Icelandic dog

Profile AffenpinscherHistory of the AffenpinscherOriginally a domestic and companion dog from southern Germany; ancestors were already depicted by Albrecht Dürer. First records date back to 1879.AppearanceBody shape: small, strong, compact and rather "square" in appearanceCoat: rough and shaggy-looking, particularly emphasized on the head/shoulders (eyebrows/beard = "monkey face")Nature/characterIntrepid, alert, stubborn and very affectionate; according to the FCI a "pleasant family dog", but can also be temperamental/temperamental at times. He needs a lot of social contact and variety (keeping his head and nose busy helps).GroomingBrushing/de-matting: regularly (otherwise the wiry coat quickly becomes matted, especially on the beard/legs). Trimming/cutting: useful depending on the desired look; many owners have the coat professionally shaped (typical "monkey" head).Everyday life: often wipe the beard briefly after eating/walking - dirt likes to get stuck there (very practical, not a "breed fault").HealthAs with small breeds, these include (depending on the line/individual) Patellar luxation, tracheal collapse, sometimes hip problems and eye problems. Due to the short muzzle, respiratory problems can also be favored in heat/exertion (keyword brachycephalic).EducationSmart, self-confident small dogs: positive reinforcement, clear rules and short, playful sessions are best (otherwise he switches to "no desire"). Early socialization is important so that alertness does not turn into "permanent alarm".What special features does this breed haveUnmistakable "monkey" face (beard/eyebrows) Big character in a small body: courageous, alert, sometimes stubbornly charming Original rat catcher: can show hunting instinct for small animals (training/management is worthwhile).Suitable for first-time dog owners?Often yes - with the right expectations. Some vet/breed information says it is generally suitable for first-time owners because it can be moderately active and very people-oriented. But: stubbornness + alertness + grooming mean that "just walking alongside" rarely works well.Family dog or not?Basically suitable for families if the family has time and the dog is well socialized. (FCI: "pleasant family dog"; VDH: seeks people with lots of time/social contact). It works best with children if they are respectful (no pulling/pushing) - because of their small size, very small children should always be supervised.

The English Setter History of the English SetterThe English Setter is a classic British hunting dog for bird hunting. The term "Belton" was popularized by Edward Lavarack, among others, who strongly influenced the breed.AppearanceElegant, athletic pointing dog with clear lines, deep chest and long, dry head. His gait is expansive and persistent - made for long searches in the field.Body shape: Athletic, symmetrical, light rather than bulky; working lines often somewhat "sportier" and lighter than show lines.Coat: Beautiful, but "high maintenance": Feathering tends to knot (especially ears, armpits, breeches, tail). Regular checks after walks (burrs/grits) are important.Nature/character Usually friendly, gentle, people-oriented and social - yet lively and motivated to hunt. He is often considered pleasant in the house if he gets enough exercise and nose work outside.Grooming Brush/comb out 2-4× per week (more often if coat is thick or changing) Keep a close eye on feathering and ears (felt, burrs) Check paws, ears and belly for burrs after hunting/meadow rounds Health As with many medium to large sporting dogs, hip dysplasia and sometimes eye issues play a role - in the UK, for example, hip and eye examinations are recommended as part of breeding/health programs. Breed clubs also mention issues such as hypothyroidism and atopy/allergies as areas where breeding work is being carried out.EducationThe key is recall + hunt control (impulse control, orientation, tug line, alternative tasks such as retrieving/tracking). Setters are sensitive - clear rules, lots of rewards and consistent training without harshness work best.What are the special features of this breed?"Belton" spotting is typical of the breed and very variable. Very strong nosed and bred for persistent field work - therefore needs real activity (nose work/reporting/mantrailing light etc.). Many are very family-oriented, but do not like to be left alone all the time.Suitable for first-time dog owners?Conditionally yes - if you are keen on training (recall/hunting behavior) and regular exercise. Rather unsuitable for beginners who are looking for a "just goes with the flow" dog.Family dog or not? Yes, often a very good family dog: friendly, social and usually loves children - provided he gets enough exercise, activity and hunting management.

The Collie HistoryThe Long-haired Collie, also known as the Long-haired Scottish Sheepdog, originates from Great Britain and was used as a shepherd and farm dog for a long time. According to the FCI, the Long-haired and Short-haired Collie developed from the same origin, presumably also under the influence of dogs brought to Scotland by the Romans. The Long-haired Collie is considered a refined form of the original working dog of the Scottish shepherds and later became very popular as a companion and family dog.AppearanceBody shape: The Long-haired Collie is harmonious, elegant and powerfully built without appearing clumsy or coarse. His expression is of particular importance and is created by the balanced head shape, the eyes, the ears and the overall dignified appearance. The body should appear capable of working and show flowing, effortless movements.Coat: The coat is one of the most striking characteristics of the breed. It is very dense and consists of a hard, straight outer coat and a soft undercoat. Typical are the lush mane, the ruff and the well-coated tail. The recognised colours are sable and white, tricolour and blue merle, each with the typical Collie markings.Nature/CharacterThe Long-haired Collie is considered friendly, cheerful, sensitive and people-orientated. According to the standard, it should never be nervous or aggressive. Many representatives of the breed are attentive, eager to learn and very closely bonded to their family. This mixture of gentleness, intelligence and alertness makes the Long-haired Collie a very pleasant companion and family dog.GroomingGrooming is necessary on a regular basis, but is usually easy to do. The dense coat should be brushed thoroughly to remove loose hair and prevent matting. The VDH points out that brushing too often is not advisable as too much undercoat is lost. However, daily brushing is advisable during the shedding period. In addition, ears, claws, teeth and paws should be checked regularly.HealthThe Long-haired Collie is generally considered a robust breed, but care should be taken to ensure responsible breeding. Among other things, eye issues and genetic characteristics play a role in the breed, and attention should also be paid to general health care, good weight management and a reputable breeding base. EducationTraining is often successful because the Long-haired Collie is intelligent, sensitive and people-orientated. As a rule, they respond particularly well to friendly, clear and consistent leadership. Harsh methods do not suit this sensitive breed. Early socialisation, loving consistency and mental activity help to make a confident dog that is suitable for everyday life. What are the special features of this breed?What is special about this breed is the combination of elegance, gentleness and a working past. The Long-haired Collie often appears very noble and refined, but at the same time has the roots of a true shepherd dog. Its friendly expression, splendid coat and close bond with people are typical. Many dogs of this breed are sensitive and react strongly to the mood of their environment.Suitable for first-time dog owners?Yes, the Long-haired Collie is often well suited to first-time dog owners. They are usually friendly, eager to learn and co-operative. However, it is important that you take his sensitivity seriously, train him lovingly and consistently and do not underestimate the amount of grooming required for his coat. He usually gets on very well in a calm, reliable home. Family dog or not?Yes, the Long-haired Collie is generally a very good family dog. He likes to live closely with his people, is considered friendly and adaptable and usually feels very comfortable in a harmonious family environment. They are particularly well suited to households that offer them closeness, exercise and friendly, clear leadership.

Beagle profileHistory of the BeagleThe FCI standard describes the Beagle as a running dog from Great Britain, which traditionally hunts in packs and mainly follows the hare hunt over its nose.AppearanceBody shape: You get a strong, compact running dog that looks athletic without appearing coarse. Coat: Short-haired, dense and practical in everyday life, as it sheds dirt and weather well. Temperament and characterThe Beagle is considered cheerful, attentive, intelligent and friendly, with no signs of aggression or fearfulness, although the nose often leads the way in everyday life.GroomingThey usually require little grooming (regular brushing is sufficient), but their ears, claws and teeth should be checked consistently, as the drooping ears can require care. Health Frequently mentioned conditions include hypothyroidism, allergies, epilepsy and back problems such as IVDD; ear problems are also an issue that you should keep an eye on.TrainingThe best way to achieve your goal with Beagles is through calm consistency, clear rules and reward training. Realistically, management often helps with recall (drag line, secured free-running zones) because smells can be a strong motivator.What special features does this breed haveThe Beagle is a pronounced "nose dog" and likes to work persistently on tracks. At the same time, it can have a clear "voice", which is important in noisy living situations.Suitable for first-time dog owners?Yes, often yes, if you have patience, consistency and a desire for nose work and do not expect the recall to be a matter of course.Family dog or not?In many cases, yes: Beagles are usually friendly and social, fit in well with active families, but need clear rules and enough activity to keep them relaxed in everyday life.

The English BulldogHistory of the Scottish TerrierAccording to the FCI, the Bulldog was first explicitly mentioned as such around 1630. It was originally used to herd bulls. After 1835, the current, lower-set type with a shorter foreface developed; from 1860, it was also shown at dog shows. Today it is considered one of the oldest native breeds in Great Britain.AppearanceBody shape: The English Bulldog has a short coat, is rather low-set, broad-shouldered, powerful and compact. Typical features include a large head, a broad chest and a short, blunt muzzle. At the same time, the FCI and VDH expressly emphasise that no exaggeration should be allowed to go so far as to impair mobility, breathing or general function.Coat: The coat is low-maintenance and lies close to the body. It usually only requires occasional brushing. More important than the amount of coat in this breed is the regular checking of the skin and skin folds.Nature/characterThe Bulldog is considered to be attentive, courageous, loyal, reliable and, despite its fierce expression, very affectionate. In everyday life, it is often described as friendly, calm and people-orientated. It is usually not a nervous endurance runner, but rather a cosy companion with a strong character.GroomingThe short coat is uncomplicated. More important are wrinkle care, skin control, weight management and adaptation to weather and stress. You have to be very attentive, especially in hot weather, when excited or under heavy physical strain, because Bulldogs can react sensitively to respiratory stress.HealthThe English Bulldog is one of the more demanding breeds in terms of health. Free breathing, open nostrils, healthy eyes, unproblematic skin folds and a functional tail are particularly important. The British Kennel Club lists breathing problems, turned-in or turned-out eyelids, skin inflammation in folds, too narrow nostrils and problematic tails as particular warning points for the Bulldog. A larger VetCompass evaluation found increased risks in English Bulldogs for skin-fold dermatitis, cherry eye, BOAS and dry eye, among others.EducationThe Bulldog is capable of learning, but often a little stubborn. It needs calm, friendly and consistent training with clear rules and lots of positive reinforcement. Pressure and harshness do not suit them well. With patience, it usually becomes suitable for everyday use, but it is often not a dog for exaggerated obedience drills.What are the special features of this breed?Their most distinctive feature is the mixture of a striking, almost fierce appearance and a mostly very affectionate, gentle nature. At the same time, however, the breed carries an increased health risk due to its body shape. For this very reason, particular care should be taken to ensure that the English Bulldog is bred properly, breathes well, has a moderate build and is normally agile.Suitable for first-time dog owners?Yes, conditionally. In terms of temperament, the English Bulldog can be a good choice for beginners because it is often friendly, people-orientated and not over-excited. Less suitable for beginners, however, are the possible health problems and the necessary management of heat, weight, exercise and skin care. It can be suitable for beginners with realistic expectations and well-chosen breeding.Family dog or not?Yes, basically yes. The breed is now considered a companion dog and is generally considered to be affectionate and family orientated. In a suitable, calm family, it can be a loving companion. It is important that children learn respectful behaviour and that the family shows consideration for the dog's temperature, stress levels and health.

The Airedale TerrierHistory of the Scottish TerrierThe Airedale Terrier comes from Yorkshire (Great Britain) and got its name, among other things, from shows/the "Airedale" reference. It was used in a variety of ways (including as a hunting/utility dog, later also for tracking, in war, in the police/army).AppearanceBody shape: sturdy, muscular, active, appearing ‘compact’ (without being high-legged or elongated).Coat: typical wiry terrier coat with a distinctive beard and ‘leg fringes’, with a dark saddle-coloured patch across the back.Nature/characterSelf-confident, friendly, courageous, intelligent and very alert - not aggressive according to the standard, but fearless.GroomingRelatively high (typical of a terrier): Brushing/combing: approx. 2-3× per week (otherwise felt/tangles, especially beard/legs). Trimming/hand-stripping or clipping: for the "classic" Airedale look usually every 6-8 weeks; hand-stripping often maintains structure/colour better. Everyday life: Ears, claws, teeth should be groomed regularly (as with all breeds).HealthFrequently mentioned topics (not every dog gets this - but it is "typical to keep an eye on"): Hip dysplasia Gastric torsion/GDV (severe form of "bloat") - risk present in larger dogs; favoured by hasty eating or romping immediately after eating, among other things. Underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism) is also described.EducationAn Airedale is clever, but also independent (terrier!). Works best: clear rules + consistent routine plenty of mental exercise (nose work, tricks, retrieving games) fair, positive training methods (and good socialisation at an early age).Special features of the breed"King of Terriers": largest terrier, very versatile, robust. Combination of alertness + athleticism + brains → needs a task, otherwise he looks for one (digging, "rubbish", hunting).Suitable for first-time dog owners?Conditional. It can work if you are really keen on training, leadership and regular grooming. Without activity/consequence, he quickly becomes "boss in the ring" and does terrier things.Family dog or not?Can be a good family dog if it is kept busy and children treat the dog with respect (no roughhousing). Due to his size/power, he is more suitable for families who like to be outside and like rules/structure.

Profile BorzoiHistory of the BorzoiThe Borzoi is a Russian hunting sighthound that was historically bred for sight hunting (including wolves) and is closely associated with the Russian hunting tradition and nobility.AppearanceBody shape: very tall, slender and elegant, with a deep chest and long, narrow silhouette (typical sighthound build). Coat : long, fine coat, which can be smooth or wavy depending on the dog; typical "fringing" on legs, tail and ruff.Nature and characterIn everyday life, many borzoi appear calm, gentle and rather reserved with strangers, but are very quick to react outdoors. Typical of sighthounds, they are often very independent and have a strong instinct to chase. GroomingThe long coat needs regular brushing to prevent matting (especially on the ears, ruff, "pants" and tail). Many borzoi are pleasantly quiet indoors, but need safe opportunities to sprint outside.Health Stomach torsion (GDV) is an important issue in large, deep-chested breeds, so food and rest management after eating is advisable. In addition, sensitivity to medication or anesthesia is often indicated in greyhounds (low body fat percentage).TrainingCalm, fair training with positive reinforcement works best. Recall is often challenging when game or fast-moving objects come into play, which is why a drag lead and fenced-in outdoor runs are realistic in many everyday situations. What special features does this breed haveThe Borzoi is often a "couch potato" indoors, but a high-performance sprinter outdoors. The combination of elegance, sensitivity and hunting instinct makes it special, but requires good management and safe environments. Suitable for first-time dog owners?Only to a limited extent: If you take sighthound needs (safety, hunting instinct, running free only in a controlled manner) seriously and build up training patiently, it can work. It is usually not ideal for people who are looking for an "always-listening" dog without management.Family dog or not?May be suitable if the family is calmly structured and everyone can handle the hunting instinct and size with confidence. In households with very small pets (rabbits, ferrets, free-roaming cats), caution is advised unless you socialize very early and manage consistently.

The EloNature/characterThe breeding goal describes the Elo as friendly, balanced, suitable for children, docile, robust and resilient. It should have a high stimulus threshold, good social behavior, little tendency to bark and as little hunting behavior as possible. Many Elos are people-oriented, adaptable and initially reserved rather than pushy towards strangers. At the same time, the EZFG emphasizes that many Elos are strong-willed and intelligent and therefore need consistent training.GroomingRegular brushing is important, especially when changing their coat. In addition, the ears, teeth, claws and eyes should be checked as usual. The Elo is not a high-performance athlete, but needs daily walks, activity and close family contact.HealthThe EZFG attaches great importance to health checks. Extensive examinations are carried out before breeding approval, including HD x-rays, patellar luxation checks, some ED x-rays and eye examinations. This speaks for a health-oriented breeding approach, but is of course no substitute for careful selection of a reputable breeder and good breeding.EducationThe Elo learns well, but is often not simply "comfortable". The EZFG describes him as intelligent and sometimes strong-willed; especially at a young age he demands consistency. Calm, friendly and clear training with early socialization, firm rules and positive reinforcement works best.What are the special features of this breed?The most special feature is that the Elo was developed specifically as a family dog and the focus in breeding was on temperament and health rather than a strictly uniform conformation. In addition, "Elo®" is protected by trademark law and linked to EZFG breeding. In a way, the Elo is therefore less a classic FCI breed and more a controlled breeding project with its own standard.Suitable for first-time dog owners?Yes, often - but not automatically. The Elo is considered friendly and adaptable and is often described as suitable for beginners. At the same time, the EZFG points out that many Elos are strong-willed and intelligent and need consistent guidance, especially when they are young. They are often well suited to motivated beginners with a willingness to learn.Family dog or not?Yes, very clearly intended as a family dog. This is exactly what the Elo was originally bred for: as a child-friendly, friendly, strong-nerved and socially compatible companion. In a loving and consistent attitude suitable for everyday life, it can be a very good family dog.

The Lagotto Romagnolo History of the Lagotto RomagnoloThe Lagotto Romagnolo is an old Italian water dog from Romagna. It was originally used as a water retriever in the marshy areas around Comacchio and Ravenna. When the marshes were drained and turned into farmland, its role changed. From then on, it was mainly used for truffle hunting in the plains and hills of Romagna. It is precisely this development that has shaped the breed to this day.AppearanceBody shape: The Lagotto Romagnolo is a small to medium sized, well-proportioned and strongly built dog with a rustic appearance. Its body is almost square and overall it appears robust, capable of working and agile.Coat: The coat is one of the most striking characteristics of the breed. It is dense, woolly and strongly curled, with a visible undercoat. It must not appear groomed or poodle-like, but should emphasize the natural, rustic impression of the breed.Nature/characterThe Lagotto Romagnolo is considered to be attentive, amiable, alert and closely bonded to its owner. It is obedient, undemanding and generally easy to train. Typical is his excellent sense of smell, which makes him a very good truffle dog. Through targeted selection, his hunting instinct has been modified so that he is distracted as little as possible by the scent of game when working.GroomingThe coat needs regular grooming, even if the breed does not shed much. Curly, thick hair can quickly become matted if it is not brushed, checked and trimmed at appropriate intervals. It is also important to check ears, claws, teeth and paws. Particular care should be taken around the ears and in dense areas of fur.HealthThe Lagotto Romagnolo is generally considered to be a robust and hard-working breed. Nevertheless, depending on the line, health issues such as hip dysplasia, patellar luxation, juvenile epilepsy or lysosomal storage disease can play a role. Responsible breeding with appropriate health examinations is therefore particularly important.TrainingTraining is often successful because the Lagotto Romagnolo is intelligent, people-oriented and eager to work. However, it not only needs exercise, but above all nose work and mental exercise. Friendly, clear and consistent leadership is important. With early socialization and meaningful activity, the breed usually develops into a very pleasant companion. What special features does this breed have?The most special feature is its specialization as a truffle dog. The Lagotto Romagnolo is one of the best-known dogs for truffle hunting and has an excellent sense of smell, concentration and willingness to work. At the same time, it is a former water dog, which makes its history within FCI Group 8 special. In addition, his distinctive, densely curled coat makes him look very distinctive.Suitable for first-time dog owners?Yes, in principle the Lagotto Romagnolo can be suitable for committed first-time dog owners. They are usually cooperative, people-oriented and eager to learn. However, you should not underestimate their need for activity, nose work and grooming. If you have the time for training and meaningful exercise, this breed can get along very well. Family dog or not?Yes, the Lagotto Romagnolo can be a very good family dog. They are generally friendly, affectionate and close to their humans. They fit particularly well into active households that offer them mental tasks in addition to everyday life and exercise. With appropriate exercise and loving consistency, he is usually a pleasant family dog suitable for everyday life.

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.

Small Poodle History of the Scottish Terrier The poodle is one of the old European dog breeds and was originally used as a water dog. It was strongly characterised 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 Toy Poodle is harmoniously, elegantly and well-proportioned. It appears neither clumsy nor fragile, but lively, proud and agile. Typical features include a rather square overall appearance, a fine but not weak bone structure, and a springy, light gait. Coat: The coat is one of the breed’s most striking features. It is dense, fine and tightly curled or formed into cords. The Toy Poodle usually sheds very little, but requires regular and careful grooming. Nature/character The small poodle is considered to be very intelligent, attentive, playful and people-orientated. It learns quickly, enjoys working with its people and is 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 owners. Grooming Grooming is more time-consuming than many 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 needs to be actively removed. Health The small poodle is generally regarded as 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. Education The small poodle is generally very easy to train. It learns quickly, is attentive and often wants to work closely with its human. It responds best to friendly, clear and consistent training. Harsh methods are unsuitable because many Poodles react sensitively. With early socialisation, 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, co-operative 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 him to be a very pleasant beginner's dog. Family dog or not? Yes, the small poodle is generally a very good family dog. It is usually friendly, playful and closely bonded to its humans. They generally feel very comfortable in a family with loving consistency, sufficient activity and respectful behaviour. Due to its adaptability, it often suits both active families and quieter households.

The WhippetHistoryThe Whippet is a British sighthound breed. It was bred as a fast, smaller sight hunter and has been established as an independent breed since the 19th century; a first standard was established in 1891.AppearanceThe Whippet is a medium-sized, elegant, very athletic dog. The standard describes it as a balanced combination of muscular power and strength with elegance and grace, built for speed and performance. Body shape: Slender, deep-chested, with tucked-up belly line, long-appearing back and characteristic arch over the loin; overall sprinter-like and very agile. Coat: Short, fine, smooth lying and easy to care for.Nature/CharacterThe FCI standard describes the Whippet as the ideal companion, very adaptable in both home and sporting environments, friendly, affectionate and even-tempered. At the same time, it remains a sight hunter with a pronounced responsiveness to moving stimuli.GroomingThe grooming effort is low: regular brushing, checking claws, teeth, and ears is usually sufficient. Due to its very short coat, the Whippet is more sensitive to cold than many other breeds. This is a practical consequence of the coat structure and the very limited hair.HealthThe FCI generally emphasises that only functionally and clinically healthy dogs should be used for breeding. With the Whippet, it is also important to pay attention to responsible breeding, good weight management and appropriate protection in cold or rough conditions. The standard itself does not contain a detailed list of diseases.TrainingWhippets are usually sensitive and learn well, but often respond sensitively to pressure. Calm consistency, early socialisation and reliable recall training work best. Due to their prey and sighting drive, free running is not always possible everywhere without problems.What special features does this breed have?Particularly noteworthy are the enormous sprinting speed, the typical sighthound body, the very fine coat and the contrast between fast and alert outdoors and often calm and cuddly indoors. The VDH describes the Whippet as a "sprinter with a sense of cuddling", which describes the breed quite well.Suitable for first-time dog owners?Yes, often suitable with some reservations. A Whippet can be a good fit for beginners if they want a sensitive, rather gentle dog and are prepared to take recall, safety off-lead and sighthound specifics seriously. It is usually easier to handle in everyday life than many very driven working breeds, but it is not a dog that should be underestimated because of its calm nature.Family dog or not?Yes, in many cases a good family dog. The standard calls it friendly, affectionate and even-tempered; at the same time, it is considered adaptable in the home environment. In calm to normally active families it often fits very well as long as care is taken to ensure sensitive handling, safe exercise and opportunities to withdraw.