When someone hears the name Fox Terrier, they may think of either a Wire Fox or Smooth Fox Terrier. While the two breeds are similar, the main difference is the coat and they are bred independent of one another. A Smooth Fox Terrier has a coat which is smooth and flat, yet thick, dense and hard. On the other hand a Wire Fox Terrier has a broken coat which has a dense, wiry texture to it. The coat color is alike on both dogs, and each can have a base coat of black and tan, or tan with some white spots.

Another thing that makes the dogs similar is that both were originally bred for hunting foxes. Fox Terriers were bred and trained to chase foxes into a hole and actually venture inside to retrieve the fox. Because the fox would often act out with aggression towards the dog, a Fox Terrier needed to be courageous enough to pursue the fox and not back down. Both breeds still display the same brave temperament today, never cowering when up against another animal, no matter what the size may be.

Throughout the years, a Fox Terrier was a blanket name given to a group of fox hunting dog breeds. The Wire Fox and Smooth Fox continued to be shown in professional shows under the same breed standard for several years. Research concluded the two dogs should not have been categorized together as one breed alone. Though many terrier lovers refer to the dogs as cousins, the belief is actually that the two dogs are not related at all.

Terrier lovers claim the Wire Fox is a descendant of the Rough Black and Tan Terriers, which hail from Wales. The Smooth Fox Terrier finds its origins in the combination of a Smooth Black and Tan, a Bull Terrier and a Beagle. The Wire Fox and Smooth Coat were eventually broken into different breeds. In 1985, the two breeds were actually separated and recognized as two distinct dogs. Now, each one is registered separately with the American Kennel Club and other professional organizations. Most people do not realize the Smooth Fox Terrier was a recognized breed in the United States for more than 15 years, long before the Wire Fox Terrier burst onto the scene.

Both dogs are similar size-wise, each weighing around 15-25 pounds and standing between 15-18 inches in height. Both breeds have a high energy level and active nature, and display a fierce streak of independence. One major feature of the terrier breed is their capacity to respond well to training, being naturally intelligent, the dogs love to participate in obedience and agility trials. The dogs also need training to avoid becoming bored and acting out in a destructive manner. Both breeds have strength, power and endurance that can seem to be never ending. The Smooth Fox and Wire Fox both make suitable breeds to bring into a home and will provide years of love and loyalty for their owner.

This article was written by John Jackson and has been contributed by http://www.greatdogsite.com For more information on the Smooth Fox Terrier, please visit our page http://www.greatdogsite.com/breeds/details/Smooth_Fox_Terrier/

Breed All About It – Smooth Fox Terrier

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Temperament: The Toy Fox Terrier may be a small dog but is very robust, as are most of the Terrier family. This is a hardy dog that is intelligent curious and active staying active all its life. This dog is loyal, loving, and is sensitive. This is a dog that has high levels of energy, and is inquisitive. This breed has got all the Terrier qualities and will still hunt and kill mice and rats, so small pets such as rats and rabbits are not a good idea with this breed.

The Toy Fox Terrier is small but will still need a firm consistent leader to meet its natural balance and to bring out the best in the breed. Small Dog Syndrome is not good and this breed, if they think they are the pack leader, will become yappy and over demanding. This dog is great to train and with its sharp intelligent brain learns quickly. The Toy Fox Terrier is used for assisting the disabled and can work well for hard of hearing and other disabled groups, around the home. This dog is good with children providing the child understands to be a small leader. The dog will stay puppy like all its life which is about 13-14 years.

Health issues: While, over all, this is a good healthy breed of dog there are lines that can get stifle or Legg-Calve-Perthes, a syndrome that is of the hip joint and is degenerative, both of which can be seen in the Toy breeds. Diet is important with this breed as allergies to corn, beet pulp, and wheat can develop.

Grooming: The Toy Fox Terrier is easy to keep smart and clean all that is needed is brushing the coat occasionally. This breed is a light shedder.

Living conditions: The Toy Fox Terrier is good for apartment living and is happy and active in an apartment, not needing a garden. This dog will still need good daily walks as it is an active breed and so needs to release a lot of energy and fulfill its need to have a great look around and explore.

For more information on different Dog Breeds, Dog Training and Teacup Puppies for sale including Yorkies, Chihuahuas and Morkies please visit our websites below. Be sure to Register for our Free Puppy Contest where you can register to win a Free Puppy valued at up to $1,500.00 with Free Shipping.

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My new toy fox terrier puppy – Divot

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Group: Herding

Weight: Male: 25-30, Female: 24-28 lbs

Height: Male: 10-12, Female: 10-12 inches

Overview

It is only for 70 years now that the Cardigan Welsh Corgi and the Pembroke Welsh Corgi have been regarded as separate breeds. There are several theories about the origin of the Cardigan Welsh Corgi, and many believe that both Corgi breeds are related to the Swedish Vallhunds. These dogs have been brought to Wales by the Vikings during the 800s. Another premise is that the Cardigan Welsh Corgi is the older of the two Corgi breeds, and that the Celts brought them to Wales in about 1200 BC. The name “Corgi” is derived from the word “dog” in Celtic. The Corgi has many natural talents that include herding, hunting, and guarding. Seeing that these dogs are fairly low, they manage to move out of the way whenever a cow kicked. These days the Cardigan Welsh Corgi is primarily a companion dog.

Temperament

Cardigan Welsh Corgis are affectionate and caring dogs, and they also possess a high degree of intelligence. They have an open and gentle nature, but they do have a tendency to nip at heels. But because they are so intelligent, they are a pleasure to train. The Cardigan Welsh Corgi will work well for experienced and inexperienced owners. This breed is very brave, and they have lots of energy. Corgis are also very keen, willing and enthusiastic. Cardigan Welsh Corgis is spontaneous but also obedient, and they have a mind of their own.

Care

These dogs should be brushed with a firm hair brush when it is necessary, and they do not have very high maintenance requirements. Corgis should not be bathed excessively, and only when it is deemed necessary. It is important that the Cardigan Welsch Corgi is not fed too much.

Training

In general, the Caridgan Welsch Corgi will get along well with other dogs, but they can however be aggressive at times. Sometimes the Corgis will take on situation that are too big for them too handle, and this often results in them loosing their lives. These dogs also try to herd people by nipping at their heels, but they can be trained to stop doing this. Cardigan Welsch Corgis are good at making alarm, but they can however bark excessively. It is also very common for the males Corgis to be aggressive toward other male dogs, especially when a bitch in the neighbourhood is on heat.

Health problems

The Cardigan Welsh Corgi is a particularly healthy breed, especially when compared to other dogs. Hip dysplasia is a likely condition, and so are mild eye problems when they get older. The most dangerous health problems these dogs struggle with are degenerative myelopathy, which is a spinal problem that is mostly found in the German Shepherds.

For more info on Cardigan Welsh Corgi or a full list of Dog Breeds visit this Dog Training resource website.

Breed All About It – Cardigan Welsh Corgi

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The Curly-Coat is a retriever of great ability in the water and on land. He is descended from a cross between the St. John’s Newfoundland (presently known as the Labrador Retriever) , the English Water Dog and the Poodle. He became extremely popular among the English land-owners of the nineteenth century and was prized as a multi-purpose hunting retriever with great perseverance on land as well as strength in the water. With the arrival of the twentieth century, the popularity of the Curly-Coat gave way to other retrieving breeds. Today it still remains popular in Australia and New Zealand. This is a dog with great power in the water when it comes to retrieving. I have personally seen a Curly -Coat that has brought in without hesitation a wounded Canada Goose, no small feat. He is a natural swimmer if introduced to the water at an early age to water play. There is not always an inherent desire to swim, at least without an introduction, because the Curly Coat has also been used for years as a hunting dog on land.

The Curly-Coat is Black or Liver in color. The tight curls are an essential requirement, they must be a dense mass of small tight curls. This type of coat is extremely weather proof and water resistant and also is a protection against brambles and thickets. Every part of the dog is covered with these dense curls except the muzzle and the toes.

The Sporting dogs, especially the retrieving breeds, are usually thought of in terms of active personalities and very outgoing, to the extent that they are not often good watch dogs. The Curly-Coat however is not only a quiet and placid home companion but is also a good watch dog, giving voice when strangers approach. It is a persistent hunter, does not give up and is eager and alert in the field. At home it is somewhat aloof but is calm and dignified. Of course a puppy, as with any youngster, will be exuberant and will get into things, but as a general rule the Curly-Coat has a certain common sense and placid nature that makes it quite content to lie about the house and sleep. It does not demand the attention that some of the other retrievers do.

This is a dog that is quite healthy in most respects. However there are some particular bloodlines that appear to have predisposition to Cancer and there is also a skin condition associated with pattern baldness. This is an outdoor type of dog and he does need plenty of exercise. If he is to be used for hunting it is essential that he be adjusted to the physical demands and in good condition. If allowed to lie around he will take the opportunity. If he is to be a house dog, he still needs to get out and go for good long walks. This is a breed that has the stamina to be a “jogger’s dog” and he delights in participating in this activity with his owner.

Michael Russell Your Independent guide to Animals.

xingu a curly coated retriever, 5 years old

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Japanese Chin?

I have an opportunity to buy a Japanese Chin for a very good price, but I don’t know anybody who has one. Can anyone tell me what kind of pet they are?

Japanese Chin (aka Japanese Spaniel)

The Japanese Spaniel is a charming, lively, and happy animal. Pleasant, loving and intelligent. Affectionate and extremely devoted to its master. This breed loves everyone it is familiar with, but is known to be reserved around strangers and in unfamiliar situations. With its gentle ways and charming manners, it is perhaps best suited to homes in which there are no small children. The Japanese Spaniel has a mind of its own and likes to be the center of attention. This breed is not a barker. Mild mannered, elegant, yet playful. Sensitive, agile, dainty and clean. This breed is more obedient than most toy breeds and are good dogs for learning tricks. They are also good watchdogs.

Breed All About It – Japanese Chin

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What is the difference between a Rat Terrier and a Manchester Terrier?

We are getting a new dog and we are trying to decide if he is a Rat Terrier or a Manchester Terrier.

rat terriers are usually white with black or brown markings and a manchester terrier is usually all black with brown markings

Manchester Terrier – Ringhio

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The boxer panel van is Peugeot’s best selling light commercial van. Its consistent sales performance proves that this van is the number one choice for fleets due to its dependability and reliability. Here’s a review of the latest line up of the Boxer panel van from Peugeot.

The new model comes with 4 different power plant options available in 4 different models, 330, 350, 290 and 250. With the exception of the 290 model which is limited to 110bhp petrol engine. The rest of the 3 other models offer diesel and petrol engines.

The panel van vehicle lineup is a popular commercial vehicle in the UK because it offers a variety of options that allow customers to choose from different options of wheelbase configuration. Inside the new Peugeot Boxer panel van, the cabin features well appointed interiors and equipment that is at par with what most of the competition offers. It has adjustable seats with armrest for the driver and passenger, centralized lock, electric standard windows, electric door mirrors quipped with defogger, Radio with CD player. The latest model is showcases Peugeot’s several improvements that one may not notice at once. Electricals have been redesigned to accommodate additional electrical systems. All these features are available in all models except the entry level 250 vans.

Peugeot expects buyers to prefer the common rail diesel engines and they have come up with several engine displacements as well. These include a 2.0, 2.2 and a huge 2.8 liter engine that belts out a whopping 127bhp at 3,600RPM. The common rail diesel engine design breakthrough guarantees greater fuel economy, as well as greener emissions. All the clean power is transmitted via a 5 speed manual gearbox. Another improvement is the gear shift level which is now located at the dash board. There is no improvement in performance, but you can have greater ease of access especially when cleaning plus more floor space for that extra storage. Also noticeable is the improved interior noise levels. This is due to the insulations incorporated to improve sound deadening characteristics and reduce body vibrations. The sills on both rear and front are designed to be low enough to provide ease of access to the cargo area. All these make the boxer panel van a truly capable vehicle.

With the appearance set aside, specially compared to the more popular Ford Transit, what makes the Peugeot a standout is the power plant. HDI, or common rail diesel engines offer the best fuel economy and without sacrificing performance.

The Peugeot Boxer is built with convenience, reliability, economy and safety in mind. With practical and usable space, it wouldn’t come as a surprise that there are even a growing number of motor home owners that choose Peugeot panel vans.

The Peugeot boxer panel van is designed for you to enjoy years of hassle-free driving. It is now available in the market and is expected to be a big hit in the UK fleet market.

To find out more information on Peugeot Boxer Contract Hire or Citroen Van Leasing, please visit one of the best online van guides – vanslondon.co.uk and find the best offers, read reviews, learn facts and get the best deals.

Simon and Garfunkel The Boxer (Original)

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The Norwegian Lundehund is one of the most unique dogs in existence. One could call it a “super dog” in its field, for it is curiously equipped to perform an exact function and has features which are not present in any other breed. The Lundehund is an ancient breed of dog, which still exists today, useful in the specific task of hunting the Puffin Bird. This bird is a small penguin type which nests in tight crevices in rocks and caves. The Lundehund has at least six double or triple jointed toes on each foot, a double jointed neck which allows it to twist its head almost completely backwards and upside down and ears which close up to prevent water from getting inside.

The standard of the breed requires very specific foot structure: there must be at least six digits on each foot (many have up to eight) and of those digits at least five must be a support for the dog. All five of the toes on the front and four on the back, must have three joints, the rest must all have double joints. The shoulder joints are also constructed so as to allow the dog to spread its front legs out at right angles to its body. All of these features are tools which the dog uses to reach into the rocks and caves which are the nesting places of the Puffin Bird and drag out the bird or its abandoned nest. Because of this breed’s unique nature, the Norwegian Lundehund and the Puffin Bird which it hunts are now protected by the Government of Norway and by conservationist organizations.

Not surprisingly, the breed is also called the Puffin Dog. The Puffin Dog was extremely useful and found in large numbers during the 17th and 18th centuries in Norway. The local people used the dog to hunt the bird for their own table use and also to sell the down feathers to Europe and England. Down pillows made from this bird were much in demand and until the use of nets became popular there were many families who kept two or three of these dogs, not only to provide food for their table but to provide income from the sale of the feathers. Gradually there was less demand for the Puffin dogs when the farmers began to use nets for the capture of the birds. In the more isolated villages the Norwegian Lundehund continued to be used and it is probably only because of their isolation that the breed survived the changes.

Around 1925 the breed had dropped so drastically in number that it was very near extinction. Around that time the Christie family, who were breeders of English Setters, became interested and made efforts to re-establish the breed. The Distemper outbreaks during the second World War nearly decimated the population again and it was only through the intervention of the Christies that the breed managed to survive and then in greatly reduced numbers. By 1960 the count was exceedingly low and Mrs. Christie, at the age of 70, again attempted to resurrect the original bloodlines. It is believed that she re-established the breed with only five specimens of the original breeding stock.

Today there are active clubs around the world who protect and cherish this unusual breed. The dog is a member of the F.S.S. of the American Kennel club.

Those who keep this dog as a pet need to be aware that there are some health problems associated with the breed. The Lundehund Association lists four specific diseases which are also common to some other breeds. These are all related to gastrointestinal problems which can be life threatening or require special diets. Testing can be done for these and it is highly important that breeders test for these conditions before using any dog for breeding. Pet owners need to keep in touch with the breeders of the dog for general health care questions.

Michael Russell

Your Independent guide to Dogs

Skadie the Norwegian Lundehund Bends Her Neck

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Breed group: Herding

Weight: Male: 70-84, Female: 57-71 lbs

Height: Male: 23.5, Female: 22 inches

Overview

The Bergamasco is originally from Persia, and it is believed that this ancient shepherding breed is at least 2000 years old. These dogs were bred to be independent and clever. After the Second World War these dogs were almost extinct, but were saved by the efforts of Dr. Maria Andreoli – an Italian breeder and scientist. Even today, the Bergamasco is still a very rare breed.

Temperament

The Bergamasco is not ideal for someone with no previous dog ownership experience. This breed is dependable, calm and extremely protective of their families and homes. They will be tolerable of other dogs if they do not see them as threats. The Bergamasco will also get along fine with children. These dogs are very wary and suspicious of strangers – and they are always attentive, caring, level-headed, distinguished and well-balanced. These dogs were never bred to be just pets.

Care

If the coats of these dogs are fully flocked, they will not require a lot of care, and should only be brushed and bathed occasionally. Then from two to three years, their coats will settle into a locking pattern that will continue throughout the dog’s life. Their coat consists of three types of hair: the undercoat, the goat hair and the woolly top coat. The Bergamasco is a very straightforward, but genuine dog – and this is reflected in their coats. It is advised that the coats of these dogs develop as naturally as possible. The Bergamasco is not a heavy shedding dog, but you will find that they loose some hair during certain stages, especially during puppy hood. The hair loss for these dogs is minimal after the flocks are set. The coat of the Bergamasco is considered to be hair, and not fur. The coat is also considered to be non-allergic, but there are some cases where someone is still allergic to the hair of the Bergamasco.

Training

Bergamasco’s as independent, bright and open-minded dogs. They are however not submissive, and were developed to solve problems on their own. They also need to know why certain commands are given. This bred will not submit to be obedient, but rather to display affection. The Bergamasco will not react positively to training methods that are cruel or unkind. Training of these dogs should also be conducted in a firm, fair and consistent way. It is also advised that these dogs receive the necessary obedience and socialisation training.

Health problems

Seeing that this breed is fairly rare, not a lot is known about health concerns and issues.

For more info on Bergamasco grooming or a full list of Dog Breeds visit this Dog Training resource website.

Bill Gates in bergamasco (originale)

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# 5: The Bernese Mountain Dog

While the Bernese take much exercise to be happy and content, is a pet generally very good. Friendly to strangers, but vigilant, the Bernese Mountain Dog is likely that both a great pet for current pet owners, families with children smaller, and anyone who wants a pet that will notify visitors or unusual activity. While the Bernese might bark to signal the presence of a stranger or an animal that is very close to the family they love, there are very few incidents recoded Bernese mountain dogs attacking people or other animals. In fact, quiet in this race may actually have a cowardly streak to them, but they are nothing if not loyal and friendly. Just do not count on them to protect the bear family at the camp.

# 4: The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

An ideal pet, the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is intelligent to the point of being almost intuitive, and has a love for family members that few animals can match. While the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is friendly with strangers and other animals, often is too easy. In other words, the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is probably the worst guard dog on the planet, and can only wag his tail when strangers approach with the hope of a little TLC.

# 3: Bichon Frise

Although the name does not exactly come out of the tongue, the Bichon Frise is a very race smart and well educated, capable of great empathy for humans and other animals. The Bichon Frise is happier with the families to pay attention, but is almost equally happy to share the care of family members with a new baby or another pet. The Bichon Frise tend to enjoy the family, often waiting for the windows or doors until the return family members run errands or work. Once the Bichon Frise is reunited with his family, a slobbery kisses session usually occurs as few moments.

# 2: Golden Retriever

Golden retrievers are known for their intelligence and eagerness to please. Would need to indicate Golden Retrievers that are often seen as one of the races smooth and easy to carry. Tall, strong and durable, the Golden Retriever is a great companion for anyone with an active lifestyle. A little friendly and curious nature makes the Golden Retriever very well with young children, although their size can be a bit unsettling for some children.

# 1: The American Cocker Spaniel

The Cocker Spaniel won his position on the list of races more friendly, almost along the Golden Retriever, due to their smaller size and a little more eager to please attitude. The Cocker Spaniel is known for being both intelligent and eager to please, but is known to be sensitive and even a little cranky if you do not get a lot of positive reinforcement. This race plays well with children, and more likely a kiss to an intruder alarm.

Now that you know what breed of dog you are interested in owning, you will need some stylish dog collars and dog leads from MyMascot.com

World’s Friendliest Dogs Volume 1

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