Dogs and cats are two species of animals that are very different from each other. They have different habits and ways of communicating. It is not without reason that the saying “live like a dog with a cat”, that is, arguing with each other constantly. Nevertheless, it is possible to lead to a situation in which the dog and the cat live in harmony with each other. In some cases, a deep friendship may even develop between them. While you can’t make animals like each other, you can at least try to get them to tolerate each other and not hurt each other.
It is worth remembering that every dog and every cat is different. Each pet has a different experience, character and may behave differently in a given environment. Therefore, there is no one good way to get your dog used to your cat. Methods of working with pets must always be selected individually. However, there are a few things that can be done and a few mistakes that can be avoided to ensure a successful introduction to your pets.
Biggest mistake
The biggest mistake you can make when introducing your dog to a cat is to let both pets loose in the hope that they will get along somehow. Unfortunately, doing so is usually a recipe for disaster. A frightened cat may attack the dog or run away from it. In turn, a sudden movement of a cat can awaken the dog’s hunting instinct and provoke it to chase or even try to catch the cat with its teeth. We should do everything we can to avoid these types of scenarios. Ultimately, it is our job to keep both pets safe and teach them to coexist peacefully.
Proper socialization
Proper socialization of both animals is very helpful in building a proper relationship between a dog and a cat. During the socialization period, both puppies and kittens learn which animals are safe and which are potentially dangerous. If the dog during the puppy period was with cats, did not reprimand them and was rewarded for calm behavior with them, there is a good chance that it will accept the cat’s roommate without any problems. Similarly, a cat that has become accustomed to the presence of dogs at an early age and feels safe with them, will more readily accept a dog in its new home.
However, I must emphasize that for the proper socialization of both species, it is not enough for both dogs and cats to be in the breeding farm. The most important thing is the quality of their interaction with each other. If a breeder allowed dogs to chase cats and allow cats to attack dogs, it’s hard to talk about proper socialization.
If you would like to have a dog and a cat at home, the easiest solution may be to take a young puppy and a kitten home at the same time. Caring for two young pets of different species can be difficult. However, this solution gives us the best chance that the animals will get along with each other.
In what order to bring pets into the house
As a rule, it is much easier to bring a cat into a house where a dog already lives than the other way around. Cats get very used to their environment and don’t usually like change. Even a small change of furniture can throw a cat off balance, let alone the appearance of another animal in the house. Especially if we have an old cat at home who needs peace and quiet, introducing a frisky puppy can be especially difficult.
Select pets in terms of temperaments
When deciding on another pet at home, we should consider whether the temperament of the pet we want to adopt will be consistent with the temperaments of animals that are already in our home. As you know, temperament cannot be changed by training or upbringing. Therefore, it is worth considering it when choosing your next pet to avoid unnecessary chaos.
Learning to resign
If you already have a dog in the house and want to introduce a cat to it, you need to work on giving up. In this post, I show you step by step how to teach your dog to “leave”. When a cat shows up at home, the dog’s greatest temptation is to chase it. Therefore, simply practicing giving up eating is not enough. I also recommend practicing giving up the thrown ball or the stick. Your dog’s emotions when chasing a toy are similar to chasing a cat.
We start learning very much like giving up food. We take a stick, ball or other toy in our hand, say the command “leave it” and calmly put it on the ground. As soon as the dog tries to catch the toy, lift it up. When we manage to put the toy on the ground, we praise the dog and reward. After a few successful repetitions, raise the bar and instead of laying the toy calmly on the ground, drop it. If the dog moves towards her, we block him with a leash or with the body. It is also a clear signal that this task is still too difficult for the dog. So let’s go back to the previous stage and work through it better. The next stage is throwing the toy in front of you. If the dog is unable to give up the thrown toy, there is little chance that it will give up the fleeing cat.
It’s also a good idea to exercise a calm reaction to cats during walks. You must not let your dog chase them. It is best to redirect the dog’s attention to yourself from a distance. If we have a developed “leave” command, we can use it here. If the dog still has problems with giving up cats, it is better to walk in the opposite direction or pass the cat along a large arc, than to provoke the dog to chase.
Bringing your dog or cat home
Regardless of whether we bring the cat into the house where the dog lives or vice versa, we must properly prepare both pets and our apartment. It is best to temporarily remove any items that may lead to a conflict. So we hide bowls, toys and lairs. The cat litter box is best placed in a place where the dog cannot reach. If your pooch has a problem with defending resources, it is worth solving it before the cat or other pet appears in the house.
It is also extremely important to provide your cat with at least a few safe hiding places. A tall scratching post or a booth in a place inaccessible to the dog will work well here. You can also install gates for children or special cat doors that will make it easier for him to escape if necessary. Before the introduction, it is worth taking the dog for a long walk, where he can sniff and run as much as he wants. A runaway dog will react much more calmly to a cat appearing in the house than a dog charged with energy. During the walk with the dog, you can ask family members or friends to take the cat into the empty apartment. Thanks to this, he will have time to calmly familiarize himself with the new space and new fragrances.
Stage 1 – insulation
Our priority when taming a dog to a cat should be to ensure both pets’ safety. Therefore, it is best to isolate the animals from each other in the beginning. The cat can be locked in a separate room with a place to rest, a scratching post, bowls, toys and a litter box. You may allow your dog to see the smell of a cat through the door, but do not allow the dog to hit it with its paws or bark loudly. We don’t want the cat to get stressed unnecessarily. To better control your dog’s behavior, it’s best to keep your dog on a leash at home. As soon as the pooch starts to show undesirable behavior or become overly excited by the smell of the cat, we immediately redirect his attention to ourselves or, for example, to olfactory toys. On the other hand, we catch, praise and reward all the dog’s calm behavior.
At this stage, we spend time separately with the dog and separately with the cat. Thanks to this, none of the animals feels lonely. Pets also have time to calmly familiarize themselves with their smells and associate them positively.
Our emotions are very important when introducing a dog to a cat. Animals can read them very well and adapt their behavior to them. When the dog sees that we are being nervous in the presence of the cat, he too may start to act like that. Therefore, staying calm is essential.
Stage 2 – gradual familiarization
When the dog ceases to be interested in a cat in a separate room, we can proceed to the next stage. We install a gate for children in the door to the “cat’s room” and slightly open the door. The gate for children will allow both the dog and the cat to safely learn about their appearance and movements. At this stage, we also constantly control the behavior of both the dog and the cat and strengthen their calm behavior. We do not force the cat to the dog and do not force contact. However, if he decides to approach or pass through the gate himself, we allow it. He will always be able to escape to his safe hiding place when he feels insecure.
At the same time, we do not allow the dog to chase the cat and keep it on a leash for safety. As soon as a cat appears in the field of view, we direct the dog’s attention to ourselves. You can offer him a short training in the basics of obedience or simple olfactory games. We want to show the dog that when a cat shows up, nice things happen, but you can’t chase him. At the same time, the cat learns that it can feel safe with the dog, because its attention is focused on the person, not on him.
When something goes wrong
If, during the entire process, you happen to have the dog chase after the cat or the cat suddenly attacks the dog, don’t panic. Also, don’t punish the pets if something goes wrong. Remember to remain calm. We want the dog or cat to be associated with the dog or cat as positively as possible. In the event of a sudden attack or chase, simply isolate the animals again, give them more time to get acquainted. After some time, when both the dog and the cat behave calmly in their presence, you can gradually open the door from the “cat’s room” more and more, until finally you can also remove the gate for children.
Even if the relationship between the dog and the cat is perfect, it is worth ensuring that each pet has its own, safe place to rest. I also recommend placing the cat’s bowl and litter box in places inaccessible to the dog.
How long can it take to get your dog and cat accustomed to it
There are cases when both the dog and the cat get on well with each other almost from day one. However, it is better to prepare for a scenario in which each stage of getting your pets accustomed to each other will take several days or even several weeks. There are also cases of animals so badly matched to each other that their peaceful coexistence will never be possible. Therefore, you should have a “plan B” prepared for such an eventuality and consider whether we are able to isolate the animals from each other for the rest of their lives, or it is better to look for another, safe home for one of them.
I am very curious about your experiences in introducing your dogs to cats. Let me know in the comment how this process looked like for you and how long it took. Or maybe you are just getting ready to bring your next pet home?
The choice of pet food is critical to their health. The wrong purchase can, at best, cost us an upset stomach, and at worst, the emergence of an allergy that may cause allergies, which will require specialist treatment. Before you buy food for your dog or cat, it is worth getting acquainted with the composition and choosing only those products that guarantee very good quality.
Why is proper nutrition so important for our pets?
We must remember that the nutrition of our pet depends 100% on us. Our pet will not go hunting alone and will not get food that will satisfy its needs. We are responsible for choosing the right food and it is good if it was of the best quality. When visiting stores such as Lugers.pl, you can clearly see that the food for our pets differs in composition, price and preparation method. When deciding on a specific product, make sure that it is as natural as possible and based on valuable products. The better nourished our pet is, the less likely it is to suffer from serious illness and health problems in old age. It is worth remembering about it whenever we want to buy cheap food from the market.
Where to buy the best food for dogs and cats?
Many of us prefer to shop in local stores, but very often they do not provide favorable prices. If you want to buy good food at a low price, it is worth using the offer of the online store Lugers.plthat offers a very large selection of wet and dry foods for dogs, cats, mice and other pets. It guarantees very favorable prices and instant shipping to the address provided. By deciding to make such purchases, we can be sure that our dog will receive food tailored to his preferences and requirements. It will be tasty and will not expose him to allergies. All because the store makes sure that the food sold is of the highest quality.
Shopping in online stores is becoming more and more popular because they allow access to a very wide range of products. Contrary to local shops, they offer a huge selection of food types that are suitable for healthy as well as sick animals. If our dog or cat is struggling with health problems, then the purchase of veterinary food may be the only way to improve his quality of life and help him get rid of problems. Remember that online stores such as Lugers.pl are a guarantee of safe and fast purchases that will be delivered to our home very quickly.
In the 19th century, Frederick Wilhelm Hohenzollern, the German emperor, issued a decree limiting the possibility of having a Weimaraner. From then on, the owner of a dog of this breed could only be a person of noble origin, documented for four generations. So a pedigree dog could only be in the hands of… a pedigree human. Today it is an obvious anachronism, and the Weimaraner is a popular and liked breed, especially by hunters.
For more advice and information, check out the purebred dog articles here.
Weimaraner (Weimaraner) – the origin and description of the breed
Historical overview of the breed
There are many hypotheses about the origin of the Weimaraner. The only established fact is that in the early nineteenth century the dog appeared at the princely court of Weimar. It was slightly different than modern Weimaraners, it was mainly used as a tracker. Only when these dogs, as “purebred” dogs ceased to be “reserved” only for hunters and foresters, began breeding focused on hunting versatility. This took place in the mid-nineteenth century in central Germany, mainly around Weimar and Thuringia.
Breeders began to associate tracking dogs (Leithund) with birds for birds (Hühnerhund), and the resulting offspring became the “base” for subsequent generations. At the end of the 19th century, the breeding books of the Weimaraner were established and pure breed breeding began, without adding blood from other breeds, focusing only on the utility and exterior values of subsequent generations born in the existing genetic pool. That is why the Weimaraner is considered to be the oldest of all German breeds.
Meanwhile, at the beginning of the 20th century, long-haired puppies began to appear in breeding farms. Since long hair is recessive (giving way) to short hair, its disclosure is always the result of the offspring meeting in one pair of genes, one from both the mother and father, who carry the long hair gene. Initially, they were single puppies, but over time, when they began to enter the breeding, a population of the Long-haired Weimaraner was formed and now it is a separate breed. The Weimaraner in both types of hair is a typical hunting dog, subject to work duty.
Weimaraner – exterior description
The Weimaraner is a fairly large dog with a well-proportioned build. The brain is quite wide, wider in a dog than in a female. Marked frontal furrow, occipital tumor poorly or moderately developed, zygomatic bones well developed. Very slight stop. Nose large, protruding above the lower jaw, flesh color changing to gray. Long, strong muzzle, strong jaws. Nasal bridge straight or slightly convex, not sunken. The dentition is complete, scissor bite. The eyes of an adult dog are light or dark amber, blue in puppies (a characteristic feature of the breed), with intelligent eyes, round, slightly oblique. The ears are long, wide, reaching the corner of the lips, set high and narrow, wavy, rounded at the ends. The tail is set slightly below the topline, strong and well covered with hair. Lowered when at rest, carried horizontally or higher in action. It may be copied in working dogs, but only in countries where it is permitted.
The Shorthaired Weimaraner has a very dense and strong coat, longer and denser than most shorthaired pointers. There is either no or very little undercoat. The long-haired Weimaraner also has a soft and long undercoat without or a negligible amount of undercoat – 3 – 5 cm on the sides, slightly longer under the neck, on the chest and on the abdomen. A distinct feather on the tail, feathers and pants shortening downwards on the back side of the limbs. Short hair on the head and ears, velvety on the ears, long and wavy at the base of the ears, straight on the rest of the body, with a slight undulation allowed.
The color of both types of hair is different shades of silver-gray, the head and ears are a bit lighter. Basically no white, only slight white markings are allowed on the chest and toes. A darker stripe along the back is allowed. The most appreciated color is uniform all over the body, with only a slightly lighter head and ears.
Height at the withers – Males: 59-70 cm. Females: 57-65 cm. Weight – Males: approx. 30-40 kg. Females: approx. 25-35 kg.
Disqualifying defects:
No gender stigma
Height at the withers above 2 cm from the reference point
Weak or heavy build
No proportion
Baldness, bald ears or stomach
Color other than gray, shades of yellow or brown, tan, shades of blue
Pointed muzzle, concave bridge of nose
Entropion, ectropion, other eyelid defects
Dental gaps other than 2 x P1 and / or 2 x M3
Aggressive or shy.
Weimaraner – disposition, care, health, nutrition, hunting
The nature, care and health of the Weimaraner
Weimaraner is a breed of typical hunting dogs. His hunting passion is very strongly developed. It is a dog that is cut in relation to the game (although it never attacks), but it shows unlimited devotion to the owner and loves him above all, of course also other household members. She does not like loneliness, but loves to rest on the couch with her guardian. He shows friendly interest in his guests, shows a friendly disposition towards strangers, although he can also be distrustful. He gets along with other domestic animals, for example, he will not treat a cat as an “exercise toy”, but if he is to live with him under one roof, it is better to socialize it as early as possible, while at home, puppy breeders should have contact with other animals.
Weimaraner, the so-called Weimaraner and its breeding, i.e. the requirements and care step by step
Activity, high demand for movement and love of water are typical breed features of the Weimaraner. Therefore, even living in the countryside or in a house with a garden, you need to provide him with at least two-hour daily exercise. This movement should be of an exertional nature (running) and it is worth taking the dog outside the city, e.g. to a meadow or lake, where he will be able to swim. Note: in the forest, it is strictly forbidden to let the dog loose in situations other than hunting. The Weimaraner is a good companion for a bicycle trip, after proper fitness preparation it can easily cover even 10 kilometers at a trot.
Weimaraner care is not complicated, only daily combing is needed during the molting period. Outside of this period, a soft brush or rubber glove every 2-3 days is sufficient. However, systematic ear control is very important. The Weimaraner has drooping ears and loves to swim. Moisture and heat favor the development of fungal and bacterial infections. After each trip, the ears should be cleaned with a cotton pad soaked in an antibacterial ear wash. From time to time, the condition of the eyes is checked, claws that are too long are trimmed (if the dog does not rub them himself), and the teeth should be cleaned of plaque to prevent the build-up of limescale. A Weimaraner bath is not necessary if it is not produced in the waste. Or maybe you will also be interested this article on the blue pointer?
Nutrition, hunting work, breeding issues
As a dog that likes an active lifestyle, the Weimaraner should receive valuable food. Dry food is best if it contains about 30 percent. proteins (you must read the description on the label!). The price of good food is not low, but you should not save on proper feeding of your dog.
Some owners prefer natural nutrition. It is perfectly correct as long as the meals contain all the necessary nutrients and are properly supplemented. Remember, however, that food is given to the dog at least 2 hours before exercise (portion with a majority of carbohydrates) and at least one hour after exercise (portion with a majority of meat). Exercising on a full stomach and eating immediately after fatigue promote a stomach twist, which is directly life-threatening.
The Weimaraner, like all pointers, is a dog that primarily displays and retrieves birds, from land and water. Nevertheless, there are hunters who arrange Weimar pointers as tracking dogs, and these dogs also gather positive opinions here. But by nature, water and the field are the element of this race. The obligatory work of every pointer is, among other things, hitting the field and swimming after shooting. Weimaraners cope well in such conditions.
Only dogs and female dogs over 18 months of age, having passed shows with appropriate marks or a breeding inspection at the parent branch of the Kennel Club in Poland are allowed for breeding. There are different opinions about the point of going to shows, since you can pass a breeding qualification at once. However, it is worth taking into account that puppies from titled parents find buyers faster. In general, their price is also higher.
There are many ways to spend your free time with your dog. You can play football with it, swim, throw apport. If we like to ride a bike, we can also engage our four-legged friend to accompany us on bicycle trips. Are all dogs suitable for this and how to ride a bike with a dog?
If you’re looking for more advice and information, check out the articles about walks here.
Cycling with a dog – a healthy way to spend your free time
Walking a bike with a dog – rules
There are no regulations in the Polish road traffic law regulating driving a dog next to a bicycle. In any case, it is not forbidden and many dog owners take advantage of the possibility of combining a bicycle trip with the amount of exercise that is so important for a pet. However, since there are no regulations, it is not established whether the dog must have the leash fastened when it runs next to the bicycle.
In any case, full responsibility for traffic safety rests with the owner of the dog, so when taking him on a bicycle, it is worth following logic and common sense, and on country and field roads – also local government regulations. First of all, the dog should have a leash, but the leash must never be tied to the handlebars of the bicycle. This is very dangerous as the dog may suddenly spot another dog, cat, bird etc. and jerk to start chasing. Doing so may cause you to lose control of the bike and tip over, which could result in serious injury to both the rider and the dog.
It is worth getting a special lanyard and a bicycle holder, and if necessary, keep the leash in your hand. Correctly, the dog is always running on the right side next to the bicycle. In this way, it is protected against vehicles overtaking the bike on the left side. If local regulations permit the dog to be released loose on side roads, this can be done as long as the dog is obedient and returns when called. However, it should be remembered that it is always forbidden to release the dog without a leash in the forest.
Dog breeds suitable for running alongside a bicycle
Large and medium-sized breeds are widely believed to be the best for cycling. Perhaps this opinion has become entrenched because most amateurs of cycling with a dog have dogs of such breeds. However, there are no restrictions on this matter. Every dog owner can try how to ride a dog on a bike.
In general, a dog must meet several conditions to run alongside a bicycle. First of all, it must be completely healthy and functional. Cycling is definitely not for puppies and very young dogs, as well as senior dogs and overweight pets. Brachycephalic dogs (with a flattened, short muzzle) are also not suitable for running. Small breed dogs can play the “cycling” sport, but they must not be taken for longer distances due to the relatively quick fatigue.
It is best to take a dog of the following breeds for a bicycle walk:
Husky– widely known and popular, accustomed to long runs, a sled dog with high physical endurance
Pointers– this group also includes setters, all types of bracco and pointers. They are all hunting dogs, intended for displaying game, mainly birds, and adapted to persistent running
Alaskan malamute – a large, majestic dog, who loves to run and swim, extremely durable
Border collie – a shepherd dog considered to be the most intelligent breed in the world. He is a born “hard worker” and sportsman. While he is most fond of mental training activity, he looks just as good running alongside the owner’s bike
German Shepherd – the most versatile of the herding and guard races. He has a great need for exercise and is very durable, perfect for jogging and cycling tours
Jack Russell terrier – a small hunting dog, full of temperament, extremely mobile, is a real volcano of energy and can be a perfect companion for cycling trips, although rather not on marathon distances. Also check this article for tips on how to teach your dog to walk on a loose leash.
How to ride a bike with a dog – science, precautions
How to teach a dog to run next to a bike
The most important thing is to check your dog’s reaction to the bike. If he does not pay attention to passing cyclists and does not try to chase him – this is the beginning of success. It starts with walking the bike out and summoning the dog. If he comes and sits down freely, reward him with a treat. After a few such exercises, you can go for the first walk. The dog should be in a harness (not a collar!) And on a leash, and should not eat before the walk.
Cycling with a dog step by step, i.e. a walk with a bike and a dog without secrets
We choose the straight path for our first walk. First we go on foot, leading the bike with the dog tied to the handle with a leash. If the dog is walking calmly, get on the bike and ride for no longer than 5 minutes. We closely observe the dog and control the speed of travel – it should be such that the dog runs at a free trot. If he is galloping next to the bike, it is imperative to slow down and think about how to calm down the dog – it will probably be best to take a break, give him a drink, stroke him and let him rest.
Gradually, every day we raise the degree of difficulty and extend the distance and time. It is enough if the walk will be longer by 2-3 minutes each day. Only after a few weeks of training will you be able to go on a longer trip. During the walk, you need to take breaks and let the dog drink water, which you take in a bottle or water bottle with a bowl. We do not continue driving immediately after the dog drank, you have to wait a dozen or so minutes. It’s safe because of his stomach.
What you need to know besides how to ride a bike with your dog
We start learning to run with a bike at the age when the dog’s skeleton is already formed. Keep in mind that the larger the breed, the more prone to hip dysplasia it is. Excessive effort at an age when the osteoarticular system is not yet fully formed may lead to its deformation. It is not true that an adult dog cannot learn to run with a bike. For the same reason, you should not force even a dog experienced in running next to a bicycle, and dose the effort safely.
If we plan a bike trip, the dog should not be fed directly in front of it. If we leave very early in the morning, better not eat anything. However, if the start is scheduled at noon, the dog should be given a meal with increased energy (carbohydrate) value early in the morning. After returning and waiting at least an hour, we feed the dog a meal containing mainly protein to regenerate the muscles.
As a general rule, do not feed your dog right before and immediately after exercise. You need to be especially careful with large breeds that have a tendency to twist their stomachs. This ailment can affect a quadruped after exercise with a full stomach and is a direct threat to life – immediate surgery is absolutely necessary to avoid necrosis of the digestive system organs.
Gray Elkhund, also known as the Norwegian elk dog (Norwegian. elk – moose), is one of the oldest Scandinavian breeds. This dog was used for hunting and guarding by the Vikings. Archaeologists have found dog skeletons with high probability that they belonged to the Elkhunds, and their age is estimated at around 4,000-5,000 BC.
Probably the elkhunds evolved from the associations of the first domesticated dogs, brought by the Vikings from numerous expeditions, with Scandinavian wolves. Over the course of many centuries, several breeds and varieties of Nordic Spitz developed. However, it was not until the 19th century that planned breeding began. The modern Elkhund has been “improved” by mating old Scandinavian Spitz with newer European breeds, but has retained a strong hunting instinct. He can track and preach animals perfectly.
The elkhund gray was first presented at the Oslo exhibition in 1877, and in 1901 the British Kennel Club recognized it as a separate breed. At that time, the first breed standard was also created. The modern FCI standard has been in force since 1999 under the number 242. Currently, the Gray Elkhund is considered by the Norwegians as a national breed and is the most popular family dog in Norway. To this day, it is used for hunting there, and in the Scandinavian countries this breed is under the obligation to work. The first elkhunds came to Poland at the end of the 1980s, but they did not gain popularity and are bred only for amateurs.
Historical overview of the breed Elkhund gray
Elkhund gray
Gray Elkhund – exterior description
The Elkhund Gray is a dog with a compact build and square body. The head is typical of a Spitz – wedge-shaped, wide between the ears. The length of the skull and the craniofacial skull are identical. Skull slightly arched, with a moderately marked foot. Black nose, tapering muzzle – seen both from above and from the side. Scissor bite, complete dentition. Dark brown, non-bulging eyes. The ears are set high, erect, pointed and small, very mobile. The tail is strong, set high and carried, curled tightly over the back, and must not be carried on either side. In an adult dog, the tip of the tail must not be straight.
The elkhund’s robe is two-layered. The outer coat is of medium length, straight, profuse and dense, the longest on the neck, thighs, tail and back of the legs. On the front of the limbs and head, the hair is short and smooth. The undercoat is dense and soft. Color – as the name suggests – gray in various shades. Black tops of top hair. So it is not a uniform color, as in some other breeds (e.g. Weimaraner). On the chest, abdomen, limbs, underside of the tail and on the waist from the withers to the elbow (the so-called harness, a similar one has a Swedish vallhund), about 5 cm wide – lighter hair, without black tips. Dark mask, delimited by a line running from the eye to the base of the ears. Light gray undercoat.
Elkhund is a medium-sized dog. The ideal height at the withers for dogs is 52 cm, for female dogs – 49 cm. The body weight of the dog is 25 kg, female dogs – 22 kg. Norwegian elk dogs live an average of 12 – 13 years, although older animals can also be found.
Disqualifying defects:
Aggression, timidity
Undershot or overshot
Blue or yellow eyes
Non-standing ears
Residual tail, in some other Spitz (e.g. Swedish Vallhund) acceptable
The dewclaws of the hind legs
Color other than gray
Height at the withers below 3 cm or more than 4 cm from the reference point.
Serious defects that affect the show rating are:
Round skull, too short and / or pointed muzzle
Pincer bite, missing teeth
Light eyes, ears large and too wide
Tail not tightly curled, carried to the side
Dark undercoat, too short or too long
Color giving the appearance of dirty
White tip of the tail, white markings on the chest – acceptable in some other breeds of dogs (e.g. Weimaraner).
Character and disposition of a gray elkhund
The Norwegian elk dog is very social, has a strong herd instinct, which is why it feels bad to be separated from humans. It shows patience with children and tolerates other pets well. However, males may not tolerate the presence of other males. He is gentle and sympathetic towards people, although he is extremely vigilant, so he is perfect for a home guardian. When something disturbing happens nearby, the Gray Elkhund immediately starts barking loudly and intensely, alerting the household. On the other hand, being at home, he is very calm (not to say phlegmatic) and likes to rest alone, without excessive cares. Nevertheless, it needs a daily dose of exercise in the fresh air, regardless of the weather, because it is protected against cold and moisture by thick, double-layered hair.
In Scandinavia, the gray elkhund is a typical working hunting dog. His job is to track down, trap and hold the game until the hunter arrives. It is a very difficult task, requiring both a lot of courage and careful behavior of the dog. It also needs to be agile enough to be able to jump back, so it is very important to feed the hunting elkhund properly to avoid becoming overweight.
The Elkhund Gray is a very independent and independent dog, who likes working in the company of a human. He is intelligent and amenable to stacking, but can be quite stubborn, so he needs a patient, persistent and consistent guide. Socialization as early as possible is also important – puppies should be subjected to it while they are still in the breeding farm with their mother. Starting socialization too late can make training difficult or even impossible.
Dogs of this breed feel best in rural areas, where they can freely go out to a fenced property. Experts believe that elkhund does not feel well in an apartment in a block of flats, as do many other dog breeds that used to be typically working dogs and are now mainly family dogs, such as the schoolboy. Note: elkhund, who cannot bear boredom, left to himself, will find a job – “demolition” in the apartment. If you’re looking for more advice, check out too articles about spitzers collected here.
Elkhund gray – care, health, nutrition, breeding
Gray elkhund care and health
Elkhund gray is not difficult to care for. However, you need to take care of its thick hair. The dog should be combed regularly with a brush and comb with varying (adjustable) tooth spacing. Elkhund – unfortunately – sheds a lot, especially after winter and autumn. You can then see clumps of undercoat coming out. Although it is not a long-haired breed, such as the schoolboy, usually brushing twice a week is sufficient, while in the period of spring and autumn moulting, the dog needs to be brushed daily. Otherwise, the soft undercoat may become tangled, blocking the airflow to the skin and risking local inflammation. Especially pay attention to the fine hair behind the ears, in the armpits and in the groin, where it is softest and where the most tangles form. These cannot be combed out, it is necessary to carefully cut them out. Before the brushing procedure, you can spray the dog’s hair with a special antistatic preparation that prevents unpleasant “sparking”.
An elkhund bath is not necessary as long as it is regularly combed. Of course, the dog should be bathed if it “gets perfumed” in the impurities. Bath water should be lukewarm, and for washing, a special shampoo for dogs is used, which does not affect the pH of the skin. After bathing, you must dry the dog, and before drying, apply a conditioner that restores light lubrication of the skin and prevents static electricity. Skincare cosmetics are available at good pet stores.
Ears, teeth and claws should also be checked regularly. The ears are cleaned with a cotton pad soaked in the canine ear cleanser. Scaling can be prevented by giving your dog a dental treat to chew on, but if the dog does not cut the claws himself, it is necessary to periodically shorten the claws with a guillotine. “Sleepyheads” from the corners of the eyes are removed with a cotton swab moistened with warm water.
The Elkhund Gray is a healthy, strong and resistant dog. Sometimes, however, some individuals suffer from PRA (progressive retinal atrophy) or cataracts and such animals must not be allowed to breed because they are genetic diseases. Renal and thyroid diseases, as well as hip dysplasia, are sporadic. The Breed Dog Breeding Regulations do not oblige the breeder to screen dogs for dysplasia, but every kennel caring for a good reputation performs such tests.
Like every dog, Gray Elkhund requires regular deworming and preventive vaccinations. The first deworming is carried out by the breeder when the puppies are about 3 weeks old, and the first vaccination is usually at 8 weeks of age. Then the dog is dewormed and vaccinated according to a calendar set by a veterinarian.
Nutrition and breeding issues
As a primitive breed, the Elkhund likes fresh, raw meat the best. So it can be successfully fed BARF. Animal protein should be the staple food, especially for working dogs. With natural nutrition, you can also occasionally serve raw egg, cottage cheese, offal and fish as well as fish fats, as well as vegetables and some fruit. Note: natural meals must be supplemented with vitamin and calcium preparations.
Elkhund can also receive dry and wet ready feed. The price of good food is not low, but it is worth buying from reputable producers who care about the right composition and content of nutrients. When buying ready-made food for an elkhund, you choose the one for medium-sized dogs, and for working dogs – the food for dogs with an active lifestyle, which is more energetic.
You feed your dog twice a day – morning and evening. Regardless of the type of food, the dog should have access to a bowl of water around the clock.
A dog or female dog with passed show marks or breeding inspection may be allowed for breeding. For both sexes, the lower breeding limit is 18 months, although the optimal age for a bitch is two years. A female dog may be mated once in a calendar year, and the last time in the year when she turns 8 years old. There is no age limit or mating limit for a stud dog. The price of a puppy is relatively high, because it is a very rare breed in Poland and the purchase is often associated with going abroad. On average, a puppy costs about 1000 euro plus costs of transport, possibly vaccinations and pedigree – it depends on the contract with the breeder.
Sometimes we have no choice but to become our pet. A cat or a dog suddenly appear in our lives and become friends. But if we want to make a rational and thoughtful choice of a pet, we should think carefully before doing so. While many of us believe that the cat is less absorbing than the dog, it is a harmful myth that should be debunked once and for all. Like many other myths.
If you’re looking for more advice and information, also check out the Cat questions articles here.
Cat versus dog – species differences
Character differences
The most important difference between a cat and a dog is that a dog is a herd animal, domesticated between 200,000 and 300,000. years ago, and the cat is a solitary animal, domesticated about 10,000. years ago. These apparently “dry” historical facts have a colossal impact on the behavior of dogs and cats towards humans and each other.
The dog, due to earlier domestication, is much better adapted to life with humans than a cat. In addition, his herd nature helps him find his place in the home hierarchy, even if we have more than one dog.
A cat is by nature a solitary animal that does not need a second cat for its happiness. In the case of incorrect “overestimation”, it can manifest serious behavioral problems, because it is not in its nature to create a hierarchy or a complicated social structure.
Behavioral differences
A cat has diametrically opposed needs than a dog. This is due to the so-called ethogram, i.e. a set of all behaviors characteristic of a given species. Of course, every living organism needs food and drink, but the similarities stop there. A cat has many unique needs that a dog does not have, and before adopting a cat, you should consider whether we have the time, resources, and capabilities to meet these needs.
The dog needs regular walks, this goes without saying. The cat, on the other hand, needs regular, everyday hunting fun while maintaining the hunting chain. Without this play, the cat’s quality of life runs out of head and neck and is often the cause of behavioral disorders such as attacking household members.
The dog is focused on cooperation with humans – for thousands of years it has been bred for this. The cat as a species has never been used for a specific job, nor has it been genetically selected for that purpose. The natural hunting behavior of a cat simply matched the human needs, therefore the human influence on the cat as a species is much smaller.
This is of great importance in the process of intercourse with the cat. It will not be focused on obeying orders or gaining our approval. For this reason, the relationship with the cat can be difficult for us. We expect animals to obey, and cats rarely obey. At most, they can compromise with us. Also check this article with tips on whether a cat or a dog, i.e. which quadruped is right for you.
Cat versus dog – living costs
Necessary accessories
When it comes to basic maintenance costs in the form of food or supplementation, they are similar. Typical canned food for dogs and cats does not differ significantly in price. This does not mean that dogs and cats are eating the same thing. You can afford more non-meat additives in your dog’s diet than in a cat’s diet, which is a ruthless carnivore and derives all its nutrients from meat.
However, a cat requires slightly more accessories than a dog. In addition to the litter box, litter and bowls, also a decent scratching post, a few bedding and a few high shelves on the walls. And of course the toys. Taking all this into account, a cat layette will definitely be more expensive than a dog’s layette (leash, collar, bed, bowls, toys).
Additionally, cats do not like sharing, so if we are going to have more cats, we will also have to purchase separate accessories for them. Cats do not live in herds and the use of, for example, one litter box is unnatural for them. Like sharing one toy or bowl, which can generate unnecessary tension.
Veterinary care
Basic veterinary care for dogs and cats is not very different from each other. With the proviso that a cat that does not go out has a lower risk of infection with parasites or of getting injured than a dog that goes out every day. Therefore, while a cat can be dewormed rarely, only after faecal examination, the dog is dewormed regularly. It is similar with vaccinations – non-leaving animals do not require the same vaccinations as outgoing animals.
Regular health check-ups are needed for both species, although these are even more important for cats than for dogs. Cats instinctively hide illness and malaise, often until it is too late for effective treatment.
A dog with a cat during a happy run and differences in the behavior and upbringing of dogs and cats
Behavioral problems
Perhaps the biggest difference between dogs and cats is when behavioral problems arise. Cats are animals that are extremely susceptible to stress and exhibit anxiety reactions more often than the average dog. Unlike dogs, cats do not take comfort from a human handler, much less as dogs. In other words – if a cat has a stress problem, there is a good chance it will require the help of a behaviorist.
In turn, the behavioral problems of a dog can end in criminal liability for us if, for example, our pet bites someone in a park. In the case of cats, this risk is easily reduced, in the case of dogs that have to go out, the risk is considerable.
Cat versus dog – relationship with humans
Home therapist
Scientific research proves that having a pet has a positive effect on our health. Children who grow up at home with a dog or cat suffer less from allergies. Petting a purring cat lowers stress levels and blood pressure. Regular walks with the dog help to maintain good condition and social relationships.
So there is no doubt that both cats and dogs are wonderful life companions. However, each of them in their own way. Cats are much more independent and less focused on the satisfaction of the handler, so they will not endure too long stroking, carrying on their hands or other caresses that they do not want to do. The average dog will be more understanding in these cases.
Define your needs
If you do not have the opportunity to go for a walk with your dog on a regular basis or you have a small apartment, then the cat will actually be a better companion, but with the fact that you will not expect dog behavior from him. If, on the other hand, you do not like dogs, but you dream of going for walks with your pet, you can find a cat that will like to go out. Just remember that a walk with a cat is different from a walk with a dog. They will follow the cat, the dog follows the leg.
If you travel frequently or work long hours, then it is not advisable to adopt any animal. The dog will miss you and the cat will be bored. It is not true that cats do not need human contact. They need. And they certainly need hunting fun that only humans can provide. Taking two cats at once does not release us from the obligation to devote our time to them.
Traveling with a dog is usually easier than traveling with a cat. The dog tolerates changes in the environment well, the cat is quite the opposite. Therefore, if you take a cat, you need to reckon with the need to find a visiting sitter when you decide to go on vacation. Fortunately, there are more and more companies providing professional petsitter services on the market.
Properly conducted puppy training develops appropriate habits and behaviors. This is where a frequently asked question arises. How to punish a dog for bad behavior? Can disciplining or hitting a dog bring real benefits? How to discipline disobedience and what to avoid?
For more advice and information, check out the training articles here.
Puppy Misbehavior or Adult Dog Disobedience – How to Never Scold a Dog?
Before answering the question of how to punish a dog, we must first discuss human behavior that never produces the desired effect. Unfortunately, some people still use negative reinforcement training. This is discipline, catching the dog by the neck, and even slapping the dog. Such discipline for disobedience has nothing to do with training, and the results are usually completely counterproductive.
Punishment as a training method was introduced by Konrad Most, who believed that dogs needed to be dominated. This domination was to be achieved by punishing, grabbing the neck and forcing obedience. The negative reinforcement method even included hitting a dog and rebuking disobedience constantly. The training techniques introduced by Most were quite brutal and required absolute submission from the dogs. As a result, there was biting, fearfulness, aggression and a lack of trust in people. Fortunately, the theory of domination popularized after the Second World War has already been completely disproved.
In the twenty-first century, we already know that slapping a dog, grabbing the neck or verbal scolding are not the most effective training methods. Zoopsychologists emphasize that hitting a dog, grabbing the neck and brutal punishment can trigger anxiety aggression in a dog. It is already known that the animal-human relationship should be based on mutual trust, not fear. By causing anxiety aggression, it is difficult to talk about the attachment of a pet to its owner. As a result, biting, loss of trust in people, and a host of other undesirable behaviors can occur. Therefore, we must emphasize that slapping a dog, scolding a dog or catching an adult dog by the neck are not an appropriate training method. In their place, it is worth focusing on positive reinforcement. According to zoopsychologists, it is very important to properly motivate your puppy and build a lasting bond with the handler. We can punish disobedience and bad behavior in a completely different way, completely avoiding aggression towards a pet.
Positive puppy training according to zoopsychologists
Loud barking, persistent biting of slippers by a puppy or inappropriate behavior during walks do not have to be associated with penalties. According to psychologists, positive reinforcement turns out to be a much more effective method of training.
The positive reinforcement method is based on the introduction of a reward system. These can be your favorite snacks, loud verbal praise, stroking or starting to play. It’s easiest to develop positive habits by rewarding your puppy and adult dog. Moreover, treated in a gentle manner and regularly awarded, the dog will repay you with its loyalty and great trust.
The method of positive reinforcement requires full self-control from the owner. The dog’s body language is also important, as it can tell us a lot. Teaching a young puppy to clean would be a good example. Body language (spinning in a circle, sniffing, barking at the door) can be a signal that your pet needs to go outside. At this point, we go out with the dog, and if he takes care of his needs outside, we reward immediately. As a result, we will obtain the desired behavior, and the puppy will be more willing to communicate his needs and defecate outside instead of at home.
How to punish a dog? Effective punishment that ignores aggression
How to punish a dog for barking, bad behavior or even for being bitten? Most of us imagine that punishment involves aggression, spanking or shouting. As we mentioned at the very beginning, punishing a puppy by slapping or screaming does not give satisfactory results. So how to punish a dog for bad behavior? How to be successful and discipline so as not to spoil your relationship with your pet?
One of the answers to the question of how to punish a dog for bad behavior is to introduce verbal reprimands. Every dog should know the corrective command. It could be “not allowed”, “fe” or a different word the dog can understand. The purpose of entering a corrective command is to stop unwanted behavior (e.g. barking at another dog while walking, biting trouser legs). A corrective command must be issued during the duration of the misbehavior. It is no use yelling at a dog for a few hours after breaking a vase or peeing on a rug.
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How to punish the dog to understand and punish the dog for destroying items in the apartment
The second way to effectively discipline your dog is to deprive him of the expected benefit. When you own a small puppy, you often notice various forcing behaviors. Slipper bite, loud barking or a squeal to play. Unfortunately, we cannot always provide the dog with our full attention. Ignoring the forcing is no benefit, which in turn will result in extinguishing the habit. We do not have to spank the dog to make it notice that the behavior is not bringing him the expected benefits. Also check see this article for tips on how to teach your dog to jump at people.
How do I react to a dog’s bite? Body language and contact with a zoopsychologist
Punishment in the form of taking the expected reward or verbal reprimand not always effective in urgent situations. How do I react to my pet’s bite? First, we need to be aware of what a dog’s body language is. Second, see what is causing aggression in your pet.
Body language such as snarling and snapping teeth in the air are the first clear warning signs. Ignoring them can cause further problems. Dogs generally do not bite for no reason, but only when they feel there is no other option. There is no clear answer to the question of how to punish a dog for aggression and biting the owner. It all depends on the circumstances. We certainly cannot try to dominate the pet, as it may lead to further aggravation of the conflict.
After the bite, there is usually a phase of calming the dog down. We can use this moment to separate the pet. Then it is worthwhile to calmly analyze the causes of the event. Perhaps the bite was related to a sense of threat or a defense of resources. The best solution turns out to be contact with a zoopsychologist. A good specialist will be able to determine the cause of the problem and will suggest how to implement consistent training tailored to individual needs.
If you want more advice from a zoopsychologist or find out if a dog is an eternal child, check out the rest of the articles on this site. You will learn from them how to train and care for a puppy, as well as learn about the basic requirements of pets.
Choosing a dog is quite a challenge that should be carefully considered. A young puppy can grow up to be a large family protector or a small companion pet. This is where the question arises, big or small dog? What kind of pet should you choose for your home or apartment living? It turns out that both solutions bring a number of benefits and sometimes difficulties.
If you’re looking for more advice and information, check out the dog questions articles here as well.
Big or small dog? Maintenance costs
Each large and small breed has its own individual predispositions and requirements. This is one of the first things to consider when making your choice. In many cases, we also consider the cost of living.
Both the small dog living in the apartment and the large pet in the yard require regular veterinary visits. The cost of vaccinations, consultations, and tests is generally lower for small-sized dogs. The large mass of the dog also means the need to purchase larger, more durable toys and a spacious bed for the home. The larger the dog accessories, the higher the purchase price.
Our companion’s food turns out to be another regular expense. A large breed requires much more food. All this means that a small dog living in an apartment weighing a few kilograms will be cheaper to maintain than a large Caucasian Shepherd in the yard.
Big or small dog in the apartment? Requirements for activity and living space
Both a small puppy and an adult dog do not require a lot of space. They will be great in an apartment, as long as we provide them with the right dose of activity. Contrary to appearances, even a small area in an apartment is not an obstacle if the owner of the dog is an active person who has more free time.
Both large and small dogs can run alone in the yard, but it is not sufficient for their proper functioning. Every dog or female dog requires regular walks of adequate intensity. This applies to any dog, regardless of size or breed. During walks, the dog has the opportunity to meet new companions, sniff, explore new places and joyfully explore new areas.
A great need for activity (e.g. in breeds such as the Siberian husky) must be properly utilized. Therefore, before choosing a puppy, it is worth thinking about his needs. This is one of the key issues in the responsible choice of a pet.
Perfect for sport or defense
An adult, large dog or a female dog is generally respected by their stature. It’s hard to say about small Yorkies or miniature Chihuahuas. A large adult dog is generally more balanced. Properly trained, he will not provoke conflicts during walks. The smaller breed is also more spontaneous and often also a loud disposition. Of course, this is not a rule, and the behavior of a pet will largely depend on socialization with the environment, as well as on thoughtful training.
Both a large dog and a small dog can be your best friend, but you need to choose their size and breed according to your lifestyle
A large breed of dog will be perfect for many of the sports of obedience. Larger dogs can also be selected for specific functions (e.g. guard dog, guide dog, etc.). A small dog or female dog will be perfect for an apartment or a house where less physically active people live. Or maybe he will also be interested this article for tips on how to teach your dog to walk on a leash.
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Big or small dog? Length of life
An adult dog or female dog may survive for several or several years. Life expectancy is one of the considerations we often consider when choosing a pet size. Unfortunately, a large breed of dog generally comes with a shorter life. Molossian dogs live up to 10 years on average, and the larger the breed, the shorter the average life expectancy.
A small and miniature breed is also a long life. Some miniature breeds live up to 18 years, which is not possible for dogs with a very large body weight. Therefore, when you want to choose a home companion for many years, it is worth taking into account the conditions of the breed and its size.
We also note that some breeds have certain genetic loads that significantly affect life expectancy. A good example is the cavalier king charles spaniel. It is a small, extremely cute breed that is perfect for both an apartment and a home. Unfortunately, cavaliers often suffer from mitral regurgitation. It is a severe heart disease, which means that adult dogs have a life expectancy of 9 to 14 years.
An adult dog from a shelter or a puppy from a kennel?
Big or small dog? Each option has certain advantages and difficulties that should be carefully considered. The last issue is the source of the purchase of the pet. We can choose a puppy from the kennel as well as a charming dog from the shelter. Both solutions have their supporters. A purebred dog or female dog will be the perfect choice for people who expect specific predispositions from the dog (e.g. an ideal candidate for sports). A young, well-bred puppy will be properly socialized, which will facilitate further training. Choosing a specific breed will also allow us to determine how big your pet will be in adulthood.
The second solution is a dog from a shelter. We can find both puppies and adult dogs in Polish shelters. The person who decides to choose a dog from the shelter gives the pet a chance for a joyful, adventurous life. Unfortunately, an adult dog or shelter female dog can have a bad experience, which in turn can lead to some behavioral problems. Therefore, choosing a dog from a shelter will be a good solution for people who are aware of possible difficulties and want to take care of the dog with empathy. Even a very fearful shelter dog can show his full potential if he trusts the new owner. At the same time, he will repay you with great love and affection.
A shy dog from a shelter requires very gentle treatment. Allow him time to get used to the new situation and environment. Such a pet should not be left alone in the yard. A much better solution would be to bring him home and provide all his basic necessities. A fearful dog from a shelter will not be the type of pet that immediately demands petting and stroking. In general, the opposite is true. The dog should be kept calm, not petted or forced into contact. We can persuade him to come with a delicacy or a gentle tone. A shy dog from a shelter should also have its own corner. In many cases, a kennel cage works great, which, when properly introduced, gives the pet a full sense of security and shelter.
If you want more information about pets, check out our other articles. We will suggest, among other things, how to tame a dog with a bath, we will discuss the most important requirements of dogs and we will suggest how to properly care for a barking dog. In the remaining articles, you will also learn whether a dog can live in the yard, and you will learn about the most important requirements that a fearful dog from a shelter has.
Perro de presa mallorquin, also known as a Great Dane from Majorca, a fighting dog from Majorca or ca de bou, is a Spanish breed, originating from the Balearic archipelago, which is a region of Spain, specifically the island of Majorca. In Poland, relatively few are on the list of aggressive breeds. Is it right? Let’s get to know this Spanish molos better.
If you’re looking for more advice and information, check out the Great Dane articles as well.
Perro de presa mallorquin origin, appearance, disposition
Dog from Majorca – a historical outline
Perro de presa mallorquin has its origins in antiquity, when shipping in the Mediterranean basin began to develop from east to west. Among the goods exchanged between the inhabitants of different regions of the area, there were also domestic animals, including, of course, dogs. At that time, they were used to guard the goods against robbers and pirates.
The most popular were mastiffs from the Iberian Peninsula, which were used there to fight bulls and dogs and to help hunters. After the conquest of the Balearic Islands by James I the Conqueror in 1230, the dogs were transported there. In the 17th century, the archipelago, including Majorca, was taken over by the British Crown and new inhabitants from the British Isles began to settle on the islands. They brought their own fighting and guard dogs, including English Bulldogs, which began to be uncontrolledly associated with Mastiffs.
In the 18th century, dog fights with bulls became more popular and became a favorite pastime for settlers. English bulldog hybrids with local dogs were used for them, and soon the intentional breeding of such hybrids began for the purposes of fights, because dogs were dying en masse during them. The new crossword was called ca de bou – a bull dog, and the population valued them as much as bullfighters. Therefore, after their death in a fight with bulls, these dogs were bred with honors due to people, and they were also given expensive tombstones.
Fortunately, in the 19th century, these barbaric pastimes were banned by law in Spain. However, this resulted in a lack of demand for ca de bou and the breed began to decline. She was in danger of extinction, although in 1923 the first dog was registered in the Spanish pedigree book, and the breed’s debut at the show took place in Barcelona in 1928. After a year, cao de bou was shown again at this show, and then it was lost. It was not until the 1950s that the breed was reconstructed, which was officially recognized by the FCI in 1965. In Poland, the first individuals were found in 1994 (breeding Osanna).
Perro de presa mallorquin – description of the appearance
The Majorca Dog is a typical Molossian with an elongated body, medium height and massive build. It is characterized by a strong sexual dimorphism, expressed in the appearance of the head. It has a much larger circumference in dogs than in bitches. The skull of a Majorcan Great Dane is large and wide, and its circumference is greater than its height at the withers. When you look at the dog from the front, you cannot see the back. The stop is clearly defined, the superciliary arches form a distinct frontal furrow. Jaws strong, teeth large, white, full dentition. A feature of the breed is undershot bite – a remnant of the English bulldog. It cannot be larger than 1 cm. Teeth with a closed mouth completely invisible. The length of the conical muzzle is 1/3 the length of the skull. Broad nose, black.
Eyes large, oval, slightly slanting, set deep and wide, desirable as dark as possible for a given color. The ears are small, rose petal-shaped, set high, the inside of the ear is visible. The tail is set low, thick at the base, tapering towards the end. Lowered in repose, raised in action to the spine line and slightly curved.
Coat: short and hard hair (such as a Weimaraner). Brindle, fawn and black colors, in this order valued the most. Brindle and fawn colors should be as dark as possible. On the front feet, chest and muzzle, white markings are allowed, which together cannot cover more than 30%. body surface. A black mask is allowed for brindle and fawn colors.
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Height at the withers and weight: Males 55 – 58 cm, 35 – 38 kg. Female 52 – 55 cm, 30 – 34 kg.
Disqualifying defects:
Aggression, timidity
Overshot bite
Clear (as has, for example, the aforementioned weimaraner) or yellow irises of the eyes
Duplicated ears or tail
More than 30 percent. white markings, white markings in places other than those specified in the pattern (paws, muzzle, chest)
Patches of a different color.
A medium sized dog should have the following dimensions:
Weight – 36 kg
The height of the rump – 58 cm
Height at the withers – 56 cm
Chest circumference – 78 cm
Head circumference – 59.5 cm
Body length from the back of the head to the tail – 73 cm
The length of the head from the back of the head to the nose – 22 cm
The length of the muzzle – 8 cm.
If you are looking for more information, Also check out this article on the Great Great Dane.
Dog from Mallorca – character, upbringing, maintenance, breeding
The disposition and character of the perro de presa mallorquin
The Dog from Majorca is a calm and balanced dog by nature, but at the same time very brave. He has a free attitude towards people, he is faithful and devoted to his family. A perfect watchman, self-confident, he can scare an intruder with piercing eyesight. He treats children and other pets in a caring manner. Quiet, not barking on a daily basis, but barking at strangers in the absence of the hosts. He is always ready to defend his family.
Even though he looks phlegmatic, the Majorca Great Dane needs physical activity and one longer walk a day. The remaining walks may be shorter. Early socialization is very important. Puppies that have good experiences with other animals behave in a calm manner towards foreign dogs in adulthood. If not skilfully led, he can get into a fight if provoked, and then the consequences can be dire for his opponent. Therefore, it is not suitable as the first dog for people who have no experience in laying, especially a dog with such physical strength.
For this reason, it is also important to buy perro de presa mallorquin puppies from proven kennels, registered in the Polish Kennel Club. The Purebred Dog Breeding Regulations stipulate that only individuals who have passed mental tests may be allowed to breed. As this breed is on the list of aggressive breeds, before starting the planned breeding, you should check with the appropriate municipal office about the required permits in order to avoid unpleasant situations.
Nutrition, care, health
Perro de presa mallorquin should be fed a good producer’s food, intended for large (not giant) breeds. This food is balanced and contains all the necessary nutrients, vitamins and minerals. It can also receive natural raw (BARF) or cooked food. Such, however, must be supplemented with vitamins and minerals, especially in puppyhood and adolescence, when the skeleton and teeth are formed. The dog must have access to the water bowl at all times.
Cao de bou care is not complicated. It is enough to brush the dog systematically, wipe the hair with a chamois leather, and bathe only when necessary – for example, when our pet appears in the dirt. Dogs’ claws and teeth are occasionally trimmed and when needed, although this breed is unlikely to develop tartar.
It is a basically healthy breed. However, before being allowed to breed, regardless of meeting all the conditions of the Breeding Regulations of Purebred Dogs (show marks or breeding inspection, mental tests), good breeders screen their dogs for hip dysplasia, even though there is no formal requirement to do so. This disease is highly heritable and it is always better to examine the breeding bitch and the stud dog. In this respect, the opinions of breeders are unambiguous.
The price of a puppy is several thousand zlotys. You should beware of buying puppies from pseudo-kennels, the price of which is three times lower than that of the union ones, but where the parent pair was selected at random, without testing and research, and often without deworming and basic vaccinations. Hence the later opinions about the aggressiveness of dogs of this breed.
The Brabantian, or the Brabant Griffon, is one of the three Belgian Griffon breeds. In the taxonomy of FCI breeds, it is the only situation where individuals of three different breeds can be freely crossed with each other, and the born puppies are included in each of them – depending on the features of their exterior. Brabantczyk is the rarest of griffons. Let’s get to know him better.
If you’re looking for more tips and information, check out the Griffons articles here too.
Griffons – breed overview, appearance, character
A brief description of the griffon breeds
All griffons are small, mobile dogs descended from small wirehaired dogs called smousje. These dogs were kept in farmyards to exterminate rats in stables, coach houses and rooms where supplies were stored. Only in the nineteenth century, planned breeding began in order to improve the exterior of these dogs and obtain their purebred numbers.
Initially, the black smousje was associated with a red cavalier king charles spaniel (ruby), and then with a pug. As a result, three types were obtained, which were subsequently registered as separate breeds. Those are:
Brussels griffon – with a rough coat with an undercoat (like a wirehaired pointer) not silky or woolly, which is a serious drawback. The outer coat is longer on the head (beard and mustache) and longest above the eyes (eyebrows). Longer hair is strong and tough. A long coat all over the body spoils the figure is undesirable, display griffons are trimmed. Red or rusty color (also similar to Wirehaired Vizsla), a small amount of black on the head is allowed
Belgian griffon – the structure of the coat is the same as that of the Brussels coat, but the breed differs in color. In the Belgian griffon it is uniformly black or black and tan, the tanning must be uniform and saturated, intense. It is visible on the feet up to the wrists, on the hind legs to the ankles, on the inside of the legs, on the chest, above the eyes (“candles”), on the cheeks, on the underside of the tail and around the anus. Black top coat may be slightly rust-sifted, however pure black is preferred for both black and black and tan dogs.
Brabant Griffon (Brabantian) – the only short-haired breed among griffons, with a flat, shiny coat and a hair length of no more than 2 cm. All griffon colors are allowed, while reds and rusts have a darker mask (such as perro de presa mallorquin). Due to the short hair, the Brabantian’s muzzle appears slightly longer than that of the Brussels and Belgian griffons, but this is an illusion.
In all three breeds, the length of the muzzle does not exceed 1.5 cm, and the strongly recessed bridge of the nose forms one plane with the forehead and chin. Overshot is a feature typical of all griffons, the upper and lower incisors are straight, the lower jaw is wide and prominent, the mouth is always tightly closed, the teeth and tongue are invisible. The wide-set eyes are large and round, but never bulging, brown, the darker the better. Ears small, set high and wide. Uncopped, worn half-folded forward. attention: From 2025, dogs with copied ears and tails cannot be judged at shows under the auspices of the FCI. Griffons weigh from 3.5 to 6 kg, measure 24 – 26 cm at the withers. Dogs are slightly larger than female dogs.
Disqualifying defects for all griffons:
Aggression, timidity
Nose other than black
Tongue visible when mouth closed
The curve of the lower jaw
Jaw protruding in front of the mandible
Any color other than that specified in the pattern
White patches (a small white spot on the forechest is acceptable but undesirable).
Male animals should have both fully developed testicles descended into the scrotum.
Brabantczyk – characteristics, disposition
Brabantczyk is a typical companion dog. He is very attached to the caregiver, he is neither fearful nor aggressive. He likes children, towards whom he is patient and friendly, affectionate and gentle, despite his considerable temperament. It is a small dog, but very obedient and easy to arrange (such as a collie), so it is suitable as the first dog for people with no experience.
Brabantczyk is a very good choice for living in a block of flats because it is not barking. Gets along well with other pets in the home, including cats and other dogs. He needs the company of a human all the time, but is not intrusive. When traveling, he is polite and calm.
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Brabant dog, an interesting, little-known breed of dog with a nice disposition, his breeding and requirements
Sometimes a large dog (for example a collie or a perro de presa mallorquin) can arouse anxiety in a Brabantian, so it is important that puppies are well socialized as early as possible, at the breeder’s home. The Brabantian has a very curious disposition, so when walking where you can meet other animals, it is better to keep him on a leash and let him run out in a fenced area.
Brabantczyk – requirements, care
Conditions for a Brabant boy, care, nutrition, health
Unlike Brussels and Belgian griffons, the care of a Brabant fish is simple, because it has a short hair. It is enough to brush systematically every few days and wiping with a chamois leather. However, it is worth checking your ears and cleaning them regularly, as well as taking care of the teeth, because you like to deposit stone on them. If necessary, the Brabantczyk’s claws should be shortened, if he does not rub them himself. In addition, it is necessary to wipe the doggy with a moistened cotton swab over the furrow above the nose. If food debris gets in it, they can deteriorate and cause inflammation.
Nutrition of the Brabantian is important because it is a brachycephalic breed and the appropriate bowl should be selected for him to ensure the comfort of eating. Such bowls are available in good pet, stationary and online stores. However, the food should be specially intended for small breed dogs with fine granules. The Brabant Griffon can also receive home-made food, but then you need to remember about appropriate supplementation with calcium and vitamin preparations. The dog should have access to a bowl of water around the clock.
The Brabant dog is a very healthy, long-lived breed and a properly kept dog can live up to 17 years. He should be systematically vaccinated against all infectious diseases, of course obligatorily against rabies, and a week before the vaccination date, he should be dewormed. Show dogs should be dewormed more often. Also check this article on the Brabant Griffon.
Brabantczyk – breeding, puppies
When we start breeding a Brabant fish, we can even start with a different griffon, because – as we already know – three breeds of griffons can be associated with each other. However, it should be taken into account that these are large-headed breeds and very often births are performed by caesarean section. Unfortunately, the Polish Kennel Club does not allow griffon bitches to be mated earlier than after the age of 18 months, but it is worth doing it as early as possible.
A Brabantian female dog can give birth to puppies of both her own breed and Griffon puppies – Belgian and Brussels dogs in one litter. It depends on the matching of her and her father’s genes. Before the planned mating, the female dog must obtain breeding qualifications. They can now be obtained in two ways:
Three times participation in shows, including at least one of international or club rank in any class, aged over 15 months and obtaining three minimum very good marks from at least two different judges. Participation in the exhibition costs from 110 to 150 PLN (depending on the rank of the exhibition), sometimes you have to go quite far to see it
Passing a breeding inspection with a positive result, carried out in the home branch of the Polish Kennel Club (or with the consent of the Board of the Polish Kennel Club – in another) by an international cynological judge, after reporting on a special form and paying the payment to the account of the branch where the inspection takes place or at the cash desk of this branch. The breeding inspection costs PLN 580.
The same requirements apply to a stud dog which, however, unlike a bitch, must receive excellent marks.
The price of a Brabantian puppy depends on many factors and can range from a few to several thousand zlotys, although such a high price occurs only when buying a puppy from import with delivery costs. Currently, Russia is a tycoon in griffon breeding. In Poland, griffons are rare, they appear sporadically at exhibitions.
