Machine Name
dog

Irish Terrier

Originally bred to kill vermin on farms, the Irish Terrier is distinguished by his solid red, dense, low-shedding coat and long, tall body. Courageous, loyal and lively, this breed is affectionate with his human companions but aggressive toward other dogs. The athletic Irish Terrier requires regular exercise in a fenced yard and several leashed walks per day.

DID YOU KNOW? One of the oldest terrier breeds, the Irish Terrier is a descendant of the ancient wirehaired black-and-tan terrier of Great Britain and the Irish Wolfhound. The Irish Terrier was recognized as a separate breed in 1875 in Glasgow, Scotland. The Irish Terrier was used as a messenger and sentinel during World War I.

ALSO KNOWN AS: Irish Red Terrier

 

The need-to-know

 

  • Dog suitable for owners with some experience
  • Some training requiredEnjoys active walks
  • Enjoys walking an hour a day
  • Medium dog
  • Minimum drool
  • Requires grooming every other day
  • 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
Life Span:
13-15 years
Weight:
11-12kg
Height:
Males are 48cm tall and females 46cm
Colours:
Red, red/wheaten or yellow/red
Size:
Medium
Kennel Club group:
Terrier
Personality

Despite their nickname - the ‘Red Devil’ - the Irish Terrier is a good-tempered, fun and devoted companion who are affectionate and highly bonded to their owners. They can however also be reckless and mischievous, are totally fearless, and have a reputation for being feisty with other dogs on occasion and may not be safe with cats or small furries.

History and Origins

Country of Origin: Ireland

 

The Irish Terrier is the oldest of the four Irish terrier breeds and was used as a watchdog and for pest control in the Cork area. They would happily take on everything from rats to badgers. They appealed to all walks of life and were kept by both commoners and nobility. Once known as the Irish Red Terrier, to avoid confusion between other Irish terrier breeds, this dog was also known as the Red Devil and was used as a messenger dog in the First World War where their bravery and tenacity became legendary. The breed’s exact origins are not known, but probably developed from the old black and tan terrier crossed with other local dogs.

Nutrition and Feeding

The Irish Terrier needs to have a balanced diet including all the main nutrient groups and a constant supply of fresh water. It's also 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

Irish Terriers need at least an hour of dog exercise each day - along with plenty of games with their owner and enrichment toys (which should ideally include a chance to dig and some scent work). This is a breed that needs to be able to explore the sights and scents of the countryside but as they may not always be good with unknown dogs, it is good to have access to open, dog-free areas where they can be let off the lead.

Other Information

Health and Common Concerns

 

Irish Terrier dogs are generally robust, healthy dogs. They do have a recognised hereditary condition called hyperkeratosis, where the footpads crack, however careful breeding means that this is now rare.

 

Space Requirements

 

The Irish Terrier is a dog who can live in a small home and garden as long as they have access to good rural or open areas for exercise.

 

Training Irish Terriers

 

When it comes to dog training, the Irish Terrier is a clever dog who enjoys working with their owners and can be trained to quite a high standard - as long as they can be kept motivated and enthused using positive, reward-based methods. Dog socialisation should be early and ongoing to overcome any argumentativeness with other dogs, and a good recall should be prioritised. Neither of these should entirely be relied upon in the great outdoors however!

 

Best Family Dog Breeds

 

Like many terrier dog breeds, the Irish Terrier can lack patience with children - especially if overhandled or grabbed. They can however make good family dog where there are older, dog-aware 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 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 bravery and tenacity of the Irish Terrier is legendary - and hunters in Africa were known to take Irish Terriers out lion hunting with them!

Irish Setter

An aristocratic bird dog known for his style, powerful movement and clown-like personality, the Irish Setter became popular in the 18th century throughout Ireland and the British Isles. This merry, friendly breed has a stable, outgoing temperament, making him a great family companion. The Irish Setter requires regular exercise, and his long, glossy, red coat must be groomed regularly.

DID YOU KNOW? The famed “Dog Whisperer” Cesar Millan’s first pet was an Irish Setter named “Saluki.”

ALSO KNOWN AS: Red Setter, Irish Red Setter

 

The need-to-know

 

  • Dog suitable for non-experienced owners
  • Some training required
  • Enjoys vigorous walks
  • Enjoys walking more than two hours a day
  • Large dog
  • Some drool
  • Requires grooming every other day
  • Non hypoallergenic breed
  • Quiet dog
  • Not a guard dog
  • May require training to live with other pets
  • Great family dog
Life Span:
12-15 years
Weight:
30.5kg for males and 26kg for females
Height:
Adult males measure 65cm and females measure 61cm
Colours:
Chestnut and mahogany
Size:
Large
Kennel Club group:
Gundog
Personality

The well-bred, well-socialised and well-trained Irish Setter is extraordinarily sweet and makes an affectionate, loyal family pet. Early exposure to cats and careful supervision is essential if they are to share a home with them - and they may not be safe with strange cats or any small furry animals.

 

Being terribly friendly, this is not a good guard dog, though he will announce the presence of a visitor. The Irish Setter remains playful throughout his life - one of his more endearing traits. They are often thought of as being a bit ditzy and brainless - or even highly strung - but this is generally because people buy them for their glamour and underestimate how much exercise and input this working dog needs to stay healthy and happy.

History and Origins

Country of Origin: Ireland

 

The setter group are dogs who hunt game birds silently and largely by scent, then when they locate them, ‘set’ (crouch or lie down) rather than flush or chase.

 

The Irish Setter is the oldest of the setter group, preceding both the Gordon and English Setters. It is believed the breed developed from old spaniels and indeed the breed was originally called the Red Spaniel. While the breed was developed as a setter for netting birds, it later became a more general gundog and could be trained as a pointer as well. Their eye-catching colour led them effortlessly into the show ring where the breed was further glamourised by adding influences from breeds such as the Borzoi. Despite that, they remained an efficient and energetic hunting dog - a perfect mix of beauty and brains.

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. Irish Setters need to have a balanced diet including the main nutrient groups and a constant supply of fresh water. They are prone to bloating and stomach problems; smaller, more frequent meals can help minimise this risk.

Exercise

The Irish Setter was bred to work all day every day and is very active so needs a lot of dog exercise – two-plus hours daily for an adult. This needs to include free-running and the opportunity to sniff and explore. Not a dog for couch potatoes.

Other Information

Health and Common Concerns

 

As with many breeds, the Irish Setter dog can suffer from various hereditary eye disorders, and hip dysplasia (a condition that can lead to mobility problems). Eye testing and hip scoring of dogs prior to breeding is therefore important. They can also be prone to gastrointestinal disorders. In the 1940s the breed was nearly decimated by the eye disease progressive retinal atrophy, better known as PRA. Due to the development of a DNA test to identify carriers, the breed has recovered and the incidence of PRA has dropped dramatically.

 

Space Requirements

 

This is a large, country dog and so really needs both indoor and outdoor space - as well as access to the countryside.

 

Training Irish Setters

 

This is a dog who loves working with their owner and with positive reward-based training can be extremely obedient. Irish Setters are however still hunters at heart and are easily distracted so recall can be an issue if they get distracted by scents, sights - or something to chase. Pet gun dog classes or scentwork classes can be invaluable to help give them an outlet for their hardwired behaviours.

 

Best Family Dog Breeds

 

The Irish Setter can make the perfect family dog as they love everyone of all ages. They may be too bouncy for very small children but for an active family, they are hard to beat. 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?

 

  • The Irish Setter is also often called the Red Setter (or Madra rua – which means red dog in Gaelic) because of his stunning coat. It is said that the same gene that makes the Irish Setter red is the same one that is found in Irish and Scottish people to give so many of them ginger hair and freckles!
  • Two Irish Setters have found their way into the White House – one called Mike owned by Harry Truman, and the other called King Timahoe owned by Richard Nixon. Despite having such a royal name, King Timahoe disgraced himself by shredding a carpet in the Oval Office!

Irish Red and White Setter

This strong, intelligent dog is not just a different coloured version of the Irish Setter, but a distinct breed. The Irish Red and White Setter’s keen nose and ability to handle a variety of terrain and weather conditions make him an excellent hunter. Known for his endurance in the field, the high-energy Irish Red and White Setter needs ample exercise. Having a calm, friendly temperament, this breed is a good family companion. Weekly brushing is recommended along with routinely checking for burrs and matting in his feathered coat.

DID YOU KNOW? The Irish Red and White Setter, which dates back to the 17th century, is believed to be older than the Irish Setter.

 

The need-to-know

 

  • Dog suitable for non-experienced owners
  • Some training required
  • Enjoys vigorous walks
  • Enjoys walking more than two hours a day
  • Large dog
  • Some drool
  • Requires grooming every other day
  • Non hypoallergenic breed
  • Chatty and vocal dog
  • Not a guard dog
  • Great with other pets
  • Great family dog
Living Considerations
Good with children, not hypoallergenic, suitable for apartment living if adequately exercised
Size
Large
Height
62 to 66 centimetres for males, 57 to 61 centimetres for females
Weight
22.5 to 34 kilograms
Coat
Medium/Long - Feathered
Energy
Active
Colour
Mahogany or rich chestnut red
Activities
Hunting, tracking, retrieving, agility, obedience, conformation
Indoor/Outdoor
Both
Personality

A gentle, biddable, good-natured dog, the Irish Red and White Setter makes a happy, affectionate companion and is an enthusiastic worker too. As he is energetic, he does need an active owner to attend to his exercise needs.

History and Origins

Closely related to the Irish (Red) Setter, the Irish Red and White Setter dog breed can be traced back to the 18th century, though it could well have existed before that time, as red and white hunting dogs are described in texts dating back to the 1500s. Setters were popular sporting dogs with the landed gentry in the 17th and 18th centuries, and most were red with white, but towards the end of the 19th century, an entirely red coat was favoured and the Red and White was in danger of dying out. Fortunately enough survived for dedicated breeders to revive the breed after the First World War.

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

An energetic, active dog, the Irish Red and White Setter needs two hours or more of daily exercise, to include free-running.

Other Information

Health and Common Issues

 

As with many breeds, the Irish Red and White Setter can suffer from various hereditary eye disorders, and hip dysplasia (a condition that can lead to mobility problems). Eye testing and hip scoring of dogs prior to breeding is therefore important. They can also be prone to gastrointestinal disorders.

 

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.

Ibizan Hound (Short/smooth coat)

Characterized by his tall, lean body, long tail and large, upright ears, the Ibizan Hound is an elegant Egyptian sighthound bred to hunt rabbits. This athletic, agile breed is known for his ability to jump six feet in the air from a standstill. Alert, affectionate and loyal, the Ibizan Hound is suitable for families with children. These hounds require vigorous daily exercise in a sizeable high-fenced area.

DID YOU KNOW? In 1922, historians discovered King Tut’s tomb and found the life-size statue of Anubis, who was known as the “Watchdog of the Dead.” The statue was identical to the modern Ibizan Hound. The Ibizan Hound is named for the Spanish island of Ibiza, where the breed was brought over by Phoenician sea traders in 3400 B.C. to hunt rabbits for food

ALSO KNOWN AS: Ca Eivissenc, Podenco Ibicenco, Ibizan Warren Hound

 

The need-to-know

 

  • Dog suitable for owners with some experience
  • Some 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
  • Not a guard dog
  • May require training to live with other pets
  • May require training to live with kids
Living Considerations
Suitable for children, not hypoallergenic, suitable for apartment living
Size
Medium
Height
Males – 60 to 70 centimetres at the withers, Females – 57 to 66 centimetres at the withers
Weight
Males – 22.5 kilograms, Females – 20.5 kilograms
Coat
Short or wirehaired
Energy
High
Colour
White or red (solid or a combination)Activities
Indoor/Outdoor
Indoor
Personality

This is a very affectionate, sensitive breed. They are wonderfully loyal and make a good pet in the right home. However, this is not a breed for the fainthearted: they can be fairly vocal and adore company – this is not a breed that can be left for long hours.

History and Origins

This breed is truly a living piece of history. The Ibizan Hound dog breed can trace its roots back to 4,000BC and beyond. Mostly associated with the time of the Great Pharaohs, the breed is depicted on many friezes, with the most notable icon being the Anubis. It would be true to say that the breed has not really changed in many thousands of years. Phoenician traders took the Ibizan Hound to the Balearic Islands, and to this day they can be found still working in Spain and its surrounding islands.

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

These dogs require lots of exercise – a couple of hours daily for adults. Once on the scent of game, they will run and run, so a reliable recall is essential and they should be exercised in safe areas with no traffic risks or other dangers.

Other Information

Health and Common Issues

 

The Ibizan Hound dog breed is generally hardy with few widely recognised health problems. Some neurological conditions are reported but do not appear to be common.

 

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.

Hungarian Wire Haired Vizsla

The Wire Haired Vizsla a medium-sized, active dog with a harsh, wiry coat that is a golden sand to russet colour. They have a distinctive moustache and hairy eyebrows. They have a noble and graceful appearance and give the impression of great stamina. Adult dogs stand at approximately 58-62cm and adult females 54-58cm. They weigh 20-30kg.

 

The need-to-know

 

  • Dog suitable for owners with some experience
  • Some training required
  • Enjoys vigorous walks
  • Enjoys walking more than two hours a day
  • Large dog
  • Some drool
  • Requires grooming once a week
  • Non hypoallergenic breed
  • Quiet dog
  • Not a guard dog
  • May require training to live with other pets
  • Great family dog
Personality

The Hunagarian Wire Haired Vizsla enjoys being outdoor and is ideally suited to a country-dwelling family. They are very affectionate and loyal and naturally protective of thier loved ones. They will happily be both family and working dogs in one. They are quick to learn and eager to please, but are very sensitive, so it's especially important that training is fun and gentle.

History and Origins

Prints dating back 1,000 years show Magyar hunters (early settlers in Hungary) with dogs and falcons. These dogs were very similar to the Wire Haired Vizsla dog breed of today. When the Magyars went to other countries they took their dogs with them, which led to crosses with other breeds, but it was almost wiped out by the two World Wars. The breed only exists today because some were smuggled out during this time. Recent selective breeding developed the Vizsla dog breed as an all-round hunter, pointer and retriever. The wire-haired variety was developed in the 1930s and is becoming more popular with hunters, as it can withstand the colder climates and cold water better than the short-haired variety.

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

The Wire Haired Vizsla requires plenty of exercise and needs to be kept active; an adult dog needs two-plus hours of exercise daily. As you'd expect, given his HPR background, retrieve games (on land and in water) are popular with him, though he will take to most canine pursuits – such as agility – with enthusiasm.

Other Information

Health and Common Issues

 

The Hungarian Wire Haired Vizsla is a relatively healthy breed, with few widely recognised 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.

Hungarian Vizsla

A robust, noble-looking, medium-sized dog. Known for their affectionate natures and high energy levels, Hungarian Vizslas make perfect dogs for active families.

 

The need-to-know

 

  • Dog suitable for owners with some experience
  • Some training required
  • Enjoys vigorous walks
  • Enjoys walking more than two hours a day
  • Large dog
  • Some drool
  • Requires grooming once a week
  • Non hypoallergenic breed
  • Quiet dog
  • Not a guard dog
  • May require training to live with other pets
  • May require training to live with kids
Lifespan:
10–14 years
Weight:
20–30kg
Height:
53–64cm
Colours:
The short, dense coat is smooth and comes in an eye-catching reddish-gold colour
Size:
Medium
Kennel Club group:
Gundog
Personality

A larger-than-life character, the Hungarian Vizsla makes a fun, lively, loving companion for those who can give him the time and attention he needs. A sensitive dog, they enjoy being active and learning new things and revel in training, provided it is fun and rewarding. They can be naturally protective of their family and as they bond so closely to their beloved owner, they hate to be left alone.

History and Origins

Country of Origin: Hungary

 

There is no doubt this is an old breed - but just how old has been the subject of many arguments. They are in size and shape very similar to the Weimaraner but with different colouring - and some say that the Vizsla was a cross between the Weimaraner and various pointers as recently as the 20th century. Hungarian breeders however maintain that it is the other way round and that there are records of Vizslas dating from the 11th and 12th century when they would hunt with Magyars and their falcons. In all likelihood this is the correct version of events and the Vizsla has been helping Hungarian hunters for hundreds of years - although when the breed struggled to survive in the early part of the 20th century, pointers were introduced to strengthen the stock and ensure their survival.

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 also 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 Hungarian Vizsla needs at least two hours of active daily exercise a day. As you'd expect, given their hunt, point and retrieve background, retrieve games (on land and in water) are popular with them, and they do need plenty of off-lead free running and exploring.

Other Information

Health and Common Issues

 

The Hungarian Vizsla is generally a healthy breed. The most common breed specific problems are a swallowing disorder and epilepsy.

 

Space Requirements

 

Like most gundogs, Hungarian Vizslas do not do well in urban environments. They are large, active, country dogs that need space both inside and out.

 

Training Hungarian Vizslas

 

Hungarian Vizlas enjoy working with their owners and will enjoy training as long as it is fun and rewarding. They can reach a high standard of obedience and can happily compete in dog sports such as agility - but will sometimes have unexpected moments of apparent deafness when something exciting like a squirrel catches their eye! As such, training a good recall is important.

 

Best Family Dog Breeds

 

Hungarian Vizslas can make great dogs for active families with older children who love the great outdoors and plenty of walking. 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?

 

  • Known as dogs who originally hunted alongside falcons, it is said that they still have a natural affinity for birds of prey.
  • Hungarian Vizslas are known to be very clingy dogs and will follow their owner absolutely everywhere.
  • They’re one of the top 10 fastest dog breeds and can run up to 40mph.
  • Vizslas are incredible swimmers and have webbed feet! They don’t have an undercoat though so make sure you don’t take them swimming when it’s cold.
  • Vizsla means ‘pointer’ but in Hungarian it also means ‘beagle’, ‘retriever’ and ‘deerhound’.

Hungarian Puli

The Puli dog is easily recognised by his trademark coat - long cords, sometimes reaching the ground in length. They can be black, rusty black, white or various shades of apricot and grey in colour. Beneath the coat, this is a sturdy and muscular breed. Adult stand at 40-44cm and weigh 13-15kg; adult females are 37-41cm and weigh 10-13kg.

 

The need-to-know

 

  • Dog suitable for experienced owners
  • Some training required
  • Enjoys active walks
  • Enjoys walking an hour a day
  • Medium dog
  • Minimum drool
  • Requires grooming every other day
  • 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
Personality

Lively and animated, Pulis have a tendency to bond with one member of the family. They are friendly, although they will announce visitors at the door and be somewhat reserved with them. They can be stubborn but are quick to learn in training.

History and Origins

The Magyars, one of the many tribes of nomadic Huns that migrated to Eastern Europe, brought Pulis to their native land in the 9th century. These dogs were used to herd and protect their flocks. Over the years they were bred for their ability to work and soon became established in other countries. Today the puli dog breed has adapted to town living as well as working and living in the countryside.

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

Energetic by nature, the Puli breed needs a reasonable amount of exercise – at least an hour a day for an adult, preferably more - and they are in their element if given free-running time to romp and play.

Other Information

Health and Common Issues

 

The Hungarian Puli is a relatively healthy, hardy breed. However as with many breeds they can suffer from hereditary eye disorders and hip dysplasia (a condition that can lead to mobility problems). Eye testing and hip scoring of dogs prior to breeding is therefore 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.

Hungarian Kuvasz

This is a large, powerful, noble-looking breed. Adult males are 71-75cm in height and weigh 40-52kg and adult females are 66-70cm tall and weigh 30-42kg. The thick double coat is pure white and the skin has patches of grey.

 

The need-to-know

 

  • Dog suitable for experienced owners
  • Extra training required
  • Enjoys active walks
  • Enjoys walking one to two hours a day
  • Large dog
  • Heavy drool
  • Requires grooming every other day
  • Non hypoallergenic breed
  • Chatty and vocal 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
Personality

Bred as a guarding breed for centuries, the Kuvasz is naturally protective of his home and loved ones and is suspicious of strangers. He is gentle and loyal to his family but needs a home where the owners are experienced with guarding breeds and where his specialist needs can be met.

History and Origins

The Hungarian Kuvasz dog breed is an ancient breed. Indeed, archaeologists have found the skeleton of a similar type of dog in Hungary dating back to the 9th century. Used by the nomadic Magyar to protect their flocks, the Kuvasz worked in sometimes harsh conditions, in the mountain regions of the country. In the 15th century, the breed became fashionable among the nobility, due to its popularity with King Matthias Corvinus, who gave Kuvasz pups as royal gifts, but the breed's chief role, throughout its history, has been as a hardworking flock guard.

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 Kuvasz is prone to bloating and stomach problems; smaller, more frequent meals can help minimise this risk.

Exercise

The Kuvasz enjoys nothing better than patrolling his property's boundaries and being alert to any 'threats'. He needs a very large, well-fenced garden, and will also need to be taken out for an hour's daily exercise, too.

Other Information

Health and Common Issues

 

The Kuvasz dog breed is generally a healthy and robust breed, but as with many breeds, they can suffer from various hereditary eye disorders, and hip dysplasia (a condition that can lead to mobility problems). Eye testing and hip scoring of dogs prior to breeding is therefore 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.

Hovawart

A large, powerful dog with a medium/long coat, the Hovawart is a little longer that he is tall. Dogs are noticeably masculine and females feminine. Adult males stand at 63-70cm and weigh 30-40kg and females are 58-65cm tall and weigh 25-35kg. The weather-resistant coat comes in black, blonde or black and gold.

 

The need-to-know

 

  • Dog suitable for experienced owners
  • Some training required
  • Enjoys active walks
  • Enjoys walking one to two hours a day
  • Large dog
  • Some drool
  • Requires grooming every other day
  • Non hypoallergenic breed
  • Chatty and vocal 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
Personality

A confident, brave and versatile dog, the Hovawart is a loyal, devoted companion dog. He has strong guarding tendencies and is protective of his home and family, so early socialisation is essential, but he is generally a tolerant, even-tempered character.

History and Origins

This German breed was bred to guard livestock, farms and even castles in the Middle Ages. Sadly, the Hovawart dog breed died out but was recreated by a zoologist called Dr Konig after World War One. He found Hovawart-like dogs in the Harz and Black Forest areas where the breed was originally found and bred them to the German Shepherd, the Hungarian Kuvasz, Newfoundland, Leonberger and other similar breeds, until the breed matched that found in old drawings.

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

A large, energetic dog, the Hovawart needs two hours or more of daily exercise. He enjoys long walks and tracking, and can also be trained to high levels in obedience and working trials.

Other Information

Health and Common Issues

 

As with many breeds, the Hovawart can suffer from hip dysplasia (a condition that can lead to mobility problems). Hip scoring of dogs prior to breeding is therefore important. An underactive thyroid gland (hypothyroidism) occurs more commonly 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.

Havanese (Havanese Cuban Bichon)

The only native breed of Cuba, the Havanese is a happy,outgoing dog with a friendly disposition. Originally, this sturdy toy breed was a pampered lap dog of the aristocracy. Later, his role evolved into that of a family companion, watchdog, child’s playmate, and poultry herder. With his intelligence, trainability and affectionate, nonaggressive temperament, the Havanese is an ideal family dog. The breed’s hypoallergenic coat does not shed but requires regular grooming.

DID YOU KNOW? The Havanese is the national dog of Cuba.

ALSO KNOWN AS: Havanese Cuban Bichon, Youcef Sorry, Bichon Havanês, Havaneser, Havanezer, Bichon Habanero

 

The need-to-know

 

  • Dog suitable for non-experienced owners
  • Basic training required
  • Enjoys gentle walks
  • Enjoys walking half an hour a day
  • Little toy dog
  • Minimum drool
  • Requires grooming daily
  • Hypoallergenic breed
  • Chatty and vocal dog
  • Guard dog. Barks and alerts
  • Great with other pets
  • Great family dog
Lifespan:
13-15 years
Weight:
3-6kg
Height:
23-28cm tall
Colours:
Any colour or combination of colours is accepted, except merles
Size:
Small
UK Kennel Club Groups:
Toy
Personality

The Havanese is an affectionate, intelligent little dog, ideally suited to the role of family companion. They are described as friendly and outgoing, with a cheerful nature and attractive appearance.

History and Origins

Country of Origin: Cuba

 

The Havanese is a member of the Bichon family, which includes the Bichon Frise, Bolognese, Coton De Tulear, Lowchen and Maltese.

 

Their ancestors from the Mediterranean area accompanied traders across the globe and were sold and gifted to those who valued small, luxuriously coated, companion dogs as a symbol of wealth and status. Such was true of the Havanese who was very popular in Cuba with high-status families, right up until Castro’s Communist regime in 1959 when such trappings of wealth of any kind fell out of favour.

 

Saved by the efforts of Cuban refugees living in the US, American breeders founded the Havanese Club of America to protect the future of the breed.

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. Discover more about how to offer your dog a balanced diet with our easy-to-follow guide.

Exercise

The Havanese will need about half an hour of dog exercise daily, and whilst that can be provided on occasion with games and training indoors and in the garden, a variety of interesting daily walks will satisfy the mind as well as the body. A companion breed, the Havanese will enjoy spending time with their owner no matter what they are doing, or where they are going.

Other Information

Health and Common Issues

 

Like many small breeds, the Havenese can suffer from kneecaps that may temporarily slip out of place (luxating patellas). As with many breeds there are some hereditary eye problems that can arise and so breeding dogs should be regularly eye tested.

 

Space Requirements

 

As long as you have space to groom a Havanese, and a garden to play and train in safely, they do not need a huge or expansive home. Access to a variety of interesting walks will make keeping a Havanese happy and fulfilled relatively easy. Suitable for all locations.

 

Training Havanese

 

The Havanese is small, but mighty – perfectly capable of high levels of dog training and taking part in a variety of dog sports and competitions! Exercise their minds as well as their brains for a happy, satisfied Havanese. They will do well in mini agility, trick training competitions, heelwork to music, anything you can think of really. This is a lapdog with ambition and ability to do much much more. This, however, is breed that does not like to be left alone.

 

Best Family Dog Breeds

 

The Havanese is an excellent family dog – as long as their appealing looks do not lead to them being thought of as a ‘toy’ or plaything. Also ensure that you have the time to attend to their exercise, training and grooming needs alongside family commitments. Older children and teenagers may enjoy taking part in walking and training the Havanese and their cheerful nature makes them an excellent friend. 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?

 

  • Havanese have long been popular with the rich and famous, from Queen Victoria and Charles Dickens, to Venus Williams, Susan Sarandon, Jane Fonda and Jennifer Love Hewitt. The popularity of this still relatively rare breed cannot be called a modern trend!
Dog