Siberian Husky

The Siberian Husky was developed by the Chukchi peoples of Arctic north-east Asia as a fast, long-distance sled dog. Indeed, this is the fastest of all the sled-pulling breeds, and the dog seems happiest when performing this task. Although more lightly built than other sled dogs, the Siberian Husky is tough, strong and full of endurance.

This is a purposeful, medium-sized dog. The head is rather fox-like in appearance, with a slightly rounded skull and a medium-length muzzle. The nose is black in grey, black or tan dogs, liver in copper-coloured dogs, and flesh-colored in white individuals. The eyes are almond-shaped and may be brown, blue, or parti-coloured. The triangular ears are held firmly erect. The neck is arched and is carried on a medium-length muscular and deep-chested body. Well-muscular, powerful legs end in oval, slightly webbed feet with fur between the toes. The tail has a fox-like brush.

The outercoat is straight and smooth-lying; the undercoat is soft and dense. The coat may be of any colour, including white.

Friendly and extremely tolerant towards human beings, the same cannot always be said about the Siberian Husky's attitude to other dogs, which it will usually try to dominate. Indifferent to the coldest of weather, the breed is not a typical pet by any means. It will jump over almost anything, or dig under it, and will usually pull on the leash and then take off when released. The breed is mostly kept for sled racing.

The Siberian Husky is not the ideal pet, and will jump over fences and dig its way out of anywhere. It can also be agressive with other dogs and  because of its dense coat is not very happy kept indoors, having been bred to work outside in a harsher climate.

Labrador Retriever

Believed to have its origins in Greenland, where similar dogs were once used by fishermen to retrieve fish. It was introduced to Britain in the late 1800s, where it earned a good reputation in field trials. The breed club for these dogs was begun comparatively recently, in 1996, with the Yellow Labrador club being formed in 1925. One the best-know and popular breeds in the world today, the Labrador Retriever is a great all-rounder, in that it can be utilized in a variety of working roles as well as that of a companion and pet.

Instantly recognizable, the overall impression is of a strongly-built, active dog. The head has a broad skull with a broad, medium-length muzzle. The eyes are brown or hazel, and should express intelligence and good nature. The ears are set fairly far back on the head and hang flat. The strong neck is carried on a body with a broad, deep chest. The legs are well-developed. The tail is thick and broad and covered in short, dense fur, giving the dog a rounded look.

The distinctive outercoat is short and dense and fairly hard to the touch; the undercoat is waterproof. Colours may be solid black, yellow or liver.

The Labrador is an intelligent, soft-mouthed retriever with a willingness to work and a love of water. Happiest out in the countryside, the dog nevertheless makes an adaptable and devoted family pet and is patient with children.

Labrador are capable, energetic dogs, eager and enthusiastic to work and play. Beware of overfeeding, however, for there is also a tendency towards obesity.