Hello, everyone. Have you been watching the winter Olympics? My Aunt Gayle would rush home from work every day to get caught up on what she missed. She’s an Olympic nut! It got me to thinking, however. I know I can’t expect Olympics for dogs, however, did you know that each breed has their own special trait and country that they originated from? It’s true. I thought, in honor of the Olympics and Aunt Gayle, I’d talk a little about the different countries that gave us the best dogs in the world.
The Boston Terrier is often referred to as the “American Gentleman of Dogs.” Its regal black and white markings helped name this special breed. Other American breeds include Australian Shepherd, American Water Spaniel, and American Bull Terrier.
The Weimaraner is originally from Germany, and they are often called the Gray Ghost. Their beautiful color is really more of a silver, than gray and are considered strong minded and independent.
The Papalion is often referred to as the butterfly dog because of their large fluffy ears. They are known to have come from all over Western Europe, but most people believe this breed started in Spain and France.
The Lhasa Apaso is also called the Lion Dog of Tibet. They still guard Tibetan temples today, just like they did many centuries ago.
The Great Dane, also called the Apollo of Dogs is believed to have originated from Egypt. There are lots of different versions about the country they came from. They are gentle dogs with a unique personality.
The Airedale is the largest of all terriers and originated in Great Britain These dogs are easily trained and have been used in important work, such as search and rescue and military work. Some countries even use them as police dogs.
The Keeshound is called the Dutch Barge dog for exactly what they were bred for. The Dutch still uses them to guard the barges and they are great company for the workers on the barge.
The Welsh Springer Spaniel is known as the Starter breed. It can be traced as far back as 7000 bc. They are known as one of the best hunting breeds.
The Chinese Shar Pei comes to us from China. They are very popular in Hong Kong today and are also called the Sharkskin dog. Their coat is short and rough, almost sand paper like and their regal looks demands attention wherever they go.
The Saluki is also called the Royal Dog of Egypt. Although the Muslim religion declares that dogs are unclean, the Saluki was considered sacred. One of the best hunting dogs of that region, the Muslims declared that only prey caught and brought from a Saluki was acceptable to eat.
The Boxer, also known as the clown dog, originates from Germany. Their ability to use their front paws to “fight” gives them their unique name. Boxers are incredibly smart, very loyal and one of the most beautiful dogs in the world.
Folks, no matter what breed you may have as a pet, all dogs are capable of the same thing, to love you and take care of you and remain loyal to you. Whether you have a mixed breed or a pure breed, your life is fuller and richer for having a dog in your family. If I had my way, everyone who had a dog would get a gold medal! Silver medal goes to the cat owners and Bronze medals would go to the other critter owners. All dogs are winners if they are in a home where they are loved and taken care of.
Have you hugged your dog today?

Mango, a rescued pet, is the inspiration for this column by Debi Laibe. Send any questions or comments to
This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it