Blogger Buzz: Blogger integrates with Amazon Associates

http://latestdogs.blogspot.com/

West Highland Terrier

Appearance
West Highland Terriers are small compact, well-balanced and hardy looking terriers. They have shaggy eyebrows, a black nose, and small erect ears.
Coat
Westies have a double coat, the outer coat is straight, hard hair and the under coat is soft. Colour: always white with black pigmentation on the lips, eye-rims, the pads of the feet, and nails.
Weight: 15 – 22 lbs
Average Life Span: 13 – 15 yrs
Temperament
Westies are cheeky, confident, affectionate, stubborn and friendly little dogs. They are not well suited with small children as they do not like rough and tumble play. They would be best suited for a family with older children who would respect this little dogs attitude. Overall they do make excellent family companions. Westies are good with other dogs as long as there have been properly socialised as a puppy. However, they must be introduced to cats when they are young as they will chase them once they get older. They are alert and courageous, making them good guard dogs.
Training
Westies love to please people, so they do respond to training well. However they can be very stubborn so owners need to be firm and consistent in their training.
Grooming
They should be groomed once a week to keep the coat clean and free of tangles. When the dogs get dirty it is best to let the mud dry on them and brush it off when dry. The beard is a particular trouble spot for matting with this breed due to food, this area may need daily brushing.
Exercise
Westies need daily exercise to meet their medium energy requirements. They love to play with a ball. They also enjoy digging and some do wander off, so make sure the garden is well-fenced.
West Highland Terrier Health Issues
Cranio Mandibular Osteopathy (lion jaw): a painful though temporary inflammation of the jawbones in juveniles. Affected dogs will not eat because opening the mouth causes severe pain
Globoid Cell Leukodystrophy: a neurological disorder that results in the gradual destruction of white matter in the brain. Symptoms of GCL include: uncontrollable shaking, especially when exposed to bright greenish colors and/or slow pulsating light.
Hip dysplasia, a malformation of the hip joint resulting in a poor fit between the head of the femur bone and the hip socket. This condition can be alleviated by surgery, at some cost to dog and owner. Because dysplastic dogs often produce dysplastic puppies, buyers should ask if both the sire and the dam of the puppy in which they are interested have been rated clear of hip dysplasia. Do not take yes for an answer without seeing a certificate, and ask for a copy to take to your veterinarian.
Luxating Patella: Slipping knee joints (also referred to as luxating patellas, slipped stifles) are a common problem in small breeds. In this condition, the kneecap slips out of its groove and moves against the thighbone (femur) instead of along its natural groove. Although this has been found to be a heritable condition, small, active breeds are likely to aggravate it through the course of their natural activities (jumping up and down) around taller objects such as furniture.
Legg’s Perthes Disease (commonly mistaken for hip dysplasia) is due to the death of the head of the femur bone. This causes wearing and promotes arthritic changes. Therefore, after the condition has progressed for some time it is difficult to diagnose whether the resulting degenerated joint is a manifestation of hip dysplasia or Legg’s Perthes. This condition is congenital and has no known cure. The accompanying pain and arthritic changes can be controlled with steroids.
Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA) is a hereditary disease of the eye that has been identified in this breed. PRA is a blanket term for many types of retinal diseases, all of which result in blindness. All Siberians, regardless of age or breeding status, should be examined yearly by a member of the Veterinary Opthalmologists.
Juvenile cataracts: a condition of opacity of the ocular lens causing total or some degree of blindness with an early onset.
West Highland Terrier History
West Highland Terriers are essentially originated from white Cairn Terriers, who occasionally whelped white puppies naturally, or white Scottish Terriers. In Argyll (or Poltalloch) in Scotland in the 1800s, Colonel Malcolm and his family bred these white dogs to develop a new breed. The white coat made them highly visible when hunting on the Scottish moors and easily distinguished them from their game. The “Westie” was bred to be small enough to fit between rocks and small passageways typical of fox dens in the Scottish countryside. The tail of the “Westie” is traditionally longer and straighter than most small dogs, because of their instinct to dive headlong into any fox/rabbit hole. They would often find themselves stuck in these holes and the tail proved to be a useful for their owners to hold on to and pull them out.
Originally the breed was known as Poltalloch Terriers, although they were also known as Roseneath Terriers, White Roseneath Terriers, and at the end of the 19th century, briefly as a white variety of the Scottish Terrier.

Vizsla

KC)
Appearance
The Hungarian Vizsla is one of only 7 recognised breeds that hunt, point and retrieve (HPR). Hungarian Vizsla’s are all-purpose gundogs who combine an excellent nose with stable pointing, good retrieving, and a positive enjoyment of working in water. They have great stamina and are happy to work in all weathers. Hungarian Vizsla’s are medium, active, and noble looking dogs.
Coat
This dog comes in two coat types: smooth or wire-haired. Both coat types are recognised as seperate breeds. The smooth coat is short, straight, dense, smooth and shiny.The wire coat is harsh and close fitting, with an undercoat, the coat forms a ‘beard’ on the chin and prominent ‘eyebrows’. Colours include solid russet gold. The wire haired vizsla is slightly more heavier boned than the smooth haired vizsla

wire haired

Weight: 20 – 30kg
Average Life Span: 9 – 15 years
Temperament
Good with children Hungarian Vizsla’s make great family companions. Very affectionate and loyal and crave human attention, hungarian vizsal’s are not suited to live in kennels. They would be perfect for an active family as they have lots of energy. Vizslas are excellent swimmers and often swim in pools if one is available.
Training
Hungarian Vizsla’s are intelligent and eager to learn, typical of the gundog breeds, meaning they are easy to train. Training must be gentle as these dogs are sensitive.
Grooming
Smooth Haired Vizla’ s require minimum grooming, weekly brushing to remove dead hairs will keep the coat healthy. The wire coat vizsla will need more regular brushing and to be hand plucked to remove loose and dead hair.
Exercise
Hungarian vizsla’s need long daily walks and lots of mental stimulation to keep them healthy and happy. A bored hungarain Vizsla can become destructive.
Vizsla Health Issues
Hip dysplasia: a malformation of the hip joint resulting in a poor fit between the head of the femur bone and the hip socket. This condition can be alleviated by surgery, at some cost to dog and owner. Because dysplastic dogs often produce dysplastic puppies, buyers should ask if both the sire and the dam of the puppy in which they are interested have been rated clear of hip dysplasia. Do not take yes for an answer without seeing a certificate, and ask for a copy to take to your veterinarian.
Von Wille Brand’s Disease: is an autosomally (not sex-linked) inherited bleeding disorder with a prolonged bleeding time (somewhat similar to hemophilia in humans) and a mild to severe factor IX deficiency. A DNA test for vWD is now available. Carrier-to-carrier breedings, in theory, will produce puppies that are 25% clear, 50% carriers, and 25% affected. Ideally, only clear-to-clear or clear-to-carrier should occur, so that no puppies will be affected. Not all dogs that are vWD affected will have severe bleeding problems, but they ARE at risk whenever they need to have surgery or have an accident. Some unlucky affected dogs will actually bleed out from a needle stick or minor wound.
Epilepsy is a seizure disorder which has been found in this breed. Seizures vary between a far-away look or twitching in one part of the face to your pet falling on his side, barking, gnashing his teeth, urinating, defecating and paddling his limbs. Seizures usually appear suddenly and end spontaneously, and can last from seconds to minutes. The disorder has no known cause, however it is important for your veterinarian to determine your pets general health and make sure there is no underlying disease that may be causing the seizures. Treatment can include anticonvulsant medications. Always ask your vet for advice.
Hypothyroidism: an endocrine disease that results in the abnormally low production of thyroid hormones. The symptoms of hypothyroidism include lethargy, mental depression, weight gain and a tendency to seek out warm places. Hypothyroidism can also affect the coat and skin, causing hair loss and excessive dandruff.
Endotropin: is a medical condition in which the eyelids fold inward. It is very uncomfortable, as the eyelashes rub against the eyeball constantly. Entropion is usually caused by genetic factors and may be congenital. Trachoma infection may cause scarring of the inner eyelid, which may cause entropion.Treatment is a simple surgery in which excess skin of the outer lids is removed. Prognosis is excellent if surgery is performed before the cornea isdamaged. Entropion has been documented in most dog breeds, although there are some breeds (particular purebreds) that are more commonly affected than others.
Vizsla History
The history of the Vizsla can be traced back as far as the 8th century in the Carpathian Basin in Hungary. Here thet were used as hunting dogs, by a tribe known as Magyar. Carmelite Friars in 1357 made the first written acknowledge of the Hungarian Vizsla in the “Illustrated Vienna Chronicle” by order og King Louis the Great. Vizslas faced near-extinctions throughout the years, most notably by losing popularity to the English and German Shorthair Pointers in 1800s, and also the after aftermath of WWII. The Hungarian Vizsla was used in development of other breeds most notably Weimaraner and German Shorthair Pointer breed. In Rome, 1950, Frank J. Tallman and Emmett A. Scanlan imported Vizsla Sari as the first Vizsla in America. The American Kennel Club recognised the Hungarian Vizsla in 1960.

Shih Tzu

Appearance
The Shih Tzu is a small, compact, sturdy dog with luxurious coat, upright head, jaunty step, and plumed, curved tail flowing over the back.
Coat
They have an abundant double coat of long hair lined with a woolly undercoat. Colours include: white and silver, white and black, white and brown.
Weight: 9 – 16 lbs
Average Life Span: 13 – 14 yrs
Temperament
Although the Shih Tzu has the appearance of being proud and arrogant they are very affectionate, playful and intelligent dogs. Shih Tzu are a good choice for a family with well-behaved children as they love to play, as long as they are handled with care. They get on well with other animals as long as they have been socialised from an early age. A very alert watch dog, the Shih Tzu likes to bark, but is usually quiet inside the house. Shih Tzus crave human attention and do not like being left alone for more than a few hours. They tend to express their unhappiness through destructive chewing. If you work all day, this is not the breed for you.
Training
They have an independent mind of their own and can be stubborn and manipulative, and tend to resist being told what to do. Therefore basic obedience is highly recommended to help develop a content and pleasant member of the family. They can be difficult to housebreak.
Grooming
These little dogs require a good daily grooming using a bristle brush to keep their elegant appearance. A topknot is usually tied with a bow so that the dog can see properly. The top knot must never be pulled too tightly as it will cause the hair follicle to die. Some owners prefer to have them trimmed to make the coat easier and less time consuming to care for. The area around the eyes must be kept dry and clean to avoid problems with staining.
Exercise
They do require exercise but are quite happy to stay at home and play. They are perfectly content with short walks.

Shih Tzu Health Issues
Hip dysplasia: a malformation of the hip joint resulting in a poor fit between the head of the femur bone and the hip socket. This condition can be alleviated by surgery, at some cost to dog and owner. Because dysplastic dogs often produce dysplastic puppies, buyers should ask if both the sire and the dam of the puppy in which they are interested have been rated clear of hip dysplasia. Do not take yes for an answer without seeing a certificate, and ask for a copy to take to your veterinarian.
Renal Dysplasia: A kidney disease known as Renal Dysplasia is common in the Shih-Tzu. This disorder inherited and every effort should be made by Shih-Tzu breeders to avoid breeding any stock whose former puppies have been affected. Currently the disease is irreversible and death is inevitable. There are 3 stages of development. Unfortunately there are no clinical symptoms of early renal disease which may progress over a period of months or years to the second stage, when symptoms first become obvious. The affected dog will develop an excessive thirst and will pass greatly increased amounts of urine. Some dogs will be listless, poor eaters, and may suffer a weight loss. In the final stage, the symptoms of stage two are more pronounced and may be accompanied by severe depression, diarrhoea, vomiting and dehydration – all evidences of kidney dysfunction which will sooner or later result in coma and death.
Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA) is a hereditary disease of the eye that has been identified in this breed. PRA is a blanket term for many types of retinal diseases, all of which result in blindness. All shetland sheepdogs, regardless of age or breeding status, should be examined yearly by a member of the Veterinary Opthalmologists.
Distichiasis: Eyelashes that are abnormally located in the eyelid margin which may cause irritation.
Dry Eye: Caused by abnormal tear production due to a deficiency in production of the watery secretions from the lacrimal glands. Normal tears are essential for the health of the cornea. Deficient tear production causes chronic irritation of the cornea and conjunctiva resulting in corneal ulcers and eventually corneal scarring and can also result in blindness. A dog displays irritation and discomfort by rubbing their eyes, squinting and being sensitive to light. The eye may appear reddened and inflamed and there may also be a thick mucous type discharge in and around the eye. If left untreated, over the long term, the normally transparent cornea becomes thickened and scarred. Blood vessels and pigmented cells move into the cornea and blindness may result. Tear stimulants and artificial tear replacements are used to treat KCS. This is not a cure but away to manage a frustrating, painful, and potentially blinding condition.

Shih Tzu History
Although the Shih Tzu is generally thought to be a Chinese breed, it was developed from Tibetan “lion dogs” which had been bred in Tibet for some 2000 years. The “lion dogs” were an exclusive group of dogs bred by Buddhist monks that included the Lhasa Apso and Tibetan Spaniel. The Shih Tzu, whose name means lion, is reputed to have been the oldest and smallest variety of the Tibetan holy dogs. At one time there was considerable contact between the rulers of ‘Tibet and China, and the “lion dogs” were presented to Chinese Emperors as gifts of high esteem. The Chinese called these dogs Tibetan Shih Tzu Kou, or Tibetan Lion Dog. The dogs were bred specifically to please the emperors in each palace, and type varied.
In 1908, the Dalai Lama, Tibet’s spiritual leader, sent some small dogs of Shih Tzu type to Tzu Hsi, Dowager Empress of the Manchu Dynasty. The Empress was a renowned breeder of Pekingese and added the Shih Tzu to her interests. She breed these dogs giving rise to dogs with different lengths of coats.
After the death of the Empress Tzu Hsi there was much competition among the various palaces to produce dogs of the finest coats and colours, so breeding practices were tightly guarded secrets and records were not kept. During the rise of the Communist government in China, many of the royal dogs were slaughtered. The Breed found their way to England by lady brownrigg when she vivsited Peking in 1930. from this point breeding began in Britain, and in 1935 the breed was officially named the Shih Tzu, but not elevated to championship status in Britain until 1949.

Shar Pei

Other Names: Chinese Shar Pei
Group: Utility
The Shar Pei is a breed of dog originating from China, whose distinctive feature is its deep wrinkles. As young puppies, they have lots of wrinkles, but as they mature, the wrinkles disappear as they “grow into their skin”. The Shar-Pei’s coarse, bristly coat gives him his name: Shar is a gritty type of sand, and pei is Chinese for dog.
Appearance: The Shar-Pei is a compact, square, muscular dog with a blocky head that brings a hippopotamus to mind, blue-black tongues, tiny ears that lie against the head, and a short, curled tail.
Coat:There are 2 distinctive types of coat textures: horse and brush. The horse coat is very short and harsh, and the hair is straight and it stands off from the body, and can also cause an irritating rash on some people.The brush coat is longer than the horse coat, but at the same time it is just as harsh; as well, the hair should be no longer than one inch at the withers. Colours: most popular being that of a tan, but others include that of fawn, cream, black, red, chocolate, sable (two colors of hair, one dark and one light), apricot, a dilute shade of red, and silver, a dilute shade known as blue in other breeds, and more.
Height: 46-51cm
Weight: 18-27kg
Average Lifespan: 8-10 years
Temperament: Shar-Pei are very loyal to their handler. Intelligent playful, active, dominant, and brave. They bond with their family, but are not unfriendly toward strangers. If the dog meets cats and children while they are still young, they usually will not have a problem with them. The Chinese Shar-Pei is easy-going, calm, independent, and devoted. They make a delightful companion and are good watchdogs with a strong protective instinct. Shar Peis are utterly devoted to their family, and want to be with them as much as possible. If relegated to the backyard and excluded from family life he will not only be miserable but may also exhibit behavioural problems. Training
They are very easy to housebreak as they are naturally very clean. The Shar-Pei needs a confident handler. If you are uncertain, inconsistent, too soft, or mild, in the dog’s eyes, it will take over as the boss. Shar-Pei need a firm, but gentle, extremely consistent authority figure. The dog must be taught all humans are above him in the pecking order. Those who see themselves as above humans will be stubborn and bold. This breed needs firm obedience training to establish your leadership.
Exercise
They do need exercise, but enjoy playing as well as running and walking. They will need daily walks to keep them happy and healthy. Shar Peis do not like to get wet, and bad weather may well put them off going out. As Shar Pei are sensitive to heat exercise should be undertaken in the cooler parts of the day and shade and fresh water should be available at all times.
Grooming
The folded skin of this breed needs a lot of attention to keep it in good condition, and stop skin problems developing. Some lines have very close set tails and these must be inspected and cleaned to prevent infection. Shampoos must be chosen with care and, as the nails grow very quickly, must be trimmed regularly. The eyes as well should be inspected daily. The coat itself just needs a going over with a soft brush.
Shar Pei Health Problems
Ectropion is a medical condition in which the lower eyelid turns outwards. The condition can be repaired surgically.
Entropion is a medical condition in which the eyelids fold inward. It is very uncomfortable, as the eyelashes rub against the eyeball constantly. Entropion is usually caused by genetic factors and may be congenital. Trachoma infection may cause scarring of the inner eyelid, which may cause entropion.Treatment is a simple surgery in which excess skin of the outer lids is removed. Prognosis is excellent if surgery is performed before the cornea is damaged. Entropion has been documented in most dog breeds, although there are some breeds (particular purebreds) that are more commonly affected than others.
Cherry eye is the term used to refer to canine nictitans gland prolapse, a common eye condition in various dog breeds where the gland of the third eyelid prolapses and becomes visible. This condition usually must be corrected, mostly through surgery, because the gland produces some of the eye’s tears. Older methods of cherry eye correction involved simply removing the gland, but it is a last-resort procedure today (complemented with a lifetime of eyedrops if performed), as the gland’s purpose was unknown then. Modern methods of cherry eye correction involve repositioning of the gland to its normal location. The success rate of this type of surgery is approximately 80% in most breeds.
Hypothyroidism – an endocrine disease that results in the abnormally low production of thyroid hormones. The symptoms of hypothyroidism include lethargy, mental depression, weight gain and a tendency to seek out warm places. Hypothyroidism can also affect the coat and skin, causing hair loss and excessive dandruff.
Swollen Hock Syndrome
The most common of the Shar Pei health problems is called Swollen Hock syndrome, which is the inability to break down and remove amyloid proteins which causes an the proteins to build up and take over the kidneys and liver. This disease is frequently found between four and 18 months of age, but can be discovered at any time.
Swollen Hock syndrome is characterized by lethargy, fever, decrease in appetite, occasional fever, stiff or swollen legs, and muzzle tenderness and swelling. A low protein diet that is high in parsley and natural sulfur can help cure some of the symptoms associated with Swollen Hock Syndrome, though there isn’t technically a cure for the disease itself.
Wrinkle Problems
Infections, sores or rashes can develop in the folds of the skin if they are not properly cleaned. Shar Pei owners must make sure not to subject their pets to moist or overly heated environments, as the skin folds hold moisture, and cause mold, sores, and rashes. The best way to avoid this if the dog must be wet, is to make sure to take a clean towel and lift up each of the skin folds and assure they are completely dry before laying them back down.
Hip dysplasia – a malformation of the hip joint resulting in a poor fit between the head of the femur bone and the hip socket. This condition can be alleviated by surgery, at some cost to dog and owner. Because dysplastic dogs often produce dysplastic puppies, buyers should ask if both the sire and the dam of the puppy in which they are interested have been rated clear of hip dysplasia. Do not take yes for an answer without seeing a certificate, and ask for a copy to take to your veterinarian.
Shar Pei History
The Shar Pei is one of the world’s ancient dog breeds and is believed to have originated in China’s Kwangtung Province. Although there is no definite date as to when the sharpei first came into existence, there are some historical drawings and statues from the Han Dynasty that feature an animal that closely resembles the breed and date as far back as 200 B.C.
Despite the fact that the shar pei has been around for a long time, his actual ancestry is still shrouded in mystery. Many people think that he is a descendant of another Asian breed – the Chow Chow. However, the only distinct connection between these two canines is their purple or blue/black tongue. Other dogs they have been linked to include the Great Pyrenees and the Tibetan Mastiff.
It is likely that they were originally bred as general purpose farm dogs. Their jobs consisted of hunting and guarding livestock, as well as their home and family. They were prized for their intelligence and fighting capability and were also said to have been protectors of samurai warriors and Chinese Royalty.
As time passed, the shar pei were used for animal fights. With their impressive strength, strong jaws, sharp teeth, loose skin and bristly fur, they became known as ultimate fighting dogs and could easily break free from a grasp and crush their opponents.
Although sharpeis spent many centuries thriving in China, they almost became extinct when the dog population was practically eradicated when the People’s Republic of China was established. It was through the efforts of a dedicated Chinese businessman from Hong Kong, Matgo Law, that the breed was saved and introduced to America in the 1970’s.

Saint Bernard

Appearance
The Saint Bernard is one of the instantly recognisable breeds, this gentle giant has a strong muscular body with a massive head and drooping ears.
Coat
There are two varieties of St Bernard: smooth shorthaired (short, thick, and dense coat), or rough longhaired (medium length and slightly wavy coat). Both types have double coats. Colours include: red-brown and white or brindle and white
Weight: 110 – 200 lbs
Average Life Span: 8 – 10 yrs
Temperament
Saint Bernard’s are gentle giants that are loyal, protective and courageous. They are good-humoured, trustworthy, sensible, gentle, and patient. This is a breed that loves family life and revels in the company of children. They can become depressed if they are left alone. They make excellent watchdogs and good family dogs.
Important

• They do not bark very much. However drooling is a problem in this breed. The drooling usually comes after and during exercise, eating, drinking, or excitement.
• St Bernard’s need a lot of room and would not be suitable for a small home.
• The St Bernard is a big dog and needs a large amount of food. Therefore feeding can become quite expensive

Training
St Bernard’s are highly intelligent and easy to train. Saint Bernard’s must receive obedience training as a puppy because of their tremendous size as an adult. They must be trained to not pull on a leash when young.
Grooming
The soft-coated Saint is much easier to groom than the rough-coated. Saint Bernard’s shed a lot, both varieties need to brushed 2-3 times a week.
Exercise
Exercising St Bernard puppies must be done very gradually until the bones are well formed and strong. Short walks are best until the dog is about two years old. From then walks should be made gradually longer to meet their moderate exercise level. Adult Saint Bernard’s need more exercise to keep them in shape, but not in hot or humid weather for fear of overheating.

Saint Bernard Health Issues
Bloat (gastric torsion), though not a hereditary condition, frequently affects many breed including the st bernard. This is a very serious condition. When a dog bloats, the stomach can turn and block, causing a build up of gas. Unless treated quickly, bloat can be fatal. Signs of bloat include futile attempts to vomit and to salivate. Bloat, which may lead to cardiovascular collapse, usually occurs when exercise too closely follows eating. The incidence of bloat may be lessened by feeding adult dogs twice a day and, of course, by allowing a dog time to digest before taking him for a run in the park. Click Here for more information
Hip dysplasia, a malformation of the hip joint resulting in a poor fit between the head of the femur bone and the hip socket. This condition can be alleviated by surgery, at some cost to dog and owner. Because dysplastic dogs often produce dysplastic puppies, buyers should ask if both the sire and the dam of the puppy in which they are interested have been rated clear of hip dysplasia. Do not take yes for an answer without seeing a certificate, and ask for a copy to take to your veterinarian.
Von Willebrand’s Disease (vWD): is an autosomally (not sex-linked) inherited bleeding disorder with a prolonged bleeding time (somewhat similar to hemophilia in humans) and a mild to severe factor IX deficiency. A DNA test for vWD is now available. Carrier-to-carrier breedings, in theory, will produce puppies that are 25% clear, 50% carriers, and 25% affected. Ideally, only clear-to-clear or clear-to-carrier should occur, so that no puppies will be affected. Not all dogs that are vWD affected will have severe bleeding problems, but they ARE at risk whenever they need to have surgery or have an accident. Some unlucky affected dogs will actually bleed out from a needle stick or minor wound.
Epilepsy: is a seizure disorder which has been found in this breed. Seizures vary between a far-away look or twitching in one part of the face to your pet falling on his side, barking, gnashing his teeth, urinating, defecating and paddling his limbs. Seizures usually appear suddenly and end spontaneously, and can last from seconds to minutes. The disorder has no known cause, however it is important for your veterinarian to determine your pets general health and make sure there is no underlying disease that may be causing the seizures. Treatment can include anticonvulsant medications. Always ask your vet for advice.
Entropion is a problem with the eyelid that causes inward rolling. Lashes on the edge of the eyelid irritate the surface of the eyeball and may lead to more serious problems.

Saint Bernard History
The Saint Bernard is a descendant of the Roman Molossus, the original Mastiff stock in the Swiss Alps. The first Saint Bernard was bred by Monks at the Hospice of St. Bernard de Menthon around 1660. The hospice was snow free only a few months during the warmest part of the summer, it was very dangerous for foot travellers journeying to or past the hospice. These good-natured giants are world renowned for their long history of rescuing these travellers and climbers on the Swiss Alps. During the three centuries that the dogs served as rescue workers at the hospice, it is estimated they have saved over 2,000 lives. The most famous St. Bernard in history, Barry, born in 1800, saved forty people over a period of ten years.
In 1830 Newfoundland blood was introduced in an attempt to give the breed added size and vitality. this resulted in the longhaired variety of the breed. Up until that time all Bernard’s were short-coated. It is the long-haired variety that is now most common. Called at different times in history as the Mountain Dog, the Alpine Mastiff, and the Barry Dog, this breed was officially recognized as the St. Bernard in 1880.

Rottweiler

Appearance
Rottweilers are one of the strongest and most powerful dogs for their size. They are solid muscular dogs.
Coat
Rottweilers have coarse flat coats. They are black in colour with rust markings on cheeks, muzzle, chest, legs, above the eyes and under the tail.
Weight: Females 84 lbs – Males 110 lbs
Average Life Span: 10 -12 years
Temperament
The ideal Rottweiler is quiet, even-tempered, obedient, easy to train, faithful and brave. Owning a Rottweiler is both a pleasure and a responsibility. They are good with children if raised with them from the start and if children are respectful of the dog. Rottweilers generally do well with other dogs if they have been socialized and trained properly, but can become aggressive with other dominant dogs. They are loyal and protective of their family and make excellent companion and guard dog. Rottweilers love human attention, separation from their owners can cause severe distress. This is an intelligent breed with a high energy level therefore boredom can easily lead to behavioural problems.
Owners should be knowledgeable about this breed type and the needs of the breed they are taking on.
Training
If not properly trained the protective nature of these dogs can lead them to dominate the household which could lead to many future problems. It is essential to train and socialise this breed from a puppy so that they know who is the boss of the household. Training should be firm, positively rewarded and consistent. These are confident and strong minded dogs that must be owned by responsible people committed to the care, training and exercise of their dog.
Grooming
Grooming requirements is fairly minimal due to their short coats, weekly brushing should be enough to remove dead hair keep the coat healthy.
Exercise
Rottweilers have medium to high exercise, and will need regular long daily walks to keep them happy and healthy.
Rottweiler Health Issues
Bloat (gastric torsion), though not a hereditary condition, frequently affects many breeds including the rottweiler. This is a very serious condition. When a dog bloats, the stomach can turn and block, causing a build up of gas. Unless treated quickly, bloat can be fatal. Signs of bloat include futile attempts to vomit and to salivate. Bloat, which may lead to cardiovascular collapse, usually occurs when exercise too closely follows eating. The incidence of bloat may be lessened by feeding adult dogs twice a day and, of course, by allowing a dog time to digest before taking him for a run in the park. Click Here for more information
Hip dysplasia, a malformation of the hip joint resulting in a poor fit between the head of the femur bone and the hip socket. This condition can be alleviated by surgery, at some cost to dog and owner. Because dysplastic dogs often produce dysplastic puppies, buyers should ask if both the sire and the dam of the puppy in which they are interested have been rated clear of hip dysplasia. Do not take yes for an answer without seeing a certificate, and ask for a copy to take to your veterinarian.
Panosteitis: an intermittent mild-to-severe lameness caused by a painful, inflammatory disease that affects the long bones of young, rapidly growing dogs. Reported to affect males more often than females, panosteitis may appear in one leg or in all four legs simultaneously.
Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA): is a family of diseases all involving the gradual deterioration of the retina. It is diagnosed by a retinoscopic exam or by means of an electroretinogram (ERG). Early in the disease, affected dogs become night-blind and lack the ability to see in dim light; later on daytime vision also fails. As their vision deteriorates, affected dogs adapt to their handicap very well, as long as their environment remains constant. Certain breeds are affected early in life, whereas in other breeds, PRA develops much later in onset.
Cataracts: cause a loss of the normal transparency of the lens of the eye. The problem can occur in one or both eyes and can lead to blindness.
Rottweiler History
The exact origin of the Rottweiler was never documented but the breed is thought to be a descendant of the mastiff type drover dogs of Ancient Rome. During Ancient Roman times very large armies were required for expeditions throughout Europe, the freshness of food became an important issue. No form of refrigeration meant that live cattle was needed to accompany the Roman Armies. This meant a dog capable of keeping the herd together during the long marches was needed. The drover dog was well suited to this task as well as guarding the cattle at night.
With time the Roman campsites developed sites of civilisation, with roads leading into different army camps. One road in Southern Germany led into a trading center, which became known as Rottweil. The butchers of Rottweil depended on their mastiff type dogs to herd cattle and pull meat carts to market. They were also used to guard them when they were walking back from market with their profits.
All of this led to increasing respect for the “butcher’s dog”, and local owners began selectively breeding them. They were considered superior to other dogs found in that area, the name “Rottweiler” was introduced. This name has remained until the present day.

Pug

Appearance
The pug is a compact, muscular and sturdy little dog with a distinctively flat wrinkled face.
Coat
The coat is fine, smooth, soft, short, and glossy. Colours include silver, apricot, or fawn with a dark mask over their face.
Weight: 13 – 20 lbs
Average Life Span: 12-15 yrs
Temperament
Not as fragile as other toy breeds, the pug combines a cocky confidence with a friendly, sensitive nature. They are clowns at heart with a great sense of humour, but also hold themselves with dignity. They crave human attention and just love to be loved. They are playful with children and will get along well with other family pets and dogs, making ideal family companions.
Training
Pugs have a sensitive nature so training should be positive and gentle but it must be consistent.
Grooming
The Pug sheds a lot, weekly brushing is required. The face wrinkles should be cleaned daily with a cotton swab to prevent fungus infections. Ear cleaning, and nail clipping are also required.
Exercise
Although minimal exercise is needed pugs do need more exercise than most other toy breeds.
Pug Health Issues
Heat:The pug has a unique “flat faced” nose and head structure which is technically called “brachycephalic”. Dogs with this structure feel the effects of warm surroundings and exertion sooner than dogs with more typical nose and head structure. They pant more readily to cool themselves.
Hot weather can therefore be fatal to these little dogs, they don’t even need to be moving about in it to succumb to the heat. Please make sure that any exercise is given early in the morning or late in the evening, don’t be tempted to go for a nice Sunday afternoon stroll when it is very sunny or hot. Also please don’t allow your dog to lay out in the sun for long periods, they do not know when they have had enough and it doesn’t take long for their panting to become out of control.
Luxating Patella Slipping knee joints (also referred to as luxating patellas, slipped stifles) are a common problem in small breeds. In this condition, the kneecap slips out of its groove and moves against the thighbone (femur) instead of along its natural groove. Although this has been found to be a heritable condition, small, active breeds are likely to aggravate it through the course of their natural activities (jumping up and down) around taller objects such as furniture.
Legg’s Perthes Disease (commonly mistaken for hip dysplasia) is due to the death of the head of the femur bone. This causes wearing and promotes arthritic changes. Therefore, after the condition has progressed for some time it is difficult to diagnose whether the resulting degenerated joint is a manifestation of hip dysplasia or Legg’s Perthes. This condition is congenital and has no known cure. The accompanying pain and arthritic changes can be controlled with steroids.
Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA): is a family of diseases all involving the gradual deterioration of the retina. It is diagnosed by a retinoscopic exam or by means of an electroretinogram (ERG). Early in the disease, affected dogs become night-blind and lack the ability to see in dim light; later on daytime vision also fails. As their vision deteriorates, affected dogs adapt to their handicap very well, as long as their environment remains constant. Certain breeds are affected early in life, whereas in other breeds, PRA develops much later in onset.
Cataracts: cause a loss of the normal transparency of the lens of the eye. The problem can occur in one or both eyes and can lead to blindness.
Glaucoma: is a painful and serious condition that causes pressure within the eye to increase. It can lead to blindness if not treated early.
Pug dog encephalitis: an inflammation of the brain unique to pugs. Seizure is the primary symptom of pug dog encephalitis, which tend to affect young to middle-aged pugs and which cannot be cured.
Elongated soft palate: often results in some degree of obstruction of the dog’s airway, thus causing snorting, snoring and breathing through the mouth. In sever cases the palate partially blocks the opening into the voice box and surgery is necessary.
Pug History
The exact origin of the Pug is uncertain but it is thought to date back to 400 BC. Some theorists suggest that the breed resulted from cross-breedings of small bulldogs and mastiffs. Another interesting theory is that it originated in China, and that it is a larger, smooth-coated cousin to the Oriental Pekingese
In the 1500s, the Pug became the official dog of the House of Orange in Holland when a silver Pug named Pompey saved the life of his master, William, Prince of Orange. Upon hearing enemy soldiers, Pompey licked William’s face and barked loudly until the prince awoke. William then grabbed Pompey, and ran to safety. The Pug became the court’s official dog and William’s tomb displays both himself and the cherished pet. In France, Napoleon’s wife, Josephine, was imprisoned and used her pug to get secret messages to her husband. The pug arrived in England around 1860.
Some believe that the name of the breed comes from the Latin word “pugnus” which means “fist” because the pugs head looks like a clenched fist. Another theory is that the name originated from the marmoset pug monkeys that were kept as pets and resembled the little dog.

Pomeranian

Appearance
The Pomeranian is the smallest of the five sizes of German Spitz. This tiny, fluffy dog has bright, dark, almond-shaped eyes, and a distinctive feathered tail that fans forward over the back.
Coat
Their double coat usually comes in solid colours. A wide range of colours include: black, brown, chocolate, beaver, red, orange, cream, orange sable, wolf sable, blue, white or parti-colour.
Weight: 3 – 7 lbs
Average Life Span: 11 – 15 yrs
Temperament
The Pomeranian is an active breed, known for having a big personality in a little package. They are lively and energetic little dogs who are very loyal to their families. They will accept other animals in the household but will not hesitate to attack outsiders, regardless of their size. They make excellent watch dogs as they are verbal when confronted with a stranger. They are good with older children, but would not suit a family with young children as they can be seriously injured (even children with the best intentions could easily fall on this little dog).
Training
They are intelligent dogs and are quick to learn obedience tricks. However they are difficult to housebreak.
Grooming
A Pomeranian’s coat goes through many changes before the adult coat grows in. At about three months a Pom puppy loses that cloud-soft puppy fluff. The adult coat begins to appear when the Pom is a year old, but that coat requires months of growth before it is fully mature. Daily grooming is needed and occasional trimming is required around the feet. Neglected coats, in addition to matting easily, can harbour undetected vermin, skin conditions and fungus.
Exercise
Minimal requirements, they will get enough exercise running and playing around the house and garden. The breed is very curious and needs plenty of mental stimulation to prevent behavioural problems and destructive actions.
Pomeranian Health Issues
Dislocation and broken bones can be common and great care must be taken with puppies to deter them from jumping.
Dental Problems: Close attention must be paid to a Pom puppy’s teeth. Baby teeth are normally replaced by an adult set at about six months. In many cases, however, the Pom will retain its baby teeth and have two sets of teeth growing side by side. When this occurs, dental work by a veterinarian may be necessary.
Luxating Patella Slipping knee joints (also referred to as luxating patellas, slipped stifles) are a common problem in small breeds. In this condition, the kneecap slips out of its groove and moves against the thighbone (femur) instead of along its natural groove. Although this has been found to be a heritable condition, small, active breeds are likely to aggravate it through the course of their natural activities (jumping up and down) around taller objects such as furniture.
Entropion: is a problem with the eyelid that causes inward rolling. Lashes on the edge of the eyelid irritate the surface of the eyeball and may lead to more serious problems.
Cataracts: cause a loss of the normal transparency of the lens of the eye. The problem can occur in one or both eyes and can lead to blindness.
Tracheal collapse: is a disorder of the windpipe. The rings of the trachea are weakened and collapse, resulting in persistent coughing and possibly difficult breathing.
Hypothyroidism: an endocrine disease that results in the abnormally low production of thyroid hormones. The symptoms of hypothyroidism include lethargy, mental depression, weight gain and a tendency to seek out warm places. Hypothyroidism can also affect the coat and skin, causing hair loss and excessive dandruff.
Hypoglycaemia: the medical term for low blood sugar is a condition associated with a sudden drop in the level of blood sugar. This commonly affects the small toy breeds as puppies, and usually not seen in puppies over twelve weeks of age. It is most likely caused by the uneven spurts in growth of the internal organs of the puppy, especially the pancreas which is associated with insulin production. Symptoms that a dogs sugar level has dropped too low include: weakness, confusion, drooling, pale gums, seizures. These attacks can be fatal. Prevention from these attacks are monitored through diet. Always ask your local vet for advice!!
Severe Hair Loss Syndrome: It occurs mainly in males. When the puppy coat sheds, the coat does not grow back. Another version of the same condition happens at a later age, with a normal appearing coat that slowly starts to thin, starting at the back of the thighs and buttocks and moving up the back.
Pomeranian History
The Pomeranian is thought to have descended from the sled dogs of Iceland and Lapland. The breed is the smallest of the group of dogs known as “spitz-type” dogs. Spitz dogs were extremely popular in Germany as early as the 1500s, where they were used to herd livestock. At this time they were still much larger than they are today.
The first to officially import the Pomeranian breed of dog to England was Queen Charlotte wife of George III. The two dogs Charlotte imported in 1767 – and their portraits rendered by Thomas Gainsborough – brought national attention to the breed in England. Queen Charlotte obtained her dogs from the area around Pomerania, it was here that they were bred down in size. The dogs were now called Pomeranians in Britain, even though no German breed has ever been known by that name. To this day the Pomeranian’s counterpart in Germany is still called the zwergspitz (dwarf spitz). The popularity was slow to take until Queen Victoria became interested in the breed and began to show it. In fact, Queen Victoria is believed to have been a great influence in the breed’s eventual smaller size, since she preferred the smaller specimens.

Pekingese

pearance
The Pekingese has been known, both in the Orient and in the West, as the “lion dog”-presumably because of its appearance, although it is also acclaimed as having a lion-like independence and courage. They have a characteristically short, flat face, and long ears.
Coat
The Pekingese has an extravagant, long, straight-flowing coat that has profuse feathering. The Peke can be any of a variety of colours, the most common being fawn and black, red or parti-coloured.
Weight: 11 – 12 lbs
Average Life Span: 11 – 15 yrs
Temperament
Pekingese are brave, independent, stubborn, intelligent little dogs. The Peke, although calm, non-aggressive and fearless, can at times be extremely stubborn They are good with children only if they have been raised with them otherwise they can be quite jealous. They are good with other pets if socialized at a young age as they have a tendency to be suspicious of other dogs. They make a good watchdog as they are very suspicious of strangers. Pekingese also have a tendency to be bossy and they like to be pampered.
Training
They can be stubborn and independent, not the easiest dog to obedience train.
Grooming
Daily combing and brushing of the very long, double coat is essential. This routine should be established early in the dog’s life. Some owners take great pride in keeping the coat of the Pekingese very full. However, most owners find this an overwhelming task and keep the coat cut back to a moderate length.
Exercise
Minimal requirements, they will get enough exercise running and playing around the house and garden. Short walks would also be appreciated by this happy little dog.
Pekingese Health Issues
Pekes can sometimes have difficulty in whelping due to size and shape of the puppies’ heads thus making caesarean sections necessary.
The pekingese has a unique “flat faced” nose and head structure which is technically called “brachycephalic”. Dogs with this structure feel the effects of warm surroundings and exertion sooner than dogs with more typical nose and head structure. They pant more readily to cool themselves.
Hot weather can be fatal to these little dogs, they don’t even need to be moving about in it to succumb to the heat. Please make sure that any exercise is given early in the morning or late in the evening, don’t be tempted to go for a nice Sunday afternoon stroll when it is very sunny or hot. Also please don’t allow your dog to lay out in the sun for long periods, they do not know when they have had enough and it doesn’t take long for their panting to become out of control.

Umbilical Hernia: Protrusion or tear in the muscle of the abdominal wall through the navel
Inguinal Hernia: Protrusion near the groin under the skin.
Luxating Patella Slipping knee joints (also referred to as luxating patellas, slipped stifles) are a common problem in small breeds. In this condition, the kneecap slips out of its groove and moves against the thighbone (femur) instead of along its natural groove. Although this has been found to be a heritable condition, small, active breeds are likely to aggravate it through the course of their natural activities (jumping up and down) around taller objects such as furniture.
Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA): is a family of diseases all involving the gradual deterioration of the retina. It is diagnosed by a retinoscopic exam or by means of an electroretinogram (ERG). Early in the disease, affected dogs become nightblind and lack the ability to see in dim light; later on daytime vision also fails. As their vision deteriorates, affected dogs adapt to their handicap very well, as long as their environment remains constant. Certain breeds are affected early in life, whereas in other breeds, PRA develops much later in onset.
Dry Eye: Caused when natural tear production slows or stops. Symptoms include green gungy eyes, especially in the morning and a dry appearance or blue haze to the eye itself. Can be confirmed by your vet who will perform a dry eye test with blotting type paper to see how much moisture can be soaked from the eyes surface. Artificial tears will need to be applied to the eye for life, your vet can prescribe this.
Hypothyroidism: an endocrine disease that results in the abnormally low production of thyroid hormones. The symptoms of hypothyroidism include lethargy, mental depression, weight gain and a tendency to seek out warm places. Hypothyroidism can also affect the coat and skin, causing hair loss and excessive dandruff.
Pekingese History
Earliest references to the Pekingese date back to the 8th century and it is believed that the breed is a miniature edition of the ancient “Foo Dogs” of China which were used to ward off evil spirits. Ownership of the Pekingese was restricted to members of the Chinese Imperial Court.
On ceremonial occasions they had certain functions to perform, such as carrying the hem of the Emperors robes in their mouths and barking to announce his arrival. In the Han Dynasty it was known as the Sleeve dog. They were used as a a source of warmth, as they were small enough to be put inside the sleeves of a garment.It was not until 1860 that the Pekingese was to become well known outside China. For centuries only the Emperors, their families and courtiers at the Imperial Court in Peking were allowed to own these lion dogs. Although hundreds of them lived at the royal court, only the finest of the breed were kept in the Emperor’s apartments. Considered to be sacred and much cherished, the theft of one of these dogs was punishable by death.In 1860 the Summer Palace was stormed by British and French troops. All dogs in the Palace were killed by the Chinese to prevent them falling into foreign hands.
Five dogs belonging to the Emperor’s aunt, who had taken her own life before the arrival of the enemy, survived and were brought to England. One small fawn and white dog, named Looty, was given to Queen Victoria by the commanding officer, General Dunne.

Parson Russell Terrier

ppearance
The Parson Russell Terrier is a small, compact, active terrier. The nose is black and the almond-shaped eyes are dark. The v-shaped ears fold forward.
Coat
They have smooth, wiry, or “broken” coat. Colours are mostly white with black, tan, or brown markings.
Weight: 11 – 18 lbs
Average Life Span: 9 – 15 years
Temperament
The Parson Russell Terrier is a fearless, affectionate, happy, alert, confident, intelligent and lively little terrier. They are usually good with children, but would be best suited to a family with older children. This is beacause of the fact that some lines are definitely not tolerant of children and will react strongly against teasing so it is extremely important to discuss this with the breeder you are dealing with. They are dominant over other dogs, and their terrier instinct can be deadly towards animals it considers to be prey. Therefore not an ideal for a family with other dogs and non canine animals. Parson Russell Terriers are not the ideal pet for everyone. Like most terriers, the Parson Russell Terrierl is a digger and a barker. They are also very active and need a lot of attention. Regular mental and physical activity is essential to avoid behavioural problems developing. If you dont have time to give this attention this is not the breed for you. Parson Russell Terriers are usually excellent watch dogs, and many have possessive qualities that also make them good guards.
Training
The Parson Russell Terrier is an intelligent little dog but can be a bit stubborn like most terriers. Training should begin early and be firm and consistent. Parson Russell Terriers must be socialised from puppy hood with people and anmimals otherwise they can become dominant with other dogs and possessive over their owners.
Grooming
Parson Russell Terriers shed alot, brushing once a week and more frequently during shedding seasons is necessary to remove dead hair and keep the coat healthy. Bathe only when necessary.
Exercise
They need lots of daily exercise to meet their high energy levels to keep them healthy and happy.
Parson Russell Terrier Health Issues
Luxating Patella: Slipping knee joints (also referred to as luxating patellas, slipped stifles) are a common problem in small breeds. In this condition, the kneecap slips out of its groove and moves against the thighbone (femur) instead of along its natural groove. Although this has been found to be a heritable condition, small, active breeds are likely to aggravate it through the course of their natural activities (jumping up and down) around taller objects such as furniture.
Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA): is a family of diseases all involving the gradual deterioration of the retina. It is diagnosed by a retinoscopic exam or by means of an electroretinogram (ERG). Early in the disease, affected dogs become nightblind and lack the ability to see in dim light; later on daytime vision also fails. As their vision deteriorates, affected dogs adapt to their handicap very well, as long as their environment remains constant. Certain breeds are affected early in life, whereas in other breeds, PRA develops much later in onset
Von Willibrand’s Disease (vWD) – is an autosomally (not sex-linked) inherited bleeding disorder with a prolonged bleeding time (somewhat similar to hemophilia in humans) and a mild to severe factor IX deficiency. A DNA test for vWD is now available. Carrier-to-carrier breedings, in theory, will produce puppies that are 25% clear, 50% carriers, and 25% affected. Ideally, only clear-to-clear or clear-to-carrier should occur, so that no puppies will be affected. Not all dogs that are vWD affected will have severe bleeding problems, but they ARE at risk whenever they need to have surgery or have an accident. Some unlucky affected dogs will actually bleed out from a needle stick or minor wound.
Cervical Vertebral Instability (CVI or Wobbler’s Syndrome) – Dogs (usually in mid-life) suffer from spinal cord compression caused by cervical vertebral instability or from a malformed spinal canal. Extreme symptoms are paralysis of the limbs (front, hind, or all four). Neck pain with extension and flexion may or may not be present. Surgical therapy is hotly debated and extremely expensive with questionable success. In some surgically treated cases, clinical recurrence has been identified.
Parson Russell Terrier History
The Parson Russell Terrier takes it name from the Reverend John Russell who bred one of the finest strains of terriers for working fox in Devonshire, England in the mid-to-late 1800′s. Rev. Russell (1795-1883), apart from his church activities, had a passion for fox hunting and the breeding of fox hunting dogs; he is also said to be a rather flamboyant character, probably accounting for his strain of terrier’s notability and the name of our terrier today. His first terrier, the immortal “TRUMP”, is said to be the foundation of John Russell’s strain of working terriers.
John Russell maintained his strain of fox terriers bred strictly for working, and the terrier we know of today as the Parson Russell Terrier is much the same as the pre-1900 fox terrier. The Parson Russell Terrier has survived the changes that have occurred in the modern-day Fox Terrier because it has been preserved by working terrier enthusiasts in England for more than 100 years.

Old English Sheepdog

Appearance
Old English Sheepdogs are very distinctive with their long, shaggy coats covering stocky, well-balanced and muscular bodies. The old english sheepdog shaggy coat is hard in texture, with a water-resistant undercoat. Colours can be any shade of grey, grizzle, blue or blue merle with or without white markings. Their dark or blue coloured eyes appear to be totally covered but their vision is never impaired. From behind, their walk is a bear-like roll and when trotting show effortless powerful drive from their back legs.
Weight: 26-29 kg
Average Life Span: 9-15 years
Temperament
Old English Sheepdogs are cheerful, friendly, loyal extroverts and make superb family companions as they adore children. They have lovely natures however they can be excitable and rough when playing, therefore care must be taken when young children are involved. This large breed has lots of energy and would best suit an active family with a big house/garden. They will get along with other animals.
Training
Training basic commands is essential from a young age for a large breed like this one. Old English Sheepdogs are very intelligent and learn quickly. They can be excellent obedience dogs for competition.
Grooming
Grooming demands are very high. Weekly grooming is very important to keep a coat in good condition. By 8 or 9 months of age you will start finding mats if the coat is not brushed through. Mats can lead to serious skin problems and are most uncomfortable for your dog. The coat tends to mat when changing from puppy to adult coat. Once the adult coat has emerged, you will find regular grooming will keep your dog from matting.
Exercise
Because of its herding origins, an OES should be exercised regularly. Between 1-2 hours of daily exercise should be sufficient, important do not exercise him in hot weather, his big fur coat means he does feel the heat more quickly than other breeds. Click here for more info.
Old English Sheepdog Health Issues
Hip dysplasia: a malformation of the hip joint resulting in a poor fit between the head of the femur bone and the hip socket. This condition can be alleviated by surgery, at some cost to dog and owner. Because dysplastic dogs often produce dysplastic puppies, buyers should ask if both the sire and the dam of the puppy in which they are interested have been rated clear of hip dysplasia. Do not take yes for an answer without seeing a certificate, and ask for a copy to take to your veterinarian.
Cataracts: cause a loss of the normal transparency of the lens of the eye. The problem can occur in one or both eyes and can lead to blindness.
Deafness Prone to deafness in old age
Cervical Vertebral Instability (CVI or Wobbler’s Syndrome) – Dogs (usually in mid-life) suffer from spinal cord compression caused by cervical vertebral instability or from a malformed spinal canal. Extreme symptoms are paralysis of the limbs (front, hind, or all four). Neck pain with extension and flexion may or may not be present. Surgical therapy is hotly debated and extremely expensive with questionable success. In some surgically treated cases, clinical recurrence has been identified.
Old English Sheepdog History
The origin of the Old English Sheepdog remains a question of keen interest to Bobtail fanciers, and is still open to new theories and discoveries. However, there are traces of evidence which place its origin in the early nineteenth century, centered in the Southwestern Counties of England. Some maintain that the Scottish BeardedCollie had a large part in the making of the Old English Sheepdog. Others claim the Russian Owtchar as one of its progenitors. Writings of that time refer to a “drover’s dog” which was used primarily for driving sheep and cattle to market. It is speculated that these drover’s dogs were exempt from taxes due to their working status. To prove their occupation, their tails were docked, leading to the custom of calling the sheepdog by the nickname “Bob” or “Bobtail”. Although this dog has been used more for driving than for herding, the lack of a tail to serve as a rudder, so to speak, has in no way affected its ability to work with heavier kinds of sheep or cattle.

Newfoundland

Appearance
The Newfoundland is a large, muscular dog renowned for its gentle nature. Their ears are long, broad, shaggy, and hang to below the bottom of the jaw, they have a long tail the curves naturally at the end. Originally bred to aid fishermen the Newfoundland has powerful hindquarters, a large lung capacity, large webbed feet, and a heavy, oily coat all contribute to the dog’s ability to swim and to withstand cold waters. They have a very strong instinct to rescue anything or anyone, in the water and retrieve it to safety.
Coat
Their coat is water-repellent and very long, dense, and lush. Colours include solid black, bronze, or come in patches of black and white (called landseer).
Weight: 100 – 150 lbs
Average Life Span: 8 – 10 years
Temperament
Known as one of the friendliest breeds the Newfoundland is often referred to as a gentle giant. They are very docile, and get on well with children and other animals making them a great family pet. They are protective of children, make good guard dogs and need to be included in as much family activity as possible to avoid boredom.
Training
The Newfoundland is an intelligent dog that requires consistent but gentle training.
Grooming
The grooming needs of this large dog are demanding. They should be brushed daily Avoid bathing unless necessary as it will strip away his natural coat’s oils. Instead use dry shampoo.
Exercise
Puppies should have all exercise monitored while it is still growing to ensure that no damage occurs to the bones and joints. Adult Newfoundland require long daily walks to keep them happy and healthy. They love water, swimming being one of their favourite forms of exercise Because of their size and their thick coats, it is important to take extra care during hot weather that they do not suffer from heat exhaustion.
Newfoundland Health Issues
Bloat (gastric torsion), though not a hereditary condition, frequently many breeds including the newfoundland. This is a very serious condition. When a dog bloats, the stomach can turn and block, causing a build up of gas. Unless treated quickly, bloat can be fatal. Signs of bloat include futile attempts to vomit and to salivate. Bloat, which may lead to cardiovascular collapse, usually occurs when exercise too closely follows eating. The incidence of bloat may be lessened by feeding adult dogs twice a day and, of course, by allowing a dog time to digest before taking him for a run in the park. Click Here for more information
Hip dysplasia, a malformation of the hip joint resulting in a poor fit between the head of the femur bone and the hip socket. This condition can be alleviated by surgery, at some cost to dog and owner. Because dysplastic dogs often produce dysplastic puppies, buyers should ask if both the sire and the dam of the puppy in which they are interested have been rated clear of hip dysplasia. Do not take yes for an answer without seeing a certificate, and ask for a copy to take to your veterinarian.
Elbow Dysplasia : Due perhaps to improper development (different growth rates) of the three bones making up the elbow, the joint is lax or loose and in mildly affected dogs leads to painful arthritis. Treatments involve surgical correction if possible, or medical management using aspirin and other anti-inflammatory drugs.
Hypothyroidism, an endocrine disease that results in the abnormally low production of thyroid hormones. The symptoms of hypothyroidism include lethargy, mental depression, weight gain and a tendency to seek out warm places. Hypothyroidism can also affect the coat and skin, causing hair loss and excessive dandruff.
Von Williebrand’s Disease (vWD) – is an autosomally (not sex-linked) inherited bleeding disorder with a prolonged bleeding time (somewhat similar to hemophilia in humans) and a mild to severe factor IX deficiency. A DNA test for vWD is now available. Carrier-to-carrier breedings, in theory, will produce puppies that are 25% clear, 50% carriers, and 25% affected. Ideally, only clear-to-clear or clear-to-carrier should occur, so that no puppies will be affected. Not all dogs that are vWD affected will have severe bleeding problems, but they ARE at risk whenever they need to have surgery or have an accident. Some unlucky affected dogs will actually bleed out from a needle stick or minor wound.
Cystinuria: Cystine, an amino acid, is one of the building blocks of proteins. Amino acids are part of a normal canine diet and are absorbed through the gut. Although they are filtered in the kidney, amino acids are normally reabsorbed by special kidney transporters and are not lost in the urine. In dogs with cystinuria, the cystine transporters in the kidney are defective. Cystinuric dogs often show signs of a recurrent urinary tract disorder. Clinical signs may start at almost any age. Affected dogs may have problems with urination. They may produce blood-tinged urine and pass calculi (kidney stones), or they may be unable to void urine despite numerous attempts. The urethra can become fully blocked, this can be fatal and veterinary care immediately needed.
Cataracts: As with humans, dogs can get cataracts, but the presence of cataracts in young dogs, called juvenile cataracts, have a hereditary foundation. Cataracts are diagnosed by means of an ophthalmoscopic exam. If the dog is in good health, cataracts can be surgically removed with usually good results.
Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA): is a family of diseases all involving the gradual deterioration of the retina. It is diagnosed by a retinoscopic exam or by means of an electroretinogram (ERG). Early in the disease, affected dogs become nightblind and lack the ability to see in dim light; later on daytime vision also fails. As their vision deteriorates, affected dogs adapt to their handicap very well, as long as their environment remains constant. Certain breeds are affected early in life, whereas in other breeds, PRA develops much later in onset.
Newfoundland History
The Newfoundland (named after it’s location in Canada) aided fishermen by hauling fishing nets out to sea and back to the boat. They were also known to jump overboard to rescue people, and bark to warn of reefs. They are strong swimmers, and can retrieve people and boats in turbulent waters. They are also used to carry goods between ships. There are many legends of Newfoundlands saving drowning victims by carrying lifelines to sinking ships. The dogs were kept in the “dog walk” on early sailing ships. If the sea was too choppy when land was sighted, the dog carried a line to land. The origin of this working breed is disputed. Some believe they evolved from the American Black Wolf (now extinct) or from the Tibetan Mastiff believed to have entered into North America from Asia. Other state that the Newfoundland developed from dogs transported to the New World and left by Vikings in 1000 A.D. with speculation that these dogs may have interbred and crossbred with the native wolves. The final theory is that they were a mixture between fifteenth and sixteenth century European explorer’s dogs. Perhaps the crossbreeding between Mastiffs, Pyrenean Sheep Dogs and Portuguese Water Dogs resulted in the Newfoundland.
During the 19th century, the breed became a European status symbol and at one time, Newfoundland dogs were the most popular import to Great Britain. The Newfoundland breed was used to re-establish the Alpine rescue dogs at the Hospice of St. Bernard after their numbers were decimated by a distemper epidemic. In Britain, the black-and-white variety became known as the “Landseer” after the famous artist who featured the breed in his painting.

Neapolitan Mastiff

Neapolitan Mastiff
Other Names: Italian Mastiff, Neapolitan Bulldog, Mastino Napoletano, Mastino and Neo Mastiff
Group: Working
The profile of this breed has recently increased with the use of this dog in the Harry Potter films. Hagrid the Giant has a Neapolitan named Fang, although he is described in the film as a Boarhound. The Neapolitan’s massive size and abundant wrinkles combine to make him one of the most intimidating dogs there is, helping them serve as excellent guard dogs. They are fearsome only in appearance not in temperament. In fact, they are highly affectionate and trustworthy dogs.

Hagrid's Dog Fang

Appearance: They have massive wrinkles and skin folds around the face and on the back accompanied by a large dewlap around the throat. The flat and wide head tends to be larger than the rest of the body. His eyes are almost hidden beneath the drooping upper lids, and the lower lid also droops
Coat: Short, thick and shiny. Colour: Typically blue, black, tawny of mahogany. The Neo can be either solid or brindle.
Height: 65-75cm
Weight: 50-68kg
Average Life Expectancy: 8 to 9 years
Temperament: The Neapolitan Mastiff was originally bred for guarding and fighting. Today the breed has a gentle, and steady temperament to friends and family, but is still wary of strangers and willing to go to great lengths to defend home and property. This loyal dog does well with children if socialised from an early age, but due to its large size, should be supervised when around small children. Neapolitan Mastiff breed dogs have a tendency to drool excessively, especially during the summer months. Moreover, male tend to drool more as compared to the females. They also tend to be quite messy with its food and water. They require plenty of affection and attention.
The Neapolitan Mastiff is NOT suitable for the average owner.
Training: A very intelligent breed of dog and learns his commands very quickly. Due to his large size, the Neapolitan Mastiff needs a confident trainer who is both calm and assertive and can maintain proper leadership, early training is vital to establish your control over him while you still can. As with all large breeds the Neopolitan must be socialised from an early age.
Exercise: As with all large breeds care must be taken with puppies and young dogs that they do not run around too much andabsolutely no jumping, so as to avoid bone and joint problems as an adult dog. Adults need at least two long walks a day to maintain their physical and mental health. Hot weather can be fatal to this breed, they don’t even need to be moving about in it to succumb to the heat. Please make sure that any exercise is given early in the morning or late in the evening, don’t be tempted to go for a nice Sunday afternoon stroll when it is very sunny or hot. More Info
Grooming: Coat care is minimal, but you must keep the skin within the wrinkles clean and dry, nails clipped, and teeth clean.
Neapolitan Health Issues
Bloat – though not a hereditary condition, frequently affects many dogs including this breed. This is a very serious condition. When a dog bloats, the stomach can turn and block, causing a build up of gas. Unless treated quickly, bloat can be fatal. Signs of bloat include futile attempts to vomit and to salivate. Bloat, which may lead to cardiovascular collapse, usually occurs when exercise too closely follows eating. The incidence of bloat may be lessened by feeding adult dogs twice a day and, of course, by allowing a dog time to digest before taking him for a run in the park. Click Here for more information
Hip dysplasia – a malformation of the hip joint resulting in a poor fit between the head of the femur bone and the hip socket. This condition can be alleviated by surgery, at some cost to dog and owner. Because dysplastic dogs often produce dysplastic puppies, buyers should ask if both the sire and the dam of the puppy in which they are interested have been rated clear of hip dysplasia. Do not take yes for an answer without seeing a certificate, and ask for a copy to take to your veterinarian.
Hypothyroidism – an endocrine disease that results in the abnormally low production of thyroid hormones. The symptoms of hypothyroidism include lethargy, mental depression, weight gain and a tendency to seek out warm places. Hypothyroidism can also affect the coat and skin, causing hair loss and excessive dandruff.
Cherry eye is the term used to refer to canine nictitans gland prolapse, a common eye condition in various dog breeds where the gland of the third eyelid prolapses and becomes visible. This condition usually must be corrected, mostly through surgery, because the gland produces some of the eye’s tears.
Neapolitan Mastiff History
Tracing its roots to the Molossus dogs that existed in Rome before Christ, the Neapolitan Mastiff has a rich and intriguing history. They were thought to have been brought to Rome by Alexander the Great when he traveled from Greece. Alexander the Great apparently prized the ancient Molossus dogs for fighting and defending, and that is what they were bred for. Alexander was given a pair of these dogs from Asia, supposedly after he defeated King Porus in Northern India in 326 B.C. So the breed is over 2000 years old, and may have had its roots in Asia. After they were brought to Rome they were used in animal fights in the arenas, pitted against leopards, bears, lions and even gladiators. They were also excellent guard dogs for their armies. They made their way to the Middle East as well, serving their duties there. Known for at least 2000 years ago in Southern Italy, the breed didn’t actually appear publicly until 1946 in the Naples dog show. It is thought that during this show, a painter named Piero Scanziani was so impressed that he bought his own Neos and began a kennel. He developed the breed into what it is today, and is thought of as the modern father of the breed. He created a standard for the breed and it was recognised by the Italian Kennel Club as the Mastino Napoletano.