Arolosian HoundsEntered by: SnowRaven Date: 2007-04-17 Relevant to: Arolos Summary: Canines bred by Tarvos the Kennelmaster, for Arolos Weyr - A hunting, herding, family dog Article: Description: The Arolosian Hound is an unquestionably muscular, sturdy, rugged Southern dog. The coat comes in a variety of shades of yellow, fawns and brindle. Some AHs are born with heavier coats and some are born with lighter coats; these two different coat types can appear in the same litter. The undeniably powerful muzzle is black, tan or the same color as the coat. Black muzzles are usually preferred and any other color is considered a fault. The ears are medium-sized and hanging. The tail can be quite whip like. Many are born with a short tail or have it docked. The chest is deep and solid. Temperament: For the people who hunt, no other dog will do. Among this swift hunter's quarry is feral boar and heardbeasts, whers, felines and wherrys. With medium-sized game, the Arolosian catches and kills it with no questions asked. This dog never retreats. It is also proficient at treeing and baying. During the hunt, trailing is semi-open or silent, with a chop or yodel acceptable on tree or at bay. AHs rarely trot, even while hunting, going from a walk to a ground-covering sprint. These dogs are avid hunters, yet can also work with cattle. Breeders say a pup will train himself treeing, protecting and/or bunching and penning cattle by six months of age. As relentless and overpowering as this hound appears at work, he is kind and protective with his family. Loyalty and fearlessness are the norm. They have a burning desire to please their master. Male dogs are especially affectionate to women, preferring ladies for company and being aloof with strange men. Notably protective of children. Some object to parents disciplining children, which of course, children love. VERY IMPORTANT POINT: do not strike or spank to train. This is very counter-productive. AH's are VERY voice sensitive. A stern voice, USED SPARINGLY, is the best tool. If you can get them to figure out what you want them to do, you've got it made. Intelligent, predictable, with an even temperament, the Arolosian Hound are loyal to their families, giving their lives, if necessary, to protect them. Start training the Arolosian puppy as soon as you bring it home. Training sessions should be short and frequent to keep them from becoming bored. This working dog should not be trusted with non-canine pets. Height, Weight: Height: 16-25 inches (40-64 cm.) Weight: 45-95 pounds (20-43 kg.) Living Conditions: The Arolosian Hound is not the best choice for close quarters or small apartment life. Exercise: The Arolosian Hound is a hunting dog that needs a great deal of regular exercise. These dogs are extremely intelligent, and even a long run once a day would not be enough to keep them occupied. Very physical dog, unless it senses fragile young children or women. Needs plenty of room to run. They do best in a home with a large yard to protect. Life Expectancy: 10 to 14 turns Grooming: The short hair of the Arolosian Hound is easy to groom. Occasionally comb and brush to remove dead and loose hairs. Bathe only when necessary as bathing can dry out the skin causing skin problems. Keep the ear canal free of excess hair and the toenails clipped. Origin: Arolos Weyr Group: Herding, hunting All references to worlds and characters based on Anne McCaffrey's fiction are copyright© Anne McCaffrey 1967,2005, all rights reserved, and used by permission of the author. The Dragonriders of Pern® is registered U.S. Patent and Trademark Office, by Anne McCaffrey, used here with permission. Use or reproduction without a license is strictly prohibited. |