Akita

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.

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 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 Irish Setter History The Irish Setter, or more precisely the Irish Red Setter, was bred in Ireland as a hunting dog for bird hunting. The breed originated from the Irish Red and White Setter and solid red dogs and was already clearly recognisable as a separate type in the 18th century. The Irish Red Setter Club was founded in 1882 and published a breed standard in 1886; later, field trials and working guidelines were also established. Appearance Body shape: The Irish Setter is an elegant, athletic and well-balanced dog with a lean, athletic build. It appears capable, agile and enduring, without appearing heavy or coarse. Typical features include a deep chest, good musculature and an overall harmonious, racy appearance. Coat: The coat is one of the breed’s most striking features. It is red to chestnut, smooth to slightly wavy and lies close to the body. On the ears, chest, belly, legs and tail, it displays distinct, silky feathering. Nature/character The Irish Setter is considered to be friendly, intelligent, lively and very people orientated. He is alert, spirited and full of drive, but at the same time usually affectionate and closely attached to his family. His cheerful, open nature is typical. Due to his hunting disposition, he brings a lot of energy, joy of movement and often also a clear will to track and search. Grooming Grooming is generally manageable, but should be done regularly. The silky feathering on the ears, chest, belly, legs and tail in particular must be brushed to prevent matting. In addition, ears, paws, claws and teeth should be checked, especially after walks in tall grass, woods or fields. Health The Irish Setter is generally regarded as an active and powerful breed, but certain health problems can occur. These include hip dysplasia and various eye diseases such as progressive retinal atrophy. As with other athletic, larger dogs, responsible breeding, a healthy body weight and sensibly monitored growth are also important. Education Training should be friendly, clear and consistent. The Irish Setter is smart and eager to learn, but also temperamental and easily distracted, especially when game odours or movement stimuli come into play. Early socialisation, recall training and a good balance of exercise, nose work and mental exercise are particularly important. Harsh methods do not suit this sensitive, people-orientated breed.  What are the special features of this breed? What is special about the Irish Setter is the combination of elegance, passion for hunting and a cheerful temperament. It is not a cosy companion dog, but an enduring, very active dog with a real working disposition. At the same time, he is often extremely charming, playful and friendly towards people. His bright red coat also makes him instantly recognisable. Suitable for first-time dog owners? Conditional. A committed first-time dog owner can get on well with an Irish Setter if there is enough time, willingness to exercise and willingness to learn. However, the breed is not always easy because it needs a lot of exercise, consistent training and good management of the hunting instinct. If you are looking for a calm, undemanding beginner's dog, an Irish Setter is usually not the best choice. Family dog or not? Yes, in principle the Irish Setter can be a very good family dog. He is usually friendly, affectionate and playful and often seeks to be close to his humans. They are best suited to active families who spend a lot of time outdoors and enjoy keeping a lively and active dog busy. Without sufficient exercise and activity, he often becomes unbalanced in everyday life.

The Afghan HoundHistory of the Afghan SighthoundVery old sighthound breed from Afghanistan, originally used for hunting (sight hunters) in mountainous/rough regions; in Europe the Afghan Hound became particularly well known and further established in the early 20th century.AppearanceBody shape: large, elegant, tall, strong and athletic with an "aristocratic" expression; the ring-shaped curved tail is also typical.Coatvery long and fine, with a distinctive "hairstyle" (ears/legs very hairy), plus often a shorter "saddle" on the back.Temperament/characterDistant and dignified towards strangers, loyal to the family, sensitive and independent ("not always wanting to please").GroomingVery high. Regular (often daily) brushing/de-matting and frequent bathing are realistic, otherwise the fine hair will quickly become matted. Plus: ear care (long ears increase the risk of moisture/dirt).HealthFrequently mentioned topics: Hip dysplasia, cataract/eye problems, hypothyroidism. Typical for sighthounds: More sensitive to anesthesia (low body fat percentage) and increased risk of bloat/gastric torsion due to deep chest.TrainingConsistent, calm leadership and positive reinforcement are important; recall/leash walking can be challenging due to hunting instinct/independence (safety: fenced areas, drag line).Special features of the breedExtremely striking, long silky coat (grooming is the "dealbreaker" no. 1). Sprinter at heart: needs safe opportunities to race (e.g. sighthound sport/lure coursing), otherwise he quickly becomes unbalanced. Sensitive + independent: not the "always-listening" dog.Suitable for first-time dog ownersRather limited. If you have the time/desire for a lot of grooming and approach training in a patient, structured and sighthound-friendly way, it can work - but overall the breed is often recommended for more experienced owners.Family dog or not?Yes, but with restrictions: Often very good with their own family, yet rather sensitive and not "robust". Depending on the dog/family routine, it can be more difficult with (small, noisy) children; calm handling and places to retreat to are important.

Profile Bolonka ZwetnaHistory of the Bolonka ZwetnaThe Bolonka Zwetna is a small companion dog from Russia. According to the VDH, the first standard was created and confirmed in the 1960s, after which the breed continued to develop as a colored lapdog type.AppearanceBody shape: You will get a small, compact dog that looks rather square and should be sturdily built despite its miniature size. Coat: The long coat falls in waves or curls and is the most striking feature of the breed.Nature and characterMany Bolonkas are cheerful, affectionate and very people-oriented. They often don't like to be left alone, but they like to be everywhere in everyday life.GroomingYou should brush and comb the coat regularly to prevent it from matting, especially on the ears, armpits, belly and "pants". A regular grooming routine is more important than infrequent "big jobs".HealthAs a small breed, the Bolonka is often considered to be quite robust, but breed-typical issues such as patellar problems (patella) and tartar in small dogs are something you should keep an eye on (preventive breeding and dental care help).TrainingThey usually do well with friendly consistency and reward training. Because Bolonkas are very people-oriented, bonding often works easily, but early training for staying alone and everyday calmness is important.What special features does this breed haveThe Bolonka is a typical companion dog: small, likes to be close to its body and is often very focused on its owner. This makes it a great everyday partner, but can lead to problems when left alone without training.Suitable for first-time dog owners?Often yes, if you allow time for closeness, grooming and consistent basic training. It is particularly important that you clearly establish topics such as staying alone, leash training and rules in the household right from the start.Family dog or not?As a family dog, it can be a good fit if children are calm and considerate with a small dog. In very wild households, management is important so that the dog is not overwhelmed.

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 Hovawart dog History of the Scottish TerrierThe Hovawart is an old German working dog breed. Its name is derived from the Middle High German words for court and guard and already describes its original task as a guard and protection dog for house and yard. Modern pure breeding began in 1922 with dogs of a similar type from farms, later crossed with German Shepherds, Newfoundlanders and Leonbergers, among others. The FCI lists Germany as the country of origin of the breed. AppearanceBody shape: The Hovawart is a sturdy, medium-sized to large, slightly elongated dog with a harmonious and robust build. It appears alert, agile and self-assured, without looking clumsy. Coat: The coat is long, dense and lies close to the body for the most part. It is longer on the chest, belly, backs of the forelegs, thighs and tail, forming distinct feathering in these areas. The three recognised colour varieties are blond, black and black and tan. Nature/characterThe Hovawart is considered to be alert, self-confident, intelligent and closely attached to its family. It is not a nervous permanent barker, but has a pronounced protective and territorial behaviour. In everyday life, he is often loyal, sensitive and eager to learn, but needs people who give him security and clear guidance. Its close bond with its carers is also typical. GroomingThe coat is generally considered to be quite low-maintenance, although it is long. Regular brushing is important, especially when the coat changes and in areas that tend to become matted, such as the armpits or trousers. Ears, claws and teeth should also be checked. HealthThe Hovawart is generally considered a robust breed, but care should be taken to ensure responsible breeding with health checks. It is particularly important to check for hip dysplasia, and eye examinations also play a role in breeding. As with large, active dogs, a suitable weight, controlled growth and joint-friendly exercise at a young age are also important. EducationThe training of a Hovawart should start early and be consistent, calm and fair. He is smart and eager to work, but also tests boundaries and likes to act independently. Varied training, mental exercise and clear, reliable leadership are crucial. Harsh methods are unsuitable because many Hovawarts react sensitively and need a real partnership. What are the special features of this breed?The Hovawart has a mixture of alertness, independence, sensitivity and a high willingness to work. It is often late to mature and develops mentally more slowly than some other breeds, which requires patience in training. Added to this is his clear territorial behaviour. He wants to have tasks, be close to his humans and not just run along. It is precisely this combination of protective instinct, independence and close family ties that makes this breed so special. Suitable for first-time dog owners?Rather only conditionally. A committed, well-informed first-time dog owner can get on well with a Hovawart with plenty of support, dog training and consistency. Overall, however, the breed is rather demanding because it is powerful, independent, alert and often demanding at a young age. Without experience or clear leadership, a Hovawart can quickly take on too much responsibility itself. Family dog or not?Yes, in principle the Hovawart can be a very good family dog. He is loyal, people-orientated and usually feels most at home when he is closely involved in family life. At the same time, it is not an uncomplicated side dog. It is particularly suited to active families with space, time and the willingness to devote a lot of time to training and exercise.

Profile Chow-Chow / Chow ChowHistory of the Chow ChowAccording to the FCI standard, the Chow Chow originates from China, where it was used as a guard dog and also for hunting. It has been known there for over 2000 years and only arrived relatively late (around 1800) in other countries, including England.AppearanceBody shape: You get a compact, short coupled, well-balanced dog with a lion-like appearance and a proud and dignified stance. The tail carried high over the back and the typical gait are also characteristic. Coat: The coat is very dense and weatherproof, either as a rough-haired or smooth-haired variety. Around the neck, it is often particularly luxuriant in the rough-haired type and looks like a mane.Temperament and characterThe Chow Chow is described in the standard as a calm, very alert dog, headstrong, loyal and at the same time rather reserved. This means that he often bonds strongly, but is not necessarily the "jump on everyone and be happy" type.GroomingYou should brush the dense coat regularly so that undercoat and knots do not become a problem, especially when changing coats. In summer, good heat management is important because a lot of fur can be a burden in the heat.HealthFrequently mentioned issues are eye problems such as entropion (curled eyelid), hip dysplasia and hypothyroidism. When choosing a breeder, make sure that the examinations are transparent and discuss preventive care (eyes, hips, thyroid) with your vet at an early stage.TrainingThe best way to train your dog is with calm consistency, clear rules and respectful treatment. Because the Chow Chow is independent, it needs reliable everyday rituals early on, good socialization and training that builds cooperation rather than pressure.What special features does this breed haveThe lion-like appearance, the very dense undercoat and the bluish-black tongue are typical breed characteristics. In everyday life, he is often calm, but attentive and not "submissive", which makes leadership through clarity and trust particularly important.Suitable for first-time dog owners?Rather limited: If you familiarize yourself well, remain consistent and build up socialization and rules suitable for everyday life properly from the start, it can work. If you expect a dog that wants to please everyone by itself and always follows immediately, the breed is often less suitable.Family dog or not?This can be a good fit if the family is calmly structured and everyone respects the reserved character. In very turbulent households, management is important so that the dog has privacy, calm and clear boundaries.

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.