Friday, January 23, 2009

Borzoi


General Appearance
Mature males should be at least 28 inches at the withers and mature bitches at least 26 inches at the withers. Dogs and bitches below these respective limits should be severely penalized; dogs and bitches above the respective limits should not be penalized as long as extra size is not acquired at the expense of symmetry, speed and staying quality. Range in weight for males from 75 to 105 pounds and for bitches from 15 to 20 pounds less.


Owning
The Borzoi's coat is known to shed. Borzois require vigorous exercise to keep them in fit condition. Due to their sight hound heritage, Borzois should never be left off a leash or let to roam outside of a fenced yard. Borzois are very quiet dogs who seldom bark. Although the Borzoi is a large dog, it will happily curl up in a corner very comfortably.


Did You Know
The Borzoi originated in 17th-century Russia, when Arabian greyhounds were crossed with a thick-coated, Russian breed. The Borzoi was once known as the Russian Wolfhound. In 1650, the first Borzoi standard was written. As far as is known, the first Borzoi that came to America was brought over from England in 1889 by William Wade of Hulton, Pennsylvania, this hound being purchased from Freeman Lloyd.

Belgian Tervuren



General Appearance
The first impression of the Belgian Tervuren is that of a well balanced medium size dog, elegant in appearance, standing squarely on all fours, with proud carriage of head and neck. He is strong, agile, well muscled, alert and full of life. He gives the impression of depth and solidity without bulkiness. The male should appear unquestionably masculine; the female should have a distinctly feminine look. The Belgian Tervuren reflects the qualities of intelligence, courage, alertness and devotion to master. In addition to his inherent ability as a herding dog, he protects his master's person and property without being overtly aggressive. He is watchful, attentive, and usually in motion when not under command.


Owning
The Belgian Tervuren's most identifiable feature is his long coat. The coat requires weekly brushing to remove excess hair. He is an active dog who needs daily exercise. The Belgian Tervuren needs to be a close companion. He usually chooses one person to whom he will become attached.


Temperament
In his relationship with humans he is observant and vigilant with strangers, but not apprehensive. He does not show fear or shyness. He does not show viciousness by unwarranted or unprovoked attack. He must be approachable, standing his ground and showing confidence to meet overtures without himself making them. With those he knows well, he is most affectionate and friendly, zealous for their attention and very possessive.


Did You Know
The variety designation, Tervuren, owes its name to the Belgian village of Tervuren. The Tervuren was literally created after World War II, from the longhaired puppies in Malinois litters and the fawn-grey puppies in the Groenendael litters. The first Tervuren was registered with the AKC in 1918. Prior to 1959, the Belgian Tervurens were registered and shown as Belgian Sheepdogs. In that year the AKC granted the separate breed classification designating the Belgian Tervuren as a distinct breed. The honor of first herding champion was earned by Ch. Theriot's Red Baron, UD, a Belgian Tervurenbred and owned by Mary Alice Theriot of Covington, Louisiana.

Australian Cattle Dog



General Appearance
The general appearance is that of a strong compact, symmetrically built working dog, with the ability and willingness to carry out his allotted task however arduous. Its combination of substance, power, balance and hard muscular condition must convey the impression of great agility, strength and endurance.


Characteristics
As the name implies the dog's prime function, and one in which he has no peer, is the control and movement of cattle in both wide open and confined areas. Always alert, extremely intelligent, watchful, courageous and trustworthy, with an implicit devotion to duty making it an ideal dog.


Owning
Australian Cattle Dogs are sturdy, alert, and watchful. The Australian Cattle Dog was originally bred to work cattle in the rough inland terrain of Australia. The coat is easy to care for, a good bathing and brushing will keep the coat clean and healthy. Bred to herd all day, Australian Cattle Dogs have a lot of energy. Australian Cattle Dog's love their owners and especially love to play with children.

Temperament
The Cattle Dog's loyalty and protective instincts make it a self-appointed guardian to the Stockman, his herd and his property. Whilst naturally suspicious of strangers, must be amenable to handling.

Did You Know
Date entered into Regular Classes: September 1, 1980. In the show ring, they are called the "wash and wear" dog as the only grooming required is a bath and a good brushing to keep the coat clean and healthy. The Australian Cattle Dog is sometimes known as the Blue Heeler, Queensland Heeler, Queensland Blue Heeler, and was originally known as the Australian Heeler. The Australian Cattle Dog became eligible to be shown in the Working Group as of September 1, 1980. It was transferred to the Herding Group when that was formed, effective January 1, 1983.

Thursday, January 22, 2009

English Toy Spaniel


Characteristics
The English Toy Spaniel is a compact, cobby and essentially square toy dog possessed of a short-nosed, domed head, a merry and affectionate demeanor and a silky, flowing coat. His compact, sturdy body and charming temperament, together with his rounded head, lustrous dark eye, and well cushioned face, proclaim him a dog of distinction and character. The important characteristics of the breed are exemplified by the head.


Owning
The English Toy Spaniel's coat is not known for excessive shedding, but it should be brushed several times a week to maintain a healthy condition. The English Toy Spaniel is a bright little dog who is affectionate and willing to please. He is a loyal breed and likes to sit in his owner's lap. The English Toy Spaniel's gentle and loving temperament make him an ideal dog for the elderly.


Did You Know
The English Toy Spaniel made its first appearance in England during the reign of King Charles II, in the 17th century. Celebrated professor & physician to Queen Elizabeth refers to them as ''Spaniell Gentle, otherwise called the Comforter.'' In the U.S. the breed has appeared in the AKC's records since the club was founded. Before 1903 all four colors were classified as separate breeds for show purposes, but were permitted to intermix for breeding. But in 1904 the AKC ruled that they should be combined into one breed, the English Toy Spaniel, and shown in two color varieties: King Charles and Ruby; and Prince Charles and Blenheim.

Brussels Griffon


Characteristics
A toy dog, intelligent, alert, sturdy, with a thickset, short body, a smart carriage and set-up, attracting attention by an almost human expression. There are two distinct types of coat: rough or smooth. Except for coat, there is no difference between the two.


Owning
The Brussels Griffon's coat can be either rough or smooth. The rough coat is wirey and dense, the smooth coat is straight, short, and glossy. The Brussels Griffon is alert and full of self-importance.


Did You Know
Personality plus is the first impression you will receive when meeting a Griffon. The Brussels Griffon makes lasting friends with whomever he knows.

Affenpinscher


The Affenpinscher is a balanced, little, wiry-haired terrier-like toy dog whose intelligence and demeanor make it a good house pet. Originating in Germany, where the name Affenpinscher means, ''monkey-like terrier,'' the breed was developed to rid the kitchens, granaries and stables of rodents. In France the breed is described as the diablotin moustachu'' or the moustached little devil. Both these names help to describe the appearance and attitude of this delightful breed.


Owning
The Affenpinscher requires firm but loving guidance, for it can be obstinate. The Affenpinscher's coat should be brushed several times a week. It is relatively easy to learn how to trim the dog around the feet, ears, and tail with scissors to keep him looking neat. The Affenpinscher is an alert, fearless and inquisitive dog.


Did You Know
The Affenpinscher is one of the most ancient of Toy dogs & originated in Europe. They are characterized by their monkeyish expression. The Affenpinscher shows great loyalty and affection toward its masters and friends. The Affenpinscher was admitted to the American Kennel Club's Stud Book in 1936.

Sunday, January 4, 2009

Fox Terrier


Characteristics
The dog must present a generally gay, lively and active appearance; bone and strength in a small compass are essentials; but this must not be taken to mean that a Fox Terrier should be cloddy, or in any way coarse--speed and endurance must be looked to as well as power, and the symmetry of the Foxhound taken as a model.

Owning
The Smooth Fox Terrier is a lively, active, and sleek dog. The Smooth Fox Terrier is easily housebroken. The breed requires occasional bathing and regular brushing to control the minimal shedding. The Smooth Fox Terrier has a keen nose, remarkable eyesight, and staying powers in accomplishing his work.

Did You Know
The Smooth Fox Terrier was originally bred to go to ground, their innate sense to dig comes out unless taught otherwise. The Smooth Fox Terrier was originally bred in England.