Dog Ownership 101 - May/June 2016

THE GREAT PYRENEES
An imposing white dog, the
Great Pyrenees were held in high
esteem by the kings and nobles of
medieval France. The breed has
long served to guard flocks of sheep, notably
in the Pyrenees mountains, from which it gets
it’s name. However, the origins of the breed
can be traced much further back to ancient
Asia Minor. Careful and selective breeding
has allowed the Great Pyrenees to overcome
some setbacks and gain a sizable following
in the United States. It was given official AKC
recognition as early as 1933.
THE GREATER SWISS MOUNTAIN
DOG
Among the native Swiss Mountain
dogs, the oldest and largest remains
the Greater Swiss Mountain Dog.
Tracing its heritage to the Mastiff-type dogs
introduced by ancient Romans, the breed is
skilled at herding, drafting and guarding home
and livestock. Although technology has taken
on many of its traditional duties, the breed has
enjoyed a slow but steady increase in interest
as companion animals. In 1935 the breed was
recognized by the AKC.
THE NEAPOLITAN MASTIFF
As an ancient breed with a history
going back to the war dogs of the
Romans, the Neapolitan Mastiff
faded into obscurity until the
breed enjoyed a resurgence in Italy in the
1940s. The Neapolitan is known as a masterful
guard of livestock, home, owner and family.
This is probably due to the breed’s large size
and somewhat severe look, caused by its loose
folds of skin.
THE NEWFOUNDLAND BREED
Recognized by the AKC as a member
of the working group since 2004,
the Newfoundland’s exact origin
is not clear. However, many think
the breed came from Newfoundland’s coasts.
The dogs thrived on the cold, wet island due
to their webbed feet, strong muscles and
heavy coat. They were often used to drag large
fishing nets. It is a beautiful draft and pack
dog on land, greatly appreciated for its sweet
personality and ability to work easily.
THE PORTUGUESE WATER DOG
The Portuguese Water Dog (which
is what its Spanish name means)
comes from that country but is
now popular with Americans and
Canadians along with Europeans. They can
swim and dive and so guard ships, dive for
fish and rescue nets that have been broken.
Technology now does most of that work, but
this breed has turned into a great family pet.
The Portuguese Water Dog was the breed of
choice when President Obama adopted a dog
in 2009. They’re also popular with those with
allergies, as the breed is non-allergenic.
THE ROTTWEILER BREED
The Rottweiler is thought to
descend from Roman dogs
who worked with cattle that
accompanied soldiers on marches.
Some of these dogs ended up in Germany,
where they further developed their herding
and guarding skills. Dog fanciers reinvigorated
the breed, which had nearly become extinct. In
the 1990’s, the Rottweiler was the second most
popular breed in the country.
THE SAINT BERNARD BREED
Dogs are the most trustworthy
companions of man. They are
always there to help you and
warn of dangers ahead. The Saint
Bernard dogs can be relied on by people
traveling across the Swiss Alps. These dogs
have saved many lives in the Alps and rescued
people who have lost their way or got trapped
in the snow covered Alps. These dogs are
said to have been brought to Switzerland by
the Romans in the mid-1600s. Today, finding
suitable homes for these valuable dogs is a
matter of concern.
At this point, you may be curious to learn more
about one or more of the breeds listed above.
Keep in mind that there are many other breeds
out there to choose from and that you can also
consider adopting a mixed breed dog, as there
are many mixed breeds awaiting adoption in
shelters across the country. Whatever you
decide, be sure that you select a dog that you
and your family can love for years to come.
DOG ownership 101 | MAY / JUNE 2016
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