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Whippets, which were originally bred from Greyhounds that were deemed too small to hunt large game, are known for their lightning fast speeds. First used for hunting small game and later for racing, Whippets have a colorful history. Is a Whippet right for you? Temperament Whippets are quiet and gentle dogs that are not prone to barking. Despite their athletic nature they are perfectly content as couch potatoes and lap dogs. The American Kennel Club describes the Whippet as a dignified breed, and for these reasons it makes an excellent apartment dog. Whippets can be touch-sensitive, meaning they may startle if touched unexpectedly. Size, Coloring, and Upkeep As a medium-sized dog the Whippet stands 17.5 – 22.5 inches tall at the shoulder and should weigh 20 – 42 lbs, depending on height and sex. The Whippet’s color is deemed “immaterial,” meaning it is unimportant for breed recognition. Indeed, there are...
Continue reading » Dog BreedsNo Comment Chow Chows (often shortened to simply “Chow”) are hardy dogs that originate from cold and snowy northern China. The breed’s name in Mandarin means “puffy-lion dog,” which refers to the lion-like mane of thick fur that encircles the dog’s head. Chows are one of few ancient dog breeds in existence, with ancestors dating back 2,000 – 3,000 years; but is a Chow Chow right for you? Temperament Chow Chows are friendly and caring towards their owners, but can also be fiercely protective. For this reason, many apartment complexes ban Chows, as do certain renter’s or home owner’s insurance policies. Like most Spitz breeds, the Chow Chow can be considered cat-like, sometimes preferring to keep to itself or only a handful of trusted family members. Chow Chows can also be extremely stubborn. Size, Coloring, and Upkeep A full grown Chow Chow ranges in weight from 55 – 70 lbs for males,...
Continue reading » Dog BreedsNo Comment In recent years the Pembroke Welsh Corgi has surged in popularity, thanks to the breed’s adorable antics and interesting looks. Popular Instagram accounts, such as Ralph the Corgi, have also encouraged the breed’s recent success. Is a Pembroke Welsh Corgi right for you? Temperament Pembroke Welsh Corgis (which are distinct from the Cardigan Welsh Corgi) are highly intelligent dogs that are renowned for their working ability. They are both affectionate and alert, and make wonderful family companions and watch dogs. They can be bold, but are kind in their ways. Size, Coloring, and Upkeep Pembroke Welsh Corgis are recognized for their long bodies, erect, triangle-shaped ears, and absence of a tail. They are small and sturdy dogs, weighing 22 – 31 lbs, depending on sex. Their coats are short and stiff with the long-coat “fluffy” variation considered a fault. The American Kennel Club recognizes four colors of Pembroke Welsh Corgi: ...
Continue reading » Dog BreedsNo Comment One of America’s oldest and most popular breeds, the Boxer is a dignified dog known for its spunky personality and beautiful brindle coat. Currently ranked 10th most popular dog breed in the United States, there is no shortage of Boxer puppies. But, is a Boxer right for you? Temperament Boxers are intelligent, fun-loving, and active dogs. They are patient with children, yet also spirited and protective, and make great family pets for these reasons. Boxers can be stubborn animals that are prone to boredom, so care must be taken to ensure these pets are properly exercised and mentally stimulated. Size, Coloring, and Upkeep A medium-to-large breed, Boxers weigh 55 – 71 lbs and stand 21 – 25’’ tall at the shoulder. Two colorings are accepted by the American Kennel Club: fawn and brindle. White Boxers are also fairly common, representing approximately 25% of all litters. However, white Boxers are commonly...
Continue reading » Dog BreedsNo Comment Pomeranians are the 22nd most popular dog breed in the United Stated, according to the American Kennel Club. What makes this tiny fluff ball of a dog so popular? More importantly, is a Pomeranian right for you? Temperament As a member of the Spitz family, Pomeranians are lively, spirited, and bold. Do not let their small package fool you, as they often forget their own size in an attempt to intimidate larger dogs. Pomeranians are also highly alert, and can develop a barking habit if this behavior is reinforced. Size, Coloring, Upkeep Members of the Toy Group, Pomeranians are small dogs that weigh 4 – 8 lbs. They have thick double coats thanks to their northern European heritage, and shed frequently. In order to properly maintain the Pomeranian’s coat, daily brushing is recommended as well as professional grooming every 6 – 8 weeks. There are 18 recognized colorings for this...
Continue reading » Dog BreedsNo Comment Little dogs are all the rage this year, especially for apartment-dwellers or those who are not athletically inclined. A toy breed that once was nearly extinct, the popularity of Chinese Crested dogs has continued to grow. Is a Chinese Crested right for you? Temperament Chinese Crested dogs are affectionate, loving animals due to their history as a companion breed. They are loyal and alert, yet also spirited and playful. Due to their tendency to form strong bonds with their owners, Chinese Crested dogs can be prone to separation anxiety and may struggle with time alone. Size, Coloring, and Upkeep There are two types of Chinese Crested dogs: Powderpuff and Hairless. The Powderpuff variety has long, soft hair that can sometimes be high maintenance. The Hairless version can either be completely hairless from head to tail, or be “hairy hairless” with hair on face, tail, and legs. Hairless dogs require skincare...
Continue reading » Dog BreedsNo Comment A common breed for hunters, outdoor enthusiasts, and families alike is the German Shorthaired Pointer (GSP). This breed currently ranks as 11th most popular per AKC registrations; but, is a German Shorthaired Pointer right for you? Temperament German Shorthaired Pointers are energetic, obedient, and friendly dogs. They are smart and willing to learn. Due to their original use as an all-purpose gun dog intended for both water fowl and larger game, their energy levels are high. When not properly exercised (i.e. long hikes or vigorous runs), GSPs can become hyperactive and destructive. Size, Coloring, and Upkeep One reason GSPs are popular is because of their unique coloring. This breed is commonly “ticked,” meaning it has a white mottled appearance against liver or black fur. Their short hair means heat management is poor, so a jacket is recommended in cold weather. Eyes should be dark brown, although lighter “bird of prey”...
Continue reading » Dog BreedsNo Comment A growing subset of dog breeds is the so-called “designer dog,” which comprises a mix of two popular breeds. A recent trend, for instance, is to mix everything with a poodle, to produce some sort of “doodle” dog. The pros, cons, and a few common designer breeds are discussed. Benefits of Owning a Designer Dog Designer dogs are “in” right now, which means there is more of a supply than ever before. Options for choosing your dog are diverse, and designer breeds are certainly adorable. In some instances, a designer dog may cause fewer health problems for someone who experiences allergies. Additionally, diversity of the dog’s gene pool likely means a healthier animal, as the risk of genetic disease is significantly lower in mixed breeds. Disadvantages of Designer Dogs The disadvantages of designer dogs are equally numerous. There is less controllability in the genetics of a mixed breed dog. For...
Continue reading » Dog BreedsNo Comment Siberian Huskies are currently experiencing a growth in popularity in the United States. In 2002 this majestic breed was the 21st most popular dog, while in 2016 the American Kennel Club ranked Siberian Huskies as the 12th most popular breed, per registrations. But, is a Siberian Husky right for you? Temperament Siberian Huskies are energetic, mischievous, and outgoing. These social butterflies are friendly and loyal, and do well in human or canine packs. They are considered to be among the closest ancestors to wolves, and indeed have many wolf-like tendencies when it comes to their social interactions. Huskies can easily become bored, and are known for their destructive and escape-artist behaviors when not properly exercised. Size, Coloring, and Upkeep With thick and heavy coats, Siberian Huskies often look larger than they truly are. A male Husky tops out at 60 lbs, while females reach 50 lbs. Their thick fur represents...
Continue reading » Dog BreedsNo Comment Weimaraners are noble dogs, best known for their history as large game hunters among German nobility. Their unique coloring and soulful eyes makes them a popular choice among dog owners; but, is a Weimaraner right for you? Temperament As a dog from the sporting group, the Weimaraner is stereotypically obedient and friendly, while also bold and fearless. This breed is highly energetic, thanks to its background in hunting large game such as boar and bear. Like most dogs bred to work closely with humans, the Weimaraner is also very affectionate, almost to a fault. Weimaraners are highly prone to developing separation anxiety, and often struggle when left alone. Size, Coloring, and Upkeep Weimaraners are large dogs, typically topping out at 82 lbs for males and 71 lbs for females. They are known for their uniquely colored coat, which can be blue, grey, or silver grey. Their eyes are light in...
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