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Turnspit Dog Information & Dog Breed Facts

Collection of all the general dog breed info about Turnspit Dog so you can get to know the breed more.

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Turnspit Dog dog profile picture
OriginEngland flagEngland
Other Names
What other names does the Turnspit Dog have?
The Cooking DogThe UnderdogThe VernepatorTurnespeteKitchen Dog
Breed Type
What type of dog breed is it?
Purebred

Turnspit Dog Size and Weight

Size
Is a Turnspit Dog small, medium or large dog?

How big do Turnspit Dog get?

What is the average size of a Turnspit Dog?

LargeMedium
Weight
How much does the Turnspit Dog weigh? How much should a Turnspit Dog weight? What is the normal weight of a Turnspit Dog? How much does a full-grown Turnspit Dog weight?
Male: 30-45 pounds (14-20 kg), Female: 30-40 pounds (14-18 kg)
Average Weight
What is the average weight of a Turnspit Dog?
Male: 37.5 pounds (17 kg), Female: 35 pounds (16 kg)
Height
How tall is the Turnspit Dog? Turnspit Dog height:
Male: 15-17 inches (38-43 cm), Female: 14-16 inches (36-41 cm)
Average Height
What is the average height of a Turnspit Dog?
Male: 16 inches (40.5 cm), Female: 15 inches (38.5 cm)

Turnspit Dog Price and Availability

Price
How much does the Turnspit Dog puppy cost? What is the price range of this puppy? What is the average price of a Turnspit Dog in the United States? How much money is a Turnspit Dog?

Where to buy a Turnspit Dog with a good pedigree?

Unavailable
Unfortunately the Turnspit Dog is an extinct dog breed, so there isn’t any available price range or breeder in the world for purchasing this breed.
Availability
How easy is it to get a Turnspit Dog? How many Turnspit Dog are there in the world?
Unavailable: This dog breed, unfortunately, is no longer available, it may even be extinct.

Turnspit Dog Trainability and Intelligence

Intelligent Rank
How smart is the Turnspit Dog? Is the Turnspit Dog breed dumb or smart?
Average: It takes patience to teach this breed any tricks or commands, but the effort is worth it. They understand and remember new commands after an average of 25-40 repetitions.

The Turnspit Dog ranks average in the intelligence ranking of dogs.

Trainability
Are Turnspit Dog dogs easy to train? Do they go well on dog training? How hard is it to train a Turnspit Dog?
Turnspit Dog dogs are quite easy to train. Sometimes they can be challenging, but if you're consistent in teaching new commands they will obey for sure.
Watchdog Ability
Is Turnspit Dog good as a watchdog? Are they alert at night?
Turnspit Dog dogs are good watchdogs. Their main job is to observe and they're consistent in their effort. Good vocal cords and a sense of hearing belong to them. Usually, they're territorial and protective about their property, so the Turnspit Dog dogs will alert you if they sense something different.
Guarding Behavior / Territorial
Do Turnspit Dog dogs have aggressive behavior to protect their home/house/territory? Do they have guarding instincts?
Turnspit Dog dogs are average defenders. Some dogs are very protective of their territory, while others easily let a stranger to trespass. This breed is not sure to defend its territory in every situation.
Turnspit Dog dogs strongly protect their territory. This breed is a complete security guard, so you don't have to be afraid in case of danger.

Turnspit Dog Personality and Temperament

Temperament
What kind of personality does the Turnspit Dog have? What characteristics or traits does the breed have?
ActiveAlertAffectionateDevoted
Sensitivity Level
How sensitive are they? Turnspit Dog sensitivity:
They are a little bit more sensitive than other dog breeds. Soft punishment affects them emotionally. Turnspit Dog dogs don't tolerate irregular daily routines, noisy households, and frequent guest visits really well.

They are receptive to their owner's emotions and make wonderful family companions.

Affection Level
How affectionate are they? Is a Turnspit Dog a good family dog?
High: Turnspit Dog dogs are genuinely loyal, soft and gentle, loving, and affectionate dogs toward their handlers. They enjoy quality time with their owners despite the activity and are considered great therapy dogs for those in need. This breed responds strongly to their handler's emotions because they bond closely. Their happiness is your happiness.
Social Needs
How much social interaction does the The Cooking Dog need? Turnspit Dog social needs:
Turnspit Dog dogs need for social interaction is average. This breed likes being around people or other animals, but they don't mind being left alone for a few hours either.
Impulse to Wander or Roam
How likely is the Turnspit Dog to run away? Does this breed explore or wander a lot? Does Turnspit Dog roam?
Turnspit Dog dogs have average wanderlust potential. Sometimes they like to explore the world and they might escape once or twice, but usually, they prefer staying safely at home. Safer to teach them how to get back to you on command.
Prey Drive
Do this canine have a strong prey drive? Does Turnspit Dog have high prey drive?
Turnspit Dog dogs have a higher impulse to chase and catch something than other dog breeds. Cats or any other small animals might be in danger. It's a natural instinct, doesn't necessarily mean that Turnspit Dog dogs are aggressive. Better to keep this breed on a leash.

Turnspit Dog Activity and Playfulness

Playfulness
How playful is this breed?
The Turnspit Dog is a playful breed. Excited barking and sometimes nipping will alert you to play.
Barking
Do Turnspit Dog dogs bark a lot? Are they barkers/noisy? Why does my The Cooking Dog bark?
Average: The Turnspit Dog barks occasionally. They can change their barks depending on their emotional level and what they're trying to say. Different barks could mean the same and the same barks could have different meanings.

Top reasons for barking: protection, alarm, fear, boredom, attention-seeking, greeting, separation anxiety, compulsive barking.

Apartment Friendly
Is Turnspit Dog good as an apartment dog? Can they live in a flat? Can you have a Turnspit Dog in an apartment?
Apartment-friendly dog the Turnspit Dog breed. It is best if you have a small garden where it can occasionally go out to do its business, but this is not important at all. You can exercise him enough with a walk or two a day, so he's comfortable in an apartment.

Turnspit Dog Adaptability and Independence

Adaptability
Are they adaptable and easy-going?
Turnspit Dog dogs adapt very well to lifestyle changes and basically all living environments. They don't mind moving from one place to another with their owner.
Tolerates Being Left Alone
How long can a Turnspit Dog be left alone? How long can you leave a Turnspit Dog alone?
Just like every puppy, they are prone to panic, cry, bark, whine when they left alone by their owner. With proper socialization and quality time with the dog can solve this problem.

Turnspit Dog Bite Characteristics

Bite Force PSI
Does the Turnspit Dog has a hard bite? What is the bite force of a Turnspit Dog? How much bite force does a Turnspit Dog have? How strong is a Turnspit Dog bite?

Between 200 and 400 PSI

Turnspit Dog bite force: Ordinary. Bite force Turnspit Dog measurements typically fall within the range of 200 to 400 PSI. The bite force of a Turnspit Dog is considered ordinary when compared to other dog breeds, but it is still quite powerful. This Turnspit Dog bite force PSI can cause bite wounds. Turnspit Dog bite PSI is not something that should be feared if the dog is well-trained and managed. To avoid any issues, it's essential to learn how to train a Turnspit Dog puppy not to bite from an early age.

The Turnspit Dog, and many others, have a fearsome presence because they have significant jaw strength, so it is important not to anger the dog and have it around strangers until it is fully trained.

However, they are usually quite calm and good companions, they work well in families and are easy to care for.

In conclusion, while the Turnspit Dog bite force is certainly an interesting aspect of the breed, it is important not to let it overshadow the many other reasons why these dogs are so loved and respected. With proper training and socialization, a Turnspit Dog can be a loyal and protective companion for your family.

Biting Potential
Do Turnspit Dog bite humans? How likely are you to get bitten from the The Cooking Dog? What are the odds of getting bitten by a Turnspit Dog? Why do dog bites happen?

Low 🔽

The Turnspit Dog has a low chance of biting somebody. Top reasons for dog bite: protection, pain, excitement, herding instinct, being provoked. (Data based on the available online bite statistics.)
Mouthiness
How much mouthing/nipping/play biting does the Turnspit Dog do?
Turnspit Dog dogs have a lower than average tendency to nip, chew, playbite, or herd people. It's a common habit during puppyhood, not aggressive behavior. These "bites" don't hurt, but Turnspit Dog dogs need to be taught a good attitude.

Turnspit Dog Health and Lifespan

Health Issues
Is it a healthy or unhealthy breed? Do Turnspit Dog dogs have health problems or genetic diseases?
The Turnspit Dog is a healthy breed, but there are certain health issues that you should check with your vet regularly.
Veterinarian Visits
How often does the Turnspit Dog breed need to go to the vet? How often should you take your dog to the vet? How often should the Turnspit Dog see the vet?
Average
The Turnspit Dog should have a complete physical check-up at least once per year. If your dog shows any symptoms, call your veterinarian.
Life Expectancy
How long do Turnspit Dog dogs live? How old can a Turnspit Dog be? What is the age limit of the Turnspit Dog? How many years can the oldest Turnspit Dog live?

What is the average life expectancy / lifespan of a Turnspit Dog?

How long is the lifespan of a Turnspit Dog?

10-12 years
The average lifespan of Turnspit Dog: 11 years
Weather and Climate
Which weather condition is preferred by this dog? Can they tolerate hot or cold weather and climate?
Prefers average to cold weather conditions
The Turnspit Dog can adapt to well to cold weather conditions, some dogs even can be a good mountain dog.

Turnspit Dog Energy and Activity

Energy Level
How much energy does the Turnspit Dog have? What is the activity level of the Turnspit Dog?
Turnspit Dog dogs have an average energy level, so if you live a semi-active life, this breed can be a good choice for you.
Activity Requirement / Exercise Need
How much exercise does a Turnspit Dog need? How much exercise do Turnspit Dog dogs require per day?

Do Turnspit Dog dogs need a lot of exercises?

Turnspit Dog dogs need quite a lot of exercise. Daily walks should be on schedule. If you live an active life, this breed can be a good choice for you.
Sleeping Need
How much sleep does the Turnspit Dog breed need?
Turnspit Dog dogs sleep 12-14 hours a day as an average dog and they're not considered a lazy breed.

Turnspit Dog Diet and Weight Management

Average daily food consumption
How much food does a Turnspit Dog need? What dog products should I buy? How much food does a Turnspit Dog breed eat per day? What is good dog food for Turnspit Dog? How much food should I feed my Turnspit Dog?
1 to 2 cups of high-quality dry food a day, divided into two meals.
Weight Gain Potential / Prone to Obesity
How easy to gain weight for this dog? Turnspit Dog risk for obesity:
Average to High: If you don't pay attention to the Turnspit Dog's weight, he can easily gain weight. More than one daily walk should be on schedule. To make your dog happy and fit, feed him with quality dry dog food and live an active life together. Try to find the happy medium between exercise and feeding.

If you notice any weight gain, consult your veterinarian and make a diet plan. Reduce unhealthy food and snacks, and measure the Turnspit Dog weight regularly.

Turnspit Dog Allergies and Grooming

Coat / Hair Types
What type of coat does the Turnspit Dog have? What does this canine coat/fur look like?
FineSmooth
Colors
What color is the breed's coat? What color are proper Turnspit Dog coats?
Black Grey
Grooming
How to groom the Turnspit Dog and how often? How often should I take my Turnspit Dog to the groomer?
Average: The Turnspit Dog requires average grooming effort. Cutting the dog's hair by a professional groomer isn't essential.

Brushing the dog's coat is useful to reduce shedding. Ears and eyes should be cleaned regularly to avoid infections.

Don't skip the seasonal flea treatment too. Dog nail trimming and dog bath can be helpful sometimes.

Check the local pet store for dog grooming supplies and find the best dog shampoo to keep its coat healthy and give your dog a pleasant experience of a dog bath.

If you don't have the time, skill, or money to take care of your Turnspit Dog, search for a dog groomer or clipping service in your area and book an appointment.

Maybe you're lucky to have a dog boarding service that includes grooming or walk-in dog bath places nearby.

Shedding Level
How much do Turnspit Dog dogs shed? How to control, reduce and prevent the shedding of the The Cooking Dog? Do Turnspit Dog dogs shed a lot?
Turnspit Dog dogs shed above average. It's a natural process of the hair growth cycle. The amount and frequency of hair loss mostly depend on their health status and breed type. If you don't like vacuum cleaning, you might have to reconsider your choice of having a puppy from the Turnspit Dog breed.
Bath Time / Bathing Frequency
How often does the Turnspit Dog need a bath? How often should you give a Turnspit Dog a bath? Can I bathe my Turnspit Dog every day?
3-4 weeks
More often than average. These dog coats tend to be longer, softer, and oilier than short-haired breeds. While a good bath every now and then is a great way to keep your buddy from becoming overly smelly, be mindful about overbathing.

Bathing will wash away your dog’s natural oils, while a simple brushing every few days should keep them clean.

Hypoallergenic
Is the Turnspit Dog breed hypoallergenic?
No
Turnspit Dog dogs don't do well with allergy sufferers by causing allergic reactions. Some dog breeds are even considered to higher possibility of an allergic response. Coat type isn't necessarily relevant, because most people are allergic to dander (flakes on the dog's skin) or saliva, not actually to dog hair.
Stinkiness
How stinky is this dog? Why does it smell bad and how to get rid of the smell?

Low 🔽

The Turnspit Dog has a low chance of bad smell. Top reasons for dog stinkiness: infection of bad tooth/ear/skin folds, gas attacks.
Drooling Tendency
Does the Turnspit Dog drool?
The Turnspit Dog is a perfect example of a very low drooling tendency. If you're disgusted by slobber spots on your clothes, the Turnspit Dog could be a perfect choice for you. Drooling is the unintentional saliva flowing outside of the mouth. It can be completely normal or a sign of a health problem. Certain dog breeds drool minimum compared to others, just like the Turnspit Dog.

If you notice any change in your dog's drooling habit, you should contact a vet as soon as possible.

Turnspit Dog Good With

Pet Friendly
Are they pet-friendly dogs? How well do Turnspit Dog dogs get along with other pets? Are Turnspit Dog dogs good with pets? What is this canine temperament with other pets?
Turnspit Dog dogs are usually friendly towards other pets.
Stranger Friendly
Are they aggressive or friendly towards/with strangers? Turnspit Dog temperament with other people:
Turnspit Dog dogs are average friendly towards strangers.
Child Friendly
Are Turnspit Dog dogs kid-friendly? Are they good with young children? Turnspit Dog temperament with children:
Turnspit Dog dogs are kid-friendly dogs. This breed is a good choice if you have children.
Cat Friendly
How well do Turnspit Dog dogs get along with cats? Are they good with kittens? What is this fido's temperament with cats? Can they be good with cats? Can the Turnspit Dog breed live with a cat?
Turnspit Dog dogs are cat-friendly dogs.
Dog Friendly
Is Turnspit Dog good with other dogs? Are they dog-friendly dogs? How well do Turnspit Dog dogs get along with other dogs?
Turnspit Dog dogs are average friendly towards other dogs.
Good For First Time Owners
Is Turnspit Dog breed good for first-time owners? Do they make a good dog for novice owners? Is Turnspit Dog breed suitable for first-time owners?
Yes
Turnspit Dog dogs are good for novice owners, due to their easy-going personality.
Office Friendly
Are Turnspit Dog dogs good office canines? Do Turnspit Dog dogs make good office-friendly pets? Can they be office dogs?
No
Turnspit Dog is not the best dog breed for office environment.
Senior Citizens Friendly
Are they senior citizens friendly dogs? How well do Turnspit Dog dogs get along with the elderly people? What is the The Cooking Dog temperament with senior people? Are Turnspit Dog dogs good for elderly owners?
Turnspit Dogs are usually recommended for elderly people.

Turnspit Dog As a Working Dog

Service Dog
Are they good as service dogs? Can Turnspit Dog be a guide dog? Are they used as seeing-eye dogs?

Not really

This breed generally not used as a service dog. A service dog is a term used in the USA to refer to any type of assistance dog specifically trained to help people who have disabilities, such as visual impairment, hearing impairments, mental disorders, seizures, mobility impairment, and diabetes. Service dogs are protected under the ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act).

Turnspit Dog is not the best breed for service purposes.

Therapy Dog
Are they good as therapy dogs? Can Turnspit Dog be a therapy dog? Are they good anxiety dogs? Can a Turnspit Dog be an emotional support animal?

Not really

This breed is generally not used as a therapy dog. A therapy dog is a dog that might be trained to provide affection, comfort, and love to people in hospitals, retirement homes, nursing homes, schools, hospices, disaster areas, and people with anxiety disorders or autism.

Turnspit Dog is not the best breed for therapeutic purposes.

Detection Dog or Sniffer Dog
Are they good as detection dogs? Can Turnspit Dog be a sniffer dog?

Not really

They are not typically employed for this type of work, but there may be exceptional cases. A detection dog or sniffer dog is a dog that is trained to use its senses (mostly its smell) to detect substances such as explosives, illegal drugs, wildlife scat, currency, blood, and contraband electronics such as illicit mobile phones.

Turnspit Dog is not the best breed for detection purposes.

Search and Rescue Dog (SAR)
Are they good as SAR dogs? Can Turnspit Dog be a search and rescue dog?

Not really

This dog breed is not typically used as a search and rescue dog. The use of dogs in search and rescue (SAR) is a valuable component in wilderness tracking, natural disasters, mass casualty events, and locating missing people.

The Turnspit Dog is not the best breed for SAR purposes.

Boat and Sailor Dog
Are they good as boat dogs? Can Turnspit Dog be a boat dog?

Not really

Turnspit Dog breed usually doesn't like being on a boat.

Boat dogs were typically bred for their strength, stamina, and water resistance, as they were often required to perform tasks such as pulling in fishing nets, and jumping into the water to retrieve ropes or lines, or helping to move cargo.

Sailor dog is a type of dog that was bred to accompany sailors on their voyages. They were typically used for three purposes: as a working dog, a watchdog, and as a companion. A boat dog is a term used to describe a type of dog that was traditionally bred and used as a working dog on boats.

Cart Pulling or Drafting Dog
Are they good as cart pulling dogs? Can Turnspit Dog be a drafting dog?

Not really

A drafting dog or draft dog is a dog bred and used for cart pulling. Dogs bred for this work have strong builds and qualities that are needed, strength and determination.

Turnspit Dog is not the best breed for drafting purposes.

Fighting Dog / Military Dog
Where Turnspit Dog dogs used as fighting / military dogs in history?

Not really

In history, this breed was not really used for combat dog.

Turnspit Dog Reproducibility

Gestation Length
How long is a Turnspit Dog pregnant?How long does it take to have puppies? How to tell if the Turnspit Dog breed is pregnant?

60-64 days

Reproductive cycle of the female Turnspit Dog: The first period called Proestrus lasts for about 9 days.

During this time the females start to attract males. You can notice by swelling vulva and bloody discharge.

The second part is the Estrus when the female is receptive for the male. It lasts for about 3 to 11 days.

The sign of the proestrus part is the soft and enlarged vulva. The discharge decreases and lightens in color.

The third part is the Diestrus. Normally, it occurs around day 14. In this period the female’s discharge changes for vivid red and coming to its end. The vulva returns to average, and she will no longer permit mating.

The fourth part called the Anestrus. The time frame between heat periods normally lasts about six months.

Litter Frequency

Once a year.

More frequent breeding is not healthy. It is very important not to buy a dog from a puppy mill, where the needs of the pups and their mothers are ignored. It's an inhumane high-volume dog breeding facility, where puppies born several times a year.
Litter Size
How many puppies can the Turnspit Dog have in a litter? How many puppies can the Turnspit Dog breed have for the first time? How many puppies does a Turnspit Dog have? How many puppies can a Turnspit Dog give birth to?
4-7 puppies

Turnspit Dog Recognition

AKC Group
Is Turnspit Dog recognized by the American Kennel Club?
Not recognized by the American Kennel Club.
FCI Group
Is Turnspit Dog recognized by the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI)?
Not recognized by FCI.

Turnspit Dog Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Apartment Friendly: Apartment-friendly dog the Turnspit Dog breed.
  • Drooling Tendency: The Turnspit Dog is a perfect example of a very low drooling tendency.
  • Stinkiness: The Turnspit Dog has a low chance of bad smell.
  • Watchdog Ability: Turnspit Dog dogs are good watchdogs.
  • Mouthiness: Turnspit Dog dogs have a lower than average tendency to nip, chew, playbite, or herd people.
  • Adaptability: Turnspit Dog dogs adapt very well to lifestyle changes and basically all living environments.
  • Child Friendly: Turnspit Dog dogs are kid-friendly dogs.
  • Cat Friendly: Turnspit Dog dogs are cat-friendly dogs.
  • Senior Citizens Friendly: Turnspit Dogs are usually recommended for elderly people.
  • Good For First Time Owners: Turnspit Dog dogs are good for novice owners, due to their easy-going personality.
Cons
  • Hypoallergenic: Turnspit Dog dogs don't do well with allergy sufferers by causing allergic reactions.
  • Shedding Level: Turnspit Dog dogs shed above average.
  • Weight Gain Potential / Prone to Obesity: Average to High: If you don't pay attention to the Turnspit Dog's weight, he can easily gain weight.
  • Office Friendly: Turnspit Dog is not the best dog breed for office environment.

Turnspit Dog History

The Turnspit was a small to medium-sized dog breed with short legs and a long body that was covered with a short rough coat. However, unfortunately, the breed did not have a fun life like some other breeds. It was bred for a specific purpose which is to run on the wheel in the kitchen to cook meat on a spit, hence its name Turnspit. The breed was popular in England, and to a lesser extent, America from the 16th century to the end of the 19th century.

Other breeds like herding dogs and hunting dogs had enjoyable life chasing games, herding animals, running in the field, etc. but the Turnspit Dogs were forced to be in the smoky kitchen for hours running the wheel. They were used mostly in bars and large kitchens, the dogs were forced to walk for hours in specifically designed wheels that powered a variety of kitchen appliances from fruit presses to butter churns. It is also believed by the experts that the owners of the breed occasionally toss some hot coal in the wheel to make it run faster. Evidence can be found in several documents as well, which shows that the Turnspit Dog was seen more as kitchen utensils than as a dog, which is sad. The first mention came in 1576 in a book called “Of Englishe Dogs” by John Caius and in a short explanation, he offers one of the only glimpses of the breed. It was the most grueling task that gave them their name: turning meat on a spit, over an open fire. This wheel would usually be mounted high off the floor, with closed sides to prevent the dog from escaping. In the wheel, the dogs would have to walk for hours on end. Chefs and owners used a variety of wicked methods to make sure that the dogs never stopped. Moreover, the dogs were often brought to church to be used as foot warmers. During one Sunday service, the preacher told the story of Ezekiel and the wheel in the sky. At the third mention of the world ‘wheel’, all the dogs bolted for the door.

They were widely found in the 1750s and 1850s and slowly began to be rare as spit-turning machines were invented. By the 20th century, which marked the rise of accessible electricity, the Turnspit Dogs completely disappeared. As they were considered gloomy dogs, nobody wanted to keep them as a pet.

Rate The Turnspit Dog Breed

Turnspit Dog Comments, Reviews and Questions

  • Luka Videos

    Mar 10, 2023, 2:10:29 PM:

    They are cute and there is only one in a museum