Dogs Todays Information about dog breeds, food and training
A mixed breed dog is a canine with parents of two or more different breeds. The term “mixed breed” is often used to refer to the offspring of a male and female from different purebred lines (e.g., Labrador Retriever and Golden Retriever), but can also be applied to an animal who has one parent that belongs to one breed, and one who belongs to another. Mixed-breed dogs may not conform precisely either physically or temperamentally, as their genes will generally come from diverse origins; however they are less likely than other animals such as horses for example, where there is significant inbreeding, to inherit any detrimental genetic disorders because each ancestor’s contribution would have been relatively small. As a result, mixed breed dogs are often healthier than purebred dogs because of heterosis (hybrid vigor). Mixed-breed dogs are not recognized as a specific breed by any major kennel club.
However, some organizations that accept mixed-breed dogs do distinguish certain breeds. The Designer Dogs Kennel Club (DDKC), for example, has developed its own definition of “designer dog” which excludes “purebreds and their mixes” but includes mongrels or mixed breeds with two or more registered purebred parents. A hybrid is defined as the offspring of two animals of different breeds who are themselves first generation hybrids; however if the parentage is unknown then they may be mutts/mixed breeds, and only if they are third generation or later offspring of two purebreds can they be called a hybrid.
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Alaskan Malamute
The Alaskan Malamute is one of the oldest Arctic sled dogs and was originally bred by the Mahlemut tribe of Alaska’s Norton Sound region for survival in the Arctic wilderness.
The breed has been declared an endangered species by the Canadian government for his part in helping to develop modern day life in hot climates such as Egypt and India (where he is known as Kamad), but also because many today suffer from neglect and abuse; both conditions resulting from their becoming popular pets.
American Bulldog
The American bulldog is a breed of dog derived from the Old English bulldog which was brought to New World by early settlers; however crossbreeding with other breeds has further evolved this mix resulting in the large, muscular, short-haired dog known today. They are commonly referred to as “AmBulls”, “APBT’s” (short for America Pit Bull Terrier), “Pitbull”, “Bully”, or most often simply “The Dog”.
Australian Shepherd
Also known as an Aussie or Blue Heeler, they were developed on ranches in the Western United States as stock dogs. They are now prized as family pets, and have gained recognition by many United Kennel Club (UKC), American Dog Breeders Association (ADBA) or Canadian Kennel Club-registered breed clubs, where they compete with other herding breeds. Although their origins are largely unknown, Australian Shepherds have been identified through registration data as having multiple ancestors from various herding breeds.
Beagle
The Beagle is a small-sized hound that has its origins in fox hunting; though today they are more commonly kept as companions due to their size and even temperament around children. Despite this fact however, beagles still make excellent working dogs – particularly because of their sense of smell.
Belgian Shepherd
The Belgian Shepherd, also known as the Chien de Berger Belge (translated to “Belgian Sheepdog” in English), was developed in the 19th century by M. Adrien Deboucq, a Belgian lawyer who wanted to create an all purpose dog that could function as his guard and herding dog, as well as act as both family companion and show dog. The breed has since become widely accepted across Europe where it is considered an excellent house pet for its even temperament – particularly around children; however they are mostly bred for show or work rather than companionship due to their demanding exercise requirements.
Chihuahua
The Chihuahua, officially known as the “Chihuahueño”, is the smallest breed of dog and is named for the state of Chihuahua in Mexico. They were prized by the Aztecs, who established a religion around them; and today they remain one of the most popular breeds across the world for their small size and even temperament – particularly with children.
English Bulldog
The English bulldog was originally bred to be a ‘gundog’ – typically used in hunting to chase and capture either vermin or wild boar; however today they are mostly kept companions due to their popularity in the show ring. Despite their small size, they are known for having a ‘bulldog’ face – which is known to have the most wrinkles of all dog breeds with over one hundred facial muscles being used when they bark.
French Bulldog
The French bulldog is descended from the English bulldog and shares its origins in early 19th century England where they were bred by butchers around Birmingham before being brought across to France for bull baiting. They are similar to Bulldogs with short muzzles, stocky builds and are considered excellent house pets due to their even-temperaments.
Havanese
The Havanese breed is the national dog of Cuba, and is thought to have descended in antiquity through selective breeding of small Bichon type dogs. They are also known as the Havana Silk Dog because their coat was historically used in silk production – they were also used as circus performers during the prohibition era. The Havanese breed has been recognised by all major kennel clubs around the world and today it remains one of the favorite breeds for first time owners due to its ease of grooming and even temperament.
Labrador Retriever
The Labrador Retriever is a large-sized breed that descends from a type of retriever originally bred on Newfoundland’s coast. They are an extremely popular companion dog thanks to their loving nature and ease of grooming. They are also used as service dogs because of their intelligence, obedience and tolerance to harsh weather conditions.
