Smithfield vs Mountain Burmese - Breed Comparison

The Burmese Mountain Dog is quite often taken to be the Bernese Mountain Dog, a Swiss farm dog. However, the Burmese Mountain Dog comes not from Switzerland but from Myanmar and Burma. The Burmese was bred to hunt skunks and guard livestock for the northern tribesman of Myanmar. The way they hunted for the aggravating skunks was to hide themselves in the underbrush and wait for the skunk to go by. Their facial markings confuse skunks when they see him in the bush with a black and white face. At the same time, his rust color lets the hunter know he is the dog not the skunk.

The Mountain Burmese is an incredible athlete despite the size. They are agile. They are quick. They can climb trees – as many as fifty feet while chasing a skunk. They also make a great companion and love to be a family dog. They are calm and gentle as an adult and great with kids. They are easily trained but remember they can climb trees. However, they do not do well with cats that are black and white or solid black because they confuse them with the skunk prey.

The Smithfield is also known as the Smithfield, Smithy or Tasmanian Smithfield and is a herding dog found in Australia but originating in the UK. There is also the possibility that there was an Australian dog bred at a place known as Smithfield, near Texas which is just inside the Queensland border.

It is thought by some that the Smithfield is extinct. The dog was first introduced to the Land Down Under in colonial times.

The Smithfield isn’t recognised by the Canine Councils, but in 1862 the first Dog Show was held in Australia.

The Mountain Burmese Dog is a large, sturdy, well built and athletic canine. Strong and well balanced, he is agile and athletic when it comes to the work, he has to do in chasing skunks. He has a full body with a large head and dark, oval eyes. The Burmese has triangular ears close to his head and medium in size. With a flat, broad skull the muzzle is straight and strong. They have black noses and a scissors bite, on their muscular, strong neck. With a deep chest and broad back, they have strong ribs. Finally, the tail is bushy, long and hangs low.

The Smithfield is a medium to large sized dog, strong and square-bodied with a wedge shaped head. Many people liken his looks to a Bearded Collie.

He has a rough, medium length coat. The coat has different colors such as white, black, grey or reddish brown. The coat is shaggy and in fact they are often clipped to give them a groomed look and to prevent grass and burrs clinging to the coat.

The tail of the dog can either be a natural bobtail or it could have a longer tail. When the tail is long it is carried low with an upward turn at the tip. The ears are mostly floppy and held close to the head.

He stands at between 46 to 53cm in height and weighs between 16 and 25kg. A bright, alert expression is a distinctive feature of the Smithfield.

Temperament:

The Smithfield is an active, robust dog and they have well balanced, stable personalities. They are often described as being laid-back.

You won’t find any signs of shyness or aggression with these dogs and they are known to be gentle and calm. They are self confident and well adjusted and also hard working.

They are devoted and loving to their human family and are also intelligent. When they’ve been trained and socialized they make splendid family pets, wonderful with children, just loving to run and play. These are dogs you can rely on to be consistent in nature.

Children friendliness

Yes, they are great with kids.

Special talents

Hunting skunks and climbing trees.

Adaptability

Yes, but they need a lot of space.

Learning

Ability is high. They are very intelligent and trainable.

Those who have owned a Smithfield love them and say that once you’ve owned one, you’ll want another.

These easy going dogs have all the characteristics necessary to ensure a good pet, playmate and companion. They are devoted to their human family, and given the chance will become a very special 4-legged member of any family who appreciates the friendship a such a dog offers.

The kind of health issues that most large or giant dogs have to deal with are some of the same things that this breed dealt with.

• Hip and Elbow Dysplasia – Can cause arthritis and lameness.
• Blood Disorders
• Cancers -various
• Progressive Retinal Atrophy – can cause blindness.
• Bloat - Fatal
• Heat Stroke – Can be fatal. Watch her in the heat.

These dogs enjoy exceptional good health and can reach between 10 and 14 years of age.

You have to be careful with your pet however, because there are quite a few common dog illnesses that can plague your pet, and we look at a few -

Canine Distemper:

This is caused by a contagious virus. Infected dogs develop symptoms such as runny eyes, fever, coughing, vomiting and even seizures. Unfortunately this disease is often fatal. There is luckily a vaccine against it and it is highly recommended for your pet.

Canine parvovirus:

Also a very contagious disease which attacks the gastrointestinal system, causing fever, vomiting and diarrhea. It is often spread by contaminated stools and feeding utensils of dogs. Many dogs die from parvo but there is also a vaccine against it.

Heatstroke:

This is terrible for your pet and is a huge risk for dogs during Summer. Never leave your pet in a car unattended, especially on a hot day. Remember that stub-nosed dogs such as Boxers, Pugs, Bulldogs and Boston Terriers are more prone to respiratory problems and heat can be deadly for them.

Feeding the puppy

Feed a high quality dog food designed for large or giant puppies. Feed 3times a day 2.5 times for puppies and go easy on the treats

Feeding the adult

There is a definite tendency for these dogs to become obese. Don’t overfeed. Don’t free feed. Large breed high quality dog food should be fed 2 times a day and go easy on the treats. Watch his weight.

Points for Good Health

strength, stamina

Games and Exercises

The breed is definitely athletic and active. They love to chase and take long walks daily. They need a large yard but be careful as they can climb trees and your fence. They are great companions when backpacking and camping. If there are skunks in the area however watch out! These are hunting dogs despite their size and they would do very well in barn hunt and field trials.

Exercise:

The Smithfield has plenty of energy and loves nothing more than lots of games with the children. He will also look forward to a walk every day as well as other activities.

Grooming:

When it comes to grooming, you can save money by grooming your dog at home. Whether you have your pet’s hair cut or you leave it as is, get into the habit of brushing the fur at least twice a week. You can speak to your vet or groomer and get advice on what comb of brush to use on your Smithfield.

It you want to cut your pet’s hair, it is important to use the right equipment so you don't accidentally injure him. Certainly if you feel unsure about shaving your dog at home, leave this grooming aspect to the experts.

Have your pet’s nails trimmed.

Check your pet’s eyes. They must be clear and bright. Check inside his mouth for bad teeth. Check inside his ears to make sure they aren’t red with infection.

Diet:

Your Smithfield is relying on you to provide him with good food. For convenience, it is always a good idea to have a packet of the best dry kibble there is. Check out the label and make sure to buy one that has a good balance of vitamins and minerals.

Give him some tasty homemade food too. Remember to keep it plain and simple. Boiled chicken, brown rice or pasta and spinach, sweet potatoes and carrots are nutritious and tasty. This food can all be chopped up and small portions added to the dry kibble twice a week as a treat.

You’ll never have to worry about digestion problems with your dog. A little bit of raw meat can also go a long way to ensuring his skin stays healthy and free of skin infections. Ensure that he has a constant supply of fresh, cool water.