Lagotto Romagnolo
Originally mainly around and in the water, the Lagotto Romagnolo is now the most well-known truffle hunting dog. Apart from that, more and more dog lovers appreciate the sporty four-legged friend as a friendly companion dog.
Typical water dog
“Is that a poodle mix?” – every Lagotto owner will probably hear this question from interested laypeople at some point. Because: He already looks a bit similar to his famous relative. However, it has even more visual similarities with two other water dog breeds: the Perro de Agua Español and the Portuguese water dog. In terms of size, the Lagotto stands between the standard poodle and the standard poodle with a shoulder height of 41 to 48 cm and a weight of 11 to 16 kg. It has a strong, sturdy build, an almost square head, hanging ears and a tapered tail just reaching the hock. The colors of the Lagotto are varied, mostly muted natural tones: representatives of the breed are often dirty-white or brown in different variants, also brown moldy or with masks. His curly coat, which is slightly oily due to the original water work, does not shed, but must be clipped regularly.
From water dog to truffle dog
Like all water dogs, the Lagotto Romagnolo was originally a fisherman’s companion. His ancestors lived in Romagna in northern Italy, where they helped hunt in the swamps, guarded the home and boat, and tracked down coots. However, after the swamps were drained in the 19th century, owners of these dogs concentrated primarily on their excellent sense of smell and thus more and more on their use as truffle hunting dogs. As a result, over the years, the Lagotto’s hunting instinct has steadily decreased, as this would only have distracted the four-legged friend from the actual work when searching for truffles. However, the truffle hunters of the 20th century also deliberately crossed in other breeds, from the poodle to the pointer, as it was not about the look, but about the best characteristics for the truffle hunt. Targeted Lagotto-Romagnolo breeding did not begin until the 1970s thanks to dedicated lovers of the breed. Their aim was to breed the original Romagna water dog. Meanwhile, water dogs have gained more notoriety, not least because of the famous Portuguese water dog Bo of US President Barack Obama’s family. But as always, when the demand for certain breeds increases quickly, this also entails risks: Too many breed without sufficient background knowledge and too many interested parties only look at the tousled, rustic look and the incorrectly used term “allergy dog” instead of dealing with the address the needs of the breed.
Smart curly head
The Lagotto Romagnolo is considered a friendly and easy-going dog. He is not aggressive and – depending on the line – has little or no hunting instinct. He forms a close bond with his people: he loves the closeness of his two-legged pack and throws himself enthusiastically into shared adventures. In the house he behaves, as long as he is species-appropriate, mostly quiet. Although he is alert and reports anything unusual, he usually does not tend to bark. A balanced Lagotto adapts well to the everyday life of its two-legged friends – regardless of whether it is a family with children or a quiet senior citizen. The cheerful curly heads quickly inspire with their charm and their cuddly appearance, but they are anything but lap dogs.
Educate the Lagotto
Friendly speech, positive reinforcement and loving consequence that resists the charm of the clever curly dog: This is the best recipe for training a Lagotto Romagnolo. Even beginners can easily teach the four-legged friend basic obedience in this way if they have previously acquired the appropriate know-how. Because a Lagotto likes to fulfill the wishes of his caregivers if the bond is right. A sense of humor helps with all the subtleties of training: Your Lagotto will probably always retain a bit of stubbornness and mischievousness, but as a Lagotto owner you will probably particularly appreciate this. Take your puppy to a dog club’s puppy play session and then to the dog school – you’ll not only get valuable tips about training, but you can also make friends with other dog owners while your four-legged friend enjoys the company of other dogs.
Health of the breed
A dog from a reputable breeder has very little risk of developing a genetic disease. The breeders do the necessary preparatory work by having the parent animals checked for hip and elbow dysplasia and patellar luxation and only using animals with impeccable results in their breeding. The dogs should also be genetically tested for lysosomal storage disease. This is a neurological disease that leads to abnormalities in the brain and nervous system, which are usually fatal. Mixed carriers of this disease remain asymptomatic, but pass on the disposition for the disease. Breeders who want to be on the safe side therefore do without trait carriers. In addition, some lines are affected by an autosomal recessive form of epilepsy, in which the first seizures occur in puppyhood. There is also a genetic test for this disease that can give you certainty – talk to your breeder about it and let them show you the results. A responsible breeder will be happy to answer your questions about health care.
Is a Lagotto Romagnolo right for me?
This cheerful dog suits cheerful people who still don’t take the responsibility and time commitment lightly. Originally a working dog, the Lagotto also needs a lot of time in the great outdoors to let off steam, as well as tasks that pose a challenge to his clever little head. If you can make this possible for him, you have a wonderful companion whether you live alone or with your family and children. If children are still small, you should take particular care to ensure that your Lagotto has opportunities to retreat and teach your offspring to treat animals with respect from an early age. The Lagotto is well suited as a beginner’s dog if the respective “dog newcomers” deal extensively with the topic of dog training before moving in and attend a dog school with them. A Lagotto Romagnolo gets along well with conspecifics and other pets, assuming the appropriate imprinting in puppy and young dog age.
The breed is good for taking with you on vacation – many hotels now accept dogs as guests – find out more before you travel. Hiking holidays in particular are a great opportunity to relax with a Lagotto. But if you are drawn to the sunny Caribbean, leave your four-legged friend in good hands – for example with relatives or friends with dogs whom he already knows.
Is the Lagotto-Romagnolo a dog with allergies?
One often reads or hears that poodles or water dogs like Lagotto and Co. are ideal for allergy sufferers, after all they don’t shed their fur. Unfortunately, this does not make them an “allergy dog” at all, because allergy sufferers do not react to the fur, but to special proteins in the saliva, dander or urine of certain animal species. However, it is possible that some allergy sufferers do not react to some breeds. However, before you let a dog move in to “test” this, you should definitely speak to your doctor beforehand and seek an intensive exchange with a breeder, who will also allow you longer visits.
Large Munsterlander
Elegant and versatile: the Large Munsterlander, who is willing to work, has many things in common with the German Longhaired Pointer, as it was originally a color variant of this breed. Here you can find out what else characterizes the talented hunting dog.
The appearance of the Large Munsterlander
According to the FCI standard, the Large Munsterlander is a strong, muscular dog with a “sleek overall appearance”. Although he has different ancestors, he looks very similar to the Small Munsterlander, but is a few inches taller.
The body is muscular with a straight, short back and a broad chest when viewed from the front. The croup falls off only slightly. The length of the body should correspond to the height of the withers, but may exceed this by two centimetres.
The head is elongated, noble and with a clever look, a black nose and a powerfully long muzzle. The eyes should be as dark as possible.
The Large Munsterlander carries its tail horizontally or slightly upright and without a kink.
In Action has a springy gait and a lively canter that leaves no doubt that this is a dynamic working dog.
Character: The Large Munsterlander is a watchful hunting companion
This four-legged friend not only has many talents, but is also people-oriented and likes to learn new things with his two-legged friend.
Considering that the Munsterlander is a hunting dog, it is a four-legged friend that is easy to train and easy to handle. Because he is smart, affectionate, lively and is considered child-friendly. He is also a good watchdog, reliable at alerting strangers. He’s not aggressive about it.
If he has enough tasks and can pursue his natural hunting needs, he is a balanced and adaptable companion in his “free time”. However, when bored, he is prone to behavior problems such as excessive barking.
For whom is the Large Munsterlander suitable?
Only those who can offer him sufficient exercise, exercise and species-appropriate employment should adopt this hunting dog. Professional hunters or recreational hunters who are very active in hunting and are looking for a versatile dog will hit the mark with the charming pointer.
Is the Large Munsterlander a family dog?
The Large Munsterlander needs family connections at home and is friendly to children. The hunting companion is not a city dog, but feels most comfortable in a house with an escape-proof garden. It is best to give him the opportunity to guard “his” property.
Cats and other small animals should preferably not live in the new home. A meeting with cats can be promising if the Large Munsterlander has already been used to it as a puppy. But always remember: If in doubt, the pointing dog can be dangerous for cats. You should never leave him unattended with small animals such as rabbits and the like.
English and German Pointer
Character: gentle hunter
A busy English Pointer is an all-around personable and smart dog. He is very loyal to his pack and friendly to people and animals. Living together with children or cats is usually very harmonious. The hunter should ideally have already got to know cats and other pets from the breeder. This sensitive dog appreciates cuddling with his loved ones after his adventures in the woods and fields. A hunting led English Pointer can therefore live excellently in a family. Pointers are not very territorial and are not necessarily suitable as watchdogs due to their open nature. This dog likes to conform to your wishes, but is not submissive. Of course, the four-legged friends should live directly in the house and do not belong in a kennel.
Empathetic Education
Basically, the sensitive pointer is easy to train with gentle, consistent training. His nature is obedient and since he is also smart, he quickly understands what you want from him. However, even well-behaved specimens find it difficult to carry out commands when they are in the middle of a hunt – the pointer can sometimes be difficult to retrieve. Do not ask your pointer to do the impossible and always train this dog with great sensitivity: always be consistent when it comes to training, but without wanting to subjugate your companion. Because this dog likes to do what you ask, but wants to be treated as a partner. Also, always keep in mind that successful training can only bear fruit if the four-legged friend can pursue its need to hunt or is otherwise intensively occupied. An underutilized hound will always be “difficult to train” and will seek other channels for its excess energy. Ideally, this dog goes through professional hunting dog training. If you are looking for appropriate trainers for this, make sure that positive motivation is a top priority here. In general, consistency and positive reinforcement are key to the success of pointer training.
Sporty nature lover
You will guess: The favorite pastime of this four-legged friend is hunting – for this he was bred for centuries. Without the opportunity to act out this need, the pointer can hardly be held appropriately. With some specimens you can also employ the great willingness to work of this sporty dog alternatively. Dog sports such as mantrailing or training as a rescue dog can be interesting for the excellent sniffing noses. A pointer should enjoy extensive exercise every day, regardless of the wind and weather. An adult representative of this breed is ideal as a companion for jogging, cycling or horseback riding. The option of being able to romp around in a fenced garden area is also ideal for the active animals. Especially since not every English Pointer can run free.
Robust athlete
English Pointers are hardy dogs that can live up to 14 years of age. If you decide to get a pointer from a reputable breeder, there is a high probability that you will let a four-legged friend move in with you that has the best prerequisites for a long and healthy dog life. It’s a good idea to talk to the breeder about their health care needs – for example, what diseases have they had the parent animals tested for? An assessment of the hips of the parents is always advisable, as hip dysplasia can also occur in English Pointers. The persistent hunter can sometimes react sensitively to cold and moisture and easily catch a cold. Be sure to rub your four-legged friend dry after a trip in rainy weather.
English Pointer Nutrition: Finding the right balance
Nutrition makes a significant contribution to a healthy dog life. Like all other dog breeds, the pointer requires a high-protein pet diet where meat is the primary ingredient—regardless of whether you choose wet or dry food. So make sure meat is first on the ingredients list and avoid foods that contain grains. This dog’s energy requirements are closely related to its workload and the recommended daily allowances given on the packaging are guidelines only. Pointers that are not used for hunting or other dog sports tend to gain weight quickly. So be sure to keep an eye on your four-legged friend’s waistline and adjust their diet accordingly if your pointer gains or loses weight. It is important to give the dog a break after each meal to prevent life-threatening gastric torsion. You should give the adult dog its daily requirement in at least two meals. Dry chews or dental care snacks, for example, are suitable as treats. Make sure your companion always has drinking water freely available.
German Pointer
The German Longhaired Pointer is even-tempered, has a controlled temperament, and should be free from aggression. In hunting practice, he is particularly praised for his exceptional calm. He is easy to train and easy to train. He works extremely thoroughly, but is perhaps a little slower than other pointing dogs. The German Longhaired Pointer should be able to track and have a certain sharpness to predators. These two characteristics, paired with a reliable temperament, are important breeding requirements. In addition, the animals should correspond to the specified type, shape and hair value in order to be approved for breeding. Although the German Longhaired Pointer is bred exclusively for performance and not for beauty, according to the standard, attention should be paid to a noble appearance and a beautiful head. The fur should be of medium length and not too luxuriant. Long and well-fringed ears are desirable and the tail should be marked by a nice flag. Only a few years ago, the following text was added to the standard to underline the suitability and use of the German Longhaired Pointer for hunting:
“According to its hunting purpose as a versatile hunting dog, the German Longhaired Pointer must have all the abilities required of it and be usable for all work in the field, water and forest, performance-related before and after the shot.”
Portuguese Pointer
The Perdigueiro Português is a breed of dog originating from Portugal. She is officially recognized by the FCI and is assigned to Group 7, the Pointers Group, and Section 1, the Continental Pointers Section. In addition, the Perdigueiro Português can be found under the type 1.1, the Braque type, and under the standard number 187 in the FCI register. Also known as the Portuguese chicken dog, Portuguese pointer or Portuguese pointer, this hunting dog, which originated in Portugal, is known for its submissiveness and tenacity when hunting.
Origin and breed history
The Perdigueiro Português has its origins in the Podengo de mostra, a hunting dog from the 14th century. Even the forerunner of the breed showed typical behavior for a pointing dog, which caught the eye when it was used for falconry. The pointing dogs developed from the bird dogs. The Perdigueiros was primarily used for falconry hunting. In the course of this he supported the hunter faithfully and agilely in the hunt for partridges. Because of this purpose, the Portuguese hunting dog also got its name, which is known today. Perdigueiro means partridge. Its nickname “Portuguese chicken dog” also comes from the fact that the pointing dog was used to hunt birds.
Even today, the Portuguese Pointer is still popular as a hunting dog, especially in its country of origin, Portugal. In addition to hunting wild birds, he is increasingly used for rummaging, which is due to his fine nose and attentive nature.
In July 1955 the old breed was officially recognized by the FCI. The last valid standard was defined in 2008 and published around one to two years later. The only exception here is the German breed standard, which was not published until around eight years later. The Perdigueiro Português is considered a working dog by the FCI and is also on the House Dog List.
Essence & character from the Perdigueiro Português
The Portuguese pointer dog is characterized above all by its excellent hunting skills and its high willingness to submit. The devoted hunters have a loyal and selfless nature that is very fond of people. The medium-sized dogs have a clumsy charm, which is reflected above all in contact with other dogs. The Perdigueiro Português gets along well with other dogs, but can sometimes be a bit impetuous. Overall, his demeanor is equal parts calm and alert.
The intelligent dogs are very interested in their surroundings and those around them. They enjoy adventures with their owner and enjoy spending time in nature. The Perdigueiro Português needs a lot of exercise and should also be given enough mental exercise. The correct and early education of the Perdigueiro Português is absolutely necessary, since the Portuguese are considered clingy, but can become pushy and unpleasant if they are not consistent. In order to avoid these behaviors, the Perdigueiro Português should be raised lovingly as a puppy, but with clear rules.
Is the Perdigueiro Português right for me?
The Portuguese Pointer should be owned by someone who shares their dog’s enjoyment of exercise. Due to its high level of performance and its active nature, it needs at least two to three hours of exercise and activity per day. For many owners, this is unmanageable. Anyone who travels a lot or is often out of the house and hardly finds time for various activities with their four-legged friend should definitely not keep a Perdigueiro Português. The pointing dog wants to be kept busy and, in the worst case, tends to have behavioral problems if this workload is denied to him.
The Portuguese Chicken Dog is best suited as a hunting or companion dog. But he can also be kept as a family dog without a doubt. If you are looking for an active and lovable family member, the Perdigueiro is a good choice. Calm and cautious around children, but needs a safe retreat. Keeping a Portuguese Pointer is suitable for both novice and experienced dog owners.
Retriever (Chesapeake Bay)
The Chesapeake Bay Retriever is a recognized breed and belongs to FCI Group 8 Retrievers – Scouting Dogs – Water Dogs. There the Chesapeake Bay Retriever is listed under Section 1, Working Trial Retrievers.
Nature & character of the Chesapeake Bay Retriever
The Chesapeake Bay Retriever turns out to be a real dream for every dog owner. He has a large portion of passion, determination and perseverance. The dogs spread a real joy that is almost contagious. No task is too difficult for him and no undergrowth is too narrow for the four-legged friend. A natural worker, the Chesapeake Bay Retriever is a passionate and useful hunting companion. In addition, he has always been used and valued as a courageous watchdog and protection dog and an extraordinarily talented rescue dog. As a hunting dog, he can put his skills to the test, especially in a water hunt. The Chessie bravely breaks through the ice and even swims in the freezing cold water after the hunted prey – The Chesapeake never gives up. In addition, the pedigree dogs, who are willing to work, are excellently suited as sturgeon dogs and bloodhounds.
At work he is hard and independent, but the Chesapeake is all the more sensitive to his family, because he builds a very close bond with his reference people. The four-legged friend is considered friendly, good-natured and very fond of children – like all retrievers. At the same time, he has a particularly stubborn character. This corresponds to a trait that one would not necessarily attribute to a typical retriever. His original attitude as a pure working dog has enabled him to work independently and, in particular, to make his own decisions. The high level of intelligence and the strong self-confidence of the animals makes him doubt the usefulness of some educational attempts. It sometimes happens that Chesapeake Bay Retrievers very often go their own way and question the ranking between humans and animals. An owner who always recognizes his eagerness to work and entrusts him with his own tasks will nevertheless enjoy this truly lovable breed.
Is the Chesapeake Bay Retriever right for me?
The Chessie suits active families who want to spend a lot of time with the dog and keep it busy. He is very friendly with children, but they need to know how to handle a dog. Seniors and beginners could be overwhelmed with this quite demanding dog breed.
A house in nature with a particularly large garden is ideal for species-appropriate husbandry. However, the property should be well fenced. It would be particularly nice if the dog had a body of water near its territory in which the four-legged friend could cool off. A Chesapeake, on the other hand, is not made for a pure city attitude. Due to its pronounced protective and watchful instincts and the constant impulse to “report” all passing neighbors, there will be some problems in urban areas.
Retriever (Curly Coated)
The Curly-Coated Retriever is believed to be the oldest retriever breed in the world. The large pedigree dog from England has not only retained his primitive appearance and his curly, frizzy hair, but also his retrieving instinct and his passion for water. Even if he is increasingly kept as a family dog today, he still needs a hunting task.
Curly coated retriever character
Lying lazily on the sofa and watching your master or mistress at work? This is not for a curly-coated retriever. The curly-haired retriever, who can look back on around 400 years of history as a hunting dog as well as a protection and guard dog in his native England, needs meaningful activity to feel comfortable. Whether retrieving or bushing, welding, herding sheep, pulling dog sleds, rescue work or dummy training – thanks to its versatile abilities, the Curly feels at home in many areas of application. The main thing is that there is something to do!
Workaholic outside, meek at home
But is such a willing and spirited dog also suitable as a family and companion dog? Families who accept his desire to work, his hunting instinct and his need for protection and who offer him appropriate employment will certainly find him to be a friendly, loyal and affectionate partner. Sufficiently busy, the Curly-Coated Retriever is gentle and extremely affectionate at home. He loves playing with children and tirelessly makes sure that all family members stay together on walks together. However, unlike his close relatives, the Golden Retriever and Labrador, he will not go out of his way to please his humans. Although he is extremely sensitive and reacts sensitively to the moods of his family, his independence and intelligence allow him to go his own way from time to time.
Parenting requires patience, sensitivity, and humor
The Curly is also much more reserved towards strangers than, for example, the Labrador Retriever. His innate protective instinct should not be underestimated and requires early socialization and consistent training. After all, more than a hundred years ago it was not only used as a hunting dog, but also to protect against poachers and to guard houses and farms. But not only the certain sharpness of man, his intelligence and his stubbornness, but also the fact that Curly Coats are so-called late developers, require a lot of patience and sensitivity in training. With their initial playfulness, their impetuous nature and their youthful temperament, they sometimes push dog beginners to their limits. Curlys should therefore only be in the hands of experienced dog owners who appreciate the special characteristics of this retriever breed and who have enough humor to accept with a wink the little tricks that Curlys use to achieve their own advantage.
Retriever (Flat Coated)
The Flat-Coated Retriever used to be one of the most popular retrievers in England and was also highly prized by English nobility due to their elegant looks. Today, the medium-sized retriever with the sleek coat is a friendly family dog who still has a willingness to work and temperament.
Temperament
It never gets boring with a flat-coated retriever. Because this retriever breed has a variety of skills that make them ideal for numerous tasks and activities. His will to retrieve and his love of water combined with a pronounced “will to please”, a high willingness to learn and quick perception make him not only an excellent hunting companion for small game and duck hunting, but also a talented dog sportsman and an excellent avalanche rescuer – and medical dog.
Ideal family dog for active people
The Flat-Coated Retriever loves almost any form of activity and likes to learn new things. As a pure family dog that spends more time on its owner’s “lap” than outside in nature, it is therefore not suitable. But those who accept and encourage their willingness to exercise and be busy will experience them as an excellent family dog, which is characterized by a balanced and adaptable nature. His child-loving nature, his playful nature and his high philanthropy make him a pleasant and uncomplicated companion for active families who have the desire and time to spend time with their dog.
Easy to handle, sensitive and spirited
Even beginners will have few problems with his affectionate nature and his easy-going character. However, one should not underestimate his slightly exuberant temperament, especially at a young age. But with patience and consistency, the Flat-Coated quickly learns what is required of him. However, the sensitive dog reacts very sensitively and disturbed to harshness or even violence. A kennel is also out of the question for the human-related four-legged friend. The Flat-Coated Retriever prefers to be near their family at all times and feels happiest when all family members are together and doing things together. By the way, if you are looking for a protection or guard dog for your family, the Flat-Coated Retriever is ill-advised. Because the lovable retriever greets everyone with a friendly wag of his tail – whether it’s a friend, neighbor, postman or even a burglar.
Retriever (Golden)
The Golden Retriever is a harmoniously built, well-proportioned, medium-sized dog with strong bones. The well-formed skull with a pronounced stop and the dark eyes give it an endearing, gentle expression. The eyelids and nose are well pigmented, which further emphasizes the golden retriever’s friendly expression.
The Golden Retriever has a medium-length coat with a straight or wavy top coat and a thick, water-resistant undercoat. It has well-marked feathering on the front legs and tail. The color is standard in every shade between cream and dark gold.
The Golden Retriever is medium sized; adult bitches weigh between 30 and 36 kg with a shoulder height of 51 to 56 cm, adult males weigh between 34 and 40 kg with a shoulder height of 56 and 61 cm.
Temperament
The Golden Retriever has an even temperament; he is not hectic or nervous, but also not too calm or even lethargic, but he is lively and happy and adapts to all everyday situations with a lot of composure and fearlessness. He is enthusiastic about many “occupations”, is very active and often playful even as an old dog. The Golden Retriever impresses with its pronounced will to obedience (“will to please”) and its easy handling. He is very affectionate and loves to take part in all the activities of his “human pack”. The more he is integrated into family life, the more he joins “his” people and likes to fit in and subordinate himself.
Retriever (Labrador)
Easy to handle, people-friendly and resilient: the medium-sized Labrador Retriever is extremely popular as a family dog. As an original working dog, he also wants to be challenged physically and mentally.
Temperament: Patient and balanced
Labradors love their people, especially children, more than anything. They like to be part of everything and don’t like to be alone for too long. At the side of their caregivers, retrievers are particularly characterized by their patient and balanced nature.
With their calm demeanor and unshakable friendliness, they contribute significantly to the harmony within the family. However, getting a Labrador just for this reason would certainly not do this pedigree dog justice.
Originally bred as a hunting dog, the retriever is still a very active and work-loving dog. He is not only characterized by a good nose and enormous endurance, but also by a pronounced love of water and a pronounced joy in retrieving.
In addition to its most popular role as a family dog, the versatile Labrador Retriever is often found as a guide dog, rescue and avalanche search dog and as a police and customs sniffer dog.
In order to make a Labrador happy, his drive to work and be busy should always be taken into account. As an owner, you will quickly notice how much more responsive and balanced the Labrador can be if he is mentally and physically stimulated.
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