Bouvier des Flandres

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Description

The Bouvier des Flandres is a powerfully built, compact, rough-coated dog of rugged appearance. The Bouvier des Flandres is agile, spirited and bold in a calm and steady manner. The Bouvier des Flandres is easy going but aloof, and they can sometimes be serious or moody. His herding instincts will keep him close to home. Generally used in police work and helping the blind, they loves the company of people.

Size of Male: Height: 24.5-27.5 inches Weight: 69-90 pounds

Size of Female: Height: 23.5-26.5 inches Weight: 69-90 pounds

Temperament

The Bouvier des Flandres is an obedient dog with a pleasant nature. The Bouvier des Flandres looks intimidating, but is actually calm and gentle. Bouvier des Flandres are enthusiastic, responsible, even tempered and fearless. An excellent guard and watchdog that is easy to train. This breed needs an experienced owner to prevent dominance problems. He should be socialized well at an early age to avoid over-protectiveness and shyness. A good family dog, the Bouvier des Flandres likes, and is excellent with children. The Bouvier des Flandres is very adaptable and goes about its business quietly and calmly. This dog’s loyalty is world famous. Behavior with other animals depends on individual temperaments and character. Provided they are properly socialized at an early age, chances are they will get along well with cats and other pets, but be careful with non-canine pets. They are usually good with other dogs if they are raised with them from puppyhood. Slow to mature both in body and mind. It does not fully mature until the dog reaches the age of 2-3 years. They can be suspicious and reserved with strangers and protective of their family.

Living Conditions

The Bouvier des Flandres will do ok in an apartment if it is sufficiently exercised. Bouvier des Flandres are relatively inactive indoors and will do best with at least a large yard. The large yard can help the Bouvier des Flandres to exercise more as they are relatively inactive indoors and prevent boredom.

Upkeep

The Bouvier des Flandres is not a breed that can be put aside until the mood strikes to play with it. Bouvier des Flandres needs daily exercise and daily interaction, and a lot of both. Bouvier des Flandres loves the chance to herd, but its requirements can also be met with a good jog, a very long walk or a vigorous play session. It can live outdoors in temperate to cool climates. It makes a good house dog, however, and would prefer access to both house and yard. Its harsh coat needs combing once or twice weekly, plus scissoring and shaping (clipping for pets and stripping for show dogs) about every three months.

Health

Major concerns: Hip dysplasia, Elbow dysplasia, heart issues, glaucoma

Minor concerns: Hypothyroidism

Life expectancy: 10 – 12 years 

Boston Terrier

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Description

The Boston Terrier was developed to be a companion and watchdog. The Boston Terrier is easy to care for, small in size and has a delightful disposition, they are oudor free dogs who rarely shed. The Boston Terrier loves to go for walks or rides in the car, and the Boston Terrier is one of the most popular breeds in the United States because of his affectionate nature. The Boston Terrier is a compact, well-muscled dog, his head usually in proportion to his size. A joy to have around, he can sometimes be determined and self-willed.

Size of Male: Height: 15-17 inches Weight: 10-25 pounds

Size of Female: Height: 15-17 inches Weight: 10-25 pounds

Temperament

Though bred at first for use in dog fights, today’s Boston Terrier has been bred to have less aggressive tendencies. Boston Terrier is gentle, alert, very intelligent, and well-mannered. Enthusiastic and occasionally rambunctious, the Boston Terrier has a good sense of humor. They are very sensitive to the tone of one’s voice. This breed likes to learn and therefore is not difficult to train. Their intelligence ensures they pick things up quickly. Sometimes they can be somewhat willful. Some owners have reported that their dogs are good watchdogs barking only when necessary, while other owners have reported their female Boston Terriers do not bark at the door at all. Most are reliable with children, especially good with elderly people and very friendly with strangers. The Boston Terrier is playful, very affectionate and likes to be part of the family. They generally get along well with non-canine pets. Some males are dominant and may fight with other dogs, also these little dogs may be difficult to housebreak.

Living Conditions

Boston Terriers are good for apartment as well as country living. Boston Terriers are relatively inactive indoors and do ok without a yard. But as with other dogs, ensuring they get enough exercise daily is critical to get your dog healthy and entertained. Boston Terrier are sensitive to weather extremes. So to make sure the temperature is right for them.

Upkeep

Boston Terrier are lively dogs that need daily exercise and interaction with its family. The Boston Terrier loves games, and most of its exercise requirements can be met with a romp in the yard or a short walk on leash. Boston Terrier however, cannot live outdoors. Some Boston Terriers wheeze and snore, and many don’t tolerate heat well. The coat requires only minimal care, an occasional brushing to remove dead hairs.

Health

Major concerns: none

Minor concerns: cataract, heart diseases, patellar luxation, stenotic nares

Life expectancy: 10 – 14 years 

Borzoi

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Description

The Borzoi are gentle, well-mannered dogs who are graceful and beautiful at the same time, yet they enjoy having fun and racing games. Generally known as the Russian Wolfhound, the Borzoi is a tall, elegant dog who’s body is designed for speed. Borzois are affectionate with their owners and tolerant of other dogs. Puppies grow rapidly and should not be overworked until fully mature which is one year of age.

Size of Male: Height: 28-32 inches Weight: 75-105 pounds

Size of Female: Height: 26-30 inches Weight: 60-85 pounds

Temperament

The Borzoi is a sweet, undemanding and undemonstrative dog. Borzois are proud and self-aware dogs that are extremely loyal to their family. When necessary Borzois will protect their family. Intelligent and easy to train. The training of this breed has to be based upon mutual respect. They cannot be trained to perform, but they can learn basic requirements for living with you. Cat-like, silent and docile, but can be willful and snappish if pushed too far. They like to roam and are incredibly fast. Good with other dogs but should not be trusted with small non-canine pets such as cats and rabbits. The Borzois snap can kill a small animal in a second. Socialize them very well with cats and other pets at as young an age as possible, but remember the Borzoi will always be a hunter that will race after a fleeing animal. The Borzoi are noble dogs that get along fairly well with children, but it is not ideally suited for being a child’s companion as it does not take kindly to teasing and are certainly not playmates. They prize their rest and do not like rough play. They do not like intrusive strangers. During the growing stage, these dogs need a highly nutritional diet.

Living Conditions

A Borzoi will do ok in an apartment if sufficiently exercised. Borzois are relatively inactive indoors and are so peaceful it might escape notice, but outside they need plenty of space to walk and run – so it will do best with at least an average-sized yard. In the city, the Borzoi should only be let off the lead in a safe, enclosed space to prevent attacking incidents and danger of running away.

Upkeep

The Borzoi needs the chance to exert itself daily. Although a long walk can satisfy most of a Borzoi’s needs, it should be combined with a sprint in a large safe area. The Borzoi’s coat, which is characteristically fuller on males, needs brushing or combing two or three times a week; Sometimes they can also shed a lot. Borzois can live outdoors in temperate climates as long as they have soft bedding and good shelter, but most do best as house dogs with access to a yard.

Health

Major concerns: gastric torsion

Minor concerns: cardiomyopathy, cataracts, hypothyroidism

Life expectancy: 10 – 12 years 

Border Terrier

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Description

The Border Terrier is a small spunky terrier with a coarse, wiry double coat. Border Terrier has dark lively eyes, a short muzzle, black nose and small ears, which fold forward into a “V” shape. The jaw of a Border Terrier should meet in a scissors bite. The tail is relatively short and tapers from a thicker base to the tip. It is carried level with the back unless the dog is very excited. Its limbs are not heavily boned. The Border Terrier comes in red, blue and tan, grizzle and tan and tan. Normally the feet should not be white but it is possible that there is some white spots on the chest area.

Size of Male: Height: 10-11 inches Weight: 13-15.5 pounds

Size of Female: Height: 10-11 inches Weight: 11.5-14 pounds

Temperament

The Border Terrier is alert and lively, but mild-mannered. Especially affectionate with children and willing to please, the Border Terrier is relatively easy to train. Border Terrier are hardy, scruffy little terriers and a bold hunter. Socialize them well and get puppies accustomed to loud noises and city situations while they are still young to avoid excessive timidity. It will bark, but it is normally not aggressive. Puppies are very active, but they will mellow as an adult. Border Terriers like to dig and must be securely fenced in. Many owners use free-standing dog runs or additional reinforcements along the bottom of their fences. They may get themselves stuck in tight holes, though they can usually wiggle their way out. They are not trustworthy with hamsters, rabbits, rats or birds, but will generally get along with other dogs. If the puppy is raised with cats, family cats will not generally be a problem. The dog shouldn’t be trusted with other people’s cats however. If you have two Border Terriers, it is best to have a male and a female. This breed does not do well when left alone all day. They are economical to feed, for they will thrive on a cup of dry dog food per day.

Living Conditions

The Border Terrier will do ok in an apartment if it is sufficiently exercised. Border Terrier are moderately inactive indoors and a small yard is sufficient. Do take note that you have to bring your dog for exercise to ensure that it stays healthy and does not become destructive due to boredom.

Upkeep

The Border Terrier likes activity and needs either a good walk on leash, a vigorous game session or an off-lead expedition in a safe area every day. Border Terrier can live outdoors in temperate climates, but it does much better when allowed to divide its time between house and yard. The harsh coat of Border Terrier needs brushing weekly, plus stripping of dead hairs about four times yearly to maintain its clean outline.

Health

Major concerns: Epilepsy and Heart problems

Minor concerns: Cataracts, Lens luxation

Life expectancy: 12 – 15 years 

Border Collie

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Description

The Border Collie is a highly intelligent, hard-working dog that responds quickly and eagerly to training. Border Collie is the world’s premiere sheepdog unsurpassed as a sheepdog in terms of patience, agility and stamina. Border Collie thrives on games and are willing to please. The Border Collie is even tempered, but he needs constant physical and mental activity for a well-balanced dog. The border collie if trained properly will excel in obedience competitions. They are very agile, and have a well-proportioned body of lean muscle. He can spend hours stalking sheep, cattle, goats, ducks, chickens, large ants or anything that congregates into a herd or flock. If they have insufficient activity they will find work to do. Don’t be surprised if you find that it is herding your children!

Size of Male: Height: 20-23 inches Weight: 30-45 pounds

Size of Female: Height: 18-21 inches Weight: 30-45 pounds

Temperament

The Border Collie is a very intelligent and responsive dog. Border Collie excels at obedience, agility and Frisbee. Border Collie thrives on praise, is sensitive and very trainable. The Border Collies are commonly used in the agility competitions, as sports like agility are right the this intelligent dogs alley. The Border Collie is highly energetic with great stamina. Provided it gets sufficient activity to keep it occupied and ample exercise, the Border Collie will get along quite happily with other dogs, and children. However, the Border Collie may be aggressive with other dogs of the same sex. They should not be trusted with small non-canine pets, but there are plenty of Border Collies that live and get along with family cats. This breed should be very well socialized as a puppy to prevent shyness. To be truly happy, it needs a lot of: ongoing attention, extensive daily exercise, and a job to do. For those who wish to reach high levels in dog sports, the Border Collie is a gift from heaven. They are not ideal pets for people who have no plans to spend a lot of time with them. These dogs are too intelligent to lie around the house all day with nothing to do. They can become neurotic if they are left alone for long periods, leading to many behavior problems. They do best with an experienced owner that has lots of time to spend with the dog. The adolescent Border Collie often goes through a phase where he challenges his master’s authority. Some are highly reactive and sound sensitive, making them a poor choice for families with young children.

Living Conditions

The Border Collie is not recommended for apartment life. Border Collies are very active indoors and do best with increased amount of space. Border Collie will do fine in a kennel provided it has daily activity and can see plenty of its handler. This breed is not suited to life chained up in the back yard all day.

Upkeep

Few dogs are as work-oriented as the Border Collie. Border Collie is a dog that needs a job. Border Collie needs a lot of physical and mental activity every day to satisfy its quest for work. It can live outdoors in temperate to cool climates, but it enjoys being with its family inside as well. This is a dog that cannot live in an apartment and that should preferably have ready access to a yard. Its coat needs brushing or combing about twice weekly.

Health

Major concerns: Hip dysplasia

Minor concerns: Progressive retinal atrophy, lens luxation, Collie eye anomaly, Heart problems, Osteochodrosis dissecans

Life expectancy: 10 – 14 years 

Bloodhound

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Description

The Bloodhound is a powerful dog that stands over more ground than is usual with hounds of other breeds. Bloodhound’s skin is thin to the touch and extremely lose. Bloodhound is powerful, yet graceful. The Bloodhound is good with children and other animals with his gentle nature. He has a tenancy to drool, but is otherwise a very clean dog. He has an outstanding ability as a scent hound, superior to other hounds, which has made him very useful in police investigations.

Size of Male: Height: 25-27 inches Weight: 90-110 pounds

Size of Female: Height: 23-25 inches Weight: 80-100 pounds

Temperament

The Bloodhound is a kind, patient, noble, mild-mannered and lovable dog. Bloodhound are gentle, affectionate and excellent with children. The Bloodhound is a true companion with a good-nature. These dogs are so good-natured that they will lie there and meekly let children clamber all over them. This breed loves all the attention they receive from children. Very energetic outdoors and boisterous when young, determined and independent. It needs firm, but gentle training. This breed tends to lean towards willfulness. The new owner of a Bloodhound will need to have plenty of patience and possesses great tactics for training to succeed. The most important consideration is to be consistent – these dogs know fully well how successfully they can get around with a pathetic look and make use of it to get their own way. Do not expect too much by way of obedience from this dog – they are naturally gentle animals but they do have minds of their own and will often make their own decisions rather than following your orders. Males go through puberty in-between the age of 1 and 2 years. They can be quite a handful at that time, but after age 2, with the proper training, stimulation and consistency, they are wonderful dogs. Some Bloodhounds can be timid. Sensitive, gentle and shy, a Bloodhound becomes devoted to its master and gets along well with people. It is rarely vicious, although they can be aggressive with dogs of the same sex. Bloodhounds have a tendency to howl, snore, and drool a lot. 90% of Bloodhounds cannot even be walked off leash. They flee, and when they get on a scent, instinct drives them to find the end of the trail.

Living Conditions

The Bloodhound will do ok in an apartment if sufficiently exercised. Bloodhounds are relatively inactive indoors and do best with at least an average-sized yard. It is important to remember to always keep it on a leash though to ensure that it does not wander off and get lost

Upkeep

As a hunting hound, the Bloodhound needs a good deal of daily exercise. Bloodhound were bred to trail through any hardship, and once hooked on a trail it cannot be called off. Bloodhound thus must be exercised in a safe area. The Bloodhound drools a lot, so its facial wrinkles require daily cleaning; the ear tips drag in food and must also be kept clean. The ear canals also need regular cleaning for good health. Coat care is minimal, requiring only occasional brushing or wiping. Bloodhound can live outside in temperate climates if they are given plenty of shelter and soft, warm bedding. Most do best as indoor and outdoor dogs, a little here and a little there; note, however, that this is not the breed for people obsessed with cleanliness in the house!

Health

Major concerns: entropion, gastric torsion, otitis external, ectropion, skin-fold dermatitis, hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia

Minor concerns: Hypothyroidism

Life expectancy: 7 – 10 years 

Black and Tan Coonhound

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Description

The Black and Tan Coonhound is also known as the American Black and Tan Coonhound. The Black and Tan Coonhound varies in coloring, and there are many similarities among the six types of Coonhounds; the Black and Tan Coonhound, the Blue Tick Coonhound, the English Coonhound, the Plott Hound, the Redbone Coonhound and the Treeing Walker. Used for trailing and treeing raccoon, Black and Tan Coonhound runs his game entirely by scent. Black and Tan Coonhound does have a tendency to stray and needs to be closely supervised to prevent it from getting lost.

Size of Male: Height: 25-27 inches Weight: 65 – 110 pounds

Size of Female: Height: 23-25 inches Weight: 55 – 100 pounds

Temperament

A quick-to-follow, intelligent, loyal and good-natured hunter and companion, the Black and Tan Coonhound pleases hunter and owner alike. The Black and Tan Coonhound is an alert and eager dog who is very dedicated to his work. Some sources say Black and Tan Coonhound are a bit aggressive, but it will listen to his owner if well trained. Other sources say he is gentle and friendly with people. Some individuals are protective and are a bit reserved with strangers. They are usually best with older considerate children. Sometimes they can play rough and this dog can be willful, requiring firm, patient and on-going training. They may howl if they are left alone too much. Do not let this breed off the leash in an unsafe area, as they may take off after an interesting scent. Some Black and Tan tend to be aggressive with other strange dogs. There are two types of Black and Tan Coonhounds: show and field. The show types are a bit larger and maybe somewhat less energetic and work oriented, and therefore tend to make better pets. This breed drools and slobbers.

Living Conditions

The Black and Tan Coonhound is not recommended for apartment life. Black and Tan Coonhound is relatively inactive indoors and will do best with at least a large yard. Apartment life however is not impossible as with enough exercise to keep the dog healthy and consistency on the owner’s side, the dog can live in the apartment as well without destructive behavior.

Upkeep

The Black and Tan Coonhound is a dog that can run for miles, although it is usually content with a moderate jog or long walk, along with an occasional excursion into the field. Black and Tan Coonhound can wander if it catches a scent, so a safe area is mandatory. It is also better if the dog has a lead attached when outside to prevent the dog from running off chasing after a scent even if it is well trained. Black and Tan Coonhound’s coat needs only occasional brushing. Most coonhound drool to some extent, and the face may need regular wiping. Their ears should also be checked and cleaned regularly.

Health

Major concerns: Hip dysplasia

Minor concerns: Hypothyroidism, Ectropion

Life expectancy: 10 – 12 years 

Bichon Frise

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Description

The Bichon Frise is also known as the Tenerife dog or the Bichon Tenerife The Bichon Frise is a small, sturdy, white powder puff of a dog whose merry temperament is evident by his plumed tail carried jauntily over his back. The Bichon Frise loves to be the center of attention and is always eager to please. Bichon Frise makes a delightful and amusing companion. Gentle-mannered, sensitive, very playful and affectionate the Bichon Frise is good with children and other pets.

Size of Male: Height: 9.5-11.5 inches Weight: 12-18 pounds

Size of Female: Height: 9.5-11.5 inches Weight: 12-18 pounds

Temperament

The Bichon Frise is an appealing little white dog that loves human company. The Bichon Frise has an independent spirit, is intelligent, affectionate, bold and lively. Bichon Frise is charming, gentle and is not a yapper. It has a self-assuring, happy temperament that is easy to live with. These bright little dogs are easy to train and just loves everyone. They need people to be happy. They are naturally sociable and are happiest when they are part of a family that takes them everywhere. This sociable trait also means that they are fine in the company of other dogs & pets and are excellent with children. Used as watchdogs and to perform tricks, this breed is competitive and obedient. Like a lot of smaller breeds, the Bichon may be difficult to housebreak.

Living Conditions

The Bichon Frise can live in an apartment if it gets enough exercise. Bichon Frise are fairly active indoors and will do ok without a yard. If your bichon fries starts destroying thing though it is a sign it does not have enough exercise. Do ensure that you bring your dog out for exercise if you see it is very lazy and inactive to ensure that it does not get bored.

Upkeep

Although small, the Bichon Frise is an active dog and needs daily exercise. Bichon Frise’s needs can be met with a vigorous indoor game or, better, a romp in the yard or a short walk on leash. The white powder-puff coat of Bichon Frise needs brushing and combing every other day, plus scissoring and trimming every two months. It doesn’t shed, but the loose hairs become entangled in the coat and can mat. It may be difficult to keep white in some areas. This is not a dog that should live outdoors. Do also ensure that ear hair is kept short to prevent ear infections

Health

Major concerns: Cataracts, Progressive retinal atrophy, acute and chronic skin allergies, Epilepsy, Pancreatitis, diabetes, Hyperadrenocorticism, Hypothyroidism

Minor concerns: Patellar Luxation, ear infections, heart disease, Cataracts, Progressive retinal atrophy

Life expectancy: 12 – 15 years 

Bernese Mountain Dog

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Description

The Bernese Mountain Dog is a striking, tri-colored, large dog who thrives in cold weather. The Bernese Mountain Dog does not do well in very hot or humid climates because of its heavy coat. Possessing a sweet character in nature, the Bernese Mountain Dog is an outgoing, affectionate dog which loves children and is very loyal to his family. He is a one-owner dog and may find it difficult to adjust to a new owner if introduced after 18 months of age.

Size of Male: Height: 24.5 – 28 inches Weight: 90-120 pounds

Size of Female: Height: 22 – 26 inches Weight: 70-115 pounds

Temperament

Bernese Mountain Dogs are gentle, cheerful and love children. Bernese Mountain Dog are very intelligent, easy to train and are natural watchdogs, but not overly aggressive. A Bernese Mountain Dog is a friend for life. They are very loyal and may have trouble adjusting to a new owner after they are 18 months old. Self-confident, alert and good-natured. They are fairly friendly with strangers, and are generally good with other pets and dogs. They are never sharp or shy. These dogs may be slow to mature, remaining boisterous and puppy-like for quite a while. The Bernese needs to be with people and not relegated to the backyard or kennel run. Like any dog, the Bernese Mountain Dog should be well socialized as a puppy. These dogs are sensitive and should be trained gently.

Living Conditions

Bernese Mountain Dog is not recommended for apartment life. Bernese Mountain Dogs are relatively inactive indoors and will do best with at least a large, fenced-in yard. Prefers cool climates because the thick coat makes the Bernese Mountain Dog uncomfortable in warm weather.

Upkeep

Bernese Mountain Dog enjoys the outdoors, especially in cold weather. Bernese Mountain Dog needs daily but moderate exercise, either a good hike or a walk on leash. Bernese Mountain Dog enjoys pulling. Although the Bernese mountain dog is not an apartment dog, it can be trained to be one with enough exercise daily. Although it can physically live outdoors in temperate to cold climates, it is so in tune with its human family that it cannot be relegated to life alone in the yard. Inside, it needs plenty of room to stretch out. Its coat needs brushing one or two times weekly, much more often when shedding.

Health

Major concerns: Hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, Histocytosis

Minor concerns: Fragmented coronoid process, Gastric torsion, Progressive retinal atrophy, Patellar luxation

Life expectancy: 7 – 9 years 

Belgian Tervuren

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Description

The Belgian Tervuren is one of four Belgian Sheepdogs. Belgian Tervueren is a well-balanced medium size dog, elegant in appearance, standing squarely on all fours. Belgian Tervuren are like a picture of power and grace. Belgian Tervuren are intelligent, courageous, alert and devoted to his master. They excel in an active family environment, but are also wonderful working dogs whether in obedience, herding, agility or tracking. They will adapt to both urban or a country environment as long as he has space to exercise.

Size of Male: Height: 24-26 inches Weight: 55-75 pounds

Size of Female: Height: 22-24 inches Weight: 40-70 pounds

Temperament

Belgian Tervuren is a very smart and obedient dog. Belgian Tervuren is serious and watchful with strong protective and territorial instincts. Some Belgian Tervurens are very shy or sensitive. This breed needs extensive socialization from an early age, and firm, but not harsh, training from an experienced master. If you are harsh or overbearing they will become uncooperative. Belgian Tervurens are instinctively protective so they should be trained and socialized very well from an early age. Breeders should socialize puppies right from birth. Good for working and competition obedience. These dogs make excellent police and guard dogs. This type of work is currently their main occupation. They do however, make excellent pets. They are ever-watchful, alert and loyal, and they thrive on loving companionship. They are good with children if socialized well with them. The Belgian Tervuren needs to be part of the family and not locked up in a kennel. It does best with ample time, attention, training and companionship. If this breed is ignored, it will find ways to entertain itself, often at the owner’s expense.

Living Conditions

The Belgian Tervuren will do okay in an apartment if it is sufficiently exercised. Belgian Tervuren is moderately active indoors and will do best with at least an average-sized yard. Belgian Tervuren prefers cool climates, but adapts well to others. It can live outdoors but would much rather be with his people. Similar to other sheepdogs, if not exercised or given enough attention, it may lead to having destructive behavior due to boredom

Upkeep

The Belgian Tervuren needs strenuous activity, either a long walk or jog or a vigorous play or work session every day. Belgian Tervuren as with other sheepdog enjoys herding, which is the ideal exercise. Belgian Tervuren can live outside in temperate to cool climates, but it does best when allowed access to both a house and yard. Its double coat needs brushing and combing twice weekly, more often when shedding.

Health

Major concerns: Epilepsy

Minor concerns: Skin allergies, Hip dysplasia, Thyroid disease, Progressive retinal atrophy

Life expectancy: 10 – 14 years