Canine curiosities

One of the biggest surprises in canine genetics recently has been the discovery of two dogs with a pointed ‘Siamese’ pattern, what do these dogs look like? In this article we will find out. 

The Royal Veterinary College (RVC) has conducted the world's largest study of the health of designer crossbred dogs and has revealed that the general health of three common breeds (cockapoo, labradoodle and cavapoo) is very similar to that of their purebred progenitors.

The Dalmatian is an elegant, medium sized dog with a slender, muscular body; they are well known for their unique characteristics which make them easily recognisable, and if they are identified by anything it is by their white coat with black spots, as this is their most outstanding characteristic.

The bichon bolognese, of Italian origin, has been a highly appreciated companion dog for centuries thanks to its sweet temperament and its cuddly appearance. These characteristics and their small size, weighing no more than 4 kg, make them suitable for families with members of all ages. 

The Cardigan Welsh Corgi is a small, sturdy dog that has been bred for centuries in the misty hills of Cardiganshire in Wales, its name meaning ‘dwarf dog’ in Welsh. In fact, it has been discovered in ancient Welsh law that there could be severe penalties for those who stole or harmed a Cardigan Welsh Corgi, because its work had a direct effect on the economic situation of its owners.

The Pembroke Welsh Corgi (Welsh: Pembroke Welsh Corgi; Welsh: Penfro Corgi Cymraeg) is a breed of small dog native to Wales. It has served for centuries as a sheepdog, and is considered one of the oldest dogs in Britain.

The pug is a very particular dog. If one had to define it in two words, one would have to say that it is a bonsai mastiff. And the ‘official’ motto of the breed, multum in parvo (Latin: much in little - much substance in small space), certainly alludes to a big dog in a small body.

The French bulldog is a breed of dog originating in France and established as such in the late 19th century. They were first bred by lace makers in England and then in France when they were displaced by the Industrial Revolution. However, the United States and France have played important roles in the development of this breed.