The spritely, intelligent little shepherd has been an indispensable working dog in the Pyrenees Mountains of southern France for centuries. They become valuable outside their home range during WW1 as couriers, search and rescue dogs, and alert partners to guards on their rounds. They are ideal companions for an active family who appreciates their zest for life, provides active diversions, and includes them in their daily activities. Their coats come in smooth- and rough-faced varieties and range from light tan to charcoal grey and several shades in between. Their shaggy, low-maintenance coats benefit from a through brushing about once a month.
Each AKC approved purebred breed has its own national club. The mission of these “parent breed clubs” is to improve and preserve a particular breed by advancing knowledge about its history, its health and care requirements and by assuring that the breed’s form and function remain true to its historical physical type and character: A Dalmatian, for instance, should be athletic and have a natural affinity for working with horses. A Fox Terrier should have the right body size and shape, and a drive to go after vermin.
Pet owners, breeders, trainers, veterinarians, and others with a special love for a breed, join the parent breed club to meet like-minded enthusiasts and to support the club’s mission.
The national parent breed club is the first place for the public to go to learn about a breed or find a knowledgeable, experienced breeder.
Discover Animals is a web-based educational resource offered by the NAIA
