Welsh Terrier

Overview

He may look like a small Airedale, but the Welsh Terrier has his own personality. It’s certainly a strong personality, and no wonder–he was bred to hunt badgers, foxes, and otters. Although not many folks hunt badgers these days, hunting cookies in the yard is a solid alternative.

Smart as can be, this party boy excels in agility, flyball, tracking,…

Papillon

The Papillon descends from the toy spaniels that are frequently portrayed in paintings by the Old Masters, from as far back as the 16th century. He’s highly active and is a wonderful competitor in agility and obedience. His sparkling personality makes him a favorite of all who meet him.

Overview The Papillon, whose…

Kuvasz

The Kuvasz is a large, white flock-guarding dog who hails from Hungary. A one-family dog, he’s protective of his people and suspicious of strangers. The Kuvasz thinks for himself and can be challenging to train.

Overview

The Kuvasz (pronounced KOO-vahss; the plural is Kuvaszok, pronounced KOO-vah-sock) is probably the oldest of the three ancient Hungarian breeds. He has a regal bearing…

Pocket Beagle

Smaller than the average Beagle, these compact scenthounds are merry and fun-loving, but they’re still hounds and as such require patience and creative training techniques to overcome their sometimes stubborn nature.

Overview

As early as the 13th century, nobles hunted with packs of tiny Beagles. Known as “glove Beagles,” because they reportedly fit in the palm of a heavy leather hunting…

Weimaraner

Originally bred as a gundog to handle big game like deer and bear, the “Silver Ghost” was a highly sought-after breed in its native Germany. Today, these elegant but demanding dogs can still be found out on the hunting grounds, but can also make a fine family friend if well exercised. Overview

Your first exposure to the Weimaraner may have been…

Briard

Underneath the Briard’s long, shaggy coat lies a bold spirit and keen intelligence. True to his French roots, he can be aloof with strangers, but is affectionate and loving toward members of his pack. Bred as a herding and guard dog to protect flocks and fight off predators, he was adopted as a working dog during World War I…

Akita

The Akita is a large and powerful dog with a noble and intimidating presence. He was originally used for guarding royalty and nobility in feudal Japan. The Akita also tracked and hunted wild boar, black bear, and sometimes deer. He is a fearless and loyal guardian of his family. The Akita does not back down from challenges and does…

Becoming your puppy’s leader

For the past 25 or so years there has been a lot of talk in the dog world about being your dog’s leader. Some feel this aptly describes the role we should take with our dogs and others feel it is a word too closely associated with a sort of military approach to the canine/human relationship and implies a…

Bringing home a new pup? Take a test drive.

Once you have your general list started on paper, plan to visit local dog training schools to make a more specific assessment of types of dogs that you might consider most suitable for your family. This is a great place to meet loads of puppies and adult dogs, and to learn a bit more about training and socialization  prior…

Dog training: Off, take it, and thank you

These are three very useful commands which may be conveniently taught during your dog’s dinner time. By hand-feeding the initial portion of your puppy’s supper, it learns to take the food gently, and it may be taught the instructions ” Off!” and “Take it!.” “Off!” means don’t touch the food unless told to “Take…

Raising a puppy: Preventing object guarding

Object-guarding, a common problem with family dogs, will develop throughout puppyhood if owners allow it to. Owners may fail to notice their adolescent dog becoming increasingly possessive and protective. Some may actually encourage their puppy’s protective displays, thinking they are cute.

It is natural for dogs to protect their possessions. In the wild, a wolf would hardly pop next door…