Alaskan Klee Kai

Country of Origin: ?The Alaskan Klee Kai breed was developed in Alaska by Linda Spurlin beginning in the 1970‘s. What began as an 'Oops' moment (Spurlin observed the result of an accidental breeding between an Alaskan Husky and an unknown small breed dog) resulted in inspiring Spurlin to pursue a new breed. Several breeds were used in creating this breed, including both the Siberian and Alaskan Huskies, the Schipperke and the American Eskimo Dog. However, the Alaskan Klee Kai has been breeding true since 1988. The original name for this breed was simply Klee Kai, however, politics took hold and the breed split into Alaskan Klee Kai and Klee Kai in 1995 for political reasons. The Alaskan Klee Kai is also known as the AKK, Miniature Alaskan Husky and Mini Husky. The Alaskan Klee Kai breed was created to provide a smaller companion version of the Alaskan Husky. They are currently recognised by the UKC, ARBA, CKC, NKC, APRI, ACR and the DRA.

Size: The Alaskan Klee Kai can come in 3 different sizes; Toy, Miniature and Standard. They can weigh anywhere from under 10 lbs to 23 lbs depending on whether they are Toy, Miniature or Standard breeds. Their height will range from under 13 inches for Toy to 17.5 inches for Standard and can fall anywhere in between.

Coat: ?The Alaskan Klee Kai has a double coat and is sufficient in length to give a well furred experience. However, should the coat distort the outline of the dog, it is considered a breed fault. Accepted colors for the Alaskan Klee Kai’s coat are black and white, gray and white, or the more rare red/cinnamon and white. It is possible to come across a solid white Alaskan Klee Kai, however, this is a show disqualification and a white Alaskan Klee Kai is not eligible for registration. The Alaskan Klee Kai blows its coat twice a year, however, when it isn't blowing its coat, the Klee Kai does not require much grooming.

Character: The Alaskan Klee Kai tend to be a little 'dog aggressive' if not socialized properly. It is truly wise to begin socialization as soon as you get your Alaskan Klee Kai. The Alaskan Klee Kai is not recommended for living situations with small animals such as birds, rabbits or gerbils unless they are raised with them. This is due to the strong prey drive that is present in this breed. If they are not socialized well with small animals from a young age, they will have the propensity to hunt and kill them. They are also not recommended for homes with small children. They do not take well to the typical antics of babies and toddlers, such as pinching, poking and pulling and may respond by nipping at the child.

Temperament: ?The Alaskan Klee Kai is a part of it’s pack. They require a good amount of face time with their owners and would prefer to follow them wherever they go. However, the AKK is cautious and will not immediately warm up to strangers or unfamiliar situations. They do have wonderful watchdog potential, as they are extremely loyal and alert as well as prone to barking. The Alaskan Klee Kai can become a high strung dog without the right level of activity.

Care: ?The Alaskan Klee Kai is an average shedder and should be brushed on a regular basis. They also should receive baths only when necessary. They are relatively easy to care for. One nice thing to note about the Alaskan Klee Kai is that it is not typical for it to have doggy odor or bad breath. So feel free to get close to your puppy and give it lots of love. The Alaskan Klee Kai has very few genetic defects to speak of. Some of the few health concerns associated with this breed are: Juvenile Cataracts, Liver Disease, Extreme Shyness, Factor VII Deficiency, Pyometra, Luxating Patella, Cryptorchids and Cardiac Issues Including PDA. Also, this breed is relatively young and other health issues could still arise.

Training: ?The Alaskan Klee Kai is an intelligent breed and is a fairly quick learner. The AKK requires a firm and consistent pack leader during training and would benefit greatly from obedience school. The breed has the propensity to develop “small dog syndrome', so it is imperative that the dog knows who's boss.

Activity: ?The Alaskan Klee Kai is not a breed for those who live a sedentary lifestyle. This breed needs daily exercise and should be taken on a daily long walk. A larger area that provides space to play is fitting for the AKK, as their ideal day consists of more play than anything else!

Alaskan Husky

Country of Origin: The Alaskan Husky is not a specific breed, but a general term describing any mixed breed dog that gives the appearance of a Northern sled dog. Typically, it is some mix of the Siberian Husky with a Doberman, or with a hound such as a foxhound or greyhound. Some Alaskan Huskies show a clear wolf ancestry. The Alaskan Husky began attracting attention with the Alaskan Gold Rush in the late 1800’s. Large, strong sled dogs were needed for transporting people and goods over great distances. The typical Alaskan Husky of that time was a heavy dog composed of a Saint Bernard mix. When Siberian Huskies were first imported into Alaska in 1908, they immediately dominated sled racing events. These smaller, lighter, faster breeds would dominate racing events from that day forward. Sled dogs became less prevalent with the advent of motorized vehicles in the first half of the twentieth century, but in the 1970’s, a native Alaskan named George Attla successfully bred a number of Alaskan Huskies, helping to revitalize the breed. Today, the Alaskan Husky remains the fastest sled dog over short distances. Champion Alaskan Husky racers are valued at amounts upwards of $10,000.

Size: Due to the variety of potential mixes, the Alaskan Husky can come in many shapes and sizes. The majority weigh 17-27 kg (38-60 lbs). Most Alaskan Huskies are similar in appearance to the Siberian Husky, but taller with a more noticeable tuck-up (stomach tucked up behind the chest). Alaskan Huskies should have a round skull, almond-shaped eyes and triangular, erect, furry ears. Alaskan Huskies have an arched neck, furry, sickle-curved tail, and furry, oval feet.

Coat: The Alaskan Husky should have a short or medium length coat which is less dense than most Northern breeds for effective heat dissipation when racing. It is built for quick speed rather than endurance over long distances, and may require a coat or ‘dog boots’ when on the trail. The Alaskan Husky may be of any color and pattern; coat color is generally of little significance to sled racers. There are a variety of interesting facial masks and markings and many possible mixes of eye color.

Character: The Alaskan Husky is eager, energetic, and loyal to family. It is playful and easy-going; some are sociable while others are somewhat shy. Many Alaskan Huskies tend to be loud, especially when in groups of more than one. They are skilled at digging under or leaping over backyard fences, so proper precautions should be taken. The Alaskan Husky can be hyperactive indoors and will grow bored and destructive if not sufficiently exercised.

Temperament: The Alaskan Husky does not naturally get along with other pets, but may tolerate them if socialized from a young age. It enjoys the companionship of other Alaskan Huskies.

Care: The Alaskan Husky requires weekly brushing with a metal comb, more often when shedding. The Alaskan Husky is generally healthy; some are prone to PRA (an eye disorder) or hypothyroidism. The Alaskan Husky has a lifespan of 10 to 15 years. Some racing lines are bred for early maturity and begin to deteriorate as young as six years of age.

Training: The Alaskan Husky can be stubborn and will take advantage of its owner when possible. This breed requires patient, consistent training.

Activity: The Alaskan Husky Needs a substantial amount of exercise, but it should not be over-exercised in warm weather. This is not a good breed for those unprepared to meet its high exercise requirements, and it is not well suited to apartment life.

Alapaha Blue Blood Bulldog

Country of Origin: The Alapaha Blue Blood Bulldog (also known as the ‘ABBB’ or ‘Otto’) is a highly rare breed descended from the English Bulldog. Only a few hundred Alapaha Blue Blood Bulldogs live worldwide. The Lane family of Rebecca, Georgia sought to recover the old ‘plantation dog’ from the Alapaha region of Southern Georgia. These plantation dogs originally guarded slaves, but later hunted hogs and cattle and protected their masters’ property. They were known for their large size, loyalty, and high level of obedience. The Lane’s program started in the early 1800’s with a dog named Otto, but lasted for three generations over 100 years. In 1986, Lana Lou Lane instituted the Alapaha Blue Blood Bulldog Association, which has registered several hundred dogs, but the breed is still considered at high risk of extinction.

Size: Alapaha Blue Blood Bulldogs have a shoulder height of 50-66 cm (22-26 in) and weigh 22-40 kg (50-90 lbs). Males are much larger than females. They have a natural bulldog appearance with a broad head, uncropped drop ears, and wide set eyes. Blue (‘glass’) or brown/blue (‘marble’) eyes are preferred. The Alapaha Blue Blood Bulldog has a muscular body with a narrow chest, wide hips, short, undocked tail, flat back, and small, round ‘cat feet’.

Coat: The Alapaha Blue Blood Bulldog has a short, stiff outer coat and soft undercoat. The Alapaha Blue Blood Bulldog comes in a wide variety of colors, including several shades of red, grey, fawn, brown, black, brindle, and mahogany, always with white or brown and white markings. The Alapaha Blue Blood Bulldog is an average shedder.

Character: The Alapaha Blue Blood Bulldog is an excellent companion. It is powerful, proud, dutiful, and highly obedient, making an excellent guard or watch dog. It has a calm, friendly disposition.

Temperament: The Alapaha Blue Blood Bulldog is aloof with strangers, but will relax once it detects its master’s approval. Alapaha Blue Blood Bulldogs are alert, athletic, and agile. They are said to be utterly devoid of aggression until their master or territory is threatened, then they will fight to the death. The ‘Blue Blood’ in its name indicates the royal character this breed is perceived to have by its supporters.

Care: The Alapaha Blue Blood Bulldog requires little grooming. Bathe twice a month and occasionally comb and brush its coat to remove dead hairs. The Alapaha Blue Blood Bulldog enjoys the outdoors, but requires shade in the summer and shelter from cold winds and weather in the winter. Alapaha Blue Blood Bulldogs are susceptible to entropion, a genetic disorder in which the eyelids are inverted, which is easily treatable if diagnosed. The Alapaha Blue Blood Bulldog has a lifespan of 12-15 years.

Training: The Alapaha Blue Blood Bulldog is very intelligent and naturally obedient, making training a straightforward process. Training should be firm and consistent.

Activity: The Alapaha Blue Blood Bulldog is active and athletic, requiring long daily walks. Alapaha Blue Blood Bulldogs enjoy swimming and spending time outdoors, but they are usually inactive indoors and can deal fine with apartment life.

Akbash

Country of Origin: The Akbash, also known as the Coban Kopegi and the Akbas, was developed over 3000 years ago in what is now known as Turkey. The Akbash was developed by shepherds as a flock guard. Selective breeding was used by the shepherds to create the all white coat of the Akbash as a means to differentiate the dog from predators. It is believed that the Akbash is a relative of the more recognizable flock guards of Europe such as the Komondor, Kuvasz, Tatra Mountain Sheepdog as well as the Pyrenean Mountain Dog. The Akbash is recognized by several kennel clubs including the NKC, UKC, CKC, ADI, APRI, ACR and DRA(Akbash Dogs International).

Size: The Akbash will typically reach heights of 28-32 inches tall and an average weight of 90-130 pounds.

Coat: The Akbash, whose name in Turkish translates to “White head”, will always appear with a white coat. The Akbash's thick double coat is course and weather resistant and should appear in short to medium length.

Character: The Akbash is a very loyal and alert dog with a natural guarding instinct. The Akbash is a working dog that will prefer a lifestyle that offers him work to do on a regular basis. Also, the Akbash is an independent worker that does not require constant supervision to complete his tasks. However, the Akbash will often attempt to take control of a situation when dealing with a more meek or passive individual such as small children. Due to this, the Akbash is not typically recommended for households with children under the age of eight. The Akbash is typically wary of strangers and will be suspicious of even welcomed friends if they are not closely supervised by the owner. The Akbash is naturally dog aggressive and can become barrier frustration aggressive when surrounded by lights and sounds in town.

Temperament: The Akbash is an extremely intelligent breed that is always highly dedicated to its family as well as the livestock it is charged with protecting. The Akbash also exhibits a strong maternal instinct, which makes them typically very good with infants or even the newborn animals of livestock on the farm. It is this sense of comfort that the livestock gains from the Akbash that causes them to collect behind the Akbash in the event of a threat. It is not uncommon for the Akbash to disregard self preservation in order to protect the livestock they've bonded to. The Akbash has been known to protect charges such as sheep, goats, cattle, horses, poultry, exotic birds, deer, alpacas, llamas and ward off predators such as wolves, bears and coyotes. Due to the Akbash's controlling and independent nature, this dog is not recommended for the first time pet owner. They are just as likely to ignore a command as they are to follow it and they require a very firm and consistent leader.

Care: The Akbash requires very little grooming as their coat is naturally non-matting and does not cause dog odor. They only require regular brushings to assist in removal of dead hair and a bath when necessary. The Akbash is considered an above average shedder. Also, the Akbash is not considered a good fit for apartment living. They are typically inactive indoors and require a large area for exercise daily.

Training: The Akbash is a very strong willed breed that will take control of any situation if allowed. This breed can be difficult to train and requires a strong minded and consistent pack master to follow. The Akbash does exhibit a natural guarding instinct and should require very little training to do his job.

Activity: While the Akbash's activity level is relatively low, they are still a very athletic dog and will require a long walk daily if not provided space to play. A large yard or farm is the best environment for the Akbash, as this allows them to exercise themselves without assistance.

Airedale Terrier

Country of Origin: The Airedale Terrier (also known as the ‘Waterside Terrier’, ‘Bingley Terrier’, or slightly less modestly the ‘King of Terriers’, for its height) comes from the Airedale valley in West Yorkshire, England. It was bred by crossing the Otterhound with the Black and Tan Terrier for increased ability in Water Rat hunting competitions on the Aire River. The result was a breed with great scenting and Otter hunting skills which could pursue and retrieve game from its den. It was later crossed with the Irish Terrier and Bull Terrier. The Airedale Terrier was first brought to North America in the 1880’s. Champion Master Briar, born in 1897, is considered to be the patriarch of the breed. Airedale Terriers became renowned as messengers and search animals in World War I. President Roosevelt is quoted as saying ‘An Airedale can do anything any other dog can do and then lick the other dog, if he has to.’ John Wayne’s nickname, ‘The Duke’, was the name of his childhood Airedale Terrier, who accompanied him everywhere he went.

Size: The Airedale Terrier has a shoulder height of 56-61 cm (22-24 in) and weighs 20-33 kg (45-70 lbs). There are some lines called ‘Oorang Airedales’ or simply ‘large type’ which weigh 23-45 kg (50 to 100 lbs). The largest of Terriers, the Airedale has a long head, deep chest, flat back, straight legs, and small, round feet. Airedale Terriers have floppy ‘V’-shaped ears, small, dark eyes, a black nose, and a scissors bite. They have a highly set, erect tail. The Airedale Terrier’s teeth are the largest among Terriers and can inflict a strong bite.

Coat: The Airedale Terrier has a smooth, hard, wire-haired outer coat with a short, soft undercoat. The coat is tan with black markings on the back and sides. The black may be mixed with gray and white (called ‘grizzle’). Airedale Terriers do not shed heavily. Their scruffy chin hair has the appearance of a goatee.

Character: The Airedale Terrier is loyal, but can be stubborn. Airedale Terriers are active, intelligent and playful. They bark infrequently. Airedale Terriers are courageous, but can behave mischievously.

Temperament: The Airedale Terrier is patient with children and tolerant of other household animals. It may try to dominate other dogs if not trained properly. Airedale Terriers are fearless and alert at all times, but not aggressive. They are responsive, outgoing, and confident.

Care: Pet Airedale Terriers require little grooming, but show dogs need substantially more attention. Pets should be combed twice a week and plucked twice a year. Show dogs are usually ‘stripped’ by pulling out loose hairs via a serrated knife edge. Airedale Terrier s generally have excellent health, but like many breeds they are susceptible to eye problems and hip dysplasia. The Airedale Terrier has a life span of 10-13 years and litters of 5-12 puppies.

Training: The Airedale Terrier quickly understands what is asked of it. If not given variety in training, Airedale Terriers can become bored and refuse to perform.

Activity: Bred to hunt, the Airedale Terrier requires several walks a day and playtime in the yard. Puppies require even more frequent exercise. Swimming and playing catch are among the Airedale Terrier’s favorite activities, but they are very boisterous indoors as well. Airedale Terriers are not suited to apartment life.

Afghan Hound

Country of Origin: The Afghan Hound (also known as a “Tazi' or “Baluchi Hound”, formerly “Persian Greyhound”) is an ancient breed which dates back to the age of the Pharaohs, but its modern development occurred mostly in Afghanistan. The Afghan Hound was bred by nomadic tribes to hunt gazelles, foxes, and rabbits in harsh mountain terrain, leading to a nimble body, notable jumping ability, and long coat for protection from the cold. For centuries, the Afghan Hound was isolated in the mountains of Afghanistan, with locals reluctant to sell the breed to foreigners. Only in the 20th century was the breed finally brought to England, and later America, where it became a popular show dog and developed a somewhat glamorous reputation. In 2005, an Afghan Hound named Snuppy became the first cloned dog in history. A fictional Afghan Hound named What-A-Mess is the star of a popular series of children’s books and cartoons.

Size: The Afghan Hound has a tall shoulder height of 61-73 cm (24-29 in) and weighs 20-27 kg (45-60 lbs). It has a long, narrow head, almond shaped eyes, large, drooping ears, and big feet. The Afghan Hound has a distinctive ring at the end of its tail and markedly high hipbones.

Coat: The Afghan Hound has a coat of very long, fine, silky hair. The long coat and shorter-haired saddle on the back are distinctive features of this breed. The coat may be of any color, with or without a black face mask, but white markings are discouraged, especially on the head. A white Afghan Hound with patches of red or black may indicate impure breeding.

Character: The Afghan Hound is calm indoors, but fast and active outdoors, eager to chase small game. It is very proud, noble and intelligent. Afghan Hounds are at home in the show ring. They are sometimes compared to cats in that they are affectionate yet standoffish, and may not come when called.

Temperament: The Afghan Hound is kind and loyal, but is sensitive and needs to be treated with care, particularly by the young. Afghan Hounds are normally tolerant of children, but older and well behaved children are preferable. Afghan Hounds get along very well with other pets with whom they are raised, but males are often dominant toward one another.

Care: The Afghan Hound must be groomed very carefully for one full hour, twice a week; special instruments may be required. The coat should never be trimmed. Afghan Hounds should also be bathed and have ear passages cleaned weekly. The Afghan Hound should be given a soft bed, and prefers to live indoors with access to the outside. The Afghan Hound has a low pain tolerance. Like other sighthounds, the Afghan Hound is sensitive to anesthesia. Afghan Hounds have litters of 6-8 and a life span of 11-13 years.

Training: The Afghan Hound is independent, making training somewhat of a challenge. It should be trained firmly but kindly. No Afghan Hound is ever completely obedient, but without proper training it can become destructive.

Activity: The Afghan Hound needs plenty of exercise. In order to burn off energy, it must be walked daily or given an enclosed area in which to run—preferably both. Apartment life is not recommended. Provide plenty of water when exercising to prevent overheating.

Affenpinscher

Country of Origin The Affenpinscher originated in Germany, with examples of the breed dating back to the seventeenth century. The name “Affenpinscher” is derived from the German word for monkey ('Affe'). Affenpinschers were established to hunt and eliminate rodents, leading to their high activity level and energetic demeanor.

Size The Affenpinscher has a shoulder height of 25-30 cm (9.75-11.75 in) and 3.1-3.6 kg (7-8 lbs). It is a small dog with a square body and large chest. The Affenpinscher has a short nose and undershot jaw with black eyes and a short, arched neck. The ears and tail are often docked.

Coat The Affenpinscher has a coarse, swirled coat--generally solid black coat, but sometimes brown or gray. Tan or red markings may be present. The Affenpinscher coat is shaggy, at approximately an inch in length, and the hair is longer but less thick on the face and legs. The Affenpinscher has a low level of shedding.

Character Affenpinschers are intelligent, friendly, loyal, alert, spunky and lively. They are highly defensive of their food, toys, and territory. The Affenpinscher will take the reins to defend its loved ones when necessary, though due to its small size it is not recommended as a guard or watch dog. The spunky, fearless Affenpinscher makes a great companion.

Temperament The Affenpinscher has a personality similar to most terriers (though it is categorized under the pinscher-schnauzer subgroup). The Affenpinscher gets along fine with children, other Affenpinschers, and other dogs or household pets, especially those they have been raised alongside. Affenpinschers may be alarmed by unknown visitors. The Affenpinscher enjoys playing and occasionally getting into trouble, like the monkey after which it is named! While generally quiet, the Affenpinscher can become aggressive when agitated and may occasionally pick battles with larger dogs.

Care The hair on the Affenpinscher should never be clipped, as it ruins the coat. The coat may need to be plucked periodically by a professional dog trimmer. Frequent grooming--two to three times a week—is recommended due to the long coat. Like other short nosed breeds, the Affenpinscher may face respiratory issues in very hot weather. The Affenpinscher can live ten to twelve years and has an average litter size of two. Stray hairs around the eyes should be removed immediately.

Training Training for the Affenpinscher must be consistent and firm. It learns most commands fairly quickly, but may take some time to housebreak. Some variety in training is recommended to keep the Affenpinscher interested.

Activity Affenpinschers enjoy quick, short walks several times a day. Regular playtime keeps Affenpinschers happy. The Affenpinscher appreciates indoor playtime, but an outdoor play area is ideal. The Affenpinscher also enjoys hikes, though it should be watched carefully due to its daring nature.

Akita

Country of Origin: The Akita (also known as “Akita Inu” or “Japanese Akita”) is the largest and best known Japanese breed. The Akita was bred as a fighting dog in medieval times, and redeveloped in the 1800’s as part of an effort to restore several ancient Japanese breeds. In 1918, the Akita Inu Hozankai Society of Japan was created to preserve the breed, which was subsequently designated a natural Japanese monument in 1931. In 1937, Helen Keller’s guide dog became the first Akita to arrive in the United States. The Akita grew in popularity in America after World War II, when many soldiers returned home from Japan with them. Today, they are popular American pets and serve as guard and police dogs in Japan. The world’s most famous Akita, Hachiko, greeted his owner at a train station after work every day. After his owner’s death, Hachiko continued to faithfully visit the train station every day to wait for his owner, until he died nine years later. Today a statue of Hachiko stands at the train station and an annual ceremony is held in his honor.

Size: The Akita has a shoulder height of 61-71 cm (24-28 in) and weighs 35-50 kg (75-120 lbs). Akitas have small, triangular shaped eyes, flat skulls, and a level back. Their ears are small, angled, and erect. The Akita has a large, full, curly, tail which dips above or below the back. Akitas have webbed feet which make them effective swimmers.

Coat: The Akita has a double coat—the outer coat composed of straight and coarse hair, and the undercoat soft and dense. The hair on the head and legs is short. Permitted colors for Akitas are red, white, and streaked. Pinto is accepted for the American breed, but not the Japanese breed. The Akita sheds its coat twice a year.

Character: Akitas have a strong hunting instinct and are calm, spontaneous, and intelligent, making good watchdogs. They are quiet and dignified, with great power and attentiveness. Akitas are noble and kind, making excellent companions. They are generally obedient. Barking is infrequent; however they tend to make a mess when drinking!

Temperament: The Akita is brave and smart, and requires a lot of human companionship. Akitas should be allowed to live indoors (though they can tolerate the outdoors in cool climates) and given plenty of attention. They are highly protective and territorial. Akitas prefer not to have other dogs around, and should become acquainted with cats and other household pets early in life to avoid aggressive behavior. They get along with children, preferably older children, but they must be given personal space. The Akita is not fond of strangers.

Care: The Akita should be brushed weekly to remove dead hair, and should be groomed with a metal-toothed comb twice a year, when it is shedding. To avoid removing natural oils from the coat, it should be bathed lightly with a mild shampoo only when absolutely required. The hair on the bottom of the webbed feet should be trimmed occasionally. Akitas are prone to hip dysplasia and may encounter eye and knee problems. Akitas have litters of 5-7 pups and a life span of 9-11 years.

Training: A confident and consistent approach is required to train an Akita. Repetitive drills or overly harsh training hinder the process. Akitas are easily housetrained. They must be socialized young if they are to live with other pets.

Activity: Akitas have considerable stamina and should be physically and mentally stimulated as much as possible. They should be walked on a leash or provided an enclosed area for activity. Akitas enjoy active playtime with family. They can adapt when not exercised for a time, but may be less quiet and obedient. Akitas can tolerate apartment life provided they receive sufficient exercise.