EXOTIC DOG BREEDS IN GUYANA – FURTHER CONSIDERATIONS

We have been dedicating much time to the vulnerabilities associated with animals being brought from climatic environments dissimilar to those found in the tropics, viz Guyana. We documented the ailments that certain large breeds are prone to encountering here in the tropics. Today, we will commence a review of the smaller exotic breeds that are entering Guyana, including those that have been here, and their inherent deficiencies and inabilities to cope with the local stressors (e.g., heat, humidity, poor diets, etc.).
All dogs, with very few exceptions, are companion animals, i.e., providing companionship to humans. The larger breeds are often involved in sport and service (guarding, herding, tracking, etc.). The smaller breeds are true pets. To make the definition for “small breeds” easier to grasp, I would list some of the most popular, in no particular order: Spaniels, Tibetan Terriers, Chihuahuas, the Maltese, Shih Tzus, the Bichon Friser, Yorkies, Pekinese, the Lhasa Apso, Pugs and the French Bulldog. Some authors/Veterinarians would include small Schnauzers and Miniature Poodles in the category of small dog breeds.
Further, if we include the “Designer Breeds” (a bit of everything type) to which I have previously alluded, then the list of genuine pet dogs, (sometimes I call them “Lap Dogs” – meaning that they are the ones that comfortably sit in the caregiver’s lap, enjoying each other’s company for lengthy periods) becomes open-ended and infinite. Consequently, I will not address the behavioural patterns and personalities of the “Labradoodle” (Labrador Retriever x Standard Poodle); the “Cockerpoo” (Cocker Spaniel x Poodle), etc.
Moreover, it would be remiss of me not to mention that even when the parents of these “Designer Dogs” from readily recognized and standardized breeds, it is well-nigh impossible to predict which side of the parental breeds the puppies will favour. The Penguin Dog Encyclopedia states with conviction that the popular “Labradoodle”, for example, shows little consistency and standardization from litter to litter.
Now, let us look at some of the popular small breeds currently entering Guyana. I must hasten to add that I personally have the suspicion that canine caregivers often follow the tendencies to acquire companion animals which have relatively recently become the “pet-of-choice” up North. For example, the French Bulldog has now become the Number 1 pet in the USA and, true to form, local vets are seeing French Bulldogs as patients – much more than usual. You might remember that, in a previous Pet Care article, I mentioned the predispositions of “flat faced” small breeds to specific ailments. They often exhibit symptoms associated with great respiratory distress in our extremely warm environment with very high humidity levels.
Any owner of this lovable, active, and intelligent tiny dog (the smallest dog breed in the world) will very likely vigorously respond to any belittling (pardon the pun) comment about his/her pet Chihuahua. “A rat that barks” comment will harvest an appropriate deprecatory (sometimes expletives) reaction. Indeed, my experience with Chihuahuas would affirm that despite being small they exhibit large dog personalities. Chihuahuas can become quite irascible if they believe that they are being provoked or threatened. Vets beware!
The only time, in my 54 years as practicing veterinarian, when I was bitten (early in my career as young, inexperienced “new” vet at my University Clinic), was by a Chihuahua, to whom I did not offer the requisite respect, approbation, courtesy, humility (mine not his), deference and special attention. With one speedy and targeted move of his head, he drew my blood. Much respect Chihuahuas.
The Chihuahua appears to consider itself to be under constant threat. Let’s face it: he may be less than 6 pounds in weight and only a few inches off the ground and is surrounded by human heavyweights, who can inadvertently crush him. He lives in a constant world of angst and anxiety. It is not surprising that this breed displays some degree of acerbity and vexatiousness which can quickly escalate to malevolence.
Notwithstanding their highly spirited personalities, let me now hasten to add that Chihuahuas are among the most companionable and loving pets. Just as the caregiver loves him/her, he/she requites that affection. Chihuahuas become very attached to their owners but are very wary of strangers wanting to pet them. These dogs just love to play with their adult caregivers and are profoundly attached to them (as their “protectors”?). Not so much with children. As such, they are not usually recommended as playmates for children, who may consider Chihuahuas to be toys – something that any self-respecting Chihuahua will resent and possibly react accordingly. A significant plus for this breed (long-haired or short-haired) is that it does not require much grooming. If well cared for, Chihuahuas may live for as long as 12-15 years.
Chihuahuas have been around in Guyana for quite some time. Next week, we shall continue with the discussion on other small exotic breeds which have relatively recently been brought into Guyana.