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Norfolk Terrier
One of the smallest working terriers, the Norfolk Terrier is active, compact, and hardy, considered to be the “perfect demon” in the field. Farmers and hunters admire the breed's gameness, loyalty, and great charm. Known for his drop ears, the Norfolk Terrier has a wiry, weather-resistant coat that can be red, wheaten, black and tan, or grizzle.
History
A native of England, the Norfolk used to be considered the same breed as the Norwich Terrier. Comfortable working alone or in packs, it was developed as a barnyard ratter and used to bolt vermin such as fox from their dens during hunts. In 1979 the drop-eared variety became known as the Norfolk Terrier and the prick-eared version of the Norwich Terrier. Today, the two breeds have slight differences and different breed standards.
Temperament
Energetic and spry, the Norfolk 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. They make affectionate and loyal companions and enjoy walks and spending time with their owners. The Norfolk's coat requires regular grooming, including brushing and stripping.
- Terrier Group; AKC recognized in 1979.
- Approximately 9-10 inches tall at the shoulder and 11-12 pounds. Females may be smaller.
- Vermin hunter.
Environment
- Apartment is ok.
- Fairly active indoors.
Exercise
- Daily vigorous exercise.
Grooming
- Daily combing and brushing.
- Light shedding.
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Morkie
Originally called the Yorktese, but now more commonly called the Morkie is a cross between the Yorkie and the Maltese. Morkie appearance varies widely, some expressing more of a Yorkshire terrier appearance and some a more Maltese look. They are a small breed dog, typically ranging between 4-12 pounds in weight. Common colors expressed in Morkie coats are black, brown, or tan and white. Their coat is usually long and soft while Morkie ears can be pointed, like that of a Yorkie, or floppy, like that of a Maltese.
Yorkshire Terriers and Malteses are considered light-shedders. So while the shedding is minimal and most times not noticeable neither breed is considered allergy-free. Those with mild allergies may be able to tolerate a Morkie, but others may still have allergic reactions as seen in several families. If you are concerned about allergies, it is best to choose a breed with a predictable non-shedding coat like Poodles, Bichon Frises and Shih Tzus.
Morkies are active and playful. They form strong attachments to owners as well as desire a lot of attention from their owners. Morkies are a social dog and love to be played with. Morkies are excitable, energetic, confident, and loyal. This breed can be difficult because of their stubbornness, so it is important to begin training early on in its life. They are great for families with slightly older children, because of their small size.
Morkies normally get along well with other dogs and non-canine pets that they have been brought up with. Morkies can be destructive if left alone for extended periods, at such times can be prone to excessive barking. Like many dogs, Morkies are suspicious of strangers or unusual sounds in their environment and are quick to alert owners.
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Neapolitan Mastiff
Large and powerful, the Neapolitan Mastiff is known for its massiveness massive head, massive bone, and massive body. Despite their fierce appearance and serious demeanor, Mastiffs are generally peaceful, steady dogs. The breed's trademark is the loose skin that covers their bodies, the abundant wrinkles and folds on the head, and their rolling and lumbering gait. Their short coat can by gray (blue), black, mahogany, and tawny. Some brindle and white markings are allowed. Training should be easy, as long as you have a firm hand.
History
An ancient breed, the Neapolitan Mastiff's lineage can be traced back to ancient Egypt, Persia, Mesopotamia, and Asia to the dogs of war used by the Roman army. The breed later existed on estates and farms in northern Italy, designed to be imposing in appearance for use as a defender of owner and property.
Temperament
Well-bred and socialized Mastini are steady and loyal to their own families but protective around strangers. Due to the breed's size, strength and temperament, experts do not recommend a Neapolitan Mastiff for first-time dog owners or families with young children. They should receive some form of daily exercise, but beware that they don't overdo it in hot weather. Their short coats are easy to care for, but potential owners should not be afraid of a little drool!
- Working Group; AKC recognized in 2004.
- Ranging in size from 24 to 31 inches tall at the shoulder; Average weight is 150 pounds for males and 110 pounds for females.
- Guard and protection dog.
Environment
- Apartment is ok.
- Low activity indoors.
- Be careful in hot weather.
Exercise
- Daily moderate to extended exercise.
Grooming
- Easy care.
- Average shedding.
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Miniature Pinscher
Known as the “King of the Toys,” the Miniature Pinscher is a compact, smooth-coated dog who is alert, spirited, and fearless, with a unique high-stepping, hackney-like gait. With his black and rust coloring, cropped ears, and docked tail, he resembles his cousin the Doberman Pinscher, but he is not a miniature Dobie. Coat colors include red, stag red (red with black hairs), black with rust markings, or chocolate with tan.
History
“Pinscher” means “Terrier” in German, and the Miniature Pinscher is a distinctly German breed that originated several centuries ago as an efficient barnyard ratter. The Miniature Pinscher is reported to include the Dachshund and Italian Greyhound among its ancestors, along with the shorthaired German Pinscher.
Temperament
The Miniature Pinscher can really spice up a person's life. This dog is small, but he doesn't know it! He's quick and active, with a lively curiosity. They are good family companions and look out for their family, bravely challenging intruders with their bold, insistent bark. The “Min Pin” will be happiest with a family that treats him like a standard-sized dog. He may be stubborn, but he's also smart. Their small size makes them a good choice for apartment life. Play and a daily walk will take care of most of their exercise needs. His short, easy-care coat requires occasional brushing and shampooing.
- Toy Group; AKC recognized in 1925.
- Ranging from 10 to 12 inches tall at the shoulder.
- Rat hunter.
Environment
- Apartment is fine.
- Very active indoors.
- thrive in warmer climates.
Exercise
- Daily moderate exercise.
Grooming
- Easy care.
- Average shedding.
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Miniature Schnauzer
Known for his distinguished, handsome appearance, the Miniature Schnauzer is characterized by its whiskers and double coat, which has a hard, wiry outer coat and close, soft undercoat. Coat colors can be salt and pepper, black and silver, and solid black. Despite his small stature, the Miniature Schnauzer can give an alarm just as well as a larger dog. That, combined with his naturally protective nature, makes him an excellent watchdog. He is also the most popular of the three Schnauzer breeds, which include the Giant and the Standard.
History
Derived from the Standard Schnauzer from Germany, the Miniature was exhibited as a distinct breed as early as 1899. He was originally bred to be a small farm dog, able to go to ground for all kinds of vermin, and is recognizable in German paintings as far back as the 15th century.
Temperament
Smart, trainable and consistently cheerful, this diminutive breed adapts easily to small city apartments, yet remains just as much at home in the country with lots of space to run around. Their double coat requires hand stripping for the show ring or clipping for the average pet owner but sheds very little.
- Terrier Group; AKC recognized in 1926.
- Ranging in size from 12 to 14 inches tall at the shoulder.
- Farm dog; companion.
Environment
- Apartment is fine.
- Moderate activity indoors.
Exercise
- Daily long walk.
Grooming
- Daily combing and brushing.
- Regular professional grooming recommended.
- Little to no shedding.
- Easy on allergy sufferers.
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Manchester Terrier
The Manchester Terrier comes in two varieties: the Toy, which weighs up to 12 lbs, and the Standard, which weighs more than 12 lbs but must not exceed 22 lbs. They are black and tan in color and have a short, sleek coat. They are neat and tend to groom themselves.
History
The Manchester Terrier was developed in England and originates from the Black and Tan Terrier, the oldest known terrier breed. They were bred to hunt rats and other small vermin and still retain that ability today. The cuddly house pet quickly turns into an efficient worker whether in the backyard or field when it detects the presence of a rodent.
Temperament
The Manchester Terrier is a lively, sharp-witted breed that is eager to learn. The breed is extremely loyal to its owner(s) and forms a strong bond early on. Since it is a terrier breed, the Manchester has a tendency to test boundaries, making consistency important in any form of training. This is not a “barky” or neurotic breed, but they are good watchdogs. They do well in rural and urban environments.
- Terrier ” Toy Groups; AKC recognized in 1886 (Toy) and 1887 (Standard).
- Weight: Standard: 12-22 lbs, Toy: up to 12 lbs.
- Fun loving, agile and devoted; Vermin Hunter.
Environment
- Apartment is fine.
- Very active indoors.
- Thrive in warmer climates.
Exercise
- Daily moderate exercise.
Grooming
- Easy care.
- Average to low shedding.
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Mastiff
One of the biggest dogs recognized by the American Kennel Club, the massive Mastiff loves being around people and is known to bond closely with his ‰Ычfamily.' A combination of grandeur and good nature as well as courage and docility, he was bred in England and used as a watchdog for more than two thousand years. The breed's short coat can be fawn, apricot, or brindle.
History
As early as 3000 B.C., drawings on Egyptian monuments depict typical Mastiffs. Later, even Caesar noticed the fearless, strong Mastiff as it fought alongside the British soldiers in 55 B.C. Impressed by the breed's courage, he brought a group of them back to Rome and forced them to take part in bull baiting, lion fighting, and fights with human gladiators. Later, the Mastiff became popular with the peasants in England, where the dogs were used to keep wolves and other dangerous predators under control as well to as protecting the home.
Temperament
The Mastiff is a powerful yet gentle and loyal companion, but because of his size and need for space, he is best suited for country or suburban life. The breed requires light exercise and minimal grooming.
- Working Group; AKC recognized in 1885.
- Minimum height of 30 inches tall at the shoulder for males and 27 inches tall for females.
- Guard dog.
Environment
- Apartment is ok.
- Low activity indoors.
Exercise
- Daily light exercise.
Grooming
- Easy care.
- Bathe when necessary.
- Average shedding.
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Malti-Poo
The Malti-poo is a mix of Maltese and Toy or Miniature Poodle and may inherit the two breeds' traits of being affectionate, and friendly. They are meant to be companion dogs, creating strong bonds with their people. As with any mixed breed, they may or may not have the desirable traits of each parent breed. The Malti-poo is meant to be outgoing, friendly, and low shedding.
Malti-poos have alert, expressive faces and a puppy-like demeanor. They are generally up to 14 inches tall and can weigh anywhere from 5-15 pounds. Coats vary from straight to curly or wavy and are usually white or cream, although the color varies as well. They should be brushed several times a week to prevent matting and snarls.
In common with both parent breeds, Malti-poos are energetic, smart, and spunky. Both Poodles and Maltese are agile and trainable, especially with reward-based training. The Malti-poo is always up for a game or a good chase around the yard. A brisk walk once or twice a day is also beneficial. Because of his size and energy level, he can live almost anywhere and is perfectly happy in a small apartment.
Malti-poos become extremely attached to their family and don't like being left alone. They are prone to separation anxiety and may become destructive or depressed when separated from their people. They do best in a household where someone is with them most of the time.
Since both the Poodle and Maltese are intelligent breeds, Malti-poos may inherit that intelligence. With the right kind of training, they may do well in agility and obedience trials, love learning tricks, and make good therapy dogs. But they're also sensitive and only respond well to positive, kind training. Reward him with treats and enthusiastic praise and he'll look forward to training sessions. He'll learn quickly and will proudly show off all his tricks.
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Malti-Shi
The Malti-Shi is a cross between the Maltese and the Shih-Tzu. 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.
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Malti-Chon
The Maltichon is a cross between the Maltese and the Bichon Frise. 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.
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Malti-Pom
The Malti-Pom is a cross between the Maltese and the Pomeranian. 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.
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Lhasa Apso
The Lhasa Apso is a small, hardy breed with a beautiful cloak of hair that parts down their back from head to tail. Their temperament is unique: joyful and mischievous, dignified, and aloof. An independent breed, the Lhasa's goal in life is not necessarily to please their master. Popular in the show ring, the breed also excels at activities that provide constant challenges, such as agility.
History
The Lhasa Apso originated hundreds of years ago in the isolated reaches of the Himalayan Mountains. It functioned primarily as a household sentinel, guarding homes of Tibetan nobility and Buddhist monasteries, particularly in or near the sacred city of Lhasa. In 1933, C. Suydam Cutting introduced the first Lhasas to the U.S. gifts from the 13th Dalai Lama.
Temperament
Bred as indoor watchdogs for hundreds of years, Lhasas can be suspicious of strangers, so early socialization is critical. They thrive living with adults or families with older children and enjoy regular walks. A long-coated breed, they also require frequent grooming. Many pet owners enjoy keeping their Lhasa in the shorter “puppy cut.”
- Non-Sporting Group; AKC recognized in 1935.
- Ranging in size from 10 to 11 inches tall at the shoulder and 12 to 18 pounds.
- Companion; watchdog.
Environment
- Apartment is fine.
- Active indoors.
Exercise
- Daily light exercise.
Grooming
- Regular brushing.
- Regular professional grooming.
- Very little shedding.
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Maltese
A toy dog covered from head to toe with a mantle of long, silky white hair, the Maltese is gentle-mannered and affectionate, known for being lively, playful, and fearless despite its small size. Maltese are intelligent little dogs that are very fast learners if they feel sufficiently rewarded. Today, their refinement, cleanliness, and portability make them a popular choice as a companion dog.
History
The Maltese was once known as “Ye ancient dogge of Malta,” for that is where they were first recognized and how they received their name. The breed has been an aristocrat of the canine world for over 28 centuries, owned by royalty all over the globe. Even as far back as the 1500s, they were claimed to be sold for $2,000. And while other companion dogs such as the Pomeranian have been bred down from larger sizes, the first Maltese were the same size as the dogs we see today.
Temperament
Even though the Maltese are a very small dog, they tend to be brave and without fear. They are one of the most gentle mannered of all little dogs, but are also full of energy and very playful, making them great family dogs. Maltese should be brushed daily, and groomed often to prevent mats from forming in their long, white coat.
- Toy Group; AKC recognized in 1888.
- Under 7 pounds; 4 to 6 pounds preferred.
- Companion dog.
Environment
- Apartment is fine.
- Very active indoors.
Exercise
- Daily light exercise.
Grooming
- Daily combing and brushing.
- Regular professional grooming is recommended.
- Little to no shedding.
- Easy on allergy sufferers.
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Labradoodle
The Labradoodle is a hybrid breed of dog derived from breeding a Labrador Retriever and a poodle. At their best, Labradoodles are intelligent, friendly, and affectionate. They come in three sizes: miniature (weighing 15 to 30 pounds), medium (30 to 45 pounds), and standard (45 to more than 100 pounds). Because they are a crossbreed their traits are not fixed, so there is no guarantee that the Labradoodle puppy you purchase will fall into the desired weight range.
Labradoodles have a moderate activity level. Larger Labradoodles may be more active than their smaller kin. They need a good walk or active playtime each day, and, if you're interested (and the dog's overall health is good enough), they are athletic enough to participate in such dog sports as agility, flyball, obedience, and rally. They can also be excellent therapy dogs.
Both of the breeds used to create Labradoodles tend to be smart and learn quickly. If you begin socialization and training early and use positive reinforcement techniques such as praise, play, and food rewards, you will be rewarded with a wonderful companion. Their large size gives them the sturdiness to withstand roughhousing with little children. Their endearing temperament makes them the perfect addition to any family. They are also a very hearty dog, being a hybrid. They can live for 10-12 years on average.
Poodles have a reputation for being hypoallergenic, meaning that they can be tolerated by people who have allergies to dogs. Because they have the Poodle in their heritage, Labradoodles are sometimes promoted as being hypoallergenic. But allergies are not caused by a particular dog coat type but by dander. Some people with mild allergies react less severely to particular dogs like the Labradoodle.
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Lakeland Terrier
The Lakeland Terrier has a dense, wiry coat with longer hair on the legs and muzzle, often giving him a distinct beard. Small, sturdy, and workmanlike, the breed's narrow frame allows him to squeeze into rocky dens to chase after vermin. While generally a show dog or family companion today, Lakelands can also be found utilizing their natural instincts at earth dog events or digging in the backyard. The breed comes in a variety of colors including blue, black, liver, red, and wheaten with or without a patch of color over the back and shoulders called a “saddle”.
History
The Lakeland is an English breed dating back to the 1800s. One of the oldest living terrier breeds still known today, they were originally developed by farmers to accompany them on hunts and to prevent fox and other vermin from destroying their sheep herds.
Temperament
The Lakeland is bold, friendly, and confident but has a quiet disposition. While he is well suited for a variety of living situations including rural and urban settings, the Lakeland's energy level makes him well suited for an active lifestyle. His coat shed minimally but requires periodic clipping by a groomer.
- Terrier Group; AKC recognized in 1934.
- Ideal size approximately 14 inches tall at the shoulder and 17 pounds.
- Vermin hunter.
Environment
- Apartment is fine.
- Very active indoors.
Exercise
- Daily brisk exercise.
Grooming
- Regular professional grooming recommended.
- Little to no shedding.
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Kerry Blue Terrier
Intelligent and game, the Kerry Blue Terrier is truly an all-purpose dog. Originally bred to hunt and retrieve, Kerries can be found today in the show, obedience, agility, herding, and earth dog rings. The Kerry's trademark soft, wavy coat can range from deep slate gray-blue to light blue-gray. Kerry Blues are born black and, if correct, possess the dominant gene for coat fading. They will fade and acquire their adult color by 18 months.
History
A native of County Kerry, Ireland, the Kerry Blue Terrier was used as an all-round working and utility terrier, responsible for hunting small game and birds, retrieving from land and water, and herding sheep and cattle. It is thought that the peasantry of Ireland developed the Kerry as an answer to the nobility using Irish Wolfhounds. The Kerry was used to help the peasantry to silently hunt the noble hunting grounds.
Temperment
Energetic and fun-loving, the Kerry Blue Terrier enjoys being part of a family. They possess a typical terrier personality though and require daily exercise and firm and patient training. Families with other pets should beware; as hunters, Kerries may not accept cats or small pets. Their coats are hypoallergenic, but still need to be brushed and trimmed regularly.
- Terrier Group; AKC recognized in 1922.
- Ideal size is 18 inches tall at the shoulder and 33 to 40 pounds, with females slightly smaller.
- Farm dog; small game hunter; retriever.
Environment
- Apartment is fine.
- Fairly active indoors.
Exercise
- Daily moderate to extended exercise.
Grooming
- Regular professional grooming is recommended.
- Little to no shedding.
- Little to no odor.
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Komondor
A large, muscular breed, the Komondor is mostly known for its unusually dense, protective coat of heavy white cords (which make him look like a giant mop!) that form naturally as the breed matures in age. The coat serves to cover vulnerable body parts in case of attack, helps him blend in with his flock, and protects him from weather extremes. While he has been a working dog in Hungary for ten centuries, he is also found in the show and obedience rings in the United States.
History
The breed was developed in Hungary to guard large herds of sheep and cattle on the plains. The Komondor is an almost direct descendent of the Aftscharka, which the Huns found on the southern steppes when they passed through Russia. Rather than being used to round up herds or flocks, the breed typically accompanies the animals they are in charge of to act in the role of protector, mostly without assistance or commands from their master.
Temperament
Known for its dignity, strength, and courage, the Komondor is generally reserved and serious with strangers but demonstrative with those he loves. Owners should be willing to provide daily exercise and obedience training. Caring for the Komondor coat takes quite a bit of time and effort, so it's best to learn how to care for the cords from an experienced owner or breeder.
- Working Group; AKC recognized in 1937.
- Ranging in size from 25 inches tall at the shoulder and up and 80 pounds and up.
- Livestock guard dog.
Environment
- Apartment is ok.
- All weather.
- Loves a large yard.
Exercise
- Daily extended exercise.
- Love to work and train.
Grooming
- No brushing.
- Frequent bathing.
- Little to no shedding.
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Japanese Chin
The Japanese Chin is a sensitive and intelligent breed whose only purpose is to serve man as a companion. Agile and playful, they can be taught to perform tricks and like to show off to an audience of friends. Their coat varies in size and length, but most are white with black markings. They can also be white and red.
History
The Japanese Chin's origin and development in its native land of China is wrapped in royalty and adoration. They were bred for the sole purpose of accompanying the ladies of the Imperial Palace and warming the laps of Chinese aristocracy. There are illustrations on ancient pottery and embroideries that are centuries old, and evidence suggests that one could not purchase a Chin they were kept in the hands of the nobility and frequently given as gifts of esteem to diplomats and to foreigners who rendered some outstanding service to Japan.
Temperament
The Japanese Chin is a bright, alert, and playful breed. An affectionate and devoted family companion, this breed loves everyone it is familiar with, but may be reserved around strangers and in unfamiliar situations. Their small size makes them ideal for an apartment, but they still enjoy the opportunity to play in an open yard. Their silky and flowing coat requires twice-weekly brushing.
- Toy Group; AKC recognized in 1888.
- Ranging from 8 to 11 inches tall at the shoulder.
- Companion dog.
Environment
- Apartment is fine.
- Moderately active indoors.
- Thrives in moderate climates.
Exercise
- Daily light exercise.
Grooming
- Regular combing and brushing.
- Average shedding.
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Keeshond
A medium-sized, sturdy dog, the Keeshond possesses the characteristics of other Northern breeds a fox-like expression, stand-off coat, and richly plumed tail carried over the back. His coloring is a mixture of gray, black, and cream, with variations from light to dark and distinctive “spectacles” markings and shadings in the eye area, including a delicate, dark line slanting from eye to ear and expressive eyebrows.
History
Basically unchanged over the past two centuries, the Keeshond descended from the same arctic strains as the Samoyed, Chow Chow, Norwegian Elkhound, Finnish Spitz, and Pomeranian. The Kees was originally served as a watchdog on riverboats, barges, and farms. Especially popular in Holland in the late 1700s, the breed also became a symbol of the Dutch Patriot political party and its leader Kees de Gyselaer, who owned a dog named Kees and gave the breed its name. When the Patriots were defeated, the Keeshond became rare in Holland until it was revived a century later, when it also began appearing in England and America.
Temperament
An affectionate, good-natured companion, the Keeshond is outgoing and friendly with people and dogs, following the lead of their owners when welcoming strangers. The breed learns quickly and is energetic, requiring daily exercise. Twice-weekly brushing is sufficient.
- Non-Sporting Group; AKC recognized in 1930.
- Ideal size: 17 to 18 inches tall at the shoulder.
- Barge dog; companion.
Environment
- Apartment is ok.
- thrive in cooler climates.
Exercise
- Daily moderate exercise.
Grooming
- Daily brushing and combing.
- Bathe only when necessary.
- Heavy seasonal shedding.
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Irish Wolfhound
An Irish Wolfhound must be “of great size and commanding appearance.” He has a large, muscular greyhound-like shape, and he is the tallest of dogs, but not the heaviest. A superb athlete and an endurance runner, an old Irish proverb describes him perfectly: “Gentle when stroked, fierce when provoked.” The breed's recognized colors are gray, brindle, red, black, pure white, fawn, and others.
History
One of the earliest recorded references to Irish Wolfhounds is in Roman records dating to 391 A.D. Often used as royal gifts, they hunted with their masters, fought beside them in battle, guarded their castles, played with their children, and lay quietly by the fire as family friends. They were fierce hunters of wolves and the oversized Irish elk, so good that their prey disappeared from Ireland and the hounds fell upon hard times. By the 19th Century, there were few IWs left in Ireland.
Temperament
Although now primarily a family companion, the Irish Wolfhound will still instinctively give chase to fleeing prey. His large size commands more room, more exercise, and a bigger car. The breed's harsh, natural coat requires regular brushing.
- Hound Group; AKC recognized in 1897.
- Ideal size ranges from 30 to 34 inches tall at the shoulder.
- Irish elk/wolf hunter, family companion.
Environment
- Apartments? Not so much.
- Low activity indoors.
Exercise
- Moderate daily exercise.
Grooming
- Regular brushing.
- Regular professional grooming recommended.
- Average shedding.
