Dog Heat Rash: Signs, Treatment, and Prevention
25 Large Dog Breeds That Make Great Pets
TosaMeet the Tosa, one of the biggest dog breeds from Japan. These animals were formerly bred for fighting, but thankfully, those days are gone. Now, the Tosa basks in the family life. It's far from a lazy dog breed, though. It takes its role as the stately and vigilant guardian of the family seriously. A properly trained and socialized Tosa is calm and affectionate with its family but naturally suspicious and aloof with strangers.
Remember, the breed was created for dogfighting, so your Tosa might not take too kindly to other animals or humans visiting your home. "They will show increased predator/prey behavior with cats and other small pets and may readily chase small children running around with possibly disastrous consequences due to their strength and large size," says Dr. Bell. In other words, Tosas prefer to be your one and only pet, and it pays to properly train them, especially if you have young kids.
Breed overview Height: 12.5 to 23.5 inches at the shoulder Weight: 100 to 200 pounds Life expectancy: 10 to 12 years Tibetan mastiffAre you inviting a lion or a dog to share your home? It's hard to tell with the Tibetan mastiff's formidable size and mane of thick, dense fur. As a member of the working group, it veers on the side of being a large-and-in-charge guardian and independent thinker. It has a strong sense of self and confidently assumes it is an equal, not a pet. Yet the Tibetan mastiff is also mellow and very affectionate with its human family, dependent on their companionship to be happy and to avoid mischief. If these dogs are apart from you and alone for too long, they'll find ways to entertain themselves that aren't constructive. (Read: Huge dog, huge mess.)
Breed overview Height: 24 to 26 inches at the shoulder Weight: 70 to 150 pounds Life expectancy: 10 to 12 years Brian Stubbs/Getty Images Things to know before adopting a large dog breedYou've probably already thought about whether you have enough space for a huge dog, but there are a few more details to consider before adopting one of these large dog breeds. For starters, giant dogs wolf down a lot of food. "A dog who weighs 100 pounds eats almost five cups a day of commercial dog kibble; then add about one-third cup more for every 10 pounds over 100 pounds," says Lyndsey Larson, VMD, ABVP, a veterinarian at VCA Firehouse Animal Hospital in Denver.
Because of their size, the biggest dog breeds also require more medicine, including flea and tick preventatives. And big dogs make bigger messes with their fur, slobber and paws. All in all, you may need a bigger car, bigger poop bags or scoops, bigger crates, bigger dog beds and bigger muscles to deal with your extra-large pet. These are just a few weighty factors to consider when thinking about how much it will cost to own a dog of this size.
The largest dog breeds' puppy stageSmaller dogs generally reach their full size at around 12 months. The largest dog breeds take their time reaching their adult weight, hitting maturity between 18 and 24 months old.
Behavior and training challenges are magnified when you have a huge dog, so training during the impressionable puppy stage is essential. "A good rule of thumb is to get a large-breed pet into a training program and support those good habits at home between the ages of 16 weeks and one year," says Dr. Larson.
The largest dog breeds' life spanAlthough the reasons aren't entirely clear, most giant dog breeds have shorter life spans. They age more quickly, thus developing age-related diseases, such as osteoarthritis, earlier. This can make it difficult for them to get around or climb stairs. You may eventually need a ramp or a special lifting harness to help them up and down stairs or into a car. And with big dogs, knowing how to pick up a dog safely without hurting them or yourself is vital.
Why trust usAt Reader's Digest, we're committed to producing high-quality content by writers with expertise and experience in their field in consultation with relevant, qualified experts. For this piece on large dog breeds, Lisa Marie Conklin tapped her experience as a reporter who has covered dogs and pets for seven years, and then Caroline Coile, PhD, an award-winning journalist specializing in canine breeds, health and science, gave it a rigorous review to ensure that all information is accurate and offers the best possible advice to readers. For this piece, we relied on reputable primary sources and experts, including practicing veterinarians. We verified all facts and data and backed them with credible sourcing, and we will revisit them over time to ensure they remain accurate and up to date. Read more about our team, our contributors and our editorial policies.
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14 Adorable Brindle Dog Breeds You Need To Know
A dog's coat is one of its most striking features, whether it's long-haired, short-haired or somewhere in between. There are solid-colored white dogs and black dogs, multi-colored breeds and, perhaps somewhat less well-known, brindle dogs.
What are brindle dogs?Sometimes described as tiger-striped dogs, brindle pups have a subtly striped pattern that can come in a range of colors such as red, fawn, brown, silver and black. Unlike more distinct stripes—such as the ones you might see on a zebra—brindle stripes are more zagged and sometimes blotchy.
A brindle color dog's stripes and base color don't vary much in hue. Usually, they have dark stripes and a base color that is only somewhat lighter. When there are light-colored stripes on a darker coat, it's called a reverse brindle. These striped dogs can have the brindle pattern all over their bodies or just in certain spots. Interestingly, brindle coats can appear on other types of animals as well, including cats, guinea pigs, cattle and horses.
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Reviewed for accuracy by: Caroline Coile, PhD, an award-winning journalist specializing in canine breeds, health and science. She's the author of 34 books, including Barron's Encyclopedia of Dog Breeds. ⓘ Why causes brindle in some dogs?A dog's genetics determine if it will have a brindle coat. To be brindle, a dog must carry one or two copies of the brindle gene—and only certain breeds carry this gene at all. The brindle gene is dominant, but it can be covered up by colors regulated by genes at other locations in the dog's genetic makeup.
For example, if a dog is a color called dominant black, it will be black all over. If it has a gene that doesn't allow any black at all to show through, it will be cream colored, even if it has a brindle gene. If a dog is spotted, the white parts will cover up what would otherwise be brindle. So brindle can "hide" for generations and then pop up unexpectedly, depending on what other colors the dog is. That's part of what makes it so fun!
Similar to blue-eyed dogs and dogs with green eyes, simply choosing a dog breed that carries the brindle gene doesn't guarantee your dog will have a brindle coat; it just means there's a possibility it will. Additionally, mixed breeds and mutts can also carry the brindle gene. A brindle coat can develop as your dog ages, so a solid-colored pup could develop stripes as it gets older.
While a brindle coat can certainly make your pup stand out from the crowd, it won't change his personality. Before adopting a pup, you'll want to make sure the breed's general character and temperament suit your lifestyle. Ahead, find the cutest dog breeds that carry the brindle gene.
1. Boxer
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Brindle boxers are fairly common. Brindle is one of three possible boxer colors registered by the American Kennel Club (AKC). The other two are fawn and white, but the whites are not allowed to compete in the show ring. Adorably, these pups often have white feet and bellies, even if their coats are primarily brindle. Frequently used as cattle dogs, police dogs, guide dogs and watch dogs, boxers are playful, loyal and patient with children. Most years they even make it onto the AKC's list of the top 10 most popular dog breeds.
2. French bulldog
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The AKC recognizes these playful pups in nine coat colors and patterns, including brindle. Some Frenchies also have cream brindle, or "fawn brindle," coats. Originally made popular by society ladies in Paris as the quintessential city dogs, these flat-faced pups are currently the most popular dog breed in the United States. They're known for their oversized bat ears and charming, adaptable personalities.
3. Greyhound
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A greyhound is guaranteed to outrun all the other pups at the park. These graceful hounds have coats in various shades of brindle, including blue brindle, red brindle, white-and-blue brindle and white-and-red brindle. Originally bred as hunting dogs in England, this quick-footed breed can still be found on racetracks around the world today. They have a reputation for being gentle and independent. And while they're perfectly happy lounging at home during the day, they require regular opportunities to run full out. After all, they are the fastest dog breed in the world.
4. Whippet
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Another speedy dog, the whippet lives up to its name. Similar to the greyhound, these dogs have an inverted S shape and a trim waist. They're affectionate, playful and calm dogs, and do just as well with a large backyard as they do in the city (although they will need adequate exercise). An interesting fact? This often-brindle dog breed rarely barks. You can find whippets with blue brindle, fawn brindle, red brindle and black brindle coats.
5. Dutch shepherd
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Often seen in a gold brindle and silver brindle, these intelligent brindle pups are frequently used as police dogs, search and rescue dogs and guide dogs. They're known for their athleticism, independence and lively personalities. In addition to two brindle colors, Dutch shepherds can also have three different coat types: short hair, long hair and rough hair. Rough-haired Dutch shepherd's coats are so curly that the brindle pattern is hidden.
6. Great Dane
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These gentle giants have coats in an array of colors and patterns, from black-and-white to fawn and brindle. But obviously, the Great Dane's most noticeable characteristic is its size. Standing up to 32-inches high and weighing up to 175 pounds, these sizable pups, one of the world's biggest dog breeds, tower over most other dogs. Great Danes are friendly, dependable and great with kids. They also make formidable watchdogs (their size alone will deter most intruders).
7. Akita
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The Akita is one of the fluffiest brindle dogs. Originally bred as hunting dogs in Japan, these pups hold a special place in Japanese culture. When a child is born, the parents will often receive a small Akita statue to signify health, happiness and long life. Hellen Keller is credited with bringing the first Akita to the United States; the disability-rights activist received a pup as a gift while visiting Japan. These muscular dogs are loyal, dignified and somewhat wary of strangers and other animals. The American Akita, now considered a separate breed by the AKC, can also have a brindle coat.
8. American Staffordshire terrier
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American Staffordshire terriers have glossy short-haired coats that are seen in a range of colors, such as black, white, bronze, fawn, red and brindle. They're also seen with many different patterns, from patches and spots to face masks. These muscular, sturdy dogs are known for their confident and good-natured personalities. Adopt one and you'll have an outgoing friend.
9. Dachshund
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You know these pups from their short stature and floppy ears. But did you know about their coats? Dachshunds are found in a variety of colors and color combinations, from tan-pointed blacks and browns to solid red, piebald (or patched) and merle (or dapple). They're also frequently seen with a brindle pattern. Dachshunds are spunky, curious pups and require moderate amounts of exercise to keep their adorably long backs strong and healthy. Not to mention, they're one of the cutest dog breeds with short legs.
10. Cane corso
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If we had to choose one word to describe the cane corso, it'd be "majestic." At nearly 28 inches tall and weighing more than 100 pounds, this working group brindle dog is an intimidating protector. This Italian dog's name roughly translates to "bodyguard dog" in Latin. These dogs are smart, loyal and eager to please, although their assertive nature makes them a no-go for novice owners. They come in black, gray, red and fawn, all with or without brindling.
11. Bullmastiff
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Another gentle giant breed, bullmastiffs are the result of bulldog and mastiff crosses. Members of the working group, these muscular pups were originally used to pursue and hold poachers in England. Today, they're known for their affectionate, loyal and courageous personalities. They come in red or fawn, with or without brindling, and usually with a black mask.
12. Colored bull terrier
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The bull terrier's most notable feature is its head, which the AKC lovingly calls egg-shaped. These big-boned pups are playful and charming; in the mid-1800s, they were the breed of choice among stylish young gentlemen in Britain. Bull terriers come in two varieties: white, which is all-white but can have some color on the head, and colored, which can be colored on the body. Brindle is the preferred color for them. You can find bull terriers in a range of colors and patterns, including black brindle and white with black brindle spots. Their coats are short and coarse with a slight glossy sheen.
13. Plott hound
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The Plott hound is named after the man who bred them, a German immigrant named Johannes Plott, who raised the dogs in North Carolina. They're descended from German Hanover hounds and were bred to hunt large game animals such as bear and wild boar. This coonhound breed had German ancestors but is considered an American-made breed. It comes in a range of brindle colors, including black brindle, blue brindle, brown brindle, gray brindle, red brindle and more. Plotts are loyal, alert and intelligent, and they have energy to spare. Because of their history, they're also North Carolina's official state dog.
14. Cardigan Welsh corgi
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Did you know corgis are short for a reason? Originally bred as herders, the corgi's low-to-the-ground stature allows them to nip at the heels of cattle without getting kicked. However, while they were bred to work hard, they also make affectionate and loyal companion dogs. Sometimes seen in brindle and white, the cardigan Welsh corgi has pointy ears, a long body and a deep chest. And unlike the Pembroke corgi, these guys have tails.
Why trust usAt Reader's Digest, we're committed to producing high-quality content by writers with expertise and experience in their field in consultation with relevant, qualified experts. For this piece, Juliana LaBianca tapped her experience covering dog breeds, and then Caroline Coile, PhD, an award-winning journalist specializing in canine breeds, health and science, gave it a rigorous review to ensure that all information is accurate and offers the best possible advice to readers. We verify all facts and data, back them with credible sourcing and revisit them over time to ensure they remain accurate and up to date. Read more about our team, our contributors and our editorial policies.
Pidoodles? Doodlepits? Shelter Has No Idea What To Call Rare Mix-Breed Pups
An unusual pack of puppies have been causing a stir at Monmouth County Society for Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA) thanks to their unexpected genealogy.
Thought to be the result of a goldendoodle and pit bull mix, the puppies affectionately dubbed "pidoodles" or "doodlepits" by staff have quickly melted hearts.
"The puppies were surrendered to the Monmouth County SPCA by owners who were unable to care for them," Barbara Lovell from the society in New Jersey told Newsweek.
"This is why we like to encourage people to spay and neuter their dogs. They came to us pretty skinny and definitely in need of bathing. It also appears that the owners did very little to no socializing with them, but they are friendly little babies," she explained.
Pictures of the puppies thought to be an unusual mix of goldendoodle and pit bull breeds. The litter was surrendered by a couple who could no longer care for them. Pictures of the puppies thought to be an unusual mix of goldendoodle and pit bull breeds. The litter was surrendered by a couple who could no longer care for them. Monmouth County SPCAWhether they're being called "dits" or "pitoods," the 5-month-old puppies are full of energy.
"They are active, gangly little pups with sweet temperaments," said Lovell. "We guesstimate that they'll all grow up to be medium-sized dogs—and a conversation piece!"
The puppies have been fully spayed, neutered and vaccinated and are excited to meet potential new families.
In hundreds of comments on the society's Facebook page people were delighted by the unusual dogs and shared their reactions.
"Cutie pitoodies of course," said Tara. While Kim dubbed them: "Designer pitties."
"Pit Boodles," said Carol. "They are going to be so smart and loving!"
Another Facebook user said: "I bet their tails never stop wagging," a comment the shelter replied to and said: "You're right about that!"
This is far from the first time people have been captivated by an unusual dog breed mix. Like when Chuepy—a rare mix of six different breeds—captured viral attention for his unusual looks.
Earlier this year people were left guessing which two dog breeds made up a rare yet "lovable" mix in 9-year-old Tucker. At 18-inches tall and 30 pounds in weight, he has unusual proportions and a lot of love to give.
When it comes to the "pitdoodle" puppies, all five are currently on the adoption floor at the New Jersey shelter waiting for new homes.
Pictures of the puppies who are all currently looking for their perfect forever home. Pictures of the puppies who are all currently looking for their perfect forever home. Monmouth County SPCA"The only requirements we have for these pups is a loving home where they can play and run around like any active, medium-sized dog," Lovell said.
But she pointed out another essential quality of adopters, too.
"I'd like to add that a loving home is one where a new owner is committed to training their puppy," she added. "Unfortunately, we see many older dogs surrendered to our shelter because their owners failed to provide simple training through puppyhood, and then decide that they are unable to deal with their dog's behavior."
The right training is something that is particularly important for young dogs that have come from a rescue situation: "These puppies came from what could have been a chaotic environment," explained Lovell. "[They] deserve owners who have the time and patience to teach them to live their best lives as a treasured pet."
Do you have funny and adorable videos or pictures of your pet you want to share? Send them to life@newsweek.Com with some details about your best friend and they could appear in our Pet of the Week lineup.
Newsweek is committed to challenging conventional wisdom and finding connections in the search for common ground.
Newsweek is committed to challenging conventional wisdom and finding connections in the search for common ground.
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