I wanted to write a post about some breeds that are not the most popular, but I think have the potential to make excellent pets. Let me caveat this post by saying this is just my opinion and based on the experiences I've had with particular breeds and research; and of course breeds go in and out of "fashion" all the time. However, I do think people searching for their next pet should take a look at some of these lessor known breeds. Choosing a puppy is very personal, and requires a lot of analysis of your own lifestyle and what your purpose is for having a dog. Take a look at some of these breeds and see if their typical personalities and care requirements may be a good fit for you.
The Athletic Lifestyle
Are you looking for a running partner? Do you enjoy being outdoors doing things like hiking and swimming? Does spending time outside training your dog (for any reason - obedience, agility, retrieving or hunting), and throwing a ball in the park appeal to you? Lastly, and most importantly, are you committed to providing a lifestyle for your pup where they are getting lots of exercise on a daily basis, with no exceptions? One of these guys might be for you:
Flat-Coated Retriever
In the 19th century, retrieving dogs were very popular with fishermen to retrieve fish and other objects from the water. With the development of more advanced firearms, hunters needed the retrieving instinct in their dogs, but with the ability to mark fallen birds and bring them back. This caused crosses of the fishery dogs with their excellent swimming and retrieving skills, with British breeds, such as setters or pointers to hone the dog's bird sense. The result was the Wavy-Coated Retriever. Near the end of the 1800's, these were crossed with some straighter-haired breeds, as it was realized that their fur was more water repellent. The resulting Flat-Coated Retriever became a recognized breed by the AKC in 1915. After the Second World War, the number of Flat-Coated Retrievers had dwindled almost to extinction, however a few concerted breeders managed to keep the breed alive.
They are a sweet, energetic dog that loves to play and fetch. One of the great traits they seem to have maintained through the line, is their ability to be very exuberant outdoors, but calm and quiet indoors. They are deemed one of the most devoted and companionable breeds, and a true family dog. They are very responsive to training, good with other dogs, and have some of the lowest grooming requirements of the long coated retrievers. They typically weigh about 50-70lbs depending on sex and bloodline, and let's face it, they're just darn adorable!
Belgian Tervuren
The Belgian Tervuren is one of four Belgian shepherd breeds, all sharing the same history, but distinguished by coat and markings. The Tervuren was named after the village of Tervuren as this is where one of the breeds earliest proponents lived. They lagged behind the other shepherd breeds in popularity, mainly due to debates over their preferred colours and markings. They were first registered in North America in 1918, but the breed's numbers remained so low that they almost died out after the Depression. They have since caught the eye of many fanciers because they are the most elegant of the Belgian Shepherds, and thus have maintained fantastic lines on both form and behavioural fronts.
They are alert, watchful, energetic and a dependable companion. They are extremely smart and trainable, and also rank the highest in terms of affection and friendliness of all the shepherds. This breed requires strenuous exercise on a daily basis, but it's trainability allows for an owner to have so many options to tire these guys out! They do require regular grooming, but have an absolutely gorgeous coat when maintained. They can weigh anywhere from 45-65lbs, have incredible strength for their size, and are one of the most graceful dogs, exhibiting an easy and effortless looking gait.
The Urban Lifestyle
Do you live downtown in a condo or apartment? Do you have a demanding job, but still want a fur-kid to come home to? All dogs require regular exercise, we can not neglect that; however some dogs certainly require less than others, and are quite happy to curl up on the couch with you after a long day. Do you want a dog that is innately happy and adaptable to your fast-paced and sometimes changing lifestyle? Check out these guys if this sounds like you:
Papillon
Okay, I'm admitting it up front, I am biased on this one - my fur-kid is a Papillon. This breed comes from France and got it's name from it's very large ears that resemble a butterfly (or Papillon, in French). These little guys can be dated back to the 16th Century where they were extremely popular with French Royalty. Louis XIV of France was particularly fond of them. Selective breeding of this dog has resulted in a considerably smaller version today, than the original breed, and has also eliminated many genetic health problems, making this one of the healthiest of the small breeds. They have not ever been close to extinction, but for some reason in modern times, they are not the most popular of breeds either.
Their typical temperament is extremely responsive and trainable, they are friendly and inquisitive, and thrive on mental stimulation along with their exercise. The one thing to note, is they are quite slender and fragile. In my experience, the best part of this breed is their huge, innately happy personality, coming from their tiny little bodies! The weigh in anywhere from 4-9lbs, and do have regular grooming requirements. But you can't help a lot of smiling and laughing with one of these guys around.
Chinese Crested Dog
I know, I know, everyone seems to be aware of this breed because of the hairless varieties, and well, to a lot of people that is just, plain odd. However, they also come in what is called the "Powderpuff" form, which is not hairless at all! The origins of this breed are not well recorded, but it is generally accepted that they originated in Africa, and were brought to China as early as the 13th Century. Chinese seafarers were said to keep them on ship as non-flea-bearing ratters. They did not show up in North America until the late 1800's and probably would not have survived if it wasn't for a handful of committed breeders. They did not become an AKC recognized breed until 1991!
Their temperament is playful, sensitive and they generally love people and being a lapdog. Their exercise requirements are quite low, such that some vigorous inside games will keep them healthy and happy. This breed is also quite fragile, the Powderpuff coat requires regular grooming, and the hairless variety can require skincare such as moisturizer and sunblock. They also do not like the cold. If your lifestyle is more indoors, and you love to cuddle with a sweet little one that is eager to please, this breed might be for you. Please don't write these guys off because they are hairless! For starters, you can always get the Powderpuff (they are adorable!), but give the hairless a chance .... Their skin almost feels like velvet!
I hope this spreads a bit of light on some breeds that people would not generally think to own, but could turn out to be the best companion they ever imagined!
~ Ash & Pebbles
*Photo credits: blacfriar.com; dogbreedspk.blogspot.ca; newdogworld.com
