Appearance of the Great Cambrian Shepherd
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The Great Cambrian Shepherd is a large but agile animal. They generally weigh between 27 and 52 kilos. At maturity, the Great Cambrian Shepherd measures between 61 and 81 centimeters. It has a robust, muscular build, flat back and broad chest. Its coat is ample and comes in many combinations of black, white, red and brown, with a possible merle pattern and various markings. The coat is generally straight, thick and rough. Some Great Cambrian Shepherds are predominantly one color, usually beige or brown, due to the influence of Pyrenean Mountain Dogs. This breed also has a dense, soft undercoat, which is generally a lighter base color. Their ears are medium-sized, erect and triangular, with a slightly rounded tip. These dogs generally inherit the alert, round eyes and tapered muzzle of the Welsh Shepherd Dog. |
Temperament of the Great Cambrian Shepherd
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The temperament of this hybrid depends on the behavioral traits inherited from the two parent breeds, with some more closely resembling Pyrenean Mountain Dogs and others more closely resembling Welsh Shepherd Dogs. In general, however, the Great Cambrian Shepherd is known to be a host of paradoxes. It is active yet calm, alert yet patient, and playful yet reserved. These seemingly contradictory traits make the Great Cambrian Shepherd a good companion dog for families who like variety. This breed may, however, be wary of strangers at first. However, once the Great Cambrian Shepherd warms up, it can be very friendly with those outside its immediate circle. This dog generally gets along with other animals and can live comfortably in a multi-pet household, due to its large size, however, it must be supervised around very small or young companions. Great Cambrian Shepherds are not an aggressive breed, but they will be vocal if they are unsure of themselves or anticipate a threat. Finally, this breed prefers to play outside in the cool rather than indoors. Indoors, they prefer to lounge around the house with family members or other pets. |
Needs and activities of the Great Cambrian Shepherd
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Great Cambrian Shepherds have plenty of energy and need daily exercise to stay healthy. This breed prefers long walks and hikes in cool conditions with their owners. In fact, the Great Cambrian Shepherd thrives in colder climates due to its thick coat. Depending on the dog's individual personality, it may even enjoy the occasional romp in the dog park. If a Great Cambrian Shepherd inherits the playful side of the Welsh Shepherd Dog, it may also try to play inside the house, Pyrenean Mountain Dogs don't tend to do so. Beyond that, he loves to rest indoors and spend time with family members. Because of their size, Great Cambrian Shepherds need plenty of space, both indoors and out, and are best suited to large homes in suburban or rural areas. |
Maintenance of the Great Cambrian Shepherd
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Great Cambrian Shepherds are constantly moulting, especially as the seasons change. Regular brushing, every two weeks or so, with a pin or smoother brush can control shedding to some extent. However, brushing is also necessary to remove the inevitable mats and tangles in this dog's long, full coat. Great Cambrian Shepherds need a monthly bath, but should have their teeth brushed daily and their nails trimmed once or twice a month. Owners may also consider using a dental rinse in their dog's water to help prevent dental and gum infections. Beyond that, Great Cambrian Shepherds should also have their ears checked regularly for wax or moisture build-up. |