Category: dog-breed-variation

Goldendoodles have really taken the limelight in the hybrid dog world. This designer breed is a favorite of canine lovers everywhere. You probably see them all over the place— walking down the street, playing at dog parks, and cheerfully peering over a fence in someone’s yard.

They have gained popularity due to their less allergenic coats and amiable characters. While they come in many coat colors, the white form might have caught your eye. We agree these are beautiful animals. Here, we’ll learn a little more about the breed’s history.

Breed Overview

A Goldendoodle is a hybrid between a Golden Retriever and a Poodle. These are two trendy and intelligent dogs that are used for a variety of emotional, utility, and service purposes. Combining the two gives you a more allergy-friendly, interesting-looking pup.

It’s no wonder that they are a favorite everywhere. The white Goldendoodle is simply a coat color variation. Nothing about the personality or physical makeup of the Goldendoodle changes based on coat color.

Goldendoodle Characteristics

The Earliest Records of White Goldendoodles in History 

The Goldendoodle was first created in 1969, but the breed started rapidly developing in the mid-1990s. Since white is one of the most popular official Poodle colors, it’s no wonder they show up in Goldendoodle litters so often. The rarity of the white color will depend on the generation of the Goldendoodle, and prices might reflect that.

How White Goldendoodles Gained Popularity 

The Goldendoodle became attractive to many canine lovers for a variety of reasons. Breeders love the endless possibilities of appearance and overall temperament. These dogs fit growing families, as they have agreeable and loving temperaments with ideal energy levels.

Goldendoodles also became popular because they shed less than traditional canines. Many mild to moderate allergy sufferers can have Goldendoodles with little to no irritation. While there might have been some confusion about this at first, many are now learning about generations.

Certain Goldendoodle generations are less likely to shed than others. Often, Goldendoodles with more of the Poodle influence will carry this non-shedding characteristic.

Formal Recognition of White Goldendoodles

Since a Goldendoodle is a hybrid breed, technically a mixed breed, they are not formally recognized by the AKC. However, Goldendoodles are recognized by their very own association—the Goldendoodle Association of North America (GANA).

GANA is a nonprofit organization that was established in 2009. The entire goal of this association is to put official guidelines in place for breeders to develop this hybrid to the best of their ability. They focus on overall structure, temperament, health, and coat.

White is a coat color found in all accepted Goldendoodle varieties.

Top 6 Unique Facts About Goldendoodles

If you love the white Goldendoodle due to its snowy and beautiful appearance, you might want to know more about what it’s like to own one. Here are some fun facts every Goldendoodle lover should know.

1. Goldendoodles Are Ideal Family Companions

Goldendoodles can make wonderfully charming additions to many families. Because of their lineage, they combine two notoriously good dogs with growing children and adults alike.

Since they have such high energy levels, they often make extremely good playmates for kids as they tend to be gentle while still being very playful. They also are conscious enough to understand limitations, even if they can be a little stubborn or difficult to train initially.

Because of their strong bonds with people, they can also make extremely good emotional support or service animals.

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2. No Goldendoodle Is Truly Hypoallergenic

Contrary to popular marketing, this breed is not truly hypoallergenic. In fact, many Goldendoodles still shed quite profusely. So what is up with the false proclamation? Goldendoodles are far more hypoallergenic than some other breeds.

However, this is not always true. Having a dog that sheds less can alleviate much suffering for mild allergy sufferers. You have to keep in mind that Goldendoodles are a mix of two parent breeds.

While Poodles are classically “hypoallergenic” dogs, Golden Retrievers are far from it. In fact, Golden Retrievers shed year around and can cause quite a few problems for those with sensitivities.

Breeding practices are still trying to perfect the breed; different generations of Goldendoodles can provoke various allergic responses, depending on their lineage and which parent they take after.

So you should never buy a Goldendoodle presuming that it won’t affect someone in the house with allergies. This is often misleading and can cause unnecessary rehoming for innocent pups at no fault of their own.

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3. Goldendoodles Have Multiple Generations

You might think that the Goldendoodle is one size fits all. However, they have multiple generations, each with their own genetic twists.

Having these multi-generations will take specific physical and mental traits from each parent, achieving different results.

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4. Goldendoodles Come in Different Sizes

Goldendoodles come in three different sizes, thanks to the Poodle influence. You could have a miniature, standard, or large. Each one of them varies in height and weight.

If you prefer one particular size over another, pick the right breeder. Some of them offer puppies of all of these variations, while others specialize in a specific size.

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5. Goldendoodles Come in Many Other Colors

We know you’re a fan of the white Goldendoodle! But that’s not the only colors that exist. There are several that are pretty common and others that are rare.

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6. Goldendoodles Can Have Digestive Problems

People might rave about Goldendoodles, as they are very attractive to potential owners for various reasons. However, we would be remiss if we didn’t mention the downfalls. One of which is that Goldendoodles have a problem with their digestive systems.

Not all of them will be affected, but the Poodle parent is known for their sensitive stomachs and potential allergies. These health issues can extend to the Goldendoodle puppy, resulting in food sensitivities, high vet bills, and hard-to-diagnose intestinal problems.

Plus, Goldendoodles are big chewers, putting them at increased risk of having an intestinal blockage.

Does a Goldendoodle Make a Good Pet?

Goldendoodles make terrific pets for the right families. However, they make potentially incompatible companions for some. Let’s touch on some of the positives first!

Conclusion 

If a white Goldendoodle sounds perfect for your home—it’s time to start the puppy search! Bringing home a new dog can be so exciting! We hope you’ve learned quite a lot about the history of the breed.

The Goldendoodle is evolving over time, becoming even more solidified in its own right. While they are not accepted by any major breeder associations yet, their popularity seems ever flourishing.

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Featured Image Credit: Maria Surtu, Shutterstock

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Miniature Schnauzers are a popular dog breed with a distinguished appearance. Many describe the dog as having a mustache with longer fur around their muzzle. The Miniature Schnauzer’s wiry coat comes in three main colors: black, black and silver, and salt and pepper.

Many people adore the black Miniature Schnauzer, as their jet-black coat creates a stunning appearance. If you want to learn more about this remarkable dog, keep reading below.

Breed Overview

The black Miniature Schnauzer is no different in personality than their black and silver or salt and pepper counterparts. They are beloved for their keen intelligence and friendly disposition, which explain why they are so popular. They are also famous for their spunky personalities and robust physique.

Black Miniature Schnauzers are not exactly rare, but they can be difficult to find. That is because the coat must be entirely black without a lighter undercoat color. However, according to the American Kennel Club breed standard, there is an exception for a small spot of white on the chest or a stray strand of white.

Miniature Schnauzer Characteristics

The Earliest Records of the Black Miniature Schnauzer in History

The Miniature Schnauzer was bred from the Standard Schnauzer, whose roots can be traced back to 15^th-century Europe. Miniature Schnauzers are the result of careful, calculated breeding. The Standard Schnauzer was crossed with the Affenpinscher and the Poodle to create the Miniature Schnauzer. As a result, the Miniature Schnauzer’s personality is a bit gentler than your average Terrier.

The Standard Schnauzer was put to work as a farm dog. The Miniature Schnauzer was created to fulfill the desire for a more compact farming dog. Once the Miniature Schnauzer was born, they took to the barns as a rat catcher.

How the Black Miniature Schnauzer Gained Popularity

After World War II, the popularity of the Miniature Schnauzer grew. Their notoriety grew so high, in fact, that at one point, they were considered the third most popular breed in America. They were beginning to be put to the test in dog shows, and they were proving that they could stand up to the competition. Today, Miniature Schnauzers rank high in canine events such as obedience and agility. Likewise, they excel in earth dog events and rallies.

Although the Miniature Schnauzer started as a rat catcher, they have since outgrown their simple roots. In the modern era, the Miniature Schnauzer is often brought home as a companion animal rather than a working dog. Their friendly dispositions and sharp minds make them an excellent family pet. As of 2022, the Miniature Schnauzer is among the top twenty dog breeds in America.

Formal Recognition of the Black Miniature Schnauzer

The black Miniature Schnauzer is one of the three colors that follow the breed standard developed by the American Kennel Club. Therefore, the black Miniature Schnauzer is officially recognized.

Although the Miniature Schnauzer has existed for much longer, it was officially accepted as a breed in 1923. The dog had appeared in dog shows long before then, and the first recorded appearance of a Miniature Schnauzer in a dog show was in 1899. However, the breed was still lumped in with the Standard Schnauzer at this time.

The Miniature Schnauzer is considered a part of the Terrier group, but it is rather unique compared to its fellow Terriers. Unlike most Terriers, the Miniature Schnauzer has no British heritage. Instead, the Miniature Schnauzer was developed in Germany.

Top 3 Unique Facts About Black Miniature Schnauzers

1. Miniature Schnauzers Do Not Shed Much

Although the black Miniature Schnauzer has a wiry double coat, they are not known to shed often. Some consider the Miniature Schnauzer to be hypoallergenic.

Although they do not shed often, their coats need a lot of maintenance. They must be brushed frequently to remain healthy and good-looking. Similarly, their wiry coats must be stripped of the old, dead hairs.

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2. They Love Being Active, and They Love Being Lazy

If you want to enjoy the best of both worlds, being active and being lazy, your Miniature Schnauzer will be right there with you. They are excellent exercise partners packed with energy that needs to be burned off. At the same time, they are more than happy to relax on the sofa with you and watch television.

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3. They Are More Popular Than the Standard Schnauzer and the Giant Schnauzer

Although the Standard Schnauzer is the blueprint, that doesn’t mean they are the most popular breed. Instead, the Miniature Schnauzer takes first place among the Standard and Giant Schnauzers in a popularity contest.

Does the Black Miniature Schnauzer Make a Good Pet?

As mentioned before, there is no difference in the black Miniature Schnauzer’s personality compared to other Miniature Schnauzers. Therefore, the black Miniature Schnauzer is just as incredible a companion.

They are adored due to their intelligence, obedience, and exceptional temperament. The Miniature Schnauzer always wants to be around their favorite family members, and they thrive best when participating in family activities.

They behave around young children and tolerate other pets. The only concern is that young children and larger animals may accidentally injure the Miniature Schnauzer if they are not careful. Although the Miniature Schnauzer is hardy, they are still tiny. Teaching children and other animals appropriate boundaries will minimize the chances of an accident. Likewise, always supervise interactions between children and pets.

Conclusion

The black Miniature Schnauzer is a beautiful variation of the Miniature Schnauzer. They are often seen with a pure black coat, but they can have the occasional spot of white. Though they may be similar to the black and silver or salt and pepper Miniature Schnauzer, it is impossible to deny that the jet-black coat is uniquely alluring.

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Featured Image Credit: Anna Zhidkova, Shutterstock

The post Black Miniature Schnauzer: Pictures, Facts & History appeared first on Pet Keen.

Nicknamed the Gray Ghost for its signature gray coat, the Weimaraner is typically known as a short-haired breed. This lanky, athletic hunting dog is versatile on the field but loves chilling at home at your side too. The Long-haired Weimaraner is the same in all the places that matter except their luxuriant gray-silver coat. Let’s learn some more about that and much more about this majestic German hound down below.

Breed Overview

Weimaraners are a fairly rare dog breed to begin with, and Long-haired Weimaraners are even rarer. Their blue-gray coats are gorgeous and unlike any other breed, and their intense loyalty makes them great family dogs for seasoned dog owners that can handle their stubborn streak.

Longhaired Weimaraner Breed Characteristics

The Earliest Records of Long-haired Weimaraner in History

The Weimaraner is a pretty young breed to have such an aristocratic look, with earliest records indicating they were bred from various hounds across central Europe to hunt game. They were great at chasing, flushing, and retrieving, and their boundless energy only helped. Mostly owned by nobles, the Weimaraner bloodline was coveted by huntsmen across central Europe.

The most notable patron of Weimaraners was Grand Duke Karl August, who imported different hounds from across the continent to develop a more refined and flexible hunting dog. In fact, the very name “Weimaraner” comes from the Weimar region where Duke August reigned because of his love for the breed.

How Long-haired Weimaraner Gained Popularity

The Weimaraner enjoyed a long life as a hunting dog but was threatened by the advent of WWI. It declined during the postwar years and eventually made its way to the US in the ‘30s or ‘40s. They became very popular among sportsmen and as family dogs, and their unique look was adored.

During this time the Long-haired Weimaraner was a lesser-known variety that was rare among a rare breed—more of a curiosity than anything. Today, the Long-haired Weimaraner is a highly sought-after breed that’s hard to find but makes a great companion once you pay the steep price to acquire one for yourself.

Formal Recognition of Long-haired Weimaraners

The Weimaraner was formally recognized by the AKC in 1943 after being smuggled out of Germany by some devotees of the breed. At this time, there were very few Long-haired Weimaraners to speak of, so the AKC never recognized them. However, the Long-haired Weimaraners have been formally recognized by other kennel clubs across the globe, including the UKC and the CKC.

Top 7 Unique Facts About Long-haired Weimaraners

1. Puppies start off tiger-striped

Weimaraner puppies are born with tiger-like stripes that fade away just a few days after birth.

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2. Barn Hunting Champions

The very first championship for the sport of barn hunting was won by a Weimaraner named Lexi.

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3. They’re speedy

Weimaraners are one of the fastest dogs—they’ve been recorded at speeds up to 35 mph!

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4. Weimaraners have adorable habits

They have a unique stimming-like habit called “nooking” where they gently suck and knead on toys or bedding in their home.

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5. Genetic matter for long-coats

Long-haired Weimaraners are typically only born when two parents with the same recessive long-haired gene breed.

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6. They heads are shaped different than other dogs

Weimaraners have small, bony hornlike “trumpets” on the sides of their heads.

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7. This breed has famous ties!

US President Dwight Eisenhower owned a very photogenic Weimaraner named Heidi, who according to urban legend, is the only presidential dog ever banned from the White House.

Does a Long-haired Weimaraner Make a Good Pet?

Absolutely, but ideally, we recommend a Long-haired Weimaraner for an experienced dog owner who knows how to handle their explosive energy and bright intelligence. They’re gentle and tolerant of small kids and get along well with other dogs too, but they don’t typically get along well with cats. Prey animals like rabbits are a definite no-go as well. Other than that, we must emphasize that Long-haired Weimaraners are very high-energy dogs, so you need to make sure they get at least 1 to 2 hours of exercise a day.

Conclusion

Long-haired Weimaraners are hard to come by unless you go looking for a breeder that specializes in them, although they’re technically not AKC recognized. This aristocratic Gray Ghost is one of the most striking and loyal dogs you can have, and their nose is unmatched.

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Featured Image Credit: David_Chrastek, Shutterstock

The post Long-Haired Weimaraner: History & Facts (With Pictures) appeared first on Pet Keen.