Hunter Pet: Mei 2011

Rabu, 11 Mei 2011

Shetland Sheepdog

General Description

(Sheltie) The Shetland Sheepdog looks like a miniature Collie. Their head is extremely small and round with a long, narrow muzzle. Their large, round eyes are usually dark brown color, and their mouths close into a scissor bite. Above their friendly faces, the dog’s small ears stick up but the tips fold over. Their neck and chest are slightly broad while their legs are short and skinny ending in small hare-like feet. The breed’s furry tail is long. These dogs have an abundance of hair covering their entire body, including a soft mane around their neck and head. Their hair feathers out on their legs and tail. Shetland Sheepdogs have a double layered coat available in a variety of colors, including black, sable, or blue merle with different amounts of white and tan.

German Shorthaired Pointer

General Description

(German Short-haired Pointing Dog, Deutsch Kurzhaar) The German Shorthaired Pointer is a versatile, all-purpose hunter and gun dog with an overall appearance of aristocracy, balance, power, and agility. They have a medium-sized, symmetrical build and an intelligent, animated expression. Ideally, dogs of this breed appear noble, coordinated, and capable. Bone structure of this breed is in direct proportion to the size of the dog’s body. The neck slopes downward in a graceful curve, and its length allows the dog to reach with its jaws to retrieve game. They have a deep chest that reaches down to the elbows and a short, strong, straight back with a slight rise from the tail root to the withers. Their strong loin is of moderate length and their broad hips are wide-set. Tails of this breed are high-set and firm, and they are customarily docked to 40% of their original length. They have sloping, mobile, well-muscled shoulders with blades that lie flat and are well laid back. Their upper arms are long and their elbows stand away from their body. Their thickly padded feet are close-knit, compact, and round- or spoon-shaped. They have muscular thighs and bent stifles, and their hock joints are angulated and sturdy. The head of the German Shorthaired Pointer is clean-cut and well-proportioned. Their skull is comparatively broad, slightly rounded, and arched on the sides. Muzzles of this breed are long enough to enable the dog to properly seize game. Depth of the muzzle is in proportion to the length of the dog’s skull. Their jaws are powerful and their strong, healthy teeth close in a scissors bite. They have medium-sized, almond-shaped eyes that are usually dark brown in color. Ears of this breed are high-set, broad, and lie flat against the dog’s head. Their nose is brown, large, and features broad, open nostrils. The short-haired coat of the German Shorthaired Pointer is thick, rough, and longer on the underside of the dog’s tail and the back edges of the dog’s haunches. Coat colors of this breed include solid liver or a combination of white and liver.

User added info

They can be black and white. This color is more common in Germany than the USA.

Character

The German Shorthaired Pointer is energetic, intelligent, cheerful. They constantly aim to please, and they love all of their family members equally. They are good with children and they are happiest when spending time in the company of people. If properly exercised, this breed makes an outstanding companion. Males of this breed tend to be more outgoing and aggressive, while females tend to be less dominant. Energy levels are likely to vary between specimens. Despite the fact that they are hunting dogs by nature, the German Shorthaired Pointer is generally good with cats and other dogs. This breed likes to bark, and they are sometimes leery of strangers.

This breed must be supervised with young children. They are not aggressive with children but may be clumsy and knock them over. They have an excellent temperament and will show respect to every member of the family.

Some may see cats as prey unless they are properly socialized from birth. Their prey drive is very strong and includes cats, squirrels and birds. They love a chase.

Though the German Shorthaired Pointer is a great family pet, they are not always friendly to other dogs and tend to be a solitary animal. It is important that you socialize this breed from birth with as many other dogs and people as possible for a well adjusted dog.

General Health

While the German Shorthaired Pointer is a comparatively healthy breed, some lines are prone to epilepsy, lymphedema, and hermaphrodism. Minor health concerns are entropion, gastric torsion, VWD, pannus, OCD, and CHD. This breed typically lives for 12 to 15 years.

History

German hunters of the nineteenth century were in need of a versatile hunting dog that possessed a keen sense of smell and outstanding pointing and tracking abilities. In order to achieve this result, the Germans incorporated the Old Spanish Pointer, the Foxhound, the English Pointer, and a variety of hounds from St. Hubert into their breeding. The contemporary German Shorthaired Pointer is the product of the efforts of these German hunters. The German Shorthaired Pointer is an all-purpose gun dog that is capable of performing very well on land and in water. They are excellent retrievers, good companions, and they require little training. They are successful in the show ring, obedience and tracking trials, hunting tests, and field trials.

Maintenance

The German Shorthaired Pointer has a smooth coat that is easy to groom and take care of. It should be brushed regularly with a firm bristle brush and bathed only as necessary. Rubbing the coat with a towel or chamois will leave it gleaming. The feet and ears of this breed should be checked frequently, and the coat should be thoroughly dried to prevent the onset of a chill. The German Shorthaired Pointer is an average shedder.

Ideal Environment

The German Shorthaired Pointer is not recommended for life in a small household or apartment. They are most content to live with an athletic family and at least a large-sized yard. They are well-suited to most climatic conditions. Exercise is of the utmost importance for this breed.

It is very important to remember that the German Shorthaired Pointer was bred to hunt and work. They enjoy being active and have a large amount of energy. Plenty of exercise is required.

This breed loves to have a job to do and to work. If they are under-exercised, they may become anxious and neurotic. This breed loves to exercise.

Doberman Pinscher

General Description

(Dobermann Pinscher) The Doberman Pinscher is agile, elegantly bodied, and powerful. The breed has a short back, well-proportioned chest, and a sinewy, muscular neck. Their legs are straight and parallel. They have well-developed teeth that close in a scissors bite and dark eyes with an intelligent expression. Ears of this breed are usually cropped, and they are often taped for several weeks to prompt them to stand erect. In recent history, many Doberman Pinschers have been left natural- without docking or cropping of the tail and/or ears. The short-haired coat of the Doberman Pinscher is close-fitting, hard, and thick. Coat colors for this breed include black, blue-gray, black & tan, red, and fawn. White markings may or may not be present.

User added info

As of 2009 they rank second in the worlds top ten best guard dogs. They also rank fifth in the worlds top ten most intelligent dog breeds.

Character

The Doberman Pinscher is a highly capable guard dog with an energetic personality and intelligent disposition. The breed possesses incredible strength and stamina, and they are adaptable and easy to train. They are courageous and assertive, yet they are not vicious or aggressive. Like any other breed, subtleties in temperament will vary according to the dog. They are regal, loyal, and very affectionate towards members of their family. They are a people-oriented breed, and they require an owner that is capable of disciplining the dog confidently. If allowed his or her own way too much, the Doberman Pinscher can be pushy. This breed is naturally protective, and they don’t need specialized training to be an outstanding guard dog. They should be trained and socialized properly from an early age to prevent over-protective behavior. If raised with children from an early age, they make wonderful family pets. This breed generally isn’t suitable for first-time dog owners.

General Health

The Doberman Pinscher is a comparatively healthy breed. Some lines are susceptible to cervical spindylitis (wobbler syndrome) because of a fusion of the neck vertebrae and compression of the spinal cord. Another concern is Von Willebrands disease, a possibly inherited blood disorder. The Doberman Pinscher is prone to obesity and bloat in its adult years. Hip dysplasia and congenital heart disorders are seen occasionally. It’s highly recommended that a veterinary check be given prior to purchasing a Doberman Pinscher puppy. This breed typically lives for up to 13 years.

They are also at risk for gastric torsion also known as bloat. Bloat will result in death without immediate treatment.

History

The Doberman Pinscher was developed in Germany throughout the 1860’s. It is highly likely that the breed was created by crossing German Pinschers with the Beauceron, the Rottweiler, the English Greyhound, and a variety of Greyhound and Pinscher breeds. The founder of this breed was a German tax collector by the name of Louis Dobermann. Mr. Dobermann’s goal was to create a watchdog that was capable of handling and adapting to a variety of unexpected situations. The Doberman Pinscher became instantly popular after its first showing in 1876.

The Doberman Pinscher was first developed in Thurigen, Germany, by a local town watchman named Karl Friedrich Louis Doberman. Doberman Wanted a nimble, quick-thinking dog of action to accompany him on his rounds during the 1870's. The breed was combination of the all qualities that Doberman was looking for in the ultimate police dog. He desired a breed that had the strengthen and muscles of the Rottweiler, the compactness of the Pinscher and the traits of several other local breeds, including the Black and Tan Terrier. The lines of the Doberman Pinchsher are unmistakable. Sleek, tapered, and quick moving, this alert dog is the ultimate guard/police dog. When properly trained, these dogs are the ultimate help to humans and their best friend. The Doberman has a fast, crisp gait and is capable of long burst of speed. A highly intelligent dog, it can be trained to do a great number of tasks and is able to think on his own. The breed has distinguished itself as both a guard dog and a messenger dog in many fields of battle. It is also known a well as a protector for individuals during peacetime. This breed requires lots of exercise and obedience training.

Maintenance

The short-haired coat of the Doberman Pinscher requires very little grooming and maintenance. This breed is an average shedder.

Ideal Environment

The Doberman Pinscher is content to live in a small household or apartment if it is given sufficient daily exercise. This breed is happiest with at least an average-sized yard. The Doberman Pinscher is sensitive to the cold, and it should not be kept as an outside dog. This is a highly energetic breed that needs plenty of physical activity.

A Doberman should not be kept outside in extreme heat. If your uncomfortable with the temperature be it hot or cold then a Doberman is will to be uncomfortable. If you live in an apartment then you will need to take your dog out several times a day as they need exercise. They do not do well in small spaces. They have a large amount of energy. They were bred for working and they enjoy task. If left alone for long periods they may become anxious and destructive.

Yorkshire Terrier

General Description

(Yorkie) The Yorkshire Terrier is a long-haired toy terrier with a well-proportioned body and a clean, compact appearance. They carry themselves proudly and exude an aura of self-confidence and vigor. They have a comparatively short back and a level back line. The height at the dog’s rump is approximately the same as the height at the dog’s shoulders. The breed’s hind legs are straight when viewed from behind, but their stifles are noticeably bent when viewed from the profile angle. Their forelegs are straight, and their elbows stick neither in nor out. Feet of this breed are round and feature a set of black toenails. The Yorkshire Terrier has a small head with a top that is nearly flat. Their skull is slightly rounded, not too prominent, and features a well-proportioned muzzle. Their sound teeth close in a scissors or level bite and their nose is black in color. They have dark, sparkling eyes and a pair of small, V-shaped ears that are carried erect. The coat of the Yorkshire Terrier is glossy, silky, and fine in texture. The hair across the dog’s body is comparatively long and absolutely straight. The hair is parted on the dog’s face from the base of the dog’s skull to the end of the tail. Hair should hang down evenly on both sides of the dog’s body. The hair on the muzzle is very long. The coat color for this breed is steel blue across the dog’s body and tail and tan everywhere else. Puppies are usually born black and tan. Tails of this breed are customarily docked to half of their original length.

User added info

Coat color on the head should be a clear gold, to match breed standards. Some Yorkies hair tends to gray as they age. Some will turn completely gray over time.

Character

The Yorkshire Terrier has a big personality, despite its small size. They are mischievous, spunky, and they seek out opportunities for adventure. They are full of energy and courage, and they are very loyal, clever, and determined. While they are sometimes leery of strangers, they are very affectionate with members of their own family. They do not like to be teased or pestered, and they generally get along best with older, more considerate children. They can get snappish if they are frightened or surprised. Like many other terrier breeds, the Yorkshire Terrier can be aggressive towards strange dogs and small animals. While this breed can sometimes be a bit stubborn, they are generally responsive to commands and easy to train. They like to bark, but they can easily be taught not to do so.

The Yorkshire Terrier is very friendly with children, likes to be taken on walks and likes to play games with owner. They are very intelligent and do well with all types of training. The Yorkshire Terrier is also very good in training.

General Health

Some lines of Yorkshire Terriers are prone to bronchitis and early tooth decay. They are sometimes unable to tolerate anesthetic treatment, and occasionally, their digestive systems are very delicate. As a result of herniated disks and other types of spine problems, the Yorkshire Terrier is at a mild risk for paralysis in the hindquarters. Falls can cause their delicate bones to fracture. Female Yorkshire Terriers often have problems delivering. The tiny “teacup” variety of Yorkshire Terrier frequently suffers from serious behavioral and health problems. Yorkshire Terriers should not be given exotic treats, and they should be fed dried food to help keep their teeth strong and clean. Regular teeth cleaning should also be given to these dogs by a veterinarian. This breed typically lives for 12 to 15 years.

History

The Yorkshire Terrier is a breed that is approximately 100 years old. Its specific origins are unknown. This is likely due to the fact that the breed was produced by a group of English working men who refrained from giving away the secret to their breeding success. These working men of north England created the Yorkshire Terrier to hunt rats in mine shafts and dig into badger and fox burrows. It’s also probable that Scotsmen seeking work in the mills of Yorkshire brought various types of terriers with them. Such terriers included the Skye Terrier and the Clydesdale Terrier (now extinct). These breeds were crossed with several local breeds like the long-haired Leeds Terrier. Many believe the Maltese, the Black and Tan Manchester, and the Dandie Dinmont Terrier may have also contributed to the breed’s development. The original Yorkshire Terrier was much bigger than the version we see today. Selective breeding has produced a Yorkshire Terrier that is much smaller in size. The first specimen that exhibited the characteristics demanded by its contemporary standard was shown in 1870.

Maintenance

The long-haired, silky coat of the Yorkshire Terrier needs regular grooming. Clipped coats should be brushed and combed on an almost daily basis. This breed’s teeth should be cleaned frequently. The Yorkshire Terrier is a minimal shedder.

Ideal Environment

The Yorkshire Terrier is well-suited to life in a small household or apartment. They are a very active breed indoors, and they do not require a yard. This breed will benefit from regular physical activity and exercise, and they enjoy having the opportunity to run around and play. This breed is sensitive to harsh weather conditions and prefers a warmer climate.

They need an occasionally walks. They are good in apartment living. Even though they look like they can handle all types of weather they prefer a warm climate. Although small in size, they tolerate cold weather conditions well. If they are kept in long coat, hot climates are less well tolerated.

Standard Poodle

General Description

(Caniche, Barbone, Chien Canne) The Standard Poodle exudes an aura of elegance, intelligence, and pride. This breed has the appearance of an active dog. Their bodies are squarely built, and properly proportioned. They have a fairly broad, deep chest with well-sprung ribs, and their loin is stout, broad, and well-muscled. Their shoulders are strong and smoothly muscled, with the blades properly set back. Their forelegs are straight and parallel when viewed from the front. Feet of this breed are comparatively small, oval-shaped, and feature a set of well-arched toes. Their neck is sturdy, well-proportioned, and long enough to allow for prideful head carriage. The skull of the Standard Poodle is moderately rounded, and the stop is slightly visible. The breed’s muzzle is long, straight, and fine, and their eyes are oval-shaped, far-set, and dark in color. Their ears hang close to their head. The coat of the Standard Poodle is groomed in one of three basic styles. The first style, the “pet clip”, results in comparatively short hair across the dog’s body. The second style, the “English saddle clip”, results in the face being clipped and the throat, forelegs, and tail base being shaved. The third style, the “Continental clip”, results in the rear half of the dog’s body being shaved. In this style, bracelets are left around the ankles and pom-poms are left on the tail and hips. There are other styles of clips for the Standard Poodle, but they are not acceptable in the show ring.

User added info

Standard poodles come in all colors but only solid colors are acceptable in the show ring in the UK. The main colors are Apricot, Red, Chocolate, Cafe au laite (which is a lighter brown), Black, Gray, White, and Blue. Poodles also come in Multi-Color. The Standard Poodle has very expressive eyes that should be slightly almond shaped and a deep chocolate color. The nose should be black. However, the exception to this rule is the Apricot poodle; which can have amber eyes and a liver colored nose. This is acceptable in the show ring, though it isn't preferred.

Character

The Stadard Poodle is refined, elegant, and dignified. The breed is naturally kind, even-tempered, and sensitive. They are highly intelligent and very easy to train. This breed needs to be in the company of people, and they can’t stand to be alone for extensive periods of time. They are good with children and generally friendly towards strangers. They can make decent guard dogs and they can be trained to hunt. The larger variety of Standard Poodle tends to be calmer than the smaller varieties.

The Standard Poodle is a very bouncy breed, they love to play and may accidental injure small cats. This breed was originally bred for hunting and may occasionally pick up or chew dead animals. Poodles enjoy water and may jump unexpectedly jump in a nearby pond or lake. This breed is full of personality and charisma. They will love everyone and everything, though they may choose to bond especially closely with just one person.

General Health

Like many other large dog breeds, the Standard Poodle is prone to hip dysplasia. Other common concerns for the breed include cataracts, progressive retinal atrophy (which can cause blindness), allergies, and skin conditions. Runny eyes, ear infections, and bloat are also comparatively common. Less likely to occur is Von Willebrand’s Disease. Some Standard Poodles with brown coats may become prematurely gray. This breed typically lives for 12 to 15 years.

Another relatively common inherited disease in standards is Sebaceous Adenitis or SA. It is an inflammatory skin disease that leads to the destruction of the sebaceous glands and results in hair loss.

History

The Standard Poodle has been known throughout Western Europe for more than 400 years, but the breed’s exact origin is somewhat controversial. It is uncertain whether the breed was developed in Germany, Denmark, France, or the ancient Piedmont. While several other countries have claimed to be the founding place of the breed, France has gained official recognition as the Standard Poodle’s country of origin. The Poodle is descendant of a nearly extinct breed of French water dog called the Barbet. Many believe the Hungarian Water Hound also played a founding role in the breed’s development. The name “Poodle” likely comes from the German word “Pudel”, which translates to “one who plays in water”. Originally used as a gun dog and waterfowl retriever, the French eventually capitalized on the breed’s high intelligence, trainability, and showmanship and began using Standard Poodle as a circus performer. The breed is portrayed in paintings from the 15th century and bas-reliefs from the 1st century. During the 18th century, the Toy and Miniature Poodle varieties became royal favorites. These varieties developed after the Standard Poodle was bred down in size. All three sizes are considered to be the same breed, and all three sizes are judged by the same standard. While the Standard Poodle can learn or adapt to nearly any environment or work-related task, the majority of them are presently used as companions and show dogs.

Maintenance

The coat of the Standard Poodle requires a great deal of grooming and maintenance. The breed must be bathed on a regular basis, and the coat must be clipped every six to eight weeks. Ears should be inspected, and excess hair around the ears should be removed. Teeth of this breed need frequent scaling. This breed sheds little to no hair, and many believe they are a good choice of pet for allergy sufferers.

The Poodle is hypoallergenic. This breed, especially the standard size, has one of the most expensive grooming requirements of all breeds, whether the dog is shown professionally or not. Their hair is different than other breed and they do not shed. It will continue to grow if not trimmed. Their different skin and hair allow them to be nearly odor free. Most owners use a Greyhound Comb or a Slicker Brush to keep their Poodles from matting.

Ideal Environment

The Standard Poodle is content to live in a small household or apartment if it receives sufficient daily exercise. They are a comparatively inactive breed indoors, and they are happiest with at least a small-sized yard. While they don’t require a great deal of daily physical activity, they enjoy going for walks and playing a variety of games.

The Standard Poodle might not fare well in an apartment, unless they are sufficiently exercised. If under exercised, they may become anxious and bark at faint noises. Frequent trips to the dog park may be needed for young Poodles. If under exercised, a Poodle may become high strung, destructive, and find things to chew to keep them busy.

Shih Tzu Dog

General Description

(Chrysanthemum Dog, Chinese Lion Dog) The Shih Tzu is a sturdy toy dog with a compact, solid build. These dogs have a distinctive, arrogant carriage that is befitting of their noble Chinese heritage. The length between the withers and the tail root is slightly longer than the height at the withers. This breed is always solid, compact, and substantial, with good weight carriage and proportions. They have an overall look of balance, and none of their bodily features are over-exaggerated. Their neck blends gracefully into their shoulders, and it is of adequate length to permit a naturally high head carriage. The breed’s topline is level and the chest is broad and deep. They have well-sprung ribs and the depth of their ribcage extends to the point just below their elbows. Tails of this breed are high-set, heavily plumed, and carried in a curve well over the dog’s back. Their properly angulated shoulders are well laid-back and fit smoothly into the dog’s body. They have muscular, well-boned, straight limbs that are set well-apart and under the chest. Their elbows are set close to their body, and their hocks are well let down and perpendicular. Feet of this breed are firm, thickly padded, and point straight ahead. The round head of the Shih Tzu is broad, wide between the eyes, and in tune with the size of the rest of the dog’s body. Their skull is domed and their stop is pronounced. The muzzle is square-shaped, short, and unwrinkled, with good cushioning. The breed’s nostrils are broad and open, and their jaw is wide and undershot. The Shih Tzu has a luxurious, long, dense double coat that is straight or slightly waved and flowing. The hair on the top of the dog’s head is usually tied up. Any coat color is acceptable.

User added info

There coat is sliky smooth and may feel like you're touching a feather

Character

Because the Shih Tzu is solely bred to serve as a companion and house pet, it is especially important for their temperament to be cheerful, affectionate, outgoing, and trusting towards everyone. They are spunky and full of spirit, and they possess good character. They are naturally very dignified, and they sometimes have a tendency to appear arrogant. They are gentle and kind, and they get along well with polite, careful children. This breed likes to bark outside, but they are usually quiet in the house. If surprised, teased, or pestered, they may have a tendency to snap. The Shih Tzu needs a great deal of interaction with people.

General Health

The Shih Tzu has a propensity to wheeze and snore. Some lines of this breed are susceptible to ear, eyes, and respiratory problems. Because of their long back and short legs, spinal disc disease is also a concern. Teeth of this breed require regular veterinary attention. The Shih Tzu gains weight easily. They typically live for 15 or more years.

A poorly bred Shih Tzu may wheeze and snore. This type of breathing is also common in puppies when they are teething. Most puppies out grow it. When selecting a puppy, it is advised to look at a puppies nostrils and make sure they are round and open. Pinched nostrils cause wheezing, snoring and respiratory problems. A properly breed Shih Tzu will have a short, cobby body that is not long. Most Shih Tzus carry a marker for kidney disease, however, that doesn't mean they will have any problems. Breeds with at least 2 genetic markers are more prone for this disorder.

History

Recent research and DNA analysis confirms that the Shih Tzu is one of the oldest dog breeds. It originated in China, probably as the result of crossings between the Pekingese and the Lhasa Apso. The breed was a favorite of the Imperial Chinese court, and for many years the Chinese refused to trade or sell these dogs with the Western World. It wasn’t until 1930 that the Shih Tzu was imported to England. The breed was officially recognized in Britain in 1946. The United States recognized the breed in 1969. The Shih Tzu is very popular as a companion and show dog.

The Shih-Tzu comes from China and is the mix of the Pekingese and the Lhasa Apso.They are known as the “Holy Dog “.Shih Tzu were occasionally given to distinguished visitors as a token of goodwill and good luck. It came into France and England in the 1950s.They found their way into the US in 1938. They are known as the most high-classed breed. And are also known as the most ancient breed.

Maintenance

The Shih Tzu should be groomed on a daily basis with a bristle brush. Many of these dogs have a topknot that is tied with a bow. Eyes and ears of this breed should be kept clean. They shed little to no hair, and they are a good choice of pet for allergy sufferers.

Ideal Environment

The Shih Tzu is well-suited to life in a small household or apartment. They are a comparatively active breed indoors, and they are content to live without a yard. They are sensitive to hot weather.

Rottweiler

General Description

The Rottweiler is a comparatively large dog breed with a robust, powerful appearance that signifies strength and agility. They are substantial and compact, with a body that is just slightly longer than it is tall. Their deep chest is spacious, wide, and reaches to the elbow. Chest depth of this breed is roughly 50% of the dog’s height. They have oval, well-sprung ribs and a prominent, defined forechest. Their moderately long neck is strong, well-muscled, and slightly arched. Their back is firm, straight, and extends in a straight line from the withers to the croup. Tails of this breed are customarily docked. The breed’s shoulder blades are well laid back and long, and the legs are straight, far-set, and heavily boned. Their thickly padded feet are round, compact, and feature a set of well-arched toes. The angulations of the forequarters and hindquarters are balanced. The Rottweiler’s head is medium in length, broad between the ears, and the forehead line is moderately arched. They have a pronounced stop and a tapered muzzle with a straight bridge. Their broad jaws feature a complete set of teeth that close in a scissors bite. Eyes of this breed are medium-sized, almond-shaped, and moderately deep-set. The preferred eye color is dark brown. The Rottweiler’s medium-length outer coat is straight, dense, flat, and coarse. An undercoat is present on the dog’s thighs and neck, but the thickness of this undercoat will vary according to climate. The coat is shortest around the face, head, ears, and legs. The coat color for this breed is black with markings of rust or mahogany. Female Rottweilers have a smaller frame and lighter build than their male counterparts, but they do not appear weak and their bodies do not lack substance or structure.

Character

The Rottweiler is even-tempered, brave, and loyal. Because of their strong protective instincts, they will defend their family fiercely. While they have a reliable, stable temperament, they are naturally strong fighters. They are confident, serious, and calm. Firm, careful training is vital for this breed. With proper training, the Rottweiler is a loyal, loving companion, but improper training and socialization can result in an overly powerful and aggressive dog. This breed requires a dominant owner. To be truly happy, they need a good deal of human interaction and companionship. They sometimes have a tendency to be aggressive towards other dogs. If properly trained and socialized, this breed is very good with children. While they are leery of strangers, they are very welcoming towards friends and relatives of their family.

This breed is very balanced, tranquil, obedient, brave and easily trained. It may only defend itself of its' master when under attack. It can be used for herding or trained for self defense. They are very gentle and are happy to live with sheep outdoors.

General Health

Like many other large dog breeds, the Rottweiler is prone to hip dysplasia. Other health concerns include ACL damage and entropion. This breed has a propensity to overheat. They typically live for 10 to 12 years.

They are known to have heart problems, eye diseases, thyroid problems, cancer, OCD, HD, and allergies.

History

While the exact origin of the Rottweiler is unknown, it’s highly likely that the breed is a descendant of the Italian Mastiff. It was initially bred in the German town of Rottweil. Throughout the Middle Ages, they were heavily utilized as a herding and guard dog. They nearly became extinct in the 1800’s, but the population made a comeback in the early part of the twentieth century after dedicated efforts were made by the enthusiastic breeders of Stuttgart. The Rottweiler has a number of natural talents including herding, tracking, watching, guarding, carting, police work, competitive obedience, and schutzhund.

They where used as herding dogs 1900 years ago by the Roman army.

Maintenance

The smooth, glossy coat of the Rottweiler is easy to groom and care for. It should be brushed with a firm bristle brush and shampooed only as necessary. This breed is an average shedder.

Ideal Environment

The Rottweiler is content to live in a small household or apartment if it is sufficiently exercised. They are a comparatively inactive breed indoors, and they are satisfied with a small-sized yard. This breed needs a good deal of daily physical activity. They enjoy retrieving, running, and swimming, and they can never be given too much work to do.

This breed needs a lot of mental simulation. Rottweilers love to work with their masters.

Pug Dog

General Description

(Carlin) (Mops) The Pug is a cute and commonly seen breed. The breed’s head is covered in wrinkles like a small version of a Shar Pei or Bulldog. Pugs have an extremely short muzzle which looks scrunched up and ends with a small black nose. Their cute faces and large, round eyes are often full of expressions. Small folded ears finish off their adorable, unique face. Despite their small size, the Pug has a broad neck with a dewlap that leads to a wide, square body. Pugs have short skinny legs and a curled tail that lies on its back. Short fur covers their entire small body. The most common fur colors are fawn and black, but they can also be silver or apricot.

User added info

Pugs are mainly recognized by their tightly-curled tail, black wrinkly face and fawn/tan fur and small build.

Character

Always sweet and cheerful is how the Pug is often described. Family is most important to these little dogs that thrive on attention. A gentle nature makes the Pug great for playing with children. Strangers and dogs will receive the same playful and loving attention a family member would. Plus, owners do not need to worry about Pugs around small animals. Intelligence makes them highly trainable but also independent and stubborn. Sensitivity to punishment makes it important to not yell at Pugs or to use a harsh voice when correcting the breed.

Pugs are natural clowns and are good with small children.

General Health

The Pug has some health problems mostly because of how they were bred. These problems include extreme breathing problems caused by their short muzzle and ulcers on the cornea and inflammation of the cornea caused by their eyes bulging. Other health problems are just genetic, including allergies. Also common are colds, eye weeping, and skin problems. Many Pugs find it hard to give birth naturally and need Cesarean Sections. Another important thing for owners to remember is that Pugs will easily over eat and become obese. Life expectancy for a Pug is between 12 to15 years.

On average, a Pug will live 12 to 15 years. Be aware of breathing problems. The flat, wrinkly face makes it hard for a Pug to breathe sometimes. Be sure not to overwork this breed if it has breathing problems.

History

Pugs probably developed in Asia around the 5th century BC. However, there are numerous alternative theories. What is assumed is that the breed ended up in England after British forces found the dogs in China during an attack. The breed was popular among artists, as a companion in monasteries, and as fashion accessories during the Victorian Era. When pugs finally arrived in Europe before the 16th century, they quickly became adopted as a favorite pet of the wealthy. In 1885, the Pug was finally recognized by the AKC.

The average life expectancy for this breed is 15 years

Maintenance

Grooming is simple and not time consuming for this little breed. Regular baths and brushing sessions are needed and the wrinkles on their face should be cleaned every day. Pugs are active and enjoy playing games and walking. However, they do get tired quickly and may start wheezing which means they are overexerted. This breed still should be exercised because they can become obese easily. Special care should be taken to prevent this breed from getting too cold or hot because they cannot withstand harsh climates. Pugs are more than moderate shedders year round, with a heavier shedding in the spring when living in four season climates. Bladed combs are best for controlling short top and undercoats.

They are moderate shedders year round even with proper grooming. It's best to clean the wrinkles on their face every other day to avoid infection.

Pugs have a coat that sheds heavily. The hairs are like small needles and find their way into clothes and carpets.

Ideal Environment

The Pug is a perky dog that gets along with all people and animals. Apartment living is fine for this breed because they are calm indoors and do not need a yard. Care should be taken before purchasing a Pug because of their numerous health concerns. A loving family with time to play and provide love is the Pug’s ideal home. However, Pugs cannot be in extreme hot or cold climates.

Pugs love to be with their owners and hate to be alone. They enjoy companionship with dogs. Most prefer sweaters when it's cold outside as they don't handle harsh weather that well. They can also be trained to eliminate on pads if the weather is too harsh.