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Dachshund (Miniature Smooth Haired)

This is a long-backed, short-legged dog of diminutive height that everybody recognises. While small, the Miniature Smooth-Haired Dachshund breed is still muscular and powerfully built with a deep, broad chest and well-developed forelegs. They have a short, dense, smooth coat that comes in a range of colours.

 

The need-to-know

 

  • Dog suitable for owners with some experience
  • Some 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
  • May require training to live with other pets
  • May require training to live with kids
Lifespan:
12–15 years
Weight:
4.5–5kg
Height:
12–15cm
Colours:
Miniature Dachshunds can either be solid colours such as red or cream or two-coloured such as black, chocolate, grizzled, blue or fawn with tan or cream markings. Some may be dappled too
Size:
Small
Kennel Club group:
Hound
Personality

This dog can be very independent and needs kind, consistent, patient training. Early socialisation is required in order to acclimate Miniature Smooth Haired Dachshunds to children, strangers and other animals. They are a breed that becomes quite attached to their family and usually one family member in particular, but they can be reserved with strangers.

 

The Dachshund will suit an owner who may not have much space but wants a strong-minded, determined, one-person dog who will go everywhere with them - as the Dachshund does not like being left.

History and Origins

Dachshunds can be traced back to 15th century Germany. However, Dachshund-type dogs have appeared in ancient Egyptian and Mexican art, and remains of a similar dog were found with shipwreck remnants in Italy, dating back to the 1st century AD. The German breed standard was set in 1879 and the breed club established in 1888. Dachshunds were exported to Great Britain with Prince Albert and became popular in Britain and America throughout the 19th century. Miniature Dachshunds were used in lieu of ferrets to hunt rabbits out of their warrens.

Nutrition and Feeding

Toy-sized 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

This dog needs a minimum of half an hour's daily exercise. Before letting them off-lead, do ensure their recall is reliable, as their hunting instincts can drive them to run off in pursuit of a scent or quarry. Bear in mind that Dachshunds were bred to 'go to ground' and can dig under many types of fencing, so check your garden's security.

Other Information

Health and Common Issues

 

The most common health problem seen in the Miniature Smooth Haired Dachshund is related to their body shape, making them prone to spinal disorders. Heart disease is also relatively common in the breed. As with many other breeds, various inherited eye disorders can be seen, and breeding dogs should be routinely eye tested.

 

Space Requirements

 

The Miniature Dachshund doesn’t need much space but needs access to the outdoors for exercise and toileting and they do enjoy a small garden. Their shape means that they do better in a bungalow or single-story flat as stairs can be an issue.

 

Training Miniature Dachshunds

 

Dachshunds are not the greatest pupils but should be taught basic life skills including how to walk on a harness and lead. Socialisation with other people is important as they can be reserved to the point of unfriendly with strangers.

 

Best Family Dog Breeds

 

The Miniature Dachshund doesn’t make a good family dog especially with young children as they’re prone to injury, sometimes short-tempered, and don’t enjoy boisterous games. They generally bond closely to one person rather than to a family. 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?

 

  • A translation error is why this breed appears in the hound group and not the terrier group! Its German name means Badger Dog, but back in 1874 when the breed was entered in the English stud book, authors wrongly translated the German ‘hund’ as ‘hound’ rather than as ‘dog’.
  • The Miniature Dachshund is one of the most long-lived of all dog breeds.
  • Journalist H. L. Mencken said that the Dachshund is “half a dog high and a dog and a half long”.
  • The Dachshund has many nicknames including sausage dog, hot dog, wiener dog, doxie and dashie.
  • Dachshunds are big barkers which can be traced back to their hunting days when they’d trap prey underground and then call for the hunters to come and locate them. It’s likely you’ll have to train them how to stop so they don’t become a nuisance!

Dachshund (Miniature Long-Haired)

Long-backed and short-legged, the Miniature Long Haired Dachshund is possibly the most glamorous of the Mini Dachshund types, with a shining, silky coat that is straight or with a slight wave. The coat forms feathering on the ears, legs, and undercarriage and the tail should sport a silky flag of hair. The coat comes in a variety of colours, see the breed standard for more details. Although small, the Mini Long Haired Dachshund is still a powerful and muscular dog with a deep, broad chest and well-developed forelegs, with adults standing at 12-15cm in height and weighing 4.5-5kg.

Kennel Club group – Hound

 

The need-to-know

 

  • Dog suitable for owners with some experience
  • Some training required
  • Enjoys gentle walks
  • Enjoys walking half 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
Lifespan:
12 – 15 years
Weight:
4.5 – 5kg
Height:
12 – 15cm
Colours:
Miniature Dachshunds can either be solid colours such as red or cream or two-coloured such as black, chocolate, grizzled, blue or fawn with tan or cream markings. Some may be dappled too
Size:
Small
UK Kennel Club Groups:
Hound
Personality

Do not underestimate the Mini Long Haired Dachshund as while they are small in size they are giant in personality. This is a strong-minded and independent little dog whose natural inclination is to take on the world, and they are totally confident they will win! Clever and quick to learn, but not easy to motivate, the Mini Long Haired Dachshund requires a patient owner with a sense of humour and the time to dedicate to good socialisation and on-going training, entertainment and activity. Not inclined to warm to strangers quickly, they do adore their owners and family, though are likely to bond more strongly with just one person.

 

History and Origins

Country of Origin – Germany

 

The Long Haired Miniature Dachshund’s origins lie in 15th Century Germany, as a dog bred to go to ground after badgers, and their place in the Hound group is something of a translation error (‘hund’ meaning ‘dog’ and not ‘hound’). As an earth-dog, designed to go down holes and hold quarry at bay until hunters could dig to them, they are really a terrier with all the feist and spirit one would associate with terrier types.

 

The standard sized Dachshund is recorded as early as 1735 but was probably around for longer than that, and at certain times in their history were crossed with working French Basset types (bred to be long and low so they could be followed on foot rather than on horseback). It was normal to work hounds alongside terriers so it is easy to see how this cross came about.

 

Once in England and finding favour with royalty (Queen Victoria owned several), the breed became longer, lower and more refined. When the need arose for a smaller dog to go to ground after rabbits rather than the larger badger, Dachshunds were selectively bred down to reduce height and chest size. The first Miniature Long Haired Dachshunds appeared in the UK in the 1930’s where the Long Haired version became the most popular of the three very quickly.

Nutrition and Feeding

Toy-sized 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 Mini Long Haired Dachshund will enjoy half an hour to an hour of slow exercise per day, with games, training and fun activities on top. A happy and fulfilled Mini Long Haired Dachshund will then be happy to warm your lap or feet, but a bored, lonely or under-amused dog will be unhappy, noisy and difficult to live with.

 

A variety of interesting walking routes is a must, with secure places for off lead fun – remember this is a hunting dog with all the same instincts of their larger relatives, including the desire to go down holes and see who is at home! A secure garden and training a strong and reliable recall is vital! They should however always be exercised with caution as their shape will prohibit jumping, stairs or sharp twists and turns for fear of injury.

Other Information

Health and Common Issues

 

The most common health problem seen in the Dachshund is related to their body shape, making them prone to spinal disorders. Heart disease is also relatively common in the breed. As with many other breeds, various inherited eye disorders can be seen, and breeding dogs should be routinely eye-tested. Contact the breed club or the Kennel Club for up to date health information.

 

Space Requirements

 

Not demanding on space, the Mini Long Haired Dachshunds needs can be met in town, city or country homes. A secure garden is vital as they are able to squeeze through very small spaces and are skilled diggers. Beware long flights of stairs as their backs are a weak point, and although they are small enough to be lifted and carried, this is also not good for their backs. Better suited for single storey living in bungalows or flats.

 

Training Long-Haired Dachshunds

 

With patience and kindness the Mini Long Haired Dachshund can be trained to a good level of obedience, but early socialisation with other people, children, pets and livestock is important. A good recall, ‘leave it’ and a ‘shush’ or quiet cue will keep them pleasant to live with and safe to let off lead but these are likely to be on-going training requirements for life, rather than something you teach as a puppy and consider ‘done’ thereafter! Although independent minded, the clever Mini Long Haired Dachshund will enjoy fun training of suitable tricks and doggy activities such as man-trailing, Rally or Hoopers, if you want to put in the work.

 

Best Family Dog Breeds

 

This isn’t an ideal for the busy family or those with young children, or even those with older children who have frequent young visitors as the Mini Long Haired Dachshund would prefer a quieter home with fewer comings and goings and owners dedicated to them. They are rather delicate with their long backs and very easy to trip over, so take this into consideration as well. 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?

 

Whilst it is difficult to be precise as many sources list both Miniature and standard dachshunds as simply ‘Dachshunds’ its probable that David Hasselhoff, Christian Slater and George Harrison among other celebrities, all owned Miniature Long Haired Dachshunds. Dachshunds of all types have been popular with both celebrities and royalty for many decades!

Dachshund (Long-Haired)

The Dachshund (Long-Haired) is a medium breed dog on short legs, standing around 35cm tall and about 9-12kg when fully grown. The coat should be soft, straight or only slightly waved, forming attractive feathering on the backs of legs, ears and tail.

 

A wide variety of colours occur but not all are accepted for health reasons – check the breed standard for further details.

 

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
Personality

The Dachshund (Long Haired) is a bold, courageous dog with a lively personality and nature. Said to be calmer than either the Smooth or the Wire haired varieties, the Long Haired Dachshund still retains the independent and sometimes seemingly obstinate nature of the breed, but is also known for being loyal and good-tempered. They are excellent at tracking a scent outdoors, but equally make an affectionate, people-friendly housedog. It should not come as a surprise that the Dachshund is fond of the sound of his own voice, bearing in mind his ancestral purpose!

History and Origins

Country of Origin: Germany

 

Dachshunds can be traced back to the 15th Century in Germany, and came to Britain with Prince Albert. Dachshunds’ short legs allowed them to go to ground after badgers and other burrowing animals, where they would bark loudly to let hunters know where they were underground.

 

They enjoyed popularity throughout Britain and America during the 19th Century though lost favour during World War I due to their Germanic origins.

 

Today the Dachshund is again a popular family pet, and the Long Haired Dachshund is an attractive and glamorous version of the breed.

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 him at least twice daily and in accordance with the feeding guidelines of his particular food. Ensuring the Dachshund is not allowed to become overweight is crucial, as excess weight can put pressure on his back.

Exercise

The Dachshund (Long Haired) requires at least an hour’s exercise per day. Ensure they have a good recall before letting them off lead as they will be inclined to follow their noses and can get into some small spaces and under fencing!

Other Information

Health and Common Issues

 

The most common health problem seen in the Dachshund is related to their body shape, making them prone to spinal disorders. Heart disease is also relatively common in the breed. As with many other breeds, various inherited eye disorders can be seen, and breeding dogs should be routinely eye tested.

 

Space Requirements

 

Whilst this is not a huge dog, they are long-backed and care should be taken to provide steps and ramps to avoid them jumping on or off furniture. Repeated trips up and down long flights of stairs should be avoided so the Dachshund is better suited to single storey living. A small to medium garden will suit as long as varied walks are provided.

 

Training Long-Haired Dachshund

 

Not a dog ideally suited to those who enjoy training as a hobby, the Dachshund (Long Haired) is capable of learning the basics, including walking on a loose lead, settling quietly and a reasonable level of recall. Typically a friendly dog, they should still be well socialised with people and other animals from an early age.

 

Best Family Dog Breeds

 

The Dachshund (Long Haired) can make a good family dog with older children or families without children. Their long back is easily damaged and their short stature easily leads children to try to pick them up, especially when young, or treat them as toys which they will not tolerate. 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 Dachshund ended up a member of the hound group due to a mistranslation of their name, ‘hund’ which means ‘dog’ and not specifically ‘hound’. The Dachshund is really a terrier type, bred to go to ground and either flush out quarry or hold it at bay until hunters could dig down to them.

Coton De Tulear

The Coton De Tulear is an attractive, intelligent little dog with a long white cottony coat. They are slightly longer than they are tall with dark pigmentation, giving them sparkling button nose and eyes and a very appealing expression.

 

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
  • Very vocal dog
  • Guard dog. Barks and alerts
  • Great with other pets
  • Great family dog
Personality

While their origins may lie in pest control on board trading ships, the Coton has enjoyed centuries as a companion dog, thriving on human company. They are still a very capable watchdog, joyfully alerting their human family to anything happening around them, and are intelligent and will enjoy fun training as well as snuggling on laps.

History and Origins

Country of Origin: Madagascar

 

The ancestors of the Coton De Tulear arrived in the port of Tulear in the 17th Century, more than likely as the ship dogs and companions of sailors and traders. Though there are some romantic and almost certainly fictional tales involving pirates and shipwrecks, these little dogs were mixed with the local dogs, and the most attractive of them prized by nobility.

 

Rediscovered by European travellers in the middle of the 20th Century, the Coton eventually made their way to the US and the UK, gaining full recognition with the UK Kennel Club in 2004.

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

Half an hour to an hour’s exercise will keep a Coton happy, ensuring that there are some games and training to exercise the brain as well as walks and running. As this is a long coated breed, time also needs to be dedicated to bathing, brushing and drying, particularly after muddy or wet walks.

Other Information

Health and Common Issues

 

The Coton De Tulear generally seems to be a healthy breed with few widely recognised breed specific health problems. Check with the breed club and the Kennel Club for up to date health information

 

Space Requirements

 

The Coton De Tulear is a small dog and does not require lavish housing. A secure garden, access to a variety of interesting walks and the space to bath and groom are necessary. This is a very adaptable little dog and as long as their exercise and training needs are met, can live happily in country, town or city.

 

Training Coton De Tulear

 

This is a bright clever little dog who will enjoy training and should be well socialised and habituated to normal neighbourhood sights and sounds, or they are inclined to be noisy. While ideal as a companion, for the owner who wanted to do more, the Coton is more than capable of taking part in mini agility, heelwork to music or trick training competitions.

 

Best Family Dog Breeds

 

The Coton is a friendly, appealing little dog, and can make an excellent family dog with children old enough to understand that they are not a toy or plaything. Their care and exercise requirements are not time consuming to meet and they should fit well into most homes, though very busy, chaotic homes may find this feeds the Coton’s alert, vocal nature a little too much. 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 Coton was so popular and prized by the noble families of Tulear that they passed a law prohibiting the common people from owning them!
  • A popular celebrity dog for some time, Coton De Tulear’s have been owned by the likes of Catherine Zeta-Jones, Debra Messing, Barbara Streisand and Jane Fonda. They are quite a rare breed and have nearly become extinct at several points in history. Coton De Tulear’s are known as the Royal Dog of Madagascar. They’re thought to be ancestors of the Bichon Tenerife dog and are considered to be a Bichon type.

Collie (Smooth)

A medium/large breed, well proportioned and dignified-looking, the Smooth Collie should look as if he's capable of a day's work. Adult males stand at 56-61cm and weigh 20.5-29.5kg, and females are 51-56cm and 18-25kg. The short, flat coat is harsh to the touch, and comes in sable and white, tricolour (black with tan and white markings) and blue merle (silver-blue with black).

 

The need-to-know

 

  • Dog suitable for experienced owners
  • 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
  • Chatty and vocal dog
  • Guard dog. Barks and alerts
  • May require training to live with other pets
  • May require training to live with kids
Lifespan:
14 – 16 years
Weight:
4 – 6kg
Height:
22 – 30cm
Colours:
White, shadings of light grey or fawn/apricot may be present on the ears
Size:
Small
UK Kennel Club Groups:
Toy
Personality

A friendly, good-tempered family dog, the Smooth Collie dog is alert and makes a good house watchdog. He can be prone to excessive barking if not trained or if bored, and does not enjoy being separated from his loved ones for too long. An active dog that needs mental stimulation, the Smooth Collie enjoys training and can reach high standards in many canine disciplines. He can be sensitive and needs gentle, calm handling.

History and Origins

The Rough and Smooth Collie might look very different, but beneath their coats they are the same dog. The Rough breed needed a thicker, longer coat to withstand the unforgiving conditions of the Scottish Highlands, whereas the shorter-haired Smooth Collie dog breed worked sheep in the lowlands, where the weather is milder. The Smooth Collie has been a recognisable breed for over two centuries, but sheepdogs of similar type have existed in Scotland long before then.

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 Smooth Collie dog breed needs at least an hour's daily exercise. Walking the same route day in, day out, will leave him mentally unchallenged, so vary routes and try some sports, like agility, obedience, rally-O, freestyle or flyball.

Other Information

Health and Common Issues

 

As with many breeds, the Smooth Collie dog breed 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.

Collie (Rough)

Graceful, swift and strong, the Collie has been a favourite of shepherds in Scotland and England for centuries. A highly intelligent and protective breed, the Collie is particularly affectionate with children, making him a loving family dog. There are two varieties: The Rough-Coated Collie has a beautiful, long coat, and the Smooth-Coated Collie has a short, dense coat. Both types need moderate exercise.

DID YOU KNOW? The earliest illustrations of Collies are found in The History of Quadrupeds by Thomas Beswick dated around 1800. Queen Victoria kept Collies at Balmoral Castle in Scotland, sparking interest in the breed among the wealthy elite. The Collie was made famous in the 1950s on the television show “Lassie.”

ALSO KNOWN AS: Rough Collie, Smooth Collie, Border Collie

 

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 daily
  • 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
Lifespan:
14 – 16 years
Weight:
Males should weigh around 27-34kg and females a little less at 23-30kg
Height:
Males stand 56-61cm tall and 51-56cm for females
Colours:
Sable, sable and white, tricolour and blue merle
Size:
Large
UK Kennel Club Groups:
Pastoral
Personality

Friendly and affectionate with family and those known or introduced as friends, the Rough Collie bonds closely and is a loyal companion. Inclined to bark to alert to the presence of strangers, the Rough Collie can make a good watch dog, but will back down quickly when asked to do so, as they are not inclined towards aggression.

 

Rough Collies are quick learners and will thrive when both their bodies and minds are kept exercised and entertained.

History and Origins

Country of Origin: Scotland

 

The early ancestors of the Rough Collie are thought to have arrived with the Romans, around 2000 years ago. Originally shorter in both leg and nose, the Rough Collie is thought to have had some influence from the Borzoi, known for its elongated, chiselled head, though exactly when this occurred is unclear.

 

Queen Victoria was instrumental in popularizing the Collie, however it was the Smooth variant she kept herself. Later, Queen Alexandra kept Rough Collies, and it is likely she who is responsible for the popularity of the breed in the show ring and the development of the more glamorous appearance of the breed today.

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. Rough Collies may be prone to bloating and stomach problems; smaller, more frequent meals can help minimise this risk. Discover more about how to offer your dog a balanced diet with our easy-to-follow guide.

Exercise

The Rough Collie is not a particularly demanding dog when it comes to dog exercise, around an hours walking per day, some play and free running and general involvement in family activities is provided. More will be happily accepted if you can offer it, this is a dog who wants to be with their family, whatever they are doing.

Other Information

Health and Common Issues

 

As with many dog breeds the Rough Collie 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.

 

Space Requirements

 

This is a reasonably large dog, with a heavy coat, so not ideally suitable for the tiny home. A reasonably sized house and secure garden, with access to a variety of rural walks will suffice. Better suited to quiet suburbs or countryside living as the Rough Collie will alert to all manner of noises, and may find cities and busy towns too noisy and frantic.

 

Training Collie (Rough)

 

Unlike some of other Collie or pastoral dog types, the Rough Collie is not a ‘training junkie’ and although they will enjoy working with their owner, is not overly demanding as long as the basics are taught and maintained and positive reinforcement methods used. As with exercise, the Rough Collie is happy to do whatever you are doing. Their enjoyment lies in working with their person, whatever the activity may be.

 

Best Family Dog Breeds

 

The Rough Collie can make a good family dog – although is better with older more sensible children as they can be sensitive to noise and family chaos! 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?

 

  • Almost everyone will recognise the Rough Collie as ‘Lassie’ the famous film character, as played by Pal, owned and trained by Rudd Weatherwax (and in fact all the Lassies in the film franchise were male dogs, descended from Pal), however Pal was not the first film-star Rough Collie.
  • The first Rough Collie to star on film, in fact the first of any breed of dog, was Blair, an English bred Rough Collie belonging to the British Film-maker Cecil Hepworth.
  • Blair first featured in a film (albeit briefly) in 1903 (Alice in Wonderland), and then in 1905 had the lead role in ‘Rescued by Rover’.
  • He featured in 15 films between 1903 and 1912, and was the first British movie star of any species!

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.

Dog