An extremely ancient breed, of majestic appearance, the Chow Chow was originally used in China as a hunter and guard dog and, on occasion, for herding cattle or even pulling sledges. His meat was considered a delicacy, resulting in the Chow being bred for his flesh and fur, thereby earning him the name of “The Cantonese Butchers’ Dog.” As if that wasn’t bad enough, when the first Chow Chows went to England, they were kept in zoos.
Rather lion-like in appearance, the Chow Chow is a massive, powerful and imposing animal with a dense two ply coat, complete with a big ruff around his neck. His unique features include his blue-black tongue and gums, distinctive scowling expression, and peculiar stilted gait. more…
Developed in Germany to serve the multiple purposes of guard, working and escort dog, the Boxer is a strong, boisterous, active dog with a very positive personality. It is a very serviceable and utilitarian breed. To provide the necessary speed, dexterity and jumping ability required for the many arduous hikes, riding expeditions, plus varied police and military duty which characterized his working life, the Boxer needed to be an elegant but substantial dog of great power. This legacy has left us with a sound, no-frills animal, whose functional clean-cut lines are very pleasing to the eye.
Despite his imposing past and sombre expression, the Boxer is nevertheless the clown of the guard dogs. Although he takes his guard work very seriously, he is always ready to play – even in old age! more…
A “true blue” Aussie, the Australian Cattle Dog’s prime function is the movement and control of cattle in both confined and wide, open spaces. Always alert, extremely intelligent, watchful and courageous, this breed is a tribute to the ability of the Australian stockmen who knew what they wanted in a cattle dog and set about producing it.
Naturally suspicious of strangers, and retaining the protective instincts which made him such an invaluable guardian of the stockman and his herd, the Australian Cattle Dog is still very much a working dog, even when living in the suburbs. He likes to feel useful and is never happier than when he has a job to do, and requires physically and mentally challenging activities. Long walks, plenty of company, and an active lifestyle are necessary to keep this dog at his happiest. In a home where these needs are not met, the breed is likely to become destructive, noisy and dominant.
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