I'll be posting on this thread all information you need to know about different dog breeds. Over 200 breeds of dog and their attributes for your delight and awareness of the best breed for you and your family.
Stay tuned in and enjoy while you learn.

Afghan Hound

Breed Description

Overview:
Afghan hounds came from the mountains and plains of Afghanistan, developing from two distinct types which are now almost entirely intermingled. They got into Britain in 1894 and to North America in 1926.

Country of Origin:
Afghanistan/England

Size type:
Large dog breed

Character:
Afghan hounds are independent, proud, and noble dogs. They tend to be very calm indoors but very active outdoors. This intelligent breed is not very compliant with the owner, and is very brave, vigilant, not noisy, and cautious with strangers. They love to chase anything that moves quickly. The males can be rather dominant.

Breed Group:
Hounds (AKC), Sight hounds (FCI).

Height:
The shoulder-height of the Dogs is 68 - 74cm (27-29inches), Bitches 63 - 69cm (25 - 28inches).

Weight:
Dogs about 27.5kg (60lb), bitches 22.6kg (50lb) according to (AKC).

Coat:
Afghan hounds has very long, fine coat. The hair on the face is short. They can come in any colour but the most common colours are red through to shades of beige, often with a darker mask.

Care:
Due to the long coat the Afghan hound requires full hour of careful grooming each time, twice a week. The best method is to comb each handful of hair from the skin outwards so that no tangles can be overlooked, but take care not to break the hairs. Clean the ear often also.

Training:
The independent nature of Afghan hounds makes them difficult to train and they will never obey you totally. These dogs are not recommended for inexperienced owners. The trainer is advised to use firm yet soft hand with them in order to achieve anything during the course of training.

Characteristics:
The movement of the Afghan hound should be smooth and springy with considerable style. The dog gives impression of strength and dignity combined with speed and power. The head is long and lean, the body strong and deep, with very muscled forequarters and powerful hind-quarters.

Australian Shepherd

Breed Description

Overview:
Australian Shepherd also known as Aussie, although virtually unknown in Australia was developed exclusively in the USA, and used in farms and ranches. It has a close resemblance to the Border Collie and English Shepherd.

Country of Origin:
United States

Size type:
Medium size dog breeds

Character:
This dog has strong herding and guarding instinct. Australian Shepherd is intelligent, eager to learn, level-headed, vigilant, alert, active, tough, very loyal, has ample stamina, and bonds closely with the family.

Breed Group:
Working dog breed

Height:
The shoulder-height is anywhere between 43 - 66 cm (17 - 26 in).

Weight:
They weigh anywhere between 14 - 29 kg (30 - 65 lb).

Temperament:
Well socialized Australian Shepherd gets on well with children, other dogs and pets, but can be very shy with strangers. This dog enjoys working, whether it is learning and practicing tricks, competing in dog agility, or engaging in any other physically and mentally involving activity. Due to their high energetic nature they require a great deal of exercise and attention.

Coat:
The coat consists of medium to long hair coat that has either pronounced or loose waves and a dense undercoat. Their colours are black, red, marbled black, white and gray, marbled red etc. with some white.

Care:
Relatively little grooming is needed for its coat. During moulting the under layer of the coat is shed, requiring a good combing to remove loose hairs.

Training:
Australian shepherd learns so quickly and eagerly so training is easy. This breed requires a lot of exercise and yet needs to be occupied. It is sensible to involve it in agility skills training, fly-ball, or obedience competitions.

Australian Terrier

Breed Description

Overview:
Developed in Australia the Australian terrier is a small breed of dog of the terrier dog type. The Australian terrier is a vigilant, alert, lively dog. It was undoubtedly bred from old British breeds but hard to say which ones.

Country of Origin:
Australia

Size type:
Small dog breed

Character:
The Australian terrier is a vigilant and alert, brave, lively, self-confident, and is very adaptable, intelligent, playful, independent, and a bit stubborn. They are excellent vermin destroyers and like to bark.

Breed Group:
Terrier Dog Breed

Height:
The shoulder-height is about 25cm(9.5in).

Weight:
They weigh between 5.5 - 6.5kg (12 - 14.5 lb).

Temperament:
The Australian Shepherd is a spirited and alert breed with natural aggressiveness. They are very active and playful. The adult males can be very territorial especially against other male dogs but in general Australian terrier is friendly with people and loves to interact with people.

Coat:
The coat is straight, hard, and medium length. The breed has a blue back and deep shades of tan on legs and muzzle. The locks of hair over the eyes may be blue or silver, but sandy or red is also acceptable.

Care:
The Australian Terrier's coat requires plucking about every three months. Grooming with brush and comb between these times about once a week and ensure that no hair is growing inside the ear passages.

Training:
The training of the Australian terrier needs to be strict because this self-confident freebooter will sometimes only follow its own ideas. They learn quite quickly.

Characteristics:
The Australian Terrier is a compact and active dog with a long head, flat skull, soft topknot, and powerful jaw. The eyes are small, keen, and dark in colour, and the ears are small, set high on the skull, pricked or dropped towards the front and fringed with long hair.

Shih Tzu

Breed Description

Overview:
The Shih Tzu is a very hairy, lively and independent breed which craves fun rather than pampering. The Shih Tzu originated from Tibet.

Country of Origin:
Tibet

Size type:
Small Dog breeds

Character:
The Shih Tzu is a very active, lively, and alert dog with a distinctly arrogant carriage. Although classified as Toy in many parts of the world, this is an independently minded, extrovert breed that craves fun and activity rather than pampering.
They rarely bark.

Breed Group:
Toy dog breeds

Height:
The shoulder height is about 25cm (9.5in).

Weight:
5 - 6kg (11 - 13.5lb)

Temperament:
The Shih Tzu are intelligent, lovable, affectionate, cheerful, and sociable dogs that are also independent and not friends to all.

Coat:
The long-haired coat is accepted in any colour, including beige, black, and red, often with white.

Care:
The Shih Tzu requires a lot of grooming. Comb the coat thoroughly every day to prevent tangles. A hair band is essential to keep the hair out of the eyes. Because the eyes are a sensitive spot for these dogs, you need to make sure they are kept clean. Use the special eye drops prepared for this purpose. Clean their ears regularly too. If you do not have the time to keep the coat in good condition, you will need to take the dog about every two months to be clipped, which will spare the dog a lot of misery.

Training:
It is possible to achieve a reasonable level of training if you approach this somewhat obstinate breed with plenty of patience and remain consistent at all times.

Characteristics:
The most attractive features of the Shih Tzu are the long, luxuriant coat and the hair growing upwards from the muzzle, giving the characteristic (chrysanthemum) look. The head is broad and round, wide between the eyes with a short, square muzzle. The eyes are large, dark, and round, but not prominent. The body is sturdy and muscular. The tail is heavily plumed and carried well over the back.

Lhasa Apso

Breed Description

Overview:
The Lhasa Apso is a small hairy dog which originated from Tibet and are alert and reserved with strangers. They are good watchdogs, but has tendency to bark without control. Their coat needs daily care and early handling is advisable. They need early socialization to be tolerant to other dogs.

Country of Origin:
Tibet

Size type:
Small dog breed

Character:
The Lhasa Apso is an alert and vocal dog. They are calm, loyal, lovable dogs, which are, cheerful and independent, and distrustful of strangers. The Lhasa Apso likes company but it will not cling to you. This breed is an excellent dog for a family and single people.

Breed Group:
Non-sporting dog breed

Height:
The shoulder-height is about 23cm (9.5in).

Weight:
6 - 7kg (13 - 15lb).

Temperament:
The Lhasa Apso gets on well with other dogs and other household pets, and children. They are rather cautious towards strangers. It should be properly socialized at an early age, but then makes a playful and affectionate pet.

Coat:
The very long top coat has no curls and is quite hard. The undercoat is medium-length and somewhat softer. Almost any colour is acceptable, including blue, black, all manner of shades of beige, reg, grey, white, brown, and multi-colored.

Care:
The Lhasa Apso requires a great deal of thorough grooming with brush and comb every week, paying attention not only to the topcoat but undercoat especially to prevent and remove tangles. Pulling the hairs too hard is not recommended during combing to prevent breakages. Check the eyes regularly for dirt and for any irritant hair, clip excess hair between the pads of the feet, and keep the ear passages clean.

Training:
The Lhasa Apso are intelligent enough to understand your rules so the use of harsh words can touch them deep in the soul and cause them to feel insulted and be very disconcerted and withdrawn. Do not expect any tricks from it and lead its character in the right direction by rewarding it when it does well.

Characteristics:
The Lhasa Apso is a solid little dog with a cheerful and assertive character, yet it can be wary of strangers. It carries an abundance of coat, with hair completely covering its face and body. The ears are pendent and heavily feathered. The tail is also well feathered, high-set, and carried over the back.

Please can I get info on a boerbull I just got a puppy

CanineInvestor:
I'll be posting on this thread all information you need to know about different dog breeds. Over 200 breeds of dog and their attributes for your delight and awareness of the best breed for you and your family.
Stay tuned in and enjoy while you learn.

BoerBoel

Breed Description

Overview:
The Boerboel is a mastiff-looking heavily built dog originating from South Africa where the dog is viewed as an excellent companion and guard dog. The believe is that the breed was created from interbreeding native African canine species with breeds brought into South Africa from Dutch, French, and British settlers.

Country of Origin:
South Africa

Size type:
Large dog breed

Character:
The Boerboel is an intelligent, trainable and manageable breed with strong protective instinct, and loyal to members of the family. The dog is also steadfast and calm, with a balanced and confident disposition. They are fearless and shows courage when threatened.

Breed Group:
Guard dog breed

Height:
The shoulder-height is Male 64 - 70 cm (25 - 28 in), Female 59 - 65 cm (23 - 26 in).

Weight:
Male: 70 - 90 kg, Female: 70 - 90 kg.

Temperament:
The Boerboel is manageable, reliable, obedient and intelligent with strong protective instincts. It is self-confident and fearless. Uncontrollably aggressive and fearful Boerboels are unacceptable. They are quite lovable when energetic and will stop at nothing to protect their loved ones to the death. Early training is recommended for this breed at puppy stage.

Coat:
The Boerboel has an outer coat that is normally coarse and straight, and an undercoat that is soft and dense. They have a short, dense, smooth, soft, and shiny coat. Their coat colour ranges from various shades of red, brown, or fawn with black mask around the mouth that sometimes extends to their eyes and ears.

Care:
The Boerboel required little grooming being an average shedder. Occasional brushing and a monthly bath and nail trim is all that this breed needs.

Training:
The Boerboels requires a significant commitment in time and energy from their owners due to their need for training and proper socialization in other to achieve good co-existence with the dog. Positive reinforcement training techniques is recommended for the training of this breed. Forceful training of this dog can result to a detrimental psychological health and could work against the trainer or owner as the dog might misbehave later in future.

Characteristics:
The Boerboel is a large dog. It has prominent and well-developed musculature over the entire body with buoyant movement, an impressive and imposing figure of strength.

more pls

Lowchen

Breed Description

Overview:
Little lion dog as it is also called the Lowchen breed originated from France. From the middle ages, dogs very like the modern breed of Lowchen appeared in paintings.

Country of Origin:
France

Size type:
Small Breed dog

Character:
The Lowchen is a cheerful, playful, and companionable dog that is intelligent, eager to learn, gentle-natured, and sensitive.

Breed Group:
Non-sporting Dog Breed

Height:
The shoulder height is 20 - 35cm (7.5 - 13.5in)

Weight:
Dog 4.5 - 8.2 kg
Bitches 3.6 - 7.3 kg

Temperament:
A small, intelligent dog with an affectionate and lively disposition, combining all the good qualities of a companion dog. The company of children and other household animals causes no problems of any kind.

Coat:
The coat is long and wavy but should not curl. Lowchen do not have undercoats. Any colour is acceptable.

Care:
There is a need to brush and comb the coat regularly to prevent tangles forming. This dog is usually clipped out in the breed-style regardless of whether they are to be shown. The hindquarters, the section of the tail closest to the body, and part of the front legs are close-clipped. The coat does not shed hairs so any dead hairs are removed by brushing.

Training:
They learn quickly and present little difficulty in their training.

Characteristics:
The head is short and broad, the skull flat between the ears, and the body well proportioned. Lowchen are traditionally clipped in the lion clip, leaving a profuse mane over the head and shoulders, and feathering on the feet.

Blood Hound

Breed Description

Overview:
Bloodhounds are very gentle giants. Their ability to follow a scent is legendary and they need very long walks on a lead or in a safe area. Affectionate and good natured, they can be stubborn and independent when it suits them. They are very powerful dogs larger than most hound breeds.

Country of Origin:
Belgium

Size type:
Giant dog breeds

Character:
Bloodhounds are gentle-natured and affectionate, boisterous when young, friendly, tenacious, independent, do not keep barking but have a very loud bark, and they possess a very good scenting nose. Once their interest is aroused in something, it is difficult to get their attention for anything else.

Breed Group:
Hound dog breeds

Height:
The shoulder height is 63 - 69 cm (24.5 - 27.5in) for males, 58 - 63cm (22.5 - 24.5in) for females.

Weight:
Males weigh average of 41kg (90lb), Females 36kg (80lb).

Temperament:
The Bloodhounds usually gets on well with children. Care must be taken to make sure the children do not pester the dog because the dog is so good-natured that they will lie there and meekly let children clamber all over it. Both wanted and unwanted visitors will be greeted as if they are part of the family. They are very friendly to other dogs and household pets.

Coat:
They have a short smooth-haired coat. The most usual colours are black and red, liver and red, and plain red. A small amount of white on the chest, feet, and tip of the tail is permissible.

Care:
Little grooming is required for Bloodhounds. Brush their hair from time to time to remove loose and dead hairs. Give attention to the ears by checking for dirt to prevent infection. Keep the ears clean. Due to the drooping eye-lids of this dog its necessary to administer eye drops containing vitamin A.

Training:
Plenty of patience should be the virtue of a new owner of Bloodhound especially during training. Consistency will pay off in the long run. They know full well how successfully they can get around you with pathetic look and make use of it to get their own way.

Characteristics:
The Bloodhound is a powerful animal, larger than most hound breeds. Its characterized by a thin, loose skin which hangs in deep folds, especially about the head, and imparts that lugubrious expression fro which it is so often caricatured. In temperament the Bloodhound should not be quarrelsome with other dogs, as its nature tends to be reserved.

Rottweiler

Breed Description

Overview:
The Rottweiler is another European Mastiff breed originating from Germany. The town Rottweiler​ in what is now Germany is where the name was derived from. This town was founded by the Romans and was important cattle trading center in the 12th century. The breed's ability as a guard dog is still recognized; its courage, strength, and forbidding aspect make it a marvelous guard for those who have the ability to control it.

Country of Origin:
Germany

Size type:
Large dog breed

Character:
The Rottweiler is intelligent, obedient, unconditionally loyal to its handler and family, and is vigilant, protective, brave, strong, imposing, and can be jealous if attention is given elsewhere than to him. The Rottweiler will defend its family and property to the end.

Breed Group:
Working dog breed (AKC)

Height:
The shoulder-height is 61 - 68cm (24 - 26.5 in) for dogs and 56 - 63cm (22 - 24.5 in) for bitches.

Weight:
Dogs : 43 - 59 kg bitches : 38 - 52 kg

Temperament:
The Rottweiler according to American Kennel Club is a calm, confident and courageous dog with a self-assured aloofness that does not lend itself to immediate and indiscriminate friendships. A Rottweiler is self-confident and responds quietly and with a wait-and-see attitude to influences in its environment. It has an inherent desire to protect home and family, and is an intelligent dog of extreme hardness and adaptability with a strong willingness to work, making them especially suited as a companion, guardian and general all-purpose dog.

Coat:
The Rottweiler has a short, thick and coarse outer-layer of the hair and a thick under-layer. The coat is always black with brown markings.

Care:
Grooming may be required while the dog is moulting otherwise grooming can be done once in a while to remove dead hairs. Keep the claws short and the ear passages clean.

Training:
The Rottweiler requires a trainer who is rather forceful especially to the males than the females which are slightly gentle in nature. A varied training program gives the best results. This breed can be rather dominant in nature and therefore require an equable calm handler who is confident and always fair.

Characteristics:
The Rottweiler is a well built and muscular breed. The skull is of medium length, broad between the ears. The chest is roomy, broad and deep (approximately 50% of the shoulder height) with a well-developed fore-chest and well sprung ribs. The breed is always black with brown markings.

Affenpinscher

Breed Description

Overview:
Affenpinscher is a breed that got his name from the looks of a monkey which they possess. Originating from Germany where the word "Affe" refers to monkey from which the dog was named. The breed is believed to have its ancestral origin from Brussels Griffon and Miniature Schnauzer.

Country of Origin:
Germany

Size type:
Small dog breed

Character:
The Affenpinscher is lively, cheerful, friendly, alert, undaunting, dependent, and sharp-witted.

Breed Group:
Toy dog breed

Height:
The shoulder-height is 23 - 30cm (9.5 - 11.5in).

Weight:
3 - 6kg (6.5 - 9lb).

Temperament:
The Affenpinscher is good with children, and can also be fine with dogs of their own kind and other house hold pets. They can refuse strange visitor entry into the house. They are equally active, adventurous, curious, and stubborn, but very fun-loving and playful. This loyal little dog enjoys being with its family.

Coat:
They have a coarse hair which grows in whirls. The coat is mostly black, but other colours as brown and ones with grey markings are also acceptable. The coat is thicker over the head and shoulders forming a mane, with shorter coat over the back and hindquarters.

Care:
Clipping the hair of this breed is not recommended but careful plucking of same does a good job to maintain the integrity of the coat as clipping tends to ruin it for many years. The Hairs that grows around the eyes should be dealt with promptly to reduce irritation to the eyes. Grooming with comb will help remove dead hair and maintain the natural curls.

Training:
During training it is important to be consistent but make sure there is ample variety in the drills not to bore the creature. Affenpinschers learn commands fairly quickly.

Characteristics:
Affenpinschers have a distinct appearance that may be associated with the terriers. The most acceptable colour of this breed is black but AKC also allows grey, silver, red, black and tan.

German Shepherd

Breed Description

Overview:
The German shepherd dog formally known as Alsatian or Alsatian wolf dog in Britain is a large-sized breed working dog originating from Germany. This breed was mainly used for herding sheep in Germany which is the main purpose for which they were developed. Due to their strength, intelligence, obedience and trainability German shepherd dogs are used in various working purposes in the police, military, search-and-rescue etc.

Country of Origin:
Germany

Size type:
Large dog breed

Character:
German shepherd dogs are very intelligent, eager, obedient, sociable, and friendly. They are also very temperamental, attentive, alert, protective, brave, self-assured, independent, and unconditionally loyal towards its handler and family.

Breed Group:
Herding dog breed (AKC).

Height:
The shoulder-height is 60 - 65cm (23.5 - 25.5 in) for dogs and 55 - 60cm (21.5 - 23.5in) for bitches.

Weight:
34 - 43kg (75 - 95lb).

Temperament:
German shepherds gets on well with their own kind, other animals, and children provided they have been correctly socialized, but unwanted visitors are halted. The breed is marked by a willingness to learn and an eagerness to have a purpose. They are curious which makes them excellent guard dogs and suitable for search missions. German Shepherds are highly intelligent and obedient. They are territorial by nature which means that they have no tendency to run away.

Coat:
The German shepherd comes with double coat. The outer coat, which sheds all year round, is close and dense with a thick undercoat. They have three kinds of coat: coarse straight-haired, long coarse straight-haired, and wavy long-haired. The last of these three is less desirable. The long hair coat was regarded as a genetic fault by American Kennel Club and also considered to manifest from recessive genes. The coat can be black, iron-grey, ash-colored, or can be one of these colours with regular brown or yellow-to-light-brown markings. An upper layer of black is commonest.

Care:
The hair coat of German shepherds require little grooming, but during moulting additional attention is required to comb the dead and loose hair off.

Training:
This breed is eager to learn from you, intelligent and quick to get the hang of things. Work principally with your voice. German shepherds have a tendency to be completely loyal to their handlers, obeying and willing to work for and impress them. They are believed to be easy to train owning to the fact that they understand and obey each command after five repetitions. They also demand constant contact with their owners making it advisable that they be owned by persons with enough time to devote to them.

Characteristics:
They have a domed forehead, a long square-cut muzzle and a black nose. The jaws are strong, with a scissor-like bite. The eyes are medium-sized and brown with a lively, intelligent and self-assured look. The ears are large and stand erect, open at the front and parallel, but they often are pulled back during movement. They have a long neck, which is raised when excited and lowered when moving at a fast pace. The tail is bushy and reaches to the hock.

Golden Retriever

Breed Description

Overview:
A popular family dog for good reason, Golden Retrievers are good natured, playful and kind. These dogs are people enthusiasts and are just as happy greeting people at the door with a shoe in their mouths as they are retrieving game in the field. It has been suggested that the Golden retriever has its origins in a troupe of Russian circus dogs which Lord Tweedsmouth saw and took into Britain. Golden retrievers is a relaxed, kind, friendly, confident, responsive and sensible breed of dog. The coat which is yellowish brown is where the name "Golden" retriever came from.

Country of Origin:
Great Britain

Size type:
Large dog breed

Character:
Golden Retriever is a lovable, intelligent, sociable, self-confident, sensitive dog with a good memory that has great adaptability and is not always barking.

Breed Group:
Working dog breed

Height:
The shoulder-height is 56 - 61 (22 - 24in) for males, and 51 - 56 (20 - 22in) for females.

Weight:
Males 27 - 36kg (60 - 80lb), females 25 - 32kg (55 - 70lb).

Temperament:
Dogs of this breed get on fine with other dogs, animals, and children, although the dog might need protection from the children. Most of these dogs become real friends with humans although some can be very vigilant and cautious with unknown visitors.

Coat:
The colour is any shade of gold or cream, but neither red nor mahogany and the texture of the hair is flat or wavy with good feathering and a dense, water-resistant undercoat.

Care:
The coat of this dog should be brushed as little as possible to avoid changing its curly nature from the breed standard. Grooming cannot be avoided though during the moulting period.

Training:
Training a Golden Retriever is not much of a hard work because it's intelligent enough to grasp what is expected of it. Structure the training to make the dog view it as a challenge and vary the exercises because monotony will cause the dog to lose interest. Consistency is also very important.

Characteristics:
The Golden Retriever is symmetrical, active, and powerful, a good level mover, sound and well put together. The head is broad, the expression kindly, the eyes dark, the muzzle squarish and jaw strong. The dog is a strong, muscular creature especially at the shoulder and hindquarters.

German Shorthaired Pointer

Breed Description

Overview:
The German pointer (shorthaired) probably has its origins in the dogs introduced by home-coming crusaders, intermingled with indigenous bird dogs and the Spanish Pointer, with style and elegance being largely dependent on the blood of The English Pointer. Nowadays the breed has a deservedly high reputation as a general-purpose gundog.

Country of Origin:
Germany

Size type:
Medium sized dog breeds

Character:
These dogs are tractable, intelligent and eager to learn, loyal, active, spontaneous, brave, vigilant, playful, friendly, and have a good scenting nose.

Breed Group:
Sporting Dog breeds

Height:
The shoulder height is 58- 64cm (21.5 - 24.5in) for dogs and 53 - 59cm (21 - 23in) for bitches.

Weight:
Dogs: 25 - 31.8kg (55 - 70lb).
Bitches: 20.4 - 27.2kg (45 - 60lb)

Temperament:
German Pointers generally get on well with their own kind, other animals, and with children. Although they tend to be friendly with everyone, they can be vigilant.

Coat:
The short-haired coat is recognized in brown (with and without white markings), dark brown roan, light brown roan, and white with brown markings on the head or with brown patches or spots. There are also black coats with the same combination of markings as the brown varieties. Yellow markings are also permissible.

Care:
The German Short-haired Pointer does not need much attention to its coat. An occasional brushing will keep the hair in good condition. Check from time to time to ensure that the ears are clean.

Training:
The Short-haired German Pointers are not difficult to train because they are intelligent and eager to learn provided their handler is consistent in approach. They like to be busy and they enjoy working for their handler. They are outstanding all-round field sports dogs.

Characteristics:
The head is clean cut, the shoulder sloping, the chest deep, and the back short and powerful. Strong quarters provide propulsion for well-coordinated, economical movement.

Pug

Breed Description

Overview:
The Pug is a toy breed which is believed to have originated from ancient China. This breed has all the characteristics of some mastiff breeds from its looks and conformation. It was associated with the Dutch House of orange after it saved the life of William, Prince of Orange, by warning of Spanish intruders.

Country of Origin:
China / England

Size type:
Small size dog breeds

Character:
Pugs are calm indoors, sociable, sensitive, have a very funny looks, very affectionate and intelligent, and they are physically demanding of themselves. They snore a lot especially while sleeping deeply.

Breed Group:
Toy dog breed (AKC).

Height:
The shoulder-height is about 35cm (13.5in).

Weight:
They weight about 7kg (15.5lb).

Temperament:
Pugs get on well with other dogs and pets, and they behave perfectly with both children and visitors. They can be very jealous if their owner's attention goes elsewhere thus demands lots of attention.

Coat:
They come mostly in short-hair coat which can be silver, black, apricot or fawn. Paler colours should have clearly defined black mask and ears.

Care:
Pugs require less grooming but the facial creases should be attended to now and then to avoid being infected. Special lotions made for this purpose are recommended. Loose hair can be easily removed with a rubber brush. Eye drops may also be necessary a times.

Training:
Pugs are very sensitive breed and also quite obedient therefore require gentle-handed approach during training. They pick voice intonation well making harsh punishment unnecessary.

Characteristics:
The modern day pug breed is a square cobby body, a compact form, a deep chest, and well-developed muscle. The head is round, massive, and deeply wrinkled, the muzzle short and blunt, the eyes very large, bold, and dark. The forelegs are strong and straight, the hindquarters muscular. The tail is curled tightly.

Groenendael


Breed Description

Overview:
The Groenendael is also called Belgian shepherd dog. The principal breeder of this type was Monsieur Rose of Groenendael, whose stock was all descended from a single pair, Petite and Picard D'Uccle along with breeds like the Lakenios, the Malinois and the Tervueren.

Country of Origin:
Belgium

Size type:
Large Dog Breeds

Character:
The Groenendael s are very energetic, alert, intelligent, eager to work, very lively, and attentive. They like to be close to their owner in the home.

Breed Group:
Herding Dog breeds

Height:
The shoulder height is about 64cm (24.5in) for dogs and 58cm (22.5in) for bitches.

Weight:
Dog 25 - 30 kg
Bitches 20 - 25 kg

Temperament:
They get on well with their own kind, cats, and other pets provided they have met them when young. So long as children treat them well, they present no problem with children.

Coat:
The Groenendael has a long-hair coat with an undercoat. Groenendael Belgian Shepherds are black with perhaps some white on the chest and feet.

Care:
It is not advisable to brush or comb these dogs too much since this can damage the under layer of the coat. During moulting use a coarse-toothed comb to make the coat more respectable in appearance.

Training:
They learn quickly and react well to the voice of the handler. Hitting and screaming is both unnecessary and likely to have an adverse effect. A gentle but determined hand works wonders with them. They are suitable for various types of sports, particularly agility competitions, and fly-ball.

Characteristics:
It is a graceful looking dog with black long-hair coat and undercoat. The come with long snout with well-balanced head showing a mane on the neck towards the shoulders. It has close resemblance to other shepherd dogs like the German shepherd.

Greyhound

Breed Description

Overview:
The Greyhound is very popular as racing dog. Originating from England the dog is considered the fastest dog ever if not the fastest animal after cheetah. They serve both as hunting dogs and family pet. They are relatively clean animal that they prefer to lie on a sofa to the flour.

Country of Origin:
England

Size type:
Giant Dog Breed

Character:
Greyhounds are intelligent, curious, and affectionate dogs, which are kind to children, and are very loyal to their handler and family. If necessary they will protect their family.

Breed Group:
Hound dog breed

Height:
The shoulder-height for Males is 71-76 cm (28 - 30 in) while the females 68 - 71cm (27 - 28 in).

Weight:
Males: 27 to 40 kg (60 to 88 lb), females: 27 to 34 kg (60 to 75 lb).

Temperament:
They are very good with children but have a tendency to chase small dogs and possibly injure them. They love to chase any moving thing especially fast moving creatures or thing. The Greyhound is not an aggressive dog, as some may believe due to muzzles worn during racing. Muzzles are worn to prevent injuries resulting from dogs nipping one another during or immediately after a race, when the 'hare' has disappeared out of sight and the dogs are no longer racing but still excited. The thin skin of the Greyhound can tear easily from a small nick from teeth, so even a minor skirmish can result in stitches and time out from racing.

Coat:
The Greyhound has both short-haired and rough-haired version. The majority of dogs are black, sandy, white, red, brown, yellow, or a roan.

Care:
The Greyhound is a naturally clean dog and requires minimal grooming. In common with other dogs, the ears should be checked regularly and the claws kept short.

Training:
Greyhound during training requires consistent approach and with much patience and insight, these relatively untamed dogs can be basically trained. Try to direct his natural character towards the desired direction and do not expect a perfectly responsible personality because he's the wrong dog for that. Try to get the dog acquainted with other people and different situations at the puppy stage.

Characteristics:
The Greyhound possesses remarkable stamina and his long-reaching movement enables him to move at great speed; over a measured sprint he is probably the fastest of all dogs. The head is long and elegant, the eyes bright and intelligent, the neck long and muscular. The chest is deep and capacious with the flanks well cut-up, the legs are strong, well boned and powerfully muscled.

Caucasian Shepherd Dog

Breed Description

Overview:
Caucasian Owtcharka as they are also called, are excellent watchdogs in aptitude, bold and very good deterrent of strangers. These dogs immediately show distrust to strangers but very nice to the members of the family that were properly socialized to them. The looks of a Caucasian shepherd dog can be very intimidating coupled to their aggression to intruders makes matters worse.

Country of Origin:
Former Soviet Union

Size type:
Giant dog breed

Character:
It is a very brave, vigilant, strong dog, which is hardy, and distrusts people it does not know, possessing a powerful urge to defend. They were original role was to protect livestock from four-legged and two-legged predators.

Breed Group:
Guardian dog breeds (UKC)

Height:
Shoulder - height: 64 - 72 cm (25 - 28 inches).

Weight:
45 - 70 kg (99 - 154 lb).

Temperament:
The Caucasian Shepherd's original purpose was to protect livestock. The typical Caucasian Owtcharka is assertive, strong-willed and courageous. Unless properly socialized and trained, the Caucasian Shepherd may exhibit ferocious and unmanageable tendencies. It is very brave, alert, strong and hardy. It does not accept people it does not know and it has a powerful urge to defend. Everything and everyone who belongs to the family, including children, cats, other dogs, etc., will be regarded by this dog as part of "its" family and will be respected and protected.

Coat:
The Caucasian shepherd dog has three different kinds of coat: long-haired with a collar and longer-haired hindquarters; short-haired; and medium-length hair without the collar and the long hairs on the hindquarters. The main colours are different shades of grey with light to rust-colored markings; yellow, white, dun, rust-brown; they can be multicoloured and patterned.

Care:
The long-haired types require grooming from time to time with brush and comb, especially where tangles might occur. The coat of the short-haired variety needs less grooming.

Training:
The potential owner of this breed of dog needs to be strong in character and physique. The breed has a distinct sense of right and wrong and you must therefore never treat it severely or punish it unfairly. The right handler can achieve a Caucasian Owtcharka which is obedient and very loyal through mutual respect, that will protect the family and home with its life.

Characteristics:
The Caucasian Shepherd has moderate deep-set, dark eyes. The ears are densely covered with hair for insulation. The hips are slightly raised from the line of the back. The tail is profusely covered with long feathering of heavy hair. The forelimbs are long, straight and densely boned. The paws are large and heavy, with hair between the toes, providing excellent insulation and protection. The nose is black and prominent with well opened, large nostrils. The thick, dense, weather-resistant coat has profuse feathering and is especially effective at keeping out the cold.

Bulldog

Breed Description

Overview:
Bulldog or English Bulldog is a short, compact and very friendly dog with lots of skin folds on the face. They make ideal friends for children and are very tolerant. They have this mastiff looks. Bulldog was used for bull-bating, a sport which began in the early 13 century and continued until it was made illegal in 1835.

Country of Origin:
England

Size type:
Medium dog breed

Character:
The Bulldog is animated, spontaneous, uncomplicated, and equable with a sense of humour, gentle-natured, sensitive but demanding of itself, and is intrepid if necessary, intelligent in a thoughtful way, and peaceful in the house. They are very affectionate and prefer to be close to the family.

Breed Group:
Non-sporting dog breeds

Height:
Shoulder-height: about 31 - 40 cm (12 - 16 inches).

Weight:
Males 24 - 25 kg (53 - 55 lbs.), Females 22 - 23 kg (49 - 51 lbs.).

Temperament:
Although the English Bulldog's appearance can be somewhat intimidating, he is among the gentlest of dogs. Just the same he will see off any intruder, and few would risk a close encounter with a dog brave enough to bait a bull. It is described as a very affectionate and dependable animal, gentle with children, but known for his courage and his excellent guarding abilities. Bullheaded and determined, this breed can be very persistent. They do not give up easily.

Coat:
The English bulldog's coat is short-haired, flat, straight, smooth and glossy. Coat colours include red brindle and other shades of brindle, solid white, solid red, fawn, fallow, piebald, pale yellow or washed-out red or white or a combination of these colours.

Care:
Minimal hair care is required for this breed. When the Bulldog moults, it is easy to remove dead and loose hairs with rubber brush. It is also necessary to clean the folds in the face with special lotion made for this purpose.

Training:
Bulldogs are usually easy to train. They are very sensitive to your voice or voices and will often respond to a friendly but determined request. In no circumstances should they be severely treated but do not let them take liberties either. Remain at all times consistent and clear with them.

Characteristics:
The body and head are massive with extra skin on both the skull and forehead falling in folds. The cheeks extend to the sides of the eyes. The muzzle is wide, short and pug with a broad, deep stop. The black nose is broad with large nostrils. The dark eyes are deep set. The rose ears are small, thin and set high on the head. The jaws are massive, very broad, and square with hanging upper lips. The teeth should have an under bite. The tail is either straight or screwed and carried low.

Bullmastiff

Breed Description

Overview:
The bullmastiff is a 19 -century development of these ancient breeds, the product of a cross between mastiffs and terriers to produce a smaller, more active dog. It was used as often referred to as the Gamekeepers' Dog and because it often worked at night was also sometimes called the Night Dog, recognized as a breed in 1924.

Country of Origin:
England

Size type:
Large Breed Dog

Character:
A sagacious guard and one feared by even the boldest poacher, the Bullmastiff is quick enough to catch the fastest runner and capable of throwing down and holding the strongest of intruders. Officially.

Breed Group:
Working Dog Breed

Height:
The shoulder height is 63.5 - 68.5 (25 - 27in) for dogs and 61 - 66cm (24 - 26in) for bitches.

Weight:
Dogs 50 - 59kg (110 - 130lb),
Bitches 41 - 50kg (90 - 110lb) In AKC

Temperament:
The Bullmastiff temperament combines high spirits, reliability, activity, endurance, and alertness. It is a powerfully built dog showing great strength but not cumbersome.

Coat:
The coat is short-haired and the colours, which may be streaked, are tan or red-brown, always with darker muzzle and ears. A little white on the chest is permitted.

Care:
The bullmastiff requires little grooming but there is a need to remove dead and loose hairs with a rubber brush or massage glove.

Training:
The bullmastiff reacts best to a fair, stable and consistent approach carried out in a harmonious manner. Sensitive to the tone of your voice the bullmastiff is not really difficult to train but requires a handler who can assert his authority.

Characteristics:
The head is large and square, and the skin wrinkles when the dog becomes interested in something. The neck is well arched and very muscular.

Neapolitan Mastiff

Breed Description

Overview:
Neapolitan Mastiff also known as Italian Mastiff or Italian Bulldog among other names is an ancient breed originated from Italy.

Country of Origin:
Italy

Size type:
Large Breed Dog

Character:
Neapolitan mastiff is a dominant, watchful, equable, and peaceful dog which is brave, intelligent, not aggressive, affectionate, demanding of itself, and does not really bark.

Breed Group:
Working Dog Breed

Height:
The shoulder height is 65 - 75cm (25.5 - 29.5in) for dogs and 60 - 68cm (23.5 - 26.5in) for bitches.

Weight:
50 - 70kg (110 - 154lb)

Temperament:
Like many dogs originally bred for fighting, the Neapolitan mastiff is devoted to and fiercely protective of his family. The dog can be somewhat dominant towards other dogs that they meet, but with regard to children they are generally always loving, provided the children do not tease them.

Coat:
The coat is short-haired and most usually blue-grey; they can also be grey, black, brown, and fox red. All colours may be broken. A little white on the chest or feet is permitted.

Care:
During moulting the dead and loose hairs are best removed with a rubber brush. The breed likes a draught-free and dry place to sleep which must be soft to prevent pressure marks.

Training:
This breed requires a good, well-balanced training. Ensure you are consistent in approach and do not keep repeating commands that it has failed to obey. This breed is for experienced trainer. A calm handler with natural leadership will achieve the best result with this breed. It is in their nature to protect you and your possessions and he does not need to be reminded.

Characteristics:
The head is so massive that it seems to be the most important part of the body. The ears fall toward the front, the brilliant and penetrating eyes are black or grey, the chest is deep and hairy, the hind legs powerful. The loose-fitting skin round the head and sagging dewlap give it a rather mournful expression.

Pomeranian

Breed Description

Overview:
The Pomeranian is possibly the smallest of the Spitz breeds family but retains all the courage and character of its larger cousins. They are no longer used to shepherd sheep, but remains an alert house dog, capable of warning of the presence of intruders with a surprisingly deep bark, giving the impression that a larger animal is on duty.

Country of Origin:
Germany

Size type:
Small dog breed

Character:
Pomeranians are lively dogs, which is boisterous or noisy in nature, can be too brave, is intelligent, eager to learn, very loyal to its handler and family, vigilant, energetic, has a delightful nature and does not cling to its handler.

Breed Group:
Toy dog breeds

Height:
The shoulder height of smaller Pomeranians is 18 - 22cm (7 - 8.5in) and 23 - 28cm (9 - 11in) for the larger ones.

Weight:
1.8 - 2.5kg (4 - 5.5in).

Temperament:
Too much attention from children can make these dogs rather nervous. They usually get along with other dogs and household animals without problem. Some of them think they are much larger and do not hesitate to attack much bigger dogs. You need to protect them from themselves.

Coat:
These dogs have long, erect hairs and a thick undercoat. The colours are plain white, orange, black, brown or grey.

Care:
The coat should be well combed with a coarse comb every three weeks and then lightly brushed. If you use too fine a comb or groom the dog frequently, you run the risk of damaging the undercoat.

Training:
Teach this dog early that it may bark a couple of times when the doorbell rings or there are visitors but then to keep quiet, be very consistent about this! Pomeranians are generally fairly easy to train because they are so intelligent and eager to learn.

Characteristics:
The head is fox-like in shape and expression, the eyes bright and dark in colour, the ears small and erect. The shortness of the neck and body are accentuated by the characteristic Spitz ruff and curled tail. Movement is smooth and free.

Great Dane

Breed Description

Overview:
In spite of the name the breed has no close association with Denmark. Although, some people put its origin to Egypt, it was in Germany that the breed was developed and achieved popularity. Great Danes are favoured by Bismarck and were used to hunt wild boar. In spite of its present group classification the Great Dane's original work was that of a hound.

Country of Origin:
Germany

Size type:
Giant Dog breeds

Character:
Great Danes are affectionate, calm, and intelligent dogs that are sensible, sensitive, very loyal to the handler and family and not easily let astray by bribes. Despite the fact that they do not bark much, these dogs make excellent watchdogs.

Breed Group:
Working dog breeds

Height:
The shoulder height is a minimum of 80cm (31.5in) for dogs and 72cm (28.5in) for bitches. There is no maximum standard and generally people like the dogs to be well over the minimum.

Weight:
These dogs weight 50kg (110lb) upwards, depending upon the size and sex.

Temperament:
Generally Great Danes get on perfectly well with their own kind, other household pets, and children. Most of they are rather uncertain of strangers but friends of the family will be warmly greeted.

Coat:
They have short smooth-haired coats which have accepted colours: yellow (which can be streaked) with a black face; black, perhaps with a little white, or white with black spots (known as harlequin and the only variety permitted to have blue eyes and partially flesh colored muzzle); and blue. Two other colours are accepted in some countries. These are the "mantel" which has a black coat covering almost all the dog like a mantel, with white showing on just the chest, neck, blaze, belly, legs, and tip of the tail; with the other variety, this mantel is broken with white. Both are considered as black in some countries. The different colours are not interbred.

Care:
The Great Dane's coat requires very little attention. During moulting it is best to remove dead and loose hairs with a rubber brush. The Great Dane must always be allowed to lie somewhere soft to avoid causing pressure marks. Fast-growing breeds like the Great Dane require care during the growing stage. The first essential is the right nutrition. The other point to watch is to limit exercise, avoid pressurising and over-tiring, which can cause serious problems for the development of bones, joints and muscles. They do not belong in a kennel and are rather fond of comfort.

Training:
The Great Dane grows in a very short period into a very large dog. You must therefore teach it as a very young dog that it must not pull on the lead. Train it with understanding in an harmonious manner and with great consistency. They are very sensitive to the intonation of the voice and your friendly request is often sufficient to get them to do what you require.

Characteristics:
Great Danes should be very large, very muscular, strongly though elegantly built. The head is carried high and the whole outline should be elegant.

Alaska Malamute

Breed Description

Overview:
Alaska Malamute is a thick haired breed used mainly as sledge dog and family pet. The wolf-like breed is always independent in nature but very friendly even to strangers.

Country of Origin:
North America (Alaska)

Size type:
Large Breed dog

Character:
The Alaska Malamute is an affectionate dog which is intelligent, friendly, loyal, and noble, but can have a mind of its own and be dominant and certainly never slavishly following your whims. They learn quickly and have tremendous stamina.

Breed Group:
Working dog breed

Height:
The shoulder-height is about 64cm (25.5in) for dogs and about 58cm (22.5in) for bitches.

Weight:
Female: 32 - 38 kg, Male: 36 - 43 kg

Temperament:
Alaska Malamutes generally gets on well with children as they are actually friendly with everyone which makes them quite unsuitable as watchdogs. They can display dominant behaviour with other dogs of the same sex as themselves. Cats are not really suitable companions in the same house unless you have accustomed the dog to cats when he was young.

Coat:
The Alaska Malamute has a thick, coarse outer-coat with a greasy and wholly under-coat. The normal colours are wolf-grey, or black with white, always with white on the stomach and white face or top of the head. Other colours are permitted but white is the only plain colour which is accepted.

Care:
Much grooming is not really needed for Alaska Malamute but during moulting it is best to use a coarse comb with a double row of teeth to remove loose and dead hairs.

Training:
Despite the friendly nature, this dog needs firm hand in its training. The Malamute therefore calls for a handler with plenty of confidence who can understand the character of this dog. With such a handler they can learn a great deal even including agility skills, although it will be outperformed in competition by one of sheepdog breeds.

Characteristics:
Alaska Malamute comes with thick hair coat and large paws. They are slightly longer than tall, compactly built, but not short coupled. The chest is deep and well enlarged. Beneath the coat of this breed is a well-muscled dog.

Dogo Argentino

Breed Description

Overview:
Dogo Argentino was created by Dr. Antonio Nores Martinez in Argentina in 1928. Dr. Martinez crossed several breeds of dog amounting to about 10 breeds with a now-extinct breed of dog from Cordoba. This all white dog was intended to possess the hunting ability and protecting instinct for its owner by its creator Dr. Antonio Nores Martinez.

Country of Origin:
Argentina

Size type:
Large dog breed

Character:
The Dogo Argentino is a strong, fierce and still loving breed. They were created for the purpose of big game hunting and so display a certain tenacity. However, they were also created to protect and love their family, making them excellent companions.

Breed Group:
Working dog breed

Height:
The shoulder-height is 61 - 69cm (24 - 27in)

Weight:
36 - 45kg (80 - 100lb)

Temperament:
The Dogo Argentino is very good with children and makes a good guardian of the home and family. This breed is very playful in nature especially at puppy stage.

Coat:
The Dogo Argentino comes in short-hair and very easy to care for. Occasional brushing might be required especially when moulting or shedding.

Training:
The Dogo Argentino is a highly intelligent dog and very powerful and quite easy to train if the trainer is consistent using loving but firm authority. This breed needs someone who understands how to display leadership meaning that the person has to be firm, confident and consistent.

Characteristics:
The Dogo Argentino is a large, well-muscled dog. The deep-set chest is wide. There is an abundance of skin on the muscular neck. The head is massive with a rounded shape from front to the back. The muzzle concaves upwards slightly, with a slight stop and is about the same length as the skull. The jaws are strong. The teeth should meet in a scissors bite. The nose is black. The eyes are set well apart, and are dark brown, light brown or hazel in colour. The rims of the eyes should be pink or black. The ears are set high and are usually cropped to make them stand erect, and triangular in shape. The thighs are very muscular with a short hock. There are usually no dewclaws. The thick tail is long and carried naturally low reaching the hock. The thick, glossy coat is white and has no undercoat.

Following

Havanese

Breed Description

Overview:
The Havanese has won many admirers with their long, Silky hair, expressive eyes, and small size. Originating from Cuba they were bred as companion dog to Cuban aristocracy in 1800s. The nickname "Velcro dog" was given to them because they tend to stick so closely to their owner's side.

Country of Origin:
Cuba

Size type:
Small breed dog

Character:
The Havanese is friendly, intelligent, vigilant, playful, and sometimes they can be a bit obstinate.

Breed Group:
Toy dog breed
Height:
The shoulder - height is 20 - 28cm (8 - 11in)

Weight:
3 - 6kg (7 - 13lb)

Temperament:
The Havanese gets along well with all-comers-dogs, cats or other pets, and they can be fine too with children but they do not like to be pestered by them. If this does happen, the dog will tend to become withdrawn for quite some time.

Coat:
The long-haired coat has no undercoat. Any colour is accepted, with the exception of black which is not recognized by some countries.

Care:
The coat needs considerable grooming. These dogs need to be thoroughly brushed and be combed at least twice per week. This is best done with a coarse comb. Clip excess hair between the pads of the feet.

Training:
The Havanese learns quickly and enjoys doing things for you this is why the breed used to be so widely found as circus dogs. He is very sensitive to the intonation of your voice and harsh words will achieve very little except to upset the dog unnecessarily. Some of them tend to bark more than necessary, so teach them early not to do so before it becomes a habit.

Following.. Coach

Samoyed

Breed Description

Overview:
The Samoyed is probably the oldest of the Northern Spitz breeds. Originally bred as a guard for herds of reindeer, the breed also acted as companion, guard and sled dog. It shared the hard life of the Sayantsi people in ancient times, and more recently accompanied the polar explorers Nansen, Shackleton, Scott, and Amundsen on their expeditions. The Samoyed's strength, stamina, and hardiness are belied by its child-like good nature and soft, fairy-tale appearance.

Country of Origin:
Western Siberia

Size type:
Medium sized dog breed

Character:
The Samoyed is friendly and cheerful, intelligent and reasonably obedient, yet never follows your orders slavishly and can be extremely stubborn. They are sensitive and good-natured but dominant and vigilant, affectionate but not obtrusively so. The Samoyed loves to wander, has considerable stamina, and remains playful into old age. They love to hear themselves and can be very noisy.

Breed Group:
Working dog breed

Height:
The shoulder-height for Males is 57cm (22.5in), and Females 53cm (20.5in).

Weight:
22.5 - 29.5kg (50 - 65lb).

Temperament:
The Samoyed is gentle-natured and patient with children but can be rather dominant towards their own kind. Do not forget that Samoyed is a hunting dog which enjoys chasing something if it gets the chance. Social training with cats and other pets is therefore very important! The dog is reasonably vigilant.

Coat:
The protective topcoat is wiry and erect, while the undercoat is short and dense. The coat is white, cream, or white with light brown.

Care:
The Samoyed is not meant to be brushed too often because this can harm the under-layer of its coat. If too many hairs are shed in your home use a comb with a double row of metal teeth to remove the loose hairs from the undercoat.

Training:
For the Samoyed breed, training is no easy task and needs to begin very early. Make sure there is plenty of variety in the drills. Constantly practicing the same command can have an adverse effect on this breed, its stubbornness taking over. Teach him when very young that he must come to you when you call and arrange for many positive encounters with cats and other household animals as possible. Your authority should be clearly seen but with a friendly touch. Screaming and shouting at him and hitting him will lose you any respect he may have had.

Characteristics:
The Samoyed should be strong, active, and graceful, with a muscular back of medium length allowing liberty of movement. The chest is deep and well sprung, the neck is proudly arched, the front is straight, and the loins are exceptionally strong, giving an impression of great endurance. The head is powerful and wedge-shaped, the eyes almond-shaped with an intelligent expression. The ears are erect and thick, covered inside with hair. The tail is long and profusely coated, carried over the back when alert, but sometimes dropped when at rest.

Old English Sheepdog

Breed Description

Overview:
The Old English sheepdog was used not so much as a herding dog but as a drovers dog for driving sheep and cattle to market. They were probably developed, if they did not originate, in the West of England, by using either indigenous herding breeds such as the Bearded Collie or, less likely, imported stock such as Russian Owtchow.

Country of Origin:
England

Size type:
Large dog breed

Character:
The Old English Sheepdog is intelligent, considerably adaptable, amiable, social, not particularly alert, boisterous, uncomplicated nature, and likes to be part of the family. They are the most faithful breed; playful and excellent with children.

Breed Group:
Working dog breed

Height:
The shoulder-height of the dogs is 61cm (24in) and upwards, bitches 56cm (22in).

Weight:
30kg (66lb) or more.

Temperament:
The Old English Sheepdog gets on exceptionally well with other animals, dogs, and children. Visitors too will be greeted warmly.

Coat:
The coat is luxuriant, rough, tough, and long, with a waterproof under-layer. Permitted colours are blue or different shades of grey. The head, neck, front quarters, and belly are white, with or without markings. White patches in the blue on the back are not permissible.

Care:
The Old English Sheepdog requires regular grooming: brush them thoroughly at least once a week, not over-looking the places where tangles form. During moulting it is quite possible to collect half or even a whole rubbish bag full of hair that you have brushed off him.

Training:
This breed needs gentle and consistent handling during training. He wants to please you and rarely display dominant behaviour, making it suitable for people with little experience of the upbringing of dogs.

Characteristics:
The Old English Sheepdog is a strong, compact-looking dog, profusely coated all over, very elastic in a gallop, but when walking or trotting it has a characteristic ambling or pacing movement. The bark should be loud with peculiar "bell-like" ring to it. The head is large and rather squarely formed, and the jaw is fairly long and strong.