The Norwegian Elkhound can be summed up as courageous, bold, independent, playful and with a boisterous attitude. These husky members of the Hound Group are a combination of spitz-like traits, mixed with that of the hound, and always looking for the next outdoor adventure. With its high energy levels and overly friendly personality, the Norwegian Elkhound makes an excellent house dog for any family that enjoys exploring the great outdoors.
A Brief History Of The Norwegian Elkhound
There is a bit of confusion over the history of the Norwegian Elkhound, mostly because its roots are tied to the spitz breed, yet is placed in the Hound Group. And anyone not familiar with the breed would immediately assume it was a spitz due to the Elkhound’s physical appearance.
The Norwegian Elkhound has always been an excellent scenthound, used to track large game. They have also served as trustworthy guard dogs, herders, and protectors. The Elkhound has been a breed to survive and evolve to performing a variety of jobs during the coldest of climates, the roughest of terrain, and the deepest of ice-filled mountains.
Above all, its most revered usefulness is in hunting Elk, as the breed’s names suggests. The job of the Norwegian Elkhound was not actually to kill the animal, but rather to locate the prey and keep it in place until the hunter arrived to make the kill. They made their way to England and the United States sometime during the late 1800s and recognized by the AKC in 1930.
Upkeep Requirements For The Norwegian Elkhound
This breed has an insatiable instinct to hunt, and was bred to do so during all types of harsh weather conditions. Therefore they need to live with a family that has access to the outside and with a passion for an active lifestyle. Running, hunting, jogging, and playing are all great ways to spend time with your Norwegian Elkhound. These dogs have endless amounts of energy and are not meant to be couped up inside the house.
Norwegian Elkhounds can live outside if need be, so long as the temperatures are not hot, as their heavy coat was made to withstand the cold. Like all loving companions they should be allowed to sleep inside at night with the rest of the family. Grooming requirements call for a thorough brushing about twice weekly. During shedding season a daily brushing will be necessary.
Health Concerns
The average lifespan of the Norwegian Elkhound is between ten and twelve years. Major health concerns that run common in the breed are CHD. Minor health issues include sebaceous cysts, hot spots, and renal dysplasia (kidney disease). Rarely seen is intracutaneous cornifying epithelioma, PRA, Fanconi syndrome, and patellar luxation. Veterinarians suggest that Norwegian Elkhounds get specifically tested for Fanconi, eye, and hip problems.
The Beagle is one of those dog breeds that thrives off human companionship. A very amiable animal that was originally bred to be a pack hunter, the Beagle is an enthusiastic adventure seeker. The ideal playtime for this dog would be rummaging and exploring through forests and wooded areas. He absolutely adores his owner and makes a great social house pet.
Although the Beagle needs daily exercise to keep him calm and happy, it does not take much, perhaps 20 to 30 minutes of walking each day. You will find that this dog breed is an excellent house pet who remains gentle and calm, especially around its family members. A perfect choice if you have children in the house, owning a Beagle is a breed which will make you happy and will never stop looking for ways to please you.
Upkeep And Maintenance
As mentioned above, exercise on a daily basis should be a part of the Beagle’s physical upkeep. Take them out for a long walk or a quick run through a safe area in the woods. He particularly loves to scout trails and other small paths. However, be sure not to take this dog out off leash if he has been boarded up in the house for a long time. If he catches the sense of a small animal through a trail, he is liable to dash off and run around for a long period of time, especially if his energy reserves are built up from non-activity.
Health Information
When owning a Beagle, veterinarians suggest that you request specific tests for eye problems, hip dysplasia, potential knee problems, and thyroid. The major health concerns that are widespread with many Beagles is CHD and intervertebral disk disease.
Most Beagles have a long lifespan of between 10 and 15 years but occasionally have minor health issues to watch out for which are cherry eye, epilepsy, glaucoma, patellar luxation, KCS, chondrodysplasia, and hypothyroidism.
The Beauceron is a highly intelligent and sensitive member of the Herding Group. This breed has the look and form of a balanced, solid, and powerful dog. They have strong jaws, an agile body, with a dense, straight coat. Today the Beauceron serves the function of a protective house dog but at one time was associated as being one of the best of herding canines.
These dogs are supremely focused when it comes to listening to its owner’s commands and takes great pride in learning new things. They are a loyal breed, calm yet courageous, especially under the circumstances of guarding the family. The Beauceron is always ready to please and very patient around children. These dogs score high when it comes to training ability, watchdog accountability, and protection ability.
A Brief History Of The Beauceron
Although the area of origin for this breed is France (dating back to the 1500s), they are not entirely a French breed. The Beauceron actually originated from the plains outside of Paris (the La Beauce). These dogs were largely used as farm dogs – driving sheep, protecting cattle, and guarding the family.
It was 1863 when two types of the same dog had emerged. One was a flock-herding dog (the long coated Berger de Brie, known as the Briard) and the other a guardian (the short coated Berger de Beauce, known as the Beauceron). The first Berger de Beauce was registered in 1893 by the Societe Centrale Canine group. And the first breed club was created in 1922.
The breed was very well known as one of the best herding dogs in France, but remained hidden from outside of the area. They became well-respected in the military as service dogs during both world wars. Their functions included following trails, detecting mines, and adhering to detailed instructions. The Beauceron Club of America was formed in 1980 and in 2001 the AKC officially recognized the breed as a member of the miscellaneous class.
Upkeep Requirements For The Beauceron
Taking care of this energetic and super intelligent breed means lots of daily exercise and mental stimulation. This is not the type of dog that is happy sitting around the house all day. Without the right amount of stimulation, both mental and physical, the Beauceron becomes easily bored and will act out in a destructive manner.
The Beauceron should have plenty of time to spend outdoors in a large, fenced-in yard, but should sleep inside at night with the family. They can tolerate moderately cool and warm temperatures. Grooming requirements for the breed calls for a light brushing once per week to remove dead hairs.
Health Concerns
The average lifespan of the Beauceron is between ten and twelve years. There are no major health concerns in the breed. Minor health issues include gastric torsion and CHD. Veterinarians suggest that all Beauceron dogs get specifically tested for hip problems.
The Shetland Sheepdog originated in the 1800s and its ancestors were from Scotland, which worked as herding dogs. These early dogs were fairly small, about 20 inches in height, which further developed into the current Shetland Sheepdog. It is said that other dogs came into the mix as well, which helped produce this breed, namely the early Collie, the Iceland dog, and the King Charles Spaniel (black and tan version).
Because they were isolated from the rest of the world, the Shetland Sheepdog was able to breed to its original form in a fast amount of time compared to other dog breeds who might have taken decades, or even centuries of mixed breeding to form their current AKC recognition. England became fond of these animals when the British naval fleet used to take puppies back after visiting the islands.
Their name in the beginning were referred to as “Toonie dogs” which made reference to their local Shetland farming area. Sometime in the early 1900s the name was termed “Shetland Collies”. However, Collie enthusiasts were not very fond of his name so they changed it to the Shetland Sheepdog.
This dog breed is a very intelligent animal that is considered to be extremely bright, a bit on the sensitive side, and always willing to please. Shetland Sheepdogs learn very quickly which makes them easily trainable. They are very obedient dogs and just as equally gentle, amiable, and make great companions to any family, especially those with small children.
Upkeep And Maintenance
This dog is very energetic, therefore it must have daily exercise to maintain its physical energy output needs. Brisk walks throughout the day on a leash, short jogs, or playful training sessions are all perfect ways to spend time with the Sheltie while getting the dog its required exercise.
Shetland Sheepdogs are best to be kept indoors with its family, as it longs for companionship and human contact at all times. However, this dog can sleep outdoors if necessary, so long as the climate is decent. It is just not recommended for its stable emotional happiness.
Health Information
As a member of the herding group, the Shetland Sheepdog has a lifespan of a 14 years when it maintains good health. Veterinarians suggest that dog owners have their Sheltie dogs specifically tested for DNA for vWD, hip dysplasia, eye problems, and thyroid issues. The only major health concern that is common for this dog breed is dermatomyositis. Minor issues to lookout for include allergies, patellar luxation, CHD, PRA, CEA, hypothyroidism, trichiasis, Legg-Perthes, and cataracts.
The Miniature Pinscher has been said to be the world’s most energetic dog breed. Of course opinions vary, but if you have ever been the proud owner of one of these adorable animals then you would have to agree that the statement can ring very true. The Miniature Pinscher received its recognition by the AKC in the year of 1929 and is now one of the most popular toy dog breeds in the United States.
This “king of the toy dogs”, as some dog enthusiasts would call it, is a nonstop energy machine, staying busy and active at all times during the day. Accurate descriptions of this dog’s characteristics would be playful, inquisitive, bold, and a bit stubborn, as it likes its independence. Although the Miniature Pinscher can be a little aggressive with other animals, especially canines, it is extremely affectionate and playful with its family.
Upkeep And Maintenance
If you are the kind of person that does not enjoy being outdoors and experiencing times of playful activity, the Miniature Pinscher may not be the best choice for your pet. This dog needs an extraordinary amount of daily activity with long walks and short, but intense sprints. However, because of its tiny size, he can be easily exercised indoors so long as there is enough room to run around.
Although running outdoors is a favorite pastime of the Miniature Pinscher, this dog is best suited to living inside the house with its family. Like other toy dog breeds, he needs to be away from the cold and cannot stand chilly weather. In fact, you’ll find that the Miniature Pinscher loves to snuggle up underneath pillows and blankets when he is resting.
Grooming the Miniature Pinscher is very easy. Because of its short coat, he only needs to be brushed occasionally. As far as bathing is concerned, once a week or every two weeks is ideal.
Health Information
Most dogs have major health concerns which are typically seen throughout the breed. But when it comes to the Miniature Pinscher, there are no major worries. There are however, a few minor concerns which may need to be addressed: heart defects, cervical disk, MPS VI, patellar luxation, Legg-Perthes, and hypothyroidism.
The Miniature Pinscher has a very long life span, living up to 15 years, sometimes longer. If you own one of these amazing dog breeds or plan on purchasing a Miniature Pinscher puppy, make note that veterinarians recommend that you get specific health tests for hip dysplasia, eye problems, knee issues, and DNA for MPS.
The American Eskimo Dog has been a member of the AKC since 1994. With its spitz-like features, this white bundle of love makes an outstanding family companion. They have the physical makeup of your classic spitz, but come in all-white and maintains a double coat. The ears are adorably short and thick, which makes them cold resistant. This breed can be seen in the toy version, miniature, and standard.
A Brief History Of The American Eskimo Dog
The American Eskimo Dog (also known as the Eskie) is often mistaken as a spitz breed. This common mistake is not without merit, however, as the breed descended from one of the spitz varieties that was created in Germany. Other influences that went into the making of the American Eskimo Dog was the Pomeranian, Volpino Italiano, and the Keeshond.
All of the other breeds mentioned above quickly became popular, leaving the Eskie to grow slowly in popularity. Essentially what happened was that the Keeshond dog came in a variety of colors but only the gray variety was accepted, excluding the white Keeshond. Then the Pomeranian standard excluded any dogs over 8 lbs.
So by the 1900s, there were these white spitz-like dogs, all white, and larger than the Keeshond breed, that had no home. It is said that European workers brought these dogs with them to the United States. In 1913, they began registering with the UKC. By the 1920s, the Americans called the dog the American Spitz, which could regularly be seen in circus shows. After World War I the American Spits had its name changed to the American Eskimo Dog, which did not gain AKC recognition until 1994.
Upkeep Requirements For The American Eskimo Dog
The American Eskimo Dog needs plenty of daily exercise, but the amount of physical activity also depends on the type of Eskie. The standard versions need a good workout in addition to several walks on the leash each day. The miniature and toy versions can get by with just a few walks and a romp around the living room. All Eskies love to run and play, especially in the cold.
As its name suggests, the American Eskimo Dog is no stranger to cool temperatures and thrive in such conditions. These dogs are definitely not meant for warm climates. Eskies should also be considered house dogs, spending the majority of its time indoors with the family, where they make excellent watchdogs. Grooming requirements for the breed consists of a thorough brushing of its double coat twice weekly.
Health Concerns
The average lifespan of the American Eskimo Dog is between twelve and fourteen years. There are no major health concerns in the breed. Minor health issues include PRA, CHD, and patellar luxation. Rarely seen is diabetes. Veterinarians suggest that the American Eskimo Dog get specifically tested for eye, hip, and knee problems.
The Irish Water Spaniel is one member of the sporting group that does everything with enthusiasm and vigor. These dogs absolutely love to run for hours at a time, swim, play, and hunt. The Irish Water Spaniel also has a funny side, and tends to clown around when having a good time.
In the mix of these wonderful characteristics, this breed has a high rating in terms of training ability and makes an excellent watchdog. A bit stubborn and quite independent, the Irish Water Spaniel tends to be reserved around strange people and other pets, but is generally good around children.
A Brief History Of The Irish Water Spaniel
One of the most distinctive members of the spaniel group, not to mention one of the oldest, the Irish Water Spaniel is reported to have been depicted in various manuscripts from as long as 1,000 years ago.
During the 1100s, there is mention of these dogs by various names, including Rat Tail Spaniels, Shannon Spaniels, and Whip Tail Spaniels. The name Irish Water Spaniel has been found to be the reference to the breed from approximately 1600 and on. Sometime during that period researches documented that an Irish Water Spaniel was given as a gift to the King of France.
Now we do not exactly know whether or not the breed existed in different varieties at this time or if there were just similar breeds that resembled one another. However, what we do know is that in Ireland there were various similar spaniels in existence. They were the Tweed Spaniels, Southern Irish Spaniels, and the Northern Irish Spaniels.
The one type of spaniel listed above that is said to be mostly responsible to the influence of today’s Irish Water Spaniel is the Southern Irish Spaniel, which is also known as McCarthy’s Breed. The breed was part of the show ring by the late 1800s, in both the United States and Britain, and by 1875 it was considered the most popular dog of the time. Today, the Irish Water Spaniel is rarely found as a common pet or in the show ring.
Upkeep Requirements For The Irish Water Spaniel
Sporting dogs need plenty of daily exercise and the Irish Water Spaniel must have mental exercise to match. Plan on giving your Water Spaniel at least one hour of daily stimulation each day. They are inquisitive and sensitive to your needs which makes them easy to train. And a well-trained spaniel makes a great watch dog.
Like all dogs, the Irish Water Spaniel will lose its coat ever so often, but because of its curly coat the hairs do not fall off; instead they become trapped in the other hairs. This means regular brushing so that the dog’s coat does not form cords and mats.
Health Concerns
The average life span of a healthy Irish Water Spaniel is between ten and twelve years. The only two major health issues that are common in this breed are otitis externa and CHD. Minor concerns include distichiasis. Rarely seen is nail-bed disease, seizures, and megaesophagus. Veterinarians suggest that all Irish Water Spaniel dogs get tested for hip problems.
The Bouvier des Flandres is an adventurous and independent member of the Herding Group. With its fearless attitude and protective defenses, this dog makes an excellent watchdog. They were bred to perform a variety of functions and have both size and endurance to back it up. The Bouvier is of compact size, rugged in appearance, and enjoys the protection of a weatherproof coat.
The temperament of the Bouvier des Flandres can be summed up in two words confident and bold. An all-natural guard dog, this breed has a dominant personality that can easily be trained by the right owner. They are protective of its family and will fight any battle against intruders. So long as the Bouvier gets daily exercise it stays calm and well-mannered inside the house. They are safe around children but reserved around other dogs and pets.
A Brief History Of The Bouvier des Flandres
Belgium is the original area from which this breed comes from, dating back to the 1600s. During this time period the Bouvier des Flandres was a big help in aiding cattle merchants and farmers with guarding and herding. Most of the work was done in the farmlands of the southwestern region of Flanders, as well as the French northern plains. In fact, the name bouvier is French, meaning “cowherd”.
These dogs were also efficient in a variety of other tasks, making them well-known farm dogs and dependable cattle drovers. Like all breeds where a variety of jobs are done, these working dogs came in several colors, sizes, and types. Although the make-up of the breed is not documented, the involved types are estimated to be a variety of spaniel breeds, the mastiff, and the sheepdog.
In 1912, the first breed standard was drawn up for the Bouvier, due to a growing interest from dog fanciers. However, their numbers diminished during World War I. It was the bloodline from one superior surviving Bouvier, a dog named Ch. Nic de Scottegem, which can be found in almost every living pedigree of the Bouvier de Flandres today.
Upkeep Requirements For The Bouvier des Flandres
This is one dog breed that has extremely high exercise requirements and must have the freedom to roam and play during the day. Forget about keeping the Bouvier all couped up in the house until you are ready to play with him. This will cause frustration and destructive behavior. Daily interaction, mixed with vigorous outside games, and the chance to herd will keep this dog happy.
The Bouvier des Flandres has low tolerance to warm temperatures but can stand cool weather due to its heavy coat. They can live outdoors during the winter months, but as with any family companion, it is best to keep the Bouvier inside at night with the rest of the family. Grooming requirements call for at least two weekly brushings to keep its thick coat clean, plus a professional shaping or clipping every eight to ten weeks.
Health Concerns
The average lifespan of the Bouvier des Flandres is between ten and twelve years. Major health concerns that run common in the breed are SAS, glaucoma, elbow dysplasia, and CHD. Minor health issues include hypothyroidism. Veterinarians suggest that the Bouvier get specifically tested for hip problems.
The Norfolk Terrier is a true hunter at heart, always looking to chase small rabbits and fox. These dogs make up in boldness what they might not have in size. Being the smaller dog that he is, the Norfolk Terrier is quite scrappy and very strong-willed, making them excellent watchdogs.
One of the interesting aspects of the Norfolk’s personality is its friendliness towards other dogs and pets. The same goes for strangers. Most terriers have reservations around unknown people or animals but the Norfolk Terrier is always looking for a new friend to have fun with.
A Brief History Of The Norfolk Terrier
The Norfolk Terrier and the Norwich Terrier share the exact same history. As they were being developed, these dogs could be found with droopy ears (which became the Norfolk Terrier) and others with high-standing, prick ears (which became the Norwich Terrier). No one of the two dogs could be claimed as having been originally created first.
Both types of Terriers were seen in the show ring during the 1930s. Breeders tried to cross both types but the results were not promising. By crossing the droopy-eared breed with the prick-eared type, the offspring had uncertain ear carriage, so the practice was stopped.
Both types of terriers were alive and well but the prick-eared type had grown to be more popular. The droopy-eared version (Norfolk Terrier) was all by wiped out during World War II. The only reason why they survived was due the efforts of a woman named Miss Macfie.
During the 1940s Miss Macfie helped breeders recreate the droopy-eared version and soon their numbers rose to great popularity. In 1964, the dogs were officially changed to two separate breeds, with the United States following suite in 1979.
Upkeep Requirements For The Norfolk Terrier
Norfolk Terriers must have daily exercise to take care of its high energy levels. Due to its small stature these requirements can be met with a few brisk walks on the leash or some playtime in the yard. They especially love to investigate and hunt so having access to the outside during the day is ideal.
With tolerance to moderately hot or cool temperatures this is not the type of breed to have living outdoors. At night they should be inside with the rest of the family. They form tight bonds with their owners and very family oriented. Grooming requirements for the Norfolk Terrier call for a heavy brushing twice weekly due to the wiry coat.
Health Concerns
The average lifespan of the Norfolk Terrier is between thirteen and fifteen years. The only major health concern in the breed is CHD. Minor health issues include allergies. Rarely seen is patellar luxation. Veterinarians suggest that these dogs get specifically tested for hip and knee problems.
The Harrier dog breed is a member of the scenthound family and its origins are from Great Britain. The term “Harrier” used to be a general reference to all hounds which is why it makes it difficult to research the exact history of today’s Harrier dog. Dog historians theorize that this dog may in fact be one of the oldest of scent hounds that are still in existence today.
References to the Harrier dog breed date back to the 13th century in England. And It is quite possible that the breed has ancestry that connects with the Talbot dog (which is extinct today), St. Hubert hounds, Brachet dogs, and eventually the French Basset.
All of these breeds combined produced a dog that had a keen ability to track hare with its strong sense of scent and at a pace slow enough that enabled hunters to keep up with them on foot. In the past, most Harrier packs were owned and used by the gentry. However, hunters that were poor and did not have horses could also hunt alongside Harriers. The Harrier breed has been recognized in the United States since back to the colonial times.
Personality
If you have the opportunity to own a Harrier dog as a house pet then you have already seen just how playful and outgoing its personality can be. This dog is much more sociable than its counterpart, the Foxhound, but not quite as extroverted as the Beagle is. Harrier dogs are excellent with children, amiable, and make outstanding watchdogs. They are most happy when able to run free outdoors in a safe area sniffing and hunting.
Taking Care Of Your Harrier
Like most dogs, Harriers need daily physical exercise that can be taken care of with a long walk or a brisk jog out on the trail. It also loves to play vigorous dog games outside. They can live outdoors if need be so long as there is plenty of warm shelter and soft bedding. Grooming requirements are minimal, with only the occasional brushing to remove loose hair. One other important thing to know about Harrier dogs is that they are extremely sociable and need companionship at all times.
Health Information
The average lifespan for a healthy Harrier dog is between 11 and 15 years. The only major health concern that may spring up is CHD. There are no minor issues to date. Occasionally seen is perianal fistula and epilepsy, but both conditions are extremely rare.
