Origin of the Spinone Italiano Dogs

The origin of the Spinone Italiano Dogs is still not known, even today. Some dog enthusiasts believe that the Spinone Italiano Breed came from the Celtic Wirehaired Stock. Others believe that these dogs came from Greece during the Roman Empires’ reign.

However, it is believed that the Spinone Italiano is one of the earliest breed of dogs that was used for pointing. Evidence shows that the Wirehaired Dogs were used since 500 B.C. Italian artwork from the fifteenth century shows dogs that closely resemble the Spinone Italiano.

There is no documentation available that describes the exact bloodline and development of the Spinone Italiano Breed. However, the breed of today can be traced back to Italy’s Piedmont region. These dogs were well known for their hunting skills with unyielding force through thorny brush retrieving small prey. They were also used in World War II to track down German Patrols.

When the war ended, the Spinone Italiano Dogs were no longer popular. Their numbers also decreased very fast and the few dogs that were left were crossed with other breeds. These dogs were almost extinct but with the help of enthusiastic breeders who wanted to remake the breed, the Spinone Italiano Dogs were brought back to life in the 1950’s. Their effort was successful and today the Spinone Italiano Dogs are one of the top breeds in Italy. In the year 2000, the American Kennel Club recognized this breed.

 Caring for the Spinone Italiano Dogs

Just like any other sporting dog, the Spinone Italiano Dogs require vigorous exercise every day to keep them healthy. This can be done either by hunting out in the fields or taking a long walk on the leash several times a day.

These dogs can live outside, if necessary, in both cold and hot temperatures. However, they are happier to be with the family sleeping inside the house. The Spinone Italiano Dogs are very affectionate and are considered one of the friendliest breed of dogs towards strangers and other pets.

Health issues of the Spinone Italiano Dogs

The only major health problem with this breed of dogs is CHD (Canine Hip Dysplasia). Some minor health issues include otitis externa, ectropion, cerebellar ataxia and gastric torsion. Allergies and elbow dysplasia are rare issues with this breed. It is recommended by veterinarians that these dogs be checked for potential hip and eye problems.  If well taken care of, a healthy Spinone Italiano Dog can live between twelve to fourteen years.

The Smooth Fox Terrier dogs are believed to be one of the most active and energetic dog that belongs to the Terrier group. These dogs really need to be very active so, they can do with any available space that would allow them to run around freely. They are great dogs for families that are very active and spend a lot of time outdoors. This would give them the opportunity they need to use up all the energy they have.

The Origin of the Smooth Fox Terrier

The Smooth Fox Terrier originated in England, and even though there does not exist any documentation about their ancestry, we do know that they go back to the late 1700s. By the early 1800s these dogs were very popular even before they started to participate in dog shows, and were one of the first breed of dogs to do so.

At first the Smooth Fox Terriers were used to chase fox and to hunt small animals. During these hunts they would be a part of the pack of Foxhounds that led the chase. The interbreeding of the Smooth Fox Terrier and the Wire Fox Terrier was practiced for a while, but that did not last too long.

This practice of interbreeding the two breeds was discontinued before the late 1900s and in 1985 the American Kennel Club recognized and classified both varieties as distinct breeds. The Smooth Fox Terrier has remained a moderately popular household pet. These dogs are also regular competitors in dog shows all over the world.

Caring for the Smooth Fox Terrier

Because the Smooth Fox Terriers are extremely energetic they definitely require daily exercise. If these dogs are left on their own for too long they will find something to do. We all know that this will only lead to frustration and probably destruction as well. It is necessary that these dogs have owners who love to spend quality time with their dogs.

Smooth Fox Terriers do well in moderately hot or cold temperatures. They can be outside as long as the weather is not extreme, but should be allowed to sleep indoors at night with the family. These dogs love human companionship and are very devoted to their owners. Smooth Fox Terriers shed a lot and need to be brushed thoroughly at least once a week to remove dead hair.

Health Issues with the Smooth Fox Terrier

The Smooth Fox Terriers are relatively healthy dogs and have no major health issue connected to them. Some minor health issues may include Legg-Perthes, cataracts, distichiasis and lens luxation.

Very rare patellar luxation and deafness may occur. It is recommended by veterinarians that you have your Smooth Fox Terrier tested for eye problem. If properly taken care of a healthy Smooth Fox Terrier may live between ten to thirteen years.

Skye Terriers are very sensitive but they can also be stubborn and bold. These dogs love human companionship and are very affectionate with members of the family. They are very playful and love the mental stimulation of dog training. Skye Terriers are cautious with other pets and especially with strangers, so they make excellent watchdogs.

The Origin of the Skye Terrier

The Skye Terrier originated in Scotland mostly in the west coastal area, dating back to the 1500s. They were mainly used to hunt fox and otter. They got their name because the purest of the breed was found along the Isle of Skye.

Even though the exact history of these dogs is still unknown, reference was made about them especially about their beautiful coats, sometime in the 16^th century. At first there were several breeds of these small terriers all grouped together under the same name.  In 1840 Queen Victoria became interested in the breed and the Skye Terrier that we know today became the official version. These dogs then became popular with the rich and poor alike.

The American Kennel Club recognized the Skye Terrier as an official breed in 1887, after which they soon became a popular show dog. Even though these dogs have very distinctive looks and hunting abilities, their popularity decreased and so did their numbers. Today they have become one of the least popular house pets.

Caring for the Skye Terrier

Skye Terriers are not very energetic dogs, so their exercise requirements can be met with a few walks on the leash every day. Being hunters at heart, they should be allowed time to explore outdoors in a safe area. They should not live outdoors but should be afforded the comfort of living inside.

If necessary these dogs make very good companions for people who live in small apartments. In order to keep the Sky Terrier’s long-haired coats neat, it is necessary to brush them thoroughly about two times a week.

Health Concerns for the Skye Terrier

The Skye Terriers are very healthy dogs that have no major health issues. The only minor health problem connected to this breed of dogs is premature closure of distal radius. With proper care and attention a healthy Skye Terrier may live between twelve and fourteen years.

The Silky Terrier, as they were now called, was the new breed that emerged from all the interbreeding. These dogs, unlike their ancestors, were medium in size and coat length.

The interbreeding of the Silky Terrier continued and very soon its own strain was established. Because these dogs originated in two different areas of Australia two breed standards were accepted, one in 1906 and the other in 1910.

The main difference between the two standard breeds was the weight but finally in 1926 one standard was established which included both breeds. With agreement from both sides, in 1955 the official name of these dogs became the “Australian Silky Terrier”.

It was during that same year that the Americans dropped the “Australian” from the title and officially named the dogs the Silky Terrier. Soon after that the American Kennel Club recognized this dog breed. Even though this type of dog is not rare, it has not become a popular house pet.

Characteristics of the Silky Terrier Dog

Even though Silky Terriers are small and are considered to be lapdogs, they are not as peaceful and quiet as you might think. These dogs are very high spirited and playful. They can become quite aggressive towards other dogs and house pets. Generally these dogs tend to bark a lot and are a bit difficult to train because they can be very stubborn.

Caring for the Silky Terrier

Silky Terrier dogs need more exercise than most other toy breeds. They require plenty of walks on the leash but what they love most is to be allowed to run around outside. A fenced in area outside is the ideal place for them to do so. The Silky Terrier dogs should not be left outside to live, but should be allowed to live indoors. To avoid matting of their long coats, these dogs require a good brushing every day.

Health Concerns of the Silky Terrier

The Silky Terrier dogs are believed to be the healthiest of dog breeds. There is really no major health issues connected with these dogs. There are only two minor health issues to worry about and they are Legg-Perthes and patellar luxation. With the proper care and attention a healthy Silky Terrier can live between 12 to 13 years, with some living up to 16 years.

The Alaska Sweepstakes was a very popular race that covered a distance of 400 miles from Nome to Candle. In 1909, the Siberian Huskies got the opportunity to enter this race. These dogs were not popular during this time but one racer, who was very impressed by them, imported 70 of these dogs to train for the 1910 race. Surprisingly, three teams of the huskies that he entered in the race ended up winning first, second and fourth place. As a result, the Siberian Husky Dogs immediately became the dominating winners for future races.

The Siberian Husky Dogs showed up in Canada in 1925. It was soon after that time that these dogs showed up in the United States of America. In 1930, The American Kennel Club recognized the Siberian Huskies as an official Breed.

In World War II, many of these dogs were used by the US Army to serve along with soldiers in the army’s search and rescue missions. Because of this, they became very popular with dog enthusiasts. In time, the Siberian Huskies became regular house pets and today they are the most popular of any Arctic Breed of Dogs.

Caring for the Siberian Husky Dogs

The Siberian Husky Dogs are alert, independent, clever and very adventurous. They love to run long distances and if not properly trained, they would roam all over the place when left alone. The Siberian Husky Dogs behave well around other house pets, but when they are outdoors, they may become somewhat aggressive with strange dogs.

Physically, the Siberian Husky Dogs need a lot of exercise every day. Long jogs would be good but they would do well if they are allowed to run about where it is safe for them to roam freely. An active person would definitely enjoy having a Siberian Husky Dog for a companion.

They do well in cold temperatures, so they make very good pets for anyone that lives in a cold area. As part of their physical exercise, they love to pull sleds and other objects.

They need to be brushed thoroughly one or two times a week. Even though they have short coats, during the time that they experience heavy shedding, they will require brushing every day.

Health Concerns for the Siberian Husky Dogs

In general, the Siberian Huskies are very healthy dogs that do not have any major health problems. Some minor health problems that could arise, but are rare, would include hypothyroidism, PRA (Progressive Retinal Atrophy), corneal dystrophy and cataracts. The Siberian Husky Breed, if well cared for, could live up to 13 years.

During the 1800s and the early part of the 1900s, many breed of dogs became official members of the American Kennel Club. It wasn’t until late in the 1960s that the Shih Tzu was officially recognized by the American Kennel Club. During that period the Shih Tzu Dogs became so popular as household pets, that the American Kennel Club could not help but notice their popularity and decided to register their breed.

The Shih Tzu Dogs are very energetic, very friendly and sweet. These dogs are very lovable lapdogs that have fun playing and running around with their owners. The Shih Tzu Dogs make very good house pets and are very good with children. The Shih Tzu Dogs are considered to be one of the friendliest dogs among other dogs, pets and even strangers.

Caring for the Shih Tzu Dogs

The Shih Tzu Dogs are small but they still need to get their exercise every day. Taking them for a brisk walk on a leash every day for 15 to 20 minutes is very good for them. Because of their small size, letting them run around the house every day is also a very good way for them to get their physical exercise.

The Shih Tzu Dogs are house pets that cannot withstand heat or humid weather, and like many toy breeds, they should not be allowed to live outdoors. You should groom these dogs every day because of their long, luxurious coat.

Health Concerns for the Shih Tzu Dogs

The only major health problem that is common among the Shih Tzu breed is CHD (Canine Hip Dysplasia). Some minor health problems include PRA (Progressive Retinal Atrophy), renal dysplasia, otitis externa, patellar luxation, KCS (Keratoconjunctivitis Sicca), entropion, portacaval shunt and inguinal hernia.

It is recommended by veterinarians that all Shih Tzu Dogs be checked for hip dysplasia, eye problems and DNA for renal dysplasia. It is rare for dental problems and cataracts to occur. If well taken care of, a healthy Shih Tzu Dog can live 14 or more years.

The Shiba Inu Dogs have a bold character, are independent and full of confidence. These dogs are active and love to adventure when outdoors but are calm and mild-mannered when inside the house. These types of dogs are among the best to have around the house. The Shiba Inu make very good watch dogs because they bark a lot especially when intruders are around.

The origin of the Shiba Inu Dogs

The Shiba Inu dogs, being one of six native Japanese breeds, are believed to be one of the most ancient of these dogs. They were nicknamed “Little Brushwood Dog” because of their red coat that blends in with the local brushwood trees. These dogs were used to hunt and flush out small animals.

It is not known exactly where the Shiba Inu Breed originated but it is known that they share a bloodline with the Spitz Dog. It is believed that the Shiba Inu dogs that were used as hunting companions throughout Japan, have roots that go as far back as 300 B.C. In addition to hunting small animals and flushing out birds, they were used to hunt wild boars.

At one time there were three types of these dogs. They were named after their local areas and were known as the Sanin Shiba, the Mino Shiba and the Shinshu Shiba. Regrettably, most of them were killed during World War II and in the early part of 1952 more of these dogs died because of distemper.

Several types of dogs were cross bred in order to keep the Shiba Inu Dogs from becoming extinct. Eventually, their breeding efforts became successful by using lighter boned dogs and crossing them with heavy boned dogs from the mountain areas. In 1954, the United States of America got their first Shiba Inu Dog and in 1993 these dogs were recognized by the American Kennel Club.

Caring for the Shiba Inu Dogs

The Shiba Inu Dogs require a lot of exercise every day to keep them happy. Even though this Breed of Dogs is small, they have a huge amount of energy which they need to burn. Taking them for long walks on the leash and letting them run around in the yard every day is very good for them. Most of all, they love to chase and hunt small prey.

Because the Shiba Inu Dogs can withstand warm temperatures and very cool weather, they can enjoy being outside a lot, but they should not be left outside altogether. If you have a fenced-in yard where your dog can roam about freely all day, make sure that your pet has a warm shelter. It is necessary to groom the Shiba Inu dogs once or twice a week by brushing their coat.

Health Concerns  for the Shiba Inu Dogs

The only major health problem that is common among the Shiba Inu Dog Breed is patellar luxation. Some minor health problems include allergies and cataracts. PRA (Progressive Retinal Atrophy), CHD (Canine Hip Dysplasia), PPM (Persistent Pupillary Membrane) and distichiasis are problems that are rare in these dogs.

It is recommended by veterinarians that the Shiba Inu Dogs get checked for eye, hip and knee problems. If well taken care of, a healthy Shiba Inu Dog can live from twelve to fifteen years.

The Sealyham Terriers love to play and to dig and chase. They make very good companions and are especially good to have around children. These dogs are not too friendly with other pets in the house and are a little cautious with strange people and other dogs around. This breed makes very good watch dogs that will bark continuously at night whenever anyone approaches.

The Origin of the Sealyham Terrier Dogs

The Sealyham Terriers originated in Wales in the 1800s. Some people believe that they may even go back to the 15^th century. Captain John Edwards, the man who worked to create this breed of dogs, lived in Sealyham, and is believed to be a direct descendant of the family who imported these small dogs into Wales.

The captain worked hard from 1850 to 1891, mixing different breeds to create the Sealyham Terrier.  The exact crosses that went into the creation of these dogs are not documented, but many people believe that it included traits of the Dandie Dinmont Terrier. It does not really matter what bloodlines went into the creation of these dogs, what resulted was the Sealyham Terrier. These dogs quickly became popular as a successful hunter of small animals, foxes and otters.

In 1903 these dogs began entering dog competitions and quickly became winners. The Sealyham Terrier dogs became officially recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1911. These dogs became very popular with dog lovers who were looking for smart looking dogs with hunting skills and dog show qualities. This breed of dogs remains very good competitors in dog shows all over the world.

Care and Attention for the Sealyham Terrier Dogs

The Sealyham Terrier dogs do not really require a great deal of exercise because they are only moderately active dogs. Short walks on the leash and romps around the living room floor would meet the adequate daily exercise requirements of these dogs. The Sealyham Terriers make very good house pets for people who live in small apartments.

Sealyham Terriers do well in both moderately hot and cool temperatures. When given the opportunity these dogs love to play and explore outdoors, but should not be left outside all the time. It is best if these dogs are allowed to live indoors. A good brushing of its wiry coat should be done two or three times a week. To keep its coat neat it is also recommended that they get a good shaping every three months.

Health Concerns for the Sealyham Terrier Dogs

There is really no major health problems connected to these dogs. Minor health problems may include lens luxation and retinal dysplasia. It is recommended by veterinarians that you get your Sealyham Terrier dog tested for any eye problem. Healthy Sealyham Terriers may live between eleven and thirteen years.

To begin with, all the terrier dogs that came from Scotland were referred to as “Scottish Terriers”. But the official Scottish Terrier of today was classified as a “Skye Terrier”. It doesn’t matter where the early Scottish Terriers originated, they were some of the most hard- working hunting dogs. These dogs would really pursue their prey regardless of the type of conditions and terrain.

To make matters worse with the naming of these dogs, some people referred to them as “Aberdeen Terriers”, because they were very popular with the people of that region. Some people protested the different names given to these dogs, until finally sometime in the year 1880 the dogs were specifically described and officially named the “Scottish Terrier”.

It was in the year 1883 that the Scottish Terriers first came to the United States. Their popularity was very slow at first, and then increased tremendously after World War II. The most popular Scottish Terrier that we know about is a dog named Fala that belonged to Franklin Roosevelt.

The Characteristics of the Scottish Terrier

Scottish Terrier dogs can be described as very rugged and tough. Because these dogs are very bold, they are sometimes called “Diehard”. These dogs are very active, smart and inquisitive. If provoked, the Scottish Terrier can be quite fearless and aggressive. It does not matter what the size of the other dog or animal may be. But when it comes to its family, these dogs are very protective and loyal.

Care and Attention for the Scottish Terrier

Scottish Terrier dogs need a lot of exercise. These dogs love adventure and excitement, so they need a lot of outdoor physical activities. Scottish Terrier dogs do well in both cold and warm temperatures. Although these dogs can live outdoors, like with all other family dogs, it is recommended that they be allowed to sleep inside with the family.

Their coats need a good thorough brushing at least two to four times a week. Further grooming may include clipping and stripping, especially for coat fashion and dog shows.

Health Concerns for the Scottish Terrier

The main health issues connected to the Scottish Terrier are CMO (Craniomandibular Osteopathy) and VWD (Von Willebrand’s Disease). Other minor problems may be patellar luxation, Scotty cramp and cerebellar abiotrophy. With good care and attention a healthy Scottish Terrier may live between eleven and fourteen years.

The Origin of the Scottish Deerhounds

The Scottish Deerhound Dogs originated in Scotland and were well respected as deer hunters in the early 16^th century. Researchers believe that these dogs came from an ancient breed and have roots that connect them to the Greyhounds.

Although the specific bloodline of the Scottish Deerhounds is still not confirmed, it is known that during this period these dogs were owned specifically by the nobility. At that time nobody below the rank of an Earl could own a Deerhound. These dogs were used for the hunting of stags, but after the decline of the stag population there was not much use for these dogs.

Between the 1700s and the1800s, the invention of guns and rifles, which became the main tools of deer hunters, caused the Scottish Deerhounds to become almost extinct. During the mid 1800s a distinctive effort was made to bring back the popularity of these dogs. The project was successful and during the 1860s the first Scottish Deerhound club was started in England. Today, although the number of the breed remains low, they are still classified as a classic breed.

Care and Attention for the Scottish Deerhound Dogs

The Scottish Deerhounds like all other hound dogs need a lot of exercise in order to remain fit and to cope with their high level of energy. These dogs need to take several long walks on the leash and it would also be very beneficial for them to be able to run around outside in a large area. Because the Deerhound loves to chase small animals, they should be trained to stop when commanded.

Scottish Deerhound dogs are moderately tolerant to both hot and cool temperatures. If necessary they are able to live outdoors, but it is best for your pet if it is allowed to sleep indoors with the family at night. Scottish Deerhound dogs need to be groomed at least twice a week and in order to keep their hair neat, they need to be trimmed occasionally.

Health Problems for the Scottish Deerhounds

There are a few health concerns connected with the Scottish Deerhounds. Major health problems include osteosarcoma, cardiomyopathy and gastric torsion. Minor health problems include allergies and cystinuria. Neck pain and hypothyroidism may occasionally occur. It is recommended by veterinarians that your Scottish Deerhounds be tested for potential cystinuria and cardiac problems. With proper care and attention the Scottish Deerhound may live up to between seven and nine years.