doglinks
|
Dogs have been
touted as being "man’s best friend" for eons, and with good
reason. Unlike other domestic animals, the dog contained the DNA to be
bred into an incredible variety of subspecies. Humans began breeding
dogs to suit their individual tastes and needs, and will continue to do
so. There are hundred of recognized breeds available already, and yet
new rare breeds still continue to appear. There are currently over 200
rare dog breeds seeking recognition in this country! Some of these
breeds are new creations to suit a new modern lifestyle. Others are
ancient, and struggling at the edge of extinction.
Looking for a guard dog? The Akbash, a
sheepdog from the Himalayas, is gaining popularity on farms as well as
in the city as a prime watchdog. Watch out, though, as this animal
won’t do so well in obedience school without a great deal of
patience, and is recommended for experienced dog owners! This beautiful
dog is well suited to cooler climates. Weighing in at over 100 lbs.,
this canine needs ample room to run. It should be noted, however, in
the wrong hands this animal may be a heavy liability. They can be
aggressive towards other animals, including other dogs, which they may
view as a threat to their "pack" or family. They are bred for defending
homes and livestock from wild predators, and are naturally fearless.
They aren’t going to think twice about protecting their
territory.
Interested in something a little
smaller? The Japanese
Chin is a pet well suited for city life. This toy dog is a
mere 8-11 inches tall. Its long silky fur is easy to clean. Being bred
for companionship, this little creature is highly alert and social.
These tiny dogs are easy to care for and easy to live with. They thrive
on social interaction with people. It’s said that once they
were so small that the Japanese Imperial Court once kept them in
birdcages. It is said that this dog is so sharp, it often seems to know
what its owner is thinking, and responds before given a command!
Another fascinating breed, the New Guinea Singing
dog, is now finding its way back from the edge of extinction.
Discovered in 1957, it was at first kept in zoos, showcased as a feral
dog believed to be related to the jackal. Being declared a subspecies
of the domestic dog and related to the dingoes, zoos have lost interest
in keeping them. Recent DNA studies show now that this canine is more
closely related to coyotes than to other breeds of dogs, or even
wolves, accounting for its unusual voice. The New Guinea Singing Dog
Conservation Society has adapted these animals, through training and
socialization, to be suitable pets for the modern household. They
remain an ongoing center for scientific research as well as information
about these unusual canines.
The Alaskan
Klee Kai is a new breed, only achieving UKC recognition in
1997, and still awaiting AKC acceptance. Standing between 13-18 inches
tall, this dog is a perfect miniature of its Alaska Husky ancestors. In
spite of its diminutive exterior, this wonder dog still contains all
the energy and playfulness of it’s larger cousins.
Originating in Wasilla, Alaska, this handsome creature has begun making
its appearance around the country. Being smaller, they are easier to
keep than the larger huskies, and are more suited towards urban living.
They are still a husky, and require plenty of exercise. It’s
not uncommon for the Klee Kai to be shy around strangers, so proper
socialization is critical.
Anyone with an interest in dogs in
general owes it to themselves to take a look at some of these
lesser-known subspecies. Many do posses traits that make them harder to
handle, thus accounting for their lack of popularity. Others, however,
are wonderful additions to a family, and are perfectly suited to
apartment life. If you’re thinking about purchasing a rare
dog, there is also the security of knowing that most breeders are very
precise! They will generally interview YOU to determine if you are
suited to their particular breed of dog. Most breeders are interested
in maintaining the integrity of the breed, and have very high standards
regarding show vs. pet quality. As always, one should do their research
before choosing a new pet.
Previous
Articles
|
|
