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Labrador Retriever
The gentle, intelligent and family-friendly Labrador Retriever from Canada continues to be the most popular breed in the United States, according to AKC registration statistics. This versatile hunting breed comes in three colors yellow, black and chocolate and because of his aptitude to please his master, they excel as guide dogs for the blind, as part of search-and-rescue teams or in narcotics detection with law enforcement.
History
Labrador Retrievers, originally from Newfoundland, were initially used in work alongside fishermen, helping to pull in nets and catch fish that escaped from fishing lines. After being crossed with Setters, Spaniels and other Retrievers, the Labrador Retriever honed its skills as a true retriever. They have a stable temperament suitable for a variety of activities beyond hunting.
Temperament
An ideal sporting and family dog, the Labrador Retriever thrives as part of an active family or as a trusted hunting companion. A double-coated breed which sheds seasonally, regular grooming keeps his coat at its water-resistant best. Because of his even temperament and trainability, millions of Americans own a Labrador Retriever as a pet. The Labrador Retriever is fantastic with children and other dogs. They are extremely intelligent and therefore housebreak very easily. The lab trains best with positive reinforcement. You should train with treats for the most effectiveness. Petland carries many different types of soft treats for both puppies and adults. You need to make sure everyone in your household knows how to follow up with the correct training techniques.
- Sporting Group; AKC recognized in 1917.
- Average size: from 55 to 75 pounds
- Outgoing and devoted companions; Water dog
Environment
- Apartment is ok.
- Low activity indoors.
- Loves a large yard.
Exercise
- Daily moderate exercise.
- Loves to play and train.
Grooming
- Easy care.
- Regular brushing.
- Average shedding.
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Chow Chow
A powerful, sturdy dog of Arctic type, medium in size and muscular with heavy bone, the Chow Chow is an ancient breed of northern Chinese origin. While the breed was originally a working dog, he primarily serves as a companion today and is seen in show rings across the country. This lion-like, regal breed comes in five colors – red, black, blue, cinnamon and cream – and is known for its blue/black tongue and stilted gait. Their coats can also be either rough or smooth.
History
The true origin of the Chow is unknown, but the breed as it is known today is easily recognizable in pottery and sculptures of the Chinese Han Dynasty (206 B.C. to 22 A.D.). An all-purpose dog used for hunting, herding, pulling and protection of the home, some scholars claim the Chow was the original ancestor of the Samoyed, Norwegian Elkhound, Pomeranian and Keeshond.
Temperment
Affectionate and devoted to family, the Chow is reserved and discerning with strangers. Their cat-like personalities make them independent, stubborn and less eager to please than other breeds. They require early socialization and training, and some kind of exercise daily. Regular grooming and bathing is a must to maintain their double coats.
- Non-Sporting Group; AKC recognized in 1903.
- Ranging in size from 17 to 20 inches tall at the shoulder.
- Hunter; guard dog.
Environment
- Apartment is ok.
- Low activity indoors.
- Be careful in hot climates.
Exercise
- Daily short walk is fine.
Grooming
- Regular thorough brushing.
- Heavy shedding.
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Border Collie
The workaholic of the dog world, the Border Collie is the world's premier sheep herder, prized for its intelligence, extraordinary instinct and working ability. Medium-sized and athletic, the breed controls stock with stalking movement and an intense gaze known as “eye.” The Border Collie coat can be rough or smooth and includes any color in bi-color, tri-color, merle, sable, or solid patterns.
History
In the border country between Scotland and England, Border Collies (first classified as the “Scotch Sheep Dog”) were invaluable to shepherds by allowing them to maintain large flocks of sheep. The breed as we know it today has been around for more than 100 years. In the second half of the 19th century, Queen Victoria spotted a Border Collie and became an active enthusiast. At this point, the divergence between our modern Collie and the Border Collie began.
Temperament
This high-drive breed is extremely energetic and requires exercise beyond just a walk around the block or a romp in the yard. They thrive when they have a job to do and space to run. Due to their tendency to herd objects and people, they do best with mature, well-behaved children. They love their families, but maybe somewhat reserved with strangers. They are seasonal shedders and require regular brushing.
- Herding Group; AKC recognized in 1995.
- Ranging in size from 18 to 22 inches tall at the shoulder.
- Sheepherder.
Environment
- Apartment? Not so much.
- Highly active indoors.
- Love acreage.
Exercise
- Lots of exercise.
- Love to learn and train.
- Must stay active.
Grooming
- Regular brushing and combing.
- Average shedding.
- Infrequent bathing.
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Boxer
The well-conditioned middleweight athlete of dogdom, the Boxer is a powerful dog with an intelligent and alert expression. While they are instinctive guardians, the Boxer loves to be with his people. This personality has allowed them to succeed as couriers during wartime and as seeing-eye dogs for the blind. Appearing in both fawn and brindle colors, the Boxer currently ranks as one of the most popular dogs in the United States according to AKC Registration Statistics.
History
Developed in Germany in the 19th century, Boxers were originally used for dog fighting and to run down and hold large game such as wild boar and bison until the hunter could arrive. The breed is known for standing up on its hind legs and batting at its opponent, appearing to box with its front paws. Imported to America after World War I, they began to grow in popularity in the late 1930s.
Temperament
One of the breed's most notable characteristics is its desire for human affection, especially from children. The Boxer requires little grooming, but needs daily exercise. The Boxer gets along great with children, often protecting them from outside threats. They are also very intelligent, therefore easy to train and housebreak.
- Working Group; AKC recognized in 1904.
- Ranging in size from 21 inches to 25 inches tall at the shoulder.
- Large game hunter, guard and companion dog.
Environment
- Apartment is ok.
- Active indoors.
- Thrive in moderate climates.
Exercise
- Lots of activity needed.
- Moderate to extended daily exercise.
Grooming
- Easy care.
- Occasional brushing.
- Average shedding.
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Pug
The Pug is well described by the phrase “multum in parvo” which means “a lot of dog in a small space.” They are recognized for their even-tempers, playful personalities, and their outgoing, loving dispositions. This square and cobby breed come in fawn, silver fawn, apricot fawn, or black, with a well-defined “mask” on his muzzle. A popular companion dog, the pug also excels in the show ring.
History
The Pug is one of the oldest breeds of dogs and has flourished since before 400 BC. Most researchers agree that the breed comes from Asia, due to its similarities to the Pekingese. China is the earliest known source for Pugs, where they were pets of the Buddhist monasteries in Tibet. The breed next appeared in Japan and Europe, becoming popular when Prince William II became the King of England. He owned Pugs and they became the fashionable breed for generations.
Temperament
The Pug's reason for living is to be near their people and to please them, and their sturdiness makes them a family favorite. They are comfortable in small apartments because they need minimal exercise, but the breed can adapt easily to all situations. The Pug sheds, but its short coat requires little grooming.
- Toy Group; AKC recognized in 1885.
- Weighting between 14 to 18 pounds.
- Companion dog.
Environment
- Apartment is fine.
- Low activity indoors.
- Thrive in moderate climates.
Exercise
- Daily light exercise.
Grooming
- Easy care.
- Heavy seasonal shedding.
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Basset Hound
Instantly recognizable due to its big, heavy body, short legs, and long ears, the Basset Hound has proven itself to be a multi-purpose dog that excels in conformation, obedience, tracking, field trialing, and pack hunting. The breed is known for its strong hunting instinct and, if given the opportunity, will chase or follow a scent willingly. The Basset can be any hound color, which includes combinations of black, tan, white, red, and other colors.
History
The Basset Hound was originally developed in France as a trailer of small game that hunters could follow on foot. Bassets continued to achieve very notable popularity during the reign of Emperor Napoleon, and in 1880 Queen Alexandra kept Basset Hounds in the royal kennels. Marquis de Lafayette brought Basset Hounds, known for their impeccable sense of smell, to the United States as a gift to President George Washington to use in his hunting expeditions.
Temperament
The Basset's sweet, gentle disposition makes him a great companion and his short coat requires minimal grooming. The Basset is often great with children because they are not overly active. The Basset Hound also actively follows scents while outside so be prepared! They also get along very well with other dogs.
- Hound Group; AKC recognized in 1885.
- Height should not exceed 14 inches tall at the shoulder.
- Hunting dog; trailing dog.
Environment
- Apartment is ok.
- Low activity indoors.
- Average sized yard is fine.
Exercise
- Moderate daily exercise.
Grooming
- Easy care.
- Brush 1X/week.
- Keep ears clean.
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Yorkshire Terrier
Yorkshire Terrier puppies, affectionately known as “Yorkies,” offer big personalities in a small package. Though members of the Toy Group, they are terriers by nature and are brave, determined, investigative, and energetic. They have long, luxurious blue and tan coats and because of that, they are non-shedding. This portable pooch is one of the most popular breeds according to the AKC Registration Statistics.
History
Named for the English city from which they originally hail, Yorkshire Terriers were used in the nineteenth century to catch rats and other small rodents in clothing mills. Surprisingly enough, in its beginnings, the Yorkie belonged to the working class, especially the weavers; in fact, facetious comments were often made about how the dogs' fine, silky coats were the ultimate product of the looms. Eventually, the breed left the workforce and became a companion animal to families of European high society.
Temperament
Yorkies are easily adaptable to all surroundings and because of that, they travel well and make suitable pets for many homes. Due to their small size, they require limited exercise but need daily interaction with their people. Their long coat requires regular brushing. The Yorkie does better around older children that won't pull or yank on them. They tend to bond with one person, therefore extra socialization is needed in a family environment.
- Yorkshire Terrier Breed Standard.
- Toy Group.
General Appearance
That of a long-haired toy terrier whose blue and tan coat is parted on the face and from the base of the skull to the end of the tail and hangs evenly and quite straight down each side of the body. The body is neat, compact, and well proportioned. The dog's high head carriage and confident manner should give the appearance of vigor and self-importance. Grooming is recommended every six weeks or so. The most popular haircut for the Yorkie is called a 'puppy cut'.
Environment
- Apartment is fine because of small size
- Very active indoors.
Exercise
- Daily light exercise.
Grooming
- Regular brushing and combing because of non-shedding hair coat
- Periodic professional grooming recommended.
- Little to no shedding.
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Standard Schnauzer
A medium-sized working breed, the Standard Schnauzer is sturdy and athletic, known for his arched eyebrows and bristly mustache and whiskers, the hallmark of the breed. Today, he can be seen in the conformation and performance rings and also serving as a therapy, service, and search and rescue dog. The breed's harsh, wiry coat must be salt and pepper or black.
History
The oldest of the three schnauzer breeds (and the prototype for the Giant and Miniature versions), the Standard Schnauzer originated in Germany. He guarded the family and livestock, rid the farmyard of vermin, and protected his owners as they traveled to market. The breed's name comes from the beard and mustache on his muzzle (“schnauze” in German).
Temperament
Sociable and affectionate, Standard Schnauzers become true members of their families and especially love children. Naturally protective, they will also alert members of the household to any potential danger. The breed is very intelligent but can be strong-willed, so it's beneficial to start training early and provide daily opportunities for exercise. The Standard Schnauzer's beard and leg hair should be brushed often to prevent mats from forming. The body coat should be “stripped” (loose, dead hair is plucked out) at least twice a year.
- Working Group; AKC recognized in 1904.
- Ranging in size from 17 to 19 inches tall at the shoulder.
- Rat catcher; guard dog.
Environment
- Apartment is fine.
- Very active indoors.
Exercise
- Daily extended vigorous exercise.
Grooming
- Daily combing and brushing.
- Periodic professional grooming recommended.
- Little to no shedding.
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Dachshund
The Dachshund, meaning “badger dog” in German, is a lively breed with a friendly personality and keen sense of smell. Known for their long and low bodies, they are eager hunters that excel in both above- and below-ground work. One of the most popular breeds according to AKC Registration Statistics, they come in three different coat varieties (Smooth, Wirehaired, or Longhaired) and can be a miniature or standard size.
History
Dachshunds were first bred in the early 1600s in Germany. The goal was to create a fearless, elongated dog that could dig the earth from a badger burrow and fight to the death with the vicious badgers.
The breed became popular in the U.S. during the early 1900s but fell out of favor during World War I. After the war, a few U.S. breeders slowly rebuilt the gene pool by importing German stock, and the breed began to increase in popularity again.
Temperament
Dachshunds are lovable, playful companions, and an ideal pet for many homes, including those with children with appropriate supervision. They require moderate exercise and can adapt to most living environments. Depending on their coat type, Dachshunds may need regular grooming.
- Hound Group; AKC recognized in 1885.
- Dachshunds can be a standard or miniature size. Standards range from 16-32 pounds, while Miniatures weigh 11 pounds and under.
- Badger hunter, family companion.
Environment
- Apartment is fine
- Fairly active indoors
Exercise
- Daily walk is fine
- Love to play
Grooming
- Daily brushing
- Average shedding
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Pomeranian
The Pomeranian is a cocky, animated companion with an extroverted personality. This compact little dog is an active toy breed with an alert character and fox-like expression. Today, the Pomeranian is a popular companion dog and competitive show dog. They can come in all colors, patterns, and variations although orange and red are the most popular.
History
The breed's name originally came from the historical region of Pomerania (now present-day Germany and Poland). Originally weighing nearly 30 pounds, the dog served as an able herder of sheep in its larger form. In 1888, Queen Victoria fell in love with a Pomeranian in Florence, Italy, and brought the specimen back to England, influencing its popularity dramatically.
Temperament
Pomeranians are very intelligent dogs that love to please. Because of their outgoing temperaments, they can be very good family dogs with the right training. Due to their small size, they don't require much exercise but are an energetic breed that needs attention from their people frequently. Pomeranians need a firm hand with training.
- Toy Group; AKC recognized in 1888.
- Ranging in size from 4 to 12 pounds, with the ideal weight for the show specimen being 4 to 9 pounds.
- Bred down from sled and herding dogs, companion.
Environment
- Apartment is fine because of small size
- Very active indoors.
- Be careful in hot weather because of their hair coat.
Exercise
- Daily light exercise.
Grooming
- Regular brushing because of long hair coat
- Moderate to heavy shedding.
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French Bulldog
Often described as “a clown in the cloak of a philosopher,” the French Bulldog originated as and continues to be used as a companion dog. The breed is small and muscular with a heavy bone structure, a smooth coat, a short face, and trademark “bat” ears. Prized for their affectionate natures and even dispositions, they are generally active and alert, but not unduly boisterous. Frenchies can be brindle, fawn, white, and brindle and white.
We love these guys so much, we even did a whole blog dedicated to the French Bulldog.
History
Lacemakers in 19th Century Nottingham, England selectively bred the early bulldog for a downsized or “toy” bulldog, for use as a lap pet. When the Industrial Revolution displaced some lacemakers to France, they took the dogs with them, and soon the “toy” bulldogs became popular in France, where wealthy Americans doing the Grand Tour saw and fell in love with them. In the late 1800s, these “toy bulldogs” became known as French Bulldogs.
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Temperament
Frenchies are indoor dogs but require air conditioning in warm weather. While good at alerting their owners to danger (Look! The UPS Guy is coming!), their main role is that of lap warmer. The Frenchie requires minimal exercise and grooming.
- Non-Sporting Group; AKC recognized in 1898.
- Must weigh 28 pounds or less.
- Companion.
Environment
- Apartment is fine.
- Moderate activity indoors.
- Thrives in moderate climates.
Exercise
- Light daily exercise.
Grooming
- Easy care.
- Light brushing.
- Average shedding.
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Pembroke Welsh Corgi
Low-set, strong, and sturdily built, the Pembroke Welsh Corgi gives an impression of substance in a small space. He is one of the most agreeable small house dogs, as well as an avid competitor in many dog sports, including conformation, herding, and obedience. The Pembroke Corgi is a separate breed from the Cardigan Corgi, possessing a shorter body and straighter, lighter boned legs. His ears are pointed at the tip and stand erect, and he has a short tail. The coat can be red, sable, fawn, black, and tan with or without white markings.
History
The Corgi from Pembrokeshire is a breed of considerable antiquity. The direct ancestors of the Pembroke were brought across the Channel in 1107 by Flemish weavers. The early progenitor is said to have had a resemblance to the old Schipperkes and sprang from the same family that includes the Keeshond, Pomeranian, Samoyed, Chow Chow, Norwegian Elkhound, and Finnish Spitz.
Temperament
Bold and friendly, the Pembroke responds well to training and loves his family, but he may try to herd you! He thrives on farms but can adapt to a variety of living situations if given regular exercise. This breed also requires routine brushing.
- Herding Group; AKC recognized in 1934.
- Ranging in size from 10 to 12 inches tall at the shoulder.
- Cattle driver; all-purpose farm dog.
Environment
- Apartment is fine
- Low to moderate activity indoors
Exercise
- Daily extended exercise
Grooming
- Easy care
- Occasional brushing
- Moderate seasonal shedding
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Papillon
The Papillon is a small, friendly, elegant toy dog with a fine-boned structure. He is light and dainty, yet still lively, and is distinguished from other breeds by his beautiful, butterfly-like ears. They are known to be happy and alert little dogs that are not shy or aggressive. The breed must be either parti-color or white with patches of any color.
History
Papillons, which used to only have large, drooping ears, were known in the 16th and 17th centuries as Dwarf Spaniels and were often depicted on the laps of French and Spanish noblewomen. Over time, an erect-eared type, fringed as to resemble the ears of a butterfly, developed (Papillon means “butterfly” in French). In the United States, Papillons (erect-eared) and Phalenes (drop-eared) can be born in the same litter and are shown together as one breed.
Temperament
Papillons are a happy breed whether living in an apartment, out in the country, or anywhere in between. They love to play outdoors, but they can be easily entertained and exercised indoors as well. Because they don't have an undercoat, they don't require a lot of grooming but should still be brushed regularly.
- Toy Group; AKC recognized in 1915.
- Ranging in size from 8 to 11 inches tall at the shoulder.
- Companion dog.
Environment
- Apartment is ok
- Very active indoors
Exercise
- Daily light exercise
Grooming
- Daily brushing and combing
- Average shedding
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Chihuahua
Graceful, alert, and swift-moving with a saucy expression, the Chihuahua is highly intelligent and should not be underestimated even though small in size. The breed can be any color: solid, marked, or splashed, and the coat may be long or short. These sassy little dogs are well known as “purse dogs” like the famous Bruiser in the movie Legally Blonde starring Reese Witherspoon.
History
The Chihuahua's history is shrouded in mystery, but some believe he originated from the Fennec Fox, a very small animal with big eyes and ears, which could explain the tiny frame, luminous eyes, and large ears on the breed today. Chihuahua's were used in religious ceremonies and were pets to the upper class. The breed derives its name from the Mexican State of Chihuahua, where the earliest specimens of the breed were found.
Temperament
The Chihuahua is an alert dog with terrier-like qualities. They are good with families if the children are gentle and patient. Because of their small size, they require little exercise and are good city dogs, but can be sensitive to cold temperatures. Smooth-coated Chihuahuas need very little grooming due to their short hair. Long coats need occasional brushing but still require minimal grooming.
- Toy Group; AKC recognized in 1904.
- Not more than 6 pounds.
- Companion dog.
Environment
- Apartment is fine because of small size
- Does not tolerate cold climates because of short hair
Exercise
- Daily short walk is fine
- Love to play
Grooming
- Average shedding because of short hair coat
- Regular brushing
- Regular bathing
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Cocker Spaniel
Exhibited in the US since the 1880s, the Cocker Spaniel remains one of the most popular breeds according to AKC registration statistics. The Cocker has a sturdy, compact body and a silky, flat or wavy coat. He is a merry, well-balanced dog that is capable of considerable speed and great endurance. Cocker Spaniels can be black, black with tan points, parti-colored or any solid color other than black (ASCOB).
History
As far back as the 14th Century, there is mention of the Spanyell, which came to be divided into water and land spaniels. “Cockers” are the smallest of the spaniels and the Sporting Group. The American Cocker has evolved somewhat differently in appearance from the breed now recognized as the English Cocker Spaniel. His desire to hunt renders him a capable gun dog; he covers territory speedily, flushing game and retrieving only when under command. He takes to water readily.
Temperament
Despite their small size, the Cocker Spaniel is still an active Sporting breed that needs daily exercise. Regular brushing and a trim every few months help keep the coat free of mats. Cockers are intelligent, gentle dogs that thrive as part of a family.
- Sporting Group; AKC recognized in 1878.
- Average size: from 13 inches to 15 inches at the shoulder.
- Family pet, hunting dog.
Environment
- Apartment is ok
- Somewhat active indoors.
- Small yard is fine.
Exercise
- Daily walks
- Love extended play
Grooming
- Regular trimming needed
- Professional grooming recommended
- Daily brushing
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Cairn Terrier
Best known as “Toto” from the Wizard of Oz, the Cairn Terrier is a small, hardy working terrier. Originally bred to aid Scottish farmers in ridding their properties of pests, Cairns today use their tenacity to excel in obedience, agility, terrier, and tracking trials. Alert and active, this breed possesses a harsh, weather-resistant outer coat that can be any color except white. The hair around the head gives him a general foxy expression.
History
The Cairn originated in the Highlands of Scotland and the Isle of Skye, initially grouped in the “Skye Terrier” class alongside the Scottish and West Highland White Terriers. In the early 1900s, the three breeds began to be bred separately. The name “Cairn” refers to the rock dens that foxes and badgers lived in throughout the countryside. The dog would squirm down into these “cairns” and bark to hold the predator until the farmer killed it.
Temperament
Cairns love their families but may try to test their owner's limits, so obedience training is necessary. Although they learn quickly, the Cairn may always have the instinct to dig and chase small animals, so new owners should be prepared for these behaviors. Regular brushing and exercise are also necessary to keep the breed fit and happy.
- Terrier Group; AKC recognized in 1913.
- Ideal size about 10 inches tall at the shoulder and 14 pounds.
- Fox/rat/otter hunter.
Environment
- Apartment is ok
- High activity indoors
Exercise
- Daily walk or moderate exercise
- Love to play
Grooming
- Frequent brushing
- Regular bathing
- Regular trimming
- Light shedding
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Boston Terrier
Truly an “All-American” dog, the Boston Terrier is a lively and highly intelligent breed with an excellent disposition. Conveying an impression of determination, strength, and activity, he is short-headed and compactly built and must be black, brindle, or seal with white markings.
History
Following the Civil War, the Boston Terrier breed was developed in the stables of Boston, Massachusetts, as a fighting dog. An imported dog known as “Hooper's Judge” (sold to a Boston man in 1870) became the ancestor of almost all true modern Boston Terriers.
The breed is an American creation, resulting from a cross between an English Bulldog and a white English Terrier. In 1891, the breed became known as Boston Terriers, taking the name of the city where they originated.
Temperament
The Boston Terrier has been nicknamed “the American Gentleman” because of his dapper appearance, characteristically gentle disposition, and suitability as companion and house pet. They require only a moderate amount of exercise and a minimum amount of grooming. The breed is easy to train and they are easy keepers, preferring to remain by their owner's sides.
- Non-Sporting Group; AKC recognized in 1893.
- Companion
Environment
- Apartment is fine because of small size
- Low activity indoors.
- Thrive in moderate climates because of short snout
Exercise
- Moderate daily exercise.
- Love vigorous play because of terrier disposition
Grooming
- Easy care.
- Occasional brushing because of short hair coat
- Average shedding.
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Beagle
A sturdy hunting dog, the Beagle should look like a foxhound in miniature. His hunting ability, combined with a merry personality, has made the Beagle one of the most popular dogs in the United States according to AKC Registration Statistics. The most famous Beagle of all is Snoopy from the comic strip “Peanuts.” Today's Beagle comes in two height varieties (13 in. and 15 in.) and any true hound color, including tri-color, red and white, and lemon.
History
In the 1500s, most English gentlemen had packs of hounds. Larger hounds tracked deer, while smaller ones went after rabbits. These were the first Beagles. The origin of the name “Beagle” may have been derived from the French term “be'geule,” referring to the baying voice of the hounds when in pursuit of game, or possibly the diminutive size of the hound.
Temperament
Beagles are happy-go-lucky and friendly, making them a wonderful family pet. They are also favored for their compact size and short easy to care for coat. Since they lived in packs for hundreds of years, they naturally enjoy the company of other dogs and humans. Curious and comedic, they often follow their noses which can lead to some mischief if they are not provided with daily activity.
- Hound Group; AKC recognized in 1885.
- About 15 inches tall .
- Rabbit/hare hunter, family pet.
Environment
- Apartment is ok.
- Active (and sometimes loud) indoors.
Exercise
- Moderate daily exercise.
- Love a large yard.
Grooming
- Very easy care.
- Occasional brushing.
- Keep ears clean.
- Average shedding.
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Australian Terrier
The Australian Terrier is small and sturdy with a blue and tan, sandy, or red coat that is harsh in texture. They have a keen and alert expression and confident spirit. They are versatile in their work and living situations, making suitable companions in most environments.
History
The Australian Terrier was developed to assist its owner during work in the rugged Australian Outback. He worked side by side with pioneers to control vermin and snake populations, sound the alarm when intruders approached, and help tend livestock. It was the first breed to be recognized as native to Australia in 1868.
Temperament
The breed is described as spirited, alert, and courageous, but also friendly and affectionate around humans. Australian Terriers can adapt to rural or urban dwellings and they do well with a family or someone living alone. The breed has a weatherproof double coat that sheds little and is suitable in any climate.
- Terrier Group; AKC recognized in 1960.
- Height: 10-11 inches tall at the shoulder.
- Small and sturdy; rodent ” snake hunter.
Environment
- Apartment is fine.
- Moderately active indoors.
Exercise
- Daily walk is fine.
- Love to play.
Grooming
- Easy care.
- Brush 3X/week.
- Infrequent bathing.
- Little or no shedding.
- Some trimming.
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Australian Shepherd
Animated, adaptable and agile, the Australian Shepherd lives for his job, which still involves herding livestock and working as an all-purpose farm and ranch dog. He needs a lot of activity and a sense of purpose to be truly content. Today, due to the breed's intelligence and versatility, Aussies also excel in AKC events such as agility, obedience and herding. Their coats can be black, blue merle, red merle and red with or without white markings.
History
There are many theories about the origin of the Australian Shepherd. Despite its misleading name, the breed as we know it today probably developed in the Pyrenees Mountains somewhere between Spain and France. It was called the Australian Shepherd because of its association with Basque shepherds who came to America from Australia in the 1800s. The Australian Shepherd was initially called by many names, including Spanish Shepherd, Pastor Dog, Bob-Tail, Blue Heeler, New Mexican Shepherd, and California Shepherd.
Temperament
An energetic breed with strong herding and guarding instincts, the Aussie requires daily vigorous exercise. Although sometimes reserved with strangers, they are ‰ЫПpeople‰Ыќ dogs that want to always be near their families. Their thick coats require weekly brushing.
- Herding Group; AKC recognized in 1991.
- Ranging in size from 18 to 23 inches tall at the shoulder.
- Sheep herder; farm dog.
Environment
- Apartment? Not so much.
- Love big yards because of their activity level
Exercise
- Vigorous activity.
- Extended exercise.
- Love to learn and train.
Grooming
- Easy care.
- Light brushing.
- Infrequent bathing.
- Average shedding.
