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"Are you really ready for the long-term commitment of having a dog?"
Before you bring
any dog into your life and home, please take the time to consider the commitment you are making and the responsibilities you
will have. Having a dog is a long-term commitment -- for most breeds of dogs, at least 10 to 15 years. Many people bring puppies
into their homes without really thinking it through. They make "spur of the moment," impulsive decisions which many times
turn out to be the wrong decisions. The unfortunate dogs in these instances many times end up abused, in dog rescue, or at
the pound awaiting adoption or an untimely death.
Please consider that when you bring a puppy or dog into your home,
you are adding a new family member to your "pack," because that is how your puppy or dog will understand it. As the dominant
"people-dogs," in the relationship, and "leader of the pack," we have obligations to care for our dogs as best we can. We
are responsible for proper training, feeding, medical care, breeding, grooming and housing. We
are also responsible for providing them companionship and security. In return, our dogs enrich our lives
as ever-faithful companions whose only wish is to please us and offer us their unconditional love.
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| Puppies are hard to resist, but remember this is a long term commitment! |
If you are honestly ready for this commitment, next consider which type of dog best fits
into your lifestyle. Do some research. There are many books and dog encyclopedias available
at your local library to help you understand the differences in types and breeds of dogs. Take some time to honestly think
about what you are looking for and what you will expect from your dog. Also, think about what you are able to give in the
relationship. Make a list of the qualities you desire in a dog and look for one that matches that type. You and your dog will
be happier if the "fit" is right.
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| Farmdogs have strong instincts for killing rodents. |
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| Farmdogs excel in many types of dog sports! |
Take a closer look!
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| Click here for Sample Puppy Questionaire! |
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"Is the Danish/Swedish Farm Dog the right choice for your lifestyle?"
The Danish/Swedish
Farmdog's general appearance can be seen in the various photographs posted throughout this website. Also, please refer to
the Breed Standard page of this website. This small compact dog ranges from 12-15 inches in height, measured at the shoulder and weighs
between 17-25 pounds on average. Females range 12-14 inches, 18-22 pounds, and males range 13-15 inches, 20-25 pounds.
The breed is generally healthy with no breed-specific inherited disorders. Regular veterinary check-ups and immunizations
will help insure the continued health of your dog.
Their coat is short, close, smooth and shiny and pretty much odor-free
with minimal grooming. Shedding is seasonal, though in temperate climates may occur to some extent year-round. (Adding an
essential fatty acid supplement to food eliminates year-round shedding but does not interfere with seasonal shedding.) Nails
should be clipped regularly and teeth brushed 2-3 times per week.
Farmdogs eat between 1-2 cups of premium dry food
per day depending on their overall size and activity level. Providing safe "chewing" type treats will help maintain teeth
and promote overall good oral health.
Farmdogs are full of personality. In general, these dogs are alert, lively, sweet,
friendly, curious and full of playfulness and fun. This is not an aggressive breed. They make good family dogs and are good
with children. They adapt well to other dogs. They love attention, and will, at times, demand it. There are ranges in personality
types and energy levels within all breeds. Your breeder will be able to help you make the right choice. It
is wise to rely on the breeder's assessment.
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| Size perspective: Farmdogs are a small to medium sized breed. |
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| Farmdogs get along with other dogs. |
The breed is highly intelligent and easily trained. You can expect them to learn all sorts of cute tricks
and obedience with proper training. Proper, positive reinforcemant training is important. If you don't train them,
they will train you! These dogs have excellent memories and do not forget things easily. They love toys, interactive
games and sports -- anything that will entertain them.
| Farm Dogs are smart! |
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| Proper training and socialization is important! |
Danish/Swedish Farm Dogs require exercise. They can adapt to many levels of activity, from
low to high, but remember, these are "working" dogs and they like to have something to do. Ideally, they need about 1 hour
of vigorous exercise per day. If you do not have a yard for running and playing, it is important to take them for regular
walks. You might consider participating in a "dog sport" such as Flyball, Agility, Herding or some other dog activity.
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| Farmdogs require daily exercise. |
This breed was bred for it's versatility - an all-purpose "Farmer's Dog." They have instincts for catching mice and rats
and they like to chase rodents. They like to dig. This breed has herding and hunting instincts. They learn to swim easily,
though some individuals seem to like the water more than others. Some Farmdogs have been trained as certified search
and rescue dogs. This breed truly is an all-purpose dog breed.
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| Most Farmdogs like the water. |
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