Bearded Collie

With an aura of strength and agility, the Bearded Collie was bred for centuries as a companion and servant of man. “Collie” is the generic Scottish word for dogs that herd sheep and the Beardie’s long, lean body and agile movement make him well-suited to that task. The breed still herds today, but they are also popular in the conformation, obedience, and agility rings. Their medium-length coat is flat, harsh, and shaggy. Beardies are born black, blue, brown, or fawn, with or without white markings. With maturity, the coat color may lighten.

History

One of Britain’s oldest breeds, Beardies (as they are often called), are believed to have originated with the Komondor in Central Europe but were used to herd animals in Scotland for so long they became known as the Highland Collie. Later the name was changed to Bearded Collie since they have long facial hair, unlike other collies.

Temperament

Active, outgoing, and affectionate, the Beardie makes a wonderful family pet. Like most long-haired breeds, Bearded Collies require a commitment to grooming. They need a few minutes of brushing or combing every day. This breed also needs exercise but will make a wonderful addition to many homes.

• Herding Group; AKC recognized in 1976.
• Ranging in size from 20 to 22 inches tall at the shoulder.
• Herding dog; drover.

Environment

• Apartments? Not so much.
• Fairly active indoors.
• Love average to large yards.
• Thrive in all weather.

Exercise

• Moderate to extended daily exercise.
• Vigorous play activities.

Grooming

• Daily brushing.
• Moderate shedding.
• Regular trimming and grooming recommended.

Jack Russel Terrier

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.

Miniature Poodle

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.

Shetland Sheepdog

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

• Daily moderate exercise.

Grooming

• Regular brushing.
• Bathe only when necessary.
• Heavy seasonal shedding.

Vizsla

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.

Weimaramer

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.

Siberian Husky

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.

English Bulldog

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

• Light daily exercise

Grooming

• Easy care
• Keep face clean
• Average shedding

Samoyed

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

• Daily moderate exercise.

Grooming

• Extensive brushing.
• Heavy seasonal shedding.

Dalmatian

The only spotted breed, the Dalmatian is alert and active, possessing great endurance, speed, and intelligence. Their working and sporting heritage makes them suitable as both a family pet or performance animal, and they are often found in the show, obedience and agility rings, or galloping alongside a horse as a coach dog in “road trials.” Their short coat is white with black or liver (brown) spots.

History

Spotted dogs have appeared throughout history in Europe, Asia, and Africa, credited with a dozen nationalities and as many native names. The dog we know today as the Dalmatian has been a dog of war, a draft dog, shepherd, ratter, fire-apparatus follower, firehouse mascot, bird dog, trail hound, and retriever. Most importantly, he is the original and only coaching dog. His affinity for horses remains a basic instinct to this day and the breed is a natural follower and guardian of the horse-drawn vehicle.

Temperament

The fun-loving, people-oriented Dalmatian thrives in a family environment. The breed’s short coat sheds almost year-round, but regular brushing helps minimize the shedding. The Dalmatian is great with kids but needs a little work with other dogs. It’s best to introduce the Dalmatian as a puppy to new environments.

• Non-Sporting Group; AKC recognized in 1888.
• Ranging in size from 19 to 23 inches tall at the shoulder.
• Coach dog; guardian.

Environment

• Apartment? Not so much.
• High activity indoors.

Exercise

• Moderate to vigorous daily exercise.

Grooming

• Frequent brushing.
• Infrequent bathing.
• Seasonal and year round shedding.