-
Skye Terrier
The Skye Terrier is an elegant dog and fiercely loyal to those he knows and loves. Although a rare breed, anyone who has the opportunity to share hearth and home with a Skye is truly fortunate. Given the chance, and with loving instruction, Skyes participate in Obedience, Agility, Tracking, and Pet Therapy, as well as serving as couch companions.
History
One of the oldest terriers, the breed originated on the Isle of Skye off the west coast of Scotland. Bred to destroy vermin, their acute sense of smell and strong muscular bodies gave them the ability to locate the fox, badger, and otter preying on a farm's livestock. Their long double coat and profuse hair over their face protected them from injury and inclement weather. Due to Queen Victoria's penchant for the Skye Terrier, the breed became popular in the nineteenth century. A dog named “Greyfriar's Bobby” epitomizes the devotion for which the Skye Terrier is known. Bobby guarded the grave of his master, Constable John Grey, for fourteen years until he died at the age of sixteen, after which a statue was erected in Edinburgh in his honor.
Temperament
Skyes are a medium-sized dog with short legs, a long body, and a large head. The coat must be brushed several times a week to avoid uncomfortable mats and trimming is necessary to keep the hair from dragging along the ground.
- Terrier Group; AKC recognized in 1887.
- Ranging in size between 35 to 45 pounds.
- Elegant, dignified, agile; vermin hunter.
Environment
- Apartment is fine.
- Fairly active indoors.
- The Skye Terrier is good for apartment life. It is relatively active indoors and will do okay without a yard.
Exercise
- Daily moderate exercise.
Grooming
- Frequent brushing.
- Periodic professional grooming recommended.
- Average shedding.
-
Scottish Deerhound
Resembling a larger, coated Greyhound, the Scottish Deerhound is a keen and alert sight hound, seen often in lure coursing events and the show ring. One of the oldest breeds, the Deerhound possesses a preeminent hunting ability. The hair on the body and neck is harsh and wiry, while the coat on the head, breast, and belly is much softer. Coat colors include blue-gray, gray, brindle, and black, among others.
History
Known centuries ago as the Scotch Greyhound, Rough Greyhound, and Highland Deerhound, the Scottish Deerhound became a clearly identified breed in the 16th and 17th centuries. He was the best breed to use for the pursuit and killing of deer, and at the time, could be owned by no one of rank lower than an earl. These exclusive ownership rules nearly led to the breed's extinction until breeders revived the Deerhound in the early 1800s.
Temperament
While he possesses a quiet and dignified personality in the home, the Scottish Deerhound may try to chase any furry animals that run past him. For that reason, the breed should be exercised on leash or in a fenced area. Although he enjoys his family, his size may be intimidating to smaller children. The breed's crisp, somewhat wiry coat, however, is exceptionally easy-care, requiring only brushing and occasional bathing.
- Hound Group; AKC recognized in 1886.
- Ranging in size from 75 to 110 pounds.
- Deer hunter.
Environment
- Apartment is ok.
- Low activity indoors.
Exercise
- Daily extended exercise.
Grooming
- Regular professional grooming is recommended.
- Average shedding.
-
Sealyham Terrier
Although small, the Sealyham Terrier is the embodiment of power and determination a true terrier! The Sealyham's wiry, weather-resistant double coat should be all white. Lemon, tan, or badger-colored markings are allowed on the head and ears. Very keen and alert, the breed was used as a hunter in the past, although today they excel as a family pet and participant in Earthdog competitions.
History
Originally bred in Wales, the Sealyham was developed from the West Highland White Terrier, the Wirehaired Fox Terrier, the Bull Terrier, and the Dandie Dinmont Terrier. The breed derives its name from Sealy Ham, Haverfordwest, Wales, the estate of Captain John Edwards, who created this breed to quarry badger, fox, and otter. Always game and very quick, the Sealyham's white coat was necessary so that they could be distinguished from the varmint they went to ground to capture!
Temperament
This proud, compact, sturdy little dog makes an ideal companion. Charming and inquisitive, he loves his family, but as a spirited terrier breed, needs something to keep his active mind occupied. The breed may enjoy hunting on the farm but can thrive anywhere if they are allowed to enjoy a brisk daily walk. Brushing and combing are necessary at least twice a week to remove mats and trimming is necessary every month.
- Terrier Group; AKC recognized in 1911.
- Ideal size about 10 inches tall at the shoulder and approximately 24 pounds.
- Badger/otter/fox hunter.
Environment
- Apartment is fine.
- Low activity indoors.
Exercise
- Daily moderate exercise.
Grooming
- Regular professional grooming recommended.
- Little to no shedding.
-
Rottweiler
Robust and powerful, the Rottweiler is happiest when given a job to perform. His intelligence, endurance, and willingness to work make him suitable as a police dog, herder, service dog, therapy dog, obedience competitor, and devoted companion. An inherent protector, the Rottweiler is self-confident and responds quietly and with a wait-and-see attitude to influences in his environment. He must be medium in size and his coat is black with rust to mahogany markings.
History
The Rottweiler's ancestors were the drover's dogs accompanying the herds the Romans brought with them when invading Europe. The controllable herding and guarding instincts were recognized by the Germans, and dogs were selectively bred for these traits. As the need for its services diminished, the Rottweiler almost fell into extinction. In the early 1900s, a newly formed club established a breed standard. The breed has not appreciably changed since that time.
Temperament
Rottweilers love their people and may behave in a clownish manner toward family and friends, but they are also protective of their territory and do not welcome strangers until properly introduced. Obedience training and socialization are musts. They require minimal grooming maintenance.
- Working Group; AKC recognized in 1931.
- Ranging in size from 22 to 27 inches tall at the shoulder.
- Guard dog; cattle driver.
Environment
- Apartment is ok.
- Low activity indoors.
Exercise
- Daily moderate exercise.
Grooming
- Easy care.
- Average shedding.
-
Schipperke
The small, foxlike Schipperke is known for its mischievous expression and distinctive black coat, which stands off from the body and is harsh to the touch. This enthusiastic, joyful, and sometimes willful dog has a thickset and cobby body and lacks a tail. Although historically a watchdog and vermin hunter, today this ageless breed enjoys competing in conformation, agility, and obedience, often well into its teens.
History
The Schipperke originated in the Flemish regions of Belgium, bred down in size from a black sheepdog called the Leauvenaar. The breed worked as a companion of tradesmen as well as a watchdog and ratter on the river barges, which is where they got the name “Schipperke” since the Flemish word “schip” means boat. Another common nickname for the Schipperke is “Little Captain.”
Temperament
The Schipperke is extremely active and loves to be involved in what is going on around him, but due to their watchdog tendencies, they can turn into barkers if not taught otherwise. Equally happy in an apartment or a home with a large yard, they should be kept on a leash when not in a fenced area and be taken to obedience classes. The breed's coat needs only weekly brushing and an occasional bath, although they do shed several times a year.
- Non-Sporting Group; AKC recognized in 1904.
- Ideal size: 10 to 13 inches tall at the shoulder.
- Watchdog; companion.
Environment
- Apartment is fine.
- Very active indoors.
Exercise
- Daily moderate exercise.
Grooming
- Regular combing and brushing.
- Heavy seasonal shedding.
-
Redbone Coonhound
Known for its flashy red coat, the Redbone Coonhound is a versatile worker and possesses the ability to hunt and swim over a variety of terrain while still maintaining its speed and agility. Redbones possess a natural treeing instinct and will track game ranging from raccoons to cougars. An adaptable hunter with a good, cold nose, the breed is an excellent choice for the hunter who wants an honest, versatile, and capable trailer.
History
Dating back to red foxhounds brought over by Scottish immigrants in the late 1700s and red foxhounds imported from Ireland before the Civil War, the Redbone Coonhound evolved into a recognized, respected breed well before 1900. While other coonhound breeders selected only for function, Redbone breeders, for a period of several years, concentrated on breeding a nearly solid-colored, flashy, red dog, bred also for looks. As soon as the eye-catching color bred true, these serious hunters once again selected for performance. Today both attributes are well established in the breed.
Temperament
The breed is even-tempered and trainable in the home and wants to please its owner. It is amenable to formal training. The Redbone's short, smooth coat requires only occasional brushing and bathing.
- Hound Group; AKC recognized in 2009.
- Ranging in size from 21 to 27 inches tall at the shoulder.
- Raccoon hunter; small/large game hunter.
Environment
- Apartment is ok.
- All weather.
Exercise
- Daily vigorous exercise.
Grooming
- Occasional brushing.
- Light shedding.
-
Rhodesian Ridgeback
A large and muscular dog, the Rhodesian Ridgeback was not only developed as a hunter but also as a family protector. The breed can be light wheaten to red wheaten and are sleek and glossy in appearance. Originally bred to hunt lions the breed is also known as the African Lion Hound.
History
A native of South Africa, the Rhodesian Ridgeback was bred by the Boer farmers to fill their specific need for a serviceable hunting dog in the wilds. In 1877 Reverend Helm introduced two Ridgebacks into Rhodesia where big game hunters found them outstanding in the sport of hunting lions on horseback. They raised and bred these dogs with an appreciation for their exceptional hunting qualities, the ridge on their back becoming a unique trademark. In 1950 outstanding specimens were imported to the United States and the breed was admitted to registration by the AKC in 1955.
Temperament
Due to their short coats Ridgebacks shed very little and require only weekly brushing and occasional baths. The breed is also athletic, requiring regular exercise. Trustworthy with children, they are “people” dogs and like to be where you are, possibly curled up on the couch if permitted.
- Hound Group; AKC recognized in 1955.
- Ranging in size from 24 to 27 inches tall at the shoulder and 70 to 85 pounds.
- Lion hunter; guard dog.
Environment
- Apartment is ok.
Exercise
- Daily vigorous exercise.
Grooming
- Easy care.
- Average shedding.
-
Puggle
The Puggle is a cross between the Beagle and the Pug. The best way to determine the temperament of a mixed breed is to look up all breeds in the cross and know you can get any combination of any of the characteristics found in either breed. Not all designer hybrids are 50% purebred to 50% purebred. It is very common for breeders to breed multi-generation crosses. The first Puggles ever bred were bred by a breeder named Wallace Havens.
-
Rat Terrier
The Rat Terrier is a multipurpose companion dog that is capable of hunting rodents and vermin above and below ground as well as coursing small game. He is a sturdy, compact, small-to-medium-sized parti-colored dog giving the appearance of elegance and athleticism. His short, smooth coat may come in any variation of pied patterning. Pied is described as comparatively large patches of one or more colors in combination with white. Acceptable colors, with or without “tan points”, include the predominantly black, or chocolate, red, apricot, blue, fawn, tan, or lemon.
History
An American breed, the Rat Terrier was created by immigrants using a mixture of crosses of old-time Fox Terriers and other European Terriers common in the 19th century; the Old English White Terrier, Manchester Terrier, Bull Terrier, etc.; and later more Smooth Fox Terrier, Beagle, Toy Fox Terriers, Whippets and Italian Greyhounds. From 1910 through the “dust bowl” era of the 1930s, the Rat Terrier was one of the most common farm dogs, used for ratting, hunting varmints, and other work.
Temperament
This loyal, active, and playful breed is at its best as a member of its human family but may be reserved with strangers. Intelligent and trainable, many Rat Terriers excel in Agility and Obedience, events that also serve as excellent exercise outlets. The breed sheds seasonally and requires brushing with a soft brush or rubber curry mitt.
- Miscellaneous class; Terrier group designation.
- Two sizes: Miniature – At least 10 inches tall at the shoulder, not to exceed 13 inches; Standard – over 13 inches, and up to and including 18 inches in height measured at the shoulder. Generally 10 to 25 pounds.
- Ratter; farm and companion dog.
Environment
- Apartment is ok.
- Very active indoors.
Exercise
- Daily moderate exercise.
Grooming
- Easy care.
- Occasional brushing.
-
Poodle
The Poodle, though often equated to the beauty with no brains, is exceptionally smart, active and excels in obedience training. The breed comes in three size varieties, which may contribute to why Poodle is one of the most popular breeds according to AKC Registration statistics. Poodles can be a variety of solid colors, including white, black, apricot and gray, and parti-colored.
History
The breed originated in Germany as a water retriever. The stylish “Poodle clip” was designed by hunters to help the dogs move through the water more efficiently. The patches of hair left on the body are meant to protect vital organs and joints which are susceptible to cold. The Standard variety is the oldest of the three varieties.
Ranked second most intelligent dog breed just behind the Border Collie, the poodle is skillful in many dog sports and activities, including agility, obedience, tracking to herding, circus performers or assistance dogs. Poodles have taken top honors in many conformation shows, including “Best in Show” at the Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show in 1991 and 2002, and at the World Dog Show in 2007 and 2010.
Temperament
The Poodle can accommodate nearly any size living quarters. His hypoallergenic coat may reduce allergic reactions, but requires regular professional grooming. Poodles are an active breed and require daily exercise.
- Non-Sporting (Standard and Miniature) and Toy (Toy) Groups; AKC recognized in 1887.
- Water retriever, companion.
Environment
- Apartment is fine.
- Low activity indoors.
Exercise
- Daily light to moderate exercise.
Grooming
- Regular brushing.
- Regular professional grooming is recommended.
- Little to no shedding.
- Easy on allergy sufferers.
-
Poo-Chi
The Poo-Chi is a cross between the Poodle and the Chihuahua. The best way to determine the temperament of a mixed breed is to look up all breeds in the cross and know you can get any combination of any of the characteristics found in either breed. Not all designer hybrid dogs are 50% purebred to 50% purebred. It is very common for breeders to breed multi-generation crosses.
-
Pointer
A hard-driving hunting dog possessing stamina, courage, and the desire to go, the Pointer is bred primarily for sport afield and definitely looks the part. He gives the impression of power and grace, with a noble carriage, an intelligent expression, and a muscular body. His short coat can be liver, lemon, black, and orange; either in combination with white or solid-colored.
History
Pointers first appeared in England around 1650 and were the first breed used to stand game. Before wing-shooting with guns became popular, Pointers were often used to locate and point hares in conjunction with Greyhound coursing. The Pointer's lineage is foggy, but there is no question that it includes Foxhound, Greyhound, and Bloodhound crossed with some sort of “setting spaniel,” which played an important part in the creation of all modern bird dogs.
Temperament
The Pointer's even temperament and alert good sense make him a congenial companion both in the field and in the home, but he requires both physical and mental exercise. He should be dignified, but should never show timidity toward man or dog. The breed's short coat is easy to care for with minimal effort.
- Sporting Group; AKC recognized in 1884.
- Ranging in size from 23 to 28 inches tall at the shoulder and 44 to 75 pounds.
- Gundog.
Environment
- Apartment? Not so much.
- Active indoors.
Exercise
- Daily vigorous exercise.
- Tireless.
Grooming
- Easy care.
- Average shedding.
-
Pom-Poo
The Pom-Poo is a cross between the Pomeranian and the Poodle. The best way to determine the temperament of a mixed breed is to look up all breeds in the cross and know you can get any combination of any of the characteristics found in either breed. Not all designer hybrid dogs are 50% purebred to 50% purebred. It is very common for breeders to breed multi-generation crosses.
-
Peek-A-Poo
The Peek-a-poo is a cross between the Pekingese and the Poodle. The best way to determine the temperament of a mixed breed is to look up all breeds in the cross and know you can get any combination of any of the characteristics found in either breed. Not all designer hybrid dogs are 50% purebred to 50% purebred. It is very common for breeders to breed multi-generation crosses.
-
Pekingese
The Pekingese is a well-balanced, compact dog of Chinese origin with a heavy front and lighter hindquarters. They are small dogs but are not to be considered delicate or dainty. Their image is lion-like, implying courage, dignity, boldness, and self-esteem. They can be any color.
History
Chinese art throughout the ages, starting with the Tang dynasty of the 8th century, abounds with images of the Pekingese, who gets his name from the ancient city of Peking, now called Beijing. Pekingese were held sacred in ancient China and could only be owned by royalty. At that time, the punishment for stealing a Pekingese was death. Pekingese came to Europe as a result of the war. When the British overtook the Chinese Imperial Palace in 1860, they returned home with several of the dogs.
Temperament
Pekingese possess a regal dignity, intelligence, and self-importance, making them good-natured, opinionated, and affectionate family companions. Their small size makes them a good choice for apartment life, but they are sometimes difficult to housebreak. They are relatively inactive indoors and do not need a yard, but enjoy walks. Because of their long undercoats, Pekes need at least an hourly brushing session per week.
- Toy Group; AKC recognized in 1906.
- Weigh less than 14 pounds.
- Watchdog, canine companion.
Environment
- Apartment is fine.
- Low activity indoors.
Exercise
- Daily light exercise.
Grooming
- Daily combing and brushing.
- Average shedding.
-
Old English Sheepdog
Its trademark is its beautiful, profuse coat, but the intelligent and agile Old English Sheepdog (OES) can easily complete any demanding task asked of him by a shepherd or drover. Square in build and possessing great strength, the OES enjoys working and is seen in the conformation, obedience, agility, and herding rings today with their characteristic shuffling gait. His coat, which serves as insulation, can be any shade of gray, grizzle, blue or blue merle with or without white markings.
History
The Old English Sheepdog originated in the early 19th century in the western counties of England and is believed to have descended from the Scotch Bearded Collie and the Russian Owtchar. The OES herded sheep and cattle into major city markets, earning the nickname “bobtail” due to their docked tails. The short tail signaled their working status, earning their owners a tax exemption.
Temperament
The OES is an athletic animal, filled with clownish energy, and therefore requires regular exercise or a job to do. Although affectionate with his family, he may try to herd people or other objects. If the coat is of the correct texture, the breed should not be any more difficult to groom than other long-haired dogs, provided a dog is introduced to it early.
- Herding Group; AKC recognized in 1888.
- Size: 21 inches tall and upward at the shoulder.
- Sheep/cattle driver.
Environment
- Apartment is ok.
- Low to moderate activity indoors.
Exercise
- Daily moderate exercise.
Grooming
- Daily brushing and combing.
- Regular professional grooming recommended.
- Light to average shedding.
-
Ori Pei
The Ori Pei is not a purebred dog. It is a cross between the Pug and the Shar-Pei. The best way to determine the temperament of a mixed breed is to look up all breeds in the cross and know you can get any combination of any of the characteristics found in either breed. Not all of these designer hybrid dogs being bred are 50% purebred to 50% purebred. It is very common for breeders to breed multi-generation crosses.
The Ori Pei was created in North America in the 1970s. A breeder by the name of Aaron Silver loved the Chinese Shar-Pei breed but did not like all of the health problems that were commonly associated with it, such as eye tacking, skin problems, and hip dysplasia. He wanted to have a smaller version of the Shar-Pei without all of the health problems. He used the Shar-Pei and Pug to create the Ori Pei.
Recognized Names:
American Canine Hybrid Club = Ori-Pei x Pug = Pug-A-Pei.
Designer Dogs Kennel Club = Ori-Pei x Pug = Pug-A-Pei.
International Designer Canine Registry
Designer Breed Registry = Ori-Pei x Pug = Pug a Pei.
Designer Breed Registry = Chinese Shar-Pei x Pug = Ori-Pei.
-
Norwegian Elkhound
A solid, sturdy hunter of elk, bear, and other wild animals, the Norwegian Elkhound has a temperament that is dignified, independent and generally, friendly. A hardy silver-grey dog with distinctive saddle markings and medium in size and substance, the Norwegian Elkhound is not only known for its hunting ability but also for its versatility and stamina, which in rugged terrains remains unparalleled.
History
The Norwegian Elkhound comes down to us through more than six millennia with all his Nordic traits untainted. An ancient breed from Scandinavia, the Elkhound worked as a hunting and guard dog for the Vikings. The dogs tracked, encircled, and held game such as bear and moose for the hunter. The breed was not shown until 1877 when the Norwegian Hunters' Association held its first show.
Temperament
The Norwegian Elkhound is bold and energetic, an effective guardian yet normally friendly, and does well with children, especially when introduced to them at a young age. The Elkhound is a very people-oriented breed and does not like to be shut away from its family. The breed does require regular exercise but does not require elaborate grooming procedures.
- Hound Group; AKC recognized in 1913.
- Ideal size ranged from 19 to 20 inches tall at the shoulder and 48 to 55 pounds.
- Elk hunter.
Environment
- Apartment is ok.
- Fairly active indoors.
- Thrive in cooler climates.
Exercise
- Daily vigorous exercise.
Grooming
- Daily brushing.
- Heavy seasonal shedding.
-
Norwich Terrier
Spirited and stocky with prick ears and a slightly foxy expression, the Norwich Terrier is one of the smallest working terriers. Despite his small size, the Norwich has good substance and is an eager worker. The breed's wiry, weather-resistant coat can be red, wheaten, black and tan or grizzle.
History
The Norwich originated in East Anglia, England, and was developed as a barnyard ratter. Game and hardy, they were used to flush fox and other vermin from their dens during hunts and also cherished as a fun-loving family pet. The breed used to have two ears styles but now is only allowed to have upright ears. In 1979 the drop-eared variety became a separate breed known as the Norfolk Terrier.
Temperament
Fearless and loyal, the Norwich Terrier does well with other animals and families. They are known for their ability to adapt to different situations, making the breed ideal for either the city or country lifestyle. Because a Norwich has strong hunting instincts and typical terrier curiosity, most breeders and owners recommend that the breed be exercised in a fenced area or on a leash. The wiry coat requires regular grooming, including brushing and stripping.
- Terrier Group; AKC recognized in 1936.
- Ideal height should not exceed 10 inches tall at the shoulder; Ideal weight is approximately 12 lbs.
- Vermin hunter.
Environment
- Apartment is ok.
- Fairly active indoors.
Exercise
- Daily vigorous exercise.
Grooming
- Daily combing and brushing.
- Bathe only when necessary.
- Light shedding.
-
Newfoundland
A large dog and a true workhorse, the Newfoundland is a master at long-distance swimming and has true lifesaving instincts in the water. He is large and strong, possessing a heavy coat to protect him from icy waters. Equally, at home in the water and on land, today's Newfoundland competes in conformation, obedience, agility, tracking, draft, and water tests, and carting. His coat can be black, brown, gray, or white and black.
History
There are many conflicting stories as to the origin of the Newfoundland some say he descended from the Great Pyrenees or a “French hound” but nearly all agree that he originated in Newfoundland and his ancestors were brought there by fisherman from the European continent. In Newfoundland, he was used as a working dog to pull nets for the fishermen and to haul wood from the forest. He also did heavy labor, such as powering the blacksmith's bellows.
Temperament
The Newfoundland's sweet disposition makes him a good fit for families. Although he appears somewhat docile, he is an active dog and will need daily exercise. Regular brushing is important to maintain his plush coat. Newfs are also an intelligent breed and are readily trained.
- Working Group; AKC recognized in 1886.
- Ranging in size from 26 to 28 inches tall at the shoulder and 100 to 150 pounds.
- Multipurpose dog; water rescue.
Environment
- Apartment is ok.
- Low activity indoors.
- Thrive in cooler climates.
Exercise
- Daily light exercise.
Grooming
- Regular brushing.
- Heavy seasonal shedding.
- Bathe only when necessary.
