Companion dog
Description and Purpose of Companion Dogs
– A companion dog is a pet that provides companionship to humans.
– It is not primarily a working dog but serves the purpose of emotional support.
– Companion dogs can help individuals with mental health disabilities cope with symptoms.
– Most dogs, including working dog breeds, can be companions.
– The American Kennel Club offers a Companion dog title for obedience competitions.
Breed Selection for Companion Dogs
– The Pomeranian breed evolved from a large sled-type dog and the toy Melitaie.
– Dogs chosen for traits that make them convenient pets are generally smaller breeds.
– Keeping pretty dogs solely for court decorations dates back to Chinese nobility.
– Examples of canines chosen for their pet qualities include the Pekingese and the Pug.
– Some decorative breeds like Lhasa Apsos and Yorkshire Terriers had additional jobs outside of companionship.
Competition Obedience Titles for Companion Dogs
– The Companion Dog (CD) title is a Novice obedience title in AKC competitions.
– To qualify, a team must enter the ring with 200 points and leave with at least 170 points.
– Three legs under different AKC judges are required to earn a CD title.
– Obedience levels include CD, CDX, UD, UDX, OTCH, and NOC.
– A pet dog is not considered a Companion Dog without participating in a competition.
Comparison between Companion Dogs and Toy Dogs
– Toy dogs and companion dogs have overlapping characteristics.
– Companion dogs are not limited by size, unlike toy dogs which are small.
– Chihuahuas are the smallest of all toy dog breeds.
– Havanese is an example of a companion dog.
– Pugs are known for their lucky wrinkles and monkey-like face.
Relationship between Companion Dogs and Pet Humanization
– Pet humanization is related to the concept of companion dogs.
– Companion dogs contribute to the humanization of pets.https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Companion_dog