Machine Name

dog

Irish Water Spaniel

The Irish Water Spaniel is a strong, intelligent dual-purpose hunting dog with a natural instinct to please. An active and energetic companion, the Irish Water Spaniel may be reserved with strangers but is loyal to those he knows. The breed requires regular exercise, and his hypoallergenic coat looks best with occasional brushing and trimming.

DID YOU KNOW? The Irish Water Spaniel has webbed feet, which help him to excel at swimming.

ALSO KNOWN AS: Whiptail, Shannon Spaniel, Rat Tail Spaniel, Bog Dog

The need-to-know

Dog suitable for owners with some experience
Some training required
Enjoys vigorous walks
Enjoys walking more than two hours a day
Medium dog
Minimum drool
Requires grooming every other day
Hypoallergenic breed
Chatty and vocal dog
Not a guard dog
May require training to live with other pets
Great family dog

Lifespan:

10-12 years

Weight:

20-30kg

Height:

53-58cm for males and 51-56cm for females

Colours:

Dark liver shade with hints of purple

Size:

Medium

UK Kennel Club Groups:

Gundog

Lifespan:

10-12 years

Weight:

20-30kg

Height:

53-58cm for males and 51-56cm for females

Colours:

Dark liver shade with hints of purple

Size:

Medium

UK Kennel Club Groups:

Gundog

Personality

The Irish Water Spaniel is really a versatile gundog able to retrieve flush and hunt. Excellent at work whether the job is traditional gundog work or field trial competition, they are also a fun and affectionate pet at home. Aloof and standoffish with strangers, they are even-tempered and confident once mature and make friends with relative ease. As puppies they can be sensitive and slow to mature, and so care must be taken not to overwhelm them.

History and Origins

Country of Origin: Ireland Although they carry the word spaniel in their name, the origins of the Irish Water Spaniel include retrieving dogs such as the Poodle, Portuguese Water Dog and Barbet, and their function was retrieving from water, flushing and hunting. Their original name was the Irish Water Dog and the first documented example of the breed was a dog called Boatswain who belonged to a Dubliner, Justin Mc

Carthy. All modern Irish Water Spaniels decent from this dog, born in 1834!

Nutrition and Feeding

The Irish Water Spaniel needs to have a balanced diet including all the main nutrient groups and a constant supply of fresh water. It's also important to conduct regular?body condition?scores to ensure you keep your dog in ideal shape and remember to feed your pet at least twice daily and in accordance with the feeding guidelines of their particular food.

Exercise

The Irish Water Spaniel is a dog who needs two or more hours of dog exercise, out and about, exploring the countryside and covering distance in whatever the weather happens to be doing (as the breed has a water-proof, weather-proof coat0. Countryside walking and taking in the delights of whatever pond, stream or river they happen across, the Irish Water Spaniel is energetic and knows how to have fun – and so needs an owner with exactly the same attitude to life and leisure time!

Other Information

Health and common issues

As with many breeds, the Irish Water Spaniel can suffer from various hereditary eye disorders, and hip dysplasia (a condition that can lead to mobility problems). Eye testing and hip scoring of dogs prior to breeding is therefore important. Check with the Kennel Club and breed club for up-to-date health information.

Space requirements

The Irish Water Spaniel requires a home with a decent-sized garden and secure fencing. They do not cope well with busy, frantic or noisy environments so a rural or quiet suburban home are best. Access to a wide variety of rural walking is vital to keep this clever, energetic breed happy.

Training irish water spaniels

The Irish Water Spaniel is a sensitive yet clever breed. They take to dog training well as long as it is done with kindness, patience and plenty of reward. Do not over-face the young Irish Water Spaniel with too much work or difficult tasks, but work to build a strong bond of trust and co-operation first and you’ll be rewarded for your patience later with a rock-solid companion who can take part in a variety of activities, from walks that end in the pub to high levels of competition.

Best family dog breeds

The Irish Water Spaniel is Ideal for the active family who enjoy long walks, outdoor activity and training. Better with older, quieter children and teenagers who want to get involved in some sort of dog sport or activity. A little too sensitive for very young families with small children or very busy, noisy households. While many dogs are traditionally thought of as being good with children, all dogs and children need to be taught to get on with each other and be safe together. Even so, dogs and young children should never be left alone together and adults should supervise all interactions between them.

Did you know?

The actor Geena Davis owns an Irish Water Spaniel, and it is via her dog that she met her husband. He got in touch with her to let her know her dog had bitten him when he visited a mutual friend’s home where the dog was staying at the time. The dog was obviously forgiven though as not long after they got married!
Geena Davis has another Irish Water Spaniel connection, in the film The Long Kiss Goodnight, starring Geena and Samuel L. Jackson, an unnamed Irish Water Spaniel has a 30 second cameo!

Field Spaniel

The Field Spaniel is a medium-sized dog, slightly longer than they are tall and with a gentle, noble expression. The coat is medium/long, glossy and thick with ample feathering on the chest, stomach and backs of the legs.

The need-to-know

Dog suitable for non-experienced owners
Some training required
Enjoys vigorous walks
Enjoys walking more than two hours a day
Medium dog
Some drool
Requires grooming every other day
Non hypoallergenic breed
Chatty and vocal dog
Not a guard dog
May require training to live with other pets
Great family dog

Lifespan:

10 – 12 years

Weight:

18 – 25kg

Height:

46cm

Colours:

Rich liver, black or roan, with or without tan markings

Size:

Medium

UK Kennel Club Groups:

Gundog

Lifespan:

10 – 12 years

Weight:

18 – 25kg

Height:

46cm

Colours:

Rich liver, black or roan, with or without tan markings

Size:

Medium

UK Kennel Club Groups:

Gundog

Personality

The Field Spaniel is an active dog. Whilst calmer and less ‘busy’ than the Cocker, the Field Spaniel is still a spaniel, with the brains and desire to work that is common across all the spaniel types. Ideally suited to an outdoor, country life, the Field Spaniel is an excellent mix of sweet temperament and working ability, in the right home.

History and Origins

Country of Origin: England Developed approximately 150 years ago from a mixture of Cocker and Sussex Spaniels, and possibly others, the breed fell out of favour during both world wars. In the 1960’s breed enthusiasts revived the Field Spaniel by introducing Cocker and Springer Spaniel blood. Considered to be sweet, affectionate and mild, the Field Spaniel remains a rare breed with many people favouring the more active and flashily marked Cocker Spaniel or the larger Springers.

Nutrition and Feeding

The Field Spaniel needs to have a balanced diet including all the main nutrient groups and a constant supply of fresh water. It's also important to conduct regular?body condition?scores to ensure you keep your dog in ideal shape and remember to feed your pet at least twice daily and in accordance with the feeding guidelines of their particular food.

Exercise

Two or more hours of dog exercise per day ideally via a variety of activities that engage this clever dog’s mind, as well as their body. Versatile and intelligent, the Field Spaniel will do well in a range of dog sports and competition, as long as they are with their family and kept well entertained.

Other Information

Health and common issues

The Field Spaniel is generally a hardy breed. As with many breeds, they can suffer from various hereditary eye disorders, and hip and elbow dysplasia (joint conditions that can be painful and lead to mobility problems). Eye testing and hip scoring of dogs prior to breeding is therefore important.

Space requirements

The Field Spaniel does not require lavish housing, but will want to spend time with their family, and will require a securely fenced garden and access to interesting and varied country walks. Country or rural suburbs will suit the Field Spaniel best as they are likely to find the busy, noisy city environments overstimulating and stressful.

Training field spaniels

The Field Spaniel will enjoy a wide range of activities, as long as they are working with their owner or family, they’ll have fun. Field Spaniels find carrying and holding objects in their mouths inherently reinforcing, so early and consistent training in retrieving to hand, and being willing to swap items for toys and treats is vital to ensure misunderstandings do not occur. This is a busy dog who likes to follow scent and explore the open countryside so a strong recall and good training to ignore livestock is a must. Easily motivated to work for toys or treats, the Field Spaniel is fun to train and work with.

Best family dog breeds

The Field Spaniel is an excellent family dog for those with children old enough to understand how to behave around dogs and ideally help with training and enjoy long country walks or dog sports. As spaniels enjoy picking up and carrying objects it is important to teach the dog to retrieve and swap and to teach children not to take items from the dog or chase the dog to get items back as this can lead to behavioural problems. While many dogs are traditionally thought of as being good with children, all dogs and children need to be taught to get on with each other and be safe together. Even so, dogs and young children should never be left alone together and adults should supervise all interactions between them.

Did you know?

The Field Spaniel is one of Britain’s Vulnerable Breeds, with the highest number of puppy registrations in the last five years only 80! The Vulnerable Breeds list was created to highlight breeds at risk of disappearing and it is a shame the Field Spaniel is not more popular, as being calmer, they are often far better suited to family life than the more popular Cockers, Working Cockers or Springers.

English Springer Spaniel

Originally born in the same litters as Cocker Spaniels, the larger English Springer Spaniel was recognised as a distinct breed in 1902. An enthusiastic hunting companion used to flush game, the English Springer Spaniel is a cheerful, affectionate and sociable family dog. The English Springer requires frequent brushing and trimmings. An active breed, he also requires daily exercise.

DID YOU KNOW? English Springer Spaniels were popular with presidents George Bush Sr. and George Bush Jr. The former owned a female named “Millie” and her puppy “Ranger,” and the latter owned another of Millie’s puppies, called “Spot.”

ALSO KNOWN AS: Springer Spaniel

The need-to-know

Dog suitable for non-experienced owners
Extra training required
Enjoys vigorous walks
Enjoys walking more than two hours a day
Medium dog
Some drool
Requires grooming every other day
Non hypoallergenic breed
Chatty and vocal dog
Not a guard dog
May require training to live with other pets
Great family dog

Lifespan:

12 – 14 years

Weight:

23 – 25kg

Height:

46 – 56cm

Colours:

Black and white, liver and white or either of these with tan markings

Size:

Medium

UK Kennel Club Groups:

Gundog

Lifespan:

12 – 14 years

Weight:

23 – 25kg

Height:

46 – 56cm

Colours:

Black and white, liver and white or either of these with tan markings

Size:

Medium

UK Kennel Club Groups:

Gundog

Personality

Naturally a busy, extroverted type, the Springer Spaniel is friendly, quick to learn and eager to please. Show varieties can be less active and appear calmer than working types, however all retain the desire to find items and carry objects in their mouths. If their needs are understood and met, they make great companion dogs for the active outdoor family.

History and Origins

Country of Origin: England

The Springer Spaniel name comes from their action in the field, ‘springing’ game out of cover toward waiting guns, however the English Springer Spaniel also has a long history of retrieving shot game, making this an ever popular working breed, able to turn a paw to multiple tasks and with the required stamina and athleticism to see them through a long working day. Originally derived from similar breeds in Spain, the English Springer Spaniel remains closest to the ‘Land Spaniel’ prototype which eventually became refined and split into the other popular British Spaniel breeds.

Nutrition and Feeding

Your dog's diet needs to have the right balance of all the main nutrient groups including a constant supply of fresh water. It's important to conduct regular?body condition?scores to ensure you keep your dog in ideal shape and remember to feed them at least twice daily and in accordance with the feeding guidelines of their particular food.

Exercise

This is an energetic, outdoor dog, with plenty of stamina for either work or play. Several hours exercise per day is required although some of this should take the form of mental stimulation via scent games and retrieve work to help exercise this working dog’s busy mind and body. They will enjoy being involved in family activities, and should be taught to settle quietly from a young age, avoiding the temptation to try to exhaust them – a task that will never be fulfilled!

Other Information

Health and common issues

English Springer Spaniels are generally a hardy breed. However, as with many breeds, they can suffer from various hereditary eye disorders, and hip and elbow dysplasia (joint conditions that can be painful and lead to mobility problems). Eye testing and hip scoring of dogs prior to breeding is therefore important. A particular type of anaemia is also seen more frequently in the breed. The breed club monitor the health of the breed carefully and should be contacted for the most up-to-date information and details of any DNA or additional testing they recommend. Breed Clubs can be found on the Kennel Club website.

Space requirements

English Springer Spaniels are economical dogs when it comes to housing and transportation and don’t need a large indoor space, but are happiest when wet and muddy in the middle of the countryside. As such, these are very much rural dogs that will need long energetic walks with plenty of opportunities to run, sniff and explore.

Training english springer spaniels

This is a breed who will actively enjoy training, whether in traditional gundog activities or any of the wide variety of dog sports and activities now available. They lend themselves well to scent work of any kind, and would enjoy tracking, man-trailing or scent discrimination. Springers are still very much working dogs at heart and so need a ‘job’ to do – whatever that is – as a bored Springer Spaniel is difficult to live with. Responding best to positive, reward-based training, English Springers should be taught early on to retrieve and swap found objects happily, and to recall reliably as their busy noses can lead them anywhere.

Best family dog breeds

The Springer Spaniel is a friendly affectionate dog who is great for an active outdoorsy family, who aren’t afraid of mud and rain and love long country rambles. For less active families however they may be too demanding in their exercise requirements and while they would be happy to curl up in the pub after a long walk, they are certainly not a couch potato on a daily basis. While many dogs are traditionally thought of as being good with children, all dogs and children need to be taught to get on with and respect each other and be safe together. Even so, dogs and young children should never be left alone together and adults should supervise all interactions between them.

Did you know?

Springer and Cocker Spaniels used to be the same breed, occurring in the same litters, with the larger puppies being the Springers and the smaller being the Cockers. They were split into separately recognised breeds in 1892 by the Kennel Club of Great Britain. Although originating from the ‘Land Spaniels’ Springer Spaniels are known for their love of water, and love a good swim or just a splash in a puddle or even their own water bowl.
Despite the name ‘Springer Spaniel’ only being given later on, there are painting with dogs that resemble the breed in the 16th century.
English Springer Spaniels have won the third most Best in Show awards at the Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show with an impressive 6 titles.
They’re a favourite with celebrities including George W. Bush, Princess Grace and Oprah Winfrey.

Cocker Spaniel (English)

English Cocker Spaniels are medium-sized, well-balanced dogs. Their coats are flat and silky with plenty of feathering on the front legs.

The need-to-know

Dog suitable for non-experienced owners
Some training required
Enjoys vigorous walks
Enjoys walking more than two hours a day
Medium dog
Some drool
Requires grooming every other day
Non hypoallergenic breed
Chatty and vocal dog
Not a guard dog
May require training to live with other pets
Great family dog

Lifespan:

12 – 15 years

Weight:

13 – 14.5kg

Height:

38 – 41cm

Colours:

Cocker Spaniels come in a multitude of different colours and combinations, including solid colours of black, red, orange and brown, combinations of black with white, liver with white, red and white, blue roan, orange roans, black roans, particolours and t

Size:

Medium

Kennel Club Group:

Gundog

Lifespan:

12 – 15 years

Weight:

13 – 14.5kg

Height:

38 – 41cm

Colours:

Size:

Medium

Kennel Club Group:

Gundog

Personality

The Cocker Spaniel is a busy, friendly dog who thrives on human companionship, wanting nothing more than to please their owners. They are ideal pets where there are children about and they get on well with other household animals.

Cocker Spaniels are a very happy breed, constantly wagging their tails and always on the go. They are easily trained, being both clever and eager to learn.

History and Origins

Country of Origin: England

The English Cocker Spaniel is the most popular of the spaniel breeds and is one of the oldest of the land spaniels. Prior to the early 1800, the Cocker and the Springer Spaniel’s were categorised together and called simply the Land Spaniel but they developed to have different jobs depending on their size - the larger ones being used to ‘spring’ game and the smaller ones to flush out woodcock. The difference between the two became more pronounced thanks to selective breeding by their various devotees, and in 1893, they were finally recognised as two separate breeds - and this is how they got the names we know today - the Springer and the Cocker.The advantages of the Cocker were that as they were smaller and faster, they could easily push themselves into hedgerows and dense scrubland and so flush game that larger spaniels were unable to get to.

Nutrition and Feeding

Your dog's diet needs to have the right balance of all the main nutrient groups including a constant supply of fresh water. It's also important to conduct regular?body condition?scores to ensure you keep your dog in ideal shape and remember to feed them at least twice daily and in accordance with the feeding guidelines of their particular food.

Exercise

The Cocker Spaniel is active, busy, energetic dog who loves exercise and needs between an hour to two hours every day although will happily take more - but will still enjoy games, training, interactive toys and being involved in all family activities at the rest of the time too.

Other Information

Health and common issues

One of the most common problems encountered in the English Cocker Spaniel is recurrent ear infections, due to their large ear flaps. As with many breeds, they can suffer from various hereditary eye disorders, and hip dysplasia (a condition that can lead to mobility problems). Eye testing and hip scoring of dogs prior to breeding is therefore important. The breed club monitor the health of the breed carefully and should be contacted for the most up-to-date information and details of any DNA or additional testing they recommend. Breed Clubs can be found on the Kennel Club website.

Space requirements

While they are fairly small dogs, they really need a country home - or certainly a semi-rural environment so they can get the exercise they need.

Training cocker spaniels

This is an active dog who will need training if you want any hope of a quiet life! They are a joy to train however as they are intelligent and love working with their owner - but they will learn bad habits as quickly as good ones so reward-based training should start early and be ongoing. This is a great breed for dog sports such as agility or even pet gundog work - and they will love having an active job to do. They will enjoy scent work games too. It is important to train a Cocker Spaniel to enjoy handling and grooming (as they will need a lot of it) and to happily give up any prizes they may rather hold onto - always using positive, reward-based methods. Given they have a working gundog background, they should be well socialised with cats (who they can learn to live with happily) but watched with caution around other small animals and birds.

Best family dog breeds

Cocker Spaniels make great family dogs for active energetic families - but tend to need too much exercise and input for parents of younger children so may suit slightly older children better. While many dogs are traditionally thought of as being good with children, all dogs and children need to be taught to get on with and respect each other, and be safe together. Even so, dogs and young children should never be left alone together and adults should supervise all interactions between them.

Did you know?

There are two very different types of Cocker Spaniel - the English Cocker Spaniel and the American Cocker Spaniel. Enthusiasts on both sides of the Atlantic argue about which one is the ‘real’ one!
Cocker Spaniel’s paw pads inspired the sole for the first ever boat shoes when Paul Sperry witnessed his dog running on ice without a problem.
Lady, from Lady and the Tramp was a Cocker Spaniel.
George Clooney has a Cocker Spaniel called Einstein.
They make terrible guard dogs as they’re much too friendly.

Clumber Spaniel

The Clumber Spaniel is an intelligent and determined dog with a long, low build and slow, rolling gait. The Clumber originated in 18th-century France where he was coveted for his superb hunting ability. Gentle, loyal and affectionate, the Clumber does well with families and other animals. He is enthusiastic about work and play. Clumbers prefer daily walks to heavy exercise. Their dense coats require daily brushing.

DID YOU KNOW? Though he was one of the first 10 breeds recognised by the American Kennel Club, the Clumber Spaniel is a rare breed in the U.S. today.

The need-to-know

Dog suitable for owners with some experience
Some training required
Enjoys active walks
Enjoys walking an hour a day
Medium dog
Heavy drool
Requires grooming every other day
Non hypoallergenic breedQuiet dog
Not a guard dog
Great with other pets
Great family dog

Lifespan:

10 – 12 years

Weight:

25 – 34kg

Height:

45 – 50cm

Colours:

Mainly white with lemon or orange markings and freckling to the muzzle

Size:

Large

UK Kennel Club Groups:

Gundog

Lifespan:

10 – 12 years

Weight:

25 – 34kg

Height:

45 – 50cm

Colours:

Mainly white with lemon or orange markings and freckling to the muzzle

Size:

Large

UK Kennel Club Groups:

Gundog

Personality

The Clumber Spaniel being heavier built is slower to mature than other spaniels and generally steadier all round. They are a good natured, affable breed, dignified yet amusing and willing to do whatever task you take the time to teach them. As happy on the sofa as they are following a scent, the Clumber makes a devoted family dog.

History and Origins

Country of Origin: England

The Clumber Spaniel is another breed with somewhat vague romanticised origins involving French nobility, English Dukes and revolutions, however there is little evidence to support such ideas.The breed does owe their existence to the Duke of Newcastle and their name comes from his estate, Clumber Park where the Duke created his own particular type of heavy, steady Spaniel from the various hunting dogs available at the time. These may have included dogs imported from France, where notably, longer haired low slung ‘basset’ types were popular as these allowed huntsmen on foot to follow them without the need for horses.

Nutrition and Feeding

Large breed dogs, as well as having large appetites, benefit from a different balance of nutrients including minerals and vitamins compared to smaller-breed dogs.

Exercise

A strong, reliable recall is vital for off lead exercise, as whilst they are a slower moving Spaniel, they have considerable stamina and perseverance. Around an hour’s exercise per day with plenty of opportunity to enjoy finding scent and using their impressive nose will keep the Clumber Spaniel happy.

Other Information

Health and common issues

As with many breeds, the Clumber Spaniel can suffer from hereditary eye disorders, and hip dysplasia (a condition that can lead to mobility problems). Eye testing and hip scoring of dogs prior to breeding is therefore important. The breed club monitor the health of the breed carefully and should be contacted for the most up-to-date information and details of any DNA or additional testing they recommend. Breed Clubs can be found on the Kennel Club website.

Space requirements

The Clumber is a large dog on short legs, and this must be kept in mind when housing and buying equipment. Everything will be drooled on and coated in white hair! As with all low-slung dogs, whilst the Clumber Spaniel dries quickly and is easily brushed off, a sizeable quantity of mud and water can be gathered on paws and undercarriage. Suitable space to allow the Clumber to dry off after walks is necessary, but otherwise they are not hard to house. Providing a variety of interesting walks can be offered, the Clumber Spaniel can be happy in country or leafy suburb.

Training spaniel (clumber)

The Clumber Spaniel can be trained to a variety of activities and sports, particularly anything scent based, just remember they will do them at a slower, steadier pace than others. With the right understanding of what motivates him, and a ‘working together’ approach, the Clumber is easy to train and fun to spend time with. Teaching a recall is vital as the Clumbers excellent nose can otherwise lead him into trouble. As with all breeds who like to carry objects in their mouths, teaching a retrieve and swap game from a young age is important.

Best family dog breeds

The Clumber Spaniel is a steady and dependable character once adult; puppies of course can be more enthusiastic. As adults, this is a heavy breed so care should be taken with small children, those frail or unsteady on their feet and of course with smaller pets. While many dogs are traditionally thought of as being good with children, all dogs and children need to be taught to get on with and respect each other, and be safe together. Even so, dogs and young children should never be left alone together and adults should supervise all interactions between them.

Did you know?

Prince Albert owned 7 Clumber Spaniels, and King Edward VII commissioned Faberge to carve a Clumber, ‘Sandringham Lucy’ from Chalcedony, with rubies set as eyes. This was purchased in 1909 by the then Prince of Wales (later King George V) for £102.
While not quite as popular as they were in Victorian times, Clumber Spaniels still have their celebrity fans, with TV Chef James Martin having owned a Clumber named Fudge.
Clumber Spaniel’s are seen in artwork as early as 1788, where they appeared with the Duke of Newcastle and his hunting party in Francis Wheatley’s painting, “The Return from Shooting”.
The UK Kennel Club has deemed the Clumber Spaniel a vulnerable native breed and there’s less than 300 new dogs registered each year in the UK.
The Clumber Spaniel was one of the first official breeds recognised by the American Kennel Club.

American Cocker Spaniel

Distinctly different to the English Cocker Spaniel, the American Cocker is smaller, with a more rounded skull and a profuse and glamorous coat.

The need-to-know

Dog suitable for non-experienced owners
Some training required
Enjoys vigorous walks
Enjoys walking more than two hours a day
Medium dog
Some drool
Requires grooming every other day
Non hypoallergenic breed
Chatty and vocal dog
Not a guard dog
May require training to live with other pets
Great family dog

Lifespan:

12 – 15 years

Weight:

10 – 15kg

Height:

34 – 39cm

Colours:

Black, liver, red, golden, black with tan points, brown with tan points and parti-colour. Some distinct markings may be present, specified by the breed standard

Size:

Medium

UK Kennel Club Groups:

Gundog

Lifespan:

12 – 15 years

Weight:

10 – 15kg

Height:

34 – 39cm

Colours:

Black, liver, red, golden, black with tan points, brown with tan points and parti-colour. Some distinct markings may be present, specified by the breed standard

Size:

Medium

UK Kennel Club Groups:

Gundog

Personality

This is a merry and busy little dog. They should be confident and cheerful, although early and thorough socialisation is recommended to avoid fearful or anxious behaviour. One of the smallest of the gundog types, the American Cocker is an intelligent dog who will thrive in a family environment, given sufficient company, exercise and training.

History and Origins

Country of Origin: America

The English Cocker is said to have arrived in America with the Pilgrim Fathers on the Mayflower in 1620. However, this is a claim many have tried to apply to their ancestors, canine or otherwise, and in any case, the Mayflower’s journey pre-dates the UK Kennel Club by over 250 years, and thus the spaniel types had not yet been split into clearly defined breeds. It is reasonable to suspect that early settlers from Britain would have taken the useful working and hunting breeds they had with them to America, and the records do show that a spaniel type was listed as travelling on the Mayflower.

Nutrition and Feeding

Small dogs have a fast metabolism, meaning they burn energy at a high rate, although their small stomachs mean that they must eat little and often. Small-breed foods are specifically designed with appropriate levels of key nutrients and smaller kibble sizes to suit smaller mouths. This also encourages chewing and improves digestion.

Exercise

The American Cocker spaniel may be thought of as more of a show dog than a working dog, but still requires two hours exercise a day – and will happily take more. This should include walking, running and swimming, as well as training and games to exercise their mind. The American Cocker will particularly enjoy scent based games and retrieval games.

Other Information

Health and common issues

One of the most common problems encountered in the American Cocker Spaniel dog breed is recurrent ear infections, due to their large ear flaps. As with many breeds, they can suffer from kneecaps that may temporarily slip out of place (luxating patellas), various hereditary eye disorders, and hip dysplasia (a condition that can lead to mobility problems). Eye testing and hip scoring of dogs prior to breeding is therefore important. The breed club monitor the health of the breed carefully and should be contacted for the most up-to-date information and details of any DNA or additional testing they recommend. Breed Clubs can be found on the Kennel Club website.

Space requirements

As a smaller breed, the American Cocker does not require a huge home, but will need space for grooming and bathing as well as a secure garden for play, toilet trips and training. Better suited to a home without close neighbours as the American Cocker is fond of the sound of their own voice, but otherwise well suited to country or suburban living.

Training american cocker spaniel

Bright, intelligent and busy, the American Cocker is easy and enjoyable to train with the right motivation. Special attention should be given to teaching a good retrieve and building a habit of trading objects happily, as they enjoy carrying objects around. Conflict and confrontation around this can cause resource guarding problems, so avoid forceful methods that may cause fear. The American Cocker is excellent as a show dog, but can be taught to compete well in a variety of dog sports and activities and will thrive in an environment where training is fun and engaging.

Best family dog breeds

An excellent dog for the outdoor family who enjoy dog related hobbies. As with all gundogs, the American Cocker is predisposed to want to carry objects and so must be taught to retrieve and swap happily, and children particularly must be taught never to take items from the dog. As with all small and particularly long haired ‘cute’ breeds, it is very easy for young children to mistake the dog for a toy or plaything, so close supervision or waiting until children are more mature is wise. While many dogs are traditionally thought of as being good with children, all dogs and children need to be taught to get on with and respect each other, and be safe together. Even so, dogs and young children should never be left alone together and adults should supervise all interactions between them.

Did you know?

The Disney animated film “Lady and the Tramp” features a cartoon animated version of an American Cocker Spaniel as Lady. However, it was story artist Joe Grant who came up with the idea for Lady and the Tramp, inspired by the antics of his English Springer Spaniel, Lady!
Celebrity owners of American Cocker Spaniels include Charlize Theron, Oprah Winfrey and 37th President of the USA, Richard Nixon.
American Cocker Spaniel’s are the smallest gundogs in the world. This breed is popularly used as a therapy dog due to their kind and happy natures. A Cocker Spaniel called Tangle was the first ever cancer-detecting dog and apparently his success rate was 80 percent!

Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier

Happy, steady and confident, the Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier originated more than 200 years ago in Ireland as an all-purpose farm dog. Known for his soft, silky wheaten-coloured coat, the breed adapts well to city or country life. He is willing to please and relates well to children. An active breed, the Wheaten needs daily exercise. Though his coat sheds little, regular grooming is necessary to prevent matting.

DID YOU KNOW? Lydia Vogel brought the first Soft Coated Wheaten Terriers to the U.S. in the 1940s.

ALSO KNOWN AS: Wheaten Terrier, Irish Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier

The need-to-know

Dog suitable for owners with some experience
Some training required
Enjoys active walks
Enjoys walking an hour a day
Medium dog
Minimum drool
Requires grooming every other day
Hypoallergenic breed
Chatty and vocal dog
Guard dog. Barks and alerts
May require training to live with other pets
May require training to live with kids

Lifespan:

13 – 15 years

Weight:

14 – 18kg

Height:

43 – 51cm

Colours:

Any shade of warm ripening wheat, but never red, nor white. The ears may be dark too

Size:

Medium

UK Kennel Club Groups:

Terrier

Lifespan:

13 – 15 years

Weight:

14 – 18kg

Height:

43 – 51cm

Colours:

Any shade of warm ripening wheat, but never red, nor white. The ears may be dark too

Size:

Medium

UK Kennel Club Groups:

Terrier

Personality

This is a strong terrier, muscular, compact, and with a sense of fun. A Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier will want to be included in everything you do, and can prove a trustworthy companion in the right home. As with all terriers, there is the sparkle of mischief in their eyes and this is a breed that will keep you on your toes even with frequent training! Intelligent and quick to learn, the Wheaten is also independent and will require motivation in the form of positive reinforcement training using food, toys and the opportunity to perform enjoyable activities.

History and Origins

Country of Origin: Ireland

Although the Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier has been around for over 200 years, their roots are in farm work, eradicating vermin, probably providing some sport for their owners, and guarding/watchdog activities. Some could even turn their hand to driving cattle and herding sheep. As such, owners were not particularly bothered about breeding to a standard, instead rather breeding for function, and so the breed was very variable in appearance and not recognised by the Irish Kennel Club until 1937. The Kennel Club finally recognised the breed in 1975, but the Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier has never been one of the more popular terriers.

Nutrition and Feeding

Exercise

A minimum of an hour per day of walking, ideally more and with a variety of walking routes, free running and engaging activities such as scent work, chasing lures or thrown toys. This is an active dog with a quick mind, if you don’t engage their brain in something constructive it’s likely to become engaged in something destructive!

Other Information

Health and common issues

The Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier is generally a healthy breed but there are a number of inherited conditions they can suffer from. The main ones are a particular type of inherited kidney disease and gastrointestinal disease. They are also prone to allergic skin disease. The breed club monitor the health of the breed carefully and should be contacted for the most up-to-date information and details of any DNA or additional testing they recommend. Breed Clubs can be found on the Kennel Club website.

Space requirements

The Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier does not need lavish housing, but a securely fenced garden is a must. This is an agile hunter who can dig well and jump surprisingly high. Better suited to a quieter rural or suburban home, as the Wheaten will feel the need to alert you to anything seen or heard and this rarely goes down well with the neighbours. Access to a variety of interesting walks and a secure place to run off lead is ideal.

Training soft-coated wheaten terrier

A quick learner with an independent mind, Wheaten’s are often described as stubborn but in reality, they need strong motivation to want to work with their person rather than do their own thing. Understand their desire to chase, rag, kill and bite and provide for those needs with suitable toys, games and activities, and the Wheaten will be a fun and engaging companion. Pay particular attention to socialisation with other dogs, cats and livestock, and work hard on teaching a strong recall and a reliable retrieve and drop.

Best family dog breeds

An excellent family dog with older children in a family that do a lot of dog related activities, long country walks, and enjoy dog training as a hobby. Not ideal with young babies or toddlers as the terrier nature is not forgiving or tolerant, and the time requirements for training, exercise and grooming are quite demanding. While many dogs are traditionally thought of as being good with children, all dogs and children need to be taught to get on with and respect each other, and be safe together. Even so, dogs and young children should never be left alone together and adults should supervise all interactions between them.

Did you know?

A Wheaten named ‘Caidantes Time After Time’, pet name Danny, won the Guinness World Record for Most Performances by A Dog in A Theatrical Production, with 1365 appearances as ‘Sandy’ in the stage show ‘Annie’.
Soft Coated Wheaten Terriers were once known as a ‘poor man’s dog’ as the Irish peasants weren’t allowed to own hounds or spaniels by law. They were also referred to as the ‘poor man’s wolfhound’.
Poorer farmers would use Wheaten’s for every farm job imaginable including livestock herding, vermin hunting, protection and gun dogs.
A Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier called Krista was very successful in the 2016 National Diving Dog Championship. Krista jumped an impressive 10 feet and 2 inches into the water, nearly placing her in the top 10 against larger breeds such as Retrievers.
The breed is often depicted in Victorian art and you can spot one in Frederic William Burton’s 1843 piece, ‘The Aran Fisherman’s Drowned Child’.

Sloughi

The Sloughi dog is a medium/large short-coated hound that has a noble, dignified stature. He is elegant and racy but stronh and muscular. The coat comes in various colours (see the breed standard). Adult males stand at 66-72cm and adult females at 61-68cm. The weight range for the breed is 20-27kg.

The need-to-know

Dog suitable for owners with some experience
Some training required
Enjoys active walks
Enjoys walking an hour a day
Medium dog
Minimum drool
Requires grooming once a week
Non hypoallergenic breed
Quiet dog
Not a guard dog
May require training to live with other pets
May require training to live with kids

Personality

Sloughis are independent dogs that have an inbuilt desire to hunt and have the stamina to keep going. Cats and other small animals are seen as prey to this dog that hasn't been socialised with them from an early age. Not a breed suited to someone who has little time, he makes a devoted, loyal family dog in the right home. This is not a noisy hound.

History and Origins

The Sloughi dog breed is revered by the Bedouin tribesmen, who decorate the Sloughi with talismans and amulets. When a Bedouin goes visiting, his Sloughi is treated with the same respect as any honoured guest, and tribesmen will willingly give up their blanket for their Sloughi should they be cold. And when the Sloughi dog dies, the grief of the Bedouin is apparent and the hound is mourned with dignity. There is evidence of the Sloughi dating back to the Ancient Egyptians, and a mummified body of a Sloughi has been discovered in a tomb.

Nutrition and Feeding

Your dog's diet needs to have the right balance of all the main nutrient groups including a constant supply of fresh water. It's important to conduct regular body condition scores to ensure you keep your dog in ideal shape and remember to feed him at least twice daily and in accordance with the feeding guidelines of his particular food.

Exercise

These dogs require lots of exercise – two-plus hours for an adult dog. Once on the scent of game they will run and run, so exercise off-lead only in safe areas and train a reliable recall.

Other Information

Health and common issues

The Sloughi is generally healthy and robust breed. As with many breeds there are hereditary eye disorders that can occur and so eye testing is recommended.

Best family dog breeds

While many dogs are traditionally thought of as being good with children , all dogs and children need to be taught to get on with and respect each other, and be safe together. Even so, dogs and young children should never be left alone together and adults should supervise all interactions between them.

Skye Terrier

Fiercely loyal and affectionate, the Skye Terrier thrives as a family companion. An elegant medium-sized dog with short legs and a large head, the Skye Terrier was originally bred in the 1600s on the Isle of Skye off the west coast of Scotland. One of the oldest and rarest terrier breeds, the Skye Terrier is friendly with those he knows and cautious around strangers. The breed needs regular exercise, and his soft coat requires brushing several times a week plus regular trimming.

DID YOU KNOW? Fourteen years after his master’s death, a Skye Terrier in Edinburgh, Scotland, named “Bobby,” remained loyal, reportedly spending every night watching over his master's grave in Greyfriars Kirkyard. A statue in memorial of “Greyfriars Bobby” was built near the graveyard in 1873.

The need-to-know

Dog suitable for owners with some experience
Some training required
Enjoys gentle walks
Enjoys walking an hour a day
Small dog
Minimum drool
Requires grooming every other day
Non hypoallergenic breed
Chatty and vocal dog
Guard dog. Barks and alerts
May require training to live with other pets
May require training to live with kids

Lifespan:

12 – 15 years

Weight:

16 – 18kg

Height:

25 – 26cm

Colours:

The coat comes in black, dark or light grey, fawn, cream, all with black points. A small white spot on the chest is occasionally seen

Size:

Medium

UK Kennel Club Groups:

Terrier

Lifespan:

12 – 15 years

Weight:

16 – 18kg

Height:

25 – 26cm

Colours:

The coat comes in black, dark or light grey, fawn, cream, all with black points. A small white spot on the chest is occasionally seen

Size:

Medium

UK Kennel Club Groups:

Terrier

Personality

Devoted to their owners, the Skye Terrier is typically a one-person dog. Strong willed and determined, they can be suspicious of strangers but are devoted to their owner and should be good tempered and cheerful, lively and with a sense of fun.

History and Origins

Country of Origin: Scotland

Originating in the rugged Western Isles off Northern Scotland, the Skye Terrier takes its name from the Isle of Skye, where their tough, tenacious nature and short legs allowed them to go to ground after their quarry. Once Queen Victoria acquired a Skye Terrier in 1842 however, this breed’s popularity as a show-dog and companion increased dramatically, and as a result the breed was altered physically. They became longer, heavier and a more profuse coat was encouraged, but the terrier characteristics, a ‘never say die’ attitude and a strong belief that they are far bigger than reality remains to this day.

Nutrition and Feeding

Exercise

About an hour per day in exercise should keep the Skye Terrier happy. They are however quite inclined towards laziness as long as they’ve had a walk, an opportunity to sniff and some training and games to exercise their mind as well as their body.

Other Information

Health and common issues

The most common health problems encountered in the Skye Terrier is a forelimb bone problem that occurs in growing puppies. Like other breeds with short legs and long spines they are also predisposed to spinal disease. The breed club monitor the health of the breed carefully and should be contacted for the most up-to-date information and details of any DNA or additional testing they recommend. Breed Clubs can be found on the Kennel Club website.

Space requirements

Although on paper this appears a small dog, due to their length, weight and amount of coat, they would be better with more space and limited stairs. Room for grooming and dealing with a wet dog after walks or baths is important, and a secure garden with a fence that cannot be squeezed through or dug under essential. The Skye Terrier can live anywhere within reason, however they are a vocal breed inclined to guarding and alerting to sounds, so inner-city living may prove too stressful for both the dog and your neighbours.

Training skye terrier

The Skye Terrier is more than capable of achieving a good basic level of training, if you understand how to motivate and engage them, however this isn’t a dog who demands hours of mental stimulation. Positive reinforcement training using food and toys will get the best out of this dog. Focus on a good recall and socialisation around children, other pets and livestock. This is a heavily coated breed and so early work on teaching a Skye Terrier to stand for grooming, bathing and drying is essential.

Best family dog breeds

With training and sensible older children, the Skye Terrier makes a good family pet, as long as everyone understands a terrier’s nature. Not ideal with smaller children due to the Skye Terriers long back and short legs which put them at higher risk of injury should a child trip or accidentally fall on the dog. While many dogs are traditionally thought of as being good with children, all dogs and children need to be taught to get on with and respect each other, and be safe together. Even so, dogs and young children should never be left alone together and adults should supervise all interactions between them.

Did you know?

Most people have heard of Greyfriars Bobby, a Skye Terrier famous for his dedication to his owner, so much so that he sat at his owners grave-side in Greyfriars Churchyard for 14 years until he died of old age. Most people don’t know that the character ‘Dougal’ from the 1960’s children’s television show ‘The Magic Roundabout’ was (probably) a drop-eared Skye Terrier.
Sir Edwin Landseer (a painter and sculptor best known for the lion sculptures in Trafalgar Square) created a great many paintings of Skye Terriers and his work helped to popularise the breed during the Victorian era.
Skye Terriers were incredibly popular with the aristocracy in Victorian England and apparently duchesses would be ashamed to be seen walking without one in the park.
It’s thought that Mary, Queen of Scots had a Skye Terrier (though some believe it was a Maltese) and when she was beheaded, her loyal dog hid beneath her petticoat.

Siberian Husky

Originally bred as a sled dog in northeast Asia, the Siberian Husky is known for his endurance and willingness to work. Eager, outgoing and friendly, the breed makes an agreeable family companion. Though he is a gentle dog, the Siberian Husky has a strong predatory instinct and should be supervised around small animals. This working breed needs daily exercise, and his thick coat requires weekly brushing.

DID YOU KNOW? In 1925, the Alaskan city of Nome was stricken by a diphtheria epidemic, and dog teams of Siberians led heroic "serum runs" from Anchorage to Nome to deliver antitoxins. The story of “Balto,” the lead dog of one of these teams, was made into a Disney movie.

ALSO KNOWN AS: Chukcha, Chuksha

The need-to-know

Dog suitable for experienced owners
Extra training required
Enjoys vigorous walks
Enjoys walking one to two hours a day
Medium dog
Minimum drool
Requires grooming daily
Non hypoallergenic breed
Chatty and vocal dog
Guard dog. Barks and alerts
May require training to live with other pets
May require training to live with kids

Lifespan:

12–15 years

Weight:

16–27kg

Height:

51–60cm

Colours:

Black and white, grey, white, black, black and tan, silver, sable and white, grey and white, red and white

Size:

Medium

Kennel Club group:

Working

Lifespan:

12–15 years

Weight:

16–27kg

Height:

51–60cm

Colours:

Black and white, grey, white, black, black and tan, silver, sable and white, grey and white, red and white

Size:

Medium

Kennel Club group:

Working

Personality

The Siberian Husky is very much a working dog at heart - they are however friendly, gentle, and alert. They are not dogs who will ever shine in the obedience ring however - as they are independent, scorn training and are selectively bred for one purpose. They are active and agile - and as such can be difficult to keep as a companion dog. They are quiet most of the time as they don’t bark - but they do howl which is a joy for most huskies (but not their neighbours!).

History and Origins

Country of Origin: Russia

This is one of the oldest and purest of the northern sled dogs and it’s said that they have been bred in their native Siberia as long as 3000 years ago. To the natives of the area, these dogs were key to their survival and were selectively bred to be able to carry loads over long distances at great speeds. The dogs lived alongside the families and so only non-aggressive dogs that were friendly towards the children were used in this ancient breeding programme - along with only the very best sled dogs.At the end of the 19th century, word of this ‘super dog’ reached the Americas and in 1909 a team of huskies were sent to take part in an Alaskan sled race - where they easily beat the larger but slower Malamutes who had until then dominated.

Nutrition and Feeding

Exercise

This breed does need a considerable amount of exercise but this must be done in a safe, enclosed area, or on a lead, as they do have a strong desire to run if free and cannot be relied upon to return when called. A very well-fenced garden is a necessity and, as they can jump anything from a standstill, height is also important. An adult Siberian needs two-plus hours of exercise daily and an appropriate opportunity to run.

Other Information

Health and common issues

The Siberian Husky is generally a healthy, hardy breed. However, as with many breeds, they can suffer from hereditary eye disorders and occasionally hip dysplasia (a condition that can lead to mobility problems). Eye testing and hip scoring of dogs prior to breeding is therefore important.

Space requirements

A Husky needs a decent sized house (without central heating or at least not too warm) but most importantly they need space to run and so a rural setting suits them best. It also means the neighbours are less likely to be disturbed by the inevitable howling.

Training siberian huskies

Siberian Huskies see no point in training whatsoever - their joy is to run and their view is that they don’t need to be trained to do that! They should however be well socialised and trained to walk on a harness and lead. Walking without pulling can be a challenge for this breed given that is what they were bred to do. A good recall should also be taught but this is for emergencies and not generally to be relied upon. This is a breed who will hunt small animals and so owners should watch out for that.

Best family dog breeds

The Siberian Husky is somewhat of a specialist dog who needs to run and who is probably far too high maintenance for most families. While many dogs are traditionally thought of as being good with children, all dogs and children need to be taught to get on with and respect each other, and be safe together. Even so, dogs and young children should never be left alone together and adults should supervise all interactions between them.

Did you know?

The Siberian Husky was developed as a sled dog to carry light loads at high speeds over extremely long distances. During World War Two however they turned their paw to being search and rescue dogs working with the US military in the Arctic Circle.
When they sleep, Huskies are known to wrap their tails around their faces, this allows for their breath to warm their tail and keeps their nose and face protected from the cold.
A group of Siberian Huskies saved a small town in Nome, Alaska when they were affected by a very serious disease called diphtheria. The only antidote was hundreds of miles away in Anchorage and it was too treacherous to get there by any way other than dog and sled.
They have super friendly personalities and so they’re not very well suited to being watchdogs.
A Husky’s howl can be heard from 10 miles away!

Dog