Dog Breeds: C
A medium-sized, powerfully-built dog, the Ca de Bou was traditionally used to bait bulls on the Spanish island of Majorca. Once this barbaric sport was outlawed in the 19th century, the breed took on a new role as a guard dog and much-loved family pet. Nowadays, however, the breed are more commonly seen in eastern Europe than in Spain.
A cheerful designer dog who enjoys running about inside their home and socialising with both people and animals, the Cairmal is a little people pleaser. It’s important to understand that this is not a dog that can be left alone for long periods as this will inevitably result in unhappiness and anxiety-driven behaviours, which can be difficult to reverse.
The intrepid and brave Cairn Terrier was bred in the Scottish Highlands for its tenacity and hardiness while pursuing prey, but it has a special place in any family home as a sweet, intelligent, and charming companion, suitable for adults and young children alike. The characteristic wiry coat requires little effort to maintain, and sheds very little, making the Cairn suitable for indoor living.
With a history that can be traced back through the Bible, the Canaan Dog is one of the oldest breeds, and has hardly changed in the past 4000 years. Having spent centuries as a pariah, and only being domesticated again the 1930s, it has a well-developed suspicion of strangers and can be aggressive with other dogs, but is loving and loyal with its family.
Intelligent, affectionate, and obedient, the Canadian Eskimo Dog has many fine qualities, but is seldom kept as a pet. As well as being an extremely rare breed, it is a true workaholic, with massive exercise requirements, having adapted to its difficult life hauling people and goods within the Arctic Circle over many hundreds of years.
A diligent watch dog, the Cane Corso has been used for thousands of years as a guardian of livestock, property and people. Fiercely loyal, this dog will protect its family from any threat, never backing down. Seen commonly today as a household pet, with sufficient training, the Cane Corso can make a dedicated family member, though caution is always advised with such a powerful animal.
The Canis Panther is an interesting dog that many are unfamiliar with. A blend of the Labrador, Doberman, American Staffie and Great Dane, these hybrids are natural guard dogs that can get along well with people and other dogs once thoroughly socialised. They are wary of people they don’t know and can be overtly hostile so do require an experienced owner.
The Cantabrian Water Dog is an old breed that has suffered a dramatic decrease in its numbers. Bred to support the work of fishermen, with modernisation, their skills are no longer required. With a woolly coat, they have something of an echo of the Poodle about them, and perhaps their willing nature and sweet character will one day lead to a resurgence in numbers.
A force to be reckoned with, the Cão Fila de São Miguel is a courageous and resilient herding dog that has worked on the Azores for several centuries. As well as herding cattle, they are highly regarded as both watch dogs and guard dogs. Quite intolerant of other animals, it is best to keep the Cão Fila de São Miguel alone.
Carkie dogs are a small hybrid breed with big personalities and plenty of pizzazz. While rarely reaching heights of over 30cm, they have a big presence and are hard to ignore. Though small enough to live in apartments, they should be exercised for a minimum of an hour every day to ensure they don’t become bored.
A truly primitive dog, the Carolina dog or American Dingo, has naturally occurred in the wild and was not bred by human intervention. While retaining many of their wild traits and behaviours, in the last few decades many have integrated well into family homes in the United States. Affectionate with the people they know, though wary of strangers, with adequate socialisation, they can become much-loved pets.
An independent and hard-working dog, the Carpathian Shepherd has been used through-out the ages to herd and guard livestock in their native Romania. Their high exercise requirements mean that they require a lot of land to roam on, and a dedicated owner willing to commit time and energy to them. A firm leader, who is consistent in their training, will be of most benefit to this breed.
A real all-rounder, the Catahoula Leopard Dog is popular all across the southern United States for a reason. This dog excels at whatever it does, whether it be herding, hunting, agility or even just making an awesome family pet. A dog with incredibly high exercise requirements and a personality that demands constant attention, this may not be the right breed for everyone.
Mild-mannered, gentle, and obedient, the Catalan Sheepdog is as well-suited to life as a pet as it is to its traditional sheep-herding duties in Spain. This intelligent breed is great with children and a natural guardian, being suspicious of strangers, but it needs plenty of exercise to keep its mind and body active.
The Catalburun, or Turkish Pointer, is an ultra-rare breed, most remarkable for having a double-nose. A hunting dog used to track partridge in the Talus region, the Turkish Pointer is a loyal, athletic and intelligent dog that loves to be on the go all day long. With a reputation for being quiet and not barking, this dog won’t disturb the neighbours.
A working dog by nature, the Caucasian Shepherd is a courageous and powerful defender of livestock, capable of fighting off predators as intimidating as wolves and bears. Incredibly protective of their family, they tend to be wary of strangers, and an experienced trainer is required to ensure this breed does not become dangerously aggressive. Appropriate, early socialisation is vital to prevent them from becoming unmanageable with people and other animals.
A kind-hearted breed, the Cav-A-Malt is a friend to all. Loving and affectionate, this is one dedicated dog, though they can become over-reliant on their owner. Avoid separation anxiety by establishing ground rules and not leaving the dog alone for too long. This pooch requires little exercise and, other than its grooming needs, is quite low maintenance.
The Cava Tzu is a hybrid dog breed – a mix of Cavalier King Charles Spaniel and Shih Tzu. They are a loving breed, renowned for making friend and getting along with people and other pets. They don’t require a lot of exercise and enjoy the company of people, making them an ideal dog for those seeking canine companionship of the less energetic sort.
Cavachons are sweet, playful little dogs whose doe-eyed, fluffy appearance is sure to melt the hardest of hearts. They are extremely friendly and sociable, and get along well with children and other pets. Their low-shedding coat and minimal exercise requirements have made them a favourite choice for apartment-dwellers. Like their Cavalier King Charles parents, they may be prone to degenerative heart disease.
The Cavador is a hybrid dog and the result of breeding a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel with a Labrador Retriever. This hybrid has an outstanding character and makes a great pet for active families. A potential weakness is health problems, with both parent breeds carrying genes for some serious inherited conditions, such as hip dysplasia or heart disease.
The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is a modern breed modelled on a toy hunting spaniel beloved of Charles II. The breed is dependably good-natured, cheerful and eager to please, making it an ideal family pet. It thrives on human contact, and should not be left alone for long periods, but is very adaptable to many different living situations.
The Cavalon is a hybrid mix between a Papillon and a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel. These small to medium sized dogs make great companions, require only moderate exercise, but do need regular grooming. Their main drawback is a risk of heart disease in later life, largely because the condition is so common in the Cavalier side of the family tree.
The Cavapom is a cheerful and family friendly dog that may have a cheeky personality. As they do not need a large amount of exercise or space, they can do well within an urban environment and are suited to apartment life. Most get on very well with people and other dogs and can generally be trusted around children.
Cavapoos are a crossbreed that results from mixing a Poodle and a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel. These dogs are typically very social and affectionate, and are known for being extremely fond of children and other pets. Kind and gentle, Cavapoos won the affection of many families throughout the world, though they were initially bred for people with allergies. Excellent companions, Cavapoos are also very intelligent.
An ancient breed of dog that developed on the Steppes of Central Asia, the Central Asian Shepherd is still prized today for the attributes that made it so valuable all those centuries ago. Their courage, loyalty and physical strength ensure that they are effective guard dogs, able and willing to fight off even the most fearsome of predators.
A sweet-tempered and loyal companion, the Český Fousek is a breed of dog originating in the Czech Republic that is quickly becoming popular all over Europe, and even further afield. Prized for their versatility as hunters, both in the water and on land, they are highly trainable and have impressive stamina. Great with children, they make a superb, all-round family pet.
The Cesky Terrier is a small, cheerful terrier that was originally developed in Czechoslovakia for use as a hunting dog. The breed is relatively long-lived and generally healthy and differs from other terriers as its coat is clipped. The Cesky Terrier is intelligent and quick to learn, making training easy, although the breed can have a stubborn streak. It requires a medium amount of exercise and is reasonably good with children.
The Chabrador is a relatively uncommon first-generation mix of the popular, affectionate Labrador and the dedicated, protective Chow Chow. Most Chabradors are kept as family pets, though they can make excellent watch dogs and guard dogs. Owners must be diligent when it comes to their training to ensure they develop into well-rounded and sociable pets and do not become aggressive.
Cheagles are energetic, fun-loving, and friendly dogs that are a cross between Beagles and Chihuahas. They have a portable size that makes them very popular as companion pets, along with their cheerful personality and gentle nature. Cheagles are fearless, outgoing, and quick to bark. They can be difficult to train and are prone to small dog syndrome, so training and early socialisation is crucial.
The Cheke-A-Pom is a three-way hybrid dog, which is a mix between the Chihuahua, Pekingese, and Pomeranian. A small dog, they require only moderate exercise, and make a good canine companion for the housebound. Their soft, long coat requires regular combing. Health problems include dental disease, weight management difficulties, and breathing issues.
The Chesapeake Bay Retriever is a large breed of dog originally developed in the USA by crossing the Newfoundland with the Labrador to make an exceptional duck hunting dog. It is a very active breed and is highly trainable but needs handling by an experienced owner. The breed can be prone to suffering from separation anxiety and does not need any professional grooming but can shed heavily.
The Chestie is a hybrid dog, which is a cross between a West Highland White Terrier and a Chihuahua. The Chestie is oblivious to their own small size and is an opinionated character that can be feisty at times; therefore, they are not suited to homes with small children. The Chestie needs a moderate amount of regular exercise and may be predisposed to a collapsing trachea, skin problems, and dental disease.
A happy-go-lucky character, the Chi-Chon may be small but it certainly makes up for its lack of size with its amplified personality. A dog who likes to be the life and soul of the household, this breed loves to get attention and will never say not to a game or outing. This is a good breed for those who live in a small home.
An outgoing and sweet-natured dog, the pint-sized Chi-Poo is a very low maintenance breed. Short daily walks and a few games of fetch or chasing should easily meet their exercise requirements, while training sessions and puzzle toys will help to keep their bright minds ticking over. Fragile dogs, small children must be supervised when in their company to avoid any injuries.
One of three Chiens Français, the Chien Français Blanc et Noir is the black and white variant of these French scent hounds. A hunter by nature, this dog loves nothing more than to run alongside its pack in the great outdoors in the pursuit of foxes and deer. This is a breed that adapts surprisingly well to family life.
One of the three Chiens Français, the Chien Français Blanc et Orange is used for hunting in large packs within its native France. Strongly dedicated to its job, this breed puts its work above all else and will never turn down a hunt. Despite this devotion, they can make affectionate pet dogs, as long as their extensive exercise needs are met.
A dedicated hunter, the Chien Français Tricolore is a French scent hound that is not typically kept as a family pet. This breed thrives when on a long-distance hunt with their pack and their musical bays and howls can be heard for miles around. They hunt boar and deer, using their refined sense of smell to seek out their prey.
Chigis are a hardy breed with a lively temperament. They enjoy socialising with people and animals alike and can integrate well into most families. Chigi dogs are rarely lacking in confidence and they love to participate in both training and play sessions. Prone to dental problems, a little bit of tooth brushing each day goes a long way.
The Chihuahua is the smallest breed of dog which originates from Mexico. It has recently risen to popularity due to its small size and ability to make a good companion. They come in two coat types and do not require any specialist grooming. Chihuahuas enjoy company and can be prone to separation anxiety. They are not an appropriate dog for families with small children as they can be snappy. Chihuahuas have a long life span but can still suffer from some health problems.
A lively and well-mannered little dog, this bundle of energy from Chile is the perfect companion to an active family who live in an urban area. Their small size makes them well suited to apartment life, though owners must not neglect their exercise requirements, as to do so could result in a naughty dog that gets up to lots of mischief!
The Chilier, or Chivalier, is a cross between a Chihuahua and Cavalier King Charles Spaniel. This small dog is a good family pet for older children and can adapt to life in an apartment. They can be over protective and may be barkers if bored or left alone for long periods. Potential health problems include wobbly kneecaps, heart disease, and issues with their brain.
A unique and incredibly rare breed, the Chinese Chongqing dog is thought to have originated over 2,000 years ago in South West China. Used historically as a hunter and watchdog on farms, they are more traditionally kept today as companion animals and guard dogs for the suburban home. Loyal and protective with their owners, they can be suspicious of strangers, and need consistent training to develop into well-rounded dogs.
The Chinese Crested Dog might look like an attention-grabbing fashion accessory, but in fact is an ancient breed used to control rats and mice in its native China. Clever and nimble, it is an able competitor in canine sports, and also an affectionate dog that needs constant companionship. Its unique coat requires regular grooming to prevent skin problems.
A very rare breed, especially outside the United States, the Chinook is a sled dog bred for Arctic exploration that has become an exceptionally good pet. Its calm disposition and sociability make it suitable for a range of owners, including those with other dogs. It is gentle with children, and does not have onerous grooming or exercise requirements.
Chions are feisty, confident characters whose attitude to life belies their tiny stature. Bred from Chihuahua and Papillon parents, they have the attitude and stubbornness one would expect, and can be difficult to train. They are loyal and protective of their owners, but irritable and snappy enough to be unsuitable for young children.
The fun-looking, cute, little Chiweenie is a mix between a Chihuahua and a Dachshund. These energetic and playful dogs are great companions, though not recommended for younger children. They are lively and alert, and can be aggressive towards other dogs, so they will thrive in households where they have all the attention. They are generally healthy and have a long lifespan.
A Chonzer is a confident and cheerful combination of the Schnauzer and Bichon Frise that slots in nicely to family life and is relatively low maintenance. They can thrive within small homes and do not necessarily need a back garden, as long as they are walked for about an hour each day. As the fur of the Chonzer does not molt, they tend to be suitable for those with allergies.
Bold and confident, the Chorkie is a toy-sized hybrid with a big personality. This is a lively and alert companion dog that doubles as an excellent watchdog by virtue of its loud and persistent bark. Inheriting the attitude of the Chihuahua and Yorkshire Terrier, this is an assertive, headstrong dog that is not suitable for children or novice owners.
Fierce and stubborn, regal and fearless, the Chow Chow is an ancient breed originating in the Far East. While not necessarily the dog for everyone, this unique breed offers experienced owners unfailing loyalty and protection. Chows require early and ongoing socialisation and firm handling to ensure their strong temperaments do not lead to behavioural problems.
A courageous dog with a big heart, the Chow Pei lives and breathes for its family, and would probably die for them too. While they may not show their affection with kisses and cuddles, they are devoted to their owners and will defend them and their territory from any perceived threat. Intensive socialisation is required to keep this dog under control.
Crossing the athletic and intelligent German Shepherd with the protective Chow Chow has resulted in a devoted and high-maintenance breed called the Chow Shepherd. This dog not only needs a lot of exercise and mental stimulation, they also require intensive training to deal with their dominant behaviour. On top of this, their dense coat sheds constantly and needs daily brushing.
Highly adaptable and friendly, Chugs are a portable size crossbreed that resembles both their parents, the Pug and the Chihuahua. Chugs can be stubborn and may think too much of themselves, making training challenging. They are great companion pets, but not the best for young children and they will thrive best as an only pet, as they tend to be territorial.
A breed that dedicates itself completely to its family, the Chowsky is faithful and devoted. They tend to be high-maintenance individuals; not only because they require plenty of attention, physical activity and mental stimulation, but also because they shed a lot of fur. While training can be a challenge, they can do well in the right hands.
The Cimarrón Uruguayo makes no apology for being a working guard dog through and through. This large, mastiff type earned their reputation for aggression by surviving as feral dogs in the Uruguayan wilderness. Now rehabilitated as guard dogs, they need an experienced handler to keep them in line. The Cimarrón Uruguayo is not suitable as a family pet.
The lean and muscular Cirneco dell’Etna is a native of Sicily, where it is known as a keen and hardy hunter. Though it is a rare breed throughout the rest of the world, its sociable, friendly nature, good health, and trainability make it an attractive option as a pet. It is a clean dog that sheds little, and may appeal to apartment dwellers.
The largest of the spaniel breeds, the Clumber Spaniel is a mellow and easy-going dog, bred to work in a slow and steady manner that it applies to every aspect of its life. Sometimes called the “retired gentleman’s dog”, the Clumber rarely gets overly excited, but it is an affectionate and cuddly breed at home, while being reserved with strangers.
A hybrid that is not seen much, the Clumberton is a mixture of the large, slow Cumberland Spaniel and the plucky Bedlington Terrier. Dogs that only require moderate exercise and do not need large homes or gardens, Clumbertons can do well in urban environments. Most will agree that those with young children should probably opt for a different breed.
The Cock-A-Chon is a friendly dog with a kind disposition and one who thoroughly enjoys the company of everyone, including children. Their exercise needs are not excessive and they would fit in well with a household that is relatively active. Compared to other hybrids, they can be a real pleasure to train and are very responsive to their owners.
The Cock-A-Tzu is a hybrid dog, which is a mix between the American Cocker Spaniel and Shih Tzu. They are a small but sturdy dog, with lots of long soft fur and a loving nature. The Cock-A-Tzu may be anxious if left alone a lot, but does mix well with other pets. Generally a healthy dog, health problems most likely to arise include luxating kneecaps and allergic skin disease.
A loving dog that will trust their owner completely, the Cockalier makes a wonderful family pet, as well as a rewarding training partner. Sweet-natured, with a heart of gold, the Cockalier is a good choice of pet for those with young children. It should be noted that there is the potential for behavioural issues to develop if under-stimulated.
The Cockapoo was the original designer dog, and its enduring popularity over the past 50 years is a reflection of its cheerful personality and extreme sociability. It is a small to medium dog of great intelligence that comes in a range of coat types and colours, which can take some work to maintain. An extremely affectionate hybrid, it is happiest when lying on its owner’s lap.
A happy, go-lucky dog, the Cocker Pug enjoys socialising and is a real little character. With quite low exercise requirements, this breed can make a good choice for a busy family or an older person. They do crave attention and like to be around the action, so should not be left alone for extended periods of time.
Collies are medium to largesized dogs with a long muzzle and light head, originally used as sheep herding dogs in Scotland. There are two varieties of Collies: a long-haired version (Rough Collie) and a short-haired variety (Smooth Collie). Collies are sensitive and intelligent dogs, naturally protective of their family, having a strong intuition for anticipating troublesome situations. Collies are active dogs and excellent athletes.
The Corgidor is a hybrid dog resulting from breeding a Labrador with a Corgi. Far from being a miniature Labrador, the Corgidor varies considerably both in stature and character. The strong-willed nature of the Corgi can make for a potentially demanding hybrid that may not be suited to first time dog owners.
The Corgipom is a hybrid – a mix between a Welsh Pembroke Corgi parent and a Pomeranian. This small to medium-sized dog has an almost fox-like appearance with a thick coat. They are intelligent, strong-willed, and can be over-protective of their possessions and territory that leads to aggression. Potential health problems include allergic skin disease, wobbly kneecaps, and a tendency to weight gain.
A mild-mannered and affectionate family dog, the Corgipoo can make a wonderful pet. Bonding closely with all family members, it is possible that the Corgipoo can become too attached so beware of separation anxiety developing. Keep this breed active with lots of puzzles, games and fun activities, as well as 30 to 60 minutes of exercise every day.
The Corkie is a mixture of Cocker Spaniel and Yorkshire Terrier. These lively energetic dogs do best with an owner who understands their tendency to anxiety, and handles the trait appropriately. This means plenty of socialisation as a puppy and on-going reward-based training as an adult. The Corkie coat requires daily brushing and the breed are prone to knee problems.
The Cosheltie is a hybrid dog breed, which is a cross between the Border Collie and Shetland Sheepdog. They are medium-sized with a thick coat that requires plenty of grooming. With a shared herding heritage, the Cosheltie is an active dog that requires plenty of exercise. Potential health problems include inherited conditions, such as Collie Eye Anomaly and the heart condition patent ductus arteriosus.
The Coton de Tulear is a toy breed, which is extremely sociable and affectionate, making a good companion. The breed has a distinctive fluffy ‘cotton’ like coat and originates from Madagascar. It does not shed but requires regular brushing. The breed can suffer from some health problems so choosing a healthy family line is important.
The Croatian Sheepdog dates back to 14th century Croatia. Expert herders and watchdogs, but prone to shyness, when well socialised they make great family dogs. Originally intended as working dogs, however, potential owners will need to be sure to give the breed plenty of exercise to keep it happy and healthy.
Curly Coated Retrievers are easily distinguished from other retriever breeds by their distinctive coats. They are one of the oldest retriever breeds but are now quite rare. As an energetic and playful dog, a Curly Coated Retriever makes for a good outdoor companion. They love to play fetch both on dry land and in the water.
An authentic wolf-dog hybrid, the Czechoslovakian Wolfdog was developed in 1955 within Czechoslovakia as a result of a scientific experiment that crossed Carpathian wolves with German Shepherd dogs. The dogs produced were found to be more sociable than wolves, though more difficult to train than dogs, and were extensively used by both the military and the police. Now more commonly kept as companion animals, they are not recommended for inexperienced owners.