Pembroke Welsh Corgi

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Description

The Pembroke Welsh Corgi is a most agreeable small house dog with an affectionate nature. Pembroke Welsh Corgi has become closely associated with the British monarchy. In 1933 the Duke of York obtained for his daughter a Pembroke Welsh Corgi puppy and it remains a royal favorite. The Corgi is an intelligent and remarkably alert breed who is wary of strangers and makes a very good watchdog. Although known for their bark being worse than their bite, they do have a tendency to nip at the heels of people and should be discouraged at a young age to remove the trait. The Pembroke requires companionship and without this may develop undesirable methods of seeking attention. Differences between the Pembroke and the Cardigan: The Pembroke has straighter legs; is not quite as long bodied; the head is generally more wedged-shaped; the ears are smaller and closer together; it is usually lighter; and it does not have a tail or as bushy a tail as the Cardigan does.

Size of Male: Height: 10-12 inches Weight: 25-28 pounds

Size of Female: Height: 10-12 inches Weight: 23-25 pounds

Temperament

The Pembroke Welsh Corgi is a hardy, highly intelligent, obedient, protective and devoted dog. Pembroke Welsh Corgis are extremely active and devoted little dogs, and are usually good with considerate children. Pembroke Welsh Corgis make fine guards, and excellent show and obedience dogs. Wary of strangers, it should be properly socialized and trained when it is still young – to avoid over-protective behavior as an adult. Some Pembroke Welsh Corgi are more outgoing, restless and excitable than the Cardigan Welsh Corgi. Several of these brave dogs have lost their lives defending their homes, as they were too small for the situation. They sometimes try to herd people by nipping at their heels, although they can be trained not to do this. The Pembroke tends to bark a lot and makes a good alarm dog. Males can be aggressive with other males, particularly if a bitch in heat is in the vicinity.

Living Conditions

The Pembroke Welsh Corgi will do fine in an apartment if he is sufficiently exercised. Pembroke Welsh Corgi is very active indoors and will do okay without a yard. Pembroke Welsh Corgi will do okay in most climates. However, do ensure they are socialized and properly trained when young to remove undesirable traits.

Upkeep

The Pembroke Welsh Corgi loves to herd, and a daily herding session would be ideal to meet its exercise requirements. Pembroke Welsh Corgi can do fine without herding, however, as long as it gets a moderate walk on leash or a good play and training session off leash. Pembroke Welsh Corgi is physically able to live outdoors in temperate climates, but it is mentally far better suited to share its family’s home and have access to a yard. Coat care consists only of brushing once a week to remove dead hairs.

Health

Major concerns: intervertebral disc disease, hip dysplasia

Minor concerns: epilepsy

Life expectancy: 11 – 13 years

Pekingese

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Description

The Pekingese, the ultimate lap dog and devoted companion, will adapt to its environment and surroundings. Even though Pekingese has a mind of their own and likes to get his own way, they have an independence spirit which is its most endearing characteristics. A firm hand will let Pekingese know who is the master. The Pekingese is very suspicious of strangers even though they are an affectionate, noble dog that are both self-centered and stubborn.

Size of Male: Height: 6-9 inches Weight: 9-14 pounds

Size of Female: Height: 6-9 inches Weight: 7-14 pounds

Temperament

Pekingese are very brave little dogs, courageous to the point of foolhardiness! Pekingese are sensitive, independent and extremely affectionate with their master, but are wary of strangers. Pekingese are obstinate, self-willed and may be difficult to feed and are sometimes known to refuse to eat as much to show dominance over its owner as to its lack of appetite. If overfed, Pekingese will quickly become overweight. They are loving to the point of jealousy. They tend to bark a lot and make good watchdogs. They are however, not recommended for young children who are too rough. This breed also tend to be quite difficult to housebreak.

Living Conditions

The Pekingese are good for apartment life. Pekingese are relatively inactive indoors and will do okay without a yard. However, that being said, they should get regular exercise and walks. This can help the Pekingese stay healthy.

Upkeep

The Pekingese enjoys a leisurely walk outdoors, but it is equally happy to romp inside. Pekingese can easily die of heat prostration. Pekingese must be kept in air conditioning in warm weather. It can spend time outside in cool weather, but it should sleep inside. It is an ideal apartment dog. The coat will mat unless combed at the very least weekly, preferably more often. The over-nose wrinkle should be cleaned daily to avoid infection. The coat around the anus must be inspected daily for soiling. Pekingese also tend to snore!

Health

Major concerns: none

Minor concerns: elongated soft palate, stenotic nares, keratoconjunctivitis sicca, patellar luxation, disticiasis, trichiasis, skin fold dermatitis

Life expectancy: 13 – 15 years

Papillon

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Description

The Papillon is a small, friendly, elegant Toy dog of fine-boned structure, light, dainty and of lively action. Papillon is distinguished from other breeds by his beautiful butterfly-like ears. Papillon are very devoted to their masters, with a hearty spirit making them desirable for show or companionship. Papillons are hardy and usually long lived. They adapt to almost any climate and are comfortable in an apartment as well as the country. They are good travelers. They love to be with their family. They are friendly, happy and eager to please. They rank the number one Toy Dog in obedience.

Size of Male: Height: 8-11 inches Weight: 7-10 pounds

Size of Female: Height: 8-11 inches Weight: 5-10 pounds

Temperament

The Papillon is sometimes called the butterfly dog – because the ears look like butterfly wings. Papillon is a friendly, intelligent dog that is tougher than it looks, and loves outdoor exercise. A gentle and affectionate dog, the Papillon is lively, vivacious and charming. Playful and amusing, the Papillon can also be calm, patient, gentle and dignified. Steady and silent. Loves to be cuddled but also likes to romp outdoors. The Papillon may be very possessive of its owner and resent outsiders. They are steady, obedient and are not yappers. Papillon can be trained to perform small tricks. Some blood lines can be nervous, high-strung and timid. They can also be difficult to housebreak, but are in general easy to train otherwise. Papillons do best with older, considerate children. They can be a bit dog-aggressive. Good with cats when they are raised with them from puppyhood.

Living Conditions

Although Papillon can be good city dogs, they are sometimes not good apartment dogs, because the dog has a strong instinct to protect their property, and many will bark excessively at nearby noises, not making the distinction between casual noises and those worthy of a real alarm. However, training and socialization with regular exercise can also render a Papillon capable of living indoors.

Upkeep

The lively Papillon thrives on mental stimulation, and it enjoys a daily walk on leash as well as challenging games indoors or out. Papillon is not a breed that can live outdoors. The coat of Papillon needs brushing twice weekly.

Health

Major concerns: none

Minor concerns: Progressive retinal atrophy, patellar luxation

Life expectancy: 12 – 15 years

Otterhound

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Description

The Otterhound is a large, rough-coated hound with an imposing head showing great strength and dignity. Otterhounds have strong bodies and long striding action fit for a long day’s work. Otterhound has an extremely sensitive nose, and is inquisitive and perseverant in investigating scents. Known for their big sloppy kisses and soft-heart they make an excellent family companion though sometimes they may think they are lap-dogs.

Size of Male: Height: 25-27 inches Weight: 80-115 pounds

Size of Female: Height: 23.5-25 inches Weight: 80-115 pounds

Temperament

The Otterhound is a bold and exuberant dog. Friendly, cheerful, loving and devoted, Otterhound makes a good companion. Otterhound is quite good with children, but may be clumsy with small children and therefore is not recommended for infants. They are a friend to all other dogs, family pets, children and people in general, however they will chase non-canine animals (it can get along with cats in the family). They are affectionate, intelligent, and independent with a mind of their own. Because the Otterhound was never traditionally kept as a pet, it is not among the most responsive of breeds. Training the Otterhound takes patience, because it tends to be quite willful. The best results are achieved with a soft but consistent hand. Use the classic “Iron fist in a velvet glove” approach when training this dog. The Otterhound is a low-key dog that can function as a quiet companion. They like to roam and sniff and have a tendency to snore. Otterhound have a harmonious, boisterous and powerful voice that carries for long distances. They like to bay, however, they don’t bark excessively.

Living Conditions

The Otterhound is not recommended for apartment life. Otterhounds are relatively inactive indoors if they have sufficient exercise. Otterhounds do best with at least a large, well fenced yard. It can sleep outdoors in temperate or cool climates if given a good shelter. It is important for the otterhound to get daily exercise and chance to exert physically for them to stay healthy.

Upkeep

The Otterhound needs daily exercise in a safe area or on a leash. Otterhound have loud, melodious voice that carries for long distances. The coat of Otterhound requires only weekly rushing or combing. It may need its beard washed more frequently. Tidiness is not one of its virtues. Their large, hairy feet tend to hold debris and mud, and the long hair around the mouth can hold water and food. They can sleep outdoors in temperate or cool climates, given good shelter.

Health

Major concerns: Hip dysplasia, thrombopathia, gastric torsion

Minor concerns: elbow dysplasia

Life expectancy: 10 – 13 years

Old English Sheepdog

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Description

Old English Sheepdog is affectionately called the “Bobtail”, so named because of his lack of a tail. Old English Sheepdog is an affectionately loyal dog, protective of those his loves. A natural protector Old English Sheepdog was originally the guardian of a flock and this instinct is displayed in his tendency to adopt young animals and children.

Size of Male: Height: 22-23 inches Weight: 82-102 pounds

Size of Female: Height: 19-21 inches Weight: 60-87 pounds

Temperament

Several generations ago, Old English Sheepdog was described as fierce and untrustworthy, but their characteristics have long since disappeared. The Old English Sheepdog is a gentle, loving and lovable teddy bear. Old English Sheepdog is even-tempered, adaptable, friendly, intelligent, faithful and protective. It has a strong herding instinct and may try to herd the family, especially the small children, by bumping, not nipping, but is otherwise excellent with them. Wanting to play more than anything else. The Old English Sheepdog likes to stick close to home and they make good couch potatoes! It is very much part of the family but also wants some time alone. They can be strong-willed, so this breed needs firm training. The Old English Sheepdog is very good at herding and taking instructions, but tend to anticipate commands or do it their own way if they think their way is better. Motivational methods work best. The bark of the Old English Sheepdog sounds like a cracked bell. This breed remains “young” and active for many years, then suddenly becomes old. The Old English Sheepdog makes a fine family companion, because he loves children.

Living Conditions

The Old English Sheepdog will do okay in an apartment if it is sufficiently exercised. Old English Sheepdogs are fairly active indoors and will do best with at least an average-sized yard. However, as they are somewhat couch potatoes, it is important to bring them out regularly so that they get enough exercise for them to remain healthy physically and mentally

Upkeep

The Old English Sheepdog needs daily exercise, either a moderate to long walk or a vigorous romp. Old English Sheepdog particularly enjoys herding. Old English Sheepdog can live outside only in temperate to cool climates, but it is strongly advised that this breed have access to the house or indoor quarters because it thrives on togetherness. Its coat needs brushing or combing every other day, or it may form mats. It may tend to track in debris.

Health

Major concerns: Hip dysplasia

Minor concerns: gastric torsion, otitis externa, retinal detachment, cataract, deafness

Life expectancy: 10 – 12 years

Norwich Terrier

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Description

The Norwich Terrier is a native breed of Norfolk, England. Norwich Terrier is distinguished from the Norfolk Terrier by his alert, pricked ears. The coat of Norwich Terrier is generally short and smooth on the head and ears. He is a powerful dog for his size with a tight-lipped mouth and a scissors bite. A small, portable an adaptable breed he makes a delightful companion who loves to hunt, dig and investigate.

Size of Male: Height: 9-10 inches Weight: 11-12 pounds

Size of Female: Height: 9-10 inches Weight: 11-12 pounds

Temperament

The Norwich Terriers are active, courageous, affectionate, balanced, without any nervousness or quarrelsomeness. Norwich Terriers are easy to train, but need consistent rules to follow. Norwich Terriers love everyone and are good with children. They will dig and bark if left outside for long periods of time with nothing to occupy their quick minds. They love toys and balls and are generally good with other pets, but can be difficult to housebreak. Norwich Terriers should not be let off of their lead unless secure. They are okay joggers for short distances.

Living Conditions

The Norwich Terrier will do okay in an apartment if it is sufficiently exercised. Norwich Terriers are fairly active indoors and will do okay without a yard. However, it is important that they are regularly exercised to keep them healthy physically and mentally.

Upkeep

The Norwich Terrier needs to stretch its legs with a good walk or short run every day. Norwich Terrier especially likes combining a run with a chance to explore, but any such off-leash expeditions must be done only in a safe area. Norwich Terrier is better suited as a house dog with yard access, but it can stay outdoors during the day if need be in temperate to warm climates. Its wiry coat needs combing one to two times weekly, plus stripping of dead hairs three to four times a year.

Health

Major concerns: none

Minor concerns: none

Life expectancy: 13 – 15 years

Norwegian Elkhound

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Description

The Norwegian Elkhound has the courage, agility and stamina to hold big game at a distance and the endurance to track for hours in all types of weather and terrain. Norwegian Elkhound is extremely versatile. Norwegian Elkhound is a straightforward, equable, friendly and gentle character. Makes a great family pet and home guardian as he is very loyal and protective. Puppies are born black but turn gray in about a week as their fur develops.

Size of Male: Height: 19.5-21.5 inches Weight: 45-65 pounds

Size of Female: Height: 18.5-20.5 inches Weight: 38-58 pounds

Temperament

The Norwegian Elkhound is fearless and friendly. Although some may be somewhat reserved with strangers, Norwegian Elkhound will greet family and friends it knows with enthusiasm. Norwegian Elkhounds are reliable, energetic and alert companions for children and make sensible guard dogs. It is clean and docile with an outstanding character. They are affectionate and loyal, engaging and sensitive. Like other Arctic dogs, the Norwegian Elkhound has a mind of its own and is fairly independent. It may be somewhat resistant to obedience training. It is important to be firm with this dog but show affection as well. Puppies need firm but gentle discipline. Be fair when training this breed. You can upset the dog for a long time by punishing it unfairly, and it will let you know how it feels. They have been bred to hold prey at bay, barking constantly until the hunter arrives. Some Norwegian Elkhounds bark a great deal. They also have a tendency to roam. It is best to pair sled dogs in teams of one male and one female, as males have a tendency to fight if harnessed together. They may also be aggressive with same sex dogs in the household, but this tends to be the exception rather than the rule. Some sources say Elkhounds are usually good with non-canine pets, others say they shouldn’t be trusted so use caution.

Living Conditions

The Norwegian Elkhound will be okay in an apartment if it is sufficiently exercised. Norwegian Elkhound is fairly active indoors and does best with at least a large yard. Norwegian Elkhounds prefer cool climates. However, do ensure they get enough exercise to keep them physically and mentally healthy.

Upkeep

The Norwegian Elkhound was developed to hunt all day under grueling conditions. Norwegian Elkhound needs daily exertion in order to feel satisfied. This can be in the form of a good jog, very long walk or invigorating play session with the Norwegian Elkhound. It can live outdoors in temperate or cool climates, but it is happiest living with its family. Its double coat needs brushing twice a week and daily during main shedding season when it sheds a lot.

Health

Major concerns: Hip dysplasia

Minor concerns: pyotraumatic dermatitis, Progressive retinal atrophy

Life expectancy: 10 – 12 years

Norfolk Terrier

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Description

Expressively dropped ears, game and hardy, Norfolk Terrier is active and compact, free-moving with good substance and bone. A natural, weather-resistant coat and short legs, Norfolk Terrier is perfect in the field. Norfolk Terrier has an affectionate personality with a passion for digging. Playful, he enjoys playing catch, hiking in the woods or burrowing after little critters. The Norfolk Terrier is a cousin to the Norwich Terrier and is similar except his ears are rounded instead of pricked.

Size of Male: Height: 9-10 inches Weight: 11-12 pounds

Size of Female: Height: 9-10 inches Weight: 11-12 pounds

Temperament

The Norfolk Terriers are active, courageous, affectionate, balanced, and without any nervousness or quarrelsomeness. Norfolk Terriers are easy to train but need consistent rules to follow. Norfolk Terriers love everyone and are good with children. He will dig and bark if left outside for long periods of time with nothing to occupy his quick mind. They love toys and balls and are generally good with other pets, but can be difficult to housebreak. Norfolk Terriers should not be let off of their lead unless secure. They are okay joggers for short distances. Norfolk Terriers sometimes suffer from jealousy.

Living Conditions

The Norfolk Terrier will do okay in an apartment if it is sufficiently exercised. Norfolk Terriers are fairly active indoors and will do okay without a yard. However it is good to still bring them out for walks and socialization.

Upkeep

The Norfolk Terrier needs an exercise outing every day, either a short to moderate walk or a lively and boisterous play session. Norfolk Terrier especially likes to hunt and investigate, but it must do so in a safe area. Even though Norfolk Terrier could live outside in temperate to warm climates, it is such a family-oriented dog that it is emotionally unsuited for outdoor living. It does best as a house dog with access to a yard. Its wire coat needs combing once or twice weekly, plus stripping of dead hairs three to four times yearly.

Health

Major concerns: none

Minor concerns: none

Life expectancy: 13 – 15 years

Newfoundland

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Description

The Newfoundland is an exceptionally patient dog who is fits into any type of household. Newfoundland is a large and beautiful breed who rarely has a bad tempered unless provoked. Known for his love and ability to swim Newfoundland has been known to rescue drowning victims. As with any giant breed his owner will require vigilance in his raising and caring for the Newfoundland, in return he will gives his complete devotion and constant protection.

Size of Male: Height: 26-28 inches Weight: 130-150 pounds

Size of Female: Height: 24-26 inches Weight: 100-120 pounds

Temperament

The Newfoundland is a dog with an outstanding temperament, courageous, generous and intelligent. Newfoundland is also a patient dog, mild with guests, and obsequious with its master. Newfoundland is noble, calm, gentle, loyal and trustworthy with a sweet temperament. Dignified and peaceable. Very devoted. They can become so attached to their owners that they cannot adapt to a new home. Good and brave. Intelligent enough to act on his own when needed. Protective, but tends to place himself between the intruder and his family rather than bark or growl. Newfoundland’s can recognize a dangerous situation and will generally act if the family is threatened. Any dog, other animal, child, or visitor who has no evil intention will receive a friendly welcome, however some males may be aggressive with other males. But the breed is generally good with other animals. Patient, playful, and loving with children; he is a born babysitter. Very sociable. Enjoys the outdoors, but also requires companionship. The Newfoundland drinks a lot of water and may be messy about it, as they love to get wet. They tend to drool, though not as much as some other giant breeds. Although puppies require a lot of food, an adult Newfoundland eats only about as much as a retriever. They love to swim and if backpacking near water, don’t let the Newfoundland carry your sleeping bag – or you may spend a very damp night! This breed may be slightly difficult to train. Training must be conducted in a calm and balanced manner. These dogs are very sensitive to the tone of your voice. This dog’s huge body tends to move rather slowly. Take this into account during training.

Living Conditions

Newfoundland will do okay in an apartment if sufficiently exercised. Newfoundland is relatively inactive indoors and a small yard is sufficient. Newfoundland are sensitive to heat, so provide them plenty of shade and cool water in warmer weather. However, these dogs prefer cool climates.

Upkeep

Newfoundland needs daily exercise to stay fit, either in the form of a moderate walk or short romp. Newfoundland loves to swim and pull, especially in cold weather. Newfoundland does not do well in hot weather and should be kept outside only in temperate to cold weather. It is best when allowed access to both house and yard, but it needs lots of room inside to stretch out. Its coat needs combing twice weekly – more frequently when shedding. They do drool and also tend to be messy drinkers.

Health

Major concerns: subaortic stenosis, pulmonic stenosis, elbow dysplasia, hip dysplasia, gastric torsion

Minor concerns: Osteochondritis dissecans, entropion, ectropion, von willebrand’s disease, cataract

Life expectancy: 8 – 10 years

Miniature Schnauzer

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Description

The Miniature Schnauzer is an energetic, active dog who has clean habits, is neat in size and makes a delightful companion for apartment dweller or someone with a small house and yard. Charming and attractive, the perky Miniature Schnauzer is seldom addicted to wandering, being devoted to his home and family. Miniature Schnauzer is an excellent family pet and children’s companion. Known in his native Germany as the Zwergschnauzer he was derived from crossing the Standard Schnauzer with smaller dogs.

Size of Male: Height: 12-14 inches Weight: 13-20 pounds

Size of Female: Height: 12-14 inches Weight: 13-20 pounds

Temperament

Miniature Schnauzer is very perky and bright-eyed. Miniature Schnauzer is loving, intelligent, energetic, affectionate, and obedient. Playful, happy and alert, Miniature Schnauzer likes children. The Miniature Schnauzer demands time and companionship from its owner. It can be feisty and fairly dog-aggressive – putting on a show of superiority without necessarily intending to fight. This can be fairly dangerous for the Miniature Schnauzer, who will challenge even large dogs, sometimes bringing more trouble on himself than he really wanted. Socialize this breed well with other dogs when it is still a puppy. If properly introduced, the Miniature Schnauzer will get along with another dog, but will not accept every dog that comes its way. Since the temperament of this breed can be quite variable, select a puppy from parents whose temperament you enjoy. They make good companions and family pets. Schnauzers tend to bark a lot, but it does not have a yappy bark and is not as annoying as one may think. Most of the time the dog’s bark sounds like it is talking to you in a low carried-out voice. They make good guard dogs and mouse catchers. They are excellent watchdogs and are great to travel with. Some can be reserved with strangers, but most love everyone.

Living Conditions

The Miniature Schnauzer is a good dog for apartment life. Miniature Schnauzer is fairly active indoors and will do okay without a yard. However, ensure that they are exerted physically and mentally since young with lots of exercise, training and socialization to ensure that they are healthy physically and mentally.

Upkeep

Miniature Schnauzer can have their exercise requirements met with a moderate walk on leash or a good game in the yard. Even though Miniature Schnauzer can physically survive living outdoors in warm to temperate climates, they emotionally need to share their life with its family inside the home. The Miniature Schnauzer’s wired coat needs combing once or twice weekly, plus scissoring and shaping (clipping for pets and stripping for show dogs) every couple of months.

Health

Major concerns: urolithiasis, Progressive retinal atrophy

Minor concerns: follicular dermatitis, esophageal achalasia, von willebrand’s disease

Life expectancy: 12 – 14 years