Breed of the Month--Borzoi

Borzoi:

Color:  Any color or combination
Height:  Males:  28-33.5 inches/  Females:  26-30.5 inches
Weight:  Males:  75-105 pounds/  Females:  55-85 pounds
Life Span:  11-14 years

Breed Health Concerns:  Hip dysplasia, bloat, progressive retinal atrophy (PRA), and osteochondritis dissecans (OCD).

Coat:  Silky, long coat.  Can be curly, wavy, or flat.  Neck has a curl, large frill.
Country of Origin:  Russia


Visit the American Kennel Club for breed standards and more information.

The Borzoi has been used for coursing wolves since the early 1600s in Russia. 
 {Coursing:  the sport of hunting game animals such as hares with greyhounds using sight rather than scent.}
The Borzoi is a result of attempts to combine durability with speed.  Arabian hunters were crossed with native coated breeds to be able to withstand the cold Russian weather.  The exotic look of the Borzoi made them sought-after by nobles.  Sadly the breed was almost irradiated during the Russian Revolution, but the breed survived and has flourished since.

The Borzoi has an independant nature, but is extremely affectionate and loyal.  This dignified dog is incredible calm and cat-like.  He enjoys a calm atmosphere and does not easily tolerate roughhousing.

Exercise:
Although the Borzoi can reach high speeds, he does not require a great deal of exercise.  Daily walks or running around an enclosed yard will keep him happy.  Due to his independent nature and love of running, he should never be off leash around dangerous traffic and busy streets.

Grooming:
His coat should be brushed every few days.  The Borzoi is a seasonal shedder and will require extra brushing during these times.  The hair between this dog's toes must be kept short and his face should be cleared with a soft, damp cloth.

Training:
When training a Borzoi, consistency and patience are key.  Bred to be independent and with a high prey and chase drive, basic manners training can sometimes be a challenge.  Positive reinforcement training with a calm disposition and lots of patience is a must.

Breed of the Month--Pekingese

Pekingese:

Color:  All colors and markings, may have black mask but no albino or liver
Height:  6-9 inches
Weight:  Up to 12 pounds
Life Span:  10-12 years

Breed Health Concerns:  Breathing problems, patellar lunation, trichiasis, degenerative heart valve disease, and ulcerative keratitis.

Coat:  Double coat.  Soft undercoat with coarse, straight, long outercoat.  Mane may have some feathering.
Country of Origin:  China

Visit the American Kennel Club for breed standards and more information.

In ancient times when people were much more superstitious, the lion-like look of these dogs and the idols that represented them, the "Foo Dog," were supposed to frighten away evil spirits.  The Pekingese was known by many names including:  Sun Dog, Lion Dog, and Sleeve Dog.  Anyone who was not of noble birth was not allowed to own a Pekingese, and stealing one was punishable by death.  These dogs knew only pampered lives filled with gentle care.

In 1860 Peking was invaded and taken by the British.  The Imperial family gave instructions for all Pekingese to be destroyed so they would not fall into enemy hands.  However, four Pekingese were found guarding the Emperor's aunt who had taken her own life.  These dogs were returned to England and there bloodlines were continued with other Pekingese found in China.

The characteristics of the Pekingese are quite distinctive.  The breed has a shortened muzzle and a flat face.  The Pekingese eyes can be prone to injury, and he also has a flat and wide head and short neck.  Pekingese are compact and fearless but never aggressive. The sole purpose of the life of the Pekingese is to comfort his companion.  This breed is quite charming but can become jealous of other pets or children.

Exercise:  
The Pekingese does need a regular daily walks, but because of his short muzzle (which makes him wheeze and snore) excessive exercise is not recommended.  The breed does enjoy meeting new people and being out and about.

Grooming:  
The coat of the Pekingese requires daily maintenance.  Daily brushing and combing is required, with extra attention to be paid to keeping his hind quarters clean and free from caked debris.  The feet must also be brushed.  A cloth around the face must be used to keep it clean and free from debris and possible infections.

Training:  
Bred to be a lap dog, many refer to the breed as "stubborn" when it comes to training, however basic manners are still important.  This breed should be well socialized from puppyhood.  

Breed of the Month--Bloodhound

Bloodhound:

Color:  Red, Black and tan, liver and tan, may have white markings.
Height:  Males:  25-27 inches/  Females:  23-25 inches
Weight:  Males:  90-119 pounds/  Females:  79-106 pounds
Life Span:  10-12 years

Breed Health Concerns:  Ear infections, hip dysplasia, bloat, and entropion.

Coat:  Weatherproof close lying, smooth, short coat.
Country of Origin:  Belgium

Visit the American Kennel Club for breed standards and more information.


The Bloodhound was refined from ancient dogs called Segusius in the monastery of St. Hubert in Belgium.  These dogs had persistent, exquisite noses that they used to cold trail track game such as big cats, deer, and wolves.  These St. Hubert Hounds crossed the Channel when the Normans conquered England in 1066.  Then in England, these St. Hubert Hounds were crossed with Southern Hounds and Talbot Hounds to create the current breed the Bloodhound.  His name came about because he was used exclusively by the nobility, not from his ability to track a blood trail.

The Bloodhound is easily recognizable with its long drooping ears and facial wrinkles.  The  Bloodhound is kind and gentle and gets along with everyone. Bred to be a pack animal and persistent, the Bloodhound should be kept in an enclosed yard so his nose does not get him into trouble.

Exercise:  
The Bloodhound does not need a large amount of exercise, but does require regular daily walks.  Taking him to a large enclosure or through a park on a long leash where the Bloodhound can sniff and track will make him happiest.

Grooming:  
The coat of the Bloodhound is easy to maintain and requires only regular bathing and brushing.  However the wrinkles on the dogs face and long drooping ears of the dog require extra attention.  Be sure to keep them clean and dry.

Training:  
To train a Bloodhound takes patience and consistency.  The Bloodhound was bred to be an independent thinker and requires extra incentive to do basic obedience tasks, however the breed will thrive if asked to track a trail.  The best way to train any breed is to work with their instincts.  This is especially true of the Bloodhound.

Breed of the Month--Chow Chow

Chow Chow

Color:  Solid color, cream, fawn, blue, red, black.
Height:  Males:  18-22 inches/  Females:  17-20 inches
Weight:  45-70 pounds
Life Span:  13-15 year

Breed Health Concerns:  Hip dysplasia, thyroid problems, elbow dysplasia, ectropion, patellar lunation, and entropion.

Coat:  Two Types:  Rough Coat has dense, straight autocrat with a thick, wooly, soft undercoat.  Smooth Coat has dense, hard, smooth autocrat with definite undercoat.
Country of Origin:  China.

Visit the American Kennel Club for breed standards and more information.


The Chow Chow can be traced to 11th century BCE.  Sculptures and pottery from 150 BCE depict Chow-like dogs hunting.  In China, the Chow Chow was considered a delicacy.  Eating the flesh of the dog was (and still is) common.  For many centuries the Chow Chow was not seen outside of China.  Around 1780, sailors smuggled the breed out of the country.  Their popularity quickly increased due to the dog's unique look and distinguishing features including its blue-black tongue, gums, and lips.  

The Chow Chow is generally aloof with strangers but will typically bong strongly to one person.  It is said that the Chow will not obey his master, but would be ready and willing to die for him.  

Exercise:  
Although the Chow Chow does not need a ton of exercise, daily regular walks are important to keep the breed in good shape.

Grooming:  
Extra care must be taken to keep the flaps around the dog's face clean, dry, and free from dirt and debris.  Both coat types of the Chow Chow need regular brushing with a steel comb.  The fur around the Chow Chow's ears is thick and may trap dirt and also must be kept clean.

Training:  

The Chow Chow is naturally protective and aloof and must be properly socialized from puppyhood.  The Chow Chow does not like to be pushed, and requires a trainer who is both firm and fair.  Using positive reinforcement training methods for this breed is a must.

Breed of the Month--Great Dane

Great Dane

Color:  Black, blue, brindle, fawn, mantle, harlequin

Height:  Males:  30 inches/  Females:  28 inches

Weight:  Males:  119 lbs/ Females:  101.5 lbs

Life Span:  7-10 years

Breed Health Concerns:  Hip dysplasia, cardiomyopathy, bloat, cervical vertebral instability, osteosarcoma, and lymphoma.

Coat:  Thick, short, and glossy

Country of Origin:  Germany

Visit the American Kennel Club for breed standards and more information.

The origins of this breed are not exactly known, but believed to have been descended from a type of mastiff and possibly Irish Wolfhound.  Danes originally served as boar hunters, war dogs, and bull baiters.  The Germans refined the breed and declared it the national dog of Germany in 1876.

Today the Great Dane is more of a lover than a fighter.  The Dane retains a powerful protective instance for his family, but is very playful, affectionate, and patient.  The Dane enjoys children, but sometimes his size can be dangerous when leaning affectionately towards small children.  Great Dane's are very people oriented.

Exercise:  

Although the Great Dane is quite large, he does not require a lot of exercise.  The Dane is happy with the normal walk twice per day.  The Great Dane is happy indoors and enjoys just hanging out with his family.  Although the Dane does not require a lot of physical exercise, it is important to keep him mentally stimulated.  Without regular mental and physical stimulation, the Dane can become quite destructive.

Grooming:  

The Great Dane is an average shedder, and will require regular brushing, but the short coat is easy to care for.

Training:  

The Great Dane can be somewhat of a challenge to train.  The Dane is intelligent, but was bred to be an independent thinker.  Holding the Dane's attention requires creativity and high rewards in training.  Socialization is very important to start as a young puppy with Great Danes.

One of our dog pack, Caravaggio, is part Great Dane.

You can definitely see this breed in his size, but also his temperament.

Although Caravaggio is well trained (as all my pack is),

he does have an independent mind and can become easily distracted.

With the proper training however, this is easily managed.

Great Dane's are amazingly gentle, loving dogs,

and we very much enjoy having one in our pack.

Our Great Dane/ German Shepherd/ Lab mix Caravaggio (right)

helping puppy Dora learn some leash skills.

Breed of the Month--Labrador Retriever

Labrador Retriever

Colors:  Black, yellow, chocolate
Height:  Males: 22-24.5 inches/  Females:  21.5-23.5 inches
Weight:  Males:  60-80 lbs/  Females:  55-70 lbs
Life span:  10-14 years

Breed health concerns:  hip dysplasia, retinal dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, hereditary myopathy, and progressive retinal atrophy.

Coat:  Double coat with a dense, short, straight outer coat and a water-resistant, soft undercoat.
Country of Origin:  England

Visit the American Kennel Club for breed standards and more information.

This breed became very popular in the 1800s.  The English marveled at this dog's abilities:  able to work in icy waters and retrieve whatever necessary, these dogs were noted for their weather resistance and responsiveness.  The first actual kennel for Labradors was founded by the second Earl of Marlesbury, and by the late 1800s the English had begun using these dogs to develop the Flat-Coat Retriever and the breed known today as the Labrador Retriever.

Today in both the United States and England, the Labrador Retriever has become a very popular dog.  Today there are considered to be two types of Labs:  the show type and the field type.  The show type is shorter and stockier, whereas the field type is more energetic and skinnier.

Personality:
The Labrador Retriever is willing to please, even-tempered, intelligent, affectionate, and sensible.  Labs seem to understand that children need to be treated with an extra gentle touch, but are willing to play with anyone.  Labs can be kept happy for hours with a tennis ball or toy, and are generally exceptional swimmers.  These dogs are a large breed dog.  Labs and Lab-mixes are one of the most popular breeds in the United States.

Exercise:
Labrador Retrievers are very high energy dogs and must get plenty of regular exercise.  A 10 minute walk around the block will most definitely NOT keep this breed happy.  The Lab must get several hours of mentally stimulating exercise daily.

Grooming:
Labs must be brushed frequently; they are considered moderate to heavy shedders.  With this breeds love of swimming, it is important to keep the dog's ears clean and dry to help prevent infection.

Training:
The Lab is one of the most highly trainable breeds.  Labs love to please and are attentive to work for their owners.  Training ability along with an excellent temperament makes this breed highly popular is the use of service dogs, police dogs, and drug-detection dogs.  Labs make excellent hunting dogs with their keen sense of smell.  Many Labs are also big stars in the dog show world and arenas of agility, tracking, flyball, and obedience.  This breed tends to love to do anything his owner is willing to participate in.

Two of our three dogs are Lab mixes.  Both love to play fetch and run.  They are high-energy dogs but as stated above, are exceptionally trainable.  As long as our dogs get their regular exercise, they are happy and content.

Athena with Caravaggio (a Great Dane, German Shepherd, Lab mix)

& Nekita (a Springer Spaniel, Lab mix).

Breed of the Month--Catahoula Leopard Dog

Catahoula Leopard Dog

Color:  All coat colors and patterns.  White trim, tan markings, yellow, yellow merle, white merle, red, red merle, chocolate, brindle, blue, blue merle, black.
Height:  Males: 24 inches/  Females:  22 inches
Weight:  50-95 pounds
Life Span:  12-14 years

Breed Health Concerns:  Eye problems, congenital deafness, and hip dysplasia.

Coat:  Single coat.  Short to medium length with smooth to coarse texture.  Coat lies flat and close to the body.
Country of Origin:  United States.

Visit the American Kennel Club for breed standards and more information.


The name for this breed comes from the Parish of Catahoula, meaning "beautiful clear water," in northeastern Louisiana.  The ancestors of the breed are not known, but it is thought to be descended in some part from mastiff-type dogs brought by Spanish explorers to the Americas.  It is known that in 1686, during his explorations, Henri de Tonti spoke of seeing dogs with "mottled spots" and "white eyes."  It is thought that European shepherd dogs were crossed with these mastiff-types to form the Catahoula Leopard Dog.

Named for a swampy area in Louisiana, the Catahoula Leopard Dog was used to assist people in trapping, fishing, and running wild cattle and hogs back into the woods.  These are dangerous jobs, and the assertive, protective, independent nature of the Catahoula Leopard Dog made him the perfect helper.  

Known also as the "Catahoula Hog Dog," and referred to as a "walking sledgehammer," the Catahoula Leopard Dog was named the official state dog of Louisiana in 1979.  The breed is affectionate with those he known well but can be tentative around strangers.  Although a hard working breed, he is personable and playful when he becomes comfortable around people.


Exercise:
As a hard working breed, the Catahoula Leopard Dog requires plenty of exercise and daily vigorous walks.  This breed is high energy and will become destructive without regular physical and mental activity.  The Catahoula excels at sports like herding and agility.

Grooming:
Regular brushing will keep the coat at its best.  The undercoat will shed continuously and even more so when he is uncomfortable or anxious.

Training:
Training for the Catahoula must involve techniques that engage his intellect and energy.  The Catahoula is quick and smart, making him a very capable learner.  This breed does have a very independent nature however, and his trainer must always remember to keep alert to hold the dog's attention.

I have met a few Catahoulas & Catahoula mixes in my day, and I will say that the one thing they all have in common (other than beautiful coats and eyes) is that they are all very high energy.  This is most definitely not a dog for someone who is not highly active.  Catahoulas need lots and lots of daily vigorous exercise to stay happy and healthy.  This breed is a working dog and needs to be given a regular outlet for his excessive energy.

Catahoula mix pup Mocha (middle) 

making friends at her first dog training class.

Breed of the Month--German Shepherd

German Shepherd Dog

Color:  Black, reddish-tan, tan, gold to light gray markings, solid black, solid gray,
(white is not accepted by the AKC)
Height:  Males:  23.5-26 inches/  Females:  21.5-24 inches
Weight:  Males:  66-88 lbs/  Females:  48.5-70.5 lbs
Life Span:  10-14 years

Breed health concerns:  Allergies, bloat, elbow dysplasia, Cushing's syndrome, epilepsy, glycogen storage disease, hip dysplasia, hypothyroidism and exocrine pancreatic insufficiency.

Coat:  Medium-length double coat with dense, straight, harsh, outer coat and thick undercoat.
Country of Origin:  Germany

Visit the American Kennel Club for breed standards and more information.

One of the most recognized breeds in the world is the German Shepherd Dog and is well known for its adaptability, intelligence, and trainability.  The "father of the breed" was Rittmeister Max von Stephanitz.  Von Stephanitz promoted German Shepherds in the German Shepherd Dogs club (founded in April 1899), from 1899-1935.  He encouraged the breed's use in the military and for police during World War I.

Today the German Shepherd dog severs in many ways including:  police work, army work, search and rescue, scent discrimination, and as guide and assistance dogs.  German Shepherds are very loyal dogs, intelligent, and brave.  Shepherds are great with children of all ages and instinctually tuned into their people family members.  

This is one of my favorite breeds.  Our dog, Caravaggio, is part German Shepherd (along with Great Dane and Black Lab).  Knowing a lot about a breed allows you to pick out certain characteristics of that breed in your own dog.  For example, Caravaggio requires a lot of physical and mental activity.  He is also extremely owner oriented.  Caravaggio is a baby for his daddy.



Exercise:
German Shepherds are very energetic and intelligent dogs that require daily vigorous exercise.  Shepherds must be mentally and physically challenged each and every day to remain healthy and happy.  
I consider the Shepherd to be a "Powerful Breed."  Therefore, this is not a breed a would necessarily recommend for a first time owner.  However if the person is ready and willing to put in the extra work and training that the breed requires, this is one of the best breeds out there!

Grooming:
The Shepherd requires regular brushing to keep its dense undercoat under control.  The Shepherd is a heavy seasonal shedder.  It is not recommended to bath Shepherds too often because it will deplete the essential oils of the skin and coat.

Training:
Shepherds thrive on training.  Shepherds have been used as service and police dogs for many years.  They also excel in sports like herding, agility, and obedience.  Shepherds are very quick learners and appreciate people that keep them challenged.

Again this is a breed that requires a LOT of daily physical and mental activity.  Shepherds are considered working dogs and really need some sort of "job" to thrive.  This does not necessary mean they need to be a service dog.  A "job" for a dog can be accompanying you on a few vigorous walks throughout the day, or playing fetch for awhile, or even playing hide and seek with their toys.  They key for the German Shepherd and other working breeds is to continuously keep their minds working.  Sometimes something as simple as carrying a backpack on their daily walks will do the trick.

German Shepherd Police Dog.

Cute German Shepherd pup.

German Shepherd Service Dog.

Breed of the Month--Most Popular Dog Breeds

For this month's Breed of the Month, I would like to do a blog on the most popular breeds in the United States, and a few other places around the world.

Most Popular Dog Breeds

Oddly enough, the Top 5 most popular dog breeds in the United States were the same for both 2012 and 2013.  Below is the list of the Top Five.

Top 5 Dog Breeds in the US

#5  Bulldog

The Bulldog makes an excellent watchdog and although he does have strong protective instincts, he is one of the most gentle breeds.  Today's Bulldog is extremely affectionate and happy to be around other people and pets when properly socialized.  The Bulldog can be very stubborn and requires a firm, but patient owner.
(See Breed of the Month--Bulldog for more information.)



#4  Beagle
The Beagle's small size and charming personality has made the breed very popular.  A great size for apartment living, many city-dwelling pet owners love the breed.  Properly training and socializing your Beagle from day one is important.  Beagles do not generally like being left alone and can make some very loud objections to your absence; something to keep in mind if you are considering this breed.
(See Breed of the Month--Beagle for more information.)


#3  Golden Retriever
Smart, sociable, and always wanting to please their human, Golden Retrievers are a great breed.  Easy-going and lovable, the Golden gets along well with other dogs, other animals, and children of all ages.  Golden's are easily trainable using positive reinforcement, making them well sought after by service dog organizations all over the United States.
(See Breed of the Month--Golden Retriever for more information.)


#2  German Shepherd
The German Shepherd dog is one of my most favorite breeds.  The German Shepherd is adaptable, intelligent, and trainable.  It is one of the most recognized breeds in the world and is aptly used for police work, army work, search and rescue, scent discrimination, and as guide and assistance dogs.  German Shepherds are extremely loyal, intelligent, and brave.  Shepherds bond very closely with their family and have an instinct to protect them.  German Shepherds are quick learners, but require an owner using consistent positive reinforcement training.
(See Breed of the Month--German Shepherd.)


#1  Labrador Retriever
The Labrador Retriever is intelligent, affectionate, and willing to please.  Labs seem to understand that children need to be treated with an extra gentle touch.  Labs are generally high-energy and need lots of regular exercise, but just about any activity will do.  Labs are great with other dogs, other animals, and children of all ages.  Labs love to please and enjoy working for their owners.  Their excellent temperament and training ability not only makes them the most popular dog breed for owners, but also makes them highly popular in the use of police and service dogs.  Labs enjoy most any activity including:  fetch, swimming, hunting, agility, tracking, and obedience.  Many mixed-breed dogs have Lab in them.
(See Breed of the Month--Labrador Retriever.)



Top Breeds Around the World

Along with the United States, several other countries rank the Labrador Retriever as the number one dog breed.  They include:
Great Britain
Brazil
Israel
Sweden




Ranked #2 in the United States, the German Shepherd takes the top spot for most popular dog in both Germany and France.




Ranked #5 on the U.S. list, the Bulldog ranks the number one spot for South Africa.





Not gracing the Top 5 for the U.S. most popular breed, the American Staffordshire Terrier is rated most popular for Russia.  The AmStaff has an affectionate nature and loyalty for his family.  The AmStaff is adept at guarding, hunting, herding, and weight pulling.  It is vitally important to socialize and train this breed from day one, as they can become aggressive towards other dogs is not done so.  This is a very powerful breed that requires an owner willing to put in the time and training required.  I do not recommend this breed for a first-time dog owner.  This breed (along with other Pitbull-type breeds) are steadily gaining popularity in the United States.
(See Breed of the Month--American Staffordshire Terrier.)


Also missing the Top 5 list for the United States, the Doberman Pinscher is rated the number 2 dog in Israel.  The Doberman Pinscher excels in many activities including:  police work, therapy, search and rescue, and protection.  The breed is very intelligent and graceful, yet powerful and intimidating.  This breed is often used for home protection.  As with any powerful breed, the Doberman Pinscher is not necessarily a breed I would recommend for a first-time dog owner.
(See Breed of the Month--Doberman Pinscher.)

Remember, just because a breed is considered the most popular, does not mean its the right breed for you.  If you are truly considering adding a new dog to your family, please do your research.  If you have a breed in mind, look them up on-line and see if the aspects of the breed actually match your lifestyle.  Please do NOT get a dog breed based on looks alone.  Each breed has characteristic about it that are unique.  Properly choosing an appropriate dog breed for your lifestyle, family, and energy level, will ensure a happy life for your entire family.

Need help choosing the right dog breed for you?  Check out this previous post.

Breed of the Month--Beagle

Beagle

Color:  Any hound color.  No liver or solid colors.
Height:  13-16 inches (2 varieties)
Weight:  22-35 lbs
Life Span:  12-14 years

Breed Health Concerns:  Hypothyroidism, heart problems, epilepsy, glaucoma, Chinese Beagle syndrome, and Beagle Pain Syndrome.

Coat:  Medium length, weatherproof, close, hard, dense coat.
Country of Origin:  Great Britain

Visit the American Kennel Club for breed standards and more information.


A British breed, the Beagle dates as far back as the Celts.  Beagles were used in Wales and the British Isles for hunting hares.  As fox hunting popularity rose and rabbit hunting fell, the breed became less popular.  It was saved by small farmers in southern England that still used the breed to help supplement their diets with rabbit.  The breed was brought to the United States around the 1880s and quickly gained popularity.

With his small size, charming personality, and keen nose, the Beagle has ranked in the Top 5 most popular dogs to own for several years in the United States.  The Beagle was even the inspiration for the character Snoopy, by cartoonist Charles Schulz.

Although friendly and a cute size, the Beagle is still a hunting dog.  He was bred to use his voice, as all Hound dog breeds do.  Beagles do not generally like being left alone either.  These are things one should consider if thinking of adding a dog of this breed to your home.


Exercise:
The Beagle is a hunter by nature and loves to use his nose.  Plenty of regular daily exercise is required to keep this breed happy.  A walk around several blocks or a hike in the woods, it does not matter to the Beagle, as long as he gets to explore.

Grooming:
The short hair and small size of the Beagle make him easy to keep clean.  Regular baths will keep him smelling his best (as many hunting breeds like to find stinky dead things).  The eyes and ears must be kept clean and free of debris.

Training:
Using positive reinforcement training combined with treat-based rewards is important for training a Beagle.  The Beagle can be quite stubborn at times, but is highly food motivated.  Keep your Beagle engaged in training by using high-value rewards.  Once your Beagle learns a new skill, he will quickly be ready to move onto a more difficult task.