ENC
Breed Description

The ENC is known by several names that reflect both its historical development and distinctive physical characteristics. In many regions, it may be called the Continental Toy Spaniel, which emphasizes its European origins and spaniel heritage. The breed is sometimes referred to as the Dwarf Spaniel, highlighting its diminutive size compared to its larger spaniel cousins. Historical references occasionally use the term "Squirrel Spaniel," a name that derives from the breed's distinctively plumed tail that resembles a squirrel's bushy appendage. In some European countries, variations of "Butterfly Dog" appear due to the characteristic ear set and feathering that creates a distinctive silhouette. Belgian and French breed enthusiasts sometimes use regional names that reflect the breed's Continental heritage. Show circles may use the formal designation "Continental Toy Spaniel (ENC type)" to distinguish between ear variations within the broader breed family. Regardless of the name used, all refer to the same elegant, intelligent toy breed that has captured hearts for centuries.

The ENC represents the epitome of elegance and intelligence wrapped in a small, portable package. This remarkable toy breed combines aristocratic bearing with surprising athleticism, creating a companion that is equally at home gracing a formal drawing room or competing in agility trials. The breed's most immediately recognizable feature consists of large, expressive ears that are set high and carried erect, creating a distinctive silhouette that has remained virtually unchanged for centuries.

Standing between 8 and 11 inches at the shoulder and weighing between 5 and 10 pounds, the ENC possesses a build that is both delicate and sturdy. Their body is slightly longer than tall, creating a rectangular outline that suggests both grace and substance. Despite their toy classification, these dogs are surprisingly robust and athletic, capable of remarkable feats of agility and endurance that often surprise those unfamiliar with the breed's capabilities.

The head of the ENC is perhaps their most distinguishing characteristic, featuring a slightly rounded skull with a well-defined stop that creates an alert, intelligent expression. Their eyes are large, round, and dark, conveying a bright intelligence that reflects the breed's remarkable cognitive abilities. The eyes are set wide apart and positioned to give the dog an alert, interested expression that captures their perpetual curiosity about the world around them.

The breed's coat is one of their most beautiful attributes, consisting of a single-layered, silky texture that lies flat against the body while creating abundant feathering on the ears, chest, legs, and tail. This coat requires regular maintenance but rewards the dedicated owner with stunning beauty and a lustrous appearance that catches light beautifully. The coat color patterns are varied and striking, typically featuring a white base with patches of other colors distributed in distinctive patterns across the head and body.

The ENC's movement is distinctive and eye-catching, characterized by a light, flowing gait that seems almost to dance across the ground. Their tail is set high and carried over the back in a graceful arch, heavily plumed with long, silky hair that creates a stunning accent to their overall silhouette. When alert or excited, the entire dog seems to come alive with energy and enthusiasm, creating an infectious sense of joy and vitality.

Temperamentally, the ENC is a breed of remarkable complexity and depth. They combine the gentle, affectionate nature expected of a companion breed with a surprising degree of alertness and protective instinct. These dogs form intense bonds with their human families while remaining friendly and sociable with strangers when properly socialized. Their intelligence is multifaceted, encompassing both problem-solving abilities and an remarkable capacity for learning and retaining complex behaviors.

The breed's energy levels are moderate to high, requiring regular mental and physical stimulation to remain content and well-behaved. An under-exercised or bored ENC may develop behavioral issues, but when their needs are met, they become delightful companions that adapt well to various living situations. They excel in many canine sports and activities, from obedience and agility to therapy work and competitive showing.

One of the most remarkable aspects of the ENC personality is their emotional intelligence and sensitivity to human moods and needs. These dogs seem to possess an innate understanding of their owner's emotional state and often provide comfort and companionship exactly when it's needed most. This quality, combined with their portable size and generally quiet nature, makes them excellent therapy dogs and emotional support animals.

The breed's alertness makes them excellent watchdogs despite their small size. They are typically quick to announce visitors or unusual occurrences while rarely showing aggression toward people or other animals. This balanced approach to territorial behavior reflects the breed's intelligence and discriminating nature, as they learn to distinguish between genuine concerns and routine daily activities.

Socially, ENCs are generally adaptable and friendly, getting along well with children, other dogs, and even cats when properly introduced and socialized. However, their small size requires careful supervision around very young children or large, boisterous dogs to prevent accidental injury. They seem to have little awareness of their diminutive stature and will often challenge much larger dogs if they feel their family or territory is threatened.

The breed's longevity is one of their most appealing characteristics, with many ENCs living well into their mid-teens when provided with proper care and nutrition. This long lifespan means that families choosing an ENC are making a commitment that may span well over a decade, during which the dog becomes deeply integrated into family life and routines.

Training an ENC is generally a rewarding experience due to their intelligence and eagerness to please. They respond best to positive reinforcement methods and can become stressed or shut down when subjected to harsh training techniques. Their sensitive nature means they pick up on subtle cues from their handlers, making them excellent candidates for advanced training in various disciplines.

American Kennel Club (AKC)

The AKC standard describes the ENC as a small, friendly, elegant toy dog with distinctive large, erect ears. The height ranges from 8 to 11 inches at the highest point of the shoulder blades, with weight in proportion to height. The head is small with a well-rounded skull and a distinct stop. Eyes are dark, round, and not protruding, with an alert expression. Ears are large, set high and well apart, strongly erect with rounded tips. The body is slightly longer than tall with a level topline. The tail is long, set high, and carried over the body with a graceful curve. The coat is abundant, long, fine, and silky without undercoat, straight with resilient quality. Color is white with patches of any color except liver, with symmetry of facial markings preferred.

Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI)

The FCI standard classifies the ENC in Group 9 (Companion and Toy Dogs), Section 9 (Continental Toy Spaniel). The height should be approximately 28 cm (11 inches) with a tolerance of 2 cm, with weight proportional to size. The head shows a slightly rounded skull with a pronounced stop. Eyes are large, well open, almond-shaped, and dark colored. Ears are thin skinned, placed quite high with the opening directed forward, large and mobile with rounded tips. The body is slightly longer than tall with a straight topline. The tail is set quite high, long and well plumed, curved over the back. The coat is without undercoat, abundant and wavy but not curly, silky and supple. The color is white with patches of all colors except liver.

United Kennel Club (UKC)

The UKC places the ENC in the Companion Dog Group and emphasizes the breed's toy spaniel heritage and companionship qualities. The height ranges from 8 to 11 inches with weight in proportion. The head is slightly rounded with a well-defined stop and a fine, tapering muzzle. Eyes are medium-sized, round, and dark with an alert expression. Ears are large, set high, and carried erect with heavily fringed edges. The body is slightly rectangular with a level back. The tail is long, set high, and arched over the back with abundant plume. The coat is single, long, fine, and silky without undercoat, lying flat with abundant feathering. Colors include white with patches of any color except liver.

Other Organizations

The Kennel Club (UK) maintains similar standards emphasizing the breed's toy spaniel classification and elegant appearance. The Canadian Kennel Club aligns with AKC standards while recognizing the breed's European heritage. The Australian National Kennel Council follows FCI guidelines with emphasis on temperament and soundness. Many European kennel clubs maintain detailed standards that emphasize the breed's historical development as palace companions and their gentle, intelligent nature. Continental breed clubs often provide additional guidance on coat care and color genetics, reflecting centuries of breeding experience in the breed's countries of origin.

The ENC boasts one of the most fascinating and well-documented histories of any toy breed, with origins tracing back over 700 years to the royal courts and noble houses of medieval Europe. The breed's development is intimately connected with the rise of European aristocracy and the increasing sophistication of court life during the Renaissance period. Archaeological evidence and artistic representations suggest that dogs of this type were present in Continental Europe as early as the 13th century, where they served as beloved companions to nobility and wealthy merchants.

The breed's early development occurred primarily in France and Belgium, where small spaniels were selectively bred for increasingly diminutive size and elegant appearance. These early dogs were larger than modern ENCs, but they possessed the same distinctive ear set and silky coat that characterizes the breed today. The influence of Italian and Spanish toy breeds is evident in historical breeding records, suggesting a complex development involving multiple regional types that were gradually refined into the elegant dog we know today.

During the Renaissance period, ENCs gained tremendous popularity among European royalty and nobility. They appear frequently in paintings by master artists of the period, often depicted as cherished companions of queens, princesses, and court ladies. These artistic representations provide valuable insights into the breed's historical appearance and the high regard in which they were held by the most powerful and influential people of their time.

The breed's association with French royalty became particularly strong during the reign of Louis XIV and his successors. Court records from Versailles mention numerous small spaniels that lived in the palace, receiving the finest care and accommodations. The dogs were often given elaborate names and treated as beloved family members rather than mere pets. This royal patronage helped establish the breed's reputation and ensured its survival during times of political upheaval and social change.

The development of distinct ear types within the breed occurred gradually over several centuries. While the erect-eared variety became dominant in some regions, drop-eared variants continued to be bred and valued in others. This natural variation was eventually recognized and preserved by dedicated breeders who appreciated both forms. The geographic distribution of ear types often reflected regional preferences and breeding philosophies.

The French Revolution and subsequent social upheavals of the late 18th and early 19th centuries posed significant challenges to the breed's survival. Many aristocratic families that had maintained breeding programs for generations were displaced or eliminated, leading to the loss of numerous bloodlines and breeding records. However, the breed's adaptability and appeal to the emerging middle class helped ensure its continuation during these turbulent times.

The 19th century marked a period of renewed interest in purebred dogs and the establishment of formal breed standards and registry systems. The ENC benefited from this trend, with dedicated breeders working to preserve and improve the breed's characteristics. The establishment of dog shows and breeding clubs provided new venues for promoting the breed and maintaining breeding records.

The breed's introduction to England occurred during the Victorian era, when continental toy breeds became fashionable among the English aristocracy. British breeders contributed to the breed's development, often emphasizing different characteristics than their Continental counterparts. This cross-pollination of breeding philosophies helped maintain genetic diversity while preserving the breed's essential characteristics.

World War I and World War II presented severe challenges for ENC breeders across Europe. Food shortages made it difficult to maintain large breeding programs, and the disruption of transportation and communication made it nearly impossible to maintain the international connections that had become essential for genetic diversity. Many valuable bloodlines were lost during these periods, particularly in regions most affected by military action.

The post-war recovery period saw renewed enthusiasm for the breed, particularly in North America where European immigrants and returning servicemen brought renewed interest in Continental toy breeds. American breeders worked diligently to rebuild breeding programs using the limited genetic material available, often collaborating with European colleagues to import new bloodlines.

The breed's recognition by major kennel clubs occurred gradually throughout the 20th century, with different organizations recognizing the breed at different times and sometimes under different names. This recognition process helped standardize breeding practices and establish consistent breed standards across different countries and regions.

Modern ENC breeding has been significantly influenced by advances in veterinary medicine, genetics, and animal nutrition. Contemporary breeders have access to health testing and genetic analysis that allows them to make more informed breeding decisions while preserving the breed's essential characteristics. International communication and transportation have also made it easier to maintain genetic diversity and share breeding knowledge across geographic boundaries.

Today's ENC represents the culmination of centuries of selective breeding for companionship, intelligence, and beauty. While the breed has adapted to modern life and lifestyles, it retains the aristocratic bearing and gentle temperament that made it beloved by European nobility. The breed's continued popularity reflects its successful adaptation to contemporary life while maintaining the special qualities that have made it a cherished companion for over seven centuries.

The ENC was developed primarily as a companion dog, a role that has remained consistent throughout the breed's long history. Unlike many breeds that were originally created for specific working purposes and later adapted to companionship, the ENC was bred from its earliest days to serve as a beloved family member and court companion. This singular focus on companionship has shaped every aspect of the breed's development, from their size and temperament to their intelligence and adaptability.

In medieval and Renaissance courts, ENCs served multiple functions beyond simple companionship. They acted as living bed warmers, providing comfort and warmth during cold winter nights in drafty castles and palaces. Their small size made them ideal for this purpose, while their gentle nature ensured they would not disturb their human companions during sleep. This intimate role in daily life helped strengthen the bond between humans and dogs while demonstrating the breed's adaptability to human needs.

The breed's alertness and protective instincts made them excellent personal protection dogs for their aristocratic owners. While too small to provide physical protection against human threats, ENCs served as early warning systems, alerting their owners to approaching visitors or unusual circumstances. Their discriminating nature allowed them to distinguish between welcome guests and potential threats, making them valuable assets in court environments where political intrigue was common.

ENCs also served important social functions in aristocratic society. Their presence indicated wealth, refinement, and good taste, making them valuable status symbols for their owners. The time and resources required to maintain their elaborate coats and provide appropriate care demonstrated the owner's prosperity and attention to luxury. In formal social settings, the dogs often served as conversation starters and icebreakers, helping to facilitate social interactions among the nobility.

The breed's intelligence and trainability made them popular performers in various court entertainments. They could be taught elaborate tricks and routines that delighted royal audiences and demonstrated the skill of their trainers. This performance aspect of their function helped establish the breed's reputation for intelligence and eagerness to please, qualities that continue to characterize the breed today.

As European society evolved and the middle class grew in wealth and influence, ENCs adapted to serve similar functions in bourgeois households. They provided companionship and emotional support to families while serving as symbols of prosperity and refinement. Their manageable size made them suitable for urban living, while their gentle nature made them appropriate companions for children and elderly family members.

In modern times, the ENC's primary function remains companionship, but they have adapted to fulfill many contemporary roles. They excel as therapy dogs, providing comfort and emotional support in hospitals, nursing homes, and other care facilities. Their gentle nature, combined with their attractive appearance and portable size, makes them ideal for this important work. Many ENCs serve as emotional support animals for individuals dealing with anxiety, depression, or other mental health challenges.

The breed's intelligence and eagerness to please have made them successful competitors in various dog sports and activities. They excel in obedience competitions, where their trainability and desire to work with their handlers are significant advantages. In agility competitions, their athleticism and quick thinking often surprise observers who underestimate their capabilities based on their toy classification.

ENCs have found new roles as service dogs for individuals with certain types of disabilities. While their small size limits their ability to perform physical tasks like guide work or mobility assistance, they can be trained to detect medical emergencies, retrieve medications, or provide other specialized services. Their size advantage comes into play when owners need a service dog that can accompany them in restricted spaces or transportation situations.

The breed's natural alertness continues to make them effective watchdogs in modern homes. They maintain their historical role as early warning systems, alerting their families to visitors or unusual activities while rarely displaying inappropriate aggression. This balanced approach to protection makes them suitable for families seeking a dog that will provide security awareness without the complications associated with more aggressive breeds.

In contemporary family settings, ENCs often serve as bridges between different family members, providing a shared focus for affection and care. They frequently become particularly bonded with elderly family members or children, providing companionship and emotional support during difficult transitions or challenging life circumstances. Their longevity means they can provide stability and continuity through many years of family changes.

The breed's function as a fashion accessory and status symbol persists in modern times, though perhaps in more subtle ways than in historical periods. Their elegant appearance and aristocratic bearing continue to attract individuals who appreciate beautiful, refined companion animals. However, responsible ownership requires understanding that beyond their aesthetic appeal, ENCs need mental stimulation, exercise, and emotional engagement to fulfill their potential as companions.

Perhaps most importantly, the modern ENC continues to fulfill their most ancient function as loving, devoted family members who provide unconditional affection and loyalty to their human companions. This fundamental role transcends historical periods and social changes, representing the enduring bond between humans and dogs that has made the ENC a treasured breed for over seven centuries.

The ENC displays a remarkably complex behavioral repertoire that reflects centuries of selective breeding for companionship and intelligence. Their behavior patterns are characterized by an unusual combination of confidence and sensitivity, creating dogs that are both bold and responsive to their environment. Understanding these behavioral characteristics is essential for successful ownership and for appreciating the breed's unique personality traits.

Social behavior is perhaps the most developed aspect of the ENC personality. These dogs are inherently people-oriented, seeking human companionship and interaction as a primary source of satisfaction and security. They typically form intense bonds with their immediate family members while maintaining friendly relationships with regular visitors and acquaintances. This social sophistication allows them to navigate complex human relationships with remarkable skill and sensitivity.

The breed's communication patterns are particularly sophisticated, involving a combination of vocalizations, body language, and facial expressions that rival those of much larger breeds. ENCs are generally not excessive barkers, but they use their voices strategically to communicate specific needs, alerts, or emotional states. Their ability to modulate their vocal communications based on circumstances demonstrates their intelligence and social awareness.

Territorial behavior in ENCs is typically well-balanced and appropriate to their size and function. They will alert their families to visitors or unusual activities without displaying excessive aggression or inappropriate responses to routine events. This discriminating approach to territory protection reflects their intelligence and their historical development as court companions who needed to distinguish between welcome guests and potential threats.

Play behavior remains prominent throughout the ENC's life, with many individuals maintaining puppy-like enthusiasm for games and activities well into their senior years. Their play styles are typically gentle and controlled, making them appropriate playmates for children and other small pets. They often invent their own games and entertainment, demonstrating creativity and problem-solving abilities that keep their owners entertained.

The breed's exploratory behavior is characterized by curiosity balanced with caution. ENCs typically investigate new environments and situations thoroughly but carefully, using their intelligence to assess potential risks before fully committing to new experiences. This measured approach to exploration reflects their sensitive nature and their desire to maintain security while satisfying their natural curiosity.

Attention-seeking behaviors are common in ENCs, though they typically manifest in charming rather than problematic ways. These dogs are skilled at reading human moods and timing their requests for attention appropriately. They often develop elaborate routines for soliciting affection or play, demonstrating both their intelligence and their deep understanding of human behavior patterns.

Learning behavior in ENCs is characterized by rapid acquisition of new skills combined with excellent retention of learned behaviors. They respond best to positive reinforcement training methods and can become stressed or shut down when subjected to harsh corrections. Their learning style tends to be methodical, with dogs often appearing to think through problems before responding.

The breed's adaptive behavior is one of their most remarkable characteristics. ENCs can adjust their activity levels, social behaviors, and daily routines to match their family's lifestyle and preferences. This adaptability has made them successful companions in various living situations, from urban apartments to rural estates, and with families ranging from active young couples to elderly retirees.

Stress responses in ENCs tend to be subtle and may be missed by inexperienced owners. These dogs rarely display dramatic stress behaviors, instead showing their discomfort through changes in appetite, sleep patterns, or social interactions. Understanding these subtle signs is crucial for maintaining the dog's emotional well-being and preventing the development of more serious behavioral issues.

The breed's bonding behavior is intense and selective. While friendly with most people, ENCs typically form primary attachments to one or two family members, often following these preferred humans throughout the house and seeking constant proximity. This strong bonding tendency can lead to separation anxiety if not properly managed through gradual conditioning and appropriate independence training.

Routine-oriented behavior is common in ENCs, who often establish preferred patterns for daily activities such as meals, walks, and rest periods. They typically adapt well to consistent schedules but may show stress when routines are disrupted without preparation. This preference for predictability reflects their sensitive nature and their desire for security and stability.

The breed's problem-solving behavior demonstrates their intelligence and creativity. ENCs often find innovative solutions to challenges, whether figuring out how to access a favorite sleeping spot or developing strategies for getting their owner's attention. This cognitive flexibility makes them engaging companions but also requires owners to provide appropriate mental stimulation to prevent boredom and associated behavioral problems.

The ENC's integration into family life represents one of their greatest strengths as companion animals. These dogs seem to possess an innate understanding of family structures and relationships, often positioning themselves as central figures who help bind family members together through shared affection and care. Their approach to family life is both sophisticated and intuitive, reflecting centuries of selective breeding for companionship and emotional intelligence.

Within family hierarchies, ENCs typically establish individual relationships with each family member based on that person's role, personality, and interaction style. They may be more playful and energetic with children, calmer and more settled with elderly family members, and more obedient and responsive with the family member who provides primary training and care. This ability to adjust their behavior appropriately for different family members demonstrates their social intelligence and adaptability.

The breed's relationship with children is generally excellent when both the dog and children are properly prepared for interaction. ENCs are typically patient and gentle with respectful children, often becoming devoted playmates and protectors. However, their small size requires careful supervision around very young children who may not understand appropriate handling techniques. Many families find that ENCs help teach children responsibility and empathy through their care and training.

ENCs often serve as emotional barometers within family settings, responding sensitively to family tensions, celebrations, or changes in routine. They frequently provide comfort to family members who are experiencing stress, illness, or emotional difficulties, seeming to understand instinctively when their presence and affection are most needed. This emotional responsiveness makes them valuable family members who contribute to overall household harmony and well-being.

The breed's response to family visitors and guests typically reflects their upbringing and socialization experiences. Well-socialized ENCs are generally welcoming to family friends and regular visitors while maintaining appropriate caution around strangers. They often serve as informal hosts, greeting guests and helping to create a warm, welcoming atmosphere in the home.

In multi-pet households, ENCs generally establish peaceful relationships with other animals when proper introductions and socialization occur. Their small size requires careful management around larger dogs, but their confident nature usually prevents them from being overly intimidated by size differences. They often develop strong friendships with other small dogs and can learn to coexist peacefully with cats and other family pets.

The breed's daily routine preferences often become integrated into family schedules, with many families adjusting their activities to accommodate their ENC's needs and preferences. These dogs typically enjoy being included in family activities and may show stress or anxiety when excluded from normal family routines. Their portable size makes it easy to include them in many family outings and activities.

ENCs often become particularly important to families during transitions such as moves, job changes, or family structure changes. Their steady, loving presence can provide stability and comfort during uncertain times, helping family members cope with stress and change. Many families report that their ENC served as a source of consistency and emotional support during difficult periods.

The breed's longevity means they often become witnesses to major family milestones and changes over their 14-16 year lifespan. They may be present for the birth of children, graduations, weddings, and other significant family events, becoming part of the family's historical narrative and emotional legacy. This long-term presence makes them particularly precious family members whose loss is deeply felt.

Training and behavior management within families works best when all family members participate consistently in establishing and maintaining expectations. ENCs are skilled at reading different family members and may attempt to exploit inconsistencies in rules or expectations. Family training sessions can be particularly effective for establishing the dog's role within the family structure while strengthening bonds between all family members.

The breed's protective instincts typically extend to all family members, though they may show stronger protective responses toward more vulnerable family members such as children or elderly relatives. This protective behavior is usually expressed through alerting and positioning rather than aggression, reflecting their intelligent approach to family security and their understanding of their size limitations.

ENCs often develop special relationships with family members who are home more frequently, such as retirees, individuals who work from home, or primary caregivers. These close bonds can be deeply rewarding for both the dog and the human involved, but they require careful management to prevent separation anxiety when the preferred person must be away from home for extended periods.

The breed's contribution to family life extends beyond mere companionship to include tangible benefits such as encouraging physical activity through daily walks, providing entertainment through their playful antics, and serving as conversation starters in social situations. Many families find that their ENC helps them connect with other dog owners and creates opportunities for social interaction and community involvement.

The ENC is generally considered a healthy and robust breed with fewer genetic health problems than many other purebred dogs, particularly when compared to other toy breeds. Their longevity typically ranges from 14 to 16 years, with many individuals living well beyond this range when provided with proper care, nutrition, and veterinary attention. The breed's health profile benefits from centuries of breeding for companionship rather than extreme physical characteristics, which has helped maintain genetic diversity and overall soundness.

The breed's small size creates certain health considerations that owners should understand and monitor throughout the dog's life. Their delicate bone structure requires careful handling and protection from falls or injuries that might be minor for larger dogs but could be serious for an ENC. Steps, ramps, and other aids can help prevent injuries while allowing the dog to maintain independence and mobility.

Dental health is particularly important for ENCs, as their small mouths can be prone to overcrowding of teeth and associated problems such as tartar buildup and periodontal disease. Regular dental care, including professional cleanings and home maintenance, is essential for preventing dental problems that can affect overall health and quality of life. Many ENCs benefit from dental chews and toys designed specifically for small breeds.

The breed's luxurious coat requires regular maintenance not only for appearance but also for health reasons. Matting and tangles can trap moisture and debris against the skin, potentially leading to skin irritations or infections. Regular brushing and periodic professional grooming help maintain coat health while providing opportunities to check for skin problems, parasites, or other health issues.

Weight management is crucial for ENC health, as excess weight can put significant stress on their small frames and contribute to various health problems. Their appealing nature and small size can make it tempting to overfeed or over-treat these dogs, but maintaining appropriate body weight is essential for joint health, cardiovascular fitness, and overall well-being throughout their lives.

The breed's active nature and intelligence require regular mental and physical stimulation to maintain optimal health. Lack of appropriate exercise and mental engagement can lead to behavioral problems, stress-related health issues, and reduced quality of life. However, exercise needs can typically be met through daily walks, indoor play, and training activities that don't require extensive space or extreme physical demands.

Regular veterinary care is essential for maintaining ENC health throughout their long lifespan. Annual wellness examinations allow for early detection of age-related changes and health problems, while keeping vaccinations and preventive care current. Many health problems are more successfully managed when detected early, making regular veterinary care a worthwhile investment in the dog's long-term health and quality of life.

If you're looking to adopt an ENC, consider contacting these breed-specific rescue organizations:

"Don't Shop... Please Adopt" - There are many wonderful ENCs waiting for their forever homes.

Due to the changing nature of rescue organizations, please verify website functionality before contacting.