. Prone to urinary stones, as uric acid levels in Dalmatians are in general higher than in any other breed, sometimes causing urinary blockage. Also prone to skin allergies, such as synthetic fibers in carpets and upholstery.

Living Conditions
A Dalmatian  is not an ideal dog for apartment dwellers unless it can be taken out for a brisk walk or run several times a day. They are very active indoors and will do best with at least an average-sized yard. Not suited to living outside in cold climates.

Exercise
This is a very energetic dog with enormous stamina. They need to be taken on daily, long, brisk walks or jogs where the dog is made to heel beside or behind the human holding the lead. Never in front, as instinct tells a dog that the leader leads the way, and that leader needs to be the human. In addition, it needs plenty of opportunity to run, preferably off the leash in a safe area. If these dogs are allowed to get bored, and are not walked or jogged daily, they can become destructive and start to display a wide array of behavioral problems. They love to run!

Life Expectancy
About 10-12 years.
Litter Size
Often large, not uncommon to have up to 15 pups in one litter.

Grooming
The Dalmatian sheds all year round but does so profusely twice a year. Brush frequently to help manage the constant shedding. They do not have a doggy odor and are said to be clean and even avoid puddles. Bathe only when necessary.

Origin


There is total disagreement about the origin of this breed. Spotted dogs are known throughout history in Africa, Europe and Asia. The breed may be related to the Pointer. Traces of spotted dogs are found in Egyptian bas-reliefs and Hellenic friezes, so it certainly is an ancient breed. In 1700 a dog known as the Bengal pointer, similar to the Dalmatian, existed in England, calling into question the Dalmatians Yugoslavian origin. Some claim the Dalmatian is a Croatian breed. Efforts to have it recognized as a Croatian breed had been rejected, up until 1993, when the FCI did finally recognize the Croatian roots of the Dalmatian dog, although they continue to deny Croatia standard patronage rights over the breed. In the Middle Ages it was used as a hound. The breed became popular as a carriage dog in the 1800's. They trotted beside and among the horses and carriages, very reliably following their masters, guarding the carriages and horses while the master was occupied elsewhere. Very hardy with great stamina they were able to easily keep up whether its master was on foot, on horseback, or in the carriage. The versatile Dalmatian has seen many uses, such as a mascot for firemen, war sentinel, draft dog, circus performer, vermin hunter, fire-apparatus follower, bird dog, trail hound, retriever, shepherd and as a guard dog.

DEERHOUND

n.a.

DEUTSCHE BRACKE

n.a.

DOBERMANN

n.a.

DOGO ARGENTINO

Description


The Dogo Argentino is also called the Argentinian Mastiff or Argentine Dogo. It is a large, well muscled dog. The deep-set chest is wide. There is an abundance of skin on the muscular neck. The head is massive with a rounded shape from front to the back. The muzzle concaves upwards slightly, with a slight stop and is about the same length as the skull. The jaws are strong. The teeth should meet in a scissors bite. The nose is black. The eyes are set well apart, and are dark brown, light brown or hazel in color. The rims of the eyes should be pink or black. The ears are set high and are usually cropped to make them stand erect, and triangular in shape. The thighs are very muscular with a short hock. There are usually no dewclaws. The thick tail is long and carried naturally low reaching the hock. The thick, glossy coat is white and has no undercoat. While not accepted in all clubs, sometimes the Dogo Argentino can have a black spot on the head known as "pirata". This trait in the Dogo´s coat is accepted by Federacion Cinologica Argentina.

Temperament


The Argentine Dogo is a loyal dog who makes a great guardian of the home and family. Playful and very good with children, giving kisses and cuddling. Highly intelligent and powerful, Dogos are easy to train if you are consistent, using loving but firm authority. The Argentine Dogo is not a breed for everyone. With the right owners even the more dominant Dogos can be submissive towards all humans and other animals. This breed needs someone who understands how to display leadership. Humans who are firm, confident, and consistent, this breed needs rules he must follow and limits to what he is and is not allowed to do. The objective in training this dog is to achieve a pack leader status. It is a natural instinct for a dog to have an order in their pack. When we humans live with dogs, we become their pack. The entire pack cooperates under a single leader. Lines are clearly defined. You and all other humans MUST be higher up in the order than the dog. That is the only way your relationship can be a success. When you put this breed with a meek or passive owner, problems may arise as the dog will feel he needs to, "save his pack" and run the show. Adult Dogos can be aggressive with other dogs however, the Dogo does not usually provoke the confrontation but may if he senses another dog who is unstable. The breed needs an owner who can tell the Dogo it is not his job to put another dog in his place. They are good with other pets if they are raised with them from puppyhood. This white mastiff needs early socialization with other animals. It also requires early obedience training.

Height, Weight
Height:  24-27 inches (61-69cm)
Weight:  80-100 pounds (36-45kg)

Health Problems
*

Living Conditions
This breed will do okay in an apartment if it is sufficiently exercised and does best with at least an average-sized yard. Be sure to bring the Dogo inside when temperatures drop below freezing.

Exercise
Give this dog plenty of exercise. They need to be taken on a daily, long walk or jog.

Life Expectancy
About 10-12 years.

Grooming
The single white coat is very easy to care for. Brush occasionally. Keep nails trimmed. They have no doggy odor. This breed is an average shedder.

Origin


In the 1920's the Argentine Dogo was developed in Argentina by two Argentinians, Dr. Antonio Nores Martinez and his brother Agustin. The brothers wanted an ideal companion dog that was also a good pack hunter and guardian. The breeds that were used in the development were the Great Pyrenees, Irish Wolfhound, Pointer, Great Dane, Dogue de Bordeaux, Boxer, Spanish Mastiff, Bulldog, Bull Terrier and a now extinct mastiff-type breed called the Dog of Cordoba. The result was a bullish, fearless hunter who also had great stamina. The white coat deflected the heat rather than absorb it. Unfortunately the breed earned a bad reputation in Britain when people started using the dogs for dog fighting, which is an activity still popular in many parts of South America and elsewhere. Rather than go after the dog fighters Britain has enacted a national legislation to control dogs in public. The Dangerous Dogs Act which came about in 1991 totally bans the three breeds Fila Brazileiro, Dogo Argentino and Japanese Tosa. A fourth breed, the American Pit Bull Terrier, is allowed but is heavily restricted. The dogs must be registered, neutered, tattooed, microchipped and owners have to carry insurance. The dog cannot be bred or imported and when in public it must be muzzled, leashed and handled by a person over 16 years of age at all times. This is a real shame. When properly raised these are all great dogs. A dog is what the master makes of it. Not all breeds are for everyone. People teach these dogs to fight giving them a bad name. Banning the breed is not the way to solve the problem. Some of the Argentine Dogo's talents are hunting, tracking, watchdog, guarding, police work, narcotics detection, military work, guide for the blind, competitive obedience, and schutzhund.

DOGO CANARIO

Description
The Presa Canario has a powerful, square head that is nearly as wide as it is long. The muzzle is broad. The chest is deep and broad. The rump is slightly raised. This breed has thick skin, dense bones and powerful muscles and a massive head with a large jaw. The ears are usually cropped. Colors include fawn and various brindles, white markings are sometimes seen.

Temperament
The Presa Canario requires a very dominant owner who understands the alpha nature in canines. No member of the family can be uncomfortable around the dog. Canaries make outstanding guard dogs. Just their appearance is a deterrent not to mention their ability to confront any intruder. In the wrong hands this dog can be dangerous, but with the right owner it can make a nice, devoted companion. This is not a breed for first time dog owners. Owners must take their dogs for daily pack walks to satisfy their migration instincts. The dog must not walk in front of the human who is holding the lead, as the pack leader goes first. The dog must walk beside or behind the human. The objective in training this dog is to achieve a pack leader status. It is a natural instinct for a dog to have an order in their pack. When we humans live with dogs, we become their pack. The entire pack cooperates under a single leader. Lines are clearly defined and rules are set. Because a dog communicates his displeasure with growling and eventually biting, all other humans MUST be higher up in the order than the dog. The humans must be the ones making the decisions, not the dogs. That is the only way your relationship with your dog can be a complete success.

Height, Weight
Weight: 80-130 pounds (36-59 kg.)
Height: 21-25 inches (55-65 cm.)

Health Problems
-

Living Conditions
The Presa Canario will do okay in an apartment if it is sufficiently exercised. They are relatively inactive indoors and will do best with at least an average-sized yard.

Exercise
This breed needs to be taken on a daily, long walk. Do not allow this dog to walk out in front of the handler while out on a walk. Pack leader goes first and the Presa must understand that all humans are above him in the pecking order. The Presa will thrive if given a job to do.

Life Expectancy
9-11 years

Grooming
The short, rough coat is easy to groom. Brush with a firm bristle brush and wipe over with a piece of toweling or chamois for a gleaming finish. Bathe or dry shampoo when necessary. This breed is an average shedder.

Origin
The Presa Canario ancestry probably includes the now extinct naive and indigenous Bardino Majero, crossed with imported English Mastiffs. It was developed in the Canary Islands in the 1800's specifically for dog fighting. At one time dog fighting was a common and popular entertainment in most European countries, and breeds were developed specially for their tenacity and endurance. In some countries, such as Ireland, fights were staged in open fields, but more often, as was the case in the Canary Islands, fighting took place in rings or pits. With the outlawing of dogfighting on the island and the introduction of foreign dogs such as the German Shepherd Dog, by the 1960s the breed was nearly extinct. It was revived by the American veterinarian Dr. Carl Semencic.

DOGUE DE BORDEAUX - FRENCH MASTIFF

Description


The Dogue de Bordeaux also called the French Mastiff and sometimes called the Bordeaux Bulldog is a relatively short, stocky mastiff. The wrinkled head is massive, heavy and broad. Males can have a head circumference of 27-30 inches (68-75cm). The muzzle is somewhat short (1/3 the total length of the head), wide, powerful and thick, with a pronounced stop. The nose is large with wide-open nostrils, color depends on the mask of the dog. The teeth meet in an underbite. The upper lips hang thickly down over the lower jaw. The thick skin on the neck is loose, forming a noticeable dewlap. The eyes are hazel to dark brown depending on the color of the dog and are set wide apart. The ears are small, hanging down, in proportion to the dog and are darker in color. The tail is thick at the base tapering to a point. The chest is deep, broad reaching lower than the elbows. The legs are muscular. The coat is short and soft with loose fitting skin. Coat colors include various shades of fawn to mahogany with a darker red or black mask around and under the nose including the lips and eye rims. There are sometimes white markings on the chest and tips of the toes.

Temperament
The Bordeaux has a good and calm temperament. It is extremely loyal, patient and devoted to his family. Fearless and confrontational with strangers, he is a first class watch and guard dog. Socialize very well with other animals, preferably starting from an early age to avoid them being aggressive with other dogs. The Dogue de Bordeaux snores and drools. Despite his fearsome appearance, the Dogue de Bordeaux is gentle with children and family members. However this is a powerful animal, and is not suitable for an inexperienced dog owner. The objective in training this dog is to achieve a pack leader status. It is a natural instinct for a dog to have an order in their pack. When we humans live with dogs, we become their pack. The entire pack cooperates under a single leader. Lines are clearly defined and rules are set. You and all other humans MUST be higher up in the order than the dog. That is the only way your relationship can be a success. This breed needs a calm, but firm owner who displays a natural authority over the dog. One who is confident and consistent.

Height, Weight
Height:  23-30 inches (58-75cm)
Weight:  120-145 pounds (54.4-65.2kg)

Health Problems
Most are healthy, but the breed can be prone to hip dysplacia. There are also cases of epilepsy, heartproblems and hyperkeratosis. Dams often have to have cesareans.

Living Conditions
This breed will do okay in an apartment if it is sufficiently exercised. They are very inactive indoors and will do okay without a yard.

Exercise
Needs lots of exercise. They need to be taken on a daily, long walk. Dogs who lack in mental and or physical exercise can develop behavior issues.
Litter Size
Often small.

Life Expectancy
About 10-12 years.

Grooming
Very little is needed. This breed is an average shedder.

Origin


There are numerous theories about the origin the Dogue de Bordeaux. It may be descended from the Bulldog, Tibetan Mastiff and from the Greek and Roman Molossus, from mastiffs brought to Europe by the Alans, from the dogs of Aquitaine or from Spanish dogs from Burgos. At the end of the middle ages, the dog was used as a cattle driver and personal bodyguard. Lots of Dogues died during the French Revolution. After the war number rose again. Raymond Triquet and his French Dogue de Bordeaux Club saved the breed. The Dogue de Bordeaux is now thoroughly established in France and gaining popularity in other countries. The breed has served as a war dog, flock guardian, cattle herder, guard dog, trained to bait bulls, bears, and jaguars, and a hunter of boars. The breed was recognized by the AKC in 2008.

DRATHAR

n.a.

ENGLISH BULLDOG

Description


The English Bulldog is a wide, medium sized, compact dog, with short legs. The body and head are massive with extra skin on both the skull and forehead falling in folds. The cheeks extend to the sides of the eyes. The muzzle is wide, short and pug with a broad, deep stop. The black nose is broad with large nostrils. The dark eyes are deep set. The rose ears are small, thin and set high on the head. The jaws are massive, very broad, and square with hanging upper lips. The teeth should have an under bite. The tail is either straight or screwed and carried low. The short, flat coat is straight, smooth and glossy. Coat colors include red brindle, and other shades of brindle, solid white, solid red, fawn, fallow, piebald, pale yellow or washed-out red or white or a combination of these colors.

Temperament
Although the English Bulldogs appearance can be somewhat intimidating, it is among the gentlest of dogs.  Just the same it will see off any intruder, and few would risk a close encounter with a dog brave enough to bait a bull.  It is described as a very affectionate and dependable animal, gentle with children, but known for its courage and its excellent guarding abilities. Bullheaded and determined, this breed can be very persistent. They do not give up easily. Bulldogs are very much a peoples dog seeking out human attention and loving every bit it can get!!  A lot of human attention is required for the breed's happiness.  Some English Bulldogs can be a bit dominating and need an owner who knows how to display strong leadership and understands alpha canine behavior.   A Bulldog who understands it's *place* in the human pack, is nice to, and reliable with all people. This breed is good with family pets, but some can be combative with strange dogs if they do not see themselves as followers in their pack.  When Bulldogs are young, they are full of energy, but slow down as they get older. They snore very loudly, most have drool and slobber tendencies and are messy eaters. Bulldogs who display guarding, behaviors, such as guarding furniture, food, toys, or other spots in the house, or who are dog aggressive, do not have humans who are being the dogs pack leader. This behavior only happens when dogs are allowed to take over. These behaviors can be corrected when the owners start displaying the proper leadership. Dogs who feel they need to run the home are not as happy as dogs who know they are human followers, as it is very stressful for a dog to need to keep "his" humans in line.

Height, Weight
Height: about 12-16 inches (31-40 cm.) (there is no prescribed height, but shorter Bulldogs are more prized when being shown)
Weight: Dogs 53-55 pounds (24-25kg.) Bitches 49-51 pounds (22-23kg.)

Health Problems
Prone to breathing problems; some have small windpipes as well. Also poor eyesight, very susceptible to heat stroke in warm weather or hot rooms and cars. Very cold sensitive. Puppies often delivered by caesarian section because of their broad heads. Birth defects are common in some lines. Susceptible to skin infections, hip and knee problems. Prone to flatulence, especially when fed any other type of food other than their regular dog food.

Living Conditions
The English Bulldog is good for apartment life. They are very inactive indoors and will do okay without a yard. This breed is an indoor dog. Bulldogs do best in temperate climates as the breed can chill easily in cold weather and have trouble cooling off in very hot weather.

Exercise


The English Bulldog needs to be taken on a daily walk to fulfill their primal canine instinct to migrate. Those individuals who do not get this need met are more likely to have behavior issues. While out on the walk the dog must be made to heel beside or behind the person holding the lead, as in a dog's mind the leader leads the way, and that leader needs to be the human. Teach them to enter and exit all door and gateways after the human. English Bulldogs who are in good shape are capable of moving very quickly for short periods of time.

Life Expectancy
An average of 8 years. Some live longer while others live shorter lives.

Litter Size
4 - 5 puppies - As a result of this breed's large head they are prone to needing a caesarian section

Grooming
The smooth, fine, short-haired coat is easy to groom. Comb and brush with a firm bristle brush, and bathe only when necessary. Wipe the face with a damp cloth every day to clean inside the wrinkles. This breed is an average shedder.
Origin


The English Bulldog originated in the British Isles, descended from the ancient Asiatic mastiff. The dog was given the name "bull" because of its use in bull baiting and for their robust look of a little bull. They were aggressive, ferocious and courageous with the power to attack full grown bulls, which they did in arena combat before the practice was banned by law in the 19th century. The bulldogs would attack from the bottom up going underneath the bull and aiming for the neck, making it hard for the bull to fight back. Today's bulldog has a very different temperament from those of his ancestors, but still retains a strong determination.

ENGLISH COCKER SPANIEL

Description


The English Cocker Spaniel is a medium-sized, compact dog. The head is arched and looks slightly flattened when viewed from the side. The muzzle is the same length as the head with a defined stop. The nose is black or brown depending on the coat color. The teeth meet in a scissors or level bite. The medium-sized, oval eyes are dark brown or hazel in liver colored dogs. The ears are set low and hanging long covered in silky, or wavy hair. The chest is deep and the front legs are straight. The topline is almost level, sloping slightly from the front to the back of the dog. The tail is usually docked. Note: docking the tail is illegal in most parts of Europe. The cat-like feet have tight arched toes. The hairs are medium length on the body but short and fine on the head. There is feathering on the ears, chest, abdomen and legs. Coat colors come in solid black, liver or red or parti coloring of white with black, liver or red markings or ticking. Many colors are admissible, but on solid color dogs white is acceptable only on the chest. There are sometimes tan markings on black, liver or parti-colored dogs. There are two types of English Cocker: field and show. The show types have longer coats than the field/working types.

Temperament


The English Cocker Spaniel is an intelligent, sturdy and robust dog. Lively, perky and lovable, pleasant, gentle, playful and affectionate, they are excellent with children. They are average barkers, and are willing and happy to listen to their owners. A superior companion dog. Generally an outgoing breed, taking to strangers easily, but some individuals can be reserved without enough socialization. This breed can do well with family cats. There are two types, field lines and show lines (bench). Field types are bred for hunting and field trial work. The bench type are bred for conformation shows. Both types are energetic and need daily exercise, but field lines have a higher energy level, and need even more exercise. The dominancy level in this breed varies widely even within the same litter. They are sensitive to the tone of one's voice and will not listen if they sense they are stronger minded than their owner, however they will also not respond well to harsh discipline. If you are not the type of person who can display a natural air of calm, but firm authority, then be sure to choose a pup who is more submissive. The temperament of both show and field lines vary widely, depending upon how the owners treat the dog and how much and what type of exercise they provide. Those individuals who are not taken for daily walks, allowed to believe they are alpha over humans and or who are treated like little humans with four legs end up with a varying degree of behavior and or temperament issues. Those individuals who are given consistent structure, calm, stern authority, with rules made clear and daily walks where the dog is made to heel beside or behind the human have the best temperaments.

Height, weight
Height: Dogs 15-17 inches (38-43cm.) Bitches 14-16 inches (36-41 cm)
Weight: Dogs 28-34 pounds (13-16kg) Bitches 26-32 pounds (12-15kg)

Health Problems
Prone to ear infections. During the summer, the ears should be checked often. Hanging close to the ground as they do, they can become host to ticks or burr, often the cause of deafness. Gains weight easily, do not overfeed.

Living Conditions
English Cocker Spaniels will do okay in an apartment if it is sufficiently exercised. They do best with at least an average-sized yard.

Exercise
The English Cocker Spaniel enjoys as much exercise as you can give it. They need to be taken on a daily walk, where the dog is made to heel beside or behind the person holding the lead. Dogs who are allowed to walk in front of the human instinctually believe they are alpha over humans, as in a dog's mind, the pack leader goes first.

Life Expectancy
About 12-15 years.

Grooming


Regular combing and brushing of the coat is important. Coat types vary within the breed. Some coats have an excess amount of cottony hair and are prone to matting, while others are more silky and flat-laying and are less prone to matting.  Bathe or dry shampoo as necessary. Check the ears for grass seeds and signs of infection. Clean out excess wax regularly. Brush the hair on the feet down over the toes and trim it level with the base of the feet. Trim the hair around the pads, but not between the toes. Brush out burrs and tangles after the dog has been playing in the grassy fields or woods. This breed is an average shedder.

Origin


The English Cocker Spaniel is one of the oldest spaniels known. Originally known as a general spaniel-type dog, who was imported into England centuries ago, the dogs were divided into seven different spaniel breeds. The English Springer, the Cocker Spaniel, the Clumber, the Sussex, the Welsh Springer, the Field, and the Irish Water. The Cocker and Springer Spaniels developed together, with only size differentiating them until 1892 when the Kennel Club of England recognized them as separate breeds. In 1946 the American and Canadian Kennel Clubs recognized the English Cocker Spaniel as a separate breed from the American Cocker Spaniel. The Cocker Spaniel is a hunting-gun dog able to work in difficult terrain in both wet and dry land. Excellent at flushing and retrieving game with a gentle mouth. They listen to commands well. The name "Cocker" comes from the woodcock, a game bird the dogs were known for flushing. Some of the English Cocker Spaniels talents are hunting, tracking, retrieving, watchdog, agility and competitive obedience.

ENGLISH FOXHOUND

Description


The English Foxhound is an athletic hunting dog. The skull is wide and the muzzle is long. The nose is about 4 inches long (10 cm.) with wide open nostrils. The teeth should meet in a scissors bite. The hanging ears are set low, laying flat to the head. Some choose to "round" the ears, which means about 1 1/2 inches are cut off of the end of the ear. The large eyes are brown. The legs are straight and the cat-like feet are round. The long tail is set high. The coat is short, hard, dense and glossy. Coat colors come in black, tan, and white, for example tri-color (black, white & tan), or bi-color with a white background or any combination of these three.

Temperament


The English Foxhound is a courageous, passionate hunter. High energy, they need a lot of daily exercise. They respond well to leadership and are willing and able to be obedient, but are not as responsive as some breeds and training takes patience and a general understanding of the canine animal. They are friendly with people and excellent with children, but prefer to be in the company of other dogs and do well with other animals. The English Foxhound likes to bay. They are untiring, able to run for hours at a consistent speed, for five or six hours without stopping. Can become destructive without enough exercise. The foxhound does slow down somewhat at about seven or eight years old. The English Foxhound is a bit stockier and slower than the American Foxhound, but has similar traits. There are two types, field lines and show lines (bench). Field types are bred for hunting and field trial work. The bench type are bred for conformation shows. Both types are energetic and need daily exercise, but field lines have a higher energy level and need even more exercise. The dominancy level in this breed varies even within the same litter. If you are not the type of person who can display a natural air of calm, but firm authority, then be sure to choose a pup who is more submissive. The temperament of both show and field lines vary widely, depending upon how the owners treat the dog and how much and what type of exercise they provide. Both types are still primarily a pack hunting dog, though they can make good companions if given sufficient exercise. It is recommended that if you are looking to own an English Foxhound solely as a pet, that you are an avid jogger, biker or hiker and are looking for a canine partner. Even show lines will need a great deal of exercise, just a little less, as field types are extremely active. This breed not only needs extensive daily exercise, but also an owner who has a determined, consistent loving approach, setting rules and structure and consistently sticking to it.

Height, Weight
Height: Dogs 22-25 inches (56-63 cm.) Bitches 21-24 inches (53-61 cm.)
Weight: 65-70 pounds (29-32 kg.)

Health Problems
Generally healthy.

Living Conditions
English Foxhounds are not recommended for apartment life. They are very active indoors and do best with acreage.

Exercise
This breed needs extensive exercise to be happy. They need to be taken on a daily, long, brisk walk or jog where the dog is made to walk beside or behind the human holding the lead, as in a dogs mind, the leader leads the way and that leader needs to be the human, not the dog. Putting a backpack on the dog can help them drain their energy quicker. Jogging or biking with the dog running beside you is ideal, as these dogs can go for hours without getting tired. They are active hunting dogs, who may take off after any interesting scent, so do not take the English Foxhound off its leash unless you are in a safe area. Foxhound who are lacking in mental and or physical exercise will become high strung and may develop destructive, behavioral issues.

Life Expectancy
An average of under 10 years.

Grooming
The short, hard coat is easy to care for. Comb and brush with a firm bristle brush, and shampoo only when necessary. This breed is an average shedder.

Origin


The English Foxhound dates back before the 1800s, in Great Britain. The Brit's had kept records of over 250 different foxhound hunting packs, where studbooks were kept by the British Masters of Foxhounds Association since at least 1800. Records of English foxhounds showed up in the USA dating back to the mid 1900s. Developed by crossing a variety of hounds with the Bulldog, Greyhound and the Fox Terrier. Used in packs to chase fox with hunters on horseback, the Foxhound has impressive stamina and a good nose. He can run steadily for hours at a time. Some of the English Foxhound's talents are hunting, tracking, watchdog and agility. The English Foxhound was recognized by the AKC in 1909. The English Foxhound is a a little slower and a bit stockier than the American Foxhound.

ENGLISH MASTIFF

n.a.

ENGLISH POINTER

n.a

ENGLISH SETTER

Description


The English Setter is a beautiful, long and lean, working gundog. The skull is oval in shape when viewed from above. The muzzle is long and square with a defined stop. The nose has wide nostrils and is either brown or black in color. The teeth meet in a level or scissors bite. The large, round eyes are dark brown. The ears are set back and low, hanging down even with the eye level, covered with silky hair. The large eyes are hazel in color. The chest is deep, but not too wide or round. The tail starts at the topline, thicker at the base tapering to a point with straight, silky feathering. Dewclaws are sometimes removed. The coat is flat, silky and wavy, with feathering on the tail, back of the legs, underside, abdomen, chest and the ears. Coat colors include white with blue, lemon, orange, or brown of various markings. The speckling on the unique coat can be light to heavy and of any size. Some dogs are tri-color (blue, white & brown).

Temperament


The English Setter is a quick, quiet workerer with an excellent nose and a coat that keeps the dog comfortable in both hot and cold weather. A very gentle, calm dog. Friendly and excellent with children they are easy going, loving all the affection they can get. Exuberant and vivacious outdoors, but relatively inactive indoors. With meek owners they will become willful. Can be difficult to housebreak. Rules, structure and training should start early to prevent development of bad habits. They need authoritative, calm, but firm, confident and consistent owners, but should never be harshly treated. They are sensitive to the tone of one's voice and will not listen if they sense that they are stronger minded than their owner, however they will also not respond well to harsh discipline. Owners need to be calm, yet possess an air of natural authority. Needs a lot of structure and enjoys playing with other dogs. English Setters are adequate watchdogs. They like to roam, dig and are good jumpers. There are two types, field lines and show lines (bench). Field types are bred for hunting and field trial work and are generally somewhat smaller and lighter. The bench type are bred for conformation shows. Both types are energetic and need daily exercise, but field lines have a higher energy level and need even more exercise. The dominancy level in this breed varies even within the same litter. If you are not the type of person who can display a natural air of calm, but firm authority, then be sure to choose a pup who is more submissive. The temperament of both show and field lines vary widely, depending upon how the owners treat the dog and how much and what type of exercise they provide. The English Setter can become a nuisance barker if left out in the back yard for long periods of time and if owners do not provide enough mental and physical stimulation and/or leadership. Dogs who bark a lot need to be told this is not acceptable and need their bodies and minds challenged. Some English Setters may be light droolers, although not obsessively like some of the Mastiff type dogs.

Height, weight
Height: Dogs 24-27 inches (61-69cm) Bitches 23-26 inches (58-66cm)
Weight: Dogs 55-80 pounds (25-36kg) Bitches 45-70 pounds (20-32kg)

Health Problems
Prone to hip dysplasia. Be careful not to overfeed this breed, for they tend to gain weight easily. English Setter females are prone to false pregnancies.

Living Conditions
Not recommended for apartment living and does best with at least an average-sized yard.

Exercise
All setters need a daily long, brisk walk or jog, where the dog is made to heel beside the human holding the lead, or they will become restless and difficult to manage. Whether we humans realize it or not, a dog who is allowed to walk ahead of the human holding the lead will instinctually believe he is pack leader to humans, as in a dogs mind, the leader leads the way. In addition, they will also enjoy running free in the safety of a fenced yard.

Life Expectancy
About 10-12 years.

Grooming
Regular combing and brushing of the soft, flat, medium-length coat is all that is required to keep it in excellent condition. It is important to check for burrs and tangles, and to give extra care when the dog is shedding. Bathe or dry shampoo only when necessary. Trim the hair on the bottom of the feet and clip the nails. This breed is an average shedder.
Origin


The first strains of setters were developed in France in 1500, obtained from the Spanish pointer and the French pointer. These early setters were called "Setting Spaniels", named after the way they would crouch down after finding the pray to allow the hunter to throw a net over it. In the early 1800's they were brought to Great Britain where a breeder, named Sir Edward Laverack developed them into the English Setter we know today using early French hunting dogs. He bred out the trait of crouching down more to an almost sitting stance, so the dogs would be easier seen by the hunters who now had guns. English Setter is often called the Laverack Setter. The word "setter" comes from the way the dogs appear to almost be sitting down when they discover game. Laverack's dogs are the foundation stock for many of today's top show dogs. The Llewellin Setter was bred out of English Setter lines by an English breeder named Llewellin. The English Setter's talents include hunting, tracking, retrieving, pointing, watchdog and agility.

ENGLISH SPRINGER SPANIEL

Description


The English Springer Spaniel is a medium-sized, compact dog. The head is in proportion with the body. The broad skull is medium in length and flat on the top. The length of the head is about the same as the length of the neck. The muzzle is about the same length as the skull, with a moderate stop. The nose is either liver or black, depending on the dog's coat color. The teeth meet in a scissors bite. The medium sized, oval shaped eyes are either dark hazel in liver and white dogs or dark brown in the black and white dogs. The long, wide, pendant ears hang close to the cheeks and reach the nose when pulled forward. The chest is deep. The back is level with the length about the same as the height of the dog from the ground to the withers. The front legs are straight, and the feet are compact. The tail is usually docked. Note: docking tails is illegal in most parts of Europe. The coat is medium in length with feathering over the legs, ears, cheeks and brisket. Coat color comes in liver and white, and black and white, predominantly white with black or liver markings, blue or liver roan, a tricolor pattern of black and white or liver and white with tan markings, usually found on eyebrows, cheeks, inside of the ears and under the tail. The white areas of the coat may have ticking.

Temperament


English Springers are even-tempered, gentle, friendly, and sociable dogs that make great child companions. Intelligent, skillful, willing and obedient, and a quick learner. Brave, playful, energetic, pleasant and cheerful, their tails are seemingly always in motion. They are affectionate, good natured and sincere, this dog loves everyone. Springers do best when they are with people who can provide them with some kind of consistent structure where the rules are made clear. Negative issues can arise with meek owners and or owners who do not provide daily mental and physical exercise. This can cause frustration in the dog and they may become destructive and start to bark a lot if left alone. If a Springer does not see the owners as strong authority figures they will begin to believe it is their job to take over the leadership role. If you allow this to happen the dog can become a biter in an attempt to keep the humans in line. Adolescent Springers need a lot of authoritative guidance. They are sensitive to the tone of one's voice and will not listen if they sense that they are stronger minded than their owner, however they will also not respond well to harsh discipline. Owners need to be calm, yet possess an air of natural authority. At this age they can be extra high-energy testing and challenging the leadership position. There are two types, field lines and show lines (bench). Field types are bred for hunting and field trial work. The bench type are bred for conformation shows and have more liver or black on their coat, and the coats are longer and fuller. The feild types have more white on their coat than the show type and much less hair. Both types are intelligent and energetic and need daily exercise, but field lines have a higher energy level and need even more exercise. The dominancy level in this breed varies even within the same litter. If you are not the type of person who can display a natural air of calm, but firm authority, then be sure to choose a pup who is more submissive. The temperament of both show and field lines vary widely, depending upon how the owners treat the dog and how much and what type of exercise they provide. They love water and may constantly get themselves wet and muddy. Usually they are good with other pets but since they are natural fowl hunters they should not be trusted with birds. Sometimes argumentative with other dogs if owners do not communicate clearly who is in charge.

Height, Weight
Height: Dogs 19-21 inches (48-56cm.) Bitches 18-20 inches (46-51cm.)
Weight: Dogs 45-55 pounds (20-25kg.) Bitches 40-50 pounds (18-23kg.)

Health Problems
Some English Springers are prone to hip dysplasia, PRA, which affects the eyes, and PFK, a blood disorder, epilepsy, and HD. Gains weight easily, do not overfeed.

Living Conditions
They will do okay in an apartment if sufficiently exercised. English Springer Spaniels adapt well to town or city life. They are relatively inactive indoors and will do best with at least an average-sized yard.

Exercise
Springers enjoy as much exercise as you can give it. They need lots of it to be happy. They should have chances to take daily long walks or jogs where the dog is made to heel beside or behind the human, never in front, as in a dog's mind, the leader leads the way. They will also benefit from a run and play off the leash. They love to retrieve and swim. These dogs perform very well in both agility skills trials and obedience competitions.

Life Expectancy
About 12-14 years.

Grooming
The coat of the field-type Springer is fairly easy to maintain and regular brushing with a stiff bristle brush will keep it looking good; while the show-type Springers' coat needs more attention. Both need baths and dry shampoo only when necessary, but check the ears regularly for signs of infection. Springers with longer coats will mat if not brushed often and particular attention needs to be given to the ears and the feet. If the hair is not kept shaved on the under side of the ears, it can lead to chronic ear infections. The hair on the feet needs to be trimmed to prevent burrs and foxtails from being imbedded. The longer coats will pick up burrs and branches and need to be combed out after outside exercise or it will mat badly. The show type Springer does not have as much coat as the American Cocker Spaniel, but it needs regular attention. This breed is a constant average shedder.

Origin


The English Springer Spaniel is the founder of all the English hunting spaniels. During the Renaissance, it was considered the ideal companion for the European hunter. Its popularity in America began in 1700. The Clumber, the Sussex, the Welsh Springer, the Field, the Irish Water, and the Cocker Spaniel all developed out of the English Springer Spaniel. Once considered the same breed as the Cocker Spaniel the dogs were born in the same litter. The smaller dogs were the Cockers and were used to hunt woodcock. The larger dogs in the litter, the English Springers, were used to flush out and spring on the game, hence where the dog gets it's name. Both size dogs were and still are good at hunting on land and water and good at work in brush, also making a fine retriever. It was not until 1902 that the Kennel Club of England recognized the English Setter as a separate breed than the Cocker Spaniel. The English Springer Spaniel was recognized by the AKC in 1910. The English Springer Spaniel Field Trial Association was formed in 1924 and field trials were held for the first time. Their talents include hunting, tracking, retrieving, watchdog, agility, competitive obedience, and performing tricks.

ENGLISH TOY TERRIER

n.a.

EPANIEL BRETON-BRITTANY SPANIEL

n.a.

FILA BRASILEIRO

Description
The Fila is well boned with a rectangular structure. Its Bloodhound ancestry is apparent in its long muzzle, pendulous skin, and superb tracking ably. Its muzzle is heavy with pendulous upper lips giving it a the Mastiff appearance. Its neck is very thick, with dewlap. The skin is of the most important breed characteristics. It is thick and loose all over the body, chiefly at the neck, forming pronounced dew laps, and in many individuals the folds proceed to the chest and abdomen. Some dogs show a fold at the side of the head and also at the withers descending to the shoulders. The coat is short, smooth, dense and soft. This breed may be any color, solid or brindle, except white, mouse gray, patched dogs, dappled, or black and tan. The typical colors are fawn, black and brindle. Brindles of a basic color, may have the stripes of either less or with very strong intensity. A black mask may or may not be present. In all permitted colors white markings should be limited to the feet, chest, and tip of tail. The white markings are not desirable on any other part of the body. The back is strong and straight rising gently toward the hindquarters. Its gait is measured and elastic, like that of a cat. His main characteristic is the pace (camels gait), moving two legs of one side first, followed by the two legs of the other side, which causes a rolling lateral movement on the thorax and hindquarters accentuated by the tail when its raised. During the walk he maintains the head lower than the back line. This fascinating carriage has earned it great success in dog shows. General Appearance A typical molossoid breed with powerful bone structure, rectangular and compact figure, but harmonious and proportional. Added to his massiveness a great agility can be easily seen. Bitches must show a well-defined femininity, which differentiates them immediately from males.

Temperament


The Fila Brasileiro is a courageous, powerful Mastiff. It is amenable with its human family, making a very loyal loving companion. Extremely dedicated to his owner. A Fila will protect you without a moments hesitation. He feels that is why he is there. Once you bond with your Fila you and your family will become his whole world. You do not teach your Fila to protect you, as he does this on his own. It is the breeds nature to be loyal and protective of his family. They love kids in their own family and take a lot of abuse from them. Ask anyone who has kids and Fila's and they will tell you how unbelievable it is how gentle they are with the children in the family. Fila's make great family pets and are gentle, loving, loyal and very protective. They will also bond with other pets in your home. Outstanding courage, determination, and bravery are part of his characteristics. He is docile and obedient to his owners and family and extremely tolerant with children in his own family. His faithfulness became a Brazilian proverb. He is always looking for the company of his master. He shows a calm disposition, self-assurance, and self-confidence, not being disturbed by strange noises nor when facing a new environment. An unsurpassed guardian of property, he is also inclined, by instinct, to hunt big game and to herd cattle. Some Filas may drool, especially after getting a drink. Bold and wary with strangers. This breed makes a wonderful guard dog. It needs a dominant owner who understands the alpha pack instinct. Proper socialization and understanding of the breeds instincts are the key to successful ownership of a Fila. Do not allow this breed to take over. He needs a handler who displays natural authority. Be firm, confident and consistent. Passive owners will encounter dominance issues. The objective in training this dog is to achieve a pack leader status. It is a natural instinct for a dog to have an order in their pack. When we humans live with dogs, we become their pack. The entire pack cooperates under a single leader. Lines are clearly defined and rules are set. You as the human MUST be higher up in the order than the dog. A dog with the massive size and strength of the Fila who believes he is alpha to humans is down right dangerous.

A lot of Fila fanciers recommend stopping all socialization at age 4 months. When a canine puppies socialization stops at such a young age it molds their temperament into an anti-social dog. This is the end goal for many Fila owners as it is the breeds trademark so to speak. It is what is called, ""Ojeriza" to strangers", which means the distrust of. A lot of owners however have been choosing to socialize the Fila throughout its life. Socializing a Fila Brasileiro as a puppy will not always make your Fila like people. What it will do is show your Fila that not everything is a threat. It will make him more confident and more stable in the world around him. Robin Barrett owner of Harley Acre Filas states, "When I first got into Filas most owners chose to have their Fila Brasileiro unsocialized and basically lunging maniacs at the end of the leash. Some people seem to need an intimidating dog at the end of a leash or behind a fence to make them feel superior. A Fila does not have to be like that to be protective of you. With good common sense and obedience training you can have a Fila by your side that will behave himself while in public and not want to kill everything that moves. By socializing your Fila and introducing him to the world around him you are doing the same thing that is needed to take a Fila into the show ring."

The Fila is NOT a breed for the average pet owner. You need to know what the Fila Brasileiro is about and what it takes to own one. If you choose to raise your Fila using the methods which produce a dog who is "Ojeriza" to strangers (distrustful of), you must decide if your lifestyle will allow a protective breed who is anti-social with strangers and decide if you have the ability to control the dog. If you have a lot of friends and relatives coming in and out of your home you may want to consider another breed. You also need a good solid fence of correct height with secure locks to keep strangers out and the Fila in.

Height, Weight
Height: 25.5-29.5 inches (65-75 cm.)
Weight: 90-110 pounds (41-50 kg.)

Health Problems
Prone to most large breed ailments.  Beware of hip dysplasia. As these dogs are prone to bloat, feed two or three small meals a day, instead of one large one. Also prone to CHD, gastric torsion, elbow dysplasia and PRA.

Living Conditions
This breed is not suited to city live, as its vigorous body must work off energy in the freedom of the country. They need a fenced in yard with room to run. The Fila can sleep outdoors with proper shelter.

Exercise
The Fila needs plenty of chanced to exercise. While some can appear very lazy, big couch potatoes, like all dogs, they should be taken on daily walks.

Life Expectancy
About 9-11 years

Grooming
The smooth, short-haired coat is easy to groom. Brush with a firm bristle brush and wipe over with a piece of toweling or chamois for a gleaming finish. Bathe or dry shampoo when necessary. This breed is an average shedder.

Origin
The Fila  Brasileiro are descendants of the 15th-century English Mastiff, Bloodhound, Bulldog and Rafeiros. From the Bloodhound, he inherited loose skin and keen sense of smell. The Bloodhound in its bloodlines gives it superb tracking ability. The Mastiff contributed compact body, courage and an ever-alert disposition. When the Fila finds its quarry it does not attack, but rather holds it at bay until the hunter arrives. The Bulldog added the unforgiving impetuous temperament. The Fila has the abilty to track, herd and control livestock and large game. When slavery was legal in Brazil, the Fila was used return fugitives unharmed to their slave masters. The Filas great tracking ability led to its presents in North America and Europe. Due to its size and potential for aggression, it is unfairly banned in some countries.

FOX TERRIER

n.a.

FRENCH BULLDOG

Description


The French Bulldog is a sturdy, compact, stocky little dog, with a large square head that has a rounded forehead. The muzzle is broad and deep with a well defined stop. The nose is black, but may be lighter in lighter colored dogs. The upper lips hang down over the lower lips. The teeth meet in an under bite and the lower jaw is square and deep. The round, prominent eyes are set wide apart and are dark in color. The bat ears stand erect, are broad at the base narrowing in a triangular shape and rounded at the tips. The height at the withers to the ground should be approximately the same as the length from withers to the base of the tail. The tail is either straight or cork-screw. The chest is broad and deep with the front of the dog being wider than the back end, forming a pear shape. The Dewclaws may be removed. The medium-fine coat is short and smooth. The skin is loose forming wrinkles around the head and shoulders. Coat colors include brindle, fawn, white, and combinations of brindle or fawn with white.

Temperament


The French Bulldog is a pleasant, easy-care companion, who is playful, alert and affectionate. Enthusiastic and lively, but are not yappy and loud. Curious, sweet and absolutely hilarious; they have a very comical personality and love to clown around. They are bright and easygoing. The Frenchie gets along fairly well with strangers and other animals and enjoys being with their owners. They play well with other dogs. Those Frenchies who are allowed to believe they are alpha may become dog aggressive. This breed needs leadership and will not thrive without it. The Frenchie cannot be owned and ignored. When they sense an owner is meek or passive towards them they will become very stubborn and even snappish. They can be trained if the owner is calm, but firm, consistent and patient. Proper human to canine communication is essential. Do not give them affection or sweet talk them if they are displaying any type of unwanted behaviors, instead correct them sternly with a air of calm authority. French Bulldogs are clean, and most will try to avoid puddles. Most cannot swim so take caution around water. This breed does best with considerate children who know how to display proper leadership. This breed may drool and slobber; however a good percentage of them do not. They are also a relentless hunter of mice. Do not allow this sweet little bully to develop Small Dog Syndrome.

Height, Weight
Height: 12 inches (30cm.)
There are two weight classes of French Bulldog: 19-22 (9-10kg.) pounds and 22-28 pounds (10-13kg.). Over 28 pounds is a disqualification.

Health Problems


French Bulldogs are prone to joint diseases, spinal disorders, heart defects and eye problems. Dams often have to deliver pups by cesarean section, because pups have relatively large heads. They often have respiratory problems. They tend to wheeze and snore and have trouble in hot weather. Prone to heat stroke. An overweight Frenchie may have trouble breathing, because of a swollen abdomen. Do not overfeed this breed. Putting them under anesthesia is risky because of their breathing issues. French Bulldogs are high maintenance and potential owners need to be aware that their vet bills may be high. Take this into consideration before choosing a Frenchie puppy.

Living Conditions


Frenchies are good for apartment life. They can be fairly active indoors and will do okay without a yard. Does not do well in temperature extremes.

Exercise
The French Bulldog needs to be taken on a daily walk, where the dog is made to heel beside or behind the person holding the lead, as instinct tells a dog the leader leads the way, and that leader needs to be the human. Simply running around a large yard is not going to satisfy their migration instinct. Take care in hot weather. They love to run and play and can play for hours if you let them. Some have higher energy levels than others.

Life Expectancy
About 10-12 years.

Grooming
Very little grooming is needed. Regular brushings will do. This breed is an average shedder.

Origin


The French Bulldog originated in 19th Century Nottingham, England, where Lace makers decided to make a smaller, miniature, lap version of the English Bulldog, that were referred to as "toy" bulldogs. In the 1860's when the Industrial Revolution drove the craftsmen to France they took their dogs with them. The toy bulldogs became popular in France and were given the name the, "French Bulldog". The breed eventually made its way back to England for dog shows. The Britts were not happy with the name "French" given to a dog that was originally from England, however the name "French Bulldog" stuck.

GERMAN SHEPHERD DOG

Description


The German Shepherd Dog is well proportioned and very strong. The GSD has a sturdy, muscular, slightly elongated body with a light, solid bone structure. The head should be in proportion to its body, and the forehead a little rounded. The nose is most often black however, blue or liver still do sometimes occur, but is considered a fault and can not be shown. The teeth meet in a strong scissors bite. The dark eyes are almond-shaped, and never protruding. The ears are wide at the base, pointed, upright, and turned forward. The ears of puppies under six months may droop slightly. The bushy tail reaches almost to its hocks and hangs down when the dog is at rest. The front legs and shoulders are muscular and the thighs are thick and sturdy. The round feet have very hard soles. There are three varieties of the German Shepherd: rough-coated, long rough-coated, and the long-haired. The coat most often comes in black with tan, sable or all black, but also can come in blue, liver and white, but those colors are considered a fault according to most standards. White is not an acceptable color for the German Shepherd, however they are now being recognized as a separate breed, called the American White Shepherd. A piebald color has also occured in a single GSD bloodline which are now being called Panda Shepherds. A Panda is 35% white, the remainder of color is black and tan, and has no white German Shepherds in its ancestry.

Temperament


Often used as working dogs, German Shepherds are courageous, keen, alert and fearless. Cheerful, obedient and eager to learn. Tranquil, confident, serious and clever. GSDs are extremely faithful, and brave. They will not think twice about giving their lives for their human pack. They have a high learning ability. German Shepherds love to be close to their families, but can be wary of strangers. This breed needs his people and should not be left isolated for long periods of time. They only bark when they feel it is necessary. Often used as police dogs, the German Shepherd has a very strong protective instinct, and are extremely loyal to their handler. Socialized this breed well starting at puppyhood. Aggression and attacks on people are due to poor handling and training. Problems arise when an owner allows the dog to believe he is pack leader over humans and or does not give the dog the mental and physical daily exercise they need to be stable. This breed needs owners who are naturally authoritative over the dog in a calm, but firm, confident and consistent way. A stable, well-adjusted, and trained dog is for the most part generally good with other pets and excellent with children in the family. They must be firmly trained in obedience from an early age. German Shepherds who have passive owners and or who's instincts are not being met can become timid, skittish and may be prone to fear biting and develop a guarding issue. They should be trained and socialized from an early age. German Shepherds will not listen if they sense that they are stronger minded than their owner, however they will also not respond well to harsh discipline. Owners need to have an air of natural authority to their demeanor. Do not treat this dog as if he were human. Learn canine instincts and treat the dog accordingly. German Shepherds are one of the smartest and most trainable breeds. With this highly skilled working dog comes a drive to have a job and a task in life and a consistent pack leader to show them guidance. They need somewhere to channel their mental and physical energy. This is not a breed who will be happy simply laying around your living room or locked out in the back yard. The breed is so intelligent and learns so readily that it has been used as a sheepdog, guard dog, in police work, as a guide for the blind, in search and rescue service, and in the military. The German Shepherd also excels in many other dog activities including schutzhund, tracking, obedience, agility, flyball, and ring sport. His fine nose can sniff out drugs and intruders, and can alert handlers to the presence of underground mines in time to avoid detonation, or gas leaks in a pipes buried 15 feet underground. The German Shepherd is also a popular show and family companion.

Height, Weight


Height: Dogs 24-26 inches (60-65cm.) Females 22-24 inches (55-60cm.)
Weight: 77-85 pounds (35-40kg.)

Health Problems
Indiscriminate breeding has lead to hereditary diseases such as hip and elbow dysplasia, blood disorders, digestive problems, bloat, epilepsy, chronic eczema, keratitis (inflammation of the cornea), dwarfism and flea allergies.

Living Conditions
The German Shepherd will do okay in an apartment if sufficiently exercised. They are relatively inactive indoors and do best with at least a large yard.

Exercise


German Shepherd Dogs love strenuous activity, preferably combined with training of some kind, for these dogs are very intelligent and crave a good challenge. They need to be taken on a daily, brisk, long walk, jog or run alongside you when you bicycle. While out on the walk the dog must be made to heel beside or behind the person holding the lead, as in a dog's mind the leader leads the way, and that leader needs to be the human. Most shepherds love to play ball or Frisbee. Ten to fifteen minutes of fetching along with daily pack walks will tire your dog out quite nicely as well as give him a sense of purpose. Whether it is ball chasing, frisbee catching, obedience training, participation in a canine playgroup or just taking long walks/jogs, you must be willing to provide some form of daily, constructive exercise. The daily exercise must always include daily walks/jogs to satisfy the dogs migration instinct. If under-exercised and or mentally challenged, this breed can become restless and destructive. Does best with a job to do.

Life Expectancy
Around 13 years.
Grooming
This breed sheds bits of hair constantly and is a seasonally heavy shedder. They should be brushed daily or you will have hair all over your home. Bathe only when necessary, over bathing can cause skin irritation from oil depletion. Check ears and trim claws regularly.
Origin


In Karlsruhe, Germany, Captian Max von Stephanitz and other dedicated breeders produced a responsive, obedient, and handsome German Shepherd using long-haired, short-haired, and wire-haired local herding and farm dogs from Wurtemberg, Thurginia, and Bavaria. The dogs were presented at Hanover in 1882, and the short-haired variety was first presented in Berlin in 1889. In April 1899, von Stephanitz registered a dog named Horan as the first Deutsche Schдferhunde, which means German Shepherd Dog in English. Until 1915, both long-haired and wire-haired varieties were shown. Today, in most countries, only the short coat is recognized for show purposes. The first GSD was shown in America in 1907 and the breed was recognized by the AKC in 1908. The German Shepherd dogs used in movies Rin-Tin-Tin and Strongheart brought a lot of attention to the breed making it very popular.

GERMAN SPITZ

n.a.

GIANT SCHNAUZER

n.a.

GOLDEN RETRIVER

n.a.

GORDON SETTER

n.a.

GREAT DANE

n.a.

GREAT PYRENEES

n.a.

HARRIER

n.a.

HOKKAIDO DOG

n.a.

HUNGARIAN PULI

n.a.

HUNGARIAN VIZSLA

n.a.

IRISH BLUE TERRIER

n.a.

IRISH RED AND WHITE SETTER.

n.a.

IRISH SETTER

n.a.

IRISH TERRIER

n.a.

IRISH WOLFHOUND

n.a.

ITALIAN GRΕYHOUND

n.a.

JACK RUSSELL TERRIER

n.a.

JAGTERRIER

n.a.

JAPANESE CHIN

n.a.

KAI INU

n.a.

KANGAL

n.a.

KEESHOND

n.a.

KING CHARLES SPANIEL

n.a.

KOREAN JINDO

n.a.

KURZHAAR

n.a.

LABRADOR RETRIVER

n.a.

LEONBERGER

n.a.

LHASA APSO

n.a.

MALTESE

Description


The Maltese is a small, hardy dog with silky hair. The body is compact, fine-boned, but sturdy and slightly longer than it is tall with a level top line. The chest is deep. The skull is slightly rounded on the top with a moderate stop. The medium length muzzle tapers, but not to a point. The pendant, low-set ears are set close to the head and heavily feathered. The black eyes are large, round and set moderately apart with dark rims. The nose is black with open nostrils. The dog has a silky, single layer coat that is white or light ivory. When kept long and groomed like a show dog, it hangs flat, long over the sides of the body almost to the ground (about 8½ inches (22cm.)) hanging on each side of a center part line and is not wavy, curly or kinky. A lot of owners choose to cut the coat into a short, easy care puppy cut.

Temperament


The Maltese is spirited, lively and playful. Gentle, loving, trusting and devoted to its master. Highly intelligent. Good at learning tricks. Bold and quick to sound the alarm in case of suspicious noises. It is a classical companion dog; graceful and lovable. They do well with other non-canine animals and other dogs. Maltese love to play outdoors. Some like to jump in puddles. May be difficult to housebreak. If you feed them table scraps, they can become picky eaters. Do not allow these dogs to develop Small Dog Syndrome, human induced behaviors, where the dog believes he is pack leader to humans. This causes a varying degree of behavior problems. If the dog believes he is boss, he can be snappish with children and even adults. Do not over-pamper or overprotect these little dogs, for they will become unstable, and some may become jealous of visitors. Maltese who are allowed to take over the house, being boss of the humans can also develop separation anxiety, guarding, and obsessive barking. These are not Maltese traits, but rather behaviors brought on by the way the dog is treated by the people around them. These behaviors will go away when the dog is surrounded by stable pack leaders.

Height, Weight
Height: Dogs 8-10 inches (21-25cm.) Bitches 8-9 inches (20-23cm.)
Weight: from 6Ѕ-9 pounds (3-4kg.)

Health Problems
Prone to sunburn along the hair parting; skin, eye issues, respiratory, and slipped stifle. Some may be difficult to feed with weak, upset digestion. They may get the chills, and they experience discomfort in hot weather. Maltese should be kept out of damp areas. Also prone to teeth problems. Feeding dry dog biscuits in addition to their normal food can help the teeth stay clean and healthy.

Living Conditions
The Maltese is a good dog for apartment life. They are very active indoors and will do okay without a yard.

Exercise
Maltese need a daily walk.  Play will take care of a lot of their exercise needs, however, as with all breeds, play will not fulfill their primal instinct to walk. Dogs who do not get to go on daily walks are more likely to display behavior problems. They will also enjoy a good romp in a safe open area off lead, such as a large fenced in yard. They remain playful well into old age. They are very active indoors.

Life Expectancy
About 15 or more years. It may live as long as 18, but it is important to keep it out of the damp.

Grooming
Daily combing and brushing of the long coat is important but be gentle, as the coat is very soft. Clean the eyes daily to prevent staining, and clean the beard after meals for the same reason. Bathe or dry shampoo regularly - making sure the animal is thoroughly dry and warm afterward. Clean the ears, and pull out hair growing inside the ear canal. The eyes should be checked regularly and cleaned if necessary. The hair on the top of the head is often tied up in a topknot to keep it away from the eyes. Some pet owners opt to clip the hair short for easier and less time consuming grooming. The Maltese sheds little to no hair and is good for allergy sufferers.

Origin


The Maltese was developed in Italy. It is said to have miniature spaniel and poodle blood. The Maltese was first recognized as a breed in Malta, where they received their name. They were once known as "Ye ancient dogge of Malta,". The breed was owned by royalty all over the world. Women carried them around in their sleeves and slept with them in their beds. They were first brought to England by Crusaders returning home from the Mediterranean. The Maltese was first recognized by the AKC in 1888.

NEAPOLITAN MASTIFF

n.a.

NEWFOUNDLAND

n.a.

NORWEGIAN BUHUND

n.a.

PAPILLON

n.a.

PEKINGESE

n.a.

PINSCHER

n.a.

PITBULL

n.a.

POMERANIAN

n.a.

POODLE

n.a.

PORCELAINE

n.a.

POSAVAC

n.a.

PUG

n.a.

RHODESIAN RIDGEBACK

n.a.

ROTTWEILER

n.a.

SAINT BERNARD

n.a.

SALUKI

n.a.

SAMOYED

n.a.

SARPLANINAC

n.a.

SCHNAUZER MINIATURE

n.a.

SCOTTISH TERRIER

n.a.

SHAR PEI

n.a.

SHETLAND SHEEPDOG - SLELTIE

n.a.

SHIBA INU

n.a.

SHIH TZU

n.a.

SHIKOKU INU

n.a.

SIBERIAN HUSKY

n.a.

TIBETAN MASTIFF

n.a.

TOSA INU

n.a.

TOY FOX TERRIER

n.a.

VAIMARANER

n.a.

WEST HIGHLAND WHITE TERRIER

n.a.

WEST SIBERIAN LAIKA

n.a.

WHIPPET

n.a.

White Swiss Shepherd

n.a.

YORKSHIRE TERRIER

n.a.