Country of Origin: The Airedale Terrier (also known as the ‘Waterside Terrier’, ‘Bingley Terrier’, or slightly less modestly the ‘King of Terriers’, for its height) comes from the Airedale valley in West Yorkshire, England. It was bred by crossing the Otterhound with the Black and Tan Terrier for increased ability in Water Rat hunting competitions on the Aire River. The result was a breed with great scenting and Otter hunting skills which could pursue and retrieve game from its den. It was later crossed with the Irish Terrier and Bull Terrier. The Airedale Terrier was first brought to North America in the 1880’s. Champion Master Briar, born in 1897, is considered to be the patriarch of the breed. Airedale Terriers became renowned as messengers and search animals in World War I. President Roosevelt is quoted as saying ‘An Airedale can do anything any other dog can do and then lick the other dog, if he has to.’ John Wayne’s nickname, ‘The Duke’, was the name of his childhood Airedale Terrier, who accompanied him everywhere he went.

Size: The Airedale Terrier has a shoulder height of 56-61 cm (22-24 in) and weighs 20-33 kg (45-70 lbs). There are some lines called ‘Oorang Airedales’ or simply ‘large type’ which weigh 23-45 kg (50 to 100 lbs). The largest of Terriers, the Airedale has a long head, deep chest, flat back, straight legs, and small, round feet. Airedale Terriers have floppy ‘V’-shaped ears, small, dark eyes, a black nose, and a scissors bite. They have a highly set, erect tail. The Airedale Terrier’s teeth are the largest among Terriers and can inflict a strong bite.

Coat: The Airedale Terrier has a smooth, hard, wire-haired outer coat with a short, soft undercoat. The coat is tan with black markings on the back and sides. The black may be mixed with gray and white (called ‘grizzle’). Airedale Terriers do not shed heavily. Their scruffy chin hair has the appearance of a goatee.

Character: The Airedale Terrier is loyal, but can be stubborn. Airedale Terriers are active, intelligent and playful. They bark infrequently. Airedale Terriers are courageous, but can behave mischievously.

Temperament: The Airedale Terrier is patient with children and tolerant of other household animals. It may try to dominate other dogs if not trained properly. Airedale Terriers are fearless and alert at all times, but not aggressive. They are responsive, outgoing, and confident.

Care: Pet Airedale Terriers require little grooming, but show dogs need substantially more attention. Pets should be combed twice a week and plucked twice a year. Show dogs are usually ‘stripped’ by pulling out loose hairs via a serrated knife edge. Airedale Terrier s generally have excellent health, but like many breeds they are susceptible to eye problems and hip dysplasia. The Airedale Terrier has a life span of 10-13 years and litters of 5-12 puppies.

Training: The Airedale Terrier quickly understands what is asked of it. If not given variety in training, Airedale Terriers can become bored and refuse to perform.

Activity: Bred to hunt, the Airedale Terrier requires several walks a day and playtime in the yard. Puppies require even more frequent exercise. Swimming and playing catch are among the Airedale Terrier’s favorite activities, but they are very boisterous indoors as well. Airedale Terriers are not suited to apartment life.

Country of Origin: The Alaskan Malamute hails from the Arctic region, where it depended on its thick coat to survive the extreme cold. It was first recorded living among the Mahlemuts in Alaska (Malamute means “village of the Mahle”). The Alaskan Malamutes were bred for size and power to assist in hauling the bodies of seals and polar bears back to the village. They performed an essential function and became valued workers and companions. The Alaskan Malamute was endangered by interbreeding during the Alaskan gold rush of 1896, but was rescued by a breeder and Alaskan Malamute enthusiast in New England in the 1920’s, and thereafter increased in popularity. Alaskan Malamutes achieved fame by assisting in Admiral Byrd’s trek to the South Pole in 1933 and served as pack dogs and search-and-rescue dogs in World War II. They are the prototypical strong, unrelenting sled dog.

Size: Alaskan Malamutes have a shoulder height of 58-63.5 cm (23-25 in) and weighs 34-38.5 kg (75-85 lbs). With broad heads and heavy bones, they are built for pulling weight. Alaskan Malamutes have large muzzles, brown, almond shaped eyes, and triangular, rounded ears. They have straight backs and large feet, with plumed tails which curl over the back. “Giant” Malamutes which weigh over 140 lbs are sometimes bred, but not as show dogs. Alaskan Malamutes are slightly longer than they are tall.

Coat: The Alaskan Malamute has a dense double coat. The outer coat is thick and coarse and the under coat is greasy and wooly. The coat is either pure white or a mixture of white with grey, sable, black, or red, with white legs and muzzle. Alaskan Malamutes grow their coat in winter and shed in spring.

Character: The Alaskan Malamute is friendly, affectionate, and loyal, but can have a mind of its own. They are energetic like puppies for many years, but mellow out in older age. Alaskan Malamutes bond very closely with their master. They don’t mind living outdoors as long as sufficient human companionship is available. Alaskan Malamutes are generally quiet, but may howl, and are fond of digging.

Temperament: Alaskan Malamutes generally get along well with children, especially older children. Their friendliness makes them somewhat unsuitable as watchdogs. The Alaskan Malamute should be watched around smaller breeds or other pets due to a strong prey instinct. They may be aggressive towards other Alaskan Malamutes of the same gender. Early socialization is important to help the Alaskan Malamute get along with other pets.

Care: The Alaskan Malamute does not require frequent grooming, but a good comb-out with a coarse comb is required when shedding. Alaskan Malamutes have litters of 4-10 and a life span of 10-12 years. They are susceptible to musculoskeletal and dermatological diseases. They are generally unsuited to hot climates, and should be given plenty of shade, water, and cooling when living in warm areas. Alaskan Malamutes will eat whatever they are fed, so avoid overfeeding to prevent obesity.

Training: Although they are friendly and well mannered, Alaskan Malamutes need a firm approach in their training to achieve obedience. Some Alaskan Malamutes may be difficult to housebreak.

Activity: The Alaskan Malamute needs a lot of exercise. At least one hour a day of hard exercise is advisable. Alaskan Malamutes absolutely love to pull a sled or wagon, but also enjoy running and roaming. Alaskan Malamutes can become depressed and aggressive if not allowed to exerci

Country of Origin: The Basset Hound (‘Basset’ derives from ‘dwarf’) was bred at St. Hubert’s Abbey in medieval France to trail game. They were bred for sharp noses and short legs to be able to squeeze in under thick foliage, but were not meant to run at fast speeds, so as to prevent them from scaring game away or outrunning human companions. They were especially suited for rabbit hunting. Basset Hounds grew in popularity when Napoleon III kept a few as pets, and became known internationally during the 1863 Paris dog show. They were subsequently brought to America in the late 1800’s. Today, Basset Hounds are a popular pet and remain admired pack hunters. Some American cities, such as Buffalo and New Orleans, have annual Basset Hound-focused festivals and competitions, even crowning King and Queen Bassets. Famous Basset Hounds include comic strip character Fred Basset and the logo for ‘Hush Puppies’ brand shoes.

Size: Basset Hounds have a shoulder height of 28-38 cm (11-15 in) and weigh 23-27 kg (45-65 lbs). They are famous for their deep, emotional brown eyes. The Basset Hound has loose skin over the eyes, very long, low ears, thick bones, and a large, domed skull. Basset Hounds have a slightly curved tail and very large, round feet under strong, wrinkly legs.

Coat: The Basset Hound has short, dense, smooth, shiny hair. Any hound color is acceptable; white with brown and black markings is common (‘tricolor’). Basset Hounds shed constantly.

Character: The Basset Hound is independent but sociable, calm, patient, and playful. Basset Hounds are extremely kind and easygoing. They are very fond of their master and family. The Basset Hound can be a bit stubborn and food is usually near the top of their agenda. They have a deep bark and become single-minded while in pursuit on the trail. It is hard to look in one’s soft, melancholy face without wanting to give it a hug.

Temperament: Basset Hounds are excellent playmates for children and get along great with dogs and other animals. Children should not be allowed to sit on or stress the dog’s back or pull its ears. The Basset Hound is a very social creature and does not like to be left alone. They may tend to drool.

Care: In addition to removing dead hairs with a firm brush when the Basset Hound is shedding, its great big ears must be kept clean to prevent infection. Its toenails should also be trimmed regularly. Obesity in long, short dogs such as Basset Hounds can lead to back and skeletal problems. Basset Hounds are susceptible to GDV (bloat from excessive gas), which requires immediate attention. To avoid obesity and GDV, spread out meals as much as possible and do not overfeed. Basset Hounds live 10-12 years and have litters of 6-10 puppies; large litters occur frequently.

Training: Basset hounds must be trained with consistency and patience. You should make the process active and engaging to keep them interested. Basset Hounds may forget to obey when a snack reward is not present. The Basset Hound is known for being difficult to house break.

Activity: Basset hounds do not require much exercise, but they tend to get excited and energetic once taken outdoors. They should be taken for short walks or allowed to play in the yard. Basset Hounds can live happily in an apartment.

Country of Origin: The Beagle (also known as an “English Beagle”) has been a popular rabbit-hunting English dog since the 1300’s (similar breeds may have existed as far back as 500 BC!). ‘Beagle’ derives either from the Gaelic ‘beag’, for ‘small’, or the French ‘begueule’, for ‘open throat’ (referring to the breed’s musical bark). Tiny versions of the Beagle, about nine inches tall, were bred to be carried around in the hunters’ pocket, or to be followed about on the hunt by children or the elderly. Beagles have been around in America since early colonization, and have grown to become one of the most popular American pets. Today, they are used for pack hunting a variety of game, such as Wild Boar, Coyote, Red Deer, and foxes. Their strong sense of smell and excellent temper make them popular drug sniffing dogs. Famous Beagles include Snoopy, Disney’s Beagle Boys, and President Lyndon Johnson’s Beagles. A national ruckus occurred when President Johnson picked up one of his Beagles by the ears on the White House lawn. This is a definite no-no!

Size: The Beagle has a shoulder height of 33 - 41 cm (13 - 16.25 inches) and weighs 9-11 kg (20-25 lbs). Beagles have a square muzzle, round ears, slightly curved, cheerful tails, and round feet. They have the appearance of a small Foxhound.

Coat: The Beagle has a short, hard, sleek, weather-proof coat which may be any hound color. Tricolor (white, black and brown) is common, or a combination of white and yellow, orange, or red. Liver-colored Beagles are not acceptable.

Character: The Beagle is sociable, cheerful and independent. Beagles are very active and seem to be always ready for a walk or game. Beagles are attentive but never belligerent. They have a distinct bark when on the trail. Beagles are just plain cute!

Temperament: The Beagle should undergo early socialization with other household pets, especially cats or other small non-canine pets they are intended to live with. Beagles are friendly to dogs and children as well as strangers. Bred as a pack dog, the Beagle thrives on companionship with humans and other pets, especially other Beagles. They have a generally happy, lively demeanor and their tails are usually wagging.

Care: The Beagle should have its coat brushed daily and ears cleaned regularly. It should be bathed with a damp cloth occasionally. Beagles are generally very healthy, but susceptible to vertebral problems and hip dysplasia. Beagles live 12-15 years and have litters of 3-14. They can live outdoors in warm environments, as long as sufficient shelter and companionship is provided.

Training: Though at heart they are independent hunting dogs, Beagles are very suitable pets for the home. They are stubborn by nature and learn best from obedience classes. Beagles are eager to please and behave well once trained, aside from the occasional mischief.

Activity: The Beagle needs lots of exercise and loves to go for a spirited walk. It has a high prey instinct, and should always be kept on a leash or in an enclosed area. The Beagle’s love of the great outdoors makes apartment life difficult, but manageable.

Country of Origin: The Bloodhound (sometimes called a 'St. Hubert Hound' or 'Flemish Hound') is a very old breed which was perfected in Belgium. It was bred specifically to track humans, and is world renowned for its tracking capabilities. One common misperception is that Bloodhounds are so named due to their taste for blood. In fact, Bloodhounds are extremely nonviolent; the name is derived from the very high degree of breeding that went into their creation. Bloodhounds combine an amazing sense of smell with powerful instincts. The Bloodhound’s tracking abilities were famously shown in the film 'Cool Hand Luke'. A famous Bloodhound named Nick Carter tracked down over 650 criminals.

Size: The Bloodhound has a shoulder height of 58-69 cm (22.75-27.25 in) and weighs 36-50 kg (80-110 lbs). It is very large and strong, with a long muzzle, droopy ears, and loose hanging skin. The Bloodhound has a muscular neck and back, giving it strength and endurance. It has a curved tail and deep, lively eyes. The Bloodhound has an ideal physiology for tracking, combining large nasal chambers, long ears that block wind while the Bloodhound is sniffing the ground, and folded flesh (the 'shawl') which catches and holds stray scent particles.

Coat: The Bloodhound has a very short, hard, smooth coat which covers the whole body. It is composed of fur only, with no outstanding hairs. Bloodhounds come in red, black and red, or liver and red. A white Bloodhound called a 'Talbot Hound' existed in the Middle Ages.

Character: The Bloodhound is mellow, independent, gentle, kind, and affectionate. It is mostly silent, but loud when it barks. Bloodhounds make great companions, even when you aren’t hunting down escaped convicts.

Temperament: The Bloodhound loves children as long as they don’t pester the dog unfairly; pulling of the ears should not be allowed. Bloodhounds will greet visitors happily and live in harmony with other dogs and household pets. Bloodhounds are attentive but not aggressive with strangers. They are relaxed and affectionate at home, but become alert and tireless when on the trail.

Care: The Bloodhound requires occasional brushing. Cleaning the Bloodhound's ears periodically to avoid ear infection is recommended. The folded skin should be wiped down regularly as well. Bathe only when necessary. The Bloodhound eats generously, so avoid overfeeding and provide regular exercise to keep it in shape (but do not over exercise a young pup). If possible, spread meals out and avoiding exercise immediately after eating. The Bloodhound lives 10-12 years and has litters of 8-10 pups.

Training: The Bloodhound requires consistent training as it is quite stubborn, though it is eager to please its master. A great deal of patience and tact is required when training Bloodhounds. It is very sensitive to the tone of voice, so a firm but approving tone is best. The Bloodhound may be difficult to housebreak.

Activity: Bloodhounds are often portrayed as lazy, but this isn’t the case. Bloodhounds require regular exercise and can walk for hours on end. Consider taking them hunting and be prepared to do a fair amount of hiking on a regular basis.

Country of Origin: The ‘Border’ in ‘Border Collie’ refers to the breed’s origins on the borders of England and Scotland. In 1873, the first sheepdog trials were held in Britain to test a variety of sheepherding breeds with different behavioral and physical characteristics. One entrant, Hemp, impressed all with his ability to manipulate sheep through his intense glare rather than with constant barking. Hemp went on to sire many pups, becoming the father of the modern Border Collie. By 1906, the first standard for Border Collies was written, which emphasized behavioral abilities over appearance. Border Collies were imported to America in the twentieth century, where they became popular working dogs and pets. Their speed and stamina makes them top competitors in dog sports such as Flyball and Frisbee. Famous Border Collies include the title character from ‘Nop’s Trials’ and Rico, a Border Collie who was trained to identify over 250 objects by name.

Size: The Border Collie has a shoulder height of 46-56 cm (18-22 in) and weighs 12-20 kg (27-45 lbs). It is a fast, powerful, medium sized breed with dark brown or blue eyes (merles only), erect ears, and an arched back. Border Collies have low set tails, oval feet, and a scissors bite. They have a wide skull and visible stop (point at which the forehead and muzzle meet).

Coat: The Border Collie may have any color coat, including solid, bicolor, tricolor, merle (lighter coat with speckled patches), or sable (light undercoat with black-tipped hairs), but white should not be predominant. The most common color combination is black with white markings. The undercoat is thick, medium-length, and shiny. Border Collies are average shedders.

Character: Intelligent, determined and brave, the Border Collie forms a close bond with its family and is also eager to work (or play). Border Collies are exceptionally energetic, loving, and likeable. They may be our favorite breed (shhhhh! – we love all puppies the same).

Temperament: The Border Collie gets along quite well with other pets and children, provided it has plenty of activity to keep it occupied. It may get along more easily with dogs of the opposite sex. Border Collies should be socialized with small, non-canine pets when young to overcome the prey instinct. They may snap, especially as adolescents.

Care: The Border Collie must have its coat brushed and combed weekly, but more often when shedding. Bathe only when necessary. Border Collies can live outside in cool or warm climates, provided sufficient companionship is provided. They will become destructive if ignored or insufficiently exercised, especially if left alone for long periods. They have a life span of 12-15 years and litters of 5-7 pups

Training: The Border Collie's tremendous intelligence and desire to please make training fairly simple. Border Collies are sensitive and live for their master’s praise. They are very obedient and agile, able to be taught a great variety of tricks. They are eager to learn and play sports and games.

Activity: If not given work to do, the Border Collie will become badly behaved. Having originated as a sheepdog and cattle-herder, the Border Collie is highly work-focused and most happy when given specific tasks on a regular basis. Border Collies especially love active sports such as Frisbee. They are not suited to apartment life.

Country of Origin: The Boxer was bred in Germany from the Bulldog and the now extinct Bullenbeisser ('bull-biter'). It was bred to chase, bite, and hold onto large game such as dear and boar. The Boxer's name may be derived from the German 'Boxl' for 'short trousers' or from the dog's tendency to stand on its hind legs and swing its forelegs when fighting or playing. U.S. soldiers brought the Boxer home to America where it became a popular pet (the seventh most popular U.S. breed as of 2006) after World War II. In the last century, Boxers have also been put to work as messenger dogs, guard dogs, cattle herders, and police dogs.

Size: The Boxer has a shoulder height of 53-63 cm (21-25 in) and weighs 24-32 kg (53-70 lbs). Boxers are strong, compact, and agile, with broad powerful jaws and a small nose which enables it to breathe while hanging onto an animal. Boxers have docked tails and may have cropped ears. They have a distinctive head with long lower jaws and broad muzzles. The Boxer’s head should be unwrinkled, with slight wrinkles on the forehead when concentrating. The Boxer has an arched skull, sloping shoulders, and high tail. Boxers carry themselves proudly.

Coat: The Boxer has a short, smooth, shiny coat. It may be fawn (light tan, yellow, or light reddish), brindle (light/dark striped), or red. A black mask around the nose and jaws and white markings (“flashings”) on the belly, chest, and feet are possible, but white should not cover more than a third of the Boxer. The Boxer is an average shedder.

Character: The Boxer is happy, friendly, intelligent, attentive, and loyal. Boxers develop strong, close bonds with family. They have lots of energy and a serious demeanor, though they can be clownish and playful as well. They like to grab and carry around just about anything they can in their mouths. Boxers tend to get rowdy when the food bowl is empty. They make excellent guardians and companions

Temperament: The Boxer gets along especially well with children. They also get along well with other dogs and household pets, but may be aggressive towards unknown dogs. It is best if the Boxer undergoes early socialization due to its strong, boisterous personality. Female Boxers may fight each other on occasion. They are naturally inclined to protect you and your family from strangers.

Care: The Boxer’s coat can be kept in good condition by brushing occasionally to remove dead hair. The Boxer requires frequent human companionship. Boxers do not like excessively hot or cold weather and should not be left to live outdoors. Some Boxers may snore, drool or have flatulence. White Boxers are at higher risk of deafness. Boxers have an average lifespan of 10-12 years and will remain fit and athletic into old age. They have litters of 2-10 puppies.

Training: The Boxer must be trained not to jump up at people as it is naturally fond of jumping. The Boxer is ideal for various sporting activities because it can be highly trained and learns very quickly. Boxers may be stubborn in learning, but they are responsive to commands.

Activity: The Boxer needs plenty of physical and mental exercise on a daily basis. They should be allowed to run or go for long walks regularly. Boxers enjoy playing fetch or other activities. They can tolerate apartment life if exercised sufficiently, but a fair-sized yard is ideal. Lonely, inactive Boxers can become stressed out and destructive.

Country of Origin: The Chihuahua (affectionately called 'Chi') may descend either from tiny, hairless Chinese dogs or the South American 'Techichi', a favored pet which was buried with the deceased in the hope they would lead the way to the afterlife. Modern Chihuahuas hail from Chihuahua, Mexico. They are the smallest dog breed and the oldest North American breed. They rocketed to popularity in the U.S when famous Latin musician Xavier Cugat made a Chihuahua his constant public companion, and remain extremely popular to this day. Famous Chihuahuas include the Taco Bell Chihuahua, Ren from 'Ren and Stimpy', and Ducky, the 2007 ‘Guinness Book of World Records’ winner for ‘World's Smallest Living Dog’.

Size: The Chihuahua has a shoulder height of 15-23 cm (6-9 in) and weighs 1-3 kg (2-5.5 lbs). Chihuahuas have an apple shaped head with a short, pointy muzzle, large erect ears, and tiny feet. The tail may curve over the back or side.

Coat: The Chihuahua can have a long or short coat. A variety of colors are acceptable, including sand, chocolate, silver, chestnut, and blue. A variety of patterns including sable and masks are also possible. The variety of possibilities makes classification difficult

Character: Chihuahuas are intelligent, graceful, and sometimes too brave for their own good. They usually bond with only one person and become highly devoted, frequently kissing the owner's face (with or without approval). The Chihuahua is reserved around strangers, and may attempt to defend their owner, usually with little effect. Chihuahuas are tenacious, proud, and very energetic.

Temperament: Chihuahuas can usually live with other dogs and cats without problem. They get along particularly well with other Chihuahuas. It is important to socialize the Chihuahua as a puppy to prevent overt aggressiveness. Small children may regard the Chihuahua as a toy, and their teasing can cause it to snap or bite. It is preferable not to leave the Chihuahua with children under the age of 12, unless they are well taught or supervised.

Care: Chihuahuas require regular grooming with a brush and comb for their long coat. The Chihuahua’s claws must be kept trimmed, and its teeth must be checked frequently for tartar buildup. Chihuahuas get cold easily and should be kept in a warm environment. The small nose may cause wheezing or snoring. The Chihuahua should not be overfed. There is typically a soft spot on the top of the skull; this is normal and is usually closed by adulthood. The Chihuahua has a long life span at 14-18 years.

Training: Although they are usually not trained because of their small size, Chihuahuas are eager to learn. The Chihuahua may require patience and effort to housebreak; for this reason they are sometimes only paper trained.

Activity: Chihuahuas can usually get all the exercise they need by running around indoors. If the dog becomes overweight it should be allowed to walk rather than carried from room to room. Chihuahuas may be taken for short walks but are not an outdoorsy breed.

Country of Origin: The Cocker Spaniel originates in England and was brought to North America in the 1800's. Since the 1930's, the American Cocker Spaniel and English Cocker Spaniel are recognized as distinct breeds (the American Cocker Spaniel is smaller). The Cocker Spaniel was reared to flush small prey from the brush for hunters. The name 'Cocker' is derived from woodcock, a bird the Cocker Spaniel was particularly adept at finding. Today, the breed is used to hunt game bird and water fowl. Famous Cocker Spaniels include Richard Nixon's dog Checkers and Lady from Disney’s “Lady and the Tramp”.

Size: The Cocker Spaniel is 38-41 cm (15- 16.5 in) in shoulder height and weighs 8-13 kg (18-29 lbs). Cocker Spaniels have long, hanging ears and a round head with a square jaw. Their back is short and the body tightly framed. The Cocker Spaniel has straight front legs and the tail is typically docked.

Coat: The Cocker Spaniel has smooth hair of medium length. The hair should never be curly. The Cocker Spaniel coat may be a variety of colors: black, silver, cream, red, or brown, or a mix of another color with white. Non-black coats are known as ASCOB (Any Solid Color Other than Black). White, black, and cream coats are most common.

Character: Cocker Spaniels are intelligent, cheerful, lively and affectionate. They are very loyal to family, and love to play. The Cocker Spaniel is frequently merry and always ready to please. It makes a terrific pet and/or a fine hunting companion.

Temperament: Cocker Spaniels get along well with children and other dogs or household pets. They should be exposed to pets and children when young for maximum social potential. The Cocker Spaniel is very joyous and energetic, enjoying play. It sometimes likes to bark. The Cocker Spaniel requires plenty of attention, love, and devotion, and if it feels its not getting enough it will come looking.

Care: Cocker Spaniels must be brushed and combed thoroughly on a regular basis, preferably daily. Cocker Spaniels should be taken to a dog grooming professional two to four times a year to have excessive hair plucked by hand. The Cocker Spaniel is susceptible to ear infections, and sometimes eye infections. The ears should be cleaned frequently and regular eye exams are recommended. Cocker Spaniels have a lifespan of 10-12 years.

Training: The Cocker Spaniel is quite willing to learn, so training must be consistent but not overly firm. The Cocker Spaniel may be difficult to housebreak.

Activity: A Cocker Spaniel should be walked three times a day or be given playtime in a yard of sufficient size. When walking, avoid brush that may tangle the coat. This breed also needs to run freely in the countryside on occasion. Most Cocker Spaniels love to swim.

Country of Origin: The origin of the Collie (also known as the ‘Scottish Collie’), the prototypical Sheepdog, is wrapped in mystery. Even the origination of the name ‘Collie’ is unknown, but it may derive from the Gaelic word for ‘useful’. The first recorded evidence of the breed dates to around 1800, when both rough-coated and smooth-coated versions, used for sheepherding and guarding, arrived with Celts on the British Isles. They grew in popularity, and were brought to America in the late 1800’s to serve as sheepherders. The standard created for the Collie in 1886 remains unchanged today. You may have heard of a famous Collie by the name of ‘Lassie’. Lassie brought attention to the rough-coated Collie, helping them to become one of the most popular American breeds and proving that they are a great help when little Timmy falls down the well.

Size: The Collie has a shoulder height of 56-66 cm (22-26 in) and weighs 23-34 kg (50-75 lbs). Collies have a flat, wedged shaped head, long muzzle, almond shaped eyes, and small, tilted ears. They have thin, muscular bodies, low tails, wide chests and small, ovular feet. They are longer than they are tall.

Coat: The Collie can have a rough, straight, and long coat or a smooth, hard, and flat coat. Both coats have a soft undercoat and short, smooth hair on their head and legs. Acceptable colors for both types are tricolor, blue merle, white, or sable and white. If white, markings are preferred. Rough haired Collies have frilly, mane-like necks.

Character: The Collie is mild-mannered, gentle, and eager to work. Collies are noble and intelligent, but occasionally can be a bit stubborn. They are kind, affectionate, and serene. Collies make great companions.

Temperament: The Collie is excellent with children, and if properly socialized can get along well with other household pets. Collies are very well-mannered, obedient, and passive. They may be suspicious of strangers. Some Collies, as puppies, can exhibit herding behaviors that will result in the nipping of people's heals however, this behavior usually is outgrown as they get older. Collies are devoted to their family and protective of those they love.

Care: The coat of the smooth-haired Collie only needs brushing periodically. The rough-haired Collie needs to brushed or combed every other day, more often when shedding. Collies have a life span of 8-12 years. They can live outdoors in cool climates, but they prefer indoor life with the family. Collies should be tested for eye and hip problems.

Training: The Collie has a well-deserved reputation of being easy to train. Collies are eager to learn and obey. They are sensitive to the tone of the trainer's voice, so good results can be achieved through positive reinforcement. If Collies are trained too harshly they may become afraid or refuse to cooperate. Collies are quickly housetrained.

Activity: A Collie needs a good daily walk or jog on the leash, or a chance to run around and indulge in physical play. Collies can tolerate apartment life if sufficiently exercised outdoors. They should be provided plenty of water and shade when exercised in hot weather as they are sensitive to heat

Country of Origin: The Dachshund (pronounced dak-sund; also known as a ‘Teckel’) originated in Germany in the sixteenth century. They were bred and trained to chase down prey, such as a badger (Dachshund means ‘Badger Dog’) or fox, enter its burrow, kill it, and retrieve it. The Dachshund was recognized as a distinct breed in 1910 and has gradually increased in popularity to become a favored pet. Famous Dachshunds include Picasso’s dog Lump, who may have inspired some of his works, and Waldi, the first Olympic Mascot and symbol of the 1972 Summer Olympics in Munich, Germany.

Size: There are three different sizes of Dachshund. The standard Dachshund has a chest girth of at least 35 cm (13.75 in) and can weigh up to 26 lbs. The Miniature Dachshund has a chest girth of 30-35 cm (11.75-13.75 in) and can weigh up to 11 lbs. The Toy Dachshund (not formally recognized) has a chest girth smaller than 30 cm (11.75 in) and weighs 3.5 kg (8 lbs). All Dachshunds have an arched muzzle, almond shaped eyes, round ears, and straight tail. They are recognizable by their long, flat bodies and short legs. Writer H.L Mencken famously referred to them as ‘a half-dog high and a dog-and-a-half long.”

Coat: The Dachshund coat may be smooth, long, or wire-haired. All have distinct appearance. Colors can be reddish-brown, black, tan, chocolate brown, deep chestnut in reddish-brown, and black and tan. The hairs on the wire-haired Dachshund should lie flat and be as hard as possible.

Character: Dachshunds are energetic, brave, intelligent and independent. They are quite happy, even clownish, and can behave mischievously on occasion. The Dachshund greatly enjoys interacting with humans and is quite friendly and outgoing at home. Dachshunds make fine companions and are not typically used as hunters.

Temperament: The Dachshund is somewhat reserved around strangers and may bark at them, but forms a strong bond with family. It can be too courageous around larger dogs. Dachshunds are bold and outgoing, enjoying attention and frequently seeking adventure. They get along well with known children but may behave aggressively towards unknown children. Wired-haired Dachshunds tend to be more lively and outgoing then smooth-hairs; miniature Dachshunds may also be more reserved.

Care: The smooth- and long-haired Dachshund should be brushed occasionally to remove dead hairs. Long-haired Dachshunds are prone to tangles, so they should be groomed more often. The coat of the wire-haired Dachshund should be plucked twice a year. Dachshunds live 12-15 years.

Training: Long-haired Dachshunds are slightly easier to train than smooth- or wire-haired Dachshunds, however all varieties need firm and consistent training because they have minds of their own. The Dachshund is also sensitive and should be corrected gently, lest it become cowed and afraid.

Activity: The Dachshund needs a small amount of exercise; medium length walks or a fair amount of play in the yard should be sufficient. Dachshunds may tire easily so exercise should be spaced out throughout the day. Dachshunds can live comfortably in an apartment, but it is best if they get an occasional view of the wild. Frequent jumping and running should not be allowed as it may cause back problems.

Country of Origin: The Dalmatian originates in Croatia (modern day Yugoslavia). The name Dalmatian derives from 'Dalmatia', the likely region of origination. The Dalmatian is known to have existed as early as the 1500's, possibly earlier, though the name only dates to the 1800's. The Dalmatian was used as a guard dog, then became a popular retriever. Dalmatians are frequently associated with fire houses, where they are often chosen as pets for their loyalty and affection. The breed grew in popularity after the release of Disney's animated 'One Hundred and One Dalmatians.’

Size: The Dalmatian is midsize with a shoulder height of 54-61 cm (21.25-24 in) and weighs 20-32 kg (45-70 lbs). The male Dalmatian is slightly taller than the female. The Dalmatian is muscular and lean. It has round feet, small toes, and black or white toenails. The ears are thin and high

Coat: You probably know that the Dalmatian is white with black (or liver colored) spots, but yellow, orange, or blue spots, while rare, do exist! The spotted coat of the Dalmatian is unique among purebreds. The Dalmatian coat must be short. Ideally, spots must not overlap each other, and should have a diameter of 2-3 cm (.75 - 1.75 in). The Dalmatian puppy is born completely white, and spots become slowly visible over the first few weeks, though new ones will grow throughout the dog's life. Dalmatians shed considerably year round.

Character: The Dalmatian is sociable, full of stamina, friendly, and affectionate. It is strong and hard working with lots of endurance. The Dalmatian is energetic and playful, and a very fast runner.

Temperament: The Dalmatian makes a good playmate for children, although it may be a little too rambunctious for smaller children. Dalmatians get along well with other dogs or household pets, though it is should be socialized as a puppy if possible. The Dalmatian is naturally fond of humans and horses. The Dalmatian can be watchful around strangers.

Care: Loose hairs should be removed daily by grooming with a rubber glove when the Dalmatian is shedding. Like some other breeds, the Dalmatian is predisposed to deafness; it should be tested at five to six weeks. Dalmatians crave companionship and should not be habitually left alone in a basement or backyard. The Dalmatian lives 11-13 years, though life spans of up to 16 years are not uncommon. Dalmatians have large litters of up to 15.

Training: The Dalmatian requires consistent training. Dalmatians respond positively to praise when they have done something well. Dalmatians are very sensitive with long memories—they will remember mistreatment and should not be trained roughly. Harsh methods are unlikely to succeed and consistent, gentle corrections are recommended. The Dalmatian has a strong sense of rank and is highly strong willed, so an experienced trainer is recommended.

Activity: Dalmatians will adapt themselves to the activity level of your family, although they are energetic and happiest when they get a chance to run free in the country.

page created :06-16-2010