Pyrenean Shepherd vs Miniature Fox Terrier - Breed Comparison

Pyrenean Shepherd vs Miniature Fox Terrier - Breed ComparisonMiniature Fox Terrier is originated from Australia but Pyrenean Shepherd is originated from Spain. Miniature Fox Terrier may grow 20 cm / 7 inches shorter than Pyrenean Shepherd. Miniature Fox Terrier may weigh 14 kg / 30 pounds lesser than Pyrenean Shepherd. Both Miniature Fox Terrier and Pyrenean Shepherd has almost same life span. Both Miniature Fox Terrier and Pyrenean Shepherd has same litter size. Miniature Fox Terrier requires Low Maintenance. But Pyrenean Shepherd requires Moderate Maintenance

Basic Information

Group:
Terrier dog
Herding dogs
undefined
Australia
Spain
Height Male:
24 - 30 cm
9 - 12 inches
38 - 50 cm
14 - 20 inches
Height Female:
24 - 30 cm
9 - 12 inches
38 - 50 cm
14 - 20 inches
Weight Male:
3 - 6 kg
6 - 14 pounds
14 - 20 kg
30 - 45 pounds
Weight Female:
3 - 6 kg
6 - 14 pounds
14 - 20 kg
30 - 45 pounds
Life Span:
10 - 14 Years
10 - 15 Years
Litter Size:
1 - 4
2 - 4
Size:
Small
Medium
Other Names:
Mini Foxies,Toy Fox Terrie
Pyr Shep
Colors Available:
black, White and tan, white and black - tri-colored, white, tan
grey, black overlay occasionally, Fawn, some white - solid colors or tri-colored
Coat:
Short and smooth
Long or short haired - soft or wiry
Shedding:
Moderate
Moderate
Temperament:
Affectionate, Alert, Cheerful, Courageous, Curious, Energetic, Friendly, Gentle, Independent, Intelligent, Lively, Loving, Loyal, Outgoing, Playful, Protective, Responsive, Social, Stubborn, Sweet, Territorial
Affectionate, Alert, Cheerful, Courageous, Curious, Docile, Energetic, Friendly, Gentle, Independent, Intelligent, Lively, Loving, Loyal, Outgoing, Playful, Protective, Quiet, Responsive, Social, Stubborn, Sweet, Territorial
Grooming:
Low Maintenance
Moderate Maintenance
Trainability:
Easy
Easy
Hypoallergenic:
No
No
Kids Friendly:
Yes
Yes
New Owners Friendly:
Yes
Yes

History

miniature fox terrierKnown as Mini Foxies or Toy Fox Terriers, these dogs hail from Australia, having been bred there since the 1800s already.

They are descendants of fox terrier types which were bred in England and then brought to Australia by early settlers.

It is believed the small Smooth Fox Terriers were crossed with Manchester Terriers and then the puppies further bred and crossed with other small breeds. The idea was to have a small, light, quick dog. The Miniature Fox Terrier is exactly like this, developed as a hunting dog.

pyrenean shepherdThe Pyrenean Shepherd hails from Spain where he has always been used to herd sheep. Some people believe he is a descendant of the French Catalan Sheepdog while others say from the Briard. Nobody is too sure.

He is actually the smallest of the French herding breeds. It is interesting to note that he still does this herding job today. It was in the 19th century that a few of these dogs left for America with shepherds who found work herding flocks in the American West.

These dogs were also used in World War 1 as messenger dogs.

It was during the 1970's and 1980's that breeding programs were started for the dog and The Pyrenean Shepherd Club of America was formed in 1987. The dog was also recognized in 2009 by the American Kennel Club.

Description

miniature fox terrier puppy - descriptionWith longevity on his side, the Miniature Fox Terrier can live to be between 10 and 14 years of age or live to be even older - up to 18 years of age.

He stands at between 24 – 30cm and weighs anything between 3 and 6kg. His coat is short but he sheds quite a bit so regular brushing will become necessary.

The coat is smooth and is mostly white and tan or white and black but it can be tri-colored too – white, black and tan.

The ears are semi-erect, semi floppy and he has a bright, expectant look about him. The tail has always been traditionally docked, giving him a distinctive look, but now it tends to be undocked.

Temperament:

Your Miniature Fox Terrier is a bold little dog, and is protective and loyal towards his human family. He is lively and courageous and has lots of energy so he will be wanting lots of games indoors and out. He will love to go on a walk every day.

They make great family pets, getting on well with children and other pets in the home. They’re adaptable and can do well in the city or the countryside.

pyrenean shepherd puppy - descriptionThe Pyrenean Shepherd is a medium-sized dog standing at between 38 and 50cm in height and weighing between 14 and 20kg.

His head is fairly small with large, bright, expressive eyes. The ears are semi-erect. The tail has always traditionally been docked but often left long these days.

He comes with two different coat types – rough and smooth with sometimes both types being in the same litter. The dog is a regular shedder. The coat can be medium length or long and slightly wavy with a harsh texture. The coat can be of the shorter type with finer, softer hair. The coat is available in different colors and patterns, and can be a fawn color or grey and you will find a black overlay occasionally with some white. The coat can be tri-colored or he can be in solid colors such as cream or white.

Temperament:

Your feisty Pyrenean Shepherd is a dog with plenty of personality. He is also full of energy and will love to live with a outdoorsy-type family who are always on the go, because he’s in on everything.

He is distrustful of strangers and this together with the fact that he is so alert, makes him a splendid watchdog too.

He will need to be trained and socialized as he can be overly robust. He becomes obedient and well mannered, being totally dedicated to his owner. It isn’t easy for him to be separated from his beloved human owner.

Characteristics

miniature fox terrier dog - characteristicsMiniature Fox Terriers aren’t going to disappoint you one bit in terms of making an excellent pet.They make great family pets. They are loyal companions and they also make great watchdogs, being able to adapt to life in the city as well as the countryside.

They can yap quite loudly so you need to be careful of this if you live in a small property in the city.

This is such a jaunty little dog, full of fun and high spirits. You won’t know a dull moment with such a friendly, entertaining little pet. In exchange for all he offers you in terms of friendship, he also wants your love and attention.

Provide him with good food, a good deal of exercise, a dry, warm place to sleep and your ongoing attention and he is going to shower you with his love and loyalty.

pyrenean shepherd dog - characteristicsThe Pyrenean Shepherd is essentially a one-person dog, becoming totally attached to one particular person in the family.

He is known as a dog who becomes totally loyal to his human family, getting on well with children as well as with other pets in the home.

He is aloof and wary of strangers. Training and socialization is important so as to avoid aggression and fear. This is one dog that requires being diligently exercised every day.

He is a great watchdog, and when you add up all his fantastic qualities, you get to realize what a splendid companion and pet this wonderful dog makes.

Health Problems

miniature fox terrier puppies - health problemsYour Miniature Fox Terrier can live to be between 10 and 14 years of age when looked after well, but there are one or two common dog illness that can plague any dog, and Paella Luxation is one.

Patella luxation is fairly common with small dogs, occuring when the dog’s kneecap becomes dislocated from its thigh bone.Your dog will skip and hop along. Treatment for patella luxation can range from non-invasive treatments such as massage to surgery.

Dental health is important too, and seriously bad breath can be indicative of dental decay. Dental plaque can cause bad breath and lead to other health problems that aren’t directly related to teeth. The heart and kidneys can be put at risk. There are dental products such as canine toothbrush and toothpaste which can be used to clean your dog’s teeth. Don’t ever use human toothpaste as this can be toxic for your pet.

pyrenean shepherd puppies - health problemsThe Pyrenean Shepherd is such a jovial little dog that you just can’t imagine him ever being sick. When he is lethargic, you'll know there is something seriously wrong with him because he is always as bright as a button.

He can however get sick, and there are a few dog illnesses such as epilepsy, eye problems and hip dysplasia that can be very painful ad debilitating for such an energetic dog. You don’t have to be too concerned though, as he is a dog known to have minimal health issues.

Caring The Pet

miniature fox terrier dogs - caringFeed your terrier a quality commercially manufactured dog food twice a day. They are small dogs, but highly energetic so choose dog foods which are geared towards small, energetic dogs.

His age and his activity levels will also give you an idea as to what to feed him. Apart from dry kibble, give him simple, tasty, nutritious home-made food too.Every now and again, add in boiled chicken, brown rice or pasta and some cooked vegetables such as potato, carrots and spinach. A little bit of raw meat occasionally can also do wonders.

Keep meals plain and simple like this to avoid stomach upsets.

Ensure your pet has constant access to fresh, cool water.

Brush him twice a week to keep the coat free of loose hair. Try and avoid bathing your pet as it causes dry skin and itchiness. Rather wipe him down with a rubber grooming mitt to keep him groomed.

Check his eyes and ears for infection. Check for fleas and ticks and any unusual lumps. Trim his nails too.

Take him to the vet when he appears to be ill and keep his vaccines up to date.

Grooming:

pyrenean shepherd dogs - caringThis will depend on the coat type. Both coat types will essentially require you brushing him twice a week.

Exercise:

The Pyr Shep’s activity levels are very high and this dog will require living with people who love outdoor activities. He’s the perfect companion for those camping trips or hikes. He is always ready to join you on your walks and will be ready and waiting to jump right in when he sees you with a ball or frisbee.

Diet:

For all that energy, your Pyrenean Shepherd will be needing the best dog food there is. Food full of preservatives and colorants can be bad for your pet, detrimental to his health.

Good food full of vitamins and minerals will ensure your pet stands a good chance of living a long, healthy life. If you feed him commercially manufactured dog food, ensure its the best there is, with labeling on the packaging that tells you its for his age, his size and energy levels.

Consistency and simplicity is what your Pyrenean Shepherd wants, and home-made food can enhance his dry kibble. 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 your pet’s eyes are continuously bright and alert and his tail constantly wagging.

Some raw meat added in occasionally will also go towards ensuring his good health. Always make sure he has access to fresh, cool water.

Comparison with other breeds

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