Happy Easter

Happy Easter from Brandykegs!

Dogs In The Working Group

The Newfoundland is a true water dog; known for long distance swimming and their natural life-saving instincts in the water.   In the past they helped the fishermen in Newfoundland pull in the heavy fish nets.  They have a wonderful temperament making them a great choice for families.  The Newfoundland was recognized by AKC in 1886.

Newfoundland

Dogs In The Working Group

The Neapolitan Mastiff  is easily recognized by its commanding size and an abundance of loose skin folds resembling wrinkles.  You may expect their coat to be rough since it resembles wrinkles; however their coats are very soft.  Their short coat colors range from gray, blue, black, mahogany, and tawny.  White and brindle markings are also seen on this breed.  The Neapolitan Mastiff was recognized by AKC in 2004.

Neapolitan Mastiff

Dogs In The Working Group

The Mastiff has been around for a very long time; they have been depicted on Egyptian monuments dating back 3000 B.C.  The Mastiff is known for its good nature as well as its courage and docility.  Their  short coat colors range from fawn, apricot, or brindle. The Mastiff was recognized by AKC in 1885. 

Mastiff

Dogs In The Working Group

The Leonberger is calm, gentle, and sweet; their most important job is being a reliable family companion.  The Leonberger is most closely related to the Saint Bernard.  Their beautiful coats can be red, reddish brown, sandy, or yellow brown; they always have a black mask.  Leonbergers should have tight flews and they should not drool.  I am very fond of this breed that was bred to look like a lion.  The Leonberger was recognized by AKC in 2010.

Leonberger

Dogs In The Working Group

The Kuvasz is described as bold, courageous, and fearless.  The breed guards livestock without direction from its owner.  The Kuvasz's coat is white in color; their hair can be straight or curvy.  Their name means, "armed guard of the nobility."  In the past only royalty were allowed to own the Kuvasz.  The Kuvasz was recognized by AKC in 1931.

Kuvasz

Dogs In The Working Group

The Komondor is easily recognized by its distinctive white corded coat.  The Komondor has been a working dog in Hungary for ten centuries.  This breed was developed to guard large herds of sheep and cattle.  The Komondor is known for their dignity, strength, and courage.  This breed takes on the role of protector with their sheep or cattle herds; very little direction from their owners is necessary.  The Komondor was recognized by AKC in 1937.

Komondor

Dogs In The Working Group

The Greater Swiss Mountain Dog is best described as large, sturdy, and confident.  The breed is adept at performing farm work in very mountainous regions.  They have a short dense coat; black in color with markings in rust and white.  This breed needs regular exercise but don't overdue it; they can become over-heated since they were bred for cooler environments.  The Greater Swiss Mountain Dog was recognized by AKC in 1995.

Greater Swiss Mountain Dog

Program Flea Control

I thought those of you who have used, or are using the Program Flea Control for your dogs may be interested in an update.  The plant closure in Nebraska has stopped the availability of this product for purchasing by consumers.  The voluntary plant closure occurred in December 2011; and since then the product has been very difficult to find.  At this point there are only a couple of places left to purchase online; and who knows how long their supply will last.  There are some countries still selling the product; but from what I have seen they are not shipping to the United States. 

There is one site in Canada that I caution people about using.  My experience with them was they took my money but didn't have the product.  They have their own little game going on saying, "we shipped your order, it must has got lost."  They are more than willing to say they will re-ship your order but then you find yourself in the same boat; the product does not arrive.  The basic reason they are saying what they are is to hang on to your money as long as they possibly can.  Once you tell them that you have not received the product, and that you do not want to wait for them to re-ship, you are put in a 45 day holding mode (and that is business days Monday through Friday).  I did finally get my money refunded but it sure was a hassle; that is why I caution about ordering from them.

Back to the update on Program; the plant has been in the process of re-starting their plant for several months.  It appears this re-start has taken much longer than anyone anticipated; they have not even determined when this product will again be available.  Here is a link that does appear to be posting updates as information becomes available.

I have used Program for flea control on my Saint Bernards since 1996 and I have been very impressed with it's effectiveness.  I use the product monthly and year round; that is what is recommended.  It is so easy to treat your dogs with this; simply include the correct dose in their food once month.  Unlike topical flea treatments; you don't have to worry about exposure to your children or yourself by simply petting your dog. 

I am still hoping to see this product available sometime this year; but it is really a wait and see situation. 

(provided by Brandykegs Saint Bernards)

Dogs In The Working Group

The Great Pyrenees are intelligent, possess excellent sight, keen scenting ability, and will guard a flock no matter what the weather.  Their coats are thick and weather resistant; white in color with markings of badger, gray, or various shades of brown. Remains of Pyrenees have been found in fossils dating back to the Bronze Age (1800 to 1000 BC); this is an old breed. The Great Pyrenees was recognized by AKC in 1933.

Great Pyrenees

Dogs In The Working Group

The Great Dane is also known as "the gentle giant."  The Great Dane is the State Dog of Pennsylvania.  This is truly a large dog and catches the spectators attention in the show ring.  Coat colors range from brindle, fawn, blue, black, harlequin, and mantle.  The Great Dane is one of the earliest breeds recognized by AKC back in 1887.

Great Dane

Spring Begins

First Day of Spring

Dogs In The Working Group

The Giant Schnauzer is not really a giant; they are basically a larger and more powerful version of the Standard Schnauzer.  This is an active and spirited dog; possessing a reliable temperament.  The Giant Schnauzer's coat is black or salt and pepper.  This breed is strongly territorial; they love their owners and have a strong sense to protect them.  The Giant Schnauzer was recognized by AKC in 1930.

Giant Schnauzer

 

Dogs In The Working Group

The German Pinscher is a great watchdog and companion.  The German Pinscher is smaller than the Doberman Pinscher but larger than the Miniature Pinscher; they are more closely related to the Schnauzer than the Doberman.  This breed is agile, alert, and intelligent.  Their coats are short and colors range from black, blue, brown, red, or fawn; some have red or tan markings.  The breed is originally from Germany and they were prized for their vermin hunting.  German Pinscher's are a high-energy breed; they require daily exercise and engaging activities.  The German Pinscher was recognized by AKC in 2003.

German Pinscher

Happy St. Patrick's Day

Happy St. Patrick's Day from Brandykegs!

Dogs In The Working Group

The Dogue de Bordeaux is a mastiff type dog from France.  They have a short fine coat with colors ranging from dark red to light fawn.  This breed has an instinct for guarding; however they do it without aggressiveness.  They possess a patient calm temperament making them a great attached family member.  The Dogue de Bordeaux is a heavy drooler; not every family can deal with this.  The Dogue de Bordeaux was recognized by AKC in 2008.

Dogue de Bordeaux

Dogs In The Working Group

The Doberman Pinscher is muscular with great endurance and speed.  They have an elegant appearance; demonstrating nobility and temperament.  This breed has proved itself to be a friend and guardian to mankind.  The Doberman Pinscher is intelligent and retains what it learns.  Their coat is short; with colors ranging from black, red, blue, and fawn.  Characteristics for this breed include, watchful, energetic, obedient, and fearless; they are also affectionate and loyal.  The Doberman Pinscher was recognized by AKC in 1908.

Doberman Pinscher

Dogs In The Working Group

The Chinook is not only part of the Working Group; they are also the New Hampshire State Dog.  They were developed in New Hampshire as a sled dog for drafting and racing.  The Chinook is a very athletic dog with speed as well.  They have a thick double coat with colors ranging from pale honey to a reddish-gold.  The Chinook is a playful breed; great family companion that loves children.  The Chinook was recognized by the AKC in 2013.

Chinook

Dogs In The Working Group

The Cane Corso is a muscular and large-boned dog; with traits of nobility, power, and majesty.  The Cane Corso is one of the two native Italian mastiff-type dogs.  Their coat is short but not smooth; it is very thick and coarse making it perfectly waterproof.  Coat colors may be black, gray, fawn, red, or brindle.  The Cane Corso is intelligent and easily trained.  They make great family pets and bond very well with their families.  This is a large breed; however they are very athletic and benefit from regular exercise.  The Cane Corso was recognized by AKC in 2010.



Cane Corso

Dogs In The Working Group

The Bullmastiff is strong and powerful; they are also highly intelligent with a desire to please.  These traits makes them great family companions and protectors. The Bullmastiff may be large; however they are very agile and active.  Their coat may be red, fawn, or brindle.  The Bullmastiff was developed in England to protect estates and keep the grounds free of poachers.  Their guarding instincts means they are not troublesome barkers; as silence was a plus in guarding an estate.  The Bullmastiff was recognized by AKC in 1934.

Bullmastiff

Dogs In The Working Group

The Boxer is aptly named; they are a well-conditioned middleweight athlete.  The Boxer is instinctively a guardian; because of this they have served man well as couriers during war time and also as seeing-eye dogs for the blind.  The Boxer loves children; making them an excellent choice for a family.  The Boxer is one of the most popular breeds in the United States; in 2011 and 2012 they were ranked number 7 out of the top ten breeds.  The Boxer was recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1904.

Boxer

Daylight Savings Time Begins

It's time to set your clocks ahead by one hour!

Dogs In The Working Group

The Black Russian Terrier was developed in Russia as a guard dog; they are large, powerful, and robust.  They have a tousled double coat which is black in color.  The Black Russian Terrier was produced by the Red Star Kennels after World War II.  The goal was to create a breed that would guard and protect.  This breed is very intelligent, learns easily and remembers what they have learned.  The Black Russian Terrier was recognized by AKC in 2004.

Black Russian Terrier

Dogs In The Working Group

The Bernese Mountain Dog is part of the four breeds known as Swiss Mountain Dogs.  Their coat is long and silky.  The Bernese Mountain Dog thrives in a cold environment.  The breed is known for their intelligence, strength, and agility; making them a natural for carting/drafting.  Their coats are tri-colored consisting of black, rust, and white.  The Bernese Mountain Dog was recognized by AKC in 1937.

Bernese Mountain Dog

Bernese Mountain Puppies 

Dogs In The Working Group

The Anatolian Shepherd Dog is also a member; they are known for their ability to protect livestock.  The Anatolian Shepherd Dog is loyal, independent, large, rugged, and powerful.  Their coat can be either short or rough.  This breed is instinctively protective; however they show a loving and loyal bond to their family.  The Anatolian Shepherd Dog was recognized by AKC in 1996.

Anatolian Shepherd Dog

Dogs In The Working Group

The Alaskan Malamute is an Arctic sled dogs; and has the distinction of being the oldest and largest.  This breed is known for their strength and endurance.  The Alaskan Malamute has the ability to carry large loads over long distances.  Their coat is thick and coarse; with colorings from light gray to black or from sable to red.  Some of the distinguishing face features for the Alaskan Malamute are bar/mask on the face, and head cap.  The Alaskan Malamute was recognized by AKC in 1935.

Alaskan Malamute

Dogs In The Working Group

The Akita is listed first alphabetically in the Working Group.  The Akita originated in Japan.  This breed is large, powerful, and alert.  Not only do they do well in the show ring; they are performance achievers and do therapy work.  They have a thick double coat; with colors ranging from white, brindle, and pinto.  The Akita is easily recognized by their beautiful plush tail that curls over their back.  The Akita was recognized by AKC in 1972. 

Akita

Specialty Clubs

Do you ever wonder why some states have several specialty clubs for one specific breed?  Look at California; there are 6 Saint Bernard Clubs. Then look at Texas; there is one.  Texas is bigger than California yet it only has one Saint Bernard Club.  Granted the population for California is larger than Texas.  Is there some incredibly large amount of individuals in the state of California that own Saint Bernards? 

Unfortunately I think the reason for so many clubs is quite simply too many people don't get along.  The sad thing is all specialty clubs struggle.  Memberships continue to decline in these clubs as well.  Membership participation for activities within the clubs is limited as well. So what is the answer?  Consolidation would be wise for some of these clubs; but the likelihood of that occurring is very low. 

Some of these clubs have been successful with putting on a cluster of shows together.  However if your club gets stuck with a Thursday, Friday or Monday show; your entry will be lower than the weekend shows.  A benefit for the clubs doing a cluster is sharing the cost of putting on the show.

It is not just Saint Bernard Clubs that are struggling; other breed specific clubs are in the same boat.  Often you hear that only four to five individuals are helping at a specialty show.  It is the same thing at club meetings, many don't have a quorum so they cannot even conduct club business.    Some clubs are so small that a quorum consists only of 4 individuals. 

I don't think there are any easy answers for this situation.  In the process more of these clubs will cease to exist.  A club needs members and members that are willing to be actively involved.  Some veteran members are burned out; they have been involved in their club for many years. 

I wish all these clubs well.  I hope at some point they can have congenial and productive conversations with one another.  None of us want to be on a sinking ship with no life-preservers.

(provided by Brandykegs Saint Bernards)

Judging Dilemma

If the terms of the confidential contract between a club and a judge are broken; then judging assignments can be lost.  This affects both parties; the club and the judge for future judging assignments.  One party may be viewed as breaking contract terms; and the other party may be viewed as canceling  judging assignments.  Either scenario can hurt individuals or clubs for future events. 

It also seems to cause unnecessary friction between clubs.  Blaming another club for choosing a replacement judge that has a future or past judging assignment with their club; is quite simply misplaced anger.  Put yourself in their position; due to uncontrollable circumstances they have to replace a judge and they have to act quickly.  They go to AKC and are told that there is a 30 day window with judging assignments.  The club looking for a replacement does not have access to the confidential contract between another club and a judge.  So they have no way of knowing that their contract terms are different from AKC's. 

These last minutes changes are posted outside the show rings before the competition begins.  Exhibitors have the option to pull their entry and have their money refunded.

I am surprised at how angry people can become with this situation.  Judging replacements is not something that happens often but it does happen.  So in some cases; the judge that stepped in last minute to help a club; loses a future judging assignment. 

The American Kennel Club might want to include in their advice with last minute judging replacements; that the judge check their past and future assignment contracts to see if  there are any time constraints and especially if they differ from AKC's. 

(provided by Brandykegs Saint Bernards)

Judging Dilemma

Has your Specialty Show been faced with a last minute judging change?  It can happened to any Club putting on a Specialty.  There will always be uncontrollable circumstances; so the key is to be prepared and act quickly. 

First off make sure any judge change in the roster has the American Kennel Club approval.  You will find that AKC will help you through the process and in a timely manner. 

You should consider that when choosing a replacement judge; you need to check and see what, when, and if the judge you are considering has other judging assignments.  Individual clubs have contracts with the judges for their Shows/Specialties.  The details of these contracts are between the individual clubs and their judge choice.  They may require that the judge not have any other judging assignments during a specified time period in relation to the date of their show.  In some cases this time period may be longer than what the American Kennel Club uses. 

The contracts between an individual club and a judge are confidential.  So if your club is considering a judge that has a future or past judging assignment within a year of your show date; make sure that the judge is eligible to judge your event. Simply ask them to verify that they are eligible to judge by looking at the contracts they have signed with other clubs.

(provided by Brandykegs Saint Bernards)

Important Days In March

Here is a list of some important days in the month of March:

• March 10th - Daylight Savings Time
• March 17th - St. Patrick's Day
• March 20th - First Day of Spring
• March 31st - Easter

Don't forget to set your clock ahead one hour on March 10th, 2013

St. Patrick's Day - March 17th, 2013

First Day Of Spring - March 20th, 2013

Happy Easter - March 31st, 2013