Ganaraskans are small dogs that originated in Canada where they were commonly used as therapy and companion dogs. This is a fairly new breed, and as such, it has not been recognized by any major kennel clubs (as of 2014). Currently, the only known nicknames for Ganaraskans are Gannys and Ganaraskan Terriers. Ganaraskans were developed in the late 1970s and early 1980s. They were named after the Ganaraska River in Ontario where the dogs were most commonly found. Originally, Ganaraskans were developed for the sole purpose of becoming therapy dogs. However, as their popularity increased, they also became popular family pets and companions. They were created by crossing Poodles, Miniature Schnauzers, Bichon Frises and English Cocker Spaniels. Through careful breeding, many breeders claim that they have been breeding true Gannys for the past 19 years (as of 2014). While the breed is not currently recognized by the Canadian Kennel Club, the Canadian Ganaraskan Breeders Association Maintains records of true Gannys.
Ganaraskans are small dogs that can weigh anywhere between 16 and 18 pounds full grown. They typically have medium-length to long hair that can be wavy or curly. Some of the most common colors for Ganaraskans include apricot, cream, white, black, red, orange, brown, black and tan, and parti-colors. The eyes of the Ganny should be round, bright and dark in color, and the nose should be black. The ears are small to medium-length and hang forward to just above or below the cheeks. While some of these dogs are a bit tall, others are short. Additionally, some Gannys have a long, slightly curved tail while others have a tail that curls tightly over the back. The Ganaraskan is a relatively new breed that was developed on the foundations of the Miniature Schnauzer, English Cocker Spaniels, Bichon Frise and the Poodle. The Ganny is either small or medium in size. Its face often resembles Miniature Schnauzers since they often have moustaches, eyebrows and bears. Their muzzles are relatively short. Their bodies are comparable to that of the English Cocker, with long bodies and medium-length, wavy coats. They need to be brushed regularly.
Personality
Ganaraskans are extremely gentle and loving dogs that make great companions and family pets. Although they are quite active and love to play, they enjoy spending quiet time with their humans as well. These are mild-mannered dogs that love all people and animals, even strangers. As such, they do not make good guard dogs. Are you looking for a dog that will be great with your older kids and gentle with your toddler? If so, the Ganaraskan just may be the breed for you! These dogs are all-around terrific pets that make excellent companions for people of any age. However, since this is an extremely rare breed, you may need to search a bit to find one. Ganaraskans are affectionate, sociable and friendly. They are good with children and are very playful. Although they may look small, they need plenty of exercise, especially when they are puppies. However, they can adapt to most living situations. Because of their sweet and gentle disposition, Gannies are often used as therapy dogs.
Breed Characteristics
| Type: | Mix |
| Function: | Companion |
| Origin: | Canada |
| Preferred Climate: | Moderate Cold |
| Life Span: | 11-15 Years |
| Nicknames: | Gannys, Ganaraskan Terriers |
| Hypoallergenic: | Yes |
Ganaraskan Build Information
Ganaraskans are small dogs that can weigh anywhere between 16 and 18 pounds full grown. They typically have medium-length to long hair that can be wavy or curly. Some of the most common colors for Ganaraskans include apricot, cream, white, black, red, orange, brown, black and tan, and parti-colors. The eyes of the Ganny should be round, bright and dark in color, and the nose should be black. The ears are small to medium-length and hang forward to just above or below the cheeks. While some of these dogs are a bit tall, others are short. Additionally, some Gannys have a long, slightly curved tail while others have a tail that curls tightly over the back. The Ganaraskan is a relatively new breed that was developed on the foundations of the Miniature Schnauzer, English Cocker Spaniels, Bichon Frise and the Poodle. The Ganny is either small or medium in size. Its face often resembles Miniature Schnauzers since they often have moustaches, eyebrows, and bears. Their muzzles are relatively short. Their bodies are comparable to that of the English Cocker, with long bodies and medium-length, wavy coats. They need to be brushed regularly.
| Size: | Small |
| Length (Male): | 13-20 in. |
| Length (Female): | 14-16 in. |
| Weight: | 15 – 25 lbs |
| Litter Size: | 4 – 5 Puppies |
| Tail Dock or Crop: | No |
Behaviour and Personality
Ganaraskans are extremely gentle and loving dogs that make great companions and family pets. Although they are quite active and love to play, they enjoy spending quiet time with their humans as well. These are mild-mannered dogs that love all people and animals, even strangers. As such, they do not make good guard dogs. Are you looking for a dog that will be great with your older kids and gentle with your toddler? If so, the Ganaraskan just may be the breed for you! These dogs are all-around terrific pets that make excellent companions for people of any age. However, since this is an extremely rare breed, you may need to search a bit to find one. Ganaraskans are affectionate, sociable and friendly. They are good with children and are very playful. Although they may look small, they need plenty of exercise, especially when they are puppies. However, they can adapt to most living situations. Because of their sweet and gentle disposition, Gannies are often used as therapy dogs.
| Activity Level: | Active |
| Affection Level: | Affectionate |
| Aggressiveness Level: | Easy |
| Barking: | Quiet |
| Dominating or Submissive?: | None |
| Energy Level: | Active |
| Good to Other Pets: | Friendly |
| Guardian Skills: | No |
| Independant: | Moderate |
| Kid Friendliness: | Very Friendly |
Appearance
Although most Ganaraskans do not shed much, you will need to brush your pet’s hair daily to prevent mats. If you wish, you can clip your Ganny’s hair to make it more manageable. You will also want to check your pet’s ears occasionally and trim its nails when they grow overly long.
| Colors: | Black, Black & Tan, Gold, Parti-color, Red, Sable, Silver |
| Shedding: | None |
| Grooming: | Medium Maintenance |
| Coat Type: | Curly |
Ganaraskan Common Health Conditions
There are presently no reported statistics available that list the average lifespan of a healthy Ganaraskan. However, due to its genetic makeup, a good guess would be 10 to 15 years or longer. Additionally, the breed has not been in existence long enough to determine its common health issues but the following issues are some conditions that are common to the Ganny’s ancestors: Patellar Luxation, Hip and Elbow Dysplasia, Hypoglycemia, Skin Infections and Allergies, Early Tooth Loss and Cataracts.
Ganaraskan Pet Insurance
When adding a dog or cat to your family you want to make sure your pet is happy, healthy and protected. During its lifetime your pet is exposed to many illnesses and diseases and some breeds are affected by a congenital disease which is a condition existing at birth. At these moments when your pet is ill or maybe needs surgery, you want to be protected for the unexpected and high veterinarian costs.
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Breed Talents and Facts
While Gannys love to play, they are also extremely gentle and patient making them terrific pets for small children and elderly individuals. Gannys can be quite expensive, with current prices for puppies running from $800 to as high as $2,000. Ganaraskans are considered rare and are seldom seen outside of Canada.
| Training: | Moderately easy to train |
| Hunting Companion: | No |
| Jolly for Jogging: | Yes |
| Sighting Capabilities: | No |
| Ideal for Tracking: | No |
| Retrieving Skills: | No |
| Pointing Breed: | No |
| Herding Skills: | No |
| Dutiful Watchdog: | Yes |
| Security Guard Capable: | No |
| Police Performer: | No |
| Wet Water rescues: | No |
| Assist Disable Owners: | Yes |
| Dog Sledding: | No |
| Able to Perform Dog Carting: | No |
| Agile/Zippy: | No |
| Fun with Lure Coursing: | No |
| Obedient: | Yes |
| Possible Schutzhund Work: | No |
| Trainable for Tricks: | Yes |
