Behind the Breed: Bulldog

In this series we will profile breeds registered with the American Kennel Club to give dog owners some ideas of what to expect of their dog. At Denver Dog Works we work with a network of breeders and with 20 years experience and training thousands of dogs we can help the new dog owner choose a breed that is right for you, your family and lifestyle.

Behind the Breed: Bulldog

Bulldog

Trainers Note: My dad was a U.S. Marine and when I was growing up these dogs were very popular on the military bases that we spent a lot of time on. While I have only trained a few of them over the years I enjoy the challenge.

Known for their loose-jointed, shuffling gait and massive, short-faced head, the Bulldog is known to be equable, resolute and dignified. A medium-sized dog, they are not your typical lap dog, but would like to be! They are one of the most popular breeds according to AKC® Registration Statistics due to their lovable and gentle dispositions and adorable wrinkles. The Bulldog may be brindle, white, red, fawn, fallow or piebald.

A Look Back
Said to have originated in the British Isles, the name “bull” was applied because of the dog’s connection with bull baiting. The original bulldog had to be ferocious and courageous, and almost insensitive to pain. When dog fighting became illegal in England, fanciers set to the task of preserving the breed by eliminating the fierce characteristics. Within a few generations, the Bulldog became one of the finest physical specimens with an agreeable temperament.

Right Breed for You?
Bulldogs are recognized as excellent family pets because of their tendency to form strong bonds with children. They tend to be gentle and protective. The breed requires minimal grooming and exercise. Their short nose makes them prone to overheating in warm weather, so make sure to provide a shady place to rest.

• Non-Sporting Group; AKC recognized in 1886.
• Ranging in size from 40 to 50 pounds.
• Family companion.

© The American Kennel Club, Inc. http://www.akc.org

Robert Forto | Team Ineka | Alaska Dog Works | Mushing Radio | Dog Works Radio | Denver Dog Works

___________________

Dr. Robert Forto the owner of Denver Dog Works and Alaska Dog Works, is a musher training for his first Iditarod under the Team Ineka banner and the host of the popular radio shows, Mush! You Huskies and Dog Works Radio Shows

 

Behind the Breed: Belgian Malinois

In this series we will profile breeds registered with the American Kennel Club to give dog owners some ideas of what to expect of their dog. At Denver Dog Works we work with a network of breeders and with 20 years experience and training thousands of dogs we can help the new dog owner choose a breed that is right for you, your family and lifestyle.

Behind the Breed: Belgian Malinois

Belgian Malinois

Trainers Note: We have trained several Belgian Malinois’ over the years and most recently one stayed with us for the better part of the summer while his owner was serving in Afghanistan. Linux was an exceptional dog. Malinois can do just about anything. They are used for many jobs throughout the world in the areas of police work, search and rescue, tracking and protection training. These dogs are highly intelligent and have the drive to go with it. These dogs will need a lot of exercise and training and a “job to do.”

One of the four types of Belgian sheepherding dogs, the Belgian Malinois is an alert, high-energy breed, popular as both a police and military working dog. Although sometimes mistaken for the German Shepherd Dog, the Malinois is more elegant in build and lighter-boned, but does not lack for strength, agility or herding ability. Active participants in conformation, obedience, schutzhund, herding, sledding, and tracking, the breed ranges in color from rich fawn to mahogany, with black tips on the hairs and a black mask and ears.

A Look Back

Developed in the city of Malines, where it got its name, the Malinois shares a common foundation with the Belgian Sheepdog and the Belgian Tervuren. In fact, the Belgian dogs share a breed standard in all countries except the United States. The original breeders prized the Malinois’ working character, and historically, the breed has been the favorite type of Belgian Shepherd in its native country.

Right Breed for You?
Intelligent and trainable, the Belgian Malinois possesses a strong desire to work and is happiest with regular activity and a job to do. A relatively easy keeper due to their medium size and short coat, this confident breed loves their families, but may be somewhat reserved with strangers. They are naturally protective of their owners without being overly aggressive.

• Herding Group; AKC recognized in 1959.
• Ranging in size from 22 to 26 inches tall at the shoulder.
• Sheep herder.

© The American Kennel Club, Inc. http://www.akc.org

Robert Forto | Team Ineka | Alaska Dog Works | Mushing Radio | Dog Works Radio | Denver Dog Works

___________________

Dr. Robert Forto the owner of Denver Dog Works and Alaska Dog Works, is a musher training for his first Iditarod under the Team Ineka banner and the host of the popular radio shows, Mush! You Huskies and Dog Works Radio Shows

Behind the Breed: Siberian Husky

In this series we will profile breeds registered with the American Kennel Club to give dog owners some ideas of what to expect of their dog. At Denver Dog Works we work with a network of breeders and with 20 years experience and training thousands of dogs we can help the new dog owner choose a breed that is right for you, your family and lifestyle.

Behind the Breed: Siberian Husky

Siberian Husky

Trainers Note: As many of you know the Siberian Husky of Sibe as we call them have been a huge part of my life since getting my first one in 1987. His name was Axl (after the singer in Guns and Roses who was hugely popular at the time). This breed has captured my heart the primary reason I am a trainer today. I have competed in many events with my Sibes over the years including conformation, obedience, weight pulls, Canine Good Citizen, Service and Therapy work, and of course dog sledding. My plans are to run a competitive team of Siberians in the Iditarod in the near future.

Bred in Northeast Asia as a sled dog, the Siberian Husky is known for its amazing endurance and willingness to work. Its agreeable and outgoing temperament makes it a great all-around dog, suitable for anything from sledding to therapy work. Because it originated in cold climates, Siberians have a thicker coat then most other breeds of dog, made up of a dense cashmere-like undercoat and a longer, coarse top coat. All colors from black to pure white are allowed, and a variety of markings on the head is common.

A Look Back
The Siberian Husky is widely believed to have originated from within the Chukchi Tribe, off the eastern Siberian peninsula. These dogs were used in 1908 for the All-Alaskan Sweepstakes, which consisted of a 408 mile long dogsled race, and served in the Army’s Arctic Search and Rescue Unit during World War II.

Right Breed for You?
Siberians are relatively easy keepers, but their thick coats require weekly brushing. New owners should be prepared to provide an outlet for exercise daily, whether through walks or an enclosed space in which to run. Predatory instincts are strong, so Siberians should be supervised around small animals in and around the home.

• Working Group; AKC recognized in 1930.
• Ranging in size from 20 to 23 ½ inches tall at the shoulder and 35 to 60 pounds.
• Sled dog.

© The American Kennel Club, Inc. http://www.akc.org

Robert Forto | Team Ineka | Alaska Dog Works | Mushing Radio | Dog Works Radio | Denver Dog Works

___________________

Dr. Robert Forto the owner of Denver Dog Works and Alaska Dog Works, is a musher training for his first Iditarod under the Team Ineka banner and the host of the popular radio shows, Mush! You Huskies and Dog Works Radio Shows

 

Behind the Breed: Pug

In this series we will profile breeds registered with the American Kennel Club to give dog owners some ideas of what to expect of their dog. At Denver Dog Works we work with a network of breeders and with 20 years experience and training thousands of dogs we can help the new dog owner choose a breed that is right for you, your family and lifestyle.

Behind the Breed: Pug

Pug

Trainers Note: Even though I am not a small dog guy, I have always liked the Pug and the designer breed off-shoot, the Puggle. The Pug is an even-tempered breed, exhibiting stability, playfulness, great charm, dignity, and an outgoing, loving disposition.

The Pug is well described by the phrase “multum in parvo” which means “a lot of dog in a small space.” They are recognized for their even-tempers, playful personalities, and their outgoing, loving dispositions. This square and cobby breed comes in fawn, silver fawn, apricot fawn or black, with a well-defined “mask” on his muzzle. A popular companion dog, the pug also excels in the show ring.

A Look Back
The Pug is one of the oldest breeds of dogs and has flourished since before 400 BC. Most researchers agree that the breed comes from Asia, due to its similarities to the Pekingese. China is the earliest known source for Pugs, where they were pets of the Buddhist monasteries in Tibet. The breed next appeared in Japan and Europe, becoming popular when Prince William II became the King of England. He owned Pugs and they became the fashionable breed for generations.

 

Right Breed for You?
The Pug’s reason for living is to be near their people and to please them, and their sturdiness makes them a family favorite. They are comfortable in small apartments because they need minimal exercise, but the breed can adapt easily to all situations. The Pug sheds, but its short coat requires little grooming.

• Toy Group; AKC recognized in 1885.
• Weighting between 14 to 18 pounds.

• Companion dog.

© The American Kennel Club, Inc. http://www.akc.org

Robert Forto | Team Ineka | Alaska Dog Works | Mushing Radio | Dog Works Radio | Denver Dog Works

___________________

Dr. Robert Forto the owner of Denver Dog Works and Alaska Dog Works, is a musher training for his first Iditarod under the Team Ineka banner and the host of the popular radio shows, Mush! You Huskies and Dog Works Radio Shows

 

 

Behind the Breed: Poodle

In this series we will profile breeds registered with the American Kennel Club to give dog owners some ideas of what to expect of their dog. At Denver Dog Works we work with a network of breeders and with 20 years experience and training thousands of dogs we can help the new dog owner choose a breed that is right for you, your family and lifestyle.

Trainers Note: Many trainers will tell you that the Poodle is the smartest dog they have ever trained. I agree. I have worked with several over the years and they are an absolute joy to work with. Carrying himself proudly, very active, intelligent, the Poodle has about him an air of distinction and dignity peculiar to himself. Major fault: shyness or sharpness.

Poodle

Poodle

The Poodle, though often equated to the beauty with no brains, is exceptionally smart, active and excels in obedience training. The breed comes in three size varieties, which may contribute to why Poodle is one of the most popular breeds according to AKC® Registration statistics. Poodles can be a variety of solid colors, including white, black, apricot and gray, but never parti-colored.

A Look Back
The breed originated in Germany as a water retriever. The stylish “Poodle clip” was designed by hunters to help the dogs move through the water more efficiently. The patches of hair left on the body are meant to protect vital organs and joints which are susceptible to cold. The Standard variety is the oldest of the three varieties. The Miniature variety may have been used for truffle hunting. The Toy Poodle was often used in performances and circuses.

Right Breed for You?
The Poodle can accommodate nearly any size living quarters. His hypoallergenic coat may reduce allergic reactions, but requires regular professional grooming. The Poodle is an active breed and requires daily exercise.

If you are considering purchasing a Poodle puppy, learn more here.

• Non-Sporting (Standard and Miniature) and Toy (Toy) Groups; AKC recognized in 1887.
• Standard: over 15 inches tall at the shoulder; Miniature: over 10 but under 15 inches; Toy: 10 inches or under.
• Water retriever, companion.

© The American Kennel Club, Inc. http://www.akc.org

Robert Forto | Team Ineka | Alaska Dog Works | Mushing Radio | Dog Works Radio | Denver Dog Works

___________________

Dr. Robert Forto the owner of Denver Dog Works and Alaska Dog Works, is a musher training for his first Iditarod under the Team Ineka banner and the host of the popular radio shows, Mush! You Huskies and Dog Works Radio Shows

Behind the Breed: English Springer Spaniel

In this series we will profile breeds registered with the American Kennel Club to give dog owners some ideas of what to expect of their dog. At Denver Dog Works we work with a network of breeders and with 20 years experience and training thousands of dogs we can help the new dog owner choose a breed that is right for you, your family and lifestyle.

Trainers Note: The Springer was the first breed I ever bought on my own. His name was Barney and I bought him when I was 15 years old. I loved this breed. I remember getting a pup for Christmas when I was about 10 and he was a Springer named Beau. The typical Springer is friendly, eager to please, quick to learn and willing to obey. Aggression toward people and aggression toward other dogs is not in keeping with sporting dog character and purpose and is not acceptable.

Springer Spaniel

 

English Springer Spaniel

The English Springer Spaniel has been endowed with style, enthusiasm, and an “eager to please” quality common to most spaniels. He is recognized for his ability to keep going and going under adverse hunting conditions, which is partly due to his medium-sized, powerful body. He has long, hanging ears and a moderately long coat that can be black or liver with white, blue or liver roan, and tricolor.

A Look Back
English Springer Spaniels and Cocker Spaniels were originally born in the same litters; the smaller “Cockers” hunted woodcock while their larger littermates were utilized to flush, or “spring,” game. In 1902 the Kennel Club of England recognized the English Springer Spaniel as a distinct breed (separate from English Cockers). The Springer Spaniel became even better known in North America after 1924, when the English Springer Spaniel Field Trial Association was formed and field trials were started for the first time.

Right Breed for You?
Cheerful and affectionate, Springers love their families and like to stick close to their owners. They make excellent house pets, but require daily exercise and need regular brushing and trimming to keep their coats neat and free of mats.

• Sporting Group; AKC recognized in 1910.
• Average size: 40 to 50 pounds and 19 to 20 inches tall at the shoulder.
• Gun dog, versatile competitor.

© The American Kennel Club, Inc. http://www.akc.org

Robert Forto | Team Ineka | Alaska Dog Works | Mushing Radio | Dog Works Radio | Denver Dog Works

___________________

Dr. Robert Forto the owner of Denver Dog Works and Alaska Dog Works, is a musher training for his first Iditarod under the Team Ineka banner and the host of the popular radio shows, Mush! You Huskies and Dog Works Radio Shows

 

Behind the Breed: German Shepherd Dog

In this series we will profile breeds registered with the American Kennel Club to give dog owners some ideas of what to expect of their dog. At Denver Dog Works we work with a network of breeders and with 20 years experience and training thousands of dogs we can help the new dog owner choose a breed that is right for you, your family and lifestyle.

Trainers Note: The German Shepherd has become our choice for our service dog training program for many reasons. Mainly for the stability of the temperament, intelligence and stamina of the breed. Please note that there are many differences from the American standard and the European standard and it often leads to much confusion. Please do your homework.

German Shepherd Dog

The German Shepherd Dog

The German Shepherd Dog is hailed as the world’s leading police, guard and military dog, however, this dependable breed is more than its 9-to-5 job. Consistently one of the United States’ most popular breeds according to AKC® Registration Statistics, the German Shepherd Dog is also a loving family companion, herder and show competitor. The breed is approachable, direct and fearless, with a strong, muscular body. The GSD may be most colors, but most commonly is black and tan.

A Look Back
The German Shepherd Dog originated in 1899 at Karlsruhe, Germany due to the efforts of Captain Max von Stephanitz and others. Derived from the old breeds of herding and farm dogs, the first German Shepherd Dog exhibited in America was in 1907. The fame associated with Rin-Tin-Tin and Strongheart, two members of the breed whose movies played on variations of the boy and his dog theme, shot the popularity of the breed sky-high.

Right Breed for Your Lifestyle
Energetic and fun-loving, the breed is very fond of children once a relationship is established. He is a loyal family pet and a good guard dog, the ideal choice for many families. He requires regular exercise and grooming.

Learn more about purchasing a German Shepherd Dog puppy.

• Herding Group; AKC recognized in 1908.
• Ranging in size from 22 to 26 inches tall at the shoulder.
• Herding, police work.

© The American Kennel Club, Inc. http://www.akc.org

Robert Forto | Team Ineka | Alaska Dog Works | Mushing Radio | Dog Works Radio | Denver Dog Works

___________________

Dr. Robert Forto the owner of Denver Dog Works and Alaska Dog Works, is a musher training for his first Iditarod under the Team Ineka banner and the host of the popular radio shows, Mush! You Huskies and Dog Works Radio Shows

 

 

I just got a new dog! Now what? Steps 3-5

Michele Forto is the lead trainer at Denver Dog Works

Step Three: I’m standing just inside my front door with my new dog on leash what’s next?  Do not unleash him.  Instead take him into each and every room and place him on a sit, walk him around that room letting him smell his surroundings, if he becomes overly interested in any one object – gently tell him “leave it” when he looks up at you or goes to the next thing praise him for leaving alone what you asked him to leave alone.  Manners and boundaries are key to teaching your new dog how you expect him to behave and treat his new home.  Boundaries are set by you showing him where he can be and what he can touch and what he cannot touch.  Manners involves him learning to sit politely and patiently for attention/affection without jumping up.  It also involves him learning to follow you through doorways and stairways instead of racing and pushing past you to get through first.

[ Rewind: I Just Got a New Dog! Now What? Steps 1-2 ]

Step Four: You’ve successfully introduced your new dog to your home, it’s time for some exercise and love.  Take your dog outside to your backyard and let him do his business.  I personally choose to teach my dogs to potty on command on leash first so I can ensure that they use the bathroom in the same place every time.  This is up to you.  Once he’s done his business – begin playing a game with your new dog.  This incorporates affection and exercise at the same time and is highly stimulating for your dog.  Be sure to win all games (W.A.G.) and end the session if your dog becomes overly excited and/or agitated by simply asking him to sit, take away the toys and tell him “all done”.  If he refuses to end the game, replace his leash and go back to step two and step three.

Step Five: Training = Control for you and routine for your dog.  You’ve had your dog for 24 hours, you’ve already began his training routine and didn’t even know it!  There’s no time like the present to begin a specific training routine.  Training can get pretty boring and can become very repetitive – even though I am a trainer, I recommend seeking out a trainer to help keep you on task, deal with difficult situations and to help you gain ground avoiding plateau’s.

There are many trainers to choose from out there – do your research, remember your list of goals, and discuss with each trainer your plans and how they can best help you obtain those goals.

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Michele Forto is the lead trainer at Denver Dog Works and the co-host of the popular Dog Works Radio Show.

Behind the Breed: Doberman Pinscher

In this series we will profile breeds registered with the American Kennel Club to give dog owners some ideas of what to expect of their dog. At Denver Dog Works we work with a network of breeders and with 20 years experience and training thousands of dogs we can help the new dog owner choose a breed that is right for you, your family and lifestyle.

Trainers Notes: I remember my first introduction to a Dobbie when I was young and my aunt had one. She was one of the most lovable dogs that I have ever been around. Energetic, watchful, determined, alert, fearless, loyal and obedient. You should be very cautious before bringing in a very cautious or shy Doberman into your family as it is not indicative of the breed.

Doberman Pinscher

Doberman Pinscher

A square, medium-sized dog, the Doberman Pinscher is muscular and possesses great endurance and speed. He is elegant in appearance and reflects great nobility and temperament. The properly bred and trained Doberman has proved itself to be a friend and guardian, and his intelligence and ability to absorb and retain training have brought him into demand as a police and war dog. The Doberman’s short, hard coat can be black, red, blue and fawn.

A Look Back
Although the roots of the breed are relatively obscure, it is thought that the Doberman Pinscher originated in Germany around 1900, taking its name from tax collector Louis Dobermann of Apolda, who desired a medium size dog to perform as a guard dog as well as companion. Breeds utilized to develop the Doberman Pinscher may have included the old shorthaired shepherd, Rottweiler, Black and Tan Terrier and the German Pinscher.

Right Breed for You?
The Doberman Pinscher is known to be energetic, watchful, fearless and obedient. He is ready to give prompt alarm (and back up that warning) but is also affectionate, obedient and loyal. The breed requires regular exercise, but needs only minimal grooming for his short coat.

If you are considering purchasing a Doberman Pinscher puppy, learn more here.

• Working Group; AKC recognized in 1908.
• Ranging in size from 24 to 28 inches tall at the shoulder.
• Guardian, family companion.

© The American Kennel Club, Inc. http://www.akc.org

Robert Forto | Team Ineka | Alaska Dog Works | Mushing Radio | Dog Works Radio | Denver Dog Works

___________________

Dr. Robert Forto the owner of Denver Dog Works and Alaska Dog Works, is a musher training for his first Iditarod under the Team Ineka banner and the host of the popular radio shows, Mush! You Huskies and Dog Works Radio Shows

I just got a new dog? Now what? Steps 1-2

Michele Forto is the lead trainer at Denver Dog Works

Whether your dog is just eight weeks old or a rescued dog that you’re not sure how old he is or what’s he’s been through.  Now is the time to introduce good habits show your dog what is expected of him and how you plan to interact with him in his new life.

A good place to start is to write down some things you’d like to do with your dog.  Call a local trainer and discuss with him/her what your goals are and ask specific questions about how they can help you obtain those goals.  A training plan should be developed to build from a basic introduction of obedience commands to those that will be of most use to reaching your goals.

Step One: Introduce a flat collar and a six-foot lead.  Even if the dog is older chances are that he may not have ever been placed on a six-foot lead or a flat collar.  In the beginning, it doesn’t matter if you are able to walk around the block or walk 3 miles with your new dog.  What matters is that you are teaching your dog to stay close to you.  I like to describe to people that they are holding hands with their dog.  The walk shouldn’t be about a power struggle.  It should be pleasurable for the both of you.  Encourage your dog, again no matter the age, to follow you, turn when you do, and to walk with you at your pace rather than running some kind of race.  Walking your dog is not a competition.

Step Two: Welcome your new dog to your home.  What exactly does that mean?  Well, I have several clients who have asked me to complete board and trains with their dogs and what I noticed the biggest issue to be was that when we bring a dog home at 8 weeks or 8 months we usually get overly emotional and literally say out loud “welcome to YOUR new home!”  Believe or not you just placed your dog in the alpha role and boy is he happy to have received this ranking without having to earn it!  The first thing you should do is Step One – then walk, do not carry no matter how small, your dog to your front door, place him on a sit telling him good boy, then open the door, ask him to wait while you step over the threshold and then invite him in while you say “welcome to MY home, this is where you’ll be loved, nourished, exercised, and taught how to be the best dog in the world.” Viola! Instant respect, you just let your new dog know that he has to earn everything in his life.  There will be testing remain steadfast.

Tomorrow: Steps 3-5

Michele Forto is the lead trainer at Denver Dog Works and the co-host of the popular Dog Works Radio Show.