French Spaniel

The French Spaniel (Epagneul Français) is a dog breeds of the Spaniel type. It was developed in France as a multi-purpose gundog, capable of pointing and retrieving. The French Spaniel is recognized by the Fédération Cynologique Internationale under Group 7, Section 1, Continental Pointing Dogs, 1.2 Spaniel type; related to the Small Münsterländer and the Drentsche Patrijshond. It is rare outside its native country.

Size

The French Spaniel is one of the tallest spaniel breeds. Males can range in height from 21 to 24 inches (53 to 61 cm), females an inch shorter. Dogs can range in weight from 45 to 60 pounds (20 to 27 kg).

Coat and colour

The hair is medium, dense, with long feathers on the ears, backs of the legs and tail. It has some waviness on the chest and otherwise lies flat on the body. The color is always white with liver (very dark brown) markings. There may or may not be brown ticking in the coat. The French Spaniel's coat adapts to hot or cold climates.

Temperament

The French Spaniel is an intelligent dog that looks to please its owner. It does not take to a harsh handler. It responds well to positive treatment and repetitive lessons. As they mature, they become calm loving hunting companions and makes a wonderful house dog. As puppies and young dogs French Spaniels are like every other spaniel... High energy and exuberant. They need a place to run and exercise regularly and are not well adapted to small living quarters such as apartments.

The French Spaniel is a true versatile or multipurpose hunting dog that will pursue, point, track and retrieve game on land or water but like most pointing breeds the French Spaniel's true strength is hunting in the fields and forests. The French Spaniel is a medium to close working pointing dog that works at a very comfortable pace and distance. The gait is considered easy, supple, regular and energetic while remaining elegant. They are a tough, determined dog that can adapt to all types of terrain.

Read more...

French Bulldog

The French Bulldog is a small companion dog breeds. The name indicates that France is the country of origin, but the Americans and British may have played a larger part in development of the breed. The breed is commonly called the Frenchie. Also known as "clowns" and frog dogs.

French Bulldog Physical description

French bulldogs are a compact companion dog, active but not sporty, muscular dog with a smooth coat, snub nose and solid bone structure. Their physical appearance is characterized by naturally occurring 'bat ears' that are wide at the base and rounded at the top. Their tails are naturally short, not cropped, straight or screwed but not curly.

Under the American Kennel Club and Canadian Kennel Club standards, weight is not to exceed 28 pounds (13 kg). In general, "Frenchies" range in weight between 20 and 28 pounds. The FCI does not set a hard and fast weight limit, simply stating 'The weight must not be below 8 kg nor over 14 kg for a bulldog in good condition, size being in proportion with the weight'.

French Bulldog Temperament

The French Bulldog is a gentle dog breeds that typically has a happy-go-lucky attitude. Like many other companion dog breeds they require close contact with humans. They have fairly minimal exercise needs, but do require at least daily walks. Their calm nature makes them excellent choices for apartment dwellers, as does their usually sensible attitude towards barking. As a flat faced breed, it is essential that owners understand that French Bulldogs cannot live outdoors. Their bulk and their compromised breathing system makes it impossible for them to regulate their temperature efficiently. In addition, Frenchies are top heavy and therefore have a difficult time swimming. Precautions must be taken when exercising a Frenchie during hot or humid weather, as well.

French Bulldogs can play too roughly for some smaller children, and should be monitored at all times during play. As well, children should be cautioned not to pick French Bulldogs up, as the dogs' small size can mask how heavy they are.

French Bulldogs are essentially a bull and terrier breed, and as such, it is not surprising to learn that canine aggression can sometimes occur. Generally, this takes the form of same sex aggression, with the bitches being the most culpable in this respect. Owners considering adding a second dog to their household are usually cautioned to choose one of the opposite sex. Spaying or neutering can do much to curb aggressive tendencies before they begin. The French Bulldog energy level can range from hyperactive and energetic to relaxed and laid back.

French Bulldog Health

There are several congenital diseases and conditions to which French bulldogs are susceptible, although they are still considered among the healthiest of the bull breeds. Frenchies can suffer from Von Willebrand's disease (VWD), a bleeding disorder that is also found in humans and is similar to hemophilia, which can impede their clotting. In conjunction to this, French bulldogs may also suffer from thyroid condition. Many breeders follow a program of testing younger dogs for VWD, and only testing for thyroid at that time if the VWD factor is low. In this program, the breeder tests thyroid again just prior to using the dog for breeding. Other breeders test both VWD and thyroid at the same time.

French bulldogs suffer from Brachycephalic syndrome, which is what creates the flat faced appearance of the Frenchie. As a result, one of the most common defects in French bulldogs is elongated soft palate or cleft palate. Puppies affected with Cleft palate are generally put down at birth, as it is generally considered to be an almost impossible condition to correct. Elongated soft palate can manifest as anything from a mild condition causing labored breathing to severe condition that can cause the affected dog to pass out from moderate exercise.

Frenchies may also have a tendency towards eye issues. Cherry eye, or everted third eyelid, has been known to occur, although it is more common in (English) bulldogs and pug dogs. Glaucoma, retinal fold dysplasia, corneal ulcers and juvenile cataracts are also conditions which have been known to afflict French bulldogs. Screening of prospective breeding candidates through CERF - the Canine Eye Registration Foundation - can help to eliminate instances of these diseases in offpsring. The skin folds under the eyes of the French bulldog must be cleaned regularly and kept dry in order to avoid fold infections. In extremely severe cases of persistent fold infections, some veterinarians have performed fold removal surgeries.

French bulldogs can also suffer from a condition called megaesophagus, a term which collectively describes several esophageal disorders and malformations in any combination from single-to-double or multiple. One of the more serious complications in a dog affected with megaesophagus is passive regurgitation, in which the affected dog vomits up food or phlegm after eating or exercise. Passive regurgitation can frequently result in aspiration pneumonia.

Another result of the compacted airway of the French bulldog is their inability to effectively regulate temperature. While a regular canine may suffer to some degree from the heat, to a Frenchie it may be lethal. It is imperative that they be protected from temperature extremes at all times, and that they always have access to fresh water and shade.

French bulldogs can also suffer from an assortment of back and spinal diseases, most of which are probably related to the fact that they were selectively chosen from the dwarf examples of the bulldog breed. This condition is also referred to as chondrodysplasia. Some breeders feel that only dogs that have been x-rayed and checked for spinal anomalies should be bred from, but this is a difficult position to take sides on. While it is true that no dog affected with a spinal disease should be bred from , there is a great deal of variance in the appearance of a French Bulldog's spine as compared to, for example, a labrador retriever. If possible, such decisions should be left to either a veterinarian or breeder who has seen quite a few bulldog breed spinal x-rays, to avoid eliminating dogs unnecessarily.

French bulldogs frequently require caesarean section to give birth. As well, many French bulldog stud dogs are incapable of naturally breeding, requiring breeders to undertake artificial insemination of bitches (female dogs). French bitches can also suffer from erratic or 'silent' heats, which may be a side effect of thyroid disease or impaired thyroid function.

Thyroid disease may also be responsible for some of the skin conditions which afflict some Frenchies. Skin allergies, obsessive foot licking, and interdigital cysts have been known to affect some French Bulldogs.

Read more...

French Brittany

The French Brittany is a dog breeds of gun dog that is bred for bird hunting. In French, the word Épagneul means a longhair pointing dog and the English word "Spaniel" means a flushing breed. So we cannot name the breed "Spaniel". However, this is an unfortunate consequence of ignoring the common and original etymology of these words, both in French and in English: the French word "Épagneul" is etymologically related to the old French verb "s'espagnir", which means to crouch and refers to the first pointing dogs (before shot guns were invented), which were "crouching dogs", i.e. dogs that would lie down in front of the game to allow the hunters to throw a net over the game and the dog. The same etymology is found in the English word "Spaniel" as it is related to the verb "to span", also referring to the early crouching dogs or "setters" from which all pointing breeds derive. Why use the word "French"? It is because there are 2 different Brittanies. There is the "American Brittany" which is in the United States of America (standard owner is the AKC with the ABC as parent club) and in Canada under the CKC and there is the "French Brittany". In the FCI countries, they use another standard, the French standard done by the CEB of France. But many specialists of the breed disagree with this division of the breed in two types and consider this again to be based on an unfortunate consequence of ignorance of etymology and of the true breed history. As a matter of fact, many European "spaniel" type breeds are pointing breeds (in France, Germany, The Netherlands, etc.) and not "flushing" breeds as argued by proponents of the breed division into distinctive types.

Smallest of the pointing dog breeds. The French Brittany is a dog with a Continental epagneul-type head (braccoïde in French) and a short or inexistent tail. Built harmoniously on a solid but not weighty frame. The whole is compact and well-knit, without undue heaviness, while staying sufficiently elegant. The dog is vigorous, the look is bright and the expression intelligent. The general aspect is cobby (brachymorphic), full of energy, having conserved in the course of its evolution the short-coupled model sought after and fixed by those having recreated the breed.

Read more...

Wire Fox Terrier

The Wire Fox Terrier is a dog breeds, one of many terrier breeds. It is an instantly recognizable fox terrier breed. Although it bears a resemblance to the Smooth Fox Terrier, they are believed to have been developed separately.

Appearance

The wire fox terrier is a sturdy, balanced dog weighing between 7 and 9.5 kg (15 and 21 lb). Its rough, broken coat is distinctive. Coat color consists of a predominant white base with brown markings of the face and ears, and usually a black saddle or large splotch of color; there may be other black or brown markings on the body. The wire in the photo at left sports the traditional white, black and buff tri-color coat. The wire in the upper right hand photo appears to be a ginger, a wire without black markings.

Temperament

Two of the Wire Fox Terriers most distinctive traits are their enormous amount of energy and intelligence. They have a low threshold for boredom and require stimulation, exercise and attention. The Wire Fox Terrier should be alert, quick, and ready to respond accordingly while being keen of expression and friendly and forthcoming. They can be very loving and exceedingly playful if they receive the proper care. They are bred to be independent thinkers, capable of tactical maneuvering for vermin and other sport. Their high level of intelligence makes them a dog that is not suited for everyone.

Read more...

Smooth Fox Terrier

The Smooth Fox Terrier is a dog breeds, one of many terrier breeds. It was the first breed in the fox terrier family to be given official recognition by The Kennel Club (circa 1875; breed standard 1876). It is well known, and although not a widely popular breed today outside of hunting and show circles, it is extremely significant due to the large number of terriers believed descended from it.

Smooth Fox Terrier Appearance

The Smooth Fox Terrier is a balanced, well-proportioned terrier with a distinctive head that has a tapering muzzle, fiery dark eyes, and folded v-shaped ears set well up on the head, but not prick. It is a sturdy dog in that it is well-muscled and exhibits endurance, but should not appear in any way coarse or cloddy.

The male Fox terrier is tame but it will also respond to your commands. Shoulder height of a male Smooth Fox Terrier should be no taller than 15.5" with females proportionally less, and a male in show condition should weigh approximately 18 lbs.

The tail should be set well up on the back and be straight or slightly curved, but not carried over the back or curled like an Akita's.

Its coat is hard, flat, and abundant. This dog breeds does shed somewhat. In color they should be predominantly white—some are even all white—but typically have markings of black and tan. Red, liver, or brindle are objectionable and disqualifying faults in the show ring. Heads are usually solid colored, but a variety of white markings are permissible, including half or split faces, blazes, or color only over the eyes and/or ears. It is commonly tri-colored.

Smooth Fox Terrier Temperament

Smooth Fox Terriers make excellent family pets. Because this is an intelligent and active dog breeds, they must be kept exercised, and interested, and a part of the family. They are affectionate and playful. They have well-developed hunting instincts. Left to their own devices and deprived of human companionship, undesirable behaviour may be exhibited, including chasing of small animals, or escaping if ignored.

Smooth Fox Terrier Health

The Smooth Fox Terrier generally lives 12 to 15 years, and can live as long as 19 years.The dog breeds is genetically quite healthy. Some known health problems are deafness, luxating patellas and a variety of eye disorders such as lens luxation, distichiasis, and cataracts. Skeletal problems that can occur include Legge-Perthes disease and shoulder dislocations. Myasthenia Gravis and idiopathic epilepsy have also been reported, as well as goiter.

Smooth Fox Terrier Grooming

The Smooth Fox Terrier is basically a low-maintenance dog in terms of grooming. Hair grows all over the entire body equally, so to have the smooth clean look areas must be scissored or clippered. For normal pet maintenance, brushing the coat, keeping the nails trimmed, and cleaning the hair out of the pads of the feet is important. Brushing teeth is also recommended, a dog's bite is very important to its health. Getting your Smooth Fox Terrier used to grooming at an early age is recommended for it will be easier for you the owner to do so throughout your dogs life. Smooth Fox Terriers are known for enjoying the attention that is brought to them while grooming.

Read more...

Formosan Mountain Dog

The Formosan Mountain Dog, commonly referred to as simply Formosan, and also known as Taiwanese Dog/Canis or Taiwanese Native Dog is a dog breeds indigenous to Taiwan. They are well adapted to the uneven and thickly forested terrain of Taiwan, having become a semi-wild breed prior to the arrival of several colonial reigns and foreign powers. Notwithstanding these adaptations, Formosans retained the potential to be trained, and are now used as hunting dogs, guard dogs, stunt dogs, rescue dogs, or simply as companions. Formosans are classified into one medium type and two small types.

Appearance

There are two small types, one is about 40 cm shoulder height, the other is around 30 cm. However, the later one was not found during the research conducted by Dr. Sung Yung-yi, in 1976. The medium type has the shoulder height under 50 cm, with firm and fit body , slim waist, big chest, and half covered ears. The most common one right now is medium-sized dog. Its color range from black, earthly yellow to yellowish brown, and the nose is black.

Dr. Sung of National Taiwan University and Mr. Ming Jie, Xu of Formosan Dog & Guard Dogs Breeding Center described a typical Formosan has almond eyes, firm jaw strength, black coating on the tongue, and triangular face, thin prick ears, and sickle tail. The tail is upright or curved with a thick coat, but the belly is hairless; the tail is used to warm the belly, and may even be long enough to protect the snout from insects. The dog is also well known for its well-balanced.

Temperament and Behaviour

Extremely faithful to its master, keen in sense, alert in movement, bold and fearless. Works extremely well in group hunting. Many owners of this dog mentioned that it is very difficult for strangers to get close to the dog once the dog has establish a relationship with its owner. Only the owner can pat on the dog, and Formosan is very loyal and protective to its owner.

Standard

• Proportions
  • Depth of chest : Height at the withers = 4.5 – 4.7 : 10.
  • Height at withers : Length of body = 10 : 10.5. Bitches are allowed to be slightly longer.
  • Length of muzzle : Length of skull = 4.5 : 5.5.
• Size & WeightT :
  • Height: Dogs: 48 cm - 52 cm (19 – 20 in) Bitches: 43 cm - 47 cm (17 – 19 in)
  • Weight: Dogs: 14 kg to 18 kg (31 to 40 lbs) Bitches: 12 kg to 16 kg (26 to 35 lbs)

• Head
  • Cranial Region:
  • Forehead: Broad and roundish, without wrinkle.
  • Skull: The skull is slightly longer than the muzzle.
  • Stop: Well defined with a slight furrow.

• Facial Region :
  • Nose: Moderate size. Nostrils wide. Black in colour, but can be slightly lighter in all colours except for the blacks.
  • Muzzle: Nasal bridge flat. Lips tight, without flews. The muzzle tapers a little from base to nose, but is not pointed at the tip.
  • Jaws/Teeth: Jaws are strong. Scissors bite, teeth are set square to the jaws.
  • Cheeks: Well developed and slightly protruding.
  • Eyes: Almond in shape. Dark brown in colour. Brown is also acceptable, but yellow or light eyes should be avoided.
  • Ears: Pricked, set on sides of the skull at an angle of 45 degrees. Inside of the outline is straight, while outside of the outline is slightly rounded.

• Neck: Muscular, strong, good length, slightly arched. Without dewlap.
• Body:
  • General: Sinewy and muscular, nearly square in shape.
  • Back: Straight and short. Withers well developed.
  • Loin: Firmly muscled.
  • Croup: Broad. Flat or very slightly sloping and short.
  • Chest: Fairly deep yet not reaching the elbow. Forechest slightly protruding. Ribs are well sprung.
  • Belly: Well tucked up.

• Tail: In the shape of a sickle, set on high, carried erect, active, with the tip curving forward.
• Forequarters:
  • Shoulders: Well muscled. Shoulder blades are laid back. They should meet the upper arms at an angle of 105-110 degrees.
  • Elbows: Close to the body.
  • Forearms: Straight and parallel to each other
  • Metacarpus (Pasterns): Firm.

• Hindquarters: Hindlegs should be slender, with good bone, well muscled and parallel to each other. The rear angulation should be in balance to the front.
  • Upper thighs: Broad, sloping and well bent at the stifle.
  • Lower thighs: Should be in balance with upper thighs.
  • Metatarsus (Rear pastern): Perpendicular to the ground.

• Feet Turning neither in nor out. Pads are firm and thick. Nails are black in colour, but lighter colours are acceptable in all colours except for the blacks.
• Gait/Movement: Powerful gait with reaching stride. Agile enough to easily turn 180 degrees quickly.
• Coat/Hair: Short and hard, lying tight to the body. Length is between 1.5 to 3 cm.
• Colour: Black, brindle, fawn, white, white and black, white and fawn, white and brindle.

Security/ Guard Dog

Currently, ROC Air Force is considering Formosan Dog for military purpose. Now, ROC Air Force is using German shepherd for security purpose. It was known that German shepherd has some downside characteristic. For instance, it was often found that German shepherds suffered serious bruises on its digit pads, consequence of the intense security activities on daily basis. Furthermore, it is notice that German shepherd awareness on stranger is not very sensitive. In many cases, the stranger will need to get close for the dog to bark. Hereinbefore, ROC Air Force is looking to replace German shepherd.

After half a month of testing, ROC Air Force concluded that Formosan Mountain Dog's scent, hearing, dexterity, and alertness on stranger are all superior. Most importantly, Formosan Mountain Dog does not suffer the same injure as the German shepherd does. For this reason, it is very likely that Formosan Mountain Dog might replace German shepherd for guarding Taiwan's fighter jets. The only concern for ROC Air Force is that the Formosan Mountain Dog looks less intimidate than German shepherd. Anyhow, it is still at the testing stage.

Breeder

Most of the foundation stock owners and breeders are hesitate to make public appearances. They stayed behind the theme and sell only males of their bloodlines to those who has Formosan dog kennels and attends local dog shows. Potentially, this may increase the dogs' risk of having genetic disorder and unstable behavior. However, some argues that credits must be given to those breeders as they are the one who are keeping the bloodline pure.

The most well-known and high profile breeder is Ming Nan, Chen. Like many who born in the 50's, Chen owned a Formosan as a child. In the 1980s he started a business dedicated to creating a pure-bred Formosan close to the one in his childhood memory, beginning with a single puppy that he purchased for NT$30,000 (about US$910.00) from an aborigine man.

Read more...

Flat-Coated Retriever

The Flat-Coated Retriever is a gundog breed from the United Kingdom. It was developed as a retriever on both land and in the water.

Flat Coated Retriever Appearance

The Flat-Coated Retriever breed standard calls for males to be 23–24.5 inches (58–62 cm) tall at the withers and for females to be 22–23.5 inches (56–60 cm), with a recommended weight of 55–75 lb (24–34 kg). Flat-Coated Retrievers have strong muscular jaws and a relatively long muzzle to allow for the carrying of birds and upland game. Their head is unique to the breed and is described as being "of one piece" with a minimal stop and a backskull of approximately the same length as the muzzle. They have almond shaped dark brown eyes that have an intelligent, friendly expression. The ears are pendant, relatively small and lie close to the head. The occiput (the bone at the back of the skull) is not to be accentuated (as it is in setters, for example) with the head flowing smoothly into a well-arched neck. The top line is strong and straight with a well feathered tail of moderate length held straight off the back. Flat-coats should be well angulated front and rear, allowing for open, effortless movement. They are lighter, racier and more elegant in appearance than the other retriever dog breeds.

Coat

The Flat-Coated Retriever color is either solid black or solid liver (a deep, rich brown), more commonly the former. Occurring rarely is a coat color of solid yellow, but this is a disqualification under the breed standard. It does not mean the dog is unhealthy, just not the accepted standard for conformation showing. However, the yellow and even rarer cream colored dogs can compete in field and obedience trials. The single coat (there is no undercoat) is moderate in length, dense, and lustrous; ideally it should lie flat and straight, but a slight wave is permissible. Body coat is of moderate length with longer feathering on the backs of the legs, chest, under body, tail and feet.

Flat Coated Retriever Temperament

The Flat-Coated Retriever personality is described as outgoing, devoted, and friendly, an ideal companion with a strong bond to its owner and family. It is a versatile hunting dog, retrieving well on land or in the water, flushing upland game, marking downed birds, and generally performing all the tasks expected of a multi-purpose gundog. Although not as well known and much less popular than the Labrador and Golden Retrievers, it has benefited from that lack of popularity by enjoying more careful breeding and better maintenance of its working ability.

Flat-Coated Retriever love to please, but may be slightly more difficult to train than Golden Retrievers and Labradors. They are easily bored with repetitive training techniques and can exhibit a streak of willfulness at times. For this reason, it is best to make training sessions fun, varied, and relatively short for the dog. Flat-coats are very sensitive and respond best to positive reinforcement. They cannot tolerate harsh handling or corrections.

Flat-Coated Retriever are known for having a sunny optimism and a tail that is always wagging. They are capable of getting along well with cats, other dogs, small pets, and strangers. However, due to their exuberant nature, they may tend to knock over very small children. Socialization and obedience training are highly recommended. Flat-coats are known to demonstrate their affectionate natures by frequently kissing their human friends. They also display an unusual habit with their canine friends: the "flat-coat kiss", where the dogs lick each other's mouths as a form of greeting. Since they are inclined to be friendly to all, they make only adequate watchdogs to give warning.

Flat-coats tend to have a good deal of energy, especially when young, and need to have appropriate outlets for this energy. They need plenty of activity and stimulation, both physical and mental, throughout their lives. Sometimes they are referred to as the "Peter Pan of retrievers" because they never grow up, acting playful and puppy-like well into old age. For this reason, they are seldom seen as service dogs to handicapped people. They need to be an active participant in the daily life and activities of the family to lead a happy, well balanced life.

Flat Coated Retriever Health

Regular tests and clearances for hereditary joint conditions such as hip dysplasia and eye conditions such as progressive retinal atrophy and glaucoma should be conducted by breeders on any dogs used for breeding. Occasionally epilepsy is also seen in the dog breeds.

Flat-Coated Retriever have a higher risk of cancer than most dogs. Hemangiosarcoma, fibrosarcoma, osteosarcoma and malignant histiocytosis are particularly devastating, and occur at higher rates in Flat-coated Retrievers than in many other breeds. According to studies sponsored by the Flat Coated Retriever Society of America (FCRSA), the average lifespan of the Flat-coated Retriever is only about 10 years, with a high percentage of deaths due to cancer. The FCRSA sponsors many university cancer studies and breeders have benefited from increased information on cancer in Flat-coats to reduce the incidence of cancer in future generations.

Flat-coats have a very low rate of hip dysplasia and luxating patellas compared to other medium-sized breeds; the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals (OFA) statistics consistently show a rate of hip dysplasia in the breed of less than 3%. In 1997 FCRSA health survey, 4.2% of males and 3.2% of females had been diagnosed with luxating patellas.

Read more...

Finnish Spitz

A Finnish Spitz (Suomenpystykorva) is a dog breeds originating in Finland. The breed is thought to be an old one, bred as a hunting dog. It is a "bark pointer", indicating the position of game by barking to attract the hunter's attention. It has been used mostly to bark at game that flees into trees, such as squirrels, grouses, and capercaillies, but it serves well also to hunt moose and elk. Some individuals have been known to go after even a bear, despite the dog's small size. In its native country, the breed is still mostly used as a hunting dog, but as it is very friendly and loves children, in other countries it serves mainly as a house pet. The Finnish Spitz has been the national dog of Finland since 1979.

Finnish Spitz Appearance

The Finnish Spitz has a square build, meaning that the length of the body is the same, or slightly shorter than the height of the withers to the ground.It should look like a fox with a fluffier coat. The length of the body is measured from the point of the shoulder or forechest in front of the withers to the rump, giving a truly square dogs a short back. Females are usually a little longer in the back. Both dogs and females should appear slightly longer in the leg. The Finnish Spitz is a double coated breed but the outer coat should not exceed 2 1/2 inches at the ruff. The undercoat is soft and lighter in color than the red/gold outer coat. The undercoat will shed twice a year, and if a Finnish Spitz is to be kept healthy, a good shedding of the undercoat when the dog is ready to "blow coat" is needed. Some exhibitors show dogs with undercoat that should be removed but that is the breeder, owner or handler's choice. Omission to shed undercoat is considered neglect by some judges who prefer a clean and combed coat. Dew claws can appear on front and/or back feet. If back claws appear, they should be removed by the breeder. The front dewclaws can be removed but since they are usually small, they generally are not removed. If the back dew claws are present, they look like toes. The front dew claws appear to have no purpose.

Coat

The Finnish Spitz has a typical double coat, which consists of a soft, dense undercoat and long, harsh guard hairs that can measure one to two inches long. The coat should be stiffer, denser, and longer on the neck, back, back of thighs, and plume of the tail, whilst shorter on the head and legs. Dogs should sport a slightly longer and coarser coat than the bitches, who are slightly more refined. However the plume of the tail is important to the overall look of the dog but should not be too long. Feathered long tail hairs without sustenance can give the dog an unkempt look. Additionally the tailset is important and the Finnish Spitz should be able to move its tail from one side to the other. Most Finnish Spitz have a preferred side and this is not incorrect.

Proper care of the coat is most important. The Finnish Spitz blows coat or loses its undercoat twice a year. It is imperative that owners brush out the old undercoat so the new coat can grow properly. Excessive undercoat can cause skin problems and although a dog may look fluffy and full, the undercoat may be causing serious skin problems.

In the show ring, the coat should be shown as completely natural; a brush through the coat is acceptable but no trimming is allowed, not even of whiskers. However, any excessive undercoat should be removed. Some exhibitors leave in the undercoat to make the dog's coat look bigger. However, most well trained judges see this problem. Another exception is the hair under the bottom of the feet. The hair under the feet as well as the toe nails should be nicely trimmed for show.

Color

Puppies are often described as looking similar to a red fox cub. They are born dark grey/black/brown or fawn with a vast amount of black. A fawn puppy or one with a large amount of white of the chest is not preferable. The color of the adult dog can be assessed by an experienced breeder at birth or cannot really be assessed by a novice until about four to six months, but even then the color may change. The adult color should be golden red. It can be of almost any shade, varying from pale honey to dark chestnut. There are no preferences over shades as long as the color is bright and clear with no hints of dullness, which is of most importance. The coat should never be of a solid color. It should be shaded and without any defined color changes. The coat is usually at its darkest shade on the back of the dog, gradually getting lighter around the chest and belly. The undercoat must always be lighter in color than the topcoat, but is never allowed to be white. A small patch of white, no more than 1.5 centimeters wide, is allowable on the chest, and white tips on the feet are acceptable, but not desired.

Pigmentation

The nose, lips, and rims of eyes should always be black.

Height and weight

• Height at withers

Dogs, 16 to 19 inches (44-50 cm)

Bitches, 14½ to 17 inches (39-45 cm)

• Weight

Dogs, 27-33 lb (11-13 kg)

Bitches, 20-27 lb (8-9 kg)

Finnish Spitz Temperament

Finnish Spitz are considered to interact well with people, including children. In the home, the Finnish Spitz is a happy member, playing gently with children but may be rougher with other dogs. Some Finnish Spitz love other dogs while others are shy, passive or aggressive around other dogs. The Finnish Spitz are very loyal to their family, therefore they can be shy or moody around other dogs. Left alone the Finnish Spitz will figure out if another dog is acceptable.

The dog breeds is prone to barking at anything they perceive as being out of the ordinary. They can be trained to reduce the amount of barking, although the barking does make them good watchdogs.

Training

Because of their intelligence, Finnish Spitz are independent and strong-willed dogs and are best trained with a soft voice and touch. They will easily become bored with repetitive training. Finnish Spitz can be trained to be very obedient with a light touch and lots of positive reinforcement. Finnish Spitz can excel in obedience, agility and rally as a companion dog.

Finnish Spitz Health

The Finnish Spitz is typically a very healthy dog breeds, and health concerns are rare. Here is a short list of what is known to occur, however you should consult your breeder and others who breed Finnish Spitz to understand the prevalence to this breed:

• Hip dysplasia
• Patellar luxation
• Elbow dysplasia
• Epilepsy

Read more...

Finnish Lapphund

The Finnish Lapphund is a hardy, easy going, medium-size dog breeds of Spitz type. Traditionally it has been used for herding reindeer, but has also gained wide popularity as a companion animal. Although it is one of the most popular dog breeds in its native country, Finland, it is not very numerous outside of the Nordic countries. There are two lines of the breed: the original herding line and the nowadays more popular exhibition line.

Finnish Lapphund Appearance

Type

The Finnish Lapphund is a medium sized dog, strongly built dog. It is slightly longer than it is high at the withers. It has a profuse coat with pricked, highly mobile ears. It usually has long hair, and a bit of a long snout. Its color might be brown & black.

Size

The dog breeds standard is 46 to 52 centimetres (18 to 20 in) at the withers for a male, and a slightly smaller 41 to 47 centimetres (16 to 19 in) for a female. However, some variation is allowed, since the breed standard states that the type is more important than the size.

A typical male of 49cm height normally weighs 17 to 19 kilograms (37 to 42 lb), but the breed has a weight range of 15-24kg 15 to 24 kilograms (33 to 53 lb), depending on size of the dog.

Coat

The Finnish Lapphund has a profuse double coat, with a short, fluffy undercoat and a longer, coarse topcoat. The coat makes the dog waterproof as well as resistant to extreme cold. In Finland, only two dog breeds are legally allowed to be kenneled outdoors in winter: the Finnish Lapphund and the Lapponian herder.

The profuse hair around the head and neck gives the distinct impression of a mane. Although the coat is profuse, it requires only a modest amount of maintenance.

Colour

A wide variety of colors are found in the breed. Any color is allowed in the breed standard, although a single color should predominate. Almost any color can be found: white, black, red, brown, sable and wolf-sable are frequently seen. One of the most common color combination is black and tan: a predominantly black dog with tan legs and face.

Many Finnish Lapphunds have very distinctive facial markings. One of the unusual facial markings is "spectacles", where a ring of lighter colored hair around the eyes gives the impression that the dog is wearing spectacles. The spectacles of the Finnish Lapphund, while reminiscent of their cousins, the Keeshond, are larger and more pronounced.

Tail

Like other (spitz) types, the tail is carried curving over the back. The Finnish Lapphund has a tail covered with profuse and long hair. The tail may hang whilst the dog stands.

Differences in breed standard between countries

The Finnish Lapphund is a recognized dog breeds in Finland, Europe, Great Britain, Australia and the USA. The breed standards are mostly identical, with a few minor exceptions: in the English standard, the acceptance of tipped ears is omitted.

Finnish Lapphund Temperament

The Finnish Lapphund is a very intelligent and active breed. Finnish Lapphunds take well to training due to their intelligence. Some owners and fanciers claim that "Lappies" even have the ability to think through actions first. Although small in number worldwide, a noticeable number of Finnish Lapphunds have excelled in activities such as obedience trials, agility, herding trials, and pet therapy.

The dog breeds is friendly and alert, and makes a good watch dog, due to its tendency to bark at unfamiliar things. The breed was originally used to herd reindeer by droving, and barking helped it to be distinguished from wolves. Even when not herding, the Finnish Lapphund tends to bark with a purpose, and more rare cases of problem barking can normally be controlled by training.

The breed makes the ideal outdoor companion. It is active, cold-proof, and water-proof, and will gladly accompany people on walking or running trips. It is one of two breeds permitted to live outdoors in Finland.

Lappies are ideal choice for a family with small children. This very friendly dog breed and it normally avoids and flees from threathening situations. The breed is very curious, however, so some watching after them is necessary.

In Finland, at least two dogs have won national championships for obedience (Obedience Champion Hiidenparran Tielkka and Fin and Nordic Obedience Ch Kettuharjun Elle, both owned and trained by Rauno Nisula).

Finnish Lapphunds are also suitable for agility. In the UK, Elbereth Taika has been awarded an agility warrant, and has represented England at the 2005 Kennel Club Nations cup, where she achieved a second place.

The dog breed adapts well to family life, including being responsive to children. Finnish Lapphunds have a gentle nature with children, people with disabilities, and the elderly.

Finnish Lapphund Health

The Finnish Lapphund is a naturally healthy breed, and typically lives 12-14 years, although dogs of 16-17 years are not uncommon in Finland. Known medical issues include Generalised progressive retinal atrophy (GPRA), hereditary cataracts.

• GPRA is a progressive eye disease that can cause permanent blindness in dogs. In the Finnish Lapphund, this tends to be late onset, but can typically appear between the ages of 1 an 8 years. GPRA is a genetic illness, and is transmitted via an autosomal recessive gene. A reliable genetic test for the prcd-form of GRPA has been developed by OptiGen, and breeders are increasingly testing breeding animals before deciding on suitable mating pairs. The Finnish Lapphund club of Great Britain adopted an ethical policy in 2006 that matings will only be allowed if the progeny can not be affected by GPRA. In 2001, 2.5% dogs of Finnish dogs were affected by PRA.
• Some Lapphunds are affected by cataracts, with 3.4% of Finnish dogs affected. Cataracts can be caused by a number of factors, and the mode of inheritance is not yet well understood. Since the incidence in Finland is relatively high, the disease is considered to be hereditary. In the UK and USA the number of affected dogs is very small.
• The ethical standard in most countries require the stud dogs to be hip-scored, but the incidence of hip dysplasia is low.

Read more...

Finnish Hound, Hunting Dog

The Finnish Hound (Suomenajokoira, Finnish Bracke) is a dog breeds originally bred for hunting hare and fox. The Finnish Hound was a result of a breeding programme in the 1800's, which involved French, German and Swedish hounds. It has become Finland's most popular native working breed. Although it is very popular in Finland and Sweden, it is quite uncommon elsewhere.

Appearance

The coat of the Finnish Hound is short, dense and coarse to the touch. The coat pattern is tricolor with tan, a black saddle and small white markings on head, feet, chest and tail tip. Height is commonly 20-24 inches (52-61cm) and weight 45-55 pounds (20-25kg).

Temperament

The Finnish Hound is friendly, calm and never aggressive. It is energetic in the hunt and is a versatile tracker. It works independently and pursues the quarry with passionate barking.

Exercise

Finnish Hounds are energetic working dogs with enormous stamina. They need to be taken on long, brisk daily walks, along with plenty of opportunity to run freely in a safe area. Life expectancy is about 12 years.

Grooming

The smooth, short haired coat is easy to maintain. Brush with a firm bristle brush and dry shampoo occasionally. Bathe with mild soap only when necessary. Nails should be kept trimmed. These dogs are average shedders.

Read more...

Fila Brasileiro

The Fila Brasileiro (Brazilian Mastiff) is a large working dog breeds developed in Brazil. The Fila Brasileiro is believed to have been evolved from a number of breeds, predominantly the Mastiff, the Bulldog, and the Bloodhound. The Fila Brasileiro breed was bred and raised primarily on large plantations and cattle farms where they were originated. The first written standard of the breed was edited in 1946. The Paulistas (people from the State of São Paulo) were responsible for organization a planned breeding program, opening a stud book to register dogs. About the registries, CBKC (Brazilian Confederation Kennel Club) follows the FCI (Federation Cynologique Internationale) policy and accepts for registration only dogs with FCI pedigrees, orientating the breeders to make a hip dysplasia control and besides other health problems. The Fila Brasileiro is described as a Brazilian Mastiff or a Brazilian Molosser. In the U.S., there are two specialty Fila Clubs and both follow the CBKC/FCI Standard, which is the original and legitimate standard of the breed recognized all over the world. In the U.S., the OFA (Orthopedic Foundation for Animals) does a statistical registry of all Filas that were x-rayed to diagnose Hip Dysplasia.The Kennel Club of Britain will not allow Fila Brazilerio in public.

Fila Brasileiro Appearance

The Fila Brasileiro is a Molosser dog breeds with large bones and loose skin. The breed standard requires males to be between 65 and 75 cm (25.5 inches to 29.5 inches) heigh at the withers and weigh at least 50 kg (100 lbs). Females are slightly smaller and expected to be 60 to 70 cm (23.5 inches to 27.5 inches) height at the withers and weigh at least 40 kg (90 lbs).

Fila Brasileiro Coat

The coat of the Fila Brasileiro is smooth and short. Solid Black, Brown, Chestnut, Yellow, Reddish and Brindled colours are permitted, except Mouse-Grey, Black and Tan, Blue and Solid White. White markings, not exceeding 1/4 of the coat surface area, are permitted on the feet, chest, and the tip of the tail in the FCI standard.

Fila Brasileiro Temperament

The Fila Brasileiro is an excellent estate guardian. It does not hide its dislike towards strangers, consequently these dogs are not disqualified from the show ring for showing aggression to the judge. Such aversion is instinctive in Filas, so much so that the Brazilian breed standard advises judges not to touch the dog. However, the FCI standard allows for disqualification of excessively aggressive dogs, mainly when the owner doesn't have enough control to show them in public areas. The breed is renowned for their faithfulness to family and friends, but this is not a breed for everyone. The Fila needs a confident, experienced, savvy owner who is aware of the breed's innate tendencies. Filas are not well suited to busy household which entertain many guests, as they do not interact well with strangers. The Fila is a natural guardian dog breeds.

Filas bond strongly with their immediate families and show extreme loyalty and protectiveness towards them. They live to protect their loved ones, including children and other pets. Very few will accept strangers. Many Filas will never tolerate any stranger. Despite their aversion towards strangers they are excellent family dogs, devoted to the children in their family.

Read more...

Field Spaniel

The Field Spaniel is a medium-sized dog breeds. It is one of several spaniel breeds which can serve as gundogs. The Field Spaniel was the first spaniel developed specifically for conformation showing. The breed developed at the time when dog showing was first coming into vogue. With most spaniels being a base colour with white splashes, breeders wanted to create a solid black dog. They bred every black spaniel of that time including Cocker Spaniels and the Irish Water Spaniel. Upon introduction, the Field Spaniel was an instant hit. The Field Spaniel enjoyed a burst of success quite early and quickly became a popular breed. The intense focus of show breeders on this breed led to a rapid demise of the original Field Spaniel. The dogs were crossed with Sussex Spaniels and Basset Hounds to produce low legged, long backed versions leading to tremendous health problems. Just as quickly as the Field Spaniels star rose in the show world, it fell once myriad genetic problems emerged.

Field Spaniel Appearance

The Field Spaniel is 17–19 inches (43–48 cm) tall at the withers. Its long, silky coat comes in solid colors of liver and black. Tan points are allowed as is Roan, which is defined as a blend of both dark and white hairs without large patches of either color. The Field Spaniel is somewhat longer than taller to a ratio of 7:8. The UK Kennel Club Breed Standard states Field Spaniels should weigh 18–25 kg (40–55 lb).

While the dog breeds standard gives specific limits to the size of the dog, it seems that there is a vast difference between the European preference of size to the one in United States. While in US the idea is more or less "the smaller the better" in Europe, specially in the Northern Europe, the idea is "the bigger the better". However, the size difference between a male and female in Europe can be rather big. It remains the breeders and buyers consideration to decide which they like - or would they rather stay in the golden middle.

Field Spaniel Temperament

The Field Spaniel is a very social dog breeds that can adapt to almost any lifestyle. Whilst they will coexist peacefully with dogs and cats, as a hunting dog, their instincts make them difficult around rabbits, mice, rats and similar animals. They can sometimes be difficult around birds but should adjust if socialized as a puppy. Fields Spaniels are a family breed and will show affection to all household members. However, they are naturally cautious of strangers making them an excellent watchdog. The Field Spaniel will not handle abusive situations and should never be treated as a guard dog.

Field Spaniel Grooming

Being a spaniel, the dog breeds requires some grooming to keep a neat appearance and to prevent ear infections. Normally the head, face, ears, throat and feet are trimmed. Ear trimming is important in all spaniel breeds as the long ears prevent air circulation in the ear canal causing excessive moisture and infection. Fields Spaniels have webbed feet and excessive hair can also lead to excessive moisture and infection. Fields that are shown have more extensive grooming to present their conformation in the ring. In addition Field Spaniels for show may also have their feathering on the legs and undercarriage trimmed. Nails should never be allowed too grow long. An active Field Spaniel will naturally wear down nails however carpeting can sometimes prevent this.

Read more...