1. Affenpinscher
2. Australian Kelpie
3. Australian Terrier

Affenpinscher Dog Breed

The Affenpinscher is a charming little breed with an almost cute monkey-like appearance. In fact, the prefix 'Affen' is a German word for monkey. In his country of origin he is often called Zwergaffenpinscher ('Zwerg' meaning dwarf.) The French have dubbed it the "mustached devil." In any case, he is an appealing comical little dog, the smallest of the Schnauzers and Pinschers breed. He is alert, gentle, intelligent, and affectionate. He is wary of strangers and is always prepared to defend his home which makes him a good watchdog.

Size: The average height for this breed is about 91/2-11in. His average weight should be about 61/2-9lb.

History and origin: Miniature Pinschers and Affenpinschers were, until 1896, classified as a single breed. However, in that year at the Berlin show, it was decided that the long-coated variety should be known as the Affenpinscher. The Affenpinscher is a very old German breed that was depicted by Jan van Eyck (1395-1441) and Albrecht Durer (1471-1528). However, there are some controversies as to where his origin began, although his nationality was never been in doubt. Some people believe it to be related to the Brussels Griffon while others attribute the Brussels Griffon to the Affenpinscher. Another theory is that the Affenpinscher is a toy version of the German coarse-haired terrier, the Zwergschnauzer. In any case, this wonderful dog was recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1936. He was introduced into the United Kingdom in 1975 and was first shown at Crufts Dog Show in 1980.

Feeding: Recommended feeding for this breed would be 1/3-1/2 can of quality meat product (13.3oz size), with biscuit added in equal part by volume; or 1-11/2 cupfuls of high quality dry food. When feeding this dog dry food, make sure that he has an ample supply of water.

Exercise: Just like most toy dogs, he will be satisfied with a short walk around the park, but will gladly walk you off your feet if that is to your pleasure.

Grooming: Regular brushing will keep his coat in great condition, as well as all normal grooming habits of most dogs.

Australian Kelpie Dog Breed

This dog breed is very active along with great stamina and suppleness. Standing only18-20 inches, he has the strong and solid look of a Shepherd. The female Australian Kelpie should stand from 17 to 19 inches in height. Most dog owners prefer a larger and longer version of this breed.

The Australian Kelpie is considered to be a very tough herding dog and is a quiet worker capable of moving any livestock, though chiefly suited toward sheep and cattle. They are athletic and live mostly independent. The Kelpie has too much energy to be kept solely as a pet, though they are notably affectionate, especially with children.

The Kelpie must be kept very busy and so if you plan on being an owner of this breed then you must take into account this dog's strong herding instinct and realize he will not be happy if you and your family are all he has to "herd." And though he is a tough dog that has an intimidating look for a small breed, he is not well suited as a guard dog.

Physical Description

The head is broad between the ears and the skull is flat which tapers to the muzzle. The ears should stand perky and be moderate in shape without spooning over. His eye spacing is considered to be wide for his face structure. They are shaped like almonds and are dark in color. The eye color may be light in some cases which will create a "mean looking" appearance.

The Kelpie's neck is thick and strong and the shoulders are narrow that slope downward. The chest runs deep. His Hindquarters should show breadth and strength with a longer than short haunch. The tail bends in a slight curve, raised when excited. Coat is moderately short, flat with a good undercoat. Colors include black, black and tan, red, red and tan, fawn, chocolate, and smoke blue.

Health and Life-span

When it comes to the Australian Kelpie's health he is one of high stamina. An amazingly athletic and adaptable dog, he does not suffer from any prominent genetic or hereditary conditions. This dog also possesses a strong defense against diseases. However, the one thing that will stress this dog's mental as well as physical health is lack of activity. Plenty of exercise and mental stimulation are extremely important. If the Kelpie is not able to move about and exercise regularly then the stress resulting from being sedentary will literally cause him to self-destruct. The average life span is about ten years.

Australian Terrier Dog Breed

The Australian Terrier is a working terrier with a compact, and small but sturdy body. His body is considerably longer than it is tall. The ears are pricked with no tendency to flare off the skull and the tail is docked. The Australian Terrier is a loyal and devoted dog that is hardy, smart, courageous, always busy, with keen senses. He is extremely affectionate with his owners and is usually reserved with strangers. This breed is spirited, easy-going but purposeful, and makes a great watchdog. His alertness combined with speed makes him an excellent ratter. He loves to please and do well at obedience work. On the other hand, because of his terrier instinct, he can be stubborn and challenging to train. His attention is easily diverted by distractions, especially by a small animal or a person wandering into his territory. He responds well to early, firm, and precise training methods. Roughhousing could encourage a warning bite and should not be permitted. Spoiling this breed encourages a bossy and stubborn behavior because, like most dogs, he will interpret spoiling as recognition of his dominance. He has a tendency to bark or dig incessantly if left alone for too long. The Australian Terrier has a high prey drive toward small animals such as cats and rabbits. He has no serious health problems and should live a happy 14 years.

Size: The Australian Terrier stands 10-11in at the shoulder and weighs between 10 and 18lb.

History and origin: The Australian Terrier was first used in 19th century Australia as a ratter, snake killer, and watchdog. It is suggested that this breed was developed from the progeny of a female Yorkshire Terrier smuggled aboard a sailing ship and mated to a dog resembling a Cairn Terrier. He was known by various names until 1889, when a club was formed in Melbourne to foster the breed.

Feeding: Recommended feeding for the Australian Terrier is about 1/2 - 3/4 can of high-quality meat product (13.3oz size) with biscuit added in similar amount or 1 1/2 cupfuls of a complete dry food. Fat is an essential ingredient in order for the dog to maintain a healthy coat; if his meal has a low fat content, add a teaspoon of corn oil to his daily serving.

Exercise: An ideal place for this busy and active breed is a fenced-in yard with plenty of space for him to run around. On the other hand, he can adapt to apartment living provided he is walked several times a day.

Grooming: This breed has a weather-resistant coat that is hard and straight with a softer undercoat. Shedding is minimal, as is the level of maintenance. Regular grooming with a bristle brush will stimulate the skin and encourage a good coat growth.