Dog Breeds: Spitz dogs
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General overview
Spitz breeds have many fans. They are good-looking dogs, with small, erect
ears, tails carried over their backs, and most bear a distinct resemblance
to wolves. They include the northern breeds, Alaskan Malamutes, Norwegian
Elkhounds, Keeshonds, Samoyeds and Siberian Huskies, and the Asian breeds,
Akitas, Chow Chows and Shiba Inu. The northern breeds tend to be gregarious,
both with humans and with other dogs, while the two larger Asian breeds tend
to be more aloof with humans other than their owners, and are more prone to
dog aggression. The northern breeds and Shiba Inu are generally very tolerant
of children, so long as the children are sensible. These dogs shouldn't be
taken for granted, however, and small children and dogs always need supervision.
The two larger Asian spitz breeds need much more supervision with children,
and it is worth thinking long and hard before combining the two. It's not
so much that they would harm a child of the family, more that it is difficult
to supervise children and dogs when children's playmates come round. Though
well-socialized northern spitz dogs and Shiba Inu usually get on well with
other dogs, they are still capable of getting into scraps, while some Akitas
and Chow Chows can learn to tolerate other dogs, if enough care is taken with
their socialization.
All the spitz breeds have some behavioural characteristics in common, notably
independence and intelligence. They tend to learn fast, and get bored easily,
so they need owners who are prepared to keep them on their toes and interested
in training. They won't carry on performing the same task in the way a more
obedient or obsessive breed (like a Border Collie) might, rather they will
simply stop cooperating, or decide to do something else more amusing, if they
are asked to do the same obedience exercise too often. They are often described
as bright, but stubborn. Clumsy efforts to 'show them you are the alpha' tend
to be met with amusement, boredom or hostility. Spitz breeds do benefit from
long-term training, however, they just want you to make it interesting. Training
should begin while they are pups, and firm house rules should be laid down
for pups, since it's easier to teach them rules while they are little. These
are generally headstrong dogs, so consistency about rules you want them to
follow as adults is important right from the start. Some of these breeds also
become big, powerful dogs, and can be very difficult to manage if they are
not well trained as pups. Alaskan Malamutes and Akitas are large breed dogs,
and especially powerful as adults.
Spitz dogs all need something to do or they tend to develop behavioural problems,
like wrecking the house, and, especially in the case of Alaskan Malamutes
and Siberian huskies, digging up the garden. Digging seems to be inbuilt with
the northern breeds, both digging holes for fun, and to lie in. You can allow
them to use the spot they have selected, and just give up putting plants there,
or encourage them to use a particular spot, by burying treats in their own
sandpit.
The northern breeds can be trained as sled dogs. Elkhounds have been used
in a wide range of activities, including herding, while Keeshonds and Samoyeds
can be very good agility dogs. All spitz dogs like to accompany their owners
on long walks, though you need more care of where you walk with an Akita or
a Chow, since they can be dog-aggressive, which makes them difficult to handle
if you walk them where there are a lot of dogs. Keeshonds and Elkhounds are
the most reliable off leash. Alaskan Malamutes and Siberian huskies have especially
strong prey drives, and can take after cats. These two breeds also tend to
have poor recall, and love running. They were bred to be sled dogs, not to
do obedience exercises, so are best suited to this, if you can work them.
Sled dogs need much more food than normal while they are working, and you
need to study canine nutrition to get the proportions right, since it is not
just a case of boosting amounts of food. The larger breeds, Akitas and Alaskan
Malamutes, also need especially careful attention to food and exercise levels
while they are growing, so that their bones develop properly, and they should
be fed at least twice daily as adults, to avoid bloat. Many sled dogs have
a tendency to put on weight when they are not working, so their intake should
be watched. Free feeding is not usually a good idea, and it helps to make
food boring, avoiding high-fat treats.
Some of these breeds make good watch dogs, especially Keeshonds and Samoyeds,
which are extremely vocal. The northern breeds are generally friendly, but
will tend to deter intruders by giving a warning bark. Akitas and Chows can
be very intimidating for someone who enters your home without your permission.
It is best to socialize these Asian spitz breeds as much as possible to be
safe with humans, since otherwise they may bite someone you would rather they
didn't, like a neighbour's child.
Spitz dogs are generally clean, don't smell much of 'dog' and even the long
coated breeds like Keeshonds and Samoyeds don't need much grooming for long-haired
dogs, except when they shed their undercoats, or 'blow' their coats. Then
they need grooming more than once a day, and even then will fill your house
with fluff. The thickness of the coat depends very much where you live, how
cold your house is, and how much time the dog spends outside. The summer coat
is thinner than the winter coat, and dogs that don't get out much and live
in homes with central heating, or who live in warmer areas, tend to have thinner
coats. The northern breeds tend to act like puppies with the first snowfall,
They love rolling in snow. They also like to roll out of doors when they are
shedding, as it seems to loosen the underfur. All these breeds except chows
blow their coats. Chows don't fill your house with fluff twice a year, but
they do need more grooming than the other breeds.
These are thick-coated breeds, so they can all suffer in hot weather if they
are not given access to shade. Especial care should be taken if they are left
in cars, so that they aren't trapped in the heat. They need access to water
and shade, and many like to bathe in shallow water when it is hot. They should
not be taken out in the heat of the day, and strenuous exercise should be
reserved for early morning and after sunset. They do like to cool their tums
by lying on stone or ceramic tile surfaces in the summer, and Keeshonds especially
like to lie in doorways at night.
The northern breeds like to be with their human packs, though they can tolerate
being outside in winter better than humans can, and take particular pleasure
in playing in snow and on frosty ground. You may want to give them access
to your garden through a dog door. They do need high fences, and these fences
should go underground, since these breeds can be good diggers, especially
Alaskan Malamutes and Siberian huskies. They are also good at jumping, and
can jump higher than you might expect for their height. They like to climb
onto low walls and other raised areas to keep an eye on the world, so make
sure this does not give them access to your boundary wall. It is possible
for these dogs to feel the cold, even though they have thick coats, because
the coat thickness depends on what they are used to. A northern breed used
to central heating should not suddenly be left in an outdoor kennel in winter,
for example, but needs time to adapt to cold and grow a thick coat.
Spitz dogs tend to be healthy as a group, though the larger breeds are vulnerable
to bloat and problems with bone growth, as are most large-breed dogs. They
need at least two meals a day and rest before and after eating, to avoid bloat,
and pups need attention for their nutrition and exercise, so their bones grow
properly. The Chow Chow also has particular problems, but on the whole, individuals
from these breeds don't cost as much in vet bills as many breeds.
All of these dogs can be a handful if not trained properly, and they are
less forgiving of mistakes than, say, Labrador or Golden Retrievers. However,
Keeshonds and Elkhounds are generally the easiest to train, while Akitas and
Chows are the most difficult breeds, and are not recommended for novices.
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.
Breed Profiles
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Akitas: The Complete Pet Owner's Manual
Dan Rice
Barron's Educational Series Inc.,U.S.; 2nd Edition (Revised) (29 Jun 2007)
ISBN-10: 0764136429
ISBN-13: 978-0764136429
Akitas, also known as Japanese Akitas, are magnificent dogs, a little
bigger than German Shepherds, very powerful looking, with short, thick
fur and curled, upright tails. They are bold and strong-willed dogs,
and are best suited to owners with experience of dogs and knowledge
of training, preferably with experience of spitz dogs or other independent
breeds, rather than just labradors and golden retrievers! Akitas need
to have house rules laid down from when they are pups, or they can become
pushy. Resource guarding can be a problem unless these dogs are carefully
trained. Akitas can learn fast, but are easily bored by repetition in
training. They like company and being given interesting things to do.
Akitas left at home all day and given little to do when owners are home
are likely to become difficult to handle. The breed was initially developed
to fight other dogs and work as a guard dog, though they are used in
a range of activities today, as police dogs, guard dogs, and even service
dogs, helping disabled people. They swim well, and can be good retrievers,
if trained when they are young. There are two main types, the Japanese
lines, which tend to be smaller, and US Akitas. Both types of Akita
need careful training, and are best kept active, and allowed to be part
of the family.
Akitas can be aloof with strangers while bonding strongly with their
owners. They usually get on well with children in the household, though
need supervision, and cannot always be trusted with visiting children.
They are not suitable for households where neighbourhood children are
often running in and out of the house and garden, though well socialized
Akitas will accept sensible visiting children who respect them, and
who have been introduced by their owners. Akita puppies need careful
socialisation, both with other dogs and with humans. Akitas may still
become dog aggressive as they get older, despite socialization. It is
safer to exercise them on a lead, because they can't always be trusted
with other dogs. They need a large garden with a high fence, since they
are good at jumping, and not everyone can walk an Akita, so there may
be days when they have to get their exercise in the garden. The fence
should be mostly solid so that they do not have to see other dogs or
small children trying to tease them - and teasing an Akita is not a
sensible thing to do! Tying up an Akita with no fence is asking for
trouble, since children could easily approach the dog and get hurt.
Akitas are natural guard dogs, and should not be taught to distrust
strangers. It's safer to lock gates to ensure that no strangers can
get unsupervised access to the garden, even if your Akita is well-socialised.
Some owners take pride in owning a 'tough' dog, and there are even
a few breeders who prize aggression against other dogs or humans. It
is unwise to take on a dog from such a breeder, since even a relatively
placid Akita is a lot to take on. It's much safer to choose a pup which
has two parents of nice temperaments, and which has already been socialized
to be friendly with children.
Akitas don't shed much, except when they 'blow' their coats, when they
need a lot of grooming. They can be quite vocal, making a range of sounds,
which owners learn to interpret. They are clean dogs, and easy to housetrain.
Health problems include those common to large breeds, such as vulnerability
to bloat. Akitas should be fed at least twice a day and allowed to rest
after eating. Diet and exercise levels for puppies are also important
to allow their bones to grow properly. Other health problems include
canine hip dysplasia, problems with their kneecaps and eyes, hypothyroidism,
allergic skin diseases and general autoimmune problems.
This book is a short, introductory guide to Akitas from a US vet, Dan
Rice. He explains to novices what to expect from their dogs, and how
to care for them and get the best out of them. It's clearly written,
and is good as far as it goes, though experienced owners are likely
to want more.
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The Akita Today (Book of the Breed)
David Killilea, Jenny Killilea
Ringpress Books
ISBN: 1860540996
This book provides more detail on Akitas than Dan Rice's book, though
it also costs more. The history of the breed is dealt with well, and
the links between the development of the breed and its character are
well explained. The book gives a very clear picture of the breed, and
there is enough here to interest experienced owners of Akitas.
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Alaskan Malamute: The Complete Pet Owner's Manual
Betsey Sikora
Barron's Educational Series Inc.,U.S.; 2nd edition (revised) (1 Dec 2007)
ISBN-10: 0764136763
ISBN-13: 978-0764136764
Alaskan Malamutes are a big contrast to akitas in that they are usually
very friendly with anyone who will pay them attention. They tend to
stay puppyish for a long time, and are not as serious as an Akita. Like
Akitas, however, Alaskan Malamutes are designed to work, like being
in the company of their owners, and get bored unless they have something
to do. Bored Malamutes can rearrange your home, and dig holes in your
carpets and furniture. Exercising a Malamute can be difficult, since
they are not always easy to take on walks. Individuals vary, and while
some can be trained fairly easily (for a spitz), others combine a number
of challenges, such as poor recall, and being dog aggressive. Most Alaskan
Malamutes will shoot off after small prey, like cats and squirrels.
They are designed to be sled dogs, so if you are interested in this
breed, it's worth finding out about sledding, and using them for the
purpose they were designed for. Alaskan Malamutes are not as fast as
Siberian huskies as sled dogs, but they are very strong, and have been
used as freight dogs, where strength rather than speed is important.
Well-behaved Malamutes can carry a dog backpack, and accompany you on
long walks, though you may need to use a flexileash to ensure they stay
with you, and may find controlling them difficult if they spot a small
furry creature they want to chase. Pups need their exercise regulated
for correct bone growth, as with all large-breed dogs. Like Sibes, Alaskan
Malamutes tend to overeat when not working, and tend to wander if not
confined securely. As they are good diggers, this means ensuring that
the fence goes underground. It's also best not to leave them outside
alone in the garden for long periods. Though they can stand the cold
very well, they like to be with their human pack, and would really prefer
the humans to be outside in the cold! Working sled dogs are usually
kept in kennels, but dogs kept mainly as pets are likely to be bored
if left outside and not worked much, especially if they are left alone,
with no other dogs for company. Keeping sled dogs indoors does involve
risk, since they can be destructive, and whether they are indoors or
outside, they need to work. Generally, Alaskan Malamutes are more of
a challenge than Siberian Huskies. They are bigger and more powerful,
so more difficult to control if they are on a leash and want to take
off after a cat. They also eat more.
Are Alaskan Malamutes good with children? This depends. They are a
very powerful breed, and can easily knock over small children. Malamutes
that don't have enough exercise can become boisterous and difficult,
and are not good companions with children. They are also too powerful
for most children to be able to handle on a lead. However, well-trained
Malamutes that have enough exercise are usually very gentle and tolerant
with children. They are also generally good with other dogs, but socialization
is important, and even then there can be friction between dogs of the
same sex. It is no fun walking a dog-aggressive Malamute because they
are so strong, so it's well worth socializing them with other dogs when
they are pups.
Alaskan Malamutes don't need much grooming, except when they 'blow'
their coats, and they are clean dogs, usually housetrained very easily.
They can be quite vocal, especially when bored, and they can make a
surprising range of sounds. Common health problems include hip dysplasia
and eye trouble. They need shade and water in summer, and should not
be exercised when it's very hot.
Sikora's guide is an excellent introduction to the breed, though it
is a little short. It's well worth reading if you are considering the
breed, and want to know the pros and cons of Alaskan Malamutes, and
get some idea of what living with one involves. There's a lot of help
with training, and the book is very well illustrated. It's also an inexpensive
book.
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Alaskan Malamute (Pet Love)
Thomas Stockman
Interpet Publishing
ISBN: 1902389034
This is a very good introduction to Alaskan malamutes for novice owners
of the breed. It is clearly written, and easy to follow, with advice
for all stages of the dog's life, from choosing and raising a pup to
training an adult dog. It is also very well illustrated.
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A New Owner's Guide to Chow Chows
Richard G. Beauchamp
TFH Publications
ISBN: 0793827809
Chow Chows are curious looking dogs, with blue black tongues, little
cat feet, serious-looking faces, small ears, big ruffs, and black or
reddish fur which can be long or teddy bear plush.. They can also come
in cream, blue or tan, always just one colour. The best known Chow Chows
are the reddish-plush teddy bears. They are a little smaller than Samoyeds
and Siberian Huskies, and bigger than Keeshonds. Despite not being especially
big dogs, they pack a lot of willpower into their furry forms. Chow
Chows have a reputation for being one of the most difficult breeds,
although Chow Chow owners talk of enjoying very strong bonds with their
dogs. They can appear to be very easy dogs as pups, because they housetrain
easily, and don't jump all over visitors as much as many breeds, but
Chow Chows do need owners who can be firm and calm, or problems tend
to surface as the dogs get older. These dogs tend to form a close relationship
with one person, and are not always trustworthy with strangers or other
dogs, especially if they feel threatened. Indviduals do vary, and socialization
and training help enormously. Socialization with people and other dogs
should be ongoing from the day the pup first arrives. There is no need
to force the pup to be hugged and manhandled by people, the aim is simply
for the pup to grow up into an adult that behaves well when visitors
come into your home, and can be taken to the vets with no problems.
Arming visitors with the pup's favourite titbits can help persuade him
that it is worth obeying the visitor's command to 'sit' for a titbit
- and obeying the command is important! Adult Chow Chows are always
likely to show some reserve with strangers, but well trained and well-socialized
Chow Chows will not try to defend their territory against visitors shown
in by their owners. Training basic commands is important from when the
dog is a pup, as is consistency in enforcing those commands, since this
is a headstrong breed, which is much more difficult to train as an adult.
It's easier, for example to make sure that the pup always sits at the
kerb before you cross the road, than to try to teach this to an adult
Chow Chow which is tempted to take on passing dogs rather than sit nicely
while you wait for the lights to change. Pups tend to be less headstrong,
and if you instil automatic obedience in pups of commands you will want
the adult to obey, your life will be much easier later on. This breed
is not as forgiving of mistakes in raising puppies as some breeds are.
Chow Chows benefit from short daily training sessions at home as well
as any training classes they go to. Motivating the dog is important;
a Chow Chow will tend to ask what's in it for me?', so the trick is
to persuade the dog that it's in his interests to do what you tell him.
Trying to force an unwilling Chow Chow to do something is not much fun,
because they will tend to dig their heels in, but it's possible to train
Chow Chows to do tricks if they are motivated.
This is not an ideal breed for families with children. Chow Chows can
be very good with children of the household, but are less likely to
behave well with the children's friends, unless introductions between
the Chow Chow and small visitors are carried out carefully, and interactions
are supervised.
Chow Chows aren't especially barky, but they do not need to be taught
how to be guard dogs, due to their tendency to be territorial and protective.
They do need a lot of grooming, at least twice a week. Generally, Chow
Chows don't need a great deal of exercise, and often seem reluctant
to move, though, like most dogs, they benefit from regular walks.
Common health problems include sensitivity to veterinary pharmaceutical
products, such as anaesthetics. They can also have breathing problems
due to their short muzzles, and may develop entropion, a condition where
the eyelashes grow inwards. The symptoms include weepy eyes. Chow Chows
are also vulnerable to heat stroke, and should not be exercised during
the heat of the day in summer. They can also suffer from hip dysplasia.
This book is a good introduction to the breed, which gives a clear
idea of the character of Chow Chows, and it has useful information on
their health issues.
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Guide to Owning a Keeshond
Audrey Pavia
TFH Publications
ISBN 0793818893
Keeshonds come from the Netherlands, and are unbearably cute fluffballs
as pups. They are lighter as pups, growing their darker, long guard
hairs as they become adults, when they also have very fine 'trousers'.
'Spectacles' of dark fur round their eyes, are a Keeshond trademark,
though they are not clearly visible in all Keesies, and it's much more
important that your Keesie has a nice temperament. Their name comes
from a Dutch politician called Cornelius Kees, and many people will
tell you the plural is Keeshonden. You can anglicize the name if you
are an English speaker, or call them Dutch Barge Dogs. They are related
to German Wolfspitz, though are somewhat more amenable. Many eulogies
of the breed will tell you what wonderful family dogs they are, and
how they can live in flats, and don't need much exercise. This could
lull many first-time spitz owners into a false sense of security, and
Keesies and Samoyeds are often the first spitz breeds that British people
get to own. Keeshonds are very trainable, for a spitz, but they are
not trainable in the sense that Labrador Retrievers, Golden Retrievers,
German Shepherds, or Border Collies are. They are trainable in the sense
that they can learn complex tasks quickly and can perform extremely
well as obedience and agility dogs, when they put their minds to it.
You need to be firm, consistent, and patient with this breed, and earn
their respect. They are relatively easy to train for a spitz dog, but
they are still not as forgiving a breed of training mistakes as Labs
or Goldens, so it's important to start out as you mean to go on, and
teach a Keeshond puppy the house rules he should obey as an adult. This
includes no biting of ankles or other parts of your person, and a degree
of bark control.
Not all breed guides are honest about the most maddening characteristic
of a Keesie, which is a propensity to bark. They bark when they are
happy, pleased to see you, pleased to see another dog, want to tell
you about the postman arriving, or that an aeroplane or a crow is flying
in the sky... There are ways of controlling this barking, but total
control is much more difficult to achieve than with other breeds with
a less strong bark drive. Tips for Keeshond owners: All dogs bark less
when they have enough exercise, and when they don't hear or see things
likely to trigger barking, so taking your Keesie out for a run before
he's left alone, and leaving him in a room where he doesn't see passers
by to bark at, will mean he is more likely to be quiet and not annoy
the neighbours. Saying 'Good dog' can stop alarm barking, because it
tells the dog that you have heard what he has said, so he doesn't have
to bark any more. Whispering is more effective than shouting for curbing
excitement barking, especially if you want to go out at night and not
wake the neighbours - don't let dog out of door until he is quiet, and
take him indoors again if he utters a peep, until he exits quietly.
Arriving early at training classes means your Keeshond will be less
stressed than if you arrive when there are a lot of dogs in the room,
so early arrivals mean less barking. You get to learn what the different
barks mean, since Keeshonds are very expressive. At first you will think
that their bark (which is a typical high-pitch spitz bark) is designed
for maximum irritation, but Keeshonds do have a very wide vocal range,
and their barks can range from pathetic puppy noises, to 'I am a fierce
watchdog' sounds. Understanding why your Keesie is barking can also
help you respond better.
Communicating with your Keeshond is easy, because they are so expressive,
and have such a wide vocal range. They don't just bark, they also 'talk',
or make a wide range of non-barking sounds which you soon learn to interpret.
They like attention, and want to communicate with you, which is a great
help in training. They also respond well to food used as a lure or a
treat. They enjoy doing interesting things you ask them to do, but make
their own decisions if you ask them to do something they find boring.
Often they will jump the gun and anticipate commands, so you need to
change commands frequently to keep them on their toes. This is working
with a different sort of intelligence from a Labrador Retriever or a
Golden, in fact in some ways, though a Keeshond may be more 'disobedient'
than a Golden, many Keeshonds can learn faster than many Goldens, and
the breed is very versatile. Trying to bully any spitz dog in a bid
to convince them you are the alpha, tends to be counterproductive. The
trick is to motivate your Keeshond, and earn his respect as a leader,
otherwise he will not co-operate. They are fun-loving dogs who like
attention, and often see even obedience training as fun, because it
means getting attention. Obedience training will generally improve their
behaviour, though many a Keesie is an angel in class, and not so obedient
when they are more interesting distractions. Keeshonds generally enjoy
agility immensely, and this is a good way to learn to understand your
dog. They are very good at jumping, and handle heights well, because
they have little legs,. They aren't usually as fast or as intense as
Border Collies, but are much more fun as agility dogs, because they
derive such obvious pleasure from the sport.
Many breed guides say that these dogs don't need much exercise. This
is relative - while a Keeshond doesn't have the same drive to run as,
say, a Sibe, they do need at least a daily walk, with some of the time
off leash, or a spell of active off-leash play outside in a large garden
and a walk on a leash. They enjoy retrieving, which they can learn from
when they are young pups, by ten weeks' old, though they are not natural
retrievers, tending to prefer the chase to the bringing back. They have
also taken part in sledding and flyball, and even herding. Keeshonds
that don't have enough to do tend to get bored and bark a lot. You can
entertain them at home with games. They especially enjoy sniffer dog
games, such as finding cloths with the smell of their favourite titbit,
or finding titbits hidden in strategic places. Once you give the 'sniff'
command, you can hear them using their noses, which are especially well
designed for sniffing, and which even have a special protective structure
so that they can use them when it's cold.
Keeshonds have been used as watch dogs and vermin catchers, so they
do have to learn to accept visitors nicely without barking at them,
and that cats should not be chased. They are generally very friendly
with visitors whom their owner has introduced to them, and they are
usually friendly with strangers they meet on walks who say hello to
them, though strangers who appear threatening are likely to be barked
at. Keesies can also bark out of excitement at joggers, so need to get
used to them from puppyhood. A Keesie isn't the best guard dog, since
many individuals would make friends with dog-savvy intruders. However,
poorly trained Keeshonds have been known to bite delivery people coming
into a garden unannounced. Bite inhibition training is important for
any dog. Don't be distracted by Keesies looking like cute fluffballs
as pups - that is no excuse for their sinking their little fangs into
your ankles. It is preferable to have your Keeshond as a watchdog, giving
an alarm call, than to expect him to protect you physically. Well-trained
Keeshonds are a very good breed with small children and frail elderly
people. They are generally very tolerant with toddlers who pet them
clumsily, and they can be calm and flirtatious with frail elderly people,
looking up appealingly with waggy tails, and lapping up compliments
and petting. They generally very much enjoy the company of older children.
A big downside for the houseproud is that these dogs produce enormous
amounts of fluff twice a year, when they shed their undercoats, especially
in spring, less so when they blow their lighter summer coats in the
autumn. They are, however, generally easy to housetrain, and are clean
dogs, that don't smell much, and they don't need as much grooming as
you might expect for a long-haired dog. The fur under their collar can
mat, so it's easier to take off the collar when they are indoors (many
people take off collars indoors anyhow, since collars can get caught,
leaving the dog at risk from strangulation). Many Keesies don't like
water much, and will carefully avoid puddles, which means that they
don't get as muddy as the average Labrador Retriever, despite having
longer fur. Keeshonds aren't wanderers in the way that Sibes and Malamutes
can be, but their recall isn't always instant, even if they eventually
come back from whatever smell they have found. They are good escape
artists if your garden is not very secure. A passing cat, or someone
they want to say hello to may trigger a leap into the outside world,
though Keesies which have a daily walk tend not to escape just to go
walkabout, in the way that Sibes or Malamutes tend to. Like many northern
breeds, Keeshonds may also 'help' in the garden by digging shallow holes
to lie in. They like to lie in doorways indoors, or on cool stone or
tiled floors in summer. For some reason, they like the draughts of doorways,
even in winter, though they also like to join you on your bed for a
while, if you let them.
Keeshonds take great delight in snow and frosty ground, rolling over
excitedly, and behaving like pups. They aren't dogs designed to live
outdoors, however, and need to be indoors with their human pack - or
outside with you! They like humans company, and can suffer from cold
if left outside in a kennel after having been used to central heating,
and also suffer in summer heat. Dawn and after sunset are the best times
to take a Keeshond out in summer.
Common health problems include hip dysplasia, hypothyroidism and skin
allergies, which may be linked. They can also develop knee problems
and sound phobias.
This book has illustrations to make you drool, and the author does
give a clear idea of what a Keeshond is like to live with. There is
the usual breed history, and there is also a mention of inherited conditions
that Keeshonds may be vulnerable to, and some of their less endearing
characteristics, such as shedding hair everywhere! The book rightly
emphasises the need for training and exercise for this lively, intelligent
breed, and the need to curb its tendency to be vocal, though it is short
on suggestions as to how do do this curbing. Such honesty about the
challenges of a particular breed is to be welcomed in a dog breed book.
The joy of owning these sociable dogs, with their ability to clown,
is also conveyed. Keeshond lovers will want more - this is a slim volume
- but it's a good introduction.
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A New Owner's Guide to Keeshonden (A New Owner's Guide
To...)
Peter Dowd, Peter, Ellen Dowd
TFH Publications
ISBN: 0793827981
This is a more in-depth guide to Keeshonds than Audrey Pavia's book.
There is help for all stages of the Keesie's life, from choosing a pup
to caring for and training adult Keeshonds. The book is also well illustrated.
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Northern Breeds
Margaret Bonham
Barron’s
ISBN: 0764117335
This is a book for lovers of Northern breeds to drool over, lots of
attractive pin-ups of wonderful dogs at rest and working. Margaret Bonham
gives a useful overview of the characteristics of this category, then
describes individual breeds, gives advice on choosing a pup, bringing
the dog home, training, feeding, health and sports. The chapter on training
is especially good. The information on sports is very useful for owners
of huskies and other breeds designed to pull sleds, and there is also
help with teaching dogs backpacking.
A key problem with this book is the wide variety of dogs which have
been included in the category of ‘Northern breeds’. Some Northern
breeds, such as Keeshonden, Samoyeds and Finnish Lapphunds, are more
easily trained than others, such as huskies and Alaskan malamutes, which
have a tendency to take off and stop when they get to the next county.
Another key issue is whether or not a dog will fit into the owner’s
existing pack. Some breeds are better suited to multi-dog households
than others. Huskies and Samoyeds, for example, have been designed to
work in a group. Keeshonden tend to be easy-going with other dogs. Chows
and Akitas, however, which are included in this book, can be both a
challenge to train and intolerant of other dogs. Dogs from some Northern
breeds, such as Keeshonden and Samoyeds, also tend to be better suited
to people with children, than are individuals from some other breeds,
such as Chows and Akitas. These differences need to be stressed a little
more, so that would-be owners can take informed decisions. The sections
dealing with general characteristics of Northern breeds also seem to
be geared far more to huskies and malamutes than to other breeds.
This book is not, then, an encyclopaedic guide to choosing a Northern
breed dog, but it is a delightful ‘drool book’ for people
who love these breeds.
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The Norwegian Elkhound
Nina P. Ross
Doral Publishing, Inc
ISBN: 0944875394
Norwegian Elkhounds are not especially well known in the UK, though
they are an ancient breed and the national dog of Norway. They are a
little bigger than Keeshonds, and have shorter fur and longer muzzles,
but otherwise look very similar. Norwegian Elkhounds are also friendly
dogs with dignity, whereas Keesies are friendly and natural clowns,
more outgoing and more likely to indulge in attention-seeking antics.
Norwegian Elkhounds have been used for a range of activities, including
hunting Elk (hence name) and herding. They are sometimes classed as
'hounds' but don't really fit into the 'hound' class. 'Hund' is just
Norwegian for 'dog', but has been translated as 'hound' in their name
in English. Elkhounds are closer to Finnish Lapphunds, also a relatively
quiet spitz dog, and also used for herding.
Spitz dogs used for herding are relatively easy to train, but they
are still spitz dogs, and need to be motivated during training - they
will tend to turn off if they get bored. Spitz dogs learn in a different
way from Border Collies or Golden Retrievers. They are like the employee,
or the student, who says 'why?' rather than obeying you blindly. If
this upsets you in people, don't get an Elkhound! Elkhounds can learn
fast, and their devotees would say faster than the average Golden Retriever.
They just don't always want to do what you ask. Learning fast includes
learning what they can get away with, so you need to be very consistent
about the rules you want your Elkhound to follow. Elkhounds pay more
attention to their owners than non-herding spitz breeds, so can be upset
by rough treatment, and they respond best to owners who can be calm,
fair and patient with them. They also need to be active, and be given
mental stimulation, or they tend to become difficult to live with. They
like walks, and don't have the strength to pull you over, unlike a Malamute.
Well-trained Elkhounds can generally be trusted off leash in safe areas
well away from traffic, since they don't have the wandering tendencies
of Malamutes and Sibes. They are independent, and their recall isn't
always perfect if they find a good smell,.but they usually come back
pretty quickly after investigating it. They are capable of doing far
more than being good walking companions, however, and make good agility
or sniffer dogs, for example, and have been used for sledding, herding
and tracking. Norwegian Elkhounds and Keeshonds are the most trainable
breeds on this page, and some people see Elkhounds as more trainable
than Keeshonds. It's certainly true that Elkhounds have been used more
as working dogs, so are more likely to have a serious attitude to work
than Keeshonds, which have been bred more as pets, and which tend to
clown more.
Elkhounds are quite vocal, but not as maddenly vocal as Keeshonds and
Samoyeds. They were bred to hold large prey at bay and alert their owners
by barking, and they will tend to use alarm barks. Owners can simply
praise the dog for giving the alarm, and this is usually enough to tell
the Elkie that he doesn't need to bark any more. They shed large amounts
of fluff twice a year, when they need a lot of grooming, like the other
northern breeds, but their coats need less attention than the longer-haired
spitz dogs. Their thick, waterproof coats give them good protection
when the weather is nasty, but they need protection from the sun in
summer.
Norwegian Elkhounds are a gregarious breed, generally very tolerant
with children, and with other dogs, though of course they need socialization.
Reported health problems include hip dysplasia, eye trouble, and skin
problems, including cysts.
This guide to Norwegian Elkhounds is one of the most comprehensive
available, and will delight experienced owners, as well as newcomers
to the breed. There is a lot on the illustrious history of Elkhounds,
and activities that Elkhounds enjoy doing, as well as useful advice
on general care and training.
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Samoyed (Pet Love)
Richard G. Beauchamp
Interpet Publishing
ISBN: 1902389484
Samoyeds are exceptionally good looking dogs which have many similarities
with Siberian Huskies, Keeshonds and Norwegian Elkhounds. They are long-haired
spitz dogs, from Siberia, and are white or cream in colour, with soft
undercoats and coarse guard hairs. They don't have such tightly curled
tails as Keeshonds and Elkies, and their 'trousers' aren't as long as
those of Keesies, but Samoyed owners are quite likely to be stopped
in the street, since these dogs attract attention by looking stunning.
They are a little larger, more serious, and less clownish than Keeshonds,
and are friendly, without being as demonstrative as Keesies or Sibes.
Samoyeds are more difficult to train than Keesies and Elkies, in the
sense that it's more difficult to motivate Samoyeds, but they do learn
fast, and are versatile dogs. They were developed to perform a range
of tasks, including livestock guarding and herding, as well as pulling
sleds. They were also bred to be family dogs, so usually behave well
with people. Samoyeds can attach themselves more to one person in a
household, while being friendly with everyone else. They do need to
be socialized well with people, or they can be a bit barky at strangers,
but well-trained Samoyeds are usually friendly with visitors who their
owners let into the house. Like all spitz dogs, they need to have house
rules set out from when they are pups, and consistency is important
for training them. Well-trained Samoyeds usually get on very well with
children because they are generally calm, tolerant and gentle, and they
are usually sociable with other dogs, generally enjoying canine company,
especially the company of other spitz dogs. There is sometimes friction
between dogs of the same sex, so it's safer to get opposite sex dogs
if you have more than one Samoyed. A mix of a Samoyed and a smaller
breed spitz of the same sex can also work well, though let the dogs
meet first to see how they get on, if you decide to bring an adult dog
into a household which already has a Samoyed.
Samoyeds need to be given something to do, or they tend to bark, chew,
and otherwise become difficult. They make good agility dogs, and walking
companions, though they should not be exercised in the heat of the sun
in summer, due to their thick coats. Like Keeshonds, they need more
grooming than the short-haired spitz dogs, though not as much grooming
as many long-haired breeds. They also don't get as dirty as you might
expect, though they will need a good towelling after a muddy walk! They
are generally clean dogs and easy to housetrain. Like Keeshonds, Samoyeds
tend to bark a lot, though this can be managed to some extent, using
methods similar to those described for Keeshonds. Samoyeds can be good
watchdogs in that they give alarm barks, but they are quite likely to
behave in a friendly way with an intruder who greets them, so aren't
good guard dogs. They aren't the easiest breed for a novice, but much
depends on whether owners are prepared to give them enough to do, and
be firm and consistent with very cute fluffball pups, only giving rewards,
like opening the door for walks, when the pup is behaving properly,
sitting quietly, for example, rather than leaping around like a dervish..The
Japanese Spitz is very similar to the Samoyed, but smaller, and is an
easier option for someone new to spitz dogs who wants a cute-looking
white fluffy dog. Generally, Samoyeds are healthy dogs, like most spitzes,
but they can suffer from hip dysplasia, diabetes, and skin problems,
such as allergies.
This is a good guide for Samoyed lovers, with a lot of stunning illustrations
of this handsome breed. There is a lot of information on the history
of Samoyeds, and help with general care, including health care.
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Japanese Shiba (Pet Love; Special Rare Breed Edition)
Andrew de Prisco
Interpet Publishing
ISBN: 1903098653
Shiba Inu, also called Japanese Shiba, are small spitz dogs which are
very popular in Japan. They are a little smaller than Keeshonds, and
look a little like foxes, with short, thick, reddish fur. Shiba Inu
are not to be confused with the Japanese Spitz, which is a little smaller,
with longer, white fur, like a small samoyed. Like all spitz dogs, Shiba
Inu are independent, but they are more outgoing and playful than Akitas
or Chow Chows, while still tending to bond more with their owners and
be somewhat more reserved with outsiders than Northern breeds. Shiba
Inu are certainly easier to train than Akitas or Chows, though they
like to please themselves. Well socialised individuals usually get on
very well with sensible children, and reasonably well with other dogs,
though Shiba Inu are bold dogs and don't like to back down. They can
get on well with a cat in the household, but may chase other cats and
small animals. They need a daily walk if they are to behave well. They
can suffer from heat in summer because of their thick fur, so should
be walked early or after dusk. They do shed a lot in spring, but don't
usually need much grooming. Shiba Inu were used as hunting dogs, flushing
game from undergrowth. They have also performed well as agility dogs,
and as tracker dogs. Common health problems include eye trouble, hip
dysplasia and patellar luxation.
This book is a good introduction to the breed, despite the need for
a little more editing. It's generally well written, easy to read, and
gives a good idea of what it's like to live with the breed. Experienced
Shiba Inu owners aren't likely to learn anything new, though they will
like the pictures.
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The Complete Shiba Inu
Maureen Atkinson
Ringpress Books
ISBN: 1860540732
This book is a good introduction to Shiba Inu, which should interest
experienced owners as well as newcomers to the breed. It's well written
and funny in parts, as well as being informative. These dogs are not
especially well known in the UK, so the insights that Maureen Atkinson
provides into their character are especially welcome. The book is also
very well illustrated.
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Siberian Husky (Pet Love)
Lorna Winslette
Interpet Publishing
ISBN: 0966859286
Siberian Huskies are striking looking dogs which can have surprisingly
light eyes, which may be blue, amber, brown, or a mix, or they may even
have eyes of different colours. They are very similar to Alaskan Malamutes,
in that they are sled dogs with generally friendly natures that like
to run, dig and eat, and can withstand extreme cold due to their very
thick fur. Like Malamutes, they are also clean dogs that deposit large
amounts of fur in your home when they shed their undercoats every spring,
and, to a lesser extent in autumn. Sibes aren't as big as Alaskan Malamutes,
and are generally much easier to handle. They are still dogs that present
challenges for novices, such as the usual spitz independence. Training
in house rules should start as soon as your pup arrives, since Sibes
will tend to get away with whatever you let them, and it stores up trouble
to be indulgent with them as pups. They need strong leadership without
bullying. This involves not allowing them access to resources if they
are being pushy, for example, not letting them out of the door until
they sit nicely. Shouting tends not to be an effective way of persuading
them to behave the way you want. They also have a strong tendency to
chase cats and other small animals, which socialization may not eradicate.
A Sibe may tolerate a cat in your home that he has known since he was
a puppy, but is still likely to chase all other cats. Siberian Huskies
are well known for their talent for jumping over and digging under fences,
and a desire to wander. They need good fences so they don't wander round
the neighbourhood terrorising the local cats. Sibes are better hiking
companions than Alaskan Malamutes, because they are smaller, so less
likely to pull you over. They do need to get out and about. Bored Siberian
Huskies left alone a lot will tend to dig holes in your sofa and otherwise
destroy your home. They will also tend to raid food stores if these
are accessible. The best activity for Siberian Huskies is the activity
they were designed to do, sledding, and they are popular among people
who like sled dog racing, since they are faster than Malamutes. Siberian
Huskies have a lot of stamina, and work well in cold weather, though
they should not be exercised in the heat of the day in summer. They
need to mature properly before they can learn to be sled dogs, however,
because their bone development can be affected if they start working
too young.
Are they good with children? They were bred to be raised as family
dogs, as well as to work as sled dogs, and they generally enjoy the
company of children. This tolerance should not be taken for granted,
and Sibe pups need to be socialized with children, while very small
humans should be supervised with Sibes. These dogs also generally get
on well with other dogs, but can get involved in fights, especially
if you have more than one dog in your home. They are very much pack
dogs, and will try to settle uncertainties about rank by fighting.
Working sled dogs are usually kept in kennels, but dogs kept mainly
as pets are likely to be bored if left outside and not worked much,
especially if they are left alone, with no other dogs for company. Keeping
sled dogs indoors does involve risk, since they can be destructive,
and whether they are indoors or outside, they need to work.
Are they barky dogs? Sort of. Siberian Huskies can be quite noisy without
actually barking, and have a very wide vocal range which allows them
to communicate very effectively with other dogs and their owners. They
can also howl, especially if you have more than one Sibe, when they
can perform choruses. They are not very good guard dogs because they
are so friendly, but this means that you are much less likely to have
your Sibe attack a child who wanders into your garden, than if an Akita
or Chow Chow were guarding the garden.
Siberian Huskies need less food than Alaskan Malamutes, though most
would quite happily eat as much. They do have a tendency to put on weight
when they are not working. There are special performance foods for working
dogs, and it's also worth studying the nutritional needs of working
dogs, so you know how much more food to give a working Sibe, and what
proportions of nutrients a working dog needs. Common health problems
include hip dysplasia, eye trouble, and skin problems.
This book is a good introductory guide to the breed, which gives a
clear picture of Siberian Huskies' origins, character and needs, in
a way that is easy for novice owners to follow.
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Siberian Huskies For Dummies
Morgan
Hungry Minds Inc
ISBN: 0764552791
This is an excellent guide to Siberian Huskies, which is packed with
information on the breed, and tips to help you enjoy your Siberian Husky.
It's probably the most comprehensive guide to the breed around, though
you may want a more specialist guide to training, if you plan to work
your Sibe as a sled dog. Highly recommended.
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Yukon Alone: The World's Toughest Adventure Race
John Balzar
Owl Books (NY)
ISBN: 0805059504
This book is a real treat for those who love sled dogs, and long to
travel in wide open spaces. The Yukon Quest International Sled Dog Race
involves travelling across over a thousand miles of frozen wastes, mountains
and rivers, and just completing the course is a serious test in endurance
and ingenuity. The description of the landscape, and teamwork between
dogs and mushers is enough to make you want to hop on an aeroplane and
take part, or try to take part in something on a smaller scale in Scotland.
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Honest Dogs: A Story of Triumph and Regret from the
World's Toughest Sled Dog Race
Brian Patrick O'Donoghue
Epicenter Press
ISBN: 094539778X
This is a gripping account of sled dog racing from a participant, which
helps owners of Sibes and Mals to understand what their dogs are designed
to do. It's also worth reading if you don't have one of these dogs,
and just have yearnings to pit yourself against the elements, and survive
extreme conditions, working as a team with dogs, and trying to outwit
other teams. It does appeal to our fascination with primitive forces
of nature, and our desires to show how we can survive under extreme
conditions, but it's best read when you are somewhere nice and warm!
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The Speed Mushing Manual: How to Train Racing Sled
Dogs
Jim Welch
Sirius Publishing
ISBN: 0962364304
This is a classic guide to training sled dogs, which is especially
likely to interest owners of Siberian Huskies. You may not be able to
replicate all the conditions Jim Welch describes in the warmer parts
of Europe, but this book will encourage you to travel to where you can
compete in sled dog events.
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Dogs:
Breed profiles and breed books
Dogs:
Health and Nutrition
Dogs:
General
Dogs:
Origins, canine evolution and wolves
Training, puppy and adult dog good manners
Advanced training, including gundog training
Fiction
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