Hovawart

The DobermanHistory of the Scottish TerrierThe Dobermann is the only German dog breed to be named after its first known breeder: Friedrich Louis Dobermann. In the 19th century, the breed was developed as a vigilant, sharp and resilient guard and working dog and was later also used as a police and service dog.AppearanceBuild: medium to large, strong, muscular and at the same time very elegant. Typical are the proud posture, the clear lines and the athletic, almost square build. He appears powerful, determined and very present.Coat: The coat is very easy to care for because it is short and smooth. It provides less protection against the cold than densely coated breeds with an undercoat, which is why many Dobermans are more sensitive in winter or when wet.Nature/characterAccording to the FCI, the Doberman should have a friendly and peaceful disposition, be very affectionate in the family, with a medium temperament, medium keenness, good manageability, willingness to work, self-confidence and fearlessness. The VDH also describes him as intelligent, attentive, robust and loyal; he is often initially reserved towards strangers.GroomingGrooming is uncomplicated; regular brushing and the usual claw, ear and dental care are usually sufficient. Exercise, activity and close social contact are more important for the Doberman than grooming. They are athletic and want to be challenged both physically and mentally.HealthHeart health and responsible breeding are particularly important for this breed. Frequently mentioned issues are dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM), von Willebrand's disease (vWD) and hip dysplasia (HD); VDH breeder websites mention heart examinations, genetic tests and HD examinations, among other things. Thyroid problems are also mentioned as a typical breed issue.EducationThe Doberman is very capable of learning and eager to work, but needs expert, calm and consistent leadership. His strength, alertness and sensitivity need to be channelled in the right direction. With fair training, early socialisation and clear rules, he is usually a very reliable partner.What are the special features of this breed?The Dobermann combines elegance, speed, alertness and a high willingness to work like hardly any other breed. He usually bonds very closely to his humans, is alert and quick to react, but also sensitive and not made for a side-by-side attitude. He needs closeness, structure and meaningful tasks.Suitable for first-time dog owners?Rather no. The VDH expressly describes it as not a four-legged friend for beginners because it is demanding and needs expert training. Dedicated beginners with very good guidance could keep him, but overall he is better suited to experienced dog owners.Family dog or not?Yes, in principle - but only if kept appropriately. The FCI standard expressly states that it should also be particularly suitable as a family dog. The VDH describes it as a loyal family dog with a close bond, high adaptability and good tolerance towards children. However, this requires good socialisation, sufficient exercise and competent training.

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 Gordon Setter History of the Scottish Terrier The Gordon Setter originates from Scotland and was bred there as an enduring hunting dog for bird hunting. The breed became particularly famous through the Duke of Gordon, who promoted it in the 18th and 19th centuries. The aim was to produce a powerful, elegant and robust setter with excellent tracking ability and close contact with humans. Today, the Gordon Setter is used both for hunting and as a sporting companion and family dog. Appearance Body shape: Strong, elegant and harmoniously built. The Gordon Setter is the heaviest of the setter breeds, but does not appear clumsy. He has a deep chest, a straight back and an overall athletic appearance. Coat: The coat is typically jet black with clearly defined chestnut-red markings. It is shorter on the head and the front of the legs, medium length on the body and clearly feathered on the ears, chest, belly, legs and tail. Nature/character The Gordon Setter is considered intelligent, loyal, sensitive and very people orientated. He is lively, attentive and eager to work, but often somewhat more serious and calm than other setters. He is very affectionate towards his family. Towards strangers he is usually more reserved than impetuous. He needs a close bond and feels most comfortable with clear, fair leadership. Grooming The coat needs regular grooming to prevent matting. Brushing several times a week is advisable, especially on the feathered areas. Ears, paws and teeth should also be checked. After walks in the woods and fields, it is important to check the coat and hangings for dirt, burrs or ticks. Health The Gordon Setter is generally considered a robust breed, but like many medium-sized to large dogs, it can be prone to hip dysplasia. Eye problems can also occur. Attention should also be paid to ear care, as the long hanging ears can favour inflammation. Responsible breeding, sufficient exercise and a balanced diet are important. Education Training should be loving, consistent and patient. The Gordon Setter is smart, but also sensitive and not suited to harsh methods. Its hunting disposition requires early training, especially in recall and impulse control. With good socialisation, clear rules and sensible exercise, he will develop into a reliable companion. What are the special features of this breed? The Gordon Setter has a great hunting instinct, stamina and a love of work. He is not a pure sofa dog, but needs both physical and mental activity. It is characterised by its close bond with its humans and its often somewhat more delicate, sensitive nature. Compared to other setters, he often appears somewhat more powerful, serious and calm, but still needs plenty of exercise and tasks. Suitable for first-time dog owners? Conditional. The Gordon Setter can be well suited to committed first-time dog owners with time, patience and a love of exercise. However, its hunting instinct, sensitivity and need for activity should not be underestimated. Without suitable exercise and consistent training, he can become difficult. Family dog or not? Yes, the Gordon Setter is basically a good family dog. He is affectionate, loyal and seeks to be close to his carers. In an active family with sufficient time, exercise and activity, he usually feels very comfortable. He can be friendly and patient with children, provided he is well socialised and treated with respect.

The Giant SchnauzerHistory of the Giant SchnauzerThe Giant Schnauzer originates from Germany. Originally, it was mainly used as a herding and farm dog in southern Germany. Around 1900, breeders recognized its suitability as a powerful working dog. It has been listed in the stud book since 1913 and was officially recognized as a service dog in 1925. AppearanceBody shape: The Giant Schnauzer is large, strong and compact rather than slender. It appears muscular, robust and alert, with an almost square format. Despite its strength, it should not appear clumsy, but harmonious and capable of working. Coat: The coat is typically schnauzer-like, wiry and hard. In addition, the distinctive bushy brows and the strong beard strongly characterize the expression of the breed. Pepper-salt, pure black with black undercoat and black-silver are permitted. Nature/characterThe Giant Schnauzer is considered to be self-confident, strong in character, alert and resilient. At the same time, it is described as benign, loyal and closely attached to its family. Its intelligence, trainability and high willingness to work are typical. It is precisely this mixture that makes him so interesting as a service and working dog.GroomingGrooming is more complex than it seems at first glance. The hard coat should be brushed regularly and dead hair must usually be removed by trimming to maintain the structure and function of the coat. In addition, ears, claws, teeth and paws should be checked regularly. HealthThe Giant Schnauzer is generally regarded as a hardy and efficient breed. Nevertheless, attention should be paid to responsible breeding. As with other large, athletic dogs, hip problems and other hereditary diseases can play a role, depending on the lineage. Controlled growth, good weight management and sensible physical exercise are also important. TrainingTraining should be clear, calm and consistent. The Giant Schnauzer is intelligent and capable of learning, but also self-confident and not simply eager to please. It needs early socialization, reliable rules and a meaningful task. Underchallenging or unclear leadership can quickly become problematic with this strong and alert breed. What are the special features of this breed?What makes this breed special is the combination of its striking Schnauzer appearance, strong personality and high working ability. The Giant Schnauzer is not only an impressive family dog, but also a versatile sporting, working and service dog. Its alertness, resilience and self-confidence make it special, but also require experienced and committed owners.Suitable for first-time dog owners?Only to a limited extent. A very committed and well-informed first-time dog owner can cope with a Giant Schnauzer, but the breed is not easy. Its size, strength, alertness and the need for clear guidance and activity make it more demanding than many typical beginner dogs.Family dog or not?Yes, in principle the Giant Schnauzer can be a good family dog. They are often loyal, affectionate and closely bonded to their humans. However, it is best suited to active, structured households that have time for training, activity and consistent leadership. It is not intended to be an uncomplicated dog for everyday life.

The Siberian HuskyHistory of the Scottish TerrierThe Siberian Husky goes back to the sled dogs of the Chukchi in north-east Asia. The breed was later brought to North America and developed further there, primarily as an endurance sled dog. Today's official origin according to the FCI is the USA, even though the historical roots lie in Siberia. AppearanceBody shape: The Siberian Husky is a medium-sized, fast and light-footed working dog with harmonious proportions. Its body is moderately compact, muscular but not heavy. Typical features include the erect ears, the bushy tail and the alert, Nordic expression. Coat: The coat is double-layered and provides excellent protection against the cold. It is neither excessively long nor shaggy, but functional, dense and weather-resistant. The Husky sheds a great deal of undercoat, particularly during the moulting season.Nature/characterThe Siberian Husky is considered friendly, gentle, attentive and sociable. It is usually not a typical guard dog, often quite open towards people and frequently shows a certain degree of independence. Many huskies are eager to move, intelligent and enjoy working, but also have a strong will of their own. GroomingGrooming is usually straightforward outside of the shedding season. Regular brushing is often enough to remove loose hair and keep the coat clean. During the shedding season, the grooming effort is significantly higher because a lot of undercoat falls out.HealthThe Siberian Husky is generally regarded as a robust and efficient breed. Nevertheless, eye diseases such as cataracts or progressive retinal atrophy as well as hip problems can occur. Good breeding, health checks and appropriate exercise are therefore important.EducationTraining a Siberian Husky requires patience, consistency and a lot of daily management. It learns well, but is often independent and not designed for blind obedience. Early socialisation, leash training and a confident recall are particularly important, although the latter can remain challenging due to the often strong hunting instinct.What are the special features of this breed?What makes the Siberian Husky special is its enormous stamina, its love of running and its original suitability as a sled dog. It usually needs considerably more exercise and meaningful activity than many other breeds. In addition, he is often very social, but also independent, eager to break out and motivated to hunt. Its dense undercoat and Nordic appearance make it unmistakable.Suitable for first-time dog owners?Rather limited. A Siberian Husky is usually not an easy breed for beginners because it needs a lot of exercise, clear leadership and an understanding of the breed. Those with little experience can quickly reach their limits with a Husky, especially when it comes to recall, hunting instinct and exercise. However, with very good preparation and the right lifestyle, it can still work.Family dog or not?Yes, the Siberian Husky can basically be a family dog. They are often friendly, social and closely bonded to their humans. At the same time, it only fits well into a family if there is enough time for exercise, training and activity. It is usually less suitable for a rather quiet home without much activity.

The Lhasa ApsoHistory of the Scottish TerrierThe Lhasa Apso originates from Tibet and was kept there for many centuries as a watchful companion and temple dog. Especially in monasteries and wealthy households, it was regarded as a valued small guard dog. The FCI lists Tibet as the country of origin and Great Britain as the breed's patron country.AppearanceBody shape: The Lhasa Apso is a small, well-balanced and robust dog. Despite its small size, it does not appear dainty, but rather compact, confident and resilient. Its expression is alert and self-assured.Coat: The coat is one of the breed’s most striking features. It is long, heavy and falls straight down. It should be neither silky nor woolly. The thick fur on the head, beard and around the eyes is part of the Lhasa Apso’s typical appearance.Nature/characterThe Lhasa Apso is considered cheerful, self-confident, attentive and quite independent. It is often reserved or somewhat aloof towards strangers, but is usually close to the people it loves. Its mixture of small size and surprisingly alert, serious character is typical.GroomingGrooming is time-consuming and requires regularity. The long coat should be brushed and combed thoroughly to prevent matting. Eyes, ears, paws, claws and teeth should also be checked regularly. Consistent grooming is very important in everyday life, especially for such a long-haired little dog. HealthThe Lhasa Apso is generally regarded as a fairly robust and long-lived small breed. Nevertheless, care should be taken to ensure responsible breeding. Depending on the line, eye problems, skin issues, dental problems or patella problems can play a role. Regular veterinary checks, good weight management and a reputable breeding base are important. EducationTraining should be friendly, clear and consistent. The Lhasa Apso is intelligent, but often also wilful and not simply eager to please. It therefore needs early socialisation, reliable rules and calm leadership. Harsh methods do not suit this self-confident, often sensitive breed. What are the special features of this breed?What is special about this breed is the combination of its small body, large presence and ancient monastery dog history. The Lhasa Apso is not a typical submissive small dog, but often a self-confident, alert and quite independent companion. In addition, its distinctive, long coat makes it unmistakable.Suitable for first-time dog owners?Conditional. A calm, consistent and well-informed first-time dog owner can get on well with a Lhasa Apso. However, the breed is not completely uncomplicated because it can be independent, vigilant and sometimes stubborn. Anyone who underestimates small dogs simply because of their size will not always get on easily with a Lhasa Apso.Family dog or not?Yes, in principle the Lhasa Apso can be a good family dog. It is particularly suited to quiet, respectful households where its independence is taken seriously. It often gets on well with older, understanding children. It is less at home in very noisy or hectic families. This classification is a technical deduction from the breed's character, size and typical behaviour.

The Miniature SchnauzerHistory of the Scottish TerrierThe Miniature Schnauzer originated around the turn of the century in the Frankfurt am Main area and was initially known as the rough-haired Miniature Pinscher. The aim was to create a small dog with the character and appearance of the Schnauzer, without dwarf-like exaggerations.AppearanceThe Miniature Schnauzer is a small, strong, stocky rather than slender, rough-coated dog. It is said to be the miniature version of the Schnauzer and appears alert, robust and compact. Body shape: Squarely built, with the height at the withers roughly corresponding to the body length; strong, compact and well proportioned.Coat: Wiry, dense and weatherproof, with a distinctive beard and bushy brows. Nature/characterThe Miniature Schnauzer is considered to be smart, lively, alert and fearless. The FCI describes it analogously with the characteristics of the Schnauzer in a small form: benign, playful, spirited and alert.GroomingThe coat needs regular brushing and, in this breed, usually also professional trimming to maintain the typical wiry structure. The beard, eyebrows and legs require additional grooming because dirt easily accumulates there. HealthThe FCI standard requires functionally and clinically healthy breeding animals. The Miniature Schnauzer is generally considered to be a fairly robust small dog, but responsible breeding is important as always. The standard itself does not give a detailed list of typical breed diseases.EducationThe Miniature Schnauzer is eager to learn and attentive, but needs clear, friendly consistency. Because of its alertness and self-confident terrier temperament, you should work on socialisation, leash training and controlled alert behaviour at an early age.What are the special features of this breed?His distinctive Schnauzer head with beard and brows, wiry coat and mixture of small size and great self-confidence are what make him special. He is not a fragile lap dog, but an alert, robust and rather present companion dog.Suitable for first-time dog owners?Yes, often well suited. The Miniature Schnauzer can be very suitable for motivated beginners because it is manageable, intelligent and suitable for everyday use. However, you should be prepared to deal with its alertness, temperament and grooming requirements.Family dog or not?Yes, in many cases a good family dog. He is affectionate, lively and robust enough for an active everyday life, as long as he is treated with respect and kept busy in a meaningful way. They usually do well in families with clear rules and regular grooming.

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.