The Dandie Dinmont Terrier is the perfect house pet for people of all ages. Dandies can be rough and tough when playing around, yet will pour on the love and affection to its owners. They are a loyal companion, devoted to the family, and independent in personality.

These terriers are also very friendly when it comes to other dogs and pets. They are overly playful and always on the lookout for new friends. However, if a stranger approaches the house without the owners around, you can expect the Dandie Dinmont Terrier to bark incessantly to ward off the intruder, making them an excellent watchdog.

A Brief History Of The Dandie Dinmont Terrier

Noted as being one of the most unusual looking members of the Terrier Group, the Dandie Dinmont Terrier has its roots from an area that bordered Scotland and England. They were first seen as unique-looking, service dogs which have been around since the 1700s. Farmers used them to help hunt and kill small animals such as otter, fox, and badgers.

These dogs went by several names before being coined as the Dandie. At one point they were called Mustard Terriers, Hindlee Terriers, or Pepper Terriers. The Catcleugh Terrier was another popular name for the dog. Many of these terriers were owned by a man named James Davidson.

It is said that Davidson's dogs were used as models for the Dandie Dinmont characters used in a book titled "Guy Mannering", written by Sir Walter Scott (the book was published in 1914). And of course, these dogs became known as the Dandie Dinmont Terrier, recognized as their own breed in 1873. Today they can still be found in happy homes around the world but not nearly as popular as other members of the terrier family.

Upkeep Requirements For The Dandie Dinmont Terrier

Enjoying the companionship of a Dandie Dinmont Terrier means living an active lifestyle with a lot of playtime in the yard. These dogs have very high energy levels that need to be handled through daily exercise. They also love to explore and hunt for small animals around the yard.

The ideal living arrangement is to have the Dandie with full access to a safe fenced-in yard during the day while sleeping inside with the family at night. Grooming requirements call for a good brushing about twice weekly. And due to the Dandie's coat, it requires a professional clipping and shaping about every three to four months.

Health Concerns

The average lifespan of the Dandie Dinmont Terrier is between eleven and thirteen years. There are no major health concerns to worry about in the breed. Minor health issues that are commonly seen include glaucoma and intervertebral disk disease. Rarely seen is cheyletiella mites. Veterinarians suggest that this breed get specifically tested for eye problems.

Although there is a bit of confusion concerning the background and origin of the Scottish Terrier, researchers do have conclusive documentation and information that shows this dog breed thriving back to the late񎤈s.

What is the confusion about? For starters, we used to refer to all terrier-types that were from Scotland as "Scottish Terriers." In addition, today's official Scottish Terrier used to be grouped as a "Skye Terrier." Whatever the origin may be, early Scottish Terriers were some of the hardest working hunting dogs alive. They would go in strong pursuit of their prey through any condition and terrain.

For some time they were referred to as "Aberdeen Terriers" because at one point they were mostly favored by the people of the Aberdeen area. This reference name only made a confusing situation worse. There were even people protesting the various names of this dog breed until finally a detailed description of what an authentic Scottish Terrier should look like was drawn up sometime around 1880. This was the first breed standard created for this dog.

Scottish Terriers first came to the United States in the year 1883. It gained popularity at a gradual pace until World War II. Then for some reason its popularity skyrocketed. The most popular Scottish Terrier was Franklin Roosevelt's own dog named Fala.

Personality

Scottish Terrier dogs are extremely rugged and with a "tough-guy" personality. How else could you describe a dog whose nickname is "Diehard." Along with their bold exterior, these dogs are smart, inquisitive, and are always ready for action. Regardless of how big another dog or animal may be, Scottish Terriers can be fearless and quite aggressive when provoked. This attitude is quite the opposite when it comes to its family, of which the Scottish Terrier will remain loyal and protective.

Taking Care Of Your Scottish Terrier

This is one dog that must have plenty of action in its life. They love adventure and will need excitement through physical activities outdoors. Scottish Terriers can certainly live outside during the cold, as well as warm climates, but like all family dogs it is best suited to sleep inside with the rest of the family. Grooming requirements consist of about two to four thorough brushings every week. Further clipping and stripping may be necessary for coat fashion or dog shows.

Health Information

The average lifespan of a healthy Scottish Terrier is between 11 and 14 years. The only major health concerns to worry about with these dogs are CMO and vWD. Minor issues that may show up are patellar luxation, Scotty cramp, and cerebellar abiotrophy.

The Otterhound dog is a member of the scenthound family and its exact origin is unknown. Some dog enthusiasts estimate that the breed may have started in France because it resembles a look of the old French Vendeen Hound. Still, others say that the Otterhound is a mix of the Bloodhound, Welsh Harrier, Southern Hound, and a touch of Water Spaniel.

Regardless of what its genetic makeup is, these dogs became very popular as hunters throughout England. Therefore, many research materials and writings tend to associate the Otterhound as being from England.

The first documented groups of Otterhounds were kept by King John in the year 1212. During that time, the dogs were very useful in hunting down otters which were responsible for depleting fish throughout local streams. They would go after the otter within their den and then bay after finding it. Hunters would then release the dogs and send in small terriers to dispatch the otters.

The first Otterhounds to hit the United States came sometime during the beginning of the 20th century. It did not take long for the AKC to recognize the breed shortly after. However, the Otterhound never did quite become a popular house pet or show dog. It is recorded as one of today's rarest dog breeds from both the AKC and the English Kennel Club.

Personality

Otterhound dogs are packhounds, therefore they are very amiable with other dogs. Because of their genetic makeup as hunters, they love to pick up a scent and follow through with determination. The Otterhound loves to chase small animals when outside and unless thoroughly trained they may keep on the trail until out of sight. These dogs are very affectionate and great with children, but is not very responsive in terms of training.

Taking Care Of Your Otterhound

Taking care of your Otterhound will require daily exercise by brisk walks on the leash or better yet, running outside in a safe area. This dog can live well indoors but also handle cold and hot weather outside if need be. Grooming may take a bit of work due to the long hair that grows on the feet and mouth. These dogs tend to get very dirty when given the opportunity to roam outside.

Health Information

The average lifespan of a healthy Otterhound is between 12 and 14 years. Major health concerns include gastric torsion and CHD. Minor issues that may spring up are CTP and elbow dysplasia. Occasionally you may see thrombopathy and epilepsy in the Otterhound but these health problems are extremely rare.

Although the bloodhound is one of those dogs that has a lazy facial expression and is often found lying around the house, do not let these characteristics fool you. This dog can be an extremely focused and energetic tracker once he catches a trail scent. And the bloodhound is known to be very independent, tough, and often times a bit stubborn. However, he is also one of the most gentle dog breeds a family can have under their roof.

Bloodhounds are not considered to be the most easiest of training dogs, however, if you want to teach your dog about trailing tasks, the bloodhound is the number one choice. When it comes to being a family pet, this dog can be a friendly companion to have around the house. whom fair well with children.

Upkeep And Maintenance

Due to its programed genetics for hunting, the bloodhound does need an average amount of daily exercise. And although it spends most of its time being lazy and sleeping in the yard, its energy reserves can get put in full motion when on the trail. And be sure that when you are training the bloodhound he is in a safe area and cannot wander off as they some times do when their attention is focused on something.

Because of its large facial features and heavy wrinkles, the bloodhound needs to be groomed on daily basis. You must give extra cleaning care to the ears and the flaps around the eyes and gums. When it comes to its short-haired coat, upkeep is typically minimal, with just the occasional brushing now and again.

The bloodhound can be the ideal indoor or outdoor pet. And although it prefers mild temperatures, it can withstand hotter climates so long as there is plenty of shade and soft bedding to rest in. For those of you who are obsessed with a clean house, make note that the bloodhound can be a bit on the messy side.

Health Information

Since the bloodhound is a larger breed than most other dogs, its lifespan only lasts between seven and ten years. The major health concerns that are typical in this breed are CHD, gastric torsion, ectropion, otitis externa, elbow dysplasia, and skin-fold dermatitis. Minor issues in which you should ask your veterinarian to look out for is hypothyroidism.

The Toy Fox Terrier is a fun-loving dog with endless amounts of energy. They love to investigate the great outdoors and are rated as one of the most affectionate and playful members of the Toy Group. These dogs enjoy life most when playing with members of the family or other pets in the house. Great around kids, as well as the one-person household, Toy Fox Terriers make an outstanding house pet for anyone, at any age.

A Brief History Of The Toy Fox Terrier

Although the breed enjoys a high popularity rating among households in the United States, their origin only dates back to the beginning of the 1900s. Farmers had always fancied the Smooth Fox Terrier dogs in the U.S. They were useful not only as companions but for also chasing small rodents away. And for entertainment, there was nothing funnier than watching these scrappy little terriers go at it over fun and games.

Eventually these little dogs were crossed with various toy breeds. Included was the Chihuahua, Toy Manchester Terrier, and the Italian Greyhound. The resulting dog was a smaller-sized version of the Smooth Fox Terrier with a few physical differences than its larger version. The feisty temperament subsided a bit through breeding.

Although these dogs were registered with the AKC as "Smooth Fox Terriers", the name was officially changed to the Toy Fox Terrier in 1936 when the organization granted them their own breed status. In 2003 the dog made its first entrance into the show ring.

Upkeep Requirements For The Toy Fox Terrier

Owning and keeping a Toy Fox Terrier happy takes a combination of attention, love, exercise, and plenty of playtime. These dogs are like a bundle of firecrackers going off all of the time so daily activity is a must. They should have mental stimulation as well as physical play. This makes them easy to train for obedience or simple dog training routines.

Toy Fox Terriers love to dig and bark, so having access to a safe, fenced-in backyard is ideal. Living outside is not recommended. They must sleep indoors at night. They also do not tolerate cold weather well and may need extra warm bedding during the winter months. Grooming requirements call for a quick brushing about once every week or two, nothing major as their coat is short and the breed does not shed often.

Health Concerns

The average lifespan of the Toy Fox Terrier is between thirteen and fourteen years. A truly healthy breed, there are no major health concerns to worry about. Minor health problems include demodicosis, congenital hypothyroidism with goiter, patellar luxation, and Legg-Calve-Perthes. Rarely seen is vWD. Veterinarians suggest that Toy Fox Terriers get tested for DNA for congenital hypothyroidism, vWD, knee, and thyroid problems.

The Schipperke is a member of the Non-Sporting Group, with an unusual look. All black in color, their body tends to "slope" downwards from the neck to its hind quarters. A small dog breed, they weigh anywhere from 10 to 16 pounds, reaching a height of 11 to 13 inches.

The temperament of the breed is best described as a bold companion, one that is courageous an independent, yet playful and highly affectionate. Schipperke dogs are head-strong and love staying busy. They are easy to train and make great house dogs. They are moderately friendly towards other dogs and pets, with a certain level of weariness towards unknown people.

A Brief History Of The Schipperke

The listed origin of the Schipperke is said to be Belgium, dating back to the 1600s. But the exact details of the true beginnings of the breed is still covered in controversy. One theory suggests that they were boat dogs, used for various tasks for boatmen who traveled between Antwerp and Brussels.

The word schip is a Flemish word for boat, therefore many people considered the name to reference "little boatman." However, the Belgian people referred to the Schipperke as a spitz. A second theory is that these dogs were used as watchdogs and ratters for the middle class and tradesmen guilds.

Whatever the true history of the creation of the Schipperke, documented evidence of the dogs were not found until 1690. Local shoemakers from Brussels would hold competitions of their Schipperke dogs and by the 19th century the popularity of the breed grew to the point where one could be found in almost every household. By the late 1880s, the United States became home of several Schipperke dogs and its numbers have been slowly on the rise every since.

Upkeep Requirements For The Schipperke

This breed has an active need to stay busy. Mental stimulation as well as physical exertion is a must. The small size of the Schipperke helps keep its exercise needs down to a few brisk walks on the leash plus some playtime indoors or outside in the yard. But even during rest time they enjoy looking for something to do.

The Schipperke can withstand moderately cool temperatures but is not meant to live outdoors. They do not fare well in heat and should sleep inside with the family at night. Access to a fenced-in yard during the say is ideal, as these dogs love to stay occupied. Grooming requirements for the Schipperke calls for a weekly brushing of its double coat.

Health Concerns

The average lifespan of the Schipperke is between thirteen and fifteen years. The only major health concern in the breed is MPS IIIB. Minor health issues include hypothyroidism, epilepsy, and Legg-Perthes. Rarely seen is PRA, distichiasis, CHD, and entropion. Veterinarians suggest that the Schipperke get specifically tested for DNA for MP IIIB, thyroid, and hip problems.

A spunky and outgoing member of the Toy Group, the Brussels Griffon is as bold and mischievous as they come. These dogs live life brimming with confidence and unlike many overly suspicious toy breeds, they tend to befriend new dogs quite fast. Known to be creative escape artists, the Brussels Griffon has a habit of climbing. You and your family will have a blast owning one of these breeds if you enjoy a small, entertaining and interactive dog, of which also makes a loud and vocally menacing watchdog.

A Brief History Of The Brussels Griffon

The history of the Brussels Griffon dates back to the 1800s with Belgium being the area of origin. The original function of these anxious little dogs were as companions and small rodent hunting. Today they still enjoy being the center of attention as companions to loving families around the world.

Researchers claim that the bloodline of the breed probably came from the Belgian street dog (known as the Griffon d' Ecurie) and the Affenpinscher. These dogs are said to have been seen as a favorite among cab drivers in Brussels, because they were great at attracting new visitors and warding off potential thieves.

Sometime during the latter part of the 1800s these dogs were crossed with one of Holland's favorite small breeds at the time - the Pug. You can easily see Pug characteristics in today's Brussels Griffon from the shape of its head.

The breed was officially established enough to be shown at Belgian dog shows by the year 1ᘰ. Around the turn of the 1900s, the dog's popularity had skyrocketed in Belgium and the nobility took notice. World War I caused a great decline in numbers, but after the war the Brussels Griffon slowly rose back to new heights in popularity around the world.

Upkeep Requirements For The Brussels Griffon

To own and take care of a Brussels Griffon means enjoying a clownish, outgoing, and vivacious toy dog. They can be stubborn and very active so daily exercise and stimulation is a must. Due to the dog's small size they can get plenty of exercise by running around the house.

This breed cannot live outside, but if given the chance to play during moderate temperatures in a fenced-in yard it will have the time of its life. Grooming requirements for the Brussels Griffon consist of an occasional brushing, perhaps only once per week to remove dead hair.

Health Concerns

The average life span of the breed is between twelve and fifteen years. One of the healthiest breeds of the Toy Group, there are no major health concerns that run common, nor are there any minor issues that are regularly seen. On rare cases there have been patellar luxation, weak bladder, CHD, PRA, cataracts, and distichiasis. Veterinarians suggest that Brussels Griffon dogs get tested for potential eye and hip problems.

The Irish Water Spaniel is one member of the sporting group that does everything with enthusiasm and vigor. These dogs absolutely love to run for hours at a time, swim, play, and hunt. The Irish Water Spaniel also has a funny side, and tends to clown around when having a good time.

In the mix of these wonderful characteristics, this breed has a high rating in terms of training ability and makes an excellent watchdog. A bit stubborn and quite independent, the Irish Water Spaniel tends to be reserved around strange people and other pets, but is generally good around children.

A Brief History Of The Irish Water Spaniel

One of the most distinctive members of the spaniel group, not to mention one of the oldest, the Irish Water Spaniel is reported to have been depicted in various manuscripts from as long as 1,000 years ago.

During the 1100s, there is mention of these dogs by various names, including Rat Tail Spaniels, Shannon Spaniels, and Whip Tail Spaniels. The name Irish Water Spaniel has been found to be the reference to the breed from approximately 1600 and on. Sometime during that period researches documented that an Irish Water Spaniel was given as a gift to the King of France.

Now we do not exactly know whether or not the breed existed in different varieties at this time or if there were just similar breeds that resembled one another. However, what we do know is that in Ireland there were various similar spaniels in existence. They were the Tweed Spaniels, Southern Irish Spaniels, and the Northern Irish Spaniels.

The one type of spaniel listed above that is said to be mostly responsible to the influence of today's Irish Water Spaniel is the Southern Irish Spaniel, which is also known as McCarthy's Breed. The breed was part of the show ring by the late 1800s, in both the United States and Britain, and by 1875 it was considered the most popular dog of the time. Today, the Irish Water Spaniel is rarely found as a common pet or in the show ring.

Upkeep Requirements For The Irish Water Spaniel

Sporting dogs need plenty of daily exercise and the Irish Water Spaniel must have mental exercise to match. Plan on giving your Water Spaniel at least one hour of daily stimulation each day. They are inquisitive and sensitive to your needs which makes them easy to train. And a well-trained spaniel makes a great watch dog.

Like all dogs, the Irish Water Spaniel will lose its coat ever so often, but because of its curly coat the hairs do not fall off; instead they become trapped in the other hairs. This means regular brushing so that the dog's coat does not form cords and mats.

Health Concerns

The average life span of a healthy Irish Water Spaniel is between ten and twelve years. The only two major health issues that are common in this breed are otitis externa and CHD. Minor concerns include distichiasis. Rarely seen is nail-bed disease, seizures, and megaesophagus. Veterinarians suggest that all Irish Water Spaniel dogs get tested for hip problems.

Always an amazing sight to see, the Great Dane is a very large dog that is said to be the result of the Greyhound and the ancient Molossus war dog. These ancestors helped the Great Dane to be a fearless hunter of big game. By the 14th century, these dogs were widely known for their agility and strength to hunt down wild boar. They proved to have the speed, courage, strength, and stamina to take down these tough, large animals.

Eventually the Great Dane became very popular with the landed gentry because of their hunting ability, combined with its graceful, yet intimidating appearance. These were noble dogs that made the perfect addition to any upper-class family.

The early name for this dog was actually referred to as "German Boarhounds" by the local British people. When and why the name Great Dane came to define these dogs is unknown and remains a mystery.

Interestingly enough, you would assume that it's homeland would be with the Danish because of its name. However, it is actually a German breed which, in 1880, the German authorities tried to officially claimed its name as the Deutsche Dogge. However, this name did not stick and by the time these dogs arrived in America during the late 1800s, the name "Great Dane" has been the official name ever since.

Personality

The temperament of the Great Dane is a combination of dependability, friendliness, and courage. They are generally very friendly towards other household pets, humans, and even children. However, with small kids this dog is typically a bit intimidating. As with any dog, the Great Dane should be supervised when around your young ones.

Taking Care Of Your Great Dane

Upkeep for the Great Dane does not take much; daily moderate exercise in the form of a brisk walk two to three times per day is adequate. Many people assume that because of its large sturdy appearance, Great Danes can live outdoors. But the truth is that it is not suited for outdoor living at all. The best thing to do is to split the dog's time up between staying outside during the day and inside at night. Care for its coat is minimal, requiring only the occasional brushing. Also, many Great Danes tend to drool often.

Health Information

Great Danes are generally very healthy with minimal health issues that show up. Major health problems often seen are osteosarcoma, gastric portion, and cardiomyopathy. Minor issues include OCD, hypothyroidism, CHD, HOD, and Wobbler's syndrome (known as CVI). Because of its large size, the lifespan of the average Great Dane is between 7 and 10 years.

The Maltese dog has been around for thousands of years. In fact, these dogs were specifically mentioned in writings that date back to as early as 300 B.C. The Greeks also have artwork that depict Maltese dogs from as early as the 5th century. This information tells us that this breed is the most ancient of all European Toy dog breeds.

Maltese dogs were exported and distributed throughout many parts of Europe and the Asian countries. However, even though they reached so many different areas of the globe, the majority of the original Malta remained in a relatively isolated area, away from other dogs. Because of this, pure breeding over centuries kept the distinctive and noble look of this small dog.

Today's Maltese is white colored but throughout history they came in various other colors besides white. Regardless of the color changes, these dogs always kept their beautiful, long silky coat that dazzles the eye.

Maltese dogs were brought to England by the early 14th century. Here they became practically worshiped by the upper-class. Adored and pampered, wealthy families had Maltese dogs as pets to show off their nobility. Although popular at that time, it is suggested that this breed was close to extinction sometime during the early 1800s.

Soon after this time period, two Maltese dogs were brought to England from the lands of Manila to be given to Queen Victoria as a gift. However, the animals did not make it to their destination and were passed on to other people. The offspring of these two dogs became the first of their kind to be exhibited in England. They were referred to as "Maltese Terriers" even though they were not related to Terriers.

The Maltese dog breed finally made its way to the United States sometime during the late 1800s, probably around 1875 or so. At this time they were referred to as "Maltese Lion Dogs." The AKC recognized the Maltese in 1888 and has become one of the more popular dogs breeds of today.

Personality

If you are looking for a beautiful lapdog, then the Maltese should be your #1 choice. A dog to be admired and pampered, the Maltese makes a perfect pet for somebody that enjoys holding and petting their dog often. And do not let its innocent look fool you, these dogs can also be very feisty and bold. Oftentimes they will challenge dogs that are much larger in size, which makes them great watchdogs.

Taking Care Of Your Maltese

Like all pets, the Maltese must get in a bit of daily exercise. These requirements can easily be met with a quick run through the yard or a short walk on the leash. They are not outdoor dogs and are best to be kept indoors when not exercising outside. They love to be held and pampered. Grooming requirements consist of constant brushing to keep the coat clear and clean. Monthly clipping may also be needed depending upon how long you want the hair to grow.

Health Information

Maltese dogs have a lifespan of up to 15 years, with 12 to 13 being the average. There are no major health concerns to worry about, however minor issues that occasionally come up are portacaval shunt, entropion, patellar luxation, hypoglycemia, open fontanel, distishiasis, hydrocephalus, and dental problems.