Archive for the 'Small Dog Breeds' Category

Jack Russell Terrier Dog Breed

June 16th, 2006

Jack Russell Terrier Dog Breed

Photo of a Jack Russell TerrierThe Jack Russell Terrier has a sturdy, compact body with either a short, hard coat or a rough, wiry coat. He is handy size, full of character, and makes for a wonderful sporty companion as well as a house pet. Though he is intelligent, he can be difficult to train because of his stubborn nature and high activity level. This breed is very affectionate with his family and usually friendly toward strangers. He can be easily distracted, particularly by scent and should be kept on leash when taken outside. Training method should be consistent and firm from puppy hood.

Size: The Jack Russell Terrier stands 11-14in at the shoulder and weighs between 10-16lb.

History and origin: This breed was initially developed by Reverend Jack Russell in Devonshire, England who died about 100 years ago. He built up a strain of wire-haired fox Terriers that would hunt with his hounds. They would also go to ground and bolt the fox. Jack Russell not only bred these unique terriers but also judged terriers at West Country shows and was one of the earliest members of the Kennel Club.

Feeding: Recommended feeding for this breed is 1/2 - 1can of high quality meat product (13.3oz size) with biscuit added in same amount by volume or 1 1/2 cupfuls of a complete, dry food.

Exercise: This breed is suitable for apartment life provided he gets daily exercise. However, this breed needs regular activity to curb his restlessness. He loves to play with a ball and can be a good retriever.

Grooming: A daily brushing with a stiff brush is recommended to keep his coat in good condition.

Jack Russell Terriers for Dummies
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Japanese Chin Dog Breed

June 16th, 2006

Japanese Chin Dog Breed

Photo of a Japanese Chin DogThe Japanese Chin (also known as Japanese Spaniel) has a small and square body with a face that is pushed-in and puggish and protruding eyes. This breed can be easily mistaken for the Pekingese, and some believed that the 2 breeds may have evolved from a common stock. What makes the Japanese Chin different from the Pekingese is his more graceful movement that is taller on the leg and has a much lighter body. This breed is a spaniel and shares common traits with the King Charles Spaniel that also originated in Japan. However, he has more of a perky confidence than the slower-moving spaniel. He is full of life but a very dignified little oriental that enjoys being the center of attention. He is happy, affectionate, hardy, playful, easy going, and a loyal family pet. He is wary of strangers and can be mildly stubborn, but he usually responds to patient and persistent training. He needs to be socialized at an early stage in order to help build his confidence. He is usually good with children, although he may not tolerate their commotion and roughhousing. Spoiling this breed creates a controlling, nippy, and insecure dog. He can be difficult to housebreak and can easily damage his protruding eyes on a leash or a door.

Size: This breed stands about 8-9in at the shoulder and weighs approximately 4-8lb.

History and origin: The Japanese Chin was developed in China and introduced into Japan centuries ago. For over 1000 years, he was a favorite of the Japanese emperors that one of them even decreed that all Japanese Chins should be worshipped. Some tiny varieties were even kept in hanging cages in the same manner as small oriental birds. The breed eventually found his way to Europe with returning seamen during the 19th century. However, the Japanese Chin did not make his appearance in the British show ring until 1862 and is not recorded as being shown in the United States until 20 years later. A couple of Japanese Chins were presented to Queen Victoria by Commodore Perry on his return from the Far East in 1853, which contributed to the popularity of the breed.

Feeding: Recommended feeding for this breed is 6-8oz of cooked mince beef or 1/2 can (13.3oz size) of high-quality brand of dog food with plenty of dog biscuits. He also enjoys lean meat scraps and occasional non-splintery bones.

Exercise: This is an easygoing breed that is ideal for apartment living provided he is walked once or twice a day. He likes to climb and would need extra care to make sure he does not fall off from high places.

Grooming: His long, straight, and silky coat sheds and requires daily brushing with a pure bristle brush. He also needs an occasional trim to keep his coat in good condition.

Japanese Chin (Comprehensive Owners Guide)
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Kerry Blue Terrier Dog Breed

June 16th, 2006

Kerry Blue Terrier Dog Breed

Kerry Blue TerrierThe Kerry Blue Terrier, also known as the Irish Blue Terrier has a strong, sturdy body and a short and curly coat. He is an active, athletic terrier that is affectionate with his owners, marvelous with children, a great watchdog, and a tough competitor in the show ring. His Irish descent has made him a rugged workman who is capable of a day’s ground chores. The Kerry Blue is stubborn and needs a consistent and firm training method. The “Stay” and “Come” commands are usually the most difficult to teach. In addition, early socialization is important. This breed has a tendency to be aggressive toward other dogs as well as small animals and suspicious of strangers. It may be difficult to keep small pets such as cats or rabbits in a home with this breed. He needs to be well trained and be able to learn to respect his owner’s leadership. This breed needs an owner who is confident, firm, patient, and persistent. The Kerry Blue Terrier may be restless and noisy if left alone for too long. Overall, he makes an ideal house pet and lives an average of 15 years.

Size: The Kerry Blue Terrier stands 17 to 20in at the shoulder and weighs between 35 and 40lb.

History and origin: The Kerry Blue originates from the county of Kerry in south-western Ireland in the 18th and 19th centuries. He was believed to be a cross between the Irish Terrier and Bedlington Terrier, and some think that the Bull Terrier may have also contributed to the breed’s make-up. He was considered as an all-around utility dog. He started his life as a hunter of foxes and badgers. Being a keen and strong swimmer, he has also been used for otter hunting. This breed has also guarded livestock and saw Army service during World War II. Nowadays, he is mostly kept as one of the most popular pet and show dog.

Feeding: Recommended feeding for the Kerry Blue Terrier is 1 � 1 1/2 cans (13.3oz size) of high-quality meat product with biscuit added in same amount or 3 cupfuls of complete dry food.

Exercise: He is a working dog that needs and deserves plenty of exercise. The ideal place for this breed is a house with a fenced-in yard. However, he can easily adapt to an apartment living as long as he gets enough exercise. With proper training, the Kerry Blue Terrier is an excellent breed to jog with.

Grooming: The Kerry Blue Terrier has a short, curly coat that sheds very little and needs to be brushed daily with a stiff brush and metal comb. In addition, the coat needs to be clipped every 2 to 3 months.

Kerry Blue Terrier (Kennel Club Books (Unnumbered))
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Lakeland Terrier Dog Breed

June 16th, 2006

Lakeland Terrier Dog Breed

LakelandTerrierThe Lakeland Terrier dog breed has an appearance that is very similar to that of the Welsh and the Airedale Terriers. These dogs are considered to be a first-class family pet that is considered to be excellent with children. Because this dog is of a sound temperament and convenient size, he makes for a great guard dog with an excellent warning bark.

The Lakeland Terrier has been used in the past for both fox hunting and badger hunting. In today’s world this dog is kept mainly as a loving family pet as opposed to hunting. In addition to all of the fine qualities listed above, the Lakeland Terrier has in recent years been a very successful contender in the show ring.

Size: The average weight of this dog is just over seven Kg (or 17 lbs). The female Lakeland Terrier has an average weight of about six Kg (or just over 15 lbs). The height should not go over the size of 37 centimeters (or 14.5 inches).

History: The Lakeland Terrier originated at the Lake District of England, hence the word “Lake” in its name. However, this does was originally known as the Patterdale Terrier, named after the place it was first worked with for the local hunts. This dog was also known as the “working dog”. Having made its first appearance in the show ring in 1912, the Lakeland Terrier was recognized in 1921 and well established by 1931.

Feeding: The feeding advice for this dog is very common to most its size. Simply serve him up to one can of any type of branded meaty dog food choice, with biscuit added in equally. Another choice is to create meals that contain 1 1/2 cupfuls of a dry complete food, mixed with 1 cup of feed and 1/2 cup of cold or hot water.

Exercise: This is one animal that has plenty of energy and is fast on their feet. So if you choose to have a Lakeland Terrier as a family pet, be ready to move a lot. This dog is always ready for a quick run or a brisk walk. And so long as you can provide plenty of outdoor exercise, this pet is ideal for apartment living.

Grooming: Trimming this dog breed does take some skill, but only if your goal is to trim him for the show ring. Otherwise, a simply daily brushing and a professional stripping in spring will do just fine.

Lakeland Terrier (Comprehensive Owner\'s Guide) (Comprehensive Owner\'s Guide)
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Norwich Terrier and Norfolk Terrier Dog Breeds

June 11th, 2006

Picture of a Norfolk TerrierThe Norfolk Terrier and the Norwich Terrier are 2 spirited breeds that share a common ancestry and differ only in the carriage of their ears. They have small, sturdy bodies, docked tails, and short, wiry, weather-resistant coats with minimal shedding. They are lovable, hardy, active, feisty, curious, good with children, and affectionate with their owners. They are initially aloof with strangers and can be dog-aggressive. Because of their terrier instincts, both have a high prey drive toward small animals and should be kept an eye around cats, birds, and pet rodents. They make excellent watchdogs and bark with the best of them. They are intelligent but can be stubborn and will initially resist training. They also have the tendency to be easily distracted and would need a firm and consistent training method as well as socialization from puppy hood. Spoiling them could incite obnoxious and snippy behavior. Although some consider the Norwich is slightly more outgoing than the Norfolk, there is no apparent difference between the two breeds.

Size: The Norwich Terrier and the Norfolk Terrier stand 9-10in at the shoulder and weigh between 10-12lb.

Picture of a Norwich TerrierHistory and origin: These 2 breeds were developed in 19th century for use as ratters. Controversy exists as to whether Colonel Vaughan of Ballybrick, Southern Ireland, or Mr. Jodrell Hopkins, a horse dealer from Trumpington, Cambridgeshire England deserves credit for founding these breeds. Colonel Vaughan hunted in the 1860s with small red terriers that have evolved from the Irish Terriers. Because of outcrosses, terriers with drop and prick ears were developed. On the other hand, Mr. Hopkins owned a female terrier whose litter came to the hands of his employee, Frank Jones and was crossed with other terriers, including the Irish and the Glen of Imaal Terrier. The puppies were known as “Jones” or “Trumpington” Terriers. Before 1964, the Norwich and the Norfolk Terrier were recognized as 1 breed by the British Kennel Club. In 1946, the Norwich gained independent status as the prick-eared variety of the two. In the United States, both prick-eared and drop-eared varieties were known as the Norwich Terrier until January 1st, 1979, when separate breeds were recognized.

Feeding: Recommended feeding for these breeds would be 1/2 -1 can of high-quality meat product (13.3oz size) with biscuit added in equal amount or 1 1/2 cups of a complete dry food. Increase the amount if the dog is in hard exercise.

Exercise: The Norwich Terrier and the Norfolk Terrier can adapt to apartment living as long as they get their exercise several times a day. They are active, energetic dogs who love brisk walks and running.

Grooming: Their short and wiry coat requires periodic brushing and an occasional trim.

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Miniature Poodle Dog Breed

June 11th, 2006

Picture of a minature poodleThe Miniature Poodle is larger than the Toy Poodle but smaller than the Standard type. His eyes are very dark, ears close to the head, flat cheeks, and a long muzzle. He is frisky, intelligent, alert, obedient, agile, and long-lived. This breed is normally friendly, eager to please, affectionate, and accepts people outside of the family, though he also makes a great watchdog. His bouncy interest and curiosity are charming, but sometimes gets him into trouble. The Miniature Poodle?s high level of energy is not for those who are looking for a laid-back, easy-going dog. He learns quickly and a tough competitor in the obedience ring and agility competitions. He responds well to training as long as his owner or trainer avoids heavy-handed techniques. He can be a bit high-strung and nervous, which are traits that escalate into fear-based aggression and biting if he feels threatened. He has the tendency to bite if spoiled. In addition, spoiling this breed could encourage stubborn, nippy behavior. Socialization must start early from puppy hood.

Size: The Miniature Poodle stands 10-15in at the shoulder and weighs between 15 and 35lb.

History and origin: The poodle was originally developed as a shaggy guard, as well as a retriever, flusher of birds, and protector of sheep. His origin is similar to the Irish Water Spaniel and shares a common ancestor with the French Barbet and Hungarian Water Hound. This breed originated in Germany as a water retriever; even the word poodle comes from the German word ?pudelnass? or puddle.

Feeding: Recommended feeding for the Miniature Poodle would be 1/2 -1 can of high quality meat product ( 13.3oz size) with biscuit added in same amount by volume or 1 1/2 cupfuls of a complete dry food.

Exercise: The Miniature Poodle is very light on his feet and therefore will make a good jogging partner. Apartment is fine for this breed as long as he is getting his daily exercise. He enjoys a ball game or any kind of exercise that involves retrieving.

Grooming: The Miniature Poodle has a non shedding curly coat that needs to be clipped every 2 months. Use a wire-pin pneumatic brush and a wire-toothed metal comb for daily grooming. The English saddle clip and the continental clip are considered to be high-maintenance show cuts. On the other hand, the sporting clip is easiest to maintain. In this style, the hair on the body is about an inch long with a pom-pom on the tip of the tail. A topknot of hair remains on the head, and the face, feet, and tail are clean-shaven.

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The Papillon Dog Breed

June 11th, 2006

The Papillion is a toy spaniel that takes its name from the French word for butterfly. This dog is often referred to as the “butterfly dog” because of the manner in which his ears are set on the head and fringed like a butterfly’s wings. He is affectionate, full of life, and a good house dog. He is resilient, whelps easily, does well in obedience classes, and easily adapts to the extremes of different climates. His attractive look and friendly nature makes him an ideal family pet. But like many toy breeds, he has a tendency to be very possessive of his owners and often resents visitors to his home.

Size: His ideal height is about 8-11in. He should appear to be slightly longer than he is high when properly furnished with ruff and hind fringes.

Brief history: The Papillion is believed to be a descendant of the Dwarf Spaniel of the 16th century and to have originated in Spain. The dainty little Papillion has been included in many painting, including some by Rubens and Van Dyke.

Feeding: The recommended feeding for the Papillion would be 1/3-1/2 can (13.3oz size) of a branded meaty product, with biscuit added in equal part by volume or 1-1 1/2 cups of dry food.

Exercise: This dog has a lot of energy and will happily walk his owner off his feet. However, he will be content with a walk around the park.

Grooming: Daily brushing as well as regular overall grooming habits are required to keep this breed in great condition.

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Pekingese Dog Breed

June 11th, 2006

The Pekingese has a compact, sturdy, short-legged body with protruding eyes and long ears. He has a shedding coat that is long, straight, and dense with a thick undercoat. This breed has been a pampered lapdog that fancies himself as a tiny emperor and also likes to remind his owner of his regal background. He is loyal, intelligent, affectionate, and expects to be petted and pampered. However, he is not at all a delicate nature. He is a brave guard dog that is fearless, fun, and loves playing with toys. He is good with children provided he is raised with them from puppy hood. He is a great companion dog for the elderly because of his low exercise requirements and his tendency to bond closely to just 1 or 2 persons. He has a controlling temperament and is not aware of the concept of owner dominance. His independent nature makes him one of the most difficult of the toy breeds. He has the tendency to bite if he is annoyed or pushed. His owner should be persistent and patient when training this dog because he can be stubborn and will not often cooperate during training. It is no wonder that this breed is almost never seen in the obedience ring. Spoiling will exaggerate his narcissistic nature and may result in aggression. In fact, most of his snooty behavior comes from the tendency of their owners spoiling them. He is very suspicious of strangers and other dogs. He is susceptible to ear infections and eye injuries and is sensitive to extremes in temperature.

Size: The Pekingese stands 8-9in at the shoulder and weighs between 10-14lb.

History and origin: The Pekingese is an ancient Chinese breed that was brought back to Europe after the Boxer Rebellion. In 1860, when the British invaded the Summer Palace of Peking, 5 Imperial Pekingese were looted from the women?s apartments. Before the invasion, this dog was forbidden for anyone to own other than the Chinese Royal family and their theft was punishable by death. This breed has always been a companion dog.

Feeding: Recommended feeding for this breed is 6-8oz of meat supplemented with biscuits and an occasional non-splintery bone. Similar to most breeds, he likes vitamin tablets and will beg for them like sweets. Unlimited supply of water is essential for this breed as well as all breeds.

Exercise: An apartment is adequate for the Pekingese. This breed requires regular but minimal exercise.

Grooming: His coat needs to be brushed using a brush with soft bristles and combed everyday. In addition, his coat must be kept dry to prevent matting. Many owners prefer to keep the coat cut short to simplify maintenance.

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Pembroke Welsh Corgi Dog Breed

June 11th, 2006

This dog breed is distinguished from the very similar looking Cardigan Welsh Corgi, by his docked tail. The attractive face and head resembles that of a fox. His eyes are oval, his eyes dark, and the ears are erect and medium sized with rounded points. The neck is fairly long for this dog’s small size, as well as slightly arched and clean. The ribs are slightly egg-shaped and moderately long with a deep chest, not too low to the ground. The forelegs are short with forearms turning inward slightly so that the front is not totally straight. His coat is double and medium in length, with a noticeable ruff; hair straight and at times wavy but not wiry or fluffy. The Pembroke’s color can range in colors of red, sable, fawn, black and tan, and may also contain white.

Size: The Pembroke Welsh Corgi is a medium-sized, big boned dog who is moderately long and low standing. His height is only about ten to twelve inches tall and ideally he will weigh in at approximately 27 pounds. The female should be about two pounds lighter.

Health: The Pembroke has a long life span that can live into the double-digit years. Grooming needs are minimal, but as an an owner of this breed you must ensure a proper diet and guard against excess because when overweight, Corgi’s are prone to serious back problems. Too much stair climbing and high impact exercises can also lead to injury. However, the most common medical problems you may encounter with this dog are eye problems, as they are the most common complications, with PRA, lens luxation, and secondary glaucoma all found in this breed. Hip dysplasia is also known, and though its effects seem less debilitating in the Corgi, it is of course still highly undesirable. Cervical disc (neck) and back problems are known, as is epilepsy. All breeders must screen for hips and eyes (including retinal dysplasia). If properly fed and taken care of, Pembroke Welsh Corgi’s can live healthy up to 14 years.

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Pomeranian Dog Breed

June 11th, 2006

The Pomeranian is a happy and active little dog that can adapt cheerfully to life in a one bedroom apartment or a spacious home, loving the role of a lap dog or enjoying walks with its owner. Alternatively, he will amuse himself adequately in the yard. He makes a faithful and devoted addition to the family.

Size: The average size of the Pomeranian male is 4-41/2 lbs while the average size of the female is 41/2-51/2 lbs.

History and origin: The Pomeranian takes his name from Pomerania in Germany and is generally thought to be mid-European origin. However, it is a member of the Spitz family, which could mean that its history started in the Arctic Circle. The known history of the breed dates back from the mid-18th century when it was introduced to several European countries. The dog became very popular until following the raiding of the Summer Palace in Peking in 1860 and the appearance of the Imperial Pekingese, some of its popularity was usurped by that breed. The Pomeranian in those early times was a very much larger dog which weighs up to 30lb and was bred down until by 1896, show classes for Pomeranians were divided into those for exhibits over and under 8lb. The British Kennel Club withdrew challenge certificates for the over 8lb variety in 1915. The American Pomeranian club was formed in New York in 1900.

Feeding: Recommended feeding for the Pomeranian is 1/3-1/2 can (13.3oz size) of a branded meaty product, with biscuits added in equal part by volume or 1-11/2 cups of dry food.

Exercise: Although Pomeranians love to be pampered and petted on their owner’s lap, they are also lively little dogs who can walk as far as their owner would wish and often farther. They get plenty of enough exercise by themselves running around inside the house.

Grooming: This is not the dog for those with a busy lifestyle and cannot spare the time for daily grooming. The Pomeranian has two coats to care for; a short fluffy undercoat and a long straight topcoat covering his entire body. Daily brushing with a stiff brush is required. The coat should be damped with cold water and the moisture rubbed in with the fingertips. Finally, the dog is rubbed down with a towel. Working from the head, part the coat and brush it forward from roots to tips. Make a further parting and repeat the procedure until the whole body has been covered. In addition, regular trimming is also necessary to keep his coat in good condition.

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