Meet the Borzoi

Borzoi

The Borzoi, better known as the Russian Wolfhound prior to 1936, is a gaze hound that is noted for its speed, courage, agility and the ability to outrun and then hold its prey. They boast a very calm temperament that has traditionally made them as much at home in the house as in the field. Borzoi have been bred by the Russian aristocracy for hundreds of years and can be traced back to the Mongol rulers including Genghis Khan in the 13th century. Their use in hunting as a sport grew to national importance by the mid-eighteen hundreds. These dogs were bred on a such a grand scale that their owners would sometimes, to give a festive appearance to these grand hunts, use a hundred dogs, often colored to match his horses and with bridle and leashes all coordinated. The dogs were taken to an area where there were known wolves. They would then chase and hold the wolf with the dogs in a circle. When the hunters arrived, they would grab and bind the wolf which was not killed, but rather taken to another area and released far from the area where they could cause damage to farms. Tolstoy described this in War and Peace. They got a foothold in America at the beginning of the 20th century and have continued to have a faithful following.

If you'd like to knit the Borzoi design, you may order the pattern by going to http://www.kanineknits.com/kanine_knits_knitting_patterns.htm

Meet the Newfoundland

Newfoundland

Though there is not an exact ancestor for the Newfoundland but all agree that he did come from its namesake through the St Johns dog. It doesn't really matter where the Newf is from but only that he is ideally suited for the work he has chosen to do down through the years. That work would be water rescue and they are very, very good at it. They rescue boats, oars, people in fact anything that is lost overboard, the Newf will happily go and get. This often gets translated in the modern day version of the breed who will retrieve swimmers and bring them to shore even if they don't want it. This is a very large dog whose size and strength made this work relatively easy. He has a very gentle temperament, a thick double coat that can come in black, bronze, and white with black markings better known as Landseer. This name came from the famous English artist who often painted the dogs. A number of famous people have loved these dogs including J.M.Barrie who placed the dog in his famous story Peter Pan in the character of the children's nursemaid, Nana and the poet Lord Byron whose elegy to his Newfoundland "Boatswain" written in 1808, remains today in Newstead Abbey in England. The Newfoundland is as at home on land and water. On land, his talent pulling carts and carrying packs make them their owner's helping hand. The Newfoundland makes an excellent pet for a family with owners that can deal with a dog that weighs as much as an adult man. Luckily their temperament is gentle and they will be excellent companions for children.

If you would like to knit this Newfoundland design, you may order it by going to http://www.kanineknits.com/kanine_knits_knitting_patterns.htm

Meet the Miniature Schnauzer

Miniature Schnauzer

The Schnauzer dates back possibly to the 15th century in Germany but the Miniature Schnauzer was recognized as a distinct breed in exhibition in 1899. While the breed resembles other terriers, it has a naturally happy temperament that may be influenced by the fact that they were developed by crossing the Standard Schnauzer with the Affenpinscher and possibly the Poodle. In any case, the youngest variety of Schnauzer behind the Giant and Standard, was immediately taken up into the show world due to its dapper appearance. This has also led to it being one of the most popular breeds since it was first registered. In order to hold their distinctive appearance, the breed's salt and pepper coat must be stripped and not trimmed. Though their ancestors worked as everything from herders to guard dogs, the Miniature is primarily a companion dog. His small size, about 14" and devotion to his family along with good health means that the Miniature Schnauzer is an excellent choice when choosing a new canine family member.

If you would like to knit the charted design above, you may order it from http://www.kanineknits.com/kanine_knits_knitting_patterns.htm

Meet the Chow Chow

Chow Chow

We don't know how old the Chinese Chow Chow is but it appears in a bas-relief dating back to the Han dynasty, about 150 B.C. This means that this Chinese hunting breed is more than 2000 years old and might be older. The dogs behind the breed are the old Mastiff of Tibet and the Samoyed though experts do not all agree. During the T'ang dynasty, the 7th century emperor built the world's largest kennel which is reputed to house 2500 pairs of Chow like "hounds" to be used by his 10,000 huntsmen. The origin of the Chow is the far north, though it later became very popular in the Canton district in southern China. Its name is not from the Chinese but probably from the pidgin-English name given to items imported from China. They arrived in England in the late 18th century and since 1901 they were firmly settled in the U.S. The Chow is in the non-sporting group and with good training they make excellent pets.

If you wish to knit the Chow Chow design, you may order the pattern by going to http://www.kanineknits.com/kanine_knits_knitting_patterns.htm

Meet the Labrador Retriever

Labrador Retrievers

The Labrador Retriever isn't from Labrador but rather from Newfoundland. Plus, the dog we know today was really developed in England. This smaller water dog, descended from the St. John dog, was brought to England when it showed a remarkable talent for retrieving. The Earl of Malmesbury, in the early 19th century, imported the dogs and in a letter he wrote in 1887, he said, "We always call my Labrador dogs, and I have kept the breed as pure as I could from the first I had from Poole, at that time carrying on a brisk trade with Newfoundland. The real breed may be known by its close coat which turns the water off like oil and above all, a tale like an otter." They are so respected in England that the breed champions are expected to have working certificates and in the U.S. as well, they are the backbone of field trial work. Because of their wonderful temperaments and dependability, they have become outstanding as guide dogs. They are the most popular breed in the U.S. by far and are the most popular pet.

If you would like to knit the Labrador Retriever design, to get the pattern simply go to http://www.kanineknits.com/kanine_knits_knitting_patterns.htm.

You may also order an entire collection of Labrador designs in a book that also contains a variety of patterns in which to work them as well as the stories that inspired them by going to http://www.kanineknits.com/kanine_knits_the_crafty_labrador_retriever_knits.htm

Meet the Old English Sheepdog

Old English Sheepdog

Established in the west of England in the 18th century, the Old English's ancestry is not well known. It was used by farmers as a drover's dog, moving the sheep from town to town rather than as a herding dog. It is said that the tails were docked as a sign of their profession because "drover's dogs" were exempt from taxation. Their nickname "bobtail" is felt to come from this practice. It has a profuse coat, an agile body and a tender affectionate temperament. It can be trained to do anything from retrieve to pull a sled and is not inclined to wander from home and therefore would be an excellent pet. The Old English has a distinctive rolling gait that separates it from other herding breeds.

If you wish to knit the charted design of the Old English Sheepdog, you can order the pattern by going to http://www.kanineknits.com/kanine_knits_knitting_patterns.htm

Meet the Briard

Briard

A very old working dog from France, the Briard dating back to the 8th century and has traditionally guarded the flocks against wolves. Following the French Revolution, they didn't need protection dogs as much and so their role changed to that of herder. The qualities of intelligence, loyalty which makes them outstanding family dogs. Their herding instinct can not be denied and they will herd anything, pets, small children and even their master who the Briard would butt his their massive head to push in the direction he wanted. The look of the breed is distinctive with their eyebrows and beard as well as the tail that has a distinctive hook. They are noted for having double dewclaws on the rear legs and their double coat does not let mud cling to it. Briards take very well to obedience training and thrive on encouragement rather than corrections. Verbal direction works very well and their versatility made them excel in hunting and tracking. During WWII they carried food, accompanied patrols and lead medics to the wounded on the battlefield. In the US, there is a debate over who introduced them whether it was Lafayette or Thomas Jefferson, but they were recognized by the AKC in 1922. The breed is described as "a heart wrapped in fur."

If you would like to knit the charted design of the Briard, simply go to http://www.kanineknits.com/kanine_knits_knitting_patterns.htm

Meet the Shetland Sheepdog

Shetland Sheepdog

Though the origin of the breed is in question, it is known that many of the working Collies of Scotland came to the Shetland Isles to herd the sheep. The smaller version developed there in the rough climate that wasn't kind to man or beast. The breed was free to develop in relative isolation because of this and didn't come to notice until the twentieth century. They were officially recognized in England as a breed in 1909, though they were first listed as Shetland Collies. The name was changed in 1914 at the behest of Collie breeders. In the US, their recognition came in 1911 and the first Shetland Sheepdog specialty was in 1933. The accepted standard describing the breed states that it should resemble the Rough Collie only in miniature. Because of a nature that was eager to please, they have an ease in training that has brought them to the top in the Obedience ring. Their guarding instinct, honed by generations, makes them excellent watchdogs, protecting their family as naturally as they did their flocks from invaders of any kind. They are the perfect pet for an active family since they have a joy of running and jumping that works well in playing with children and a devoted, docile nature and high, almost human, intelligence and understanding.

If you would like to knit the charted pattern for the Shetland Sheepdog, go to http://www.kanineknits.com/kanine_knits_knitting_patterns.htm

Meet the Siberian Husky

Siberian Husky

The Siberian traces its origin to the Chukchi people of northeastern Asia. They were semi-nomadic people who needed a lightweight sled dog that could carry a light load over long distances. The Americans heard about these excellent sled dogs, when they first ran in the All Alaska Sweepstakes Race in 1909. However, these greatest fame for this breed came in 1925 when the people of Nome, Alaska were stricken by an epidemic of diphtheria and the medication could only get there with a relay of sled teams and this historic Serum Run was what brought the Siberian to the attention of fans across the country. In 1930 the AKC recognized the breed and during WWII, they served with excellence in the Army's Arctic Search and Rescue of the Air Transport Command. As a breed, the Siberian Husky is noted for a gentle temperament but an independent roaming nature which means that as pets they do best getting supervision when outdoors. They are very clean dogs that adapt themselves to almost any home.

If you would like to knit the Siberian Husky pattern, go to http://www.kanineknits.com/kanine_knits_knitting_patterns.htm

Meet the Scottish Terrier

Scottish Terrier

One of the earliest and if you ask Scottish Terrier owners, the earliest of all the Highland terriers. When the dogs began to show, there was a class for Scottish Terrier, but it was often filled with Skye Terriers, Dandie Dinmonts, or Yorkies. However eventually, at the encouragement of devotees, a standard was written and accepted in 1882 and the breed was established in England. Several years later, they traveled to the US and in 1887 they were recognized by the newly formed AKC. The Scottie was chosen Best In Show most recently at this year's Westminster Kennel Club. They exhibit classic terrier temperament. They are territorial, feisty and quick but also playful, intelligent and self-assured. Though they are best known for their black coats, they also come in brindle and wheaten. They have been extremely popular in the US and probably the most famous Scottie named Fala was owned by President Franklin Roosevelt and though more recently they have been in the White House with the first President Bush. These dogs make good pets and will remain very popular.

If you would like to knit the design of the Scottish Terrier, simply go to http://www.kanineknits.com/kanine_knits_knitting_patterns.htm

Meet the Portuguese Water Dog

Portuguese Water Dog

For those of us in the United States, this breed is celebrated as First Dog, the puppy Bo who was the promised selection for the family of President Obama. These dogs were very common among the Portuguese fishermen who used them to herd the fish into the nets, to take messages from ship to ship and to retrieve anything that has fallen overboard. Their thick curling coat protected them from the frigid waters of the Atlantic. They show a calm intelligent demeanor and make an excellent pet, especially for those who need a dog with a non-allergic, non-shedding coat. At the same time he is excellent for rugged outdoor water work with its waterproof coat and webbed feet. There history is thought to trace back to the rugged Chinese/Russian steppe as herders of cattle, sheep, camels and horses perhaps dating back as far as 700B.C. Some say they were captured by the fierce Berbers and brought to North Africa and then went with them when they finally, during the 8th century, arrived in Portugal though others credit either the Goths or the Romans. None the less, the breed is a relatively new show dog in the US not being recognized to show till 1984. The breed has since become quite popular.


If you would like to knit the Portuguese Water Dog design, you can order the pattern by simply going to http://www.kanineknits.com/kanine_knits_knitting_patterns.htm.

Meet the French Bulldog

French Bulldog

The bat-eared appearance of the French Bulldog and level skull between them which then forms a sort of domed head makes them distinctive in the dog world. Unlike the English Bulldog’s dour expression, the Frenchie has a much more alert appearance and it always ready for a good romp. Their happy disposition makes them very good pets. The breed has been recognized for a long time in the US with the first specialty taking place in the famous Waldorf Astoria hotel in NYC in 1898. Though their primary occupation is as pet or companion with a compact, heavily boned body and a short coat that requires little care; the breed is also an excellent watchdog. Their size and the fact that they are known for not barking a lot, makes them excellent for apartment living. Frenchies come in several colors including brindle, fawn, white, brindle and white and their skin should be loose enough to cause wrinkles around the shoulders.

If you'd like to knit this charted design, simply go to http://www.kanineknits.com/kanine_knits_knitting_patterns.htm

Meet the Brittany

Brittany

This pointing spaniel was the perfect size for the upland hunter. The Brittany, which formerly had the name Spaniel attached to its name, is suitable for quail, prairie grouse or partridge. He has legs that look long when seen with his cobby body and is born with either a short tail or it is docked. Historically it is said to have been brought by the ancient Celts to Brittany. However, the credit for creating the talented scenting dog we now know is given to French sportsman, Arthur Enaud. The Brittany does not have a bold temperament and responds best to encouragement in training rather than firm commands. He attaches himself firmly to his owner and with his size and cheerful disposition; he makes a wonderful house pet.

If you would like to knit the charted knitting design of the Brittany, you may order it by going to http://www.kanineknits.com/kanine_knits_knitting_patterns.htm

Meet the Dalmatian

Dalmatian

Because it was the favorite dog of the Romany gypsies, the Dalmatian was found in many of the places they traditionally wandered. But, its first official home was Dalmatia, a province of Austria on the eastern coast of Venice. The Dalmatian is classified as a non-sporting dog even though it has been known that with the proper training, he makes an excellent gun dog. It has also served as a shepherd, a sentry and a guard dog. During World War II, the Dalmatian was invaluable doing war work . It eventually built a reputation as an outstanding companion dog that would loyally run beside his owner’s coach as he traveled. In the US, the Dal became the traditional mascot of firemen and is often found living in firehouses. The spotted dog is born pure white but the spots which can be either black or liver colored, develop soon. Nice spacing between the spots is desired. He is a medium sized dog that makes an excellent pet because of his happy personality. The Dal does best when he can get a lot of exercise.

If you would like to knit the charted design of the Dalmatian, you can get the pattern by going to http://www.kanineknits.com/kanine_knits_knitting_patterns.htm.

Meet the Miniature Schnauzer

Miniature Schnauzer

The Miniature Schnauzer (or Zwergschnauzer) is identical with the Standard Schnauzer except for size and the fact that they have more variation in color. The Miniature came about by crossing the Schnauzer with Affenpinschers. They are well-proportioned, a compact dog which along with a cheerful disposition is the reason they are such popular as family pets. They are a very ancient breed even appearing in a painting by Albrecht Durer in 1492. The name Schnauzer refers to the beard on its muzzle. They have had a variety of duties from herding as drovers working sheep, cattle and hogs and doing all the jobs of an active farm dog to that of rat catchers, a job at which they excelled. But this smallest of the Schnauzers is wonderful at all aspects of its life role: working dog, show dog and household pet.

If you would like to knit this charted design, you may order the pattern by going to Kanine Knits Portraits of Dogs in Knitting.

Meet the Gordon Setter

Gordon Setter

Of the four setter breeds, the Gordon Setter is the most businesslike of the dogs as he does his work quartering the field and pointing woodcock, grouse or quail. Not as flashy as the others, he gets the job done. His black and tan marking that make him so showy in the breed ring do create a problem in the field because some say he blends in so well. He is noted for his excellent loyalty to his owner and a biddable personality that accounts for the ease with which he is trained. The breed is named for the Duke of Gordon from whose kennels the dog is said to have come to prominence in the late 1700’s. They were noted for their staying power in the field and referred to as “meat” dogs meaning that at the end of day of shooting, the hunter would return with a full bag. Their steady and eager-to-please personality makes them good pets, especially with children.


If you would like to knit this pattern, go to http://www.kanineknits.com/kanine_knits_knitting_patterns.htm

Meet the Bernese Mountain Dog

Bernese Mountain Dog

Some 2000 years ago, Roman armies moved north into Helvetia, which is now called Switzerland, searching for conquest. Eventually they returned to Rome but they left behind their dogs. One of the types that developed from these surviving animals is the present day Bernese Mountain Dog. They were immediately taken on by the farmers who valued them as drovers for their ability to drive stock through the towns while keeping the animals calm. They are also renowned for their ability as draft dogs pulling carts loaded with milk each day into the towns. However, their calm ability to work around farm stock did not keep them from acting as reliable guard dogs for both the farmer’s family and his stock. Their distinctive black coats with the white and russet markings are handsome and his bond to his human companion makes him a loyal pet.

If you would like to order this charted knitting design go to http://www.kanineknits.com/kanine_knits_knitting_patterns.htm

If you would like to order the knitting book The Crafty Bernese Mt Dog Knits that is all about the Berner and contains 25 charts as well as patterns for sweaters, hats, scarves, afghans and much, much more plus stories about the breed, go to http://www.kanineknits.com/kanine_knits_books.htm.

Meet the Flat-Coated Retriever

Flat-Coated Retriever

Known as the game-keeper’s dog for its extensive use on estates in England, the Flat-Coated Retriever has not reached the level of popularity in the U.S. as the Golden or Lab has. Developed from different strains of retrievers, they were first shown as early as 1860. They were valuable in hunting because of their quiet, business-like manner and ability to take directions readily. They specialize in retrieving upland game and fowl. They are a medium sized dog that shows power as well as raciness in movement and a calm demeanor that works in a family situation.

If you'd like to get the charted knitting design for the Flat-Coated Retriever, simply go to http://www.kanineknits.com/kanine_knits_knitting_patterns.htm

Meet the Boxer

Boxer

The Boxer has always been one of the more popular breeds in the U.S. as well as in his native country of Germany and throughout Europe. The breed is noted for their sturdy beauty, good nature, as well as being sensible and dependable. It has excelled as a guard dog, war dog and even guide dog for the blind. The ancestry of the Boxer is contested but the breed came into its own in the late 19^th century and was first shown in 1895. Though it took a while to settle on the standard for the breed, they more than proved their worth during WWI serving as messenger, pack and other service dogs by the Germans for the Red Cross. The breed should show a nobility of spirit in their attitude and though friendly do not solicit attention. In the U.S. the ears are made surgically erect while in England and Europe, the natural ear is prominent.

If you would like to get a copy of this charted knitting pattern, go to http://www.kanineknits.com/kanine_knits_knitting_patterns.htm

Meet the Shih Tzu

Shih Tzu

This breed was on of the exotic gift dogs of the Dalai Lamas of Tibet. They were given to the Emperors of China who, as far back at the 16^th century, cross them with the more hardy Pekingese. The Shih Tzu was one of the three Lion Dog breeds. It was until the 1930’s that the breed attracted western attention in England and Europe and by 1957 its club was formed and the AKC finally recognized it in 1969. Weighing less than 16 lbs. the approximately 11 inch dog is longer than tall with an upcurled plumed tail, a broad head with a square muzzle and round eyes. Hair is very much a part of the dog from the top of its head to its long fringed ears to the silky coat that flows over its back covering its short heavy-boned legs. Though the coat may come in any color or combination, it moves freely as the dog displays its lively and arrogant carriage.

If you'd like to order this charted knitting pattern, go to http://www.kanineknits.com/kanine_knits_knitting_patterns.htm