Tibetan Mastiffs are very devoted to their families. To avoid these dogs from growing up to become overly suspicious and anxious they should be trained to socialize with people and other animals from they are very young. Although these dogs are good with children, they tend to be wary around strange children.

The Origin of the Tibetan Mastiff Dogs

The Tibetan Mastiff originated in Tibet and their bloodline dates back to ancient times. Originally these dogs were mainly used as devoted guard dogs and even today their main purpose is to act as watchdogs and family pets.

Archaeological documents show that these dogs existed in China sometime around 1100 B.C. Some people believe that these dogs traveled with Attila the Hun and Genghis Khan, and that is how the breed started in Central Asia.

At that time, the nomadic people used these dogs as sentries to guard their villages, campsites and monasteries. These ‘sentries’ as they were called, were chained to rooftops and gates during the day and at night they were let loose to roam around freely so that they could guard the village.

During this time the breed was kept very isolated and was not known outside of Tibet. In 1874 the Viceroy of India sent one of these dogs to Queen Victoria as a gift. Then the Prince of Whales imported two of these dogs and entered them in a dog show. The popularity of the breed increased and so did their numbers. The Tibetan Breeds Association of England established a standard breed in 1931.

With the Chinese attack on Tibet during the 1950s the number of these dogs decreased dramatically. Fortunately, a number of these dogs survived, by escaping to neighboring countries and local mountains. In the United States several breeding programs for the Tibetan Mastiff were started during the 1970s. The Tibetan Mastiff Breed was officially recognized by the American Kennel Club in 2005.

Caring for the Tibetan Mastiff

The Tibetan Mastiff dogs are not only good watchdogs they are also very good house pets. When indoors these dogs can be very quiet and calm, but when they are outdoors they can be very active. A few brisk walks on the leash and vigorous playtime outdoors would be adequate exercise for these dogs.

These dogs do not only need a large yard to run around, but should be able to roam freely in an open area. If they do not have adequate space to run around these dogs can become bored and destructive and tend to dig a lot. The Tibetan Mastiff dogs do not do well in hot temperatures and should live in colder climates.

Because of these dogs’ heavy coats, they need to be brushed thoroughly two to three times a week.

Health Concerns for the Tibetan Mastiff Dogs

There is no major health problem connected to these dogs. Minor health problems may include canine inherited demyelinative neuropathy, seizures, and entropion.

It is recommended by veterinarians that these dogs be tested for potential hip and thyroid problems.

With proper care and attention a healthy Tibetan Mastiff can live between eleven and fourteen years.

The Origin of the Saint Bernard Dogs

It is believed that the roots of these dogs go back to the Roman Molossian dogs. It was in the mid 1600s that these dogs became known for literally saving lives.

At first these dogs were mostly used for small tasks such as pulling carts and being watchdogs. Then the monks in charge of the St. Bernard Hospice, a refugee camp for people traveling between Switzerland and Germany, found out that these dogs had a special gift of tracking down people who were lost in the icy mountains.

The Saint Bernard dogs were very good at finding these lost travelers and would lick his or her face which really helped in warming and reviving the person. These dogs performed this invaluable service for about three centuries and have saved at least about 2,000 lives.

A Saint Bernard named Barry is the most famous of these life savers, and is said to have saved about forty persons. At first these dogs were known by different names including “Hospice Dogs”. To honor Barry after he passed away, people started calling these dogs “Barryhound Dogs”.

During the early 1800’s the number of these dogs decreased dramatically due to inbreeding and disease. The severe weather that the Saint Bernards had to deal with was another cause of deaths among these dogs.

The Saint Bernard dogs that remained were crossed with the Newfoundland dogs during the 1830”s. This cross resulted with the long-haired version of the Saint Bernard. Instead of the long coat helping the dog in the cold, it actually caused a hindrance because the long strands of hair would freeze while the dog was traveling through the snow.

The Saint Bernard Dogs first came to England in1810 and were known at the time as the “Sacred Dog”. These dogs gained popularity and fifty years later became known as the St. Bernard.

Caring for the Saint Bernard Dog

In order to stay healthy and fit, these dogs require daily exercise. To meet the requirements it would be ideal if they get a few walks on the leash and playing around outdoors. Even Saint Bernard puppies need a fenced in yard where they can romp around during the day. If kept indoors these puppies may become overweight which could lead to hip problems.

These dogs do not do well in hot temperatures. They need to have cool temperatures all year round.

Both the long-hair version and the short-hair version of the Saint Bernard dogs need a thorough brushing at least once a week. If they are shedding they may need brushing more often. It is important to note that drooling is a common habit of these dogs.

Health Issues of the Saint Bernard Dogs

Some major health problems connected to these dogs are ectropion, osteosarcoma, CHD (Canine Hip Dysplasia), entropion, gastric torsion and elbow dysplasia. Some minor problems may include heart conditions, hot spots, CVI, diabetes, OCD, cardiomyopathy and seizures.

It is recommended by veterinarians that these dogs be tested for eye, cardiac, hip and elbow problems. With proper care and attention the Saint Bernard dog may live between eight to ten years.

The Origin of the Standard Schnauzer Dogs

The Standard Schnauzer Dogs originated in Germany and their bloodline goes as far back as the Middle Ages. These dogs were originally used as guard dogs and to catch rats. They are considered by their owners today, as loving and protective house dogs.

The Standard Schnauzer Dogs are one of the oldest of three Schnauzer Breeds that goes as far back as the 14^th century. During this period, these dogs were not only used for their services but were highly regarded as good companions and hunting dogs.

The Standard Schnauzer Dogs are a cross mixture of working dogs, Terriers and hunting stock. It is believed by researchers that a combination of the Gray Spitz, the Black German Poodle and the Wire-Haired Pinscher produced this breed. This cross mix produced a guard dog that was surprisingly skilled at catching rats.

By the turn of the 10^th century, these dogs became very popular with farmers who used them to keep rats away from their carts that were left unattended. In 1879, the Standard Schnauzer was entered as a Wirehaired Pinscher to participate in the German Dog Show. By the year 1900, dog enthusiasts, who were attracted to these dogs because of their intelligence, began to enter them in several dog shows.

It wasn’t until the early part of the 1900s that the Standard Schnauzer first arrived in the United States of America. In the beginning, these dogs were not very popular with dog enthusiasts. Originally, these dogs were classified as Terriers then later on they were classified as working dogs. To a great extent, during World War I, the Standard Schnauzers were used as police dogs.

Caring for the Standard Schnauzer Dogs

The Standard Schnauzer Dogs need to expend their energy every day to keep them happy. Because these dogs are very energetic, if they are not active they will be bored and become destructive. They need to play a lot of games outside, run around nature’s trails and take several brisk walks on the leash.

The Standard Schnauzer Dogs can withstand both cold and hot temperatures. They can live outside as long as these temperatures are not extreme but during the night they should be allowed to sleep inside the house with the family. These dogs need to be brushed thoroughly at least twice a week. They will also require trimming and shaping their coats about every four months.

Health Concerns for the Standard Schnauzer Dogs

Standard Schnauzer dogs are considered a very healthy breed of dogs so there is no major health problems connected to them. Minor health issues may include follicular dermatitis and CHD (Canine Hip Dysplasia). It is recommended by veterinarians that they be tested for potential hip problems. With proper care the Standard Schnauzer may live between twelve to fourteen years.

The Alaska Sweepstakes was a very popular race that covered a distance of 400 miles from Nome to Candle. In 1909, the Siberian Huskies got the opportunity to enter this race. These dogs were not popular during this time but one racer, who was very impressed by them, imported 70 of these dogs to train for the 1910 race. Surprisingly, three teams of the huskies that he entered in the race ended up winning first, second and fourth place. As a result, the Siberian Husky Dogs immediately became the dominating winners for future races.

The Siberian Husky Dogs showed up in Canada in 1925. It was soon after that time that these dogs showed up in the United States of America. In 1930, The American Kennel Club recognized the Siberian Huskies as an official Breed.

In World War II, many of these dogs were used by the US Army to serve along with soldiers in the army’s search and rescue missions. Because of this, they became very popular with dog enthusiasts. In time, the Siberian Huskies became regular house pets and today they are the most popular of any Arctic Breed of Dogs.

Caring for the Siberian Husky Dogs

The Siberian Husky Dogs are alert, independent, clever and very adventurous. They love to run long distances and if not properly trained, they would roam all over the place when left alone. The Siberian Husky Dogs behave well around other house pets, but when they are outdoors, they may become somewhat aggressive with strange dogs.

Physically, the Siberian Husky Dogs need a lot of exercise every day. Long jogs would be good but they would do well if they are allowed to run about where it is safe for them to roam freely. An active person would definitely enjoy having a Siberian Husky Dog for a companion.

They do well in cold temperatures, so they make very good pets for anyone that lives in a cold area. As part of their physical exercise, they love to pull sleds and other objects.

They need to be brushed thoroughly one or two times a week. Even though they have short coats, during the time that they experience heavy shedding, they will require brushing every day.

Health Concerns for the Siberian Husky Dogs

In general, the Siberian Huskies are very healthy dogs that do not have any major health problems. Some minor health problems that could arise, but are rare, would include hypothyroidism, PRA (Progressive Retinal Atrophy), corneal dystrophy and cataracts. The Siberian Husky Breed, if well cared for, could live up to 13 years.

The origin of the Samoyed Dogs

The Samoyed Breed of Dogs originated in Siberia, Russia and their bloodline dates as far back as ancient times. Originally they were used to herd reindeers and to be guard dogs. Today, the Samoyed Dogs are being used to herd animals and to pull sleds.

The Samoyed Dogs were named after the nomadic Samoyed people that came from Central Asia and settled in the Northwestern part of Siberia. The Samoyed people needed reindeer as food to be able to survive. The reindeer was always on the move in order to find food. The Samoyed Dogs were used to round up the reindeer in order to protect them from hungry predators.

Not only were the Samoyed Dogs used to guard herds of reindeer keeping them moving all the time to avoid Arctic predators from attacking them, but because they were very keen hunters, they were also used to hunt bears. These dogs were very good at towing boats and sleds too so, whenever necessary, they were used for this purpose. The Samoyed dogs were allowed to sleep with the children inside the villagers’ tents at night to help keep them warm.

It was in the late 1800s that the Samoyed Dogs arrived in England. Many of these early dogs were not all-white like the dogs we see today. Queen Alexandria immediately became so fond of a pure white Samoyed Dog that was given to her as a gift that she promoted the Samoyed’s beauty throughout the country. Even up to this day, you can find descendants of the Queen’s dogs in most of today’s pedigrees.

The Samoyed Breed arrived in the United States of America in the early 1900s. These dogs out- performed many other breeds that were used to pull, so right away they became very popular as sled pulling dogs. In fact, it was the Samoyed Dogs that were used for all the traveling when the South Pole was discovered.

Caring for the Samoyed Breed of dogs

The Samoyed Dogs require plenty of exercise every day. They would be very happy to be with families that lead an active lifestyle. In order to help these dogs to release some of their energy, they need brisk walks and vigorous playtime. What these dogs enjoy most is pulling and herding.

The Samoyed dogs are genetically bred to live in the arctic region, so they do not do well in hot temperatures but do very well in cold weather. They should be allowed to be outdoors during the day, but should sleep inside with the family at night. These dog’s thick coats need to be thoroughly brushed at least two to three times a week.

Health Concerns for the Samoyed Dogs

There are not many major health problems connected to these dogs. The only major problem is CHD (Canine Hip Dysplasia). Other minor problems that may come up include hypothyroidism, cataracts, and gastric torsion. It is recommended by veterinarians that all Samoyed dogs be tested for DNA, PRA (Progressive Retinal Atrophy), hip, eye and thyroid problems. With proper care and attention, Samoyed dogs may live for up to ten to twelve years.

Rottweiler dogs were brought to the United States in the early 1930s after which they were recognized by the American Kennel Club. Because there was not much use for this breed of dogs, they had become almost extinct. But today they have become one of the most popular household dogs. America’s Kennel Club ranks these dogs among the top ten most popular registered dogs.

Rottweiler dogs are very alert, bold and confident dogs. If you are looking for a watchdog with great protection abilities, then a Rottweiler dog is the dog for you. You have to remember though, that because these dogs are so courageous and aggressively confident they can also be stubborn, especially when undergoing training. If you choose to have one of these dogs as a household pet, the extra effort and time spent on its training is well worth it.

Care and Attention for the Rottweiler Dogs

The Rottweiler dogs, like most other large dogs need a lot of physical activities daily. Mental games and obedience training should be included in their daily routine. Long walks on the leash through safe areas should also be included in their daily exercise. These dogs also enjoy playing vigorous games.

These dogs do well in cold weather and actually enjoy the winter months. They do not do well with the hot humid temperatures of the summer months. If run too hard during the summer, it is easy for them to become overheated.

Rottweiler dogs can live both indoors and outdoors. If you choose to have your dog live outdoors, it is important that you provide your dog with plenty of shade and shelter especially during the summer months. It is well known that these dogs love to spend a lot of time with their owners indoors.

Health Concerns for the Rottweiler Dogs

Major health issues with the Rottweiler dogs include elbow dysplasia, SAS (Sub-Aortic Stenosis), CHD   (Canine Hip Dysplasia), and osteosarcoma. It is recommended that you have your dog tested for hip dysplasia, cardiac problems, VWD (Von Willerbrand’s Disease), and elbow dysplasia. The average healthy Rottweiler dog can live up to about 11 years.

These dogs need a lot of activity in their lives as they don’t like to be still for very long but like to play and run around outdoors.

Some facts about the Portuguese Water Dogs

These dogs originated in Portugal, hence their names. They are very focused and hard working. Taking into account their appearance, it is obvious that these dogs have some Poodle in their bloodline. In Portugal this breed of dogs is known as “Cao de Aqua”, which means “Water Dog”. There are two types of these dogs, the long-haired type and the curly-coated type.

The ancestors of the Portuguese Water Dogs originated from the central Asian steppes. People believe that these dogs came to Portugal in one of two possible ways, either from the Visigoths in the 5^th century or from the Berbers and Moors in the 8^th century.

Using these dogs as water dogs became very popular in Portugal. They were used as couriers from one boat to other boats or from a boat to the shore. Because they were very good retrievers, fishermen used them to fetch nets or other fishing equipment. Trawler crews who fished in the Iceland waters would also have these dogs work with them.

But in time with the amazing invention of technology, modern fishing methods were developed. As the old ways of doing things no longer existed, the use of these dogs decreased. The breed was almost extinct but was saved by the work of a man named Dr. Vasco Bensuade.

Dr. Bensuade who was a rich shipping magnate was very enthusiastic about the Portuguese Water Dogs. He promoted these dogs in different parts of the world. Dr. Bensuade reorganized the breed club and had these dogs presented in numerous dog shows. The Portuguese Water Dogs came to America in the 1950s, and were recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1984.

The Care of the Portuguese Water Dogs

It is believed that the Portuguese Water Dogs breed is perhaps one of the most energetic breed of dogs that exists today. With their boundless amount of energy, these dogs love to run, play, swim and retrieve.

It is very important that these dogs get daily exercise. These dogs can become frustrated and destructive if they are kept locked up inside the house.

The Portuguese Water Dogs do well in both hot and cold weather, but because they love to have human contact constantly, it is better for them to live inside with the family. Grooming these dogs requires that you brush them properly every other day. It is also recommended that they have professional clipping once a month.

Health Problems of the Portuguese Water Dogs

The only major health problem connected with these dogs is PRA (Progressive Retinal Atrophy).

Other minor health problems may include CHD (Canine Hip Dysplasia), GMI storage disease, Addison’s,  distichiasis, juvenile cardiomyopathy and hair loss.

Veterinarians believe that you should get your dog tested for DNA, GMI, and eye and hip problems. The Portuguese Water Dogs may live between ten and fourteen years.

During the middle part of the 19^th century, farmers were using these dogs to drive their sheep and cattle to the market. Because they were classified as working dogs, their owners did not have to pay dog taxes for them. But the owners had to prove that these dogs were working dogs, so one way to prove it, was to cut off the end of their tails also known as tail docking. Even to this day, tail docking has remained a practice and for this reason they have nicked named the dog “Bobtail”.

During the latter part of the 1800’s, a show was held where the Old English Sheepdog participated. As a result, in the early part of the 1900’s, these dogs became a popular dog exhibit.  But it wasn’t until 1905 that they were officially recognized by the AKC (American Kennel Club).

Even though it took a while for these dogs to become known as house pets, during the 1970’s, the Old English Sheepdog became so popular that a lot of people brought them home and added them as a member of the family. This increase in popularity was because these dogs were being used in different roles in advertising and other media outlets.

Characteristics of the Old English Sheepdog

The Old English Sheepdog is usually a gentle well mannered happy-go-lucky dog. This breed of dog loves to be around people and when they are at home they are always trying to amuse members of the family by being comical and jovial.

Since these dogs are genetically gifted for herding flock, they display the same attitude towards the children in their household showing very high levels of loyalty and protection. Old English Sheepdogs are very affectionate and are very friendly to strangers and also to other pets.

Caring for your Old English Sheepdog

The Old English Sheepdog, just like any other dog, requires daily exercise. This can be done by taking long walks or medium-paced jogs on the leash. Living on a farm or on a large piece of land with other animals would be the ideal place for these dogs who truly enjoy herding.

The Old English Sheepdog does not prosper well during hot weather, but can live outdoors when the weather is cool so make sure that it can always move in and out of the house. Because they have a thick coat, they require regular grooming and you should make sure to brush them at least every other day to avoid their coat from matting. This will help their coat from picking up dirt and debris.

Health Information

With this breed of dog, the main health problem is CHD (Canine Hip Dysplasia). Other minor health problems that could affect them are gastric torsion, hypothyroidism, cerebellar ataxia, otitis externa, deafness, retinal detachment, cataracts and PRA (Progressive Retinal Atrophy).

• Height (at the shoulders): dogs: 26 – 30 inches (65 – 75 cm) ; bitches: 24 – 28 inches (60 – 70 cm)
• Weight: 165 – 200 pounds
• Life Expectancy:  up to 10 years
• AKC Group: Working Group – AKC recognized in 2004
• Shedding: average shedder
• Living Conditions: okay in apartment (with sufficient exercise); relatively inactive indoors; small yard will do.

Personality of the Neapolitan Mastiff Dog Breed

The Neapolitan Mastiff is duly noted for its loyalty and devotion to its family.  As a result of being bred for centuries as a family guard dog, it is extremely reserved and suspicious of strangers. Needless to say, it is one of the highest rating watchdogs that can equally protect its family due to its size and fighting ability. The Neapolitan Mastiff is affectionate towards children but may be dominant towards other dogs and house pets.

History of the Neapolitan Mastiff Dog Breed

This is one dog that is extremely heavy-bodied and has a strong, powerful grip. These types of dogs have been traced back to the Middle East and Asia where they functioned as war dogs. Their jobs were to guard homes, control livestock, and even fight men and large animals in battle, such as elephants and lions.

The modern day Neapolitan Mastiff is said to be connected to giant Macedonian war dogs that Alexander the great mixed with short-haired dogs of India. The time was approximately 330 BC. The resulting bloodline was called the Molossus, which is considered to be the progenitor to many large dog breeds of today.

The history then becomes a bit more interesting.  The Romans took over Greece and at the same time took all of their Molossus dogs. Then in 55 BC the Romans invaded and conquered Britain.  The British had large and imposing Mastiff dogs that the Romans admired. These dogs fought valiantly during war.

As you can probably guess these two dogs were bred together and created a super breed of giant war dogs that were called “Mastini” which is the Italian word for Mastiff. The breed continued to expand its members and were perfected over centuries of well functioning guard dogs. However, they were quite isolated and remained unknown to much of the rest of the world.

In 1946 they were introduced to the world at a Naples dog show.  A man named Piere Scanziani saw the dog and immediately recognized what type of breed it was.  He started a campaign to influence other dog fanciers to help bring out the breed from obscurity.  They went as far as drawing up a petition so that the Italian Kennel Club would recognize them under the name of “Mastino Napoletano”.

It was not until the 1970s when this dog breed was documented in the United States.  There were of course a few of these dogs that were already in the U.S. from Italian immigrants, but nothing was official until the 70′s.  It did not take long for the breed to become popular and gain interest from dog enthusiasts.

The breed was officially registered by the American Kennel Club in 2004.

The Neapolitan Mastiff Dog Breed Care and Grooming

Neapolitan Mastiff dogs will need a lot of space.  This is one dog that is literally huge in size and must have enough room to roam around without being squeezed in.  As far as exercise and physical requirements to, they do not need much.  A simple walk on the leash will do just fine. Consider also that the large size of the Neapolitan Mastiff will require higher expenses in terms of food and veterinarian visits. They also tend to drool a lot and can be quite messy with its food and water.

Health Problems of the Neapolitan Mastiff Dog Breed

The average lifespan of a healthy Neapolitan Mastiff is approximately 10 years. Larger dogs tend to have shorter life spans than smaller ones.

Major health concerns for this breed are:

• demodicosis
• CHD (Canine Hip Dysplasia)
• cardiomyopathy

Minor health issues include:

• elbow dysplasia
• cherry eye

Image courtesy of Wikipedia

• Height (at the shoulders): dogs: 30 inches and up (76 cm) ; bitches: 67 inches and up (69 cm)
• Weight: dogs: 160 pounds (72 kg)  ; bitches: 150 pounds (68 kg); some male Mastiffs have been know to reach 200 pounds
• Life Expectancy: 10 – 12 years
• AKC Group: Working Group – AKC recognized in 1885
• Shedding: average shedder
• Living Conditions: okay in apartment (with sufficient exercise); relatively inactive indoors; okay with a small yard

Personality of the Mastiff Dog Breed

The Mastiff is a particularly large breed of dog that is surprisingly easy going, good-natured, calm, and gentle. He is a well mannered animal that can fit well in most any household.

If you have a family with children in the house then owning a Mastiff would make an excellent choice as he is known to be utterly devoted and loyal to its owners, and great with little kids. This dog has high affection levels and gets along great with other pets.

Another positive aspect of the Mastiff is that he makes an excellent watchdog with the ability to protect the family with strength and quickness.

History of the Mastiff Dog Breed

The Mastiff originated in Britain. The breed is very old and seems to go as far back as 3000 B.C. Soldiers used them as war dogs as far back as 55 B.C.

One story says that Caesar took a pack of Mastiffs back to Rome and put the dogs on display in the gladiator arena. There they were forced to fight with human gladiators, lions, bears, and other dogs.

They later became a popular dog among the English peasants who used them as guard dogs.

Like many other dog breeds, they were almost extinct by the time World War II ended.

The breed was officially registered by the American Kennel Club in 1885 as a member of the Working Group.

The Mastiff Dog Breed Care and Grooming

When the Mastiff becomes an adult, they need a mild amount of daily exercise. A good 10 to 15 minute brisk walk would do just fine.  Better yet are physical games in a fenced yard if you have the opportunity to own such a property.

This dog can live both indoors and outdoors. If you choose to keep your Mastiff outdoors then it should be noted that this breed is not fond of hot weather at all. He thrives on cooler temperatures so be sure to afford him the luxury of plenty of shade during the hot summer months if he is to be kept outside. However, the ideal living situation for a happy Mastiff is to be inside with his family as this dog is genetically geared towards protecting its pack.

Health Problems of the Mastiff

The average life expectancy of the Mastiff breed is about ten to twelve years.

Major health concerns for this breed are:

• CHD (Canine Hip Dysplasia)
• gastric torsion
• prone to bloat

Minor health issues include:

• elbow dysplasia
• cystinuria
• osteosarcoma
• cardiomyopathy
• vaginal hyperplasia
• PPM (Persistent Pupillary Membrane)
• PRA (Progressive Retinal Atrophy)

Veterinarians recommend having the Mastiff dog breed tested specifically for eye problems, thyroid, elbow dysplasia, and hip dysplasia.

Image courtesy of Wikipedia