Machine Name
dog
Airedale Terrier
Airedale Terrier
Airedale Terrier

The largest of the terrier breeds, the Airedale Terrier originated in the Valley of Aire in England, where factory workers bred him to be a good hunter, a strong, intelligent guard dog and a companion. The Airedale Terrier is a sturdy breed with a hard, wiry coat that became known as a “jack of all trades” doing police work, rodent control and hunting game. Airedales need grooming several times a year plus weekly brushing.

DID YOU KNOW? Among famous Airedale Terrier owners are Presidents Woodrow Wilson, Warren Harding and Calvin Coolidge.

 

The need-to-know

 

  • Dog suitable for owners with some experience
  • Some training required
  • Enjoys active walks
  • Enjoys walking one to two hours a day
  • Large dog
  • Minimum drool
  • Requires grooming every other day
  • Non hypoallergenic breed
  • Chatty and vocal dog
  • Guard dog. Barks and alerts
  • May require training to live with other pets
  • May require training to live with kids

 

Living Considerations
 Good with older children, not hypoallergenic, not suitable for apartment living
Size
 Medium
Height
 Males - 59 centimetres at the shoulders, Females - slightly less tall
Weight
 Males – 22 to 27 kilograms, Females – 18 to 21 kilograms
Coat
 Dense and wiry
Energy
 High
Colour
 Tan and black, tan and grizzle
Activities
 Conformation, Obedience, Agility, Hunting Tests, Police Work
Indoor/Outdoor
 Both
Personality

In common with most terrier dog breeds, the Airedale dog is confident, bold and outgoing. They are loyal, friendly, curious, energetic dogs who are fun loving, eager and tireless. They are devoted to their family and will protect them if they feel it is necessary. Airedale Terriers can sometimes be reserved with strangers and may not be entirely friendly to unknown dogs. While mostly kind and docile, they are the kind of plucky, fearless dogs that while they might not start a fight, will always finish one. A typical terrier, they may not be reliable with small furry animals and cats.

 

History and Origins

Country of Origin: England

 

Known as the ‘king of the terriers’ the hardy Airedale Terrier was created in the 19th century in the Aire, Wharfe and Calder river valleys of Yorkshire by hunters who wanted a terrier to help protect the fishermen’s catches from otters. They were developed from crosses from the now extinct Black and Tan Terrier to give them the rough coat, the Otterhound to give them the nose, and the Bull Terrier to give them tenacity. While they were primarily developed as otter hunters, they quickly found other jobs including as a duck-catcher, a ratter, a gun dog, a guard dog, an army messenger dog and even a transport police patrol dog.

 

Nutrition and Feeding

Airedale Terriers need to have a balanced diet including the main nutrient groups and a constant supply of fresh water. It's important to conduct regular body condition scores to ensure you keep your dog in ideal shape and remember to feed him at least twice daily and in accordance with the feeding guidelines of his particular food. The Airedale dog breed is prone to bloating and stomach problems. Smaller, more frequent meals can help minimise this risk.

Exercise

An active dog, the Airedale breed needs a moderate amount of dog exercise (1 to 2 hours daily), including dog games and training, to prevent boredom and to keep him fit and healthy.

Other Information

Health and common issues

 

The Airedale dog is generally a hardy breed. As with many breeds, they can suffer from hip dysplasia (a condition that can lead to mobility problems). Hip scoring of dogs prior to breeding is therefore important.

 

Space requirements

 

The Airedale Terrier is a large dog who enjoys space and so needs a large-ish house and garden - plus space to exercise so they are best in a rural environment.

 

Training airedale terriers

 

The Airedale is a joy to train and they love working with their owners although they do need to be kept motivated with reward-based dog training and plenty of variety. They can excel at dog sports such as agility and can become experts at scent work and love to have a job to do. They do need early and ongoing socialisation to ensure they stay reliable around other dogs and should be taught a strong recall.

 

Best family dog breeds

 

Airedales are generally gentle with children although may be too big for younger ones. They are best suited to active families with older children. While many dogs are traditionally thought of as being good with children, all dogs and children need to be taught to get on with each other and be safe together. Even so, dogs and young children should never be left alone together and adults should supervise all interactions between them.

 

Did you know?

 

Airedales have been extremely popular with US Presidents - and in fact three presidents in a row all had Airedales called Davie, Laddie Boy and Paul Pry respectively.

 

Afghan Hound
Afghan Hound
Afghan Hound

A dignified, aloof breed often considered an aristocrat, the Afghan Hound has a happy temperament and makes an excellent family companion. Little is known about the Afghan Hound’s history before the 19th century when he was discovered in Afghanistan. A large breed, the Afghan Hound requires regular exercise, and his long, silky coat needs regular grooming.

DID YOU KNOW? In April 2005 in Korea, an Afghan Hound called “Snuppy” became the world’s first successful dog clone.

ALSO KNOWN AS: Kuchi Hound, T?z?, Balkh Hound Baluchi Hound, Barutzy Hound, Shalgar Hound, Kabul Hound, Galanday Hound, Or sometimes incorrectly African Hound.

 

The need-to-know

 

  • Dog suitable for owners with some experience
  • Extra training required
  • Enjoys active walks
  • Large dog
  • Minimum drool
  • Requires grooming daily
  • Non hypoallergenic breed
  • Chatty and vocal dog
  • Not a guard dog
  • May require training to live with other pets
  • May require training to live with kids

 

Living Considerations
 Good with older children, suitable for apartment living, not hypoallergenic
Size
 Medium
Height
 63.5 to 69 centimetres at the shoulders
Weight
 22 to 27 kilograms
Coat
 Long
Energy
 High
Colour
 Any colour
Activities
 Agility, Conformation, Hunting, Lure Coursing, Racing, Rally Obedience
Indoor/Outdoor
 Both
Personality

Often aloof with strangers, early socialisation is a must for this regal dog, as is early puppy training. With their family and those they know, there’s no hint of standoffishness – they are wonderfully loyal and loving - and a bit of a clown.

 

History and Origins

Country of Origin: Afghanistan

 

Possibly the most glamourous of the sighthounds, the Afghan is probably a descendant of the Saluki brought to Afghanistan from Persia. As the climate in Afghanistan can be punishing - especially in the mountains, the dogs developed a longer coat as protection as they worked pursuing a variety of prey of all sizes including hare, gazelles, wolves and even snow leopards.The dogs were highly prized by the Afghan nomads who would gather together every year for a festival to celebrate their dogs and would dress them with traditional necklaces and flowers.The earliest Afghans appeared in the UK in the 1920s but thanks to their glamorous appearance, they soon became extremely popular.

 

Nutrition and Feeding

Large breed dogs benefit from a different balance of nutrients including minerals and vitamins compared to smaller-breed dogs. Afghan Hounds are prone to bloating and stomach problems; smaller, more frequent meals can help minimise this risk.

Exercise

An adult Afghan Hound needs a moderate amount of exercise (1-2 hours) but does need the opportunity for free running.

Other Information

Health and common issues

 

The Afghan dog breed is generally healthy and robust, with few breed specific problems commonly occurring. The breed club monitor the health of the breed carefully and should be contacted for the most up-to-date information and details of any DNA or additional testing they recommend. Breed Clubs can be found on the Kennel Club website.

 

Space requirements

 

A large dog, the Afghan appreciates space - both indoor and outdoors. Most importantly however is having access to safe, secure areas to run that are far from roads or any other hazards.

 

Training afghan hounds

 

Like most sighthounds, Afghans rather look down on the whole idea of training but early socialisation is important - as is training them to walk on a lead. It is worth putting the effort into training a good recall - although it shouldn’t be relied upon if a squirrel is spotted! Once an Afghan is enjoying their thrill of the chase - or even just of running free - all thoughts of recall leave their minds. If they are to live with cats, puppies should come from a breeder who has raised them together - or else time and care must be taken. They may never be reliable with strange cats or other small animals.

 

Best family dog breeds

 

The Afghan Hound makes a good family dog - although prefers a quiet home with constant company and so they are better with older sensible children. While many dogs are traditionally thought of as being good with children, all dogs and children need to be taught to get on with and respect each other, and be safe together. Even so, dogs and young children should never be left alone together and adults should supervise all interactions between them.

 

Did you know?

 

  • Given their speed, Afghan Hounds have been tried out on traditional greyhound tracks - but without much success. Being smart and resourceful they see no point in running round the outside of the track when they can just cut across the middle and head the prey off without any effort.
  • The Afghan Hound is one of the oldest dog breeds and legend has it that this breed was one of the animals rescued on Noah’s Ark.
  • This is one of the fastest ever dog breeds and can reach speeds up to 40mph.
  • Afghan Hounds were one of Picasso’s favourite dog breeds.
  • They have scent glands in their cheeks which produces a musky odour which is said to be quite pleasant!

 

affenpinscher
affenpinscher
Affenpinscher

Fun-loving and sometimes mischievous, the Affenpinscher is an ancient toy breed from central Europe. With the face and impish nature of a monkey, this peppy breed is extremely loyal and affectionate toward his family, though fearless toward aggressors. Ideal for apartments, his exercise requirements can be satisfied with indoor play, but he also enjoys daily walks. The Affenpinscher’s wiry, hypoallergenic coat should be brushed twice a week and trimmed twice a year.

DID YOU KNOW? Affenpinscher means "Monkey Terrier" in German. In Central Europe where he originated, the Affenpinscher was called “little devil with a moustache.”

ALSO KNOWN AS: African Terrier

 

The need-to-know

 

  • Dog suitable for non-experienced owners
  • Basic training required
  • Enjoys active walks
  • Enjoys walking half an hour a day
  • Small dog
  • Minimum drool
  • Requires grooming once a week
  • Hypoallergenic breed
  • Chatty and vocal dog
  • Not a guard dog
  • May require training to live with other pets
  • May require training to live with kids

 

Living Considerations
 Good with older children, suitable for apartment living, hypoallergenic
Size
Toy
Height
 24 to 30 centimetres at the withers
Weight
 2.5 to 4.5 kilograms
Coat
Short
Energy
Medium
Colour
 Usually black, but also gray, silver, red, beige or black-and-tan
Activities
 Conformation, Obedience
Indoor/Outdoor
 Both
Personality

Lively, self-confident, strong willed and fearless, yet charming and comical, it is easy to see why instead of vanishing into the melting pot of working breeds, the Affenpinscher was promoted to cherished pet! Their sparkling eyes and monkey-whiskered face are irresistible and they are very affectionate with their owners, though often a little wary of strangers.


 

Despite their diminutive stature, the Affenpinscher still believes he is a working terrier at times, so does require some training!


 

 

History and Origins

Country of Origin:  Germany

 

The Affenpinscher started out as a ratting, vermin-control dog dating back to the 17th century. Their appealing round eyes, rough coat and monkey-like expression and endearing personality quicklyearned them something of an upgrade from working dog to companion breed, which in turn led to their refinement, introduction to the show ring and their survival today. While the origins of the breed are not certain, it has been suggested that they sprung from crossing German Pinschers with imported flat-faced oriental breeds.  When the breed nearly died out are thesecond world war, the remaining few dogs were crossed with the Griffon Bruxellois to re-establish the breed and give us the appealing and enchanting breed we know today.

 

Nutrition and Feeding

Toy dogs such as the Affenpinscher have a fast metabolism, meaning they burn energy at a high rate, although their small stomachs mean that they must eat little and often. Small-breed foods are specifically designed with appropriate levels of key nutrients and smaller kibble sizes to suit smaller mouths. This also encourages chewing and improves digestion. Discover more about how to offer your dog a balanced diet with our easy-to-follow guide.

Exercise

Around half an hour of dog exercise will be ample, but the Affenpinscher is an active dog. If fit and healthy, will take long walks and runs, but is small enough to be carried easily if an outing proves too much. Easily entertained at home or within a small garden should the need arise, it is important to keep the Affens brain well exercised with training, puzzles and games.

Other Information

Health and common issues

 

The Affenpinscher dog breed is generally healthy. However, like many small dog breeds, they can suffer from kneecaps that may temporarily slip out of place (luxating patellas), a hip condition and a windpipe problem. Check the breed club for the most up to date health information.

 

Space requirements

 

Due to their tiny size the Affenpinscher can live in any size of home. A secure garden is vital as this little breed can fit through the smallest of gaps or determinedly dig under to get to wherever they want to be. As long they are well socialised and taught to ignore noise, the Affenpinscher can live in town, city or countryside.

 

Training affenpinscher

 

The Affenpinscher is clever and will enjoy dog training – and a chance to work with their owner. They are fun and easy to train and this is a breed who can easily turn their paw to trick training, mini agility and can generally have a go at most doggy sports and activities.

 

Best family dog breeds

 

Suitable for older children and teenagers, the Affenpinscher is a little too small and easily underfoot to be safe around very young children. Excellent for the quiet family, child-free homes, but caution is required around cats as the Affen does love a chase and a slap from a claw-filled paw is a high risk to those large eyes! While many dogs are traditionally thought of as being good with children, all dogs and children need to be taught to get on with each other and be safe together. Even so, dogs and young children should never be left alone together and adults should supervise all interactions between them.

 

Did you know?

 

  • In France the breed is described as the ‘diablotin moustachu’, which translates to ‘moustached devil’ which should give you some idea of the Affenpinschers character as well as their appearance!
  • In Germany the first examples of the breed were known as ‘Zwergaffenpinscher’ which literally translates to ‘little-monkey-dog’, again, a hint towards their character as well as their looks!

 

Vizsla

A versatile hunter from Hungary, the Vizsla is an active, energetic dog with great power, drive and determination. Lively, affectionate and tractable, the Vizsla thrives with an active family. Gentle-mannered and sensitive yet fearless and protective, the breed excels as a watch and guard dog. The Vizsla trains easily. His coat is low maintenance.

DID YOU KNOW? The Vizsla was all but extinct by the end of World War I.

ALSO KNOWN AS: Hungarian Vizsla, Hungarian Pointer, Magyar Vizsla

 

The need-to-know

 

  • Dog suitable for non-experienced owners
  • Basic training required
  • Enjoys active walks
  • Enjoys walking an hour a day
  • Medium dog
  • Minimum drool
  • Requires grooming once a week
  • Non hypoallergenic breed
  • Quiet dog
  • Guard dog. Barks and alerts
  • May require training to live with other pets
  • Great family dog
Living Considerations
Good with children, not hypoallergenic, not suitable for apartment living
Size
Medium
Height
Males – 56 to 61 centimetres at the shoulders, Females – 53 to 58.5 centimetres at the withers
Weight
Males – 20 to 29 kilograms Females – 18 to 25 kilograms
Coat
Short
Energy
High
Colour
Golden rust in varying shades with lighter shadings over the sides of the neck and shoulders
Activities
Agility, Obedience, Field Trials, Rally Obedience
Indoor/Outdoor
Both
Toy Fox Terrier

The Toy Fox Terrier has a feisty, animated personality packaged in a small, elegant, nimble body. The breed is sociable and friendly, making him a wonderful family companion. A worthy watchdog, he also is fearless, loyal and alert. The Toy Fox Terrier is easy to care for, requiring minimal exercise. Weekly brushing and occasional baths are required for his fine, satiny coat.

DID YOU KNOW? The Toy Fox Terrier originated in the 1930s to create a milder, calmer version of the Fox Terrier. This American breed was developed from crossing the Fox Terrier and various toy breeds, such as the Miniature Pinscher, Italian Greyhound and Chihuahua. The breed is commonly called the “Amertoy.”

ALSO KNOWN AS: American Toy Terrier, Amertoy

 

The need-to-know

 

  • Dog suitable for non-experienced owners
  • Basic training required
  • Enjoys gentle walks
  • Enjoys walking half an hour a day
  • Little toy dog
  • Minimum drool
  • Requires grooming every other day
  • Non hypoallergenic breed
  • Very vocal dog
  • Not a guard dog
  • Great with other pets
  • Great family dog
Living Considerations
Good with older children, not hypoallergenic, suitable for apartment living
Size
Toy
Height
21.5 to 29 centimetres
Weight
3.5 to 7 kilograms
Coat
Short
Energy
High
Colour
White and black, white and tan, white black and tan, or white chocolate and tan
Activities
Conformation, Obedience, Agility
Indoor/Outdoor
Indoor
Spinone Italiano

A versatile hunting breed, the Spinone Italiano is a robust, powerful, muscular dog known for his superior nose, soft mouth and thick, wavy coat, which protects him from extreme temperatures. In the field, he is determined and tireless, but at home, this naturally cautious dog is sweet and calm. The affectionate Spinone Italiano is happiest when near his human companions. He requires daily exercise.

DID YOU KNOW? This ancient breed originated in northern Italy as early as 500 B.C. Throughout history, the Spinone Italiano has also been called the Italian Pointer, Spinone, Italian Spinone, Italian Coarsehaired Pointer, and Italian Griffon. “Bella” and “Tris” were the first-known Spinone Italianos in the U.S. They were imported in 1931 by Dr. Nicola Gigante.

ALSO KNOWN AS: Spinone, Italian Spinone, Italian Griffon, Italian Wire-haired Pointer, Italian Coarsehaired Pointer

 

The need-to-know

 

  • Dog suitable for non-experienced owners
  • Basic training required
  • Enjoys gentle walks
  • Enjoys walking half an hour a day
  • Large dog
  • Some drool
  • Requires grooming once a week
  • Non hypoallergenic breed
  • Chatty and vocal dog
  • Not a guard dog
  • Great with other pets
  • Great family dog
Living Considerations
Good with children, not hypoallergenic, suitable for apartment living if adequately exercised
Size
Large
Height
Males – 58.5 to 69 centimetres at the withers, Females – 56 to 63.5 centimetres at the withers
Weight
Males – 32 to 36.5 kilograms, Females – 28 to 32 kilograms
Coat
Wiry
Energy
Medium
Colour
Brown-roan, orange-roan, white, or white and orange with brown or orange markings
Activities
Conformation, Obedience, Agility, Therapy, Hunting Tests, Tracking, Field Trials
Indoor/Outdoor
Both
Silky Terrier

The friendly, lively Silky Terrier has a true terrier temperament with a zest for life. Originally bred to hunt vermin, this dog is quick and alert with a long, moderately low set body. He is playful, inquisitive and eager to please, making him an exceptional companion. The Silky Terrier requires little exercise but enjoys an occasional game of fetch or an outdoor walk. His fine, smooth coat must be brushed and bathed regularly.

DID YOU KNOW? In the 1800s, Yorkshire Terriers from England were imported to Australia and bred to Australian Terriers to improve the Australian Terrier’s coat colour. The end result was a type of dog known today as the Silky Terrier

ALSO KNOWN AS: Australian Silky Terrier, Silky

 

The need-to-know

 

  • Dog suitable for non-experienced owners
  • Basic training required
  • Enjoys gentle walks
  • Enjoys walking half an hour a day
  • Little toy dog
  • Minimum drool
  • Requires grooming daily
  • Non hypoallergenic breed
  • Chatty and vocal dog
  • Not a guard dog
  • May require training to live with other pets
  • Great family dog
Living Considerations
Good with older children, not hypoallergenic, suitable for apartment living if adequately exercised
Size
Toy
Height
23 to 25 centimetres
Weight
4 to 5 kilograms
Coat
Puffy double coat
Energy
Medium-long
Colour
Black and tan, blue and tan, blue-silver and tan, grey and tan, silver and tan, or silver-black and tan
Activities
Conformation, Agility, Earthdog Trials
Indoor/Outdoor
Both
Shiba Inu

The bold, spirited Shiba Inu is a Japanese breed originally developed to hunt birds and small game on mountainous terrain. His small, dense body is marked by prick ears and a curled tail on a stunning soft, thick double coat, which should be brushed regularly. Independent, loyal and affectionate, he excels as a watchdog and companion. Moderate exercise from leash walks or in a fenced yard is a must for this active, agile breed.

DID YOU KNOW? In Japanese, the word “shiba” means “brushwood,” describing the breed’s hunting grounds, while “inu” means “dog.” The Shiba Inu is commonly referred to as the “Little Brushwood Dog.”

ALSO KNOWN AS: AJapanese Shiba Inu, Japanese Small Size Dog, Shiba Ken

 

The need-to-know

 

  • Dog suitable for non-experienced owners
  • Basic training required
  • Enjoys gentle walks
  • Enjoys walking half an hour a day
  • Small dog
  • Minimum drool
  • Requires grooming once a week
  • Non hypoallergenic breed
  • Chatty and vocal dog
  • Not a guard dog
  • May require training to live with other pets
  • Great family dog
Living Considerations
Good with children, not hypoallergenic, suitable for apartment living if adequately exercised
Size
Small
Height
Males – 37 to 42 centimetres, Females – 34 to 39 centimetres
Weight
8 to 10 kilograms
Energy
Medium
Colour
Black and tan, cream, red, or red sesame with white markings
Activities
Conformation, Agility, Hunting, Tracking
Indoor/Outdoor
Both
Pyrenean Shepherd

Originally bred to herd sheep in the French Pyrenees Mountains, the Pyrenean Shepherd is a powerful dog with a small, lean body and unique triangular head. The breed has two varieties: Rough-Faced and Smooth-Faced. An ideal companion, the Pyrenean Shepherd is alert, sensitive and intelligent. This energetic, cheerful dog thrives on having a job to do and is a perfect fit for active families.

DID YOU KNOW? An athletic breed with great stamina, the Pyrenean Shepherd is fondly called “Pyr Shep.” This breed can cover up to 25 miles a day working alongside a shepherd or farmer. Two of these vigorous dogs are capable of herding a flock of 1,000 sheep. Pyrenean Shepherd were used as couriers, guards and search-and-rescue dogs during World War I.

ALSO KNOWN AS: Berger des Pyrénées, Petit Berger, Pyrenees Sheepdog

 

The need-to-know

 

  • Dog suitable for non-experienced owners
  • Basic training required
  • Enjoys gentle walks
  • Enjoys walking half an hour a day
  • Small dog
  • Some drool
  • Requires grooming every other day
  • Non hypoallergenic breed
  • Chatty and vocal dog
  • Not a guard dog
  • Great with other pets
  • May require training to live with kids
Living Considerations
Good with children if properly trained, not hypoallergenic, not suitable for apartment living if adequately exercised
Size
Small
Height
Rough-Faced – 38 to 47 centimetres at the withers, Smooth-Faced – 39 to 53 centimetres at the withers
Weight
Males – 7 to 16 kilograms, Females – 7 to 14.5 kilograms
Coat
Rough-Faced – Long or demi-long; Smooth-Faced – Short
Energy
High
Colour
Black, black and white, blue merle, brindle, brindle merle, fawn, fawn merle, grey, slate grey, or white
Activities
Conformation, Herding, Search and Rescue, Agility, Obedience, Tracking, Flyball, Hearing Assistant
Indoor/Outdoor
Both
Puli

An ancient Hungarian herding dog, the spirited Puli is distinguished by his unique, wooly, corded coat that covers his compact body and requires extensive grooming. The breed is affectionate, alert and protective, making him an ideal family companion and watchdog. Clever and intelligent, the Puli retains his playfulness throughout his life. This active breed needs moderate daily exercise.

DID YOU KNOW? The Puli is born with an uncorded coat. His cords begin to develop at 9 months of age and continue to grow until the Puli is 5 years old.

ALSO KNOWN AS: Hungarian Puli

 

The need-to-know

 

  • Dog suitable for non-experienced owners
  • Basic training required
  • Enjoys gentle walks
  • Enjoys walking half an hour a day
  • Medium dog
  • Some drool
  • Requires grooming daily
  • Non hypoallergenic breed
  • Chatty and vocal dog
  • Guard dog. Barks and alerts
  • May require training to live with other pets
  • Great family dog
Living Considerations
Good with children if properly trained, not hypoallergenic, suitable for apartment living if adequately exercised
Size
Medium
Height
Males – 43 centimetres at the withers, Females – 41 centimetres at the withers
Weight
11 to 18 kilograms
Energy
Medium
Colour
Black, silver, white, brown, cream, or rust
Activities
Conformation, Herding, Obedience, Agility, Tracking, Therapy
Indoor/Outdoor
Both
Dog