Category: Dog Breeds

The Briard is a breed that can thrive on a farm or equally well as a family companion. If child and dog are raised together, things tend to turn out well.

The Briard (pronounced “BREE-ard”) is a very old breed. According to the American Kennel Club (AKC), the Briard dates back to at least the Middle Ages. Written records go back to the 12 century. In France, it is known as the Berger de Brie. It can be a fun-loving dog, but needs firm (not forceful) handling, structure, and exercise.

Breed Standard for the Briard

This breed belongs to the Herding Group. It was recognized in 1928. Males should be 23 to 27 inches at the withers. Females are 22 to 25 ½ inches. It should be “vigorous and alert,” and its structure reflecting strength of muscle and bone.

The head should be held alert and proud. The neck should be “strongly muscled” with a good length. Shoulders slope at a 45-degree angle supported by strong muscles. The hindquarters should be “powerful, providing flexible, almost tireless movement.”

Briard Characteristics

As a herding dog, the Briard likes to work. On the farm or ranch, they will herd all manner of animals, depending on the individual dog. Like most herding breeds, the individual herding instinct varies. In the family environment, this dog will herd family members and other pets, and will often place itself in strategic positions within the home to keep watch on its “flock.”

They can be wary of strangers, so puppy training and socialization is vital. It is a breed of great character, initiative, and curiosity. It will protect the family and responds well to proper obedience.

This dog has a lot of facial hair that forms itself into a nice chin beard. It grows hair over its eyes in a short period of time, and often looks as if it cannot see what is directly in front of it. It can also have the appearance of peering out of its mane, as if spying.

Care, Grooming and Health Concerns of the Briard

The dog needs regular brushing, but actually does not shed as much as some. It has been known to do a good job of self-cleaning, although due to the style of its coat, things tend to stick to the dog after it’s been outside. It should be given a good walk or run daily.

The Briard is famous in veterinary circles for getting bloat (the stomach distends with gas and fluid), a potentially life-threatening situation. It can also have, like most large breeds, hip dysplasia. Eye problems have been recorded as well.

Overall, the Briard is a wonderful bread that does well on the farm. It also serves parents and children well as an adaptable family dog.

Although poodles are often stereotyped as persnickety, pampered pets, they are in fact, very affectionate, sweet dogs, who love to please their owners. Considered the second most intelligent dog breed, they are responsive and easy to train. Affectionate, energetic and entertaining, these dogs are the ninth most popular breed in the United States, according to American Kennel Club (AKC) statistics.

The AKC classifies poodles into three types, standard, miniature, and toy, based on their height (not weight). Standard poodles, the tallest of the three types, are 15 inches or higher. Miniature poodles measure between 10 and 15 inches, while toy poodles come up to 10 inches. The measurements are based on a dog’s height at the highest point of his or her shoulders.

Poodles were originally bred in Europe to be water retrievers. Although their history is not completely certain, it is believed that the standard poodle was the first to be bred and the smaller ones came later. Miniature poodles may have been developed as hunting dogs; toy poodles performed in circuses and were favorite companion pets of French royalty during the 18th century.

Poodle Temperament

Standard and miniature poodles make wonderful family pets. They like children, and are playful, protective, fun-loving dogs. Because of their small size, however, toy poodles need to be handled very gently. They are better suited to homes with older children or adult occupants only. All of the poodle types crave attention from their owners and therefore thrive in homes where they receive a lot of love and affection.

Because they are smart, responsive and eager to please, poodles are very trainable pets. They also can be sensitive, nervous dogs, particularly the miniature and toy varieties, and, as a result, tend to do better in non-stressful environments. Poodles can adapt to almost any size home as long as they remain mentally and physically active.

Poodles’ Average Lifespan and Veterinarian Visits

Poodles’ average life span is between 11 and 13 years. Like all dogs, they require regular veterinarian check-ups and shots in addition to heartworm and, often times, flea prevention medication. They also need their teeth cleaned annually by a veterinarian.

Poodle’s Activity Requirements

Because poodles are energetic, intelligent dogs, they need both physical and mental activity. Daily exercise is necessary, along with non-repetitive playtime activities, to prevent them from getting bored. Standard poodles especially are very active dogs and enjoy long, brisk walks, while the miniature and toy varieties require a more moderate level of daily physical activity.

Poodle Grooming

Poodles have thick, curly hair that grows quickly. These dogs require daily brushing with a slicker brush in addition to washing and trimming every one to two months. Other grooming requirements include cleaning their ears and the area near their eyes, in addition to clipping their nails.

Where to Get a Poodle

Local shelters and humane societies are great places to find a poodle. In addition, there are numerous poodle rescue organizations that have wonderful pets waiting to be adopted. Rescue and shelter dogs, while often requiring a little extra love and attention initially, tend to be very appreciative, loving pets. It also can be a very fulfilling experience to provide a good home for an abused or abandoned dog.

When purchasing a poodle from a breeder, it is a good idea to do extensive research about the breeder in advance. There are numerous poodle breeders from which to choose a pet. The time dedicated to locating a good breeder will be well worth the potential heartache and cost resulting from an unhealthy dog.

An Old English Sheepdog is famous for its flowing gray and white hair. According to the American Kennel Club’s official description, Sheepdogs, also called OES, are a large boxy breed averaging 21 inches tall, about as long and with powerful legs. This is large enough to easily reach a table top. They should not look thin. Sheepdogs have a double layer coat. Under the fast growing hair is a layer of waterproof undercoat. Shedding is not a big problem with this breed because of the need for regular grooming. You are more likely to find balls of fluffy undercoat than individual hair on your floors and in corners.

This breed is nicknamed “Bobtail” because of their clipped tail. Tails are clipped at birth which may rarely leave a short stump that results in a small fluffy tail like a rabbit. No tail should be evident in show dogs. Working dogs sometimes get shaved right along with the herd of sheep as the long hair can be used to make clothing.

Temperament: A Big Personality

Old English Sheepdogs are herding dogs useful for driving sheep, cattle or kids. When you bring a puppy home he may immediately try to herd you and your family. They do this by using their body to block your way, resembling a cat rubbing on someone, not by nipping or biting.

An OES has a big personality to go with its large body. These dogs are overly enthusiastic in everything they do. They are intelligent and eager to please and will study your movements, making them easy to train. Old English Sheepdogs bond passionately with their families. They keep their youthful energy longer than many breeds. They do not bark excessively if taught properly, although when they do, it is very loud.

Because of their eagerness and size they often get in the way. They will greet visitors as if their sole purpose was to meet the dog. They could easily knock children down in their eagerness to find an idle hand to pet them. They want very much to be lap dogs. Their big feet will step on your toes as they impose their large head into your lap seeking love and attention. They love games and can be very entertaining to watch. They have been described as clowns for good reason.

Two Important Needs: Attention and Grooming

Old English Sheepdogs need lots of attention. They become very attached and may suffer separation anxiety if left alone daily or for long periods. They are not dogs that can be easily passed along to another family. These dogs have no problems with commitment. They will suffer if ignored or too often confined away from people. They get along well with other people and dogs, as long as the other dogs don’t get scared by a large dog running to greet them! Too many experiences where the other dogs acts defensively will make a Sheepdog shy and afraid.

Proper socialization is essential in the puppy’s early life. Do not keep them away from socializing experiences. They have many instincts that make training them fairly easy. But owners must demand obedience strictly. Getting lazy about behavior will create a dog who will have little self control. These dogs respect and love being expected to perform. Strict training as a puppy will make them a well-mannered joy to live with. Ignoring their manners will guarantee a very large monster.

Their most obvious need is for good grooming. Grooming an OES is no easy task. Shaving them can be back breaking work. The long hair look is hard on owners and many prefer a shorter cut that is easy to care for and keep up. Even when kept short, a monthly bath and haircut is necessary for a clean pet. Their hair grows remarkably fast. Teaching a puppy to like being brushed is important. Even with monthly haircuts at a groomer, they need some maintenance at home, making a brush, a good pair of scissors, and a good shampoo essential.

To Buy or Not to Buy an OES

Before deciding if the Old English Sheepdog is right for you decide if you have the time, money and attention to provide grooming, training and love these dogs need. Owning an OES is a long term commitment since they live around 12 years. If you can be patient and tolerant while also demanding obedience you may be a good Sheepdog owner. If you have small children that need your time and attention you may need to wait for a few years until they are old enough to understand how to act around a large boisterous Sheepdog. Be sure to research an Old English breeder thoroughly and ask for references. These dogs are a healthy breed but can still suffer from careless breeding. The temperament of the parents is an important consideration too. Learn all you can about dog training and grooming before bringing home your puppy and you will be ready to be an Old English Sheepdog lover!

Italian Greyhounds, who are relatives of Greyhounds, are an old breed — it is believed that they originated in the Mediterranean approximately 2000 years ago. During the Renaissance period, the dog became very popular among Italian nobleman, hence the breed’s name Italian Greyhound. These perky, affectionate dogs, may originally have been bred for both companionship and hunting purposes.

Italian Greyhounds: Description

Italian Greyhounds are small gazehounds — dogs that hunt by sight, rather than by scent. Classified by the American Kennel Club (AKC) in to the Toy Group, Italian Greyhounds are generally between 13 to 15 inches tall up to their shoulder, and weigh between seven and 15 pounds. They are very slender, graceful dogs, who in spite of a dainty appearance, are hardy and healthy, living on average between 12 and 15 years. These dogs have short, silky, odorless coats that can be almost any color. Because they tend to be quiet, not yappy, Italian Greyhounds may not make the best watch dogs.

Italian Greyhounds: Temperament

While Italian Greyhounds can be at times a little quirky, they are sweet, wonderful pets. Italian Greyhounds are tender, affectionate animals who adore their owner, and immensely enjoy receiving love back from their immediate human family members. While they thrive when near their owners, they tend to be reserved around strangers. Playful and mischievous, Italian Greyhounds sometimes enjoy perching themselves on high places, such as dining room and kitchen tables.

Because their hair is short, and their stature is skinny, Italian Greyhounds are sensitive to chilly weather. It is very difficult to get them to go outside in the wind, rain or cold. During inclement weather, they prefer to do their business inside, so it is recommended to train them to use a litter box. Conversely, Italian Greyhounds love warmth. They enjoy lying outside in the sun and snuggling under bed covers with their owner.

Italian Greyhounds: Exercise and Grooming Requirements

Italian Greyhounds have short, shiny, silky coats that shed very little; they are, therefore, very easy to groom. These dogs require only occasional brushing with a soft bristle brush. Bathing the dogs can be done by mixing a 1/2 cup distilled white vinegar with 1 quart of warm water and gently wiping the mixture onto their coats with a sponge. Because these dogs are prone to periodontal disease, it’s extremely important to brush their teeth daily and to have annual or semiannual dental cleanings, by a veterinarian.

Italian Greyhounds are active dogs who need to be walked daily. They also enjoy running and playing inside the house. Because these dogs are gazehounds, whose instinct is to hunt and run quickly, they need a fenced-in yard and supervision. Puppies in particular need to be watched because they are fragile and can be susceptible to breaking their bones.

Where to Get Italian Greyhounds

The Italian Greyhound Club of America (IGCA) has a rescue service for abused, abandoned or owner surrendered dogs. This is one of several organizations where Italian Greyhounds, just waiting for a forever home can be found. Petfinder.com lists thousands of abandoned or rescued dogs, including Italian Greyhounds, being held at various rescue organizations and shelters

When purchasing an Italian Greyhound from a breeder, it’s a good idea to do extensive research about the breeder in advance. There are numerous breeders from which to choose an Italian Greyhound. The time dedicated to locating a good breeder will be well worth the potential heartache and cost resulting from an unhealthy dog.

Getting a Rottweiler: Traits and Characteristics of the Rottweiler Breed

If there is one thing to remember about the Rottweiler breed, it is that the Rottweiler is a powerful working dog (originally bred to herd cattle) with a strong prey-drive. As such, the Rottweiler will want to chase things that move (like cats, or even children!). Because of that, this breed is not for wimps!

Training a Rottweiler

The Rottweiler will require a firm (but loving) hand in training. Those who are reluctant to discipline a pup, or don’t want to assert their natural supremacy as pack leader, should probably steer clear of Rottweiler ownership altogether. Anything less than total vigilance when it comes to training can result in a dog that is prone to aggressive (and potentially dangerous) behavior.

Rottweilers and Aggression

While there are no doubt countless examples of perfectly docile Rottweilers, it should be noted that the Rottweiler is a dog that is known f(and bred) for aggression. During the first year or two, it will be a daily battle to reign in the pup’s natural sense of aggression, and assert the owner’s dominance. With lots of work though, it is perfectly reasonable to expect the Rottweiler to mature into a calm and reliable companion.

Rottweilers and Children

As prey-driven animals, Rottweilers and children are not a natural mix. Children are fast and unpredictable, and as such, can often appear as prey to the Rottweiler. This is not bad intent on the dog’s part – just the natural result of breeding and instinct in this powerful working breed. It would be wise to keep the following things in mind when it comes to Rottweilers and kids:

• Socialize the Rottweiler around children, even if there will be no children in the home. Take the puppy to parks and other places where children play.
• Get the dog used to the way children move and the sound of their voices. Be firm with the puppy – there should be no gray areas when it comes to the safety of a child.
• Do not leave the Rottweiler alone with a small child. Animals are unpredictable, and children can provoke an animal even when they are just playing with it.

Public Perception of the Rottweiler

The reality is, many people will react with fear to the Rottweiler. They will assume the dog is dangerous, even when the animal is perfectly gentle. Before purchasing a Rottweiler, people should ask themselves how they plan on handling the often negative reactions the dog will elicit. Know ahead of time that people will often have less tolerance for a Rottweiler that is off-leash or otherwise out of the owner’s immediate control, than they might for, say, a Golden Retriever. With time, and with enough responsible owners out there, the Rottweiler’s bad reputation will certainly change. Until then though, expect some people to cross the street when they see the Rottweiler coming their way.

Where to Find a Rottweiler

The only place to get a Rottweiler is from a reputable breeder. Except for the experienced trainer or handler, the full grown Rottweiler in the shelter is not a good bet. Unfortunately there is simply too much that can go wrong with this breed to take a chance on a full-grown dog. Here are some tips for finding a reputable breeder:

• A reputable breeder will be someone who can provide copies of health certificates, pedigrees, and all records relating to the puppy.
• A reputable breeder will likely have lots of questions for a prospective owner, with their goal being to match the right dog with the right owner.
• A reputable breeder will be someone who specializes in one (or sometimes two) breeds. They will have a good, working knowledge of the breed, and should be able to answer most any question in a simple, direct manner.
• A reputable breeder will not let the puppy go before the puppy is (at least) 8 weeks old.

Before adopting a Rottweiler, it is important to understand that this is a prey-driven animal with powerful instincts and a strong desire to dominate. With a lot of hard work and plenty of training though, it is possible to turn this beautiful strong-willed dog into a lifelong companion.

Cavalier King Charles Spaniels

During the sixteenth, seventeenth and eighteenth centuries, Cavalier King Charles Spaniels, often referred to as Cavaliers, were beloved companion dogs, primarily for the British aristocracy. Named after Charles II of England, who was said to have several of these small dogs, the Cavalier lost its popularity during the 19th century. Cavaliers were subsequently interbred and virtually disappeared until the 1920s, when efforts were made by an American dog fancier to bring the breed back. By the 1950s, the first Cavaliers were brought to America.

Cavaliers’ Temperament

Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are excellent family dogs. Because of their long history as companion pets, their natural disposition is to be sweet and loving, sociable and affectionate. They are devoted dogs who want nothing more than to be near their human companions. Cavaliers are gentle mannered and non-aggressive — they get along well with other family members, including children, seniors, dogs and cats.

Another hallmark trait of this breed is that they are very trusting. Because of this trusting nature however, they have no fear of running up to larger, potentially aggressive dogs that are roaming around dog parks or on the street. As a result, the Cavaliers are vulnerable to being hurt by an aggressive dog. It’s very important, therefore, to keep a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel on a leash when walking it and/or to have a fence securing its home.

In addition to having a sweet temperament, and getting along well with people, Cavaliers are great pets for other reasons as well. Adaptable to a variety of situations, Cavaliers can live in the city or county, in an apartment or large house. They can thrive with a single person or with a family. These dogs enjoy taking long walks with their owners, or they are just as happy with short spurts of exercise around the house.

Cavaliers’ Grooming Needs

The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel has a silky coat that is easy to groom. This dog generally requires brushing with a slicker brush and comb approximately once per week. Depending on the condition of the individual Cavalier’s coat, it can be brushed more frequently if needed. Additional grooming requirements include bathing, nail clipping, cleaning the area around their eyes and ears, and brushing their teeth.