SAMOYED

The Samoyed was originally used to guard the reindeer herds and pull the sleds of the wandering tribesmen of the Siberian tundra. Fur traders brought the breed back to Britain. Samoyeds have also been used on a number of polar expeditions.

A well-proportioned and graceful spitz-type dog, with a sparkling, stand-off coat. The head is wedge-shaped with a wide skull and a medium-length muzzle. The nose may be black, brown or flesh-coloured. The brown eyes are almond-shaped, enhancing the 'laughing' expression so characteristic of this dog. The ears are held erect. The strong neck is carried on a broad, muscular body with a deep chest. The legs are very muscular and well-back. The tail is held curled over the back and to one side.

The Samoyed has a thick, close, short undercoat and a harsh, straight outercoat which grows away from the body, giving protection from the cold. Colours are pure white, white-and-biscuit, and cream.

A charming dog that loves human company. Fairly obedient in a rather laid-back way, the breed nevertheless enjoys life and lets everyone know it. The coat needs plenty of grooming, but the Samoyed id quite happy to submit itself to any amount of attention.

The Samoyed is lively, jolly animal, fairly obedient despite having a mind of its own. The thick coat can be rather troublesome to the dog in warmer climates, however, and very regular grooming is required.

WELSH CORGI (PEMBROKE)

The better-known of the two breeds of Welsh Corgi, this version usually has its tail docked. Another cattle-driving dog, the Pembroke also earned its keep by nipping at the heels of cattle to encourage them to move on - a trick that on occasions has been tried on human being as well! Besides having a long working history, the dog is a favourite pet of Queen Elizabeth II of English, who has owned many examples of the breed over the years.

A sturdy, short-legged and active dog, the head has fox-like appearance, with a wide, flat skull and a tapering muzzle. The nose is black. The round eyes are brown in colour, and the ears are of medium size with rounded tips, widely-spaced and held erect. A fairly long, muscular neck is carried on a long, fairly broad-chested body. The legs are short but strong, and the feet are oval. The tail is usually docked.

The weatherproof coat is short or slightly longer and has a hard texture. Colours are red, sable, fawn, or black and tan, usually with white markings on the legs, neck, chest and face.

A popular and outgoing dog, the Pembroke makes a good companion for an active family, liking nothing better than a good romp out in the open air, followed by a good square meal. Its fondness for food, however, should be moderated to avoid obesity.

The Pembroke Corgi's chief claim to fame is its popularity with the British Royal family, since the breed has been kept for many years by Queen Elizabeth and her mother before her.