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Newfoundland

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The Newfoundland—or Newf—is a gentle giant among canines. The Newf is sweet, and devoted, ready to do whatever you want him to do. Protect your children. Pull carts with branches and firewood. Save drowning people. Compete in obedience and tracking trials.A sweet, devoted companion, the Newf will protect children, haul leaves and firewood, save drowning people, and compete successfully in obedience and tracking trials. The newf is a large dog. It is strong, elegant, harmonious, agile, and hardy. Average height is 28 inches (70 cm), but many are larger. Their average weight is between 120 to 150 pounds (54 to 68 kg).

There are conflicting theories about the origin of the Newfoundland. There are those who claim the breed derives from Nordic dogs brought to Newfoundland in 1600. Others feel the breed has British origins and date its development from the year 1700 when the island of Newfoundland became a British possession. According to this theory, the British brought Tibetan mastiffs to Newfoundland, and the Newfoundland dog was the result of a long period of breeding between these mastiffs and local dogs.

The third theory is that the Newfoundland is a close relative of the Labrador. This theory is based on the similarities between the two breeds and the fact that the costs of Newfoundland and Labrador are very close to each other. It is possible that the Labrador, which is an excellent swimmer, was able to swim the Strait of Belle Isle or cross on foot when the water was frozen. One theory is the Vikings and Basque fishermen visited Newfoundland as early as 1000 AD and discovered the dogs working with their owners. But the dog we know today did develop in England. The island of Newfoundland registered the breed as extinct back in 1780.

After World War I, Siki was highly recognized as the best Newf show dog, and became the foundation stud for the breed that is of today. Most Newfs can trace their lineage back to Siki. Other famous Newfs were Seaman who accompanied Lewis and Clark on their expeditions. And in the children’s book Peter Pan, Nana, the children’s nurse, was a Newfoundland.

Miniature Schnauzers

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A member of the terrier family, the Miniature Schnauzer is the most popular of the Schnauzer breeds. Related to the Giant and Standard schnauzers, the Miniature has a less aggressive temperament than its larger relatives. The dog has many talents, including hunting, tracking, competing in obedience and earth dog trials, and performing tricks, in addition to being a wonderful companion. Miniature Schnauzers stand 13 to 14 inches (33 to 35 centimeters) tall, and weigh between 15 and 18 pounds (7 to 8 kilograms).

Renderings of Schnauzer-like dogs date back to the 1400s, and the existence of a standard-sized dog resembling a Schnauzer was recorded in 17th-century Germany. Schnauzers originated in the cattle- and sheep-farming areas of Württemberg and Bavaria in southern Germany. These predecessors were good farm dogs and ratters, and their stamina also made them useful as coach dogs. The breed wasn’t officially recognized by Germany until 1899. The German word “schnauzer” means “muzzle,” which seems appropriate for a dog whose distinctive mustache gives him the appearance of a wise elder.

Miniature Schnauzers are thought to be a cross between the Standard Schnauzer, the Affenpinscher, and possibly the Poodle. The Miniature Schnauzer first appeared in America in 1925, and gained American Kennel Club (AKC) recognition in 1933. The popularity of the breed soared after World War II, and it continues to be popular today. This breed sports a coat that may be solid black or white (though white is the least commonly seen color), black with silver markings, or salt-and-pepper colored. Miniature Schnauzers have a short- to medium-length, wiry outer coat with a dense undercoat.

Boston Terriers

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Boston Terriers always appears to be ready for the most formal of occasions with what appears to be tuxedo attire. Their personality likewise resembles that of the genteel, as they tend to be very well mannered. With an expression of kindness in its eyes, the Boston Terrier can easily worm its way into the hearts of adults and children alike. Boston Terriers are 10 to 17 inches (25 to 43 centimeters) in height and range in weight from 11 to 25 pounds (5 to 11 kilograms).

The Boston Terrier has a short, smooth, fine-textured coat. The dog can be found in brindle, seal, or black and white colorings, but the latter is perhaps the most notable, for giving the dog the appearance of wearing a tuxedo. The Boston Terrier is outgoing and knows no enemies. This breed tends to trust everyone unconditionally, and its friendly nature is truly endearing. Boston Terriers are lively, even-tempered, and alert. Though certainly not inclined to attack an intruder, the Boston Terrier will give notice by barking, and the dog’s voice is not yappy.

Boston Terriers are eager and quick to learn, and thus are easily trained, in spite of the fact that they can show a determined and independent side at times. The breed is very sensitive to tone of voice, and responds well to positive reinforcement. Boston Terriers need daily exercise, and enjoy a short walk, a romp in the yard, or an engaging game or two. Because of their short faces, however, they may experience breathing difficulties if play is too overtaxing or prolonged, so caution should be exercised.

These dogs are very good with children. They also tend to get along well with other household pets, though they may exhibit some aggression toward strange dogs. Males, in particular, have a tendency to display dominance. Boston Terriers are not suitable to extreme climates. They appreciate a sweater in winter, and love to snuggle under covers for warmth. Due to their short muzzles, they may wheeze or snore when they sleep. They can thrive in any environment, be it city, suburban, or rural. They welcome and need interaction with people. In addition to being good family dogs, they make excellent companions for the elderly or invalids.