All about Scotti Apso dog breed

All You Need to Know About the "Scotti Apso" Breed (parent breeds: "Lhasa Apso" × "Scottish Terrier")

Scotti Apso Weight: Average Size & Healthy RangeThe Scotti Apso weight typically ranges from 14 to 20 pounds for adult dogs. On average, a healthy Scotti Apso will weigh around 17 pounds.While there isn't a significant weight difference between males and females, male Scotti Apsos may sometimes be slightly heavier than their female counterparts, usually staying within the upper end of the established range. This provides a good guide for the average size and what constitutes a healthy weight for Scotti Apso.

What is the average height of a Scotti Apso?

For those interested in Scotti Apso colors, a delightful cross between the Lhasa Apso and Scottish Terrier, you'll find a charming array of coat options. Officially, the Scotti Apso colors often reflect their parent breeds, typically including solid black, brindle, wheaten, cream, and various shades of gray. You may also see white, fawn, gold, and red.Regarding AKC recognized Scotti Apso colors, it's important to note that the Scotti Apso is a hybrid breed, and therefore not recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC) as a standalone breed. The AKC sets color standards for its recognized purebreds (Lhasa Apso and Scottish Terrier, in this case). However, ethical breeders will strive for healthy coats that align with the accepted colors of the parent breeds.While the commonly seen colors are usually black (often with a wiry texture from the Scottie), brindle (a mix of stripes), and wheaten (a pale, often sandy color), there can be rare coat types and exotic Scotti Apso variations. These may include blue (a diluted black), chocolate (brown), or even lilac (a diluted chocolate) if specific genetic lines are present in the parent breeds. However, these are less common and typically not sought after as "official" colors in a hybrid, nor would they be "AKC recognized" for the Scotti Apso itself. Such rare Scotti Apso colors might command different pricing due to their uniqueness, but it's crucial to prioritize health and temperament over unusual coat colors. Always inquire about the genetic health screening of the parent dogs when considering any Scotti Apso, regardless of coat color.

The Scotti Apso personality is a delightful blend, inheriting the charming independence of the Scottish Terrier and the affectionate, sometimes regal, nature of the Lhasa Apso. These small, sturdy dogs are typically very loyal to their families, often forming strong bonds with a primary caregiver. Their temperament of Scotti Apso can vary, but generally, they are known for being alert and intelligent. They possess a good degree of friendliness, especially with their trusted inner circle, and can be quite playful. While they enjoy human companionship, they also appreciate their downtime and aren't overly demanding. Scotti Apsos are generally adaptable to apartment living due to their smaller size and moderate exercise needs, provided they receive daily walks and mental stimulation. With children, early socialization is key; they can be good companions for older, respectful children who understand how to interact with a small dog. Their interactions with other pets, particularly other dogs, are often positive if introduced properly and socialized from a young age, though some may exhibit a typical terrier's independent streak. Overall, the Scotti Apso is a charismatic, loving, and relatively easy-to-manage companion for those seeking a devoted furry friend.

The Scotti Apso temperament blends the best of its parent breeds, creating a charming and devoted companion dog. Expect a loyal and affectionate canine deeply bonded with its family. They are generally friendly with those they know and can be somewhat reserved but polite with strangers. Their moderate size and adaptable nature make them suitable for apartment living, provided they receive regular walks and mental stimulation.

Scotti Apso Care: Your Guide to a Healthy and Happy CompanionCaring for a Scotti Apso (Lhasa Apso x Scottish Terrier mix) involves understanding the needs inherited from both parent breeds. This charming hybrid generally requires moderate daily maintenance.Grooming Needs: Expect moderate grooming for your Scotti Apso. Their coat, often a mix of the dense Lhasa Apso and wiry Scottish Terrier, typically needs brushing 2-3 times a week to prevent matting and remove loose hair. Professional grooming every 6-8 weeks for a trim or de-shedding can also be beneficial, especially to manage potential Lhasa-like facial hair. Regular nail trims are essential to prevent overgrowth.Exercise Limitations: The Scotti Apso is generally a low-energy dog breed. They thrive on short, daily walks (20-30 minutes) and indoor playtime. Avoid strenuous exercise, especially in warm weather, due to their potential brachycephalic anatomy (flat face), inherited from the Lhasa Apso, which can lead to breathing difficulties. They are well-suited for apartment living.Dietary Considerations: Feed your Scotti Apso a high-quality, balanced diet appropriate for small to medium-sized breeds. Portion control is crucial to prevent obesity, as they can be prone to weight gain. Consult your veterinarian for specific dietary recommendations and to determine the best food for their age and activity level. Weight management for Scotti Apso is vital for their overall health.Wrinkle and Ear Cleaning: Due to the potential for facial wrinkles (from the Lhasa Apso), daily cleaning of any skin folds is essential to prevent skin irritation and infection. Use a soft, damp cloth and ensure the area is thoroughly dried. Their ears should be checked weekly for redness, odor, or discharge, and cleaned gently with a veterinarian-approved ear cleaner to prevent infections. How to care for a Scotti Apso's skin and ears is a key aspect of their hygiene.Climate Sensitivity (Brachycephalic Anatomy): The Scotti Apso can be sensitive to extreme temperatures, particularly heat, due to their potential brachycephalic features. Always ensure they have access to shade and fresh water during warmer months, and limit outdoor activity during peak heat. They are best suited for indoor living with air conditioning in hot climates.Common Health Concerns: Be aware of potential health issues common to both parent breeds. These include skin issues (allergies, hot spots), patellar luxation, eye conditions (such as progressive retinal atrophy), and dental problems. Regular veterinary check-ups are essential for early detection and preventative care. Prioritize dental care for Scotti Apso by brushing their teeth several times a week. Consistent health tips for Scotti Apso include regular vet visits, a healthy diet, and appropriate exercise.

Scotti Apso Activity Level: The Scotti Apso balances the Lhasa Apso's laid-back nature with the Scottish Terrier's spirited zest, resulting in a moderate activity level. They typically enjoy short bursts of energy followed by long periods of rest and relaxation. They are not high-endurance dogs but do require daily engagement to stay healthy and happy.

I would rate the "Size" trait of the "Scotti Apso" as a 3.The Scotti Apso, being a mix of the Lhasa Apso and the Scottish Terrier, inherits the compact and sturdy build of both parent breeds. The Lhasa Apso is a small, but solid, long-bodied dog, typically weighing between 12-18 pounds and standing 10-11 inches tall. The Scottish Terrier is also small and muscular, usually weighing 19-22 pounds and standing about 10 inches tall. Therefore, a Scotti Apso would fall within this range, generally weighing 15-25 pounds and standing around 10-12 inches at the shoulder. This places them firmly in the small to medium-small category of companion dogs. They are significantly smaller than medium-sized breeds like Beagles or French Bulldogs, and vastly smaller than large breeds such as Labradors or Golden Retrievers. Their relatively low weight and modest height make them excellently suited for apartment living, as they don't require vast amounts of space. Their portable size also makes them ideal travel companions, easily fitting into pet carriers for car or air travel. For households with space constraints, the Scotti Apso would be a fantastic choice.

The Scotti Apso would rate around a 7 for grooming requirements. This is due to its parent breeds, the Lhasa Apso and Scottish Terrier, both having coats that need regular attention. The Scotti Apso is likely to inherit a dense, double coat that sheds moderately, but can be prone to matting and tangling if not brushed several times a week. Professional grooming every 6-8 weeks would likely be necessary for trimming and maintaining the coat, preventing it from becoming too long or unruly, and keeping it free of mats. While less prone to the extreme shedding of some breeds, the combination of a terrier's wiry undercoat and an Apso's long outer coat demands consistent brushing to manage loose hair and prevent skin irritation. Ear cleaning and nail trimming would be standard for most dogs, but the potential for skin folds (from the Lhasa Apso) or a dense coat could necessitate more diligent cleaning to prevent dermatological issues. Overall, while not the most demanding, the Scotti Apso definitely requires frequent and somewhat specialized grooming compared to many smooth-coated or short-haired companion dogs.

I'd rate the Scotti Apso's "Exercise Requirements" a 6 out of 10.While the Lhasa Apso parent contributes a lower-energy, more companion-oriented temperament, the Scottish Terrier brings a feisty, tenacious, and surprisingly active drive. This creates a fascinating blend. Scotti Apsos generally have a moderate energy level; they are not couch potatoes but won't run a marathon either. They thrive on daily walks of moderate length, perhaps 30-45 minutes, combined with interactive playtime in a secure yard or home. Their intelligence, inherited from both sides, means they benefit greatly from mental stimulation, which can be just as tiring as physical activity. Without sufficient physical and mental outlets, they can become bored and potentially destructive, exhibiting behaviors like excessive barking or digging. While the Lhasa Apso's brachycephalic tendencies might suggest some respiratory limitations, the Scottish Terrier's longer muzzle typically mitigates the most severe issues, meaning most Scotti Apsos can enjoy sustained movement without extreme distress, though owners should always be mindful in hot weather. They are well-suited to activities like fetch, exploring new scents on walks, and even some beginner-level agility or obedience classes, which satisfy their intelligent and spirited nature. They require structured routines to stay healthy and mentally stimulated, as simply being left alone in a yard won't cut it, but they don't demand hours of intense exercise every day.

I'd rate the "Scotti Apso" a 7 out of 10 for its watchdog ability.This rating stems from a blend of the parent breeds' traits. The Lhasa Apso contributes a strong, inherent wariness of strangers and a keen sense of hearing, often leading to a "big dog in a small body" mentality when it comes to home defense. They are naturally territorial and will readily bark at anything perceived as unusual or threatening. The Scottish Terrier, while not as vocally persistent as the Lhasa Apso, also possesses a bold, confident nature and a strong sense of loyalty to its family. They are alert and attentive to their surroundings, and their instinct is to protect their "pack."A Scotti Apso would likely be an excellent early warning system. You can expect them to be highly alert to unfamiliar sounds, people approaching the house, or anything out of the ordinary in their environment. Their barking would likely be prompt, persistent, and somewhat assertive, making them effective at drawing attention to potential intruders. They aren't typically aggressive, but their vocalizations and confident demeanor would certainly deter most casual trespassers. They are more than just passive companions; they are capable of providing meaningful, consistent early warnings in a home environment due to their combined alertness, territorial instincts, and willingness to sound the alarm.

I'd rate the "Good with Other Dogs" trait of the Scotti Apso at a 6 out of 10.The Scotti Apso, being a mix of Lhasa Apso and Scottish Terrier, inherits a blend of personalities that can make their interactions with other dogs somewhat variable. The Lhasa Apso side tends to be more independent and can be reserved or even dominant if not properly socialized, often preferring the company of their human family. The Scottish Terrier, while intelligent and feisty, can also exhibit a strong prey drive and a tendency towards being assertive with other canines, sometimes challenging other dogs, especially those of the same sex.This combination means a Scotti Apso isn't inherently the most "go with the flow" dog in a multi-dog environment. While they are certainly capable of coexisting peacefully and even forming strong bonds with other dogs, it often requires careful socialization from a young age and ongoing positive reinforcement. They may not instantly warm up to unfamiliar dogs and can be selective about their canine friends. They might be more tolerant of dogs with a calmer demeanor or those they've grown up with, but could show less patience with overly boisterous or pushy dogs, regardless of size. There's a moderate potential for them to display dominance if they feel challenged or if boundaries aren't clear, and without proper management, their terrier instincts could lead to spats. They generally thrive in canine company when the other dog is a good match for their temperament and when introductions are managed thoughtfully. While they can adapt to multi-dog households, it often requires a structured environment and owners who are attentive to their individual dynamics.

The Scotti Apso would likely rate around a 6 out of 10 for "Energetic." This rating stems from a blend of its parent breeds. The Scottish Terrier contributes a noticeable level of spunk and a desire for activity, enjoying playful romps and walks. The Lhasa Apso, while not a couch potato, is generally more laid-back and content with moderate exercise, often preferring indoor companionship over intense outdoor adventures. Therefore, the Scotti Apso will possess a good amount of energy for daily walks, engaging playtime, and exploring, but won't typically demand the same level of rigorous activity as some highly athletic breeds. They are playful and enjoy interaction, but can also be content to relax. Their brachycephalic anatomy, inherited from the Lhasa Apso, is a significant factor in limiting their stamina and exercise tolerance. While they enjoy activity, they are prone to overheating and respiratory distress with prolonged or intense exertion, especially in warm weather. This means that while they might have the *desire* to play, their physical capabilities will naturally limit the intensity and duration of their energetic outbursts, making them more of a moderately active companion dog rather than a tireless athlete.

I'd rate the Training Requirements of the Scotti Apso at a 7. This breed inherits a fascinating mix of intelligence and independence, making training a rewarding but not always straightforward endeavor. Both parent breeds contribute to a dog that's smart and capable of learning a wide range of commands, but they also bring a noticeable streak of stubbornness. The Lhasa Apso's "royal" self-assurance means they often have their own ideas about what's important, while the Scottish Terrier's tenacious terrier spirit can lead to a "what's in it for me?" attitude.Their attention span can vary; while they can focus intently on a task, they might also get easily distracted by interesting smells or sounds, especially if they're bored. Responsiveness to commands will be good with consistent, positive reinforcement, but they're not typically the type to blindly obey without question. They thrive on clear, consistent rules and routines, and any slack in training will likely be exploited. Positive reinforcement, especially with high-value treats and praise, is highly effective, as harsh methods will only make them shut down or become more defiant.Therefore, the Scotti Apso is generally not beginner-friendly in terms of training. While a dedicated first-time owner could succeed, they would need to be prepared for a significant time commitment, research into effective training methods, and a great deal of patience. This breed truly requires experienced handling, or at the very least, an owner willing to invest in structured routines, consistent daily practice, and possibly professional guidance to navigate their intelligent yet sometimes headstrong nature.

The Scotti Apso would likely rate a 7 for Playfulness. This hybrid combines the affectionate, somewhat mischievous nature of the Lhasa Apso with the bold, often boisterous spirit of the Scottish Terrier. Scotti Apsos are typically quite active and enjoy engaging with their owners. They often have a strong prey drive inherited from the Scottie, which translates into an enthusiasm for chasing toys and playing "fetch." They appreciate interactive games and can be quite vocal in their excitement during playtime. While not as constantly "on the go" as some higher-energy terrier mixes, they are far from being couch potatoes. They thrive on attention and will often initiate play, bringing toys or nudging their owners for interaction. Their intelligence means they enjoy mental stimulation through games and training. Compared to more sedate companion breeds, they are definitely on the spirited side, but their playful energy is generally manageable and very rewarding for owners who enjoy an interactive companion.

I would rate the Affectionate trait of the Scotti Apso at a 7 out of 10.The Scotti Apso, a mix of the Lhasa Apso and Scottish Terrier, generally inherits a moderate to strong desire for human companionship. The Lhasa Apso contributes a deep loyalty and a tendency to bond very closely with their primary owner, often enjoying physical closeness like cuddling and lap-sitting once they've established trust. They are also known for their sensitivity to owner emotions, often acting as little furry thermometers. The Scottish Terrier, while also loyal, brings a touch more independence and a "terrier will." They are devoted to their family and enjoy being part of the action, often following family members around, but they might not always be the first to jump into a lap for extended cuddles, preferring to be near rather than on you.Therefore, the Scotti Apso is likely to be a devoted and loving companion who enjoys being with their family and shows affection through proximity, gentle nudges, and attentive gazes. They will certainly enjoy and thrive on affection, but their independent streak, inherited from the Scottie, means they might not always be the most overtly demonstrative or constantly demanding of physical touch compared to breeds bred solely for lap-sitting. They are likely to be sensitive to your mood and loyal to a fault, making them excellent companions, just with a touch of personal space preference that prevents them from reaching the "10" level of constant, intense physical neediness.

I'd rate the "Good with Other Pets" trait of the Scotti Apso a 6 out of 10.The Scotti Apso's parent breeds present a mixed bag when it comes to living with other pets. The Lhasa Apso, while generally tolerant, can be quite independent and may prefer being the sole focus of attention. They can also exhibit some resource guarding, especially if not properly socialized. The Scottish Terrier, on the other hand, was bred for hunting small vermin, giving them a notable prey drive that can be problematic with cats and smaller animals. While generally good with other dogs, their strong-willed nature means they may not back down from a challenge.The Scotti Apso inherits a blend of these traits. While not inherently aggressive, their independent streak and potential for resource guarding from the Lhasa side, combined with the Scottish Terrier's prey drive, mean they aren't naturally extremely pet-friendly without significant effort. They will likely require early and consistent socialization from a young age to ensure they are comfortable and respectful of other animals. Training and supervision will be crucial in multi-pet households, especially concerning smaller, fast-moving pets like cats. While they can coexist peacefully, it's more likely to be a result of dedicated training and management rather than an innate desire for constant camaraderie with other species.

Rating the Scotti Apso's "Good with Children" trait is a fascinating exercise, blending the distinct personalities of the Lhasa Apso and Scottish Terrier. On a scale of 1 to 10, the Scotti Apso would generally land around a 7.The Scotti Apso inherits a unique combination of traits from its parent breeds. The Lhasa Apso contributes a protective nature, loyalty, and a certain independent streak. While affectionate with its own family, Lhasas can be reserved with strangers and, if not properly socialized, may not always appreciate the boisterousness of young children. On the other hand, the Scottish Terrier brings a bold, confident, and somewhat feisty temperament. Scotties are known for their intelligence and playfulness, but also for their strong will and occasional stubbornness.When these two combine in the Scotti Apso, you often get a dog that is devoted to its family and can be very playful with children, particularly those who are respectful and understand a dog's boundaries. They are typically intelligent and trainable, which is a significant plus. Their moderate size makes them less intimidating than larger breeds, and they often enjoy interactive games.However, the "7" rating reflects that the Scotti Apso isn't naturally the most tolerant or endlessly patient breed, especially with very young children. Their independent streak and potential for a "terrier attitude" mean they might not always appreciate being pulled, poked, or treated like a toy. They can be vocal, which might not be ideal in a household with easily startled infants. While they can be affectionate, they may not be as inherently gentle or "bomb-proof" as some traditionally child-centric breeds.To thrive in a family setting, a Scotti Apso definitely requires training and supervision. Early and consistent socialization is crucial to help them develop into well-adjusted companions. Children must be taught how to interact respectfully with the dog, understanding their body language and when to give them space. A Scotti Apso will benefit from a structured environment and consistent boundaries. With proper introduction, ongoing training, and mutual respect, the Scotti Apso can be a loving and playful family member, but it's not a "set-it-and-forget-it" breed when it comes to children. They need proactive management to truly shine in a family with kids.

The Scotti Apso would likely rate a 6 out of 10 for "Good with Strangers." This hybrid inherits a blend of traits that make it generally polite but not overtly effusive with new people. While the Lhasa Apso can be quite reserved and even aloof with strangers, often preferring their immediate family and being watchful of newcomers, the Scottish Terrier is typically more confident and less prone to shyness, though still possessing a terrier's independent and sometimes wary nature.A Scotti Apso will generally be tolerant of unfamiliar adults and, with proper early socialization, can be quite pleasant and accepting. They are unlikely to be overtly aggressive or bite, but they may not rush up for pets and might take a moment to assess the situation. There's a good chance they'll offer a bark or two as an alert when guests arrive, a trait inherited from both parent breeds who are known for their watchdog tendencies. With consistent positive exposure, they can become quite comfortable and even friendly in public or guest-filled environments, but their natural inclination isn't to be the life of the party with every new face. They typically require consistent socialization from a young age to be truly comfortable and confident with strangers, rather than being naturally outgoing in all situations. Without it, the more reserved Lhasa traits might surface, making them more standoffish.

I would rate the Scotti Apso's winter tolerance at a 6 out of 10.While the Lhasa Apso contributes a dense double coat, providing good insulation, and the Scottish Terrier also has a wiry, somewhat protective coat, their smaller size and the potential for a brachycephalic (short-nosed) influence from the Lhasa Apso are mitigating factors. Smaller dogs lose heat more rapidly, and a brachycephalic anatomy can make breathing more difficult in very cold, dry air, potentially increasing the risk of respiratory issues or discomfort during exertion. They likely have moderate body fat, but not enough to offset significant heat loss in extremely cold conditions.The Scotti Apso would generally be able to safely enjoy outdoor activity in cold climates for reasonable periods, especially if kept active. However, they would certainly require special care during winter months compared to many larger, double-coated, or northern breeds. Owners should be mindful of extended exposure in freezing temperatures, especially during walks, and be prepared to provide a warm coat or sweater for prolonged outdoor activity. They would be susceptible to hypothermia if left unattended or exposed for too long in very harsh conditions. Compared to a Golden Retriever or a Siberian Husky, a Scotti Apso will definitely need more consideration and protection from the cold.

The "Scotti Apso," a hybrid of the Lhasa Apso and Scottish Terrier, would likely have a summer tolerance rating of 3 out of 10.This rating reflects a significant sensitivity to heat, primarily due to the potential for brachycephalic tendencies inherited from the Lhasa Apso. While Scottish Terriers are not brachycephalic, the Lhasa Apso's shortened snout can impede efficient panting, which is crucial for canine thermoregulation. Even if the Scotti Apso inherits a slightly longer muzzle, it's unlikely to be long enough to fully mitigate this risk. Both parent breeds also possess dense double coats, which, while offering some insulation, can quickly become a liability in hot and humid conditions by trapping heat close to the body. This combination of potential respiratory compromise and insulating fur places them at a high risk of overheating and heatstroke.Consequently, the Scotti Apso absolutely requires special care in summer months compared to many other companion dogs. Outdoor activity during hot weather should be severely limited to early mornings or late evenings when temperatures are cooler. Midday walks are highly discouraged, and even short excursions in the heat can be dangerous. Access to air-conditioned environments is not just recommended but often essential to prevent overheating. They will need constant access to fresh, cool water, and owners should be vigilant for any signs of heat stress, such as excessive panting, drooling, lethargy, or stumbling. In summary, their summer tolerance is poor, demanding careful management and a proactive approach to keeping them cool and safe.

I would rate the "Healthiness" trait of the "Scotti Apso" at a 6 out of 10. While generally a fairly robust breed due to the hybrid vigor often seen in crossbreeds, both parent breeds contribute some notable health predispositions that prevent a higher rating. The Lhasa Apso parentage can introduce concerns like patellar luxation, eye conditions (such as progressive retinal atrophy), and kidney issues. The Scottish Terrier side brings risks of Scottie Cramp (a neurological disorder), Von Willebrand's disease (a blood clotting disorder), and certain cancers, particularly bladder cancer. Neither parent breed is particularly prone to severe breathing difficulties, which is a plus, and their moderate size generally avoids extreme joint stress seen in very large breeds. Life expectancy is typically around 12-15 years, which is good for a dog of its size. Responsible breeding, including genetic screening for known parental issues, is crucial to minimize the risks. Without such careful breeding, the inherent genetic predispositions from both sides can manifest. Therefore, while not considered exceptionally high-maintenance in terms of health compared to some extremely brachycephalic or giant breeds, they aren't entirely free from inherited concerns and would benefit from proactive preventive care.

Rating: 7/10The Scotti Apso, inheriting traits from both the Lhasa Apso and the Scottish Terrier, would likely exhibit a strong "Protective" trait. The Lhasa Apso is renowned for its watchdog abilities, being highly alert and wary of strangers, often possessing a strong territorial instinct and an independent, watchful nature. The Scottish Terrier, while not typically a "guard dog" in the sense of a large breed, is also known for its feisty, loyal, and sometimes assertive personality, and will certainly bark at perceived threats and protect its family.Combining these, the Scotti Apso would likely be an excellent watchdog, quick to alert its owners to anything unusual with a persistent bark. Their loyalty to their family would be unwavering, and they would likely be suspicious of strangers entering their perceived territory, displaying a cautious and potentially even assertive demeanor. While their small size would prevent them from being a physical guard dog capable of "meaningful protection" against a determined intruder, their alertness and willingness to "sound the alarm" vigorously, coupled with their brave and tenacious spirit, makes them a very effective household alarm system and a strong emotional protector for their family. They are more of a companion dog with strong protective instincts than a true guard dog, but their protective nature is a significant and reliable aspect of their temperament.

I would rate the "Life Span" trait of the Scotti Apso at an 8. This breed, being a mix of the Lhasa Apso and Scottish Terrier, generally inherits a robust genetic makeup that contributes to a long and healthy life. Both parent breeds are known for their respectable lifespans, with the Lhasa Apso often living 12-15 years, and the Scottish Terrier typically 11-13 years. The Scotti Apso benefits from hybrid vigor, which can reduce the incidence of some breed-specific health issues seen in purebreds. While they can be prone to certain conditions like patellar luxation or some cancers due to their heritage, responsible breeding practices and attentive veterinary care significantly mitigate these risks. With proper nutrition, exercise, and preventative care, a Scotti Apso can very realistically live into its early to mid-teens, making them a long-lived companion dog compared to many other breeds.