Rare Breeds of Shelter Dogs

Some people are very adept at recognizing the breeds dogs have descended from. At Pets In Need we observed that many of the mixed dogs we rescue are comprised of four distinct types who have a more blended look.

What started as fun became a serious effort to analyze the temperaments and physical attributes of our dogs to try to give our adopters more information about these loving companions.

These unique dogs seem to fall into four categories, which we have named and described. So far, these rare breeds of dogs are available exclusively at Pets In Need.

Clovis Coated Terriers come in two sizes. The Miniature Clovis Coated Terriers are 5-18 pounds. The Standard Clovis Coated Terriers are 19-35 pounds. These dogs have a long wiry coat ranging from soft to harsh. They may be any color or combination of colors with sand and charcoal being the colors seen most often. Grooming is required. We believe that they are descended from Schnauzers, Wheaten Terriers, Border Terriers, West Highland White Terriers, Miniature Wire-Haired Dachshunds and Kerry Blue Terriers. These photogenic dogs are energetic and playful comics.

Madera Mingles are 20-35 pounds. These dogs have a short coat and may be any color or combination of colors. We believe that these dogs are descendents of Whippets, Viszlas, Standard Manchester Terriers and may be a cousin to the Turlock Terrier. They are sleek and square in appearance. Madera Mingles are very affectionate, active dogs who do best with families seeking an active companion. They are fairly mild-mannered, adapt well to most situations and are the “all-American” family dog.

Selma Spaniels are 5-20 pounds. These medium-coated dogs come in any color or combination of colors with black being predominant. Grooming may be required. Their expression and demeanor gives the overall feeling of softness. Selma Spaniels are very sweet-tempered, tend to be great companions for people of all ages, are anxious to please, and are typically fairly quiet dogs. These dogs appear to be descendents of Cocker Spaniels, Papillions and English Toy Spaniels.

Turlock Terriers are 10-20 pounds. Turlock Terriers may have square or rectangular proportions. They have a short, straight coat that comes in any color, with tan and brown being most common. Under-bites are prevalent. Charming, playful, loyal, and entertaining, these dogs like nothing better than being constant companions. We believe that they are descendents of Chihuahuas, Corgis, Fox Terriers, Manchester Terriers and Rat Terriers.

The most important quality of any dog is temperament, which should be loving. Temperament is the primary criterion the Pets In Need staff uses when selecting dogs and cats to bring back to our Adoption Center to give you an opportunity to adopt a Rare Breed and give them a new chance at life.

 
Founded in 1965, Pets In Need receives no federal, state or local government support.

Published in the San Mateo County Times, August 10, 2002