Aussalier

The Australian Shepherd is a well-balanced, medium-sized dog that exhibits the characteristics of a true working herding dog: strength, stamina, alertness, and remarkable agility. Males stand 20 to 23 inches at the withers and typically weigh 50 to 65 pounds, while females measure 18 to 21 inches and weigh 40 to 55 pounds. The body is slightly longer than tall, with a level topline from withers to hip joints and a moderately sloping croup. The chest is deep, reaching to the elbow, with well-sprung ribs that provide ample lung capacity for sustained work. The overall impression is of a solid, muscular dog built for endurance rather than sheer power. The Australian Shepherd's coat is medium in length and texture, weather-resistant, and may be straight or slightly wavy. The undercoat quantity varies according to climate. Hair is shorter and smoother on the head, ears, front of forelegs, and below the hocks, with moderate feathering on the backs of the forelegs and fuller breeches on the hindquarters. A moderate mane adorns the neck, more pronounced in males. The breed appears in four recognized colors: black, blue merle, red, and red merle, all with or without white markings and tan points. The merle patterns create uniquely beautiful marbled effects that make each dog distinctive. The head is clean-cut, strong, and in proportion to the body, with a flat to slightly rounded skull and a moderate stop. Eyes are almond-shaped and may be brown, blue, amber, or any combination, including heterochromia. The expression conveys intelligence, alertness, and keen interest. Triangular ears are set high on the head and break forward or to the side when alert. An identifying characteristic is the naturally bobbed tail or docked tail not exceeding four inches. The smooth, free gait exhibits great agility with well-balanced, ground-covering strides, reflecting the breed's ability to change direction instantly while working livestock.

The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is an active, graceful, and elegant toy spaniel that combines the gentle attentiveness of a lap dog with the sporting character of its spaniel heritage. Standing 12 to 13 inches at the withers and weighing 13 to 18 pounds, the Cavalier is among the largest of the toy breeds. The body is slightly longer than tall, with a level topline, moderate chest depth, and well-sprung ribs. Despite their refined appearance, Cavaliers possess proper muscle tone and absolute soundness that enables them to keep pace with an active family. The Cavalier's head is one of its most endearing features, displaying the breed's characteristic sweet, gentle expression. The skull is slightly rounded but appears flat due to the high placement of the ears. The muzzle is approximately one and a half inches in length, tapering but without snipiness, and the stop is shallow. Large, round, dark brown eyes are set well apart, conveying warmth and an appealing, trusting expression. The long, silky, feathered ears are set high and frame the face beautifully when the dog is alert. The nose is fully pigmented in black, and the lips are well-developed but not pendulous. The Cavalier's coat is silky, moderate in length, and may display a slight wave but should never curl. Feathering adorns the ears, chest, legs, feet, and tail, and this characteristic feathering is an important breed feature that should be left untrimmed. Four distinct color patterns are recognized: Blenheim features rich chestnut markings on a pearly white background, often with the prized lozenge spot between the ears; Tricolor displays jet black markings on white with tan points; Black and Tan is raven black with tan highlights; and Ruby is a rich, solid red. The well-set tail is carried happily, completing the picture of an elegant, cheerful companion.