Dog Breeds: Which is Your Perfect Pet?
By Linda Sacco
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Smashwords Edition
Copyright 2010 Linda Sacco
Discover other titles by Linda Sacco at Smashwords.com.
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Contents
Chihuahua (Long and Smooth Coat)
So you think you want a dog? You have arrived at a great starting point. This book contains all the information you need to find the perfect breed to match your lifestyle.
There is much to consider. Honestly, how much time would you like to spend grooming? Even the smoothest of smooth coats needs combing once a week, and may even shed by the handful. There are also those who never shed, and need regular visits to the professional dog groomer. And no matter what infomercials may promise you, there is no one-size-fits-all brush for dogs – several grooming tools may be required for some breeds.
Are you happy to share the house with a hound? Some dogs cannot withstand the elements and have to remain indoors. Some will only be happy outside on a farm.
Is there or will there be children in the future? Do you have rough and tumble tykes or angel-like high school students? Some breeds find children nerve-wracking to be around and prefer adult company whilst others will happily play with children for hours.
Have other pets already blessed your household? Some breeds must be the only dog in the house but others love the companionship of other pets and find it cures their separation anxiety. Others will want to hunt cats, rodents and rabbits.
Health concerns burden some breeds more than others do. If your wallet does not stretch too far, you may want to avoid high-risk dogs.
Finally, “How much is that doggy in the window?” is a valid question, but it should not be the only one. Although a dog’s looks (and price tag) can play a part in the selection process, a dog is above all a lifestyle choice. You must be prepared to accommodate a dog’s needs for the whole of its life, which could be over 15 years. With all this in mind, you are on your way to discovering a suitable furry friend.
This group of dogs comprises of the smallest breeds. Most were once the prized lap dogs of royals and some are little versions of larger breeds whilst others have terrier ancestry.
They were bred to be companions and more than any other group of dogs – they are devoted pets. They are not preoccupied with a lingering instinct to herd sheep, hunt wild boar or track scents. Nor are they inactive. Toys are playful and require regular exercise just like any other dog.
Indoor life suits these dogs. Most crave constant companionship and many are resistant to the heat and cold.
Most enjoy children, but rough handling could lead to tragedy. Other pets are usually a welcome playmate of the toy.
Grooming may mean a daily labour of love for long haired silky dogs or a weekly brush that takes minutes. There is a toy to suit any coat preference.
This is generally a healthy bunch. Many live into their teens. However, patellar luxations (dislocated kneecaps) are common and many experience obesity.
Be warned that toys are full-time pets. They aren’t nicknamed ‘Velcro dogs’ for nothing!
Toy Dogs Photo Gallery
Australian Silky Terrier, Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, Japanese Chin, Pekingese, Pug
Height: 20–23cm at the shoulder
Weight: 3.5–4.5kg
The Australian Silky Terrier may look glamorous, but it is an expert rat killer and mighty watchdog. Although originally an export from Britain, the breed was refined in Sydney. This merry, yet assertive dog makes an affectionate pet.
Coat and Grooming: Pups are born black and tan. As most Silkies mature, the colour will change to silver and tan, with blue along the spine. A daily brush is recommended, as is a fortnightly bath.
Environment and Exercise: Can live indoors if given daily exercise. A moderate walk on a leash will be sufficient.
Compatibility with Kids and other Pets: Silkies tend to be one-person dogs. This lucky person is usually the one who serves them food, so make it a child if you wish for them to bond. Only gentle children should be allowed near this breed as rough handling is likely to make Silky snap! Other pets beware: unless Silky is well socialised with other pets as a pup, they should not be trusted together.
Health: Rotten teeth are common in this breed. This is best helped by giving your pet raw bones. Other known problems include eye defects and patellar luxations. Nonetheless, this hardy breed can live up to 15 years.
Height: 25–29cm at the shoulder
Weight: 4.5–8kg
The Bichon Frise is a friendly powder-puff. The breed has a long and turbulent history, dating back to ancient times. At the height of their popularity, they were a favourite of European royals, but later became a common street dog when they fell out of fashion. Luckily, street performers caught on to the Bichon Frisé’s willingness to perform tricks, and the breed was saved from extinction.
Coat and Grooming: The loosely curled double coat comes in white. The Bichon is noted for its minimal (if any) shedding and is considered hypoallergenic, which makes it a safe choice for allergy suffers. Grooming is required three times a week. Visit the professional dog groomer for trimming every 1–2 months.
Environment and Exercise: Not recommended as an outdoor pet. Apartment dwellers will perfectly suit the Bichon. However, as a moderately active dog they enjoy indoor games and going out for regular exercise at least once or twice a week.
Compatibility with Kids and other Pets: A very good choice for a child’s pet. The Bichon is also friendly with other pets.
Health: Dislocated kneecaps and cataracts are concerns. Expected lifespan is 12–15 years.
Height: 30–33cm at the shoulder
Weight: 5–8kg
This charming breed has sat in the laps of many royals throughout history. In the 1600s, hordes of them were the constant companion of King Charles II. The Cavalier thrives on company and is happy to spend equal time as an indoor lapdog and an explorer of the great outdoors.
Coat and Grooming: The Cavalier comes in Blenheim (red and white), Tri Colour (black, white and tan), Ruby (solid red) and Black and Tan. The medium length coat requires brushing every day or so. Pay careful attention to the ears and feathering on the chest, legs and tail.
Environment and Exercise: A small backyard is ideal but the breed will also suit apartment dwellers. Either way, they are moderately active and need a stroll around the block a few times each week to keep them trim.
Compatibility with Kids and other Pets: Kids love Cavaliers and Cavaliers love kids! The friendly Cavalier will play for hours. And if gently introduced, the Cavalier will enjoy the companionship of another pet, particularly another Cavalier.
Health: Heart Mitral Valve Disease is the leading killer of Cavaliers. As a precaution, make sure your pup was not bred from dogs younger than 5 years and ensure the parents were given the all clear from a vet. Lifespan is generally 8–14 years.
Chihuahua (Long and Smooth Coat)
Height: 15–25cm at the shoulder
Weight: 1–3kg
Although the Chihuahua is the smallest of all dog breeds, they have no trouble asserting themselves against authority. They need discipline and can be slightly difficult to train. However, this loyal breed adores its owner, and will happily fulfil watchdog duties.
Coat and Grooming: There are two coat lengths to choose from. The Smooth Coat requires weekly brushing. The Long Coat has a flat or slightly curly coat with fringed ears. They need grooming 2–3 times a week. The Chihuahua comes in a multitude of colours ranging from white, cream, sable, sand, blue to black.
Environment and Exercise: Chihuahuas thrive indoors. They have little tolerance for the cold. Even though they require little exercise, they still benefit from going out for short walks.
Compatibility with Kids and other Pets: This breed prefers older people. They are not that friendly with other pets, particularly other breeds of dog.
Health: Their prominent eyes can be susceptible to corneal dryness and secondary glaucoma. Gum problems are also common, as are colds. However, this hardy little critter usually lives between 14–18 years old.