Archive for May, 2008



Afghan Hound

Thursday, May 29th, 2008

AKA: Tazi, Baluchi HoundAfghan Hound

Description: The Afghan Hound is an aristocrat, their whole appearance is one of dignity and aloofness with no coarseness. They are tall and slender with a long, narrow, refined head, silky topknot and powerful jaws. Their most striking characteristics are their exotic expression, long silky topknot, peculiar coat pattern and prominent hipbones. They are large, powerful, squarely built and agile. Among the breeds, they are the most glamorous. They have an almond shaped dark eyes and their ears lie flat to their head with a long and strong neck. Their front legs are strong and straight and feet are large covered with long hair. The tail has a curl or ring at the tip, but not carried over back. Afghan Hounds have a side which is an arrogant mischievous companion, but they can be aloof with strangers, but are friendly and affectionate with their family. Afghan Hounds have recently been utilized in the sport of Afghan racing. They make delightful pets, but require much grooming on behalf of their beautiful coat. They are a strong willed and dignified dog. They can be very aloof with strangers, which is their trademark, but they can also be the best of playmates. Quite clownish at times, the Afghan Hound can do well with children if socialized. They are affectionate and friendly with family. They can be rather independent however, which makes it difficult to train.

Temperament: The Afghan Hound adapts well to many different places. City or country, house or apartment, the Afghan Hound will do fine as long as they get enough exercise, socialization and have a patient, active owner. Keep them leashed or within a fence. The best owner for this breed would be an active, attentive individual or family living in a rural or suburban area. They love to run so, daily exercise is what they need, preferably morning and evening runs. They are difficult to train because of their independent nature. Intelligent they are, but they need a strong, committed owner. This will lead to a happy relationship in the household.

Grooming : When it comes to grooming, the Afghan Hound has a silky and luxurious coat that can take quite some effort. You could spend 3- 4 hours of grooming. Their coats need an extensive grooming, daily grooming is recommended most especially for mat removal. Bathing them two or three times per month, You will need to trim his bottom and keep his ear canals clean for health and hygiene reasons, and you may wish to get his coat trimmed every few months.

Health Problems: Their life span is around 10 – 12 years This is generally a healthy and robust breed. There is potential for juvenile cataracts and possible hip dysplasia. They may also have a sensitivity to drugs, flea powders and tickicides. There have been rare cases of progressive paralysis. Cryptorchidism, monorchidism and heart problems may also pertain to this breed.

Breed Group: Southern, AKC Hound

Color: Afghan Hounds come in all colors, and many different patterns.

Height: male: 27, female: 25 inches

Weight: male: 60, female: 50 lbs

Country Of Origin: Afghanistan

Dynamics: Intelligent, confident, sometimes stubborn. In general, Afghans can be very stand-offish and are sometimes wary of strangers.

Afghan Collie

Thursday, May 29th, 2008

Afghan Collie

Description: The Afghan Collie is not a purebred dog. It is a cross between the Afghan Hound and the Border Collie. A swift sighthound, the Afghan Collie was discovered by the Western World in Afghanistan during the 19th century. The first Afghan Collies were brought to England in the latter part of that century by British military personnel returning from the India-Afghanistan border wars. They were a hunting dog in their native land. They get along well with children and other dogs.

Temperament: They are very active, sociable, very friendly, intelligent easy to learn things . Also, they are independent, cheerful and clever dog.

Activity: This breed requires long walk daily. They always love to play.This breed usually performs well in obedience trials and agility competitions

Grooming: They need a great deal of grooming. Their hair should be brushed a couple of times in a week to avoid tangles. The hair of a Afghan Collie should be parted along the back and their ears should always be clean.

Breed Group: Designers group dog

Color: lack, blue, slate-colored, reddish-brown, all shades of grey with white markings on the nose, chest, legs, and feet or neck. The white markings are not permitted beyond the shoulder

Height: 53 – 56cm (20 ¾ - 22in) for dogs and 51 – 53cm (20 – 20 ¾ in) for bitches

Weight: 500-2,500g (1-5 1/2lb)

Country Of Origin: Western World in Afghanistan

Dynamics: They are very intelligent easy to train but doesn’t like to be pressured. They are calm and very friendly to others or even among other pets. Also very active and playful always.

Basenji

Wednesday, May 28th, 2008

AKA: African Bush Dog, African Barkless Dog, Ango Angari, Avuvi, Congo Dog, Zande Dog, The Jumping Up And Down Dog, Voiceless Dog

BasenjiDescription: The Basenji is a small athletic dog that is about the size of a fox terrier. While its coat may range from copper, red, black, tan, and brindle, its feet are usually white together with the chest and the tip of the tail. There are some Basenjis that have white legs and white collars too.

The Basenji’s forehead is furrowed with wrinkles. It has straight ears, small almond-shaped eyes, and a flat skull. The back is level and the legs are long with muscular thighs.

The Basenji doesn’t like to bark, but it has various unusual vocalizations which it uses depending on its mood. Its gait is horse-like and distinctive.

Dynamics: The Basenji is affectionate and energetic, although demanding at times. It is a curious dog and loves to play, which makes it a good pet. It is very intelligent and patient, and responds well to training. However, the Basenji can be aloof with other people. It cannot be trusted with non-canine pets.

The Basenji like to chew. It also like to climb trees and can easily get over wire fences. It is fast, frisky, and very energetic and teasing. Problems with the Basenji include their dislike of wet weather, and an unattended strong desire to play.

The Basenji is prone to problems concerning its health. It is prone to Fanconi’s syndrome, concerning kidney problems. It is also vulnerable to progressive retinal atrophy, intestinal, and eye problems.

Breed Group: Southern, Hound

Weight: males 22-26 lbs (10-12 kg), females 20-25 lbs (9-11 kg)

Height: males 16-17 inches (41-43 cm), females 15-16 inches (38-41 km)

Color: The Basenji’s coat can be copper, red, black and tan, black and brindle.

Country of Origin: The Basenji is one of the most ancient dog breeds. The first traces of a dog similar to the Basenji are found in the Egyptian tombs and walls. The breed almost disappeared when the Europeans found them in Congo, hence named as Congo Dogs.

Activities: The Basenji has a tendency to be fat and lazy. It should have a vigorous and consistent exercise.

Other Info: The Basenji’s life expectancy is about 10-12 years. Unlike other dogs, the Basenji washes itself like a cat and has no doggie smell. This would contribute to the point that very little grooming is needed for Basenjis and that they are suitable for people with allergies. The Basenji can be raised in an apartment as long as it receives its daily exercise. Being in the company of other Basenjis also makes its day!

Barbet

Wednesday, May 28th, 2008

AKA: French Water Dog

BarbetDescription: The Barbet can be said to be the original source various water dog breeds like the Poodle and the American Water Spaniel. It got its name from the the French word barbe which means “beard.”

Dynamics: The Barbet is considered to be companionable, joyful, obedient and intelligent.

Breed Group:Gun Dog, Sporting

Weight: 17-28 kg

Height: males 58-65 cm, females 53-61 cm

Color: black, chestnut (brown), fawn, grey, and white; mixed colors in the past

Country of Origin: France

Activities: The Barbet is at its best when retrieving in a waterfowl hunt. The breed is used for field trials in Germany and only water trials in France.

Other Info: The Barbet must be groomed regularly because their coats grow long. The coat is said to be hypoallergenic. If ungroomed, the barbet may loose small tufts of hair.

Affenpinscher

Tuesday, May 27th, 2008

AKA: Monkey Dog Affenpinscher

Description: The Affenpinscher is the smallest of the pinschers and schnauzer. It originated in Germany as the dog that makes people laugh and can be traced back as far as the seventeenth century as a method of controlling rodents. Affenpinschers are well balanced, little, wiry-haired terrier-like toy dog with intelligence and demeanor that make it them a good house pet. The Affenpinschers comical face earned it its name; German for “monkey-like terrier.” In France the Affenpinscher is described as the “diablotin moustachu” or the “moustached little devil.” Extremely intelligent and affectionate with people, the naturally scruffy-look of the Affenpinscher makes it appealing. Affenpinschers carry their head with confidence, their skull is round and domed, ears can be erect, semi-erect, dropped or cropped erect. Affenpinschers tail is naturally long and curves over their back, it can be docked or carried erect. The Affenpinscher is an active, adventurous, curious, and stubborn, but they are also fun-loving and playful. The Affenpinscher breed is confident, lively, affectionate towards family members and also very protective of them. The Affenpinscher is a loyal little dog who enjoys being with their family.

Temperament: The Affenpinscher’s personality is very similar to that of a typical terrier. Unlike most terriers, however, Affenpinschers are more inclined to socialize and get along with other pets. Affenpinschers are persistent, curious, and extremely playful by nature. They have a mischievous streak, but they are quick-witted and responsive to commands. Some Affenpinschers might be difficult to housebreak, but other than that, they are a breed that’s comparatively easy to train. Because of their animated personality and propensity to become bored, Affenpinschers like variety in their daily routines. While Affenpinschers are very loving pets and enjoy being with their families, they are not recommended for families with small children. This is because Affenpinschers frequently guard their food and are protective of their toys. Instinctually courageous and confident, Affenpinschers might foolishly challenge a large animal or get overly excited when threatened. They are a dog that does best with a family that will appreciate their humorous antics.

Activity: Affenpinschers do well in any environment. They don’t need a yard, and they will do just fine in an apartment. They are very playful indoors. Hot weather conditions c an wreak havoc on an Affenpinscher’s coat and make it more difficult for them to breathe properly. They love to play outside and like to dig. They are not as likely to get into mischief if they get to run and play several times a day in the yard.

Grooming: Brushing its coat once or twice a week would keep them in good condition. And it would help minimize shedding. Its coat may need to be stripped every few months and would also require to be clipped to make it look good.

Health Problems: Their life span is around 12 – 14 years. Because they are a quite healthy breed. Their most common health problems would be heart murmurs, Legg Perthes, luxating patella, and kidney problems.

Breed Group: Terrier, AKC Toy

Color: The coat is usually black or dark gray, but tan and red are also acceptable.

Height: 10-15 inches (25-38 cm.)

Weight: 7-8 pounds (3-3.36 kg.)

Country Of Origin: Germany

Dynamics: Playful, affectionate, very good watch dogs. Affens are usually wary of strangers and do not make friends with visitors to your home easily. They must be well socialized early before it becomes a problem.

Afador

Tuesday, May 27th, 2008

Afador

Description: The Afador are is a cross between the Afghan Hound and the Labrador Retriever. They have a very long, fine coat. The hair on the face is short. Any color is accepted but the most common colors are red through to shades of beige, often with a darker mask A Hunter, racing dog, a companion and also a watchdog. This breed is an independent, proud and noble dog. Indoors they are very calm but very active outdoors. It is in their blood to chase anything that runs o moves quickly. Their breed is brave, vigilant, not noisy and cautious with strangers. The males can try to dominate them. They can get along well with children but much better with older ones as long as they are not pestered or is just left alone in its own territory.

Activity: It needs an expert to train them since they are difficult to train due to their independent nature so they will never be consistently obedient. Hitting and shouting at them is not a good for them to attain their respect rather they need to be treated like human. a firm yet soft hand will put them in good mood. They need a lot of exercise everyday. Bicycling with the dog every day will be best to get rid of its energy, but do not forget their hunting instinct. Only allow an Afghan to run freely off the leash where it cannot run off.

Grooming: Their coat needs a full grooming at least twice each week. The best method would be to Combine their hair from the skin outwards to prevent tangles but be careful not to break any of their hairs and always keep their ears clean. This breed needs a thorough grooming so owning them requires you to have enough time for them.

Health Problems: low pain tolerance, thereby suffering even with minor injuries and also Prone to hip and elbow dysplasia, PRA and eye disorders. Life span is about 10-12 years

Breed Group: Hound Group and Designer group dog

Color: common color is black but they can also be black and white

Height: The shoulder-height is 68-74cm (26 3/4-29 1/2in) for dogs and 63-69cm (24 3/4-27 1/4in) for bitches

Weight: Varies with height

Country Of Origin: Alaska

Dynamics: They are an independent, a genius breed. Very calm indoors but fast and active outdoors. They are brave, and vigilant, not noisy, and cautious with strangers. By instinct, they will chase anything that moves quickly.

Abruzzenhund

Monday, May 26th, 2008

AKA: Maremma Sheepdog, Abruzzese Shepherd DogAbruzzenhund

Description: The Abruzzenhund is a massive breed, noble distinctive-looking dog with a bear-like head. They have strong jaws wih scissor bite. They have coarse hair which grows in whorls. Their black nose often becomes slightly pink brown with age. Usually their coat is in plain black but others are russet brown and grey markings. Their ears are in v-shaped, pointed and small. The eyes are not that large and have a lively and intelligent expression, The nasal canal is straight. It is necessary to pluck their coat. Usually done by trimming them. Hair should not be clipped since it will ruin the coat for many years. Hair sometimes grow in the corners of their eyes that should be dealt promptly because it can cause irritation. Their tail is low set and thickly feathered with dense hair. The deep, well-rounded ribcage extends to the elbows. The long, harsh, and very abundant hair has a slight wave. The under-coat is dense.

Temperament: This is a friendly and well-balanced flock guardian breed. They are very loyal and brave, They will fight for protection. Thus, this makes them a vey detemined and excellent guard dog without being a constant barker. It is most described as affectionate but not dependent dog. This breed is not a dog that will follow your every command submissively and certainly not if it cannot see the point to it. It is very intelligent and its education and training require mutual respect in handling and voice, and above all, consistency. They are friendly to other dogs.and can be slightly reserved with strangers but not strongly so. People who are not welcome on your property will be stopped in their tracks. The Maremma is not as large as many of its fellow flock guards, but he still possesses comparable endurance and strength, as well as the ability to make up for the extra 50 pounds it lacks. It is alert and independent. A flock guard of impressive dominance and lifelong dedication, the breed takes control over its flock and human family. As a pet, they are not very attached or overly outgoing. Nevertheless, this rugged wolf-slayer breed has adapted into a marvelous companion, without loosing its extraordinary working abilities. It will defend both house and master, and it is particularly attentive with children. The Maremma is a marvelous sheepdog and loves its work. It is a terrible enemy of the wolf, but tame with man. Held in high esteem by shepherds, especially in the mountains where it thrives in the snow; resistant to both cold and brambles. For several decades, it also achieved success as a companion dog. This is due to the fact that English breeders have developed dogs of excellent character. The Maremma is a friendly and well-balanced flock guardian. Sober and dignified. This loyal, brave, and determined dog makes an excellent guard-dog without being a constant barker. It is correctly described as affectionate but not dependent. This breed is not a dog that will follow your every command submissively and certainly not if it cannot see the point to it. It is very intelligent and its education and training require mutual respect in handling and voice, and above all, consistency. It gets along with other dogs and pets and can be slightly reserved with strangers but not strongly so. People who are not welcome on your property will be stopped in their tracks. The Maremma is not as large as many of its fellow flock guards, but he still possesses comparable endurance and strength, as well as the ability to make up for the extra 50 pounds it lacks. It is alert and independent. A flock guard of impressive dominance and lifelong dedication, the breed takes control over its flock and human family. As a pet, they are not very attached or overly outgoing. Nevertheless, this rugged wolf-slayer breed has adapted into a marvelous companion, without loosing its extraordinary working abilities. It will defend both house and master, and it is particularly attentive with children. The Maremma is a marvelous sheepdog and loves its work. It is a terrible enemy of the wolf, but tame with man. Held in high esteem by shepherds, especially in the mountains where it thrives in the snow; resistant to both cold and brambles. For several decades, it also achieved success as a companion dog. This is due to the fact that English breeders have developed dogs of excellent character.

Activity: They are lively, cheerful, friendly, alert, dependent, and sharp-witted. They are a fast learner breed and they can be trained consistently. Provided they should be taught vaeity of drill for them not to get bored. They are not suitable for apartment life. And once they get enough exercise they will be calm indoors. They are used to wide open spaces like yards. They need to be taken on brisk, a short walk around the block thrice a day. walk daily Their all weathered coat allows them to sleep outdoors but they are not well suited for a very hot weather they should be provided with plenty of shades and a large bowl of water on hot days.It must have frequent opportunities to run free. When it gets enough exercise, freedom and space, it will be quiet in the house.

Grooming: An extra care is needed when the dog is shedding. Also,they need to be combed and brushed very well to remove all dead hair.

Health Problems: With such a small genetic pool, health problems such as inversion of the eyelids (entropion) can develop. Life span is 12-15 yrs.

Breed Group: Working

Color: They can vary in color including white, ivory, lemon, and orange.

Height: 23.5-28.5 inches (60-73 cm.)

Weight: 66-100 pounds (30-45 kg.)

Country Of Origin: Italy

Dynamics: They are very energetic breeds, a genius one easy to train and a very playful and is always very sociable.

Banter Bulldogge

Monday, May 26th, 2008

Banter BulldoggeDescription: Powerfully built, athletic, and muscular, the Banter Bulldogge is a strong working dog with a bully build. Its head is square and muscular, with a pronounced stop between the skull and muzzle. The top of the skull is mostly flat. The Banter Bulldogge possesses strong jaws and impressive canines. Its bite should be slight under bite. It has round almond eyes set with a wrinkled brow.

The neck of the Banter Bulldogge is well-muscled and thick. The chest is impressive and meets well with the elbows; it should appear square. The back has a slight arch and finishes with a high set tail. The shoulders are powerful and the front legs are muscular. The Banter Bulldogge’s legs stubby or lanky, rather they are muscular, made for strong bouncing leaps and great pulling power. The feet of the Banter Bulldogge should be compact and with strong pasterns. As to the coat, is it short and smooth. The Banter Bulldogge also has short ears that may be cropped.

Dynamics: The Banter Bulldogge is easy to train and is very obedient. It will make for a good watchdog and has a good bark, helping with raising an alarm in case of trespassers.

When properly socialized, the Banter Bulldogge is fine with other dogs. It will get along very well with children and is very loyal to its family. The Banter Bulldogge has a lower energy level indoors than outdoors, and needs a good walk outside from time to time. This dog is eager for play time but it is smart to know when play time is over.

Breed Group: Working

Weight: males 50-85 pounds (26-37 kg), females 50-75 pounds (26-34 kg)

Height: males 21-24 inches (54-60 cm), females 20-23 inches (51-54 cm)

Color: Fawn, black, red, brindle of all types, with or without black mask; all colors can be with minimal white (up to 30%)

Country of Origin: The Banter Bulldogge was developed by Todd Tripp of Southeast Ohio in the late 1990s. With the inspiration to recreate the Brabanter Bullenbesser of the 1700s, Tripp combined boxers and various other working bull breeds to create the Banter Bulldogge.

Activities: Banter Bulldogges need daily work or exercise to keep fit and healthy. They also enjoy fetch games and other plays.

Other Info: The Banter Bulldogge has a life expectancy of about 12-13 years. It can be raised in an apartment as long as it can have its daily workouts or exercises. Bathe only when necessary to avoid removing natural oils from the skin. Brush its coat from time to time to remove excess hair.

Yorkshire Terrier

Friday, May 23rd, 2008

AKA: YorkieYorkshire Terrier

Description: The Yorkshire Terrier is a long-haired toy terrier whose blue and tan coat is parted on the face and from the base of the skull to the end of the tail and hangs evenly and quite straight down each side of the body. They are a small and well-balanced breed, having square proportions. They have naturally erect ears, a black nose, and a flat and small skull. The puppies of Yorkshire Terriers are born black and tan, but soon gain more adult colors as they get older. Newborn Yorkshire Terriers are born black in color with tan on the eyebrow, jaws, chest and feet. They are fully mature in two years. The Yorkie (Yorkshire Terrier) is one of the world’s smallest dogs and should not exceed 7 lbs in weight. Yorkshire Terriers may be tiny but they are a big-dog in a little-dog package. The Yorkie is an intelligent and confident pet. They are spirited and spunky, affectionate and lively. Although small, they are still terriers! They can be scrappy, courageous and assertive. They get along with everyone, but they may get nippy if not trained or socialized correctly. Yorkshire Terriers are compact in size, sweet in nature and cheerful in character.

Temperament: Yorkshire Terriers are intelligent, confident, and affectionate. Lively and spirited, the Yorkshire Terrier is no wimp. They do sound the alarm if the need be, and though small can be hardy. They are brave and self-assured, and posses the typical terrier attitude. They are devoted, assertive, and courageous. They can be demanding and/or nippy if they are not correctly socialized or trained, and should be kept from children if this is the case. does best with an only child and no roughhousing or hectic activity. hey should be even tempered and co-exist peacefully with other breeds.

Activity: Very High. This little breed has a lot of energy to use, and fortunately a small amount of room is needed for this. They are good for apartment life and active indoors and would be fine for them even without a yard. Yorkies needed a daily walk and loves to play. That could be the best form of exercise for them. Also, they enjoy a good romp in a secured area.

Grooming: Even though they have silky and lustrous coat, their grooming requirements is just low. Brush them several times a week and trim the hair around the bottom for hygiene purposes. And trim the coat as well to keep it from trailing on the ground. They are light shedders kind of breed.

Health Problems: Their life span is around 12-15 years, Some health problems Some hrealth problems they might encounter are: luxating patella, liver problems, inflamed pancreas, low blood sugar, allergies, dental problems, and sensitivity to chemicals and drugs. He does not fare well in cold weather and should be provided with a jumper if out and about in the rain or cold. He must also be protected from rough handling and heavy object because of his size and fragility.

Breed Group: Terrier, AKC Toy

Color: Dark steel blue from back of head to root of their tail. Face, chest and feet are bright tan.

Height: 6 - 9 inches

Weight: 3 - 7 lbs. They should not exceed 7 lbs.

Country Of Origin: Great Britain

Dynamics: The Yorkshire Terrier has an independent and lively spirit, but it is also a very loyal companion and a good watchdog. He loves to run and play around.

West Highland White Terrier

Friday, May 23rd, 2008

AKA: Westie, Poltalloch Terrier, Roseneath TerrierWest Highland White Terrier

Description: The West Highland White Terrier (Westie) is a small well-balanced hardy looking terrier, exhibiting good showmanship. They are elegant looking with a beautiful, shiny white coat and bright, button eyes, shaggy eyebrows and a black nose. Their fur around the face is bristly, which gives the dog a rounded face. Their skin is black or pink, but fur is white. Their tails resemble that of an inverted carrot, and is never docked. They have hard, 2 inch long fur that is cut longer around the legs and belly. They have a double coat that is harsh and straight and about 2 inches long, with a wiry outer coat and a soft, close, furry undercoat. The coat is bristly and stands off around the face, making the face appear rounded. With natural prick ears, some Westies keep their ears down around their owners to show submittal. An intelligent dog who learns quickly, the West Highland White Terriers love human companionship and will play with their family indoors or out. Their size makes them great for an apartment but they are just as at home in the country. They are a hardy breed, capable of playing with children and other dogs. West Highland White Terriers make great companions for children of all ages. Easygoing, active, responsive and friendly are all the ingredients for making a Westie. They are one of the most popular breed of dogs today.

Temperament: West Highland White Terriers are active, assertive, fun-loving, well-behaved and light-hearted. They are alert and friendly. Being stable, they love to play and will do so with each other or with you. They are courageous, self-reliant and have good self-esteem. They can be independent but mostly rely on their families for love and affection, two things they severely need. They like to dig in the yard and should be trained to avoid this, as they also will kill any vermin they find around the house. Some Westies may not be good with children, as some are more picky than others for a companion. They generally get along well with other dogs and if trained, with other pets such as cats. West Highland White Terriers need consistent attention, exercise and mental stimulation or else they will become lazy and out of shape. If given the opportunity, the Westie will sit on your lap or next to you and enjoy your petting for hours.

Activity: Indoor & Outdoor  is very high, unless they are ignored. West Highland White Terrier will do well as an apartment dweller if they are walked at least once or twice a day, though they will always enjoy having the freedom to play in a yard. West Highland White Terriers do best with human or canine companionship.

Grooming: They need regular brushing two to three times a week to help keep their white coat clean. Monthly bathing is necessary for a clean coat as well. Minimal trimming is needed if they are just a pet. If you plan to show them, they will also need trimming, plucking and stripping of the coat.
Health Problems: This breed is healthy and robust. There may be some problems with skin allergies, patellar luxation, hernias, cranio mandibular osteopathy (lion jaw), deafness and congenital heart disease. They can also be susceptible to atopy, cataracts, copper toxicosis, enzyme deficiency, inguinal hernia, and Legg-Perthes disease. They are a long lived breed their life span is around 15 + years

Breed Group: Terrier, AKC Terrier

Color: All white, no other colors, or else they’d be called Cairn Terrier.

Height: 10 - 11 inches.

Weight: 15 - 22 lbs.

Country Of Origin: Scotland

Dynamics: Alert, courageous, self-confident, high-energy, playful and friendly. Good watchdog.