The Beagle is a popular breed in particular because of the dog’s size, good temperament and very few inherited health problems – characteristics that unfortunately also has made the Beagle a popular choice of dog for clinical testing on animals.

A small dog with a long history
The Beagle we know today was bred in England in the 1830s from several breeds such as; Talbot Hound, North Country Beagle, Southern Hound and perhaps Harrier. Beagle dogs were popular in royal courts. Dogs of similar size and characteristics can be traced back to Before Christ. Xenophon, who was born 433 BC described a dog that hunted hares with his sense of smell and followed by hunters on foot.

In the 1100s William the Conqueror brought the Talbot hound to England. Talbot Hound was a white bloodhound that descended from the St. Hubert Hound that was bred in the eighth century. At one point the English Talbot Hounds was crossbred with Greyhounds to give them extra speed. The Talbot Hound, now long extinct, was the father of the Southern Hound that is assumed to be the precursor to the modern Beagle.

Small hunting dogs in the royal courts
In medieval times the word “Beagle” was used as a generic description for small dogs, although these dogs were significantly different from the modern Beagle we know today. Miniature breeds (or Toy breeds) are known from Edward II and Henry VII’s time, when they both had a bunch of Glove (Glove) Beagles, that got their name because they were small enough to fit on a glove. Queen Elizabeth I had a breed of dogs named Pocket Beagles that were 20-23 cm tall at the withers.

The Pocket Beagle was small enough to fit in a pocket or saddle bag so they could easily be brought along for a hunt. The larger Beagles chased the prey over open country and subsequently the hunters would let the small Beagles loose so that they could chase the prey into the thick undergrowth in the woods. Elizabeth often entertained her royal guests by letting the little dogs run and romp on the dining table. Breed Standards for the Pocket Beagle were recorded as late as 1901, but this genetic line is now extinct although modern dog breeders have tried to recreate it.

The modern Beagle
The modern Beagle is 40 cm. tall to the withers and has a brown, black and white coat color. Preferably with two or three of the colors mixed together. A Beagle has large eyes that are brown with mild almost begging eyes. The large ears are soft, long and round at the tip. Beagles have a strong head of medium length (that makes it easy for the dog to keep its nose to the ground when tracking prey). Beagle has a muscular body and a medium length coat that is smooth and hard.

The tail shows the hunter where the Beagle is
Beagle has a short and slightly curved tail with a white tail tip. The white tail tip is also called “flag”. Beagle was selectively bred to produce the white tail tip that makes it easy to see where the dog is during the hunt, when the dog has its nose to the ground tracking prey.

The Beagle’s sense of smell is extraordinary
The Beagle’s sense of smell along with the Bloodhound’s is one of the best among all dog breeds. In 1950 John Paul Scott and John Fuller made a scientific study for 13 years about dog behavior. As part of their research they tested various dog breed’s sense of smell by placing a mouse in a cornfield and time how long the dogs needed to find the mouse. A Beagle found the mouse in less than a minute and for example the Fox Terrier used fifteen minutes and the Scottish Terriers didn’t find the mouse. Beagles are better at following a scent over land than they are at following an airborne scent. For this reason for example the Collie gained popularity in mountain rescue teams ahead of the Beagle.

Good temperament but easy to excite
A Beagle has a mild and balanced temperament. Beagle is described in breed standards as “happy” and with no aggressive or particularly shy tendencies. Beagles love company and although the dog may be a little reserved with strangers at first, you will fast win over a Beagle’s love. For the same reason a Beagle is not a good guard dog however a Beagle will usually bark of strangers. In a survey conducted in 1985 Ben and Lynette Hart concludes that a Beagle is one of the most easily excited dogs along with the Yorkshire Terrier, Cairn Terrier and Miniature Schnauzer, West Highland White Terrier and Fox Terrier. Beagles are intelligent, but can be stubborn and is easily focused on a smell or noises around the dog that could make them a bit harder to train than other breeds.

A good family dog that needs exercise
Beagles are good with children and are very popular as family dogs. The Beagle needs a lot of exercise because of their inbred stamina and working dog background. A Beagle does not have to be completely exhausted before it can relax. Regular exercise also helps to keep weight gains at bay. A little Beagle dog loves to eat.

Puggle?
One hybrid that is gaining in popularity is a cross between a Beagle and a Pug. The outcome is a sweet little dog that is less brash than a Beagle and has less need for exercise. A Puggle is perhaps more appropriate than a Beagle for city living.

If you are considering buying a Beagle, you should consider the following:

Would you like a dog that is:

• Small but tough and athletic.
• Has a natural appearance.
• Has a short and easy to maintain coat.
• Loves exercise and romping around.
• Has a happy and outgoing temperament and gets along well with everyone.

This can be negative depending on your personal preferences:

• Needs a lot of exercise to thrive.
• An independent attitude that can make a Beagle harder to train than other breeds.
• Can have a tendency to bark or howl.
• Moderate shedding.

Today’s Cairn Terrier
From these original dogs in Scotland the first Scottish terrier and West Highland White Terrier and later the Cairn Terrier were developed. The Cairn Terrier is the breed that most closely resembles the original working terriers of Scotland.

A popular little Terrier
Today’s Cairn Terrier is a sensible and confident little dog who is independent but friendly. Today the Cairn Terrier can be found in families living in everything from apartments and suburban homes to large farms. Attentive, intelligent and long lived the Cairn Terrier remains playful and active well into the dog’s teenage years making the Cairn Terrier popular with children.

A shaggy little dog that can handle almost anything
The Cairn Terrier can have many different coat colors. It can be hard to predict what color the adult Cairn Terrier gets by looking at a puppy. Color changes can occur in many years and the coat may become lighter or darker. The Cairn Terrier is about 25 cm. tall and weighs approx. 6 kg. The Cairn Terrier is a big dog in a small package. By this is meant that the dog is small enough that the owner can easily carry it or have the dog on his lap but sturdy enough that it can play and romp with children and other dogs. The Cairn Terrier’s robust appearance makes it the most “macho” of the little dogs.

Temperament and training
Each Cairn Terrier is unique with its own personality and character but all Cairn Terriers are independent by nature. A typical Cairn Terrier puppy will sit on your lap for a short while but soon fight to be put down again to explore the surroundings. The Cairn Terrier’s intelligence makes the dog breed curious and a very quick learner. It is important that you teach your Cairn Terrier that you’re the pack leader right from the start if not the dog will try to fill the role of pack leader itself. Firm and consistent discipline, exercise and affection are necessary to obtain the best relationship with your Cairn Terrier.

The Cairn Terrier is good with children
A Cairn Terrier seems to almost have a natural affinity for kids. The Cairn Terrier is physically strong and generously forgives unfortunate situations when the dog is accidentally hurt by a child. The Cairn Terrier will react strongly to being teased or mistreated by children, so close supervision with small children and puppies is important. Puppies may need time alone and away from even the dearest children, your puppy should have access to an undisturbed area where it can relax until your puppy is ready to play again.

Keep the leash on
A Cairn Terrier should generally always be walked on a leash as it is an almost impossible task to learn a Cairn Terrier to resist its urge to chase squirrels, cats, rabbits, other dogs and other interesting scents (remember that the Cairn Terrier was bred to hunt small vermin).

Longevity and maintenance
A Cairn Terrier can reach an age of up to 15 years. The Cairn Terrier’s shaggy appearance is easy to maintain with a weekly brushing. The Cairn Terrier sheds very little if brushed weekly.

Should you choose a male dog?
If the Cairn Terrier is neutered or spayed there is no great difference whether you choose a female or male. Many Cairn Terrier breeders feel that the male is more affectionate. Females have a tendency to be a little bit more independent.

If you are considering getting a Cairn Terrier you should consider the following:

Would you like a dog that is:

• Small but tough and hardy.
• Has a natural appearance.
• Only needs moderate exercise.
• Bark when strangers come.
• Doesn’t shed much.
• Gets along better with other pets than many other terriers.

This can be negative depending on your personal preferences:

• The classic terrier temperament.
• Cairn Terriers can be stubborn.
• Has a “what’s in it for me?” attitude to training.
• Likes to bark at even the slightest movements or sounds.
• Loves to dig holes everywhere in your garden.
• The coat needs a trim every three months.

Powerful physique
The Rottweiler’s head is typically massive but without an overly large lower jaw. Rottweiler males are approx. 61-68 cm. tall to the withers (the bitch is approx. 56 to 62.5 cm tall). The average Rottweiler weighs 50 kg. (42 kg. For females). The Rottweiler appears powerful and muscular.

The Rottweiler and the Roman Empire
The Rottweiler has a long and ancient history that dates back to the Roman Empire. Back then the legions marched on foot and brought herds of cattle with them to feed the legion. This is why the legion needed a working dog that could drive and guard the herd of cattle. A road that the legion often travelled was through Württemberg and on to the small market village of Rottweil. The first predecessors of the modern Rottweiler is reportedly the Roman war dog mixed with local sheepdogs that the Roman legion met on marches and dogs with Molossian-appearance from England and Holland.

The shepherd dog from Rottweil
The Württemberg region was an important area for cattle farming, and the Roman cattle dogs proved their worth both to drive and protect cattle from cattle thieves and wild animals. By the late 1900s the dog breed had almost faded away and been forgotten and there was only one Rottweiler to be found in Rottweil. However, the mobilization for World War I led to increased demand for police dogs, and this created a renewed demand for Rottweilers. In the mid-1990s the Rottweiler breed reached it’s peak of popularity as the second most registered dog in America.

Rottweiler temperament
In the hands of a responsible owner a well-trained and socialized Rottweiler can be a loyal, stable and loving companion. But any untrained dog can be a danger to themselves and others under unfortunate circumstances. Rottweilers that are well-trained and properly treated behaves just as well as other breeds and are usually tolerant of children, loyal and quick to learn and eager to meet the owner’s demands.

A Rottweiler needs a lot of exercise
If a Rottweiler doesn’t get enough mental stimulation and exercise then the Rottweiler, just like other breed, will find more destructive ways to use its energy. As the Rottweiler is a powerful working dog it needs a significant amount of exercise on a daily basis. Too little exercise can lead to unwanted behaviour. A bored and frustrated Rottweiler might vent in a number of ways including gnawing your favorite shoe, being noisy and barking or getting aggressive.

An excellent guard dog in need of early socialization and leadership
It is important to socialize a Rottweiler earlyon in its life with humans and other animals to avoid problems with the adult dog. The Rottweiler is a physically strong dog that can be a significant hazard to humans if not treated properly or exercised enough every day. If a Rottweiler doesn’t see the owner as the pack leader it will try to fill the role itself and that can lead to a lot of bad things.

If you are considering getting a Rottweiler you should think about the following:

Would you like a dog that is:

• medium to large in size and muscular in build.
• Requires very little grooming.
• Is full of confidence.
• Is loyal to his family.
• Is a good guard dog that also has the physical appearance to deter would be thieves.

This can be negative depending on your personal preferences:

• Make sure that you get a puppy from a good breeder, you don’t want an aggressive dog.
• A Rottweiler should have a lot of exercise to become a balanced dog.
• A Rottweiler must be socialized early so that the breed’s protective instinct doesn’t turn into aggression.
• Potential aggression against other animals.
• The Rottweiler is strong and will require a consistent owner. A Rottweiler is perhaps not the best choice for a first-time dog owner.
• Can drool.
• Can have flatulence.
• Your neighbors may be afraid of your dog.

The Labrador Retriever at work
The Labrador Retriever is the most frequently used professional assistance-dog in the USA and is often used by police or other governmental organizations as drug or bomb dog due to the Labrador Retriever’s well-developed sense of smell. The dog breed is very friendly, gentle, intelligent, energetic and good-natured and that makes a Labrador Retriever an excellent work or pet dog. An untrained Labrador Retriever may be very brash. The dog breed responds well to positive attention and are very “food” and “fun” oriented. The Labrador Retriever is good with children and one of the most reliable, obedient and multi-talented breeds in the world.

Labrador Retriever origin
The original Labrador Retriever came from Newfoundland Island that is now a part of Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada. The Labrador Retriever emerged over time based on the St. John’s Water Dog (that is also an ancestor of the Newfoundland dog) through ad-hoc breeding by settlers in the fifteenth century. Two new breeds emerged from the breeding program based on the St. John’s Water Dog. A larger dog that was used for carrying (this dog was the basis for the large and friendly Newfoundland dog – possibly the result of a cross with Mastiffs) and a smaller short-haired Retriever that was used to retrieve fishing nets in the sea and is the forerunner of the Labrador Retriever we know today.

The white spots in the black coat
The white chest, feet, chin and nose that’s characteristic of St. John’s Water Dogs, you will also often see in various Labrador crossbreeds. This may also only manifest itself as a small white patch on the chest or random white hairs on the paws or muzzle. The fishermen initially mostly used St. John’s Water Dog to assist in bringing nets to shore. The dog swam out and held on to the floating cork at the ends of the net and pulled it ashore. Some of these dogs were brought back to the Poole area of England in the early 1800s that were very active in fishery. There the breed was frequently used as sporting and hunting dogs.

Labrador Retrievers gets quarantined at home
Some kennels were established in England at the same time as a combination of laws to protect sheep and introduce rabies quarantines ended the breed permanently in its homeland. The first and second Earl of Malmesbury, who bred the dog for duck hunting on his property and the fifth and sixth Duke of Buccleuch was important for the establishment of the Labrador Retriever breed in the 1900s England. The dogs Avon (Bucclecuch Avon) and Down that was given by Malmebury to assist the Duke of Buccleuch with his breeding program in the 1880s are generally regarded as the ancestors of all modern Labrador Retrievers.

Labrador Retriever is a medium sized working dog
The Labrador Retriever is a relatively large dog and the male typically weighs 30-36 kg and females weigh 25-32 kg. Some Labrador Retrievers may become obese and weigh a lot more. The Labrador Retriever coat is short-haired and soft, and the dog has straight and strong tail tht are often said to resemble that of otters. Most of the Labrador Retriever traits and characteristics, apart from coat color, is a result of targeted breeding with the aim of creating a working dog. Labrador Retrievers have a tendency to shed two times annually or periodically through the year in temperate climates. Some Labrador Retrievers shed a lot but individual dogs vary. The otter-like tail and webbed toes of the Labrador Retriever makes the dog an excellent swimmer. The coat is also relatively waterproof helping the dog to swim. The tail acts as a kind of rudder that helps steer the dog in the wanted direction in the water.

Labrador Retriever has a broad head and kind eyes
According to the description in the breed standard the Labrador Retriever has a broad head with friendly and expressive eyes. Acceptable eye colors are brown and hazelnut. The rim around the eye must be black. The ears should hang and be located a bit above the eyes. The Labrador Retriever has a strong and powerful jaw and a muzzle of medium length that is not too pointed.

The black, brown or yellow Labrador Retriever
Labrador Retriever can have three recognized coat colors Black (plain), yellow (anything from light creamy to golden) or chocolate (medium to dark brown). Puppies of all colors may occur in the same litter. Brown or black Labrador Retrievers have the same color muzzle as coat color.

Famous Labrador Retrievers
The Labrador Retriever “Endal” of England, is one of the most famous assistance dogs in the world. Endal has received lots of medals and titles and was the first dog to take a trip on the “London Eye”. Endal was also the first dog that could use an ATM machine. During 2007 plenty of journalists interviewed Endal and his owner Allen Parton. A movie about a year in Endals life is in production.

The Labrador Jake became a folk hero in the terrorist attack of 9 /11 when he plowed himself through glowing fallout and smoke in search of survivors. Jake also participated in rescue work during Hurricane Katrina in 2005.

Lucky and Flo, two Labrador twins, sniffed their way to 2 million illegal DVDs in 2007 and received a medal from Malaysia’s Government.

Vladimir Putin owns a Labrador named “Koni”.

Bill Clinton has two Labrador dogs named “Buddy” and “Seamus”.

If you are considering buying a Labrador Retriever you should consider the following:

Would you like a dog that is:

• Medium of size and has a positive attitude to life.
• Have a short-haired coat that doesn’t require much grooming.
• Loves exercise and outdoor activity.
• Has a good and stable temperament and is friendly towards all people and animals.
• Loves to please its owner and is easy to train.

This can be negative depending on your personal preferences:

• A Labrador retriever needs a lot of exercise to thrive.
• Can have a tendency to jump up on people if not trained.
• Loves to chew on things and gather up objects and bring them to you.
• A Labrador retriever sheds a little.

A small elegant dog
The Yorkshire Terrier has a head that is a bit flat and not round. The Yorkie’s dark eyes have an intelligent expression. The small V-shaped ears are set high on the dog’s head but the distance between the ears shouldn’t be too far. The ears are erect. Traditionally, the Yorkshire Terrier had a docked tail of medium length but this is now banned in some countries.

Napoleon complex or healthy self-esteem?
Although the Yorkshire Terrier is a small dog that can be classified as a toy dog today it still has its roots in the Terrier line of dogs. Individual Yorkies are different but generally the Yorkshire Terrier is very independent and brave in line with its terrier roots. The Yorkshire Terrier’s approach to strangers varies according to the individual socialization and training but the breed may have a tendency to bark and be suspicious of strangers.

Yorkies typically do not seek the role of alpha dog in a pack and usually gets on well with other dogs as it loves to play. Yorkies are not always aware of their small size and do not mind putting up a fight with the big dogs if it seems necessary. Yorkies are very inquisitive and likes to meddle in its surroundings. The Yorkshire Terrier is, despite its small size certainly not unintelligent, it is according to studies in the middle of the breeds when it comes to intelligence slightly above average for working dogs. Yorkies independent nature may make it slightly harder to train than other breeds. Over Protected and spoiled Yorkies may lack the natural “terrier” self-confidence and be insecure and dependent on its owner.

A small dog with a great story
The Yorkshire Terrier was originally bred to catch rats that hides in small and inaccessible places. They were also used for hunting. Like other Terrier breeds in the 1900s it was common for the Yorkshire Terrier to demonstrate their ability to kill rats in competitions where they counted the number of rats that each Yorkshire Terrier could kill in a given time.

The Terrier breeds are specialists when it comes to catching small animals that live in caves or underground passages. Small animals that are caught in a burrow and cannot escape while protecting their offspring would typically fight to the death with ferocity therefore any dog that would hunt such prey would also need to be extremely brave – Terriers were specifically bred to be courageous.

Yorkshire is home
As the name suggests the dog breed Yorkshire Terrier was originally bred in Yorkshire that is a region in northern England. The Yorkie is the result of a mix of different terriers that were brought to Yorkshire during the Industrial Revolution in England. The Terriers were brought along by miners from Scotland. The Yorkshire Terrier made its first arrival on the dog show scene in 1861 under the name “Broken-Haired Scotch Terrier” named after its Scottish element. Yorkies were also known under the simple name “Toy Terriers” that alludes to the breed’s size.

The Yorkie hangs with the celebrities
Today Yorkies don’t need to catch rats it has become a very popular breed that is often seen in the company of celebrities Eg. Justin Timberlake has two Yorkies, named Bella and Bearlie. The famous soccer coach Jose Mourinho has a Yorkie named Leya. Supermodel Gisele Bundchen has a little Yorkie named Vida. Bruce Willis has a Yorkie named Wolf Fishbein after a figure from a Woody Allen movie. Audrey Hepburn also had a Yorkie named Mr. Famous and the list is much longer and includes everything from presidential wives to famous rappers.

If you are considering getting a Yorkshire Terrier you should consider the following:

Do you want a dog that is:

• Small, elegant, easy and conveniently sized.
• Sheds very little and is relatively hypoallergenic.
• Is lively and inquisitive.
• Do not need a lot of exercise.
• Barks when strangers come.
• Gets on well with other pets and strangers.

This can be negative depending on your personal preferences:

• Is somewhat fragile like other toy dogs.
• Can be difficult to housebreak.
• The coat should be brushed and trimmed regularly.

The Siberian Husky is an active, energetic and hardy breed – all  features that were vital in the extremely cold and harsh Arctic Siberia where it was bred by the Chuckchi-people. At the same time as the Nome gold race the breed was imported to Alaska as a sled dog. The Siberian Husky breed quickly found popularity and was spread across Canada and the U.S.

Physical appearance
The Siberian Husky has many physical similarities to the breed Alaskan Malamute as well as many other Spitz breeds such as the Samoyed, that also has a comparable history. The Siberian Husky has a thicker coat than most other breeds. The Siberian Husky can have many different patterns in its coat usually with white on the paws and legs, markings on the face and tail tip. The most common colors are black and white, gray and white, red and white or pure white. The male dog typically weighs from 20.5 to 27 kg. (A bitch around. 15.5 to 23 kg.) The male dog is around 53.5 to 60 cm tall to the withers and the bitch is about. 50.5 to 56 cm.

Color variations in the eyes
The Siberian Husky has blue or brown eyes. It is not uncommon for one eye to be brown and the other blue. It is common to see a Siberian Husky with multi-colored eyes. Most color variations in the eyes are typically approved in the national breed standards.

The Siberian Husky’s coat can resist almost anything
A Siberian Husky’s coat has two layers, a thick undercoat and a longer outer coat. The thick undercoat protected the dog against the harsh Arctic winters but the coat could also face heat in the summer. The Husky is able to withstand temperatures down to -50 to -60 degrees Celsius. The outer coat may be absent during shedding season. A Siberian Husky’s coat requires some maintenance and the dog breed sheds a lot.

Temperament and curiosity
Due to the Siberian Husky’s origin as a working dog the Siberian Husky is bursting with energy and requires a lot of exercise. A Siberian Huskey is excellent as a family dog or sled dog, but it’s completely unsuitable as a guard dog as it is friendly and welcoming towards all strangers. A Siberian Huskey isn’t a one person dog but bonds with the pack. The Siberian Husky is a gentle and curious dog. The Inuit used the dog breed to drag heavy sledges across the ice and to assist in the hunt. The Siberian Husky is intelligent and a quick learner but can be extremely stubborn and independent.

The wolf is just beneath the surface?
Siberian Huskies were described as a behavioral representative of the dog’s ancestor – the wolf. Some of the similarities are that the Husky howls instead of barking and that the Husky have a very active and strong hunting instinct that makes it unsafe to have a Siberian Husky loose without a leash. The Husky will take off after any odor of prey and does not hesitate to chase down a hare or the family’s unfortunate hamster. The Siberian Husky also loves to dig and is a known escape artist. Very few Siberian Huskies can be walked loose because they have a strong tendency to chase exciting smells and do not necessarily come back on its own.

Siberian Huskies throughout history
Siberian Husky, Samoyed and Alaskan Malamute are all breeds that are descended directly from sled dogs. DNA analysis has shown that these breeds are among the oldest in the world. The term “Husky” comes from the Inuit, who was called “huskies” by the white settlers who made expeditions into the Inuit country. The word “Siberian” in the breed comes from the country Siberia. Eskimos used sled dogs to cross the Bering Strait into Alaska. With the help of Siberian Huskies whole nations were in a position not only to survive but to explore the unknown harsh and arctic land. Admiral Robert Peary of the United States used Siberian Huskies in its attempt to reach the North Pole.

Gold rush in Alaska
Siberian Huskies were imported to Alaska in a big way during the gold race in the early 1900s, where they frequently were used as sled dogs. Especially noteworthy was the sled dogs during “All Alaska Sweepstakes” a 657 km long slædeløb from Nome to Candle and back. Since the Siberian Huskies were less than those used before feature dogs, Siberian Huskies immediately dominated the race.

Medical supplies hero Balto
The 2nd February of 1925 Gunnar Kaase was the first person to bring vital medical supplies back from Nenana to Nome (a distance of over 965 km). To honor Balto the Siberian Husky that led the dog pack during the expedition a bronze statue of Balto was erected in Central Park in New York. The plaque below the statue reads: “Dedicated to the indomitable spirit of the sled dogs that brought life saving medicines over six hundred miles to the affected Nome during the winter of 1925.” The Siberian Huskies also served in the U.S. Army’s Arctic Search and Rescue Unit during World War II.

If you are considering getting a Siberian Husky you should consider the following:

Would you like to have a dog that is:

- Medium in size and has a wolf-like appearance.
- Is happy and playful.
- Is athletic and loves outdoor activities especially in cold weather.
- Loves to run at full speed and pull sleds or carts.
- Is friendly with strangers and usually also with other dogs and animals.

This might be negative depending on your personal preferences:

- Needs quite a lot of exercise to thrive.
- Can be detructive and howl a lot if the exercise need is not met and the dog is bored.
- Strong hunting instinct that makes a Siberian Husky chase juat about anything that flees including cats.
- Is extremely good at escaping to go on adventures on its own.
- Siberian huskies have a strong will that requires a consistent owner.
- A Siberian Husky sheds a lot.

The Boxer Breed has an underhung jaw
The Boxer’s underhung jaw has a very strong bite that makes it easy to hang onto large prey. The Boxer descends from the English Bulldog and the now extinct Bullenbeisser breed (Boxer is part of the Molossian group of breeds). The Boxer typically weighs between 25 and 32 kg (55 to 77 lbs). The male dog’s height at the withers is approx. 57-63 cm and females is about. 4 cm lower.

The Boxer with or without docking the tail
Boxer has traditionally been a breed with docked tail and upright ears. However in many countries this tradition has been banned due to pressure from animal rights groups. In the U.K. a race variant with a natural short tail was bred (Bobtail Boxer) in response to an expected change in the law.

A short-haired dog
The Boxer’s coat is short, smooth and close to the dog’s body. The coat is light brown and may have black stripes and white markings. The white color is often seen on the dog’s stomach and on four paws. The Boxer’s coat is easy to maintain and doesn’t shed much.

The mysterious white boxer.
Boxers with white markings that takes up more than one third of the dog’s body are traditionally known as White Boxers (these are not albino or rare). Approximately 20-25% of all boxers are born “White”. White boxers have a higher risk of sunburn and skin cancer than their colored companions. White boxers also have a greater tendency to be deaf in one or both ears. Previously Boxer breeders typically put down White Boxer puppies in a litter but nowadays they are usually placed in a home with an agreement to sterilize the dog. The White Boxer is excluded as a show dog and is not allowed in breeding but they can participate in agility and obedience competitions.

The Boxers temperament
The Boxer is a working dog and has a high energy level as such. The Boxer dog therefore needs a lot of exercise in order not to get bored and frustrated leading to behaviors such as chewing on things or digging in the garden. The Boxer is a friendly dog but it is cautious with strangers and requires early socialization. The Boxer is calm and affectionate to his family but strong-willed and courageous facing danger. The Boxer is a smart dog.

The Boxer’s historical beginnings.
The Boxer was bred from the dog breeds Bullenbeisser (extinct German breed) and Bulldog (which was brought to Germany from England). The Bullenbeisser was a hunting dog that was used to hunt bears, wild boar and deer. The Bullenbeisserens task was to find and retain prey until the hunter arrived. In recent years the faster dogs were more popular and a smaller Bullenbeisser named Brabant was bred in Belgium. It is widely recognized that Brabant Bullenbeisser is a direct precursor of today’s boxers.

The Boxer was introduced on a dog show in Munich
The first dog exhibition that showed Boxer was a dog show for St. Bernards at Munich in 1895. The three Germans Roberth, Konig, and Hopner had decided to establish the breed at that show. The Boxer club announced its first breed standard in 1902 in a detailed document that hasn’t changed much to this day.

The Boxer’s charm is well known around the world
The Boxer was first introduced in other parts of Europe and then in America in the latter part of 1900. During the first World War the Boxer was used by the military where it filled roles such as courier dog, attack dog and guarddog. It was not until after WWII that the Boxer’s popularity escalated in the world. Boxer dogs were often brought back by returning soldiers, and the Boxer was thus introduced to a wider audience, where it quickly became popular as pets, show dogs and guard dogs. Today the Boxer is one of the most popular breeds.

If you are considering getting a Boxer dog you should consider the following:

Would you like to have a dog that:

• Requires very little grooming.
• is medium in size and has a muscular build.
• Loves to play and romp.
• Is a loyal dog with a steady temperament.
• May be scary to some people.

These things can be negative depending on your personal preferences:

• The Boxer can be aggressive towards other dogs of the same sex.
• Has a strong will that requires a consistent owner.
• A Boxer dog’s special short face gives rise to snoring and wheezing.
• Can drool.
• May have flatulence.

A West Highland White Terrier typically weighs from 7.5 kg. to 10 kg. (15-20 pounds) and the dog is on average 28 inches tall. The tail is between 5-6 inches (about 13 cm.). The dog breed has a deep chest, muscular limbs and a large skull. The teeth generally appear quite large for the size of the dog and the dog has a strong skeletal structure for its size. The undercoat is soft and thick and the outer coat is approx. 5 cm. long (two inches), rough and requires regular brushing.

The West Highland White Terrier’s history as a breed
West Highland White Terrier descended from the Cairn Terrier (that sometimes had white puppies) and the Scottish Terrier that also sometimes had white puppies. Sometimes white terriers from Bedlington and Dandie Dinmont lines were introduced in the blood line to breed in certain traits, but this practice stopped in the 1850s.

Some sources believe that Colonel Edward Donald Malcolm of the Argyll region of western Scotland started the breed in the early 1800s. Other sources believe it was the eighth Duke of Argyll, who invented the dog breed. There may have been a collaboration between two people. It may have taken more than a hundred years of selective breeding, to breed the desirable characteristics and traits.

The white coat
The West Highland White Terrier’s white coat made it easy to see during hunts in the Scottish lands,and also made it easy to know the terrier from the game, which was important because hunters sometimes mistook brown dogs for foxes and shot hunting dogs by mistake . West Highland White Terrier also has a strong build for its size.

Originally the dog breed was called the Poltalloch Terrier after Malcolm’s home. The dog breed was also known as the Roseneath Terrier (after Argyll’s home), White Roseneath Terrier and in the late 1900s briefly as a white variant of the Scottish Terrier. West Highland White Terrier was bred to be a hunting dog and was often used for hunting small game such as rabbits.

West Highland White Terrier needs exercise and maintenance
The West Highland White Terrier is susceptible to allergies and problems with dry skin. Therefore, frequent bathing may aggravate these problems. To wash your dog once a month or with longer intervals will typically not cause problems. Frequent brushing of the coat is needed to keep the coat clean. Only wash the dog with dog shampoo and frequently cleaning the dog’s ears helps prevent ear infections.

West Highland White Terrier health and disease
Like most other breeds, the West Highland White Terrier typically needs about 13 hours of sleep a day. The West Highland White Terrier typically adjusts its sleeping rhythm to its owner, and takes several small naps during the day to get the needed sleep. A West Highland White Terrier can easily cope with moderate periods of being alone.

If you are interested in getting a West Highland White Terrier, you should consider the following:

Would you like a dog that is:

• A small but sturdy dog.
• Has a natural appearance.
• Have only a modest need for exercise.
• Barks when strangers are coming.
• Doesn’t shed much much.
• Is easier to train and friendlier towards strangers than most other terriers.

This can be negative depending on your personal preferences:

• Has the classic terrier temperament.
• Can be stubborn.
• Likes to fill the garden with holes.
• May bark frequently.
• Needs to be trimmed and brushed occasionally.

German Shepherd dog breed history
The German Shepherd breed’s original German name is “Deutscher Schäfer Hund” that translates directly to the English name. Just as the breed’s name indicates the German Shepherd was bred to herd sheep. The breed was a result of mating between different German sheepdogs and collies conducted by Max von Stephanitz in the latter half of the 1800s.

Over the years the specific working dog qualities of the dog breed such as tracking, obedience and protection has been strengthened as a result of selective breeding in the German Shepherd line. This makes the German Shepherd excel as a professional working dog in an active environment. German Shepherd Dogs were used extensively by the German forces during the First World War on the Western Front.

Famous German Shepherds
German Shepherds have appeared in movies throughout history, below is a list of some of the lucky dogs:

- A German Shepherd named “Rin Tin Tin”, was one of Hollywood’s largest stars in the 1920s and the 30s. On top of his career “Rin Tin Tin” received over 10,000 fan letters a week. More than one German Shepherd played the role.

- A German Shepherd dog “Strong Heart” also known as “Etzel von Oeringen” played the main role in an adaption of the book” White Fang “which was released in 1925, and in” The Return of Boston Blackie, “that was released in 1927.

- “The Littlest Hobo” was a popular television series in the 1980s in Canada. The TV series featured a German Shepherd that traveled from place to place and did good deeds.

- “Koton” a German Shepherd that also had a career as a police dog played “Jerry Lee” a police dog in the movie “K-9″ in 1989.

- In the movie “The Cell” from 2000 the serial killer in the movie owned an albino German Shepherd called “Valentine”.

- In the movie “I Am Legend” actor Will Smith’s character (Robert Neville) owns a German Shepherd named “Sam” (short for “Samantha”). The role was played by the German Shepherd “Abbey”.

The German Shepherd’s physical appearance
The breed standard varies from country to country. Generally the German Shepherd is a strong and athletic medium sized dog that typically weighs between 34 and 50 kilo but can easily weigh more. The Male dog’s height is between 60-65 cm and bitches 55-60 cm. The coat has two layers, an outer and inner coat. Some organizations allow longhaired German Shepherds, but short-haired dogs are the norm.

German Shepherds are popular police dogs
German Shepherdw are used often in the police and other government organizations worldwide such as the UK Police Service, the Metropolitan Counter Terrorism Command in the United Kingdom, ATF, the U.S. Marshals and duty in the U.S. the breed is alsoalso frequently used in sports and volunteer rescue work.

Coat colors
A German Shepherd can have many different colors. For show dogs the most normal colors are black-brown or reddish-black. Color Combinations containing very bright colors such as cream, are typically not recognized, and completely black or white German Shepherd dogs are recognized in some countries but not others.

Long-haired German Shepherds
Long-haired German Shepherd dogs looks a lot like the Belgian Shepherd dog. The long-haired gene is recessive. One myth says that the longhaired German Shepherd (with the English nickname “fuzzies”) are more affectionate, but there is no empirical evidence to confirm this.

The White German Shepherd (Berger Blanc Suisse)
The recessive gene for the white coat became an integral part of the German Shepherd’s DNA in the German breeding program that extensively used dogs that had the gene. White Shepherd dogs can be everything from completely white to an almost golden blonde color. Normal pigmentation was expected in the nose, pads and eyes.

The German Shepherd’s temperament
The dog breed has a personality characterized by direct and fearless willingness to protect what the German Shepherd sees as its “territory” (ie a house, car, belongings etc.) or “pack” (ie, human, family, etc.) German Shepherds are both suitable and able to fulfill the role as pet, guard dog, herding dog or what the circumstances require.

Early and good socialization of your puppy is one of two important factors that helps determine a German Shepherd’s temperament as an adult. Genetics is another major factor.

German Shepherds likes to be in the company of humans and other animals, but early socialization of the puppy is important to avoid aggressive or dangerous behavior in the adult German Shepherd. Shepherd dogs are well suited for obedience and agility competitions. There are a number of prestigious titles in Germany in the so-called Schutzhund competitions.

A German Shepherd puppy’s ears are not erect before the puppy are several weeks or months old, and the ears typically go through several stages of an ear-down, both-ears-down, one-ear-down, etc. before both ears remain erect.

German Shepherd’s exercise needs
All dogs should receive daily physical and mental stimulation. A German Shepherd needs both to thrive. Depending on the dog’s age and individual needs, physical activity for the dog range from throwing a ball for 10 to 30 minutes in the backyard to a stroll in the neighborhood. The German Shepherd is a working dog and as such needs a lot of exercise, it is therefore recommended that a German Shepherd is walked three times or at least twice a day.

German Shepherd maintenance
Under normal circumstances the German Shepherd only requires regular brushing and a bath sometimes. Diet plays an important role in coat quality, and can help to counteract skin problems. German Shepherds can be easily brushed from start to finish in 10 minutes or less if the dog is brushed 3-4 times a week. Time and frequency will vary depending on coat length and condition. Long-haired German Shepherds require more brushing. One bath a month should be enough. In the flea season it may be necessary with multiple baths, as part of a flea treatment. German Shepherd dogs should not bathe more than maximum once in ten days, as over bathing removes the natural oils from the dog’s coat. It is important to only use shampoo that is manufactured specifically for dogs as the ph-value is different.

A German Shepherd’s nails, ears and teeth also need maintenance. If your dog runs on asphalt all day, it will hardly have problems with the length of the nails. However, you should check once a week that the dog has no split toenails that needs treatment. Some German Shepherds have black nails that conceals the small vein that feeds the nail. Therefore it is best to trim small parts of the nail at a time. If trimming too much of the nail, it may be painful for the dog and it may bleed.

A German Shepherd has an average life expectancy of 10-12 years.

If you are considering buying a German Shepherd you should consider the following:

Would you like to have a dog that is:

• Strong athletic and has a natural appearance.
• Loves exercise and challenges.
• Is a good guard dog with the physical appearance to scare most people.
• Are intelligent, loyal and can be trained to fill almost any role.

This can be negative depending on your personal preferences:

• A German Shepherd must have plenty of exercise and stimulation to thrive.
• German Shepherds needs to be socialized as a puppy so it doesn’t become aggressive towards strangers.
• A German Shepherd sheds a lot the entire year.
• Some people may be afraid of a German Shepherd.

Due to their long and narrow build the dachshund is often called a wiener dog. Notwithstanding the German origin of the dachshund’s English name  the Dachshund is actually either called a Dackel or Teckel in German speaking countries.

The Dachshund breeds history
Some theorists are of the opinion that the dachshund has roots dating back to ancient Egypt where old carvings in stone resembled short-legged hunting dogs. The American University in Cairo has found mummified remains of dachshund-like dogs in ancient Egyptian burial urns and that may lend support to this theory.

But it is commonly known that the modern Dachshund is a result of mixing European dogs that includes elements of German, French and English hounds and terriers. Dachshunds have been kept in the royal courts in most of Europe, including Queen Victoria, who loved the breed. Dachshunds were originally bred to hunt badgers and other cave dwelling animals. The first verified references to Dachshunds (originally called “Dachs Kriecher” or “Dachs Krieger” – badger warrior) are found in books from the early 1700s.

Before this, there are references to “badger dog” and “hole dogs”, but these refer more likely to specific purposes, more than to specific breeds. The original German dachshund was larger than the modern breed and weighed between 14-18 kg. Although the breed is famous for its use in the eradication of badgers, the dachshund was also often used to hunt rabbits, foxes, tracking wounded game, and packs of dachshunds were also used to hunt wild boars or even wolverine.

Dachshund are famous for their hanging ears and curved tail that was deliberately bred into the breed. The hanging ears were designed to ensure that grass seeds, dirt etc. doesn’t get into the dog’s ear canal. The curved tail has two purporses: 1) To make sure that the dachshund is visibile even in high grass 2) and to assist the owner if he needs to pull the dog out of a hole in the ground if the dog gets stuck.

The smooth shorthaired dachshund is a cross between a German shorthaired Pinscher and Bracke. The long-haired dachshund is a cross between many of the small dog breeds in the spaniel group, the German Stoberhund and the shorthaired Dachshund. The wire-haired Dachshund is a cross between the short-haired Dachshund, Dandie Dinmont Terrier and the German wire-haired Pinscher.

Dachshund coat and colors
The functional wire-haried coat is very recognizable for the breed. The coat is resistant to all weather and is water repellent. The undercoat is thick enough to insulate against the cold in winter, but is so thin that it is almost invisible in the summer. The outer coat is short, straight, raw, twists and lies flat against the dog.

The hairs on the lower leg are shorter and softer in texture between the dog’s toes. On the head the hair is naturally shorter and closer to the skull. Over the dog’s shoulders and around the tail the hair is very thick and heavy. Eyebrows are of thick straight hair. Beard and whiskers are medium in length.

If you are considering buying Dachshund you should take into account the following:

Would you like to have a dog that is:

• Small and convenient in size.
• A Dachshund actually needs only little exercise.
• Is lively and playful.
• Has a good-natured temperament and get along great with other dogs and animals.
• Lives a long life (up to 15 years).

This can be negative depending on your personal preferences:

• A Dachshund can be stubborn.
• A Dachshund might be aggressive towards especially larger dogs, it does not know.
• The hunting instinct in a Dachshund is strong, so it might chase small animals.
• Can be difficult to housebreak as a puppy.
• Can have a tendency to bark a lot.
• Likes to dig a lot of holes in the garden.