Here Are 15 Exotic Animals Trying To Take The Best Pet Title Away From Dogs

We here at BarkPost have never questioned that dogs are the absolute best, but it never hurts to review why. So we decided to see how some of the more exotic pets stack up against man’s best friend. Meet 15 pets that prove dogs are the best friend a person could have.

1. The Scorpion

Not to start off with the obvious, but really? A poisonous arachnid? Do I even need to say why dogs are better than a venomous, creepy, eight-legged insect? I didn’t think so. Next!

To read more on this story, click here: Here Are 15 Exotic Animals Trying To Take The Best Pet Title Away From Dogs

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Disease Risks for Dogs in Social Settings

The following is a list of the most common diseases to which your dog(s) may be exposed at a dog gathering. There may be specific risks in your area that are not listed. For more information about specific diseases in your area, consult your veterinarian.

People can also spread some diseases (such as mange, ringworm, kennel cough and canine influenza) from dog to dog through shared brushes, collars, bedding, etc. or by petting or handling an infected dog before petting or handling another dog.

To read more on this story, click here: Disease Risks for Dogs in Social Settings

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Tips for Keeping Your Dog Safe This Summer

Summer is the time to have outdoor fun with our dogs. Longer walks in the park, ambitious hikes, beach days, or family travel — the sun is shining, and the outdoors is calling. But hot weather can also make us uncomfortable, and it poses special risks for dogs. From an increased exposure to ticks and other insects, to sunburn, and even heatstroke, all sorts of things can go wrong for your dog in summer. Keep the following safety concerns in mind as the temperature rises, and follow our tips for summer safety for dogs. They will help you keep your pet happier and healthier during the dog days of summer.

To read more on this story, click here: Tips for Keeping Your Dog Safe This Summer

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Police Dog Gets Fired From K-9 Job For Being Too Cute And Friendly, Later Gets An Even Better Job

When it comes to the qualities of a good police dog, we have to mention their intelligence, aggression, strength, and sense of smell. They are specifically trained to assist police and other law-enforcement personnel. For this reason, if a dog is too cute and friendly, he is just not for this type of work.

Meet Gavel, the adorable German shepherd who was fired from k-9 job for being too friendly. Yup, instead of sniffing out explosives or tackling suspects for the Queensland Police Service in Brisbane, Eastern Australia, Gavel was more interested in getting belly tickles and cuddles from strangers.

To read more on this story, click here: Police Dog Gets Fired From K-9 Job For Being Too Cute And Friendly, Later Gets An Even Better Job

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Dog Paw Problems: What You Can Do About Them

The eyes are windows to the soul, but your dog’s paws might be windows to his well-being. They provide a prominent place for health issues to reveal themselves to you and your vet.

“Dogs feet are generally hardy, and minor cuts and abrasions usually heal quickly,” says Dr. Neil Marrinan of Old Lyme Veterinary Hospital in Old Lyme, Conn. But some injuries and conditions need your vet’s attention. Dr. Marrinan and Dr. Brett Levitzke, medical director of the Veterinary Emergency and Referral Group, Brooklyn, N.Y., describe some common paw problems and what pet parents can do about them.

Fungal Infections

Yeast organisms (fungi) are normally found on your dog’s paws, but an underlying condition can cause them to multiply and cause problems. Licking excessively is a tell-tale sign of a yeast infection, Levitzke says, along with red nail beds, a reaction to salivary enzymes. Other symptoms include itching, redness and discharge.

Yeast infections are often secondary to allergy, the doctors say, with the most likely culprit atopic dermatitis. However, environmental or food allergies also could be to blame. “The vast majority of dog paw problems are skin problems that are worse at the feet,” Marrinan says.

Your vet can test the area to determine if yeast is the culprit and treat the infection with topical products, antifungal wipes and shampoos. If these treatments don’t do the trick, the underlying allergy may need to be addressed with antihistamines, steroids or anti-itch medications, Levitzke says. If a food allergy is suspected, elimination diets—where ingredients are taken out and then added back in—can help identify the trigger.

Ringworm, a fungus found in soil or brought in from other animals, plants or from dog parks, also can infect your dog’s feet, and is not actually a worm or a ring. “It can look like a swollen toe or an abscess,” Marrinan says. Your vet will examine a sample of hair or skin under a microscope or send it to a lab for diagnosis. You can treat ringworm and prevent its spread with medicated bath products and a thorough cleaning of your dog’s environment. Ringworm is contagious and may spread to humans or other pets.

Bacterial Infections

Like yeast, bacterial organisms also are normally found on your dog’s paws, but a secondary health condition can cause them to multiply excessively. Symptoms include licking/biting, redness, swelling, pain/itching and abscess. Your vet can take a sample tissue from the affected area and evaluate it to determine if bacteria are the problem and, if so, prescribe either oral or topical antibiotics and antibacterial shampoos and soaks.

Ingrown Toenails

Nails that are not trimmed properly or naturally worn down by walking outside can become painful ingrown toenails. Your vet can treat them with antibiotics and pain medication, but severely ingrown nails might have to be surgically resected, Levitzke says.

Torn Toenails

A torn nail is common in the emergency room, Levitzke says, often after a tussle with another dog or a paw snags on carpeting or other material. When the entire nail has been pulled off,  take your dog to the vet for immediate treatment to stop bleeding and manage pain. Antibiotics also might be prescribed. “If the nail has been incompletely removed, the treatment would be to remove the remaining bit,” Levitzke says.

Burns

Hot asphalt can hurt your dog’s paws, and burns need to be treated immediately. Bandaging usually is required as a protective barrier on the skin or paw pad affected, Levitzke says. Antibiotics and pain medication are also typically indicated.

Frostbite

Think of frostbite as a cold burn. As with burns from hot asphalt or pavement, these injuries need immediate veterinary attention. Treatment for frostbite includes bandaging, pain control and anti-infection measures. Avoid this injury by limiting your dog’s exposure to the elements.

Winter Salt

Prevention is the best way to avoid these injuries, Levitzke says. Put booties on your dog’s feet and use dog-safe salt. If your dog does get salt on his paws, wipe it off with a towel/paper towels. “We find that it tends to burn particularly when the paw pads with salt on them touch the snow, so try to avoid walking through salt and then snow, or wipe off feet between getting salt on them and walking through the snow,” he says.

Ticks

“One of the more common places we find ticks hiding is between the toes,” Levitzke says. “It is best to have a veterinary medical professional remove the tick.” Never take a lit or recently lit match to the tick. If you can’t get to the vet, use tweezers to grip the tick from the head and gently pull it out. The head must become detached along with the body for successful removal, he says. Pet supply stores also sell special tick-removal tools.

Mites

Mites such as Demodex canis can present a frustrating problem and require a deep skin scrape or a biopsy to diagnose, Marrinan says. These mites can cause Demodicosis in which the mites that normally live in your dog’s hair follicles multiply and cause swelling, hair loss and scaling on your dog’s paws. Your vet will examine hair or skin samples under a microscope to accurately diagnose the condition, which is treated with medication, sometimes for several months.
Hairy Feet

Dogs with lots of hair on their feet can catch gum, sticky asphalt, burrs and thorns in crevices, which can be hard to find and painful to remove. Prevent these problems by having the hair clipped by your groomer. Ingrown hairs manifest in short-haired dogs as tiny pimples and can lead to furunculosis, an infection deep in the hair follicle that can abscess and cause tissue damage.


~Source~
Dr. Neil Marrinan/Old Lyme Veterinary Hospital in Old Lyme, Conn. 
Dr. Brett Levitzke, Medical Director/Veterinary Emergency and Referral Group, Brooklyn, N.Y.



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Do Not Use Dog Hair For Bird Nests

Safe and natural materials for birds to make their nest

Thank you so much to the person who wrote to me and asked about leaving materials outside for birds to use to make nests. While it isn’t time to think about that now – we still have snow in Manitoba – there are many places in the world where birds are looking for materials right now. You can also use this list to gather up materials later.

There are two common things that people put out thinking they are helping birds but they are not. Their little legs get caught, twisted, and broken. Those two things are mesh fruit bags and the other is yarn and string. There was a recent article suggesting that people put things inside a mesh bag so that the birds can pull the material out. Please don’t. Use a wire suet container – they cannot get their tiny legs caught in it – if you feel you have to hang up the material. There are also craftspeople making specialized metal objects just for this purpose. And while yarn is commonly thought of as a good nesting material and people delight in seeing the colourful strands woven into a nest, the yarn also can get twisted around little legs. I know that no one putting out nesting material wants to break the legs of these lovely creatures.

To read more on this story, click here: Do Not Use Dog Hair For Bird Nests

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Why You Should Never Approach a Service Dog: Teen with Disabilities Had a Seizure When Her Service Dog was Distracted

Hailey Ashmore has several conditions, including: epilepsy, Ehlers-Danlos syndrome, postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome, reactive hypoglycemia, severe allergies, gastroparesis, and asthma.

The 16-year-old from Dallas, TX relies on the help of her service dog, Flynn.

According to Fetching Apparel, Hailey was once a dancer on the varsity drill team, student council member, violinist and at the top of her class. However, with her conditions progressing, Hailey can only take classes online.

She is dependent on her parents, nurse, medications, and Flynn. The condition she grapples with the most is epilepsy, which causes seizures. Seizures are very serious; in another instance, a mom had a seizure and was unable to tend to her infant at the mall.

“To get a service dog you must be disabled to the point where you can no longer function at a normal quality of life without the assistance of service dogs,” said Hailey.

“It takes around two years of intense training and thousands of dollars (if you owner train) to actually be able to call your dog a service dog. A service dog can go anywhere its handler goes, with the exception of a sterile environment such as an operating room or burn unit, a religious building — such as a church, or some federal buildings,” she said.

The job of a service dog is very important to its human. See why Hailey is pleading with strangers to get them to stop petting her dog without permission.

  

                    Hailey has had Flynn since he was an itty-bitty puppy.

                              Needless to say, it was love at first sight.

Hailey also struggles with several conditions. “I have epilepsy, Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome, Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome, reactive hypoglycemia, severe allergies, gastroparesis, asthma, and more,” Hailey told Fetching Apparel.

Flynn isn't just a friend — he is Hailey's service dog. Flynn can sense when Hailey is going to have a seizure before it happens. This gives Hailey time to respond, get help, and find a safe place.

One day, Hailey was visiting her dad at work. When she arrived with Flynn, a staff member could not resist how adorable he is. They began to pet him, ignoring the giant "STOP" sign he wears. "I immediately told him to stop [petting Flyyn],” Hailey told the Dodo.

"The only time somebody should ever approach Flynn and I is if I am unconscious and/or having a seizure. Besides that, nobody should try to pet or get near him. I wish people could understand that's what the giant stop sign patch means. If somebody distracts him I can get seriously hurt. If you see a service dog in public please educate your children, your friends, your family, anybody else that they are doing a really important job. Thank you."

While Flynn was distracted from the petting, Hailey had a seizure. “I am used to him giving me 10 minute warnings, so when he alerted that’s what I thought I had,” explained Hailey. “Out of nowhere I remember the world going black. I woke up with Flynn on top of my legs and my father cradling my head. On the whole left side of my face there was a terrible sting that made me tear up.”

                                  Hailey woke up with rug burns on her head.

"My service dog is my lifeline. I don't say that to be cute. He helps keep me alive just like life support. If he gets distracted this happens. If he gets distracted I can die. Do not pet service dogs. Do not call to service dogs. Do not taunt service dogs. Do not talk to service dogs. Do not do anything to service dogs. Thank you," she wrote on Instagram.

Many of us are so eager to connect with animals, we often forget that they are protecting their human. Let's learn something from another's mistake and be more mindful of other people's animals!

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Pure Bred Dogs Are Not as Superior as You May Think

Of the 70 million homeless pets there are in the U.S., only around 8 million of them get put in shelters where more often than not, many of them end up getting euthanized due to overcrowding. Sadly, only 20 percent of Americans go to local shelters to adopt a new pet. Most prospective dog owners, for example, will often seek out dog breeders who sell a “superior” pet. But this process is problematic.

Even if a dog breeder uses the most humane practices for dog breeding, the idea in itself goes against natural selection and the process of evolution. Even if a dog isn’t inbred, it can still suffer from a myriad of health problems way down the line as a result of a breeder’s attempt to create the highest-quality dog of any one breed.

Breeders from centuries ago, of course, didn’t take this into consideration and as a result, many of today’s common dog breeds are not representative of their ancient ancestors! See how your favorite breeds have transformed after centuries of pure breeding practices. It’s hard to believe bull terriers used to look so different.

                                       Basset Hounds Then

The use of scent hounds for hunting goes back to the days of Ancient Egypt, as well as Classical Greece and Rome. The Basset Hound’s sixth-century ancestor is said to have belonged to St. Hubert of Belgium. It wasn’t until the sixteenth century that Jacques du Fouilloux referred to the progeny of St. Hubert as the “basset” dog.

The dog’s short stature easily lent itself to accompanying hunters on foot, in contrast to the use of larger dogs by hunters on horseback. The modern Basset Hound’s forebear is said to have been bred by Everett Millais in nineteenth-century England.

                                             Basset Hounds Now

Today’s Basset Hounds are noticeably different from their nineteenth-century forebearers. Having much shorter legs with excess skin, a curved back, and droopier eyes, today’s Basset Hounds may not be the best hunting companions (though they are still sometimes used as such in England and France).

In fact, their back structure makes them vulnerable to vertebral medical problems, and their eye shape is associated with problems like entropion and ectropion (i.e., inward and outward facing eyelids, respectively). Recently, scientists have pinpointed the growth hormone gene that is responsible for the Basset Hound’s unique body shape.

                                                 Boxers Then

The boxer is derived from the German Bullenbeisser and the English bulldog breeds. It was initially used as a hunting dog whose unique skill was to capture prey and hold it until it is retrieved by the hunter.

The name “Boxer” allegedly derives from the dog’s tendency to stand on its hind legs and play (or “box”) with its front paws. During WWI, the Boxer was a trusted companion that was good for guarding, attacking, and carrying supplies. However, it wasn’t until after WWII that the Boxer became a household pet after returning soldiers brought it back with them from the front.

                                                   Boxers Now

Note the differences between the Boxer of bygone days and the modern version, which sports a larger, more contracted snout that points slightly upward and a longer, upward-pointing tail. Though mostly used as pets and show dogs, today’s Boxers are still relied upon as guard dogs and for carrying weight.

On the downside, the Boxer’s modern incarnation is prone to a host of medical problems, chief among them being cancer. In fact, the Boxer is one of the most cancer-prone breeds. Another serious issue is the Boxer’s diminished capacity to cool down when heated, which leads to behavioral difficulties.

                                           Bull Terriers Then

The Bull Terrier had its rise in the early nineteenth-century when the Old English Bulldog was crossed with the Old English Terrier. The breeding was motivated by the desire to create a more agile fighting dog possessing the strength and tenacity of the Bulldog and the speed agility of the Terrier.

Over the years, the Bull Terrier was repeatedly crossed and recrossed with such breeds as the Dalmatian, the Whippet, and the Staffordshire Bull Terrier. Although generally friendly and well-behaved around children and other dogs, the Bull Terrier has been known to do quite well as a fighter when entered in dog fighting competitions.

                                          Bull Terriers Now

The most obvious modification that the modern Bull Terrier exhibits in comparison to its ancestors is the lack of a “stop” in its nose, giving the nose its famous “egg shape.” Other modifications include a wider, lower-hanging belly and an increased number of teeth.

As with many of the breeds on our list, the modern Bull Terrier is prone to a number of medical conditions that its nineteenth-century precursors were not, namely: an increased susceptibility to deafness among white Bull Terriers, skin vulnerabilities to insect bites and rashes, and a neurological tendency to compulsively chase its own tail. You’ll be astonished when you see what Shar Peis used to look like.

                                           Chow Chows Then

Chow Chows are one of the oldest dog breeds to have survived into modern times. Although one would expect Shepherds or Huskies to be the closest living relatives of wolves, the evolutionary forebears of all dogs, it is actually Chow Chows who claim this title based on recent DNA analysis.

Chow Chows are believed to have come from Asia and were used by Mongolian and Chinese populations as attack dogs, guard dogs, hunting dogs, and even as sources of food. Many of the dog statues that adorn Chinese temples and palaces are believed to have been based on the Chow Chow.

                                             Chow Chows Now

Although Chow Chows were already compared to lions in antiquity, its mane-like fur makes the modern Chow Chow’s likeness to the king of the jungle unmistakable. Its mane, however, is just one of the characteristics that differentiate the much denser and longer coat of the modern Chow Chow from that of the old.

The other subtle difference is a somewhat smaller snout, which carries more excess skin. Being one of the oldest breeds, however, most of the Chow Chow’s ancestral characteristics are preserved. Medically, Chow Chows are prone to hip dysplasia, autoimmune disease, melanoma, and eye problems such as entropion and glaucoma.

                                             Dachshunds Then

Dogs resembling Dachshunds are depicted among Ancient Egyptian hieroglyphics, and may even have roamed the terrains of ancient China and South America. Recent findings of Dachshund-like remains in Egyptian tombs attest to the veracity of these interpretations.

There is some dispute as to how the modern Dachshund breed came to be, with some arguing that Dachshunds are descended from hounds and terriers, and others insisting that elements of Pointers and Pinschers may have found their way into the breed. Dachshunds are traditionally associated with royalty, especially Queen Victoria, and have been used by nobles for hunting purposes throughout the years.

                                             Dachshunds Now

The Dachshund’s low belly and pointy tail were bred for the purpose of hunting small animals such as badgers, rabbits, and hares in dense, foliage-rich environments. It is said that when a Dachshund got stuck in some critter’s layer, its long tail was used to pop it back out.

Today’s Dachshunds exhibit these characteristics to an excessive degree. However low to the ground, the Dachshund’s belly never obstructed its locomotion as it does today. Likewise, because of its elongated back and neck, the modern Dachshund is vulnerable to such maladies as intervertebral disc disease and paralysis.

                                         English Bulldogs Then

The Bulldog, as its name suggests, was originally bred for bull-baiting, a gruesome sport that involved tying up a bull and seeing which dog was successful at latching onto the bull’s snout and forcing it to the ground.

For this reason, the Bulldog was bred to exhibit a large head with a powerful jaw, and stout, muscular limbs. When bull-baiting on other forms of animal cruelty were outlawed in nineteenth-century England, Bulldogs became household pets. In the United States, however, Bulldogs were still employed by ranchers for the practical purpose of herding and tying up bulls.

                                            English Bulldogs Now

Today’s bulldog is known as one of the most disease-prone dogs due to health issues stemming from years of inbreeding. Although it is much more peaceable in its temperament now that it no longer has to bait bulls for a living (which makes it a lovely companion and home protector), its bulbous head, stocky frame, and droopy skin makes it vulnerable to a number of difficulties, including mating difficulty, birthing difficulty, and even difficulty in moving around.

Oddly enough, despite the cruel treatment of Bulldogs in the past, they were much more athletic than they are now. Due to their vulnerability to cancer and heart disease, Bulldogs rarely make it past age seven. Did you know German Shepherds used to be much leaner?

                                      German Shepherds Then

The German Shepherd had its rise in nineteenth-century Germany when a conglomerate of actual shepherds intent on breeding the perfect sheep herding dog formed the Phylax Society. Due to squabbles over whether to prioritize beauty as opposed to working ability, the society disbanded.

One ex-member named Max von Stephanitz was adamant in creating the perfect German sheep herding dog, despite the lack of need for them in an increasingly urbanized environment with fewer predators preying on farm animals. After implementing an arduous breeding (or, more specifically, inbreeding) program, Stephanitz’s attempts finally yielded Beowulf, the forefather of all modern German Shepherds.

                                         German Shepherds Now

Perhaps due to the lack of a necessity to breed German Shepherds for utility as sheepdogs, the modern version has lost the sleekness and agility of its graceful ancestors.

Albeit still a gorgeous dog, the modern German Shepherd’s belly is too distended, its chest is too round, its gait is too clumsy, its back is too sloping, and its size is too big. It is also vulnerable to conditions such as hip and elbow dysplasia and has a higher likelihood of developing degenerative myelopathy – an inherited neurological condition associated with a loss of communication between the dog’s brain and its hind limbs.

                                                  Pugs Then

Pugs are originally from China, having been used there as royal dogs, and even venerated as royalty by having their own quarters with guards stationed outside. When Pugs made their way to Europe in the sixteenth century, their popularity immediately took off.

It was said that Italian carriage drivers would dress their Pugs up in the same clothes as themselves and ride alongside them through the streets of Italy. The European royalty also took a liking to Pugs, with Queen Victoria taking an especially active interest in breeding them herself. From its early days, the American Kennel Club recognized the Pug as an accepted breed.

                                              Pugs Now

The Pugs did not always remain pure-bred Chinese dogs. Their signature brachycephalic (i.e., short and wide) snout is actually due to their inbreeding with somewhat smaller terriers. This modern iteration of the Pug became the standard for the breed, but it also brought about plenty of problems.

The snout’s shape, for example, is responsible for a number of medical conditions to which the Pug is vulnerable, such as breathing difficulties, low oxygen intake, high blood pressure, heart disease, an inability to regulate body heat, and jaw and tooth problems. Furthermore, the Pug’s overgrown skin leads to dermatitis, and its curly tail is associated with paralysis.

                                              Shar-Peis Then

Shar-Peis, like Chow Chows, are one of the oldest breeds of dogs, and like Chow Chows, they too hail from China. Throughout the Han Dynasty and beyond, the image of the Shar Pei, much like Chow Chow’s, was used to decorate various buildings and objects.

They were originally bred as hunting companions for hunting wild boars. Their loose skin and prickly fur assisted them in getting out of a boar’s grip, and this same trait led to them being used as fighting dogs. The Western version of the Shar Pei, referred to as “meat mouth” by the Chinese, differs from the Chinese version, which the Chinese call “bone mouth.”

                                               Shar-Peis Now

As with other dogs on our list, such as the Pug, the English Bulldog, and the Basset Hound, the modern, Western version of the Shar-Pei carries a hefty amount of excess skin as baggage. For some reason, modern breeders just love to heap excess dermatological surface area on dogs.

This obsession leads to the Shar Pei’s vulnerability to allergic skin infections and ear infections (due to the excess folding of skin about the ears). Although American Shar Peis descended from the “bone mouth” Chinese variety relatively recently following a 1970’s campaign to rescue these dogs from communist China, the unabated American desire for the “meat mouth” has already altered this breed.

                                               St. Bernards Then

The St. Bernard breed is derived from the Molosser dogs that were originally brought to the Alps region by the Romans. The modern St. Bernard descends from canine heroes who would lead monks and other passersby through the Great St. Bernard Pass in the Swiss Alps.

One legendary St. Bernard named “Barry” was said to have rescued between 40 and 100 people. Interestingly enough, St. Bernards were not trained by the monks to carry out these heroic feats but learned their trade from older dogs. Unfortunately, an avalanche killed the majority of these working dogs during the nineteenth-century, which permanently altered the breed.


                                             St. Bernards Now

Today’s St. Bernards are not the same as the legendary Alpine heroes described in books and legends. Following the avalanche, what was left of the original population was crossed with imported Newfoundlands to make the breed what it is today.

These new dogs were incapable of search and rescue operations due to their massive size and heavy coat, which weighed them down greatly. Of course, that didn’t stop the Swiss kennel clubs from prizing this massively oversized creation. Today’s St. Bernard suffers from a host of ailments stemming from its baggy skin, narrow snout, and heavy coat, including a proneness to overheating and a susceptibility to eye problems and cancer.

                                                 Salukis Then

Salukis are a unique breed of dog. Not only are Salukis one of the oldest breeds around, but they were once considered a gift from Allah. You read that right—these large canines were once considered holy.

Salukis are known for their lean build. These pups are as skinny as supermodels, which also means they’re fast, fast, fast. Coupled with their speed, Salukis are notoriously hard to train, which means they are not be trusted off their leash! Despite their tendency for not-so-wonderful behavior, these dogs are lovers at heart and are utterly devoted to their owners.

                                                   Salukis Now

While Salukis today might not be considered holy gifts, not much else has changed. These pups are still known as being one of the leanest breeds out there. Salukis are still utterly devoted to their owners and are generally very friendly towards adults, kids, and other dogs. They’re still slightly hard to train and should be kept on a leash while on walks!

Salukis have experienced the negative side of breeding firsthand, however. Because the Salukis of today have had their skeletal appearance enhanced, the breed also has a higher rate of heart-related health problems.

                                          White Terriers Then

The best way to describe a White Terrier? Self-confidence! This doggo is one breed who isn’t lacking in self-esteem, which is why the White Terrier been so popular for the last century and beyond. The most common White Terrier is the West Highland White Terrier. Originating in Scotland, these pups were originally bred for hunting and ratling and even sometimes as search-and-rescue help! Their instinctive nature to capture fast-moving animals meant this breed was on the fastest and most agile 100 years ago. But what about the White Terrier today?

                                            White Terriers Now

White terriers are seldom used for their original purpose of hunting and rattling and are bred to be a domesticated house pet. These pups are always on the lookout for a good time and are professionals when it comes to keeping themselves entertained.

When it comes to breeding, the white terriers of today haven’t fared as well as some of the other breeds on our list. These pups used to be highly-functional and very athletic. A century of bad breeding practices has left them seriously affected and no longer able to follow their natural instincts due to intentional growth stunting.

                                         Bearded Collies Then

Bearded Collies were developed in Scotland and were originally intended to herd sheep and livestock in various weather conditions and terrain. Back in the day, these pups were known for their highly-energetic and friendly personalities which made them great additions farms as they could control the livestock without hurting them. On top of having loads of energy, Bearded Collies were very obedient and loveable and were considered all-around great animals. So how has the Bearded Collie changed after 100 years of breeding? Read on to find out.

                                              Bearded Collies Now

One look at this photo of a Bearded Collie from a century ago and it’s easy to see how much they have changed over time. Due to a century of questionable breeding, Bearded Collies have taken on a much different appearance. Today, they are shorter and slightly stockier than they used to be. Although they do not experience any severe defects due to breeding, many Bearded Collies experience allergies.

Although they have experienced some of the negative effects of dog breeding, this pup is still known for being one of the friendliest breeds out there. They’re easy to train and are endlessly loyal to their owners. You just have to be willing to tolerate lots of shedding!

                                         Airedale Terriers Then

Airedale Terriers are the largest of all of the terrier breeds and are known as the “King of Terriers.” Originating in the Aire Valley of Yorkshire, these dogs were bred to catch otters, rats, and other critters in the region between the Aire and the Wharfe Rivers.

Because Airedale Terriers were such ideal working dogs, they were heavily used as help dogs in World War I, delivering messages to British headquarters. On top of being intelligent, outgoing, and confident, Airedale Terriers are also playful and very loyal to their owners.

                                          Airedale Terriers Now

Visually, Airedale Terriers have changed quite a bit. Their faces and bodies are far less angular than they used to be 100 years ago and their fur is longer and coarser. Today, their demeanor is very similar to how it was a century ago. These pups are still known for their intelligent, outgoing, and confident personalities. They thrive when they feel like there is a job to be done—even if that job is something as simple as entertaining their owner! The independent dogs are truly a breed to behold. Smart, obedient, and playlist; they’re an all-around great breed.

                                          Shetland Sheep Dogs Then

The Shetland Sheep Dogs, better known as the Sheltie, wasn’t recognized by the American Kennel Club until 1911. During that time, these pups were recorded to be on average just seven to 11 pounds with medium-length fur.

Shetland Sheep Dogs originated in the Shetland Islands, off the coast of Scotland. It was here that these canines stood guard for farmers, keeping hungry birds and sheep out of their owner’s gardens. Shelties also served as humble and reliable herding dogs. Better yet, these dogs made great family companions.

                                    Shetland Sheep Dogs Now

Modern-day Shetland Sheep Dogs are much larger in size than they were 100 years ago. In fact, Shelties are more than double in size on average! Today, the average Shetland Sheep Dog weighs at least 20 pounds though not much taller in height. One of the most noticeable differences in their fur. In 1911 when they were first recognized by the American Kennel Club, their fur was medium length. Today, however, a Shelties’ fur is longer and much more lustrous. This also means they shed much more. As they were 100 years ago, these pups are still known for being alert, friendly, and smart.

                                        Neopolitan Mastiffs Then

Neopolitan Mastiffs originated in southern Italy. This breed’s ancestry dates as far back as 3,000 BCE, at the beginning of the Bronze Age. During this time, the Upper and Lower regions of Egypt were unified and mastiff-like pups began to emerge as guard dogs working in Tibet.

From the beginning, these pups were unique in their appearance. Massive in size, Neopolitan Mastiffs boast loose skin and thick facial wrinkles giving them a distinct and sometimes unnerving look. Despite their appearance, however, Neopolitan Mastiffs were one of the most gentle dog breeds 100 years ago. But what about the Neopolitan Mastiffs of today?

                                        Neopolitan Mastiffs Now

Today, Neopolitan Mastiffs are still one of the gentlest breeds of dogs. Despite centuries of breeding, these dogs look relatively similar and still have the same signature slow, rolling gait and loveable facial rolls. With time, the Neopolitan Mastiffs has gotten larger all around in terms of height and weight. Today, the average Neopolitan Mastiffs is two feets to two feet and seven inches tall at the shoulder. As for their mass, the average Neopolitan Mastiffs weighs 120 pounds to a massive 200 pounds! Wait until you see which popular dog breed made our list next!

                                                 Beagles Then

The earliest dogs that were referred to as Beagles were small enough to fit in the palm of your hand! The teeny tiny pups stood at just eight inches tall, but as they increased in popularity, so did their size. There is little information on Beagles’ origin, but it is believed they were used for hunting in Greece as early as the 5th century BCE. Eighth-century Beagles were known as scent hounds and were heavily used for hunting, despite being slow runners. It is said that Beagles were sometimes bred with Greyhounds in the hopes of increasing their speed and agility.

                                               Beagles Now

As Beagles have been bred with good and bad practices over the last 100 years and more, the breed has seen significant changes in their appearance and personalities. Today, Beagles are far larger than the pocket-sized canines they used to be. As demand grew for strong hunting dogs, Beagles were bred with other breeds largest in size and agiler in nature. Their faces are wider set and they can grow to be up to 30 pounds. As far as their demeanor goes, Beagles are inquisitive, determined and highly motivated by food—aren’t we all?

                                                Poodles Then

The origin of the Poodle has been disputed for many years. While some believe that the breed descends from the old French Barbet breed, other believe Poodles hail from Germany and were originally created to be a type of water dog. In any case, these dogs are ranked the second most intelligent breed, just behind the Border Collie. Poodles are very skillful when it comes to a variety of activities such as agility, obedience, tracking, and herding. Despite the Poodle above’s posh looks, these dogs were very useful for a variety of different tasks. Some even performed in circus rings back in the day.

                                                 Poodles Now

Despite being portrayed as dogs who live lives of glamour and luxury, poodles are anything but divas. Much like their ancestors, this breed will still complete a job when given the task. Sure, Poodles may look primed and primp with their manicured nails and pink bows, but these dogs can still be trained to perform a variety of duties like they were 100 years ago. Today, however, you are far more likely to see Poddles in a variety of sizes as there are Toy, Miniature, and Standard Poodles.

                                       Bedlington Terriers Then

Bedlington Terriers originated in North East England to kill vermin and to be a sidekick for poachers. These beautiful dogs were great options for these duties because they excelled as companions and had excellent hunting instincts. Their keen sense of smell coupled with their willingness to get down and dirty made them a poacher’s best friend.

On top of these duties, Bedlington Terriers were often used in dog racing, dog sports and in conformation shows. Another fun fact about these pups is that they were excellent swimmers back in the day too. But what about today?

                                     Bedlington Terriers Now

Bedlington Terriers’ appearance has changed a lot over the last century in comparison to other dog breeds. The Bedlington Terriers used to be much larger and stockier, but today, they look closer to a Dandie Dinmont Terrier, Whippet, or Otterhound—three dogs of which Bedlington Terriers are in fact related to!

Bedlington Terriers are known for their lamb-like appearance as well as their entertaining yet opinionated behavior. These dogs are inquisitive, intelligent, alert and still take a cue from their old hunting ways since they are still aggressive towards small animals.

                                             Fox Terriers Then

Fox Terriers were originally bred to provoke foxes out their hiding places. These agile pups were great at burrowing and catching foxes, making them an obvious choice for a hunting companion. When they began being used less frequently for hunting purposes, Fox Terriers found themselves a top contender in a variety of dog shows. Although Fox Terriers are still since in dog shows around the world today, they are much different than the Fox Terriers of the early 1900s. See what the breed used to look like next.


                                              Fox Terriers Now

Today, Fox Terriers are much different than they were 100 years ago thanks to breeding. There are now two types of Fox Terriers: Smooths and Wires. Smooth Fox terriers are sleek, elegant and intelligent. Wire Fox Terriers are handsome and happy-go-lucky creatures and look adorable when properly groomed. Although both types of Fox Terriers differ slightly in demeanor they are both active, curious and friendly. These pups haven’t lost their abilities in the agility department either and would make for great hunting partners to this day. Not going hunting anytime soon? Then keep these little guys on a leash!

                                       Australian Cattle Dog Then

When settlers came to Australia, livestock was brought with them livestock and sheepdogs to help herd. Sadly, these dogs could not get the job done in the Australian terrain. A guy by the name of Timmins tried to breed the perfect herding dog but it would take years before the model herding dog came around.

Breeders kept trying until they mixed dingoes with blue merle collies. That combination was not the one yet but it was getting there. Finally, soon after 1870, Jack and Harry Bagust wanted to improve the breed by crossing a Dalmatian but that caused the dog to lose some working ability so a black and tan kelpie was added to mix. The result, an Australian cattle dog.

                                     Australian Cattle Dogs Now

These pups are survivors. They are one of the oldest dogs in the world. One of them was born in 1910 and was chasing sheep for nearly 20 years!

In 2009, an Australian cattle dog named Sophie lived through the ultimate canine survival tale,” wrote Rebecca O’Connell. “While on a boat with her family off the coast of Queensland, Australia, the dog was thrown off when the craft hit a rough wave. The resilient pup swam five miles back to shore and ended up on St. Bees Island, an island inhabited mostly by wild horses. Sophie managed to stay alive by hunting feral goats. Eventually, she was nabbed by a ranger and reunited with her family.”

                                       Chinese Powderpuff Then

For this adorable dog, there is no real written history about it’s past so the gaps are filled with speculations and theories. For instance, there is a theory that this dog can be traced back to the African hairless dogs. It was also said that they were traded by sailors at each port they would stop while making their way to China. The Chinese adored small dogs so they bred these hairless pups with others, making a new breed.

There is some evidence that by the 1500s, the Chinese would buy these dogs from either Africa or Mexico.

                                        Chinese Powderpuff Now

Today, these beautiful dogs are ranked 65 in breed popularity. They are a lazy man’s best friend. Why is this so? Well, “they can almost read your mind and will lie in bed for hours without moving a muscle,” Dogtime wrote. “They have almost no desire to go out and run around like regular dogs, although they are athletic enough to jump surprisingly tall fences and compete in agility.” They might be precious but they don’t accept strangers that well so you would have to wait for them to warm up before you can play with one.

                                           Greenland Dog Then

The history of this of this dog dates back nearly 12,000 years. They were around when ancient canines came to Siberian accompanying primeval tribes, who would later become modern Eskimo people. The local wolves would serve as “fathers” in the process of breeding. The native dog started off being used just for transportation and hunting the local animals.

When the 1900s came around, the Siberian Husky and Alaskan Malamutes started to rise in popularity but explorers chose to stick with the Greenland dogs. Explorers and surveyors liked these dogs especially because for their qualities.

                                          Greenland Dog Now

If you’re looking for a loyal dog than look no further because this breed is extremely dedicated to a specific owner. However, they lack protective instincts so wanting one as a guard dog would be the wrong reason to obtain one of these fluffy pups. Due to their history, they carry a close temperament to wolves. They have a high alpha pack instinct. They are independent and love to roam around. Think of them as the leader wanderlust dogs. So if you have an apartment and want to own one, that might not be the best environment for 
them.

                                      Red And White Setter Then

There was a point in time when these great dogs were up for extinction but before we get into that, let’s talk about their history. Breeders would mate these dogs with ones adapted to work in the native environment during the 17th century. Then during the 19th century, the Setter started gaining mass popularity and soon became the most abundant variety.

Then came the 20th century and the World Wars which brought an immediate threat to these dogs. Thanks to Rev. Noble Huston, a limited number of the Setter survived extinction in Ireland. By the ’80s, the number of them slowly increased.


                                      Red And White Setter Now

These dogs are highly powerful. Their appearance is well-proportioned and athletic with no coarseness. They are bred for hunting and have a muscular neck and well-muscled legs. It would have been a shame if they ended up going extinct.

“Being devoted, friendly, and spirited by nature, the Red and White Setters are a joy to own,” reported 101Dogbreeds. “They display courage, determination, and high spirit, implying that they can become reckless and destructive if not given the required amount of physical and mental exercise. They need an outlet to burn off their extra energy and are thus suitable for active families.”

                                              Lowchen Then

The beginning of these precious dogs is unclear but they do appear in artwork and old literature stemming from the 15th century. It’s more current history dates back to the 19th century which Tibet and various other far east areas brought canines to Belgium, France and Germany and combined them with local breeds like Spitz and Terriers.

Like the Setter, during and after the World Wars, the amount of these dogs drastically fell .Luckily, Madame Bennerts would breed them in 1944 and thanks to the help of veterinarian Hans Rickert, the duo was able to save Lowchens from extinction.

                                         Lowchen Now

Can you guess what Lowchen means? It means “little lion”! Ironic for a dog to have a cat’s name don’t you think? Well, the Lowchens are a breed of small dogs clearly and lack the ferocity of a lion, they are still a great companion. It’s trim highly resembles a lion as well.

“The Lowchen’s demeanor can be described as cheerful, intelligent, sociable, gentle, and sensitive,” reported 101Dogbreeds. “Being a loving, friendly, and people-oriented pet, it enjoys plenty of human attention. Leaving it alone for a long time causes not only temperamental issues for the dog but also ill health.”

                                            Broholmer Then

In the 1500’s, the Danish royal family was awarded Broholmers by King James VI. That’s the earliest that these dogs date back to and they were bred with butcher’s dogs which produced Danish Dogs, the earliest ancestors of modern Broholmers.

These canines were cherished by aristocrats and the wealthy but they weren’t just used as guard dogs but to help herd sheep and livestock as well as hunt deer. Eventually, the need for big hunting dogs declined so the interest for them was shot. And once again, the Broholmer was almost extinct but Niels Frederik Sehested started a breeding program to save them.

                                            Broholmer Now

This dog is the perfect guard dog. Its body is built strongly in a rectangular frame with a massive head and strong neck. Don’t let the cute smile fool you because they will attack.

“Having a Broholmer in your family will surely bring joy to your life,” wrote 101Dogbreeds. “Being fond of people of all ages, including the elderly and the children, it makes a great family companion. It displays extreme devotion to its family with its life always revolving around its people. Always aware of its surrounding, it will not hesitate to defend its family from any real threat.”

                                         Scottish Terriers Then

Scottish terriers were originally bred to hunt prey likes badgers and foxes. Their independent, self-directed behavior nature made them great hunting companions. But when they weren’t hunting, these short-legged companions were also extremely sweet and loyal.

Back in the day, Scottish Terriers were considered one of the smartest kinds of terriers. Their quick-witted and curious attitudes meant they weren’t to be trusted alone and often has fellow animals to play with. While they did take a long time to open up, once a Scottish Terrier rusted you, you were friends for life! But what about today?

                                       Scottish Terriers Now

Scottish Terriers have fared well in term of breeding. Today, Scottish Terriers aren’t much different than they were 100 years although. Although most are domesticated, family pets, these pups are still known for their qualities that made them great hunters decades ago.

Scottish Terriers are still physically very similar. They have short legs but are still a very agile breed. Although Scottish Terriers may not hunt as much as they used to, they still love to burrow and dig holes around the yard and probably don’t quite understand that you don’t like it!

                                              Chinooks Then

Chinooks originated in the mountains of New Hampshire. This handsome breed made his name on Admiral Byrd’s first Antarctic expedition in 1928—and he was a great companion. Thanks to the Chinooks’ large skillset, these dogs were a very well-rounded breed. They could accompany their companions on lengthy hikes and sled rides and could take home the win in agility and other dog sports. But work and competitions aside, Chinooks were known for being great family dogs too. So how has this breed evolved over the last 100 years?

                                            Chinooks Now

Although Chinooks were bred to have agility and stamina when it came to pulling a sled, their days of expeditions are long over. Today, Chinooks are considered the consummate companion, They are a very versatile pup—atheltic and agile, while still being sweet and loyal to their owners. Chinooks are one of the least aggressive breeds out there, so if you’re looking for a guard dog, you’ve come to the wrong place! Chinooks are a rare breed to find, and if you want one you will likely have to wait at least six months. These dogs are not to be bought from a breeder to ensure they don’t pass on genetic diseases.

                                             Borzoi Then

Borzois were developed in Russia as coursing and hunting dogs. The hounds were used to hunt in teams of three to catch rabbits and other quick animals. They preferred a fast sprint as opposed to long runs, which made them the perfect option for hunting. With their tall, lean bodies, the Borzoi was the picture of elegance, so it’s not surprising that this breed soon became popular across Russia and Europe amongst high-class citizens. These dogs walk with confidence, so it’s not hard to imagine them walking to halls of a dignified mansion or running freely in the countryside.

                                                 Borzoi Now

Today, Borzois days of hunting are long over. Instead, Borzois most important job is to be a family friend. These gentle giants are sweet and laidback, and can often be found lounging lazily on the sofa. With their luxurious coats, Borzois are truly a sight to behold and still maintain the regal look they had a century ago. This breed has fared well amidst bad breeding practices and today is one breed that is hard to come by. Borzoi seekers can expect to wait a long while before coming across a purebred Borzoi, but these beautiful creatures are worth the wait.

                                              Dalmatians Then

Dalmatians were created to run for long distances alongside carriages. This was intended to help ward off highwaymen while adding a touch of flair to aristocrats’ vehicles. Even 100 years ago, people were attracted to these dogs for their stunningly contrasted coat of black and white fur. And who could blame them for admiring their gorgeous spots? Not only were Dalmatians great at running, their high energy meant they loved to play alongside children and adults alike.

                                           Dalmatians Now

Dalmatians are still highly sought after for their beautiful spots. But if you’re looking to adopt a Dalmatian today, there are some things to keep in mind. These dogs are very intelligent and highly energetic as they were a century ago. Their high energy means they are best suited to live somewhere with lots of space and in an environment where a human or other dog is around most of the time. It’s also important to keep in mind that these dogs are prone to deafness. This is sadly a result of an inherited polygenic trait.


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