Basenji

Other Names: Congo Dog, Congo Terrier, African Barkless Dog
Country of Origin: Africa
Lifespan: 12 Years
Male Height: 17 Inches
Male Weight: 24 Pounds
Female Height: 16 Inches
Female Weight: 22 Pounds
American Kennel Club Classification : Hound GroupCanadian Kennel Club Classification : HoundsKennel Club (Great Britain) Classification : Hound
Basenji Characteristics
The Basenji or the "Bush Thing" is an ancient breed originating from the Congo in Africa. This dog has many characteristics which make it unique in the dog world, most interestingly the Basenji does not bark but prefers to make howling and whining noises. He is a meticulously clean animal, and will groom himself from head to toe. The Basenji has a wrinkled forehead, giving it a constant inquisitive look. Most breeds of dog have two breeding cycles per year, the Basenji is like the wolf and only has one breeding cycle per year.
This dog of all breeds is the one most like a cat. Clever, inquisitive, independent and reserved with a disposition that is both gentle and friendly. House training is quite easy due to their "clean" nature, though other training requires more patience. Their desire to chase is still quite strong, therefore daily exercise is a must and preferably off-leash in a fenced area.
Basenji History
The Basenji is one of the oldest breed of dogs, with similar dogs being depicted on Egyptian Pharaoh's tombs dating back to 3600 BC. He was first discovered in Sudan and Zaire being used by pygmy hunters to flush game into nets strung out on trees. The first dog appeared in Europe at a London Dog Show in 1895. Early attempts to bring the dog to England were unsuccessful as they succumbed to distemper, and it wasn't until the 1930's that they were successfully brought over.

Australian Terrier

Country of Origin: Australia

Lifespan: 14 Years
Male Height: 10-11 Inches
Male Weight: 12-14 Pounds
Female Height: 10-11 Inches
Female Weight: 12-14 Pounds
American Kennel Club Classification : Terrier GroupCanadian Kennel Club Classification : TerriersKennel Club (Great Britain) Classification : Terrier

Australian Shepherd

Other Names: Aussie
Country of Origin: USA
Lifespan: 12-13 Years
Male Height: 20-23 Inches
Male Weight: 50-65 Pounds
Female Height: 18-21 Inches
Female Weight: 40-55 Pounds American Kennel Club Classification : Herding GroupCanadian Kennel Club Classification : Herding DogsKennel Club (Great Britain) Classification : Pastoral (Herding)Australian Shepherd Characteristics
As is consistent with his heritage, the Australian Shepherd is a dog with strong herding and sheep guarding instincts. He may try to herd young children by nipping them, but they generally get along well with children. They may be somewhat wary of strangers until they are comfortable with them, by they are always devoted to their owners. This dog has incredible stamina, thus daily walks are necessary. Their coat requires more than average care as he will pick up burrs, foxtails, and other materials on his romps in the wild.
Australian Shepherd History
Despite his name, the Australian Shepherd did not originate in Australia, it is thought that he originated in Spain. Around 1875, Basque sheep herders were migrating to the US and they brought their sheepdogs with them. The Americans named their dogs Australian Shepherd dogs because Australia was the immediate home of the Basque shepherds, though they originated from Europe.
Canadian and Mexican Kennel Clubs recognized the breed in 1976. They were admitted to the AKC in the Miscellaneous class in 1991, and were given full status in 1993. Upon recognition, it became an immediate success. The breed was popularized by a dog-trick act that performed in rodeos, and featured an Australian Shepherd. Many of these dogs were owned by Jay Sisler, and her dogs can still be found in the pedigree of many of today's dogs.
In 1957 the Australian Shepherd Club of America (ASCA) was formed and became the largest registry in America. Many of the members of ASCA felt that AKC recognition was not a good thing for the breed, so proponents were forced to form their own organization, and they called it the United States Australian Shepherd Association. The AKC popularity ranking does not do justice to the actual popularity of this breed because many breeders are not registered with the AKC.

Australian Cattle Dog

Other Names: Blue Heeler, Queensland Heeler, Hall's Heeler

Country of Origin: Australia
Lifespan: 12 Years
Male Height: 18-20 Inches
Male Weight: 35-45 Pounds
Female Height: 17-19 Inches
Female Weight: 35-45 Pounds
American Kennel Club Classification : Herding GroupCanadian Kennel Club Classification : Herding DogsKennel Club (Great Britain) Classification : Pastoral (Herding)
Breed Description
The Australian Cattle Dog is a sturdy, compact breed, with great agility, strength and endurance. This breed excels at driving cattle and shows the same sense of duty and courage when protecting its family.
Temperament
Australian Cattle Dogs are smart, independent and hardworking. They are devoted to their master and tireless when given a job to do. They are alert, trustworthy and courageous, and somewhat naturally suspicious of strangers.

Anatolian Shepherd

Other Names: Anatolian Shepherd Dog, Coban Kopegi,
Karabash Dog, Kara bas, Kangal Dog
Country of Origin: Turkey
Lifespan: 10-11 Years
Male Height: 29+ Inches
Male Weight: 110-150 Pounds
Female Height: 27+ Inches
Female Weight: 80-120 Pounds
American Kennel Club Classification : Working GroupCanadian Kennel Club Classification : Miscellaneous ClassKennel Club (Great Britain) Classification : Pastoral (Herding)
The Anatolian Shepherd’s appearance clearly reflects its vocation as a guardian; the breed is large (categorized as giant), strong and fast. The Anatolian Shepherd has an intelligent expression and wide-set, dark brown, almond-shaped eyes. The ears are approximately four to six inches in length, V-shaped, rounded at the tips and rest on the sides of head. The muzzle has a sturdy, strong appearance and the nose is either brown or entirely black. The Anatolian Shepherd’s body is powerful, with an arch in the back above the loin, sturdy legs, and a long, high set tail that is often carried in a “wheel” shape. The dog has a thick, soft undercoat and an outer coat that is either short and smooth or long and rough, with the hair being longer around the mane and neck. The coat can be of any color, but fawn with a black mask is most common.
The Anatolian Shepherd is an observant, intelligent and calm breed ready to protect what it perceives as its flock. Bred for livestock protection, the Anatolian Shepherd is naturally territorial and can serve as a courageous guardian. These dogs may act reserved in the presence of strangers or in unfamiliar places. Proper obedience training from a young age is vital, since this will determine whether your Anatolian will become a pleasant and docile companion or an intractable nightmare. The Anatolian Shepherd’s large size coupled with its independent and sometimes obstinate personality can sometimes make training a daunting task; this dog is therefore recommended for experienced dog owners only. Exposure to other pets and small animals from a young age will help you Anatolian Shepherd overcome his natural chasing instincts.
The Anatolian Shepherd’s nomadic roots have instilled a need for travel, and this breed needs at least a long walk everyday; a long run or free roam will also be appreciated whenever you can manage it. The breed sheds twice a year and during this time it should be brushed regularly, however when it is not shedding the dog requires only minimal grooming at its owners discretion. The Anatolian Shepherd is a serious working dog and is unlikely to do well in an apartment without a yard. The Anatolian Shepherd is susceptible to canine hip dysplasia and entropion.
Training Anatolian Shepherd Dogs for livestock protection
Anatolian Shepherds have been used as guardians for a wide range of hoofstock and birds, including (but not limited to) sheep, goats, horses, cattle, llamas, ostriches, chickens, ducks, pheasants, and turkeys. The bonding process of pup or adult dog to the stock is important with all species; however, some of the smaller types of fowls are at a disadvantage due to their smaller size and relative fragility. While pups are often penned with or near some of the larger animals while they learn appropriate behavior, even a very young puppy can damage or kill a chicken in the mildest of play interactions. That is why it is important to set the parameters of behavior quickly and firmly in dogs intended as poultry guardians. The limits of appropriate and inappropriate behavior should be set under close supervision, so that you can train your dog to be the flock guardian you want him to be.
I have used Anatolian Shepherds to guard my flock of poultry for 13 years, and am now on my second generation of guards. My first six dogs were all raised from puppyhood directly with my flock and can serve as guards if need be, but as we have since relocated to a property where the fowls are no longer kept near the house, only a pair of dogs live with the flock full-time. My newest stock guard was not kept full-time with birds until she was 18 months old. The following is a description of the circumstances in which my dogs are used.
My flock is rather varied in composition; I have both large and bantam chickens, as well as ornamental pheasants. At times, I have also kept geese and peafowl. A substantial number (approximately 50 - 60) of birds are free-range, and roost in one stall of the barn/kennel/aviary building. Nests are provided on top of the doghouses in the kennels: some birds prefer to lay in the doghouses instead! Several free-standing nests with access at ground level are provided for the hens rearing chicks, which are also free-range. Breeding pairs, brooding hens, and pheasants are kept in poultry netting enclosures, and adult roosters that are not currently in breeding pens are leashed by the leg to a swivel stake, giving them a 16 foot diameter circle, with a small house along one edge for roosting and shade. The perimeter of the bird pasture' (about 3 acres) is fenced with wire having a spacing of 2" X 4", and which is 5' along some sides, and 4' on others. The 4' section has an electric wire along the top, to teach young dogs to not jump on the fence. There is a dirt truck trail running along the 4' fence line.
Predators in our area include the usual raccoons, opossums, and free-roaming neighbors' dogs, with the addition of bobcats, coyotes, a resident cougar, and large bands of illegal immigrants crossing over from nearby Mexico. Out of the literally hundreds of birds I have raised, predation has resulted in the loss of fewer than a dozen (which were in areas inaccessible to the dogs).
Dogs can be invaluable to the maintenance of a flock. They keep predators away, break up fights in young stock, and alert you if something is out of the ordinary (bird tangled in his leash, snake in the breeding pen, baby chick on the wrong side of a fence). Birds that are fighting may be flapping madly, squawking and covered in each other's blood, yet the dogs will race in, barking, swatting them away from each other with their forelegs, or reaching in and grasping the birds by their wing or tail feathers and pulling them away from each other. Baby chicks may be hopping right into a dog's food bowl, and the dog will just back away with a quizzical expression. My bird guards seem to view the fowls their own pets, regarding them with a wonderful tolerance and a desire for peace and order.
Dogs do not just figure all of this out on their own; they are not born with the knowledge that large, noisy feathery things are to be cherished and protected. They are, however, born with the POTENTIAL to do this kind of work, with the cleverness and desire to figure out how to keep the peace, and with all of the necessary instincts for stock guardianship. How to actualize this inborn potential? The beginning is socialization. Take your dog or puppy with you when feeding, cleaning, or doing any other routine activities with your stock. I feed my flock early in the morning, before leaving for work. When training my youngest flock guard, Gezme, I took her and her brother up to the bird yard with me every morning, allowing them the opportunity to interact with the fowls, and with the senior guardians (Sahin and Sahbaz). While feeding, cleaning, and scrubbing things, I kept an eye on her, and if she began to put her feet up against a pen, run around it, or chase a bird, I yelled, "Gez, Phooey! Leave it!" If she remained interested (in a playful or predatory fashion), I'd run over, roll her over on her side with one hand across her neck and shoulders, and the other over her muzzle (holding her firmly but gently) and tell her, "No! Leave it!" Usually, after using this mother dog' style discipline a few times, she would look at the birds, but not try to chase. Until she forgot, the next day!
This is where consistency comes in - NEVER allow the dog to do something you don't approve of. Chasing is an inherently rewarding behavior, so in order to extinguish it, the less it is allowed to happen, the better. Also, allow alternatives; chasing is an instinct that is not wrong, but it must be directed at appropriate targets (something all young wild canids are taught by their mothers). A chicken may be "No" and "Leave it" (or get rolled and pinned), but a squirrel, gopher, or rabbit may be "That's a girl" and "Get it". That shovel or feed dish may need to be left alone, but that bone or stick may be perfectly acceptable. Don't try to go against or ignore the forces of instinct and nature - just direct them into acceptable activities. Gezme was allowed to play - but only with her brother or the old dogs. Running through the middle of the birds was a bad idea, but lying quietly near them was O.K. Gez was fascinated by the pheasants, who have quick, sharp movements, are apt to fly around their aviaries if disturbed, and who make an astonishing variety of high-pitched noises. She learned that she could go up to their pens and look in, but then she would walk away when their whistles and chirps became more frequent and higher pitched, signaling that they were getting ready to take off and try to brain themselves against the roof of their pen. Her brother, Gar, could eventually look in and observe them, too, but the birds seemed to be more afraid of him at first (possibly because Garnizon is a dark brindle, and the other dogs are all fawns).
This brings up another point: that of acclimating the flock to being around something which looks an awful lot like a predator to them. My chickens and other fowl paid little, if any, attention to Sahin and Sahbaz, who had been around them their entire lives. However, new birds take a while to become accustomed to dogs, and the birds also know the difference between their' dogs and other' dogs.. Skittish animals may lead inexperienced dogs into temptation! When training a new dog, it is preferable for the stock to be acclimated to the presence of a non-threatening dog. Just having a pup or new dog around the stock while you are with them helps the flock accustom themselves to the dog, which, incidentally, causes the flock to behave in a much calmer, less prey-like fashion.
Anatolians are also great mimics; think about what you are doing, before you do something in front of them! Dig a little in a garden, and they are glad to help you out by digging deeper, pick some fruit, and they'll try to make your job easier by pulling off a few branches. Chase a few animals (to medicate them, they got loose, etc.), and your dog may decide that he should help out and try to catch some too. Older dogs know that only you have this privilege, but try not to give puppies ideas. This is why an already trained dog is worth his weight in gold - they act as mentors', as the pup will watch the older dog and do as he does. This can backfire, however, if the old dog has some undesirable behaviors, as the younger dog will learn them as well.
Having self-assured animals also helps teach pups to give them some personal space'. My pup, Gezme, was also assisted in her understanding that she shouldn't get too close to the chickens by being walloped by some of the roosters, for the crime of walking too close to their houses. She was also bitten on the nose when investigating broody hens in nests, and, later in the spring, was chased by mother hens. Why didn't she try to play with them? Well, any time she'd responded in a playful manner, I'd yelled and rolled her. I'd also let her see chickens close up by holding one and letting her smell it, but telling her "No" if she tried to mouth legs or feathers (I'd also allow the chicken to bite her, if it was so inclined). Pretty soon, she was figuring that, while chickens and such were interesting, it wasn't pleasant to get TOO close to them.
If a couple of mistakes' are made in the beginning, don't despair - it is not necessarily a sign of an incompatible dog, if a couple of birds are inadvertently dispatched by your novice flock guard. My first stock guard killed several young chickens during his learning phase, but once he got the idea, I never had a bit of trouble for the next 12 years. Try to figure out what triggered the inappropriate behavior (unusual appearance or behavior of an individual, aggressive behavior mistaken for invitation to play, swarming' behavior of flock prior to feeding time) and take steps to habituate your dog to this stimulus, so that the undesired behavior pattern is extinguished. One dog had trouble with the behavior of the flock just prior to being fed in the morning - fowls pacing along a fence line, increased minor fighting, flapping, etc. - so the flock was shut into the pen they roosted in, at night, for a couple of months. (Tethered roosters remained accessible, as they were unable to perform the fence running' behaviors.) The dog observed these disturbing behaviors from the other side of a fence, and the fowls were not released until I fed them in the morning; after feeding, they scatter. At the end of the 2 months, the door to the roosting area was left tied open again, and as the dog was now accustomed to this kind of behavior, there were no further problems.
Anatolian Shepherds CAN be used with great success for guarding poultry flocks, but early supervision and reinforcement of appropriate behaviors is essential. Much of this kind of training is also applicable to situations with larger stock, during the breeding season, or when the young are being born. Don't make assumptions about how a young dog will behave when confronted with a newborn for the first time; many may automatically accept it, but many others may be completely nonplussed by the event, and need guidance.
A year of training is a small investment for peace of mind and the assurance that your flock is being watched over and protected day and night, for the next ten years. Most dogs come into their own' between 12 and 18 months, and it is at this point that your dog has been exposed to the events of the whole year, knows what to expect, how to react.... and you know then that you have a 'finished' stock guard!

American Staffordshire Terrier

Other Names: Pit Bull Terrier, American Pit Bull

Country of Origin: USA
Lifespan: 12 Years
Male Height: 18-19 Inches
Male Weight: 57-67 Pounds
Female Height: 17-18 Inches
Female Weight: 57-67 Pounds
American Kennel Club Classification : Terrier GroupCanadian Kennel Club Classification : TerriersKennel Club (Great Britain) Classification : Terrier
American Staffordshire Terrier - A Pit Bull Could Be The Right Dog For You
Although Pit Bulls have gained a bad reputation for their seemingly aggressive behavior, this breed can be the ideal pet for the right owner. Pit Bulls crave attention and are very loyal and loving toward people.
Other dogs, on the other hand, tend to bring out the aggressive behavior of the Pit Bull. Originally bred to fight other dogs, Pit Bulls generally will not tolerate other dogs, especially those of the same sex. But with an owner who is knowledgeable about Pit Bulls and their personality traits, this breed will flourish and bring a great deal of enjoyment to their human companions.
Pit Bulls tend to be very confident, loving and bright, but also very dependent on humans. If left on their own for too long, they will often develop destructive habits such as chewing out of frustration and loneliness.
A good owner for this pet would be someone who is very responsible and committed to the specific care required by a Pit Bull. Pit Bulls need a great deal of training, exercise and one on one attention with their owners to keep from becoming frustrated. They should also not be left alone with other dogs. Therefore, a household with no other pets is an ideal home for a Pit bull.
Contrary to the image that they have in the media, Pit Bulls can be great with children. In general, Pit Bulls love people, especially children. The most common problem associated with Pit Bulls and children is that Pit Bulls are extremely energetic and they have a tendency, in their excitement, to knock young children over, puppies especially have a tendency for this.
They are also very easy to train due to their high level of intelligence and desire to please their owner. For this reason, positive methods of training work best for a Pit Bull. Demoralizing punishments usually are very counterproductive in Pit Bulls because of their personality traits and should be avoided.
Pit Bulls live for an average of 12 to 14 years and usually experience good health for their entire lifetimes. Some common health problems experienced by the breed include Parvo, hip displaysia, hereditary cataracts and allergies.
In General, this breed is very easy to socialize with humans and is typically a great deal of fun to have around. Many Pit Bulls exhibit superior performance when it comes to obedience training and physical activities such as Frisbee and playing ball. For these reasons, Pit Bulls should not be overlooked when selecting a pet if you have what it takes to care for this special breed.
American Staffordshire Terrier - 10 Easy to Remember Tips for Responsible Pit Bull Owners
1. Exercise your dog everyday. Pit Bulls are high energy dogs that need some way of burning off that pinned up energy. Even a short 10-15 minute walk or game of fetch in the backyard will help burn off energy that can lead to behavior problems.
2. Never leave pit bulls alone with other dogs (or any animal). Even if you're dog gets along great 99.9% of the time with other animals the Pit Bull is known for animal aggression and it is possible something will happen. A good piece of advice I received a long time ago was, never trust your Pit Bull not to fight.
3. Always have your dog on a leash in public. Most if not all towns, cities and states have leash laws. Obey these laws. This will help people see your dog in a positive light and keep accidents like getting hit by passing cars from occurring.
4. Always supervise your dogs and never allow them to roam free. Loose dogs are often hurt by cruel people and accidents can happen as well. Always know where your dog is.
5. Supervise your dog with small children. This is a must. Small children are often hurt by dogs not out of angry, but because dogs can scratch them, step on them, and otherwise injure them.
6. Spay or Neuter your dog. Unless you plan on doing something where the dog can not be spayed or neutered get it done. This will reduce accidental breeding and stop roaming males from getting loose.
7. Train your dog. Take your dog to obedience classes or hire a private trainer to help you train your dog. This is very important for Pit Bull owners. If you can not control your dog bad things will eventually happen. Get your dog into training as soon as possible.
8. Avoid dog parks. The one exception to this tip is when your Pit Bull is a puppy and up to date on all their shots going to a dog park to socialize them. However, when the dog gets older it turns into a bad idea.
Because you have a Pit Bull is not the main reason for not going to places like these. Rather it's because other dogs and owners are not responsible and let their dogs run around like retards. This can cause friction between your dog and another dog at the park. Not a good scenario.
9. Socialize your dog. Take your dog to as many places as you can, meet new people and while they are young meet as many other dogs as possible. Socializing your Pit Bull will help curb any future problems that might occur.
10. Keep your dog properly confined. Pit Bulls are known to be great escape artist. Make sure you have the means to keep them in your yard and properly confined. Installing a six foot privacy fence is not a bad idea either.

American Foxhound

Country of Origin: USA

Lifespan: 11-13 Years
Male Height: 22-25 Inches
Male Weight: 21-24 Pounds
Female Height: 22-25 Inches
Female Weight: 21-24 Pounds
American Kennel Club Classification : Hound GroupCanadian Kennel Club Classification : HoundsKennel Club (Great Britain) Classification : Hound
Desription
While similar to its English cousin, the American Foxhound has been developed by its breeders to be lighter and taller, to have a keener sense of smell, and to be even faster in the chase. A large, handsome hound, its front legs are long and very straight-boned. The head is long with a slightly domed, large skull. The ears are broad and pendant, framing the face. The eyes are large and wide-set - either brown or hazel, with a sweet, imploring expression. The ears are wide, flat to the head and its tail is carried cheerfully with a slight upward curve, like a sickle. The short, hard coat may be any color.
Temperament
The American Foxhound is sweet, affectionate, gentle and loving at home, but also a brave and intense warrior in the hunt. They are excellent with children and get along well with other dogs because of their pack-hunting background, but should not be trusted with non-canine pets. Friendliness to strangers varies widely. They are very friendly dogs, however if a particular dog is allowed to see himself as pack leader to humans he may become protective. This breed can be difficult to housebreak. Be aware, the American Foxhound will take off after an interesting scent if possible. They like to bay and have a melodious bark, so much so, in fact, that its tones have been used in popular songs. Foxhounds don't always make good house pets, due to their history as outdoor pack kennel hounds. If you are looking for a pet, whom you are not going to take hunting, try show lines rather than field types. No matter what type you decide on be sure to provide plenty of daily exercise, and be your dog's firm, but calm, confident, consistent pack leader to avoid behavior issues.
Health Problem
A fairly healthy breed, American Foxhounds are free of many genetic diseases such as hip and bone problems, which plague other large breeds. Do not overfeed this breed as he has a tendency to put on weight.
OriginThis marvelous Foxhound is directly descended from English hounds brought to America in 1650 and bred over a century later to a French hound sent as a gift by Lafayette to George Washington. The two breeds, French and English, in combination have produced the American Foxhound. In the seventeenth century, these dogs were used for seeking out Indians. Later, however they became efficient and untiring hunters of wild animals. The American Foxhound has an excellent nose, and is very fast when giving chase. He has great stamina for running and a musical bay. The American Foxhound is still primarily a hunting and field trial dog (in packs and alone), though he has had some success as a companion dog. Its talents are hunting, tracking, watchdog and agility.

American Eskimo Dog

also known as: American Spitz
Country of Origin: USA
Lifespan: 12-13 Years
Male Height: Standard 15-19Miniature 12-15Toy 9-12 Inches
Male Weight: Standard 20-40Miniature 11-20Toy 6-10 Pounds
Female Height: Standard 15-19Miniature 12-15Toy 9-12 Inches
Female Weight: Standard 20-40Miniature 11-20Toy 6-10 Pounds
American Kennel Club Classification : Non-Sporting GroupCanadian Kennel Club Classification : Non-Sporting DogsKennel Club (Great Britain) Classification : Working
The American Eskimo Dog is a member of the Spitz family. Like most Spitz breeds, the American Eskimo Dog has pointed, erect ears and an impressive coat. The head is fairly small and carries an intelligent expression. The eyes have an oval shape, are dark brown in color, and are surrounded by dark brown or black rims. The nose, like the rims, is a medium to dark brown color. The American Eskimo Dog has a beautifully plumed tail that usually curls up freely over the back but may drop down when the dog is at rest. The dog features a double coat that stands off from the body, keeping the dog warm in snowy climes. The American Eskimo Dog’s body is compact, and like the Poodle this breed comes in three distinct sizes: standard, miniature and toy. Please note that the dimensions listed above apply to a Standard or exceptionally large Miniature American Eskimo Dog. Toys typically weigh 6 – 10 pounds and stand 9 – 12” in height.
Because of its quick wit and desire to please, the American Eskimo Dog is relatively easy to train and does well in competitive obedience. Though the dog can be a bit reserved at times, it is not considered to be an exceedingly shy breed. The American Eskimo Dog can be very good with kids if it receives sufficient exposure and interacts with children early in its life. The breed is generally good with other pets, particularly if they are of the same size or slightly larger, although the American Eskimo Dog can be act in a dominating fashion toward smaller animals. The American Eskimo Dog will unfailingly let out a warning bark whenever a stranger approaches its territory, and is therefore an able watchdog.
The American Eskimo Dog has a beautiful, flowing coat that needs to be brushed approximately twice a week, particularly when shedding. With regard to exercise, the dog will do well with a daily walk and can also benefit from a free romp in a safe, enclosed yard. Exercise requirements vary by size, with the Standard needing a fairly strenuous workout every day and the Toy little more than a few laps around the house. A fairly healthy breed, the American Eskimo Dog does not get sick very often; occasionally, one will see canine hip dysplasia, patellar luxation and progressive retinal atrophy in the breed.

American Cocker Spaniel

Other Names: Cocker Spaniel
Country of Origin: USA
Lifespan: 13-14 Years
Male Height: 14.5-15.5 Inches
Male Weight: 24-28 Pounds
Female Height: 13.5-14.5 Inches
Female Weight: 24-28 Pounds
American Kennel Club Classification : Sporting GroupCanadian Kennel Club Classification : Sporting DogsKennel Club (Great Britain) Classification : Gundog
American Cocker Spaniel Characteristics
The American Cocker Spaniel has been referred to as the "merry cocker", and merry he is. Playful, amiable, cheerful, sweet and sensitive are a few words to describe this dog. This dog loves to play and frolic. He gets along exceptionally well with children, but children must be taught to treat the dog in a gentle manner.
The amazing beauty of this animal only comes at a huge cost, and that cost is hours and hours of grooming. If you cannot afford the money to have this dog clipped and brushed on a regular basis, or you aren't willing to do it yourself then you should steer clear of this breed. The American Cocker Spaniel has a tendency to become overweight, so food monitoring and exercise is necessary. The furry feet of this dog can drag in all kinds of dirt into a house.
American Cocker Spaniel History
The American Cocker Spaniel is a direct descendent of the English Cocker Spaniel. Many were brought over to North America from England in the late 1870's. How they developed is not entirely clear, but the American hunters preferred a smaller dog for hunting quail and other small game birds. The American and English Cocker Spaniels were considered varieties of the same breed until 1946 when the AKC created two distinct categories. Once they were separated, they surged in popularity and became the number one dog in North America. The breed wasn't recognized by the English Kennel Club until 1968. The breed's huge popularity almost became its downfall as indiscriminate breeders were breeding without concern for the dog's temperament. Responsible breeders saw this happening and they took it upon themselves to turn this trend around, and today you will find that great temperament that made them famous in the first place.
In the height of their popularity in the show circuit, it was near impossible for any colour other than the blacks to win. The breed club was granted permission to even the playing field by having the breed represented in three different colours: black, parti-coloured, and ASCOB (Any Solid Colour Other than Black).
The Cocker Spaniel
The name "cocker" hails from the woodcock, a bird this spaniel was initially bred to hunt. Excellent retrievers with sensitive mouths, er Spaniels are great at hunting all sorts of birds in difficult terrain. Because they are originally hunting/water dogs, their skin tends to be super oily. Though the English er is regarded as a companion dog because of his good nature, the intrinsic talents of this breed fall in the realm of hunting, retrieving, competitive obedience and agility.
A compactly crafted, medium-sized dog with long floppy ears that reach to the nose when pulled forward, this breed is strong, well-balanced, and solid with medium length hair. Their inky oval eyes have an unyielding intelligence about them--enough to make you melt.
These companion dogs are energetic, merry, and easy to love. Naturally affectionate, they are wonderful with children--to a point. Though gentle and playful, they do not tolerate teasing and taunting very well. With strangers, this dog is a socialite and will chat it up with the best of them. A great watch dog, the English er Spaniel barks if anyone knocks on the door and they obey orders respectfully.
Though this breed is generally outgoing, some individuals in the breed can be quite reserved. In fact, temperament varies widely in this breed. Some er Spaniels suddenly become enraged and bite their owners for no apparent cause--this is known as "Cocker rage." Unfortunately, there doesn't seem to be an effective way to treat this. Some female ers can be fairly nt and should not be placed with passive owners. Because of their long ears and their love for outdoor exercise, this breed is prone to ear problems due to heat and/or bacteria. During the summer, the ears should be checked for grass seeds and signs of infection and cleaned often to remove wax buildup. HealthyPetNet Ear Care will help this kind of debris to rise to the surface, allowing you to clean it out with ease. Hanging so close to the ground, the ears become quite vulnerable to ticks and dirt. It is highly possible for this breed to go deaf if the ears are left unchecked.
Grooming is also a must. These dogs are also known for their skin challenges. Because of their oily skin and various allergies, itching, lesions and sores can occur often. Board certified dermatologists suggest that these dogs should be washed 8-10 times a week!
Make sure you give this breed plenty of exercise because a low thyroid, which these dogs are known for getting, can result in obesity.
If you plan to trim down this summer, this dog is the perfect companion. This breed loves exercise and has plenty of stamina. You'll find yourself struggling to keep up.

Alaskan Malamute

Country of Origin: Alaska
Lifespan: 12 Years
Male Height: 25 Inches
Male Weight: 85 Pounds
Female Height: 23 Inches
Female Weight: 75 Pounds
American Kennel Club Classification : Working GroupCanadian Kennel Club Classification : Working DogsKennel Club (Great Britain) Classification : Working
Alaskan Malamute Characteristics
A tough and powerful dog, the Alaskan Malamute followed the early Alaskans from their journey from either Asia or Scandinavia. This dog roamed the vast arctic snows for millennia before white man ever even set foot upon the land. The Alaskan Malamute was bred for power and not for speed.
Alaskan Malamute History
The Mahlemut people of the arctic were nomads who traveled to new hunting grounds on a continual basis. The Alaskan Malamute was required to be very strong to pull the contents of the village from place to place. Early European explorers and Russian sailors were keenly aware of the beauty of the Alaskan Malamute and the affection that the Mahlemuts had for their dogs.
Alaskan Malamute - The Nordic Sled Dog
The Alaskan Malamute is a medium-large to large dog that weighs between 70-95 pounds and measures up to 25". They are best known as sled dogs and are used to hard work. They ideal for cold climates or homes that will keep them cool and hydrated in hot summers. The Alaskan Malamute has a thick, coarse outer coat and woolly, dense undercoat. They are dressed for cold weather. If you own an Alaskan Malamute and live in a warmer climate, you need to make sure that they have a place to get out of the sun and plenty of water.
They come in a variety of colors including solid white, shadings of light to medium gray, black, sable, and red. In animals with shadings, parts of legs, feet, the underbody, and part of face markings are predominantly white. The AKC does not recognize any other solid colors than white.
Alaskan Malamutes are independent, friendly and loyal. They are more active as puppies and tend to mellow when they get older. They are chewers, diggers and explorers. If you don't want it played with, than put it away. When your Alaskan Malamute is outside, make sure that they can't dig out of the yard or jump over they fence. They are not good apartment, small home or city dogs. They love to be outside and need plenty of room to play. Because they are extremely playful as puppies, they would be better for older children until they become calmer. They work best with other animals and pets when they are socialized at a young age. They can be aggressive towards other dogs and can consider small animals prey. This is an ideal dog for a family home that allows plenty of outdoor time to play and explore
The breed dates back over 2000 years and is a native of Alaska. They were originally used as sled dogs by the Alaskan Malamute Eskimo tribe. In addition to a companion dog, the Alaskan Malamutes are still used as sled dogs for racing, exploration and families living in arctic regions.
As hardworking sled dogs, they are important household pets for families living in cold, snow covered areas and imperative to their way of life. If you are looking for an independent but loving companion, the Alaskan Malamute is a perfect dog for you.

Akita

Other Names: Akita Inu, Japanese Akita
Country of Origin: Japan
Lifespan: 10-12 Years
Male Height: 25-28 Inches
Male Weight: 85-130 Pounds
Female Height: 23-26 Inches
Female Weight: 65-110 Pounds
American Kennel Club Classification : Working GroupCanadian Kennel Club Classification : Working DogsKennel Club (Great Britain) Classification : Utility
Akita Characteristics
The Akita is the largest of the Japanese dog breeds and comes in all colours, ranging from white to brindle. A solid, powerful, assertive, independent, and headstrong dog; this is a dog that requires a seasoned handler. With the proper obedience, love, and socialization, he will become a very loyal family dog who is happy to be involved in your daily activities.
The Akita does not generally do well interacting with other dogs because it has a strong instinct to become dominant. It is important to socialize this dog at early age. Early interaction with other dogs, children, and cats is important if this is to become a regular part of their lives. He requires daily exercise and regular weekly grooming. They do shed continuously, and more so during their twice yearly shedding season.
Akita History
The Akita dates back over three hundred years to the Island of Honshu in the region of Akita, Japan. A 4,000 year old archeological dig brought forward records that show a dog called the "peat dog" with clear similarities to the present day Akitas. Originally bred as a fighting dog, they were also popular for hunting bear, boar, and deer.
The Akita is highly revered in Japan. The skins of the deceased dogs were often hung in the Japanese houses as a sign of respect, and to serve as a memory. In 1931 the Japanese government named the Akita a national treasure. The first Akita was brought over to North America by Helen Keller in 1937. Many more of the dogs arrived on North American soil by American servicemen who brought them back with them after serving in Japan during the war. The breed achieved AKC recognition in 1972, and is still used to this day as a guard dog and as a police dog in Japan.
Probably the most famous of all Japanese dogs was an Akita named Haichiko. He would greet his master at the train station every day to walk home with him. When his master died at work, Haichiko continued to show up at the train station. He showed up everyday until he died 9 years later. To this day there is still a statue and an annual ceremony to commemorate the dedication and love of a dog for his master.
Akita History and Breeder Information
The Akita, also known as the Akita Inu or Akita-ken, is a large Japanese dog breed. They are named after Akita Precture, which is a region in Northern Japan. In Japan, the Akita is usually referred to as Akita-ken. 'Ken' means 'dog' is Japanese as does 'inu.' Male Akitas usually stand 24 to 28 inches tall and weight approximately 120 pounds. Females usually weigh about 100 pounds. Akitas can be black, brindle, white, fawn, or any combination or variety of these colors. Akita puppies and teens look very similar to Shiba Inus.
Originally, Akitas were bred as a hound dog to round up large game animals throughout the mountains of Japan. Like many hounds, the Akitas disposition is quite complacent and easygoing. While Akitas historically have been used as hounds, the AKC has put them in the Working Group. Akitas only bark when prompted to and are generally very quiet dogs. Relative to other large dogs, Akitas don't require as much exercise which makes them very good house dogs.
Much like the Shiba Inu and other Japanese breeds, the Akita grew nearly instinct during World War II mainly due to lack of food. After the war, the popularity of Akitas exploded as they were generally liked by the occupying forces in Japan because they were by far the largest Japanese breed. Their popularity vastly grew in the coming decades all over the world.
If socialized well, Akitas make agile, friendly, and loyal companions. If not socialized and left alone, they tend to have personality issues that can make them unfriendly dogs. This obviously isn't unique to Akitas, however due to their pack oriented background; an isolated Akita can develop negative personality traits more noticeable than other dogs. If you raise you're Akita with children in a family environment, they will make an outstanding house pet for anyone.
Akita Inu - Meet the Akita
The Akita is a large dog weighing between 75 and 120 pounds and up to 28" in height. Of the Japanese Spitz-type breeds, the Akita is the largest. Pronounced AH-ki-ta in Japan and a-KEE-ta in the western world, the Akita is a powerful, top notch watchdog and protector of his family and territory.
The AKC recognizes Akitas in any color including pinto, white or brindle. Colors are clear and brilliant. All white Akitas do not have a mask whereas other colors tend to have one. The soft, undercoat can be a different color than the outer coat. The harsh, thick outer coat requires regular grooming.
This large, energetic dog is extremely protective of family and territory. For this reason, they might be aggressive to other animal and children that they don't know if they feel that their territory is being invaded. They do best with older, well behaved children and are not recommended for children who might mistreat or tease them. They should be kept in a fenced in yard and never allowed to roam free. The Akita can be a loving, affectionate dog when properly treated. Early training and socialization is highly recommended for this breed. They require regular exercise and love to be with their family.
The Akita is a native of Japan and dates back to the 1600s to the Island of Honshu. It is the national dog of Japan and highly revered by the Japanese. You can find statues and Akita art throughout the country. Originally used as a military dog, guard dog and hunting dog, the Akita has not lost these watchdog instincts. Helen Keller was the first person in the US to own an Akita.
A breed with such a high instincts to protect and patrol his surroundings makes for an awesome guard dog. Depending on your family dynamics, the Akita may be ideal for your pet companion needs. Those with lots of other pets or small children might want to do more research before bringing and Akita into your home.
The Akita a Successful Working Dog
The Akita originated in Japan and is highly prized within their culture. You will find that Akita is a medium sized dog with the males gaining a height of 25 to 28 inches and the females 23 to 26 inches. They normally weigh between 65 to 130 pounds depending on sex and of course their care. Generally these dogs are white, pinto, or brindle in color. While they live in a moderate to hot climate in Japan you will find they have a double coat that is quite waterproof. The Akita has a harsh, straight topcoat, with an under coat that is dense and soft. This dog breed typically sheds their coat twice a year.
The character of the dog is alert, powerful, responsive, and courageous. In other words they love to have some sort of activity where they get to work as well as be very close to people. They are often great companions, therapy dogs, or guard dogs depending on your needs. They are usually not the greatest dog for small children as they are not as affectionate as other breeds, but they do take care of the ones they love.
The best characteristic of the Akita is the companionship they provide. They are extremely loyal to family members and tend to be restrained with strangers. You will find they are a one pet family. Other pets where they would have to share their food, territory, and family are considered a threat. They will have a more aggressive side with other pets or dogs. They tend to tolerate children and once they are used to the children will protect them. However they are not comfortable around other people's children. They do not excessively bark either.
If you are considering this dog breed you will want to make sure you and the dog are going to be a good fit. They are not happy with career families, novice dog owners, or owners who are submissive. They deal well when commanded, working, or when you can shower them with a lot of attention.
Akita dogs are going to require a certain amount of grooming. They need to be brushed daily with a firm bristle. You will want to avoid bathing the dog as much as possible. They tend to have sensitive skin and it can become irritated when you bath them and use shampoo. You also don't want to strip the coat of its natural oils during the bathing process as that can cause damage. This dog breed has webbed feet and need to have the hair trimmed away from their paws to make them more comfortable.
A caution for the Akita dogs is their medical problems. They are prone to hip dysphasia, hypothyroid, eye problems, and lupus. You have to be very attentive with the Akita breed when dealing with health care. You will want to make sure they have regular trips to the veterinarian and that they are given proper nutrition.
Lastly when you are considering owning an Akita you will need to spend a little time with intensive and extensive training. They need to have proper socialization and obedience training to make them a great pet. They need to understand whom the master is or they will take charge. The Akita also needs to have socialization training in order to help them deal with their surrounding environment. They are less likely to have issues with other people and pets when they are exposed as puppies to training. These dogs are extremely loyal and wish for patience, fairness, and consistency during training. You will find these dogs make wonderful working dogs.

Airedale Terrier

Other Names: Waterside Terrier, Bingley Terrier
Country of Origin: England
Lifespan: 13 Years
Male Height: 23 Inches
Male Weight: 45 Pounds
Female Height: 22 Inches
Female Weight: 45 Pounds American Kennel Club Classification : Terrier GroupCanadian Kennel Club Classification : TerriersKennel Club (Great Britain) Classification : Terrier
Airedale Terrier Characteristics
The Airedale Terrier is called the "King of the Terriers" for good reason; he is a fearless, intelligent, and devoted breed of dog. The Airedale Terrier has excelled in many areas of human service, including as a war dog, police dog and a hunter of both small and large game. During World War I an Airedale Terrier won the Victoria Cross for gallantry in the field.
As is true of most of the other terriers, the Airedale Terrier originated from the British Isles. He is most likely descended from the now-extinct Black and Tan Terrier.
Airedale Terrier History and Breeder Information
The Airedale Terrier originated from the Aire Dale in Yorkshire, England. Commonly referred to as 'Airedales' these large dogs were originally bred to hunt otters, but their versatility allows them to meet most challenges. The Airedale's size ranges from 50 to 70 pounds. Airedale's have a "broken coat" that needs to be regularly groomed and maintained to keep its distinctive look. The term Stripping is referred to has the proper way to groom an Airedales coat. This involves using a small serrated edged knife to extract loose and old hair. The Airedale's broken coat is a wiry topcoat with a soft undercoat. Broken coats do not shed nearly as smooth coats. The breed standard coat colors accepted by the AKC are black saddle, with a tan head, ears and legs; or a dark grizzle saddle (black mixed with gray and white).
Usually Airedale Terrier puppies get their tail docked, but this is not an AKC requirement. They have black gums with the largest teeth of any dog in the terrier group. Airedale's teeth are quite sharp. Airedale's are primarily used for working, hunting, and retrieving. They have a stubborn, strong-willed temperament, complemented by a great sense of humor. They are reliable companions and very effective protective dogs. Hip dysplasia is the only inherited disease common to the Airedale and they are not anymore prone to it than most dogs. Being in the Terrier group, Airedales can be prone towards dermatitis. Airedale's usually live to be about 12 years old, however many have lived several years longer; some as long as 17 years old.
The Airedale Terrier was created by the British in the mid 19 century by mixing the White English, Irish, and Black and Tan Terriers together. This resulted in a very intelligent, hard working, versatile dog breed comfortable working on land and in the water. Airedale are truly an all-purpose dog. Airedale's played a crucial role during World War I by carrying messages to British and other allied soldiers located in the trenches often under horrible conditions. The bond created between humans and Airedale's during this period will forever be unbreakable. Airedale Terrier's make great pet dogs.
Airedale Terrier - The King of the Terriers
The Airedale Terrier is a medium 45 to 65 pound dog that usually reaches between 22" and 24". Known as the King of the Terriers, they are largest of the Terrier breeds recognized by the AKC. It is a compact little powerhouse that is all terrier when it comes to chasing little animals or appeasing its curiosity.
Airedale Terriers are typically tan on the ears, head, chest, undersides, legs, and sometimes on the shoulders. They are black or grizzle on the sides and upper parts of the body. Sometimes they have a red mixture on the black or white markings on the chest. Certain strains of the breed also have a small white patch on the chest. Their wiry, dense outer coat requires regular grooming.
If you are looking for a dog with plenty of stamina and energy, look no further. The Airedale Terrier is full of energy and needs daily exercise and play. Generally speaking, they do best with older well behaved children and are not ideal for homes with smaller pets as terriers have the tendency to chase small animals and vermin. They can do well with other dogs, especially if they are socialized from puppyhood. They are loyal and protective if their family. They love to learn and can be trained easily provided training is fun and not monotonous.
The breed dates itself back to 18th century England. The breed is a cross between an Otterhound and a Waterside Terrier. They were bred for hunting small game and were later used in big game hunting, police work and as an army dog in WWII. The Airedale Terrier is now considered more of a family pet than working dog. However, they do love to work and have tasks to do and still make good hunting and tracking dogs For a family that enjoys outdoors and exercise, the Airedale Terrier is an excellent choice. Although they can work with other pets and dogs, a one pet household seems more ideal for their needs unless they grow up with other family pets. The Airedale Terrier is a great pet for the family on the go.

Afghan Hound

Other Names: Tazi, Baluchi Hound
Country of Origin: Afghanistan
Lifespan: 12-14 Years
Male Height: 25.5-27.5 Inches
Male Weight: 60 Pounds
Female Height: 23.5-25.5 Inches
Female Weight: 50 Pounds
American Kennel Club Classification : Hound GroupCanadian Kennel Club Classification : HoundsKennel Club (Great Britain) Classification : Hound
Afghan Hound Characteristics
The Afghan is a desert dog that moved to the mountains. This shift from hot to cold necessitated a long fur coat. Selective breeding gave the Afghan his long coat and high-set hipbones that allow them to run easily over rugged terrain. They may look like "take-it-easy" movie stars, but they are fearless hunters.
Afghans and other sight-hounds were bred to be faster than the prey that they hunted. The Afghan's deep chest and light bones enables him to run for hours in pursuit of game. Afghans can accelerate very rapidly and are able to stop on a dime.
Know Your Afghan Hound
The Afghan Hound is a medium to large 55 to 65 pound dog that grows to between 24 and 29" in height. The Afghan Hound has long, silky hair and appears to be both elegant, reserved and agile. But, don't let the looks fool you. They can run, frolic and play with the best of the dogs.
Afghan Hounds comes in a variety of colors including Black, red, cream, fawn and brindle. Fawn, cream and brindle Afghans typically have a black mask on face or on fringe of ears. White markings are discouraged by the AKC. In contrast to the long hair on its body, the Afghan Hound as a long, thin tail that curls on the end and is covered with short hair. Because of their long, thick hair, the Afghan Hound requires regular grooming.
They are very energetic and affectionate dogs. They get along with children, other dogs and pets, especially those that they know from puppyhood. They do not always get along with cats, especially those that they aren't familiar with. Some Afghan Hounds can be more on the timid or high strung side, so they are recommended more for older or well behaved children. The Afghan Hound is an ideal dog for homes where they will get plenty of exercise, outside play and where there is ample room to roam and explore.
The breed can date itself back over 5000 years. It is native to Afghanistan. It is a sight hound and was originally used for herding, hunting and as a watchdog. Due to its quick speed, it made an excellent hunting animal to pursue game. It only reached Europe and the United States in the 1900s because its exportation was prohibited. The Afghan Hound is now used mainly as companion, watchdog and hunting dog.
This dog with a dignified air is a loyal and faithful companion. They make good watchdogs and a great companion for an active family that enjoys exercise and play. If you choose an Afghan then plan on a lifetime of love and enjoyment from your new pet.
Is An Afghan Hound Puppy The Right Choice For Me And My family?
The Afghan hound can be an great choice for you and your family, as long as you do not have very young children. Even older children need to learn to respect the hound and leave it alone when it has had enough. You need to have a place where this dog can run or gallop full out for as long as a half hour a day. You must be willing to spend serious time grooming his coat. Because of his aloofness, he may decide to ignore your commands so you must also be willing to spend a great deal of training time with him. Never leave very young children alone with any dog.
The Afghan hound is all about being an aristocrat. His appearance is one of aloofness and dignity. They are beautiful with a long silky topcoat and the tail has a signature ring curl at the end.
Temperament. His general temperament is dignified but happy and even clownish. He is a bit independent and sometimes has a personalty somewhat like a cat. Afghans need to be socialized and can be wary of strangers. They either like someone or they do not.
Approximate Adult Size. Males can weigh in at 60 pounds and stand 27 inches at the withers (highest point of the shoulders) and females can weigh 50 pounds and stand 25 inches high at the withers.
Ideal Environment. The ideal environment for this dog is a properly fenced, spacious yard or acreage. He loves to run. He does prefer to spend time with his master and would like to sleep indoors. The enclosed area should be kept trimmed and be free of shrubs and weeds that like to hitch a ride on fur. This hound is prone to getting his hair tangled.
Special Health Considerations. The Afghan Hound is a healthy breed. Cancer and allergies are his main problem. They have low body fat levels and may be sensitive to anesthesia. Additional genetic problems may be dysplasia, juvenile cataracts, enzyme deficiencies and hypothyroidism.
Grooming. The Hound should not be clipped or trimmed much, especially for showing. His coat is long and fine so he needs plenty of attention. Did I say plenty of attention? I roomed with an Afghan and his owner and the Afghan always liked me. I remember when my room mate spent several hours washing and grooming his pet, getting every single burr out because he wanted his dog to look great and make a good impression on an important date he had that evening. Well, somehow the afghan managed to get out and do his run and when he got back, his coat was so trashed, I though that my roommate was going to cry. It takes plenty of work to keep them looking like they do in the breed photos. They shed in the spring and fall.
Life Span. The life span is fairly long, being approximately 14 years.
History. The Afghan Hound comes from Afghanistan where it was bred to hunt gazelles, foxes and wolves. DNA testing reveals that this dog is from one of the most ancient dog breeds. The original name of this dog is a Tazi. There is a similar breed in Russia called Tasy and they are related.
Special Good Points. The aristocrat of dogs. Beautiful to watch and have. Relatively Healthy. Patient, calm, and has common dog sense.
Special Bad Points. Can Tend to be shy. Can tend to be aloof. Low pain tolerance, a bit of a baby. Can be hard to train, may ignore commands. They are fast and can steal food and objects. Difficult to keep off of the couch. They think that they own the furniture. Can be difficult to housetrain.
The Afghan Hound Breed. Origins, Information and History of this Extravagant Breed
Origin: The Afghan Hound is a very ancient breed. This dog has been mentioned several times in the Egyptian papyruses as well as pictured in caves of Northern Afghanistan more than 4,000 years ago. This beautiful sighthound was used as a shepherd and hunter for many centuries, hunting such game as deer, wild boars, goats, and even wolves. They were also used by shepherds as watchdogs and herders due to their fast and agile running.
History: The Afghan was discovered in the west in the regions of Afghanistan during the 19th century. These dogs were later sent to England in the later part of the century. Some say that Afghan Hounds served as guard dogs and herd dogs, which are within the capabilities of the breed as we know it. The major role of these dogs, however, was undoubtedly that of hunting. The Afghanistan kings would breed a kennel of these hounds for many generations for these purposes alone.
The real start of the breed in the US started with the first Ghazni imports in 1931, when Zeppo Marx and his wife brought from England a bitch, Asra of Ghazni, and a dog, Westmill Omar. Asra and Omar were later acquired by Q. A. Shaw McKeans Prides Hill kennels in Massachusetts. Mr. McKean soon added a young English champion, Badshah of Ainsdart. These three - Asra, Omar and Badshah - formed the cornerstone of the breed in America.
Summary: This dog has become a luxurious pet in America and Europe due its aristocratic look. The Afghan Hound is prized and loved by many of their owners and family members. With its distinctive personality and long coat that requires regular care and maintenance, it's not the breed for wanna-be dog owners, but when the match between owner and this hound is right, there is no other dog that can equal the Afghan hound as a great and welcome addition to any family.
Aristocratic, but very sweet, loyal, affectionate and emotional, with a low dominance level. The Afghan Hound has been described as "a king of dogs." Majestic, elegant, noble and courageous, suspicious of, but not hostile to, strangers. Although resilient, they will pine if they are deprived of attention. They will do best with more mature, considerate children. At one time, the breed had a reputation for being untrustworthy, but has now been replaced by a character that, while still energetic, is said to be more agreeable to training and discipline, as they can be disobedient if allowed to be so. This breed can be problematic to housebreak.
Afghan Hound - Centuries of Perfection
The Afghan Hound dates back more then 4,000 years. It has always been coveted, though only in the more recent years for its graceful appearance. Today, the Afghan Hound is recognized by most canine associations and is a popular pet around the world.
A native of the Sinai region, the breed was carefully guarded over many centuries and no one was allowed to take any Afghan Hound out of the area. With transportation so carefully guarded, it was only the tales of travellers who alerted the rest of the world to the beauty and grace of this dog until a century or so ago. It's quickly become a popular breed for the show ring. Watching those show dogs, the most notable traits are the long, silky hair and the agile body, but there's a history of courage behind this breed.
The Afghan Hound was originally used in two major capacities - hunting and herding. The dog's alert nature and protectiveness made it ideal as a guard dog for herds of domesticated animals. This hound also has an incredible nose and has been used to hunt some very large, fierce animals. Not only have they helped hunt deer, wild goats and similar herd animals, they've also been used for hunting snow leopards and wolves.
The slender neck supports a slim head, giving the Afghan Hound a very regal bearing that makes it stand out from some other hounds. The coat tends to be very thick. Their ancestors needed those heavy coats as protection against the elements and the breed of today can typically withstand cool temperatures without problem. Afghans may be any color, though sand, red and black seem to be the more common. For show purposes, only white is not acceptable and even white marking will count off in the show ring.
These dogs are true "people dogs." They love to be with their owners and will grieve greatly if left alone for long periods of time. Not only that, but some of these dogs also tend to act sad if their favorite person or people are no longer around.
Ages ago, the Afghan had a reputation for being somewhat sneaky or unreliable. Selective breeding seems to have all but eliminated that trait, though this breed still seems to thrive in a sound, stable atmosphere.
The Afghan Hound typically weighs in at somewhere around 50 to 60 pounds. They also tend to live slightly longer than most larger dogs with averages estimated around 12 to 14 years. As a rule, these dogs are very sensitive to pain. They may not readily recover from even minor injuries without proper care, especially if those injuries limit activity.
The Afghan Hound loves the outdoors, though they're gentle enough to adapt to living indoors, provided they get ample exercise. They remain easily trained for hunting and herding, though most people who seek these dogs are doing so because of the aristocratic bearing and elegance - traits that make them show dogs and pets, not working dogs.
Afghan Hound - Dog Breed Profile
Key Facts:Size: Medium - largeHeight: 63 - 74 cm (25 - 29 inches)Weight: 23 - 33 kg (51 - 66 lb)Life Span: 14 yearsGrooming: Frequent & thoroughExercise: EssentialFeeding: MediumTemperament: Gentle yet wary of strangersCountry of Origin: Afghanistan/EnglandAKC Group: HoundOther Names: Tazi, Baluchi Hound
Temperament:The Afghan Hound appears dignified and aloof but can also be fun loving. Afghan Hounds are gentle dogs that are affectionate towards the family but wary of strangers. Training can be difficult despite their high level of intelligence. Afghan Hounds are not always compliant and tend to ignore human instructions if they see no good reason for an order. Afghan Hounds naturally pursue anything that runs and are almost impossible to recall once they're on the chase. They will kill most things they catch and therefore should not be kept with other household pets such as cats.
Grooming:Afghan Hounds require regular and thorough grooming at least once a week with a good pin brush. This is best done by lifting the hair up so each stroke begins from the root of the hair and continues downward. Afghan Hounds do not shed hair like most other breeds.
Exercise:Afghan Hounds are athletic and require a lot of exercise to cope with their restless energy. Because of their hunting and chasing instincts, they need to be kept on a lead.
Feeding:Afghan Hounds are not greedy eaters and may even be somewhat picky if allowed to have their own way.
History:The sighthound family dates back to between 4000 BC and 3000 BC, with their name derived from Afghanistan. It has been suggested that the longer coated Tibetan Terrier (from adjacent Tibet) played a part in making the Afghan Hound, the longest coated member of the sighthound family. The Afghan people put their dogs to many uses from guarding to hunting and also using their hair for weaving.
Physical Characteristics:General Appearance: Very tall, impressive and elegant.Color: All colors. The most common are red through to shades of beige, often with a darker mask.Coat: Long silky hair, with short hair around the face and back saddle.Tail: Not too short and ends in a ring.Ears: Long, set low and well back. They are covered with long silky hair.Body: Deep chest, prominent hip bones and muscular back of moderate length.
Additional Comments:Elegance is the hallmark of this breed - a long chiselled head carried high on a long neck is an essential characteristic. In proportion to it's size, the Afghan Hound's body is relatively light.

Affenpinscher

Other Names: Monkey Dog
Country of Origin: Germany
Lifespan: 14-15 Years
Male Height: 9-11.5 Inches
Inches Male Weight: 7-9 Pounds
Female Height: 9-11.5 Inches
Female Weight: 7-9 PoundsAmerican Kennel Club Classification : Toy GroupCanadian Kennel Club Classification : ToysKennel Club (Great Britain) Classification : Toy
Affenpinscher Characteristics
The Affenpinscher is one little dog that takes himself quite seriously, and demands respect. The French referred to the Affenpinscher as "mustachioed little devils". The Affenpinscher originated in the 1600's and may be an ancestor of the Brussels Griffon and the Miniature Schnauzer.
Affenpinscher Dog Breed
The Affenpinscher dog is a relatively small dog weighing 7-9 pounds. They reach a height between 9 to 11.5 inches, with a shaggy gray, black, silver, or black and tan coat. While their hair is not the cuddliest, you will find they are a very active dog breed. This type of dog is low maintenance when it comes to grooming, as they don't tend to shed their hair.
The Affenpinscher breed originated in Germany in the 16th century. They are considered one of the most amiable companions for humans. They tend to have a strong playful spirit, while being great at hunting rats and mice. You can consider their character to be balanced and sturdy. In other words they will have pretty much the same behavioral characteristics throughout their lives and be a pleasure. They are also very agile, inquisitive, and quick- witted.
You will find that this dog breed is great for a family. They tend to play well with younger children as well as be aware of the delicate nature of the child. They will want to play, amuse, and be affectionate with the entire family. This will lead us into the care of the Affenpinscher. While they require minimal grooming you will find they do need a lot of attention. They tend to have a lot of energy so taking the dog out for long walks, playing with them often, and not leaving them along too much is going to be the best care you can give them. When you are grooming your Affenpinscher you will need to pay close attention to the eyes. They tend to have little hairs that will grow near the eyes causing irritation or even infections if left for too long.
This dog breed is one of the hardest to house train despite the wonderful pet they do make. They are extremely active and therefore they don't want to pay attention to training and lessons. When training the dog you need to use the crate method. In other words they need to understand what the crate means, and that until they are house trained to go outside or let the owner know when they need to go they will be in the crate while you are away. You need to be extremely authoritarian with the Affenpinscher with firmness and consistency. While they are quick to learn they often don't like to sit still for the lessons as they become bored. If you are trying to train the dog to do tricks it must be something that stimulates them.
You will also find that this particular breed of dog is a fairly good watchdog. While they are certainly not the best they do tend to let you know when a person is arriving and will stand guard. With their heightened sense of play you will find that this dog also loves to climb and bark. You will need to train them when it is appropriate to bark and when it is not. You will also have to make sure your backyard is large enough and set up with a high fence to keep them contained. When you are considering further dog care keep in mind that they are extremely active. They need to have a place they can run and expend energy. This means during the day while you are at work and your children are in school you probably need to leave the dog outside in the yard. Make sure that they will not be able to dig themselves out or climb over the fence. It is really best to have a dog runner set up so they are chained, but have the freedom to explore the yard and stay in the shade.
Grooming the Affenpinscher
The Affenpinscher belongs to the terrier family and is considered a toy breed. It used to be raised to be a hunter of vermin, but in the 1800 to 1900s, it was bred to its now much smaller size and was became a companion dog instead.
The Affenpinscher has also acquired the nickname "monkey dog" and is sometimes called the Monkey Pinscher. In fact, Affenpinscher means "Monkey Terrier" in the German language. This nickname is due to the dog's monkey-like facial expressions. What gives this breed its monkey-like appearance is the hair that grows longer around the head, eyebrows, and jaw. An Affenpinscher's coat also grows about an inch long in the neck area, chest, and legs while its tail and posterior may have shorter hair. Their coat is rough, wiry, and thick. The coat can be colored red, tan, or dark grey, but black is the most preferred color by Affenpinscher owners and breeders.
An Affenpinscher with an initially well-groomed coat does not require that much further grooming attention. Although it may have a thick wiry coat, an Affenpinscher sheds much less hair than other hairy dogs. Another great thing about grooming an Affenpinscher is that the shaggy, unkempt appearance is the look that you should be going for. Not that hard to do considering Affenpinschers naturally look scruffy and untidy. This breed does not need to be made to look overly neat. Also, an Affenpinscher that is groomed with its monkey-like features enhanced is prized among this breed.
Proper care of an Affenpinscher's coat and appearance begins with its environment. Extreme temperatures, especially places with very warm weather, can ruin their thick coats. Train an Affenpinscher to be used to grooming while it is still a puppy so that it thinks of grooming time as something akin to playtime. Establish yourself as the alpha leader so that the dog will be submissive to you. Thus making the grooming session much easier for the both of you.
Grooming an Affenpinscher may not take much, but weekly maintenance of the coat is a must. Its thick wiry coat is prone to matting, tangling, and knotting. Brush its coat regularly to get rid of accumulated debris and hair that has been shed. Use a fine-toothed comb for the hair around its face and you can use a medium-toothed comb or brush for the rest of the body. Clipping an Affenpinscher's coat is not recommended as it can ruin its much valued shaggy appearance and may take years to grow back. Avoid clipping as much as possible, but you may pluck out the dead hairs.
Free the eye and ear area of overgrown hairs that may irritate the Affenpinscher. Trim excess hair with straight or thinning scissors. Also include regular teeth brushing and nail clipping in the grooming schedule. Use mild dog shampoos when bathing an Affenpinscher. Don't bathe it to often as their skin and coat may become dry and irritated.
A well-groomed Affenpinscher is one that looks like its natural shaggy self. Preserve and maintain this look so that you and your Affenpinscher can reap the benefits of proper grooming.
The Affenpinscher Breed Standard
The general appearance of the Affenpinscher is a balanced, wiry-haired terrier-like toy dog. The Affenpinscher is sturdy and compact with medium bone structure. The preferred height at the withers is 9 ½" to 11 1/2". He has a square-like appearance.
The head is in proportion to the body, carried confidently with a monkey-like facial expression. The Affenpinscher has eyes that are round, dark, brilliant and of medium size in proportion to the head. The eyes are not bulging or protruding. Eye rims are black. The ears are cropped to a point, set high and standing erect, or natural, standing erect, semi-erect or dropped. All these types of ears are acceptable in the breed standard as long as the monkey-like expression is maintained. The skull is round and domed, not coarse. The stop is well-defined. The Muzzle is short and narrows slightly to a blunt nose. The nose is black, neither turned up nor down. The lips are black with a prominent lower lip. The bite is slightly undershot. Level bites are only acceptable if the monkey-like expression is maintained. An overshot bite is severely penalized.
The Affenpinscher's neck is short and straight. The top line is straight and level. The chest is moderately broad and deep. The back is short and level with a strong loin. The tail may be docked or natural. A docked tail is between 1" and 2" long set high an carried erect. The natural tail is set high and carried gently curved up over the back while moving.
The Affenpinscher's shoulders are moderately laid back. The length of the shoulder blade and the upper arm are about equal. Elbows are close to the body. Front legs of the Affenpinscher are straight when viewed from any direction. Dewclaws are generally removed. The feet of the Affenpinscher are small, round, compact and with black pads and nails.
The coat of the Affenpinscher is dense, rough, harsh and about 1" in length on the shoulders and body. The hair may be shorter on the rear and tail. The mature Affenpinscher has a mane or cape of strong hair which blends into the back coat at the withers area. To emphasize the monkey-like expression of the Affenpinscher the longer hair on the head, eyebrows and beard stands off and frames the face. The Affenpinscher's coat needs little grooming to maintain a neat and shaggy appearance.
The Affenpinscher is seen in colors of black, gray, silver, red, black and tan or beige. The blacks may have a rusty cast or a few white or silver hairs mixed with the black. The reds vary from brownish red to an orange tan. Beige has black, brown and/or white hairs mixed with red. Some Affenpinschers may have black masks or a small white spot on the chest. Large white patches are undesirable.
The gait of the Affenpinscher should be light, free, sound, balanced and confident. The Affenpinscher's signature walk is that of comic seriousness.The personality of the Affenpinscher should be alert, inquisitive, loyal and affectionate toward owner and friends. The Affenpinscher is generally quiet, but can become extremely excited when threatened or attacked and is not afraid toward any aggressor.
The Affenpinscher's Early Days In His New Home
The Affenpinscher develops a very strong attachment to his owner or owners. How the Affenpinscher puppy develops depends a great deal upon the care he receives as a young puppy. One of the first things you should do for your new Affenpinscher puppy is make him feel secure and comfortable with his new family.
Your breeder probably provided you with a health record showing all immunization vaccinations given to the Affenpinscher puppy prior to the sale. Some states such as California, Florida and Texas require breeders to provide a veterinarian proof of health on sale of a dog.
As soon as possible after bringing your new Affenpinscher puppy home you should take him to be examined by a veterinarian and finish the series of shots began by the breeder. These shots usually consist of vaccines for infectious hepatitis, distemper, leptospirosis, paraintiuenza and parvovirus. The frequency and combination of vaccines differs from vet to vet. If the Affenpinscher is to be entered into shows the vet may want to give him immunization against bordatella (kennel cough) and corona. Follow the advice of your own personal veterinarian.
Take a stool sample with you for the first visit. If you live in a climate where heartworm is a concern ask your vet about heartworm preventative. Most often the monthly heartworm preventative will also prevent other parasite infestations.
Once you have established care with a trusted veterinarian and your Affenpinscher puppy seems content in his new home work on a regular schedule of diet, housebreaking and other rules of your own particular household. Allow the Affenpinscher puppy to settle in properly. Do not make any sudden changes in his diet. If you do not want to feed what the breeder fed your Affenpinscher puppy make changes gradually. Sudden changes in diet sometimes results in diarrhea or the Affenpinscher puppy may refuse to eat the new food.
If you choose to show your Affenpinscher with cropped ears you should have the cropping performed by a qualified veterinarian or an individual recommended by your breeder. The ears are usually cropped when the Affenpinscher is anywhere from eight weeks to four or five months.
Crate training is recommended for Affenpinscher puppies. You will need to purchase a small airline kennel or a small housebreaking crate. Provide your Affenpinscher puppy with soft clean bedding in the crate and fresh drinking water preferably from a water bottle. Training you Affenpinscher puppy should start early. Do not feel that crating your Affenpinscher puppy is cruel. Dogs by nature are den animals and many find refuge in their crates, a special place of their own to rest and sleep. An Affenpinscher puppy that has been crated will travel easier and more happily.
Affenpinscher - Dog Breed Profile
Key FactsSize: SmallHeight: 24 - 28cm (9.5 - 11 inches)Weight: 3 - 4kg (6.5 - 9 lb)Life Span: 15 yearsGrooming: EasyExercise: ModerateFeeding: UndemandingTemperament: Self-confident & livelyCountry of Origin: GermanyAKC Group: ToyOther Names: Monkey Dog
TemperamentThe Affenpinscher is intelligent, playful, curious, alert and mischievous. Affenpinschers are affectionate companions and family pets. They can be quite fearless towards aggressors and make excellent watchdogs. Their intelligence makes them easy to train, once they learn who is boss, however if Affenpinschers are spoilt, then their owners may find their home run by a little canine dictator. They get on well with children and other household pets, however most Affenpinschers will refuse unknown visitors entry into the home.
GroomingRelatively easy, with brushing required once or twice per week to remove dead hair and keep it free of knots. No trimming required and Affenpinscher's have minimal moulting.
ExerciseModerate exercise is required, but Affenpinschers can tolerate reasonably long distances.
HistoryAffenpinschers originated in Germany several centuries ago and pictures of them can be seen depicted in the paintings of the early Dutch masters. The evolution of this breed may have come about with the crossbreeding of Miniature Pinschers to the local wire coated terriers. It has been broadly accepted that the Affenpinscher is the progenitor of both smooth and rough coated varieties of the toy Griffin.
Physical CharacteristicsGeneral Appearance: Small and stocky with a trotting gait.Colour: Black (or black with lighter shadings)Coat: Wirehaired and rough and harsh in texture. Shaggy around the face with a wreath-like circle of hair framing the face giving a monkey-like appearance.Tail: Usually docked short and carried high.Ears: Either upright or dropped.Body: Square with a deep, barrel shaped chest. Short, straight back.