Dogs of Eglemont #55

Darah arrived in style down in the Village, and instantly figured out this photography caper.

No problems like licking Mum, biting the camera or posing tail-to-camera with Darah.

The Schipperke is a small breed of dog that is believed to have originated in the 1600s in Belgium. There has been a long informal debate over whether this type of dog is a spitz or miniature sheepdog. In their home country of Belgium they are considered a small shepherd.

Kelpies' ancestral home

We have quite a few black and tan Kelpies walking around Eaglemont, supplemented by the occasional red Kelpie.

These "working" dogs are all descended from a property near Casterton, Victoria - where working dog trials are held annually.

Big prices are being asked for well-bred working dogs.

Top Working Dog Despite Blind In One Eye

Down in north-eastern Tassie there is a top sheep & cattle dog - he runs an average of 2 marathons every working day.

Despite being blind in one eye from a work injury, Earl has seen off other competitors from Australia & NZ over a 3 week test period.

Better Tracking Of Racing Greyhounds

NSW has commenced a scheme for better tracking of racing greyhounds.

Many well-intentioned attempts have been made in the past to bring more humane treatment to greyhounds bred for racing.

The fundamental problem is over-breeding of greyhounds in the quest for a genetic quirk that produces a faster dog, which then gets premium care & training.

Average dogs and slow dogs are just surplus to requirements, regarded as a cost to be eliminated.

No handicapping system to even out the racing field through weights carried (horse gallops), staggered starting positions (athletics) or a points rating system (golf) - it has been easier to dispose of the "inferior" dogs and breed more.