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THE BUYER’S GUIDE

The Society for Canine Genetic Health and Ethics

www.koiranjalostus.fi Foreword

The main purpose of the A dog is a living creature We hope you will find this guidebook is to provide and no one can guarantee that guide useful in purchasing help for anyone planning your dog will be healthy and your dog! the purchase of his or her flawless. Still, it pays to choose first dog. However, it can be a who does his best useful for anyone planning to guarantee it. We hope this to get a dog. Our aim is to guide will help you to actively help you and your family to and critically find and process choose a dog that best suits information about the health, your needs and purposes. characteristics and behaviour of the or litter of your Several seem to be choice. plagued with health and character problems. The This guide has been created, Finnish Society for Canine written and constructed by Genetic Health and Ethics the members of the HETI (HETI) aims to influence society: Hanna Bragge, Päivi by means of Jokinen, Anitta Kainulainen, information education. Our Inkeri Kangasvuo, Susanna aim is to see more Kangasvuo, Tiina Karlström, born to this world free of Pertti Kellomäki, Sara genetic disorders that would Kolehmainen, Saija Lampinen, deteriorate their quality of life Virpi Leinonen, Helena or life-long stress caused by, Leppäkoski, Anna-Elisa for example, defects in the Liinamo, Mirve Liius, Eira . Malmstén, Erkki Mäkelä, Katariina Mäki, Anna Niiranen, The demand of puppies is Tiina Notko, Riitta Pesonen, one of the most important Meri Pisto­koski, Maija factors that guides the dog Päivärinta, Johanna Rissanen, breeding. You can have your Katariina Roiha, Tiia Rönnberg, say in how things are done Mia Salmi, Paula Similä, Jenni by buying your dog from a Toivoniemi and Minna Virta. responsible breeder who will We would also like to have the ’ physical health express our gratitude to all the and character inspected before persons who have given their using them for breeding and photographs for our use! will have a proof of it to show you in writing. About to get a dog?

For what purpose are you planning to get a dog? What have you got to offer to your dog?

Stop and think. Talk it purpose. Even individual dogs How important is it through with your family. of the same breed can have that a dog is easy to care? Ask your children. very different characteristics. Some dogs are a dream come true to a handyman or Not every dog can get along How important is woman. On the other hand, in the or built-up suburb. the dog’s health? if you want to stay as far And no dog likes being alone. Dogs can carry various as possible from washing, Every dog needs proper qualities created by breeding trimming and grooming, it is attention and medical care. concerning their appearance wiser to get a dog that needs All dogs need some exercise or that can just an occasional combing and stimulation; some dogs increase the possibility and a wash every now an need a lot of that. Dogs always of various health-related then, as well as regular nail cause trouble and cost money. problems. Also, each breed cutting, to stay neat and clean. They cause wear and tear to has certain inherited health home and garden. All dogs problems that they are How important is extract and scurf that can vulnerable to. the dog’s appearance? cause allergic reactions. Some We live in a world that is breeds drool significantly. How important is obsessed with looks. Children Almost all dogs , some the dog’s long lifetime? often choose a dog by looking bark a lot. Some breeds have very high at pictures in a book. Think average lifetime, while others carefully how much are you Dog is a very social animal can be surprisingly short-lived. really willing to compromise that likes to live in packs, its with other qualities for a dog pack being us humans. You How important are that looks just like the one have to take your dog into certain working qualities? you want. account in every activity you Certain breeds are created for plan for yourselves. hunting or other specific tasks Remember that as a grown-up for which they have been bred you are always responsible Choosing a dog is choosing for decades. If you do not for the family dog. Even a a companion for life. You want to be actively involved teenager is not capable of have to decide what you in any activities typical for this being really committed to want from your dog. kind of breed, it is easier to caring the dog, it get a dog with no such needs regularly etc. Also, a child How important to you and inclinations. It is also must not be responsible for is the dog’s character? fair towards the dog itself. choosing the dog, other What kind of partner are you An active-craving dog is not than as a member of the looking for: happy, intelligent, necessarily a happy with an family. Because parents are calm, active, restrained or in-town . responsible for the proper care bold? Different breeds have of the dog they must also be different characteristics responsible for choosing it. depending on their original

The cost of owning a dog

The most expensive pup vendors offering all kinds of Depending on the breed, is not necessarily the items your dog really does there can also be various healthiest one. But the not need. Some of these recurring costs, like trimming. purchase price should not items can be downright Consult the dog’s breeder or be the major issue when harmful to your dog. Dogs seller for these. choosing a pup. The price do not need design clothes Also, leaving the dog to a of the is just a or jewellery, nail polish or boarding kennel for holidays fraction of the owner’s total chewing products with peppy can be expensive. You cannot cost of dog keeping. colours created using artificial always count on having friends colouring agents. However, or relatives care for the dog. A dog needs bowls for food some breeds do need clothes The prices can vary but it is and water, collar and / or for the wintertime if you live not uncommon to have to harness and a leash as well in a cold climate. In that case, pay several hundreds of euros as nail cutters and coat care appropriate clothing is always per dog. For example, for a equipment according to the worth every penny. two-week holiday you should needs of the breed. The first A dog can also wreak havoc add a boarding kennel bill for sleeping place can be for that may cause unexpected 15 to 16 days, which can raise example a lined cardboard box expenses. It can chew off a the cost of the journey by two because the puppy will most purse with all its contents, or three hundred euros. There probably chew it up anyway. destroy library books, puncture can be different needs like this You can make toys yourself or a hole in a waterbed, dig a up to several time each year, buy them. When purchasing tunnel in the neighbour’s back which means this is another toys, the most important thing yard or do something even expense you must take into is that the dog cannot chew more spectacular. The owner account beforehand. off any dangerous small parts must pay for any damage A dog will also cause and possibly swallow them. the dog causes. It really pays certain recurring costs such That’s why the cheapest plastic to have a good insurance as vaccination, deworming, toys are not a good choice. coverage. possibly taxes and, of For car transportation, the Insurance companies might course, feeding. Depending dog will need a safety harness sell various dog-related on the size of the dog, or transportation booth. You insurances, which should feeding and deworming can also make the luggage be calculated into the fixed can be a significant cost. compartment of the car safe expenses of dog ownership. There are several ways to for dogs by sealing it off with It is good to have at least some feed a dog, each having a net. kind of basic coverage for the their own supporters. The dog in case of damages or most promoted one is not When buying all these accidents. Before purchasing necessarily the best: learn necessary items, keep in mind the insurance, compare how to read the product that creating artificial needs and consider carefully the descriptions and choose for dogs is a big business various offerings by different products that have meat as nowadays. There are countless companies. main ingredient and that

do not include pigments or amount of food that is right food additives. Get as much for your dog. However, it’s information as possible about good to be critical. Remember, the different possibilities of the breeder is just one dog feeding. Currently there source of information and is a considerable collection not every breeder is aware of literature available on the of all the latest information. subject. Therefore, you must pay If all goes well you’ll only attention to choosing a need a for breeder. A well-educated vaccination and identification breeder does not consider tagging. However, in most your flood of questions cases you will not get away inappropriate criticism. Instead, quite so easily. You’ll probably you should get informative need a veterinarian several and enthusiastic answers to times in the first year of whatever you might ask. And ownership alone. A careless any breeder interested in the pup can step into shattered welfare of their pups will also glass, eat rat poison, get ask you many questions before into a fight or get any disease deciding whether to sell you or injury nobody could even any dog. think about. It can also be Often the dog’s last, terminal diagnosed with an illness illness will also be the most requiring constant medication. expensive of them all with all are not cheap. the diagnosis and treatment In case of surgery, the bill can costs. Usually, a veterinarian amount to hundreds, even can say when it is time to let thousands of euros. You must the dog go. The last payments have the money at hand when for the dog will be euthanasia, the disaster strikes. Of course that is, putting it out and you can get an insurance possible incineration. The coverage for diseases but they owner should not prolong the usually do not cover everything death of the beloved dog for and in any case, the own risk any selfish reasons. A duty of excess can be significant. man toward his dog is to let Pay special attention to the it take its last journey the best breeder’s instructions about possible way, with dignity. proper feeding and other care. usually are very experienced and capable of recommending the kind and The Finnish Programme to combat hereditary diseases and defects (PEVISA)

In association with breed exaggerations of certain practise. The can clubs, the Finnish Kennel breeds and various genetic only take actions in the most Club has created a or partially genetic disorders, extreme occurrences by Programme to combat including autoimmune banning the breeder from hereditary diseases disorders, as well registering dogs. and defects (PEVISA) as severe growth disorders (Perinnöllisten sairauksien ja or degeneration of the bone vikojen vastustamisohjelma). structure. A breed club can at will participate the program With PEVISA, it is also for the disorders that are possible to set rules for typical to its breed. For any maintaining breed taking part in the of the breed by limiting the program, it is required that number of offspring that all dogs used for breeding are being registered for must have a certificate an individual dog. PEVISA that they have been tested is mandatory for every for certain genetic defects reproducing dog of the breed, and / or disorders in order to although it is possible to get have their pups registered a special waiver if the breed by the Finnish Kennel club sees fit. Club. For some breeds, a certificate alone is not In addition to the PEVISA enough. The certificate program, a breeder can must show that the dog commit to even stricter does not exceed certain breeding guidelines by signing level of the defect the breeder’s commitment or disorder. crafted by the Finnish Kennel Club. The breeder’s The most common qualities commitment also offers checked within the PEVISA financial benefits to a breeder program are hip and elbow because signing it makes the dysplasia and various eye breeder eligible to a discount disorders. However, there in registration fees for pups. are several other disorders By signing the breeder’s deserving more efficient commitment, a breeder is collection of data. The obliged to aim for good health program also excludes and character in his / her litters. many common and serious However, disorders and problems cannot control whether the such as conformational commitment is fulfilled in Do not buy an unregistered dog

The Finnish Kennel Club will or ER registers because they In , breeders who register a litter if it is born are not compliant with the produce their litter in in Finland and the breeder Kennel Club’s requirements inappropriate or even illegal is resident in Finland. for appropriate breeding: conditions (so called pup In addition to that, the the litters are produced too factories) have been a disgrace parents must meet the frequently by one dam or of the kennel scene for registering conditions. the parents do not have the decades. This maximizing of The dog registers have required health certificates. productivity in the expense of prefixes FIN and ER. There Some breeders do not want all quality and well-being of is also a register for dogs to register puppies that the animals is in some cases that cannot be used for apparently will not grow up known to be used even to breeding. The prefix for to be compliant with the produce mixed-breed litters. this register is EJ. , such as The fancy moniker is “designer puppies with wrong colours. dogs” when in fact they are Not being registered is not just common mixed-breeds necessarily a bad sign in a It is not too expensive or . Especially dog. It can be e.g. a crossbred to register a pup. Always certain breeders or mixed-breed dog or it can demand to have a registration have appeared in the news as be a member of a peasant certificate for a purebred suspects of negligence and population. For example, a dog, even if it is of wrong cruelty to animals. The dogs majority of Jack Russell colour, curved tail, only one these factories produce can are unregistered. The breed or other defects. In be inbred and genetically very has an open register, which Finland, this kind of dog can ill. They can keep bitches in means an unregistered dog be registered to special registry cages for their whole lives can later be registered in ER for dogs that will not be used just producing litter after register if the owner wants for breeding. Thus any defects litter. These breeders can even to. Before registering, the dog that can prevent the dog from issue a fake or counterfeit must be examined and found being used for breeding are no “registration” with the pup. breed-like by two show judges. reason not to register it. Always demand a However, sometimes a Unregistered dogs can also registration by the official purebred dog not being be imported. It is much harder Kennel Club. Be critical. registered can be a sign of to evaluate breed-specific Visit the breeder. If you something being wrong with qualities of a pup than a don’t like what you see, do the breeder. If you’re not grown-up dog. A paperless not support the action. absolutely sure you know what dog bought from abroad can Do not buy the dog. you are doing, do not buy an turn out to be something unregistered purebred dog. completely different that it Never buy a pup in a shop was sold for. window or in a market square. Some litters cannot be Even in some so called civilised registered in the official FIN countries you can see puppies in unpleasant, crowded and hot premises in a market square or in a shop window. You will not remove the animal protection problem by buying a dog like that. In fact, by creating demand for this kind of business you can make the situation even worse.

Dogs can also be smuggled into the country. Illegally imported dogs are sold in the newspaper ads and on the Internet. The pup is brought to an agreed location or it is showed in an apartment where the dam is not present. Do not agree to this kind of meeting. Make every effort to meet the dog’s parents, at least the dam, both outdoors and indoors. If you suspect any foul play, withdraw from the situation and notify the animal protection authorities. The smuggled pups are often kept in very questionable conditions, sometimes downright illegal. Also, smugglers seldom sell what they promise to sell. Also, smuggled dogs can carry parasites and diseases such as or echinococcus that would cause a disaster if they appeared in Finnish animals. These deadly diseases can infect also people. For these same reasons, never try smuggling any animals to Finland. Dog or bitch?

Like humans, dogs have than a female. Female dogs A female dog cannot be two sexes, both equally are more flexible towards used for breeding until it is important but nevertheless humans. Walking a male dog fully grown up. Depending in many ways different. can be rather intermittent on the breed, a dog will be exercise due to all the grown-up at the age of 2 to 3 A female dog comes into smelling and territory-marking years but for many breeds, full season approximately every operations. A female dog will adulthood is not reached until 6 to 12 months. Its life is empty its bladder in one stop. after 3 years of age. A male’s cycles of preparing for the breeding value rises with years: season, being in season and Different breeds can have a dog that is healthy and virile having the aftermath of very different social behaviour even after ten years of age is season, sometimes meaning and ability to get along with a living proof of its health and false pregnancy. The hormonal other dogs. You will have to vitality. Dogs like this should changes related to estrus check the breeder on this be offered to breed clubs for cycle can be seen in the issue. If there are other dogs breeding in case this gramps dog’s behaviour, appetite and in the neighbourhood you has been forgotten by them. condition of the coat as well should consider a few issues as social conduct. Between the when choosing the sex of your periods of season and false own dog. A male and female pregnancies there are periods dog usually get along together when the bitch does not quite fine but must be kept produce any gender hormones. separate when the female Depending on the estrus cycle is in season, unless either or of the bitch, this period will both of the dogs are sterilized last 2 to 6 months. or castrated. Usually, female dogs get along better as a A male dog has no own pack than male ones. However, estrus cycle but will be depending on the dog, periods influenced by the scents of any of season can cause tension in nearby bitches. A male dog the pack’s internal chemistry. can be very sensitive to the scent and can suffer strong A male dog is more attracts of heartbreak quite commonly purchased by unexpectedly. simply buying it. For a female A male dog is usually pup, a breeder might often considered easier to offer a special placement understand and more agreement that can be hard to straightforward, whereas a comprehend beforehand. In female dog is considered more any dispute, the person who complicated by nature. A male actually owns the dog has the is usually bigger and stronger upper hand. All breeds have their share of problems

For different breeds, For some breeds, an breeding selections are exaggerated conformation done on different criteria. is desired by breeders and Unfortunately, sometimes buyers, which can cause the criteria prefer show considerable problems with success at the expense of the dog’s well-being. Problems health, character or working can be caused by too short qualities. Especially health muzzle, dome-shaped skull, is a common issue these unproportionally big or small days but unfortunately any eyeballs, too loose or tight concrete and systematical eyelids, excessive skinfolds, breeding action regarding too big or too small size, it, as well as candid excess weight, too straight discussion over the subject, or too angulated limbs, very are are still way too rare short or very long back, short phenomena for some limbs or deep chest. Find out breeders. the characteristics of different breeds by for example asking You should be very careful your national kennel club or when choosing the breed visiting various breed-specific as well as an individual dog. websites. Also, consult a Purebred dogs have many veterinarian prior to making genetic diseases. Some of the decision. them have also issues related to a breed-typical appearance or, more likely exaggerations of it. Also, the character and conduct of some breeds can be less than ideal.

In Finland, it is forbidden by law to breed animals in a way that can cause suffering for the animal or considerable damage to its health or well-being. The Resolution on the Breeding of Animals by the Council of from 1995 states the same, even mentioning a few breeds by name. Choosing a breed that best suits you and your family

Once a breed has established original purpose it has been you make the arrangements itself in Finland and has been developed for. Ask the breeder well in advance. You can also approved as a registered about situations that can meet other enthusiasts of breed it starts to appear in appear and cause problems. the breed anywhere: on the dog shows. Dogs attending In a , you can for jogging path, in local dog shows quickly settle into example see dogs originally club’s happenings and on the same uniform mold in their bred to fight or bears Internet. A proper background appearance. Breeding of or chase after game and kill work minimizes the risk of show dogs is guided by their it. You can see rat-hunting failure. appearance whereas for dogs, war dogs, fighting dogs working dogs it is guided as well as dogs bred to attack by the qualities required by humans, to independently the task they are meant for. chase down game or to keep A might look cattle under control. “rustic” when compared to a of the same You might come face-to face In the next chapters, we breed. Very often, these two with this original purpose will introduce a few types have been separated into two for example when your dog of dogs and groups of different lines within the same disappears into the woods breeds. For additional breed. for hours to chase animals information, consult your and leaves you sitting on a local kennel club and other Because of this appearance- tree trunk helplessly. Dogs organisations related to oriented breeding, it is easy and humans get along the the breed, as well as for to consider all dogs attending best when a dog is allowed example veterinarians. shows as companion dogs. to act according to its natural Often they are also advertised instincts and behavioural as such. Generations of patterns and work the way it separation from their original was bred to work use has maybe diluted their qualities as working dogs but When comparing the usually not enough for them candidate breeds, it is not to surface from time to important to see as many time. When a dog has been individuals of each breed as purchased as a pet, a lot of possible. It would be best to unpleasant – and sometimes do this under normal, everyday pleasant moments can occur circumstances so that you when the original nature of the can get as wide picture of the dog suddenly appears. breed as possible. Responsible breeders will let you get When choosing a breed of acquainted with their dogs dog, always consider the and their kennel as long as Arctic and primitive -type hunting dogs

Hunting dogs have been developed under circumstances where breeding selection has been done by working qualities alone. By appearance and character they are very proportionate, with no exaggerated features. Typically, they descend from natural populations with no crossbreeding. These breeds have been used for hunting for centuries. The specific tasks have been numerous: barking to point the game or chasing it out in the open, finding the nests and chasing the game for the hunter to shoot and everything in between. it can be totally deaf to its Most spitz-type hunting The smallest hunting spitz owner’s calls. Sometimes the breeds are independent, breeds are used primarily hunting instinct is so strong even stubborn, by nature. for hunting animals and no command can get the dog On the other hand, they can birds, larger breeds hunt big out of the woods. You will just be very cooperative with one game such as bear, , have to wait for it to come master and extremely loyal to bobcat or wild boar. back on its own. This could their own family. Being a bit well be the next day. restraint towards strangers is Arctic spitz-type hunting A game-rich environment quite common: anyone not breeds are not usually bought can make a a familiar will usually be frowned to be companion dogs; they very errant performer when it upon for a long time. Due to are primarily used for leisure comes to obedience. Especially their original purpose, these hunting. Spitz-type hunting so if it has not been properly breeds are very self-confident dogs place different demands trained for being off the leash. and fearless. They are also very for their owners. Most notably, A dog on the hunt can hurt territorial, which makes them their drive to hunt, often the endangered animals or itself or excellent guard dogs. most dominating feature of even cause a traffic accident. These breeds were not used the dog, can be an issue. A Keeping dogs off the leash is for hunting in a group. They hunting dog on a mission not recommended even for work best alone with a hunter, can be so overwhelmed by the breeds that are no longer at most with one suitable the hunting experience that actively used for hunting. canine partner. For this reason these loners have no built-in capability to get along with other dogs. Even a thorough socializing cannot guarantee problem-free coexistence. This is especially true for certain breeds and more commonly for male dogs. However, each individual dog can be different in this . So bear in mind that these dogs are not necessarily well suited for a large group. Spitz-type hunting dogs are usually considered very demanding and challenging by nature. They usually are neither too eager to please nor particularly helpful. However, they are intelligent creatures, so with right kind of muscle system, the owner related issues over external training they can be made very must ensure the dog has appearance. Depending on obedient. On the other hand, regularly sufficient amount or the breed, the most typical they can very easily get bored running free in a safe area, health-related problems include of the repetitions of obedience preferably fenced enclosure. eye problems, exercises. Breeds that also If you cannot let the dog run (displaced kneecap) and hip bring the game back to the free, you can take it for a run dysplasia. Coat is natural and owner are usually slightly more with a bicycle, for example. unrefined that usually needs no obedient and eager to please. One way to activate the dog’s special care. When trained thoroughly and hunting characteristics when patiently by a skilful owner, hunting for real game is not this kind of dog will be a an option is problem-solving, Typical spitz-type hunting loyal, pleasant and long-living like searching for hidden breeds include the Norwegian companion. treats. Elkhound, , Active and lively dogs, such All spitz-type hunting Jämthund, , East as hunting dogs, require lots breeds are basically healthy and West Siberian Laikas and of exercise and activation to and long living, due to their . In recent satisfy their need for action. To unexaggerated, natural years breeds like the , ensure healthy and balanced conformation and working- Shiba and have gained development of the dog’s oriented breeding that popularity as companion motor co-ordination and tends to emphasize health- dogs. Herding dogs

Herding dogs is a big group Many current multipurpose children or other people. of different breeds and working dog breeds, like Ger- These are issues you have to breed varieties whose man Shepherd, are originally pay special attention to when original function has been herding dogs. teaching the dog everyday help people herd domestic Different breeds have manners. animals. Dog keeps animals different herding styles. Herding dogs are typically together in a herd and Australian Kelpies try to get very quick to learn and keeps them moving in the in front of the herd to stop attached to a herd and it is right direction. Breeds it, whereas an Australian inherent for them to work belonging to this group Cattle Dog prefers to herd together with their owner. can be found around the animals from the back. Moving Many breeds can be a bit globe. Local populations animals is based on utilizing reserved in the way they have been developed into their flight zone, but different take to strange people and different breeds according breeds use different, although – depending on the breed – to the conditions and often overlapping, methods. they can have characteristics working requirements of Border , for example, for a . their home regions. use “the eye”, that is, they Herding breeds typically steer the herd with their gaze. are quick to learn and bond Some herding breeds can work ’s herding strongly with their family. It with all kinds of domestic is based more on the dog’s is natural for them to work animals, others have body movement and Australian with their owner. Many breeds structure and working qualities cattle dogs make the animals in this group may take a that suit especially certain spe- move by nipping at their heels. somewhat reserved attitude cies. Some herding breeds are The herding behaviour can towards strange people and still well represented as actual come up also in undesired they may also have some working dogs – Border Collies, ways: when it gets excited, a guarding potential. for example – while others dog may start chasing people Some herding breeds are have turned almost exclusively or cars or even – in case of more sensitive to sudden loud companion dogs like, such breeds using nipping the heels noises or noisy environments as rough and smooth Collies. in herding – nipping playing than average dogs. It may not be possible to reduce this feature by training later in life, so only opportunity to influence this may be that the dog is accustomed to different sounds in a non-stressful way when it is young. Many herding breeds have good memory, especially when it comes to unpleasant things, because it has been important for them to learn things quickly and precisely. Dogs in this group are typically energetic and they demand a lot of exercise and brainwork to be happy. Their character and conformation a corded coat that can reach has been bred to endure long to the ground. Most have a periods of intensive work. coat that is quite easy to care. Many breeds are versatile Disorders in herding dogs are hobby- and competing dogs breed-specific. These include and suitable for working dog joint and bone problems, eye sport. Breeds that are bred diseases, allergies, epilepsy and for working purposes such as cryptorchidism. protection work, demand their Any illnesses shepherd dogs owners to be properly familiar might have are very much with training and possibly also breed-related. These include to be able to offer even more problems with joints or bone physical and mental activity show lines. You may not even structure, eye problems, than other herding dogs need. be able to buy a working line allergies, epilepsy and testicle Hunting instincts are typically dog if you will not use their deficiencies. not very strong in herding capabilities in real work or in breeds, but they will usually high level of sport. Herding breeds include, also readily run a short The appearance of herding for example, the Border distance after prey if it takes breeds varies from prick-eared , Australian Cattle off right under their noses. and short-legged Welsh Dog, , In some breeds, like German Corgi to high-legged and Australian Shepherd, Belgian Shepherds and Border Collies, drop-eared and Sheepdogs, there has developed a strong from short-coated Dutch Dogs, , German split between working and Shepherd to Puli, which has Shepherd, Collies and Pumi. Nordic herding breeds

The Nordic herding breeds cannot be satisfied with short a good training. Without a were originally developed daily outings and watching TV determinate human guidance, from dogs that had been with the owner. A more active these dogs can develop used for herding , dog needs an owner who behavioural problems, like , , cattle not only enjoys and chasing or trying to stop or goats. In addition to outdoor life in general but also moving items, aggression herding, being a guard is willing to be involved in the towards other dogs, noisiness dog has usually been a part training of the dog. caused by exaggerated natural of their job description. With a Nordic herding barking tendency or running Currently, most of these dog, you can take part in away due to hunting instinct dogs are companion dogs obedience test, agility, rescue or other reasons. They can or dogs kept for hobby dog activities, herding and also be slightly too eager and but some are still used working dog sports as well noisy when guarding their as working dogs in their as attend dog shows. In own territory. Some of these original purposes. addition to sufficient physical characteristics are caused by activity, a lively dog will require genetic factors, so potential Nordic herding dogs like to be also enough brainwork, like buyers should try to find their with and work together with learning new tricks and skills, dog in bloodlines with the people. Some of them have a using its nose or balancing most desired combination of coat that would enable them exercises. features. to be kept outdoors, but they Nordic herding breeds are These breeds have coat usually prefer to be indoors usually very adaptive. This does that is suited for the arctic with their human master. not mean they do not need climate. It is composed of For a family with children, these breeds are usually a good choice and when trained, they are smart and quick to learn. The Nordic herding breeds are more independent than most other herding breeds. When kept free outdoors they will not stay within a touching distance of people, instead taking an occasion spin a bit further, disappearing from the sight of their human master. With these breeds, the activity of an individual dog can vary a lot even within the same breed. For some dogs, their hunger for activities coarse outer coat and softer, thicker undercoat. Both the quality and thickness of the coat can vary between breeds and individual dogs. Possibly due to the coat, many of the Nordic breeds prefer cooler weather, being more sedate and not quire so lively in the warm summer months. During – twice a year – the dog must be brushed several times per week. If the dog is an eager swimmer, the thick coat can cause skin in the summer if the coat is not allowed to dry thoroughly before getting it wet again. The Nordic herding breeds are usually long living; it is not uncommon for an individual dog to reach over 15 years of Nordic herding breeds age. The health situation for include the Finnish these breeds is not worrying as Lapphund, Lapponian a whole but they are known Herder, , to have eye disorders, hip , Icelandic and , luxating Sheepdog and Norwegian patella (displaced kneecap), Buhund. epilepsy, , testicle problems, allergies and autoimmunity. How common each health problem actually is will be breed- specific. Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA) has grown to be a problem with Swedish Lapphund but fortunately the most common form of the disorder can now be diagnosed by a test.

Sled dogs

Purebred sled dogs come light or heavy and the only weather and time off. A good from indigenous arctic sled demand has been to do it way of offering exercise in the and load-hauling dogs. They properly. For this reason many summer is letting them run can be described as being to sled dogs seem to lack the free (always within enclosure). some extent “primitive” and urge to please that so many Sled dogs are adapted to cold independent creatures. other breeds show. They are climate and they have a very passionate about their work noticeable moulting, especially By choosing a , you and they will pull also when in the springtime. usually also choose sled dog on a leash. This is characteristic Some sled dog breeds – most racing as a hobby, even a long behaviour that will be hard notably Siberian – are lasting way of life. It takes to overcome even by training. very visibly divided to show more than one dog to make After all, the dog is only doing and working lines of breeding. a sled team and before you what it has been created to Show dogs are typically know, you will have several do. By nature, they have a very heavier and more robust by dogs at your backyard and strong urge to pull and this is conformation and have shorter you’ll need to build several often apparent even with dogs legs than working dogs. Also, doghouses as well as a solid bred not for working but for usually their coat is thicker and enclosure for them. If the show purposes. longer and more emphasis thought of having several dogs Active sled dogs need lots of is placed on the colour is impossible for you, do not exercise. Just normal walking patterns of their coat than choose a sled dog. All sled and outing is not enough to with working dogs. In Finland, dogs like to live in a pack and satisfy their need for physical most Siberian are of they prosper in the company of activity. Left idle, the dogs very working lineage. their fellow creatures. easily become frustrated and Depending on the breed, sled Since the ancient times, the wreak havoc, especially if kept dogs have different genetic sole purpose of sled dogs has indoors. In the summertime, diseases (disorders). Alaskan been pulling a sled, either sled dogs enjoy the warm Malamutes and Samoyed Dogs often have hip and elbow dysplasia, which is unknown to Siberian Huskies. Eye disorders, like and sometimes glaucoma, appear occasionally with every sled . Other than that, the sled dogs generally have no serious genetic disorders that would shorten their life. However, it is possible that insulated occurrences of such will appear with any breed. Sled dogs usually live a long life, 13 to 15 years is not uncommon. The age of an individual dog is naturally influenced by the dog’s genetic background, care and the amount of work it does during its life. A fit, slim dog usually lives longer than overweight one. Retired sled dogs usually make good companion dogs and seem not to miss their team and dogsledding days too much.

The most typical and original sled dogs are arctic spitz-type breeds such as the , , and . Other traditional sled dog breeds include Alaskan Huskies (unofficial breed), Indian and Inuit dogs as well as various crossbreeds developed for the purpose.

Terriers

There are 35 breeds suitable for working dog sport. For breeds with soft coat, the in Finland, which means Other activities that fit terriers hair care is especially important. there is a large variety of include test to which The coat must be kept tangle- dog types. Most terriers all terrier breeds are eligible free and clean, which can be have originally been bred to for test and competition in difficult especially at times the hunt game or pests. Some Finland and, depending on the coat quality changes (happens used to have more varied breed, cave tests. For many several times in the dog’s duties, including various breeds, dog shows, obedience lifetime) and in bad weather. general farm dog tasks such tests and, especially suitable The soft-haired coat absorbs as guarding the premise for many quick and agile dirt and particles and after a and keeping company to terrier breeds, agility. Even the long run in the woods you humans. Today, the vast smaller terrier breeds often might feel like you have half of majority of terriers are require more activities than the twigs of the forest in your kept as a companion for just the regular walking on living room. Any responsible different pastime activities, the leash. breeder will provide guidance but some may still be used Most terrier breeds have about washing, combing for working purposes, for a coat that needs trimming and trimming the dog’s coat. example hunting rats. and coat care might require However, not all terrier breeds the owners to familiarize require special care for their Typically, terriers are active, themselves with the subject, coat. fearless, participating, especially if the goal is to keep independent and intelligent the dog in show condition. by nature. Occasionally almost A totally untrimmed dog can too much so. In their original look very different from the purpose, they have had to face model pictures in dog books opponents up to their own and for some breeds the coat size both above and below care is more than a mere the ground surface. Currently, cosmetic issue. terriers are being bred to be Certain breeds have a hard more suitable to modern-day coat that needs to be stripped society but even today some a few times a year. When breeds of this group cannot be cared for properly, these dogs recommended just for anyone. do not extract much hair. You Given suitable guidance, the can do the stripping yourself larger terrier breeds especially but the easiest way is to take are ideal for many forms of your pet to a professional sports. The qualities that make trimmer. Other breeds, for them ideal for these activities example Wheat Terriers and make them quite unsuitable to Kerry Terriers, have a soft coat be a couch-bound companion that needs to be groomed by dog. The Airedale is even cutting. Depending on the breed, terriers can have various typical diseases. The most common include various eye disorders, luxating patella, legg-perthes, allergies, infections as well as problems with urinary tracts and kidneys. Many terrier breeds are condrodystrophic (i.e. they have extremely short limbs caused by disturbed development of the cartilage), which can cause problems when the dog is growing up.

The group of terrier breeds West Highland White, Cairn can be divided to various and Australian Terriers), subgroups, such as long- breeds (like the legged big breeds (like the Staffordshire Bull Terrier) Airedale, Lakeland, Welsh, and toy breeds (like the Irish, Kerry and Wheaten ). Terriers), small short-legged breeds (like the Jack Russell, Pointing dogs

Pointing dog breeds are is almost as if the dog and in an urban environment can be hunting dogs used in bird the human can read each challenging. Pointers need a lot hunting. Many of the breeds other’s minds. A skilled and of open space for moving and originate from medieval experienced dog sometimes just running on a leash is not bird dogs that have been also carefully detaches itself enough for them other than combined and bred in from the pointing posture on a temporary basis. Because slightly different ways in to inform the handler of the of this need for exercise, different countries, but some game’s whereabouts. The dog these breeds are sometimes breeds have been specifically can change the search radius considered challenging, even developed in the 19th according to the terrain: on difficult. If they are not allowed century, most significantly an open field or marshes the to express themselves properly the various German Pointers. range can be widened but in they will find something to do. For example, all breeds the woods it must be narrowed Sometimes this could mean originate from and to keep the necessary contact destruction of the household in their early forms they with the hunter. furniture. Most of all, pointing have been derived from After the dog catches the breeds are hunting dogs. When setting dogs that have been scent of the game, it stops very given enough exercise and used used as early as in the 16th quickly even from full gallop the way it is meant to, they are century. These dogs were and sets to character stance fairly easy and peaceful dogs in short-legged, long-bodied, with its nose against the wind. a domestic environment. often robustly built dogs The game is paralysed in place Typically, these breeds get well with strong, curly coat. After by the dog’s hypnotic gaze. along with other dogs and they they found a bird or a flock Due to their game-searching are not too eager to guard or of birds they usually lied habits, keeping pointing breeds bark. At best, they are open by down in a pointing posture.

Pointing dog breeds are still used for hunting fowl, for example pheasant, partridge or grouse. They can also be used as retrieving dogs in duck hunting. Some breeds are suitable for other kind of hunting, too. Most of all, pointing dogs are bird-hunting dogs. When hunting, the dog must search for game and operate separately from the human but still be in touch with him. At best, the contact nature but also timid ones are known to exist. Some pointing breeds are today more commonly used as companion dogs (like the Stabyhoun or Bracco Italiano) but most are still primarily used for hunting. Division between working and show lines is very distinct especially with that are popular in show circuits due to their impressive appearance. Show-lineage dogs are typically larger, heavier-built and hairier than more original- looking working dogs. Different lineages can sometimes even be mistaken for entirely different breeds. At worst, show-based breeding has been known to produce dogs that have lost both their distinct physical hunting features and the urge for hunting that are so characteristic for the breed. Almost all pointing breeds frequently participate in all field trials that the group of breeds is eligible to. In many breed clubs, it is also a general wish hunting. Lately certain pointing breeds can be that new owners are interested breeds, especially German divided to English and in giving the dogs a chance to Pointers, have been increasingly Continental breeds. The do what they were originally popular in . former consists of all setters developed for. That’s why some Pointer breeds are known and the Pointer, the latter breed clubs or associations will to suffer for example hip and for example of various only publish announcements elbow dysplasia, allergies, back German pointers, Münster for litters that are intended problem, epilepsy and eye Pointers, Bretons and for hunting. Puppies sold disorders. Their disorders are to Hungarian . through other channels are not some extent breed-related. necessarily as good choices for , flushing dogs and water dogs

Retrievers, flushing dogs there is a pheasant at the other the shot birds and bring them and water dogs have been side of that ditch! Eagerly and back to the owner. Even bred for working together with great courage it dives into today, some breeders aim to in close proximity with the thick underbrush and bushes preserve hunting qualities hunter. The dogs of these to check if there are any game in their breeding. Also, the breeds must be eager to hiding in there. All this time it same qualities that were so work and energetic enough will, in its own dog-language important in their original tasks to be able to complete a communication, keep the make retrievers ideal family long day of hunting. Being master posted, to get the dogs. eager to please is a very game within the range of the These breeds are happiest important characteristic for owner’s well-aimed shot and when doing what they were these dogs because it makes quickly retrieve the catch for meant to do. It is possible to the dogs easy to train. For the hunter to take home. It participate a hunting practise this kind of dog, it is very was qualities like these that even if you do not have a important to become a won -type dogs the shotgun and a hunting permit. member of the family and respect of hunters everywhere These dogs are also suitable utilize their energy to and a chance to evolve into for any other form of dog participate all events of the individual breeds. sports. Due to their social family. This group includes Retrievers were originally bred characteristics, these breeds are some of the most popular to retrieve dead and wounded also very popular as companion breeds of dogs. For long- small game as well as to lure dogs and well suited to that term enthusiasts of these waterfowl to the range of a purpose, too. However, if their breeds, it is not hard to see hunter’s gun. Retrievers search owner does not provide them why: these gentle, friendly and active dogs are bound to make humans feel better with their energetic appearance.

These breeds will lead the happiest life as a part of a family that loves the outdoor life and hiking in the wild. With its tail waggling ferociously, a spaniel leads its master in a criss-cross-pattern gallop, enjoying the smells and observing the environment: there’s a trail of an elk, a hare used this spot as a resting place last night and surely enough activities, these quick- that will get along with other breed. Typical disorders include minded and energetic dogs dogs as well as with people. hip and elbow dysplasia, are quite capable to creating However, with the most various eye disorders, luxating activities of their own. At that popular breeds the strong patella, epilepsy, tumours and stage we will be looking at a demand has sometimes lead ear infections. problem dog, which it indeed to using timid or otherwise is - both from the dog’s and non-typical dogs for breeding. the owner’s point of view. Although easy family dogs Many of these breeds can by reputation, these breeds, easily be trained to various too, need consistent basic pastime and professional obedience training. The breeds of this group duties. For example, most Division into working and include the Golden, guide dogs for the blind in show lines is visibly most Labrador and Flat-Coated Finland are Labrador Retrievers. apparent with Golden and as well as other Even if you do not need Labrador Retrievers as well as retriever breeds, the Cocker retrievers or spaniels as hunting for example Cocker Spaniels. Spaniel, English and Welsh partners, any owner should For some breeds of this group, Springer Spaniel and other be ready for at least two the health issues are reaching spaniel breeds as well as characteristics as a result of the worrying levels, even if the some breeds, like original purpose of the breeds: frequency of disorder varies by the Irish Water Spaniel. the dog will want to carry objects in its mouth and it will love water. It will try to collect any sticks, trash and dead birds it can find at the side of the road. And whenever it finds a muddy pond it just has to go paddling trough it. For the lack of proper swimming place, any puddle of rainwater will do as a place to lie down and get wet. At home, the dog will present its own toys as proudly as dirty socks retrieved from the laundry basket. Compared to herding dogs, retrievers are very independent. When opting, they can stray annoyingly far from the owner. By nature, retrievers and spaniels are social dogs Guardian Dogs

Livestock guardian dogs can also cause severe stress it must recognise as familiar were used to defend for the dog which can come and non-threatening, such as livestock against intruders out as aggressiveness. Outside cars, domestic appliances and and predators such as its own territory, a livestock people. Socialisation of the wolves. Several breeds of guardian dog should be open pup should be started already this group are still being or neutral by nature towards at breeder’s and be continued used for their original people it does not know. at least to the age of 6 months. purpose. They can also be Livestock guardian dogs As a pup, the dog should meet used for guarding industrial are often “fluffy-looking” or different new people and visit areas or other real estate teddy bear like in appearance outside its own territory a few property. and outside of their own times a week. If the dog will territory they can be happy be used for its original livestock Livestock guardian dogs work with strange people greeting guarding purposes, it must also independently and react to any them. In its own yard, however, be socialised to the species in threat by their own judgement, the same dog can behave question. not by human command. They totally differently, even to the When training, it should be cannot be afraid of or yield extent of being dangerous to noted that livestock guarding anything for anybody. Their unknown visitors. dogs have neither urge to threshold for reaction must Livestock guardian dogs please nor natural tendency be high and must not regard are by nature suspicious to expect to be told what to children, small dogs or show towards all new things. For do. Instead, they will only judges checking their teeth this reason, a pup must be do things they consider they as a threat. It must be noted carefully socialised to all things will benefit themselves, for however, that the dog can for example protect children of its own “herd” if it considers their play getting too rough. The urge for guarding should not be intensified by the owner in any circumstances. Primarily, the livestock guardian dogs try to drive away the intruder by barking. Due to this tendency to guard and bark, it is not well suited to environment where this behaviour can cause disturbance to the neighbourhood. Environment with too much stimulation (too many things to guard) example by getting treats. as visiting people. It can over- are also reasonably long-living. They are also psychologically react to a minor threat, even Their average expected age soft dogs, meaning they will to the extent of biting, but is shortened by keeping the remember any good or bad when facing a real threat it will dog in an unsuitable (usually experiences for the rest of yield. The owner of a livestock too busy and crowded) their lives. The same goes guardian dog should be very environment. for learning any good or bad knowledgeable and responsible habits. A dog trained by force as well as live in a peaceful and aggression will easily lose environment. Typical livestock guardian its trust towards the master, Like most large breeds, breeds include the meaning the relation will be livestock guardian dogs can , ruined for good. On the other suffer from hip and elbow various Mastiffs, Estrela hand, such methods can raise dysplasia. Because of their Mountain Dog, Owczarek the dog’s urge to defend itself. physical size, they are generally Podhalanski, Central Due to their size and physical vulnerable to growth-related Asian Shepherd Dog, toughness, these dogs can be disorders. Too rapid growth Maremmano-Abruzzese and dangerous in confrontation. A must be restrained with proper South Russian Ovcharka. can be feeding. trained but it requires patience Due to their weatherproof and absolute consistency. coat, livestock As with any breed, every guardian dogs individual livestock guardian can be kept dog is not necessarily a typical, out-of-doors self-confident representative of all year round. the breed. A timid or insecure Possibly they dog can regard as a threat will not even even the most common and like being kept harmless phenomenon, such indoors. They and -like primitive breeds

Sighthound group of breeds example trying to make it live Afghan . The first kind includes both the actual together with cats or rabbits means constant moulting and sighthounds and several can prove to be a mistake the need to cloth the dog up similar primitive breeds with fatal consequences. It in bad weather; the last one that share behaviour with is absolutely essential for requires daily care and possibly sighthounds. This is one of sighthounds to be able to run special hoods for feeding, as the oldest known type of free. When taking the dog well as boots and raincoats. breeds: dogs with similar you commit yourself to finding By character, the breeds differ conformation are known a safe area where the dog somewhat depending on the to exist for example in can run free on a daily basis. original purpose: there are the ancient Egypt and Ordinary walkies on the leash breeds developed, for example, Mesopotamia as long as simply are not enough. for racing, hunting wolves and 4000 years ago. Today, the There are mental as well as companion dogs. oldest pure breeds are the physical differences between Indoors at home, a grown-up Afghan, and . various breeds of this group. sighthound is usually calm and The , on The group includes the Irish restrained, even unnoticeable. the other hand, has been Wolfhound, one of the world’s When let outdoors, it re-created in the early 20th tallest breeds by withers height, instantly turns into an athlete. century to resemble an as well as one of the smallest Contrary to common belief, already extinct breed. The breeds, the Italian . sighthounds are usually quick Silken Windhoud, developed Type of coat varies from short to learn and easy to train, but in the late 20th century, is and flat coat of the to entertainment, rewards and an example of a totally new the rough and weatherproof versatility are important factors breed. one of the Irish Wolfhound to of successful training. the long and silky coat of the Breed-specific activities Today, although rarely, some of the breeds in this group can be seen as pleasant companion dogs. On the other hand, is a worldwide big business worth millions of euros. The factor in common across all sighthound breeds is, as the name suggests, hunting by eyesight. The dog operates independently, chases the prey and then kills it. This is something you should always keep in mind. You cannot keep the dog without a leash wherever you want and for include track and cross-country racing. Currently, you can also see them participate in agility (especially ) and obedience tests. In addition to these, tracking is popular, particularly in Sweden. Some of the breeds have been divided to show and working lines. The breeds with most differences between the lines are and, increasingly, Whippets. Show- line dogs are well suited to cross-country racing that is not usually recommended for track- running Greyhounds due to the risk of injury. The working-oriented breeding, limited popularity of the breeds as well as open registers of some breeds and exercising the dog. This group of breeds have probably protected However, the most common can be roughly divided sighthounds from several health risk with sighthounds is to oriental and western health issues. However, still injury. Many sighthounds breeds. The oriental breeds there are specific issues for will break a few toes, ribs, include the Afghan, Saluki, every breed, for example limbs or teeth. The flat-coated Sloughi, , Hortaya autoimmunity, disorders breeds have also such a thin Borzaya, Taigan (the last and eye disorders. There are skin that can tear easily when two not official breeds). also problems related to the playing rough. For anyone The western breeds include, dog’s size, such as the fragile looking for a companion among others, the English bones of Italian Greyhounds – dog, there are many young and Italian Greyhounds, a puppy can break a bone even sighthounds to choose from. Whippet, Irish Wolfhound by jumping off a couch – as Especially in the UK, retired and well as the shortened life of racers or dogs formerly used (not an official breed). Irish Wolfhounds and Scottish for hunting in and lately Other sighthound-type Deerhounds. Being deep- for some reason abandoned breeds include the Basenji, chested dogs, the sighthounds are offered for “adoption” to Podencos and Podengos have more than average risk new homes. Usually, these as well as the Pharaoh of bloat. This means you need dogs adapt to their new Hound. to be very careful with feeding environment surprisingly well. Toy dogs

There have been various marketed using combinations When buying a toy dog, small-sized breeds of dogs of the names of the source you should keep in mind the around the globe for a long breeds. To lure potential differences in character caused time. In China and Tibet, buyers, these dogs usually by the different evolution there have been dogs like are developed to be as cute- history of the breeds. Some , , looking as possible, sometimes breeds might have egos by and Lhasa also as small sized as possible. far exceeding their physical Apso for centuries. Old Today, the main purpose size and they can be very self- breeds of European origin of most toy dogs is that of a confident. include Maltese, companion and a source of joy At worst they can take over and Löwchen. Some of the to the owner and for a large the whole household and start breeds are about a century part of the breeds, this has bullying the owner any way old, meaning they originate always been the case. However, they want. You should keep from a period of busy some of the breeds have in mind that even toy dogs development of various dog originally been developed for a are still just dogs and proper breeds. purpose like hunting rats (e.g. training and sufficient outing English Toy Terrier or Griffons). as well as other activities will Over time, toy dogs have also Some have tendency to act do good both to the dog and found their way across the as watch dogs (for example to the owner. At their best, toy Atlantic, for example to Cuba Pomeranian and Spitz Klein). dogs are lively, energetic and where the modern Some breeds – like playful creatures that enjoy the Havanais emerged. Boston – can also be more independent company of their owners. The Terriers have conquered the and less social than others. most popular activities for toy world from the west, the to be precise. Many toy dog breeds have been favourites of royalties and other nobility, partly because they have both appearance and behaviour well suited to palace-like residences as well as the lap of their owners. Toy breeds also include several “miniature” versions of other breeds. These dogs tend to share their characteristics with the original breed, perhaps being slightly more companion- like by nature. There are also various crossbred toy dogs (so called designer dogs), often dogs are dog shows, agility to elderly people who might with toy dogs are related to and obedience tests. have problems controlling their conformation. Common There are no exact size limits a stronger dog. They are disorders with toy dogs to define which dogs can be usually also easier to keep in include allergies and heart regarded toy dogs. The height an urban environment than conditions. of the breeds is usually 20 bigger dogs. Due to their small Sometimes their ease of to 30 centimeters and they size, toy dogs usually get cold handling and compact size usually weigh from a few easily and often need a coat can be a disadvantage to toy kilograms up to a little over outdoors in the wintertime. dogs. These are exactly the ten kilograms. Conformation Generally speaking, small qualities that make them ideal can vary from the extremely dogs live longer than bigger for puppy manufacturing and slender Silken Terrier to robust ones and many toy dogs other ethically questionable French . There are will see several years after sales and breeding activities. differences with the coat, too. their 10th birthday. However, For this reason, you must be Anything from almost hairless especially breeds with short extra careful when buying a () to muzzle tend to live a shorter toy dog. short, medium-length and life. almost ground-reaching flat Some of toy dogs’ disorders coat (, Cavalier are specific to the breed Breeds considered as toy , Lhasa in question. These include dogs include the Cavalier Apso) as well as very coarse or luxating patella and leg King Charles Spaniel, Long curly-haired coat (Pomeranian, perthes. Breeds with short and Short Coat , ) can be found. muzzle can have more than Tibetan Spaniel, Bichon Many toy dog breeds have average rate of respitory Frisé, Coton de Tuléar, coat that demands a lot of problems and disorders. Biting Papillon and Phalene, attention from the owners, defects are also fairly common. Bichon Havanais as well especially if the coat is to be Many toy dog breeds have big as the . kept in breed-like condition. eyes that can cause problems. The coat might even need Big eyes are also accident- daily attention and attending prone. Breeds with relatively to a show often requires large head can have difficulties professional grooming help. giving birth. Because of their small size, The reason for the confor- toy dogs are more vulnerable mation of condrodystrophic to accidents than taller dogs breeds ( breeds with short and this should be taken into legs compared to the dog in account especially in families general ) is disturbed with small children. Other than development of the cartilage, that, most breeds in this group which also makes the dog are well suited to families with vulnerable to back problems. children as well as companions Most health-related problems Other dogs

In addition to purebred breeds. The gene pool of these the result will be more difficult (pedigree) dogs, there are peasant populations can turn to predict. If purchasing a dog also for example peasant out to be a part of the solution like this, you must be exploring dogs, dogs and to diversify the narrowed gene by nature and prepared for any mixed-breed dogs, pool of certain pedigree breeds. kind of surprises. If the dog sometimes also known as Crossbred dogs will be big in size, think very . Dogs that are actively used carefully: an uncontrollable dog for working purposes are weighing 50 kg is much more often result of conscious challenging than a dog with Peasant dogs crossbreeding. Police dogs, similar character but weighing, A peasant breed is a dog seeing-eye dogs, frontier guard say, 8 kg. population that has been dogs, search and rescue dogs, In some cases, it may be known to exist a long time in assistant dogs for handicapped possible to apply for a special the same geographical area or sled dogs, there are license for crossbreeding, in and has fairly heterogeneous numerous dogs working for which case the descendants genetic inheritance. Also, these the benefit of society and can be registered. In Finland, populations have, to a great mankind that are a result of a few crossbreedings have extent, been random-bred cross-breeding. been approved by the Finnish without any conscious effort When you crossbreed two Kennel Club. of breeding for a certain dogs of different breeds purpose. For this reason, these sharing the same purpose Mongrels or dogs usually are not registered of use, the result will most mixed-breed dogs by kennel clubs. There still probably be a dog with The breeding of a mixed-breed exist certain working dog relatively predictable character, dogs has been dictated by the populations that have been working qualities and laws of rather than known to exist in their area for appearance as well as most any deliberate decisions of the a very long period. They have probably more vitality than its owner. According to several always been, and still remain, parents had. When crossing studies, mixed-breed dogs in self-evident tools of trade to the two breeds with different average live longer and have human population: shepherds, working purposes, such as fewer problems with their yard-dogs, sled dogs or guard hunting and herding breeds, health than their purebred dogs. They can become mixed brethren. with other similar breeds and You cannot say what a mixed- populations but their original bred pup will look like when working qualities are still intact. it grows up or what kind of Some of these peasant character it will have. Even the populations and log-extinct size of the grown-up dog can primitive breeds may have be hard to estimate. Looking at been registered in their time. the dam and sire can give some Breeders may have used them guidelines about the issue. as material for developing new When purchasing a mixed- breed dog you must be as family as any registered for mixed-breed dogs. If you careful as when buying a purebred dog. Just like a want your mixed-breed dog to purebred. You should be pedigree, a has a participate in any competition prepared to pay for health, family tree that spans all the sanctioned by the Kennel Club good character, long lifetime, way to the first domesticated (for example, agility), your usable type and wanted dogs. You must appreciate your dog must be registered in this appearance (size, coat, etc.). dog and treat it nice. You must register. The health records If both parents of the mongrel ID tag, deworm and vaccinate of FIX-registered dogs are not puppy are available you can your dog and treat it properly. recorded by the Kennel Club try to make guesses about the A mixed-breed dog can be and any FIX-registered dams or nature of the dog. used for same activities as a sires will not be visible in the An old and healthy dog as a purebred dog. In Finland, for records of FIX-registered dogs. father is more telling than a some events sanctioned by It is still worth registering any young dog that possibly has the Finnish Kennel Club the mixed-breed dog because it not yet shown the genetic admittance to competition can shows the dog’s owner. If the disorders it might have. Even be limited. A mixed-breed dog dog gets lost it will be easier if the puppy is a mongrel, is not allowed to participate to return the dog to its proper the proven medical records in working dog sport events owner after its ID tagging has of the puppy’s parents are sanctioned by the Finnish been read by the authorities. worth paying a higher price. working dogs association. Also, the care of the dam – However, a dog trained for any Above, there are a few vaccination, dewormings and search and rescue duties does examples of different types proper feeding – are worth not have to be registered by and breeds of dogs and how noting and paying for. Most the Kennel Club and is allowed their qualities and properties expensive mixed-bred puppies to participate in such tests. The affect their keeping. To find are produced by puppy only requirements are suitable a companion best suited to factories and you usually only age, ID tagging and valid your needs and the needs of get bad feelings in return. If vaccinations. your family, carefully study the price of a mixed-bred pup The Finnish Kennel Club the origins and characteristics seems high for no apparent has a so called FIX-register of the breeds you are reason, look and ask around considering. Contact the and find out more about the breed clubs of the breeds to breeder. Remember however, find out about the history there must be a price for a and future plans of the puppy and the price can be breed, a realistic picture of considered a life insurance for the current state of health the dog. The price must be too the breed as well as main high for any child to pay with issues to consider in breeding. their pocket money. This information can often A mixed-breed dog is as be found in the website of valuable a member of the the breed club. Choosing the dog and the breeder

A dog breeder usually has and other close relatives. using uninspected dogs or dogs more experience and better Choose a breeder who with ill health for breeding. knowledge than an average prioritises the good and Generally, a breeder should dog buyer. The buyer cannot characteristic nature of the be able to justify all decisions necessarily ask the right dogs as well as their health. made when choosing an questions, certainly not all A skilled breeder will have a individual dog for breeding. of them and usually not good knowledge of the breed’s In Finland, the Kennel Club even the most important original purpose as well as a has an announcement service ones. A breeder should strive to breeding dogs that are for puppies open to any litter be able to spontaneously physically and mentally suitable registered by the Kennel Club. tell the main points about for this purpose. For working A breed club or association disorders, usage, character breeds, this means that the may have similar services with and other important issues breeder actually uses the dogs stricter criteria, so they are about the breed in general in any breed-specific working usually preferable channels for and the individual dogs tests to be able to evaluate buying a dog. in particular. If a breeder them against the breed Most dog breeds are claims that all their dogs average. genetically narrow populations. have been completely A proper breeder has To prevent further narrowing of well, healthy and awarded, appropriate medical certificates the breed’s gene pool, choose tested, open-minded as well about any breed-specific a puppy whose parents have as well-mannered and all genetic disorders for the not been excessively used in gone to perfect homes, with dogs used for breeding. In breeding. For Finnish dogs, nothing left to worry this addition to the Kennel Club’s you can check the issue in perfect breeder, consider registration requirements, the Kennel Club’s Breeding this as a warning sign. many breed clubs require that Information Database in the dogs used for breeding their website. Dogs used Choose a breeder who is not undergo medical examinations excessively in breeding are willing to give the puppies to eliminate the risk of breed- called matadors. In its lifetime, to any home but wants to test specific health issues. Many no individual dog should have you as well. Contact several breeders also have voluntary more offspring than 10 % of breeders and discuss the breed health inspections made for the total number of registered and the future litters with their breeding dogs. You can dogs of that breed in the last them. The breeder should be usually find the mandatory two years. willing to answer your health inspections in the breed A high level of questions and be able to justify club’s website or in other increases the possibility of any choices of the parents. breeding guidelines published various genetic disorders When getting a puppy – or by them. If these inspections appearing in the dog. The level a grown-up dog for that have not been made, you of inbreeding can be calculated matter – you should familiarise should ask the breeder why when you know the dog’s yourself with the health record not. A breeder must have ancestors. The coefficient of and character of the parents extremely good reasons for inbreeding measures the probability that two alleles at However, you must familiar everyday noises and any locus in a dog are identical remember there is no such on the other hand, have by descent from common thing as a perfect dog. No they been allowed to rest ancestors of the sire and the matter how much good work sufficiently and have a quiet dam. This means the degree to has been done for the benefit place to calm down? Do the which two alleles are more of their health, dogs even from puppies and the dam seem likely to be homozygous in an responsible, good breeders can well balanced, peppy and individual. When the two have genetic disorders. A good curious in a normal way? alleles are homozygous, also breeder is candid with the Not all individual dogs are the hidden (recessive) traits will health and other test results typical representatives of their appear. The closer the dog’s and strives to improve them breed. Characteristic qualities parents are related to each generation by generation. are genetic and a puppy will other the higher the level of Before making the decision also adopt the behavioural inbreeding is. Calculated for to buy, familiarise yourself patterns of its dam. You should four to five generations, the with the dam and siblings of pay attention to the dam: if level of inbreeding should be the puppies as well as the you think that is not the kind no more than 6.25%, meaning environment they are growing of dog you want, maybe you the dog’s parents should not up in. Ask and look around: should look for a pup from be closer related to each other how have the puppies been another litter, another breeder than cousins. For example, handled, are they used to or another breed. when siblings breed with each other, the level of inbreeding will be 25 %. So-called historical inbreeding exists with all breeds but breeding with close relatives is the factor most responsible for increasing the inbreeding level. Inbreeding is predominantly a problem with purebred dogs but mixed- breed dogs are known to have high level of inbreeding as well.

In addition to health issues, good breeders will have their dogs tested for character, abilities or breed-specific behaviour. You should ask health and character test results for mixed-breed puppies as well as purebred! Buying a dog from a contract point of view Dogs from consumerism point of view

In Finland, the freedom of buyer’s duty to attend shows covers all aspects of the contract is fairly unlimited. with the dog or to have certain arrangement. There are few limits to the medical examinations made. issues that either party can In case these terms exist in Get acquainted with the include in the purchase the contract, you should dog’s breed and the breeder in contract. However, the also record what are the particular beforehand and look contract should be fair. The consequences if these terms for information in different Finnish Kennel Club has are not met. And which party sources. created a template contract is liable to pay for the issues Also, take your time in of sale that is generally used mentioned in the contract. reading through all the in the purebred dog trade. paperwork you’ll have to sign. Any breeder who has signed When buying a dog you Ask all information related to the Kennel Club’s breeder’s should make sure you get a the pup and it’s background commitment agreement sufficient right of possession. as well as any information must use this template. In addition to buying, you can about breed-related diseases In this form, the breeder also get a dog by making a and disorders in writing and confirms to have disclosed placement agreement where read the material carefully all relevant information the ownership of the dog beforehand. about the background of remains with the breeder until Ask the breeder to explain the dog and the breed. certain conditions have been any unclear issues in a way you The form, unfortunately met. You should read this can understand. in Finnish or Swedish only agreement carefully several ( Sopimus koiran kaupasta / times. Köpeavtal för hund ), can be found in the Finnish It is not uncommon for the Kennel Club’s website at breeder and the buyer to have www.kennelliitto.fi. disagreements. For example, they might have different A dog is usually sold by the opinions about the dog’s breeder. If a puppy is sold by healthcare. Possible causes other person than the breeder, for disagreement should be there is a reason to suspect considered before signing the whether the seller is actually placement contract. a broker who buys registered puppies from breeders and The agreement should list then sells them on at a higher these issues and the agreed price. solutions to them. The breeder might want Who will decide what? certain terms and conditions Who will pay for what? added to the contract of sale. It is virtually impossible to These terms can include the create an agreement that Dogs and consumer protection in Finland

Usually, if you are considered a professional seller. have genetic tendencies for considering a purchase of However, these regulations do various health disorders, but a product you can easily not take into account the fact the environment and the find a consumer-oriented that for the buyer, a dog is conditions of living can have magazine or a website usually a member of the family, affect if and how they appear. where you can find not a piece of merchandise. That’s why it is impossible to comparisons and other Also, there are no comparison give dogs any guarantee of product tests. You can easily tests for dogs, breeds or health. However, the breeder find out about the good breeders. There is an enormous must make every effort to and the bad things about variety in the quality of the sold ensure that their dogs are as the product as well as its dogs. healthy and well charactered cost-quality ratio. From new Different breeds have as possible. The breeder is, cars and fridges to lipsticks, different health records and within reason, obliged to the purpose of these breeders of the same breed can find if there are any genetic comparisons is to enable the produce very different dogs in disorders in the dogs used for consumer to make a good quality. Anyone considering a breeding or in their relatives. purchase in a cost-effective purchase of a dog should make price. Even when consumers every effort to find a breed The health test results, as make bad decisions and buy and an individual dog that well as their significance to defective products, they has lower than average risk of the dog’s health later in life, can rely on product liability diseases. For this reason, you must be disclosed to the buyer. and consumer protection as a potential buyer should For example, the buyer can regulations. They can get as much information as present the breeder (seller) a make a quality complaint possible about the breed of series of questions beforehand to the authorities about interest before the purchase. and ask for written answers the product and possibly You should read everything to them. This is a good way get it replaced with a new you can, talk to the owners of verifying if the breeder flawless product or maybe of the breed, even pay critical has disclosed all relevant get a partial refund of the attention to rumours as well information about the dog purchase price. When a as learn to use the Kennel and its breed. No matter how newly acquired TV breaks Club’s Breeding Information professional in purchasing you down, the buyer simply Database. However, you should might otherwise be in talking changes it for a new one, only believe proven facts and to the breeder and signing no sentiments involved. be aware that you might have the purchase agreement, with conflicting interests with the a cute puppy in your arms your According to trade, product breeder. mind will most probably be liability and consumer more than a little distracted. protection regulations, a When buying a dog, you dog is a product and these should concentrate in finding If the dog is diagnosed with regulations apply to dog knowledgeable breeder. a , the buyer trade as long as the seller is Dogs, as well as us humans, might be able to present a claim to the breeder. In that case, it will be investigated if the product (the dog) is worse than what the breeder was supposed to deliver to the buyer. The buyer must be able to back up the claim with proof. If the seller has given the buyer false information or withheld relevant information about the dog, the seller is liable for damages. Even a veterinary inspection performed for the pup does not revoke the seller’s liability of disorders or defects appear- ing at a later stage. In some cases, the breeder can be obliged to participate in the veterinarian costs. However, the liability usually cannot ex- ceed the purchase price of the dog. Usually, the medical treat- ment of a genetic disease costs more than the dog’s purchase price. Most insurances do not cover genetic diseases, either. The future of your favourite breed is in your hands

As you can see, choosing picture of the breed. Any dog If the breed club collects the the right dog is not an easy that dies before its time will information using health and task. And neither is the cause unnecessary grief and cause of death surveys, you breeding of one. The main sorrow for its owners. should fill in the form for your problem with breeding is dog. If the breed club does not that there are not enough Do your favourite breed collect this kind of information results of health inspections, a favour and have your you should still inform them medical test and characters dog examined for genetic about these issues. It is the tests available. Most disorders. It is also a good breed club’s responsibility to dogs will end up as mere idea to have its character maintain and develop proper companion dogs and no tested. breeding guidelines for the data will be made available breed. You should demand of their qualities. If the breeder does not tell your breed club to collect you about the possible genetic statistics about the dogs and In a breeding perspective, dogs disorders of the breed you make them available to the are often regarded with too should examine the issue breeders. much emotion and too little yourself. You should inform sense. It is even known that the breed club of any disease a dog’s bad test results have or other problem your dog Additional information : been covered up on purpose. might have. If you own a For breeding purposes, it working breed dog, you Website of Finnish Society for would be vital to know which should take a test measuring Canine Genetic Health and combinations have produced its working qualities. Any Ethics (HETI): certain defects, such as biting information about an www.koiranjalostus.fi/english defects, testicle defects or individual dog will help problems with behaviour develop the breed as a whole! The Finnish Kennel Club: or physical health and how www.kennelliitto.fi / EN frequent these occurrences The Finnish Kennel Club are within the breed in keeps an open database of The Finnish Kennel Club’s general. The health and overall dates and causes of deaths Breeding database wellness of an individual dog of registered dogs. When http://jalostus.kennelliitto.fi is as important information to your dog passes away, you breeders and authorities of the can record this information breed club as are any disorders yourself into the database and defects. if you are a member. A Not all dogs will be used non-member can send for breeding but all dogs are this information by email offspring of their parents and omakoira@kennelliitto. ancestors and representatives fi. Only the owner of the of their breed, making their dog is allowed to give this own mark in the overall information to the database.

The demand of puppies is the most important factor that guides dog breeding. You can vote with your wallet by purchasing your dog from a responsible breeder who will have the dogs examined for health and character before making the breeding decisions and who can also show you the results in writing.

Come and join us in making our dogs’ lives healthier and happier!

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