Sunday, June 7, 2015

Largest Dog Breeds Series : Newfoundland

Image result for images of a newfoundland dog
 
 
 
The origin of the Newfoundland breed is traced to Newfoundland - an incorporated island of Canada.
 
The Newfoundland is a working dog, especially in water.  The physical attributes of the Newfoundland allow this breed to "excel at water rescue/lifesaving" - muscular build, thick double coat, webbed feet, natural swimming ability.
 
The Newfoundland is calm in temperament.  The Newfoundland is loyal and excellent with children.
 
The Newfoundland is an ideal therapy companion dog and is otherwise known as a "nanny dog."
 
Point of interest - "Nana" in Peter Pan was a Newfoundland dog.
 
Stats:
- Males weigh 132 to 154 pounds & Females weigh 100 to 121 pounds
- Prone to hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, defective heart valves
- 8 to 10 years is the average life span
 
Source:  Wikipedia
 
 


Wednesday, June 3, 2015

Largest Dog Breeds Series : Bullmastiff

Image result for images of a bullmastiff
(Source:  Wikipedia)
 
 
 
 
The origin of the Bullmastiff is in England and records of this breed date to the late 1700s.  The Bullmastiff owes inheritance to the Mastiff and the Bulldog.
 
The Bullmastiff is calm and affectionate.  The Bullmastiff is intelligent, devoted, and loyal.  This dog is good with children.  The Bullmastiff is fearless.
 
Firm, confident, and consistent leadership and training are a must.  Socialization in puppy years is best to be comfortable around people, other dogs, and other household pets.
 
Stats:
- Males weigh 110 to 133 pounds & Females weigh 100 to 120 pounds
- Prone to cancer, hip dysplasia, tumors, eyelid problems, mast cell tumors
- Prone to bloat...DO NOT OVERFEED
- Sensitive to extreme climates
- Under 10 years is the average life span
 
Source:  Dog Breed Info


Monday, June 1, 2015

Largest Dog Breeds Series : Neapolitan Mastiff

Image result for neapolitan mastiff dog images american kennel club
 
 
 
"All European mastiffs are descended from the Tibetan Mastiff, the most ancient member of the canine species." - Dog Breed Info
 
The Neapolitan Mastiff is also referred to as the Italian Mastiff and Neo.  The Neapolitan Mastiff is often used by the Italian police and army.  The Neo is considered to be a "formidable guard dog."  (Dog Breed Info)
 
The Neapolitan Mastiff is affectionate and calm.  The Neo is intelligent, protective, and courageous. 
 
Socialization is critical to avoid reservation around strangers, other animals, and unfamiliar territory.
 
The Neapolitan Mastiff is good with children IF the children show proper leadership.
 
The Neapolitan Mastiff is not recommended for a new dog owner.  Dominance and experience are ideal in training.  Natural leadership is likewise ideal.  Consistent communication is necessary.  According to Dog Breed Info, if this dog does not listen to a command, the owner should try a different approach while remaining confident.
 
Stats:
- The average weight is up to 165 pounds.
*Male Neapolitans can weigh as much as 200 pounds.
- Prone to cherry eye, hip dysplasia, bloat
- Sensitive to heat
- Long walks twice a day or more
*Neapolitan Mastiffs require a good amount of daily exercise
- Up to 10 years is the average life span
 
Source:  Dog Breed Info