Tag: dog breeds

Behind the Breed: Saint Bernards

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Known for their imposing bulk but lovable personalities, Saint Bernards are celebrated for their daring rescues in the Alpine mountains. Along with their heroic adventures in the Swiss Alps, Saint Bernards are some of the most famous dogs on the silver screen. Saint Bernards played the roles of Beethoven, Cujo and Nana (from Peter Pan). That’s one talented breed!

Saint Bernard History Starts with St. Bernard

The story of the Saint Bernard dog breed began in Switzerland a long, long, long time ago in the Middle Ages. A monk named Bernard of Menthon, who later became St. Bernard (see the connection?), started a hospice for people traveling over the Alps on their way to Rome. The Great Saint Bernard Pass can still be traveled today, although only for a few months of the year.

Saint Bernards Started as Search and Rescue Dogs

Around six centuries later (no one’s sure of the exact date), monks at the hospice started using working dogs to help them while they were out finding lost travelers — and so the Alpine rescue dog was born. Those hospice dogs were the ancestors of today’s Saint Bernards, although they were all short-haired Saint Bernards until around 1830. The Saint Bernard Club of America was established in 1888.

Nowadays other breeds are used as avalanche rescue dogs, too. Agile breeds with a strong hunting drive, like Labrador retrievers, golden retrievers and German shepherds or their crosses, are commonly used. Other breeds like border collies and Australian shepherds are also trained for search and rescue work.

A Saint Bernard’s Size Can Be Intimidating

If we were to describe two obvious Saint Bernard characteristics, it would be that they’re massive dogs and massively drooly. As one of the largest dog breeds, most Saint Bernards measure 26–30 inches at the shoulder, and males can weigh up to 180 pounds as adult dogs. The American Kennel Club breed standard for the Saint Bernard lists phrases like “extraordinarily muscular,” “very powerful” and “imposing.” These muscular dogs will certainly tower over many other dogs at the dog park!

Lots of Drool and Hair, Everywhere

So. Much. Drool. A Saint Bernard owner will rarely leave the house without the drool rag to clean the loose lips and skin that hangs down from their dog’s mouth. A bandana or bib can also be a handy accessory for a Saint Bernard to catch some of that drool. If you remember that they’re the Beethoven dog breed, you’ll understand why!

Both long- and short-haired Saint Bernards shed, especially in spring and fall. Daily brushing of their coat can help keep their loose hair under control during the shedding season. With all of this hair and drool, make sure you have your household cleaning supplies handy!

Saint Bernard Pups Need the Right Nutrition

Like other dogs in the large breed category, a Saint Bernard puppy needs appropriate nutrient levels to fuel their larger growing bodies. Rapid growth isn’t healthy for the bones and joints of large breeds, and extra body weight can stress their immature and growing skeleton.

If Saint Bernard puppies are overfed and don’t maintain a healthy weight, they could be at an increased risk for developmental orthopedic conditions, like hip dysplasia. To help avoid these issues, look for a puppy food that’s complete and balanced to promote a steady, healthy growth rate.

Watch Out for Large Breed Health Problems

Saint Bernards are large and deep-chested dogs, which means they are at a greater risk for bloat or gastric dilatation-volvulus (GDV), which is a life-threatening condition. GDV occurs when the stomach becomes gas-filled, distended and twisted on itself, resulting in an obstruction.

Hip dysplasia can occur in older dogs and may require surgery. Saint Bernards are also at risk of developing entropion, which is when the eyelid rolls inward toward the eye. Taking your Saint Bernard for regular veterinary checkups can help prevent potential medical issues or catch them early.

A Giant Breed with a Giant Amount of Love to Give

These large dogs can be intimidating, but the Saint Bernard temperament is second to none. It’s why Saint Bernards make such great family dogs!

While socialization, puppy training classes and obedience training are recommended so that they don’t develop bad habits, the inherent personalities of Saint Bernards make them lovable giants. They’re gentle with children; however, their size could cause them to accidentally knock over small children. So watch them around young children — especially that giant tail!

Is the Saint Bernard Dog Breed for You?

If you don’t mind getting slobbered on and you enjoy cuddles with a giant ball of love, the Saint Bernard could be the perfect breed for you. They don’t require as much exercise as you would expect from such a large dog, and they love to hang out with their family!

Behind the Breed: The Noble Basset Hound

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Arguably no breed of dog cuts a more distinctive profile than the basset hound. Their short stature and long ears are as identifiable as it gets.

The breed name is also descriptive. “Basset,” is derived from the French word “bas,” which means “low” (as in “to the ground”), and “hound” conveys that their sense of smell is “houndlike,” second only to their cousin the bloodhound.

Basset hounds enjoy a long and rich history. Records show that the short and mighty breed originates in France and Belgium and descends from a long line of hounds dating back to the sixth century. St. Hubert, the patron saint of hunters, is believed to have taken an interest in creating a scent hound, so he carefully bred several ancient hound breeds in his Benedictine abbey. The name, St. Hubert Hound, caught on around 1000 A.D., and they quickly spread throughout Europe.

The first mention of a “basset” dog appeared in an illustrated French hunting text written by Jacques de Flouilloux in 1585. The dogs in Fouilloux’s guide were used to hunt foxes and badgers, making the basset a perfect hunting companion. Bassets became popular during the reign of Emperor Napoleon III: their sad but regal looks were perfect for Paris salons in the mid- to late 1800s.

The Nose Knows

Basset hounds have a powerful sense of smell and enjoy doing nose work. With more than 220 million smell receptors, they’re officially the second-best sniffing dog breed. But their noses don’t do it alone; their ears and short stature help! Those long ears pick up scents by dragging on the ground and pushing them toward the nose, and are augmented by folds of skin, or dewlaps, that trap the scent and enhance it.

Basset coats are soft and smooth and can come in any “hound color” from black and tan to tricolored, brown or red. They are generally 15 inches or shorter at the shoulders and are known for their headstrong personalities — once they get a scent, that’s all they’ll think about!

Maintenance Required!

Those droopy ears and eyes need to be cleaned regularly, and particular attention should be paid to their spines, which can be damaged if a basset is carrying too much weight and gets too physical. They also need a little help jumping into cars or onto the sofa.

While great at the hunting they were bred for, bassets are great pets for families of any type. They are very vocal and highly social around other animals and people and make a wonderful family pet.

An interior graphic detailing five quick facts about basset hounds.

Behind the Breed: Golden Retrievers

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One of the most popular dog breeds in the United States for decades, golden retrievers have a rich history that originates in the Scottish Highlands. The golden retriever is a highly adaptable and all-around sporting dog known for their affectionate temperaments and luxurious golden coats.

In the late 19th century, Sir Dudley Marjoribanks, who later became the first Baron Tweedmouth, sought to create the definitive retriever for rainy weather. The baron crossed a “yellow retriever” with a Tweed water spaniel and set out to develop a medium-sized breed with a water-repellant coat that was serious about hunting waterfowl and game. And so, the golden retriever was born. Literally.

Goldens were first recognized by the American Kennel Club as “Flat-coated Retriever, Golden” in 1903 and soon caught on as outstanding performance and conformation (dog show) event contenders. The official breed standard states that a goldens’ head should be strong and sturdy with dark eyes, short ears and a broad muzzle that is often described as “soft,” for the way they carry game, toys, sticks or even clothing without damaging whatever they pick up.

In the years after World War I, golden retrievers increased in popularity and spread throughout the Western world. They now count themselves as one of the most common breeds largely due to their friendly nature and willingness to learn, which make them ideal for obedience trials, as search and rescue dogs and as excellent candidates for therapy dogs.

Goldens have boundless energy and often exhibit puppylike behavior well into adulthood. Because of this exuberance, goldens need plenty of exercise and running to calm them down. But when given a job that keeps them engaged, this “friendly, reliable and trustworthy,” breed will become loyal companions to any family.

An interior graphic detailing four quick facts about golden retrievers.

Behind the Breed: Welsh Corgi

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Queen Elizabeth of Britain’s love of Welsh corgis has helped make the breeds very popular all over the world. For owners of the Pembroke and Cardigan Welsh corgi breeds, a good amount of time is spent explaining the subtle differences between the two, which are distinguished by their tails — or lack thereof.

Pembroke and Cardigan Welsh corgis were both bred to work with farmers in Wales to take cattle to grazing lands or to guard them when they got there. Pembrokes (the ones without the tails) were found in the flatter Pembrokeshire in southern Wales and Cardigans (the ones with tails) were bred for the rockier Cardiganshire.

Corgis are…Viking Dogs?

Each breed enjoys separate heritages and origins as well. Pembrokes arrived in Wales around 1000 A.D. with the Vikings and trace their roots back to Nordic breeds including the Swedish vallhund. Cardigans are even older, having arrived in the British Isles as early as 1200 B.C., and are descended from German and Celtic lines. The name corgi is derived from the Welsh words “cor,” and “ci” (which has mutated to “gi”), meaning “dwarf dog.” Welsh legend says that Corgis are “enchanted dogs” and that mythical creatures used corgis to pull fairy coaches and work and guard fairy cattle.

The tail is not the only distinguishing feature of the two breeds. Pembrokes have straighter backs and squared-off rears, making them more rectangular in appearance, whereas Cardigans have long, foxlike tails, are a little larger and heavier, and are more rounded. Pembrokes have pointed ears and Cardigans’ ears are more rounded. Both breeds are low to the ground with large, heavy heads, long bodies and short, thick legs. They’re known as “heelers,” meaning that they nip at the heels of larger animals like cattle to keep them moving.

A Royal Breed

Queen Elizabeth II has long enjoyed corgis. She and her sister, Princess Margaret, shared a Pembroke Welsh corgi nicknamed Dookie that their father, George VI, gave them in 1933. In 1944, Princess Elizabeth received a Pembroke of her very own named Susan for her 18th birthday. The queen bred at least ten generations of dogs from Susan and has owned more than 40 Pembrokes throughout the years.

Both breeds are loving and affectionate with their families and children and just want to be where you are. They also are extremely intelligent, and training is essential to keep them occupied and on their toes. With the right amount of instruction and love, you, too, can enjoy this breed fit for a queen.

An interior graphic detailing seven quick facts about Welsh corgis.

Behind the Breed: Doberman Pinscher

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The clean lines and sleek look of the Doberman pinscher are aesthetically pleasing, while at the same time incredibly imposing. Described as watchful, energetic, determined, loyal and obedient, the Doberman’s alert ears and aerodynamic outline make them instantly recognizable. As a member of the working group, Dobermans are uniquely equipped for a variety of jobs.

The Doberman pinscher originated in late 19th century Germany and is a complex mixture of several terrier, working and herding breeds. Karl Friedrich Louis Dobermann developed the breed to be a commanding protector and to help guard him as he made his rounds collecting taxes. He may have merged terriers with black and tan markings with the Rottweiler on his quest to further refine these police and military dogs that now bear his name (minus the second “n,” of course).

Good news travels fast, and Dobermans quickly found their way into other countries. In the U.S., they were first registered by the American Kennel Club in 1908. Soon, Dobermans were proving their worth in police work, on duty with the military, and even later as therapy and service dogs.

Often portrayed as fierce and scary in movies and books, today’s Doberman pinschers have been carefully bred to be exceptionally athletic but also inherently gentler than their ancestors. However, they will still fiercely protect their families.

Dobermans are usually medium-sized, measuring 26 to 28 inches at the shoulders. They are well muscled, smooth and usually come in black, red, or fawn colors and are often described as elegant and noble. The breed’s proud bearing and regal gait are evident in and out of the show ring as well. A Doberman named Storm not only won the Westminster Kennel Club’s “Best in Show” in 1952, but he also came back to win it again in 1953.

Highly adaptable but intensely protective, the Doberman should always be supervised around young children and around kids of any age who have had little or no exposure to dogs. Dobermans carry the nickname “Velcro dogs” because they stick to their owners and families and often lean into their people for long head rubs between their alert ears. Given proper exercise, training and stimulating mental challenges, a Doberman can be a loyal family pet while also providing protection.

An interior graphic detailing four quick facts about Doberman pinschers.

Behind the Breed: Bullmastiff

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A large tan bullmastiff dog wearing a black collar while standing in a grassy field.

Have you ever wondered about the origins of a dog breed? In our “Behind the Breed” series we’ll dive into the history, personality and physical appearance of a particular breed. We’ll also cover some of the FAQs about the breed and maybe some fun facts, too!

Fearless and imposing, the bullmastiff is a working dog with a clear purpose. Not known as a graceful dog — it’s hard to be when you’re so large — the bullmastiff is truly a gentle giant. Beneath their muscular build is a kind-hearted, affectionate and loyal companion who forms strong bonds with their family.

English Mastiff vs. Bullmastiff: What’s the Difference?

The English mastiff and bullmastiff are both large, loyal dogs, but they have different personalities and purposes. The English mastiff is bigger and generally calmer and more relaxed, making it a good family dog. Smaller in size, the bullmastiff personality tends to be more energetic and naturally protective. Both breeds are affectionate and devoted, but the English mastiff is usually more laid-back, while the bullmastiff is generally more alert and watchful.

The bullmastiff was originally bred in 19th-century England to guard large estates from poachers. Poaching on estates was an extensive problem, so gamekeepers crossed English mastiffs with the now-extinct Olde English bulldog to create a guard dog that would protect and defend deer and other game. They were trained to track without barking or biting, with the goal of holding poachers without injuring them until their masters could get to the intruders. As a result, the bullmastiff became known as the “Gamekeeper’s Night Dog.”

John D. Rockefeller brought bullmastiffs to the U.S. in the 1920s to guard his home in upstate New York. The American Kennel Club recognized the breed a few years later in 1934.

Bullmastiff Size: How Big Do They Get?

Among giant dogs, the bullmastiff is known for its powerful, muscular build. Bullmastiffs stand as high as 27 inches at the shoulder and weigh between 100 and 130 pounds. Their broad heads and short muzzles create an alert expression that reflects the confidence and quiet strength these natural guardians possess.

Bullmastiff Colors and Grooming Needs

A bullmastiff’s coat can be fawn, red or brindle, and range within those colors from very light red fawn to very dark reddish brown. They have a square, black muzzle that tapers toward their eyes, as well as dark ears and nails.

The bullmastiff has a short, dense coat that is relatively easy to maintain with regular brushing. While bullmastiffs do shed throughout the year, frequent grooming and occasional baths are usually sufficient to keep their coat in good condition. Their low-maintenance coat makes them a practical choice for owners who want a large dog with minimal grooming requirements.

How Long Is a Bullmastiff’s Lifespan?

Like other giant dog breeds, the bullmastiff has a relatively short lifespan that averages 7 to 9 years. There are several factors that influence their life expectancy, including nutrition, lifestyle, genetics, breeding history and healthcare. To prolong their life, bullmastiffs should maintain a healthy weight to reduce stress on their joints, engage in moderate exercise regularly and have routine veterinarian visits appropriate for the dog’s life stage.

Bullmastiff Health Issues

Like many large and giant breeds, bullmastiffs can be predisposed to several serious medical issues. Some of the medical conditions to watch out for with bullmastiffs include:

  • Gastric dilatation-volvulus (GDV): This is a life-threatening bloat complication that occurs when the stomach twists on itself, cutting off blood supply to the organs. It requires immediate veterinary attention. 
  • Elbow and hip dysplasia: Due in part to their size and genetics, these are conditions in which the joints develop abnormally, leading to instability and arthritis. 
  • Arthritis: Underlying joint issues can cause arthritis to develop as they get older.
  • Cancer: Bullmastiffs have an increased risk of lymphoma, osteosarcoma (bone cancer), mast cell tumors and hemangiosarcoma, an aggressive cancer that commonly affects the spleen, liver or heart.
  • Heart disease: They have an increased risk of dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM), a disease in which the heart muscle becomes enlarged, making it less effective at pumping blood. This is a life-threatening condition, so early diagnosis and treatment can help improve their quality of life.

Not every bullmastiff will develop these conditions — they just occur more frequently in this breed. Regular veterinary checkups, maintaining a healthy weight and monitoring for any symptoms or behavioral changes can help detect problems early.

What Is the Bullmastiff Temperament Like?

Similar to the Rottweiler and cane corso breeds, the bullmastiff was bred to be a guard dog. They will set their property boundaries and defend them fiercely. Bullmastiffs don’t often bark and are quiet dogs, so their owners need to be alert for any changes in their behavior. They don’t always get along with other dogs, but they do thrive on obedience and training classes.

Bullmastiffs can be good with small children if they receive early training and close supervision, but their massive size creates risks of accidental bumps or rough play. They can weigh much more than a child and sometimes can be like a tornado in the living room, so make sure play doesn’t get too rough. Given the right amount of attention and socialization, bullmastiffs will become an integral part of their owners’ families.

How to Care for Bullmastiff Puppies

Bullmastiff puppies are intelligent, affectionate and loyal pups that quickly grow into powerful, large-breed companions. Because of their rapid growth, it is important to feed them a balanced diet that is specifically formulated to support healthy bone and joint development while preventing excessive weight gain. Bullmastiff pet parents should choose a complete and balanced food with an AAFCO nutritional adequacy statement indicating that it is appropriate for growth, including growth of large size dogs (70 lb. or more as an adult). As they get older, work with your veterinarian to choose a complete and balanced adult diet appropriate for their size, body condition, activity level, and individual health needs.

Bullmastiff puppies benefit greatly from early socialization by being safely introduced to a variety of people, places, sounds and experiences. Enrolling in puppy training classes can provide a valuable opportunity to build confidence, reinforce good manners and strengthen the bond between puppy and owner. Although bullmastiffs are naturally devoted and eager to please, they can also be strong-willed and independent, making proper training essential from an early age. Consistent, positive reinforcement and clear boundaries help them develop into well-mannered, confident adults that are reliable family companions.

The bullmastiff dog breed is a remarkable blend of strength, loyalty and gentle companionship. While their impressive size may seem intimidating at first, they are known for their calm temperament and deep devotion to their families. If you’re looking for a courageous protector with a kind heart, the bullmastiff may be the perfect addition to your home.

Dogs at Work: Beagles

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Known for their soft expressions, noisy baying and fiercely acute noses, beagles are loved by multitudes around the world. Distant cousins to foxhounds and harriers, these hardworking scenthounds often have naughty streaks, yet, with the right coaching and enough training, are extremely loyal to their packs — whether hunting rabbits and other small game or hunting snuggles on the couch.

The beagle has a long but contested history dating back to around 400 B.C., when the breed was mentioned in ancient Greek documents. Even the breed’s name is challenged, however, with some saying it derives from the French term for the open-throated bellowing sound beagles make in the field: “be’geule.” Others say that the name comes from the Gaelic word “beag,” meaning small.

Some reports of small “foothound” packs hunting rabbits and hares in England date back to 55 B.C., where the Romans were thought to have arrived with the small breed. A breed for the “common man,” the beagle was considered ideal for English gentlemen who didn’t have the means to afford feed or stables for horses, but still wanted to have the thrill of the chase and the hunt.

Beagles were imported to the U.S. in the late 1880s and became a recognized breed in the American Kennel Club circa 1885. Small and compact, the breed comes in two varieties measured at the shoulder. The first variety is for dogs smaller than 13 inches, while the second variety is a little taller, standing between 13 and 15 inches. Built like miniature foxhounds, the beagle should be muscular and solid, with floppy ears that frame the face. However, one of their most important features is their nose, which can house more than 220 million scent receptors. Beagles also have white tips on their tails called “flags” that help hunters on foot spot them in the field.

Some famous beagles include Snoopy, the lovable but headstrong companion of Charlie Brown from the Peanuts cartoons, as well as Uno and Miss P, the only beagles to have won Best in Show at the Westminster Kennel Club, in 2008 and 2015, respectively.

Congenial and tolerant, beagles are ideal family dogs, but they can be a little obstinate when those 220 million receptors kick in and they pick up a scent. An ideal beagle home will include a fenced-in backyard where they can follow their noses without escaping. With adequate training and a little patience, beagles can be affectionate and loyal family dogs.

An interior graphic detailing six fun facts about beagles.

Behind the Breed: Great Danes

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A gray and white Great Dane puppy standing in a wheat field on a sunny day.

Have you ever wondered about the origins of a dog breed? In our “Behind the Breed” series we’ll dive into the history, personality and physical appearance of a particular breed. We’ll also cover some of the FAQs about the breed and maybe some fun facts, too!

A Great Dane can be a wonderful companion for the right family. They are known as gentle, affectionate and loyal dogs with a memorable presence. But this breed is also a big commitment in every sense of the word.

Great Dane History

Despite the name, this German breed did not originate in Denmark. The breed was developed from powerful boar hounds and English mastiff-type hunting dogs that were used to hunt wild boar. These early dogs needed strength, speed and courage to help hunters manage large, dangerous animals.

The breed has also been called the German mastiff, and the name became more common in English-speaking countries after the French phrase Grand Danois was translated into English. The name stuck, even though the breed’s history is tied to Germany.

Over time, German nobles and German nobility began using these dogs for more than hunting. They helped protect country estates and were sometimes kept as chamber dogs, staying close to their people for protection and human contact. As the breed moved away from its hunting past, it became more polished, affectionate and better suited to life as a family pet.

Great Dane Size

The size of a Great Dane is one of the first things people notice about this breed. Males are typically 30 inches or taller, while females are usually at least 28 inches tall. Some males may reach around 32 inches or more, making them one of the tallest dog breeds in the world.

Their large size, long front legs, powerful hind legs and deep chest are all part of their impressive appearance. But those same traits also mean pet parents need to think practically. A giant dog needs space to stretch out, a sturdy leash, a large bed and enough room in the house to move comfortably.

Because they grow so quickly, puppies should be monitored closely as they age. Too much weight or intense exercise too early in life can put extra stress on developing bones and joints, which may contribute to joint problems later.

Great Dane Weight

The weight of a Great Dane varies by age, sex, genetics and body condition. Adult males are usually heavier than females, and many healthy Great Danes weigh well over 100 pounds. Because they are such large dogs, even small changes in body condition can add extra stress to their joints, legs and heart. Keeping a Great Dane at a healthy weight is an important part of their care.

Like any breed, Great Danes need food that supports their age, activity level and body condition. It is best to avoid table scraps, cooked bones or foods that could upset their stomach. A consistent feeding routine can help support digestion, and pet parents should ask their veterinarian about meal timing and exercise around meals, especially because bloat is a serious concern for Great Danes.

Great Dane Personality and Temperament

Great Danes are often described as gentle, loyal and friendly. Like any breed, their personalities can vary from dog to dog, but many are affectionate companions who enjoy being close to their people. They may look intimidating because of their size, but many Great Danes are known as gentle giants for a reason.

With proper training and socialization, this breed can do well with children, other dogs, other animals and other pets. However, supervision is important, especially around smaller breeds or young kids. Even a friendly giant dog can accidentally knock someone over without meaning to.

Because they often enjoy human contact, some may struggle with separation anxiety if they are left alone for long periods. Early training, a predictable routine and positive experiences away from their owners can help.

Great Dane Colors

The many colors of the Great Dane coat are part of what makes the breed so striking. Common coat colors and patterns include fawn, brindle, blue, black, harlequin, mantle and merle. Fawn Great Danes are typically golden with a black mask, while brindle dogs have darker striping. Harlequin Great Danes have a white base coat with irregular black patches, and mantle Great Danes have a black and white pattern.

No matter the color, Great Danes have a short coat that is usually easy to maintain. Their coat should look smooth and healthy, and routine grooming can help keep loose hair, dirt and dander under control. Regular nail trims, ear checks and dental care should also be part of their care routine.

Do Great Danes Shed?

While the smooth coat of a Great Dane is short, that does not mean it is shed-free. Most Great Danes shed a moderate amount throughout the year, and you may notice hair on furniture, clothing, rugs and car seats.

Brushing your Great Dane regularly can help remove loose hair before it ends up around the house. Bathing as needed can also help keep their skin and coat clean. If your Great Dane has sudden hair loss, itchy skin, redness, odor or recurring ear issues, talk with your vet.

Great Dane Lifespan

The lifespan of a Great Dane is typically shorter than that of many smaller breeds. Many Great Danes live around 7 to 10 years, though every dog is different. This is one reason the breed is sometimes called a heartbreak breed, because their life expectancy can feel far too short for the families who love them. Genetics, nutrition, preventive care, exercise, weight management and early attention to health concerns can all play a role in a dog’s quality of life.

Common Great Dane Health Issues

Like many large breeds, Great Danes can be prone to certain health issues that owners should understand before bringing one home. Bloat, also called gastric-dilatation volvulus, is one of the most urgent dog health concerns for deep-chested breeds and requires immediate veterinary care. Symptoms may include a swollen stomach, restlessness, drooling, retching without producing vomit and signs of pain.

Other possible concerns can include joint problems, hip dysplasia, heart disease and bone cancer. Because of these risks, regular veterinary care is important. Your veterinarian can talk with you about nutrition, growth, exercise, preventive care and have early conversations about breed-specific risks.

Giant dogs may also cost more to care for than other breeds because food, medicine, beds, surgery and routine supplies are often sized to match the dog. Other large breeds like bullmastiffs can have similar big-dog considerations, so it’s worth planning for both the emotional and practical sides of life with a giant breed.

Is a Great Dane Right for You?

Before bringing home a Great Dane, think about space, training, food costs, grooming, exercise, veterinary care and whether your household is ready for a giant dog. If you are considering a Great Dane puppy, look for a reputable breeder who prioritizes health testing and temperament. You can also check breed-specific rescues for Great Danes in need of homes.

With the right care, training and attention, the Great Dane can be a loving companion whose size is matched only by their heart.

Behind the Breed: Border Collies

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A close-up of a white and black border collie sitting upright outside in the sun.

Have you ever wondered about the origins of a dog breed? In our “Behind the Breed” series we’ll dive into the history, personality and physical appearance of a particular breed. We’ll also cover some of the FAQs about the breed and maybe some fun facts, too!

The border collie is one of the most recognizable herding breeds in the world. Known for intelligence, speed and strong working ability, the border collie breed was developed to move sheep across rough terrain with focus and precision. Originally associated with the border region between England and Scotland, this breed was valued for stamina, alertness and the ability to respond quickly to direction. Today, border collies are still admired for those same traits, whether they are working on farms, competing in dog sports or living with pet parents who enjoy outdoor activities.

Because they are so capable and energetic, border collies tend to do best in homes that can keep them mentally and physically engaged. They are often admired for their problem-solving ability and trainability, but they also need routine, purpose and regular interaction to support a healthy life. 

Border Collie Personality Traits

Border collies are widely known for being intelligent, alert and highly driven. Their temperament is shaped by their history as working animals, and that background still shows up in how they think, move and interact with the world around them. They are quick learners and often respond well to training, especially when they are given consistency, structure and plenty of mental stimulation.

Like many herding breeds, they are often happiest when they have a job to do. That job may be herding livestock, practicing agility, learning advanced commands or joining their owners for outdoor activities. Their strong herding instincts are part of what makes them so impressive, but those same instincts can sometimes lead them to try to herd children, other pets or other dogs if they are bored or under-stimulated.

Similar to Australian shepherds, collies are bred to herd livestock. That working background helps explain why border collies are usually best suited to owners who can provide regular exercise, engagement and training. Without enough activity and direction, they may develop behavioral issues such as restlessness, excessive barking or destructive habits.

Border Collie Size

Border collies are medium-sized dogs with an athletic, balanced frame. In general, border collie dogs stand between 18 and 22 inches tall and weigh about 30 to 55 pounds. Their bodies are built for endurance and quick movement, which makes sense given their history of herding sheep over long distances. Border collie puppies may look fluffy and playful early on, but they quickly grow into athletic adults with impressive stamina and focus.

How Long Do Border Collies Live?

Border collies have a life expectancy of about 12 to 15 years. Their lifespan can vary based on genetics, diet, exercise and overall care, but many border collies can enjoy a long, healthy life when they receive regular veterinary care and a balanced diet. As with many breeds, there are certain inherited conditions owners should be aware of. Border collies can be prone to hip dysplasia and collie eye anomaly. Not every dog will experience these concerns, but responsible breeders often screen for them to help support healthier litters. 

Types of Collies

Even though the names sound similar, the border collie and the collie breed are not the same. Over time, working lines and show lines developed in different directions. The working dog line became the border collie, while the more refined show line became what many people now think of as the collie breed.

Today, when people hear the word collies, they may be thinking of border collies, rough collies or smooth collies. Rough and smooth refer to coat types for the collie breed, while the border collie is a separate breed entirely. That is part of why the phrase “types of collies” can get confusing.

Are Border Collies Hypoallergenic?

No dog is completely hypoallergenic, and border collies are not considered a hypoallergenic breed. Because they have a double coat, they may not be the best fit for people with pet allergies. Border collies shed throughout the year, with heavier seasonal shedding as the weather changes. Because border collies shed year round, regular brushing is especially important. That double coat helps protect them outdoors, but it also means regular grooming is needed to keep them comfortable and their coat manageable.

Are Border Collies Good with Kids?

Border collies can be affectionate, loyal family dogs, but they are not automatically the right fit for every home. Because they are so intelligent and energetic, they do best with families who understand the breed’s needs and are prepared to provide exercise, training and structure. In the right environment, they can become great family pets that bond closely with their people.

That said, they are often better matched with older children who understand how to interact respectfully with animals. Herding instincts may lead them to chase or nip when excited, especially if they have not had enough activity or guidance. As with any breed, supervision matters when children and pets are together.

Border collies can also live well with other pets and other dogs, but they need early socialization. Because they are so responsive, they tend to do best when expectations are clear and daily routines include both physical exercise and mental engagement.

Is the Border Collie Breed Right for You?

Border collies are intelligent, athletic and deeply driven. Their loyalty, responsiveness and working ability can make them incredible companions, but they do best with owners who understand their need for exercise, structure and purpose. While they can be affectionate family pets, they are usually happiest in homes where training, activity and engagement are part of everyday life. For pet parents who are ready to meet the breed’s needs, a border collie can be an exceptional match.

Dogs at Work: Portuguese Water Dogs

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Taste of the Wild

Most people in the United States know of the Portuguese water dog (PWD) breed thanks to Bo and Sunny, the happy-go-lucky residents of the White House during the Obama administration. But long before that, they had a reputation as valuable crew members aboard Portuguese fishing vessels.

History of the PWD

No one is sure how Portie ancestors were first brought to Portugal. Some believe the Berbers, people from a Roman province in North Africa, sailed into port with the dogs on board. Others conjecture that the Goths, Germanic people of the Balkan area, first brought the dogs to shore.

Once in Portugal, fishermen recognized the value of the dogs and were quick to employ them on their ships. Since Porties have waterproof coats, webbed paws and are excellent swimmers, they were used to recover nets and tackle that fell overboard, drive fish into nets, swim messages from ship to shore or ship to ship and even guard the day’s catch once the ship was docked for the night. Retired fishermen were known to rent their dogs to pocket a little extra income.

As the fishing industry made use of new technologies, there was a less of a need for PWDs, and by the 1930s, their numbers had dwindled. Thankfully, a wealthy shipping magnate by the name of Vasco Bensaude started a breeding program to preserve the dogs.

Portuguese water dogs were first brought to the United States in 1958, and the American Kennel Club recognized them as part of the working dog group in 1984.  Today, Porties can be found diving into pools and running through sprinklers as family pets.  They have a reputation for being good with children, easy to train and eager to please.  It’s no surprise that the breed excels at water trials, but they can also be good at obedience and agility or as service or therapy dogs. A PWD named Dutch worked rescue and recovery at the World Trade Center site after 9/11.

An interior graphic detailing six fun facts about Portuguese water dogs.