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Dog
and cat articles - on Pets.ca
Breed
Differences
Humans have been breeding dogs for at least 10,000 years. Dogs were originally
bred for behavior and ability, such as hunting, herding, and guarding, but in
the last 200 years they have been bred primarily for their size, coat, and color.
Specific breeds are associated with certain aspects of behavior, and some types
of dog are better predisposed toward training than others.
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dogs |
Herding
breeds |
Scent
hounds |
Dogs such as Weimaraners, Labrador retrievers, setters, and
springers love their work. Even as pets, they should work
to satisfy their need to please and contain their energy.
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German shepherds, collies, and cattle dogs were evolved to
work with farmers and shepherds. Originally bred for stamina
and to nip at the heels of livestock, they are loyal and energetic.
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Bloodhounds, basset hounds, and beagles were bred to follow
scent, work in packs, and howl signals to their masters.
They communicate well with other dogs, and are able to follow
even the weakest trails.
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Additional
information - Sex differences
In the same way that different breeds of dog have certain personality
profiles, the different sexes have traits peculiar to them. The
male dog's brain is "masculinized" by a surge of male
hormone just before it is born. That is
why, even before puberty, males tend to grow bigger and behave
in the classically masculine ways of being territorial and dominant.
At puberty, and again at around two years of age, the behavior
of male dogs can become exaggerated - often making training difficult.
The female dog's brain, however, is "neutral" at
birth and becomes "feminized" at puberty. Female hormones
produced at this stage in the dog's life can increase possessive
behavior and can alter mood, change taste buds, and increase the
dog's need to den. Neutering just before sexual maturity often
guarantees that your dog's existing personality
will be maintained.
Working
dogs
Be it guarding (boxers) sledding (malamutes) these dogs were bred
to do a specific job. They need both mental and physical exercise.
Utility dogs
Most of the breeds in this group, like poodles and Dalmatians,
are more likely to be kept as pets than used in their original
working capacity.
Terriers
Developed to chase small game and vermin, most terriers are small,
robust diggers with powerful barks. They rarely back down when
challenged.
Toy dogs
Dogs such as Chihuahuas, Cavalier King Charles spaniels, Yorkshire
terriers, and bichons were bred for companionship and thrive on
human contact.
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