Cole and I keep a list of the different breeds of dogs that have camped with us over the years. Last night we updated our book and reminisced about some of our odder Happy Campers.

Sybil was our first and only Xoloitzcuintli. Her family moved to Portland, Oregon and we were sad to see Sybil leave with them. Xoloitzcuntle is pronounced “show-low-its-queen-tlee”, you can also call a Xoloitzcuintlie a Mexican Hairless or even a “Xolo” for short. Xolo’s were considered sacred by the Aztecs as they were believed to help guide individuals through the underworld after their death.

Alvarez, a Peruvian Inca Orchid visits camp from time to time. This ancient breed appears in art dating back to 750 A.D. However when Peru was conquered by the Spanish, it almost led to the loss of these unique dogs. Alvarez does not leave home without his warm coat.

When Pledge the Komondor and his family moved to New York, I was heart broken.  Although Komondors are often distrustful of strangers, we bonded on sight. Pledge (yes, that was his real name) was quick, agile, and very fast. The Komondor originating in Hungary were bread to guard the Racka sheep. Racka sheep closely resemble the Komondor, allowing these dogs to blend in with the flocks they protected. So skilled was the Komondor at protecting sheep from wild animals that it is believed by some to have eliminated the wolf in Hungary.

BaBa, a Bedlington Terrier camped with us once. His owner also owned a Border Collie and wanted to teach his boarder collie to herd. BaBa’s owner was odd. He only brought Ba Ba to camp once but when he did, he brought an Automatic Dog Ball Launcher and it was the hit of the dog party. Frankly, I was relieved that there was such good entertainment. Bedlington Terriers with their pear-shaped heads, curly sheep-like fur and triangular ears, are truly a unique breed.

Flavio’s owner made me laugh when she described him over the phone as her mini rhino. He was only 6 months old when he camped with us  and was a mess of wrinkles. An ancient breed, the Neapolitan Mastiff lineage can be traced back to ancient Egypt, Persia, Mesopotamia and Asia – to the dogs of war used by the Roman army. The breed later existed on estates and farms in northern Italy, designed to be imposing in appearance for use as a defender of owner and property. Unfortunately, Flavio’s life was cut short by health problems.

It’s always a treat to enjoy the company of a unique breed of dog at camp. These Odd campers belong to families able to give them the grooming and extra care they need-with the exception perhaps of Mr. Baba who thought his Bedlington Terrier really was a sheep.

Its true, there is a breed of dog for everyone.

Glad you were in my Odd neighborhood. Feel free to hang around with us any time. Odd Loves Company and odd loves you and you and you!! I would love to hear from you in the comment section of this blog, or on Facebook or Twitter!