Monday, September 22, 2008

Askal of the philippines


Askal = Asong Kalye (English = Stray dog)

It seems that the Shih Tzu breed is becoming quite a trend with dog owners lately. Just go to pet-friendly shopping centers like Eastwood City and Tiendesitas—you’ll see them everywhere. A few years ago, it was the Labrador Retriever popular in homes. That makes me wonder… Will there ever come a time when our very own native dog gain popularity among dog owners?

The native dog, commonly called the “askal” (a colloquial shortcut for “asong kalye,” which translates to “dog from the streets”), are usually looked down upon. Worse, they usually get intentionally run down by merciless drivers or taken to slaughter houses to be put to death and later eaten. Some people think they’re expendable since they don’t have pedigrees worth thousands of pesos. Heck, even some breeders who claim to be “dog lovers” look down upon the native dogs.

They may not have pedigrees to boast about, but native dogs are as smart and as loyal as any other dog breed.

Spike, our dog pack’s alpha male, is a native dog. He’s been with us for more than 10 years already, and I wouldn’t be exaggerating if I said he’d die for us if he had to. Spike is closest to my younger sister, Joyce. Joyce is schizophrenic. She’s OK now, but there was a time when she was still throwing violent tantrums.

Spike kept watch at my sister and made sure that she was ok. He even slept near her—near enough to see what she’s doing, but far enough from her reach just in case she had another tantrum. I can clearly remember a time when he saved my sister from hurting herself. We were all asleep, and had no idea that Joyce was already having a violent tantrum. Spike woke us all up, and took us where Joyce was. If it weren’t for him, we don’t know what could have happened.

A few years ago, I’ve seen a feature on TV about a native dog who can perform incredible tricks. And saw a different one on a magazine. Now, you can’t say that these dogs aren’t smart—because obviously, they are.

Loyalty? Of course, the native dog can be very loyal. They love their masters to the hilt—and would remain loyal to them till death. Honestly, I rather think that sometimes a native dog is more loyal than some of the more stubborn purebreds.

Let’s give the Philippine native dog the recognition it deserves, shall we? Be proud of being a native dog owner!

Tuesday, September 9, 2008

Spinone Italiano

Gentle, devoted, and eager to please their owners, Spinone Italianos are excellent family pets for those with the space and the time to dedicate to these animals. They are well suited to inexperienced dog owners as well as those with experience, and their intelligence means that training should not prove too much of a challenge. The Spinone Italiano is fairly quick to learn and very responsive, with a sociable attitude. These dogs have real strength of character, and whilst they can be playful and entertaining can also be very sensible, laid back, and even serious. Early socialization is recommended for the Spinone Italiano in order to promote and stable and confident temperament. He does need a lot of attention and exercise, and being a large dog will also need plenty of space.

The Spinone Italiano loves to swim, and digging is another favorite pastime, as is jumping. This means that he needs a safe and secured area in which to play and exercise when not on a leash. He is a sensitive dog, and training needs to be positive. These dogs are known to be very good with children, although his size may prove a problem with very small children. They also tend to get along well with pets, and will usually be polite if a little cautious around strangers. The Spinone Italiano will bark to raise an alarm, so he does make an effective watchdog, and his size is likely to put off any potential burglar. These dogs will fare well with a family that can provide them with plenty of activity, attention, love, and space.

Saturday, September 6, 2008

Petit Basset Griffon Vendeen



The Petit Basset Griffon Vendeen is a courageous and independent dog, with plenty of character, spirit, and enthusiasm. This is a keen scenthound with a very inquisitive nature, and therefore should always have somewhere safe and secure to play and exercise when he is not on a leash. The Petit Basset Griffon Vendeen has bags of energy and needs a fair amount of exercise. He is also a dog that enjoys the affections and companionship of his owners, and is not well suited to those unable to commit time to their pets. The Petit Basset Griffon Vendeen is an entertaining and cheerful soul, but his stubborn streak and bossy nature means that he is better suited to those with some experience of dog ownership. Females tend to be the more dominant sex with this breed, and when it comes to training owners need to be positive yet assertive in order to achieve results.

The Petit Basset Griffon Vendeen can be very boisterous and mischievous, and this means that you may need to exercise caution around very small children who may inadvertently get knocked over or hurt. However, that said, the Petit Basset Griffon Vendeen does get along very well with children as well as with strangers. He should be fine around cats and dogs, if a little bossy, but should not be trusted around smaller animals such as rabbits. The Petit Basset Griffon Vendeen loves to dig, which is something to bear in mind when he is left in his secure area, as it may not be as secure as you think! He also loves to bark, and this adds to his watchdog abilities but means that he is not best suited to those looking for a quiet pet.

Pharaoh Hound



Graceful, elegant, and dignified, the Pharaoh Hound is an agile and energetic dog with plenty to offer to the right family or owner. These dogs often like to bark, and although this makes him an effective watchdog he may not be the right choice for those looking for a quiet life. The Pharaoh Hound does need a fair amount of exercise, but should only be allowed to run free in a properly secured and safe area if he is not on a leash, as he will chase most things that run. Although the Pharaoh Hound likes to play and exercise, he is also fond of his creature comforts and will make himself comfortable indoors. He is not a dog that likes to be overly cuddled, but he is an affectionate creature that enjoys the companionship and interaction.

The Pharaoh Hound gets along very well with children, and will always be ready to play and have some fun. He usually gets along well with other pets, but smaller pets may be in danger as he has very strong chasing instincts. He tends to be cautious yet polite and inquisitive when strangers are around. In order to minimize the risk of timidity, which can run in some lines, early socialization is recommended with the Pharaoh Hound. These dogs have excellent eyesight, as you would expect from a sighthound, and are also very intelligent with a fairly good learning rate. However, training can be a challenge and this breed is best suited to those with some experience of dog ownership.

American Eskimo



The American Eskimo Dog is a very playful and energetic dog, although many do calm down as they grow older. This is a breed that loves companionship and play, and has plenty of spirit, courage, and bags of curiosity. The American Eskimo Dog can get bored easily if not kept entertained, and this can lead to destructive behavior. These dogs are intelligent and quick to learn, but can also be very independent and strong willed. Very good at problems solving and doing tricks, these dogs should be fine when it comes to training. However, you should also bear in mind that the American Eskimo Dog loves to bark and dig, and therefore may not be the best choice for those looking for a peaceful lifestyle, although they are well suited to inexperienced dog owners as well as more experienced ones.

You should find that the American Eskimo Dog gets on well with older, considerate children, and should be okay with other dogs and pets, although they can be predatory when around smaller creatures such as birds and rodents. The American Eskimo Dog can also have a jealous streak when it comes to other animals getting attention. Sensitive and alert, the American Eskimo Dog makes a good watchdog.

Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever



One of the smallest retrievers around, the Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever is a reliable, enthusiastic, and cheerful dog. These dogs make great companions and pets, and are well suited to the more inexperienced dog owner as well as those with experience. The Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever has a mild manner and a gentle nature. He is a spirited and energetic dog, and enjoys plenty of exercise and play - his favorite activities include playing fetch and swimming. Early socialization to avoid timidity is important with this breed, and plenty of mental and physical stimulation is required to keep him alert and interested. The Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever does have a tendency to chew, which needs to be kept under control, and some can be strong headed and dominant.

The Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever is a playful and happy creature, and is always eager to please his owner. He is an intelligent dog and quick to learn, but boredom and distraction can sometimes make training a challenge - owners need to be confident and assertive, whilst always using positive reward-based training methods for best results. The Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever can whine when he gets excited, and most enjoy digging up the garden. This is a sociable and friendly breed, and gets along well with gentle children, as well as with other pets. Most will be a little wary of strangers at first. The Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever will bark, and this means that he can be an effective watchdog, but he is too gentle and good natured to make it as a guard dog. These dogs will fare well with a family that is active and has plenty of time to dedicate to a pet.

Rhodesian Ridgeback



The Rhodesian Ridgeback is a dog that has plenty of energy, especially as a puppy, and needs an owner that can provide plenty of stimulation and interaction. These dogs are friendly, but aggression can be a problem in some lines, which means that early socialization is essential. Serious, sensible, and dignified, the Rhodesian Ridgeback is a very independent and confident breed, and is best suited to owners with confidence, assertiveness, and experience in dog ownership. He is an intelligent dog and is quick to learn, but training may prove a challenge as he can also be very testing. This is a dog that demands respect in order to give respect, and can be a dominant, demanding, and controlling. However, with the right owner and the right training, he can be a well balanced, loving family pet and companion.

The Rhodesian Ridgeback is a very loyal and protective dog. His suspicion of strangers makes him an effective protector. He will get along well with children when brought up with them, but younger children are not recommended, as these dogs do not like to be handled roughly. With early socialization he tends to get along okay with other animals, although he may be bossy with them. A devoted sight and scent hound, the Rhodesian Ridgeback is prone to wander off of something stirs his curiosity, and therefore a safe, secured area is essential unless he is on a leash. With early socialization, consistent training, and a confident, assertive owner, the Rhodesian Ridgeback can make a very good family pet.

Norwich Terrier



A hardy, adaptable, and inquisitive little dog, the Norwich Terrier is a small dog with a big personality. These dogs, cousins of the Norfolk Terrier, have plenty of energy, and love to play, exercise, and have fun. Early socialization is important with the Norwich Terrier to ensure an even temperament and to reduce the risk of timidity. These dogs can be hardy, headstrong, and determined, which means that the owner needs to be assertive and confident in order to establish leadership. Therefore, the Norwich Terrier is best suited to more experienced dog owners with some knowledge of training. With the right training, the Norwich Terrier will fare well, as he is intelligent and a quick learner. Although he is suited to apartment living, the Norwich Terrier needs daily walks or a safe and secured area in which to play and exercise.

The Norwich Terrier can be very possessive when it comes to his food or belongings, and can be jealous of other pets. He will get along well with children that are gentle and those he has been brought up with. This breed should be introduced to cats from an early age. With strangers some Norwich Terriers will be friendly, but others may be more reserved. Those with beautiful gardens should be warned that the Norwich Terrier is a very keen digger, and if you are looking for a quiet life this may not be the ideal choice, as he also loved to bark. However, he will bark to raise an alarm too, and this makes him an effective watchdog.

Great Pyrenees



A gentle, friendly, and affectionate breed, the Great Pyrenees loves the companionship of humans, and is a great choice for a family pet for those that have adequate space for this giant dog to get some exercise. The Great Pyrenees is very intelligent and quick to learn, and is a courageous and protective dog that makes for a good watchdog. These dogs can be stubborn and very independent, which makes them more suited to those with some experience of dog ownership. Although generally quiet and inactive indoors, these dogs love to release some of their pent up energy when outdoors, and love to play and enjoy a range of outdoor activities.

The Great Pyrenees gets on well with children when raised with them, but their size can prove a problem when it comes to very small children. He is gentle and protective with children. He will usually be protective of other animals in the household too, but may chase strange animals away. It is important to be assertive and confident with the Great Pyrenees, as he can otherwise assume leadership and become bossy. Early obedience training and socialization are important for this breed. The Great Pyrenees is a dog that likes to wander off and explore, so you should ensure that he is always in a secured area with appropriate fencing or on a leash.

Brittany



A loyal, dedicated, cheerful, and eager dog, the Brittany is a god that loves to play and exercise, and has plenty of energy. Highly intelligent and obedient, these dogs are easy to train, and this makes them great for inexperienced dog owners as well as for the more experienced. The Brittany loves people and attention, and it is important not to neglect these dogs, as boredom can soon lead to destructive behavior. These sensitive dogs are always eager to please their owners, but are also independent, spirited, and fun loving creatures that love to join in with the fun and the action.

When it comes to children the Brittany is a gentle and stable creature that gets on well with youngsters, and also gets on well with other animals, although as with all dogs it is important that you socialize them early on. With strangers some can be quite timid. Their love and protective streak for their family makes them effective watchdogs, and they will bark to sound an alarm should anything seem amiss. Some Brittany lines can be timid, and in order to prevent excessive shyness or submissiveness, early socialization is needed. In all, the Brittany makes a good family pet for those with plenty of devotion to give, and is fine in households with children and other animals.

Chesapeake Bay Retriever



A devoted, determined, and sensible breed, the Chesapeake Bay Retriever is a dog that is very loyal to his family and very protective, making him an effective watchdog. These dogs can be territorial and can therefore be aggressive with strange animals and wary around strangers. The Chesapeake Bay Retriever gets along well with considerate children, and will also accept family pets that he has been brought up and well socialized with. The Chesapeake Bay Retriever is a confident and sometimes dominant breed, and is best suited to those with some experience of dog ownership.

The Chesapeake Bay Retriever is an excellent retriever, and will be thrilled to retrieve anything that he is told to. These dogs also love the water, and can spend many hours in the coldest waters. They also love to run, play, and get involved with a wide range of activities, and need plenty of exercise outdoors. Eager and quick to learn, training can vary with this breed - they are very intelligent, but their confidence means that the owner will need to be assertive and to reinforce leadership. These dogs are not very active indoors but have bags of energy to be burnt up when outdoors. The Chesapeake Bay Retriever also tends to chew a lot, so it is important to ensure that he has the appropriate outlet in terms of suitable toys otherwise he may turn to your belongings.

Norfolk Terrier



The Norfolk Terrier is an outgoing, energetic, and playful creature. These dogs are generally sociable and friendly, but can be very independent, headstrong, and possessive, which makes them best suited to those with some experience of dog ownership. Although small, the Norfolk Terrier has plenty of courage and personality. Training shouldn't prove too difficult, as these are intelligent dogs and are quick to learn. These little dogs love to dig, so prepare to be horrified if you have the perfect garden. They may also bark a lot, so if you are after total peace and quiet then this may not be the pet for you. The Norfolk Terrier is an inquisitive creature, and has plenty of energy. You will need to ensure that he gets plenty of exercise and play. This breed will adapt well to apartment living, but will need a safe and secured place to play and exercise, or daily walks.

Early socialization is important with the Norfolk Terrier to ensure that he does not become overly timid. A well socialized Norfolk Terrier gets along well with gentle children and those he has been brought up with. These dogs also get along okay with most other pets, although they can become jealous of them. He should not be trusted around rabbits and smaller animals. Some Norfolk Terriers will be friendly when it comes to strangers, but others may be more wary depending on the personality of the dog. The Norfolk Terrier's tendency to bark and raise an alarm makes him an effective watchdog. With the right training and early socialization the Norfolk Terrier makes a charming companion and a loving family pet.

Chinese Crested



The Chinese Crested is a small dog with plenty of love and affection to give, and a real love of human company. The Chinese Crested is a dog that is for those with plenty of time to commit and dedicate to their pet, as breed does not like to be neglected. The Chinese Crested has plenty of spirit and is cheerful, playful, and lively. He is also alert, intelligent, and inquisitive, and is quick to learn, although he can be very independent and strong willed. The Chinese Crested loves to climb, play, and perform tricks, and he is very fond of spending time with his owners to the point where he has become known by some as a 'velcro dog'.

The Chinese Crested gets on well with older, considerate children that will be gentle with him, and he also gets along with other pets, although he can sometimes get a little jealous. When it comes to strangers he can be a little reserved and timid. The gentle and bright nature of the Chinese Crested makes him well suited to inexperienced dog owners as well as more experienced owners. It is important that the Chinese Crested is socialized early on, as otherwise timidity can set in, and the dog may become highly strung and over emotional. However, with effective training and early socialization the Chinese Crested can make a great little companion dog and pet.

Chinese Shar-Pei



An easy going breed, the Chinese Shar-Pei is a dog that can be friendly when well socialized, but can also be fiercely independent and aloof. This is a serious and confident dog, and often keeps himself to himself. The Chinese Shar-Pei is a dog that commands respect, but will also give mutual respect when properly trained and socialized. Aggression with other dogs and animals can be a problem, and this dog was bred originally as a fighting dog, which is an instinct that he may still have if provoked. It is important to ensure that this breed receives early socialization if you want him to be around children and other pets.

You will find that training the Chinese Shar-Pei can sometimes be a challenge, as he can be very obstinate and stubborn when he wants to be, and this means that he is probably best suited to those with some level of experience in dog ownership. A determined dog with plenty of stamina, the Chinese Shar-Pei does need regular walks. The breed is a born hunter, and may see cats as prey as well as attacking livestock, so great care must be taken not to let him off the leash if you are out and about.

Lowchen



Known as the Little Lion Dog, the Lowchen is a dog with bags of character, plenty of spirit, and a lively and cheerful personality. These energetic little dogs make good family pets and companions, and are well suited to the inexperienced dog owner as well as the more experienced. This intelligent breed is quick to learn and eager to please, which makes training relatively easy. The Lowchen is a dog that is entertaining and fun to be around, but is also dignified, sensible, and peaceful. He thrives on the attention of his family, and has plenty of love and affection to shower upon his owners. Although the Lowchen loves to play and join in with all the family fun, he will also be content to simply snuggle up and relax with you.

These mild mannered dogs can sometimes lean towards timidity, and this means that early socialization is important in order to promote confidence and improve social skills. A well socialized Lowchen will get along well with children, providing that they are gentle and considerate, and will also get along well with other pets. With strangers many will be friendly and polite, although some may be timid or shy. Although the Lowchen is suitable for apartment living, he may be a keen barker and this could pose a problem in terms of noise. His tendency to announce visitors and raise the alarm makes him an effective watchdog. This is not a dog for those that have little time to devote to a pet, as he does need attention, love, and mental stimulation. His exercise requirements are low, although you should ensure that he has a safe and secured place to play or take him out for walks regularly.

Sussex Spaniel



The Sussex Spaniel is a friendly and placid dog, with a steady disposition and a certain charm about him. Suited to both experienced and inexperienced dog owners, the Sussex Spaniel makes for a delightful companion and family pet. He can be a stubborn and willful dog at times, and because of this owners need to be confident, assertive, yet positive in their approach. It is advisable that you provide your Sussex Spaniel with early socialization to promote a stable and confident temperament. His protective nature and tendency to bark to raise an alarm makes the Sussex Spaniel an effective watchdog. These dogs and intelligent and fairly quick to learn, but training can still prove a challenge because of the stubbornness of some of these dogs. Housebreaking can also be difficult with some Sussex Spaniels.

The Sussex Spaniel does thrive on the love and affection of his owner, and likes to get involved in activities both indoors and outdoors. These are not dogs that like to be neglected, and this could lead to barking and howling. You will also need to be watchful with regards to his eating habits, as many Sussex Spaniels can be extremely fussy eaters. The Sussex Spaniel does not like to be handled roughly and is best suited around older, gentler children. He will usually be cautious around strangers at first, but this should later turn into polite acceptance. He tends to be friendly with other animals, but can be bossy, particularly with strange dogs. The Sussex Spaniel has moderate energy levels, and will require a fair amount of exercise, preferably with plenty of interactive play.

Kuvasz



The Kuvasz is a dog that is very loyal and protective, and has plenty of courage, spirit, and determination. The Kuvasz will be very protective of adults, children, and pets in his own family, but can be very wary, distrustful, and overprotective when strangers - adults or children - are around. He can also be aggressive with strange animals in a bid to protect his family and his territory. Early socialization is important with the Kuvasz, and when it comes to training he is a quick learner and is intelligent. However, he can be dominant and can get bored easily, and is best suited to an experienced dog owners who can be assertive, confident, and provide plenty of variety when it comes to physical and mental stimulation.

The deep bark and protective nature of this breed makes the Kuvasz an effective watchdog. This is an energetic breed, and it is important to ensure that he gets daily walks and also has a secured and safe area in which to play and run. This is not a dog that is suited to enclosed environments and apartment living, nor is he suited to those that cannot establish themselves as the leader. However, with the right owner and the right environment, he can make a loyal, devoted, and loving family pet.


Komondor



A loyal, protective, and dignified breed, the Komondor is a sensible and attentive dog. He is devoted to his own family, and is very protective of his owners, household children, and even household pets. However, this can mean that he is over-protective when strangers - adults or children - or strange animals are around, so early socialization and supervision is required. These dogs are very independent and self reliant, as these traits are in their nature. As puppies they can be quite energetic and playful, and although they do calm down as they mature, they still remain fast and agile. As adults these dogs have a very deep bark, which although adds to his watchdog abilities can be disturbing late at night.

The Komondor does have a tendency to get bored with routine, and needs a variety of mental and physical stimulation. These huge dogs are not suited to apartment life, and need to have a secured, safe area in which to exercise. These dogs can be very territorial and determined, and training can be difficult - the Komondor is best suited to someone with experience of dog ownership and training. This is a breed that is suited to those with plenty of time to commit to their pet, as they need ongoing training as well as being high maintenance in terms of grooming. He also needs an owner who is confident and assertive, yet positive, as otherwise he can become difficult to control.

Shiba Inu



An independent, strong minded, and hardworking dog, the Shiba Inu is a creature with plenty of spirit and courage. These are not clingy dogs and are not overly demanding, but he can be willful and stubborn, making him best suited to those with experience of dog ownership. The Shiba Inu is adept and digging and climbing, and is a confirmed pursuer of just about anything that crosses his path - it is essential that he is therefore in a safe and secured area whenever he is not on a leash. Very fast and agile, the Shiba Inu is an intelligent dog and thrives on interaction and mental stimulation. These dogs can be possessive and manipulative when given half the chance, and they will need to be trained with a firm yet positive method. Early socialization is recommended with the Shiba Inu to promote a more stable temperament.

When brought up with them the Shiba Inu tends to get along well with children, although he does not take well to be handled roughly or teased. They can be aggressive around same sex dogs, and their high prey drive means that they may chase smaller animals. The Shiba Inu is also very territorial and will be suspicious of strangers, which adds to his watchdog abilities. The bark of the Shiba Inu can sometimes resemble and yodel and in some cases even a shriek. They do need a fair amount of exercise, and when not on a leash this should be provided in a very safe, secure area to prevent him from escaping. With proper socialization and training the Shiba Inu can make a loyal, loving, and entertaining pet and companions, but is not for the weak willed or for those with little time to dedicate to a pet.

Black Russian Terrier



The Black Russian Terrier is an eager, fun-loving, and intelligent dog, and loves to be around humans and be part of the action. Very observant and brave the Black Russian Terrier likes to please his owners and is a very willing creature. Like most other terriers, this dog does have something of a stubborn breed, and whilst his intelligence and eagerness can make work, play, and training fun, his stubborn streak can slow things down a little. He has a curious nature and likes to explore, so he should not be left loose outside of a secured area. These dogs can be dominant at times, but they are known to be easy to house break.

The Black Russian Terrier will usually get on well with children, and can be fascinated by them, However, do remember that these dogs are large, and he may inadvertently knock down a smaller child in play. These dogs can be dominant around other dogs that are not part of the household, but are generally okay with other pets in the household. The protective nature of the Black Russian Terrier makes him a good watchdog, but means that he will often be wary around strangers. These dogs can learn quickly but can sometimes be a little slow when it comes to being mature! These dogs are well suited to confident dog owners that have plenty of time and attention to devote to their pet.

Belgian Tervuren


The Belgian Tervuren is a graceful and agile dog with a well balanced personality. These dogs have plenty of power and energy, and are alert and intelligent. You will find that the Belgian Tervuren makes a loyal and devoted pet. Training should not prove difficult, as this is an intelligent dog with a high learning rate and an eagerness to please. The Belgian Tervuren is not the right choice of those with little time to dedicate to a pet, as they can get easily bored if neglected, and this can lead to behavioral problems. You should provide your Belgian Tervuren with plenty of exercise, as well as mental stimulation, to reduce the risk of boredom. Consistent training and early socialization is important with this breed in order to promote a more stable, confident personality. They can be very suspicious, and are wary around strangers. The strong herding instincts of the Belgian Tervuren means that he may try and herd people and animals by nipping at them.

This breed has a very protective streak, and this makes him a good watchdog. He tends to get along well with older, gentle children, and should be okay with other household pets when properly socialized. Care should be taken around smaller pets such as cats and rabbits, as the Belgian Tervuren may see them as prey. This breed is best suited to those with more experience in dog ownership, as he can be stubborn and something of a challenge when it comes to training. However, for the right owner or family - those that enjoy an active lifestyle and have a confident manner - this breed can make a wonderful pet and companion.

Puli



Very intelligent and quick to learn, the Puli is a lively and spirited animal. These dogs have bags of energy and enthusiasm, and are fun loving, sociable, and sweet natured. He is agile, and has plenty of stamina. However, he can be very stubborn, overly confident, and very demanding, which can make training something of a challenge. This breed is best suited to a confident and assertive owner with experience of dog training and ownership. He is also very quick on his feet, and has an inquisitive nature, which means that his play or exercise area should be safe and secure. This shaggy and lovable creature has a cheerful disposition, and enjoys spending time with his owners - he is not for the inactive, however, as he does need regular exercise.

The Puli gets along well with older, gentle children, as well as with other animals. However, beware his herding instincts, as he will try and herd people and pets into groups. He should also not be trusted around smaller creatures that run around, as his instincts will result in him chasing them. When it comes to strangers the Puli can be a wary dog. Early socialization is recommended with this breed in order to promote a stable temperament. His suspicion does make him an effective watchdog. Although these dogs can be a little naughty and mischievous, as well as extremely lively and demanding, they can make wonderful family pets for those with the time and attention to devote to them - as well as the confidence to handle them!

Otterhound



The Otterhound is a dog that is very independent and strong minded, yet is also extremely affectionate and loving. These dogs love to play and exercise, and should be in an environment where there is plenty of space to enjoy activity. He also needs to be with a family that has the time to commit to a pet. These dogs love to get involved with family activities, and especially love to swim. Determined and enthusiastic, the Otterhound will go to any lengths to investigate a scent, and his keen sense of smell means that he picks up on scents with the greatest of ease. This does mean that he should be kept in a safe and secure area at all times when not on a leash, as otherwise his dedication to following a scent could lead him into danger.

The Otterhound can be both loud in terms of his deep bark, and messy, which means that he is not ideally suited to those that like their homes to be spick and span all of the time. His bark does mean that this dog can make an effective watchdog. His stubborn and independent streak can make training something of a challenge, and this breed is best suited to those with some experience of dog ownership and training. The Otterhound gets along well with children, and with proper socialization should get along okay with other dogs - he should be socialized early on with cats and should not be trusted with smaller animals, as he does have strong hunting instincts. With strangers the reaction of the Otterhound can vary, and some may be reserved whereas others may be friendly. The Otterhound is quite a rare breed, and therefore those looking for a puppy may have quite a wait.

Belgian Malinois



The Belgian Malinois is a dog that is keen, responsive, and responsible, and although he can be serious much of the time he can also have a very playful and mischievous streak. These dogs are attentive and sensitive, but some can be stubborn, which can make them more suited to experienced dog owners than to novice dog owners. These dogs are fine around older, more considerate children and children that it has been raised with, and most will be okay with other pets providing they are properly introduced and socialized. They can also be very protective animals, and some are prone to developing obsessive behavior if they are neglected and become bored.

You should make sure that the Belgian Malinois is given plenty of attention and kept buys, as otherwise boredom can quickly set in. He enjoys an array of exercise activities such as hiking or running, and he does need plenty of mental stimulation. When it comes to strangers the Belgian Malinois can be quite reserved. Some can be quite shy, and others suspicious. Owners should ensure that pets are carefully introduced to ensure that he realizes that smaller animals are not prey. You will need to reinforce leadership through effective training with this breed. He is a highly intelligent dog that is easy to train.

Bearded Collie




The Bearded Collie is a happy-go-lucky, carefree dog with plenty of life and energy, and a good natured disposition. He has an inquisitive nature, and loves getting involved in a range of activities including herding, agility, hiking, and protecting. This is not a dog that you should neglect when it comes to play and attention, as the Bearded Collie can get easily bored and this can lead to destructive behavior. These dogs have a sweet nature, but without proper socialization can become timid. Some Bearded Collies can be very independent and stubborn, so this should be taken into consideration when training, although these dogs are still well suited to both inexperienced and experienced dog owners.

The Bearded Collie is good with children, and is fine in households with older children. However, this breed can be very energetic and boisterous at times, and this could make it a little difficult to have around younger children. The Bearded Collie is also a herder by nature, Friendly and active, the Bearded Collie is a great companion pet that will get along well with other pets, and although he can be reserved around strangers to begin with will soon start to welcome them.

 

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