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Dogs + Breed Characteristics

  • On the hunt, Treeing Walkers are alert, intense, and loud, sounding off with their big coonhound bawl. But don't let that fool you; at home they are calm, affectionate, and great lovers of pillows and blankets.

  • The Vizsla is a Hungarian pointer, utilized by the Magyar nomadic tribe along with their falcons, to hunt birds and track game. They need a lot of vigorous activity, but as long as they get it, they are gentle enough to lie quietly by Grandpa's feet as he snoozes.

  • The streamlined, steel-gray Weimaraner (Weim) was bred to sustain long hours of hunting birds and even large animals. A great companion for runners or agility enthusiasts, the Weim is ready for any physical activity.

  • The Welsh Springer is a hunter at heart, and thrives on days spent in the field. But he's equally at home playing with the kids or snoozing by the fire. He's an easygoing, affectionate fellow that is more of a one-family dog than are most spaniels, steady with his family but aloof, even a bit shy, around strangers.

  • These sociable, merry dogs are curious, spunky and – like most terriers – utterly fearless. Owners with a good sense of humor - and, perhaps, earplugs - are in the best position to appreciate the virtues of this talkative canine clown.

  • Like most terriers, Westies love to chase things and could get scrappy with other dogs, but the West Highland White Terrier is among the more trusting and gregarious of the Scottish terriers.

  • Most Whippets are quiet, gentle, and well-behaved inside the house, and love to join their people on the couch (and to keep the couch warm when their people aren't sitting on it!). They're friendly to visitors – no watchdog here – and aren't afraid to show how much they adore their owners.

  • Noses vary in size and shape in the canine world, but regardless of what they look like, they are important to survival. So pay attention to your dog’s nose to help him stay healthy. And enjoy those warm moist snuggles your dog’s nose provides you. A dry nose is not a guarantee of illness. Too much moistness could be a sign of a problem. 

  • Whiskers serve many important functions in dogs with regards to sensory inputs. Whiskers help dogs navigate the world and detect changes in their environment. These are some of the most sensitive hairs on the dog's body.

  • Dogs will always lick, but it is sometimes embarrassing when they lick their private parts. Licking after eliminating is normal; however, if your dog licks more frequently, or you notice other signs such as discharge; swollen or red penis, vulva, or anus; pustules; discoloration of the skin; or if your dog strains to urinate, see your veterinarian for help. Appropriate medical therapy can reduce your dog's discomfort.