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Wire Fox Terrier, Wire Fox Terrier Dog, Wire Fox Terrier Breeders, Wire Fox Terrier Picture


Breed Group: Terrier

Weight: male: 17-19, female: 15-17 lbs

Height: 15.5 inches

Color(s): white should predominate (brindle, red, or liver markings are objectionable)

Coat: The Wire Fox Terrier has a broken coat giving the coat a shaggy type appearance. The hair of this breed should twist, and always have longer hair on the muzzle, giving him a beard. The coat of this breed should never be soft or silky and should always remain harsh and wiry. The beard of this breed is the most noticeable, and most likely requires the most maintenance.

Overview: The Wire Fox Terrier has been used for many hunting activities, the most common being hunting foxes in England. This breed would harass the fox out of his hole by biting and snapping. The Wire Fox Terrier has also been used for ratting on occasion and has done exceptionally well. This breed can also excel in many different activities such as, hunting, watch dogging, as an alarm dog, agility, tracking, and also performing tricks which he is known for.

Character: Being a terrier, this breed is very lively and energetic making him a joy to be around. The Wire Fox Terrier will always liven up the room. A great sense of humor and a very loving companion, this breed can also be wary of strangers so proper socialization is a must. The Wire Fox Terrier has a very fun loving and energetic personality making him very popular among families, but the owner should always do their research to be sure that this lively dog is right for their environment and lifestyle.

Temperament: The Wire Fox Terrier is very friendly and alert. This breed does make a good alert dog, but does not do well as a guard dog. The Wire Fox Terrier can do well around children, but if around smaller children, he should always be supervised as this breed has the tendency to snap when irritated or pestered. The Wire Fox Terrier generally doesn't do well around other pets and should never be trusted around smaller and more passive animals. If socialized and trained properly at an early age, this breed can do well around other dogs and lose the tendency to be combative and aggressive towards them.

Care: The Wire Fox Terrier does require much grooming, however brushing is necessary. Stripping of the coat is required for show dogs, however can be done less frequently if not used for these purposes. Hand plucking of the coat may be necessary to remove dead hairs but should only be performed by an experienced groomer. The Wire Fox Terrier has a much longer beard along his muzzle which should be brushed and cleaned every other day to prevent caking, matting, and dirt. Washing with a mild soap and brushing with a fine-toothed comb will prevent this.

Training: The Wire Fox Terrier is very lively and can be independent making training at an early age very important. This breed loses interest quickly and should have a firm and consistent handler. Making training a game and fun will be sure to keep this dogs interest. The Wire Fox Terrier should have an experienced handler, as they can be very stubborn and willful. If the proper techniques are not performed, this breed will be very difficult to train and become somewhat of a tyrant.

Activity: The Wire Fox Terrier loves exercise and is very active. This breed can do well without a yard, however due to the energy, at least a small yard would be best. This breed does remarkably well running along side a bike, and loves long jogs with his owner. The Wire Fox Terrier does best in a home with a fenced in yard as they love to run and chase, however the fence should always be reinforced in some way and should always be at least 6 feet in height to prevent escape.

Ownership: If you are looking for Wire Fox Terrier puppies for sale from reputable Wire Fox Terrier breeders or to adopt a Wire Fox Terrier from a Wire Fox Terrier rescue then make sure you understand as much about the dog breeds you are interested in as you can. Every puppy breed is different. Begin your research by reading the breed information about the Wire Fox Terrier puppy above. Search our dog breeds section to find Wire Fox Terrier puppies, dogs and puppies that make great pets.

Wire Fox Terrier, Wire Fox Terrier Dog, Wire Fox Terrier Breeders, Wire Fox Terrier Picture

 

   

Tibetan Spaniel, Tibetan Spaniel Dog, Tibetan Spaniel Breeders, Tibetan Spaniel Picture


Breed Group: Non-Sporting

Weight: 9-15 lbs

Height: 10 inches

Color(s): All colors and mixtures, white allowed on feet

Coat: The Tibetan Spaniel is a double coat breed. The outer coat is of medium length and is silky, soft, and flat. The under coat is dense and soft in texture and provides warmth as well as protection from the sun. They have feathering on the tail, ears, and backs of legs. There is a longer mane of hair at the neck. The coat comes in a wide variety of colors such as cream, fawn, white, red, gold, black, and black and tan. This breed is an average shedder that sheds their undercoat twice a year.

Overview: Tibetan Spaniels originated in the Himalayan Mountains of Tibet over 2000 years ago. They were owned and bred by Buddhist monks and were never sold. The Tibetan Spaniels only left the monasteries as treasured gifts to esteemed and honored friends or royal houses. Considered to be one of the oldest breeds, they were used as a watchdog as well as for keeping their owner warm in extreme cold.

Character: Commonly referred to as the "Tibbie", this breed is relatively rare and primitive. The Tibetan Spaniel is active, small, and alert. They are appropriately and affectionately called "little lion" due to being tender and also tough. This Oriental breed exudes an exotic charm and makes a lovely companion.

Temperament: The Tibetan Spaniel is a highly intelligent breed and is deeply devoted to their family and friends. They thrive on human companionship, are extremely sensitive, and will respond to their owner's moods, emotions, and feelings. They do best with older, considerate, well-behaved children. This breed is generally aloof with strangers but is never aggressive. They get along very well with other pets. The Tibetan Spaniel will vigorously alert their family to any unusual event, sound, or to visitors. They are excellent watchdogs that are neither nervous nor hyper. This breed is not only a lap dog but also likes to sleep in bed with their owners. The Tibetan Spaniel likes to be up high so they are able to survey their surroundings.

Care: Tibetan Spaniels require brushing once a week. It is important to pay careful attention to the hair behind the ears as it knots quite easily. When bathing the Tibetan Spaniel a mild shampoo is recommended. They must be rinsed thoroughly of all residues to prevent dry skin that may lead to itching and scratching. They are prone to a myriad of health issues such as PRA, weeping eye, cherry eye, allergies, low tolerance to anesthesia, and hip and elbow dysplasia.

Training: The Tibetan Spaniel is independent and intelligent, but may also be stubborn. They have a tendency to think that they know more than their owner. They typically do not do well in obedience or other organized training activities. They are easily bored with repetition. This breed is very eager to please and will do anything for attention. There may be some difficulty in housebreaking them and the crate method is recommended. Early socialization is a must for the Tibetan Spaniel. Because of their sensitivity training should only be done with love, patience, praise, and consistency.

Activity: Tibetan Spaniels need daily walks and runs. They love to play outdoors and are at their best when properly exercised. It is important that they are always securely leashed and fenced. They will do okay in an apartment provided they are sufficiently exercised. If they are left alone for extended periods of time they will become bored and possibly destructive.

Ownership: If you are looking for Tibetan Spaniel puppies for sale from reputable Tibetan Spaniel breeders or to adopt a Tibetan Spaniel from a Tibetan Spaniel rescue then make sure you understand as much about the dog breeds you are interested in as you can. Every puppy breed is different. Begin your research by reading the breed information about the Tibetan Spaniel puppy above. Search our dog breeds section to find Tibetan Spaniel puppies, dogs and puppies that make great pets.

Tibetan Spaniel, Tibetan Spaniel Dog, Tibetan Spaniel Breeders, Tibetan Spaniel Picture

 

   

Plott Dog, Plott Dog Breeders, Plott Dog Picture


Breed: Plott Hound

Also Called:

Height: The Plott Hound is about 20-25 inches tall.

Weight: The Plott Hound weighs between 40-60 lbs.

Colors: The Plott Hound can be any shade of brindle (a streaked or striped pattern of dark hair imposed on a lighter background). Such as: yellow, buckskin, tan, brown, chocolate, liver, orange, red, light or dark gray, blue or Maltese, dilute black, and black. Other acceptable Plott colors are solid black, any shade of brindle, with black saddle, and black with brindle trim. A rare buckskin, devoid of any brindle, sometimes appears among litters; ranging from red fawn, sandy red, light cream, and yellow ochre, to dark fawn and golden tan. Can have white on chest and feet.
General Appearance: The Plott Hound is a hunting hound of striking color that traditionally brings big game to bay or tree, the Plott is intelligent, alert and confident. Noted for stamina, endurance, agility, determination and aggressiveness when hunting, the powerful, well muscled, yet streamlined Plott combines courage with athletic ability.

Temperment: The Plott Hound is eager to please, loyal, intelligent, alert. Aggressive, bold, and fearless hunter. Disposition generally even, but varies among strains, with a distinction sometimes appearing between those bred for big game and those bred as coonhounds.

Care: The Plott Hound requires minimum grooming because of their short coat. Brush and bathe occasionally. Keep the ears clean and nails trimmed as well.
Health Concerns:

Training: The Plott Hound is a great tracker and can be use to track and bring to bay or tree big game such as bear, boar, and mountain lion.

Activity: The Plott Hound needs plenty of exercise, especially if it is to be used for tracking

Life Span: The Plott Hound lives an average life of 10-14 years.

Litter Size: The Plott Hound has an average litter of 4-10 puppies.
Country of Origin: The Plott Hound originated in Germany.

Brief History: George Plott came from Germany in 1750 with his brother and five Hanoverian Hounds. He bred these dogs in North Carolina. For the next seven generations these dogs were bred by this family and were referred to as the Plott's hounds. When the lines needed an outcross, a tan, black-saddled Blevins was chosen. It is because of this cross, some brindle Plott hounds have a black saddle.

Plott Dog, Plott Dog Breeders, Plott Dog Picture

 

   

Miniature Bull Terrier, Miniature Bull Terrier Dog, Miniature Bull Terrier Breeders, Miniature Bull Terrier Picture


Breed Group: Terrier

Weight: 25-33 lbs

Height: 10-14 inches

Color(s): pure white, or any color to predominate

Coat: The Miniature Bull Terrier has a very short and flat coat. The coat should remain harsh to the touch and should always be glossy. The coat should be close lying and very tight. The skin of this breed should always be tight, never having wrinkles or saggy skin.

Overview: The Bull Terrier is a cross between the Bulldog and the Old English Terrier with a bit of Spanish Pointer in his bloodline. This breed originated in 1830 to attack bull in this sport of combat. They were soon replaced in 1850 with the White Cavalier and have since been used for many different things. The Bull Terrier has been used as a guard dog, a ratter, a herder, and a watchdog and does extremely well in all. The Miniature Variety of the Bull Terrier comes from the same origins as the Standard, but developed to retain a more manageable size.

Character: The Miniature Bull Terrier has a very fiery personality and can be very feisty at times. This breed can be protective of his owner and territory giving off a fearless and brave presence. This breed should always have an experienced handler, as he can be very protective. The Miniature Bull Terrier should always have a dominant owner as this can escalate into aggression later in life if it is not handled at an early stage.

Temperament: Lively, friendly, yet protective, this breed can be quite difficult at times. The Miniature Bull Terrier should not be left unsupervised around small children. This breed does well around other pets given the proper socialization, however should be supervised around smaller animals. The Miniature Bull Terrier can be somewhat combative around other animals, but if raised with them from puppy hood he can do exceptionally well.

Care: Regular grooming is not necessary for this shorthaired breed. Occasionally brushing and combing should be sufficient to remove any loose hair from the Miniature Bull Terrier. A wipe down with a damp washcloth should also keep this breed fairly clean. The ears should be cleaned on a regular basis, and the nails should be clipped at least once every two weeks to keep them at a manageable length. A rub down with a specially made rubber glove should suffice and take care of many, if not all grooming aspects.

Training: The Miniature Bull Terrier can be difficult to train and is not for the inexperienced. They can be willful and dominant making training a task. The handler must be firm, consistent, and always dominant to prevent problems. The Miniature Bull Terrier can be very stubborn so obedience classes are recommended at an early age to make training a little easier in the future.

Activity: The Miniature Bull Terrier is a fairly active breed and does best with at least a small yard. This breed enjoys long daily walks, however they do love a regular romp free, but should always be in a fenced area. This dog loves long walks and jogs with his owner. This breed should always have at least one hour of exercise per day to stay healthy and active and to prevent destruction.

Ownership: If you are looking for Miniature Bull Terrier puppies for sale from reputable Miniature Bull Terrier breeders or to adopt a Miniature Bull Terrier from a Miniature Bull Terrier rescue then make sure you understand as much about the dog breeds you are interested in as you can. Every puppy breed is different. Begin your research by reading the breed information about the Miniature Bull Terrier puppy above. Search our dog breeds section to find Miniature Bull Terrier puppies, dogs and puppies that make great pets.

Miniature Bull Terrier, Miniature Bull Terrier Dog, Miniature Bull Terrier Breeders, Miniature Bull Terrier Picture

 

   

Lowchen, Lowchen Dog, Lowchen Breeders, Lowchen Picture


Breed Group: Non-Sporting

Weight: 8-18 lbs

Height: 12-14 inches

Color(s): any colors or combinations

Coat: The Lowchen has a soft and silky coat texture. It is typically trimmed to resemble a lion. Their back end is sheared to the skin, and a tuft of hair is left on the end of the tail. The ears are left long and fringed. If the coat is not trimmed into the lion cut the fur is long and wavy; never curly. The Lowchen coat color comes in various combinations and changes numerous times over the dog's life span. This breed sheds little to no hair.

Overview: This breed is of European descent and originated in France during the 14th century. Known as the Little Lion, they were particularly favored by aristocracy. During the first half of the 20th century they nearly became extinct. However, Madame Bennert of Belgium is credited for saving this breed. The Lowchen has appeared twice in the Guiness Book of World Records: once as the most expensive dog in the world, and once as the rarest dog in the world.

Character: An active, well-balanced, and strongly built breed, the Lowchen is a mixture of calm soul mate and playful spirit. They are charming, delightful, and make excellent companions. Lowchens possess a positive and outgoing attitude, and is a dog of regal bearing and style.

Temperament: The Lowchen is extremely intelligent, affectionate, and sociable. This breed is loyal, devoted, and eager to please. They are fearless, resourceful, and bold. They possess a gentle and sensitive nature, and firmly attach themselves to their family. This breed is good with children, other dogs, and other household pets. The Lowchen is fragile in appearance but is actually robust and tough. They may display arrogance or a strong-willed attitude. They are extremely protective of their family and will bark to warn of danger or visitors. The Lowchen is cheerful and playful, but is not hyperactive or high-strung.

Care: The classic leonine look of the Lowchen requires a professional grooming every four to six weeks. The unclipped hair must be combed daily to prevent tangles and mats. Bathing should be done on a weekly basis. It is important that sunscreen be applied to the shorn area to prevent sunburn. Lowchens are generally healthy, although they are prone to subluxated patellas, eye irritations caused by hair, and skin irritations on the shaved areas.

Training: The Lowchen's high intelligence and willingness to please make them easily trained. They excel in agility and obedience. Early socialization is important for this breed. They respond best to gentle, fair, fun, and consistent guidance. Proper training will discourage their tendency to bark excessively and curtail their tendency to dig.

Activity: This breed loves long walks, daily jogs, and hiking. They especially enjoy "off leash" time where they have the opportunity to run freely. They are suitable for apartment dwelling provided they are given sufficient exercise and ample play sessions. A securely fenced yard is nice but is not essential to the Lowchen.
Ownership: If you are looking for Lowchen puppies for sale from reputable Lowchen breeders or to adopt a Lowchen from a Lowchen rescue then make sure you understand as much about the dog breeds you are interested in as you can. Every puppy breed is different. Begin your research by reading the breed information about the Lowchen puppy above. Search our dog breeds section to find Lowchen puppies, dogs and puppies that make great pets.

Lowchen, Lowchen Dog, Lowchen Breeders, Lowchen Picture

 

   

English Toy Spaniel, English Toy Spaniel Dog, English Toy Spaniel Breeders, English Toy Spaniel Picture


General Appearance
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.

Size, Proportion, Substance

Size - The most desirable weight of an adult is eight to fourteen pounds. General symmetry and substance are more important than the actual weight; however, all other things being equal, the smaller sized dog is to be preferred. Proportion - Compact and essentially square in shape, built on cobby lines. Substance - Sturdy of frame, solidly constructed.

Head
Head large in comparison to size, with a plush, chubby look, albeit with a degree of refinement which prevents it from being coarse.

Expression
Soft and appealing, indicating an intelligent nature.

Eyes
Large and very dark brown or black, set squarely on line with the nose, with little or no white showing. The eye rims should be black.

Ears
Very long and set low and close to the head, fringed with heavy feathering.

Skull
High and well domed; from the side, curves as far out over the eyes as possible.

Stop
Deep and well-defined.

Muzzle
Very short, with the nose well laid back and with well developed cushioning under the eyes.

Jaw
Square, broad, and deep, and well turned up, with lips properly meeting to give a finished appearance.

Nose
Large and jet black in color, with large, wide open nostrils.

Bite
Slightly undershot; teeth not to show. A wry mouth should be penalized; a hanging tongue is extremely objectionable.

Neck, Topline, Body
Neck-Moderate in length; nicely arched. Topline - Level. Body - Short, compact, square and deep, on cobby lines, with a broad back. Sturdy of frame, with good rib and deep brisket.

Tail
The tail is docked to two to four inches in length and carried at or just slightly above the level of the back. The set of the tail is at the back's level. Many are born with a shorter or screw tail which is acceptable. The feather on the tail should be silky and from three to four inches in length, constituting a marked "flag" of a square shape. The tail and its carriage is an index of the breed's attitude and character.

Forequarters
Shoulders well laid back; legs well boned and strong, dropping straight down from the elbow; strong in pastern. Feet, front and rear, are neat and compact; fused toes are often seen and are acceptable.

Hindquarters
Rear legs are well muscled and nicely angulated to indicate strength, and parallel of hock.

Coat
Profusely coated, heavy fringing on the ears, body, and on the chest, and with flowing feathering on both the front and hind legs, and feathering on the feet. The coat is straight or only slightly wavy, with a silken, glossy texture. Although the Blenheim and the Ruby rarely gain the length of coat and ears of the Prince Charles and King Charles, good coats and long ear fringes are a desired and prized attribute. Over-trimming of the body, feet or tail fringings should be penalized.

Color
The Blenheim (red and white) consists of a pearly white ground with deep red or chestnut markings evenly distributed in large patches. The ears and the cheeks are red, with a blaze of white extending from the nose up the forehead and ending between the ears in a crescentic curve. It is preferable that there be red markings around both eyes. The Blenheim often carries a thumb mark or "Blenheim Spot" placed on the top and the center of the skull.

The Prince Charles (tricolor) consists of a pearly white ground, with evenly distributed black patches, solid black ears and black face markings. It is preferable that there be black markings around both eyes. The tan markings are of a rich color, and on the face, over the eyes, in the lining of the ears, and under the tail.

The King Charles (black and tan) is a rich, glossy black with bright mahogany tan markings appearing on the cheeks, lining of the ears, over the eyes, on the legs and underneath the tail. The presence of a small white chest patch about the size of a quarter, or a few white hairs on the chest of a King Charles Spaniel are not to be penalized; other white markings are an extremely serious fault.

The Ruby is a self-colored, rich mahogany red. The presence of a small white chest patch about the size of a quarter, or a few white hairs on the chest of a Ruby Spaniel are not to be penalized. Other white markings are an extremely serious fault.

Gait
Elegant with good reach in the front, and sound, driving rear action. The gait as a whole is free and lively, evidencing stable character and correct construction. In profile, the movement exhibits a good length of stride, and viewed from front and rear it is straight and true, resulting from straight-boned fronts and properly made and muscled hindquarters.

Temperament
The English Toy Spaniel is a bright and interested little dog, affectionate and willing to please.

English Toy Spaniel, English Toy Spaniel Dog, English Toy Spaniel Breeders, English Toy Spaniel Picture

 

   

Brussels Griffon, Brussels Griffon Dog, Brussels Griffon Breeders, Brussels Griffon Picture


Breed Group: Toy

Weight: 8-10 lbs

Height: 7-8 inches

Color(s): red, belge (mixed reddish brown and black), black and tan, or black

Coat: There are two coat varieties for the Brussels Griffon. The first coat being rough-coated which consists of harsh, dense, and wiry hair. The second variety is the smooth-coated, which is the opposite being glossy, straight and short.

Overview: Sporting a sort of human like expression, this cheerful fellow is a good companion dog. The Brussels Griffon is good with other pets, including cats and smaller animals, but do best with older children. Sensitive and curious, this is a demanding dog but gives great deals of love and affection to his owner.

Character: The Brussels Griffon is a barker and definitely enjoys doing so. They make good alarm dogs. Intelligent and picky, this breed would do best with obedience classes during early stages of life to ensure a well-rounded and polite dog.

Temperament: Cheerful, friendly, and sometimes moody, this breed can be fairly picky. As with many smaller breeds, the Brussels Griffon can be difficult to housebreak but with consistency, will do just fine. Being that this is a willful and high-strung breed, a gentle but firm handler would work best with training.

Care: Shedding very little, this breed does need a lot of maintenance on the coat. Daily brushing should keep the coat shiny, clean, and prevent any matting or tangles. The beard around the mouth area should be cleaned regularly to prevent and caking.

Training: You must be consistent with this breed, as they tend to lose interest fairly quickly. Obedience classes are recommended, but not required. Make the training fun and you will be sure to keep this dog's attention.

Activity: A lively and hyperactive breed, they still do not require much activity. The Brussels Griffon gets most of his exercise in the home. This dog does enjoy short walks and will do just fine without a yard.

Ownership: If you are looking for Brussels Griffon puppies for sale from reputable Brussels Griffon breeders or to adopt a Brussels Griffon from a Brussels Griffon rescue then make sure you understand as much about the dog breeds you are interested in as you can. Every puppy breed is different. Begin your research by reading the breed information about the Brussels Griffon puppy above. Search our dog breeds section to find Brussels Griffon puppies, dogs and puppies that make great pets.

Brussels Griffon, Brussels Griffon Dog, Brussels Griffon Breeders, Brussels Griffon Picture

 

   

Black Russian Terrier, Black Russian Terrier Dog, Black Russian Terrier Breeders, Black Russian Terrier Picture


Breed Group: Working

Weight: Male: 110-160, Female: 80-120 lbs

Height: Male: 26-30, Female: 25.5-28 inches

Color(s): black, black with some gray hair

Coat: The virtually non-shedding hair is rough, hard, ample and extremely dense, between 1.6 and 3.9 inches long and covers the entire body with dense and well-developed undercoat. The coat forms a rough, bushy moustache on the upper lip and a beard on the lower lip. On the neck and the withers, the coat is longer and forms a mane. The forelegs down until the elbows and the hind legs until the thighs are covered by a rough and long coat.

Overview: The Black Russian Terrier is a large size dog with square or slightly stretched frame, efficient, easily adaptable to different climatic conditions and owners life-style, intelligent, well trainable. He is active, but dignified, and will delight in joining you in fishing, swimming, biking or hiking. He's happiest with an owner who can give him plenty of jobs to do (like playing games, obedience, agility training).

Character: Black Russian Terriers are intelligent, loyal, strong, enduring, courageous, self-confident protective and reliable. Balanced temperament and good trainability allow successful use in many working modalities and canine sports. Black Russian Terriers are a wonderful companion and a loyal family member.
Temperament: Active, hardy large breed with stable temperament, but very lively, with strong reactions of defense: unwanted visitors are stopped. This dog is tough, brave, alert, and loyal. This breed gets along fine with children and other animals, provided proper socialization has taken place.

Care: Weekly grooming with a brush and comb is required. The ears, nails and teeth require ample attention. Scissoring or clipping for a Black Russian Terrier is sufficient 3-4 times a year.
Training: Training is a breeze as this breed rates higher than average in learning speed and problem solving skills.
Activity: This breed will do well in urban, suburban or country setting with reasonable amounts of exercise. Black Russian Terriers are happiest when doing some type of work, such as playing games, agility, obedience, or protection. Over-exercising when young can cause damage to growing bones, joints, and muscles.

Ownership: If you are looking for Black Russian Terrier puppies for sale from reputable Black Russian Terrier breeders or to adopt a Black Russian Terrier from a Black Russian Terrier rescue then make sure you understand as much about the dog breeds you are interested in as you can. Every puppy breed is different. Begin your research by reading the breed information about the Black Russian Terrier puppy above. Search our dog breeds section to find Black Russian Terrier puppies, dogs and puppies that make great pets.

Black Russian Terrier, Black Russian Terrier Dog, Black Russian Terrier Breeders, Black Russian Terrier Picture

 

   

American Water Spaniel, American Water Spaniel Dog, American Water Spaniel Breeders, American Water Spaniel Picture


Breed Group: Sporting

Weight: male: 30-45, female: 25-40 lbs

Height: 15-18 inches

Color(s): solid liver, brown, or dark chocolate

Coat: The American Water Spaniel has a double coat, which is distinctive and weather resistant. The outer coat ranges from tightly curled to wavy, while the under coat is dense and protects this breed from weather and water. The coat is neither coarse nor soft, but somewhat oily. The color may be dark chocolate, brown, or solid liver. This breed is a light shedder.

Overview: The American Water Spaniel is most commonly referred to as AWS. Since the 18th century this breed has been used on the farm and for hunting, particularly in Minnesota and Wisconsin. They are one of only a few breeds developed in America, and are considered a rare breed. The American Water Spaniel is virtually unknown outside of the United States. They were designated as Wisconsin's official state dog in 1986.

Character: The American Water Spaniel is a medium sized dog. This American original excels at flushing out game and retrieving. As is typical of the Spaniel breed they hunt both feather and fur with excitement and enthusiasm. The American Water Spaniel is friendly, willing to please, and intelligent. They are avid hunters, farm workers, and amiable companions.

Temperament: This breed is loyal, energetic, obedient, and persistent. They are generally gentle with children and other pets. They may become aggressive with dogs they do not know. The American Water Spaniel is an ideal family pet. If they are properly introduced they are friendly with strangers. They may become attached to one particular person within the family unit. They are an excellent watchdog, and have a tendency to bark excessively. Many American Water Spaniel' will "yodel" when excited. They love attention, but are fully capable of creating their own entertainment.

Care: American Water Spaniels require a thorough brushing at least twice a week. Bathing should only be done when absolutely necessary using a mild shampoo. It is essential that the coat not be stripped of the natural oils. Occasional professional clipping of the coat is recommended to keep this breed from looking "ratty". The lack of popularity of the American Water Spaniel has enabled them to remain free of genetic health issues. They may, however, have skin problems.

Training: The American Water Spaniel is slow to maturation and may be two years of age before they are able to settle into a training program. However, they do require extensive socialization at an early age. They may be difficult to housetrain and the crate method is highly recommended. This breed has a highly sensitive nature and does not respond to harsh or heavy-handed training methods. If they are harshly disciplined they may exhibit "fear-biting". It is important that training be done with patience, love, respect, consistency, and fairness.

Activity: American Water Spaniels require an inordinate amount of physical exercise, and enjoys swimming and hunting. They have a tendency to roam, so daily jogging or walking must be done with the American Water Spaniel securely leashed. They benefit from play sessions such as Frisbee or a game of "fetch". The American Water Spaniel will do okay in an apartment provided they are given sufficient exercise and a securely fenced yard is available. They prefer a home in the country setting with room to run.

Ownership: If you are looking for American Water Spaniel puppies for sale from reputable American Water Spaniel breeders or to adopt an American Water Spaniel from an American Water Spaniel rescue then make sure you understand as much about the dog breeds you are interested in as you can. Every puppy breed is different. Begin your research by reading the breed information about the American Water Spaniel puppy above. Search our dog breeds section to find American Water Spaniel puppies, dogs and puppies that make great pets.

American Water Spaniel, American Water Spaniel Dog, American Water Spaniel Breeders, American Water Spaniel Picture

 

   

American Eskimo Dog, American Eskimo Dog Breeders, American Eskimo Dog Picture


Breed Group: Non-Sporting

Weight: 6-40 lbs

Height: 9-19 inches

Color(s): white, or white with biscuit cream

Coat: The American Eskimo Dog has a glorious standoff double-coat. The under coat is dense with a longer coat of guard hair that grows through to form the outer coat. The outer coat is straight with no wave or curl. There is a profuse ruff around the neck. The backs of the front and rear legs are well feathered. The coat color is white, or white with cream or biscuit markings. This breed is an average shedder that "blows" their coat twice a year.

Overview: The exact origin of this breed is unknown, although it is widely believed this companion dog originated in the United States by German immigrants in the 20th century. A Member of the Spitz family, the American Eskimo Dog comes in three different varieties: toy, miniature, and standard. They became extremely popular in the 1930's and 1940's as a circus performer.

Character: Commonly referred to as the Eskie, this breed is compact and strong. A Nordic type dog, they are exceedingly agile and alert. They are considered to be one of the most intelligent of all dog breeds. The American Eskimo Dog is well balanced, hardy, and known for their longevity. This versatile breed possesses outstanding working skills, and makes a lovely companion.

Temperament: Bred solely to be companions, the American Eskimo Dog thrives on being part of the family. This charming and playful breed is excellent with children, and loves to be lavished with attention. They are suspicious and wary of strangers and make good guardians of their family and home. They love to bark and will sound the alarm whenever they deem it necessary. This breed does not do well if left alone for extended periods of time or if they are isolated, as they will engage in destructive activities.

Care: This breed requires firm bristle brushing twice weekly to prevent tangles and mats. Daily brushing may be necessary when they are shedding. They have drier skin than most other breeds; so bathing should only be done when absolutely necessary. The American Eskimo Dog is prone to hip dysplasia, cataracts, and progressive retinal atrophy.

Training: The American Eskimo Dog is easy to train and eager to please. This breed is highly talented in obedience trials. It is crucial they have early socialization to prevent aggression later in life. Training must be done with firmness, fairness, consistency, and positive reinforcement. The American Eskimo Dog is quite gifted in guarding, performing tricks, competitive obedience, agility, and narcotics detection.

Activity: This breed must have regular daily exercise. They enjoy securely leashed walks or playing in an enclosed yard. The American Eskimo Dog is active indoors and has a busy nature. They benefit immensely from family play sessions. They will do okay in an apartment provided they are sufficiently exercised and paid attention to.

Ownership: If you are looking for American Eskimo Dog puppies for sale from reputable American Eskimo Dog breeders or to adopt an American Eskimo Dog from an American Eskimo Dog rescue then make sure you understand as much about the dog breeds you are interested in as you can. Every puppy breed is different. Begin your research by reading the breed information about the American Eskimo Dog puppy above. Search our dog breeds section to find American Eskimo Dog puppies, dogs and puppies that make great pets.

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