Irish Wolfhound
FCI standard number: 160
Country of origin: Ireland
Classification: FCI Group 10, Section 2, Wirehaired Sighthounds
Height at withers bitch: from 71 cm
Height at withers male: from 79 cm
Weight female: approx. from 40.5 kg
Weight male: approx. from 54.5 kg
Coat colour: grey, brindle, red, black, pure white, fawn and other colours found in the Deerhound
Coat texture: Rough, hard and wiry, especially over the eyes and on the lower jaw
Neck circumference: approx. 50-65 cm - please always measure directly on the dog
Product information "Irish Wolfhound"
Irish Wolfhound - Irish Wolfhound
History of the Scottish Terrier
The Irish Wolfhound is one of the oldest known types of sighthound. Its ancestors were valued very early on in Ireland as great hunting and war dogs. Later, the population declined sharply and the breed was systematically rebuilt in the 19th century. A decisive role was played by Capt. G. A. Graham, who consolidated the modern breed with a few remaining dogs of the old type and with Deerhound blood, among other things. The Irish Wolfhound thus also became a symbol of Irish cultural history.
Appearance
Body shape: The Irish Wolfhound is a very large, imposing yet elegant dog. It should not be as massive as a Great Dane, but more powerful than a Deerhound. Its build is muscular, long-lined and harmonious, with a head and neck carried high and, overall, a light, active gait.
Coat: The coat is rough, hard and weather-resistant. Particularly distinctive is the somewhat shaggy hair above the eyes and on the muzzle. Several colour variations are permitted, including grey, brindle, red, black, white and fawn.
Nature/character
The Irish Wolfhound is considered to be friendly, calm, dignified and people orientated. A famous description of their character is the phrase "a lamb at home and a lion on the hunt". In everyday life, many representatives of the breed show a gentle, patient and rather sensitive demeanour. Despite their size, they are not usually nervous or constantly alert dogs, but rather calm companions with a close bond to their humans.
Grooming
Grooming is generally straightforward, although the wiry coat should be brushed regularly. Loose hair and dirt can usually be removed easily. In addition, ears, claws, teeth and paws should be checked regularly. Due to their enormous body size, care should also be taken to provide a suitable lying surface, exercise that is easy on the joints and a suitable body weight.
Health
Like many very large dog breeds, the Irish Wolfhound also has special health characteristics. Important features include attention to heart problems, bone disease, gastric torsion and joint-related stresses. Growth as a young dog must also be well monitored so that bones and joints are not overloaded. Overall, the breed is considered to be comparatively sensitive in terms of size, and life expectancy is often shorter than with smaller breeds.
Education
Training should be loving, calm and consistent. The Irish Wolfhound is usually sensitive and does not respond well to harshness. Early socialisation, good leash training and basic signals that are safe for everyday use are important, as even a young dog develops enormous strength. Because of its sighthound background, the recall should also be carefully developed. With patience and fair leadership, the breed is generally easy to control.
What are the special features of this breed?
The most striking feature of the Irish Wolfhound is of course its enormous size. The Irish Wolfhound is one of the largest dog breeds in the world. Despite this impressive appearance, it is often gentle, calm and very affectionate. At the same time, it has typical sighthound characteristics, i.e. a certain hunting instinct, dignity, sensitivity and sometimes also a quiet independence. They need a lot of space in everyday life, good management and an awareness that even normal movements of such a large dog can develop a lot of strength.
Suitable for first-time dog owners?
Rather limited. Although the Irish Wolfhound can be friendly and good-natured in character, its size, strength and special health requirements do not make it the easiest breed to start with. However, a very well-informed and responsible first-time dog owner can get on well with this breed with plenty of preparation, suitable support and sufficient space.
Family dog or not?
Yes, in principle the Irish Wolfhound can be a very good family dog. It is often gentle, patient and closely bonded to its people. It usually feels at home in a calm, responsible family with sufficient space and understanding for its needs. Because of its size, however, it should always be closely supervised around small children, simply because such a large dog can be unintentionally very physical.
Composition
Feeding recommendation
Technical details
Size information
Login
Suggested products
Greyhound
The greyhound
History of the Scottish Terrier
The greyhound is one of the oldest known types of sighthound. The FCI standard mentions that its origin may have been in the Middle Oster and that dog-typical depictions can already be found in ancient Egyptian tombs. In Great Britain, it was developed primarily as a sight hunter and later also as a racing dog.
Appearance
Body shape: The Greyhound is large, powerful and yet very elegantly built, with a long head and neck, deep chest, spacious body, slightly arched loin and very muscular hindquarters. Its entire anatomy is designed for speed and ground-covering movement.
Coat: The coat is short, fine, dense and lies close to the body, so that the musculature and lines are very clearly visible.
Nature/character
The greyhound is considered intelligent, friendly, affectionate and even-tempered. They are often surprisingly calm and relaxed indoors, but show a pronounced urge to move and hunt outdoors. Many Greyhounds are sensitive and like to be handled calmly and fairly.
Grooming
Grooming is comparatively easy because the coat is short and low-maintenance. It is usually sufficient to treat the dog occasionally with a soft brush or a grooming glove. Checking claws and paws is often more important than extensive grooming.
Health
The greyhound is generally considered to be a rather robust breed, but grey lock, hip and elbow dysplasia and eye problems are some of the possible issues mentioned. Responsible breeding with a focus on health is crucial.
Education
The greyhound needs gentle, patient and sensitive training. Harsh words or rough handling do not suit this sensitive breed. It is also important to take into account the strong urge to chase and hunt: Free running is often only advisable in securely fenced areas.
What are the special features of this breed?
The greyhound is one of the fastest dogs in the world and a typical sprinter. At the same time, it is often a very calm companion in everyday life. Its strong sight-hunting instinct is also special: it often reacts at lightning speed to movement stimuli. Added to this is his sensitive nature, which requires a great deal of sensitivity in handling.
Suitable for first-time dog owners?
Conditionally yes. A greyhound can also be suitable for committed beginners if they are well informed about greyhounds and are prepared to pay attention to hunting instinct, sensitivity and safe free running. He is not a "difficult" dog in the classic sense, but his breed-typical needs should not be underestimated.
Family dog or not?
Yes, often yes. With sufficient exercise and a calm attitude, the greyhound can be a friendly, balanced and affectionate family dog. It is considered to be people-orientated and is often described as pleasant to be around children. Nevertheless, it needs places to retreat to, understanding children and a safe environment due to its hunting instinct.
Boxer
Profile Boxer (German Boxer)History of the BoxerIn the standard, the (Brabant) Bullenbeisser, which was formerly used for hunting, is named as the direct ancestor. From this tradition, the Boxer developed into a companion, protection and working dog.AppearanceBody shape:
You will get a medium-sized to large, powerful, square-looking dog with dry muscles and clear athleticism. The Boxer should appear energetic and agile, not ponderous.
Coat:
The coat is short and easy to care for, but shows each body shape very clearly. The typical colors are yellow or brindle, often with a black mask.Nature and characterThe Boxer is a lively, people-oriented and courageous dog that wants to be close to its family. At the same time, the Boxer is alert and protective, which makes early socialization and clear rules particularly importantGroomingGrooming is uncomplicated: regular short brushing is often sufficient. Fitness, weight control and a watchful eye on skin folds, ears, teeth and claws are practically more important.HealthAbove all, you should be aware of cardiac issues (e.g. typical boxer heart disease) and tumor diseases, which are described more frequently in boxers. Hip problems are also mentioned, and because of the shorter muzzle, heat and heavy exertion can quickly become a problem (respiratory tract).TrainingYou will get furthest with calm consistency, clear boundaries and reward-based training. Because the Boxer is physically strong and likes to work with power, it is worthwhile to establish proper leash training, impulse control and calmness early on.What special features does this breed haveThe Boxer combines athleticism, clown charm and a strong family bond with vigilance. It needs regular exercise and mental work, but is often not a dog for extreme endurance marathons, especially in warm weather (breathing!)Suitable for first-time dog owners? Rather limited: If you train consistently, use a dog training school and take the strength/management issue seriously, it can be a good fit. Without structure and training, the Boxer's temperament and physical strength can quickly make it exhausting in everyday lifeFamily dog or not?In many cases, yes: many Boxers are very family-oriented and child-friendly if you teach them rules, calmness and respectful behavior. Always bear in mind size, strength and the issue of heat/stress.
German Hunting Terrier
The German Hunting Terrier
The German Hunting Terrier is a small, compact, very powerful hunting dog. It was specifically bred for hunting work, especially for hunting in the field, rummaging and versatile work before and after the shot. His temperament is courageous, hard, hard-working, persistent, spirited and easy to handle.History of the Scottish TerrierThe breed originated in Germany after the First World War. Some hunters wanted to breed a dog that was consistently orientated towards hunting performance rather than show ideals. Rudolf Frieß, Walter Zangenberg and Carl-Erich Grünewald laid the foundation stone with black and red terriers; later, Old English rough-coated terriers and Welsh terriers were crossed in, among others. The German Hunting Terrier Club was founded in 1926.AppearanceBody shape: The German Hunting Terrier is small, compact, well proportioned and strongly built. It has a rather elongated, wedge-shaped head, dark, deep-set eyes with a determined expression and a high-set, V-shaped tilting ear. The body is muscular, resilient and functionally built - designed for working ability.Coat: The coat is dense, hard and weatherproof. The German Hunting Terrier is available in smooth-haired and rough-haired varieties. It protects him well in the field, undergrowth and water.Nature/characterTypical characteristics are courage, toughness, passion for hunting, endurance, temperament and independence. At the same time, according to the standard, he should be reliable, sociable and easy to handle. In everyday life, this means that it is not a cosy sofa dog, but a dog with a strong will to work and a clear hunting instinct.GroomingGrooming is generally rather uncomplicated. Regular brushing is usually sufficient. More important than extensive grooming is checking ears, eyes, teeth, paws and claws, especially after working in the hunting ground. HealthThe German Hunting Terrier is generally regarded as a robust and hardy breed. Due to its use as a working dog, stress and hunting injuries are more to the fore than many typical beauty problems. However, some sources mention eye problems, in particular a predisposition to primary lens luxation (PLL); health certificates are therefore advisable when choosing a breeder.EducationTraining must be early, consistent, fair and very clear. The German Hunting Terrier is intelligent, but also strong-willed and independent. They need confident leadership, good socialisation and, above all, meaningful exercise. Pure activity games are not enough for many representatives of the breed in the long term.What special features does this breed haveThe most distinctive feature is the very strong hunting instinct combined with toughness, courage and an enormous will to work. The German Hunting Terrier was not bred as a companion dog, but as a fully-fledged hunting dog. It can be used in a variety of ways, for example for hunting in the field, rummaging and water hunting. This is exactly what makes him great for suitable handlers, but often difficult for unsuitable owners.Suitable for first-time dog owners?No. As a rule, the German Hunting Terrier is not a beginner's dog. Its energy, consistency in work, independence and hunting instinct require experience, leadership and suitable activity.Family dog or not?Only limited. The German Hunting Terrier is usually not ideal as a pure family dog. In hunting-led, very active and consistent hands, it can be closely bonded to its people, but without the right amount of exercise for the breed, it is often underchallenged and difficult in everyday life.
German Wirehair
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.
Small poodle
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
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
Australian Shepherd
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".
Berger de Brie - Briard
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.
Bernese Mountain Dog
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.
Staffordshire Bull Terrier
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.
German Wirehair
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.
Continental Dwarf Spaniel
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.