The Bouvier des Ardennes

The Bouvier des Ardennes is a Belgian breed that was originally developed as a cattle drover, but was also used for other tasks as well such as tracking large game. During both World Wars, they were even used as poachers’ dogs. This is a tough and steadfast breed that, unfortunately, became more rare as farms slowly became more sparse in their original region of the Ardennes. Although developed in the 1600’s, the breed had to be rescued from the brink of extinction in the 1980’s. Today it is recognized by the UKC and abroad although is still fairly rare in every part of the world.

The Ardennes is a medium-sized breed that is highly adaptable to many different jobs and environments, provided that he is brought up as a working dog in a home that has space for him to move and work. This is a dog that definitely needs a job, and without one he can be difficult to live with! Luckily he is quite smart and easy to train, which means that getting him started on a job shouldn’t be too difficult. Herding is a prime example of a job he is still well-suited for although he is enthusiastic to do almost any job assigned whether it be agility, flyball or competitive obedience. It is very important to mention that this breed means business, and if he feels like his owner/trainer isn’t competent he may try to take over or challenge authority.

The Bouvier des Ardennes does enjoy spending time with his owners and can develop a very deep bond. In fact, he will absolutely take the role of guard dog if he feels like his family is in danger! In addition to defending “his people” when he feels it necessary, he will also serve as a general watch dog and announce when anyone comes onto the property. In fact, he can be somewhat of a vocal dog in general. Take note that despite his independent nature, when left to his own devices for long stretches of time he is prone to developing separation anxiety and can become a problematic barker. He shouldn’t be owned by those who work long hours.

The scruffy appearance of the Ardennes is due to his coarse, wiry coat which served as protection from the harsh climate while he worked. Medium in length, dense, double and weatherproof – any evidence of the coat being trimmed is an immediate disqualification in the show ring. He must have a mustache and beard about 2 inches in length, and the coat can be any solid color other than white. The standard notes that the dog should look rugged and have “a rather forbidding appearance”, even noting that dogs should be judged naturally and without being stacked. The Ardennes should have a heavy bone that makes him look bigger than he actually is. Fully erect ears are preferred, although semi-pricked or rose ears are acceptable. They should never be cropped. The tail can be long or short, either naturally or docked.

The Bouvier des Ardenees tends to thrive with other household dogs as long as he was raised with them. Socialize him early and keep him safely contained in a fenced yard so he doesn’t wander and come into contact with poorly socialized dogs that could sour his experience. Cats and even livestock are also normally a-ok! Smaller pocket pets might be seen as a tasty snack unless kept safely caged, so don’t take the hamster out when he’s in the room! The Ardennes does well in a household with children and can become the child’s best friend – although like other herding breeds can be prone to nipping at heels in an attempt to herd the kid. In general, he is also amiable to meeting new people although he likes to observe them for a bit before rushing to say hi.

Ardennes are high energy herding dogs that must have regular exercise in order to keep them from becoming destructive and/or hyperactive in the home. They need owners that are just as active as they are that are willing to provide lots of outdoor activities. This hard-working athlete benefits from more than just a simple walk around the block, and does best with a more intense and varied workout. As long as the dog is conditioned to the task, he can do almost anything! This is a very healthy breed that can accompany his owner on high-impact hikes, swimming sessions, and other similar activities.

Bouvier des Ardennes are playful and happy in the home as long as everything is fairly consistent. They thrive on routine and can become somewhat nervous when new situations arise or a big change occurs. For this reason, it can take them a long time to be ok if they need to be rehomed. Socialization is extremely important while in puppyhood so the dog can get used to encountering new and different objects, people and places! This is vital to early brain development in all dogs, but even more so in breeds that are predisposed to finding change difficult. Undersocialized Ardennes are more prone to aggression or extreme fear.

Photo By Carberetmichbini

The Grand Griffon Vendeen

The Grand Griffon Vendeen was bred to be a pack-hunting hound for game like stag, wild boar, deer and fox. This French scenthound is very old (with ancestors from the 16th century) and is the largest of the four Griffon Vendeen breeds. This is a sociable, outgoing dog that doubles as a top-notch hunter. He requires an owner who can give him the extensive exercise he needs, as well as who understands the quirks of owning a scenthound (independent and prone to following their noses at even the most inopportune of times). While he can be a lot to handle, he can do well for an experienced owner that understand the work that needs to be put in!

The Grand Griffon is well known for his sense of smell, and he can use it to get himself into trouble by following a variety of interesting scents! Unlike the breeds utilized to work with people, the Grand Griffon is known for his “selective deafness” when he’s hot on the trail. This means he’s a much harder dog to train, especially for the novice owner who will likely end up frustrated. It is recommended to start early and make training fun, perhaps even incorporating scentwork into his training! This breed (like many breeds) does need a job to do and requires at least basic training and mental stimulation to keep him out of trouble. Dogs that are oftentimes bored can easily become diggers, chewers, problematic barkers, and/or otherwise destructive. Keep in mind that the breed is smart… but he is also willful and needs a firm owner who understands how to work with scenthounds.

Grand Griffons are a rare breed in America and not recognized by the AKC, although they are recognized by UKC and many of the registries overseas. With a magnificent appearance, affectionate nature and easygoing personality, this is somewhat of a “hidden gem” for those who have the energy to keep up! This said, they do have some downsides as mentioned above. In addition, as with many scenthounds, the Grand Griffon doesn’t always play nicely with small animals (other than dogs), due to their hunting nature. They also can be escape artists, usually due to them following their noses over or under the fence which means containment must be secure!

Grand Griffon Vendeens are normally gentle with children, great with other dogs, don’t tend to shed profusely nor need extensive grooming. With enough exercise, they are calm in the home. They can also be protective in extreme circumstances but are otherwise docile and non-aggressive. These traits, combined with their generally happy and friendly natures – even with strangers, can lead to them being a great family dog in the right setting! Right setting meaning experienced, active owners who ideally live in homes with large fenced yards.

The active Grand Griffon requires at least an hour a day of vigorous exercise. The workout is even better if it also features ways to engage the mind as well as the body, such as hunting (preferred), agility or canicross (cross country running). Overall this is an energetic and healthy breed with few health issues in general. Hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, epilepsy and patellar luxation have popped up in some lines but overall most individuals are vigorous and active for many years. The average life expectancy is 12-13 years.

The coat of the Grand Griffon Vendeen is an important physical trait. It should be medium in length, coarse and hard in texture, with a dense undercoat. There should be obvious eyebrows and moustache on the face. Colors include white/black, white/orange, black/tan, fawn with black overlay, tricolor – or what are called “traditional colors” of hare, badger, wolf or wild boar. Other features of this hound include being large and robust without being overly heavy, a deep chest, domed skull, low-set and long pendulous ears, a long muzzle, and a long tail carried in a sabre fashion.

Photo By Canarian; image editing Anka Friedrich

The English Shepherd

The English Shepherd is an incredibly versatile and intelligent breed. Known for his working ability, this is an outstanding pet for active owners who are able to provide working outlets for their dog to enjoy. This is a herding breed first and foremost that is also ready and able to compete in other dog sports such as agility, disk dog, flyball, barn hunt, dock diving, nosework, tracking, rally, obedience, coursing and carting. Still others make excellent therapy dogs, search and rescue dogs or even hunting partners! Their multi functional talents come from the fact that this breed was originally a true “farm dog”, tasked with an array of chores around the farm which they were expected to accomplish. Herding was but one of their jobs, although they are exceptional even in this regard for they can herd any type of animal whether large or small.

The ES is known for their incredibly loyal natures. Their fondness for “their people” is legendary, even giving them the nickname of “English Shadows” as they want to be near their owners as much as possible. They also tend to get along well with other dogs and household pets of all sizes. While they are also courageous and will get “down and dirty” when herding cantankerous livestock, their general nature is one of friendliness and extreme devotion that will last their entire lifespan of 12-13 years.

English Shepherds are very reserved to strangers, to the point that some may think them shy. Most properly socialized ES are not actually shy and instead just need time to make up their minds about a new person. Once accepted, that stranger will become a treasured friend. When in the yard they may bark at passers-by, and some might even attempt to hold a person at bay if that stranger ventures into the yard. While they aren’t generally an aggressive dog they can be territorial. It is important to socialize this breed early so that they don’t get carried away with this territorial nature! Although they aren’t known to jump fences in search of trouble they will certainly take their watchdog duties seriously.

The ES is a high energy breed that must be given daily exercise – both physical as well as mental. This is a breed with immense stamina and can essentially run all day, which means that a walk around the block won’t even come close to being enough! This alert working dog much prefers a long invigorating hike or similar activity every day. Without enough physical or mental stimulation he may become a territorial barker, a counter-surfing, trash-raiding nuisance, or even a neighborhood menace. This breed does best in a rural home and would make a horrible choice for an apartment.

The ES thrives on finding work to do, and is intelligent and able to solve even complex problems. This makes him a natural when it comes to training, for he can pick up commands exceptionally quickly! He loves to please and has a deep desire to work and do training activities with his owner. Most owners are not prepared for a dog with this much drive to work, and as such this is not the breed for everyone. Not only does he want a job, but without one he can become difficult to live with as he’ll try to “make his own jobs”. When paired with someone who can provide for his needs, however, this is a dog which can wow when it comes to competition and dog sports!

There can be a lot of variation in the appearance of the English Shepherd, as most individuals are bred to work which means function is valued over physical features. Members of the breed can sometimes be confused with Border Collies, Aussies, Collies or simply mutts but make no mistake – this is a purebred dog. When evaluating an ES in order to differentiate from another breed, a few telltale features include being a medium size, having a square body shape, the presence of a stop on the face (in contrast to the sloping muzzle of the Collie), and a lack of merle coloring (the ES is never merle). The ES may or may not have a tail. Ears can be rose, semi-pricked or hanging but are not normally fully erect.

One interesting trait of the English Shepherd is his desire for “things to be the way they should be”. What does this mean? Many ES strongly believe in order and rules. Not only do they strive to live by the household rules set forth by their owner, but also believe that other dogs should be following these rules as well! As such, they tend to be referees or even “fun police” in settings where other dogs are playing. They don’t normally tend to be aggressive as much as they seek to keep order in a pack the way that they see fit! For obvious reasons, they work out well in households where rules are set down clearly for them to follow. If there are no rules, they’ll make their own!

The Petit Gascon-Saintongeois

The Petit Gascon-Saintongeois was bred down from the Grand Gascon-Saintongeois by means of the Airegeois and other medium-sized dogs of the region. He was used as a multi-purpose pack hunter who was adept at hunting all sizes of game although usually specialized in smaller game such as hare. The “Petit” in his name does not refer to his size, but rather to his specialty for small animal hunting. Today, this is one of France’s rarest dog breeds and even more rare here in the United States despite being recognized by the UKC.

Petit Gascons are affectionate and happy companions; friendly to all family members while being patient with children. They can be easy to live with when their needs are met, however they are a lot of work if the owner isn’t using the dog for hunting purposes. While known for their stable temperaments, they are also high energy! They do need lots of exercise and a physical job to do – ideally one that involves their nose and their hunting nature! They are known for their persistent and steadfast hunting traits; traits which are inborn and need an outlet. Furthermore they need to live in a home with a yard in which they can stretch their legs. This is not a good match for apartments or even small homes.

The Petit Gascon-Saintongeois is a medium sized breed with a short, tight coat. Always white with black patches (sometimes openly speckled or ticked) and tan points on the face, ears and legs. Occasionally a dog will have a “dead leaf” marking on the thigh called a “roe buck mark”. The breed should give the overall appearance of having both muscular force as well as elegance. For the head and expression, the hound’s brown eyes should show an expression of gentleness and trust. The characteristic hanging ears should be low set and extremely long, long enough to reach the nose or beyond when pulled forward. The tail is also long and carried like a sabre.

The Petit Gascon lives an average of 12-14 years and is a very healthy breed in general with no common health issues known. Having only minimal grooming needs, and shedding very little, a weekly brushing will keep the coat shiny and healthy. Like other hanging-eared breeds, ears do need to be checked and cleaned weekly. Eyes should be checked and cleaned after hunting to be sure no brush or grit has gotten caught in them.

The Petit Gascon-Saintongois can be easy to train as he is agreeable and docile. He wants to please his owner whether it be through playing the part of watchdog, children’s playmate, hunting companion or learning obedience. He is intelligent and tends to learn quickly, although take note that like most scenthounds, he can also be fairly stubborn! Owners should be patient, consistent, and ideally already experienced with training scenthound breeds. While he isn’t the type of dog that will push all the limits to see what he can get away with, he is the type of dog that become bored or distracted easily.

Like many scenthounds, the Petit Gascon can be iffy when it comes to living with cats. He is very social and enjoys the company of humans and other dogs, however cats can trigger the chase instinct. He also might not be the “life of the party” when it comes to strangers. Not that he is aggressive, rather he may be standoffish at first until he is able to gauge the intents of a new person. This is not a guard dog nor a yard patrol-type of hound. He will announce people at the door and then go back to his business afterward. His primary jobs in his own mind (we can surmise), is that of hunter extraordinaire firstly and affectionate companion secondarily.

Photo By Jérôme BARDIAU

The Chukotka Sled Dog

The Chukotka Sled Dog is an aboriginal spitz breed created in Russia by the Chukchi people. This breed was on the verge of extinction around the Soviet era, however was preserved and therefore still exists today. They are said to be the forerunner of the much more well-known Siberian Husky. These hardy spitzes were originally used to pull sleds in the extremely severe conditions of Siberia as far back as prehistoric times! Doing so would allow the sled-riders to hunt sea mammals in the icy terrain. Despite having been around for a very long time, it wasn’t until 1999 that they were officially recognized by the Russian Kynologic Federation.

The Chukotka is a strong breed with the capability for extraordinary endurance. This dog needs to be given suitable work in order to be happy, and unsurprisingly takes well to sled dog training as well as similar types of exercise. Most get along with other dogs naturally, a trait important for breeds that work in teams. They have tough foot pads that can endure the freezing ice and snow, a metabolism suited to an Arctic diet, and a thick weather-protective coat. Predictably, they are built to pull which means sledding teams utilizing this breed continuously win long-distance sled races!

Unfortunately there isn’t a lot of information on these beautiful ancient dogs seeing as how they are extremely rare. They are still recognized by the RKF but not by the larger FCI or seemingly any other registry. The vast majority of the breed’s population still exist in the harsh Siberian lands in which they have always lived. These dogs are still used for their original purpose and hopefully will always remain true to their working heritage.

Photo By Ansgar Walk

The Griffon Nivernais

The Griffon Nivernais was originally used by farmers in central France to control the wild boar and wolf populations from encroaching onto their properties. This wirehaired scenthound is a specialist when it comes to hunting the wild boar, and has been doing so for hundreds of years! After the French Revolution, numbers dwindled and it was only through crossing the breed with English Foxhounds and the Grand Griffon Vendeen that this breed was able to survive. This increased his size as well as his speed. The Nivernais is quick on his feet when he needs to be, but retains a great endurance for working as well. Historically, the breed would often hunt at night either alone or in a pack and although his specialty is boar, he is able to hunt small game as well.

The Nivernais is said to be “difficult to discipline” because of his independence and his high prey drive which causes him to get distracted easily. It can also be hard to train him to be silent as he is a naturally loud hound. This said, he should be given obedience training starting early in life and ideally also given regular mental exercise to keep his brain sharp. Dog sports such as tracking are great ways to work out both his body and mind! Keep in mind that scenthounds benefit from staying on lead or in a fenced area if they haven’t been given extensive off-leash training lessons as they are very likely to go chasing after prey-type animals even with the owner present. The Nivernais is very stubborn and single-minded when he catches scent of something interested and more prone than other breeds to ignore a recall command.

Griffon Nivernais are medium to large in size. The coat is a distinctive feature and is medium to medium-long in length, rough textured, and shaggy in appearance. There is a semi-prominent amount of hair on the face giving the breed a mustache, beard and eyebrows reminiscent of an old man. The body is rectangular in shape, being slightly longer than tall. The ears hang to the sides of the face and are long enough to reach the nose when pulled forward. Colors are distinctive and include several shades of gray/tan (including wolf gray, blue gray, and wild boar gray complemented with tan points on the head and legs), or fawn (mixed with white and blacks).

Nivernais enjoy the outdoors and are always up for whatever physical activity is given to them, so they are only recommended for active families living in homes with fenced yards. They need a lot of exercise in order to be happy and well-behaved and otherwise might be too active of a dog for sedentary owners. An hour a day is considered the minimum amount of time needed although two hours is preferable. When out on walks, prospective owners should expect to be approached often as these dogs are crowd-pleasers both because of appearance and rarity! This is a very rare breed that, although is recognized by the UKC, is infrequently seen outside of France.

The Griffon Nivernais is fearless when it comes to facing down some of the most dangerous predators, however is friendly and affectionate with his human family. He gets along with children and is fairly patient, although needs supervision around younger kids. He may take a while longer to warm up to strangers but is not known for being an aggressive breed. A properly bred, properly raised Nivernais has a stable, down-to-earth temperament. He does need the regular companionship of his owners, however, and doesn’t like to be alone.

The Nivernais generally lives around 11-14 years and is a very healthy breed overall, particularly his nose and sense of smell! His coat doesn’t shed a particularly large amount nor does it require a ton of grooming. A good brushing once or twice a week is recommended, although the coat should be periodically stripped a few times a year like many wirehaired coats. He also benefits from having the hair around his eyes trimmed just enough to keep it from bending into his eyes, and keeping hair plucked from the ears will help air circulate and prevent ear infections. With a bit of learning, an owner can learn to do all of this upkeep themselves.

Photo By Alephalpha

The Majorca Ratter

The Majorca Ratter, also known as the Ca Rater Mallorquí, is a relative of the similarly appearing Ratenero Valenciano. This terrier has been overseen by its breed club in Spain since 1990. It is an extremely rare breed not yet recognized by the FCI (nor anywhere in the United States), and only recognized by Spain’s Ministry of Agriculture and Fishing. The breed was created roughly 160 years ago to hunt both rabbit and rats, and like all terriers is tenacious and brave. Along with their hunting talents, members of the breed are said to make excellent pets as well as great watchdogs! While super rare in most parts of the world, they are somewhat popular in the island in which they were created.

Majorca Ratters are affectionate little dogs and very loyal to their owners. They enjoy cuddling and can form deep bonds in which they seem to become very aware of their owner’s emotions. However they tend to be rather anxious in general and can be prone to snapping when frightened. Early socialization is a must! Owners must also be careful keeping them around cats or other small animals as they can be prone to chasing – understandable when one remembers they were designed to hunt small furry creatures.

The Majorca Ratter is an active dog and needs daily exercise – both physically as well as mentally. This said, the breed is tiny and a little bit of exercise can go a long way. One need only have a small fenced yard in order for him to race around off-lead and burn off some steam. Because of his prey drive and his tendency to wander off in search of something fun to chase, he should be kept inside a fence or on a leash when out in public.

The Majorca Ratter is intelligent and enjoys learning. Although he tends to be somewhat independent, with enough encouragement and a positive attitude, an owner can make training fun for him! Training him in obedience or agility is an excellent way to strengthen the bond between owner and dog. Remember that this terrier is surprisingly sensitive and he doesn’t take kindly to harsh treatment.

The Majorca Ratter prefers to live in a place where someone will be home most of the time as he is very social towards his own family. He doesn’t do well when left alone for long stretches of the day and isn’t normally the type of dog that can be brought to the office with his nervous temperament either. He can live in an apartment however, as long as he is given enough attention and companionship from “his person”.

Majorca Ratters are known for their loud and deep barks, which makes them sound like much bigger dogs than they actually are. Of course, if an intruder were to enter the home they are too small to do any actual damage, but they do make for a good alarm system! Unlike many of the smaller “alarm breeds”, the Majorca doesn’t tend to get too carried away with his voice and can be a quieter choice for those that prefer tiny dogs. Although he is somewhat territorial and will bark when someone approaches, he doesn’t normally just bark to hear his own voice.

Majorca Ratters have short, smooth coats which require very little grooming and shed very minimally. Colors include black & tan, brown & tan, black tricolor, and brown tricolor. Having been created and adapted to a warm climate, they do best in warm environments although can live in a colder climate if given jackets and a heated house! Other physical characteristics include pricked ears and frequently no tail – a trait which is either man-made (docked) or one in which the puppy is born with.

Photo By Bertet

The Northern Inuit Dog

While the Northern Inuit Dog is a very rare breed, it’s possible you have seen one on TV if you watched Game of Thrones! Members of the breed played the Direwolves in the series (although the size was enhanced through CGI once the characters grew). The breed’s history dates back to the early 1980’s, when several dogs unspecified of origin were imported from North America into Britain. The goal was to create a breed which could work long hours as well as function as a pet – following the example of Inuit people who crossed dogs with wolves for a similar purpose. It should be noted, however, that Northern Inuits were primarily created as pets and while they can be given tasks their almost-entire purpose is that of a companion. While there is no wolf ancestry in the Northern Inuit, “wolf-like” breeds such as Siberians, Malamutes and Shepherds were definitely involved in the creation.

The Northern Inuit tends to do best in colder climates as he has a thick double coat and is highly related to Northern breeds, however he can live in warmer parts of the country with some care and common sense. Keeping him in air conditioning, making sure he always has water, scheduling walks for morning and evenings and giving him supervised access to a pool on extra hot days are all ways that can help accommodate this winterized breed to a warmer climate. Either way, make sure to never shave his coat as this will only make things worse for the dog!

Northern Inuit Dogs are intelligent but also known to become bored easily which means that training requires incorporating plenty of enthusiasm and diversity. They also are strong-willed, stubborn, and have a fairly high prey drive to boot. For this reason, they are not recommended for novice owners. That said, they are fully capable of passing a basic CGC test or reaching high levels of obedience when an owner puts in the work! They are also talented enough to participate in dog sports such as bikejouring, agility, sledding, scent work and canicross. Furthermore, some Northern Inuits have even been used as assistance dogs while others have done therapy work – which speaks as much as to their sociability as their trainability. Because they can reach giant-status in terms of size, every Inuit must be given basic obedience training at the very least!

Northern Inuits are often great with children although are not recommended for small kids because of their size and strength. Many also do well with other dogs who can put up with their rough (not aggressive) play style. They do have prey drive and may not be great around small pets although many owners with cats have had success integrating the two. Socialization to cats while the dog is still a young puppy can help encourage a smoother interaction down the line.

The Northern Inuit Dog, despite his intimidating wolf-like appearance, is not a guard dog for he is far too friendly and trusting. He should never be outright aggressive without very good reason. This loyal, friendly and affectionate dog is overall a lover and not a fighter. This said, he is likely to make noise which may deter some would-be intruders. Although he doesn’t bark much, many Northern Inuits howl – loudly! Which is something to consider if one is living close to neighbors…

Northern Inuits only require a moderate amount of exercise. One long walk a day is sufficient for most, although they can enjoy longer excursions with their owners such as hiking. Like all giant breeds, care should be taken when they are puppies not to over-exercise them as their growing joints are not built to handle super strenuous tasks. Along with physical exercise, they also need mental exercise as well which can take the form of training or interactive “brain games”. This breed is active outdoors although has the capability of being calm and relaxed in the house.

Northern Inuit Dogs exhibit some characteristics of other Northern breeds such as digging in the yard, but overall do not have all of the Northern spitz traits. This includes a lack of both typical “bad behaviors” of spitz breeds (wandering, hyperactivity), as well as “good features” such as sled pulling abilities. While a Northern Inuit Dog can pull a sled, it is unlikely he will possess the same endurance as his cousins who were bred for this particular task. This breed was created to be a pet rather than to be a workhorse, which puts him in a different category when it comes to dog ownership.

Northern Inuits are extremely social animals and known for following their owners from room to room. They are also less likely to try to escape and wander the neighborhood since they prefer to be in the company of “their people”. While flattering to many, be aware that this high social desire also makes them more prone to separation anxiety – the downside to dogs with “velcro personalities”. They will not do well in households where everyone is at work for long hours!

Photo By Malfuros

The Beagle Harrier

The Beagle Harrier was developed in 19th century France. It is speculated (although not fully known) that this breed came about by a mixture of both the Beagle and the Harrier – but make no mistake, this is a breed unto its own and is not a mixed breed as some “armchair quarterback” dog websites proclaim. They are quite rare and in the United States are only recognized by the UKC – even then, they are rarely seen in this country. This pack-hunting scenthound was originally bred to hunt hare, deer and fox and can still do these jobs today.

Beagle Harriers are loyal companions and are good both with other pets as well as children. Like other pack-hunters, they do best with another dog in the family. Cats might be accepted as family or they might be chased – for best results raise the puppy with cats to mitigate future problems. With people the breed is affectionate and playful. Like most hunting scenthounds, however, they need lots of exercise and work best in properties that have plenty of space. Exercise should be daily as well as fairly vigorous in order to wear them out – and keep in mind that they will need to be kept on lead when in public areas. Prospective owners should realize the breed is determined and gamey so while they can make great companions they will exhibit sniffing, chasing and hunting behaviors.

The Beagle Harrier can make an adequate watchdog as he does tend to vocalize when people arrive on the property. He’s less of a barker and more of a howler, and his loud bay can carry far and wide! This does not mean that he is likely to defend the house if someone makes their way inside as he’s not really a guard dog, nor an aggressive breed. But his loud bays will deter many would-be intruders in the same way that car alarms send criminals scurrying off to a quieter target…. When not keeping an eye out the window (watching for new friends or woodland creatures alike), he is usually fairly calm in the home assuming his exercise needs are always met.

Beagle Harriers are fairly well-mannered in the home and aren’t normally prone to excessive dominance struggles. They simply enjoy spending time with their families inside or out. When outside, however, take note that they may turn into escape artists if tempted by an enticing smell. They can turn very quickly from a calm, almost lazy hound to a spirited and determined animal intent on the hunt! Tall, secure fences are a must! Because of their love of hunting they do best when given structured games involving scent, and especially thrive when taken on actual hunting expeditions. The Beagle Harrier is intelligent although independent and prone to being distracted easily. Obedience training may be more difficult than with other breeds of dog. Even so, teaching a reliable recall is essential for this high prey-driven hound as it may come in handy one day!

Beagle Harriers are medium sized dogs that live about 12-13 years. They have hanging ears set at eye level and which are slightly longer than that of the Harrier. The tail is long and carried in a sabre fashion above the topline. The coat is short, thick and flat; and is always tricolor of one variation or another which may include grey tricolor or white grey tricolor. The skull is rather broad, with a muzzle that slowly tapers toward the end without being pointed. The general appearance is one of classical elegance, with a muscular build – size and appearance halfway between…. obviously the Beagle and the Harrier.

The Beagle Harrier has a short coat that is easy to groom, sheds only moderately and requires baths on an infrequent basis. A weekly brushing, nail trim and ear cleaning should take practically no time at all. Breeds with hanging ears need a little more examination and cleaning than other types of dogs, but doing this exam on a weekly schedule is easy for the vast majority of owners to do. This is one reason why they can be a good choice for a novice dog owner looking for an active breed.

The Tenterfield Terrier

The Tenterfield Terrier was developed in Australia but his ancestors originated in England. Ancestors included the now extinct Old English White Terrier as well as Fox Terriers and Fox Terrier-type dogs. These little dogs were created with the purpose of riding in saddlebags and accompanying their owners on horseback to hunt with the hounds, as well as “going to ground” and dispatching vermin. It was important that they be small so that they could more easily do these particular jobs. Unlike many terriers, they were not only used for rodents but also for hunting rabbits and even fox! Because of their abilities, they were a favorite breed often seen on Australian farms in the 19oo’s – and at the time were called “Mini Foxies”. Despite being around since the early 1800’s, they weren’t officially recognized by the ANKC (Australian National Kennel Council) until 2002. They are not recognized at all in the United States.

Tenterfields are particularly strong and robust for their size. Nimble, lively and incredibly bold when needed, these are true working terriers with a spirit as brave as their bodies are strong. After a good day of hunting, they make loyal and loving companions in the home and are content to lay next to their owners for hours. Their ability to be gentle with both the very young as well as very old is one of the many reasons they have been popular abroad. They are not intimidated by loud children and instead seem to enjoy hours of playtime and revel in getting all they can out of life! They also do very well with other pets and are even often paired with other dogs to keep their (often larger) counterparts company. Most of the time they get along with no issues even in larger packs of dogs, although will absolutely stand up for themselves if necessary.

Tenterfield Terriers can be vocal when excited, which may make them seem intimidating to non-dog folk. This said, although they will defend themselves if they feel threatened they are not normally an aggressive breed at all. In fact they are quite outgoing and easy to take on vacations or gatherings. Not only are they social, but their size even makes them easy to transport!

“Tenties”, as they are affectionately known, are quick learners and enjoy dog sports. In Australia, it is not uncommon to see them competing in agility, earth dog trials, tracking, competitive obedience, nosework, trick training, rally, coursing, and flyball as well as the show ring. Some have even become phenomenal assistance dogs! This is a highly intelligent breed that is versatile and adaptable to learning most anything!

At this time the Tenterfield Terrier maintains an open stud book. This means that someone who has a dog which looks like a Tentie, although is not, can get the dog accepted as a “first generation Tenterfield”. After five generations those puppies can be officially registered as Tenterfields. This is done with the hope that genetic bottlenecks will be avoided and the breed will continue to be healthy. Every five years, the council for the breed will reevaluate the situation and vote whether to close the studbook or keep it open for the next five years. There are a number of stipulations that must be followed , including anyone who is pursuing this project be a member of the breed club. All first generation Tenterfields must have several health tests completed and be microchipped in order to be considered.

The Tenterfield can be born with any length of tail – from no tail whatsoever (these dogs are referred to as “rumpies”) to short stubs, to a full length tail and anywhere in between! A dog born with no tail is not hindered by any health issues whatsoever, and the breed standard doesn’t favor any type of tail as long as it is set on and carried correctly. In general the main issues that are seen in the breed (although only occasionally) are Primary Lens Luxation and Congenital Hypothyroidism with Goiter, and neither is related to tail length. In the latter condition, puppies do not live beyond 6 weeks. Responsible breeders test their dogs to steer away from these health issues. Overall, many Tenties live an average of 16-17 years with some even living to 20!

The Tentie is quite rugged. He is said to be able to live outdoors (with appropriate shelter), which is highly unusual for other dogs of his size. Most outside-Tenties are assigned with the duty of keeping rats and mice off the property – a job done without any training. Of course, in the case of an outside dog he should still be provided with plenty of affection and attention – this little terrier needs frequent human contact. This breed can also go on walks for up to several miles if the owner were so inclined! Despite having the vitality to satisfy even high-energy owners, he is fully capable of living in small spaces with limited yard space as long as his exercise needs are met.

Photo By David Nemirovsky