When we met Cupcake we were informed of a guess that she was a “Spaniel mix.” Of course everyone asks us what type of dog, so we’ve been trying to guess our own answer. Here is where I am so far — which may be far from accurate. We don’t plan any DNA testing to figure this out, but your input is more than welcome.
Based on size, behavior and coloring, my best amateurish statement is that she is a Pyrenean Sheepdog and Brittany mix. Cupcake seems to have many body and behavior similarities with the Pyrenean Sheepdog but with coloring (especially the giraffe spotting on the legs) of a Brittany. The Brittany is actually a Brittany Spaniel which would correlate with what we were told. Here are links to some pictures of these two breeds for you to study.
Pyrenean Sheepdog
Brittany Spaniel
As I look more I become more convinced she is a Pyrenean Shepherd dog. One aspect not in favor of my Pyrenean guess is that they are not very common, but either is our little assumed hybrid. You may also notice if you surf around that many Pyrenean Shepherds have longer coats which had me confused. It turns out that there is a smooth-faced Pyrenean with a shorter coat but it is still longer than that of Cupcake. Looking closer you’ll notice a Pyrenean page that includes puppy pictures in which the longer adult coat was not to be found. Check out the Harley link above and scroll down to the 4 month old photograph. Except for coloring it is a pretty close match for Cupcake. Harley even has a couple spots on those paws. Here are some more supporting images of my now jaded perspective.
Really not sure what Cupcake is, except that she is cute and a joy.
12/31/2007 Today had another person think Cupcake might be part Blue Heeler (Australian Cattle dog) and maybe Springer Spaniel. It is possible, I can see where they are coming from but size is an issue unless Cupcake is getting bigger than we think. While looking up Blue Heeler I ran across Australian Shepherd dogs which have some similarities with Pyrenean Shepherd dogs. Here are a couple links to images:
- ASCA (no longer available)
- AKC (no longer available)
12/22/2008
It would help if there were some up to date shots. Here is a picture of Cupcake checking these out in the snow. Note that grown up she now has a tail brush (not sure if that is what it is called) and the fur on the hind legs gets quite long also.
Shirley worked with the second grade again this year on their art project for the annual auction. This year it was art panels with the kids’ depiction of a home. There was also a separate individual panel with art of their choice.
