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West Highland White Terrier
The hardy West Highland White Terrier, more commonly known as the “Westie,” is known for its friendly, strong-willed personality and a remarkably bright white coat. Said to be “all terrier,” this breed possesses a large amount of spunk, determination, and devotion stuffed into a compact little body. The confident Westie excels in a variety of AKC events, from conformation to agility to obedience.
History
The West Highland White Terrier is said to originate from Poltalloch, Scotland, and due to this, was originally known as the Poltalloch Terrier. He was also sometimes referred to as the Roseneath Terrier, after the Duke of Argyll's estate. The Westie was first shown in the United States in 1906 under the Roseneath name, but this was changed in 1909 and he has been known as the West Highland White Terrier ever since.
Temperament
The Westie loves people and makes an affectionate addition to any family. This devoted, happy and faithful dog also makes a wonderful travel companion due to its small size. Their dry coats are a combination of a soft dense undercoat and a rough outer coat. Daily brushing and regular clipping or stripping of the coat is necessary.
- Terrier Group; AKC recognized in 1908.
- Ideal height is 10 to 11 inches tall at the shoulder.
- Vermin hunter, family companion.
Environment
- Apartment is ok.
- Very active indoors.
Exercise
- Daily moderate exercise.
Grooming
- Regular brushing.
- Periodic professional grooming recommended.
- Little to no shedding.
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Standard Poodle
The Poodle, though often equated to the beauty with no brains, is exceptionally smart, active and excels in obedience training. The breed comes in three size varieties, which may contribute to why Poodle is one of the most popular breeds according to AKC Registration statistics. Poodles can be a variety of solid colors, including white, black, apricot and gray, and parti-colored.
History
The breed originated in Germany as a water retriever. The stylish “Poodle clip” was designed by hunters to help the dogs move through the water more efficiently. The patches of hair left on the body are meant to protect vital organs and joints which are susceptible to cold. The Standard variety is the oldest of the three varieties.
Ranked second most intelligent dog breed just behind the Border Collie, the poodle is skillful in many dog sports and activities, including agility, obedience, tracking to herding, circus performers or assistance dogs. Poodles have taken top honors in many conformation shows, including “Best in Show” at the Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show in 1991 and 2002, and at the World Dog Show in 2007 and 2010.
Temperament
The Poodle can accommodate nearly any size living quarters. His hypoallergenic coat may reduce allergic reactions, but requires regular professional grooming. Poodles are an active breed and require daily exercise.
- Non-Sporting (Standard and Miniature) and Toy (Toy) Groups; AKC recognized in 1887.
- Water retriever, companion.
Environment
- Apartment is fine.
- Low activity indoors.
Exercise
- Daily light to moderate exercise.
Grooming
- Regular brushing.
- Regular professional grooming is recommended.
- Little to no shedding.
- Easy on allergy sufferers.
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Weimaraner
Often referred to as the “grey ghost” because of the distinctive color of its short, sleek coat, the Weimaraner is a graceful dog with aristocratic features. Bred for speed, good scenting ability, courage and intelligence, he remains an excellent game hunter and active participant in other dog sports.
History
Originally known as the Weimer Pointer (derived from the court that sponsored the breed), the Weimaraner is a product of selective German breeding and comes from the same general stock as other German hunting breeds. It is believed to be a descendant of the Bloodhound and was originally used to hunt wolves, deer and bear. Over the years because of the rarity of bigger game in his surroundings, the Weimaraner adapted to become a bird dog and personal hunting companion.
Temperament
Lauded for his ability to work with great speed, fearlessness and endurance when on the hunt, the Weimaraner is also known for being an easily trainable, friendly and obedient member of the family. This is a breed that loves children and enjoys being part of his family's “pack.” Grooming maintenance is low due to his short coat.
- Sporting Group; AKC recognized in 1943.
- Average size: 23 to 27 inches tall at the shoulder.
- Hunting dog, family companion.
Environment
- Apartment is ok.
- Low activity indoors.
Exercise
- Daily extended and vigorous exercise.
Grooming
- Easy care.
- Average shedding.
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Cockapoo
The Cockapoo is a cross between the Cocker Spaniel and the Poodle. The best way to determine the temperament of a mixed breed is to look up all breeds in the cross and know you can get any combination of any of the characteristics found in either breed. Not all of these designer hybrid dogs being bred are 50% purebred to 50% purebred. It is very common for breeders to breed multi-generation crosses. Note: some Cockapoo clubs are working towards making the Cockapoo a purebred dog by multi-generation crossing, while other breeders are sticking to the basic Poodle / Cocker mix stating they wish to preserve the heterosis effect in the hybrid mix. Ask the breeder you contact which type of Cockapoo they are breeding.