The Dalmatian is easily known by its striking black-spotted pattern design. However, the origin of this interesting color pattern is still unknown. Its name however, stems from Dalmatia, which is a region located in western Yugoslavia. This dog breed was recognized by the AKC back in the year 1888 and has remained popular ever since.

Dalmatians are full of energy and have great enthusiasm for running long distances. Training this animal to behave in the home takes great patience and long obedience training hours in a safe area outside, with plenty of room to run around. The Dalmatian tends to be a little aggressive towards other animals, especially strange canines, but is known to be gentle with other pets, such as cats and even horses.

Although this dog breed makes an excellent house pet, it is a little stubborn when it comes to training. This animal may also be a little too intense and energetic for small children in the house. However, as with any dog breed, with thorough training and adequate exercise, the Dalmatian can make an excellent family companion.

Upkeep And Maintenance

Upkeep of this energetic dog breed takes a bit of an active lifestyle on the owner's part. The Dalmatian will not be happy with just a few short walks during the day. He needs to be able to run long distances and roam around outdoors. In fact, Dalmatian's make wonderful jogging partners. Just be sure to keep him in a safe area when off leash.

These dogs need to have the luxury of living indoors but also have the flexibility of being able to run outside when necessary. It does not tolerate hot temperatures very well so if he is kept outside be sure to have plenty of cool shaded areas and soft bedding for him to relax in when necessary. Companionship should be a top priority when owning a Dalmatian, so do not keep him outside longer than necessary without company.

Health Information

A very common health issue with the Dalmatian his deafness. Minor concerns include hypothyroidism, allergies, iris sphincter dysplasia, and seizures. There are occasional cases of CHD, but it is extremely rare.

Dalmatians tend to have long life spans, ranging between 12 andಏ years, and sometimes longer. Veterinarians recommend that you have this dog breed specifically tested for eye problems, hip dysplasia, thyroid, and potential hearing loss issues.

Pronounced "Lerv-chun", the Lowchen name means "Little Lion Dog." This dog breed shares its roots with several other members of the Bichon family, such as the Havanese and Bichon Frise.

The exact origin of the Lowchen is still unknown, even though several countries have all claimed to have started the breed (France, Russia, and Germany). We do know that dogs which resembled the Lowchen, with its noticeable lion trim, were found in German artwork from the 16th century.

Traditionally, the lion trim look came with the coat clipped short from the dog's last rib all the way down to the hock joint, including the hindquarters. The front legs are shaved from the elbow to slightly above the dog's pastern. The feet are also clipped and approximately one half of the tail is shaved. Whatever long hair is left over is left 'as is'.

The Lowchen dog breed almost vanished during the 1960s when its numbers had slipped down to practically nothing. Fortunately, through the help of two dog enthusiasts, the Lowchen was revived when this group of breeders imported a handful of related dogs from Germany and moved them to Britain. The animals were in such small numbers that they had to be interbred extensively which helped form the base for today's Lowchen breed in both Britain and in the United States.

The survival of the Lowchen dogs proved to be successful and the breed was entered into the AKC's miscellaneous class in the year of 1996. Then in 1999 the Lowchen was an official member of the non-sporting group.

Personality

The Lowchen is the perfect dog for a quiet family that enjoys having a lovable and high-spirited small dog around the house. With their high energy levels and friendly attitude towards people and other animals, this dog is a ball of fun to have around, always willing to please, and is easily trainable. In addition, the Lowchen makes an excellent watchdog, similar to most small dog breeds.

Taking Care Of Your Lowchen

Because of its small size, the Lowchen can have its exercise requirements taken care of by a short walk or brief play sessions on a daily basis. These dogs also enjoy mental stimulation and fun games. Lowchens are not meant to live outside but it does appreciate having the freedom to roam in an enclosed yard if possible. Grooming does require a little work, with a thorough brushing every other day. To keep its traditional lion trim, Lowchen dogs will need clipping every couple of months.

Health Information

Of the hundreds of dog breeds known around the world, only a very small percentage do not have health concerns to worry about. The Lowchen is one of them. With no major health issues and the only minor problem which is common with all small dogs (patellar luxation), the Lowchen typically lives a long and healthy life of up to 16 years.

The Canaan Dog is one of the most easily trainable breeds of the Herding Group. The look of the Canaan does not resemble any of the other herding dogs. They came from a completely different background, but shares all of the similar traits that make it a great herding dog. Medium in size, and athletic in movement, this breed is graceful, quick and agile in the field when working.

The temperament of the Canaan Dog makes it the perfect family pet. They are loving and playful around members of the household, with a never-ending need for affection. Around strangers, however, they become aloof, reserved, and ready to protect its family, making them excellent watchdogs. A natural guardian, the Canaan tends to bark more than other herding dogs.

A Brief History Of The Canaan Dog

The roots of this breed go back to the Ancient times in the land of Israel. The Canaan Dog evolved through many centuries of hardship. Researchers claim that the breed originally started out in Canaan, the biblical land. During these early times they were known as the Kelev Kanani, which means "Dog of Canaan."

When the Romans came through Israel 2000 years ago and dispersed the people, these dogs were left to survive on their own means, living off the Negev Desert and the Sebulon Coastal Plain. Male puppies were captured by the Bedouins and were used to guard livestock. This went on for many years, making the breed an excellent herding dog and protector.

The existence of the breed today is due to the efforts of a woman named Dr. Rudolphina Menzel. She found these native feral dogs, captured them, and started a breeding program. These canines quickly made headway as trustworthy messengers, fearless sentry dogs, and routinely detected mines during World War II. In 1965, the United States saw its first Canaan dog, and in 1997, the AKC officially recognized the breed as a member of the Herding Group.

Upkeep Requirements For The Canaan Dog

Herding dogs tend to require lots of daily exercise and the Canaan breed is no different. They have moderately high energy levels that can be taken care off with several brisk walks on the leash each day, plus vigorous games and mental stimulation. They especially love herding exercises.

Canaan Dogs can withstand warm and cool temperatures, making it a candidate for living outdoors, but like all dogs that form a tight bond with its human family, the best arrangement is for the Canaan to sleep indoors at night, but have access to a fenced-in yard during the day. Grooming requirements for the breed's short coat consists of only a light brushing once weekly to remove dead hairs.

Health Concerns

The average lifespan of the Canaan Dog is between twelve and thirteen years. This is one of the healthiest breeds alive today, with absolutely no major or minor health concerns. Veterinarians do suggest, however, that the Canaan get tested for potential hip problems.

The Beauceron is a highly intelligent and sensitive member of the Herding Group. This breed has the look and form of a balanced, solid, and powerful dog. They have strong jaws, an agile body, with a dense, straight coat. Today the Beauceron serves the function of a protective house dog but at one time was associated as being one of the best of herding canines.

These dogs are supremely focused when it comes to listening to its owner's commands and takes great pride in learning new things. They are a loyal breed, calm yet courageous, especially under the circumstances of guarding the family. The Beauceron is always ready to please and very patient around children. These dogs score high when it comes to training ability, watchdog accountability, and protection ability.

A Brief History Of The Beauceron

Although the area of origin for this breed is France (dating back to the 1500s), they are not entirely a French breed. The Beauceron actually originated from the plains outside of Paris (the La Beauce). These dogs were largely used as farm dogs - driving sheep, protecting cattle, and guarding the family.

It was 1863 when two types of the same dog had emerged. One was a flock-herding dog (the long coated Berger de Brie, known as the Briard) and the other a guardian (the short coated Berger de Beauce, known as the Beauceron). The first Berger de Beauce was registered in 1893 by the Societe Centrale Canine group. And the first breed club was created in 1922.

The breed was very well known as one of the best herding dogs in France, but remained hidden from outside of the area. They became well-respected in the military as service dogs during both world wars. Their functions included following trails, detecting mines, and adhering to detailed instructions. The Beauceron Club of America was formed in 1980 and in 2001 the AKC officially recognized the breed as a member of the miscellaneous class.

Upkeep Requirements For The Beauceron

Taking care of this energetic and super intelligent breed means lots of daily exercise and mental stimulation. This is not the type of dog that is happy sitting around the house all day. Without the right amount of stimulation, both mental and physical, the Beauceron becomes easily bored and will act out in a destructive manner.

The Beauceron should have plenty of time to spend outdoors in a large, fenced-in yard, but should sleep inside at night with the family. They can tolerate moderately cool and warm temperatures. Grooming requirements for the breed calls for a light brushing once per week to remove dead hairs.

Health Concerns

The average lifespan of the Beauceron is between ten and twelve years. There are no major health concerns in the breed. Minor health issues include gastric torsion and CHD. Veterinarians suggest that all Beauceron dogs get specifically tested for hip problems.

The Borzoi is a strikingly elegant-looking member of the Hound Group. With its quiet demeanor and outstanding behavior, this breed is one of the most well-mannered dogs to have as a house pet. And once outside the Borzoi loves to run and chase any small animal in sight. They are moderately affectionate, calm around children, and very sensitive to its owners. Most Borzoi dogs are a bit timid, especially around strangers.

A Brief History Of The Borzoi

Also known as the "Russian Wolfhound", the Borzoi breed has its origins in Russia and has been around since the Middle ages. The history of these dogs go back to a time when they were bred by the Russian aristocracy for several hundred years.

Even as early as the 13th century these dogs were used to course hare. To increase the breed's size and improve the coat, they were crossed with coursing hounds, Russian sheepdogs, and bearhounds. The result was a dog that could hunt wolf in cold weather. They would often hunt in three's - 2 males and 1 female - which were unleashed when a wolf was in sight, taking the animal down with precision until the hunter arrived.

By the time the 1800s came about there were seven types of Borzoi dogs in Russia. The Borzoi that we know of today come from the Perchino type. Once the Russian Revolution took place, many Borzois were killed. The only way the breed survived was due to the caring of foreign royalty that handled several Borzoi kennels. Today the breed is a popular show dog that can often be seen modeling in magazines and also used as a coursing dog.

Upkeep Requirements For The Borzoi

As with most members of the Hound Group the Borzoi needs plenty of physical exercise. Daily walks on the leash in addition to several laps outside in an open field are the ideal activities for the breed. They also love to sprint. Access to a fenced-in yard during the day is ideal.

These dogs can also live outside but should sleep indoors at night with the rest of the family. They do not tolerate heat well but can handle moderately cool temperatures. Grooming requirements for the Borzoi dog calls for heavy brushings about three times weekly. Their coat is very long and tends to shed often.

Health Concerns

The average lifespan of the Borzoi is between ten and twelve years. The only major health concern in the breed is gastric torsion. Minor health problems that may show up are hypothyroidism and cardiomyopathy. Veterinarians suggest that the Borzoi get specifically tested for cardiac and thyroid problems.

The Tibetan Terrier is an all-purpose dog and a proud member of the Non-Sporting Group. They have an adorable, shaggy appearance, with a square proportion, and although compact in size - maintains physical power and muscularity. They stand at approximately 15 to 16 inches and weigh anywhere from 18 to 30 lbs (depending on gender).

The temperament of the Tibetan Terrier is that of a gentle, loving canine. Somehow these dogs know how to lay on the charm which makes it easy for anyone to want to take one home. They are a loyal companion that enjoys the quiet life if indoor living, while at the same time can be depended on to roam the great outdoors on an adventurous hike or walk. The Tibetan Terrier is friendly towards other dogs and pets, but somewhat reserved around strange people.

A Brief History Of The Tibetan Terrier

The exact history of the Tibetan Terrier is just as mysterious as the lands it comes from. It is said that these dogs were bred some 2,000 years ago inside Lamaist monasteries. Although they were used to help with working tasks, the purpose of the breed was as companions and holy dogs, "bringers of luck" so to speak.

You have probably read a few miraculous stories of these dogs. One such story claims that the village of which the breed lived was completely blocked off when an earthquake destroyed the route into the valley, during the 14th century. In order to cross, the people had to cover treacherous pathways, of which killed many. It is said that anyone that was carrying a Tibetan Terrier made it through safely.

None of these dogs were ever sold. They were held in such high regard that the only time anyone outside of Tibet had one was when it was given as a special gift. One such man received this gift of a Tibetan Terrier and is responsible for breeding further litters, thus bringing world wide attention to them. His name was Dr. Grieg and the year was 19Ǵ.

The breed was first recognized outside of its homeland in India. The dogs then made their way to English dog shows in 1937. The United States saw the Tibetan Terrier during the 1950s and in 1973, the breed was officially recognized by the AKC.

Upkeep Requirements For The Tibetan Terrier

This terrier may be the ideal house dog to have relaxing and quietly sitting by your side indoors, but once outside it loves to run and look for adventure. A few walks on the leash each day plus some fun games in the yard is the perfect way to keep the Tibetan Terrier in shape and mentally stimulated.

This breed can withstand moderately hot and cool temperatures but is not meant to live outdoors. They are best suited to either be a total indoor dog, or an indoor dog that has access to a fenced-in area outside during the day. Either way, the Tibetan forms a very close bond with its family and makes a dependable watchdog. Grooming requirements for the breed consists of a good brushing of its shaggy coat twice weekly.

Health Concerns

The average lifespan of the Tibetan Terrier is between twelve and fifteen years. Major health concerns that run common in the breed are PRA and lens luxation. Minor health issues include CHD, hypothyroidism, cataracts, patellar luxation, and ceroid lipofuscinosis. Rarely seen is distichiasis. Veterinarians suggest that Tibetan Terrier dogs get tested for hip, eye, and thyroid problems.

The Bullmastiff is mistakenly thought of as one of Britain's oldest dog breeds. However, it is actually the Mastiff that is the oldest breed. The Bullmastiff, on the other hand, is a fairly new dog breed that has recently developed. History does show a few crosses between these two dogs as early as the 1790s, but there is no direct evidence that suggests these two strains were used to breed on.

The definitive documentation of the Bullmastiff started towards the end of the 19th century. Their function at the time was to protect large estates from poachers that were causing huge problems with gamekeepers.

In order to stop the poachers and protect the gamekeepers' livelihoods, Bullmastiff dogs were used for guarding and protection. These dogs were tough, courageous, and would wait quietly until a poacher arrived, then attack on command.

Before Bullmastiffs were created, the only dogs available for such protection abilities was the Bulldog and the regular Mastiff. The problem was that the Bulldog was not big enough and the Mastiff was not fast enough. By mixing these two breeds together, the Bullmastiff was created and made the perfect land guardian.

In time, many breeders decided to stop mixing the two strains and started breeding Bullmastiff dogs to be totally pure. The result was the ideal dog that is approximately 60% to 70% Mastiff and the rest Bulldog. The pure breeding attempt was successful and by the early 1920s the English Kennel Club officially recognized the Bullmastiff. The AKC followed with their official recognition of the breed in 1933.

Personality

The temperament of the average healthy Bullmastiff is one that is quiet, gentle, and very laid-back. In fact, these dogs do not arouse easily, but once startled and focused on an aggressor, they are fearless and can be quite a threat. Needless to say, Bullmastiff dogs are rated as one of the best dog breeds to have for watchdog and protection ability. They are great with children but it is highly suggested that they are raised with them instead of bringing home an adult Bullmastiff to the home with kids. These dogs can also be a bit aggressive towards strange dogs and other animals.

Taking Care Of Your Bullmastiff

Bullmastiff dogs are fairly large and need daily exercise to keep them in top shape. Like other large dogs, if there is not enough exercise and too much food, obesity can become a problem. However, a few long walks on the leash each day should do just fine. This is one dog that does not fare well in hot weather. They are generally indoor dogs and will need a large bed to stretch out in. Bullmastiffs also tend to drool a lot, as well as snore. Grooming is minimal, with the occasional brushing to remove dead hair.

Health Information

The average lifespan of a Bullmastiff is approximately 10 years. Veterinarians suggest that all Bullmastiff dogs get tested specifically for hip and elbow problems, as well as potential eye issues. Major health concerns that seem to be common among this breed are CHD, gastric torsion, and elbow dysplasia. Minor issues that may pop up, but are rare, are mast cell tumors, hemangiosarcoma, lymphosarcoma, SAS, hypothyroidism, and osteosarcoma.

The Australian Terrier is one of the best all-around house pets a family could own. They are caring and affectionate, playful and friendly, yet will bark incessantly upon approaching strangers - making them an outstanding watchdog.

When it comes to dog training, the Australian Terrier is moderately easy to train and enjoys learning new tricks. They are quite clever and one of the most obedient members of the Terrier Group. They get along well with other dogs and pets, but reserved around strangers.

A Brief History Of The Australian Terrier

As its name suggests, this breed originated from Australia and dates back to the early 1ᙄs. It was first created in Tasmania and is one of the smallest sized dogs of the working terriers. Its bloodline comes from several European breeds and shares a very common history with the Silky Terrier.

The rough-coated terriers of Tasmania were used for several jobs, namely at killing small rodents and snakes, acting as a watchdog, and helping to control livestock. This root stock was crossed with a variety of other breeds - the Manchester, Skye, Scotch, Dandie Dinmont, and the Yorkshire Terrier.

This new breed was not only as useful as its forebears, it also had a striking appearance. It went through several name changes before being officially coined as the Australian Terrier. Names such as the Toy Terrier, Blue and Tan Terrier, and Blue Terrier were all used. In 1925 it made its way to the United States and gain AKC recognition in 1960

Upkeep Requirements For The Australian Terrier

Owning an Australian Terrier is all about the pampering. These dogs thrive on human contact and love nothing more than to spend hours upon hours with the family. They have high energy levels for such a small member of the Terrier Group which means plenty of daily exercise through running outside, brisk walks on the leash, and vigorous games in the yard.

These dogs can tolerate cool and warm temperatures but are not made to live outside They must be very close to the family. Australian Terrier dogs are a devoted breed, and make great watchdogs. Grooming requirements call for a weekly brushing to keep its wiry coat free of dead hairs and a bit of trimming around the feet.

Health Concerns

The average lifespan of the Australian Terrier is between twelve and fourteen years. There are no major health concerns in the breed. Minor health problems that are common include diabetes and patellar luxation. Rarely seen are seizures, Legg-Perthes, and cruciate ligament rupture. And there are no tests recommended by veterinarians to check for future disease.

I would like something purebred,and non-shedding,of toy size.I need it to be house broken before I take ownership.I tried to house-train 2 other dogs,but I just couldnt do it.The dog could be up to 7 years old,and im not picky on breed,as long as it is low to no shedding.

The Vizsla is one sporting dog that not only enjoys hunting all day, but his physical attributes make him look the part. Always poised and ready to run, this breed makes an excellent close-working gun dog and a talented pointer.

Vizsla dogs are on the never-ending mission to sniff out birds and if left alone for long periods of time without room to run and play, they can become quite upset and destructive. Not all Vizslas have the same personality - some are on the shy side, others are overly-anxious, while many have a stubbornness character.

A Brief History Of The Vizsla

Our research leads to writings on Falconry from the Middle Age period that describes dogs that very closely resemble the Vizsla. It is said that the breed were from groups of canines that were collected by the Magyars, people who traveled across Europe before landing and setting up villages in Hungary, over 1000 years ago.

The plains of Hungary were abundant with game and the local hunters needed a dog that was fast, could be a close-working dog, point and retrieve, and trail mammals over rough terrain. The breed further increased in popularity through the 18th century but declined in numbers by the end of the 19th century.

The Vizsla breed was then revived by dog enthusiasts through careful breeding. During World War II the dogs were seen in countries all over the globe. This was largely due to the Hungarians fleeing Russian occupation and had brought their dogs with them.

When the breed showed up in United States it did not take long for the Vizsla to become popular with American dog lovers. Their talented hunting abilities were quickly noticed, as well as the dog's strikingly handsome appearance. The Vizsla was officially recognized by the AKC in 쌨.

Upkeep Requirements For The Vizsla

These canines were bred specifically to be a close-working dogs so the Vizsla has enough energy to literally run all day long. Therefore, they cannot be expected to be content with only a few short walks on the leash. It needs a large open field to roam during the day. Small apartment living is not meant for this dog.

Grooming the Vizsla is minimal due to its close-cut coat. The occasional brushing every couple of weeks to remove dead hairs will suffice. These dogs can live outside if the climate is warm but prefers to sleep inside with its family, especially if the weather is cold.

Health Concerns

The average lifespan of the Vizsla dog can last anywhere from ten to fourteen years. The only major health concern reported in the breed is epilepsy. Minor issues include lymphosarcoma and CHD. Rarely seen is hypothyroidism, dwarfism, PRA, tricuspid valve dysplasia, and persistent right aortic arch. Veterinarians suggest that Vizsla dogs get tested for potential hip and thyroid problems.