The Dog Encyclopedia

THE DEFINITIVE VISUAL GUIDE



THE

DOG

ENCYCLOPEDIA



THE

DOG

ENCYCLOPEDIA

LONDON, NEW YORK, MELBOURNE, CONTENTS
MUNICH, AND DELHI
1INTRODUCTION 8
DORLING KINDERSLEY TO DOGS 10
Senior Editor Kathryn Hennessy 12
Project Art Editor Amy Orsborne Evolution of the dog 14
Editorial Assistant Alexandra Beeden Skeleton and muscle 16
US Senior Editor Rebecca Warren Senses 18
US Editors Kate Johnsen, Margaret Parrish Circulatory and digestive systems 20
Urinary, reproductive, and hormonal systems 22
Jacket Designer Laura Brim Skin and coat 24
Jacket Editor Manisha Majithia Dogs in religion, myth, and culture
Jacket Design Development Manager Sophia Tampakopoulos Dogs in art and advertising 28
Producer, Pre-Production Adam Stoneham Dogs in sports and service 38
98
Producer Gemma Sharpe 2 GUIDE TO 124
Photographer Tracy Morgan BREEDS 138
Managing Art Editor Karen Self 184
Managing Editor Esther Ripley Primitive dogs 220
Working dogs 264
Publisher Sarah Larter Spitz-type dogs 288
Art Director Phil Ormerod Sight hounds
Associate Publishing Director Liz Wheeler Scent hounds
Publishing Director Jonathan Metcalf Terriers
Gundogs
Consultant Editor Kim Dennis-Bryan Companion dogs
Contributors Ann Baggaley, Katie John Crossbreeds

DK INDIA
Senior Editor Monica Saigal
Senior Art Editors Chhaya Sajwan, Ranjita Bhattacharji
Editors Antara Moitra, Suparna Sengupta
Art Editors Devan Das, Supriya Mahajan, Pooja Pawwar, Pooja Pipil, Neha
Sharma, Priyanka Singh, Amit Varma
Assistant Editor Archana Ramachandran
Assistant Art Editors Payal Rosalind Malik, Ankita Mukherjee,
Astha Singh, Dhirendra Singh
Managing Editor Pakshalika Jayaprakash
Managing Art Editor Arunesh Talapatra
Senior DTP Designer Jagtar Singh
DTP Designers Arvind Kumar, Sachin Singh, Mohammad Usman, Tanveer

Abbas Zaidi
Pre-production Manager Balwant Singh
Picture Research Surya Sankash Sarangi

First American Edition, 2013
Published in the United States by DK Publishing, 375 Hudson Street,

New York, New York 10014

10 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1
001 – 185332 – Jul/13

Copyright © 2013 Dorling Kindersley Limited
All rights reserved

Without limiting the rights under copyright reserved above, no part of this
publication may be reproduced, stored in or introduced into a retrieval system, or
transmitted, in any form, or by any means (electronic, mechanical, photocopying,
recording, or otherwise), without the prior written permission of both the copyright

owner and the above publisher of this book.

Published in Great Britain by Dorling Kindersley Limited.
A catalog record for this book is available from the Library of Congress.

ISBN: 978-1-4654-0844-0

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Disclaimer

Every effort has been made to ensure that the information in this book is accurate.
Neither the publishers or the authors accept any legal responsibility for any personal
injury or injuries to dogs or other damage or loss arising from the undertaking of any

of the activities or exercises presented in this book, or from the reliance on any
advice in this book. If your dog is ill or has behavioral problems, please seek the

advice of a qualified professional, such as a vet or behavioral expert.

3 CARE AND 304
TRAINING 306
308
Becoming a dog owner 310
Bringing your dog home 312
At home and away 314
A balanced diet 316
Changing diets 318
Monitoring feeding levels 320
Exercise 322
Grooming 324
Grooming checks 330
Being in charge 332
Basic training 334
Behavioral problems 336
Visiting the vet 338
Signs of health 340
Inherited disorders 342
Parasites 346
Nursing a sick dog
First aid 348
Breeding 350
360
GLOSSARY
INDEX
ACKNOWLEDGMENTS



INTRODUCTION CHAPTER 1
TO DOGS

ALL ABOUT DOGS | EVOLUTION OF THE DOG

Evolution of the dog

There are an estimated 500 million domestic dogs worldwide, and all of them are related. At the
base of their evolutionary tree stands the gray wolf, from which every type and breed of dog has
descended. As geneticists have discovered, in terms of DNA, the difference between wolf and
dog is infinitesimal. While natural selection has produced some of the changes that make one
type of dog different from another, the effect of human influence has been far greater.
It could be said that of the hundreds of modern dogs known today, all of them are man-made.

DAWN OF THE DOG that a tame wolf with a sharp nose and a Working together
The history of the dog, and its transformation strong killing instinct would be an asset as a Wolves live in packs cooperating with one another to hunt
from wolf to domestic companion, goes back hunting companion, the human and rear their young. This pack lifestyle made it relatively
deep in prehistory, to the settlements of early and dog partnership was born. If, as easy for early humans to domesticate them. Instead of
hunter-gatherer peoples. In these primitive seems likely, the most promising animals were bonding with other wolves, selected wolf cubs happily
communities, wolves would scavenge among picked out for such use, this would adapted to living with a group of people.
the litter around the camp site and were a also have been the very beginning of a
useful source of hides and meat. The wolves selection process for desirable traits that recently the earliest of these remains was
might also, inadvertently, raise the alarm still continues among dog breeders today. dated at approximately 14,000 years old,
should an intruder or outsider approach the but the results of research into a fossilized
camp. Just why people first brought wolves The domestication of wolves is not likely to canine skull found in Siberia, published
into the domestic circle can perhaps be partly have occurred as an isolated incident, but in 2011, suggest that dogs were already
explained by the fact that humans in general repeatedly at different times and in widely domesticated as long as 30,000 years ago.
seem programmed to adopt animals, either as separated regions. Archeological evidence of
playmates or status symbols. Possibly dogs buried alongside humans has turned up Whenever and wherever it happened,
a small furry wolf cub appealed to our in areas as far apart as the Middle East as wolves were domesticated, both their
ancestors as much as it would to anyone (thought to be possibly one of the original appearance and temperament began to
today. Being social animals, wolves that sites of domestication), China, Germany, change. New types of canid emerged,
became campside hangers-on may have Scandinavia, and North America. Until and their diversity was increased by
readily made the transition between bonding crossbreeding between different dog
with their pack and bonding with humans, Archeological evidence populations. Depending on availability
particularly if there were advantages in terms Evidence, such as these 12,000-year-old skeletal of food and climatic conditions, some
of food and shelter. remains of a human and a dog (top right) found hunter-gatherer tribes were isolated for
in Israel, suggests that dogs may have been among generations, but others were migratory,
As hunters themselves, early people would the first animals to be domesticated. which meant that the dogs following at their
have been familiar with the behavior of heels met and mated with others outside
wolves and appreciative of their persistence
and skill when working as a team to track and
bring down prey. Once tribespeople realized

8

EVOLUTION OF THE DOG

RELATIONSHIPS OF THE DOG FAMILY (CANIDS)

FOX ETHIOPIAN WOLF GOLDEN JACKAL COYOTE GRAY WOLF DOG

This diagram shows the dog’s relationship to other canids based on
genetic evidence. The dog and the gray wolf are the most closely
related ancestrally because their DNA is most similar and they share
many characteristics. The further away from the dog and the wolf
each canid is reflects the fewer similarities in their shared DNA.

their “clan.” These early exchanges of every imaginable point, from the set of the breed and another have produced a range of
traits and characters laid the foundation ears on a spaniel to the distribution of spots novelty dogs that mix and match inherited
for the development of many different types on a Dalmatian (see p.286). characteristics, such as the curly coat of
of dog, but thousands of years were still one parent and the biddable temperament
to pass before anything like true breeds The explosion in the variety of domestic of the other.
were established. dogs has taken place over a relatively short
time, especially from the 20th century Dogs have come a long way in appearance
MODERN BREEDS onward. Modern dogs may sometimes seem and character since they were wolves, and
Initially people began to develop distinct in danger of becoming fashion accessories, but while people continue to desire the company
types of dog for particular jobs—hounds human interference has caused other, greater of canines, they are also likely to want to go
to hunt game, mastiffs to guard property, concerns. Creating the “right” look has in on changing them. In some breeds, most
and shepherd dogs to herd livestock. They some breeds been to the detriment of the dog’s obviously in dogs such as the husky types
selectively bred these dogs to be physically health. Flattened noses that cause breathing and the German Shepherd (see p.42),
and temperamentally suited for their role— problems, too-large heads in puppies leading wolflike characteristics still linger, in others
keen noses for hunting, long legs for racing, to whelping difficulties, and over-long backs the original template has been altered out of
strength and stamina for hard outdoor combined with spinal disorders are just some all recognition. An early hunter confronted
work, and a strong protective instinct in of the built-in faults that responsible breeders with, say, a Pekingese (see p.270), would
dogs needed for guard duties. Later came now seek to mitigate. In the most recent probably not realize at first that he was
the terriers and companion dogs. When experiments, planned crosses between one looking at a dog.
humans better understood the laws of
inheritance, and were able to manipulate
them, the process of change was greatly
accelerated. Then once dogs started to be
kept more for companionship and as pets
than for practical purposes, their appearance
began to take precedence over function.
Since the founding of the first breed societies
in the late 19th century, rigorous standards
have been compiled for pedigree dogs.
These set out the ideal type, color, and
conformation for each breed, and cover

Varying looks
Many types of dog were established by the 1800s,
including the Saint Bernard and English Toy Spaniel seen
in this illustration. Until breed standards were established,
however, types continued to change.

9

INTRODUCTION TO DOGS | SKELETON AND MUSCLE

Skeleton and muscle

All mammals have a skeleton that is stabilized and given mobility by ligaments, tendons, and
muscles. In dogs, this system evolved to serve their ancestral needs as fast-running carnivores.
However, once domesticated, humans created different dogs for different tasks and in doing so
altered their skeletons, too. Although some changes, such as dwarfism, result naturally from
mutations, deliberate selection has created most of the variety seen in modern breeds today.

SPECIALIZED SKELETON As a quadruped, a dog has four weight- small bones in the dog’s wrist joint are fused
Speed and agility are of prime importance bearing legs. The forelegs have no bony together, restricting rotation of the foot and
for a predator. The prey sets the pace and attachment, like the human collarbone minimizing the likelihood of injury. For a
direction of the chase and, for a successful (clavicle), and are connected to the body only hunter, this is important, since injury will
outcome, a hunting dog has to be ready to by muscles. This allows them to slide back reduce hunting success and in serious cases
move fast and turn within a split second. and forth over the rib cage, increasing stride would lead to starvation.
length. The long bones of the forelegs—the
Much of a dog’s speed relies on an radius and ulna—fit tightly together, unlike Dogs have a characteristic “tiptoe” gait.
extremely flexible spine, which bends and the equivalent bones in the human forearm. There are four weight-bearing toes on each
stretches easily with every stride. The This is an essential adaptation in an animal foot and a vestigial dewclaw on the inside of
powerful hindquarters provide forward that may need to change direction rapidly
propulsion, while adaptations to the forelegs in pursuit of prey. The tight fit prevents
increase stride length. Traction is created by rotation of the bones and reduces the risk
the nonretractile claws, which act like the of fracture. For extra stability, some of the
running spikes on an athlete’s shoes.

Lumbar vertebrae with Thoracic vertebrae Orbit (eye socket)
forward-projecting lateral articulate with ribs opens posteriorly
to allow for powerful
spines that aid flexibility jaw muscles
Jaw articulation with
Pelvis articulated to the restricted sideways
sacrum (three fused movement

vertebrae) of the spine Neck (cervical)
vertebrae have wide
Flexible tail range of movement
(coccygeal)
Scapula lacks bony
vertebrae attachment to body

Hock (heel) raised Rib cage protects
off the ground heart and lungs

Patella Ulna same length
as radius

Nonretractile claws prevent Scaphoid and Skeleton
slipping when running lunar bones of A dog’s shape is determined
wrist are fused by its skeleton, which can be
altered by selective breeding,
creating dogs of many shapes
and sizes. This dog skeleton is
typical of a medium-sized dog
with a mesaticephalic skull.

10

SKELETON AND MUSCLE

SKULL SHAPES DOLICHOCEPHALIC HEAD MESATICEPHALIC HEAD BRACHYCEPHALIC HEAD
(SALUKI) (GERMAN SHORTHAIRED POINTER) (BULLDOG)
The canine skull has three basic variations:
dolichocephalic (long and narrow); mesaticephalic
(wolflike, being equally proportioned in terms of
cranium width and length of nasal cavity); and
brachycephalic (short and broad). The diversity
of skull shapes in the domestic dog is the result
of changes made to the original canine template
by selective breeding.

each front leg, equivalent to the human for lifting and carrying the kill. Muscles that open jaw
thumb. However, in a few dogs, such as the The dog also makes use of more subtle
Tibetan Mastiff (see p.80) there are dewclaws muscle power than humans do. Relying Muscular sling
on the hind feet, too, while in others, such as a good deal on body language to supports and
the Great Pyrenees (see p.78), there are double communicate with each other, a dog stabilizes foreleg
dewclaws. The occurrence of extra toes is constantly twitches with muscle activity: from below
known as polydactyly. curling a lip in a snarl, pricking up ears
to show attention, or wagging a tail as
Bone size can be manipulated relatively a sign of welcome or conciliation.
easily by selective breeding, so humans have
been able to alter the proportions of the Neck muscles control head
canine skeleton to create miniature or movements, which are important
outsize versions of dogs, from Chihuahuas in visual and auditory orientation,
(see p.282) to Great Danes (see p.96). and for grooming and predation
Significant changes have also been made to
the shape of the canine skull (see box above).

MUSCLE POWER Muscles in the tail Powerful upper foreleg
A dog’s limbs are controlled mainly by allow movement of the muscles extend and
muscles in their upper parts. The lower legs retract leg
have more tendons than muscles, which tip or of the entire
saves weight and reduces energy length—for example, Forearm muscles
expenditure. Very fast dogs, such as stabilize, protect,
Greyhounds (see p.126), have a high when it is wagged support, and control
proportion of what are known as “fast” the paws and toes
twitch muscle fibers, which, because of the Achilles tendon is Thin muscle
way they obtain their energy, allow brief most prominent layer covers
bursts of great speed; in dogs built for tendon on abdomen
endurance, like huskies and retrievers, dog’s body
“slow” twitch fibers that keep them going Lower limbs have little
longer are more numerous. muscle mass, only tendons
and ligaments
A hunting dog not only needs to outrun
prey, but to seize and hold it. As in all
carnivores, the canine skull is modified for
the attachment of massive muscles that
operate the jaw and help to prevent it from
moving sideways, possibly even dislocating,
in the effort to grip a struggling victim.
Large neck muscles provide the strength

Muscles
All dogs have the same muscles. They allow a dog to move
and also play an important part in communication. Some
of the limb muscles act in antagonistic pairs, one
extending the leg and the other retracting it.

11

INTRODUCTION TO DOGS | SENSES

Senses

Dogs are very alert to their surroundings and highly responsive to sensory information. They
look and listen to interpret their surroundings, just as we do. Although we see things with
greater clarity—except at night, when canine vision is an advantage—dogs hear much more
and possess a superbly developed sense of smell. A dog’s nose is his best asset and he relies on
it to provide him with a detailed account of the world.

SIGHT distance vision. They are particularly quick
Although dogs cannot see the range of color to pick up movement and can even detect
that humans can, they do see some colors. lameness, a useful adaptation in a predatory
This limited range is because a dog only animal seeking an easy kill. Canines see best
has two types of color-responsive cells in the low light of dawn and dusk—prime
(dichromatic vision) in the retina—the times for hunting in the wild. With less acute
light-sensitive layer at the back of the eye— close vision, a dog relies more on scent,
instead of three (trichromatic vision) as or touch through his sensitive whiskers,
humans have. The canine world is viewed to investigate nearby objects.
in shades of gray, blue, and yellow, without
red, orange, or green—in much the same way Cerebrum deals with
as a person with red-green color-blindness. sensory information
Dogs do, however, have excellent long-

EAR SHAPES Thalamus deals with
alertness and sleep, in
addition to conveying
information on touch,
pain, sight, and hearing

Pineal gland is situated
at the base of the brain and
coordinates the dog’s body clock

ERECT CANDLE-FLAME Pituitary gland produces
several hormones and also
(ALASKAN MALAMUTE) (ENGLISH TOY TERRIER) serves as a link between the
nervous system and other
ROSE BUTTON
(GREYHOUND) (PUG) endocrine glands

DROP PENDANT Hypothalamus
(BROHOLMER) (BLOODHOUND) regulates eating

Ear types and drinking
There are three main types of ear—erect (top row), and controls
semierect (middle row), and drop (bottom row)—but pituitary gland
each includes a variety of different forms. Ears strongly
influence a dog’s overall appearance and so in many Cerebellum
breeds the correct set, shape, and carriage of the ears controls
is carefully detailed in their respective breed standards.
movement

Some areas of the
brain stem control

salivation, others
relay information
about hearing, taste,

and balance

Spinal cord connects
with the peripheral
nervous system
network that carries
sensory information

over the entire body

12

SENSES

HEARING Even more remarkable, dogs can detect and Choroid membrane Lachrymal gland
Puppies are born deaf, but as dogs mature interpret who or what has crossed their path prevents reflection of produces tears
they develop a sense of hearing that is about before, which is why they are so good at light within the eye and
four times as acute as ours. They can hear tracking. With training, dogs can be taught carries nutrients and Pupil controls
sounds too low or too high in pitch to be to sniff out drugs and even detect disease. amount of light
audible to humans and are also good at oxygen to retina entering eye
detecting the direction the sounds come from. The area of a dog’s brain that interprets
Breeds with erect ears—the best design for scent messages is estimated to be about 40 Transparent
funneling sound—usually have sharper times larger than ours. Although scenting cornea
hearing than those with drop or pendant ability depends to some extent on the size covers iris
ears. A dog’s ears are also highly mobile and of the dog and the shape of his muzzle, and pupil
frequently used to communicate with others: the average canine nose has somewhere in
slightly pulled back to signal friendship; the region of 200 million scent receptors, Optic nerve Iris (colored
dropped or flattened in fear or submission; compared to about 5 million in humans. carries part of eye)
or raised in aggression. information
TASTE to brain Lens
SMELL In mammals, the senses of taste and smell are Third eyelid protects front
Dogs take in most information through closely linked. But although a dog’s nose tells Light-sensitive of eye and spreads tears
their noses, receiving complex messages him a great deal about what he is eating, his retina contains two over surface
sense of taste is less well developed. A human
from odors that are undetectable to has an estimated 10,000 taste buds receptive types of color- The eye
humans. Sampling a smell can tell a to the basic tastes of bitter, sour, salty, and responsive cells Being flatter in shape than a human
dog about the readiness of a bitch sweet, but canines have probably fewer than eye, a dog’s eye is less efficient at
for mating, the age, sex, and 2,000. Unlike us, dogs do not have a strong adjusting the focal length of the lens.
condition of a prey animal, response to the taste of salt; this is probably But while a dog’s vision may lack fine
and possibly the mood because their wild ancestors evolved to eat detail, it is much more sensitive to
of his owner. meat, which has a high salt content, and so light and movement.
there was no need to discriminate between
foods. Possibly to provide a balance to this Middle ear bones
amplify sounds
salty diet, dogs have taste receptors on
the tips of their tongues that Semicircular
are highly receptive canals aid
to water. balance

Cochlea
changes
sound into
chemical
signals

Ear canal Eardrum Auditory nerve
carries chemical

signals to brain

The ear

The mobile external part of the ear scans for and

funnels sound waves toward the middle and inner

ear, where they are amplified and transformed into

chemical signals that can be interpreted by the brain.

Brain Position of Nasal
vomeronasal membranes
Tongue rather have around
insensitive to salt organ 200 million
scent receptors

The brain Nose and tongue Thin, convoluted Water receptors
All the sensory information that a dog receives Scent and taste are chemical turbinal bones covered concentrated
is carried along nerves to the brain, where senses located in the dog’s with nasal membranes on tip of tongue
it is interpreted and then acted upon in an muzzle. Additional scent receptors capture scent molecules
appropriate way. The speed at which this happens in the vomeronasal organ at the 13
can be extremely rapid: for example, the source base of the nasal cavity are
of a sound can be pinpointed about six-hundredths important for gathering
of a second after it is heard. information about other dogs.

INTRODUCTION TO DOGS | CARDIOVASCULAR AND DIGESTIVE SYSTEMS

Cardiovascular and
digestive systems

The major body systems that keep a dog, and all other mammals, up and running can
function only by working together. Oxygen drawn in by the lungs and nutrients
contributed by the digestive system are the essential fuels of life and must be
transported to every part of the body. Circulating blood, driven through a network of
arteries and veins by the steady beating of the heart, provides the vital supply line.

CIRCULATION AND RESPIRATION dioxide, produced by cell activity. Blood warm air that causes saliva in its mouth to
A dog’s heart functions in the same way as flows in a continuous circuit, picking up evaporate—latent heat is lost, and the dog’s
our own, pumping with a regular rhythm to oxygen from inhaled air in the lungs, and body temperature decreases as a result.
keep blood moving around the body. Inside then carrying it, together with nutrients
the muscular walls of the heart there are absorbed through the intestinal walls, Also invaluable for dogs, especially
four chambers that contract and relax in a around the entire body. At the same time cold-climate spitz breeds, is an adaptation
sequence with each heartbeat. This forces that oxygen is collected in the lungs, carbon to the cardiovascular system that prevents
blood out of the heart through the arteries dioxide diffuses out of the bloodstream and excessive loss of body heat through the
and into circulation and allows the heart to is expelled from the body in exhaled breath. paws when in contact with cold ground.
refill with blood returning via the veins.
The respiratory system also has a vital role
This circulatory, or cardiovascular, system in preventing a dog’s body from overheating.
operates in conjunction with the respiratory Because a dog has only a few sweat glands,
system to bring oxygen to every cell in the mostly in its paws, it cannot keep cool by
body and to remove waste, such as carbon perspiring. Instead, a dog pants, exhaling

Femoral artery and Lungs have a large surface Trachea carries inhaled air
vein are the main area and rich blood supply to from the nostrils or mouth
maximize gaseous exchange to the lungs and exhaled
blood vessels of the air back out
hind legs Pulmonary artery, in contrast to all
other arteries, carries Jugular vein
14
deoxygenated blood (to the lungs Carotid artery carries up to
from the heart) 20 percent of the heart’s
blood to the brain
Rib cage protects
heart and lungs Pulmonary vein, in contrast to all
other veins, carries oxygenated
Heart contracts and relaxes regularly to blood (from the lungs to the heart)
pump blood around the body; its size and
Aorta has thick, elastic walls to
shape vary with the breed carry blood under pressure as
it leaves the heart

Subclavian artery and vein
are the main blood
vessels of the forelegs

Circulatory system
Oxygenated blood is carried from
the heart to all parts of the body in a
branching network of arteries (red),
and returns in a similar network of
veins (blue) carrying carbon dioxide.

CARDIOVASCULAR AND DIGESTIVE SYSTEMS

Where the blood flows in and out of the TEETH Carnassial
paws, the arteries and veins are in very close teeth
proximity. As warm arterial blood passes By the age of 7 to 8 months, most dogs
into the paws, it transfers its heat to the have a full set of 42 adult teeth, all Hidden
cooler returning venous blood, so the heat adapted for eating meat. At the front, canine root
is retained in the body rather than lost to the upper and lower jaws have six
the environment. Known as counter-current incisors flanked at either side by a Incisor
heat exchange, the same mechanism single large canine tooth that was tooth
operates in the skin of walruses and in once used for grasping, holding, and
penguins’ feet, allowing them to survive piercing prey. Along the sides of the Canine
in freezing polar environments. jaws are the premolars and molars. tooth
The fourth upper premolar and lower
DIGESTING FOOD first molar on each side of the jaw are Premolars Molars
A healthy dog wastes no time in clearing its called carnassial teeth and are a feature
food bowl, gulping down one mouthful of all mammals belonging to the
after another without stopping to chew Carnivora order. These teeth act like a
anything. Canids are programmed to eat fast, pair of scissors and are used for cutting
not out of greed but out of necessity—in the and shearing through hide and bone.
wild the slowest feeder risks losing its meal to
ravenous pack mates. Humans tend to savor process of digestion even before swallowing. much more quickly and easily digested than
the food in their mouths, chewing it and Dogs, which have relatively few taste buds plant material. A dog’s stomach contains
mixing it well with saliva, which starts the compared to humans, simply grab large high levels of digestive acids that break
chunks of food and swallow them whole. To down meat, bone, and fat rapidly, reducing
Sharp teeth bite off lumps mitigate this, they also have an excellent gag food to a liquid that then passes into the
of meat, which are mixed reflex. If they eat something unpleasant they small intestine. Once there, digestive
with saliva and swallowed enzymes produced by the liver and pancreas
can simply throw it up. aid the breakdown of food into nutrients
whole without chewing The canine digestive tract is that can be absorbed into the bloodstream
short and designed specifically through the intestinal walls. Any undigested
Muscular contractions of for processing meat, which is material moves through the large intestine
the esophagus move the to be eliminated as feces. In dogs, the transit
lumps of food down into Pancreas produces more time of food through the digestive tract,
enzymes and substances that from eating to elimination, takes around
the stomach neutralize the stomach acid on
8 to 9 hours, compared with an average
entering the duodenum of 36 to 48 hours in humans.

Stomach has rings of muscle at its Large intestine absorbs
entrance (cardiac sphincter) and exit excess liquid. Feces are
(pyloric sphincter) and produces enzymes, formed and are passed
and mucus that coats its walls, protecting from the body
them from the acid it produces to break
Nutrients are absorbed
down the fibrous tissue in meat through the walls of the
small intestine into the
Liver produces bile to help break
down fat into molecules that can bloodstream

then be absorbed by the blood

Digestive system
Structurally simple—essentially the gut is a long
tube—but functionally complex, the digestive
system processes food, releasing its nutrients so
they can be absorbed into the blood stream.

15

INTRODUCTION TO DOGS | URINARY, REPRODUCTIVE, AND HORMONAL SYSTEMS

Urinary, reproductive,
and hormonal systems

In dogs, as in mammals generally, the urinary and reproductive systems share much of the same area
in the hind part of the abdominal cavity. Their tracts become linked together in the male, where
urine and sperm have a combined exit point through the penis. Like all body functions, both these
systems are fine-tuned by hormonal action. Hormones control the production and volume of
urine, and they ensure that a female dog’s reproductive periods occur at optimum times.

URINARY SYSTEM through which urine is excreted. The passer-by is male or female. The smell fades
The function of the urinary system is process is regulated by hormones acting on quickly in the open air, which is why male
to remove waste from the blood and the kidneys to maintain the correct balance dogs constantly mark spots with small
expel it from the body, along with excess of salts and other chemicals in the body. amounts of urine, often returning to the
water, as urine. The urinary organs same place to refresh the message. Bitches
comprise the kidneys, which work as Dogs urinate not just to relieve their tend to empty their bladders completely in
filtering units and make urine; the bladders but also to mark territory and just one place. Urine of either sex contains
ureters, tubes that carry urine away from communicate with other dogs. Hormones nitrogen and it is this that is responsible
the kidneys; the bladder, which acts as and chemicals carried in the urine have an for the brown patches that appear on lawns
a reservoir; and the urethra, the tube odor that provides a sniffing dog with where dogs have been.
information, including whether a recent

Hypothalamic region Brain controls
controls pituitary activity most hypothalamic
activity
Kidneys filter
Ureters carry waste from blood
urine to bladder

from kidneys

Spermatic cords Pituitary gland
transport sperm to stimulates and
controls other glands
prostate gland
Thyroid gland is
Uretha carries controlled by
urine and semen pituitary gland

Testes produce sperm Penis rests in Adrenal glands,
and testosterone, which protective adjacent to kidneys,
sheath produce adrenaline
plays a key role in and cortisone
the development of Baculum
(penis bone) Male systems
male sex organs The urinary system is similar to that of the female,
Bladder stores except that it merges with the reproductive
16 urine system in the urethra. Except for the different
sex hormones produced, the hormone systems
are also alike. The reproductive system differs both
in structure and in the fact that a male dog is
potentially sexually active all year round.

URINARY, REPRODUCTIVE, AND HORMONAL SYSTEMS

REPRODUCTION Anything from one to fourteen or more HORMONES IN
Dogs usually reach sexual maturity puppies may be born, but a litter of six PREGNANCY
somewhere between 6 and 12 months of age. to eight is the average.
In wild canines such as the wolf, females During pregnancy, rising levels of hormones
normally have one period of estrus a year HORMONES such as estrogen help to prepare a bitch
(known as “coming into season,” or being Produced by specialized glands and tissues for giving birth and also, by stimulating
“in heat”), during which they ovulate and and released into the bloodstream, hormones development of the milk glands, for feeding
are ready to breed. With a few exceptions, are chemicals that affect specific cells. her puppies. In a lactating (nursing) bitch, milk
the Basenji being one, domestic dogs usually Hormonal activity controls many body production is maintained by an increase in the
have two seasons a year. The onset of estrus functions, including growth, metabolism, hormone prolactin, which also influences
is marked by a small discharge of blood, sexual development, and reproduction. maternal behavior, arousing strong protective
which lasts for around nine days, after instincts and ensuring that the mother will not
which the bitch will be willing to mate. Neutering dogs removes the production desert her puppies while they are still totally
sites of the sex hormones—testosterone in dependent on her for survival.
Male dogs have a bone within the penis males, and estrogen in females—and
called the baculum. During mating, the prevents unwanted pregnancies. As a result Hypothalamus gland stimulates pituitary
area around the bone enlarges, locking of the loss of testosterone, male dogs lose the gland and produces oxytocin that triggers
the penis inside the female and creating urge to wander in search of females and are uterine contractions
what is known as the “tie,” which can last less likely to show aggression. Neutering also
for some minutes. If mating leads to affects coat shedding in bitches, which usually
fertilization of the female ova (eggs), the have their heaviest coat loss twice a year,
pregnancy that follows will last between triggered by the hormone that brings them
60 to 68 days. The size of the litter into season. Spayed (neutered) females tend
depends on the type of dog, with larger to shed all year round. Neutering may also
breeds tending to have larger litters. increase the probability of obesity in later life.

Sensory input into
brain affects

hypothalamus

Uterus has two Adrenal medulla
distinct horns hormones affect
stress and emotions
Kidney
Cervix separates
uterus from vagina

Vagina opens Pituitary gland controls other
at vulva hormone-producing glands
and secretes prolactin, which
Ovaries are aids milk production
seasonally active
and produce sex Thyroid and
hormones parathyroid glands
produce hormones
Bladder temporarily that control the body’s
stores urine produced metabolic rate
by kidneys
Adrenal cortex secretes
hormones that control
carbohydrates and
sex hormones

Female systems
The female has more complex reproductive
and hormonal systems than the male, since she
is sexually active only once or twice a year. After
mating, the young develop within the uterus
and, after birth, are nurtured by the female for
about six to eight weeks. All of the reproductive
stages are controlled by different hormones.

17

INTRODUCTION TO DOGS | SKIN AND COAT

Skin and coat

Dogs are thin-skinned, but for the majority their covering of hair provides sufficient warmth
and protection. Canine coats come in many types: some dogs have “big hair,” others are short,
wiry, curly, or corded. A handful of breeds have bare skins, with perhaps a sprinkling of hairs
on their extremities. While natural selection is responsible for some variation in dogs’ coats,
humans have introduced most changes, partly for utility but more often for fashion.

SKIN STRUCTURE epidermis. Dogs also have sensitive facial example, when he is afraid or angry. Unlike
In common with all mammals, dogs have hairs, called tactile hairs, which are deeply humans, dogs do not perspire through their
three layers of skin: the epidermis, or outer rooted and well supplied with blood and skin and have functional sweat glands
layer; the dermis, or middle layer; and the nerves. These include whiskers, eyebrows, mainly in the pads of their feet.
subcutaneous layer, consisting largely of fat and hairs on the ears.
cells. Compared with humans, dogs have COAT TYPES
only a thin epidermis as, with the exception Oil glands (known as sebaceous glands) Some of the main coat types are shown below.
of the few hairless breeds, they have fur are linked to the hair follicles, into which Most breeds of dog have only one coat type,
coats to provide protection and insulation. they secrete a substance called sebum. This but some, such as the Pyrenean Sheepdog (see
acts as a skin lubricant and helps to keep the p.50), have several. Many types of dog have a
Dogs’ hair grows from complex follicles, coat glossy and waterproof. Most follicles double coat, consisting of a top coat of guard
consisting of a central guard hair and also have an attached muscle that can raise hairs, which provides waterproofing, and a
several, finer undercoat hairs, which all the hair to trap warm air or, more noticeably, shorter, softer undercoat. In Spitz dogs, such
project through the same skin pore in the lift the hackles along a dog’s back: for

HAIRLESS SHORT, SINGLE COAT CURLY COAT WIRE-HAIRED COAT

FULL, DOUBLE COAT SEMI–LONG COAT LONG-HAIRED, CORDED COAT
SILKY COAT
18

SKIN AND COAT

as the Chow Chow (see p.112), this dual layer attractive dogs, such as the Cocker Spaniel the dog’s entire body. Natural genetic
can be immensely thick. With such insulation, (see p.222) and English Setter (see p.241), have mutations have resulted in several hairless
traditional sled dogs of the northern semi-long coats combining silky-textured breeds. Dogs like the Xoloitzcuintli (see p.37)
hemisphere, such as the Greenland Dog (see body hair of moderate length with longer and the Chinese Crested (see p.280) have
p.100) remain impervious to the most bitter feathering on the tail, underside, and legs. been around for centuries, but it is only in
cold. Even the feet of these dogs are protected modern times that hairlessness has been
by long hairs between the toes, which also Some short-haired dogs have sleek, deliberately perpetuated by selective
give them excellent traction on snow and firm-textured coats that often consist of breeding. Some hairless dogs have
ice—and adaptations of the blood vessels in guard hairs only. The Dalmatian (see p.286) a few wisps of hair on the head and feet, and
the feet (see p.14) help to prevent heat loss, too. and some pointers and hounds are typical. sometimes a plume on the tail.
In wire-haired dogs, largely the terrier group,
Dogs with extravagantly long hair are bred the guard hairs are kinked, giving a coarse, As any owner can testify, all dogs shed
today for appearance alone, although some springy texture. These coats are serviceable a certain amount of hair. Shedding is a
originally needed their heavy coats for an in cold weather and stand up well to an natural seasonal response to the hours of
outdoor life. For example, the Afghan Hound energetic terrier lifestyle of digging or delving daylight, and reaches a peak in the spring
(see p.136) is a sight hound from the cold, through undergrowth. Breeds with curly as the coat thins in readiness for warmer
high mountains of Afghanistan, and the coats are uncommon, the best known being weather. In double-coated dogs, whether
Bearded Collie (see p.57) has a working the Poodle (see p.229, 276), sometimes seen long- or short-haired, hair loss can be
background as a herding dog. On the other clipped in fantastic style for the show ring. considerable as the thick undercoat falls
hand, the silky, flowing coat of the diminutive In a few rare breeds, including the Komondor out. When dogs live largely indoors in
Yorkshire Terrier (see p.190) has probably (see p.66) and Puli (see p.65), curls are taken well-heated houses, the shedding pattern
always been more decorative than functional, to extremes, developing into long cords may change, with the dog losing a little hair
despite the breed’s long history. Some very resembling dreadlocks that virtually obscure throughout the year.

COAT COLORS Red; red merle; ruby; stag-red; deep red Gold and white (either color may
ginger; sandy-red; red-fawn; red-brown; predominate); white and chestnut; yellow
Some dogs have just one color or one color chestnut-brown; lion; orange; orange roan and white; white with orange; sable and
combination, but many have two or three Liver; bronze white; orange belton; lemon belton
color variations, or more. Where applicable,
the breed descriptions in this book include color Blue; blue merle (blue-gray); ash Chestnut, red, and white; red and white;
swatches that match as closely as possible the red and white spotted
coat colors recognized in a breed. These are in Dark brown; bos (brown); chocolate;
addition to the colors that can be seen dead leaf; havana Liver and white; liver belton; brown and
in the photographs of the dog. white (either color may predominate);
Black; nearly black; dark gray red roan; roan; white with liver spots
A swatch may represent a range of colors.
The swatches listed in the key are as specified Black and tan; vieräugl; karamis; King Tan and white (either color may
in the various breed standards but different Charles; black grizzle and tan; black predominate)
names may be given for the same color: for and brown
example, while red is used to describe many Blue mottled with tan; blue and tan Black and white (either color may
breeds, ruby is used for English Toy Spaniels predominate); piebald; black and white
and Cavalier King Charles Spaniels. A final Liver and tan spotted; sesame; black sesame; black
generic swatch is used to represent breeds and silver
that have a limited variety of colors, or those
that can have any color. Black, tan, and white; gray, black, and tan;
white, chocolate, and tan; Prince Charles;
Cream; white; white-beige; blonde; yellow (all also known as tricolor)

Gray; ashen-gray; slate-gray; steel-gray; Brindle; black brindle; dark brindle;
gray brindle; wolf-gray; silver fawn brindle; pepper and salt; range
of red brindles
Gold; russet-gold; apricot; biscuit; wheaten;
sandy; light sand; mustard; straw; straw- Variety of colors or any color
bracken; Isabella; all shades of fawn; pale
brown; yellow-red; sable

19

INTRODUCTION TO DOGS | DOGS IN RELIGION, MYTH, AND CULTURE A SACRED
FU DOG
Dogs in religion,
myth, and culture

With a relationship that began before the dawn of civilization, it is not surprising that, over
millennia, dogs and humans have developed strong cultural links. From being servants of
man in the material world, dogs crossed the spiritual divide to become servants of heaven
and hell. And as the bond between humans and canines strengthened into one of love and
loyalty, dogs were finally seen as characters—which has made them indispensable
role-players in popular literature and entertainment for adults and children alike.

DOGS IN RELIGION spirits in the Underworld. Similar evidence of is more monstrous than the three-headed
With dogs seen as traditional protectors, it the religious significance of dogs has been hound Cerberus, keeper of the entrance
was natural that they should be given found at burial sites of the Mayan Classic to Hades, whose capture was the 12th
symbolic duties as guardians in many belief era (c.300–900CE), where sculptures and and most dangerous Labor of Hercules.
systems. In ancient Egypt, as tomb paintings mummies suggest that dogs were buried
and hieroglyphs reveal, dogs were associated with their owners to lead their souls in the The concept of the phantom dog occurs
with the jackal-headed god Anubis, guide of afterlife. The Aztecs (14th–16th century) time and again in stories of the supernatural.
buried pottery figures of dogs with their Malevolent dogs are part of the folklore
dead and probably used dogs as sacrifices of peoples across the world, from North
in religious ceremonies. In China statues and South America to Asia. Many legends
of Fu dogs, also known as guardian lions, originate in Britain and Ireland, where
are seen at the entrances of many Buddhist ghostly dogs, usually large and black,
temples—their lionlike appearance giving frightened people by haunting graveyards
them sacred significance. or lonely crossroads. Phantom dogs were
given various regional names, such as the
Most major religions practiced today Barghest and the Grim. On a dark and
are largely dismissive of dogs, and some deserted road, Charlotte Bronte’s usually
shun them as unclean. But to Hindus in strong-minded heroine Jane Eyre is briefly
parts of present-day India and Nepal, dogs spooked into thinking she has seen the
are regarded as guardians of the gates to Gytrash, the spirit-hound of northern
heaven and are associated with the god England. Sir Arthur Conan Doyle picked
Vishnu, whose four dogs are said to up on the black dog legend in The Hound
represent the four Vedas, the ancient holy of the Baskervilles (1901), his eerie tale
texts of the Hindus. At an annual religious of a fiery-eyed hound visiting terror on
festival dogs are decorated with flower Dartmoor in Britain.
garlands and marked with the sacred red
dot (tika) on their foreheads. DOGS IN LITERATURE
People have been writing about dogs for
CANINE MYTHS AND LEGENDS around 2,000 years, but the earliest books
Dogs both faithful and frightening have were practical guides for people who
featured in classical myths, legends, and kept dogs for working, primarily hunting.
folk tales throughout the ages and in all Fictional dogs certainly appear in dozens
countries. None is more loyal than Argos, of Aesop’s Fables, written around 500 years
Odysseus’s hunting dog, who waits 20 years BCE, but here the Greek moralizer was
to welcome his master home and then dies using dogs as a way of illustrating human
with a final wag of his tail. And possibly none characteristics and failings, such as greed
or gullibility. It was only in much later
Argos, the great dog centuries, when dogs became pets and
In Homer’s The Odyssey, Argos is Odysseus’s faithful dog. companions, that they began to be treated
When Odysseus arrives back to his homeland, Ithaca, in as personalities in their own right.
disguise after 20 years, Argos is the first to recognize him.

20

DOGS IN RELIGION, MYTH, AND CULTURE

The Incredible Journey White Fang fifth member of the Famous Five in a stream
One of the biggest tearjerkers of the 1960s, The Incredible The 1906 novel White Fang by Jack London tells the story of of stories written by Enid Blyton between
Journey was based on a book of the same name and told the a dog-wolf crossbreed. After successfully fighting several other the 1940s and 1960s. Timmy helps to save the
story of Luath, the Labrador, Bodger, the Bull Terrier, and Tao, dogs, he is matched with a bulldog that nearly kills him. day in all kinds of improbable adventures,
an indomitable Siamese cat, as they journey across hundreds but he is nonetheless a more believable dog
of miles of dangerous wilderness to reach home. An early fictional dog with enduring than Nana, and one that children can readily
appeal is “Crab,” from Shakespeare’s The imagine as a companion. Other old faithfuls
Two Gentlemen of Verona (c.1592), whose include Snowy the white terrier, sidekick to
owner, the servant Launce, mournfully the boy detective Tintin (see p.209), and
describes him as “the sourest-natured dog Dorothy’s dog Toto in The Wizard of Oz.
that lives.” This heartless hound, usually
played on stage for laughs by a real dog, DOGS ON SCREEN
may have been less than a “best friend,” Since the 20th century dog stories have
but in most dog stories devotion has always been a huge success in movies. Walt
been the keynote. Disney’s cartoon dogs have delighted
moviegoers for decades—hapless Pluto;
Typical of a genre more popular a century well-bred Lady and street-wise Tramp; the
ago than today are the books of Jack 101 Dalmatians (see p.286). Real-life dogs
London, such as The Call of the Wild (1903) have appeared in other popular films, such
and White Fang (1906)—tales told partly as Lassie (see p.52), Old Yeller, Big Red,
from the dog’s point of view, combined with and The Incredible Journey. In the tradition
rip-roaring action. Despite their undeniable of Shakespeare’s “Crab,” dogs make good
elements of brutality, these books survive film comedians and many leading actors
as classics. have allowed themselves to be upstaged
by a canine costar; such memorable screen
Among cozier storybook canines that have dogs include the lugubrious mastiff helping
stayed the course, one of the best loved is with police investigations in Turner and
Nana, a sad-eyed Newfoundland (see p.78) Hooch (1989), the delinquent Labrador
dog, nurse to the Darling children in Peter in Marley and Me (2008), and the scene-
Pan, who marches her charges to school and stealing Jack Russell in The Artist (2011).
nags them into the bathtub. Also familiar
to millions of children is Timmy, the
rough-coated mongrel who features as the

The Artist
Uggie is a Jack Russell Terrier famous for his roles in Mr. Fix
It, Water for Elephants, and The Artist. Uggie’s role in The
Artist (a still from the movie above) drew great acclaim
worldwide and the film went on to win multiple awards.

21

INTRODUCTION TO DOGS | DOGS IN ART AND ADVERTISING HOGARTH
WITH HIS PET
Dogs in art and advertising PUG, TRUMP

Drawn and painted, sculpted, woven into tapestries, photographed, used as company logos:
dogs have had visual appeal for the entire span of their association with humans. In almost
every type of medium, they tell stories without words, say something about their owners
or the people who portray them, and reflect the lifestyles and tastes of different ages. Most
people like dogs and enjoy them as subjects in art. Commercial organizations have long
relied on this unfailing attraction by using dog images to promote goods and services.

PORTRAYING DOGS Saharan Africa, believed by some authorities unicorns across medieval tapestries; an
A history of the domestic dog can be traced to be more than 5,000 years old. Dogs, estimated 35 dogs appear in the famous
through the development of art. Probably similar in appearance to today’s greyhounds, Bayeux Tapestry illustrating the Norman
some of the earliest depictions of dogs, in hunted on through the Classical ages of Conquest of Britain, albeit largely confined
their original role as hunting companions, Greece and Rome in superbly rendered to the fringes of the main action. The hunting
are prehistoric rock paintings discovered in sculptures, especially associated with the dog theme continued into the sporting prints
Greek goddess Artemis (Roman Diana). of the 18th century, with their packs of
The best-known Classical dogs are not foxhounds in full cry, and the portraits
hunters, though, but the fierce, chained of gundogs, dead game hanging limply
guard dogs in lifelike mosaics retrieved from their jaws, favored by the 19th-century
from the ashes of Pompeii. In later ages landed shooting fraternity.
slender sight hounds pursued deer and
Before dogs became accepted as the norm
Rock carving in ordinary homes during the 19th century,
From the Neolithic period to the 21st century, dogs have they were usually painted as pets only in
been enjoyed as art subjects. This petroglyph in Youf portraits commissioned by the wealthy—
Ahakit Tassili Ahaggar, Sahara Desert, Algeria, is one of as companions of aristocrats or in the arms
the earliest depictions. of small beribboned children. But dogs

Ringwood, a Brocklesby Foxhound
This anatomically accurate portrait of a Foxhound painted
by English painter George Stubbs in 1792 reveals how
Foxhounds looked at the time.

Bayeux Tapestry
This section of the Bayeux Tapestry from the 11th century
depicts three large dogs and two smaller ones running
ahead of a huntsman.

22

DOGS IN ART AND ADVERTISING

portrayed as a fact of life, desirable or A king’s companion Equally long survivors are the black Scottie
otherwise, have been common in art for This portrait of Emperor Charles V by Tiziano (see p.189) and the West Highland White
centuries. William Hogarth (1697–1764), Vecelli (Titian) subtly suggests the emperor’s Terrier (see p.188), famous since the 1890s as
who posed with his pet pug, Trump, in a power as he is depicted restraining one of his the trademark for a brand of Scotch whisky.
self-portrait, included dogs as part of the large dogs. Original bar figurines, jugs, and ashtrays
social commentary implicit in his work. featuring the “Black and White” pair are now
Hogarth’s dogs go about their canine affairs painted dogs innumerable times, collectors’ items.
largely unregarded, stealing food scraps or sitting on laps, going for walks, and
lifting a leg to urinate. Dogs began to be at picnics. Amid the crowded scene With the arrival of commercial television,
painted as a subject in their own right in the of one of his most famous works, dogs started appearing on screen in
late 18th century by painters such as George The Boating Party (1880–81), a small advertisements promoting almost anything
Stubbs. A more sentimental attitude to dogs dog shares the limelight in the from cans of paint to credit cards. Since
crept in with the Victorian artists, famously foreground. Another artist who the 1970s, hundreds of huggable Labrador
Sir Edwin Landseer (1802–73), whose enjoyed painting dogs was Pierre Retriever (see pp.260) puppies have taken
portraits of self-sacrificing Newfoundlands Bonnard (1867–1947); from street on the role as mascot for a best-selling toilet
(see p.79), pert terriers, and noble deerhounds mutts to family pets, he showed them tissue, gamboling amid unraveling toilet-
embody the virtues and emotions of his era. bursting with real character. paper rolls. Naturally, dogs are used to
advertise their own products, too. Bright-
Some of the greatest pictures in the world More disturbing are the dogs used eyed and bouncing, they testify to the
include a dog or two—variously interpreted as obscure symbols in the surreal excellence of various canned and packaged
by impressionists, post-impressionists, paintings of Salvador Dali. The pet foods—although the biggest hit, Henry
surrealists, modernists, and others. Renoir starving hound chewing a carcass in the bloodhound in a much-loved television
Dali’s Metamorphosis of Narcissis advertisement of the 1960s and 70s, simply
(1937) possibly reflects death and sat and looked doleful.
decay. Just as enigmatic is fellow
surrealist Joan Miro’s cartoonish In the world of fashion, dogs are also
little dog baying at an uncaring often used on the principle that “cute sells.”
Moon in a largely barren canvas Alongside leggy models in haute couture
(Dog Barking at the Moon, 1926). clothes or advertising luxury goods, dogs
Dog-lover Picasso’s simple sketch of work particularly well as accessories. Today’s
his dog, Lump, captures the essence upmarket fashion magazines are full of
of the Dachshund (see p.170) in a photoshoots featuring Pugs (see p.268)
few graceful lines and has become and Chihuahuas (see p.282) wearing a
one of his most popular prints. small fortune in designer jewelry around
Lucien Freud included his beloved their necks or poking their heads out of
whippets, Eli and Pluto, in several of his expensive handbags.
powerful human portraits—in his Girl with
a White Dog (1950–51) the bull terrier is as His Master’s Voice
much a focal point of the picture as the Used as a logo since 1899 by the music company HMV,
female model, Freud’s first wife. Nipper, the terrier gazing transfixed into the trumpet of a
windup gramophone, has survived into the 21st century
COMMERCIAL ICONS despite the advent of new technology.
Dog appeal has proved immensely valuable
in the field of commercial advertising. In
much the same way as artists sometimes
portray dogs symbolically, so marketing
managers find dogs useful for putting their
messages across: bulldogs, strong and
reliable, sell insurance; large, shaggy dogs
suggest a family-friendly product; small,
fluffy breeds have the right image for
beauty aids.

One of the best-known advertising icons of
all time is the painting of the terrier
“Nipper,” used as a logo since 1899 by the
music company HMV (His Master’s Voice).

23

INTRODUCTION TO DOGS | DOGS IN SPORTS AND SERVICE

Dogs in sports and service

From the dawn of their relationship, dogs and humans have worked and played
together successfully. Most dogs are natural enthusiasts for chasing and running, and
people the world over learned early on how to exploit these inclinations for hunting
and sports. Canine intelligence has also proved more than equal to the numerous
demands made on dogs as work partners. Most are eager to please and have readily
taken on duties as guardians, herders, guides, trackers, and even home helpers.

HUNTING FOR PLEASURE In later centuries, pack-hunting dogs shooting of waterfowl and game birds such as
Primitive peoples used dogs to help them developed into distinctly recognizable pheasant and grouse. Among the breeds still
catch game for food, but with the rise of breeds, such as foxhounds, staghounds, bred and trained today are pointers and setters
civilizations, hunting with dogs developed and otterhounds. Hunting of live game with that direct the guns to their targets, spaniels
into a sport as well, although usually only hounds is now illegal in some countries, but for working in undergrowth to flush out
for the wealthier members of society. As the excitement of the chase lives on in drag- game, and retrievers to bring back fallen birds.
paintings dating back nearly 3,000 years hunting, in which the pack follows a trail of
depict, the Ancient Egyptians hunted with artificial scent. Hunting dogs with highly SPORTING DOGS
dogs very similar to some of today’s big-eared specialized roles were developed when the Hunting is by no means the only way
sight hounds, such as the Pharaoh Hound (see invention of guns led to the growth of sports humans have used dogs for their own
p.32) and Ibizan Hound (see p.33) In China amusement. One of the earliest, and most
the tombs of the Han dynasty (206BCE– Tracking and chasing brutal, “entertainments” was pit fighting,
220CE), have yielded realistic figurines of Early hunters appreciated the ability of hounds to follow in which powerful dogs, such as the mastiffs
heftily built mastiff-type hunting dogs that a scent as well as their speed when chasing quarry so once seen in the arenas of Ancient Rome,
appear to be “pointing” at game. worked with them to increase their hunting success, as were set against bears, bulls, and sometimes
seen in this Roman relief of Hercules hunting. each other. The battles were bloody, and
By medieval times in Europe, hunting victory for one combatant meant death or
with dogs of various types was the passion of mutilation for the other. On a smaller scale,
kings and landowning nobility. Swift-running pit fights between terriers and rats once had
hounds, resembling modern greyhounds and a widespread following.
harriers, were sent after smaller game; but
dangerous quarry such as bear and wild boar People have come up with many other
required larger hounds, hunting in varied ways of using dogs in sports, among which
packs that included the now-extinct types trials of speed have been the most enduring.
known as alaunts and lymers, which were Coursing, in which competing pairs of fast
broadly similar to mastiffs and bloodhounds. sight hounds such as Greyhounds, Whippets,
or Salukis are sent in pursuit of hares, was
popular for nearly 2,000 years before being
made illegal in most European countries.
Greyhound racing has attracted big crowds
for hundreds of years; and since the 20th
century some of the most challenging races
in terms of speed and endurance have
been for teams of sled dogs—tough,
cold-weather breeds such as Greenland
Dogs (see p.100) and Siberian Huskies
(see p.101)—competing over hundreds
of miles in harsh northern territories.

Afghan Hounds racing
Dog racing has been a popular means of entertainment
for centuries. Several breeds, including Afghan Hounds,
race as they chase an artificial lure around a track until
they cross the finish line.

24

DOGS IN SPORTS AND SERVICE

Gathering the flock the thick-coated shepherd dogs still seen in bloodhounds pursue fleeing suspects, and
Sheepdogs are trained to round up and herd flocks and are eastern Europe, were developed to deal with specially trained dogs are also invaluable
hardy enough to work in severe climate conditions. Here a dangerous predators. in such work as detecting drugs or locating
Border Collie herds sheep in Twizel, New Zealand. survivors in areas of devastation.
Harnessing canine strength has sometimes
Among the gentler sports are trials in which been taken literally, with larger dogs used as Dogs have often made life in the home
dogs display their agility, intelligence, and draft animals, whether for hauling sleds over easier, too. The Ancient Aztecs used hairless
obedience by negotiating tricky obstacle polar ice, drawing milk carts, or taking small dogs as hot-water bottles on cold nights,
courses. Agility trials are often highly children for rides in traps. In the past even but in the modern world canine partners
competitive affairs; but many are no more small dogs were sometimes used for sometimes have to be more active. Guide
than low-key local events, in which anyone’s providing motive power: unfortunate terriers dogs help people with impaired sight to
pet with a zest for leaping over jumps or could be found in the sweltering kitchens of safely negotiate hazards such as traffic and
wriggling through pipes can take part. large houses and inns, running endlessly in stairs. Many people with other disabilities
treadwheels to turn roasting spits. or illnesses also rely on dogs trained to
DOGS IN SERVICE perform such tasks as warning of impending
Another of the early occupations for dogs Dogs have gone to war for centuries, and epileptic seizures or even loading the
in the service of humans was as guardians in World Wars I and II were employed to washing machine. In hospitals, hospices,
and herders of livestock, and the tradition carry messages, first aid, and ammunition and nursing homes dogs chosen carefully for
continues in many parts of the world. Pastoral across no-go zones. Today dogs trained to their amenable temperaments are brought in
work is not always peaceful where bears and sniff out explosive devices are important to provide comfort and distraction, and
wolves live, and so large, powerful breeds members of the armed forces. A dog’s ability their services as a very real form of therapy
with fiercely protective instincts, such as to scent trouble has also proved helpful to are widely acknowledged.
police and security forces. Baying

25



GUIDE TO CHAPTER 2
BREEDS

A primitive dog of many talents
Today the Peruvian Hairless is kept mainly
as a pet, but for hundreds of years this
athletic breed was used for hunting
and guarding as well as for therapeutic
purposes and companionship.

PRIMITIVE DOGS

PRIMITIVE
DOGS

Many modern dog breeds are the result of hundreds of years of breeding for particular
characteristics, but a few, commonly regarded as primitive dogs, have remained close to the
original “blueprint” of their wolf ancestors. As a group, primitive dogs are not clearly defined,
and not all authorities agree that such a category should be recognized.

As variously listed, primitive dogs include the Carolina Dog (see p.35) Other examples are hairless dogs
are a diverse group, but many of of North America and the rare New from Mexico and South America,
them share typically wolflike Guinea Singing Dog (see p.32), which genetic mutations of coated breeds
characteristics. These include erect is genetically very close to the dingo that resemble dogs depicted in the art
ears, a wedge-shaped head with a of Australia. Such dogs have evolved and artifacts of ancient civilizations.
pointed muzzle, and a tendency to naturally rather than through breeding
howl rather than bark. Their coats for temperament or appearance and Recent genetic investigations suggest
are usually short but vary in color and cannot be considered completely that two dogs included in this section—
density according to the region from domesticated. The New Guinea the Pharaoh Hound (see p.32) and the
which the dog originates. Most Singing Dog, which is on the verge Ibizan Hound (see p.33)—should no
primitive dogs come into season only of extinction, is more likely to be longer be considered primitive. These
once a year, unlike other domestic seen in zoos than in homes. breeds are popularly supposed to be
dogs, which have two cycles of the direct descendants of big-eared
estrus a year. Several dogs are included in Egyptian hounds pictured in drawings
the primitive group because they dating back 3,000 years. However,
Canine specialists are now taking are believed to be uninfluenced there is genetic evidence that the line
an interest in dogs that have had little by any other types over thousands of descent may not have remained
to do with humans and nothing to do of years. Among them is the Basenji unbroken down the centuries. It is
with breed development programs. (see p.30) from Africa, long used probable that the Pharaoh and Ibizan
These primitive dogs, which come for hunting in its native country Hounds are in fact modern re-creations
from various parts of the world, before becoming a popular pet. of ancient breeds.

29

CATALOG OF BREEDS | PRIMITIVE DOGS
30

PRIMITIVE DOGS

Basenji DEDICATED BREEDER

HEIGHT WEIGHT LIFE SPAN Variety of colors Veronica Tudor-Williams (below) was one of the
16–17in 22–24lb Over 10 years first people to import the Basenji to the UK from
(40–43cm) (10–11kg) White markings may appear on Africa in the late 1930s. She continued breeding
chest, feet, and tail tip. her dogs during the food shortages of World
War II and exported puppies to North America,
This neat and graceful dog is always on the alert and ready helping to establish the breed there. In 1959 she
to protect, but instead of barking it yodels traveled to southern Sudan in search of native
Basenji dogs that could be used to improve
One of the most primitive breeds, the most other dogs. Instead, the dogs howl the breed. She returned with two. One of them,
Basenji is a hunting dog from Central Africa. or yodel; some of the African tribespeople a red and white female named Fula, was never
Like the Canaan Dog (see p.32), it belongs who use them refer to them as “talking presented at shows but was still extremely
to a group known as Schensi dogs—breeds dogs.” Another notable feature is that influential and appears in the pedigrees of
that have not been completely domesticated. the females come into season only once nearly all registered Basenjis.
Basenjis are traditionally used by pygmy a year, like wolves, rather than twice,
hunters; they live semi-independently in a as with domestic dogs. Flat-topped
pack alongside the tribe, but are employed skull
for driving big game into nets. The dogs The Basenji is affectionate and fun-
are fitted with bells around their necks to loving, and is a popular house dog. Although
scare their prey. Western explorers originally loyal to its family, it is rather independent-
encountered these dogs in the 17th century minded, so may need careful training to
and used names such as “Congo Terrier” follow orders. These dogs are fast, agile,
or “Bush Dog” to describe them. In the and intelligent; they locate their prey by
1930s the first dogs were imported into both sight and scent, and enjoy chasing
the UK, and the breed was named basenji and tracking activities. They need plenty
(meaning “little things from the bush” of mental and physical exercise if they are
or “villagers’ dogs” in one of the languages
of the Congo region of Africa). not to become bored.

An unusual feature of the Basenji is Forehead wrinkles
that it does not bark—the larynx (voice when alert
box) is shaped differently from that of

Tail carried in tight Smooth,
curl over back short coat

Finely Long,
chiseled elegant
features neck

Very long
forearms

Red

PUPPY

31

CATALOG OF BREEDS | PRIMITIVE DOGS

New Guinea Singing Dog Canaan Dog

HEIGHT 16–18in (40–45cm) Sable Black and tan HEIGHT 20–24in (50–60cm) White Black
WEIGHT 18–31lb (8–14kg) WEIGHT 40–55lb (18–25kg) Black and
LIFE SPAN 15–20 years White markings are common with all color LIFE SPAN Over 10 years Red and white spotted
types. white spotted

This rare dingolike breed is a native of New Guinea, where Bred in Israel as a watchdog and herder, the Canaan Dog has
strong protective instincts that do not usually turn into aggression.
it lives feral or in semidomestication. The Singing Dog Wedge- It is highly intelligent, and with steady training makes a reliable
is kept as a curiosity in zoos worldwide but has become shaped and affectionate companion. Not a common breed,
a challenging pet for a few dedicated owners. It has head it has yet to achieve widespread popularity.

the extraordinary ability to vary the notes of

its howl, hence the name. Red Dark, slightly
slanting eyes
Brushlike,
thick tail, carried
high and curled

Short, thick, Dense,
plush coat harsh coat

Small, Low-set,
erect ears broad ears

Moderately Tucked-up White
tucked-up belly chest
belly markings
Sandy

Pharaoh Hound

HEIGHT 21–25in (53–63cm)
WEIGHT 44–55lb (20–25kg)
LIFE SPAN Over 10 years

Although the modern Pharaoh Hound was developed in Malta, Arched,
long neck
this graceful breed bears a strong resemblance to the prick-eared
Dark tan
hunting dogs illustrated in the art and artifacts of Ancient Egypt. Slender,
elegant body
The Pharaoh Hound is calm-tempered but needs a lot of exercise

and unless restrained outdoors

will fly off in pursuit of small Large,
animals, including other pets. erect ears

Whipped tail, White markings
carried in a on chest
high curve common
when active
Toes often
Amber-colored eyes Short, glossy, marked white
slightly harsh coat

32

PRIMITIVE DOGS

Canarian Warren Hound Cirneco dell’Etna

HEIGHT 21-25in (53–64cm) HEIGHT 17–20in (42–52cm) Isabella, light sand
WEIGHT 35-49lb (16–22kg) WEIGHT 18–26lb (8–12kg)
LIFE SPAN 12–13 years LIFE SPAN 12–14 years

Also known as the Podenco Canario, this hound— This Sicilian breed, which may have originated in Narrow,
found on all the Canary Islands—has Egyptian roots almost
dating back thousands of years. The breed is used as the area immediately around Mount Etna, is rare
a rabbit-hunter and is highly valued for its speed, flat skull
keen sight, and excellent nose. Sensitive and restless,
it is unlikely to adapt well to a quiet life indoors. outside its native country. Lithe and strong, the

Cirneco dell’Etna is built to run and hunt. Although

good-natured, this dog is not an ideal option

for owners who want a placid house pet. Strong,
arched neck

Red Flesh-
colored
Low-set, slightly Short,
tapered tail nose glossy coat

Small, amber- Erect, rigid
colored ears set high
eyes on head

Slender, White Fawn White
athletic body markings markings
on chest on chest
Sleek,
smooth coat

Ibizan Hound Lion

HEIGHT 22–29in (56–74cm) Flat skull
WEIGHT 44–51lb (20–23kg)
LIFE SPAN 10–12 years Long,
slender
Used in Spain as a pack dog for hunting rabbits, the Ibizan Hound can Large, tan, muzzle
cover the roughest ground at a “raking trot” characteristic of the breed. pointed ears
This dog also has an enormous jump and can easily leap over a garden
fence. As long as an owner bears security in mind, the Ibizan Hound Lean,
is not difficult to keep, but it is an all-action dog that needs relentless muscular body
exercise. The breed has a charming temperament and fits in well
with family life. There are two coat types—smooth and
rough—both of which are easy to maintain.

White

Clear, Narrow
amber eyes head

Chestnut White chest
and collar
SMOOTH-COATED ROUGH-COATED Long forearms

Slender,
strong toes

33

CATALOG OF BREEDS | PRIMITIVE DOGS

Portuguese Podengo WIREHAIRED
PEQUENO
HEIGHT WEIGHT LIFE SPAN
Pequeno: 8–12in (20–30cm) Pequeno: 9–11lb (4–5kg) Over 12 years White, yellow
Medio: 16–21in (40–54cm) Medio: 35–44lb (16–20kg) Black
Grande: 22–28in (55–70cm) Grande: 44–66lb (20–30kg) White dogs have patches of yellow, black,
or fawn. Pequeno dogs may be brown.

An all-purpose hunter that makes an entertaining companion SUITABLY SIZED
given sufficient mental and physical activity

Bred primarily to hunt hare and rabbit, the

The national dog of Portugal, the to control vermin during the voyages. On Portuguese Podengo is a primitive sight hound.
It was bred in three sizes so it could work in any
Portuguese Podengo is said to have originated reaching new lands, the dogs were put back type of terrain. The Grande dog was developed
in south central Portugal to hunt in open areas
from dogs brought to the Iberian Peninsula to their usual work. However, as podengo

by the Phoenicians over 2,000 years ago. is a general Portuguese term that refers to where speed is important. The Medio, being a
Today there are three different varieties: any prick-eared hound, these early exports smaller and more maneuverable dog, was found
small (Pequeno), medium (Medio), and large were probably very different from the breed farther north where there is more cover for game.
(Grande). Smooth-haired Podengos are more recognized today. The smallest, the Pequeno, hunts in very dense
commonly found in the north of the country undergrowth that would be too difficult for
The modern Portuguese Podengo, and larger dogs to work in effectively.

where the climate is damp, since their in particular the Pequeno variety, is rapidly

quick-drying coat is suited to wet weather. growing in popularity as a companion dog,

Wirehaired types are more commonly found having been imported to both the UK and

in the drier south. All varieties were the US. In contrast, the Podengo Grande has

traditionally bred for hunting, and in become increasingly rare since the 1970s,

Portugal some are still used for that purpose. although efforts are being made to increase

The Portuguese, being seafaring people, its numbers again. Regardless of size, the

were among the first Europeans to Podengo’s intelligence and alertness make

explore and colonize the it an excellent watchdog.

Americas in the 15th and 16th

centuries, laying claim to parts

of Canada and Brazil. It is said White blaze
that the ships used for these on face

explorations carried Podengos, Large, triangular,
a useful asset because they helped erect ears

Fawn with Short
white markings coat

Fawn

Strong SMOOTH-HAIRED PEQUENO
hindquarters
Rounded feet with
SMOOTH-HAIRED MEDIO well arched toes

PRIMITIVE DOGS

Carolina Dog Deep red-ginger
Black and tan
HEIGHT 18–20in (45–50cm)
WEIGHT 33–44lb (15–20kg)
LIFE SPAN 12–14 years

Also known as the “American Dingo,” Triangular,
this dog’s ancestors are thought to have been erect ears
domesticated and brought into North America
by early settlers from Asia. In America’s Wheaten
southeastern states, some still live
semi-wild. Naturally wary, this dog Longer
needs early socializing to make it hairs on
an acceptable pet. neck

Short, Lighter-colored
dense coat chest

Tail carried in
distinctive hook

when alert

Peruvian Inca Orchid

HEIGHT 20–26in (50–65cm) Any color
WEIGHT 26–51lb (12–23kg)
LIFE SPAN 11–12 years Hairless dogs always have pink skin
but the color of mottling can vary.

The true origins of the Peruvian Ears become Crest of hair
Inca Orchid are lost in time, but semierect on head
dogs of this type are known to have when alert
been important in Inca civilizations.
There are two varieties of this Straight back
breed: hairless and coated. The
hairless Inca Orchid is better
suited to indoor rather than
outdoor life because of
its delicate skin.

HAIRLESS INCA Pink with
ORCHID darker
mottling
Tail sometimes
carried tucked Front feet longer
under belly than hind feet

35

CATALOG OF BREEDS | PRIMITIVE DOGS

Peruvian Hairless

HEIGHT WEIGHT LIFE SPAN Blonde
Miniature: 10–16in (25–40cm) Miniature: 9–18lb (4–8kg) 11–12 years Dark brown
Medio: 16–20in (40–50cm) Medio: 18–26lb (8–12kg) Black
Grande: 20–26in (50–65cm) Grande: 26–55lb (12–25kg)
GRANDE

This gentle, bright, and agile dog is affectionate with LOST IN TIME
owners but may be shy when around strangers
The pre-Inca Nazca civilization of coastal Peru
Records of hairless dogs in South America National Patrimony of Peru. In 2008 is famous for producing the massive geoglyphs,
date back to pre-Inca times; images of a Peruvian Hairless was offered to known collectively as the Nazca Lines. Among
them are found on pottery dating from President Obama as a family pet. the various designs and shapes, there are over
750BCE. These lively and graceful dogs were 70 different animals, including a dog. Created
often seen in the homes of Incan nobility. Peruvian Hairless dogs come in three between 100–800CE and measuring 167ft (51m)
sizes—miniature, medio, and grande. in length, the dog’s outline was produced by
The Andean peoples believed these Hairlessness—often accompanied by the removing surface gravel to expose the lighter rocks
companion dogs brought good luck and absence of some molar and premolar below. It is possible that the dog depicted (below)
promoted health, and would hug them to teeth—is produced by a particular recessive represents an ancestor of the Peruvian Hairless.
relieve aches and pains. The dogs’ urine and gene, but occasionally dogs with coats do
feces may have been used in medicines. occur in litters. The fine skin needs some
When a person died, artifacts of hairless protection since these dogs are susceptible
dogs were sometimes buried with them to to the cold and easily sunburned.
keep the person company in the afterlife.
Crest of hairs
After the Spanish Conquest of Peru in the
16th century, hairless dogs were persecuted Rose ears
almost to extinction. However, some did
survive and since 2001 the Peruvian Hairless
has been a protected breed—part of the

Elephant-gray

Eyes match
skin color

Fine, elastic skin

Tucked-up belly MINIATURE
MEDIO Long feet

Pink patches
on legs

36

Xoloitzcuintli

HEIGHT WEIGHT LIFE SPAN Red
Miniature: 10–14in (25–35cm) Miniature: 5–15lb (2–7kg) Over 10 years Liver or Bronze (right)
Intermediate: 14–18in (36–45cm) Intermediate: 15–31lb (7–14kg)
Standard: 18–24in (46–60cm) Standard: 24–40lb (11–18kg) MINIATURE (PUPPY)

This calm-natured, alert dog is easy to care for and USEFUL COMPANION
makes a delightful and entertaining companion
Mexican Hairless dogs feel warm to the touch
Also known as the Mexican Hairless or Three sizes are now recognized: miniature, because, lacking fur, they radiate their body heat.
Xolo (pronounced sholo), hairless dogs have intermediate, and standard. Like all hairless In the past this attribute was appreciated by
featured in ceramic paintings and figurines dogs, this breed has limited general appeal farmers who used the dogs as bed-warmers.
dating from over 3,000 years ago and been and remains a rarity. Nonetheless, the The practice supposedly gave rise to the phrase
found in the tombs of Aztec, Mayan, and Mexican Hairless is good-tempered, “three dog nights” for very cold
other Central American peoples. affectionate, and highly intelligent. The evenings. The dog’s body heat
dogs are good companions and watchdogs, was also thought to have healing
In pre-Conquest Mexico hairless dogs and are starting to be used as service dogs properties and it would be held
were valued companions and bed-warmers. to provide relief for chronic pain—an echo against painful areas of the body
In addition, the dogs had sacred significance. of their traditional role. In addition, to provide a warm compress.
The animals were used as guard dogs to being hairless makes them good pets
protect the home from evil spirits as well for allergy sufferers. MEXICAN
as intruders, and they were thought to EARTHENWARE DOG
guide the soul through the underworld. Tufts of
Some dogs were sacrificed or ritually eaten hair on 100BCE–300CE
in religious ceremonies; because of these forehead
practices, hairless dogs barely escaped
extinction. It was not until the mid-20th Large, long ears,
century that breeders began to work erect when alert
toward the dog’s recovery.

Dark gray Head has slight stop
and tapering muzzle
Traces of dark
hair on tail Firm, slender neck

INTERMEDIATE Black
STANDARD

37

Rescue work
Baerli, a German Shepherd Dog,
explores a hole in the snow as part of
his training for avalanche search and
rescue work.

WORKING DOGS

WORKING
DOGS

The list of jobs that humans ask dogs to perform is almost endless. In the thousands of years since
dogs were domesticated, canine helpers have guarded homes, rescued people in danger, gone to
war, and looked after the sick and disabled—to give just a few examples. In this book the working
group is represented by breeds traditionally developed for pastoral work and guard duties.

In general, the dogs in this highly Australian Cattle Dog (see p.62) security forces and for guarding
diverse group tend to be large, though nip at heels, and some herders bark property. Typically, these dogs are
there are a few small but nonetheless as they work. Guardian sheepdogs, massively built and powerful, with
robust exceptions. Working dogs are which include mountain breeds such small ears (often cropped in countries
bred for strength and stamina, and as the Maremma (see p.69) and the where the practice is still legal) and
many of them are capable of living Great Pyrenees (see p.78), are pendulous flews (lips).
outdoors in all weathers. designed to protect their flocks from
predators such as wolves. Usually very Many working breeds are excellent
A collie rounding up its flock is for large, many of these dogs are white, as companion dogs. Pastoral herders
most people the archetypal shepherd heavy-coated, and scarcely are extremely intelligent and generally
dog, but many other types of dog distinguishable from the sheep they easy to train, and often enjoy using
are used to work with livestock. live with and protect all their lives. their skills in agility trials and other
These pastoral breeds, as they are canine competitions. Livestock
known, are used for both herding Guard duties of another kind are guardian dogs, because of their size
and guarding. Herding dogs have often carried out by dogs of the mastiff and protective nature, are less likely
a natural instinct for driving stock, type, recognizable as descendants of to be suited to family life. In recent
though not all of them work in the the enormous molossus dogs seen in decades a number of the mastiff-type
same way. Border Collies (see p.51), friezes and artifacts from the ancient breeds have achieved great popularity
for example, keep their sheep in world. Such breeds as the Bullmastiff as companions. Although some were
order by stalking and staring, while (see p.94), the Dogue de Bordeaux (see produced originally for fighting, if
the traditional cattle herders such as p.89), and the Neapolitan Mastiff reared in the home and socialized
Welsh Corgis (see pp.58, 60) and the (see p.92) are used worldwide by early they adapt to life as a pet.

39

CATALOG OF BREEDS | WORKING DOGS

Saarloos Wolfdog Wedge-shaped,
wolflike head
HEIGHT 24–30in (60–75cm) Cream
WEIGHT 77–88lb (35–40kg) Bos (brown) Almond-
LIFE SPAN Over 10 years shaped
eyes
The Saarloos Wolfdog is the result of selective crossbreeding to Triangular ears with
produce a German Shepherd-type dog with natural traits closer rounded tips Wolf-gray
to those of its wolf ancestors. Although it was suggested that
this new breed could be useful as a guide dog, Long,
the Saarloos Wolfdog arched feet
has proved better
suited to life as a
pet and companion.
However, it needs
sensitive handling.

Body longer than
leg length

Heavy-coated,
broad tail

Czechoslovakian King Shepherd Black Black dogs may
Wolfdog
HEIGHT 25–29in (64–74cm) Sable with have red, gold, or
HEIGHT 24–26in (60–65cm) WEIGHT 90–145lb (41–66kg)
WEIGHT 44–57lb (20–26kg) LIFE SPAN 10–11 years black markings cream markings.
LIFE SPAN 12–16 years
Developed in the US and recognized since the late 1990s, this
Created through breeding programs that initially crossed large and handsome dog clearly shows the German Shepherd
German Shepherd Dogs with wolves, the Czechoslovakian Dog (see p.42) in its breeding history. King Shepherds love to
Wolfdog has inherited many of the traits of its wild ancestors. work as herders or guard dogs, but have a placid and tolerant
This breed is quick, fearless, resilient, and wary of nature that allows them to fit in well with a family. There are
strangers. It is also faithful and obedient with
familiar handlers, qualities that make two coat types: smooth and rough.
it an excellent house dog.
Black saddle Ruff of longer hair
Yellowish gray with tan around neck
Distinctive lighter
Predominately
area on face black muzzle

Straight
coat

Dark nails Plumed tail White
marking
Weather-resistant, on chest
thick coat

ROUGH-COATED

40

WORKING DOGS

Laekenois Belgian Sheepdog

HEIGHT 22–26in (56–66cm) HEIGHT 22–26in (56–66cm)
WEIGHT 55–65lb (25–29kg) WEIGHT 51–75lb (23–34kg)
LIFE SPAN Over 10 years LIFE SPAN Over 10 years

Of the four breeds of Belgian Shepherd Dog, this From 1893 black-coated Belgian Sheepdogs were selectively

wiry-coated variety was the first to be developed, Head carried bred at a kennel in the village of Groenendael, near Brussels.
high with alert
in the 1880s. The Laekenois is named after the This handsome variety is now extremely popular. Like
expression
Château de Laeken, near Antwerp, and was once most herding dogs, the Belgian Sheepdog needs an Finely shaped
owner who understands the importance of early muzzle
much favored by the Belgian royal family. Rarely

seen, this delightful dog deserves to be more socializing and firm but kindly control.

widely appreciated. Wiry coat Long, straight
coat
Area of darker
High-set, shading Ruff of Slightly
erect ears longer hair sloping rump
around neck

Reddish Long Black
fawn feathering
Body powerful
but not heavy Round feet on legs

Belgian Malinois Belgian Tervuren

HEIGHT 22–26in (56–66cm) Gray HEIGHT 22–26in (56–66cm) Gray
WEIGHT 60–65lb (27–29kg) Red WEIGHT 40–65lb (18–29kg) All colors have black overlay.
LIFE SPAN Over 10 years All colors have black overlay. LIFE SPAN Over 10 years

Believed to have originated in Malines, in Belgium, the The most popular of the Belgian Shepherd Dogs worldwide,
Malinois is a short-haired variety of the Belgian Shepherd Dog. this variety was named after the village where it was developed
Like its fellow breeds, it is a natural guard dog. Although its by a local breeder. The Belgian Tervuren has strong protective
behavior may be unpredictable, with responsible instincts and is frequently used for guarding and police
training the Malinois socializes well and makes work. Its beautiful, black-tipped coat sheds regularly
a loyal companion.
and needs plenty of grooming.
Short, straight coat Triangular ears,
with black tips mostly black Strongly muscled back
to the hairs

Fawn with
black overlay

Almond- Black ears
shaped, and mask

brown
eyes

Distinctive Abundant
black mask breeches on
hindquarters

Fawn

Rich, long
coat

Darker tip
on bushy tail

41



WORKING DOGS

German Shepherd Dog CANINE SUPERSTAR

HEIGHT WEIGHT LIFE SPAN Sable Rescued from a WWI battlefield by US Marine
23–25in 49–88lb Over 10 years Black Lee Duncan, Rin Tin Tin (below) was taken to
(58–63cm) (22–40kg) California where Duncan trained him for film
work. He starred in 28 Hollywood films and
One of the most popular breeds worldwide, this intelligent became so popular that in 1929 he received the
and versatile herding dog makes a faithful companion most votes for the Best Actor Oscar. However,
the Academy, fearing that giving the award to
This breed was developed by a German dog and tracker, and is used by police and an animal would undermine their credibility,
cavalry captain, Max von Stephanitz, from armed forces worldwide. It is also employed instead gave it to the runner-up. Rin Tin Tin
dogs used to guard and herd livestock. The as a search and rescue dog and as a guide dog died in 1932, but some of his descendants,
first examples appeared in the 1880s, and for blind people. trained by Duncan, also appeared in movies.
the breed was registered in Germany as the
Deutsche Schäferhund (German Shepherd The modern breed has a coat that can
Dog) in 1899; the first registered individual vary from long to short. The German
dog was a male named Horand von Grafrath. Shepherd Dog has a reputation for being
fierce, but dogs produced by reputable
During World War I the dog’s name was breeders usually have a steady temperament.
changed in the UK to Alsatian. This new These dogs need to be handled in a calm,
name was chosen because the first dogs authoritative way so that they will not
were brought back from Alsace-Lorraine become overly dominant, but they are brave
by soldiers that had served there, and also and willing to learn. They need plenty of
because the name avoided reference to exercise and do well at jobs such as protecting
Germany; for the same reason, in the US the home. If responsibly handled, they will
its name was changed to Shepherd Dog. become loyal, faithful members
Soldiers from both countries were impressed of the family.
by the breed’s abilities.
Head has clean-cut
Highly adaptable and obedient, appearance
the German Shepherd Dog has
proved valuable as a guard

PUPPY Large, firm,
erect ears

Bicolor

Croup Black and tan
slopes slightly
downward to tail Dense coat with
thick undercoat

Strong
hindquarters

Black blanket Long forelegs LONG-
SHORT-HAIRED straight to HAIRED
elbow

Bushy tail

43

CATALOG OF BREEDS | WORKING DOGS

Picardy Sheepdog Finely shaped head
hidden by long hair
HEIGHT 22–26in (55–65cm) Dark gray
WEIGHT 51–71lb (23–32kg) Fawn-brindle Hair on
LIFE SPAN 13–14 years May have white markings. muzzle forms
mustache and
The history of the Picardy High-set, Fawn
Sheepdog is uncertain, but erect ears beard
this tough-looking breed may Thick coat,
have originated over a century Long eyebrows do coarse and Lighter hair
ago in the Picardy region of not obscure eyes rough to touch on chest
northeastern France. With
quiet and patient training,
this dog makes a sociable
companion and a good
playmate for children.
The rugged coat
is relatively easy
to groom.

Long tail curves
slightly at tip

Dutch Shepherd Dog

HEIGHT 22–24in (55–62cm) Fawn-brindle Coarse eyebrows
WEIGHT 66–68lb (30–31kg)
LIFE SPAN 12–14 years SHORT-HAIRED

Not often seen outside the Netherlands, and relatively uncommon

even there, in the last 200 years this breed has become far more

than an all-purpose farm dog. The breed has been used for Silver-brindle

security and police work, as a guide dog, and in obedience trials.

Reliable and affectionate with family members, it has a natural

wariness of strangers. There are three varieties

of the Dutch Shepherd Dog: long-haired,

short-haired, and rough-haired. Erect ears

Feathering on Coarse, wavy coat
underside of tail ROUGH-HAIRED

Light feathering
on back of legs

Shorter hair below
hock on hind legs

LONG-HAIRED

44

Mudi Fawn Brown WORKING DOGS
Blue merle, ash
HEIGHT 15–19in (38–47cm) May have white markings. Erect ears Black
WEIGHT 18–29lb (8–13kg) covered with
LIFE SPAN 13–14 years thick hair Bushy
Wedge-shaped eyebrows
Originally used as a working dog by Hungarian head
sheep- and cattle-herders, this rare breed is tough, Salt and
bold, and energetic. With its Feathered pepper
friendly and adaptable nature, backs to legs Short, wiry
the Mudi makes a good house coat
dog. It needs plenty of exercise to Lighter-
stay fit and healthy, and responds colored hair
well to sympathetic training. on lower legs

Shorter hair 45
below hock

Dense, shiny,
wavy coat

Standard Schnauzer

HEIGHT 18–20in (45–50cm) Black
WEIGHT 31–44lb (14–20kg)
LIFE SPAN Over 10 years

The medium-sized Standard Schnauzer was established Straight back

as a breed in the 1880s in southern Germany. Alert and Longer hair extends
over feet
agile, the Standard Schnauzer was used primarily as a

versatile farm dog with a formidable

reputation for rat hunting. High-set,
Placid and affectionate, but drop ears

with a lively sense of fun,

the breed is now popular

as a family dog.

Lighter-colored
beard

CATALOG OF BREEDS | WORKING DOGS

Giant Schnauzer

HEIGHT WEIGHT LIFE SPAN Pepper and salt
24–28in 65–90lb Over 10 years
(60–70cm) (29–41kg)

Even-tempered, intelligent, and easy to train, this SAFE AND SOUND
powerful dog has strong guarding instincts
This stamp, issued in East Germany in the late
Robust and powerfully built, the Giant US in the 1930s and to the UK in the 1960s. 1970s, shows a typical working Giant Schnauzer
Schnauzer from southern Germany was The breed has become more popular in the with clipped ears and a docked tail. In the years
developed from the standard Schnauzer (see US and Europe since the 1970s. leading up to World War I, the Giant Schnauzer
p.45) by crossing with larger local dogs and, was found to be well suited to police work—
it is thought, with breeds such as the Great The Giant Schnauzer is now widely used its large size and impressive bark proving an
Dane (see p.96) and the Bouvier des by security forces in Europe as a police dog excellent deterrent to trouble. Despite the
Flandres (opposite). and for tracking and search and rescue breed’s popularity in Germany, the preferred
duties. An equable temperament also makes choice for this type of work in other countries
The Giant Schnauzer, with its powerful it suitable as a home watchdog and family tended to be
frame and weather-resistant coat, was pet. Despite its size, the Giant Schnauzer the German
originally used for farm work and for is easy to manage if given plenty of exercise. Shepherd.
herding and driving cattle. By the early 20th A quick learner, it excels at obedience and
century the breed’s intelligence, trainability, agility activities. Its dense, wiry, double- EAST GERMAN
and impressive appearance had been layered coat needs regular maintenance, STAMP ISSUED
recognized as ideal qualities for a guard dog. with daily grooming and trimming
Giant Schnauzers were first brought to the (shaping) every few months. LATE 1970S

Dark eyes

Bushy eyebrows
overhang eyes

Drop ears with
rounded tips

Tail carried Black Dense,
high wiry coat

Bearded Strong,
muzzle graceful neck

Deep chest

Slight feathering
on back of forelegs

46

Bouvier des Flandres

HEIGHT WEIGHT LIFE SPAN Variety of colors
23–27in 60–88lb Over 10 years May have small, white star on chest.
(59–68cm) (27–40kg)

PRESIDENTIAL DOGS Loyal and fearless, this independent dog does well in town or
country but needs plenty of space and an experienced owner
One of the largest dogs to live at the White
House was Lucky, a Bouvier des Flandres puppy The Bouvier breeds were developed in at the Olympic Show in Antwerp, Belgium,
given to Nancy Reagan in December 1984. Belgium and northern France for herding, in 1920, he was recognized as the ideal type
As Lucky matured, she also became stronger guarding, and driving cattle; the French of Bouvier. During the 1920s breeders
and more boisterous. She started to drag the word bouvier means cowherd. Of the worked to resurrect the Bouvier des Flandres.
president around during press photo shoots various Bouviers, the Bouvier des Flandres
(below), which did not give the impression of a is the most commonly encountered. Today the breed is valued as a guard dog
leader in control. In November 1985 Lucky was and a family pet. Calm and easy to train, it
sent to live at the Reagans’ California ranch and During World War I they were used nevertheless has strong protective instincts
was replaced by a smaller, more manageable as messenger dogs and ambulance dogs and is still used for military and police
English Toy Spaniel named Rex. (guiding medical helpers to wounded men), work, and as a search and rescue dog. Despite
but Flanders was devastated by the fighting, originally being an outdoor dog, the Bouvier
and the breed itself was almost destroyed. des Flandres can adjust to an urban home,
One dog that survived was a male named as long as it has plenty of exercise every day.
Nic, which became a founding sire of the The coat needs to be groomed several times a
modern breed. When Nic was presented week and trimmed every three months.

High-set,
drop ears

Heavily Silver-brindle
feathered tail

Long,
coarse beard

Very thick coat, Dense coat
coarse to touch extends
over feet

47

CATALOG OF BREEDS | WORKING DOGS

Bouvier des Ardennes Ears slightly
darker than body
HEIGHT 20–24in (52–62cm) Variety of colors
WEIGHT 49–77lb (22–35kg) Body length equals
LIFE SPAN Over 10 years leg length

This hardy, active, former cattle herder from the Belgian

Ardennes is now rarely seen, either as a working dog or a house dog.

A handful of enthusiasts have kept the breed in existence, and with

its adaptable temperament and zest for life the Bouvier des

Ardennes has the potential Black-
edged
for future popularity. lips

Erect,
pointed
ears

Black Coarse mustache
and beard

Fawn Tousled coat,
dry to touch

Rounded
feet

Croatian Sarplaninac Any solid color
Shepherd Dog
HEIGHT Over 23in (58cm)
HEIGHT 16–20in (40–50cm) WEIGHT 66–99lb (30–45kg)
WEIGHT 29–44lb (13–20kg) LIFE SPAN 11–13 years
LIFE SPAN 13–14 years
Formerly known as the Illyrian Shepherd Dog, this impressive

breed is now named after the Sarplanina Mountains of Macedonia

Relatively small and lightly built for a shepherd where it originated. The Sarplaninac is very much an outdoor,
dog, this breed is active and alert. Easy to train for
work, the Croatian Shepherd Dog may be harder Narrow working dog. Although it has a sociable though protective
to handle as a house dog because of its natural muzzle
herding and guarding instincts. Its unusually
wavy or curly coat is a distinctive feature. temperament, its size and energy levels make it impractical

as a family pet. Drop ears

Heavily Longer hair
feathered, forms ruff
bushy tail
around neck

Brown

Erect, triangular ears, Black Broad, slightly
lined with long hair Wavy coat rounded top
to head
Short hair
on face

Shorter Backs of Long, Lighter
hair on legs slightly dense coat lower legs
lower legs feathered

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