Welcome to another addition of Dogs of the Week! I hope no one has been washed away, it’s been a flood here recently.

Bergamasco Sheepdog          

This dog originated in Bergamo, Italy, where it was used as a sheepdog until World War II when wool production fell off and the breed almost disappeared!  Although they look ragged and unkempt, this is the natural hair of the breed, which is due to the three different hair fibers that exist.  These three are described as “dog hair” “goat hair” and “wool” when talking of texture and consistency.

Males and females average 23 inches and weigh 65 – 80 lbs.

As for temperament, these dogs are hardworking, vigilant and courageous, but gentle when in a family setting.  They are, however, independent thinkers and may seem a bit wilful.

When grooming, the coat will naturally take on the well-known “mop” appearance, but may need to be hand-divided into appropriate sizes.  There is relatively little shedding, and the sections will reach ground length by age six. This is a herding dog that will need ample exercise.

Suggested test is for hips.

Other possible concerns:

Hip dysplasia, eye problems, and possible skin problems due to grooming concerns.

Black and Tan Coonhound  

This hound is believed to have begun as a cross between a foxhound and a bloodhound. They were used mostly in the mountain ranges to track and hunt raccoons and bears, and were officially recognized in 1945 by the AKC.

Males and females average between 24 – 27 inches and weigh 60 – 80 lbs.

As for temperament, these dogs are gentle and friendly by nature, but they are trackers born and bred. They  will follow scent trails, and if they find their quarry, will bay until the owner arrives.

These dogs will drool and the face may need to be wiped.  The coat will need to be brushed, and this dog will shed a moderate amount.  Also, ample exercise is needed, as this is a tracking and roaming dog.

Suggested tests are for hips, heart and eyes.

Other possible concerns:

Hip dysplasia, eye problems, hypothyroidism, haemophilia

Coonhound Paralysis can be caused by raccoon saliva to some susceptible hounds.

See you again soon!

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!

Welcome to another addition of Dogs of the Week. I hope everyone is staying dry…

Australian Kelpie 

This dog is also known as the Australian Sheep dog.  It originated when British dogs were transported to Australia as cattle herders as well as herders for goats, poultry and reindeer.  Some think they may have then crossed with the indigenous dingoes.  They have been known as a breed since 1870.

Males and females average 17-20 inches and weigh 25-45 lbs.

As for temperament, this dog is tireless, an excellent herding dog with easy train-ability.  They also make good watchdogs and seeing eye dogs, and will work until they drop. However, this will never be a great couch dog or apartment dog, as the kelpie has boundless energy, and a need for work.  They will want to herd anything they can find, including children and other dogs.  Being a naturally dominant dog, this breed will need a calm but firm owner.  Easy-goers and the meek will not do well with this dog.  This breed needs leadership and plenty of exercise to live happily in a home.

This breed only requires occasional brushing.  Only bathe if truly needed, as this can remove the kelpie’s natural oils that serve to weatherproof its coat.

Suggested tests are for hips and eyes.

Basset Fauve de Bretagne  

This dog hails from 16th century France, where it is both a popular family dog, and an avid gundog with anything from rabbits to wild boar. It was first seen in the United States in 1987, and recognised as a breed in 1991.  Only about 85 reside in the U.S. at this time.

Males and females average between 11-14 inches and weigh 30-40 lbs.

Temperamentally, this dog is an avid hunter and active dog, which should be taken into consideration when looking into a home.  It is also a quiet and calm family dog, but strong and fearless when chasing quarry.

This dog requires ample exercise and firm training, but can adapt to many lifestyles. Weekly brushing is required.

Suggested tests are for eyes and ears.

Other health concerns are epilepsy and corneal ulcers.

That concludes today’s dogs.  I will be getting on again in a few weeks for the next instalment (I am getting married this Saturday!), so until then, enjoy the weather!

Well, I guess I should have called this Dogs of the Month instead.  This time I will go over the Australian Cattle Dog and the Beagle.

Australian Cattle Dog

This dog is also called the Blue, Hall or Queensland Heeler. It originated in Australia for the ranchers that called for a herder with more stamina and determination in a hotter and drier climate, as well as keeping quiet when herding so as not to spook wild cattle.  It was recognized in 1980 by the AKC, and is slowly gaining in popularity today.

Males and females average 17-20 inches and weigh 35 – 45 lbs.

Temperamentally, this dog is commonly described as  hardy, independent, stubborn, tenacious, energetic and untiring. It needs a job, or it will find one itself, which may not be acceptable in the home. it needs hard physical exercise daily, and it is among the most responsive and obedient of dogs, but it tends to nip at the heels of running children. This can be gleaned from its need to herd.

This dog needs to be challenged mentally and physically every day, or else it may get into trouble when bored. The Australian cattle dog can live outdoors in temperate to cool climates, but it is unsuited for apartment life. It needs weekly brushing to remove dead hairs.

The suggested tests to do before breeding or adopting out puppies are for hips, hearing and eyes.

Other possible concerns:

hip dysplasia, joint disease, deafness and

Progressive retinal atrophy – this is where the light-sensing receptors in the back of the retina deteriorate over time, eventually causing the dog to become blind.  This can be checked with a simple eye exam from your vet.  There is no treatment for this, but other than the blindness, there are no other health concerns directly connected with this disease.  Most of the specialized care for this has to do with keeping things safe and easily attainable for the dog, like food and water in the same place and easy to get to, and no unattended trips on staircases or the yard.

Beagle

This dog heralds from the 14th Century, with a name meaning either “open throat” in French or “small” in Celtic/Old English.  The first it was mentioned in America was 1642, and by the end of the 19th century, beagles were popular competitors in both field and conformation exhibitions. It has become one of America’s all-time favorite breeds, finding its special niche as a family pet.

Males and females average 13-15 inches and weigh 18-30 lbs.

Temperament-wise, this dog is a social dog, needing companionship and an active family, and can be loud and expressive, especially when left alone for long periods of time.  It loves to explore, and tends to wander off, so make sure it is either fenced-in, or accompanied by someone to ensure it can find it’s way home. it is gentle and tolerant around children, and loves to be part of the action.

This dog does need exercise daily and is a low maintenance dog when it comes to grooming.

The suggested tests before breeding or adopting out puppies for this breed are for hips and eyes.

Other possible concerns:

intervertebral disc disease (the spine), joint disease, glaucoma, and epilepsy.