Different types of dog breeds can be categorized and identified based on their weight, height, running speed, barking, shedding levels, activity levels, and coat types. A dog breed is a group of dogs that when bred together they “breed true” and distinguish themselves from other breeds. To breed true, a litter produces the same physical, behavioral and temperamental traits and features in a consistent and dependable way compared to the dam and the sire. A dog breed is able to maintain this consistency after 3 to 7 generations of litters.
There are over 400 dog breeds recognized in the world by different dog registries such as the United Kennel Club (UKC), American Kennel Club (AKC) & British Kennel Club (KC) registries. There are 200 different types of dog breeds registered with the American Kennel Club (AKC) registry such as the German Shepherd, Bulldog, and Labrador Retriever in the United States. There are 374 dog breeds recognised by the UKC. All AKC dog breeds are registered with the UKC, but not all UKC dog breeds are registered with the AKC.
Different dog breeds can be categorized and classified to be a part of a dog breed group such as the Sporting Group, Hound Group, Working Group, Terrier Group, Toy Group, Non-Sporting Group, and Herding Group. A dog breed group all have identifiable traits shared by all the breeds in the group. As an example, the Sporting Dog group are dogs bred for hunting, are good swimmers, typically have thick water repelling coats and are eager to please. The factors for defining a dog type as a unique breed are related to body type such as body size, head shape, fur length and type and color, behaviour factors such as herding, hunting, sporting and personality factors such as aggression or sociable.
The oldest dog breed is the Basenji 6,000 years ago (8,203 years ago), originating in the continent of Africa, although the Guinness Book Of World Records recognizes the Saluki as the oldest dog breed, the Saluki only dates back 5,000 years ago.
The fastest breeds of dogs are the Greyhound (45 mph or 72 km/h) and the Saluki (43 mph or 69 km/h). The slowest dog breeds are the Shih Tzu, Cavalier King Charles Spaniel and Bassett Hound all travelling below 8 mph (12.8 km/h). The Largest dog breeds are the Central Asian Shepherd Dog (average 35 in or 90 cm) and the Great Pyrenees (average 34 in or 87 cm). The Smallest dog breeds are the Biewer Terrier (average 9 in or 23 cm) and the Affenpinscher (average 10 in or 25 cm). The most intelligent dog breeds are the German Shepherd, Poodle and Border Collie. The calmest dog breeds are the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, Bassett Hound and Boerboel. The most energetic dog breeds are Border Collies, Australian shepherds, and German Shorthaired Pointers.
The different types of appearances for dog breeds can be hairless, short haired, long haired, smooth haired, double coated, dreadlocked, loud barking, energetic, calm, high energy, calm, smooth haired to name a few.
Dog breeds vary in terms of temperaments, traits, and characteristics that are appropriate for different purposes, such as protection and family friendliness. Two factors that can affect these behaviors or personalities are training and socialization. It’s essential to learn about the unique requirements and traits of the breed. Labrador Retrievers traits are known for being family friendly, outgoing and good with children. Labs are considered one of the best family dogs due to their gentle traits. German Shepherds are often used as police and guard dogs due to their protective instincts. German Shepherds will make excellent protectors with proper training due to their loyalty and temperament.
The 3 most popular dogs in the US are the Labrador Retriever, the French Bulldog, and the Golden Retriever, according to official AKC registration statistics. The 4th most popular dog is the German Shepherd Dog.
The main dog type criteria vary depending on the breed. Height, for example, is an important trait in Great Danes but not so important in Dalmatians. For Dalmatians, coat pattern is the most important criterion to be met. Genetics and characteristics of a dog type are observed by the dog’s size, coat, and health. To understand a dog type, you need to consider the dog’s size and body shape, the coat’s pattern, length, texture, and color, the dog’s temperament, health, and original purpose in accordance with the traits of the previous lineage.
A list of all dog breeds is found in the list below.
- German Shepherd
- Bulldog
- Labrador Retriever
- Golden Retriever
- French Bulldog
- Siberian Husky
- Poodle
- Alaskan Malamute
- Chihuahua
- Border Collie
- Afghan Hound
- Airedale Terrier
- Dachshund
- Affenpinscher
- Rottweiler
- American Eskimo Dog
- Bichon Frisé
- Great Dane
- Maltese dog
- Australian Shepherd
- English Cocker Spaniel
- Chow Chow
- Pomeranian
- Yorkshire Terrier
- Pembroke Welsh Corgi
- Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
- Anatolian Shepherd Dog
- Basset Hound
- Newfoundland dog
- Belgian Shepherd
- Basenji
- Havanese
- Brittany
- Bullmastiff
- Boston Terrier
- Cairn Terrier
- Sheltie
- Black Russian Terrier
- Bedlington Terrier
- American Pit Bull Terrier
- Dobermann
- Shiba Inu
- Shih Tzu
- Sarabi dog
- Samoyed
- Maltipoo
- Jack Russell Terrier
- Goldendoodle
- American Bully
- Dalmatian
- Akita Inu
1. German Shepherd
The German Shepherd (Alsatian) is one of the most popular dog breeds. Shepherds were originally developed to herd livestock, but now they are utilized in law enforcement, the special forces, rescue and search missions, and pets.
German Shepherds were originally herding dogs in Germany. The primitive herding German Shepherd Dog (GSD) was officially bred by Captain Max von Stephanitz, a German cavalry officer, in 1889. According to Leerburg, a company dedicated to training dogs like the German Shepherd, the first registry for German Shepherds was created in 1899 shortly after their origination due to their overwhelming popularity.
German Shepherd’s main features include being a strong, intelligent, faithful, agile dog that is easy to train.
The German Shepherd dog breed has a sloped back, pointed ears and typical health issues including hip dysplasia and degenerative spinal stenosis.
On average, the German Shepherd dog breed needs 1,900 daily calories. Less active or older GSD’s need between 1,250 and 1,500 calories per day, while active need between 1,700 and 2,150 calories per day.
GSD’s average weight is 69 pounds (31 kg). Male German Shepherds have an average weight of 50 – 90 pounds (22.5 – 41 kg) and females have an average weight of 50 – 70 pounds (23 – 32 kg). Males have an average height of 24 – 26 inches (61 – 66 cm) and females have an average height of 22 – 24 inches (56 – 61 cm). German Shepherds range in size from medium to large with a standard longer snout and black nose. GSD’s have larger pointy ears that stand up, eyes of medium shape and are mostly brown in color. Their barking is the loudest recorded and bark frequently, given their herding & security background. GSD’s and are extremely intelligent, the 3rd most intelligent dog according to the 1994 book titled “The Intelligence of Dogs” by Stanley Coren, learning new commands within 5 repetitions. The German Shepherd should cut toenails every 1.5 to 2.5 months.
A table of the German Shepherd’s main features and attributes is below.
| German Shepherd | German Shepherd Features |
|---|---|
| Appearance | Perked ears, sloped back, Colors: black and tan, brown / chocolate, blue, gray, white |
| Height | 22 – 26 inches (55 – 66 cm) |
| Weight | 50 – 90 pounds (22.5 – 41 kg) |
| Characteristics | Strong, Intelligent, Faithful, Agile, Loyal |
| Energy Level | High (5 out of 5) |
| Shedding Level | Regularly (5 out of 5) |
| Barking Level | Frequent (4 out of 5) |
| Friendliness | Affectionate (4 out of 5) |
| Aggressiveness | Neutral – Aggressive due to protective instincts (4 out of 5) |
| Loyalty | Most Loyal (5 out of 5) |
2. Bulldog
The Bulldog, also known as British Bulldog, English Bulldog, Bulldogs, and even as sourmug, originated in the British Isles around the 13th century and as far back as 1209. Originally bred to be vicious, fearless, and courageous, the English Bulldog, a mix between an Asiatic mastiff and pug, were bred to fight in deadly and cruel animal sports, and bait bulls. Hence, their name, Bulldog.
Their large heads, loose skin, and wrinkles were prioritized when breeding this Bulldog as these features actually allowed them to get right back up and recover after an attack. Bulldogs are still known for their pushed-in nose, dark brown/black eyes, protruding jaw, stocky build, and small folded ears.
The Bulldog dog breed is primarily owned for the gentle companionship they provide now that bull fighting and cruel animal sports have been banned. Their courage is still everpresent, these well muscled dogs are sweet, calm, like to sleep, and yet are sociable and extroverted.
When it comes to nutrition, these headstrong Bulldogs, need a well-balanced nutrition of animal and plant based protein (i.e. chickpeas, beans, and broccoli), carbohydrates for energy like sweet potatoes, and healthy fats for their coat and nervous system. Bulldogs also benefit greatly from additional vitamins and minerals. When it comes to animal protein, Bulldogs are known to be allergic to chicken. Consult your vet if you suspect a food alergy.
Depending on the Bulldog’s energy levels, to make sure these medium sized dogs are not at risk of obesity, they should be eating between 1,300 and 1,500 calories or 3 to 4 cups per day split into 2 feedings.
A healthy weight for female British Bulldogs is between 40 and 44 lbs (18 – 20 kg) with a height of 2 – 14 inches (30.5 – 35.5 cm), while males range 51 – 55 lbs (23 – 25 kg) with an average size of 14 – 16 inches (35.5 – 40.6 cm). As long as the Bulldog is properly fed, loved, and cared for, these sweet dogs live between 8 and 10 years of age.
In addition to nutritional needs, the Bulldog is a low maintenance breed that sheds their short, smooth, double coat minimally, requiring a weekly brushing, their teeth to be brushed 1 to 2 times a week, ears checked weekly and cleaned at least once a month as needed, nails trimmed 1 to 2 times a month, and a bath given once every 6 weeks, or as needed.
While these Bulldogs are smart, they may need additional time to train. And while they seldom bark, they do like to growl during playtime and if they are unhappy, they are known to shout.
A table of the Bulldog’s main features and attributes is below.
| Bulldog | Bulldog Features |
|---|---|
| Appearance | Large heads, loose skin, pushed-in nose, protruding jaw, dark brown and black eyes, small folded ears, stocky build. |
| Height | 12 – 16 inches (30.5 – 41 cm) |
| Weight | 40 – 55 lbs (18 – 25 kg) |
| Characteristics | Playful, gentle, sweet, calm, amicable, extroverted |
| Energy Level | Calm (2 out of 5) |
| Shedding Level | Seasonally (2 out of 5) |
| Barking Level | Infrequently (2 out of 5) |
| Friendliness | Affectionate (5 out of 5) |
| Aggressiveness | Passive (2 out of 5) |
| Loyalty | Loyal (4 out of 5) |
3. Labrador Retriever
Labrador Retrievers (Labrador or Lab) are one of the most popular sporting breeds in America and since their induction into the American Kennel Club (AKC) in 1917, they have won the AKC’s “Most Popular” award for 31 consecutive years due to the breed’s personality traits and behavior.
Labrador Retrievers are America’s beloved dog breed and first bred in Newfoundland, Canada to help hunters and fisherman. The ancestors of the Labrador were called St. John’s Dogs. St. John’s Dogs were used by fisheries to carry nets and dive for fish, according to the American Kennel Club. The modern lab is still used for water activities credited to the breed’s webbed toes and coat suited for the water. Labradors are also utilized as service dogs, in search and rescue missions, as law enforcement dogs, and even as bomb and drug detection dogs.
The shoulder height of the Labrador Retriever dog breed ranges from 21.5 – 24 inches (54.5 – 61 cm), with female retrievers on the smaller size, weighing between 55 – 70 lb (25 – 32 kg) and males weighing 65 to 80 lb (29 – 36 kg).
Ranging in size from medium to large, the Labrador breed is known for its broad yet round skulls, webbed paws, strong build, wavy coat and a round “otter tail” that helps them swim. They are also known for their excessive barking due to their protective instincts.
Labrador Retrievers are friendly, have a playful attitude, and are known for their loyalty. Their intelligence and ability to adapt to any situation they encounter, has earned them being the third most intelligent breed according to Stanley Coren.
Due to their high energy and playful attitudes, Labs need a balanced diet high in protein. A diet Provide proper carbohydrates and fats to keep their double coat and skin healthy and luxurious. Their double coat that sheds frequently throughout the year, should be brushed at least once a week, bathed once every 2 to 3 months to keep their thick fur from matting, and their nails trimmed at least once a month.
A table of the Labrador Retriever’s main features and attributes is below.
| Labrador Retriever | Labrador Retriever Features |
|---|---|
| Appearance | Medium sized ears, webbed paws, sturdy build, rounded heads |
| Height | 21.5 – 24 inches (54.5 – 61 cm) |
| Weight | 55 – 80 pounds (25 – 36 kg) |
| Characteristics | Intelligent, protective, loving, active, easy trainability |
| Energy Level | Energetic (5 out of 5) |
| Shedding Level | Regularly (4 out of 5) |
| Barking Level | Average (4 out of 5) |
| Friendliness | Affectionate (5 out of 5) |
| Aggressiveness | Neutral (2 out of 5) |
| Loyalty | Most Loyal (5 out of 5) |
4. Golden Retriever
Golden Retrievers, also known as simple “Golden”, was originally bred in Scotland in the 19th century to retrieve both water-based and land-based prey. By the 20th century, they were well known for their hunting abilities. In modern times, Goldens are more frequently brought home to be companions and family pets.
Formally recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC) in 1925, they joined the sport dog group alongside Labrador Retrievers and Cocker Spaniels due to their high energy levels, work ethic, and ability to be easily trained.
All of these traits make the Golden Retriever dog breed a great service dog, therapy dog, search and rescue dog, and loyal companion in addition to their hunting and retrieving skills.
Golden Retrievers have long, soft coats, broad skulls, floppy ears that dangle, a deep, muscular chest, and tails with thick, long hair. The double coat of Goldens should be brushed at least once a week to keep their fur from being matted or tangled, their nails trimmed every 4 – 6 weeks, and a bath with dog friendly shampoo should be given once every two to four months, or as needed depending on how stinky or dirty they get.
With weights averaging between 55 and 75 pounds (25 – 34 kg) and height between 21.5 – 24 inches (55 to 61 cm), it is important for Golden Retrievers to eat a nutritionally balanced diet to maintain their energy levels and muscle mass, with emphasis placed on high-quality protein.
Not known for their barking because they are known for their affection and laid back attitude most of the time, Goldens are known for their social and perceptive intelligence, which is why they are utilized so often as service animals and therapy dogs.
A table of the Golden Retriever’s main features and attributes is below.
| Golden Retriever | Golden Retriever Features |
|---|---|
| Appearance | Long, soft coats and thick tails, broad skulls, floppy ears that dangle, a deep, muscular chest, and brown eyes |
| Height | 20 – 24 inches (51 – 61 cm) |
| Weight | 55 – 75 pounds (25 – 34 kg) |
| Characteristics | Gentle, easily trainable, energetic, friendly, loving, loyal, and extroverted |
| Energy Level | High-Level (5 out of 5) |
| Shedding Level | Excessive (4 out of 5) |
| Barking Level | Loudest (5 out of 5) |
| Friendliness | Affectionate (5 out of 5) |
| Aggressiveness | Passive (1 out of 5) |
| Loyalty | Most Loyal (5 out of 5) |
5. French Bulldog
Nicknamed Frenchie, the French Bulldog is a cross between Parisian rat terriers and English toy bulldogs and pugs during the 19th century. Originally bred to help farmers chase away the rats, they were also used for companion dogs.
Recognized as a non-sporting dog by the American Kennel Club (AKC) in 1898, the French Bulldog dog breed is a companion dog, sometimes used to chase rats, and many are now show dogs. With over 300,000 Frenchies worldwide, the French Bulldog is the #1 most popular dog according to the AKC.
These small dogs, that weigh between 18 and 28 pounds (8 – 13 kg) and stand 11 to 13 inches tall (27 – 33 cm), are cuddly charmers who have a stubborn streak. Thankfully, they do not bark much but they are vocal and love to use creative sounds to express what they want or need through howls, growls, and gargles.
While small, they have big personalities, but their maintenance needs are minimal. It is recommended to brush their fine, short, smooth coat weekly, paying close attention to their wrinkles 1 to 2 times a week. It is also advised to brush their teeth up to 3x a week, bathe them once every month to 2 months, clean their ears out at least once a month, and trim their nails every 3 weeks or so. Of course, groom as needed based on stench and dirt.
Frenchies are adaptable and intelligent, but can be stubborn. Regardless, French Bulldogs can live 10 to 12 long, healthy, happy years if given proper love and a well-balanced diet that include whole meats, healthy fats like fish oil or coconut oil, and plant based proteins as Frenchies are known to have food allergies.
With proper socialization, ongoing training, positive reinforcement, and cuddles, French Bulldogs make the perfect companion for owners that are looking for a low maintenance, small, cuddly lap dog.
A table of the French Bulldog’s main features and attributes is below.
| French Bulldog | French Bulldog Features |
|---|---|
| Appearance | Large, square head, heavy wrinkles and loose skin on face, short nose, smooth coat, small, compact and muscular, upright rounded ears, brown round eyes |
| Height | 11 to 13 inches (27 to 33 cm) |
| Weight | 18 to 28 pounds (8 – 13 kg) |
| Characteristics | Easygoing, fun-loving, charmers, alert watchdogs, playful, adaptable, friendly, cuddly |
| Energy Level | Calm (1 out of 5) |
| Shedding Level | Occasionally (1 out of 5) |
| Barking Level | Infrequently (1 out of 5) |
| Friendliness | Affectionate (5 out of 5) |
| Aggressiveness | Neutral (3 out of 5) |
| Loyalty | Loyal (4 out of 5) |
6. Siberian Husky
The Siberian Husky (Chukchi) is one of the most popular dog breeds. Huskies were originally developed to pull humans and supplies across rough terrain during harsh weather conditions to hunt for food. Now, they are mostly utilized for dog racing sports, like the Iditarod, and kept as family pets.
Originally bred in what is now Siberia, Russia by the Chukchi tribe at least 3,000 years ago, Siberian Huskies, their main features include being strong, intelligent, independent, easy-going, playful and highly social.
A Siberian Husky dog breed has upright, triangle pointed ears with a wide variety of coat colors, three eye colors and are known to be general very healthy dogs, but not immune to health issues like hip dysplasia and cataracts.
On average, Siberian Huskies need at least 1,100 daily calories. Less active or older huskies are fine with 1,100 calories per day, active sibes need upwards of 1,800 calories per day, and extremely active huskies can consume up to 10,000 calorie per day.
Siberian Huskies average weight is 50 pounds (23 kg). Male huskies have an average weight of 45 – 60 pounds (20 – 27 kg) and females have an average weight of 35 – 50 pounds (19 – 23 kg). Males have an average height of 20 – 24 inches (50 – 60 cm) and females have an average height of 19 – 23 inches (48 – 58 cm). Siberian Huskies are a medium sized dog with pointy ears that stand up, medium shaped eyes, and the most common coat color combination is black and white. They very rarely bark but they do howl often as a means of communication. Huskies are intelligent but also independent, a combination that leads to some huskies being mischievous or stubborn, earning them the 74th place out of 138 dog breeds according to the 1994 book titled “The Intelligence of Dogs” by Stanley Coren. Huskies should have their nails trimmed, and bathed, 2 to 3 times a year, or as needed.
A table of the Siberian Husky’s main features and attributes is below.
| Siberian Husky | Siberian Husky Features |
|---|---|
| Appearance | Upright triangle ears, wolflike patterns, Coat colors: black and white, red and white, grey and white, white, Eye colors: blue, brown, bi-color blue/brown |
| Height | 19 – 24 inches (48 – 60 cm) |
| Weight | 35 – 60 pounds (19 – 27 kg) |
| Characteristics | Strong, Intelligent, Playful, Agile, Loyal, Easy-going, Social, Levelheaded, Outgoing, Always alert |
| Energy Level | High-Level (5 out of 5) |
| Shedding Level | Frequently (5 out of 5) |
| Barking Level | Average (3 out of 5) |
| Friendliness | Highly social and gentle demeanor (5 out of 5) |
| Aggressiveness | Passive (4 out of 5) (but have a high prey drive) |
| Loyalty | Most Loyal (4 out of 5) |
7. Poodle
Poodles may be the national dog of France where they are also known as Caniche, but poodles originated in Medieval Germany, not France. In Germany, they were named after the word “pudel” or “pudelin”, which translates to “to splash in the water”.
Originally bred to hunt water fowl, a water retriever of ducks and birds, and even as truffle hunters due to their excellent scent tracking abilities. Considered dogs of royalty and of German upperclassmen, the Poodle dog breed has been companions of many famous people throughout time, such as Winston Chuchill, Charles Dickens, Elvis Presley, and US President George Bush, amongst many others.
After the French Revolution, because of their many fashionable hairdos that were cut in such a way to protect and keep their joints and vital organs warm while also allowing them to become better swimmers, they briefly became circus performers. However, nowadays, besides truffle hunters and water retrievers, because of their affection and alertness, Poodles are utilized as guide dogs, therapy dogs, show dogs, and most popularly, as companions.
Recognized by the AKC in 1887, with over 800,000 purebred poodles, this patient, lively, easy to train breed has become one of the most popular dogs in America since they were introduced in the late 17th century.
With their long legs, dropped ears, straight back, Poodles are well known for their curly, wiry, and dense hair that comes in silver, black, white, grey, and chocolate. Considered hair and not fur as hair does not stop growing or fall out, the Poodle coat must be brushed daily with fingers and followed up with a soft slicker brush as it tends to mat frequently. With that being said, Poodles are hypoallergenic and are a great breed choice for people with dog allergies.
This highly active dog breed needs at least an hour of exercise per day, and depending on activity level and age, require between 1,300 to 1,700 calories per day of protein, vegetables, fruits, and grains to remain healthy. A well-balanced diet will ensure they remain at a healthy weight between 40 – 50lbs (18 – 23 kg) for females and 60 – 70 pounds (27 – 32 kg) for males, and be able to spend their 12 to 15 years of life happy and playful.
Because of their curly, wiry hair, it is important to brush them daily, and bathe them at least once a month to help their skin and coat reset. It is also important to trim their nails monthly, their ears weekly, and brush their teeth 2 to 3 times a week.
Poodles are a highly intelligent breed, following only the Border Collie. And because of this intelligence, they are alert and protective and easy to train. Even their moderate barking levels can be trained to be infrequent.
A table of the Poddle’s main features and attributes is below.
| Poodle | Poodle Features |
|---|---|
| Appearance | colors: apricot, black, blue, brown, cream, red, silver, silver beige, white, cafe au lait, and grey; Curly, wiry, dense hair, long legs and neck, straight back, and dropped ears |
| Height | 22 – 27 inches ( 56 – 69 cm) Standard Over 15 in (38 cm) Miniature (15 -11 in) (38-28 cm)Toy (10 inches and under) 25.4 cm and under |
| Weight | 40 – 70 pounds (18 – 32 kg)Standard: 40 – 70 lbs (18.1 – 31.7 kg)Miniature: 10 – 15 lbs (4.5 – 7 kg)Toy: 6 – 10 lbs (2.7 – 4.5 kg) |
| Characteristics | Loyal, patient, affectionate, graceful, trainable, alert, playful, intelligent. |
| Energy Level | High-Level (5 out of 5) |
| Shedding Level | Occasionally (1 out of 5) |
| Barking Level | Frequent (3 out of 5) |
| Friendliness | Affectionate (4 out of 5) |
| Aggressiveness | Passive (1 out of 5) |
| Loyalty | Most Loyal (5 out of 5) |
8. Alaskan Malamute
The Alaskan Malamute (Mal or Mally) is a popular and well recognized dog breeds. Originally developed to pull humans, animals from hunts, and supplies across rough terrain during harsh weather conditions to hunt for food, they are now mostly utilized for dog racing sports, like the Iditarod, and kept as family pets.
Originally bred by the Mahlemut tribe in what is now Northern Alaska, at least 2,000 years ago, the main features of Malamutes include their strength, independence, go-with-the-flow attitude, and playful personality.
Mals have upright, triangle pointed ears with a wide variety of coat colors and are known to be very healthy dogs, but not immune to health issues like hip dysplasia and cataracts.
On average, Mallys need at least 1,500 to 2,000 daily calories. Less active or older mals are fine with 1,100 calories per day, active malamutes need upwards of 1,800 calories per day, and extremely active mallys can consume up to 10,000 calorie per day.
The Alaskan Malamute dog breed average weight is 80 pounds (37 kg). Male Mally’s have an average weight of 79 – 95 pounds (36 – 43 kg) and females have an average weight of 71 – 84 pounds (32 – 38 kg). Male Alaskan Malamute’s have an average height of 24 – 26 inches (61 – 66 cm) and females have an average height of 22 – 24 inches (51 – 61 cm).
Malamutes are a large sized dog with pointy ears, similar to huskies but spaced further apart, almond-shaped eyes in various brown shades, and a wide range of bicolor coats, with black and white the most common.
Very rarely do they bark, but they do howl often as a means of communication. Mals can be stubborn due to their independence and intelligence, earning them the 50th place out of 138 dog breeds according to the 1994 book titled “The Intelligence of Dogs” by Stanley Coren.
Alaskan Malamutes should have their nails trimmed, and bathed, every 6 to 8 weeks, or as needed.
A table of the Alaskan Malamute’s main features and attributes is below.
| Alaskan Malamute | Alaskan Malamute Features |
|---|---|
| Appearance | Upright triangle ears, wolflike patterns, plumed tail, large barrel chest. Coat colors: black and white, red and white, grey and white, seal and white, blue and white, silver and white, sable and white, white, Eye colors: brown |
| Height | 22 – 26 inches (56 – 66 cm) |
| Weight | 71 – 95 pounds (32 – 43 kg) |
| Characteristics | Strong, Intelligent, Playful, Agile, Loyal, Easy-going, Social, Levelheaded, Outgoing, Always alert, Affectionate, Independent |
| Energy Level | High-Level (5 out of 5) |
| Shedding Level | Excessively (5 out of 5) |
| Barking Level | Average (3 out of 5) |
| Friendliness | Highly social and gentle demeanor (5 out of 5) |
| Aggressiveness | Passive (4 out of 5) (but have a high prey drive) |
| Loyalty | Most Loyal (4 out of 5) |
9. Chihuahua
Chihuahuas, also known as Chi’s, are the most well-known toy dog breeds and are one of the oldest breeds on the American continent. Traced back to historical Mexican civilizations, including the Aztecs, they were named after the Mexican state of Chihuahua.
History has lost how the Chihuahua dog type first arrived in Mexico, but another civilization, the Toltecs, has been recorded as breeding Techichi, the ancestors of the Chihuahua.
Originally bred to be companions of ancient civilizations, Chi’s gained formal recognition by the American Kennel Club (AKC) in 1904, and are still bred primarily for companionship.
Known for their small, toy breed size, energetic personalities, and fierce loyalty, the Chihuahua dog breed is emotionally intelligent. While they only earned the 89th spot in Stanley Cohen’s ranking of dog intelligence due to their stubborn independence, their intelligence shines when it comes to reading human emotions, learning new commands, and capacity to remember.
Chihuahuas have erect ears, large eyes, round apple shape skulls, pointy faces, a tail that curves upwards slightly, and can either have long or short double coats. Whether they have long or short coats, grooming is important for this small dog to remain healthy. They should be brushed 1 – 2 times a week, bathed every three to four months, and nails trimmed once every 2 to 3 weeks. Additionally, because they have large eyes that easily dry out, check and clean any discharge daily with a damp soft cloth.
Because of their small size, they do not need more than 1/2 cup of dog food daily and their diet should have a high protein and fat to carbohydrates ratio to keep energy levels up and at a ideal weight to size proportion.
This weight-to-size ratio is important because, at their full size, they range from 6 – 9 inches (15 to 23 cm) tall, weighing between 2 and 6 lbs (0.9 – 2.7 kg). Their small statures does not support much more weight than 6 pounds. Additionally, though they may be small, with a lifespan of 12 to 20 years, they are frequent barkers at high-pitch levels due to their territorial natures.
A table of the Chihuahua’s main features and attributes is below.
| Chihuahua | Chihuahua Features |
|---|---|
| Appearance | Erect ears, large eyes, round apple shape skulls, pointy faces, a tail that curves upwards slightly, short or long coat |
| Height | 6 and 9 inches (15 to 23 cm) |
| Weight | 2 and 6 pounds (0.9 to 2.7 kg) |
| Characteristics | Affectionate, loyal, smart, bold, strong-willed, energetic, brave. |
| Energy Level | Energetic (4 out of 5) |
| Shedding Level | Regularly (3 out of 5) |
| Barking Level | Most, Loudest (5 out of 5) |
| Friendliness | Affectionate (4 out of 5) |
| Aggressiveness | Aggressive (4 out of 5) |
| Loyalty | Most Loyal (5 out of 5) |
10. Border Collie
The Border Collie (Collie or BC) is recognized as the most intelligent dog breed. Border Collies were originally bred for herding, and continue to be a popular choice for herding, search and rescue, and police work such as bomb recognition and narcotics division.
Border Collies were originally herding dogs from Northumbria, between the borders of Northern England and Scotland. The Border Collie as we know it today, was named in 1915 by James Reid from the United Kingdom.
Border Collie’s main features include being an intelligent, faithful, agile dog that is easy to train.
The Border Collie dog breed has feathered tails and a medium sized muscular body and will often hold their heads low. Their typical health issues include hip dysplasia and Collie Eye Anomaly (CEA).
On average, Border Collies need 1,000 daily calories. Less active or older BC’s need between 800 and 1,250 calories per day, while active BCs need between 1,400 and 1,850 calories per day.
BC’s average weight is 40 pounds (18 kg). Male Border Collies have an average weight of 30 – 55 lb (14 – 25 kg) and females have an average weight of 26 – 44 lb (12 – 20 kg). Males have an average height of 19 – 22 inches (48 – 56 cm) and females have an average height of 18 – 21 inches (46 – 53 cm). Border Collies are medium in size, have larger pointy ears that stand up, eyes of medium shape and are most commonly white and black in color, but can come in 20 different color variations. Their barking is high pitch, and bark frequently, given their herding background. BC’s are the most intelligent dog breed according to the 1994 book titled “The Intelligence of Dogs” by Stanley Coren, learning new commands within 5 repetitions. Collies should cut their nails every 1.5 to 2.5 months.
A table of the Border Collie’s main features and attributes is below.
| Border Collie | Border Collie Features |
|---|---|
| Appearance | Ear tips partially folded, agile muscular frame Colors: black & white, Blue, Blue Merle, Red, Red Merle, Sable, White & Blue Merle, White & Red, Lilac, Saddleback Sable, Sable Merle, Gold, Brindle, White & Blue, White & Red Merle, White Ticked, Seal, White & Seal and White & Gold |
| Height | 18 – 22 inches (46 – 56 cm) |
| Weight | 26 – 55 pounds (12 – 25 kg) |
| Characteristics | Incredibly smart, highly alert, easily trainable, loyal, energetic, affectionate. |
| Energy Level | High-Level (5 out of 5) |
| Shedding Level | Seasonally and regularly (4 out of 5) |
| Barking Level | Average (3 out of 5) |
| Friendliness | Independent (3 out of 5) |
| Aggressiveness | Neutral (3 out of 5) |
| Loyalty | Most Loyal (5 out of 5) |
11. Afghan Hound
Afghan Hounds, originally called Tazi by the nomadic tribes of Afghanistan, have reportedly been around for thousands of years, although no evidence supports the theory. Although, they do highly resemble the Saluki, which is considered the oldest dog breed. Bred to be a hunter of large prey like leopards and gazelles across mountains, Afghan Hounds can run up to 40 mph.
First brought to Europe after the Indian-Afghan border wars in the 19th century, British soldiers returned home with Afghan Hounds as companions. It wasn’t until 1926 when Zeppo Marx of the Marx Brothers brought one to America, that they were formally recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC) in 1926.
With their slim, upright curved tails and known for their floppy ears and long silky coat that is heavier on their legs, this independent “aristocratic” looking dog, uses their sight and speed, not sound or stamina, to hunt. Most breeds have 180 degree vision, but these “King of Sight” hounds can see up to 270 degrees.
Today, while Tazis are still viewed as the dog of luxury, they can be found in show dog competitions, agility competitions, as service dogs, as well as family companions.
Living 12 to 14 years on average, these friendly, loyal, dignified yet clownish and sneaky hounds are high maintenance. Not only are they hypersensitive to pain and illness, but they also require frequent grooming due to their long hair. While they are hypoallergenic and great for people allergic to dogs, they need to be brushed daily so their hair does not mat, bathed once to twice a month, their nails trimmed monthly, their ears cleaned once a week, and, because they are prone to having bad teeth, it is highly recommended to brush their teeth 3 times a week.
Thankfully, the Afghan Hound dog breed, only shed moderately despite having long, luxurious hair. And as long as the Afghan Hound’s diet consists of high quality protein for energy, healthy fats like fish oil to keep their coat silky soft, and some carbohydrates, this hound will maintain a healthy average weight between 45 to 65 pounds (20 – 29 kg), with an average height between 25 to 27 inches (63.5 to 68.5 cm).
Afghan hounds are a beautiful dog, both inside and out. However, while they are intelligent, they are stubborn and independent, making training them difficult. Their obedience intelligence may be considered low, but they make decisions and learn concepts quickly due to their original purpose of being independent thinking hunters.
A table of the Afghan Hound’s main features and attributes is below.
| Afghan Hound | Afghan Hound Features |
|---|---|
| Appearance | Floppy ears, long topknot, long skilly coat, slim upright curved tail, straight back |
| Height | 25 to 27 inches (63.5 to 68.5 cm) |
| Weight | 45 to 65 pounds (20 – 29 kg) |
| Characteristics | Friendly, loving, independent, extremely loyal, cheerful, clownish, aloof, dignified, strong prey drive, competitive, adaptable, sensitve, sneaky |
| Energy Level | High-Level (5 out of 5) |
| Shedding Level | Occasionally (1 out of 5) |
| Barking Level | Infrequently (1 out of 5) |
| Friendliness | Affectionate (4 out of 5) |
| Aggressiveness | Passive (1 out of 5) |
| Loyalty | Loyal (4 out of 5) |
12. Airedale Terrier
Airedale Terriers (Airedale) originated during the Mid 19th century in the UK and England. Bred between the Old English Black and Tan Terrier and Otterhound, this “King of Terriers” was bred to track, hunt, and kill both small and large critters, guard the family farm, and drive home missing cows.
Today, they are still used for hunting purposes, but they are a very adaptive and versatile dog, working as an athlete, a family companion, and even as a show dog. The Airedale Terrier dog breed, was first recognized in 1888 by the American Kennel Club (AKC), and became the first official police dog in 1910 in Scotland.
The Airdales are a very intelligent breed, and quite easy to train. Which made them perfect as sentries, messengers, explosive detectors, and search dogs for the wounded during World War I. With their muscular legs, straight back, v-shaped ears, their beard also plays an integral part in protecting their muzzles from thorns and twigs while hunting.
Airedale Terriers, when trained and socialized properly and given proper attention and nutrition, can live 10 to 12 years. When choosing a dog food to provide, it needs to have high quality animal protein, essential fatty acids, and carbohydrates. Airedales have sensitive stomachs, so limit their intake of wheat, rice, and corn.
At an average size of 22 – 24 inches (56 – 61 cm) and weight range of 45 – 60 pounds (20 – 27 kg), Airedale Terriers are the largest of all terriers, hence their “King of Terriers” nickname. John Wayne’s nickname “Little Duke” actually came from his Airedale Terrier named Duke and nicknamed “Big Duke”.
Regardless, Airedales are a high-energy breed that can be aggresive towards unknown dogs due to their protectiveness of their family and home. Airedales are not known to be barkers, but will bark when they are bored, need to be exercised, or alerting to intruders. Just make sure they get at least 1, if not 2 hours of activity per day that burns their energy.
Airedale Terriers are considered hypoallergenic and great for people with dog allergies, but, to remain so, they must be regularly groomed. This includes cleaning their teeth and brushing their wiry coat at least once, if not multiple times, per week, and trimming their nails and cleaning their ears once a month. Additionally, due to their coat, Airedale Terriers would benefit greatly from a haircut trim up to four times a year.
Individual Airedale Terrier’s will have their own unique needs. As long as they are properly fed, cared for, and exercised, they are great family dogs that will light up a home.
A table of the Airedale Terrier’s main features and attributes is below.
| Airedale Terrier | Airedale Terrier Features |
|---|---|
| Appearance | Dense and wiry coat, long head, mustache, beard, folded ears, no forehead, straight back, muscular legs, docked tail |
| Height | 22 – 24 inches (56 – 61 cm) |
| Weight | 45 – 60 pounds (20 – 27 kg) |
| Characteristics | Loyal, confident, outgoing, independent, good with children, protective, athletic, docile |
| Energy Level | High-Level (5 out of 5) |
| Shedding Level | Occasionally (2 out of 5) |
| Barking Level | Medium (3 out of 5) |
| Friendliness | Affectionate (5 out of 5) |
| Aggressiveness | Neutral (2 out of 5) |
| Loyalty | Most Loyal (5 out of 5) |
13. Dachshund
Originating in 15th century Germany, the Dachshund, also known as Wiener dog, daschie, and doxie to name a few nicknames, this dog breed was originally bred to sniff and flush out badgers.
As the breed traveled to England, they started becoming household pets, while still being used to scent and chase burrow-dwelling animals. In the 1870s, they were bred as pets, helping farmers chase rats and hunters track deer, and eventually, when they were formally recognized in 1885 by the American Kennel Club (AKC), they were also bred to be show dogs.
With their low-maintenance, high prey drive, Daschie’s are brave, loyal, and, due to their hunting instincts, fierce protectors of their family. Don’t let their tiny frame, long back, and short legs fool you. These dogs are spunky, smart, stubborn, and are frequent, loud barkers.
The Dachshund dog breed, sitting at 7 – 9 inches (18 – 23 cm) tall and weighing on average 16 – 32 pounds (7 – 14.5 kg) lost popularity during World War 2, and renamed “Liberty Hounds” for a period of time in the US, until they graced the Silver Screen in Hollywood, bringing them back to popularity as one of the most popular AKC breeds in North America.
Nowadays, these small dogs, with their deep chests that help increase their lung capacity so they can hunt underground and their paddle shaped front paws to help with digging, still need to be exercised for at least one hour a day. And while they are smart, they were bred to be independent hunters and can be very stubborn.
When wiener dogs aren’t racing, trying to qualify for the USA Wiener Nationals, or hunting in Europe, they are actually sensitive to changes in their environments.
To keep the Dachshund healthy, outside of exercise and attention, they need a well-balanced diet of at least 18% high-quality animal protein and at least 5% healthy fats to keep their energy levels up and their coat shiny. Coming in 3 different coats – smooth haired, wirehaired, long haired and a wide range of coat colors, these wiener dogs need their nails trimmed and ears cleaned once a month, their teeth brushed at least once a week, and bathed every 3 months.
In terms of brushing, even though they aren’t big shedders, smooth haired daschies should be brushed once or twice a week, wire-haired daschies can be brushed once a month, and it is recommended to brush long-haired daschies every day to keep their coat from matting.
Keep in mind, that no two dachshund’s are the same. Providing a Daschie with a loving home, high-quality nutrition, regular exercise, and proper training and socialization, this bold, curious, and playful breed, makes a great companion for all types of people.
A table of the Dachshund’s main features and attributes is below.
| Dachshund | Dachshund Features |
|---|---|
| Appearance | Long back, low body, paddle shaped front paws, deep chest, short muscular legs, droopy ears, long muzzle |
| Height | 7 – 9 inches (18 – 23 cm) |
| Weight | 16 – 32 pounds (7.3 – 15 kg) |
| Characteristics | Brave, loyal, friendly, upbeat, stubborn, clever, curious, bold, playful |
| Energy Level | High-Level (5 out of 5) |
| Shedding Level | Occasionally (2 out of 5) |
| Barking Level | Frequent and loud (4 out of 5) |
| Friendliness | Affectionate (5 out of 5) |
| Aggressiveness | Aggressive (4 out of 5) |
| Loyalty | Most Loyal (5 out of 5) |
14. Affenpinscher
The Affenpinscher (Affen or Affie) is a toy dog breed that is native to Germany. Cross between German pinschers and pugs, the Affenpinschers are nicknamed “Monkey Terrier” because the word “affen” is German for ape/monkey and “pinscher” is German for terrier. Originally bred for ratting – or hunting rats – and rodents during the 1800s and possibly as far back as the 15th century, they continue to be a popular choice for a watchdog and family companion.
With a protruding jaw and wiry, rough hair, the Affenpinscher dog breed earned its nickname Monkey Terrier earnestly with a mane of shaggy fur around their head, a short nose that overheats, and a mustache.
The Affenpinscher breed was further crossed and helped develop the miniature Schnauzer and the Brussels Griffon. They were originally bred to be a ratter and eliminate rodents in the 1600s in stables, on farms, and in homes. The original Affenpinscher was slightly larger, but the smaller size Monkey Terrier we know today, who stands tall at 9 to 11.5 inches (23 – 29) and weighing 7 to 10 pounds (3 – 4.5 kg), was preferred so they could access smaller places.
These feisty, fearless, sensitive, and playful dogs are actually considered rare today. Formally recognized in 1936 by the American Kennel Club (AKC), these terriers are intelligent and loyal and are great at agility courses, obedience competitions, as therapy animals and show dogs, as well as companions.
However, while they are friendly, they do not like to be chased, hugged, or squeezed and would not be an appropriate dog for households with children. Due to their high prey drive for rodents, they would not be appropriate pets for households with small critters like hamsters. And, unless they are raised together, Affenpinschers are only slightly tolerant of other dogs.
Affenpinschers need consistent training and proper socialization to keep their feisty, strong-willed side to a minimum. While they are extremely playful, they aren’t overly energetic, but do require 30 mins to 1 hour of purposeful physical exercise and mental stimulation. Typical health issues include hip dysplasia, cataracts, and breathing issues due to their facial structure.
These little balls of sensitive watchdogs are technically considered hypoallergenic, but they still require grooming. Their coat and teeth need to be brushed twice a week, but fingers ran through their fur daily to prevent mats and tangles. Every two to three months, the Affenpinscher should be bathed and their coat trimmed. Their ears should be checked weekly for signs of concern, and their nails checked monthly.
On top of grooming needs, this breed, nicknamed by the French “little devil with a mustache”, requires a well-balanced diet of high-quality animal proteins, vegetables, healthy fats, and vitamins to make sure this small, feisty breed lives 12 to 15 happy, healthy years. On average, Affenpinschers need 218 daily calories. Less active or older Affies need between 175 and 200 calories per day, while active Affies need between 220 and 250 calories per day.
The Affen is not known to be a barker; they are independent, stubborn, very intelligent, and very eager to please, making them a good choice for adult owners who are ready for an interesting challenge.
A table of the Affenpinscher’s main features and attributes is below.
| Affenpinscher | Affenpinscher Features |
|---|---|
| Appearance | short/medium wiry fur, short nose, protruding jaw, mane of shaggy fur around head, cropped ear tips partially folded, large eyes, small frame, apelike face |
| Height | 9 to 11.5 inches (23 – 29) |
| Weight | 7 to 10 pounds (3 – 4.5 kg) |
| Characteristics | Feisty, strong-willed, friendly, loyal, sensitive, adaptable, fearless, confident, funny |
| Energy Level | Energetic (4 out of 5) |
| Shedding Level | Occasionally (2 out of 5) |
| Barking Level | Infrequently (2 out of 5) |
| Friendliness | Affectionate (4 out of 5) |
| Aggressiveness | Neutral (3 out of 5) |
| Loyalty | Most Loyal (5 out of 5) |
15. Rottweiler
The Rottweiler (Rottie) is recognized as a very loyal and protective breed. Rottweilers were originally bred for herding and protection and continue to be a popular choice for a guard dog.
Rottweilers were originally herding, guard dogs and used to pull karts. They originated from Germany where they continue to be a popular companion.
The Rottweiler dog breed is recognized as loyal, loving, and confident guardians.
Rottweilers have double coats and a medium to large sized muscular body. Their muscular build also serves as a distinguishing feature. Their typical health issues include hip dysplasia, Hypothyroidism and Aortic Stenosis, which can cause heart failure.
On average, Rottweilers need around 1,800 daily calories. Less active or older Rottweilers need between 1,200 and 1,900 calories per day, while active Rottweilers need between 1,600 and 2,300 calories per day.
A Rottweiler’s average weight is 102.5 pounds (46.5 kg). Male Rottweilers have an average weight of 95 – 135 lb (43.1 – 61.2 kg) and females have an average weight of 80 – 100 pounds (36.3 – 45.4 kg). Males have an average height of 24 – 27 Inches (61.0 – 68.6 cm) and females have an average height of 22 – 25 Inches (55.9 – 63.5 cm).
Rottweilers are medium to large in size, have wide floppy ears, broad head, strong jaw and distinctive black coat with rust, mahogany and tan markings on their face, legs and neck.
A table of the Rottweiler’s main features and attributes is below.
| Rottweiler | Rottweiler Features |
|---|---|
| Appearance | Ear tips pointed down. Double coat. Broad Head. Muscular Build Colors: Black and rust, black and mahogany, black and tan |
| Height | 22 to 27 inches (55.9 to 68.6 cm) |
| Weight | 80 to 135 pounds (36.3 to 61.2 kg) |
| Characteristics | Loyal, loving, confident guardian |
| Energy Level | Medium Level (3 out of 5) |
| Shedding Level | Seasonally and regularly (3 out of 5) |
| Barking Level | Infrequent; Only when at high alert (1 out of 5) |
| Friendliness | Independent (3 out of 5) |
| Aggressiveness | Neutral (3 out of 5) |
| Loyalty | Most Loyal (5 out of 5) |
16. American Eskimo Dog
The American Eskimo Dog (Eskie or American Spitz) originated in Germany and was named the German Spitz. In the 19th century, they arrived in the Midwestern United States with German immigrants. After World War I, their name was changed to the American Eskimo in honor of a local breeding kennel in Ohio of the same name.
Originally bred to be an all purpose farm dog, herders, and watchdogs, Eskies are loyal and intelligent, and today, they take part in trick dog challenges, obedience and agility competitions, as farm dogs still, and are more often a family companion.
The American Eskimo dog breed is high energy and requires at least one hour of purposeful mental stimulation and physical exercise. They can gain weight easily, so it is important to keep an eye on their diet and make sure they are eating high-quality protein and healthy fats, staying away from fillers and additives that could cause harm in the long run.
Eskie’s are cheery, playful, and a gentle breed, making them an excellent choice for families with children. As long as the dog is consistently trained and socialized, they are loyal and love their families immensely. Thankfully, they are easily trained as they are an intelligent, versatile breed, but their independent streak can end with them being manipulative and downright stubborn. But these fluffy, double coated Eskies that constantly shed learn new commands quickly.
American Eskimo dogs are generally territorial; some are reserved, and others are extremely friendly. That is why it is important to socialize and train the Eskie from a very early age.
American Eskimo dogs have a fluffy white coat and an agile frame. Their typical health issues include hip dysplasia, epilepsy, and dental disease. On average, the standard American Eskimo Dog needs 781 to 1145 calories daily. The miniature Eskie requires 342 to 576 calories daily and the toy Eskie requires 139 to 233 daily calories. Less active or older American Eskimo Dogs will require less calories depending on their size while more active dogs will require a higher calorie content.
American Eskimo dogs come in three different sizes. Male American Eskimo Dogs have an average weight of 25 – 35 pounds (11 – 26 kg), while a miniature Eskie can be 10 – 20 pounds (4.5 – 9 kg), and a toy Eskie can be 6 – 10 pounds (2.5 – 4.5 kg). The standard Eskie can stand 15 – 19 inches tall (38 – 48 cm) while the miniature stands 12 – 15 inches tall (30 – 38 cm) and the toy stands 9 – 12 inches tall (23 – 30 cm). The American Eskimo Dog size and weight will vary depending on the sex of the dog.
Male American Eskimo Dogs reach a shoulder height of between 15 – 19 inches tall (38 – 48 cm) while the miniature stands 12 – 15 inches tall (30 – 38 cm) and the toy stands 10 – 12 inches tall (25 – 30 cm) and have a weight of 22 – 40 pounds (10 – 18 kg) for the standard, 12 – 21 pounds (5.5 – 9.5 kg) for the miniature and 8 – 11 pounds (3.6 – 5 kg) for the toy.
Female American Eskimo Dogs reach a shoulder height of between 14 – 18 inches (35 – 45 cm) for the standard 12 – 14 inches (30 – 35.5 cm) for the miniature and 9 – 12 inches (23 – 30 cm) for the toy, while females are smaller at 20 – 35 pounds (9 – 16 kg) for the standard, 10 – 19 pounds (4.5 – 8.6 kg) for the miniature, and 6 – 9 pounds (2.7 – 4 kg) for the toy.
The coat of the Eskie should be brushed 2 to 3 times a week to limit shedding and matting despite their small size. They are talkative, vocal, and have a sharp, loud bark. Especially when they feel their family or territory is being intruded upon.
Recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC) in 1995, Eskies are well recognized by their all solid white or white and cream fluffy coat, upwards curly tail, white eyelashes, foxlike face, and for their extra ruff around their chest and shoulders, mimicking a lion’s mane.
To ensure the American Eskimo dog lives a long and healthy, happy life that is, on average, 13 to 15 years long, it is strongly recommended to check their teeth and ears weekly, trim their nails once a month, and they only need to be bathed once every 3 to 4 months. Bathing any more than that, outside of when its necessary because they stink or are dirty, can cause unncessary skin irritation.
As long as the American Eskimo dog receives the proper care, attention, diet, exercise, training and socialization, this breed is a beautiful family dog for those with active lifestyles.
A table of the American Eskimo Dog’s main features and attributes is below.
| American Eskimo Dog | American Eskimo Dog Features |
|---|---|
| Appearance | All solid white, or solid and cream, white eyelashes, curly tail, pointed upright ears, dense white coat, wedge shaped head, foxlike face, agile muscular frame |
| Height | Standard: 15 – 19 inches tall (38 – 48 cm)Miniature: 12 – 15 inches tall (30 – 38 cm)Toy: 9 – 12 inches tall (23 – 30 cm) |
| Weight | Standard: 25 – 35 pounds (11 – 26 kg)Miniature: 10 – 20 pounds (4.5 – 9 kg)Toy: 6 – 10 pounds (2.5 – 4.5 kg) |
| Characteristics | Hyperactive, cheery, friendly, loyal, playful, gentle, reserved, smart, clever, people pleaser, verstaile |
| Energy Level | High-Level (4 out of 5) |
| Shedding Level | Frequently (3 out of 5) |
| Barking Level | Average (3 out of 5) |
| Friendliness | Very Friendly (5 out of 5) (dependent on individual dog) |
| Aggressiveness | Less Aggressive (2 out of 5) |
| Loyalty | Most Loyal (5 out of 5) |
17. Bichon Frisé
The origins of the Bichon Frisé (Bichon), are made of part legend, part fact. Some say they originated in the middle ages, others say French Sailors brought them home from Tenerife, one of the Canary Islands, in the 14th century. And yet others have claimed Bichon’s originated in Italy and brought to Tenerife by the Phoenicians while traversing the trade route.
Regardless of where they originated, they were originally bred for one thing – companionship. Specifically, companions for French and Italian nobility. These small, cotton ball resembling fluffy dogs with short muzzles and silky dropped ears, weigh between 10 – 20 pounds (6 – 11 kg) and stand 9 – 12 inches (23 – 30 kg), and were the perfect size and temperament to travel on boats and ships along those trade routes.
By the 1930s, due to their agility, trainability, and curiosity, the Bichon Frisé dog breed had also been utilized in circuses as trick-performing dogs and, eventually, as show dogs. They were first introduced to America in 1956, but it wasn’t until 1972 that the American Kennel Club (AKC) recognized the Bichon Frisé. Nowadays, they are still companion dogs, but they also excel in agility competitions, as therapy dogs, and as show dogs.
Whether a Bichon Frisé is a show dog or just a family companion, one thing that all Bichon owners agree on, is that their grooming needs are high-maintenance. These small dogs with big personalities have a double coat that traps any hair that has shed, and therefore, require brushing twice a week to avoid mats and tangles and baths every 2 weeks, with brushing right before to detangle and unmat any hair easier. Bichon’s can have sensitive skin so take careful consideration with what shampoo is used. Their teeth need to be brushed weekly, and once a month by the owner or with the help of a professional groomer. A full grooming of hair and nail trimming, and cleaning of the ears should be done to maintain the curled coat of this hypoallergenic breed.
An interesting fact about the Bichon’s, is that their body is actually longer than it is taller. But they don’t let their small size stop them from having fits of the “Bichon Blitz”, or moments of intense energy before tiring out easily. With that being said, Bichon’s are not highly energetic dogs and only require about 30 minutes of purposeful exercise per day, such as a brisk walk.
To ensure sure this small breed does not become overweight, it is important to only feed them 400 to 700 calories a day – dependent on their individual activity level and age. Additionally, it is important that a Bichon’s well-balanced diet includes whole grains, fish oils, 55 – 75% animal protein, 15 – 18% fat, and 25% carbohydrates, and spread out between two feedings per day.
The Bichon Frisé, an eager to please, lover not a fighter breed, can live 12 to 15 happy and healthy years with the right care and a loving family who doesn’t mind a clingy, cuddly, needy, slightly independent dog. Thankfully, they do not bark often, only when they want to get attention or are alerting to an intruder. Although, because they are lovers and not fighters, they do not make good guard dogs and they aren’t that smart, but they are surprisingly highly trainable.
A table of the Bichon Frisé main features and attributes is below.
| Bichon Frisé | Bichon Frisé Features |
|---|---|
| Appearance | Body length longer than height, plumed tail, silky and fluffy curled double coat, dropped ears, black and dark brown round eyes |
| Height | 9 – 12 inches (23 – 30 kg) |
| Weight | 10 – 20 pounds (6 – 11 kg) |
| Characteristics | Cuddly, affectionate, full of personality, gentle, playful, needy, independent, curious, energetic |
| Energy Level | Regular (3 out of 5) |
| Shedding Level | Occasionally (1 out of 5) |
| Barking Level | Infrequently (2 out of 5) |
| Friendliness | Affectionate (4 out of 5) |
| Aggressiveness | Passive (2 out of 5) |
| Loyalty | Most Loyal (5 out of 5) |
18. Great Dane
Great Danes (Dane) are known as being one of the tallest breeds, in addition to their gentle giant natures. Originally bred in Germany to help noblemen hunt for boars and large prey in the 16th century, they were also utilized as protectors for humans and estates alike.
Today, the Great Dane dog breed is more likely to be a family pet, personal protection purely for intimidation reasons due to their sizes, or even a service animal for people with mobility issues.
With their deep, barrelled chest, long legs, lean muscle mass, and narrow flat heads, the appearance of Danes can be scary, but they are one of the most patient dogs who loves to play and nap.
One of the reasons they are considered a gentle giant, is because they are extremely patient with kids and people, and rarely bark except for in situations where they feel their family is being threatened.
To maintain a healthy weight ratio, prevent joint pains, and reduce the risk of heart disease and diabetes in Danes, it is important to feed them a balanced meal that is comprised of 23% to 30% protein and between 12 and 18% healthy fats. A nutritional diet will help ensure that these large dogs whose heights range from 28 – 32 inches (71 – 81 cm) and weights between 110 and 175 pounds (50 – 80 kg), live long, healthy lives.
Danes can also benefit from supplements such as omega-3 fatty acids to help keep their skin healthy and single coat soft and shiny. Even though they have a single coat that requires less maintenance than double coated breeds, it is still recommended to brush them once a week as they still shed regularly, trim their nails once a month, and bathe them at least once every 6 weeks.
Recognized in 1887 by the American Kennel Club, this working dog is an amazing family pet but is also diligent in guarding and protecting their family. Danes are strong, loving, and patient, which also make them great therapy dogs. And they are actually fairly agile, easily trained, and have amazing noses that help them excel at dog competitions.
| Great Dane | Great Dane Features |
|---|---|
| Appearance | Large, lean muscular bodies with a short, single coat; large narrow and square head with a flat top; droopy or cropped ears; barrel chest. |
| Height | 28 – 32 inches (71 – 81 cm) |
| Weight | 110 – 175 pounds (50 – 80 kg) |
| Characteristics | Intelligent, affectionate, loyal, friendly, kid-friendly, protective, and big lap dogs. |
| Energy Level | Regular (2 out of 5) |
| Shedding Level | Regularly (3 out of 5) |
| Barking Level | Average (3 out of 5) |
| Friendliness | Affectionate (5 out of 5) |
| Aggressiveness | Neutral (2 out of 5) |
| Loyalty | Most Loyal (5 out of 5) |
19. Maltese
The Maltese dog is named after the Island of Malta where it is said they originated 2500 years ago. The Maltese was originally bred to be a companion pet for the aristocratic and wealthy at the time. However, some Maltese dog fans claim this breed that exudes luxury, sophistication, and beauty has actually been around for 8,000 years.
Whether they originated 8,000 years ago or 2,500 years ago, the Maltese dog breed was highly valued, especially among ladies who were able to travel with this small toy breed as they hung out in their purses and even dress sleeves. At 7–9 inches (17.8–22.8 cm) and between 6–8 pounds (2.7–3.6 kg), they are still considered comforters and fantastic companion dogs that can travel almost anywhere with their owners.
Purposefully bred to be white, Maltese dog’s and their silky floor-length coat have been show-stoppers since 1888 when the American Kennel Club officially registered the breed. Additionally, they have excelled at being therapy dogs due to their loving personalities and mild demeanors. But don’t let their compact bodies and cute floppy ears fool you. The Maltese may be relatively low maintenance, but they are prone to experiencing separation anxiety and need companionship. They are protective of their owners that they bond closely with, and they aren’t a good choice for families with small kids. And when they are around other dogs,this first “fad dog” can irrationally try to fight bigger dogs.
When they aren’t a charming little lapdog, participating in agility courses or scent work, the Maltese dog and their curled over-the-back tail, can be picky, finicky eaters that sometimes need to be persuaded to eat. When choosing what to feed the Maltese, keep in mind that they only need about 180 to 360 calories a day, 22% protein and 10% fat to keep their elegant silky coat healthy, strong, and shiny. Make sure to avoid zero additives, but choose a food that has an enticing smell and a soft texture.
Maltese’s can live 12 to 15 long, healthy, happy years, when loved and properly cared for. To remain healthy, after providing a well-balanced diet, the Maltese needs only 30 minutes of playing fetch, playing, or going on a walk daily. And their non-shedding, hypoallergenic double coat needs to be groomed regularly. At least once a month, along with bathing, they need their ears cleaned, and their nails trimmed. Once every 6 weeks, they should be taken to a professional groomer to get their hair trimmed so they don’t trip on it. And while their teeth should be brushed multiple times a week due to being prone to dental disease, they should be brushed daily to prevent their long, silky hair from matting and tangling.
This bossy, demanding, people pleasing breed has been labeled as not intelligent. But, considering they know how to get what they want, they should be considered fairly smart. With that being said, with positive reinforcement, they are fairly easy to train and make great family pets, but they can be excessive barkers who just so happen be trusting, fun, and sweet.
A table of the Maltese Dog’s main features and attributes is below.
| Maltese | Maltese Features |
|---|---|
| Appearance | Silky floor length coat, compact body, floppy ears, sloping shoulders, curled over tails, brown eyes, rounded head |
| Height | 7–9 inches (17.8–22.8 cm) |
| Weight | 6–8 pounds (2.7–3.6 kg) |
| Characteristics | Patient, gentle, charming, adaptable, loving, sweet, obedient, trusting, bossy, people pleasers |
| Energy Level | Energetic (4 out of 5) |
| Shedding Level | Infrequently (1 out of 5) |
| Barking Level | Most (4 out of 5) |
| Friendliness | Affectionate (5 out of 5) |
| Aggressiveness | Passive (2 out of 5) |
| Loyalty | Most Loyal (5 out of 5) |
20. Australian Shepherd
The Australian Shepherd, Aussie or AS for short, is one of the more intelligent dog breeds in existence. However, they did not, in fact, originate from Australia. The modern Australian Shepherd is a mixture of British, Spanish, and Basque shepherds, and actually originated in the 1800s from the United States. Specifically, the breed we know and love today started in California. Originally bred for sheep herding purposes, the Aussie is also now utilized for search and rescue purposes and helping police detect bombs and drugs, as well as herding.
With a population of roughly 1.5 million in the United States, the Australian Shepherd dog breed was only recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC) in 1991, and joined the herding group in 1993. Today’s Australian Shepherds were developed in the western states of the USA, and descend from quite a wide variety of collies, including Scottish, British, German, Spanish, Welsh, and Basque sheepdogs.
Australian shepherds have 16 different coat color combinations, are medium sized, have a long neck, a double coat with dense and thick topcoat, erect or semi-erect ears, long and low-hanging tails, and are a very athletic breed, making them both great agility dogs and wonderful farm dogs.
Australian Shepherds range in weight from 26 to 55 pounds (12 – 25 kg) and in size from 18 to 23 inches (46 to 58 cm) with female Aussies on the smaller size in both height and weight.
Living 11 to 15 years on average, Aussies are not just intelligent and easy to train, but are also extremely loyal, highly energetic, loving, and independent. With proper training, grooming, nutrition, healthcare, and exercise, Australian Shepherds that are prone to separation anxiety, stranger danger, and those afraid of loud noises or aggressive towards other animals and new environments, with the use of positive, constructive reinforcement can help ensure the Aussie lives a long, healthy, happy life.
To keep up with their high energy needs, Aussies must be fed a balanced diet high in protein, good fats like salmon oil, and carbohydrates such as sweet potato, to maintain their stamina and vitality.
In addition, to maintain their thick, long, double coat and keep it healthy and strong, they should be brushed with a slicker brush and undercoat rake at least one time a week to limit shedding and rid debris and bathed no more than once a month, unless stinky or dirty.
Due to their herding instincts, Aussies are known to be excessive barkers. Rewarding appropropriate barking and redirecting inappropriate barking – will help reduce unwarranted barking. Regardless of barking levels, Aussies make great companions for those who live active lifestyles. Aussies love swimming, running, brain games, playing fetch, and agility training.
| Australian Shepherd | Australian Shepherd Features |
|---|---|
| Appearance | 16 different coat color combinations, medium-size, long neck, double coat, erect or semi-erect ears, long and low-hanging tails, athletic bodies, |
| Height | 18 to 23 inches (46 to 58 cm) |
| Weight | 26 to 55 pounds (12 – 25 kg) |
| Characteristics | Loyal, smart, responsive, energetic, loving, hard workers, active |
| Energy Level | High-Level (5 out of 5) |
| Shedding Level | Frequently (4 out of 5) |
| Barking Level | Loudest (4 out of 5) |
| Friendliness | Affectionate (4 out of 5) |
| Aggressiveness | Neutral (3 out of 5) |
| Loyalty | Most Loyal (5 out of 5) |
21. English Cocker Spaniel
English Cocker Spaniel’s (ECS) were said to have originated in Spain during the 14th century as one of 15 different spaniel dog breeds. By the 1800s, Spaniels were divided into two different groups – toy dogs, or companions, and hunting dogs. The ECS breed was firmly recognized as a hunting dog as they were originally bred to help hunters flush out and then retrieve gamebirds such as the Eurasian Woodcock.
In 1892, this adaptable and naturally curious English Cocker Spaniel dog breed were officially registered in the England Kennel Club. Nearly 50 years later, the American Kennel Club (AKC) registered the breed in 1946 as part of the Sporting Group. Today, English Cocker Spaniel’s still hunt for gamebirds, but they also are bred now as show dogs, and love to participate in agility courses, flyball sports, and competition training.
These incredibly smart dogs, weighing in at only 26 – 34 pounds (12 – 15.5 kg) and standing tall at 15 – 17 inches (38 – 43 cm), have long, silky hair that needs to be brushed at least once a week and their hair around their neck, face, tail, ears, and feet trimmed monthly. To keep their coat healthy and their energy levels high, these devoted and friendly dogs need plenty of exercise and a well balanced diet of 700 to 900 calories per day with at least 25% protein.
For prospective English Cocker Spaniel owners, keep in mind that because they were originally bred to be hunting dogs, the 20th smartest dog bark excessively. Plenty of physical exercise, mental stimulation, training, and socialization, will go a long way in curbing this behavior.
An ECS that will be extremely loyal, affectionate, and adaptable despite let their excessive, high pitched barking. In fact, registered with the American Kennel Club (AKC) in 1946, they are currently number 40 in popularity out of all 200 plus breeds registered. These cuddly compact breeds that are taller than they are longer, with their cute floppy pendant shaped ears, provide companionship for a loving family for 12 to 14 cheerful years.
To ensure the English Cocker Spaniel remains happy and healthy, make sure they are properly groomed consistently and regularly as their silky coats can easily become matted and tangled. Every month, they need their hair feathers and nails trimmed, their ears checked and teeth brushed weekly, bathed no more than once a week, and their beautiful coat brushed at least once a week.
Whether they are raised to be a hunting dog, a show dog, or a family companion dog, English Cocker Spaniels fully embrace every trait they have earned.
A table of the English Cocker Spaniel’s main features and attributes is below.
| English Cocker Spaniel | English Cocker Spaniel Features |
|---|---|
| Appearance | Colors: black, golden, black & white, Black, Liver, Blue Roan, Blue Roan & Tan, Liver Roan & Tan, Orange & White, Orange Roan, Red, Black & Tan, Black, White & Tan, Liver & Tan, Liver, White & Tan, Red Roan, and Lemon Roan according to the breed standard. Non-standard colors include Sable, Red & White, Lemon & White, Sable & Tan, and Sable & White; Long square nose, floppy pendant ears, silky long soft coats, compact, sturdy, soft head, feathering on legs, chest, belly. |
| Height | 15 – 17 inches (38 – 43 cm) |
| Weight | 26 – 34 pounds (12 – 15.5 kg) |
| Characteristics | Cheerful, curious, loyal, sensitive, devoted, smart, energetic, adaptable, Affectionate, merry, playful, attached to humans |
| Energy Level | Medium-Level (3 out of 5) However, this number is due to the balance of high-energy times and more relaxed cuddle times that the breed requires. |
| Shedding Level | Seasonally and regularly (3 out of 5) |
| Barking Level | Most (3 out of 5) |
| Friendliness | Affectionate (5 out of 5) |
| Aggressiveness | Passive (3 out of 5) |
| Loyalty | Most Loyal (5 out of 5) |
22. Chow Chow
The Chow Chow (Chow for short), originated about 2,000 years ago and utilized as guard dogs, hunters, herders, and sled-pullers due to their size, strength, and speed.
With their unique tongue coloring of blue-black or purple, their large heads, straight and stiff back legs, almond shaped eggs, and large heads covered in thick fur making them look dignified and coveted.
Some people theorize that the Chow Chow dog breed actually originated in Arctic Asia 3,000 years earlier and then migrated to China during the Han Dynasty (206 BCE – 220 CE), where they can be found gracing scriptures, paintings, and used as the model for stone lion statues that can be found protecting and guarding Buddhist temples.
It is said that a Chinese emperor owned over 5000 Chows for the explicit purpose of fighting wars. Whether that is myth or legend, Martha Stewart has owned multiple Chow Chows over the years, along with President Calvin Coolidge and Elvis Presely.
Introduced to the UK in the 1820s, and the United States by the 1890s, Chows today, recognized in 1903 as a non-sporting dog by the American Kennel Club (AKC), are primarily household pets and companion animals. Sitting at roughly 25 pounds heavier than the Chows from the Han Dynasty, they are not an active breed, or a high energy breed. Due to their heavy coats, they do not do well when overheated or in warm climates and require shade or air conditioning to stay cool.
Chows have either a smooth coat with thick, medium length fur, or a rough coat that is extremely dense. Chows must be brushed down to their skin regularly to avoid severe matting. While smooth Chows only need their coat brushed twice a week and the coat of rough Chows must be brushed daily or every other day, Chows should be bathed, their nails trimmed, ears cleaned, and eyes checked once a month to ensure they remain healthy.
Looking like a cross between a bear and a lion, Chows are independent, stubborn, hard to train, yet also loyal, patient, and great watchdogs or protection dogs. While most Chows are not very friendly towards strange animals and humans, with proper training and early socialization, Chow Chows are clean, quiet, and cuddly.
Standing tall at 18 – 22 inches (46 to 56 cm) depending on gender and weighing in at 45 – 70 pounds (20 – 32 kg), Chows live, on average, 8 to 12 years. But, they are susceptible to dislocated kneecaps (Patellar Luxation), hip dysplasia, diabetes, and turned-in eyelids (Entropion). So, to keep them healthy and to prevent bone defect issues or growing pains, it is important that they are 1000 – 1300 kcal/day of a diet low in fat but high in protein and calcium.
| Chow Chow | Chow Chow Features |
|---|---|
| Appearance | Blue-black or purple tongues; Coat colors – reddish brown, black, blue-grey; thick lion’s mane type fur around head and shoulders; straight back legs; curled tails over back or to the sides |
| Height | 18 – 22 inches (46 to 56 cm) |
| Weight | 45 – 70 pounds (20 – 32 kg) |
| Characteristics | Watchdog, protective, loyal, independent, stubborn, patient, reserved, |
| Energy Level | Medium (3 out of 5) |
| Shedding Level | Regularly (4 out of 5) |
| Barking Level | Infrequently (1 out of 5) |
| Friendliness | Independent (3 out of 5) |
| Aggressiveness | Aggressive (3 out of 5) |
| Loyalty | Most Loyal (5 out of 5) |
23. Pomeranian
The Pomeranian – also affectionately called Poms and Pom Poms – may be small, but they have large personalities. These large personalities are leftover from their origins as descendents of the Sitz breeds from the Artic that include Samoyed’s, Alaskan Malamutes, and Norwegian Elkhounds.
The Pomeranian dog breed were originally bred to be sheep herding dogs, rodent and bird hunters, guard dogs, and even to pull sleds in Iceland and averaged closer to 30 pounds. However, with the help of Queen Charlotte and Queen Victoria in the 18th and 19th centuries, their size decreased by at least 50% so they could become lap dogs.
Pomeranians continued to grow in popularity after the public saw Queen Victoria take her little Pom Poms everywhere. But, before the modern day Pomeranian was bred, Mozart, Michelangelo, and Chopin all either owned a Pom or were inspired by one.
Pomeranians were officially recognized in 1888 by the AKC (American Kennel Club) and today, rank 23rd out of 280 AKC dog breeds in terms of popularity. Part of their popularity is because, while they are high energy, they make great dogs for apartment dwellers, or people with small homes. Poms do not need a yard. Owners can play with them inside to get their energy out.
With their foxlike head, small pointed and upright ears, plumed tail, and square small bodies hidden underneath a double coat. These fiery, feisty, smart, confident, perky, and loyal 3 to 7 pounds (1.5 to 3 kg) dogs can live a long life of 12 to 16 years. Standing at 6 to 7 inches (15 to 18 cm) tall, this small, toy sized breed make great therapy dogs as well as hearing assistance dogs when they aren’t participating in obedience competitions or agility events.
Pom poms are a highly energetic breed that come in a wide variety of colors and patterns. They can also be heavy shedders who require their teeth and coats brushed 2 to 3 brushings per week, and their nails trimmed and bathed once a month. Because Poms are more susceptible to ear and tooth infections than other breeds, it is important to check both areas every time they are brushed or groomed.
To keep Poms healthy and prevent common health issues such as dislocation of their kneecaps, Alopecia X (hair loss), diabetes, and hypothyroidism, it is important to provide a diet that comprises of 30% protein and 15 – 20% fat. These proportions will help keep energy levels sufficient and metabolisms regulated.
The Pomeranian breed is considered the 23rd smartest dog breed by the study and research by Stanley Coren, helping them excel at obedience training. However, even though they are a fairly smart dog, they are excessive barkers, making them great watchdogs that love to alert, and more importantly, these little sassy dogs make great family pets and companions. The only high maintenance aspect of owning and caring for this breed, is taking care of their coats.
| Pomeranian | Pomeranian Features |
|---|---|
| Appearance | Colors: orange, red, cream, black, blue, beaver, white, chocolate, blue merle, blue brindle, chocolate merle, blue sable, black & tan, blue & tan, chocolate & tan, cream sable, orange sable, red sable, beaver sable, chocolate sable, wolf sable, black & brindle, brindle, and tri-colored; Multiple different colors and patterns, small round bodies, foxlike head, erect triangle ears, almond-shaped eyes |
| Height | 6 to 7 inches (15 to 18 cm) |
| Weight | 3 to 7 pounds (1.5 to 3 kg) |
| Characteristics | Cheery, perky, alert, smart, confident, fun, sassy, playful |
| Energy Level | High-Level (3 out of 5) |
| Shedding Level | Regularly (2 out of 5) |
| Barking Level | Excessive (4 out of 5) |
| Friendliness | Affectionate (3 out of 5) |
| Aggressiveness | Aggressive (4 out of 5) |
| Loyalty | Loyal (5 out of 5) |
24. Yorkshire Terrier
Yorkshire Terriers, also known as Yorkies, were originally bred to help miners, mill workers, and hunters hunt and track small rodents in the mid 1800s during the Industrial Revolution. It wasn’t until the Victorian Times that the Yorkshire Terrier dog breed became not only symbols of wealth but also the playful, coveted, loyal toy lapdog we know today.
While no official records exist, it is believed that today’s Yorkies were bred from various breeds of small terriers that Scottish miners and mill workers brought to Yorkshire, England and officially named after the breeds area of origin in 1874.
Today, even though they still have their terrier hunting instincts, Yorkies are loving companions, family pets, and one of the most popular breeds due to their small size and feisty personality. Recognized in 1885 by the American Kennel club (AKC), Yorkies are currently ranked 13th most popular of 280 breeds. Partly because they make great apartment dogs.
Yorkshire Terriers, when not being bossy or playful, do not require much physical activity. When they aren’t bonding to the one that provides the most care, preferably in small sized kibble amounts with 35% protein to help their small muscles grow, Yorkies are curious and brave and love their families.
Weighing only 4 – 12 lbs (1.8 – 5.4 kg) and standing tall at 7 – 9 inches (18 – 23 cm), they love to cuddle and snuggle into soft, fluffy places when they aren’t barking loudly at strangers and being bossy watchdogs.
Living between 13 and 16 years, these smart dogs with a long, silky, floor length coat, are actually hypoallergenic. However, their black and tan coats require constant grooming. This includes daily brushing, brushing their teeth 3 times a week, clean ears once a month, and 1 to 2 baths and nail trimming sessions a month. If owners are unable to properly groom their Yorkies, it is imperative to take them to a professional groomer to ensure their hair stays healthy.
A table of the Yorkshire Terrier’s main features and attributes is below.
| Yorkshire Terrier | Yorkshire Terrier Features |
|---|---|
| Appearance | Colors: Blue & Gold Blue & Tan, Black & Tan, Black & Gold; Floor length silky hair, black and tan color, dark eyes and dark eye rims, triangle shaped upright ears |
| Height | 7 – 9 inches (18 – 23 cm) |
| Weight | 4 – 12 lbs (1.8 – 5.4 kg) |
| Characteristics | Playful, feisty, sensitive, curious, loving, loyal, cuddlers |
| Energy Level | Energetic (4 out of 5) |
| Shedding Level | Occasionally (1 out of 5) |
| Barking Level | Most and Loud (4 out of 5) |
| Friendliness | Affectionate (5 out of 5) |
| Aggressiveness | Neutral (3 out of 5) |
| Loyalty | Most Loyal (5 out of 5) |
25. Pembroke Welsh Corgi
The Pembroke Welsh Corgi (Pembrooks, PWCs, Pem, Corgi), named after Pembrokeshire, Wales where they are said to have originated as an all-purpose farm and companion dog. From hunting rodents to livestock herding and guarding companions and farm alike, this short legged, long bodied breed is quick, agile, and affectionate.
By the 1850s, Corgis were found on nearly every farm in Wales helping their handlers with cattle, sheep, and horses. Today, Border Collies have mostly replaced Corgi’s as the all-around farm dog, but they are still utilized as herders and for rodent control and considered the smallest breed in the AKC Herding Group.
With a head shaped like a fox, docked tails, dark eyes and erect ears, Corgis can be black and tan, fawn, sable, and most commonly, red and white. Additionally, most have white markings on their legs and chest, creating a “fairie saddle”, a throwback to the legend of Pembrook Welsh Corgis originating from the lairs of fairies and elves that rode them throughout Pembrokeshire.
It is unknown whether Corgis are descendants of the Swedish cattle dog – the Vallhund – that was brought to Wales during the 9th or 10th century by Vikings, or if they were brought to Wales in the 12th century by Flemish weavers. Regardless of their origin, this lively dog can become destructive, stubborn, and bossy when not given proper attention.
To properly care for these very vocal watchdogs and to ensure they live a long, healthy 11 to 13 years, they do require at least 1 hour of purposeful activity per day. Activities such as walking, jogging, tracking activities, herding events, and agility competitions
Additionally, because they are prone to obesity and sensitive stomachs, it is important to keep an eye on their nutritional intake and make sure they get at least 18% protein, 5% fat, and 4% fiber in their daily diet. On average, Pembroke Welsh Corgis need about 350 daily calories. Less active or older Corgi’s need between 300 and 400 calories per day, while active Corgis need between 400 to 500 calories per day.
The Pembroke Welsh Corgi dog breed has an average weight of 30 pounds (4.5kg). Male Pembroke Welsh Corgis have an average weight of 30-35 lb (13-15kg) and females have an average weight of 28-30 lb (12-13 kg). Males have an average height of 12-13 inches (30-35cm) and females have an average height of 10-12 inches (28-32cm).
As long as their nutrition is appropriate, and they are given proper attention, training, and socialization, these little fluffballs are great with kids, are highly people oriented and eager to learn new skills, earning them the 11th most popular breed (out of 280 recognized breeds) according to the American Kennel Club. Their popularity can also be due to Queen Elizabeth II owning more than 30 Royal corgis while she reigned.
All prospective owners should keep in mind that, while Corgis make great companions, not only do they have a tendency to nip at heels because of their hunting instincts, but they do shed a lot. Their medium length double coat must be brushed more than once a week to stay on top of their shedding, their teeth brushed 2 to 3 times a week, nails trimmed once to twice a month, ears checked weekly, and bathed at least once a month.
These corgis have short stubby tails that rest close to their bodies and a small muscular body and a low chest. Typical health issues include hip dysplasia, eye disorders, and degenerative myelopathy.
With proper care and attention, the Pembroke Welsh Corgi makes a wonderful addition to any home – farm and apartment alike.
A table of the Pembroke Welsh Corgi’s main features and attributes is below.
26. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
| Pembroke Welsh Corgi | Pembroke Welsh Corgi Features |
|---|---|
| Appearance | Short legs, long bodies, docked tails, fox shaped head, oval eyes, pointed V-shaped ears, fairy saddle, low chest, colors: black and tan, red, sable, fawn |
| Height | 10-13 inches (25 – 32 cm) |
| Weight | 22 – 30 lbs (10 – 13 kg) |
| Characteristics | Agile, athletic, happy, people oriented, kid friendly, affectionate, stubborn, bossy, strong-willed, smart |
| Energy Level | High-Level (5 out of 5) |
| Shedding Level | Frequently (4 out of 5) |
| Barking Level | Average (4 out of 5) |
| Friendliness | Affectionate (4 out of 5) |
| Aggressiveness | Neutral (3 out of 5) |
| Loyalty | Most Loyal (5 out of 5) |
Cavalier King Charles Spaniels (Charlies) were bred for the specific purpose of being lap dogs, foot warmers, companion animals, and a sign of wealth and nobility. In the 17th century, King Charles II was rarely seen without one of his toy spaniels, and put his dogs above most everything, including politics. The “cavalier” King’s love of this breed is how they became known as the Cavalier King Charles Spaniels.
Cavalier King Charles Spaniels nearly were extinct as a result of Queen Mary and King William III taking the throne, they preferred pugs, causing this breed to nearly go extinct. To preserve the Cavalier King Charles Spaniels, some remaining dogs were crossbred with the pugs Queen Mary loved so much. This resulted in a flatter nose, round head, and eyes that protruded from their upturned faces.
Two centuries later, American breeders took it upon themselves to bring the line of true Cavalier King Charles Spaniels back to prominence. Eventually, they found 6 remaining Charlies that now all modern Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are descended from.
Today, Charlies are still companion animals and lap dogs who need and demand constant attention, making them great as therapy dogs. Recognized as one of the largest toy breeds in 1995 by the American Kennel Club (AKC), the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel and their large round eyes, silky coat and feathering tails that are constantly wagging, rank 14th most popular breed in the US.
Not only are Charlies a family dog that is rarely aggressive and up for anything to do with their humans, but they are perfect animals for condos and homes with large yards alike. With a height of 12 – 13 inches (30.5 – 33 kg) and weighing just 13 to 18 pounds (6 to 8 kg), this breed can get their exercise in with asmall yard or with daily walks.
Cavalier King Charles Spaniels also love participating in agility competitions, flyball, running, hiking, and even rally events. So long as their humans are with them because they do have what is considered a dependent personality. Their happiness revolves around the attention their family gives them. This need for attention causes a high rate of separation anxiety amongst Charlies, causing them to be excessive barkers at times when left alone.
With that being said, Charlies can live a long, healthy 12 to 15 years with proper nutrition, care, and attention. Nutrition includes 340 to 475 calories per day that has 18 – 20% protein, healthy fat, healthy carbs, and vitamins. Care includes brushing no less than once a week to prevent any matting or tangling that can happen in their silky, wavy hair. They also need their nails trimmed 1 to 2 times a month, their teeth brushed 2 to 3 times a week, and a bath and hair trim 3 to 4 times a year. Attention requires constant loving companionship.
Provide all three – nutrition, care, and attention – and the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel makes a wonderful companion, family pet, and lap warmer.
A table of the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel’s main features and attributes is below.
| Cavalier King Charles Spaniel | Cavalier King Charles Spaniel Features |
|---|---|
| Appearance | Short legs, wavy coat, feathering on tail, legs, ears and chest, floppy ears, brown eyes; Colors: Blenheim (rich chestnut and white), Tricolor – black, white, and tan, Black and tan, Ruby |
| Height | 12 – 13 inches (30.5 – 33 kg) |
| Weight | 13 – 18 pounds (6 – 8 kg) |
| Characteristics | Adaptable, patient, protective, loving, friendly, eager to please, constantly moving tail |
| Energy Level | Energetic (4 out of 5) |
| Shedding Level | Regularly (3 out of 5) |
| Barking Level | Infrequently (2 out of 5) |
| Friendliness | Affectionate (5 out of 5) |
| Aggressiveness | Passive (1 out of 5) |
| Loyalty | Most Loyal (5 out of 5) |
27. Anatolian Shepherd Dog
The Anatolian Shepherd dog (Kangal or ASD) originated in Anatolia, now modern day Turkey, for the purpose of living amongst livestock, keeping them calm, and protecting them from predators. To this day, they are still utilized as livestock guardians. The Anatolian Shepherd helps protect endangered species as part of the Endangered Species Act formed in 1973, and as of 1994, they protect endangered Cheetahs in Namibia.
Bred to survive independently while protecting flock on harsh terrains, the Anatolian Shepherd has been around since 2000 B.C., or 4,000 years, but was imported into the US just recently, in the 1950s because of how devoted and protective they are. Not only of their flocks, but also of their family.
The Kangal can be recognized for its extra large aerodynamic body, long legs, square brown or black nose, hanging v-shaped ears, and coats that come in various shades of beige. This powerful dog does not let its size hamper their purpose of protecting the defenseless. Reaching speeds of up to 30 mph, when their tail is curled high above their backs, they are signaling that they have detected a potential threat.
While the color of an Anatolian Shepherd breed’s coat is similar to the animals they are protecting, it is not for the purpose of blending in but to keep their flock calm. So, when they see that tail rise, they know to run.
With that being said, because protective instincts are in their DNA, this beautiful breed is not recommended for first time dog owners. They need a firm hand from a natural leader. They require early training and socialization. And they must have a lot of roaming space available to them.
Sitting between 80 – 150 pounds (36 – 68 kg) and an average height of 27 – 29 inches (68.5 – 73.6 cm), these dogs are loving and playful, but may not make the best companion for a family with little kids as they tend to knock them over unintentionally and can be dominating and possessive. A Kangal needs to be supervised at all times when around strangers as they take their protective and guardian skills seriously.
Because the Anatolian Shepherd dog breed was bred to be independent, their thick coat is fairly low maintenance. They do have a dense undercoat so it is a good idea to brush. Some Kangals have short, 1 inch long hair, and others have a rough, 4 inch coat, they do heavily shed twice a year during spring and fall and will require more frequent brushing. Additionally, twice a week their teeth should be brushed, and once a month, they should have their nails trimmed and a bath provided to remove any built up debris and dirt.
These smart canines need at least an hour of exercise per day on top of 4 to 6 cups of well balanced dog chow a day to remain healthy and happy. With the proper care, attention, and understanding of this breed, on average, they live a fulfilling 11 to 13 years.
A table of the Anatolian Shepherd Dog’s main features and attributes is below.
| Anatolian Shepherd Dog | Anatolian Shepherd Dog Features |
|---|---|
| Appearance | Hanging v-shaped ears, almond shaped brown or amber eyes, square muzzle, brown or black nose, aerodynamic bodies, colors: Fawn with black masks, red, grey, blue fawn, biscuit and white, brindle or pinto markings |
| Height | 27 – 29 inches (68.5 – 73.6 cm) |
| Weight | 80 – 150 pounds (36 – 68 kg) |
| Characteristics | Loving, calm, protective, reserved, playful, devoted, dominating, demanding, independent, smart, alert |
| Energy Level | High-Level (4 out of 5) |
| Shedding Level | Seasonally (3 out of 5) |
| Barking Level | Most (5 out of 5) |
| Friendliness | Affectionate towards family only (4 out of 5) |
| Aggressiveness | Aggressive (4 out of 5) |
| Loyalty | Most Loyal (5 out of 5) |
28. Basset Hound
Basset Hounds (hush puppies) are a dog breed originating from France and were bred to be low to the ground so hunters who couldn’t afford horses could easily keep up with their dogs and so that their long ears could trap the scent of game.
Breed development of the dog’s characteristics began around the 16th century and continued until the 19th century after all of the desirable traits by hunters were produced. Through the centuries, The Basset Hound dog breed was used in packs to track deer and rabbits in the French countryside.
In 1883, two male and female pairs were the first to be introduced to the United States. According to the American Kennel Club (AKC), one pair was brought to Texas, the other sent to New Jersey to breed for rabbit hunting. In 1885, the Basset Hound was officially recognized as a breed by the AKC.
Basset Hounds are still used to help track scents and as hunting companions, but are primarily companion animals. Companion animals that love to cuddle, are low-key lazy, but also gentle, loving, and good with kids. Although, they are known to be excessive droolers.
Basset hounds, while they would lounge all day, were still built for endurance, not speed, and do require at least one hour of physical activity every day to ensure they do not gain too much weight.
With proper exercise and providing a well-balanced diet of 1100 to 1600 cals per day that consist of 21% protein, 5% fat, and wholesome vegetables and minerals, these low maintenance hounds that only require weekly coat brushings and ear checks, can live, on average, 12 to 13 happy, healthy years.
A table of the Basset Hound’s main features and attributes is below.
| Basset Hound | Basset Hound Features |
|---|---|
| Appearance | Long ears that trail, short legs, long body, sad looking eyes, wrinkly skin around face and neck, large head, colors: black, red, and white, blue and white, brown and white, tan and white. |
| Height | 11 – 15 inches (28 – 38 cm) |
| Weight | 40 – 65 pounds (18 – 29.5 kg) |
| Characteristics | Friendly, loyal, low-key, sweet, gentle, excessive drooler, cuddler, stubborn |
| Energy Level | Calm, Regular, Energetic, High-Level (x out of 5) |
| Shedding Level | Regularly (4 out of 5) |
| Barking Level | Average (2 out of 5) |
| Friendliness | Affectionate (5 out of 5) |
| Aggressiveness | Passive (1 out of 5) |
| Loyalty | Loyal (4 out of 5) |
29. Newfoundland Dog
Originating from Newfoundland Island, Canada, the Newfoundland dog breed (Newfies, Newfie) has a long reputation has an amazing water rescuer and a companion, helpingfishermen with their nets and hauling wood or ropes.
Their strong legs, large lungs, webbed paws and oily coarse coat aid in their love of swimming and saving people and animals in water rescues.
In the late 1700s, Newfies were bred to be draft animals that hauled loads and pull carts. Today, they are still utilized for their skills as water rescuers, but they are also show dogs, family pets, and even therapy dogs due to their sweet and loyal temperament. In fact, Newfoundland dogs are often referred to as the “nanny dog” due to how watchful and patient they are with their family members, and, sometimes, strangers and intruders.
Recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC) in 1886, the Newfoundland dog breed are currently the 42nd most popular breed today. And even though they are considered an extra large dog that stands tall at 26 to 28 inches (66 to 71 cm) and weighs, on average, 100 to 150 pounds (45 to 68 kg), they love to cuddle with their humans.
While they are large lapdogs and would love to sleep all day, Newfies need at least one hour a day of exercise that can include swimming, pulling, and walking, to keep their bodies healthy and moving for 8 to 10 happy years.
When they aren’t being brushed daily, bathed weekly, or have their nails trimmed monthly and teeth brushed twice a week, Newfies grow fast at the beginning of their lives and require proper nutrition to keep up with their growth. In one year, they will grow as much as a human grows from birth to adulthood. To keep up with their metabolism, these big fluffy lovers need between 1900 and 2700 calories per day and a diet specifically made for extra large dogs that consists of at least 18% protein and 5% fat.
A table of the Newfoundland Dog’s main features and attributes is below.
| Newfoundland Dog | Newfoundland Dog Features |
|---|---|
| Appearance | Colors: solid black, brown, grey, white splashes on chest and tail, strong back legs, flat and coarse oily coat, wide and deep muzzle, droopy eyes, strong back, arched crown on head |
| Height | 26 to 28 inches (66 to 71 cm) |
| Weight | 100 to 150 pounds (45 to 68 kg) |
| Characteristics | Patient, watchful, protective, curious, easy-going, loving, outgoing |
| Energy Level | Regular (3 out of 5) |
| Shedding Level | Excessive (5 out of 5) |
| Barking Level | Infrequently (1 out of 5) |
| Friendliness | Affectionate (4 out of 5) |
| Aggressiveness | Passive (2 out of 5) |
| Loyalty | Most Loyal (5 out of 5) |
30. Belgian Shepherd
The Belgian Shepherd is a dog breed native to Belgium. While bred during the 1800s for working farms, guarding families, herding sheep and cattle, and protecting fields of drying linen, they were not officially recognized until 1901.
At that point, there was not just 1 Belgian Shepherd, but 4 different varieties of Belgian Shepherds that originated from 4 different villages across Belgium. The 4 varieties of the Belgian Shepherd dog breed are the Belgian Shepherd Malinois, Belgian Shepherd Groenendael, Belgian Shepherd Tervuren and the Belgian Shepherd Laekenois.
First, The Belgian Shepherd Malinois, originating from Malines, Belgium, has the shortest coat of the four and is the one variety that is recruited to be police dogs, help search and rescue teams, guide dogs, detection dogs, and is known to skydive with their military handlers and alone when landing in water.
Second, The Belgian Shepherd Groenendael, originating from Groenendael, Belgium, is the most popular of the Belgian Shepherd breeds. Referred to as the Belgian Sheepdog, this variety has a deep black, thick, long, double coat. Some might even have spots of chocolate in their coat.
Third, The Belgian Shepherd Tervuren, originating from Tervuren, Belgium, looks similar to the other 3 varieties in body shape and size, but their reddish brown coat is smoother and longer around their tail and head. While they are strong and energetic, the Tervuren is better suited as a companion for active owners.
The fourth type of Belgian Shepherd is the Laekenois. Originating in the village of Laeken outside of Brussels, this variety was the first Belgian Shepherd recognized in the 19th century. The Laekenois also has the most unique coat of those four. Considered the “hippy” version of the Malinois, they have a shaggy, rough, coat with no defined mask whose coat colors can be red, fawn, and mahogany.
Besides originating in different locations, the main difference between the 4 varities are their coats because they were bred for work, not for appearance. All are hard workers, loyal, with muscular bodies that require daily exercise.
While not every kennel club recognizes the four different Belgian Shepherds, the Belgian Shepherd breed is known for their loyalty, their need for exercise, their craving for human companionship, and their brave, affectionate, and protective instincts.
With their compact size and lightning speed, the Belgian Shepherd is a medium sized dog that requires a lot of training and socialization from a very early age. With that being said, the Malinois specifically, is not a good dog for first time owners. They demand rigorous mental stimulation and can become frustrated and disobedient when they do not have a task or a job to do.
As a whole, the Belgian Shepherd breed ranges from 22 – 26 inches (56 – 66 cm) in height and 45 – 75 pounds (20.5 – 34 kg) in weight, a body size that allows them to be quick, versatile, and agile on their feet
With a diet rich in 23 – 25% protein, 8 – 10% fat, and enough carbs to keep their metabolism high and their physical condition in shape, this beautiful, brave, affectionate breed can live a long, happy, healthy 12 to 14 years. Thankfully, even though they can be an intense breed, they are very easy to train and love their human companions unconditionally.
A table of the Belgian Shepherd’s main features and attributes is below.
| Belgian Shepherd | Belgian Shepherd Features |
|---|---|
| Appearance | Coat: black, brindle, cream, fawn, red, brown; long head, upright ears, lean, muscular, square body, Coat lengths: short double coat, shaggy and rough; smooth and thick, thick and long. |
| Height | Female: 22 – 24 inches (56 – 61 cm)Male: 24 – 26 inches (61 – 66 cm) |
| Weight | Female: 45 – 60 pounds (20.4 – 27 kg) Male: 22 – 24 inches (56 – 61 cm) |
| Characteristics | Alert, protective, hard workers, versatile, smart, sensitive, vigilant, easily trainable, athletic |
| Energy Level | High-Level (5 out of 5) |
| Shedding Level | Seasonally (2 out of 5) |
| Barking Level | Average (4 out of 5) |
| Friendliness | Affectionate (5 out of 5) |
| Aggressiveness | Aggressive (3 out of 5) |
| Loyalty | Most Loyal (5 out of 5) |
31. Basenji
Basenji also known as the “barkless dog from Africa”, can have their lineage traced back to the Stone Age according to historians.
One of the oldest dog breeds to persevere, this breed can be seen depicted in Libyan cave paintings that date back 6000 B.C. and were companions of Ancient Egyptian Pharohs 5,000 years ago. Bred to hunt, direct prey into the nets of hunters, and help remove village rodents, Basenjis still help hunters in the African Congo to catch prey, but they are also family pets and show dogs around the globe.
As one of the oldest dog breeds, the Basenji has hunting and protective instincts that are deeply ingrained. The Basenji dog breed has a high prey drive, are escape artists, will climb trees to see their domain, do not do well with small pets, and they have endless energy. With that being said, they were bred to run and hunt with a pack and, while independent, are fiercely protective of their families. They are cuddlers, love to play, and are highly inquisitive and intelligent.
Basenjis are independent, and because of their independence combined with their energetic curiosity, this breed is not for beginning dog owners. They can be manipulative and aloof, resulting in a dog that is not easy to train. But, with early training and socialization, these dogs are very loyal to their family, even when they bond closer to one member of the family.
While also known as the “barkless dog”, the Basenji does, in fact, communicate through a yodel-like sound instead. This is due to their unusual shaped narrow larynx and shorter vocal chords. Regardless of not being able to bark, they still are great watchdogs.
While Basenjis might have been around 8,000 years or more, their size hasn’t varied much. They still have long legs for speed, large upright ears for tracking, and a tightly curved tail to keep away from prey. As a medium sized breed standing tall at 16 – 17 inches (40.6 – 43 cm) and being light on their feet at 22 – 24 pounds (10 – 11 kg), they are still agile, fast, and athletic with endless energy to run, chase and hunt, or play with their family.
Additionally, because of their independence, they are self-cleaners, able to keep their double coat clean. It is still a good idea to brush their teeth and coat once a week, and trim their nails once a month. In terms of bathing them, they only need a bath when they are really dirty or stinky.
With the proper care and attention, and a diet full of proteins and carbs to keep their energy high and metabolism working effectively, this ancient dog breed can live a long, healthy, happy 13 to 14 years.
A table of the Basenji’s main features and attributes is below.
| Basenji | Basenji Features |
|---|---|
| Appearance | Color: red, black, black and tan, brindle; large upright ears, high head, athletic form, short coat, almond-shaped eyes, wedge shaped head |
| Height | 16 – 17 inches (40.6 – 43 cm) |
| Weight | 22 – 24 pounds (10 – 11 kg) |
| Characteristics | Protective, loyal, independent, energetic, active, climbers, high prey drive, loving, cuddler |
| Energy Level | High-Level (5 out of 5) |
| Shedding Level | Seasonally (2 out of 5) |
| Barking Level | Infrequently (1 out of 5) |
| Friendliness | Affectionate towards family and pack (4 out of 5) |
| Aggressiveness | Aggressive (3 out of 5) |
| Loyalty | Loyal (4 out of 5) |
32. Havanese
The Havanese dog breed is the national dog of Cuba and the only dog that is natively Cuban. Locally referred to as “Blanquito de la Habana” (Havana Silk Dog), these dogs were only given as gifts between the wealthy and upperclass of the Spanish, French, and British during the 18th and 19th century.
Considered high-end and unable to be purchased until the 1950s, they were originally bred to be companions and family pets. They are still companions and in fact, are frequently utilized as therapy dogs due to their adaptable, loyal, friendly, and gentle temperaments. Not only are they a great breed for a family with young kids, but they are also a constant companion for seniors looking for a faithful friend.
The Havanese dog breed has many Obedience Trial Champion (OTCH) and Master Agility Champion (MACH) titles, and has been given the moniker, “the Flying Furball”. Havanese dogs are smart, and highly trainable, so much so that they make great trick dogs. However, they must be socialized and trained from an early age or their mischievous side will make an appearance.
Being a small breed at only 8.5 – 11.5 inches (21.5 – 29 cm) tall and 7 – 13 pounds (3 – 6 kg) heavy, they rarely bark except to welcome people, and do quite well traveling and living in apartments. But they cannot be left alone for long periods. While they are energetic, they do not require a big yard or intense exercise but do need daily walks and spurts of playing to stay happy.
With wide, floppy, folded ears set high on their broad and rounded heads, and with big brown eyes, a deep chest, short legs, and a springy gait, it makes sense why they excel at agility and flyball competitions, on the show floor, tracking trials, and even musical freestyle dance events.
To ensure these little Flying Furballs do not become overweight and receive the proper nutrition to keep their energy up and muscles strong, they need a well balanced diet with 18-30% protein and 5% fat, in addition to minerals and vitamins.
Over the years, before the Havanese breed went extinct after the Cuban Revolution in the 1950s, and afterwards, Charles Dickens, Barbara Walters, Venus Williams, and Ernest Hemingway, amongst other celebrities and well-known personalities, have owned and loved a Havanese.
Still considered rare today, while they do not require a lot of exercise, their silky, smooth, heat tolerant double coat that works to protect against sunburn and keep them cool, is high maintenance. It is highly recommended that they be groomed daily, not because they shed a lot but to avoid mats and tangles. Additionally, to prevent tear stains around their eyes, their eye corners should be cleaned daily. With love and care, these spunky Flying Furballs will live 14 to 16 years, keeping their families and owners happy.
A table of the Havanese’s main features and attributes is below.
| Havanese | Havanese Features |
|---|---|
| Appearance | Colors: black, grey, silver, cream, red and white; Small toy breed, short legs, plummed curled tail, large brown eyes, broad rounded skull, deep chest, silky smooth straight or curly coat |
| Height | 8.5 – 11.5 inches (21.5 – 29 cm) |
| Weight | 7 – 13 pounds (3 – 6 kg) |
| Characteristics | Adaptable, extrovert, loyal, friendly, gentle, cheery, happy-go-lucky, loves cuddles |
| Energy Level | Regular (3 out of 5) |
| Shedding Level | Occasionally (1 out of 5) |
| Barking Level | Infrequently (2 out of 5) |
| Friendliness | Affectionate (5 out of 5) |
| Aggressiveness | Passive (2 out of 5) |
| Loyalty | Most Loyal (5 out of 5) |
33. Brittany
The Britany dog was named after the Brittany region in France where they originated during the 1800s. The Brittany dog breed was bred from the hunting dogs that English noblemen left behind when they came to the region. Brittanys were bred to point out the prey for their hunting companions, rather than flush them out like their spaniel counterparts. Which is why they are not referred to as Brittany Spaniels.
Brittanys are still utilized as hunting dogs around the world today, but they are also companion animals, running partners, dog sport teammates, and love to do anything outdoors, as long as it is with their humans.
Because the Brittany dog breed was bred to run long distances after game, they have high stamina and a high energy drive. They require several walks a day and adequate space to run or play and use up some of that energy to avoid being restless and destructive. With proper training, socialization, and lots of exercise, this upbeat breed may need a fence, but they are great with kids and active families.
When they aren’t running and playing, it is recommended to brush their coat and teeth 2 to 3 times a week, give them a bath 1 to 2 times a month because they do get dirty, trim their nails monthly and clean their ears weekly. Regular grooming will keep a Brittanys dense, flat, wavy double coat in tip-top shape. With slight feathering on their ears and legs, a body that is equal in length and height, and long legs to run fast, this breed is unique in that most are born tailless. Those that aren’t tend to have their tails docked so they don’t get caught on vegetation as they hunt with their small feet and arched toes.
Brittanys need 450 to 850 calories per day with 18 – 20% protein and 5 – 20% fat to maintain their energy levels and muscle mass. Anymore than that and this breed that averages a height of 17.5” – 20.5″ (44.5 – 52 cm) and a weight of 30 – 45 lbs (14 – 20 kg), is prone to obesity and health problems.
With proper care and attention, while individual Brittanys differ, the breed as a whole is intelligent, highly trainable, and eager to please their human companions for 12 to 14 years on average.
A table of Brittany’s main features and attributes is below.
| Brittany | Brittany Features |
|---|---|
| Appearance | Coat colors: Orange and white, liver and white, orange roan, liver roan; Eyes: dark brown, shades of amber, hazel; ear and leg feathering; dense, flat, wavy double coat, square body – length and height equal, long legs |
| Height | 17.5” – 20.5″ (44.5 – 52 cm) |
| Weight | 30 – 45 lbs (14 – 20 kg) |
| Characteristics | Energetic, patient, gentle, cuddler, doting, loving, upbeat |
| Energy Level | High-Level (5 out of 5) |
| Shedding Level | Occasionally (2 out of 5) |
| Barking Level | Average (3 out of 5) |
| Friendliness | Affectionate (5 out of 5) |
| Aggressiveness | Neutral (2 out of 5) |
| Loyalty | Most Loyal (5 out of 5) |
34. Bullmastiff
The Bullmastiff breed officially originated in England during the mid 19th century. While this breed may have been around for centuries, gamekeepers across England bred Mastiff’s and bulldogs together to create the perfect dog that is quiet, can move quickly, and can hold poachers down without harming them.
When the Bullmastiff dog breed was created, poaching, while illegal, was widespread. Gamekeepers needed a way to stop them but the Mastiff was too big, too slow and the bulldog, at the time, was too ferocious. Gamekeepers needed an animal that could both protect game on English estates, as well as track down poachers.
Today, the Bullmastiff weighs on average 100 – 130 pounds (45 – 59 kg) and can be 24 – 27 inches (61 – 68.5 cm) tall. The Bulmastiff is more of a family companion dog and also an intimidating domestic guard dog. Although, because they were bred to be quick and quiet, they do not bark and will not alert when there are intruders, thus it is important for their owners to keep an eye on their body language and any changes in behavior.
With that being said, the Bullmastiff is a very powerful dog and requires early obedience training and socialization to hone their mild mannered and docile personalities, making them great family pets as they are very tolerant of young children and pets. But without early training and socialization, they can become aggressive to strangers, male dogs, and dangerous around little kids due to their mere size. Thankfully, this large breed is very intelligent, learns quickly, and eager to please
A Bullmastiff does have a lot of energy and it is recommended that they have multiple walks a day and at least 1 hour a day of off-leash play. However, they prefer to be indoor dogs because they do not handle heat or humidity well and should not participate in activities that put too much pressure on their joints or cause them to overheat. But, as long as they get their daily exercise, even though they are large dogs, Bullmastiff’s can live in apartments, condos, and homes with small yards.
With proper exercise and a diet that consists of 18 – 25% protein, 10% fat, carbohydrates, vitamins, and fiber, this easy going breed with their broad, wrinkled head, short, square, black muzzle, and droopy triangle shaped ears, this breed can live 8 to 10 years on average.
In terms of grooming, Bullmastiff’s have a short coat that can be reddish-brown, brindle, or fawn, is easy to groom and can be brushed a couple of times a week to remove debris and dirt. Bullmastiffs occasionally shed throughout the year, only need a bathe once or twice a month, their nails clipped once a month, teeth brushed twice a week, ears checked weekly. They do slobber and drool a lot, so their snouts will need to be wiped off multiple times a day.
A table of the Bullmastiff’s main features and attributes is below.
| Bullmastiff | Bullmastiff Features |
|---|---|
| Appearance | Colors: fawn, reddish-brown, brindle; short coat, large, powerful body, black, short, square muzzle, broad head, dark hazel eyes, triangle shaped ears. |
| Height | 24 – 27 inches (61 – 68.5 cm) |
| Weight | 100 – 130 pounds (45 – 59 kg) |
| Characteristics | Smart, calm, easy-going, powerful, affectionate, brave, loyal, do not bark, but they do drool. |
| Energy Level | Regular (2 out of 5) |
| Shedding Level | Regularly (2 out of 5) |
| Barking Level | Infrequently (1 out of 5) |
| Friendliness | Affectionate (4 out of 5) |
| Aggressiveness | Neutral (2 out of 5) |
| Loyalty | Most Loyal (5 out of 5) |
35. Boston Terrier
The Boston Terrier, lovingly referred to as the “American Gentleman” was bred in the late 19th century as dog fighters, bull baiters, and vermin killers. A cross between the English Bulldog and the now extinct White English Terrier, the Boston Terrier eventually became a companion and a symbol of status for high society.
Nicknamed the American Gentleman not just because the Boston Terrier dog breed originated in America, but for their kind, sweet, loving, and gentle disposition. Recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1893 as a non-sporting breed, these American Gentlemen make great family pets. Whether in a studio apartment or on a large estate, Boston Terriers are affectionate yet mischievous, playful yet self-assured, sweet yet sassy, and highly intelligent yet stubborn.
Boston Terrier’s stand at 15 – 17 inches (38 – 43 cm) and weighing 12 – 25 pounds (5.5 – 11 kg). These small, compact, muscled dogs have a huge personality packed into their dapper, short tailed, bulging eyes, square head, flat faced appearance. With their smooth, short furred coat, they are very low maintenance breeds in terms of grooming, requiring brushing once a week, nails trimmed, ears cleaned, and a full body bath once a month. However, it is recommended to brush their teeth 3 times a week as they are prone to bad teeth.
In terms of exercise though, Boston Terriers are very high energy dogs and require at least one hour of exercise a day or they can turn that energy into destructive behaviors. With that being said, due to their short noses, they are more likely to overheat. When exercising the Boston Terrier, it is imperative to keep an eye on their body language and watch out for any signs of overheating. Additionally, not only do they not do well in hot or humid environments, but because of their short coat, they also do not do well in colder climates.
Because the American Gentleman has boundless energy, eating a nutritious, well-balanced diet of 200 – 500 calories per day depending on weight and comprised of 18 – 22% protein, 5 – 8% fat, and 14% carbohydrates is key to ensuring they live a healthy life that is, on average, 11 to 13 years long.
Boston Terriers are the ultimate human companion. Not only do they love cuddling because they are getting attention, but cuddling with their humans bring them a sense of belonging because they love to be doted on. The original Boston Terriers may have been larger and stronger to fight in pits, but the Boston Terriers we know today rarely bark, are eager to please and make great family pets because they are lovers, not fighters.
A table of the Boston Terrier’s main features and attributes is below.
| Boston Terrier | Boston Terrier Features |
|---|---|
| Appearance | Colors: Black and white, seal and white, brindle and white; compact and stocky, square head, short coat, erect ears, flat nose and face, short tails |
| Height | 15 – 17 inches (38 – 43 cm) |
| Weight | 12 – 25 pounds (5.5 – 11 kg) |
| Characteristics | Loving, playful, cheerful, sweet, smart, mischievous, entertaining, friendly |
| Energy Level | High-Level (5 out of 5) |
| Shedding Level | Regularly (2 out of 5) |
| Barking Level | Infrequently (2 out of 5) |
| Friendliness | Affectionate (5 out of 5) |
| Aggressiveness | Passive (2 out of 5) |
| Loyalty | Most Loyal (5 out of 5) |
36. Cairn Terrier
Named after the pile of rocks that they dug under to get rid of vermin and rodents, the Cairn Terrier is said to be Scotland’s first working dog in the Scottish Highlands and Western Isles. Bred to be fearless and ruthless and help farmers root out foxes and small furry prey.
Today, the Cairn Terrier dog breed can be found on the show dog floor, in tracking and herding events, and running as fast as possible in agility courses. When they aren’t running, chewing, digging, or barking, they are loyal family companions that get along well with kids and seniors alike.
The Cairn Terrier was made famous after appearing in the Wizard of Oz. It is a shaggy looking dog with a medium length wiry top coat and soft undercoat, a broad head with black button noses, hazel eyes, and small pointed ears. Bred in a variety of different colors ranging from tan to red to black, these determined little dogs are highly energetic and need to run a few times a day, at least one hour minimum.
Additionally, the Cairn Terrier is small enough to be a lap dog, weighing 13 to 14 pounds (6 to 6.5 kg) and only 9.5 to 10 inches (24 to 25 cm) tall, and while they do like to cuddle, they only like to cuddle briefly and only on their terms. They may be highly intelligent, but they can be stubborn, only doing what they want to do.
To maintain their energy levels, the Cairn Terrier needs a well-balanced diet with 25% protein, 10 to 15% healthy fats, along with carbohydrates and essential vitamins. Living on average 12 to 15 years, they bond strongly with one human who is usually the one who provides most of their care.
Cairn Terriers are also easily adaptable to any environment. They may not like getting wet, but their coats are weather resistant and only need to be brushed once a week, their nails trimed every four to eight weeks, and they only need to be bathed 4 times a year. With proper attention, exercise, and care, the Cairn Terrier can be the perfect companion. But with their hunting instincts, they will keep their humans on their toes.
A table of the Cairn Terrier’s main features and attributes is below.
| Cairn Terrier | Cairn Terrier Features |
|---|---|
| Appearance | Colors: bluish gray, tan, pale yellowish brown, black, cream, red, silver, brindle; medium length wiry double coat, broad face, small pointed ears, hazel eyes, black button nose |
| Height | 9.5 to 10 inches (24 to 25 cm) |
| Weight | 13 to 14 pounds (6 to 6.5 kg) |
| Characteristics | Smart, adaptable, determined, busy, alert, friendly, independent |
| Energy Level | High-Level (4 out of 5) |
| Shedding Level | Occasionally (2 out of 5) |
| Barking Level | Most (4 out of 5) |
| Friendliness | Affectionate (4 out of 5) |
| Aggressiveness | Aggressive (3 out of 5) |
| Loyalty | Most Loyal (5 out of 5) |
37. Shetland Sheepdog
The Shetland Sheepdog (Sheltie) originated 300 years ago in Scandinavia as a small, all-purpose farm dog and livestock herder. Crossed with Rough Collies to get their long coat, and over time with papillons, pomeranians, border collies, and King Charles spaniels as smaller dogs were more popular at the time.
The modern Sheltie appearance of a deep chest, upright but slightly bent ears, long and wedge shaped head, and a double soft coat, wasn’t actually finalized until 1952 when they stopped being bred with other breeds.
These miniature Sheltie Sheepdogs were the go-to herder across the remote and rugged islands of Scotland until commercial livestock farming made larger breeds necessary. Today, this gorgeous and gentle breed are utilized as medical alert dogs, therapy dogs, service dogs, and family companions.
However, they still have their herding instincts and the energy levels to match. They require constant stimulation – both mentally and physically. When they aren’t helping humans in their day-to-day life, they can be found thriving participating in agility competitions, herding events, and rally courses.
At only 13 – 16 inches (33 – 40.6 cm) and 15 to 25 pounds (7 – 11 kg), Shelties need a diet high in protein to maintain their muscle mass and energy levels so they can continue being the extremely intelligent breed they are. Ranked 6 out of 138 breeds tested for their obedience and working intelligence, the Sheltie is a quick learner that loves to chase just as much as they are protective and loyal to their family.
However, prospective Shetland Sheepdog owners should be prepared because this breed does shed a lot. Especially during the spring and fall. Their coat should be brushed once a week at least, if not daily. Their teeth cleaned three times a week, ears cleaned once a week, nails trimmed monthly, and they only need a bath once every 1 to 2 months.
While their grooming may be a little high maintenance, this beautiful and elegant breed is very polite and peaceful. Even though they are quick to bark, especially when it comes to intruders, making them a capable watchdog. With the proper care, and enough exercise, Shelties are known to protect and love their family for 12 to 14 years on average.
A table of the Sheltie’s main features and attributes is below.
| Sheltie | Sheltie Features |
|---|---|
| Appearance | Colors: black, blue merle, sable with white; Soft double coat, long outer coat and short soft undercoat; long, wedge shaped head; upright but slightly bent ears |
| Height | 13 – 16 inches (33 – 40.6 cm) |
| Weight | 15 – 25 pounds (7 – 11 kg) |
| Characteristics | Sweet, polite, gentle, high energy, protective, reserved with strangers, eager to please, very smart |
| Energy Level | High-Level (5 out of 5) |
| Shedding Level | Regularly (4 out of 5) |
| Barking Level | Most (4 out of 5) |
| Friendliness | Affectionate (5 out of 5) |
| Aggressiveness | Passive (1 out of 5) |
| Loyalty | Most Loyal (5 out of 5) |
38. Black Russian Terrier
Black Russian Terrier (BRT or Blackies) can be traced back to the 1930s when they originated in the former USSR as a powerful and robust breed than the German Shepherd to aide the Russian military.
Because this breed was created specifically to be a Russian military asset, most of the documentation regarding the creation of this breed, is top secret. However, it is said that up to 17 different breeds were involved, including Newfoundlands, Rotterweilers, Giant Schnauzers, and Airedales.
Bred to guard and protect, as well as rebuild Russia’s guard dog army after World War 2, the Black Russian Terrier is still utilized as a guard dog for homes and businesses. They are also commonly used as service and therapy dogs, part of K9 police units, and as Search and Rescue dogs.
When they aren’t on a mission or playing with their human families, they excel at agility and obedience events because they are not just intelligent but also competitive and easy to train. Whether they are a working, participating in dog sports, or being a loyal companion dog, Blackies are brave, loving, loyal, and have a calm personality that has helped them work in brutal climates.
Standing tall at 26 – 30 inches (66 – 76 cm) and weighing anywhere between 80 – 130 pounds (36 – 59 kg), the Black Russian Terrier is a large, powerful, energetic breed that needs daily exercise and consistent training. While they are an extremely loyal breed and can be good with children and other pets, they were bred to be protective. Without training and early socialization, they can be aggressive.
Additionally, as their name implies, a black coat is the only acceptable color. Recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC) in 2004, BRTs have an all black tousled (not wiry or curly) double coat with an undercoat that is soft and thick and a coarse outer coat that can be between 1.5 inches to 4 inches long. Blackies also have thick necks and large brick shaped heads with beards and even eyebrows.
The Black Russian Terrier is a large breed and therefore needs dog food that is specifically formulated for big dogs. These foods are created with joint care needs in mind, not just the appropriate mix of proteins, fats, carbohydrates, and vitamins necessary, and tend to be bigger bites for bigger mouths.
In terms of grooming, the BRT, while they have a thick double coat that should be brushed three times a week, they only occassionally shed. Every four to six weeks, their ears and teeth should be cleaned, their nails trimmed, anal glands checked, and given a bath to remove any dirt or debris that has accumulated in their coarse coat. And with the proper care and attention, these beautiful majestic dogs can live a long, happy, healthy 10 to 12 years.
A table of the Black Russian Terrier’s main features and attributes is below.
| Black Russian Terrier | Black Russian Terrier Features |
|---|---|
| Appearance | All black, coarse and tousled double coat, thick neck, large bones, beards and eyebrows, large brick shaped head |
| Height | 26 – 30 inches (66 – 76 cm) |
| Weight | 80 – 130 pounds (36 – 59 kg) |
| Characteristics | Loving, playful, calm, brave, observant, loyal, protective |
| Energy Level | Energetic (4 out of 5) |
| Shedding Level | Occasionally (2 out of 5) |
| Barking Level | Average (3 out of 5) |
| Friendliness | Affectionate (4 out of 5) |
| Aggressiveness | Neutral (3 out of 5) |
| Loyalty | Most Loyal (5 out of 5) |
39. Bedlington Terrier
The Bedlington Terrier, also known as gypsy dogs, originated in the 1800s, becoming prized hunting dogs that helped miners and estates hunt small animals, foxes, hares, and even badgers.
Bedlington Terriers were bred to be the ultimate working man’s dog, and at one point, they were also prized dog fighters. But today, with dog fighting illegal, and while they are a rare breed, they are still hunting companions, family companions, and can be found in the show ring.
The Bedlington Terrier dog breed is a patient, playful, and fiercely protective. And when they aren’t cuddling with their owners, they are also athletic and love dog sports. Because they are an energetic breed, they need at least an hour per day of physical exercise and mental stimulation. When they aren’t being charming, patient with kids, playing fetch, or hanging out with their handlers on long walks and runs, they do have a tendency to bark a lot due to their heritage.
Gypsy dog’s slightly resemble a Star Wars battle droid, with a pear shaped head, soft, harsh, curly coat, and an arched back. The Bedlington Terrier is a unique breed that also looks like a cross between a lamb and a poodle.
The Bedlington inspired the name of the Bedlington’s Northern League soccer team to be called the Bedlington Terriers, as well as all the park benches with arm rests in the same of the breed.
Bedlington Terriers average 15 – 18 inches (38 – 44 cm) in height and weigh between 17 – 23 pounds (7.7 – 10 kg). With the appropriate dog food for small dogs, with a combination of 18 to 20% protein and 5 to 8% fat, this very smart breed is also hypoallergenic and rarely shed. However, to maintain their coat and prevent any matting, their coat and teeth should still be brushed once or twice a week. Nails and ears should be checked monthly when they are bathed.
Recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1886, the Bedlington Terrier, with proper care, love, and attention, this unique and fun loving breed can live 12 to 14 long years.
A table of the Bedlington Terrier’s main features and attributes is below.
| Bedlington Terrier | Bedlington Terrier Features |
|---|---|
| Appearance | Colors: blue, sandy, liver, tan; pear shaped head, curly coat, arched back, soft harsh coat |
| Height | 15 – 18 inches (38 – 44 cm) |
| Weight | 17 – 23 pounds (7.7 – 10 kg) |
| Characteristics | Loyal, loving, playful, adaptable, patient, protective, smart, charming |
| Energy Level | High-Level (5 out of 5) |
| Shedding Level | None (1 out of 5) |
| Barking Level | Most (4 out of 5) |
| Friendliness | Affectionate (5 out of 5) |
| Aggressiveness | Passive (2 out of 5) |
| Loyalty | Loyal (4 out of 5) |
40. American Pit Bull Terrier
The American Pit Bull Terrier (APBT) was originally bred to hunt, capture, and restrain feral livestock, and originated in the early 19th century in the United Kingdom. Descendents include all bull-and-terrier breeds that could hold and bait large animals like bulls, boars, and bears.
The term Pit Bull is a blanket term for all bull-and-terrier breeds that were utilized as dog fighters throughout England, Scotland, and Ireland, as well as for baiting bulls. Mainly to help butchers. Today, with bull baiting and dog fighting illegal, APBTs are companion animals, military dogs, Search and Rescue dogs, and even therapy and service dogs.
The American Pit Bull Terrier dog breed was bred and trained to be aggressive towards other dogs and large game, but never towards humans and their handlers. Considered a “velcro dog” that strongly bonds with their human companions, APBTs are watchdogs and protectors, yet gentle, patient, playful cuddlers.
APBTs are highly energetic dogs that need a fenced in yard that is secured above and below so they cannot dig or jump to escape. They also need at least one to two hours per day of exercise such as agility exercises, obedience training, scent work, flyball events, and even weight pulling. To keep them healthy and energy levels up, American Pit Bull Terriers should have a diet consisting of 18 – 22% protein, along with Omega-3 fatty acids, vitamins, and probiotics as APBTs tend to have sensitive stomachs.
American Pit Bull Terriers look intimidating with their stocky, muscular build with a tapered tail and floppy ears. But, standing tall at 17 – 21 inches (43 – 53 cm) and weighing on average 30 – 60 pounds (13.6 – 27 kg), APBTs are more likely to continue an attack rather than start one. However, they do need to be trained and socialized early on, as well as kept mentally and physically stimulated.
In terms of grooming, even though American Pit Bull Terriers have a short, dense, and smooth shiny coat that requires minimal care, they still shed occasionally year round. Once a week, their coat should be brushed and their ears checked and cleaned as needed. Do not bathe them more than once a month as too many baths can cause their natural oils that protect their skin to dry out.
With the proper care and attention, these beautiful American Pit Bull Terriers that are descendents of dog fighters and bull baiters, are kind, caring, love to play challenging games, and live on average 12 to 14 years.
A table of the American Pit Bull Terrier’s main features and attributes is below.
| American Pit Bull Terrier | American Pit Bull Terrier Features |
|---|---|
| Appearance | Coat colors: black, chocolate, red, black and white, tan and white; short dense, smooth shiny coat, floppy ears, round/almond shaped eyes, stocky and musculature, tapered tail |
| Height | 17 – 21 inches (43 – 53 cm) |
| Weight | 30 – 60 pounds (13.6 – 27 kg) |
| Characteristics | Loyal, loving, gentle, patient, protector, extroverted, versatile |
| Energy Level | High-Level (5 out of 5) |
| Shedding Level | Occasionally (3 out of 5) |
| Barking Level | Average (2 out of 5) |
| Friendliness | Affectionate (4 out of 5) |
| Aggressiveness | Neutral (3 out of 5) |
| Loyalty | Most Loyal (5 out of 5) |
41. Doberman Pincher
The Doberman Pinscher (Dobermann) is one of the most muscular dog breeds. Dobermann were originally developed for personal protection, now they are utilized in law enforcement, the special forces, rescue and search missions, and pets.
The Doberman Pinscher dog breed was originally working dogs in Germany. The personal protection Dobermann was officially bred to by Karl Friedrich Louis Dobermann, a German tax collector, in 1899.
Doberman Pinscher’s main features include being a loyal, intelligent, strong, agile dog that is easy to train as guard dogs for personal and property protection.
Dobermann’s have muscular builds, pointed ears and typical health issues include Dilated Cardiomyopathy (DCM), Hypothyroidism and Cancer.
On average, Doberman Pinschers need 2100 daily calories. Less active or older Dobermann need between 1,300 and 1,400 calories per day, while active need between 2,000 and 2,200 calories per day.
Doberman Pinscher’s average weight is 80 pounds (36.3 kg). Male Doberman Pinschers have an average weight of 75 – 100 pounds (34 – 45.4 kg) and females have an average weight of 60 – 90 pounds (27.2 – 40.8 kg). Males have an average height of 26 – 28 (66 – 71 cm)inches and females have an average height of 24 – 26 inches (61 – 66 cm).
Doberman Pinschers range in size from medium to large with a muscular build. Dobermann have perked upright ears that stand up, and are mostly black, blue, and fawn with rust marking colors. Their barking is very loud, but bark infrequently, given their working & protection background. Dobermann are extremely intelligent, according to a study from BioMed Central (BMC). Doberman Pinschers should maintain a regular grooming and brushing routine to help control shedding and keep coat clean.
| Doberman Pinscher | Doberman Pinscher Features |
|---|---|
| Appearance | Perked upright ears, Muscular Build Colors: black blue and fawn with rust markings, or solid white |
| Height | 24 – 28 inches (61 – 71 cm) |
| Weight | 60 -100 pounds (27.2 – 45.4 kg) |
| Characteristics | loyal, intelligent and strong |
| Energy Level | High-Level (4 out of 5) |
| Shedding Level | Frequently (3 out of 5) |
| Barking Level | Infrequently but Loud (2 out of 5) |
| Friendliness | Affectionate (4 out of 5) |
| Aggressiveness | Aggressive (4 out of 5) |
| Loyalty | Most Loyal (5 out of 5) |
42. Shiba Inu
The Shiba Inu (Shiba), an ancient Japanese breed, was bred to hunt small game, including ground birds, roughly 2300 years ago. However, dog remains the size of Shiba Inu’s have been discovered that date back to 14,500 B.C.
Shiba Inu’s faced extinction during World War 2 due to a food shortage and a canine distemper epidemic. With only three Shiba bloodlines remaining post World War 2, a preservation effort began. All Shibas today can be traced back to those efforts.
Today, the Shiba Inu dog breed is a family pet and a companion animal. They are a serious breed with an instinct to protect, but they are not a good protection dog due to their small size. With an average height of 13.5 to 16.5 inches (34 to 42 cm) and an average weight of 17 to 23 pounds (7.5 to 10.5 kg), they pack a lot of confidence, bravery, and stubborn independence into a compact body.
Shiba Inu’s, with their pointy ears, curled tails, and dark eyes, are a very active breed that barks only when necessary. But when they do bark, it is sharp and abrupt, which helped them alert hunters when they had flushed out small game. Their tenacious personalities and self-reliant, independent natures have helped them survive for thousands of years in the mountains of Japan.
Shibas may be small, but they are very energetic and need at least on hour per day of productive exercise like running, hiking, playing fetch, or just going on walks to keep them from being destructive. To maintain their energy levels and keep them healthy for 13 to 16 years, Shibas need a well-balanced diet of 30% protein, 20% carbohydrates, and 15 to 18% fat. They would have been fed wild fowl, small game, rice, and fish, but a small kibble sized dog food that is created with small, energetic dogs in mind will do just fine.
Shiba Inu’s do shed regularly throughout the year, and blow their double coat twice a year during high shed seasons. Their straight and stiff outercoat and soft and thick undercoat should be brushed twice a month in off-shedding seasons, and at least two times a week during those high shed seasons. Once or twice a week, their teeth should be brushed and their ears checked. Additionally, they can be bathed 1 to 2 times per month.
Keep in mind that every Shiba is unique. But they are a very spirited, bold, perky, and loyal dog that is very smart and very food motivated. With love and care, the Shiba Inu will continue thriving for thousands more years as attentive companions.
A table of the Shiba Inu’s main features and attributes is below.
| Shiba Inu | Shiba Inu Features |
|---|---|
| Appearance | Coat colors: white markings, red, red sesame, black and tan; compact, pointy ears, curled tail, dark triangled eyes, stocky |
| Height | 13.5 to 16.5 inches (34 to 42 cm) |
| Weight | 17 to 23 pounds (7.5 to 10.5 kg) |
| Characteristics | Bold, brave, stubborn, independent, confident, loyal, protective, good-natured, attentive |
| Energy Level | Energetic (4 out of 5) |
| Shedding Level | Regularly (3 out of 5) |
| Barking Level | Average (4 out of 5) |
| Friendliness | Neutral Affectionate (3 out of 5) |
| Aggressiveness | Neutral (3 out of 5) |
| Loyalty | Most Loyal (5 out of 5) |
43. Shih Tzu
The Shih Tzu, also commonly referred to as Lion Dog, is said to have originated in Tibet and gifted to Chinese royalty, which then were bred with Pekingese and Pugs to create the modern-day Shih Tzu. Originally bred to be companions for Chinese nobles and royalty, the breed almost went extinct after the Chinese Imperial rule ended.
The Shih Tzu dog breed can be traced back to seven males and seven females who were gifted to foreigners as part of a breeding program. They were originally bred to bark whenever people or animals approached the palace. Today, they are companions that can be found in the dog show ring, or competing in agility events and obedience competitions.
Shih Tzus were developed over 1,000 years ago but only came onto the world scene outside of TIbet and Japan in the 1930s. By 1969, the American Kennel Club (AKC) finally recognized this breed that quickly grew in popularity due to their regal looks and easy going temperaments.
Recognized as a toy breed, Shih Tzus were bred to be companions and therefore do not require a lot of exercise. While energetic, they can be lazy lap dogs, but they love being pampered, petted, and cuddled. And sitting at 8 – 11 inches (20 – 28 cm) tall and weighing 9 – 16 pounds (4 to 7 kg), they do not need large spaces or big backyards, just a daily short walk.
This small, friendly breed is longer than they are tall, have a short muzzle with an underbite, a round head and curled tail, and a long, silky double coat that not only makes them look like they have a furry mustache and a beard, but it can be high maintenance. Their coat can be kept long or cut short. While they are a light shedder, their double coat that is long and silky on top and soft and feathery underneath, should be brushed daily to avoid mats and tangles, especially if their coat is kept long. If it is decided to trim their coat, it should be clipped every four to six weeks. In addition to brushing daily, their inner eye corners should be cleaned to reduce tear staining.
Shih Tzus are an intelligent breed that is eager to please, but they are stubborn and prone to barking. With a well balanced diet and dog food specifically formulated for small dogs, these small and lively dogs will be a charming addition to any family and make vibrant companions for 10 to 16 years.
A table of the Shih Tzu’s main features and attributes is below.
| Shih Tzu | Shih Tzu Features |
|---|---|
| Appearance | Coat colors: 14 including gold and white, red and white, black and white, liver, solid black, brindle and white; blue eyes, dark brown eyes, short muzzle, underbite, round head, curled tail, long and silky double coat, furry mustache and beard |
| Height | 8 – 11 inches (20 – 28 cm) |
| Weight | 9 – 16 pounds (4 to 7 kg) |
| Characteristics | Lively, energetic, charming, happy, easygoing, vibrant |
| Energy Level | Regular (3 out of 5) |
| Shedding Level | Occasionally (1 out of 5) |
| Barking Level | Most (5 out of 5) |
| Friendliness | Affectionate (4 out of 5) |
| Aggressiveness | Passive (2 out of 5) |
| Loyalty | Most Loyal (5 out of 5) |
44. Sarabi Dog
The Sarabi dog breed originated hundreds of years ago in what is now Sarab County, Iran to protect sheep and goat herds from local predators such as bears, wolves, and jackals. During the 20th century, they almost went extinct but dedicated breeders were able to bring them back from the edge. Today, they are loyal and protective companions.
Also known as the Persian Mastiff, Iranian Shepherd, or the Iranian Mastiff, the Sarabi is a large dog. In Iran, the bigger the Sarabi, the greater its value. Weighing between 110 – 220 pounds (50 – 100 kg) and standing tall at the shoulders on average 28 – 35 inches (71 – 89 cm) with females on the smaller side, the Sarabi has a giant and bulky body, a big head, thick necks, broad heads, and a terrifying bite force.
While the Sarabi dog breed are now more often companions than protectors, they need to be trained and socialized from a very early age. This large breed does have a very loud, albeit infrequent, bark, and has been bred to remain calm and controlled so as to not scare the herds they protect, but they are also very powerful and protective and thus do not do well with small children and can be suspicious of strangers.
Because Sarabis were bred to be independent and live on their own with herds in harsh terrain, their grooming needs are low maintenance. Their coat comes in both long hair and short hair versions, and in colors like fawn, sable, black, brown, gray, and even bronze. They are moderate shedders and only need once a week brushing, a bath once every one to two months, and their ears cleaned and nails trimmed monthly.
The Sarabi is a large breed with high energy but are also prone to obesity. Moreso when they are companions rather than working dogs. Thus, daily walks or one hour minimum of exercise is necessary to keep the Sarabi healthy. In addition to exercise, they need a diet specifically made for large breeds that has joint supplements and 25 – 30% protein. Providing the proper care and attention, this smart breed will live between 12 to 15 years on average, remaining loyal every step of the way.
A table of the Sarabi Dog’s main features and attributes is below.
| Sarabi Dog | Sarabi Dog Features |
|---|---|
| Appearance | Coat color: shades of brown, black mask, solid black; giant body, large head, almond shaped dark yellow eyes, thick necks |
| Height | 28 – 35 inches (71 – 89 cm) |
| Weight | 110 – 220 pounds (50 – 100 kg) |
| Characteristics | Calm, loyal, alert, powerful, protective, smart, independent, hard workers |
| Energy Level | High-Level (5 out of 5) |
| Shedding Level | Occasionally (2 out of 5) |
| Barking Level | Infrequent but Loud (2 out of 5) |
| Friendliness | Affectionate (4 out of 5) |
| Aggressiveness | Neutral (2 out of 5) |
| Loyalty | Most Loyal (5 out of 5) |
45. Samoyed
The Samoyed (Sammy, Sammies) is a herding dog that originated from an Arctic nomadic tribe around 1000 BCE. Named after the Samoyede people of Siberia, in addition to being companion animals, they were bred to handle the coldest of climates while pulling sleds, and herding reindeer for the Nenets people.
After finally leaving Siberia at the end of the 1800s, Samoyeds were officially recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1906 and rank 53 in popularity out of 200 recognized breeds.
Today, the Samoyed dog breed is a reindeer guard, companions, and sled pullers. Considered a highly intelligent dog, ranking 44 out of 138 breeds, they also excel at nose-work and scenting activities, agility and obedience competitions, as well as weight pulling events.
Sammies, with their very thick, all white, double coat that is impervious to cold, love snuggles, children, and want to be involved in all of their family activities. This playful yet gentle breed is adventurous, friendly yet protective, and always smiling. The smile or their upturned mouths avoids drooling, preventing freezing of the saliva around the mouth.
Samoyeds, with their erect ears, white, cream, or biscuit coats, and black lips, are a very energetic breed, requiring one to two hours per day of purposeful exercise such as jogging, hiking, walks, and playing off leash. With that being said, they do love to rest.
Living 12 to 14 years on average, Sammies grow to be 19 to 23.5 inches (48 to 60 cm) tall on average and weigh between 35 to 65 pounds (16 to 29.5 kg). To make sure Samoyeds maintain their muscle mass, energy levels, and health, they need to be fed 1500 to 1800 calories per day full of nutritious protein, carbohydrates, vitamins, and healthy fats.
When they aren’t eating, snuggling with their humans, or being adventurous, Sammies have a tendency to bark. Not just any bark. They have a high-pitched piercing bark. A bark that is helpful for protecting reindeer and their families, not necessarily for apartment or living in close quarters. While they are effective watch dogs, they should not be relied on to be a protection dog as they were bred to love humans.
Samoyeds are also known as the “teflon dog” as dirt and debris tend to not stick to their thick and fluffy coat. Regardless, they should still be brushed two to three times a week to prevent their coat from matting, given a bath and nails trimmed once every two months, and their ears checked and teeth brushed once a week to prevent any illnesses.
Overall, the Samoyed is a medium sized hard working dog that makes a wonderful companion for both active individuals and families.
A table of the Samoyed’s main features and attributes is below.
| Samoyed | Samoyed Features |
|---|---|
| Appearance | Colors: white and biscuit, white, cream, biscuit; Thick, all white double coat impervious to cold and protects against heat; dark almond shaped eyes; erect ears; black lips |
| Height | 19 to 23.5 inches (48 to 60 cm) |
| Weight | 35 to 65 pounds (16 to 29.5 kg) |
| Characteristics | Playful, adventurous, friendly, protective, good with kids, cuddler, gentle, loyal, smart, friendly, hardworker |
| Energy Level | High-Level (4 out of 5) |
| Shedding Level | Regularly (3 out of 5) |
| Barking Level | Average and high pitched (3 out of 5) |
| Friendliness | Affectionate (5 out of 5) |
| Aggressiveness | Passive (2 out of 5) |
| Loyalty | Most Loyal (5 out of 5) |
46. Maltipoo
The Maltipoo, also known as Maltipoodles, noodles, malt-a-poos, and maltoodles, is a relatively new breed. Originating in the United States in the 1990s and bred between the Maltese and toy poodles, the Maltipoo is a designer hybrid breed.
Because of their hybrid designer status, they are not recognized by the American Kennel Club, but they can be registered with the Designer Dogs Kennel Club (DDKC).
Their original purpose was to be a small, affectionate companion for those that suffer from allergies. Specifically, animal allergies. Today, they are still a small companion animal, but they are also commonly seen in hospitals and nursing homes as therapy dogs due to their calm, sensitive, and gentle natures that help reduce patient stress and anxieties.
Noodles love spending time with their owners and make great family pets. They are energetic, feisty, and always on high alert, but they only need about 30 minutes of off-leash exercise. While they are charming, Maltipoos are independent and can be stubborn. However, they do make a great choice for first time dog owners and not only because of their low grooming maintenance needs.
For starters. Maltipoos can have one of three coat types – soft and silky, thick and curly, and wiry and wavy – and their coats can be white, black, brown, apricot, or blue. Additionally, Maltipoos are unique in that their coats can, and do, change as they age, reaching a final adult color at two years of age, or seasonally during the winter and summer seasons from light to dark.
While they do have a low shedding coat due to their poodle heritage, medium long coats need to be brushed at least once or twice a week to prevent matting and painful sores. Likewise, the Maltipoo breed only needs their ears checked, nails trimmed, and given a bath once a month. Their teeth needs brushing as often as possible, preferably daily to prevent any gum or teeth disease.
Maltipoos are a fun-loving, people pleasing breed that loves spending time with their owners. Bred to be small, they weigh, on average, between 5 to 20 pounds (3 to 12 kg), and stand tall at 8 – 14 inches (20 – 35.5 cm). On top of their single layer coat and small size, Noodles have a round head and floppy ears. However, most of their physical features – such as eyes and coloring – largely depend on their parentage and are not uniform, another reason why they are not recognized by the AKC.
This loyal and smart breed rarely barks. But when they do, it is because they are constantly on high alert andand are being protective of their handlers. Maltipoos, because of their poodle heritage, are quick learns, intuitive, and can be easy to train.
In addition to the proper care, love, and attention, Maltipoos should be feed small dog food kibble that is not only specifically designed for small dog breeds, but is high in fat, protein, vitamins, and low in fillers. This breed should be monitored when eating, or provided dog puzzle bowls to slow their intake as eating too quickly can cause upset stomachs in this small designer breed.
A table of the Maltipoo’s main features and attributes is below.
| Maltipoo | Maltipoo Features |
| Appearance | 3 coat types: soft and silky, thick and curly, wiry and wavy; Colors: white, black, brown, apricot, blue; single coat, round head, floppy ears |
| Height | 8 – 14 inches (20 – 35.5 cm) |
| Weight | 5 to 20 pounds (3 to 12 kg) |
| Characteristics | Intelligent, charming, sensitive, feisty, active, fun-loving, stubborn, independent, protective, cuddly, highly loyal, adaptable, gentle |
| Energy Level | High-Level (4 out of 5) |
| Shedding Level | Very little (1 out of 5) |
| Barking Level | Infrequently (2 out of 5) |
| Friendliness | Affectionate (5 out of 5) |
| Aggressiveness | Passive (2 out of 5) |
| Loyalty | Most Loyal (5 out of 5) |
47. Jack Russel Terrier
The Jack Russel Terrier (JRT) breed originated in England in the early 1800s. Reverend Parson John Russel, or “Jack” to friends, wanted an efficient hunting dog and thus cross bred bull terriers and beagles.
Originally bred to be an eager, hardworking, tireless working dog, the JRT helped hunters track fast foxes, groundhogs, badgers, otters, and raccoons. Today, the JRT breed helps horse owners, participates in multiple dog sports, and are well known in the entertainment industry, being preferred by animal trainers for their intelligence and ability to learn quickly.
Recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC) in 1997 as the Parson Russell Terrier, this playful, tough, inquisitive, portable breed has boundless energy and a fearless personality. It may seem like Jack Russell Terriers are always on the go, and that’s because they are. Weighing in at only 13 to 18 pounds (6 to 8 kg) and standing tall at 10 to 15 inches (25 to 38 cm), this small, never shy breed is a great match for active households. Just don’t let them off leash as they still have those strong hunting instincts and prey drives they were specifically bred to have.
JRTs also have a bark to match that high energy and are a bit nosier than most. With consistent and firm training and proper amount of exercise daily though, their barks can be managed.
Jack Russel Terriers can have one of three coats – rough, smooth, or broken. JRTs with broken coats have long fur and it can look like they have fluffy eyebrows and beards. With their v-shaped ears, dark almond shaped eyes, and short legs, they have a variety of colors but mostly white with tan or black markings.
JRTs also have a double coat with a short, dense and coarse undercoat and long hairs on top. They do shed consistently year round but only need to be brushed once a week and bathed, nails trimmed, and ears checked and cleaned once a month.
This athletic, overprotective, confident and clever breed can live, on average, 12 to 16 years. To maintain their body mass and energy levels, it is important to feed them a well-balanced nutritional diet that consists of 450 to 650 calories per day depending on their weight, 18% protein, and 5% fat. With the proper care and attention, Jack Russel Terriers will entertain and love their families for years to come.
A table of the Jack Russel Terrier’s main features and attributes is below.
| Jack Russel Terrier | Jack Russel Terrier Features |
| Appearance | Colors: mostly white with tan or black markings; 3 coats: rough, smooth, or broken, broken coats have long fur, eyebrows and beards; short legs; dark almond shaped eyes, v-shaped ears |
| Height | 10 to 15 inches (25 to 38 cm) |
| Weight | 13 to 18 pounds (6 to 8 kg) |
| Characteristics | Tenacious, friendly, athletic, playful, loving, loyal, alert, high energy, overprotective, strong hunting and prey drive, clever, confident, entertaining |
| Energy Level | High-Level (5 out of 5) |
| Shedding Level | Regularly (3 out of 5) |
| Barking Level | Most (5 out of 5) |
| Friendliness | Affectionate (4 out of 5) |
| Aggressiveness | Aggressive (2 out of 5) |
| Loyalty | Most Loyal (5 out of 5) |
48. Goldendoodle
A cross between a poodle and golden retriever, the Goldendoodle (Groodle), was first bred in the 1960s to be a guide dog for those with allergies. Combining the low-shed hypoallergenic coat of the standard poodle with the trainability and gentleness of the Golden Retriever.
In the late 1980s, Wally Conron of the Royal Guide Dog Association of Australia and dog breeder helped push the designer Groodle breed into mainstream popularity.
Today, the Goldendoodle is still an amazing guide dog, but they are also utilized as therapy dogs, diabetic dogs, agility dogs, Search and Rescue dogs, as well as a loving companion.
Groodles can be one of four sizes – toy, mini, medium, and standard. Mini groodles stand at 13 – 20 inches (33 – 51 cm) in height and weigh 15 – 35 pounds (7 – 16 kg) while standard groodles can be 20 – 24 inches (51 – 61 cm) tall and can weigh 50 – 90 pounds (22.6 – 41 kg).
Regardless of size, Goldendoodles have long muzzles, round broad skulls, brown eyes, and elliptical shaped chest and ribs. They can also be one of six coat colors – cream, apricot, red, chocolate/brown, white, and black.
Living, on average, 10 to 15 years, Groodles do not bark that much, they are easy to train with a need to please, and they only require brushing at least once a week to prevent mats. While they don’t shed much due to their poodle heritage, this smart, loyal, and patient breed does need their teeth brushed three times a week, ears cleaned and nails trimmed once a month, and bathed every one to two months.
With a proper, well-balanced diet, two hours of exercise per day, and all the love, Groodles are an extremely loving breed, perfect for all types of households and handlers.
A table of the Goldendoodle’s main features and attributes is below.
| Goldendoodle | Goldendoodle Features |
| Appearance | Coat colors: cream, apricot, red, chocolate/brown, white, black; Patterns: Parti – two color coat, phantom – primary coat over most body, secondary color; long muzzle; round broad skull; dark oval eyes; Eye colors – brown, rare – blue and green; Elliptical shaped chest and ribs |
| Height | Mini: 13 – 20 inches (33 – 51 cm)Large Standard: 20 – 24 inches (51 – 61 cm) |
| Weight | Mini: 15 – 35 pounds (7 – 16 kg)Large Standard: 50 – 90 pounds (22.6 – 41 kg) |
| Characteristics | Smart, hypoallergenic, active, playful, loyal, clever, loving, patient, playful |
| Energy Level | Energetic (4 out of 5) |
| Shedding Level | Occasionally (1 out of 5) |
| Barking Level | Infrequently (1 out of 5) |
| Friendliness | Affectionate (5 out of 5) |
| Aggressiveness | Passive (2 out of 5) |
| Loyalty | Most Loyal (5 out of 5) |
49. American Bully
Originating in the United States in the 1980s, the American Bully is a mix between the American Staffordshire Terrier and American Pit Bulll.
As animal fighting became illegal, the American Bully was specifically bred to have a lower prey drive and remove the aggressive traits normally found in pitbulls while still having the strength and size but also be caring, calm, reliable, and sweet.
Today, they are the ultimate family companion. They are great with kids, eager to please, trustworthy, and protective yet kind. American Bullies can also be found in many hip-hop and rap music videos due to their intimidating appearance.
The American Bully are not recognized by the American Kennel Club due to their hybrid breed, but they were recognized in 2004 by the American Bully Kennel Club. Even though this breed is laid back, rarely barks, and often called sweet tempered, due to their association with pitbulls, some countries, like Turkey and Ireland, have a ban or restrictions on owning an American Bully.
American Bullies do come in a variety of sizes, including pocket size, standard, and giant. Pocket bullies range from 13 – 17 inches (33 – 43 cm) in height and 25 – 50 pounds (11 – 23 kg) in weight. Standard bullies range from 16 – 20 inches (40 – 51 cm) and 60 – 120 pounds (27 – 54 kg). And giant bullies are, on average, 19 – 23 inches (48 – 58 cm) tall and 100 – 120 pounds (45 – 54 kg).
Regardless of size class, American Bullies have a robust and wide frame with large, boxy skulls, square muzzles, powerful jaws, oval shaped dark brown or blue eyes, and loose skin around their sides and jaw. Their single, smooth short coat that can be one of nine colors, only occasionally sheds and only needs to be brushed once a week, or as needed, their ears looked at and cleaned if need be once a week. And, because of their short coat, they do not need to be bathed more than once every two to three months, or as needed.
To maintain muscle mass and energy levels, the American Bully needs a nutritional diet with 30% protein. Bullies do need at least 30 to 60 minutes of exercise per day to prevent obesity and decrease boredom. Thankfully, this very smart breed loves playing outside. And, with the right care and attention, the American Bully will live 10 to 13 years, protecting and caring for their families until the end.
A table of the American Bully’s main features and attributes is below.
| American Bully | American Bully Features |
| Appearance | Colors: black, white, gray, brown, blue, tan, fawn, red, pie bald, can be bi colored or tri colored; Oval shaped eyes – dark brown/blue; large head, powerful jaws, square muzzles, stocky, wide, powerful, muscular |
| Height | Pocket: 13 – 17 inches (33 – 43 cm)Standard: 16 – 20 inches (40 – 51 cm)Giant/XL: 19 – 23 inches (48 – 58 cm) |
| Weight | Pocket: 25 – 50 pounds (11 – 23 kg)Standard: 60 – 120 pounds (27 – 54 kg)Giant/XL: 100 – 120 pounds (45 – 54 kg) |
| Characteristics | Loyal, protective, kind, reliable, trustworthy, good with kids, calm, sweet, outgoing, courageous |
| Energy Level | Regular (3 out of 5) |
| Shedding Level | Occasionally (2 out of 5) |
| Barking Level | Infrequently (2 out of 5) |
| Friendliness | Affectionate (5 out of 5) |
| Aggressiveness | Passive (1 out of 5) |
| Loyalty | Most Loyal (5 out of 5) |
50. Dalmatian
Also known as the English coach dog, the carriage dog, and the Fire House dog, it is not clear where and when the Dalmatian originated, but they were known as the “jack-of-all-trades” breed and have a long and storied history.
One theory, is that the Dalmatian originated in the coastline region of Dalmatia, Australia. It is also theorized that there were spotted dogs as far back as 3700 BC in Egypt during King Cheops reign as the Great Pyramid was built. Yet another theory, is that Dalmatians originated in 400 BC after the Cretan Hound (from the Greek Island of Crete) was bred with the Bahakaa dog (White Antelope Dog) that hunted deer and ran alongside horses naturally.
The name Dalmatian itself also has multiple different theories as to how it came about. Whether it was from the Croatian province of Dalmatia in the 1800s or Dalmatia Australia, the Dalmatian is grouped with retrievers, but isn’t actually related to modern retrievers.
Regardless of its origin, the breed was a jack of all tradess truly. They guarded horses and coaches while on the move. They helped herd, retrieve, guard, and control vermin. They were excellent messenger dogs during both World Wars, and were also utilized as circus performers.
Before automobiles, travelers on coaches and horseback needed dogs that were small enough to hang out under wagon axles yet also naturally inclined to run alongside. In the 1700s, Dalmatians were highly desired to travel alongside nobles and merchants, providing protection from any threats.
Because of their protective instincts, they were frequently kenneled in stables, growing up with horses so they could get used to each other. When firefighters began using horse drawn carriages, Dalmatians became the go-to choice to run alongside the engine and horses. They not only acted like sires by barking and alerting pedestrians, but they also helped kept horses calm while the firefighters worked.
However, even though the Dalmatian can do just about anything needed, their popularity peaked after Disney’s 1996 101 Dalmatians movie. Today, Dalmatians are a dying breed. Recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC) in 1888, they may not be rare, but they are certainly much less popular now. Mainly because of their difficult and stubborn temperaments.
For those that still exist, most can be found as companion animals, sporting dogs, and show dogs. Dalmatians are loyal, reserve, sensitive, enthusiastic, and highly energetic. However, while they can make great companions, they need to be raised with love and consistent training as their high energy can be too much for families with small children.
Well known for their white coat with brown or black spots that do not appear until 10 to 14 days of age, Dalmatians have a short and dense coat, a long, thin, upward curved tail, arched neck, strong body, and floppy ears. Additionally, 30% of Dalmatians, if not from a champion line, are born with some sort of deafeness. 8% are deaf in both ears, while roughly 22% are unilaterally deaf. This deafness has led to some people labeling Dalmatians as dumb, when, in fact, they are a fairly smart breed that learns routines easily. Rather, they can be hard to train because of their stubbornness and independent thinking.
On top of their potential to be deaf, it is important to also keep an eye on the levels of purine they intake. Purines can be found in duck, game meats, red meats, offal, sardines, and tuna. Due to an inherited defect and a kidney and liver process that differs from other breeds, Dalmatians are more prone to kidney stones caused by purines and increased uric acid levels. To prevent kidney stones and crystals in their urine, stick to 20 to 24% protein of chicken, turkey, and/or rabbit.
Dalmatians, ranging in size from 19 – 24 inches (48 – 61 cm) and 45 – 70 pounds (20 – 31.7 kg), still have their protective instincts, and can be watchdogs, but they do not bark much. Living 10 to 13 years, this bright and loyal breed does need at least two hours of exercise per day to keep their stubborn tendencies at bay.
In terms of grooming, even though they do have a short coat, they tend to be heavy shedders, requiring at least one coat brushing per week and teeth brushed twice weekly. Monthly, it is important to check their ears and trim their nails. And every three to four months, no more than three to four times a year, or as needed, they should be bathed to remove the debris and dirt.
While known to be the jack of all trades, It is important to remember that every individual Dalmatian differs. But with the proper care and attention, this beautiful and dignified breed lives up to his long and storied history.
A table of the Dalmatian’s main features and attributes is below.
| Dalmatian | Dalmatian Features |
| Appearance | White with black or brown spots; short dense coat; natural athlete; strong body; arched neck; deep chest; floppy ears |
| Height | 19 – 24 inches (48 – 61 cm) |
| Weight | 45 – 70 pounds (20 – 31.7 kg) |
| Characteristics | Loyal, bright, dignified, smart, stubborn, independent, protective, energetic, sensitive, friendly, enthusiastic |
| Energy Level | High-Level (5 out of 5) |
| Shedding Level | Regularly (4 out of 5) |
| Barking Level | Infrequently (2 out of 5) |
| Friendliness | Affectionate (5 out of 5) |
| Aggressiveness | Aggressive (3 out of 5) |
| Loyalty | Most Loyal (5 out of 5) |
51. Akita Inu
The Akita Inu (Akita) originated in the Akita Prefecture in Odate, Japan at least 1000 years ago. The Akita Inu was bred to be a human companion, guard dog, and a helper for hunters hunting boar, elk, and the Yezo bear.
The Akita Inue is known as a snow dog as it wasn’t until the 1930s that the breed left the snowy, rural, mountainous region of their origin Japan. Owning an Akita was restricted to members of the Imperial family and is still considered a national treasure to Japan. Outside of the Imperial family, when a child is born, the family usuall receives a small statue of an Akita, a symbol of health, happiness, and a long life. In elaborate Imperial ceremonies, Akitas are decorated alongside their owners, and provided special leashes that denote the rank and standing of their owner.
In 1931, the Japanese government designated the breed as a “natural monument”, and in 1937, Helen Keller – author and political activist – brought the first Akita to the US after she was given an Akita puppy as a gift during her tour of Japan.
Today, Akita Inus are still utilized as police dogs, but they are also routinely utilized as therapy dogs, visiting nursing homes, schools, and libraries.
Formally recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1972, Akitas can also be found in the confirmation ring and participating in dog sports such as obedience and agility courses.
Hardwired for protection and loyal to a fault, Akitas can be strong willed and overly protective. While they would prefer to be only dogs and are not typically aggressive, they thrive on human companionship but can be standoffish towards unfamiliar people. With that being said, this heavy boned, large headed, double coated breed, is silly, clever, fearless, proud, and brave.
Weighing, on average, 55 – 75 pounds ( 25 – 34 kg) and standing 22.5 – 27.5 inches (57 – 70 cm) in height, Japanese Akita Inus have a curled tail that loops over their back, small, triangular shaped eyes, erect ears, and a deep, narrow chest. To maintain a healthy weight, they need at least one to two hours of purposeful exercise, such as long walks or running with their handlers, and a rich in protein and carbohydrate diet that consists of 1400 to 2100 calories per day.
Akitas are highly intelligent. But they are also stubborn. When they aren’t exercising or helping people with their anxieties, the Akita Inu, also known as the “silent hunter”, is an infrequent barker. Instead, they are considered vocal, communicating through grunts, mumbles, and moans.
Akita Inus actually groom themselves much like cats do and therefore, once a month, they should be bathed their ears cleaned and nails trimmed. Once a week, their coat should be brushed to prevent mats and tangles, and their teeth cleaned preferrably three times a week.
With the proper care and attention, Akita Inus can live, on average, 10 to 12 years, gracing your family with the same beautiful, dignified regalness that they graced the Japanese Imperial family for over a thousand years.
A table of the Akita Inu’s main features and attributes is below.
| Akita Inu | Akita Inu Features |
| Appearance | Coat colors: red, brindle, white, red fawn, sesame – red fawn and black tips; Double Coat: short to medium, very dense – thick, soft undercoat, longer, coarser guard hair; erect ears, small triangle eyes, heavy boned, large head, deep and narrow chest, sturdy body, upwards curled tail |
| Height | 22.5 – 27.5 inches (57 – 70 cm) |
| Weight | 55 – 75 pounds ( 25 – 34 kg) |
| Characteristics | Independent, loyal, silly, affectionate, attentive, strong-willed, protective, strong, fearless, brave |
| Energy Level | Energetic (4 out of 5) |
| Shedding Level | Seasonally and Regularly (4 out of 5) |
| Barking Level | Infrequently but can be vocal (2 out of 5) |
| Friendliness | Affectionate (5 out of 5) |
| Aggressiveness | Aggressive usually towards other dogs, not humans (2 out of 5) |
| Loyalty | Most Loyal (5 out of 5) |
What Are the Main Types of Dog Breeds?
The main types of dog breeds are classified as sporting dog breed, hound dog breeds and working dog breeds, the entire list of main types of dog breeds is found below.
- Sporting dog breeds: Labrador Retriever, Irish Setter, German Shorthaired Pointer, Field Spaniel and Vizsla are examples of sporting dog breeds. Sporting dog breed types are dogs bred for hunting. Sporting dog breed types share characteristics that set them apart for hunting and retrieving. Traits such as water-resistant coats, alertness, and high energy are all common among sporting breeds. There are 32 sporting dog breeds recognized by the AKC, 37 by the Canadian Kennel Club (CKC) and 38 by the Kennel Club UK. On Average, this represents 16% of the total registered breeds.
- Hound dog breeds: Afghan Hounds, Basset Hounds, Dachshunds, Irish Wolfhounds, Rhodesian Ridgeback, and Whippets are all examples of hound dog breeds. Hound dog breeds include dogs bred to track, chase, and even catch their prey using their noses, sight, and speed. Currently there are 32 hound breeds recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC), 34 by the Canadian Kennel Club (CKC), and 38 recognized by the Kennel Club UK. On Average, this represents 17% of the total registered breeds.
- Working dog breeds: Alaskan Malamutes, Boxers, Doberman Pinschers, Great Danes, Newfoundlands, and Standard Schnauzers are all breeds part of the working dog breed group. Working dog breeds were bred to help protect people and property, as well as help rescue people and animals, and pull heavy sleds. These dogs are smart, agile, watchful, and busybodies. Double coats, stamina, and independence are all traits that can be found among working dogs. The American Kennel Club (AKC) recognizes 31 working dog breeds, 35 breeds are recognized by the Canadian Kennel Club (CKC), and 26 breeds are recognized by The Kennel Club UK. On Average, this represents 15% of the total registered breeds.
- Terrier dog breeds: Airedale Terriers, Bull Terriers, Cairn Terriers, Irish Terriers, and Russell Terriers are just a few of the dog breeds that make up the Terrier Group. Ranging from small to large, terriers were bred to hunt and kill small vermin around homes and estates. Traits commonly found in terriers include keen senses, high prey drive, and high energy levels. 31 terrier breeds are recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC), 30 by the Canadian Kennel Club (CKC), and 27 are recognized by The Kennel Club UK. On Average, this represents 15% of the total registered breeds.
- Toy dog breeds: Chihuahuas, Maltese, Papillons, Pomeranians, pugs, and Shih Tzus are all part of the toy dog breed group. Bred purely for their companionship, toy dog breeds tend to be on the smaller size, making them great apartment dogs and lap dogs. Though small in size, common traits found amongst toy breeds include big personalities, large barks, and feisty personalities. The American Kennel Club (AKC) recognizes 23 toy dog breeds, 25 are recognized by the Canadian Kennel Club (CKC), and The Kennel Club UK recognizes 24. On Average, this represents 12% of the total registered breeds.
- Non-sporting dog breeds: Bulldogs, Chow Chows, Dalmatians, Poodles, and Shiba Inus are a few of the breeds that make up the non-sporting dog group. One of the most diverse breed groups, non-sporting dogs range from preferring to stay home and nap to needing space to run and play. The common trait all dogs in this group share, is their love of owners and families. 20 non-sporting dog breeds are recognized by the AKC (American Kennel Club) and the Canadian Kennel Club (CKC) recognizes 21. Whereas The Kennel Club UK does not have a non-sporting group, but does recognize 30 breeds as part of their utility dog group. On Average, this represents 10% of the total registered breeds.
- Herding dog breeds: Australian Shepherds, Belgian Malionis, Collies, German Shepherds, and Pembroke Welsh Corgis are all herding dog breeds. Herding dogs were bred to be able to help farmers and ranchers control animal herds. They make decisions in an instant, are highly athletic, and need jobs to keep them happy. The American Kennel Club (AKC) recognizes 33 different herding breeds, 31 breeds are recognized by the CKC (Canadian Kennel Club), and 39 dog breeds can be found in the pastoral group of The Kennel Club UK. On Average, this represents 17% of the total registered breeds.
- Miscellaneous dog breeds: Miscellaneous dog breed types are not registered in the AKC Stud Book as a recognized breed of dog. There are 7 main types of dog breed groups such as sporting, hound, working, terrier, toy, non-sporting, and herding. There is an 8th dog breed type designated as miscellaneous, or eligible for future recognition. Apart from the main types of dog breeds, there are about 400 recognized dog breeds by various clubs around the world. Older dog clubs have fewer registered breeds. For example, the Kennel Club of the United Kingdom recognizes 222 dog breeds. The Kennel Club UK is the oldest recognized kennel club. There are 200 kinds of dogs recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC). Dog breeds fall under 7 breed types with an 8th type eligible for future recognition.
Purebred dogs are defined and categorized by the AKC as dogs bred from a registered bloodline. Purebred dogs such as Labrador Retrievers, Irish Setters, and German Shorthaired Pointers are registered bloodline breeds.
1. List of Sporting Dog Breeds
A List of sporting dog breeds is found below.
- Labrador Retriever (LR): Labrador Retrievers are a large sporting dog breed with an average weight of 68 pounds (31 kg). Male Labrador Retrievers have an average weight of 65 – 80 pounds (29 – 36 kg) and females have an average weight of 55 – 70 pounds (25 – 32 kg). Males have an average height of 22.5 – 24.5 inches and females have an average height of 21.5 – 23.5 inches. Labradors’ main characteristics and traits are their double coat, high energy, intelligence, gentleness, outgoing personality, and tolerance. Labrador Retriever’s coats are short and double-coated type. Double coat types give sporting dogs like the Labrador, water repellency, temperature regulation, and dirt resistance. Labrador Retrievers’ coats are advantageous for hunting in the rain and retrieving game from a lake, especially in cold weather. Cold temperatures and water freeze and soak single-coated dog breeds, whereas double-coated breeds have greater insulation from temperature changes than single-coated fur coats.The K9 Training Institute, an organization committed to strengthening the bond between owner and dog, recommends Labrador Retrievers for those owners with limited time or are looking for an easy breed to train.
- German Shorthaired Pointer (GSP): GSP’s are a medium to large sporting breed with an average weight of 57.5 pounds (26 kg). Male German Shorthaired Pointers have an average weight of 55 – 70 pounds (25 – 32 kg) and females have an average weight of 45 – 60 pounds (20 – 27 kg). Males have an average height of 23 – 25 inches, and females have an average height of 21 – 23 inches. Traits of the German Shorthaired Pointer include its short double coat type, inquisitive and affectionate personality, boldness and liveliness, and cooperativeness and trainability. German Shorthaired Pointers have a short, smooth, double coat type. The German Shorthaired Pointer’s double coat is a superior coat type for sporting dogs and provides water repellency, insulation, and protection when out on a hunt. The German Shorthaired Pointer is cooperative, eager to learn and adapt to its owner, and high level energy dogs. These traits make for a trustworthy sporting dog that follows a hunter’s lead, obeys commands, and learns new things quickly.
- Irish Setter (ISET) : Irish Setters are a medium to large-sized sporting breed with an average weight of 65 pounds (29 kg). Male Irish Setters have an average weight of 70 pounds (32 kg) and females have an average weight of 60 pounds (27 kg). Males have an average height of 27 inches and females have an average height of 25 inches. The primary characteristics of an Irish Setter are the breed’s silky double coat, affectionate but independent demeanor, and lively athleticism. An Irish Setter’s coat is a silky, straight double coat type. This double coat is preferred in sporting breeds as it protects the dog from sleet, rain, and snow and repels water from puddles or ponds. Water repellency shields this dog from the cold.The Irish Setter’s athleticism makes this breed an ideal sporting dog. Irish Setters’ stamina allows them to wade through water and travel long distances when out on a hunt.
- Weimaraner (WEIM): Weimaraners are a medium to large sporting dog breed with an average weight of 72.5 pounds (33 kg), males having an average weight of 70 – 90 pounds (32 – 41 kg), and females having an average weight of 55 – 75 pounds (25 – 34 kg). Males have an average height of 25 – 27 inches, and females have an average height of 23 – 25 inches. Weimaraners have traits that make them built for sport like intelligence and trainability, alertness and tracking ability, powerful and energetic athleticism, and smooth coats. Weimaraners are intelligent and trainable, and they catch on quickly to commands for hunting. According to K9 Training Institute, Weims need to be trained and socialized from a very early age as well as a strong and confident owner who isn’t a first time dog owner due to their independence. Weimaraners are alert trackers and are great for pointing or flushing out large and small game such as boar, deer, upland fowl, or rabbits. Weimaraner Pointers have an alert, straight body, and a short, smooth coat type. A Weimaraner’s strong build makes them a powerful sporting dog that can withstand uneven terrain. Short-haired Weimaraners coat type is a short, smooth, single coat type, preventing the dog from getting caught in thorns or overgrowth while out on a hunt. Their single coats repel dirt and light water like rainfall, though they dry fast if they get wet.
- Vizsla (VIZ): Vizslas are a medium-sized sporting dog breed with an average weight of 53.5 pounds (24 kg), with males having an average weight of 55 – 60 pounds (25 – 27 kg), and females having an average weight of 44 – 55 pounds (20 – 25 kg). Males have an average height of 22 – 24 inches, and females have an average height of 21 – 23 inches. Vizslas are great sporting dogs because they have a sensitive nose, energy and athleticism, and an adaptable and loyal personality. Vizsla’s have a short, smooth, dense, and close-lying single coat type. Vizslas can be trained to point, flush, or retrieve quail, pheasants, geese, and other birds because of their sensitive nose. Vizslas are energetic and have thin, athletic bodies and long legs. Vizslas’ energy keeps them going for day-long hunts and their athletic frame is great for pushing through unforgiving terrain while hunting.
- Welsh Springer Spaniel (WSS) : Welsh Springer Spaniels are a medium-sized sporting dog breed with an average weight of 45 pounds (20 kg), males having an average weight of 40 – 55 pounds (18 – 25 kg), and females having an average weight of 35 – 50 pounds (16 – 23 kg). Males have an average height of 18 – 19 inches and females have an average height of 17 – 18 inches. Welsh Springer Spaniels are categorized as sporting dogs based on traits such as a double coat type, careful but active hunting pace, sensitive nose, and affectionate and loyal personality. Welsh Springer Spaniels have a medium-length double coat type that protects the dogs from the outdoor environment on land and in water. A double coat is important to this sporting breed as the coat protects the Welsh Springer Spaniel from thorns, brush, sleet, and chilly waves with the coat’s water-repellency and dense undercoat. Welsh Springer Spaniels have a sensitive nose to locate hunted sport fowl in tall grasses and near or in water.
- Field Spaniel (FSP): Field Spaniels are a medium-sized sporting breed with an average weight of 42.5 pounds (19 kg). Male and female Field Spaniels have an average weight of 35 – 50 pounds (16 – 23 kg). Males have an average height of 18 inches, and females have an average height of 17 inches. The main traits of Field Spaniels are their shorter frames, dense single coat type, and obedient, cautious, docile, and adaptable personalities. The most notable trait of the Field Spaniel as a sporting dog is the breed’s short frame that travels over and under various terrain to retrieve game such as pheasants, ducks, and rabbits. Field Spaniels have a dense, medium-length smooth single-coat type. Though the dog’s single coat is not as protective as a double coat, the Field Spaniel’s dense single coat type still protects this breed from the elements such as temperature changes and repels snow and rain while out on a hunt. Field Spaniels are obedient, adaptable, and smart—traits that make them a preferred breed for sporting.
- Wirehaired Pointing Griffon (WHPG): Wirehaired Pointing Griffons are a medium sporting dog breed with an average weight of 51 pounds (23 kg), males having an average weight of 50 – 70 pounds (23 – 32 kg), and females an average weight of 35 – 50 pounds (16 – 23 kg). Males have an average height of 22 – 24 inches, and females have an average height of 20 – 22 inches. Wirehaired Pointing Griffons have traits that make them desirable sporting dogs such as webbed toes, double coats, trainability, loyalty, vigilance, and gentleness. The Wirehaired Pointing Griffon has pronounced webbed toes that make them suitable for in-water pointing and retrieving and allows for better swimming when retrieving hunted game such as waterfowl. Wirehaired Pointing Griffon’s double coat type is advantageous for withstanding cold temperatures, brush and thorns, and water, so this breed is versatile while out on a hunt. Griffons are vigilant and their high energy and determination make them reliable sporting dogs that willingly point, flush out, and retrieve game for hours.
- Spinone Italiano (SPIN): The Spinone Italiano is a medium sporting dog breed, with males and females having an average weight of 56 pounds, males an average height of 23 – 27 inches, and females an average height of 22 – 25 inches. Spinoni Italiani is a reliable sporting dog because of its wiry coat, webbed feet, strong sense of smell, and docile, patient, and trainable personalities. The Spinone Italiano coat is a medium-length, single, wiry coat type. Spinoni Italiani’s coat helps protect them from thorny overgrowth and the elements, though the it does not have a double coat to repel water as well as some other sporting breeds. Their webbed feet allow for more efficient swimming while retrieving waterfowl, despite their lack of a double fur coat. Spinoni Italiani was bred for traits that made them superior hunting companions, like a keen sense of smell helps flush out the camouflaged animals like pheasants and quail.
- Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever (NSDTR): Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retrievers are a medium sporting dog breed, and the smallest of the retriever breeds with an average weight of 42.5 pounds (19 kg). Males and females have an average weight of 35 – 50 pounds (16 – 23 kg), males have an average height of 18 – 21 inches, and females have an average height of 17 – 20 inches. The characteristics that define the Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever as a sporting breed include the dog’s red and white double coat, intelligence and trainability, and outgoing and animated personality. Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retrievers have a double coat type for hunting purposes in addition to water resistance. The red and white coat and lean, low-to-the-ground body resemble a red fox. Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retrievers’ red coat attracts ducks within a hunters range, making them a superior sporting dog. Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retrievers are outgoing, animated, and athletic. Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retrievers’ energy lets them flush out ducks and wade through water to retrieve waterfowl on multiple hour or day-long hunts.
2. List of Hound Dog Breeds
A list of hound dog breeds is found below.
- Bloodhound (BLD): Bloodhounds are a large hound dog breed with an average weight of 95 pounds (43 kg), males having an average weight of 90 – 110 pounds (41 – 50 kg), and females having an average weight of 80 – 100 pounds (36 – 45 kg). Males have an average height of 25 – 27 inches and females have an average height of 23 – 25 inches. Bloodhound’s primary characteristics include an exceptional sense of smell, stubbornness on the trail, loud baying, and, according to Kingdom of Pets, are loyal, are even-tempered, and have an affectionate personality. Bloodhounds have an advanced sense of smell that’s beneficial to hound breeds. Bloodhounds’ heightened sense of smell means that they’re fierce hunters that pick up scents that are days or even weeks old. Bloodhounds are stubborn and have calculating personalities that make them beneficial for police work including tracking down missing persons and criminals. A Bloodhound’s stubbornness leads the dog to ignore outside stimulation and keeps the dog on a trail until the scent is located. Bloodhounds have a loud, deep bay that’s beneficial for alerting hunters or policemen to their discovery. The Bloodhound breed has an even-tempered and affectionate personality that makes them ideal for hunting or tracking in groups or with their owner.
- Black and Tan Coonhound: Black and Tan Coonhounds (Black and Tans) are a large hound dog breed with an average weight of 87.5 pounds (40 kg), with males and females having an average weight of 65 – 110 pounds (29 – 50 kg). Males have an average height of 25 – 27 inches, and females have an average height of 23 – 25 inches. Black and Tans’ traits include their sense of smell, determination, baying, adaptability, and easygoing, trusting nature. Black and Tan Coonhounds’ main characteristic is their ability to track and “tree” raccoons at night. Black and Tans’ sense of smell makes them expert companions for dead-of-night hunts as they use their noses to guide them and their owners to game. Black and Tan Coonhounds have a repetitive, loud, song-like bay whenever they tree a raccoon or corner other game such as rabbits and even bears. This hound breed’s continuous loud baying is useful for alerting hunters at a distance. Black and Tans are adaptable, easygoing, and trusting hounds that change with the hunting environment to follow a scent and stay on the trail. Black and Tans’ easygoing and trusting personalities make them excellent hound dogs.
- Beagle: Beagles are a small hound dog breed with an average weight of 25 pounds (11 kg), males and females having an average weight of 20 – 30 pounds (9 – 14 kg) and an average height of 13 – 15 inches for males and females. Beagles’ main traits include a short, smooth coat, unique bark, collaborative pack mentality, and excitable but gentle personality. Beagles’ coats are short and smooth, expel heat while running and let the breed dry quickly after chasing game through creeks. Beagles are collaborative and work in packs to locate rabbits and other game such as gophers. Beagles are primarily rabbit hunters and circle a rabbit until it runs in the direction of the hunter. These hounds bay when they are on a rabbit’s scent, alerting the hunter to the rabbit’s location so he can prepare to take aim. According to the AKC, Beagles are the most popular hound breed for families in the United States due to their energetic and loving personalities. A Beagle’s high energy make them a great hound breed that track and chases game for hours.
- American Foxhound (AF): American Foxhounds are a medium to large hound dog breed with an average weight of 65 pounds (29 kg), males having an average weight of 65 – 70 pounds (29 – 32 kg), and females having an average weight of 60 – 65 pounds (27 – 29 kg). Males have an average height of 22 – 25 inches, and females have an average height of 21 – 24 inches. American Foxhounds’ main characteristics include a short, smooth coat, athleticism and stamina, a sharp sense of smell, a loud bay, and an intelligent and loyal nature with a pack mentality.American Foxhounds have a short, smooth coat type. The American Foxhound’s short, smooth coat makes hunting through thickets after small game such as foxes and rabbits easy. American Foxhounds are fast, athletic dogs that have the stamina and speed to hunt a fox for hours. American Foxhounds have a sharp sense of smell and a loud bay tracking foxes or other game and the loud bay to alert their owner when they find their target. American Foxhounds are sociable dogs that are best used in packs to hunt. This breed’s sociable personality is beneficial, as American Foxhounds play off of the lead of other dogs to find game. The American Foxhound is loyal and intelligent, making it a great hound dog breed that can be trusted to always find game and listen to commands.
- Irish Wolfhound (IW): Irish Wolfhounds are an extra-large hound dog breed with an average weight of 135 pounds (61 kg), with males having an average weight of 120 – 180 pounds (54 – 82 kg), and females having an average weight of 105 pounds (48 kg). Males have an average height of 32 inches, and females have an average height of 30 inches. Irish Wolfhounds’ main traits include their massive size, protective demeanor, watchful eye, and sweet-tempered, patient, and loyal personalities. The Irish Wolfhound is the biggest of the hound breeds and the tallest of the breeds recognized by the AKC. Irish Wolfhounds’ size made them great hunting companions and protectors from animals such as wolves and bears, but they are no longer used for hunting purposes and are mainly companion dogs. Irish Wolfhounds have a protective demeanor and are alert when these dogs sense someone or something new. This made Irish Wolfhounds good at alerting their owners to predatory animals before they had the chance to get too close. Irish Wolfhounds are not hunting or tracking dogs in the modern day, though their sweet, patient, and loyal personalities still reflect the days when they protected their owners from danger and listened to commands while out on a hunt.
- Basset Hound (BH): Basset Hounds are a medium hound dog breed with an average weight of 52.5 pounds (24 kg), with males and females having an average weight of 40 – 65 pounds (18 – 29 kg), and males and females having an average height of 15 inches. The main characteristics of Basset Hounds are their sensitive noses, independence and tenacity, vocal alerting, and devoted and friendly nature. Basset Hounds are no longer used for hunting in the United States, they still have the traits to be part of the hound breed. Basset Hounds have a nose similar to the Bloodhound and are able to find any animal they catch the scent of. Basset Hounds’ tenacity and independent personalities made them devoted trackers and hunters that wouldn’t deviate from a scent, but today make the Basset Hound stubborn to train and a wanderer. If Basset Hounds catch a scent, they trek until they find the source of the smell. Basset Hounds have a deep baying sound that they use to alert anyone around to hear of the animal they’ve found. Baying made the Basset Hound a findable dog while out on hunts as hunters would be alerted to the cornered game. The Basset Hound is a devoted and friendly dog, traits that made this breed loyal companions while out on a hunt.
- Norwegian Elkhound (NE): Norwegian Elkhounds are a medium hound dog breed with an average weight of 51.5 pounds (23 kg), with males having an average weight of 55 pounds (25 kg) and females having an average weight of 48 pounds (22 kg). Males have an average height of 20.5 inches and females have an average height of 19.5 inches. Norwegian Elkhounds have traits that make them unique hound dogs including a thick double coat, a trained nose, and a bold, strong-willed, alert, and loyal personality. Norwegian Elkhounds have a coat type that was originally bred for Norway’s snowy climate. Norwegian Elkhounds have a fluffy, medium-length double coat that helps insulate them from the cold and repel water while following the scent of elk or moose. Standard coat colors include combinations of black, gray, silver, and white that aid them in blending into a snowy and rocky environment while out on hunts. Norwegian Elkhounds have sensitive noses and are strong-willed. Norwegian Elkhounds’ keen sense of smell gives them the ability to track moose for miles in an unforgiving snowy landscape. Their strong-willed character keeps them focused on a scent for hours at a time.
- Otterhound (OTTER): Otterhounds are a large hound dog breed with an average weight of 97.5 pounds (44 kg), with males having an average weight of 115 pounds (52 kg), and females having an average weight of 80 pounds (36 kg). Males have an average height of 27 inches and females have an average height of 24 inches. Otterhounds’ main traits are their webbed feet, dense double coat, good sense of smell, and amiable, even-tempered, and boisterous personality. The Otterhound’s double coat repels water as they track through creeks, ponds, and lakes to find hidden waterfowl or retrieve a duck. Otterhounds’ webbed feet and powerful, wide body aid in swimming and allows this hound breed to easily wade through water. An Otterhound’s powerful nose makes the dog useful for hunting waterfowl such as ducks and geese or semi-aquatic animals such as beavers. Otterhounds are amiable, even-tempered, and boisterous, making the hound breed agreeable for hunting. Otterhounds listen to instructions and cheerfully spend the day hunting alongside their owner.
- Pharaoh Hound (PHARH): Pharaoh Hounds are a medium hound dog breed with an average weight of 50 pounds (23 kg), with males and females having an average weight of 45 – 55 pounds (20 – 25 kg), males an average height of 23 – 25 inches, and females an average height of 21 – 24 inches. The Pharaoh Hound’s main traits include the breed’s sharp eyesight and sense of smell, speed and determination, intelligence, trainable, and sociable personality, and short coat. Pharaoh Hounds have sharp eyesight and a strong sense of smell that aids them while tracking and chasing rabbits. A Pharaoh Hound’s eyesight helps the dog spot rabbits at a distance while the breed’s sense of smell helps the Pharaoh Hound track a rabbit’s scent for hours. Pharaoh Hounds are a speedy and determined hound breed. A Pharaoh Hound’s speed aids the dog in tailing and circling a rabbit until its owner is able to get a good shot. The Pharaoh Hound is an intelligent, trainable, and sociable hound dog breed. Pharaoh Hounds have a short, smooth coat type. This short, smooth single-coat type was selected for hunting in hot weather to wick away moisture and expel heat. Coat colors and patterns are restricted to chestnut, red golden, red tan, or tan with white markings to blend in with desert terrains such as sand dunes and rocky canyons.
- Rhodesian Ridgeback (RR): Rhodesian Ridgebacks are a large hound dog breed with an average weight of 77.5 pounds (35 kg), males having an average weight of 85 pounds (39 kg) and females an average weight of 70 pounds (32 kg), males an average height of 25 – 27 inches and females an average height of 24 – 26 inches. The primary characteristics of Rhodesian Ridgebacks are the breed’s stamina and speed, fearlessness, tracking ability, and strong-willed, loyal, and intelligent personalities. Rhodesian Ridgeback’s speed and stamina make them able to flush out fast game such as rabbits or deer and run alongside hunters on horseback or go for all-day hunts without slowing down. The Rhodesian Ridgeback was originally bred to hunt lions. Rhodesian Ridgebacks are loyal, intelligent, and easy to train for hunting tasks like tracking, flushing, and retrieving. According to the K9 Training Institute, it is imperative to start early with basic training and recommends that owners establish their leadership as soon as possible.
Hound dog breeds are dogs bred for hunting and tracking purposes. Unlike sporting dogs used as gun dogs for fowl, most hound breeds were designed to hunt larger, quicker game such as deer, raccoons, rabbits, and even wild cats and dogs like mountain lions and wolves. Big game aside, hounds are used to hunt people, such as escaped prisoners, wanted criminals, or missing persons.
The Hound Group was introduced in 1930. There are 32 hound breeds recognized by the AKC, accounting for 16% of the recognized dog breeds. Hound dog breeds include the Bloodhound, Black and Tan Coonhound, Beagle, American Foxhound, and Irish Wolfhound. Hound dogs share similar traits that make them exceptional hunters and trackers. These qualities include an acute sense of smell, determination, and a strong prey drive.
3. List of Working Dog Breeds
A list of working dog breeds is found below.
- Boxer (BOX): Boxers are a medium to large working dog breed with an average weight of 66 pounds (30 kg), males having an average weight of 65 – 80 pounds (29 – 36 kg), and females having an average weight of 40 – 80 pounds (18 – 36 kg). Males have an average height of 23 – 25 inches, and females have an average height of 21.5 – 23.5 inches. The primary characteristics of Boxers are alertness, loyalty, intelligence, sense of smell, athleticism, devotion, and fearlessness. Boxers are alert and fearless dogs, traits that advantage the working breed as family guardians and watchdogs. Boxers’ scent make the boxer a reliable dog for service work. Service work includes training as seeing-eye dogs or alert dogs for those with health conditions, including epilepsy or diabetes. Boxers’ strong sense of smell aids these dogs in detecting seizures in epileptic owners or low blood sugar levels in diabetic owners before the health decline becomes dangerous. Boxers are intelligent, trainable, and athletic dogs, traits that make the breed preferred for police work in European countries like Germany. Boxers are used in Europe for police work and their athleticism is beneficial for chasing and seizing perpetrators. Boxers’ intelligence makes them highly trainable dogs for tasks such as public order reinforcement, or assisting police officers to maintain order in public crowds.
- Anatolian Shepherd Dog (ANAT): Anatolian Shepherd Dogs are a large to extra-large working dog breed with an average weight of 115 pounds (52 kg), with males having an average weight of 110 – 150 pounds (50 – 68 kg) and females an average weight of 80 – 120 pounds (36 – 54 kg). Males have an average height of 29 inches and females have an average height of 27 inches. The main traits of Anatolian Shepherd Dogs are their muscular frame and large size, protective, confident, bold, territorial demeanor, and intelligence. Anatolian Shepherd Dogs are large, muscular livestock guardian dogs bred to guard animals such as sheep, goats, or chickens. An Anatolian Shepherd’s big size intimidates predators such as coyotes or wolves from attacking the livestock. The Anatolian Shepherd Dog’s muscular frame helps protect its livestock with ease, though this working dog is not trained to attack offensively. Anatolian Shepherd Dogs are protective, confident, bold, and territorial. Anatolian Shepherd Dogs’ territorial nature is beneficial for spotting danger like wolves or coyotes. The Anatolian Shepherd Dog’s protective and territorial personality allows the dog to patrol the grounds and guard livestock effectively.
- Great Dane (DANE): Great Danes are an extra-large working dog breed with an average weight of 141 pounds (64 kg), males having an average weight of 140 – 175 pounds (63.5 – 79 kg) and females an average weight of 110 – 140 pounds (50 – 63.5 kg). Males have an average height of 30 – 32 inches, and females have an average height of 28 – 30 inches. The primary traits of Great Danes are the breed’s intimidating size, devotion, and friendly, gentle, and loving character. Great Danes are an extra-large breed and their size helps them to perform their modern duty of guarding family and property. A Great Dane’s size—a size that is often taller on the dog’s hind legs and heavier than many people—is intimidating to both intrusive people and animals, making the breed a dependable watch and guard dog. This working dog was bred originally to hunt wild boar, because of the Great Dane’s size and have transitioned to being service dogs for humans mobility issue.
- Great Pyrenees (PRY): Great Pyrenees are a large to extra-large working dog breed with an average weight of 90 pounds (41 kg), males having an average weight of 100 pounds (45 kg) and up, and females having an average weight of 80 pounds (36 kg) and up. Males have an average height of 27 – 32 inches and females have an average height of 25 – 29 inches. The primary characteristics of Great Pyrenees dogs are their large size, double dewclaws, and strong-willed, fearless, confident—but patient and gentle—disposition. Great Pyrenees are large dogs. A Great Pyrenees’ size and strength benefit the dog in the face of large predators such as coyotes, wolves, and bears. Great Pyrenees dogs have double dewclaws, the hind claws on the back of dogs’ paws. These double dewclaws assist the Great Pyrenees in scaling mountainous terrain and help them grip onto rocks as they follow their livestock, usually sheep. The Great Pyrenees is a strong-willed, fearless, and confident working dog that sometimes gives its life to protect livestock. The Great Pyrenees’ fearlessness makes the breed an asset to sheep, goat, or chicken farmers.
- Saint Bernard (SAINT): Saint Bernards are an extra-large working dog breed with an average weight of 145 pounds (66 kg), males having an average weight of 140 – 180 pounds (64 – 82 kg), and females having an average weight of 120 – 140 pounds (54 – 64 kg). Males have an average height of 28 – 30 inches, and females have an average height of 26 – 28 inches. The primary characteristics of Saint Bernards are the breed’s strength, sense of smell, and gentle, calm, friendly, and watchful personalities. Saint Bernards are strong dogs with an excellent sense of smell. The strength of a Saint Bernard benefited the dog as a working rescue dog in snowy, mountainous regions. Mountain travelers would sometimes be buried after an avalanche and Saint Bernard’s size and strength helped to pull victims from the snow. Saint Bernard’s sense of smell benefited the working breed during a rescue. Saint Bernards could locate people feet below the snow or follow the scent of lost travelers.
- Siberian Husky (SH): Siberian Huskies are a medium working dog breed with an average weight of 47.5 pounds (22 kg), males having an average weight of 45 – 60 pounds (20 – 27 kg), and females having an average weight of 35 – 50 pounds (16 – 23 kg). Males have an average height of 21 – 23.5 inches and females have an average height of 20 – 22 inches. The primary characteristics of Siberian Huskies are the dogs’ fluffy coats, endurance, intelligence, alertness, friendliness, and outgoing and gentle behavior. Siberian Huskies have a dense, fluffy double coat type. The fluffy double coat type protects Siberian Huskies from a below-zero outdoor environment and snow and ice by insulating heat. Heat insulation is important to working Siberian Huskies pulling team sleds over icy landscapes. Siberian Huskies have incredible endurance and strength. A Siberian Husky’s endurance and strength allow the dog to pull team cargo sleds over up to 90 miles of terrain in a single day. Siberian Huskies’ intelligence, outgoing, and alert personalities make them great working dogs for sled-pulling. Siberian Huskies are friendly and gentle dogs and huskies work well in teams of other huskies or sled-pulling dogs.
- Greater Swiss Mountain Dog (GSMD): Greater Swiss Mountain Dogs are a large to extra-large working dog breed with an average weight of 112.5 pounds (51 kg), with males having an average weight of 115 – 140 pounds (52 – 64 kg) and females an average weight of 85 – 110 pounds (39 – 50 kg). Males have an average height of 25.5 – 28.5 inches and females have an average height of 23.7 – 27 inches. The primary traits of Greater Swiss Mountain Dogs are the breed’s strength and agility and alert, fearless, protective, and devoted character. Greater Swiss Mountain Dogs are heavyset, strong, and agile dogs. The Greater Swiss Mountain Dog’s strength as a working dog breed was to draft or pull carts of goods such as meat and dairy from farmlands into town to sell. The Greater Swiss Mountain Dog’s agility is advantageous for guarding and keeping up with livestock including cows and sheep.
- Boerboel: Boerboels are an extra-large working dog breed with an average weight of 175 pounds (79 kg), males and females having an average weight of 150 – 200 pounds (68 – 91 kg), males an average height of 24 – 27 inches, and females an average height of 22 – 25 inches. The primary characteristics of Boerboels are their size and strength, protectiveness, and dominant and territorial—but loyal and obedient—personality. Boerboels are an extra-large dog breed with impressive strength. The Boerboel’s size and muscular body are great for this working dog’s duties as a herding and family guardian. Boerboels use their strength to intimidate or physically reciprocate an attack from predatory animals or other hostile intruders.
- Dogo Argentino (DOGO): The Dogo Argentino is a large to extra-large working dog breed with an average weight of 90 pounds (41 kg), males and females having an average weight of 80 – 100 pounds (36 – 45 kg), males an average height of 24 – 26.5 inches, and females an average height of 24 – 25.5 inches. The primary characteristics of the Dog Argentino are the dog’s size, athleticism, strength, fearlessness, protectiveness, and affectionate and loyal personality.The Dogo Argentino is a muscular, large, athletic dog. The size and strength of the Dogo Argentino make this dog a reliable breed for hunting big, dangerous game such as pumas, mountain lions, and peccaries (wild pigs). The large and muscular Dogo Argentino corners aggressive game until the dog’s owner takes aim. Dogos Argentinos’ athleticism benefits them as hunters as these dogs cover rocky, hilly, or mountainous terrain in pursuit of big cats. Dogos Argentinos’ fearlessness and protectiveness benefit the dogs as a working breed by boldly facing dangerous animals or guarding the home of their owner. Dogos Argentinos make fierce guard dogs that ward off potential danger from their territory.
- Newfoundland (NEWF): Newfoundlands are an extra-large working dog breed with an average weight of 125 pounds (57 kg), males having an average weight of 130 – 150 pounds (59 – 68 kg), and females having an average weight of 100 – 120 pounds (45 – 54 kg). Males have an average height of 28 inches and females have an average height of 26 inches. The primary traits of Newfoundlands are the breed’s heavy, large, and powerful frames, and sweet-tempered, gentle, and trainable characters. Newfoundlands are heavy, large, and powerful dogs. The Newfoundland’s size and strength assist this working breed in its role as a water-rescue dog capable of pulling a drowning adult out of the water and onto the shore. Newfoundlands’ strength made the breed suitable for fishermen in times past and allowed them to haul heavy nets of fish from boats to shore and then to the market to be sold. The Newfoundland is a sweet-tempered, gentle, and trainable dog that can calmly rescue swimmers in distress. Newfoundlands’ trainable personalities benefit the breed in rescue work as these dogs learn rescue tactics quickly and adapt to dangerous situations.
Working dog breeds were bred to work on the farm, at home, or on rescue missions. Working dog breeds are large dogs used as livestock guardian dogs, home protection dogs, and snow or water rescue dogs. In colder climates, working dogs are used to pull sleds.
The American Kennel Club (AKC) recognizes 31 working dog breeds or 15.5% of the total registered dogs. Working breeds include the Anatolian Shepherd Dog, Great Pyrenees, Saint Bernard, Siberian Husky, and Greater Swiss Mountain Dog. Shared characteristics of these working dogs include watchfulness, endurance, and loyalty.
4. List of Terrier Dog Breeds
A list of terrier dog breeds are found below.
- Airedale Terrier (AT): Airedale Terriers are a medium to large terrier dog breed with an average weight of 60 pounds (27 kg), males and females having an average weight of 50 – 70 pounds (22.6 – 31.7 kg), and males and females having an average height of 23 inches. The primary characteristics of Airedale Terriers are their larger size, strength, and outgoing, alertness, courage, and confident personalities. Airedale Terriers are medium to large dogs and the largest terrier breed. The Airedale Terrier’s size was beneficial in the Airedale Terrier’s work as rat killers, hunters, and retriever dogs of game such as waterfowl and upland fowl, foxes, and rabbits. The Airedale Terrier is outgoing, alert, courageous, and confident. Airedale Terriers’ courageous, alert, and confident nature made this breed an asset to the British Armed Forces during World War I. In World War I, Airedale Terriers served as messengers and sentries (guards). The fearlessness of the Airedale Terrier assisted this dog while traveling through trenches in the midst of a gunfight to deliver messages. The alert Airedale Terrier stood to watch at night for infiltrations of German soldiers.
- Cairn Terrier (CAIRN): Cairn Terriers are a small terrier dog breed with an average weight of 13.5 pounds (6 kg), males having an average weight of 14 pounds (6.4 kg) and females an average weight of 13 pounds (5.8 kg), males an average height of 10 inches and females an average height of 9.5 inches. The primary characteristics of Cairn Terriers are their petite size, hardiness, activeness, intelligence, and assertive and fearless personality. Cairn Terriers are petite in size. The Cairn Terrier’s small frame was beneficial as a small game hunter and rat killer. Cairn Terriers’ size helped the breed tunnel into holes to scare foxes from hiding or reaching the tight places rats would go. Cairn Terriers are hardy and active. A Cairn Terrier’s hardiness and activeness benefit the dog during long days of chasing game or rats away from homes or barns. The tough and active nature of a Cairn Terrier helps the breed to dig after game or rodents for hours. The Cairn Terrier is an intelligent, assertive, and fearless breed. Cairn Terriers’ intelligence and fearlessness help the dog to outsmart rodents and assist the Cairn Terrier in facing small, aggressive, and clawed animals such as rats or gophers.
- Bedlington Terrier (BED): Bedlington Terriers are a small to medium terrier dog breed with an average weight of 20 pounds (9 kg), males and females having an average weight of 17 – 23 pounds (7.7 – 10 kg), and males and females having an average height of 15 – 17.5 inches. The primary characteristics of Bedlington Terriers are the breed’s size, intelligence, determination, and fierce and spirited personality. Bedlington Terriers are small to medium terriers, a size that benefitted the breed in the coal mines of the Northumberland coalfields as ratting dogs. Bedlington Terriers, though no longer used for ratting, traveled through the narrow mines to kill rats to prevent the spread of disease among coal miners. The Bedlington Terrier’s determination and fierceness allowed the dog to spend hours in the mines tracking rats and fighting rats to death. Irish Terrier: Irish Terriers are a medium terrier dog breed with an average weight of 26 pounds (11.8 kg), with males having an average weight of 27 pounds (12.2 kg) and females having an average weight of 25 pounds (11.3 kg). Males and females have an average height of 18 inches. The main traits of Irish Terriers are the breed’s size and strength, long legs, and lively, protective, dominant, and trainable personalities. Irish Terriers are a strong, medium dog breed with long legs. The Irish Terrier’s size was ideal for ratting, hunting, and retrieving game. Irish Terriers are small enough to effectively kill rats and sizable enough to hunt and retrieve fowl. Irish Terriers’ long legs helped the dog to keep up with hunters on horses.Irish Terriers are lively and trainable. Irish Terriers’ swiftness and trainable personality benefitted the dog in the trenches during WWI. Irish Terriers were trained to navigate the trenches and deliver messages.Irish Terriers stood to watch to alert soldiers to enemy forces. The Irish Terrier’s protective behavior makes the breed a good family guardian and watchdog.
- Jack Russell Terrier (JRT): Jack Russell Terriers are a small terrier dog breed with an average weight of 12 pounds (5.4 kg), males and females having an average weight of 9 – 15 pounds (4 – 6.8 kg), and males and females an average height of 10 – 12 inches. The primary characteristics of Jack Russell Terriers are the breed’s small size, energy and speed, intelligence, stubbornness, and fearlessness. Jack Russell Terriers are a small terrier breed. Jack Russel Terriers’ small size makes the breed capable of burrowing into holes to chase out foxes (traditionally), rabbits, or rodents. Jack Russell Terriers are energetic and quick. Jack Russel Terriers’ speediness assists the terrier breed in chasing rats or rodents to kill and, in the past, keeping up with the hounds after chasing a fox out of the den. Jack Russell Terriers’ intelligence helped the breed in finding the best path to scare underground critters out of their holes, and today helps them to outwit rodents before the rats hide away. Jack Russell Terriers are stubborn and fearless so these dogs will pursue smaller animals fervently and fight through claws and teeth to catch them.
- Rat Terrier (RAT): Rat Terriers are a small to medium terrier dog breed with an average weight of 17.5 pounds (8 kg), males and females having an average weight of 10 – 25 pounds (4.5 – 11 kg), and males and females an average height of 10 – 13 inches (miniature) or 13 – 18 inches (standard). The primary characteristics of Rat Terriers are their size, toughness, and inquisitive, intelligent, lively, and alert personalities. Rat Terriers are tough and compact dogs. The Rat Terrier’s size helps the breed fit in small spaces such as holes in barns, under houses, or in between tight rows of garden beds to kill rats. Rat Terriers’ toughness is useful when facing and killing multiple rats at once. The Rat Terrier is inquisitive, intelligent, alert, and lively. Rat Terriers’ inquisitive nature, intelligence, and alertness keep the breed on the lookout for destructive rodents and aid the dog in outsmarting rats to prevent their escape. Rat Terriers are lively and active, giving them the stamina to hunt and chase rats until the rat is caught.
- Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier (SCWT): Soft Coated Wheaten Terriers are a medium terrier dog breed with an average weight of 35 pounds (15.9 kg), with males having an average weight of 35 – 40 pounds (15.9 – 18 kg) and females having an average weight of 30 – 35 pounds (13.6 – 15.9 kg). Males have an average height of 18 – 19 inches, and females have an average height of 17 – 18 inches. The main traits of Soft Coated Wheaten Terriers are the breed’s medium build, versatility, and energetic, spirited, and faithful character. Soft Coated Wheaten Terriers are medium-sized dogs. The Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier’s size made the breed versatile for farm tasks. Soft Coated Wheaten Terriers are large enough for tasks such as herding and hunting but small enough to catch rats. Soft Coated Wheaten Terriers are energetic, spirited, and faithful dogs making the breed useful for guarding chickens or other small farm animals. The Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier’s energy and enthusiasm made the dog a day-long hunting companion and retriever of birds and fur game.
- Smooth Fox Terrier (SFT): Smooth Fox Terriers are a small terrier dog breed with an average weight of 16.6 pounds (7.5 kg), with males having an average weight of 18 pounds (8 kg), and females having an average weight of 15 – 17 pounds (6.8 – 7.7 kg). Males and females have an average height of 15.5 inches. The primary characteristics of Smooth Fox Terriers are their small and slender frame, intelligence, activeness, and alert and fearless personalities. Smooth Fox Terriers are a small and slender terrier breed, a trait that made the breed effective fox hunters. The small frame of the Smooth Fox Terrier let the dog fit in small openings in the ground and chase foxes from their dens. Smooth Fox Terriers’ size is still useful for rabbit hunting to scare rabbits out of their dens. The Smooth Fox Terrier is an intelligent breed. Smooth Fox Terrier’s intelligence helped them to quickly learn how to aid hunters on horseback to locate foxes and find the most efficient way to run them out of their holes and towards the pack of hounds. Smooth Fox Terriers are active, alert, and fearless, traits that assist the breed in spotting game like rabbits, chasing game from hiding, and keeping up with the chase.
- Border Terrier (BORDT): Border Terriers are a small terrier dog breed with an average weight of 13.5 pounds (6 kg), with males having an average weight of 13 – 15.5 pounds (5.8 – 7 kg) and females an average weight of 11.5 – 14 pounds (5.2 – 6.4 kg). Males and females have an average height of 12 – 15 inches. The main traits of Border Terriers are their long legs, small body, wiry coat, and alert, fearless, obedient, and even-tempered character. Border Terriers are small dogs with long legs compared to terriers of the same size. Border Terriers’ small size meant that the dog was small enough to fit in fox holes to scare foxes from the den. The Border Terrier’s long legs helped the dog keep up with hunters on horseback and packs of fox hounds. Border Terriers’ lengthy legs were great for bounding over overgrown, hilly terrain in search of foxes.Border Terriers have wiry coats that protect the dog from rain or thorns. The Border Terrier’s wiry coat type benefitted it during hunts in the English countryside. Border Terriers are obedient and even-tempered, making these dogs trainable for hunting and tolerant of other dogs.
- Scottish Terrier (SCT): Scottish Terriers are a small to medium terrier dog breed with an average weight of 20 pounds (9 kg), with males having an average weight of 19 – 22 pounds (8.6 – 10 kg) and females an average weight of 18 – 21 pounds (8.2 – 9.5 kg). Males and females have an average height of 10 inches. The primary characteristics of Scottish Terriers are the breed’s low-to-the-ground body, and feisty, quick, and alert personality. Scottish Terriers are quick, despite being low to the ground with short legs. A Scottish Terrier’s quick pace, short legs, and small body aided the breed in going underground after foxes and badgers in the Scottish Highlands. Scottish Terriers’ small frame and speediness helped the dogs to squeeze in tight spaces after rats. Scottish Terriers are feisty and alert. The Scottish Terrier’s alertness is helpful as the family watchdog. Scottish Terriers’ feisty character is beneficial as a home guardian that barks and stands off with strange people or animals.
Terrier breeds are bred mainly for killing vermin such as rats, mice and gophers. Terriers were also used for dog fighting and hunting.
There are 31 breeds that belong to the official AKC Terrier Group, or 15.5% of recognized breeds by the American Kennel Club. Terrier breeds include the Smooth Fox Terrier, Cairn Terrier, Rat Terrier, Russell Terrier, and Bedlington Terrier. Terrier sizes range, but these dogs are commonly small, feisty, and energetic.
5. List of Toy Dog Breeds
A list of toy dog breeds are found below.
- Chihuahua (CHI): Chihuahuas are a toy dog breed, with males and females having an average weight of no more than 6 pounds, and males and females having an average height of 5 – 8 inches. The primary characteristics of Chihuahuas are their tiny size, manageable coat, and devoted, lively, alert, courageous, and combative personalities. Chihuahuas are a toy breed. Chihuahuas’ size makes the breed perfect lap dogs for companionship. Chihuahuas are lightweight and don’t take up lots of space, making them ideal for small backyards, city life, or apartment living. Chihuahuas have a manageable short or long coat. Short-coated Chihuahuas require minimal grooming and long-coated Chihuahuas require a brush a week. Short and long-haired Chihuahuas are easy to manage, making Chihuahuas a low-maintenance companion for busy owners. Chihuahuas are devoted and combative, traits that make this breed a one-person dog. Chihuahuas are sometimes stubborn and hostile, making the dog hard to train and intolerant of other people.
- Yorkshire Terrier (YT): Yorkshire Terriers (YT, Yorkies) are a toy dog breed, males and females having an average weight of 7 pounds (3.2 kg), and males and females an average height of 7 – 8 inches. The primary characteristics of Yorkshire Terriers are the breed’s size, hypoallergenic coat, and bold, confident, loving, and independent character. Yorkies are a toy breed of no more than 7 pounds. Yorkies’ size benefits the breed in urban settings. Yorkshire Terriers are small enough to be brought anywhere. Yorkshire Terriers have a hypoallergenic coat. The Yorkie’s hypoallergenic coat benefits the breed as a lap dog for owners with allergies. Yorkies are hypoallergenic but not low-maintenance and require grooming once a month. Yorkies are loving making this toy breed a good choice for families. Yorkies are tolerant and suitable for families with other dogs and children old enough to play gently. Yorkshire Terriers are bold, confident, and independent, traits that aid the breed as a watchful house dog. Yorkies are vocal and alert at new presences.
- Italian Greyhound (IG): Italian Greyhounds are a toy dog breed with an average weight of 10.5 pounds (4.8 kg), males and females having an average weight of 7 – 14 pounds (3.2 – 6.4 kg), and males and females having an average height of 13 – 15 inches. The main traits of Italian Greyhounds are their compact size, short coat, agility, athleticism, and affectionate and companionable character. Italian Greyhounds are small, lightweight toy dogs. Italian Greyhounds’ small frame benefits them as companion dogs in cities, small homes, or homes with elderly people or children. Italian Greyhounds have a short, single coat. The short, single-coat type benefits the Italian Greyhound as a low-maintenance companion dog. The Italian Greyhound is agile and athletic, though Greyhounds don’t need hours of daily exercise. Italian Greyhounds’ agility and athleticism make the dog a great breed for owners that like short walks or spending time playing. Italian Greyhounds are affectionate and companionable. Italian Greyhounds’ affectionate and companionable personalities benefit them as toy companion dogs that love attention and being close to their owner.
- Pomeranian (POM): Pomeranians are a toy dog breed with an average weight of 5 pounds (2.3 kg), with males and females having a weight range of 3 – 7 pounds (1.4 – 3.2 kg), and males and females having an average height of 6 – 7 inches. The primary characteristics of Pomeranians are the breed’s size, intelligence, and alert, extroverted, playful, and friendly personalities. Pomeranians’ size allows the breed to fit into city life and travel with ease. Pomeranians’ intelligence makes these dogs fun companions that learn tricks and commands with ease. The Pomeranian is a playful breed benefitting the dog in families with older children. Pomeranians’ extroverted and friendly nature makes this companion dog welcoming to strangers and other dogs.
- Pug: Pugs are a toy dog breed with an average weight of 16 pounds (7.3 kg), males and females having a weight range of 14 – 18 pounds (6.4 – 8.2 kg), and males and females an average height of 10 – 13 inches. The primary characteristics of pugs are their size, and docile, adaptable, sociable, affectionate, and playful personalities. Pugs’ compact toy size makes the breed a cuddly lap dog and a companion owners can take along anywhere. Pugs are docile and affectionate, characteristics that make the breed lovable companions. Pugs are tender and tolerant making these dogs great for families with children. Pugs are sociable and playful which benefits the breed in homes with multiple dogs or on trips to the dog park.
- Papillon (PAPN): Papillons are a toy dog breed with an average weight of 7.5 pounds (3.4 kg), males and females having an average weight of 5 – 10 pounds (2.3 – 4.5 kg), and males and females an average height of 8 – 11 inches. The main traits of Papillons are their compact size and friendly, intelligent, energetic, and alert personalities. Papillons’ small toy size benefits the breed as a companion dog and for city living. Papillons are small enough to go wherever the dog’s owner travels and make for cozy lap dogs. Papillons are highly intelligent and trainable. Papillons are often trained for agility sports or to perform tricks and are a fun breed for an owner looking for entertainment and companionship.The Papillon is friendly and energetic, benefitting the breed in family settings. Papillons’ friendliness makes the breed tolerant and loving of family members. The Papillon’s energetic and playful personality is ideal for homes with children.
- Brussels Griffon (BG): Brussels Griffons are a toy dog breed with an average weight of 9 pounds (4 kg), males and females having an average weight of 8 – 10 pounds (3.6 – 4.5 kg), and males and females an average height of 7 – 10 inches. The main traits of Brussels Griffons are their size, playfulness, sensitivity, inquisitiveness, alertness, companionability, and watchful nature. Brussels Griffons are a toy breed. The Brussels Griffon’s small size makes the breed suitable for apartments, homes with small yards, elderly people, or owners without the resources to care for a big dog. Brussels Griffons are playful and energetic but don’t need intense exercise. Brussels Griffons’ playfulness makes the breed enjoyable and fun to spend time with. Brussels Griffons’ low exercise requirement is beneficial as a companion for city life. Brussels Griffons are sensitive and companionable, traits that make the Brussels Griffon a clingy and dependent dog. Brussels Griffons’ dependent personality makes them good companions that enjoy their owner’s company. A Brussels Griffon’s sensitive character benefits the breed as a companion responsive to people’s feelings. Brussels Griffons are inquisitive, alert, and watchful.
- Chinese Crested (CC): Chinese Crested dogs (Cresteds) are a toy dog breed with an average weight of 10 pounds (4.5 kg), males and females having an average weight of 8 – 12 (3.6 – 5.4 kg), and males and females an average height of 11 – 13 inches. The primary characteristics of Chinese Crested dogs are the breed’s mostly hairless coat, and playful, affectionate, and sweet-tempered personalities. The Chinese Crested is a small, mostly hairless breed—beneficial traits that make this dog a low-maintenance companion. Owners looking for a companion dog without much maintenance appreciate the Crested’s light, feathery coat. Cresteds’ size benefits the breed in cities or small homes and make the breed a fitting lapdog. Cresteds’ playfulness means this breed is good for families with children, though Chinese Cresteds are not recommended for rowdy children. Chinese Cresteds are affectionate and sweet-tempered. Cresteds’ affectionate personalities make the breed devoted companion dogs for the elderly, a single owner, or a family.
- Pekingese (PEK): Pekingese dogs (Pekes or PEK) are a toy dog breed, with males and females having an average weight of no more than 14 pounds (6.4 kg), and males and females having an average height of 6 – 9 inches. The notable traits of Pekes are their size and affectionate and loyal but opinionated and independent characters. Pekes are toy dogs weighing no more than 14 pounds. Pekes’ small size benefits the breed in city life or as a lapdog. The Pekingese is an affectionate and loyal breed. Pekes’ affectionate personalities benefit the breed in a family setting, though Pekes’ loyalty is usually to one person. Pekingese dogs are opinionated and independent benefitting the breed as a watchdog or in a one-dog home. Pekes’ opinionated personalities make the breed intolerant of rough play from children or other dogs, but good for owners that want an independent companion.
- Russian Toy: Russian Toys are a toy dog breed, males and females having an average weight of no more than 6.5 pounds (2.9 kg), and males and females an average height of 8 – 11. The primary characteristics of Russian Toys are their size and good-natured, loyal, dependent, energetic, and playful personalities. Russian Toys are a toy breed that benefits the breed in cities or small homes. Russian Toys’ size is helpful as a companion dog to elderly owners or owners that can’t handle bigger dogs. Russian Toys are good-natured, making the breed good for families and accepting of children. Russian Toys are loyal and dependent, traits that make the breed a clingy companion dog. The Russian Toy is energetic and playful but like to be lap dogs. Russian Toys enjoy running and playing but don’t need much exercise, so these dogs are fun and low-maintenance house dogs.
Toy dog breeds are a group of dogs bred specifically for companionship. These small, loyal dogs are popular among apartment dwellers and ideal for city life.
Currently, there are 21 dog breeds in the Toy Group, representing 10.5% of AKC-recognized dogs. Toy dog breeds include Chihuahuas, Brussels Griffons, Italian Greyhounds, Papillons, and Pugs. These pocket-sized breeds are generally protective of and loyal to their owners, playful, and comforting lap dogs.
6. List of Non-Sporting Dog Breeds
A list of non-sporting dog breeds is found below.
- Bulldog: Bulldogs are a medium non-sporting dog breed with an average weight of 45 pounds (20 kg), with males having an average weight of 50 pounds (22.7 kg), and females having an average weight of 40 pounds (18 kg). Males and females have an average height of 14 – 15 inches. The primary characteristics of Bulldogs are their watchful, fearless, affectionate, docile, friendly, and gregarious nature. Bulldogs are watchful and fearless. Bulldogs are watchful protectors at home and on the lookout for anything unusual. Bulldogs are fearless and meet strange people and animals at the gate or front door without hesitation. Bulldogs are affectionate towards owners and docile around children, though the Bulldog’s heaviness and stout size may be hazardous around small children. Bulldogs are friendly and gregarious in public and don’t mind new people or dogs, which makes the breed good for city life.
- French Bulldog (FB): French Bulldogs are a small to medium non-sporting dog breed, with males and females having an average weight of no more than 28 pounds (12.7 kg), and males and females having an average height of 11 – 13 inches. The primary characteristics of French Bulldogs are the breed’s compactness, alertness, and adaptable, friendly, playful, and easygoing personalities. French Bulldogs’ small size and adaptable personalities benefit the breed as city dogs. The French Bulldog is watchful and doesn’t bark until the dog feels the need to alert. French Bulldog’s alert and quiet character benefit the breed in apartments. French Bulldogs are friendly, playful, and easygoing, other traits that benefit the breed as city dwellers. French Bulldogs get along with strangers and other dogs and spend time lounging. French Bulldogs enjoy couch time and don’t require prolonged exercise.
- Poodle (Miniature and Standard): Miniature Poodles are a small non-sporting dog breed with an average weight of 12.5 pounds (5.7 kg), males and females having an average weight of 10 – 15 pounds (4.5 – 6.8 kg), and males and females an average height of 10 – 15 inches. Standard Poodles are medium to large non-sporting dogs with an average weight of 55 pounds (25 kg), males having an average weight of 60 – 70 pounds (27 – 31.8 kg) and females an average weight of 40 – 50 pounds (18 – 22.7 kg), and males and females having an average height of over 15 inches. The primary characteristics of Miniature and Standard Poodles are their intelligence, trainability, hypoallergenic coat, and activeness. Miniature and Standard Poodles are highly intelligent and trainable. Poodles’ intelligence makes the breed easy to train for hunting or service work. Poodles were originally bred for hunting and are still used for retrieving waterfowl. Poodles are trained to flush out and retrieve waterfowl such as ducks. Poodles’ intelligence and trainability make the breed a favorite for service work. Poodles are used as service dogs for the visually impaired, the physically disabled, or as therapy dogs for owners with emotional disabilities. Poodles have a hypoallergenic, water-resistant coat. The Poodle’s hypoallergenic coat doesn’t shed, making Poodles ideal for owners with allergies. The Standard Poodle’s water-resistant coat benefits the dog when hunting and retrieving waterfowl from ponds. Miniature and Standard Poodles are active and playful, making Poodles a great breed for families with children or moderately-active owners. Standard Poodles’ energy benefits the dogs while out on long hunting trips.
- Bichon Frise (BF): The Bichon Frise is a small non-sporting dog breed with an average weight of 15 pounds (6.8 kg), males and females having a weight range of 12 -18 pounds (5.4 – 8.2 kg), and males and females an average height of 9.5 – 11.5 inches. The primary characteristics of Bichon Frise dogs are their hypoallergenic coats and playful and feisty, cheerful, affectionate, sensitive, and gentle characters. Bichons Frises have a hypoallergenic coat that makes the breed less likely to cause an allergic reaction. Bichons Frises’ coats are low-shedding, making the breed a cleaner dog for the house.The Bichon Frise is playful, feisty, and cheerful making the breed a fun family dog. Bichons Frises like to play and fit in with families including children and other dogs. The Bichon Frise’s cheerful attitude makes these dogs accepting of strangers and well-behaved at the dog park. Bichons Frises’ affectionate and sensitive behavior makes the dog careful around children and a cuddly companion for every member of the household.
- Dalmatian: Dalmatians are a medium to large non-sporting dog breed with an average weight of 57.5 pounds (26 kg), males and females having a weight range of 45 – 70 pounds (20 kg – 31.8 kg), and males and females having an average height of 19 – 24 inches. The main traits of Dalmatians are their protectiveness, dependability, quickness, watchfulness, and energetic, outgoing, and lovable nature. Dalmatians are protective, a trait that helped the breed as coach dogs in the 1700s, or dogs that would protect unattended horses and coaches. Today, Dalmatians’ protectiveness makes the breed a loyal pet that watches over the family. Dalmatians are energetic and outgoing. Dalmatians’ energy and outgoing nature aided them in the breed’s job as path-makers for horse-drawn fire engines in the 1800s. Today, Dalmatians’ energetic personality makes these dogs a good choice for active owners. Dalmatians are lovable, personable dogs, making them good family pets. Dalmatians get along well with people, including children, and other animals.
- Boston Terrier: Boston Terriers are a small to medium non-sporting dog breed with an average weight of 18.5 pounds (8.4 kg), males and females having a weight range of 12 – 25 pounds (5.4 – 11.3 kg), and males and females an average height of 15 – 17 inches. The primary traits of Boston Terriers are their small to medium size, intelligence, and friendly and lively character. Boston Terriers are a small to medium non-sporting breed. The Boston Terrier’s size makes the breed suitable for city life or bringing on the go. Boston Terriers are small enough for small households and yards but not so small as for children to pose a significant danger to the breed. Boston Terriers are intelligent and trainable making them pleasant house dogs. Boston Terriers quickly learn commands and tricks and this breed is a natural-born people pleaser. Boston Terriers are a lively breed that loves playtime, short walks, and running in the backyard. Boston Terriers’ active and playful nature means that the breed is great with children.
- Chow Chow: Chow Chows are a medium to large non-sporting dog breed with an average weight of 57.5 pounds (26 kg), males and females having a weight range of 45 – 70 pounds (20.4 – 31.8 kg), and males and females an average height of 17 – 20 inches. The primary characteristics of Chow Chows are their size and strength, adaptability, versatility, protectiveness, aloofness, and watchfulness. Chow Chows are medium to large dogs with impressive strength, adaptability, and versatility. The Chow Chow’s size and strength benefitted the breed as a hunting and hauling dog in ancient China. The Chow Chow’s aloofness makes these dogs wary of strangers and benefits the breed as a watchdog. Chow Chows are protective and watch over their home and family.
- Chinese Shar-Pei: Chinese Shar-Pei is a medium non-sporting dog breed with an average weight of 52.5 pounds (23.8 kg), males and females having a weight range of 45 – 60 pounds (20.4 – 27.2 kg), and males and females an average height of 18 – 20 inches. The primary characteristics of the Chinese Shar-Pei are their ruggedness, intelligence, and loyal, affectionate, independent, suspicious, and reserved behavior. The Chinese Shar-Pei is rugged and intelligent, which made the breed a versatile dog for the Chinese peasantry. The Chinese Shar-Pei is versatile and was used in China for hunting, herding, and livestock protection. Shar-Pei are loyal and affectionate, benefitting the breed as family dogs and enjoys spending time with their owner. Shar-Pei’s independent and suspicious behavior makes the breed an effective guard dog. Shar-Pei bark to alert when new people or animals get too close and are reserved around strangers.
- Tibetan Spaniel: Tibetan Spaniels are a small non-sporting dog breed with an average weight of 12 pounds (5.4 kg), males and females having a weight range of 9 – 15 pounds (4 – 6.8 kg), and males and females having an average height of 10 inches. The main traits of Tibetan Spaniels are the breed’s size, watchfulness, aloofness, and companionable, and assertive, character. Tibetan Spaniels are small and companionable dogs, benefitting the breed as companion dogs. Tibetan Spaniels’ size makes the breed suitable for an apartment in the city or a house in the country. Tibetan Spaniels’ companionable personality helps the breed as loyal and tolerant family dogs.Tibetan Spaniels are watchful, aloof, and assertive, traits that help the breed as a watchdog. Tibetan Spaniels are aware of their surroundings, cautious around strangers, and bark to alert their owners of visitors.
- Xoloitzcuintli: Toy Xoloitzcuintli (pronounced show-low-eats-QUEENT-lee) have an average weight of 12.5 pounds (5.6 kg), males and females have a weight range of 10 – 15 pounds (4.5 – 6.8 kg), and males and females have an average height of 10 – 14 inches. Miniature Xoloitzcuintli have an average weight of 22.5 pounds (10.2 – 13.6 kg), males and females have a weight range of 15 – 30 pounds (6.8 – 13.6 kg), and males and females have an average height of 14 – 18 inches. Standard Xoloitzcuintli have an average weight of 42.5 pounds (19.3 kg), males and females have a weight range of 30 – 55 pounds (13.6 – 25 kg), and males and females have an average height of 18 – 23 inches. The primary characteristics of Xoloitzcuintli are that the breed is hairless and hypoallergenic, devoted, loving, wary, calm, alert, and accepting. The hairless Xoloitzcuintli has tough skin that is black or gray-black, providing some protection from the sun, though this breed shouldn’t be in the sun without sunscreen for long. A Xoloitzcuintli’s hairless body requires special care including cleaning and moisturizing to prevent issues like acne or dryness. The Xoloitzcuintli is calm and alert, making these dogs watchful and low-maintenance house dogs. Xoloitzcuintlis are withdrawn during downtime and quietly watch the home. Xoloitzcuintlis are alert and bark when someone comes to the door or the breed hears something out of the norm.
Non-Sporting Dog Breeds aren’t as easily identifiable as other AKC breeds. Non-Sporting breeds have a large gap in sizes, colors, patterns, and personalities.
There are 20 dog breeds that belong to the AKC Non-Sporting Group, representing 10% of the recognized dog breeds. Non-Sporting dog breeds include the Boston Terrier, Dalmatian, Bulldog, mini and Standard Poodle, and the Xoloitzcuintli. While it is tough to find commonality between them, most Non-Sporting dogs are pleasant house dogs with friendly demeanors, a watchful eye, and unwavering loyalty.
7. List of Herding Dog Breeds
A list of herding dog breeds is found below.
- Border Collie: Border Collies are a medium herding dog breed with an average weight of 42.5 pounds (19.3 kg), males and females having a weight range of 30 – 55 pounds (13.6 – 24.9 kg), males an average height of 19 – 22 inches, and females an average height of 18 – 21 inches. The primary characteristics of Border Collies are the breed’s intelligence, stamina, responsiveness, athleticism, and intelligence. Border Collies’ tenacity, gentleness, and responsiveness help the dogs herd sheep. Border Collies’ stamina helps the breed focus on catching and herding sheep until the job is done. The Border Collie’s gentleness and responsiveness benefit the breed when handling lambs, sheep in distress, or guiding sheep back to the herd. Border Collies are athletic. Border Collies’ athleticism helps the dogs herd sheep across acres of land and chase wandering sheep. Border Collies are the most intelligent dog breed with equal intelligence to a 2-year-old child, according to the American Psychological Association. Border Collies’ intelligence helps this breed during training, while learning to interact with sheep, and to develop effective herding strategies.
- Australian Cattle Dog: Australian Cattle Dogs are a medium herding dog breed with an average weight of 42.5 pounds (19.3kg), males and females having a weight range of 35 – 50 pounds (15.9 – 22.7 kg), males an average height of 18 – 20 inches, and females an average height of 17 – 19 inches. The main traits of Australian Cattle Dogs are the breed’s toughness and heat tolerance, intelligence, energy, and cautious, protective, and obedient characters. Australian Cattle Dogs withstand high temperatures and long days of chasing and herding cattle. Australian Cattle Dogs’ high energy helps the breed cover multiple acres of land each day. Australian Cattle Dogs’ intelligence helps these dogs develop herding strategies. Herding strategies such as nipping at cows’ heels help Australian Cattle Dogs effectively move large herds. Australian Cattle Dogs’ protective nature drives the breed to look after cattle and bring stray animals back to the herd. Australian Cattle Dogs’ obedience benefits the breed during training as the breed learns quickly and thrives on purpose.
- Old English Sheepdog: Old English Sheepdogs are a large herding dog breed with an average weight of 80 pounds (36.3 kg), males and females having a weight range of 60 – 100 pounds (27.2 – 45.4 kg), males an average height of 22 inches, and females an average height of 21 inches. The primary characteristics of Old English Sheepdogs are the breed’s intelligence, agility, adaptability, loud bark, and loving and sociable personalities. Old English Sheepdogs’ intelligence, loud barks, and adaptability help the breed as drovers and herders. Old English Sheepdogs’ adaptability allows the breed to herd different animals such as cattle, sheep, ducks, or geese. Old English Sheepdogs’ versatility helps the dog quickly adjust to new animals’ behavior. Old English Sheepdogs are agile, helping the dog keep up with herds. Old English Sheepdogs’ stamina helps the breed to travel over acres herding and finding stray animals.
- Berger Picard: Berger Picards are a medium to large herding dog breed with an average weight of 60 pounds (27.2 kg), males and females having a weight range of 50 – 70 pounds (22.7 – 31.8 kg), males an average height of 23.5 – 25.5 inches, and females an average height of 21.5 – 23.5 inches. The primary characteristics of Berger Picards are the breed’s intelligence, independence, energy, and assertiveness. Berger Picards are no longer used for herding, though the breed’s intelligence helped the dogs develop strategies for herding cattle and sheep. Berger Picards’ independent nature aided the breed in managing herds alone. Berger Picards’ high energy helped the herd large groups of animals across acres of land. The Berger Picard’s assertiveness made the dog brazen around big animals and helped the dog move herds with ease.
- Shetland Sheepdog: The Shetland Sheepdog (Sheltie) is a small to medium herding dog breed with an average weight of 20 pounds (9 kg), males and females having a weight range of 15 – 25 pounds (6.8 – 11.3 kg), and males and females an average height of 13 – 16 inches. The primary characteristics of Shetland Sheepdogs are the breed’s double coats, intelligence, quickness, responsiveness, and vocal and affectionate behavior. The double coat type is weather-resistant and protects Shetland Sheepdogs from the rain while herding. Shetland Sheepdogs are intelligent, quick, and vocal. Shelties’ intelligence helps the breed to adapt to various animals and animal behavior. Shelties are versatile and learn to herd groups of sheep, poultry, or miniature horses. Shelties are quick and vocal which helps the breed to dart around to gather strays and bark them back to the herd. Shetland Sheepdogs are responsive and affectionate. Shetland Sheepdogs’ responsiveness and affectionate characters help them to gently guide young animals or respond to a distressed herd.
- Belgian Sheepdog: Belgian Sheepdogs are a medium to large herding dog breed with an average weight of 58 pounds (26.3 kg), with males having an average weight of 55 – 75 pounds (24.9 – 34 kg) and females an average weight of 45 – 60 pounds (20.4 – 27.2 kg). Males have an average height of 24 – 26 inches, and females have an average height of 22 – 24 inches. The primary characteristics of Belgian Sheepdogs are the breed’s double coat and affectionate, trainable, loyal, and active personalities. The Belgian Sheepdogs’ double coats protect the breed from inclimate weather, such as rain or snow, while herding. Belgian Sheepdogs’ affection and loyalty extend to both owners and herds of cattle or sheep. Belgian Sheepdogs are trainable and catch onto herding methods quickly. Belgian Sheepdogs are highly active. Belgian Sheepdogs’ stamina allows the breed to keep up with a large herd, find stragglers, or quickly return the herd to a pasture or pen.
- Briard: Briards are a medium to large herding dog breed with an average weight of 77.5 pounds (35.2 kg), males and females having a weight range of 55 – 100 pounds (25 – 45.4 kg), males an average height of 23 – 27 inches, and females an average height of 22 – 25.5 inches. The primary traits of Briards are the breed’s intelligence and protective, watchful, fearless, tireless, and obedient characters. Briards’ intelligence helps the breed learn herding duties such as moving the herd or finding separated sheep. Briards’ obedient nature makes the dog willing to perform any task. Briards’ watchfulness helps the dog spot predators before reaching the flock and fearlessly chasing the threat away. The Briard is tireless and spends hours tending to flocks of sheep. Briards are energetic dogs capable of herding flocks of hundreds of sheep at once.
- Finnish Lapphund: Finnish Lapphunds are a medium herding dog breed with an average weight of 43 pounds (19.5 kg), males and females having a weight range of 33 – 53 pounds (15 – 24 kg), males an average height of 18 – 21 inches, and females an average height of 16 – 19 inches. The primary characteristics of Finnish Lapphunds are the breed’s weather-resistant coats, intelligence, startle reflex and quickness, friendliness, calmness, and courage. Finish Lapphunds’ weather-resistant double coats protect the breed from the snow and cold temperatures of Lapland where this breed is used to herd reindeer. Finnish Lapphunds’ intelligence helps the breed learn herding methods and adapt to reindeer’s behavior. Finnish Lapphunds are quick, helping the dogs to keep pace with the herd. Lapps’ Dogs have a startle reflex unique to the breed. The startle reflex in Finnish Lapphunds helps the dogs courageously dodge reindeer’s antlers and hooves.Finnish Lapphunds’ calmness makes the breed gentle around skittish reindeer or calves.
- Icelandic Sheepdog: Icelandic Sheepdogs (Icelandics) are a medium herding dog breed with an average weight of 27.5 pounds (12.5 kg), males having an average weight of 30 pounds (13.6 kg) and females an average weight of 25 pounds (11.3 kg), males an average height of 18 inches, and females an average height of 16.5 inches. The primary characteristics of Icelandic Sheepdogs are the breed’s double coat and energetic, alert, and friendly nature. Icelandic Sheepdogs have long double coats that protected the breed from snowy Icelandic conditions. Icelandic Sheepdogs’ coats were beneficial for insulating the breed from the cold and repelling water while herding. Icelandic Sheepdogs’ energy helped the dogs keep up with sheep or ponies in harsh conditions. Icelandic Sheepdogs’ alertness kept the breed on the lookout for livestock drifting away from the herd. Icelandics’ friendliness and gentleness were beneficial when interacting with injured or separated livestock and other herding dogs.
- Mudi: Mudis are a small to medium herding dog breed with an average weight of 23.5 pounds (10.7kg), males and females having a weight range of 18 – 29 pounds (8.2 – 13.2 kg), and males and females an average height of 15 – 18.5 inches. The primary characteristics of Mudis are the breed’s size, intelligence, high energy, and alertness. Mudis are small herding dogs. Mudis’ small size benefits the breed as the dog passes through large, tight herds. Mudis’ intelligence makes the breed easy to train for herding. Mudis are trained to herd sheep, cattle, and pigs and learn to adapt to each animal’s behavior. Mudis are energetic which helps the breed spend the day performing herding duties.
Herding dog breeds belonged to the AKC Working Group until 1983 when the kennel club expanded the groups to be more descriptive and suitable for dogs with strong herding drives. Herding dogs have a man-selected herding instinct that makes them suitable livestock guardian dogs (LGDs), and herding dogs are even seen herding people!
There are 31 breeds in the American Kennel Club Herding Group, accounting for 15.5% of AKC-recognized breeds. Herding dog breeds include the Australian Cattle Dog, Border Collie, Old English Sheepdog, Berger Picard, and Shetland Sheepdog. Herding dogs are highly intelligent, focused, and protective breeds.
8. List of Miscellaneous Dog Breeds
A list of miscellaneous dog breeds is found below.
- Teddy Roosevelt Terrier: Teddy Roosevelt Terriers are a small to medium miscellaneous dog breed with an average weight of 16.5 pounds (7.5 kg), males and females having a weight range of 8 – 25 pounds (3.6 – 11.3 kg), and males and females an average height of 8 – 14 inches. The primary characteristics of Teddy Roosevelt Terriers are the breed’s size, activeness, tenacity, fearlessness, swiftness, and protective and companionable personalities. Teddy Roosevelt Terriers’ size benefits the breed as a ratter and helps the dog overpower and kill rats. Teddy Roosevelt Terriers are active, tenacious, and swift, traits that make the dog a determined varmint hunter. Teddy Roosevelt Terriers’ activeness and tenacity keep the breed on the chase until rats are caught. Teddy Roosevelt Terriers’ swiftness helps the breed catch rats before they escape. Teddy Roosevelt Terriers’ companionable personalities make the dog suitable for multi-pet homes or homes with children.
- Dutch Shepherd: Dutch Shepherds are a medium to large miscellaneous dog breed with an average weight of 58.5 pounds (26.5 kg), males and females having a weight range of 42 – 75 pounds (19 – 34 kg), and males and females having an average height of 21.5 – 24.5 inches. The primary characteristics of Dutch Shepherds are the breed’s athleticism, reliability, versatility, and obedient and trainable nature. Dutch Shepherds’ versatility benefits the breed in various jobs such as herding and policework. Dutch Shepherds’ athleticism benefits the breed while herding sheep and cattle and as police dogs. Dutch Shepherds’ trainability helps the dogs learn complex herding or policing tasks. The Dutch Shepherd’s obedient nature helps the dog focus on the task and follow directives. Dutch Shepherds are reliable, making the breed trustworthy for serious jobs such as locating drugs and explosives or catching criminals.
- Kai Ken: Kai Ken are a medium miscellaneous dog breed with an average weight of 32.5 pounds (14.7 kg), males having an average weight of 30 – 40 pounds (13.6 – 18 kg) and females an average weight of 25 – 35 pounds (11.3 – 15.9 kg). Males have an average height of 18.5 – 19.5 inches and females have an average height of 15.5 – 17 inches. The primary characteristics of Kai Ken are the breed’s dark brindle coats, swimming and climbing abilities, intelligence, agility, loyalty, and alert, and brave nature. Kai Kens’ brindle coats can vary from black brindle and brindle to red brindle (the rarest coat color). Though no longer used for hunting, Kai Kens’ dark and patterned coat camouflaged the dog in the mountainous forests of Japan while hunting. The Kai Ken’s coat helped to hide the dog in the foliage while hunting pheasants, deer, boars, and bears. Kai Kens’ swimming and climbing abilities helped them during hunts. Kai Kens’ climbing skills helped the breed chase game, such as bears, up trees. Kai Kens’ swimming ability benefitted the breed while chasing deer or boar across the water. Kai Kens’ intelligence helped the breed learn hunting commands, strategies to avoid danger, and the behavior of game. Kai Ken are renowned for loyalty and protecting hunters with their lives while facing dangerous game. Kai Ken are brave and boldly cornered bears, boar, and other large, aggressive animals.
- Peruvian Inca Orchid: Small Peruvian Inca Orchids have an average weight of 13 pounds (5.9 kg), with males and females having a weight range of 8.5 – 17.5 pounds (3.9 – 7.9 kg), and males and females an average height of 9.75 – 15.75 inches. Medium Peruvian Inca Orchids have an average weight of 22 pounds (9.9 kg) with males and females having a weight range of 17.5 – 26.5 pounds (7.9 – 12 kg), and males and females an average height of 15.75 – 19.75 inches. Large Peruvian Inca Orchids have an average weight of 40 pounds (18 kg) with males and females having an average weight of 26.5 – 55 pounds (12 – 25 kg), and males and females having an average height of 19.75 – 25.75 inches. The primary characteristics of Peruvian Inca Orchids are the breed’s hairlessness, devotion, loyalty, and protectiveness. Hairless Peruvian Inca Orchids more effectively transfer body heat than coated varieties. This breed’s body heat was used by the Chimu people to treat arthritis and respiratory illnesses. Peruvian Inca Orchids’ devotion made the breed willing to spend long hours with ailing owners.
- Danish-Swedish Farmdog: Danish-Swedish Farmdogs are a small miscellaneous dog breed with an average weight of 17.5 pounds (7.9 kg), males and females having a weight range of 15 – 20 pounds (6.8 – 9 kg), and males and females an average height of 12.5 – 14.5 inches. The primary characteristics of Danish-Swedish Farmdogs are the breed’s size, versatility, intelligence, liveliness, alertness, and loving nature. This versatile breed was used on farms in Denmark and Sweden to kill rats, hunt small game, herd livestock, and watch the property. Danish-Swedish Farmdogs small size makes the breed effective as rat killers and hunters of small prey such as rabbits or foxes. Danish-Swedish Farmdogs’ size helped the breed fit into small spaces in barns to catch rats and chase animals out of dens. Danish-Swedish Farmdogs’ intelligence helped the breed learn new tasks and assist farmers. This breed’s liveliness helped the dog herd cattle or sheep, hunt rats, or chase game. Danish-Swedish Farmdogs’ alert personality helped the breed notice anything out of the norm and alert the farmer.
- Japanese Akitainu: Japanese Akitainu (Akitas) are a medium to large miscellaneous dog breed with an average weight of 65 pounds (29.5 kg), males having an average weight of 65 – 75 pounds (29.5 – 34 kg) and females an average weight of 55 – 65 pounds (25 – 29.5 kg). Males have an average height of 25 – 27.5 inches and females have an average height of 22.5 – 25 inches. The primary characteristics of Japanese Akitainu are the breed’s intelligence, courage, independence, aloofness, and reserved nature. This breed’s intelligence and courage helped the Japanese Akitainu as a hunting companion. Japanese Akitainu are courageous and were bred to hunt bears in male and female pairs. Male Akitainus distracted the bears and the females nipped at the bears’ hind legs. This hunting method preoccupied the bear until the hunter caught up to kill the bear. Akitas’ quiet nature allowed the dogs to sneak through the forests undetected by deer. Unsuspecting deer were cornered by an Akita pair until the hunter arrived. The Akita’s independent, wary, reserved, and sometimes aggressive behavior benefits the breed as a guard dog. Akitas are fiercely loyal, distant from strangers, and defend property from intruders.
- Lancashire Heeler: Lancashire Heelers are a small miscellaneous dog breed with an average weight of 13 pounds (5.9 kg), with males and females having an average weight of 9 – 17 pounds (4 – 7.7 kg), and males and females an average height of 10 – 12 inches. The main traits of Lancashire Heelers are the breed’s double coats, intelligence, alertness, and obedient, friendly, and family-oriented character. Lancashire Heelers double coat type provides weather resistance against rain or sleet. Lancashire Heelers’ double coats benefitted the dog while driving cattle by providing protection from the elements. This breed’s intelligence helped make Lancashire Heelers versatile farm dogs used for various tasks. Tasks included ratting (rat hunting), rabbiting (rabbit hunting), and driving livestock. Lancashire Heelers are alert, which helped the dogs spot rats and avoid the hooves of cattle while driving. Lancashire Heelers’ friendliness makes these dogs accepting of playful children, strangers, and other dogs.
- Norrbottenspets: Norrbottenspets are a medium miscellaneous dog breed with an average weight of 25 pounds (11.3 kg), males and females having a weight range of 20 – 30 pounds (9 – 13.6 kg), and males and females an average height of 16.5 – 18 inches. The primary characteristics of Norrbottenspets are the dogs’ double coats, agility, attentiveness, and confident, calm, and daring personalities. The double coat type is water-repellent which insulates the Norbottenspets while birding or hunting in the snowy Nordic regions. Norbottenspets’ agility helps the breed to keep track of small, furred game such as rabbits and foxes. This breed’s agility benefits Norrbottenspets when tracking elk or moose and dodging hooves until hunters arrive. Norbottenspets’ confident and daring nature helps the breed face large, dangerous game and to perform farm tasks. Farm tasks include guarding livestock, like poultry, from predators such as foxes.
- Russkaya Tsvetnaya Bolonka: Russkaya Tsvetnaya Bolonkas are a toy miscellaneous dog breed with an average weight of 7.5 pounds (3.4 kg), males and females having a weight range of 6 – 9 pounds (2.7 – 4 kg), and males and females an average height of 11 inches. The primary characteristics of Russkaya Tsvetnaya Bolonkas are the breed’s size, hypoallergenic coat, willingness to please, intelligence, and loving, loyal, tolerant, and watchful nature. The Russkaya Tsvetnaya Bolonka is a toy breed, making these dogs suitable companions for apartment life. The breed’s hypoallergenic coat is helpful for owners with allergies or owners that want to avoid shedding. This breed’s intelligence helps with learning potty training or learning tricks. Russkaya Tsvetnaya Bolonkas are loving and tolerant which benefits the breed in homes with other dogs or while meeting strangers.
- Small Munsterlander: Small Munsterlanders are a medium miscellaneous dog breed with an average weight of 50 pounds (22.7 kg), males and females having a weight range of 40 – 60 pounds (18 – 27.2 kg), and males and females an average height of 20.5 – 21 inches. The primary characteristics of Small Munsterlanders are the breed’s intelligence, double coat, voice, energy, versatility, and obedient personalities. Small Mundsterlanders’ intelligence helps the breed quickly learn commands for hunting. This breed’s intelligence benefits Small Munsterlanders as they learn to navigate different terrain and game behavior. Small Munsterlanders’ double coats are water-resistant, repelling water and insulating from the cold while retrieving waterfowl such as ducks. Small Munsterlanders have a “voice” for hunting. The Small Munsterlanders’ tone of voice changes depending on the scent the dog has caught. This breed’s versatility benefits the breed while hunting different game or performing various hunting tasks. Small Munsterlanders are used to hunt upland fowl and waterfowl, small furred game such as rabbits, and large game such as deer. Hunting tasks include tracking, pointing, flushing, and retrieving. Small Munsterlanders’ energy helps the breed on long hunts. Small Munsterlanders’ loyalty and obedience benefit the breed as a determined hunter. Small Munsterlanders listen to commands and follow hunters’ leads.
Miscellaneous class dogs are not approved by the American Kennel Club but are eligible for future recognition. After 2 years, the AKC will consider classifying a dog from this group to one of the other dog classes such as the toy dog breed or terrier dog breed group.
Miscellaneous Class breeds are enrolled in the AKC Foundation Stock Service. The Foundation Stock Service provides the resources to develop new breeds of purebred dogs and a reputable place to keep records for purebred dogs.
There are 11 breeds in the Miscellaneous Class of dogs, representing 5.5% of dog breeds recognized by the AKC. Miscellaneous dog breeds include the Teddy Roosevelt Terrier, Dutch Shepherd, Kai Ken, Peruvian Inca Orchid, and Danish-Swedish Farmdog. The Miscellaneous Class is composed of breeds of all sizes and personalities. Once a dog breed is certified as a purebred, the breed is categorized within 1 of the 7 AKC breed groups.
What Are the Dog Breed Types Based on Activity Level?
Dog breed types can be organized based on activity level. Activity level needs differ based on the dog, for example, Border Collies are a high-energy breed that requires rigorous daily exercise while Basset Hounds are calm dogs that don’t need as much exercise. Activity level in dogs ranges between breeds and is determined by the breed’s original purpose such as companionship or sporting.
There are 4 activity levels for dog breeds. Activity levels include high-energy dog breed types, regular exercise dog breed types, energetic dog breed types, and calm dog breed types.
High-level energy dogs require intense exercise of 2 or more hours a day, energetic dog breed types require 1 – 2 hours of daily exercise, regular exercise dog breed types need 1 hour of exercise per day, and calm dog breed types need 30 – 45 minutes of daily exercise.
High-level energy dogs consist of working or herding breeds. High-energy dog breeds’ exercise requirements stem from the dogs’ original needs for exceptional endurance and stamina. High-level energy dogs need rigorous exercise compared to energetic dog breed types, regular exercise dog breed types, and calm dog breed types. Vigorous exercise of 2 or more hours per day doing activities such as jogging, biking, hiking, swimming, or playing fetch is needed to satisfy active minds and bodies. High-level energy dogs need mental stimulation, such as puzzle games, agility or obstacle course training, or a purpose, such as herding, to challenge the dogs and prevent boredom. Leerburg, a company dedicated to educating dogs and their owners, mention that treadmills are a perfect way to burn that extra energy, as well as providing enrichment treats and teaching them patience.
Energetic dog breed types are typically sporting dogs. Sporting dogs’ exercise needs are less than that of high-level energy dogs, though more than regular exercise dog breeds. Energetic dog breed types require 1 – 2 hours of physical exercise each day and brain games. Exercise might consist of a trip to the dog park, a long walk or jog, or an hour or two of free time or fetch in the backyard. Brain games might include puzzle toys, treat-dispensing toys, or learning tricks and commands.
Regular exercise dog breed types are everyday breeds that weren’t bred for hard physical labor, so these dogs’ energy requirements are less than that of energetic and high-level energy dogs but more than calm dog breed types. Regular exercise dog breed types need 1 hour of daily exercise and mental stimulation. Exercise might mean two 30-minute walks or an hour spent in the backyard or at the dog park. Mental stimulation might be in the form of treat-dispensing toys or puzzle toys. According to Kingdom of Pets, dogs like the Boston Terrier that has regular energy, can also get away with just playing interactively with their humans inside.
Calm dog breed types are companion dogs bred with the purpose of spending time at home with their owners, so calm dog breeds need the least amount of exercise of the dog breed types based on activity level. Calm dog breed types need 30 – 45 minutes of exercise and mental stimulation per day. Exercise might include a short walk, playtime indoors, or a stroll around the backyard. Mental stimulation might include mildly-challenging toys such as treat-dispensing toys.
The dog breed types based on activity levels are categorized into 4 groups.
- High-level energy dogs
- Energetic dog breed types
- Regular exercise dog breed types
- Calm dog breed types
1. High-Level Energy Dogs
A list of High-level energy dog breeds is found below.
- German Shorthaired Pointers: German Shorthaired Pointers (GSP) were bred as high-level energy dogs for hunting and tracking. Neutered adult German Shorthaired Pointers need between 1,077 – 1,501 calories on an average day. Expect calorie requirements to increase by 20% for higher-than-normal exercise, and up to 300% for heavy-energy days. Diet needs consist of 20% – 40% fat, 26% protein minimum, followed by vegetables, and no fillers. GSPs’ moods are anxious and destructive without exercise and calm and pleasant with exercise.
- Border Collies: Border Collies are herding dogs, and having lots of energy and stamina are traits needed to control sheep. Neutered adult Border Collies need between 795 – 1,253 calories per day which can increase up to 300% on heavy work days. Dietary requirements include 20% fat, 25 – 30% protein, 10 – 15% carbohydrates, vegetables, and all-natural ingredients with no dyes or fillers. Border Collies are destructive or herd other pets and kids when they aren’t at work herding livestock. Border Collies are tolerant, loving dogs when properly exercised.
- Australian shepherds: Australian Shepherds are herding dogs bred with energy suitable for long days herding livestock. Neutered adult Australian Shepherds need between 986 – 1,419 calories per day. Calorie needs can double for highly active days. Dietary requirements consist of a minimum of 18 – 25% protein, 20% fat, 10% carbohydrates, and vegetables with no synthetic ingredients, dyes, or fillers. Australian Shepherds are diggers and heavy chewers without exercise but affectionate and playful when cared for adequately.
- Weimaraners: Weimaraners are hunting dogs with the energy necessary for tracking, flushing, and retrieving game. Neutered adult Weimaraners need between 1,253 – 1,811 calories on an average day. Expect calorie requirements to increase by 10% for higher-than-normal exercise, and up to 350% for heavy active days. Diet needs consist of 20% – 40% fat, 26% protein minimum, followed by vegetables, and no fillers. When Weimaraners cannot expend their energy, their mood is anxious and destructive. When Weimaraners are effectively exercised, these dogs are pleasant members of the family.
- Wirehaired Pointing Griffon: Wirehaired Pointing Griffons are high-energy hunting dogs. Neutered adult Wirehaired Pointing Griffons need between 893 – 1,501 calories on an average day. Expect calorie requirements to increase by 20% for higher-than-normal exercise, and up to 360% for heavy active days. Pointing Griffons have dietary requirements of no less than 20 – 40% fat, 23 – 26% protein minimum, and whole foods including vegetables and carbohydrates. Wirehaired Pointing Griffons bark excessively and chew without exercise. With exercise, Wirehaired Pointing Griffons are gentle and trainable.
- Golden Retriever: Golden Retrievers are sporting dogs bred for energy and endurance on hunts. Neutered Golden Retrievers need between 1,253 – 1,581 calories per day. Golden Retrievers need a diet of 26% high-quality protein, at least 20% fat, vegetables, and 10% carbohydrates. When Golden Retrievers are not properly exercised, their mood is destructive. When Golden Retrievers receive the proper exercise, this breed is friendly and obedient.
- Harrier: Harriers are a high-level energy breed bred to hunt hares. Neutered Harriers need between 1,077 – 1,336 calories. A Harrier’s diet should include 26% protein, ideally 40% fat, a mix of fruits and vegetables, and 10% complex carbs. A Harrier’s mood is anxious, destructive, and vocal without exercise. With exercise, this breed is friendly and tolerant.
- Ibizan Hound: Ibizan Hounds are a high-level energy dog breed bred to hunt rabbits. Neutered adult Ibizan Hounds need between 1,166 – 1,336 calories. An Ibizan Hound’s calorie needs can increase over 100% for moderate to heavy work. An Ibizan Hound’s diet must have 21 – 28% protein, at least 20% fat, vegetables and fruit, and no more than 10% grains. An Ibizan Hound’s mood is destructive and noisy without exercise. When properly exercised, Ibizan Hounds are affectionate and engaging.
- Irish Setter: Irish Setters are high-level energy dogs bred to track gamebirds. Neutered adult Irish Setters need between 1,336 – 1,501 calories. An Irish Setter’s calorie needs increase between 100 and 300% after moderate to heavy work. An Irish Setter’s diet should have at least 28% protein, 20% fat, vegetable and fruit mixture, and 10% grains. An Irish Setter’s mood is anxious without exercise and playful and affectionate when exercised appropriately.
- Labrador Retriever: Labrador Retrievers are a high-energy dog breed bred to hunt and retrieve waterfowl. Neutered adult Labrador Retrievers need between 1,253 – 1,659 calories. A Labrador Retriever’s calorie needs increase between 100 – 200% after moderate to heavy work. A Labrador Retriever’s diet consists of 18 – 22% protein, 25% fat, vegetables, and 10% or less grains. A Labrador Retriever’s mood is destructive and loud without exercise. With exercise, this breed is gentle and even-tempered.
- Mountain Cur: Mountain Curs are high-energy dogs breed to chase and tree game animals. Neutered adult Mountain Curs need between 795 – 1,336 calories. A Mountain Cur’s calorie needs increase to 100 – 200% after moderate to heavy work. Mountain Curs need a diet of 21 – 28% protein, at least 20% fat, 10% grains or less, and a mixture of fruits and vegetables. A Mountain Cur’s mood without the right amount of exercise is bored and destructive. With exercise, Mountain Curs are quiet and outgoing.
- Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever: Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retrievers are high-energy dogs bred to hunt and retrieve ducks and other waterfowl. Neutered adult Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retrievers need between 893 – 1,166 calories. A Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever’s calorie needs increase between 100 – 300% for light to heavy work. Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retrievers require a diet of 28% protein, at least 20% fat, 10% or less grains, and vegetables. A Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever’s mood is loud and destructive without exercise and loving and patient with exercise.
2. Energetic Dog Breed Types
The following is a list of energetic dog breeds and their descriptions.
- Belgian Malinois: Belgian Malinois are an energetic dog breed bred to herd and work alongside the military and police. Neutered adult Belgian Malinois need between 986 – 1,659 calories. A Belgian Malinois’s calorie intake increases to 200 – 300% or more for heavy work. Belgian Malinois need a diet that includes 25 – 30% protein, 20% fat, no more than 10% grains, and fruits and vegetables with no synthetic ingredients. A Belgian Malinois’ mood is bored, vocal, and destructive without the right amount of exercise. With exercise, this breed is obedient and excitable.
- Beagle: Beagles are an energetic dog breed bred to hunt hare. Neutered adult Beagles need between 586 – 795 calories. A Beagle’s calorie intake increases 100% or more after moderate and heavy work. Beagles require a diet of at least 22% protein, 20% fat, 10% or less grains, and vegetables with no dyes or fillers. A Beagles mood is excessively vocal and destructive without exercise, and friendly and gentle with exercise.
- Boxer: Boxers are an energetic dog breed type originally bred as bull baiters and later as police dogs. Neutered adult Boxers need between 986 – 1,659 calories. A Boxer’s calorie intake increases 100 – 300% after moderate to heavy work. Boxers need a diet of at least 26% protein, 20% fat, 10% or fewer grains, and dog-friendly vegetables and fruits. A Boxer’s mood is destructive with heavy chewing without proper exercise. With adequate exercise, Boxers are cheerful and devoted.
- Dalmatian: Dalmatians are energetic dogs bred as hunting and carriage dogs trained to run alongside carriages to protect the horses. Neutered adult Dalmatians need between 1,077 – 1,501 calories. A Dalmatian’s calorie intake increases 100 – 300% after moderate to heavy work. Dalmatians require a diet that includes 20 – 24% protein, at least 18% fat, less than 10% grains, and a variety of dog-safe vegetables and fruits. A Dalmatian’s mood is destructive and depressed without exercise and playful and friendly with exercise.
- Greyhound: Greyhounds are an energetic dog breed type bred to hunt game animals. Neutered adult Greyhounds need between 1,336 – 1,501 calories. A Greyhound’s calorie intake increases anywhere from 20 to 300% after light, moderate, and heavy work. Greyhounds are healthiest on a diet that consists of 20 – 45% protein, 40% fat, and fruits and vegetables. A Greyhound’s mood is destructive from chewing and anxious without exercise. With the appropriate exercise, Greyhounds are quiet and gentle.
- Standard Poodle: Poodles are energetic dogs. Neutered adult Standard Poodles need between 986 – 1,501 calories. A Standard Poodle’s calorie intake increases 20 – 300% after light, moderate, and heavy work. Standard Poodles need a diet of at least 18% protein, a minimum of 10% fat, no more than 10% grains, and the remaining a mixture of fruits and vegetables. A Standard Poodle’s mood is restless and anxious without exercise, and with exercise, this breed is friendly and loyal.
- Plott Hound: Plott Hounds are an energetic breed. Neutered adult Plott Hounds need between 986 – 1,336 calories. A Plot Hound’s calorie intake increases 20 – 300% after light, moderate, and heavy work.
- Siberian Husky: Siberian Huskies are an energetic dog breed type. Neutered adult Siberian Huskies need between 893 – 1,336 calories. A Siberian Husky’s calorie intake increases to 1,066 – 1,658 calories after light work, 1,599 – 2,487 calories after moderate work, and 3,198 – 4,974 calories after heavy work.
- Staffordshire Bull Terrier: Staffordshire Bull Terriers are energetic dogs. Neutered adult Staffordshire Bull Terriers need between 693 – 986 calories. A Staffordshire Bull Terrier’s calorie intake increases to 844 – 1,222 calories after light work, 1,266 – 1,833 calories after moderate work, and 2,532 – 3,666 calories after heavy work.
- Thai Ridgeback: Thai Ridgebacks are an energetic dog breed type. Neutered adult Thai Ridgebacks need between 893 – 1,581 calories. A Thai Ridgeback’s calorie intake increases to 1,066 – 1,970 calories after light work, 1,599 – 2,955 calories after moderate work, and 3,198 – 5,910 calories after heavy work.
- Porcelaine: Porcelaines are an energetic dog breed type. Neutered adult Porcelaines need between 1,253 – 1,419 calories. A Porcelaine’s calorie intake increases to 1,564 – 1,704 calories after light work, 2,346 – 2,556 calories after moderate work, and 4,692 – 5,112 calories after heavy work.
3. Regular Exercise Dog Breed Types
Below is a list of regular exercise dog breed types and the breeds’ characteristics.
- Boston Terrier: Boston Terriers are a regular exercise dog breed type. Neutered adult Boston Terriers need between 400 – 693 calories. A Boston Terrier’s calorie intake increases to 468 – 844 calories after light work and 702 – 1,266 calories after moderate work.
- Cocker Spaniel: Cocker Spaniels are a regular exercise dog breed type. Neutered adult Cocker Spaniels need between 586 – 795 calories. A Cocker Spaniel’s calorie intake increases to 726 – 958 calories after light work and 1,089 – 1,437 calories after moderate work.
- German Shepherd: German Shepherds are a regular exercise dog breed type. Neutered adult German Shepherds need between 1,166 – 1,312 calories. A German Shepherd’s calorie intake increases to 1,422 – 2,226 calories after light work and 2,133 – 3,339 calories after moderate work.
- Mastiff: Mastiffs are a regular exercise dog breed type. Neutered adult Mastiffs need between 2,244 – 3,655 calories. A Mastiff’s calorie intake increases to 2,788 – 4,558 calories after light work and 4,182 – 6,837 calories after moderate work.
- Rottweiler: Rottweilers are a regular exercise dog breed type. Neutered adult Rottweilers need between 1,659 – 3,375 calories. A Rottweiler’s calorie intake increases to 2,056 – 3,054 calories after light work and 3,084 – 4,581 calories after moderate work.
- Saint Bernard: Saint Bernards are a regular exercise dog breed type. Neutered adult Saint Bernards need between 2,244 – 3,047 calories. A Saint Bernard’s calorie intake increases to 2,788 – 3,780 calories after light work and 4,182 – 5,670 calories after moderate work.
- Shetland Sheepdog: Shetland Sheepdogs are a regular exercise dog breed type. Neutered adult Shetland Sheepdogs need between 472 – 693 calories. A Shetland Sheepdog’s calorie intake increases to 536 – 844 calories after light work and 804 – 1,266 calories after moderate work.
- Tibetan Mastiff: Tibetan Mastiffs are a regular exercise dog breed type. Neutered adult Tibetan Mastiffs need between 1,501 – 2,657 calories. A Tibetan Mastiff’s calorie intake increases to 1,838 – 3,314 calories after light work and 2,757 – 4,971 calories after moderate work.
- Treeing Tennessee Brindle: Treeing Tennessee Brindles are a regular exercise dog breed type. Neutered adult Treeing Tennessee Brindles need between 795 – 1,166 calories. A Treeing Tennessee Brindle’s calorie intake increases to 958 – 1,422 calories after light work and 1,427 – 2,133 calories after moderate work.
- Wetterhoun: Wetterhouns are a regular exercise dog breed type. Neutered adult Wetterhouns need between 1,166 – 1,581 calories. A Wetterhoun’s calorie intake increases to 1,422 – 1,970 calories after light work and 2,133 – 2,955 calories after moderate work.
4. Calm Dog Breed Types
Following below is a list of calm dog breeds and the dogs’ traits.
- Basset Hound: Basset Hounds are a calm dog breed type. Neutered adult Basset Hounds need between 986 – 1,419 calories. A Basset Hound’s calorie intake increases to 1,222 – 1,748 calories after light work. Basset Hounds while calm, can bark often almost a howly bark type.
- Boerboel: Boerboels are a breed of dog that tend to be placid. Neutered adult Boerboels need between 2,657 – 3,087 calories. A Boerboel’s calorie intake increases to 3,314 – 4,090 calories after light work. Boerboels do not bark often along with their low-key demeanor.
- Bolognese: Bolognesel is a breed of dog known for its placid demeanor. Neutered adult Bolognese needs between 238 – 349 calories. A Bolognese’s calorie intake increases to 294 – 432 calories after light work. The bolognese vocalises only if there is trouble, so will not bark often unless there is a threat.
- Cavalier King Charles Spaniel: Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are a calm dog breed type. Neutered adult Cavalier King Charles Spaniels need between 424 – 542 calories. A Cavalier King Charles Spaniel’s calorie intake increases to 528 – 664 calories after light work. the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel doesn’t bark frequently, and will only typically alarm bark.
- French Bulldog: French Bulldogs are a calm dog breed type. Neutered adult French Bulldogs need between 496 – 795 calories. A French Bulldog’s calorie intake increases to 614 – 940 calories after light work. French Bulldogs bark only sparingly.
- Pekingese: Pekingese are a calm dog breed type. Neutered adult Pekingese need between 267 – 448 calories. A Pekingese’s calorie intake increases to 335 – 556 calories after light work. The Pekingese breed can bark frequently at strangers and other noises.
- Tibetan Spaniel: The Tibetan Spaniel breed are known for their gentle demeanor.. Neutered adult Tibetan Spaniels need between 322 – 472 calories. A Tibetan Spaniel’s calorie intake increases to 396 – 589 calories after light work. The Tibetan Spaniel has a tendency to bark, both at strangers and other sounds if not trained.
- Biewer Terrier: The Biewer Terrier is a breed of dog that tends to be calm. Neutered adult Biewer Terriers need between 176 – 294 calories. A Biewer Terrier’s calorie intake increases to 217 – 365 calories after light work. Tibetan Spaniels have a propensity to bark, both at unusual people and at other sounds If they are not properly trained..
- Estrela Mountain Dog: Estrela Mountain Dogs are a calm dog breed type. Neutered adult Estrela Mountain Dogs need between 1,581 – 2,181 calories. An Estrela Mountain Dogs’ calorie intake increases to 2,014 – 3,018 calories after light work.
- Pyrenean Mastiff: Pyrenean Mastiffs are a calm dog breed type. Neutered adult Pyrenean Mastiffs need between 2,244 – 3,710 calories. A Pyrenean Mastiff’s calorie intake increases to 2,788 – 4,722 calories after light work.
What Are the Dog Breed Types Based on Barking Level?
Dog breeds can be categorized based on their barking level. Barking level is the frequency a breed barks or otherwise vocalizes. The higher the level, the farther the bark sound will travel.
There are five different categories of barking, the most barking, average-level barking, infrequently barking, medium-barking and loudest barking.
The most barking dog breeds are dogs that constantly bark. Constant barking can be in the form of howling, barking typically.
Average-level barking dog breeds likely bark multiple times a week, but not constantly. Average-level barking dog breeds vocalize their barks by barking, growling, or whining. Barking in this group happens when something is new, unexpected, or exciting.
Infrequently barking dogs rarely bark, except to alert or when they’re bothered, but vocalize in other ways such as whining and whimpering, growling, sighing, huffing, to get attention, or during play. Infrequently barking dogs typically make good house dogs and companions because of their barking level.
Medium-barking dogs bark commonly but aren’t vocal no matter the situation. Medium-barking dogs will bark during play or when they see something exciting. Medium-barking dog breeds are often good for homes with close neighbors due to their minimal barking frequency.
Frequently barking dog breeds are excitable and bark often during play, whenever they see someone new, or to get their owner’s attention.
A bark at between 40 – 60 decibels can be heard 15 feet away and is as loud as a human conversation. A bark at between 70 – 80 decibels can be heard up to 50 feet away and is as loud as a busy city street. A bark between 90 – 110+ or higher decibels can damage human hearing, can be heard up 100 fet away and is as loud as a rock concert.
The loudest barking breed is the Golden Retriever at 113 decibels, according to Guinness World Records. The breeds that bark fewest include the Basenji, Whippet, and Romanian Mioritic Shepherd Dog.
The less frequently barking 3 dog breed names are American Bulldogs, Basenji’s and Whippets for example.
The barking level of dogs plays a significant role in adoption. Dogs that bark more are less likely to be adopted than quiet dogs, according to a study on “Acquiring a Pet Dog” by MDPI. Dogs that barked frequently made up 39% of the returns to a shelter, according to a study by Scientific Reports.
For dogs that excessively bark, or the most barking, the Humane Society of the United States provides recommendations on how to reduce the barking. These include recognizing and limiting barking triggers, ignore the barking altogether, providing plenty of exercise, and even redirecting the dog to complete a task that doesn’t allow barking, such as making them lay down. Kingdom of Pets also recommends never rewarding the barking behavior you don’t want to see and letting them vent from time to time before using a command such as quiet or enough.
Dog breeds are categorized based on barking level.
There are 5 barking levels.
- Most Barking Dog Breeds
- Average Level Barking Dog Breeds
- Infrequently Barking Dog Breeds
- Medium Barking Dog Breeds
- Loudest Barking Dog Breeds
1. The Most Barking Dog Breeds
The most barking dog breeds are included in the following list.
- Chihuahua: Chihuahuas are a dog breed that barks all the time. Chihuahuas are loyal alert dogs and sound off whenever something is unusual. Chihuahuas have short high pitch barks of around 40 – 60 decibels (dB). K9 Training Institute describes their bark as overwhelming and high pitched.
- Pomeranians: Pomeranians are yappy lap dogs that like to bark and vocalize hourly. Pomeranians are small dogs with barks of around 60 dB.
- German Shepherd: German Shepherds bark a lot if they are bored, or guarding their territory. GSD’s bark will become shorter in tempo and lower volume if they are bored.
- American Foxhounds: American Foxhounds are a frequently barking dog breed. American Foxhounds are hounds, a family of breeds known for excessive barking and vocalization. American Foxhounds bark daily and in most situations. American Foxhounds are medium-sized dogs with barks of around 70 – 80 dB or higher.
- Bloodhounds: Bloodhounds are frequently barking dogs. Bloodhounds belong to the Hound Group, known for constant vocalization including barking or baying. Bloodhounds bark in most exciting situations. Bloodhounds are large dogs with barks of around 90 – 100 dB.
- Samoyed: Samoyeds are frequently barking dogs. Samoyeds are working dogs bred to herd. As a result of selective breeding for herding, Samoyeds are noisy in many situations. Samoyeds are medium-sized dogs with barks of around 70 – 80 dB.
- West Highland White Terriers: West Highland White Terriers are a frequently barking dog breed. West Highland White Terriers bark at every new sound or movement and are often used as watchful companions. West Highland White Terriers are small dogs with barks of around 60 dB.
2. Average Level Barking Dog Breeds
A list of average-level barking dog breeds follows.
- Akitas: Akitas are an average-level barking dog breed. Akitas bark or vocalize in other ways often, but not incessantly. Akitas are large dogs with barks of around 90 or more decibels (dB).
- Borzois: Borzois are average-level barking dogs. Borzois bark, growl, whine and make other noises regularly. Borzois are medium to large dogs with loud barks of 90 dB or more.
- Caucasian Shepherd Dogs: Caucasian Shepherd Dogs are an average-level barking dog breed. Caucasian Shepherd dogs bark and vocalize often. Caucasian Shepherd Dogs are large dogs with loud barks of 90 or more dB.
- Japanese Chins: Japanese Chins are average-level barking dogs. Japanese Chins bark and vocalize in other ways commonly. Japanese Chins are small dogs with barks of around 60 dB.
- Sloughis: Sloughis are an average-level barking dog breed. Sloughis bark and vocalize regularly but have their quiet times. Sloughis are small to medium dogs with barks of around 70 dB.
3. Infrequently Barking Dog Breeds
Infrequently barking dog breeds include those in the list below.
- American Bulldogs: American Bulldogs are an infrequently barking dog breed. American Bulldogs bark once in a while but typically vocalize in grunts, whines, and huffs. American Bulldogs are medium to large dogs with barks of around 80 – 90 decibels (dB).
- Basenjis: Basenjis are infrequently barking dogs. Basenjis are dogs that can’t bark like other dogs due to the breed’s oddly-shaped larynx. Instead, Basenjis make a noise described as a yodel and vocalize in other ways. Basenjis are small dogs with yodels of around 40 – 60 dB.
- Whippets: Whippets are an infrequently barking dog breed. Whippets bark to alert but are mainly quiet or vocalize in other ways such as whining or whimpering. Whippets are small to medium dogs with a bark of around 60 – 70 decibels.
- Romanian Mioritic Shepherd Dogs: Romanian Mioritic Shepherd Dogs are infrequently barking dogs. Romanian Mioritic Shepherd Dogs bark to alert or when something is exciting but typically vocalize in other ways. Romanian Mioritic Shepherd Dogs are large dogs with barks of around 90 – 100 dB.
- Japanese terriers: Japanese Terriers are an infrequently barking dog breed. Japanese Terriers rarely bark but vocalize in other ways. Japanese Terriers are small dogs with a bark of around 40 – 60 dB.
4. Medium Barking Dog Breeds
Medium-barking dog breeds include the dogs in the list below.
- Affenpinschers: Affenpinschers are a medium barking dog breed. Affenpinschers are yappy and bark when they are excited or anxious. Affenpinschers are small dogs with barks of around 60 decibels (dB).
- American Eskimo Dogs: American Eskimo Dogs are medium barking dogs. American Eskimo Dogs bark often in a high-pitched, yappy tone. American Eskimo Dogs are small dogs with barks of around 60 dB.
- Barbets: Barbets are a medium barking dog breed. Barbets bark when something is exciting or a guest rings the doorbell but are generally quiet or vocalize in other ways. Barbets are medium-sized dogs with barks of around 70 – 80 decibels.
- Beaucerons: Beaucerons are medium barking dogs. Barking is a common occurrence for Beaucerons, though barking isn’t excessive with this breed. Beaucerons are medium to large dogs with barks of around 80 – 90 decibels.
- Bohemian Shepherds: Bohemian Shepherds are a medium barking dog breed. Bohemian Shepherds bark often, especially when seeing new people or other dogs. Bohemian Shepherds are medium-sized dogs with barks of around 70 – 80 dB.
4. Loudest Barking Dog Breeds
A list of the loudest barking dog breeds is found below.
- Golden Retriever: Golden Retrievers have the loudest bark of around 100 – 113.1 decibels (dB). The loudest bark measured by Guinness World Records is 113.1 dB by Charlie the Golden Retriever
- German Shepherd: German Shepherds bark of around 95 – 108 dB. The second loudes bark measured by Guinness World Records is 108 dB by Daz the German Shepherd.
- Hanoverian Scenthounds: Hanoverian Scenthounds are large hound dogs that bark, howl, and otherwise balize daily. Hanoverian Scenthounds have a loud bark of around 90 – 100 dB.
- American English Coonhounds: American English Coonhounds are part of the Hound Group, which is known for always being vocal. American English Coonhounds are medium-sized dogs with loud barking and baying sounds of around 80 – 90 dB or higher.
- Redbone Coonhounds: Redbone Coonhounds are a hound breed known for being extremely vocal. Redbone Coonhounds are medium-sized dogs with loud howling, barking, and baying sounds of around 80 – 90 dBor higher.
- Norwegian Buhunds: Norwegian Buhunds are small to medium-sized dogs that are highly vocal and bark daily. Norwegian Buhunds have a loud, high-pitched bark of around 70 – 80 dB.
What Are Dog Breeds Based on Coat Types?
Dog breeds are categorized based on coat types. A dog’s coat is the hair that covers the dog from head to tail.
Coat types are part of defining a breed. Coat types help people identify breeds through coat standards. Coat standards are the standards set by official clubs like the American Canine Association (ACA), United Kennel Club (UKC), American Purebred Canine Association (APCA), and Kennel Club of Great Britain (KCGB), among others. Coat standards include coat types such as double coats, coat lengths such as short coats, coat colors and patterns such as black and white or spotted, and the cut of the coat, such as poodle cuts.
Coat type is a consideration for adoption. Medium and long-coated dogs are more likely to be adopted in the UK than short-coated breeds. Dogs with light-colored coats are more appealing for adoption than dogs with darker coats, according to a study by Animals (Basel).
Coat types are important to dog owners’ preferences or needs. For example, a short-coated breed is best for an owner who doesn’t want to groom a dog regularly. A hypoallergenic, non-shedding coat type is preferred for an owner with allergies.
1. Hairless Dog Breeds
Hairless dog breeds are dogs that are completely or mostly hairless, a unique genetic trait. Hairless dogs are hypoallergenic and is convenient for owners that are allergic or don’t want to deal with shedding. Hairless dogs smell better than dogs with fur as the breed doesn’t trap dirt and smells. While hairless dogs don’t shed, these breeds require maintenance to protect the dogs’ skin. Maintenance includes a bath once a week to remove grime, oil, and dead skin, moisturizer after bathing to hydrate the skin, and sunscreen to protect from sunburn when outside.
A list of Hairless dog breeds is found below.
- American Hairless Terrier: is usually completely hairless but may have fuzzy whiskers and eyebrows. American Hairless Terriers have smooth skin.
- Chinese Crested: A mostly-hairless dog breed, Chinese Crested dogs are 99% hairless bodies with smooth skin and small patches bunches of hair. The hair is located on the dogs tail, ankles, and head.
- Peruvian Inca Orchid: Peruvian Inca Orchids are either completely hairless or have a mohawk-like tuft of hair on the head. Peruvian Inca Orchids have delicate, smooth skin.
- Xoloitzcuintli: The Xoloitzcuintli (Mexican Hairless Dog) is a hairless dog breed. Xoloitzcuintlis have tough, smooth skin.
- Abyssinian Sand Terrier: The Abyssinian Sand Terrier is a hairless dog breed with tufts of hair on the end of the tail and head. Abyssinian Sand Terriers have smooth skin.
2. Short-haired Dog Breeds
Short-haired dog breeds have coats with a length that is less than 1 inch. Short-haired coats require little grooming, but this coat type does shed. Shedding level ranges from seasonal to frequent.. Grooming short-haired dogs consists of bathing once a month, or when dirty, and a quick brush once a week, or when needed, to remove dead hair.
A list of short-haired dog breeds is found below.
- American Bulldog: The American Bulldog is a short-haired breed. The American Bulldog’s short coat lays smoothly against the body and is no longer than 1 inch.
- American Leopard Hound: The American Leopard Hound has a short double coat. The American Leopard Hound’s top coat is rough and flat while the undercoat is thin and fluffy.
- Appenzeller Sennenhund: Appenzeller Sennenhunds have short double coats. The Appenzeller Sennenhund’s top coat is thick, shiny, and straight with a thick undercoat.
- Canaan Dog: The Canaan Dog has a short, smooth double coat. A Canaan Dog’s top coat is rough to the touch and lies flat against the dog’s body. This short-haired breed’s undercoat is flat and straight.
- Carolina Dog: Carolina Dogs have smooth, short double coats, though the exact coat length is based on the season. Depending on the severity of the season, a Carolina Dog’s coat may be significantly thicker in the winter and thinner in the summer.
3. Medium-haired Dog Breeds
Medium-haired dog breeds have coats that are about 1 – 2 inches long. Medium-haired dog coats either appear fluffy or slightly long. Medium-haired dog breeds can either have a single or double coat. Both single and double medium coats shed. Dogs with the medium-haired coat type are best for owners who don’t mind some grooming. Grooming for medium-haired dogs consists of bathing once a month and brushing every other day is ideal. Brushing daily is recommended for a medium-haired dog’s coat during shedding season.
A list of medium-haired dog breeds is found below.
- Alaskan Klee Kai: The Alaskan Klee Kai is a medium-haired dog breed. This medium-haired dog breed has a double coat. The undercoat is thick and short while the outer coat is fluffier and medium-length.
- Basset Fauve de Bretagne: The Basset Fauve de Bretagne is a medium-haired breed. The Basset Fauve de Bretagne’s medium-haired coat is a rough, wiry double coat.
- Border Collie: The Border Collie is a medium-haired dog breed. Border Collies’ medium-haired coats are dense, wavy double coats.
- Cardigan Welsh Corgi: Cardigan Welsh Corgis are a medium-haired dog breed. Cardigan Welsh Corgis’ medium-haired coats are double coats with protective undercoats.
- Eurasier: Eurasiers are a medium-haired dog breed. Eurasiers’ medium-haired coats are double coats. The breed’s double coat has a thick, wooly undercoat and a fluffy outer coat.
4. Long-haired Dog Breeds
Long-haired dog breeds have coats that are longer than 2 inches and are usually 5 inches or longer. Long-haired dog coats are often silky in appearance and shed. Dogs with the long-haired coat type are best for owners that enjoy grooming or styling their dog’s coat. Grooming for long-haired dogs includes daily brushing and a trip to the professional groomer’s every 4 – 6 weeks.
A list of long-haired dog breeds is found below.
- Bearded Collie: The Bearded Collie is a long-haired dog breed. Bearded Collies’ long-haired coats are silky and double. The double coat has a close-lying undercoat and a long, mustachioed shaggy outer coat from head to tail.
- Briard: Briards are a long-haired dog breed. The Briard’s long-haired coat is a wavy double coat of at least 6 inches in length. The double coat has a soft undercoat and a long, wavy outer coat with a beard and eyebrows.
- Coton de Tulear: The Coton de Tulear is a long-haired dog breed. The Coton de Tulear’s long-haired coat is a wavy double coat. The double coat has a fluffy undercoat and a long, wavy outer coat covering the head, body, feet, and tail.
- German Spitz: The German Spitz is a long-haired dog breed. The German Spitzs’ long-haired coat is a straight double coat. The double coat has a dense undercoat and a fluffy outer coat with a mane around the neck and a bushy tail.
- Lhasa Apso: The Lhasa Apso is a long-haired dog. The Lhasa Apso’s long-haired coat is a silky, thick, and double coat. The double coat has a wooly undercoat and a floor-length, middle-parted outer coat that covers the dog’s body.
5. Smooth-haired Dog Breeds
Smooth-haired dog breeds have coats that are short and close to the body. Smooth coats are easy to care for. Smooth-haired dog coats are flat in appearance and shed. Dogs with the smooth-haired coat type are best for owners who don’t want to groom their pets regularly. Grooming for smooth-haired dogs includes bathing once a month and brushing during shedding season.
A list of smooth-haired dog breeds is found below.
- Bavarian Mountain ScentHound: Bavarian Mountain ScentHounds are a smooth-haired dog breed. The Bavarian Mountain ScentHound’s smooth-haired coat is flat and dense. This breed’s flat coat is slightly longer on the legs, tail, and belly.
- Braque Francais Pyrenean: The Braque Francais Pyrenean is a smooth-haired dog. The Braque Francais Pyrenean’s smooth-haired coat is soft and close-fitting on the entire body.
- Cirneco dell’Etna: The Cirneco dell’Etna is a smooth-haired dog. The Cirneco dell’Etna’s smooth-haired coat is very close-fitting and thin.
- Dogue de Bordeaux: The Dogue de Bordeaux is a smooth-haired dog breed. Dogue de Bordeaux’s smooth-haired coat is fine, short, and soft to the touch.
- Doberman Pinscher: Doberman Pinschers are a smooth-haired dog breed. Doberman Pinschers’ smooth-haired coats are sleek, fine, and shiny.
6. Wiry Dog Breeds
Wiry dog breeds have coats that are thick and rough to the touch. Wiry dog breeds have coats that are bristly in appearance. Care for dogs with the wiry coat type ranges. Dogs with a wiry coat type are best for owners who don’t mind moderate to high-maintenance grooming. Grooming may entail daily or weekly brushing and monthly visits to the groomer.
A list of wiry dog breeds is found below.
- Belgian Laekenois: Belgian Laekenois is a wiry dog breed. Belgian Laekenois’ wiry coats are thick, rough to the touch, and medium in length.
- Barbado da Terceira: Barbado da Terceira is a wiry-coated dog breed. Barbado da Terceiras’ wiry coats are thick, coarse, and medium in length.
- Giant Schnauzer: Giant Schnauzers are a wiry dog breed. Giant Schnauzers’ wiry coats are medium-length double coats. The Giant Schnauzer’s double coat is dense with a soft undercoat and a thick, soft outer coat. The outer coat boasts a coarse beard and eyebrows.
- Glen of Imaal Terrier: Glen of Imaal Terriers are a wiry dog breed. The Glen of Imaal Terrier’s wiry coat is a medium-length double coat. Glen of Imall Terriers’ double coats has a soft, flat-lying undercoat and a rough, scruffy outer coat.
- Grand Basset Griffon Vendeen: Grand Basset Griffon Vendeens are wiry-coated dogs. The Grand Basset Griffon Vendeen’s wiry coat is a medium-length double coat. This breed’s double coat has a soft undercoat and a shaggy outer coat with a prominent mustachioed and bearded face and furrowed brows.
7. Silky Dog Breeds
Silky dog breeds have coats that are straight and fine. Silky-coated dog breeds have coats that resemble human hair. Care for silky-coated dogs ranges, though these dogs are often long-haired. Dogs with the silky coat type is best for owners that can handle high-maintenance grooming. Grooming may consist of daily brushing and monthly professional grooming sessions for a superior look.
A list of silky dog breeds is found below.
- Clumber Spaniel: Clumber Spaniels are silky-coated dogs. The Clumber Spaniel’s silky coat is a medium-length, thick double coat. These dogs’ double coats have a wooly undercoat and a wavy or silky outer coat.
- Maltese: Maltese are a silky dog breed. A Maltese coat is a long single coat. This breed’s single coat is soft to the touch and floor length.
- Silky Terrier: Silky Terriers are a silky dog breed. Silky Terriers’ coats are long single coats. This breed’s single coat is glossy and hair-like with a fine texture.
- Yorkshire Terrier: Yorkshire Terriers are a silky-coated dog breed. Yorkshire Terriers’ coats are long single coats. Yorkies’ single coats are thin and often floor-length with a human hair-like texture.
- English Setter: English Setters are a silky dog breed. English Setters have medium-length, silky double coats. English Setters’ double coats have a flat-lying undercoat with a longer overcoat. The overcoat is the longest on the ears, chest, legs, belly, chest, and neck.
8. Double-coated Dog Breeds
Double-coated dog breeds are dogs with two layers of fur. Double-coated dogs have a dense undercoat and longer top coat. Double coats shed undercoats twice a year. Double-coated dogs’ coats are water and weather-resistant. A double-coated dog’s coat protects the dog from hot or cold temperatures.
A list of double-coated dog breeds is found below.
- Boykin Spaniel: Boykin Spaniels are a double-coated dog breed. Boykin Spaniels have a medium-length double coat. The Boykin Spaniel’s double coat has a water-repellent, dense undercoat and a wavy top coat.
- Bouvier des Flandres: Bouvier des Flandres are double-coated dogs. Bouvier des Flandres dogs have medium-length double coats. This breed’s double coat is water-repellent and has a thick undercoat and a rough top coat. The top coat features a long beard.
- Croatian Sheepdog: Croatian Sheepdogs are double-coated dogs. Croatian Sheepdogs have medium-length double coats. These dogs’ double coats are water-repellent with a tight-laying undercoat and a soft, dense curly, or wavy top coat.
- Drever: Drevers are a double-coated dog breed. Drever dogs have short double coats. The Drever’s double coat repels water and has a softer undercoat with a coarse, close-fitting top coat.
- Dandie Dinmont Terrier: Dandie Dinmont Terriers are double-coated dogs. Dandie Dinmont Terriers have a medium-length double coat. This breed’s double coat resists water and has a linty undercoat and coarse top coat.
9. Curly Hair Dog Breeds
Curly hair dog breeds are dogs with wavy or tightly curled fur. Curly hair dog breeds are hypoallergenic or low-shedding. Curly-coated dog breeds are often double-coated but are sometimes single-coated, depending on the breed. Curly coats are dense and protect from weather changes, temperature, or brush.
A list of curly hair dog breeds is found below.
- American Water Spaniel: American Water Spaniels are curly-coated dogs. American Water Spaniels have medium-length double coats. American Water Spaniels’ double coats are waterproof with a heavy undercoat and either a wavy or tightly-curled top coat.
- Barbet: The Barbet is a curly hair dog breed. Barbets have long, wooly coats from head to tail. This breed’s coat is dense and either curly or wavy with a wavy beard.
- Curly-Coated Retriever: Curly-Coated Retrievers are curly-coated dogs. Curly-Coated Retrievers have protective, waterproof short single coats. This breed’s single coat is tightly curled and close-fitting.
- Poodle: Poodles are a curly hair dog breed. Poodles have dense and long single coats. A Poodle’s single coat has tight curls that fluff out with length.
- Lagotto Romagnolo: Lagotti Romagnolis are curly-haired dogs. Lagotti Romagnolis have a rough medium-length double coat. This breed’s double coat is dense and appears rough with tight curls covering the body.
10. Wavy Coat Dog Breeds
Wavy coat breeds are dogs with loosely-waved fur. Wavy coats are no-shedding to low-shedding. Wavy coats are dense, but thinner than curly coats. Wavy coats appear fluffy or loose and do not feature tight curls. Wavy coats are wooly or soft to the touch. Wavy coats are often water-resistant or waterproof.
A list of wavy coat dog breeds follows below.
- Chesapeake Bay Retriever: Chesapeake Bay Retrievers are wavy-coated dogs. Chesapeake Bay Retrievers have waterproof, dense short to medium-length double coats. This breed’s double coat with a soft undercoat and a wavy top coat that’s wooly to the touch.
- Deutscher Wachtelhund: The Deutscher Wachtelhund is a wavy coat dog breed. Deutscher Wachtelhunds have medium-length double coats. This breed’s double coat has a dense undercoat and a thick wavy or curly top coat. The top coat has extra length on the ears, chest, tail, and belly.
- Kerry Blue Terrier: Kerry Blue Terriers are wavy-coated dogs. Kerry Blue Terriers have dense single coats. The Kerry Blue Terrier’s single coat is thick and wavy in appearance and soft to the touch.
- Nederlandse Kooikerhondje: Nederlandse Kooikerhondje dogs are wavy-coated. Nederlandse Kooikerhondje dogs have medium-length double coats. The Nederlandse Kooikerhondje dog’s double coat has a close-fitting undercoat and a wavy, soft outer coat with a feathered tail and ears.
- Portuguese Sheepdog: Portuguese Sheepdogs are wavy-coated dogs. Portuguese Sheepdogs have a long single coat. This breed’s single coat has a thick, rough texture and can be wavy or straight with a long beard, mustache, and eyebrows.
11. Rough Coat Dog Breeds
Rough coat dog breeds are dogs with coats that are rough to the touch. Rough coats feel coarse rather than soft. Rough coats are low-shedding. Rough coats are short to long in length.
A list of rough coat dog breeds follows below.
- Deutscher Jagdterrier: Deutscher Jagdterriers are rough-coated dogs. Deutscher Jagdterriers have short double coats with a close-fitting undercoat and a wiry, rough-to-the-touch outer coat.
- Otterhound: Otterhounds have a rough coat type. Otterhounds have medium-length double coats. The double coat’s undercoat is waterproof and dense while the top coat is shaggy and coarse to the touch.
- Pudelpointer: Pudelpointers are a rough-coated dog breed. Pudelpointers have a short double coat. This breed’s double coat has a close-fitting and dense undercoat and a wiry, coarse-feeling top coat.
- Petit Basset Griffon Vendeen: The Petit Basset Griffon Vendeen is a rough-coated dog breed. Petit Basset Griffon Vendees have long double coats. This breed’s double coat has a dense undercoat and a thick, rough top coat from nose to tail.
- Pyrenean Shepherd: Pyrenean Shepherds have a rough coat type. Pyrenean Shepherds have medium-length, straight double coats. This breed’s double coat has a wooly undercoat and a rough, harsh outer coat.
12. Dreadlock Dog Breeds
Dreadlock dog breeds are dogs with corded coats. Dreadlock dog breeds have rope-like strands of fur. Dreadlock dog breeds are double-coated and have medium to long coats. Dreadlock coats have a similar feel to dreadlocked human hair. Corded coats are low-shedding. Corded coats are naturally formed from the undercoat and top coat intertwining.
A list of dreadlock dog breeds is found below.
- Komondor: Komondors are a dreadlock dog breed. Komondors have long double coats. This breed’s double coat has a wooly undercoat and a corded, thick, and soft tassel-like top coat that covers the dog’s body.
- Puli: Pulis are a dreadlock dog breed. Pulis have long, weather-resistant double coats. Pulis’ double coats have a dense undercoat and a plentiful corded overcoat from head to tail.
- Spanish Water Dog: Spanish Water Dogs are a dreadlock dog breed. Spanish Water Dogs have thick, wooly, medium-length coats that cover the breed’s entire body and form tight cords at full length.
- Bergamasco Sheepdog: Bergamasco Sheepdogs are a dreadlock dog breed. Bergamasco Sheepdogs have long coats with velvety dreadlocks formed from the breed’s tri-textured fur.
- Havanese: The Havanese dog can form dreadlocks over time. Their dense and wavy coats make the Havanese a higher risk of tangling and matting, thus they need to have their hair combed at least twice a week to keep these problems from occurring. To achieve the corded or dreadlook look the full process can take up to two years.
What Are the Dog Breeds Based on Shedding Level?
Shedding is when a dog loses dead or damaged fur to make room for new fur. Shedding is essential to keep dogs’ coats and skin healthy, preventing the buildup of dirt, dead skin, and in-grown hairs.
Shedding levels don’t have a significant impact on adoption rates, though hypoallergenic dogs’ popularity has increased in the. A heavy shedder, the Labrador Retriever is still the most popular breed in the US, though hypoallergenic dogs like Goldendoodles and Poodles are consistent in the most popular breeds polls by kennel clubs and pet medical insurance companies.
A list of dog breeds based on shedding level are found below.
- Regularly Shedding Dog Breeds such as the Australian Cattle Dog, Flat-Coated Retriever, Kuvasz, Pug and the Pembroke Welsh Corgi.
- Infrequently Shedding Dog Breeds such as the Afghan Hound, Australian Terrier, Boston Terrier, Hamiltonstovare and the Lakeland Terrier
- Seasonally Shedding Dog Breeds such as the Borzoi, Bullmastiff, Golden Retriever, Gordon Setter and the Great Pyrenees
- Frequently Shedding Dog Breeds such as the Bernese Mountain Dog, Miniature American Shepherd, Czechoslovakian Vlcak, Dalmatian and the Beauceron
- Occasionally Shedding Dog Breeds such as the American Staffordshire Terrier, Azawakh, Boxer, Cane Corso and the Manchester Terrier
1. Regularly Shedding Dog Breeds
Regularly shedding dog breeds are dogs that shed moderately to heavily throughout the year and include the following breeds.
- Australian Cattle Dog: Australian Cattle Dogs are a regularly shedding dog breed. Australian Cattle Dogs have a bi-annual shedding season in the spring and fall where the dogs blow their coats in large quantities. Care for the Australian Cattle Dog’s coat includes baths once a month, brushing bi-weekly year-round, and daily brushing during shedding season with a slicker brush and undercoat rake.
- Flat-Coated Retriever: Flat-Coated Retrievers are regularly shedding dogs. Flat-Coated Retrievers shed daily and have bi-annual shedding seasons in the spring and fall. Care for Flat-Coated Retrievers’ coats consists of baths every 3 – 4 weeks, brushing the coat multiple times a week year-round, and daily brushing during shedding season with a slicker or bristle brush.
- Kuvasz: Kuvaszok are regularly shedding dogs. Kuvaszok shed daily year-round and shedding increases during the breed’s bi-annual shedding season in the spring and fall. Care for a Kuvasz’s coat includes bathing once a month, brushing 3 times weekly year-round, and daily brushing during shedding season with a pin brush.
- Pug: Pugs are a regularly shedding dog breed. Pugs shed moderately every day, which increases to profuse shedding during the spring and fall shedding seasons. Care for a Pug’s coat consists of bathing every 3 – 4 weeks, brushing every 2 – 3 days year-round, and daily brushing with a slicker brush during shedding season.
- Pembroke Welsh Corgi: Pembroke Welsh Corgis are a regularly shedding dog breed. Pembroke Welsh Corgis shed moderately each day. Shedding increases heavily in the spring and fall when the breed blows its coats. Care for the Pembroke Welsh Corgi’s coat includes monthly baths and daily brushing year-round and more frequent baths and daily brushing with a soft bristle brush during shedding season.
2. Infrequently Shedding Dog Breeds
Infrequently shedding dog breeds are dogs that lightly shed year-round and include the following dog breeds.
- Afghan Hound: Afghan Hounds are an infrequently shedding dog breed. Afghan Hounds shed lightly throughout the year and are considered hypoallergenic. Care for the Afghan Hound’s coat includes weekly baths and brushing with an oval pin brush every 3 – 4 days to keep the long coat in top condition.
- Australian Terrier: Australian Terriers are infrequently shedding dogs. Australian Terriers shed minimally year-round and are considered to be hypoallergenic. Care for the Australian Terrier’s coat includes brushing once a week with a bristle brush and baths every 2 – 3 months.
- Boston Terrier: Boston Terriers are an infrequently shedding dog breed. Boston terriers shed lightly year-round but are not hypoallergenic. Care for the Boston Terrier’s coat includes brushing once a week with a soft-bristled brush and baths once a month or as needed to keep the coat clean.
- Hamiltonstovare: Hamiltonstovares are infrequently shedding dogs. Hamiltonstovares shed lightly year-round but are not hypoallergenic. Care for a Hamiltonstovare’s coat consists of weekly brushing with a bristle brush and baths once every 4 – 6 weeks.
- Lakeland Terrier: Lakeland Terriers are infrequently shedding dogs. Lakeland Terriers shed lightly year-round and are classified as a hypoallergenic dog breed. Care for a Lakeland Terrier’s coat includes bi-weekly brushing with a slicker brush and baths every 1 – 2 months.
3. Seasonally Shedding Dog Breeds
Seasonally shedding dog breeds are dogs that mainly shed at certain times of the year and include the following breeds.
- Borzoi: Borzois are a seasonally shedding dog breed. Borzois shed lightly throughout the year and shed massively during spring and fall shedding seasons. Care for a Borzoi’s coat includes bi-weekly brushing with an oval pin brush, daily during shedding season, and baths once a month or when needed to reduce shedding.
- Bullmastiff: Bullmastiffs are seasonally shedding dogs. Bullmastiffs shed lightly to moderately year-round. Shedding increases as they blow their coats in the spring and fall. Care for the Bullmastiff’s coat consists of brushing with a bristle brush weekly throughout the year, daily during shedding season, and baths every 2 – 3 months or more frequently during the shedding season.
- Golden Retriever: The Golden Retriever is a seasonally shedding dog breed. Golden Retrievers shed lightly year-round. During shedding season, Golden Retrievers blow their coats and shed large quantities of fur. Care for the Golden Retriever’s coat includes brushing with a pin brush before and after baths every 1 – 2 months, daily during shedding season, and once a week throughout the year.
- Gordon Setter: Gordon Setters are seasonally shedding dogs. Gordon Setters shed lightly to moderately throughout the year with above-average shedding during the spring and fall shedding seasons. Care for Gordon Setters’ coats consists of bi-weekly brushing with a metal rake and bristle brush, daily brushing during shedding season, and bathing every 4 – 6 weeks or more frequently during shedding season.
- Great Pyrenees: The Great Pyrenees is a seasonally shedding dog breed. Great Pyrenees shed moderately year-round which increases to very heavy shedding during shedding season. Care for Great Pyrenees’ coats includes bi-weekly brushing with a slicker brush throughout the year, daily brushing during shedding season, and baths every 2 – 4 weeks to keep the coat healthy.
4. Frequently Shedding Dog Breeds
Frequently shedding dog breeds are dogs that shed moderately year-round and include the following dog breeds.
- Bernese Mountain Dog: Bernese Mountain dogs are frequently shedding dogs. Bernese Mountain Dogs shed moderately throughout the year. Shedding increases to heavy shedding during the spring and fall. Care for the Bernese Mountain Dog’s coat includes weekly brushing with a double-sided pin brush year-round, daily brushing during shedding season, and baths every 2 – 3 months.
- Miniature American Shepherd: The Miniature American Shepherd is a frequently shedding dog breed. Miniature American Shepherds shed moderately throughout the year and heavily during shedding season. Care for the Miniature American Shepherd dog’s coat consists of brushing with a slicker and pin brush 2 – 3 times per week, daily during shedding season, and baths every month.
- Czechoslovakian Vlcak: Czechoslovakian Vlcaks are frequently shedding dogs. Czechoslovakian Vlcaks shed moderately year-round and heavily during the spring and fall shedding seasons. Care for the Czechoslovakian Vlcak’s coat includes weekly brushing with a slicker brush year-round, daily brushing during shedding season, and baths every 2 – 3 months.
- Dalmatian: The Dalmatian is a frequently shedding dog breed. Dalmatians shed heavily year-round with increased amounts of shed fur during the spring and fall. Care for a Dalmatian’s coat includes brushing with a bristle brush 3 – 4 times per week throughout the year, daily brushing during shedding season, and baths every 2 – 4 weeks.
- Beauceron: Beaucerons are frequently shedding dogs. Beaucerons shed moderately throughout the year and heavily during the spring and fall shedding seasons. Care for the Beauceron’s coat consists of brushing with a pin and bristle brush or slicker brush once a week, daily brushing during shedding season, and baths every 2 months.
5. Occasionally Shedding Dog Breeds
Occasionally shedding dog breeds are dogs that shed mildly all year and include the following breeds.
- American Staffordshire Terrier: American Staffordshire Terriers are occasionally shedding dogs. American Staffordshire Terriers shed mildly year-round. Care for the American Staffordshire Terrier’s coat includes brushing with a soft bristle brush once a week and baths every 3 months or as needed to keep the coat clean.
- Azawakh: The Azawakh is an occasionally shedding dog breed. Azawakhs shed lightly throughout the year. Care for an Azawakh’s coat consists of weekly brushing with a soft bristle brush and baths every 3 months or so.
- Boxer: Boxers are occasionally shedding dogs. Boxers shed minimally throughout the year. Care for a Boxer’s coat includes brushing with a rubber curry brush once a week and baths every 2 – 3 months or as needed.
- Cane Corso: The Cane Corso is an occasionally shedding dog breed. Cane Corsos shed mildly year-round. Care for a Cane Corso’s coat includes brushing with a rubber curry brush once a week and baths once every 2 months or as needed to keep the coat clean.
- Manchester Terrier: Manchester Terriers are occasionally shedding dogs. Manchester Terriers shed mildly throughout the year. Care for a Manchester Terrier’s coat consists of weekly brushing with a rubber bristle brush and monthly baths.
How to Understand a Dog’s Breed
To understand a dog’s breed you need to consider the size, coat characteristics, temperament, health, and original purpose of the dog. All the variety of dogs are defined by a set of characteristics to consider a specific breed. These characteristics are “consistent and predictable” for all the dog kinds of breeds, according to the Institute of Canine Biology, and result in dogs that have little variation from their ancestors. There are 200 recognized AKC dog breeds and more than 340 dog breeds recognized around the world by various dog registries like the United Kennel Club (UKC).
There are standards that must be met from a breeder’s perspective. Breeders of purebred dogs define their breed by the dog’s appearance, health, and temperament in accordance with previous dogs of the lineage.
To understand a dog’s breed and kind, there are 5 steps.
- Measuring and comparing the size of the dog.
- Assessing coat pattern, coat length, coat texture, and coat color of the dog.
- Comparing the temperament of the dog.
- The health of the dog.
- The original purpose or use of the dog.
1. Measuring and Comparing the Size of the Dog.
All dog breeds have a collective size specific to those types of dogs. The first step in determining a dog species is by the dog’s build. A breed of dogs that is built to be short and stocky, like French Bulldogs, is not purebred if the dog is lean with long legs.
2. Assessing the Coat Pattern, Length, Texture, and Color
Different breeds of dogs have various coats that set them apart from other dog breeds. Dog breeds are defined by their coat characteristics. Coat characteristics include coat color, coat pattern, and coat length. Coat pattern and color are the most recognizable traits in dogs like Dalmatians. Dalmatians have short, white coats with black or liver-brown spots while other colors and patterns within this breed are rare.
3. Comparing the Temperament of the Dog
Temperament is another trait that defines dog races or breed. Dogs are bred with temperament traits with little variation among litters. Dogs that are bred to be loyal family dogs, like the Golden Retriever, have a gentle, obedient temperament suitable for owners of all ages. A family dog that is aggressive or untrusting is abnormal for this dog type.
4. Common Health Problems of the Dog
Pedigree dog breeds are bred for health and performance. Purebred dog breeds have health standards specific to their breed’s health issues. Health problems, such as hip dysplasia in German Shepherds, are described as “normal” or “abnormal” compared to the breed standard. Having a German shepherd, with health issues such as cherry eye would be abnormal since cherry eye is commonly seen in Boston Terriers.
5. Original Purpose and Use
All dog breeds were originally bred for a purpose. Purposes included hunting, vermin killing, livestock protection, and companionship. While the purpose of killing rats in dogs like Rat Terriers is not as common today, these deep-seated genetic selections are still prevalent in different types of pet dogs. Rat Terriers are still a wiry breed with high prey drives for small mammals.
What is the History of Dog Breeds?
The history of dog breeds began at least 15,000 years ago. Dogs are descendants of wolves. Humans and wolves began the domestication process at least 15,000 years ago, but possibly even longer. Researchers aren’t certain of the exact location of where dogs originated, but they believe it was near or in Eastern Eurasia. Ancient wolf genomes were tested on modern dog DNA, finding that wolves from the Eastern Asia region closely resemble the genomes of other locations.
Some scientists believe that domestication took place in several locations around the world, as evident by genetic analyses of modern dogs pointing to places like East Asia, the Middle East, Western Europe, and more. This mass domestication all seemed to happen relatively near the same time, making it difficult to distinguish a true origin point geographically. Dog domestication is thought to have begun with humans providing shelter and protection to wolves, as the wolves helped humans gather food and hunt.
Selective breeding dates back to 6,000 BC, with the Basenji being the oldest breed of dog. Throughout history, mankind has continued to breed dogs for hunting, protection, work, and herding.
According to the World Dog Federation, an international federation for the protection of dog breeds, there are currently 406 different kinds of dog breeds in the world today. However, the AKC is much stricter in its rules for determining dog breeds and recognizes 200 different breeds of dogs.
What is the Oldest Dog Species?
The oldest dog species is the gray wolf, from which all domesticated dogs were bred. Dogs have been around as far back as 33,019 years ago. The morphological characteristics of a Siberian Pleistocene wolf skeleton found 33,019 years ago were studied by Gregory Hodgins, Ovodov, Crockford et al. from the University of Arizona . Through selective breeding, gray wolves transformed into the domesticated variety of dogs we know today.
Research suggests that the oldest human-created dog breed is the Basenji. Basenji’s origins date back to 6,000 BC (8,203 years ago), originating in the continent of Africa. Explorers discovered the Basenji was a popular dog among the Pygmies, one of the oldest groups of people in Africa.
The Basenji is thought to have originated in the Congo and was primarily used for hunting. Researchers believe that their hunting skills are what allowed the Basenji to survive for so long. If a tribe or village collapsed, the Basenjis were able to use their excellent hunting skills to continue surviving without the aid of people.
Basenjis, sit at the base of the dog family tree, according to a study published in BMC Genomics. Basenji’s lineage traces back to ancient Egypt and the Congo. In Egypt, the Basenji was a pariah dog, while in the Congo the breed was primarily used for hunting.
Recently, researchers found the remains of a 9,524 year old dog named Zhokhov that has genetic similarities and was found to be most similar to 3 different dog species the Greenland sled dog, the Alaskan Malamute and Siberian husky. Although there are similarities, the Basenji is the oldest single known dog species and breed.
Another of the oldest dog breeds is the Saluki. According to archaeological evidence, this breed first appeared in ancient Egypt around 5,000 years ago. Salukis are known for their feathered ears, tails, legs, and slender head.
The Saluki was originally bred for sport, to hunt prey over a long period of time. Salukis can reach speeds north of 45 miles per hour, and often hunt gazelles. To ensure that the dog was protected from injuries and to help condition them, tribesmen applied henna or nut oil to their feet.
Egyptian nobles considered the Saluki to be an honorable companion and were sometimes mummified, similar to the Pharaohs of ancient Egypt. Throughout the upper Nile in Egypt, archeologists discovered several tombs containing the ancient dog breed.
How to Find the Right Dog Breed
How to find the right dog breed depends on factors such as feeding, trainability, energy level, grooming needs, home and yard size, family size or children in the home, and barking level. Dog owners must evaluate their lifestyles, needs, and wants before choosing a breed. For example, owners who want a family companion that doesn’t require much upkeep benefit from small or medium dogs with short, infrequently shedding coats and little exercise requirements, such as a French Bulldog.
Searching for the right dog breed for adoption is also challenging. Dogs coming from a shelter can be more challenging behaviorally than a dog received from a reputable breeder. Over 20% of dogs in a shelter come from previous adoptions.
Finding the right dog breed that suits an owner’s lifestyle is important. A dog that doesn’t fit into an owner’s lifestyle can put stress on the owner and lead to rehoming or shelter surrender. A poor owner-dog match could put stress on the dog that is not getting its needs—like exercise or grooming—met. Working with a responsible breeder or reputable shelter, according to the Humane Society of the United States, can help owner’s connect with the right dog for them.
The amount of care needed for a dog and the dog’s temperament, personality and nature are more important characteristics to consider than physical attributes such as a dog’s appearance. Finding the right dog breed isn’t about finding the cutest dog. Finding the right dog breed is about finding a dog that suits the owner’s lifestyle and budget. 3.1 million dogs are surrendered to shelters annually in the United States because the dogs don’t suit the owner’s lifestyle, according to the ASPCA. Of dogs that are adopted, 7 – 20% are returned to the shelter for not meeting the adopter’s expectations, according to the Humane Society. Finding dogs that fit certain lifestyles prevents shelter surrenders and returns.
What Are the Best Dog Breeds for Families?
A list of the best dog breeds for families is found below.
- Golden Retriever: Golden Retrievers have traits that make them suitable for families, including the breed’s intelligence and trainability, adaptability to the family and playful energy, and friendliness towards other pets, children, and strangers. Grooming needs for the Golden Retriever are moderate during shedding season.
- Labrador Retriever: Labrador Retrievers are the most popular dogs for families in the US. Labrador Retrievers are great for families from all walks of life thanks to the breed’s intelligence, playful energy, versatility, patience, and friendliness towards animals, children, and strangers. Grooming needs for the Labrador Retriever are moderate year-round.
- Beagle: Beagles are good for families based on the breed’s short, manageable coat, small size, trainability, and friendliness. Beagles are gentle with children, accepting of other dogs, and playful. Grooming needs are light making the Beagle an ideal choice for busy families.
- French Bulldog: French Bulldogs are ideal for all types of families but especially for city-dwellers due to the breed’s small size, adaptability, and low exercise requirements. French Bulldogs are trainable, easygoing, playful, and loving towards children and other pets. Grooming needs for the French Bulldog are light year-round.
- Pug: Pugs are good for families in the city or country and adaptable to most lifestyles. Pugs are even-tempered, and affectionate making the breed a lover of children and adults alike. Pugs are trainable, playful, and get along well with other dogs. Grooming needs for the Pug are moderate as Pugs shed daily.
What Are the Best Dog Breeds for Couples?
A list of the best dog breeds for couples is found below.
- Boxer: Boxers are good for couples thanks to the breed’s loving, tolerant, and adaptable personalities. Boxers are energetic, trainable, and up for any adventure a couple might take them on. Grooming is a breeze with the short-haired boxer.
- Boston Terrier: Boston Terriers are adaptable to various living situations, playful, intelligent, trainable, and eager to please. Boston Terriers are affectionate, friendly, and enjoy company but don’t mind spending some parts of the day alone. Boston Terriers are short-haired so grooming is minimal for busy couples.
- Poodle: Miniature and Toy Poodles are compact in size making the breed suitable for couples living in a range of environments. Poodles are hypoallergenic and low-shedding, making this breed ideal for couples with allergies or those who don’t want to clean up shed fur often. Poodles are loving, intelligent, and eager to please.
- Bulldog: Bulldogs are adaptable to city and country life, are friendly, trainable, have low grooming needs, and don’t require much exercise, making this breed a good choice for homebody couples.
- Pumi: Pumis are affectionate, lively, and energetic making the breed great for active or social couples. Pumis are low-shedding so couples who don’t have the time for daily grooming may benefit from this breed.
What Are the Best Dog Breeds for Adoption?
A list of the best dog breeds for adoption is found below.
- Labrador Retriever: Labrador Retrievers are one of the best dog breeds for adoption and are commonly seen in shelters due to the breed’s popularity. Labrador Retrievers are energetic and best for owners with an active lifestyle or those with a large yard to run around in. Labs are friendly to everyone they meet, are eager to please, and don’t require much grooming.
- Beagle: Beagles are one of the best dogs for adoption and one of the most surrendered breeds due to overbreeding. Beagles are playful and friendly all around, making this breed a good choice for sociable adopters with families. Beagles are small and adaptable to different living situations and require minimal grooming.
- Dachshund: Dachshunds are small, making the breed ideal for apartment living and adoption. Dachshunds are playful and affectionate, but ideal for only a single owner rather than a family as they are often one-person dogs.
- Chihuahua: Chihuahuas are best suited for individual adopters or homes without small children as they are sometimes nippy. On the bright side, Chihuahuas are compact and adaptable to various living situations, affectionate towards their favorite person, and low-maintenance in terms of cost and grooming.
German Shepherd: German Shepherds are highly intelligent and easy to train. German Shepherds are affectionate and tolerant of children and other dogs making the breed a good choice for families. The German Shepherd is a larger dog, so space is needed but they are protective of their family making the breed ideal for adopters wanting a loving dog while having security as well.
