Readily recognized by his noble and dignified expression of solemnity, wisdom and power, and loose, long pendulous folds of skin around the head and neck, the Bloodhound is one of the most docile of pure breeds but his determination in following a scent trail is legendary. Known as the breed whose “nose has eyes”, police departments world-wide have utilised the skill of the the Bloodhound and one dog was credited with over 600 arrests. They have been known to follow a trail successfully for over 250 kilometres.

Extremely affectionate, his nature is somewhat reserved and sensitive to either praise or correction from his owner. Bloodhounds are quick to learn but may prove obstinate in formal obedience training.

Prone to drool, the swing of a Bloodhound‘s enormous head can spread saliva across a room and his enormous size, food requirements and short lifespan make him a questionable choice for the average owner but for those who admire this breed, there can be no more devoted companion.

Ideal height

Dogs 63-69cm
Females 58 -63cm
Weight Dogs 41- 50kg
Females 36-45kg

An intelligent and alert and attentive dog, the Belgian Shepherd originally was bred for his herding ability and was fairly common throughout most of Europe. Originally a mixture of types, colours and coat lengths, the breed gradually developed into four main types which are named after the districts to which they were native.

The Groenendael is perhaps the most commonly known of the four varieties. His colour is always black, with a small patch or strip of white allowed on the chest and the tips of the toes. His coat is of medium harshness, long, straight and abundant on the body, with shorter hair on the head, outside of ears and lower part of the legs. The hair is especially long and abundant on the neck forming a ruff, particularly in the males.

The Tervueren is identical in conformation and coat to the Groenendael, the difference being in colour. All shades of red, fawn, grey with a black overlay are allowed. A black mask on the face extending to the eyes and black ears make the Tervueren a striking dog.

The Malinois is identical in conformation and colouring to the Tervueren but has a short, thick coat.

The Laekenois is identical in conformation to the other three breeds but is a reddish fawn colour with a black overlay and a harsh, wiry coat.

During World War I, thousands of Belgian Shepherds were trained as messengers and many lost their lives. Today the Belgian Shepherd Dogs are used for police work in Europe.

A highly trainable dog, the Belgian Shepherd excels at obedience work and makes a loyal family companion. Socialization must begin at an early age and his protective instincts make it necessary to supervise him with visitors or visiting children.

Ideal height:

Dogs 62cm
Females 58cm
Weight 30- 36kg

Keen of expression and with a swash-buckling attitude, the Airedale Terrier is the largest of the many terrier breeds and is often referred to as the “King of Terriers.”

He is also probably the most versatile of all terriers, having been bred to hunt fur and feather, retrieve over land and water, as well as being used as a pit fighter, ratter, herder, police dog, guide dog for the blind, plus messenger dog and sentry during the First World War.

It goes without saying that a dog with such multi skilled heritage excels at obedience, and is versatile in the extreme. The Airedale Terrier is noted for his courage, sportsman-like qualities and infinite patience, particularly with children. The correct temperament in puppyhood is one of discretion and, when mature, a certain dignified aloofness with strangers. With his own family, the Airedale is renowned for his deep-seated loyalty, engaging personality and sweetness of disposition. However it is not recommended that he be kept in the home with another dog of the same sex.

The Airedale enjoys exercise, requires combing on a regular basis, and will need his coat professionally trimmed every 4 to 5 months.

Ideal Height:
Dogs 58 to 61cm
Bitches 56 to 59cm
Weight: 20 – 26kg