Dogs In The Herding Group

The Australian Cattle Dog is a cattle herder; and has the willingness and endurance level to work all day long.  This breed loves the open spaces.  The Australian Cattle Dog is a cross between the Dingo(native dog in Australia) and Highland Collie.  The Australian Cattle Dog was recognized by AKC in 1980.

Australian Cattle Dog

The Herding Group

The Herding Group is one of the eight dog group classification recognized by the American Kennel Club.  The Herding Group was formed in 1983.  The members in the Herding Group were once part of the Working Group.  Even though most members now in the Herding Group are not exposed to farms; they have the natural instinct to herd.  Over the next several days we will take a closer look at those wonderful dogs that are part of the Herding Group.

(provided by Brandykegs Saint Bernards)

Dogs In The Working Group

The Tibetan Mastiff is a beautiful large imposing dog.  This breed is a guardian and they are also independent thinkers.  The Tibetan Mastiff female only has one estrus cycle a year; because of that most puppies are born in December or January.  This breed has large powerful jaws and is very fond of wood; so keep that in mind or your furniture will be nothing more than favorite chew toys.  The Tibetan Mastiff was recognized by AKC in 2006.

Tibetan Mastiff

Dogs In The Working Group

The Standard Schnauzer originated in Germany.  The Standard Schnauzer is the oldest of the three schnauzer breeds.  Their dominate characteristic is their moustache and beard;  it is also how their name was derived (schnauze is a German word meaning moustache/beard).  The Standard Schnauzer was originally placed in the terrier group (because of their vermin hunting);  in Germany they were always considered part of the working group.  The Standard Schnauzer was recognized by AKC in 1904.

Standard Schnauzer

Dogs In The Working Group

The Siberian Husky comes from Northeast Asia and was used as a sled dog.  They have an incredibly dense coat thanks to their very cold origins.  They are a high energy level dog; so be sure to exercise them regularly.  The Siberian Husky was recognized by AKC in 1930.

Siberian Husky

Dogs In The Working Group

Did you know the Samoyed has black lips?  This breed is alert, as well as a hardy and eager worker.  Their beautiful coat is pure white, white and biscuit, or cream and biscuit.  The Samoyed has the distinction of being called a true primitive dog; their are no traces of wolf or fox in their genetic makeup.  In the past this breed was known as a reindeer herder and a sled dog. The Samoyed was recognized by AKC in 1906.

Samoyed

Dogs In The Working Group

The Saint Bernard is well-known for rescuing those lost in the treacherous Saint Bernard Pass.  Their highly developed sense of smell is why they were able to find those lost in the snow.  Saint Bernard coats are either short or long; both coats types shed (a lot!!!!!!!!) Saint Bernards drool as well, some more than others but they drool.  They are devoted to their families.  The Saint Bernard was part of the first ten breeds recognized by AKC; they were recognized in 1885.  The Saint Bernard Club of America is one of the oldest Specialty Clubs in the United States; founded in 1888.  The Saint Bernard has a heritage to be proud of; I am proud they have been part of my life for so many years.

Saint Bernard

Saint Bernard Puppy

Dogs In The Working Group

The Rottweiler is intelligent, powerful, and possesses a born instinct to protect.  Their coat color is black with markings of rust or mahogany.  The Rottweiler is believed to have descended from the drover dogs of ancient Rome.  From its early beginnings, the Rottweiler has always been a guard dog; it is still used today in law enforcement.  The Rottweiler was recognized by AKC in 1931.

Rottweiler

Dogs In The Working Group

The Portuguese Water Dog is another member of the Working Group that is quite at home in the water.  Their coat is waterproof and they have the stamina to swim all day long.  Their coat may be wavy or curly; and range in colors from black, white, or brown.  The Portuguese Water Dog is not only a swimmer but a diver as well.  In  the past while accompanying fishermen, they would dive into the water and retrieve fish nets, herd fish into nets, and simply dive for fish.  The Portuguese Water Dog was recognized by AKC in 1983.

Portuguese Water Dog

April Fool's Day

Are you the fool for the day?