Dog Breeds: Other breeds

Dalmations are very elegant dogs, and are sometimes taken on by people who see them as Labradors with spots...they aren't! They tend to be much less biddable than Labradors, need a lot of exercise and attention, and can't always be trusted to behave off leash.

Why Poodles in this company? Poodles are wonderful dogs, generally healthy, don't shed, easily trained, and relatively well behaved. They come in different sizes to suit the different strengths we acquire and lose as we become adults then grow older. And what do we do for them? Some people turn them into fashion accessories. A book on poodle clipping is included, but, please, if you get one of these versatile dogs, remember that they like retrieving and doing other doggy things. If you have to show them, please give them some fun too, even if it's just lots of games indoors where their coats won't get muddy or damaged. Standard poodles are generally more reliable in terms of temperament, but often smaller poodles are just bored rather than poorly bred. They are all dog, and need to go out and get those coats good and muddy now and then, like any self-respecting dog.

Hungarian Pulis are also often seen in terms of their coats, and, like poodles, they have a lot more to offer than their looks. They are herders, so a little more demanding than a Poodle, but can be very rewarding for people who want an active dog for agility and other sports. Italian Spinones are gundogs with a touch of hound in their character, not very well known in the UK, and worthy of more recognition. Schnauzers are very versatile, intelligent dogs, though not always easy to train because they are pushy dogs. They too are often seen in terms of their haircuts, but have far more to offer.

Many of these breeds attract owners because of their looks, but it's well worth getting to know the dog underneath. It can be an eye-opener to spend the day with one, if you are interested in the breed for your next dog.

Good manners are best taught from puppyhood, because it's easier, but adult rescue dogs can still learn fast. The best time to teach good manners to a rescue dog is as soon as the dog arrives. That is when the dog is watching you to learn what the rules are. It's tempting to spoil the dog a bit, because you feel sorry for him or her. But it's kinder in the long run to let the dog know gently and firmly what you consider to be appropriate behaviour. Rescue centres usually have their own behaviourists and provide ongoing help for adopters. Gwen Bailey's 'The Rescue Dog' is also full of good advice.