Archives: Breeds

Often described as “a clown in the cloak of a philosopher,” the French Bulldog originated as and continues to be used as a companion dog. The breed is small and muscular with a heavy bone structure, a smooth coat, a short face, and trademark “bat” ears. Prized for their affectionate natures and even dispositions, they…

Low-set, strong, and sturdily built, the Pembroke Welsh Corgi gives an impression of substance in a small space. He is one of the most agreeable small house dogs, as well as an avid competitor in many dog sports, including conformation, herding, and obedience. The Pembroke Corgi is a separate breed from the Cardigan Corgi, possessing…

The Papillon is a small, friendly, elegant toy dog with a fine-boned structure. He is light and dainty, yet still lively, and is distinguished from other breeds by his beautiful, butterfly-like ears. They are known to be happy and alert little dogs that are not shy or aggressive. The breed must be either parti-color or…

Graceful, alert, and swift-moving with a saucy expression, the Chihuahua is highly intelligent and should not be underestimated even though small in size. The breed can be any color: solid, marked, or splashed, and the coat may be long or short. These sassy little dogs are well known as “purse dogs” like the famous Bruiser…

Exhibited in the US since the 1880s, the Cocker Spaniel remains one of the most popular breeds according to AKC registration statistics. The Cocker has a sturdy, compact body and a silky, flat, or wavy coat. He is a merry, well-balanced dog that is capable of considerable speed and great endurance. Cocker Spaniels can be…

Best known as “Toto” from the Wizard of Oz, the Cairn Terrier is a small, hardy working terrier. Originally bred to aid Scottish farmers in ridding their properties of pests, Cairns today use their tenacity to excel in obedience, agility, terrier, and tracking trials. Alert and active, this breed possesses a harsh, weather-resistant outer coat…

Truly an “All-American” dog, the Boston Terrier is a lively and highly intelligent breed with an excellent disposition. Conveying an impression of determination, strength, and activity, he is short-headed and compactly built and must be black, brindle, or seal with white markings. History Following the Civil War, the Boston Terrier breed was developed in the…

A sturdy hunting dog, the Beagle should look like a foxhound in miniature. His hunting ability, combined with a merry personality, has made the Beagle one of the most popular dogs in the United States according to AKC Registration Statistics. The most famous Beagle of all is Snoopy from the comic strip “Peanuts.” Today’s Beagle…

The Australian Terrier is small and sturdy with a blue and tan, sandy, or red coat that is harsh in texture. They have a keen and alert expression and confident spirit. They are versatile in their work and living situations, making suitable companions in most environments. History The Australian Terrier was developed to assist its…

Animated, adaptable and agile, the Australian Shepherd lives for his job, which still involves herding livestock and working as an all-purpose farm and ranch dog. He needs a lot of activity and a sense of purpose to be truly content. Today, due to the breed’s intelligence and versatility, Aussies also excel in AKC events such…