Small Dog Breeds

Following on from Friday’s list of large dog breeds, here is a list of popular small dog breeds:

· Bichon Frise

· Boston Terrier

· Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

· Chihuahua

· Chinese Crested Dog

· Dachshund

· French Bulldog

· Fox Terrier

· Havanese

· Italian Greyhound

· Jack Russell Terrier

· Lhasa Apso

· Maltese

· Mexican Hairless

· Papillon

· Pekingese

· Pomeranian

· Poodle (Toy)

· Pug

· Schipperke

· Scottish Terrier

· Shetland Sheepdog

· Shih Tzu

· Welsh Corgi

· West Highland White Terrier

· Whippet

· Wirehaired Pointing Griffon

· Yorkshire Terrier

Poodle Mix Breeds

There has been an explosion in the popularity of Poodle Mixed Breeds, or Hybrid Dogs. A Hybrid Dog is a mix of two pure breeds.

Poodles may be so popular because of their good nature and hypoallergenic properties (they are non-shedding).

Choosing a dog breed is tough, because there are so many of them! Why not choose a Hybrid Dog?

There are many Poodle Mix Dogs. Here at ChoosingADogBreed we have compiled a list of some of our favourites (not necessarily the best dog breeds!):

• St Berdoodle (St Bernard / Standard Poodle)
• Giant Schnoodle (Giant Schnauzer / Standard Poodle)
• Bossi-Poo (Boston Terrier / Poodle)
• Pootalian (Italian Greyhound / Poodle)
• Westiepoo, pictured above (West Highland Terrier / Poodle)
• Whoodle (Soft Coated Wheaton Terrier / Poodle)
• Weimardoodle (Weimaraner / Poodle)
• Sheepadoodle (Old English Sheepdog / Standard Poodle)
• Shih-Poo (Shih-Tzu / Poodle)
• Pekapoo (Pekingese / Poodle)
• Labradoodle (Labrador / Poodle)

Poodle Hybrid Dogs can make excellent pets. Poodles are wonderful pure breeds and when bred with another friendly breed, the possibilities seem endless!

Large Dog Breeds

If you are at the start of the choosing a dog breed process, you might just be as far as choosing the size of dog you would like. This is often a starting point. Here is a list of popular large dog breeds to give you an idea of how many different dogs breeds there are:

· Afghan

· Akita Dog

· Alaskan Malamute

· Bernese Mountain Dog

· Bloodhound

· Boxer

· Bullmastiff

· Collie

· Dalmation

· Doberman Pinscher

· English Pointer

· English Setter

· German Shepard

· Giant Schnauzer

· Golden Retriever

· Great Dane

· Greater Swiss Mountain Dog

· Greyhound

· Irish Setter

· Irish Wolfhound

· Labrador Retriever

· Mastiff

· Neapolitan Mastiff

· Old English Sheepdog

· Otterhound

· Rottweiler

· Saint Bernard

· Weimeranner

· Wolfdog

New Guinea Singing Dog

For dog lovers who are interested in the history of dogs as pets and domesticated animals, New Guinea Singing Dogs are fascinating.

New Guinea Singing Dogs lived without contact with other dogs for thousands of years. They naturally inhabited the tropical lowland of New Guinea, living with the natives of the island. They also lived wildly in the cooler climes in the mountainous north of the island.

Thought to be largely extinct, in the 1950s a pair were found in New Guinea. They were taken to Toroga Zoo in Sydney, Australia. Since then they have been bred and some domesticated.

The New Guinea Singing Dog is related to Asian Wolves who were domesticated between 10000 and 15000 years ago. They are similar in appearance to the Dingo.

If you are choosing a dog breed, you might wonder what New Guinea Singing Dogs are like as pets.

New Guinea Singing Dogs are a rare dog breed. Although domesticated, they have many wild tendencies and are not great pets for most families. They can be tamed enough to have regular handling by humans but not enough that they could live inside your home.

The New Guinea Singing Dog Conservation Society was set up to protect New Guinea Singing Dogs. They are still vulnerable to becoming extinct.

Do New Guinea Singing Dogs sing?

They have a distinctive voice, similar to a wolf’s howl with elements of whale song. They use yelps, whines and single notes as well as barking. It is a complex use of voice for a dog. It only adds to their intrigue!

Crufts 2008 in Pictures

Crufts is the largest Dog Show in the world. From the 6^th to 8^th March 2008, Crufts attracted 160,000 dog enthusiasts to the NEC in Birmingham.

Here are some of the highlights…

Choosing a Dog Breed

Crufts Best in Show 2008- Giant Schnauzer

Best in Show at Crufts 2008 was taken by The Giant Schnauzer CH Jafrak Phillipe Olivier owned by Mr and Mrs K Cullen. This Giant Schnauzer is a seasoned dog pro having won Crufts three times!

What better than to post a blog about the Giant Schnauzer breed? They’re popularity is sure to soar following Phillipe’s win.

The Giant Schnauzer hails from Germany. In the 19^th century, a Great Dane was crossed with a Standard Schnauzer to create a rough haired, large, herding cattle dog. The Giant Schnauzer was born!

This breed has devoted fans. His good nature, loyalty and devotion to guarding his owners is what people love about the Giant Schnauzer.

Standing up to 70 cm tall, this muscular dog breed needs plenty of exercise. These are quick, intelligent dogs. This was utilized in World War I and World War II when they put to work contributing to the war effort.

The Giant Schnauzer will not be the best dog breed for everyone. They are lively, active and need a lot of space. If this sounds like your home, maybe you could choose a Giant Schnauzer!

Pictures of Crufts coming soon...

Bernese Mountain Dog

Bernese Mountain Dogs originally hail from the canton (region) in Berne, Switzerland.

They are handsome, striking looking dogs. Standing tall at up to 70cm and displaying a thick black white and brown coat, they make an impressive site.

The Bernese Mountain Dog is a gentle giant. They are renowned for their affectionate, gently and loyal temperaments. They get on well with people and often get on well with other pets, including cats! Bernese Mountain Dogs make great family pets.

Given their size, these dogs need a decent amount of space to live in and a fair amount of exercise. However they don’t want to run up and down mountains all day! Despite their size (or perhaps because of it), Bernese Mountain Dogs don’t have great stamina so shorter bursts of exercise may be better.

Sadly Bernese Mountain Dogs have a lower life expectancy than many pure breeds at around 8 years (compared to around 10 to 11 years). There is a higher rate of cancer, and other illnesses amongst this breed. But don’t let that put you off choosing a Bernese Mountain Dog, they make truly rewarding pets!

Ugly Dogs?

This instantly recognisable pooch is Chinese Crested Hairless, Sam, the once official ‘Ugliest Dog in the World’ and unofficial ‘Ugliest Dog Ever’!

Sadly this role model for dogs across the world died in 2006. Through his celebrity status Sam made better the lives of many rescue dogs. He made people realise that a picture perfect manicured pooch is no better than one who has a few wonky features and the odd battle scar. Numbers of dogs who previously had difficulty finding a home were given a second chance in life.

The title Ugliest Dog might sound a little cruel. And of course Sam is not ugly at all, no dog is ugly! Sam, like all dogs deep down, was fun loving, affectionate and kind.

Sam is a great lesson to us all. A legendary dog showing us that looks don’t matter. With dogs, as with people, it’s what’s on the inside that we really loveJ

Hypoallergenic Dog Breeds

Hypoallergenic Dogs are hailed as being the answers to the prayers of the dog allergy sufferer. It is very sad to think that some people don’t enjoy the company of dogs because they are allergic to them.

There are dog breeds that are called hypoallergenic because they tend not to aggravate an allergic reaction. This is because they shed little or no hair, or have no hair at all (less common).

As an addition to the earlier post of dog breeds for allergy sufferers, this post contains a list of dogs that may be suitable for allergy sufferers. All the dogs on the list have different personalities and requirements, this is only the start of choosing a dog breed.

No dog can be guaranteed to be hypoallergenic, it is vital to spend time with the actual dog before taking it home to make sure it is suitable for you.

Hypoallergenic Dogs:

• Afghan Hound
• Basenji
• Bedlington Terrier
• Bichon (all types)
• Bichon Frisé
• Bolognese (dog)
• Cairn terrier
• Coton de Tulear
• German Shorthaired Pointer
• Greyhound
• Havanese
• Irish Water Spaniel
• Italian Greyhound
• Kerry Blue Terrier
• Lowchen
• Lhasa Apso
• Maltese
• Poodles (all sizes)
• Poodle hybrids
• Portuguese Water Dog
• Schnauzer (all sizes)
• Shih Tzu
• Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier
• Yorkshire Terrier
• Whippet
• Native American Indian Dog
• Border Terrier
• American Hairless Terrier
• Chinese Crested (hairless)
• Mexican Hairless Dog (Xoloitzcuintli)
• Peruvian Hairless Dog

Dog Shows

Lots of people choose a dog breed because they want to enter into Dog Shows. Many more still love watching them. Here are some great photos from Dog Shows...

It’s a Dog’s Life

Are these two as good pals as Rory and Millie?

Is a dog’s life better than a horse’s life? Young Rory might think so.

Rejected by his mother at birth, Rory the foal went to live at the Essex Horse and Pony Sanctuary. He was very ill when he arrived but was nursed back to health by the staff and found playmates in the sanctuary’s dogs.

Spending his first few months of life with dogs it is not surprising Rory the horse thought he was a pooch not a pony! He developed a fondness for playing fetch and especially bonded with the sanctuary’s Chocolate Labrador, Millie.

After three months at the sanctuary, Rory had grown from being smaller than the dogs to being twice their size. He was welcomed into the fold but it was important that he learned how to be a horse.

Rory was assigned an equestrian mentor; an older horse living at the sanctuary. We hope he’s taken to his new horsey life well!

Can I choose a dog that’s really a horse? Probably not, but there are plenty of dog breeds to choose from.

Dog Day Afternoon

Sundays are all about lazing around. Take a leaf out these dogs' books. Check out the canine chilling…

Choosing A Dog Breed

Adopting an Adult Dog

There is a lot written in this blog about life with a new puppy. You may well be choosing a dog breed yet may be thinking about adopting an older dog.

Thousands of dogs worldwide are abandoned or need rehoming for some reason so if you’d prefer to give an old dog a new home- that’s great! And it needn’t mean giving up on the idea of a specific dog breed. There are charities who rehome specific breeds.

Here are some advantages of choosing a dog that not a puppy any more:

• Older dogs are usually fully house trained
• They can often answer basic commands
• If a dog’s history is known you can find out before you take it home whether he will be good with children and other pets
• Most rehoming charities will neuter and vaccinate the dogs
• You can feel happy knowing you gave your dog a second chance in life

That’s all great but it wouldn’t be fair not to highlight some considerations to make if you are choosing a dog who is a little older. Here are some things to think about:

• An older dog might be set in it’s way and need a little more time and patience to adapt to your lifestyle
• As with choosing a dog breed, be clear what you can offer a dog in your home/ Don’t get a dog who loves running around and long walks if your mobility isn’t so good
• Any dogs you already have in your home may find it a challenge adjusting to a new, adult face around the place
• Get advice from rehoming charities, they are the experts!

Rehoming an older dog is a wonderful thing to do. There are so many success stories and the second list here about considerations to make doesn’t mean you’ll encounter all those issues.

Choosing an older dog is a wonderful gift, you’ll be rewarded with a loving and loyal pet!

Pet Insurance

For many reasons you may be thinking about getting pet insurance for your pooch. It is understandable; we don’t think twice about protecting our homes and possessions so it is easy to see that safeguarding our beloved family dogs makes a lot of sense.

Pet insurance comes in all shapes and sizes, some good and some bad. Research is essential! It is impossible to give a brief and accurate summary of what’s available because there is a lot of choice. There are good prices, a low end figure would be £70 for a one year policy. Always check the small print and understand what your dog is covered for.

Prices generally don’t differ depending on breed or cross breed. There may be variation in policies covering occupational dogs like show dogs and breeding stick so of course make sure you are covered in all the necessary places!

This is not an attempt at a comprehensive insight to dog insurance. Rather it is to advise on the benefit of research. If something did happen to your dog it is reassuring to know you could give your dog the best chance of a successful recovery.

If you are choosing a dog, think carefully about what dog insurance would be best for you!

Puppy Statue

This is a statues for dog lovers everywhere! ‘Puppy’ was made by artist Jeff Koons in 1992. Now sitting outside the Guggenheim museum in Bilbao, Spain this wonderful statue has real flowers growing on it. Well worth a visit!

Do you want advice on choosing a dog a dog breed?

Earthquake Dog Rescue

Last night’s earthquake in Britain caused much excitement and thankfully no serious damage. Earthquakes around the world have caused devastation and dogs are put in danger too. Here are some pictures of dog rescue after the earthquake in Peru in 2007…

English Mastiff

English Mastiffs are big dogs! You may have seen yesterday’s post about Hercules, the World’s Biggest Dog, he is an English Mastiff.

These magnificent dogs are gentle giants; calm and affectionate with their owners. But predators beware, English Mastiffs are instinctively protective and will stand between their master and danger. This dog breed has been names in the top ten guard dog breeds!

Because of their size, English Mastiffs need a good amount of room for exercise and a carefully managed diet. English Mastiffs seem to have higher obesity rates than other breeds.

This breed makes an excellent family dog and they are good with children. Is the English Mastiff for you if you are choosing a dog breed?

World’s Biggest Dog

World’s Biggest Dog... (for the real one, read this post)

This is Hercules, what a lot of dog! This lovely English Mastiff weighs almost 300lb and has been named the World’s Biggest Dog by the Guiness Book of World Records.

Choosing a dog of this breed, the English Mastiff, doesn’t mean you’ll have a dog this size but they are large dogs at their average size.

There will be more information on the English Mastiff soon!

Poodles (Standard, Miniature, Toy)

Are you choosing a dog breed? You’ve probably heard of Poodles but might not know too much about them.

Poodles take their name form the German word Pudelhund, which translates as ‘splashing dog’. This may sound strange but it explains the tradition of the show appearance of Poodles when their fur is trimmed all over except for the major joints.

Poodles were originally working dogs from the Gun Dog group. Their fur was trimmed in this way so that when Poodles were in water there was less resistance to water as normally their fur is very thick. Fur was left on the joints to provide the dogs with protection from the cold.

This style has continued to be popular for showing Poodles. Trimming dogs in this way is called clipping. Nowadays unless the Poodle is a working dog, it is done purely for show.

The French are cited as developing the breed though it has been suggested they have origins in Russia and Iberia.

Poodles come in three sizes; Toy, Miniature and Standard. There’s a Poodle size for all dog lovers!

Poodles are active, energetic dogs. Their working background shows through as they like to ‘hunt’, even miniature ones. They are good family dogs, especially standard size Poodles.

Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

Cavalier King Charles Spaniels were the favoured pup of King Charles II. He decreed that these dogs be allowed access to all buildings. This is why they can often be seen in paintings from this era, they were a popular dog.

They still are popular today! They are amongst the top ten most popular dog breed and it’s easy to see why.

Sometimes called the ultimate lap dog, Cavalier King Charles Spaniels fall into the toy dog group though they are they largest of these. They certainly love sitting on laps and company in general. They are very sociable dogs and should not be left on their own for periods of time.

Cavalier King Charles Spaniels get on with other dogs, large and small. They are great with children. Their temperament is very friendly, eager to please and loving. What a great dog!

Are you thinking of choosing a dog breed? Why not choose a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel?