BACKGROUND
Labradors originated in Newfoundland, off the coast of Canada, and were taken to England on fishing boats in the early 19th century. Here they were developed and bred as a hunting dog, being used for retrieving game in rugged terrain and icy waters. They were popular as tough, strong dogs with excellent scenting powers and a desire to please.
AVERAGE LIFESPAN
Labradors live from between 12 to 15 years of age. Continue Reading…
BACKGROUND
The Swedish Vallhund dates back to 8th Century Sweden where the breed was utilised as farm dogs, primarily for herding cattle. The Swedish Vallhund is known in its native land as Vastgotaspets, which means Spitz of the West Goths. This dog is also known as the Swedish Shepherd. In Sweden it is believed the Vallhund travelled to Wales with the Viking raiders and went on to become the ancestor of the Pembroke Welsh Corgi. The Swedish Vallhund was first introduced into Australia in 1981.
AVERAGE LIFESPAN
Swedish Vallhunds can live up to 15 years of age.
AVERAGE SIZE & WEIGHT
33cm to 35cm
11kg to 16kg
BREED PERSONALITY, CHARACTERISTICS & TEMPERAMENT
The Swedish Vallhund is a chirpy little working dog, in which the herding instinct is still very evident. An energetic breed, the Vallhund is friendly, active, agile and very intelligent. Continue Reading…
BACKGROUND
The Basset Fauve de Bretagne first appeared in Brittany (France) during the 1800s and was originally used for hunting small game. Little is known about it’s pedigree but it is thought to be a cross between the Griffon Fauve de Bretagne (notable for its tracking skills) and the Brittany Basset. Continue Reading…
BACKGROUND
Ancestors of the Bernese Mountain Dogs were brought into Switzerland more than 2000 years ago by forces of invading Roman soldiers, and although they can still to be found on farms of central Switzerland today, by the end of last century the breed had degenerated to such an extent as to be unrecognisable.The Bernese Mountain Dog was mainly used as a drover’s dog and a watchdog in the farmyards in the Canton of Berne. Sufficient dogs of correct type remained for a rehabilitation program to be undertaken by fanciers and by 1907 a breed club was formed, and the breed found favour with many Swiss as a pet and companion.
AVERAGE LIFESPAN
These beautiful dogs can live up to 12 years of age, but fed the right food will usually live up to 14 years. Continue Reading…
BACKGROUND
The Basenji, Africa’s barkless dog, existed in the early days of the Pharaohs, and in fact the breed is older than the Pyramids themselves. It was not until 1895 that Western civilization discovered the Basenji in the Congo regions being used by the various tribes as a hunting dog. Even today, they are highly prized possessions, as without these little dogs, natives lose their prestige as hunters.
AVERAGE LIFESPAN
Basenjis can often live up to 14 years of age, but with the proper care and nutrition will usually live to 16 years Continue Reading…
