Volunteering at the shelter while doing my thesis has been both incredibly rewarding and constantly entertaining. The promise of a low-cost adoption brings in all types, and I can't remember an afternoon spent there without at least one good laugh. One of my favorite pastimes is recounting the various dog breeds people invent when calling or visiting the shelter with the employees and other volunteers. Sometimes it's just a simple mispronunciation of a foreign breed, but sometimes people really get creative. What follows is a list of the ones I can remember, paired with their ACTUAL breed names and a picture, so we can laugh and learn.
1. Shissoo, aka Shih Tzu
EVERYONE wants Shih Tzus. They are probably the most requested dog, along with Chihuahuas. For some reason, people don't mispronounce that one.
2. Rockweiler, aka Rottweiler
I would imagine a Rockweiler enjoys Aerosmith and ripped jeans.
3. Lapsa Apsa, aka Lhasa Apso
Not many people come in asking for these, most likely because they assume it's a Shih Tzu.
4. Pibble, aka Pit Bull
Pittie pups are the most common dogs in New York City shelters. They are fantastic dogs, but not really made for the city lifestyle. Sadly, most people either come in asking for Pits for the wrong reasons, or specifically say they would NEVER want one. Poor, maligned breed.
5. Thoroughbred, aka Purebred (any breed...)
Yes folks, a thoroughbred is a horse. A purebred dog is one of pure lineage. The two terms are not interchangeable.
And my personal favorite, heard only a few hours ago:
6. Charles Henry Dog, aka Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
She knew there were multiple words in the name, one of which was Charles. That was about all she got right. I had to keep from laughing in her face.
If anything, these past 6 months have been a lesson in self control. People don't appreciate it when you mock their lack of knowledge. Then again, not everyone spends their spare time reading breed books and researching them on wikipedia. I admit. I'm a loser.
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