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Coton De Tulear
The Coton De Tulear is a small companion breed from Madagascar with a long white coat of cotton-like texture. Many are playful, sociable and curious about people and new situations.
Appearance & size
The Coton is small, with round dark eyes and long hair that softens the outline. Weights are 4–6 kg for males and 3.5–5 kg for females.
Coat
The white coat is long and notable for its cotton-like feel. That makes mat prevention an important concern.
Typical behavior
Many are affectionate and eager to engage with people, with curiosity helping them explore unfamiliar situations.
Activity
Daily walks and frequent play are mentioned, alongside an interest in running and swimming. Some may have the stamina for longer outings, but that is not a required distance for every Coton.
Care
Keeping up with the coat is a continuing task, not something reserved for show preparation. Household flexibility and friendliness do not reduce the time this grooming can take.
Sources & credits
- Coton de Tulear · Wikipedia contributors · CC BY-SA 4.0 · Wikipedia text shortened, reorganized and paraphrased; independent registry facts added. Images excluded. Wikipedia-derived adaptations remain CC BY-SA 4.0; no exclusive ownership claimed. · License · Original revision / history
Curly Coated Retriever
The Curly Coated Retriever is a strong sporting dog whose closely curled coat is its defining visual feature. Many combine enthusiasm for water work with affection for familiar people and a measure of independence.
Appearance & size
A strong sporting dog with a close-curled coat and athletic outline.
Coat
The coat consists of close curls with a naturally oily surface associated with water work.
Typical behavior
Many are devoted to their people and respond to praise, while keeping an independent approach to requests.
Activity
The combination of pace, stamina and intelligence supports an active life rather than a purely sedentary routine. Enjoyment of water is a tendency and should not be assumed for every individual.
Care
The coat needs relatively little styling, but routine attention remains useful. Activity, patient teaching and household company are substantial commitments.
Sources & credits
- Curly-coated Retriever · Wikipedia contributors · CC BY-SA 4.0 · Wikipedia text shortened, reorganized and paraphrased; independent registry facts added. Images excluded. Wikipedia-derived adaptations remain CC BY-SA 4.0; no exclusive ownership claimed. · License · Original revision / history
Dachshund Kaninchen Long Haired
The Kaninchen Long Haired Dachshund is the rabbit-hunting size of Dachshund with a longer, feathered coat. A low body and short legs connect it to the breed's underground working origins.
Appearance & size
The body is elongated, muscular and low to the ground, with a raised head and alert-looking face.
Coat
The coat has undercoat beneath smooth, shiny outer hair. Length increases on the throat, underside, ears and backs of the legs, and the underside of the tail carries the fullest fringe.
Typical behavior
Scenting interest can therefore be part of its behaviour despite small size.
Activity
Scenting and tracking are part of its working identity. These interests may remain evident during everyday exploration despite the small size.
Care
Long-haired Dachshunds need brushing suited to the thickness of their coat, with attention to the longer furnishings.
Sources & credits
- Dachshund · Wikipedia contributors · CC BY-SA 4.0 · Wikipedia text shortened, reorganized and paraphrased; independent registry facts added. Images excluded. Wikipedia-derived adaptations remain CC BY-SA 4.0; no exclusive ownership claimed. · License · Original revision / history
Dachshund Kaninchen Smooth Haired
The Kaninchen Smooth Haired Dachshund is a small, low-built hunting dog with a close, short coat. Its size developed for rabbit work, while its elongated outline remains recognisably Dachshund.
Appearance & size
Short legs support a long, compact and muscular body. The face is described as alert, with a confident head carriage.
Coat
Dense, shiny, short hair lies close to the body and has a firmer texture than its smooth appearance might imply. The tail is covered without the long fringe of the Long Haired variety.
Typical behavior
Many are described as friendly and fairly even in disposition, while hunting persistence and a strong interest in scent are also prominent.
Activity
Scenting and tracking interests reflect its underground and above-ground hunting background. Small stature does not erase those interests.
Care
The smooth coat generally needs little beyond wiping or using a hound glove to remove loose hair and dirt.
Sources & credits
- Dachshund · Wikipedia contributors · CC BY-SA 4.0 · Wikipedia text shortened, reorganized and paraphrased; independent registry facts added. Images excluded. Wikipedia-derived adaptations remain CC BY-SA 4.0; no exclusive ownership claimed. · License · Original revision / history
Dachshund Kaninchen Wire Haired
The Kaninchen Wire Haired Dachshund combines the rabbit-sized Dachshund format with a wiry coat, beard and bushy brows. Many share the breed's friendly companion tendencies and determined hunting interests.
Appearance & size
A small, low-bodied Dachshund with short limbs and a long muscular torso.
Coat
A close wiry outer layer covers undercoat, with a distinct beard and fuller brows. Hair on the ears is shorter and smoother than the body hair.
Typical behavior
Many retain the Dachshund family's friendly companion tendencies and persistent hunting interests.
Activity
Tracking and work above and below ground are the activities supported by the history.
Care
Wire-haired Dachshunds need a different routine from smooth-coated dogs. Brush or comb regularly, keep the beard and eyebrows tidy, and discuss periodic hand-stripping with a groomer familiar with the coat.
Sources & credits
- Dachshund · Wikipedia contributors · CC BY-SA 4.0 · Wikipedia text shortened, reorganized and paraphrased; independent registry facts added. Images excluded. Wikipedia-derived adaptations remain CC BY-SA 4.0; no exclusive ownership claimed. · License · Original revision / history
Dachshund Long Haired & Miniature Long Haired
This combined entry covers standard and miniature Long Haired Dachshunds. Both have a low, elongated body and feathered coat, with the determined interests of a hunting breed.
Appearance & size
The body is long and low but compact and muscular, rather than simply stretched in proportion. For the larger size, the stated ideal weight is 9–12 kg.
Coat
Long hair is soft and straight or lightly waved, lying close enough for the body outline to remain visible. Feathering is fullest beneath the neck and body, behind the legs, on the ears and under the tail.
Typical behavior
Many Dachshunds are loyal, lively and interested in their surroundings, but can be obstinate.
Activity
The two included sizes are kept together without assuming that the Miniature has a completely different activity identity.
Care
Long-haired Dachshunds need brushing suited to the thickness of their coat, with attention to the longer furnishings.
Sources & credits
- Dachshund · Wikipedia contributors · CC BY-SA 4.0 · Wikipedia text shortened, reorganized and paraphrased; independent registry facts added. Images excluded. Wikipedia-derived adaptations remain CC BY-SA 4.0; no exclusive ownership claimed. · License · Original revision / history
Dachshund Smooth Haired & Miniature Smooth Haired
This combined entry covers standard and miniature Smooth Haired Dachshunds. Close short hair outlines a low, muscular body, and many are affectionate yet persistent companions.
Appearance & size
Short legs support a compact, elongated torso with substantial muscle.
Coat
The hair is dense, short and smooth, with coarser hair beneath the tail. The skin fits the body closely despite being supple.
Typical behavior
Many are faithful and friendly with their household, while a lively, watchful nature and occasional stubbornness may also be evident.
Activity
The working background includes underground hunting, scenting and tracking. Earthdog is mentioned as an outlet in which the breed's inherited interests can be seen.
Care
The smooth coat generally needs little beyond wiping or using a hound glove to remove loose hair and dirt.
Sources & credits
- Dachshund · Wikipedia contributors · CC BY-SA 4.0 · Wikipedia text shortened, reorganized and paraphrased; independent registry facts added. Images excluded. Wikipedia-derived adaptations remain CC BY-SA 4.0; no exclusive ownership claimed. · License · Original revision / history
Dachshund Wire Haired & Miniature Wire Haired
This combined entry covers standard and miniature Wire Haired Dachshunds. A rough outer coat, beard and brows distinguish the presentation from smooth and long-haired forms.
Appearance & size
Both sizes have a long, low body with substantial muscle. The miniature presentation is smaller, not a separate coat type.
Coat
Short, straight, coarse outer hair covers dense undercoat. The beard and brows are fuller, while ear hair is nearly smooth.
Typical behavior
Many are affectionate and attentive to the household, with intelligence, liveliness and a sometimes obstinate approach.
Activity
Scenting and tracking interests occur across both sizes. Earthdog is one organized activity related to the breed's underground working background.
Care
Wire-haired Dachshunds need a different routine from smooth-coated dogs. Brush or comb regularly, keep the beard and eyebrows tidy, and discuss periodic hand-stripping with a groomer familiar with the coat.
Sources & credits
- Dachshund · Wikipedia contributors · CC BY-SA 4.0 · Wikipedia text shortened, reorganized and paraphrased; independent registry facts added. Images excluded. Wikipedia-derived adaptations remain CC BY-SA 4.0; no exclusive ownership claimed. · License · Original revision / history
Dalmatian
The Dalmatian is an athletic, medium-sized dog with dark spots on a white coat and a strong association with carriage work. Many are lively companions who enjoy movement and may be exuberant in family settings.
Appearance & size
The body is balanced and athletic, suited to sustained road work rather than simply an impressive spotted outline.
Coat
The hair is short and the base colour white. Spots are either black or a deep brown in the liver-coloured variety.
Typical behavior
Many Dalmatians are outgoing, eager to interact and receptive to training.
Activity
Enjoyment of parks or beaches may compete with returning to the owner when distracted. That tendency is relevant to management during outings, without making poor recall inevitable.
Care
The short coat can shed throughout the year. Regular removal of loose hair is part of routine upkeep.
Sources & credits
- Dalmatian dog · Wikipedia contributors · CC BY-SA 4.0 · Wikipedia text shortened, reorganized and paraphrased; independent registry facts added. Images excluded. Wikipedia-derived adaptations remain CC BY-SA 4.0; no exclusive ownership claimed. · License · Original revision / history
Dandie Dinmont Terrier
Many are relatively easygoing household companions while retaining determination when challenged.
Appearance & size
Short legs carry a sturdy, long body with a curved outline. A relatively large head, round eyes, ear tassels and a full topknot distinguish the Dandie at a glance.
Coat
The body coat has a crisp, lint-like texture, contrasting with the soft silky hair on top of the head. Pepper and mustard are the two colour families described.
Typical behavior
Many Dandies are placid and tolerant for terriers, with a sensitive and intelligent manner.
Activity
The breed may enjoy playful activity as well as close time on a lap. Youngsters can be mischievous or destructive, and clear expectations paired with positive rewards are described as useful.
Care
Regular brushing and skilled grooming are needed. Show presentation involves stripping the body coat to retain texture and colour, with trimming of the topknot and leg furnishings.
Sources & credits
- Dandie Dinmont Terrier · Wikipedia contributors · CC BY-SA 4.0 · Wikipedia text shortened, reorganized and paraphrased; independent registry facts added. Images excluded. Wikipedia-derived adaptations remain CC BY-SA 4.0; no exclusive ownership claimed. · License · Original revision / history
Deerhound
The Deerhound is a large Scottish sighthound with a rough grey coat and a body shaped for pursuit. Many adults are relaxed and affectionate at home, although youngsters can be much busier.
Appearance & size
The general outline resembles a larger, more heavily boned Greyhound. Male weights are given as 39–48 kg and female weights as 30–37 kg.
Coat
The coat is rough and wiry, with various grey shades.
Typical behavior
Many are gentle, dignified and closely attached to family.
Activity
Running-animal triggers remain relevant even when a dog lives comfortably with an indoor cat. Household familiarity does not guarantee the same response during a chase outdoors.
Care
Simple coat management is only part of ownership.
Sources & credits
- Scottish Deerhound · Wikipedia contributors · CC BY-SA 4.0 · Wikipedia text shortened, reorganized and paraphrased; independent registry facts added. Images excluded. Wikipedia-derived adaptations remain CC BY-SA 4.0; no exclusive ownership claimed. · License · Original revision / history
Dobermann
The Dobermann is a muscular, athletic breed developed for personal guarding and now also kept as a close household companion. Many are energetic, attentive and quick to learn.
Appearance & size
The body is strong and muscular, with an athletic outline suited to speed and agile movement.
Coat
The hair is short and smooth. Black with rust-red markings is the common colour combination described, followed by brown with rust.
Typical behavior
Many are strongly attached to their household and show protective tendencies.
Activity
Long stretches alone in a backyard are contrasted with the family interaction many Dobermanns seek. Dog sports can offer shared work without being a required achievement for every companion.
Care
Occasional bathing and regular grooming are the uncomplicated coat routine described. Family contact, appropriate activities and adult supervision around children are also part of care.
Sources & credits
- Dobermann · Wikipedia contributors · CC BY-SA 4.0 · Wikipedia text shortened, reorganized and paraphrased; independent registry facts added. Images excluded. Wikipedia-derived adaptations remain CC BY-SA 4.0; no exclusive ownership claimed. · License · Original revision / history
Dogue de Bordeaux
The Dogue de Bordeaux is a heavy, muscular French mastiff-type breed with a broad chest and shortened muzzle. Many form strong attachments to their household and have guarding tendencies.
Appearance & size
A lower-set body with strong bone and heavy muscle is central to the description. The head is broad with a short muzzle, and the chest is deep and wide.
Coat
The short, fine coat ranges from fawn to mahogany, with facial masks that can be black, brown or red.
Activity
Moderate activity and an often playful manner are described. Water play and swimming may appeal to some dogs, but are not guaranteed preferences.
Care
Allow for drooling and regular close household company. Thoughtful introductions and early social experiences matter for this substantial guardian.
Sources & credits
- Dogue de Bordeaux · Wikipedia contributors · CC BY-SA 4.0 · Wikipedia text shortened, reorganized and paraphrased; independent registry facts added. Images excluded. Wikipedia-derived adaptations remain CC BY-SA 4.0; no exclusive ownership claimed. · License · Original revision / history
Dutch Shepherd
The Dutch Shepherd is a medium-sized herding breed with a muscular build and three coat presentations. Many are alert, persistent and interested in shared work while also retaining independence.
Appearance & size
The body is well muscled and balanced, with a working rather than highly bulky outline.
Typical behavior
Many are watchful and willing to cooperate with a handler, while having the persistence to continue a task independently.
Activity
Herding and a range of searching and tracking roles establish an active working background.
Care
The short-haired variety needs occasional combing, with the exception during the shedding period in the spring and fall when a daily thorough brushing is needed. The long-haired variety needs to be groomed about once a week, or more frequently depending on work and environment.
Sources & credits
- Dutch Shepherd · Wikipedia contributors · CC BY-SA 4.0 · Wikipedia text shortened, reorganized and paraphrased; independent registry facts added. Images excluded. Wikipedia-derived adaptations remain CC BY-SA 4.0; no exclusive ownership claimed. · License · Original revision / history
English Setter
The English Setter is an elegant, active gundog with a silky coat and a long history of locating birds. Many are gentle companions who enjoy both outdoor work and relaxation with their household.
Appearance & size
A long muscular neck, raised head and hanging ears contribute to its graceful sporting outline.
Coat
The coat is silky and requires attention to tangles, with some trimming discussed around the neck, ears and feet.
Typical behavior
Many are gentle and affectionate with people, while showing alertness and enthusiasm for work or play.
Activity
Obedience and agility are among the possible shared activities.
Care
Brushing several times weekly and checking for knots are the coat routine described, with limited trimming around selected areas. An owner therefore needs time for both coat upkeep and an engaged daily life with the dog.
Sources & credits
- English Setter · Wikipedia contributors · CC BY-SA 4.0 · Wikipedia text shortened, reorganized and paraphrased; independent registry facts added. Images excluded. Wikipedia-derived adaptations remain CC BY-SA 4.0; no exclusive ownership claimed. · License · Original revision / history
English Springer Spaniel
The English Springer Spaniel is a medium-sized sporting dog with hanging ears and a flat, feathered-looking coat. Many are cheerful, people-oriented and energetic, retaining interests associated with flushing game.
Appearance & size
Long hanging ears and a kind-looking expression are familiar features. The coat and tail contribute to its recognisable silhouette.
Coat
Hair is medium in length and lies flat. Black and white or liver and white are described, with tan points making either a tricolour.
Typical behavior
Many are affectionate and easygoing socially while still being active and enthusiastic.
Activity
Obedience, agility and flyball are examples of shared outlets. Working origins make engagement important without requiring every pet to hunt or compete.
Care
Thorough regular brushing removes loose hair and knots, and trimming keeps the feet and coat tidy. Nail maintenance and routine ear inspection are mentioned.
Sources & credits
- English Springer Spaniel · Wikipedia contributors · CC BY-SA 4.0 · Wikipedia text shortened, reorganized and paraphrased; independent registry facts added. Images excluded. Wikipedia-derived adaptations remain CC BY-SA 4.0; no exclusive ownership claimed. · License · Original revision / history
English Toy Terrier (Black & Tan)
The English Toy Terrier (Black & Tan) is a small, short-coated companion with clear terrier ancestry and a lively manner. Its characteristic upright ears and dark coat with warm markings are immediately recognisable.
Appearance & size
The dog has a fine, lively outline rather than a heavy body. A slightly arched neck leads into a narrow, deep chest, and the upright ears are described through their candle-flame shape.
Coat
Hair is very short, glossy and single-coated. Black is set off by rich reddish-brown markings.
Typical behavior
Many are alert, faithful and intelligent, with a zest for household life.
Activity
Limited space can suit it, provided time with people is maintained. Its relatively modest exercise description is not equivalent to recommending no outings or a life spent alone in a yard.
Care
The short coat needs little brushing. A damp cloth can tidy the surface, and bathing is described as necessary only occasionally.
Sources & credits
Estrela Mountain Dog
The Estrela Mountain Dog is a large Portuguese guardian breed with either a long or short coat. Its traditional job was protecting livestock and mountain homesteads.
Appearance & size
A substantial mastiff-type body and brisk movement form the general description. Male shoulder heights are listed as 65–73 cm and female heights as 62–69 cm, with a stated tolerance of an additional 2 cm.
Coat
The outer hair is abundant and somewhat coarse, over fine dense undercoat that may be lighter in colour. Long-coated dogs have straighter or slightly waved hair, with greater length around the neck, tail and thighs.
Typical behavior
Many are calm with familiar people yet vigilant about the territory they guard.
Care
Early and continued social experience is emphasised, especially around other dogs and small household animals. Consistent training and owner involvement matter for an independent, powerful guardian.
Sources & credits
- Estrela Mountain Dog · Wikipedia contributors · CC BY-SA 4.0 · Wikipedia text shortened, reorganized and paraphrased; independent registry facts added. Images excluded. Wikipedia-derived adaptations remain CC BY-SA 4.0; no exclusive ownership claimed. · License · Original revision / history
