Are you ready for another instalment of Dogs of the Week?

Belgian Shepherd              

Also known as the Continental Shepherd, this dog was originally one of four variations in the breed, called the Groenendael variation.  The other three, the Laekenois, Malinois and Tervuren have since been separated into different breeds. These dogs were originally used for guarding sheep and cows before becoming popular as police dogs in the United States.  They had parts in World War I as draft, sentry and messenger dogs, and have since gained popularity as family guardians.

Males and females average 22-26 inches and weigh 70 – 80 lbs.

As for temperament, these dogs are watchful and active at all times, and while they can be affectionate to the family, are aloof and wary of strangers.  As in most herding and guarding breeds, this dog can be aggressive to strangers and other pets, and can have a sharp temper if not worked with early in life. They are intelligent, but tend to be independent and can be domineering.

This dog has a long coat, and needs to be brushed at least once a week, and extra carefully during the spring and fall shedding periods.  This dog needs vigorous daily exercise, and is active throughout the day.

Suggested test is for hips.

Other possible concerns:

Epilepsy and skin allergies.

Berner Laufhund                         

Also called the Bernese Hound, this dog is a descendant of the Nile Dog, which hailed from the Phoenicians and Egyptians. It then moved to Europe and settled in Switzerland. This dog is used for hunting hares, as well as being a bird dog.

Males and females average 16-17 inches and weigh 33 – 40 lbs.

As for temperament, this dog is an intelligent and gentle family dog, that has also been described as a “free spirit”.  This is, however an active dog that needs a lot of exercise, preferably on steeper terrain.

This dog  needs brushing occasionally.

Suggested test is for hips.

With that, I will see you next time with another pair of breeds!

Well, I know it has been a long gap between these, but I had a wedding to plan.  Now I am back, so let’s have another round of dogs!

Bearded Collie     

This dog, affectionately called the “beardie” has a history that is first recorded in 1514 as a pair of lowland Polish sheepdogs being brought to Scotland with traders. The recognized form for today is first seen in the 19th century, and for a short period of time as two versions.  The Border strain was brown and white with a slight wave to the coat, and the Highland strain was gray and white. This have since re-merged into one breed, and were officially recognized in 1976.

Males and females average 20-22 inches and weigh 48-50 lbs.

As for temperament, these dogs are quite active and love to be outdoors.  They will make a maximum effort to entertain those around them, and are quite sociable.  While it loves children, it may be too energetic around small children and may attempt to herd when playing.

This dog has a long coat that needs brushing or combing every other day, and needs vigorous exercise daily.  It prefers cooler climates, but prefers to be with the family most of all.

Suggested tests are for hips, eyes and the heart.

Other possible concerns:

epilepsy, colonic disease and cataracts.

Bavarian Mountain Hound 

This hound is descended from the original scenthound group known as the “Bracken”, which are known for their ability to track and trail. This hound was bred for a lighter scenthound that could be used in-leash in the mountains as a bird and hare dog. It was officially recognized by the UKC in 1996.

Males and females average 18-20 inches and weigh 50-75 lbs.

As for temperament, this is a brave yet obedient dog.  Although it is loving towards its owners, it may be cautious around strangers.

This dog has a coat which should be massaged daily, and a lot of exercise, either on a leash or in a fenced yard, as it will go after a scent if not monitored closely.

Suggested tests are for eyes and hips.

With that, we have come to the conclusion of another pair!