Most hotels in Continental Europe and Scandinavia are pet-friendly, but this is not always the case. When you are searching for a pet-friendly hotel or B&B – take the time to read the fine print before booking a room. Keep in mind that a published pet policy may be lacking and you must first call the hostel or hotel for clarification.

Some hotels will specifically list out the types of pets that are welcome. Small B&Bs may even require that your pet is crated while you are not with your pet in the room.  Others may require a “pet deposit” upon check-in, to cover any damages if your pet makes a mess or chews up the curtains. Renting an apartment for holiday is becoming a very popular alternative to the standard hotel room and many of these are pet-friendly. 

How can I find a pet friendly room?

There are several ways to search for a pet-friendly hotel online. Some are more efficient and user-friendly than others. Here are our recommendations for a quick, easy search:

• Booking.com – On their home page, type in your destination, dates and how many guests. Click “search” and then look for the tabs on the left side of the page. Click on “Facility” and you can filter your search for ‘Pet Friendly’ places.
• Tripadvisor.com – Trip Advisor is not just for hotel and restaurant reviews anymore. They have recently added a filter to their hotel and rentals search engine, allowing pet owners to select pet-friendly options easily.
• Google Hotel Finder – Don’t just rely on your basic Google search for finding the best pet-friendly lodging. Google has developed a specific search engine just for this need. Put in your destination, dates and then search for the best prices. Google then allows you to filter for pets under “Amenities.” 
• Airbnb.com – AirBnB has become a go-to for people travelling on the cheap or for those seeking luxurious apartment rentals. Sometimes you can book a night on someone’s couch and save Fluffy a spot too!  When you find a place within your budget, click on “Amenities” and it will tell you if the room is pet-friendly or not. While this method of searching isn’t as efficient as the others on this list, you can still find some great deals very easily.

If you use another website, you may not be able to easily search for pet friendly rooms. Often you have to find a place to stay within your budget and then find out if the place is pet friendly. If you book through a major hotel such as Radisson Blu, Hilton, Choice Hotels, Ibis, etc., their website should provide all details of pet policies before you book.  

Other Pet-Friendly Accommodation Search Engines:

For USA/Canada:
Petswelcome.com

Europe:
Bringfido.com 

Your journey throughout Europe may involve one or many methods of transport. Take a moment to familiarize yourself with each unique travel situation and how it may affect your pet. Of course, before you set off, make sure that you have all legal documents in order and reference our Check List. Never hesitate to contact the transport company for specific pet policies. 

Air Travel

With the emergence of many ‘budget airlines’ throughout Europe, more people are able to travel and sometimes with their pets. Pet travel policies vary widely between airlines, so be sure to check with the airline before you book a ticket. Cats and small dogs often can travel within the cabin under your seat while larger dogs must travel in the cargo hold. If you need to travel with your Service or Guide Dog, let the airline know at booking, as these animals are allowed to travel in the cabin.

During certain times of the year your pet may not be allowed to travel in the cargo hold. The cargo hold is temperature and pressure controlled while in flight, but it is not while the aircraft is on the ground. This may mean that your pet is exposed to extreme temperatures. Some airlines, such as United, have a special pet service which holds the animals in a climate-controlled vehicle by the aircraft and loads them right before the doors are closed. This type of service prevents exposure to extreme temperatures once your pet is checked in, helping to prevent travel-related illness. However, this service does not help when there are gate delays after landing. The most common health problems encountered while flying include hyperthermia, hypothermia and dehydration. With proper preparation, these complications are rare. 

Some airlines prohibit transport of certain breeds for the sake of the animal’s health. Brachycephalic breeds (those with “smushed faces” or very short noses, such as Persian cats, Pugs and Boston Terriers) are more likely to suffer from travel complications due to their unique anatomy. These dogs are more likely to suffer from hyperthermia or airway compromise. They also cannot cool themselves adequately when exposed to high temperatures or even when they are very excited. It is best for these breeds to travel on the ground or in the aircraft cabin.

Certain breeds may be banned by airlines or must travel in a special, extra-secure type of metal crate. These include fighting breeds and bulldogs such as Pit Bulls, Mastiffs and Staffordshire Bull Terriers. This is not necessarily because the airline views these breeds as dangerous to people; it is because these dogs have especially strong jaws. There have been cases in the past where Pit Bull-type dogs have chewed their way through a plastic crate and damaged the interior of the aircraft cargo hold while in flight!  

To minimize stress while flying:

• Pick a direct flight to your destination. Lay-overs increase the amount of time your pet is stressed and can contribute to dehydration.
• Travel during the coolest time of the day if possible.
• Get your pet used to the travel crate in advance. Most crate-trained dogs are very bonded with their ‘den’ and this may make travel less stressful for them. 
• If your dog is prone to chewing on fabric, don’t place a blanket in the crate. While soft padding may seem comfortable, some dogs decide to ingest it when they are bored – potentially leading to an intestinal obstruction.
• The day before travel, freeze water in a container for your pet. Before setting off for the airport, attach this container to the interior of the crate or the door. The ice will slowly melt and help prevent spillage. Many dogs enjoy licking ice!
• For other information, please see our Quick Travel Tips pages for Dogs and Cats.

Travel by Train

Train travel can still be stressful for your pet. The new sights, sounds and even the movement of the train itself can be unnerving. If it is possible, take your pet on a few short train trips before the big day. This can help him or her get used to the process. 

Most trains throughout Europe are “pet friendly” but contact the rail company for pet policy details before booking.

While travelling by train, remember:

• Keep your pet secure. Cats and small dogs should travel within a carrier at all times. Larger dogs should be kept on a short leash and on a secure collar or harness.
• A water source should be accessible to your pet at all times. Carry a water bottle with you, as some trains may not offer opportunities to purchase water while aboard or the water in the bathrooms is non-potable. 
• Travel during the coolest part of the day. In some countries, trains are not climate controlled. If there is a delay, the cabins can become quite hot – exposing your pet to additional stress.
• The movement of the train can sometimes cause motion sickness. For helpful tips about prevention of motion sickness in pets, click here.
• For more tips on what you should take with you on the train, see our Quick Travel Tips pages for Dogs and Cats and Check List.

Ferry or Ship Travel

Travelling by water is a fun experience but may involve some unique preparation. Some ferry operators will allow your pet to accompany you on the decks, but others require the pet to remain in a crate below decks. Most pet policies will not allow the pet to stay in your car during the crossing. If you are travelling on an overnight ferry, be sure that your pet is allowed to stay in the cabin with you while you sleep. 

Even if the seas are not high that day, even gentle rocking of the ship can cause motion sickness in dogs and people. For more information about how to prevent motion sickness, please click here. 

If you take a ferry on your journey, remember:

• Travel during the coolest part of the day. Sometimes you must wait quite a while in the car hold before disembarking.
• Keep your pet hydrated. If your pet must stay crated and in a holding area below decks, ask about this process before you go. Some areas of the ship are ‘off-limits’ while at sea and this will prevent you from checking on your pet. If your pet must be alone and crated for the crossing, attach a frozen bowl of water to the inside of the crate before setting out. This will allow your pet to have water for a longer period of time during travel.
• Keep your pet secure. Cats and small dogs should travel within a carrier at all times. Larger dogs should be kept on a short leash fixed to a secure collar or harness.
• For more tips on what you should take with you on the ferry, see our Quick Travel Tips pages for Dogs and Cats and Check List.

Travel by car

Car travel is very popular and may offer you the most amount of flexibility. Car travel can be as stressful as other forms of transport, so it is important to prepare your pet as best you can. It is very easy for pets to become overheated in a car, especially if your automobile does not have air conditioning. It is safest for pets to travel in a secure container while in a car. This includes carriers or crates for dogs and cats. If using a crate for your large dog is not possible, be sure to secure him or her with a “doggie seat belt” in the back seat of the car. The front seat is not safe for pets even with a seat belt, as air bag deployment can severely injure or kill pets. If your pet must ride in the front seat, be sure to disengage the passenger air bag. 

On long journeys you should:

• Always have plenty of water on hand. Offer your pet water every couple of hours.
• Feed your pet at least two hours before travel. This will help prevent motion sickness. If you must start your journey before mealtimes, plan a light meal while you are on your way.
• Regular toilet breaks are necessary for all members of the family. If you have a cat, carry a small plastic litter tray with you.  A small amount of cat litter can be carried in a zip-top bag until it is time for a toilet break. 
• The litter tray can be easily put in the floorboard of your car. During a travel break, be sure the windows and doors are securely closed and let your cat out of the carrier. He or she may be thankful for a toilet break and a chance to ‘stretch legs’!  The harness will help you to put your cat back into the carrier after the stop.
• Don’t be discouraged if your cat does not use the litter tray. It is best for his or her health to allow for the opportunity to toilet. Long periods of “holding it” may predispose pets to bladder infections.
• For more tips on what you should take with you in the car, see our Quick Travel Tips pages for Dogs and Cats and Check List.

Registered Office

EUROPETNET
Rue Riessonsart, 91
BE-4877 Olne
Belgium

Administrative Head Office

EUROPETNET
Rue de la Presse – 4 -Drukperrstraat
BE-1000 Bruxelles
Belgium

Email

info@europetnet.org
president@europetnet.org
secretariat@europetnet.org

Board

President:
Michel Schoffeniels
president@europetnet.org

Chief executive secretary:
Finbarr Heslin
secretariat@europetnet.org

Chief financial officer:
Denise Delley
treasurer@europetnet.org

Chief technology officer:
Gubrand Vatn
gv@dyreidentitet.no

Chief information officer:
Rémi Gellé
remi.gelle@i-cad.fr

Auditor

Hans Van Herpen
Bartlomiej Szostakowski

If you are a database manager you can register a membership at Europetnet (EPN). Check if your DB comply with our Statutes and our Set of rules below. Then send us an email and we will get back to you with how to proceed.

Mandatory member-obligations

Condition to become and to remain an EPN-member: 

A. To be an organisation that registers data about companion animals and owners 

B. To register at least 2’000 animals per year

C. To register all companion animals identified with ISO transponders  confroming to ISO 11784/11785 and in accordance with national rules  

D. To promote the use of only ISO transponders according to all relevant ISO standards including 11784/11785 and other relevant Registration Authority rules.

E. To send data at intervals not exceeding seven days complying with the technical specifications laid down in the appropriate EPN protocol

F. To provide 24h access for authorities (vets/dog wardens/police/implanters) for the purpose of retrieving data to reunite a lost pet with keeper

G. To refrain from any competitive activity regarding EPN

H. To be represented at the GA or to give a proxy to a member. Members not present or not represented without apologize have to pay a fine fixed by the Board 

I. To display on the DB website in a prominent location the approved EPN membership badge

J. To assure that the EPN ethos is promoted and applied on national level 

K. To transfer existing computerised data to another Europetnet member or a local or national governmental or government-approved Database, in cases where there is an intention to wind up the Database or cease to exist

L. To ensure that an English language version of the information part and the search part of the homepage of the member database is available.

 

Desirable standards for EPN members and associated database/organisations 

1. To assure that the EPN ethos is promoted and applied on national level 

2. To be able to track the details of the implanter or data certifier (either by unique code or name and contact details) when there is no conflict with a legal basis on a national level 

3. To be able to make traceability of transponders in the country 

4. To only accept transponders implanted by a veterinarian or by a trained implanter according to national regulation

5. To collaborate and exchange information with databanks of the country 

6. To use a system that has the capability to trace who has microchiped every single animal 

7. To make every effort to transfer computerized data to another Europetnet member in case of bankruptcy 

8. To assure that information part on the homepage of the member and associated database/organisation is available in English 20140325 BO 

Registered office 

Article 1:

The association shall be called: “EUROPEAN PET NETWORK”, abbreviated to EUROPETNET or EPN

Article 2:

Its registered office is established in 4877 OLNE. It may be transferred to any other place in this town by way of a decision by the General Assembly. It is currently established at 4877 OLNE, RIESSONSART, 91, administrative district of Liège. Any change in the registered office should be published in the Belgian Monitor during the same month as the date when it takes place.

Object

Article 3:

The association shall be politically and philosophically neutral.

The object of the association shall be:

• to promote the mandatory and proper identification and madatory and proper registration of companion animals in Europe 
• to provide a central european reference registry of data pertaining to microchipped pets where anybody can search to see on which database the data of an individual transponder is stored
• to promote and organise and identify companion animals in Europe. 
• to create, develop and organise a PAN-European communications system between databases, to identify companion animals and to participate in any activity which is likely to achieve this objective. 
• to collaborate with similar bodies or associations in Europe and throughout the world within the framework of its object.

It may carry out any activities which directly or indirectly relate to its object.

In particular, it may lend its support and become involved in any activity that is similar to its object. 

Members and associates

Admission

Article 4:

The number of members of the association shall not be limited.

The minimum shall be 3.

The first members shall be the undersigned founders.

Article 5:

Any association or person who is pursuing a similar goal or one which is connected to that of the association or which might improve the necessary means of carrying out the activities for pursuing this objective may become a member.

Persons who want to help the association to achieve its goal may, if they fulfil the conditions defined in the association’s regulations (Set of Rules), which have been adopted by the constituent General Assembly, put themselves forward as a candidate in writing to the board of directors, which shall then pass this on to the General Assembly, once the “Protocol of member admission” enforced.

Admissions of new members shall be decided upon by the General Assembly by a two-thirds’ majority.  

In addition the Board of Directors could admit associated database/organization by a two-third majority. These associations would be those who did not comply with the conditions determined by the Set of Rules but whose activities corresponded to the object of the association. For their admission, the “Protocol for EPN associated database/organisation” must be followed.

Such associates :

• they can send their data, and/or a simple online research is also possible
• they can use the special EPN logo for associated database/organisation
• they would be convened to the General Assembly
• they would not be entitled to summon a General Assembly
• they would have no voting rights 
• they would have no right to examine the accounts 
• they would have no right to examine the accounts 
• their advisory capacity is not compulsory 
• they would have no powers with regard to the appointment of members of the Board of Directors 
• they could not be members of the Board of Directors 
• they have to pay the fees fixed by the GA and the Board
• their entrance fee is fixed individually by the Board 
• if they desire to become a member of EPN, they will have the same conditions as every other member applicant

Associates must display on the DB website in a prominent location the approved EPN membership badge.

Resignation, exclusion, suspension

Article 6:

Any member shall be free to withdraw from the association by submitting his resignation to the board

Any member and associated database/organisation shall be free to withdraw from the association by submitting his resignation to the board of directors in written form.

The exclusion of a member may be decided by the General Assembly by way of a majority of two-thirds of the votes if this member loses the necessary qualifications for membership as provided by article 5 or through any action or attitude which may be detrimental to the association’s object.

The “Protocol for EPN member exclusion” must be followed.

The exclusion of an associated database/organisation may be decided by the board of directors. The “Protocol for EPN associated database/organisation” must be followed. 

Any member/associated that does not pay the contributions which are being requested from him within the fixed time-limit (terms and conditions on the invoice) shall be deemed to be resigning.

Any member that does not adhere to the data transfer protocol of the association shall be deemed to be resigning.

Article 7:

In the event of the resignation, exclusion or suspension of a member/associated, the admission fees as well as the contributions received shall remain with the association.

The resigning suspended or excluded member/associated, as well as the heirs or beneficiaries of a deceased member/associated, shall not be entitled to the association’s funds.

They may neither claim nor request a financial statement or a rendering of the accounts, or any appendices or an inventory.

Contributions

Article 8:

There are two classes of fees; 

Once-Off Admission fees payable by members after the General Assembly approves their membership and by Associates after the Board approves their Associateship; and an Annual contribution payable by both Members and Associates.

The fees are: admission fee and annual contribution.

The admission fee may not be more than 1.000 Euros.

The annual contributions may not be more than 5.000 Euros.

The member admission fees and the member annual contributions shall be established by the ordinary General Assembly which shall approve the financial statement and the budget.

The board of directors shall establish the associate admission fee. The Board, under supervision of the General Assembly, shall establish the annual contribution.

General  Assembly

Article 9:

The General Assembly shall consist of all the members who have fulfilled their obligations with regard to the association.

Article 10:

The General Assembly shall be the sovereign power.

The association shall possess powers which are expressly recognised as being its powers by the law or by the present articles and memorandum of association.

In particular, the following shall be reserved for its competence:

• amendments to the association’s articles and memorandum of association 
• the appointment and dismissal of the directors 
• the approval of budgets and financial statements 
• the voluntary dissolution of the association 
• the admission of members
• the exclusion of members 
• the re-establishment of the association’s regulations (set of rules)
• discharge granted to administrators and commissioners 
• all cases where the statutes so require

Article 11:

At least one General Assembly should be held each year. 

The association may call an extraordinary General Assembly at any time by way of a decision by the board of directors or at the request of at least a fifth of its members.

Article 12:

The General Assembly shall be convened by the board of directors by way of a registered letter or any other equivalent means at least one month prior to the meeting.

The agenda shall be mentioned on the notice of the meeting.

Article 13:

Each member shall have the right to attend the meeting. He may be represented by a proxy. Each member may only be the holder of one proxy. 

All the members shall have the right to an equal vote, whereby each one shall have one vote.

Article 14:

A meeting should be called by the board of directors where a fifth of the members have requested this. Similarly, any proposal signed by a twentieth of the members should be entered on the agenda.

Article 15:

The General Assembly shall be presided over by the President of the Association . 

Article 16:

The resolutions shall be passed by way of a simple majority of the votes presented or represented, apart from in cases where it is decided otherwise by the law or by the present articles and memorandum of association. 

In the case of a tie vote, that of the Chairman or of the director who is replacing him shall be the casting vote.

Article 17:

The members may receive a copy of all of the minutes of the meetings of the ordinary or extraordinary General Assembly. 

Third parties may request extracts concerning the points which concern them. The motion should be proposed in writing to the board of directors. The costs which result from this shall be exclusively borne by those who are proposing the motion. 

Any amendment to the articles and memorandum of association should be published in the Belgian Monitor.

Administration and management

Administration

Article 18:

The association shall be administered by a board consisting of at least 4 members, which has been appointed from among the members by the General Assembly for a term of five years, and may be dismissed by it at any time. 

The mandate shall be gratuitous. 

However, the General Assembly will be able to grant the directors fixed or variable remuneration. 

It is absolutely necessary for the directors to be natural persons.

Article 19:

The directors may be re-elected.

In the event of a vacancy during the course of a mandate, a temporary director may be appointed by the board of directors. 

In this case, he shall complete the mandate of the director whom he is replacing until the next General Assembly.

Article 20:

The board shall appoint the President, the Vice-President, the Secretary, the Chief Financial Officer and Chief Technical Officer from among its members.

In the event of the President being unable to fulfil his duties, these shall be assumed by the Vice-President, in the first instance, or by the longest serving director present.

Article 21:

The board shall meet upon being called to a meeting by the President of the Association and/or the secretary. It may only decide if the majority of its members are present. These decisions shall be taken by way of a simple majority of the votes. 

In the event of the votes being equal, the President of the Association’s vote or that of his replacement shall be the casting vote. 

The President of the Association may delegate his powers to one of the members at the meeting or even to a third party with its consent, for which he shall be liable.

Article 22:

The board of directors shall have the most extensive powers to administer and manage the association. 

Only actions reserved by the law or by the present articles and memorandum of association shall be excluded from the competence of the General Assembly. The association shall be legitimately bound by the joint signature of three directors.

Article 23:

The board of directors shall manage the association’s affairs and shall represent it in all its actions in civilian life and in its relationships with the authorities and third parties.

Management 

Article 24:

The expenses and commitments undertaken and/or incurred by the board of directors may never exceed the total amount of the sums possessed in cash by the association, except with the unanimous consent of the members of the association. 

The board of directors shall not be entitled to commit the association to any credit with a third party nor to discount, pledge, mortgage one of its assets in any manner whatsoever, except with the unanimous consent of the members of the association .

Article 25:

The association’s financial year shall commence on 1 January and shall end on 31 December.

Exceptionally, the first financial year shall commence on the date of approval of the articles and memorandum of association by the constituent meeting so that it ends on 31 December of this year.

Article 26:

The status of the association’s receipts and expenses should be checked by two auditors. The General Assembly can appoint four persons for this task for a duration of three years. 

The members of the board of directors shall not be eligible for this post. 

The outgoing auditors may be re-elected.

Various provisions 

Article 27:

The present articles and memorandum of association may be amended.

Article 28:

Dissolution: 

The General Assembly may dissolve the association if at least two-thirds of its members are present. The dissolution shall only be accepted if it is voted on by four-fifths of the members present

After any possible liabilities have been discharged, its capital shall be allocated according to the law’s wishes.

Article 29:

All situations not covered by these statutes shall be resolved in compliance with the law in force on Non-Profit Making Associations.

 

What is a microchip?

A microchip is a tiny transponder (about the size of a grain of rice) that is implanted under the skin in pets. The chip is usually implanted between the shoulder blades. 

 

What sort of information does the microchip hold?

Microchips permanently identify the animal with a unique number. The microchip itself contains no other information.

 

How can a microchip number be used to track my pet?

If your pet is found, veterinarians and pet rescue groups will scan your pet for a chip. There are a certain number of microchip companies in each region of the world – local companies are then contacted and the number is referenced.

Once there is a match with a microchip company, the company will contact the pet’s owner.

 

What information do I need to provide the microchip company?

When your pet is microchipped, you must register your pet with the microchip’s manufacturer. Your name, home address, phone numbers and email address are submitted. Your pet’s name, breed, sex, special markings or colouring will be registered as well. Some companies recommend submission of a photograph.

It is very important to update this information if you move or if your phone number changes.

 

How much does a microchip cost?

Microchipping costs vary depending on where you live. Some companies will also charge a fee for storing your contact information. This fee may be paid one time or as a “yearly membership.”  Contact your local veterinarian for more details.

 

Is microchipping painful for my pet?

Microchipping is a quick and relatively painless procedure. Your veterinarian may inject a little anesthetic into the skin before implanting the microchip.  The chip is implanted using a syringe applicator, much like vaccination. The discomfort involved is similar to that of vaccination. Microchips are often implanted at the same time as the spay or neuter surgery – while the pet is under anesthesia.

 

Are there different types of microchips?

Yes. The types are called ISO and non-ISO.  ISO chips are used widely in Europe but some pets may receive non-ISO chips in North America. 

 

My pet has a non-ISO chip, which was implanted in Canada. Is this a problem?

Microchip scanners nowadays are “universal” and will read all types of chips. Non-ISO chips are only a problem if the pet is to be exported from North America. 

 

We are moving to Germany. Does my pet have the right microchip?

All pets in Europe receive ISO microchips, which are acceptable for movement within the European Union. Your veterinarian will record the microchip number on your pet passport.

However, if you are bringing your pet from North America, be sure that an ISO microchip is placed. Your veterinarian can scan your pet to be sure that the microchip is correct for import to Europe.  If your pet has a non-ISO chip, it is not a problem to implant a second ISO chip.

 

My pet is lost and has a microchip. What can I do?

1. Contact your microchip company and report your pet as lost or stolen. Many microchip companies will distribute a “lost pet” report to local animal control, rescue groups and veterinarians.
2. Directly contact your local animal control, veterinarians and pet shelters with your pet’s information, recent photograph, and microchip number.
3. If you think your pet has been stolen, contact your local police.

 

I don’t know what company manufactured my pet’s chip. How can I find out?

Type your pet’s microchip number into Europetnet’s ID search engine. It will inform you of the chip company’s name and contact information.

 

Alano Español, sometimes called the Spanish Bulldog in English, is a large breed of dog of the molosser dog type originating in Spain. The breed is best known for its former use during Spanish bullfights.

The American Foxhound is a dog breed that is a cousin of the English Foxhound. They are scent hounds, bred to hunt foxes by scent.

History

In 1650, Robert Brooke sailed to Crown Colony in North America with his pack of hunting dogs, which were the root of several strains of American Hounds. These dogs remained in the Brooke family for nearly 300 years. George Washington received French Foxhounds, Grand Bleu de Gascogne, (which look much like an American Bluetick Coonhound) as a gift from the Marquis de Gilbert du Motier, marquis de Lafayette. Many of the dogs Washington kept were descended from Brooke’s, and when crossed with the French hounds, helped to create the present day American Foxhound. The American Foxhound is known to originate from the states of Maryland and Virginia, and is the state dog of Virginia. Though there has long been a rumor that the new breed was originally used for hunting Indigenous peoples of the Americas, this is not true. The breed was developed by landed gentry purely for the sport of hunting foxes. With the importation (or migration) of the red fox, Irish Foxhounds were added to the lines, to increase speed and stamina in the dog, qualities still prevalent in today’s dogs. One quality that the American Foxhound is famous for is its musical howl that can be heard for miles. This is actually one reason that this breed does not do well in city settings. The breed was first recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1886. Today, there are many different strains of American Foxhound, including Walker, Calhoun, Goodman, Trigg Hound, July and Penn-Marydel. Though each strain looks quite different, they are all recognized as members of the same breed. Most show hounds are Walkers, many of the pack hounds (used with hunting foxes on horseback) are Penn-Marydel and hunters use a variety of strains to suit their hunting style and quarry.

Health

This breed is not generally a breed that carries genetic disorders. However they can easily become overweight if being overfed. A minor health risk in American Foxhounds is thrombocytopathy or platelet disease. This comes from poorly functioning blood platelets and can result in excessive bleeding from minor bumps or cuts. The treatment is usually based on the severity of the disease. Owners will often have their American Foxhounds undergo blood tests so that the condition can be caught early on. While dysplasia was largely unknown in Foxhounds, it is beginning to crop up occasionally, along with some eye issues. It is not typical or customary for Foxhound breeders to screen for any hereditary disorders at this time. The breed’s lifespan is generally 10–12 years. The American Foxhound is an energetic breed. According to some veterinarians and trainers, it needs plenty of exercise, for example, a fairly long walk followed by a game of fetch (game).

The American Hairless Terrier is a breed of dog that was formerly considered a variant of Rat Terrier. As of January 1, 2004, the United Kennel Club deemed the AHT a separate terrier dog breed. An intelligent, social and energetic working breed, the American Hairless Terrier is often listed as a potential good breed choice for allergy sufferers.

History

The American Hairless Terrier’s American ancestry begins with the mixed breed terriers called Feists brought from Europe to the North America as early as the 18th century. In the late 1800s the Rat Terrier breed was developed from the Feist by the addition of
Beagle, Italian Greyhound and Miniature Pinscher bloodlines.The distinct American Hairless Terrier breed began in 1972 when one hairless puppy named Josephine appeared in a Rat Terrier litter in the state of Louisiana, United States. Owners Edwin and Willie Scott liked the dog’s look and temperament, and upon maturity bred her hoping to reproduce the hairless quality. They were eventually successful; a litter produced in 1981 provided the foundation stock of the breed.

Breed recognition

In 1998, the breed gained recognition as the American Hairless Terrier (AHT) by the American Rare Breeds Association and the National Rat Terrier Club. Canada was the first country outside the US to gain recognition, by Canadian Rarities in 1999. In 1999, the breed was recognized as Rat Terrier, Hairless Variety by the United Kennel Club.In the US, the American Hairless Terrier Association is the provisional breed club. Other national breed clubs around the world include the and the Japanese Hairless American Terrier Club.On January 1, 2004, the United Kennel Club (UKC) recognized the AHT as a distinct breed.The American Kennel Club (AKC) also includes the AHT within its Foundation Stock Series and allows them to participate in AKC Performance events and in Open shows.Despite its smaller size, the AHT is not a toy breed. Rather, like its Rat Terrier cousin, the AHT is a working breed.

The American Pit Bull Terrier (APBT) is a medium-sized, solidly built, short haired dog whose early ancestors came from England and Ireland. It is a member of the molosser breed group. The American Staffordshire Terrier and The American Pit Bull Terrier (APBT) by breed are from the same lineage; Staffordshires was the name given by American Kennel Club (AKC), and American Pit Bull Terriers by United Kennel Club (UKC). The real difference between the two breeds is 6–8″ in height and 25–35 lb in weight; the American Staffordshire Terrier being the larger of the two.The dog was bred first to bait bulls and bears. When bear-baiting and bull-baiting were deemed inhumane, rat-baiting and dog fighting became more popular. The APBT Breed was used in both sports, and its prevalence in being put in pits with rats or other dogs led to “pit” being added to its name.The American Pit Bull is medium-sized, and has a short coat and smooth well-defined muscle structure. Its eyes are round to almond shaped, and its ears are small to medium in length and can be natural or cropped. The tail is slightly thick and tapers to a point. The coat is glossy, smooth, short, and stiff to the touch. The accepted coat color can vary widely, but, both the AKC and UKC do not recognize merle coloring.Twelve countries in Europe, as well as Australia, Canada, Ecuador, Malaysia, New Zealand, Puerto Rico, Singapore, and Venezuela have enacted some form of breed-specific legislation on pit bull-type dogs, including American Pit Bull Terriers, ranging from outright bans to restrictions and conditions on ownership. The state of New South Wales in Australia places restrictions on the breed, including mandatory sterilization. The breed is banned in the United Kingdom, the Canadian province of Ontario, and few counties and cities in the United States.