A canine theme this week ...
The modern Border Collie is recognised to be an extremely intelligent, athletic, and energetic breed of dog. They originated in Northumberland on the borders of England and Scotland, having been developed over centuries for herding sheep, a role in which they are now well-known.
John "Jack" Russell, known as "The Sporting Parson", was the vicar of Swimbridge and rector of Black Torrington in North Devon. He was an enthusiastic fox-hunter and dog breeder, and was the original breeder of the famous Jack Russell Terrier.
Originally bred as fighting dogs, the Staffordshire Bull Terrier, or "Staffie" has a mixed reputation. Many regard them with suspicion as aggressive dogs, but owners testify to the Staffie's loving temperament as a family pet.
The famous 'Temporary Home for Lost & Starving Dogs’ was established in 1860 by Ms. Mary Tealby and a committee of animal lovers, in Holloway, North London.
The little Skye Terrier has had mixed fortunes over the years. Ancestor of many terrier breeds, this plucky hunting dog became a favourite of queens and great ladies, but now is an uncommon sight even in Scotland from whence it originated.
The Welsh Springer dog breed is a member of the spaniel family. Thought to be comparable to the old Land Spaniel, they are also similar to the English Springer Spaniel. Historically they have been referred to as both the Welsh Spaniel and the Welsh Cocker Spaniel.
