Everand Logo

Welcome to Everand!

  • Discover millions of ebooks, audiobooks, and so much more with a free trial

    From $11.99/month after trial. Cancel anytime.

    The Howell Book of Dogs: The Definitive Reference to 300 Breeds and Varieties
    The Howell Book of Dogs: The Definitive Reference to 300 Breeds and Varieties
    The Howell Book of Dogs: The Definitive Reference to 300 Breeds and Varieties
    Ebook1,086 pages7 hours

    The Howell Book of Dogs: The Definitive Reference to 300 Breeds and Varieties

    By Liz Palika

    4/5

    ()

    Read preview

    About this ebook

    The Howell Book of Dogs is a hardcover, four-color book that will serve as a timeless and authoritative reference for dog owners and those who are considering getting a dog. Approximately 300 breeds and varieties are covered, encompassing AKC breeds, UKC breeds, and many rare breeds, such as the Eurasier, Jagd Terrier, Mi Ki, and Thai Ridgeback. One or more color photos of each breed will supplement text that describes the breed’s origins, physical characteristics, and personality traits. In addition, the book includes an informative section about dog care and training, making it the only reference book dog owners will ever need.
    LanguageEnglish
    PublisherTurner Publishing Company
    Release dateNov 12, 2007
    ISBN9780470175859
    The Howell Book of Dogs: The Definitive Reference to 300 Breeds and Varieties
    Author

    Liz Palika

    Liz Palika trains dogs in obedience and travels with her dogs doing canine therapy. She has written over thirty books, including The Complete Idiot's Guide to Raising a Puppy and Save That Dog! She resides in Oceanside, California, with her three dogs, Dax, Kes, and Riker.

    Read more from Liz Palika

    Related to The Howell Book of Dogs

    Related ebooks

    Dogs For You

    View More
    View More

    Related podcast episodes

    Related articles

    • UNLIMITED

      Leave It To The Professionals?

      May 12, 2021

      Leave It To The Professionals?
      5 min read

    • UNLIMITED

      Dogs For Defense

      Jun 18, 2019

      Dogs For Defense
      13 min read

    • UNLIMITED

      Positive Reinforcement

      May 20, 2020

      Positive Reinforcement
      1 min read

    • UNLIMITED

      The Case For Raw Pet Food

      Nov 27, 2020

      The Case For Raw Pet Food
      11 min read

    • UNLIMITED

      The Best Tools To TRAIN YOUR PUPPY

      Mar 30, 2020

      Perfect for toilet training and down time, a dog crate acts as a den for your pup. But it’s important not to overuse the crate. According to RSPCA Victoria, while it’s a fantastic tool for toilet training puppies and preventing destruction, a dog of

      1 min read

    • UNLIMITED

      Hormones May Contribute to ‘Leash Aggression’ in Dogs

      Oct 3, 2017

      Hormones may be partly to blame for dogs’ “leash aggression,” new research suggests. Dogs with what is known as “leash aggression” may bark, growl, or lunge at other dogs during walks, setting the scene for a tense and potentially dangerous interacti

      4 min read

    • UNLIMITED

      The Fur-Baby Generation

      Mar 10, 2021

      The Fur-Baby Generation
      3 min read

    • UNLIMITED

      In The World Of Crochet

      May 31, 2022

      Woof! How to Celebrate National Dog Day! Pardon the dog-related pun: throw a stick at any calendar and it will land on a day on which a holiday is celebrated. I’m not referring to commonly known religious or legal holidays, I’m talking about the 1,00

      3 min read

    • UNLIMITED

      Paws For Thought

      Aug 16, 2022

      Paws For Thought
      2 min read

    • UNLIMITED

      Better Pets

      Mar 8, 2023

      Better Pets
      2 min read

    • UNLIMITED

      7 Ways To… Help Animals

      Oct 22, 2021

      7 Ways To… Help Animals
      5 min read

    • UNLIMITED

      Come To The Rescue

      Feb 15, 2024

      Come To The Rescue
      3 min read

    • UNLIMITED

      Hound Decisions

      Apr 1, 2021

      Hound Decisions
      4 min read

    • UNLIMITED

      How To Choose The Right Dog Breed For You

      Sep 16, 2022

      The coronavirus pandemic has given many of us more time in our own homes, leading some households to make lifestyle changes, such as acquiring a four-legged friend. According to the Pet Food Manufacturers’ Association (PFMA), 3.2 million households i

      4 min read

    • UNLIMITED

      Puppy Love

      Jun 29, 2023

      Puppy Love
      4 min read

    • UNLIMITED

      Letters

      Sep 7, 2022

      Letters
      3 min read

    • UNLIMITED

      The Bulls of 2018

      Aug 6, 2018

      The Bulls of 2018
      6 min read

    • UNLIMITED

      Dawn Neesom Mind Of My Own

      Nov 15, 2022

      It’s not big and it’s not clever but sometimes there’s nothing like the ‘f’ word to sum up how you feel. But rather than the chavvy thicko this makes me sound, I can now claim that it’s good for me. And you. And science is on our side. Researcher

      3 min read

    Related categories

    Reviews for The Howell Book of Dogs

    4/5

    1 rating0 reviews

    What did you think?

    Tap to rate

    Review must be at least 10 words

      Book preview

      The Howell Book of Dogs - Liz Palika

      THE

      HOWELL

      BOOK OF

      DOGS

      The Definitive Reference to

      300 Breeds and Varieties

      LIZ PALIKA

      Wiley Publication, Inc.

      This book is printed on acid-free paper.

      Copyright © 2007 by Wiley Publishing, Inc., Hoboken, New Jersey. All rights reserved.

      Howell Book House

      Published by Wiley Publishing, Inc., Hoboken, New Jersey

      No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording, scanning or otherwise, except as permitted under Sections 107 or 108 of the 1976 United States Copyright Act, without either the prior written permission of the Publisher, or authorization through payment of the appropriate per-copy fee to the Copyright Clearance Center, 222 Rosewood Drive, Danvers, MA 01923, (978) 750-8400, fax (978) 646-8600, or on the web at www.copyright.com. Requests to the Publisher for permission should be addressed to the Legal Department, Wiley Publishing, Inc., 10475 Crosspoint Blvd., Indianapolis, IN 46256, (317) 572-3447, fax (317) 572-4355, or online at http://www.wiley.com/go/permissions.

      Wiley, the Wiley Publishing logo, Howell Book House, and related trademarks are trademarks or registered trademarks of John Wiley & Sons, Inc. and/or its affiliates. All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners. Wiley Publishing, Inc. is not associated with any product or vendor mentioned in this book.

      The publisher and the author make no representations or warranties with respect to the accuracy or completeness of the contents of this work and specifically disclaim all warranties, including without limitation warranties of fitness for a particular purpose. No warranty may be created or extended by sales or promotional materials. The advice and strategies contained herein may not be suitable for every situation. This work is sold with the understanding that the publisher is not engaged in rendering legal, accounting, or other professional services. If professional assistance is required, the services of a competent professional person should be sought. Neither the publisher nor the author shall be liable for damages arising here from. The fact that an organization or Website is referred to in this work as a citation and/or a potential source of further information does not mean that the author or the publisher endorses the information the organization or Website may provide or recommendations it may make. Further, readers should be aware that Internet Websites listed in this work may have changed or disappeared between when this work was written and when it is read.

      For general information on our other products and services or to obtain technical support please contact our Customer Care Department within the U.S. at (800) 762-2974, outside the U.S. at (317) 572-3993 or fax (317) 572-4002.

      Library of Congress Cataloging-in-Publication Data:

      Palika, Liz, 1954–

      Howell book of dogs / Liz Palika.

      p. cm.

      Includes bibliographical references and index.

      ISBN-13: 978-0-470-00921-5 (cloth : alk. paper)

      ISBN-10: 0-470-00921-7 (alk. paper)

      1. Dogs. 2. Dog breeds. I. Title.

      SF426.P324 2007

      636.7—dc22

      2007008051

      Printed in the United States of America

      10   9   8   7   6   5   4   3   2   1

      Book design by Melissa Auciello-Brogan

      Book production by Wiley Publishing, Inc. Composition Services

      Table of Contents

      Introduction

      Part I: Living with Dogs

      Chapter 1: A Dog for You and Your Family

      The Realities of Dog Ownership.

      Dogs Come in All Sizes, Shapes, and Temperaments.

      Finding a Puppy (or Dog).

      Chapter 2: Bringing Your New Friend Home

      Before Your New Dog Comes Home

      Get Everything Ready

      Bring Him Home!.

      Socialization

      Chapter 3: Living with Your Dog

      Living with a Dog.

      Establishing Household Rules

      You Are Your Dog’s Leader

      Your New Dog and Your Kids.

      Your New Dog and Other Pets

      Making Time for Play

      Chapter 4: Keeping Your Dog Healthy

      Choosing a Veterinarian

      Canine Diseases and Vaccinations

      Internal Parasites

      Spaying, Neutering, and Breeding.

      Basic Home Health Care.

      When to Call the Veterinarian

      Emergency First Aid

      A First-Aid Kit for Your Dog

      Disaster Planning

      Chapter 5: Grooming Your Dog

      Caring for the Coat.

      A Daily Massage

      Keeping Eyes, Ears, and Teeth Clean and Toenails Trimmed.

      Combating Fleas, Ticks, and Mites

      Grooming Basics

      Professional Grooming

      Chapter 6: Training for Life

      Canine Communication

      Training Tools and Techniques

      Teaching the Basic Commands

      Using These Commands

      Have Fun as You Continue Training

      Chapter 7: Preventing and Solving Problems

      What Can You Do?.

      Specific Problems

      When You Need Professional Help

      Chapter 8: Responsible Dog Ownership (and the Law)

      Leashing Your Dog

      Keeping Your Dog Safe

      Protecting Dogs in Vehicles.

      The Wastes Dogs Leave Behind

      When Dogs Bark (and Bark and Bark)

      When Dogs Bite

      Breed-Specific Legislation

      Part II: Breed Profiles

      A

      Affenpinscher

      Afghan Hound.

      Airedale Terrier.

      Akbash Dog

      Akita

      Alapaha Blue Blood Bulldog

      Alaskan Klee Kai

      Alaskan Malamute

      American Bulldog

      American Eskimo Dog.

      American Foxhound.

      American Hairless Terrier

      American Pit Bull Terrier

      American Staffordshire Terrier

      American Water Spaniel

      Anatolian Shepherd Dog

      Appenzeller Sennenhunde

      Australian Cattle Dog

      Australian Kelpie

      Australian Shepherd

      Australian Terrier

      Azawakh.

      B

      Basenji

      Basset Hound.

      Beagle.

      Bearded Collie

      Beauceron

      Bedlington Terrier

      Belgian Laekenois.

      Belgian Malinois

      Belgian Sheepdog

      Belgian Tervuren

      Bergamasco Sheepdog

      Berger des Pyrenees

      Berger Picard

      Bernese Mountain Dog

      Bichon Frise

      Black Mouth Cur.

      Black Russian Terrier

      Black and Tan Coonhound

      Bloodhound

      Bolognese.

      Border Collie

      Border Terrier.

      Borzoi

      Boston Terrier

      Bouvier des Flandres

      Boxer

      Boykin Spaniel

      Bracco Italiano

      Briard.

      Brittany

      Brussels Griffon

      Bulldog

      Bullmastiff

      Bull Terrier.

      C

      Cairn Terrier

      Canaan Dog

      Canadian Eskimo Dog.

      Cane Corso

      Cardigan Welsh Corgi

      Carolina Dog

      Caucasian Ovtcharka

      Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

      Chart Polski

      Chesapeake Bay Retriever.

      Chihuahua

      Chinese Crested

      Chinese Foo Dog

      Chinese Shar-Pei

      Chinook.

      Chow Chow.

      Clumber Spaniel

      Cockapoo.

      Cocker Spaniel

      Collie

      Coonhound

      Coton de Tulear

      Curly-Coated Retriever

      D

      Dachshund.

      Dalmatian

      Designer Dogs

      Doberman Pinscher

      Dogo Argentino

      Dogo Canario

      Dogue de Bordeaux

      Dutch Shepherd.

      E

      English Cocker Spaniel

      English Foxhound

      English Setter

      English Shepherd

      English Springer Spaniel.

      English Toy Spaniel

      Entlebucher Sennenhund.

      Eurasier

      F

      Field Spaniel.

      Fila Brasileiro

      Finnish Spitz

      Flat-Coated Retriever

      Fox Terrier (Smooth)

      Fox Terrier (Toy)

      Fox Terrier (Wire)

      French Bulldog.

      G

      German Pinscher

      German Shepherd Dog

      German Shorthaired Pointer

      German Wirehaired Pointer

      Giant Schnauzer.

      Golden Retriever

      Gordon Setter

      Great Dane

      Great Pyrenees

      Greater Swiss Mountain Dog

      Greyhound.

      H

      Harrier

      Havanese

      Hovawart

      I

      Ibizan Hound.

      Icelandic Sheepdog.

      Irish Red and White Setter.

      Irish Setter

      Irish Terrier

      Irish Water Spaniel

      Irish Wolfhound.

      Italian Greyhound

      J

      Jack Russell Terrier

      Jagd Terrier.

      Japanese Chin

      K

      Kai Ken

      Kangal Dog

      Karelian Bear Dog

      Keeshond

      Kerry Blue Terrier

      Komondor

      Kuvasz

      L

      Labradoodle

      Labrador Retriever

      Lakeland Terrier

      Large Munsterlander

      Leonberger

      Lhasa Apso.

      Louisiana Catahoula Leopard Dog.

      M

      Maltese.

      Manchester Terrier

      Mastiff

      Mi-Ki.

      Miniature Australian Shepherd.

      Miniature Bull Terrier

      Miniature Pinscher.

      Miniature Schnauzer

      Mixed-Breed Dog.

      N

      Neapolitan Mastiff

      Newfoundland

      Norrbottenspets

      Norwegian Elkhound.

      Norwegian Lundehund

      Norwich and Norfolk Terriers

      Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever

      O

      Old English Sheepdog

      Otterhound

      P

      Papillon

      Parson Russell Terrier

      Patterdale Terrier

      Pekingese

      Pembroke Welsh Corgi.

      Peruvian Inca Orchid

      Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen

      Pharaoh Hound

      Pointer

      Polish Tatra Sheepdog

      Pomeranian

      Poodle (Toy).

      Poodle (Miniature).

      Poodle (Standard).

      Portuguese Podengo

      Portuguese Pointer

      Portuguese Water Dog

      Pudelpointer.

      Pug.

      Puli

      Pumi

      Pyrenean Mastiff

      R

      Rat Terrier

      Rhodesian Ridgeback

      Rottweiler

      S

      Saint Bernard

      Saluki

      Samoyed.

      Schapendoes.

      Schipperke

      Scottish Deerhound

      Scottish Terrier

      Sealyham Terrier.

      Shetland Sheepdog.

      Shiba Inu

      Shih Tzu.

      Shiloh Shepherd.

      Siberian Husky.

      Silken Windhound.

      Silky Terrier

      Small Munsterlander Pointer

      Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier

      South African Boerboel

      Spanish Greyhound

      Spanish Mastiff

      Spanish Water Dog

      Spinone Italiano

      Staffordshire Bull Terrier

      Standard Schnauzer

      Stumpy Tail Cattle Dog

      Swedish Vallhund.

      T

      Thai Ridgeback

      Tibetan Mastiff

      Tibetan Spaniel

      Tibetan Terrier

      Tosa Ken

      V

      Vizsla

      W

      Weimaraner

      Welsh Springer Spaniel.

      Welsh Terrier

      West Highland White Terrier

      Whippet.

      White German Shepherd Dog

      Wirehaired Pointing Griffon

      Wirehaired Vizsla

      X

      Xoloitzcuintli

      Y

      Yorkshire Terrier

      Acknowledgments

      Abook such is this is never the work of only one person; that’s almost impossible. Many people shared the vision and enthusiasm for this project and all of them deserve credit. Therefore, I would like to thank many of the people who contributed to this book.

      First and foremost, my good friends Sheri and Buddy Wachtstetter deserve a huge round of applause. Both are wonderful photographers and contributed photos to the book. But most of all, as photo editors for the book, they organized the photos as they came in, screened them as to quality, cropped when necessary, and did all those other things that photo editors do. I could not have done this book without both Sheri and Buddy. Thank you!

      We received photos from all over the United States, Canada, England, Ireland, Poland, and other European countries. We got photos from South Africa, Mexico, and places in between. People were incredibly generous with photos of their favorite breed, and all of those contributors deserve thanks. Unfortunately, we could not use all of the photos we were sent; even a book as large as this one has its limits. But I thank everyone who helped; I do appreciate your efforts.

      Several professional photographers helped us, too. They went to dog shows, agility trials, and other dog events to get us just the right photos. When one photo wasn’t quite perfect, they would go out and get another one. Mary Fish Arango, Melinda Peters, and Terry Albert—Sheri, Buddy, and I all thank you from the bottom of our hearts.

      I also want to thank the trainers and students at Kindred Spirits Canine Education Center in Vista, California. The trainers (Petra Burke, Kate Abbott, Cayla Horn, Mary Moore, and Maggie Moore) not only organized photo shoots for us, but also posed their own dogs for photos illustrating the text in Part I. Many of Kindred Spirits’ students assisted, too, and brought their dogs to photo shoots. Thanks, everyone!

      There are many other people I would love to thank, but I don’t have the room to do so. I talked via phone, e-mail, and letter with hundreds of people about their breed of choice so that I would have accurate, up-to-date information. To all of you, thanks!

      Finally, to my agent, Marilyn Allen: You are wonderful, but I’ve told you that before. To my editor, Pam Mourouzis: Thanks for trusting me. To my editor, Jennifer Connolly: Thanks for making me better! And last but certainly not least, to my husband, Paul: Thanks for your support, your faith in me, and your patience!

      About the Author

      Liz Palika has been writing professionally since 1985, when she was first published in Dog Fancy magazine. Since then she has written more than 50 books, more than 1,000 magazine articles and columns, and has been called as an expert resource many times, including for Good Morning, America . She has been published in Dog Fancy, Dog World, Cats, Cat Fancy, AKC Gazette , and other pet publications, as well as Newsweek, The Saturday Evening Post , and Women First .

      Her books include KISS Guide to Raising a Puppy, which is becoming a favorite with new puppy owners. Breeders, including Joel Towart of Bellington German Shepherds in Fallbrook, California, are sending the book home with new puppy buyers. The Ultimate Dog Treat Cookbook received rave reviews in magazines and newspapers all over the country, including USA Today. All Dogs Need Some Training was listed by Pet Life Magazine as one of the ten best training books available to dog owners.

      Liz’s books have been awarded many honors. Australian Shepherd: Champion of Versatility won Best Breed Book from Dog Writers Association of America and Best Nonfiction Book from San Diego Book Writers. Save That Dog won best General Reference Book from Dog Writers and the first ASPCA Pet Overpopulation Answers Award from the ASPCA. Liz’s work has also won awards from Cat Writers and Purina. Liz was honored with the San Diego Leadership Award, was a North County Woman of Merit, and in 2005 was awarded Dog Writers Distinguished Service Award. For a complete list of Liz’s work, please go to www.lizpalika.com.

      Liz has also been teaching dog obedience classes for more than twenty-five years. Although she has trained at all levels, from puppy through advanced obedience, her primary focus is pet dogs. Her goal is to help pet owners have a well-behaved family companion that will spend his life with his family. She also teaches agility, trick training, carting, and therapy dog classes. For more about Liz’s training, go to www.kindredspiritsk9.com.

      Introduction

      I  have been teaching dog obedience classes for dog owners and their dogs for more than twenty-five years and have been involved in purebred dog rescue efforts for almost as long. I have been writing about dogs professionally since 1985. Unfortunately, far too often I see owners and dogs who are horribly mismatched. Some owners are too soft and passive for a very pushy, dominant breed. Some cannot provide enough exercise for a high-activity breed, while others expect something the dog simply cannot give. These relationships rarely succeed, which is very sad. When questioned, many owners say, No one told me that about the breed! or, worse yet, the dog was acquired with no research having been done at all.

      In the ideal world, I envision a dog and owner well-suited to each other, forming a partnership unlike any other. The dog would be in a home where he is loved for life and treasured for what he is. This book is, I hope, a huge step in that direction.

      The Chapters in Part I

      The chapters in Part I take you through the process of choosing the right dog and what to expect afterwards. These chapters should serve as a resource for you in the weeks, months, and years after your dog joins your family.

      The Breed Profiles in Part II

      The breed profiles provide a bit of history on each breed; a brief description of the breed’s physical conformation; information about grooming requirements, exercise needs, and activity level; suggested training and socialization requirements, and any potential jobs or sports that the dog might enjoy. There are also suggestions for the type of owner best suited for this breed; whether the breed is good with children, cats, and other small pets; and the most common health concerns in the breed. This information is fascinating, or at least I found it so! In addition to providing a lot of information about these breeds, my goal is to help you choose the right dog and breed for your family.

      The information in these breed profiles was acquired from a variety of sources. I talked to dog trainers and veterinarians who see these breeds all the time—often at their worst. I also questioned people who have been involved in the breeds in a variety of ways: breeders, owners, exhibitors, and even quite a few who use a particular breed as working dogs. I corresponded with national breed clubs and performance sports clubs. I queried everyone about many breed traits, but I specifically asked everyone, What should people know about this breed before they acquire one? I found that most people I talked to were very honest, sharing the good and less than good (or the more difficult) points of their breed. I appreciated their honesty and I think you will, too. My hope is that with better knowledge and awareness of breed characteristics, we can prevent problems in many human-canine relationships in the future.

      BREED IN BRIEF BOXES

      The Breed in Brief boxes give you quick, basic information—a very brief summary of the information given in the text. This is particularly helpful if you are looking for a breed within a certain size range or want to compare activity levels between breeds, for example. Because the information in the breed boxes is very limited, I have used some abbreviations. Here is a breakdown of the material in these boxes.

      The first line contains the abbreviations of the larger registries that recognize that particular breed. I have focused on the American Kennel Club (AKC), United Kennel Club (UKC), and Canadian Kennel Club (CKC). If a breed is a part of the AKC’s Foundation Stock Service, it is listed as AKC FSS. Breeds not recognized by these larger registries may be recognized by the American Rare Breed Association (ARBA). Some breeds are governed by their own registries, and in those instances, the club is listed.

      The second line lists the breed’s primary occupation. The third shows the breed’s height at the shoulders and weight. These are often the sizes listed in the breed standard—the written description of the perfect dog of that breed. Individual dogs may be smaller or larger. The fourth line shows the average number of years this breed lives.

      The last three lines detail exercise, training, and grooming needs. Generally, I used the language detailed below. When there was something specific about a breed that should be pointed out, I deviated from the following descriptions. The fifth line gives a brief description of the breed’s activity level and exercise needs. This does require some explanation.

      Low activity level means the dog is a couch potato most of the time. A daily stroll and a game or two will keep him happy.

      Moderate exercise means the dog will enjoy a walk or two followed by some playtime, but then will be happy to take a nap.

      Needs vigorous daily exercise means exactly that; this is a high-energy dog who wants to stay active.

      The sixth line gives information about training.

      Easy to train means exactly that.

      Moderate training means the dogs will accept training but may be easily distracted, or like to think for themselves, or may be slow to mature.

      Difficult or challenge to train refers to dogs bred to think for themselves rather than take direction from people, or dogs that are not particularly compliant. It does not mean the dogs are not smart!

      Hard to keep challenged refers to breeds that may be easy to train initially, but the training must continue, as this breed will absorb it quickly and be ready to move on to something new. Comments about housetraining mean a number of owners, trainers, or breed experts have reported some type of difficulty with housetraining this breed.

      The last line refers to the efforts needed to keep this dog clean and neat. These efforts do not refer to conformation dog show grooming, but rather to those dogs living in a pet, performance, or working home.

      Easy to groom refers to those breeds that can be combed or brushed two to three times a week quickly and easily with a minimum of fuss.

      Moderate grooming means the breed may need more than minimal grooming, may develop tangles or mats, and may need additional care such as wrinkle cleaning or ear cleaning.

      Difficult grooming generally pertains to long-coated breeds, breeds that shed a considerable amount of coat, or those that need some very specific grooming skills, such as terriers needing to be hand-stripped.

      ONLINE RESOURCES

      There are many resources available to dog owners today via the Internet. Most of the breed clubs and many rescue clubs have very informative websites that detail breed histories, provide grooming advice, and give up-to-date health information as well as contact information. Many of these sites were quite helpful in providing expert breed information for the breed profiles in this book.

      I’ve compiled an appendix of online resource information for the breeds profiled in this book. You can find this appendix at www.wiley.com/go/howellbookofdogs. Unfortunately, at this writing, not all breeds covered in this book have an informational website (or, at least, not one in English). However, since websites come and go, if a breed is not listed in the online appendix, try doing a search for it anyway.

      Read On!

      As you read on, keep in mind that the information on these pages was provided by many different people who see dogs in a variety of situations: trainers, breeders, groomers, working dog handlers, performance sport participants, and pet owners. Even though only a few people could be quoted directly—primarily due to space restraints—their information is included. So as you think about the next breed you would like to own, take the wisdom of others to heart. This book is here to help you make the right decision and enjoy a happy, successful relationship with your dog.

      Enjoy!

      Part I

      Living

      with Dogs

      A Dog for You and Your Family

      Dogs are wonderful companions. You can share secrets with your dog, and she will never tell a soul. You can be happy, sad, tired, or even cranky with your dog, and she will still love you just as much. Dogs don’t care what we look like, how much money we make, or what kind of car we drive. They love us just the way we are. A dog can be the best friend you’ve ever had, but that only happens when you choose the right dog for you—the right breed (or mixture of breeds), as well as the right sex, age, and temperament. Owning a dog requires a commitment to support and care for the dog throughout her lifetime, usually fourteen to sixteen years.

      Caring for a dog requires your time and, certainly, some of your money. In addition, adding a dog to your family may require you to make some changes to your lifestyle. So, before you go get a dog, let’s take a look at both dog ownership and dogs in general so you can make the best choice possible, both for you and your future dog.

      The Realities of Dog Ownership

      Before you go looking for a dog, make sure you understand the realities of dog ownership. It can require a major change to your family, your schedule, your household routine, and, perhaps most importantly, your budget. On the positive side of dog ownership, a dog will make you laugh and will provide companionship. A dog will help you get more exercise and will increase your social opportunities. After all, it’s impossible to go for a walk with a dog without at least one person commenting on what a wonderful dog you have! However, a dog is also a responsibility that you will need to take seriously because this dog is dependent on you for everything.

      WHO WILL BE LIVING WITH THE DOG?

      Do you live alone? If so, then the decision whether to add a dog to your household is entirely up to you. No one can argue with you about your choice, but at the same time, you will be solely responsible for caring for the dog. Can you do it by yourself? It’s a big commitment.

      If you live with other people—roommates or your family—you all need to talk about getting a dog. Everyone needs to be happy with the idea of adding a dog to the household. If someone is unhappy about this decision, he could take out that displeasure on the dog. Even if he isn’t blatantly mean to the dog, the dog will know that this person dislikes her, which could result in behavior problems from the dog.

      If you have children, you will need to choose the right breed of dog (and the correct individual dog), as not all dogs are patient and tolerant enough for kids. You also will have to be able to spend time with both the kids and the dog so that the dog learns proper, respectful behavior around children. Without guidance, the dog (especially a young puppy) will think of the kids as fellow playmates (littermates) and will jump on them, bite, nip, and steal their food and toys, and could easily become a tyrant rather than a good friend.

      If the dog will be living with senior citizens, it is important to choose a breed and an individual dog that is calmer, less apt to paw and scratch fragile skin, and less likely to jump up and potentially knock someone down. Young puppies can be a lot of work, so for many seniors, adopting an older puppy or an adult dog is often the better choice.

      If you have other pets, be aware that not all dogs are friendly with other dogs, and some are not trustworthy with other animals, including horses, cats, rabbits, and ferrets. You’ll need to take this into consideration when you choose your new dog.

      Adding a dog to your family is a big commitment. Make sure you think through your decision and have agreement from everyone in the family. Bella, a Labrador Retriever, pictured with owners Kyle and Amy Gallagher.

      DO YOU HAVE TIME FOR A DOG?

      If you have never owned a dog, at least as an adult, you may not understand how much time a dog requires. Dogs are companion animals; that means they are happiest while spending time with their people. When isolated for hours at a time, day after day, many dogs develop bad behaviors (barking, digging, destructive chewing) out of loneliness and boredom. If you live alone and work long hours every day, don’t get a dog, unless you have a neighbor who will help you. If he or she will take your dog out a couple of times each day for a potty break, a walk, and a play session, then dog ownership might work. If a neighbor is not available, you might want to check into hiring a professional dog walker or taking the dog to doggy daycare. But look into these services before you get a dog, as they can be expensive. Otherwise, you might be better off with a pet who doesn’t require your companionship.

      Puppies and newly adopted adult dogs need time to bond with their new owners. Bonding is the deep commitment felt between a dog and her owner. It’s a sense of responsibility toward each other, and it doesn’t happen automatically; a bond takes time to form. During the first few weeks and even months that your dog lives with you, it’s important to spend several hours each day with her so that this bond can develop.

      Your new dog also will need some training, and that, too, takes time. Your new dog will need to learn all about housetraining and household rules, as well as proper social behavior. You also will need to schedule time to exercise and play with your dog and to groom her. As your dog grows up, you may want to participate in dog activities and sports. Those, too, take time.

      WILL YOU ENJOY LIFE WITH A DOG?

      Adding a dog to your life will change your life. For some people, it changes drastically. You will need to dog-proof your home because a dog’s tail can clear a coffee table of knickknacks in one wag. Puppies and young dogs like to chew and do not discriminate between leather chew toys and leather shoes. You will have to learn to put things away, close closet doors, and put up baby gates to head off trouble. Teaching a dog what is allowed to be touched and what isn’t takes time, and during that time you’ll need to prevent problems.

      You’ll have to dog-proof the backyard, too, by putting away tools and making sure that the kids keep their toys cleaned up, because those could easily become attractive chew toys. Also, keep in mind that dogs dig, so if you have a favorite garden, you’ll want to put a fence around it.

      A dog, and especially a puppy, may try your patience time and again. You can’t lose your temper; that is never effective, and it won’t help your dog learn. Instead, you’ll have to learn to control your emotions when problems happen and learn how to train your dog effectively.

      Life with a dog isn’t all problems, though. Dogs are great social icebreakers. It’s almost impossible to go for a walk without stopping to talk about your dog with at least one person. If you have a puppy, you’ll be stopped even more because puppies are cute. Floppy ears, big eyes, and a wagging tail are irresistible.

      It has been medically proven time and again that laughter is good for us. It helps us mentally and physically, releasing endorphins that make us feel better and lift our spirits. Dogs are great for making us laugh. Clumsy puppies are always doing something funny, from tripping over their own paws to discovering the fun of new toys. Dogs can make us laugh and often will do so on purpose.

      Researchers have found that owning a dog is good for us. Petting a dog elevates our mental outlook (brightens our mood) and lowers our blood pressure. Several studies have shown that heart-attack victims who owned dogs had a much longer survival rate than those who didn’t own dogs. Dog owners may be more active, going for walks with their dogs; or perhaps these positive results are simply due to dog owners laughing more often. Dog owners may have more social interaction with other people, which is healthier than social isolation. Personally, I think dogs help us feel needed, wanted, and loved, and that’s enough motivation for most people to fight illness or injury.

      WHERE DO YOU LIVE?

      You can share your life with a dog just about anywhere; dogs are very adaptable. They can live in mansions or bungalows, in condos or high-rises. Dogs love big yards with room to run but can learn to live with several daily walks and no yard. If you want to share your life with a dog, you can make it work. Some situations just require a little more commitment from you to make them work well.

      When you add a dog to your life, your living space becomes your dog’s living space, too. It doesn’t matter whether you live in a 4,000-square-foot house or a 550-square-foot apartment; your dog will be with you, underfoot, simply because that’s where she wants to be. Although most giant-breed dogs are not as active as smaller breeds, they still take up space. If you have a large house, a Great Dane sprawled across the living room floor is not going to seem nearly as large as one sharing a tiny apartment.

      Your dog is going to track dirt and dead leaves into your home, and she will probably bring in muddy toys and half-chewed sticks. If you’re lucky, she may even bring in the gopher she caught in the backyard. Most dogs shed, especially in the spring and fall, and will be more than willing to share their lovely coats with you, all over the house. Your dog may leave puddles of drool on the floor and may splash her drinking water from wall to wall.

      A yard can definitely make keeping a dog easier. Without a yard, you will need to walk your dog several times each day so that she can relieve herself, including first thing in the morning and last thing at night. Bad weather is no excuse; dogs need to go outside, rain, snow, sleet, or shine! A yard also makes playing with your dog easier, especially if you don’t want her roughhousing. Daily play sessions are great for bonding with your dog and can be great exercise. If you don’t have a yard, you will need to walk your dog, jog with her, or find a safe place where she can run and play.

      No matter where you live, you probably have neighbors. They may live very close or farther away, but they are there. What will your neighbors think about your new dog? Although you may think that your dog is none of their business, she certainly will be if she is annoying or poorly trained. To be a good neighbor, let neighbors know that you’re bringing home a new dog and ask them to let you know if your dog is being annoying before a problem develops and before they get angry.

      CAN YOU AFFORD A DOG?

      It’s not polite to discuss finances—especially a personal budget—but this is something you need to talk about before you add a dog to your family. Dogs can be expensive. For the first year of your dog’s life, it may seem like money is disappearing from your wallet faster than you can replace it.

      The most common expenses incurred in a puppy’s first year include:

      Cost of puppy from a breeder: $500–$2,000

      Cost of dog from a shelter: $50–$200

      Initial supplies: $100–$200

      First vet exam, including vaccinations and worming: $100

      Second and third vaccinations and exam during each visit: $100–$150

      Spaying and neutering, depending on the dog’s size: $125–$200

      Microchipping, heartworm preventative, and miscellaneous vet costs: $100–$200

      Local licensing: $20–$30

      A year’s worth of high-quality food and treats: $500–$1,000

      Grooming supplies, including flea and tick prevention: $100

      Kindergarten training class: $75–$100

      Cleaning supplies: $20–$40

      This list covers only the basics. If you need to build a new fence, shore up an existing one, or build a dog run, your expenses will increase. This doesn’t include an emergency room visit, either, should your puppy hurt herself or eat something she shouldn’t have eaten. So, before you get a new dog, make sure your budget can handle it.

      Can You Legally Keep a Dog?

      You may think that owning a dog is one of your inalienable rights—one of those rights no one can take away. But that’s not necessarily so. If you own your home, do you belong to a homeowners’ association? What are its regulations concerning dogs? Many associations limit how many dogs may live in each home or have rules concerning the size of dogs allowed.

      If you rent, does your rental contract allow dog ownership? In most states, landlords can legally forbid dog ownership. If they do allow pets, they can limit how many pets may be in the home, the sizes, and even which types (such as forbidding dogs or reptiles). Some cities, counties, states, and even countries have outlawed certain breeds of dogs, and some insurance companies will not insure you if you own particular breeds.

      Before you get a dog, do some research and find out if you can legally keep one.

      WHAT DOES YOUR FUTURE HOLD?

      None of us has mastered the ability to see into the future, but most of us have plans or goals of what we would like to accomplish. What are yours? Will a dog fit into those plans ten, twelve, and even fourteen years into the future?

      Dogs come in all sizes, from very tiny to very large, from lap dogs to guard dogs, and everything in between. Margaret, an English Mastiff, owned by Arnie Peller; and Gordan, a Pug, owned by Sheri Wachtstetter.

      People who do purebred dog rescue and those who work in shelters hear the same stories day after day: My kids wanted the dog but have now left for college, and we don’t have the time (or the desire) to care for the dog anymore. Or, I got the dog while I was going to school, and now I have a job and can’t care for her anymore.

      Before you add a dog to your family, try to take a look forward in time. What do you plan to be doing in ten years? Where? Will a dog fit into those plans?

      Dogs Come in All Sizes, Shapes, and Temperaments

      No other single species on the planet has more variety in size and shape than the species of domesticated dogs, Canis familiaris. You’ll find everything from tiny 2-pound lap dogs to 200-pound livestock protection dogs, from dogs with extremely short muzzles to those with elegant long noses, and from those with squat, sturdy bodies and short legs made for power to those with long legs and bodies made for running. There are dogs with no hair and dogs with lots of coat. Some dogs are friendly and social, while others are wary, cautious, and protective. The variables are tremendous.

      Choosing the right dog for you and your family should be a carefully thought out decision, not an impulse buy based on little or no research. That puppy in the pet store window may be cute, but do you know anything about her? The Neapolitan Mastiff in the Harry Potter movies has a unique look, but would that breed really fit into your lifestyle? Unfortunately, many people do far more research when they buy a new refrigerator than they do when adding a dog to the family!

      Part II of this book profiles more than 325 breeds, breed varieties, and mixes. I give a brief history of each breed and the breed’s occupation. I also provide information about the breed’s personality and temperament, including certain traits, such as playfulness, trainability, protectiveness, and affection toward the owner. The breed’s activity level is also discussed, as well as its ability to get along with other dogs, cats, livestock, and children. I queried the experts, especially longtime breeders and owners, as well as trainers, to gain this information. Before you decide on a breed, make sure that the breed’s characteristics match what you’re looking for and will meld smoothly into your family’s lifestyle.

      The AKC’s Ten Most Popular Dogs

      The Labrador Retriever remained the most popular dog for the sixteenth consecutive year in 2005, according to American Kennel Club registration statistics. The entire top ten includes:

      1. Labrador Retriever

      2. Golden Retriever

      3. Yorkshire Terrier

      4. German Shepherd Dog

      5. Beagle

      6. Dachshund

      7. Boxer

      8. Poodle

      9. Shih Tzu

      10. Miniature Schnauzer

      WHAT IS A BREED? OR A MIXED BREED?

      Dogs have aided mankind throughout their shared history, but as dogs became more valuable as workers, and more jobs were found for our canine partners, people began breeding their dogs with the goal of producing better workers. Perhaps one farmer had a female dog who was gentle with sheep yet tough enough to handle cattle. He wanted to perpetuate her abilities, so he found a neighboring farmer who had a male with the same abilities. They bred their dogs in the hopes of passing on those valuable traits.

      The same happened within most of the occupations dogs filled: big game hunters, vermin hunters, livestock guardians, and more. The dog’s ability was much more important than any other traits at the time. But at various times during our shared history—from early Egyptian, Greek, and Roman civilizations through today—the dog’s appearance was also important. People bred to accentuate certain characteristics, such as size, body type or shape, head and muzzle shape, coat color, type, and length, and more. In this way, breeds were developed.

      The definition of a dog breed varies, depending on the expert being questioned. However, a breed has several unique characteristics:

      The dogs in any given breed must share common ancestors. The gene pool might be smaller (with fewer individual dogs) or larger, but it must be shared.

      The dogs must have similar physical characteristics that make the breed unique from other dog breeds.

      The dogs must share temperament characteristics and, when appropriate, working abilities.

      The dogs must breed true (producing offspring like themselves) and must have bred true for a minimum of six or seven generations.

      Modern breeds have a breed standard. This is a written description of the breed that details what dogs within the breed should look like and contains information on size, height, weight, shape of the body, length of the legs, shape of the head, and details of the coat. The breed standard is implemented by the national or international breed club that supervises the breed. At conformation shows, judges must be familiar with the breed standard and should judge those dogs accordingly. Wise breeders use the standard as a guideline to choose those dogs who compare most favorably with it.

      Dog owners today, who are often unconcerned with the dog’s original occupation, often get purebred dogs because a purebred dog is more of a known entity than a mixed-breed dog. A mixed breed, simply because it is a mix of two or more breeds, is very much an unknown. You cannot know exactly how big the dog will be, how much and what type of coat the dog will have as an adult, and which temperament traits the dog will have. With a purebred, you know what the dog was bred to do (such as hunt or herd), and certain behaviors can be predicted because of this. With a purebred, you even have a good idea as to the breed’s lifespan.

      But mixed breeds have their fans, too. Many people feel that mixed breeds have fewer health problems than purebreds—that they have hybrid vigor. Others enjoy the surprise of the unknown and love the randomness and creativity that mixed breeds sometimes display. Many dog owners love the uniqueness of a mixed breed. While many purebreds look very much alike, most mixed breeds are one of a kind.

      Breeds That Need Regular Grooming and Trims

      Coats that need daily care, as well as professional grooming, take dedication. If these coats are not cared for correctly, mats and tangles can result, causing discomfort to the dog, added expenses when the dog visits the groomer, and even skin problems if the mats are ignored.

      Airedale

      Bichon Frise

      Bouvier des Flandres

      Cocker Spaniel

      English Cocker Spaniel

      English Springer Spaniel

      Kerry Blue Terrier

      Lhasa Apso

      Maltese

      Old English Sheepdog

      Poodle

      Schnauzer

      Scottish Terrier

      Shih Tzu

      Silky Terrier

      Welsh Springer Spaniel

      Welsh Terrier

      West Highland White Terrier

      Wire Fox Terrier

      Yorkshire Terrier

      BIG OR SMALL? LONG BODIED OR SHORT?

      Most of the size variation of dogs is due to the breed’s original occupation. Dogs required to protect flocks of sheep had to be formidable enough to scare off predators, have the protective temperament and drive to battle predators, and be tough enough to survive the fight. Herding dogs needed to be agile enough to work the stock and small enough to have the stamina to work all day. Property guardian dogs had to be large enough to be intimidating to trespassers and formidable enough to ensure the trespassers left the property. Dogs bred to hunt vermin had to be small enough to fit into tight places or burrows after the vermin, yet tough enough to make the kill.

      Body shape was also originally related to the dog’s job. The Dachshund’s long, low body shape allowed the dog to go down burrows after her prey. The Greyhound’s sleek body shape made the breed able to run fast, while the deep chest provided room for a large heart and lungs—all so the dog could run more efficiently.

      For you, as a dog owner, size and body shape are usually a personal preference. Many people love the look of the giant breeds and the reaction these dogs instill in other people. Other people like much smaller dogs, especially the toys, because they can snuggle on the lap, fit into smaller places (such as a carrier under the seat of an airplane), or simply because they are so cute.

      LONG HAIR OR SHORT? SLICK OR FUZZY?

      Coat types originally developed as a means of protecting the dog. Terriers, with their tough, wiry coats, were better able to fit through tight places and withstand battles with rats and other vermin. Herding dogs with medium-length coats would be protected from briars and brambles, as well as bad weather, yet would not be burdened by too heavy a coat. Sled dogs with a thick double coat could withstand the coldest of temperatures and continue to work hard, pulling sleds in the snow.

      Although a coat that enables the dog to work is still important, personal preferences and style trends also play a big part in the coat a breed may have. For example, Border Collies competing in conformation dog shows have a much more elegant coat than the Border Collies usually seen herding sheep.

      Short slick coats do not mat or tangle and so are easy to care for in that respect. Nevertheless, these coats still need regular combing and brushing to keep the hair and skin healthy. Short coats shed, usually in the spring and fall, and the short hairs can be bristly. Breeds with short coats include Boxers, Doberman Pinschers, Labrador Retrievers, Rat Terriers, Smooth Fox Terriers, and Weimaraners.

      Many people mistakenly believe short-haired dogs don’t shed, but they do, and those little hairs can be bristly. Winslow, a Staffordshire Bull Terrier, owned by Steph La Flamme.

      Medium-length coats are not short and slick, but are not long and dragging on the floor either. Australian Shepherds, German Shepherds, Papillons, Japanese Chins, and Silky Terriers have a medium-length coat. These coats, if not combed and brushed regularly, can tangle, especially behind the ears, under the collar, and on the back legs. When these coats shed, the soft hairs usually form hairballs, like dust bunnies, that will float throughout the house.

      Long coats require more care than other coat types because the tangles form so easily. These coats are gorgeous, though, and well worth the care. Irish, English, and Gordon setters have wonderful long, flowing coats, as do Afghan Hounds, Cocker Spaniels, Maltese, and Yorkshire Terriers.

      Many breeds have coat types that don’t fit into these categories; some have coats that are unique. There is nothing quite like the amazing coat of an Old English Sheepdog that has been freshly brushed. A Bichon Frise has a unique coat that needs regular trimming. Some terriers have a tougher, coarser coat, while others, such as the Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier, have a very soft coat. Poodles can have a soft, almost fluffy coat or a curly coat. In all types, the hair grows all the time and needs regular grooming. Puli, Kuvasz, and Komondors have hair that cords, or mats, in long, vertical cords all over the dog’s body. And then there are the hairless breeds, some of which have a few scattered hairs, while others have tufts on the head and feet. The variety of coat types is really amazing, with something to suit everyone’s taste.

      The Puli’s coat is made up of long, vertical cords or tangles. Once the cords are formed, the coat is relatively easy to care for. Ch. Immerzu Galuska CDX, OA, OAP, OAJ, OAJ, OJP, and TDIA.

      PERSONALITIES AND ACTIVITY LEVELS

      One of the keys to a successful relationship with a dog is to try to match your personality and activity level with that of a dog breed. If you are a calm, quiet person, nothing is more annoying than a dog bouncing up and down, barking, and begging you to do something all the time. Although some differences in personality and activity levels can be good—a dog slightly more active and extroverted than you

      Enjoying the preview?
      Page 1 of 1