Pom-Poo

The Pom-Poo is a cross between the Pomeranian and the Poodle. The best way to determine the temperament of a mixed breed is to look up all breeds in the cross and know you can get any combination of any of the characteristics found in either breed. Not all designer hybrid dogs are 50% purebred to 50% purebred. It is very common for breeders to breed multi-generation crosses.

Poo-Chi

The Poo-Chi is a cross between the Poodle and the Chihuahua. The best way to determine the temperament of a mixed breed is to look up all breeds in the cross and know you can get any combination of any of the characteristics found in either breed. Not all designer hybrid dogs are 50% purebred to 50% purebred. It is very common for breeders to breed multi-generation crosses.

Poodle

The Poodle, though often equated to the beauty with no brains, is exceptionally smart, active, and excels in obedience training. The breed comes in three size varieties, which may contribute to why Poodle is one of the most popular breeds according to AKC Registration statistics. Poodles can be a variety of solid colors, including white, black, apricot, and gray, and particolored.

History

The breed originated in Germany as a water retriever. The stylish “Poodle clip” was designed by hunters to help the dogs move through the water more efficiently. The patches of hair left on the body are meant to protect vital organs and joints which are susceptible to cold. The Standard variety is the oldest of the three varieties.

Ranked second most intelligent dog breed just behind the Border Collie, the poodle is skillful in many dog sports and activities, including agility, obedience, tracking to herding, circus performers, or assistance dogs. Poodles have taken top honors in many conformation shows, including “Best in Show” at the Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show in 1991 and 2002, and at the World Dog Show in 2007 and 2010.

Temperament

The Poodle can accommodate to nearly any size living quarters. His hypoallergenic coat may reduce allergic reactions, but requires regular professional grooming. Poodles are an active breed and require daily exercise.

• Non-Sporting (Standard and Miniature) and Toy (Toy) Groups; AKC recognized in 1887.
• Water retriever, companion.

Environment

• Apartment is fine.
• Low activity indoors.

Exercise

• Daily light to moderate exercise.

Grooming

• Regular brushing.
• Regular professional grooming is recommended.
• Little to no shedding.
• Easy on allergy sufferers.

Ori Pei

The Ori Pei is not a purebred dog. It is a cross between the Pug and the Shar-Pei. The best way to determine the temperament of a mixed breed is to look up all breeds in the cross and know you can get any combination of any of the characteristics found in either breed. Not all of these designer hybrid dogs being bred are 50% purebred to 50% purebred. It is very common for breeders to breed multi-generation crosses.

The Ori Pei was created in North America in the 1970s. A breeder by the name of Aaron Silver loved the Chinese Shar-Pei breed but did not like all of the health problems that were commonly associated with it, such as eye tacking, skin problems, and hip dysplasia. He wanted to have a smaller version of the Shar-Pei without all of the health problems. He used the Shar-Pei and Pug to create the Ori Pei.

Recognized Names:

American Canine Hybrid Club = Ori-Pei x Pug = Pug-A-Pei.

Designer Dogs Kennel Club = Ori-Pei x Pug = Pug-A-Pei.

International Designer Canine Registry

Designer Breed Registry = Ori-Pei x Pug = Pug a Pei.

Designer Breed Registry = Chinese Shar-Pei x Pug = Ori-Pei.

Pekingese

The Pekingese is a well-balanced, compact dog of Chinese origin with a heavy front and lighter hindquarters. They are small dogs but are not to be considered delicate or dainty. Their image is lion-like, implying courage, dignity, boldness, and self-esteem. They can be any color.

History

Chinese art throughout the ages, starting with the Tang dynasty of the 8th century, abounds with images of the Pekingese, who gets his name from the ancient city of Peking, now called Beijing. Pekingese were held sacred in ancient China and could only be owned by royalty. At that time, the punishment for stealing a Pekingese was death. Pekingese came to Europe as a result of the war. When the British overtook the Chinese Imperial Palace in 1860, they returned home with several of the dogs.

Temperament

Pekingese possess a regal dignity, intelligence, and self-importance, making them good-natured, opinionated, and affectionate family companions. Their small size makes them a good choice for apartment life, but they are sometimes difficult to housebreak. They are relatively inactive indoors and do not need a yard, but enjoy walks. Because of their long undercoats, Pekes need at least an hourly brushing session per week.

• Toy Group; AKC recognized in 1906.
• Weigh less than 14 pounds.
• Watchdog, canine companion.

Environment

• Apartment is fine.
• Low activity indoors.

Exercise

• Daily light exercise.

Grooming

• Daily combing and brushing.
• Average shedding.

Peek-A-Poo

The Peek-a-poo is a cross between the Pekingese and the Poodle. The best way to determine the temperament of a mixed breed is to look up all breeds in the cross and know you can get any combination of any of the characteristics found in either breed. Not all designer hybrid dogs are 50% purebred to 50% purebred. It is very common for breeders to breed multi-generation crosses.

Norwich Terrier

Spirited and stocky with prick ears and a slightly foxy expression, the Norwich Terrier is one of the smallest working terriers. Despite his small size, the Norwich has good substance and is an eager worker. The breed’s wiry, weather-resistant coat can be red, wheaten, black and tan or grizzle.

History

The Norwich originated in East Anglia, England, and was developed as a barnyard ratter. Game and hardy, they were used to flush fox and other vermin from their dens during hunts and also cherished as a fun-loving family pet. The breed used to have two ears styles but now is only allowed to have upright ears. In 1979 the drop-eared variety became a separate breed known as the Norfolk Terrier.

Temperament

Fearless and loyal, the Norwich Terrier does well with other animals and families. They are known for their ability to adapt to different situations, making the breed ideal for either the city or country lifestyle. Because a Norwich has strong hunting instincts and typical terrier curiosity, most breeders and owners recommend that the breed be exercised in a fenced area or on a leash. The wiry coat requires regular grooming, including brushing and stripping.

• Terrier Group; AKC recognized in 1936.
• Ideal height should not exceed 10 inches tall at the shoulder; Ideal weight is approximately 12 lbs.
• Vermin hunter.

Environment

• Apartment is ok.
• Fairly active indoors.

Exercise

• Daily vigorous exercise.

Grooming

• Daily combing and brushing.
• Bathe only when necessary.
• Light shedding.

Norwegian Elkhound

A solid, sturdy hunter of elk, bear, and other wild animals, the Norwegian Elkhound has a temperament that is dignified, independent and generally, friendly. A hardy silver-grey dog with distinctive saddle markings and medium in size and substance, the Norwegian Elkhound is not only known for its hunting ability but also for its versatility and stamina, which in rugged terrains remains unparalleled.

History

The Norwegian Elkhound comes down to us through more than six millennia with all his Nordic traits untainted. An ancient breed from Scandinavia, the Elkhound worked as a hunting and guard dog for the Vikings. The dogs tracked, encircled, and held game such as bear and moose for the hunter. The breed was not shown until 1877 when the Norwegian Hunters’ Association held its first show.

Temperament

The Norwegian Elkhound is bold and energetic, an effective guardian yet normally friendly, and does well with children, especially when introduced to them at a young age. The Elkhound is a very people-oriented breed and does not like to be shut away from its family. The breed does require regular exercise but does not require elaborate grooming procedures.

• Hound Group; AKC recognized in 1913.
• Ideal size ranged from 19 to 20 inches tall at the shoulder and 48 to 55 pounds.
• Elk hunter.

Environment

• Apartment is ok.
• Fairly active indoors.
• Thrive in cooler climates.

Exercise

• Daily vigorous exercise.

Grooming

• Daily brushing.
• Heavy seasonal shedding.

Old English Sheepdog

Its trademark is its beautiful, profuse coat, but the intelligent and agile Old English Sheepdog (OES) can easily complete any demanding task asked of him by a shepherd or drover. Square in build and possessing great strength, the OES enjoys working and is seen in the conformation, obedience, agility, and herding rings today with their characteristic shuffling gait. His coat, which serves as insulation, can be any shade of gray, grizzle, blue or blue merle with or without white markings.

History

The Old English Sheepdog originated in the early 19th century in the western counties of England and is believed to have descended from the Scotch Bearded Collie and the Russian Owtchar. The OES herded sheep and cattle into major city markets, earning the nickname “bobtail” due to their docked tails. The short tail signaled their working status, earning their owners a tax exemption.

Temperament

The OES is an athletic animal, filled with clownish energy, and therefore requires regular exercise or a job to do. Although affectionate with his family, he may try to herd people or other objects. If the coat is of the correct texture, the breed should not be any more difficult to groom than other long-haired dogs, provided a dog is introduced to it early.

• Herding Group; AKC recognized in 1888.
• Size: 21 inches tall and upward at the shoulder.
• Sheep/cattle driver.

Environment

• Apartment is ok.
• Low to moderate activity indoors.

Exercise

• Daily moderate exercise.

Grooming

• Daily brushing and combing.
• Regular professional grooming recommended.
• Light to average shedding.

Neapolitan Mastiff

Large and powerful, the Neapolitan Mastiff is known for its massiveness massive head, massive bone, and massive body. Despite their fierce appearance and serious demeanor, Mastiffs are generally peaceful, steady dogs. The breed’s trademark is the loose skin that covers their bodies, the abundant wrinkles and folds on the head, and their rolling and lumbering gait. Their short coat can be gray (blue), black, mahogany, and tawny. Some brindle and white markings are allowed. Training should be easy, as long as you have a firm hand.

History

An ancient breed, the Neapolitan Mastiff’s lineage can be traced back to ancient Egypt, Persia, Mesopotamia, and Asia to the dogs of war used by the Roman army. The breed later existed on estates and farms in northern Italy, designed to be imposing in appearance for use as a defender of owner and property.

Temperament

Well-bred and socialized Mastini are steady and loyal to their own families but protective around strangers. Due to the breed’s size, strength and temperament, experts do not recommend a Neapolitan Mastiff for first-time dog owners or families with young children. They should receive some form of daily exercise, but beware that they don’t overdo it in hot weather. Their short coats are easy to care for, but potential owners should not be afraid of a little drool!

• Working Group; AKC recognized in 2004.
• Ranging in size from 24 to 31 inches tall at the shoulder; Average weight is 150 pounds for males and 110 pounds for females.
• Guard and protection dog.

Environment

• Apartment is ok.
• Low activity indoors.
• Be careful in hot weather.

Exercise

• Daily moderate to extended exercise.

Grooming

• Easy care.
• Average shedding.