Greater Swiss Mountain Dog

This breed is the largest and oldest of the four Swiss mountain dogs. He has a study and robust appearance. Confident, loyal, and huge, the Greater Swiss Mountain Dog is a dog like no other. He's powerful, heavy-boned, and strong. This helped him pull heavy carts. The Greater Swiss Mountain Dog also has a double-layered coat with a rich rust color and white colored markings in specific parts of the body. The rest is black.

The Greater Swiss Mountain Dog's ancestors were molossers brought to Switzerland by Romans. He was developed from Mastiffs and Rottweilers, and other breeds. It was bred for all-purpose farm jobs, such as herding, guarding, and pulling carts. The breed's history doesn't end here. Later on, the breed's numbers started to decrease. The Greater Swiss Mountain Dog's services were no longer needed. Their jobs were replaced by either other animals or dog breeds, or machines. Then, a dog expert named Dr. Albert Heim convinced people to try and save the breed. It worked, and now, the breed is recognised by the AKC, which first happened in 1995. The Greater Swiss Mountain Dog Club of America was first founded in 1968.

Due to the breed's large size, he's prone to some health issues like bloat. He's also susceptible to eye problems, hip and elbow dysplasia, and cancer. The breed is best in colder climates, for if you over-exercise one in hot temperatures, he may get a Heat Stroke. Give him daily exercise, like a daily walk or romp in a yard. Also ensure you have enough space for one; a Greater Swiss Mountain Dog takes up a lot of space. Due to the double coat, he sheds twice annually, and in other occasions. Brush it regularly to keep the coat and skin healthy. Since these dogs are eager to please, training can be fun. He can be a good family pet, but early socialization is a must. Introduce to your Greater Swiss Mountain Dog the people that are not bad, and people that are, as he can be protective of his family. But due to this, they make great watchdogs.

If you give him love he'll devote himself to you and your family. You'll be great friends for a long time!

Bernese Mountain Dog

The Bernese Mountain Dog is one out of four Swiss mountain dogs. Second only to that Greater Swiss Mountain Dog, the Bernese Mountain Dog is one of the biggest out of the four Swiss Mountain Dogs.

This dog has a weather-resistant and double-layered coat. It's always jet black with white markings on the chest, muzzle, belly, tail, and in the middle of the face. There are also russet markings on the ankles, cheeks, and even on top of the eyes. Like Doberman Pinschers, Rottweilers, and other breeds, the russet markings on top of the eyes resemble eyebrows.

The Bernese Mountain Dog descended from Mastiffs. Some were taken to Switzerland over two-thousand years ago. They were bred with local farm dogs to create this breed. It was originally used to pull carts and herd cattle, mainly in the town of Berne. They even do this today. However, remember to always make sure that if your Bernese Mountain Dog pulls carts, he doesn't pull carts that are too heavy. The breed first arrived in America in around 1925. The breed was officially recognised by the AKC in 1937.

The breed is a great family pet. He's loyal, affectionate, and even trustworthy. He may be aloof around strangers, but is never shy or aggressive. Because of his sheer size, make sure that the Bernese Mountain Dog is monitored around small children, as he may accidentally knock them down. The Bernese Mountain Dog is large, so make sure you have enough space for him. Give him daily exercise in a large yard or with daily walks. This breed also needs to be with a family that understands that they don't live that long. With an average lifespan of 7-8 years, the breed has many health issues, including bloat, cancer, hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, skin and coat problems, and eye diseases. However, some have been known to live a decade and longer. The Bernese Mountain Dog is loyal and eager to please, so training is easy. But keep in mind that the breed has a double coat, so the breed will shed. Brush it regularly and give it occasional baths.

When you meet the Bernese Mountain Dog, you'll have a hard time resisting this friendly dog.

Lhasa Apso

The Lhasa Apso is an attractive, amazing, long-haired breed. This breed looks a lot like another dog we all know as the Shih Tzu. How do you tell the difference? Well, Lhasa Apsos are alightly larger than Shih Tzus are, and throughout history, the Lhasa Apso came before the Shih Tzu. In fact, when the Lhasa Apso is crossed with the Pekingese, you get a Shih Tzu.

This breed has a long double coat that protects it from harsh climates such as the ones in Tibet, where the breed originated. The Lhasa Apso has a short muzzle, but isn't brachycephalic. Brachycephalic breeds are dogs with nearly flat faces, such as Pekingese, English Bulldogs, Pugs, and French Bulldogs. The tail is carried over the back and is well feathered.

Lhasa Apsos can trace their origins back to Tibet. It was used to warn their owners of intruders if they could get past the Tibetan Mastiffs that were usually outside estates. They would only give a warning bark to alert their masters, though. The breed was even known as "Abso Seng Kyi", meaning "bark sentinel lion dog". Traders also used them for the same purpose, but to guard goods.

The breed is generally healthy, but can suffer some eye problems, but they are easy to take care of and less serious than other health issues. Kidney problems have also been found in the breed. They can be stubborn at times, so early training is the best way to go for this pooch. The breed is high maintenance when it comes to grooming. However, you can keep it in a puppy cut to make grooming more minimal, but you'll be spending lots of time grooming a Lhasa Apso if you're using one for show. Also brush it regularly to prevent matting and tangling in the coat. Also bathe it once every week or so. The Lhasa Apso may not be good in exteme heat. It may have a hard time breathing; the breed has a face flatter than most others. Always keep it in air conditioning in hot climates. Exercising the breed isn't too bad. A daily walk or romp in the yard will do. In fact, if you exercise it, he can be a good apartment dog. It can be good in families, but can be dominant with other pets about space at times.

In general, always remember that the Lhasa Apso is a great dog breed and that once you get a Lhasa Apso, you'll never regret doing it.

Cardigan Welsh Corgi

There are two types of Welsh Corgis. This is a Cardigan Welsh Corgi. His cousin, the Pembroke Welsh Corgi, is more popular. The two breeds look very similar, so how do you tell the difference? Well, the Cardigan Welsh Corgi has full tail, not a short and stubby one that the Pembroke Welsh Corgi has. Cardigans also have slightly longer and bigger bodies than Pembrokes. Also, Cardigans usually have a brindle coat with white markings on the paws, chest, face, muzzle, tail, and belly. They still come in other coat colors, though.

The Cardigan Welsh Corgi comes from Cardiganshire, Wales. He's related to the Dachshund, and you might be able tell by his long body. They were kept as farm dogs; they would typically drive, guard, and herd cattle by nipping at their heels. All the way until 1934, Britain recognized the Cardigan and Pembroke as one breed. Around 1931 the breed was first introduced to America. The breed was admitted for AKC registration in 1935.

The dog has some health issues, like hip dysplasia, Progressive Retinal Atrophy, autoimmune diseases, and cataracts. And because it has a long body, beware of spinal disc problems. Grooming the breed isn't too hard. This is because of his short coat, obviously. The hair between the toes need to be trimmed occasionally. This dog is a breed that needs daily exercise. It also excels at herding, agility, and show. And if trained properly, they can even be Therapy dogs. Training this breed is easy because he's always eager to please. He's intelligent and affectionate, and is a good family dog, but try to herd small children or other pets.

He may look small, but he has a big heart.

West Highland White Terrier

West Highland White Terriers really now how to make people smile, especially with that cute look on their faces. The West Highland White Terrier is known as the Westie for short.

This Terrier comes from Scotland, and is related to Skye Terriers, Cairn Terriers, Dandie Dinmont Terriers, and Scottish Terriers, too. It was bred to go underground to find small vermin for hunters. It was bred to dig underground in holes, and in fact, the "Terra" in "Terrier" means "earth". Legend says that a hunter named Colonel Edward Donald Malcom kept many terriers for hunting. However, one of the reddish-colored terriers was shot, being mistaken for a fox.

So, he bred a dog to have a white coat so he wouldn't be mistaken for a fox. This coat repels and sheds dirt, and is also double-layered. Some Westies also got stuck in holes while looking for small game underground. Westie owners would then have to dig them out. So many got stuck, that they bred for a Westie with a strong tail. This way, they could be pulled out of the hole by being grabbed on the tail. It doesn't hurt them at all, and if you tried to grab a Westie by the tail and lift it up, it wouldn't hurt the Westie at all. The breed gained AKC recognition in 1908.

Grooming this breed is sometimes demanding. It needs a weekly brushing, and will be more demanding if you want to use a West Highland White Terrier for show. The breed has health issues, such as heart disease, hip dysplasia, juvenile cataracts, and allergy and lung problems. He can live up to about 14 years on average. The breed's double-layered coat makes it good for cold climates; and they are sensitive to extreme heat. It needs some time to romp in an enclosed yard to release that Terrier energy. It could be an apartment dog as long as you exercise it. Because it is so independent at times, training could be a challenge. Westies can be good family dogs for those who are looking for a cute and feisty companion.

However, if you devote yourself to your Westie, he will devote himself to you.

Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever

Standing at only 17-21 inches, the Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever, or the Toller for short, is the smallest retriever. He may be small, but he had to do a big job when he was developed.

In the 19th century, the Toller was bred to lure, toll, and retrieve waterfowl, usually ducks and geese. The breed was bred in Nova Scotia, Canada. He was welcome into the Canadian Kennel Club in 1945, and in the 1960's, they were first introduced to the US.

The breed has heavily feathered tail that would help to lure ducks to shore, and then the dog's owners could shoot it once lured into gun range. Another thing that helped the breed do his job is his coat. The Toller was also used to retrieve ducks from icy waters, so the breed has a double coat medium in length that's water-resistant. It comes in any shade of red with white markings on the chest, muzzle, tail, and belly. He also has well arched toes with thick pads. The breed should always have tight scissors bite.

His coat needs regular brushing and grooming. If you put the breed on show, remember that his coat needs to have a natural appearance, not a barbered one. Breeders have been trying to breed out health issues of the breed. But be aware of hip dysplasia, eye problems, autoimmune deficiency, hypothyroidism, and epilepsy. The Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever is a breed is best when given a job, even if he isn't told too. So if you live near a lake, and you Toller comes back with a duck in its mouth, don't be surprised; this instinct hasn't been bred out of the breed. As a result, the breed does best with more active families.

The Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever is a breed of fun and work. He could be a great dog for you if you give him attention. It'll be worth it for sure.

Great Pyrenees

The Great Pyrenees is a breed like no other. He can be protective of his family, loving, and an amazing pet. Aside from being a great pooch to have in your family, the Great Pyrenees has traits that will help you identify him. This isn't hard either. First off, he has dark brown eyes, with rims that match the color of the lips and nose. Another thing you'll notice about a Great Pyrenees is his coat. It's double-layered and weather resistant with a dense and woolly undercoat, and a flat and thick top coat. But the thing that is most recognizable about this breed is his size. This breed is certainly a massive breed, so if you have a small house or no way to exercise this breed, the Great Pyrenees is not for you.

The Great Pyrenees has descended from molossian hounds that Romans brought to Spain. Here, the breed was used to protect herds of sheep from predators, or they were used as guard dogs. Because the Great Pyrenees' physical characteristics were so important to help the breed be a great guarding and protecting dog, the Great Pyrenees hasn't changed much throughout history. This dog was introduced to the US in 1824. The AKC welcomed the breed in 1933.

This is a lovely dog to have, and are good for protecting herds of sheep, so it wouldn't be a bad idea to have it on a farm. But if he isn't in a farm, be sure he can get lots of daily exercise in a large yard, or maybe in an open field, as long as you can trust your Great Pyrenees off-leash. The breed has a short life span like many other big dogs. He is prone to hip dysplasia, bloating, cancer, and ear infections. The breed is also highly sensitive to anesthetics, and be sure to pay attention to in between his toes. Fungus can sometimes grow there. Grooming the breed can be a challenge. He needs to bathed regularly, and also a weekly brushing. The Great Pyrenees will also shed a lot in shedding season. The breed is trainable, but always use positive training methods. Don't let him become bored or not have much attention, otherwise, things can get out of hand. This breed can be a good family pet, but because of his large size, be sure to monitor small children, and don't forget about the guarding instincts in the breed; early socialization is a must.

Otherwise, the Great Pyrenees will become an amazing companion that you'll love. And the Great Pyrenees will certainly love you and the entire family back.

Komondor

The Komondor is breed that is probably best known for its coat. The coat is made up of cords which form naturally. And did you know that if you cut off all of its cords, all of them would weigh a total of up to 15 pounds? The breed's coat is white because it would help it blend in with the flocks of sheep and cattle that it would protect from the weather and predators. And the plural for Komondor is Komondorok.

This breed originated in Hungary where he is known as the "King of Working Dogs". This breed wasn't bred to herd cattle, but to protect cattle without any demands or questions. Besides them being workers among cattle, the Komondor's protective instincts made him a police dog. The breed was introduced to North America in 1930's. However, it wasn't until about over 60 years later that the breed was recognized by the American Kennel Club.

This is a somewhat hardy breed, but you need to watch out for things like juvenile cataracts, hip dysplasia, bloating, and entropion. Grooming the breed is no easy task. Some owners will cut the coat, but if you want to use the breed for show, you have to dedicate lots of time towards grooming. It needs to be brushed on a regular basis. You may also need to hand-strip the cords to prevent them from matting. The breed could be a good family dog, but he has those guarding instincts, so early socialization is a must. You also need to start training a Komondor at a young age. He is sensitive to his owners commands, however, you should always use positive training methods. Give it a treat if it does something right. If you want the breed perfect for city living, keep looking, because he needs daily exercise in a large yard. You should also try to see if you can give him a job, such as the one he was bred for.

If you can tend to a Komondor's needs, then the Komondor will be a great match for you!

Dalmatian

The Dalmatian is known for all of those spots on him. Some here, some there, spots everywhere. These breeds may have lots of spots, but that's only when they mature. They are born without these spots, and they develop as they mature. They range in size of a dime to a half dollar. Also, there aren't as many spots on the head, legs, and tail than on the body.

They aren't just known for their spots. They were featured in the movie "One-Hundred and One Dalmatians". Amongst children, they are known as firehouse dogs. Of course, some of them are in reality, but not as often as they are in cartoons and children's books.

There is no proof that this breed has originated in Dalmatia, but it's likely. It's a very old dog breed, and some have been found depicted on walls and tombs in Egypt. Back in the old days, they were bred to walk alongside horse chariots that were like old firetrucks. The Dalmatians would clear the crowd so they wouldn't be in the way of the chariot. In the USA, they were used to locate fires and and victims of the fire.

Grooming the breed's short coat shouldn't be hard, but it needs a weekly brushing to remove dead hairs. As for training them, you should start while your Dalmatian is a puppy. Otherwise, they can be a little stubborn and independent. This breed can have some health issues, such as skin disorders, epilepsy, and hip dysplasia. The breed is best with older children and active families, because the breed needs daily exercise in an enclosed yard, because they have been known to run away, and even jump and climb fences, so a tall fence is best for this breed.

But overall, the Dalmatian is a great spotted friend that will give you love, affection, and laughs that you'll always remember!

Alaskan Malamute

Is this a Husky or an Alaskan Malamute? It's an Alaskan Malamute. But it's hard to tell the difference. So how do you tell the difference? They look like they're the exact same size and they have the exact same coat colors. Well, the Alaskan Malamute is a bit larger and heavier than the Siberian Husky.

This breed pulls supplies on sleds as a pack. They always get along with each other. It's one trait that was a must in the breed to have it pull sleds with other dogs. They have paws with claws that stick out of the breed. The claws dig into the ice; this trait is useful because if the Alaskan Malamute didn't have it, he would be slipping and tripping on icy terrain. He has a double layered coat that is medium in length and really keeps him warm in cold conditions. In fact, Malamutes can survive in temperatures of over 50 degrees below zero! Now that's sheer cold! He also has a black nose to help him prevent sunburns from the intense ultraviolet rays that reflect off the ice.

This breed's origins can be traced back to Alaska where they were bred to pull sleds with cargo on them. Later, they were recognized by AKC in 1935.

Is the Alaskan Malamute a healthy dog breed? Well considering they have a wide gene pool, yes, but they are susceptible to cataracts, hip dysplasia, hypothyroidism, and bloating. Expect high grooming bills for this breed, as is coat is high maintenance. He will shed seasonally, and he will shed a lot. Clumps of that hair will get in every corner of the house. It's going to need a daily brushing. Alaskan Malamutes can be stubborn when it comes to training, so it's best to start early. Also, this breed needs daily exercise in a large, enclosed yard, as they have a tendency to run off. The breed is best in cold places, and in hot places, be very watchful of him, as he may feel uncomfortable in the heat. Always give them AC in hot climates. The Alaskan Malamute makes a good family pet, and gets along well with other dogs. However, they may need supervision around small children, and the children need to know he is not to be climbed all over.

If you dedicate yourself to an Alaskan Malamute, he will give you love and laughs for many years to come!

American Pit Bull Terrier

The American Pit Bull Terrier, or Pit Bull for short, is a very famous breed. Some have been known to be very loving and attached to their families. Or, there's the Pit Bull that is known for its aggression. Sometimes, there have been incidents where Pit Bulls seriously injure, or even kill people. In some places, the breed is even banned from To your surprise, these are the same dogs!

So what is it with Pit Bulls that can make them so mean and territorial? Well for one, they tend to be really protective of their families. But the main reason, is how a Pit Bull can have a terrible past. They have been abused by man in ways you don't want to think about. They then try to defend themselves because every human they see they will be scared of. But you can't blame them, it all depends on how we treat them.

The Pit Bull has 3 main traits. First off is his short coat, which is easy to groom, and comes in many coat colors, such as black and white, brindle, and tan and white to name only a few. They have a really big head, and the bigger a dog's head is, the more jaw power there is. They don't have the most powerful bite in the world of dogs, however. The Rottweiler has a stronger bite. But don't let that fool you into thinking they can't pack a powerful bite, because they can, and that's why it isn't the dog for everyone. They also have a muscular body, and are good at dog fighting, in which they were bred for.

The Pit Bull was mixed with the Bulldog, which back then, was bigger and more assertive than today's Bulldog, and certain Terriers, to create the Pit Bull. They were bred for the cruel sport of dog fighting, where they would have to maul other dogs. They would actually be put in pits and fight other dogs, and that's how the Pit Bull got the word "pit" in its name. It got the bull part of its name because it was mixed with the Bulldog. Today, dog fighting is now thankfully illegal.

If you want to rescue a Pit Bull from a rough and terrible past, here are some things to know. First off, he can make a good family dog, but training must start early; this isn't optional. Otherwise, Pit Bulls may recognize you as a friend even if has had a rough past. But you should always know what you're doing when it comes to training a Pit Bull. Grooming a Pit Bull is a walk in the park. However, be sure to brush them to remove dead hairs. They are hardy breeds that can live for up to 14 years on average, but are prone to heart disease, allergies, and hip dysplasia. You need to exercise the breed daily, but if they do get enough exercise, they could be an apartament dog.

So in general, if you're wanting to rescue a Pit Bull, do your homework. Otherwise, a Pit Bull could be your new best friend!

Border Collie

Labrador Retrievers are the seventh smartest dogs in the world. Doberman Pinschers are the fifth smartest, German Shepherds are the third smartest, and Poodles are the second smartest. So what is the smartest dog breed out there? It's the Border Collie! These dogs are so intelligent, that one Border Collie named Sweet Pea was trained to walk backwards up several steps of stairs with a full glass of water balanced on his muzzle. This record made it to the "Guinness Book of World Records." So this is just proof that the most amazing feature of this breed is his brain.

Aside from extreme intelligence, Border Collies have a coat that is double layered and weather resistant. There are many colors in the breed, but black and white is the most common.

Another trait about the Border Collie is his name. He got the word Border in his name because he was developed in the border country in between Scotland and England. Here, he was bred to be a herding and working dog, where he always had a job to do. The Border Collie quickly began to be known around the world, and was used to full advantage by people who needed a great herding dog. In 1995, the breed was officially in the AKC. Today, he's in the herding group.

The Border Collie is seriously not a breed for everyone. First off, this is NOT an apartment dog. This breed needs lots of daily, extensive, vigorous exercise in a large yard with room to roam. It is also a breed that is best when given a job, such as herding. The breed is a great family dog at most times, but beware. If the breed's exercise requirements aren't met, he can become a huge ball of energy and rage. Also, he may nip at children, trying to herd them. So you need to train them out of this. Because of its sheer intelligence, they are relatively easy to train, but you really need to do your homework and research before considering getting a Border Collie. Just be sure you know what you're doing, and start at an early age. Grooming this breed is somewhat easy. A weekly brushing is a good method to keep the coat looking fabulous. Overall, the Border Collie is a healthy breed, but always remember that he is susceptible to health issues such as deafness, allergies, hip dysplasia, and epilepsy to name a few.

If you want an energetic and smart breed with good looks and an old dog that can always learn new tricks, the Borer Collie is your perfect match!

Old English Sheepdog

The Old English Sheepdog is like a giant teddy bear that came to life. Their coats are really soft and cuddly. Aside from being soft and plush-feeling, the Old English Sheepdog is a big dog with a rather short and compact body. The Old English Sheepdog also has a bobbed tail that is close to the body. This was like an emblem that showed it was a herding and working dog.

The breed was developed in the 19th century in England as a herding dog. Some say that the Bearded Collie was mixed with other working dogs to create the Old English Sheepdog. In 1904, the Old English Sheepdog Club of America was founded, and in 1905, the AKC recognized the breed.

The breed is a high maintenance pooch, so you really have to be up for it. Like it was mentioned, the Old English Sheepdog is a herding pooch. So apartment living is certainly not an option. If you have a farm, you can actually get an Old English Sheepdog to herd your cattle. This breed has a high energy level, and needs daily exercise in a large yard. This breed has a few health issues such as hip dysplasia, deafness, cataracts, eye disorders, and hypothyroidism. However, the health problems are the least of your concerns when compared to how much grooming this breed needs. Brush the coat a few times each week to prevent this long coat from matting and/or tangling. This breed is a very nice pooch and makes a great family pet. However, you may want to monitor small children. They need to understand that this dog isn't meant to be climbed all over on. Training this pooch is really easy, as they are happy and eager to please.

Overall, if you want a fun and loving breed with lots of character and spunk, the Old English Sheepdog could be the right breed for you!

Italian Greyhound

He's fast, he's small, he's an Italian Greyhound! This dog is fast. It can run almost 6 miles an hour faster than the average dog. That's 25 miles per hour! Watch out marathon runners!

Not only is this dog fast, but he behaves sort of like another domesticated animal- the cat! So what makes this breed so cat-like? Well for one, some are intolerant cold climates an rain. And some are even litter-box trained. They also enjoy sunbathing.

Despite their speedy reputation, the Italian Greyhound is more of a lapdog than a "running laps dog". For this reason, you may be surprised to find out that these guys like to sit around all day.

Despite his misleading name, the Italian Greyhound did not come from Italy. However, dogs resembling the Italian Greyhound have been found in arts from Mediterranean countries, including Italy. In the 16th century, the Italian Greyhound was imported throughout southern Europe. In Italy, the breed was dubbed the Italian Greyhound. One century later, the breed arrived in England. This was when the breeds popularity started to grow larger. The first one to be registered in the AKC made the breed recognized by the American Kennel Club.

The Italian Greyhound has some health issues including Progressive Retinal Atrophy, luxating patella, and seizures just to name a few. Also, the breed has a fragile body. You have to make sure to be careful with this fragile breed, especially when its bones are still developing. The Italian Greyhound may need a little exercise in an enclosed yard. If this dog runs away, you'll never catch him. This is why you'll need to train him at a very young age to not run away. Grooming this breed is a piece of cake due to his short coat, but because of this, he is highly sensitive to cold weather.

If you're looking for a fast, warm and loving companion dog, the Italian Greyhound could be the right breed for you.

Australian Shepherd

In the AKC, the Australian Shepherd is in the herding group. However, due to its high intelligence, the Australian Shepherd can do other jobs as well. Some are used as seeing-eye dogs, others are skilled search and rescue dogs. The breed is also used in agility.

The Australian Shepherd's coat is weather-resistant and medium in length, and comes in several colors. The two most common colors are red merle an blue merle. The one in this image is a blue merle. The breed is also known for its naturally bobbed tail. This was meant to be in the breed so cattle wouldn't step on its tail while being herded. In fact, many other herding breeds have this trait as well.

There many theories about this breed's origin. However, most say that the Australian Shepherd's relatives came from the Pyrenees Mountains, despite the dog's name. There they may have been bought to America by herders and their flocks of cattle. When this breed came to America, it was mixed with other herding and working dogs to create today's Australian Shepherd.

Although it is a fairly healthy breed, several health issues, including hip dysplasia, epilepsy, and eye problems. The breed is easy to train, as they are intelligent and eager to please. However, if you don't give them enough exercise, the breed may become a wrecking ball as one might say. This is why you need to give them vigorous daily exercise in a large yard. Grooming this breed isn't that complicated. Give them a weekly bruskhing to prevent matting and tangling.

But overall, nothing says amazing like an Australian Shepherd!

Catahoula Leopard Dog

What dog herds the toughest of cattle, has been in the Foundation Stock Service since 1996, and is named for the spots on its coat? It's the Catahoula Leopard Dog. He's large, short-haired and a great herding dog. In fact, it's what the dog is best at doing.

The first thing you'll notice about the Catahoula Leopard Dog is its coat. The coat is soft and dense. It comes in many colors and patterns, but they always have spots that remind you of a leopard; thus giving the breed the name Catahoula Leopard Dog. He also has different eye colors, including blue and brown. He has high stamina, and a well-muscled body.

The Catahoula Leopard Dog originated in North Central Louisiana, in the United States, near the Catahoula Lake. They were bred to work with cattle and wild boar, as they were bred by working oriented breeders.

The Catahoula Leopard Dog is definitely not for everyone. First off, they need lots of space. An hour of vigorous exercise is required. They are also really great herding dogs, as they can handle even the toughest of cattle. So rural environments such as farms are recommended. The breed can be a good family dog, but start training them early. If they're are not properly maintained, they will be a raging dog. They are happiest when they are given a job. It is also best to have this dog as a single pet. They may injure or even kill small animals that mess with them, especially ones of the same sex. You may also want to monitor the breed with young children. This is a breed that can become more aggressive as it ages. Only experienced dog owners should consider having a Catahoula Leopard Dog. It will do everything in its power to protect its space. The breed is overall a healthy dog, but is prone to hip dysplasia. The breed's short coat makes it easy to groom, but brush it every now and then to remove dead hairs.

If you can fulfill the Catahoula Leopard Dog's needs, it will certainly be your best friend!

Lucas Terrier

If you've never heard of this breed before, it's no surprise you haven't. This is the Lucas Terrier, a fairly rare breed in America. They have not been registered by the AKC, but in 2006, the Lucas Terrier Club of America was founded. The Lucas Terrier is a very friendly breed that can become very attached to its family. While he is very affectionate, the Lucas Terrier also has a very good looking coat, that is medium in length and weather-resistant. He has many other characteristics that make him look cute. Like some other Terriers such as the Airedale or Sealyham, he has "V" shaped ears. He also has a broad skill that is slightly curved in between those cute little ears.

The Lucas Terrier was bred by a man named Sir Jocelyn Lucas in 1889, hence the name Lucas Terrier. He was the second son of the third baron Lucas. Sir Jocelyn Lucas was very interested in dogs when he was young. In his 20's he bred many dog breeds, including Sealyham Terriers. He used them to capture small game. But then, he felt as if the Sealyham Terriers were getting too big to do the job he had in mind. So he mixed the Sealyham Terrier with the Norfolk Terrier, and the Lucas Terrier was born. Not only did he create the a dog perfect for his requirements, he created a very hardy breed.

There have been no reported health issues in this breed. The Lucas Terrier's average lifespan is 14-15 years. This breed's coat will require a weekly brushing, and you need to hand-strip the coat regularly to prevent it from matting. The Lucas Terrier also doesn't shed, so if you don't like breeds that shed lots of fur, this could be a great match for you. Lucas Terriers need minimal exercise. A daily walk or a little roaming in the backyard will be fine. The breed likes to please, an is easy to train. It is also a very good family pet, as it is affectionate and great with children. It could live in an apartment, but like it was mentioned earlier, give it exercise.

Overall, the Lucas Terrier is a great dog breed to have in the family. They enjoy being your #1 friend.

Whippet

Meet the Whippet. He's very fast dog. In fact, the Whippet is so fast, that it is the fastest domesticated animal of its own weight; the Whippet weighs anywhere between 25-40 pounds. It can run up to speeds up to 35 mph! In fact, like their larger cousin, the Greyhound, some people will race Whippets on tracks. In fact, the breed even got the nickname "Snap Dog," because would snap at what they thought were unusual dogs on the track. They did the same with small game as well. However in some places, this is illegal to do.

Its skull is long and lean, and it is almost twice as long as it is wide. Its teeth always meet in a scissors bite as well.

In England, during the 19th century breeders wanted a smaller version of the Greyhound, a more healthy and hardier dog than the Itallian Greyhound. They also wanted a dog capable of chasing and catching small game. What they did was mix the Greyhound with some Terriers, and the Whippet was born. America's first Whippets came when English Mill Operators brought some Whippets from England to America. The AKC recognized the Whippet in 1888, two years earlier than England's Kennel Club!

The Whippet can be kept in many environments, but in cold temperatures, keep the breed warm by putting a doggie-jacket on it. Also, you need to give this breed daily exercise in a large, secure yard, because if this dog escapes, you'll never catch up to them unless you're lucky. They have also been known to jump over fences, so you need a tall fence. If you want to train a Whippet, use positive training methods, like giving them treats when they do something right, but don't do things like a shock collar. A shock collar is not reccomended at all, even for all other dogs. Brush the Whippet regularly to remove dead hair. Though not the most common variety, there is a long-haired Whippet, that need weekly brushings. Also be sure to trim this pooch's nails. The nipping that was previously part of the Whippet, has been bred out of today's Whippet, so they are great family pets. However, they still have that instinct of chasing small animals, so it may not be best for families with cats, hamsters, ferrets, rabbitw, or any other small pets like rodents and such. The breed is healthy, just like it was bred to be, but they can have dental issues. The breed is also highly sensitive to anesthetics, so talk to your vet before surgery. The Whippet's average life span is 13-15 years.

If you want a dog that will be your best friend, look no further than the Whippet.

Siberian Husky

Dogs are bred for lots of things. Hunting, retrieving, guarding and even being companion dogs. But what is the Siberian Husky bred to do? The Siberian Husky was bred to be a sledding dog. In fact, they are perfectly designed for it. The Siberian Husky's coat is double-layered; the top coat being medium length with the fur, and the inner coat being soft and dense. It also had paws that are well designed for rough terrain.

The breed originated in Siberia, hence the name, and bred by the Chuckchi Tribe. The Chuckchi tribe needed a sledding dog with high stamina. Whatever they did to develop the Siberian Husky, the effort paid off, and the Siberian Husky was born. Its double-layered coat helped it to keep warm in the sheer cold. This dog also has high endurance, just what the Chuckchi Tribe needed. The Siberian Husky can travel very long distances without using lots of energy. This is yet another great feature the Husky has, making it a superior sledding dog. In 1909, the first team of Huskies showed up at the All Alaska Sweepstakes Race, and in 1910, the breed won a grueling 400 mile race. Since then, Huskies have started to win more sledding competitions. In 1930, the AKC recognized the Siberian Husky as an official breed.

Though this breed generally is healthy, it is prone to hip dysplasia and eye problems. In the grooming department, this breed's thick coat needs weekly brushing, and during shedding season, you may want to brush the Husky twice a week. If you're looking for a good apartment dog, keep looking, because this breed needs daily exercise in a large, fenced- in yard. Make sure that you have a tall fence, and in hot climates, limit your Husky's exercise as it may feel too hot with that double-layered coat. So it's best to keep this breed in cold climates. As for families, it's best to have this dog with older children. And you may want to keep this dog with no cats or other small animals in the house.

But in a nutshell, if you're looking for a great sledding dog and a great companion, the Siberian Husky this right breed for you!

Maltese

The Maltese is something to marvel at for sure. It has a beautiful, long, white coat. Though it may be beautiful, this breed's coat is intense when it comes to grooming, especially for show.

Other than its coat the Maltese has, dropped ears, and a black nose. And it also has eyes with very dark rims. What's not to love about the Maltese?

The Maltese may be the oldest European Toy breeds. Actually, they're one of the oldest breeds of all. There is evidence of Maltese-like dogs found in ancient pottery, as well as paintings and literature. And it's also possible that ancient Egyptians worshipped the Maltese. Though nobody can be sure how the Maltese ends up in Egypt, these dogs originated in Malta, hence the name. The first Maltese to be exhibited in America was listed as the "Maltese Lion Dog" at a show during 1877. The AKC registered the breed 11 years later.

The Maltese is a somewhat healthy breed, but they are prone to respiratory issues, eye problems, and in hot weather, put them by an air conditioner to keep it cool. The breed is also susceptible to dental problems, so sometimes you should actually brush their teeth every so often. The breed needs walks every now and then, but don't make it too long; your Maltese may get tire before you do. Another thing is to train them at an early age. They also become attached to their families, so if you leave, they might bark or whimper until you get back. This barking may annoy your neighbors, so you should train them out of this. The best way to do this is not to pamper the Maltese as a puppy too much. The breed may not get along with other pets, and don't like loud households, so it's best to have this dog with only one or two people in the household. And grooming is no walk in the park. Some owners cut the Maltese' coat shorter to avoid all of that brushing, but if you keep their coat like it should in show, you'll need to brush and bathe this pooch regularly. You should also clean its eyes and "beard" to prevent staining.

This breed knows no bounds when it comes to loving. It'll bounce right into your heart, right away.

Great Dane

If you say that bigger is better, the Great Dane is the breed for you. In fact, Great Danes have broken records for world's tallest dog, although on average the tallest dog breed is the Irish Wolfhound. It also doesn't get to its full height until 12-15 months. That's almost about 3 years!

Some Great Danes have been used as cartoon characters, like Scooby-Doo and Marmaduke. When they made Marmaduke into a movie, they used the Great Dane to be Marmaduke. And who doesn't love the amazing Great Dane?

These breeds are actually sometimes very lazy, and may take up your entire couch, so if you're considering getting one, make sure you have enough space for it.

The Great Dane is considered as a German breed. In Germany, the breed was used to take down wild boar for more than 400 years. Some also used it as a guard dog, probably when they found out how big this breed is. In 1891, this breed became the national dog of Germany.

If you are considering adopting a Great Dane, here are some things you may want to know. The Great Dane has a short life span, due to their large size. They have many health problems including cancer, bloating, heart disease, and hip dysplasia. Their average life span is 7-10 years. The breed needs lots of exercising space, and daily exercise to stay healthy. However, during your Great Dane's growth stage, you need to limit his exercise. Start training the breed at a young age, and you're good to go. The Great Dane has a short coat so grooming is minimal. Also, be sure that you supervise young children, as the breed's large size makes it more likely to accidentally knock over small kids.

Although the Great Dane was used to hunt boar and guard houses, the dog's fierce side is bred out of today's Great Dane. Who can resist the creature that is the amazing Great Dane?

Akita

Large, powerful, and incredible, the Akita is a breed like no other. They have a big head with a set of square, powerful jaws, a double-layered coat, and a tail that curls up to the top of his rear. And did you know that Helen Keller bought the first Akita to arrive to America? And that in Japan, where the breed originally came from, when a child is born, the parents obtain a miniature Akita statue representing health and happiness? The Akita is definitely one of the best dogs you could ever encounter.

The Akita was developed by Spitz-type dogs native to polar regions about 300 or so years ago. They were originally used in dog fighting, and then later used to hunt large game wild bears and wild boars, usually in northern Japan, were there were snowy mountains. And that may be the reason it has a double-layer coat.

Akitas have guarding instincts and will do everything in their power to protect its family. So it's best to socialize the breed at a young age so it gets to know who's safe, like family and friends and who's not safe, like intruders. Otherwise, it may mislead your friends as intruders. Also monitor the breed around small children. In general, this is a healthy breed, but watch out for hip dysplasia. Grooming isn't minimal nor a handful. It's best to groom them once a week. And the breed needs a fair amount of exercise every day. Also consider having a secure yard, as it used to be hunting dog, and will stop at nothing to catch it.

But all in all, this breed could be your new best friend. Their bodies are big, but their hearts are bigger.

Brittany

The Brittany definitely a unique breed. It's a medium-sized dog that has lots of energy. Just as much energy as he has charm. Another fact, (not opinion), about the Brittany is that occasionally people call them Brittany Spaniel. However, it isn't considered as a spaniel. The AKC first registered the breed as the Brittany Spaniel. But on September 1, 1982, the AKC shortened the name to just Brittany because it didn't behave like most other spaniels do. So that's why their proper names are Brittany.

This magnificent breed originated in France. It is named after the French province that it came from. They were bred to get game for their masters. But unlike Pointers, he points and holds the game waiting for their owners to come get the game. The breed arrived in the USA in 1931 and was recognized the AKC in 1934.

This dog is healthy in general, but they're prone to hip dysplasia, eye problems, skin allergies, and epilepsy. It's to live in a rural area for this breed. They need lots of good exercise every day, so having a large yard best for this breed. These dogs like to please, and just they did back then, they are happy to hunt game. The Brittany's coat is easy to groom; just give it a brushing or two every week to keep the coat looking great. And the Brittany likes to have love and attention, making it a good family dog, but monitor small children just in case.

The Brittany really is an amazing dog. It just might be your new best friend.

English Mastiff

If you have never seen a breed like the English Mastiff, you're probably thinking by looking at this picture- That's a huge dog! The English Mastiff is actually a massive dog that takes up lots of space. Though it isn't tallest, the English Mastiff may perhaps be the heaviest dog on the planet. In fact, they typically weigh as much as an average human, but one weighed about 340 pounds. That's a lot of dog!

Other than being big, this breed has many other traits. According to the AKC breed standard, the Mastiff comes in only three different coat patterns- fawn, apricot, and brindle. The Mastiff also has a short and coarse coat, a huge head and body, and a powerful muscle structure.

The English Mastiff, AKA, the Old English Mastiff, obviously originated in England. The English Mastiff used to guard castles and other places, and were also used as war dogs when the Romans invaded Britain. Some were brought down to Italy, where they guarded prisoners. They also fought in arenas as well. And in England, during the time of Queen Elizabeth I, the Mastiff was used to take down large game like bears and tigers, proving how powerful they are. By the late 19th century, Mastiffs were also imported in America, where, at the time, were used to guard plantations. Meanwhile, back in England, the Mastiff was used to pull munitions carts during World War I, but by the year 1920, this breed almost went extinct in England because of the huge amounts of food it consumed. Some owners were left with no choice but to put them asleep. But after World War II, British fanciers imported stock from the USA and Canada to revive the breed. However, there are still more Mastiffs in the US today then there are in modern-day England.

Although they used to take down large game and guarded properties and prisoners, today they are very friendly dogs that are great with most families, but be aware that the Mastiff may accidentally push down young children, so supervision is required. The breed takes up a lot of space, so be aware to have a large house or a yard or field where he can exercise. This dog's short coat easy to groom, but remember to have a towel near you. They drool a lot and you may not want that to be around the house, if you know what I mean. The dog's average lifespan is 6-11 years or so. He is prone to eye problems and cancer, hip dysplasia, bloats, cancer, hypothyroidism, aortic stenosis, and epilepsy.

Overall, this is a dog that will enlighten and overjoy you for ears to come and will make you always happy.