A mop dog is a unique and very popular breed. Of particular interest is the wool of these animals, resembling dreadlocks.
Description
The mop dog (breed commander) is very calm, good-natured, which becomes clear at first sight in the eyes of the pet. The animal adores the whole world, provided that in it it does not feel danger. The color is always light: from cream to snow-white. Eyes are brownish, nose is black. The tail and ears are hanging, under the thick coat they are almost imperceptible. The height of the dogs at the withers is about 70-80 cm. Weight depends on gender, feeding regimen and lifestyle, but on average ranges from 50 to 60 kg. The average life span is 9-13 years.
Character
In addition to the original appearance, the mop dog is also surprised by its character: a mixture of courage and kindness, fidelity and obedience with determination and independence. The animal does not have a tendency to dominate: it is calm, friendly, easily trained.
The stubbornness of the breed is not inherent, but it performs its duties independently, without the need for reminders and guidance. Commanders are excellent guards: they prevent strangers from approaching the house. If necessary, perfectly protect the family.
When danger occurs, the mop dog becomes very active, instantly orientates, focusing on protecting the owner and members of his family. The commander’s jaws are incredibly powerful, so the enemy caught in the “trap” will not be able to escape.
Characteristic
A dog that looks like a mop with its hair can be kept in a private house or apartment, because it quickly focuses on changes in ambient temperature. Thick wool saves from hypothermia, but also protects from overheating. The breed is suitable even for inexperienced dog lovers, since it is easy to raise it. The Commander is a wonderful companion for children: their appearance pleases an energetic dog, causing a desire to begin a long, fun fuss faster.
Having got a puppy, it is necessary to immediately identify the leader, then the grown-up dog will not try to intercept the "reins" and become a leader. Although training the commander is easy, you need to start it as early as possible so that the pet learns the rules of behavior in the house and its responsibilities.
A mop dog is highly active, so you need to walk with it not only for a long time, but also productively: running, games, training, swimming. The commander prefers to run without restrictions, so you should find a place where he will not interfere and frighten passers-by with his appearance.
Despite the abundance of hair, it is very easy to take care of the dog, because the “tassels” do not need to be combed. Wash the commander as necessary. There is almost no smell, even from wet hair, molting goes unnoticed. It is necessary to care for the teeth of the commander, brush your ears and eyes, cut your nails, adhere to the diet recommended by the specialist.
Price
A mop dog is quite popular, many representatives of the breed participate in exhibitions and various shows. The cost of a puppy depends not only on its potential, but also on the class of parents, their titles, and working qualities.
The average cost of a pet aged 2-3 months:
- Show class - about 1600 dollars.
- Brid-class costs $ 900-1,200.
- The pet class does not exceed 600 dollars.
It is necessary to choose a puppy carefully, in consultation with experienced breeders.
Maintenance and care
A mop dog, the photo of which many are perplexed by, is very easy to care for. In addition to the wool, which has already been mentioned, care must be taken to equip a place of sufficient size.
It is curious that the hair of the commanders takes its usual form only by 24 months. The length of the "dreadlocks" throughout the body is different, in places it reaches 70 cm.
When bathing, it is necessary to wash off the shampoo very carefully so that it does not remain on the “ropes” of the wool. If this is not done, the hairs can become brittle and the structure is broken. Depriving the coat will disrupt the dog’s thermoregulation, which can make her seriously ill.
Typical diseases
A dog that looks like a mop, whose photo can be found in any catalog of popular breeds, has pretty good health. From the ancestors - herding dogs - the commander inherited increased stamina, immunity to heat and cold. No breed diseases were detected in these animals.
Various parasites often enter the body of the commander. It is easiest to get rid of them with the help of pharmacy antihistamines. These drugs can be used not only for treatment, but also for the prevention of helminths.
Sometimes mop dogs have entropy. If the commander’s eyes often turn red, watery, inflamed, you need to contact the veterinarian - you may have to do the operation.
No matter how good the pet’s health, it is necessary to take care of it, to follow various processes that can lead to trouble - only careful and proper care will allow the dog to remain cheerful and active for many years.
Feeding
To maintain such a large body requires a competent feeding regimen. You can stop both on dry feeds and on home-made food.
The choice of option depends on the capabilities and desires of the owner, but it is important to know that you can not mix these types of food. If dry food is chosen, it should not be fed with cereals, and vice versa. This approach minimizes the risk of digestive problems.
An adult dog should be fed once a day at the same time. After eating, she should rest. On the day the order of a kilogram of food is enough for the commander - this is a very economical pet. When feeding dry food, it is very important to ensure that the dog can always drink. It is better to purchase food of good, good grades, consisting of natural ingredients.
When choosing homemade food, you should focus on cereals with lean meats, fruits, and vegetables. Dairy products should be minimized, occasionally you can give fresh home-made cottage cheese. Sweets, bones, spicy / spicy / salty foods are excluded. Vitamin complexes should be added to food to strengthen the body.
A dog that is properly looked after, well fed and bred in good faith, will be happy and happy by itself, and will also give joy and good mood to others.