Beagle

The Hovawart dog History of the Scottish TerrierThe Hovawart is an old German working dog breed. Its name is derived from the Middle High German words for court and guard and already describes its original task as a guard and protection dog for house and yard. Modern pure breeding began in 1922 with dogs of a similar type from farms, later crossed with German Shepherds, Newfoundlanders and Leonbergers, among others. The FCI lists Germany as the country of origin of the breed. AppearanceBody shape: The Hovawart is a sturdy, medium-sized to large, slightly elongated dog with a harmonious and robust build. It appears alert, agile and self-assured, without looking clumsy. Coat: The coat is long, dense and lies close to the body for the most part. It is longer on the chest, belly, backs of the forelegs, thighs and tail, forming distinct feathering in these areas. The three recognised colour varieties are blond, black and black and tan. Nature/characterThe Hovawart is considered to be alert, self-confident, intelligent and closely attached to its family. It is not a nervous permanent barker, but has a pronounced protective and territorial behaviour. In everyday life, he is often loyal, sensitive and eager to learn, but needs people who give him security and clear guidance. Its close bond with its carers is also typical. GroomingThe coat is generally considered to be quite low-maintenance, although it is long. Regular brushing is important, especially when the coat changes and in areas that tend to become matted, such as the armpits or trousers. Ears, claws and teeth should also be checked. HealthThe Hovawart is generally considered a robust breed, but care should be taken to ensure responsible breeding with health checks. It is particularly important to check for hip dysplasia, and eye examinations also play a role in breeding. As with large, active dogs, a suitable weight, controlled growth and joint-friendly exercise at a young age are also important. EducationThe training of a Hovawart should start early and be consistent, calm and fair. He is smart and eager to work, but also tests boundaries and likes to act independently. Varied training, mental exercise and clear, reliable leadership are crucial. Harsh methods are unsuitable because many Hovawarts react sensitively and need a real partnership. What are the special features of this breed?The Hovawart has a mixture of alertness, independence, sensitivity and a high willingness to work. It is often late to mature and develops mentally more slowly than some other breeds, which requires patience in training. Added to this is his clear territorial behaviour. He wants to have tasks, be close to his humans and not just run along. It is precisely this combination of protective instinct, independence and close family ties that makes this breed so special. Suitable for first-time dog owners?Rather only conditionally. A committed, well-informed first-time dog owner can get on well with a Hovawart with plenty of support, dog training and consistency. Overall, however, the breed is rather demanding because it is powerful, independent, alert and often demanding at a young age. Without experience or clear leadership, a Hovawart can quickly take on too much responsibility itself. Family dog or not?Yes, in principle the Hovawart can be a very good family dog. He is loyal, people-orientated and usually feels most at home when he is closely involved in family life. At the same time, it is not an uncomplicated side dog. It is particularly suited to active families with space, time and the willingness to devote a lot of time to training and exercise.

Profile Chow-Chow / Chow ChowHistory of the Chow ChowAccording to the FCI standard, the Chow Chow originates from China, where it was used as a guard dog and also for hunting. It has been known there for over 2000 years and only arrived relatively late (around 1800) in other countries, including England.AppearanceBody shape: You get a compact, short coupled, well-balanced dog with a lion-like appearance and a proud and dignified stance. The tail carried high over the back and the typical gait are also characteristic. Coat: The coat is very dense and weatherproof, either as a rough-haired or smooth-haired variety. Around the neck, it is often particularly luxuriant in the rough-haired type and looks like a mane.Temperament and characterThe Chow Chow is described in the standard as a calm, very alert dog, headstrong, loyal and at the same time rather reserved. This means that he often bonds strongly, but is not necessarily the "jump on everyone and be happy" type.GroomingYou should brush the dense coat regularly so that undercoat and knots do not become a problem, especially when changing coats. In summer, good heat management is important because a lot of fur can be a burden in the heat.HealthFrequently mentioned issues are eye problems such as entropion (curled eyelid), hip dysplasia and hypothyroidism. When choosing a breeder, make sure that the examinations are transparent and discuss preventive care (eyes, hips, thyroid) with your vet at an early stage.TrainingThe best way to train your dog is with calm consistency, clear rules and respectful treatment. Because the Chow Chow is independent, it needs reliable everyday rituals early on, good socialization and training that builds cooperation rather than pressure.What special features does this breed haveThe lion-like appearance, the very dense undercoat and the bluish-black tongue are typical breed characteristics. In everyday life, he is often calm, but attentive and not "submissive", which makes leadership through clarity and trust particularly important.Suitable for first-time dog owners?Rather limited: If you familiarize yourself well, remain consistent and build up socialization and rules suitable for everyday life properly from the start, it can work. If you expect a dog that wants to please everyone by itself and always follows immediately, the breed is often less suitable.Family dog or not?This can be a good fit if the family is calmly structured and everyone respects the reserved character. In very turbulent households, management is important so that the dog has privacy, calm and clear boundaries.

Profile Basset HoundHistory of the Basset HoundThe standard describes that the Basset Hound was probably bred in the Middle Ages by monks in France for hunting in dense undergrowth. The breed was later developed further in Great Britain, where it was brought "to perfection", emphasizing its strengths as an enduring scent hound.AppearanceBody shape: A very low-set, long-built running dog with a strong bone structure and a pronounced ribcage, able to work persistently despite its short legs. Coat: Short, smooth coat that is close fitting and easy to groom but clearly shows the contours of the body.Temperament and characterBasset Hounds are considered friendly, gentle and very family-oriented, yet independent and often stubborn, especially when there is an exciting lead in their nose. This mixture makes them charming, but requires patience in everyday life.GroomingThe coat is uncomplicated, regular brushing is usually sufficient. Ear care is more important: the long, drooping ears should be kept clean and dry to prevent inflammation.HealthBack problems such as intervertebral disc disease (IVDD), which is more likely to occur with a long back and short legs, are typical. In addition, ear problems and obesity are common everyday issues for the breed, which is why weight control and appropriate exercise are important.TrainingWhen training your dog, calm consistency and positive reinforcement will get you the furthest. Recall can be a challenge due to their strong sense of smell, which is why a well-structured training program with clear rituals and meaningful nose work helps.What special features does this breed haveThe Basset Hound is a "nose dog" with great stamina who prefers to work thoroughly rather than quickly. Its physique is unmistakable and it is often pleasantly calm indoors, but quickly "in the tunnel" outdoors when a scent becomes interesting.Suitable for first-time dog owners?Rather limited: If you have patience for a sometimes stubborn, scent-driven nature and remain consistent, it can be a good fit. If you want a dog that works "on command" at all times, the breed is often not the easiest choice.Family dog or not?Yes, often a good family dog: Basset Hounds are usually friendly and social, but need clear rules and regular activity to prevent them from becoming overweight and to keep them manageable in everyday life.

The LeonbergerHistory of the Scottish TerrierThe Leonberger originates from Germany and was selectively bred in the 19th century in the town of Leonberg near Stuttgart. Heinrich Essig, who wanted to create a very large dog reminiscent of the town's heraldic animal, the lion, is considered the founder of the breed. Today, the Leonberger is known as a family, companion and guard dog and is firmly established internationally.AppearanceBody shape: The Leonberger is a very large, strong, muscular and yet elegant dog. Its build is harmonious, the rump slightly longer than the height at the withers, and males in particular appear powerful and strong. Despite his mass, he should never appear clumsy, but calm, confident and agile.Coat: The coat is long, dense and weatherproof. It lies close to the body or is slightly wavy and often forms a particularly pronounced mane in males. The good undercoat, the feathering on the front and hind legs and the bushy tail are also typical. The colour ranges from lion yellow to reddish-brown or sand-coloured, always with the black mask typical of the breed.Nature/characterThe Leonberger is considered to be self-confident, calm, friendly and family orientated. According to the FCI, it should be neither shy nor aggressive and is characterised by its confident composure, medium temperament, good learning ability and friendliness towards children. Many Leonbergers are alert and watchful without being nervous or unnecessarily sharp.GroomingCoat care should not be underestimated. The long, dense coat should be brushed thoroughly on a regular basis to prevent matting, especially behind the ears, on the legs and when shedding. In addition, ears, claws, teeth and paws should be checked regularly. Due to its size, the Leonberger also needs sufficient space, suitable lying areas and grooming suitable for everyday use right from the start.HealthThe Leonberger is generally regarded as a resilient but demanding breed due to its size. As with many very large dogs, attention should be paid to responsible breeding, controlled growth, a suitable body weight and exercise that is easy on the joints when the dog is young. Depending on the lineage, joint problems, heart issues and other health issues typical of large breeds can play a role. EducationTraining should be calm, clear and consistent. The Leonberger is usually eager to learn, obedient and people-oriented, but needs reliable leadership and early socialisation due to its size and strength. Harsh methods are unsuitable. Particularly important are good everyday rules, leash training and a confident, friendly demeanour in various situations.What are the special features of this breed?What is special about this breed is the combination of imposing size, calm nature and closeness to the family. The Leonberger often comes across as a gentle giant and at the same time is described as child-friendly, confident and suitable for everyday use. Added to this are its impressive lion-like appearance, the water-loving nature of many representatives and its strong presence, which should not be underestimated in everyday life, both physically and organisationally.Suitable for first-time dog owners?Conditional. The Leonberger's character is often friendly and good-natured, which makes him generally approachable. However, due to its enormous size, strength, the amount of care required and the responsibility involved in training and keeping it, it is not the easiest choice for beginners. However, a very well-informed and consistent first-time dog owner can get on well with this breed with the right support.Family dog or not?Yes, the Leonberger is basically a very good family dog. The FCI standard expressly describes it as a pleasant family dog with a pronounced child friendliness. It is particularly well suited to families with sufficient space, time and understanding for a very large, long-haired and people-orientated dog.

Profile Australian Cattle DogHistory of the Australian Cattle DogThe Australian Cattle Dog was developed in Australia specifically for hard work with cattle: What was needed was an enduring, strong dog that could also control and drive difficult cattle. The standard describes the development from crosses of working collies with the Dingo, later with other influences.AppearanceBody shape: It is a strong, compact, symmetrically built working dog. He appears very muscular, agile and enduring without being clumsy.Coat: The coat is short to medium length, dense and weatherproof, with a distinct undercoat.Temperament and characterThe standard describes him as very intelligent, alert, courageous and reliable. At the same time, he is naturally suspicious of strangers and has a strong protective instinct.GroomingThe coat is generally easy to care for, but should be brushed more frequently when changing coat to remove undercoat. Overall, it needs much more attention than "hair care".HealthTypical issues mentioned are hip dysplasia and eye problems such as progressive retinal atrophy (PRA) and a genetic tendency to deafness.EducationHe is very capable of learning, but he needs clear rules, early socialization and meaningful tasks. Without guidance, he may try to "do" moving things (this includes nipping at heels), which must be properly trained early on, especially with children.What special features does this breed haveHe is a real working dog in family format: extremely persistent, clever, often very closely bonded to his caregiver and happiest when he is challenged physically and mentally on a daily basis.Suitable for first-time dog owners?Only to a limited extent. If you are really sporty, take training seriously and offer consistent activity, it can work. It is usually too demanding for "relaxed beginners" who are looking for an uncomplicated companion.Family dog or not?It can be a good family dog, but often more for active families with clear rules. Many descriptions emphasize that he can "herd" children and other animals if not trained early, and that he can be reserved towards strangers.

The Greater Swiss Mountain Dog Its history The Greater Swiss Mountain Dog originates from Switzerland and is one of the old farm and working dogs of the Alpine region. It was formerly used as a guard dog, draught dog and herding dog. For a long time, the breed was considered to have almost disappeared until it was specifically promoted again at the beginning of the 20th century. Today, it is mainly kept as a family, guard and companion dog. Appearance Body shape: Strong, large, muscular and harmoniously built. The body is slightly longer than high, with a broad chest, strong back and powerful limbs. Despite its mass, it does not appear clumsy, but expressive and resilient. Coat: The coat is dense, weatherproof and easy to care for. Typical is the tricolored pattern with black base color, rust-red markings on the cheeks, above the eyes, on the chest and legs as well as white markings on the head, chest, paws and tip of the tail. Temperament/character The Greater Swiss Mountain Dog is considered to be self-confident, calm, attentive and people-oriented. He is very loyal to his family and usually shows a balanced, friendly nature. He is often alert and reserved towards strangers, without unnecessary aggression. He has a mind of his own, but is reliable and loyal when well bonded. Grooming Grooming is generally uncomplicated. Regular brushing is usually sufficient, but more frequent brushing is recommended during the shedding season. Ears, claws and teeth should be checked and groomed. Because of its size, care should also be taken to ensure that it has a suitable weight and is exercised in a way that is easy on the joints. Health Like many large dog breeds, the Greater Swiss Mountain Dog can also be prone to joint problems such as hip dysplasia and elbow dysplasia. Gastric torsion is also an important issue, which is why feeding and exercise should be well coordinated. Reputable breeding, controlled growth at a young age and a healthy body weight are particularly important. Training Training should be calm, clear and consistent. Harsh methods are unsuitable, as the breed can react sensitively to unfair treatment. The Greater Swiss Mountain Dog learns well, but needs a close bond, patience and confident leadership. Early socialization is important so that it reacts calmly and confidently to environmental stimuli. What are the special features of this breed? This breed has a lot of strength, size and alertness. A Greater Swiss Mountain Dog is not a dog to be kept on the side. It needs plenty of space, a close family bond and people who can lead it reliably. Its mixture of calmness and protective instinct is also typical. Many representatives of the breed mature rather late and appear youthful for a long time. Due to their size, they can be very physically present in everyday life, which should not be underestimated. Suitable for first-time dog owners? Conditionally. For motivated and well-informed first-time dog owners, the breed may be possible, but it is not the easiest choice. Their size, strength, independence and protectiveness require good, consistent training and a great sense of responsibility. If you have little dog experience, you should prepare yourself intensively and ideally work with a dog school or trainer. Family dog or not? Yes, the Greater Swiss Mountain Dog is generally a good family dog. He is affectionate, loyal and usually very close to his caregivers. They can be friendly and patient with children. Because of its size and strength, however, it should always be handled under supervision. It is particularly suitable for families who have enough space, time and understanding for a large, hard-working and alert dog.

The PekingeseHistory of the PekingeseThe Pekingese originates from China and is one of the ancient Asian social dogs. Long before our era, there were depictions of small dogs that resembled today's Pekingese. In China, the breed was closely associated with the imperial court and later became known in Europe. Great Britain had a strong influence on its further development and is listed as a patron country by the FCIAppearanceBody shape: The Pekingese is small, compact and surprisingly heavy for its size. Typical features are the broad, rather flat head, the short muzzle, the large dark eyes and the overall lion-like expression. Despite its small size, it should appear dignified, robust and not dainty. Coat: The coat is moderately long, straight and very abundant without completely covering the body. The mane around the neck and shoulders and the feathering on the ears, legs, tail and toes are particularly striking. The variety of permissible colors makes the breed visually quite versatile. Nature/characterThe Pekingese is considered courageous, self-confident, dignified and often quite independent. It is usually closely attached to its caregivers, but is often more reserved than impetuous towards strangers. Its large presence in a small space is typical. He often appears more serious and independent than many other small companion dogs. This character assessment is a professional derivation from the breed type, standard and breed description.GroomingGrooming is time-consuming and requires regularity. The long coat should be brushed and combed thoroughly to prevent matting. Eyes, skin folds, ears, claws and teeth should also be checked regularly. Careful grooming is particularly important in the facial area. This practical grooming assessment is a professional deduction from the coat type and build. HealthHealth is particularly important for the Pekingese. The short head shape can be associated with breathing problems, sensitivity to heat and other stresses relevant to everyday life. The eyes, skin folds and spine also deserve attention. This is why very responsible breeding with a view to functionality and resilience is particularly important. TrainingThe Pekingese needs friendly, clear and consistent leadership. He is intelligent, but often also headstrong and not simply pleasing. Therefore, despite its small size, it should be taken seriously and given reliable rules. With early socialization and calm consistency, it usually develops into a pleasant companion dog. What are the special features of this breed?What is special about this breed is the combination of its lion-like appearance, old imperial court history and very self-confident demeanor. The Pekinese is not a typical submissive small dog, but often a dignified, courageous and independent companion. It is this mixture of small size and big personality that makes them special. Suitable for first-time dog owners?Conditionally. A calm and well-informed first-time dog owner can get on well with a Pekingese. However, the breed is not completely uncomplicated because it is independent, requires a lot of care and can be more demanding in terms of health than many other small dogs.Family dog or not?Conditionally yes. The Pekingese can be a good family dog if you respect its independence and treat it with consideration. They are often particularly well suited to quiet households. It usually feels less at home in very turbulent families or with boisterous behavior.

The Golden RetrieverHistory of the Scottish TerrierThe Golden Retriever was bred in Great Britain as a reliable retriever (especially for hunting with a shotgun, also from the water) - hence its love of water, its "soft mouth" and its close co-operation with humans.AppearanceBody shape: medium to large, strong and harmoniously built; symmetrical, ‘robust’ with a friendly expression. Coat: medium length, with feathering (especially on legs, tail and chest) and a dense undercoat – making it weather-resistant, but also requiring more grooming.Nature/characterTypical characteristics are: friendly, trusting, intelligent, docile and with a natural willingness to work ("will to please"). Many Golden Retrievers need a lot of activity (head + body) - otherwise they look for "jobs" for themselves (e.g. stealing, carrying, digging).GroomingCoat care: regular brushing (much more frequently when changing coat), as undercoat and feathering tend to become matted. Ears & paws: Check ears (drooping ears + bathing = risk of inflammation), check paws/"feathers" after walks in the forest.HealthWith Golden Retrievers, particular attention should be paid to serious breeding (health examinations, transparency, suitable matings). Frequently discussed issues in the breed include hips/elbows, eyes, ears and a certain tendency to be overweight (especially with too many snacks + too little exercise). (General note; specific risks depend heavily on line/breeding/keeping).EducationUsually easy to train because they are co-operative and people-oriented. Important: early impulse control, "don't eat anything from the floor", calm behaviour when left alone, leash training. Positive, clear rules + meaningful tasks are ideal: Retrieving, dummy work, mantrailing, obedience, rescue dog work - suits the breed very well.What are the special features of this breed?Retriever gene: Many like to carry things around, love search and retrieve tasks. People-orientated: Closeness and co-operation are often more important than "being alone in the garden". Water-loving + fur: Many like to bathe - drying their fur/checking their ears is part of this. "Friendly to everything": Can be great, but is rather unsuitable depending on the goal (guard dog).Suitable for first-time dog owners?Often yes - but only if you have the time and desire for training and exercise. Although a Golden is usually co-operative, it is not a sure-fire winner: young dogs can be wild, boisterous and very "food-motivated". If you consistently train them in a friendly manner and keep them busy every day, you will usually get a very pleasant companion.Family dog or not?Very often an excellent family dog because it is generally friendly, patient and social. Important for families: Children & dog must be supervised (resting areas, rules, no constant behaviour of the dog). A Golden that is kept busy is usually relaxed - one that is underchallenged can become annoying.

St. Bernard shorthair or longhair profileHistory of the St. BernardThe St. Bernard goes back to the dogs at the hospice on the Great St. Bernard (Alpine Pass). The standard describes that large dogs were kept there from the 17th century onwards, which served as court and guard dogs, among other things, and later became famous for their use in the Alpine region.AppearanceBody shape: You get a very large, powerful and harmoniously built dog with plenty of substance and a deep chest. The type should appear agile and resilient despite its mass. Coat: Depending on the variety, the coat is stocky or long-haired, always dense and protective. Regular brushing helps to remove undercoat and dirt.Nature and characterThe standard describes the St. Bernard as a friendly, calm and alert companion, guard and farmyard dog. Many dogs are people-oriented and calm, but need clear rules to keep their size and strength under control in everyday life.GroomingYou should brush the coat regularly, and much more frequently when the coat is changing. Ears, claws and teeth should also be groomed. Practical in everyday life: St. Bernards often drool, so cloths and short routines after eating are useful.HealthAs a giant, joint and bone stress are among the most important issues, as is the risk of stomach torsion in large, deep-chested dogs. Controlled growth as a young dog, a lean weight and good food and rest management around mealtimes are sensible. Education They do best with calm consistency and early socialization. Leash manners, stop signals and calmness suitable for everyday use are particularly important because an adult St. Bernard is physically enormously strong.What special features does this breed haveThe St. Bernard is a "gentle giant" with an imposing appearance, a lot of physical strength and often great composure. It is particularly well suited to people who like a calm, massive companion and have the space, time and management skills for a very large dog.Suitable for first-time dog owners?Rather limited: If you train in a structured way, remain consistent and use help from a dog school or trainer early on, it can work. Without clear guidance, size and strength quickly become an everyday problem.Family dog or not?Often yes, if you are looking for a calm, child-friendly type and guide interactions with children (size, tossing, boundaries). It is important to have enough space, a regulated daily routine and preventive health care.

The MalteseHistory of the Scottish TerrierThe Maltese is a very old small breed of companion dog from the central Mediterranean region. According to the FCI, its name does not necessarily mean that it originates from the island of Malta. Historically, its ancestors were kept in harbour towns and coastal regions of the Mediterranean, where they also fought mice and rats in camps and on ships. Later, the Maltese was valued above all as an elegant companion dog. AppearanceBody shape: The Maltese is a small, elegant dog with a slightly elongated body. Despite its delicate appearance, it appears lively, well-proportioned and proud in its bearing. Its expression is alert and friendly.Coat: The coat is the breed’s most striking feature. It is very long, smooth, flowing and silky. A pure white coat is typical, giving the Maltese its elegant appearance.Nature/characterThe Maltese is considered to be affectionate, friendly, lively and very people-orientated. It is usually attentive, playful and closely orientated towards its caregivers. Despite its small size, it often has a surprisingly self-confident demeanour and wants to be taken seriously. GroomingGrooming is time-consuming and requires regularity. The long coat should be brushed and combed frequently to prevent matting. Eyes, ears, paws, claws and teeth should also be checked regularly. Good dental care is particularly important for small long-haired dogs. HealthThe Maltese is generally regarded as a rather robust and often long-lived small breed. Nevertheless, care should be taken to ensure responsible breeding. As with other small dogs, dental problems, patella problems, eye problems or skin issues can play a role, depending on the line. Regular veterinary checks, good weight management and a reputable breeding base are important. EducationTraining is often successful because the Maltese is smart, attentive and people-orientated. It needs friendly, clear and consistent leadership. Despite its small size, it should not be coddled, because even a small dog needs rules and guidance. With early socialisation and loving consistency, the Maltese usually develops into a pleasant everyday companion. What are the special features of this breed?What is special about this breed is the combination of its noble appearance, very close relationship with people and small size. The Maltese is no mere lap dog, but often an attentive, cheerful and present companion. In addition, its long, white coat makes it instantly recognisable, but also requires a lot of grooming.Suitable for first-time dog owners?Yes, the Maltese is often well suited to first-time dog owners. They are usually friendly, eager to learn and closely attached to their humans. However, you should not underestimate the amount of care required, the necessary consistency in training and the sensitivity of a small dog. Family dog or not?Yes, the Maltese can be a good family dog. He is affectionate, friendly and likes to live close to his humans. It is particularly well suited to families or households that treat a small dog with respect and have time to care for and bond with it. Care should be taken with very small children due to its small size.

The Jack Russell Terrier History The Jack Russell Terrier goes back to the breeding work of the English reverend John Russell in the early 19th century. The aim was to create a small, hard-working terrier that could keep up with foxhounds and go to the den. These lines later developed into two similar but differently built types: the larger Parson Russell Terrier and the smaller, longer Jack Russell Terrier. The FCI lists Great Britain as the country of origin and Australia as the developing country of the breed. Appearance Body shape: The Jack Russell Terrier is a strong, active and rectangularly built working terrier. It should be agile, persistent and compact without appearing clumsy. Its good substance, lively charisma and functional build for working above and below ground are typical. Coat: The coat is weatherproof and can be smooth, rough or spiky. Typical is the predominantly white base colour with black or tan markings. The coat is functional and should protect the dog well at work. Nature/Character The Jack Russell Terrier is considered to be clever, smart, lively and very self-confident. He is alert, courageous and often surprisingly fearless for his size. At the same time, he is described as friendly and calm. His temperament, his eagerness to work and his typical terrier independence are typical. Grooming The grooming requirements are usually manageable. Smooth-haired dogs are particularly easy to care for, while rough-haired and spiky-haired varieties require a little more attention and often regular trimming. Ears, claws, teeth and paws should also be checked. Health The Jack Russell Terrier is generally regarded as a robust and hardy breed. Nevertheless, as with any breed, attention should be paid to responsible breeding, a healthy body weight and regular veterinary checks. Depending on the line, joint, eye or skin problems can occur. Training Training should be clear, fair and consistent. The Jack Russell Terrier is very intelligent and learns quickly, but also tests boundaries and has a strong mind of its own. Early socialisation, impulse control and appropriate exercise are particularly important. Harsh methods are unsuitable because they often create counter-pressure. What are the special features of this breed? What makes this breed special is its enormous energy in a small space. The Jack Russell Terrier is not a cosy small dog, but a real working terrier with a lot of temperament, courage and passion for hunting. He is often very resourceful, fast, persistent and mentally alert. It is this mixture of size, self-confidence and activity that makes him so distinctive. Suitable for first-time dog owners? Conditional. A committed and well-informed first-time dog owner can get on well with a Jack Russell Terrier if they have enough time, consistency and enjoy being active. However, the breed is not easy because it is temperamental, independent and quickly underchallenged. Family dog or not? Yes, the Jack Russell Terrier can basically be a good family dog. They are friendly, lively and often bond closely with their humans. However, they are best suited to active families who set clear rules and keep them physically and mentally busy. Without sufficient activity, he can quickly become exhausting in everyday life.

The Appenzell Mountain DogHistory of the Appenzell Mountain DogOriginally a Swiss farm, herding and herding dog (also a guard dog) from the Appenzell region; bred primarily for utility.AppearanceBody shape: medium-sized, strong and well-proportioned, very agile; tail set high and curled over the back (typical).Coat: short, dense double coat; striking, clearly defined tricolor markings.Temperament/characterLively, spirited, self-confident and fearless; watchful and often rather suspicious of strangers (with pleasure in reporting/barking possible).GroomingRather moderate: regular brushing (at least weekly, more often when changing coat) is usually sufficient because the coat is short and dense.HealthThe breed standard focuses on function and robustness; however, as with many medium-sized, active breeds, orthopaedic issues can occur (e.g. hip/elbow) and eye problems are sometimes mentioned. Health checks during breeding (HD/ED, eyes if necessary) and appropriate growing up (not too fast/too heavy) make sense.EducationIntelligent and eager to work, but not a "sofa dog": training works best with clear rules, meaningful activity and early socialization, so that alertness does not turn into constant alertness.What special features does this breed have?Working mode: needs daily exercise + mental work (e.g. nose work, trick training, agility, driving ball). Alert and signaling behavior: can be a plus, but must be controlled (calm signal, visitor training). Not ideal for "just a walk": happiest with active people with a task/structure.Suitable for first-time dog owners?Conditionally. If you are sporty, have a desire for training/structure and really keep him busy, it can work well. If you are looking for an "uncomplicated companion", it will often fail due to energy, alertness and demands.Family dog or not?Yes - in active families. The VDH describes him as a great family dog if you spend a lot of time with him; at the same time, he is alert and rather reserved towards strangers. It usually works well with children if rules and respectful behavior are in place (and there is enough exercise).