Australian Cattle Dog

The Australian Cattle Dog is also known as: Blue Heeler, Hall's Heeler, Queensland Heeler

Fast Facts

Group classification: Herding	Country of origin: Australia	Date of origin: 19th century
Weight (M): 40 - 45 lb	Height (M): 18 - 20"	Life expectancy: 11 - 13 years
Weight (F): 35 - 40 lb	Height (F): 17 - 19"

General Description of the Australian Cattle Dog

The Australian Cattle Dog is a medium-sized dog with a smooth, flat coat texture. Coloring is either blue or red speckle. If blue, the acceptable colors and markings are blue, black, white and tan that is distributed evenly. For red speckled Australian Cattle Dogs there should be red mottling with no cream or white. The head is proportionate to the rest of the body, strong and balanced. The muzzle is medium in length and neither pointed nor cheeky, with a pure black nose. The eyes are oval in shape and dark brown in color, and should convey alert intelligence. Ears are medium in size, wide set apart and moderately pointed. Teeth should be strong and scissor-like. The body is strong and muscular, while the tail is set moderately low with a mild curve.

Australian Cattle Dog Temperament

Because these dogs were bred to herd, they are energetic and enthusiastic. They are loyal and loving protectors and need a lot of fresh air and exercise. Australian Cattle Dogs can be great with children, as long as they are introduced to youngsters at an early age. They will often need to be directed not to nip at the heels of little ones, because this is a herding instinct that is ingrained within them. The Australian Cattle Dog is wary of strangers and can become aggressive towards them if not socialized properly as puppies. These dogs can be exuberant and stubborn, especially when they are young. They need firm handling and an owner that is willing and able to provide them with the direction and exercise they need. The Australian Cattle Dog needs wide open spaces in which to run and is definitely not a dog for an apartment dweller. If you have additional dogs or other pets, care must be taken to manage the dog's dominant tendencies.

Caring for an Australian Cattle Dog

One of the best things about the Australian Cattle Dog is how little grooming it requires. The short coat is highly weatherproof and only needs periodic brushing with a stiff brush. The coat may, however, need extra brushing during the shedding months. It is not necessary to bathe your Australian Cattle Dog very often, unless it gets very dirty. Known health issues include hip dysplasia, osteochondritis dissecans, deafness, progressive retinal atrophy, cataracts and elbow dysplasia.

Anatolian Shepherd dogs

The Anatolian Shepherd is also known as: Coban Kopegi, Kangal Dog, Kara bas, Karabash Dog

Fast Facts

Group classification: Working	Country of origin: Turkey	Date of origin: Antiquity
Weight (M): 110 - 150 lb	Height (M): 29"+	Life expectancy: 10 - 13 years
Weight (F): 80 - 120 lb	Height (F): 27"+

General Description of the Anatolian Shepherd

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.

Anatolian Shepherd Temperament

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.

Caring for an Anatolian Shepherd

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.

American Foxhound dogs

The American Foxhound is also known as: None

Fast Facts

Group classification: Hound	Country of origin: United States	Date of origin: 17th century
Weight (M): 45 - 65 lb	Height (M): 22 - 25"	Life expectancy: 12 - 13 years
Weight (F): 40 - 60 lb	Height (F): 21 - 24"

General Description of the American Foxhound

Quick and agile, the American Foxhound is the product of a centuries long effort to produce the perfect fox hunting breed. The dog has a lean, strong build and is covered by a solid, tight coat that may be of any color. The head is relatively long and the eyes have a gentle or soft look that many describe as “pleading.” The ears are low set, broad, and long enough to reach the nose if pulled forward. The nose is turned slightly upwards, creating what many describe as a Roman-nosed appearance. The tail, somewhat high-set, may have a slight brush texture and is carried freely with a minimal curve. The American Foxhound is taller and lighter than its British cousin, and is thus a bit faster and more agile.

 

 

American Foxhound Temperament

A true hunting dog, the American Foxhound is happiest in the field and on the trail. With its powerful sense of smell, this dog is easily distracted by various scents, and once it has decided to follow one you will have a difficult time calling it off. The breed hunts with the passion of a warrior, but is gentle, affectionate, and great with children in the home. With regard to strangers, the American Foxhound’s temperament can vary tremendously. Some dogs act in an extremely protective or guard-like manner while others will eagerly embrace an outsider. The American Foxhound has a long history of hunting in packs, and therefore gets along exceptionally well with other dogs; it also tends to be good with pets. This dog will bay and howl, and city living is therefore not recommended.

Caring for an American Foxhound

The American Foxhound was bred to be a fast hunter with great endurance. The breed therefore requires a substantial amount of exercise to be fit in both a physical and mental sense. A daily romp can suffice, although the best form of fitness is for the dog to meet his duties as a hunter in the field. To ensure a well-adjusted adult dog, it is important for the American Foxhound to begin obedience training at a young age. The breed has a tight coat that requires minimal grooming. When accompanied by another social dog, the American Foxhound does well living outside, but the dog should never be made to feel lonely and generally prefers to sleep inside with its family. The American Foxhound is your typical healthy hound, and is not known to have any hereditary illness. Thrombopathy is very rarely seen in the breed.

American Eskimo Dog

The American Eskimo Dog is also known as: American Spitz

Fast Facts

Group classification: Non-Sporting	Country of origin: United States	Date of origin: 20th century
Weight (M): 25 - 40 lb	Height (M): 16 - 19"	Life expectancy: 12 - 13 years
Weight (F): 15 - 30 lb	Height (F): 14 - 17"

General Description of the American Eskimo Dog

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.

American Eskimo Dog Temperament

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.

Caring for an American Eskimo Dog

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.

Alaskan Malamute

The Alaskan Malamute is also known as: None

Fast Facts

Group classification: Working	Country of origin: United States (Alaska)	Date of origin: Antiquity
Weight (M): 85 lb	Height (M): 25"	Life expectancy: 10 - 12 years
Weight (F): 75 lb	Height (F): 23"

General Description of the Alaskan Malamute

The Alaskan Malamute excels at hauling heavy loads over great distances in brutal conditions, and its construction is consistent with such use. The long body is powerful and well muscled throughout, heavy boned with a straight back and very strong legs; large feet also help the dog to plod through snow. The head and muzzle are large, broad and deep. The ears are set wide apart on the skull, small, triangular and rounded. The eyes are brown, medium sized and almond shaped, and give the dog a kind, endearing expression. The Alaskan Malamute’s outer coat is medium length, coarse and thick, and left untrimmed in show dogs. The undercoat is dense and woolly. The coat can be solid white, but it is more common for white to be the predominant color with various shading of gray, black, sable or red. The face generally has a white mask or blaze. The Alaskan Malamute is distinctly wolf-like in appearance.

Alaskan Malamute Temperament

As befitting a dog that was bred to hunt and pull in packs, the Alaskan Malamute has a sociable and team-oriented personality. The Alaskan Malamute can be aggressive toward strange dogs, and will readily give chase to small and large animals alike. Strangers, however, are another story, and the dog seems to have an instinct to trust people. While this trait makes the Alaskan Malamute a mediocre guard dog, it does much to improve this animal’s standing with people. The Malamute enjoys having a task to perform, and is eager to follow a strong leader. This is not to say, however, that the dog will serve with the same unquestioning obedience of a German Shepherd or Retriever. Quite the contrary: the Alaskan Malamute is a creature of instinct, and if it does not agree with its master’s orders it is likely to disobey them. This strong willed stubbornness can make training a trying task, but a firm hand and an in-control attitude will go far in showing the Malamute who is boss. The breed tends to be docile in the home, and is a loyal and loving family member.

Caring for an Alaskan Malamute

The hardy Alaskan Malamute was once the primary means of transporting heavy loads through the Arctic, and it has never forgotten that legacy. The dog needs vigorous exercise every day to expend its vast reserves of energy. Running, hauling or playing should do the trick. Insufficient exercise can lead to undesirable habits such as incessant howling, digging or destructiveness. The breed excels in cold climates and withers in the heat; make sure this dog is given plenty of water and shelter on hot days. Coat care entails a twice a week brushing; the coat never needs to be trimmed. Health concerns for the Alaskan Malamute include canine hip dysplasia, cataracts, hypothyroidism and chondrodysplasia.

Akita

The Akita is also known as: Akita Inu, Japanese Akita

Fast Facts

Group classification: Working	Country of origin: Japan	Date of origin: Antiquity
Weight (M): 85 - 120 lb	Height (M): 25 - 28"	Life expectancy: 10 - 12 years
Weight (F): 65 - 90 lb	Height (F): 23 - 26"

General Description of the Akita

Large, powerful and heavy of bone, the Akita is a classic working spitz. The head is large and smooth with powerful jaws and muzzle, and a distinct stop. Ears and eyes are small and triangular; ears stand erect, and eyes are dark, deep set and have an intelligent expression. The body is slightly longer than tall, well muscled throughout and designed for maximum efficiency in hunting game in deep snow. The tail is full and carried over the back. The feet are catlike. The dog’s soft, dense undercoat is protected by a straight, harsh outer coat that stands off the body. The coat can be any color including pinto, white or brindle, with markings clear and well balanced.

Akita Temperament

Though the Akita is unshakably devoted to her family and loved ones, she is also an independent and free minded soul. This means training can be trying at times, as the Akita will often try to establish dominance; once you demonstrate who is boss, however, the faithful Akita will fall into line immediately. The dog is protective of its family, and tends to befriend strangers and other dogs only reluctantly. Even with extensive training and socialization, do not expect this breed to greet people with the same easy friendship as a Labrador; a more realistic response to newcomers is initial suspicion and eventual acceptance. The Akita is marginally more accepting of other house pets, but again, the overwhelming majority of this dog’s affection is focused squarely on its family. The Akita is gentle and even motherly with children, and may be especially protective of them.

Caring for an Akita

With the proper physical and mental exercise every day, the Akita can be a calm and well mannered house pet. A long run or, even better, exciting game will keep the Akita happy and free from hyperactive behavior. The dog’s thick coat is fairly low maintenance, but should be brushed once or twice a week. Ears, eyes and feet should also be inspected regularly. The Akita enjoys cold weather and can live outdoors in fairly cool climates; hot weather is another story, however, and proper care should be taken to keep the dog cool and hydrated on hot days. Health concerns for the Akita include progressive retinal atrophy, canine hip dysplasia, osteosarcoma, hypothyroidism, lymphosarcoma, gastric torsion and pemphigus.

Airedale Terrier

The Airedale Terrier is also known as: Bingley Terrier, Waterside Terrier

Fast Facts

Group classification: Terrier	Country of origin: England	Date of origin: 19th century
Weight (M): ~55 lb	Height (M): 23"	Life expectancy: 10 - 13 years
Weight (F): ~55 lb	Height (F): Slightly less

General Description of the Airedale Terrier

Among the largest of the terriers, the Airedale has a long flat head and a very wiry and hard coat. The head gives the animal the terrier look, with sharp keen eyes and a beard reminiscent of a Scotty. The nose is always black. The ears are V-shaped and can fold to the back of the head depending on the dog’s mood. The dog stands completely square when in formation and is level with straight forequarters and strong hindquarters. The tail is carried high with a slight curve that should not reach the back of the animal. The outer coat is dense and wiry, and the undercoat is short and soft. Coloring is typically in various shades of tan, with darker markings on the saddle and upper parts of the dog; white markings on the chest are also occasionally seen.

Airedale Terrier Temperament

The Airedale is often considered the most flexible of the terriers, being able to herd, retrieve and hunt in addition to the traditional terrier calling of exterminating vermin. Like most terriers, however, the Airedale is strong-willed and occasionally stubborn, and without proper training the dog’s considerable working skills will go to waste. Be firm when training your Airedale and make sure he knows you’re the boss, or he could become domineering and intractable. The dog is exceptionally intelligent and can pick up new tricks with surprising speed. In fact, it is fairly common for an Airedale Terrier to seemingly “forget” a trick, when in fact he has simply grown bored with his owner repeating the same trick request and is ready to move on to something else! The dog is a devoted family member, and can actually provide a surprisingly high level of protection. As one would expect with a protective dog, the Airedale is not the most open to new people and dogs, and should be taught and encouraged to socialize amiably. The Airedale Terrier is an alpha dog and can become hostile to another dog it perceives as challenging its supremacy; a small dog is therefore typically a better companion to this breed.

Caring for an Airedale Terrier

The Airedale Terrier is a highly active breed, and needs a chance to exercise everyday. The dog is especially fond of being let loose in a field where it can play an invigorating game, explore and dig. Grooming requirements are substantial, and include biweekly combing and monthly clipping and shaping. Puppies will sometimes need to have their ears “glued” to ensure proper shape. This hardy breed can live outdoors in temperate climates, but is much happier indoors with its family. The Airedale Terrier is a very healthy breed with few inherited diseases. Some things to watch out for include canine hip dysplasia, gastric torsion and hypothyroidism.