Author: Dogs of Britain

The Plott Hound is the official State Dog of North Carolina. This remarkable breed is prized for its hunting and tracking abilities. Today we’re going to look into the background of the Plott Hound.

Plott Hound Breed Standards:
Kennel Club Member?: No
Plott Hound Lifespan: 12-14 years
Plott Hound Exercise: Over 1 hour per day
Height: Male 20-25 inches, female 20-23 inches
Weight: Male 23-27 kilograms, female 18-25 kilograms
Hypoallergenic: No

The Plott Hound is not recognised by the Kennel Club here in the United Kingdom, however, they were first exhibited at the Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show in 2008. This scenthound was initially bred for bear hunting over 200 years ago. The North American breed is rare in the UK but still used for hunting, typically in North America.

This scenthound is one of the few that doesn’t trace its ancestry back to the English Foxhound. Plott Hounds are also the only non-British Coonhounds. Most Hounds were primarily imported into the United States via England, France and Ireland for fox hunting. Unlike the Plott Hound which was developed in North Carolina.

Characteristics

Below are the pros and cons of the Plott hound dog breed:

Positives:

• Easy to groom
• Low shedding coat
• Doesn’t drool excessively
• Loyal to their families, protective guard dog

Negatives:

• Strong prey drive
• Requires lots of exercise
• Independent, strong wanderlust potential
• Doesn’t tolerate cold weather well

Plott Hounds have an athletic build and are both agile and muscular. They hunt well independently or in a pack. The breed is found in all shades of Brindle and features a long tail and glossy coat. Unlike other scenthounds, this breed doesn’t have baggy skin.

Temperament

Plott Hounds are aggressive hunters and work in packs. So, it should be no surprise that this breed holds a strong prey drive. The Plott Hound is not recommended to first-time dog owners. They’re also unsuited to apartment living and do best when raised in the countryside as opposed to the city.

The Plott Hound has webbed feet making this breed an exceptional swimmer! They’re affectionate, loyal, and protective of their families. Like most members of the Hound family, the Plott Hound is independent and stubborn. They’re highly intelligent and won’t forget a dog or person that’s crossed them!

Plott Hounds are great guard dogs. They’re protective of their homes and territory and will bark at strangers approaching their domain. Plott Hounds won’t hesitate to protect their family if they sense danger. The breed is aloof towards strangers and will need early socialization to prevent fear-based reactions.

This breed is suited to families with older children. Plott Hound dogs will be affectionate and protective over the children in their household. This breed could become food aggressive so it’s important owners tackle this at the very beginning, especially when there are children in the home.

Plott Hounds that are bred to hunt large game are known to be more aggressive than those that hunt smaller game. As this breed hunts in packs, they do better in homes with other dogs. They are typically social with dogs outside their household but can be dominant towards those of the same sex.

Plott Hound History

The Plott Hound originates from Germany and is a descendant of the Hanover Hound. Their ancestors were initially bred for Boar hunting due to their stamina. Plott Hounds have the skills to hunt large game such as Boar, Mountain Lions and Bears. They’re also suited to hunting smaller game such as racoons.

In the late 18th century Georg (Johannes) Plott (1733-1815) migrated to North Carolina from Germany with his wife Margaret. He also brought with him five Hanoverian Hounds and although there are no official records stating where he lived, his son Henry settled in the mountains of western North Carolina.

Both the Plott Hound and the Plott Balsams (a mountain range in western North Carolina) were named after the Plott family. The breed was developed in North Carolina and trained to hunt bears by Johannes. The Hanoverian Schweisshund strain was kept pure until 1780.

It was in this year, that the pack of Hounds were passed down to Johannes’ son Henry Plott. He decided to breed the Hanover Hounds to local dogs, producing a large game hunter we now know today as the Plott Hound. Originally named ‘Plott’s Hound’.

There are six Coonhound members which include the Carolina Plott Hound. The only non-British member of the group and the last to be recognised in 1946. The breed is not registered with the Kennel Club but did receive its AKC recognition back in 2006.

Exercise & Grooming

The Plott Hound requires at least one hour of exercise each day, but they could definitely do with much longer! Thanks to their webbed feet this breed is a great swimmer. Swimming is a fantastic form of exercise! Plott Hounds also require lots of mental stimulation and this scenthound needs time to investigate the smells around them.

This breed requires a garden and is best suited to the countryside. Due to their strong prey drive, gardens must be securely fenced. Thanks to their intelligence and agility, this breed is an excellent escape artist. They’ll dig and even climb their way out of an enclosed space if they find a way!

Plott Hounds should also be kept on a leash unless in a remote area or enclosed dog pen. Despite their high energy levels, the Plott Hound won’t make a good jogging partner as their nose will easily divert them! A long walk twice a day will keep this breed satisfied. A lack of exercise will result in boredom leading to destructive behaviours.

A Plott Hound has a thick, yet smooth, fine coat. It’s low maintenance and requires a quick weekly brush once a week. The best tools to use are soft-bristle brushes or a Hound glove. To prevent doggy odour, the Plott Hound should receive a bath every 6+ weeks.

This breed has long ears that assist their tracking abilities. They’ll need frequent cleaning, especially after a wet and muddy walk. Debris should be removed from the ear canal weekly. Failure to do so could cause ear infections. Trim their nails fortnightly and brush their teeth at least three times a week.

Health

Below are the breed-related health conditions of the Plott Hound:

Gastric Dilatation Volvulus (Bloat): A life-threatening condition typically caused by large meals that lead the stomach to dilate. The stomach twists trapping the contents and gases within.
Hip Dysplasia: One or both of the hip joints develop abnormally causing swelling, pain, lameness, and eventually arthritis. This condition is typically inherited.

Plott Hound Training

Although independent the Plott Hound is eager to please which helps ease training. Experienced dog owners are recommended for this breed. Their leader must be firm yet patient, a timid dog owner will quickly be dominated by the Plott Hound.

Positive reinforcement works best with this breed and early socialization is a must. Harsh training techniques will enhance this breed’s stubborn side. Plott Hounds are known to be forgetful so repetition is key. If there’s an older dog in the household, the Plott Hound will typically follow their lead.

Group puppy classes are a great way to socialize a Plott Hound puppy whilst learning basic commands. This guard dog can be wary of strangers so it’s important they are socialized with humans to prevent fear-based reactions. A lack of proper training will lead to dominance and aggression issues.

Plott Hound Interesting Facts

• Plott Hounds have ‘a big bawl mouth’. This can be described as an exceptionally long bark. A trait often found amongst Hounds.
• In 2007, Bob Plott the third great-grandson of Johannes Plott published a book on the breed. It’s called The Story of the Plott Hound: Strike & Stay. His website can be found here!
• In 1989, the Plott Hound became the official State Dog of North Carolina!
• In 2009 a champion show dog Hosker’s Georgie Boy was stolen! Joi Hosker left her Plott Hound with a kennel to visit her ill mother. Upon her arrival back home, she was told her dog had gone missing, something she did not believe. In actual fact, her Plott Hound was sold to a bear hunter. Georgie Boy was injured during a bear hunt, leading the man to look for a new Plott Hound in case he did not make it. Whilst searching, he came across a missing poster and suspected the dog he bought was stolen. After 8 months Joi finally had her dog back and Georgie Boy went on to become the third-best Plott Hound in America.
• Things can go wrong when this breed is placed in the wrong hands. In 2020 Melaka, Malaysia a 7-day old newborn baby had her hand bitten off by her uncle’s Plott Hound after being left alone with the dog. Authorities state the uncle had no license to own the Plott Hound (as required for Plott Hounds under Malaysian law) and it’s believed action will be taken against the owner.

The Bichon Frise is one of Britain’s most popular small breeds. Today, we’re going to learn all about the Bichon Frise personality, health, history, exercise needs and more!

Bichon Frise Breed Standards
Kennel Club Member?: Yes
Bichon Frise Lifespan: 14-15 years
Bichon Frise Exercise: Up to 30 minutes per day
Height: 9.5-11.5 inches
Weight: 5-8 kilograms
Hypoallergenic: Yes

The Bichon Frise is known widely for its white curly coat. A member of the toy group, the Bichon is one of the most popular small dog breeds here in the UK. Thanks to their hypoallergenic and low shedding coat, this breed is better suited to those with allergies.

Bichons are also memorable after featuring in Belgian author Herge’s comic series The Adventures of Tintin. Snowy, the dog is a Bichon Frise but is originally known as Milou by the French. Bichons have a deep and enriched history featuring in many famous paintings across history including the works of Titian, Sir Joshua Reynolds and Francisco de Goya.

Characteristics

Check out the pros and cons of the Bichon Frise dog breed below:

Positives:

• Small breed, can live in an apartment
• Hypoallergenic, better choice for those with allergies
• Won’t require lots of exercise
• Social, friendly with other dogs
• Great with children
• Low drooler
• Suitable for older owners

Negatives:

• Coat is high maintenance
• Prone to separation anxiety
• Gains weight easier than other breeds
• Difficult to housebreak

The Bichon Frise dog is a small breed widely known for its remarkable white coat. Even their name Bichon translates to ‘white dog’! Frise describes the curls found on the Bichon. Their soft curls are often styled for presentation in the show ring.

Temperament

A Bichon Frise is loveable, affectionate and just as adorable as they look! This easy-going canine won’t require much exercise and can live in an apartment. Their sweet personality, lapdog status and sociable nature is a great choice for first-time dog owners.

Bichons require companionship and enjoy being the centre of attention. These dogs are energetic, cheerful, and gentle. A perfect well-rounded dog that’s easy to fall in love with! Their cuddly personality resembles their teddy like features.

This breed isn’t a great watchdog and won’t be on the alert ready to defend their territory. Bichons are polite and even playful with strangers. However, some Bichons may feel a little shy. Of course, this is dependent on socialization during a Bichons early years.

Bichons make excellent family dogs and are great with children of all ages. Their small size won’t be hazardous to kids and these social dogs enjoy playing interactive games with the younger members of their families. Affectionate and playful, a Bichon Frise is a fantastic companion for children.

Bichons love making new friends and get along well with other dogs! They’ll happily introduce themselves to other dogs in the park engaging in friendly play! Bichons are gentle and can live with other household pets including cats. It’s always best for house pets to be raised together as opposed to an introduction during adulthood.

Bichon Frise History

The Bichon Frise is an ancient breed believed to have been introduced to Tenerife by Spanish seamen. Bichons were a part of the Barbichon types which also included the Havanese, Bolognese, and the Maltese. Their ancestor the Bichon Tenerife was the most popular of the group amongst sailors.

Bichons were used by the Spanish as sailing and even herding dogs, whilst the French developed the breed into a lapdog. By the 13th century, the Bichon became popular with European nobles. They were prized by the Royal Families of Spain, Italy and France and were prominent during the Rennaisance period. Their coat was trimmed into a ‘lion style’ and the Bichon would be pampered and carried around in a basket.

In 1789 the arrival of the French Revolution saw many Bichons lose their privileged status. Many were put onto the streets. They soon found solace amongst street performers, earning their keep by performing tricks! Bichons would also perform at the circus and funfair.

During the reign of Napoleon III of France in the late 19th century, the Bichon was such a common dog, it’d be found wandering the streets. The Bichon Frise’s official breed standard was produced on the 5th March 1933. They were originally named the Bichon À Poil Frisé but this was then shortened.

In 1955, the first Bichon Frise was imported to America with the first US-born litter arriving a year later. Bichons quickly grew in popularity across the United States and the United Kingdom. In 2001 and 2018, a Bichon Frise won the Best in Show title at the Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show!

Exercise & Grooming

A Bichon Frise dog doesn’t require much exercise. Thirty minutes per day is usually enough. This small breed can easily wear itself out in the garden. Interactive games like fetch are both tiresome and mentally stimulating. Bichon Frise is also suited to living in apartments.

Other forms of mental stimulation include dog sports and despite the Bichon’s cute looks, they make excellent competitors. In particular, this breed excels in agility, rally, and obedience. Keep their brains ticking over indoors by playing games of hide and seek and treat puzzle toys.

This breed’s coat is high maintenance, of course! It’ll require daily grooming to keep it in good condition. A pin brush and slicker brush are the best tools to use. Ideally, a Bichon should receive a bath monthly, unless they’re exceptionally dirty. The fur is thick so wash right down to the skin and ensure all shampoo is thoroughly rinsed out.

To prevent tear staining, trim the fur around the eyes and nose frequently. Owners should remove any crust or dirt around the eyes daily. Use cotton wool and plain water. To remove tear stains already set in, some Bichon owners have found a baking soda paste to be of help.

Ears will need a weekly clean to prevent debris from building up. Nails should be trimmed fortnightly. Smaller breeds are prone to dental issues therefore teeth should be brushed daily.

Health

Check out the breed-related health conditions of the Bichon Frise below:

Cataracts- An inherited condition that causes an abnormal cloudiness after a change in lens. If the opacity is large enough light to the retina will be blocked, resulting in blindness over time.
Luxating Patellas- The kneecap temporarily falls out of position before relocating back into place.
Bladder Stones- Minerals form into small rocks within the bladder ranging in both composition and size. Symptoms include straining when urinating, and blood in the urine.
Portosystemic Shunt- A liver shunt is caused by the abnormal connection between the systemic circulation and the portal vascular system. Blood vessels bypass the liver draining blood directly into circulation without being detoxified.
Diabetes Mellitus- The dog is unable to produce adequate amounts of insulin for the body’s cells. This will affect the dog’s fat, protein and carbohydrate metabolism.
Allergies- A lifelong condition causing itchy skin. Owners will have to learn to manage the condition as there is no cure.

Bichon Frise Training

This intelligent breed picks up on training quickly. Bichons can live happily in apartments and respond well to crate training. They love performing so keep a Bichon mentally stimulated by teaching them new tricks. Training sessions should last up to 15 minutes to prevent boredom.

The Bichon Frise is notorious for being difficult to housebreak. It’s important owners establish a routine to help aid potty training. Ideally, they should be let out every 2-3 hours and every 15 minutes after eating and drinking. Use positive reinforcement methods as this breed won’t do well with harsh techniques.

Early socialization is important for all dogs, especially smaller breeds. Fear-based reactions could result in aggressive behaviour so a Bichon Frise puppy should be introduced to a variety of people, dogs, and environments. Puppy training classes will help socialize dogs whilst teaching them basic commands.

The Bichon Frise is prone to separation anxiety when left alone for long periods. For this reason, they should be in a home where at least one person is indoors most of the day. Otherwise, they’ll resort to destructive behaviours. Bichon Frise owners must be consistent and dedicated to training.

Bichon Frise Interesting Facts

• In December 2021, Afro Ken, the Bichon Frise passed away two weeks after his 18th birthday. He is believed to have been Britain’s oldest Bichon Frise dog. He has beaten the record previously held by Nellie who passed away in Hastings aged 17! Afro Ken was born and raised in Minnesota, America before moving to the UK aged 12.
• In 2021, Viovet conducted a stidy into the laziest dog breeds and the Bichon Frise made the list! The breed alongside the Maltese were deemed to require less physical activity compared to others.
• Flynn the Bichon Frise, won Best in Show at the Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show in 2018! Flynn beat almost 3,000 other competitors to the top spot!
• Bella, a Bichon Frise from Willingdon, Eastbourne, has helped her owner Barry Coarse, a war veteran, overcome PTSD. Barry would suffer from night terrors and Bella would wake him up by licking his ear, then further calming him down by licking his neck. Bella is now an onwer-trained qualified assistance dog! She even won an award at the Soldiering On military event under the Animal Partnership category.
• Bleu, a Bichon Frise from Uddingston is also referred to as Houdini after his disappearing act! It took searchers including local police more than three and a half hours to find him!

Border Terriers are listed as one of Britain’s top 20 dog breeds! Hailing from the Anglo-Scottish Border, this loveable canine is also one of Britain’s oldest Terriers! Today we’re going to learn more about the Border Terrier.

Border Terrier Breed Standards
Kennel Club Member?: Yes
Border Terrier Lifespan: 12-15 years
Border Terrier Exercise: Up to 1 hour per day
Height: 12-15 inches
Weight: Male 6-7 kg, Female 5-6 kg
Hypoallergenic?: Yes

Border Terriers are the 2nd most popular members of the Terrier group. In the UK they ranked 12th with 4,587 Border Terrier puppy registrations in 2020. Staffordshire Bull Terriers take the top spot in the Terrier family with 5,010 puppy registrations that year.

Over the last decade Border Terriers have seen a steady decline in registration numbers with the Kennel Club. In 2011 there were 7,188 Border Terrier puppy registrations. However, the breed still hasn’t lost its spot on Britains top 20 dog breeds list!

Characteristics

Check out the pros and cons of the Border Terrier below:

Positives:

• Hypoallergenic breed, low shedding
• Suitable for apartment lifestyles
• Ideal for first time owners
• Family friendly dog, great with children
• Great watchdog, highly intelligent

Negatives:

• Stubborn streak
• Prone to weight gain
• Strong prey drive
• Prone to separation anxiety
• Vocal, likes to bark

The Border Terrier is a small breed with a rough coat and lots of personality. Their breed standard colours include Grizzle, Grizzle & Tan, Dark Grizzle, Dark Rizzle & Tan, Dark Red Grizzle, Light Grizzle, Red, Red Grizzle, Wheaten, and Blue & Tan.

Temperament

Small but mighty the Border Terrier won’t back down from a challenge. Like most Terriers, fearlessness is an inherited trait! Size means nothing to them but as the Border is smaller, it could land them in trouble with a much larger dog! However, this sociable canine is happy and friendly. Borders aren’t the type to instigate, but they’ll definitely finish it!

Loyal, loveable, energetic, and alert, the Border Terrier will make a fantastic companion. They have a unique personality and will keep their owner on their toes! Despite their stubborn streak this breed is intelligent and picks up on training well! Border Terriers are suited to first time owners.

Naturally, this breed is alert and will make a suitable watchdog, although their size isn’t suited for guard work! Borders will welcome strangers into their homes and will politely greet their guests. It’s important to socialize this breed well with strangers so they don’t resort to fear-based reactions.

Border Terriers are excellent family dogs and do well in homes with children! A child will find a forever friend in a Border! Although small this breed is sturdy, energetic, and a fantastic playmate for kids. Always supervise play in case things get a little too boisterous!

A well-socialized Border Terrier will enjoy being in the company of other dogs. They’ll quickly make friends in the dog park, politely introducing themselves to those who pass by. Border Terriers can live in homes with other dogs and also cats however, it’s best they’re raised together from puppyhood.

History

Border Terriers are one of Britain’s oldest Terrier breeds. They were developed along the border of Scotland and England by farmers and shepherds. An agile Terrier was needed to defend the sheep from the Hill Fox. Borders were small enough to fit into the dens of foxes but big enough to keep up with huntsmen on horses.

Their coat is wiry and weatherproof protecting them from the tough terrain. This breed was previously known as the Coquetdale and Redesdale Terrier the areas of which they originated. Their legacy, however, is attributed to Northumberland, where they became well-known fox hunters working alongside Hounds.

The Border Hunt is over 130 years old and covers the countryside from the River Rede to Jedburgh. It’s a controversial hunt that’s even seen members Timothy Allen and Shaun Anderson on trial for breaching Scotland’s fox hunting legislation.

The breed was also known to work as ratters on farms. Other prey included otters and badgers. Border Terriers were popular amongst the working-class and were typically used to hunt for work as opposed to sport. The breed will bolt after foxes and can also go to ground. Aggression is not a Border Terrier trait as they have to work alongside other dogs.

The Moss Trooper was the first Border Terrier to be registered with the Kennel Club in 1912. Unfortunately, the breed’s registration was rejected by the Kennel Club in 1914 but eventually granted in 1920. Their ancestry is shared with the Bedlington and Dandie Dinmont Terrier.

Exercise & Grooming

Energetic and playful, Border Terriers require up to one hour of exercise per day, but don’t be surprised if they want longer! Despite their small size, Border Terriers have fantastic stamina and can easily keep up with huntsmen on horseback! So they must participate in vigorous play.

Long walks across the countryside are thoroughly enjoyed but don’t forget they have a strong prey drive! Always keep them leashed unless in an enclosed space. Their gardens must be secure! Border Terriers love digging so ensure fences are fixed deep into the ground!

Border Terriers also require mental stimulation within their day. Otherwise, they could become bored and destructive. Dog sports is a great form of mental stimulation and the Border Terrier excels in a variety of categories. These include lure coursing, agility, tracking, flyball, and earthdog events.

As a hypoallergenic breed, the Border Terrier dog sheds minimal amounts. It’s advised to brush them once each day to remove any dead fur. Their coarse, short coats should never be clipped but hand stripped instead. Although some owners prefer a natural shaggy look.

Bathe Border Terrier dogs once a month minimum. Frequent washing can strip the coat from its natural oils. Every week the ears should be cleaned from debris. Nails will also need trimming. To maintain dental hygiene brush the teeth multiple times a week if not daily!

Health

Check out the breed-related health conditions of the Border Terrier below:

Patella Luxation: The kneecap moves out of position temporarily before returning back into position just as quick.
Canine Epileptoid Cramping Syndrome: Also known as Spike’s disease, this condition is hereditary and found in Border Terriers. It causes tremors, spasms, seizures and is similar to epilepsy.
SLEM Spongiform LeucoEncephaloMyelopathy: Shaking puppy syndrome has been seen in Border Terrier puppies since 2012. It’s a relatively new condition affecting the central nervous system.
Canine Gallbladder Mucocele: The accumulation of excessive and abnormal mucus in the gallbladder causing it to become enlarged.
Cushing’s Syndrome: This is caused by an excessive amount of the hormone cortisol produced by the adrenal glands found at the top of each kidney. Symptoms include excessive urination, thirst, lethargy, breathlessness, and an increase in appetite.

Border Terrier Training

Border Terriers may be one of the sweeter members of the Terrier family, but they still have a stubborn streak! Owners will need patience as a Border Terrier won’t be forced to cooperate. Luckily this breed is intelligent and a quick learner. They’re also eager to please, another bonus to training!

Keep training sessions to around 10-15 minutes and avoid constant repetition. Be firm but not harsh as Borders are sensitive. Positive reinforcement methods work best! First-time dog owners may benefit from professional training classes.

Borders are prone to separation anxiety and mustn’t be left alone for long periods of time. This breed will form a strong bond with its owner. If they feel anxious, worried, and lonely they’ll resort to destructive behaviours. At least one member of the household should stay home during the day.

Socialization is highly important for all members of the Terrier family. Their fearlessness and mentality of never backing down could cause behavioural issues if left untrained. Introduce a Border Terrier puppy to new people, dogs and places regularly throughout their lives.

Border Terrier Interesting Facts

• Border Terriers have been featured on the big screen plenty of times! Some of their movie titles include The Texas Chainsaw Massacre, Return to Oz, There’s Something About Mary, Prometheus, A most Violent Year and Cheaper by the Dozen.
• In the UK the Border Terrier Club was first established in 1920, making it Britain’s oldest breed club!
• Alfie the Border Terrier from Derbyshire, is allegedly the oldest of his breed at 17! He was born in 2005 and has broken the previous title held by Betty aged 15! Aflie is still lively and his age isn’t holding him back.
• Supervet Noel Fitzpatrick lost his Border Terrier named Keira on September 9th 2021. She lived until the age of 13. Keira almost lost her life last year after being ran over by a van, shattering her pelvis. Noel Fitzpatrick operated on her and gave her another year of life.
• Bella the Border Terrier has been bringing smiles to the patients at Gateshead hospital! Bella is a Pets As Therapy Dogs and frequently visits the Queen Elizabeth Hospital to help lift the spirits of those during their stay.

The Welsh Corgi is one of Britain’s most well-known dogs. They’re famously known as our Queen’s favourite breed, who is often surrounded by her faithful pack. Let’s take a look into Britain’s prized dog breed!

Pembroke Welsh Corgi Breed Standards:
Kennel Club Member?: Yes
Pembroke Welsh Corgi Lifespan: 12-13 years
Pembroke Welsh Corgi Exercise: Up to 1 hour per day
Height: 10-12 inches
Weight: Male up to 14 kilograms Female up to 13 kilograms
Hypoallergenic: No

The Pembroke Welsh Corgi is mostly recognized due to Queen Elizabeth II’s adoration of the breed. Since her accession to the throne in 1952, the Queen has owned over thirty Corgis! They’re often referred to as the Royal Corgis! Her fondness began after her father King George VI brought home Dookie, the Corgi.

There are two dog breeds listed under the name Welsh Corgi. The first is the Pembroke Corgi and the second is the Cardigan Welsh Corgi. The Pembroke Corgi is the youngest of the two. Both are achondroplastic breeds (dwarf) due to their long bodies and short legs.

Characteristics

Below are the pros and cons of the Pembroke Welsh Corgi:

Positives:

• Welsh Corgis can live in apartments
• Low wanderlust potential
• Easy to train
• Family friendly dog
• Therapy dog

Negatives:

• This breed is vocal and likes to bark
• Achondroplastic breed
• Sheds fur heavily
• Prone to weight gain
• May suffer from separation anxiety when left alone for long periods

The Pembroke Welsh Corgi is a medium-sized breed with a fox-like head and pointy ears. Their fur is typically lighter on the sides as the withers reduce in thickness. Coat colours consist of Fawn & White, Sable & White, Red & White and Tricolour.

Temperament

Now the Welsh Corgi may be a dwarf breed but their size shouldn’t underestimate their personality! This breed holds a unique personality and is also incredibly loyal. As the Pembroke Welsh Corgi is eager to please, they’re a good breed choice for first-time dog owners.

High in energy, the Welsh Corgi will need some form of vigorous exercise during the day. However, Corgis can live happily in an apartment provided their activity needs are being met. As this breed loves to be around their owner they have a low wanderlust potential.

The Welsh Corgi is often reserved with strangers but generally polite with household visitors. Alertness is a trait found in the Corgi so they make great watchdogs. Socializing a Corgi puppy is highly important as it’ll enable the dog to be more trusting of strangers in adulthood.

A Corgi is one of the more low-maintenance dog breeds and makes an excellent family dog. They’re great with children and are easy to train. Due to their herding background, they may display these types of behaviours towards children. Households with smaller children must be aware of this before bringing a Corgi puppy into the home.

Corgis do get along with other dogs but are a little warier than other breeds. They can happily live alongside other dogs in their household. The breed can be around cats but should be introduced during puppyhood. Regular socialization during their early years will prevent fear-based reactions.

Pembroke Welsh Corgi History

The Pembroke Welsh Corgi is one of Britain’s most famous dog breeds and originates from Pembrokeshire, Wales. Solidified in British history as Queen Elizabeth II’s faithful companions, the Pembroke Welsh Corgi is widely recognized across the world. The Royal Corgis even featured in a cover photo for Vanity Fair’s Summer 2016 Edition!

Legend has it that two children were playing in a field and stumbled across a pair of puppies. At first, they thought they were foxes but after taking them home, their parents quickly realised they were dogs! The parents told their children the dogs were gifted to them by fairies that lived in the field. The marks on the Corgis back represented the fairies saddle!

The foundation dogs of the Welsh Corgi arrived in Southwestern Wales in 1107. They were brought by Flemish Weavers from Northern Belgium who were invited to live and work in Wales by King Henry I. The Cardigan Welsh Corgi is a cousin of the Pembroke Corgi but is slightly bigger and longer. They also have smaller ears and straighter legs.

Welsh Corgis are herding dogs and were used for cattle, sheep and horses. They’d often be found working on farms. Traditionally, the Welsh Corgi was docked, however, since the ban, this is no longer being practised in the UK. This led to a drop in breed numbers landing the Welsh Corgi on the Vulnerable Native Breed list.

In 2020, Pembroke Welsh Corgi puppies had their highest KC registration period of the last decade. There were 887 puppy registrations that year compared to 371 Welsh Corgi puppy registrations in 2011. The Kennel Club believe the Netflix series The Crown is one main reason for the increase in popularity.

Exercise & Grooming

Welsh Corgis need up to one hour of exercise each day. If their exercise needs are being met, they can happily live in an apartment. As the Welsh Corgi is an achondroplastic breed their legs are susceptible to injury. Pembroke Welsh Corgi puppies shouldn’t be overexercised. Owners should be cautious of their joints until their growth plates are fully formed. This takes place around the ages of 9-12 months.

Due to their herding background, Welsh Corgis require lots of mental stimulation. Hide and seek with food treats, puzzle games and dog sports are some ways to do this. Welsh Corgis compete well in agility, showmanship, tracking, obedience, flyball and herding events.

This breed is used to hard work so some Corgis may still be high in energy. Although a dwarf breed, the Welsh Corgi can reach up to speeds of 25mph! They enjoy long walks or even a slow jog but aren’t quick enough to be a cycling partner!

Brush the Pembroke Welsh Corgi with a slicker brush once a day to remove any dead fur. During shedding seasons a rake will help remove the undercoat. The fur won’t need trimming and can be left natural during the summer months, despite the heat.

Corgis should be bathed every 4-8 weeks. Brush through the coat prior to it getting wet to avoid tangles. Ensure all shampoo is washed out of the fur to prevent skin irritation. Use a blow dryer to dry the coat as wet fur will pick up debris. Clean the ears weekly and trim the nails fortnightly.

Health

Below are the breed-related health conditions of the Pembroke Welsh Corgi:

Bladder Stones: A collection of minerals form in a dog’s bladder resulting in crystallised formations that could lodge in the urethra, preventing urination.
Hip Dysplasia: The hip joint develops poorly which will cause the ball and socket of the hip to rub and grind against each other. This will cause pain, lameness, inflammation and eventually arthritis.
Epilepsy: A common neurological condition causing unprovoked seizures in dogs.
Von Willebrand’s Disease: A blood platelet deficiency prevents the blood from clotting thus causing excessive bleeding.
Intervertebral Disc Disease: Discs separate the bones of the spine. IVDD is the degeneration of one or more of these discs. It’s an age-related condition that typically affects achondroplastic breeds such as the Pembroke Welsh Corgi.
Lens Luxation: An inherited condition mostly seen in Terrier breeds. The zonular fibres holding the lens in place are weakened causing the lens to wobble or fall out of place. It’s painful and could cause permanent blindness.
Cataracts: An opacity (cloudiness) in the lens of the eye. If large enough, it will block light from reaching the retina, leading to blindness.

Pembroke Welsh Corgi Training

Welsh Corgis are eager to please, an excellent trait that helps ease training. First-time owners are suitable for this breed. At 8 weeks a Welsh Corgi puppy can begin learning basic commands. Socialisation is another important part of training that should start at this age. Introduce Welsh Corgi puppies frequently to new people, places, and dogs.

Harsh training techniques won’t work on this canine! Patience, consistency and positive reinforcement methods are better suited to this breed. Pembroke Welsh Corgis are highly independent so it’s easy for them to break away from their training and display bad behaviours. Ensure they are never allowed to break the rules!

Corgis are relatively easy to housebreak. Dogs, in general, don’t like to potty in their sleeping areas. This natural instinct eases housebreaking although some breeds are more difficult than others. It’s best to set up a routine across the day with regular toilet intervals so a Corgi learns to follow this.

This breed is listed by the Kennel Club under the pastoral group. Their herding background can cause Welsh Corgi puppies to become excessively mouthy. Stop a Corgi from nipping at the heels, chewing and herding by disciplining and redirecting these behaviours.

Its important Corgis are taught respect training first. This should then be followed up with obedience training. Corgis must acknowledge their owner’s leadership position. If this breed is allowed to run rings around its owner, its behaviour will quickly spiral out of control.

Pembroke Welsh Corgi Interesting Facts

• The Pembroke Welsh Corgi is younger than the Caridgan Welsh Corgi which is around 2,000 years older making it one of Britain’s oldest breeds! Both have never collected the Best in Show title at the Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show.
• When translated the name Corgi means dwarf dog. In Welsh Cor stands for dwarf and gi for dog.
• The Queen’s Corgi and Netflix series the Crown is believed to be responsible for the 25% increase of Pembroke Welsh Corgi and Caridgan Welsh Corgi puppy registrations.
• Marcel, the Corgi from Greenwich, London boasts 140k followers on instagram and is growing in fame. He was once featured in a photo shoot with Helena Bonham-Carter. Even Queen Elizabeth II is a fan! Marcel is increasing in popularity and has even been stalked back to his own front door!
• Across the world Corgi Cafes are quickly becoming a firm favourite! These dog themed cafes even have Corgi puppies customers can pet and meet!
• Cinnamon, the Pembroke Welsh Corgi from Chicago hilariously tries to stop her owner from sneezing! The video quickly went viral with other Corgi owners stating theirs does the same thing!

The Chinese Shar Pei dog is one of the worlds most renowned dog breeds. Check out the guide below as we delve into the background of this unique and interesting canine. 

Chinese Shar-Pei Breed Standards:
Kennel Club Member?: Yes
Chinese Shar-Pei Lifespan: 8-12 years
Chinese Shar-Pei Exercise: Up to 1 hour per day
Height: 18-20 inches
Weight: 20-27 kilograms
Hypoallergenic: No

The Shar Pei is a Chinese dog breed widely recognised for its wrinkles. However, despite their looks, many are surprised to know the Shar Pei is closely related to the Spitz family. They share the same genetic group as the Chow Chow, Shiba Inu, and the Akita.  

In Hong Kong the traditional, less wrinkly Shar Peis more common than the wrinkly version seen in the West. This breed is highly popular in the Western world although breed numbers have decreased in the UK over the last 10 years. In 2011 2,061 Shar Pei puppies were registered with the KC compared to 2020 at 714.

Characteristics

Check out the pros and cons of the Shar-Pei below:

Positives:

• Ideal watchdog, protective of its family
• Independent can be left alone
• Minimal shedding
• Low wanderlust potential
• Quiet, not an excessive barker
• Suitable for apartment living

Negatives:

• Not very dog friendly
• Attracts a doggy odour
• Wrinkles need frequent cleaning
• A brachycephalic breed
• Tendency to chew, nip, and play bite more than other dogs

The Chinese Shar-Pei is a medium-sized dog that’s renowned for its wrinkly skin. Shar Pei also have blueish black tongues a unique characteristic also seen in the Chow Chow. Folded ears and a dark muzzle are also unique features of the Shar-Pei. Their double-coat is found in all solid colours with the exception of White.

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Shar Pei Temperament

A Chinese Shar-Pei is protective and devoted to its family members. They’re calm, independent and affectionate dogs but on occasion can be stubborn. This breed isn’t the best choice for first-time owners as a lack of training and socialization will lead to aggressive behaviour.

Shar Pei have a strong prey drive so may chase smaller dogs and animals. As an independent breed, the Shar Pei can tolerate being left alone and isn’t prone to separation anxiety. That being said, no dog can be left alone continuously as this is likely to lead to destructive behaviour.  

Shar-Pei are aloof and reserved around strangers. They prefer to keep their distance but Shar-Pei puppies must be thoroughly socialized with people to prevent territorial behaviour. The breed’s history plays a huge role in their natural suspicions of strangers and dogs today.

Introduce a Shar Pei to a family environment as a puppy. This breed is better suited to older children as they may nip and herd smaller children. It’s ill-advised to rehome an adult Shar Pei with children. This breed can tolerate kids and make loyal family pets. 

A Shar Pei isn’t prized for being sociable! Due to its fighting background, unless well-socialized, the Shar Pei isn’t too dog friendly. They’re not the sort to walk into the dog park on the lookout for playmates! Cats and dogs living in the same home as a Shar Pei should be raised together from puppyhood.  

History

The Shar-Pei originates from China with a history spanning over 2,000 years during the reign of the Han Dynasty. The breed was commonly owned by the working class as opposed to nobility. They’re versatile and were used for a range of jobs including hunting, herding, and guarding livestock.

At one time in the Shar Pei history, they were used as fighting dogs. The English even referred to them as the Chinese Fighting Dog. Their loose skin offered a form of protection against bites but the introduction of larger breeds saw them fall out of popularity in the fighting ring.

In 1949 the People’s Republic of China was formed and the Communist regime began slaughtering most of their purebred dog population. Back then and even today dog meat is still being consumed! This almost led to the extinction of the Shar-Pei. Thankfully a few specimens of the breed were saved in Taiwan and Hong Kong.

The Guinness Book of World Records listed the Chinese Shar-Pei as the world’s rarest breed in 1978. At that time there were approximately 60 Shar Peis left in the world! After a magazine feature, interest in the Shar-Pei skyrocketed across America.

This led to cross-breeding with the Bulldog, Bull Terrier and Pug being introduced into the bloodlines. Thus establishing the creation of the Meat-Mouth Shar-Pei. The traditional breed before crossing is referred to as the Bone-Mouth Shar-pei but less than 100 of this variety remain today.

Much to the dismay of breeders, some Shar-Pei enthusiasts have set out to create the Miniature Shar-Pei. Their small size is caused by a recessive gene however this variety is uncommon to come across. Blue Shar Pei or Grey Shar Pei have become one of the more popular coat colours for this breed.

Exercise & Grooming

A Shar Pei should receive up to one hour of exercise per day. These intelligent canines need lots of mental stimulation to prevent boredom! Whilst this breed does have a low wanderlust potential they should still be kept on leads due to their temperamental nature with other dogs.

This breed can live in an apartment provided their activity needs are being met. They’re adaptable dogs but enjoy active lifestyles. Dog sports are a good way to keep this breed physically and mentally fit. The Shar Pei excels in categories such as rally, obedience, agility and tracking. 

Clean the wrinkles daily with a damp cloth followed by a dry one. Bacteria and dirt can build within the wrinkles resulting in infections and skin irritation. Shar Pei ears are also susceptible to chronic ear infections and must be cleaned weekly.   

Use a rubber or bristle brush to groom through the fur two to three times a week. The Shar-Pei is low shedding but will blow their coat during the spring and autumn season. It’s typically easy to maintain. To prevent overgrown nails trim them fortnightly. 

The Shar Pei bear coat acts as a natural barrier, repelling dirt from its body. However, this breed should still receive a bath every 4 weeks. Ensure the shampoo is thoroughly washed off from under the wrinkles. Prevent dental disease by cleaning the teeth daily. 

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Health

Find out the breed-related health conditions of the Shar Pei dog below:

Familial Shar Pei Fever: A hereditary condition causing fever, pain and swelling of the tibiotarsal (hock) joints. This auto-inflammatory disease only occurs in Shar-Pei and is estimated to affect 23% of the breed’s population.  
Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome: As a Brachycephalic breed the Shar Pei dog may suffer from breathing issues.  
Skin Problems: The wrinkles of the Shar-Pei are prone to inflammation and infection. Atopy, an itchy skin condition caused by allergies is also seen in this breed. 
Entropion: The eyelid rolls inwards resulting in the lashes scratching the surface of the eye. This will cause ulcers, irritation, possible pigmentation development, and excessive tearing. 
Glaucoma: An abnormal cloudiness appears in the eye after a change of lens. If the opacity is big enough to affect vision it will stop light from reaching the retina, eventually causing blindness. 
Amyloidosis: A condition causing the dog to abnormally deposit protein in the body, typically the liver or kidneys which could result in kidney failure.  
Vitamin B12 Deficiency: Cobalamin Deficiency is seen more often in the Shar Pei than other breeds and it’s suspected to be hereditary. 

Shar-Pei Training

Aggression isn’t uncommon amongst the Shar-Pei breed. It’s typically down to a lack of socialization and training. As an ex hunting and fighting breed, the Shar-Pei is naturally ready to defend its family. It’s important a Shar Pei puppy experiences a variety of new places, sounds, sights, people, and dogs.

Never let the Shar-Pei break the household boundaries. This alpha dog will quickly try to take the top spot. First and foremost, it’s important to build a bond with a Shar-Pei puppy. Once this is established obedience training should begin right away. Within the first week of their arrival.  

Owners must be consistent and patient if they want to get anywhere with training. Positive reinforcement is always best. Use food rewards and toys as a form of praise. Instantly reward good behaviour just as quick as correcting bad. Keep training sessions to a maximum of 10 minutes and avoid repetition as this will bore the Shar Pei!   

Group puppy classes are a fantastic way to socialize a dog whilst learning new commands. These dogs are smart so once they’ve grasped the basics, move on to some advanced training. Teach them new tricks even if it’s just for fun. It’s a good way to keep the Shar Pei occupied.  

Shar Pei Interesting Facts

• In 1979 Life Magazine featured the Shar-Pei on their front cover! It included an earlier appeal by Hong Kong Shar Pei dog breeder Matgo Law to save the breed. After this publication, Shar Pei puppy sales increased dramatically!
• The unique black-blue tongue sported by the Chinese Shar-Pei is also seen in the Chow Chow. Lavender is another tongue colour seen in this breed. Their unique tongues were historically thought to ward off evil spirits. 
• The rough coat of the Shar Pei was another tool used in dog fighting due to its uncomfortability in the mouth. The name Shar Pei actually translates to sand-skin. 
• Violet, the Shar Pei is a rescue dog from Yorkshire saved by Wrinkles Rescue Centre at the age of 6 weeks. Despite the odds being stacked against her, after seven months of treatment, Violet was now ready to meet her new family. On July 12^th 2021 Violet finally got to meet her new owner! 
• Harvey the Shar Pei is covered in deep wrinkles and resembles a blanket! Owner Teresa Arguimba has to keep the skin folds moisturized every day! Harvey has much thicker wrinkles than any of his siblings! 
• Shar Peis are highly protective of their owners! In Middlesbrough, owner Ryan Blanchard’s dog attacked 3 police officers after arriving at his address looking for a different person. 
• Tally the Shar Pei was rescued from Romania in 2021 after being found tied to a tree with both her paws cut off! Luckily, she was found and fostered before coming to the UK where she was to be looked after by Shar Pei Rescue Scotland. They’re hoping to purchase prosthetics for Tally to increase her limited mobility. Shar Pei Rescue Scotland and members of the public helped raise funds to supply Tally with wheels to improve her quality of life.
• On the 24^th March 2021 in Cheltenham Park, England, 3 Shar Pei puppies were discovered in a bucket! The ill dogs were suffering with sarcoptic mange and are being rehabilitated and rehomed by the RSPCA. 

The Cavapoo is one of Britain’s most popular designer dog breeds. A cross between a Poodle and a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, we’re going to look into the Cavapoos personality, health, training needs and more!

Cavapoo Breed Standards:
Kennel Club Member?: No
Cavapoo Lifespan: 12-15 years
Cavapoo Exercise: Up to 1 hour per day
Height: 9-14 inches
Weight: 5-11 kilograms
Hypoallergenic: Yes

The Cavapoo is a popular hybrid and is a cross between the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel and the Poodle. The breed can be crossed with a miniature, standard or toy Poodle resulting in the Cavapoo’s varying sizes. Due to its crossbreed status, the Cavapoo might inherit more features from one parent than the other.

This designer dog also goes by the name Cavoodle or the Cavadoodle. Over the last 20 years, these teddy bear dogs have made long strides to establish their own breed. Yet still, the Cavapoo hasn’t been recognised by the FCI, Kennel Club or American Kennel Club.

Characteristics

Check out the pros and cons of the Cavapoo dog breed below:

Positives:

Hypoallergenic, low shedding coat
Sociable and friendly
Suitable for first-time owners
Adaptable, can live in an apartment
Intelligent and easy to train
Good therapy dog

Negatives:

Prone to separation anxiety
High grooming needs
Not a great watchdog
Vocal, will bark for attention

The Cavapoo is a designer dog featuring long floppy ears and a wavy low shedding coat. A Cavapoo full grown will reach up to 14 inches in height and 11 kilograms in weight unless you own a smaller variety. The breed is found in a wide range of colours that include, tri-colour, bi-colour, Black, White, Apricot, Sable, Chocolate, Tan and Red.

Cavapoo Temperament

The Cavapoo dog breed is a happy go lucky dog. They’re highly friendly and sociable and make great companion dogs. This breed is good-natured, playful, and affectionate and isn’t known for aggression. Their cute appearance is matched to their gentle and sweet temperament.

Cavapoos thrive off their owner’s attention and don’t do well on their own for long periods. These lapdogs are better suited to homes where at least one person stays indoors.

This breed isn’t a natural watchdog or guard dog and won’t be a great defender of the home. They’re friendly to all including strangers. The most they’ll do is bark at the knock of a door. A Cavapoo shouldn’t be timid which is often an indicator of a lack of socialization.

All varieties of Cavapoo size are exceptional family dogs! These playful pooches get along well with children and enjoy the interactive games and extra attention! A miniature and toy Cavapoo is better suited to families with older children as they’re more fragile and prone to injury.

Cavapoos are highly sociable and love making friends at the park! They’ll play nicely with other dogs and can also live happily alongside them too! The Cavapoo is a lover of all animals and can also live with cats and smaller pets. Although it’s recommended they’re raised together from puppyhood.

History

The Cavapoo is a hybrid crossed between a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel and a poodle. Whilst they may have been around America during the 1950s, they weren’t bred under an official aspect until the 1990s by Australian breeders. It didn’t take long for these designer dogs to skyrocket in popularity across the world.

There are a number of different Cavapoo generations developed over the years. The first is the F1 type. This Cavapoo is the oldest generation and is 50% Cavalier King Charles Spaniel & 50% Poodle. An F1B Cavapoo has been bred back to a Poodle making its parent percentage 75% Poodle and 25% Cavalier King Charles Spaniel.

An F2 Cavapoo is bred from two full-grown Cavapoos so their parentage background is still 50%. The same goes for an F3 Cavapoo as both of their parents are F2 Cavapoos. It gets slightly more confusing when the Cavapoo is bred back to one of their parent dogs but reputable breeders will keep thorough track of their bloodlines.

In the UK the Cavapoo isn’t an uncommon breed so it’s best to check any shelters or Cavapoo rescue centres before sourcing a Cavapoo breeder.

Exercise & Grooming

The standard Cavapoo requires up to one hour of exercise per day. A toy and miniature Cavapoo will need slightly less at around 30 minutes per day. All varieties of Cavapoo are suited to apartment living. Sometimes a game of fetch in the garden is enough to wear the mini Cavapoo out!

As a hybrid, a Cavapoo is unable to perform dog sports in any official capacity. However, it is still a good idea to involve them in dog sports for fun. It’s a good form of exercise and mental stimulation. Bored dogs will display destructive behaviours, so it’s important to keep the Cavapoo occupied.

Cavapoo dogs have a hypoallergenic coat so they’re better suited to allergy sufferers. This breed hardly sheds so owners will need to brush through the coat every 2-3 days to remove dead fur. A slicker brush and comb is the most ideal tool to use on their coat.

Every 6-8 weeks the Cavapoo should receive a thorough groom and trim of their fur. This should include a wash and blowdry. Be careful not to over-dry the coat as this is damaging to the fur. Some owners do this from home whilst others use a professional grooming service.

A Cavapoo has long fluffy ears which are susceptible to infection. These should be cleaned weekly to prevent a build-up of debris. Dogs should also have their teeth brushed daily and their nails trimmed fortnightly. Introduce grooming techniques to a Cavapoo puppy as early as possible to prevent fear.

Health

Check out the breed-related health conditions of the Cavapoo below:

Luxating Patellas: The kneecap moves out of position before quickly returning back into place. A dog may run on three legs before quickly returning back to 4.
Hip Dysplasia: The ball and socket of the hip joint don’t fit together correctly due to abnormal growth. This will lead to pain, inflammation, swelling, lameness, and eventually arthritis.
Epilepsy: A common neurological condition causing unprovoked seizures in affected dogs.
Mitral Valve Disease: This disease targets the heart valve tissue causing it to degenerate thus preventing the heart valve from fully closing.
Progressive Retinal Atrophy: A degenerative condition targeting the photoreceptor cells within the eyes. Over time this will lead to blindness.
Glaucoma: A painful condition caused by a build-up of fluid within the eye. Symptoms include redness, rubbing of the eye, a cloudy cornea, and eventual loss of vision.
Entropion: The eyelid rolls inwards causing the lashes to rub against the surface of the eye. This will cause ulcers, pigmentation development, irritation, and watery eyes.

Cavapoo Training

The Cavapoo might be a designer dog but they hold mountains of intelligence and are easy to train. This makes them a suitable breed for first-time owners. As a sensitive companion, the Cavapoo will become upset with harsh training techniques. Use positive methods, patience and a calm yet assertive tone of voice.

Crate training is beneficial to the Cavapoo as their crate becomes their safe space. This dog is prone to separation anxiety so if their owners were to go out for a couple of hours, they could use the crate as a source of comfort. It’s also a tool that can be used to housebreak a dog because they don’t like soiling their own spaces.

Cavapoos are essentially lapdogs but their cute teddy like faces can be a distraction to owners. Some may fall for the cute puppy eyes allowing their dog to push or even break the boundaries. This will lead to bad habits that may include excessive barking, jumping, digging, and hyperactivity.

Naturally, this breed is pretty sociable and will make lots of friends in the dog park. Cavapoo puppies should be thoroughly socialized with people, dogs and environments to nurture them into well-rounded dogs. Group puppy classes are an excellent way to do this.

Cavapoo Interesting Facts

• In October 2021, Maisie the Cavapoo from Wales just couldn’t stand the rain anymore. She decided to protest by laying flat like a starfish refusing to walk out the door! As soon as owner Rachel grabs her raincoat, Maisie turns straight into a starfish!
• On July 5th 2021 in Ripley Surrey, two Cavapoos Rockie and Marnie were stolen whilst their family were holidaying in Spain. They were notified after their dog sitter phoned the family to let them know they had gone missing. Naturally, the children Henry and Archie Beckett were distraught at losing their forever friends!
• Tia the Cavapoo, was featured on Channel 4’s Supervet after she was facing being put to sleep. Tia fell down a ditch in Buckingham Green which resulted in her hip being dislodged from its socket. The operation was estimated to be around £8,000 but luckily Tia was referred to Fitzpatrick’s Supervet where they completed a life-saving operation that cost half the price!
• In the United Kingdom, the Cavapoo is one of the most expensive dog breeds. The Cavapoo price ranges from £1000-£4000.
• There are a list of different Cavapoo generations. F1 is the oldest being 50% Poodle and 50% Cavalier King Charles Spaniel. The other generations are F1B, F1BB, F2, F2B, and F3.
• On September 12 2021, Rupert the Cavapoo puppy was mauled whilst walking in Hampstead Heath by an ex-racing Greyhound. Owner James Brillant had to rush his puppy for emergency veterinary care totalling a cost of £1,200.
• Cavapoos are highly sought after dogs with many increasingly being the victims of dog theft. In Jersey, police opened an invesitgation after a nine week-old Cavapoo puppy was stolen in July 2021. An attempted dog snatching of a five month old Cavapoo puppy was luckily prevented after partially sighted owener Gary Harkins refused. The two men jumped out of the van aggressively but thankfully left without the dog.

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The Cesky Terrier is the National Dog of the Czech Republic. They’re a cross between the Scottish and Sealyham Terrier. Today the Ceskie is one of the world’s rarest breeds!

Cesky Terrier Breed Standards:
Kennel Club Member?: Yes
Cesky Terrier Lifespan: 12-15 years
Cesky Terrier Exercise: Up to 1 hour per day
Height: 10-13 inches
Weight: 6-11 kilograms
Hypoallergenic: Yes

The Cesky Terrier is an achondroplastic breed as he is longer than he is tall. Dog breeds that have dwarfism must wait until their growth plates are fully formed before jumping or climbing stairs. Over exercise is incredibly damaging to their joints. Other achondroplastic breeds include the Skye Terrier, the Swedish Vallhund, and the Glen of Imaal Terrier.

This breed is rare so potential owners will need to join a waiting list to register their interests in a puppy. It’ll be very hard to find a Cesky Terrier rescue centre in the UK. In 2020 there were 38 Cesky Terrier puppies registered with the Kennel Club. The second-highest total in a decade behind 2019 at 43.

Characteristics

Below are the pros and cons of the Cesky Terrier dog breed below:

Positives:

• Hypoallergenic and a low shedding coat
• More sociable than other Terriers
• Family-friendly pet
• Suitable watchdog
• Low drooling
• Adaptable, can live in an apartment

Negatives:

• Rare breed, must join a waiting list
• Prone to weight gain
• Strong prey drive
• Easily bored and holds a stubborn streak

The Cesky Terrier is a small-medium dog breed with a robust and muscular body. It’s short-legged with drop ears and a long soft coat. Hand stripping isn’t required for this coat, unlike other Terrier breeds. Their coat colours are found in Grey Blue, and Light Coffee Brown.

Cesky Terrier Temperament

The Cesky Terrier is a friendly canine that’s calmer than its other Terrier cousins. This breed isn’t known to show aggressive or nervous behaviour unless unsocialized. Quiet in the home and cheerful around the family, this dog makes a great companion!

Loving and deeply loyal, Cesky Terriers can’t be left alone regularly as they’re prone to separation anxiety. This breed is better suited to homes where at least one person is in during the day. Although lively, Cesky Terriers don’t require heavy amounts of exercise.

Contained within this small dog is a loud and powerful bark. As a natural watchdog, this breed will immediately alert its owner to a knock on the door or a trespasser. Cesky Terriers are typically reserved with strangers but never aggressive.

Ceskies are more fragile than other breeds as they’re achondroplastic. Homes with older children are better suited for a Ceskie. They’re lively characters and enjoy playing interactive games. The Cesky Terrier will be a great playmate and affectionate companion.

Well-socialized Cesky Terriers will get along well with other dogs. They aren’t known to court fights quite as much as others in the Terrier family! This breed can live happily in a home with other canines and even cats! Smaller household pets like rodents will be chased!

History

The Cesky Terrier originates from the Czech Republic and was created by breeder František Horák in 1948. Cesky Terriers are a cross between Sealyham and Scottish Terriers. They were developed for hunting in the forests of the Bohemia region found in the Czech Republic (previously Czechoslovakia). The Bohemian Terrier is another name they go by.

Horak started a breeding programme to produce a Terrier that could go to ground but could also work in packs. A dog with a temperament more obedient and gentle than other Terriers. He set up hunting kennels and had some of the best Scottie and Sealy Terriers in the country.

His kennel Lovu Zdar means Successful Hunter. Horak documented all of his dog’s bloodlines making the Cesky Terrier one of the most documented dog breeds alive. He developed the coat to be silky so it’s easier to look after and managed to reduce the aggression seen in Scottie and Sealy Terriers.

In 1949 Horak produced the first Cesky litter but only one puppy survived into adulthood. Unfortunately, this dog was accidentally shot by a hunter which caused a setback to the breeding programme. Nevertheless, Horak was still determined to progress the Cesky Terrier, the first National Czech breed. In 1963 the Ceskie received FCI recognition.

The first Cesky Terrier arrived in England in 1989from Lovu Zdar Kennels by Liz and Harold Gay. The couple were popular Glen of Imaal Terrier breeders. They were quickly recognised by the Kennel Club in 1990 but were handed a rare breed status by 2000. To this day the Cesky Terrier is still one of the world’s rarest dogs. Cesky Terriers arrived in America during the 1980s but weren’t recognised by the AKC until 2011.

Exercise & Grooming

Do not overexercise a Cesky Terrier puppy. Their growth plates will close at around 9-12 months. Around 10-15 minutes of exercise is suitable for Cesky Terrier puppies aged 4-6 months old. This breed is suitable for apartment living.

Ceskies will feel bored due to a lack of mental stimulation. Dog sports are a good way to keep them stimulated and exercised. This breed is a great competitor in agility, obedience, and earthdog trials. As this breed is prone to weight gain it’s important to keep them fit and healthy.

A Cesky Terrier should be brushed a couple of times a week to keep its coat tangle-free. Their coat texture is soft and silky. The leg and facial hair need daily brushing. Keep an eye on the underarms as this area is prone to matting. The coat will require occasional trimming as opposed to hand-stripping. Use a soft bristle brush, pin brush, and comb for their fur type.

Clean the ears weekly to remove dirt and debris from the ear canal. Introduce grooming techniques such as nail trimming during puppyhood. Nails should be clipped at least once each month. Vets recommend brushing a dog’s teeth daily to prevent dental disease.

Before putting the Cesky Terrier in the bath give the coat a thorough brush. This will prevent the fur from matting when wet. These canines don’t shed their fur naturally so debris often stays in the coat. Baths should be given around every 8 weeks or sooner if they’re very dirty.

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Health

Below are the breed-related health conditions of the Cesky Terrier:

Patella Luxation: The term luxating means out of place and the patella is a dog’s kneecap. Dogs can lead normal lives with this condition as the kneecap will go back into position as quickly as it fell out.
Scottie Cramp: A neurological condition that typically occurs after exercise or stress. Affected dogs will lose control over their limbs for approximately 10 minutes.
Primary Lens Luxation: (Hasn’t been detected in Cesky Terriers in the UK) The zonular fibres holding the eye in place disintegrate resulting in the eye falling out of position.
Cancer: Cesky Terriers can suffer from cancers such as lymphosarcoma.

Cesky Terrier Training

Respect training comes first for any Terrier! They must acknowledge the pack pecking order in their household. Cesky Terriers are calmer and less aggressive than other Terrier breeds, which makes them easier to train. First-time owners can be good for this dog.

Positive training methods work best for the Ceskie. Reward every good behaviour and reinforce household boundaries if they are broken. Avoid dishing out too many food treats as Cesky Terriers are prone to weight gain. Use toys, affection and praise.

A well-socialized Cesky Terrier will get along well with other dogs so they must be socialized during puppyhood! Join a group puppy class where the Ceskie can meet new canines and people all while learning new commands! Take them to new places where they can experience different sights and sounds.

Small Dog Syndrome is a behavioural condition primarily caused by fear. Dogs may lunge at other larger dogs, bark, and display dominant behaviour to humans. A lack of socialization and training will cause a small breed to develop this syndrome. Due to their size, this could land them in a lot of trouble!

Keep training sessions enjoyable to avoid boredom. Ceskies are independent and do have a stubborn streak so it’s important to be patient. If they’re showing disinterest move on to something new. Ceskies are intelligent canines and can even be trained into therapy dogs.

Cesky Terrier Interesting Facts

• Did you know Cesky Terriers are born all black! It takes a couple of years for their coats to lighten into its permanent coat colour!
• In Retford, Nottinghamshire Joss, a Cesky Terrier was stolen from a kennel during the day. Owners Harold and Liz Gay have been desperate to find the 11 month old dog. Harold & Liz weer the first people to introduce the Cesky Terrier into the United Kingdom back in 1989!
• Loren Marino, owner of Hector the Cesky Terrier competed with her dog at the Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show for the last time after she was diagnosed with terminal cancer. Hector previosly won Best in Breed in 2015 and received a merit the year before! She has been instrumental in the breeds success in America.

The National Dog of Finland is a prized hunting dog with a fox-like appearance! Let’s take a look into this breed’s health, personality, history, health needs and more!

Finnish Spitz Breed Standard:
Kennel Club Member?: Yes
Finnish Spitz Life Expectancy: 13-15 years
Finnish Spitz Exercise: Up to 1 hour per day
Height: Male 17.5-20 inches Female 15.5-18 inches
Weight: Male 11-15 kilograms Female 9-13 kilograms
Hypoallergenic: No

A Nordic breed hailing from the Land of the Thousand Lakes, the Finnish Spitz is prized for its hunting abilities. Popular in its native land this canine is well suited to family life although their barking is a little bit of a downfall! The Finnish Spitz somewhat resembles a fox with its golden red coats and pointy ears.

The Finnish Spitz is often confused with the Japanese Shiba Inu due to their similar looks. Both are Spitz-type breeds but the Shiba Inu is smaller, has a shorter coat, and rounded ears. The Japanese Shiba Inu is the more popular choice in the United Kingdom.

Characteristics

Check out the pros and cons of the Finnish Spitz below:

Positives:

• Family-friendly pet
• Ideal watchdog
• Low drooling
• Can be good for first time owners

Negatives:

• Prone to separation anziety
• High wanderlust potential
• Vocal, will bark… a lot!
• Not an apartment friendly breed

The Finnish Hunting dog is a Spitz breed featuring pointy ears, a thick double coat, and a curly tail. Its breed standard has been revised 6 times! Finnish Spitz can grow dewclaws on their back paws so it’s recommended these are removed. Their coat colours are found in Gold, Red, and Golden Red.

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Finnish Spitz Temperament

The Finnish Spitz is a happy, intelligent, vocal, playful and independent canine. The breed is highly affectionate and deeply loyal, building strong bonds with its owner/s. A Finnish Spitz is vocal and will bark when they deem necessary. It should come as no surprise as in Finland this dog is heavily praised for its barking..

Determined first-time owners are suitable for this breed. On occasion, they can be strong-willed yet despite this the Finnish Spitz is a sensitive dog and will develop separation anxiety if left alone regularly. The Nordic breed is spirited, friendly and a great companion.

Alert and a natural watchdog, the Finnish Spitz will immediately inform their owners of trespassers. At first, they’ll react cautiously to strangers. This should never result in aggression unless a dog is unsocialized. After holding themselves back so they can assess the situation, they should settle down around visitors and may even show their friendly side.

Finnish Spitz are excellent with children and make great playmates. They’re lively and active which is a great combination for children. Their size is also ideal and less likely to cause accidental injuries. Loving and loyal this canine will be a child’s forever friend.

In the past, the Finnish Spitz would work in packs. So they’re sociable and friendly with other dogs and can live happily alongside them. Due to their strong prey drive, they may view smaller household pets as prey. Felines should be raised with this breed from puppyhood.

History

The Finnish Spitz originates from Finland where it’s known in its native land as Suomenpystykorva. It’s believed the breed came to Finland after migrating from central Russia over 3000 years ago. They were vital to their human companions sourcing food with their excellent hunting abilities.

Their typical prey included small game squirrels and grouse although they were known to assist in hunting and tracking Elk, Moose and Bear. Over time, this breed adapted to hunting birds. Once they’ve spotted their prey, the Finnish Spitz will slowly wag their tails whilst simultaneously barking.

By moving their tails, hunters are able to find their dogs in the thick forest. Finnish Spitz also adapted to flushing and trailing gamebirds. During the late 1800s transportation improved across the world. This led to an influx of cross-breeding amongst the Finnish Spitz which almost led to its extinction.

Thankfully, two men from Helsinki, Hugo Sanderburg and Hugo Roos helped revive the breed from its near demise. By the beginning of the 1900s, the Finnish Kennel Club officially recognized the Finnish Spitz. They’ve been known as the National Dog of Finland since 1979.

In the 1920s the first Finnish Spitz arrived in England imported by Lady Kitty Ritson. She nicknamed the breed Finkie a term still used today. It wasn’t until 1959 when the first of the breed arrived in America from England. The breed is still relatively rare in the UK with only 5 Finnish Spitz puppies being registered with the Kennel Club in 2020.

Exercise & Grooming

A Finnish Spitz should receive up to one hour of exercise per day. Some of this must include vigorous play once they reach 3 years old. They enjoy interactive games with their families such as fetch and frisbee. It’s important not to over-exercise a Finnish Spitz puppy. Well-socialized dogs will enjoy playing with other canines at the park.

This breed is a great competitor in dog sports and does well in agility, lure coursing, and obedience. It’s also a good form of mental stimulation for this highly intelligent dog. Finnish Spitz have low boredom thresholds and will resort to destructive behaviour if their needs aren’t being met.

As hunting dogs, these canines will chase after prey. They also have a high wanderlust potential so may walk off on an exploration. Always keep them leashed unless in an enclosed space. Garden fences should also be secure. The Finnish Spitz isn’t suited to apartments.

To keep the coat in good condition brush it through weekly. It should never be trimmed. As a double-coated breed, the Finnish Spitz dog will shed moderately throughout the year. Shedding will increase in the autumn and spring. A pin brush, slicker brush and comb are ideal tools to use on their coat. Lightly spray the coat with water before brushing.

The Finnish Spitz is typically a clean dog and won’t require frequent bathing. Pop them in the bath once they begin to get dirty or smell. Brush through the coat before getting it wet. Give the nails a trim every fortnight. Clean the ears weekly to remove any debris. For good dental hygiene brush the teeth daily.

Health

The Finnish Spitz is generally a healthy dog but there are a few breed-related health conditions to be aware of:

Luxating Patellas: The kneecap moves out of position temporarily before moving back into place just as quick. Affected canines will run on three legs before returning to four.
Hip Dysplasia: Due to the abnormal growth of the hip joint, the ball and socket of the hip won’t fit together correctly. This will cause symptoms of lameness, pain, inflammation and eventually arthritis.
Elbow Dysplasia: The elbow joint grows abnormally resulting in pain, inflammation, swelling and eventual arthritis.
Epilepsy: A common neurological condition causing unprovoked seizures in affected dogs.

Finnish Spitz Training

The Finnish Spitz can be a handful to train but determined first-time owners will prevail! This breed is sensitive and will withdraw from harsh training techniques. Use positive methods, rewarding every good behaviour. Whilst the Finnish Spitz is strong-willed they’re also intelligent and will pick up on commands quickly.

Finnish Spitz puppies have low boredom thresholds so make training fun! Keep the sessions short to around ten minutes and if they begin to show disinterest, divert their attention to something new. Remember, these dogs will pick up good commands just as quickly as bad habits!

Respect training is most important. Once authority has been established obedience will begin to follow. Training must begin as soon as the Finnish Spitz puppy arrives in its new home. They must be taught boundaries they aren’t allowed to break. Get them into a routine that includes regular toilet breaks.

Socialization is important to grow the Finnish Spitz into a well-rounded dog. Group puppy classes are a good way to meet new people and dogs whilst learning new commands. It’s important to introduce a puppy to a variety of sights, sounds, and places to prevent fear or anxiety.

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Finnish Spitz Interesting Facts

• Kiko, a Finnish Spitz from New Zealand can twist her head back an entire 180 degrees! Owner Ashleigh MacPherson will say the command ‘Demon’ and Kiko will bend her neck backwards! When called by her owner as a puppy Kiko would bend her neck as opposed to twisting it. Now, its turned into a unique trick!
• According to a recent DNA analysis of the Finnish Spitz, one of their ancestors has been identified as the Taimyr Wolf although not as strongly as found in the Siberian Husky. The now extinct Taimyr Wolf’s genome is the most recent ancestor of grey wolves and domesticated dogs.
• In Finland a barking competition is held annually! The highest amount of barks recorded in a minute by this breed is 160! After proving their barking skills on the hunting field, one lucky dog will be crowned King Barker!
• This canine has a number of names which include Finkie, Finsk Spets, Finnish Barking Bird Dogs and Suomenpystykorva in Finnish. Their Finnish name translates to Finnish Prick Eared dog.
• Whilst there are no black Finnish Spitz, during puppyhood their coats are much darker. This will begin to fade completely after two years.

The Spinone Italiano is a robust gundog used to track, hunt and point game. The breed will work in both land and water. Let’s take a look at this versatile and hard-working canine!

Italian Spinone Breed Standards:
Kennel Club Member?: Yes
Italian Spinone Lifespan: 10-12 years
Italian Spinone Exercise: More than two hours per day
Height: Male 23-27 inches Female 22-25 inches
Weight: Male 34-39 kilograms Female 29-34 kilograms
Hypoallergenic: No

The Italian Spinone is one of the world’s oldest hunting breeds. They’re prized in Italy for their versatility and are still popular gundogs today. The breed goes by several names including the Spinone Italiano, the Italian Griffon, the Italian Wire-Haired pointer, and the Italian Coarsehaired pointer. They were bred to hunt in thicker, bushier areas of the Italian countryside.

Spinoni are vocal and will let their owners know what they’re thinking! This dog has a lot of personality and expects regular cuddles! Their excellent sense of smell is a downfall in the kitchen as they’ll find just about anything! An intelligent, loving, active companion that has a growing community here in the UK.

Characteristics

Check out the pros and cons of the Italian Spinone dog breed below:

Positives:

• Intelligent & easy to train
• Low shedder
• Family-friendly dog
• Multi-purpose gundog

Negatives:

• Prone to separation anxiety
• High wanderlust potential
• Heavy drooling
• Not ideal watchdogs
• Strong prey drive

The Spinone Italiano is a medium-sized breed with a solid, muscular build. This single-coated dog has thick, rough fur. It’s designed to protect them from the thorny undergrowth in their native land. Their coat colours are found in Brown road, Orange Roan, White, and Orange & White.

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Temperament

Italian Spinoni are affectionate, loyal, patient, docile, and friendly dogs. This easygoing canine is easy to train in the right hands and can be a good choice for first-time owners. Spinoni do take longer to mature than other breeds so owners will require patience.

At times they can be stubborn but overall are pretty laidback individuals. This gundog is easily satisfied and mostly well-behaved although they do have a cheeky side! The Spinone Italiano makes a devoted companion and forever friend.

Spinoni are people-orientated and don’t make good watchdogs or guard dogs. They might be a little cautious at first but most are typically friendly towards strangers. Polite and sweet-natured the Italian Spinone is not an aggressive breed.

Family-friendly, this dog gets along well with children. Spinoni enjoy the extra love and attention received from kids! Some dogs can be boisterous in their puppy years so keep watch when around a young child. Energetic and robust, Spinoni are great playmates!

Sociable and kind, Italian Spinoni enjoy making lots of doggy friends! They can live with other dogs but should be raised with cats from puppyhood. Due to their strong prey drive, they could view small dogs as prey.

History

The specific origins of the Spinone Italiano are unknown. However, they’ve been a part of Italian history since their appearance during the Renaissance era. A mural painting by Andrea Mantegna of the Ducal Palace’s Camera Degli Sposi depicts the Spinone as early as 1470.

Traditionally used for hunting, tracking, pointing and retrieving, this multi-purpose gundog works on both land and in water. The modern Spinone we know today was developed in Italy’s north-western region, Piedmont.

The area of Piedmont contains an overgrowth of thorny bushes. Its referred to as Pino hence the name ‘Spinone’. The Spinone was developed to work in these difficult terrains including the hills of the Alps in Italy. They’re one of the most versatile gundogs in the world!

In World War II the Spinone Italiano was used for tracking enemies and carrying supplies. Of course, like most breeds, numbers dropped after the war. So, in 1949 the Famiglia dello Spinone was formed.

The breed first arrived in the UK in 1981 by Mrs Mary Moore. In 1994 the UK Kennel Club officially recognized the Italian Spinone. They’re most popular in Italy. In the UK 389 Italian Spinone puppies were registered in 2020.

Exercise & Grooming

Ideally, the Spinone Italiano should receive more than two hours of exercise per day. Some Spinoni aren’t as active and could do with 90 minutes instead. If they live in built-up areas, these gundogs should be kept on a leash unless in an enclosed space due to their strong prey drive.

Gundogs thrive off long explorations in the countryside! Allow plenty of sniffing time as this contributes to mental stimulation. The Italian Griffon is prone to weight gain so it’s important they’re kept active throughout their lives. Dog sports are a great way to keep them busy and fit!

The Italian Coarsehaired Pointer will need brushing twice a week. The fur between their legs and under their tail is prone to tangles. A pin brush, comb, and slicker brush are ideal tools to use. Long fur around the face should be trimmed.

The medium-length coat requires hand stripping to allow new fur to grow through the follicle. It’s a frequent grooming method for show dogs. Companion dogs are hand stripped around twice a year. Usually during the spring and autumn. Owners can hand strip their dogs themselves whilst others visit professional groomers.

As this breed is single-coated they won’t shed heavily. They’ll need their lip folds and beards cleaned regularly to prevent odour. Bath the Spinone leaving two-month intervals at a minimum. Their ears must be cleaned weekly to avoid infections. Don’t forget to trim nails fortnightly to prevent overgrowth.

Health

Check out the breed-related health conditions of the Italian Spinone below:

Hip Dysplasia: The ball and socket of the hip joint develop abnormally. This causes them to rub and grind against one another. Pain and lameness are experienced which will eventually lead to arthritis.
Entropion: The eyelid turns inwards causing the eyelashes to scratch the surface of the eye. Symptoms include tearing eyes, squinting, red eyes, rubbing, conjunctivitis, infections and eye ulcers.
Atopy: A lifelong skin condition owners will have to manage as there is no cure. Frequent exposure to an allergen increases the dog’s allergic response resulting in itchy, inflamed skin.
Gastric Dilatation Volvulus: The stomach will twist filling with gasses and trapping the food inside. It’s a life-threatening condition commonly caused by fast-eating.
Panosteitis: This condition is also referred to as growing pains. It typically occurs between the ages of 5-18 months and puppies will grow out of it.
Hypothyroidism: An underactive thyroid causes a reduction in the dog’s metabolic state. Lethargy, dull skin and fur, weight gain, and fur loss are some common symptoms.
Epilepsy: A common neurological condition in dogs causing unprovoked seizures.

Italian Spinone Training

As a sensitive breed, this dog will withdraw from harsh training methods. Use positive reinforcement and always praise good behaviour with a reward such as a food treat or toy. A happy calm tone will attract the eager to please Spinone.

When it comes to hunting, Spinoni are pretty independent in the field. They aren’t favoured for their obedience skills! Sometimes their stubborn side shines through and can hinder training. If they become bored or simply don’t want to participate in training then try something new.

Be gentle and calm with his breed. Set a routine they will quickly learn to follow. Structure is one of the best ways to housebreak a dog. Keep training sessions to a minimum of ten minutes as Spinoni are easily distracted. Always exercise a dog so they aren’t built up with energy.

Socialization is vital to ensuring the Italian Spinone is confident in adulthood. It’s crucial to social and mental development. To prevent fearful behaviour and anxiety, introduce them to new sights, sounds, people, dogs, and places.

An Italian Spinone puppy is easy to train in the right hands. Gundogs have natural instincts out in the field. The owner will need to work on their commands and recall. Confident Italian Spinone puppies should begin gundog training at around 7-8 months.

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Italian Spinone Interesting Facts

• In Wickham, 2007, six dogs went missing from breeder Sue Shrimpton. A variety of dogs went missing including one pregnant Cavalier King Charles Spaniel. Two of her dogs were found a few hours later, an Italian Spinone and a Mastiff, but she believes the rest were stolen.
• It’s believed Sh Ch Riccini Caprice also known as Mia, gave birth to the largest ever Italian Spinone litter. The dog from Durham, England gave birth to 17 puppies! They were born in Leadgate at Prince Bishop Veterinary Hospital. This special canine is also the only Spinone to win Best of Breed three times consecutively at Crufts!
• Marconi the Italian Spinone has won awards for his therapy work in America! Ever since arriving home with his owner, Marconi was being well-trained. He even undertook two 6-week training courses to enhance his natural therapy skills. By his first year Marconi was handed an American Kennel Club Canine Excellence Award in recognition of his help to people.
• Even the Italian Spinone is prone to fear-based reactions when unsocialized. Dudley, the Italian Spinone from Carlilse, England bit a girl in the head and face after she began stroking him. Numerous character references were submitted to court stating this was out of character for the dog. However, there will still be a court hearing to determine if Dudley will be destroyed.
• Clyde the Italian Spinone, needed rescuing by the Happisburgh Lifeboat Crew. He got stuck at sea after chasing seagulls! Since then Clyde has been given his own life jacket and is now their mascot.

Dalmatians have been a part of British history since the 18th century. Today we’re going to find out why these dogs are just so popular in the UK!

Dalmatians are widely recognised after their big-screen debut in 101 Dalmatians. The novel was written in 1956 by Dodie Smith, a British author. Walt Disney later produced the animated adaptation in 1961 followed by a remake in 1996. Sequels soon followed.

This caused a jump in popularity which has remained even to this day. In 2020, the Kennel Club registered 1,126 Dalmatian puppies. A small rise from the previous year at 1,042 puppies. The Firehouse Dog just won’t budge from the hearts of British dog lovers!

Dalmatian Breed Standards:
Kennel Club Member?: Yes
Dalmatian Lifespan: 11-13 years
Dalmatian Exercise: More than two hours each day
Height: 19-24 inches
Weight: 20-32 kilograms
Hypoallergenic: No

Characteristics

Check out the pros and cons of the Dalmatian dog breed below:

Positives:

• A sociable & family-friendly dog
• Intellgient & easy to train
• Suitable for first-time owners
• Excellent service and therapy dog
• Ideal watchdog

Negatives:

• High wanderlust potential
• Prone to separation anxiety
• Susceptible to weight gain
• Sheds its coat heavily
• High exercise needs

The Dalmatian is a medium to large dog breed recognized for its white spotted body. This single-coated breed sheds all year round and is found in colours Liver & White and Black & White

Dalmatian Temperament

The Dalmatian is sociable, friendly, sensitive, active and playful. These dogs are suitable for first-time owners but may experience separation anxiety if left alone. Dalmatians have eccentric personalities and make loving and affectionate companion dogs.

Outgoing and high in energy, the Dal requires an outdoorsy owner. These dogs are deeply loyal and eager to please, looking to their leader for direction. On occasion, they will be stubborn but overall Dals are easygoing.

Dalmatians are natural watchdogs and will alert their owners to a knock on the door. Some Dals are polite and friendly when greeting strangers whilst others are more reserved. A lack of socialization could lead to timid or even aggressive behaviour.

This breed is known to be an excellent family dog! They’re playful and filled with energy. However, their personality can be a little too boisterous for younger children. The Dal will enjoy playing fetch with the kids and can easily keep up with them!

A well-socialized Dal will get along well with other dogs. As sociable dogs, they’ll easily make friends at the park. Dalmatians aren’t known for aggression. They can live happily alongside other dogs and cats.

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History

The beginning of the Dalmatian history is relatively unknown. Researchers have studied artefacts to indicate the Dal’s start in life. They believe Asia, Africa, Europe, and the British Isles to be the first countries they appeared in. Spotted dogs were even engraved on the tombs of pharaohs in Ancient Egypt!

The FCI lists the Dalmatians country of origin as Croatia. The first written reference to the Dalmatian was in 1370 by the Bishop of Đakovo. He came across a white-spotted hunting dog in Dalmatia, Croatia and named the dog Canis Dalmaticus.

In their early years, Dalmatians would travel alongside Romany gypsies. This explains why the breed was found in numerous places across the world. Dalmatians would work hard and were used for a variety of jobs.

Their jobs include hunting, drafting, guarding, acting as a shepherd, and even working in the circus! He is also used as a ratter, a sporting dog, and a retriever! But they aren’t great gundogs! At one time in history, they were used as war dogs on the borders of Dalmatia.

Dalmatians were introduced to the United Kingdom in the early 1800s. They were often found trotting alongside horse-drawn carriages. It earned them the name the Coach Dog. England is where the development of the Dalmatian took place.

Vero Shaw created the first breed standard in 1882. The first official Dalmatian Club was established in England, 1890. By the 1920s, Dalmatians were booming in popularity across Europe. Today, they’ve kept their popularity as a companion and working dog.

Exercise & Grooming

Dalmatians should receive more than two hours of exercise each day. Mental stimulation will also need to be factored into their day. When playing in the garden, ensure it is completely enclosed as the Dal may wander off.

A Dalmatian puppy shouldn’t be excessively exercised due to their growing joints. Once they reach adulthood, the Dal will make a lovely hiking, biking, and jogging partner! Dog sports such as flyball and agility are great forms of exercise and mental stimulation.

High in energy, these canines should receive at least two long walks each day. Include some form of vigorous play. Teach the Dal new tricks, let them explore, try out some puzzle games and keep their brains ticking over. Boredom will only lead to destruction.

Dalmatians shed copious amounts of fur throughout the year. To reduce shedding brush through their coat weekly. A slicker or rubber brush will do the trick. Their ears should also be cleaned weekly to remove any debris from the canal.

This breed should be washed with a minimum of 6-week intervals. Their short fur is easily air-dried. Nails will need a fortnightly trim to prevent overgrowth. It is recommended teeth are brushed daily to prevent overgrowth.

Health

Find out the breed-related health conditions of the Dalmatian dog below:

Atopy: A lifelong skin condition that’ll need to be managed as there is no cure. Repeated exposure to an allergen will cause allergic symptoms such as itchy, inflamed skin.
Epilepsy: A common neurological condition in dogs causing uncontrollable seizures.
Deafness: This is a serious health issue affecting Dalmatians. In America, 8% of Dalmatian puppies are deaf compared to 5.4% in the United Kingdom. Blue-eyed Dalmatians are often linked to deafness. It isn’t recommended to breed blue-eyed Dalmatians and they’re rarely shown here in the UK.
Hyperuricemia: Some Dalmatians have liver’s that are unable to break down uric acid resulting in gout. This could lead to kidney and bladder stones.

Dalmatian Training

Dalmatians are highly intelligent and breeze through their training so they’re a good choice for first-time owners. This breed does have a sensitive side and requires positive reinforcement. Avoid handing out too many food treats and instead use their favourite toy as a reward.

Socialization is important to prevent fear and anxiety in adulthood. Introduce the Dal to new people, dogs and places. They’re naturally sociable but Dalmatian puppies still need exposure to new sights and sounds.

This breed is an excellent service and therapy dog. They pick up on emotions better than other dog breeds. At the minute it’s rather unusual to see a Dalmatian working as a service dog. But they are beginning to be recognised for their ability as assistance dogs.

Dalmatians are great tracking dogs. They can easily be trained to follow scents. It’s a great form of mental stimulation and many Dalmatian owners participate in this non-competitive sport. Tracking requires the assistance of others and is greatly rewarding.

Dalmatian Interesting Facts

• In Nottingham 2021, Digby, the Dalmatian became the first of his breed to qualify under the National Scheme as a disability support dog! Owner Katie Baldock has nemaline myopathy which causes weakness to the muscles. After contacting a charity, her Dalmatian Digby undertook a six-week training course. Katie then spent two years perfecting his skills before he eventually received his qualification!
• Dalmatians have a variety of nicknames these include The Firehouse Dog, The English Coach Dog, Spotted Dick, The Plum Pudding Dog (a dessert traditional in England), and The Carriage Dog.
• In 1968 Fanhill Faune owned by Mrs Jean Woodyatt won Best in Show at Crufts! The Dalmatian hasn’t won this title since.
• Molly the Dalmatian from Middlesborough, England received emergency care from the PDSA after eating 36 dog chews, buns with sultanas and chocolate! After being sick and frothing at the mouth owner Kerry Bruck immediately rushed her to the vets. Luckily, Molly made a full recovery!
• A victorian home in Primrose Hill, London, was put up for sale at £8.95 million. The home inspired writer Dodie Smith when writing her novel 101 Dalmatians! Much of the homes original features were displayed in illustrations across the book. Dodie lived around the corner in Dorset Square and was a proud owner to 9 Dalmatians!
• In 2019, Melody the Dalmatian gave birth to 19 puppies! Owner Melissa O’Brien stated her dog put on 15kg of extra weight during the pregnancy! Luna a Dalmatian in Texas gave birth to 16 puppies on June 24th 2021.
• Marshall the Dalmatian is owned by Pete in Medway, Kent. This dog does not like being told to go to bed and will even argue with his owners! In September 2021, Marshall’s owner spoke to the Mirror about this dog’s bedtime routine!

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The Rhodesian Ridgeback is also known as the African Lion Hound. A unique breed hailing from Southern Africa, today we’re going to learn all about this canine!

Rhodesian Ridgeback Breed Standards:
Kennel Club Member?: Yes
Rhodesian Ridgeback Lifespan: 10-12 years
Rhodesian Ridgeback Exercise: More than two hours each day
Height: Male 25-27 inches Female 24-26 inches
Weight: Male 38.5 kilograms Female 32 kilograms
Hypoallergenic: No

The Ridgeback’s distinct ridge of fur running down its spine is the breed’s identifying feature. It’s caused by the duplication of a mutation of the length of DNA coding for three growth factor genes. This causes the fur to grow in the opposite direction resulting in the ridge.

Not all Ridgebacks are born with this mutation but Ridgeless Ridgebacks are disqualified under the AKC breed standards. Dogs without ridges were even culled! This practice was also exposed by BBC One in a documentary. (Scroll down to the bottom of this article to read more on that!)

Characteristics:

Find out the pros and cons of the Rhodesian Ridgeback below:

Positives:

• Low grooming needs
• Great watchdog
• Family-friendly dog

Negatives:

• Not suitable for first-time owners
• Requires a lot of exercise
• Strong prey drive
• High wanderlust potential
• Prone to separation anxiety

The Rhodesian Ridgeback is a large breed dog featuring a distinct ridge of hair along the spine. Its breed standard has remained unaltered since 1922. Their short coat is found in the colours Wheaten, Light Wheaten and Red Wheaten.

Rhodesian Ridgeback Temperament

The dignified Rhodesian Ridgeback is an excellent companion with a mischievous personality! Although strong-willed and independent Ridgebacks are prone to separation anxiety. They require early socialization and training which could be a little overwhelming for inexperienced owners.

Some are intimidated by the Ridgebacks appearance and are unaware of its sensitive side. These dogs are highly affectionate and intelligent. They’re versatile hunters but are calm and relaxed in the home, once they reach adulthood of course!

This breed is an excellent watchdog, quickly alerting its owners to anything out of the ordinary. Whilst the Ridgeback is aloof of strangers they shouldn’t be aggressive. Ridgeback puppies must be socialized well to prevent territorial behaviour.

Family-friendly and deeply affectionate, Ridgebacks make excellent playmates for older children. As they’re a little boisterous in their puppy years they can be a bit overwhelming for smaller children. They may also knock them over accidentally. Ridgebacks are great playmates filled with just as much energy as kids!

The gregarious Ridgeback will get along well with other dogs provided they’ve had the right socialization. Issues caused by dominance may arise between those of the same sex. Due to their strong prey drive, they may chase small dogs. Cats should be raised alongside a Rhodesian Ridgeback puppy.

History

The Rhodesian Ridgeback originates from Southern Africa and dates back to the 16th century. The ridged Khoikhoi dog, a native breed, mated with European breeds brought by Dutch colonists. These included Greyhounds, Boerboels, and Terriers. They created the Rhodesian Ridgeback.

Unlike the European dogs, native breeds offered the Ridgeback a form of defence against pests like the Tsetse fly. They also inherited their hunting instinct and versatility allowing them to navigate around the African terrain.

Rhodesian Ridgebacks are fantastic hunters originally bred to pursue lions. They can also track and hold the quarry in place until their hunter arrives. However, they will chase and catch animals such as antelope, sourcing food for their family

It’s unsurprising the athletic Ridgeback holds masses of stamina. Their background of hunting lions in the Savannah even earned them the name African Lion Hound. These dogs were also great at warding off predators such as leopards and baboons.

In the early 1900s big game hunting reduced in popularity and so did the Ridgeback’s breed numbers. In 1922 Cornelius von Rooyen created a breeding programme in Zimbabwe (previously known as Rhodesia).

This led to the Rhodesian Ridgeback breed standard in 1922. It wasn’t until after World War II that their popularity began to increase across the world. Particularly in Britain, Canada and the United States. Rhodesian Ridgebacks received UK Kennel Club recognition in 1954.

Exercise & Grooming

Rhodesian Ridgebacks need over two hours of exercise each day. They’ll become bored and destructive if their activity needs aren’t being met. Vigorous play such as swimming is a great way to tire this breed out!

Dog sports such as tracking and agility are excellent forms of exercise and mental stimulation. Despite its large size, this canine can turn quickly and sharply, a hunting feature from their time in the Savannah. The intelligent Ridgeback will breeze through an obstacle course!

The Ridgeback is a moderate shedder with a short yet dense coat. It doesn’t require much effort on the grooming front. A quick brush once a week with a slicker dog brush is all they need. Brush the ridge in the same direction the hair grows.

Baths should be given monthly at a minimum. Ridgebacks are typically clean and don’t have a strong doggy odour. Remove debris from the ear canal by cleaning the ears weekly. Nails need trimming every fortnight. Vets recommend teeth are brushed daily to prevent dental disease.

Health

Check out the breed-related health condition of the Rhodesian Ridgeback below:

Hip Dysplasia: The abnormal growth of the hip joint causes the ball and socket to rub and grind against one another. This will cause lameness and pain leading to arthritis.
Elbow Dysplasia: The abnormal growth of the elbow joint will cause lameness, pain, and eventually arthritis.
Hypothyroidism: This disorder affects a dogs metabolism which will cause changes in the skin, weight and energy levels.
Gastric Dilatation Volvulus: The stomach twists trapping food and gases within. It’s a life-threatening condition typically caused by fast eating.
Juvenile Myoclonic Epilepsy: JME will cause uncontrollable seizures during a dog’s sleep.
Dermoid Sinus: A cyst underneath the skin is found on the spinal cord. It’s an inherited and painful condition.

Rhodesian Ridgeback Training

Ridgebacks are strong-willed so aren’t the best breed for first-time owners. In experienced hands, this breed is easy to train thanks to its intelligence. Once the owner’s leadership is established the Ridgeback is eager to please.

This breed is sensitive and requires firm leadership not harsh. Instead, use positive reinforcement methods. Ridgebacks are smart and learn fast. Daily socialization, training and exercise will nurture the Ridgeback into a well-rounded dog.

Like most smart dog breeds, Ridgebacks bore easily. Keep training sessions short and fun. It’s best to exercise a dog before training so they can get rid of any pent up energy! Use food rewards and toys as rewards.

Remain patient and don’t let them break household boundaries. Rhodesian Ridgeback puppies are boisterous and can be frustrating! But if they’re allowed to break the rules this will have an effect on how the household’s pecking order is perceived.

Rhodesian Ridgeback Interesting Facts

• In 2008 Jemima Harrison produced a BBC One documentary called Pedigree Dogs Exposed. It uncovered breeders who advocated culling the Rhodesian Ridgeback simply for being ridgeless here in the UK! Even the Rhodesian Ridgeback Club stated in their code of ethics that “Ridgeless puppies shall be culled”. Despite Ronnie Irving, Kennel Club Chairman at the time, denying knowledge of the practice, the club stated their code of ethics is approved by the KC yearly. The documentary drew intense criticism of the Kennel Club and Crufts.
• In the 1930s actor Errol Flynn purchased a Rhodesian Ridgeback from an English breeder, returning to America. He was one of the first to breed Ridgebacks in America. Unfortunately his bloodline no longer exists.
• In Germany, Etana the Rhodesian Ridgeback gave birth to 17 puppies! She had eight females and nine males. Owner Rasmona Wegemann, an animal psychiatrist, had to help rear the puppies as the strain on Etana’s nipples was immense!
• In Newport, South Wales, Rhodesian Ridgeback owner Sam Gordon was jailed for 28 months. He is also banned from owning dogs for 6 years. The man ordered his Ridgebacks to attack Cordell Roberts after biting the same man in a previous incident in 2020.
• In Billericay, Essex a Rhodesian Ridgeback was put down after biting a family friend 7 times. Astrid Plamer rung the doorbell, greeted the owners in the driveway, and went round the back of the house. After entering the rear of the property with the owner’s wife, the Rhodesian Ridgeback began to attack Ms Palmer leaving her with severe injuries.

The Little Viking Dog has an intriguing history. Today we’re going to take a look into this rather unknown breed. Learn all about the Swedish Vallhund below!

Swedish Vallhund Breed Standards:
Kennel Club Member?: Yes
Swedish Vallhund Lifespan: 12-15 years
Swedish Vallhund Exercise: Up to 1 hour each day
Height: Male 12.5-13.75 inches Female 11.5-12.75 inches
Weight: 9-16 kilograms
Hypoallergenic: No

Swedish Vallhunds are an achondroplastic breed. A term used to describe dwarfism. Their body is longer than their short legs. Some Swedish Vallhunds are born without tails whilst others vary in length. This confuses people into thinking the tail has been docked!

In Sweden the breed is called Västgötaspets and is also referred to as the Swedish Cow Dog. Their name Vallhund means herding dog in English. Although rare in the UK these dogs are well-loved in their native land.

Characteristics

Check out the pros and cons of the Swedish Vallhund dog breed below:

Positives:

• Highly intelligent and easy to train
• Tolerant of cold weather
• Ideal watchdog
• Low drooler
• Sociable and friendly with humans dogs, and cats

Negatives:

• Susceptible to weight gain
• Prone to separation anxiety
• Strong prey drive
• Vocal
• High level of grooming maintenance

The Swedish Vallhund is a medium-sized breed with short legs and a long body. Their ears are pricked and tail length varies per individual dog. Their medium-length coat is found in colours, Reddish Brown, Greyish Yellow, Reddish Yellow, Steel Grey, Greyish Brown, with dark hairs along the back, side of the body and neck.

Swedish Vallhund Temperament

Swedish Cattle dogs are alert, energetic, friendly, and fearless. They’re deeply loyal towards their families and are adaptable, making them suited to a variety of different environments. Humorous and intelligent, Swedish Vallhunds are an intriguing breed!

These dogs are eager to please and make excellent companion dogs as well as herding dogs. Swedish Vallhunds aren’t aggressive or shy. They do have an independent side but that doesn’t prevent them from developing separation anxiety.

The Little Viking dogs are alert and will keep a watchdul eye on their territory. They won’t be afraid of strangers but their size doesn’t make them ideal guard dogs. At first they may be wary but should soon settle down with visitors.

Vallhunds are great with children but they may display herding behaviours. This commonly includes nipping at the feet but they’ll quickly learn its wrong. They’re playful and easygoing around children but are better suited for older kids.

In their past this breed used to drive away strange dogs. So it’s no surprise that some Vallhunds are wary of other dogs. Although their sociable nature is easy to make friends with! Socialization will help encourage friendlier behaviour.

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History

Hailing from Västergötland, Sweden, the Swedish Vallhund settled in Britain from the 8th century. They arrived with the Vikings who raided and conquered parts of Britain including the British Isles.

The Vallhund is thought to have been developed by Scandanavian Spitz breeds mating with Welsh Corgis. Their ancestry is also linked to larger spitz types and moose-hunting dogs from Scandanavia. These canines were used as all-purpose farm dogs and cattle herders.

In the 1930s the breed almost became extinct. Thankfully, breed enthusiasts Count Bjorn von Rosen and Karl Gustaf Zettersen decided to establish a breeding programme. They travelled across Västergötland, looking for the best of the breed.

Their work led to the recognition of the Vallhund by the Swedish Kennel Club in 1943. The ancient Vallhund is now listed as the National Dog of Sweden. To this day they still work alongside Swedish farmers.

The modern breed arrived in England in 1974 by Lady Elizabeth Cartledge. Soon after, in 1983, they were imported to the United States. In 1984 the Swedish Vallhund received its UK Kennel Club recognition.

Exercise & Grooming

This breed requires up to one hour of exercise per day. Some adult Vallhunds could do with a little longer. As this breed is achondroplastic it’s important they don’t jump or climb until their growth plates have closed. This will usually take place around 9-12 months of age.

The Swedish Vallhund is great at dog sports and excels in agility, flyball, showmanship, rally, obedience, tracking and herding. Don’t forget to factor other forms of mental stimulation into their exercise routine.

As active herding dogs they’ll need exercise sessions across the day as opposed to all in one go. Vallhunds won’t make great jogging partners and sometimes a game of fetch in the garden is enough activity.

Vallhunds shed heaviest during the spring and autumn months. Their coats won’t need a trim but will need a brush once or twice a week. The best tools to use are slicker brushes, pin brushes, deshedding rakes and metal combs.

Clean their pricked ears from debris weekly. Baths should be given every 3 months or longer. Ensure their thick coat is washed thoroughly and blow dried after. Give the nails a fortnightly trim and brush the teeth multiple times a week.

Health

Check out the breed-related health conditions of the Swedish Vallhund below:

Persistent Pupillary Membrane: The pigmented tissue remnants in the eye usually disappear before birth. If this doesn’t happen tiny strands may be noticed across the pupil.
Cataracts: A genetic disorder causing an abnormal cloudiness in the eye due to a change of lens. If the opacity is large enough it’ll lead to blindness.
Distichiae: A few eyelashes grow abnormally and touch the surface of the eye. This can cause irritation but affected dogs typically live normal lives.
Swedish Vallhund Retinopathy: A hereditary eye condition damaging the rod and cone cells of the retina. In 2017, a genetic test was developed for this disorder.
Hip Dysplasia: Abnormal growth of the hip joint will cause hip joint laxity. Symptoms include pain and lameness which will develop into arthritis.

Swedish Vallhund Training

Deeply intelligent and eager to please, the Swedish Vallhund quickly learns new commands. Although they’re strong-willed these dogs thrive off attention from their owners, so in the right hands Vallhunds are relatively easy to train.

Repition is a turn off for this quick learner. Make their training sessions short and different each time. Practice in new environments and venture outdoors after developing a level of trust. But remember these herding dogs aren’t pushovers!

Whilst the breed is better for experienced handlers, determined first-time owners are welcomed. Begin socialization as soon as the Swedish Vallhund puppy starts its new life. Join puppy classes where they can meet new people and dogs.

Clicker training is a good method for herding dogs like the Vallhund. Press the click the moment the dog perfects a command. Give a food reward alongside this click. Repeat this and eventually, the click will become the reward. Avoid too many food treats as Vallhunds are prone to weight gain!

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Swedish Vallhund Interesting Facts

• Sweden released a documentary on the breed in 2014. It’s called Swedish Vallhund: A Big Dog in a Small Body. Originally filmed in Swedish, the documentary is also available in English.
• Across the world the Swedish Vallhund has been featured on stamps. These countries include Sweden, Russia, Ukraine, Nicagarua, Mali, and Tajikistan.
• Locki from Cannock, England won Best of Breed at Crufts in 2018. Despite the two-year old dog lacking show experience he managed to win the highly sought after prize at one of the world’s most well-known dog events! Loki is owner Lynn Pallatina’s first show dog. It was her first time entering him into a competition!
• Swedish Vallhunds have an impeccable sence of smell and are used as Search and Rescue dogs!

The Otterhound is a scenthound dating back to medieval Britain. They’re currently classed as a Vulnerable Native Breed. Let’s take a look into this rare and special canine.

Otterhound Breed Standards:
Kennel Club Member?: Yes
Otterhound Lifespan: 10-13 years
Otterhound Excercise: More than 2 hours each day
Height: Male 27 inches Female 24 inches
Weight: Male 52 kilograms Female 36 kilograms
Hypoallergenic: No

In 2020, only 7 Otterhound puppies were registered with the Kennel Club. Now it’s estimated there are under 2000 Otterhounds left in the world! Today, this breed is seriously at risk of extinction.

As of January 2021, all imported Otterhounds must be DNA tested for Glanzmann Thrombasthenia, a blood-clotting disorder. Due to the small number of Otterhounds left, it’s important this genetic disorder isn’t passed through the remaining few bloodlines.

Characteristics

Check out the pros and cons of the Otterhound dog breed below:

Positives:

• Independent, not prone to separation anxiety
• Family friendly dog
• Likes the water and can live on a boat
• Not a barker
• Low drooler

Negatives:

• High wanderlust potential
• Not an ideal watchdog
• Requires lots of daily exercise
• Strong prey drive
• Moderate shedding, high grooming needs

The Otterhound is a large dog breed with a rough coat and long floppy ears. Their double coat is waterproof and their feet are webbed, excellent for swimming. Coat colours are found in Liver & Tan, Black & Tan, Blue & Tan, Red, Wheaten, Blue, Black & Cream, Tan & Liver, and Tan & White.

Otterhound Temperament

The even-tempered Otterhound is an endangered hunting breed so naturally, it has a strong prey drive. This dog can be suitable for a determined first-time owner. Otterhounds are affectionate, loving but a little boisterous during their puppy years.

Independent by nature, this canine isn’t prone to separation anxiety. But this trait does require a patient owner. Playful and amiable, the Otterhound is a pleasure to have in the home, provided their exercise needs are met!

Otterhounds aren’t watchdogs or guard dogs. They’ll probably bark at the knock of the door but that’s about it. Aggression and nervousness aren’t found in the Otterhound personality. Some will be friendly and welcoming to visitors whilst others are a little more reserved.

Children will find a forever friend in the Otterhound! An excitable playmate with buckets full of energy! This large breed dog could accidentally knock over smaller children but won’t harm them intentionally.

When it comes to other dogs, the Otterhound is friendly. However, they’ll probably view small dogs as prey so keep them leashed. They can live in a home with other canines. An Otterhound puppy should be reared with a cat for the best possible outcomes.

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History

The Otterhound is native to Britain and dates right back to the medieval era. The earliest mention of a similar dog to the Otterhound is in 1360! Otters would eat lots of fish, a source of food for humans too. So, a dog was needed to reduce the number of otters.

Over time, the Otterhound was developed. The breed was first officially noticed in the 1800s. Many believe the Otterhound’s ancestry is linked to French and English Hounds. It’s confirmed the Grand Griffon Vendéen, Bloodhound and Griffon Nivernais was bred into some Otterhound lines.

Otterhounds are excellent hunters both on land and in the water. These scenthounds have a remarkable tracking ability and can follow scents for hours. Their stamina is something the breed has retained to this day.

In 1978, Otter hunting stopped. Whilst it hasn’t been banned, the drastic drop in otter numbers meant the animal was now listed as protected species. As a result, this meant the need for Otterhounds lessened and breed numbers took a hit.

Today there are only two pure Otterhound packs left. They’re known as the Carmarthenshire and Pembrokeshire Minkhounds. However, their hunting bloodlines aren’t ideal for those looking solely for a companionship dog.

Exercise & Grooming

Otterhounds require an incredible amount of daily exercise. They’ll need over two hours each day some of which needs to include vigorous play. A run around the garden isn’t enough for this dog!

Unless in an enclosed space the Otterhound shouldn’t be allowed off-leash. Their strong prey drive isn’t worth the risk. This dog loves the water and their webbed feet and oily coat makes them great swimmers. Aim to take them swimming every now and again.

Mental stimulation is hugely important for this intelligent dog. Puzzle games, exploring, and interactive play are some forms of mental stimulation. Dog sports such as obedience, agility, and tracking are also good for the Otterhound.

Brush through their coats twice a week to remove dead fur. Use a slicker brush or comb. Their fur won’t require trimming and should be left as natural as possible. Keep their beards clean by wiping their mouths after eating.

Baths them every 1-3 months depending on how dirty the Otterhound gets! Their long, floppy ears will be prone to infection so clean them weekly. Be sure to trim their nails every ten days and don’t forget to brush their teeth!

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Health

Find out the breed-related health issues of the Otterhound dog below:

Hip Dysplasia: Hip joint laxity is caused by the abnormal growth of the hip joint. Lameness and pain will be experienced which will eventually lead to arthritis.
Epilepsy: A common neurological condition in dogs that causes uncontrollable seizures.
Bloat: Typically seen in large, deep-chested breeds, this condition causes the stomach to enlarge and twist. It’s a life-threatening condition.
Glanzmann Thrombasthenia: A bleeding disorder caused by the abnormality of specialized cells use for blood clotting. It’s a genetic disorder.
Panosteitis: Also known as growing pains, Panosteitis is commonly seen in dogs from 5 months to 12 months. Dogs will outgrow this condition but shouldn’t be exercised until symptoms are gone.

Otterhound Training

Otterhounds have an independent side that can put a strain on training. However, they’re also highly intelligent and will quickly pick up on commands. They can be a little sensitive so use positive training techniques.

Recalling this dog is one of the harder commands to practice. If this dog gets a whiff of something, they’ll be off! It’s important to begin training the second the Otterhound puppy enters its new home.

Routine is great for both humans and dogs. Set a daily schedule so the dog can learn to follow it. It’s also an ideal way to housebreak the Otterhound. Exercise goes hand in hand with training. A dog pent up with energy is easily distracted.

Clicker training is a good method for Otterhounds. Use the click at the exact moment the dog perfects the command. Offer a reward at the same time as the click. Repeat this and over time the click will eventually become the reward.

Otterhound Interesting Facts

• 8 week old, twin Otterhounds Ronnie and Reggie (named after the Kray twins of course!) are just some of the remaining Otterhound puppies that could help pull this breed away from extinction. Their names are temporary until they find their new homes but it’s hoped they’ll continue the Otterhound bloodline.
• The film adaptation of Annie in 1972 saw Bingo the Otterhound cast as Sandy, the street dog. The 6 year old canine was treated to beef and steak every night of filming!
• Whilst the Otterhound isn’t much of a barker it isn’t uncommon to hear them sing. These dogs are packed with personality and some love to sing!
• Otterhounds are problem solvers so don’t be surprised if they can open a fridge, drawer or door!

The Glen of Imaal Terrier is one of the world’s rarest dog breeds. We’re going to take a look into this breed’s temperament, history, exercise needs and more!

Glen of Imaal Terrier Breed Standards:
Kennel Club Member?: Yes
Glen of Imaal Terrier Lifespan: 10-15 years
Glen of Imaal Terrier Exercise: Up to 1 hour each day
Height: 12.5-14 inches
Weight: 14.5-18 kilograms
Hypoallergenic?: No

The Glen of Imaal Terrier is an achondroplastic breed. It’s a genetic disorder also described as short-limbed dwarfism. Whilst most wiry coated Terrier breeds are hypoallergenic, the Glen of Imaal Terrier isn’t one of them.

This hardy and robust canine isn’t easily scared. In fact, they’re fearless just like the other members of the Terrier family! They are one of four Irish Terrier breeds and also go by the name the Wicklow Terrier.

Characteristics

Check out the pros and cons of the Glen of Imaal Terrier dog breed below:

Positives:

• Quieter than other Terrier breeds
• Independent, can be left alone
• Low shedder and easy to groom
• Easy to train and intelligent
• Alert, makes an ideal watchdog

Negatives:

• Not a hypoallergenic Terrier
• Strong prey drive
• Vulnerable Native Breed, harder to find Glen of Imaal Terrier puppies
• Prone to weight gain

The Glen of Imaal Terrier is described as a ‘big dog with short legs’. This achondroplastic breed is remembered for its bowed legs and half-pricked ears. Their wiry coat is found in the colours Wheaten, Brindle and Blue (all shades).

Glen of Imaal Temperament

These energetic canines are much easier than other Terriers and tend to be more relaxed. Glens are independent so can be left alone without much risk of separation anxiety. These loyal dogs are fairly quiet and are placid in the home.

This dog wouldn’t be a Terrier if it didn’t like to dig! Avoid placing out any nice flower beds until this trait can be suppressed! Due to their independence, this breed does have high wanderlust potential so it’s important they have a securely fenced garden.

Glens are great watchdogs but not guard dogs. They’ll bark to alert their owner to any strangers entering their territory. Socialized Glens may be wary at first but are typically polite to new visitors.

When it comes to children, this dog is a great companion and playmate. Due to their fragile body, they should only be around children that know how to handle them. Despite its size, this dog plays rough so keep younger children at bay.

Glens aren’t the friendliest with other dogs. It’s not uncommon for them to get into a scrap at the dog park! These little dogs just won’t back down. Avoid cats and smaller household pets due to the breed’s strong prey drive. They can live alongside other dogs.

History

Hailing from County Wicklow, Ireland is the Glen of Imaal Terrier. The breed is believed to share its ancestry with the Kerry, Soft Coated Wheaten and Irish Terrier. They were developed in the Glen of Imaal and have resided in this area since the 17th century.

These canines were primarily used as badger hunters but could also do other jobs on farms. In the old days, Glens were called the Turnspit dog. This is because they would turn the meat over in the kitchens by running inside a wheel (like a hamster).

Glens had to be quiet when going to ground so they wouldn’t scare off their prey. In Kennel Club championships a Glen would be disqualified if it made noise at the quarry. This silent trait has stayed with them, making the breed one of the quieter Terriers.

In 1966 badger trials were banned in Ireland. So it’s no surprise that during the 20th-century breed numbers dropped significantly. Two breeders in particular Willie Kane, Tipperary and Paddy Brennan Tinahely, Co Wicklow are attributed to reviving the breed.

Glens were recognized by the Irish Kennel Club in 1934 but the Canadian Kennel Club kept Glens on the miscellaneous list until 2017! Today this Terrier is rare and is listed as a Vulnerable Native Breed by the UK Kennel Club.

Exercise & Grooming

Spend up to one hour each day exercising the Glen of Imaal Terrier. Don’t be surprised if they can go on for longer! This energetic breed will need some form of vigorous play throughout the day. But don’t be too harsh on their short legs as this can be damaging.

Glen Imaal Terrier puppies should avoid jumping, climbing stairs, and even getting on a couch. It’ll be too much stress for their growing joints. Allow the growth plates to close. This will take place around the age of 9-12 months.

Mental stimulation is important for this exceptional working breed, especially if they’re used for companionship. These canines are intelligent and can become destructive if bored. Glen of Imaal Terriers excel in agility, earthdog trials, obedience, barn hunting, and tracking.

Brush their coat every few days with a pin or slicker brush. Combs may also be used too. The fur is water-resistant and has a shaggy look to it. Keep the ears cleaned weekly and trim their nails fortnightly.

Their outer coat is rough and requires hand stripping 2-3 times a year. As opposed to clipping, hand stripping will remove the dead fur from the root completely, allowing a new coat to grow through.

Bath the Glen of Imaal Terrier every 3 months, unless he gets dirty before then! Frequent bathing will result in a softer coat and will strip the fur of its natural oils. If necessary use a blow dryer to dry the coat.

Health

Find out the breed-related health conditions of the Glen of Imaal Terrier below:

Hip Dysplasia: The hip joint grows abnormally resulting in the ball and socket of the joint not fitting together correctly. This will cause pain, lameness and eventually arthritis.
Progressive Retinal Atrophy (crd3): A degenerative health condition targeting the photoreceptor cells. Over time this will cause blindness.
Allergies: Skin issues, particularly with the paws can affect the Glen of Imaal Terrier.
PCDU: Premature Closure of the Distal Ulna is a limb disorder causing the distal growth plate to close prematurely.

Glen of Imaal Terrier Training

The Glen of Imaal Terrier can be a little stubborn so they’re better suited to experienced owners. They need a firm leader that won’t let them push the boundaries. Despite their small size, these canines can be very dominant just like the rest of their Terrier family!

Glens pick up commands quickly so be careful they don’t pick up bad habits just as fast! They have a special character and are versatile by nature. These dogs learn better in short 5-minute training sessions. Anything longer will begin to bore them.

Early socialization is important in order to raise a well-rounded dog. Try some local group training classes. Here, the Glen of Imaal Terrier puppy can interact with humans, dogs and learn new commands!

Be positive as harsh corrections won’t work on the Glen! Avoid dishing out too many food treats as they’re prone to weight gain. It’s important this dog acknowledges its owner’s authority so focus on respect training first.

Glen of Imaal Terrier Interesting Facts

• The Glen Sit is a term to describe the odd way the Glen of Imaal Terrier sits down. They sit on their backside so their back is vertical and upright!
• In 2020 only 36 Glen of Imaal Terrier puppies were registered with the Kennel Club. For more than a decade this breed has been rare and in 2008 it was reported that there were less than 1000 Glens left in the world!
• It is thought the beginning of the Glen of Imaal Terrier started during Elizabeth I reign. They’re the product of the Irish Rebellion. French mercenaries were sent to Ireland to quash the rebels. Soon after they settled in Wicklow it’s thought their hounds with low-slung bodies bred with local Terriers thus creating the Glen!

The Mexican hairless dog is hard to miss! Its unique hairless trait makes them easily identifiable. Today we’re going to look into this intriguing dog breed!

Xoloitzcuintli Breed Standards:
Kennel Club Member?: Yes
Xoloitzcuintli Lifespan: 13-18 years
Xoloitzcuintli Exercise: Up to 1 hour
Height: Standard 18-23 inches Miniature 14-18 inches Toy 10-14 inches
Weight: Standard 14-25 kg Miniature 7-14 kg Toy 5-7 kg
Hypoallergenic: Yes

The Xoloitzcuintli is found in three varieties standard, miniature, and toy. Whilst they may not be one of the purest dogs in the world, the Xoloitzcuintli temperament has roughly remained similar. Their name is pronounced ‘sho-low-eets-QUEENT-lee’

Like the Chinese Crested dog, the Xoloitzcuintli also shares the hairless trait. However, some are born coated and both varieties can be born to the same litter! The hairless trait is often linked to dental abnormalities such as missing teeth.

Characteristics

Check out the pros and cons of the Xoloitzcuintli dog breed below:

Positives:

• Hypoallergenic, better breed for allergy sufferers
• Xolos can live in apartments
• Requires minimal grooming
• Highly intelligent
• Affectionate with their family

Negatives:

• Prone to separation anxiety
• Strong prey drive
• High wanderlust potential
• Hairless dogs may suffer from skin conditions
• Low tolerance for hot and cold weather

The Xoloitzcuintli is a medium-sized dog. The breed resembles the Pharoah Hound in appearance. Xolos have upright ears and long necks. There is great variety in colour and skin is often spotted. Common colours include Bronze, Black, Red, Blue, Blonde and Grey.

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Temperament

The Xoloitzcuintli personality has kept to its primitive roots. So, they’re better suited to experienced owners. This breed is affectionate, protective, sensitive, calm, and alert. They don’t like being left alone and could develop separation anxiety if this becomes repetitive.

Xoloitzcuintli dogs will express themselves through barking but only when they have something to say! These dogs are definitely one of the more unique breeds out there. But they do make excellent companions.

When it comes to strangers, the Xoloitzcuintli will be aloof. They’re keen watchdogs and are always on the alert but aren’t great guard dogs. Some Xolos prefer not to be touched by strangers. It’s important to encourage friendly behaviour through training and socialization.

Xolo dogs like a calm environment so they’re better suited to older children. Smaller varieties should keep away from younger kids due to their fragility. This breed is loving and will make a great family dog.

Sociable and friendly the Xoloitzcuintli loves meeting new dogs on their walks. It’s often better to get a Xoloitzcuintli puppy in pairs as they prefer the company! This canine is a pack animal and is also able to live with cats.

History

The Mexican Hairless dog is estimated to be at least 3,500 years old. Their ancestors migrated from Asia with some of the earliest human migrants. Their name derives from, Nahtul, a language mostly spoken in Central Mexico by Aztecs.

Xolotl is an ancient God of fire and lightning. He’s a dog-headed man acting as a soul guide for the dead. Itzcuintli stands for dog in Nahtul. The Aztecs believed the Xoloitzcuintli was sacred. If their owner passed away, they’d be sacrificed and buried alongside them.

It was thought the Xolo would guide spirits in the afterlife. Aztecs also thought the Xoloitzcuintli could protect the home from evil spirits. Yet despite their sacred status, these domesticated dogs were eaten! Those that settled from Spain enjoyed eating the Xolo so much, it almost became extinct!

Many European explorers recorded the Xoloitzcuintli in their journals. Christopher Columbus was one of these explorers. They were also depicted in Ancient Mesoamerican art. Archaeologists have estimated 75% of burials during 300 B.C and A.D 300 contained a small ceramic statue of the Xolo.

Xolos were one of the first breeds to be recognised by the AKC in 1887. Yet by 1959 they’d been deregistered due to a significant drop in breed numbers. Breed enthusiasts have worked hard to re-establish the Xolo. The Xoloitzcuintli is the National Dog of Mexico.

Exercise & Grooming

The standard Xoloitzcuintli should receive one hour of exercise per day. However, they won’t refuse more! The miniature Xoloitzcuintli and toy variety can be exercised slightly less. Due to their strong prey drives, keep them on leash unless in an enclosed space.

Whilst they may not look like it, this breed is actually a great dog sports competitor! They do well in obedience and agility categories. Mental stimulation is also important for a Xoloitzcuintli. Keep their brains busy!

A coated Xoloitzcuintli should be brushed lightly with a rubber brush once a week. Hairless varieties don’t require brushing. These canines are prone to dental issues so teeth should be brushed daily.

Don’t overwash the Xolo as this could damage their skin. Hairless varieties should be moisturised but not excessively. Their sensitive skin is prone to acne and sunburn. Clean the ears weekly and trim their nails fortnightly.

Health

The Xolo is generally a healthy breed but there are some health issues you should be aware of. Check out the breed related health problems found in the Xoloitzcuintli dog below:

Hip Dysplasia: The hip joint develops abnormally causing the ball and socket to rub and grind against one another. This will cause pain, swelling, inflammation and eventually arthritis.
Patellar Luxation: The kneecap temporarily dislocates out of place before relocating back into position just as quick.
Skin Issues: Hairless Xolos are prone to skin issues. This can include blackheads, plugged hair follicles, chronic allergies, and bacterial infections.

The Xoloitzcuintli may also suffer from minor eye problems and dental issues.

Xoloitzcuintli Training

Xolos take a little longer to mature so owners should keep this in mind during training. Sessions shouldn’t last longer than ten minutes as the Xolo will soon lose interest. Positive reinforcement is the only way forward as this sensitive breed won’t do well with harsh corrections.

Structure is important for the Xoloitzcuintli. A routine helps a dog establish what is expected of them. It’s also a great way to easily housebreak a dog. Return them to the same potty spot outdoors and eventually, the repetition will sink in.

To ensure a well-tempered dog early socialization is vital. Meeting new people and dogs will prevent fear-based reactions. Take the Xoloitzcuintli to different environments where they can experience new sights and sounds.

Barking can be a downside to this breed. To prevent this from becoming an excessive trait teach the Xolo the quiet command. As soon as the Xoloitzcuintli puppy enters its new home boundaries should be set. Be consistent with discipline.

Xoloitzcuintli Interesting Facts

• In Essex Park, England two Xoloitzcuintli puppies were abandoned. They were found by a dog walker in a cardboard box and were soon handed over to Dogs Trust in Basildon. The dogs were now in safe hands and were named Dandelion and Burdock.
• In Liverpool, a giant robotic dog paraded around the city. He is called Xolo, the Giant Dog and naturally attracted crowds of people. The robotic dog was created by French theatre group Royale de Luxe.
• In 2009, E.T the Xoloitzcuintli was known as Britain’s ugliest dog. He was stuck at the RSPCA centre in Waltham Abbey, Essex for months. At the time he was one of only 27 Xoloitzuintli dogs in the UK!
• The Ancient Mexican Hairless dog featured in Pixar’s animated production Coco. Lee Unkrich, director of Coco, was inspired by the Xoloitzcuintli after a trip to Mexico. The local Mexican Xolo dogs were invited to interact with filmmakers so they could be studied in greater detail.
• Throughout its thousands of years existence the Xolo has been depicted in may art forms. Xolos were also found in pre-hispanic art. Today Mexican artists are still mesmerized by the breed. Diego Rivera and Frida Kahlo even owned the Xoloitzcuintle.
• Did you know for centuries the Xoloitzcuintli has been used as a human water bottle. They’d often be found in the beds of their owners keeping them warm. The warmth from their body is soothing especially for those who are ill.