Greater Swiss Mountain Dog

The Shih TzuHistory of the Scottish TerrierThe origins of the Shih Tzu lie in Tibet, but the actual development of the breed took place in China, where such dogs were kept at the imperial court. The Shih Tzu was often confused with the Lhasa Apso, although there are clear differences. As an independent breed, it was later given its own register and continued as a companion dog.AppearanceBody shape: The Shih Tzu is a sturdy, heavily coated, compact little dog with a proud bearing. It is slightly longer in build, i.e. longer from the withers to the base of the tail than it is tall. Typical features include the round head, large dark eyes, short muzzle and chrysanthemum-like face. Coat: The coat is long, dense and flows luxuriously. It should not be curly, but a slight wave is permitted. The undercoat is well developed, giving the coat a full and luxurious appearance.Nature/characterThe Shih Tzu is considered to be friendly, attentive, lively and at the same time quite independent. It is generally a very people-orientated companion dog, often charming and affectionate without being overly submissive. Many representatives of the breed show an alert, cheerful and balanced natureGroomingGrooming this breed is time-consuming because the long coat needs to be brushed and kept clean regularly. Without consistent grooming, it can quickly become matted, especially on the ears, chest, legs and under the belly. Eyes, beard and paws also need frequent attention. Grooming is an integral part of the Shih Tzu's everyday life.HealthThe Shih Tzu is generally regarded as a robust little dog, but can be prone to breathing problems, eye problems, dental problems and skin problems typical of the breed. Due to their short muzzle and abundant head hair, careful observation is important in everyday life. Serious breeding with a view to health and free breathing is therefore particularly important.EducationThe Shih Tzu is usually capable of learning, but can also have a mind of its own. It can be trained well with friendly consistency, clear rules and positive reinforcement. Pressure and harshness are of little use. Early familiarisation with grooming, everyday stimuli and respectful interaction with people and other animals are important.What are the special features of this breed?Particularly striking are the chrysanthemum-like face, the long luxurious coat and the very close suitability as a companion dog. The Shih Tzu was not bred for hard work, but for closeness to humans. As a result, it is often very affectionate, charming and likes to be at the centre of family life. At the same time, it requires considerably more grooming than many other small breeds.Suitable for first-time dog owners?Yes, in many cases it is. The Shih Tzu can be well suited to first-time dog owners if they are prepared to take on the intensive grooming and provide consistent but loving training. It is usually manageable, people-friendly and can be easily integrated into everyday life as a companion dog.Family dog or not? Yes, the Shih Tzu is generally a good family dog. It is usually friendly, adaptable and likes to be close to its humans. However, it is important for families that children treat the small dog with respect and that grooming is not underestimated. In a loving home, it is often a very pleasant and cheerful flatmate.

Bobtail profileHistory of the BobtailThe standard describes that the breed, which is now listed as British, probably also has influences from European sheepdog types (including Owtcharka and Bergamasco types) and was further shaped in Great Britain. The name "Bobtail" is also closely associated with the shortened tail that was often used in the pastAppearanceBody shape: You get a strong, compact-looking, square dog with plenty of substance, which should not appear long-legged. Typical is the slightly rising back line and the "pear-shaped" impression from above. Coat: The coat is the trademark: long, dense and weatherproof, with undercoat. The standard emphasizes that clipping or severe shortening should not distort the natural silhouette.Nature and characterThe bobtail is docile, balanced, courageous, loyal and reliable, without nervousness or unfounded aggression. You will often see a friendly, playful family dog that can nevertheless be alert.GroomingYou should allow plenty of time for grooming: regular, thorough brushing (often several times a week, sometimes daily for long coats) helps to prevent tangles and keeps dirt out of the coat. Many owners also use professional grooming because the coat is very high-maintenance.HealthFrequently mentioned issues are hip dysplasia and eye problems such as progressive retinal atrophy and hereditary cataracts. In addition, autoimmune thyroiditis, congenital deafness and other diseases are described, which is why preventive health care and serious breeding examinations are important.TrainingYou will get furthest with calm consistency and reward-based training. As Bobtails are intelligent but can also think for themselves, clear everyday rules, early socialization and a sensible mix of exercise and mental work help.What special features does this breed haveThe Bobtail is a large, strong dog with a striking shaggy coat and often a very friendly demeanor. The coat is also the biggest grooming factor, and the size means that being able to walk on a lead, calmness and good handling are crucial in everyday life.Suitable for first-time dog owners?Rather limited: If you are prepared to train consistently and really plan in grooming on a permanent basis, it can be a good fit. If you are looking for a low-maintenance dog, the breed is usually not a good choice.Family dog or not?Often yes, because many Bobtails are very social and family-oriented. However, because of their size, temperament and coat care, you should have enough time, space and structure in everyday life and introduce small children to calm interaction with the big dog.

The NewfoundlandHistory of the Scottish TerrierThe Newfoundland originates from the Canadian Atlantic island of Newfoundland. There are various theories about its exact origin, but it is generally assumed that the breed developed from dogs from there and dogs brought over by European fishermen. The Newfoundland became known above all as a powerful working and water dog that helped fishermen and was later also valued as a rescue dog.AppearanceBody shape: The Newfoundland is a very large, massive and strong dog with a well-balanced build. Despite its size, it should appear harmonious, well-muscled and agile. Typical are the broad chest, the strong bone structure and the overall impressive but calm appearance.Coat: The coat is dense, weatherproof and functional. It protects the dog well from the cold and wet and thus suits its traditional work in the water. The recognised colours are black, brown and white-black. Nature/characterThe Newfoundland is considered friendly, calm, good-natured and people-orientated. It is characterised by its calmness, high stimulus threshold and pronounced passion for water. Many representatives of the breed are patient, affectionate and show a particular willingness to co-operate with people.GroomingCoat care should not be underestimated. The dense coat should be brushed thoroughly on a regular basis to prevent matting and to remove loose undercoat. The amount of grooming required is usually significantly higher when the coat changes. In addition, ears, claws, teeth and paws should be checked regularly. HealthLike many very large dog breeds, the Newfoundland also has special health requirements. Responsible breeding, controlled growth, a suitable body weight and joint-friendly exercise as a young dog are important. Depending on the lineage, joint problems, heart problems or other diseases typical of large dogs can play a role. EducationTraining should be calm, clear and consistent. Although the Newfoundland is considered friendly and good-natured, it needs reliable leadership and early socialisation due to its size and strength. Harsh methods are unsuitable. Good everyday rules, safe behaviour on the lead and calm handling of various environmental situations are particularly important. What are the special features of this breed?What is special about this breed is the combination of its enormous size, gentle nature and pronounced love of water. The Newfoundland is known for its calmness, good nature and suitability as a water and rescue dog. Added to this is its impressive physical presence, which requires a lot of space, responsibility and care in everyday life.Suitable for first-time dog owners?Conditional. In character, the Newfoundland is often friendly, calm and good-natured, which makes it generally approachable. However, due to its enormous size, strength, the amount of care required and the responsibility involved in keeping and training it, it is not the easiest choice for beginners. However, a well-informed and consistent first-time dog owner can get on well with this breed with the right support. Family dog or not?Yes, in principle the Newfoundland can be a very good family dog. It is considered patient, friendly and people-orientated and is often described as particularly fond of children. It is best suited to families with sufficient space, time and understanding for a very large, long-haired and water-loving dog.

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 Small Münsterländer The history The Kleiner Münsterländer is an old German hunting dog breed from the Münsterland region. Its development began in the 19th century, when long-haired quail dogs were already known in the region. These dogs were considered to be willing to track, willing to point and strong retrievers. In 1912, the Verband für Kleine Münsterländer Vorstehhunde (Association for Small Münsterland Pointing Dogs) was founded, which marked the beginning of the planned breeding of the breed. Appearance Body shape: The Kleiner Münsterländer is a medium-sized, harmoniously built and athletic dog with a lot of expression and elegance. The body is slightly longer than the height at the withers, strong but not heavy. He appears agile, enduring and powerful. Coat: The coat is glossy, dense and not too long. It is usually smooth or slightly wavy on the body. Typical are the well-defined feathering on the front and hind legs as well as the clearly feathered tail. Temperament/character The Kleiner Münsterländer is considered intelligent, attentive, friendly and spirited. He is very attached to his owner, learns quickly and enjoys working with him. At the same time, it is a passionate hunting dog with lots of energy, prey drive and stamina. In everyday family life, he is often affectionate and even-tempered if he is kept sufficiently occupied. Grooming Grooming is generally easy to manage. Regular brushing helps to remove loose hair, dirt and small tangles. After walks in the fields, woods and undergrowth, the coat, ears and paws should be checked, as burrs or parasites can easily get stuck there. Claws and teeth also need regular care. Health The Kleiner Münsterländer is generally considered to be a robust and efficient breed. Nevertheless, as with all medium-sized hunting dogs, attention should be paid to responsible breeding, healthy growth and a suitable body weight. Depending on the line, joint problems or eye issues can play a role. The general robustness is well supported by the many years of hunting use, the possible diseases are a cautious professional classification. Training Training should be friendly, clear and consistent. The Kleiner Münsterländer is intelligent and cooperative, but can also be easily distracted due to its hunting disposition. Early socialization, reliable recall and a sensible combination of exercise, nose work and mental exercise are particularly important. Harsh methods are unsuitable because they can put a strain on cooperation. What are the special features of this breed? What is special about this breed is the combination of closeness to the family and a genuine hunting disposition. The Kleiner Münsterländer is not just a companion dog, but a versatile pointing dog with a great deal of willingness to search, tracking ability and stamina. He is often very sensitive to working with his human and needs tasks that suit his nature. It is precisely this mixture of elegance, willingness to work and strong bond that makes him special. Suitable for first-time dog owners? Conditionally. A committed and well-informed first-time dog owner can get on well with a Kleiner Münsterländer if sufficient time, exercise and activity are planned. However, the breed is not easy because it is motivated by hunting and needs consistent training. If you are looking for a calm, undemanding beginner's dog, this breed is usually not the best choice. Family dog or not? Yes, the Kleiner Münsterländer can generally be a good family dog. They are often friendly, affectionate and people-oriented. However, it is particularly suitable for active families who enjoy exercise, training and spending time together. Without sufficient exercise, this intelligent hunting dog will quickly become underchallenged in everyday life.

Small Poodle History of the Poodle The poodle is one of the old European dog breeds and was originally used as a water dog. It was strongly influenced and further developed in France in particular, which is why France is now considered the country of origin. Over time, the larger working dog developed into different size variants, including the small poodle. Later, the poodle became known primarily as an intelligent companion, show and family dog. Appearance Body shape: The Small Poodle has a harmonious, elegant and well-proportioned build. It appears neither clumsy nor fragile, but lively, proud and agile. Typical are the rather square overall impression, the fine but not weak bone structure and a springy, light movement. Coat: The coat is one of the most striking characteristics of the breed. It is dense, fine and strongly curled or formed in cords. The Small Poodle usually sheds very little, but needs regular and careful grooming. Nature/character The Small Poodle is considered to be very intelligent, attentive, playful and people-oriented. They learn quickly, enjoy working with their people and are often extremely adaptable. Many small poodles are friendly, alert and sensitive without being overly nervous. Thanks to their intelligence and keen powers of observation, they often react very clearly to the mood and everyday life of their caregivers. Grooming Grooming is more complex than many people initially think. The coat must be regularly brushed, combed and cut or clipped at sensible intervals so that it does not become matted. Ears, claws, teeth and eyes should also be checked regularly. Because the coat sheds so little, loose wool often gets caught in the coat and must be actively removed. Health The small poodle is generally considered to be a fairly robust and long-lived variety. Nevertheless, attention should be paid to responsible breeding. Depending on the line, patella problems, eye diseases, dental problems or hereditary diseases can play a role. Regular veterinary checks, good weight management and a reputable breeding base are important. Training The small poodle is generally very easy to train. It learns quickly, is attentive and often wants to work closely with its owner. It responds best to friendly, clear and consistent training. Harsh methods are unsuitable because many Poodles react sensitively. With early socialization, variety and meaningful mental activity, the small poodle usually develops into a very pleasant companion. What are the special features of this breed? What is special about this breed is the combination of intelligence, elegance and a great love of learning. The small poodle is usually much more than just a pretty companion dog. They are often very attentive, athletic and versatile, for example in everyday life, dog sports or mental tasks. They also have a special coat that sheds very little but requires a lot of grooming. Suitable for first-time dog owners? Yes, the small poodle is often very suitable for first-time dog owners. They are usually smart, cooperative and easy to train. The important thing is not to underestimate them. Even a small to medium-sized poodle needs training, activity and regular grooming. If you are prepared to do this, you will often find a very pleasant beginner's dog. Family dog or not? Yes, the small poodle is generally a very good family dog. They are usually friendly, playful and closely bonded to their humans. They generally feel very comfortable in a family with loving consistency, sufficient activity and respectful treatment. Due to its adaptability, it often suits both active families and quieter households.

The RottweilerHistory of the Scottish TerrierThe Rottweiler is one of the oldest dog breeds. Its ancestors were already used as herding dogs in Ancient Rome and travelled across the Alps with the Roman legions. In the area around Rottweil, these dogs were mated with local dogs and developed into the type that later became known as the Rottweiler butcher's dog. It herded cattle, guarded property and was officially recognised as a police dog in 1910.AppearanceBody shape: The Rottweiler is medium to large in size, strong, compact and strikingly stocky in build. Despite its size, it should not appear clumsy, but rather like an athletic, enduring and agile athlete. Typical features include a broad head, deep chest, strong musculature and an overall very powerful appearance. Coat: The coat is double-coated, dense and weather-resistant. It consists of medium-length, coarse outer hair with an undercoat, which should not, however, be visible. The typical colour is black with clearly defined reddish-brown markings.Nature/characterThe Rottweiler is considered to be even-tempered, calm, strong-nerved and self-confident. At the same time, he is alert, resilient and usually closely attached to his family. With good socialisation and training, they are often friendly, docile and suitable for everyday use. Typical characteristics are his high stimulus threshold, his seriousness and his natural protective and guarding instinct.GroomingGrooming is generally uncomplicated. Occasional brushing is usually sufficient to remove loose hair and dirt. Brushing should be more thorough during the shedding period. In addition, ears, claws, teeth and paws should be checked regularly. HealthThe Rottweiler is generally regarded as a resilient and capable breed. Nevertheless, attention should be paid to responsible breeding. As with other large and strong dogs, hip and elbow problems or other hereditary diseases can play a role, depending on the line. Controlled growth, good weight management and sensible physical exercise are also important. EducationTraining should begin early, clearly, calmly and consistently. The Rottweiler is strong, intelligent and usually easy to handle, but needs reliable leadership and very good socialisation. Loving consistency is particularly important. Harsh or unfair methods are unsuitable. Good leash control, impulse control and safe everyday behaviour are very important for this breed.What are the special features of this breed?What makes this breed special is its combination of strength, nerve and versatility. The Rottweiler is not only a guard and family dog, but also a service, rescue, therapy and sporting dog. He has a lot of substance, seriousness and protective instinct, which is why his keeping and training must be particularly responsible. It is precisely this mixture of leadership and strength that makes him special.Suitable for first-time dog owners?Rather only to a limited extent. A very well-informed and consistent first-time dog owner can cope with a Rottweiler if they are intensively involved with socialisation, training and responsibility. Overall, however, the breed is rather demanding because it is powerful, alert and has a strong character. Family dog or not?Yes, in principle the Rottweiler can be a good family dog. With good socialisation and appropriate training, it is often described as friendly, loyal and family-oriented. However, it is best suited to people who can offer it clear leadership, close family ties and a responsible attitude. It is not intended to be an uncomplicated dog for every household.

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.

The PekingeseHistory of the Scottish TerrierThe Pekingese originates from China and is one of the old 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 popular in Europe. Great Britain strongly influenced 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 include a broad, rather flat head, a short muzzle, large dark eyes and an overall lion-like expression. Despite its small size, it should appear dignified, robust and not dainty. Coat: The coat is of medium length, straight and very abundant, without completely covering the body. Particularly striking are the mane around the neck and shoulders, as well as the feathering on the ears, legs, tail and toes. The wide range of acceptable colours makes the breed visually quite versatile. Nature/characterThe Pekingese is considered courageous, self-confident, dignified and often quite independent. It is usually closely bonded to its carers, but is often more reserved than impetuous towards strangers. Its large presence in a small space is typical. It often appears more serious and independent than many other small companion dogs. This character assessment is a technical 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 body structure. HealthHealth is particularly important for the Pekingese. The short head shape can be associated with breathing problems, sensitivity to heat and other everyday stresses. 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. EducationThe Pekingese needs friendly, clear and consistent leadership. It is intelligent, but often also wilful and not simply pleasing. Therefore, despite its small size, it should be taken seriously and given reliable rules. With early socialisation and calm consistency, he 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 demeanour. The Pekinese is not a typical submissive small dog, but often a dignified, courageous and independent companion. It is precisely this mixture of small size and big personality that makes him so special. Suitable for first-time dog owners?Conditional. 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 can be independent, high-maintenance and 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 its independence is respected and it is treated with consideration. It is often particularly well suited to quiet households. It is usually less comfortable in very turbulent families or with boisterous behaviour. 

The Fox TerrierHistoryClassic British hunting terrier. It was developed for work on and near the foxhole and largely shares its roots with the smooth-haired Fox Terrier.AppearanceActive, lively and full of substance in a small space. The standard emphasises balance, strength and an overall very functional appearance. Body shape: Short-backed, well-proportioned, athletic and enduring. The VDH traditionally compares him to a small hunting horse: covering a lot of ground, compact and ready to perform. Coat: The most distinctive feature is the harsh wire coat. It requires considerably more grooming than the smooth-haired Fox Terrier; trimming instead of clipping is usually necessary for a correct coat.Nature/CharacterVery spirited, courageous, alert, intelligent and adventurous. The VDH generally describes Fox Terriers as shrewd, charming and highly passionate about hunting. Grooming The Wirehaired Fox Terrier requires more grooming than the smooth-haired. Regular brushing and professional trimming are important to keep the structure and skin healthy.HealthAs with the smooth-haired, health depends greatly on the breeding line. For the Wirehaired Fox Terrier, it is especially important to pay attention to reputable breeding with traceable health care. In general, issues such as joints, eyes or skin are observed in terriers depending on the line.TrainingHe is clever and learns quickly, but also tests boundaries. Early, fair and consistent training is important, as is good socialisation and management of the hunting instinct.What are the special features of this breed?The Wirehaired Fox Terrier combines the typical terrier character with the distinctive harsh coat. He is often extremely lively, eager to work and not suited to a passive lifestyle.Suitable for first-time dog owners?Rather only to a limited degree. His temperament, hunting instinct and coat care make him more demanding than many other small dogs.Family dog or not?Yes, with the right people. In an active family with clear rules, training and exercise he can be a great companion. Without leadership and activity, he quickly becomes a handful.

Cavalier King Charles Spaniel profileHistory of the Cavalier King Charles SpanielThe Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is a British companion spaniel, bred as a friendly companion dog and closely related to the classic spaniel types from Great Britain.AppearanceBody shape: You get a small, active and graceful dog with a balanced build and gentle expression. Coat The coat is a trademark: silky, longer, with feathering on ears, chest, legs, paws and tail; it should not be trimmed.Temperament and characterThe standard describes the Cavalier as adventurous, affectionate and absolutely fearless, cheerful and friendly, without quarrelsomeness and without a tendency to nervousness.GroomingYou should brush the coat regularly to keep it free of tangles, especially on the ear feathers, chest and "pants". In addition, routine care should be given to ears, claws and teeth, as small companion dogs are often more sensitive in these areas.HealthTwo issues are particularly well known in this breed: myxomatous mitral valve disease (common and typical of the breed) and chiari-like malformation/syringomyelia (a neurological problem that is more common in the breed). When choosing a breeder, make sure that the examinations are transparent and discuss preventive care (heart check/echo, neurological examination in the event of symptoms) with your vet.TrainingThey usually do well with friendly consistency and reward training. Early socialization, calm development of staying alone and a recall suitable for everyday use are useful so that the dog also remains responsive outside.What special features does this breed haveThe Cavalier is often a very affectionate "close-to-you" dog that likes to be everywhere. At the same time, you should take heart health and possible neurological abnormalities seriously and manage stress and weight well.Suitable for first-time dog owners?Often yes: If you train them consistently but in a friendly manner and keep an eye on health issues (especially heart health), the breed is often well suited to first-time owners.Family dog or not?In many cases, yes: Cavaliers are usually considered to be very friendly and fond of children if you train them calmly and the dog gets enough closeness, exercise and clear rules.

The Italian wind chime The history The Italian Greyhound descends from small sighthounds that were already known in ancient Egypt. These dogs arrived in Italy via Greece, where the breed developed in particular. They became most widespread during the Renaissance at the courts of the nobility. To this day, it is considered one of the oldest small sighthound breeds. Appearance Body shape: The Italian Greyhound is a small, very elegant and slender dog with a square shape. Despite its delicate appearance, it embodies all the typical characteristics of a true sighthound. It appears graceful, light-footed and distinguished. Coat: The coat is very short, fine and silky and lies close to the body. It appears smooth and well-groomed, without fringes or undercoat. Typical are the clear, solid colors with only a little white allowed. Nature/character The Italian Greyhound is considered lively, gentle, affectionate and docile. It is very people-oriented and often seeks the closeness of its caregivers. Many representatives of the breed are sensitive, charming and more sensitive than robust. They are usually very affectionate towards familiar people, often playful and attentive. Grooming Grooming is uncomplicated, as the short coat requires little effort. Regular gentle brushing or rubbing is usually sufficient. It is also important to check claws, teeth, ears and skin. Due to the very short coat, you should also pay attention to sensitivity to cold and protect the dog well at low temperatures. Health The Italian Greyhound is generally considered to be a rather delicate breed. Due to its fine build, it can react more sensitively to cold, rough handling and injuries than more robust dogs. Depending on the lineage, problems with teeth, joints or bones can also play a role. Responsible breeding, a safe environment and good weight management are important. Training Training should be gentle, patient and consistent. The Italian Greyhound is sensitive and usually does not respond well to harshness or pressure. It usually learns well with friendly guidance, early socialization and a lot of trust. It is also important to establish basic signals that are safe for everyday use and to carefully build up self-confidence, as some dogs can be somewhat reserved or sensitive. What are the special features of this breed? What is special about this breed is the combination of delicate elegance, genuine sighthound type and a strong affinity with people. The Italian Greyhound is small, but not a typical small dog in the classic sense, but a miniature sighthound with a corresponding physique and movement behavior. It is often very sensitive, loves warmth and closeness and needs to be handled with care. It is precisely its delicacy that makes it special, but also somewhat more demanding in everyday life. Suitable for first-time dog owners? Conditionally. The Italian Greyhound may be suitable for calm, sensitive and well-informed first-time dog owners. However, if you are looking for a robust, uncomplicated dog, this breed is not always ideal. Sensitivity, sensitivity to cold and the fine physique require attention and respectful handling. Family dog or not? Yes, in principle the Italian Greyhound can be a good family dog. It is affectionate, loving and strongly related to its people. However, it is best suited to quiet, considerate households. In families with very small or rambunctious children, special care should be taken to handle them carefully due to their delicate stature.