The Dog Encyclopedia (VetBooks - Ir)

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The document provides details about the contents and structure of a dog encyclopedia, including sections on breeds, care and training, and images of dogs in various contexts.

The book is a dog encyclopedia that covers information on primitive dogs, working dogs, spitz-type dogs, sight hounds, scent hounds, terriers, gundogs, companion dogs, and crossbreeds. It also includes sections on care and training.

Publishing details provided include the publisher as DK Publishing in New York, copyright information, ISBN number, and notes on bulk purchasing. It is printed in China by South China Printing Company.

THE DEFINITIVE VISUAL GUIDE

DOG
THE

ENCYCLOPEDIA

DOG
THE

ENCYCLOPEDIA

LONDON, NEW YORK, MELBOURNE,


MUNICH, AND DELHI
DORLING KINDERSLEY
Senior Editor Kathryn Hennessy
Project Art Editor Amy Orsborne
Editorial Assistant Alexandra Beeden
US Senior Editor Rebecca Warren
US Editors Kate Johnsen, Margaret Parrish
Jacket Designer Laura Brim
Jacket Editor Manisha Majithia
Jacket Design Development Manager Sophia Tampakopoulos
Producer, Pre-Production Adam Stoneham
Producer Gemma Sharpe
Photographer Tracy Morgan
Managing Art Editor Karen Self
Managing Editor Esther Ripley
Publisher Sarah Larter
Art Director Phil Ormerod
Associate Publishing Director Liz Wheeler
Publishing Director Jonathan Metcalf
Consultant Editor Kim Dennis-Bryan
Contributors Ann Baggaley, Katie John
DK INDIA
Senior Editor Monica Saigal
Senior Art Editors Chhaya Sajwan, Ranjita Bhattacharji
Editors Antara Moitra, Suparna Sengupta
Art Editors Devan Das, Supriya Mahajan, Pooja Pawwar, Pooja Pipil, Neha
Sharma, Priyanka Singh, Amit Varma
Assistant Editor Archana Ramachandran
Assistant Art Editors Payal Rosalind Malik, Ankita Mukherjee,
Astha Singh, Dhirendra Singh
Managing Editor Pakshalika Jayaprakash
Managing Art Editor Arunesh Talapatra
Senior DTP Designer Jagtar Singh
DTP Designers Arvind Kumar, Sachin Singh, Mohammad Usman, Tanveer
Abbas Zaidi
Pre-production Manager Balwant Singh
Picture Research Surya Sankash Sarangi
First American Edition, 2013
Published in the United States by DK Publishing, 375 Hudson Street,
New York, New York 10014
10 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1
001 185332 Jul/13

CONTENTS
INTRODUCTION
TO DOGS

Evolution of the dog

Skeleton and muscle

10

Senses

12

Circulatory and digestive systems

14

Urinary, reproductive, and hormonal systems

16

Skin and coat

18

Dogs in religion, myth, and culture

20

Dogs in art and advertising

22

Dogs in sports and service

24

Copyright 2013 Dorling Kindersley Limited


All rights reserved
Without limiting the rights under copyright reserved above, no part of this
publication may be reproduced, stored in or introduced into a retrieval system, or
transmitted, in any form, or by any means (electronic, mechanical, photocopying,
recording, or otherwise), without the prior written permission of both the copyright
owner and the above publisher of this book.
Published in Great Britain by Dorling Kindersley Limited.
A catalog record for this book is available from the Library of Congress.
ISBN: 978-1-4654-0844-0
DK books are available at special discounts when purchased in bulk for sales,
promotion, premiums, fund-raising, or educational use. For details, contact: DK
Publishing Special Markets, 375 Hudson Street, New York, New York 10014 or
[email protected].
Printed and bound in China by South China printing company.
Discover more at

GUIDE TO
BREEDS

Primitive dogs

28

Working dogs

38

Spitz-type dogs

98

Sight hounds

124

Scent hounds

138

Terriers

184

Gundogs

220

Companion dogs

264

Crossbreeds

288

www.dk.com

Disclaimer
Every effort has been made to ensure that the information in this book is accurate.
Neither the publishers or the authors accept any legal responsibility for any personal
injury or injuries to dogs or other damage or loss arising from the undertaking of any
of the activities or exercises presented in this book, or from the reliance on any
advice in this book. If your dog is ill or has behavioral problems, please seek the
advice of a qualied professional, such as a vet or behavioral expert.

CARE AND
TRAINING

Becoming a dog owner

304

Bringing your dog home

306

At home and away

308

A balanced diet

310

Changing diets

312

Monitoring feeding levels

314

Exercise

316

Grooming

318

Grooming checks

320

Being in charge

322

Basic training

324

Behavioral problems

330

Visiting the vet

332

Signs of health

334

Inherited disorders

336

Parasites

338

Nursing a sick dog

340

First aid

342

Breeding

346

GLOSSARY

348

INDEX

350

ACKNOWLEDGMENTS

360

INTRODUCTION
TO DOGS

CHAPTER 1

ALL ABOUT DOGS | E VOLUTION OF THE DOG

Evolution of the dog


There are an estimated 500 million domestic dogs worldwide, and all of them are related. At the
base of their evolutionary tree stands the gray wolf, from which every type and breed of dog has
descended. As geneticists have discovered, in terms of DNA, the difference between wolf and
dog is innitesimal. While natural selection has produced some of the changes that make one
type of dog different from another, the effect of human inuence has been far greater.
It could be said that of the hundreds of modern dogs known today, all of them are man-made.

DAWN OF THE DOG


The history of the dog, and its transformation
from wolf to domestic companion, goes back
deep in prehistory, to the settlements of early
hunter-gatherer peoples. In these primitive
communities, wolves would scavenge among
the litter around the camp site and were a
useful source of hides and meat. The wolves
might also, inadvertently, raise the alarm
should an intruder or outsider approach the
camp. Just why people rst brought wolves
into the domestic circle can perhaps be partly
explained by the fact that humans in general
seem programmed to adopt animals, either as
playmates or status symbols. Possibly
a small furry wolf cub appealed to our
ancestors as much as it would to anyone
today. Being social animals, wolves that
became campside hangers-on may have
readily made the transition between bonding
with their pack and bonding with humans,
particularly if there were advantages in terms
of food and shelter.
As hunters themselves, early people would
have been familiar with the behavior of
wolves and appreciative of their persistence
and skill when working as a team to track and
bring down prey. Once tribespeople realized

that a tame wolf with a sharp nose and a


strong killing instinct would be an asset as a
hunting companion, the human
and dog partnership was born. If, as
seems likely, the most promising animals were
picked out for such use, this would
also have been the very beginning of a
selection process for desirable traits that
still continues among dog breeders today.
The domestication of wolves is not likely to
have occurred as an isolated incident, but
repeatedly at different times and in widely
separated regions. Archeological evidence of
dogs buried alongside humans has turned up
in areas as far apart as the Middle East
(thought to be possibly one of the original
sites of domestication), China, Germany,
Scandinavia, and North America. Until
Archeological evidence
Evidence, such as these 12,000-year-old skeletal
remains of a human and a dog (top right) found
in Israel, suggests that dogs may have been among
the rst animals to be domesticated.

Working together
Wolves live in packs cooperating with one another to hunt
and rear their young. This pack lifestyle made it relatively
easy for early humans to domesticate them. Instead of
bonding with other wolves, selected wolf cubs happily
adapted to living with a group of people.

recently the earliest of these remains was


dated at approximately 14,000 years old,
but the results of research into a fossilized
canine skull found in Siberia, published
in 2011, suggest that dogs were already
domesticated as long as 30,000 years ago.
Whenever and wherever it happened,
as wolves were domesticated, both their
appearance and temperament began to
change. New types of canid emerged,
and their diversity was increased by
crossbreeding between different dog
populations. Depending on availability
of food and climatic conditions, some
hunter-gatherer tribes were isolated for
generations, but others were migratory,
which meant that the dogs following at their
heels met and mated with others outside

E VOLUTION OF THE DOG

RELATIONSHIPS OF THE DOG FAMILY (CANIDS)

FOX

ETHIOPIAN WOLF

GOLDEN JACKAL

COYOTE

GRAY WOLF

DOG

This diagram shows the dogs relationship to other canids based on


genetic evidence. The dog and the gray wolf are the most closely
related ancestrally because their DNA is most similar and they share
many characteristics. The further away from the dog and the wolf
each canid is reects the fewer similarities in their shared DNA.

their clan. These early exchanges of


traits and characters laid the foundation
for the development of many different types
of dog, but thousands of years were still
to pass before anything like true breeds
were established.
MODERN BREEDS
Initially people began to develop distinct
types of dog for particular jobshounds
to hunt game, mastiffs to guard property,
and shepherd dogs to herd livestock. They
selectively bred these dogs to be physically
and temperamentally suited for their role
keen noses for hunting, long legs for racing,
strength and stamina for hard outdoor
work, and a strong protective instinct in
dogs needed for guard duties. Later came
the terriers and companion dogs. When
humans better understood the laws of
inheritance, and were able to manipulate
them, the process of change was greatly
accelerated. Then once dogs started to be
kept more for companionship and as pets
than for practical purposes, their appearance
began to take precedence over function.
Since the founding of the rst breed societies
in the late 19th century, rigorous standards
have been compiled for pedigree dogs.
These set out the ideal type, color, and
conformation for each breed, and cover

every imaginable point, from the set of the


ears on a spaniel to the distribution of spots
on a Dalmatian (see p.286).
The explosion in the variety of domestic
dogs has taken place over a relatively short
time, especially from the 20th century
onward. Modern dogs may sometimes seem
in danger of becoming fashion accessories, but
human interference has caused other, greater
concerns. Creating the right look has in
some breeds been to the detriment of the dogs
health. Flattened noses that cause breathing
problems, too-large heads in puppies leading
to whelping difculties, and over-long backs
combined with spinal disorders are just some
of the built-in faults that responsible breeders
now seek to mitigate. In the most recent
experiments, planned crosses between one

breed and another have produced a range of


novelty dogs that mix and match inherited
characteristics, such as the curly coat of
one parent and the biddable temperament
of the other.
Dogs have come a long way in appearance
and character since they were wolves, and
while people continue to desire the company
of canines, they are also likely to want to go
on changing them. In some breeds, most
obviously in dogs such as the husky types
and the German Shepherd (see p.42),
wolike characteristics still linger, in others
the original template has been altered out of
all recognition. An early hunter confronted
with, say, a Pekingese (see p.270), would
probably not realize at rst that he was
looking at a dog.

Varying looks
Many types of dog were established by the 1800s,
including the Saint Bernard and English Toy Spaniel seen
in this illustration. Until breed standards were established,
however, types continued to change.

INTRODUC TION TO DOGS | SKELE TON AND MUSCLE

Skeleton and muscle


All mammals have a skeleton that is stabilized and given mobility by ligaments, tendons, and
muscles. In dogs, this system evolved to serve their ancestral needs as fast-running carnivores.
However, once domesticated, humans created different dogs for different tasks and in doing so
altered their skeletons, too. Although some changes, such as dwarsm, result naturally from
mutations, deliberate selection has created most of the variety seen in modern breeds today.

SPECIALIZED SKELETON
Speed and agility are of prime importance
for a predator. The prey sets the pace and
direction of the chase and, for a successful
outcome, a hunting dog has to be ready to
move fast and turn within a split second.
Much of a dogs speed relies on an
extremely exible spine, which bends and
stretches easily with every stride. The
powerful hindquarters provide forward
propulsion, while adaptations to the forelegs
increase stride length. Traction is created by
the nonretractile claws, which act like the
running spikes on an athletes shoes.

As a quadruped, a dog has four weightbearing legs. The forelegs have no bony
attachment, like the human collarbone
(clavicle), and are connected to the body only
by muscles. This allows them to slide back
and forth over the rib cage, increasing stride
length. The long bones of the forelegsthe
radius and ulnat tightly together, unlike
the equivalent bones in the human forearm.
This is an essential adaptation in an animal
that may need to change direction rapidly
in pursuit of prey. The tight t prevents
rotation of the bones and reduces the risk
of fracture. For extra stability, some of the

Lumbar vertebrae with


forward-projecting lateral
spines that aid exibility

Thoracic vertebrae
articulate with ribs

small bones in the dogs wrist joint are fused


together, restricting rotation of the foot and
minimizing the likelihood of injury. For a
hunter, this is important, since injury will
reduce hunting success and in serious cases
would lead to starvation.
Dogs have a characteristic tiptoe gait.
There are four weight-bearing toes on each
foot and a vestigial dewclaw on the inside of

Orbit (eye socket)


opens posteriorly
to allow for powerful
jaw muscles
Jaw articulation with
restricted sideways
movement

Pelvis articulated to the


sacrum (three fused
vertebrae) of the spine

Neck (cervical)
vertebrae have wide
range of movement
Flexible tail
(coccygeal)
vertebrae

Scapula lacks bony


attachment to body

Rib cage protects


heart and lungs

Hock (heel) raised


off the ground
Patella

Ulna same length


as radius

Nonretractile claws prevent


slipping when running

10

Scaphoid and
lunar bones of
wrist are fused

Skeleton
A dogs shape is determined
by its skeleton, which can be
altered by selective breeding,
creating dogs of many shapes
and sizes. This dog skeleton is
typical of a medium-sized dog
with a mesaticephalic skull.

SKELE TON AND MUSCLE

SKULL SHAPES
The canine skull has three basic variations:
dolichocephalic (long and narrow); mesaticephalic
(wolike, being equally proportioned in terms of
cranium width and length of nasal cavity); and
brachycephalic (short and broad). The diversity
of skull shapes in the domestic dog is the result
of changes made to the original canine template
by selective breeding.

each front leg, equivalent to the human


thumb. However, in a few dogs, such as the
Tibetan Mastiff (see p.80) there are dewclaws
on the hind feet, too, while in others, such as
the Great Pyrenees (see p.78), there are double
dewclaws. The occurrence of extra toes is
known as polydactyly.
Bone size can be manipulated relatively
easily by selective breeding, so humans have
been able to alter the proportions of the
canine skeleton to create miniature or
outsize versions of dogs, from Chihuahuas
(see p.282) to Great Danes (see p.96).
Signicant changes have also been made to
the shape of the canine skull (see box above).
MUSCLE POWER
A dogs limbs are controlled mainly by
muscles in their upper parts. The lower legs
have more tendons than muscles, which
saves weight and reduces energy
expenditure. Very fast dogs, such as
Greyhounds (see p.126), have a high
proportion of what are known as fast
twitch muscle bers, which, because of the
way they obtain their energy, allow brief
bursts of great speed; in dogs built for
endurance, like huskies and retrievers,
slow twitch bers that keep them going
longer are more numerous.
A hunting dog not only needs to outrun
prey, but to seize and hold it. As in all
carnivores, the canine skull is modied for
the attachment of massive muscles that
operate the jaw and help to prevent it from
moving sideways, possibly even dislocating,
in the effort to grip a struggling victim.
Large neck muscles provide the strength

DOLICHOCEPHALIC HEAD
(SALUKI)

MESATICEPHALIC HEAD
(GERMAN SHORTHAIRED POINTER)

for lifting and carrying the kill.


The dog also makes use of more subtle
muscle power than humans do. Relying
a good deal on body language to
communicate with each other, a dog
constantly twitches with muscle activity:
curling a lip in a snarl, pricking up ears
to show attention, or wagging a tail as
a sign of welcome or conciliation.

BRACHYCEPHALIC HEAD
(BULLDOG)

Muscles that open jaw

Muscular sling
supports and
stabilizes foreleg
from below

Neck muscles control head


movements, which are important
in visual and auditory orientation,
and for grooming and predation
Powerful upper foreleg
muscles extend and
retract leg

Muscles in the tail


allow movement of the
tip or of the entire
lengthfor example,
when it is wagged

Forearm muscles
stabilize, protect,
support, and control
the paws and toes

Achilles tendon is
most prominent
tendon on
dogs body

Thin muscle
layer covers
abdomen

Lower limbs have little


muscle mass, only tendons
and ligaments

Muscles
All dogs have the same muscles. They allow a dog to move
and also play an important part in communication. Some
of the limb muscles act in antagonistic pairs, one
extending the leg and the other retracting it.

11

INTRODUC TION TO DOGS | SENSES

Senses
Dogs are very alert to their surroundings and highly responsive to sensory information. They
look and listen to interpret their surroundings, just as we do. Although we see things with
greater clarityexcept at night, when canine vision is an advantagedogs hear much more
and possess a superbly developed sense of smell. A dogs nose is his best asset and he relies on
it to provide him with a detailed account of the world.

SIGHT
Although dogs cannot see the range of color
that humans can, they do see some colors.
This limited range is because a dog only
has two types of color-responsive cells
(dichromatic vision) in the retinathe
light-sensitive layer at the back of the eye
instead of three (trichromatic vision) as
humans have. The canine world is viewed
in shades of gray, blue, and yellow, without
red, orange, or greenin much the same way
as a person with red-green color-blindness.
Dogs do, however, have excellent long-

distance vision. They are particularly quick


to pick up movement and can even detect
lameness, a useful adaptation in a predatory
animal seeking an easy kill. Canines see best
in the low light of dawn and duskprime
times for hunting in the wild. With less acute
close vision, a dog relies more on scent,
or touch through his sensitive whiskers,
to investigate nearby objects.

Cerebrum deals with


sensory information

Thalamus deals with


alertness and sleep, in
addition to conveying
information on touch,
pain, sight, and hearing

EAR SHAPES

Pineal gland is situated


at the base of the brain and
coordinates the dogs body clock

ERECT
(ALASKAN MALAMUTE)

ROSE
(GREYHOUND)

CANDLE-FLAME
(ENGLISH TOY TERRIER)

BUTTON
(PUG)

Pituitary gland produces


several hormones and also
serves as a link between the
nervous system and other
endocrine glands
Hypothalamus
regulates eating
and drinking
and controls
pituitary gland
Cerebellum
controls
movement

DROP
(BROHOLMER)

PENDANT
(BLOODHOUND)

Ear types
There are three main types of earerect (top row),
semierect (middle row), and drop (bottom row)but
each includes a variety of different forms. Ears strongly
inuence a dogs overall appearance and so in many
breeds the correct set, shape, and carriage of the ears
is carefully detailed in their respective breed standards.

12

Some areas of the


brain stem control
salivation, others
relay information
about hearing, taste,
and balance

Spinal cord connects


with the peripheral
nervous system
network that carries
sensory information
over the entire body

SENSES

HEARING
Puppies are born deaf, but as dogs mature
they develop a sense of hearing that is about
four times as acute as ours. They can hear
sounds too low or too high in pitch to be
audible to humans and are also good at
detecting the direction the sounds come from.
Breeds with erect earsthe best design for
funneling soundusually have sharper
hearing than those with drop or pendant
ears. A dogs ears are also highly mobile and
frequently used to communicate with others:
slightly pulled back to signal friendship;
dropped or attened in fear or submission;
or raised in aggression.
SMELL
Dogs take in most information through
their noses, receiving complex messages
from odors that are undetectable to
humans. Sampling a smell can tell a
dog about the readiness of a bitch
for mating, the age, sex, and
condition of a prey animal,
and possibly the mood
of his owner.

Even more remarkable, dogs can detect and


interpret who or what has crossed their path
before, which is why they are so good at
tracking. With training, dogs can be taught
to sniff out drugs and even detect disease.
The area of a dogs brain that interprets
scent messages is estimated to be about 40
times larger than ours. Although scenting
ability depends to some extent on the size
of the dog and the shape of his muzzle,
the average canine nose has somewhere in
the region of 200 million scent receptors,
compared to about 5 million in humans.
TASTE
In mammals, the senses of taste and smell are
closely linked. But although a dogs nose tells
him a great deal about what he is eating, his
sense of taste is less well developed. A human
has an estimated 10,000 taste buds receptive
to the basic tastes of bitter, sour, salty, and
sweet, but canines have probably fewer than
2,000. Unlike us, dogs do not have a strong
response to the taste of salt; this is probably
because their wild ancestors evolved to eat
meat, which has a high salt content, and so
there was no need to discriminate between
foods. Possibly to provide a balance to this
salty diet, dogs have taste receptors on
the tips of their tongues that
are highly receptive
to water.

Choroid membrane
prevents reection of
light within the eye and
carries nutrients and
oxygen to retina

Lachrymal gland
produces tears
Pupil controls
amount of light
entering eye

Transparent
cornea
covers iris
and pupil

Optic nerve
carries
information
to brain

Iris (colored
part of eye)
Lens
Third eyelid protects front
of eye and spreads tears
over surface

Light-sensitive
retina contains two
types of colorresponsive cells

The eye
Being atter in shape than a human
eye, a dogs eye is less efcient at
adjusting the focal length of the lens.
But while a dogs vision may lack ne
detail, it is much more sensitive to
light and movement.

Middle ear bones


amplify sounds
Semicircular
canals aid
balance
Cochlea
changes
sound into
chemical
signals

Ear canal

Eardrum

Auditory nerve
carries chemical
signals to brain

The ear
The mobile external part of the ear scans for and
funnels sound waves toward the middle and inner
ear, where they are amplied and transformed into
chemical signals that can be interpreted by the brain.
Brain

Tongue rather
insensitive to salt

The brain
All the sensory information that a dog receives
is carried along nerves to the brain, where
it is interpreted and then acted upon in an
appropriate way. The speed at which this happens
can be extremely rapid: for example, the source
of a sound can be pinpointed about six-hundredths
of a second after it is heard.

Nose and tongue


Scent and taste are chemical
senses located in the dogs
muzzle. Additional scent receptors
in the vomeronasal organ at the
base of the nasal cavity are
important for gathering
information about other dogs.

Position of
vomeronasal
organ

Thin, convoluted
turbinal bones covered
with nasal membranes
capture scent molecules

Nasal
membranes
have around
200 million
scent receptors

Water receptors
concentrated
on tip of tongue

13

INTRODUC TION TO DOGS | C ARDIOVA SCUL AR AND DIGESTIVE S YSTEMS

Cardiovascular and
digestive systems
The major body systems that keep a dog, and all other mammals, up and running can
function only by working together. Oxygen drawn in by the lungs and nutrients
contributed by the digestive system are the essential fuels of life and must be
transported to every part of the body. Circulating blood, driven through a network of
arteries and veins by the steady beating of the heart, provides the vital supply line.

CIRCULATION AND RESPIRATION


A dogs heart functions in the same way as
our own, pumping with a regular rhythm to
keep blood moving around the body. Inside
the muscular walls of the heart there are
four chambers that contract and relax in a
sequence with each heartbeat. This forces
blood out of the heart through the arteries
and into circulation and allows the heart to
rell with blood returning via the veins.
This circulatory, or cardiovascular, system
operates in conjunction with the respiratory
system to bring oxygen to every cell in the
body and to remove waste, such as carbon

dioxide, produced by cell activity. Blood


ows in a continuous circuit, picking up
oxygen from inhaled air in the lungs, and
then carrying it, together with nutrients
absorbed through the intestinal walls,
around the entire body. At the same time
that oxygen is collected in the lungs, carbon
dioxide diffuses out of the bloodstream and
is expelled from the body in exhaled breath.
The respiratory system also has a vital role
in preventing a dogs body from overheating.
Because a dog has only a few sweat glands,
mostly in its paws, it cannot keep cool by
perspiring. Instead, a dog pants, exhaling

warm air that causes saliva in its mouth to


evaporatelatent heat is lost, and the dogs
body temperature decreases as a result.
Also invaluable for dogs, especially
cold-climate spitz breeds, is an adaptation
to the cardiovascular system that prevents
excessive loss of body heat through the
paws when in contact with cold ground.

Trachea carries inhaled air


from the nostrils or mouth
to the lungs and exhaled
air back out
Jugular vein
Carotid artery carries up to
20 percent of the hearts
blood to the brain
Pulmonary vein, in contrast to all
other veins, carries oxygenated
blood (from the lungs to the heart)
Femoral artery and
vein are the main
blood vessels of the
hind legs

Lungs have a large surface


area and rich blood supply to
maximize gaseous exchange

Pulmonary artery, in contrast to all


other arteries, carries
deoxygenated blood (to the lungs
from the heart)
Rib cage protects
heart and lungs

Heart contracts and relaxes regularly to


pump blood around the body; its size and
shape vary with the breed

14

Aorta has thick, elastic walls to


carry blood under pressure as
it leaves the heart

Subclavian artery and vein


are the main blood
vessels of the forelegs

Circulatory system
Oxygenated blood is carried from
the heart to all parts of the body in a
branching network of arteries (red),
and returns in a similar network of
veins (blue) carrying carbon dioxide.

C ARDIOVA SCUL AR AND DIGESTIVE S YSTEMS

Where the blood ows in and out of the


paws, the arteries and veins are in very close
proximity. As warm arterial blood passes
into the paws, it transfers its heat to the
cooler returning venous blood, so the heat
is retained in the body rather than lost to
the environment. Known as counter-current
heat exchange, the same mechanism
operates in the skin of walruses and in
penguins feet, allowing them to survive
in freezing polar environments.
DIGESTING FOOD
A healthy dog wastes no time in clearing its
food bowl, gulping down one mouthful
after another without stopping to chew
anything. Canids are programmed to eat fast,
not out of greed but out of necessityin the
wild the slowest feeder risks losing its meal to
ravenous pack mates. Humans tend to savor
the food in their mouths, chewing it and
mixing it well with saliva, which starts the

Sharp teeth bite off lumps


of meat, which are mixed
with saliva and swallowed
whole without chewing

TEETH
By the age of 7 to 8 months, most dogs
have a full set of 42 adult teeth, all
adapted for eating meat. At the front,
the upper and lower jaws have six
incisors anked at either side by a
single large canine tooth that was
once used for grasping, holding, and
piercing prey. Along the sides of the
jaws are the premolars and molars.
The fourth upper premolar and lower
rst molar on each side of the jaw are
called carnassial teeth and are a feature
of all mammals belonging to the
Carnivora order. These teeth act like a
pair of scissors and are used for cutting
and shearing through hide and bone.

Hidden
canine root
Incisor
tooth

Canine
tooth

process of digestion even before swallowing.


Dogs, which have relatively few taste buds
compared to humans, simply grab large
chunks of food and swallow them whole. To
mitigate this, they also have an excellent gag
reex. If they eat something unpleasant they
can simply throw it up.
The canine digestive tract is
short and designed specically
for processing meat, which is
Pancreas produces more
enzymes and substances that
neutralize the stomach acid on
entering the duodenum

Muscular contractions of
the esophagus move the
lumps of food down into
the stomach

Stomach has rings of muscle at its


entrance (cardiac sphincter) and exit
(pyloric sphincter) and produces enzymes,
and mucus that coats its walls, protecting
them from the acid it produces to break
down the brous tissue in meat
Liver produces bile to help break
down fat into molecules that can
then be absorbed by the blood

Carnassial
teeth

Premolars

Molars

much more quickly and easily digested than


plant material. A dogs stomach contains
high levels of digestive acids that break
down meat, bone, and fat rapidly, reducing
food to a liquid that then passes into the
small intestine. Once there, digestive
enzymes produced by the liver and pancreas
aid the breakdown of food into nutrients
that can be absorbed into the bloodstream
through the intestinal walls. Any undigested
material moves through the large intestine
to be eliminated as feces. In dogs, the transit
time of food through the digestive tract,
from eating to elimination, takes around
8 to 9 hours, compared with an average
of 36 to 48 hours in humans.

Large intestine absorbs


excess liquid. Feces are
formed and are passed
from the body

Nutrients are absorbed


through the walls of the
small intestine into the
bloodstream

Digestive system
Structurally simpleessentially the gut is a long
tubebut functionally complex, the digestive
system processes food, releasing its nutrients so
they can be absorbed into the blood stream.

15

INTRODUC TION TO DOGS | URINARY, REPRODUC TIVE, AND HORMONAL S YS TEMS

Urinary, reproductive,
and hormonal systems
In dogs, as in mammals generally, the urinary and reproductive systems share much of the same area
in the hind part of the abdominal cavity. Their tracts become linked together in the male, where
urine and sperm have a combined exit point through the penis. Like all body functions, both these
systems are ne-tuned by hormonal action. Hormones control the production and volume of
urine, and they ensure that a female dogs reproductive periods occur at optimum times.

URINARY SYSTEM
The function of the urinary system is
to remove waste from the blood and
expel it from the body, along with excess
water, as urine. The urinary organs
comprise the kidneys, which work as
ltering units and make urine; the
ureters, tubes that carry urine away from
the kidneys; the bladder, which acts as
a reservoir; and the urethra, the tube

through which urine is excreted. The


process is regulated by hormones acting on
the kidneys to maintain the correct balance
of salts and other chemicals in the body.
Dogs urinate not just to relieve their
bladders but also to mark territory and
communicate with other dogs. Hormones
and chemicals carried in the urine have an
odor that provides a snifng dog with
information, including whether a recent

passer-by is male or female. The smell fades


quickly in the open air, which is why male
dogs constantly mark spots with small
amounts of urine, often returning to the
same place to refresh the message. Bitches
tend to empty their bladders completely in
just one place. Urine of either sex contains
nitrogen and it is this that is responsible
for the brown patches that appear on lawns
where dogs have been.
Brain controls
most hypothalamic
activity

Hypothalamic region
controls pituitary activity
Ureters carry
urine to bladder
from kidneys

Kidneys lter
waste from blood

Spermatic cords
transport sperm to
prostate gland

Pituitary gland
stimulates and
controls other glands

Thyroid gland is
controlled by
pituitary gland
Uretha carries
urine and semen

Testes produce sperm


and testosterone, which
plays a key role in
the development of
male sex organs

Penis rests in
protective
sheath
Baculum
(penis bone)
Bladder stores
urine

16

Adrenal glands,
adjacent to kidneys,
produce adrenaline
and cortisone

Male systems
The urinary system is similar to that of the female,
except that it merges with the reproductive
system in the urethra. Except for the different
sex hormones produced, the hormone systems
are also alike. The reproductive system differs both
in structure and in the fact that a male dog is
potentially sexually active all year round.

URINARY, REPRODUC TIVE, AND HORMONAL S YSTEMS

REPRODUCTION
Dogs usually reach sexual maturity
somewhere between 6 and 12 months of age.
In wild canines such as the wolf, females
normally have one period of estrus a year
(known as coming into season, or being
in heat), during which they ovulate and
are ready to breed. With a few exceptions,
the Basenji being one, domestic dogs usually
have two seasons a year. The onset of estrus
is marked by a small discharge of blood,
which lasts for around nine days, after
which the bitch will be willing to mate.
Male dogs have a bone within the penis
called the baculum. During mating, the
area around the bone enlarges, locking
the penis inside the female and creating
what is known as the tie, which can last
for some minutes. If mating leads to
fertilization of the female ova (eggs), the
pregnancy that follows will last between
60 to 68 days. The size of the litter
depends on the type of dog, with larger
breeds tending to have larger litters.

Anything from one to fourteen or more


puppies may be born, but a litter of six
to eight is the average.
HORMONES
Produced by specialized glands and tissues
and released into the bloodstream, hormones
are chemicals that affect specic cells.
Hormonal activity controls many body
functions, including growth, metabolism,
sexual development, and reproduction.
Neutering dogs removes the production
sites of the sex hormonestestosterone in
males, and estrogen in femalesand
prevents unwanted pregnancies. As a result
of the loss of testosterone, male dogs lose the
urge to wander in search of females and are
less likely to show aggression. Neutering also
affects coat shedding in bitches, which usually
have their heaviest coat loss twice a year,
triggered by the hormone that brings them
into season. Spayed (neutered) females tend
to shed all year round. Neutering may also
increase the probability of obesity in later life.

HORMONES IN
PREGNANCY
During pregnancy, rising levels of hormones
such as estrogen help to prepare a bitch
for giving birth and also, by stimulating
development of the milk glands, for feeding
her puppies. In a lactating (nursing) bitch, milk
production is maintained by an increase in the
hormone prolactin, which also inuences
maternal behavior, arousing strong protective
instincts and ensuring that the mother will not
desert her puppies while they are still totally
dependent on her for survival.

Hypothalamus gland stimulates pituitary


gland and produces oxytocin that triggers
uterine contractions
Sensory input into
brain affects
hypothalamus

Uterus has two


distinct horns
Cervix separates
uterus from vagina

Adrenal medulla
hormones affect
stress and emotions

Kidney
Pituitary gland controls other
hormone-producing glands
and secretes prolactin, which
aids milk production

Vagina opens
at vulva

Thyroid and
parathyroid glands
produce hormones
that control the bodys
metabolic rate

Ovaries are
seasonally active
and produce sex
hormones
Bladder temporarily
stores urine produced
by kidneys

Adrenal cortex secretes


hormones that control
carbohydrates and
sex hormones

Female systems
The female has more complex reproductive
and hormonal systems than the male, since she
is sexually active only once or twice a year. After
mating, the young develop within the uterus
and, after birth, are nurtured by the female for
about six to eight weeks. All of the reproductive
stages are controlled by different hormones.

17

INTRODUC TION TO DOGS | SKIN AND COAT

Skin and coat


Dogs are thin-skinned, but for the majority their covering of hair provides sufcient warmth
and protection. Canine coats come in many types: some dogs have big hair, others are short,
wiry, curly, or corded. A handful of breeds have bare skins, with perhaps a sprinkling of hairs
on their extremities. While natural selection is responsible for some variation in dogs coats,
humans have introduced most changes, partly for utility but more often for fashion.

SKIN STRUCTURE
In common with all mammals, dogs have
three layers of skin: the epidermis, or outer
layer; the dermis, or middle layer; and the
subcutaneous layer, consisting largely of fat
cells. Compared with humans, dogs have
only a thin epidermis as, with the exception
of the few hairless breeds, they have fur
coats to provide protection and insulation.
Dogs hair grows from complex follicles,
consisting of a central guard hair and
several, ner undercoat hairs, which all
project through the same skin pore in the

HAIRLESS

FULL, DOUBLE COAT

18

epidermis. Dogs also have sensitive facial


hairs, called tactile hairs, which are deeply
rooted and well supplied with blood and
nerves. These include whiskers, eyebrows,
and hairs on the ears.
Oil glands (known as sebaceous glands)
are linked to the hair follicles, into which
they secrete a substance called sebum. This
acts as a skin lubricant and helps to keep the
coat glossy and waterproof. Most follicles
also have an attached muscle that can raise
the hair to trap warm air or, more noticeably,
lift the hackles along a dogs back: for

SHORT, SINGLE COAT

SEMILONG COAT

CURLY COAT

LONG-HAIRED,
SILKY COAT

example, when he is afraid or angry. Unlike


humans, dogs do not perspire through their
skin and have functional sweat glands
mainly in the pads of their feet.
COAT TYPES
Some of the main coat types are shown below.
Most breeds of dog have only one coat type,
but some, such as the Pyrenean Sheepdog (see
p.50), have several. Many types of dog have a
double coat, consisting of a top coat of guard
hairs, which provides waterproong, and a
shorter, softer undercoat. In Spitz dogs, such

WIRE-HAIRED COAT

CORDED COAT

SKIN AND COAT

as the Chow Chow (see p.112), this dual layer


can be immensely thick. With such insulation,
traditional sled dogs of the northern
hemisphere, such as the Greenland Dog (see
p.100) remain impervious to the most bitter
cold. Even the feet of these dogs are protected
by long hairs between the toes, which also
give them excellent traction on snow and
iceand adaptations of the blood vessels in
the feet (see p.14) help to prevent heat loss, too.
Dogs with extravagantly long hair are bred
today for appearance alone, although some
originally needed their heavy coats for an
outdoor life. For example, the Afghan Hound
(see p.136) is a sight hound from the cold,
high mountains of Afghanistan, and the
Bearded Collie (see p.57) has a working
background as a herding dog. On the other
hand, the silky, owing coat of the diminutive
Yorkshire Terrier (see p.190) has probably
always been more decorative than functional,
despite the breeds long history. Some very

attractive dogs, such as the Cocker Spaniel


(see p.222) and English Setter (see p.241), have
semi-long coats combining silky-textured
body hair of moderate length with longer
feathering on the tail, underside, and legs.
Some short-haired dogs have sleek,
rm-textured coats that often consist of
guard hairs only. The Dalmatian (see p.286)
and some pointers and hounds are typical.
In wire-haired dogs, largely the terrier group,
the guard hairs are kinked, giving a coarse,
springy texture. These coats are serviceable
in cold weather and stand up well to an
energetic terrier lifestyle of digging or delving
through undergrowth. Breeds with curly
coats are uncommon, the best known being
the Poodle (see p.229, 276), sometimes seen
clipped in fantastic style for the show ring.
In a few rare breeds, including the Komondor
(see p.66) and Puli (see p.65), curls are taken
to extremes, developing into long cords
resembling dreadlocks that virtually obscure

the dogs entire body. Natural genetic


mutations have resulted in several hairless
breeds. Dogs like the Xoloitzcuintli (see p.37)
and the Chinese Crested (see p.280) have
been around for centuries, but it is only in
modern times that hairlessness has been
deliberately perpetuated by selective
breeding. Some hairless dogs have
a few wisps of hair on the head and feet, and
sometimes a plume on the tail.
As any owner can testify, all dogs shed
a certain amount of hair. Shedding is a
natural seasonal response to the hours of
daylight, and reaches a peak in the spring
as the coat thins in readiness for warmer
weather. In double-coated dogs, whether
long- or short-haired, hair loss can be
considerable as the thick undercoat falls
out. When dogs live largely indoors in
well-heated houses, the shedding pattern
may change, with the dog losing a little hair
throughout the year.

COAT COLORS
Some dogs have just one color or one color
combination, but many have two or three
color variations, or more. Where applicable,
the breed descriptions in this book include color
swatches that match as closely as possible the
coat colors recognized in a breed. These are in
addition to the colors that can be seen
in the photographs of the dog.
A swatch may represent a range of colors.
The swatches listed in the key are as specied
in the various breed standards but different
names may be given for the same color: for
example, while red is used to describe many
breeds, ruby is used for English Toy Spaniels
and Cavalier King Charles Spaniels. A nal
generic swatch is used to represent breeds
that have a limited variety of colors, or those
that can have any color.

Red; red merle; ruby; stag-red; deep red


ginger; sandy-red; red-fawn; red-brown;
chestnut-brown; lion; orange; orange roan

Gold and white (either color may


predominate); white and chestnut; yellow
and white; white with orange; sable and
white; orange belton; lemon belton

Liver; bronze

Chestnut, red, and white; red and white;


red and white spotted

Blue; blue merle (blue-gray); ash

Liver and white; liver belton; brown and


white (either color may predominate);
red roan; roan; white with liver spots

Dark brown; bos (brown); chocolate;


dead leaf; havana

Tan and white (either color may


predominate)

Black; nearly black; dark gray

Black and white (either color may


predominate); piebald; black and white
spotted; sesame; black sesame; black
and silver

Cream; white; white-beige; blonde; yellow

Black and tan; vierugl; karamis; King


Charles; black grizzle and tan; black
and brown

Black, tan, and white; gray, black, and tan;


white, chocolate, and tan; Prince Charles;
(all also known as tricolor)

Gray; ashen-gray; slate-gray; steel-gray;


gray brindle; wolf-gray; silver

Blue mottled with tan; blue and tan

Brindle; black brindle; dark brindle;


fawn brindle; pepper and salt; range
of red brindles

Gold; russet-gold; apricot; biscuit; wheaten;


sandy; light sand; mustard; straw; strawbracken; Isabella; all shades of fawn; pale
brown; yellow-red; sable

Liver and tan

Variety of colors or any color

19

INTRODUC TION TO DOGS | DOGS IN RELIGION, MY TH, AND CULTURE

Dogs in religion,
myth, and culture

A SACRED
FU DOG

With a relationship that began before the dawn of civilization, it is not surprising that, over
millennia, dogs and humans have developed strong cultural links. From being servants of
man in the material world, dogs crossed the spiritual divide to become servants of heaven
and hell. And as the bond between humans and canines strengthened into one of love and
loyalty, dogs were nally seen as characterswhich has made them indispensable
role-players in popular literature and entertainment for adults and children alike.

DOGS IN RELIGION
With dogs seen as traditional protectors, it
was natural that they should be given
symbolic duties as guardians in many belief
systems. In ancient Egypt, as tomb paintings
and hieroglyphs reveal, dogs were associated
with the jackal-headed god Anubis, guide of

spirits in the Underworld. Similar evidence of


the religious signicance of dogs has been
found at burial sites of the Mayan Classic
era (c.300900 CE), where sculptures and
mummies suggest that dogs were buried
with their owners to lead their souls in the
afterlife. The Aztecs (14th16th century)
buried pottery gures of dogs with their
dead and probably used dogs as sacrices
in religious ceremonies. In China statues
of Fu dogs, also known as guardian lions,
are seen at the entrances of many Buddhist
templestheir lionlike appearance giving
them sacred signicance.
Most major religions practiced today
are largely dismissive of dogs, and some
shun them as unclean. But to Hindus in
parts of present-day India and Nepal, dogs
are regarded as guardians of the gates to
heaven and are associated with the god
Vishnu, whose four dogs are said to
represent the four Vedas, the ancient holy
texts of the Hindus. At an annual religious
festival dogs are decorated with ower
garlands and marked with the sacred red
dot (tika) on their foreheads.
CANINE MYTHS AND LEGENDS
Dogs both faithful and frightening have
featured in classical myths, legends, and
folk tales throughout the ages and in all
countries. None is more loyal than Argos,
Odysseuss hunting dog, who waits 20 years
to welcome his master home and then dies
with a nal wag of his tail. And possibly none
Argos, the great dog
In Homers The Odyssey, Argos is Odysseuss faithful dog.
When Odysseus arrives back to his homeland, Ithaca, in
disguise after 20 years, Argos is the rst to recognize him.

20

is more monstrous than the three-headed


hound Cerberus, keeper of the entrance
to Hades, whose capture was the 12th
and most dangerous Labor of Hercules.
The concept of the phantom dog occurs
time and again in stories of the supernatural.
Malevolent dogs are part of the folklore
of peoples across the world, from North
and South America to Asia. Many legends
originate in Britain and Ireland, where
ghostly dogs, usually large and black,
frightened people by haunting graveyards
or lonely crossroads. Phantom dogs were
given various regional names, such as the
Barghest and the Grim. On a dark and
deserted road, Charlotte Brontes usually
strong-minded heroine Jane Eyre is briey
spooked into thinking she has seen the
Gytrash, the spirit-hound of northern
England. Sir Arthur Conan Doyle picked
up on the black dog legend in The Hound
of the Baskervilles (1901), his eerie tale
of a ery-eyed hound visiting terror on
Dartmoor in Britain.
DOGS IN LITERATURE
People have been writing about dogs for
around 2,000 years, but the earliest books
were practical guides for people who
kept dogs for working, primarily hunting.
Fictional dogs certainly appear in dozens
of Aesops Fables, written around 500 years
BCE , but here the Greek moralizer was
using dogs as a way of illustrating human
characteristics and failings, such as greed
or gullibility. It was only in much later
centuries, when dogs became pets and
companions, that they began to be treated
as personalities in their own right.

DOGS IN RELIGION, MY TH, AND CULTURE

White Fang
The 1906 novel White Fang by Jack London tells the story of
a dog-wolf crossbreed. After successfully ghting several other
dogs, he is matched with a bulldog that nearly kills him.

The Incredible Journey


One of the biggest tearjerkers of the 1960s, The Incredible
Journey was based on a book of the same name and told the
story of Luath, the Labrador, Bodger, the Bull Terrier, and Tao,
an indomitable Siamese cat, as they journey across hundreds
of miles of dangerous wilderness to reach home.

An early ctional dog with enduring


appeal is Crab, from Shakespeares The
Two Gentlemen of Verona (c.1592), whose
owner, the servant Launce, mournfully
describes him as the sourest-natured dog
that lives. This heartless hound, usually
played on stage for laughs by a real dog,
may have been less than a best friend,
but in most dog stories devotion has always
been the keynote.
Typical of a genre more popular a century
ago than today are the books of Jack
London, such as The Call of the Wild (1903)
and White Fang (1906)tales told partly
from the dogs point of view, combined with
rip-roaring action. Despite their undeniable
elements of brutality, these books survive
as classics.
Among cozier storybook canines that have
stayed the course, one of the best loved is
Nana, a sad-eyed Newfoundland (see p.78)
dog, nurse to the Darling children in Peter
Pan, who marches her charges to school and
nags them into the bathtub. Also familiar
to millions of children is Timmy, the
rough-coated mongrel who features as the

fth member of the Famous Five in a stream


of stories written by Enid Blyton between
the 1940s and 1960s. Timmy helps to save the
day in all kinds of improbable adventures,
but he is nonetheless a more believable dog
than Nana, and one that children can readily
imagine as a companion. Other old faithfuls
include Snowy the white terrier, sidekick to
the boy detective Tintin (see p.209), and
Dorothys dog Toto in The Wizard of Oz.
DOGS ON SCREEN
Since the 20th century dog stories have
been a huge success in movies. Walt
Disneys cartoon dogs have delighted
moviegoers for decadeshapless Pluto;
well-bred Lady and street-wise Tramp; the
101 Dalmatians (see p.286). Real-life dogs
have appeared in other popular lms, such
as Lassie (see p.52), Old Yeller, Big Red,
and The Incredible Journey. In the tradition
of Shakespeares Crab, dogs make good
lm comedians and many leading actors
have allowed themselves to be upstaged
by a canine costar; such memorable screen
dogs include the lugubrious mastiff helping
with police investigations in Turner and
Hooch (1989), the delinquent Labrador
in Marley and Me (2008), and the scenestealing Jack Russell in The Artist (2011).

The Artist
Uggie is a Jack Russell Terrier famous for his roles in Mr. Fix
It, Water for Elephants, and The Artist. Uggies role in The
Artist (a still from the movie above) drew great acclaim
worldwide and the lm went on to win multiple awards.

21

INTRODUC TION TO DOGS | DOGS IN ART AND ADVERTISING

Dogs in art and advertising


Drawn and painted, sculpted, woven into tapestries, photographed, used as company logos:
dogs have had visual appeal for the entire span of their association with humans. In almost
every type of medium, they tell stories without words, say something about their owners
or the people who portray them, and reect the lifestyles and tastes of different ages. Most
people like dogs and enjoy them as subjects in art. Commercial organizations have long
relied on this unfailing attraction by using dog images to promote goods and services.

PORTRAYING DOGS
A history of the domestic dog can be traced
through the development of art. Probably
some of the earliest depictions of dogs, in
their original role as hunting companions,
are prehistoric rock paintings discovered in

Saharan Africa, believed by some authorities


to be more than 5,000 years old. Dogs,
similar in appearance to todays greyhounds,
hunted on through the Classical ages of
Greece and Rome in superbly rendered
sculptures, especially associated with the
Greek goddess Artemis (Roman Diana).
The best-known Classical dogs are not
hunters, though, but the erce, chained
guard dogs in lifelike mosaics retrieved
from the ashes of Pompeii. In later ages
slender sight hounds pursued deer and
Rock carving
From the Neolithic period to the 21st century, dogs have
been enjoyed as art subjects. This petroglyph in Youf
Ahakit Tassili Ahaggar, Sahara Desert, Algeria, is one of
the earliest depictions.

HOGARTH
WITH HIS PET
PUG, TRUMP

unicorns across medieval tapestries; an


estimated 35 dogs appear in the famous
Bayeux Tapestry illustrating the Norman
Conquest of Britain, albeit largely conned
to the fringes of the main action. The hunting
dog theme continued into the sporting prints
of the 18th century, with their packs of
foxhounds in full cry, and the portraits
of gundogs, dead game hanging limply
from their jaws, favored by the 19th-century
landed shooting fraternity.
Before dogs became accepted as the norm
in ordinary homes during the 19th century,
they were usually painted as pets only in
portraits commissioned by the wealthy
as companions of aristocrats or in the arms
of small beribboned children. But dogs

Ringwood, a Brocklesby Foxhound


This anatomically accurate portrait of a Foxhound painted
by English painter George Stubbs in 1792 reveals how
Foxhounds looked at the time.

Bayeux Tapestry
This section of the Bayeux Tapestry from the 11th century
depicts three large dogs and two smaller ones running
ahead of a huntsman.

22

DOGS IN ART AND ADVERTISING

A kings companion
This portrait of Emperor Charles V by Tiziano
Vecelli (Titian) subtly suggests the emperors
power as he is depicted restraining one of his
large dogs.

portrayed as a fact of life, desirable or


otherwise, have been common in art for
centuries. William Hogarth (16971764),
who posed with his pet pug, Trump, in a
self-portrait, included dogs as part of the
social commentary implicit in his work.
Hogarths dogs go about their canine affairs
largely unregarded, stealing food scraps or
lifting a leg to urinate. Dogs began to be
painted as a subject in their own right in the
late 18th century by painters such as George
Stubbs. A more sentimental attitude to dogs
crept in with the Victorian artists, famously
Sir Edwin Landseer (180273), whose
portraits of self-sacricing Newfoundlands
(see p.79), pert terriers, and noble deerhounds
embody the virtues and emotions of his era.
Some of the greatest pictures in the world
include a dog or twovariously interpreted
by impressionists, post-impressionists,
surrealists, modernists, and others. Renoir

painted dogs innumerable times,


sitting on laps, going for walks, and
at picnics. Amid the crowded scene
of one of his most famous works,
The Boating Party (188081), a small
dog shares the limelight in the
foreground. Another artist who
enjoyed painting dogs was Pierre
Bonnard (18671947); from street
mutts to family pets, he showed them
bursting with real character.
More disturbing are the dogs used
as obscure symbols in the surreal
paintings of Salvador Dali. The
starving hound chewing a carcass in
Dalis Metamorphosis of Narcissis
(1937) possibly reects death and
decay. Just as enigmatic is fellow
surrealist Joan Miros cartoonish
little dog baying at an uncaring
Moon in a largely barren canvas
(Dog Barking at the Moon, 1926).
Dog-lover Picassos simple sketch of
his dog, Lump, captures the essence
of the Dachshund (see p.170) in a
few graceful lines and has become
one of his most popular prints.
Lucien Freud included his beloved
whippets, Eli and Pluto, in several of his
powerful human portraitsin his Girl with
a White Dog (195051) the bull terrier is as
much a focal point of the picture as the
female model, Freuds rst wife.
COMMERCIAL ICONS
Dog appeal has proved immensely valuable
in the eld of commercial advertising. In
much the same way as artists sometimes
portray dogs symbolically, so marketing
managers nd dogs useful for putting their
messages across: bulldogs, strong and
reliable, sell insurance; large, shaggy dogs
suggest a family-friendly product; small,
uffy breeds have the right image for
beauty aids.
One of the best-known advertising icons of
all time is the painting of the terrier
Nipper, used as a logo since 1899 by the
music company HMV (His Masters Voice).

Equally long survivors are the black Scottie


(see p.189) and the West Highland White
Terrier (see p.188), famous since the 1890s as
the trademark for a brand of Scotch whisky.
Original bar gurines, jugs, and ashtrays
featuring the Black and White pair are now
collectors items.
With the arrival of commercial television,
dogs started appearing on screen in
advertisements promoting almost anything
from cans of paint to credit cards. Since
the 1970s, hundreds of huggable Labrador
Retriever (see pp.260) puppies have taken
on the role as mascot for a best-selling toilet
tissue, gamboling amid unraveling toiletpaper rolls. Naturally, dogs are used to
advertise their own products, too. Brighteyed and bouncing, they testify to the
excellence of various canned and packaged
pet foodsalthough the biggest hit, Henry
the bloodhound in a much-loved television
advertisement of the 1960s and 70s, simply
sat and looked doleful.
In the world of fashion, dogs are also
often used on the principle that cute sells.
Alongside leggy models in haute couture
clothes or advertising luxury goods, dogs
work particularly well as accessories. Todays
upmarket fashion magazines are full of
photoshoots featuring Pugs (see p.268)
and Chihuahuas (see p.282) wearing a
small fortune in designer jewelry around
their necks or poking their heads out of
expensive handbags.

His Masters Voice


Used as a logo since 1899 by the music company HMV,
Nipper, the terrier gazing transxed into the trumpet of a
windup gramophone, has survived into the 21st century
despite the advent of new technology.

23

INTRODUC TION TO DOGS | DOGS IN SPORTS AND SERVICE

Dogs in sports and service


From the dawn of their relationship, dogs and humans have worked and played
together successfully. Most dogs are natural enthusiasts for chasing and running, and
people the world over learned early on how to exploit these inclinations for hunting
and sports. Canine intelligence has also proved more than equal to the numerous
demands made on dogs as work partners. Most are eager to please and have readily
taken on duties as guardians, herders, guides, trackers, and even home helpers.

HUNTING FOR PLEASURE


Primitive peoples used dogs to help them
catch game for food, but with the rise of
civilizations, hunting with dogs developed
into a sport as well, although usually only
for the wealthier members of society. As
paintings dating back nearly 3,000 years
depict, the Ancient Egyptians hunted with
dogs very similar to some of todays big-eared
sight hounds, such as the Pharaoh Hound (see
p.32) and Ibizan Hound (see p.33) In China
the tombs of the Han dynasty (206BCE
220CE), have yielded realistic gurines of
heftily built mastiff-type hunting dogs that
appear to be pointing at game.
By medieval times in Europe, hunting
with dogs of various types was the passion of
kings and landowning nobility. Swift-running
hounds, resembling modern greyhounds and
harriers, were sent after smaller game; but
dangerous quarry such as bear and wild boar
required larger hounds, hunting in varied
packs that included the now-extinct types
known as alaunts and lymers, which were
broadly similar to mastiffs and bloodhounds.

In later centuries, pack-hunting dogs


developed into distinctly recognizable
breeds, such as foxhounds, staghounds,
and otterhounds. Hunting of live game with
hounds is now illegal in some countries, but
the excitement of the chase lives on in draghunting, in which the pack follows a trail of
articial scent. Hunting dogs with highly
specialized roles were developed when the
invention of guns led to the growth of sports

Tracking and chasing


Early hunters appreciated the ability of hounds to follow
a scent as well as their speed when chasing quarry so
worked with them to increase their hunting success, as
seen in this Roman relief of Hercules hunting.

shooting of waterfowl and game birds such as


pheasant and grouse. Among the breeds still
bred and trained today are pointers and setters
that direct the guns to their targets, spaniels
for working in undergrowth to ush out
game, and retrievers to bring back fallen birds.
SPORTING DOGS
Hunting is by no means the only way
humans have used dogs for their own
amusement. One of the earliest, and most
brutal, entertainments was pit ghting,
in which powerful dogs, such as the mastiffs
once seen in the arenas of Ancient Rome,
were set against bears, bulls, and sometimes
each other. The battles were bloody, and
victory for one combatant meant death or
mutilation for the other. On a smaller scale,
pit ghts between terriers and rats once had
a widespread following.
People have come up with many other
ways of using dogs in sports, among which
trials of speed have been the most enduring.
Coursing, in which competing pairs of fast
sight hounds such as Greyhounds, Whippets,
or Salukis are sent in pursuit of hares, was
popular for nearly 2,000 years before being
made illegal in most European countries.
Greyhound racing has attracted big crowds
for hundreds of years; and since the 20th
century some of the most challenging races
in terms of speed and endurance have
been for teams of sled dogstough,
cold-weather breeds such as Greenland
Dogs (see p.100) and Siberian Huskies
(see p.101)competing over hundreds
of miles in harsh northern territories.
Afghan Hounds racing
Dog racing has been a popular means of entertainment
for centuries. Several breeds, including Afghan Hounds,
race as they chase an articial lure around a track until
they cross the nish line.

24

DOGS IN SPORTS AND SERVICE

Gathering the ock


Sheepdogs are trained to round up and herd ocks and are
hardy enough to work in severe climate conditions. Here a
Border Collie herds sheep in Twizel, New Zealand.

Among the gentler sports are trials in which


dogs display their agility, intelligence, and
obedience by negotiating tricky obstacle
courses. Agility trials are often highly
competitive affairs; but many are no more
than low-key local events, in which anyones
pet with a zest for leaping over jumps or
wriggling through pipes can take part.
DOGS IN SERVICE
Another of the early occupations for dogs
in the service of humans was as guardians
and herders of livestock, and the tradition
continues in many parts of the world. Pastoral
work is not always peaceful where bears and
wolves live, and so large, powerful breeds
with ercely protective instincts, such as

the thick-coated shepherd dogs still seen in


eastern Europe, were developed to deal with
dangerous predators.
Harnessing canine strength has sometimes
been taken literally, with larger dogs used as
draft animals, whether for hauling sleds over
polar ice, drawing milk carts, or taking small
children for rides in traps. In the past even
small dogs were sometimes used for
providing motive power: unfortunate terriers
could be found in the sweltering kitchens of
large houses and inns, running endlessly in
treadwheels to turn roasting spits.
Dogs have gone to war for centuries, and
in World Wars I and II were employed to
carry messages, rst aid, and ammunition
across no-go zones. Today dogs trained to
sniff out explosive devices are important
members of the armed forces. A dogs ability
to scent trouble has also proved helpful to
police and security forces. Baying

bloodhounds pursue eeing suspects, and


specially trained dogs are also invaluable
in such work as detecting drugs or locating
survivors in areas of devastation.
Dogs have often made life in the home
easier, too. The Ancient Aztecs used hairless
dogs as hot-water bottles on cold nights,
but in the modern world canine partners
sometimes have to be more active. Guide
dogs help people with impaired sight to
safely negotiate hazards such as trafc and
stairs. Many people with other disabilities
or illnesses also rely on dogs trained to
perform such tasks as warning of impending
epileptic seizures or even loading the
washing machine. In hospitals, hospices,
and nursing homes dogs chosen carefully for
their amenable temperaments are brought in
to provide comfort and distraction, and
their services as a very real form of therapy
are widely acknowledged.
25

GUIDE TO
BREEDS

CHAPTER 2

A primitive dog of many talents


Today the Peruvian Hairless is kept mainly
as a pet, but for hundreds of years this
athletic breed was used for hunting
and guarding as well as for therapeutic
purposes and companionship.

PRIMITIVE DOGS

PRIMITIVE
DOGS
Many modern dog breeds are the result of hundreds of years of breeding for particular
characteristics, but a few, commonly regarded as primitive dogs, have remained close to the
original blueprint of their wolf ancestors. As a group, primitive dogs are not clearly dened,
and not all authorities agree that such a category should be recognized.

As variously listed, primitive dogs


are a diverse group, but many of
them share typically wolike
characteristics. These include erect
ears, a wedge-shaped head with a
pointed muzzle, and a tendency to
howl rather than bark. Their coats
are usually short but vary in color and
density according to the region from
which the dog originates. Most
primitive dogs come into season only
once a year, unlike other domestic
dogs, which have two cycles of
estrus a year.
Canine specialists are now taking
an interest in dogs that have had little
to do with humans and nothing to do
with breed development programs.
These primitive dogs, which come
from various parts of the world,

include the Carolina Dog (see p.35)


of North America and the rare New
Guinea Singing Dog (see p.32), which
is genetically very close to the dingo
of Australia. Such dogs have evolved
naturally rather than through breeding
for temperament or appearance and
cannot be considered completely
domesticated. The New Guinea
Singing Dog, which is on the verge
of extinction, is more likely to be
seen in zoos than in homes.
Several dogs are included in
the primitive group because they
are believed to be uninuenced
by any other types over thousands
of years. Among them is the Basenji
(see p.30) from Africa, long used
for hunting in its native country
before becoming a popular pet.

Other examples are hairless dogs


from Mexico and South America,
genetic mutations of coated breeds
that resemble dogs depicted in the art
and artifacts of ancient civilizations.
Recent genetic investigations suggest
that two dogs included in this section
the Pharaoh Hound (see p.32) and the
Ibizan Hound (see p.33)should no
longer be considered primitive. These
breeds are popularly supposed to be
the direct descendants of big-eared
Egyptian hounds pictured in drawings
dating back 3,000 years. However,
there is genetic evidence that the line
of descent may not have remained
unbroken down the centuries. It is
probable that the Pharaoh and Ibizan
Hounds are in fact modern re-creations
of ancient breeds.

29

C ATALOG OF BREEDS | PRIMITIVE DOGS

30

PRIMITIVE DOGS

Basenji
HEIGHT
1617in
(4043cm)

DEDICATED BREEDER
LIFE SPAN
Over 10 years

WEIGHT
2224lb
(1011kg)

Variety of colors
White markings may appear on
chest, feet, and tail tip.

This neat and graceful dog is always on the alert and ready
to protect, but instead of barking it yodels
One of the most primitive breeds, the
Basenji is a hunting dog from Central Africa.
Like the Canaan Dog (see p.32), it belongs
to a group known as Schensi dogsbreeds
that have not been completely domesticated.
Basenjis are traditionally used by pygmy
hunters; they live semi-independently in a
pack alongside the tribe, but are employed
for driving big game into nets. The dogs
are tted with bells around their necks to
scare their prey. Western explorers originally
encountered these dogs in the 17th century
and used names such as Congo Terrier
or Bush Dog to describe them. In the
1930s the rst dogs were imported into
the UK, and the breed was named basenji
(meaning little things from the bush
or villagers dogs in one of the languages
of the Congo region of Africa).
An unusual feature of the Basenji is
that it does not barkthe larynx (voice
box) is shaped differently from that of

most other dogs. Instead, the dogs howl


or yodel; some of the African tribespeople
who use them refer to them as talking
dogs. Another notable feature is that
the females come into season only once
a year, like wolves, rather than twice,
as with domestic dogs.
The Basenji is affectionate and funloving, and is a popular house dog. Although
loyal to its family, it is rather independentminded, so may need careful training to
follow orders. These dogs are fast, agile,
and intelligent; they locate their prey by
both sight and scent, and enjoy chasing
and tracking activities. They need plenty
of mental and physical exercise if they are
not to become bored.

Flat-topped
skull

Forehead wrinkles
when alert

Tail carried in tight


curl over back

Veronica Tudor-Williams (below) was one of the


rst people to import the Basenji to the UK from
Africa in the late 1930s. She continued breeding
her dogs during the food shortages of World
War II and exported puppies to North America,
helping to establish the breed there. In 1959 she
traveled to southern Sudan in search of native
Basenji dogs that could be used to improve
the breed. She returned with two. One of them,
a red and white female named Fula, was never
presented at shows but was still extremely
inuential and appears in the pedigrees of
nearly all registered Basenjis.

Smooth,
short coat

Finely
chiseled
features

Long,
elegant
neck

Very long
forearms

Red

PUPPY

31

C ATALOG OF BREEDS | PRIMITIVE DOGS

Canaan Dog

New Guinea Singing Dog


HEIGHT 1618in (4045cm)
WEIGHT 1831lb (814kg)
LIFE SPAN 1520 years

HEIGHT 2024in (5060cm)


WEIGHT 4055lb (1825kg)
LIFE SPAN Over 10 years

Sable
Black and tan
White markings are common with all color
types.

This rare dingolike breed is a native of New Guinea, where


it lives feral or in semidomestication. The Singing Dog
is kept as a curiosity in zoos worldwide but has become
a challenging pet for a few dedicated owners. It has
the extraordinary ability to vary the notes of
its howl, hence the name.

Wedgeshaped
head

White
Red and
white spotted

Black
Black and
white spotted

Bred in Israel as a watchdog and herder, the Canaan Dog has


strong protective instincts that do not usually turn into aggression.
It is highly intelligent, and with steady training makes a reliable
and affectionate companion. Not a common breed,
it has yet to achieve widespread popularity.
Dark, slightly
slanting eyes

Red

Brushlike,
thick tail, carried
high and curled
Short, thick,
plush coat

Dense,
harsh coat
Low-set,
broad ears

Small,
erect ears
Moderately
tucked-up
belly

White
chest
markings

Tucked-up
belly
Sandy

Pharaoh Hound
HEIGHT 2125in (5363cm)
WEIGHT 4455lb (2025kg)
LIFE SPAN Over 10 years

Although the modern Pharaoh Hound was developed in Malta,


this graceful breed bears a strong resemblance to the prick-eared
hunting dogs illustrated in the art and artifacts of Ancient Egypt.
The Pharaoh Hound is calm-tempered but needs a lot of exercise
and unless restrained outdoors
Large,
will y off in pursuit of small
erect ears
animals, including other pets.

Arched,
long neck
Slender,
elegant body

Dark tan

White markings
on chest
common

Whipped tail,
carried in a
high curve
when active

Amber-colored eyes

Short, glossy,
slightly harsh coat

Toes often
marked white

32

PRIMITIVE DOGS

Cirneco dellEtna

Canarian Warren Hound


HEIGHT 21-25in (5364cm)
WEIGHT 35-49lb (1622kg)
LIFE SPAN 1213 years

HEIGHT 1720in (4252cm)


WEIGHT 1826lb (812kg)
LIFE SPAN 1214 years

This Sicilian breed, which may have originated in


the area immediately around Mount Etna, is rare
outside its native country. Lithe and strong, the
Cirneco dellEtna is built to run and hunt. Although
good-natured, this dog is not an ideal option
Strong,
for owners who want a placid house pet.
arched neck

Also known as the Podenco Canario, this hound


found on all the Canary Islandshas Egyptian roots
dating back thousands of years. The breed is used as
a rabbit-hunter and is highly valued for its speed,
keen sight, and excellent nose. Sensitive and restless,
it is unlikely to adapt well to a quiet life indoors.
Red

Fleshcolored
nose

Low-set, slightly
tapered tail

Isabella, light sand

Narrow,
almost
at skull

Short,
glossy coat
Erect, rigid
ears set high
on head

Small, ambercolored
eyes

Slender,
athletic body
Sleek,
smooth coat

White
markings
on chest

Fawn

White
markings
on chest

Ibizan Hound
HEIGHT 2229in (5674cm)
WEIGHT 4451lb (2023kg)
LIFE SPAN 1012 years

Lion
Flat skull

Used in Spain as a pack dog for hunting rabbits, the Ibizan Hound can
cover the roughest ground at a raking trot characteristic of the breed.
This dog also has an enormous jump and can easily leap over a garden
fence. As long as an owner bears security in mind, the Ibizan Hound
is not difcult to keep, but it is an all-action dog that needs relentless
exercise. The breed has a charming temperament and ts in well
with family life. There are two coat typessmooth and
roughboth of which are easy to maintain.

Large, tan,
pointed ears
Lean,
muscular body

Long,
slender
muzzle

White
Clear,
amber eyes

Narrow
head

Chestnut
Long forearms
SMOOTH-COATED

ROUGH-COATED
White chest
and collar

Slender,
strong toes

33

C ATALOG OF BREEDS | PRIMITIVE DOGS

Portuguese Podengo
HEIGHT
Pequeno: 812in (2030cm)
Medio: 1621in (4054cm)
Grande: 2228in (5570cm)

WEIGHT
Pequeno: 911lb (45kg)
Medio: 3544lb (1620kg)
Grande: 4466lb (2030kg)

WIREHAIRED
PEQUENO

LIFE SPAN
Over 12 years

White, yellow
Black
White dogs have patches of yellow, black,
or fawn. Pequeno dogs may be brown.

An all-purpose hunter that makes an entertaining companion


given sufcient mental and physical activity
The national dog of Portugal, the
Portuguese Podengo is said to have originated
from dogs brought to the Iberian Peninsula
by the Phoenicians over 2,000 years ago.
Today there are three different varieties:
small (Pequeno), medium (Medio), and large
(Grande). Smooth-haired Podengos are more
commonly found in the north of the country
where the climate is damp, since their
quick-drying coat is suited to wet weather.
Wirehaired types are more commonly found
in the drier south. All varieties were
traditionally bred for hunting, and in
Portugal some are still used for that purpose.
The Portuguese, being seafaring people,
were among the rst Europeans to
explore and colonize the
Americas in the 15th and 16th
centuries, laying claim to parts
of Canada and Brazil. It is said
that the ships used for these
explorations carried Podengos,
a useful asset because they helped

SUITABLY SIZED
Bred primarily to hunt hare and rabbit, the
Portuguese Podengo is a primitive sight hound.
It was bred in three sizes so it could work in any
type of terrain. The Grande dog was developed
in south central Portugal to hunt in open areas
where speed is important. The Medio, being a
smaller and more maneuverable dog, was found
farther north where there is more cover for game.
The smallest, the Pequeno, hunts in very dense
undergrowth that would be too difcult for
larger dogs to work in effectively.

to control vermin during the voyages. On


reaching new lands, the dogs were put back
to their usual work. However, as podengo
is a general Portuguese term that refers to
any prick-eared hound, these early exports
were probably very different from the breed
recognized today.
The modern Portuguese Podengo, and
in particular the Pequeno variety, is rapidly
growing in popularity as a companion dog,
having been imported to both the UK and
the US. In contrast, the Podengo Grande has
become increasingly rare since the 1970s,
although efforts are being made to increase
its numbers again. Regardless of size, the
Podengos intelligence and alertness make
it an excellent watchdog.

White blaze
on face
Large, triangular,
erect ears

Fawn with
white markings

Short
coat
Fawn

Strong
hindquarters

SMOOTH-HAIRED MEDIO

SMOOTH-HAIRED PEQUENO

Rounded feet with


well arched toes

PRIMITIVE DOGS

Carolina Dog
HEIGHT 1820in (4550cm)
WEIGHT 3344lb (1520kg)
LIFE SPAN 1214 years

Deep red-ginger
Black and tan

Also known as the American Dingo,


this dogs ancestors are thought to have been
domesticated and brought into North America
by early settlers from Asia. In Americas
southeastern states, some still live
semi-wild. Naturally wary, this dog
needs early socializing to make it
an acceptable pet.

Triangular,
erect ears

Wheaten

Longer
hairs on
neck

Short,
dense coat
Lighter-colored
chest
Tail carried in
distinctive hook
when alert

Peruvian Inca Orchid


HEIGHT 2026in (5065cm)
WEIGHT 2651lb (1223kg)
LIFE SPAN 1112 years

The true origins of the Peruvian


Inca Orchid are lost in time, but
dogs of this type are known to have
been important in Inca civilizations.
There are two varieties of this
breed: hairless and coated. The
hairless Inca Orchid is better
suited to indoor rather than
outdoor life because of
its delicate skin.

Any color
Hairless dogs always have pink skin
but the color of mottling can vary.

Crest of hair
on head

Ears become
semierect
when alert

Straight back

Pink with
darker
mottling

HAIRLESS INCA
ORCHID
Tail sometimes
carried tucked
under belly

Front feet longer


than hind feet

35

C ATALOG OF BREEDS | PRIMITIVE DOGS

Peruvian Hairless
WEIGHT
Miniature: 918lb (48kg)
Medio: 1826lb (812kg)
Grande: 2655lb (1225kg)

HEIGHT
Miniature: 1016in (2540cm)
Medio: 1620in (4050cm)
Grande: 2026in (5065cm)

LIFE SPAN
1112 years

GRANDE

This gentle, bright, and agile dog is affectionate with


owners but may be shy when around strangers
Records of hairless dogs in South America
date back to pre-Inca times; images of
them are found on pottery dating from
750 BCE . These lively and graceful dogs were
often seen in the homes of Incan nobility.
The Andean peoples believed these
companion dogs brought good luck and
promoted health, and would hug them to
relieve aches and pains. The dogs urine and
feces may have been used in medicines.
When a person died, artifacts of hairless
dogs were sometimes buried with them to
keep the person company in the afterlife.
After the Spanish Conquest of Peru in the
16th century, hairless dogs were persecuted
almost to extinction. However, some did
survive and since 2001 the Peruvian Hairless
has been a protected breedpart of the

Blonde
Dark brown
Black

LOST IN TIME

National Patrimony of Peru. In 2008


a Peruvian Hairless was offered to
President Obama as a family pet.
Peruvian Hairless dogs come in three
sizesminiature, medio, and grande.
Hairlessnessoften accompanied by the
absence of some molar and premolar
teethis produced by a particular recessive
gene, but occasionally dogs with coats do
occur in litters. The ne skin needs some
protection since these dogs are susceptible
to the cold and easily sunburned.

The pre-Inca Nazca civilization of coastal Peru


is famous for producing the massive geoglyphs,
known collectively as the Nazca Lines. Among
the various designs and shapes, there are over
70 different animals, including a dog. Created
between 100800CE and measuring 167ft (51m)
in length, the dogs outline was produced by
removing surface gravel to expose the lighter rocks
below. It is possible that the dog depicted (below)
represents an ancestor of the Peruvian Hairless.

Crest of hairs

Rose ears

Elephant-gray
Eyes match
skin color

Fine, elastic skin

Tucked-up belly

MEDIO

MINIATURE
Pink patches
on legs

36

Long feet

Xoloitzcuintli
HEIGHT
Miniature: 1014in (2535cm)
Intermediate: 1418in (3645cm)
Standard: 1824in (4660cm)

WEIGHT
Miniature: 515lb (27kg)
Intermediate: 1531lb (714kg)
Standard: 2440lb (1118kg)

LIFE SPAN
Over 10 years

MINIATURE (PUPPY)

This calm-natured, alert dog is easy to care for and


makes a delightful and entertaining companion
Also known as the Mexican Hairless or
Xolo (pronounced sholo), hairless dogs have
featured in ceramic paintings and gurines
dating from over 3,000 years ago and been
found in the tombs of Aztec, Mayan, and
other Central American peoples.
In pre-Conquest Mexico hairless dogs
were valued companions and bed-warmers.
In addition, the dogs had sacred signicance.
The animals were used as guard dogs to
protect the home from evil spirits as well
as intruders, and they were thought to
guide the soul through the underworld.
Some dogs were sacriced or ritually eaten
in religious ceremonies; because of these
practices, hairless dogs barely escaped
extinction. It was not until the mid-20th
century that breeders began to work
toward the dogs recovery.

USEFUL COMPANION

Three sizes are now recognized: miniature,


intermediate, and standard. Like all hairless
dogs, this breed has limited general appeal
and remains a rarity. Nonetheless, the
Mexican Hairless is good-tempered,
affectionate, and highly intelligent. The
dogs are good companions and watchdogs,
and are starting to be used as service dogs
to provide relief for chronic painan echo
of their traditional role. In addition,
being hairless makes them good pets
for allergy sufferers.

Mexican Hairless dogs feel warm to the touch


because, lacking fur, they radiate their body heat.
In the past this attribute was appreciated by
farmers who used the dogs as bed-warmers.
The practice supposedly gave rise to the phrase
three dog nights for very cold
evenings. The dogs body heat
was also thought to have healing
properties and it would be held
against painful areas of the body
to provide a warm compress.

Tufts of
hair on
forehead

MEXICAN
EARTHENWARE DOG
100BCE300CE

Large, long ears,


erect when alert

Dark gray
Traces of dark
hair on tail

Red
Liver or Bronze (right)

Head has slight stop


and tapering muzzle

Firm, slender neck

Black

INTERMEDIATE

STANDARD

37

Rescue work
Baerli, a German Shepherd Dog,
explores a hole in the snow as part of
his training for avalanche search and
rescue work.

WORKING DOGS

WORKING
DOGS
The list of jobs that humans ask dogs to perform is almost endless. In the thousands of years since
dogs were domesticated, canine helpers have guarded homes, rescued people in danger, gone to
war, and looked after the sick and disabledto give just a few examples. In this book the working
group is represented by breeds traditionally developed for pastoral work and guard duties.

In general, the dogs in this highly


diverse group tend to be large, though
there are a few small but nonetheless
robust exceptions. Working dogs are
bred for strength and stamina, and
many of them are capable of living
outdoors in all weathers.
A collie rounding up its ock is for
most people the archetypal shepherd
dog, but many other types of dog
are used to work with livestock.
These pastoral breeds, as they are
known, are used for both herding
and guarding. Herding dogs have
a natural instinct for driving stock,
though not all of them work in the
same way. Border Collies (see p.51),
for example, keep their sheep in
order by stalking and staring, while
the traditional cattle herders such as
Welsh Corgis (see pp.58, 60) and the

Australian Cattle Dog (see p.62)


nip at heels, and some herders bark
as they work. Guardian sheepdogs,
which include mountain breeds such
as the Maremma (see p.69) and the
Great Pyrenees (see p.78), are
designed to protect their ocks from
predators such as wolves. Usually very
large, many of these dogs are white,
heavy-coated, and scarcely
distinguishable from the sheep they
live with and protect all their lives.
Guard duties of another kind are
often carried out by dogs of the mastiff
type, recognizable as descendants of
the enormous molossus dogs seen in
friezes and artifacts from the ancient
world. Such breeds as the Bullmastiff
(see p.94), the Dogue de Bordeaux (see
p.89), and the Neapolitan Mastiff
(see p.92) are used worldwide by

security forces and for guarding


property. Typically, these dogs are
massively built and powerful, with
small ears (often cropped in countries
where the practice is still legal) and
pendulous ews (lips).
Many working breeds are excellent
as companion dogs. Pastoral herders
are extremely intelligent and generally
easy to train, and often enjoy using
their skills in agility trials and other
canine competitions. Livestock
guardian dogs, because of their size
and protective nature, are less likely
to be suited to family life. In recent
decades a number of the mastiff-type
breeds have achieved great popularity
as companions. Although some were
produced originally for ghting, if
reared in the home and socialized
early they adapt to life as a pet.

39

C ATALOG OF BREEDS | WORKING DOGS

Wedge-shaped,
wolike head

Saarloos Wolfdog
HEIGHT 2430in (6075cm)
WEIGHT 7788lb (3540kg)
LIFE SPAN Over 10 years

Cream
Bos (brown)

The Saarloos Wolfdog is the result of selective crossbreeding to


produce a German Shepherd-type dog with natural traits closer
to those of its wolf ancestors. Although it was suggested that
this new breed could be useful as a guide dog,
the Saarloos Wolfdog
has proved better
suited to life as a
pet and companion.
However, it needs
sensitive handling.

Triangular ears with


rounded tips

Almondshaped
eyes

Wolf-gray

Body longer than


leg length
Long,
arched feet
Heavy-coated,
broad tail

King Shepherd

Czechoslovakian
Wolfdog

HEIGHT 2529in (6474cm)


WEIGHT 90145lb (4166kg)
LIFE SPAN 1011 years

HEIGHT 2426in (6065cm)


WEIGHT 4457lb (2026kg)
LIFE SPAN 1216 years

Created through breeding programs that initially crossed


German Shepherd Dogs with wolves, the Czechoslovakian
Wolfdog has inherited many of the traits of its wild ancestors.
This breed is quick, fearless, resilient, and wary of
strangers. It is also faithful and obedient with
familiar handlers, qualities that make
it an excellent house dog.
Yellowish gray

Black dogs may


Black
have red, gold, or
Sable with
black markings cream markings.

Developed in the US and recognized since the late 1990s, this


large and handsome dog clearly shows the German Shepherd
Dog (see p.42) in its breeding history. King Shepherds love to
work as herders or guard dogs, but have a placid and tolerant
nature that allows them to t in well with a family. There are
two coat types: smooth and rough.
Black saddle
with tan

Ruff of longer hair


around neck

Predominately
black muzzle

Distinctive lighter
area on face

Straight
coat
Plumed tail

Dark nails

Weather-resistant,
thick coat

ROUGH-COATED

40

White
marking
on chest

WORKING DOGS

Belgian Sheepdog

Laekenois
HEIGHT 2226in (5666cm)
WEIGHT 5565lb (2529kg)
LIFE SPAN Over 10 years

HEIGHT 2226in (5666cm)


WEIGHT 5175lb (2334kg)
LIFE SPAN Over 10 years

Of the four breeds of Belgian Shepherd Dog, this


wiry-coated variety was the rst to be developed,
in the 1880s. The Laekenois is named after the
Chteau de Laeken, near Antwerp, and was once
much favored by the Belgian royal family. Rarely
seen, this delightful dog deserves to be more
widely appreciated.

Head carried
high with alert
expression

From 1893 black-coated Belgian Sheepdogs were selectively


bred at a kennel in the village of Groenendael, near Brussels.
This handsome variety is now extremely popular. Like
Finely shaped
most herding dogs, the Belgian Sheepdog needs an
muzzle
owner who understands the importance of early
socializing and rm but kindly control.
Long, straight
coat

Wiry coat

High-set,
erect ears

Area of darker
shading

Ruff of
longer hair
around neck

Slightly
sloping rump

Reddish
fawn
Body powerful
but not heavy

Round feet

Belgian Tervuren

Belgian Malinois
HEIGHT 2226in (5666cm)
WEIGHT 6065lb (2729kg)
LIFE SPAN Over 10 years

Gray
Red
All colors have black overlay.

Believed to have originated in Malines, in Belgium, the


Malinois is a short-haired variety of the Belgian Shepherd Dog.
Like its fellow breeds, it is a natural guard dog. Although its
behavior may be unpredictable, with responsible
training the Malinois socializes well and makes
a loyal companion.
Short, straight coat
with black tips
to the hairs

Black

Long
feathering
on legs

HEIGHT 2226in (5666cm)


WEIGHT 4065lb (1829kg)
LIFE SPAN Over 10 years

Gray
All colors have black overlay.

The most popular of the Belgian Shepherd Dogs worldwide,


this variety was named after the village where it was developed
by a local breeder. The Belgian Tervuren has strong protective
instincts and is frequently used for guarding and police
work. Its beautiful, black-tipped coat sheds regularly
and needs plenty of grooming.

Triangular ears,
mostly black

Strongly muscled back


Fawn with
black overlay

Almondshaped,
brown
eyes

Black ears
and mask

Abundant
breeches on
hindquarters

Distinctive
black mask
Fawn

Rich, long
coat

Darker tip
on bushy tail

41

WORKING DOGS

German Shepherd Dog


HEIGHT
2325in
(5863cm)

WEIGHT
4988lb
(2240kg)

LIFE SPAN
Over 10 years

CANINE SUPERSTAR

Sable
Black

One of the most popular breeds worldwide, this intelligent


and versatile herding dog makes a faithful companion
This breed was developed by a German
cavalry captain, Max von Stephanitz, from
dogs used to guard and herd livestock. The
rst examples appeared in the 1880s, and
the breed was registered in Germany as the
Deutsche Schferhund (German Shepherd
Dog) in 1899; the rst registered individual
dog was a male named Horand von Grafrath.
During World War I the dogs name was
changed in the UK to Alsatian. This new
name was chosen because the rst dogs
were brought back from Alsace-Lorraine
by soldiers that had served there, and also
because the name avoided reference to
Germany; for the same reason, in the US
its name was changed to Shepherd Dog.
Soldiers from both countries were impressed
by the breeds abilities.
Highly adaptable and obedient,
the German Shepherd Dog has
proved valuable as a guard

dog and tracker, and is used by police and


armed forces worldwide. It is also employed
as a search and rescue dog and as a guide dog
for blind people.
The modern breed has a coat that can
vary from long to short. The German
Shepherd Dog has a reputation for being
erce, but dogs produced by reputable
breeders usually have a steady temperament.
These dogs need to be handled in a calm,
authoritative way so that they will not
become overly dominant, but they are brave
and willing to learn. They need plenty of
exercise and do well at jobs such as protecting
the home. If responsibly handled, they will
become loyal, faithful members
of the family.

Rescued from a WWI battleeld by US Marine


Lee Duncan, Rin Tin Tin (below) was taken to
California where Duncan trained him for lm
work. He starred in 28 Hollywood lms and
became so popular that in 1929 he received the
most votes for the Best Actor Oscar. However,
the Academy, fearing that giving the award to
an animal would undermine their credibility,
instead gave it to the runner-up. Rin Tin Tin
died in 1932, but some of his descendants,
trained by Duncan, also appeared in movies.

Head has clean-cut


appearance

Large, rm,
erect ears
PUPPY

Bicolor
Croup
slopes slightly
downward to tail

Black and tan

Dense coat with


thick undercoat

Strong
hindquarters

Black blanket

Long forelegs
straight to
elbow
LONGHAIRED

SHORT-HAIRED
Bushy tail

43

C ATALOG OF BREEDS | WORKING DOGS

Finely shaped head


hidden by long hair

Picardy Sheepdog
HEIGHT 2226in (5565cm)
WEIGHT 5171lb (2332kg)
LIFE SPAN 1314 years

Dark gray
Fawn-brindle
May have white markings.

The history of the Picardy


Sheepdog is uncertain, but
this tough-looking breed may
have originated over a century
ago in the Picardy region of
northeastern France. With
quiet and patient training,
this dog makes a sociable
companion and a good
playmate for children.
The rugged coat
is relatively easy
to groom.

High-set,
erect ears

Fawn

Long eyebrows do
not obscure eyes

Hair on
muzzle forms
mustache and
beard

Lighter hair
on chest

Thick coat,
coarse and
rough to touch
Long tail curves
slightly at tip

Dutch Shepherd Dog


HEIGHT 2224in (5562cm)
WEIGHT 6668lb (3031kg)
LIFE SPAN 1214 years

Coarse eyebrows

Fawn-brindle

Not often seen outside the Netherlands, and relatively uncommon


even there, in the last 200 years this breed has become far more
than an all-purpose farm dog. The breed has been used for
security and police work, as a guide dog, and in obedience trials.
Reliable and affectionate with family members, it has a natural
wariness of strangers. There are three varieties
of the Dutch Shepherd Dog: long-haired,
Erect ears
short-haired, and rough-haired.

SHORT-HAIRED

Silver-brindle

Feathering on
underside of tail

Coarse, wavy coat

Light feathering
on back of legs
Shorter hair below
hock on hind legs

LONG-HAIRED

44

ROUGH-HAIRED

WORKING DOGS

Mudi
HEIGHT 1519in (3847cm)
WEIGHT 1829lb (813kg)
LIFE SPAN 1314 years

Fawn
Blue merle, ash
May have white markings.

Originally used as a working dog by Hungarian


sheep- and cattle-herders, this rare breed is tough,
bold, and energetic. With its
friendly and adaptable nature,
the Mudi makes a good house
dog. It needs plenty of exercise to
stay t and healthy, and responds
well to sympathetic training.

Brown

Erect ears
covered with
thick hair
Wedge-shaped
head

Black
Feathered
backs to legs

Shorter hair
below hock

Dense, shiny,
wavy coat

Bushy
eyebrows

Standard Schnauzer
HEIGHT 1820in (4550cm)
WEIGHT 3144lb (1420kg)
LIFE SPAN Over 10 years

Black

The medium-sized Standard Schnauzer was established


as a breed in the 1880s in southern Germany. Alert and
agile, the Standard Schnauzer was used primarily as a
versatile farm dog with a formidable
reputation for rat hunting.
High-set,
Placid and affectionate, but
drop ears
with a lively sense of fun,
the breed is now popular
as a family dog.

Straight back

Salt and
pepper

Lighter-colored
beard

Short, wiry
coat

Longer hair extends


over feet
Lightercolored hair
on lower legs

45

C ATALOG OF BREEDS | WORKING DOGS

Giant Schnauzer
HEIGHT
2428in
(6070cm)

WEIGHT
6590lb
(2941kg)

LIFE SPAN
Over 10 years

Pepper and salt

Even-tempered, intelligent, and easy to train, this


powerful dog has strong guarding instincts
Robust and powerfully built, the Giant
Schnauzer from southern Germany was
developed from the standard Schnauzer (see
p.45) by crossing with larger local dogs and,
it is thought, with breeds such as the Great
Dane (see p.96) and the Bouvier des
Flandres (opposite).
The Giant Schnauzer, with its powerful
frame and weather-resistant coat, was
originally used for farm work and for
herding and driving cattle. By the early 20th
century the breeds intelligence, trainability,
and impressive appearance had been
recognized as ideal qualities for a guard dog.
Giant Schnauzers were rst brought to the

SAFE AND SOUND

US in the 1930s and to the UK in the 1960s.


The breed has become more popular in the
US and Europe since the 1970s.
The Giant Schnauzer is now widely used
by security forces in Europe as a police dog
and for tracking and search and rescue
duties. An equable temperament also makes
it suitable as a home watchdog and family
pet. Despite its size, the Giant Schnauzer
is easy to manage if given plenty of exercise.
A quick learner, it excels at obedience and
agility activities. Its dense, wiry, doublelayered coat needs regular maintenance,
with daily grooming and trimming
(shaping) every few months.

This stamp, issued in East Germany in the late


1970s, shows a typical working Giant Schnauzer
with clipped ears and a docked tail. In the years
leading up to World War I, the Giant Schnauzer
was found to be well suited to police work
its large size and impressive bark proving an
excellent deterrent to trouble. Despite the
breeds popularity in Germany, the preferred
choice for this type of work in other countries
tended to be
the German
Shepherd.

EAST GERMAN
STAMP ISSUED
LATE 1970S

Dark eyes
Bushy eyebrows
overhang eyes
Drop ears with
rounded tips
Tail carried
high

Black

Dense,
wiry coat

Bearded
muzzle

Deep chest

Slight feathering
on back of forelegs

46

Strong,
graceful neck

Bouvier des Flandres


HEIGHT
2327in
(5968cm)

WEIGHT
6088lb
(2740kg)

LIFE SPAN
Over 10 years

Variety of colors
May have small, white star on chest.

PRESIDENTIAL DOGS
One of the largest dogs to live at the White
House was Lucky, a Bouvier des Flandres puppy
given to Nancy Reagan in December 1984.
As Lucky matured, she also became stronger
and more boisterous. She started to drag the
president around during press photo shoots
(below), which did not give the impression of a
leader in control. In November 1985 Lucky was
sent to live at the Reagans California ranch and
was replaced by a smaller, more manageable
English Toy Spaniel named Rex.

Loyal and fearless, this independent dog does well in town or


country but needs plenty of space and an experienced owner
The Bouvier breeds were developed in
Belgium and northern France for herding,
guarding, and driving cattle; the French
word bouvier means cowherd. Of the
various Bouviers, the Bouvier des Flandres
is the most commonly encountered.
During World War I they were used
as messenger dogs and ambulance dogs
(guiding medical helpers to wounded men),
but Flanders was devastated by the ghting,
and the breed itself was almost destroyed.
One dog that survived was a male named
Nic, which became a founding sire of the
modern breed. When Nic was presented

at the Olympic Show in Antwerp, Belgium,


in 1920, he was recognized as the ideal type
of Bouvier. During the 1920s breeders
worked to resurrect the Bouvier des Flandres.
Today the breed is valued as a guard dog
and a family pet. Calm and easy to train, it
nevertheless has strong protective instincts
and is still used for military and police
work, and as a search and rescue dog. Despite
originally being an outdoor dog, the Bouvier
des Flandres can adjust to an urban home,
as long as it has plenty of exercise every day.
The coat needs to be groomed several times a
week and trimmed every three months.

High-set,
drop ears

Heavily
feathered tail

Silver-brindle

Long,
coarse beard

Very thick coat,


coarse to touch

Dense coat
extends
over feet

47

C ATALOG OF BREEDS | WORKING DOGS

Bouvier des Ardennes


HEIGHT 2024in (5262cm)
WEIGHT 4977lb (2235kg)
LIFE SPAN Over 10 years

Ears slightly
darker than body

Variety of colors

This hardy, active, former cattle herder from the Belgian


Ardennes is now rarely seen, either as a working dog or a house dog.
A handful of enthusiasts have kept the breed in existence, and with
its adaptable temperament and zest for life the Bouvier des
Ardennes has the potential
for future popularity.

Body length equals


leg length

Blackedged
lips

Erect,
pointed
ears
Black

Coarse mustache
and beard

Tousled coat,
dry to touch

Fawn

Rounded
feet

Sarplaninac

Croatian
Shepherd Dog

HEIGHT Over 23in (58cm)


WEIGHT 6699lb (3045kg)
LIFE SPAN 1113 years

HEIGHT 1620in (4050cm)


WEIGHT 2944lb (1320kg)
LIFE SPAN 1314 years

Relatively small and lightly built for a shepherd


dog, this breed is active and alert. Easy to train for
work, the Croatian Shepherd Dog may be harder
to handle as a house dog because of its natural
herding and guarding instincts. Its unusually
wavy or curly coat is a distinctive feature.

Narrow
muzzle

Brown

Wavy coat

Shorter
hair on
lower legs

48

Longer hair
forms ruff
around neck

Broad, slightly
rounded top
to head

Erect, triangular ears,


lined with long hair
Short hair
on face

Formerly known as the Illyrian Shepherd Dog, this impressive


breed is now named after the Sarplanina Mountains of Macedonia
where it originated. The Sarplaninac is very much an outdoor,
working dog. Although it has a sociable though protective
temperament, its size and energy levels make it impractical
as a family pet.
Drop ears
Heavily
feathered,
bushy tail

Black

Any solid color

Backs of
legs slightly
feathered

Long,
dense coat

Lighter
lower legs

WORKING DOGS

Estrela
Mountain Dog

Karst
Shepherd Dog
HEIGHT 2125in (5463cm)
WEIGHT 5593lb (2542kg)
LIFE SPAN 1112 years

HEIGHT 2428in (6272cm)


WEIGHT 77132lb (3560kg)
LIFE SPAN Over 10 years

A livestock guardian from the Estrela Mountains of Portugal, this


fearless, rugged dog was bred to protect ocks against predators
such as wolves. The Estrela Mountain Dog is a loyal and friendly
but strong-willed companion that needs consistent and patient
obedience training. There are long-coated and short-coated
varieties of the breed.

Formerly known as the Illyrian Shepherd Dog, this dog was


separated from another breed of the same name and renamed
the Karst, or Istrian, Shepherd Dog in the 1960s. Used for
herding and guarding in the alpine Karst region of
Slovenia, this excellent working dog can make
a good companion with careful training
and early socialization.

Black hairs intermingle


with fawn hairs

Hair on neck forms


ruff and mane

Fawn
Long head
with broad,
rounded skull

Iron-gray

Head as wide
as it is long

Dark face mask

Flat, long coat


Long,
bushy tail

Lighter
gray
markings
Thick, slightly
wavy topcoat

Dark streak
on front of
limbs

Portuguese
Watchdog
HEIGHT 2529in (6474cm)
WEIGHT 77132lb (3560kg)
LIFE SPAN 12 years

LONGCOATED

Thick ruff
around
neck and
chest

Castro
Laboreiro Dog
Wolf-gray
Black
Coat may be brindled; white coats have
colored patches.

Possibly descended from the powerful mastiffs brought into


Europe from Asia by nomadic herders, this breed is also known
as the Rafeiro de Alentejo, named after the Alentejo region
of Portugal. Traditionally used for guarding, the
Portuguese Watchdog is vigilant and suspicious
of strangers. Formidable in size and strength,
though not aggressive, this dog is unsuitable
for novice handlers.
Triangular,
drop ears

Wolf-gray or Black brindle


Underside and extremities may have
white markings.

HEIGHT 2125in (5564cm)


WEIGHT 5588lb (2540kg)
LIFE SPAN 1213 years

May have a small white spot on chest.

Named after its home village in the mountains of northern


Portugal, this dog, sometimes known as the Portuguese Cattle Dog,
was bred to work as a livestock-guardian. Its distinctive alarm bark
starts low and ends high-pitched. This dog
Triangular, drop ears
develops a strong bond with family
Short, very thick,
members but may be hostile
coarse-textured coat
to strangers.

Black
lips

Straight,
dense coat

Wolf-gray

Almondshaped eyes

Tail long-haired
on underside,
usually carried low

Tail slightly
curved at tip
Broad chest
Fawn
with white
markings

Mountain
brindle

49

C ATALOG OF BREEDS | WORKING DOGS

Catalan Sheepdog

Portuguese Sheepdog
HEIGHT 1722in (4255cm)
WEIGHT 3760lb (1727kg)
LIFE SPAN 1213 years

HEIGHT 1822in (4555cm)


WEIGHT 4460lb (2027kg)
LIFE SPAN 1214 years

Variety of colors
May have a small amount
of white on chest.

Gray
Sable
May have white markings.

Black and tan

Bred in Catalonia, Spain, as a ock-herder and guard, this hardy


dog has an attractive weatherproof coat that allows it to work in
almost any conditions. With high intelligence, a quiet temperament,
and a readiness to please, the Catalan Sheepdog is relatively easy to
train and makes an excellent family companion.

In its native country this shaggy, agile dog is sometimes known as


the monkey dog. The Portuguese Sheepdog loves to be outdoors,
herding. Lively and extremely intelligent, the breed has also gained
popularity as a companion and sporting dog in Portugal, although
it is little known elsewhere.

Crest on
top of head
Shaggy coat
resembles
goat hair

Fawn

Roughtextured coat

Black

Large eyebrows
do not obscure
eyes

Fringed ears hang


close to head

Round, dark
amber eyes
Long
beard and
mustache

Fawn
Long hair
extends
over feet

Tan markings
on lower legs

Pyrenean Sheepdog
HEIGHT 1519in (3848cm)
WEIGHT 1531lb (714kg)
LIFE SPAN 1213 years

Small and lightly built for a sheepdog,


this breed has long been used for herding
ocks in the French Pyrenees. It
remained almost unknown beyond
its native mountain regions until the
beginning of the 20th century. Lithe,
energetic, and ready to join in any
interesting activity, the Pyrenean
Sheepdog does well in canine
sports such as agility trials. For
an active family, the Pyrenean
Sheepdog is an excellent pet.
The breed comes in two
coat varietieslong or
semi-longand may
have a rough or
smooth face.
SEMI-LONG,
SMOOTH-FACED

50

Gray
Blue
Black

SEMI-LONG,
ROUGH-FACED

Black and white


Blue coats may be merle, slate, or
brindle. Unmixed colors are preferred.

Fawn

Long, swept-back hair


on face and cheeks

Coat woollier on
hindquarters

White
markings
on chest

Fawn
with black
hairs

LONG-HAIRED,
ROUGH-FACED

Long hair on
legs extends
over toes

WORKING DOGS

Border Collie
HEIGHT
2021in
(5053cm)

WEIGHT
2644lb
(1220kg)

FOREVER FAITHFUL

LIFE SPAN
Over 10 years

Variety of
colors

This superintelligent dog needs an experienced owner


and plenty of physical and mental activity
The Border Collies reputation as the
quintessential sheepdog reaches far beyond
the English-Scottish border where it
originated. Almost all Border Collies are
descended from a dog named Old Hemp,
born in Northumbria (northern England) in
1894. Old Hemp was such a good sheepdog
that many other farmers wanted pups sired
by him; he had more than 200 offspring.
When herding sheep a Border Collie
works quickly and silently, responding
immediately to voice, whistle, or hand
commands from the shepherd. The dogs
are used to round up sheep, to move them
from pasture to pasture or pen, and to
isolate individual animals, if necessary.

Primarily a working dog, the Border Collie


was not ofcially recognized as a breed by
the Kennel Club in the UK until 1976.
Tireless energy, a low boredom threshold,
and an independent spirit mean that the
Border Collie needs plenty of physical and
mental challenges every day if kept as a pet.
Many take part in dog agility competitions.
These competitions, which started in the
UK in 1978, require owners to train and
direct their dogs to pass through a course
of obstacles. Border Collies excel in this
activity as, just like when herding sheep,
they rapidly follow their owners commands.
There are two varieties of coat: moderately
long and smooth.

The town of Benton, Montana, is perhaps


best known for a dog that kept a six-year vigil
for his shepherd owner. The shepherd became
sick and died after coming to the town hospital
for treatment in 1936. The dog saw his cofn
loaded on to a train
and from that
point the
dognamed Old
Shep by station
staffmet each
incoming train,
looking for
his master. His
devotion became
famous. In 1942
Old Shep was
killed by a train.
He was buried
on the bluff
overlooking the
station, where a
memorial to him
was erected.
BRONZE STATUE OF
OLD SHEP IN FORT
BENTON, MONTANA

Distinct stop
Low-set tail
reaches hock

Black
and white

Muscular,
athletic body

Ears set
well apart

MODERATELY
LONG COAT
Feathering
on forelegs

51

C ATALOG OF BREEDS | WORKING DOGS

Collie
HEIGHT
2024in
(5161cm)

WEIGHT
5175lb
(2334kg)

LIFE SPAN
1214 years

Gold
Blue merle
Gold and white

Black, tan, and white

This proud and beautiful, sweet-tempered dog makes a loyal


family companion but needs plenty of exercise
This rich-coated breed, a descendant of
the rather less-rened Scottish working
shepherd dogs, is much admired today
as a pet and in the show ring. The Collies
history may go back as far as Roman
Britain, but dogs recognizably of this type
did not attract wide attention until the
19th century. Queen Victoria is credited
with popularizing the breed both in Europe
and the US. Later, Lassie, the highly
intelligent star of lm and television,
conrmed the Collies status as one
of the best-loved dogs of all time.
This breed is mild-tempered and tolerant
of other dogs and pets. It is highly responsive
to training and makes an affectionate and
protective companion. However, the
people-loving Collie readily accepts visitors
to the home and therefore does not make
a good guard dog. An athletic breed, it is
eager for fun and will take part eagerly in
canine sports such as agility trials.

Profuse
feathering on
hindquarters

The herding instinct has not been


entirely bred out of Collies; their sharp
awareness of movement may trigger an
impulse to round up friends and family.
Early socializing can prevent this trait
from becoming a nuisance.
Like all breeds originally intended as
working dogs, the Collie becomes restless
when underexercised or left alone for long
periods, and may start to bark excessively.
However, given an energetic daily run,
it can be kept in a modest-sized house
or even an apartment.
This dogs long, thick coat needs
regular grooming to prevent
tangles and matting. More
frequent grooming sessions
may be needed when
the dense undercoat
is being shed,
which occurs
twice a year.

LASSIETHE FAITHFUL FRIEND


The rst Lassie lm, Lassie Come
Home, was based on a book in
which Lassies poor owners sell
her to a rich duke, but the dog
escapes and makes a long,
dangerous trek to return to her
family home. Several more
lms and a TV series followed,
showing Lassies bravery and
loyalty to her human friends.
Despite the girls name, all of
the canine actors were male.
The original dog, Pal, was
actually rather badly behaved
before he was trained for his
life in the movies.

A POSTER FROM THE 1994 FILM

52

Feathered tail

Smooth hair
below hock

WORKING DOGS

Semierect ears
Dark eyes with
intelligent, inquisitive
expression

Smooth-haired face
PUPPY

Abundant
white mane

Long, very dense,


coarse-textured coat

Long, lean,
tapering head

Sable and white

53

C ATALOG OF BREEDS | WORKING DOGS

Smooth Collie
HEIGHT
2024in
(5161cm)

WEIGHT
4066lb
(1830kg)

LIFE SPAN
Over 10 years

A HELPING HAND
Dogs have been used for many years to assist
blind, deaf, and disabled people, but there is
now a new way to help those suffering
with Alzheimers Disease. Choosing Smooth
Collies to do this work has proved enormously
successful. The dogs are trained to guide their
owner home or remain with them until help
arrives (below)they carry a GPS on their
harness to locate them. Loyal and devoted,
these trained dogs are unusual because they
often work without any commands from their
owner and are also able to cope with the mood
swings associated with the condition.

Sable and white


Black, tan, and white

This increasingly rare collie is calm and friendly, making


it ideal for the elderly or families with young children
Recognized as a breed in its own
right, the Smooth Collie shares many
physical features with the Collie (see p.52).
Both breeds are descended from Scottish
farm and herding dogs. Early Collies were
smaller than todays dogs, with shorter
muzzles, but during the 19th century
breeders created a taller, more elegant
animal for the show ring. As with the
Collie, the breed was promoted by Queen
Victoria who kept both Collies and Smooth
Collies in her kennels.
Today the Smooth Collie is less wellknown than its rough-haired counterpart.
In the UK the Kennel Club has listed it as a

One or both eyes


may be blue
in blue merles

Vulnerable Native Breed, signifying a breed


that registers fewer than 300 new animals
per year; in 2010 just 54 new dogs were
registered. The breed is even less familiar
in other countries.
The Smooth Collie is sometimes used
as a sheepdog or watchdog but is also a
good house dog that enjoys being with
people. Mild-mannered and friendly, it
needs plenty of company, exercise, and
mental stimulation. The breed, like the
Collie, does well in agility and obedience
competitions. The short-haired coat is
easy to maintain, needing little more
than regular brushing.

Ears semierect
when alert

Muzzle
rounded
at end

Long tail
reaches
hock joint

Short, dense,
coarse coat
Characteristic
white collar
and chest

Blue merle

Oval feet with


arched toes

54

WORKING DOGS

Shetland Sheepdog
HEIGHT 1415in (3538cm)
WEIGHT 1337lb (617kg)
LIFE SPAN Over 10 years

Sable
Blue merle
Black and tan

First bred in the rugged Shetland Islands,


beyond the northern coast of mainland
Scotland, this miniature collie is
hardy and resilient. Bursting with
energy but easily trained and
affectionate, the Shetland
Sheepdog adapts well to
family life and is a loyal
pet. Regular grooming
sessions are necessary
to maintain the
beautiful coat.

Black and white

Close-set ears
Long,
thick coat

Tricolor

Black rim
around eyes

Smooth
hair on
face

Longhaired tail

Dense mane

Briard
HEIGHT 2327in (5869cm)
WEIGHT 77lb (35kg)
LIFE SPAN Over 10 years

In its native country this large


and lively French breed works as a
herder and guarder of sheep. Bold
and protective, but not aggressive,
the Briard is an excellent family
companion if given regular exercise
and room to run and play. This is
not a low-maintenance dog, since
the Briards long, thick coat
needs a lot of grooming.

Darker hairs
blend in with
main body color

Slate-gray
Black

Eyebrows fall
over eyes
Fawn

Short, high-set,
long-haired ears

Black nose

Long, owing,
slightly wavy coat

Strong,
muscular legs

55

C ATALOG OF BREEDS | WORKING DOGS

Old English Sheepdog


HEIGHT
2224in
(5661cm)

WEIGHT
6099lb
(2745kg)

LIFE SPAN
Over 10 years

THE DULUX DOG


To many English-speaking people around the
world, the Old English Sheepdog has become
synonymous with Dulux, the international paint
brand. The rst Dulux advertisements featuring
the dog appeared in 1961; it was felt that the big,
uffy dog would give the lm sets an appealing
family home feel. The dogs have been the stars of
the shows for over 50 years, and some even had
their own chauffeurs. They and the brand made
each other world famous; today, Old English
Sheepdogs are often recognized as
Dulux dogs.

Gray
Any shade of gray or blue. Body and hindquarters
of solid color, with no white patches.

This good-tempered and intelligent dog needs frequent


grooming to maintain its shaggy coat
Native to southwest England, the Old
English Sheepdog is descended from large,
strong dogs used to guard livestock against
wolves, as well as from the Bearded Collie
(opposite), and, possibly, breeds such as the
South Russian Shepherd Dog (opposite).
By the mid-19th century the dogs were
being used to drive livestock to market. It
was customary to dock the tail (bob it), to
show that the animal was a working dog and
thus exempt from tax; the alternative name
of Bobtail Sheepdog is still sometimes used.
The breed was highly popular in the
1970s and 80s, due to its use in movies
and advertisements, but more

recently it has fallen out of favor; in 2012


only 316 new dogs were registered with
the UKs Kennel Club, prompting the Club
to put the Old English Sheepdog on its
watch list of endangered breeds.
This big, strong dog requires a great deal
of exercise. The coat always has been dense
and shaggy; in the old days shepherds would
shear their dogs as well as the sheep and use
the hair to make cloth. However, modern
animals coats have become so thick that
they need constant care to prevent them
from becoming tangled and matted.

Eyes obscured
by coat

Small ears
covered by coat

Deep, relatively
short body

Longer coat on
hindquarters

Very thick,
shaggy coat
with white
markings

Blue

56

White markings on
head, neck, and chest

WORKING DOGS

Bearded Collie
HEIGHT 2022in (5156cm)
WEIGHT 4455lb (2025kg)
LIFE SPAN Over 10 years

Sandy
Red-brown
Blue

Black

Until the middle of the 20th century the Bearded Collie was
familiar only in Scotland and the north of England, where it
was valued as a sheepdog. Now widely appreciated for its attractive
appearance, compact size, and gentle nature, this breed has
great appeal as a pet. However, it is more likely to enjoy the
space of a rural home than a compact urban environment.

Arched
eyebrows do
not cover eyes

Long
outer coat

Long
mustache
on muzzle

Polish Lowland
Sheepdog
HEIGHT 1720in (4250cm)
WEIGHT 3135lb (1416kg)
LIFE SPAN 1215 years

Bred to work on the plainlands of Northern Europe as a herder and


a guard dog, this delightfully shaggy dog is both rugged and agile.
The breed has brains as well as brawn and responds readily to
training for a variety of purposes. Exercise and grooming
should be high on its owners agenda.
Thick, long, uffy
coat, fades with age

Slate-gray

Any color

Black and tan

Long hair falls


over eyes

Heart-shaped,
drop ears
hidden by hair

Large
nose

Blunt
muzzle

White
collar

Ovalshaped
feet

Toes hairy
between pads

South Russian
Shepherd Dog

Dutch Schapendoes
HEIGHT 1620in (4050cm)
WEIGHT 2644lb (1220kg)
LIFE SPAN 1314 years

Any color

Swift, tireless, and intelligent, this breed is the perfect natural


sheep herder. Moving as if on springs, a working Dutch
Schapendoes can run at high speed and bound lightly over
almost any obstacle in its path. The breed has the temperament
to make a good companion but will not thrive without activity.
Heavily feathered,
long tail

Long topknot of hair


partially covers eyes

Full mustache
and beard

HEIGHT 2426in (6265cm)


WEIGHT 106110lb (4850kg)
LIFE SPAN 911 years

Ashen gray
Straw
Yellow and white

This big sheepdog from the Russian steppes was bred not to round
up ocks but to guard them against erce predators. Quick to react,
naturally dominant, and highly protective, this breed, also known
as the Ovtcharka (sheep herder in Russian), needs
an owner who can establish authority early on.
Long, dense
coat with
coarse texture
Elongated head
with broad
forehead

Black and
white

Triangular,
drop ears
Abundant,
slightly
wavy coat

White

Feet covered
with long
hair

57

WORKING DOGS

Pembroke Welsh Corgi


HEIGHT
1012in
(2530cm)

WEIGHT
2026lb
(912kg)

LIFE SPAN
1215 years

Fawn and sable

A sharp and condent watchdog with a big bark for its size,
this dog makes a good family pet if given enough exercise
The more widely known of the two
Corgi breeds, the Pembroke Welsh Corgi is
distinguished from the Cardigan Welsh Corgi
(see p.60) by its slightly smaller ears, lighter
build, ner features, and, in some dogs, lack
of tail. The Pembroke Welsh Corgi
is the younger of the two, even though its
ancestry has been traced back to 1107, when
Flemish weavers and farmers rst imported
dogs from Europe into western Wales. The
two breeds were crossed for a time in the
19th century, but the Pembroke Welsh Corgi
was recognized as a separate breed in 1934.
Corgis have a long
history as cattle
herders and guard
dogs in Wales. Their
low-slung shape and
general agility made

FIT FOR A QUEEN


The British royal family is well known for its
love of dogsand no breed is more closely
associated with the Windsors than the Pembroke
Welsh Corgi. King George VI, father of the
reigning monarch, Queen Elizabeth II, acquired
the rst royal corgi, Rozavel Golden Eagle
(Dookie), in 1933. The Queen has owned
and bred Pembroke Welsh Corgis since she
was 18 years old. One of her dogs, Monty
(now deceased), starred with her in a James
Bond movie sequence at the opening ceremony
of the 2012 London Olympics.

them ideally suited to driving cattle, sheep,


and ponies to market by nipping at their
heels. Today, these alert and active little
dogs are still used occasionally in herding
and dog agility events. Pembroke Welsh
Corgis make excellent watchdogs and
enjoy family life, but they may revert to
their herding instincts and nip ankles, a
tendency that can be minimized by early
training. Corgis have a tendency to gain
weight easily so need a regulated regime
of diet and exercise.
The Pembroke Welsh Corgi is notable
for having a feature called a fairy saddle
an area over the shoulders where the
fur grows in a different thickness and
direction from the rest of the coat. The
name derives from the legend that fairies
used these dogs as their steeds.
Erect ears
rounded at tips

Foxlike
head with
typical
markings

PUPPY

Black and tan

Level topline

Fairy saddle
Red

White
markings
on chest
Broad, deep,
white chest

Oval feet with


inner toes longer
than outer toes

59

C ATALOG OF BREEDS | WORKING DOGS

Cardigan Welsh Corgi


HEIGHT 1112in (2831cm)
WEIGHT 2437lb (1117kg)
LIFE SPAN 1215 years

Any color
White markings, if present, should not dominate.

The two varieties of Welsh Corgi were classied as


separate breeds in the 1930s. Less popular as a house dog
than its relative, the Pembroke Welsh Corgi (see p.58),
the Cardigan Welsh Corgi
can be distinguished by
Large, erect ears,
its larger round ears and
rounded at tips
longer body. Full of
character, it ts well
Foxlike head
into a small home.

Coarse-textured,
short coat

Relatively long,
low-slung body

Long, heavy tail


Short,
sturdy
legs

Brindle
Large,
rounded feet

Swedish Vallhund
HEIGHT 1214in (3135cm)
WEIGHT 2635lb (1216kg)
LIFE SPAN 1214 years

Steel-gray
Red
Red and gray coats may be mixed with brown or yellow.

Like the Welsh Corgis (above and p.58), which at rst glance
it closely resembles, the Swedish Vallhund was used as
a cattle-herding dog. This tough and workmanlike breed
continues to make itself useful on Swedish farms.
Uncommon as a house dog, it is gradually becoming more
widely known and appreciated for its happy personality.

Wedge-shaped,
long head
Straight back

Erect, pointed
ears
Dense,
harsh-textured
topcoat

Thick,
muscular
neck

White markings
on chest
Grayish
yellow
Oval feet

60

WORKING DOGS

New Zealand Huntaway


HEIGHT 2024in (5061cm)
WEIGHT 4066lb (1830kg)
LIFE SPAN 1214 years

Bright-eyed,
alert expression

Tricolor
Dark brindle
Currently may still appear in other colors.

The New Zealand Huntaway lacks a breed standard and is not recognized
by any kennel club due to its mixed breeding, which may include German
Shepherd (see p.42), Rottweiler (see p.83), and Border Collie (see p.51).
Developed in New Zealand to be a working sheepdog, it is an excellent
worker and is also gaining popularity as a house dog.

Short,
thick coat

Typical tan
markings

Black
and tan

Long, strong legs

Large feet

Australian Kelpie
HEIGHT 1720in (4351cm)
WEIGHT 2444lb (1120kg)
LIFE SPAN 1014 years

The Australian Kelpie was developed


to work as a sheepdog in the vast open
expanses of Australia. Energetic and
agile, the breed has seemingly endless
reserves of stamina and a low boredom
threshold. An all-action dog, it
is best suited to a working life
where its herding skills can
be put to full use.

Variety of colors

Short, thick,
water-resistant coat
Thick, brushlike,
slightly curved tail

Foxlike head

Chocolate
Fine-boned but
muscular legs

61

C ATALOG OF BREEDS | WORKING DOGS

Australian Cattle Dog


HEIGHT
1720in
(4351cm)

WEIGHT
3140lb
(1418kg)

LIFE SPAN
Over 10 years

Strong, hardy, and workmanlike, this trustworthy


herding dog is a little wary of strangers
Once widely used for cattle driving
and guarding, this breed is also called the
Australian Heeler. It originated in the 19th
century when herdsmen needed a dog that
could manage semi-wild cattle on vast
ranches and run for long distances in rough
terrain and intense heat. In the 1840s a
rancher named Thomas Hall crossed some
collies with dingos, creating the Halls
heeler (the name heeler referring to the
dogs tendency to drive cattle by nipping
at their heels). These dogs were, in turn,
crossed with Dalmatians (see p.286), Bull
Terriers (see p.197), and Kelpies (a blackand-tan herding breed). The Australian
Cattle Dog breed nally became established
in the 1890s.
The crossbreeding had resulted in a dog
with strong herding instincts, the tough,
quiet nature of a dingo, and the Dalmatians
ability to work alongside horses. Many still
have the blue-merle coloring of their collie

ancestors. The breed is notable for its


tireless, easy gait and ability to produce
sudden bursts of speed.
The Australian Cattle Dog has many
merits as a family dog, being hardy, alert,
and loyal to its owner. An ancestry that
includes the dingo has, however, made the
breed naturally suspicious of strangers. Bred
to work strenuous days and cover long
distances, it requires plenty of exercise.
Ideally, the dog needs rm handling and
work to make use of its mental and physical
energy, otherwise it will become bored and
stubborn. Training is not difcult because the
dog is highly intelligent and willing to
please; it excels in herding, obedience,
and agility activities.

Long, broad,
muscular
hindquarters

Low-set tail
hangs in a
slight curve
Coat longer and
thicker on neck

Red speckle

62

Round feet
with strong,
arched toes

WORKING DOGS

Drop ears

Pronounced stop

PUPPY

Tan markings
on throat

Blue

LONGEST-LIVED DOG
Australian Cattle Dogs are known for being
robust and healthybut one, called Bluey, holds
the Guinness World Record as the longest-lived
dog. Bluey was born in June 1910 and was
owned by Australian couple Les and Esma
Hall. The dog worked for more than 20 years
herding sheep and cattle (as below) on a diet
of kangaroo and emu meat. He was nally put
down in November 1939, at the age of 29 years,
5 months, and 7 days.

Distinctive tan
markings on legs

63

C ATALOG OF BREEDS | WORKING DOGS

Lancashire Heeler
HEIGHT 1012in (2530cm)
WEIGHT 915lb (47kg)
LIFE SPAN 15 years

Liver and tan

Intelligent, tough, and workmanlike, the


Lancashire Heeler is well suited to its original
use as a cattle herder in the north of England.
The breed may have been the result of crosses
between the Pembroke Welsh
Corgi (see p.58) and the
Manchester Terrier (see
p.212). Less inclined to
be nippy than other
heelers, this goodlooking little dog
ts well with families
if trained carefully.

Tan spots above


eyes and on cheeks

Tail curves over


back when alert

Firm body with


level back

Black
and tan

Short,
glossy
coat

Small, rounded feet


Tan-colored legs

Bergamasco
HEIGHT 2124in (5462cm)
WEIGHT 5784lb (2638kg)
LIFE SPAN Over 10 years

Light fawn and Isabella


Black
May have white markings.

A sheepdog and guard dog, the powerful Bergamasco was bred for a
tough, outdoor life in the northern Italian mountains. Its weatherproof
coat is thick, greasy to the touch, and easily becomes matted, but once
the coat becomes ocked, grooming time is
greatly reduced. The Bergamasco
is companionable and loyal
but needs rm control.
Pronounced

Broad, straight back

Gray

stop on skull
covered by hair

Tail carried
low

Flocked
coat

64

WORKING DOGS

Pumi

Dense, wiry
tufts on ears

HEIGHT 1519in (3847cm)


WEIGHT 1833lb (815kg)
LIFE SPAN 1213 years

Cream
Gray
Gold

Developed in Hungary during


the 18th century, the Pumi is a
cross between the Hungarian Puli
(below) and terrier-type dogs from
Germany and France. An excellent
herder of livestock and a good
all-around farm dog, the Pumi has
proved to be equally successful
as a house dog. Bold and restless,
this breed thrives on action.

Small, white markings may


occur on chest and toes.

Narrow,
terrierlike
head

Black
High-set tail

Thick,
curly coat
Well-muscled,
lean body

Hungarian Puli
HEIGHT 1417in (3644cm)
WEIGHT 2233lb (1015kg)
LIFE SPAN Over 12 years

Thought to have been brought


into central Europe by the
nomadic Magyar tribes of
Asia, the Hungarian Puli was
traditionally used as a herding
dog. Affectionate and quick
to learn, it makes a good
family pet but gets bored
easily without fun and
company. Its corded coat
needs special attention.

White
Gray
Fawn

May have small, white


markings on chest and feet.

Eyes covered by
long, corded coat

Small, black
nose

Profusely coated
tail curls over back

Straight,
muscular back

Black

Coat forms
long cords

Short,
round feet

65

C ATALOG OF BREEDS | WORKING DOGS

Komondor
HEIGHT
2431in
(6080cm)

WEIGHT
79135lb
(3661kg)

LIFE SPAN
Under 10 years

Not for novices, this large, powerful dog needs an experienced


owner who will give it time and attention
The Komondor is descended from guard
dogs brought to Hungary by a people called
the Cumans, as they migrated westward
from what is now China to the Danube
basin. The earliest written evidence of dogs
of this type dates from the mid-16th century,
but they may have existed for centuries
earlier. It was not until the early 20th
century that the breed became
known outside Hungary.
The Komondor was traditionally used
to protect sheep, goats, and cattle from
wolves and bears. Left by their human
owners, they lived among the ocks and
worked independently to guard the livestock
from predators. Many were used
to guard military installations during World
War II and were killed in service, and as a
result the breed nearly died out. However,
a number of dogs were saved by a few
dedicated breeders. Today the largest
populations are in Hungary and the US,
where dogs have been used to guard
livestock from coyotes and other predators.
Although generally quiet and reserved

PUPPY

66

in nature, the Komondor will fearlessly


act to tackle anything it sees as a threat.
The breed has strong guarding instincts
and can be loyal protectors of their home,
although they are more suited to being
outdoor or farm dogs than family pets.
The Komondors independent nature
and instincts, combined with considerable
size and strength, mean that ownership
should be considered only by those
with plenty of dog-handling experience
and space. Daily grooming is essential
to maintain the Komondors
extraordinary tasseled coat.

Long tail curved


slightly at tip

White

WORKING DOGS

Nose is usually black,


but gray or brown is
sometimes seen

IN SHEEPS CLOTHING
Drop ears hidden
under coat

Not only does the Komondor look like the native


Hungarian sheep it is bred to protect, it is treated
like one. The puppies are raised with sheep from
infancy and live with them all year round so the
sheep are not afraid of them. The dogs in turn
treat the sheep as members of their pack and
protect them. Raised in human company they
have similar protective habits toward family
members. The Komondor is even shorn like a
sheep each summer to remove the long, woolly
coat that protects it from the cold in winter.

Dark eyes partially


obscured by coat

Very long, heavy,


tasseled coat

67

C ATALOG OF BREEDS | WORKING DOGS

Aidi
HEIGHT 2124in (5361cm)
WEIGHT 5155lb (2325kg)
LIFE SPAN About 12 years

Fawn
Brown (right)
Black
Fawn, brown, and black coats may be spotted with white.

Also known as the Atlas Mountain Dog, this type of dog has been
used for centuries as a guard dog by the nomadic peoples of Morocco.
The Aidi is faithful, fearless, and always on the alert to protect its
owners and their possessions. But its strong guarding instincts mean
that this dog is not always suited to a domestic lifestyle.

Thick, mediumlength coat

Wide-set,
drop ears
Black
lips

Black patch

White

Feathering on
back of legs

Australian Shepherd
HEIGHT 1823in (4658cm)
WEIGHT 4065lb (1829kg)
LIFE SPAN Over 10 years

Red, red merle


Black
All coats may have tan markings.

Not an Aussie at all, this shepherd dog was bred in the US.
Its name derives from its ancestors, which were worked by
Basque shepherds who emigrated to Australia in the late
19th century and then later moved on to the US. The
Australian Shepherd, still useful
as a ranch dog and tracker,
is becoming increasingly
valued as a pet.

Pronounced stop

High-set,
drop ears
Thick, wavy coat

Tan markings

Blue merle

Bushy tail

68

White hair
extends across
neck, chest,
and legs

WORKING DOGS

Hellenic Shepherd Dog


HEIGHT 2430in (6075cm)
WEIGHT 71110lb (3250kg)
LIFE SPAN 12 years

Variety of colors
Massive, attopped head

The ancestors of this breed,


which is also known as the
Greek Sheepdog, may have
been the sheepdogs brought
into Greece many centuries
ago by Turkish migrants.
Tough, brave, and a natural
guardian and ock leader,
the Hellenic Shepherd Dog
has excellent qualities for
a working dog, but is too
dominant in temperament
to make a reliable family
companion. There are two
coat types: long-haired and
short-haired.

Triangular, drop ears


with darker edges

Dark brown eyes

Broad
chest

Dense coat with


some sabling
Fawn

LONG-HAIRED
White feet
and legs
Abundant
hair on tail

Cursinu

Maremma Sheepdog
HEIGHT 2429in (6073cm)
WEIGHT 6699lb (3045kg)
LIFE SPAN Over 10 years

HEIGHT 1823in (4658cm)


WEIGHT Not known
LIFE SPAN Over 10 years

The sheep herders of the central Italian plains have


long used the Maremma Sheepdog to guard their
ocks. With an imposing stance and a magnicent,
thick, white coat, this handsome dog has obvious
attractions but needs expert handling. Like many
dogs bred for outdoor work, this sheepdog is not
the ideal choice for the home.
Heavy, wavy coat

Blackrimmed
eyes

Short hair
on face

Dogs of this type have existed on the island of Corsica


for over a hundred years, although the Cursinu has only
been recognized in France since 2003. Energetic, fastmoving, and versatile, it is used for both hunting and
herding and, although it can adapt to home life, it is
probably at its best as a working dog.

High-set,
semierect
ears

Short, thick,
muscular neck

Small ears hang


at at rest

Long tail,
carried in
curl when
active

Thickly
haired,
low-set tail

Flat, wide
head

White

Thick collar
of hair on
neck

Short to mediumlength coat


Fawn-brindle
Long, harelike feet

69

C ATALOG OF BREEDS | WORKING DOGS

Romanian Shepherd Dogs


HEIGHT
2331in
(5978cm)

LIFE SPAN
1214 years

WEIGHT
77154lb
(3570kg)

MOLOSSUS DOGS
Said to be descendants of ancient molossus
dogs that were crossed with local domestic dogs,
the Romanian Shepherd Dog is an impressive
animal. The ancient molossus dogs were used
in battle, for hunting (as seen in this frieze from
c.645BCE), and for guarding property and working
with livestock. Those used for herding were said
by Aristotle (384322BCE) to be superior to
others in size, and in the courage with which they
face the attacks of wild animals. These attributes
are essential for the Romanian Shepherd Dogs
that are used to guard livestock today.

White-beige
Black

Bucovina only may appear as white,


white-beige, black, or ashen-gray
and may have patches of color.

These watchful and courageous dogs need space


and freedom to run and may be wary of strangers
In the mountainous Carpathian region of
Romania, shepherds rely on large, robust
dogs to guard their ocks in all weather.
Regional breeding has resulted in several
distinct types: the three main forms are the
Carpatin, the Bucovina, and the Mioritic.
The lean, wolike Carpatin originated
in the lower Carpathian-Danube area of
eastern Romania; the heavier Molossoid
Bucovina was developed in the northeastern
mountains; and the shaggy-haired Mioritic
arose in the north. All types have to be strong
and courageous to defend livestock against
predators such as wolves, bears, and lynxes.

From the 1930s onward efforts were made


to preserve all three types. The different
Romanian Shepherd Dog breeds were
provisionally recognized by the FCI in
the early years of this century.
Romanian Shepherd Dogs are little
known outside their native country. All
types are better suited to outdoor rather
than indoor life, and none is widely known
as a companion dog. With strong watchdog
instincts, Romanian Shepherd Dogs are
highly territorial and suspicious of strangers.
They need plenty of activity, as well as
early socialization and rm training.

Blaze extends
to muzzle

White with
cream and gray
markings

Wolf-gray
Black
nose
Profuse hair
on tail

Slightly longer
hair on neck
forms ruff

Rough, slightly
wavy coat

Coat longer than


other Romanian
Shepherd Dogs

Feathering on
back of front legs

CARPATIN

White
markings
on feet

MIORITIC

70

CARPATIN

WORKING DOGS

Appenzell Cattle Dog


HEIGHT 2022in (5056cm)
WEIGHT 4971lb (2232kg)
LIFE SPAN 1213 years

Drop ears, raised


forward when alert

Havana brown

Bred for herding and guarding on Alpine farms,


the Appenzell Cattle Dog has also taken well to
urban life. The breed has a rm following in
Switzerland but is not yet widely known elsewhere.
Keen, alert, and full of energy,
this dog is at its best
when kept occupied.
Small, almond-

Tail carried
in tight curl

Reddish
brown
markings
on face

shaped eyes
White
chest
White blaze
extends to
sides of muzzle
Black

Dense, at,
shiny coat

White feet

Entlebucher Mountain Dog


HEIGHT 1720in (4250cm)
WEIGHT 4662lb (2128kg)
LIFE SPAN 1115 years

The smallest of several long-established


Swiss mountain dogs, this cattledriving breed from the Entlebuch
valley is gaining popularity as
a house dog. Bouncing with
high spirits, the Entlebucher
Mountain Dog is condent
and well behaved within
the family, but has strong
protective instincts and
is inclined to be wary
around strangers.

High-set,
drop ears
Reddish brown
markings
above eyes

Back length longer


than leg length

White
chest

Tricolor

Slightly curved,
long tail
Short, coarse,
glossy coat

Reddish brown
markings on legs

71

C ATALOG OF BREEDS | WORKING DOGS

WORKING DOGS

Bernese Mountain Dog


HEIGHT
2328in
(5870cm)

WEIGHT
71120lb
(3254kg)

LIFE SPAN
Under 10 years

CART DOGS

A beautifully marked, versatile breed with an attractive


personality and kind nature, this dog enjoys family life
This lovely dog takes its name from the
Swiss canton of Berne, where it traditionally
worked as an all-purpose farm dog; it was
also used to pull carts to transport goods
such as milk and cheese to market. The breed
began to decline in the 19th century as other
types of dog were imported to Switzerland.
Initial work on restoring the breed was done
by Franz Schertenlieb who traveled all over
Switzerland looking for dogs and, later,
a Swiss professor called Albert Heim began
working to preserve and promote the breed
too. A breed club was formed in 1907, and
during the 20th century the breed became
popular worldwide.
The Bernese Mountain
Dog is attractive in
both looks and nature,

and has become popular as a family dog.


Slow to mature, these dogs keep their
puppyish tendencies for longer than other
breeds. Although large and strong, the dogs
are not overly dominant. They enjoy human
company and need to spend a lot of time
around people, rather than be conned
to a kennel or yard. The breed is affectionate
and reliable with children. In recent years it
has become popular as a therapy dog for
older people, sick children, or those with
special needs. It is also still used for farm
work as well as search and rescue work.
The eye-catching tricolor coat needs
plenty of grooming to maintain its silky
texture and characteristic soft sheen. The
coat is heavy, so this dog is not suited to
extremely warm climates.

Triangular,
drop ears

White
blaze
on head

In the past, people who couldnt afford a horse


would use dogs to pull carts, leading to the
development of breeds such as the Bernese
Mountain Dog. This breed was used in the
summer to transport milk, and later cheese,
from the mountains where the cattle grazed
to the valleys below. Because of this practice,
dogs were sometimes referred to locally as
Cheese Dogs. When not working as a draft
animal, the Bernese Mountain Dog was used
to control stock and guard property.

Broad head with


well-dened stop

PUPPY
Tricolor

Broad, deep
chest with
white markings

Long, bushy,
jet-black tail
Long, silky,
slightly wavy coat

Reddish brown
markings extend
down to feet

73

C ATALOG OF BREEDS | WORKING DOGS

Greater Swiss Mountain Dog


HEIGHT 2428in (6072cm)
WEIGHT 79130lb (3659kg)
LIFE SPAN 811 years

White Swiss Shepherd Dog


HEIGHT 2126in (5366cm)
WEIGHT 5588lb (2540kg)
LIFE SPAN 811 years

Bred in the Swiss Alps, this huge, strong, striking dog was once
used to haul carts full of dairy produce, for cattle herding, and for
guard duties. The dog had all but disappeared by the beginning of
the 20th century, but breeding by enthusiasts saved it from extinction;
however, it is still rare. A true working dog, its agreeable temperament
makes it a sociable family companion
Tan spots
for those with room to spare.
over eyes

Pure white shepherd dogs were rst brought into Switzerland


from North America in the 1970s. Developed over the next
two decades, it was recognized in Switzerland as a breed
in 1991. Good-tempered and intelligent, it is suitable
for both work and companionship. There
are two coat types: medium-haired
and long-haired.

Dark eyes

Strong,
muscular body

White

Coat has
symmetrical
pattern

High-set,
erect ears

Broad,
attened skull

Black with tan


and white
markings

Bushy tail
LONG-HAIRED

Kangal Dog

Anatolian Shepherd Dog


HEIGHT 2832in (7181cm)
WEIGHT 90141lb (4164kg)
LIFE SPAN 1215 years

HEIGHT 2831in (7080cm)


WEIGHT 88143lb (4065kg)
LIFE SPAN 1215 years

Any color

After a long history as a livestock guardian, this hardy and


powerful breed is still used in Turkey as a working dog. Bred for
its courage and independence of spirit, the Anatolian Shepherd
Dog respects the authority of a rm and loving owner. If kept
as a companion dog, training and
socializing should begin early.
Long tail
curls up at tip

Pale brown
Pale gray
White markings on feet and chest only.

Known as the national dog of Turkey, the Kangal Dog is a


mastiff-type mountain dog bred in central Turkey to guard ocks
against wolves, jackals, and bears. The breed is strongly protective
toward its human family. It is independent-minded and needs
experienced handling and a lot of exercise.

Thick coat

Black muzzle

Throat has
dewlap

Slight
furrow
down head

Dark
face
mask
Slight
dewlap

Fawn

Pale yellow

Large
feet

74

Darker-colored,
drop ears

WORKING DOGS

Central Asian Shepherd Dog

Akbash
HEIGHT 2731in (6979cm)
WEIGHT 75130lb (3459kg)
LIFE SPAN 1011 years

HEIGHT 2631in (6578cm)


WEIGHT 88174lb (4079kg)
LIFE SPAN 1214 years

A powerful Turkish breed developed for guarding ocks, Akbashtype dogs have probably been around for several thousands of years.
Used on ranches in North America as a livestock and property
guard, the Akbash is best suited to a working life and needs skilled
handling to prevent behavior problems. There are two coat types:
medium-haired and long-haired.
Heavily
feathered tail

The nomadic herdsmen of Central Asiathe regions now


known as Kazakhstan, Turkmenistan, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, and
Kyrgyzstanhave used dogs of this type to protect their ocks for
hundreds of years. Once bred selectively in the former USSR, this
rare breed needs early socialization. There are two coat types: shorthaired and long-haired.
Moderate stop

Shorter hair
on face

Weatherproof,
coarse coat

White

Variety of colors

White with
lemon markings

Dense coat

Biscuit
Powerful
shoulders

Feathering on
back of legs

Typical mastifftype body


LONGHAIRED

SHORT-HAIRED

Caucasian Shepherd Dog


HEIGHT 2630in (6775cm)
WEIGHT 99154lb (4570kg)
LIFE SPAN 1011 years

Variety of colors

Developed from various large dogs, this shepherd dog was


once used to guard ocks in the Caucasian regions. In the 1920s
selective breeding of this dog began in the former USSR and
continued later in Germany. An excellent watchdog, it requires
careful handling if it is to be a good companion.
Massive head
Heavily
feathered tail

Large,
rounded
feet

Sable

Leonberger
HEIGHT 2831in (7280cm)
WEIGHT 99170lb (4577kg)
LIFE SPAN Over 10 years

Sandy
Red
May have white markings.

Named after the Bavarian town of Leonberg, this breed was


developed in the mid-19th century by crossing a St. Bernard (see
p.76) with a Newfoundland (see p.79). After the two World Wars,
Leonbergers had almost disappeared, but the breed has recovered
and is popular for its splendid looks and friendly nature.
Feathered tail,
lighter on
underside

Thick, fairly
long coat

Mane on neck
and chest
Dark muzzle
Black mask
Deep
chest

Dense, coarse
coat stands
away from body

Lion-gold

Feet thickly
insulated with
white hair

Feathered
forelegs

PUPPY

75

C ATALOG OF BREEDS | WORKING DOGS

Saint Bernard
HEIGHT
2830in
(7075cm)

WEIGHT
130180lb
(5981kg)

LIFE SPAN
810 years

Brindle

This kindly giant has a delightful temperament but its


unrivaled size prohibits it from being a pet for many
Originating in the 18th century, this breed
was created by the monks of St. Bernards
Hospice in the Swiss Alps. The monks
crossbred the various mastiff-type dogs
that had existed in the Swiss valleys for
centuries, probably for use as watchdogs and
companions. The dogs unique rescue duties
date from the late 18th century. The animals
could smell people hidden under snow and
sense impending avalanches. The monks sent
the dogs out in groups to nd lost travelers;
one dog would lie beside a casualty to keep
the person warm while another would
return to the monastery to alert the monks.
However, the image of the rescuing Saint
Bernard carrying a cask of medicinal
brandy around his neck is apochryphal.
During the severe winters of 181618
many dogs died doing rescue work, and
numbers fell dangerously low. In the 1830s
some crosses were made with Newfoundland
dogs (see p.78), but the crossbreeds long
hair picked up too much snow and ice,
making them unsuitable for rescue work.
The crosses were given away and the monks
returned to breeding the shorter-haired

dogs. During the 19th century the breed


became popular outside Switzerland,
particularly in England where the Saint
Bernard was crossed with English Mastiffs
to produce a larger, heavier dog.
The Saint Bernard is calm and
affectionate, and is especially good with
children. It is relatively rare as a house dog
due to its giant size and its need for plenty
of space and food. There
are two coat types:
smooth-haired and
rough-haired.

BARRY THE MOUNTAIN RESCUE DOG


The most famous Saint Bernard rescue dog
was a male named Barry, who lived from
1800 to 1814. He was owned by the monks
of St. Bernards Hospice. Barry is said to have
rescued more than 40 people, including a
young boy whom he found in a cavern of
ice; the dog revived the boy by licking him,
and then carried him back to the monks.
Since then, the hospice has always named
one of their dogs Barry in his honor.
A monument to the original Barry (right)
can be found in the Paris dog cemetery.

CIMETIRE DES CHIENS


DASNIRES-SUR-SEINE,
PARIS, FRANCE

76

Bushy
white tail

Characteristic
white markings
on legs

White patch

WORKING DOGS

White markings
on face
PUPPY
White
collar

Broad, straight back

Slightly
pendulous
ews

Long, thick neck


with pronounced
dewlap
Typical black
shading

Flat, deep
cheeks

Smooth
coat

Orange and white

SMOOTH-HAIRED

77

C ATALOG OF BREEDS | WORKING DOGS

Pyrenean Mastiff

Tatra Shepherd Dog


HEIGHT 2428in (6070cm)
WEIGHT 79130lb (3659kg)
LIFE SPAN 1012 years

HEIGHT 2832in (7281cm)


WEIGHT 120154lb (5470kg)
LIFE SPAN 10 years

Still used for protecting and herding flocks in the high Tatra
mountains of Poland, this huge and handsome dog takes its duties
just as seriously when guarding home and household. Usually
gentle with those it knows, this breed requires an experienced
owner with a watchful eye for potential aggression if it is to
be kept as a companion.

A native of Spain, the Pyrenean Mastiff was originally kept for


guarding mountain ocks. Large and courageous enough to take
on a bear or a wolf, this breed is now often used as a house
guard. Intelligent and calm, it can also be a good
Small, almondcompanion dog if it has the right training.
shaped eyes
Dense, bristly
textured coat

Dense, slightly
wavy coat

White

White

Long, plumed tail


Lips and
eyes have
dark edges

Triangular,
drop ears with
rounded tips

Well-dened
face mask

Deep mane
around neck
Hair shorter on
lower legs and feet

Irregular patch
same color as
face mask

Great Pyrenees
HEIGHT 2628in (6570cm)
WEIGHT 88110lb (4050kg)
LIFE SPAN 911 years

Pure white

One of the most imposing of all dogs, this breed comes from the
French Pyrenees, where its traditional role was as a guarder of ocks.
Thoroughly assimilated into modern family life, the Great Pyrenees
is calm-natured and unaggressive, reliable in the home, and good
with children. Despite the dogs huge size and strength, it does
Tan
not need an excessive amount of exercise. Owners should,
patch
on rump
however, be prepared to put their energies into grooming.

White with
tan patches

Dark, amber-colored
eyes with black rims

Plumed tail
Tan patches and dark
shading on head
Dense, wavy coat
Double dewclaws
on hind legs,
hidden by hair

78

Heavy mane
around
neck and
shoulders

WORKING DOGS

Newfoundland
HEIGHT 2628in (6671cm)
WEIGHT 110152lb (5069kg)
LIFE SPAN 911 years

Although the Newfoundland is


associated with the Canadian
province of the same name, the
dogs true origins are uncertain.
Historically employed by
shermen to retrieve nets,
it is sometimes used today
for sea rescues. The breed
has a protective nature and
is renowned for being gentle
with children. Its large
size rules this dog
out as a pet for
a small home.

Dark brown

Massive head

Black

Dense, coarse,
slightly oily coat

Bushy
tail

Feathered
forelegs
Large
feet

Landseer

Black head with


well developed stop

HEIGHT 2628in (6671cm)


WEIGHT 110152lb (5069kg)
LIFE SPAN 911 years

This color variant of the Newfoundland (above) is regarded


as a distinct breed in some countries. The Landseer is named after
the mid-Victorian British painter Sir Edwin Landseer, who often
painted these dogs. Aside from its bicolored coat, this dog
shares all the attributes of solid-colored Newfoundlands,
being placid, friendly, and dependable.

Strong neck

Distinctive,
black saddle

White with
black markings

Short hair in
front of legs,
feathered behind

79

C ATALOG OF BREEDS

WORKING DOGS

Tibetan Mastiff
HEIGHT
2426in
(6166 cm)

WEIGHT
85280lb
(39127kg)

LIFE SPAN
Over 10 years

Slate-gray
Gold
Black

Black and slate-gray dogs


may have tan markings.

One of the smaller mastiffs, this independent dog is


extremely loyal but may take time to train and socialize
One of the worlds oldest dog breeds, the
Tibetan Mastiff was traditionally used to
guard livestock by nomadic shepherds in the
Himalayas, as well as to protect villages and
monasteries. The dogs were often left to
roam free at night to guard villages, or left
behind to guard shepherds families when the
men moved their ocks to higher pastures.
Ancestors of these dogs were brought
westward with the armies of Attila the Hun
and Genghis Khan, laying the foundations
for some of todays giant
Molossus breeds.
Since the 18th century
small numbers of
Tibetan Mastiffs
have been exported
to the West, but the
breed only started
PUPPY

THE WORLDS MOST


EXPENSIVE DOG

to become well-known in the UK from the


1970s onward. Tibetan Mastiffs are also
becoming popular in China, where they are
regarded as bringers of health and prosperity.
In its native country, the Tibetan Mastiff
can still be rather large and erce. However,
in the West, selective breeding and training
have greatly reduced any aggressive
tendencies. The Tibetan Mastiff has strong
protective instincts, especially with children.
It is a good house dog and companion,
although it is fairly independent-minded
and not overtly affectionate. The breed
takes time to reach full maturity and needs
thorough, steady training.
Tibetan Mastiff bitches come into season
once a year rather than twice, as is usual for
dogs. The coat needs plenty of grooming
and is not suited for hot, humid climates,
but it does not have dander, which reduces
the risk of allergic reactions.

The Tibetan Mastiff is still uncommon beyond


its native land, but this ancient breed has
become something of a status symbol in China.
In 2011 a young dog named Hong Dong (Big
Splash) was sold to a Chinese coal baron for
10 million yuan ( just over $1.5 million), so
becoming the worlds most expensive dog.
Big Splash was prized not only for being a
perfect physical specimen, but also because
his coat was reda lucky color in China.

Bushy tail carried


curled over back
Short-haired
drop ears
Black with
tan markings

Powerful
jaws

Coat forms
mane around
neck and
shoulders

Typical tan
markings
on legs

White star
on chest

Dense, straight coat


Feathering
between toes

81

C ATALOG OF BREEDS | WORKING DOGS

Slovakian Chuvach

Tibetan Kyi Apso


HEIGHT 2228in (5671cm)
WEIGHT 6884lb (3138kg)
LIFE SPAN 710 years

HEIGHT 2328in (5970cm)


WEIGHT 6897lb (3144kg)
LIFE SPAN 1113 years

Any color

Only a handful of Kyi Apsos have appeared outside Tibet and


the breed is elusive even in its own country. Traditionally, this
dog is a guard of ocks and homes. The Tibetan Kyi Apso has
a characteristic springy gait, and is agile and capable of rapid
bursts of speed.

Originally a shepherds guard dog from the Slovakian Alps,


the Slovakian Chuvach has been developed successfully into a
good house dog. This large, powerful breed retains the alertness
and watchfulness that made it a superb defender of farms and
livestock. Tactful training is needed to achieve the best results.

Low-set,
pendant ears
Tail carried
high in a curl

Dense,
wiry coat

High-set,
drop ears

Slightly wavy
coat
Profusely feathered,
low-set tail

Strong
hindquarters

Broad
forehead

Bearded face

Black
and tan

Neck broad
relative
to body

White

Short hair
on face

Hovawart

Kuvasz
HEIGHT 2630in (6675cm)
WEIGHT 71115lb (3252kg)
LIFE SPAN 1012 years

HEIGHT 2328in (5870cm)


WEIGHT 6299lb (2845kg)
LIFE SPAN 1014 years

Probably the oldest and best known of Hungarys breeds,


the Kuvasz was once used as a shepherds guard dog.
The breeds naturally protective instincts may lead to
aggressiveness, and it takes rm training to make the
Kuvasz an acceptable house dog.
White

Broad head with


minimal stop

Little known as a companion dog but growing in popularity,


the Hovawarts forerunners were used as farm dogs in the 13th
century. The modern breed was developed in Germany in the rst
half of the 20th century. Very hardy and ready to go outdoors in any
weather, it is a friendly and faithful house dog. The Hovawart is not
difcult to train but may need careful handling around other dogs.
Black

Long, extremely
muscular thighs

Dense coat

Skull and
muzzle equal in
length

Triangular, drop
ears with
rounded tips

Coarse, wavy
coat

Muscular
neck

Feathering on
forelegs may
be very long
Black
and gold

82

Blonde

Oval feet
with arched
toes

WORKING DOGS

Rottweiler
HEIGHT
2327in
(5869cm)

WEIGHT
84130lb
(3859kg)

IN SAFE HANDS
LIFE SPAN
1011 years

This big, burly, protective dog makes a good companion


if well socialized by an experienced owner
The Rottweiler is descended from dogs
used by Roman armies to drive cattle on
long marches. Some of the drovers and
their dogs settled in southern Germany,
where the dogs were interbred with local
cattle dogs. The breed was centered in the
livestock-trading town of Rottweil in
southern Germany, where they were used
to herd and drive cattle, hunt bear, and
pull carts as butchers dogs. During the
19th century these jobs died out and
the breed dwindled almost to extinction.
It was revived in the early 20th century,
particularly for work as a police dog
because of its guarding and ghting instinct.

Today, Rottweilers are extensively used


by military and police forces, as guard dogs,
and in search and rescue work.
The Rottweiler has acquired an image
as a vicious guard dog and an intimidating
status symbol. However, despite the breeds
great strength, impressive swagger, and
easily aroused protective responses, it is
not naturally ill-tempered. With thoughtful
training from a rm and experienced owner
who is alert to potential triggers of aggression,
this dog makes a calm and obedient
companion. Rottweilers are more agile
than their size and sturdy build might suggest,
and appreciate plenty of vigorous exercise.

The eagerness of a Rottweiler to please its


owner makes it an easy and rewarding dog
to train. This quality combined with its size
and strength makes it an ideal dog for law
enforcement and security work. Quick to react,
and obedient to its handler, it has sufcient
strength to restrain even the most persistent
of law breakers. Employed extensively by the
military and police in Germany during WWI,
the Rottweiler was introduced to the US
and the UK in the 1930s. They are now the
police dog of choice in several countries.

Broad head with


well-dened stop

Tan markings clearly


dened on head

Small, drop ears


Short, smooth,
shiny coat

Deep muzzle
with rm ews

Broad,
deep chest

Tan chest
markings
Black and tan

Tan markings
on legs

83

C ATALOG OF BREEDS | WORKING DOGS

Chinese Shar-Pei
HEIGHT
1820in
(4651cm)

WEIGHT
4055lb
(1825kg)

LIFE SPAN
Over 10 years

Variety of colors

A generally friendly temperament is hidden


behind this dogs scowling face
The origins of this native Chinese breed
are not known, but dogs of this type are
shown on pottery dating from the Han
dynasty (206BCE220CE) and are mentioned
in manuscripts dating from the 13th century.
The Chinese Shar-Peis traditional jobs
included herding and guarding livestock,
hunting, and ghting; the dogs wrinkled
skin and bristly coat made it difcult for
other dogs to grab hold of the animal. (The
name Shar-Pei roughly means sandy coat,
referring to the rough texture of the hair).
During the 20th century the numbers
dwindled almost to extinction in mainland
China, although the Shar-Pei was still
being bred in Hong Kong and Taiwan.
In the 1970s the
breed became
popular in the
US, and, at
least for a
while, owning
a Chinese Shar-Pei
became a fashion
statement due to its
rarity. People started
PUPPY

FIT FOR THE TASK


The similarity between dog artifacts of the
Han dynasty (206BCE220CE) and the SharPei are very striking, despite the drop ears
and much looser, wrinkled skin of the
modern dog. It is thought that these
features were developed when the Shar-Pei
was used as a ghting dog. Small, drop ears
minimized the chance of injury, and the loose
skin prevented its adversary from getting
a rm grip, allowing the Chinese Shar-Pei
to maneuver and defend itself.

EARTHENWARE STATUE,
EASTERN HAN DYNASTY

84

breeding the dogs to


accentuate their wrinkled
faces, producing what the
Chinese called the meat-mouth
type (as opposed to the traditional,
cleaner-faced bone-mouth form).
However, breeding for excessively
loose and folded facial skin caused
the dogs to develop entropion (a
painful condition in which the
eyelashes turn inward), and so this
practice has now largely stopped.
The Chinese Shar-Peis amiable
nature and compact size make it
suitable for a town or country home.
The dogs distinctive appearance
includes the famous wrinkles, which
are limited to the head and shoulders
on adults; a blue tongue; small,
triangular ears; and a snub nose,
which some Chinese people call a
buttery-cookie nose. The coat
varies in length from very short
and prickly to the touch (the horse
coat) to slightly longer and
smoother hair (the brush coat).

Tail carried high


and curved over

WORKING DOGS
Wrinkles on
forehead give
frowning expression

Small, high-set,
button ears

Typical ews
of a meatmouth type

Wrinkled skin
over shoulders
and neck

Back dips slightly


behind withers

Short, velvety,
horse coat

Square, sturdily
built body

Broad
muzzle with
eshy ews
Fawn

Loose skin on back


and legs wrinkles
when dog is seated

85

C ATALOG OF BREEDS | WORKING DOGS

Majorca Shepherd Dog

Beauceron
HEIGHT 2528in (6370cm)
WEIGHT 6585lb (2939kg)
LIFE SPAN 1015 years

May have a few white chest hairs.

A herding and guard dog from the atlands of the Beauce region
in central France, the Beauceron is an excellent worker and, in the
right situation, a gentle family companion. This big, strong dog
can be intolerant of other dogs; early training is needed to
minimize potential problems.
Slightly
sloping croup

HEIGHT 2429in (6273cm)


WEIGHT 7788lb (3540kg)
LIFE SPAN 1113 years

Gray, black, and tan

Comparatively rare worldwide, the Majorca Shepherd Dog


is regarded with pride in Majorca, where it was once widely
used as a shepherd dog, and is now popular as a show dog.
Although usually willing to obey, this breed has strong herding
instincts and can be defensive with strangers and other dogs.

Drop ears

Coarse-textured,
short coat

Black

Short coat

Tan markings
on muzzle

Black and tan

Small,
wide-set eyes

Wide head

Small feet with


arched toes

Double dewclaws
on hind feet
Tapering
tail

Lower legs
tan in color

Mallorca Mastiff

Taiwan Dog
HEIGHT 1720in (4352cm)
WEIGHT 2640lb (1218kg)
LIFE SPAN Over 10 years

HEIGHT 2023in (5258cm)


WEIGHT 6684lb (3038kg)
LIFE SPAN 1012 years

Variety of colors

The Taiwan Dog, formerly known as the Formosan Mountain


Dog, is something of a rarity, even in its native country. It is
believed to have descended from the semi-wild dogs once used for
hunting in the interior of Taiwan. The breed makes an intelligent
family dog, but its hunting instincts need to be kept in check.
Brindle
Sickle-shaped,
high-set tail,
profusely
covered in hair

Black

The Mallorca Mastiff, also known as the Ca de Bou, has a


background that includes ghting and bullbaiting. A powerful
breed, it has the typical mastiff-type build and watchful nature.
When handled rmly but quietly, this dog socializes well, but it
is probably better suited to life as a guard dog rather than as a
family pet.
Black mask

High-set,
rose ears

Short,
hard coat

Body length
exceeds leg length

Black nose
Brindle

Erect ears
Strong,
slender legs

Strong neck
with slight
dewlap

Tucked-up
belly

Short coat

86

Fawn

WORKING DOGS

Dogo Argentino

Dogo Canario
HEIGHT 2226in (5666cm)
WEIGHT 88143lb (4065kg)
LIFE SPAN 911 years

HEIGHT 2427in (6068cm)


WEIGHT 7999lb (3645kg)
LIFE SPAN 1012 years

Brindle
May have white markings.

Bred in the Canary Islands in the early 19th century as a


ghting dog, the Dogo Canario is believed to include the Mastiff
(see p.93) in its ancestry. Difcult to train and socialize, a Dogo
Canario is manageable if the owner understands and controls
the dogs dominant nature. Early socialization is essential.

Originating in the 1920s in Cordoba, Argentina, the Dogo


Argentino was the creation of a local doctor who wanted a dog
for hunting large game. Breeding from old ghting dogs such as
mastiffs and the Bulldog (see p.95) produced this new dog. The
Dogo Argentino has a kind temperament but can be overprotective.

Darker muzzle
Tail extends
to hock

Drop ears

Short
coat

Body length
exceeds leg length

White

Pronounced
dewlap

Characteristic
slightly concave
muzzle

Square
head with
powerful jaw

Muscular
body
Fawn

Short coat

Large, round,
catlike feet

Round feet

Uruguayan Cimarron

Fila Brasileiro
HEIGHT 2430in (6075cm)
WEIGHT Over 88lb (40kg)
LIFE SPAN 911years

HEIGHT 2224in (5561cm)


WEIGHT 7399lb (3345kg)
LIFE SPAN 1013 years

Any solid color

Bred to guard large estates and livestock, the Fila Brasileiro


does not fear intruders of any kind. Huge but beautifully
proportioned, this dog exudes condence and determination.
Although the Fila Brasileiro is kind and quiet within a family,
the average owner may nd the breeds hunting and protective
instincts difcult to manage.
Short,
smooth coat

Large,
drop ears

Strong
neck with
skin folds
at throat

Triangular ears
with rounded tips
Thick tail
reaches hocks

Brindle

Brindle
Deep chest with
white markings

Massive,
broad head

Strong,
powerful jaws

Broad chest with


white markings
Forelegs
more heavily
boned than
hind legs
White
markings
on feet

Fawn coats may have black shading.

The ancestors of this breed were dogs brought into Uruguay


by Spanish and Portuguese colonists and crossed with local dog
breeds. Bred by farmers in the remote area of Cerro Largo, the
Uruguayan Cimarron was used for guarding and herding. Like
many working dogs, a Uruguayan Cimarron kept as a companion
needs an experienced owner.

Well-dened
eyebrows

Loose, thick
skin on throat

Fawn

Close-tting,
short-haired coat
Rounded,
catlike feet

87

C ATALOG OF BREEDS | WORKING DOGS

Alapaha Blue Blood Bulldog


HEIGHT 1824in (4661cm)
WEIGHT 5590lb (2541kg)
LIFE SPAN 1215 years.

Broad,
at head

Wide-set,
triangular,
drop ears

White
Dogs may have patches of any color.

Bulldog-type dogs were once commonly used as guards in the plantations


of southern Georgia. By the early 19th century such dogs were almost
extinct, but dedicated breeding over the next 200 years regenerated the
type and produced the Alapaha Blue Blood Bulldog. This dog is still rare
and not widely known outside the US. Muscular and intrepid, an
Alapaha Blue Blood Bulldog has strong protective instincts, but it is easy
to train to be a well behaved and affectionate companion. Energetic
outdoors, this dog is happiest when given plenty of exercise.
White with
blue merle
markings

Strong,
muscular body

Blue eyes
Broad chest

Short muzzle with


well-dened stop

Catlike feet

Loose ews

Spanish Mastiff

Boerboel
HEIGHT 2226in (5566cm)
WEIGHT 165198lb (7590kg)
LIFE SPAN 1215 years

HEIGHT 2831in (7280cm)


WEIGHT 115221lb (52100kg)
LIFE SPAN 1011 years

Variety of colors
May have darker face mask.

The Boerboel was developed from the large, mastiff-type dogs


brought, from the 17th century onward, by settlers to the Cape
area of South Africa. Affectionate with family and friends, the
Boerboel is a formidable guard dog of huge size and strength.
An experienced owner and early socialization are very important.

Thick tail tapers


slightly to tip

Strong,
muscular neck

Any color

Once used for guarding livestock and homes in Spain, the


Spanish Mastiff still carries out its traditional duties. The breed
is also popular in its native country as a companion dog. Kind
and loyal within the family, this breed can be aggressive with
strangers and other dogs.

Characteristic
massive,
square head

Almondshaped eyes

Fawn

Darker tip
to muzzle

Darker muzzle
and drop ears

Powerful
hind legs

88

Short,
sleek
coat

Double dewlap

Long,
bushy tail

Drop ears

Fawn
Large,
catlike feet

Coat has
some
sabling

WORKING DOGS

Cane Corso

St. Miguel Cattle Dog


HEIGHT 1924in (4860cm)
WEIGHT 4477lb (2035kg)
LIFE SPAN About 15 years

HEIGHT 2427in (6068cm)


WEIGHT 88110lb (4050kg)
LIFE SPAN 1011 years

Gray brindle

Also known as the Azores Cattle Dog, this robust cattle herder
and guard dog originally came from the Azorean island of So
Miguel. The breed is quiet and obedient with a trusted owner but
needs careful handling where children or strangers are concerned.
Short,
smooth coat
Wide mouth
with powerful
jaws

Gray
Stag-red
Brindle

May have
white markings.

Descended from Roman fighting dogs, the Cane Corso is now


used mainly for guarding and tracking. More graceful in build than
many types of mastiff, this is nonetheless an extremely strong and
robust breed. It can make a good house dog, but experienced
and responsible ownership is essential.
Typical mastiffshaped head

Thick, slightly
curved, high-set tail

Short,
glossy coat

Black

Loose-hanging
ews

White markings
on chest

Fawn brindle
Dark muzzle

Fawn

Triangular
drop ears

Powerful body

Oval feet
PUPPY

Dogue De Bordeaux
HEIGHT 2327in (5868cm)
WEIGHT 99110lb (4550kg)
LIFE SPAN 1012 years

This old French breed was once used for hunting and ghting.
The Dogue de Bordeauxs instincts make it a natural guard dog
but, lacking aggression, it is easier to train and socialize than
some mastiff types. Experienced handling is still necessary,
however, if this powerful and
Head furrowed
athletic dog is to t
with wrinkles
comfortably into
Brown nose
a family home.

Short, ne-haired,
soft coat

Muscular,
loose-skinned neck

Fawn

Thick tail
carried low
at rest
Dewlap from
throat to chest

Heavily
muscled legs

89

C ATALOG OF BREEDS | WORKING DOGS

Boxer
HEIGHT
2125in
(5363cm)

WEIGHT
5571lb
(2532kg)

LIFE SPAN
1014 years

Gold
Black brindle
White markings should not exceed a third of coat color.

High-set
tail, held
upright

This clever, loyal, exuberant, and fun-loving dog is ideal


for an energetic owner who enjoys an outdoor life
Once a Boxer-owner, always a Boxerownerthis German breed is so big on
personality that few who live with it ever
look at another type of dog. The Boxer
in its modern form was developed in the
19th century, and its ancestry is thought
to include mastiff-type dogs such as the
Great Dane (see p.96) and the Bulldog
(see p.95). Powerful and athletic, it was bred
primarily for ghting and bullbaiting, but
was also used for farm work, hauling, and
for hunting and holding down large game
such as wild boar. Because of its endurance
and courage, the breed is used today as a
police and military search and rescue dog
and for guard work.
The Boxers history, its proud, upstanding
attitude, and forward-thrusting jaw give
the impression of an intimidating dog,
and certainly it can be protective of home
and family, but it makes a wonderful
companion. It is loyal, affectionate,
endearingly attention-seeking, and a
boisterous but tolerant friend for children.
This energetic breed suits t, active owners
since it keeps its high spirits and playfulness

WHATS IN A NAME?
There are several stories about how the Boxer
got its namethe most charming, but also the
most unlikely, is based on the observation that
these dogs, when meeting, often stand on their
hind legs and use their front feet to push against
one another. An Englishman, upon seeing this,
said it reminded him of prize ghters sparring
and so called the dogs Boxers. Historically, the
dogs were used as ghting dogs and it is this fact
that is more likely to account for their name.

90

into late maturity. Almost any sort of fun


keeps a Boxer happy but, ideally, it needs
a good two-hour walk every day with
plenty of room for romping around in the
open. At home, given its stamina and
curiosity, a Boxer enjoys a large yard
where it has space to roam and
interesting corners to explore.
This highly intelligent dog can be a
handful to train but is obedient provided
it receives calm and consistent commands
and clear leadership. With early socializing,
a Boxer is likely to get along well with any
other pets in the family, although out on
walks its hunting instincts may
be aroused if there are birds
or small animals to chase.

PUPPY

Muscular
hindquarters

WORKING DOGS

Distinct stop

High-set, drop ears


with rounded tips

Arched neck

Body square
in prole
Fawn

Short, broad
muzzle

White chest

Smooth coat

Expressive face with


dark brown eyes and
wrinkled forehead

Tucked-up belly

Lower jaw longer than


upper jaw (undershot)

White feet
and lower legs

91

C ATALOG OF BREEDS | WORKING DOGS

Neapolitan Mastiff
HEIGHT
2430in
(6075cm)

WEIGHT
110154lb
(5070kg)

LIFE SPAN
Up to 10 years

Variety of colors

This canine heavyweight makes a loyal companion


for a responsible owner with plenty of space

HAGRIDS GIANT PET


In the stories about Harry Potter, the boy wizard,
Fang is a dog belonging to the half-giant Rubeus
Hagrid, keeper of the grounds for Hogwarts
School. Despite his scary exterior, Hagrid has
a kind heart. He is noted for keeping dangerous
pets and lovingly overlooking their ferocity. Like
his master, Fang looks erce but is friendly, with
a bark a lot worse than his bite. Although he is
called a boarhound in the books, Neapolitan
Mastiffs were chosen for the lms; their size
and appearance matches Fangs character
exactly. Fang is seen below on the red carpet
at the premiere of Harry Potter and the HalfBlood Prince held at the Gard du Nord, Paris.

The ancestors of this imposing breed


were the Molossus ghting dogs used in
the Roman amphitheater and as dogs of
war in the Roman armies. The armies took
the dogs with them across Europe, thus
giving rise to the various mastiff breeds.
In the area around Naples, these dogs
survived as guard dogs, produced by
breeders known as Mastinari. Although
highly prized, their numbers dwindled,
until, in the 1940s, they became primarily
known through enthusiasts, including the
writer Piero Scanziani who had his own
breeding kennels. The dog is now honored
as the national mastiff of Italy.

The breed has an intimidating appearance:


huge, heavy-headed, and with a stern
expression. Despite its heavy frame, the
Neapolitan Mastiff can be quick and agile
when taking action against threats to its
owners or territory. The breed is now
employed by the Italian armed forces
and police force, and is used as a guard
dog on farms and country estates.
The Neapolitan Mastiff can be calm,
friendly, and devoted to its family, but it
needs a condent and capable owner to
socialize it effectively. Because of its size,
this dog needs lots of living space and
can be expensive to maintain.
Large head with
loose-tting skin

Drop ears set well


apart on broad skull

Deep muzzle
with pendulous
ews

Gray

Tail thick at
base, tapers
to tip

Moderate
dewlap

Short coat with


harsh texture

White patch
on tip of toe

92

Mastiff
HEIGHT
2830in
(7077cm)

WEIGHT
175190lb
(7986kg)

LIFE SPAN
Under
10 years

Apricot
Brindle
May have some white on body, chest, and feet.

Strong and imposing, but calm and affectionate, this


intelligent guard dog thrives on human company
One of the oldest British breeds,
the Mastiff is another breed that was
developed from Molossus dogs that
were probably brought to Britain during
Roman occupation. In later centuries,
they were the dogs of war mentioned
in William Shakespeares Henry V: one
Mastiff defended its wounded owner, Sir
Piers Legh, against French soldiers during
the Battle of Agincourt in 1415. Mastifflike dogs were also used in medieval Britain
for guarding homes and protecting livestock
from wolves, as well as in dogghting,
bullbaiting, and bearbaiting. When these
sports were banned the breed declined.

MASTIFF IN MOTION
Historically, Mastiffs looked somewhat different,
being more lightly built and about 3in (10cm)
taller than the dogs seen today. This series of
pioneering photographs taken by Eadweard
Muybridge in the late 19th century were part
of his extensive study on animal locomotion.
It allowed people to observe how a breed like
the Mastiff, not known to be overly energetic,
moved. It could then be compared with athletic
dog breeds, such as the Greyhound (see p.126),
which Muybridge also lmed running.

Pure-bred Mastiffs rst appeared in


the 19th century on large country estates,
but by the end of World War II numbers
had fallen drastically in Britain. The breed
was revived by importing dogs from the US,
and has gradually risen in popularity.
Despite its violent history, the Mastiff is
even-tempered, amiable, and likes company,
preferably human. Sheer size is probably the
most serious drawback to housing, feeding,
and exercising this breed. It is intelligent and
trainable, but needs an owner with the
experience and physical strength to exert
rm control and ensure that its guarding
instinct does not get out of hand.

Small, at, black ears,


set high on head

Long, broad body

Wide-set,
small eyes

Fawn

Black muzzle

Forehead wrinkles
when alert
Pendulous
ews

Short coat,
thickest over neck
and shoulders

Straight,
big-boned legs

93

C ATALOG OF BREEDS | WORKING DOGS

Broholmer

Bullmastiff
HEIGHT 2427in (6169cm)
WEIGHT 90130lb (4159kg)
LIFE SPAN Under 10 years

HEIGHT 2830in (7075cm)


WEIGHT 88154lb (4070kg)
LIFE SPAN 611 years

Red
Brindle

A cross between the Old English Mastiff and the Bulldog


(opposite), the Bullmastiff was developed to be a gamekeepers
guard dog. With a more reliable temperament than many other
mastiff types, this breed makes an intelligent and faithful house
dog. The Bullmastiffs square and solid frame houses a lively
spirit and boundless energy.

Black

Historically a hunting dog, and later a farm guard


dog, the Broholmer is now almost exclusively kept
at home. The breed had all but disappeared by the
mid-20th century but was revived and reconstructed
by enthusiasts, though it is rarely seen outside its
native Denmark.

Darker
muzzle

Thick,
muscular
neck

Fawn
High-set tail,
broad at base,
tapers to hocks

Short, at coat

Large, heavy,
broad head

Dark ears set high


and wide apart

Low-set,
broad tail

Slightly
pendulous
ews

White
markings
on chest
Golden-red

Short, at coat

White
marking
on chest

Black
muzzle

Tosa
HEIGHT 2224in (5560cm)
WEIGHT 82198lb (3790kg)
LIFE SPAN Over 10 years

Fawn
Black
Brindle

The Tosa was developed from progressive crossbreeding


between Japanese ghting dogs and Western breeds such
as the Bulldog (opposite), Mastiff (see p.93), and Great
Dane (see p.96). Very large, strongly built, and possessing
a latent ghting instinct, the Tosa is considered to be a
dog that should only be owned by expert handlers.

Short coat

Thick,
tapering tail

Red
Dewlap
on neck

94

Small,
white
marking

Bulldog
HEIGHT
1516in
(3840cm)

WEIGHT
5155lb
(2325kg)

LIFE SPAN
Under 10
years

Variety of colors

Full of character, this dog has become the symbol


for courage, determination, and tenacity
A traditional British breed, the Bulldog
has descended from small Mastiffs. The
name comes from the dogs original use in
bullbaiting, during which the dog would
attack the bull from below and hang on to its
nose or throat. The wide head and protruding
lower jaw gave the Bulldog its legendary grip,
while the position of the nose, tipped back
behind the mouth, allowed the dog to keep
breathing without relaxing its bite.
Bullbaiting was banned in Britain in
1835, but from the mid-19th century the
dogs began to be featured in the show ring.
Breeders started producing dogs with
more exaggerated physical features while

THE ENGLISH BULLDOG


The Bulldog has come to exemplify traditional
Englishness. The 18th-century ctional character
John Bull, made famous by cartoonists such as
James Gillray, was shown with a Bulldog by his
side; both man and dog stood for the plain,
honest Englishman who was fond of his food
and not averse to a ght. The tenacious bulldog
spirit became associated with World Wars I
and II (shown below in a WWI postcard), and is
perhaps most closely linked with Prime Minister
Winston Churchill and his speech in 1940
rousing the embattled nation to defend itself
against its enemies.

minimizing the aggression in their nature,


so the modern breed is very different from
its erce predecessor.
The Bulldog is now known as a
good-natured and lovable companion.
It does have a stubborn streak as well as
a protective instinct, and these traits need
to be handled with tact, although they
rarely develop into aggression. With a
squat and massively muscled body,
wrinkled head, and upturned nose, this
breed has character rather than beauty.
Despite its waddling gait, the Bulldog
needs plenty of exercise to prevent it from
gaining too much weight.

Sloping, muscular
shoulders
Smooth
coat

White
and fawn
Distinctive
upturned nose

Coat has fawn


markings
High-set,
rose ears

Thick,
pendant
lips

Lower jaw longer


than upper jaw
(undershot)

Broad, round,
deep chest
Hind legs longer
than forelegs

Thick, short forelegs


set wide apart

95

C ATALOG OF BREEDS | WORKING DOGS

96

WORKING DOGS

Great Dane
WEIGHT
101120lb
(4654kg)

HEIGHT
2830in
(7176cm)

A HERO NAMED
SCOOBY DOO

LIFE SPAN
Under
10 years

Blue
Black
Brindle

A colossal but gentle and affectionate family pet, this dog


is easy to maintain but needs plenty of room
Sometimes called the Apollo of dogs
after the Greek god, the Great Dane exhibits
elegance and dignity with tall stature, to
make for a truly impressive animal. In fact,
dogs resembling the Great Dane can be seen
in ancient Egyptian and ancient Greek art.
The modern breed rst appeared in the 18th
century in Germanynot Denmark, as its
name suggestswhere it was developed
to hunt bear and wild boar. The original
German boarhounds, thought to have been
a mixture of mastiff-type dogs and Irish
Wolfhounds, were crossed with Greyhounds
to create a tall, agile, long-striding dog,
with the speed and strength to bring
down large quarry.
Great Danes are one
of the tallest of all dog
breeds, and several
individuals have held the

Guinness World Record for being the tallest


dog in the world. The record holder in 2012,
a dog named Zeus, was measured at 3ft 8in
(1.12m) from the ground to his withers
the same height as a childs pony.
Despite its imposing appearance, the
easy-going Great Dane is a gentle giant,
usually friendly toward people and other
animals. These dogs need a lot of human
company, and can be costly to keep, but are
rewarding family pets. They are content to
be house dogs, provided there is enough
space for them to move around freely and lie
comfortably. They are also effective guard
dogs. The Great Dane needs plenty of
exercise, but young pups should not be
allowed to run around too
muchtheir fastgrowing bones cannot
cope with the strain.

Long, arched neck


with no loose skin

PUPPY

The cartoon dog Scooby Doo is the hero of


a long-running TV series created by HannaBarbera. His creator, artist Iwao Takamoto,
was inspired by a woman he knew who bred
Great Danes. After she had described to him
the ideal pedigree dog, Takamoto comically
distorted these features to create a gangling,
chicken-hearted character with a dopey face.
Yet despite being frightened of everything,
Scooby Doo and his hapless human friend
Shaggy (below) rescue their friends and defeat
villains, triumphing every time!

Triangular,
drop ears

Broad muzzle
Dark shading
on head
and ears

Deep, long
body

Harlequin

Slightly
tucked-up belly

Fawn

Straight
forelegs

Catlike feet

97

Pulling together
A team of Siberian Huskies plows
effortlessly through deep snow. With an
experienced handler, these hardy and
tireless dogs work together superbly.

SPIT Z-T YPE DOGS

SPITZ-TYPE
DOGS
A team of huskies pulling a sled over icy wastelands epitomizes the type of dog known as a Spitz.
In fact, this group has diverse uses, including herding, hunting, and guarding; many smaller types
are kept solely as pets. Descent from wolves is apparent in most spitz-type dogs: the shape of the
head, the typical wolf coloring, and an alert expression.

Many of the modern spitz-type dogs


seen today originated centuries ago
in Arctic regions, although a number,
including the Chow Chow (see p.112)
and Akita (see p.111), come from East
Asia. The more ancient history of the
spitz group remains uncertain. One
theory currently being explored is that
spitz-type dogs all have their earliest
origins in Asia, some migrating
alongside tribal movements into
Africa and others across the Bering
Strait to North America.
Breeds such as the Greenland Dog
(see p.100) and Siberian Husky (see
p.101) were used most famously for
sled-hauling by the polar explorers of
the 19th and early 20th centuries. These
tough dogs worked in appalling weather
conditions, often on a diet of poor food,

and not infrequently ended up being


eaten themselves when the explorers ran
out of rations. Such spitz-type sled dogs
were also once widely used by North
American hunters and fur trappers.
Today the sled-hauling spitz breeds are
popular for endurance racing and with
tourists who want to try their hand at
dog-driving. Other spitz dogs have been
bred for hunting large game such as
wolf and bear, and for herding caribou.
The Akita, originally from Japan, was
developed as a ghter and bear hunter
and now often works as a guard dog.
Among the small, nonworking spitz
dogs are the Pomeranian (see p.118),
selectively bred down in size from
a larger type of dog, and the newly
created Alaskan Klee Kai (see p.104),
a miniature husky.

Spitz dogs, both large and small, have


the characteristics of animals bred
specically for living in extremely cold
climates. Typically, they have a very
thick double coat, which varies in
length and density according to the
origin of a breed. Other features
for preventing heat loss in low
temperatures are small, pointed,
furry ears, and heavily furred feet. An
attractive addition to many breeds is
the distinctive spitz tail that curls
upward over the back.
As house dogs, most spitz breeds
are happy with family life, but
they are not the easiest of dogs to
train. Without sufcient exercise
and amusement they can resort to
disruptive behavior such as digging
holes and barking.

99

C ATALOG OF BREEDS | SPIT Z-T YPE DOGS

Greenland Dog
HEIGHT
2027in
(5168cm)

WEIGHT
60106lb
(2748kg)

LIFE SPAN
Over 10 years

POLAR EXPLORER
Any color

This friendly dog has great strength and endurance and


loves outdoor action but needs rm handling
The classic sled dog of polar expeditions,
the Greenland Dog was used by indigenous
peoples long before European and American
explorers discovered its worth. Dogs of this
type were brought to Greenland from Siberia
with migrating people 5,000 years ago.
The dogs need endurance to work hard
in temperatures as low as -69F (-56C)
and are trained to pull sleds of up to 1,000lb
(450kg). The hunters also train their dogs
to hunt seals and walruses and even take
on polar bears. The animals work as a pack
but semi-independently: when pulling

a sled, they are hitched on separate lines


so that each dog can pick its own way
across the terrain.
The Greenland Dog needs careful
training and handling because it is both
powerful and stubborn, and has a strong
drive for dominance (although more with
other dogs than with people). The breed
also needs physical and mental challenges
to keep it busy, so does best in the hands
of an experienced owner. With the right
owner, the Greenland Dog is a cheerful
extrovert and affectionate companion.

The Greenland Dog has played a vital role in


expeditions to the North and South Poles. The
explorers Robert Peary (18561920) and Roald
Amundsen (18721928) used the sled dogs and
handling methods of indigenous Arctic peoples.
Amundsen (below) took Greenland Dogs on
his attempt to conquer the South Pole in 1911,
and 11 of these survived to reach the Pole with
him. Greenland Dogs were used for working
on Antarctic bases until they were banned from
Antarctica as a non-native species in 1992.

Bushy tail curls


loosely over back
Small, erect,
wide-set ears

Black and fawn

Lighter
markings
on face

Muscular,
compact body

Thick, weatherproof,
double coat
Hair forms long
breeches on
hindquarters
Sturdy, heavily
boned legs

100

Large feet
with thick hair
between toes

SPIT Z-T YPE DOGS

Siberian Husky
HEIGHT
2024in
(5160cm)

WEIGHT
3560lb
(1627kg)

BALTOA DOGSLED HERO

LIFE SPAN
Over 10 years

Any color

This versatile and sociable dog enjoys being a part of a


human pack, but its urge to chase needs to be controlled
Long used as a sled dog by the Chukchi
people of northeastern Siberia, the Siberian
Husky has great endurance and an appetite
for work. The thick double coat protects
against extreme cold; at night the dog
uses its bushy tail to keep its face warm.
In 1908 Huskies from Siberia were
introduced to Alaska for dogsled racing,
notably the 408-mile (657-km) All-Alaska
Sweepstakes. In 1930 the Soviets stopped
the export of Siberian Huskies, but that
year the American Kennel Club recognized
the breed. The Siberian Husky proved itself
in polar expeditions, and in the US Armys
Arctic Search and Rescue Unit during
World War II. The breed remains popular
in sports such as dogsled racing.

Siberian Huskies make peaceable, lovable


companions but need plenty of exercise.
They are independent-minded, and their
instinct to pull means that they need
careful training on the leash. Siberian
Huskies have a strong pack instinct and
need to be with both people and other
dogs. They tend to see small animals as
prey, so owners should socialize their
puppy with other pets early on. The coat
should be groomed once or twice a week.

Foxlike
head

Born in 1919, Balto was originally bred for


dogsled racing in Alaska, but in 1925 relay
teams of sled dogs were urgently needed to
help carry diphtheria vaccine from Anchorage
to Nome to prevent an epidemic. Balto led
the last team, braving a erce blizzard and a
freezing river to cover the nal leg and deliver
the vaccine safely. The team received a heros
welcome from the press. A statue of Balto
was erected in Central Park, New York City,
and a Hollywood movie was made
about his deeds.

BALTO
STATUE,
NEW YORK

Triangular, erect,
high-set ears

Arched neck

Slightly
sloping
croup

Wolf-gray

Thick, mediumlength coat

Powerful,
muscular thighs

Long,
bushy tail

101

C ATALOG OF BREEDS | SPIT Z-T YPE DOGS

102

SPIT Z-T YPE DOGS

Alaskan Malamute
HEIGHT
2328in
(5871cm)

WEIGHT
84123lb
(3856kg)

LIFE SPAN
1215 years

WORTH THEIR WEIGHT


IN GOLD

Variety of colors
All dogs have white underparts.

A large, sled-pulling dog that can adapt well to family


life given sufcient space and exercise
The wolflike Alaskan Malamute is
named after the Native American Mahlemut
people who bred these dogs to pull heavy
loads and travel great distances across
the snow when sleds were the only mode
of transport. Today it is still used to haul
freight in remote North American locations,
and successfully takes part in dogsled
racing competitions. Also used on polar
expeditions, this breed has staggering
amounts of stamina, strength, and
tenacity combined with a highly tuned
sense of direction and smell.
For all its toughness, the Alaskan
Malamute is a friendly dog, at least toward
people, which means that it cannot be relied
on as a guard dog. It likes children but is
too big and boisterous to be left alone
with a small child. The Alaskan Malamute,
especially the male, tends to be intolerant
of strange dogs, and without thorough

socializing can quickly become aggressive.


The breed also has a strong chasing
instinct and can disappear far and fast
in pursuit of small animals that it sees
as prey. Owners should be cautious about
where and when to exercise this dog off
the leash. A quick learner, the Alaskan
Malamute has a strong will, so needs
rm handling and training in good
habits right from the start.
The Alaskan Malamute settles well into
domestic life as long as it has at least two
hours of exercise each day and a yard to roam
in. A bored dog, with energy to spare, can be
destructive if left at home without
supervision. Although its thick coat sheds
in spring, there is a risk of overheating if
the dog is overexercised in hot weather,
and so needs access to shade. The hardy
Alaskan Malamute is happy to sleep
outdoors, provided it has a companion.

During the 189699 Klondike Gold Rush,


prospectors would pay huge prices, up
to $1,500, for a team of Malamute dogs to
transport their equipment from supply towns
such as Skagway and Dawson City to the gold
elds. Each man was required to carry enough
supplies to last him for one year, including
1,000lb (454kg) of food. In winter a team of
Malamutes could haul half a ton of equipment
over the snow-covered terrain in subzero
temperatures. In summer, used as pack animals,
they could carry a 50lb (23kg) load over a
distance of 20 miles (32km).

Erect, triangular ears


with rounded tips and
furry inner surfaces

Slight furrow
between eyes

Furry tail curls


up over back

Wolf-gray

Black nose

Thicker hair
around neck

PUPPY

Heavily
muscled
thighs

Thick, coarse outer


coat over oily,
woolly, deep undercoat

White predominates
on underbody

103

C ATALOG OF BREEDS | SPIT Z-T YPE DOGS

Alaskan Klee Kai


HEIGHT
Toy: Up to 13in (33cm)
Miniature: 1315in (3338cm)
Standard: 1517in (3844cm)

WEIGHT
Toy: Up to 9lb (4kg)
Miniature: 915lb (47kg)
Standard: 1522lb (710kg)

A NEW BREED
This companion Spitz was created in Alaska by
Linda Spurlin and her family. The family mated
Alaskan and Siberian huskies with small dogs to
create a mini husky and gave their new breed
the name Klee Kai, derived from Inuit words
meaning little dog. Although the Alaskan Klee Kai
remains rare, the breed has been recognized by
some organizations and there are now breeders
groups in the US and several other countries.

LIFE SPAN
Over 10 years

Any color

This energetic and inquisitive mini husky is condent


with owners but wary of strangers
This miniature version of the Siberian
Husky (see p.101) was developed in the
1970s to be a house dog. The Alaskan Klee
Kai is found in three sizes: toy, miniature,
and standard. There are two forms of coat:
standard (short) and full (slightly longer
and thicker).
The Alaskan Klee Kai appreciates
company and likes to be treated as a pack
member within a family. However, unlike
its larger Husky cousins, it is reserved with
strangers, so requires careful training and
early socializing. Any children in the family
need to be taught to treat the dog gently,
as the Alaskan Klee Kai can snap if teased.

It is highly intelligent and curious,


so enjoys obedience and agility contests,
and some Alaskan Klee Kais have been
trained as therapy dogs.
The Alaskan Klee Kai ts well in a
modest-sized home but, like its larger
relative, has a great deal of energy and
needs plenty of exercise, including a long
walk each day, to stay in good physical
and mental health. In addition, it is highly
vocal, especially when talking to its
family (this trait also makes Alaskan Klee
Kais good watchdogs). The dogs molt
twice a year, and the full-coated type
needs regular grooming.

Distinct stop
Triangular,
erect ears
Dense,
moderately
long coat
Heavy-coated,
brushlike tail
Eyes of
this dog
are
different
colors
Tapering
muzzle

Characteristic
facial mask

Black
and white
Wolf-gray
MINIATURE,
STANDARD COAT

STANDARD,
STANDARD COAT
Lighter-colored
underparts

104

SPIT Z-T YPE DOGS

Canadian Eskimo Dog


HEIGHT 2028in (5070cm)
WEIGHT 4088lb (1840kg)
LIFE SPAN Over 10 years

Any color
Any markings allowed.

One of the oldest breeds of sled dog in the world, the Canadian
Eskimo Dog, or Inuit Dog, is built for survival in the harshest
conditions. This breed has a natural instinct for running
with a pack and enjoys company, either canine or human.
Training should be rm, ideally with
plenty of fun.

Tail carried up or
curled over back

Short, straight,
muscular neck

Short hair
lines ears

Thick coat
has coarse
outer hairs

Deep,
broad chest

Piebald

Powerful
jaws

Large, round,
arched feet

Karelian Bear Dog

Chinook
HEIGHT 2226in (5566cm)
WEIGHT 5571lb (2532kg)
LIFE SPAN 1015 years

HEIGHT 2022in (5257cm)


WEIGHT 4451lb (2023kg)
LIFE SPAN 1012 years

Developed as a sled dog at the beginning of the 20th century


in the US, the Chinook is the result of various crosses between
mastiffs, the Greenland Dog (see p.100), and shepherd dogs.
Active but gentle-natured, this is a fun-loving breed and
makes an excellent all-around family dog.
Welldened
thigh muscles

Developed in Finland, this fearless hunting dog was bred to


challenge big game, particularly bear and elk. The Karelian
Bear Dog has a strong ghting instinct, which does not turn into
aggression against people but may cause problems with other dogs.
This breed is unlikely to settle well into domestic life.
Thicker hair
on neck

Mediumlength coat

Straight,
coarse-textured,
outer coat

V-shaped ears,
slightly darker
than body

Well-dened
white markings

Sandy

Ruff of
longer hair
around neck

Black and
white
Slightly
tucked-up
belly

Oval feet with


webbed toes

105

C ATALOG OF BREEDS | SPIT Z-T YPE DOGS

Samoyed
HEIGHT
1822in
(4656cm)

WEIGHT
3566lb
(1630kg)

LIFE SPAN
Over 12 years

This strikingly attractive dog has a high-maintenance coat,


but its cheerful disposition makes it an excellent family pet
Developed by the nomadic Samoyedic
people of Siberia, this beautiful dog was
used for herding and guarding reindeer
and for sled-hauling. Although a tough,
outdoor worker, it was also very much a
family dog, taking its place in its owners
tent and enjoying human companionship.
These dogs were brought to England in
the 1800s and were rst seen in the US
around a decade later. Numerous myths
and unsubstantiated stories link the
Samoyeds to the polar expeditions of
the late 19th and early 20th centuries,
but it appears likely that this breed
was included among sled teams taken
to the Antarctic during the heyday of
polar exploration.
The modern Samoyed retains the
sociable and easygoing temperament that
made it so valued as part of a nomadic
family. Behind the smiling expression
characteristic of the breed is an affectionate
nature and a desire to be friends with
everyone. However, the Samoyed retains
the watchdog instincts for which it was
bred. Although never aggressive, it will
bark at anything that arouses its suspicion.

THE NOMADS COMPANION


Traditionally, the Samoyed dog has played a
central part in the lives of its Siberian owners,
and for some remote communities it still does
today (right). The nomads depended on their
dogs for guarding their reindeer herds and
encampments. These working dogs were also
members of the family; Samoyeds were allowed
free access to the choom (family tent), shared
the familys food, and would sleep with the
children to keep them warm. The Samoyedic
people revered their dogs, and in return the
dogs developed a notable gentleness and
sympathy toward humans.

106

This dog craves company and likes to be kept


occupied mentally and physically. Intelligent
and spirited, a bored or lonely Samoyed will
resort to mischiefwhether it is digging
holes or nding a way to escape through a
fence. The breed responds well to thoughtful
handling, but training requires patience and
persistence on the part of its owner.
Daily grooming is essential to keep
the Samoyeds magnicent, stand-out
coat in order and maintain its distinctive
silvery sheen. Seasonal shedding of the
undercoat can be very heavy but, except
in very warm conditions, normally
occurs only once a year.

PUPPY

Long, bushy tail


carried over
back, falls to
one side

SPIT Z-T YPE DOGS

Dark eyes rimmed


with black

Erect, round-tipped ears


thickly lined with hair

Muscular, broad back

Ruff of longer,
denser hair
around neck

White

Broad, wedgeshaped head

Thick, soft coat


with silver-tipped
outer hairs

Typical smiling
expression

Feathering on
back of front legs

107

C ATALOG OF BREEDS | SPIT ZT YPE DOGS

East Siberian Laika

West Siberian Laika


HEIGHT 2024in (5162cm)
WEIGHT 4049lb (1822kg)
LIFE SPAN 1012 years

HEIGHT 2125in (5364cm)


WEIGHT 4051lb (1823kg)
LIFE SPAN 1012 years

Variety of colors

The popularity of this Russian hunting dog is widespread in its


own country and also reaches into Scandinavia. Bred for work, the
East Siberian Laika is tough, active, and condent. Although it has
a strong instinct for following big game, it is controllable,
steady-tempered, and
friendly with people.

Bred for hunting in the forests of Siberia, this handsome


dog is very popular in its native country. The breed is strong
and condent and eager to follow game, either large or small.
Although the West Siberian Laika has a steady temperament,
its readiness to hunt makes it unsuitable as
a house dog for most families.

Straight coat with


lighter woolly
underlayer

Coat on neck and


shoulders forms
longer collar

Tail carried
in tight curl
over back

White
Karamis
Piebald

Erect ears
thickly lined
with hair

High-set ears
held erect
Sable

Sandy

Long, muscular
upper forelegs

Sable
black
Feet with hair
between toes

White
legs with
darker
speckles

Finnish Spitz

Russian-European Laika
HEIGHT 1923in (4858cm)
WEIGHT 4451lb (2023kg)
LIFE SPAN 1012 years

Broad head

HEIGHT 1520in (3950cm)


WEIGHT 3135lb (1416kg)
LIFE SPAN 1215 years

White
Black

This Laika was only acknowledged as a distinct breed in


the early 1940s. Strong but lean-limbed, the Russian-European
Laika has been used mainly for hunting in Russias northern
forests. A steady worker, this dog is excellent when
Black
nose
used for its traditional purpose but does not adapt
well to a domestic lifestyle.

Finlands national dog was bred for hunting small game and is still
used for sports in Scandinavia. With its pert, foxlike appearance,
luxuriant coat, and enthusiasm for play, the Finnish Spitz makes
an appealing family pet. The breed has a tendency
Small,
to bark a great deal; this should be discouraged
pointed
ears
at an early age.
Coat has sparsely
distributed black hair

Tail carried
over back
Hair on hind
legs forms
breeches

Square,
strong body

Bushy tail
Foxlike
head with
narrow muzzle

Narrow,
triangular
head
Black

Reddish
brown
Muscled,
slender legs

108

Harsh-textured
coat with white
markings

Lightly
colored
underparts

SPIT ZT YPE DOGS

Lapponian Herder

Finnish Lapphund
HEIGHT 1719in (4449cm)
WEIGHT 3353lb (1524kg)
LIFE SPAN 1215 years

HEIGHT 1820in (4651cm)


WEIGHT Up to 66lb (30kg)
LIFE SPAN 1112 years

Any color

Developed from the dogs used as caribou herders and guards


by the Sami people of Lapland, the Finnish Lapphund is enjoying
growing popularity, both in Finland and elsewhere. Affectionate
and faithful, this adaptable breed is willing to work, but is equally
happy as a family pet and watchdog.
Profusely
long-haired tail

Originally bred from Finnish Lapphunds (left), German


Shepherd Dogs (see p.42), and working collies, this dog was
recognized as a separate breed in the 1960s. The Lapponian
Herder, or Lapinporokoira, is still kept for work by caribou
hunters, and sometimes as a house dog. This breed has
a calm and friendly nature.
Erect ears lined
with dense hair

Black
Dense coat
Fairly
wide-set, oval,
dark eyes

Long,
dense coat
Dark
brown
Erect
ears

Black

Tan
markings
Thick mane,
especially
in males
Feathering on
back of front legs

Well arched,
oval feet

Brown
Black and brown
May have white mark on chest, feet,
and tip of tail.

Similar to the Finnish Lapphund (above) in all but color,


the Swedish Lapphund was once used as a caribou herder by the
nomadic Sami people. This breed is popular in Sweden as a house
dog but remains uncommon elsewhere. It enjoys company and
tends to bark if left alone for long periods.
Long-haired, bushy
tail curled over back

Tan
markings
on deep
chest

Swedish Elkhound

Swedish Lapphund
HEIGHT 1620in (4051cm)
WEIGHT 4246lb (1921kg)
LIFE SPAN 915 years

Oval feet covered


with thick hair

HEIGHT 2026in (5265cm)


WEIGHT Up to 66lb (30kg)
LIFE SPAN 1213 years

Developed in Swedens northern forest regions, this large,


upstanding dog, also known as the Jmthund, was once kept for
hunting elk, bear, and lynx. Popular with Swedens military forces,
this breed is the countrys national dog. Although
good with families, the Swedish Elkhound needs
careful handling when around other dogs or pets.

Dense coat
stands out
from body

Dense
topcoat

Erect ears
set well apart

Gray

High-set,
erect ears
lined with
thick hair

Wedgeshaped
head

Wolike
head

Cream
undercoat
Black

Characteristic
lighter
markings
Strong
oval feet

Compact,
oval feet

109

C ATALOG OF BREEDS

| SPIT Z-T YPE DOGS

Black Norwegian
Elkhound

Norwegian Elkhound
HEIGHT 1920in (4952cm)
WEIGHT 4451lb (2023kg)
LIFE SPAN 1215 years

Believed to have existed in Scandinavia for many


hundreds of years, the Norwegian Elkhound was
once used for tracking game, and is sturdy enough
for sled hauling. Impervious to cold and wet
weather, this dog likes to be outdoors.
The breed has a strong hunting instinct
and needs patient training.

HEIGHT 1719in (4349cm)


WEIGHT 4060lb (1827kg)
LIFE SPAN 1215 years

Clearly
dened
stop on
head

Short,
compact body

Tightly curled
tail carried high

Thick ruff
around
neck

This breed is a smaller, rarer version of the


gray-coated Norwegian Elkhound (left). Originally
bred for tracking game, it is versatile enough to be
a sled dog, herder, watchdog, or family companion.
It tends to bark readily but
can be taught to stop
Solid black
on command.

Pointed ears
with wide base

Short, thick tail


curls over back
Tapering
muzzle

Broad top of head

Gray

Black
muzzle

Weatherproof
coat

Black-tipped
hairs on parts
of outer coat

Hokkaido Dog
HEIGHT 1820in (4652cm)
WEIGHT 4466lb (2030kg)
LIFE SPAN 1113 years

Dogs of this type were brought to


the Japanese island of Hokkaido by the
migrating Ainu people (Ainu Dog is
the breeds alternative name). Although
medium-sized, the Hokkaido Dog
was bold and tough enough to
hunt bear. Careful training and
socializing can make this dog
a good companion and
home guardian.

Variety of colors

Thick tail
curled
over back

Strong,
straight back

Smallish, dark,
triangular eyes

Muscular
neck
Coarse, straight coat

110

Sesame

Akita
HEIGHT
American: 2428in (6171cm)
Japanese: 2328in (5870cm)

WEIGHT
American: 65115lb (2952kg)
Japanese: 7599lb (3445kg)

LIFE SPAN
1012 years

Any color

This strong dog has a variable temperament and requires


experienced handling to avoid wayward behavior
This big, powerful breed is descended
from hunting dogs bred in the rugged
Akita Prefecture, on the island of Honshu
in Japan, to hunt large quarry such as deer,
bear, and wild boar. The Japanese Akita,
or Akita Inu, was rst developed in the
19th century as a ghting and hunting
dog. The breed is a national treasure of
Japan, and the dogs are seen as symbols
of good luck.
The rst Akita Inu was brought to the
US in 1937 by Helen Keller. American
servicemen returning home after World
War II brought more Akitas with them,

THE FAITHFUL HACHI-KO


Born in 1923, Hachi-ko was an Akita Inu. Each
day when his owner, Professor Ueno, went to
work, Hachi-ko accompanied him to Tokyos
Shibuya Station, then waited all day to walk
home with him. In 1925 Professor Ueno died
at work. Hachi-ko waited for himfor more than
10 years. He became a national hero for his
loyalty, and when he died, Japan held a day of
mourning. A statue of Hachi-ko was erected at
Shibuya Station (below), and each year a
ceremony is held to honor him.

and these formed the basis of the American


Akita, which is the breed now known
as Akita today. The American Akita is
recognized in many countries as a separate
breed from the Akita Inu, and is larger and
more imposing than its Japanese forebear.
The Akita is a substantial and strikingly
handsome dog. It has a quiet dignity, is
loyal and protective toward its human
family, and is especially good with children.
However, it tends to be domineering with
other dogs. This breed needs an experienced
owner and clear rules set at a young age to
prevent bad behavior.

Thick, bushy tail


curls over back

Fawn

Black overlay
Triangular,
erect ears

Black
face mask
Deep,
wide chest

Red-fawn
White markings

Coarse outer coat


stands away from body
Well developed
muscular
hindquarters

White chest markings


extend down to feet
AMERICAN AKITA

JAPANESE AKITA INU

111

C ATALOG OF BREEDS | SPIT Z-T YPE DOGS

SPIT Z-T YPE DOGS

Chow Chow
HEIGHT
1822in
(4656 cm)

WEIGHT
4671lb
(2132kg)

THE PET THERAPY


PIONEER

LIFE SPAN
812 years

Cream
Blue
Fawn
Black
All colors may be shaded but not in patches

This handsome dog with a coat like a teddy bear is loyal


to its owner but can be reserved with strangers
Dogs of this type have been known in China
for at least 2,000 years; one bas-relief carving
from about 150 BCE shows hunters with dogs
resembling Chow Chows. The dogs original
uses included hunting birds, guarding
livestock, and, in winter, pulling sleds. In
addition, some of these dogs were raised as
a source of meat and fur. They were prized
by emperors and the nobility; in the 8th
century CE one Tang dynasty
emperor had 5,000 chowlike
dogs in his kennels.
The rst few dogs
reached the West in the
late 18th century. They
acquired the name Chow
Chow in England, where
the term simply referred to
curios brought back from
East Asia. The breeds name

in Chinese is actually Songshi Quan, often


translated as puffy lion dog. Larger
numbers were imported to the UK in the late
19th century, and when Queen Victoria
obtained one, their popularity was assured.
The dogs were rst shown in the US in 1890
but were not popular there until the 1920s.
The Chow Chow is now usually kept as a
pet. Rather aloof in nature, the breed is
devoted to its family but may be wary of
strangers. It can have a dominant character,
so needs rm training and early socializing.
It requires only moderate exercise but benets
from the mental stimulation of a daily walk.
The breed is notable for its thick coat and
lionlike ruff, its furrowed face, and its
blue-black tongue. There are two varieties:
rough-coated with an immensely thick,
upstanding coat, and smooth-coated, with
short, dense hair.

Today many different dogs are used as therapy


dogs to comfort troubled or stressed people. The
rst canine therapy assistant was a Chow Chow
named Jo-Fi, who worked with the father of
psychoanalysis himself: Sigmund Freud (below, in
Austria c.1935). During therapy sessions, Jo-Fi
would remain in the room with Freud and was
given clues to the clients mental state. Jo-Fi
would stay close to quiet or depressed people,
but move away from those who were tense.
Freud noted that Jo-Fi had a calming, reassuring
inuence on his clients, particularly children.

PUPPY

Profuse coat stands


out from body

Distinctive stop

Small, thick,
rounded,
erect ears

Blue-black
tongue

Characteristic
scowling
expression

Red

Lighter hair on
back of legs
ROUGH-COATED

Small, round feet

113

C ATALOG OF BREEDS | SPIT Z-T YPE DOGS

Korean Jindo

Shikoku
HEIGHT 1820in (4652cm)
WEIGHT 3557lb (1626kg)
LIFE SPAN 1012 years

HEIGHT 1821in (4653cm)


WEIGHT 2051lb (923kg)
LIFE SPAN 1215 years

Sesame and black sesame

Once used as a boar hunter in remote mountain regions of


Japan, the Shikoku remained largely inaccessible for crossbreeding.
As a result, this breed is very true to its origins. Resilient, agile,
and keen to chase other animals, the Shikoku is challenging to
train but forms a close bond with people it loves and trusts.

White
Red
Black and tan

Named after the Korean island of Jindo where it originated,


the breed is popular in Korea but something of a rarity elsewhere.
Used to hunt game, both large and small, the Korean Jindos
keen instinct for chasing other animals may be difcult to curb.
Fawn
Stiff hairs stand
away from body

Firmly erect ears


Typical spitz tail
Red sesame
Longer coat on
backs of thighs
Erect, pointed
ears lined with
dense hairs

Dark eyes have


keen expression
Muscular,
thick neck
Powerful
hindquarters

Thicker
hair on
neck

Tucked-up
belly

Deep
chest

Rounded,
catlike feet

Kai

Shiba Inu
HEIGHT 1516in (3740cm)
WEIGHT 1524lb (711kg)
LIFE SPAN 1215 years

White

Black and tan

Red dogs may have a black overlay


(red sesame).

Japans smallest hunting dog, the Shiba Inu is a national


treasure and has been known in its native country for hundreds
of years. Bold and lively, the Shiba Inu makes a happy
family dog, but can be unreliable if not socialized early
on, and needs to have its
Red
hunting instinct
Coarse-haired
coat
controlled outdoors.

HEIGHT 1921in (4853cm)


WEIGHT 2455lb (1125kg)
LIFE SPAN 1215 years

One of the oldest and purest of Japans native dog breeds, the Kai
was given the status of national treasure in 1934. An active and
athletic hunter, used to running in packs, this dog may settle
reasonably well into being a home companion but is not
recommended for a novice owner.
Strong,
thick neck
High-set tail carried
curved over back

Longer-haired tail
carried in high curl
Erect ears
incline slightly
forward

Small, triangular ears


incline slightly forward

Whitish
undermarkings
Rounded,
catlike feet

114

Range of red brindles

Brindle

Head broad
with well-dened
stop and tapering
muzzle
Coat changes
from solid color to
brindle as
dog matures

SPIT Z-T YPE DOGS

Japanese Spitz

Kishu
HEIGHT 1820in (4652cm)
WEIGHT 2960lb (1327kg)
LIFE SPAN 1113 years

HEIGHT 1215in (3037cm)


WEIGHT 1122lb (510kg)
LIFE SPAN Over 12 years

Now rare but much prized, the Kishu was possibly bred
hundreds of years ago for hunting large game in Japans
mountainous Kyushu region. A national treasure, this
dog is quiet and faithful but can be a handful as a
companion because of its strong instinct to chase.
Short, straight,
well-muscled back

Erect ears
incline
forward

Although the Japanese Spitz looks like a miniature version of the


Samoyed (see p.106), there is no evidence that the two have a common
descent. The breed was developed in Japan, and the popularity of
this bright and energetic little dog has spread worldwide. Persistent
barking is characteristic but can be controlled with training.

Some longer
black hairs

Pure white

Thick, fringed
tail carried in
curl over back

Long mane covers


neck and shoulders

Profuse,
long coat
Small ears
carried erect

White

Short,
straight,
coarse coat

Red

White markings on
feet and lower legs

Small,
round,
catlike
feet

Small,
round,
black nose

Italian Volpino

Eurasier
HEIGHT 1924in (4860cm)
WEIGHT 4071lb (1832kg)
LIFE SPAN Over 12 years

Any color
Coats should not be all white, liver,
or with white patches.

HEIGHT 1012in (2530cm)


WEIGHT 911lb (45kg)
LIFE SPAN Up to 16 years

Red

A favorite in Italy for over a century, this appealing little


dog was kept by nobility as a pampered pet, and by farmers
as a watchdog. Quick to bark at strangers, the Italian Volpino
alerted bigger guard dogs to potential trouble. Lively and funloving, the breed is suitable for almost any type of home.

A modern and still rare breed, the Eurasier was created


in Germany in the 1960s from crossing the Chow Chow
(see p.112), German Wolfspitz (see p.117), and
Samoyed (see p.106). A good
Harsh-textured
companion dog, it is
topcoat
Straight,
even-tempered and
strong back
calm but watchful.
Fawn
It readily forms
close family bonds.

Long-haired tail
carried in curl

Long,
dense coat

Short
muzzle

White

Triangular,
erect ears

Well feathered
hindquarters

Dark face
mask

Round eyes

Coat with
black hairs

Collar of
longer hair

Thick
collar of hair
around neck

115

C ATALOG OF BREEDS | SPIT ZT YPE DOGS

German Spitz
HEIGHT
Klein: 911in (2329cm)
Mittel: 1215in (3038cm)
Gross: 1720in (4250cm)

WEIGHT
Klein: 1822lb (810kg)
Mittel: 2426lb (1112kg)
Gross: 3740lb (1718kg)

LIFE SPAN
1415 years

Variety of colors

GROSS

A bustling and happy dog, with good watchdog instincts,


the German Spitz is quick to learn and suitable for any home
There are three sizes of the German
SpitzKlein (small) and Mittel (medium)
are both recognized by the KC, and Gross
(giant) is recognized by the FCI. They are
all descendants of the herding dogs once
used by nomadic tribes of the Arctic.
Traditionally, German Spitz dogs were
used for hunting and livestock herding,
and as watchdogs; their thick undercoat and
tough outer coat protected them in the cold
and wet. During the 19th century the dogs
became more popular as companion and
show dogs. Some of these dogs were also
exported to the US and gave rise to the
American Eskimo Dog (see p.121). All
varieties of German Spitz are relatively rare.
Tail curls
over back

German Spitzes enjoy lots of human


attention, but they need careful training
because they have an independent spirit
that can turn into willfulness without
rm leadership. The dogs can get along well
with children if they are taught to respect
them. Once their place in the family has
been established, these cheerful, affectionate
dogs are excellent companions for owners of
all ages. The immensely thick coat must be
groomed thoroughly every day to keep it
from becoming matted.

AGE AND WISDOM?


In a 19th-century German fable, illustrated below,
a Spitz dog outwits a Pug that is trying to steal
its bone. Whether Spitz breeds really are more
intelligent than Pugs is not known, but Spitz
breeds were considered to be one of the oldest
breeds. In 1750, based on his knowledge of the
German Spitz, German naturalist Count Buffon
suggested that the Spitz was the ancestor of
all domestic dogs. Modern genetic evidence
supports Buffons idea that some Spitz dogs
originated early, but today no one breed is
considered ancestral to all others, and comparative
intelligence is still a matter of debate.

Compact,
square body

Short hair on face


Moderately
broad head

Wolf-sable

Thick frill
around neck
and shoulders

Profuse double
coat with long
outer hair

Long
feathering on
back of legs

Orange-sable
MITTEL

KLEIN

116

SPIT ZT YPE DOGS

Schipperke

Wedge-shaped,
foxlike head

HEIGHT 1013in (2533cm)


WEIGHT 1318lb (68kg)
LIFE SPAN Over 12 years

Variety of colors

Sometimes called the Belgian Barge Dog,


this breed was once used by Flemish
riverboatmen to guard their barges and
keep down rat populations. In the house
the Schipperke has lost none of its
watchful instincts and is wary of
strangers. A dog with a lively
and likable personality,
it is an entertaining
companion.

Small,
triangular
ears

Tail naturally
very short

Black

Long
culottes on
back of thighs
Distinctive mane
and cape around
neck and shoulders

Dense coat

Thickset body

German Wolfspitz

Keeshond
HEIGHT 1718in (4346cm)
WEIGHT 3344lb (1520kg)
LIFE SPAN 1215 years

HEIGHT 1722in (4355cm)


WEIGHT 6071lb (2732kg)
LIFE SPAN 1215 years

The Keeshond was used in the 18th century by the riverboatmen


and farmers of Holland as a watchdog. Not aggressive, this
intelligent and outgoing breed has an amiable nature that
makes it a much-loved companion dog. The Keeshond
is willing to learn, and it mixes well with
people and other pets.

The German Wolfspitz is one of the oldest-known European


dogs. It has given rise to the Keeshond (left) and in some countries
the two are not regarded as separate breeds. Highly trainable, it is
eager to be a part of family life. Suspicious of strangers, this dog
barks readily but is not aggressive.
Bushy tail

Gray, black,
and cream

Short, straight back

Long topcoat

Hair forms dense


breeches on back
of thighs

Gray, black,
and cream

Characteristic
spectacle
markings
around eyes

Small, triangular,
erect ears

Long, thick
ruff around
neck

Thick mane
over neck
and
shoulders

117

C ATALOG OF BREEDS | SPIT Z-T YPE DOGS

Pomeranian
HEIGHT
911in
(2228cm)

WEIGHT
57lb
(23kg)

LIFE SPAN
1215 years

Any solid color


Should be free from
black or white shading.

This affectionate miniature dog is brave and protective


despite its small size, and it makes an excellent family pet
This breed, the smallest of the German
Spitz-type dogs (see p.116), is known in some
countries as the dwarf Spitz (Zwergspitz
or Spitz nain). The Pomeranian takes its
name from the region of Pomerania (now
in northern Poland/northeast Germany),
where its ancestors were bred as sheepdogs.
The original dogs from Pomerania were
much larger than todays dogs, weighing
as much as 31lb (14kg), and were usually
white. These Spitz-type dogs were imported
from Europe into the UK from the 1760s
onward; all dogs of this type were generally
known as Pomeranians, whatever their
country of origin.
During the late 19th century the
Pomeranian was selectively bred down to
toy size, partly due to Queen Victorias
enthusiasm for smaller dogs. Small
Spitz-type dogs of different colors were
imported from Germany and Italy to
develop the breed (and to eliminate the
old Pomeranians tendency to be snappy).
Breeders clubs were set up in the UK in
1891 and in the US in 1900. During
the 20th century the breeds main

characteristicsits small size, luxuriant


puffball coat, and cheerful nature
were further rened.
The intelligent, lively Pomeranian is an
affectionate pet. It enjoys human company
and will become devoted to its owner.
However, the breed needs rm but gentle
training so that it will not become overly
dominant. Amazingly fast for their
size, these dogs should be supervised
if running loose. The thick coat is not
difcult to groom but needs to be
brushed every few days.

PUPPY

ROYAL PATRONAGE
When Queen Charlotte, wife of George III, came to
Britain in 1761 she was accompanied by several white
spitz dogs. These dogs were much larger than
Pomeranians are today but were nevertheless the
favored companion of German courtiers of the time.
The dogs rapidly became popular in Britain and
feature in several paintings by Gainsborough, such as
The Morning Walk (right). The popularity of the breed
increased further when Queen Victoria acquired several
smaller Pomeranians on a trip to Italy in 1888.

MR. AND MRS. WILLIAM HALLETT


(THE MORNING WALK) BY
THOMAS GAINSBOROUGH, 1785

118

Longer hair on
hindquarters

SPIT Z-T YPE DOGS


Heavily plumed tail
carried over back

Small, erect ears

Orange

Slightly oval, blackrimmed, dark eyes

Abundant frill
around neck,
shoulders,
and chest

Smooth-haired,
foxlike face

Soft, uffy
coat

Shorter hair
on lower legs

119

C ATALOG OF BREEDS | SPIT ZT YPE DOGS

Icelandic Sheepdog
HEIGHT 1718in (4246cm)
WEIGHT 2031lb (914kg)
LIFE SPAN 1215 years

Gray
Chocolate-brown
Tan and gray dogs may have black masks.

Black

Also called the Friaar Dog, this hardy, muscular breed was
brought to Iceland by early settlers. Its agility over rugged
terrain and shallow water plus its sharp barking make it
perfect for herding livestock. As a pet, it requires
plenty of exercise. There are two coat types:
long-haired and short-haired.

Typical spitz tail


curls over back

Erect ears slightly


rounded at tips
Smallish,
powerful body
Black
pigmented lips

Thick,
waterproof coat
White
markings
on face

LONG-HAIRED
Tan with white
markings

Norwegian Lundehund
HEIGHT 1315in (3238cm)
WEIGHT 1315lb (67kg)
LIFE SPAN 12 years

White
Gray
Black

Black and gray coats have white markings;


white coat has dark markings.

Also called the Norwegian Puffin Dog,


this amazingly agile dog can tilt its head
back over its shoulder and splay its
forelegs out sideways. It was once used as
a pufn-hunter, and these traits, as well
as a double dewclaw on each foot,
enabled the dog to reach precarious
nests. As a pet, it needs plenty of
training and exercise.

Reddish brown

Black
lips

Dense coat
sheds heavily

Double
dewclaw

120

Black tips
to some
of hairs

Six toes on
each foot

SPIT ZT YPE DOGS

Norwegian Buhund

Nordic Spitz
HEIGHT 1718in (4245cm)
WEIGHT 1833lb (815kg)
LIFE SPAN 1520 years

HEIGHT 1618in (4146cm)


WEIGHT 2640lb (1218kg)
LIFE SPAN 1215 years

Red
Red, wheaten, and wolf-sable coats may
have black mask, ears, and tip to tail.

This medium-sized, agile farm dog was once used to


guard against bears and wolves. Today the breed thrives
when it has plenty of exercise and constant training.
A sharp barker that molts heavily twice a year, this
dog may not be ideal for
Long, thick, harsh
a house-proud owner.
topcoat with soft,

This small, light spitz is Swedens national dog. Its local


name, Norbottenspets, means spitz from the county of
Bothnia. It was once used to hunt squirrels and,
more recently, game birds. A bright-eyed,
Foxlike head
with typical
bushy-tailed dog, the Nordic Spitz is
tan markings
not difcult to train, but requires
regular exercise.

Pronounced
stop

woolly undercoat
Tightly curled tail
carried over back

Compact
body

Triangular,
erect ears

Erect,
black ears

Black
White

Well-dened
tan patch on
hindquarters

Short,
straight coat

Wheaten

Lighter
underparts

American Eskimo Dog


HEIGHT Miniature: 912in (2330cm); Toy: 1215in (3038cm); Standard: Over 1519in (3848cm)
WEIGHT Miniature: 711lb (35kg); Toy: 1120lb (59kg); Standard: 2040lb (918kg)
LIFE SPAN 1213 years

Despite its name, this is not a true Eskimo breed, but was
developed in Germany and probably brought to the US by
German settlers in the 19th century. Once seen performing
tricks in traveling circuses, the American Eskimo Dog is
a fast learner and eager to please. The breed comes in
three sizes: toy, miniature, and standard.
Triangular, erect, slightly
blunt-tipped ears

White
Long guard hairs
form topcoat

Round, blackrimmed eyes


set well apart

Jet-black
lips

MINIATURE

TOY

Profuse ruff at
neck and chest

121

C ATALOG OF BREEDS | SPIT Z-T YPE DOGS

Papillon
HEIGHT
811in
(2028cm)

WEIGHT
511lb
(25kg)

LIFE SPAN
14 years

White
Black and white
White coats may have any color patches except liver.

Dainty and delightful, but denitely not delicate, this dog


makes a fun-loving and intelligent companion
The Papillon is named for its erect, fringed
ears, resembling buttery wings (the word
papillon is French for buttery). The
breed is descended from the dwarf
spaniels that were popular in the royal
courts of Europe from the Renaissance
onward. This type of dog was often
portrayed in paintings of and for the
nobility, such as the 1538 Venus of Urbino
by Titian. In 17th-century France similar
dogs were imported and bred at the court
of Louis XIV, and in the 18th century they
were the pampered favorites of Madame
de Pompadour and Marie Antoinette.
The earliest form of the Papillon had
drop ears; this type still exists and is
known as the Phalne (French for moth).
Toward the end of the 19th century the
modern Papillon with its erect ears began
to appear, and this version is now much
more commonly seen. In both types the
ears are notable for their long, silky fringes.
Long-fringed,
buttery-wing ears

In the UK and the US, both the Papillon


and the Phalne are regarded as the same
breed, since the two types can occur in
the same litter. The FCI refers to both
types as Continental Toy Spaniels.
Today the Papillon is most often
seen as a pet or in the show ring.
These lively, intelligent dogs love
human companionship and enjoy
plenty of play and exercise. They
require early socializing with
other dogs and strangers,
since some individuals can be
nervous. The long, ne, silky
coat needs daily grooming to
prevent mats from forming.

Head rounded
between drop ears

Tricolor

PAPILLON
White
with black
patches

PHALNE

122

Long, plumed tail


falls over back

SPIT Z-T YPE DOGS

Pronounced
stop

Full, soft coat


Level back

Fine, pointed muzzle


on rounded head

FRENCH COURT LAPDOG


In the past lapdogs were luxuries that only the
wealthy could afford. Small, spaniel-like
dogs, resembling the Papillon, start to appear
alongside their owners in portraits painted
around 1500. Their popularity in Continental
Europe continued to increase, and by the
18th century the Papillon had become a
rm favorite of the French court (as can be
seen in Jean Baptiste Greuzes 1774 portrait of
Madame de Porcin, below). Marie Antoinette
kept them as boudoir dogs and it is said that,
in 1793, she carried her dog Thisbe with her
to the guillotine.

Deep chest

Tricolor
Elongated,
harelike feet

123

High speed
On the racetrack, greyhounds have
been recorded as reaching top speeds
of around 45mph (72km/h). They are
one of the fastest living animals.

SIGHT HOUNDS

SIGHT
HOUNDS
Canine speed merchants, the sight houndsor gazehounds as they are sometimes calledare
hunting dogs that locate and follow their prey primarily by using their keen eyesight. Streamlined,
lightly framed, but powerful, a sight hound in pursuit of quarry moves rapidly and turns with great
exibility. Many dogs in this group were bred to hunt specic prey.

As shown by archeological evidence,


lean, leggy dogs have been hunting
alongside humans for thousands of
years, but the early development
of modern sight hounds is not entirely
clear. It is likely that many crosses
involving a diversity of other breeds,
including terriers, went into the
creation of classic sight hounds such
as the Greyhound (see p.126) and the
Whippet (see p.128).
Most sight hounds are easily
recognizable as a type. Selective
breeding has developed characteristics
designed to promote speed: strong,
supple backs and an athletic build
enable the body to stretch out at full
gallop; long-striding, elastic limbs,
and powerful hindquarters to provide
impulsion. Another characteristic is
a long, narrow head that either lacks

a pronounced stop or, as in the case


of the Borzoi (see p.132), has no stop
at all. Typically in a sight hound bred
to hunt and snap up small prey, the
head is carried low when the dog
runs at full stretch. Another common
feature of sight hounds is a deep chest
accommodating a larger than usual
heart and allowing for good lung
capacity. Short or ne, silky coats
tend to be the norm among this
group of dogs; only the Afghan
Hound (see p.136) is very long-haired.
Graceful and aristocratic, sight
hounds during their history have
been the favored hunting dogs of the
wealthy and well born. Greyhounds,
or at least coursing dogs very similar
to the modern breed, were kept by
the pharaohs of ancient Egypt. For
centuries Salukis (see p.131) were,

and occasionally still are, used


by sheikhs for hunting gazelle in
the desert. In pre-Soviet Russia the
spectacular Borzoi was the dog of
choice for the nobility and even
royalty, specically bred for running
down and killing wolves.
Today sight hounds are used for
racing and coursing and are very
often kept as pets. Usually nonaggressive, although sometimes
a little aloof, sight hounds make
attractive family dogs but need to
be handled with caution when
outdoors and may be best exercised
on a leash. Their instinct to pursue
small animals can be strong enough
to override all obedience training.
A sight hound chasing after what
it perceives to be prey is almost
impossible to stop.

125

C ATALOG OF BREEDS | SIGHT HOUNDS

Greyhound
HEIGHT
2730in
(6976cm)

WEIGHT
6066lb
(2730kg)

MICK THE MILLER


LIFE SPAN
1112 years

Any color

Capable of astonishing speed, this dog makes a docile and


gentle family pet and is content with short bursts of exercise
Developed in the UK, the greyhounds
earliest ancestors were once thought to
have been the slender hounds depicted
in Egyptian tombs dating from around
4000BCE. However, DNA evidence has
suggested that, despite appearances, the
breed is more closely related to herding
dogs. Another possible ancestor is an
ancient Celtic dog called the Vertragus,
used for hunting and hare coursing.
Large, athletic sight hounds were known
in Britain by 1000CE. At rst they were
commonly used for hunting, but during
the Middle Ages only the aristocracy could
afford to keep them. In the 18th century
hare coursing became popular among the
upper classes, and the rst Greyhound
stud books were opened.

Capable of reaching 45mph (72km/h)


in short bursts, the sleek and powerful
Greyhound is built for running.
It is still used for hare coursing but is
more commonly seen at dog races. Some
Greyhounds are also bred for the show
ring; these are larger than racing dogs.
Retired racing Greyhounds are becoming
popular as pets. They are gentle and easy
to keep, requiring only moderate exercise,
but their slender frame and thin coat mean
that they need protection from the cold.

The UKs rst great racing Greyhound was an


Irish dog belonging to a priest. Born in 1926,
Mick the Miller was sickly as a pup but won 15
races in Ireland. He then triumphed at the 1929
Derby at Londons White City, breaking the
world speed record over 525 yards. From 1929
to 1931 Mick the Miller (right) won an array of
major races, and he
became a rm favorite
with the public. Once
retired, he earned
$90,000 in stud
fees, and also
appeared in a movie.
He died in 1939.

MICK BEING MASSAGED


WHILE IN TRAINING AT
WALTON-ON-THAMES

Long and
narrow head

Small, rose
ears, ne
in texture

Muscular, long,
slightly arched neck

Brindle

Short,
smooth coat

Deep chest
housing powerful
lungs and heart

Long, low-set,
tapering tail

126

Straight,
long
forelegs

Italian Greyhound
HEIGHT
1315in
(3238cm)

WEIGHT
911lb
(45kg)

LIFE SPAN
14 years

Variety of colors
Black and blue with tan markings,
and brindle not permitted.

This miniature, satin-skinned greyhound enjoys creature


comforts but needs more exercise than its size might suggest
This mini-greyhound originated in
Mediterranean countriessmall
greyhound-type dogs feature in Turkish and
Greek art dating from 2,000 years ago, and
a similar dog was found in the lava ows at
Pompeii. By the time of the Renaissance,
miniature greyhounds were much favored
pets in the Italian court. They were brought
to England in the 17th century and became
highly popular there and in the other royal
courts of Europe.
The Italian Greyhound needs daily
exercise and mental stimulation. Despite
its small size, the breed is fast and can
reach 40mph (64km/h) in a sudden burst.
It is highly energetic and intelligent, with
a strong chasing instinct. As suggested by

Short, satinsoft coat

its noble past, the Italian Greyhound loves


to be pampered. Usually devoted to its
human family, the breed needs plenty of
interaction with people, otherwise it may
become bored and wayward. It is more
hardy than its delicate frame would
suggest, but it can still be injured by
active children or other, larger dogs.
The breeds short coat and thin skin
make it susceptible to cold and wet weather,
so it will need a jacket when going outdoors
in wintry conditions.

A KINGS BEST FRIEND


Frederick the Great of Prussia (seen below, right,
in a wood engraving after an 18th century
drawing) was said to have owned more than
50 miniature greyhounds and even took one
to battle in his saddlebag during the Seven
Years War (175663). When this dog died,
Frederick had it buried at his favorite residence,
the Sanssouci Palace, in Potsdam. Frederick had
wished to be buried after death alongside his dog,
but his successor did not allow it. Frederick died
in 1786 but it was only in 1991 that his remains
were moved and his wish granted.

Large eyes

Red-fawn
Long, slender,
gracefully
arched neck

Fine, supple skin

Very ne
muzzle

Rose ears placed


well back
Long, at,
narrow head

Very
ne-boned
legs

Long, ne tail
set very low
ADULT AND
PUPPIES

127

C ATALOG OF BREEDS | SIGHT HOUNDS

Whippet
HEIGHT
1720in
(4451cm)

WEIGHT
2440lb
(1118kg)

LIFE SPAN
1215 years

Any color

The ultimate sprinter, this dog is calm, sweet-natured,


and adoring at home but remains an avid hunter
The fastest domesticated animal for its
weight, the Whippet is capable of speeds
of up to 35mph (56km/h). It has impressive
powers of acceleration, and can twist and
turn at speed with dexterity. This elegant
little dog was developed in the north of
England in the late 19th century by crossing
the Greyhound (see p.126) with various
terriers. Originally bred for hunting hare,
rabbit, and other small game, the Whippet
soon became popular as an affordable
sporting dog. Whippet racing, held wherever
there was enough space for dogs to sprint a
couple of hundred yards, became a regular
xture for working men of mill and mining

THE POOR MANS RACEHORSE


In the industrial areas of 19th-century England,
rag racing with Whippets, in which the dogs
chased a lure made of cloth, was immensely
popular. Working families took great pride in
their racing Whippets and valued the extra
income that winning dogs could earn. The
breed came to be known as the poor mans
racehorse. The owners lavished care on their
dogs, allowing them to share the familys food
and even the childrens beds.

towns. Today the breed is still used for


racing, as well as lure coursing and agility
trials, but is mostly kept as a pet.
Quiet, docile, and affectionate, the
Whippet behaves well in the house and
is gentle with children. A sensitive breed,
it needs tactful handling and is easily
distressed by rough play or harsh commands.
With its delicate skin and short, ne hair,
the Whippet needs to wear a coat in cold
weather. Its own coat is almost odor-free,
without a doggy smell even when wet.
Puppies with long coats are occasionally
born but are not ofcially recognized.
The Whippet has abundant energy and
should be given regular exercise and, in safe
areas, plenty of opportunity to run free. It
is generally good with other dogs but has
a strong hunting instinct and chases cats
and small animals if given the chance.
A Whippet will tolerate, or at least
ignore, a household cat if the two are
raised together, but it should not be left
unsupervised with other family pets such
as rabbits or guinea pigs. This breed is
wary of strangers, so it makes a
reasonable watchdog. Toward its
owners, the Whippet shows
unswerving loyalty.

Fine-haired,
short coat

Long, tapering
tail reaches as
far as hock

Neat, oval feet with


well arched toes

THE CRADLEY HEATH


WHIPPET RACING
CLUB, UK, 1961

128

SIGHT HOUNDS

Rose ears

Brindle
and white
Muscular,
elegant outline
Darker muzzle

Silver-fawn

Expressive,
oval eyes

Tucked-up
belly
Well muscled
hindquarters
Deep chest

129

C ATALOG OF BREEDS | SIGHT HOUNDS

Hungarian Greyhound

Rampur Greyhound
HEIGHT 2230in (5675cm)
WEIGHT 5966lb (2730kg)
LIFE SPAN 810 years

HEIGHT 2428in (6270cm)


WEIGHT 5588lb (2540kg)
LIFE SPAN 1214 years

Any color

Now rare, the Rampur Greyhound was once the favorite


sporting companion of Indian princes. Used mainly to hunt
jackal and deer, this powerful dog was also capable of bringing
down wild boar. The breeds origins are uncertain, but may
include crosses between the English Greyhound
and native Indian breeds chosen for
their strength and tenacity.

Any color

This dog, once used for hunting rabbit and fox, may have
entered Hungary with the Magyars over 1,000 years ago.
Not as fast as a Greyhound (see p.126) but tougher and
tireless, the Hungarian Greyhound (or Magyar
Large, rose
Agar) needs a regular run. It makes a
ears raised
when alert
faithful and protective companion.

Black
and tan

Brindle
markings

Long, thin,
tapering tail
Long, narrow,
pointed nose
on at skull

Broad, straight,
rm back

White

Elongated muzzle
and wedgeshaped head

Tucked-up
belly
Long tail
reaches hock

Arched feet and


strong claws for
good grip at speed

Tan markings
on lower legs

Short,
dense,
smooth
coat

Polish Greyhound
HEIGHT 2731in (6880cm)
WEIGHT 143187lb (6585kg)
LIFE SPAN 1215 years

All colors

Long, powerful,
muscular neck

Possibly a mix of the Greyhound (see p.126) and the Borzoi (see p.132)
in origin, the Polish Greyhound is stronger and sturdier than other
sight hounds. It is bred to hunt bustard (a large, cranelike bird)
and wolves, and is a popular track racer. The Polish Greyhound
requires rm training, plenty of exercise, and regular brushing.

Sable

White blaze
on head

White
markings
on chest

Long tail,
strong at base

Black and tan

White tail tip

130

SIGHT HOUNDS

Saluki
HEIGHT
2328in
(5871cm)

PRIZED HUNTER
WEIGHT
3565lb
(1629kg)

LIFE SPAN
12 years

Variety of colors

This slim-framed, sleek, and intelligent gazelle hunter


makes a loyal and courageous family companion
One of the oldest breeds in existence,
Saluki-type dogs have been used as
hunting dogs for thousands of years.
They are shown on wall carvings from
the Sumerian empire (in what is now
Iraq), dating from 70006000BCE, and
on paintings in ancient Egyptian tombs;
their mummied bodies have been found
buried with pharaohs. Similar dogs were
known in China in the Tang dynasty
(618907CE), and were rst brought to
Europe by Crusaders in the 12th century.
The Saluki is esteemed in the Middle
East for its swiftness; over long distances,
it can be faster than a Greyhound (see p.126).

Although Muslims traditionally viewed


dogs as unclean, they made an exception for
the Saluki, allowing it to live in the family
tent. Salukis were never sold, but they might
be presented to people as a mark of honor.
The Saluki is gentle but may seem aloof
to strangers, although it is more loving to
its owners. It is highly intelligent, so needs
plenty of mental and physical challenges if
it is not to become bored and willful. Its
strong chasing instinct needs to be kept
under control. There are two coat types:
smooth and feathered.

Early drawings of the Saluki (as in the illustration


from the early 1840s below) show dogs with
well developed feathering on legs and tail.
However, they are depicted without the
long feathering on the ears that is typical
of the feathered-coat variety today. The Bedouin
traditionally prize these dogs for their hunting
prowess rather than their appearance. Salukis
are used to hunt fast-moving prey such as
gazelles (giving rise to the alternative name
gazelle-hound), as well as fox and rabbit.

Pendant ears
with long,
silky hair
Long, narrow head
Long, slender,
supple neck

Cream

Smooth, soft,
silky coat

Black
and tan

Deep,
narrow chest

Golden

Slight feathering on
back of front legs

FEATHERED
COAT

131

C ATALOG OF BREEDS | SIGHT HOUNDS

Borzoi
HEIGHT
2729in
(6874cm)

WEIGHT
60106lb
(2748kg)

LIFE SPAN
1113 years

A CULTURAL ICON
The powerful, glamorous Borzoi has won itself
a place in literature and lm. Leo Tolstoys epic
novel War and Peace contains a powerful
description of a Borzoi pack hunting a wolf.
In F. Scott Fitzgeralds The Beautiful and Damned,
the main characters girlfriend compares him to a
Russian wolfhound; he is attered because they
are usually
photographed with
princesses and dukes.
The Borzoi was a
favorite subject in Art
Deco art and has
featured in many
moviesin addition
to being an elegant
companion for
movie stars.
ALEXANDRA, WIFE
OF EDWARD VII, WITH
HER PET BORZOI

Variety of colors

This noble Russian hound combines speed, elegance, and


a desire to chase with a certain nonchalance
Descended from Central Asian sight
hounds, this tall, elegant dog was brought
westwards by traders. Once known as the
Russian Wolfhound, the Borzoi was bred to
hunt wolves for Russian tsars and nobility;
the original dogs were crossed with
Greyhounds (see p.126) for speed, and
with native Russian dogs for strength and
resistance to cold. The nobles would take as
many as 100 dogs on a hunt, releasing them
in groups of three to bring down a wolf; one
dog would attack the wolfs hind quarters,
while the other two caught its neck.
After the Russian Revolution in 1917,
many of these aristocratic dogs were
killed, but during the 1940s a soldier named

Constantin Esmont persuaded the Soviet


government to preserve the Borzoi for use
by hunters in the fur trade. In Russia the
Borzoi is still valued mainly for its hunting
abilities, but outside the country it has
been bred for many years as a show dog
and companion dog.
Today the Borzoi is happy in a regular
home environment but needs plenty of long
walks and runs as well as training to control
its strong chasing instinct. It also requires a
routine of brushing and bathing to keep its
long, wavy coat in top condition.

Short, smooth
coat on head

Black mask

Narrow, rened head


with imperceptible stop

Silky, long coat

Profuse frill
on neck

White with
red markings

Short hair on
front of legs
Long-haired,
low-set tail

132

Hare-shaped
feet with
well padded toes

SIGHT HOUNDS

Deerhound
HEIGHT 2830in (7176cm)
WEIGHT 82101lb (3746kg)
LIFE SPAN 1011 years

Small, rose ears

Red-fawn or sandy red


Black brindle

Once the preserve of Scottish stag-hunting nobility, this


shaggier version of the Irish Wolfhound (see p.134) is now as
much at home in a cozy living room as it is by a baronial
log re. It is lazy and companionable indoors,
as long as it has a strenuous walk every
Coat softer
day and plenty of outdoor space.
on head

Blue-gray

Pointed
muzzle
Long,
strong
neck

and chest
Silky haired, lightercolored mustache
and beard
Harsh, thick,
wiry, dark coat

Long tail, thick at


base, carried low

White toes

Very shallow stop

Spanish Greyhound
HEIGHT 2328in (5872cm)
WEIGHT 4466lb (2030kg)
LIFE SPAN 12 years

Any color

Thought to be a descendant of dogs that came into the


Iberian Peninsula with the Celts around 500BCE,
the Spanish Greyhound is a fast-footed hunter.
Once kept only by royalty, the breed
Long, lean head
became widely popular for
coursing and racing. Spanish
Greyhounds are not hard
to train as house dogs
but have high exercise
requirements. There
Almondare two coat varieties:
shaped eyes
smooth-haired and
wire-haired.

Long, straight back

Sandy

Compact, well
muscled body

Black
Long tail ending
in ne point
SMOOTH-HAIRED

White chest
markings

WIRE-HAIRED

133

C ATALOG OF BREEDS | SIGHT HOUNDS

SIGHT HOUNDS

Irish Wolfhound
HEIGHT
2834in
(7186cm)

WEIGHT
105150lb
(4868kg)

LIFE SPAN
810 years

GELERT
Variety of colors

A loyal, dignied, and docile hound, this gentle giant is the


worlds tallest breed and needs room to relax and run
This breed derives its name from its
traditional use in hunting wolves. Dogs
of this type have been known in Ireland
for thousands of years; Irish chieftains and
kings used them as dogs of war, as well
as for hunting wolves and elk. The great
hound, or cu, is mentioned in Irish laws and
literature, and was known to the Romans, too.
For centuries the dogs were reserved for
royalty and the nobility and were given as
presents to important foreigners; so many
were given away that their
export was prohibited in
1652 so that Ireland
would not be overrun
with wolves. However,
once the last wolf was
killed in 1786, the Irish
Wolfhound lost its
traditional purpose and

the dogs became very scarce. In the 1870s


a British Army ofcer, Captain George A.
Graham, started a program to revive it,
using outcrosses to breeds such as the
Scottish Deerhound (see p.133) and the
Great Dane (see p.96). In 1902 an Irish
Wolfhound was presented to the Irish
Guards as a regimental mascot, and the
breed still performs this role today.
Despite its imposing appearancethis
giant, heavy breed can reach well over 6ft
(1.8m) tall when standing on its hind legs
the Irish Wolfhound has a calm, gentle
nature. It is often kept as a companion dog
and needs and enjoys human company.
However, it is best suited to owners who can
afford substantial food bills and who have
sufcient indoor and outdoor space to keep
such a large, heavy dog. The coarse coat
requires regular brushing and combing.

In Welsh legend, Gelert was the favorite


hound of Prince Llewellyn the Great. One day
Llewellyn went hunting, leaving Gelert behind,
and on his return was horried to nd his baby
son missing and Gelert with blood on his jaws.
Believing that Gelert had killed the baby,
Llewellyn ran the dog through with his sword.
Just then the baby cried; Llewellyn found him
lying on a wolf, which Gelert had clearly killed.
Stricken with remorse, Llewellyn buried Gelert
with a memorial stone in honor of his dog.
Today a sculpture of Gelert (below) stands near
his grave in Beddgelert, Wales.

Oval, dark eyes

Dark gray
brindle

PUPPY

Red brindle

Small, rose ears

Coarse coat
Hair especially
wiry under jaw
and over eyes
Strong,
muscular
neck

Deep chest
White markings
on feet and chest

135

C ATALOG OF BREEDS | SIGHT HOUNDS

Afghan Hound
HEIGHT
2529in
(6374cm)

LIFE SPAN
1214 years

WEIGHT
5064lb
(2329kg)

Any color

The supermodel of dogs, this breed makes a glamorous,


aloof, and high-maintenance but affectionate pet

WORLDS FIRST
CLONED DOG
In 2005 Seoul National University in South Korea
amazed the world by revealing Snuppy, the rst
cloned dog. Snuppy was created using DNA
from an adult Afghan Hounds ear cells, inserted
into eggs from female dogs. A total of 123
surrogate mothers were used, and three pups
were born, of which Snuppy was the sole
survivorgenetically identical to
his father. In 2008 Snuppy
became a father himself, with
ten puppies being born to
two cloned mothers.
SNUPPY (RIGHT)
SITS NEXT TO
THE DOG FROM
WHICH HE WAS
CLONED

The origin of the Afghan Hound is


unknown, but its ancestors are thought
to have been brought along trade routes to
Afghanistan. There, people used it to hunt
hare, deer, and wild goat, as well as wolves
and snow leopards. The dogs were suited to
such work since they had agility and stamina,
and were adept at running fast over rough
terrain, turning quickly, and leaping up
mountain slopes. The long, silky coat gave
protection from cold, while the large feet
could grip well and were resistant to injury.
Various types existed in Afghanistan; dogs
from desert areas were lighter in build, with
a ner coat, while those from the mountains
were more heavy-coated.
Long muzzle
and skull

The Afghan Hound was not known outside


Afghanistan until the late 19th century when
British soldiers rst brought it to England. In
the 1930s Marx Brother Zeppo introduced
this breed to the US, and it has been popular
since with celebrities.
Today, the Afghan Hound is a spectacular
show dog and a loving, if occasionally
wayward, family pet. It also excels at lure
coursing (chasing a mechanical lure) and
obedience events. The dog needs plenty of
exercise, including chances to run freely.
The Afghan Hounds long show coat needs
a great deal of regular grooming.

Dark eyes, almost


triangular-looking,
slanting slightly upward

Pendant ears covered


with long, silky hair
Tail is relatively bare,
carried in a ring and
raised when moving

Red

Gold

Long, silky coat


has ne texture
except along short,
close saddle

Feet strong and


covered with
thick, long hair

136

Darker hair
on ear tips

SIGHT HOUNDS

Sloughi
HEIGHT 2428in (6172cm)
WEIGHT 4460lb (2027kg)
LIFE SPAN 12 years

Long established in North Africa,


where it is much prized as a hunting
dog, the Sloughi has only recently
become known in the US and
Europe. This quiet-natured breed is
a pleasant companion and likes
home life. A Sloughi needs early
socializing with other household
pets since its urge to chase small
animals is strong.

Darker face
and ears
Lean, muscular body
with curved topline

Elongated,
wedge-shaped
muzzle

Prominent
breastbone

Neck arched
and elegant

Sandy
Tough, ne,
close-tting coat

Long, thin,
oval feet

Azawakh

Head is narrow
and chiseled

HEIGHT 2429in (6074cm)


WEIGHT 3355lb (1525kg)
LIFE SPAN 1213 years

This long-legged hound comes from the desert areas of the southern
Sahara. The Azawakh is used by nomadic tribes for hunting, guarding,
and as a companion dog. It has exceptionally ne skin. With careful
handling and a daily run,
the Azawakh settles well
as a house pet.

Muscles and bones


visible beneath ne skin

Neck long, ne,


muscular, and
slightly arched

Wide-set,
pendant ears

Long muzzle
Typical white bib

Fawn
Short coat

Characteristic
white stockings

Long, tapering
tail has a white
brush tip

137

Pack hunting
Foxhunting with pack hounds was
once a familiar sight in rural UK.
The modern alternative is drag hunting
where hounds follow an articial scent.

SCENT HOUNDS

SCENT
HOUNDS
A keen sense of smell is an essential part of being a dog. The sharpest noses belong to the scent
hounds, which track prey more by following scent than by using their eyes, as the sight hounds
do (see pp.12425). These dogs, which often hunt in packs, have a natural ability to pick up a trail,
even if it is days old, and will follow it single-mindedly.

It is not known exactly when


certain dogs were rst recognized
for their exceptional ability to hunt
by scent. The origins of the modern
scent hound possibly date back to
the mastiff-type dogs of the ancient
world, brought into Europe by traders
from the region that is now Syria. By
the Middle Ages hunting with packs
of scent hounds was a widespread and
popular sport, the quarry including
fox, hare, deer, and wild boar. Pack
hunting arrived in North America in
the 17th century with English settlers,
who brought their own foxhounds
with them.
Scent hounds come in all sizes, but
typically have substantial muzzles
packed with odor-detecting sensors,
loose, moist lips that also aid scent

detection, and long, pendant ears.


Bred for staying power rather than
speed, they are strong-bodied,
especially in the forequarters. The
breeds of scent hound known today
were selectively developed not only
according to the size of prey that
they followed but also the countryside
that the hunts covered. The English
Foxhound (see p.158), for example,
is comparatively eet and lightly
built for accompanying a mounted
hunt over mostly open terrain. Similar
in general appearance but much
smaller, the Beagle (see p.152) hunted
hare, sometimes in thick undergrowth,
with followers on foot. Some shortlegged dogs were bred to follow or dig
out quarry below ground. The best
known of these small scent hounds is

the Dachshund (see p.170), an agile


little dog, adept at getting in and
out of tight spots. The Otterhound
(see p.142), which hunted its quarry
in rivers and streams, sometimes
swimming for much of the time,
has a water-repellent coat and more
extensive webbing between its toes
than most dogs.
With a ban on hunting with
hounds in the UK, the future of
British breeds such as the English
Foxhound or Harrier (see p.154)
is uncertain. Although usually
gregarious and good with other
dogs, pack hounds rarely make
satisfactory house pets. They need
space, are often vocal, and their
eagerness to follow any scent trail
can make them difcult to train.

139

C ATALOG OF BREEDS | SCENT HOUNDS

Bruno Jura Hound


HEIGHT 1822in (4557cm)
WEIGHT 3544lb (1620kg)
LIFE SPAN 1011 years

Strong
muzzle
Light
brown eyes

One of two similar breeds of hound developed in the Swiss Jura mountain
region, this is one of four laufhunds (see p.173) that probably descended from
older, heavier French breeds. Used mainly for rabbit hunting, it has a powerful
nose and great strength and agility when working on steep terrain. Restless
and ever on the go, this breed does not enjoy indoor connement.
Domed head
smaller than in
St. Hubert Jura
Hound (below)

Short,
thick coat

Tapering tail curves


slightly upward

Long, large
ears set well
back and low

Tan with
black blanket

Rounded feet
with strong
nails and
tough pads

St. Hubert Jura Hound


HEIGHT 1823in (4558cm)
WEIGHT 3344lb (1520kg)
LIFE SPAN 1011 years

Massive,
domed head

Sharing a common history with the Bruno Jura Hound (above) and closely resembling it,
the St. Hubert Jura Hound is distinguished by its larger size and smoother coat. A strong
tracker, the St. Hubert Jura Hound bays loudly when following a scent. It has great
stamina for hunting rabbits, foxes, or deer.

Large,
pendant ears

Back straight, broad,


and muscular
Loose upper
lip covers
lower lip

Tan with
black blanket

Smooth, short coat

Dark hazel
to brown
eyes

140

Forelegs
straight
and strong

SCENT HOUNDS

Bloodhound
HEIGHT
2327in
(5869cm)

WEIGHT
79110lb
(3650kg)

THE CANINE
SUPER-SLEUTH
LIFE SPAN
1012 years

Black and tan


Liver and tan

Gentle and sociable despite its size, this dog has a deep
bellowing voice and a strong desire to hunt
The ultimate scent hound, the Bloodhound
is sometimes called a nose with a dog
attached. Dogs of this type have appeared in
written records since the 14th century,
although they are thought to be even older.
The dogs were used to hunt deer and wild
boar and to follow people. In Scotland
sleuthhounds were used to track the
raiders and cattle thieves who operated
along the English-Scottish border. In the
17th century the eminent scientist Sir Robert
Boyle told of a Bloodhound that tracked
a man over seven miles and through two
busy towns, tracing the man to the very
room where he was concealed.

During the 19th century French breeders


imported some Bloodhounds to resurrect
the old Chien de St. Hubert breed. Later
in the 19th century people began to breed
pure Bloodhounds in the US; Americans
have used the dogs for tracking criminals
and missing people, and evidence from
a Bloodhound can be admissible in a
court of law.
The tracking instinct is so strong that it
can make obedience training difcult, since
the dog will be easily distracted by scents
around it. Nevertheless, this good-natured
dog is an excellent family companion for
those with room to spare.

Historically used in Britain for stag hunting,


Bloodhounds are superb tracking dogs, as
depicted in the 17th century engraving below.
As deer numbers fell, the Bloodhound became
somewhat redundant, though a few were
kept on large estates to track down poachers.
Early settlers in the US used Bloodhounds
to track people, too. As recently as 1977, two
14-month-old BloodhoundsSandy and
Little Redtracked down prison escapee
James Earl Ray, the man who shot Civil
Rights leader Martin Luther King.

Heavy, loose upper lip


Deep-set eyes give
solemn expression
Shaded red

Very long,
pendant ears
Pronounced
dewlap

Lower ears
curl inward
Smooth, short,
weatherproof coat
Long, thick,
tapering tail

141

C ATALOG OF BREEDS | SCENT HOUNDS

Otterhound
HEIGHT
2427in
(6169cm)

WEIGHT
66115lb
(3052kg)

LIFE SPAN
1012 years

Any hound color

Easy-going and affectionate, this boisterous dog has retained


a strong hunting instinct and needs plenty of exercise
As its name suggests, this shaggy-coated
hound was once used for hunting otters.
Though its exact origins are uncertain,
dogs of a similar type, working in packs,
were known in England from about the
18th century, and there are records of
otter-hunting with pack hounds as far back
as the 12th century. When otters became
a protected species, and otter hunting was
banned in the UK in 1978, the number of
Otterhounds declined sharply. The breed
is now considered rare, with fewer than 60
puppies being registered by the Kennel Club
each year. Small numbers of Otterhounds
are found in other countries, including the
US, Canada, and New Zealand.
The Otterhound is a strong, energetic
dog that, given sufcient exercise, readily
adapts to life in the home. It is intelligent

and good-natured but, as is the case with


many former pack hounds, can be difcult
to train. Being large and boisterous, the
breed is not recommended for small homes
or families with elderly members or young
children, since there is a risk of them being
knocked over. The Otterhound is best suited
to owners who enjoy outdoor activities and
have a large yard or access to open spaces
where the dog can run safely. Bred for
hunting in water, this hound loves swimming
and will splash around happily in streams
for hours if given the opportunity.
The Otterhounds dense, coarse coat
is slightly oily, and therefore water-repellent.
Regular grooming is usually enough to
keep the long topcoat free from tangles;
the longer facial hair may need
washing occasionally.

AN ENDANGERED BREED
The Otterhound is the most vulnerable dog breed
in the UK; in 2011 only 38 new dogs were
registered. Their decline in popularity can be
linked to a number of events. In the late 1920s
the breeds reputation suffered with the
publication of Tarka the Otter, which features
a hunting Otterhound named Deadlock as the
enemy of the otter hero, Tarka. Then in 1978
otter hunting was made illegal, although this did
not have a great effect, since packs were simply
switched to hunting mink. Finally, all hunting
with packs of dogs was banned in the early 2000s.

142

High-set tail
reaches hock

Hair slightly longer


on underside of tail

SCENT HOUNDS

Head well covered


with hair

Black and tan

Rough,
waterproof coat

Long, pendant
ears fold in on
leading edge

Deep chest

Large, round feet


with well-developed
webbing between toes

143

C ATALOG OF BREEDS | SCENT HOUNDS

Grand Griffon Venden


HEIGHT
2427in
(6068cm)

WEIGHT
6677lb
(3035kg)

LIFE SPAN
1213 years

THE CLERKS DOG


The name griffon comes from the French
word grefer, meaning clerk. The ancestors
of the Grand Griffon Venden (and of other
griffon breeds) were white, wire-haired hunting
dogs. One of the rst people to breed this type
of dog, in the 15th century, was a French clerk.
For this reason, the early name for the dog
was grefer dog, which became shortened
to griffon. Later, the word griffon became
more widely used to denote various types of
rough-haired hunting dog.

Fawn
Black and tan
Fawn dogs can have black overlay

Black and white


Tricolor

This well proportioned, passionate hunter is intelligent


and family-friendly but is best-suited to a rural lifestyle
There are four varieties of Griffon Venden,
all originating in the Vende area of western
France. The Grand Griffon Venden, as its
name implies, is the largest; it is also the
longest established. Its ancestry includes
the 15th-century grefer dog, the Griffon
Fauve de Bretagne (see p.149), and the now
extinct Griffon de Bresse, as well as roughcoated hunting dogs from Italy.
The breed was historically used for
hunting large game such as deer and wild
boar, and is still used for these purposes
today. It works as a pack hound or on a
leash. It is willing to follow trails even in
thick undergrowth; the double-layered

coat, with its dense undercoat and wiry


topcoat, gives protection against all types
of vegetation and weather.
Coat colors include mixtures of
black, white, tan, and fawn. There are
several varieties of fawn with blacktipped hairs, known traditionally as
hare color, wolf color, badger color,
or boar color.
This dog has a beautiful musical voice
and an appealing personality. It also has
a strong tracking instinct and is rather
independent-minded, so requires careful
training and rm handling. In addition, the
dog needs plenty of space and daily exercise.
Eyebrows
pronounced but
not covering eyes

White and
orange

Narrow,
inward-turning
ears covered
in ne hair

Long,
feathered tail

Rough,
bushy coat

144

Front of
muzzle has
square
appearance

SCENT HOUNDS

Eyes dark
with lively,
penetrating gaze

Griffon Nivernais
HEIGHT 2124in (5362cm)
WEIGHT 5155lb (2325kg)
LIFE SPAN 1215 years

One of the oldest French sporting dogs, this breed has


bloodlines that include the English Foxhound (see p.158) and
the Otterhound (see p.142). Used for tracking wild boar, the
Griffon Nivernais has great endurance. It may work
individually but usually hunts in
a pack. The rough, tousled coat
provides protection against
thick vegetation.
High-set tail

Dense, rough,
shaggy coat

Sandy
with black
overlay

Large,
black
nose

Bushy eyebrows
noticeable but not
covering eyes

Briquet Griffon Venden


HEIGHT 1922in (4855cm)
WEIGHT 3553lb (1624kg)
LIFE SPAN 12 years

Fawn with black overlay


Black and tan
White and black

Briquet means medium sizedan apt description for this


well proportioned hound. A handsome and determined chaser
of wild boar and roe deer, it is a scaled-down version of the
Grand Griffon Venden (opposite), from which it was bred.
This hound hunts in a pack
but can adapt to urban
life if introduced to
Brown nose
it early on.

Black, tan,
and white

White and
orange

Long, pendant ears


set below eye level
Long,
bushy coat

145

C ATALOG OF BREEDS | SCENT HOUNDS

Basset Hound
HEIGHT
1315in
(3338cm)

WEIGHT
4060lb
(1827kg)

LIFE SPAN
1013 years

Variety of colors
Any recognized hound color.

This low-slung, oppy-eared dog is a superb tracker but,


despite its strong hunting instinct, makes an affectionate pet
The Basset breeds of dog originated
in France; the name is derived from the
French word bas, meaning low, and
refers to their low-slung, short-legged shape.
Dogs of this type had existed in France for
centuries, but the rst actual mention of
basset dogs appeared in a French hunting
text written in 1585. These dogs were
ideal for men who hunted on foot because
they followed trails at a slow pace. After the
French Revolution in 1789, Basset breeds
became more popular as a common
mans dog and were typically used to
hunt rabbit and hare.
The Basset Hound rst attracted great
attention at a dog show in Paris in 1863.
English people began to import the dogs

in the 1870s, and the rst breed standard for


the Basset Hound was established in the UK
at the end of the 19th century.
Today some Basset Hounds are still
used for hunting and tracking, either in
packs or alone. The breed is well suited
for small game such as fox, hare, opossum,
and pheasant, and for working in heavy
cover. This consummate sniffer dog has
a very keen sense of smell and a strong
tracking instinct; once it has picked up
a scent it may follow the trail tenaciously,
immune to all distraction.
Most Basset Hounds are kept as family
pets. The breed is intelligent, calm, loyal,
and affectionate, but can be stubborn, so
needs kind and rm training.

THE HUSH PUPPIES DOG


The Basset Hound is famous as the symbol of the
Hush Puppies brand of shoe. The shoes and
the name both originate from 1950s America.
Barking dogs at the time was slang for tired
feet, and as real-life barking dogs were sometimes
quietened with corn fritters called hush puppies,
one of the sales managers saw the potential of
the name for the comfortable range of shoes. The
Basset Hound with
its relaxed look was
quickly adopted for
the logo. In the 1980s
a dog named Jason
featured in several
witty print and TV
advertisements,
making the brand
hugely popular
worldwide.
A 1965 MAGAZINE
ADVERTISEMENT
FOR HUSH PUPPIES

Eyes soft, sad-looking,


and slightly sunken
Low-set,
pendant ears

PUPPY

Short coat

Broad and
level back

Dark nose with


large, wideopen nostrils

Long, deep body


heaviest-boned of all
dogs for its height

Tricolor

Folds of skin
on legs
Body low but allows
free movement over
all types of terrain

146

The Bloodhound in all but size!


The short legs of the Basset Hound result from
a genetic condition that also causes limb
distortion, typically producing a cabriolelike
shape. Slower than its larger cousins, but
nonetheless effective at following a scent, it
can be easily followed by hunters on foot.

C ATALOG OF BREEDS | SCENT HOUNDS

Grand Basset Griffon Venden


HEIGHT 1517in (3844cm)
WEIGHT 4044lb (1820kg)
LIFE SPAN 12 years

White and orange

This basset-type Griffon Venden hound was originally


developed in France for hunting rabbit. Today it is used for
tracking all types of game, from rabbit to wild
boar. Brave and tenacious when on the
trail, the short-legged Grand Basset
Griffon Venden is adept at working
in difcult countryside such as
dense scrub.

White with
black grizzle and
orange markings

Long, pendant ears

Prominent
nose with
wide nostrils

Flat, hard hair


with thick
undercoat

Petit Basset Griffon Venden


HEIGHT 1315in (3338cm)
WEIGHT 2442lb (1119kg)
LIFE SPAN 1214 years

Smallest of the Griffon Venden breeds of France, the Petit


Basset Griffon Venden is an alert, active, and vigorous hound,
capable of a long days hunting. Short legs, a body twice the dogs
height, and a thick, rough coat make this breed ideal for work in
dense, brambly undergrowth. Full of restless energy, the
Petit Basset Griffon Venden is a family dog for
people who enjoy spending time outdoors.

White, black
and orange

148

Pendant ears
turned inward
Long eyebrows,
beard, and
mustache

Rough, thick,
coarse coat

SCENT HOUNDS

Basset Fauve de
Bretagne

Basset Artesien
Normand
HEIGHT 1214in (3036cm)
WEIGHT 3344lb (1520kg)
LIFE SPAN 1315 years

HEIGHT 1315in (3238cm)


WEIGHT 3540lb (1618kg)
LIFE SPAN 1214 years

Tan and white

This low-slung, long-bodied dog from the Artois and Normandy


regions of France is renowned for searching, tracking, ushing
out, and pursuing hare, rabbit, and deereither individually
or in small packs. An elegant hound, it has a very deep
bark that is perhaps surprising for its size. Like many
Muzzle same
hounds, it requires experienced training.
length as skull
Long, low-set ears

Large,
black nose

High-set,
tapering tail

This versatile and nimble French hound has the same qualities as
the breed from which it is derived: the Griffon Fauve de Bretagne
(below). It is courageous and has a well developed sense of smell,
which makes it ideal for tracking and search and rescue. Although
wiry, a weekly brush and comb is all that its coat requires.

Slightly tapering
muzzle with
brown nose

Close, short,
smooth coat

Ears covered
in shorter, darker
hair than on body
Tail medium length
and set high

Tricolor

Goldwheaten

Istrian Wire-haired
Hound

Griffon Fauve de
Bretagne

HEIGHT 1823in (4658cm)


WEIGHT 3553lb (1624kg)
LIFE SPAN 12 years

HEIGHT 1922in (4756cm)


WEIGHT 4049lb (1822kg)
LIFE SPAN 1213 years

With its boundless tenacity and passion for hunting, the Istrian
Wire-haired Hound is similar to the smooth-coated variety (see
p.150). Due to its stubborn nature it can be difcult to train,
so is not an ideal pet. It is known as the Istarski Otrodlaki
Gonic in its homeland on the Istrian
peninsula of Croatia.
Orange

One of the oldest French hounds, with ancestors dating


back to the 1500s, the Griffon Fauve de Bretagne was bred in
Brittany to guard against wolves. Today it is a versatile hunter
and lively house dog. Its short-legged cousin is the Basset
Fauve de Bretagne (above).
Tail carried in
a sickle shape

Low-set ears
curl in on front edge

Snow-white

speckling
on ears

Tail has orange


hairs at base
Dark brown
eyes

Black
nose

Oval-shaped,
dark eyes

Redwheaten

Wiry, very
rough coat

Compact
feet

Harsh topcoat
is dull and bristly

Catlike,
narrow
feet

149

C ATALOG OF BREEDS | SCENT HOUNDS

Styrian Coarse-haired
Mountain Hound

Istrian Smoothcoated Hound


HEIGHT 1722in (4456cm)
WEIGHT 3144lb (1420kg)
LIFE SPAN 12 years

HEIGHT 1821in (4553cm)


WEIGHT 3340lb (1518kg)
LIFE SPAN 12 years

Bred for hunting rabbit and fox in the vast open terrain of
Croatia, the handsome and well-built Istarski Kratkodlaki Gonic,
as it is known in its native land, displays a stunning snow-white
coat. It is kept across the Istrian peninsula as a working dog but
also makes a contented house dog in a rural household.
Long, narrow,
pear-shaped head

Broad, thin,
drop ears

Snow-white

This medium-sized dog is agile on difcult, steep terrain, having


developed its hunting skills in the mountains of Austria and
Slovenia. It can make a calm and good-natured pet. It is also
known as the Peintingen Hound after its 18th-century developer,
who started by crossing a Hanoverian Scent Hound (see p.175)
with an Istrian Wire-haired
Hound (see p.149).
Black
nose
Fawn

Large,
dark eyes

Orange
markings on
broad, level back

Red

Broad back

Orange markings
on face extend
to include ear

Short,
smooth
coat

Expressive,
brown eyes

Moderate
stop

Darkercolored,
drop ears
covered with
ne hair

Rough,
coarse
coat
Black
nose

Spanish Hound

Austrian Black and


Tan Hound

HEIGHT 1922in (4857cm)


WEIGHT 4455lb (2025kg)
LIFE SPAN 1113 years

HEIGHT 1922in (4856cm)


WEIGHT 3351lb (1523kg)
LIFE SPAN 1214 years

Sometimes known as the Brandlbracke, the Austrian Black


and Tan Hound has descended from the Celtic Hound. Popular
locally, it was bred to seek out rabbits and track down wounded
animals with its highly tuned senses of smell and direction.
It works eagerly and has a calm temperament.
Long, tapering tail
hangs down at rest

The ancestors of the Spanish Hound date back to the


Middle Ages. Also known as the Sabueso Espaol, this dog is
a specialized, lone rabbit hunter that will track its prey all
day, following the commands of an experienced owner. There
is considerable variation in the height of this breed: males
being much larger than females.
Compact, sturdy,
rectangular body,
longer than leg length

Body length longer


than leg length

Drop ears

Tan markings
above eyes

Long,
pendant
ears

Long, straight
muzzle

Curved
tail, held
sabrelike

Broad
chest

Short
coat

Short
coat
Black
and tan

150

Tan markings
on lower legs

White and orange

Segugio Italiano
HEIGHT
1923in
(4859cm)

WEIGHT
4062lb
(1828kg)

LIFE SPAN
1014 years

RENAISSANCE HOUND
The Segugio Italianos distinct appearance
body of a sight hound, head of a scent hound
reects its combined skills of speed, endurance,
and tracking. Dogs with a similar look are seen
in European paintings (below, a scene from a
Flemish illuminated manuscript c.151520) and
sculptures, from the 16th and 17th centuries,
when wild boar hunts were extravagant affairs
involving noblemen on horseback, liveried
musicians, and hundreds of dogs. By the end
of the Renaissance period the popularity of this
grand style of hunting declined and these dogs
were not needed in such large numbers.

Wheaten
Black and tan

This intelligent and sweet-natured hound makes a good


companion for a family that enjoys the outdoors
Italian hounds of this type are thought
to date from pre-Roman times and to
be descended from Egyptian hounds.
Originally bred as a boar hunter, the bread
is now more often used by farmers to track
rabbit, and is appreciated for its versatility.
A fast sprinter, it also has the stamina for
running long distances, and is tenacious
in following a scent. In addition, it has
an unusual hunting technique in which
it follows rabbits (the breed name
comes from the Italian word seguire,
meaning to follow) and drives them
toward the hunter, thus enabling a
hunter to work alone.
Elongated head
with small stop

The Segugio Italiano is usually calm


and quiet, but when at work emits a
distinctive, excited, high-pitched bark.
Primarily kept as a working dog, the
breed is good with children and other
dogs, provided it is well-trained. It needs
access to open spaces and plenty of daily
exercise in order to work off its physical
and mental energy. Although the Segugio
Italiano is usually cautious in temperament,
even a well-trained dog is likely to take
off if it spots a rabbit. There are two coat
varieties: wire-haired and short-haired.

Large, dark,
oval eyes

Black nose
Low-set,
pendant ears
Back arches
toward croup

Red

Smooth coat

White tip to tail

SHORTHAIRED
Oval feet

151

C ATALOG OF BREEDS | SCENT HOUNDS

Beagle
HEIGHT
1316in
(3340cm)

WEIGHT
2024lb
(911kg)

LIFE SPAN
13 years

Variety of colors

One of the most popular scent hounds, this active,


happy-go-lucky dog has a strong chasing instinct
A sturdy, compact dog with a cheerful
disposition, the Beagle looks similar to an
English Foxhound (see p.158) in miniature.
The Beagles origins are unclear, but it
appears to have a long history, possibly
being developed from other English scent
hounds such as the Harrier (see p.154). In
England, from the 16th century onward,
packs of small Beagle-type hounds were
kept to hunt hare and rabbit, but it was
not until the 1870s that a standard for the
modern Beagle was recognized. Since then
the breed has remained remarkably popular,
at rst for hunting and now as a companion
dog. This versatile hound has also been
used by law enforcement agencies to
sniff out drugs, explosives, and other
illegal items.
The Beagles friendly and tolerant nature
makes it an excellent pet, provided it has
plenty of company and exerciseit does
not easily tolerate long periods of solitude,
which may lead to behavioral problems.
A typical scent hound, this dog is highly
active and has a strong instinct for following
a trail. Left alone in an inadequately fenced
yard, or allowed to run off the lead, a Beagle
can disappear swiftly and stay away for

hours. The breed has a loud bark and can


be noisy, which may irritate neighbors if
the barking becomes excessive. Fortunately,
Beagles are relatively easy to train, and do
best with an owner who combines fondness
with rmness and clear leadership. This
breed is good with children old enough to
understand how to handle a dog, but cannot
be considered safe with small family pets.
In the US two sizes are recognized, based
on the height of the dog at the shoulders:
those under 13in (33cm) and those between
13in and 15in (33cm and 38cm).

SNOOPYTHE SILENT HERO


Snoopy the dog is a cartoon Beagle from the longrunning comic strip Peanuts, created by Charles M.
Schulz. The Beagle is usually drawn sitting on top of his
doghouse. Snoopy is shown as having an ironic view
of the world and a rich fantasy life, featuring himself in
glamorous roles, including World War I ying Ace. In
1969 Schulz depicted Snoopy as an astronaut ying
to the Moonand the real astronauts of NASAs Apollo
10 lunar mission went on to name their lunar module
after this famous Beagle.

SNOOPY FROM PEANUTS

152

PUPPY

Straight,
level topline

SCENT HOUNDS

Well-dened
stop
Typical tan
markings on face

Black saddle

Tricolor

Black nose

Pendant ears
with rounded tips

White tip
to tail (stern)
White blaze
on head

153

C ATALOG OF BREEDS | SCENT HOUNDS

Harrier

Beagle Harrier
HEIGHT 1820in (4650cm)
WEIGHT 4246lb (1921kg)
LIFE SPAN 1213 years

HEIGHT 1922in (4855cm)


WEIGHT 4260lb (1927kg)
LIFE SPAN 1012 years

Larger than a Beagle (see p.152) but smaller than a Harrier (right),
this attractive little hound is thought to have both these breeds in its
ancestry. Beagle Harriers are not often seen outside France, where
they have been used for hunting small game since the late 1800s.
This dog has a pleasant temperament and makes a good family pet.

Once popular for pack hunting, this handsome, classically


proportioned English hound was probably developed as a smaller
version of the English Foxhound (see p.158). Originally used to
hunt hare with foot followers, Harriers later hunted fox with
mounted followers. Today the dog makes a great outdoor
companion and agility competitor.
Long muzzle

Square,
compact body

Black
blanket

Long tail carried upright


and slightly curved
White with
black and tan
markings

Eyes have
eager and
intelligent
expression

Deep,
broad
chest

V-shaped,
pendant ears

Tricolor
Short, dense,
hard coat

Feet have
thick pads

Rounded,
catlike feet

Porcelaine

Anglo-Franais de
Petite Vnerie
HEIGHT 1922in (4856cm)
WEIGHT 3544lb (1620kg)
LIFE SPAN 1213 years

HEIGHT 2123in (5358cm)


WEIGHT 5562lb (2528kg)
LIFE SPAN 1213 years

Tan and white

Also known as the Petit Anglo-Franais, this hound was


developed in France and is the result of crossbreeding between
English and French scent hounds a few hundred years ago. The
breed is now rare and mostly seen in Continental Europe, where
it is still used for small game hunting (to
which its name, Petite Vnerie, alludes).

Possibly the oldest of the French pack hounds, with origins in the
Franche-Comte on the French-Swiss border, this breed is named for
the distinctive glazelike sheen of its beautiful white coat. It is used
primarily for hunting deer and wild boar. If kept as a pet, this
hound needs plenty of exercise and tactful training.

Very short,
ne coat

Low-set, thin,
pendant ears with
orange ticking

Tricolor
Low-set,
pendant ears
High-set,
thin tail

Large,
brown eyes

Short, dense,
glossy coat

154

Long, sloping,
muscular
shoulders

Black spots
on skin

White

Long,
lean, nely
chiseled
head

SCENT HOUNDS

Hamiltonstvare

Schillerstvare
HEIGHT 1924in (4961cm)
WEIGHT 3355lb (1525kg)
LIFE SPAN 1014 years

HEIGHT 1824in (4660cm)


WEIGHT 5160lb (2327kg)
LIFE SPAN 1013 years

A rare Swedish breed, the Schillerstvare is much prized for its


hunting speed and stamina, especially over snow. This dogs thick
coat insulates it well from its native climate. It tracks alone, rather
than in a pack, and emits a deep-throated bay to pinpoint the
position of its preyhare or fox. The breed is named after
its breeder, farmer Per Schiller.
Short, glossy coat with
thick undercoat

Strong,
long neck

Developed by Count Adolf Patrick Hamilton, a founder of the


Swedish Kennel Club, this handsome, easy-going hound loves to
roam elds and ush out small game. The Hamiltonstvare is a
mix of English Foxhound (see p.158) stock (it has also been called
the Swedish Foxhound) and Holstein Hound, Hanovarian
Haidbrake, and Courlander Hound.
Black and
brown with
white markings

Dense, strong,
close-lying coat

High-set,
drop ears
narrow toward
the tip

White blaze
on face

Tan with
black
mantle

Well cut mantle


saddles back, neck,
sides of trunk, and
top of tail

Short, dense,
soft undercoat
White socks on
lower legs and feet

Halden Hound

Smlandsstvare
HEIGHT 1721in (4254cm)
WEIGHT 3344lb (1520kg)
LIFE SPAN 12 years

HEIGHT 2026in (5065cm)


WEIGHT 5164lb (2329kg)
LIFE SPAN 1012 years

This Swedish Hound, also known as the Smland Hound, is


thought to date back to the 16th century and takes it name from
the dense forest of Smland in southern Sweden where it was
used to hunt fox and hare. It has a distinctive black and tan
coat similar to that of a Rottweiler (see p.83).

The largest of the four stovare breeds, this hound loves a speedy
chase over snowy open spaces. Like other Norwegian dogs bred
as hunting companions, the Halden Hound is not widely known
outside its native land. It was developed in Halden in the southeast,
by crossing an English Foxhound (see p.158) with a local beagle.

Black and tan


Naturally
short tail

Square, well
muscled body

Thick tail
carried low

White with
black patches

Head shorter and


more wedge-shaped
than most hounds

Thick,
shiny coat

High-set, mediumlength ears with


rounded tips

Tan shading
on head

Drop ears lie


close to head

Broad,
deep chest

Small, white
markings
on toes

155

C ATALOG OF BREEDS | SCENT HOUNDS

Norwegian Hound
HEIGHT 1922in (4755cm)
WEIGH 3551lb (1623kg)
LIFE SPAN 1114 years

Gently
sloping stop

Tricolor

Large, dark,
expressive eyes

Trusting, friendly, and easy to handle when


not hunting, the Norwegian Hound, or
Dunker, is designed to track rabbits in
snow in temperatures as low as -59F
(-15C). Originally named after
Captain Wilhelm Dunker, this
hound was bred from other
Norwegian and Russian
hounds in the early 1800s.

Drop ears with


rounded tips
Blue marbled

Black nose

White chest
and shoulders

Tapering
tail reaches
below hock
Straight, hard,
dense coat with
pale fawn markings
White socks

Hygen Hound

Finnish Hound
HEIGHT 2024in (5261cm)
WEIGHT 4655lb (2125kg)
LIFE SPAN 12 years

HEIGHT 1923in (4758cm)


WEIGHT 4455lb (2025kg)
LIFE SPAN 12 years

By far Finlands most popular hunting dog, this hound is


bred to drive rabbits and fox in the countrys snowy forests.
It hunts with unfailing eagerness, but at home it is an
easygoing and manageable pet. Although generally
White
blaze on
placid, the Finnish Hound can sometimes be
head
shy around strangers.
Dark brown
Close-lying,
straight,
dense coat

A more lightweight dog than the Norwegian Hound (above), this


breed from Ringerike and Romerike in eastern Norway is purpose
built for the snowy Arctic expanses and has the stamina
to bound through them tirelessly. Compact like the
White blaze
on head
Smlandsstvare (see p.155), this is a quick-thinking
hunter that loves long walks.
Thin, short,

eyes
Tail with black shading
and white tip

Back edge of ears


turn outward

Head and
snout shorter
and wider than
Norwegian Hound
(above)

Welldeveloped,
black nose

Tricolor

156

Yellow-red
Black and tan
Yellow-red coats have black shading.

drop ears with


rounded tips

Black
nose
Dense, shiny,
harsh coat with
white markings

Redbrown

SCENT HOUNDS

Plott

Prominent
brown or
hazel eyes

HEIGHT 2025in (5164cm)


WEIGHT 4060lb (1827kg)
LIFE SPAN 1012 years

This powerful, brindled hound is used for hunting raccoon,


though it also hunts big cats, bear, coyote, and wild boar.
It is one of only a few breeds with acknowledged American
origin. The original Plott was bred in the
1750s in the Smokey Mountains by the Plott
family, using boar-hunting Hanoverian
hounds brought over
from Germany.

Neck and topline long,


lean, and muscular

Broad, soft ears set


moderately high

Brindle

Powerfully built
body for speed
and stamina
Compact feet
with white toes

American Foxhound

Catahoula Leopard Dog


HEIGHT 2026in (5166cm)
WEIGHT 5190lb (2341kg)
LIFE SPAN 1014 years

HEIGHT 2125in (5364cm)


WEIGHT 4066lb (1830kg)
LIFE SPAN 1213 years

Variety of colors

This striking-looking Louisiana herding dog and hunter of wild


boar and raccoon is a mix of Spanish colonial greyhound, mastiff,
and possibly native Red Wolf. It can work well in swamps,
forests, and more open terrain. Named after a parish in
its home state, the Catahoula Leopard Dog is an alert
watchdog, wary of strangers, but calm and dedicated
to its household.

Any color

These dogs have the most august of patronsthe rst president


of the United States, George Washington. He bred them from
French and English hounds to produce a taller and more athletic,
stand-alone breed. American Foxhounds love
running in packs, hunting singly, or
competing in eld trials.
Long, broad,
drop ears

Short, tight coat

White with
tan patches

Spotted pattern gives


rise to leopard in name

Moderate stop

Eyes may
be different
colors

Hazel eyes
Chest narrower
than English
Foxhound
(see p.158)

White
markings
on chest
Blue merle

Foxlike feet with


well-arched toes
Straight,
square-cut muzzle

157

C ATALOG OF BREEDS | SCENT HOUNDS

English Foxhound
HEIGHT
2325in
(5864cm)

WEIGHT
5575lb
(2534kg)

LIFE SPAN
1011 years

Variety of colors
Any recognized hound color.

MANS BEST FRIEND


The idea of the dog as mans best friend
originated in a court case in Missouri, in 1870.
Farmer Leonidas Hornsby shot a foxhound
named Old Drum for apparently worrying his
sheep. The distraught owner, Charles Burden,
sued Hornsby. Burdens lawyer, George Vest,
made a long speech in praise of dogs; as he
said, The one absolutely unselsh friend that
a man can have in
this selsh world
is his dog. The
listeners were
moved to tears;
Hornsbys
lawyer noted that
the dog, though
dead, had won.

Good-natured, with a sunny approach to life, this breed


needs plenty of activity if it is to adapt to a rural, family life
The ancestry of the English Foxhound is
centuries old. The practice of hunting foxes
with packs of hounds arose in the late 17th
century as deer hunting declined and the
English landscape changed from forests to
elds. People started to breed foxhounds
specically for the new hunting; the animals
needed the nose and stamina to follow a
scent for several hours and had to be fast
enough to keep up with the fox. By the
1800s more than 200 packs of foxhounds
existed in England, and the rst breeding
records were being kept. The breed was
introduced to the US in the 18th century.

MONUMENT IN
MISSOURI,
ERECTED AS
A TRIBUTE TO
OLD DRUM

This hound is highly responsive to training


but can also be stubborn and strong-willed,
especially when on the scent. Historically
kenneled in packs, the English Foxhound
retains much of its pack instinct and
tendency to bay (howl melodiously).
When kept as a house dog, the breed is
very friendly and excellent with children,
as long as it has plenty of exercise. It is
not suited to city life. People who enjoy
running and cycling would make good
partners for this dog. These hounds can
retain their playfulness, liveliness, and
stamina into old age.

Large eyes with


friendly expression

Black nose

Pendant ears
Broad and level back

High-set tail

Short, dense,
weatherproof coat

Round,
catlike feet

158

Tricolor

Very
straight
front legs

American English Coonhound


HEIGHT
2326in
(5866cm)

WEIGHT
4690lb
(2141kg)

LIFE SPAN
1011 years

Tricolor ticked
Red and white
White and black
May also have a blue and white ticked coat.

This American-bred hunter is full of athletic poise and


pace and may make an excellent pet when socialized

BARKING UP THE
WRONG TREE?
Coonhounds have left their mark on the English
language as well as on American history. The
expression barking up the wrong tree is
derived from the Coonhounds practice of
driving its prey up a tree and then barking until
the hunter arrives.
Coonhounds
treeing drive
is so strong,
however, that
they will stay by
one tree, looking
up and barking,
even if the prey
has escaped.

COONHOUNDS
TREEING A RACCOON

This energetic and intelligent dog evolved


from English Foxhounds (opposite) that
settlers brought to the New World in the
17th and 18th centuries. Among those who
imported these hounds, known as Virginia
Hounds, was President George Washington.
From these animals a new dog was bred that
was adapted to the harsher climate and
rougher terrain, hunting foxes by day
and raccoon by night.
The breed rst gained recognition
in 1905 under the name English Fox
and Coonhound. During the 1940s the
various Coonhound types were separated
further, and the American Kennel
Club ofcially recognized
the American English
Coonhound in 1995.

The American English Coonhound is still


used for hunting and is famed for its speed
and stamina. It has an effortless, tireless
trot and a strong drive for pursuing prey
and for treeing. The breed can work as
both a cold nose dog (following an old
animal trail for hours) and a hot nose
dog (following a fresh, active scent at
high speed). It is also used to pursue
cougars and bears.
As a pet, the breed requires rm handling
but in return will be a devoted companion
and good guard dog.

Kind,
expression

Pendant ears
Red patch
Flews cover
lower jaw

Muscular,
reasonably
long neck

Red and
white ticked
Tucked-up
belly

159

C ATALOG OF BREEDS | SCENT HOUNDS

Black and Tan Coonhound


HEIGHT 2327in (5869cm)
WEIGHT 5175lb (2334kg)
LIFE SPAN 1012 years

This big American hunting dog probably descends from the


Bloodhound (see p.141) and a now-extinct old English breed
called the Talbot Hound. Tough and powerful, the Black
and Tan Coonhound is a superb tracker of raccoon,
opossum, and even cougar, baying loudly
when it has chased its quarry up a tree.

Ears low and


set well back

Tail set slightly


below level of back

Well
developed
ews

Rich tan
on muzzle

Black
and tan

Redbone Coonhound
HEIGHT 2127in (5369cm)
WEIGHT 4671lb (2132kg)
LIFE SPAN 1112 years
Pendant ears

Bred in the southern states of


the US, the handsome, glossycoated Redbone Coonhound
has been a popular hunting
dog for over a century. Fast
and agile over almost any type
of terrain, this hound is well
known for its prowess in
tracking raccoons, bears,
and cougars. Trainable
as a companion dog,
this coonhound is
sociable and
affectionate.

Round eyes
set well apart

Slightly higher at
withers than at hip
Solid red

Powerful,
agile body
Short,
smooth coat

Compact,
well-padded,
catlike feet

160

SCENT HOUNDS

Bluetick Coonhound

Long, deep,
broad muzzle

HEIGHT 2127in (5369cm)


WEIGHT 4479lb (2036kg)
LIFE SPAN 1112 years

A breakaway breed, originally


regarded as the English Coonhound,
the Bluetick Coonhound has had
its devoted followers in the US since
the 1940s. Although mainly used
to track raccoon and opossum,
this hound also hunts deer and
bear. Happiest when working, the
Bluetick Coonhound has proved
to be highly successful at obedience
and agility trials.

Clear, sharp eyes


Dark blue
Large
nose

Ticking on
coat produces
characteristic color

Treeing Walker Coonhound


HEIGHT 2027in (5168cm)
WEIGHT 5171lb (2332kg)
LIFE SPAN 1213 years

Large, bright,
brown eyes

White
White coats have tan or black spots.

This fast and efficient racoon


hunter has been recognized as a
distinct breed since the 1940s.
In the US this hound is much
admired for its outstanding
abilities in coonhound
competitions. It is a
breed that appreciates
a friendly home
environment and
loves people.

Black saddle

Long, narrow
muzzle

Tricolor
Muscular
shoulders
and neck

161

C ATALOG OF BREEDS | SCENT HOUNDS

Artois Hound
HEIGHT 2123in (5358cm)
WEIGHT 6266lb (2830kg)
LIFE SPAN 1214 years

Pronounced
stop

The sometimes precocious Artois Hound from France is an


excellent hunting companion that needs lots of exercise. It has
a strong directional sense, a very keen nose, precise pointing,
speed on the move, and drive. Its ancestry goes back to the
Great Artois Hound (and back to the Saint Hubert),
while some English blood also modied
the breed. Although this dog was
Broad head
brought back from near extinction
with moderately
long muzzle
in the early 1990s, it remains rare.

Tan patch

Unique, practically at,


open, pendant ears

Tricolor

Strong,
broad back

Broad chest

Black saddle

Slightly
elongated feet

Arigeois
HEIGHT 2023in (5058cm)
WEIGHT 5560lb (2527kg)
LIFE SPAN 1014 years

A relative newcomerFrance
ofcially recognized it in
1912this dog is also
called the Arige Hound,
after the dry, rocky
region it comes from
on Frances border
with Spain. Its forebears
include the Grand Bleu
de Gascogne (see p.164), the
Grand Gascon-Saintongeois
(opposite), and local mediumsized hounds. The Arigeois
excels as a rabbit hunter
but is also known for
its friendly nature.

Pale tan spot


over eyes
Clearly dened,
jet-black markings

Short coat

Low-set, soft,
pendant ears
Pale
tan on
cheeks

Black mottling

Strong neck
White

Elongated,
rabbitlike feet
Smaller and more nely
boned than Grand Bleu
de Gascogne (see p.164)

162

SCENT HOUNDS

Blue Gascony Griffon

Gascon-Saintongeois

HEIGHT 1922in (4857cm)


WEIGHT 3740lb (1718kg)
LIFE SPAN 1213 years

HEIGHT Petit: 2124in (5462cm); Grand: 2428in (6272cm)


WEIGHT Petit: 5355lb (2425kg); Grand: 6671lb (3032kg)
LIFE SPAN 1214 years

This rare breed, from the Gascony area of France, is also known
as the Virelade Hound after the Baron de Virelade who crossed
the Saintongeois with the Grand Bleu de Gascogne (see p.164),
and the Arigeois (opposite). It is a high-stamina hunter, with
a ne-tuned sense of smell. There are two sizes: Petit and Grand.
White

Occiput (back part of


head) very pronounced

A cross between the Petit Bleu de Gascogne (below) and


wire-coated hounds, this French dog has a coarse, shaggy coat
that allows it to work in harsh conditions. A comparatively
rare breed, it was specically developed to hunt deer, fox,
and rabbit. It has stamina rather than great speed and
a remarkably efcient nose.
Slate-blue

Black patches
cover ears and
surround eyes

Tan markings
on muzzle

Black patch

Long, wiry
eyebrows
Traces of
pale tan
on cheek

Coat has
sparse, black
speckling

Long,
pendant
ears

GRAND

Petit Bleu de
Gascogne

Basset Bleu de
Gascogne
HEIGHT 1215in (3038cm)
WEIGHT 3544lb (1620kg)
LIFE SPAN 1012 years

HEIGHT 2023in (5058cm)


WEIGHT 88106lb (4048kg)
LIFE SPAN 12 years

In 12th-century France blue hounds of this type were used to hunt


wolves, deer, and boar. The modern breed was established in the
20th century. A low-slung dog, it is not fast moving but makes up
for lack of speed with great determination, tracking quarry for
hours once on the scent. An enthusiastic outdoor companion
as well as a ne household pet, this dog takes patience
to train and socialize.
Short, dense coat
with clearly dened,
black saddle

Coarse,
shaggy coat

A mix of black
and white hairs
gives roan
appearance

Bred down in size from the Grand Bleu de Gascogne (see p.164),
the Petit Bleu de Gascogne was developed in France for hunting
rabbit but is also used to pursue larger game. With a ne nose
and a musical voice, this hound works well either as
Dark
an individual or in a pack. If kept
chestnut eyes
as a companion, it needs a rm
hand and a lot of exercise.
Pendant,
low-set
ears

Tan spot above


each oval eye

Well-dened
black patch

Long, rened
muzzle
Slate-blue

Slate-blue

Strong,
oval feet

Short
coat

Tan markings
on feet and legs

163

C ATALOG OF BREEDS

SCENT HOUNDS

Grand Bleu de Gascogne


HEIGHT
2428in
(6070 cm)

WEIGHT
80120lb
(3655kg)

LIFE SPAN
1214 years

FROM FRANCE
TO AMERICA

A large working hound with impressive looks that has great


stamina and tenacity when following a scent
This French scent hound originated
in southern and southwestern France,
particularly in the area of Gascony.
Descended from the original hunting
dogs of ancient Gaul, and crossed with
dogs imported by Phoenician traders, this
breed is, in turn, the ancestor of all the
scent hounds found in southern France
(the Midi). The breed is still widespread
in France today, and has also been
introduced to other countries, such as
the UK and the US.
The Grand Bleu de Gascogne was
originally employed to hunt wolves, but
once these declined in numbers it was
used in wild boar and deer hunts. Packs
of hounds are still used to hunt these
animals today, as well as to hunt hare.
The breeds scenting abilities are highly

developed and it is single-minded when


following a trail. It works at a moderately
slow pace but is noted for its endurance
and for its powerful, resonant baying voice.
The breeds tall stature and aristocratic
bearing have led some people to refer to the
Grand Bleu de Gascogne as the King of
Hounds. The elegant appearance is
heightened by its coat, which has areas of
shimmering bluish color, produced by black
mottling over white.
The breed has started to appear in the
show ring but, despite its gentle and friendly
natureand the fact that it bonds closely
with its ownersits size and energy can
make it difcult to live with. The Grand
Bleu de Gascogne needs plenty of exercise,
which should include training that provides
mental as well as physical challenges.

In 1785 George Washington was given seven


Grand Bleu de Gascogne hounds (seen below
in a 1907 French print) by General Lafayette.
Washington, an avid hunter, found the dogs to be
excellent trackers, but they were unaccustomed
to pursuing animals that could climb trees, such
as raccoon. This was frustrating for Washington,
since the dogs often failed to keep their quarry in
the tree until it was shot. Coonhounds were later
developed for this type of hunting by crossing
various breeds, including the Grand Bleu de
Gascogne, whose coloring can be seen in
the Bluetick Coonhound (see p.161).

Typical black
head markings
White with
black markings

Well developed
ews

Low-set, pendant
ears curl inward

Tan markings
on legs, tail, chest,
and head

Kind
expression
Black mottling
gives blue
appearance

Long, oval-shaped feet

165

C ATALOG OF BREEDS | SCENT HOUNDS

Poitevin
HEIGHT 2428in (6272cm)
WEIGHT 132146lb (6066kg)
LIFE SPAN 1112 years

White and orange


Wolf-colored hair also often occurs.
Long, narrow head

This big, courageous hound is adept at


fast and furious pack-hunting over rough
ground, and once hunted the wolves that
used to roam the province of Poitou
below the Vende and Brittany in
western France. The longest-serving
of the French pack hounds, today
this powerfully muscled breed
shows great prowess and
stamina in pursuing wild
boar and deer. It can hunt
all day and can even
follow its quarry
through water.

Large, brown eyes

Saddle of black
hair over
arched back

Muzzle narrows
toward nose

Thin, coneshaped ears

Well muscled
body with deep,
narrow chest
Sleek,
shiny coat

Tricolor

Rounded feet

Slightly arched forehead

Billy

Clearly dened stop

HEIGHT 2328in (5870cm)


WEIGHT 5573lb (2533kg)
LIFE SPAN 1213 years

A sleek, attractive breed built for speed,


the Billy has remained relatively obscure
even in its native France. Its forebears are
the now extinct Montemboeuf, Ceris,
and Larye breeds. Its quirky name comes
from Chteau de Billy in Poitou where
Gaston Hublot du Rivault bred this
instinctive hunter of roe deer and wild
boar in the late 1800s. Numbers fell
dramatically during World War II, but
the breed was revived by Hublot du
Rivaults son, Anthony. Starting with
just two dogs as his foundation stock, it
took until the 1970s for him to establish
sufcient numbers to form several packs.
The breed remains rare outside France.

166

Strong, slightly
arched back
Long, strong tail

Short, harsh
coat

White with
light orange
patches
Mottling resembles
caf au lait

SCENT HOUNDS

French Tricolor
Hound

Great Anglo-French Tricolor


Hound

HEIGHT 2428in (6072cm)


WEIGHT 7577lb (3435kg)
LIFE SPAN 1112 years

HEIGHT 2428in (6070cm)


WEIGHT 6677lb (3035kg)
LIFE SPAN 1012 years

Perhaps the most popular hound in France, the French Tricolor


Hound was blended from the Poitevin (opposite) and Billy
(opposite) to try to create a homegrown pack hound
without English Foxhound (see p.158) blood, though
there is a hint of Great Anglo-French Tricolor
Hound (right). Today these
Tricolor
strong, well muscled pack
dogs hunt game such as
deer and wild boar.
Large, brown
eyes
Deep
chest

Like several French scent hounds, the name says what it is:
a tricolored dog with cross-Channel connectionsthe Great
refers to the game it hunts, such as red deer, not the dogs
size. Its coat and character come from the tricolored
Poitevin (opposite), and the powerful muscles
and stamina from the English
Black blanket
Foxhound (see p.158).

Broad,
pendant,
tan ears
Tricolor
Short, quite
coarse coat

Dark mottling
on legs

Short, ne coat

Fairly
broad,
white
chest
Rounded
feet

Great Anglo-French
White and Black Hound

Pale tan markings above


eyes and on cheeks

HEIGHT 2428in (6272cm)


WEIGHT 6677lb (3035kg)
LIFE SPAN 1012 years

This Anglo-French scent hound is one of three color-based


varieties recognized as separate breeds. It originated in the 1800s
from a mix of Bleu de Gascogne and Gason Saintongeois hounds
(see p.163) crossed with English Foxhound (see p.158). Most live
in kennels in France and are used to hunt deer in packs. Very few
of these powerful, sturdy hunters
are kept as domestic pets.
Deep-set,
brown eyes

White
and black

Black mantle
Long tail
ends in
sharp point

167

C ATALOG OF BREEDS | SCENT HOUNDS

French White and Black Hound


WEIGHT
5766lb
(2630kg)

HEIGHT
2428in
(6272cm)

LIFE SPAN
1012 years

CHIEN DORDRE
There are many breeds of hound in France but
only a few, such as the French White and Black
Hound, are considered to be a Chien dOrdre.
These big dogs, working in packs, hunt large
game such as deer. The dogs track by scent and
pursue their quarry, under the clear direction
of a huntsman, until it is caught and killed. To
do this a French White and Black Hound needs
courage, stamina, speed, and a good nose.

A swift-footed, stamina-lled hunter of large game that


gives endless chase and requires strenuous exercise
This uncommon but striking hound
was rst developed in France in the early
20th century. The earliest ancestor was
the Saintonge Hound, whose own origins
are uncertain but which was bred to hunt
wolves. The modern French White and
Black Hound was developed by Henri de
Falandre, who wanted to create a hound
with exceptional stamina and endurance.
The breed, a mix of Bleu de Gascogne and
Gascon Saintongeois breeds (see p.163), was
ofcially recognized by the FCI in 1957.
However, in 2009 the FCI recorded no more
than 2,000 of these dogs in existence.

The French White and Black Hound is


highly valued for hunting deer, particularly
roe deer, due to its tenacity and agility.
It is usually kept as a working dog and
kenneled in packs, rather than as a
companion dog. The breed can be a good
house dog with the right owner, since it is
amiable and gentle with children. It does,
however, have a strong pack instinct, so
requires rm handling.
It needs a home in the country or
one with a large yard, plenty of exercise,
and opportunities to express its hunting
and tracking drives.

Tan markings
above eyes
White and
black

Long, thin tail


Slightly arched back
with dipping croup

Large,
pendant
ears

Black mantle

Short,
dense coat
Bluish speckling
on legs

168

SCENT HOUNDS

Great Anglo-French White


and Orange Hound

French White and


Orange Hound
HEIGHT 2428in (6270cm)
WEIGHT 6071lb (2732kg)
LIFE SPAN 1213 years

HEIGHT 2428in (6070cm)


WEIGHT 7577lb (3435kg)
LIFE SPAN 10 years

One of three breeds of the Great Anglo-French pack-hunting


dogs produced in the early 19th century, this hound is the result
of crossing the English Foxhound (see p.158) with a large, French
scent houndthe Billy (see p.166). Although trainable and kindnatured, this dog lives to hunt and is too
energetic to be happy in
complete domesticity.

Rarely seen, the French White and Orange Hound is a relatively


new hunting dogonly gaining recognition in the 1970s. Easier
to manage than most pack hounds, this dog is usually reliable with
children and other dogs but must be supervised around small pets.
It loves action and should not be
kept in a conned space.

Drop ears with


rounded tips

Sleek, short,
relatively thin coat

Drop ears
twist slightly
at tips

Deep chest

White and
orange

White and
orange

Muscular
thighs

Orange patch

Westphalian Dachsbracke
HEIGHT 1215in (3038cm)
WEIGHT 3340lb (1518kg)
LIFE SPAN 1012 years

Short, netextured coat

Alpine Dachsbracke
HEIGHT 1317in (3442cm)
WEIGHT 2649lb (1222kg)
LIFE SPAN 12 years

A short-legged version of the German Hound (see p.172),


this sturdy little dog was bred to hunt small game in areas too
thickly overgrown for larger dogs to penetrate. Playful and
cheerily good-natured, the Westphalian Dachsbracke makes
a delightful companion and is well suited to family life.
Red with black
mantle and white
bracken markings

Vierugl (black and tan)


May have white star on chest.

Hunting dogs very similar in appearance to the Alpine Dachsbracke


existed hundreds of years ago and may have been the predecessors of
this small hound. In the 1930s the modern breed was recognized as
one of Austrias top scent hounds. Sturdy, tireless, and bred to hunt,
it is not an ideal house dog.

Longer hairs on
underside of tail

Dense, dark coat,


interspersed with
black hairs

Deer-red

White blaze
extends down
on to muzzle

Prominent
chest bone
Smooth
coat

Drop ears with


well rounded
tips

Well muscled,
long body
Strong,
round feet
PUPPY

169

C ATALOG OF BREEDS | SCENT HOUNDS

Dachshund
HEIGHT
Miniature: 56in (1315cm)
Standard: 89in (2023cm)

LIFE SPAN
1215 years

WEIGHT
Miniature: 911lb (45kg)
Standard: 2026lb (912kg)

Variety of colors
SMOOTH-HAIRED

Inquisitive, brave, loyal, and with a bark that belies its size,
this dog is popular as a companion and watchdog
A symbol of Germany, the Dachshund has
become popular worldwide and earned the
nicknames sausage dog and weiner.
The breed originated as a long-bodied,
short-legged dog used to hunt grounddwelling animals such as badgers; the name
Dachshund means badger dog in German.
The dogs could trail their quarry by scent as
other hounds do, but could also go to
ground like terriers, to ush out or kill their
prey. In addition to the badger, the dogs
hunted rabbit, fox, and stoat, and could
even take on wolverines.
The modern Dachshund has even
shorter legs than its forebears, and includes
crosses from other small or short-legged
breeds. During the 18th and 19th centuries
different sizes were bred for different types
of prey. Also, in addition to the original

smooth-haired coat, two other varieties


longhaired and wirehairedwere created.
The American Kennel Club recognizes six
breeds: standard and miniature sizes, with
three coat types for each size. The FCI
recognizes the three coat types, plus three
sizesstandard, miniature, and rabbit (the
smallest)based on chest circumference.
Some Dachshunds are still used in
Germany for hunting, but most are family
pets. Despite their small size, Dachshunds
need plenty of physical and mental activity.
They are clever, bold, and affectionate, but
can be strong-willed and tend to ignore
commands when following a scent.
Dachshunds are protective toward their
human family and make good guard dogs,
but can be snappy with strangers.
Longhaired dogs need daily grooming.

ARTISTS CHOICE
Three of the worlds greatest artistsPablo
Picasso, Andy Warhol, and David Hockney
owned smoothhaired Dachshunds. Both Picasso
and Warhol painted pictures of their dogs but
only Hockney produced enough canvasses to
have an exhibition in which they were the sole
subjects. Hockney referred to Stanley and
Boogie, his dogs, as two
dear little creatures
(that) are my friends;
food and love
dominate
their lives.

DAVID HOCKNEY

PUPPY (LONGHAIRED)
Shallow stop

Hair shorter
on head

Shaded red

Body much
longer than
leg length

Shaded red

Feathered,
pendant ears

Long,
silky coat

Tan mustache
and beard

Black
and tan
Coat is coarse
to touch

LONGHAIRED

Forefeet bigger
and broader
than hind feet

WIREHAIRED

170

Bundle of fun
Despite its short legs, the Dachshund is a lively,
energetic dog that needs plenty of activity and
mental stimulation. The breed is well-known for
temporarily turning a deaf ear to any commands
when it nds an interesting scent to follow.

C ATALOG OF BREEDS | SCENT HOUNDS

German Hound

Broad,
pendant
ears

HEIGHT 1621in (4053cm)


WEIGHT 3540lb (1618kg)
LIFE SPAN 1012 years

Numerous hunting dogs of the type


known as brackes existed in Germany
for centuries. Today the German Hound,
or Deutsche Bracke, is one of the few to
survive. This hound, bred by combining
several bracke varieties, is still used
mainly for hunting. Although goodnatured, the German Hound does
not adapt well to life indoors.

White blaze
on head

Slightly arched back


with black blanket

Tan

Distinctive
esh-pink
nose edged
with black

White chest
markings

Short,
smooth
coat
White
markings
on feet

Drever
HEIGHT 1215in (3038cm)
WEIGHT 3135lb (1416kg)
LIFE SPAN 1214 years

Variety of colors

In the early 20th century a small, shortlegged hound from Germany, the Westphalian
Dachsbracke, was imported to Sweden. The
breed proved popular as a game tracker, and
by the 1940s the Swedes had developed their
own version, the Drever.
Because of its strong
hunting instinct, this
breed is best kept
as a sporting dog.

Large head
in proportion
to body

Drop ears with


rounded tips

White neck hair


extends down
on to chest

Smooth
coat

Long, thick tail


with white tip
Body length
greater than
leg length

White feet

172

Shaded red
with white
markings

Laufhund
HEIGHT
1923in
(4759cm)

LIFE SPAN
12 years

WEIGHT
3344lb
(1520kg)

SCHWYZER

This noble-headed, lean hound with Roman


roots has a laid-back attitude to life
Also known as the Swiss Hound, dogs
of this type have existed in Switzerland
for hundreds of years; a Roman mosaic
found at Avenches shows pack hounds
resembling the Laufhund. There are four
varieties, each named after a Swiss canton
and certied by its coat colorsthe Bernese
(white with black patches), Lucerne (blue),
Schwyzer Laufhunds (white with red
patches), and Bruno Jura (tan with black
blanket; see p.140). (A further variety, the
Thurgovia, had died out by the early
20th century.)
The Laufhund is a tireless, strong-nosed
tracker that works easily in high Alpine
terrain; it is especially well-known for

White with
black patches

Elegant tail carried


hanging down

THE SAME OR DIFFERENT?

tracking rabbit, fox, and roe deer. The


double-layered coat, with its dense
undercoat and hard top coat, gives
protection in all weather.
These dogs are still used for hunting
today. They also make elegant companions;
the ne, sculpted head and good proportions
lend the Laufhund an air of nobility.
At home the breed is relaxed and docile,
and is friendly to children. However, it
does need a lot of exercise to burn off
its energy; it would do well in a country
home with an active owner.

Originally all called Swiss Beagles, these Swiss


hunting dogs were split into four breeds based
on regional differences in 1881. Although similar
in form, the Jura, Schwyzer, Bernese (shown
below in a French print from 1907), and Lucerne
dogs differ in color, possibly reecting the
different breeds used in their development.
The Lucerne, for example, shows a marked
similarity to the Petit Bleu de Gascogne (see
p.163). In the 1930s the dogs were united once
again, under a single FCI breed standard, since
Laufhunds with four color varieties. The dogs
are, however, assessed and exhibited separately
as if they were still distinct breeds.

Slim, elegant, domed


head with tan markings

Pendant ears set


below eye level

Firm, straight back

Black marking
on head

Blue

Light to dark tan


markings on cheeks

BERNESE

LUCERNE

173

C ATALOG OF BREEDS | SCENT HOUNDS

Niederlaufhund
HEIGHT
1317in
(3343cm)

WEIGHT
1833lb
(815kg)

LIFE SPAN
1213 years
LUCERNE

THE ROUGH-COATED
BERNESE

This highly vocal Swiss hound is an excellent hunting


dog and a good family pet, when given sufcient exercise

In downsizing Laufhunds to Niederlaufhunds,


breeders of the Schwyzer, Lucerne, and Jura
varieties produced an identical but smaller
scent hound with the same smooth
coat as the original dogs. The
same careful planning went
into producing the Bernese
Niederlaufhund, but it
resulted in about one in 20
to 40 puppies being born
with a rough coat. There
appears to be no clear
explanation for the origin
of this coat type and it
remains rare. The dog is, in
all other respects, the
same as the smoothcoated Bernese
Niederlaufhund.

This smaller, shorter-legged version of


the Laufhund (see p.173) was developed
in the early 20th century. It was bred for
use in shooting, specically to make the
most of the Swiss cantons high-mountain
game reservesthe larger Laufhund was
thought to move too fast in these enclosed
areas. Being slower, the Niederlaufhund
can track big game more effectively than its
larger cousin. This short-barreled, stocky
version has a great nose for game such as
wild boar, badger, and bear.
The Niederlaufhund occurs in four
varieties, each developed from one of the
Laufhund varieties: Bernese, Schwyzer,
Jura, and Lucerne. Each has a distinctive

coat color, similar to those of their larger


counterparts. The Bernese Niederlaufhund
comes in a smooth-haired version and a
rarer rough-coated version with a small
beard. The Schwyzer, Jura, and Lucerne
are all smooth-haired.
The Niederlaufhund is still primarily
used as a working dog but also makes an
excellent family pet, since it has a friendly
nature and is good with children. The
breed needs rm but positive obedience
training, as well as the opportunity to
express its strong drive for nding and
tracking scents. It is best suited to a rural
home where it can be offered plenty of
exercise and mental stimulation.

Tan markings
over eyes

Friendly, alert
facial expression

Long,
pendant ears
Long tail carried
down when active

White blaze
extends on to
sides of muzzle

White with
black patches

BERNESE,
SMOOTH-HAIRED

SCHWYZER
White with
orange patches

174

SCENT HOUNDS

Bavarian Mountain Hound


HEIGHT 1720in (4452cm)
WEIGHT 5577lb (2535kg)
LIFE SPAN 10 years

Fawn to biscuit
Coat may be brindled and may have
a small, light-colored patch on chest.

This handsome German hound, with a


relatively light build, was rst bred in the
1870s specically to work in mountainous
regions. A peerless tracker, the Bavarian
Mountain Hound is used to follow
large game such as wild boar
and deer. Steady-natured,
though needing a lot of
exercise, it makes a
good family dog.

Broad, at
head

Dark, alert eyes

Back rises slightly


toward hindquarters

Broad,
pendant ears

Dark
mask

Short, harsh,
close-tting coat

Deer-red

Hanoverian Scenthound
Strongly
dened stop

HEIGHT 1922in (4855cm)


WEIGHT 5588lb (2540kg)
LIFE SPAN 12 years

A classic big-game tracker, German dogs of this type have been


well established since the Middle Ages, when they were taken hunting
on leads. The modern breed, changed little in appearance, is still used
for tracking wounded game. Intensely loyal to a trusted handler,
this dog is cautious with strangers.

Deer-red
brindle

Strong,
long back
Pendulous
ews

Slight wrinkle
on forehead
High-set, broad,
pendant ears

Long tail with


slight curve

Short, thick,
harsh-textured coat

175

C ATALOG OF BREEDS | SCENT HOUNDS

Doberman Pinscher
HEIGHT
2627in
(6569cm)

WEIGHT
6688lb
(3040kg)

LIFE SPAN
13 years

Isabella
Blue
Brown

This strong and graceful dog makes a loyal and obedient


pet for an experienced and active owner
This powerful, protective breed was
created in the late 19th century by a German
tax ofcial named Louis Dobermann who
needed a dog to protect him. He developed
the breed from the German Shepherd Dog
(see p.42) and the German Pinscher (see
p.218), which is why the dog is still known as
the Doberman Pinscher. Other crosses are
thought to include the Greyhound (see
p.126), the Rottweiler (see p.83), the
Manchester Terrier (see p.212), and the
Weimaraner (see p.248). From these breeds,
the Doberman Pinscher inherited a collection
of admirable traits, including guarding and
tracking abilities, intelligence, endurance,
speed, and good looks.
The breed was rst presented at a
dog show in 1876 and was immediately
popular. By the 20th century it was in
demand throughout the US and Europe
as a police dog and guard dog and for
use by the military.

Still widely used for police and


security work, this breed is
also popular as a house dog.
In the past Doberman
Pinschers have had an
unjustied reputation for being
aggressive. They do need rm,
authoritative handling, but in
return they are loving, loyal, and
willing to learn. Studies have
shown that the Doberman
Pinscher is one of the easiest
breeds to train. They enjoy
being part of family life
the more active the better.
In the US and some other
countries, the ears may
still be cropped to stand
upright and the tail may
be docked, but these
practices are illegal in
much of Europe.

DOBERMANNS IN THE MARINE CORPS


The US Marine Corps rst used dogs in World
War II, as sentries, scouts, messengers, and to
detect enemy troops. Most of the war dogs,
nicknamed devil dogs, were Dobermanns.
Seven dog platoons served in the Pacic and
their brave actions saved many human lives.
In 1994 a statue of a Dobermann was unveiled
at the War Dog Cemetery on Guam (right) to
commemorate the 25 dogs that died liberating
the island 50 years previously. The statues name,
Always Faithful, is a translation of the Marines
motto, Semper Fidelis.

ALWAYS FAITHFUL STATUE


AT THE MARINE CORPS WAR
DOG CEMETERY, GUAM

176

PUPPY

SCENT HOUNDS
Long, attopped head

Triangular,
drop ears

Typical tan
markings

Black and tan


Back slopes gently down
toward croup

Almond-shaped eyes
with tan spot above

Smooth,
short coat

Deep chest

Compact,
catlike feet

177

C ATALOG OF BREEDS | SCENT HOUNDS

Polish Hound

Black Forest Hound


HEIGHT 1620in (4050cm)
WEIGHT 3344lb (1520kg)
LIFE SPAN 1112 years

HEIGHT 2226in (5565cm)


WEIGHT 4471lb (2032kg)
LIFE SPAN 1112 years

The Black Forest Hound, or Slovensk Kopov, originated


in the foothills and snowy mountain forests of central
Eastern Europe. It is used to hunt boar, deer, and other
game in small packs or alone. Local hunters
like the breed because it can follow a scent
for hours through dense thickets,
protected by its coarse coat.

Slightly
tapered,
black
nose

Evolving from a heavier bracke and lighter scent hound,


this rare breed emerged as a large game hunter in Polands thick,
mountainous forests. The ancestors of this hound hunted in packs
for Polish nobility during the Middle Ages. The Polish Hound
displays excellent tracking abilities
regardless of how fast it is running.
Black saddle

Black
and tan

Black and tan


Drop
ears with
rounded tips

Typical
tan spots
above eyes

Tip of
ear twists

Short
coat
Oval-shaped feet
with well-arched toes

Posavaz Hound

Transylvanian
Hound

HEIGHT 1823in (4658cm)


WEIGHT 3553lb (1624kg)
LIFE SPAN 1012 years

HEIGHT 2226in (5565cm)


WEIGHT 5577lb (2535kg)
LIFE SPAN 1013 years

Also known as the Hungarian Hound, or Erdelyi Kop, this


hardy hunting dog was once the preserve of Hungarian kings and
princes. Then, as now, its keen sense of direction, and hardiness
in heavy, snowbound Carpathian forests
and climate extremes made it the
Drop ears widen
and then taper to
large game hunter of choice.
a rounded tip
However, it remains
an extremely
rare breed.
Black lips

The Croatian name for the Posavaz Hound, Posavski Gonic,


can be translated as scent hound from the Sava valley, and its robust
build makes it ideally suited to the dense underbrush of
the Sava river basin. Passionate in the hunt,
this hound is very docile in the home.

Reddish
wheaten
Straight,
dense coat

Long,
narrow
head

Large,
dark eyes

Tan spots
above dark
brown eyes

White collar
and chest
Coarse,
short coat
Black
and tan

White muzzle

178

Flat, thin, drop


ears with
rounded tips

SCENT HOUNDS

Bosnian Rough-coated Hound


HEIGHT 1822in (4556cm)
WEIGHT 3555lb (1625kg)
LIFE SPAN 12 years

Tricolor

Formerly known as the Illyrian Hound,


this breed has been a hunters
companion since the 19th
century. A hardy, solidly
built dog, it has a thick,
coarse-haired coat that
enables it to work in
bitterly cold weather
and through thick
undergrowth.

Bicolor

Dark red,
drop ears
Large, oval,
chestnutbrown eyes

Blackish area
on back extends
from neck to tail
Reddish yellow
hair on chest
and legs

Long, wiry,
coat has thick
undercoat

Catlike
hind feet

Montenegrin Mountain Hound


HEIGHT 1721in (4454cm)
WEIGHT 4455lb (2025kg)
LIFE SPAN 12 years

Also known as the Serbian Mountain


Hound, this rare dog from the Planina
region of Serbia has a calm, gentle nature
that is appreciated by nonhunting
owners. Nevertheless, it remains a
superb hound for hunting fox and
rabbit, or even larger animals such
as deer and wild boar.

Tan
markings

Long,
pendant ears
Moderately
developed
ews

Tail carried
saber fashion

Black and tan


Tan markings
on chest

Glossy coat
rough to the
touch

179

C ATALOG OF BREEDS | SCENT HOUNDS

Pendant ears

Serbian Tricolored Hound


HEIGHT 1722in (4455cm)
WEIGHT 4455lb (2025kg)
LIFE SPAN 12 years

Once regarded as a variety of the


Montenegrin Mountain Hound
(see p.179), this rare breed has
striking white markings that
distinguish it from its relative.
Used to hunt fox and rabbit,
or occasionally larger
game, it also makes a
gentle and devoted
family dog.

Black mantle

White hair on
chest reaches
to end of
breastbone

Tricolor
Short, abundant,
gleaming coat
White
legs
White tip
to tail

Serbian Hound

Black markings
on either side
of temples

HEIGHT 1722in (4456cm)


WEIGHT 4455lb (2025kg)
LIFE SPAN 1214 years

This pack-hunting dog with


a booming voice tracks game
of all sizes from rabbit to elk
and boar. Away from the hunt,
it is sweet-natured and makes
a good companion for an
active family, especially
if there are other dogs
around. The Serbian
Hound is also a
ne watchdog.

Pendant ears
Slanting, oval eyes

Prominent
breastbone

Smooth coat

180

Red with
black mantle

SCENT HOUNDS
Shallow stop

Hellenic Hound

Typical houndshaped head

HEIGHT 1822in (4555cm)


WEIGHT 3744lb (1720kg)
LIFE SPAN 11 years

Drop ears with


rounded tips

Descended from the traditional


scent hounds of ancient Greece,
the Hellenic Hound has a musical
hunting voice that carries over
long distances. Once used to
hunt boar and rabbit, if trained
with care, the breed can be
a pleasant companion, but
without plenty of space
to run in can develop
bad behavior.

Back long in
proportion to height

Tan markings
on face
Graceful,
powerful neck

Short,
smooth coat

Tail tapers to
pointed tip

Black and tan

Mountain Cur
HEIGHT 1626in (4166cm)
WEIGHT 4060lb (1827kg)
LIFE SPAN 1216 years

Variety of colors
Drop ears

Originating in North America when early settlers from Europe


crossed their hunting dogs with native dogs, the Mountain
Cur was rst recognized in the 1950s. It is still used
for hunting raccoon and larger game such as
bears. Mountain Curs are not indoor dogs,
but with the right training they make
good companions.
Short,
dense coat

Muscular
back

Red

Strong,
muscular
neck

Broad head

White
markings
on chest
Large,
dark eyes

White tips
on toes

181

C ATALOG OF BREEDS | SCENT HOUNDS

SCENT HOUNDS

Rhodesian Ridgeback
HEIGHT
2427in
(6169cm)

WEIGHT
6590lb
(2941kg)

LIFE SPAN
1012 years

THE LION DOG

Boisterous and highly strung, this dog needs an experienced


owner and plenty of mental and physical activity
This African hound is instantly recognizable
by the distinctive ridge of hair along its back,
growing in the opposite direction from the
rest of the coat. Native to Zimbabwe
(formerly Rhodesia), the breed is descended
from dogs that European settlers brought to
southern Africa in the 16th and 17th
centuries. These imported dogs were crossed
with the semi-wild, ridge-backed hunting
dogs used by the indigenous people. The
resulting dogs were introduced to Rhodesia
in 1870, and the rst breed standard for the
Rhodesian Ridgeback was drawn up in 1922.
The breed was used in packs to hunt lion,
with hunters on horseback; for this reason it
is sometimes known as
the African Lion Dog.
It was also used for
other quarry, such as

baboons. The dogs had the stamina to work


all day and could endure the hot days and
cold nights in the African bush. They were
also used as guard dogs to protect families
and property.
The Rhodesian Ridgeback is still used
today for hunting and as a guard dog, but
it is also increasingly popular as a family
companion. Despite the breeds erce image,
it is kind-natured and affectionate, although
perhaps too boisterous for small children. It
is highly protective toward its human family
but reserved around strangers, and needs to
be socialized thoroughly from an early age.
This intelligent, strong-minded dog does best
with an experienced owner who will be a
kind but rm pack leader. It needs to be kept
occupied, since it may develop behavioral
problems if bored or underexercised.

The Rhodesian Ridgeback inherits its hunting


drive from European dogs, including Great
Danes (see p.96), Mastiffs (see p.93), and
Pointers (see pp.25458), and the tough,
fearless dogs of the Khoikhoi people. Small
packs were used to hunt lion; the dogs had
the speed and agility to keep up with the
quarry, and the courage to hold a lion at
bay (below) until the hunter shot it. The
breed has also been used in South America
to hunt jaguar and in North America to hunt
mountain lion, lynx, and bear.

Black nose

Sleek, short
coat

Drop ears
slightly darker
than rest of coat
PUPPY
Dark muzzle

Characteristic
ridge of hair
Small, white
marking on chest

Red-wheaten

White markings
on toes

Compact feet

Long tail tapers


from base

183

Digging instinct
Intent on his task, this Jack Russell
Terrier is doing what comes naturally
excavating a hole. Most terriers are
inveterate diggers and tunnelers.

TERRIERS

TERRIERS
Tough, fearless, self-condent, energetica terrier can claim all of these descriptions, and more. The
terrier group takes its name from the Latin word terra (soil), referring to the original use of various
types of small dog as hunters of underground-dwelling vermin, such as rats. However, some modern
terriers are large dogs, bred for different purposes.

Many breeds of terrier originated in


the UK, where they were traditionally
regarded as hunting dogs for the
working man. Some are named after
the regions where they were rst bred:
for example, Norfolk Terrier (see
p.192), Yorkshire Terrier (see p.190),
and Lakeland Terrier (see p.206).
Others are known by the types of
animal they were used to hunt: for
example, Fox Terrier (see p.208) and
Rat Terrier (see p.212).
Terriers are by nature quick to react
and show great persistence when on
the track of quarry. They possess
independentsome would say
willfulcharacters and are ready to
stand their ground against larger dogs.
The dogs developed for hunting below
ground, including the much-loved Jack
Russell (see p.196) and Cairn Terriers

(see p.189), are small, sturdy, and


short-legged. Terriers with longer legs,
such as the Irish Terrier (see p.200)
and the beautiful Soft-coated Wheaten
Terrier (see p.205), were once used
for hunting above ground and also
as guard dogs for protecting ocks.
The largest terriers of all include the
Airedale Terrier (see p.198), originally
bred for hunting badger and otter,
and the impressively built Black
Russian Terrier (see p.200), which was
specically developed for military
use and guard duties.
In the 19th century a different type
of terrier became popular. Crosses
between terriers and bulldogs produced
such dogs as the Bull Terrier (see
p.197), the Staffordshire Bull Terrier
(see p.214), and the American Pit Bull
Terrier (see p.213), breeds intended for

the vicious and now illegal sports of


dogghting and bullbaiting. With their
broad heads and powerful jaws, these
dogs suggest a close afnity with
mastiffs and are, in fact, likely to be
related to that group.
Most types of terrier are today kept
as pets. Intelligent and usually friendly
and affectionate, they make excellent
companions and watchdogs. Because
of their inherent traits, terriers need
to be trained and socialized early to
prevent trouble with other dogs and
pets. Hunting-type terriers also love
to dig and can wreak havoc in a yard
if unsupervised. The modern breeds of
those dogs historically used for ghting
are now largely free from aggression
and, when properly trained by an
experienced owner, are usually
trustworthy with families.

185

C ATALOG OF BREEDS | TERRIERS

Cesky Terrier
HEIGHT
1013in
(2532cm)

WEIGHT
1322lb
(610kg)

LIFE SPAN
1214 years

Liver

Can have yellow, gray, or white markings on the beard


and cheeks, neck, chest, belly, and limbs, sometimes
with a white collar or a white tip to the tail.

Tough, fearless, and sometimes willful, with patient training


this dog makes a cheerful, laid-back companion
Also known as the Czech Terrier or
Bohemian Terrier, this breed was created
in the 1940s in what is now the Czech
Republic. Its founder, Frantisek Horak,
already bred Scottish Terriers for hunting,
but he wanted to create a smaller dog that
could t into animal burrows and would be
easy to handle and keep. He contacted people
who owned Sealyham Terriers, and in 1949
crossed these with Scottish Terriers. He made
more of these crosses in the 1950s, keeping
careful records, to create the Cesky Terrier.
Horaks new breed was registered with
the Czechoslovakian Kennel Club in 1959
and the FCI in 1963. In the 1980s he made
further Sealyham crosses to broaden the
breeds genetic base.
The Cesky Terrier is ideally built for
hunting fox, rabbit, duck, pheasant, and
even wild boar in its native country. It has
plenty of stamina and a strong hunting
drive, either working alone or in packs.

FOUNDER OF THE BREED


The Cesky Terrier owes its existence to one man:
Frantisek Horak (190996), who started breeding
dogs from the age of nine, and bred his rst
Scottish Terriers in the 1930s. Once he had
begun to develop the Cesky Terrier, from 1949
Horak and his Lovu Zdar (Successful Hunting)
kennels became nationally famous, and after the
Czech Republics borders opened in 1989,
people came from all over the world to meet
him. He lived long
enough to see his
creation become a
national symbol of
the country.

A CESKY TERRIER,
BOTTOM LEFT, ON A
CZECHOSLOVAKIAN
POSTAGE STAMP
FROM c.1990

186

The breed is still used as a working dog


and is also a useful watchdog. Though it
has spread to Europe and the US, the Cesky
Terrier remains rare outside the Czech
Republic. For a terrier, this dog has a
relatively relaxed, playful character and it
is sometimes kept simply as a companion.
However, it retains some terrier
stubbornness, so needs consistent
training from an early age.
The coat is softer than
that of most terriers;
it is typically clipped
short on the body
and left long on
the face, legs, and
belly. It needs
to be brushed
every few days
and trimmed
every three to
four months.

Slightly wavy coat


has silky sheen

Tail carried
low at rest

Yellow-white color
of lower leg and
feet matches beard

TERRIERS
Hair left long
on front of head

Gray-blue

Long hair
forms beard

Triangular,
drop ears

Forefeet
larger than
hind feet

187

C ATALOG OF BREEDS | TERRIERS

West Highland White Terrier


HEIGHT
1011in
(2528cm)

LIFE SPAN
915 years

WEIGHT
1522lb
(710kg)

WESTIE BRANDING
The West Highland White Terriers white coat,
chunky shape, and lively personality have become
the distinctive brand for some world-famous
products. The most obvious is Cesar, a brand
of dog food made specially for small dogs. Black
& White Scotch Whisky highlights its traditional
Scottish character with a black Scottish Terrier
and a white West
Highland Terrier
on the labels. The
fashion label Juicy
Couture features
two of the breed
in the logo for
their fragrances.

A perky and cheerful character, this terrier can be


bossy with other dogs unless socialized as a puppy
One of the best loved of small terriers,
the Westie was developed in Scotland
in the 19th century from Cairn Terriers
(opposite). The man most closely associated
with developing the breed was Colonel
Edward Malcolm, the 16th Laird of
Poltalloch. One story has it that Colonel
Malcolm decided to breed the white terriers
after a reddish brown Cairn Terrier of his
was mistaken for a fox and shot; white dogs
would not be so easily mistaken for quarry.
The West Highland White Terrier was
bred to hunt fox, otter, badger, and rodents
such as rats. It had to be strong and agile,

ADVERTISEMENT
FOR BLACK
& WHITE
SCOTCH WHISKY

able to jump up on to rocks and squeeze into


small crevices. It also needed the courage
to face foxes at close quarters.
Today most West Highland White
Terriers are kept as pets. Intelligent, curious,
and friendly, they suit all types of homes.
These dogs need plenty of company and
activity, otherwise they can become bored
and develop bad habits such as excessive
barking and digging. Early social training
is recommended, since West Highland White
Terriers have large egos for their size and can
be overbearing with other dogs. The coat
needs to be groomed every few days.

Small, sharply
pointed, erect ears

Short, straight
tail held upright

Dark, bright
eyes beneath
heavy eyebrows

Thick coat may


need occasional
trimming

Compact,
sturdy body

White

Short legs

188

Front feet
larger than
hind feet

Profuse hair on head

TERRIERS

Cairn Terrier
HEIGHT 1112in (2831cm)
WEIGHT 1318lb (68kg)
LIFE SPAN 915 years

Red
Gray, nearly black
Coat may be brindled.

Originating in the Western Isles of Scotland, the Cairn Terrier


was bred for hunting vermin. Amusing and full of character, this
sturdy terrier is small enough for apartment life and energetic
enough for romping round a large country home;
it ts in anywhere. The Cairn Terriers urge to
chase everything that
moves should be
discouraged
early on.
Shaggy

Dark ears with


shorter hair

Wheaten

Straight,
coarse coat

eyebrows
overhang
dark hazel
eyes

Cream
Front feet
larger than
hind feet

Sealyham Terrier

Scottish Terrier
HEIGHT 1011in (2528cm)
WEIGHT 2024lb (911kg)
LIFE SPAN 915 years

HEIGHT 1012in (2530cm)


WEIGHT 1820lb (89kg)
LIFE SPAN 14 years

Wheaten
Coat may be brindled.

This breed was first named in the late 19th century, but dogs
of this type existed in the Scottish Highlands much earlier. Powerful
and agile despite their short stature, Scotties were bred as verminhunters like the West Highland White Terrier (opposite) and Cairn
Terrier (above). Affectionate and watchful, the Scottish Terrier
is a good home companion.
Bushy

Originally bred in Wales to tackle badgers and otters, this breed


has no working role today but is kept as a pet. Their territorial
nature makes Sealyham Terriers good watchdogs, but an innate
stubbornness means that persistence in training is required.
The show clip is distinctive, but requires regular maintenance.

eyebrows

Mediumsized, dark,
round eyes

Long head
Tapering tail
carried erect
but not curled

Harsh, wiry coat


Black

White
Small,
drop ears

Long,
dense
beard

Clipped
hair gives
jaw square
appearance

189

C ATALOG OF BREEDS | TERRIERS

Yorkshire Terrier
HEIGHT
89in
(2023cm)

WEIGHT
Up to 7lb
(3kg)

LIFE SPAN
1215 years

This dogs cute looks and diminutive size belie the


feisty temperament typical of terriers
Oblivious to its tiny toy stature, the
Yorkshire Terrier has the bravery, energy,
and condence that might be expected of
a dog several times its size. An intelligent
dog, it responds well to obedience training.
However, it is inclined to take advantage
of owners who let it get away with behavior
that would be unacceptable in a larger dog,
and it can become yappy and demanding.
With proper handling, this terrier displays
its natural character: sweet, affectionate,
loyal, and spirited. The Yorkshire Terrier
was developed to catch the rats and mice
that infested the wool mills and mine shafts

MR. FAMOUS

Tail darker than


rest of body

in the north of England. It was gradually


miniaturized through breeding from the
smallest individuals, and over time it became
a fashion accessory that was carried around
by its lady owner. Such pampering, however,
is at odds with the Yorkshire Terriers
dynamic nature and it is much happier
when allowed to walk for at least half
an hour each day.
The long, glossy show coat is wrapped
around paper and secured with rubberbands
to protect it outside the show ring. It is very
time-consuming to maintain, but the dogs
generally love the extra attention.

Dark eyes have


intelligent, alert
expression

One of the rst show business celebrities of


the canine world was a Yorkshire Terrier named
Mr. Famous, who belonged to the movie star
Audrey Hepburn. Mr. Famous was inevitably
rather spoiled because he was Hepburns
constant companion. He went everywhere with
the actress, even appearing alongside her in the
1957 lm Funny Face. Hepburn launched many
trends, from the little black dress to oversized
sunglasses, and Mr. Famous may have been the
forerunner of present-day handbag dogs.

Dark steel-blue

Rich, bright,
tan facial and
chest hair

190

TERRIERS
Small, erect,
V-shaped ears
Long facial hair
(topknot) tied back
with ribbon
Black
nose

YOUNG DOG WITH


CLIPPED COAT
Fine, silky coat

Level back

Long coat parted in


center from nose to end
of tail for show purposes

191

C ATALOG OF BREEDS | TERRIERS

Silky Terrier

Australian Terrier
HEIGHT Up to 10in (25cm)
WEIGHT Up to 15lb (7kg)
LIFE SPAN 15 years

HEIGHT Up to 9in (23cm)


WEIGHT Up to 9lb (4kg)
LIFE SPAN 1215 years

Blue with tan

This terrier is likely to have been the result of crosses between


various terriers, including the Cairn Terrier (see p.189), the
Yorkshire Terrier (see p.190), and the Dandie Dinmont Terrier
(see p.217), which were brought to Australia by British settlers
in the 19th century. Diminutive yet spirited,
Distinct
the Aussie is an excellent house dog.
stop

Harsh, straight,
dense coat

Lighter hair
forms soft
topknot
on head

This attractive dog was produced from crosses between the


Australian Terrier (left) and the Yorkshire Terrier (see p.190) in
the late 19th century. A typical terrier, the Silky Terrier has a
fondness for digging holes, and its instinct to chase
may put other small pets at risk. Regular grooming is
needed to keep this dogs long coat tangle-free.
Upturned,
high-set tail

Straight
back

Lighter-colored
topknot falls
over eyes

Long, silky
coat

Steel-blue

Tan
markings
on legs
and chest
Red

Slight
feathering
on forelegs

Norfolk Terrier
HEIGHT 910in (2225cm)
WEIGHT 1113lb (56kg)
LIFE SPAN 1415 years

Oval eyes
with keen,
alert expression

Red
Black and tan
Coat may be grizzled.

This small terrier was bred from various rat-catching dogs


and is an energetic hunter. Because ratters work in packs,
this breed is more sociable with other dogs than most
terriers, but cannot be trusted with other
pets. It makes a good guard dog or
companion for
families with
older children.

Strong, blunt
muzzle

Straight tail
Drop ears
Wheaten

Compact,
short body

Close-lying
coat
Small,
round feet

192

TERRIERS

Glen of Imaal Terrier


HEIGHT 14in (36cm)
WEIGHT 3537lb (1617kg)
LIFE SPAN 1314 years

Blue
Brindle

This sturdy little dog is more active than its size suggests.
It comes from County Wicklow, Ireland, and was used in badger
trials until these events were banned in the late 1960s. Now the
Glen of Imaal Terrier makes a
sensitive, devoted pet as long as
it has a calm and rm owner.

Broad, slightly domed head


with well developed stop

Wheaten

Shorter-haired, small,
semierect ears

Round,
brown eyes

Harsh, mediumlength coat has


soft undercoat

Strong, compact feet


Short legs

Erect ears differentiate


the Norwich Terrier
from the Norfolk
Terrier (opposite)

Norwich Terrier
HEIGHT 10in (2526cm)
WEIGHT 1113lb (56kg)
LIFE SPAN 1215 years

Wheaten
Red
Red coats may be grizzled.

One of the smallest working terriers, the Norwich Terrier,


like its cousin the Norfolk Terrier (opposite), strikes a happy
balance between courage and gentleness. With its easy-going
nature, it is good with children but will bark at strangers.
Like all ratting terriers, it is playful and loves to chase.

Short,
compact back

Oval-shaped,
bright, dark eyes
Long, coarse
hair on neck
creates ruff
around face

Black and tan

Grizzle and tan

Rounded, catlike feet

Short, straight,
strong forelegs

193

C ATALOG OF BREEDS | TERRIERS

Parson Russell Terrier


HEIGHT
1314in
(3336cm)

WEIGHT
1318lb
(68kg)

LIFE SPAN
15 years

White
May have black markings.

This energetic dog, with a strong hunting instinct,


needs rm handling and an active lifestyle
This foxhunting terrier was one of two
strains previously classied together as the
Jack Russell Terrier. Today the longer-legged
type is known as the Parson Russell Terrier,
while the shorter-legged dog retains the
name of Jack Russell Terrier (see p.196).
The breed was created in Englands
West Country in the early 19th century
by a cleric, the Reverend John Russell.
Like many clergymen in the late 18th and
early 19th centuries, he enjoyed hunting. In
1876 Reverend Russell, a founding
member of the Fox Terrier Club,
helped to write a breed standard for
an ideal type of Fox Terrier (see
p.208). However, the existing fox
hunting terrier with the shape of
an adult vixen persisted, too, and
eventually gave rise to both the
Parson Russell Terrier and the
smaller Jack Russell Terrier.
After many years of work by
Parson Russell enthusiasts,
particularly in the 1980s, the UK

Kennel Club nally recognized the Parson


Jack Russell Terrier as a breed in 1984.
The name Parson Russell Terrier was
established in 1999.
The modern breed is a workmanlike
dog with longish legs and a narrow chest
(easily enclosed by average-sized adult
hands). Intelligent and high-spirited, the
breed needs plenty of company and daily
exercise or it will become yappy and
destructive. It is good with people
and horses, but its hunting drive
may make it a risk to small animals.
The weatherproof coat has a
dense undercoat and a coarse outer
layer, which may be either smooth
or rough (broken). Both types are
easy to groom.

High-set,
white tail
with tan base

SMOOTH-HAIRED
PUPPY

EARLY HISTORY
While studying at Oxford in 1818, John
Russell bought a small, predominantly
white terrier bitch with tan markings from
a milkman. He wanted a dog that was fast
enough to keep up with the horses when
hunting but small enough to go down
burrows after foxes and ush them out.
Named Trump, the terrier became the
foundation bitch of the breed. By the
1890s the Jack Russell type was well
established and seen in the paintings
of the famous English dog artist John
Emms (right), but it was not until the
1980s that the Parson Russell Terrier
was ofcially recognized.
A JACK RUSSELL BY
JOHN EMMS, 1891

194

Lower legs short


relative to upper legs

TERRIERS

V-shaped,
button ears

Fairly deep-set,
dark eyes
Eyebrows
of longer
hairs

SMOOTH-HAIRED

Strong neck

White with
tan markings

Tan markings
mostly conned
to head

Short, rough coat

Longer legs than


Jack Russell Terrier
(see p.196)

ROUGH-HAIRED

195

C ATALOG OF BREEDS | TERRIERS

Jack Russell Terrier


HEIGHT 1012in (2530cm)
WEIGHT 1113lb (56kg)
LIFE SPAN 1314 years

White with black

Bouncy and bold, this working terrier is named after


the Reverend John Russell, who bred them in the 1800s
to ush out foxes. Today this breed makes an excellent rat
catcher and an affectionate and exuberant companion. It
has shorter legs than its more squarely built cousin,
the Parson Russell Terrier (see p.194). There are
two coat types: smooth-haired and wire-haired.

Flat top to head

Tail upright
when active

Body length
exceeds leg
length

Predominantly
white with black
and tan markings

Black
nose

WIRE-HAIRED
Predominantly
white with
tan markings
Round feet
SMOOTH-HAIRED

Boston Terrier
HEIGHT 1517in (3843cm)
WEIGHT 1124lb (511kg)
LIFE SPAN 13 years

Square head
with at top

Brindle
Brindle coats with white markings.

Dubbed the American Gentleman


for its quirky yet dapper looks and docile
nature, the Boston Terrier makes a good
house pet for town or country. This mix
of bulldog and several terrier types
has lost its ratting instincts and
enjoys human company. It has
a boisterous streak and needs
regular exercise.

Erect, pointed ears

Wide-set,
round, dark
eyes

Short
muzzle
with black
nose

Black with
white markings

Low-set,
naturally
short tail

196

Small, round,
compact feet

TERRIERS

Bull Terrier
HEIGHT 2122in (5356cm)
WEIGHT 5171lb (2332kg)
LIFE SPAN 1012 years

Distinctive, long,
oval head

Variety of colors

Largely the result of crossbreeding


between the Bulldog (see p.95)
and terriers of various types, the
Bull Terrier was developed for pitghting in 19th-century England.
A failure at vicious sports, this
dog achieved greater success
as a pet. The modern breed
is normally good-natured
and does well with
a rm owner.

Thin, close-set,
erect ears

White tip
to tail

Wide,
white
chest

Brindle

White

Hind legs
short from
hock to foot

Miniature Bull Terrier


HEIGHT Up to 14in (36cm)
WEIGHT 2433lb (1115kg)
LIFE SPAN 1012 years

This scaled-down version of


the Bull Terrier (above) had
almost disappeared by the
1920s. The breed was revived
in the following decades,
although it is still uncommon.
Like its larger relative, the
Miniature Bull Terrier
needs early training and
socializing to ensure that
it is a good family pet.

White blaze on
forehead

Variety of colors

Typical oval
head with
convex prole

Short, coarse,
glossy coat

Incomplete
white collar

White
Black

Round feet

197

C ATALOG OF BREEDS

198

TERRIERS

Airedale Terrier
HEIGHT
2224in
(5661cm)

WEIGHT
4065lb
(1829kg)

WAR SERVICE

LIFE SPAN
1012 years

The largest of all terriers, this versatile dog makes a good


family pet but may be mischievous and boisterous
The tallest of the terrier breeds, the
Airedale Terrier is known as the King of
Terriers. This square, strong British breed
originated in the valley of the Aire River
in Yorkshire. It was rst developed in the
mid-19th century by local hunters who
wanted a robust terrier for catching vermin
and larger game such as otters. Breeders
therefore crossed black and tan terriers
with the Otterhound (see p.142), as well
as with the Irish Terrier (see p.200) and
possibly the Bull Terrier (see p.197). The
crosses produced a dog with a terriers
courage and an Otterhounds skill in
the water. The breed was put to
work along riverbanks, a practice
that gave the dog its alternative
name, Waterside Terrier. The
Airedale Terrier was ofcially
recognized as a breed in 1878.

The Airedale Terrier became an all-purpose


dog that could follow trails and retrieve as
well as pursue small game. Farmers used
the dog to herd and drive livestock and to
guard property. Airedale Terriers also
featured in competitive rat hunts along the
banks of the Aire River and its tributaries.
From the 1880s dogs were exported to the
US, where they were used to hunt quarry
such as raccoons, coyotes, and bobcats.
The breeds subsequent uses have
included guarding, police and military
work, and search and rescue, but it is
also a popular companion. Friendly,
intelligent, and full of terrier character,
this dog loves the thrill of the chase
and needs plenty of daily exercise. It
has a strong personality, so needs kind
and assertive handling, but responds
well to training.

The Airedale Terrier gave invaluable service


to the British Army and the Red Cross during
World War I. On the battleeld, the dogs
were used to carry messages and mail, and
to nd wounded soldiers. Some endured
grave danger and terrible injuries. One dog,
named Jack was said to have saved a battalion
by carrying a message through a swamp and
under artillery re that broke his jaw and foreleg.
He just completed his mission before he died.
Jack was posthumously awarded a medal for
his gallantry. Airedale terriers were trained
for service in World War II, too, seen below
at a training camp in 1939.

Long,
at head

Drop ears

PUPPY
Tail carried
high when alert
Level back

Bearded muzzle

Wiry,
wavy coat

Dark grizzle
saddle

Grizzle
and tan

199

C ATALOG OF BREEDS | TERRIERS

Black Russian Terrier


HEIGHT 2630in (6677cm)
WEIGHT 84143lb (3865kg)
LIFE SPAN 1014 years

First developed in the 1940s, this


massively built and hardy terrier was
the special creation of the Soviet Army
in the former USSR. The breeders goal
was to produce a large dog suitable for
military work and able to withstand
the severe cold of Russian winters.
Among many breeds used
in its development were the
Rottweiler (see p.83), the Giant
Schnauzer (see p.46), and the
Airedale Terrier (see p.198).
Although formidable in size and
appearance, it can be a friendly
and well-adjusted house dog, if
handled responsibly.

High-set tail,
may curve
over back

Drop ears with


shorter hair

Dense beard
and whiskers
on muzzle

Wavy coat

Long
thighs

Black

Square,
muscular body

Large, compact feet


covered with hair

Irish Terrier
HEIGHT 1819in (4648cm)
WEIGHT 2426lb (1112kg)
LIFE SPAN 1215 years

Long head, narrow


between ears

Wheaten

This handsome breed emerged in County Cork in Ireland and is believed


to have a long history, although its earliest ancestry is unknown. The Irish
Terrier has a delightful temperament and can be trusted with children, but
outside the home it is inclined to be belligerent toward other dogs.
Small, dark eyes
with bushy
eyebrows

Red

Bearded
muzzle

V-shaped,
button ears

Deep chest

Coarse, wiry coat

200

TERRIERS

Welsh Terrier
HEIGHT Up to 15in (39cm)
WEIGHT 2022lb (910kg)
LIFE SPAN 915 years

Black grizzle and tan

Once used in packs for hunting fox, badger, and otter,


the Welsh Terrier was recognized as a breed in the 1880s, and
this medium-sized terrier has gained attention as a show dog.
Although lively and energetic, the Welsh Terrier is easier to
manage than many other terriers and is a good house dog.

Head at
between ears

Tail held upright


Black
and tan
Wiry coat

High-set, small,
button ears

Square,
compact body
Small,
dark eyes
Long thighs

Small, round,
catlike feet

Kerry Blue Terrier


HEIGHT 1819in (4648cm)
WEIGHT 3337lb (1517kg)
LIFE SPAN 14 years

The national dog of Ireland is born black, but its coat color gradually
changes to blue before the age of two. A versatile farm and guard dog,
the Kerry Blue Terrier is intelligent and makes an affectionate and
obedient pet as long as it is well trained and handled rmly.

Neck runs into


sloping shoulders

Long, lean head

Soft, wavy,
luxuriant coat

Deep
chest

Beard covers
strong jaw

Blue

201

C ATALOG OF BREEDS | TERRIERS

202

TERRIERS

Bedlington Terrier
HEIGHT
1617in
(4043cm)

WEIGHT
1822lb
(810kg)

LIFE SPAN
1415 years

BEDLINGTON HISTORY

Sandy
Liver
All colors may have tan markings.

Despite its cuddly appearance and short, high-stepping


gait, this is an eager, swift, and tenacious breed
The typical terrier spirit lies beneath the
woolly coat of the Bedlington Terrier, a dog
that has been described as having the look
of a lamb but the heart of a lion. The breed
originated in Northumberland, in northeast
England, and was bred by both the upper
classes and working men. It was descended
from the Whippet (see p.128) and from
other terrier breeds, and used to hunt hare,
rabbit, fox, and badger above ground. It
could also work in water to hunt rat and
otter. A national breed association was
formed for the Bedlington Terrier in 1877,
and the breed became a feature in the show
ring as well as in family homes.
Its sight hound ancestry has given the
Bedlington Terrier not only great speed
and agility but a more tolerant temper
Hair left
longer on head

than some terriers. Now usually kept as


a companion, the dog is normally quiet,
affectionate, and rather sensitive, but if
provoked it will defend itself in true terrier
fashion. The Bedlington Terrier needs plenty
of physical and mental activity to work off its
energy and prevent boredom. Owners may
need to be vigilant when walking outdoors,
to stop the dog from giving in to its strong
chasing instinct. It has proved itself in agility
and obedience competitions.
The puppies are born dark blue or dark
brown. Their coats grow lighter as they
mature, and need regular trimming. Show
dogs have a unique clip, with long hair on
the face and legs and tassels on the ears.

Relatively small eyes

The ancestors of the Bedlington Terrier included


various terrier types that lived in the area of
Rothbury Forest, in Northumberland, England,
and were known as Rothbury Terriers. The earliest
example of a dog with a Bedlington-like look was
born in 1782 and called Old Flint. In 1825, in the
town of Bedlington, a man named Joseph Ainsley
mated a pair of terriers with this Bedlington look
and declared the resulting puppy the rst of a new
breed, the Bedlington Terrier.

Thin, velvety,
drop ears

Arched,
exible back

Black nose

Non-shedding,
thick coat
Show clip leaves
tassels on ear tips

Blue

Hind legs
appear longer
than forelegs

Deep chest

Dark blue

PUPPY

203

C ATALOG OF BREEDS | TERRIERS

German
Hunting Terrier
HEIGHT
1316in
(3340cm)

ALL-AROUND TERRIER

LIFE SPAN
1315 years

WEIGHT
1822lb
(810kg)

This fearless dog is a tenacious hunter, but can be a faithful


companion given sufcient mental and physical activity
This modern hunting dog (Jagdterrier
in German) was developed in the early
20th century. It was hardly known
outside Germany until the 1950s, when
a few of the dogs were brought to the
US. The dogs are still widely used for
hunting in Germany, and are becoming
popular in North America for hunting
squirrels and birds.
The German Hunting Terrier is happy
to sleep outdoors by night and hunt all day,
above or below ground and in all types
of terrain. It will also work in water. The
breed can be used to pursue quarry that

lives underground, such as fox,


weasel, and badger; to ush rabbit
or wild boar out of thickets; and to
track the blood trails from wounded
animals such as deer.
A brave, active dog, the German
Hunting Terrier needs to work, ideally
in the hunting eld. Kept active, it can
be a loyal family pet as well as an effective
guard dog; it is friendly and willing to
learn, but needs to be socialized early
and have clear leadership. It must have
vigorous exercise every day. There are
two coat types: rough and smooth.

Small, oval,
dark eyes

Black and tan

The German Hunting Terrier was created by


four Bavarian dog breeders just after World
War I to be an all-around, world-class terrier.
At that time, Fox Terriers were popular in
Germany but were bred more for looks than
for utility. The breeders started with four Fox
Terriers, which had the desired black and tan
coloring but lacked in hunting prowess.
They then crossed these dogs with the hunting
Wire Fox Terrier (see p.208), old English wirehaired terriers, and the Welsh Terrier (see p.201).
The result was a hardy, courageous,
multipurpose hunting dog (below).

Slight
stop
Triangular,
button ears

Long,
straight back

Strong neck

Tan markings
on chest
Rough, wiry coat

ROUGH-COATED

SMOOTH-COATED

Forefeet often
broader than
hind feet

204

TERRIERS

Soft Coated
Wheaten Terrier
HEIGHT
1819in
(4649cm)

WEIGHT
3546lb
(1621kg)

THE POOR MANS DOG


In England and Ireland, for many centuries,
only the nobility were allowed to keep hounds
and other hunting dogs. Poorer people kept
terriers, which were easy to care for and could
do a range of jobs. The Soft Coated Wheaten
Terrier (pictured below in a 19th-century
painting by Alfred Duke) was used to kill rats
and other vermin, and also used to guard
property and herd livestock. Later it was taken
hunting as a gundog. Perhaps due to its stature
and hunting skill, it was known as the poor
mans Wolfhound.

LIFE SPAN
1314 years

This all-around farm dog, with its happy-go-lucky,


affectionate nature, adapts well to family life
Known for more than 200 years, the
Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier is probably
one of the oldest Irish breeds. It shares
ancestry with the Irish Terrier (see p.200)
and the Kerry Blue Terrier (see p.201).
Despite its history, it only gained ofcial
recognition in Ireland in 1937.
The breed began life as a working dog,
and the rst dogs had to prove themselves
in rat, rabbit, and badger hunts in order
to become champions. Today it is mainly
kept as a pet, but some dogs also work as
therapy dogs.
The Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier loves
people, being gentler than other terriers, and
it is good with children, although it can be

too boisterous with toddlers. It retains its


puppy nature into adulthood but is a highly
intelligent dog and responds well to training.
It needs plenty of exercise every day.
The breed is named for its coat, which
differs from the wiry coat of other terrier
breeds. There are two main coat types:
the silky, glossy Irish coat, and the
thicker English or American coat.
Many puppies are born with a dark red
or brown coat, which lightens to pale gold
as the dogs mature. The coat will need
thorough grooming every few days, as
well as regular trimming.

Dark hazel eyes

Large, black nose

Tail held
up high

Triangular ears

Wheaten
Topknot falls
over eyes

Longer hair
on muzzle
forms beard

Darker shade
gradually fades
as dog matures

Soft, silky
coat forms
loose waves

Black toenails

205

C ATALOG OF BREEDS | TERRIERS

Forelock falls
forward, giving
a disheveled
appearance

Dutch Smoushond
HEIGHT 1417in (3542cm)
WEIGHT 2022lb (910kg)
LIFE SPAN 1215 years

Darker drop
ears covered
in shorter hair

This former coachmans dog is strong enough to follow


a horse and carriage and is also an avid rat catcher. During
the 1970s this breed almost became extinct; it is still rare
but is now regaining popularity. This dog makes a good
watchdog, gets along well with children,
and will even accept the
family cat. It needs
plenty of exercise.

Yellow

Thin, blackrimmed lips

Unkempt, coarse,
wiry coat with
weatherproof
undercoat

Legs slightly less


hairy than body

Catlike feet
with black nails

Lakeland Terrier
HEIGHT 1315in (3337cm)
WEIGHT 1518lb (78kg)
LIFE SPAN 1314 years

Small, V-shaped,
button ears
carried alertly

Variety of colors

This determined, agile little terrier was bred to chase foxes over
hilly terrain and into their burrows, and it retains the tendency
to chase anything that movesregardless of sizeand to
be aggressive with other dogs. With training, it makes
a fearless guard dog and an enthusiastic companion.

Tail carried
high but
not curled
Back strong and
moderately short

Broad, strong
muzzle hidden
by beard

Long thighs
Grizzle
and tan

Wheaten

Wiry coat

206

Border Terrier
HEIGHT
1011in
(2528cm)

WEIGHT
1115lb
(57kg)

LIFE SPAN
1314 years

Wheaten
Red
Blue and tan

This energetic and cheerful terrier with a laid-back


personality makes a good family pet

NEW JOBS FOR AN


OLD BREED
The traits that made the Border Terrier a good
hunting dog also help it to work well in modernday jobs. One such role is as a therapy dog. The
Border Terriers friendly nature makes it ideal for
comforting sick children, highly stressed people,
and lonely elderly people. In addition, thanks
to its steadiness and courage, the breed has
also been used in disasters such as oods or
accidents, to reduce stress in victims and
emergency personnel.

This breed, known for its endurance and


its distinctive otterlike head, originates in
the Cheviot Hills, on the border between
England and Scotland. Although the UK
Kennel Club only recognized it ofcially
in 1920, the Border Terrier has existed since
at least the 18th century; it is thought to be
one of the oldest terrier breeds in the UK.
The Border Terrier was initially bred as
a working farm dog but became widely used
for hunting. It was bred to be fast enough to
keep up with horses, but small enough to t
down fox and rat burrows in order to ush

out the prey. The breed had courage and


the stamina to work all day in all weather.
Owners often left the dogs to nd their own
food, so the Border Terrier developed a
strong hunting drive.
This breed still excels in hunting and
hunting trials, as well as in agility and
obedience contests. It has also become a
popular pet, since it tends to be more
cooperative and more tolerant of small
children and of other dogs than other
terriers. It needs daily outlets for its energy,
or it may become unhappy and destructive.
Short, strong
muzzle

High-set,
drop ears

White mark
on chest

Short,
thick tail

Dense coat
has thick
undercoat

Grizzle and tan

Tan hair on legs

207

Typical terrier
Terriers should be ready to spring into
action at the slightest provocation.
The Wire Fox Terrier here shows this
alertness as he playfully grapples with
a turned on hose.

Fox Terrier
HEIGHT
Up to 15in
(39cm)

WEIGHT
Up to 18lb
(8kg)

LIFE SPAN
10 years

TINTIN AND SNOWY


In the comic-book series The Adventures of
Tintin, the hero Tintins best friend is Snowy the
dog. Tintins creator, Herg, modeled Snowy on
a Wire Fox Terrier because this breed was
popular at the time he was writing. He was also
inspired by a Wire Fox Terrier belonging to the
owner of a restaurant that he frequented. Snowy
is a comic-book character but has the cleverness
to rescue his master from danger and the
courage to take on enemies much bigger than
himselfthe quintessential terrier.

White
May have tan or black markings.

This cheerful, affectionate, and fun-loving dog is good


with children and enjoys long walks in the country
An energetic and sometimes vocal
companion, the Fox Terrier from England
was originally kept to kill vermin, hunt
rabbits, and tackle foxes that had been run
to ground. Its bold and fearless nature and
love of digging make early socialization
and training essential to prevent
snappiness and curb any
tendency to dig. If this is
achieved, the Fox Terrier
makes a wonderful family pet
that loves to play and readily
reciprocates any affection
it receives.
The Wire Fox Terriers coat
needs regular grooming and
plucking to remove any shed

hair, and more extensive stripping three


or four times a year. The coat should
never be clipped, because this does not
remove shed hair and may cause irritation,
and also leads to deterioration in coat
texture and color. Much rarer than
its wire-haired cousin, the Smooth
Fox Terriers shorter coat requires
less grooming.
The Fox Terrier is ancestral to
several other dog breeds, including
the Toy Fox Terrier (see p.210), the
Brazilian Terrier (see p.210),
the Rat Terrier (see p.212), the
Parson Jack Russell Terrier (see
p.194), and the Jack Russell
Terrier (see p.196).

PUPPY
Small, V-shaped,
semierect ears

Very
slight stop

Head and muzzle


of equal length
Wedgeshaped head

Tail carried
erect

Circular,
dark eyes

White with
black and
tan markings

Tan
markings

Coat has
black ecks

Black
patch
Black
nose

Chest deep
but not
broad

Long,
powerful thighs

Wiry coat
with white
predominant

WIRE FOX TERRIER

Round,
compact feet

SMOOTH FOX
TERRIER

209

C ATALOG OF BREEDS | TERRIERS

Toy Fox Terrier

Japanese Terrier
HEIGHT 1213in (3033cm)
WEIGHT 59lb (24kg)
LIFE SPAN 1214 years

HEIGHT 912in (2330cm)


WEIGHT 57lb (23kg)
LIFE SPAN 1314 years

Black, tan, and white

Also known as the Nippon or Nihon Terrier, this rare breed is


strong and athletic for its size. Its ancestors are thought to include
the English Toy Terrier (opposite) and the now
extinct Toy Bull Terrier. The Japanese Terrier
has been kept as a lapdog, ratter, and retriever,
and it makes an adaptable family pet
as well as a good watchdog.
White with
black markings

Typical black
markings
on head

Also called the American Toy Terrier, this breed is a cross between
the Smooth Fox Terrier (see p.208) and various toy breeds. The
result is a dog that is a good ratter but also familyfriendly. As with all toy breeds, the Toy Fox Terrier
is not recommended as a pet in a home where there
are babies and toddlers, but older
Face predominately
children will enjoy
black with tan
markings
its zest for life.
Docked tail
Erect,
pointed
ears

High-set,
button ears

White and tan


White and black
White, chocolate, and tan

held upright

Round, bright,
dark eyes

Fine-haired,
satiny coat
Small,
black
nose

Short, smooth,
glossy coat

Black spots
on legs

White, black,
and tan

Brazilian Terrier
HEIGHT 1316in (3340cm)
WEIGHT 1522lb (710kg)
LIFE SPAN 1214 years

Triangular,
drop ears

Bred from European terriers crossed with local Brazilian farm dogs, this breed has
marked hunting instincts and is eager to explore and dig as well as track, chase, and
kill rodents. Like its smaller cousin, the Jack Russell Terrier (see p.196), the Brazilian
Terrier needs to know who is boss. It rewards a rm owner with devotion and
obedience and makes a protectiveand vocalwatchdog. Ever active,
it thrives on a long, daily walk, otherwise it becomes restless. When
well trained, it makes an excellent family pet.

Low-set,
short tail

Typical tan
markings
on head
Black
markings

210

Alert
expression

Short, smooth,
predominately
white coat

Tricolor

Deep chest

English Toy Terrier


HEIGHT
1012in
(2530cm)

WEIGHT
79lb
(34kg)

LIFE SPAN
1213 years

RAT PITS
During the Industrial Revolution in England,
using terriers such as the black and tan terriers
to kill rats was a necessity in the fast-growing
towns. For betting men, it also became a sport.
Terriers would be placed in rat pits with a
certain number of rats (as seen in the 19th
century painting, Rat-catching at the Blue Anchor
Tavern, below), and men would bet on how
quickly the dogs could kill all the rats. The idea
was to nd the smallest dog that could kill the
rats in the fastest time. Baiting blood sports were
outlawed in 1835 in the UK, but rat baiting
continued illegally until around 1912.

This perky, friendly, and condent little companion


dog adapts well to either town or country life
The oldest British toy breed, the English
Toy Terrier differs from its larger cousin,
the Manchester Terrier (see p.212), only
in its size and its erect ears. The two have
only been classied as distinct breeds
since the 1920s.
Black and tan terriers have been known in
England since the 16th century, when they
were used to kill rats. The terriers became
popular as town pets in the 18th century.
During Queen Victorias reign a fashion
for breeding them to be increasingly small
severely weakened the breed; however, in
the late 19th century enthusiasts set up more
rigorous standards for
the smaller type.

This type became known as the Miniature


Black and Tan Terrier and from 1960 the
English Toy Terrier (black and tan).
The breed is rare today and is included
on the UK Kennel Clubs list of Vulnerable
Native Breeds.
The English Toy Terrier has the sharply
alert, active nature of the terrier, although it
is perhaps more sensitive than other terriers.
It bonds with its owner and family and makes
a good watchdog; however, it may try to
hunt small pets. Its compact size means that
this breed needs only limited daily exercise
and adapts well to city living.

High-set,
candle-ame ears

Almond-shaped,
dark eyes

Well-dened,
mahogany
tan markings

Mahogany
tan markings
on chest
Jet-black
and tan
Thick, glossy coat
Low-set,
tapering tail,
ends just
above hock
Two inner toes
longer than
outer ones

211

C ATALOG OF BREEDS | TERRIERS

Manchester Terrier
HEIGHT 1516in (3841cm)
WEIGHT 1122lb (510kg)
LIFE SPAN 1314 years

Black and tan

With its sleek good looks, the Manchester Terrier makes


an elegant and lively companion dog, bigger than the related
English Toy Terrier (see p.211). It takes its name from the
weekly rat-killing contests in England that occurred
in the 19th century and at which it
Small, V-shaped,
button ears
excelled. Ruthless with vermin,
it is gentle with its owners.
Slightly
rounded back

Short tail
carried low
Smooth, short,
glossy coat
Black nose

Tan markings
on legs

Rat Terrier
HEIGHT Standard: 1422in (3656cm)
WEIGHT Standard: 1135lb (516kg)
LIFE SPAN 1114 years

Variety of colors
Tan markings are common.

This terrier is a phenomenal rat catcherone dog is reputed


to have caught over 2,500 rats in just seven hours. Popular in the
US, the Rat Terrier was President Theodore Roosevelts choice of
hunting dog. The Miniatureheight range: 814in (2036cm),
weight range: 79lb (34kg)is a good pet;
the Standard suits an energetic owner.
Pear-shaped
head
There are two ear types: erect and button.
Pied

Well arched,
compact
forefeet

American Hairless
Terrier
HEIGHT 1018in (2546cm)
WEIGHT 713lb (36kg)
LIFE SPAN 1213 years

The first hairless Rat Terriers (left) were the result of a genetic
mutation, but were then bred with each other to produce hairless
puppies. Apart from its lack of hair, this is a typical, lively terrier.
It needs a coat in winter to stay
warm and to avoid sunburn in
Round,
summer. Ears may be erect,
expressive
eyes
semierect, or button.
Typical
tan head

Erect ears

Sturdy,
compact body
with tan parts
White feet
STANDARD

212

Any color

Tan freckles
Inquisitive,
alert
expression

Brown nose matches


head coloring

Large, erect
candleame ears
Bicolor
Middle toe
slightly longer
than outer toes

TERRIERS

High-set,
triangular,
drop ears

Patterdale Terrier
HEIGHT 1015in (2538cm)
WEIGHT 1113lb (56kg)
LIFE SPAN 1314 years

Red
Liver or bronze
Coats may be grizzled.

The isolated valleys of the Lake District in the UK


each had their own terrierthis one originates from
the village of Patterdale. It remains popular in the UK
but has gained favor in the US, too. It makes an
excellent hunting companion since
it never gives up on its prey.
There are two coat types:
smooth and broken.

Coarse
topcoat

Black and tan

Black

High-set tail

Head reects its


Staffordshire Bull
Terrier bloodlines
(see p.214)

Eyes set
wide apart
Square-shaped,
long body
Long, strong
forelegs
SMOOTH-COATED

PUPPY

American
Staffordshire Terrier

American Pit
Bull Terrier
HEIGHT 1822in (4656cm)
WEIGHT 3160lb (1427kg)
LIFE SPAN 12 years

Any color
Merle colors discouraged.

The ancestors of the American Pit Bull Terrier were dogs brought
to the US in the 19th century by Irish immigrants. Although bred for
ghting, this breed became much loved as a working dog or family
pet. The breed has lately acquired
Distinctive
a reputation for aggression, which
wrinkles on
forehead
is vigorously refuted
by its supporters.
Muscular,
Short, dense,
glossy coat
Red

HEIGHT 1719in (4348cm)


WEIGHT 5766lb (2630kg)
LIFE SPAN 1016 years

Variety of colors

Developed from the Staffordshire Bull Terrier (see p.214),


this dog was recognized as a separate breed in the US in the
1930s. Apart from being more heavily built than its English
counterpart, the American Staffordshire Terrier
shares all the characteristics of the original
Stafe. It is bold and intelligent and
makes a loyal family pet.

heavy neck
Deep, moderately
wide chest with
small, white markings
High-set,
semierect ears

Prominent cheek
muscles
Powerful,
muscular
thighs

Dark eyes
set low and
wide apart

Blue-fawn

Short, stiff,
shiny coat

213

C ATALOG OF BREEDS | TERRIERS

TERRIERS

Staffordshire Bull Terrier


HEIGHT
1416in
(3641cm)

WEIGHT
2437lb
(1117kg)

LIFE SPAN
1016 years

Variety of colors

JOCK OF THE BUSHVELD

This fearless dog loves children and can achieve high


levels of obedience with correct handling
Originally bred for dogfighting in the 19th
century, the Staffordshire Bull Terrier was
developed in the English Midlands from
crosses between Bulldogs (see p.95) and local
terriers. The resulting dog, rst known as
the Bull and Terrier, was small and agile but
strong, with powerful jaws. Although it had
to show courage and aggression when ghting
in the dog pit, it needed to stay calm when
handled by people. Even when bullbaiting
and other baiting sports were banned
in 1835, clandestine dogghts continued
until the 1920s.
During the 19th century one group of
enthusiasts sought to adapt the Bull and
Terrier dog to create an animal more suitable
for the show ring and family
home. This modied breed,
called the Staffordshire
Bull Terrier, was ofcially
recognized by the UK
Kennel Club in 1935.

PUPPY

Red

The modern Stafe, as it is affectionately


known, is hugely popular in both city and
country. This dog is robust and boisterous,
and possesses legendary courage. Firm
handling and early obedience training are
essential, but given an owner who is an
effective trainer, the Staffordshire Bull
Terrier will be an obedient and rewarding
pet. Unfortunately, in recent years the breed
has gained an unwarranted reputation as
a dangerous dog, which has led to many
being abandoned and ending up in animal
shelters. Although a Staffordshire Bull
Terrier is likely to respond if challenged
by an unfamiliar dog, the breed is typically
friendly and sweet-tempered with people
and has a particular afnity with children.

Jock was a Staffordshire Bull Terrier belonging


to a man named Percy FitzPatrick, who worked
in South Africa as a transport rider with a team
of oxen in the 1880s. Originally the runt of the
litter, Jock (depicted engaging an antelope in
the bronze statue at Jock Safari Lodge, Kruger
National Park, South Africa, below) grew into
a brave, loyal guard and hunter. He and his
owner had many adventures in the bush, which
FitzPatrick recounted as tales for his children.
In 1907 he published the tales as Jock of the
Bushveld, and it is now a classic in South African
childrens literature.

Broad head with


distinct stop

Semierect,
small ears

Dark rims
to eyes
Smooth,
short coat

Darker hair
on muzzle

Almost
straight,
tapering
tail

Powerful,
muscular body

White markings
on feet

Broad chest
with white
markings

Feet turn out slightly


from pasterns

215

C ATALOG OF BREEDS | TERRIERS

Kromfohrlnder
HEIGHT
1518in
(3846cm)

WEIGHT
2035lb
(916kg)

LIFE SPAN
1314 years

RANDOM ORIGINS
The Kromfohrlnder breed originated in the
1940s, from the random mating of a Wire Fox
Terrier female (see p.208) and a stray dog
named Peter that its owner, a woman named
Ilse Schleifenbaum, identied as a Grand
Griffon Venden (see p.144). The resulting
puppies were attractive and uniform in type.
Frau Schleifenbaum decided to breed more of
these dogs, assisted by a man named Otto
Borner. After about ten years the two breeders
were ready to present their animals
at dog shows as an entirely new breed.

This even-tempered, lovable terrier is good with


the entire family but may be shy with strangers
A modern German breed, the
Kromfohrlnder has only been ofcially
recognized since 1955. The breed takes
its name from the Krom Fohr area of
Siegerland, in western Germany, where
it originated. In 1962 a Finnish woman
named Maria kerblom began importing
Kromfohrlnders for breeding in Finland,
and this country has now become the second
center for the breed. The Kromfohrlnder
is still rare, howeverthere are fewer than
1,800 of these dogs in existence worldwide.
The Kromfohrlnders ancestry includes
the Wire Fox Terrier (see p.208) and the
Grand Griffon Venden (see p.144)
as well as random-bred local

German dogs. The result is an attractive,


low-maintenance dog that is eager to please.
From the outset, the breed has been
developed as a family dog.
While wary of strangers, the
Kromfohrlnder is gentle and playful with
familiar people and dogs. It makes a good
watchdog and, like other terriers, is an
excellent rat catcher, although it has less of
the killing instinct typical of terriers. The
breed is easy to train, if rather independentminded, and some dogs have performed
well in agility competitions. There are two
coat types: rough-haired (with a beard)
and smooth-haired.
White blaze with
tan speckles

Typical
symmetrical
head markings

White with
tan patches

Thick coat lying


close to body

Feathering on
upper thighs

SMOOTH-HAIRED

Tan speckling
on legs

ROUGH-HAIRED

216

Triangular,
drop ears

Dandie Dinmont Terrier


HEIGHT 811in (2028cm)
WEIGHT 1824lb (811kg)
LIFE SPAN Up to 13 years

Mustard
May have white chest hair.

This terrier comes from the border country between England


and Scotland, where it was developed to hunt badger and otter.
It was named the Dandie Dinmont Terrier after a character
who owned a similar-looking dog in a novel by Sir Walter
Scott. Fun-loving, sensitive, and intelligent,
Pendant ears
the Dandie Dinmont Terrier thrives
set well back
on love and attention.
Body length greatly

Large, domed head


covered in soft, silky,
light-colored hair
Large, wide-set,
dark hazel eyes

exceeds leg length


Pepper

Long, tapering
tail with
feathering on
underside

Dark bluishblack hair

Lightercolored
lower legs

Miniature Pinscher

Skye Terrier
HEIGHT Up to 10in (2526cm)
WEIGHT 2440lb (1118kg)
LIFE SPAN 1215 years

Cream
Black
Fawn
May have white spot on chest.

A breed from the Western Isles of Scotland, the Skye Terrier


was originally used for fox and badger hunting. With a long,
low-slung body, the Skye Terrier could easily slip into the narrow
underground passages used by its quarry. This elegant little dog
is active, good-spirited, and makes an excellent family pet. The
long coat, characteristic of the breed, can take several years to
grow to its full adult length.
Erect ears
fringed with
long, silky hair

Soft, light gray


hair covers
brown eyes
Long,
feathered
tail

Long, straight
coat parts down
center of back

HEIGHT 1012in (2530cm)


WEIGHT 911lb (45kg)
LIFE SPAN Up to 15 years

Blue and tan


Brown and tan

Bred in Germany and developed from the much larger German


Pinscher (see p.218), this sturdy but graceful dog was once used
as a barnyard rat hunter. The Miniature Pinscher is quick and
lively, moving with a characteristic high-stepping gait.
Perfect for a small home, the breed
has sharp senses that make
it a good watchdog.
Neck arches
slightly

Tail carried high

Straight back
Tapering
muzzle

High-set,
erect ears

Gray

Black
and tan
Short,
smooth coat
Catlike feet
Lighter
patches
on coat

217

C ATALOG OF BREEDS | TERRIERS

Austrian Pinscher

German Pinscher
HEIGHT 1719in (4348cm)
WEIGHT 2435lb (1116kg)
LIFE SPAN 1214 years

HEIGHT 1720in (4250cm)


WEIGHT 2640lb (1218kg)
LIFE SPAN 1214 years

Isabella
Blue

Also known as the Standard Pinscher, this tall terrier started


out as an all-purpose farm dog. It makes a protective guard dog,
but needs to be well trained so that it does not become
overprotective, bark for too long, or behave aggressively
toward other dogs. With the right training
it is gentle and responsive.
Triangular,
drop ears

Russet-gold or brownish yellow


Black and tan

Bred as an all-purpose guard and herding farm dog in its native


Austria, this breed rewards a condent owner with complete loyalty
and devotion. Barking at anything suspicious, it makes an excellent
watchdog for isolated locations, but its
protective instincts
and fearlessness can
Stag-red
lead to aggression.

Tail sweeps
upward
Darkercolored
muzzle
Stag-red
Triangular,
drop ears

Oval,
dark eyes

Strong,
straight legs

White chest
markings

Short, sleek,
thick coat
Short,
round feet

Affenpinscher
HEIGHT 911in (2428cm)
WEIGHT 79lb (34kg)
LIFE SPAN 1012 years

Sometimes called the Black Devil,


the Affenpinscher is among the
oldest of the European toy dogs.
It retains its terrier instincts,
though, and is a brave watchdog
and ratter despite its size. With
its bright, sometimes stubborn
personality, this dog learns
easily but needs to know
who is in charge.
It loves to play
and gets along well
with children
who handle it
considerately.

Domed, broad
forehead
Black

Blunt
muzzle
with wide
nostrils

Lighter,
grayish
beard

Small, round,
dark feet

218

Straight forelegs

Miniature Schnauzer
HEIGHT
1314in
(3336cm)

WEIGHT
1315lb
(67kg)

LIFE SPAN
14 years

White
Black
Black and silver

This cheerful, friendly, fun-loving dog is a reliable


family pet that responds well to training

CREATING A
MINIATURE BREED
The Miniature Schnauzer (below, left) was created
in the 19th century by farmers who wanted a
compact version of the Standard Schnauzer
(below, right) for hunting vermin as well as for
guarding property and livestock. The breeders used
small Standard Schnauzers, thus keeping the
distinctive Schnauzer look and character. They
crossed these dogs with the Affenpinscher
(opposite) and possibly also the Miniature Pinscher
(see p.217) and the Poodle (see p.276) to produce
animals with a compact but strong frame.

The Miniature Schnauzer, like the Giant


Schnauzer, was developed in Germany
from the Standard Schnauzer (see p.45);
it is the most recently created but the most
popular of the three breeds. They derive
their name from one dog named Schnauzer,
who was exhibited at a dog show in 1879.
All Schnauzers have the distinctive
long-bearded muzzle; schnauze means
muzzle in German.
The rst Miniature Schnauzer was
exhibited in 1899, but the breed was not
recognized as distinct from the Standard
Schnauzer until 1933. After World War II
the breed became popular internationally,
especially in the US.

The Miniature Schnauzer was originally


bred by farmers as a ratter, but today it is
most often kept as a companion or a show
animal. It is playful and protective toward
its family and can be a good guard dog.
A lively, tough, intelligent dog, the
Miniature Schnauzer is quick to learn
but strong-minded, and needs rm,
patient training. The breed can live
happily in urban as well as rural homes,
but despite its small size, it needs time to
play off the leash as well as a brisk daily
walk to keep it healthy and happy.

High-set,
semierect ears

Strong, straight
back slopes from
shoulder to tail

Bushy
eyebrows

Salt and
pepper
Powerful muzzle
with lightercolored beard
Legs short
below
hocks

Coarse, wiry coat

Strongly
muscled thighs

219

Multitasking
The German Shorthaired Pointer is one
of various gundog breeds that are skilled
at multitasking and combine several
functions, here pointing to show the
hunter where the prey is located.

GUNDOGS

GUNDOGS
Before the advent of rearms, hunters used dogs to help them locate and chase game. With the
introduction of guns, a different type of dog was required. Gundogs were developed to carry out
specic tasks and to work more closely with the hunters. The breeds fall into several categories
based on the type of work they were bred to perform.

The dogs in the gundog group,


which all hunt by scent, are classied
broadly in three main divisions:
the pointers and setters, which locate
prey; the spaniels, which ush game
out of cover; and the retrievers,
which collect fallen prey and bring
it back to the hunter. Breeds that
combine these functions are known
as HPR (hunt/point/retrieve)
dogs and include the Weimaraner
(see p.248), German Pointer
(see p.245), and the Vizsla
(see p.246).
Pointers have been used as hunting
dogs since the 17th century. They
have the extraordinary ability to
indicate the location of prey by
pointingfreezing into position

with nose, body, and tail aligned.


A pointer remains motionless until
the hunter either ushes out the
game or instructs the dog to do so.
The Pointer (see p.254), which features
in many old sporting portraits
alongside hunting squires and their
bags of game birds, is a classic
example of the type.
Setters also direct attention to
game by freezing. Typically used
to hunt quail, pheasant, and grouse,
these dogs crouch, or set, when
they pick up a scent. Originally,
setters were trained to work with
hunters who caught game with nets
while their dogs prevented the
prey from making an escape on
the ground.

Spaniels drive out, or ush, game birds,


forcing them to take wing into the line
of the guns. They watch where a bird
falls and are usually sent to retrieve it.
This division includes small, silkycoated, long-eared dogs such as the
Springer Spaniel (see p.224) and English
Cocker Spaniel (see p.222), used for
nding game on land, and less familiar
breeds such as the Barbet and the
Wetterhoun, which specialize in
ushing waterbirds.
The retrievers were bred specically
for retrieving waterfowl. In common
with some breeds of the spaniel division,
these gundogs often have waterresistant coats. They are renowned for
their soft mouths, and quickly learn
to carry game without damaging it.

221

C ATALOG OF BREEDS | GUNDOGS

Cocker Spaniel
HEIGHT 1315in (3439cm)
WEIGHT 1531lb (714kg)
LIFE SPAN 1215 years

Pronounced
stop

Any color

With its sweet, playful nature,


the Cocker Spaniel is suited
to life as a pet or a working
gundog; the breed has
speed and stamina and
needs plenty of exercise.
It also has a tendency
toward shyness, so early
and regular socialization
is important.

Conspicuously
rounded head

Low-set ears,
fringed with
long, silky hair

Large,
round eyes
Sturdy,
compact body

Long, wavy
coat

Red
Jet black
Coat with
lighter
underparts

English Cocker Spaniel


HEIGHT 1516in (3841cm)
WEIGHT 2933lb (1315kg)
LIFE SPAN 1215 years

Square muzzle with


moderate ews

Any color
Solid colors should have no white markings.

Originally known as the cocking spaniel and used for ushing woodcock
and grouse, the English Cocker Spaniel is one of the most popular spaniel
breeds. Smaller than the English Springer Spaniel (see p.224), this dog
was developed to work in dense undergrowth. Show dogs are sturdier
and heavier than working dogs, but both make excellent pets.

Ears fringed with


long, wavy hair
Black saddle

Black and white

Coat has
feathering on
chest and legs

Long, silky coat


Feathering on tail

Blue-roan

222

GUNDOGS

Boykin Spaniel

German Spaniel
HEIGHT 1721in (4454cm)
WEIGHT 4055lb (1825kg)
LIFE SPAN 1214 years

HEIGHT 1418in (3646cm)


WEIGHT 2440lb (1118kg)
LIFE SPAN 1416 years

Red
Brown
Red-roan

An excellent retriever, this dog loves the water.


The German Spaniel has masses of stamina and
is happiest working, although long, brisk walks
will keep it content. This breed will live outdoors,
but thrives indoors with a family, and makes
a good working gundog and pet.

Short, ne,
brown coat
on head

Liver
May have white hair
on chest and toes.

The official state dog of South Carolina, the Boykin Spaniel


is a devoted companion and gets on well with other dogs and
children. Its easygoing nature and willingness to work make
it an ideal gundog or pet for an active family. The Boykin
Spaniels curly coat requires regular grooming.
Short hair
on face

Dark chocolate

Brown-roan
Brown saddle

Traditionally
docked tail

Distinctive
oval, brown
eyes

Medium-brown
eyes with kind
expression

Curly
coat

Lightly
feathered
drop ears

Dense, wavy coat

Compact,
round feet

Spoon-shaped
feet

Field Spaniel
HEIGHT 1718in (4446cm)
WEIGHT 4055lb (1825kg)
LIFE SPAN 1012 years

Black
Roan
May have tan markings.

Originally a cross between the Sussex Spaniel (see p.226) and the English
Cocker Spaniel (opposite), the Field Spaniel was used for retrieving from
water and heavy cover. This docile but high-energy, medium-sized gundog
needs to be kept busy and makes the perfect hunting companion
for an active family living in the country.

Moderate stop

Liver-colored
nose
Long body relative
to leg length

Liver

Light feathering on
underside of tail

White
marking
on chest

Moderately
long coat
Feathering on
back of legs

223

C ATALOG OF BREEDS | GUNDOGS

English Springer Spaniel


HEIGHT
1822in
(4656cm)

WEIGHT
4051lb
(1823kg)

LIFE SPAN
1214 years

Black and white


May have tan markings.

Full of enthusiasm and affection, this sociable companion is


an excellent working dog
This classic gundog is so-called because it
was originally used to spring gamestartle
birds into the air. Spaniels used as gundogs
were once classied according to their size:
the larger dogs (called Springers, see
pp.22426) were used for ushing game
birds, and the smaller ones (called Cockers,
see p.222) for hunting woodcock. Until the
beginning of the 20th century the English
Springer Spaniel was not recognized as an
ofcial breed, although it had developed into
a distinct type known as the Norfolk Spaniel.
The English Springer Spaniel will work
with hunters in the eld all day, undeterred
by rough terrain or adverse weather
conditions, even jumping into freezing water
when necessary. This breed is a popular
choice with game shooters but its friendly,
obedient disposition makes it an excellent
family dog, too. It likes company, including
children, other dogs, and the household cat.
If left alone for too long, it may resort to
excessive barking. A nonworking dog needs
long, energetic daily walks and will enjoy
having a stream to splash in, mud to roll in,
or toys thrown for it to retrieve. This breed
is bright and willing to learn, and will
respond to calm authority. It is highly
sensitive, so giving harsh or loud commands

is likely to be counterproductive. The English


Springer Spaniels love of the outdoors means
that it needs weekly grooming to prevent its
thick coat from becoming matted and dirty,
and regular trimming, especially of the long
feathering on the ears and legs.
There are two types of English Springer
Spaniel: working and show. Dogs bred
specically to work in the eld tend to have
their tails docked and be slightly smaller
and of lighter build than dogs produced
for showing. Both types make equally
good companions.

Well feathered tail,


carried below
level of back

PUPPY

SNIFFER DOGS
Although traditionally bred for hunting, the English
Springer Spaniel is now also familiar as a sniffer
dog (right), used to detect drugs, explosives,
money, and even people. The breeds highly acute
sense of smell enables it to detect the tiniest traces
of explosives, or the smell of drugs in a persons
sweat. The English Springer Spaniel has the speed
and energy to search large areas quickly; in
addition, it is compact and agile enough to
work in small spaces such as vehicle interiors.

224

Liver freckling on legs

GUNDOGS

Pronounced stop

Pendant ears
set at eye level

Weather-resistant,
thick, wavy coat

Liver
and white

Heavily
feathered chest

Almond-shaped,
dark hazel eyes
express kind nature

Body moderately
feathered all over

Rounded,
compact feet

225

C ATALOG OF BREEDS | GUNDOGS

Welsh Springer Spaniel


Finer head than English
Springer Spaniel (see p.224)

HEIGHT 1819in (4648cm)


WEIGHT 3551lb (1623kg)
LIFE SPAN 1215 years

A close cousin of the English Springer Spaniel (see p.224) and the English
Cocker Spaniel (see p.222), this medium-sized Welsh gundog has a jolly
disposition and makes a ne family dog and hunting companion. It is
inclined to wander, so early and consistent training is imperative.

Low-set, lightly
feathered, vineleaf-shaped ears

Red and
white

Long,
muscular neck

Brown nose

Feathering
on chest

Round,
catlike feet

Naturally straight,
soft coat

Sussex Spaniel
HEIGHT 1516in (3841cm)
WEIGHT 4051lb (1823kg)
LIFE SPAN 1215 years

Although active by nature, this English gundog from Sussex


will adapt to life in a smaller household, providing it is exercised
sufciently. Unlike other gundogs, the Sussex Spaniel will bark
while workinga trait frowned upon in all other gundog
breeds; another distinctive characteristic is the rolling
action to its gait.

Hazel eyes under


wrinkled brow
Shorter hair
on face

Long, rich coat

Pendant ears
covered with
long, silky hair
Feathering
on chest
Golden-liver

Body length exceeds


leg length

226

Round feet
with feathering
between toes

Clumber Spaniel
HEIGHT
1720in
(4351cm)

WEIGHT
5575lb
(2534kg)

LIFE SPAN
1012 years

RETURN TO WORK
The Clumber Spaniel (shown in an engraving
from the late 19th century, below) almost
disappeared as a working gundog, but since
the 1980s shooting enthusiasts in the UK have
rediscovered the breed. Although the Clumber
Spaniel is slower than other spaniels and may
take longer to mature and to train, it is a quiet and
thorough worker in all conditions. It can penetrate
thick and thorny undergrowth with little difculty,
copes well with water, and can detect the most
subtle of scents.

This big, good-tempered, easy-going dog enjoys


family life and space in a country home
The Clumber Spaniel takes its name from
Clumber Park in Nottinghamshire, in the
English Midlands, home of the Duke of
Newcastle. Various ancestors for this breed
have been suggested, including the old
British Blenheim Spaniel, the now-extinct
Alpine Spaniel, and the Basset Hound
(see pp.14647). In the late 18th century
the second Duke of Newcastle and his
gamekeeper bred the rst dogs recognized
as the modern Clumber Spaniel.
During the 19th and early 20th centuries
the Clumber Spaniel was a favorite with the
British royal familyrst Prince Albert
(consort of Queen Victoria) and then kings

Edward VII and George V, who bred them


at their Sandringham estate in Norfolk.
After World War I, however, the breeds
numbers declined. It is still uncommon
today, and it is included on the UK Kennel
Clubs list of Vulnerable Native Breeds.
Muscular and low to the ground, this
breed is the most solidly built of all the
spaniels. Its calm, steady nature has made
it a beloved pet and show animal, but there
is a resurgence of interest in using it for
hunting. Gentle and well behaved, the
Clumber Spaniel is easy to train. The breed
can be sensitive to heat and needs protection
from warm weather.

Broad, deep muzzle


with well-dened stop
Broad head

Dark amber eyes

Heavy-boned,
rm body, low
to the ground
Large, drop ears

Long, plain coat with


orange markings

White

Well feathered
tail

Wide,
deep
chest

Short legs

Large,
round feet

227

C ATALOG OF BREEDS | GUNDOGS

Smoother
hair on face

Irish Water Spaniel


HEIGHT 2023in (5158cm)
WEIGHT 4466lb (2030kg)
LIFE SPAN 1012 years

This tireless dog is an ideal companion for hikers. Its dark


liver coat is virtually waterproof, and the breeds enthusiasm for
plunging into ice-cold water earned it the nickname of Bogdog.
Although gentle and faithful, it is
slow to mature and can be
Nose matches
headstrong, so needs thorough
coat color
training when young.
Naturally oily,
dense coat

Broad, level back

Smooth hair
on throat forms
V-shaped patch

Coat forms
dense ringlets

Smooth tail
except at base

Puce-liver

Large, round feet


well covered
with hair

Portuguese Water Dog


HEIGHT 1722in (4357cm)
WEIGHT 3555lb (1625kg)
LIFE SPAN 1014 years

White
Brown
Black and white

Brown and white


Black and brown dogs may
have white markings.

Although classified as a gundog, the Portugese Water Dog


was used to retrieve shermens nets as often as hunters
game. The breeds adaptability springs from a lively
mind and desire to please, but if not kept busy it can
be destructive. There are two coat types: long and
wavy or short and curly.

Curved tail with


plume at tip

Round eyes
set well apart
Hindquarters
clipped for work
and showing

Black
Round
feet

228

WAVYCOATED

GUNDOGS

American Water Spaniel


HEIGHT 1518in (3845cm)
WEIGHT 2646lb (1221kg)
LIFE SPAN 1012 years

Chocolate
May have a few white hairs
on chest and toes.

Light brown eyes

Originally bred as an all-round hunting and water dog in the Great Lakes
region, the American Water Spaniels moderate size and lean build allowed it to
work from boats as well as on shore. The breed is still used to ush and retrieve
waterfowl, but also makes an easygoing companion for an active family. Its
dense, curly coat is inherited from ancestors that include
the Irish Water Spaniel (opposite) and the
Moderate
Curly Coated Retriever (see p.262).
feathering
Some dogs have a less tightly curled
along tail
coat, called the Marcel coat.

Broad head

Liver

Ears
covered
with curly
hair

Smooth
hair on
face

Moderately
feathered legs

ADULT AND PUPPY

Poodle

French Water Dog


HEIGHT 2126in (5365cm)
WEIGHT 3560lb (1627kg)
LIFE SPAN 1214 years

HEIGHT Over 15in (38cm)


WEIGHT 4671lb (2132kg)
LIFE SPAN 1013 years

Variety of colors

One of Europes oldest water dogs, with ancestors dating back


to the Middle Ages, the French Water Dog has contributed to
many other breeds. Its coat is perfect protection for a working
dog but its high maintenance may be one reason why this breed
is no longer popular, despite its tolerant, friendly attitude to
children and to other dogs.
Long woolly,
curly coat

Face profusely
covered with hair

Low-set, drop ears


covered by long hair

Any solid color

Claimed by France but probably from Germany, this breed was


originally a water dog, and the standard size remains closest to those
roots. It is popular for crossbreeding because it is robust, clever, and
good-tempered. A simple all-over clipping is easiest to maintain.
Black

Head carried high

Profuse,
dense,
curly coat
Long, wide,
pendant ears

Tail with
slight
hook
at tip

Almond-shaped,
dark eyes

Solid black

Strong,
chiseled face
and jaw

Gray
hairs
on chin
Round,
broad feet

Small, oval
feet with
arched toes

229

C ATALOG OF BREEDS | GUNDOGS

Corded Poodle
HEIGHT 924in (2460cm)
WEIGHT 4671lb (2132kg)
LIFE SPAN 1013 years

Any color
Long, elegant,
narrow head

Like other poodles, Corded Poodles have been bred from separate
lines of the well-known Poodle (see p.229) for many years but as yet
are not recognized as a breed in their own right. Their kind of cording
is more often found on herding breeds, offering protection against
harsh weather and predators. Coats are corded with a little
encouragement and are fairly easy to look after.

Level back

Muzzle has
straight bridge
Corded
coat

Black
Hindquarters
clipped

White

Fine, dense,
corded coat

Frisian Water Dog


HEIGHT 2223in (5559cm)
WEIGHT 3344lb (1520kg)
LIFE SPAN 1213 years

Rounded top
to head

Dark brown

Also known as the Dutch Spaniel or Wetterhoun,


this breed was originally used by shermen to
control otters. It is still used for ushing and
retrieving, but also as a guard and farm
dog. Its independent, slightly suspicious
character makes it unsuitable for city
living, but it is a reliable and rugged
dog for a rural home.

Long tail curled


into a ring

Low-set ears
hang at
against head

Black
Round, arched feet

White chest markings

230

Lagotto Romagnolo
HEIGHT
1619in
(4148cm)

LIFE SPAN
1214 years

WEIGHT
2435lb
(1116kg)

Orange
Roan
Orange and roan coats may have a brown mask.

This affectionate dog makes a good pet but can be


boisterous so is best suited to a country life
Known in its native Italy since at least the
Middle Ages, dogs of this type are thought
to be the ancestor of all the water dog
breeds. Originally, the Lagotto Romagnolo
worked as a retriever in the marshland of
Romagna, northern Italy; its name is Italian
for lake (or water) dog of Romagna. From
the late 19th century when the marshes
were drainedand as a result the ocks
of waterfowl dwindled the breed was found
a new job digging for trufes.
By the mid-20th century the Lagotto
Romagnolo had become a specialized trufe
hound. However, it had been extensively
crossed with other breeds, and by the 1970s

Curly coat

FROM DUCKS TO TRUFFLES

there were very few purebred dogs left.


A group of enthusiasts stepped in to save
and restore the breed, and it was ofcially
recognized by the FCI in 1995.
Today the Lagotto Romagnolo is bred
as often for companionship as for work.
It makes an affectionate family pet as well
as an effective guard dog. This breed is
good-natured and easy to train. It likes
to be kept busy with plenty of walks and
opportunities for swimming and digging.
Its characteristic curly coat needs weekly
combing and annual clipping.

For centuries the peasants of the Romagna


region used the Lagotto Romagnolo for hunting
waterfowl from their at-bottomed boats, and
a few dogs still do this work. The breed is the
ultimate water dog. It is an excellent swimmer,
aided by webbing between its toes, and its curly
double coat enables it to work for hours in cold
water. It still retains its swimming and retrieving
instincts. In addition, it has a highly developed
sense of smell and strong digging drive, making
it ideally suited to being trained for trufe
hunting (below).

Moderately large,
triangular, drop ears
with rounded tips
Liver-colored
nose

Deep chest

Off-white
Brown

White with
brown markings

Rounded,
compact feet

Woolly coat
forms tight
ringlets

231

C ATALOG OF BREEDS | GUNDOGS

Spanish Water Dog


HEIGHT
1620in
(4050cm)

WEIGHT
3149lb
(1422kg)

LIFE SPAN
1014 years

White
Brown

Black

This adaptable working dog with a no-nonsense attitude can


be stubborn, but if well trained it makes a good companion
This distinctive breed has had a variety
of roles and names in its homeland, where
it is now called the Perro de Agua Espaol.
Records show that Water Dogs with woolly
coats have existed in Spain since 1110 CE .
Their origins are unknown, but it is thought
that merchants from North Africa or Turkey
may have brought this type of dog to
Andalusia. Three separate strains developed
in rural Spain: a smaller type in northern
Spain; a type with a long, corded coat in the
marshes of western Andalusia; and a larger
dog in the southern Andalusian mountains.
In the 18th century the Spanish Water
Dog was employed to herd sheep on an
annual migration from the south of Spain
to the north and back again in search of
fresh pastures. The breed was also used
for hunting, especially in water. In addition,
the dogs worked in Spanish ports, traveling
with shermen in their boats and towing
ropes to help bring incoming boats to shore.
Today the Spanish Water Dog has
become more unied by a standard size
and coat type. Until the 1980s it was little
known outside southern Spain, and it
remains rare today, although efforts are
being made to promote the breed.

GAINING RECOGNITION
The recent history of the Spanish Water Dog
began in 1980 when Antonio Perez recognized
a type of dog that he knew well at a dog show
in Malaga. It was referred to as an Andalusian
and Perez asked show organizers, Santiago
Montesinos and David Salamanca, why it was
not considered a breed. They too were familiar
with the dog and agreed to help Perez get it
recognized. In 1983 a breed standard was drawn
up, and by 1985 about 40 Spanish Water Dogs
had been registered. The FCI nally ofcially
recognized it as a breed in 1999.

232

It is still used as a working dog, as well as


being employed in search and rescue work
and as a sniffer dog. The Spanish Water
Dog is a generally sensible companion but
can be impatient with children. The coat
should never be brushed but may be
bathed as necessary and shorn
once a year.

Black
and white

PUPPY

Tail barely
reaches hocks

GUNDOGS

Back slopes gently


down toward tail

Woolly coat
forms cords
if left unclipped

Brown and white

Brown nose matches


color of coat

Light chest
markings
Legs slightly shorter
than body length

Round feet
covered
in hair

233

C ATALOG OF BREEDS | GUNDOGS

Brittany
HEIGHT
1920in
(4751cm)

WEIGHT
3140lb
(1418kg)

LIFE SPAN
1214 years

THE BRITISH CONNECTION


The Brittany dog breed, shown below in
a French print from 1907, bears a striking
resemblance to the Welsh Springer Spaniel
(see p.226) and it is possible that there was
some crossing between the two. From the
mid-19th century Brittany dogs were being
crossed with spaniels and English Setters (see
p.241) brought over by English huntsmen.
Since quarantine laws were already in place,
English hunters simply left their dogs in France
at the end of the hunting season and some of
them were mated with French dogs.

Liver and white


Black, tan, and white
Black and white
Colors may be merged and not clearly dened (roan).

This adaptable and reliable dog is good with children


and an ideal companion for an active, rural owner
Formerly known as the Brittany Spaniel,
and as the Epagneul Breton in its native
France, this breed is now generally referred
to simply as the Brittany, and its hunting
style is more like that of a pointer or setter
(focused on locating game) than a spaniel
(which is used to ush out quarry). This
quick, agile gundog is used for hunting
birds and certain other quarry, such as
rabbits; it can retrieve game but is best at
simply locating game birds.
A long-established type of hunting
dog, the Brittany is named for the region
of northwest France where it originated.
The rst recognizable Brittany types

are shown in paintings and tapestries


dating from the 17th century. The
dog became popular with the French
nobilityand its obedience, together
with its skill at pointing and retrieving,
also made it a useful dog for poachers.
The breed was ofcially recognized in
France in 1907.
Today the Brittany is popular both
as a sporting dog and as a good-natured,
gentle family companion. It is an energetic
breed needing plenty of exercise as well as
mentally challenging activity, so is more
suited to rural homes. Some Brittanys are
born tail-less or bobtailed.

Triangular,
drop ears

Dense, fairly ne,


slightly wavy coat

Muzzle tapered
but not pointed

Orange
and white

Oval,
dark eyes

Orange
ecking

High-set
tail carried
just below
back level

Feathering
on forelegs

Compact,
round feet

234

GUNDOGS

Large Munsterlander
HEIGHT 2326in (5865cm)
WEIGHT 6568lb (2931kg)
LIFE SPAN 1213 years

The Grosser Munsterlander, as it is called in Germany, is more


closely related to the German Pointer (see p.244) than the Small
Munsterlander (below). It is slow to mature, but makes a
calm, highly trainable, and versatile gundog. It positively
thrives on close human company and is good with children.
Solid, black head

Black, white,
and roan

Black
mantle

White hair at
tip of snout

Long, dense
coat provides
insulation

White with
black eckling
(blue roan)

Legs are well


feathered

Small Munsterlander
HEIGHT 2021in (5254cm)
WEIGHT 4060lb (1827kg)
LIFE SPAN 1314 years

One German name for the breed,


Heidewachtel or heath quail dog,
describes this dogs rst purpose
of ushing game birds. Although
it is a cheerful and affectionate
companion, hunters quickly snap
up almost all of the small numbers
that are bred each year. Despite
its name, this breed is not
directly related to the Large
Munsterlander (above).

White blaze
on head

Brown
and white

Well feathered
broad ears

Silky
coat

Medium-length,
feathered tail

White legs
with brown
mottling

235

C ATALOG OF BREEDS | GUNDOGS

Pont-Audemer Spaniel
HEIGHT
2023in
(5158cm)

WEIGHT
4053lb
(1824kg)

LIFE SPAN
1214 years

Brown

This engaging breed is gentle and relaxed in the home


but loves open spaces so is not well suited to city life
This rare French pointer and retriever
is a specialist at hunting in water and
swampland. The breed is believed to have
originated in the 19th century in the marshy
Pont-Audemer region of Normandy, in
northwest France. It is thought that some
of the dogs at that time were crossed with
British dogs brought over by English
huntsmen and left in France at the end of
the hunting season. Many people consider
that the breed also includes the Irish Water
Spaniel (see p.228) in its early history.
During the 20th century the numbers
of these dogs fell so low that concerted
efforts had to be made to rescue the breed.
It survived in small numbers and is still
mainly used for hunting today. The
Pont-Audemer Spaniel was traditionally
used for ushing small waterfowl. However,

it was also trained to be an all-purpose


gundog that could point and retrieve, too.
While its ancestry predisposes it to working
in water, it can also work in woodland and
thick undergrowth to hunt rabbit, hare,
and pheasant.
Pont-Audemer Spaniels are not often kept
purely as pets, but do make amiable family
dogs. Its happy, amusing character has
earned it the nickname the little clown of
the marshes. It ideally needs a rural home
with plenty of space to run freely. The curly,
rufed-looking coat is not particularly
difcult to maintain, although it does need
to be brushed once or twice a week.

A BREED IN CRISIS
The Pont-Audemer Spaniel (seen below in a
French print from 1907) has never been wellknown, even in its native France, and by the end
of the 19th century its numbers were declining.
Breeders worked to revive the breed, but by the
1940s it was almost extinct. In 1949, to relieve
concerns about inbreeding, crosses were made
with the Irish Water Spaniel, but numbers still
remained very low. In 1980 the breed society for
the Pont-Audemer Spaniel combined with the
societies for the Picardy Spaniel (see p.239) and
Blue Picardy Spaniel (see p.239) to make a united
effort to save all three breeds from extinction.

236

Tail slightly
curved with
lighter-colored tip

GUNDOGS
Rounded skull with
topknot of curly hair

Drop ears covered


with long, silky hair

Brown and
gray mottled
Long, slightly
pointed muzzle

Brown patch

Deep, broad chest


reaches elbows

Small, dark
amber eyes

Curly, disheveledlooking coat

Round feet with


long, curly hair
between toes

237

C ATALOG OF BREEDS | GUNDOGS

Kooikerhondje
HEIGHT
1416in
(3540cm)

WEIGHT
2024lb
(911kg)

LIFE SPAN
1213 years

FOILING AN ASSASSIN
In the 17th century Dutch masters depicted
similar dogs to the Kooikerhondje in paintings
of family groups, such as Jan Steens painting The
Way You Hear It Is the Way You Sing It (below).
Kooikerhondjes were well regarded as loyal and
affectionate companions, and one dog named
Kuntze is accredited with saving the life of Prince
William II of Orange (162650). One night
during the war between Holland and Spain,
Kuntze woke William to warn him of intruders
and saved him from being assassinated.
From that day on the grateful prince kept
a Kooikerhondje by his side.

This cheerful, energetic dog makes a friendly pet, but its


love of open spaces means it is not suited to city life
This Dutch breed goes by several names,
including Kooikerhondje and Dutch Decoy
Spaniel, which describe its unusual role. The
Kooikerhondje was traditionally used for
hunting ducks and other waterfowl. Romping
and waving its aglike tail, never barking, it
would attract the attention of waterfowl and
lure them into a tunnel-shaped trap on the
water, called a kooi in Dutch. Hunters could
then catch the bird alive.
Dogs of this type have existed since
at least the 16th century, but by the 1940s
the Kooikerhondje had become almost
extinct. A noblewoman named Baroness van

Drop ears
covered in
long, silky hair

Hardenbroek van Ammerstol rescued and


restored the breed. Today the Kooikerhondje
remains rare, but is becoming more popular
in Europe and North America. The dog
continues to perform its traditional task of
luring waterfowl, but is now used mostly by
conservationists working to tag and release
birds. Some Kooikerhondjes have also been
trained for search and rescue work. The
breed makes a playful, good-natured family
dog, although it is perhaps too sensitive for
life with young or boisterous children. It is
dedicated to its owners but can be aloof
toward strangers.

Alert, almond-shaped,
deep brown eyes

Shorter hair
on face

Well feathered
tail

Long hair
on neck
forms ruff

Orange-red
patches on
pure white

Sleek, slightly
wavy coat

Feathering
on front legs
Small, harelike feet

238

White blaze
on face

GUNDOGS

Drentsche Partridge Dog

Frisian Pointing Dog


HEIGHT 2021in (5053cm)
WEIGHT 4255lb (1925kg)
LIFE SPAN 1214 years

Orange with white markings

Bred by farmers, this dogalso known as the Stabyhoun


tracks, points, and retrieves alongside hunters. It makes an active
and even-tempered family companion, and is excellent with
children. This breed, despite efforts to improve its numbers,
remains rare even in its native Netherlands.

HEIGHT 2225in (5563cm)


WEIGHT 4455lb (2025kg)
LIFE SPAN 1213 years

Somewhere between a pointer and a retriever, the Drentsche


Partridge Dog, or Patrijshond, is a typically versatile European
hunting dog related to the Small Mnsterlnder (see p.235) and
the French Spaniel (see p.240). This Dutch breed is a reliable
and relaxed family companion as long as it gets enough activity.
Drop ears covered
with long, silky hair

White with
brown markings

Long, straight,
smooth coat

Black with
white markings
Black
ticking

Pronounced
stop

Oval,
amber eyes
Wavy coat

Well feathered tail


Feathering
on legs

Brown spotting
on legs

Blue Picardy Spaniel

Picardy Spaniel
HEIGHT 2224in (5560cm)
WEIGHT 4455lb (2025kg)
LIFE SPAN 1214 years

HEIGHT 2224in (5760cm)


WEIGHT 4446lb (2021kg)
LIFE SPAN 1113 years

One of the oldest spaniel breeds, the Picardy Spaniel is still


used in France to ush birds in woodland and wetland areas. An
enthusiastic swimmer, it makes a placid, reliable, and affectionate
family dog that will even adapt to city life if given a reasonable
amount of exercise.

Mainly used as a water dog for pointing and retrieving snipe


in marshland, this quiet and easy-going breed is a funloving companion and good with children. The Blue Picardy
Spaniels friendly temperament, however, makes it of little
use for guarding.

Long, low-set,
drop ears

Gray-black
speckled with
black patches

Back slopes down


toward tail

Long, drop ears


are covered with
wavy hair

Tail about
hock length

Curved
tail with
feathering

Dense coat
has slight
wave

Gray mottled
with brown
patches
Squarely
built body

Rich tan
markings

Lighter-colored
blaze

Oval head

Gray and black


speckling
creates blue
shading

Tight, round
feet have
plenty of hair
between toes

239

C ATALOG OF BREEDS | GUNDOGS

Irish Red and


White Setter

French Spaniel
HEIGHT 2224in (5561cm)
WEIGHT 4455lb (2025kg)
LIFE SPAN 1214 years

In its native land the French Spaniel is claimed to be the original


of all hunting spaniels. It is still used for hunting at home and
abroad, but because it is level-headed and not inclined to bark,
it also makes a good city dog, as long as it is given enough
exercise and affection.
Straight top
to muzzle
Tail curves
upward
toward tip

Silky
coat

Pendant ears
set quite far
back on head

HEIGHT 2527in (6469cm)


WEIGHT 5575lb (2534kg)
LIFE SPAN 1213 years

This setter has the red and white coloring that is


typical of many hunting dogs, but today this dog is more
often kept for company. Long overshadowed by the
related Irish Setter (see p.242), this intelligent if
impulsive breed is slowly gaining the popularity it
deserves. Cheerful and energetic, it thrives on
Clear, crisp
attention and rm guidance.
colored areas

Broad,
domed
head

Red and
white

Large, oval
eyes match
brown of coat

Ears level with


eyes and set
well back

White with
brown
markings

Brown spotting
on chest
Red
mottling
on face

Strong body
with deep chest

Gordon Setter

Deep head
with slightly
rounded skull

HEIGHT 2426in (6266cm)


WEIGHT 5766lb (2630kg)
LIFE SPAN 1213 years

Originally employed in Scotland to track game birds and then freeze


once it had located them, changes in hunting fashions have seen this breed
move from eld to reside. It brings with it a level-headed and loyal nature,
but also a need for vigorous daily exercise and a good deal of space.

Fine,
wavy coat

Lean, long neck


Coal black

Shiny coat

Fringe on
belly may
extend to
chest and
throat
Full feathering on
long, muscular thighs

240

Typical chestnutred markings


on feet and
lower legs

English Setter
HEIGHT
2425in
(6164cm)

WEIGHT
5566lb
(2530kg)

LIFE SPAN
1213 years

EDWARD LAVERACK
In the 19th century breeder Edward Laverack
transformed the traditional English Setter. From
two dogs, which he obtained in 1825, Laverack
developed a distinct strain that set game birds
in a more upright stance than was usual, and
that was taller, more lightly built, and more
heavily feathered than the earlier dogs.
Laveracks dogs formed the basis of the breed
standard drawn up in the 1870s. The trading
card from around 1890 (below) shows an early
example of the English Setter.

Orange or lemon belton


Liver belton
Liver beltons may have tan markings.

The perfect country-house dog in both looks and


character, this tireless breed loves wide open spaces
The oldest of the Setter dogs, which date
back at least 400 years, this breed takes its
name from its habit of settingstopping and
facing the game it has locatedthat enables
the hunter to nd the animal. The English
Setters ancestors probably included the
English Springer Spaniel (see pp.22425),
the Spanish Pointer, and large Water
Spaniels. The result was a dog that was
skilled in tracking and nding game
on open moorland.
The modern breed was founded by two
men. Edward Laverack developed the pure
English Setter in the 1820s. In the late 19th
century R. Purcell Llewellin used some of

the Laverack dogs to breed a distinct


strain for eld work. His dogs differed
in appearance from those of Laveracks
and some people referred to Llewellin
setters as a separate breed.
The English Setter is still worked today,
although different bloodlines are used for
hunting and the show ring. The hunting
dogs have slightly shorter legs than their
Irish and Scottish cousins. An elegant dog,
the English Setter has a calm, reliable nature,
making it a good family dog. However, it
does need lots of exercise and space to run.
Show dogs have a longer, more wavy coat
than the eld type.

Low-set,
pendant ears
Square muzzle
with slightly
pendulous ews
Blue belton

Well feathered tail

Light tan
markings on face

241

C ATALOG OF BREEDS | GUNDOGS

GUNDOGS

Irish Setter
HEIGHT
2527in
(6469cm)

WEIGHT
6071lb
(2732kg)

BIG RED

LIFE SPAN
1213 years

This exuberant, enthusiastic dog is both glamorous


and affectionate but needs a patient and active owner
Hunting dogs called settersdogs that
would crouch, or set, near game birds to
show the birds locationwere rst
mentioned in English texts of the late 16th
to early 17th century and were recognized as
a distinct type in the 18th century. The Irish
Setter was created in the 18th century,
possibly from crosses of breeds including the
English Setter (see p.241), the Gordon Setter
(see p.240), and the Irish Water Spaniel (see
p.228), as well as other spaniels and
pointers. Bred for hunting birds in upland
areas, it was valued for its speed, efciency,
and keen nose.
The rst dogs were red
and white like todays Irish
Red and White Setter (see
p.240), but during the 19th
century the deep, rich red

color became the standard for the Irish


Setter. Even now, however, some dogs are
born with small, white markings.
By the 1850s the red Irish Setter had
spread through Ireland and the UK, and
began to be seen in the show ring. A male
named Palmerston, born in 1862, was the
rst champion show and stud dog and is the
ancestor of most modern Irish setters.
Today the breed is mainly a show dog or a
companion, but some breeders still produce
dogs for working ability as well as looks.
The Irish Setter makes a striking,
affectionate pet with a love of children and
other dogs and a great sense of fun. Slow
to mature, it requires rm training from
an early age. The breed needs a home
where it will have plenty of daily exercise,
including chances to run freely.

In North America the Irish Setters free spirit


was made famous by the 1962 Disney lm Big
Red. Set in Canada, the lm tells of a champion
show dog, Big Red, who makes friends with
an orphan boy called Ren. Big Red becomes
more interested in hunting with Ren than
being a good show dog, and as a result his
owner gets rid of him. Big Red escapes across
country and is reunited with Ren when the
two friends heroically save the dogs owner
from a cougar.

Almond-shaped
eyes with kind
expression

Low-set ears hang close


to head in neat folds

PUPPY

Red

Soft, silky coat

Deep, square
muzzle

Deep,
narrow chest
Heavily feathered
tail

Feathering on
back of forelegs

243

C ATALOG OF BREEDS | GUNDOGS

Nova Scotia Duck


Tolling Retriever
HEIGHT
1821in
(4553cm)

WEIGHT
3751lb
(1723kg)

LIFE SPAN
1213 years

CUNNING AS A FOX
Tolling is naturally practiced by foxes. One or
two foxes will tantalize waterfowl by playing
near them at the waterside. The birds will come
closer to drive the foxes away and sometimes
stray close enough for the foxes to catch them.
Native Americans copied this trick by pulling
a fox pelt back and forth on a rope to catch
ducks. Europeans bred red-coated dogs
resembling foxes and trained them to act in
the same way. The foxlike coloring and the
behavior (below) can be seen in the Nova
Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever.

This good-natured, attractive gundog adapts well


to family life if given sufcient physical activity
This Canadian breed, also known as
the Toller, takes its name from its role in
an unusual form of duck and goose hunting.
Traditionally, the dog worked with hunters
in a hide. The concealed hunter threw a stick
for the dog, which would chase it with
a great show of activity but no barking,
and this activity would lure in, or toll,
inquisitive birds. Once the birds were
within range, the hunter could shoot
them and the dog retrieve them.
The Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever
originated in Nova Scotia in the mid-19th
century. It is descended from decoy dogs
brought over from Europe; its tolling

Triangular,
drop ears held
slightly erect

method is similar to that of breeds


such as the Kooikerhondje (see p.238).
These dogs were crossed with spaniels,
retrievers, and the Irish Setter (see p.242).
The breed acquired its present name
when the Canadian Kennel Club
recognized it in 1945.
The Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever
is compact and agile, with a thick, waterrepellent coat and webbing between its toes.
The coat is reddish, often with a white chest
and tail tip, like a foxs pelt. The dogs
playful, quiet, and obedient nature makes
it an excellent companion. It is also tireless,
so needs plenty of exercise.

Almond-shaped
eyes have alert
expression

Red
Close-tting lips

Slightly wedgeshaped head with


tapering muzzle

Water-repellent
coat with dense
undercoat
Well
feathered
tail, broad
at base

244

Typical white
markings on feet

German Pointer
HEIGHT
2125in
(5364cm)

WEIGHT
4471lb
(2032kg)

LIFE SPAN
1014 years

HPR BREEDS
The German Pointers belong to a group of
all-purpose gundogs known as the hunt,
point, retrieve (HPR) breeds. HPR breeds
originated in mainland Europe, where
hunters might only have kept one or two
dogs to perform a variety of tasks. Other
examples include the Weimaraner (see p.248),
the Viszla (see p.246), and the Spinone Italiano
(see p.250). By contrast, British breeders
focused on producing gundogs for specic
tasks and particular types of game, such as
the Cocker Spaniel (see p.222), bred for
ushing out woodcock.

Liver
Brown
Black

This popular, intelligent breed is genial and gentle if kept


busy, so it makes a rewarding family pet for active owners
A superlative all-purpose hunting dog
that tracks, points, and retrieves over
any terrain from grassland to marshland,
the German Pointer originated in the 19th
century. Breeders, led by Prince Albrecht
zu Solms-Braunfels, crossed German
hounds and retriever breeds, including the
Schweisshund (a heavy, houndlike dog
that could both track game and point),
and the Pointer (see p.254) to add speed,
agility, and elegance.
There are three varieties of German
Pointer. The main variety, and by far the
best known, is the German Shorthaired
Pointer (Deutsch Kurzhaar), called GSP by

British hunters. It dates from the 1880s.


This breed has become one of the most
popular hunting dogs in the world. The
German Longhaired Pointer (Deutsch
Langhaar) appeared at about the same time.
The German Wirehaired Pointer (Deutsch
Drahthaar) was developed slightly later,
from the German Shorthaired Pointer.
In its homeland the German Pointer has
always been kept for the family as well as
the hunt, and it is generally level-headed
and reliable with people. This is an
energetic dog, however, and needs a lot of
exercise each day. It does best with hunters
and people who like to run, hike, or cycle.

Well-dened stop
Medium-sized,
brown eyes

Liver patch
Broad, drop ears,
rounded at tips

Tapering tail
with white tip,
carried low
Brown nose
Liver with
white ticking

Tucked-up
belly
WIRE-HAIRED
Coat coarse
to touch

Spoon-shaped,
compact feet
SHORT-HAIRED

245

C ATALOG OF BREEDS | GUNDOGS

Vizsla
HEIGHT
2125in
(5364cm)

WEIGHT
4466lb
(2030kg)

LIFE SPAN
1314 years

This loyal and gentle dog makes an attractive family


companion, but its high energy levels need to be satised
Ancestors of the Vizsla, a typical
European all-purpose hunting dog,
appear in written texts from the 14th
century, and may have existed even
earlier. Stone carvings dating back 1,000
years show Magyar hunters with falcons
and dogs that resembled the Vizsla. For
centuries the Vizsla was a favorite with
the Hungarian aristocracy, who kept the
bloodlines pure; it was known as the Gift
of Kings, presented only to royalty and the
most select of foreigners. The breed almost
died out after World War II, but Hungarian
emigrants brought the dogs to western
Europe and the US, where it is now
increasingly popular.

YOGISHOW CHAMPION
In the show ring the most famous Vizsla is a
male named Yogi (registered name Hungargunn
Bear Itn Mind). Born in 2002 in Australia, he
won his rst Best in Show at the age of only
12 weeks. In 2005 Yogi was brought to the UK,
where he has had a dazzling show career. By
2010 he had won 17 UK Best in Show titles,
breaking a record that had stood
for more than 70 years. He went on to win
Best in Show at Crufts in 2010 (below, with
the trophy and his handler, John Thirwell)
before being retired to stud.

In the hunting eld the Vizsla has speed


and stamina and will work all day in
any conditions, on land or in water.
It has been used to hunt a variety of game,
including duck, rabbit, wolf, and boar. The
breed has an excellent nose for tracking and
a soft mouth for retrieving. It is intelligent
and responds well to training.
Although a hunting dog, the Vizsla
has always been a family companion as
well; traditionally, it was said that the
dog was as much a part of the family as
the children. The breed is very loyal
and loving but needs plenty of vigorous
exercise every day.
There are two varieties: the
original short-haired type, also
known as the Hungarian Pointer, and
the wire-haired variety, which was
developed in the 1930s and has a
sturdier build.

Slightly curved
tail tapers to
pointed tip

Tight, arched,
round, catlike feet

WIRE-HAIRED PUPPY

246

GUNDOGS

Nose color
matches coat

Strong, muscular back

Smooth, arched
neck is muscular

Distinctive, sleek coat


lacks insulating undercoat

Eyes slightly
darker than
coat color
Slightly shorter hair
on drop ears

Tapering
muzzle is
square at end

Golden-russet

Long forearms

SHORT-HAIRED

WIRE-HAIRED

247

C ATALOG OF BREEDS | GUNDOGS

Weimaraner
HEIGHT
2227in
(5669cm)

WEIGHT
5590lb
(2541kg)

LIFE SPAN
1213 years

PHOTOGRAPHIC BEAUTY
Since the 1970s American artist William Wegman
(pictured below) has used his Weimaraners for
inspiration in his photographs and video work,
starting with his dog Man Ray (named after the
Surrealist artist and photographer). Wegman
highlights the beauty of the Weimaraners body
shape and the texture of the fur. He also draws
on the breeds otherworldly appearance by
showing his dogs posing in odd settings,
peculiar costumes, or mysterious lms.

This elegant, unusually colored, and intelligent dog has


boundless energy so needs plenty of space to explore
Created as an all-purpose hunting,
pointing, and retrieving gundog (HPR
breed, see p.245), this 19th-century breed
is descended from various German hunting
dogs. The Weimaraner takes its name from
the German Court of Weimar, where it was
developed, and for a long time it was mainly
kept by the nobility. At rst it was used for
bringing down big game such as wolves and
deer, but later it was used for retrieving
birds from land or water.
The Weimaraner has a smooth, powerful
gait and great stamina. It is also known as a
careful, almost stealthy dog in the eld. This

style of working, together with the striking


silver-gray coat and pale eyes, has given
rise to the breeds nickname, the Gray
Ghost. Elegant lines, silver-gray color, and
grace in movement have made this breed
popular as a show dog and pet as well as a
working animal. While the Weimaraner
may be reserved with strangers, it is a
bouncy family companion and can be too
boisterous for small children. The breed
needs lots of exercise, including running
and exploring, as an outlet for its energy.
There are two coat types: short-haired, and
the much less common long-haired type.
Striking, pale
blue-gray eyes

Large, high-set ears


have slight fold

Nose matches
coat color

Body as long as
height at withers

Silky coat

Tail reaches hocks


Silvergray

Moderately
tucked-up belly
Feathering
on legs

Firm, compact feet

SHORT-HAIRED

LONG-HAIRED

248

GUNDOGS

Wirehaired Pointing Griffon

Cesky Fousek
HEIGHT 2326in (5866cm)
WEIGHT 4975lb (2234kg)
LIFE SPAN 1213 years

HEIGHT 2024in (5060cm)


WEIGHT 5160lb (2327kg)
LIFE SPAN 1213 years

Brown
Brown coats may have ticked
markings on chest and lower limbs.

Related to the German Pointer (see p.245), bred by Dutchman


Edward Korthals, and adopted by French hunters, this is a versatile
and easy-going breed. It is not the fastest gundog, but it is popular
for hunting where obedient, close-working dogs are needed
qualities that also make it a valuable companion.

This breed, variously claimed to be of Czech, Slovakian,


or Bohemian descent, is still popular in these areas but
is rare elsewhere. It is loyal and trainable, and usually
gentle around people, but is a natural hunter and
so may be unreliable with other pets.
Dark roan with
brown patches

Liver or liver-brown
Liver-roan or white and brown

Large,
drop ears

Steel-gray with
liver-brown
patches

Tail traditionally docked


to two-fths of length
Beard of
soft hair
Hairy
eyebrows

Deep-set,
amber eyes

Straight,
coarse coat

Body length
exceeds
leg length

Shorter
liver hair
on ears

Long
muzzle
with hairy
beard and
mustache

Hard,
protective
coat

Bushy
eyebrows

Deep chest
Compact, spoonshaped feet

Round feet
with tight,
arched toes

Portuguese Pointing Dog


Dark eyes
with dark rims

HEIGHT 2022in (5256cm)


WEIGHT 3560lb (1627kg)
LIFE SPAN 1214 years

Also known as the Perdigueiro Portugus,


which literally means the Portuguese
partridge dog, this breed was used as
a pointer for hunters with falcons or
nets. Still worked today, the Portuguese
Pointing Dog is level-headed and
obedient and so also makes an
amenable companion. However,
this tenacious hunter needs
considerable mental and
physical activity every day.

Triangular,
drop ears

Moderately
developed ews
Slight dewlap

Deep chest

Short coat
Red-yellow

White markings
on feet

249

C ATALOG OF BREEDS | GUNDOGS

Spinone Italiano
HEIGHT
2328in
(5870cm)

WEIGHT
6585lb
(2939kg)

LIFE SPAN
1213 years

White
Orange-roan
White and brown or brown-roan

This easy-going and relaxed companion can be quickly


distracted and is not ideal for house-proud owners
The origins of the Spinone Italiano are
unclear, but wire-haired pointer-type dogs
have been known in Italy since the time of
the Renaissance; one such dog is featured
in the mural The Court of Gonzaga,
painted in the 1470s by Andrea Mantegna
in the ducal palace at Mantua.
The modern breed originated in the
Piedmont region of northwest Italy, and
acquired the name Spinone in the 19th
century. This versatile hunt, point, retrieve
breed (see p.245) was the regions most
popular hunting dog until the 20th century.
The Spinone Italiano played a vital role for
Italian partisans during World War II,
tracking enemy soldiers as well as bringing
in food. By the end of the war the number
of dogs was very low, so from the 1950s
Italian breeders formed a club to save it
from extinction.
The Spinone Italiano can follow both
airborne and ground scents and will
work even in heavy, thorny cover. It tracks
quietly and thoroughly, hunting close to
its handler and covering the ground in a
zigzag fashion, at a long-striding trot.
The dogs rough coat protects it even in
dense thorn bushes and icy water. The

Spinone Italiano is still worked, although the


faster Bracco Italiano (see p.252) is now
more popular for hunting in Italy.
In recent years the Spinone Italiano has
become a popular pet in various countries,
prized for its gentle temperament and
loyalty. It needs plenty of daily exercise,
but its tendency to move at a slower pace
than many gundogs makes it a comfortable
walking companion. The coat requires little
care, aside from occasional brushing and
hand-stripping, although it does
retain smells.

Thick tail
carried low

PUPPY

A THORNY NAME
The breed now known as the Spinone
Italiano once had a variety of names,
according to the region in which it was bred.
One name was Bracco Spinoso, prickly
pointer, thought to refer to the dogs rough,
bristly coat. The name Spinone links to the
word pino, the name for a kind of dense
Italian thorn bush, because the Spinone, with
its tough skin and coarse coat, was one of
the few dogs that could push through the
thorns to reach its quarry (shown here in a
French print from 1907).

250

Large,
round feet

GUNDOGS

Large, round, ocher eyes


with kind expression

Triangular,
pendant ears
Back curves gently

Long mustache
blends into beard

White and orange

Light-colored
nose

Slightly tucked-up belly

Coarse,
dense coat
Broad,
deep chest

251

C ATALOG OF BREEDS | GUNDOGS

Bracco Italiano
HEIGHT
2226in
(5567cm)

WEIGHT
5588lb
(2540kg)

LIFE SPAN
1213 years

NOBLE HUNTER
During the Renaissance period dogs like the
Bracco Italiano were popular with the Italian
nobility. The dogs were used with falcons to
hunt game birds. Aristocratic families such as
the Medicis and the House of Gonzaga kept
breeding kennels and produced dogs that
were prized for their hunting skills. In 1527
it was recorded that some chestnut-colored
dogs had been given to the Court of France
as a present; the Piemontese dogs (seen below
in a French print from 1907) were also highly
sought after in royal courts across Europe.

White
White and orange, amber, or chestnut

This rare gundog is surprisingly athletic for its size, but


its level-headedness makes it a suitable family pet
A breed from northern Italy, the Bracco
Italiano, or Italian Pointer, has ancestors
dating back to at least the Middle Ages.
Dogs like this can be seen in paintings from
the 14th century, when they were used to
drive game birds into nets. Once hunters
started using guns, the breed evolved into
an all-purpose hunt, point, retrieve
(HPR) gundog (see p.245).
By the 19th century there were two
types: the tall, sturdy Bracco Lombardo
from Lombardy, with a white and brownroan coat, and the lighter, white-and-orange
Bracco Piemontese, adapted for working
in the mountains. Numbers had declined

by the early 20th century but enthusiasts


saved the breed, and the Italian Kennel
Club drew up a standard for it in 1949.
The two types were brought under one
name, but the heavier and lighter dogs
can still be seen today.
Still used as a working dog, the Bracco
Italiano has a distinctive style of following
a scent at a long-striding trot, with its
nose held highled by the nose, as the
Italians say. It is very fond of people and
makes a calm, gentle companion, although
it needs lots of exercise and may have to be
walked on a leash to control its strong
hunting drive.
Slightly arched muzzle

Nose matches
coat color

Roan with
chestnut markings

Pendant
ears with
rounded tips

Well
developed
ews

Powerful
neck has
soft dewlap

Tail tapers
slightly
Oval-shaped feet

252

Pudelpointer
HEIGHT 2227in (5568cm)
WEIGHT 4466lb (2030kg)
LIFE SPAN 1214 years

Developed for both the field


and home, this cross of
poodle and pointer aims
to be the best of both:
intelligent, hardy, and
sociable, with excellent
all-around working abilities.
Most popular with hunters,
the Pudelpointer is an
amenable and cheerful
rural companion.

Dead leaf
Black

Curling forelock
Hard, rough
coat, with
dense undercoat

Brown

White markings
on chest

Saberlike tail

Beard and
mustache
lighter in
color

Slightly
tucked-up belly

Oval feet

Slovakian Rough-haired Pointer


HEIGHT 2227in (5768cm)
WEIGHT 5577lb (2535kg)
LIFE SPAN 1214 years

This breed is found under


a variety of names, from
Slovensky Pointer to Wirehaired Slovakian Pointer, and
Slovensk Hrubosrst Stavac
in its homeland. It is probably
descended from German hunting
dogs and shows their typical
intelligence, good humor, and
energy. This is not a breed to
leave alone at home because
it thrives on company
and activity.

Long, lean head


Almond-shaped,
amber eyes

Straight, solid back


slopes slightly down
toward tail

Drop ears with


short, soft hair

Longer, softer,
lighter-colored
hair on muzzle

Brown-shaded
sable gray
Harsh,
at coat

White markings
on chest
Rounded feet with
arched toes

253

C ATALOG OF BREEDS | GUNDOGS

254

GUNDOGS

Pointer
HEIGHT
2125in
(5364cm)

WEIGHT
4575lb
(2034kg)

LITERARY POINTER
LIFE SPAN
1213 years

Variety of colors

Friendly and intelligent, this athletic dog needs plenty


of physical and mental activity if kept as a pet
Pointers are a type of hunting dog
named for the stance they assume when they
nd game: standing still, with one foot
raised and their nose pointing in the
direction of the game. These breeds
developed in various European countries at
the same time. In Britain ancestors of the
Pointer appeared around 1650. These early
dogs may have resulted from crosses including
the English Foxhound (see p.158), the
Greyhound (see p.126), as well as
an old type of setting
spaniel. Later, crosses with
the Spanish hunting dogs
and with setter breeds were
made to improve the breeds
pointing skill
and trainability.
At rst Pointers were
used to point hare for
Greyhounds to pursue,
or used for hunting with

falcons. From the 18th century, when it


became popular to shoot birds on the wing,
they were used to locate game birds, especially
in upland areas. The breed has excellent
air-scenting abilities, which help make it an
effective pointer; it is less good at retrieving,
although it is sometimes used for this
purpose, too. The Pointer is noted for its
speed and endurance, and is still used today in
hunting and eld trials in the US and the UK.
Pointers are gentle, loyal, and obedient.
They are affectionate family companions
and reliable with children, although they
can be a little too boisterous with toddlers.
The breed has retained its hunting stamina,
so these dogs need plenty of vigorous
exercise every day.

In the 19th century some Englishmen gave their


Pointers Spanish names in recognition of the
Spanish inuence on the breed. One ctional
example is Ponto, mentioned in The Pickwick
Papers by Charles Dickens. The dog features
in a tall tale told by the rascally Mr. Jingle;
allegedly, during a days shooting, Ponto stopped
still, refusing to move, while staring at a notice
saying that the gamekeeper would shoot all
dogs in that area.
Pointers are
intelligent dogs
but reading may
be beyond even
their abilities!

ILLUSTRATION
FROM AN 1837
EDITION OF
THE PICKWICK
PAPERS

Very well-dened stop

Drop ears lie


close to head

PUPPY

Long, slightly
arched neck

Well developed,
soft ews

Muscular
hindquarters
Fine, hard,
short coat
Orange and white

Orange spotting
on straight forelegs
Long, slightly
sloping pasterns

Oval feet with


arched toes

255

C ATALOG OF BREEDS | GUNDOGS

French Pyrenean Pointer


HEIGHT 1923in (4758cm)
WEIGHT 4053lb (1824kg)
LIFE SPAN 1214 years

Chestnut-brown
Chestnut-brown dogs may have tan markings.

The most popular of the


French pointers, the French
Pyrenean Pointer is still rare
and mostly used for hunting.
A swift and tireless breed,
it was created in southwest
France to work in mountain
terrain. It is gentle and
affectionate at home,
and makes an ideal
companion for the
more active owner.

Typical chestnutbrown head

Broad, straight back


may be quite long
Chestnut-brown
and white

Nose matches
coat color

Very short,
ne coat

Belly moderately
tucked up
Area of speckling
denser than French
Gascony Pointer
(see p.258)

Saint Germain Pointer


HEIGHT 2124in (5462cm)
WEIGHT 4057lb (1826kg)
LIFE SPAN 1214 years

Golden-yellow
eyes

Also known as the Braque Saint-Germain, this is a eet-footed


pointer and retriever of birds in eld, woodland, and marshland.
However, its coat is not sufciently insulated to make it an
all-weather dog. The Saint Germain Pointer is affectionate
but sensitive, needing rm yet gentle handling, and adapts
surprisingly well to urban family life.

Flews cover
lower jaw

Tapering, hock-length tail


carried horizontally

White with
orange markings

Pink nose

Long, deep chest

Long feet with


light-colored nails

256

GUNDOGS

Bourbonnais Pointing Dog

Slightly tapered
muzzle

HEIGHT 1922in (4857cm)


WEIGHT 3557lb (1626kg)
LIFE SPAN 1214 years

The oldest and perhaps


the most level-headed of all
French gundogs, this breed
is a versatile tracker, pointer,
and retriever. Robust in build,
giving an impression of
power, this dog is full
of stamina when
working but relaxed
and affectionate
when off duty.

White with
brown ticking

Brown, drop ears


with rounded tips

Pearshaped
head

Line of belly
rises steadily

Round feet

Ariege Pointing Dog

Auvergne Pointer
HEIGHT 2125in (5363cm)
WEIGHT 4962lb (2228kg)
LIFE SPAN 1213 years

HEIGHT 2226in (5667cm)


WEIGHT 5566lb (2530kg)
LIFE SPAN 1214 years

The Auvergne Pointer, or Braque dAuvergne, was bred in


central France by and for hunters, and it remains a tenacious
all-purpose hunting dog that can work all day over long distances.
Friendly and intelligent, this is a lively, affectionate breed that
is easily trained and loves company.
The Auvergne Pointer will thrive
Flews neatly
in any active household.
overlap
lower lip

Rare even in its homeland in southwest France, the Ariege


Pointing Dog, or Braque de lArige, is used for pointing and
retrieving, and has some tracking ability. It is almost exclusively owned
by hunters, and needs patient training to settle an enthusiastic nature
that can spill over into wildness, and plenty
to do if it is not to become destructive.
Tapering tail
Long,
straight
muzzle

Typical black
markings on
face and ears
White with
black markings
Black ecking over
white gives coat
blue appearance

White with
fawn ticking

Short,
glossy coat

Fine,
folded,
tan ears

Compact feet
with wellarched toes

257

C ATALOG OF BREEDS | GUNDOGS

French Gascony Pointer


HEIGHT 2227in (5669cm)
WEIGHT 5571lb (2532kg)
LIFE SPAN 1214 years

Chestnut-brown
Chestnut-brown dogs may have tan markings.

One of the oldest pointer breeds, the French Gascony Pointer,


from southwest France, is still kept as a hunters dog as well as
a household companion. Loyal and affectionate, it has a sensitive
nature that responds best to gentle, consistent training. It is
a determined and enthusiastic tracker in the eld.

Broad, straight back

Chestnut-brown
eyes

Drop ears with


rounded tips
Very ne,
short coat

Chestnut-brown
and white
Chestnut-brown ecking
less dense than on French
Pyrenean Pointer (see p.256)

Compact, almost
round feet

Old Danish Pointer

Spanish Pointer
HEIGHT 2326in (5967cm)
WEIGHT 5566lb (2530kg)
LIFE SPAN 1214 years

HEIGHT 2024in (5060cm)


WEIGHT 5777lb (2635kg)
LIFE SPAN 1213 years

Also known as the Perdiguero de Burgos, this dog was


bred to track deer, but is now mostly used for smaller game.
It is a reliable, easy-going breed that ts well into family life.
Nonetheless, it is an avid hunterhalfway between a scent
hound and a pointerand thrives on work.
White patch

Its local name, Gammel Dansk Hnsehund, also translates as


Old Danish Chicken Dog or Bird Dog. This breed is still used
as a determined tracker, pointer, and retriever, and even as
a sniffer dog, but it also makes an even-tempered family
Moderate
dog for those willing to give it plenty to do.
stop

on head
Tail traditionally
docked to
one-third of
natural length

Liver
patch

Liver-colored
patch

White with
liver markings

Dark hazel
eyes
Well
developed
ews cover
lower lip

Broad, drop
ears with
rounded tips
Liver
marbled

Round,
catlike
feet

258

Muscular,
slightly
throaty
neck

Liver ecking

Golden Retriever
HEIGHT
2024in
(5161cm)

WEIGHT
5575lb
(2534kg)

LIFE SPAN
1213 years

GUIDE DOGS FOR THE BLIND


A guide dog (sometimes called a
seeing-eye dog) is a dog that helps
blind or partially sighted people get
around outside the home. The
pure-bred or part-bred Golden
Retriever is one of the most
popular dogs for this work.
It has the size and strength
for leading people, and its
intelligence makes it easy
to train for a wide variety
of tasks. In addition,
its gentle, friendly
nature enables
the owner to
bond with it easily.

Cream

The temperament of this exuberant, easy-going gundog


has made it a family favorite in many countries
One of the most popular breeds worldwide,
the Golden Retriever originated in Scotland
in the mid-19th century, when the aristocrat
Lord Tweedmouth crossed his Yellow
Retriever with the now-extinct Tweed
Water Spaniel of the English-Scottish border
country. Later crosses were made with the
Irish Setter (see p.242) and the Flat Coated
Retriever (see p.262). The result was an
active, intelligent retriever that could work
for long distances in difcult upland terrain,
heavy vegetation, and icy water. It was also
noted for being easy to train and having a
soft mouth when carrying game.

The Golden Retriever is still used by hunters,


and competes in eld trials and obedience
competitions. It is effective in search and
rescue and in detecting drugs and explosives.
The breed is also employed as a guide dog for
blind people, an assistance dog for those with
other disabilities, and a therapy dog. Perhaps
the only job at which it fails is being a guard
dog because it is so friendly. It is enormously
popular as a pet. Gregarious, responsive, and
even-tempered, this dogs main goal in life is
to please. It needs plenty of company and
vigorous exercise, and loves games that
involve retrieving and carrying things.
Powerful but
chiseled head

Drop ears

Long,
silky coat

Dark
brown
eyes

Long tail
without a curl

Gold

Lighter-colored
undercoat

Round,
catlike feet

259

C ATALOG OF BREEDS | GUNDOGS

Labrador Retriever
HEIGHT
22in
(5557cm)

WEIGHT
5582lb
(2537kg)

LIFE SPAN
1012 years

Chocolate
Black
May have a small, white spot on chest.

This family favorite owes its popularity to its kind and even
temperament and its enthusiasm for sports and swimming
One of the most familiar dogs, the Labrador
Retriever has been topping popular dog lists
for at least two decades. The dogs from
which the present-day Labrador Retriever
descended were not from the Canadian region
of Labrador, as is commonly supposed,
but from the province of Newfoundland.
Here, from the 18th century onward, black
dogs with waterproof coats were bred by local
shermen and used to help tow in catches and
retrieve escaping sh. Dogs of this early type
no longer exist, but a few were brought to
England in the 19th century and these led
to the development of the modern Labrador
Retriever. By the early 20th century the breed
was ofcially recognized and continued to
be much admired by eld sportsmen for its
excellent retrieving skills.

THE COTTONELLE PUPPY


For many years the Cottonelle Puppy
has symbolized the Cottonelle brand of toilet
paper in the US. This vital but unglamorous
item has been given a soft, uffy, appealing
image thanks to the golden Labrador Retriever
puppies. The puppy has also become a feature
in Australia and more than 30 other countries,
where it is known as the Kleenex puppy.
Andrex in the UK and Kleenex Cottonelle
in Australia now use the puppy to promote
charities that train dogs for blind people
and others with disabilities.

Characteristic
otter tail, round
and hair-covered

Today the Labrador Retriever is still widely


used as a gundog and has proved efcient at
other types of work, such as tracking for
police forces. In particular, its steady
character makes it a superb guide dog
for the blind. However, it is as a family
dog that this breed has gained great
popularity. The Labrador Retriever
is loving and lovable, easy to train,
anxious to please, and reliable with
children and household petsbut
it has too amiable a character to
make a good guard dog.
This breed has energy to
burn and needs to be kept
mentally as well as physically
active. Long daily walks are
essential, preferably with the
chance to have a swim along
the way. If this dog sees
water, it will plunge
straight in. Underexercised
and left to its own devices,
a Labrador Retriever may
be prone to excessive
barking or become
destructive. It tends
to gain weight easily,
and lack of exercise
combined with its
insatiable appetite can
lead to weight problems.

Round,
compact feet

PUPPY

260

GUNDOGS
Moderate stop

Powerful neck

Level topline

Yellow

Broad head

Medium-sized
hazel eyes

Weatherproof,
short coat

Black nose
fades to light
brown with age

Broad chest

261

C ATALOG OF BREEDS | GUNDOGS

Flat Coated Retriever


HEIGHT 2224in (5661cm)
WEIGHT 5579lb (2536kg)
LIFE SPAN 1113 years

Shallow stop

Liver

One of the earliest retriever breeds, this was once a favorite


among British gamekeepers. Today it is still worked but is
more often found as a good-natured and handsome pet.
Lively and brimming with enthusiasm, the Flat Coated
Retriever is also level-headed and obedient. It has a
Well
feathered
deep bark so can make a good guard dog.
tail

Black

Dense coat

Feathering
on chest

Round,
close-knit feet

Curly Coated Retriever


HEIGHT 2527in (6469cm)
WEIGHT 6071lb (2732kg)
LIFE SPAN 1213 years

Smooth, short
hair on head

Liver

Bred for hunting waterfowl, this rare British retriever is


worked and used as an assistance dog, as well as being
kept as an affectionate and level-headed companion.
High energy levels and a need for company make this
dog more suited to a rural life
than to an urban home.
Small, triangular,
drop ears

Thick, tightly
curled coat
Tail almost
reaches hock

Black
Oval eyes
match coat
color

Round feet with


well arched toes

262

Chesapeake Bay Retriever


HEIGHT
2126in
(5366cm)

WEIGHT
5579lb
(2536kg)

LIFE SPAN
1213 years

SHIPWRECK SURVIVORS
The origin of the Chesapeake Bay Retriever dates
back to 1807, when two Newfoundland-type
pups were rescued from a sinking ship off the
coast of Maryland. The pupsa dingy red dog
named Sailor and a black bitch called Canton
(after the ship)were separated and given
to different owners. They proved themselves to
be superb waterfowl retrieversenthusiastically
leaping into the water to retrieve shot birds (as
below). Crossed with local dogs, including Flat
Coated Retrievers (opposite) and Curly Coated
Retrievers (opposite), they produced the rst
Chesapeake Bay Retrievers.

Straw to bracken
Red-gold
May have small, white markings.

This even-tempered, hardy dog is suited to country


life and loves plenty of attention and exercise
This retriever, also known as the
Chessie, originated in the state of
Maryland. A superb water dog, it was
developed to retrieve waterfowl in the cold,
rough waters of Chesapeake Bay. During the
19th century the Chesapeake Bay dogs were
so admired that a cast-iron manufacturer
made and used statues of the founding
dogs, Sailor and Canton, as its company
emblem. By the 1880s the Chesapeake
Bay Retriever had emerged as a distinct
type, and the breed was recognized by
the American Kennel Club in 1918.
The Chesapeake Bay Retriever is now
the state dog of Maryland.

With typical retriever gentleness but


an alert, determined personality, the
Chesapeake Bay Retriever is still used
for hunting today. It will work under all
conditions, including strong tides and high
winds, and will even break ice with its
forepaws to reach its quarry. Dogs have been
known to retrieve several hundred birds in
a day. The Chesapeake Bay Retriever is a
superb swimmer, aided by webbing between
its toes, and a short, dense, oily coat that is
water-repellent. The breed also makes a
good companion, although it needs plenty of
activity, especially swimming and retrieving,
to match its high energy levels.
Moderate stop

Brown
Color of nose
matches coat

Mediumlength, slightly
curved tail

Oily, wavy
double coat

Deep chest

Harelike feet

263

Mexican pet
A Chihuahua may t into a handbag
but it is not a fashion accessory. This
little breed from Mexico needs exercise
as much as any larger dog.

COMPANION DOGS

COMPANION
DOGS
Almost any dog can provide companionship. Many dogs once used for outside work, such as
herding, have moved indoors with the family. Usually, these breeds have been developed for
specic tasks and so are traditionally grouped according to their primary function. With a few
exceptions, the companion dogs included here are bred solely as pets.

Most companion dogs are small


breeds, created primarily to sit on
laps, look decorative, and entertain
their owners without taking up
much room. Some of them are toy
versions of larger working breeds.
The Poodle (see p.229), for example,
once used for herding or for
retrieving waterfowl, was bred down
in size to a toy dog that could no longer
perform that practical function. Other,
larger, dogs sometimes grouped with
companion breeds include the
Dalmatian (see p.286), whose career
included a short-lived spell as a
carriage escort, as much for prestige
as guard duty. Now that this job no
longer exists, Dalmatians are rarely
used for any working purpose.

Companion dogs have a long history. A


number of them originated thousands
of years ago in China, where small
dogs were kept in the imperial courts
as ornaments and a source of comfort.
Until the late 19th century companion
dogs everywhere were almost
exclusively the pampered pets of the
wealthy. As such, they often featured
in portraits, depicted sitting prettily in
the drawing room or with children
as a nursery plaything. Some, such as
the English Toy Spaniel (see p.279),
owe their enduring popularity to the
former patronage of royalty.
Appearance has always mattered
in the breeding of companion dogs.
Over the centuries selective breeding
has produced characteristics, some

bizarre, that serve no useful function


but are designed to appealfor
example, the humanlike at faces
and large, round eyes of the Pekingese
(see p.270) and the Pug (see p.268).
Some have extravagantly long coats,
curly tails, orin the case of the
Chinese Crested Dog (see p.280)
no hair at all, apart from a few tufts
on the head or legs.
In modern times companion dogs are
no longer a symbol of class. They nd
a place with owners of all ages and
circumstances, in small apartments
as well as in large country homes.
Although still chosen for their looks,
these dogs are also sought after as
friends that give and demand affection
and adapt happily to family activities.

265

C ATALOG OF BREEDS | COMPANION DOGS

Brussels Griffon
HEIGHT
911in
(2328cm)

WEIGHT
711lb
(35kg)

LIFE SPAN
Over 12 years

Black and tan


Black

SMOOTH-HAIRED
(PETIT BRABANON)

This lively, well balanced dog with a terrierlike disposition


adapts well to city life but remains rare outside Europe
This little dog originated in Belgium,
where it was kept as a stable dog. This
dog was related to the Affenpinscher (see
p.218), from which it probably inherited its
monkey face. During the 19th century it
was crossed with the Pug (see p.268) and the
Ruby English Toy Spaniel (see p.279),
the latter producing the reddish or black
and tan coloring seen in some dogs.
Despite its popularity in the late 19th
century, by 1945 the Brussels Griffon
had almost disappeared in Belgium. It
was only saved by breeders importing
dogs from the UK. It is still uncommon

today, although these dogs have featured


in major movies such as As Good As It Gets
and Gosford Park.
There is a smooth-haired variety known
as the Petit Brabanon, and a rough-haired
variety with a distinctive beard. In some
countries black rough-coated dogs are dened
as Belgian Griffons, and all other colors of
rough-haired dog as Brussels Griffons.
Bold and condent but affectionate,
the breed is an entertaining companion,
although it may be too sensitive for homes
with small children. It enjoys a good walk
and being pampered.

FROM STABLE TO ROYAL PET


The Brussels Griffon is descended from the
little rough-haired dogs that were often seen in
Brussels streets and known as little street urchins.
The dogs were favorites with the citys hansom
cab drivers, who kept them in the stables for
catching rats. During
the 19th century the
breed became popular
throughout society as a
companion dog. One of
the foremost supporters
was Queen Marie Henriette
of Belgium (right, with her
maid of honor), who
brought the breed to
international fame.

Round head with


upturned nose

High-set tail curves over


back when active
Semierect, high-set
ears with shorter hair

Wiry coat

Smooth coat

Distinctive
bearded chin

Red

Wide,
deep chest

Compact,
square body
Rounded,
catlike feet

ROUGH-HAIRED
(BRUSSELS GRIFFON)

266

SMOOTH-HAIRED
(PETIT BRABANON)

COMPANION DOGS

Olde English Bulldogge

American Bulldog
HEIGHT 2027in (5169cm)
WEIGHT 60125lb (2757kg)
LIFE SPAN Up to 16 years

HEIGHT 1620in (4151cm)


WEIGHT 5179lb (2336kg)
LIFE SPAN 914 years

Variety of colors

Early English settlers brought the Bulldog (see p.95) with them
to the US. Two breeders, John D. Johnson and Alan Scott, used
the English variety to develop the American Bulldog, which is taller,
more active, and more versatile than its English counterpart.
Male dogs are signicantly heavier than females.
Well developed
ews
Short coat

Variety of colors

This muscular dog is a re-creation of the original 19th-century


Bulldog. It was developed in the US during the 1970s by David
Leavitt to eliminate some of the health problems that are now
seen in the modern Bulldog (see p.95). Condent and courageous,
these intelligent dogs are excellent family companions.
However, they benet from early
socialization and training.
Wide, muscular back

White

Large,
broad head

White and tan


Round,
brown eyes,
set wide apart

Red

Broad
chest

Button
ears
Short,
glossy coat

Broad
chest

Rounded, catlike feet

French Bulldog
HEIGHT 1113in (2833cm)
WEIGHT 2429lb (1113kg)
LIFE SPAN Over 10 years

Black brindle

A sturdy, compact little dog, the French Bulldog


makes an excellent companion, but has few
boundaries and will want to share its owners
favorite chair. Always ready for fun, the dog
may need kind but rm direction. This
breed is a descendant of the British
Toy Bulldog taken to France in
the 19th century.

Well pronounced
stop

Distinctive bat
earswide at base,
rounded at top

Strong,
thickset
neck

Short coat

Fawn
Pied with white
predominant
over black

267

C ATALOG OF BREEDS

COMPANION DOGS

Pug
HEIGHT
1011in
(2528 cm)

CHANGING FACES
WEIGHT
1318lb
(68kg)

LIFE SPAN
Over 10 years

Silver
Apricot
Black

This playful, even-tempered, and intelligent dog loves


people but can sometimes be stubborn
Small, stocky, puglike dogs have existed
for many hundreds of years, but the ancestry
and origin of the Pug breed remain uncertain.
Genetic evidence suggests the Pug is most
closely related to the Brussels Griffon and in
particular to the smooth-haired Petit
Brabanon (p.266). It also has a shared
ancestry with both the Pekingese (p.270)
and the Shih Tzu (p.272). It is likely that the
Pug is linked with these dogs through the
extinct Chinese Happa Dog (see box p.270).
Puglike dogs were brought to Europe in
the 16th century by
the Dutch East India
Company traders.
The dogs became very
popular with the Dutch
aristocracy and were
brought to Britain by
PUPPY

William and Mary of Orange when


they acceded the British throne in 1689.
During the 18th century the dogs
popularity increased further and they
appeared in paintings by Francisco Goya
(17461828) and William Hogarth (1697
1764) (see p.22).
In the 19th century Pugs were imported
to the US, where the breed was ofcially
recognized in 1885. Imports of dogs from
China to the UK in 1877 introduced a third
colorblackwhich the Kennel Club
recognized in 1896.
The Pugs wrinkled, sad-looking, little face
belies its cheerful, and often mischievous,
outgoing character. Highly intelligent, loving,
and loyal, it is good with children and other
pets. The breed thrives on regular exercise
but does not need a great deal of space.
Dark, button
ears

The appearance of Pugs has changed radically


since the 19th century, as can be seen in the 1893
etching below. Pugs at this time had a longer
muzzle and lacked the at face and upturned
nose of todays dogs. Their legs were also longer
and their bodies more muscular and less square.
The features seen in modern Pugs started to
appear toward the end of the 19th century.
Both of the Pugs below have clipped ears, a
common practice that was banned in the UK
by Queen Victoria, who considered it cruel.

Upturned nose

Highly wrinkled,
at, face

Fawn
High-set,
tightly
curled tail

Large, dark,
round eyes

Short, thick
neck
Black
mask

Smooth,
glossy coat

Broad chest

269

C ATALOG OF BREEDS | COMPANION DOGS

Pekingese
WEIGHT
11lb
(5kg)

HEIGHT
69in
(1523cm)

LIFE SPAN
Over 12 years

Variety of colors

Dignied and courageous yet sensitive, this good-natured


dog has a mind of its own, making it difcult to train
Named after the Chinese capital (formerly
Peking, now Beijing), the Pekingese has been
revealed through DNA analysis as one of
the oldest dog breeds in existence. Small,
snub-nosed dogs have been associated
with the Chinese Imperial Court since at
least the Tang dynasty (618907CE). They
were considered sacred because of their
resemblance to the lionan exalted symbol
of Buddhaand could only be owned by
royalty. Commoners had to bow to the dogs,
and anyone caught stealing one was put to
death. The smallest individuals were sleeve
dogs, carried as guard dogs in noblemens
billowing sleeves.

By the 1820s breeding had reached its height


in China and the best dogs were painted by
court artists in Imperial dog books, which
served as a visual pedigree. The dogs reached
the West when the British sacked the Imperial
Palace in 1860, capturing ve of them. Less
controversially, in the 1900s the Dowager
Empress Cixi gave dogs as presents to some
of her European and American guests.
The perfect dog for an apartment, the
Pekingese loves exercise but not long walks.
It makes a loyal and fearless companion but
can be jealous of children and other dogs.

THE LION AND


THE MARMOSET
In Chinese legend, the story is told that a
lion once fell in love with a marmosetan
impossible love because of their differing sizes.
The lion therefore begged Ah Chu, the protector
of animals, to shrink his body to the same size
as the marmoset, but keep his lions heart and
character. From the union of the two animals,
the Fu Lin, or lion dog was born (shown below
in an illustration from an Imperial Dog Book
with a Happa Dog, right).

Long, coarse,
straight topcoat
Gold
Lionlike mane
around face

Very short muzzle

Lighter-colored
undercoat

270

COMPANION DOGS

Coton de Tulear

Bichon Frise
HEIGHT 911in (2328cm)
WEIGHT 1115lb (57kg)
LIFE SPAN Over 12 years

HEIGHT 1013in (2532cm)


WEIGHT 913lb (46kg)
LIFE SPAN Over 12 years

Sometimes known as the Tenerife dog, the Bichon Frisea


descendant of the French Water Dog (see p.229) and the Poodle
(see p.229)was allegedly taken from Tenerife to France. This
is a happy, little dog that loves to be the center of attention and
does not like being left alone.

This small, long-haired dog is known for its happy temperament.


The Coton de Tulear enjoys the company of humans as well as other
dogs and does not like to be left alone. It is sometimes called the
Royal Dog of Madagascar, where the dog existed for several
hundred years before being introduced to France.

Topcoat is
coarser than soft,
dense undercoat

Well feathered
tail

Non-shedding,
soft coat

White
Round,
black
eyes

Strong, powerful
muzzle

Pendant
ears
White
Round foot,
exaggerated
by cut of
coat

Lhasa Apso
HEIGHT Up to 10in (25cm)
WEIGHT 1315lb (67kg)
LIFE SPAN 1518 years

Variety of colors

First bred in Tibet as a watchdog for temples and monasteries,


the Lhasa Apso was brought to Europe via India in the 1920s.
It is a small, hardy dog that will happily walk for miles. Its
long, owing coat is not difcult to care for. Very
affectionate, it can also be fairly stubborn.
High-set,
plumed tail
with kink at end

Dark, medium-sized
eyes covered by hair

Heavily feathered,
pendant ears

Cloak of heavy,
straight hair, with
thick undercoat

Wheaten
and white

271

C ATALOG OF BREEDS | COMPANION DOGS

Shih Tzu
HEIGHT
Up to 11in
(27cm)

WEIGHT
1118lb
(58kg)

LIFE SPAN
Over 10 years

Variety of colors

This intelligent, bouncy, and outgoing dog loves being part


of the family, making it a popular pet around the world
This sturdy breed is descended from the
small, long-haired lion dogs that were
originally bred in Tibet. Tibetan lamas
(spiritual leaders) sent some of these valuable
dogs as tributes to the Chinese emperors,
and these were then crossed with small
dogs imported from the West in previous
centuries. Like the Pekingese (see p.270), the
Shih Tzu was revered as a holy dog because it
resembled the Chinese notion of a lion, which
was a holy Buddhist symbol. The breed name
means little lion in Chinese.
The Shih Tzu was a favorite with
royalty. During the late 19th century
Dowager Empress Cixi kept
breeding kennels for Shih Tzus
(as well as Pugs (see p.268) and
Pekingese (see p.270), but after
her death in 1908 the dogs
were dispersed.
After China became a
republic in 1912, Shih Tzus
were exported overseas.
Small groups of imported

A NEW DISCOVERY
In 1930 two small black-and-white dogs, a male
and a female, were imported to the UK by Lady
Brownrigg, an avid dog breeder (right). A second
male was taken to Ireland. Descendants of these
three dogs were the foundation stock of Lady
Brownriggs kennel and are ancestral to many
of the dogs that exist today. When rst shown
in 1933, in a class for Tibetan dogs, it was
immediately apparent that Lady Brownriggs
dogs were different from the Lhasa Apso (see
p.271) and the Tibetan Terrier (see p.283) and
this led her to form the Tibetan Lion Dog Club
and write the rst breed standard.

LADY BROWNRIGG WITH


SOME OF HER SHIH TZUS

272

dogs survived in the UK and Norway, and the


English dogs formed the basis of todays Shih
Tzu. The breed was ofcially recognized in
the UK in 1934. English Shih Tzus were
exported to Europe and Australia and, after
World War II, reached the US, too. In their
native land, however, numbers had been in
decline, and by the time of the Communist
revolution in 1949, Shih Tzus had become
almost extinct in China. Today the Shih Tzu
is one of the worlds most popular toy breeds.
Despite its dignied carriage, the Shih Tzu
makes an affectionate and friendly
pet, although it can be strongwilled. The long coat requires
daily grooming but sheds little
or no hair, making this breed
suitable for allergy sufferers.

Gold with
black mask

PUPPY

Black and
white

COMPANION DOGS

Hair grows upward


around muzzle

Heavily plumed tail


with white tip

Long, dense
topcoat

White blaze
on forehead

Short, muscular legs


hidden by long coat

273

C ATALOG OF BREEDS | COMPANION DOGS

Bolognese

Lwchen
HEIGHT 1013in (2533cm)
WEIGHT 918lb (48kg)
LIFE SPAN 1214 years

HEIGHT 1012in (2631cm)


WEIGHT 79lb (34kg)
LIFE SPAN Over 12 years

Any color

The Lwchen originated in France and Germany. The name


Lwchen is German for little lion, hence its other name, the Little
Lion Dog. It is a compact dog with a bright expression and a
reputation for agility and quickness. The Lwchens intelligent,
outgoing attitude makes it a pleasure to live with. It is highly
recommended as a pet and its size and non-shedding
coat make it an ideal family dog.

This breed originates from northern Italy; similar dogs were


known as far back as Roman times and are represented in many
16th-century Italian paintings. Slightly more reserved and shy than
its relative the Bichon Frise (see p.271), the Bolognese loves people
and will form a close relationship with its owner. Like the Bichon
Frise, it has a non-shedding coat.

Long, wavy coat

Distinctive,
non-shedding,
ocked coat

Tail carried high


over back

Body length
same as height
to withers

Round, blackrimmed eyes

Brown

High-set,
drop ears
Black
and
silver

Coat often
long at front,
and clipped
at back

White

Havanese

Maltese
HEIGHT Up to 10in (25cm)
WEIGHT 57lb (23kg)
LIFE SPAN Over 12 years

HEIGHT 911in (2328cm)


WEIGHT 713lb (36kg)
LIFE SPAN Over 12 years

An ancient dog from the Mediterranean, Maltese-like dogs


are mentioned in writings as far back as 300 BCE . This is a lively,
fun-loving, little dog that belies its chocolate-box appearance.
The long, silky coat is a major commitmentit does not shed
but requires daily grooming to prevent matting.

The Havanese is the national dog of Cuba, where it is known


as the Habanero. A relative of the Bichon Frise (see p.271), it
was probably brought to Cuba by Italian or Spanish traders.
The Havanese loves to be at the center of its family, plays
endlessly with children, and is also a good watchdog.

Short, cobbyor
squarebody
Tail carried
with hair
to one side
Well feathered,
long ears hang
close to head

274

High-set
tail carried
over back

Long,
silky coat

Wheaten
Drop ears, set
just above eyes

White

Any color

Soft, silky,
wavy
topcoat

Russian Toy
HEIGHT
811in
(2028cm)

WEIGHT
Up to 7lb
(3kg)

LIFE SPAN
Over 12 years

TINY TERRIER
Small dogs have always been very popular
as pets and many different breeds have been
created. One of the most recent is the Russian
Toy, which was accepted by the FCI in 2006.
It is one of the smallest breeds in the world,
and is about the same size as a Chihuahua
(see p.282). Despite
its small size, two
features of this tiny
terrier are described
as largeits dark,
expressive eyes,
and its erect,
triangular ears.

Red
Black and tan
Blue and tan

Small but not delicate, and with a big personality,


this lovable dog thrives on human company
Also known as the Russkiy Toy, this
miniature dog is descended from English
Toy Terriers (see p.211), which were rst
brought to Russia in the 18th century to
indulge the aristocracys enthusiasm for the
English way of life. This association with
nobility led to a serious drop in numbers
during the Communist Revolution of 1917.
Then in the late 1940s the decline was
further exacerbated when only dogs
with a military function were bred. A few
miniature dogs did, however, survive and
their descendents became known as the

smooth-haired Russian Toy. The long-haired


Russian Toy appeared in Moscow in 1958
when a puppy with a silky coat and fringed
ears was born to smooth-haired parents.
After the fall of the Soviet Union in
the 1980s, numbers of both the long- and
short-haired toy terriers declined again, this
time due to an inux of Western breeds.
Though both types of Russian Toy remain
rare, ofcial recognition in Russia in 1988
ensured their survival. Despite its tiny size and
fragile appearance, the Russian Toy is active
and energetic, and usually has robust health.

SMOOTHHAIRED PUPPY
Pronounced
stop
Ears fringed with
long, silky hair

Small,
round head

Round,
prominent
eyes

Long, slightly
wavy coat

Brown
and tan
Short,
close coat

Well feathered
tail extends
to hocks
Fawn
with black
overlay

Slight feathering
on back of legs

LONG-HAIRED

SMOOTH-HAIRED

Small,
oval feet

275

C ATALOG OF BREEDS

COMPANION DOGS

Poodle
HEIGHT
Toy: up to 11in (28cm)
Miniature: 1115in (2838cm)
Medium: 1518in (3845cm)

WEIGHT
Toy: 79lb (34kg)
Miniature: 1518lb (78kg)
Medium: 4677lb (2135kg)

LIFE SPAN
Over 12 years

This highly intelligent, extroverted dog with a natural talent


to amuse, is active, agile, and quick to learn
The smaller sizes of Poodle that
exist today are based on the Poodle
(see p.229), and came into existence only
a short time after the Poodle emerged,
by deliberate downsizing of the larger dogs.
Poodlelike dogs appear in engravings by
German artist Albrecht Drer, from the late
15th to early 16th century. These little
poodles have always been companion dogs;
highly popular in the French court between
the reigns of Louis XIV and Louis XVI,
they were also favorites in the Spanish court,
and entered England in the
18th century. Small
poodles were introduced
to the US in the late
19th century but
did not become
popular until the
1950s; however,

today they are one of the most well-loved


breeds in the US. The most widely
recognized of the small Poodles are the
Miniature and Toy. Another size,
recognized by the FCI, is the Medium
Poodle (also known as the Klein Poodle or
Moyen Poodle), which is intermediate in size
between the Standard and Miniature.
One unusual use for small Poodles has
been as circus dogstheir intelligence
makes them easy to train for a wide variety
of tricks. It has been suggested that circus
life as well as the show ring has given
rise to the variety of fancy poodle clips.
The Poodle is energetic, intelligent,
affectionate, and eager to please.
A sensitive dog, it tends to bond most
closely with one person. The coat is
non-shedding, although it does need
regular brushing and clipping.

Any solid color

CLIPPING STYLES
Poodles need to have their coats clipped
because they do not shed hair. In most clips,
some parts of the coat are left long while others
are shaved. The original styles for working
Poodles (see p.229) were designed to protect
the legs from undergrowth and keep the vital
organs warm, while the face, hindquarters, and
upper legs were shaved for cleanliness and ease
of movement. Showing, performance, and
professional grooming have given rise to a
number of clips, two of which are shown in
the 19th-century engraving below.

PUPPY
Moderate
stop

Low-set,
long, drop
ears

Short, strong back

Apricot

Clipped, woolly
coat slightly
longer on legs

Small, oval
feet covered
by hair
MINIATURE

277

C ATALOG OF BREEDS | COMPANION DOGS

Kyi Leo
HEIGHT 911in (2328cm)
WEIGHT 913lb (46kg)
LIFE SPAN 1315 years

Variety of colors
May have tan markings.

A playful, affectionate American breed that is gaining popularity, the


Kyi Leo is named after its parents: Kyi, Tibetan for dog, after its Lhasa
Apso parent from Tibet; and Leo, Latin for lion, after its Maltese
parent, which was once called the
Lion Dog. Suited to indoor
life, this alert dog makes
a good watchdog.

Long hair
covers eyes

Tail curls over


back when alert

Body length
exceeds
leg length

Long, thick,
silky coat

Heavily
feathered,
drop ears

Short
muzzle
with beard

Black
and white

Rounded
feet with hair
between toes

Cavalier King Charles Spaniel


HEIGHT 1213in (3033cm)
WEIGHT 1118lb (58kg)
LIFE SPAN Over 12 years

Prince Charles (right)


Ruby
White lozenge
mark on head

A relative of the English Toy Spaniel (opposite), ancestors of


this breed date back centuries. With large, dark eyes, a melting
expression, and an ever-wagging tail, the Cavalier King Charles
Spaniel is game, easy to train, and loves childrenmaking it the
perfect family pet. Its silky coat requires regular grooming.

Blenheim

Long, silky,
well feathered coat
with slight wave

High-set,
pendant ears
King Charles

Short muzzle

Feathering on
back of legs

278

English Toy Spaniel


HEIGHT
1011in
(2527cm)

WEIGHT
913lb
(46kg)

LIFE SPAN
Over 12 years

A ROYAL FAVORITE
King Charles II of England (163085) doted on his
companion dogs, which were allowed to roam all
over the palace, even on state occasions. (Anthony
van Dycks painting, below, shows Charles while
still a child with two of his siblings and two of the
treasured dogs.) The diarist Samuel Pepys noted
how much the king loved themeven his silliness
in playing with his dog instead of attending to
business in meetings. The kings strong attachment
remains to this day, as the descendants of his dogs
are called King Charles Spaniels.

Ruby
King Charles

Naturally well behaved and eager to please, this dog


makes a gentle and affectionate companion
Also known as the King Charles Spaniel,
this British breed is related to the Cavalier
King Charles Spaniel (opposite), although
the latter is a more recent breed. The
ancestors of the English Toy Spaniel were
rst seen in European and English royal
courts in the 16th century, and thought
to be descended from small Chinese and
Japanese breeds.
The original comforters looked like
other spaniels, and some were used for
hunting. From the late 18th century they
were crossed with the Pug (see p.268) to
give a fashionably short nose and became
exclusively lap dogs. By the end of the

19th century there were four varieties: the


King Charles (black and tan in color);
the Blenheim (red and white); the Ruby
(deep red); and the Prince Charles (white
with black and tan markings). All four
types were reclassied as one breedthe
English Toy Spaniel in 1903.
The modern English Toy Spaniel is
a quiet, obedient, but playful dog and
makes an excellent family pet. The breed
lives quite happily in a small home and
needs only moderate exercise. It loves
company, so should not be left alone for
long periods. The long coat requires
grooming every few days.

Short, upturned
muzzle with large,
wide nostrils
Very
pronounced
stop
Characteristic
domed head
Pendant ears

Prince Charles

Long,
silky coat

Slightly undershot
jaw (lower jaw
longer than upper)

Blenheim
Well padded
feet

Tan
markings
on legs

279

Ready for action


The alert expression, muscular body,
and tail carriage of this Chinese Crested
epitomize its playful personality. The
long, owing head crest and fringed
ears add to its appeal.

Chinese Crested
HEIGHT
913in
(2333cm)

WEIGHT
Up to 11lb
(5kg)

LIFE SPAN
12 years

GYPSY ROSE LEE


One of the rst breeders of the modern Chinese
Crested dog was the famous American burlesque
performer Gypsy Rose Lee. Lee rst encountered
the breed when her sister gave her a Chinese
Crested dog that she had rescued from an
animal shelter. Lee (below, left) included the dog
in her act, thus helping to publicize the breed.
She also founded the Lee breeding kennels
for Chinese Crested dogs in the 1950s, and
established one of the two main bloodlines
that exist today.

Any color

This elegant, intelligent dog attracts attention wherever


it goes, but doesnt require a lot of outdoor exercise
Hairlessness is a feature of several dog
breeds around the world. It is the result of a
genetic mutation that was initially considered
a curiosity but then became desirable since
the breed did not harbor eas, shed hair,
or have body odor. Although the Chinese
Crested requires little grooming, its bare skin
is sensitive: in winter it needs a coat to keep
it warm, and in summer requires protection
from the intense heat of the sun, which can
burn and dry out its skin. This delicate skin,
combined with the fact that the breed needs
little exercise and activity, makes it unsuitable
for owners who spend a lot of time outdoors.
However, it is an ideal companion dog for
older people due to its happy and friendly
nature and playful personality.

The variety of Chinese Crested that does


have hairthe Powderpuffhas a long,
soft coat that needs regular grooming
to prevent matting. Both coat varieties can
occur in the same litter. Some Chinese
Crested dogs are more lightly built than
others. These ne-boned individuals are
referred to as the deer type, while Chinese
Crested dogs that have a heavier build are
known as the cobby type.

Large,
erect ears

Fine-grained,
smooth skin

Plume of hair on
lower section of tail

Dark brown
with white
markings

Long,
soft coat

POWDERPUFF
VARIETY

Distinctive
stop

Long, owing crest


extends from stop
to base of neck
Blue

Sock of white
hair encircles
lower legs and feet

281

C ATALOG OF BREEDS | COMPANION DOGS

Chihuahua
HEIGHT
69in
(1523cm)

LIFE SPAN
Over 12 years

WEIGHT
57lb
(23kg)

Any color
Always a single colornever dappled or merle.

This companionable, intelligent, tiny dog with a large-dog


personality makes a devoted pet
The smallest dog breed in the world, the
Chihuahua is named after the Mexican state
where it was discovered in the 1850s. It is
most probably descended from the Techichi,
a small, mute dog kept by the indigenous
Toltec people (c.8001000 CE) and sometimes
eaten or sacriced in religious rituals.
Little dogs were known to explorer
Christopher Columbus and to the Spanish
conquistadors by the 15th16th century.
Chihuahuas were rst imported to the US
in the 1890s, and the AKC recognized the
breed in 1904. In the 1930s and 40s stars
such as actress Lupe Velez and bandleader
Xavier Cugat made the Chihuahua
fashionable as a lap dog, and it is now
one of the most popular breeds in the US.

The Chihuahua typically has an apple


head (short nose and rounded skull).
There are two main varieties: short-haired
and long-haired. Both coats need only
minimal grooming.
The breed makes a lovable companion
dog and often becomes very attached
to its owner. It benets from short walks
and games every day. It is not usually
recommended for children; adult owners
should take care to treat it as a dog rather
than a toy or fashion accessory.

GIDGETTHE TACO BELL DOG


In 1997 a Chihuahua named Gidget was chosen
as the mascot for the Taco Bell Tex-Mex food
chain. Gidget was a female, although the
character she played in advertisements had
a male human voice with a Mexican accent. She
became a superstar and made the brand hugely
popular. Once the advertising campaign ended
in 2000, Gidget appeared in further commercials
as well as a movie (Legally Blonde 2: Red, White,
& Blonde). She died in 2009 at age 15.

Large, triangular,
batlike ears

Distinctive
apple-shaped head
Medium-length tail
carried high over back

Smooth,
glossy topcoat

Large, round eyes

Fawn

Red
Coat has
lighter
underparts

Small,
dainty feet

LONG-HAIRED

SHORT-HAIRED

282

COMPANION DOGS

Tibetan Spaniel
HEIGHT 10in (25cm)
WEIGHT 915lb (47kg )
LIFE SPAN Over 12 years

Any color
Expressive, oval,
dark brown eyes

Head small in
proportion to body

This small dog has a delightful, easy-going temperament. Bred and


owned by the monks of Tibet, the Tibetan Spaniel has a long history
and was rst brought to the UK around 1900 by returning medical
missionaries. In spite of its slightly haughty expression, this dog is
only too happy to run around
a yard and play.
Feathered,
pendant ears

Sable
White
chest

Tibetan Terrier
HEIGHT 1416in (3641cm)
WEIGHT 1831lb (814kg)
LIFE SPAN Over 10 years

Variety of colors

Resembling a miniature Old English Sheepdog


(see p.56), the Tibetan Terrier was originally
bred for herding and was also used as a
guard dog for traders journeying to and
from China. This medium-sized dog
requires a rm hand, but the reward
is a loyal, devoted companion. The
long coat needs daily grooming.

Long hair
falls over
eyes

Feathered tail
curls over back
Caramel
and white

Silky topcoat

Feathering covers
round, snowshoelike feet

283

C ATALOG OF BREEDS | COMPANION DOGS

North American
Shepherd

Japanese Chin
HEIGHT 811in (2028cm )
WEIGHT 57lb (23kg )
LIFE SPAN Over 10 years

Red and white

Ancestors of the Japanese Chin are thought to have been a royal


gift from China to the Emperor of Japan. This dog was bred
especially to warm the laps and hands of the ladies of Japans
Imperial Palace. Happy living in a small space, it makes an
ideal apartment dog but its profuse coat sheds heavily.

Feathered
tail curves
over back

Upturned
nose

Compact,
square
body

HEIGHT 1318in (3346cm)


WEIGHT 1531lb (714kg)
LIFE SPAN 1213 years

Red merle
Blue merle

Downsized from the Australian Shepherd (see p.68)


by American breeders, this dog is sometimes called
the Miniature Australian Shepherd. It is highly
intelligent, easy to train, and very good with children.
The North American Shepherd is eager to please,
but can be quite destructive
if left on its own for long
periods of time.

Drop ears

Black
Symmetrical
marking on
domed head
Well feathered tail
Brown
eyes
Long, straight,
silky coat

Black and
white

Coat has tan and


white markings

Danish-Swedish Farmdog
HEIGHT 1315in (3237cm)
WEIGHT 1526lb (712kg)
LIFE SPAN 1015 years

Tricolor

This working dog has historically been used on farms


in Denmark and Sweden as a herder, watchdog, and
ratter, as well as a companion. Always eager to play,
the Danish-Swedish Farmdog is good with children,
so can make a great family dog, but it does have
a tendency to chase
small animals.

Rounded croup

White
muzzle and
blaze

High-set,
button ears

Triangular-shaped
head is small in
relation to body

White with
tan patches
Short, smooth coat

284

COMPANION DOGS

Himalayan Sheepdog
HEIGHT 2025in (5163cm)
WEIGHT 5160lb (2327kg)
LIFE SPAN 1011 years

Also known as the Bhotia, this


rare dog from the foothills of the
Himalayas is related to the larger
Tibetan Mastiff (see p.80), but
its exact origins and former uses
are obscure. This is a powerful
dog with a strong herding
instinct. Kept as a family pet,
it is a good companion and
an efcient guard dog.

Gold
Black
Black and tan (right)

Drop ears
lie close
to head
Level back

Creamy
white
Long, coarse
topcoat

Thick,
bushy tail

Catlike feet

Thai Ridgeback
HEIGHT 2024in (5161cm)
WEIGHT 5175lb (2334kg)
LIFE SPAN 1012 years

Muzzle longer
than skull

Isabella
Red
Blue

An old breed and unknown outside Thailand until the mid-1970s, the Thai
Ridgeback has since gained recognition in other countries. It was used for
hunting, to follow carts, and as a guard dog. Its earlier geographic isolation
has resulted in most of its original natural instincts and drives remaining,
since there were few chances for it to breed with other dogs. Today, it is
primarily kept as a companion dog, and is naturally
protective of its home and family. It can make
a loyal, loving pet, but is often suspicious
Slightly
of other dogs, and can be aggressive or
wrinkled
Erect
shy if not properly socialized.
forehead
ears

Ridge of hair on back lies


in opposite direction
to rest of coat

Black
Short,
smooth
coat

285

C ATALOG OF BREEDS | COMPANION DOGS

Dalmatian
HEIGHT
2224in
(5661cm)

WEIGHT
4060lb
(1827kg)

LIFE SPAN
Over 10 years

White with liver spots

This playful and easy-going dog makes a good family pet,


but needs plenty of exercise and persistent training
The Dalmatian is the only spotted dog
in existence today. Its ancestry is unclear,
although spotted dogs have been known
since ancient times in Europe, Africa, and
Asia. The FCI has dened the breeds area
of origin as Dalmatia, a region of Croatia
on the eastern coast of the Adriatic Sea.
The breed has had many uses, including
as a hunting dog, a dog of war, and a guard
for livestock. The Dalmatian was especially
popular in the UK during the early 19th
century, when it was known as the carriage
dog because it was trained to run under
or beside horse-drawn carriages, often
traveling very long distances. As well as
looking elegant, it protected the horses
and carriage from marauding stray dogs.
In the US the Dalmatian was used
as a re-house dog, running with the
horse-drawn re engines and barking to
clear the way for them. Some re stations

still keep Dalmatians as mascots. The


breed is also an emblem of the American
Anheuser-Busch beer company, often seen
running beside the wagons pulled by the
famous Clydesdale horses.
The Dalmatian is intelligent, friendly,
and outgoing. It loves human company and
still has an afnity with horses. However,
it does have a great deal of energy and can
be stubborn and aggressive with other
dogs, so an owner needs to give
it an active lifestyle and dedicate
time to training.
The puppies are born pure
white, and the black or
liver spots only start to
appear from about
four weeks of
age. The white
coat sheds a
great deal.

Black spots
are round and
clearly dened

Tail tapers
from base
to tip

101 DALMATIANS
The 1956 childrens book The Hundred and One
Dalmatians by Dodie Smith tells the story of a
litter of Dalmatians that is kidnapped by the evil
Cruella De Vil, to be skinned and turned into
coats. They are, fortunately, rescued by their
parents, Pongo and Perdita. Dalmatians became
hugely popular thanks to the two Walt Disney
lms that followed. However, many new owners
lacked the experience to cope with this energetic
breed, and countless Dalmatians were
abandoned and ended up in rescue shelters.

Round, catlike feet


with well arched
toes

PUPPY

286

COMPANION DOGS
Clearly dened stop

White with
black spots

High-set, drop
ears taper to
rounded points

Black nose

Short, dense,
glossy coat

287

Goldendoodle
This attractive dog is a cross between
a Poodle and a Golden Retriever. The
characteristics of the Poodle parent are
clearly evident.

CROSSBREEDS

CROSSBREEDS
Dogs of mixed breeding vary from the so-called designer dogs, with purebred parents of two
different recognized breeds, to the bit-of-everything type, the result of accidental, random crosses
(see p.298). Some designer hybrids are now extremely fashionable. They are mostly given whimsical
combination names, such as Cockerpoo (a Cocker Spaniel-Poodle cross).
One of the reasons for creating
modern hybrid dogs was to mix
the desired characteristics from one
breed with the non-shedding coat of
another. A cross of this type currently
enjoying great popularity is the
Labradoodle (see p.291), a mixture of
Labrador Retriever (see p.260) and
Poodle (see p.229). However,
even when the parents are readily
recognized breeds such as these, it
may be impossible to predict which
side of the family the puppies will
favor. Labradoodles, for example,
show little consistency from litter
to litter, some puppies inheriting
the curly poodle coat while others
are more obviously inuenced by
the Labrador parent. Such lack of
standardization is common in designer

crosses, although occasionally it has


proved possible to produce a standard
and attempt to breed dogs to type. An
example of this is the Lucas Terrier
(see p.293), the result of crossing the
Sealyham Terrier (see p.189) and
the Norfolk Terrier (see p.192).
Currently, few such crosses have
achieved ofcial breed recognition.
Deliberate mixing of two specic
breeds to produce particular
characteristics has proliferated since
the end of the 20th century, but is by
no means a modern trend. One of the
best-known crossbreeds, the Lurcher
(see p.290), has been around for several
hundred years. This dog combines the
qualities of speedy sight hounds, such
as the Greyhound (see p.126) and
Whippet (see p.128), with desirable

traits found in other breeds, such


as the collies enthusiasm for work,
and the tenacity of the terrier.
Prospective owners of a crossbreed,
designer dog should take into account
the personalities and temperaments
of both breeds involved in the mix.
These may be very different and either
one might predominate. It is also
important to consider both parent
dogs requirements for general care
and exercise.
All crossbred dogs are commonly
believed to be more intelligent than
pedigree dogs, but there is no sound
evidence for this. Random breeds
are often said to be healthier than
purebreds, and it is true that they are
at much lower risk of the inherited
diseases prevalent in some breeds.

289

C ATALOG OF BREEDS | CROSSBREEDS

Lurcher
HEIGHT 2228in (5571cm)
WEIGHT 6071lb (2732kg)
LIFE SPAN 1314 years

Any color

Famed as a poachers dog and used to hunt rabbit and


hare, Lurchers were traditionally rst-generation
crosses of a sight hound with a terrier or
a herding dog. Today they are also
bred with each other and ideally
are greyhound size. In the home
Lurchers are peaceful and tolerant
and make ne family companions.

Blue merle

Round eyes
give alert
expression

Fine,
pointed
muzzle

Long,
slender
legs

Rough coat

Slight
feathering
on tail

Belly distinctly
tucked up

Cockerpoo
HEIGHT Toy: Up to 10in (25cm); Miniature: 1114in (2835cm); Standard: Over 15in (38cm)
WEIGHT Toy: Up to 11lb (5kg); Miniature: 1320lb (69kg); Standard: Over 22lb (10kg)
LIFE SPAN 1415 years

Most Cockerpoos are first-generation crosses


of a Toy or Miniature Poodle (see p.276)
with a Cocker Spaniel or sometimes
English Cocker Spaniel (see pp.222
23). They are particularly valued for
their tractable and affectionate
characters. Their appearance is
a variable mix of the parent breeds,
but always with a wavy coat that
sheds very little.

Any color

Large, round,
dark eyes
Square and
compact body

Long hair
on muzzle

Drop ears covered


with long, silky hair
Light fawn

Tail usually
feathered

290

STANDARD

Large paws
covered
with hair

Labradoodle
HEIGHT
Miniature: 1416in (3641cm)
Medium: 1720in (4351cm)
Standard: 2124in (5361cm)

WEIGHT
Miniature: 1524lb (711kg)
Medium: 3144lb (1420kg)
Standard: 5165lb (2329kg)

DONALD CAMPBELLS DOG


Individual crosses between the Poodle and the
Labrador Retriever were known before the
founding of the Labradoodle as a breed. One
such dog belonged to Donald Campbell, CBE
(below, left), who set land and water speed
records in Britain in the 1950s and 60s. In his
1955 autobiography, Into the Water Barrier,
Campbell referred to his beloved Maxie, a
Labrador-Poodle cross born in 1949, as
a Labradoodlelong before breeder
Wally Conron used the name in Australia.

LIFE SPAN
1415 years

Any color

Increasingly popular, this dogs reliably playful, affectionate,


and intelligent temperament reects its parentage
This hybrid dog was founded when Wally
Conron of Guide Dogs Victoria, Australia,
received a request from a vision-impaired
woman in Hawaii who needed a guide dog
that would not aggravate her husbands
dog allergy. Conron mated a Poodle
(a breed with a coat suitable for people
with allergies) with a Labrador Retriever
guide dog. One of the resulting puppies,
a male named Sultan, had the required
non-irritating coat and a good
temperament. He became the rst
recognized Labradoodle, a cross between
the Labrador Retriever (see p.260) and
Poodles (see pp.229, 276).

In Australia the Labradoodle is on its way


to becoming a pedigree breed. Elsewhere it
remains a crossbreed, with no ofcial status
but in huge demand.
First-generation crosses vary in
appearance; later Labradoodle-only
breedings are more predictable. There
are now two main Labradoodle varieties,
distinguished by coat type: wool coat
(tightly curled like a Poodles) and
eece coat (long and loosely curled).
The Labradoodle has rapidly gained
popularity as a family dog. The dogs
friendly, intelligent nature attracts owners
as much as its appearance.

Large, round,
dark eyes

Apricot
Drop ears

Body slightly
heavier than a
Poodle (see p.229)
Long,
curved tail

Cream underparts

Tucked-up
belly
Curly coat has
little dander

STANDARD

Medium-sized,
round feet

291

C ATALOG OF BREEDS | CROSSBREEDS

Bichon Yorkie
HEIGHT 912in (2331cm)
WEIGHT 713lb (36kg)
LIFE SPAN 1315 years

Variety of colors

Dark nose

Some crossbreeds are created deliberately,


but the rst Bichon Frise (see p.271)
and Yorkshire Terrier (see p.190) mix
was a happy accident that breeders
have chosen to repeat. The result
is the Bichon Yorkiea dog that is
usually larger than the diminutive
Yorkshire Terrier, with the feisty
spirit of its terrier parent
tempered by the more
compliant nature of
the Bichon Frise.

High-set
ears

Round, dark eyes


Double-layered,
silky, curly coat

Darker,
plumed tail
Orange
and white

Round,
tight feet

Bull Boxer

Small, semi-erect,
drop ears

HEIGHT 1621in (4153cm)


WEIGHT 3753lb (1724kg)
LIFE SPAN 1213 years

Any color

The Bull Boxer is a cross between the laid-back Boxer


(see p.90) and bullbaiting dogs such as the Staffordshire
Bull Terrier (see p.214), which is highly popular but may
be difcult with other pets. The Bull Boxer occupies
the middle ground in size and character.
This dog needs commitment,
but rewards its owner well.
Rounded eyes have
alert expression

Black

Long,
tapering,
curved
tail

Broad, deep,
white chest
Smooth,
shiny, short,
dense coat

White markings
on feet

292

Legs longer than


Staffordshire
Bull Terriers
(see p.214)

Lucas Terrier
HEIGHT
912in
(2330cm)

WEIGHT
1120lb
(59kg)

LIFE SPAN
1415 years

White
Tan coats may have a black or badger-gray saddle. White
coats may be marked with black, badger-gray, and/or tan.

This friendly, non-yappy terrier thrives on long walks


and gets along well with children and other pets
This rare working terrier was produced in
the 1940s by crossing Norfolk Terriers (see
p.192) with Sealyham Terriers (see p.189).
The Lucas Terrier is named after its rst
breeder, Sir Jocelyn Lucas, a British
politician and sportsman who wanted to
develop a hunting dog that was smaller
and more nimble than the Sealyham
Terrier. From the 1960s Lucas Terriers
were also exported to the US, where they
proved popular with a variety of people,
including Hollywood stars.
After the death of Sir Jocelyn and his
business partner, the Hon. Enid Plummer,
a breed society was set up in the UK in 1987

to promote and improve the Lucas Terrier.


The Lucas Terrier Club created a breed
standard in 1988 and in recent years has
been trying to obtain ofcial recognition
to date unsuccessfully. There are now
believed to be around 400 of these dogs
in the UK and around 100 in the US.
Today the Lucas Terrier is kept mainly as
a companion dog. Biddable, smart, and eager
to please, the breed is easy to train. It is also
good with children and well behaved in the
house, provided it has a vigorous daily walk.
It has typical terrier traits, such as enjoying
play and loving to dig, but is less inclined to
bark than many other terrier breeds.

Almond-shaped,
dark eyes

Thick-rooted,
well furred tail

CREATING A WORKING
TERRIER
Sir Jocelyn Lucas was a well-known Sealyham
breeder who was unhappy about the increase
in size and weight of show dogs. Not only were
they no longer suited to the work for which they
were bred, but his dogs also sometimes had
whelping problems when crossed with show
dogs. As a result, he decided to outcross his
dogs with Norfolk Terriers when he bred from
them for the rst time. He was so impressed
with the puppies from
these matings that
he continued
breeding them,
and in doing
so created the
Lucas Terrier.

SIR JOCELYN
LUCAS WITH
MINIATURE
SEALYHAM
PUPPIES

Small, V-shaped ears

Body length
exceeds
leg length

Black
nose

Long hair forms


mustache and beard

Medium-length,
coarse coat

Light tan

293

C ATALOG OF BREEDS | CROSSBREEDS

Goldendoodle
HEIGHT
Up to 24in
(61cm)

WEIGHT
5190lb
(2341kg)

LIFE SPAN
1015 years

ALLERGY SUFFERERS DOG


The Goldendoodle is often spoken of as a
hypoallergenic or non-shedding dog suitable
for people who normally have allergies to
dogs. While there is no such thing as a truly
hypoallergenic dog (that is, rarely or never
causing allergies), Goldendoodles do shed
more lightly than other breeds, especially those
Goldendoodles with curly or wavy coats, and
their skin sheds less dander. This may make them
more suitable as pets for people who are known
to have allergic reactions to dogs (or dog hair).

Any color

A delightful new crossbreed, this dog is sociable


and easy to train and a pleasure to live with
One of the newest designer dogs,
this mixture of the Poodle and the Golden
Retriever (see p.259) was rst bred in the
US and Australia in the 1990s. Since then
the Goldendoodles growing popularity
has encouraged breeders elsewhere to
continue its development. The original
standard Goldendoodles were crosses
between the Standard Poodle (see p.229)
and the Golden Retriever, but from 1999
smaller medium, miniature, and
petite Goldendoodles have been bred,
with the smaller sizes having Miniature
Poodle or Toy Poodle parents (see p.276).
Most of these dogs are rst-generation
crosses and vary considerably in appearance.
Goldendoodles may also be crossbred with

each other, or bred back to Poodles.


There are three coat types: straight, like
a Golden Retrievers coat; curly, like a
Poodles coat; and wavy, with loose,
shaggy curls.
Goldendoodles are in demand as guide
dogs, assistance dogs, and therapy dogs,
and for search and rescue work. They
are also hugely popular as pets; in 2012
US musician Usher bid $12,000 for a
Goldendoodle puppy at a charity auction.
Energetic but gentle, Goldendoodles are
usually easy to train. They get along well
with children and other pets and love
human company.
Dark eyes with
kind expression

Well-dened stop

Drop ears
slightly darker
than rest of coat

Brown nose

Darker saddle
of hair

Thick,
curly coat

Apricot
Slightly
tucked-up belly

Heavily
feathered
tail

294

Front feet
larger than
back feet

Labradinger
HEIGHT
1822in
(4656cm)

WEIGHT
5590lb
(2541kg)

LIFE SPAN
1014 years

TREO, THE ARMY DOG


A Spaniel-Labrador cross named Treo has
become a military hero for his work with the
British Army in Afghanistan. Treo was originally
given to the army because of his tendency to
snap and growl at people. However, he went on
to distinguish himself as an arms and explosives
detection dog, working with handler Sergeant
Dave Heyhoe. On two occasions he detected
chains of roadside bombs planted
by the Taliban, enabling the
bombs to be defused and
saving many lives. He was
awarded the Dickin
Medalthe Animals
Victoria Cross
for his bravery.

Yellow
Liver
Chocolate

This attractive all-arounder is suitable as both a gundog


and family dog, given sufcient exercise
A cross between the Labrador Retriever
(see p.260) and the English Springer Spaniel
(see p.224), this dog is also sometimes known
as the Springador. Unplanned mixing of
these two breeds is likely to have occurred
for centuries on traditional country estates
where such gundogs were kept. Beneting
from recent interest in designer
crossbreeds such as the Labradoodle
(see p.291), the Labradinger has now
acquired both popularity and a name.
Labradingers vary in appearance, but
they tend to be smaller and lighter in build
than a Labrador Retriever, with a slightly

TREO AND
HANDLER
SERGEANT DAVE
HEYHOE POSE
WITH DICKIN
MEDAL

ner-featured head. They are larger than an


English Springer Spaniel, with longer legs.
The coat may be straight and at, or a bit
longer and more rufed.
The Labradinger is an excellent gundog
that can be trained both to retrieve like a
Labrador and to ush game as a spaniel does.
It is also proving very successful as a family
dog. These dogs are intelligent, fun-loving,
affectionate, and highly people-oriented.
They need lots of company and plenty of
exercise every day, including walks and
games, to prevent them from becoming
bored and developing behavioral problems.

Amber eyes

Drop ears with


rounded tips
Slight stop

Level back

Thick tail
extends to
hock
Black

White
marking on
deep chest

Soft,
wavy coat

Compact feet with


well arched toes

295

C ATALOG OF BREEDS

CROSSBREEDS

Puggle
HEIGHT
1015in
(2538cm)

A CELEBRITY PET

WEIGHT
1531lb
(714kg)

LIFE SPAN
1013 years

Red or tan
Lemon
Black

Any of these colors with


white (particolor). May
have black mask.

A sweet-tempered, intelligent dog that makes an ideal


family companion if given sufcient exercise
One of the most newly created designer
dogs, the Puggle is a cross between a Pug
(see p.268) and a Beagle (see p.152). These
dogs were developed in the US in the 1990s.
The breeders original goal was to produce
a dog with a Pugs compact size and a
Beagles sweet nature, but without some
of the health problems that can afict Pugs.
The new crossbreed is now registered with
the American Canine Hybrid Club.
In recent years the Puggle has seen a huge
rise in popularity. It was named in the US
media as the Hottest Dog of
2005 and has been an
enormous hit with celebrities
and Hollywood stars. In
2006 Puggles accounted for

more than 50 percent of sales of crossbred


dogs. The Puggle is now the most popular
crossbreed in the US and in 2013 puppies
were sold for as much as $1,000 each.
The Puggle looks like a snub-nosed Beagle,
and often has a curly tail and black facial
mask like a Pug. Easy to train, it makes a
lively and affectionate family dog, bonding
easily with its owners and loving human
company. It is good with children and readily
accepts strangers and other dogs. Because it
will easily adapt to living in an apartment, it
is particularly popular in urban areas such as
Los Angeles and New York. The Puggle
needs daily walks, including games, to keep
happy. The short-haired coat requires little
grooming, aside from a weekly brushing.

The Puggles meteoric rise to fame has been


helped by the huge celebrity interest in the dog.
Stars such as James Gandolni, Jake Gyllenhaal,
Uma Thurman, and renowned dog-lover Henry
Winkler (below) are just a few of those who own
a Puggle. In taking the dogs with them to parties,
TV shows, and media events, and being
photographed with them, celebrities have helped
introduce the Puggle to the public. People
wanted to know what this unusual dog was and
some then went further and purchased one.

Very pronounced
stop

Square body

Drop ears with


some black hairs

YOUNG DOG

Lighter-colored
chest and throat

Short, dark
muzzle

Fawn

Short, smooth
double coat

Compact,
round feet

297

C ATALOGUE OF BREEDS | R ANDOM BREEDS

Random Breeds

DOGS WITH UNKNOWN


ANCESTORS

These dogs may lack a pedigree but they


can provide love, companionship, and fun
Dogs with random breeding are usually of
unknown ancestry, with the parents themselves
likely to be the result of accidental mixings.
Choosing a random-bred puppy is a bit of a
lottery for prospective owners as it is difcult to
predict what the dog will look like at maturity.
But random-bred dogs tend to be healthier than
pedigree dogs as there is less likelihood of an
inheritable genetic disorder being passed on.
Many rescue centre dogs are random crossbreds;
in the majority of cases they make excellent pets.
Semi-long, soft coats
Dogs that may have collies
or spaniels among their
ancestors often have silky
coats with feathered legs, and
fringed ears that are either
semi-erect or hang down
close to their heads.

Head is like that of a


Labrador Retriever (see p.260)

High-set, drop ears


with fringed edges

Smooth, silky
coat like a
Border Collies
(see p.51)

Silky coat with


feathering
resembles
a spaniels

Feathered legs
with tan markings

Asymmetrical black
patches less acceptable
in pedigree dogs
Semi-erect ears

Semi-long, wavy coat


is typical of a collie

Short hair on
front of forelegs

298

Longer hair on
underside of neck
and on chest

R ANDOM BREEDS

High-set, erect ears

Ears are part


semi-erect,
part rose

Wiry and curly coats


Dogs with wiry and curly
coats may resemble sight
hounds, terriers, or some
of the pastoral breeds, but
without analysing their
DNA it is impossible to be
sure of their genealogy.

Wiry coat

Longer, coarser
hairs on muzzle
and chin
Deep chest

Body
shape of a
Greyhound
(see p.126)

Long hair on face


does not cover eyes
Shaggy coat
over entire
body

Soft, curly
coat interspersed
with darker hairs,
especially on ears

Coat resembles
that of
soft-coated
terriers
Coat suggests
contributions from
both terrier
and Poodle
(see pp.229, 276)

Short, double coat


These three dogs all have a short
double coat but are otherwise
quite different in appearance.
The black dog has afnities
with the Labrador Retriever
(see p.260), whereas
the dog on the far
right is more like a
German Shepherd
Dog (see p.42).

Drop ears
small relative
to head size

Marbled coat
and drop ears are
like those of a
Norwegian Hound
(see p.156)

Thick,
strong
neck

Powerful
forequarters

Large feet

Long,
big-boned
forelegs

299

C ATALOG OF BREEDS | R ANDOM BREEDS

Wide cheeks support


short, powerful jaws

Large, button
ears give alert
expression

Large head
with wide-set,
semierect ears

Stocky, muscular body


Dark
muzzle
Short, hard
coat

Short, single coat


The shorter, wider jaws and
short, harsh coat of these dogs
suggest a link with dogs such
as the Staffordshire Bull Terrier
(see p.214). The dog on the
far right is much smaller than
the other two but still has
terrierlike qualities.

Size, body shape,


and color are
suggestive of a
Boxer (see p.90)
ancestor

Short legs
Dogs can be downsized by selective breeding from the
smallest dogs but short legs may also occur when dogs breed
at random. Short-legged dogs may display achondroplasia
(dwarsm), which causes curving of the front leg bones. Dogs
with short legs can have any type of coat.

High-set ears
covered with wiry hair

Large head with pronounced


stop and relatively
short muzzle
Dense double coat
typical of spitz dogs

Long, thickly furred


tail carried high

Strongly curved
front legs
(achondroplasia)
Typical terrier
appearance

Hair shorter
on legs than
on body

Semi-long, silky,
tricolor coat
Look and coloring
of a Jack Russell
(see p.196), but not
the coat type

Soft, curly coat


covers head and body

Large, wide-set ears

Face and body


shape bears a
strong resemblance
to a corgi (pp.58, 60)

Short, smooth
double coat

Slightly curved front legs

300

Leg position suggests


curving associated
with achondroplasia
(dwarsm)

Enjoying life to the full


Given a good home with sufcient
mental and physical activity, dogs
such as this terrierlike random breed
will be just as rewarding to own as
a pedigree dog.

CARE AND
TRAINING

CHAPTER 3

Happy beginning
Decide what your needs area puppy
or older dog, maybe from a rescue
shelter, and what size, sex, and breed.
Making the right choice beforehand is
key to a long and fullling partnership.

BECOMING A DOG OWNER

Becoming a dog owner


A dog can be a wonderful addition to your family, but bringing a new pet into your
life is a responsibility that requires preparation and planning. Consider what kind
of dog will best suit your needs and make sure your home is a safe environment.
FIRST CONSIDERATIONS
Before buying or adopting a dog, you
need to have a clear understanding of
what you are taking on. A dog can live
for up to 18 years and you need to be
committed to caring for your pet over
his entire life span.
Ask yourself some pertinent questions:
Do you, or anyone else at home, have the
time to train and play with a puppy? Can
you afford to keep a dog? Is your home
environment suitable? Do you have other
pets or very young children? Is anyone in
your home allergic to dogs?
Think carefully about what kind of
dog you want by nding out about
suitable breeds. Even if you are drawn
to a particular breed for its appearance,
bear in mind that temperament is more
important than looks. Could you cope
with an active dog with lots of energy?
Do you need a dog that is good with
children? Large dogs often require a lot of
care and training and food, all of which
can be expensive. Would a smaller dog
better suit your lifestyle and surroundings?

Would you prefer a male dog or a bitch?


Dogs tend to be more affectionate with
people but can be easily distracted during
training. Un-neutered dogs can be
aggressive. Bitches are often considered
calmer with children.
What age is best? A puppy will learn to t
in with your familys routine as he grows
up but at rst he will need extra care and
should not be left alone for long periods.
If everyone is out of the house all day, you
may be better off adopting an adult dog.
A common way to acquire an adult dog
is from a rescue center. Some rescue shelters
are run by welfare charities and place dogs
of many sizes and ages. Others specialize in
particular dog breeds that have special
issues, such as greyhounds after the end of
their racing career, or dogs with specic care
and training needs, such as Dobermanns
(see p.176) and Staffordshire Bull Terriers
(see p.214). Most breed societies run a breed
rescue service.
At a rescue center the dogs temperaments
will have been assessed. Many of their dogs
have had difcult experiences, such as being

abandoned or neglected, so staff will be


eager to see that they go to a loving and
protective home. You may have to ll in
an application form, attend an interview
(possibly with other family members), and
have your home inspected by the staff before
they allow you to adopt a dog. In return, you
can ask questions and meet dogs suitable for
your lifestyle. The staff will advise you on
care, veterinary, and behavioral issues.
LEGAL POINTS
You are responsible for your pets welfare
and, in many countries, there are laws to
ensure that pet owners care for their
animals properly. Essential duties include
making sure that your dog has a safe place
to live, good food, and plenty of company.
As a dog owner you also need to make
certain that your pet will not cause harm
to himself or to other people or animals.
Take out pet insurance before taking
ownership of a dog. Insurance is essential for
illnesses and injuries, and covers costs if your
pet is lost or dies, or if he harms a person,
other animals, or property.

CHECKLIST FOR A SAFER HOME


Indoors
Keep hard oors dry, and towel-dry a wet
dog promptly.
Keep outside doors shut; install a stair gate.
Block any small gaps behind or between
furniture.
Fix frayed electrical cords.
Fit child locks to cabinet doors and drawers.
Use trash cans with secure lids.
Put cleaning chemicals away and out of reach.
Keep medicines in the cabinet.
Get rid of any toxic houseplants.
Check oors and low surfaces for small
or sharp items.
At holiday times, keep your dog away from
fragile decorations and lit candles. Find a safe
place for him to hide from reworks.

Outdoors
Close off any gaps in hedges or fencing
or under gates.
Move or get rid of toxic plants.
Make sure your dog has sufcient shade
in the yard.
Keep garage or shed doors shut to keep
your dog away from machinery, sharp or heavy
tools, or chemicals such as antifreeze, paints,
and paint thinner.
Keep poisons and fertilizers locked up or on
a high shelf.
Keep your dog away from areas where poisons
or slug pellets have been used; dispose of dead
animals that have eaten poison.
Never leave your dog alone with a barbecue
hot coals and sharp skewers can cause injury.

Preparing for arrival


Introducing a new dog into your life is an exciting
experience, but it comes with big responsibilities. Taking
the time to prepare your home and yard will make his
arrival safe and enjoyable for you both.

305

C ARE AND TR AINING | BRINGING YOUR DOG HOME

Bringing your dog home


Introducing a new pet into your home will be exciting but also a little
nerve-rackingnot least for your dog. Prepare as much as possible
beforehand so the rst days are quiet and calm while your dog settles in.
PREPARING FOR ARRIVAL
It is best to obtain essential equipment
before your dog arrives in your home.
You will need a bed before anything else.
A strong cardboard box may be ne for a
puppy, since it can be thrown away if soiled
or chewed, or as the dog grows. Alternatively,
molded plastic beds are easy to clean and
can withstand some chewing. Whichever
you choose, it needs to be big enough for
him to stretch out and turn around in.
Add a soft lining of towels or blankets or
use with a foam bed. Foam beds are
comfortable and many have machinewashable covers. They are good for elderly
dogs with joint issues but not so suitable for
younger dogs likely to chew or soil the bed.
If you are getting a young puppy, letting him
sleep in a box or basket in your bedroom can
help him to settle in.
For a new puppy or a dog that needs to
feel and be secure, it can help to use a dog
crate with wire sides and top and a solid
bottom, or an open-topped pen. Set this up
somewhere warm and quiet, where he can
see and hear people so he will not be lonely.
Line the bottom with newspapers in case of
accidents and add bedding and toys. This
is a good place for him to be until he is
housebroken, for short periods alone, or

as a safe space if he is hurt or sick, but never


leave him in the crate for long periods or
lock him inside as a punishment.
The next essential items are bowls for food
and water. Both need to be cleaned every day
and food bowls cleaned before each meal.
Ceramic bowls are sturdy enough even for
large dogs; however, they are often straightsided, with hard-to-reach corners. Stainlesssteel bowls are easy to use and keep clean.
The best are non-tip with a rubber rim
around the bottom to keep them still during
use. Plastic bowls are better suited to puppies
and smaller dogs. Collect any diet sheets and
initial supplies from the breeder or shelter
and have at least a weeks supply of food.
Your dog will also need a collar. Use a soft,
fabric one for a puppy, fastened so you can
slip two ngers between it and the puppys
neck, and check every week that it is not
getting too tight. For adult dogs, use fabric or
leather collars, or a harness for a strong dog.
You will also need a basic grooming kit
(see p.319), even for short-haired dogs. For
clearing up dog feces outdoors, carry small
biodegradable bags. Vets and pet stores sell
bags specially for this purpose.
In addition to equipment, you need to have
a name ready. Choose a name of one or two
syllables since this will be easy for the dog to

DOG TOYS
Toys enable a dog to express
natural behavior such as chasing
and chewing. You can buy special
dog toys like the ones shown
here, or improvise your own using
items such as an old ball or
a length of rope. Choose toys
made from a substance that will
not splinter or choke your dog
and that are large enough not to
get stuck in his throat. To prevent
bad habits, do not use old
clothes or shoes.

306

RUBBER
CHEW TOY

CUDDLY TOY
FOR PUPPY

FOODHIDING TOY

ROPE FOR
TUGGING

DUMBBELLS
FOR CARRYING

CERAMIC BOWL

STAINLESS-STEEL BOWL

NAME TAG

COLLAR

LEASH

Essential equipment
Stable, easy-clean food and water bowls, a comfortable
fabric collar with a name tag, and a sturdy leash are all
important items to obtain before your new dog arrives.

learn, but avoid any names that could be


confused with words you might use to train
the dog, such as stay or no.
DOG-PROOF HOME
Before bringing a new dog into your home,
you will need to check for anything that may
cause him harm (see p.305). Get down to
dog level to assess for possible hazards
such as escape routes. A dog can dart
through doors, under gates, or down stairs
and run into the street. Make sure you place
sharp objects out of reach, and remove
chewable items such as balloons, which can
cause blockages. Some human foods such as
chocolates and grapes or raisins can harm
dogs (see p.344) so clear them away, too.
As soon as you get home with your dog or
puppy, take him into the yard or outdoors,

BRINGING YOUR DOG HOME

Introducing a young child


Let your dog meet your child once he has settled in.
Demonstrate how to stroke the dog gently, then
let your toddler try.
Puppy pen
Put the pen in a warm, draft-free area where your puppy
can see you and other members of the family during the
day. It should be large enough for him to move around in.

since he may need to relieve himself. Then


let your dog into your house and let him
explore. For the rst day at least, keep your
pet in his den area so he can get used to the
home gradually. A puppy will tire quickly
so allow him to sleep whenever he wants.
FIRST INTRODUCTIONS
Introduce your dog to everyone in the family.
If you have children, supervise them for the
rst few days while they and the dog get
used to each other. Explain that your new
dog may be feeling a bit nervous so they need
to be quiet around him. Ask the children to
come into the room with your dog, sit down
quietly, and offer him treats. They will need
to keep play sessions short for the rst few
days so that your dog does not get tired or
overexcited. They must not grab him or pick
him up suddenly because he could get
frightened and bite them.
Let your new dog meet other pets one
at a time after the rst day or so, once he
has settled in. Introduce resident dogs to
the new one in neutral territory, such as
the yard, so there is room to escape if one of
them gets nervous. Make a fuss of your
resident dog before paying attention to the
new one to reduce any risk of jealousy.

To introduce a cat, choose a large room


and hold on to the dog while the cat
comes to meet him. Make sure the cat has
an easy escape route. Never feed cats and
dogs together because the dog may steal
the cats food.
EARLY ROUTINES
Establish a routine from day one and ask
everyone to keep to it. Feed your dog and
take him outside to relieve himself at regular
times. Set ground rules for what your dog is
allowed to do and where he can go.
Developing a routine will help avoid
accidents while housebreaking. Take your
puppy outside after eating, after a nap, just

before bedtime, and just after any exciting


event (such as meeting a new person). You
may need to take a young puppy out about
once an hour. Watch for signs such as snifng
the ground, turning in circles, and squatting,
and take him out immediately. Stay outdoors
with your dog until he relieves himself, then
give him lots of praise.
Household appliances such as the vacuum
cleaner and washing machine are noisy and
potentially frightening so let your dog be
present while the machine is runningbut
at a comfortable distance with an escape
route. If he looks nervous, speak to him in
a gentle tone, or distract him with a toy.
Being alone is stressful for a dog, and he
will need to learn that he will be safe on his
own and trust that you will return. To begin
training, choose a time when he is calm or
sleepy and leave him in his pen or a room for
a few minutes. Come back in, but dont
make a fuss of him; stay nearby quietly until
he calms down. Extend the periods gradually
until he can be left for several hours. When
leaving your dog at home alone, make sure
he has access to his bed and a bowl of water.
Leave him with some favorite toys, including
one with food hidden inside it to keep him
occupied for a while after you have left.
Making friends
If you have rabbits or other small animals in your home or
yard, keep them separated from your dog and supervise the
dog whenever he is around them.

307

C ARE AND TR AINING | AT HOME AND AWAY

At home and away


Your dog will need to get used to people, cars, other pets, and the
outside world. Having a well socialized dog will make it easier when
going on vacation, whether you travel with him or leave him behind.
LOCAL WALKS
Once your puppy has been inoculated, and
ideally microchipped, too, he can be taken
for walks. It is important to expose puppies
to as many different situations as possible in
the rst 12 weeks, after which their attitude
becomes more guarded; if they encounter
something strange, their rst instinct will be
to run away. For older dogs, walks are about
letting them get to know their territory.
Even so, there may be things that your
dog has not encountered before, such as
livestock and wild animals.
CREATING CONFIDENCE
When your dog rst ventures into the wider
world, the experience can be overwhelming
for him. Some new sights may be frightening,
Meeting new dogs
Allow your dog to meet strange dogs when walking, but if
he is upset by them, walk away or ask the owners to hold
their dogs or put them on the leash while you pass.

such as cars and trucks. Others may be


powerful distractions: for example, a child
on a bicycle or skateboard, or lambs in a
eld. Your dog needs to learn condence,
and you need to be sure you can depend
on him to behave in all situations.
Introduce your pet to anyone who wants
to meet him. If you have children, meet
them from school with your puppy so that
he gets used to seeing other children.
When acquainting your dog with other
dogs, start with those you already know:
for example, go out for walks with someone
who has an easy-going dog. You could also
attend puppy socialization classes.
It is best to always keep your dog on a
leash around livestock and wild animals
even for a quiet dog, the temptation to
chase can be sudden and irresistible. In
many countries, dog owners are required
by law to prevent their animals from
harassing livestock.

TRAVELING BY CAR
As a dog owner you have a legal duty to
transport your dog in a way that keeps the
dog and other passengers safe. If you have
a large car, you could install a dog guard
behind the rear seats; this should be sufcient
for short trips under one hour. For long trips
or in a larger vehicle, put your dog in
a dog crate. If your dog is traveling on the
back seat of your car, a dog harness that
links in with the seat belt system will
restrain him safely. To help prevent travel
sickness, make sure your dog has a nonslip
surface to stand on in the car.
Start travel training by teaching your dog
to sit in the car for a few minutes with the
engine off and the doors open. Graduate to
sitting in the car with the doors closed and
the engine on for a few minutes. Then start
taking short journeys of a few minutes,
building up to longer trips. When traveling,
dont let your dog stick his head out of the

GETTING USED TO TRAFFIC


Introduce your dog to startling or distracting
sights such as noisy cars by getting him to sit at
a comfortable distance while the vehicle goes by.
Crouch down and hold him so he does not
try to chase, and praise him when he sits quietly.
Reward him with a treat once the object
has passed.
Gradually get him used to being closer
to these objects but at a safe distance from
fast trafc.
Be patientlet him take his time.

308

AT HOME AND AWAY

Comfortable trips
Make sure your dog has space to lie down and turn
around comfortably in a car. If using a dog crate, put in
a blanket or pillows to make him comfortable.

Exercising safely
Some dogs are not fond of others. Let your sitter or kennels
know if your dog will accept being exercised with other
dogs, and whether he is particularly shy or strong-willed,
which could affect how he gets along with strange dogs.

window because he could risk head or eye


injuries. For long journeys, carry water and
a bowl and stop at least every two hours for
your dog to have a drink and to get out and
relieve himself. On warm days switch on the
air-conditioning if your car has it, and never
leave your dog alone inside a car even with
the windows openon a hot day or in
direct sunlight, heat stroke can kill a dog in
as little as 20 minutes (see p.345). Watch for
any signs of travel sickness such as drooling
or panting. Excessive barking or chewing on
the cars interiors are other signs of distress.
GOING ON VACATION
Traveling with your dog can be enjoyable
with a bit of prior organization. Your dog
needs to be controllable in public places
and trained for car travel. He must be
microchipped and wear an ID tag. Check
in advance that your destination will be
dog-friendly. If you plan to travel abroad with
your dog, nd out what regulations apply in
each country regarding car travel with dogs;
animal welfare organizations may have
information. Also arrange travel insurance
for your dog and check if you need to have
him vaccinated for any diseases. Find out
how the airline or ferry company usually
transports dogs; some airlines may require

your dog to travel in a special crate. Take a


supply of your dogs usual food and familiar
items such as food bowls. Keep to your
routine of feeding, walks, and bedtimes as
much as possible to minimize stress.
LEAVING YOUR DOG BEHIND
If you do not plan to take your dog with you
on vacation, there are several options for
care while you are away. Whichever you
choose, you need to be sure your dog is used
to being separated from you (see p.307).
You could ask a relative, friend, or neighbor
to pet sit, or employ a registered pet sitter
who will look after your dog in his or her
home. If you can, arrange a few visits to the
pet sitters home in advance so that it
becomes a familiar place to your dog. Make
sure your dog wears an ID tag at all times.
Leave a good supply of his food with the
sitter, plus notes on feeding, walking,
bedtimes, and emergency contact numbers
for you and for the vet. If you plan to use a
registered sitter, ask your vet or fellow dog
owners for suitable recommendations, and
ask the sitter for references.

Another option is to use boarding kennels.


Your vet or other local dog owners should
be able to suggest a good one. Remember
to book well in advance, especially before
busy times of the year. Staying in kennels
can be more stressful for your dog than
staying in a home environment so it is wise
to visit the kennels before using them to
see whether they are suitable.

Family kennels
If you have two dogs, check that the boarding kennels
can house both together. It will reassure your dogs to stay
together and help them settle into the new environment.

309

C ARE AND TR AINING | A BAL ANCED DIE T

A balanced diet
Dogs need more than just meatthey need a healthy, balanced diet
and the right quantity for their size. Most people buy preprepared
dog food, but you can make your own if you prefer.
ESSENTIAL ELEMENTS
A good diet should provide all of the
nutrients that a dog needs and must contain
these elements:
Proteinsthe building blocks of cells,
proteins help to build muscles and repair the
body. Lean meat, eggs, and cheese are good
sources of proteins.
Fatshigh in energy and making food
more tasty, fats also contain essential fatty
acids that help to maintain cell walls and aid
growth and wound healing in your dog.

DOG TREATS
Many dog owners give extra-tasty foods when
training to reward good behavior or simply as a
treat. Dogs prefer smelly, meaty, and soft treats, so
try out different ones to see which yours likes best.
Treats with chicken and cheese in them are usually
popular. Some treats can be high in fats so if you
give them to your pet regularly make sure you
reduce his main meals to prevent overfeeding.
A few treats a day are enough
for all dogs.
You can buy
ready-made treats
or prepare your
own at home.

BITE-SIZED TREATS

They are the source of vitamins A, D, E, and


K, and are found in meat, oily sh, and in
oils such as linseed oil and sunower oil.
Fiberfound in potatoes, vegetables, and
rice, ber helps to bulk out food and slow
your dogs digestion, allowing more time to
absorb nutrients and making it easier for
him to pass feces.
Vitamins and mineralsthese help to
maintain your dogs body structures, such
as skin, bones, and blood cells, and support
the chemical reactions that turn food into
energy or enable vital body functions such
as blood clotting.
Wateras with humans, water is essential
for your dogs life. Make sure your dog has
access to fresh water by relling his bowl
two or three times a day.
COMMERCIAL FOODS
These foods can be moist, semimoist, or
dry. Dry food can help keep teeth and gums
healthy but check that they have wholesome
core ingredients. You must provide plenty
of water, too, since dogs that are fed dried
food drink more. Moist food has a lot
of moisture content along with higher fat
and protein components.
The main advantage of using commercial
foods is that they come in a wide choice of
varieties specially adapted for puppies,

seniors, and pregnant or lactating females.


Their nutritional values are clearly dened
and they are easy to use. However, these
foods can contain ingredients such as
preservatives and avorings that may
disagree with some dogs. Check the labels.
NATURAL FOODS
Instead of feeding your dog on a packaged
diet, you can prepare a homemade natural
diet in the form of raw meat. You will also
need to add cooked vegetables and starchy
foods such as rice to provide ber. Check
with your vet to nd out if you need to add
vitamin supplements.
This diet is closer to how a dog might eat
in the wild, and there are no preservatives or
other hidden extras. However, natural foods
need to be carefully balanced and it can be
difcult to ensure consistent nutritional
quality or to adapt the diet to different energy
needs of dogs. Preparation of fresh food on a
daily basis can also take a lot of time.
DOG CHEWS
Chews help keep your dog busy, preventing
him from chewing household items or biting
your hands. They are especially good for
puppies during teething and also play an
important role in keeping your dogs teeth
clean and his jaws in good condition.

Varieties of food
The choice of food available for dogs has greatly
expanded. This ranges from specially developed
commercial foodsmoist, dry, or semimoist
to natural food that can be prepared at home.
COOKED SAUSAGE

MEATY TREATS

310

CHEESE CUBES

MOIST TREATS

MOIST
FOOD

DRY
FOOD

NATURAL
FOOD

A good choice
Begin feeding your dog a healthy and
balanced diet from a young age, to
ensure that he receives all the nutrients
he needs as he grows.

C ARE AND TR AINING | CHANGING DIE TS

Changing diets
Dogs at different stages of life have particular nutritional needswhether
growing puppies, nursing mothers, sports dogs, or older pets. It is important
that your dog has the right nutrients for his age to optimize his well-being.
PUPPIES
Once puppies are weaned, they need to
be fed little and oftenfour times a day
at rst, reducing to three times a day from
about six months. Puppies grow fast,
so they need high-energy food; ask your
vet if you are unsure of the right quantity
to feed your puppy based on his size.
Increase the amount slowly as he grows but
avoid overfeeding. It may be best to feed
commercial puppy food to make sure he
gets the right balance of nutrients.
If you bought your puppy from a breeder,
he may supply a sample of the food that the
puppy has been eating. Stick to this food in
the beginning, introducing changes gradually.
ADULT PETS
Two meals a day (morning and evening) is
often enough. Neutered dogs need fewer
calories than un-neutered ones; otherwise,
feed according to your dogs size and activity
level, and monitor his weight (see pp.31415).
WORKING DOGS
Working or sports dogs should have highprotein, energy-dense, easily digestible foods
to maximize their strength and stamina.
However, the volume of food given to a
working dog should be no more than for a
normal adult dog. Dogs engaged in short,
sharp bursts of work, such as racing or
agility shows, need a moderately increased
fat intake. For endurance work such as
sledding, hunting, or herding animals, high
fat foods with extra protein are required.
NURSING MOTHERS
A pregnant bitch can stay on her usual diet
until the last two to three weeks of pregnancy;
from this point until whelping, her energy
Climate considerations
Dogs in colder climates or those living in outdoor kennels
need more energy than those in warmer regions in order to
keep their body temperature stable. Regular meals that are
high in fat calories can fulll their additional energy needs.

312

Growing up
Always provide your puppy with a balanced diet to
build a strong body. Be sure to choose food that is
specially formulated for puppies, and change to an
adult formula as your puppy matures.

CONVALESCENT DOGS
A sick dog needs easily digestible, extranutritious food such as boiled chicken and
rice or special commercial foods; your vet
can give you guidance. Feed your dog little
and often and make sure that the food is at
body temperature so it will be more tempting.
Keep a note of how much he is eating, and
report any loss of appetite to the vet.
needs will increase by 2550 percent. She
may lose her appetite as birth approaches,
but it will soon return after the puppies are
born. A bitch producing milk will need two
or three times as many calories as normal
in the rst four weeks when the puppies
milk needs are at their highest. Feed her
energy-dense food specially formulated
for lactating bitches, and feed little and
often. When the puppies begin weaning (six
to eight weeks), the mother will still need
extra calories. Only when she stops producing
milk should her diet be changed.

OLDER DOGS
From about age seven onward, dogs start to
need more nutrients but fewer calories. Many
do well on a normal adult diet, slightly
reduced in quantity and with vitamin and
mineral supplements. You can buy senior
formulas that are softer, with higher protein,
lower fat, and extra vitamins and minerals.
You may need to adjust feeding to three
times a day. A slower metabolic rate makes
older dogs more prone to obesity. Keeping
a healthy weight can improve the quality
and length of your dogs life.

Nursing needs
The nutritional requirements of a nursing
bitch are even more than that of a growing
dog. Her calorie needs will steadily increase
as the puppies grow and she has to produce
more milk to feed them.

C ARE AND TR AINING | MONITORING FEEDING LE VEL S

Monitoring feeding levels


As with humans, animals can develop health problems due to overeating
or a poor diet. Make sure your dog eats the right amount of good-quality food
to maintain an optimal weight for his breed or size.
GOOD FEEDING HABITS
Adopting good habits from the start will do
much to help you avoid feeding issues as
your dog grows. Follow these guidelines:
Set regular meal times.
Check that fresh drinking water is
available at all times.
Make sure you wash the food bowls
before every use.
Clear away food bowls when your dog has
nished eating, especially if feeding moist
canned or homemade foods.
Dont feed your dog the same things that
you eathis needs are different, and some
foods for humans, such as chocolate, can
be poisonous to dogs (see p.344).
If you alter your dogs diet, make changes
gradually to avoid stomach upsets.
EATING TOO FAST?
It is natural for your dog to eat fast because
in the wild this would stop other pack
members from stealing his food. Try using
an anti-gorge bowl. This has lumpy
protrusions in the base that your dog has to

Anti-gorge bowl
The anti-gorge bowl
does not allow dogs
to take large bites of
food because they must
eat around the molded
shapes. This results in
a slower, more relaxed
feeding time.
Lumpy
protrusions

work around as he eats, slowing him down.


This can help prevent digestive problems
such as gas, vomiting, and indigestion.
PREVENTING OBESITY
Dogs are scavengers and tend to eat
whatever is placed in front of them because
they do not know when they might next
nd food. For pet dogs with regular access
to plentiful food, this natural trait has led
to a high incidence of excess weight gain.
Some dog breeds are prone to put on
weight, such as the Basset Hound (see
p.146), Dachshund (see p.170), and Cavalier

King Charles Spaniel (see p.278). However,


any dog can get fat with too much highenergy food and too little exercise.
Overfeeding your dog can lead to heart
problems, diabetes, and painful joints. In
particular, for breeds that have large bodies
and thin legs (such as the Rottweiler (see
p.83) or the Staffordshire Bull Terrier (see
p.214)), weight coupled with exercise can
cause ligament problems.
To prevent weight problems in your dog:
Feed for your dogs age, size, and activity
level (see pp.31213).
Be extra vigilant about feeding titbits to
your dog; dont feed scraps from the table,
and never give in if he begs for food.
Weigh smaller dogs at home on bathroom
scales. If your dog is large, ask to have him
weighed at your vets ofce.
Keep an eye on your dogs body shape
this can be just as helpful as weighing him.
If you are concerned, take a snapshot each
week to monitor changes in his shape.
Ask your vet about a balanced diet for
weight loss if your dog becomes fat.

A healthy weight
You need to check your dogs condition regularly to ensure that
he is not too fat or too thin. Body shapes differ between breeds,
so nd out what is normal for your dogs breed. If you are not
sure about the right quantity to feed, ask your vet.

Rolls of fat at
back of neck
Thin face

314

Ribs easily felt


or seen

Shiny fur

Well muscled
body

Belly more
drawn in
than normal

Slight waist

THIN

HEALTHY

Thick layer of
fat over ribs

Large belly

FAT

At the vets
Vets have animal-friendly
weighing machines. Tell your
dog to sit on the tray so that
you and the vet can accurately
record the reading.

C ARE AND TR AINING | E XERCISE

Exercise
All dogs need exercise to prevent them from becoming bored and frustrated.
Regular exercise and play will help your dog burn off excess energy and stay
calmer at home, as well as help you to build a close relationship with him.
WALKS AND GAMES
Dogs require regular, daily exercise. For
puppies, this will help to build their strength
and reinforce learning, while for older dogs
gentle activity can help to prevent problems
such as obesity and painful joints.
Dogs that are bred for hunting and
working have higher energy levels than
other breeds; two half-hour walks might be
plenty for a Yorkshire Terrier (see p.190) or
a Pug (see p.268), but a Dalmatian (see
p.286) or Boxer (see p.90) might need
at least an hour-long walk or run plus
a play session.
Your dogs need for exercise will change
through the course of his life. Young
puppies can be taken on short walks once
they have been inoculated. For adult dogs,
long walks and runs and energetic games are
ideal. Pregnant bitches, or sick or
convalescent dogs, need only gentle exercise
for a short time. Older dogs appreciate
shorter, gentle walks, but may still enjoy
learning new games.

If your dog is under-exercised, he can gain


weight and develop behavioral problems
he may become hyperactive and agitated
and nd it difcult to settle. He may also
nd alternative, destructive outlets for
his mental and physical energies, such
as chewing up household furniture,
barking excessively, or running off
to look for entertainment.
Exercising your dog can be built into
your daily activities: for example, taking
him with you when you pick up your
children from school or walking him when
you run errands. Look for open areas where
your dog can play, or allow him to exercise
in your yard. The following tips will help to
keep him comfortable when exercising:
Watch that your dog does not get too
tired: have warming-up and coolingdown periods such as ten-minute slow
walks at each end of the exercise session.
On hot days carry water with you and
exercise when it is coolerin the early
morning or evening.

In cold weather consider using a dog

jacket for short-haired or elderly dogs to


help keep their muscles warm.
Dont let your dog run on hard surfaces
if he is not used to it because he could hurt
the pads of his paws. Similarly, avoid hard
surfaces if they are very hot or cold.
Take your dogs favorite toy or ball out
on walks with you to encourage fun and
energetic games of chase. These games are
also good mental exercise for your dog.
Try to keep sessions at around the same
time each day so that your dog gets used to
the routine and learns to rest in between.

Fetch that!
For games of fetch, take toys with you rather than using
sticks. Playing fetch also encourages your dog to come
to you when called.

Family fun
Exercising your dog with the whole family is good for all
of you and will help all family members build a strong
bond with your pet.

316

E XERCISE

Active life
Dogs with high energy levels need plenty of exercise and
play to stay calm and happy. They need open areas where
they can run freely, especially when they are young.

WALKING AND JOGGING


For his own safety and that of others, your
dog needs to be able to walk calmly on a
leash (see p.326), and once that training is
complete, walking can be done almost
anywhere. Jogging with your dog will help
you both to keep in shape. Remember to
carry biodegradeable bags with you to
collect and dispose of feces.
FREE RUNNING
Running in open spaces is especially good
exercise for high-energy or racing dogs such
as Whippets (see p.128) and Greyhounds (see
p.126). First, in order for you to trust your
dog to run a long distance from you, he needs
to be trained to come reliably when you call
him (see p.328). Find a large space such as a
eld or beach without crowds, and check
that there is no livestock to disturb. Make
sure that you are allowed to let your dog run
freely in that areamany urban parks dont
allow dogs off leashes in certain places.
To ensure that your dog keeps you in mind
while he is running around, play a few
games of hide-and-seek or fetch with

him. Agility games such as jumping over


and running through obstacles can also
be lots of fun for your dog.
CHILDREN AND PLAY
Dogs and children can become the best of
friends, but they need time to get habituated
to one another. Children can be a bit too
rough while playing, so all interaction
should be supervised. Avoid a situation

where your dog is forced to retaliate, and


be ready to step in to help when required.
Explain to children that they must not tease
a dog because this will upset him and he
may bite, and that puppies tire easily and
must be allowed to sleep if they want to.
Dogs do not like to be disturbed while they
are eating, so dont let children play with or
near a dogs food or water bowl. Only an
adult should feed a dog.

PLAYTIME
Games allow your dog or puppy to express his
natural instincts in a fun way. Puppies that learn to
play with other dogs are less likely to be timid or
aggressive. Keep sessions short and varied so your
dog does not get tired or overexcited. Make sure
you decide when the play session starts and ends
this subtly reinforces your control. Never encourage
your dog to chase peoplehumans should be
friends and leaders, never prey.
Fetch

This is an excellent way for your dog to burn off


energy. By bringing the toy back to you, the dog
learns that he will get another chance to chase it
and in the process he learns retrieval skills. Use toys
rather than sticksyour dog could injure his
mouth by catching or grabbing a stick.
Tug-of-war

Use special tug toys (see p.306). Make sure you


win more often than the dog does. Remember that
all toys are yoursyour dog should always give up

toys when asked. If he takes hold of your clothes


or skin, stop playing immediately and quietly turn
away from him. Never let your dog jump up at
people or grab things from them.
Hide-and-seek

This game satises a dogs food-seeking instincts.


Hide a bit of food inside a toy, so your dog has to
scrabble and sniff around to nd it. You could also
play with two people: one takes the dogs fetch
toy and hides with it, while the other holds the dog.
The hider calls the dog, and the other person lets
the dog go. When the dog nds the hider, this
person throws the toy for him. This game is also a
good way to teach your dog to come when called.
Squeaky toys

Toys that squeak are especially appealing to


chase and catch. Your dog may even try to bite
the toy to pieces until it stops squeaking, so be
ready to take it away from him, because if he nds
the squeak inside he runs the risk of choking on it.

317

C ARE AND TR AINING | GROOMING

Grooming
No matter what type of dog you have, regular grooming and occasional bathing
are essential to his well-being. They will help to keep a dogs skin and coat healthy,
and keep dirt, smells, and hair shedding to a minimum.
GROOMING ESSENTIALS
All dogs benet from regular grooming,
so dog owners should build time into their
schedule to do it. In addition to removing
dead hair, grooming is good for the skin,
and reduces the likelihood of your dog
getting parasites such as eas and ticks. The
process is also a good opportunity to check
for any new lumps, bumps, or injuries that
might need veterinary attention. Grooming
is relaxing for dogs and helps to strengthen
the bond between dog and owner.
Although short-haired breeds can be
groomed as little as once a week, longercoated dogs naturally require more regular
attentionsome breeds may even need daily

brushing. Knots and tangles that form


in long coats, for instance, on spaniels, are
painful and difcult to remove once they
have set in. Similarly, a buildup of dirt
should be avoided, because it can quickly
cause skin irritation.
When grooming a dog, special attention
needs to be paid to the groin, ears, legs,
and chest, where body parts rub across
one another. These areas are prone to knots
and tangles. You will also need to focus
closely on the underside of your dogs feet
and tail, where dirt can easily build up.
While grooming is essential, it is
important not to get too carried away. Be
careful when using any tool with metal

teethbeing heavy-handed or staying in one


place too long can cause cuts called brush
burns. Brushing is nished when all the
loose hair has been removedtypically
when it becomes difcult to remove more
than half a brush-full of hair.
Always approach grooming in a calm,
relaxed fashion and without any force.
If your dog is uncomfortable for any
reason, take your time and use treats to
help him through the experience. Using
force may get the job done quickly, but
future grooming sessions will become
much more difcult because your dog
will associate grooming with being
uncomfortable and try to avoid it.

COMBS AND CLIPPERS


There are many grooming tools available,
and each boasts features to make
grooming more effective. For example,
combs are available in a variety of
lengths, with and without handles. It is
important to select a brush appropriate
for your dogs coat type. Brush heads also
come in a range of shapes and sizes. Take
some time to select equipment that you
are comfortable handling and that is
appropriate for the size of your dog.
Clean your equipment after each use to
reduce the risk of contamination.

SLICKER BRUSH

SHEDDING
BLADE

COMB

SCISSORS
NAIL CLIPPERS

CLIPPERS

DE-MATTING
COMB

318

RUBBER BRUSH

Grooming your dog


Whatever breed of dog you own, you should make
sure you groom him regularly to remove dead hair
and to check for parasites.

GROOMING

Long-haired dogs
Dogs with long coats should be groomed daily to stop
tangles. To make grooming easier, use a de-matting comb
to break the mats into small sections.

WASHING YOUR DOG


How often you need to bathe your dog
depends on what type of coat he has.
Some long-haired dogs have a double coat
with a warm undercoat and thick guard
hairs on top. The guard hairs make
double-coated dogs naturally dirt repellent,
so they dont need to be bathed often
twice a year is enough. Single-coated,
short-haired dogs should be bathed more
frequentlyabout once every three months.
Curly-coated breeds like Poodles do not
shed and may need to be bathed more
regularly, even as often as once a month. It
is important not to wash any dog too often,
since overwashing causes the coat to
compensate by producing extra oils,
which leads to an increase of natural odor.
If your dog gets muddy after a walk, he does
not necessarily need a bathwait until the
mud dries and then brush it off.

BATH TIME Make bath time a pleasant experience for your dogfeed him treats before you get him wet, have everything you need
within easy reach so that you dont have to leave him unattended, and check that he is comfortable and happy throughout the process.

Test the water temperature


before you wet your dogit
should be warm, but not hot.
Beginning at the head, wet him fully
from head to tail. Be careful not to
get water in his eyes, ears, or nose.

Apply a specially formulated dog


shampoo and then massage it
thoroughly into your dogs coat, right
down to his skin.

Use warm water to rinse all the


shampoo out of your dogs coat.
Any shampoo residue left in the coat
will cause skin irritation.

Squeeze the excess water out of


his coat by hand, then towel him
all over, so that he is nearly dry. Finish
by drying him fully with a hair dryer on
low heat (as long as he isnt worried by
the noise), brushing as you go.

319

C ARE AND TR AINING | GROOMING CHECK S

Grooming checks
Grooming is a good time to accustom your dog to routine checks in which
you examine each part of his body. It is not just your dogs coat that needs
attentionhis teeth, ears, and nails also need to be attended to regularly.
ROUTINE CHECKS
From early puppyhood, get your dog
accustomed to regular grooming so that
you can use this time to carry out health
checks as well. Noticing the slightest
change could allow early diagnosis
of a health problem, and potentially
a better outcome.
While grooming and examining each
part of your dogs body, talk to him
to put him at ease and use commands
such as teeth and ears. Look rst

for any obvious changes in body shape


and stance, then go over him in more
detail, searching for cuts, lumps, and
external parasites. Run your hands over
and under his head and body, down
all four legs, and along the length of
his tail. Part the fur in places, especially
over his rump; there should be no evidence
of eas or ea dirts, little or no debris,
and the coat should feel and smell
pleasant. Stroking your dog should be
a good experience for both of you.

Check his eyes to make sure there is no


excessive tear production or sticky discharge.
A little sleep is normalsimply wipe it
away, using a separate damp cotton ball for
each eye. Gently lower the bottom eyelids to
check that the lining and the white around
the irises are not inamed and red.
Look under the tail at the anus for soiling
and swellings, and in a female check the
vulva for swelling and discharges. Examine
the penis of a male dog for injuries and
excessive discharge or bleeding from the tip.

Eye checks
Always check that your dogs eyes
are open and bright. Eye problems
require prompt attention from a
vet. Do not ignore signs such as a
discharge or a dog pawing at the
eyes because of irritation.

320

GROOMING CHECK S

Teeth cleaning
Use a toothbrush or ngerbrush to clean your dogs teeth,
taking care not to apply too much pressure. Use this time
to check that his teeth, gums, and mouth are healthy.

TEETH CLEANING
Your dog can be taught to accept you looking
in his mouth and brushing his teeth. First, get
him used to the feel of having your hand
resting across the bridge of his nose, with
your thumb held under his chin to keep his
mouth closed. Once he is comfortable with
this, use your other hand to lift his top lip
gently to reveal the outer surfaces of the
teeth. Ideally, these should be white, but
light brown tartar may accumulate along the
gum line. The gums should be moist and
pale pink, and the breath smell pleasant. A
toothbrush can be inserted inside the cheek,
if your dog remains calm. The most
important places to brush are along the gum
line and the outside surfaces of the teeth.
Move the brush gently in a circular motion
rather than scrubbing from side to side.
Dogs teeth benet from weekly brushing,
using only dog-specic products. You might
nd it easier to use a ngerbrusha hollow

Nail trimming
When trimming your dogs nails, make sure you clip
below the quick. Trim only small sections at a time to
prevent cutting through the quick. Check your dogs
paws for swellings and his claws for breaks or splits.

Ear cleaning
Check that your dogs ears are not swollen and do not smell
unpleasant. Antiseptic ear cleaner can be applied to cotton
balls and used to wipe the visible areas of your dogs ears. Do
not insert cotton balls or any other object into the ear canal.

plastic tube that ts over your nger and


has built-in bristles. This can be a lot
easier to maneuver around your dogs
mouth and prevents you from applying
too much pressure.
Teeth cleaning will be a strange experience
for your dog at rst, so use treats at each
stage to put him at ease and encourage good
practice in future. If he shows signs of
aggression or anxiety during the process,
stroke him slowly and gently for several
minutes before trying again.

on dogs with black nails. It is a two-tone


pink area in the center of the nail. If you cut
the nails too short, you will sever the quick,
which will cause the nail to bleed copiously.
Hold your dogs foot rmly to avoid him
moving at the moment of cutting. Place the
nail clippers just below the quick and cut the
nail swiftly in one smooth movement. If you
do cut the quick, remain calm and apply a
small amount of styptic powder to the nail
to help stem the bleeding, and apply rm
pressure until the bleeding stops.

NAIL TRIMMING
Train your dog from a young age to allow
his feet to be lifted up and examined.
Look between the toes for grass awns and
bright orange harvest mites. Check for
swellings and broken or overly long claws;
when the feet are fully weight-bearing, the
claws should just touch the ground.
How often you will need to trim your dogs
nails depends on the breed and his lifestyle;
monthly trimming should be sufcient for
most dogs. Nails need to be trimmed back as
far as the quick, which is where the blood
vessels and nerves are. The quick is much
easier to see on dogs with white nails than

EAR CLEANING
Your dog should not nd it painful to
have his ears touched. There should be no
swelling of the aps, and the ears should
be pleasant smelling and clean as far down
as you can see.
Inspect your dogs ears regularly for
any signs of discharge, unpleasant odor,
redness, inammation, or ear mites. Any
of these symptoms may signal an infection,
for which you should seek veterinary help.
Monthly ear cleaning will maintain the
health of the ears and prevent infections.
This is particularly important with
pendant-eared dogs such as spaniels.
321

C ARE AND TR AINING | BEING IN CHARGE

Being in charge
Having a well behaved dog depends on building a good relationship with him.
Learning to communicate the rules in a clear and calm way that your dog
understands will ensure he responds positively to your requests.
SETTING RULES
Dogs are pack animals and, like humans,
they seek out social companionship and
build strong relationships. Because their
ancestors once lived in packs, dogs look
up to a leader they can respect and follow.
Without a strong leader they can turn
unruly. They are not naturally disobedient
in fact, they crave rules and boundaries
but puppies are not born knowing what the
rules are, and even an older dog may not yet
have learned all the rules you would like
him to follow.
Decide upon a set of rules you feel are
important, then enforce them consistently
through training methods such as rewardbased training (see pp.32425). Act quickly
to stop any behavior that breaks your rules;
your dog will soon learn which behaviors
are acceptable and which are not.
There is no need to prove your physical
strength or dominance. If he senses you are
angry or distracted, he may become fearful
or withdrawn. A good owner is calm, fair,
and likeableit is important to help your
dog understand when he makes mistakes,

Happy together
A healthy relationship is one in which your
dog is at ease because he knows what is
expected of him, and in return you enjoy the
company of a dog that does as he is asked.

322

without getting angry and shouting at


him. Giving approval through praise and
affection is the best way to make your dog
feel secure and loved.
Building a relationship with your dog
based on mutual respect will make both you
and your dog happier. Your dog will gladly
follow commands given by you as long as
he understands what he needs to do. When
training problems occur, it is usually
because of poor communication between
you and your dog. Since dogs have different
motivations and needs than humans, taking
time to understand how your dog learns
and what signals he can follow will help set
realistic expectations.
VOICE AND HAND COMMANDS
Your voice is a useful training tool but it is
easy to forget that dogs cannot understand
spoken language. Your dog is capable of
remembering what certain words sound like
and what he should do when he hears them
but only after repeated training and only if
those words always sound the same. Asking
your dog to sit one day and sit down

Staying focused
Dont get angry if your dog gets distracted by something
in his environment. Instead, do something to turn his
attention back to you. Using treats or a toy, or even a game
of chase, will all help to engage him again.

the next will confuse him and make training


more difcult. The tone of your voice is also
very important. Your dog will use your tone
to gauge whether he is doing the right thing
or not, so it is important always to keep your
voice cheerful when teaching new words.
Your dog will also look at your body
posture to work out the context of a
situation and what you are asking him to
do. However, just as dogs have no concept
of language, they do not understand that by
pointing at something you are trying to
direct their attention to somewhere other
than the end of your hand.
Dogs, and especially puppies, nd learning
hand signals easier than learning voice
commands, because only a small part of
their brain can process verbal information.
Once your dog has learned the hand signal
and is responding reliably to it every time,
add a voice command ahead of the hand
signal. Eventually, after plenty of
repetitions, your dog will respond to the
voice command alone.
Remember, your dog can only concentrate
on one thing at a time. Be patient while
training, and make sure that your dog has
fully learned one command before trying to
teach him a new one.

Avoid confusion
If you give a voice command at the
same time as a hand signal, your dog
will tend to learn the hand signal but
ignore the voice command.

C ARE AND TR AINING | BA SIC TR AINING

Basic training
Training should be an enjoyable experience for both you and your dog. The following
pages introduce some basic commands and will help to get you started, but if you are
unsure, always seek the help of a professional dog trainer sooner rather than later.
WHEN TO TRAIN
There are many things to consider while
training, but the most important is to
choose the right time. Aim to train for
a few minutes several times a day, since this
will produce much better results than a
longer training session once a day. Choose
times when you are not stressed or in a rush,
otherwise your dog will sense your tension
and be far more likely to get things wrong
in his attempts to please you.
Equally important is to consider your
puppys mood. Trying to train an overexcited
puppy that hasnt had much exercise will be
difcult. And a puppy that has just eaten a
large meal will feel sleepy and will not be
particularly motivated by food treats.
Maximize your training success by limiting
his choices and thus preventing him from

making the wrong decision. Start training


him in a quiet, distraction-free environment
such as your living room, especially when
attempting to teach new or difcult
commands. When you do move training
outside, start somewhere quiet and enclosed,
far from other dogs and people. You can
then build up to training in high-distraction
environments such as a local park, but do not
attempt this until your puppy has had plenty
of practice already and has been inoculated.
REWARD-BASED TRAINING
Training your dog involves creating a
situation where he is rewarded for certain
behaviors instead of others. Any behavior
that is consistently rewarded will be
repeated more often. This also means that
bad behavior, which is not rewarded, will

soon disappear and be replaced by


behavior that is rewarded. For your dog
to understand how you want him to behave,
give him the reward as soon as he has
behaved in the way you would like. Rewards
can include food treats, games with toys,
simple praise and affection, or even playing
with other dogs. Remember that not all
dogs nd the same rewards appealing.
Spend some time discovering what really
motivates your dog and use that as a reward.
One of the easiest reward-based ways
of training is to use a food treat to lure your
dog into the position you want him to be
in. Food treats should be small, soft, and
smelly. They work best when they can be
given quickly during training sessions and
do not take your dog several minutes to
eat. More complicated behaviors can be

SIT Dogs naturally sit of their own accord and it can be easy simply to reward them as and
when it happens. However, taking the time to teach your dog to sit on command ensures that he
sits quickly and reliably in the face of any distraction. It is one of the easiest commands to teach
and one that any dog will readily learn.

Introduce hand signal


Once your dog learns to
sit, teach him to respond
to a clear hand signalan
upward motion with a at
hand and palm facing up.
After several repetitions, say
sit a moment before the
hand signal.

Dog in a stand Hold a treat in front of your


dogs nose when he is standing in front of
you. Lure him by moving the treat back over
his head so that he raises his nose.

324

Feed treat and praise When your dog folds


into the sit, release the treat and praise gently.
Continue to praise and feed him treats if he remains
sitting for longer.

BA SIC TR AINING

Handout
Offering your dog a treat on the
at of your hand prevents him
from accidentally nipping you with
his teeth. Using a variety of treats
keeps your dog motivated during
training and allows you to create a
hierarchy of rewards.

broken down and


rewarded in stages,
in a method called
shaping. So if you
want your dog to sit,
every time he moves
closer to the ground and
you reward him, he will realize what he is
being asked to do. Getting rewarded for
each small effort will make him repeat it.
There is also a lot of equipment, such as
collars, leashes, and harnesses, that can help
you during training. Choose equipment that
is comfortable for both you and your dog to
use and ask a professional to help you t and
use it correctly. However, avoid relying on
tools too heavilyif you forget the equipment

DOWN
After your dog has mastered the sit and stay,
gradually teach him down (below). From a
sitting position, rst lure him by bringing the
hand with the treat in it all the way to the oor
so that your dog follows it. As soon as his
elbows are both on the ground, reward him
immediately. Once he is reliably going straight
down, introduce a clear hand signala
downward motion with palm facing downand
again lure him into the down position. The next
step is to train him to respond to your voice.
Say down and then give your hand signal.

or it breaks, it will be the good training you


have done that will prove most important.
Keeping your training sessions short, and
ending with a fun game, will ensure your
dog stays engaged and is eager to continue
next time. If he is having trouble learning a
new task, it is important to be patient. Try
breaking the task into smaller chunks and
do not progress to the next stage of training
until your dog is condent.

STAY Once your dog has learned to sit on command, teach him to stay, with your hand flat and
palm facing down. Both sit and stay commands help control unwanted behaviors. Unlike
most basic training, teaching your dog to stay for long periods is best practiced when he is tired,
since he will be happy to rest in one position and more likely to remain still.

Ask for sit Ask your dog to sit, then hold


your palm face down and say stay.
Praise him immediately but take your time
to reward him.

Insert movement When your dog has learned


to stay reliably, slowly move away from him by
taking a step back and leaning your weight on to
your back leg.

Add distance Move around your dog while he


is sitting. If he moves to you, calmly reposition
him and repeat. Gradually build up the distance
between you and your dog.

325

C ARE AND TR AINING | BA SIC TR AINING

GOOD PRACTICE IN TRAINING


All dogs need to be walked on a leash at
least some of the time to ensure their safety.
Teaching your dog to do this without
pulling will make going for a walk a more
pleasant experience for you both. However,
no matter when you start the training, it is
crucial to set rigid ground rules. Each new
environment is likely to prove challenging
for your dog so start each training session
by rewarding one step at a time. As he
improves and is walking nicely for a few
paces, progress to working with distractions
in the distance, such as other dogs. If he
starts pulling or loses attention entirely, he
probably isnt ready for this stage yet.
Move the training to a quieter area and
go back one stage.
Never become angry with your dog if he
makes mistakes. Teaching him to walk
without pulling takes time and you should

plan longer walks to allow for the many


stops you will have to make. Some dogs,
especially older rescue dogs, are really
dedicated pullers, and basic training may
be unsuccessful. In such cases it is best to
seek the help of a professional dog trainer.
Resist the urge to use collars that tighten
around your dogs neck. They do not teach
your dog anything and have the potential to
cause him serious damage.
It may not be necessary for your dog to
walk precisely to heel at all times, as long
as he does not pull on his leash. However,
sometimes it is useful to keep your dog
closefor example, when walking past
people on the sidewalk. Use a similar method
to that used to teach your dog to walk on a
leash (below), keeping him in a closer
position by using a treat. Once you can rely
on your dog walking close to you, gradually
phase out the treat but continue to praise.

New places
When training in a new environment for the
rst time, use special treats that your dog
nds particularly tempting.

WALKING ON A LEASH Teaching a puppy to walk on a leash without pulling is easier than teaching
an adult dog, which may have developed bad habits. As soon as your dog pulls, stop walking and
help him into the correct position next to your leg. This can be frustrating to begin with, since you
will be stopping every few paces, but following the steps below will help you both get it right.

Position the dog Lure your dog into position


using a treat in your left hand. Keep the treat
low so that he doesnt jump up, and the leash
short so that he cant wander off.

326

Step forward Keep your dogs attention


by saying his name cheerfully, and hold
him in position against your leg, either sitting
or standing, with the treat.

Treat in position Take a step forward, stop and


let your dog have the treat while he is in the
correct position. If he stays by your side, take another
step forward and reward him again.

Practice With each session,


gradually increase the number
of steps you take before rewarding
your dog. If he moves away from
you or gets distracted, lure him
back into the correct position.

C ARE AND TR AINING | BA SIC TR AINING

TRAINING CLASSES
No matter how much experience you have
training dogs, classes are advisable for any
new dogwhether it be a puppy or an older,
rescued dog. The benets dogs receive from
taking part in a group class are signicant
and it is also a useful way to hone your
skills. In training classes you will meet other
like-minded people and learn about the
facilities your local area has to offer dog
owners. All dogs are different and will
benet from slightly varied approaches in
their training. Furthermore, having an
experienced trainer on hand will prevent
you from making mistakes. It is also much
easier to keep motivated when training as
part of a group.
Training classes should be well organized
and enjoyable for all the owners and dogs
present. A happy, condent dog will move
in a relaxed manner during these classes.
Any sign of tension, evident in a stiffening
of the body, is a warning that he feels

uncomfortable. Nervous dogs and those that


are aggressive toward people or other dogs
are not suitable for group classes. These
types of behavioral problems are often
aggravated in a class situation and
can become more pronounced. Quite
often these dogs are better starting off
in a one-to-one training session, with
someone who is qualied in dealing with
behavioral problems, before progressing into
a group class. If you have any concerns, ask
before enrolling your dog. All training
classes teach the basic skill of getting your
dog to walk to heel. If you can keep your
dog by your side in a controlled environment
you will soon be able to walk him in public
spaces with condence.
WHERE TO TRAIN
There are likely to be several classes running
in your area. Try to get recommendations
from other dog owners or your vet. Choose
a trainer who is recognized by an ofcial

organization such as the American Kennel


Club. Before you choose a class, take the
time to visit and watch a training session
take place. Even if you have no experience
of training classes, you will quickly get
a feel for a good class. Aim for classes
with relaxed dogs and happy owners.
Avoid hectic and noisy environments and
classes. A knowledgeable and experienced
trainer will take charge in a friendly and
effective manner.

WHAT TO LOOK FOR


IN A CLASS
Small classes with only a few dogs.
High trainer-to-dog ratio.
Positive training methods utilizing
praise, food, and toys.
No choke chains.
No aggressive training.
A relaxed environment.

COME WHEN CALLED Training your dog to come when called should not be started on walks
because there are simply too many temptations that may cause your dog to ignore you. However,
by practicing the following simple steps at home or in your yard, your dog will learn that
coming back to you is always the better choice.

Show the treat to tempt him Get your


dog focused on you by tempting him
with his favorite treat. Let him sniff the treat
but have a friend gently hold his collar so
that he cant eat it.

328

Call him Keep your dogs attention on you and


take a few paces away from him. Then crouch
down to your dogs level, throw your arms wide open,
and call him with an enthusiastic come. As you do
this, your friend can let go of your dogs collar.

Encourage him with a treat As soon as


your dog is within two feet of you, hold out
the treat as a lure and tempt him to come right up
to you. Play with him a bit with the treatyou dont
want him to grab the treat and run off.

Reward and praise As you


give him the treat, gently take
hold of his collar with your other
hand and pat him or tickle his chin.
Praise him and feed him some more
treats so he learns that coming back
to you is really worthwhile.

C ARE AND TR AINING | BEHAVIOR AL PROBLEMS

Behavioral problems
Most dogs that are trained in basic rules from a young age happily integrate
into their household. However, some dogs may develop unwanted behaviors
that require further training or specialized help.
DESTRUCTIVE BEHAVIOR
Chewing is a natural behavior in puppies
and dogs, but when it becomes excessive or
is targeted toward something inappropriate
it can quickly become a source of tension
between owner and dog. Sometimes
dogs exhibit destructive behavior as an
outlet because they are experiencing
physical pain or suffer from separation
anxietya condition characterized by
extreme distress during the absence of their
owner. Dogs can be affected by anxiety
disorders, however supportive and happy
their homelife. You should seek your vets
advice or consult a professional behaviorist if
your dog suffers from anxiety.
Occasionally, destructive behavior such
as chewing or digging can become a problem
in otherwise healthy, adult dogs. This is often
a sign that the dog is not being sufciently
stimulated, and it may help to provide him
with an acceptable outlet for this natural
behaviorsuch as allowing him to dig for
treats in a sandpit. This will only work in
dogs where all of their other needs, such as
physical exercise, nutritional requirements,
and social interaction, are met.

The rst stage of training is to put the


desired behavior on cue, by associating a
command word with the behavior. For
example, a dog that chews furniture can be
taught to chew special toys containing food
instead. Offer your dog a toy with treats
hidden inside and praise him as he begins to
investigate it, telling him good boy, chew
in a clear voice. It is vital that you make some
temporary changes to restrict your dogs
opportunities to perform the unwanted
behavior, such as preventing chewing by
using a bitter spray to make the furniture
taste unpleasant.
When you have made a good association
between the cue word and the correct
behavior, you have a channel of
communication when your dog misbehaves.
Do not punish your dog, since he is not
being badhe is displaying a natural
behavior. If you catch him chewing the
furniture, simply interrupt him (for
example, with a hand clap) and hand him
his chew toy, saying good boy, chew.
EXCESSIVE BARKING
Barking is a completely normal dog
behavior; however, excessive barking
can quickly become a problem within a
household. Bear in mind that dogs sometimes
bark when shut in a room or in the yard for
long periods, and allowing more freedom
will often result in reduced barking.
The easiest way to control problem barking
is to train your dog to bark on command and
follow this with teaching be quiet on
command as well. Start by doing something
that would normally cause your dog to bark,
such as waving a toy. Insert the command to
speak just before he barks. Praise him for
barking and then approach him and hold a
Dealing with chewing
Puppies naturally use their mouths to investigate
their environment, especially when teething, but you
should never punish them for this or they will learn
to hide from you when they are chewing.

330

Dont pay attention


Do not give your puppy any fuss or attention
if he jumps up. Only praise him when he has
all four paws on the oor again.

treat in front of his nose to stop him from


barking. Then simply say the word quiet
and feed him the treat. Incorporate training
sessions into play, and end with a fun game of
tug-of-war or something similar. Dont use
this training, however, if your dog is barking
out of aggression; in this case, a professional
behaviorist will need to be involved.
JUMPING UP
A common complaint from dog owners, and
the one problem they are most guilty of
creating themselves, is their dog jumping up
at people. Puppies naturally try to get closer
to peoples face and hands, which they

BEHAVIOR AL PROBLEMS

recognize as sources of human affection.


It is natural for people to encourage this
because it seems cute and fun when puppies
do it. However, problems develop when this
behavior continues in adult dogs. Teaching
young puppies not to jump up from the
very rst day you bring them home can help
you prevent this.
However, if you have an older dog
that already habitually jumps up at people
you will need to train him that this is
unacceptable. This can be as simple as
following the instructions to teach a sit
(see p.324) so that he cannot jump up. If the
urge to jump up is irresistible to your dog,
it may be necessary to set up specic
training sessions. To do this, put him on
a short leash and get a friend to walk slowly
toward you. When your dog is sitting
obediently, your friend can approach and
give him praise but must move away again
if he gets overexcited and jumps up. As
training progresses, you should be able to
take off the leash but your dog will still need
to be reminded to sit. Make sure that
everyone enforces the rule or your training
will fail. Do not become complacent about
praising your dog for sitting obediently or
he is very likely to jump up as a way of
getting attention again.

RUNNING OFF
All dogs love to run freely and play, so it is
important that your dog will return to your
call when off his leashyou may meet
someone who isnt condent around dogs,
or another dog that is unfriendly.
Begin recall training in a distraction-free
environment such as your home or yard.
Start by practicing come when called
at home (see p.328). Once your dog
will return to you quickly, move the training
outside. Walk your dog on his normal
leash, but have a light, long-line attached
as well and tuck it away in your pocket.
When you get to a safe, open space you can
make a big show of taking off your dogs
leash. He will assume he is off the leash, but
in fact you have hold of the end of the
long-line. Leave the line dragging along
the ground and dont pull it taut. Now call
your dogs name, followed by come, stand
up tall and wave your arms with a big smile
on your face. Your dog should always want
to come back to you, because he knows he
will get treats or praise every time he does.
Keep the training variedask your dog to
recall a number of times and be totally
unpredictable about when you call him.
Make sure that you always reward the
recall in some way.

Stages of aggression
Dogs show a whole range of signs before they resort
to biting. Only if these signs are ignored will the dog feel
the need to escalate his response.

AGGRESSION
A natural canine response when a dog is
not comfortable in a situation is to become
aggressive. However, for pet dogs to be
trustworthy in all situations they must
understand that aggression is not an
acceptable response toward humans or other
dogs. A good owner needs to take note of
when a dog is becoming distressed and help
him be more comfortable in that situation, to
reduce the risk of an aggressive response.
Most happy and socialized dogs are not
aggressive other than in rare cases where
they are in pain or surprised while sleeping.
Never challenge an aggressive dog. If a dog
is growling at you, he is telling you that he is
unhappy and wants you to move away. Any
harsh treatment will only result in the dog
becoming more aggressive over time as he
feels the need to defend himself.
Do not attempt to remedy an aggression
problem without professional help. First
ensure you put control measures in place,
such as keeping your dog muzzled and on a
leash when out, and then speak to your vet
about getting a professional, accredited dog
behaviorist to assist you.

Runaway dog
The outside world can be full of temptations that might
encourage your dog to run off, so it is important
that he knows to return immediately when you call.

331

C ARE AND TR AINING | VISITING THE VE T

Visiting the vet


Your dog will need veterinary check-ups throughout his life, from early puppyhood
to old age. Regular health check-ups of your dog will help pick up hidden problems
and minor issues before they become major worries.
FIRST PUPPY HEALTH CHECK-UP
Take your puppy for his rst veterinary
check-up as soon as it is convenient. Unless he
is already vaccinated, carry him into the ofce
and keep him off the oor. He should wear a
collar and leash in case he jumps out of your
arms. Alternatively, use a pet carrier. There
may be other animals in the waiting room and
it can be noisy, so reassure your puppy.
Vets enjoy meeting puppies, and you are
likely to receive a warm welcome. The vet
will ask you for details of your puppys early
life: his date of birth; the size of the litter;
where and how the pups were reared; what
worming and ea treatments were done; and

the results of any screening tests for the


breed. If your puppy has been vaccinated,
show the vet the certicate. Your puppy will
be weighed, and the vet will make a detailed
examination, including checking his ears
with an auroscope and listening to his heart.
The vet will also scan your puppy to check
that he has been microchipped. Implanting a
microchip under the skin between your
puppys shouldersa procedure somewhat
like giving a vaccinationensures that he
can always be identied. Scanning the chip
reveals a unique number against which any
contact information you have provided is
recorded in a central database.

Meeting the vet


Your puppy should be relaxed and
enjoy his rst appointment at the
veterinary practice. Reassure him
while the vet examines him so that
he remains calm.

332

If a vaccination is required, it will be given


now. You may need to make some follow-up
appointments to complete the vaccination
course and to allow the vet to monitor your
puppys progress. Before you leave, the vet
should offer advice on diet, ea control,
neutering, socializing, training, and
traveling in the car. Do not hesitate to
ask if you need any further information.
FOLLOW-UP PUPPY CHECK-UP
The veterinarian may suggest that you take
your puppy for another check-up when he is
four or ve months old, to ensure that he is
growing well and developing both physically

VACCINATIONS
Protecting your dog against infection is one of
the best things you can do for him. Vaccination
has greatly reduced the incidence of major
canine diseases, such as parvovirus and
distemper, and prevents other infections,
including rabies and leptospirosis. During
pregnancy a bitch (provided her vaccinations
are up to date) passes immunity on to her
puppies. This protection lasts for a few weeks
after birth, after which the puppies should be
vaccinated. Your vet will recommend when
boosters should be given. Some vaccines can
give up to three years protection against certain
diseases, following a booster 12 months after
the initial course.

VISITING THE VE T

Making sure all is well


The annual check-up can be an enjoyable, social time
for you, your dog, and the vet. This is your chance
to discuss any concerns you may have.

Scanning a microchip
Checking that the microchip can be identied by a scanner is
very important. Remember to keep the contact information
that is registered against the chip number up to date.

and socially. This will also give you the


chance to build on the advice given at the rst
puppy appointment. At the follow-up
check-up, the vet will look for any puppy
teeth that were not shed as the adult versions
came through. This is important because the
baby teeth may need to be removed to allow
the adult teeth to take up the right position
within the mouth and ensure the correct bite.
ANNUAL CHECK-UP
In addition to the regular check-ups you do at
home (see pp.32021), you should also make
an appointment for an annual vet check-up.
The vet will examine your dog from head to
tail and ask various questionsfor instance,
about his thirst, appetite, diet, toilet
habits, and exercise. If there is any cause for
concern, detailed diagnostic tests may be
recommended. You may be asked to bring a
sample of your dogs urine, particularly if
your pet is a senior, since this will provide
additional important information about the
kidneys and bladder. The sample should be
collected early that morning into a suitable
container. Your vet will also be able to advise
on general health matters such as weight,
body and coat condition, and control of
worms, eas, and other parasites. Other
routine procedures may include clipping the
nails if they are overgrown and giving
booster vaccinations to maintain protection
against infectious diseases.
Some dogs do not like being examined. If
this is the case, the vet may suggest muzzling
your dog, or he may ask you to go out of the
room and have a veterinary nurse assist

because some dogs are braver and better


behaved away from their owners.
Some veterinary practices run specic
clinics, such as those dealing with weight
issues. If your dogs weight is recorded at a
regular clinic, any gain or loss will be
identied and treated at an early stage.
DENTAL CHECK-UP
A healthy mouth not only enables your
dog to enjoy eating his food, but it is also
important for his general well-being,
since decayed teeth and infected gums can
lead to diseases in other parts of the body.
The teeth will be examined at annual
check-ups and any interim visits, but you
may want to consider taking your dog to a
regular dental clinic. Such clinics can give
you advice on home dental hygiene
techniques and will monitor your progress.

They will also provide support if your dog


has to undergo a dental procedure such as a
scale-and-polish.
ASKING ABOUT NEUTERING
If you decide to have your dog neutered, as
the majority of owners do, an early puppy
health check-up is a good opportunity to ask
for advice. Your vet will explain what the
procedure involves for either a dog or a
bitch, and suggest when neutering is best
carried out. Veterinary opinions differ as to
the ideal time for dogs to be neutered, with
the recommended age ranging from a few
weeks to a few months. Most commonly,
the operation is performed after puberty.
Many owners worry about the after-effects
of neutering and any concerns you may have
can also be discussed at your puppys rst
health check-up.
333

C ARE AND TR AINING | SIGNS OF HE ALTH

Signs of health

Alert, attentive
expression

A healthy dog is easy to recognize by the way he looks and behaves, allowing
for individual variation, breed, and age. Once you get to know your own dog,
you should have no difculty in judging if all is well.
HEALTHY APPEARANCE
Bright eyes, a glossy coat, and a cold, wet
nose are often cited as classic signs of good
health in a dog, but these are not invariable
indicators. A dogs bright eyes may dim with
age, even if he stays perfectly t; his coat will
not look glossy if he is wire-haired; and a
healthy dog can often have a warm, dry nose.
Perhaps more useful health indicators
are your dogs body shape and weight,
which should stay consistent: strange
swellings, sudden loss of weight, and
abdominal bloating are all possible early
health warnings. You can monitor weight
gain and growth in a young dog by weighing
him weekly and plotting the weight on a
graph; back up this data by taking regular
photographs as he matures.
Changes in health are also revealed in
a dogs feces and urination habits, which
can be markedly different from one dog
to another. Your dog should urinate and
defecate to his normal pattern. As you

Smooth,
glossy coat

Tail ready
to wag

Standing
comfortably

Normal contours

Perfect health
Everything about this
dogs appearance
suggests normal health.
He looks alert and well,
in good body condition,
and t for life.

clear up after your dog, it will become


obvious what is normal for him in terms
of frequency, consistency, and color.
A healthy dog should appear bright
and alert, and interact readily with the
family and other dogs and pets. He

should move around freely, without


stiffness, be eager for physical exercise,
and not be unduly tired afterward.
A normal interest in food, and drinking
the expected amount of water, are also
signs that he is in good health.

Fit and healthy


A dog in good health will have a hearty appetite and show
an obvious enjoyment of exercise. He should appear
bright, inquisitive, and playful, too.

334

SIGNS OF HE ALTH

SIGNS OF A PROBLEM
Unwillingness to exercise; lethargy, tiring
unexpectedly on a walk
Loss of coordination or bumping into objects
Altered breathing pattern or an abnormal sound
during respiration
Coughing or sneezing
Open wound
Swelling or unusual bump
Pain, swelling, and heat in a joint
Swollen eyes or eyelids
Blood: from a wound; passed in urine (which
will appear pink or contain blood clots); in feces or
in vomit
Limping or stiffness
Shaking head

RECOGNIZING A PROBLEM
Any change in your dog may be a warning
of poor health. The most trivial sign, such
as a droopy eyelid, should not be dismissed,
since it could be signicant. Your dog may
have an internal problem such as an upset
stomach, an external problem affecting the
coat and skin, or a combination of the two.
You may notice only vague signs, such as
your dog sleeping more or exercising less
readily, or something obviously wrong, such
as your dog limping, or shaking his head
because a grass awn is trapped in his ear.
Many common disorders are minor
and easily treated, especially if they are
recognized early. Always speak to your
vet before attempting any home treatment.
What might seem an appropriate course
of action for humans could be harmful
to a dog. It may be sufcient to act on
advice given by your veterinary practice
over the telephone, although often the
vet will need to examine your dog to be
certain of how best to proceed. If there
is no simple explanation of a problem,
your vet will work through the possible
causes in order of likelihood.
After taking a dogs history and
examining him fully, the vet may still
need to perform further investigations,
such as blood tests and imaging.
Sometimes a dog may be diagnosed
with a serious disorder that needs
hospitalization and even surgery,
followed by a long convalescence
but, fortunately, common ailments really

Unintentional weight loss


Weight gain, particularly if the dog has developed
a distended abdomen
Reduced appetite or refusing food altogether
Voracious appetite, or a change in what the
dog will eat
Vomiting, or regurgitation of food shortly
after eating
Diarrhea or difculty passing a motion
Bloated abdomen
Crying with pain when passing feces or urine
Itchiness: rubbing at mouth, eyes, or ears;
dragging rear along the ground (scooting)
or washing excessively in that area; or all-over
bodily itching

Recognizing the warning signs


It is helpful to understand what is normal in your dog.
You will then be able to recognize anything unusual,
such as lack of interest in food or exercise, that may
be due to ill health.

are common. An itchy dog is more likely


to have eas than an obscure problem
with his nervous system.
Remember, both you and your vet are
aiming for your dog to lead as long and
healthy a life as possible. If you need
more advice or information, your vet
will also be ready to help.

Abnormal discharge: from any orice (such as


the mouth, nose, ear, vulva, prepuce, or anus) from
which there is not usually a discharge, or because
the normal smell, color, or consistency has altered
Coat changes: dull with a greasy texture, or
excessively dry; debris in the coat, such as ea
dirts, actual eas, scabs, or scales
Excessive hair loss resulting in areas of baldness
Change in coat color (may occur so gradually
that it is noticed only when compared with an old
photograph)
Changes to gum colorbecoming paler or
yellowing; or a bluish tinge to gums; or grey
discharge at gum line
High temperature

ABNORMAL THIRST
A dog spending more time than usual at his water
bowl, or a source of water outside, may have an
abnormal thirst. Measure the volume of water he
drinks over 24 hours by emptying all his bowls and
recording how much you add (in ounces); 24
hours later, measure how much is left and subtract
that from the total. Divide that gure by your dogs
body weight in poundsif it is around 1oz per lb
then your dogs thirst is normal, but contact your
vet if the gure is more than 2oz.

335

C ARE AND TR AINING | INHERITED DISORDERS

Inherited disorders
An inherited disorder is one that is passed on from one generation to the next.
Such disorders appear more often in pedigree dogs and may be breed-specic.
Some common examples are described below.
THE RISK OF DISEASE
Smaller gene pools and widespread inbreeding
in the past have made pedigree dogs more
likely than crossbreeds to be affected by
inherited disorders. However, although
crossbred dogs may be at reduced risk,
they still have a chance of inheriting
disease-causing genes from either parent.
HIP AND ELBOW DYSPLASIA
These two conditions occur mainly in
medium-sized and large breeds. In dysplasia,
structural defects either of the hip or the
elbow cause a joint to become unstable,
resulting in pain and lameness. Diagnosis is
based on the dogs history, together with
joint manipulation and radiography.
Treatment may consist of pain relief,
reducing exercise, and maintaining ideal
body weight. Various surgical options are
also available, including total hip replacement
for hip dysplasia. After a set age (generally
more than one year old), susceptible breeds
can be screened for hip and elbow dysplasia.
Radiograph of hip
Screening is advisable before using a dog for breeding
when hip dysplasia is known to occur in the breed. This
involves submitting a radiograph of the dogs hips for
scoring (see box below).

HIP SCORING
The hips are radiographed with the dog lying
on his back, hind legs extended straight out.
For best results, the dog may be given sedation
to keep him in the right position. Each hip joint
is given a score for six factors, covering
conditions from normal to severe. This gives
a maximum score of 53 for each hipthe
ideal is for as low a score as possible. Adding
the two scores together gives a total. When
selections are being made for breeding
purposes, it is best to choose a dog whose
total score is less than the current average
for that breed.

336

AORTIC STENOSIS
A congenital defect, present from birth,
aortic stenosis is a narrowing of the aortic
valve in the heart. There may be no signs,
the disorder being detected as a murmur
when a vet listens to the heart with a
stethoscope at a puppy check. It may be
investigated further (with radiography,
ultrasound, and ECG) or simply monitored,
as only a few dogs can be treated surgically.
Some dogs with aortic stenosis go on to
develop congestive heart failure.
BLOOD CLOTTING DISORDERS
The most common inherited clotting
disorder (in both dogs and humans) is
hemophilia, in which lack of an essential
factor for blood clotting results in recurrent
bleeding. The faulty gene responsible is
passed on by affected males to their female
offspring, who remain unaffected
themselves but can be carriers of the gene.
Hemophilia can occur in both pedigree and
crossbred dogs.

Another inherited blood clotting disorder


is Von Willebrands disease, which affects
many breeds of either sex. DNA tests are
available for some breeds.
EYE PROBLEMS
Dogs can be affected by several inherited eye
conditions, including some that are easily
visible, such as entropion (right), and others
that need internal examination of the eye
using specialized equipment. An eye disease
that can occur in any breed and also in
crossbred dogs is progressive retinal atrophy
(PRA). In this disorder, there is degeneration
of the retinathe layer of light-sensitive cells
at the back of the eyeleading to loss of
vision. An owner may become aware of PRA
when a dog begins to display sight problems,
which at rst may be only at night. PRA is
diagnosed from examining the retina with an
ophthalmoscope, and the vet may recommend
more specialized investigations. There is no
treatment and loss of vision is permanent.
DNA screening is available for some breeds.

INHERITED DISORDERS

Eye problems in the Shar Pei


Entropion, a painful inrolling of the eyelids, is common in
the Shar Pei, usually developing in very young puppies.
Both upper and lower eyelids may be affected.

Various breeds of collie (Smooth and


Border Collies, Shetland Sheepdog, and
Australian Shepherd) and some other breeds
are affected by a disorder known as collie
eye anomaly (CEA), in which there are
abnormalities in the choroid, a layer of
tissue at the back of the eye. CEA can be
detected from birth, so puppies are
examined before they are three months old.
The mildest form of CEA has little effect on
sight, but the most severe form can cause
blindness. DNA screening is available.
SCREENING FOR DISEASE
Routine screening is important in reducing
the incidence of inherited diseases. For
hip and elbow dysplasia, dogs are screened
by having radiographs taken (see box

Inherited blood disorders


Many breeds, including the German Shorthaired
Pointer, can be affected by Von Willebrands disease, an
inherited blood clotting disorder.

opposite). In the past, eye conditions


such as PRA and CEA could be identied
only by examination, but the advent
of DNA screening has improved the
chances of detecting both these and
many other inherited diseases.

Collie eye anomaly (CEA)


Collies such as the Australian Shepherd must be
checked as puppies for CEA, because early signs
can be masked as the dog matures.

337

C ARE AND TR AINING | PAR A SITES

Parasites
Even the most well-groomed dog is susceptible to invasion by skin parasites,
and it is common, too, for worms to live inside your pet. Prevention of parasites,
rather than having to treat an infestation and its effects, is the ideal.
FLEAS
You need to take year-round preventive
action against eas. Running a ea comb
through your dogs coat, especially over the
rump, may catch eas, which you can kill
by squashing them against the teeth of the
comb with a nger. You are more likely to
nd ea dirts, which show up as black
debris. Treatment includes spot-on products
(applied at the back of the neck), tablets, and
collars. Alternatively, you can spray, wash,
or powder your dog. Treat all other pets at
the same time as your dog. Fleas pass most
of their life cycle in carpets and furniture,
so you may need to use separate products
to eradicate them from the home.
TICKS
A seasonal problem, occurring mostly
in spring and fall, ticks can attach themselves
to your dog and may transmit diseases.
Some ticks carry the bacterium Borrelia
burgdorferi, acquired from mammals such as
rodents and deer, which causes Lyme disease
in humans and dogs.
Swift removal of a tick reduces the risk of
infections. Using tweezers or a tick hook, hold
the tick close to the dogs skin but without
squeezing its body. Gently twist to remove it.
If the head is embedded try to remove it, too.
Mouthparts left behind can cause a reaction
and a lump may develop, but treatment is not
usually needed and the lump will vanish. If
you live in or are traveling to an area known
for ticks, take preventive measures such as
spot-on treatments and collars.
MITES
Demodex mites are probably passed from
mother to puppies at birth. They affect the
skin on the head and around the eyes, and
can appear elsewhere, causing fur thinning,
bald areas, and a musty smell. These mites
may be found in skin scrapings from healthy
dogs but they particularly occur at times
of stress or illness when a dogs immune
338

system is weakened. Mild demodectic mange


resolves without treatment. Severe cases
need specic treatment to kill the mites,
which is continued until several skin scrapings
are clear; antibiotics may also be needed if
there is an associated skin infection.
The spiderlike Sarcoptes mite is commonly
passed on to dogs from foxes. It causes the
highly contagious sarcoptic mange with
intense itchiness, hair loss, and skin sores.
Your vet will recommend the best treatments.
The bright orange, nonparasitic harvest
mite may be picked up by a dog running in
elds in summer. It tends to be found on the

skin of the toes, ears, and around the eyes.


These mites rub off easily and usually cause
no reaction, but they may be linked to a
serious disorder called seasonal canine illness.
LICE
A dog that has lice will scratch frequently.
The lice can be seen in the coat and on the
skin, with nits (eggs) attached to hairs. The
entire life cycle of a louse takes place on an
Itchy skin
Fleas are the most common cause of skin irritation in dogs.
If ne-combing fails to detect them, ask your vet to check
your dog for other possible problems.

PAR A SITES

Healthy family
Roundworm prevention for these puppies started before
they were born, since their mother was treated during
pregnancy. They should be wormed regularly throughout life.
Danger in snails
Lungworm can be picked up if a dog eats an infected snail
or slug, either intentionally or accidentally if, for example,
there is one on a toy or bowl left outside.

individual dog and lasts less than three weeks.


Lice are transferred by close contactwith
other dogs or via grooming toolsbut not to
people. Your vet will recommend treatments.
ROUNDWORM
The adult worms, which look like strands
of spaghetti, live in the intestines, producing
eggs that pass out of the body in the feces
and mature for one to three weeks before
being infective to others, including humans.
This is why carefully disposing of your dogs
feces is so important. A dog can acquire
roundworms from the soil or by eating other
carriers such as rodents. Puppies can be
infected in the womb by roundworm larvae
passed on from their mother.
Prevention of roundworms starts with
treating the pregnant bitch and continues
after birth, both with the puppies and their
mother, and at regular intervals throughout
life. Ask your vet about which product to
use, as well as the worming schedule to
follow as your puppy grows up.
TAPEWORM
The eggs of the commonest tapeworm
species, Dipylidium caninum, are carried
by eas, and your dog can become
infected by licking eas off his coat
and swallowing them. The adult at,
segmented worm develops within the
gut, and sheds egg-containing segments,
which you may see as wriggly rice grains

around your dogs anus or in his feces. They


cause itching, and your dog may scoot his
bottom along the ground. Treatment
comprises tapeworm-specic medication,
together with ea control.
Your dog may pick up other tapeworm
species from eating offal, raw meat, wild
animals, or roadkill. Some tapeworms
are a serious health risk to humans.
LUNGWORM
Also known as French heartworm,
this parasite (Angiostrongylus vasorum)
is picked up by a dog eating snails and
slugs, which can carry the worm larvae.
Worms develop in the right ventricle
(chamber) of the heart and in the
pulmonary artery. The females lay eggs
containing rst-stage larvae, which
are carried in the bloodstream to the
lungs. Here they hatch, burrowing
into lung tissue and causing damage.
The dog coughs them up and swallows
them, passing them out in feces
as a source of further infection to
slugs and snails.
Lungworm can be hard to diagnose.
Various symptoms may include lethargy,
a cough, anemia, nose bleeds, weight loss,
poor appetite, vomiting, and diarrhea.
The dog may also display behavioral
changes. Diagnostic tests include
examining a tracheal wash and feces,
as well as radiography and blood tests.

Your vet will recommend drugs for


treatment and prevention of lungworm.
Pick up dog feces promptly (and fox feces,
too, if you nd them). Lungworm cannot be
passed directly to other pets or to humans.
HEARTWORM
This parasite (Dirolaria immitis) is
transmitted by the bite of an infected
mosquito. Heartworms live in the dogs
heart, lungs, and surrounding blood
vessels, and can cause death if left untreated.
Owners in high-risk areas should seek
prompt veterinary attention if their dog
develops a cough or becomes lethargic
during the mosquito season. Diagnosis
is by blood test and treatment is risky,
requiring the dog to rest for several weeks
afterward. Year-round prevention with
heartworm medicines is usually effective.

PREVENTING WORMS
Routine worming reduces the likelihood of
infestation. Your vet will advise you on the best
treatment for your puppy or dog. The ideal
program depends on the perceived risk, which
may be high if, for example, you walk your dog in
public places, he is an avid scavenger of dead
rodents, or he lives with small children. Strict ea
control is the key to tapeworm prevention. You
must weigh your dog, especially if he is still
growing, so that you give the correct dose.

339

C ARE AND TR AINING | NURSING A SICK DOG

Nursing a sick dog


There may be times when your dog needs to be nursed because he is sick or
recovering from surgery and cannot manage things he usually does on his own.
Follow your vets instructions and ask for advice if in doubt.
HOME CARE AFTER SURGERY
Dogs are rarely kept in overnight after
routine operations such as neutering.
Your vet will give you advice on any specic
care that is needed, and your dog may be
discharged with medication such as pain
relief. If he remains uncomfortable then
contact the vet.
Contrary to popular belief, a dog does more
harm than good if he licks at an undressed
wound, which will become sore and infected.
Most dogs accept wearing an Elizabethan
collar (or E collar)a large, cone-shaped
plastic collar that ts around the neck and
head (above right). Anti-lick strips can also
deter an inquisitive tongue and stop dogs from
removing dressings on paws and legs.
Keep dressings clean and dry by covering
with a boot or plastic bag when you take
your dog outside to relieve himself. If he
worries at a dressing excessively, or it
becomes smelly or soiled, then seek your
vets advice as soon as possible.
GIVING MEDICATION
Prescribed medication should be given as
directed by your vet, and only by an adult.
Make sure other pets do not ingest a drug
accidentally, especially if it is given in food.

Giving tablets and liquid medicine


Adding medicine to food is an easy way to administer it.
Check the directions rst: some medications need to be
taken on an empty stomach, or must not be crushed. If the
prescribed medication is a suspension, shake the bottle to
mix well. Remove the dose and give to your dog directly
into his mouth or with food.

If your dog is prescribed an antibiotic, it


is important that he completes the full
course. A liquid medication may need to
be shaken to ensure thorough mixing before
the dose is given.
Giving medication directly by mouth is
ideal, since you will be sure that your dog
has swallowed it. Speak to your vet if this is
difcult, since some medications can be
hidden in food or a treat (although not if
they must be taken on an empty stomach).
Unless the tablet is palatable, avoid crushing
and mixing it with food, since your dog may
then refuse to eat and will not receive the
medication. If your dog develops symptoms
such as an upset stomach (vomiting or
diarrhea) while on medication, then
discontinue the treatment until you have
spoken to a vet.
Administering eye drops
When applying eye drops, hold the dropper between your
thumb and forenger and squeeze the drops on to the
front of the eye. After applying the drops, gently hold your
dogs eyelids closed for a few seconds, and praise him.

340

FOOD AND WATER


Make sure your dog can reach his food and
water bowls comfortably, perhaps raising
them off the ground so he has no need
to reach down. You may be given a
prescription diet to help your dogs recovery,
but if he will not eat it ask your vet about
alternative suitable foods. A similar problem
may occur with your dog refusing to drink
recommended rehydration uids. In this
case, encourage him to drink cooled, boiled
water, which is better than taking no uids
at all, or mix some water in with his food.
REST AND EXERCISE
A postoperative dog needs to rest in a quiet
place at a warm, not hot, temperature with
comfortable bedding. He may prefer to sleep
away from the family, or he may seek
company. Exercise immediately after surgery
should be restricted unless you are advised
otherwise. Short, slow walks around the
yard are important to keep the joints,
bladder, and bowels functioning.

Sleeping it off
Following surgery your dog will probably
spend more time asleep than usual. Find
him a cozy place where he can let his
body recover.

C ARE AND TR AINING | FIRST AID

First aid
Dogs are inquisitive by nature and do not understand danger the way we do.
It is impossible to prevent accidents from happening, so be prepared to
provide emergency care if your dog is suddenly injured.

HELPING AN INJURED DOG


Minor injuries can often be treated at home,
but if your dog suffers a serious accident he
must be examined by a veterinarian. If
you know the basic rules of rst aid, you
will be able to provide help until the vet
arrives or, alternatively, the dog can be
transported to the vets practice.
When attending to an injured dog, you
may need to muzzle him; if he is in pain
and frightened, he may snap. Move him
only if absolutely necessary.
In the case of bleeding, try to stem the
ow of blood from any major wounds
with direct pressure, carefully raising
the injured area above the level of the
heart, if possible.
If an injured dog is unconscious, put
him in the recovery position. To do this,
remove his collar and place him on his
right side, with his head and neck in line
with his body. Gently pull his tongue
forward to let it hang out of the side
of his mouth.
WOUNDS
Never leave a wound to heal itselfeven
the smallest injury can become infected,
especially if a dog licks it. If your dog has
a severe wound, seek veterinary help as soon
as possible. Similarly, if a wound is caused
by another dog or pet, then it should be
attended to by a vet as soon as possible,
since it may become infected.
A small, clean wound can be treated at
home. Gently ush the wound with saline
solution (preprepared, or a teaspoon of
salt dissolved in two cups of warm water)
to remove any dirt or debris. Apply a
dressing or a bandage, if possible,
to prevent the dog from licking at the wound.
Use appropriate materials if you have them
on hand, or improvise with socks or
pantyhose to cover a wound on a limb, or a
T-shirt for wounds on the chest or abdomen.
342

Use adhesive tape rather than safety pins


to hold a bandage in place. Be careful not
to apply the bandage too tightly, keep it
dry, and change it regularly to check on
the wound. Always seek advice if you notice
an offensive smell or if a discharge seeps
through the bandage.
A deep or extensive wound requires
urgent veterinary attention because stitches
may be needed. Apply a temporary bandage
as best you can to stem the bleeding. If the
wound is on a limb, raise it and apply direct
pressure via bandages or other padding, and
bandage the pad in place. A tourniquet is not
advised. Take great care if a foreign body

is stuck in the wound: make sure not to push


it in more deeply and do not attempt to
remove it yourself.
For a wound on the chest, apply bandages
soaked in warm saline solution or cooled,
boiled water and hold them in place with
bandaging or a T-shirt. A wound on the ear
ap will spray blood whenever your dog
shakes his head. Cover the wound with a
bandage and secure the ear ap to his head.
Aftercare will depend on the nature of the
wound. Bandages need to be changed every
25 days, as advised by your vet. All bandages
must be kept dry, so cover with a waterproof
layer when your dog goes outside.

Emergency ear bandage


To protect an ear wound and prevent your
dog from scratching it, bandage the ear
ap at against the top of the head. A pair
of old pantyhose makes a suitable bandage.

FIRST AID

HOW TO BANDAGE A PAW

Apply a sterile dressing. Run a soft conforming


bandage down the front of the leg, over the paw, up
behind, then back to the paw and up the front again.

BURNS
Painful and sometimes severe damage to
the skin can be caused by contact with heat,
electricity, or chemicals. Burns caused by
re or a hot object such as an iron, or
scalding with hot liquid are treated in the
same way. Remove your dog from the source
of the injury without endangering yourself,
then contact your vet for advice; a burn or
scald can be very serious, with hidden
damage to deep tissues. Keep the dog warm
and still while taking him to the vet. He will
be given some pain relief and may also
require treatment for shock if the area
affected is extensive.

CAR ACCIDENTS
Take every precaution to protect your dog from
trafc accidentsalways keep him on a leash
when on or near a road. If your dog is involved in
an accident, keep him warm until help arrives.
Do not put yourself at risk to tend to him.

Wind the bandage around the leg down to the paw


and then back up the leg. Repeat the earlier steps with
an elasticated gauze bandage.

Repeat with a nal cohesive layer, running it up on


to the fur to secure it. Zinc oxide tape can also be used
to secure the top of the dressing.

Electrical burns to the mouth sustained by


biting a power cable are common. Turn
off the power at source before handling your
dog. Urgent veterinary attention and care
will be needed for pain relief and also
because an electric shock can cause
dangerous complications.
If your dog has been burned by chemicals,
be careful not to contaminate yourself while
handling the dog. Identify and note down
the substances that have caused the burns
and contact your vet immediately.
RESUSCITATION
If a dog needs to be resuscitated, it is
important for you to stay calm. Call a vet
for advice or, ideally, ask someone else to
make the call while you place the dog in the
recovery position.
If the dog is not breathing, start articial
respiration. Place your hands one over the
other on the chest wall, just behind the
shoulders. Apply a sharp downward
movement every 35 seconds, allowing the
chest wall to spring back in between each
thrust, until voluntary breathing begins.
Check for the dogs circulation by feeling
for a pulse (on the inside of the thigh) and
a heartbeat (on the side of the chest just
behind the elbow). If the heart has stopped,
begin cardiac massage. For small dogs, place
the ngers and thumb of one hand around
the chest just behind the elbow and squeeze
them together twice per second while your
other hand is supporting the spine.

Resuscitation
If a dog's heart has stopped beating, his chances of
recovery depend on resuscitation being started within
a few minutes. Cardiac massage to keep the circulation
going is a simple technique that can be life-saving.

For medium-sized dogs, place the heel of


one hand on the dogs chest just behind the
elbow; place your other hand on top and
press down on the chest approximately
80100 times per minute.
If the dog is large or overweight, lay him
on his back with his head slightly lower than
his body, if possible. Place one hand on his
chest over the lower end of the breastbone
with your other hand on top and apply
compressions directed toward the dogs head,
approximately 80100 times per minute.
Check for a pulse after 15 seconds of
applying compressions. If the heartbeat is
still absent, continue with cardiac massage
until you feel a pulse. If someone else is with
you, they can give articial respiration at
the same time.
343

C ARE AND TR AINING | FIRST AID

CHOKING AND POISONING


It is in a dogs nature to chew or eat anything
that looks promising, but this can get him
into trouble, and you will need to act quickly
if it does. A dog can choke on all kinds
of objects, including bones, rawhide chews,
and childrens toys. He may drool or paw
frantically at his mouth if the object is
wedged in his mouth, and may have difculty
breathing if it is obstructing his airway.
Only attempt to retrieve the object from
your dogs mouth if you will not be bitten or
there is no risk of pushing it farther into the
throat. Putting something across your dogs
jaw to prevent him from closing his mouth is
a good idea if it does not make it harder to
retrieve the object. Ideally, use something
rubbery or a pad of material to keep from
damaging his teeth; never use a muzzle.
If you cannot remove the object, or are
concerned that your dogs mouth has been
damaged, take him straight to a vet.
If you see your dog swallow something he
should not, contact your vet for advice. Very
small objects may pass through the dog
without causing a problem. A larger object
may need to be removed, preferably from
the stomach before it enters the intestines.
The most common way for a dog to be
poisoned is by scavenging something not
meant for him. If you are worried that your

dog may have eaten harmful substances,


or he has persistent vomiting or diarrhea,
keep any packaging and immediately
contact your vet for advice.
Take preventive action by always storing
anything remotely edible out of reach. This
includes all medication, both veterinary and
human; antifreeze (ethylene glycol), which
has a sweet taste but will cause kidney failure;
weed killers and slug bait, which are easily
found in the yard; and household cleaners
(even if you keep them in an inaccessible
cabinet, remember that your dog may drink
from a toilet that has a chemical released
into the water when ushed).
Bait to control rodents should be used and
stored well out of your dogs reach. Many
rat poisons interfere with the action of
vitamin K, which is essential to the bodys
blood-clotting process. This causes internal
bleeding, which will not become immediately
apparent. If you know or suspect that your
dog has eaten rat poison, or a poisoned
rodent, take the dog straight to the vet and
bring along any relevant packaging.
Chocolate is highly appealing to a dog but
is toxic if it has a high cocoa-solid content.
Onions and their relatives, including leeks,
garlic, and scallions, are also poisonous.
Generally, the smaller the dog, the smaller
the amount of toxin needed to have an

effect. However, this is not the case


with grapes, both fresh and dried (raisins,
golden raisins, and currants), which
are recognized as potential poisons.
BITES AND STINGS
Dogs are naturally inquisitive, exploring
with their noses, so bites and stings from
venomous animals or insects tend to be
on the head and legs.
Bees and wasps are a common risk to dogs
both indoors and outdoors. If your dog is
stung, move him quickly to prevent further
stings. Check for insects trapped in your
dogs coat and look for the site of the sting.
Bees leave their stinger behind, so remove it
carefully with tweezers if you can do this
without squeezing the poison sac. Wasps
can sting repeatedly. Bathe the area with
baking soda dissolved in water (for bee
stings) or with vinegar (for wasp stings),
then apply antihistamine cream. Cover the
area to prevent the dog from licking it. If
your dog is in pain or his condition worsens,
take him to the vet. It is an emergency if
your dog has been stung in the mouth or
develops a severe allergic reaction (opposite).
Your dog may encounter poisonous toads,
which release venom from the skin glands. If
your dog licks the toad or picks it up, he may
ingest the venom and will react by salivating
Raiding the garbage
A dogs dietary indiscretions include raiding the
garbage can. Use containers such as pedal-operated
or mechanical push-opening trash cans that will not
yield to a dogs questioning nose.

Dangerous bones
A bone can pose a choking hazard if it is small enough
to become wedged across the roof of the mouth or
between the teeth, or if shards are swallowed and
become stuck in the gullet.

344

FIRST AID

Lurking in the undergrowth


Stinging insects, poisonous snakes, and other dangers can
remain hidden in long grass until disturbed by an exploring
nose. If your dog is bitten or stung, attend to him quickly
and keep him calm.

ANAPHYLACTIC SHOCK
Occasionally, a dog may have an extreme
reaction shortly after exposure to something to
which he is acutely sensitivefor example, bee
venom, especially if he has had multiple stings.
This severe allergic reaction, which is known as
anaphylactic shock, can be a life-threatening
situation. Initial signs of anaphylactic shock
include vomiting and excitability, rapidly leading
to breathing difculties, collapse, coma, and
death. Immediate treatment is needed at a
veterinary practice if the dog is to survive.

excessively and appearing anxious. Carefully


ush out his mouth with water and seek
advice from your vet if you are concerned.
Venomous snakes are encountered
worldwide. Their toxicity depends on the
species, the amount of venom injected
relative to the dogs size, and the site of the
bite. The effects of a snake bite develop
rapidly within two hours. You can often see
the puncture wounds from the bite, and
painful swelling develops. A bitten dog may
become lethargic and show other signs of
poisoning, including rapid heart rate and
panting, overheating, pale mucous
membranes, excessive salivation, and
vomiting. In severe cases, the dog may go
into shock or a coma. Speed is of the essence,
so take your dog to a vet without delay.

place to somewhere cool. Cover him with


wet sheets or towels, put him in a bathtub of
cold water, or run a steady stream of water
over him from a garden hose. Ice packs or a
fan can also be used.
Heat stroke is often caused by leaving your
dog in the car. It is not enough just to leave
the windows open, even if you have parked
in the shade. The risk is higher if there are
several dogs in the car, or the dog is hot and
panting from recent exercise.
The reverse of heat stroke is hypothermia,
when the bodys core temperature falls to
dangerously low levels. A dog can develop
hypothermia if kept in a drafty kennel, left in
an unheated car or room, or if he goes into a
pond or lake in the winter. Puppies and older
dogs are the most vulnerable. A dog with

HEAT STROKE AND


HYPOTHERMIA
If a dog overheats he cannot cool down again
by sweating like humans do. If conned in a
car on a hot day or shut in a sunroom at
home, especially if there is no drinking water
available, your dog can rapidly develop heat
stroke. This is a risky condition in which the
bodys temperature-regulating mechanism
breaks down. Without urgent veterinary
attention, a dog can die within as little as 20
minutes. Signs include panting, distress, and
reddening of the gums, rapidly leading to
collapse, coma, and ultimately death. The
priority is to move the dog from the hot

Danger of overheating
Even with the window down, a car quickly becomes an
oven, even at only moderately warm temperatures. Left
shut in, this dog would be at risk of heat stroke.

hypothermia may shiver or move stify and


appear lethargic. He needs to be warmed up
gradually with a blanket until taken to a vet.
The vet will give him warm uids directly
into a vein and treat him for shock.
CONVULSIONS
Convulsions are caused by abnormal
activity in the brain. In a young dog, the
cause is likely to be epilepsy; in an older dog,
the reasons may vary but could include a
brain tumor. If your dog has a seizure, make
a note of when it occurred and any other
relevant details, such as whether the
television was on, or whether your dog had
just eaten or come back from a walk.
Convulsions classically occur when a dog
is dozing, and signs may be trembling and
twitching, or your dog may lie on his side
with his legs paddling as if running. A
convulsion lasts from only seconds to a few
minutes. Your dog may be aggressive during
a convulsion or while in recovery.
A dog may have more than one convulsion
within a few hours or days of each other.
More worryingly, he may have a run of
seizures, where he is not fully conscious
between each episode. This is called status
epilepticus and is a real emergency
that requires urgent veterinary attention.
There are various drug options for
treating epilepsy, and regular monitoring
is needed to ensure that the drug is at the
correct level to control the seizures.
345

C ARE AND TR AINING | BREEDING

Breeding
Making the decision to breed from your dog should not be taken lightly.
Not only is it an expensive and time-consuming process, but it can also result
in adding to the enormous surplus of dogs without homes.
CONSIDER THE REASONS
Before you breed from your dog, it is
important to think long and hard about your
reasons for wanting to have a litter of puppies.
It is easy to get carried away with thoughts of
cute puppies playing around your home, but
the reality is that rearing a litter is extremely
hard work. Do lots of research and plan
everything carefully, and speak to a reputable
professional breeder. If you decide that you
dont want to breed from your dog, it is best
to have it neutered.
PREGNANCY AND PRENATAL CARE
Dogs are pregnant for 63 days, but puppies
can be born a few days on either side of this.
Let your vet know early on that you have had
your bitch mated. The vet will be an
invaluable source of advice throughout your
bitchs pregnancy and will advise on measures
to keep your bitch parasite-free so that she
doesnt pass infestations on to her puppies.
There is no need to increase the amount
of food your bitch eats in the early stages of
pregnancy. However, from around six weeks
the food needs to be increased by about
10 percent each week. At this time your
dogs exercise requirements are also likely to
change. Shorter, more frequent walks that
avoid very energetic activities are best.

Whelping area
Spend time making sure that your dog feels relaxed in
the whelping area and get her used to you going in with
her. Keep her favorite toys or blanket in the box to make
it more inviting.

346

WHELPING
Long before your dog is due to have her
puppies, set up a whelping area. The location
of this is vital. It should be in the house so
that your dog feels comfortable and the
puppies get used to everyday household
noises. However, it also needs to be in an
out-of-the-way place where few people will
need to walk once the puppies are born. It
should be warm, dry, quiet, and draft-free.
The whelping box itself can be either shop
bought or homemade.
Whelping can be a daunting prospect;
however, it normally occurs without any
problems. The key to a smooth whelping is
preparation so you know what to expect and
what to do if things start to go wrong.
Individual bitches vary drastically in their
behavior, but there are some telltale signs
that whelping is imminent. Approximately
24 hours before whelping she may become
restless because of the discomfort she will
feel as her uterus prepares to expel the
puppies. She may also refuse food, pant very
deeply, and scratch and dig at the bedding of

her whelping boxyou can provide her with


paper to rip up. Your bitch will be visibly
calm just before the arrival of the rst puppy
and you should see the muscles around her
abdomen contract as she makes efforts to
push the rst puppy out. The time to wait
until the next puppy is passed can vary
greatly. During that time the newborn
puppies should be encouraged to suckle and
your bitch urged to tend to them. If some
time has passed and the bitch appears
relaxed and is attentive to her puppies, the
whelping process is over.
POSTNATAL CARE
With the worries of the whelping process
now behind you, all your focus must
switch to making sure that your bitch has
everything she needs and that her puppies
get the best possible start in life.
Natural birth
After giving birth your bitch will strip off the membrane
from the amniotic sac and sever the umbilical cord with
her teeth. You should only intervene if she appears to be
biting the cord too closely or pulling too vigorously.

BREEDING

Handling a newborn puppy


Take a moment to check each newborn puppy
over and rub it dry with a clean towel. Then return
the puppy to the mother without delay.

Housebreaking
Accidents will happen but you will be making it
easier for the new owners to complete the training
if you get puppies habituated to using newspaper
when relieving themselves.

As lactation requires a huge amount of


energy, your bitch will need about twice the
number of calories she was consuming prior
to whelping, and the meals need to be little
and often. She will also require lots of water.
As she will be reluctant to leave her puppies,
feeding her in the whelping box is advisable.
She certainly wont need any exercise and
will only need to be taken out for short visits
to relieve herself a few times a day.
The natural maternal instincts your bitch
has means that you will not need to do
anything with the puppies initially. They
should not be interfered with, other than
to be checked over to ensure they are healthy
and are putting on weight, and that they
drink some of the bitchs rst milk. Called
colostrum, this initial milk provides the
puppies with essential antibodies and is vital
to their health. Within a couple of weeks
you will need to trim the puppies nails to
prevent them scratching their mothers skin
as they suckle.
EARLY PUPPY CARE
By the time the puppies are a few weeks old,
their care becomes a full-time job. This is the
most important time of the puppies lives and
there is much to prepare them for.
The puppies will soon begin to develop
teeth, at which point their diet should
consist of solid food as well as plenty of
chew toys to help the teething process.
Introduce solid food slowly and in tiny

quantities at rst so that the puppies get


used to digesting it. Make sure you buy
specially formulated puppy food, which
is high in energy with the correct balance
of nutrients.
Teaching a few simple rules in the
breeders home can make the difference
between a condent and well-adjusted
puppy and one that is likely to develop
behavioral problems. It is entirely possible to
train puppies before they go to their new
homes so that they only relieve themselves
on newspaper. This makes it much easier
for the new owners to complete their
housebreaking. In addition, spending
a few minutes with each puppy every day
gets them used to being handled, and will
allow you to train them to do some basic
behaviors on command, such as sit.
The most important factor of training is to
expose your puppies to a range of everyday
experiences. It is important to include them
in family activities and help them socialize
with people of all ages. Most puppies go
into a home environment and, therefore,
during these early weeks, getting them used
to the sorts of sights and noises that
accompany the daily comings and goings of
a household is imperative. When they are
only a few weeks old, puppies will happily
accept new experiences with minimal
reassurance. If a puppy has had good early
socialization with the breeder, he will emerge
a condent youngster.

NEW HOMES FOR PUPPIES


After investing so much time in the planning and
rearing of the puppies, you will be very attached
to them. Your next responsibility is to ensure that
you send them to the best possible homes.
Contact breed societies and the American
Kennel Club to place advertisements; you can
also place an ad at your veterinary practice.
Spend time getting to know each puppys
future owner so that you can start preparing
your puppy for its new lifestyle.
Encourage prospective owners to visit often
and give them as much information as possible
to prepare them. Inform them about general
and breed-specic care and training.

347

GLOSSARY

Glossary
Stop

A dogs body plan


All dogs have the same basic body design,
although centuries of selective breeding
have produced dramatic variations.

Occiput

Cheek

BREED STANDARD The detailed description


of a breed that species exactly how the dog
should look, the acceptable colors and
markings, and the range of height and/or
weight measurements.

Withers
Shoulder

Hip

Loins

BRINDLE A color mix in which dark


hairs form a striped pattern on lighter
background of tan, gold, gray, or brown.

Croup

Muzzle
Flews

BRISKET The breastbone.


Tail

Sternum

Upper thigh
Chest

Belly
Lower thigh

Foreleg
Elbow

Stie

BUTTON EARS Semierect ears in which the


top part folds down toward the eye covering the
ear opening. They are seen on breeds such as the
Smooth Fox Terrier and Wire Fox Terrier.
CANDLE-FLAME EARS Long, narrow, erect
ears that are shaped like a candle ame. They are
seen on breeds such as the English Toy Terrier.

Hock

CAPE Thick hair covering the shoulders.


Pastern
Wrist

Carpal pad

Toes

Claws

ACHONDROPLASIA A form of dwarsm that


affects the long bones of the limbs, causing them
to bow outward. It is a genetic mutation that has
been selectively bred for, resulting in short-legged
breeds such as the Dachshund.
ALMOND-SHAPED EYES Oval eyes with
slightly attened corners that are present in
breeds such as the Kooikerhondje and the English
Springer Spaniel.
BEARD Thick, sometimes coarse and bushy
hair around the lower facial area. Often seen in
wire-haired breeds.
BELTON A coat pattern that is a mix of white
and colored hairs (roan) that may have a ecked
or ticked appearance.

BLANKET, BLANKET MARKINGS


Large areas of color over the back and sides
of the body; commonly used to describe
hound markings.
BLAZE Broad, white marking running from
near the top of the head to the muzzle.
BRACHYCEPHALIC HEAD A head
that is almost as wide as it is long due
to shortening of the muzzle. The Bulldog and
Boston Terrier are examples of breeds with this
head shape.
BRACKE A term used for Continental hounds
that specialize in running down small game such
as rabbit or fox.

BICOLOR Any color combined with


white patches.

BREECHES Fringing of longer hair on


the thighs, which is also known as culottes
or pants.

BLACK AND TAN A coat color with clearly


dened areas of black and tan. The black color is
usually found on the body and the tan color on
the underparts, muzzle, and perhaps as spots
above the eyes. This pattern also occurs in liver
and tan and blue and tan coats.

BREED Domestic dogs that have been selectively


bred to have the same distinctive appearance.
They conform to a breed standard drawn up by a
breed club and approved by an internationally
recognized body, such as the Kennel Club, FCI,
or American Kennel Club.

348

CARNASSIAL TEETH Cheek teeth (upper


fourth premolar and lower rst molar) that are
used, rather like a pair of scissors, to slice through
meat, hide, and bone.
CATLIKE FEET Round, compact feet with
the toes grouped closely together.
CONFORMATION The general apearance
of a dog that is determined by the development
of individual features and their relationship
to one another.
CROUP An area of the back just above the
base of the tail.
CROPPED EARS Ears that are erect and pointed
due to surgical removal of part of the ear cartilage.
The procedure, which is illegal in many countries,
is normally carried out when puppies are about
1016 weeks old.
DANDER Small scales of dead skin shed
from the body.
DAPPLE A spotted coat of darker markings
on a lighter background. Usually used as a
description for short-haired breeds only;
merle is used to describe the same coloring
in long-haired dogs.
DEWCLAW A non-weight-bearing toe on the
inner side of the foot. Some breeds, such as the
Norwegian Lundehund, have double dewclaws.

GLOSSARY
DEWLAP Loose, hanging skin that falls in folds
on the chin, throat, and neck of some breeds: for
example, the Bloodhound.

HARLEQUIN A color pattern comprising


irregularly sized patches of black on white; seen
only in the Great Dane.

DOCKED TAIL A tail cut to a specic length,


according to the breed standard. The procedure is
normaly done when puppies are only a few days
old. The practice is illegal in parts of Europe, except
on working dogs such as the German Pointer.

HOCK Joint on the hind leg; equivalent to the


human heel; in dogs this is elevated because they
walk on their toes.

DOLICHOCEPHALIC HEAD A long, narrow


head with an imperceptible stop, as seen in the
Borzoi, for example.
DOUBLE COAT Coat consisting of a thick,
warm underlayer and a weatherproof top layer.
DROP EARS Ears that hang down from their
base. Pendant ears are a more extreme form of
drop ears, being longer and heavier.
ERECT EARS Upright or pricked ears with
pointed or rounded tips. Candle-ame ears are
an extreme type of erect ears.
ESTRUS A period of about three weeks in the
reproductive cycle during which a female dog can
be mated. Primitive breeds tend to come into
estrus once a year (as do wolves); in other breeds
it is usually twice a year.
FEATHERS, FEATHERING Fringes of hair
that may be found on the ear margins, belly,
backs of legs, and the underside of the tail.
FLEWS The lips of a dog. Most commonly used
to describe the eshy, hanging upper lips in dogs
of the mastiff type.
FORELOCK Lock of hair on the forehead that
falls forward between the ears.
FURROW A shallow groove, seen in some breeds,
that runs from the top of the head down to the stop.

ISABELLA A fawn color found in some breeds,


including the Bergamasco and Dobermann.
MASK Dark coloration on the face, usually
around the muzzle and eyes.
MERLE A marbled coat with darker patches or
spots. Blue merle (black on a bluish-gray
background) is the most common variation.
MESATICEPHALIC HEAD Head shape in
which the base and width are of medium
proportions. The Labrador Retriever and Border
Collie are examples of breeds with this type of
head shape.
NEUTERING A surgical procedure that prevents
dogs from breeding. Male dogs are castrated at
about six months and female dogs spayed about
three months after their rst estrus.

GRIZZLE Usually a mixture of black and white


hairs, which gives a blue-gray or iron-gray shading
to the coat. It is seen in some breeds of terrier.
GROUP Dog breeds are classied into various
groups by the Kennel Club, FCI, and American
Kennel Club. The groups are loosely based on
function but no two systems agree. The number
and names of the groups differ, as do the breeds
that are recognized and included in them.
HACKNEY GAIT Dogs with this type of action,
such as the Miniature Pinscher, raise the lower part
of the leg particularly high as they walk.

SEMIERECT EARS Erect ears in which only


the tip is inclined forward, as seen in breeds such
as the Rough Collie (right).
SESAME A coat color comprising an equal
mixture of black and white hairs. In black
sesame, there are more black hairs than white;
red sesame is a mixture of red and black hairs.
SICKLE TAIL Tail that is carried in a half circle
over the back.
SPOONLIKE FEET Similar to catlike feet but
more oval in shape because the middle toes are
longer than the outer toes.
STOP The indentation between the muzzle
and the top of the head, in between the eyes.
The stop is almost absent in dolichocephalic
breeds, such as the Borzoi, and very pronounced
in brachycephalic and dome-headed breeds, such
as the Cocker Spaniel and the Chihuahua.
TEMPERAMENT The character of a dog.
TOPCOAT Outer coat of guard hairs.

OTTER TAIL A thickly furred, rounded tail


that has a broad base and tapers to the tip; the
hair on the underside is parted.

TOPKNOT Long tuft of hair on the top of the


head.

PACK Usually used to describe a group of scent


or sight hounds that hunt together.

TOPLINE The outline of the dogs upper body


from ears to tail.

PASTERN Lower part of the leg, below the


carpals (wrist bones) of the foreleg or the hock on
the hind leg.

TRICOLOR A coat of three colors in welldened patches, usually black, tan, and white.

PENDANT EARS Ears that hang down from


their base; an extreme form of drop ears.
PENDULOUS LIPS Full, loosely hanging upper
or lower lips.

GAIT Movement or action.


GRIFFON (Fr.) Referring to a coarse or wire coat.

the mouth is closed. The other teeth interlock with


no gaps and form the cutting edge of the scissors.

ROSE EARS Small, drop ears that fold outward


and backward so that part of the ear canal is
exposed. This type of ear is seen in Whippets.
RUFF A long, thick collar of stand-out hair
around the neck.
SABLE A coat color in which hairs tipped with
black overlay a lighter background color.
SADDLE A darker colored area that extends
over the back.
SCISSORS BITE The normal bite of dogs with
mesaticephalic and dolichocephalic heads. The
upper incisors (front teeth) are slightly in front
of but in contact with the lower incisors when

TUCKED UP Referring to the belly, an upward


curve to the abdomen toward the hindquarters,
typically seen in breeds such as the Greyhound
and the Whippet.
UNDERCOAT Underlayer of hair, usually
short, thick, and sometimes woolly, that
provides insulation between the topcoat
and the skin.
UNDERSHOT Facial conformation in which
the lower jaw protrudes beyond the upper jaw,
seen in breeds such as the Bulldog.
UNDERSHOT BITE The normal bite of
brachycephalic breeds such as the Bulldog.
Because the lower jaw is longer than the
upper jaw, the incisor teeth do not meet
and the lower incisors are in front of the
upper ones.
WITHERS The highest point of the shoulder,
where the neck meets the back. A dogs height is
measured vertically from the ground to the withers.

349

INDE X

Index
The dog breeds listed in this index may be followed by any combination
of the initials KC (Kennel Club), FCI (Federation Cynologique
Internationalethe World Canine Organization), and AKC (American
Kennel Club). The initials indicate which of these three international
organizations recognizes the breed. Occasionally the KC, FCI, and AKC
recognize the same breed but use a different name from the one used in this
book. This alternative name is also listed along with the initials of the
organization that uses it. Some breeds have been granted provisional
acceptance by the FCI and these are indicated here as FCI*.
Other breeds have no initials following their name but may be recognized by
other kennel clubs in their country of origin and be in the approval process
of one of the organizations listed here.

Numbers in bold refer to


main entries

advertising, dogs in 23, 56, 146,


188, 260, 283, 286
Aesops Fables 20
Affenpinscher KC, FCI, AKC 218,
219, 266
Afghan Hound KC, FCI, AKC 24,
125, 136
Afghanistan, Treo (Labradinger)
sniffer dog 295
African Lion Dog see Rhodesian
Ridgeback
aggressive behavior 328, 331
agility trials 25, 104, 161, 207
Aidi FCI 68
Ainsley, Joseph, Bedlington Terrier
breeder 203
Ainu Dog see Hokkaido Dog
Airedale Terrier KC, FCI, AKC
185, 19899, 200
Akbash 75
kerblom, Maria, Kromfohrlnder
216
Akita KC, AKC 99, 111
Alapaha Blue Blood Bulldog 88
Alaskan Husky 104
Alaskan Klee Kai 99, 104
Alaskan Malamute KC, FCI, AKC
12, 10203
Alpenlndische Dachsbracke FCI
see Alpine Dachsbracke
Alpine Dachsbracke 169
Alsatian see German Shepherd Dog
Alzheimers Disease, Smooth Collies
as companions to sufferers 54
American Akita FCI see Akita
American Bulldog 267

350

American Cocker Spaniel KC, FCI


see Cocker Spaniel
American Dingo see Carolina Dog
American English Coonhound AKC
159
American Eskimo Dog AKC 116,
121
American Foxhound FCI, AKC 157
American Hairless Terrier 212
American Pit Bull Terrier 185, 213
American Staffordshire Terrier FCI,
AKC 213
American Toy Terrier see Toy Fox
Terrier
American Water Spaniel KC, FCI,
AKC 229
Amundsen, Roald, polar expedition
(Greenland Dog) 100
Anatolian Shepherd Dog KC, AKC
74
anatomy see dogs, anatomy
ancient Egypt 20, 24, 131
ancient Greece and Rome 22, 24,
92, 97
Andrex toilet paper ads 23, 260
Anglo-Franais de Petite Vnerie
FCI 154
Anheuser-Busch beer company
emblem, Dalmatian 286
Appenzell Cattle Dog 71
Appenzeller Sennenhund FCI see
Appenzell Cattle Dog
archeological evidence 8, 22, 36
Argos, Odysseuss hunting dog 20
Ariege Hound see Arigeois
Ariege Pointing Dog 257
Arigeois FCI 162, 163
art, dogs in
Art Deco art, Borzoi 132
Dali, Salvador, Metamorphosis
of Narcissis 23

Duke, Alfred, Soft-coated


Wheaten Terrier painting 205
Drer, Albrecht, Poodle
engravings 277
Emms, John, Jack Russell 194
Freud, Lucien, Girl with a
White Dog 23
Gainsborough, Thomas, The
Morning Walk (Pomeranian) 118
Goya, Francisco, Pug paintings
269
Greuze, Jean Baptiste, Madame
de Porcin (Papillon) 123
Hockney, David, Dachshund 170
Hogarth, William, Pug paintings
22, 23, 269
Mantegna, Andrea, The Court
of Gonzaga mural (Spinone
Italiano) 250
Miro, Joan, Dog Barking at the
Moon 23
Renoir, Pierre-Auguste, The
Boating Party 23
Steen, Jan, The Way You Hear It...
(Kooikerhondje) 238
Stubbs, George, Ringwood, a
Brocklesby Foxhound 22
Titian, Emperor Charles
V portrait 23
Titian, Venus of Urbino
(Papillon) 122
Van Dyck, Anthony, King Charles
Spaniel painting 279
Wegman, William,
Weimaraner 248
Artemis (Diana),
dog sculptures 22
The Artist (lm) 21
Artois Hound 162
As Good As It Gets (lm), Brussels
Griffon 266
Atlas Mountain Dog see Aidi
Australian Cattle Dog KC, FCI,
AKC 39, 6263
Australian Heeler see Australian
Cattle Dog
Australian Kelpie FCI 61
Australian Shepherd KC, FCI, AKC
68, 284, 337
Australian Silky Terrier KC,
FCI see Silky Terrier
Australian Terrier KC, FCI,
AKC 192
Austrian Black and Tan Hound 150
Austrian Pinscher 218
Auvergne Pointer 257
Azawakh KC, FCI 137

Azores Cattle Dog see St. Miguel


Cattle Dog
Aztecs 20, 25

Balto, US diphtheria epidemic


(Siberian Husky) 101
Bany, St. Bernards Hospice 76
bark, lack of (Basenji) 31
barking, excessive 330
barking up the wrong tree,
American English Coonhound 159
Basenji KC, FCI, AKC 17,
29, 3031
Basset Artesien Normand FCI 149
Basset Bleu de Gascogne KC,
FCI 163
Basset Fauve de Bretagne KC,
FCI 149
Basset Hound KC, FCI, AKC
14647, 227
Bavarian Mountain Hound
KC 175
Bayeux Tapestry 22
Bayrischer Gebirgsschweisshund
FCI see Bavarian Mountain
Hound
Beagle KC, FCI, AKC 139,
15253, 154, 297
Beagle Harrier FCI 154
Bearded Collie KC, FCI, AKC 19,
56, 57
Beauceron KC, AKC 86
Bedlington Terrier KC, FCI,
AKC 20203
Bedouin, Saluki 131
Belgian Barge Dog see Schipperke
Belgian Griffon 266, 269
Belgian Malinois AKC 41
Belgian Sheepdog AKC 41
Belgian Shepherd Dog see
Groenendael; Laekenois;
Malinois; Tervueren
Belgian Tervuren AKC 41
Bergamasco KC 64
Berger Blanc Suisse FCI see White
Swiss Shepherd Dog
Berger de Brie FCI see Briard
Berger Picard FCI see Picardy
Sheepdog
Berner Sennenhund FCI see Bernese
Mountain Dog
Bernese Laufhund see Laufhund
Bernese Mountain Dog KC,
AKC 7273
Bernese Niederlaufhund 174

INDE X

Bhotia see Himalayan Sheepdog


Bichon Frise KC, AKC 271,
274, 292
Bichon Yorkie 292
Big Red (lm) (Irish Setter) 21, 243
Billy FCI 166, 167, 169
bitches in season 17
bites and stings 34445
Black & White Scotch Whisky
ad (West Highland White
Terrier and Scottish Terrier)
23, 188
Black Devil see Affenpinscher
Black Forest Hound 178
Black Norwegian Elkhound 110
Black Russian Terrier AKC 185,
200
Black and Tan Coonhound AKC,
FCI 160
Black-and-Tan Coonhound
KC see Black and Tan
Coonhound
Bleu de Gascogne 167, 168
see also Basset, Grand, and Petit
Bleu de Gascogne
Bloodhound KC, AKC 12, 25,
141, 160
Blue Gascony Griffon 163
Blue Picardy Spaniel 236, 239
Bluetick Coonhound AKC 161, 165
boarding kennels 309
Bobtail Sheepdog see Old English
Sheepdog
Boerboel 88
Bohemian Terrier see Cesky Terrier
Bolognese KC, FCI 274
Bonnard, Pierre 23
Border Collie KC, FCI, AKC
39, 51, 61, 337
Border Terrier KC, FCI, AKC 207
Borne, Otto, Kromfohrlnder
breeder 216
Borzoi KC, AKC 125, 130, 132
Bosanski Ostrodlaki Gonic Barak
FCI see Bosnian Rough-coated
Hound
Bosnian Rough-coated Hound 179
Boston Terrier KC, FCI, AKC 196
Bouledogue Franais FCI see French
Bulldog
Bourbonnais Pointing Dog 257
Bouvier des Ardennes FCI 48
Bouvier des Flandres KC, FCI,
AKC 46, 47
Boxer KC, AKC 9091, 292, 316
Boykin Spaniel AKC 223
Bracco Italiano KC, FCI
250, 252
Brandlbracke FCI see Austrian
Black and Tan Hound
Braque dAuvergne FCI see
Auvergne Pointer

Braque de lArige FCI see Ariege


Pointing Dog
Braque du Bourbonnais FCI see
Bourbonnais Pointing Dog
Braque Franais, Type Gascogne
FCI see French Gascony Pointer
Braque Franais, Type Pyrnes FCI
see French Pyrenean Pointer
Braque Saint-Germain FCI see Saint
Germain Pointer
Brazilian Terrier 210
breeding 34647
Briard KC, AKC 55
Briquet Griffon Venden FCI 145
British Royal family
Clumber Spaniel 227
Pembroke Welsh Corgi 59
see also Victoria, Queen
Brittany KC, AKC 234
Broholmer FCI 12, 94
Brownrigg, Lady, Shih Tzu
breeder 272
Bruno Jura Hound FCI 140, 173
see also Laufhund
Brussels Griffon AKC 266, 269
Bucovina Shepherd Dog see
Romanian Shepherd Dogs
Buffon, Count, Spitz as ancestor
of all domestic dogs 116
Bull Boxer 292
Bull Terrier KC, FCI, AKC 21, 23,
62, 185, 197, 199
Bulldog KC, FCI, AKC 11, 87, 90,
94, 95, 197, 215, 267
Bullmastiff KC, FCI, AKC
39, 94

Ca de Bou see Mallorca Mastiff


Cairn Terrier KC, FCI, AKC
185, 188, 189, 192
The Call of the Wild (London) 21
Campbell, Donald, Labradoodle
291
Canaan Dog KC, FCI, AKC 30, 32
Canadian Eskimo Dog KC 105
Canarian Warren Hound 33
Cane Corso AKC 89
Cane Corso Italiano FCI see
Cane Corso
Cane de Pastore Bergamasco
FCI see Bergamasco
Cane de Pastore MaremmanoAbruzzese FCI see Maremma
Sheepdog
Caniche FCI see Corded Poodle;
Poodle
Co da Serra da Estrela FCI see
Estrela Mountain Dog
Co da Serra de Aires FCI see
Portuguese Sheepdog

Co de Agua Portugus FCI see


Portuguese Water Dog
Co de Castro Laboreiro FCI see
Castro Laboreiro Dog
Co Fila de So Miguel FCI see St
Miguel Cattle Dog
car travel and trafc 30809, 345
Cardigan Welsh Corgi KC,
AKC 39, 59, 60
cardiovascular system 1415
Carolina Dog 29, 35
Carpatin Shepherd Dog see
Romanian Shepherd Dogs
Castro Laboreiro Dog 49
Catahoula Leopard Dog 157
Catalan Sheepdog KC 50
Caucasian Shepherd Dog 75
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel KC,
FCI, AKC 278, 279
Celtic Hound 150
Central Asian Shepherd Dog 75
Cerberus, keeper of the entrance to
Hades 20
Cesar dog food, West Highland
White Terrier 188
Ceskoslovensk Vicak FCI see
Czechoslovakian Wolfdog
Cesky Fousek FCI 249
Cesk Terir FCI see Cesky Terrier
Cesky Terrier KC, AKC 18687
Charlotte, Queen, spitz dogs 118
Chart Polski FCI see Polish
Greyhound
Cheese Dog see Bernese
Mountain Dog
Chesapeake Bay Retriever KC,
FCI, AKC 263
Chessie see Chesapeake Bay
Retriever
Chien dArtois FCI see Artois
Hound
Chien de Berger Belge FCI see
Groenendael; Laekenois;
Malinois; Tervueren
Chien de Berger des Pyrnes Face
Rase FCI see Pyrenean Sheepdog
Chien de Berger des Pyrnes Poil
Long FCI see Pyrenean Sheepdog
Chien de Montagne des Pyrnes
FCI see Great Pyrenees
Chien de St. Hubert FCI see
Bloodhound
Chihuahua KC, AKC 11, 23, 264,
275, 282
Chihuahueo FCI see Chihuahua
Chin FCI see Japanese Chin
China, ancient 20, 24, 84
Chinese Crested KC 19, 265, 28081
Chinook 105
choking and poisoning 344
Chow Chow KC, FCI, AKC 19, 99,
11213, 115

Churchill, Winston, bulldog


spirit 95
Cimarrn Uruguayo FCI* see
Uruguayan Cimarron
Ciobanesc Romanesc Carpatin FCI*
see Romanian Shepherd Dog
Ciobanesc Romanesc de Bucovina
FCI* see Romanian Shepherd Dog
Ciobanesc Romanesc Mioritic FCI*
see Romanian Shepherd Dog
Cirneco dellEtna KC, FCI 33
Classical ages 22, 24, 92, 97
cloned dog, rst, Snuppy the Afghan
Hound 136
Clumber Spaniel KC, FCI, AKC 227
coat types and colors 1819
Coban Kpegi FCI see Anatolian
Shepherd Dog
Cocker Spaniel AKC 19, 222, 245,
290
Cockerpoo 290
Collie AKC 21, 5253, 54, 337
Collie Rough FCI see Rough Collie
Collie Smooth FCI see Smooth
Collie
companion dogs 26465
American Bulldog 267
Bichon Frise KC, AKC 271,
274, 292
Bolognese KC, FCI 274
Brussels Griffon AKC 266, 269
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel KC,
FCI, AKC 278, 279
Chihuahua KC, AKC 11, 23,
264, 275, 282
Chinese Crested KC 19, 265,
28081
Coton de Tulear KC, FCI 271
Dalmatian KC, AKC 19, 21, 62,
265, 28687, 316
Danish-Swedish Farmdog 284
English Toy Spaniel AKC
9, 265, 278, 279
French Bulldog KC, AKC 267
Havanese KC, AKC 274
Himalayan Sheepdog 285
Japanese Chin KC, AKC 284
Kyi Leo 278
Lhasa Apso KC, FCI, AKC
271, 272, 278
Lwchen KC, AKC 274
Maltese KC, FCI, AKC 274
North American Shepherd 284
Olde English Bulldogge 267
Pekingese KC, FCI, AKC 265,
269, 270, 272
Poodle KC, AKC 19, 271,
27677, 291, 294
Pug KC, FCI, AKC 12, 2223,
26566, 26869, 272, 279,
297, 316
Russian Toy 275

351

INDE X

Shih Tzu KC, FCI, AKC 269,


27273
Thai Ridgeback FCI 285
Tibetan Spaniel KC, FCI,
AKC 283
Tibetan Terrier KC, FCI, AKC
272, 283
Conron, Wally, Labradoodle
breeder 291
Continental Toy Spaniel see Papillon
Corded Poodle 230
Coton de Tulear KC, FCI 271
Courlander Hound 155
coursing 24
Crnogorski Planinski Gonic FCI see
Montenegrin Mountain Hound
Croatian Shepherd Dog 48
crossbreeds 28889
Bichon Yorkie 292
Bull Boxer 292
Cockerpoo 290
Goldendoodle 288, 294
Labradinger 295
Labradoodle 289, 291
Lucas Terrier 289, 293
Lurcher 289, 290
Cugat, Xavier, Chihuahua 282
Curly Coated Retriever KC, FCI,
AKC 229, 262, 263
Cursinu 69
Czech Terrier see Cesky Terrier
Czechoslovakian Wolfdog 40

Dachshund KC, FCI, AKC 23,


139, 17071
Dali, Salvador, Metamorphosis
of Narcissis 23
Dalmatian KC, AKC 19, 21, 62,
265, 28687, 316
Dalmatinski Pas FCI see Dalmatian
Dandie Dinmont Terrier KC, FCI,
AKC 192, 217
Danish-Swedish Farmdog 284
Dansk-Svensk Grdshund FCI* see
Danish-Swedish Farmdog
Deerhound KC, FCI see Scottish
Deerhound
destructive behavior 330
Deutsch Drahthaar FCI see
German Pointer
Deutsch Kurzhaar FCI see
German Pointer
Deutsch Langhaar FCI see German
Pointer
Deutsche Bracke FCI see
German Hound
Deutsche Dogge FCI see Great Dane
Deutscher Boxer FCI see Boxer
Deutscher Jagtterrier FCI see
German Hunting Terrier

352

Deutscher Pinscher FCI see


German Pinscher
Deutscher Schferhund FCI see
German Shepherd Dog
Deutscher Spitz FCI see
German Spitz
Deutscher Wachtelhund FCI
see German Spaniel
Diana (Artemis), dog sculptures 22
Dickin Medal, Treo (Labradinger)
sniffer dog 295
diet see feeding and diet
digestive system 15
Disney cartoon dogs 21
Do-Khyi FCI see Tibetan Mastiff
Doberman Pinscher AFC 17677,
305
Dobermann KC, FCI see
Dobermann Pinscher
Dogo Argentino FCI 87
Dogo Canario FCI 87
dogs
evolution of 89, 116
modern breeds, development of 9
ownership considerations 30405
territory marking 16
dogs, anatomy
brain 13
cardiovascular system 1415
claws and gait 1011
coat types and colors 1819
digestive system 15
hearing and ears 12, 13
hormonal system 17
muscle power 11, 93
neutering 17, 333
reproductive system 17
respiratory system 1415
senses 1213
sight 12, 13
skelton 1011
skin structure 18
skull shapes 11
smell, sense of 13
taste, sense of 13
teeth 15, 321, 333
urinary system 16
dogsled racing (Siberian
Husky) 101
Dogue De Bordeaux KC, FCI,
AKC 39, 89
draft animals 25, 73, 74,
10001, 103, 106
Drentsche Partridge Dog 239
Drentse Patrijshond FCI see
Drentsche Partridge Dog
Drever FCI 172
Drotzr Magyar Vizsla FCI see
Hungarian Vizsla
Duke, Alfred, Soft-coated
Wheaten Terrier painting 205
Dulux ad (Old English Sheepdog) 56

Duncan, Lee (Rin Tin Tin trainer) 43


Dunker FCI see Norwegian Hound
Drer, Albrecht, Poodle
engravings 277
Dutch Decoy Spaniel see
Kooikerhondje
Dutch Schapendoes 57
Dutch Shepherd Dog 44
Dutch Smoushond 206
Dutch Spaniel see Frisian Water Dog

Earl Ray, James, tracked by


Bloodhounds 141
ears 12, 13
cleaning 321
East Siberian Laika 108
Emms, John, Jack Russell 194
English Cocker Spaniel KC, FCI,
AKC 221, 222, 223, 226, 290
English Coonhound see Bluetick
Coonhound
English Foxhound KC, FCI, AKC
22, 13839, 145, 152, 15455, 158,
159, 167, 169, 255
English Pointer KC, FCI see Pointer
English Setter KC, FCI, AKC 19,
234, 241, 243
English Springer Spaniel KC, FCI,
AKC 222, 22425, 226, 241, 295
English Toy Spaniel AKC 9, 265,
278, 279
English Toy Terrier KC, FCI 12,
211, 212, 275
Entlebucher Mountain Dog KC 71
Epagneul Breton FCI see Brittany
Epagneul de Pont-Audemer FCI see
Pont-Audemer Spaniel
Epagneul Franais FCI see
French Spaniel
Epagneul Nain Continental
FCI see Papillon
Epagneul Picard FCI see
Picardy Spaniel
Erdelyi Kop FCI see
Transylvanian Hound
Estrela Mountain Dog KC 49
Eurasier KC, FCI 115
European royal courts, Bracco
Italiano 252
evolution of dogs 89, 116
eye problems 33637

fairy saddle (Pembroke Welsh Corgi)


59
Famous Five (Blyton) (Timmy) 21
fashion industry 23
feeding and diet
convalescent and older dogs 312

digestive system 15
feeding utensils 306
food as reward 32425, 328
food safety 306
and lifestyle changes 312
monitoring 314
nursing mothers 312
obesity prevention 314
puppies 306, 310, 312
puppy 310, 312
teeth 15, 321
treats and chews 310
working dogs 312
Field Spaniel KC, FCI, AKC 223
ghting dogs 24, 84, 90, 92, 215
Fila Brasileiro FCI 87
lm, dogs in 56, 92, 97, 101, 132
The Artist 21
As Good As It Gets, Brussels
Griffon 266
Big Red (Irish Setter) 21, 243
Funny Face (Yorkshire Terrier)
190
Gosford Park (Brussels Griffon)
266
The Hundred and One
Dalmatians 286
The Incredible Journey 21
Lassie Come Home 21, 52
Legally Blonde 2 (Chihuahua)
282
London Olympics, James Bond
lm sequence 59
Marley and Me (lm) 21
Mr. Fix It 21
Old Yeller 21
Rin Tin Tin (lm star) 43
Turner and Hooch 21
Water for Elephants 21
Finnish Hound 156
Finnish Lapphund KC, AKC 109
Finnish Spitz KC, AKC 108
tting 345
Fitzgerald, F. Scott, The Beautiful
and Damned (Borzoi) 132
Flat Coated Retriever KC, FCI,
AKC 259, 262, 263
Formosan Mountain Dog see
Taiwan Dog
Fox Terrier KC, AKC 21, 185, 194,
204, 20809, 210, 216
Fox Terrier (Smooth) FCI see Fox
Terrier
Fox Terrier (Wire) FCI see Fox
Terrier
Franais Blanc et Noir FCI see
French White and Black Hound
Franais Blanc et Orange FCI see
French White and Orange Hound
Franais Tricolore FCI see French
Tricolor Hound
Frederick the Great of Prussia,

INDE X

Italian Greyhound 127


French Bulldog KC, AKC 267
French Court, lapdogs (Papillon)
122, 123
French Gascony Pointer 258
French Pyrenean Pointer 256
French Spaniel 239, 240
French Tricolor Hound 167
French Water Dog 229, 271
French White and Black
Hound 168
French White and Orange
Hound 169
Freud, Clement, Henry the
Bloodhound television
commercial 23
Freud, Lucien, Girl with a White
Dog 23
Freud, Sigmund, Jo-Fi the Chow
Chow as therapy dog 1113
Friaar Dog see Icelandic Sheepdog
Frisian Pointing Dog 239
Frisian Water Dog 230
Fu dog statues, China 20
Funny Face (lm), Yorkshire
Terrier 190

Gainsborough, Thomas, The


Morning Walk (Pomeranian) 118
Galgo Espagol FCI see Spanish
Greyhound
Gammel Dansk Hnsehund FCI see
Old Danish Pointer
Gandolni, James, Puggle 297
Gascon-Saintongeois FCI 162,
163, 167
Gelert the Irish Wolfhound in Welsh
legend 135
German Hound 169, 172
German Hunting Terrier 204
German Pinscher KC, AKC 176,
217, 218
German Pointer KC, AKC 11, 220,
221, 235, 245, 249
German Shepherd Dog KC,
AKC 9, 38, 40, 4243, 61,
109, 176
German Spaniel 223
German Spitz KC 116
German Wolfspitz 115, 117
Giant Schnauzer KC, AKC 46, 200
Glen of Imaal Terrier KC, AKC 193
Golden Retriever KC, FCI, AKC
259, 294
Goldendoodle 288, 294
good luck symbols, Japan
(Akita) 111
Gordon Setter KC, FCI, AKC
240, 243
Gos dAtura Catal FCI see

Catalan Sheepdog
Gosford Park (lm), Brussels
Griffon 266
Goya, Francisco, Pug
paintings 269
Graham, George A., Irish
Wolfhound breeder 135
Grand Anglo-Franais Blanc et Noir
FCI see Great Anglo-French
White and Black Hound
Grand Anglo-Franais Blanc et
Orange FCI see Great AngloFrench White and Orange Hound
Grand Anglo-Franais Tricolore
FCI see Great Anglo-French
Tricolor Hound
Grand Basset Griffon Venden
KC, FCI 148
Grand Bleu de Gascogne KC,
FCI 162, 163, 16465
Grand Griffon Venden FCI
144, 145, 216
Great Anglo-French Tricolor Hound
167
Great Anglo-French White and
Black Hound 167
Great Anglo-French White and
Orange Hound 169
Great Dane KC, AKC 11, 46, 90,
94, 9697, 135, 183
Greater Swiss Mountain Dog
KC, AKC 74
Greek Sheepdog see Hellenic
Shepherd Dog
Greenland Dog KC 19, 24, 99,
100, 105
Greuze, Jean Baptiste, Madame de
Porcin (Papillon) 123
Greyhound KC, FCI, AKC 11, 12,
93, 97, 12425, 126, 128, 13032,
176, 255, 305
griffon, derivation of name 144
Griffon Belge FCI see Brussels
Griffon
Griffon Bleu de Gascogne FCI see
Blue Gascony Griffon
Griffon Bruxellois KC see Brussels
Griffon
Griffon dArrt Poil dur Korthals
FCI see Wirehaired Pointing
Griffon
Griffon Fauve de Bretagne FCI 144,
149
Griffon Nivernais FCI 145
Groenendael KC see Belgian
Sheepdog
Grnlandshund FCI see Greenland
Dog
grooming 306, 31819
health checks 32021
nail trimming 321
washing 319

Grosser Mnsterlnder Vorstehhund


FCI see Large Munsterlander
Grosser Schweizer Sennenhund FCI
see Greater Swiss Mountain Dog
Guam, War Dog Cemetery,
Dobermann statue 176
guide dogs 25, 259, 260
Guinness World Record
longest-living dog (Australian
Cattle Dog) 63
tallest dog (Great Dane) 97
see also world record
gundogs 22021
American Water Spaniel KC, FCI,
AKC 229
Ariege Pointing Dog 257
Auvergne Pointer 257
Blue Picardy Spaniel 239
Bourbonnais Pointing Dog 257
Boykin Spaniel AKC 223
Bracco Italiano KC, FCI 250, 252
Brittany KC, AKC 234
Cesky Fousek FCI 249
Chesapeake Bay Retriever KC,
FCI, AKC 263
Clumber Spaniel KC, FCI,
AKC 227
Cocker Spaniel AKC 19, 222, 290
Corded Poodle 230
Curly Coated Retriever KC, FCI,
AKC 229, 262
Drentsche Partridge Dog 239
English Cocker Spaniel KC, FCI,
AKC 221, 222, 223, 226, 290
English Setter KC, FCI, AKC 19,
234, 241, 243
English Springer Spaniel KC,
FCI, AKC 222, 22425, 226,
241, 295
Field Spaniel KC, FCI, AKC 223
Flat Coated Retriever KC, FCI,
AKC 259, 262
French Gascony Pointer 258
French Pyrenean Pointer 256
French Spaniel 239, 240
French Water Dog 229, 271
German Pointer KC, AKC 11,
220, 221, 235, 245, 249
German Spaniel 223
Golden Retriever KC, FCI, AKC
259, 294
Gordon Setter KC, FCI, AKC
240, 243
Irish Red and White Setter KC,
FCI, AKC 240, 243
Irish Setter KC, AKC 240,
24243, 244, 259
Irish Water Spaniel KC, FCI, AKC
228, 229, 236, 243
Kooikerhondje KC 238, 244
Labrador Retriever KC,
FCI, AKC 21, 23, 26061,

291, 295
Lagotto Romagnolo KC, FCI 231
Large Munsterlander KC 235
Nova Scotia Duck German
Pointer Tolling Retriever KC, FCI,
AKC 244
Old Danish Pointer 258
Picardy Spaniel 239
Pointer AKC 221, 245, 25455
Pont-Audemer Spaniel 23637
Poodle AKC 19, 229, 230, 265,
277, 294
Portuguese Pointing Dog 249
Portuguese Water Dog KC,
AKC 228
Pudelpointer FCI 253
Saint Germain Pointer 256
Slovakian Rough-haired Pointer
KC 253
Small Munsterlander 235, 239
Spanish Pointer 241, 258
Spanish Water Dog KC 23233
Spinone Italiano AKC 25051
Sussex Spaniel KC, FCI, AKC
223, 226
Vizsla AKC 221, 24647
Weimaraner KC, FCI, AKC 176,
221, 248
Welsh Springer Spaniel KC, FCI,
AKC 226, 234
Wirehaired Pointing Griffon AKC
249
Gyllenhaal, Jake, Puggle 297
Gypsy Rose Lee, Chinese Crested
breeder 281
Gytrash, spirit-hound of northern
England 20

Habanero see Havanese


Hachi-ko statue, Shibuya Station,
Tokyo 111
hairless dogs
American Hairless Terrier 212
Chinese Crested KC 28081
as hot water bottles 25, 37
Mexican Hairless KC 37
Peruvian Hairless 36
Peruvian Inca Orchid 35
Halden Hound 155
Haldenstvare FCI see Halden
Hound
Hall, Thomas, (Halls heeler) 62
Hamiltonstvare KC, FCI 155
hand signals 32425
Hannoverscher Schweisshund FCI
see Hanoverian Scenthound
Hanovarian Haidbrake see
Hamiltonstvare
Hanoverian Scent Hound 150
Hanoverian Scenthound 175

353

INDE X

Happa Dog 269, 270


Harrier FCI, AKC 139,
152, 154
Harry Potter and the Half-Blood
Prince (Fang the Neapolitan
Mastiff) 92
Havanese KC, AKC 274
health care
aortic stenosis 336
bandaging 342, 343
bites and stings 34445
blood clotting disorders 336
breeding 34647
burns 343
choking and poisoning 344
ear cleaning 321
eye problems 33637
rst aid 34245
tting 345
health problems, recognizing 335
healthy signs 334
heat stroke and hypothermia
1415, 345
hip and elbow dysplasia
336, 337
illness and nursing 340
inherited disorders 33637
medication, prescribed 340
neutering 17, 333
parasites 33839
pregnancy and postnatal care
34647
puppies, homing 347
puppy care, early 347
puppy health checks 33233
resuscitation 343
screening 337
surgery, care following 340
teeth 15, 321, 333
thirst, abnormal 335
vaccinations 332
veterinary visits 33233, 335
whelping 346
worms 339
wounds 342
hearing see ears
heat stroke and hypothermia
1415, 345
Heidewachtel see Small
Munsterlander
Heim, Albert, Bernese Mountain
Dog breeder 73
Hellenic Hound 181
Hellenic Shepherd Dog 69
Helliniikos Ichnilatis FCI see
Hellenic Hound
Henry the Bloodhound television
commercial 23
Henry V (Shakespeare)
(Mastiff) 93
Hepburn, Audrey, Yorkshire Terrier
(Mr. Famous) 190

354

Himalayan Sheepdog 285


Hindus, religious signicance
of dogs 20
HMV (His Masters Voice),
Nipper 23
Hockney, David, Dachshund 170
Hogarth, William, Pug paintings
22, 23, 269
Hokkaido Dog 110
Hokkado FCI see Hokkado Dog
Hollandse Herdershond FCI see
Dutch Shepherd Dog
Hollandse Smoushond FCI see
Dutch Smoushond
Holstein Hound see
Hamiltonstvare
home care
arrival preparation 306
bedding 306, 307
children and play 317
dog-proof home 30607
family introductions 307
safety checks 305
toys 306
Horak, Frantisek, Cesky Terrier
breeder 186
The Hound of the Baskervilles
(Conan Doyle) 20
housebreaking 307, 347
Hovawart KC, FCI 82
Hrvatski Ovcar FCI see Croatian
Shepherd Dog
Hublot du Rivault, Gaston and
Anthony (Billy breeders) 166
The Hundred and One Dalmatians
(lm) 286
Hungarian Greyhound 130
Hungarian Hound see
Transylvanian Hound
Hungarian Kuvasz KC see Kuvasz
Hungarian Puli KC see Puli
Hungarian Short-haired Pointer see
Hungarian Vizsla
Hungarian Vizsla KC see Vizsla
hunt, point, retrieve (HPR)
breeds 245
hunting with dogs for
pleasure 24
Hush Puppies shoes, Basset
Hound 146
Hygen Hound 156
Hygenhund FCI see Hygen Hound
hypoallergenic dog,
Goldendoodle 294

Ibizan Hound KC, AKC 24, 29, 33


Icelandic Sheepdog AKC 120
Illyrian Hound see Bosnian
Rough-coated Hound
Illyrian Shepherd see Karst

Shepherd Dog
Illyrian Shepherd Dog see
Sarplaninac
The Incredible Journey (lm)
(Luath and Bodger) 21
intelligence levels, German
Spitz 116
Inuit Dog see Canadian
Eskimo Dog
Ioujnorousskaa Ovtcharka FCI see
South Russian Shepherd Dog
Irish Glen of Imaal Terrier FCI see
Glen of Imaal Terrier
Irish Red Setter FCI see Irish Setter
Irish Red and White Setter KC,
FCI, AKC 240, 243
Irish Setter KC, AKC 240,
24243, 244, 259
Irish Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier
FCI see Soft-coated Wheaten
Terrier
Irish Terrier KC, FCI, AKC 185,
199, 200, 205
Irish Water Spaniel KC, FCI, AKC
228, 229, 236, 243
Irish Wolfhound KC, FCI, AKC 97,
133, 13435
Islenkur Fjrhundur FCI see
Icelandic Sheepdog
Istarski Kratkodlaki Gonic FCI see
Istrian Smooth-coated Hound
Istarski Otrodlaki Gonic FCI see
Istrian Wire-haired Hound
Istrian Shepherd Dog see Karst
Shepherd Dog
Istrian Smooth-coated Hound
149, 150
Istrian Wire-haired Hound 149, 150
Italian Corso Dog see Cane Corso
Italian Greyhound KC, AKC 127
Italian Pointer see Bracco Italiano
Italian Spinone KC see Spinone
Italiano
Italian Volpino 115

J
Jack Russell Terrier FCI 21,
184, 185, 194, 196, 210
Jagdterrier see German
Hunting Terrier
Jmthund FCI see Swedish
Elkhound
Jane Eyre (Bronte) (Gytrash,
the spirit-hound) 20
Japanese Akita Inu see Akita
Japanese Chin KC, AKC 284
Japanese Shiba Inu KC, AKC 114
Japanese Spitz KC 115
Japanese Terrier 210
Jock of the Bushveld (FitzPatrick)
(Staffordshire Bull Terrier) 215

John Bull (Bulldog) 95


Johnson, John D., American
Bulldog breeder 267
Jugoslovenski Ovcarski Pas Sarplaninic FCI see Sarplaninac
jumping up, problem with 33031
Jura Niederlaufhund 174

Kai FCI 114


Kangal Dog 74
Karelian Bear Dog 105
Karjalankarhukoira FCI see
Karelian Bear Dog
Karst Shepherd Dog 49
Kavkazskaa Ovtcharka FCI see
Caucasian Shepherd Dog
Keeshond KC, FCI, AKC 117
Keller, Helen, and Akita 111
Kerry Blue Terrier KC, FCI,
AKC 201, 205
King Charles Spaniel KC, FCI
9, 265, 278, 279
King Shepherd 40
Kishu FCI 115
Klondike Gold Rush, Alaskan
Malamute 103
Komondor KC, FCI, AKC 19,
6667
Kooikerhondje KC 238, 244
Korea Jindo Dog FCI see Korea
Jindo
Korean Jindo KC 114
Korthals Griffon KC see
Wirehaired Pointing Griffon
Kraski Ovcar FCI see Karst
Shepherd Dog
Kromfohrlnder FCI 216
Kuvasz FCI, AKC 82
Kyi Leo 278

Labradinger 295
Labradoodle 289, 291
Labrador Retriever KC,
FCI, AKC 21, 23, 26061,
291, 295
Laekenois KC 41
Lagotto Romagnolo KC,
FCI 231
Lakeland Terrier KC, FCI, AKC
185, 206
Lancashire Heeler KC 64
Landseer FCI 79
Landseer, Sir Edwin 23, 79
Lapinporokoira see Lapponian
Herder
Lapponian Herder 109
Large Munsterlander KC 235
Lassie Come Home (lm),

INDE X

Collie 21, 52
Laufhund 173, 174
see also Bruno Jura Hound
Laverack, Edward, English Setter
breeder 241
lead training 316, 32627
Legally Blonde 2 (lm),
Chihuahua 282
legends 20, 135
Leonberger KC, FCI, AKC 75
Lhasa Apso KC, FCI, AKC
271, 272, 278
literature, dogs in 2021, 93,
132, 142, 152, 215
Little Lion Dog see Lwchen
Llewellin, R. Purcell, English
Setter breeder 241
London Olympics, Pembroke
Welsh Corgi in James Bond
lm sequence 59
longest-living dog (Australian
Cattle Dog), Guinness World
Record 63
Lwchen KC, AKC 274
Lucas Terrier 289, 293
Lucerne Laufhund see Laufhund
Lucerne Niederlaufhund 174
Lurcher 289, 290

Magyar Agar FCI see Hungarian


Greyhound
Majorca Shepherd Dog 86
Malcolm, Edward,
West Highland White
Terrier breeder 188
Malinois KC see Belgian Malinois
Mallorca Mastiff 86
Maltese KC, FCI, AKC 274
Manchester Terrier KC, FCI, AKC
64, 176, 211, 212
mans best friend, dog as 158
Mantegna, Andrea, The Court
of Gonzaga mural (Spinone
Italiano) 250
Maremma Sheepdog KC 39, 69
Marie Antoinette, Papillon
122, 123
Marie Henriette of Belgium,
Queen, Brussels Griffon 266
Marley and Me (lm) 21
Marx Brothers, Zeppo and
Afghan Hound 136
Mastiff KC, FCI, AKC 21, 24,
87, 93, 94, 95, 183
Mastn del Pirineo FCI see
Pyrenean Mastiff
Mastn Espagnol FCI see
Spanish Mastiff
Mastino Napoletano FCI see
Neapolitan Mastiff

Mayan burial sites 20


Mexican Hairless KC see
Xoloitzcuintli
Mick the Miller (Greyhound) 126
Miniature Black and Tan Terrier see
English Toy Terrier
Miniature Bull Terrier KC, FCI,
AKC 197
Miniature Pinscher KC, AKC
217, 219
Miniature Schnauzer KC,
AKC 219
Mioritic Shepherd Dog see
Romanian Shepherd Dogs
Miro, Joan, Dog Barking at the
Moon 23
Modder Rhu see Irish Setter
Molossus dogs 70, 81, 92
Monkey Dog see Portuguese
Sheepdog
Montenegrin Mountain Hound
179, 180
Mountain Cur 181
Mr. Fix It (lm) 21
Mudi FCI 45
muscle power 11, 93
Muybridge, Eadweard, animal
locomotion studies 93
myths and legends 20

Neapolitan Mastiff KC, AKC


39, 92
Nederlandse Kooikerhondje
FCI see Kooikerhondje
Nederlandse Schapendoes FCI see
Dutch Schapendoes
neutering 17, 333
New Guinea Singing Dog 29, 32
New York, Central Park, Balto
statue, US diphtheria epidemic
(Siberian Husky) 101
New Zealand Huntaway 61
Newfoundland KC, FCI, AKC
21, 23, 75, 76, 79
Niederlaufhund 174
Nihon Supittsu FCI see
Japanese Spitz
Nihon Teria FCI see
Japanese Terrier
Nippon (Nihon) Terrier see
Japanese Terrier
nomads, Siberian, Samoyed 106
Norbottenspets FCI see
Nordic Spitz
Nordic Spitz 121
Norfolk Spaniel see English
Springer Spaniel
Norfolk Terrier KC, FCI, AKC
185, 192, 193, 293
Norsk Buhund FCI see

Norwegian Buhund
Norsk Elghund Gra FCI see
Norwegian Elkhound
Norsk Elghund Sort FCI see Black
Norwegian Elkhound
Norsk Lundehund FCI see
Norwegian Lundehund
North American Shepherd 284
Norwegian Buhund KC,
AKC 121
Norwegian Elkhound KC,
AKC 11011
Norwegian Hound 156
Norwegian Lundehund AKC 120
Norwegian Pufn Dog see
Norwegian Lundehund
Norwich Terrier KC, FCI, AKC 193
Nova Scotia Duck German
Pointer Tolling Retriever KC,
FCI, AKC 244

obesity prevention 314


Odysseus, hunting dog,
Argos 20
Ogar Polski FCI see Polish Hound
Old Danish Pointer 258
Old English Sheepdog KC, FCI,
AKC 56, 283
Old Hemp (sheepdog) 51
Old Shep statue, Benton,
Montana 51
Old Yeller (lm) 21
Olde English Bulldogge 267
sterreichischer Pinscher FCI see
Austrian Pinscher
Otterhound KC, FCI, AKC 1
39, 14243, 199
Ovtcharka see South Russian
Shepherd Dog
ownership considerations 30405

paintings see art, dogs in


Papillon KC, AKC 12223
Papinporokoira FCI see
Lapponian Herder
parasites 33839
Paris dog cemetery, Bany
(St. Bernard) 76
Parson Russell Terrier KC,
FCI, AKC 19495, 196
Patrijshond see Drentsche Partridge
Dog
Patterdale Terrier 213
Peanuts, Snoopy (cartoon dog)
(Beagle) 152
Peary, Robert, polar expedition
(Greenland Dog) 100
Peintingen Hound see Styrian

Coarse-haired Mountain Hound


Pekingese KC, FCI, AKC 265, 269,
270, 272
Pembroke Welsh Corgi KC,
AKC 5859, 64
Perdigueiro Portugus FCI see
Portuguese Pointing Dog
Perdiguero de Burgos FCI see
Spanish Pointer
Perez, Antonio, Spanish Water
Dog breeder 232
Perro de Agua Espaol FCI see
Spanish Water Dog
Perro Dogo Mallorqun FCI see
Mallorca Mastiff
Perro sin Pelo del Per FCI see
Peruvian Hairless
Peruvian Hairless 28, 36
Peruvian Inca Orchid 35
pet sitters 309
Peter Pan (Nana) 21
Petit Anglo-Franais see AngloFranais de Petite Vnerie
Petit Basset Griffon Venden
KC, FCI, AKC 148
Petit Bleu de Gascogne FCI 163
Petit Brabanon FCI see Brussels
Griffon
Phalne see Papillon
phantom dogs, and supernatural 20
Pharaoh Hound KC, FCI, AKC 24,
29, 32
Picardy Sheepdog 44
Picardy Spaniel 236, 239
Picasso, Pablo, Dachshund 23, 170
Piccolo Levriero Italiano FCI see
Italian Greyhound
The Pickwick Papers (Dickens),
Pointer 255
pit ghting 24
Plott 157
Podenco Canario FCI see
Canarian Warren Hound
Podenco Ibecenco FCI see
Ibizan Hound
Podengo Portugus FCI see
Portuguese Podengo
Pointer AKC 183, 221, 245, 25455
Poitevin FCI 166
polar expeditions 100, 106
Polish Greyhound 130
Polish Hound 178
Polish Lowland Sheepdog KC,
AKC 57
Polski Owczarek Nizinny FCI see
Polish Lowland Sheepdog
Polski Owczarek Podhalanski FCI
see Tatra Shepherd Dog
Pomeranian KC, AKC 99,
11819
Pompadour, Madame de,
Papillon 122

355

INDE X

Pont-Audemer Spaniel 23637


Poodle AKC 19, 229, 230, 265,
277, 294
Poodle KC, AKC 19, 219, 271,
27677, 291, 294
Porcelaine FCI 154
Portuguese Cattle Dog see
Castro Laboreiro Dog
Portuguese Podengo KC 34
Portuguese Pointing Dog 249
Portuguese Sheepdog 50
Portuguese Warren Hound see
Portuguese Podengo
Portuguese Watchdog 49
Portuguese Water Dog KC,
AKC 228
Posavaz Hound 178
Posavski Gonic FCI see
Posavaz Hound
postage stamps
Czechoslovakia (Cesky
Terrier) 186
Germany (Giant Schnauzer) 46
Powderpuff see Chinese Crested
pregnancy and postnatal
care 34647
primitive dogs 2829
Basenji KC, FCI, AKC 17,
29, 3031
Canarian Warren Hound 33
Carolina Dog 29, 35
Cirneco dellEtna KC, FCI 33
Ibizan Hound KC, AKC
24, 29, 33
New Guinea Singing Dog 29, 32
Peruvian Hairless 28, 36
Peruvian Inca Orchid 35
Pharaoh Hound KC, FCI, AKC
24, 29, 32
Portuguese Podengo KC 34
Xoloitzcuintli AKC 19, 37
Pudelpointer FCI 253
Pug KC, FCI, AKC 12, 2223,
116, 26566, 26869, 272,
279, 297, 316
Puggle 29697
Puli FCI, AKC 19, 65
Pumi FCI 65
puppies
arrival preparations 30607
basket 306, 307
breeding 34647
chewing problem 330
chews and teething 310
and children 317
collar 306
early care 347
feeding and diet 306, 310, 312
health checks 33233
homing 347
housebreaking 307
hypothermia 345

356

jumping up 331
ownership considerations 305
playing 316
and reproductive system 17
socializing 308
toys 306
training see training techniques
vaccinations 332
veterinary health checks 33233
walking and exercise 316
whelping 346
worming 339
Pyrenean Mastiff KC 78
Pyrenean Mountain Dog KC
Pyrenean Sheepdog KC 18, 50
Pyrenean Shepherd AKC see
Pyrenean Sheepdog

racing 24, 101, 126, 128, 130


Rafeiro de Alentejo FCI see
Portuguese Watchdog
Rampur Greyhound 130
random breeds 298301
Rat Terrier 185, 212
rat-baiting, English Toy
Terrier 211
Reagan, Nancy (Bouvier
des Flandres) 47
Redbone Coonhound AKC 160
Reisenschnauzer FCI see Giant
Schnauzer
religion, dogs in 20
Renoir, Pierre-Auguste, The Boating
Party 23
reproductive system 17
rescue centers 305
respiratory system 1415
Rhodesian Ridgeback KC, FCI,
AKC 18283
Rin Tin Tin (movie star) 43
Romanian Shepherd Dogs 70
Roosevelt, Theodore, Rat
Terrier 212
Rothbury Terriers 203
Rottweiler KC, FCI, AKC 61,
83, 155, 176, 200
Rough Collie KC see Collie
Rvidszr Magyar Vizsla FCI see
Vizsla
Royal Dog of Madagascar see
Coton de Tulear
Ruby King Charles Spaniel 266
running off, problem with 331
Russell Terrier AKC see Jack
Russell Terrier
Russian Black Terrier KC see
Russian Black Terrier
Russian Toy 275
Russian Wolfhound see Borzoi
Russian-European Laika 108

Russkaya Psovaya Borzaya FCI see


Borzoi
Russkiy Tchiorny Terrier FCI see
Russian Black Terrier
Russkiy Toy FCI see Russian Toy
Russko-Evropeskaa Laka FCI see
Russian-European Laika

Saarloos Wolfdog 40
Saarlooswolfhond FCI see
Saarloos Wolfdog
Sabueso Espaol FCI see
Spanish Hound
Saint Bernard AKC 9, 75, 7677
St. Bernard KC see Saint Bernard
St. Bernardshund FCI see
St. Bernard
Saint Germain Pointer 256
St. Hubert Hound see
Bloodhound
St. Hubert Jura Hound 140
St. Miguel Cattle Dog 89
Saluki KC, FCI, AKC 11,
125, 131
Samoiedskaa Sabaka FCI see
Samoyed
Samoyed KC, AKC
10607, 115
Sarplaninac 48
Scanziani, Piero (Neapolitan
Mastiff breeder) 92
scent hounds 13839
Alpine Dachsbracke 169
American English
Coonhound AKC 159
American Foxhound FCI,
AKC 157
Anglo-Franais de Petite
Vnerie FCI 154
Arigeois FCI 162, 163
Artois Hound 162
Austrian Black and Tan
Hound 150
Basset Artesien Normand
FCI 149
Basset Bleu de Gascogne KC,
FCI 163
Basset Fauve de Bretagne KC,
FCI 149
Basset Hound KC, FCI,
AKC 14647, 227
Bavarian Mountain Hound
KC 175
Beagle KC, FCI, AKC 139,
15253, 154, 297
Beagle Harrier FCI 154
Billy FCI 166, 167, 169
Black Forest Hound 178
Black and Tan Coonhound
AKC 160

Bloodhound KC, AKC 12,


141, 160
Blue Gascony Griffon 163
Bluetick Coonhound AKC
161, 165
Bosnian Rough-coated
Hound 179
Briquet Griffon Venden
FCI 145
Bruno Jura Hound see
Bruno Jura Hound FCI
Catahoula Leopard Dog 157
Dachshund KC, FCI, AKC 23,
139, 17071
Dobermann Pinscher AKC
17677, 305
Drever FCI 172
English Foxhound KC,
FCI, AKC 22, 13839, 145,
152, 15455, 158, 159, 167,
169, 255
Finnish Hound 156
French Tricolor Hound 167
French White and Black
Hound 168
French White and Orange
Hound 169
Gascon-Saintongeois FCI
162, 163, 167
German Hound 169, 172
Grand Basset Griffon Venden
KC, FCI 148
Grand Bleu de Gascogne KC,
FCI 162, 163, 16465
Grand Griffon Venden FCI
144, 145, 216
Great Anglo-French Tricolor
Hound 167
Great Anglo-French White
and Black Hound 167
Great Anglo-French White
and Orange Hound 169
Griffon Fauve de Bretagne
FCI 144, 149
Griffon Nivernais FCI 145
Halden Hound 155
Hamiltonstvare KC, FCI 155
Hanoverian Scent Hound 150
Harrier FCI, AKC 139,
152, 154
Hellenic Hound 181
Hygen Hound 156
Istrian Smooth-coated
Hound 149, 150
Istrian Wire-haired Hound
149, 150
Laufhund see Laufhund
Montenegrin Mountain Hound
179, 180
Mountain Cur 181
Niederlaufhund 174
Norwegian Hound 156

INDE X

Otterhound KC, FCI, AKC


139, 14243, 199
Petit Basset Griffon Venden KC,
FCI, AKC 148
Petit Bleu de Gascogne FCI 163
Plott 157
Poitevin FCI 166
Polish Hound 178
Porcelaine FCI 154
Posavaz Hound 178
Redbone Coonhound AKC 160
Rhodesian Ridgeback KC, FCI,
AKC 18283
St. Hubert Jura Hound 140
Schillerstvare FCI 155
Segugio Italiano KC, FCI 151
Serbian Hound 180
Serbian Tricolored Hound 180
Smlandsstvare FCI 155, 156
Spanish Hound 150
Styrian Coarse-haired Mountain
Hound 150
Transylvanian Hound 178
Treeing Walker Coonhound 161
Westphalian Dachsbracke 169
Schensi dogs 31
Schillerstvare FCI 155
Schipperke KC, FCI, AKC 117
Schleifenbaum, Ilse,
Kromfohrlnder breeder 216
Schnauzer KC, FCI see Standard
Schnauzer
Schweizer Laufhund FCI see
Laufhund
Schwyzer Laufhund see
Laufhund
Schwyzer Niederlaufhund 174
Scooby Doo (cartoon dog)
(Great Dane) 97
Scott, Alan, American Bulldog
breeder 267
Scottish Deerhound AKC 133, 135
Scottish Terrier KC, FCI, AKC
23, 186, 188, 189
Sealyham Terrier KC, FCI, AKC
186, 189, 293
search and rescue dogs 25, 46,
76, 149, 207
Segugio Italiano KC, FCI 151
Seoul National University, rst
cloned dog (Afghan Hound) 136
Serbian Hound 180
Serbian Mountain Hound see
Montenegrin Mountain Hound
Serbian Tricolored Hound 180
service, dogs in 25
Shar Pei KC, FCI see Chinese Shar
Pei
sheeplike dog (Komondor) 67
Shetland Sheepdog KC, FCI,
AKC 55, 337
Shiba FCI see Japanese Shiba Inu

Shih Tzu KC, FCI, AKC 269,


27273
Shikoku FCI 114
Siberian Husky KC, FCI, AKC 24,
98, 99, 101, 104
Siberian nomads, Samoyed 106
sight 12, 13
sight hounds 12425
Afghan Hound KC, FCI, AKC
24, 125, 136
Azawakh KC, FCI 137
Borzoi KC, AKC 125, 130, 132
coursing 24
Greyhound KC, FCI, AKC
11, 12, 93, 97, 12425, 126,
128, 13032, 176, 255, 305
Hungarian Greyhound 130
Irish Wolfhound KC, FCI, AKC
97, 133, 13435
Italian Greyhound KC, AKC 127
Polish Greyhound 130
racing 24
Rampur Greyhound 130
Saluki KC, FCI, AKC 11, 125, 131
Scottish Deerhound KC, FCI 133,
135
Sloughi KC, FCI 137
Spanish Greyhound 133
Whippet KC, FCI, AKC 23, 125,
12829, 203
Silky Terrier AKC 192
Skye Terrier KC, FCI, AKC 217
Sloughi KC, FCI 137
Slovakian Chuvach 82
Slovakian Rough-haired
Pointer KC 253
Slovensk Cuvac FCI see
Slovakian Chuvach
Slovensk Hrubosrst Stavac (Ohar)
FCI see Slovakian Rough-haired
Pointer
Slovensk Kopov FCI see
Black Forest Hound
Slovensky Pointer see
Slovakian Rough-haired Pointer
Smland Hound see
Smlandsstvare
Smlandsstvare FCI 155, 156
Small Munsterlander 235, 239
smell, sense of 13
Smooth Collie KC 54, 337
sniffer dogs 25, 224, 295
Snoopy (cartoon dog)
(Beagle) 152
Snuppy the Afghan Hound,
rst cloned dog 136
Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier AKC
185, 205
Soft-coated Wheaten Terrier KC
see Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier
South Russian Shepherd Dog
56, 57

Spanish Greyhound 133


Spanish Hound 150
Spanish Mastiff 88
Spanish Pointer 241, 258
Spanish Water Dog KC 23233
speed record, Mick the Miller
(Greyhound) 126
Spinone Italiano FCI, AKC 245,
25051
Spitz nain see Pomeranian
spitz-type dogs 9899
Akita KC, AKC 99, 111
Alaskan Klee Kai 99, 104
Alaskan Malamute KC, FCI,
AKC 12, 10203
American Eskimo Dog AKC
116, 121
Black Norwegian Elkhound 110
Canadian Eskimo Dog KC 105
Chinook 105
Chow Chow KC, FCI, AKC
19, 99, 11213, 115
East Siberian Laika 108
Eurasier KC, FCI 115
Finnish Lapphund KC, AKC 109
Finnish Spitz KC, AKC 108
German Spitz KC 116
German Wolfspitz 115, 117
Greenland Dog KC 19, 24,
99, 100, 105
Hokkaido Dog 110
Icelandic Sheepdog AKC 120
Italian Volpino 115
Japanese Spitz KC 115
Kai FCI 114
Karelian Bear Dog 105
Keeshond KC, FCI, AKC 117
Kishu FCI 115
Korean Jindo KC 114
Lapponian Herder 109
Nordic Spitz 121
Norwegian Buhund KC,
AKC 121
Norwegian Elkhound KC,
AKC 11011
Papillon KC, AKC 12223
Pomeranian KC, AKC
99, 11819
Russian-European Laika 108
Samoyed KC, AKC 10607, 115
Schipperke KC, FCI, AKC 117
Shiba Inu KC, AKC 114
Shikoku FCI 114
Siberian Husky KC, FCI, AKC
24, 98, 99, 101, 104
Swedish Elkhound 109
Swedish Lapphund KC 109
West Siberian Laika 108
sporting dogs 2425
Springador see
Labradinger
Springer Spaniel 221

Spurlin, Linda, Alaskan Klee


Kai breeder 104
Sredneasiatskaa Ovtcharka FCI see
Central Asian Shepherd Dog
Srpski Gonic FCI see
Serbian Hound
Srpski Planinski Gonic FCI see
Montenegrin Mountain Hound
Srpski Trobojni Gonic FCI see
Serbian Tricolored Hound
Stabyhoun FCI see
Frisian Pointing Dog
Staffordshire Bull Terrier KC, FCI,
AKC 185, 21415, 292, 305
Standard Pinscher see German
Pinscher
Standard Poodle KC see Poodle
Standard Schnauzer AKC 45, 46,
219
Steen, Jan, The Way You Hear It...
(Kooikerhondje) 238
Steirische Rauhhaarbracke FCI
see Styrian Coarse-haired
Mountain Hound
Stubbs, George 23
Ringwood, a Brocklesby
Foxhound 22
Styrian Coarse-haired
Mountain Hound 150
Sumerian empire, wall
carvings (Saluki) 131
Suomenajokoira FCI see
Finnish Hound
Suomenlapinkoira FCI see
Finnish Lapphund
Suomenpystykorva FCI see
Finnish Spitz
supernatural, and phantom
dogs 20
Sussex Spaniel KC, FCI, AKC
223, 226
Svensk Lapphund FCI see
Swedish Lapphund
Swedish Elkhound 109
Swedish Foxhound see
Hamiltonstvare
Swedish Lapphund KC 109
Swedish Vallhund KC, AKC 60
Swiss Beagle see Laufhund
Swiss Hound see Laufhund

Taco Bell Tex-Mex food chain ad,


Chihuahua (Gidget) 283
Taiwan Dog FCI* 86
Takamoto, Iwao, Scooby Doo
creator (Great Dane) 97
tallest dog (Great Dane), Guinness
World Record 97
Tarka the Otter, and Otterhound
decline 142

357

INDE X

taste, sense of 13
Tatra Shepherd Dog 78
teeth 15, 321, 333
television commercial, Henry the
Bloodhound 23
Tenerife dog see Bichon Frise
Terrier Brasileiro FCI see
Brazilian Terrier
terriers 18485
Affenpinscher KC, FCI, AKC
218, 266
Airedale Terrier KC, FCI, AKC
185, 19899, 200
American Hairless Terrier 212
American Pit Bull Terrier 185, 213
American Staffordshire Terrier
FCI, AKC 213
Austrian Pinscher 218
Bedlington Terrier KC, FCI,
AKC 20203
Black Russian Terrier AKC
185, 200
Border Terrier KC, FCI,
AKC 207
Boston Terrier KC, FCI,
AKC 196
Brazilian Terrier 210
Bull Terrier KC, FCI, AKC
21, 23, 62, 185, 197, 199
Cairn Terrier KC, FCI, AKC
185, 188, 189, 192
Cesky Terrier KC, AKC 18687
Dandie Dinmont Terrier KC,
FCI, AKC 192, 217
as draft animals 25
Dutch Smoushond 206
English Toy Terrier KC, FCI 12,
211, 212, 275
Fox Terrier KC, AKC 21, 185,
194, 20809, 210, 216
German Hunting Terrier 204
German Pinscher KC, AKC
176, 217, 218
Glen of Imaal Terrier KC,
AKC 193
Irish Terrier KC, FCI, AKC 185,
199, 200, 205
Jack Russell Terrier FCI 21, 184,
185, 194, 196, 210
Japanese Terrier 210
Kerry Blue Terrier KC, FCI, AKC
201, 205
Kromfohrlnder FCI 216
Lakeland Terrier KC, FCI, AKC
185, 206
Manchester Terrier KC, FCI, AKC
64, 176, 211, 212
Miniature Bull Terrier KC,
FCI, AKC 197
Miniature Pinscher KC, AKC 217
Miniature Schnauzer KC,
AKC 219

358

Norfolk Terrier KC, FCI, AKC


185, 192, 193, 293
Norwich Terrier KC, FCI,
AKC 193
Parson Russell Terrier KC, FCI,
AFC 19495, 196
Patterdale Terrier 213
Rat Terrier 185, 212
Scottish Terrier KC, FCI, AKC
23, 186, 189
Sealyham Terrier KC, FCI, AKC
186, 189, 293
Silky Terrier AKC 192
Skye Terrier KC, FCI,
AKC 217
Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier
KC 185, 205
Staffordshire Bull Terrier
KC, FCI, AKC 185,
21415, 292, 305
Toy Fox Terrier AKC 210
Welsh Terrier KC, FCI,
AKC 201
West Highland White Terrier KC,
FCI, AKC 23, 188
Yorkshire Terrier KC, FCI,
AKC 19, 185, 19091, 192,
292, 316
territory marking 16
Tervueren KC see Belgian Tervuren
Thai Ridgeback FCI 285
therapy dogs 113, 207, 259
Thirwell, John, Yogi owner
(Vizsla) 246
Thurman, Uma, Puggle 297
Tibetan Kyi Apso 82
Tibetan Mastiff KC, AKC 11,
8081, 285
Tibetan Spaniel KC, FCI,
AKC 283
Tibetan Terrier KC, FCI,
AKC 272, 283
Tintin (Herg), Snowy the Fox
Terrier 21, 209
Titian
Emperor Charles V portrait 23
Venus of Urbino (Papillon) 122
Tokyo, Hachi-ko statue, Shibuya
Station 111
Toller see Nova Scotia Duck
German Pointer Tolling Retriever
Tosa FCI 94
Toy Fox Terrier AKC 210
trafc, getting used to 308
training techniques 32429
aggressive behavior 328, 331
barking, excessive 330
behavioral problems 33031
car travel 30809, 345
classes 328
come command 328
condence-building 308

destructive behavior 330


down command 325
exercise routines 31617
games and playing 317
good practice 326
hand signals 32425
housebreaking 307, 347
jumping up, problem with 33031
leash training 316, 32627
reward-based 32425, 328
routine, importance of 307
rule setting 322
running off, problem with 331
sit command 324
socialization 30809
starting 307
stay command 325
timing, importance of 324
trafc, getting used to 308
voice and hand commands 322
Transylvanian Hound 178
Treeing Walker Coonhound
AKC 161
Treo (Labradinger) sniffer dog,
Dickin Medal 295
Tudor-Williams, Veronica (Basenji
breeder) 31
Turner and Hooch (lm) 21
The Two Gentlemen of Verona
(Shakespeare) (Crab) 21

UK Best in Show titles record,


Hungarian Vizsla 246
urinary system 16
Uruguayan Cimarron 87
Usher (musician), Goldendoodle 294

vaccinations 332
value, most expensive dog (Tibetan
Mastiff) 81
Van Dyck, Anthony, King Charles
Spaniel painting 279
Vstgtaspets FCI see Swedish
Vallhund
Velez, Lupe, Chihuahua 282
Vertragus (ancient Celtic dog) 126
veterinary visits 33233, 335
Victoria, Queen
Chow Chow 113
Pug ear clipping, banning of 269
small dogs, enthusiasm for
118, 211
see also British Royal family
Virelade Hound see GasconSaintongeois
Virginia Hound see American
English Coonhound
Vizsla AKC 221, 245, 24647

Volpino Italiano FCI see Italian


Volpino
Von Stephanitz, Max (German
Shepherd Dog breeder) 43
Vostotchno-Sibirskaa Laka FCI see
East Siberian Laika

War and Peace (Tolstoy)


(Borzoi) 132
Warhol, Andy, Dachshund 170
wartime 25, 47, 66, 83, 95,
101, 176, 199, 295
Washington, George
American English
Coonhound 159
Grand Bleu de Gascogne 165
Water for Elephants (lm) 21
Waterside Terrier see
Airedale Terrier
Wegman, William, Weimaraner 248
Weimaraner KC, FCI, AKC 176,
221, 245, 248
Welsh Corgi Cardigan FCI see
Cardigan Welsh Corgi
Welsh Corgi Pembroke FCI see
Pembroke Welsh Corgi
Welsh legend, Gelert the Irish
Wolfhound 135
Welsh Springer Spaniel KC, FCI,
AKC 226, 234
Welsh Terrier KC, FCI, AKC
201, 204
West Highland White Terrier KC,
FCI, AKC 23, 188
West Siberian Laika 108
Westflische Dacksbracke FCI see
Westphalian Dachsbracke
Westphalian Dachsbracke 169
Wetterhoun FCI see Frisian
Water Dog
Whippet KC, FCI, AKC 23, 125,
12829, 203
White Fang (London) 21
White Swiss Shepherd Dog 74
wild boar hunts 151, 165,
166, 167
William II of Orange, life saved
by Kooikerhondje 238
Winkler, Henry, Puggle 297
Wire Fox Terrier see Fox Terrier
Wirehaired Pointing Griffon AKC
249
Wirehaired Slovakian Pointer see
Slovakian Rough-haired Pointer
The Wizard of Oz (Toto) 21
wolves 89
working dogs 3839
Aidi FCI 68
Akbash 75
Alapaha Blue Blood Bulldog 88

INDE X

Anatolian Shepherd Dog KC,


AKC 74
Appenzell Cattle Dog 71
Australian Cattle Dog KC, FCI,
AKC 39, 6263
Australian Kelpie FCI 61
Australian Shepherd KC, FCI,
AKC 68, 284, 337
Bearded Collie KC, FCI,
AKC 19, 56, 57
Beauceron KC, AKC 86
Belgian Malinois AKC 41
Belgian Sheepdog AKC 41
Belgian Tervueren AKC 41
Bergamasco KC 64
Bernese Mountain Dog KC,
AKC 7273
Boerboel 88
Border Collie KC, FCI, AKC 39,
51, 61, 337
Bouvier des Ardennes FCI 48
Bouvier des Flandres KC, FCI,
AKC 46, 47
Boxer KC, AKC 9091, 292, 316
Briard KC, AKC 55
Broholmer FCI 12, 94
Bulldog KC, FCI, AKC 11, 87, 90,
94, 95, 197, 215, 267
Bullmastiff KC, FCI, AKC 39, 94
Cane Corso 89
Cardigan Welsh Corgi KC, AKC
39, 59, 60
Castro Laboreiro Dog 49
Catalan Sheepdog KC 50
Caucasian Shepherd Dog 75
Central Asian Shepherd Dog 75
Chinese Shar Pei AKC 8485
Collie AKC 21, 5253, 54, 337
Croatian Shepherd Dog 48
Cursinu 69
Czechoslovakian Wolfdog 40
Dogo Argentino FCI 87
Dogo Canario FCI 87
dogs in service 25
Dogue De Bordeaux KC, FCI,
AKC 39, 89
as draft animals 25
Dutch Schapendoes 57
Dutch Shepherd Dog 44
Entlebucher Mountain Dog
KC 71
Estrela Mountain Dog KC 49
Fila Brasileiro FCI 87
German Shepherd Dog KC, AKC
9, 38, 40, 4243, 61, 109, 176
Giant Schnauzer KC, AKC
46, 200
Great Dane KC, AKC 11, 46,
90, 94, 9697, 135
Great Pyrenees AKC 11, 39, 78
Greater Swiss Mountain Dog
KC, AKC 74

Hellenic Shepherd Dog 69


Hovawart KC, FCI 82
Kangal Dog 74
Karst Shepherd Dog 49
King Shepherd 40
Komondor KC, FCI, AKC 19,
6667
Kuvasz AKC 82
Laekenois KC 41
Lancashire Heeler KC 64
Landseer FCI 79
Leonberger KC, FCI, AKC 75
Majorca Shepherd Dog 86
Mallorca Mastiff 86
Maremma Sheepdog KC 39, 69
Mastiff KC, FCI, AKC 21,
87, 93, 94, 95
Mudi FCI 45
Neapolitan Mastiff KC, AKC
39, 92
New Zealand Huntaway 61
Newfoundland KC, FCI, AKC
21, 23, 75, 76, 79
Old English Sheepdog KC, FCI,
AKC 56, 283
Pembroke Welsh Corgi KC, AKC
5859, 64
Picardy Sheepdog 44
Polish Lowland Sheepdog KC,
AKC 57
Portuguese Sheepdog 50
Portuguese Watchdog 49
Puli AKC 19, 65
Pumi FCI 65
Pyrenean Mastiff KC 78
Pyrenean Sheepdog KC 18, 50
Romanian Shepherd Dogs 70
Rottweiler KC, FCI, AKC 61, 83,
155, 176, 200
Saarloos Wolfdog 40
Saint Bernard AKC 9, 75,
7677
St. Miguel Cattle Dog 89
Sarplaninac 48
Standard Schnauzer AKC 45,
46, 219
Shetland Sheepdog KC, FCI,
AKC 55, 337
Slovakian Chuvach 82
Smooth Collie KC 54, 337
South Russian Shepherd Dog
56, 57
Spanish Mastiff 88
Swedish Vallhund KC, AKC 60
Taiwan Dog FCI 86
Tatra Shepherd Dog 78
Tibetan Kyi Apso 82
Tibetan Mastiff KC, AKC 11,
8081, 285
Tosa FCI 94
Uruguayan Cimarron 87
White Swiss Shepherd Dog 74

world record
most expensive dog (Tibetan
Mastiff) 81
speed , Mick the Miller
(Greyhound) 126
see also Guinness World Record
worms 339

Xoloitzcuintle (Xolo) FCI see


Xoloitzcuintli
Xoloitzcuintli AKC 19, 37

Yogi (Hungarian Vizsla), UK Best


in Show titles record 246
Yorkshire Terrier KC, FCI, AKC 19,
185, 19091, 192, 292, 316

Zapadno-Sibirskaa Laka FCI see


West Siberian Laika
Zwergpinscher FCI see Miniature
Pinscher
Zwergschnauzer FCI see Miniature
Schnauzer
Zwergspitz FCI see Pomeranian

359

ACKNOWLEDGMENTS

Acknowledgments
The publisher would like to thank the
following people for their assistance with
the book:
Vanessa Hamilton, Namita, Dheeraj
Arora,Pankaj Bhatia, Priyabrata Roy
Chowdhury, Shipra Jain, Swati Katyal, Nidhi
Mehra,Tanvi Nathyal,Gazal Roongta, Vidit
Vashisht,Neha Wahifor design assistance;
Anna Fischel, Sreshtha Bhattacharya, Vibha
Malhotra for editorial assistance; Caroline
Hunt for proofreading; Margaret
McCormack for the index; Richard Smith
(Antiquarian Books, Maps and Prints) www.
richardsmithrarebooks.com, for providing
images of Les Chiens Le Gibier et Ses
Ennemis, published by the directors of La
Manufacture Franaise dArmes et Cycles,
Saint-Etienne, in May 1907; C.K. Bryan for
scanning images from Lydekker, R. (Ed.)The
Royal Natural Historyvol 1 (1893) London:
Frederick Warne.
The publisher would like to thank the
following owners for letting us photograph
their dogs:
Breed name: owners name/dogs registered
name dogs pet name
Chow Chow: Gerry Stevens/Maychow Red
Emperor at Shifanu Aslan; English Pointers:
Wendy Gordon/Hawkeld Sunkissed Sea
Kelt (orange and white) and Wozopeg
Sesame Imphun Woody (liver and white);
Grand Bleu de Gascognes: Mr. and Mrs.
Parker Ale and Ruby; Irish Setters:
Sandy Waterton/Lynwood Kissed by an Angel
at Sandstream Blanche and Lynwood
Strands of Silk at Sandstream Bronte; Irish
Wolfhound: Carole Goodson/CH Moralach
The Gambling Man JW Cookson; Pug: Sue
Garrand from Lujay/Aspie Zeus Merlin;
Puggles: Sharyn Prince/Mario and Peach;
Tibetan Mastiffs: J.Springham and L.Hughes
from Icebreaker Tibetan Mastiffs/Bheara Chu
Tsen George and Seng Khri Gunn Gunn.
Tibetan Mastiff puppies: Shirley Cawthorne
from Bheara Tibetan Mastiffs.
PICTURE CREDITS
Dorling Kindersley would like to thank the
following for their kind permission to
reproduce their photographs:
(Key: a-above; b-below/bottom; c-center;
f-far; l-left; r-right; t-top)
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John Daniels. 4-5 Getty Images: Hans Surfer /
Flickr. 6-7 FLPA: Mark Raycroft / Minden
Pictures. 8 Alamy Images: Jaina Mishra /
Danita Delimont (tr). Getty Images: Jim and
Jamie Dutcher / National Geographic (cr);
Richard Olsenius / National Geographic (bl).
9 Dorling Kindersley: Scans from Jardine, W.
(Ed.) (1840) The Naturalists Library vol
19 (2). Chatto and Windus: London (br);
Jerry Young (tr/Grey Wolf). 14 Dreamstime.
com: Edward Fielding (cra). 16 Dreamstime.
com: Isselee (tr). 20 Alamy Images: Mary
Evans Picture Library (bl). Dorling
Kindersley: Judith Miller (tr). 21 Alamy
Images: Susan Isakson (tl); Moviestore
collection Ltd (bl, crb). 22 Alamy Images:
Melba Photo Agency (cl). Corbis: Bettmann
(tr). Getty Images: M. Seemuller / De Agostini
(bl); George Stubbs / The Bridgeman Art
Library (crb). 23 Alamy Images: Kumar
Sriskandan (br). Getty Images: Imagno /
Hulton Archive (tl). 24 Dreamstime.com:
Vgm (bl). Getty Images: Philippe Huguen /
AFP (tr); L. Pedicini / De Agostini (c). 25 Getty
Images: Danita Delimont / Gallo Images (t).
26-27 Getty Images: E.A. Janes / age
fotostock. 28 Alamy Images: F369 / Juniors
Bildarchiv GmbH. 31 Alamy Images: Mary
Evans Picture Library (cra). Fotolia: Farinoza
(br). 34 Alamy Images: T. Musch /

360

Tierfotoagentur (cr). 36 Corbis: Kevin Schafer


(cr). 37 The Bridgeman Art Library:
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Beier / Reuters. 43 Getty Images: Hulton
Archive / Archive Photos (cra). 46 Fotolia:
rook76 (cr). 47 Corbis: Bettmann (cl).
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Images: Glenn Harper (bc). 77 Dreamstime.
com: Isselee (cla). 81 Corbis: REN JF / epa
(cr). 83 Fotolia: cynoclub (cr). 84 The
Bridgeman Art Library: Eleanor Evans Stout
and Margaret Stout Gibbs Memorial Fund in
Memory of Wilbur D. Peat (bc). Dreamstime.
com: Dmitry Kalinovsky (clb). 86 Alamy
Images: elwynn / YAY Media AS (bc). Flickr.
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Eadweard Muybridge / Archive Photos (cr).
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uk: (bl). 129 Alamy Images: Petra Wegner
(cl). 130 Dorling Kindersley: T. Morgan
Animal Photography (cb, bl, br). 131 Dorling
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Library (cr). 142 Dorling Kindersley: Scans
from Lydekker, R. Ed.)The Royal Natural
History vol 1 (1893) London: Frederick Warne.
(bl). 144 Dorling Kindersley: Scans from Les
Chiens Le Gibier et Ses Ennemis, published by
the directors of La Manufacture Franaise
dArmes et Cycles, Saint-Etienne, in May 1907.

(cl). 146 Alamy Images: Antiques &


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Photography: Eva-Maria Kramer (bc, bl, cra).
Photoshot: NHPA (cla). 170 Getty Images:
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171 Fotolia: Gianni. 172 Animal
Photography: Sally Anne Thompson (tr, cra,
ca). 173 Dorling Kindersley: Scans from
Jardine, W. (Ed.) (1840) The Naturalists
Library vol 19 (2). Chatto and Windus:
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TopFoto.co.uk: Topham / Photri (bc).
181 Dreamstime.com: Joneil (cb). 183
Corbis: National Geographic Society (cr).
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234 Dorling Kindersley: Scans from Les
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dArmes et Cycles, Saint-Etienne, in May 1907.
(cl). 236 Dorling Kindersley: Scans from Les
Chiens Le Gibier et Ses Ennemis, published by
the directors of La Manufacture Franaise
dArmes et Cycles, Saint-Etienne, in May 1907.
(bl). 238 Corbis: Francis G. Mayer (cl).
241 Corbis: Swim Ink 2, LLC (cl). 243 Alamy
Images: AF Archive (cra). Fotolia: glenkar
(clb). 244 Alamy Images: D. Geithner /
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(cl). 246 Fotolia: biglama (bc). Getty Images:
Dan Kitwood / Getty Images News (bl).
248 Corbis: Christopher Felver (cl).
250 Dorling Kindersley: Scans from Les
Chiens Le Gibier et Ses Ennemis, published
by the directors of La Manufacture Franaise
dArmes et Cycles, Saint-Etienne, in May 1907.
(bc). Fotolia: quayside (c). 252 Dorling

Kindersley: Scans from Les Chiens Le Gibier


et Ses Ennemis, published by the directors of
La Manufacture Franaise dArmes et Cycles,
Saint-Etienne, in May 1907. (cl). 255 Alamy
Images: R. Richter / Tierfotoagentur (cl).
Getty Images: Hablot Knight Browne / The
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Productions (cl). 264 Corbis: Yoshihisa Fujita /
MottoPet / amanaimages. 266 Mary Evans
Picture Library: Grenville Collins Postcard
Collection (cra). 267 Alamy Images: Farlap
(cla). 269 Dorling Kindersley: Scans from
Lydekker, R. Ed.)The Royal Natural History
vol 1 (1893) London: Frederick Warne. (cr).
Dreamstime.com: Isselee (cl). 270 Mary
Evans Picture Library: (cr). 272 Dreamstime.
com: Isselee (c). Mary Evans Picture Library:
Thomas Fall (bc). 275 Dreamstime.com:
Metrjohn (cl). 276 Alamy Images: Petra
Wegner. 277 Alamy Images: Petra Wegner (bl,
br). Dorling Kindersley: Scans from Lydekker,
R. Ed.)The Royal Natural History vol 1 (1893)
London: Frederick Warne. (cr). Fotolia: Dixi_
(cl). 279 akg-images: Erich Lessing (cl). 280
Dreamstime.com: Petr Kirillov. 281 Corbis:
Bettmann (cl). 282 Getty Images: Vern Evans
Photo / Getty Images Entertainment (cr).
286-287 Getty Images: Datacraft Co Ltd (c).
286 Alamy Images: Moviestore collection Ltd
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287 Getty Images: Datacraft Co Ltd (br, fbr).
288 Getty Images: Photos by Joy Phipps /
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Carola Schubbel (cl). 295 Getty Images: AFP
(cl). 297 Alamy Images: Donald Bowers /
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WireImage (cr). 298 Dorling Kindersley:
Benjy courtesy of The Mayhew Animal Home
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Isselee (cl, c). 299 Dreamstime.com:
Adogslifephoto (cl); Isselee (tr, bl); Vitaly Titov
& Maria Sidelnikova (c); Erik Lam (cr, br).
300 Dreamstime.com: Cosmin - Constantin
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302-303 FLPA: Ramona Richter /
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314 Alamy Images: F314 / Juniors Bildarchiv
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338 Fotolia: pattie (br). 339 Corbis: Akira
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Created by Lisa Vaughan / Flickr (cla).
341 Getty Images: R. Brandon Harris / Flickr
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