A cheerful, happy dog, the Bichon Frise is small and sturdy with a dark-eyed inquisitive expression and a plumed tail it carries merrily over the back. The breed is often compared to a cotton ball due to its curled double coat, which consists of a textured outer coat and a silky undercoat. The coat must be white but may have shadings of buff, cream, or apricot around the ears or on the body.
History
The Bichon Frise appeared in the 13th century as a descendent of the Water Spaniel. Traded by Spanish sailors and transported from continent to continent, the breed eventually became a favorite of those in the 16th-century French royal courts. The breed was also favored by the painters of the Spanish school, who often included them in their works. Although the breed’s colorful past includes use as a circus dog, today the Bichon is enjoyed primarily as a companion animal.
Temperament
The Bichon is a naturally gentle, playful dog. He loves activity and requires regular exercise. His hair grows continually and does not shed, so extensive grooming is a must to prevent mats. Bichons also tend to be a good breed for allergy sufferers. They do very well with families and also with other dogs in the household. The Bichon Frise also trains very well with a firm hand!
- Non-Sporting Group; AKC recognized in 1972.
- Ideal size between 9 and 11 inches tall at the shoulder.
Environment
- Apartment is fine.
- Fairly active indoors.
Exercise
Grooming
- Frequent professional grooming recommended.
- Little or no shedding.
- Easy on allergy sufferers.
The Bea-Bull is a cross between the Beagle and the Bulldog. The best way to determine the temperament of a mixed breed is to look up all breeds in the cross and know you can get any combination of any of the characteristics found in either breed. Not all designer hybrid dogs are 50% purebred to 50% purebred. It is very common for breeders to breed multi-generation crosses.
The Russell Terrier is a strong, hardy, earth-working Terrier. He is full of life and moves with confidence that matches his keen expression. The breed’s handy size, small flexible chest, nose, strong voice, and fearless nature make it an excellent specimen to work vermin below ground. Its weatherproof coat may be smooth, broken, or rough and is predominantly white with tan and/or black markings.
History
The Russell Terrier originated in England but developed in Australia. The small size of the breed made it ideal to be carried on horseback in terrier bags, a requisite for certain terrain. The breed is derived from the Reverend Parson’s fox working terrier strains, sharing many common characteristics of the Parson Russell Terrier. However, it must be noted the two breeds are distinctly different in body structure and height and have been maintained as separate breeds in the US and Europe.
Temperament
The Russell Terrier is confident, highly intelligent and faithful, and views life as a great adventure. The breed possesses a vast amount of energy, so it does best with an active family that spends a lot of time outdoors. It will remain devoted and loving to its ‘people’ for its lifetime. The Russell Terrier coat requires minimal upkeep beyond brushing and occasional bathing.
- Miscellaneous class.
- Ranging in size from 10 to 12 inches tall at the shoulder.
- Fox hunter.
Environment
- Apartment is ok.
- Very active indoors.
Exercise
- Daily moderate to extended exercise.
Grooming
- Easy care.
- Bathe only when necessary.
Highly intelligent and one of the most trainable breeds. Pleasant, happy, and sensitive. Perky and lively. Demanding and delightful. Very amusing and clever. Likes to be with his people. Tends to be reserved with strangers; should be well socialized as a puppy. Any effort the owner puts into training and socialization will be well rewarded. Some bloodlines may be high-strung and timid. May snap if teased or surprised.
History
The Poodle is most likely descended from early German water retrievers, but may also be related to spaniels from the Iberian Peninsula. The name probably derives from the German word “Pudel” (one who plays in the water). Hunters originally clipped the dog’s thick coat to help it swim, leaving hair on the leg joints to protect them from extreme cold and sharp reeds. The French capitalized on the breed’s high intelligence, trainability, and innate showmanship, using the Poodle as a circus performer. The breed’s great popularity in that country led to the common name, French Poodle. In France, however, the Poodle is called the “Caniche,” or duck dog. The Poodle has also been used to sniff out truffles lying underground in the woods. Poodles are depicted in 15th-century paintings and in bas-reliefs from the 16th century. Toy Poodles became royal favorites, particularly in the 18th century. The Toy and Miniature Poodle varieties were bred down from the original larger dogs, now known as Standard Poodles. The three sizes are considered as one breed and are judged by the same standard. Today, the Poodle is primarily a companion and show dog, though he can learn almost anything.
Originally from Hungary, the Vizsla is a medium-sized, short-coated hunting dog that is essentially Pointer in type, although he combines characteristics of both pointer and retriever. An attractive golden rust in color, this “dual” dog is popular in both the field and the show ring due to his power and drive while hunting and his trainability in the home.
History
The Vizsla’s ancestors were hunters and companions for the Magyar hordes, a tribe that settled in what is now known as Hungary. A favorite of early barons, Vizslas are depicted in etchings as far back as the 10th century.
The agricultural terrain of Hungary created a dog of superior nose and high-class hunting ability well-suited to Hungarian climate and a variety of game, including upland game, rabbits, and waterfowl. Nearly extinct by the end of the World Wars, the Vizsla gradually regained popularity and began to be imported into the United States in the 1950s.
Temperament
The Vizsla thrives as part of an active family that provides daily exercise. He is lively and affectionate to his people and possesses an above-average ability to take training. Although he sheds, his short coat requires low daily maintenance.
- Sporting Group; AKC recognized in 1960.
- Average size: 21 to 24 inches tall at the shoulder.
- Hunting dog, family companion.
Environment
- Apartment? Not so much.
- Fairly active indoors.
Exercise
- Daily vigorous and extended exercise.
Grooming
- Easy care.
- Bathe only when necessary.
- Average shedding.
Often referred to as the “grey ghost” because of the distinctive color of its short, sleek coat, the Weimaraner is a graceful dog with aristocratic features. Bred for speed, good scenting ability, courage, and intelligence, he remains an excellent game hunter and active participant in other dog sports.
History
Originally known as the Weimer Pointer (derived from the court that sponsored the breed), the Weimaraner is a product of selective German breeding and comes from the same general stock as other German hunting breeds. It is believed to be a descendant of the Bloodhound and was originally used to hunt wolves, deer, and bear. Over the years because of the rarity of bigger game in his surroundings, the Weimaraner adapted to become a bird dog and personal hunting companion.
Temperament
Lauded for his ability to work with great speed, fearlessness, and endurance when on the hunt, the Weimaraner is also known for being an easily trainable, friendly, and obedient member of the family. This is a breed that loves children and enjoys being part of his family’s “pack.” Grooming maintenance is low due to his short coat.
- Sporting Group; AKC recognized in 1943.
- Average size: 23 to 27 inches tall at the shoulder.
- Hunting dog, family companion.
Environment
- Apartment is ok.
- Low activity indoors.
Exercise
- Daily extended and vigorous exercise.
Grooming
- Easy care.
- Average shedding.
Bred in Northeast Asia as a sled dog, the Siberian Husky is known for its amazing endurance and willingness to work. Its agreeable and outgoing temperament makes it a great all-around dog, suitable for anything from sledding to therapy work. Because it originated in cold climates, Siberians have a thicker coat than most other breeds of dog, made up of a dense cashmere-like undercoat and a longer, coarse topcoat. All colors from black to pure white are allowed, but a variety of markings on the head is common.
History
The Siberian Husky is widely believed to have originated from within the Chukchi Tribe, off the eastern Siberian peninsula. These dogs were used in 1908 for the All-Alaskan Sweepstakes, which consisted of a 408-mile long dogsled race, and served in the Army’s Arctic Search and Rescue Unit during World War II.
Temperament
Siberians are relatively easy keepers, but their thick coats require weekly brushing. New owners should be prepared to provide an outlet for exercise daily, whether through walks or an enclosed space in which to run. Predatory instincts are strong, so Siberians should be supervised around small animals in and around the home. Siberians do well around children but tend to stay aloof. They want to protect their pack because that’s what they were bred to do.
- Working Group; AKC recognized in 1930.
- Ranging in size from 20 to 23 inches tall at the shoulder and 35 to 60 pounds.
- Sled dog.
Environment
- Apartment? Not so much.
- Very active indoors.
Exercise
- Daily moderate to extended exercise.
- Loves a large yard.
Grooming
- Regular brushing.
- Heavy seasonal shedding.
A hardy and eager worker, the Samoyed is known for black lips that curl slightly at the corners into the “Samoyed smile.” Bright and alert, he likes to stay busy and enjoys participating in agility, herding, weight pulling, sledding, pack hiking, conformation shows, and more! His heavy, weather-resistant coat is suitable for very cold climates and should be pure white, white, and biscuit, cream or biscuit.
History
An ancient working breed, the Samoyed is very close to the primitive dog no mixture of wolf or fox runs through the breed’s gene pool. He was developed by the Samoyed people of Siberia. They used the dogs for herding reindeer, hunting and hauling sleds as well as guard work. The breed was cherished by these people they even allowed them to sleep in their tents because they depended on the dogs for their survival.
Temperament
Intelligent, gentle, and loyal, Samoyeds enjoy being with their families. Due to their working heritage, they may chase things, run and bark, so it’s best to channel that energy into some kind of job or activity. Otherwise, these independent thinkers may invent ways to keep themselves entertained. At the very least, daily exercise is necessary. The Samoyed coat can also mat and needs to be brushed weekly, more often during shedding season.
- Working Group; AKC recognized in 1906.
- Ranging in size from 19 to 23 inches tall at the shoulder.
- Reindeer herder; Sled dog; Multi-purpose dog.
Environment
- Apartment is ok.
- Very active indoors.
- Thrive in cooler climates.
Exercise
Grooming
- Extensive brushing.
- Heavy seasonal shedding.
The Shetland Sheepdog, or “Sheltie” as it is commonly called, is essentially a working Collie in miniature. A rough-coated, longhaired working dog, he is alert, intensely loyal, and highly trainable, and is known as a devoted, docile dog with a keen sense of intelligence and understanding. Agile and sturdy, the Sheltie is one of the most successful obedience breeds, but also excels in agility, herding, and conformation. The coat can be black, blue merle, or sable, marked with varying amounts of white and/or tan. The Sheltie is small and therefore easy to take on trips! And because of their small stature, they are accepted in many hotels.
History
Like the Collie, the Sheltie’s history traces back to the Border Collie of Scotland, which, after being transported to the Shetland Islands and crossed with small, intelligent, longhaired breeds, was eventually reduced to miniature proportions. Over time, subsequent crosses were made with Collies. The breed worked as farm helpers and home protectors, watching over crofters’ cottages, flocks, and herds from invaders of all kinds. The Sheltie does great with children and other dogs. They are also easy to train!
Temperament
Shelties love their families but may be reserved at first with strangers. As a herding dog, they can be inclined to bark at and herd people. Shelties thrive on the farm but adapt to many living situations if given proper exercise. The breed’s dense double coat requires regular maintenance.
- Herding Group; AKC recognized in 1911.
- Ranging in size from 13 to 16 inches tall at the shoulder.
- Sheepherder, farm dog.
Environment
- Apartment is ok.
- Fairly active indoors.
Exercise
Grooming
- Regular brushing.
- Bathe only when necessary.
- Heavy seasonal shedding.
Known for their loose-jointed, shuffling gait and massive, short-faced head, the English Bulldog is known to be equable, resolute, and dignified. A medium-sized dog, they are not your typical lap dog, but would like to be! They are one of the most popular breeds according to AKC Registration Statistics due to their lovable and gentle dispositions and adorable wrinkles. The English Bulldog may be brindle, white, red, fawn, fallow, or piebald.
History
Said to have originated in the British Isles, the name “bull” was applied because of the dog’s connection with bull baiting. The original bulldog had to be ferocious and courageous, and almost insensitive to pain. When dog fighting became illegal in England, fanciers set to the task of preserving the breed by eliminating the fierce characteristics. Within a few generations, the Bulldog became one of the finest physical specimens with an agreeable temperament.
Temperament
English Bulldogs are recognized as excellent family pets because of their tendency to form strong bonds with children. They tend to be gentle and protective. The breed requires minimal grooming and exercise. Their short nose makes them prone to overheating in warm weather, so make sure to provide a shady place to rest. Generally, Bulldogs are known for getting along well with children, other dogs, and pets. They can become so attached to home and family, that they will not venture out of the yard without a human companion. Bulldogs do better with positive training. They love getting rewarded with treats!
- Non-Sporting Group; AKC recognized in 1886.
- Ranging in size from 40 to 50 pounds.
- Family companion.
Environment
- Apartment is fine, also small condo
- Low activity indoors, due to their snouts
- thrive in moderate climates
Exercise
Grooming
- Easy care
- Keep face clean
- Average shedding
