Dogs are intelligent and noble creatures that respond to their owners with boundless devotion. But, in addition to their love for humans, they are also amazingly beautiful animals. The black representatives of this species have a special, mystical beauty. It’s not for nothing that the mythical dog Cerberus, who guards the entrance to the underworld among the ancient Greeks, is coal-colored, and Arthur Conan Doyle made the dark mastiff the dog of the Baskervilles. A black dog on a night road is a bad sign for truck drivers and the hero of children's horror stories. What kind of dark representatives of the dog world are they really? Let's start with the biggest ones.
Black Terrier
It has the typical appearance of a terrier, but is a very large and strong dog. A service dog that requires proper training. Despite its impressive dimensions, the animal is not aggressive and very docile. It is distinguished by its natural intelligence, devotion to its owner and excellent health.
The fur is hard, thick, and woven into “braids.” Like all terriers, “Stalin’s dog” (as they are also called) has long mustaches, eyebrows and a beard. The coat of this animal requires proper and regular care - bathing once every two weeks, constant combing with a comb and periodic haircuts, which the pet must be accustomed to from the age of 6 months.
Corgi
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Corgis come in two breeds, the Pembroke Welsh and the Cardigan, and despite their shorter stature, both were originally bred as herding dogs. This heritage means that the Corgi is an energetic baby who needs a lot of exercise and stimulation. Their size, temperament and appetite for play also make the Welsh Corgi a super pet for families with children. They are also very intelligent and stubborn, so early and consistent training is required. Both breeds have a lush double coat and come in a variety of colors, including a beautiful tri-color combination of red, sable, black, white and fawn.
- Exercise: Walk for at least one hour a day.
- Grooming: Corgis shed very often with their undercoat, so regular grooming is required.
- Life expectancy: 12-13 years.
- Ideal for: families with children.
Newfoundland
Another black giant of the dog world. The breed was bred to assist in search and rescue missions, but the diver can also be an excellent guard dog. The body of the animal is dense, the head is large. He is highly trainable and extremely loyal to his owner. The Newfoundland coat has its own characteristics - a black, unusually thick, oily double undercoat, which allows the animal to feel comfortable in the water.
Representatives of this breed are by nature lumps who prefer to rest for hours. Therefore, it is very important to give them exercise periodically to avoid problems with excess weight and health.
Cane Corso
A descendant of ancient Roman fighting dogs, it almost disappeared into other breeds, but at the end of the 20th century it received a second life as an independent breed. The “Corsican Dog” is an excellent shepherd and guard, and also a wonderful nanny for children.
Despite its brutal appearance, it is very gentle and devoted to its owners, and is never the first to attack a stranger. The coat is black, short, and does not protect from the cold. But minimal care is required: it is enough to comb the fur with a hard glove twice a year, during shedding. Despite its rather impressive dimensions, it looks very graceful.
How to choose a black German Shepherd puppy
The final coat color is formed in the puppy by the age of eight months. At this moment, all the spots and dots will appear. Purebred black Germans are initially charcoal in color. That is, over time the puppy will not darken. In addition to external data, take a closer look at the baby’s behavior:
- When a stranger appears in the enclosure, the mother should be wary, but not take any action.
- The most inquisitive and fearless ones in the litter should be noted.
- Check your child’s reaction speed and understanding of the command: after the command “there is” who will react faster.
- Cowardly and insecure puppies are a breed defect.
- Assess the dog visually (are the eyes and ears clean, are there any signs of diarrhea under the tail, the density of the coat).
The original and rare color gives the German Shepherd an air of mystery and enigma. The Kennel Club is divided into 3 camps: 1 – considers the black shepherd a wild evil; 2 – they claim that such representatives turned out to be a defect; 3 – they are generally trying to prove that this is a separate breed.
German dog
Aristocrat of the dog world. Great Danes are one of the tallest dog breeds at the withers. A wonderful security guard and bodyguard, full of dignity. It never barks in vain, and does not show aggression towards strangers without the owner’s command.
Like the Cane Corso, the Great Dane is a short-haired dog that does not tolerate cold well. The dog's coat is shiny and very dense. It is united with the “Corsican dog” by a common ancestor – the Tibetan mastiff. Despite its impressive appearance, this dog is not aggressive; it is almost invisible in the house, which is why it received the nickname “inconspicuous dog.”
Royal Poodle
These incredibly smart and beautiful creatures. The body is elegant, but at the same time with developed and elastic muscles. Height varies from 45 to 60 cm. The sternum is voluminous, regular oval in shape. The tail is straight and thin.
The head is in harmony with the whole body. The stop line is clearly defined, the nose is straight, tapering to the tip. The lips are dense and do not form careless folds.
The rounded ears hang just below the lip line, but due to the voluminous fur they appear much longer.
Coat types: curly or corded. Solid color: white, gray, apricot, brown or black.
Rottweiler
According to the standard, this breed is not completely black; there are red areas on the chest and face of the animal. The Rottweiler's build is stocky and muscular. The breed was originally bred to transport small loads, but now this dog serves as a guard. He is very jealous of his territory and is wary of strangers.
Read TOP 20 kindest dogs in the world
The coat is very thick and short, requiring no special care. Due to their thick undercoat, they tolerate cold well. Dogs of this breed must be trained, and this should be done by professionals. An untrained Rottweiler can pose a threat even to its owners.
Field Spaniel
These dogs have an elegant, harmoniously built body. The build is dry with a proud bearing. Height - 45-50 cm.
The skull is domed with a pronounced occiput and an almost invisible stop. The muzzle is elongated; jowls form in the corners of the mouth when the lips close. The eyes are set deep, and at their level the drooping ears begin, which visually appear larger due to the wavy, flowing coat.
The coat is thick and wavy, colored black, brown, golden brown or bicolor.
Giant Schnauzer
Not a particularly popular breed for private ownership, but a very good service dog, serving in the service of the police and search engines. He has an independent, stubborn character and immediately uses any weakness on the part of the owner to his advantage.
The breed is characterized by a black color, the wool is very hard, similar to wire. The undercoat is thick and dense, on the muzzle the hair is longer, looking like a lush mustache. The coarse, faded coat of Giant Schnauzers must be plucked periodically, and it is recommended to begin this procedure at 6 months of the pet’s life. A distinctive feature of the breed is the complete absence of the “dog” smell.
Genetics of color
As everyone knows from school, the carriers of heredity are chromosomes, each of which has a certain set of genes. They are designated by letters, the characteristic genetic features are indicated in the formula, where the name of the genes is indicated in detail. The number of chromosomes is constant for each species, and each chromosome has a pair. In total, a dog has 39 paired chromosomes. There are two types of genes:
For example, to show the dominance of a black color gene over brown, B > b is indicated. Gene A determines the uniform distribution of color pigment throughout the hair. Gene B is responsible for the formation of black color.
The genetic formula of an all-black puppy appears to be AB. Genes C and D determine the intensity of color. According to this formula, a black dog is ABCD. Gene E is responsible for the distribution of black color throughout the body. The solid black color looks like EEBB. To obtain a black color, the presence of B and E is necessary. The G gene determines age-related changes in coat color, g - indicates the absence of such changes.
The M gene is responsible for spotting, m - indicates uniform pigmentation. The S series genes determine hair depigmentation and white spotting. T – indicates a dotted color, t – the absence of specks. The R gene determines such a feature as roaning, and r - normal color. The W gene determines the dominance of white color, w - indicates the usual color.
An example of the genetic formula of a black dog looks like this: ABCDEgmStrw, where:
Labrador
The black color of Labradors is one of several acceptable according to the standard. A very popular breed because of its friendliness. Not very good guards, but natural hunters. Thanks to their dense undercoat and thick coat, they do not get wet in the water, and these dogs love to swim. They get along well in families and are very responsible nannies for children.
The Labrador's coat requires minimal care - daily brushing during shedding twice a year, and once a week the rest of the time. These dogs need to be bathed no more than 5-6 times a year. The Labrador Retriever's body requires constant physical activity; without it, dogs quickly gain excess weight.
Short-legged fold breeds
Short-legged, fold-eared breeds are especially popular because they have an extraordinary appearance. If you are looking for a small dog, the following breeds are worth considering:
- English bulldog.
- Basset Hound.
- Pug.
- Pekingese.
- Norfolk Terrier.
- Jack Russell Terrier.
- Dachshund (mini, rabbit, standard).
- Shih Tzu.
- Japanese Chin.
Most breeds are companions. All dogs, except burrow hunters, need special care and a proper rhythm of life.
Groenendael
One of the varieties of the Belgian Shepherd family. Its main purpose is the role of a shepherd, guardian of the flock. But it has also established itself as a good guard and service dog. The shepherd's coat is long, dull black, as if covered with dust. This color is assigned to her according to the standard, so the animal should be bathed no more than 2 times a year. But the fur needs to be combed regularly - every day during shedding, and once a week the rest of the time.
Groenendael has all the character traits inherent in shepherd dogs. A calm and peaceful dog, in a moment of danger, turns into a fearless creature, ready to defend its owner or territory at the cost of its own life.
“Edible” nicknames
For boys:
- Bailey
- Guinness
- Bean
- Borodin
- El
- Side
- Bosco
- Espresso
- Brandy
- Caffeine
- Thein
- Rorschach
- Roshen
- Coconut
- loaf
- Stout
- Hershey
- Raisin
- Porter
- Poppy
- Pepper;
- Pepper
- Mocha
- Pepper;
- Snickers;
- Sugar
- Cheese
- Zukor
- Mousse
- Mars
- Twix;
- Chocolate;
- Blackberry
We recommend watching: 333+ nicknames for pit bulls Who's hungry and who's here, as luck would have it, Twix?
For girls:
- Aphra
- Bounty
- Brownie
- Bun
- Vanilla
- Godiva
- Pea
- Diva
- Suede
- Marshmallow
- Highlight
- Highlight
- Ikrinka
- The Incas
- Cola
- Cola
- Kona
- Krispy
- Liquorice
- Meringue
- Milka
- Mleczka
- Oxy
- Olive
- Pepsi
- Radish
- Baking
- Sour cream
- Soufflé
- Choco
- Java
English Setter Pea. Miracle pea...
Hovawart
Not a particularly popular breed in Russia, but very common in Germany. It is one of the oldest German guard dogs. At the withers it is not inferior to such giants as the black terrier. The Hovawart's coat is black, long and wavy; a feature of the breed is its long fluffy tail. Hair care for dogs of this breed must be constant, as the dog sheds all year round.
It will selflessly defend its territory and owner. In general, it is a peaceful dog, but it is better not to leave children alone with it. The peculiarity of the breed is late puberty. Only by the age of three do dogs of this breed give up their puppy playfulness and become sedate dogs.
Choosing a Kai puppy
Kai puppies are born in one color. Their brindleness appears as they grow older. In addition, due to the presence of a recessive gene, puppies are sometimes born with a non-standard cream or white color. A photo of one of these dogs can be seen in the gallery below.
Buying kai outside of Japan will be very problematic. And in Japan there are not many nurseries that professionally breed them. Buying a puppy from a professional breeder allows you to get a dog with a pure pedigree, a pleasant character, socialized towards its fellow breeders and with guarantees of health.
Price
The average cost of a Kai puppy in Japan is 10,000-15,000 yen, which is approximately equal to 85,000 rubles. It will cost about the same, if not more, to complete the paperwork and deliver the dog to Russia or the CIS countries.
Schipperke
Another black shepherd, only from Belgium. True, it can be called a shepherd dog only by its habits and official duties. In fact, she looks more like a Spitz, both in appearance and in size. The average weight of such a black “devil” is 4-6 kg.
Read Top 20 smartest dogs - breeds with a high level of intelligence
Breed standards allow only black color of the animal's two-layer coat. Due to the fact that the hair on the Schipperke's neck is slightly longer, a mane is formed that looks like a lion's. The smoky black coat of this dog breed needs to be brushed several times a week, and every day during shedding. It is very suitable for those owners who would like to have a shepherd, but the square meters do not allow this.
Bloodhound
What other lop-eared dog breeds are there? The name of the next one is Bloodhound. This breed is one of the oldest today. Representatives are large in size. Their body is strong, muscular, and their skin is quite thin. The muzzle is long, the nose and lips are large. The ears are quite long and low set. The eyes are dark, deep-set. The most common colors: fawn, red, red-brown, black and red tan.
Representatives of this breed need long daily walks. It is advisable to keep such dogs not in an apartment, but in a house with a large but fenced yard. The character of such dogs is quite soft. They are smart and active. This dog barks infrequently, but loudly.
How to care for a dog? Periodically remove dead fibers with a brush. You should clean your ears regularly to prevent dust and dirt from accumulating. This is a must-do for every bloodhound owner, as these dogs are prone to ear infections.
Doberman
The most popular breed of black guard dogs in cinema. Very active, harmoniously built, lean animals. Like Rottweilers, a feature of the color is red tan markings in some places. The coat is thick, short and harsh, with no undercoat. Therefore, during the cold season, the Doberman needs warm housing.
A very smart dog with a stable psyche, reacting calmly to other animals. She is devoted to her owners, and in a moment of danger she shows determination and fearlessness. It shows its guard properties better if it works in tandem with another Doberman.
Italian bracque
These are strong animals with an athletic build. Height at the withers is 65-68 cm. The muscular back flows into the same strong, moderately wide neck. The head is narrow, elongated with a smooth stop line, which smoothly turns into a nose with a voluminous hump. The skull is convex in shape with a pronounced occipital protuberance and brow ridges. The upper lip is drooping. The ears are set low on soft cartilage. They descend below the zygomatic arch.
The coat is short and hard. With proper care it shines. The color is white with amber, fawn or chestnut spots on the head, ears, along the back and at the base of the tail. The mask on the face is predominantly symmetrical. Black color is not acceptable.
Barbet
Hunting breed. It got its name from the French “barbe” - beard. The beard, like the long bangs, is a feature of this cute animal that looks like a large soft toy. One of the main colors of the breed is black, the coat is long and coarse, curled into rings. Thanks to such clothes, he is not afraid of cold and dampness. Barbets are also excellent swimmers.
For owners whose barbets live in an apartment, this breed is simply a godsend. The fact is that these dogs do not shed at all. But they need to be combed once every few days, otherwise the hair will mat and the animal will take on an unkempt appearance.
The dog has no ears
Are they not standing on their own? Let's deliver!.
You can determine whether your pet's ears are developing correctly by the following signs: they should become heavy and increase in size. Puppies' ears often fall back.
The ears can independently take the correct position quite late, for example, only by eight months or even later, by a year. But if you are worried about the situation, it is best to show the puppy to specialists.
Dogs' ears do not stand up for many reasons : because the animal has suffered from an illness, is weakened, or lacks minerals and vitamins.
At the age when puppies change their baby teeth, the ears may not stand up immediately or may fall back after some time. Veterinarians will help determine the cause and help you choose the right vitamin and mineral complexes.
Ears that are not erect have no effect on the performance of official functions or on the personality of your animal. So it is the owner’s choice whether to take action or accept his dog for who he is.
Moody
A very rare breed originally from Hungary. Considered a shepherd dog, it is very similar to its German and Belgian counterparts, only much smaller. It differs from other shepherd dogs in its coat - the Mudi has wavy hair from birth. Coat care is required to a minimum; this breed does not form mats. Despite their small size, Mudi are very brave and courageous dogs that will defend their owner and territory to the end.
This breed is not suitable for kennel keeping; such a shepherd dog, with its natural activity, needs space for games and physical activity. Only one owner is considered authority.
Afghan Hound
Despite all its elegance and grace, the Afghan Hound is distinguished by its endurance and strong physique. The height of an adult female varies from 60 to 68 cm, and males grow up to 72 cm. The main “tools for running are: straight legs and a capacious chest, which ensures the smooth functioning of the heart and voluminous lungs. The straight tail is located quite low. The elongated muzzle and wide-set eyes provide maximum visibility of the terrain when running. The ears are drooping and elongated.
The pride of the breed is the silky straight hair that covers the entire body except the head - here it is short. Any color is allowed, but white spots are unacceptable.
Read Sled dogs - 20 popular breeds around the world
Bullets
Another shepherd dog comes from Hungary. Today this breed is used as a hunting and guard dog. This is perhaps the funniest looking black dog - its long hair is woven into braids, similar to Rastafarian dreadlocks. From a distance, it looks like a large floor brush with a shiny black nose sticking out of it. Such dense wool allows the animal to endure frosty winters. Oddly enough, bullet braids do not require special care. There is no need to comb them, just go through them occasionally so that the fur does not stick together into large tangles. Such a dog needs an energetic owner who can walk with it for a long time.
TOP 22 breeds with black wool
Let's consider the most popular representatives of the Wolf, who will become a reliable, loyal friend for the owner and family.
Affenpinscher
Another name for the breed is the “monkey pinscher,” which is so named because of its characteristic cute face and restless behavior, constantly on the move. Reminds you of yourself with a ringing bark. The limbs are thin, the body is light, the head is small - this is what allows him to easily perform tricks and learned movements. He is great with children, but may have problems with other pets. The character trait of this type of pinscher is to constantly occupy a leading position. Black, coarse wool requires special grooming and trimming. Otherwise, the dog will look like a little devil.
Dutch Tulphond
In appearance, this is a small dog with a funny exterior. The tail is curved with a hook, the long hair is silky and pleasant to the touch. Another name for the breed is “Marquisier”. Mischievous, loves to tinker with children and drive away strangers with loud barks. Needs regular physical activity due to a tendency to obesity. The breed is suitable for those who want to have a small, compact dog that serves as a guard and helps brighten up their leisure time.
Norwegian Black Elkhound
From the order Spitz-shaped for hunting and protection. A light, hardy dog easily covers distances, jumps high, and carries out commands with ease. Wool with an undercoat that needs to be groomed during shedding. Needs strong-willed education due to aggression. Knows how to make friends, learns tricks. He adapts well to the apartment, enjoys walking and tries to be close to his owner.
Dachshund
A representative of the “Hunting” group of three main types: standard, rabbit and miniature. A squat body, widely spaced paws, a powerful tail and an elongated shape make it nimble and nimble. Dachshunds are excellent hunters with a developed instinct that reliably protect their homes. Children are treated with suspicion and do not like loud screams, noise and fuss. Actively react to extraneous sounds. He is constantly hunting and searching. Despite their size, they run fast. Short-haired dachshunds cause less trouble, but they freeze in winter. Wire-haired dogs require grooming, and long-haired dogs require combing. You will have to bathe often because he is very short. There is a tendency to obesity, constant walks are necessary.
Swedish Lapphund
A small dog with fluffy fur and a rich undercoat that is completely black. It is necessary to comb and carefully care for a decent appearance. The breed belongs to the Spitz subgroup. It is distinguished by its liveliness and nimbleness, and is prone to a friendly attitude towards pets. A ringing bark notifies of danger. Needs proper socialization for reasons of playfulness, the need to be on the move.
Schipperke
The small size (up to 33 cm at the withers) does not prevent the dog from being a brave guard and an excellent hunter. It was bred to guard ships and was loved by sailors. Black, fluffy coat and funny face, nimble and curious character. Many compare her to a fox. Wool has water-repellent properties and rarely gets dirty. During intensive shedding, it requires combing. Loves activity and training.
Scottish Terrier (Scottish Terrier)
A short, squat dog with the curious character characteristic of terriers. The hunting instinct and attachment to the owner are highly developed. Trainable. One of the negative aspects is sudden mood swings. They are naturally endowed with increased aggressiveness, loud barking, and are capable of lunging. When playing games, you need to monitor behavior and stop attempted attacks. The coat is coarse and requires the services of a specialist groomer with thinning. Particular attention is paid to the muzzle, chest, abdominal area and limbs.
Barbet
A medium-sized pet with thick, wire-haired hair. The name comes from the dog's characteristic appearance - a thick beard under the lower jaw. After each feeding, you will have to wipe and comb the fur on the upper and lower jaw. This is a friendly companion dog that requires constant care and attention. He learns easily, loves to play, and is well oriented.
Groenendael
The ancestor is the Belgian Shepherd, which is larger in size. Used as a police service working dog. Gets along with people, loves constant training, attentive attitude. When raising him, it is necessary to have skills in cynology so that the dog is obedient. The coat requires combing during the period of undercoat change. The animal tolerates any weather well and adapts to different conditions.
Moody
Originally from Hungary. A distinctive feature is the head and front legs with short, smooth hair. The rest of the body is covered with long hair and undercoat. Belongs to the “herding” group and is capable of hunting. Serves as a guard, distrustful of other pets. The peculiarity lies in the need for very early socialization, strict education, and the development of skills of unquestioning obedience.
Patterdale Terrier
A breed from the group of hunting terriers. The top layer of wool has water-repellent properties, which allows you to withstand any bad weather with precipitation. Coarse guard hairs adhere tightly to the skin. The jaws are powerful and grasping. The body is slightly elongated with a high-set tail. Around the eyes and mouth are the typical beard and eyebrows that need to be periodically tidied up. Compact in size, height up to 38 cm at the withers. Suitable for home education. Loves long walks and exercise. He studies new things with curiosity and inquisitiveness. Very active, needs constant exercise. If a terrier gets bored, he can destroy everything around him.
Portuguese water dog
A medium-sized dog that willingly follows commands on land and in water. The coat is curly, semi-long, thick with dense undercoat. I like being close to people. Differs in intelligence, obedience. He enjoys walking and making friends with other pets. He will be especially happy to perform tricks, jump for toys, and swim. This is genetically embedded in him.
Bullets
Medium sized Hungarian dog. A distinctive feature is black thick curly hair that is woven into dreadlocks. This reliably protects from the cold and saves in the heat. Outwardly, he resembles a little commander with a funny “mop” look for the floor. It has excellent security characteristics, as it comes from the “Shepherd” group. Serves the owner, is trainable, and willingly follows commands. Needs physical activity, constant exercise, and proper training.
Doberman
Originally bred for hunting. As selection progressed, the character softened. A tall and stately dog with the ability to overcome high obstacles and long distances. This is facilitated by long limbs and a particularly developed keel-shaped expanded sternum. The coat is smooth with brown markings in certain places (the lower part of the jaw transitioning to the sternum). Does not require careful care. As the puppy grows, it is necessary to prevent the development of aggressive qualities. In winter, it is necessary to monitor possible hypothermia. He is attentive to his owner, loves exercise and long walks and running.
Cane Corso
National pride of Italy. A beautiful, stately, large dog, distinguished by its smooth, glossy black coat. It looks very formidable, impressive, powerful. Serves as protection for beloved household members. The Mastiff is devoted to its family and, in case of danger, enters into battle on command. Loyal to everyone around him. With proper upbringing, the pet is obedient and peaceful, despite its threatening appearance.
Labrador
Bred for hunting game. Nowadays it is used more as a service dog and a companion. Large, up to 55 cm tall at the withers. Coat without dense undercoat, strong build, must be combed during the molting period. They have a friendly character and are suitable for raising with children. Complaisant dogs whose psyche is not difficult to control. They love to exercise and are patient with other pets. They take part in games, are constantly close to the person, and do not tolerate loneliness.
German dog
One of the largest representatives of the Wolf family with smooth fur, a high waist, long limbs, and a massive head. Calm character, gets along well with children, protects them. Can make a quick lunge to attack, pursue, catch up and knock down the enemy. The beautiful gloss on the surface of the body provides a tight-fitting cover, which creates a mesmerizing impression. A powerful, strong, properly trained dog serves as a companion for the whole family.
Newfoundland
In Russia they are called “Vodolaz”. Due to the thick long coat with a special undercoat, the pet can withstand any weather conditions. He has a highly developed intellect and loves his loved ones. Despite its impressive size and menacing appearance, its character is calm, good-natured, and balanced. Guards and protects. Works as a rescuer, can act as a shepherd for livestock, and helps carry or transport heavy objects. He accepts care with gratitude and responds with devotion.
Giant Schnauzer
Tall dogs with black semi-rigid hair, with a small undercoat and a characteristic “square muzzle”. They love family and are loyal to children. They are obedient and amenable to guard training. They play with their owner with pleasure, but it is difficult to get used to others. Rich facial expressions allow you to quickly “read” your pet’s mood. You will have to take care of the face, wipe the beard, trim the hair around the ears and eyes. They can jump high, run for a long time and play.
Rottweiler
Large breed, prone to aggression, displays of intolerance towards others. It was bred as a fighting and service dog, and was used for hunting large animals. Dense coat with a small undercoat and characteristic brown spots, massive jaws, strong physique are the distinctive features of the dog. Aggression and excessive fighting qualities are something that is genetically inherent. A muzzle is required for walking and a very patient attitude. Cynological experience for training is desirable.
Hovawart
An ancient German herding breed. Despite the large stature and stately appearance, up to 3 years of age the puppy exhibits playful behavior. They behave playfully and openly. It seems that they are always having fun and want to run around non-stop. The naturally developed ability of a watchman helps to protect the home, local area and family. He gets along well with kids and treats them like his puppies. Plays with pleasure and follows commands. Black shiny wool with water-repellent properties does not require constant grooming. It is necessary to prevent the formation of tangles, comb and wash with special products.
Black Terrier
Artificially bred by crossing the best service breeds in a Soviet nursery. Legend has it that I.V. Stalin personally participated in the decision on the appearance of Volchy representatives who met wartime requirements. The Russian Terrier combines the qualities of a guard, companion, and hunter. Requires strict education and constant training depending on the goals. Outwardly similar to the Giant Schnauzer, but larger and superior in intelligence. The body is covered with thick black hair, the signs of a terrier are noticeable (square shape, thick long hair with a small undercoat). Easy to train and follow commands. Suitable for dog sports. Needs trimming for a visually attractive exterior. Tolerates meteorological problems and does not require spending on seasonal clothing.
Portuguese water dog
No less rare breed than the Hungarian Mudi. It got its name because in the Middle Ages, Portuguese fishermen used it to drive fish into nets. One of the main colors is black. The coat is thick and hard, curly or wavy, and has a water-repellent property. The coat does not require special care; according to standards, a poodle-like haircut is allowed.
Read The rarest dog breeds - 20 rarest dogs
Dogs of this breed have a very stable psyche and a gentle character; she swims well and loves to do so, so it is not worth bathing her separately. Just like the Giant Schnauzer, the breed is devoid of the specific “dog” smell.
How to put ears on a dog
How to position the ears.
According to the standard of some breeds, the ears should stand up. This is not only an aesthetic requirement, but also a necessary condition for hygiene for many breeds. In order to meet the standards, the ears must be straight on the Boxer, East European Shepherd, Doberman, German Shepherd, Chow Chow, Laika, Yorkshire Terrier, Chihuahua and many others. In dogs of these breeds, the ears most often stand up on their own during tender puppyhood. But sometimes owners will need a whole range of special measures.
Sometimes the owner does not immediately pay attention to the existing problem: both ears are not working, or only one; It happens that the puppy’s ears do not straighten completely or are in an inclined position relative to the head.
The sooner you can start correcting this defect, the faster you can resolve the issue, by the way, without making much effort.
You must clearly understand that with your inept and illiterate actions you can bring real trouble to a defenseless puppy: very often the ears are purposefully subjected to all sorts of tests, fixed in all sorts of ways, wrapped, glued. You can lead your experiments to serious complications , which only qualified veterinarians can handle in clinics.
In breeds in which the ears are not covered with continuous thick hair, special devices can be attached without special preparation. Toy terriers, for example, will not cause you any additional trouble, but the hair around the Yorkie's ear must be carefully trimmed with scissors, both outside and below.
Ear frame.
You can buy the right type of frame for your puppy at a pet store. Dogs definitely don’t like such designs. After some time, the puppy will most likely take it off. In the case where the ear is already standing without fastening, it is not necessary to reinstall it. Re-strengthening is necessary if the ear suddenly drops again after some time. In this case, we reinstall the dog's ears. Depending on the size of the ear, this procedure may need to be repeated several times.
If you decide to seal your pet’s ears yourself, use only special medical tape and glue for this. Do not attach the patch over the entire width of the ear, because then you can only remove it along with the delicate new fur. After inevitable injuries, irritation and dermatitis will appear on the skin.
Practical tips:
- The patch should be no wider than 2 cm. Be sure to make several wide holes so that the skin can breathe.
- Very carefully remove the patch, and then treat the skin of the ear with zinc ointment. Breaks between procedures must be strictly observed.
- You should absolutely not keep the patch on for more than six days in a row. Do not lubricate the ear with alcohol solutions under any circumstances.
- In some cases, a special massage is required; only a competent veterinarian can recommend it. Otherwise, you can only worsen the situation, and so much so that it will no longer be possible to correct it.
- If you have fixed ears, they need to be examined carefully every day. If you do not do this and do not correct the difficulties that have arisen in a timely manner, you can get otitis media. And in a sick dog it doesn’t matter at all whether the ears meet the standards or not.
If you cannot solve the problem yourself, you will need advice and help from specialists.
Scottish Terrier
The Scottish Terrier is a small hunting dog with a very memorable appearance. Short legs, a large head, long hair on the sides, a beard and mustache can lull the vigilance. In fact, this is a very brave animal, showing itself equally when hunting and when protecting its owner.
The dominant color of this breed is considered to be black, with a thick undercoat and long outer coat that forms a “skirt.” The Scottish Terrier never sheds, but the old coat should be plucked at least twice a year. Due to natural curiosity and indomitable energy, which forces him to collect all the surrounding dirt, such a dog will have to be washed every day.
Siberian Husky, artistic and cute
Newinform /
The surge in popularity of huskies occurred in 2010–2011, when the films “Twilight” and “Game of Thrones” were released, where direwolves, similar to dogs of this breed, became the main characters. Today, social networks are filled with short videos on the topic “Funny Huskies”, breaking records in the number of views.
A perky, playful character is, perhaps, the main thing that makes huskies so popular among city residents. However, this breed was originally bred for hard work in the Far North: the dogs had to drag a sled with a load over long distances, as well as accompany the owner on a hunt and guard the home. For residents of Chukotka, sleighs drawn by huskies remained the only freight transport for a long time. It is difficult to imagine that the breed was on the verge of extinction in the 20th century, due to the fact that the government banned the breeding of these dogs. The Americans who were developing Alaska managed to preserve it. Here, huskies brought from our North showed miracles of stamina and endurance. Today the breed is successfully bred and is represented in three types: sledding, racing and exhibition. Sled dogs, or working dogs, still “pull their weight,” racing dogs participate in competitions, and the show breed is demonstrated at various specialized exhibitions.
Childlike spontaneity is a characteristic feature of even an adult husky. They are very artistic and musical, which is why they are loved by their owners. As scientists have found out, these dogs are close in genotype to the wolf; in appearance and behavior they have retained the characteristics of their ancestors. The same thick, thick fur, thanks to which the animal can easily sleep in the snow, an intelligent, attentive look, physical endurance and agility, and high activity. Therefore, in urban environments you need to carefully monitor them: natural curiosity, fearlessness and cunning can take your four-legged animal to the most unexpected places. Huskies need strict discipline, constant physical activity and training, otherwise their character can become simply unbearable. They are moderately friendly with other dogs; they can chase cats, perceiving them as game.
Dachshund
Another born hunter is the short-legged dachshund, with an elongated body and a wedge-shaped muzzle. They come in several colors, one of which is black. It is considered a short-haired breed, but there are representatives with long hair.
Grooming is minimal; for smooth-haired representatives of the breed, it is enough to periodically wipe them with a damp towel. Has a willful character. Despite all its comical appearance, this dog will boldly protect its owner from strangers. A very smart, inquisitive dog, ideal for both hunting and keeping at home.
Breeding lines
The incredible popularity of this extraordinary breed has led to the emergence of a large number of its subtypes in different countries, differing both in appearance and character traits.
Exhibition of West Germany (High Breeding Lines).
These dogs are closest to the standard. They are bred primarily for exhibitions.
Since the main attention during reproduction is paid to the exterior, and not to the development and preservation of working qualities, these animals have significant disadvantages - weak character and service qualities
Show dogs have a luxurious coat of predominantly saddle color with bright tan marks, but sometimes you can also find zone-colored specimens.
If we talk about ideals, then there are also opposites, for example, the dwarf German shepherd. You can read about it on our website.
The highly bred Sheepdog is good as a family member and friend, and can also be used to participate in sporting competitions. But, if you need a guard or a service dog, opt for another type of German shepherd (photos and names can be found in this article and on our website).
Working lines
These strong dogs (sometimes called service breeding), while less elegant than their show line counterparts, are much more similar to the very first representatives of the breed.
A working German Shepherd can come in a variety of coat types and colors. Zoned, black or black and tan - all colors of German shepherds are typical for these dogs; you can often find black and white colors.
The priority goal of breeding all working Europeans is service qualities.
German Shepherds of working breeding are instinctive in their behavior, they have a strong nervous system and a lot of energy. They are demanding of training and workload, aggressive, and temperamental. Working bred German Shepherd puppies are carefully selected for service and undergo multiple training courses. You can read more about German Shepherd puppies and pregnancy in our article.
Such dogs are most suitable for police, military, drug and explosive detection, they are excellent search and rescue dogs, and are also suitable for personal protection.
For a family living an active life, ready to devote attention and time to their pet, a working European will be an excellent companion, but do not expect calm, measured and phlegmatic behavior from her.
American line
American breeders focused on the appearance and speed of movement of dogs, leaving aside their working qualities. Shepherd dogs are taller, they have an elongated body with a narrow head, they have a somewhat angular shape. The saddle color (sometimes called suit) is common, but other standard colors are also found, as well as pure white.
American dogs are gentle in character, balanced and calm. They rarely show aggression and are highly trainable. However, there are such disadvantages of the breed as excessive emotionality and poor health and nervous system. These beauties will be good companions and loyal family members.
English line
In addition to the listed types, which are widespread, there are less popular varieties of German shepherds that arose as a result of mutation or selection. These are such subtypes as Panda, Czechoslovakian Wolfdog and Sarlouz Wulfhound, Kunming Shepherd and others.
Affenpinscher
The monkey pinscher (this is how the name of the breed is translated from German) is a funny decorative creature whose face really looks like the grimace of a primate. The coat of the Black Pinschers is very coarse, short on the body and long on the muzzle, which gives it a funny “disheveled” appearance. Despite its modest size, this baby carries himself with the dignity of a large and strong dog.
It is recommended to periodically pluck the fur on the sides of the animal, and trim the fur on the face with scissors. He is very jealous of his owner, trying to prevent anyone from getting into a relationship with him. Does not get along with cats and other small pets.
Porselen
These are animals with an elegant, proportional physique and strong muscles. The neck is of moderate length and width, strong and extends into a pronounced scruff and powerful shoulder girdle. The limbs are straight, and in combination with a deep chest, they allow one to achieve high speed when running. The tail is thick, whip-shaped.
The height at the withers reaches 52-56 cm in females and 55-58 in males, weighing 25-30 kg. The skull is wide, strong with a pronounced occipital protuberance. The stop is smoothed, turning into an elongated straight nose. A hump at the tip is acceptable. The jaws are powerful and strong with a scissor bite. The eyes are large and round, the iris is brown. The ears are located on a thin and rather flexible cartilage with a slight point at the tip and are located low.
The coat is white with red spots all over the body, as well as on the long, hanging ears. The hairs are short, smooth and tightly adjacent to each other.
Read: Medium-sized dogs are ideal pets for an apartment
Norwegian Black Elkhound
A typical northern husky, with a curled tail and a glossy black coat. An all-weather hunting dog that is not afraid of either rain or frost. In addition, it is used as a guard and sled dog.
The Elkhound has a thick coat, longer on the chest, neck and hind legs. Like all northern dogs, it is very susceptible to periodic shedding, so it is not recommended for keeping at home. But the breed does not have a characteristic “dog” smell. He is not very fond of other dogs, but in relationships with people, even strangers, he behaves with restraint.
Features of long-eared breeds
Such dogs are distinguished by grace and texture. However, only dogs of hunting breeds have large floppy ears, which do not need them for beauty.
Elongated shells increase the dog’s sense of smell, since while running, low-lying lobes sweep away microparticles from the ground, enhancing the smell of prey.
To keep such a breed in urban conditions, you will have to provide the dog with proper maintenance. She needs active walks and games in the fresh air - running, jumping, chasing. A lack of movement will provoke obesity and the development of slowness, which will negatively affect health and character.
Long-eared breeds are prone to ear canal inflammation due to poor ventilation. All owners should take this into account.
Swedish Lapphund
Outside the Swedish kingdom, the breed is almost unknown, although it dates back hundreds of years. The Lapland Spitz (the second name of this breed) is a small black shaggy dog with a cute face. But the appearance of this dog is deceptive; behind it lies the persistent northern character of a hunting and sled dog.
There are two types of Lapphunds - short-haired and long-haired. The last type is recognized as the most “correct” and ancient. The animal's coat is double and dense, with a thick undercoat, which is due to the harsh climatic conditions of northern Sweden. Even during rest, the Lapland Spitz carefully observes what is happening around, and at any moment, without hesitation, rushes to guard the territory and the owner.
Small fluffy dog breeds
Of course, each of us can name at least five small breeds (for example: Chihuahua, Yorkie, Pomeranian Spitz, Russian Toy, Chinese Crested), but if, in addition to the tiny size, we add the conditions of long fluffy hair, the task will become much more difficult. Let's make it easier by introducing you to five small, fluffy dog breeds.
Pomeranian Spitz is the fluffiest dog
Pomeranian, photo by Snapped In Nashville.
When it comes to the fluffiest dog breeds, the Pomeranian Spitz deservedly tops the list. Despite their small size, these pets are very brave and can stand up for themselves, while they are not aggressive at all, they are kind and love active games.
Black fluffy Pomeranian dog, photo by Michelle Ress.
Pomeranian, photo by Keira Morgan.
Representatives of this breed grow to a height of 18-22 cm, weight - from 1.4 to 3.5 kg. The colors of the long fluffy six come in a wide variety - black, red, black and tan, sable, cream, blue, white, etc.
- Pomeranian Spitz - photo, description of the breed, character, and video;
- Types of Pomeranian in photographs (bear, toy, etc.);
- Pomeranian Spitz rats with photos | puppy price and where to buy.
Papillon - a small, fluffy butterfly dog
Papillon, photo by Furbychan.
The name of this breed of small, fluffy dog is the Continental Toy Spaniel, and the Papillon is one of two existing types. Due to their large ears, which seem huge against the background of their small overall size, these pets resemble butterflies. They are often called “butterfly dogs.”
Papillon breed, photo by Andrea Arden. Papillon, photo by Toshihiro Gamo.
The sizes of these dogs are small - height is from 20 to 28 cm, weight can be from 1.5 to 5 kilograms. The coat is long and silky, short only on the muzzle and the front of the legs. It is worth noting that in the ranking of the smartest dog breeds, the Papillon takes 8th place.
- Papillon - photos of dogs and puppies, description of character, care and maintenance.
Tibetan spaniel - the monks' furry companion
Small furry dog breeds - photo of Tibetan Spaniel (by PINKÉ).
The red fluffy dog in the photo above, despite its name, does not belong to European spaniels; it is called that only because of its external resemblance to them. Representatives of the breed are not only red; according to the standard, almost any coat color is allowed. Tibetan spaniels have always served as companions and guards in Buddhist monasteries, while Tibetan mastiffs were more used for the second purpose.
The height of dogs of this breed is about 25 cm, weight - from 4 to 7 kg. The coat is silky and moderately long, thanks to the thick, fine undercoat it appears very fluffy. Tibetan Spaniels are intelligent, independent and courageous. Friendly and affectionate with family, but shy away from strangers.
Coton de Tulear - a fluffy dog from Madagascar
White fluffy dog - Coton de Tulear breed, photo by Denube.
When talking about the breeds of fluffy dogs with photographs, one cannot fail to mention the Coton or Tulear. Unlike previous breeds, the structure of these dogs' fur resembles cotton rather than silk. There is another name for the breed - Madagascar Bichon. Sharp intelligence, quick wit, activity and perkiness - this is how you can briefly describe the temperament of these dogs.
