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Dogs + Behavior & Training

  • Devotees of the Gordon Setter say that they're highly intelligent and that they're as good at being faithful companions as they are at finding birds for the hunter. Plenty of daily, regular exercise brings out the best in this sweet-natured (but sometimes bossy) dog, and keeps him from becoming too rowdy.

  • The eye-catching Great Dane, called the "Apollo of Dogdom," is the tallest of all dogs. The sleek, proud appearance of this breed gives these dogs a look of majesty. Do not expect puppies to have the grace or wisdom of an adult, even though they can stand up to lick you in the face.

  • Although he is devoted to his family – especially to children – the Pyr likes his own space; if you want a Velcro dog, this breed is not for you. That said, the Pyr has much to offer the right individual or family: a calm, sedate demeanor, devotion to the household and its inhabitants, and a willingness to protect all concerned.

  • The Greater Swiss Mountain Dog is a big sweetie-pie; despite his large size, he likes to cuddle with his people and may even think that he's a lap dog.

  • Aloof with strangers, the Greyhound enjoys familial attention, but is not demanding. Greyhounds are perfectly content to lie on a cushy bed and watch you doing your household chores.

  • Head down. Eyes averted. Shoulders hunched. Tail thumping the floor. Body retreating. Your pet looks guilty, maybe even apologetic, right? WRONG! Your pet’s body posture and attitude do not indicate guilt or remorse but represent a response to your body posture and attitude.

  • The Harrier is a typical scent hound: born with a love of the hunt and the desire to follow his nose wherever it leads. But he's more than that when he's given the chance. He's a mild-mannered sort, tolerant and good with children.

  • Who could resist that fuzzy face? The Havanese is a delightful companion for all ages. They have plenty of stamina to keep up with the most energetic child. Bichon-type dogs often perform in circuses and happily show off tricks for their families and other spectators.

  • When a beloved family member dies, the surviving people and pets mourn the loss. Dogs and cats rely on their social group for safety and emotional well being. Surviving pets experience the loss of a favored companion and a disruption of the social dynamic. They may also be distressed when they sense changes in the emotions and behavior of household people.

  • Training a dog to understand human communications is easier when we consider how our tone and volume influence our message. Verbal commands will be interpreted differently by your dog depending on how they hear it. Just remember, it’s not just what you say….it’s how you say it.