Dogs

When people think of the German Shepherd, at first glance they see an impressive animal that hunts criminals, sniffs out drugs or tends to sheep in the country. However, in fact, the German Shepherd is the prototype of the working dog. But this four-legged friend has a lot more to offer in terms of versatility than first meets the eye. A classic around the world Their name instantly answers the questions of origin: the breed of German Shepherd goes back to herding dogs, which not only had to keep an eye on the sheep, but also guard the shepherd's property. Archetypes of the German shepherd have been documented since the 7th century. They were bred from short-haired herding dogs and the first recognised German Shepherd was noted in 1891. The progenitor of the modern breed was called "Horand von Grafrath", the breeding goal was a robust and intelligent working dog, and ideals of beauty were initially secondary. Since then, the German Shepherd has become one of the most recognised and sought after dogs around the world used in many different capacities. Nature and character of the German Shepherd Everything a professional working dog needs is created through the nature of the German Shepherd. Their high level of intelligence makes them eager to learn, obedient and compliant. As an attentive, strong-tempered and confident animal, a German Shepherd is ideally suited as a guard dog, but also if you choose one as a companion or family dog, you can’t go wrong. A balanced German Shepherd is at ease, benign and goes through thick and thin with you. their loyalty to their man is unshakable. They also appreciate the company of their own kind and are well tolerated by all breeds if there is sufficient socialization. Education and keeping of the German Shepherd The German Shepherd is not a beginner dog as you should know how to be completely consistent in their upbringing and everyday dealings. They must know who is in charge, otherwise, the dog can be prone to act out and have dominance over you. The problems don’t stop here if not educated properly, as it lies not only in their strength and size but also their willingness to learn. Shepherd dogs work best with patience, empathy, praise and treats. Of course, a well-behaved German Shepherd needs a lot of exercise whatever the weather. Their enormous enthusiasm for work has opened up a diverse field of activity as a guard and guard dog, assistance dog and tracker. They are still a classic among herding dogs. If you keep the German Shepherd as a leisure dog, use their talents for stimulating employment. If trained well they will stay happy, playful and helpful their whole life. Grooming the German Shepherd Depending on the length, grooming is quite simple. Brush and comb your German Shepherd regularly and occasionally use a trimmer for a corrective cut. Pay particular attention to the dental care of your four-legged friend. Ideally, the bit should be cleaned daily – They should at least always have dental chewing gum available to prevent build up of tartare. Due to their size and overbreeding, German Shepherds tend to have problems with hip and elbow joints. Profile – Breed: German Shepherd Origin: Germany Classification: Herding and cattle dogs Size: Male 60-65cm shoulder height. Female 55-60cm shoulder height Weight: Male 30-40kg. Female 22-34kg Anatomy: Muscular, longer than tall, sloping tail scissor bite Eyes: Almond shaped, dark, slightly slanted Ears: Standing ears, slightly inclined forward Fur and Colour: Rough haired, straight or long haired, monochrome black, grey, red-yellow Particularities: After WW1 the breed was led in English-speaking countries as the Alsatian Character: Attentive, intelligent and eager to learn, confident, balanced with strong nerves Maintenance: Regularly comb, brush, occasionally trim, clean teeth

The French Bulldog has been one of the most popular dog breeds for some time now. No wonder, since hardly anyone can escape their charm and playfulness. With their balanced character, the “Frenchies” are also suitable for living in the city, provided you take their urge to move into account and give them enough activity. Unfortunately though, breeding negligence often goes hand in hand with the demand for popular breeds, which has caused many French Bulldogs to become short of breath. Origins in the working class Their English ancestors were bred for bloody biting matches until they were prohibited by law in the 19th century. As a companion for British guest textile workers, Bulldogs came to France and were initially typically worker, carriage and butcher dogs whose job was to kill rats. Crossbreeds then started to occur with domestic pugs and terriers. The look of the modern French Bulldog is based on this colourful mix of breeds, which soon made the small power packs popular in other social classes and among artists. The first breed association was founded in Paris in 1880 and a systematic breeding standard was developed. The colours of the French Bulldog are diverse with many different colour combinations. French Bulldog character Characteristic bat ears, wrinkled foreheads and hanging lips; the French version of the bulldog also has a very unique look. The temperament of the French Bulldog is balanced and good-natured but also lively and headstrong. The watchful and loyal French bulldog is an ideal companion and always wants to be close to their owner. The French Bulldog is affectionate, cuddly and very easy to deal with when in contact with adults and children. They absolutely need direct contact with humans and must not be kept in kennels, their chosen place of sleep would be right next to you in bed snoring away. Education and keeping of the French Bulldog The attitude of the French Bulldog is also straightforward for newcomers to dogs. Due to its size and ease of handling, they are also suitable as apartment dogs, however excessive climbing stairs should be avoided. Despite the animal being perfectly at home in an apartment do not forget that they still need enough exercise to remain relaxed. There are no breed-specific difficulties in raising the French Bulldog - apart from the fact that it is difficult not to be entangled in the charm of the dog. Consistency in upbringing is absolutely necessary for the dog to accept you as an alpha animal. French bulldogs are docile and always keen to please their humans. So don't save the praise! Grooming tips for the French Bulldog Grooming is very simple due to the dog’s short hair, however, you must remember that they are very susceptible to the cold and wet. As with other skin wrinkle dogs, it is important to take good care of the face and keep the forehead wrinkles clean and smooth to prevent inflammation. A well-known health problem is that the French Bulldog is prone to food allergies. Therefore, pay particular attention to the nutrition of your four-legged friend and the ingredients of the feed. Be sure to buy your French Bulldog from a reputable breeder who also has an eye on hereditary diseases caused by breeding. Profile – Breed: French Bulldog Origin: France Classification: Companion and service dogs Size: Up to 35cm shoulder height Weight: 8-14kg Physique: Compact, muscular, agile, square head with short nose and muzzle, twisted tail Eyes: Circular and dark coloured Ears: Upright bat ears Fur and colour: fine, short haired, uniform in all shades of colour. Many variations of colour; unwanted colours: mouse, grey, brown, black with red fire Special feature: Is sensitive to high temperatures and cold, afraid of water Character: Intelligent, playful, cuddly, good-natured, balanced and brave Maintenance: Brushing, special care for eyes, ears and skin folds

Have you ever heard of a Eurasier? Possibly not, the breed is not even half a century old yet, and not as popular as fellow breeds that have a long history. However, that will change; the affectionate and clever Eurasier with its friendly character, dedication to its people and last but not least its robustness in health finds more and more fans. A dog from the 1960’s In the 1960’s behavioural researcher Konrad Lorenz thought about the nature of crossbreeding dogs with the Chow Chow. Inspired by these studies and supported by Lorenz, Julius Wipfel decided in 1960 at the University of Göttingen to specifically pair Wolfsspitze and Chow-Chows. The result; a family polar dog ​named the Wolf-Chow. The new dog was then refined with Russian Samoyed in the 1970s and has been running since 1973 with official recognition from the Kennel Club and its French counterpart FCI under the name Eurasier. The dogs are among the youngest pedigree dogs and bring with them all the qualities that are expected from a family dog. Character of the Eurasian The Eurasier is characterised by its calm and balanced character, coming across confident and friendly while being very loyal to their family. They tend to treat people they don’t know with caution, but without fear or aggression. However, you must be aware of their breeding and therefore make sure they know the pack order. Especially with males, otherwise they will try to achieve a more dominant position within the family. The Eurasier develops a particularly sensitive relationship with its people and because of this puts itself in as an integral member of the family. They tend to have a high threshold of stimulation and are therefore not easily disturbed, because of this their hunting instinct is not very pronounced. They are usually fairly well tolerated with other dogs but demand variety in activities. Raising and keeping the Eurasian There are no specific difficulties in the upbringing of a Eurasier, however, consistency is a must when it comes to the pack leader. Interference for example from a dog trainer can unsettle the animal. As with all dogs, consistency, patience and love are the three main elements. Well educated, willing to learn and balanced, the Eurasier proves to be an uncomplicated leisure companion. With their keen eye for attention, they are always in control of their surrounding areas and territories, but do not bark at the slightest of noises and are therefore welcome in most places. They do need employment and exercise so that they are fully utilised and find it enjoyable accompanying you everywhere you go, whether it be jogging, cycling or walking. Due to the strong relationship with his people, he should not be given to someone else or a dog boarding, not even for a short time. Please take this into account with regard to future vacation planning and your professional situation. Care of the Eurasian The Eurasier's coat is naturally self-cleaning. Grooming is therefore uncomplicated and limited to brushing twice a week. You should only comb out the undercoat when you are changing fur. In terms of health, the Eurasier is extremely robust and has no hereditary predisposition to disease. Profile – Breed: Eurasians Origin: Germany Size: Male 52-60cm shoulder height. Female 48-56cm shoulder height Weight: Male 23-32kg. Female 18-26kg Anatomy: Muscular, medium-long neck, strong Eyes: Medium sized, dark Ears: Triangular, medium sized, stand up Fur and colour: Thick undercoat, long haired, colour wolf grey, fawn, red, black, black with white Particularities: Blue or blue spotted tongue Character: Confident and balanced, strong bond to people, reluctant towards strangers, high stimulus threshold Maintenance: Brush twice a week, change coat daily

Cheeky, sometimes a bit stubborn and extremely loving; the cheerful bundle of joy from our little island takes most peoples’ hearts by storm. The English Cocker Spaniel is adaptable, friendly and playful. No wonder it has been in the top ten most popular dogs in England for so many years, while recently making the top five. It would be hard to envisage a person who couldn’t fall in love with the cheerful charmer. Browsing passion and play instinct Records from the 14th century suggest that an early form, mainly used as a hunting dog already existed at the time, which makes the English Cocker Spaniel one of, if not the oldest spaniel breed. Spaniels are also mentioned in Shakespeare’s works, distinctions were here made between field spaniels and the smaller variant, cocking or cocker spaniels. The career of the modern English Cocker Spaniel in British hunting circles began in the 19th century, they were utilised as rummaging dogs. The agile animal tracked down poultry and small game in the undergrowth and drove it to its owners where they would pull the trigger. The first spaniel club was then founded in 1885 and breed standards were thus defined. Since the mid-1940s, the English Cocker Spaniel has been recognized as an independent breed and has, as well as a family dog, been in demand as a working dog in drug searches. Character of the English Cocker Spaniel As for the character of the English Cocker Spaniel, their character embodies a personable, uncomplicated family dog. They are tender and cuddly, love to play and run around, and with their cheerful nature, they spread a good mood all around. Sometimes they can be slightly stubborn, as they are very attached to their people, but as a normal rule of thumb, they make friends quickly, including strangers as they are prone to trust most people. In general, they are considered to be chirpy dogs that are happy for the majority of the time due to their original tasks as hounds and rummage dogs. If they are allowed to roam freely you will have a charming companion on your hands. Education and keeping of the English Cocker Spaniel When receiving the occasional approach of obstinance you can counteract this fairly easily with consistent upbringing and by exploiting their weakness for treats. This is a very good way to make sure your pal learns that they can’t take the mickey out of you. They will cooperate enthusiastically if you challenge them with intellectual stimulation and tasks for their sensitive nose. Thanks to their agile and bright temperament, you will find a leisure companion for jogging, cycling and other outdoor activities in the English Cocker Spaniel. When you think about the initial breeding is it fairly intuitive to realise that their true love comes from retrieving games involving energy and enthusiasm. Care of the English Cocker Spaniel For grooming, you need to schedule daily brushing and a visit to the dog groomer every two months. In particular, the long droopy ears must always be taken care of to prevent inflammation and to detect foreign objects such as grass awnings. Cocker Spaniels are never averse to an extra bite, make sure that the dog doesn't get too fat. The life expectancy of the English Cocker Spaniel is very variable and is between 10 and 17 years. Profile – Breed: English Cocker Spaniel Origin: Great Britain Classification: Rummage, retriever and water dogs Size: Male 39-41cm shoulder height. Female 38-39cm shoulder height Weight: 12.5-14.5kg Anatomy: Compact, medium-sized, slightly sloping back, deep chest, strong paws, tail carried at back height, large paws Eyes: Large, not prominent, dark with gentle alert expression Ears: Long, lop-eared Fur and colour: fur lies flat, soft, dense and silky, longer feathered on ears, belly and tail. Colours black, red, brown with variants Particularities: Above average smell performance Character: Cuddly, playful, loyal, spirited Maintenance: Brush or comb daily, trim long haired areas every two months

If you are looking for a gorgeous dog that may look fairly intimidating but in reality is a loyal companion with a very relaxed temperament, the Bernese Mountain dog is the one for you. Due to their calmness and self-confidence, this Swiss dog qualifies as a level headed rescue and search dog. As a calm and people-related leisure companion, the impressive Swiss man cuts an ideal figure. From Farm dog to show darling The Bernese Mountain Dog was widespread in rural Switzerland. There they guarded herds, house, and yard; their strength was also used for pulling dogs in front of milk carts. The breed has since been systematically bred since 1892, and in 1910 the Bernese Mountain Dog came to England and aroused the interest of dog lovers at dog shows. They have since been the darlings of dog shows ever since. Character of the Bernese Mountain Dog The character of the Bernese Mountain Dog radiates cosiness, which is also reflected in its good-nature. Bernese mountain dogs are generally considered to be loving, however, don’t be surprised by the odd act of catty temperament. If you have a young family with small children this dog isn’t recommended, because the Bernese Mountain Dog can also be stubborn and surprises with its own ideas. On the other hand, the character of a well-behaved Bernese mountain dog is characterized by anticipatory obedience: the animal thinks and instinctively makes the right decisions. Your life at the side of a Bernese Mountain Dog will definitely not be boring. Raising and keeping the Bernese Mountain Dog Not necessarily seen as an athlete, however, the Bernese Mountain Dog still loves to move around and needs a lot of exercise, mainly in the form of long walks as opposed to running and romping around. They are the ideal companion for long hikes, but not for sporty jogs or a cycling partner. As soon as they see snow they are unstoppable. They love romping around in winter. They also know exactly what they want. When they don't feel like it, they deliberately put their lop-ears down and show themselves as a joker with a penchant for nonsense. When raising the Bernese Mountain Dog, you have to demonstrate consistency, empathy and patience, even if the gentle giant is charming. Moreover, your living situation is important for keeping a Bernese Mountain Dog: the large dog needs a lot of space therefore a home with access to the garden is ideal. Grooming the Bernese Mountain Dog The Dog is perfectly comfortable in the cold and winter due to their thick coat that keeps them warm. To keep the coat of the Bernese Mountain Dog in good order, you should brush it out at least every two days, we recommend grooming every day when changing fur. The four-legged friend only needs a bath in exceptional cases. Pay attention, especially with a young dog, to the composition of their food: As with other large dog breeds, the feed should not be too high in protein, as this can promote diseases later in life. Due to its size, the Bernese Mountain Dog is prone to hip and elbow dysplasia. Gastric twists, kidney failure and an increased risk of cancer (histiocytosis, lymphosarcoma) are further breed-typical diseases. Profile- Breed: Bernese Mountain Dog Origin: Switzerland Classification: Molossoids, Pinscher and Schnauzer, Swiss Mountain Dogs Size: Male 64-70cm shoulder height. Female 59-66cm shoulder height Weight: Male 45-50kg. Female 35-40kg Anatomy: Stocky limbs, strong muscles Eyes: Almond shaped, dark brown Ears: Large, high hanging lop ears Fur and colour: lush, long, wavy, soft, shiny fur; black, brown-red burn, with white markings on the head and chest and tip of the paws and tip of the tail Particularities: Loves snow Character: Loyal, good natured and cuddly Maintenance: Brush every two days groom every day when changing fur

Probably familiar with the most famous beagle in the world: Snoopy is loved by all. His real life counterparts don’t fare too differently, considered to be very good-natured and philanthropic, while slightly stubborn, these dogs are also very well loved. Their character makes these hunting dogs ideal family dogs, especially if you have small children. Flowering time in the Tudor courtyard’s The origins of the beagle can be traced back centuries ago with the first written mention of the beagle made in England during the Tudor reign. While many groups of animals were kept at the royal court by the Tudors, for example as cattle or drag dogs, the beagles were used to hunt rabbits. The beagle has been officially recognized as an independent dog breed since 1890. According to the current breed standard, the size of the beagle is about 33 to 40 centimetres shoulder height, however, interestingly enough earlier breeding forms were significantly smaller with the dog able to fit inside a saddlebag. Character of the beagle The Beagle is a very sociable, lovable and peaceful dog who hardly ever shows aggressive behaviour towards people and is even friendly to strangers. Because of these traits, the beagle is immediately disqualified from being a watchdog or guard dog, as they are just too sweet and respectful. Nevertheless, beagles are very intelligent and have an unshakable self-confidence paired with a certain stubbornness that results in a unique ability to find solutions to all problems put in front of them. They are very owner centric and follow their people everywhere, if a small weakness is detected they will take advantage of this however and will be done very innocently. Education and keeping of the beagle Society and exercise are the most important factors in keeping a beagle. The beagle requires a lot of stimulation and movement to let off steam, long walks with exciting scent trails are ideal for the beagle. Scent tracing is in the beagles’ blood, so when out walking if the beagle has picked up a track it is very difficult to break their direction. For this reason, beagles are used by police and security services if they need to latch on to a smell to find something. If you plan to keep your beagle in a property with low fences you should be aware that low fences are no match for a beagle on the hunt. Despite all meekness, the beagle is not a beginner dog: the working and hunting dog is a large part of the beagle character, which is why you should bring experience, assertiveness and a lot of patience to the upbringing. The most important lesson you should take when bringing up a beagle is that it needs to realise you are in charge right away and when you say their name they must come back to you as if they choose the hunt over you, you may have a torrid time with them. Care of the beagle While the short beagle fur is undemanding and needs occasional brushing and a shower with dog shampoo if necessary, you should pay special attention to ear care, this is because the lop ears tend to get inflamed if you neglect them. Also, pay attention to the slim line of your beagle: the hungry four-legged friend tends to be overweight, which must be balanced with sufficient exercise. Depending on the size of the dog, the weight of an adult beagle is between 10 and 18kg. Furthermore, check the claws regularly and shorten them if necessary. If looked after properly beagles can live to be about 15 years old. Profile Breed: Beagle Origin: Great Britain Classification: Hounds, hunting dogs Size: 33-40cm shoulder height Weight: 9-18kg Anatomy: Compact, muscular, high set, thick tail Eyes: Dark or hazelnut brown, gentle expression Ears: low lying floppy ears Fur and colour: Tight and water repellent short haired, black white brown or white with brown red or lemon tones Particularities: Extremely friendly but also greedy Character: Good-natured and friendly, keen to move Maintenance: Easy to clean, brush occasionally look after ears

If you’re after a family pet or leisure companion then the Australian Shepherd is not for you. This four-legged friend is a spirited workaholic who would rather be put to work on a farm than lounge around the house all day, the Australian Shepherd loves the role of keeper or ‘herder’ and if you have enough breed-relate tasks to offer, it will act as an active and loyal companion. The American that came from Australia The name of this dog breed actually creates a fair bit of confusion as despite being called the Australian Shepherd, the dog breed is not actually from Australia, but rather America originally. Around the turn of the 20th century, many sheep were exported from Australia to the United States. To help herd sheep, many trained herding dogs were brought over with them. These clever pooches then found many dogs that were already native to the states and bred with them. Since 1977 the Australian Shepherd has had binding breed status however wasn’t until 1996 that they were officially recognised as a breed. They have now been common in Europe since the 1970s. Character and personality As with most sheepdogs, the character of the Australian Shepherd is characterised by numerous virtues. They are very intelligent and incredibly alert creatures, which is common for herd directors, due to their nature they are very hard working but also demanding. If you can offer the dog appropriate tasks, for example, actually use it as a herding dog, they will feel completely comfortable and do their job conscientiously to a very high standard. If used in the wrong way they can easily slip into bad habits and become fairly docile, and perhaps bad mannered but because of their work ethic, they aim to please their owners and will try to fulfil the tasks the owner demands of them. Upbringing and keeping of the Australian Shepherd Due to this magnificent dog’s intelligence and enormous zeal, the demands are high on the owner. They can weigh up to 32kg and depending on gender the shoulder height can be anywhere between 46 and 58cm. When you add the wily and lively temperament that the Australian Shepherds possesses into the mix, it becomes clear quite fast that you won’t be able to keep them down for long. The right environment for these dogs, perhaps fairly obviously, is the countryside with loads of space to roam and fresh air in an abundance. Tracking games intellectually challenge the dog the most, and because of this, the hardest thing to train this dog is when to stop and relax, to balance between activity and relaxation, to achieve this you need a lot of spare time, patience and empathy. Caring for the Australian Shepherd The fur is fairly easy to care for, you won’t need to brush more than once a week even during molting season. The life expectancy of the Australian Shepherd is 12 to 15 years. Unfortunately, the breed is susceptible to inherited diseases and disabilities such as deafness and blindness. Pay attention to a responsible breeder when buying. Profile- Breed: Australian Shepherd Origin: United States Classification: Cattle and herding dogs Size: Male 51-58cm shoulder height. Female 46-53cm shoulder height. Weight: 16-32kg Anatomy: Medium in size and well proportioned, slightly longer than they are high. Eyes: Blue, amber or brown, also spotted, marble or different colours. Ears: Triangular tilted ears, rounded at the tip. Fur and colour: Half long fur with dense waterproof undercoat, basic colours of black, red, black marbled and grey background, marbled red background with light beige often combined with white and copper. Particularities: A total of 16 different colour variants recognised by a combination of the basic colour if necessary, markings. Character: Vigilant, intelligent, docile, tireless, keen to work. Maintenance: Brush weekly, change fur daily.

Without their involvement, the police and security services would have a much harder job. The impressive Rottweiler, with its qualities as a guard and guard dog, is indispensable wherever there is something to protect or defend. The Rottweiler is not a typical leisure dog. However, if you value a four-legged protector, the Rottweiler is ideal, provided you have the necessary dog experience. Roman cattle guards, Germanic traders Rottweilers are among the oldest German dog breeds. However, their roots are beyond the Alps. The Romans brought not only cultural achievements but also animals to their conquered areas. They used the ancestors of the Rottweiler as guardians of cattle herds that served the legions as living provisions. Local cattle dealers were very impressed by the powerful dogs because they too had to lead their animals safely along the trade routes, so the original Rottweiler was thus brought to Germany. The Rottweiler has now been recognized as an official breed since 1910. With industrialization, their role as herding dog fell away in many places and their now current area of ​​responsibility is primarily in the police and military service. In some countries, there are special requirements for keeping Rottweilers. Nature and character of the Rottweiler Rottweiler’s are generally considered self-confident, daring and attentive dogs that haven’t completely abandoned the characteristics of their herding ancestors. Willingness to defend and a core sense of courage are the central characteristics, however, if they are not properly trained their willingness to defend can easily turn to dominance. It is your responsibility to explain to your Rottweiler that you are in charge and they have to submit, if this isn’t drilled in from early their behaviour can get out of hand. A lack of a proper upbringing or inadequate ties to their human pack leader can easily lead to aggression towards other dogs or humans. If you plan to own a Rottweiler you must not show any weakness or nervousness. Education and keeping The education of a Rottweiler belongs in the hands of an experienced and assertive owner, if you are a beginner dog owner then we would definitely not recommend a Rottweiler. They need constant tasks and activities that they can live out as work assignments. Because of this, the Rottweiler is often utilised as a working dog by the police and the military services. Without capacity utilization and intensive training, a Rottweiler is not suitable as a family and leisure dog. In addition to this, you must take into account the sheer bulk and strength that they possess. A person does not really compete with a Rottweiler if they want to go somewhere so not only must they be very well trained but you must also be strong enough to actually look after one. As a sports companion for an active owner and with sufficient intellectual support, a species-appropriate Rottweiler is an excellent companion. Caring for the Rottweiler The height of an average Rottweiler ranges from, depending on gender, 60 to 65cm, while the weight ranges from 42 to 50 kilograms. The animals tend to be overweight, so ration the feed and resist begging attacks. You should regularly clean your dog's drooping ears to prevent inflammation. For safety reasons, you should also get your Rottweiler used to wearing a comfortably-fitting muzzle in public. As with many large dogs, the life expectancy of the Rottweiler, at an average of ten years, is lower than that of smaller dog breeds. Due to heredity and their size, Rottweilers’ tend to have dysplasia and heart problems. Profile - Race: Rottweiler Origin: Germany Classification: Mollossiods, mastiff-like dogs Size: Male 61-68cm shoulder height. Female 56-63cm shoulder height Weight: Male 50kg. Female 42kg Body: Strong, compact, not clumsy, tail not horizontal to the body Eyes: Dark, medium-sized, almond shaped Ears: Medium-sized, fitted Fur and Colour: Firm, short double skin; colour black with red brown markings on face, chest, legs and tail Character: Confident, courageous, obedient, docile and friendly

They used to defend the houses of their owners from wild animals, but today the Rhodesian Ridgeback is a popular pedigree dog with an athletic stature and outstanding character. The impressive four-legged friend, with the back crest, is a versatile tracker, rescue dog or guard dog as well as a loyal family companion. History from Africa The Rhodesian Ridgeback originally comes from the wilds of South Africa and Zimbabwe (formally known as Rhodesia). Their ancestors are the wild dogs that still live there; however, they were bred with English hunting dogs. The result was an impressive, muscular dog that was initially used to guard farms against big cats and to hunt game. The Rhodesian Ridgeback is characterized by a lot of courage and self-confidence, paired with friendly intelligence. They first came over to the United Kingdom in the 1920s and have remained part of the landscape ever since due to their incredible stature and loyalty, because of this the Rhodesian Ridgeback is the only dog breed from South Africa or Zimbabwe that has ever been internationally recognised since the ’20s. Character of the Rhodesian Ridgeback In short, you would have to describe them as dignified and intelligent. However they have a lot more to them, independent decision-making and problem-solving were fundamental for the hunting dog when lion hunting. The Rhodesian Ridgeback has its own head and is very assertive. If they have accepted their owner as a leader, they can be well educated with positive reinforcement. Once the relationship between you and the animal is established, it shows itself to be faithful and loyal. The Rhodesian Ridgeback benefits from the quick grasp and evaluation of its ancestors: it mostly assesses unknown situations correctly and instinctively reacts appropriately. Raising and keeping the Rhodesian Ridgeback The Rhodesian Ridgeback is not a dog for beginners! If you choose this breed, you should have experience in dog ownership and a confident demeanour. Also, you must not lose sight of the breed-typical hunting instinct of the Rhodesian Ridgeback. In order to get this under control, the dog needs an appropriate workload, space to run and a consistent upbringing. If ever in doubt, seek the advice of an experienced dog trainer as you do not want these marvellous dogs to overrun you. Due to the Rhodesian Ridgeback remaining a puppy until the age of three, if trained well and offered a variety of activities you will have a relaxed, balanced and loyal dog by your side. Due to their athletic nature, they are the perfect companion for a runner or cyclist as endurance and speed are their fortes. The ridgeback must never be kept in a kennel as this can agitate them a lot, and further to this a large garden is recommended. Be wary if you have small children as due to their size they can injure without meaning to, so be careful. Care tips for the Rhodesian Ridgeback The short coat of the Rhodesian Ridgeback is very easy to care for; however, the animals shed all year round, so brushing loose fur daily is advisable. Since the dog has little undercoat, it must not be allowed to get too cold, be especially careful in winter, by keeping them moving while outside. Profile - Breed: Rhodesian Ridgeback Origin: South Africa and Zimbabwe Classification: Running and hunting dogs and related breeds Size: Male 63-69cm shoulder height. Female 61-66cm shoulder height. Weight: Male 36kg. Female 32kg (although it is not uncommon for ridgebacks to be significantly heavier even as much as 50kg Anatomy: Muscular, deep chest, tail slightly curved Eyes: Round and clear, should harmonise with the colour of the fur Ears: High approach, medium size, close fitting Fur and colour: Short haired; light or red wheat coloured, occasionally with a dark “mask”, small white marking aren’t uncommon Particularities: Fur strips against the direction of the ridge on their back Character: Friendly, intelligent, spirited, distinctive hunting instinct, reserved around strangers Maintenance: Daily brushing with rubber harrow, sheds hair all year round

“Life without a pug is possible. But Pointless” – Loriot (German humorist). And said with good reason, the pug is a lively charming and loyal companion, yet loving and affectionate. You can’t resist their grumpy face and big eyes, however, do not be fooled, pugs are intelligent and know exactly what arms to pull in order to wrap their people around their paws. The emperor’s doggie The Pug is an aristocratic dog in its ancestry, with origins that go back to China around 2000 years ago, where it was only allowed to be kept by monarchs as the “imperial dog”. In the 16th century, pugs came to Europe via Dutch dealers. Here they were soon also very popular among aristocratic circles; Queen Victoria was known to have kept a whole pug pack. The quirky dog ​​was quickly featured in vogue as a fashion animal in fine women's circles. At the same time, the breed began to degenerate because the pug, as a living accessory in the salons, did not lead a dog life appropriate to the species. Interest in the pug faded at the end of the 19th century; however, they are currently experiencing a revival. The Pug as a domestic dog With a size up to 32 cm shoulder height, the pug is one of the so-called mini Molossers. They were not born to be a sports dog or watchdog, but have a career in another area, they are an ideal companion dog, especially for seniors. For this, their attachment and their need for physical contact predestine them. Due to its small size, it is well suited as a city and apartment dog. The pug is also a good beginner dog as they are compatible with children and other pets. Pugs like water and do enjoy retrieving games, however, they are by no means athletes, jogging and running on a bike are not suited for this gorgeous breed of dog. They are much more suited to extensive digging and romping, climbing on sofas and even their owners. Climbing stairs is unhealthy for Pugs so perhaps it is better to have your pug on your arm. Health and care of the pug The care of this dog breed is demanding. The fur, usually in the pug colours of beige or black, is easy to care for, however, regular brushing is necessary because the pug tends to shed hair. The face needs extensive care and the skin folds must be kept clean and supple, your vet will have special care products for the ears, and regular cleaning of the eyes and nose is also mandatory. Also, pay attention to a balanced diet, pugs tend to be overweight, which they cannot compensate for through exercise. Due to their short nose, pugs are predisposed to respiratory diseases which is down to their breeding. Today, breeders are trying to give the pug a little more "nose" to counteract these problems. Furthermore, the protruding eyes cause problems with the cornea, and approximately every hundredth pug suffers from pug dog encephalitis, an inflammatory disease of the central nervous system. Be sure to buy your pug from a reputable breeder and find out more about the parent animals! So that you can enjoy living with your Pug for as long as possible. Profile- Breed: Pug Origin: China Classification: Companion and service dog Size: Up to 32cm shoulder height Weight: 6.5-9kg Anatomy: Curled tail, short, round head, light bite, robust, compact body Eyes: Slightly protruding Ears: Button or rose ears Fur and colour: short haired, soft, smooth-fitting; Colours beige, black, apricot, white or silver with black face mask Particularities: is sensitive to heat and physical exertion Character: affectionate, funny, brave and agile Maintenance: Daily brushing, special care for ears and skin fold necessary.

Its beauty makes it a star at exhibitions, but the agile poodle is anything but a fashion dog: intelligent, sporty and people friendly, the lovable dog is suitable as a family member as well as for responsible dog jobs. Whether you opt for the tiny toy poodle or an impressive large poodle is of secondary importance. This special breed enchants in all dimensions and colour variants. From duck hunter to companion dog In England for a long time now, poodles have been one of the most popular dog breeds. The word poodle is derived from the old German word for puddling, meaning splashing in water. A reference to the early use of the poodle, as hunting dogs they were used to retrieve waterfowl. France is however considered as the country of origin for these marvellous pedigree dogs. At the end of 19th Century, fine society began to take an interest in the poodle, and soon enough the dog with the slightly prancing gait became a fashionable dog for women. Character of the Poodle The character of the poodle is an irresistible mixture of intelligence, charm and zeal, great friendliness and conviviality. The poodle tries to connect with its people and wants to be with them everywhere. Thanks to these properties, the poodle is also used as a talented utility guide and protective dog, as well as a rescue dog. They also have a penchant for self-expression and show talent, they love to please and be recognised, which is perhaps why they are so content with being entered into pedigree shows. Education and keeping of the poodle The friendliness and intelligence of the poodle make them an easily trained dog. Power and stubbornness are rather alien to them, but nevertheless, they require stimulation and utilisation while at your side. With a poodle, you will find a persistent jogging partner who is enthusiastic about agility, obedience and above all retrieving. When it comes to keeping, you should always make sure that your poodle doesn’t get bored, this is because under challenged animals can become a real nuisance and this most certainly applies to poodles. Although they are attentive pets, they do have limited guarding capabilities, they are more suited as a companion and this translates to the city or the countryside, as long as they get adequate walks wherever they are. Since the poodles' skin is not hairy they are also suitable for allergy sufferers. Sizes of different poodles A speciality of the poodle is that there are four different sizes in which the dog appears. The smallest, so-called toy poodle comes in at around 24-28cm and weighs between 2 and 4kg, minuscule compared to the king poodle which reaches a shoulder height of 60cm and weighs between 18 and 25kg. Care of the poodle The pretty curly fur of the poodle needs special care that goes far beyond occasional grooming: you have to brush the dog daily and, which is only necessary in exceptional cases with other breeds, also regularly bathe. You should entrust the taming of the rapidly growing wool to an experienced dog groomer every two months, or you should acquire the appropriate skill with the trimmer. Profile – Breed: Poodle Origin: France Classification: Companion and utility dogs Size - Toy poodle: 24-28cm Size - Miniature poodle: 28-35cm Size - Small Poodle: 35-45cm Size - King poodle: 40-60cm Weight - Toy poodle: 2-4kg Weight - Miniature poodle: 3.5-6kg Weight - Small poodle: 7-12kg Weight - King poodle: 18-25kg Anatomy: Athletic with short back, high tail, narrow muzzle Eyes: Slightly sloping Ears: Lop ears Fur and colour: Woolly structure, ruffled, fine. Colours; black, white, brown, grey, apricot, reddish, Rarely two-tone, no hair on skin Particularities: Four sizes and two fur types: wool and lace poodle Character: Agile, docile, intelligent, friendly and loyal Maintenance:Elaborate grooming, daily brushing, regular bathing, bimonthly shearing

Imposing, cuddly and incredibly gentle, the Newfoundland dog, which reminds most people of a bear, is, in fact, a lovable philanthropist. To give him a suitable home, you need lots of space and should make sure that you have enough attention for your cuddly Canadian friend. Moreover, if you live by the sea or near a body of water you may have discovered the ideal four-legged friend with the Newfoundland dog. Viking ships and fishing boats Thousands of years ago Vikings landed on the coast of Newfoundland, accompanied by large bear dogs. Some remained on the island after the departure of the Nordic seafarers and following this they met the dogs of the Native Americans. The next settlers appeared in the 17th century and they too had animal companions with them. Mixing these dogs with the offspring of the Vikings’ dogs gave rise to a bear like dog, a powerhouse that did great things as a sled and a working dog on fishing boats. Water has since remained their niche, and legend has it that a Newfoundland dog once saved Napoleon from drowning when he fled Elba. Character of the Newfoundland In a Newfoundland dog, you have the true character of an angel on four paws, known for their brilliant naturedness, peacefulness and patience. The incredibly hard working dog also has a calm and balanced nature, is normally always child friendly and has a very pronounced rescue drive. With good reason, Newfoundland dogs are coveted workers as water rescue dogs. In addition, they are extremely affectionate and always in need of love. They are a cuddly bear that ties themselves very closely to their people and always wants to be around them. Raising and keeping the Newfoundland dog The massive Newfoundlander does not feel comfortable in an apartment where they don’t have much room to move. This is because they come in a very large 71cm shoulder height on average for males and 66cm for females. For the species appropriate keeping on one of these beasts, a lot of space and time is required for the animal to gain sufficient exercise and employment. However, even a beginner can succeed when it comes to raising a Newfoundlander as all that is required is a little consistency and a lot of empathy. Neglect and other behavioural negligence can lead to problems. Built into their ancestry is a need to be challenged physically and intellectually by the weather, so on hot days make sure the dog always has access to shade and an opportunity to cool down. Caring for the Newfoundlander You guessed it: due to its special, lush coat of hair, grooming is very complex for the Newfoundlander. Careful care is also important because neglected Newfoundland fur develops an unpleasant smell. The dog often has to be combed and brushed to avoid matting. Pay special attention to the chest, ears and inside of the elbows. You should only bathe the Newfoundland dog in exceptional cases and for cleaning purposes you should absolutely use a moisturizing bath additive in order not to damage the protective film typical of the breed. Due to their size and rapid growth, the animals tend to have hip and elbow dysplasia. Heart problems can also occur. The life expectancy of a healthy Newfoundland dog is on average ten years. Profile – Breed: Newfoundland dog Origin: Canada Classification: Molossoids, Pinscher, Schnauzer Size: Male 60-74cm shoulder height. Female 63-69cm shoulder height Weight: Male60-70kg. Female 45-55kg Physique: Large, strong, bear like, massive body with hanging long tail Eyes: Almond shaped dark brown Ears: Triangular and close-fitting, relatively small rounded tip Fur and colour: moderately long, dense fur with a soft undercoat, colour black and white, brown or black Particularities: Water-repellent grease film in the fur Character: Intelligent, good natured, fond of children, protective and rescue instinct, affectionate and in need of love Maintenance: comb and brush frequently, rarely bathe

The Labrador is one of the most popular dog breeds worldwide, and it’s not surprising for good reason. With its friendly character and docile nature, the loyal four-legged friend is an exemplary companion. Because of their versatility, the Labrador is highly valued as a working dog and often is utilised as a guide dog for the blind, as rescue workers and professional sniffer dogs. Let yourself be enchanted by their good nature and loyalty. From a ship dog to family favourite A direct ancestor of the Labrador is the Newfoundland Water Dog, this breed was particularly used by British fishermen who were out fishing in Newfoundland about 500 years ago. Without any fear of water, their dogs jumped into the sea to retrieve fishing nets and lines or to fetch fish that had fallen out of the nets. In the mid-19th century, the Newfoundland all-rounders also became known in England. British hunting enthusiasts began to take an interest in them and decided to breed a new breed out of them – The breed almost went extinct in 1870, however by 1903 the Labrador Retriever was finally officially recognized. Essence of the Labrador The Intelligent Labrador is a very good natured, happy dog with great affection for its people, especially with children whom they have an excellent connection with. The nature of the Labrador is sensitive and peaceful while having a strong urge to please his owner. They love any praise that is given to them! They are versatile and resilient and don’t lack any courage, however, on the other hand, the Labrador is not suitable as a guard dog or protective dog, as it is as friendly to strangers as it is with its own people and shows little distrust. Perseverance, speed and an excellent nose are also further characteristics of this pedigree dog. They also tend to be lovers of water. Raising and keeping the Labrador They are very docile dogs, whose education is normally very easy, even if you don’t have much experience with dogs you shouldn’t find it hard to bring up a Labrador. With good upbringing, no one can trump the Labrador in terms of affability and friendliness. If you are an active or sporty person or family then this breed is perfect for you, without adequate exercise and demand, like many larger dogs, they can develop behavioural problems. However, with the right training, all they want to do is let off steam at the side of their people. In the spirit of their ancestors, they are big fans of extensive retrieval and search games. And if you take the opportunity to let them track you can take full advantage of your Labrador Retriever. If they are given ample opportunity to play in water, you have a satisfied and balanced dog by your side. Care of the Labrador Since the Labrador has hair all year round, it has to be brushed daily, so try not to forget about this if a new dog owner. Pay attention to your dog's diet: Labrador Retrievers are not food savers and easily add extra pounds, which can then strain the joints. As with many large dogs, there is a predisposition to elbow and hip dysplasia. Regardless of their preference for swimming, you shouldn't bathe your Labrador Retriever if possible. Soap-containing care products destroy the natural protective film typical of the breed on the skin. Profile – Breed: Labrador Retriever Origin: Great Britain Classification: Retrievers, rummaging and water dogs Size: Male 56-57cm shoulder height. Female 54-56cm shoulder height Weight: Male 32-35kg. Female 27-30kg Anatomy: Medium to large sized, muscular, with a distinctive skull and broad chest, thick tapering tale (otter tail) Eyes: Medium sized brown-hazelnut colour Ears: Medium-sized floppy ears Fur and colour: short haired with thick undercoat, no feathering. Black, chocolate brown, light beige, fox red Particularities: Protective film on the skin Character: Loving, good natured, active, resilient and brave Maintenance: Hair all year round, therefore brush regularly, do not bathe.

They are small, nimble and enthusiastic with a droll nature that’s hard not to love. The Jack Russel is a charming clown and very clever at the same time. However, that shouldn’t hide the fact that the little dog needs consistent training and an experienced owner. There is a thoroughbred hunting dog in every Jack Russell, nonetheless as long as they are kept to their character, they will develop into a balanced family dog. The hunter from the Rectory The Jack Russell actually bears its name from its first breeder; the pastor John Jack Russell, who was a passionate fox hunter and used to breed fox terriers. In 1890 he bought a female Terrier named Trump who turned out to be the progenitor of this charming breed. After foxes settled in Australia in 1850 there was a new need for fox hunting terriers. England also had a problem so this breeding style continued on both continents. The characteristics of the Jack Russell Terrier, especially the physique matched the conditions of the differing local areas. The British variant developed with slightly longer legs compared to its Australian counterpart, however the term Jack Russell Terrier is commonly used for body types. Character of the Jack Russell Fearlessness and self-confidence, perhaps up to a slight megalomania characterise the Jack Russell. The agile four-legged friend cannot hide its origin as a fearless hunter, they are often found chasing everything that moves, from squirrels to the neighbour’s cat. With retrieving games you can steer this hunting instinct towards regulated paths. But be warned, they love games more than most and can remain entertained for hours. Vigilant and smart, Jack Russell’s are also good watchdogs. They are very affectionate and constantly seek contact with their owner. It should be noted that they are incredibly courageous and anything or anyone that comes in their way will be barked at as they are very communicative and brisk. Raising and keeping the Jack Russell Terrier Due to their heritage, the Jack Russell requires consistency and stimulus through stimulating employment. If there isn’t enough of this, they tend to turn to mischief and will take the mickey out of their owner as they don’t see them as the alpha. If they believe that they can challenge the social ranking of the family pack they will, so it is crucial that you make sure they learn who is in charge early on. The animals are generally well tolerated with older children; living with other pets should be carefully tested, however. Jack Russell’s like to dig for their lives and do not stop at well-tended flower beds. Nevertheless, with a good upbringing, they will obey, can be called up and adapt to their owner in their activities. The small bundle of energy needs a lot of exercise and ideally a plot of land that it can guard and defend. Jack Russell Terriers are comfortable with active people who devote a lot of time to them and romp with them. Tips for grooming the Jack Russell Grooming is rather easy with their smooth-haired bodies. Brushing and combing are sufficient, however, sometimes a trim is required if they are shaggy. Get them used to regular checks of claws, eyes and teeth as they can be prone to tartare, this can, however, be prevented through appropriate chewing measures. Profile – Breed: Jack Russell Terrier Origin: Great Britain Classification: Terrier Size: 25-30cm shoulder height Weight: 5-6kg Anatomy: longer than they are tall, hanging tail Eyes: Dark and almond shaped Ears: V-shaped and folded forwards Fur and colour: short haired, smooth, base colour white with black brown or tan badges Particularities: Smart and witty Character: Fearless, confident, lively, friendly and intelligent Maintenance: Comb, brush, trim for wire-haired dogs regularly

Imposing while elegant at the same time: The Great Dane with its size and dignified nature is both impressive and inspiring. Despite its giant size and status, this dog does not want to intimidate people because the Great Dane is a breed full of gentleness and sensitivity. From Assyria to Germany First depictions of dogs similar in size to the Great Dane go back as far as Babylonian times however the first known Great Dane breed is known to have come from ancient Assyria and was spread around to the Romans and Greeks. They made quite a stir due to their stature and dominant size. They were so popular with the conquerors that they came to Britain and Ireland and crossbreeds with the Irish Wolfhound and English Mastiff were found, the result was gigantic dogs that were mainly kept at princely courts for representation. However, it wasn’t until the 1880s the breed was refined in Germany where breeders decided that the Great Dane would be separate from the crossbreeds and was called Deutsche Dogge or German dog, the name later evolved into the Great Dane. Nature and Character of the Great Dane The essence of the Great Dane can be summed up in one word: lovable. They are consistently friendly and loyal dogs that tie themselves closely to their people. Often found thinking they are smaller than they actually are, trying to sit on top of their owners’ laps. However do not be mistaken in thinking that they do not have a lively side, the Great Dane is very spirited and has an urge to be very lively and enthusiastic, sometimes with a cheeky side. They only tend to be aggressive if they are ill-bred and insufficiently socialised. When the Great Dane is balanced, you have a good-natured dog that shows itself to be a sensitive companion: Great Danes attentively interpret the body language of their owner. Raising and keeping of the Great Dane Great Danes are loyal companions for any family, however, as working and hunting dogs originally, you must remember that this is deep in their nature. Not only do they need a lot of your time they require a lot of space, they will feel cramped if your house is not big enough for them to have roam of it, in addition to this they need as much outdoor exercise as possible. Ideally, they are best suited to properties without stairs as this can cause joint damage due to their size. It is also a big advantage if you have a sufficient level of physical strength and assertiveness as if a 90kg dog wants to follow an interesting trial you have to be strong enough to deal with. They are therefore more suited to a life off the leash. Grooming the Great Dane On all fours, the average height of a Great Dane is 76cm however on hind legs they can easily surpass 6ft. At between 50 and 95kg, the Great Dane is an extremely large and heavy dog. Due to the slow metabolism, the animals tend to be overweight so pay attention to the dosage of the feed and sufficient exercise. In young dogs, the food must not be too high in protein, because of their considerable weight, Great Danes need a softly padded lying surface to relieve the bones. For this, fur care is very simple: regular grooming with a soft brush is enough to keep the coat shiny. The life expectancy of the Great Dane, at an average of eight years, is, unfortunately, lower than that of other dog breeds. Profile- Breed: Great Dane Origin: Germany Classification: Molossoids, Mastiff-like dogs Size: Male from 80cm shoulder height. Female from 72cm shoulder height. Weight: Male 80-95kg. Female 50-65kg. Anatomy: “Square” snout, muscular with a strong chest, very large, long tail. Eyes: Medium sized, dark, almond shaped Fur and colour: Smooth, shiny, short haired. Colours; black, blue, yellow brindle, spotted Particularities: Close ties to people, reluctant to be left alone. Character: Spirited, good natured, loving, cuddly. Maintenance: Brush regularly with a soft brush

Are you looking for a dog with a friendly character who is as obedient as it is trusting and with whom you can pursue sporting activities? With the Golden Retriever, you are spot-on: the retriever has become one of the most popular pedigree dogs in the country if not the world, and rightly so. In a Golden Retriever, you will find a four legged friend that is as intelligent as it is loveable. Dead shot: from retriever to agility fan With the development of firearms, hunters were able to shoot their game even at great distances, so this changed their requirements for the need of dogs in hunting. The animals no longer had to hunt the prey but rather now, bring the shot prey safely back to their owner. So came the hour of Golden Retriever, which is largely owed to the breeding efforts of the Scottish baron Tweedmouth in 1864. The noble crossed Wavycoated Retrievers with the Tweed Water Spaniel and the Irish Setter. The Golden Retriever owes much of its hunting talent to the work of its ancestors. Nevertheless, the Golden Retriever has been an officially recognised breed since 1913. Their zeal for work and their intelligence make them a sought after colleague for the police, emergency services and drug investigators as well as guide dogs thanks to their love and loyalty. Character of the Golden Retriever As a rule, they do not show aggressiveness or fear. The character of the golden retriever is characterized by openness and amiability. The dog is also very well tolerated with other species. Then there is the strong will to please their people. The Golden Retriever achieves this not only through their loving trustfulness but also through their enthusiasm for work and willingness to submit. Even beginners find it very easy to get along well with them. The Golden Retriever, on the other hand, is not suitable as a protective dog due to the lack of sharpness. A small weakness in character is gluttony. Upbringing and keeping of the Golden Retriever The size of the Golden Retriever varies depending on gender, anywhere in the region of 51 and 61cm shoulder height is normal. It is therefore deemed as medium to large sized dog. Extensive daily walks and sports sessions are mandatory, as due to their breeding nature they need space to roam around and joyfully play, a garden is also therefore needed. Loving consistency is needed to keep the dogs hunting instinct on the right track. In order to stimulate the dog's intelligence and to utilize its play instinct, you need a varied range of retrieval and action toys. It is advisable to bring a towel along the way, the Golden Retriever is a real water rat and if they see water, they will go in. Care of the Golden Retriever Grooming is simple. Brush your dog’s hair once a week, and only during shedding season. Ears and teeth should also be cared for to prevent inflammation. Due to the dog's undercoat, they are fairly cold resistant, but in the summer months be on high alert as if it gets very hot they can overexert themselves. Due to their healthy appetites make sure you stay on top of their diet as they are prone to being overweight. Due to increased demand in recent years, they have become rather fashionable and this has led to careless breeding, so always choose a reputable breeder. Their life expectancy is around 11 years. Profile- Breed: Golden Retrieve Origin: Great Britain Classification: Retrievers Size: Male 56-61cm shoulder height. Female 51-56cm shoulder height. Weight: Male 30-40kg. Female 25-35kg Anatomy: Harmonious and well proportioned, strong bones Eyes: Dark endearing expression Ears: Medium in size, set at eye level and falling Fur and colour: Weatherproof fur, flat or wavy with dense underwool and feathering on barrels and tail; golds Particularities: loves water, has light hair all year round Character: Kind, trusting, willing to work Maintenance: Brush weekly, change fur daily

Comparison of Feed Types: Dry, Wet or Raw When it comes to the feed types that suit your dog best, not only are certain breeds more accustomed and react better to certain types of feed, the owners lifestyle also plays as bigger a role as the animal's preferences.  What have you been feeding your dog so far? Dry or wet, or do you prefer raw feed? Offers are everywhere, the selection of brands and types of feed is so diverse and the science around what is best is constantly evolving that now it is extremely difficult to keep on top of things let alone know what's best for your dog. There is no exact rule on whether raw or better than dry or wet is better than raw, however one thing that is vital to look out for is to make sure whatever you buy says complete feed, as this will contain all the important nutrients your four legged friend needs.  While there is no one type that is better than the next, you should consider the individual needs or your own pet. Offering dry food to a dog that doesn't drink that much is definitely a bad idea. In the interests of your dog, if this is the case with yours, your best course of action would be to switch to wet food or perhaps a mix of both. A good choice of wet food that we would recommend for a dog that is lacking water and nutrients would be anything from the Barking Heads range. Barking Heads provides a delicious wet food recipe with added vitamins & minerals that also contains 85% free range chicken, and what’s better yet…it’s grain-free too!  Similarly if your dog is being fed wet food and is suffering with dental problems, then your best bet is to change the feed to dry as dry food can help fight against tartare in dogs. This is because the abrasion of the teeth from chewing reduces such deposits.  If you are thinking of doing one a range of dry dog foods we would suggest for you would be Carnilove. With a grain free, complete feed, Carnilove offers a balanced nutrition with 80% meat composition. Furthermore, the type of feed must also match the lifestyle and convictions of the person. Feeding your dog can be rather complex and you would have to acquire a lot of knowledge in advance, but if you do gain the relevant knowledge, you are able to one hundred per cent determine the protein source and the quality of the feed yourself.   Breakdown  Dry Food  Little effort Increased water requirement  High tooth abrasion Chewing apparatus is strengthened The amount of food is lower due to high nutrient density Wet Food  Little effort  Hardly any increased water requirement  Little tooth abrasion  Stress on chewing apparatus  Amount of food must be higher due to the low nutrient density  Raw Food  High effort  No increased water requirement  High tooth wear (if bones are fed)  Chewing apparatus is strengthened (if bones and cartilage are fed)  The amount of feed depends on the individual components  

Your Dog’s Nutritional Needs  Dogs need several different types of nutrients and minerals to survive. Dog food should always contain amino acids (found in protein), fatty acids, carbohydrates, vitamins, minerals and water. Every dog's needs will be slightly different depending on size, breed and age. Dogs cannot survive without protein making it the key element of their diet. Protein provides the building blocks for any dog and is essential for healthy skin, nails, muscles and bones. As dogs' bodies don't produce protein on their own, it is vital that protein is obtained through their diet daily. Many dogs are, however, allergic to chicken so make sure they are getting their protein in other ways. One product that is sure to offer your pooch their dietary requirement of protein without overloading with chicken is our Fish 4 Dogs range that is packed with Omega 3 and those vital vitamins and minerals! Check it out in-store or online here! It might sound obvious but make sure your dog always has a constant supply of water. Water makes up for 70 to 80 per cent of a mature dog’s lean body mass. It’s essential in dissolving and transporting nutrients, regulating body temperature and flushing waste out of the body, so keep them hydrated! Dogs are omnivores so they use carbohydrates as a source of energy, many carbohydrates have a lot of important fibres which will help keep your four-legged friend’s digestive system regular, aiding your dog to fight obesity. Many larger dogs are prone to obesity so don't overfeed your pooch. If you are worried about your dog's weight, then check out Barking Heads and their product Fat Dog Slim, made with only natural ingredients, this reduced fat recipe is solely aimed at dogs that need to lose a few pounds. You can have a look here or purchase in-store.  Dogs require different vitamins to humans to maintain a healthy life. Vitamin E supports a dog’s immune system, and Vitamin A helps to support a healthy coat and skin. They are found in a lot of vegetables so if your dog food doesn’t have them present, make sure you’re adding them in. Minerals like calcium and magnesium will improve your dog’s bodily function and prevent disorders and deficiencies.  Whilst fat is often seen as a demon, it is key to any diet. Dietary fat often derived from animals’ fats and seed oils are present in the majority of dog food. These essential fats help maintain a healthy coat and promote good joint health! If you are looking for a dog food that is packed full with fatty acids like DHA and EPA that promote brain and eye development then check out Go! Solutions in-store or online now! Find all of our ranges of dry and wet dog food to help your dog live a happy, healthy life now!

Which dog fits you best? Find out here which traits distinguish the dog breeds and what you should pay attention to when choosing a dog Do you want a pet and have you chosen a specific dog? So you are at the point of knowing you want a canine companion, the question arises which dog suits me best? Because you want to form a harmonious team with your dog a lot needs to be considered. Before you buy a dog, make sure that no one in the family is allergic to dog hair. If this is the case there are suitable dog breeds for allergy sufferers, which you must look into. Another criterion is appearance. It Is much more important that you meet the needs of your future loyal companion. Do you have enough space in your home? Can you keep the dog busy and make sure they get enough exercise? You should also consider the characteristics of each breed. Do you have children? Are your neighbours okay with having a potentially loud dog next door? Does your apartment block allow for animals? The list goes on. There are more than 340 dog breeds with different characteristics. You should find out what these are and what you should consider before buying a dog. What kind of character do you want from your dog? Just like us humans, dogs have many character traits. This goes back to their original roots and is still a massive part of their character traits. For example, there are dog breeds that are specially bred for herding. This fact has a big impact on their behaviour in everyday life. These breeds have an urge for employment and need a job to remain calm. They instinctively guard their pack or family as this was part of their original makeup. Herding dogs include German shepherds, Australian Shepherds, Border Collies and many more. Be aware that with these types of dogs you have to plan a lot of time to meet these breeds’ needs. They are considered obedient, attentive, active and eager to learn, and this is what they demand in everyday life. If they are not utilised as herding dogs, lots of dog sports must be had to keep them happy. Have you considered a Dachshund, Beagle or Terrier? Then you should be aware that you are bringing a hunting dog to your side. Their pronounced hunting behaviour cannot and should not be weaned from them. They are very devoted and loyal companions, but also require an understanding and consistent education. They have a watchful stubborn head and are very confident. While hunting dogs are generally considered fearless, they often treat the unknown with suspicion. You also have dogs like the Dalmatian and Rhodesian Ridgeback that are among the hunting dog category, however, these larger dogs are known as hounds and therefore need a lot more exercise. Jogging or cycling is ideal for these sporty animals. They are cuddly, friendly and sensitive, but often reluctant towards strangers. The Golden Retriever and Labrador Retriever are both popular family dogs – no wonder as they are extremely child friendly, balanced, alert but also extremely water loving. Like the English Cocker Spaniel, the breed is one of the retriever, rummage and water dogs. The Labrador supports fishermen and hunters in water game areas. How about a sociable buddy to chill and cuddle with on the sofa? Then the English/ French Bulldog or Pug comes into question. The medium-sized service dogs are evenly balanced but at the same time have a lot of fire in their buttocks. Their temperament makes for a lively roommate who is child friendly, docile, keen to play and have laughs with. Then there are other small dogs like the Chihuahua and Poodle which overall give you no time for boredom, just like with a domestic dog. These mainly include Pinscher and Schnauzers, but also other large breed dogs. The Bernese Mountain Dog and Great Dane are cuddly, good-natured and loving. The Rottweiler and the Boxer are also domestic dogs that look seriously impressive but have a friendly disposition. Domestic dogs are bred for a variety of purposes and are generally fond of children. Where do you live and how much space does the dog have? Another important aspect that must be assessed when choosing what dog is for you, is your living situation. Firstly there are certain dog breeds that are prone to joint disease, so shouldn’t really be kept in large houses where they have to climb stairs. Large dogs such as German Shepherds, but also dogs like Dachshunds and French bulldogs are more suited to living in an apartment because of this. Furthermore, if you live in a terrace house, you should probably think about choosing a quieter dog as opposed to one that is prone to barking loudly throughout the night, as this may cause a stir with your neighbours. Dogs like the Golden Retriever or Labrador are considered quiet residents as opposed to the Chihuahua which is perceived as a much louder companion. Moreover, there is the criterion of space, dogs like the Dalmatian demand a lot more space to roam and run around. While dogs like the pug or the bulldog are much more accustomed to city life and are quite happy to chill around the house. It is appropriate that you offer your dog a living space appropriate to its size. Where they can get the best of all worlds. How much experience do you have with dog training? You may look at a certain breed of dog that you have fallen in love with and really want, however, it is exactly as simple as that. Certain dogs require more experience than others and it is unfair on yourself and the dog if you take on a dog that is too much for you to handle. Even if you have experience with educating dogs, you may be capable of looking after certain hunting dogs, however, a dog like that of the Rottweiler may be a bit too much to handle. If a dog like this isn’t given the correct education then not only can they end up being too much to handle but they can become aggressive and hurt someone. If you are a starting dog life the perfect candidates would be breeds such as the poodle, Labrador or pug. Furthermore, it may be a good shout to bring in an older dog if you are just starting as they are already house trained to a further extent and take up less of your time with puppy training, which can be arduous. How much time can you devote to your dog? Which brings us to the next criterion: the time factor. With a dog, everyday life changes. You should always be aware of this. If you have a hound, you must allow enough time to go for a proper walk. If you opt for a herding dog, it needs employment in the form of agility or other dog training. Because utilisation means not only exercise but above all mental fitness. This is as important for a balanced dog as its food, social space and rest. Long-haired dog breeds like the Bernese Mountain Dog also require regular grooming - this too takes time. So you must take everything into account before signing off! How is the dog cared for when you’re not there? In today’s world more and more offices are becoming dog friendly, so take this into account but also if this is a viable option you must make sure you have a dog that is not only stranger friendly but friendly with other pets and isn’t bark friendly. If you opt to leave your pooch at home make sure they are well looked after in your absence as dogs should not be left alone for more than five hours. There are now doggy daycare centres that you can look into to avoid this from happening. Finally, you have to think about who is going to look after your four-legged friend when you go away, if they can’t come with you. There are doggy boarding houses, however, certain dogs need consistency and sending them to a boarding house could result in disaster. Male or female? It is often the case that women want a friendly female, while men prefer to have a strong partner at their side. Many families choose girls for convenience, as it can become tiresome during heat, which leads to many families spading. It should be said: The gender-specific arguments for or against a male or female remain much discussed. The fact is that even a girl can show strong territorial behaviour. This, in turn, depends on the breed and the development of the dog. You can inquire about the character, for example, from an animal shelter dog or professional breeder. Even with puppies, it can usually be seen quickly which of the small dogs has a strong territorial character and which is rather reserved. What are the costs for a dog? Unfortunately, many dog ​​owners underestimate the cost of a dog. Because in addition to the basic equipment such as food bowl, leash and collar, there are additional costs. There are veterinary costs for things such as vaccinations, spading and de-worming, as well as constant costs if your dog gets injured or ill. This can quickly add up and this is before health insurance gets added on top. Then there are costs like training schools or doggy daycare or boarding while you are away which aren’t cheap either. These are all expenses you must take into account. **Please always consider that every dog is individual. For some, the breed-typical characteristics are more and less pronounced in individual cases. **

They may not look like the bell of the ball, sometimes a bit intimidating, like when they are going to bite next. However all prejudices aside, this could not be more wrong, as the English bulldog is an endearing dog with a gentle temper and big heart. From fighting machine to the family mate Their intimidating appearance was bred for them. In England in the 13th century, the so-called "fighting dogs" were first mentioned in an important document. The animals were used as bull biters and proved their strength and intrepidity for a long time even in dog fights. Fortunately, they are now prohibited. In 1864 the first "Bulldog Club" in Great Britain took on the task of renewing the breed and making it a compatible family dog. English bulldog character With the English Bulldog, character traits such as pride, self-assurance and stubbornness are combined with soft sides such as loyalty, compassion and love, the dogs are extremely sensitive. Your gentleness manifests itself in great cuddling and love needs as well as friendliness towards children. The English bulldog does not cope well with rejection and must always be sure of the love of their people. They are generally active and alert, however, tend to be pretty cosy because their conditioning is so good. Relaxed chilling comes closer to the dog than sweaty active sports. The English Bulldog character also includes a good dose of humour, the dogs can be real clowns and love to make their people laugh and thus attract attention and praise. Upbringing and attitude of the English Bulldog When educating your English bulldog, coercion is a no go. They respond far better to love within a cooperative household, rather than being told what to do. They are suspicious of strangers and due to their muscly frame can be a fairly imposing dog. If you want a dog that acts as a discreet bodyguard, you have a loyal and reliable four-legged friend with the English Bulldog at your side. As a rule, the English Bulldog gets along well with fellow species and other animals, provided that it is not attacked. Because of the rather moderate urge to move, the animals can also be kept in a city apartment; of course, there must be enough daily exercise and walks. English Bulldog grooming Occasional brushing is sufficient for the short coat. Brushing is useful as a massage to stimulate blood circulation. The animals, which are already massive, tend to be overweight and thus to breathing and joint problems. Make sure that your dog does not get too fat, even if English Bulldogs are very charming beggars and have a good appetite. Special care is necessary for the skin folds on the face. To prevent inflammation, it must be cleaned regularly, for example with baby wipes. Unfortunately, due to the short snout, English bulldogs are predisposed to breathing problems. Fortunately, breeders today try to avoid the extreme characteristics of breed-typical traits. Pay attention to the seriousness of the breeder. Profile – Breed: English Bulldog Origin: England Size: 39-41cm shoulder height Weight: Male 25kg. Female 23kg Anatomy: Short body with a wide chest, large head with a broad muzzle and hanging lips Colour: Solid white, brown, reddish, yellow, possibly with a mask Fur Structure: Short, smooth and dense, of the same colour Eyes: Deep and far apart Ears: Rose ears Character: Confident, proud and idiosyncratic, sensitive, cuddly, in need of love and peacefulness Maintenance: Occasional brushing Particularities: Cosy appearance with wit and charm Classification: Molossoid, Pinscher, Schnauzer