Sussex Spaniel vs Atlas Terrier - Breed Comparison

Sussex Spaniel vs Atlas Terrier - Breed ComparisonAtlas Terrier is originated from United States but Sussex Spaniel is originated from United Kingdom. Atlas Terrier may grow 10 cm / 3 inches shorter than Sussex Spaniel. Atlas Terrier may weigh 14 kg / 30 pounds lesser than Sussex Spaniel. Both Atlas Terrier and Sussex Spaniel has almost same life span. Both Atlas Terrier and Sussex Spaniel has same litter size. Both Atlas Terrier and Sussex Spaniel requires Moderate Maintenance.

Basic Information

Group:
Terrier dog
Sporting dog
undefined
United States
United Kingdom
Height Male:
23 - 28 cm
9 - 12 inches
33 - 38 cm
12 - 15 inches
Height Female:
23 - 28 cm
9 - 12 inches
33 - 38 cm
12 - 15 inches
Weight Male:
2 - 6 kg
4 - 14 pounds
16 - 20 kg
35 - 45 pounds
Weight Female:
2 - 5 kg
4 - 12 pounds
16 - 20 kg
35 - 45 pounds
Life Span:
11 - 17 Years
12 - 15 Years
Litter Size:
4 - 8
2 - 8
Size:
Medium
Medium
Other Names:
None
The Sussex
Colors Available:
Several - Brindle, Merle
Golden liver
Coat:
Short and dense
Quite long, thick, silky
Shedding:
Moderate
Moderate
Temperament:
Affectionate, Alert, Cheerful, Courageous, Curious, Energetic, Friendly, Independent, Intelligent, Lively, Loving, Loyal, Outgoing, Playful, Protective, Responsive, Social, Sweet
Affectionate, Alert, Cheerful, Courageous, Curious, Docile, Energetic, Friendly, Gentle, Independent, Intelligent, Lively, Loving, Loyal, Outgoing, Playful, Protective, Quiet, Responsive, Social, Stubborn, Sweet, Territorial
Grooming:
Moderate Maintenance
Moderate Maintenance
Trainability:
Easy
Easy
Hypoallergenic:
No
No
Kids Friendly:
Yes
Yes
New Owners Friendly:
Yes
Yes

History

atlas terrierThe Atlas Terrier is a rare dog. He was developed in the USA and is a blend of Jack Russell Terriers, Rat Terriers, Border Terriers and Patterdale Terriers. It was in 1990 that Lauren Wolfe developed a breed similar to the Jack Russell, but with a solid colour, and in fact she had two dogs that were solid red in colour. This was as a result of a cross between a Jack Russell Terrier and a Border Terrier.

With the crossing of different terriers, the foundation for the Atlas Terrier was formed. Lauren Wolfe named the breed ‘Atlas Terrier’ because many terriers from various parts of the world were used to develop this specific breed. It was in 2001 that the Atlas Terrier Association was founded.

sussex spanielThe Sussex Spaniel comes from Sussex in southern England. The whole purpose of his development was for him to rush between reeds, causing birds to fly up and for their owners to then shoot them so that they could retrieve them.

His history dates back to the 19th century when breeding for the dog started. The first breed standard was also written during this time.

It was about in 1969 that some of these Sussex Spaniels were imported to the United States where they were referred to as a sporting breed. Today they are still a rare breed.

Description

A Feisty, Fun Breed

atlas terrier puppy - descriptionAtlas Terrier dogs are a small to medium sized dog but with a strong personality. With their two coat varieties – smooth and wire – and coming directly from the Jack Russell Terrier, this feisty dog suits those who want a low maintenance, fun breed who will join them on their walks or jogs. These dogs are brave and loyal and will double as a watch dog and family pet.The breed is accepted for registry and it is classified under the Terrier dog category.

Different Sizes

There are 3 sizes of Atlas Terrier – toy, miniature, and standard. The toy variety is 23 to 28 cm tall at the shoulder and weighs 2.7 to 5.4 kg. All three varieties are the same except for height and weight.

The Coat - Smooth or Wavy?

The coat of this dog is thick and may come in a variety of colours such as brindle or merle. The Atlas Terrier is also found in solid colours and sometimes you will find that they have white markings on the face, feet or chest. Most times the tail of the Atlas Terrier is docked, but if not, the tail curls over the back. The ears of the Atlas Terrier are V-shaped and they fold forward.

sussex spaniel puppy - descriptionWith his low, long body and short legs, this beautiful golden liver color spaniel has long, silky ears and a long, feathery tail.

He is a moderate shedder. He is quite a distinctive looking dog with his silky coat and sombre expression. You’d descibe him as medium sized dog, standing at between 33 – 38cm in height and weighing 16 -20kg.

Temperament:

The Sussex Spaniel is more slow and sedate than the Cocker Spaniel but he still makes an excellent pet and companion.

He is strong and robust. He is clever too, but slightly stubborn, while also being clownish and entertaining. They’re the kind of dogs who bond strongly with their family and aren’t that enthusiastic with strangers.

They take a while to warm towards people they don’t know. He is steady, reliable and determined and makes a good watchdog. Because he is gentle and even tempered he makes an ideal pet for children and he is able to get on well with other dogs too.

It’s good to have them trained and socialized as they become even more amicable around other people and dogs they don’t know.

Characteristics

atlas terrier dog - characteristicsAtlas Terriers most certainly have a bit of the Jack Russell in them and these dogs are social, outgoing, mischievous and affectionate. They’re just like your regular naughty child and having one of them in your home will mean energy and lots of fun and games.

This is a highly social breed and he won’t like to be left alone every day. Just like a human child, he will need to be stimulated to ward off boredom and to prevent him from becoming destructive.

Learning Abilities

The Atlas Terrier just loves games and if you’re ready for a game, he will be more than ready to take part. He is intelligent and will therefore responds well to training and socialization. When properly socialized, Atlas Terriers get along well with children, and because they’re not an aggressive breed, if they’re properly trained and socialized they will get along with other pets too. Atlas Terriers make excellent pets, but he is a strong willed dog and will require an owner who is firm, but fair.

The Sussex Spaniel makes the perfect pet for families where there are children.

sussex spaniel dog - characteristicsHe is a low drooling dog and he adapts easily to life with his human family, preferably in the countryside.

He isn’t the most intelligent breed, but most people love him just like that because he’s eager to please and just wants to be your trusted, loyal pet and companion.

Health Problems

atlas terrier puppies - health problemsThe selective breeding program of Atlas Terriers has meant that this is a robust, spunky breed free of any major health concerns. While they are a low maintenance breed with longevity on their side, you still have to be a responsible pet owner and see that your Atlas Terrier puppy gets all those must have injections.

Vaccinating your Atlas Terrier Puppy

Tiny puppies are susceptible to infectious diseases and will have to be vaccinated against them from 8 weeks on and then also get an annual booster. The diseases to be vaccinated against include hepatitis, distemper, parvovirus, coronavirus, eptospirosis and parainfluenza. Vaccinations must be kept up to date and it is mandatory for your puppy to be vaccinated against rabies.

sussex spaniel puppies - health problemsYour Sussex, like any other dog, is going to be prone to some diseases and conditions. If you are going for a puppy, always look for a reputable dog breeder, as this at least gives your dog a better chance of a healthy life.

Some health conditions that can affect your Sussex Spaniel include -

Pulmonic Stenosis: 

This is a congenital heart disease where blood doesn't flow properly and where the right side of the heart works harder and actually enlarges.

If the obstruction is severe, it can cause arrhythmia or congestive heart failure.

If the stenosis is mild, you may not even notice any conditions, but if it's severe, your pet may have difficulty with breathing, his stomach may be distended, and with strenuous exercise he could even collapse.

Intervertebral Disc Disease:

This is when a disc in the spine ruptures and pushes upward into the spinal cord. It can be an injury or an inherited condition.It is painful and will include anti-inflammatory medications and possibly surgery.

Caring The Pet

atlas terrier dogs - caringAs a medium shedder, the Atlas Terrier will require some grooming. Grooming is easy and a brush twice a week with a rubber-bristled brush will remove those loose hairs and give his coat a sheen.

Feeding the Puppy

Always make sure you’re feeding your tiny puppy the right quantities of a food type. Always feed your puppy food which is appropriate to his age. Your 8 week old puppy will require 4 meals a day. A highly active breed such as the Atlas Terrier will require more protein for energy.

Speak to your veterinarian about the perfect diet for your puppy and about wet- or dry foods. There is the choice of feeding your puppy commercial dog food or your own home-prepared meals, but then you want to be sure that your puppy is getting the right balance of minerals and vitamins.

Once your Atlas Terrier is about a year of age, he can go onto one meal a day or a lighter meal in the morning and the evening. Remember to ensure that there is always clean, cool water available for your puppy.

Grooming:

sussex spaniel dogs - caringBecause of the long, silky hair, brushing your Sussex twice a week will be necessary to prevent matting from dirt adhering to the fur.

The insides of those long floppy ears can be a breeding spot for bacteria as they don’t easily dry. When you brush him, check inside the ears to make sure they aren't red which could be a sign of ear infection.

Remember, if you don’t like to do all the grooming chores there are, a grooming parlour will do the chores for you. They cut your dog’s hair, check inside his ears, clean his teeth and trim his nails.

Diet:

Every dog needs excellent food to be healthy. Many people feed their pets the wrong kinds of foods and then wonder why they have to fork up so much on vets fees.

If you feed your Sussex Spaniel one of the commercial manufactured foods, make sure its one of the good ones packed with vitamins and minerals. Tasty home-made food added to his kibble a couple of times a week can do him the world of good if its kept simple – no spicey, exotic foods that can upset the stomach.

Boiled chicken, brown rice or pasta and spinach, sweet potatoes and carrots all chopped up and mixed into the dry kibble once or twice a week will ensure a healthy, happy pet.

To avoid skin allergies and a dull coat, try and add in some raw meat occasionally. Always make sure he has access to fresh, cool water.

Exercise:

These dogs have been accustomed to a life of running in open spaces and they’re going to want lots of exercise. They love ball games and they love a walk in the countryside with lots of new scents to follow.

It’s why this dog isn’t suited to life in a small city property. He needs space and the outdoors to use up his energy.

Comparison with other breeds

  1. Atlas Terrier vs English Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  2. Atlas Terrier vs German Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  3. Atlas Terrier vs Golden Retriever - Breed Comparison
  4. Atlas Terrier vs Labrador Retriever - Breed Comparison
  5. Atlas Terrier vs West Highland White Terrier - Breed Comparison
  6. Atlas Terrier vs French Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  7. Atlas Terrier vs Beagle - Breed Comparison
  8. Atlas Terrier vs Yorkshire Terrier - Breed Comparison
  9. Atlas Terrier vs Poodle - Breed Comparison
  10. Atlas Terrier vs Rottweiler - Breed Comparison
  11. Atlas Terrier vs Boxer - Breed Comparison
  12. Atlas Terrier vs English Pointer - Breed Comparison
  13. Atlas Terrier vs Siberian Husky - Breed Comparison
  14. Atlas Terrier vs Doberman Pinscher - Breed Comparison
  15. Atlas Terrier vs American Bully - Breed Comparison
  16. Atlas Terrier vs Abruzzenhund - Breed Comparison
  17. Atlas Terrier vs Affenpinscher - Breed Comparison
  18. Atlas Terrier vs Afghan Hound - Breed Comparison
  19. Atlas Terrier vs Aidi - Breed Comparison
  20. Atlas Terrier vs Airedale Terrier - Breed Comparison
  21. Atlas Terrier vs Akbash Dog - Breed Comparison
  22. Atlas Terrier vs Akita - Breed Comparison
  23. Atlas Terrier vs Africanis - Breed Comparison
  24. Atlas Terrier vs Askal - Breed Comparison
  25. Aussie Poo vs Atlas Terrier - Breed Comparison
  26. Sussex Spaniel vs English Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  27. Sussex Spaniel vs German Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  28. Sussex Spaniel vs Golden Retriever - Breed Comparison
  29. Sussex Spaniel vs Labrador Retriever - Breed Comparison
  30. Sussex Spaniel vs West Highland White Terrier - Breed Comparison
  31. Sussex Spaniel vs French Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  32. Sussex Spaniel vs Beagle - Breed Comparison
  33. Sussex Spaniel vs Yorkshire Terrier - Breed Comparison
  34. Sussex Spaniel vs Poodle - Breed Comparison
  35. Sussex Spaniel vs Rottweiler - Breed Comparison
  36. Sussex Spaniel vs Boxer - Breed Comparison
  37. Sussex Spaniel vs English Pointer - Breed Comparison
  38. Sussex Spaniel vs Siberian Husky - Breed Comparison
  39. Sussex Spaniel vs Doberman Pinscher - Breed Comparison
  40. Sussex Spaniel vs American Bully - Breed Comparison
  41. Sussex Spaniel vs Abruzzenhund - Breed Comparison
  42. Sussex Spaniel vs Affenpinscher - Breed Comparison
  43. Sussex Spaniel vs Afghan Hound - Breed Comparison
  44. Sussex Spaniel vs Aidi - Breed Comparison
  45. Sussex Spaniel vs Airedale Terrier - Breed Comparison
  46. Sussex Spaniel vs Akbash Dog - Breed Comparison
  47. Sussex Spaniel vs Akita - Breed Comparison
  48. Sussex Spaniel vs Africanis - Breed Comparison
  49. Sussex Spaniel vs Askal - Breed Comparison
  50. Sussex Spaniel vs Atlas Terrier - Breed Comparison