<body>
dogcafe logo
dog breeds
 

Dog Breeds Dog Pictures Dog Training
   

Lurcher, Lurcher Dog, Lurcher Breeders, Lurcher Picture


The Lurcher is not strictly speaking a dog breed, but rather a type of dog. It is a crossbred sighthound that is generally a cross between a sighthound and another sort of dog, usually a pastoral dog or Terrier. Collie crosses have always been very popular. Lurchers can be crossed several times. There is no particular type, so they can be as small as a Whippet or as large as a Deerhound; but most are chosen for a size similar to that of a Greyhound, and a distinct sighthound form is preferred.

Generally, the aim of the cross is to produce a smarter sighthound, a animal suitable for the original purpose of the lurcher, poaching. Developed in the middle ages in Great Britain, the lurcher was created because only nobility were allowed to have purebred sighthounds like Irish Wolfhounds, Scottish Deerhounds, Greyhounds, and Whippets, whereas crosses, or curs, had no such perceived value. Similarly, nobility owned most land and commoners were not allowed to hunt game on crown land or other noble estates. It was important that the lurcher did not resemble too closely a sighthound, as the penalties for owning a sighthound were high, particularly given that if you owned one then by default you were considered a poacher. The original lurchers therefore were generally heavier-coated dogs who could herd sheep as well as bring home a rabbit or hare for the pot.

Roma, more commonly known as Romany Gypsies, were instrumental in developing the lurcher type, and the word 'lurcher' is believed to derive from a Romani word 'lur' meaning thief.

The lurcher has as many uses as types can be crossbred, but often they are used as hunting dogs that can chase and kill their prey. Today most are used for general pest control, typically rabbits, hares, and foxes. They have been successfully used on deer. The only real sporting use of the lurcher is in hare coursing, although most hare coursing dogs are Greyhounds. Lurchers move most effectively over open ground, although different crosses suit different terrains. Lure coursing and dog racing are also popular in areas with little available hunting, or for people who dislike hunting. The modern Lurcher is growing from its old image of disrepute to heights of popularity as an exceptional family dog, and many groups have been founded to rehome lurchers as family pets.

Lurcher, Lurcher Dog, Lurcher Breeders, Lurcher Picture

 

   

Malinois (or Mechelen) Belgian Shepherd, Malinois (or Mechelen) Belgian Shepherd Dog, Malinois (or Mechelen) Belgian Shepherd Breeders, Picture


COUNTRY OF ORIGIN Belgium.
MOST SUITED AS Historically a cattle-driving dog, today a guard-dog, defense dog, and family pet.

SIZE
The shoulder-height is about 62cm (241/tin) for dogs and 58cm (221/tin) for bitches. The breed standard permits both sexes to be 2cm (1/tin) shorter and 4cm (11/tin) taller.

COAT
The coat is short-haired, drab sandy-colored with black tips to the hairs and a black muzzle.

CARE REQUIRED
The Mechelen Belgian Shepherd does not require much in the way of grooming for its coat. The occasional brushing, particularly during moulting, is sufficient. They are quite happy in an outdoor kennel provided they get sufficient Exercise and attention.

CHARACTER
This breed is attentive, brave, tough, a good guard dog, intelligent, eager to work, has con­siderable stamina, bonds with its own people, is dominant, and temperamental.

TRAINING
The dog learns relatively quickly. Its potential­ly dominant character demands a handler who is confident.

SOCIAL BEHAVIOUR
generally this breed gets on with children. Prodded it has been correctly socialized, contact other pets should present no problems. They are rather aggressive to their own kind.

EXERCISE
his breed is ideally suited to defense dog- and curity-training and performs well in such )mpetitions. Even if you have no interests in this direction, you will need to take the dog for mg walks to burn off its energies.
lost Mechelen Belgian Shepherds enjoy laying ball games, swimming, retrieving, running beside a cycle, and playing.

Malinois (or Mechelen) Belgian Shepherd, Malinois (or Mechelen) Belgian Shepherd Dog, Malinois (or Mechelen) Belgian Shepherd Breeders, Picture

 

   

Maltese Terrier, Maltese Terrier Dog, Maltese Terrier Breeders, Maltese Terrier Picture


COUNTRY OF ORIGIN Italy/Malta.

MOST SUITED AS Family pet.

SIZE
The shoulder-height is 21 - 25cm (8 1/2 - 9 1/2in) for dogs and 20 - 23cm (7 1/2 - 9in) for bitches.

COAT
The Maltese has a white coat of long silken hair without an undercoat, which is worn with a parting down the center of the back.

CARE REQUIRED
Grooming requirements for this breed are substantial, including daily brushing and combing and regular washing. There is a special lotion to remove the ugly "tear" stains. Hairs can grow in the corner of the eyes which cause irritation. Prevent this by removing them. These dogs do not shed hair, the dead hairs can be removed from the brush after grooming. The coat is supposed to be long, reaching the ground. The hair in front of the eyes is usually held together with a hair band. Keeping the coat in show condition requires considerable effort. Owners of show dogs oil the hair and wind the hair in curling papers to prevent it from splitting.

CHARACTER
Maltese Terriers are friendly, lovable, and playful dogs, are sociable, eager to learn, yet sensitive. They can get along really well with children and bond very closely with their handler.

TRAINING
Training these dogs is relatively easy because they like to be with their family and will adapt. They are very sensitive for harsh words and should never be trained with a hard approach.

SOCIAL BEHAVIOR
The Maltese likes to avoid causing any prob­lems and therefore usually gets on well with other dogs, household animals, and children. The breed causes no difficulties with visitors.

EXERCISE
It is not necessary to take this dog for lots of long walks but if you like doing so, it will happily accompany you.

Maltese Terrier, Maltese Terrier Dog, Maltese Terrier Breeders, Maltese Terrier Picture

 

   

Manchester Terrier, Manchester Terrier Dog, Manchester Terrier Breeders, Manchester Terrier Picture


COUNTRY OF ORIGIN England.

MOST SUITED AS Rat-catcher and family pet.

SIZE
The ideal height is 40 - 41cm (151/2 - 161/2in) for dogs and 38cm (15in) for bitches.

COAT
The coat is short, sleek, and shiny. The most usual color is black and tan.

CARE REQUIRED
The Manchester Terrier does not require much grooming. During the moulting period the dead and loose hairs can be simply removed with a rubber brush. Afterwards, use a chamois-leather to make the coat shiny. Keep the ear passages clean and the claws short.

CHARACTER
This is a high-spirited, very intelligent and cun­ning dog which is eager to learn, lively and sportive, alert and vigilant, barks normally only when there is danger, and bonds very closely with its handler.

TRAINING
This dog likes to please its handler and learns quite quickly. They can be outstanding in activities like agility skills and fly-ball, but they also do well in obedience trials.

SOCIAL BEHAVIOR
Some of the dogs can be rather dominant towards their own kind but they get on well with children. It is advisable to get them used to cats and other household animals quite early on. Manchester Terriers make exceptional watch­dogs because in spite of their size they do not hesitate to go into action when necessary. They are also first rate rat and mole catchers.

EXERCISE
The Manchester Terrier demands plenty of exer­cise. In addition to the normal daily walks, let it run and play off the lead regularly. They can run very fast and keep the speed up for a long time. It is therefore ideal to exercise alongside a cycle, provided that the exercise is built up gradually.

Manchester Terrier, Manchester Terrier Dog, Manchester Terrier Breeders, Manchester Terrier Picture

 

   

Maremma Sheepdog, Maremma Sheepdog Dog, Maremma Sheepdog Breeders, Maremma Sheepdog Picture


The Maremma Sheepdog is a large, graceful, white breed of dog, of a majestic, rustic appearance.

COUNTRY OF ORIGIN Italy.
MOST SUITED AS Family pet and guard-dog for herds.

SIZE
The shoulder-height is 63 – 73cm (241/2 – 281/in) for dogs and 60 – 68cm (231/t – 261/tin) for bitches.

COAT
The coat is long-haired and wiry with a dense under layer. colors of white with markings of ivory, light yellow, or pale orange are permitted by breed standards.

CARE REQUIRED
This breed requires regular thorough grooming with both brush and comb to remove all the dead and loose hairs. This requires particular attention during the moulting period.

CHARACTER
This dog is friendly and loyal, sober, deter¬mined, brave, intelligent, dignified, well-balan¬ced, and a very good guard-dog without being a constant barker. They are correctly described as affectionate but not dependent.

TRAINING
This breed is not one to follow your every com¬mand slavishly and absolutely never when it cannot see the point in it! Its education and training require mutual respect in handling and voice, and above all consistency.

SOCIAL BEHAVIOR
This breed gets on well with other dogs and pets, and in general is patient and forgiving with children.

EXERCISE
This breed needs space, mentally as well as physically. Do not condemn this dog to a walk-around three times a day. Long and alternating walks are necessary for this breed. It must indulge itself freely from time tot time. When it gets enough freedom and space, it will be quiet in the house.

Maremma Sheepdog, Maremma Sheepdog Dog, Maremma Sheepdog Breeders, Maremma Sheepdog Picture

 

   

Mastiff, Mastiff Dog, Mastiff Breeders, Mastiff Picture


COUNTRY OF ORIGIN Germany

MOST SUITED AS Previously a hunting dog for large game and a watchdog, now a watchdog and family pet.

SIZE
The shoulder height is a minimum of 76cm (30in) for dogs and 70cm (27 1/2in) for bitches.

COAT
The Mastiff's coat is short-haired and can be apricot, silver, yellow, or streaked. With all of them, the face should be black.

CARE REQUIRED
During moulting the loose and dead hairs can best be removed by using a rubber brush. Give the Mastiff a soft place to lie down to avoid ugly pressure marks. Economies must not made with the young and growing dog's diet. Good nutrition is essential to optimum growth. Like other mastiff types, the Mastiff has a high pain threshold and since it is very demanding of itself, injuries and illnesses can be overlooked until they are truly serious.

CHARACTER
The Mastiff is a calm, self-confident, watchful, and patient dog who is soft-natured towards his family, intelligent, and dignified. It rarely barks but it is in its nature to defend its territory and the family who go with it against wrongdoers.

TRAINING
Training a Mastiff must be enjoyable, conduc­ted calmly and in an harmonious manner.Consistency, lots of love, and plenty of under­standing work wonders.

SOCIAL BEHAVIOR
Provided correctly socialized, the Mastiff pre­sents no problems mixing with other dogs, and household pets. Normally its behavior with children is good-tempered and friendly. When strangers visit, it determinedly refuses them access unless they are accepted by its handler.

EXERCISE
Do not let a young Mastiff run about and play to its heart's content. Control exercise during puppyhood and youth, because this rapidly growing animal needs all its energy for development. If the dog is too strongly pressured or becomes over-tired, it can have an adverse effect upon the development of bones, joints, and muscles. An adult Mastiff has an average need for exer­cise. In general they do not really enjoy playing with a ball and similar activities.

Mastiff, Mastiff Dog, Mastiff Breeders, Mastiff Picture

 

   

McNab Collie, McNab Collie Dog, McNab Collie Breeders, McNab Collie Picutre


The McNab (also called a McNab Sheepdog, McNab Border Collie, or McNab Herding Dog) is a developing breed originating from a smooth-coated dog typically reported to be the Scotch Collie or Fox Collie that was also the ancestor of the Border Collie. The breeds focus is on herding.

Appearance
The appearance of dogs called McNabs can vary , though their shared roots with Border Collies means that they are often black with white markings - white muzzle with a white streak running up the head between the eyes, usually a white neck and chest, white tipped tail and one or more white feet. McNabs also have as ancestors breeds such as Australian Cattle Dogs and other herding breeds. Some are large dogs of approximately 70 lb (32 kg), while others are as small as 40 lb (18 kg); some have natural bobtails, others have long, narrow, short-furred tails. Its ears are medium sized and somewhat pointed; usually the upper half of the ear flops over.

Characteristics
The primary quality that these dogs are bred for is their herding ability; they are well known as cattle herders, but can herd other animals, such as horses, sheep, and llamas. McNabs are well-mannered dogs, obedient, hard-working, water-loving with consequent good personal hygiene, and friendly with small domestic animals such as cats and chickens, but they require extensive grounds in which to run and are happiest with a job to do.

History
The breed has its roots in northern California, where they were first bred by a Scotsman named Alexander McNab. In 1885 McNab brought two Border Collies from Grampian Hills of Scotland to the McNab ranch in Mendocino. These two dogs were bred to select shepherd females of Spanish origin which were brought to this country by the Basque sheep herders, and that cross was called McNab shepherds because Mr. McNab perfected this breed of stock dogs which would head or heel.

McNab Collie, McNab Collie Dog, McNab Collie Breeders, McNab Collie Picutre

 

   

Mexican Hairless, Mexican Hairless Dog, Mexican Hairless Breeders, Mexican Hairless Picture


COUNTRY OF ORIGIN Mexico.

MOST SUITED AS Watchdog and family pet.

SIZE
The Mexican Hairless is bred in two sizes: one has a shoulder-height of 25 - 33cm (9 1/2 - 13 in), the other is 33 - 56cm (13 - 22in).

COAT
This breed has no hair except for a tuft of short straight hairs on the forehead and longer hair on the tip of the tail. The skin is a variety of colors including black, elephant grey, dark bronze, and grey-black.

CARE REQUIRED
The fact that this breed has no hair does not mean that its skin requires no care! The skin must be protected as much as possible from the sun to prevent sunburn. People who show these dogs scrub them regu­larly to remove dead skin and to keep the skin soft, with special ex foliating creams intended for use by humans: It is most important to keep the skin supple and smooth and to prevent it becoming dry. This is usually done with a lotion or cream. Sometimes the skin is rubbed with oil.

CHARACTER
They are affectionate towards their own people and get on well with children. These dogs are also intelligent, peaceful, and noble, and are extremely adaptable. They can not bark but let out a howl of sorts.

TRAINING
The Mexican Hairless is not difficult to train. They are clever and eager to please.

SOCIAL BEHAVIOR
These highly noticeable dogs generally get on with other dogs, all household animals, and with children.

EXERCISE
This breed does not require much exercise. If you let them romp and play regularly, they will be quite contented.

Mexican Hairless, Mexican Hairless Dog, Mexican Hairless Breeders, Mexican Hairless Picture

 

   

Mi-Ki (Toy), Mi-Ki (Toy) Dog, Mi-Ki (Toy) Breeders, Mi-Ki (Toy) Picture


The Toy Mi-Ki is a rare breed,developing breed, and there is controversy over what a "real" Toy Mi-Ki is, what it looks like, and so on. As with many controversial breeds, this issue is far from being resolved.

Appearance
The Toy Mi-Ki stands about 10 inches at the withers.Whether the Mi-Ki has one coat type or two varies with the different groups. One states that the Original Mi-Ki standard has only one coat type, long, straight silky hair with little to no shedding.

Another group states that the Mi-Ki comes in two coat varieties. The long-coated variety does not shed. Any hair that comes out of the dog is retained by the long coat. It is suggested that a fine toothed "wire hound comb" be used to remove the dead hair. The short-coated Mi-Ki does shed but moderately. Neither coat type is preferred over the other. Both coat types are shown in the same ring together; they are not separated into varieties. The Mi-Ki comes in all colors.

There are two ear types, the folded ear and the prick ear, which meams that the ear stands straight up. Both types of ears are acceptable in the breed standard. When the Mi-Ki becomes excited, his ears "wing", meaning that the folded ear can becoming erect, "winging" out to the side of the dog's head, giving the appearance that the dog is flying.

The eyes are large, dark, and expressive. Mi-Kis are smaller than the average house cat, and are easily trained to a cat litter box.

Temperament
It is a small, devoted companion, who is outgoing, fun loving, and intelligent.

History
In North America, at least two breeders began working with the Mi-Ki in 1991 and 1992. The Imperial Toy Mi-Ki Club started in Milwaukee, Wisconsin in 1991, and a different breeder, started stud books for the breed from a different line of Mi-Kis in 1992. The Greater American Toy Mi-Ki Club started around this time, and in 1994 was incorporated in the state of Wisconsin. That club is no longer active, but a new club, The Mi-Ki Club of America, was immediately formed. The Mi-Ki Club of America claims to have received recognition for the dogs in their stud books in 17 countries around the world. The first Multi-International Mi-Ki Champion was exported to Germany in 2004 and was the first Mi-Ki to be registered there. The Imperial Toy Mi-Ki Club is also still active.

Various clubs have formed, with different ideas about the breeds status, appearance, and requirements. Some breeders, still viewing the Mi-Ki as a type rather than a breed because there is not sufficient breeding stock to work from and insufficient generations of breeding-true lines, have added additional breeds to the Mi-Ki, including the Yorkshire Terrier and the Shih Tzu, among others. Their dogs have been accepted by the Mi-Ki Club of America as purebred Mi-Kis, which believes that the breed is pure and is working to establish multiple generations of Mi-Ki-only breedings.

The Mi-Ki is not currently recognized by any of the major international kennel clubs.

Mi-Ki (Toy), Mi-Ki (Toy) Dog, Mi-Ki (Toy) Breeders, Mi-Ki (Toy) Picture

 

   

Miniature Pinscher, Miniature Pinscher Dog, Miniature Pinscher Breeders, Miniature Pinscher Picture


COUNTRY OF ORIGIN Germany
MOST SUITED AS Family pet

SIZE
The shoulder height is 25 - 30 cm (91/2 - 111/2in).

COAT
The Miniature Pinscher has a very short-haired coat. The color is basically brown but can vary through various shades of brown, including deer red to black and tan.

CARE REQUIRED
The Miniature Pinscher requires little grooming. During moulting, use a rubber brush to remove dead and loose hairs; follow this by wiping the coat with a damp cloth to encourage the hair to shine.

CHARACTER
This lively, alert and vigilant dog likes to bark, is intelligent, sober, somewhat (over)courageous, dependent, loyal to its handler and learns quickly.

TRAINING
Many people seem to feel that just rudimentary training is sufficient with a small dog. This is a pity because the Miniature Pinscher can learn extremely well and wants very much to do so. It is certainly valuable for its socialization to take the dog to puppy courses where it can meet other people and dogs.

You will be dumbfounded by the speed at which the little Pinscher understands and obeys. Pay particular attention to house training since a puddle from such a small dog can easily be overlooked, so that the Miniature Pinscher gets the idea that you are happy to accept it fulfilling its natural needs indoors.

SOCIAL BEHAVIOR
The Miniature Pinscher can get along well with other household pets and children, provided they do not pester it. They can be rather suspi­cious towards strangers, but their behavior will depend entirely upon how they were brought up as young dogs.

EXERCISE
A Miniature Pinscher is perfectly happy living in a flat provided it gets at least three outings a day when it can run and play. They are not really happy to spend their entire life in a basket or as a lap-dog.

Miniature Pinscher, Miniature Pinscher Dog, Miniature Pinscher Breeders, Miniature Pinscher Picture

 

   

Miniature Schnauzer, Miniature Schnauzer Dog, Miniature Schnauzer Breeders, Miniature Schnauzer Picture


COUNTRY OF ORIGIN Germany
MOST SUITED AS Vermin destroyer, watchdog, and family pet.

SIZE
Height is 12 to 15 inches (30.5 to 38 cm) and they weigh 10 to 15 pounds (4.5 to 7 kg).

COAT
The coat is rough-haired and salt-and-pepper colored (with dark face), or black (with black and silver markings on the head, legs and belly). There are also, more rarely, white examples.

CARE REQUIRED
The rough-haired coat of the Miniature Sch­nauzer needs to be plucked by hand or with a blunt trimmer at least twice a year. They must never, in any circumstances, be clipped because this spoils the coat for many years.
The excessive hair between the pads of the feet should, however, be clipped, and comb the embellishments regularly to prevent tangles. By embellishments is meant the beard, mustache, and long eye-brows. When necessary, remove excessive hair growth within the ears.

CHARACTER
This lively, attentive, intelligent dog can be willful and stubborn, and is vigilant , untiring, loyal to the family, and is not led astray by bribes.

TRAINING
The Miniature Schnauzer needs a confident handler despite its size, and also needs to be handled fairly and with consistency. Schnauzers are quick and bright pupils, although they fre­quently have their own ideas about your commands. Vary the drills with play and do not repeat them too frequently.

SOCIAL BEHAVIOR
In general the Miniature Schnauzer gets on well with other household pets and children. They are very uncertain about strangers and will announce visitors with full throated barking.

EXERCISE
The Miniature Schnauzer has enormous amounts of energy. Country walks and romping in your garden please them. Take them out of doors as much as possible.

Miniature Schnauzer, Miniature Schnauzer Dog, Miniature Schnauzer Breeders, Miniature Schnauzer Picture

 

   

Mudi Dog, Mudi Dog Breeders, Mudi Dog Picture


COUNTRY OF ORIGIN Hungary
MOST SUITED AS Hunting dog (principally for large wild game), herding dog, guard-dog, and family pet.

SIZE
The shoulder height is 35 - 47cm (131/t - 181/2in).

COAT
The hairs of the coat are 3 - 7cm long (11 /2- 21/tin); they are thick and curly or wavy. The length of the hair varies on different parts of the body. Mudis are colored black or white or a combination of the two.

CARE REQUIRED
They are very easy to care for. A regular combing is sufficient to keep the coat in good condition.

CHARACTER
This watchful and animated dog is alert and brave, it barks gladly, learns willingly, is intelligent, slightly independent, and sober. The Mudi has a strong urge to protect the family to which it belongs. Within the family it also has the tendency to bond with one person in particular.

TRAINING
If you take their independent nature into account, Mudis are usually not difficult to educate.

SOCIAL BEHAVIOR
The Mudi usually gets on well with other dogs and animals, and with children. They are excel¬lent guard-dogs which will protect the entire family without being unduly suspicious of strangers. When circumstances demand courage, the Mudi will display it.

EXERCISE
This breed adapts to any form of exercise. They are suitable for various sporting activities such as agility and fly-ball.

Mudi Dog, Mudi Dog Breeders, Mudi Dog Picture

 

   

Munsterlander (large), Munsterlander (large) Dog, Munsterlander (large) Breeders, Munsterlander (large) Picture


COUNTRY OF ORIGIN Germany

MOST SUITED AS Field sports dog and family pet.

SIZE
The shoulder-height is 60 - 65cm (23 1/2 - 23 1/2in) for dogs and 38 - 63cm (22 1/2 - 24 1/2in) for bitches.

COAT
The lank long-haired coat may be white with black patches and spots, but black roan is also permitted.

CARE REQUIRED
The large munsterlander needs little attention to its coat. Groom it regularly with brush and comb and check the ear passages well to ensure they are clean.

CHARACTER
These are intelligent, lovable and affectionate dogs that are vigilant, brave, eager to work, that ;an be somewhat dominant. They have a good scenting nose, and bond with their family.

TRAINING
Because they are so bright and keen, these dogs are easily trained. Munsterlanders are know to be fairly dominant, requiring a handler who will take positive control.

SOCIAL BEHAVIOUR
This breed has no problems whatsoever with other dogs and household animals. The majority of them are delightful and patient with children. They tend to be friendly with everyone although they will act as a watchdog when necessary.

EXERCISE
This dog is primarily a field sports dog but that does not mean that it cannot be a family pet. Provided you give them sufficient opportunity for exercise, this dog will feel very content with you. Most of them are mad keen on water and love to retrieve.

Munsterlander (large), Munsterlander (large) Dog, Munsterlander (large) Breeders, Munsterlander (large) Picture