There are no more FCI groups, but let me present you with one more approach to the dog types. Such… “my way”, that is, what we can deduce based on observation only.
The dog’s appearance will tell us a lot about its needs and capabilities.
Remember that every dog – regardless of appearance – needs:
– careful socialization;
– free exploration (the possibility of undisturbed smelling);
– social contacts (with humans and other dogs);
– intellectual challenges (fun, training, dog sports);
– a place where he can rest, where no one will disturb him.
Shortened snout – causes difficulty breathing. Dogs with short muzzles get tired quickly, so they are unsuitable for any long-term effort. So do not force such a dog to run with you over long distances, and even more so to accompany you during bicycle rides. In walking, he may need breaks, especially on hot days. Thermoregulation is disturbed in this type of dog. Be sure to take water with you for walks on warm days.
“Children’s face” – a flat muzzle with a very short nose, a high forehead and huge eyes make dogs resemble small children. This makes them seem sweet. However, they are paying a huge price for this. In addition to the problems resulting from the shortened snout (described above), they are also exposed to eye prolapse and short-term loss of consciousness (resulting from cerebral hypoxia) during too intense physical activity.
A muscular physique makes the dog unsuitable for long-term, monotonous physical exertion. For example, heavy dogs should not go running with their leader (especially on a leash when they cannot change pace or stop) nor keep company with their people on longer bike rides.
Massive dogs are usually balanced and non-conflictual.
Ears – as Belaev’s experiment showed, floppy ears indicate a lower tendency to enter into conflicts. But, of course, there are exceptions here (sledge dogs have upright ears, and they get along perfectly with other dogs).
Long ears require careful care and systematic control – lack of proper ventilation increases the risk of infection.
Light physique – these dogs are lively and willing to physical exertion, running and jumping. However, they tend to be reactive – they might overreact to the stimuli reaching them.
Short paws, long body; large angulation (i.e. the dog’s rump is below the shoulder line) – a risk bordering on the certainty that the dog will suffer from joint diseases.
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