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Dogue de Bordeaux
A powerful and muscular French Mastiff breed, the Dogue de Bordeaux is a molluscoid (mastiff-type dog), “dogue” meaning Mastiff in French. A massive head and stocky body are trademarks of the breed. Americans became aware of the Dogue de Bordeaux when he appeared as drooling, messy “Hooch” in the 1989 Tom Hanks' film, Turner and Hooch. The breed's short, fine coat is fawn-colored, ranging from a dark red to a light fawn.
History
The Dogue de Bordeaux's history is a mystery different theories link him to the Bullmastiff, Bulldog, Tibetan Mastiff, and the ancient Dogues de Bordeuax of Aquitaine. In any case, the Dogue de Bordeaux has been used as a guardian, hunter, and fighter. They were trained to bait bulls, bears, and jaguars, hunt boars, herd cattle and protect the homes and businesses of their masters.
Temperament
The Dogue de Bordeaux possesses an instinct for guarding, which he does with vigilance and courage, but without aggressiveness. He is an excellent companion affectionate and attached to his family with a patient, calm temperament. Their short coat is easy to care for and they require moderate daily exercise. New owners should be prepared to deal with drool!
- Working Group; AKC recognized in 2008.
- Ranging in size from 23 to 27 inches tall at the shoulder and at least 99 pounds.
- Guardian; hunter.
Environment
- Apartment is ok.
- Low activity indoors.
Exercise
- Daily moderate exercise.
Grooming
- Easy care.
- Average shedding.
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English Cocker Spaniel
An active sporting dog, the English Cocker Spaniel's compact, solid body practically vibrates with energy and enthusiasm, particularly when at work in the field. Although known for its soft, melting spaniel expression, the breed is a tough worker, capable of covering ground effortlessly and penetrating the densest of cover. His coat can be solid-colored (black, liver, or shades of red) or parti-colored, including ticking or roaning.
History
One of the oldest types of land spaniel known, the Cocker descended from the original spaniels of Spain. They were used to hunt in dense cover, flushing and retrieving game. In 1935, The English Cocker Spaniel Club of America was formed in the United States to promote the interest of the English Cocker and differentiate it from the American-type Cocker that was emerging. The English Cocker was recognized as separate from the American Cocker Spaniel by the AKC in 1946.
Temperament
Merry and affectionate, the English Cocker Spaniel is an excellent family companion due to its even disposition and trainability. Whether working in the field or at home lounging on their owner's bed, their tails rarely stop wagging. The breed can live in any environment provided it receives daily exercise. Their medium-long coat does take some care, including brushing and regular stripping or clipping.
- Sporting Group; AKC recognized in 1946.
- Ranging in size from 15 to 17 inches tall at the shoulder and 26 to 34 pounds.
- Hunting dog.
Environment
- Apartment is ok.
- Average size yard is fine.
Exercise
- Extended daily exercise.
Grooming
- Daily brushing.
- Regular grooming and trimming.
- Average shedding.
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Dandie Dinmont Terrier
The Dandie Dinmont Terrier is characterized by his long, low body and “scimitar” tail, which looks like a curved sword, as well as his large soulful eyes and fluffy head of hair. Though small in stature, the Dandie has the character of a big dog, possessing confidence, intelligence, and independent nature. The breed's allowable coat colors are described as “pepper” and “mustard.”
History
The Dandie Dinmont was first recorded as a distinct breed around 1700 and has been popular with both gypsies and the wealthy at various points in his history. Originally bred to go to ground, he was well known for his skill in catching otter and badgers. Dandies were made famous when Sir Walter Scott wrote about them in Guy Mannering in 1814. Scott's farmer character was named Dandie Dinmont, after whom the breed was soon named.
Temperament
As a companion, the Dandie Dinmont is affectionate towards his family, but it would not be uncharacteristic for a Dandie to show little interest in a stranger. The breed would do well in a rural or urban setting with daily walks. The Dandie does not shed, but his coat must be stripped about twice a year and brushed daily.
- Terrier Group; AKC recognized in 1886.
- Ranging in size from 8 to 10 inches tall at the shoulder and 18 to 24 pounds.
- Vermin hunter.
Environment
- Apartment is fine.
- Fairly active indoors.
Exercise
- Daily moderate exercise.
Grooming
- Regular brushing.
- Professional grooming recommended.
- Little to no shedding.
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Doberman Pinscher
A square, medium-sized dog, the Doberman Pinscher is muscular and possesses great endurance and speed. He is elegant in appearance and reflects great nobility and temperament. The properly bred and trained Doberman has proved itself to be a friend and guardian, and his intelligence and ability to absorb and retain training have brought him into demand as a police and war dog. The Doberman's short, hard coat can be black, red, blue, and fawn.
History
Although the roots of the breed are relatively obscure, it is thought that the Doberman Pinscher originated in Germany around 1900, taking its name from tax collector Louis Doberman of Apolda, who desired a medium-size dog to perform as a guard dog as well as companion. Breeds utilized to develop the Doberman Pinscher may have included the old shorthaired shepherd, Rottweiler, Black and Tan Terrier, and the German Pinscher.
Temperament
The Doberman Pinscher is known to be energetic, watchful, fearless, and obedient. He is ready to give prompt alarm (and back up that warning) but is also affectionate, obedient, and loyal. The breed requires regular exercise but needs only minimal grooming for his short coat.
- Working Group; AKC recognized in 1908.
- Ranging in size from 24 to 28 inches tall at the shoulder.
- Guardian, family companion.
Environment
- Apartment is ok.
- Moderate activity indoors.
- Do not tolerate cold climates.
Exercise
- Daily long walk or vigorous exercise.
Grooming
- Easy care.
- Average shedding.
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Coton De Tulear
Coton De Tulear is the French word for Cotton. Like the name suggests the most conspicuous feature of the Coton De Tulear is its coat, which is cottony or fluffy rather than silky. It has a long topcoat. The fluffy hair covers the thin, lightly-muscled forelegs. Colors come in white ” black and white and tri-colored. (White is preferred by show breeders.) Some have slightly yellowish markings on the ears.
Temperament
This is a typical bichon-type dog. Very friendly, gentle, affectionate, and alert. Cotons are very sociable dogs that get along well with children, other dogs, and animals. Very attached to its home and master – wanting always to be in their presence and trying its best to please. The Coton makes a great watchdog. Full of tricks and surprises to fulfill his master's every wish. One of their most endearing traits is a tendency to jump and walk on their hind legs. Their teasing expressions enhance any home willing to spend a few moments a day in the necessary play and grooming routines. The Coton learns quite quickly but can be a little bit stubborn without the proper leadership. They are intelligent and eager to work. Make sure you are this dog's firm, confident, consistent pack leader to avoid Small Dog Syndrome, human-induced behavior problems. Always remember, dogs are canines, not humans. Be sure to meet their natural instincts as animals.
- Height, Weight
- Height: 10-12 inches (25-30 cm.)
- Weight: 12-15 pounds (5.5-7 kg.)
Environment
- Apartment is fine.
- Fairly active indoors.
Exercise
- Daily moderate exercise.
- Love agility.
Grooming
- Daily brushing.
- Professional grooming recommended.
- Little to no shedding.
- Easy on allergy sufferers.
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Curly-Coated Retriever
Distinguished by its coat of small, tight, water-resistant, crisp curls, the Curly-Coated Retriever is a strong, robust, and agile breed. Developed to be a multi-purpose hunting retriever, the Curly will work for as long as there is work to be done, retrieving game in the heaviest of cover and iciest of waters. The breed's curly coat can be black or liver in color.
History
Although the Curly's origins are unclear, he is one of the oldest of all retriever breeds, thought to have descended from the English Water Spaniel, the St. John's Newfoundland, the retrieving setter, and the Poodle. Developed in England as both a waterfowl retriever and upland game hunter, this breed was a favorite of English gamekeepers for his innate field ability, courage, and perseverance.
Temperament
An energetic and intelligent dog, the Curly-Coated Retriever is an excellent companion but requires training and daily exercise or a job to keep him from becoming bored and destructive. One of the more independent retriever breeds, the Curly may appear somewhat aloof, but is always willing to please. Their coat is easy to care for, requiring only occasional bathing.
- Sporting Group; AKC recognized in 1924.
- Ranging in size from 23 to 27 inches tall at the shoulder.
- Water dog; retriever.
Environment
- Apartment? Not so much.
- Love a large yard.
- Low activity indoors.
Exercise
- Lots of exercise.
- Love to swim.
Grooming
- Easy care.
- Infrequent brushing.
- Average shedding.
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Chinese Crested
A fine-boned, elegant toy dog that craves human companionship, the Crested comes in two varieties. The Hairless has soft, silky hair on its head (crest), tail (plume), and feet (socks). Wherever the body is hairless the skin is soft and smooth. The Powderpuff is entirely covered with a double soft, straight coat. The two types often come from the same litter. Any color or combination of colors is allowed.
History
It is believed that Chinese mariners sailed with this breed believed to have evolved from African hairless dogs on board. During the time of the Chinese plagues, hairless dogs were stowed aboard ships to hunt vermin. By the mid-nineteenth century, Cresteds began appearing in European art, and entries of the breed in American dog shows began in the late 1800s.
Temperament
The Crested is prone to more frequent skin irritations, allergies, and sunburn than a coated dog would experience, and its owner should always take precautions to prevent this. Although no dog is truly ‰Ычhypoallergenic,' Cresteds shed little to no hair and are on AKC's list of breeds recommended for those with allergies. They are also alert and playful companions and do well in families with gentle children.
- Toy Group; AKC recognized in 1991.
- Ideal size is 11 to 13 inches tall at the shoulder.
- Companion; ratter.
Environment
- Apartment is fine.
- Fairly active indoors.
- Do not tolerate cold.
- Be careful in direct sunlight.
Exercise
- Daily light walk.
- Love to play.
Grooming
- Daily careful brushing.
- May need skin moisturizing.
- Easy on allergy sufferers.
- Little to no shedding.
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Cockalier
The Cockalier is a cross between the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel and the Cocker Spaniel. 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.
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Cavachon
The Cavachon is not a pure breed. Rather, it's a “designer dog” combination of Bichon Frise and King Charles Spaniel. The result is a sweet-tempered, fuzzy ball of fluff that can make a lovely companion for the right person.
Size
Cavachons are small dogs, which makes them a nice choice for people who live in small apartments or houses, as well as for people who travel extensively in recreational vehicles. When fully grown, these dogs tend to range in height from 12 inches to 13 inches.
Coat
Cavachons tend to have soft, silky coats with slight waves. Standard colors include:
- White
- Apricot and white
- White with black or black and tan markings
Temperament
If you're looking for an aggressive guard dog, this designer combination is definitely not the right choice for you. Rather than being aggressive, Cavachons are quite the opposite. They are gentle, accepting and tolerant (for the most part). This makes them a good pet option for families with children, as well as for households where there are other pets.
Exercise
Cavachons are generally energetic, but not hyperactive. Moderate daily exercise is usually enough to help them burn off some of their excess energy. A daily walk and a game of fetch or some other activity will provide some mental stimulation as well.
Attention Needs
Cavachons tend to be cute, friendly animals that can make excellent companion animals for the right person or family. They have loving personalities and form close bonds with their human companions. They crave companionship and attention, and they like to be active. If you want a small pet that will be an affectionate and loyal sidekick, a Cavachon might fill the bill.
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Cock-A-Poo
The Cockapoo is a cross between the Cocker Spaniel 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 of these designer hybrid dogs being bred are 50% purebred to 50% purebred. It is very common for breeders to breed multi-generation crosses. Note: some Cockapoo clubs are working towards making the Cockapoo a purebred dog by multi-generation crossing, while other breeders are sticking to the basic Poodle / Cocker mix stating they wish to preserve the heterosis effect in the hybrid mix. Ask the breeder you contact which type of Cockapoo they are breeding.
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Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is an elegant, energetic toy breed that is compatible for city or country life. Successful in conformation shows, obedience, and agility, they also make wonderful therapy dogs due to their sweet, gentle natures. The breed also became a TV star when featured on “Sex and the City” as Charlotte York's dog. Their silky coats come in four colors Blenheim (chestnut and white), Tricolor (black, white, and tan), Ruby (solid red), and Black and Tan.
History
For centuries, the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel (a namesake of King Charles II of Britain) has been recorded in paintings and tapestries together with their aristocratic families. It is obvious from these works of art that Cavaliers were a luxury item and lived “the easy life” as housepets. Though used successfully for shooting small game, the Cavalier's true purpose has always been that of companion.
Temperament
Friendly and easy to train, the Cavalier is a trustworthy companion for children and thrives as part of a family. The coat requires weekly brushing, but no trimming. The breed is adaptable in their need for exercise, happy with either sleeping on the couch or taking long walks.
- Toy Group; AKC recognized in 1995.
- Average size: 12 to 13 inches tall at the shoulder and between 13 and 18 pounds.
- Companion.
Environment
- Apartment is fine.
- Somewhat active indoors.
- Be careful in hot climates.
Exercise
- Daily walk is fine.
Grooming
- Regular grooming recommended.
- Average shedding.
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Chesapeake Bay Retriever
Developed along the Chesapeake Bay and named the state dog of Maryland, the Chesapeake Bay Retriever is a truly American sporting breed and the toughest water retriever. He is a strong, powerfully built medium-sized breed with yellowish or amber eyes and a distinctive coat – a short, harsh, wavy outercoat with a dense fine wooly undercoat. His color can be brown, sedge, or dead grass and must be as close to that of his working surroundings as possible.
History
In 1807, an English brig shipwrecked off the coast of Maryland, and two Newfoundlands were rescued from the cargo. When bred to local retrievers, including the English Otter Hound, Flat-Coat, and Curly-Coated Retriever, the “Chessie” type developed. Bred to work on land and water, the Chesapeake Bay Retriever originally hunted waterfowl in rough and icy waters, often retrieving several hundred birds per day.
Temperament
The Chesapeake is a happy and intelligent breed whose courage, working ability, and love of water mesh best with active, outdoor-loving families. His coat is short, but owners must brush and maintain it regularly, as both the outercoat and undercoat contain oils for protection in harsh conditions.
- Sporting Group; AKC recognized in 1878.
- Average size: 55 to 80 pounds and 21 to 26 inches tall at the shoulder.
- Water dog; Retriever.
Environment
- Apartment? Not so much.
- Low activity indoors.
- Love large yard.
- All weather.
Exercise
- Daily vigorous exercise.
- Love to swim.
Grooming
- Daily brushing.
- Infrequent bathing.
- Average shedding.
- Distinct scent is normal.
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Cane Corso
Noble, majestic, and powerful in presence, the Cane Corso is a muscular and large-boned breed. One of two native Italian “mastiff type” dogs that descended from the Roman canis Pugnaces, the breed's name derives from the Latin “Cohors” which means “Guardian” and “Protector.”
The breed's coat is short but not smooth (like the coat of a cow), very coarse and thick in order to be perfectly waterproof. It can be black, gray, fawn, or red, with brindle variations and a black or gray mask also acceptable. Make no mistake: This is a whole lot of dog, both physically and temperamentally. They're smart, trainable, eager to please, versatile, and docile, and intensely loyal with their humans, especially children.
History
The Cane Corso is a native of Italy, where they played watchdog and hunted wild boar. Prior to 1988, the Cane Corso was known only in southern Italy, and was considered very rare, but has still been featured in many paintings throughout Italy's history.
Temperament
The Cane Corso is easily trained because of its extreme intelligence. As a large and athletic breed, they need a lot of exercise. They are affectionate to their owner and bond closely with children and family. Cane Corsos are light shedders, which make grooming simple all they need is an occasional brushing.
- Working Group; AKC recognized in 2010.
- Ranging in size from 23 to 27 inches tall at the shoulder.
- Property watchdog; large-game hunter.
Exercise
- Moderate daily exercise is fine.
- Very powerful.
Grooming
- Easy care.
- Occasional brushing.
- Light shedding.
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Cardigan Welsh Corgi
Known as the Corgi with the tail, the Cardigan Welsh Corgi is the older of the two Corgi breeds. Like the Pembroke Welsh Corgi, the Cardigan is low set with moderately heavy bone and a deep chest. Originally used as a drover and farm dog, the breed is small and powerful, capable of great speed and endurance. Coat colors include red, sable, brindle, black and blue merle. White markings are common.
History
The Cardigan first arrived in Cardiganshire (its place of origin) with the Celts in 1200 BC. The breed became useful because the Crown-owned practically all land, and the tenant farmers were permitted to fence off only a few acres surrounding their dooryards. The rest was common land, on which the crofter was permitted to graze his cattle. Instead of herding the cattle, the Corgi would nip at their heels and drive them as far afield as desired.
Temperament
The Cardigan can adapt to country life or city apartments but need some form of daily exercise. As a companion dog, they love to be with their people and are loyal, affectionate, and even-tempered. The breed's double coat requires regular brushing.
- Herding Group; AKC recognized in 1935.
- Ranging in size from 10.5 to 12.5 inches tall at the shoulder and 25 to 38 pounds.
- Cattle dog; all-purpose farm dog.
Environment
- Apartment is fine.
- Fairly active indoors.
Exercise
- Daily moderate to extended exercise.
Grooming
- Easy care.
- Daily light brushing.
- Seasonal shedding.
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Bull Terrier
Playful and clownish, the Bull Terrier is best described as a three-year-old child in a dog suit. Given his muscular build, the Bull Terrier can appear unapproachable, but he is an exceedingly friendly dog, with a sweet and fun-loving disposition and popular in the obedience, agility, and show rings. The Bull Terrier can be all white (markings on the head are permissible) or colored.
History
Bulldog-terrier crosses, of various sizes and colors, became popular as sporting dogs in the early 1800s. Around 1860, English dog dealer James Hinks developed a more refined version of these crosses, distinguished by its all-white coat. These dogs soon established themselves as a new breed the Bull Terrier. In Hinks' day, they were often referred to as White Cavaliers. In the early 1900s, Bull Terriers were back-crossed with brindle Staffordshires to produce a colored variety.
Temperament
Bull Terriers become very attached to their owners and families and do not thrive when left alone. The breed loves children, but obedience training is necessary and care must be taken that they don't get overstimulated around younger children. Their short coats are easy to care for, but the breed requires daily exercise.
- Terrier Group; AKC recognized in 1885.
- No size standard, but most stand 21 to 22 inches tall at the shoulder and weigh 50-70 pounds.
- Game sports.
Environment
- Apartment is ok.
- Active indoors.
- Love warm climates.
Exercise
- Moderate to extended daily exercise.
- vigorous play activities.
Grooming
- Very easy care.
- Occasional brushing.
- Average shedding.
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Bullmastiff
The Bullmastiff is a strong and powerfully built animal that possesses great intelligence and a willingness to please, making them ideal family companions and protectors. Although large, the breed remains both agile and active and is successful in conformation, obedience, agility, tracking, carting, and therapy work. The Bullmastiff's coat may be red, fawn, or brindle.
History
The Bullmastiff's known history in England begins around 1860 when they were developed to keep large estates and game preserves free of poachers. Gamekeepers needed a dog that could track quietly, cover short distances quickly and pin and hold poachers without mauling them. The foundation breeding was 60% Mastiff and 40% Bulldog. Breeders were hoping to create a dog faster and more aggressive than the Mastiff, yet bigger than and not as ferocious as the Bulldog.
Temperament
The Bullmastiff is fearless and confident, yet remains docile and sweet-natured with his family. They are natural guardians of the home because they do not bark much, as silence was a virtue when guarding estates. Bullmastiffs are independent thinkers and may not respond to traditional obedience training. The breed does not require much exercise or grooming and can live happily in a house or apartment. They are great with children and other dogs.
- Working Group; AKC recognized in 1934.
- Ranging in size from 24 to 27 inches tall at the shoulder and 100 to 130 pounds.
- Guard dog.
Environment
- Apartment is ok.
- Low activity indoors.
- Thrive in moderate climates.
Exercise
- Daily short to moderate walks.
Grooming
- Occasional brushing.
- Little shedding.
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Brittany
The Brittany is a medium-sized, leggy, dual-purpose dog, equally suited for sport and companionship. According to AKC Registration Statistics, it has surged in popularity in the last 50 years due to its talents as both a hunting and show dog. Originally called the Brittany Spaniel, it is now referred to simply as the Brittany, as its hunting style more closely resembles that of pointing breeds. Its dense, flat or wavy coat can be orange and white or liver and white in either clear or roan patterns.
History
The Brittany was named for the French province where it originated, but records of its development are largely lost. There is a great deal of resemblance between the Brittany and Welsh Springer Spaniel, which leads many people to believe that the two breeds share the same ancestors. It is possible that native Brittany spaniels mated with English pointing dogs around 1900, intensifying their hunting prowess in the process.
Temperament
The Brittany is strong, quick and agile, requiring exercise and activity to occupy his body and mind. He is a happy and alert dog who possesses a willing attitude. Regular brushing is important, but their shorter coats need minimal maintenance.
- Sporting Group; AKC recognized in 1934.
- Average size: 30 to 40 pounds and 17 to 20 inches at the shoulder.
- Bird dog, companion.
Environment
- Apartment? Not so much.
- Very active indoors.
- All-weather.
Exercise
- Extended daily exercise.
- High energy.
Grooming
- Regular brushing.
- Light shedding.
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Brussels Griffon
The intelligent and cheerful Brussels Griffon has a terrier-like disposition and is known for his almost human expression. This affectionate breed comes in a variety of colors, including red, beige (black and reddish-brown), black and tan, or black. This breed makes a good watchdog and can be taught to perform a variety of tricks. A Brussels Griffon was featured in 1997's hit, “As Good As It Gets”, starring Jack Nicholson and Helen Hunt.
History
Developed in Belgium, the Brussels was developed from primarily the Affenpinscher and the Belgian street dog a dog similar to the Fox Terrier, except heavier. Brussels Griffons were often kept in stables as rat catchers. Gradually they became regular members of most Belgian households. Old folk songs and tales of the period mention “bearded dogs” in reference to the spunky Brussels Griffon.
Temperament
The affectionate, charming and curious personality of the Brussels Griffon makes it a good companion dog. However, this breed is not typical of the “pampered pet” stereotype of Toy breeds. Their active indoor lifestyle and small size make them ideal for apartment life, but they still need to be taken for daily walks. The breed can have either a rough or smooth coat. Each coat needs twice-weekly brushing and shaping every three months.
- Toy Group; AKC recognized in 1910.
- Ranging in size from 8 to 10 pounds; not to exceed 12 pounds.
- Companion dog, watchdog.
Environment
- Apartment is fine.
- Moderate to high indoor activity.
Exercise
- Moderate daily exercise.
Grooming
- Regular grooming recommended.
- Little to no shedding.
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Bouvier des Flandres
Rugged, agile, and even-tempered, the Bouvier des Flandres makes an ideal farm dog. He often tests his working skills in AKC herding tests and trials, and can also be found at agility, tracking, obedience, and conformation events. The breed's double coat protects him from harsh weather and can range in color from fawn to black, passing through salt and pepper, gray, and brindle.
History
The Bouvier originated in Belgium and most of the early breeders were farmers, butchers, or cattle merchants not particularly interested in breeding pedigreed dogs. All they wanted was help in their work. The first Bouviers were not absolutely uniform in size, weight, and color, but nevertheless, they all had enough characteristics in common to be recognized as Bouviers. Many had different names Vuilbaard (dirty beard), koehond (cow dog), and toucheur de boeuf or pic (cattle driver).
Temperament
Steady, resolute, and fearless, the Bouvier des Flandres serves as a family friend and guardian. While this breed is not overly active in the house he does need plenty of exercises, so country and suburban living suit him well. The Bouvier should be brushed weekly to remove dead hair in the coat and prevent matting. A large breed, he should always be supervised around children and other animals.
- Herding Group; AKC recognized in 1931.
- Ranging in size from 23 to 27 inches tall at the shoulder.
- Cattle herder; farm dog.
Environment
- Apartment is ok.
- Low activity indoors.
- Love a large yard.
Exercise
- Moderate daily exercise.
Grooming
- Regular professional grooming recommended.
- Regular brushing.
- Low shedding.
- Can be easy on allergy sufferers.
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Briard
Rigorous and alert, this powerful and agile breed is a native of France. A working animal, the breed's most common job has been herding, but their acute sense of hearing also makes them an excellent watchdog. The Briard's long, luxurious coat can be any solid color except white; they are usually black, gray, or tawny.
History
Centuries-old and beloved by the French since the Middle Ages, the Briard has been depicted in 8th-century tapestries and mentioned in records of the 12th century. In early times, Briards were used to defend their charges against wolves and poachers. After the French Revolution, the Briard's work gradually transformed into the more peaceful tasks of herding the flocks and guarding their masters' property. In America, the Briard's history is not well documented some credit the Marquis de Lafayette with introducing the breed, but Thomas Jefferson also brought representatives of the breed to this continent.
Temperament
The Briard is happiest leading a busy, active life. This breed is an independent thinker, so patience is necessary when training. Like many sheepdogs, this breed may be wary of strangers. However, the Briard is very sensitive to his family's feelings and makes an excellent pet if time and effort are put into raising him. Grooming wise, the breed's coat needs brushing every day to prevent mats.
- Herding Group; AKC recognized in 1928.
- Ranging in size from 22 to 27 inches tall at the shoulder.
- Sheepherder; livestock guardian.
Environment
- Apartment is fine.
- Moderately active indoors.
- Average to large yard.
Exercise
- Moderate daily exercise.
- Love to learn and train.
Grooming
- Regular professional grooming is recommended.
- Light shedding.
