Irish Terrier

The Berger de Brie - BriardThe historyThe Berger de Brie is a French herding and guard dog. The standard mentions that it was also used by the French army in both world wars, among other things as a guard dog and to find wounded soldiers.AppearanceBody shape: You will get a rustic, supple, muscular dog with good proportions. The body length should slightly exceed the height at the withers so that he can work with endurance and agility. Coat: The long coat is a trademark: It has a "goat-like" appearance and falls rather dry and smooth, not woolly. Typical are the beard, whiskers and the abundant hair on the head.Nature and characterAccording to the standard, the Briard should be a dog with an even temperament, neither aggressive nor fearful, yet confident and fearless. In everyday life, it often shows a close bond with its owner and a noticeable alertness.GroomingYou should regularly brush and comb the long coat thoroughly to prevent it from matting, especially on the ears, armpits, belly, "pants" and tail. It is also worth checking the ears and paw hair, as dirt and knots can easily collect there.HealthAs a large breed, issues such as hip problems and stomach issues (including gastric torsion) can play a role, so weight management, appropriate exercise and sensible feeding routines are important. Reputable breeders also work with sensible examinations, for example for hips and eyes.TrainingThey do best with clear rules, early socialization and reward-based training. The Briard is intelligent and willing to work, but can act very independently if leadership and tasks are lacking.What special features does this breed haveThe Briard combines herding dog intelligence with a protective and guarding nature. He wants to work closely with you, but needs sufficient exercise, mental work and a calm, reliable structure in everyday life.Suitable for first-time dog owners?Only to a limited extent: If you are active, train consistently and reliably schedule grooming, it can work out. The breed is often better suited to people with dog experience, because alertness, size and leadership requirements come together.Family dog or not?It can work well as a family dog if you provide time, structure and clear rules and children treat the dog with respect. In very turbulent households or without sufficient activity, it will be rather difficult because the dog will then quickly take over tasks itself.

Profile Bernese Mountain DogHistory of the Bernese Mountain DogThe Bernese Mountain Dog is a farm dog of ancient origin from the area around Bern. It was originally used as a guard dog, herding dog and draught dog on farms and is now primarily a family dog and versatile working dog.AppearanceBody shape: You get a strong, agile and harmoniously built dog with plenty of substance. The Bernese does not appear clumsy, but rather capable of working and persevering. Coat: The coat is long and weatherproof, often with a dense undercoat. Due to the typical tricolor, the markings are very striking.Nature and characterYou will usually meet a calm, friendly and people-oriented dog that can be very affectionate within the family. At the same time, he is alert and often reacts attentively to unfamiliar situations.GroomingYou should brush the long coat regularly, especially behind the ears, on the chest, on the "pants" and on the tail, so that it does not become matted. More frequent brushing is worthwhile during shedding periods, as a lot of undercoat is then shed.HealthAs a large breed, you should take issues such as hip problems and the risk of stomach torsion seriously and talk to your vet about sensible preventative care. Consistent weight management is also important so that joints and circulation are relieved.TrainingCalm, clear and consistent training is the best way forward. The Bernese is eager to work, but does not need constant high performance, but rather reliable rules, good socialization and tasks suitable for everyday life.What special features does this breed haveThe Bernese Mountain Dog combines strength and composure with a strong bond to its humans. Typical are also his earlier pulling work and his talent as a versatile companion, for example in therapy or social dog work, if character and training fit, this dog is suitable for many things.Suitable for first-time dog owners?Yes, often, if you are prepared to deal with consistent training, size and strength of the dog as well as breed-typical care, this dog can be trained to be a wonderful companion. A good dog school is almost always a good idea, so that leash manners and calmness are properly established from the start.Family dog or not?In many cases, yes: if you are looking for a friendly, rather calm dog and have enough time for grooming, training and appropriate exercise, the breed often fits well into families. However, you should still teach children to treat the large dog with respect and accompany them during the first few encounters.

The Staffordshire Bull TerrierHistory of the Scottish TerrierThe Staffordshire bull terrier originated in Great Britain. Its roots lie in old Bull and Terrier types, from which a compact, strong and at the same time agile dog was later developed. Today, the breed is used as a companion and family dog, even though its earlier origins are closely linked to the history of English bulls and terriers.AppearanceBody shape: The Staffordshire Bull Terrier is a smooth-haired, very powerful dog for its size. It appears muscular, active, agile and well balanced. Typical features are the broad skull, the distinct muzzle, the pronounced cheek muscles and the compact overall impression.Coat: The coat is short, smooth and lies close to the body. It is easy to care for and emphasises the breed's athletic, compact build.Nature/characterThe Staffordshire Bull Terrier is considered courageous, very intelligent and affectionate. The official standard emphasises their affection for people and especially for children. Well-bred and well-socialised dogs often appear friendly, lively and reliable, but need responsible leadership.GroomingGrooming is generally uncomplicated. The short coat usually only needs to be brushed regularly to remove loose hair and keep the skin clean. Because the coat offers little protection against severe cold, some dogs are more sensitive to wet or cold weather.HealthThe Staffordshire Bull Terrier is generally regarded as a robust breed, but there are some risks typical of the breed. Hereditary cataracts and L 2 HGA, for which official DNA tests are recommended, are particularly well known. As with many compact, muscular breeds, general preventative care, weight control and careful breeding selection are also important.EducationTraining should start early, clearly and consistently. The Staffordshire Bull Terrier usually learns well and works closely with its people, but can also be powerful and temperamental. Good socialisation, friendly consistency and a safe everyday life with clear rules are particularly important.What are the special features of this breed?What is special about this breed is the combination of great physical strength, high human-orientation and often amazing affection in everyday family life. The Staffordshire Bull Terrier appears compact and athletic, but is often very cuddly and close to its carers. However, its strong charisma always requires responsible behaviour, good training and fair leadership.Suitable for first-time dog owners?Only to a limited extent. A dedicated first-time dog owner can get on well with a Staffordshire Bull Terrier if they put a lot of effort into training, socialisation and typical breed behaviour. However, because of its strength, temperament and the need for clear leadership, the breed is usually easier in experienced hands. Family dog or not?Yes, in principle the Staffordshire Bull Terrier can be a very good family dog. The breed standard even explicitly mentions its special affection for children. However, the decisive factors are always a reputable origin, good socialisation, suitable exercise and responsible handling in everyday life.

The German Wirehaired PointerHistory of the German ShorthairThe German Shorthaired Pointer developed from pointing dogs that were initially used for hunting with nets and falconry. Such dogs came to German courts via various countries; with the advent of modern hunting weapons, the "pure pointing dog" increasingly became a versatile hunting dog. There has been a stud book since 1897; the breed is still strongly selected today through breeding and testing.AppearanceBody shape: The German Shorthaired Pointer has a noble, harmonious and athletic build. Its construction is designed for strength, endurance and speed; the body is slightly rectangular (rump slightly longer than the height at the withers).Coat: Short, dense and functional, generally low-maintenance - but as a shorthair breed, it can still shed noticeably.Temperament and characterHe is considered firm, balanced, reliable and controlled in temperament - neither nervous nor shy or aggressive. At the same time, he is eager to work and needs typical hunting tasks to be satisfied.GroomingThe short coat needs above all regular brushing/wiping, plus ears, claws and teeth as usual. The decisive factor is not so much "cosmetics" as exercise: the German Shorthaired Pointer is an efficient working dog and wants to work physically and mentally.HealthThe German Shorthaired Pointer is generally considered to be robust, but - like many active, larger dogs - can be prone to certain problems, particularly hip and elbow dysplasia. In addition, gastric torsion (GDV) in deep-chested breeds and other hereditary issues such as PRA (eyes) or subaortic stenosis (heart) are described as relevant issues.EducationTraining works best with clear rules, structure and positive motivation. The German Shorthair learns quickly, but needs consistent leadership and real tasks (nose work, retrieving, field/water work, dummy work). Without training and activity, he will otherwise look for "his own jobs".What are the special characteristics of this breed?A lot of energy and willingness to work: more of a hunting and sporting partner than a pure companion dog. Versatile hunting dog: performance tests (also widespread in Switzerland) play a major role. Strong nose and prey drive: recall and impulse control must be established early on.Suitable for first-time dog owners?Conditionally. If you are sporty, enjoy training and stick with it consistently, it can work. If you are looking for a "low-maintenance side dog", the German Shorthaired Pointer is usually too demanding (exercise, training, hunting instinct).Family dog or not?Yes, but only if the family is active. In a structured, active household, he can be very friendly and affectionate. Without enough activity, he quickly becomes unbalanced.

The Toy PoodleHistory of the Scottish TerrierThe poodle officially originates from France. The breed is very old and was used for a long time not only as a companion dog but also as a working dog. The Toy Poodle is the smallest of the four FCI-recognised size variants of the Poodle.AppearanceBody shape: elegant, harmonious, almost square, finely built but not fragile. Despite its small size, the Toy Poodle should have the same proportions as the larger Poodle varieties; according to the standard, signs of dwarfism are undesirable.Coat: luxuriant, curly, hardly hairy, but requires a lot of grooming. It grows back continuously and tangles easily without regular brushing and clipping.Nature/character Toy poodles are very intelligent, eager to learn, affectionate, attentive and playful. They bond closely with their humans, like to be around them and are often sensitive to mood and tone. Without good familiarisation, some can be a little barky, nervous or reluctant to be left alone.GroomingGrooming is the biggest effort: brushing several times a week, often even daily, plus regular clipping or trimming, often about every 6-8 weeks. Ear, eye and dental care are also important. Health Well-bred Toy Poodles can live to be quite old; 15-17 years is often mentioned. Due to their very small size, however, you should pay particular attention to serious breeding. Depending on the line, problems such as teething/tooth disease, patella problems or general sensitivities can play a role in very small dogs.EducationTraining is usually pleasant because Toy Poodles learn very quickly and want to please their humans. Nevertheless, clear rules, early socialisation and friendly, consistent handling are important. Because of their intelligence, they not only need walks, but also mental work.What are the special features of this breed?The Toy Poodle combines high intelligence with a small size. It sheds very little, which is why it is often considered more suitable for some allergy sufferers, but at the same time requires very consistent grooming. What's more, it is not just a lap dog, but a clever, active little dog that wants to be kept busy and wants a close family bond. Suitable for first-time dog owners?Yes, basically very good - provided you are prepared to groom them and keep them busy with training and exercise. Toy poodles are often considered good beginner dogs precisely because of their eagerness to learn and their people-orientation.Family dog or not?Yes, generally a very good family dog. Toy poodles are friendly, playful and people-oriented and often get along well with children and other pets if well socialised. However, due to their small size, small children should learn to handle them with care.

Cocker Spaniel profileHistory of the Cocker SpanielThe English Cocker Spaniel was bred to be a hunting dog and was traditionally used for hunting, including woodcock, from which the name "Cocker" is derived.AppearanceBody shape: You get a compact, athletic dog with a strong build designed for endurance and agility. Coat: The coat is of medium length, silky and with typical feathering. To keep it beautiful, it needs regular grooming, especially on the ears, chest and "pants".Nature and characterMany Cockers are cheerful, people-oriented, intelligent and eager to work. At the same time, they are often sensitive and, depending on their line and occupation, can quickly "turn on" if there is a lack of rest and structure.GroomingThey should be brushed regularly and knots untied early, especially on the ears and feathering. Ear care is also important because the long ears can promote ear infections.HealthTypical issues are ear problems as well as various hereditary diseases, which is why health examinations and proofs are very useful in breeding.EducationThey usually do very well with positive reinforcement, clear rules and consistent recall training. As many Cockers like to work with their nose, search games, retrieving and dummy training help to keep your dog balanced in everyday life.What special features does this breed haveThe Cocker is a search dog that loves to work: active and motivated outdoors, often pleasantly cuddly indoors when well exercised. The long, heavily feathered ears and the need for regular grooming and ear care are typical.Suitable for first-time dog owners?Often yes, if you are prepared to train consistently, groom regularly and keep the dog busy and mentally and physically active. If you are looking for a dog that "just works" without training and exercise, it may be more difficult.Family dog or not?In many cases, yes: many cockers are friendly, playful and fit well into active families, as long as exercise, activity and rest periods are right

Profile Australian Shepherd / Berger AustralianHistory of the Australian ShepherdAlthough the name "Australian Shepherd" suggests otherwise, the breed as we know it today developed in the USA. The FCI standard explains the naming with reference to Basque shepherds who came to the United States via Australia and brought dogs of this type with them.AppearanceBody shape: The Australian Shepherd is a medium-sized, well-muscled, agile working dog. He appears balanced, athletic and is slightly longer rather than tall. His build is designed for endurance, agility and quick changes of direction.Coat: The coat is of medium length and provides reliable protection from the weather. It is straight to slightly wavy, with an undercoat that is thicker or thinner depending on the season and climate. Particularly typical are the merle varieties, which give the Aussie its striking appearance.Nature and characterThe Australian Shepherd is very intelligent, attentive and eager to work. They often bond closely with their owner and want to complete tasks instead of just "running along". Many Aussies are sensitive and react strongly to mood, routines and body language. At the same time, they can be vigilant and, depending on their lineage, tend towards protective or controlling behavior if they are not taught clear rules and calmness.GroomingGrooming is usually moderate but regular: Brushing about once or twice a week helps to remove loose undercoat and prevent matting (especially behind the ears, on the pants and collar). Brushing should be more frequent during shedding periods. Bathing is only necessary when needed, checking ears, claws and teeth is more important.HealthFrequently mentioned issues are hip and elbow dysplasia as well as hereditary eye problems (e.g. cataracts). Serious breeding therefore works with appropriate examinations and eye screenings. The MDR1 gene mutation (multidrug resistance) is also important: Affected dogs are less able to tolerate certain medications. A DNA test helps to identify risks and inform vets.TrainingThe Australian Shepherd learns quickly and willingly, but also quickly learns wrong patterns if rules are unclear. Reward-based training with clear structures, meaningful activities and a consistent daily routine works best. Impulse control, frustration tolerance and a well-developed recall are very important. Calm training is just as important to ensure that the dog does not remain in work mode and look for "jobs" for itself (e.g. herding children, bicycles or joggers).What special features does this breed haveThe Aussie is a working dog that wants to be kept physically and mentally busy. Many Australian Shepherds love dog sports, trick training, nose work and everyday tasks. They can be very cooperative, but sometimes seem "too clever" if they lack structure. If exercise and rest are not suitable, some dogs develop nervousness, controlling behavior or unwanted herding.Suitable for first-time dog owners?Basically yes, but only if you are really active, take training seriously and are prepared to work intensively on training, exercise and rest. The Aussie is often too demanding for people who are looking for an uncomplicated "just go with the flow" dog.Family dog or not?It can be a very good family dog, especially in active households with clear rules and enough time. It is important that children respect the dog and that herding behavior is taught early on. In very chaotic families without structure or without sufficient activity, it can become more difficult because the dog then often starts to control moving things or to be constantly "on his toes".

Miniature Spitz - PomeranianHistoryThe Miniature Spitz belongs to the German Spitz, a very old Central European dog family. According to the FCI, the German Spitz descends from the stone-age Torfhund and later Pfahlbauspitz; in non-German-speaking countries, the Miniature Spitz is also called Pomeranian.AppearanceThe Miniature Spitz is a very small, compact Spitz with a fox-like head, small erect ears, dense neck ruff and a bushy tail carried over the back. The luxuriant coat often makes it appear larger than it actually is. Body shape: Compact, harmonious, rather square, with an upright and alert expression. Coat: Very abundant, stand-off and weatherproof, with dense undercoat; particularly striking are the mane, breeches and bushy tail.Nature/CharacterThe Miniature Spitz is considered to be alert, lively, affectionate and self-confident. As a typical Spitz, it is watchful and often reliably announces what is happening around it. At the same time, it is closely attached to its humans and usually very sociable.GroomingThe coat needs regular, thorough brushing so that the undercoat and topcoat do not become matted. Particular attention should be paid behind the ears, at the neck ruff, at the breeches and at the tail. Grooming becomes much more demanding during coat changes.HealthThe FCI standard requires functionally and clinically healthy breeding animals. The VDH describes the Miniature Spitz as a rather robust and long-lived breed, but also points out health issues such as patellar luxation, which responsible breeders should keep in mind.TrainingThe Miniature Spitz is intelligent and capable of learning, but needs clear, friendly consistency. Because it can be alert and sometimes inclined to bark, early socialisation, calm everyday training and good rules are particularly important. Harsh training usually does not suit this sensitive yet self-confident little breed. This assessment is a practical derivation from standard and VDH description.What special characteristics does this breed have?Special features include the luxuriant lion-like coat, the very small size paired with surprisingly great self-confidence and pronounced alertness. Many Miniature Spitz look cute, but are not passive lap dogs, but attentive, often rather present little companion dogs.Suitable for first-time dog owners?Yes, often very suitable. For beginners, the Miniature Spitz can be a good match if they train with consistency, friendliness and everyday practicality and do not permit excessive watchdog behaviour. Thanks to its size it is handy, but it should not be underestimated or trivialised. This assessment is a practical derivation from FCI standard and VDH description.Family dog or not?Yes, basically yes. As an affectionate and lively companion dog, the Miniature Spitz can fit in well with families, especially if treated with respect and not as a toy dog. With very young children, as with any small breed, special consideration is needed due to its petite size. This assessment is based on standard and the VDH breed portrait.

The small spitz History of the Scottish Terrier The Kleinspitz belongs to the German Spitz breed and is one of the oldest dog breeds in Central Europe. The Spitz is considered to be a descendant of the Stone Age turf dog and later pile dwelling Spitz. For many generations, they were kept as watchful farmyard and companion dogs. The Kleinspitz developed as a smaller variety of the German Spitz. Appearance Body shape: The Miniature Spitz is small, compact and almost square in build. Typical features include the fox-like head, the small, erect ears, the dark, alert eyes and the bushy tail curled over the back. Despite its small size, it appears alert, proud and lively. Coat: The coat is very lush and striking. The neck and shoulders are framed by a thick mane, the legs are well feathered and the tail is bushy. The coat is neither wavy nor curly, but stands out in a typical spitz-like manner due to the dense undercoat. Nature/character The Kleinspitz is considered to be lively, attentive, affectionate and very alert. It is usually closely attached to its humans and reliably reports what is happening around it. It is often rather reserved towards strangers without being fundamentally fearful. His eagerness to learn, his presence and his often astonishingly self-confident demeanour for such a small dog are typical. Grooming The coat needs regular grooming to prevent matting and to remove loose hair. Thorough brushing several times a week is advisable, often even more frequently when the coat is changing. Ears, claws, teeth and eyes should also be checked. Despite their luxuriant coat, grooming is usually manageable if it becomes a routine right from the start. Health The Kleinspitz is generally regarded as a robust and long-lived variety. Nevertheless, as with any breed, care should be taken to ensure responsible breeding. Depending on the line, patellar luxation, dental problems, eye problems or other hereditary diseases can play a role. Regular veterinary checks, good weight management and a reputable breeding base are important. Education The Kleinspitz is generally easy to train if it is handled in a friendly, clear and consistent manner. Because of its alertness, particular attention should be paid to directing barking behaviour at an early stage. He is smart and attentive, but can also be stubborn if he is not taken seriously because of his size. With early socialisation and loving leadership, he usually develops into a pleasant companion. What are the special features of this breed? What is special about this breed is the combination of small size and large demeanour. The Kleinspitz is not a quiet lap dog, but an attentive, self-confident and often very alert companion. Other typical characteristics are the lush coat, the tail carried over the back and the close bond with its humans. He has a lot of personality and wants to be taken seriously in everyday life. Suitable for first-time dog owners? Yes, the Kleinspitz is often well suited to first-time dog owners. They are usually eager to learn, adaptable and closely attached to their humans. However, it is important that his alertness and barking behaviour are well managed from the outset and that he is not belittled simply because of his small size. This assessment is a professional categorisation based on the breed characteristics described. Family dog or not? Yes, the Kleinspitz can be a good family dog. They are affectionate, lively and like to be close to their humans. It fits particularly well into families or households that enjoy a watchful, small and present dog. He usually feels very comfortable with respectful behaviour and clear rules.

Cocker Spaniel profileHistory of the Cocker SpanielThe English Cocker Spaniel was bred to be a hunting dog and was traditionally used for hunting, including woodcock, from which the name "Cocker" is derived.AppearanceBody shape: You get a compact, athletic dog with a strong build designed for endurance and agility. Coat: The coat is of medium length, silky and with typical feathering. To keep it beautiful, it needs regular grooming, especially on the ears, chest and "pants".Nature and characterMany Cockers are cheerful, people-oriented, intelligent and eager to work. At the same time, they are often sensitive and, depending on their line and occupation, can quickly "turn on" if there is a lack of rest and structure.GroomingThey should be brushed regularly and knots untied early, especially on the ears and feathering. Ear care is also important because the long ears can promote ear infections.HealthTypical issues are ear problems as well as various hereditary diseases, which is why health examinations and proofs are very useful in breeding.EducationThey usually do very well with positive reinforcement, clear rules and consistent recall training. As many Cockers like to work with their nose, search games, retrieving and dummy training help to keep your dog balanced in everyday life.What special features does this breed haveThe Cocker is a search dog that loves to work: active and motivated outdoors, often pleasantly cuddly indoors when well exercised. The long, heavily feathered ears and the need for regular grooming and ear care are typical.Suitable for first-time dog owners?Often yes, if you are prepared to train consistently, groom regularly and keep the dog busy and mentally and physically active. If you are looking for a dog that "just works" without training and exercise, it may be more difficult.Family dog or not?In many cases, yes: many cockers are friendly, playful and fit well into active families, as long as exercise, activity and rest periods are right

The DeerhoundHistory of the DeerhoundThe Deerhound is known as the "Scottish Deerhound" and has been used to hunt red deer for many centuries. The standard describes a long tradition in Scotland and emphasizes that the type has remained very similar over the centuries.AppearanceBody shape: Reminiscent of a very large, rough-coated Greyhound: high-stepping, deep-chested, powerfully built but elegant. His body is built for speed, strength and endurance.Coat: The coat is functional: wiry and weatherproof on the body, with softer areas on the head/chest/belly; "woolly" coats are undesirable.Temperament and characterTypical characteristics are gentle dignity, friendliness and a rather calm demeanor in the house. The standard describes him as gentle, friendly, good-natured, obedient and easy to train - at the same time he remains a sighthound with a sight-hunting instinct.GroomingBrush/comb out regularly (especially after forest/hedges) so that dirt and small patches of felt do not remain. Check ears, claws and teeth as usual. Above all, it is important to find the right balance between exercise (e.g. free, safe sprints) and rest - Deerhounds are often athletic outdoors and surprisingly relaxed indoors.HealthIn large, deep-chested breeds, gastric torsion (GDV/bloat) is an important issue. In addition, dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) and bone cancer (osteosarcoma) are described as relevant problems in Deerhounds.TrainingFriendly, clear and calm leadership. Typical for sighthounds is the instinct to hunt by sight: recall is often never "100% game-proof". Therefore, train alternatives early on (impulse control, orientation towards humans) and work with a lead/secured free run in areas with lots of game. Short, positive sessions usually work better than drill-like training.What are the special features of this breed?Very large, fast and strong - needs safe opportunities for free runs. Sight hunting instinct: deer/hares can "flip the switch" (management more important than perfection). Often quiet indoors, athletic outdoors - many are real "sofa sprinters". Keep an eye on health issues of large, deep-chested dogs (e.g. GDV).Suitable for first-time dog owners?Conditionally. If you are experienced in handling large dogs or are prepared to familiarize yourself consistently (safety management, greyhound recall reality, health care), it can work. As an "uncomplicated side dog" it is usually too demanding.Family dog or not?Yes, often - if the family is right. In quiet households with respectful children, clear rules and enough space/exercise, he can be a very pleasant family dog. For very hectic families or when there are hardly any safe running opportunities, he is rather difficult.

The Continental Miniature Spaniel History of the Continental Dwarf Spaniel The Continental Miniature Spaniel is one of the old European society dogs. Small spaniels of this type were popular in aristocratic courts for many centuries and can be seen in numerous historical paintings. Today there are two varieties within the same breed, namely the Papillon with erect ears and the Phalène with drooping ears. The FCI lists Belgium and France together as the countries of origin. Appearance Body shape: The Continental Miniature Spaniel is a small, harmoniously built, elegant and lively dog. Its body is slightly longer than tall, but fine and not weak. Typical are the fine bone structure, the proud posture and the light, graceful movement. Coat: The coat is long, fine and silky with beautiful feathering. Particularly striking are the heavily furred ears and the richly feathered, high carried tail. In the Papillon, the large pricked ears contribute significantly to the typical butterfly-like expression. Nature/character The Continental Miniature Spaniel is considered to be cheerful, attentive, clever and very people-oriented. They are usually lively, charming and eager to learn, often with a surprising amount of temperament for their size. Many dogs of this breed are affectionate and alert without being as heavy or rough as larger companion dogs. Grooming Grooming is generally manageable, but requires regularity. The silky coat should be brushed several times a week to prevent matting, especially on the ears, pants and tail. In addition, teeth, eyes, ears, claws and paws should be checked regularly. As the breed is small, dental care also plays a particularly important role. Health The Continental Miniature Spaniel is generally considered to be a fairly robust small breed, but health problems can occur depending on the lineage. These include patellar luxation, eye diseases and dental problems. Responsible breeding, regular veterinary checks and good weight management are important. Training Training is often successful because the breed is intelligent, attentive and closely oriented towards people. Loving consistency, early socialization and clear rules are important. Despite its small size, the dog should not be pampered, because even a small, very intelligent companion dog needs orientation and meaningful activity. With positive reinforcement, the Continental Miniature Spaniel usually learns very quickly. What are the special features of this breed? What is special about this breed is the combination of its very small size, great elegance and amazing intelligence. The Continental Miniature Spaniel is not just a lap dog, but often an alert, agile and very adaptive companion. The two ear variants Papillon and Phalène, which belong to the same FCI breed, are also striking. The Papillon in particular is immediately unmistakable due to its butterfly-like ears. Suitable for first-time dog owners? Yes, in principle the Continental Miniature Spaniel is often well suited to first-time dog owners. They are usually friendly, smart and easy to train. However, despite its small size, it must be taken seriously, trained consistently and not overprotected. The breed usually does very well in a calm, loving and structured home. Family dog or not? Yes, in principle the Continental Miniature Spaniel can be a good family dog. They are affectionate, playful and like to be close to their humans. It is particularly well suited to families who treat a small dog with respect. Care should be taken with very small children due to their delicate stature.