History This beautiful, large cat is an old breed originating in America. It’s thought they were brought to the American shores by sailors and bred with the local native cats, resulting in the Maine Coon breed we have today. Their semi-long hair helps them stay warm in the cold winter temperatures of Maine. They were […]
History Kelpie’s are a well-known and well-loved Australian breed. They are working dogs who were originally bred to herd livestock under the hot Australian sun. They are intelligent with an independent streak. Black Collies were brought to Australia in the 1800s and cross-bred with other breeds – the result is a hardy working dog that […]
History Used to a pampered lifestyle, these little dogs were the favourite pets of European aristocrats and have a prestigious place in history. Originating in China, they were the lapdogs of Chinese Emperors. They were brought to Europe by the Dutch East India Company. Queen Victoria famously owned many pugs and also bred them. Marie […]
Ragdoll History Ann Baker selectively bred this popular cat in the 1960s. She recognised that her neighbour’s kittens born from a Persian/Angora cat and a Birman or Burmese-like cat were affectionate and relaxed. She trademarked the name Ragdoll which perfectly suits the way they go limp and floppy when picked up – just like a […]
History Staffordshire Bull Terriers were bred in the early 19th Century in the UK. Originally, these dogs were bred for betting on. Once baiting and dog fighting were made illegal in the 1830s, Staffies were taken in by miners and steelworkers, who applauded their intelligence and loyalty. They were bred with smaller terriers and were […]
Siamese Cat History The earliest record of the Siamese cat is a 19th Century Siamese manuscript. Called The Treatise on Cats, the folio contains images of different lucky and unlucky cats found in modern-day Thailand. The manuscript claims that Siamese cats were revered by Siamese Royalty. Before they spread throughout the world at the turn of […]
Labrador Retrievers are highly energetic dogs that love just about everybody. Intelligent and highly trainable, they were originally bred to bring back hunters’ game and fishermen’s nets. Now, Labradors make excellent working dogs: at airports, on farms, as guide dogs, and more. Bred for work, they love to please, play and be a part […]