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Chow Chow (Rough)

A regal breed with strong muscles and heavy bone, the Chow Chow is an ancient breed from northern China. Though affectionate and devoted to his family, the Chow Chow is somewhat independent and stubborn. An excellent guard dog, the Chow Chow requires early socialisation, training and daily exercise. The breed’s thick double coat requires regular grooming and bathing.

DID YOU KNOW? Television personality Martha Stewart owns a number of Chow Chows, which often are featured on her morning show.

ALSO KNOWN AS: Chow, Chowdren

 

The need-to-know

 

  • Dog suitable for experienced owners
  • Extra training required
  • Enjoys active walks
  • Enjoys walking an hour a day
  • Large dog
  • Some drool
  • Requires grooming daily
  • Non hypoallergenic breed
  • Quiet dog
  • Guard dog. Barks, alerts and it's physically protective
  • May require training to live with other pets
  • May require training to live with kids
Lifespan:
12 – 15 years
Weight:
18 – 31.5kg
Height:
46 – 56cm
Colours:
Red; black; cream; blue or cinnamon
Size:
Large
Kennel Club Group:
Utility
Personality

While bonded to their owner, the Chow Chow is generally aloof and reserved, is both stubborn and independent, is not playful, and in general neither gives or likes affection (and may actively object to it!). This can be problematic in a dog who looks like a giant teddy bear.

 

Their thick coat also means that in hot weather they can get over-heated which can increase any irritability. Breeders have worked hard over the years to improve temperaments so it’s important to get your puppy from a responsible source.

 

The Chow Chow will suit an owner who will enjoy their aloofness and independence and who doesn’t want a dog that shows a great deal of affection and instead gives their love at a distance!

History and Origins

The origin of the Chow Chow dog breed is a bit of a mystery, but they probably came from Mongolia and Manchuria, where they were bred for food and their fur was used for clothing. They were later introduced to China. Centuries ago, they were also used to guard the temples against evil spirits.

 

The Chow was used as a multi-purpose dog and found work in several professions including hunting, guarding, sled and cart pulling and as watchdogs.

Nutrition and Feeding

Your Chow Chow's diet needs to have the right balance of all the main nutrient groups including a constant supply of fresh water. It's important to conduct regular body condition scores to ensure you keep your dog in ideal shape and remember to feed them at least twice daily and in accordance with the feeding guidelines of their particular food.

Exercise

The Chow Chow does not require a lot of exercise – about an hour daily – but they do like the outdoors, and are quite happy doing their own thing in the back garden. They must have somewhere shaded and cool that they can retreat to in warm and hot weather. Too much exercise too young can lead to bone and joint problems in later life, so exercise must be monitored closely.

Other Information

Health and Common Issues

 

The most common health problems in the Chow are elbow dysplasia and eyelid problems. Like many breeds they can also suffer hip dysplasia (a condition that can lead to mobility problems). Hip scoring of dogs prior to breeding is therefore important. Some are also prone to cruciate problems.

 

Space Requirements

 

The Chow Chow is a large dog with territorial tendencies so they do best in a large house with a big well-fenced garden. They need to have shade so they can enjoy the outdoors without getting over-heated.

 

Training Chow Chows

 

Chow chows are resistant to obedience training but do need to be taught to walk well on a lead and should have plenty of early and ongoing socialisation. They are unlikely to be particularly social to dogs or people they don’t know but they do need to learn to tolerate them. Any training should be done with positive reinforcement as this breed does not tolerate being told off.

 

Best Family Dog Breeds

 

The Chow Chow doesn’t make a great family dog as they are not particularly tolerant or playful, although they can learn to live with sensible older children. While many dogs are traditionally thought of as being good with children, all dogs and children need to be taught to get on with and respect each other, and be safe together. Even so, dogs and young children should never be left alone together and adults should supervise all interactions between them.

 

Did You Know?

 

  • The Chow Chow has a blue/black tongue (as does the Shar Pei, polar bears and giraffes!)They have 44 teeth unlike all other dogs which have 42.
  • The Chow Chow has been a very important part of Chinese cultural history. One 8th century Emperor is reported to have kept a kennel of 5,000 Chow Chows looked after by 10,000 huntsmen.
  • Psychoanalyst, Sigmund Freud always had a Chow Chow in the room when he was seeing patients – partly because it seemed to make them far more inclined to talk about their problems, but also because Jofi, his favourite dog would always indicate when the patient’s hour was up and so Freud never had to look at his watch.
  • As the Chow Chow has deep set eyes, they have poor peripheral vision so always make sure you approach them from the front.
Chinese Crested

A slender, fine-boned toy breed, the Chinese Crested is believed to have descended from African hairless dogs. For centuries, the breed accompanied Chinese sailors on the high seas, and sailors frequently traded puppies with local merchants at port cities around the world. Elegant and graceful, the Chinese Crested is a lively dog that makes a playful, loving companion. The breed comes in two coat varieties — hairless and powderpuff — both which shed little to no hair.

DID YOU KNOW? Chinese Crested dogs have made appearances in several popular films and television shows. They include: “Krull” from “How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days,” “Fluffy,” who was Cruella DeVille's dog in “102 Dalmatians,” and “Halston” from the sitcom “Ugly Betty.”

ALSO KNOWN AS: Powder Puff, The Hairless

 

The need-to-know

 

  • Dog suitable for owners with some experience
  • Some training required
  • Enjoys gentle walks
  • Enjoys walking an hour a day
  • Small dog
  • Minimum drool
  • Requires grooming every other day
  • Hypoallergenic breed
  • Chatty and vocal dog
  • Guard dog. Barks and alerts
  • Great with other pets
  • May require training to live with kids
Lifespan:
13 – 15 years
Weight:
2.3 – 5.4kg
Height:
23 – 33cm
Colours:
Any colour or combination of colours is accepted
Size:
Small
UK Kennel Club Groups:
Toy
Personality

Described as ‘happy-go-lucky’ and playful, the Chinese Crested thrives on human company, and fulfils the companion dog role excellently – never happier than when on a loved one’s lap.

 

Bright and intelligent, the Chinese Crested can be trained to a high standard or simply kept entertained and mentally stimulated learning tricks and basic obedience.

History and Origins

Country of Origin: China

 

The origins of the Chinese Crested dog are unclear, and much debated. It is thought that their ancestors came from Africa, and moved east to Asia, travelling with sailors as useful ships dogs, and eventually spreading to the Americas.

 

It is quite likely that these unusual and attractive little dogs appealed to wealthy, influential royals and nobility wherever they went, and would have been gifted and traded as many dog breeds have been.

 

One of the earliest portrayals of the Chinese Crested dog is in Robert Plot’s ‘Natural History of Staffordshire – 1686, with a description and illustration that is almost identical to the modern Chinese Crested.

Nutrition and Feeding

Toy dogs have a fast metabolism, meaning they burn energy at a high rate, although their small stomachs mean that they must eat little and often. Small-breed foods are specifically designed with appropriate levels of key nutrients and smaller kibble sizes to suit smaller mouths. This also encourages chewing and improves digestion.

Exercise

Thirty minutes exercise a day should be the minimum, although a fit, young Crested is capable of more. Be aware this is a dog who will feel the cold and won’t appreciate wet or windy weather much so you have to time your walks well – and invest in a dog coat for the winter. Several short walks round a variety of routes, plus some mental stimulation in the form of training and games will keep them happy and fulfilled.

Other Information

Health and Common Issues

 

The Chinese Crested can be predisposed to skin complaints and sun burn. Like other small breeds they can suffer from kneecaps that may temporarily slip out of place (luxating patellas), and as with many breeds hereditary eye disorders can occur and so eye testing is recommended. The breed club monitor the health of the breed carefully and should be contacted for the most up-to-date information and details of any DNA or additional testing they recommend. Breed Clubs can be found on the Kennel Club website.

 

Space Requirements

 

This is a small dog who doesn’t take up much space, as long as you can provide a warm home and secure garden, with access to a variety of walks, this is a dog who can be happy anywhere their people are.

 

Training Chinese Crested

 

The Chinese Crested may be small, but they are not lacking in intelligence! They are easy to train using positive reinforcement and the Crestie is capable of learning anything a dog of that size can learn! A Chinese Crested will be kept happy with a variety of activities suited to their size, including games, puzzles and trick training, but there is no reason a Chinese Crested couldn’t compete in agility, obedience or many of the other dog sports.

 

Best Family Dog Breeds

 

The Chinese Crested is a small and quite delicate dog and whilst they can make an excellent family pet, they can be a little too delicate for boisterous family life. With this in mind, the Crested is probably better with slightly older children, and a family who are at home most of the time. As a companion breed, the Crestie does not do well alone for very long, and must be trained to cope with short periods of human absence. While many dogs are traditionally thought of as being good with children, all dogs and children need to be taught to get on with and respect each other, and be safe together. Even so, dogs and young children should never be left alone together and adults should supervise all interactions between them.

 

Did You Know?

 

  • There are a number of medical myths about the Chinese Crested dog, one is that the touch of its skin would cure a patient of a fever! It was also claimed that arthritis could be cured if you used the dog as a heating pad. Whilst it is known that owning a dog can bring stress levels down and improve the owner’s health, it seems very unlikely these claims can be relied upon! Chinese Crested dogs helped to prevent the spread of the Black Death as they would catch rats on ships and due to their lack of fur, they were less likely to get fleas, making them less likely to spread the disease.
  • A burlesque dancer called Gypsy Rose Lee helped to popularise the breed as she was an active breeder and advocate for them, many Chinese Crested’s alive today can be traced back to Lee lines.
  • They’re incredibly popular in movies and you can spot them in films like How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days, New York Minute, 102 Dalmatians and Cats and Dogs.
  • Chinese Cresteds have sweat glands and can actually cool down without panting.
Chihuahua (Smooth Coat)

Graceful, alert and highly intelligent, the Chihuahua is an excellent pet for families with gentle, patient children. An ancient breed from Central America, the Chihuahua can be longhaired or shorthaired. Both coat varieties are easy to maintain. An ideal city dog, the Chihuahua requires little exercise but can be sensitive to cold temperatures.

DID YOU KNOW? In the hit film “Legally Blonde,” a Chihuahua starred as “Bruiser,” the pampered pet of Elle Woods, played by Reese Witherspoon.

 

The need-to-know

 

  • Dog suitable for experienced owners
  • Basic training required
  • Enjoys gentle walks
  • Enjoys walking half an hour a day
  • Little toy dog
  • Minimum drool
  • Requires grooming once a week
  • Non hypoallergenic breed
  • Very vocal dog
  • Guard dog. Barks and alerts
  • Great with other pets
  • Great family dog
Lifespan:
10–18 years
Weight:
1.8–2.7kg
Height:
15–23cm
Colours:
The Chihuahua has two coat types: short-haired and long-haired and comes in a variety of colours including solid colours such as: black; white; fawn; chocolate; grey or silver and tricolours such as: chocolate, black or blue with tan and white. They may
Size:
Small
Kennel Club Group:
Toy
Personality

The Chihuahua tends to bond closely with one or two people, with whom they will be curious, lively and intelligent, as well as deeply and constantly affectionate. However, without adequate socialisation, the breed will not take kindly to strangers and can appear nervous, yappy and even snappy. Chihuahuas must be socialised as early as possible or they will become anxious in new environments and will not get along with strangers, children and other household pets.

 

The Chihuahua will suit an owner who may have little space in their homes but still want a lively, affectionate companion who will be able to come everywhere with them as this is not a dog who is easily able to tolerate owner absences.

History and Origins

A small dog, called a Techichi, was an important part of Toltec and Aztec cultures. Techichi were the pets of the wealthy and were cremated with the dead in order to take on the deceased's sins so that the person could enter the next world without angering the gods. The dogs were also supposed to guide the deceased through the underworld and fight off evil spirits. Some believe that the Chihuahua is the product of breeding between the Techichi and a small, hairless dog from Asia.

 

The Chihuahua is a state in Mexico and it’s from this state that the modern Chihuahua dog breed was first exported to America. Theory has it that the modern breed developed from the ancient strains of the Techichi, mixed with small dogs of Mexico, Arizona and Texas.

Nutrition and Feeding

Toy dogs have a fast metabolism, meaning they burn energy at a high rate, although their small stomachs mean that they must eat little and often. Small-breed foods are specifically designed with appropriate levels of key nutrients and smaller kibble sizes to suit smaller mouths. This also encourages chewing and improves digestion.

Exercise

The Chihuahua can adapt to however much exercise you would like to give, within reason. Chihuahuas tend to have bursts of energy where they play excitedly, but do not need a lot of walking – half an hour daily should suffice. It’s recommended that Chihuahuas wear a harness instead of a collar due to their fragile tracheas (windpipes.)

Other Information

Health and Common Issues

 

As with many small breeds, the Chihuahua can suffer from kneecaps that may temporarily slip out of place (a condition known as patella luxation) and a windpipe problem. The shape of their head can make them prone to water on the brain (hydrocephalus), and some eye problems.

 

Space Requirements

 

The perfect dog for a small urban space, although they do need to have access to the outdoors for exercise and very frequent toileting.

 

Training Chihuahuas

 

Chihuahuas are surprisingly smart and when it comes to training, should very definitely be treated as a ‘real dog’ as they really enjoy working with their owners. Chihuahuas have even been seen in the main ring at Crufts competing in Heelwork to Music! Just remember when you are training your chihuahua to use the tiniest of treats as rewards. Like many toy dogs, Chihuahuas often find toilet training difficult and this may well be that owners are unaware of just how tiny their digestive systems are and they need to go out far more often than they expect. They will be quite mature before they can go through the night.

 

Best Family Dog Breeds

 

While the Chihuahua can get on with everyone in the family, they are generally too small for young children and not able to cope with boisterous games. While many dogs are traditionally thought of as being good with children, all dogs and children need to be taught to get on with and respect each other, and be safe together. Even so, dogs and young children should never be left alone together and adults should supervise all interactions between them.

 

Did You Know?

 

  • The Chihuahua is famous for being the smallest dog in the world.
  • Their popularity has soared recently as the preferred and pampered pet of celebrities and this has led to irresponsible breeding.
  • Chihuahua’s shiver a lot but that doesn’t always mean they’re cold, they also do it when they’re excited or scared too!
  • The current smallest dog living is a Chihuahua called Milly, standing at just 9.65cm tall!
  • In terms of brain size in comparison to body, the Chihuahua has the biggest brain of all dog breeds.
Chihuahua (Long Coat) (chihuahua long hair)

The Toy-sized long-haired Chihuahua has a flat or slightly wavy coat that comes in a variety of colours from fawn to black. The ears should be dripping with fringe, a substantial ruff encircles the neck, and the legs should be well feathered. A dainty, compact dog, adults measure 15-23cm and weigh between 1.8-2.7kg.

 

The need-to-know

 

  • Dog suitable for experienced owners
  • Basic training required
  • Enjoys gentle walks
  • Enjoys walking half an hour a day
  • Little toy dog
  • Minimum drool
  • Requires grooming every other day
  • Non hypoallergenic breed
  • Very vocal dog
  • Guard dog. Barks and alerts
  • Great with other pets
  • Great family dog
Personality

The long-haired Chihuahua tends to bond closely with one or two people, with whom he will be curious, lively and intelligent, as well as deeply and constantly affectionate. However, without adequate early socialisation, the breed will not take kindly to strangers and can appear nervous, yappy and even snappy. Chihuahuas must be socialised as early as possible or they will become anxious in new environments and will not get along with strangers, children and other household pets. They are a clannish breed and enjoy being with other Chihuahuas.

 

History and Origins

The Toy-sized long-haired Chihuahua has a flat or slightly wavy coat that comes in a variety of colours from fawn to black. The ears should be dripping with fringe, a substantial ruff encircles the neck, and the legs should be well feathered. A dainty, compact dog, adults measure 15-23cm and weigh between 1.8-2.7kg.

Nutrition and Feeding

Toy dogs have a fast metabolism, meaning they burn energy at a high rate, although their small stomachs mean that they must eat little and often. Small-breed foods are specifically designed with appropriate levels of key nutrients and smaller kibble sizes to suit smaller mouths. This also encourages chewing and improves digestion.

Exercise

The long-haired Chihuahua can adapt to however much exercise you would like to give it, within reason. Chihuahuas tend to have bursts of energy where they play excitedly, but do not need a lot of walking – half an hour daily should suffice. It is recommended that Chihuahuas wear a harness instead of a collar due to their fragile tracheas (windpipes).

Other Information

Health and Common Issues

 

As with many small breeds, the Chihuahua can suffer from kneecaps that may temporarily slip out of place (luxating patellas) and a windpipe problem. The shape of their head can make them prone to water on the brain (hydrocephalus), and some eye problems.

 

Best Family Dog Breeds

 

While many dogs are traditionally thought of as being good with children, all dogs and children need to be taught to get on with and respect each other, and be safe together. Even so, dogs and young children should never be left alone together and adults should supervise all interactions between them.

Cesky Terrier

Keen and alert with a balanced temperament, the Cesky Terrier is a pack hunter developed in the Czech Republic. This well-muscled, short-legged breed is a loyal, loving family companion but needs continued socialisation due to his reserved nature with strangers. Though not as excitable as other terriers, the Cesky still will chase something of interest. The breed requires regular exercise, and his fine coat needs moderate grooming with monthly clippings.

DID YOU KNOW? The Cesky Terrier was developed by Czechoslovakian geneticist Frantisek Horak.

ALSO KNOWN AS: Ceský Teriér, Bohemian Terrier

 

The need-to-know

 

  • Dog suitable for owners with some experience
  • Some training required
  • Enjoys gentle walks
  • Enjoys walking an hour a day
  • Small dog
  • Minimum drool
  • Requires grooming every other day
  • Non hypoallergenic breed
  • Very vocal dog
  • Guard dog. Barks and alerts
  • May require training to live with other pets
  • May require training to live with kids
Living Considerations
Good with children, not hypoallergenic, suitable for apartment living
Size
Small
Height
25 to 33 centimetres at the withers
Weight
7 to 10 kilograms
Coat
Medium
Energy
Medium
Colour
Any shade of gray from charcoal to platinum; may have white, brown, black and/or yellow markings
Activities
Agility, Conformation, Obedience, Rally Obedience, Tracking
Indoor/Outdoor
Indoor
Personality

The Cesky Terrier is a gentle-natured terrier when it comes to people. He can be reserved with those he doesn't know, but is friendly with those he's acquainted with. His working instincts are still keen – he is a tough and agile dog, with a fair amount of energy and stamina. He can be stubborn, but with the right motivation can show off his versatility and has competed in the canine sports of obedience and agility.

 

History and Origins

A relatively new breed, this national dog of the Czech Republic was created by Frantisek Horak, a breeder and geneticist, in 1949. Horak enjoyed hunting and decided to cross the Scottish Terrier with a Sealyham Terrier, to produce a smaller dog that would work in a pack and also go to ground, fitting into burrows that defeated the Scottie and Sealyham. The Cesky Terrier dog breed was used for hunting everything from fox, rabbit and game to wild boar!

Nutrition and Feeding

Small dogs have a fast metabolism, meaning they burn energy at a high rate, although their small stomachs mean that they must eat little and often. Small-breed foods are specifically designed with appropriate levels of key nutrients and smaller kibble sizes to suit smaller mouths. This also encourages chewing and improves digestion.

Exercise

The Cesky Terrier breed needs about an hour's exercise a day. His hunting instincts can come to the fore on an off-lead walk, so do ensure his recall is reliable before letting him off the lead in public areas.

Other Information

Health and Common Issues

 

The Cesky Terrier is generally a healthy dog. However, in common with many smaller breeds, they can also suffer from can suffer from kneecaps that may temporarily slip out of place (luxating patellas).

 

Best Family Dog Breeds

 

While many dogs are traditionally thought of as being good with children, all dogs and children need to be taught to get on with and respect each other, and be safe together. Even so, dogs and young children should never be left alone together and adults should supervise all interactions between them.

Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

A small spaniel with a short, but definite muzzle, large brown eyes and silky fur, the Cavalier dog's colours are black and tan, ruby, red and white (Blenheim) and tricolour (chestnut markings on a pearl white background). Adults measure 30-33cm and weigh 5.5-8kg.

 

The need-to-know

 

  • Dog suitable for experienced owners
  • Basic training required
  • Enjoys gentle walks
  • Enjoys walking an hour a day
  • Small dog
  • Minimum drool
  • Requires grooming every other day
  • Non hypoallergenic breed
  • Chatty and vocal dog
  • Guard dog. Barks and alerts
  • Great with other pets
  • Great family dog
Personality

This is an affectionate, undemanding family dog that is friendly with everyone, so he makes a good companion for sensible children and the more active elderly. They are not excessive barkers but will announce strangers. They are no guard dogs however, as they greet most people warmly. Cavalier King Charles Spaniels get along with everyone, including cats and other small pets. Being relatively small and easygoing, they make good travel companions.

 

History and Origins

The original Cavalier King Charles Spaniel dog breed was developed from the toy spaniels pictured in the work of 16th, 17th and 18th century painters such as Titian and Gainsborough. They were very common as a ladies' pet and were used to warm laps. King Charles II was so fond of his spaniels he could not be parted from them. By 1800, the snub-nose variety had taken over in popularity and the original spaniel was nearly lost. Only the Duke of Marlborough kept a line alive, breeding them at Blenheim castle. In 1926, an American, Roswell Eldridge, tried to re-establish the original dog of the Cavalier King Charles Spaniels by offering a prize for a dog with the appearance of the dogs in the historical portraiture. The prize was given out at Crufts for the then substantial sum of £25.

Nutrition and Feeding

Small dogs have a fast metabolism, meaning they burn energy at a high rate, although their small stomachs mean that they must eat little and often. Small-breed foods are specifically designed with appropriate levels of key nutrients and smaller kibble sizes to suit smaller mouths. This also encourages chewing and improves digestion.

Exercise

A King Charles Spaniel will adapt to whatever amount of exercise you feel able to give but do need some regular exercise or they will put on the pounds. About an hour's daily exercise is a good guide but they also enjoy games and training in which they can excel.

Other Information

Health and common issues

 

The most common inherited problems affecting the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel are heart disease, and a brain/spinal disorder (syringomyelia). As with many breeds, they can also suffer from various hereditary eye disorders, and hip dysplasia (a condition that can lead to mobility problems). Eye testing, hip scoring, brain/spine and heart assessment of dogs prior to breeding is therefore very important.

 

Best family dog breeds

 

While many dogs are traditionally thought of as being good with children , all dogs and children need to be taught to get on with and respect each other, and be safe together. Even so, dogs and young children should never be left alone together and adults should supervise all interactions between them.

 

Canadian Eskimo Dog
Canadian Eskimo Dog
Canadian Eskimo Dog

A large spitz-type dog, with a broad chest, thick coat, large bushy tail (that can be carried over the back) and erect ears, this is a striking, powerful dog that comes in black and white, grey and white, red and white, sable and white, and white and black. Males stand at 58-70cm and weigh 30-40kg when fully grown and females are 50-60cm tall and weigh 18-30kg.

 

The need-to-know

 

  • Dog suitable for experienced owners
  • Extra training required
  • Enjoys active walks
  • Enjoys walking more than two hours a day
  • Large dog
  • Heavy drool
  • Requires grooming daily
  • Non hypoallergenic breed
  • Very vocal dog
  • Guard dog. Barks and alerts
  • May require training to live with other pets
  • May require training to live with kids
Personality

The Canadian Eskimo dog is very much a specialist working breed rather than an average pet dog. Bred to pull weights of up to 80kg over 70 miles a day in the harshest of Arctic conditions, he does not thrive in an ordinary domestic set-up! Pack-orientated, he is nevertheless affectionate to people and is playful, curious and vocal.

 

History and Origins

The Canadian Eskimo dog breed worked with Inuit hunters to find seal breathing holes and hold large predators at bay, such as polar bears. It was also used as a sled dog. It is said there were 20,000 Canadian Eskimo dogs in its native homeland in the 1920s, but in just 50 years, with the development of the snowmobile, this number dropped to just 200, as sled dogs were simply no longer needed. A dedicated breeder set out to save the breed, but the Canadian Eskimo dog remains quite a rarity outside of Canada.

Nutrition and Feeding

Large breed dogs, as well as having large appetites, benefit from a different balance of nutrients including minerals and vitamins compared to smaller-breed dogs.

Exercise

The Canadian Eskimo dog needs a great deal of exercise to fulfil his needs – at least two hours of daily exercise. An energetic hobby such as sled-racing is a must, though warm-weather energetic exercise should be avoided because of the possibility of heat exhaustion.

Other Information

Health and common issues

 

The Canadian Eskimo dog is generally a robust dog with few breed specific health problems.

 

Best family dog breeds

 

While many dogs are traditionally thought of as being good with children , all dogs and children need to be taught to get on with and respect each other, and be safe together. Even so, dogs and young children should never be left alone together and adults should supervise all interactions between them.

 

Canaan Dog
Canaan Dog
Canaan Dog

The Canaan Dog dates back to Biblical times when he guarded the Israelites’ herds and flocks in the Land of Canaan. While loyal and loving with his family, the Canaan Dog is highly territorial and suspicious of strangers. He is best suited as a one-person or one-family companion. The Canaan Dog has a harsh, double coat that protects him from extreme temperatures and does not require much grooming.

DID YOU KNOW? During World War II, Dr. Rudolphina Menzel trained more than 400 Canaan Dogs to work as mine detectors for Middle East forces. In 1965, Ursula Berkowitz of Oxnard, Calif., imported four Canaan Dogs that helped establish the breed in the U.S

 

The need-to-know

 

  • Dog suitable for experienced owners
  • Extra training required
  • Enjoys active walks
  • Enjoys walking one to two hours a day
  • Medium dog
  • Minimum drool
  • Requires grooming once a week
  • Non hypoallergenic breed
  • Quiet dog
  • Guard dog. Barks and alerts
  • May require training to live with other pets
  • May require training to live with kids
Living Considerations
Good with older children, not hypoallergenic, suitable for apartment living if sufficiently exercised
Size
Medium
Height
Males – 51 to 61 centimetres, Females – 48 to 58.5 centimetres
Weight
Males – 20.5 to 25 kilograms, Females – 16 to 20.5 kilograms
Coat
Short
Energy
Medium
Colour
White with a mask, with or without additional patches of colour in shades of black through brown, or solid coloured in shades of black through brown with or without white trim
Activities
Tracking, Herding, Police and Military Work, Agility, Obedience, Conformation
Indoor/Outdoor
Both
Personality

Canaan dogs are one of the few 'natural' breeds in existence today. They have become domesticated over the years but still possess extremely strong survival instincts, which can make them independent and wary. They are territorial, but not aggressive to people, and protective of their family, both adults and children. They can be quarrelsome with other dogs and same-sex aggression is not unknown, so early and ongoing socialisation is essential.

 

History and Origins

The Canaan dog is an ancient breed from the Middle East. They were used to guard and herd the flocks of the ancient Israelites. When the Israelites dispersed so did their dogs, and only the strongest survived the harsh environment. The Bedouin tribes adopted some of the dogs to guard their camps and herds. During the 1930s a guard dog was required by the isolated settlements of Israel. The Canaan dog breed was the ideal choice; they were semi-wild and could survive in the harsh conditions. Today this dog is still seen guarding for the Bedouin tribes and also the Israeli army used them for guard and patrol work.

Nutrition and Feeding

Your dog's diet needs to have the right balance of all the main nutrient groups including a constant supply of fresh water. It's important to conduct regular body condition scores to ensure you keep your dog in ideal shape and remember to feed him at least twice daily and in accordance with the feeding guidelines of his particular food.

Exercise

They enjoy exercise and are very agile and athletic. They will adapt to however much exercise they are given, whether they are indoors or out but they need at least one good long run, for a minimum of an hour, every day.

Other Information

Health and common issues

 

The Canaan dog is generally a healthy breed, with few widely recognised specific breed related problems. Hip scoring and eye testing in breeding dogs in advisable to prevent problems arising in the breed.

 

Best family dog breeds

 

While many dogs are traditionally thought of as being good with children , all dogs and children need to be taught to get on with and respect each other, and be safe together. Even so, dogs and young children should never be left alone together and adults should supervise all interactions between them.

 

Cairn Terrier
Cairn Terrier
Cairn Terrier

A spirited little dog bred to root small animals, such as fox, rats and otter, from their lairs, the Cairn Terrier is known for his tenacity. A quick learner, the Cairn instinctively likes to dig and chase small animals. This terrier has a compact body and broad head with a bushy topknot and eyebrows. His shaggy, medium-long coat needs weekly brushing and some trimming or stripping, as well as monthly bathing.

DID YOU KNOW? The Cairn Terrier is named for the rock dens that foxes and badgers lived in throughout the Scottish countryside. These terriers would squeeze down the cairns and bark to alert the farmer if they found game. The best-known Cairn Terrier is “Toto” from the movie “The Wizard of Oz.” The dog’s real name was “Terry,” and though this Cairn played a male role, Terry was a female.

ALSO KNOWN AS: Short-haired Skye terriers

 

The need-to-know

 

  • Dog suitable for experienced owners
  • Some training required
  • Enjoys active walks
  • Enjoys walking an hour a day
  • Small dog
  • Minimum drool
  • Requires grooming once a week
  • Non hypoallergenic breed
  • Chatty and vocal dog
  • Guard dog. Barks and alerts
  • May require training to live with other pets
  • May require training to live with kids

 

Living Considerations
Good with older children, not hypoallergenic, suitable for apartment living if sufficiently exercised
Size
Small
Height
Males – 25 centimetres at the withers, Females – 24 centimetres at the withers
Weight
Males – 6 kilograms, Females – 5.5 kilograms
Coat
Medium-long
Energy
Medium
Colour
Any colour except white
Activities
Hunting, Earthdog Trials, Tracking, Agility, Obedience, Conformation
Indoor/Outdoor
Mostly
Personality

Cairn Terriers are a cheerful, alert, lively and extrovert breed that can be trained to happily live with children and, thanks to their history as a pack terrier, with other dogs too. Like most terriers however they may not be safe with small furry animals or strange cats. They are affectionate, bonded to their owners and enjoy being a part of everything they do.

 

History and Origins

Country of Origin:  Scotland

 

Scotland has always had a variety of vermin-killing terriers and the ancestors of the Cairn have been known in the Western Highlands since the 17th century.By 1887, the Cairn Terrier was first being mentioned as a specific breed with their job being to hunt the rodents that infested the cairns (piles of stones) that were found on the bleak game moors and that threatened the game there. They were also used in packs to rout out otters, foxes and even badgers - which they were more than happy to do despite being the smallest of the working Scottish terriers. Their thick shaggy coat that protected them from the harsh elements and their plucky nature meant that they were perfectly suited for their role. The Cairn Terrier breed has changed little over the years.

 

Nutrition and Feeding

Small dogs have a fast metabolism, meaning they burn energy at a high rate, although their small stomachs mean that they must eat little and often. Small-breed foods are specifically designed with appropriate levels of key nutrients for a balanced dog nutrition and smaller kibble sizes to suit smaller mouths. This also encourages chewing and improves digestion.

Exercise

When it comes to dog exercise, the Cairn Terrier breed is bursting with energy and must be given time to run and play, at least an hour’s walking daily ideally with lots of interesting smells. They are typical terriers and so will also need plenty of things to occupy their minds and bodies. This includes dog games, interactive toys, enrichment opportunities and, for many, a chance to dig!

Other Information

Health and common concerns

 

While the Cairn Terrier is generally a healthy breed, they can suffer from various hereditary eye disorders and so eye testing of dogs prior to breeding is therefore important. Like many small dog breeds they can also suffer from kneecaps that may temporarily slip out of place (luxating patellas). There are other issues affecting the breed, some of which have DNA tests available. The breed club monitors health closely and so should be consulted for up to date information.

 

Space requirements

 

The Cairn is a small dog and so doesn’t need a big house. They do enjoy having a garden however - and if that can include a digging pit, they will be even happier. They also love to explore the sights and sniffs of the countryside and so a rural or semi-rural home (or at least regular access to the countryside) may suit them best.

 

Training cairn terriers

 

The Cairn takes a typical terrier view of dog training but they are more biddable than many and if you can motivate them with reward-based, fun training, they can achieve a surprisingly high level and may even become experts at sports like mini-agility. As they have an instinct to hunt and chase, training a reliable recall is vitally important but even then, it is generally wise to keep them on the lead unless you are in a secure safe area.

 

Best family dog breeds

 

The Cairn Terrier can make a really fun family dog but they may not have the best patience with younger unruly children who may want to grab or chase them. While many dogs are traditionally thought of as being good with children, all dogs and children need to be taught to get on with each other and be safe together. Even so, dogs and young children should never be left alone together and adults should supervise all interactions between them.

 

Did you know?

 

Probably one of the most iconic Cairn Terrier is Toto in the film The Wizard of Oz. It may be interesting to note that if Dorothy had just kept him on a lead, she’d have had far less trouble. But then also far fewer adventures!

 

Bullmastiff
Bullmastiff
Bullmastiff

The Bullmastiff’s history began in 19th-century England where he was developed to keep large estates and game preserves free of poachers. Fearless and confident yet sweet-natured and docile, the breed makes a great family companion. Natural guardians, Bullmastiffs do not bark much and require minimal exercise and grooming. For a large dog, the Bullmastiff does well in an apartment as well as a house.

DID YOU KNOW? A Bullmastiff called “Mac” starred in a Honda Odyssey Super Bowl commercial in 1999.

 

The need-to-know

 

  • Dog suitable for experienced owners
  • Extra training required
  • Enjoys active walks
  • Enjoys walking an hour a day
  • Large dog
  • Minimum drool
  • Requires grooming once a week
  • Non hypoallergenic breed
  • Quiet dog
  • Guard dog. Barks, alerts and it's physically protective
  • May require training to live with other pets
  • May require training to live with kids
Living Considerations
Good with children, not hypoallergenic, suitable for apartment living
Size
Large/Giant
Height
Males - 63.5 to 69 centimetres at the withers, Females - 61 to 66 centimetres at the withers
Weight
Males - 50 to 59 kilograms, Females - 45 to 54 kilograms
Coat
Short
Energy
Low
Colour
Red, fawn, or brindle
Activities
Agility, Conformation, Obedience, Rally Obedience, Tracking
Indoor/Outdoor
Both
Personality

These dogs are very protective of their family and other household pets, and so have to be socialised from an early age. The Bullmastiff will only accept strangers if they are introduced to them by someone they trust. Other visitors/strangers will be quickly halted in their tracks. It is not really a breed for the novice owner, due to its strength, stubbornness and over-protective nature.

 

History and Origins

The Bullmastiff dog breed was originally called the 'Gamekeeper's Night Dog' as they were used to catch poachers. The base stock of the Bullmastiff was 60% English Mastiff and 40% Bulldog. They were created in the late 1800s. When the need for gamekeepers and the Bullmastiff declined they were used in sport. Someone would run off into the undergrowth and, after a short time, a muzzled Bullmastiff would be released to see if the person could be found. They were not trained to maul or kill, but to overpower their target.

Nutrition and Feeding

Large breed dogs, as well as having large appetites, benefit from a different balance of nutrients including minerals and vitamins compared to smaller-breed dogs. The Bullmastiff is prone to bloating and stomach problems; smaller, more frequent meals can help minimise this risk.

Exercise

This dog should be carefully controlled until at least 12 months old. Too much exercise too young can lead to bone and joint problems in later life. They do enjoy exercise and games with the family, and a couple of hours of exercise daily will keep an adult Bullmastiff content.

Other Information

Health and common issues

 

As with many breeds, Bullmastiffs can suffer from various hereditary eye disorders, and hip and elbow dysplasia (joint conditions that can be painful and lead to mobility problems). Eye testing and hip scoring of dogs prior to breeding is therefore important. They are also prone to a particular bladder condition and ligament problems in the knee (cruciate disease).

 

Best family dog breeds

 

While many dogs are traditionally thought of as being good with children , all dogs and children need to be taught to get on with and respect each other, and be safe together. Even so, dogs and young children should never be left alone together and adults should supervise all interactions between them.

 

Dog