shih Tzu: breed

The Shih Tzu has been around for a long time. The Shih Tzu was bred to sit around the palace of the Emperor of China and bark when people or animals approached: this is allegedly to alert people to the presence of unwanted visitors. It is believed that this ornamental breed was created by breeding the Bei-jing gou (Pekingese) with a Tibetan dog breed, the Lhasa Apso. Recent DNA analysis confirms that this is one of the oldest breeds of dog. The Shih Tzu is also known as the Chinese/Tibetan Lion Dog or the Chrysanthemum Dog. It is called the chrysanthemum dog because its face looks very much like the flower. In 1994, the Shih Tzu became the 12th most popular breed of dog in the AKC’s 139 breeds with more than 37,000 new individuals.
James E. Mumford described the breed in an American Shih Tzu magazine, giving a picture of the versatile character of the Shih Tzu: “Nobody knows how the Ancient Eunuchs managed to mix together…And now here comes the recipe: A dash of lion, several teaspoons of rabbit, a couple of ounces of domestic cat, one part court jester, a dash of ballerina, a pinch of old man (Chinese), a bit of beggar, a tablespoon of monkey, one part baby seal, a dash of teddy bear and the rest dogs of Tibetan and Chinese origin.” e

Shih Tzu characterized by its long, flowing double coat; sturdy build; intelligence; and a friendly, lively attitude. In breeding all coat colors are allowed. The Shih Tzu’s hair can be styled either in a short summer cut, or kept long as is compulsory for conformation shows. Although Shih Tzu owners do not generally find fur on furniture or clothes, they do shed small amounts of fur, but are still considered to be a hypoallergenic pet. The shed hair is usually trapped in the Shih Tzu’s dense undercoat until the Shih Tzu starts to engage in activities that involve a lot of movement (e.g., running around.)
The American Kennel Club (AKC) Shih Tzu breed standard calls for the dog to have a short snout, large eyes, and a palm-like tail that waves above its torso. The ideal Shih Tzu to some is height at withers 9 to 10 1/2 inches. The dog should stand no less than 8 inches and not more than 11 inches tall. The Shih Tzu should never be so high stationed as to appear leggy, nor so low stationed as to appear dumpy or squatty. Regardless of size or gender, the Shih Tzu should always be solid and compact, and carry good weight and substance for its size range.

The life span of a Shih Tzu is 11-14 years[4], although some variation from this range is possible. Some health issues common among the breed are portosystemic liver shunt, renal dysplasia, and hip dysplasia- in Standard sizes. In addition, they also can suffer from various eye problems. Shih Tzus (and many other breeds) may present signs of allergies to red dye #40, and owners should respond to scratching in the absence of fleas by eliminating pet foods that contain this commonly used additive.

affenpinscher: breed

Weighing 7 to 9 pounds (3-4 kg) and not exceeding 11 inches (24-30 cm) in height at the withers, the Affenpinscher has harsh rough coat and a monkey-like expression (Affe means monkey in German). Its coat is shaggier over the head and shoulders forming a mane, with shorter coat over the back and hind quarters. It is harsh and wiry in texture. The FCI and UK breed standards specifies that the coat must be black, but the AKC also allows gray, silver, red, black and tan, and belge (not beige; belge is a mixture of red, black and white hairs)other clubs have their own lists of acceptable colours, with black being the preference.

Affenpinschers have a distinct appearance that some associate with terriers. They are different from terriers, however, in that they are actually part of the pinscher-schnauzer subgroup of group 2 in the FCI classification so often get along with other dogs and pets. They are active, adventurous, curious, and stubborn, but they are also fun-loving and playful. The breed is confident, lively, affectionate towards family members and also very protective of them. This loyal little dog enjoys being with its family. It needs consistent, firm training because some can be quite difficult to housebreak. The training should be varied because the dog can easily become bored.
Affenpinschers are somewhat territorial when it comes to their toys and food, so they are not recommended for very small children. This dog is mostly quiet but can become very excited if attacked or threatened and shows no fear toward any aggressor. It is best suited for a family who likes a show and has a sense of humor.

The Affenpinscher can get hip dysplasia. As with many small breeds of dog they are prone to collapsed trachea, which is best avoided by walking the dog with a harness instead of a collar. Cataracts are occasionally reported.

The breed is German in origin and dates back to the seventeenth century. Its name is derived from the German Affe (“ape”, “monkey”) . The breed predates and is ancestral to the Griffon Bruxellois (Brussels Griffon) and Miniature Schnauzer.
Dogs of the Affenpinscher type have been known since about 1600 but these were somewhat larger, about 12 to 13 inches, and came in colors of gray, black, fawn, black and tan, gray and tan, and even red. White feet and chest were also common. The breed was created to be a ratter, working to remove rodents from kitchens, granaries, and stables.

Affenpinschers need to be groomed two to three times a week because of their 1 inch coat.

chow: breed

Chow Chow, or Chow, is a breed of dog originating from Mongolia and Northern China, where it is referred to as Songshi Quan (Pinyin: sōngshī quǎn), which literally means “puffy-lion dog.” It is believed that the Chow Chow is one of the native dogs used as the model for the Foo dog, the traditional stone guardians found in front of Buddhist temples and palaces. The Chow is a stocky dog with broad skull and small, rounded ears. The breed has a very dense coat that is either smooth or rough. The fur is particularly thick around the neck, giving the distinctive ruff or mane. The coat may be one of several colors including reddish-brown (described as “red”), black, blue, cinnamon, and cream. Not all these color varieties are recognized as valid in all countries. Individuals with patchy or multicolored coats are considered to be outside the breed standard. Chows are distinguished by their unusual blue-black/purple tongue and very straight hind legs, resulting in a rather stilted gait. The blue-black/purple tongue gene appears to be dominant, as almost all mixed breed dogs who come from a Chow retain the tongue color.

terrier: breed

The terrier is a group of dog breeds initially bred for hunting and killing vermin. While usually small, these dogs are brave and tough with a lively, energetic, and almost hyperactive personality. The largest breed in this family is the Airedale Terrier.
Most terrier breeds were developed in the British Isles. They were used to control rats, rabbits, and foxes both over and under the ground. Some larger terriers were also used to hunt badgers. In fact, the word terrier comes from the Middle French terrier and before that the Latin terra, meaning earth. The Kerry Blue Terrier and Airedale, however, are particularly noted for tackling river rats and otter in deep water.
The “gameness” of terriers was exploited by using them in so-called sporting contests. Initially, terriers competed in events such as clearing a pit of rats. The dog that was fastest in killing all the rats won. Bull terriers, in particular, were developed as fighting dogs.
Today, most terriers are kept as companion dogs and make great family pets. They are generally loyal and affectionate to their owners but can be “big characters” requiring a firm hand.
Terrier Group is also an official breed grouping for most of the major kennel clubs, including the AKC, ANKC, CKC, Fédération Cynologique Internationale, KC(UK), NZKC, and UKC. There is some confusion as to the position of terrier-like dogs developed outside the British Isles. For example, the Miniature Schnauzer is in the Terrier group in the American Kennel Club but not a Terrier according to the United Kingdom Kennel Club. Boston Terriers are true terriers although not put in the terrier group, while the Tibetan Terrier and Black Russian Terrier are terriers in name only and not true terriers at all.

terrier: angie

Pointer,Terrier Mix

Size: Medium
Age: Young
Gender: Female
ID:

Notes: Angie is the most energetic and adorable puppy ever!! She is house trained, create trained and wonderful with other dogs (big and small). All vaccinations are up to date and she has been spayed!! Angie would be perfect for a family she loves children and they love her energy. During the day Angie will play and when it¹s time for bed she loves to cuddle. Angie has already been taking Frontline Plus and heartworm preventive medication ­ she still has a few dosages left so she will bring that with her. Oh she is excellent at playing catch and loves walks on her leash with a harness. Please submit an adoption application.
Henrico Humane Society
Richmond, VA
dogs@henricohumane.org

chow: audrey

Shepherd,Chow Chow Mix

Size: Medium
Age: Adult
Gender: Female
ID:

Audrey is a shepherd mixed female born 8/05.. She likes other dogs, but needs to go to a home where she doesn’t have to share her attention or food with other dogs. She is house broken, playful, curious, and easily trained to learn new things. For more information on Audrey, please contact Jessica at 804- 514-7268.

chow: magnolia

Chow Chow,Retriever Mix

Size: Medium
Age: Young
Gender: Female
ID:

Notes: My name is Magnolia and I am an adorable fluffball female chow/retriever mix puppy. I’m about 5-6 months old and will probably weigh around 40 pounds or so when I decide to stop growing. My sisters and I were backyard pups and pretty shy when we first came to the shelter. We’ve really come out of ourselves now and are looking for perfect furever homes. We like to play and are good with other animals. If you think you could be my furever home then please call FURS right away. FURS only adopts to homes in the Richmond, VA area. Applications can be completed on line at www.fursdogs.com

retriever: tnsley

Flat-coated Retriever Mix

Size: Large
Age: Adult
Gender: Male
ID:

Notes: Tinsley is a black setter mix that is loads of fun and very friendly. He loves his squeeky toys and will carry them around the house just waiting for the opportunity to play. He is gifted in learning new things and pleasing others. Tinsley has a beautiful soft coat that is easily managed with brushing a couple of times a week. He comes with good indoor doggie manners and gets along with other dogs big and small. He lives in a foster home with other dogs.
Crossroad Charities
Richmond, VA
804-935-7200

beagle: agnes

Beagle,Cocker Spaniel Mix

Size: Small
Age: Adult
Gender: Female
ID:

Hi! My name is Agnes and I am an adorable female beagley/spaniely mix. Nobody really knows what I am except CUTE! I’m about 6 years old and weigh about 23 pounds. I’m very personable and love to go on walks or just hang out around the house. If you’re looking for a new furever friend then I think I may be the one! FURS only adopts to homes in the Richmond, VA area. Applications can be completed at www.fursdogs.com

dachshund: alice and ashley

Dachshund,Beagle Mix

Size: Small
Age: Young
Gender: Female
ID:

Notes: My name is Alice and me and my bestest buddy in the whole wide world, Ashley, were abandoned together by our last owner. We’ve been through a lot together and as a result we are like ying & yang, peanut butter & jelly, lavern & shirley – you get the picture. We’d LOVE to find a home together and you couldn’t find two better dogs for an instant doggy family! My picture doesn’t do me justice (I was a little sceered of the camera!) ~ I’m a 1 1/2 year old dachshund/beagle mix and I weigh about 18 pounds. Ashley and I are both fine with other animals – but like to hang out with each other best of all. If you think you could give us a great new furever home please call FURS right away! Note: FURS is looking to adopt Alice with Ashley FURS only adopts to homes in the Richmond, VA area. Applications can be completed on line at www.fursdogs.com