Last time we talked about several breeds of dogs that look like other animals. We even saw a dog that looks like a fairy tale pony. As promised, we’ll take a look at some more dogs that don’t quite look like your “average” dog.
When you hear the word “dog,” most people picture a Labrador Retriever, a Rottweiler, a Hound Dog, something on along these lines. But dogs don’t always look like these breeds.
French Bulldog
Did that dog run into a parked car? Nope, that’s the nose he was born with. Stout and muscular, the French Bulldog thrives on human contact and is affectionate to kids and other dogs. Intelligent and playful, he’s easy to train, but as a free thinker can be a bit stubborn.
French Bulldogs, aka Frenchies, were originally used as ratters, but became more of a companion dog to Lacers in Nottingham. They took such a liking to this miniature bulldog that they brought them along to France. They’re prone to breathing problems and heat exhaustion, as well as (hold your nose) flatulence
Peruvian Inca Orchid
A naked dog with a mohawk? Yep. Weighing in anywhere from 9 to 55 pounds, this “Peruvian Hairless Dog” often sports a crest of hair on his head as well as hair on his tail and feet. This intelligent dog is fast, agile, and quick to learn. Affectionate and protective of his family, he’s wary of strangers.
This is one ancient breed of dog, dating back to 750 A.D. He’s often seen on Peruvian and Aztec pottery. Like the cats of ancient Egypt, they were often adorned and buried with their owners.
People believed the Peruvian Inca Orchid held a mystical power because the heat from their hairless bodies aided in the treatment of arthritis. And yes, he needs a coat in the winter and sunscreen in the summer.
Puli
Is that a mop on the loose? Nope, this is a Puli, the “Hungarian water dog.” He weighs about 25-35 pounds but looks bigger due to his “dreadlocks.” When these dogs are around a year old, their hair must be separated into cords for three to four months until it stays that way. So, you guessed it, grooming isn’t an easy task.
Playful, good with kids and other dogs, the Puli is intelligent, affectionate, and may attempt to herd their family members. They’re especially sensitive to the needs of the sick and elderly and make good therapy dogs.
The Puli is an ancient breed of herding dogs originating in Hungary, and are still used for herding today. They’re agile, lightning fast, and can handle up to a flock of 400 sheep.
Tibetan Mastiff
Oh, no, is that a lion on the loose? Nope, it’s the fearless Tibetan Mastiff. He’s intelligent, loyal and loves affection. With lots of energy, he loves to play, but is not good with small kids unless raised with them. They range from 75-160 pounds and can be quite territorial.
They have a strong instinct regarding people, and if they don’t get over the initial dislike of a person, there’s usually a reason. They can be hard-headed and difficult to train, and have been known to climb fences.
This primitive breed was developed centuries ago in Tibet. They served as guardians of livestock and property, as well as Buddhist Monks and Nuns living in the mountains of Tibet. They’re good companions and bark only when necessary.
Xoloitzcuintli
Another hairless dog with a mohawk? Yep, this is the Xoloitzcuintli (show-low-eats-queent-lee,) Xolo for short. This webbed-footed “Mexican Hairless” dog ranges from 10-50 pounds and is hard to tell from the Peruvian Inca Orchid. Because of dander, he’s not completely hypoallergenic.
The Xolo is assertive, intelligent, affectionate and protective of family. His family bond is strong and he doesn’t do well alone. While the “PIO” is seen as a sight hound, Xolo is seen as more of a working dog. Due to his body heat, he is good for people with ailments such as arthritis, and was seen as having special powers, much like the “PIO.”
A natural, ancient breed, Xolo was named after the Aztec diety, “Xolotl,” the fire god and escort of the dead to the underworld, and “itzcuintli,” the Aztec word for dog. Native to Mexico and Central America, there are less than 1,000 in America.
I hope you enjoyed parts 1 and 2 of these unique dogs, all the way from “A” to “X.”
Until next time, Carol