ORIGIN AND HISTORY

Early settlers to the United States marveled at the richness and diversity of life in and along the Chesapeake Bay. Ducks have always been especially plentiful, and sportsmen with able retrievers have enjoyed great success there. So valued was the right kind of retriever that over time, a special dog was developed—one who could withstand the icy water and rough waves of the saltwater bay.

The breed’s development happened over much of the 19th century and had multiple influences. Two shipwrecked Newfoundland-type dogs, a black female named “Canton” and a red male named “Sailor,” are credited with founding the breed, but since these dogs were never bred to each other, it is likely that other breeds were also used. It is believed that Red Winchesters from Ireland and possibly the Irish Water Spaniel contributed to the Chesapeake Bay Retriever. Records show that some of these dogs could average a thousand ducks each fall, and the tougher the hunting conditions, the more they seemed to like it.

Read more about the Chesapeake Bay Retriever.

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Excerpted from World Atlas of Dog Breeds, 6th Edition. © 2009 T.F.H. Publications, Inc. Used by Permission.

ORIGIN AND HISTORY

An old English breed, the Fox Terrier dog was used in the 18th century by foxhunters who needed a compact, energetic, bold dog who would go to ground after quarry. The hunter would carry the dog on horseback in a sack or box while following the foxhounds in hot pursuit; when the fox took cover, the hunter would set the terrier down to rout it out. The Fox Terrier was bred to be a quick thinker, relying on his instincts rather than orders from his owner. History has dictated that he should be mostly white, with no red allowed in the coat, so that he could be easily distinguished from the fox in the fray of the hunt.
There are two types of Fox Terrier, distinguished by coat: Wire and Smooth. Although coat is the only major difference between them today, authorities believe that the Smooth and Wire probably have very different origins. Ancestors of the Smooth are believed to include England’s smooth-coated black and tan terrier, the Bull Terrier, and even the Greyhound and Beagle. The Wire is believed to have descended from the rough-coated black and tan terrier of Wales.

Read more about the Wire Fox Terrier.

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Excerpted from World Atlas of Dog Breeds, 6th Edition. © 2009 T.F.H. Publications, Inc. Used by Permission.

Country of Origin: Germany
Height: 21.5–26 inches
Weight: 48.5–88 pounds
Coat: Double coat with medium-length, straight, dense, harsh, close-lying outercoat and thick undercoat; may have neck ruff
Colors: Most colors allowed except white
Registries (with Group): AKC (Herding); UKC (Herding)

ORIGIN AND HISTORY

The German Shepherd Dog (“GSD”) is one of the most widely recognized breeds in the world, known and favored in many countries for its intelligence, trainability, adaptability and fortitude. The foundation of this breed can be traced to the work of Rittmeister Max von Stephanitz (known as the father of the breed) who, while attending a dog show, bought a working dog who possessed all the qualities he believed essential for a strong, capable German herder. In April 1899, von Stephanitz registered a dog named Horand von Grafrath with the Verein für Deutsche Schäferhunde, the club for German Shepherd Dogs that he cofounded. Von Stephanitz controlled and directed this club that promoted German Shepherds from 1899 to 1935. As demand for herding decreased, von Stephanitz was determined not to let his Shepherds decline. He encouraged the breed’s use by the police and the military—during World War I, there were 48,000 Shepherds “enlisted” in the German Army. Today, the GSD serves perhaps in more ways than any other breed—they excel at search and rescue, police work, army and sentry work, scent discrimination, as guide and assistance dogs, and of course, as companions.

PERSONALITY PROFILE

The accolades of the German Shepherd Dog include exceptional loyalty, bravery, and intelligence. As a dog who performs many special services and a host of tasks, he is by nature poised and unexcitable, with well-controlled nerves. He must be patient, quick thinking, discriminating, and keenly observant. The well-bred German Shepherd Dog is capable of excelling at any number of things, including family companion and protector. He is gentle and kind with children of all ages and amazingly tuned in to the people around him.

CARE REQUIREMENTS

• Exercise: The athletic, intelligent, and sensitive German Shepherd Dog does best with regular and vigorous exercise. He has been trained to do just about everything and anything, and performing work or engaging in sports and activities with people is what he is all about. As adaptable as he is, the GSD is not a dog who can sit inside all day waiting for the occasional outing. He must be stimulated physically and mentally to reach his potential.
• Grooming: The dense undercoat of the German Shepherd Dog requires regular brushing to keep it under control. He is a seasonally heavy shedder. Otherwise, the coat serves its protective and insulating purposes and takes care of itself. He should not be bathed frequently because it depletes the skin and coat of essential oils.
• Life Span: 10 to 14 years.
• Training: German Shepherd Dogs thrive with training. Used for years as service dogs, they also excel in sports such as competitive obedience, herding, agility, flyball, and many others. GSDs are quick learners who don’t bore easily, although they do appreciate a quick-thinking trainer who will keep them challenged.

Find a Nylabone chew, treat, or toy for your German Shepherd Dog or large dog!

Excerpted from World Atlas of Dog Breeds, 6th Edition. © 2009 T.F.H. Publications, Inc. Used by Permission.

Country of Origin: Siberia
Height: 20–23.5 inches
Weight: 35–60 pounds
Coat: Double coat with medium-length, straight, soft, somewhat smooth-lying outercoat and soft, dense undercoat
Colors: All colors from black to pure white; variety of markings on head are common
Registries (with Group): AKC (Working); UKC (Northern)

ORIGIN AND HISTORY

The nomadic Chukchi tribe of extreme Northeast Asia bred dogs of this type since ancient times to pull sledges and hunt reindeer. For centuries, continuing through the 19th century, the Chukchi people were famous for their excellent long-distance sled dogs. The tribe lived in permanent inland settlements and had to travel long distances to hunt the sea mammals that fed both people and dogs. A small sled dog was ideal—one who could exist on little food. Neither sprinters nor freighters, these dogs were endurance animals who could pull light loads of killed game at moderate speeds over long distances. Then known as the Siberian Chukchi, the breed first arrived in the United States in 1909, brought across the Bering Strait from Siberia to Alaska. The dogs took to life and work there as readily as they did in their homeland.

PERSONALITY PROFILE

The Siberian is fun loving, friendly, gentle, alert, and outgoing. As a puppy, he is playful and mischievous; as he matures, he becomes more dignified and reserved. Still, he is not possessive, territorial, or suspicious of strangers. He was bred to live and work as part of a team, so he does not like to be alone. The Siberian gets along well with children and other dogs, but he is predatory toward smaller animals. He has a tendency to howl rather than bark.

CARE REQUIREMENTS

• Exercise: The Siberian was bred to run tirelessly for long distances in front of a sled. Understandably, his need for ample exercise is inborn. He should have a large, escape-proof yard in which to run around, as well as a daily run or jog on a leash.
• Grooming: The Siberian’s coat requires only minimal attention, except during shedding season, when he loses his entire undercoat. He should be combed daily during those periods.
• Life Span: 10 to 14 years.
• Training: This dog was bred to run in front of a sled and make his own decisions. He also loves to chase small animals. Given those facts, no amount of training will make it safe for him to be off lead outside of a fenced area. He is intelligent and friendly, but he can be stubborn and may obey a command only if he sees a point to it.

Excerpted from World Atlas of Dog Breeds, 6th Edition. © 2009 T.F.H. Publications, Inc. Used by Permission.

Country of Origin: Great Britain
Height: 18–22 inches
Weight: 27–45 pounds
Coat: Two varieties—moderately long double coat is close, dense, weather resistant, with coarse, straight or wavy, moderately long outer coat and soft, short, dense undercoat; smooth double coat, short and coarser than rough variety
Colors: All colors, combinations, markings
Registries (with Group): AKC (Herding); UKC (Herding)

ORIGIN AND HISTORY

The Border Collie is a sheep herding dog developed in the border country between Scotland, England, and Wales. Hundreds of years ago, most breeds of dogs were not clearly defined, and the Border Collie was simply known as a collie, sheepdog, or shepherd’s dog. The formation of the International Sheep Dog Society in 1906 helped stimulate interest in the shepherd and establish the Border Collie’s modern heritage. The breeding programs started to favor the quality of “eye” (a hypnotic stare that wills the sheep to move and turn) and a more trainable nature in order to win herding trials. The first notable dog of type was Old Hemp, born in 1894, who is considered the founder of the modern Border Collie breed. Today, besides working as exceptional farm dogs, Border Collies are renowned for their prowess in the fast-paced sport of agility, where accuracy and speed matter.

PERSONALITY PROFILE

Border Collies are considered one of the most intelligent breeds of dog on the planet. They are energetic, sturdy, sensitive, and able to make snap decisions on their own. They are friendly with familiar people and standoffish with strangers. Most Border Collies are workaholics—driven to herd anything and everyone continuously, although occasionally a more laid-back temperament can be seen. All Border Collies are happiest when given a chore and need to have an outlet for their energy.

CARE REQUIREMENTS

• Exercise: The Border Collie needs lots of vigorous physical exercise to keep him content. He needs mental stimulation as well—chores, activities, attention, and tasks.
• Grooming: Both the coarser-haired and sleek-coated Border Collies need regular brushing to keep their coats free of dead hair and looking their best.
• Life Span: 12 to 15 years.
• Training: The Border Collie’s intense drive, desire, and intelligence make him exceptionally trainable.

Excerpted from World Atlas of Dog Breeds, 6th Edition. © 2009 T.F.H. Publications, Inc. Used by Permission.

Country of Origin: Great Britain
Height: 10–12 inches
Weight: 11 to 13 pounds
Coat: Three types, all of which are weatherproof—smooth/rough/broken
Colors: White predominating with black and/or tan markings; also solid white
Registries (with Group): KC (Terrier)

ORIGIN AND HISTORY

In Devonshire, England, in the 1800s, the Parson John “Jack” Russell began breeding terriers for use in foxhunting. Using Fox Terriers and possibly small Beagles and bull-and-terrier-type dogs, he developed a strain of terrier that he felt was best suited to accompany his foxhounds—running along beside them until the fox went to ground, at which time the terrier could chase after and bolt the fox from its den. His terriers needed to be bold enough to go to ground, yet restrained enough not to kill the prey and ruin the hunt. By the end of the 19^th century, terriers were used less for foxhunting (which had become prohibitively expensive) and were instead carried to fox and badger dens to kill or pull out quarry. During this time, all sorts of terriers were lumped together as “Jack Russell Terriers,” whether or not they possessed Parson Jack’s ideal of intelligence, stable temperament, and physical traits. Luckily for the breed, in 1904, a group of terrier fanciers in southern England was determined to save the Jack Russell Terrier and set the breed standard for the type favored by Russell.

PERSONALITY PROFILE

The Jack Russell Terrier is up for any challenge and any game. If he’s busy on the hunt, he is fearless and single-minded; at home, he is an enthusiastic companion, ready to explore and engage in any family activity. He isn’t shy about requesting attention, and he will practically insist on being in the center of things. Fun-loving, frisky, sporty, eager, and handsome, the Jack Russell Terrier is a great companion for someone who shares his enthusiasm for the outdoors and adventure.

CARE REQUIREMENTS

• Exercise: He must get several long walks daily, preferably to places where he can keep his hunting instincts alive—he will sniff down every hole and explore around every fallen branch. He is active and alert, and the occasional stroll will not satisfy his physical or mental needs for stimulation.
• Grooming: All three types of coats—smooth, wire, and broken—are easy to keep clean with occasional brushing and combing.
• Life Span: 12 to 14 years.
• Training: The intelligent Jack Russell Terrier is also independent minded. For training to work, it needs to be highly focused to keep him motivated. Short, frequent sessions with well-timed rewards are best. Socialization from puppyhood is important to develop his social skills and manners.

Excerpted from World Atlas of Dog Breeds, 6th Edition. © 2009 T.F.H. Publications, Inc. Used by Permission.

Country of Origin: Cuba
Height: 8.5–11.5 inches
Weight: 7–14 pounds
Coat: Double coat with long, soft, abundant, flat, wavy, or curly outercoat and woolly, not well-developed undercoat
Colors: All colors
Registries (with Group): AKC (Toy); UKC (Companion)

ORIGIN AND HISTORY

The Havanese is certainly a descendant of the Old World Bichon-type dog, but which type specifically is still a matter of speculation. Cubans believe that the dog originally came to their island with Italian sea captains, which would point to Malta or Bologna as the source. Others claim they came with the Spanish as they colonized the West Indies, which would indicate Tenerife or the Bichon Frise as the original ancestors. What is known is that the little white dogs were brought to Cuba from Europe in the 17^th century. They adapted to the climate and customs of the island and produced a smaller dog with a silkier coat, called the Blanquito de la Habana, or Havanese Silk Dog. This dog was a favorite of the Cuban aristocracy during the 18^th and 19^th centuries. The Havanese Silk Dogs were eventually crossed with French and German Poodles, which had become increasingly popular, and named Bichon Havanese, as they are sometimes still called.

PERSONALITY PROFILE

The Havanese is a delightful companion—responsive, alert, mindful, and fond of everyone. He gets along with people of all ages, as well as all kinds of other pets. Outgoing yet intelligent, he is a good watchdog, as he will alert to unusual activity, yet he is not prone to excessive barking or nervousness. His long association as a cherished companion continues to this day.

CARE REQUIREMENTS

• Exercise: The Havanese is a curious and delightful dog who enjoys getting out and about to exercise and socialize. He will gladly accompany his family wherever they go, whether it’s around the house, around the block, or around the world.
• Grooming: Pet owners typically keep their Havanese in a short, clipped coat, as the long hair needs a great deal of attention. Because the dead hair rarely sheds, it needs to be removed by brushing, which should be done several times a week.
• Life Span: 13 to 15 years.
• Training: A dog who thrives on the attention of his family, the Havanese is an eager and quick learner. A natural clown, the breed has been trained for the circus. He learns all kinds of tricks and requests with pleasure, as long as he is taught with positive, reward-based methods.

Excerpted from World Atlas of Dog Breeds, 6th Edition. © 2009 T.F.H. Publications, Inc. Used by Permission.

Country of Origin: United States
Height: 18–22 inches
Weight: 30–60 pounds
Coat: Glossy, smooth, close, fairly stiff
Colors: Any color, pattern, combination except merle
Registries (with Group): UKC (Terrier)

ORIGIN AND HISTORY

The American Pit Bull Terrier descends from early Greek Mastiff-type dogs called Molossians, who found their way into fighting arenas throughout the Roman Empire. Developed from bull and terrier types, APBTs were originally used by butchers to manage bulls and by hunters to help catch and hold wild boars and other game. In England, these tasks evolved to become the sports of bull- and bear baiting, the act of pitting dogs against bulls or bears, until these blood sports were outlawed in 1835 and dog fighting sprang up in its place.

American Pit Bull Terriers succeeded in the fighting ring by being tenacious, athletic, strong, intelligent, and courageous. Outside of the fighting ring, these dogs gained notoriety for their strong, handsome presentation and loyal, affectionate natures with their families. In fact, the breed quickly became popular in the United States as a hunting dog and family companion, and dog fighting was outlawed in most states by the 1860s. Today, dog fighting is illegal in most countries, including the United States, but the APBT’s negative reputation for being a fighting dog has stayed with him. Those who own and admire him for who he really is—and do so responsibly—hold the future of the breed in their hands.

PERSONALITY PROFILE

When raised and trained with respect and knowledge, there is no finer companion than the American Pit Bull Terrier. A properly bred APBT is kind and caring toward children, intelligent and easily trained, loving, playful, expressive, faithful, and versatile. However, he is often aggressive toward other dogs and may see smaller animals as prey. He is adept at herding, guarding, hunting, and weight pulling.

CARE REQUIREMENTS

• Exercise: The high-energy American Pit Bull Terrier needs several walks a day to keep him physically fit and mentally challenged. The walks should also be occasions to properly introduce an APBT to different people so that he becomes well socialized.
• Grooming: The APBT’s short, smooth coat is easily managed with regular brushing with a firm-bristled brush and an occasional bath.
• Life Span: 12 years.
• Training: Responsive and smart, the APBT is a relatively easy breed to train and has excelled in many areas that demand a high level of aptitude. A training issue with this breed can be how others perceive him, which makes being out with the APBT—who needs the exposure to all sorts of people and places to help him be a confident, trusting adult—sometimes difficult.

Excerpted from World Atlas of Dog Breeds, 6th Edition. © 2009 T.F.H. Publications, Inc. Used by Permission.

Country of Origin: France
Height: 22–27 inches
Weight: 65–100 pounds
Coat: Double coat with long, coarse, shiny, hard, dry outercoat lying flat against body with slightly wavy locks and fine, tight undercoat; mustache and beard
Colors: Black, shades of gray, shades of tawny
Registries (with Group): AKC (Herding); UKC (Herding)

ORIGIN AND HISTORY

The need for a large herding dog who could both control and protect the flock led to the development of the Briard, a French herder who has been around since the Middle Ages (and possibly longer). Through the ages, the Briard has earned high praises: Charlemagne gave braces of Briards to friends; Napoleon took them on his military campaigns; Thomas Jefferson imported several for use on American farms; and Lafayette had Briards sent to his American estate. The Briard was so valuable to the French war efforts—carrying supplies to the front lines, finding wounded soldiers, transporting ammunition—that he was named the official dog of the French army.

PERSONALITY PROFILE

The Briard is a big dog with a big personality: He can be a clown, a tease, a show-off, gentlemanly, and even a “reserved philosopher.” He can be reserved with strangers, but his loyalty and bravery make him a natural guardian of home and family. He is a sensitive soul, and unkind or unjust treatment can make the Briard skittish and even aggressive. However, enthusiastic and appreciative training and care will yield an even-tempered, affectionate dog.

CARE REQUIREMENTS

• Exercise: The Briard needs regular outings that include some vigorous form of exercise. Happiest with a job or a purpose, he becomes restless if left to his own devices.
• Grooming: The long, double coat of the Briard needs to be brushed several times a week to prevent tangling. The coarseness of the coat keeps dirt from sticking to it, and the Briard sheds very little, but without attention, the coat can become disheveled and uncomfortable for him.
• Life Span: 10 to 12 years.
• Training: A smart, willing dog, the Briard is a quick study. However, a stern or harsh manner or tone will backfire and bring out his stubborn nature. He will respond to and thrive only with positive training.

Excerpted from World Atlas of Dog Breeds, 6th Edition. © 2009 T.F.H. Publications, Inc. Used by Permission.

Country of Origin: Switzerland
Height: 23–27.5 inches
Weight: 80–110 pounds
Coat: Thick, soft, silky, fairly long; slightly wavy or straight
Colors: Tricolor (black, rust, white)
Registries (with Group): AKC (Working); UKC (Guardian)

ORIGIN AND HISTORY

The Bernese Mountain Dog is one of four varieties of Swiss Mountain Dogs, which include the Appenzeller Sennenhunde, the Entlebucher Mountain Dog, and the Greater Swiss Mountain Dog. The breed was named after the area in Switzerland where he was developed: Berne. The breed traces back to the Roman invasion of Helvetia (Switzerland) 2,000 years ago. It is likely that Caesar’s legions brought mastiff-type dogs prized for their guarding ability who crossed with native flock-guarding dogs able to withstand the severe weather of the Alps. The Bernese Dog became a general farm worker and flock guardian and was used by the weavers of the Berne district as a draft dog. On market day, these great, patient dogs would be seen pulling carts piled high with dairy products or woven baskets into the villages.

PERSONALITY PROFILE

If the Bernese Mountain Dog looks like a black bear from a distance, up close he’s really a teddy bear—friendly, easygoing, and extremely huggable. While the even-tempered Berner retains his watchdog instincts and is alert to anyone or anything that may be moving in on his family, he is never fierce or aggressive. The breed is boisterous in puppyhood and retains a playful, outgoing personality as he grows up—some say he is slow to mature. He loves children and makes an excellent family dog.

CARE REQUIREMENTS

• Exercise: The playful yet lumbering Berner needs his exercise but is content with several strolls around the block. Many Berner owners do draft work and carting with these large dogs, which keeps the Berner fit and happy.
• Grooming: The Berner’s double coat sheds—and sheds a lot seasonally. He needs to be brushed several times a week to remove dead hair and allow for new growth. He looks great after a bath, although his double coat takes time to dry.
• Life Span: 7 to 10 years.
• Training: Focused on his family and quick to learn, the Berner takes well to training. He is sensitive, so gentle, positive training is essential. He is fairly eager to please and is up for trying most things that involve being with his owners.

Excerpted from World Atlas of Dog Breeds, 6th Edition. © 2009 T.F.H. Publications, Inc. Used by Permission.