Miniature Schnauzer

Alternate Name: Zwergschnauzer

Breed Group: Terrier (AKC/UKC)

History and Overview:

Initially used around farms for hunting rats, the Miniature Schnauzer is a smaller version of the Standard Schnauzer that originated in Germany sometime in the late 1800s. This makes the Schnauzer one of the few terriers that did not originate in Great Britain. It is believed that this smaller breed was developed by crossing smaller Standard Schnauzers with Affenpinschers.  Today, the Miniature Schnauzer is popular across the world for its distinct look, wonderful temperament, and small size.

Physique:

Miniature Schnauzers resemble the larger Schnauzers, but Miniatures range in size from 14 to 18 lbs. They are normally 12 to 14 inches tall. The Miniature Schnauzer muzzle is equal in length to the skull, and is blunt and square-shaped. Miniature Schnauzers have small, deep-set eyes, and erect V-shaped ears that are either cropped or naturally folded. Their tails are thin and long, but are usually docked.

Character and Temperament:

The Miniature Schnauzer is an intelligent and alert dog. They are good family pets, however, they are generally considered a one-person dog and are very loyal to their master. Miniature Schnauzers get along well with most other dogs and new people. They generally do not wander away from home. They are obedient and willing to please. Unlike many terriers, they are usually not aggressive. Miniature Schnauzers are ratting dogs and may prey on small animals including cats. While they are very playful and friendly, they should be supervised with children. They adapt well to various living situations, including city and rural environments, however they should be kept  primarily indoors.

Health:

The average life span for a Miniature Schnauzer is 12-15 years. It usually maintains the same spry and energy throughout the majority of its life. Health concerns for the Miniature Schnauzers include allergy problems, diabetes, cataracts and peripheral retinal atrophy, melanoma and urinary stones.

Coat and Grooming:

The Miniature Schnauzer sheds very little compared to other dog breeds. It is double-coated, with a wiry outer coat and soft undercoat. It has a long head and muzzle, and is known for its distinct beard, mustache, and bushy eyebrows. The Miniature Schnauzer body is groomed short, but the legs and specific areas of the face are usually kept long. Schnauzers are salt and pepper colored, black, or black and silver. There remains some controversy as to whether or not white colored dogs are a true color variant of the Miniature Schnauzer.

Notable Crossbreeds:

• Miniature Schnauzer/Poodle
• Miniature Schnauzer/Affenpinscher

Shih Tzu

Breed Group:

Toy (AKC); Companion (UKC)

History and Overview:

A descendant of one of the oldest dog breeds, the Shih Tzu originated from the area of present day China and Tibet. Documentation shows Chinese royalty receiving a pair of Shih Tzus as pets during the Tang Dynasty (618-907 AD). In Chinese, Shih Tzu means “Lion Dog”, a name the breed was given because these dogs were bred to resemble the oriental-style lions depicted throughout Chinese art. Shih Tzus were reserved for elite ruling class, and during the Chinese revolution, the breed was almost destroyed. It is believed that all Shih Tzu’s descended from seven male and seven female dogs saved during the revolution. Today, the Shih Tzu is one of the most popular Toy breeds in the United States.

Physique:

The Shih Tzu weighs approximately 9 to 16 lbs. It averages 10 1/2 inches in height. It is slightly longer than it is tall and has a short, square snout. The Shih Tzu has a long tail that is held high and curls forward over its back. The coat of a Shih Tzu may be black and white (most common), solid black, solid red, solid liver, liver and white, blue and white, or silver and white. Many variations are common among the breed.

Character and Temperament:

The Shih Tzu is a friendly lap dog. As you’ll quickly notice, it carries itself very confidently. Having been bred to be a loyal companion for the Chinese ruling class, the Shih Tzu is highly affectionate. Shih Tzus should be introduced to children at a young age, but for the most part they get along with everyone. They are lively and alert, yet they do not require very much activity. This makes them great pets in an apartment.

Health:

The brachycephalic Shih Tzu may have breathing problems due to its short snout. Shih Tzus are very sensitive to heat and should not be subjected to hot temperatures. They may be prone to congenital liver shunts and hip dysplasia is common with larger Shih Tzus. They are also prone to allergies, cleft palate, eye problems, renal disease, and von Willebrand’s disease. Attempts to create a “teacup” size Shih Tzu have resulted in dogs with severe health problems and a much shorter lifespan.

Coat and Grooming:

The Shih Tzu’s long, silky coat demands constant grooming. Shih Tzus’ double coats are often clipped short, which makes grooming needs easier to maintain. Their hair is often kept in a front top knot to keep it out of their eyes.

Notable Crossbreeds:

• Shih-Poo – Shih Tzu/Poodle
• ShiChi – Shih Tzu/Chihuahua

Poodle

Alternate names: Caniche, Pudel

Breed Group:

Standard: Gun Dog (UKC); Non-sporting (AKC)

Miniature and Toy: Companion (UKC); Non-sporting (AKC), Toy (AKC)

History and Overview:

Popularly believed to have originated in Germany, the Poodle was initially used as a gun dog and water retriever. The name Poodle comes from the German ‘pudel’, which means “to splash in water”. The breed was standardized in France, where it gained popularity for both sport and leisure. They were first brought to the United States at the end of the nineteenth century. The Standard, or large, Poodle is the oldest of the three varieties, according to the American Kennel Club. The Miniature and Toy breeds were developed shortly thereafter and became popular companions for European royalty. The smallest of the three varieties, the Toy Poodle, was developed in England in the 18th century. Smaller Poodles, which may have been crossed with terriers, were used for truffle hunting throughout Europe. The smaller size of their paws was preferred for digging up truffles, so that they did less damage to these delicacies in the process. Today, Poodles can often be seen on the show floor. Regarded as the second most intelligent breed of dog, the Poodle is incredibly popular for both its beauty and intellect.

Physique:

The Standard Poodle stands over 15 inches tall and weighs between 45-70 pounds. Miniature Poodles are 11-15 inches in height and weigh roughly 14-16 pounds. Toy Poodles are up to 10 inches in height and weigh 5-7 pounds. The Poodle is a slender, muscular dog, with a long muzzle and long ears. It has a long skull and dark, oval eyes. The Poodle’s tail is docked and erect. Its nose may be black or liver-colored. Usually, lighter-coated, brown Poodles have liver-colored noses.

Character and Temperament:

Poodles are highly intelligent and trainable dogs. They are considered the second most intelligent dog breed, after Border Collies. Poodles are affectionate and become very attached to their owners and family. Poodles do well with children and other dogs when properly socialized, but some may be weary of strangers. All three variations of the Poodle require moderate amounts of exercise, but the Standard Poodle specifically requires a very active lifestyle and lots of exercise.

Health:

The average lifespan for the Poodle is 15-20 years. The most common ailments for the Standard Poodle are Addison’s disease, gastric dilatation volvulus (bloat/torsion), epilepsy, hip dysplasia, sebaceous adenitis, renal disease, skin disorders and thyroid problems. The leading causes of death for Poodles are cancer, old age, and gastric dilatation volvulus.

The Miniature and Toy Poodles are susceptible to Addision’s disease, bloat, Cushing’s disease, renal disease, epilepsy, hip dysplasia, Legg-Perthes disease (degenerative hip disease), luxating patellas, and von Willebrand’s disease (blood coagulation disease). As testament of their generally good health, the most common cause of death for Miniature Poodles is old age. The most common cause of death for Toy Poodles is old age and kidney failure (renal disease).  There is an even smaller variety known as the “Teacup” Poodle, which is more likely to have health problems, including various cardiac anomalies.

Coat and Grooming:

The Poodle’s coat was developed to be water resistant to help this avid swimmer to more easily move in the water. Their coat may be apricot, black, blue, cream, gray, silver, brown, or white. The unique grooming for the Poodle was mainly developed in France, and the Poodle remains notorious for having a variety of clipping styles. Their coats are coarse and curly. While usually clipped, they can be left to cord, hanging in ropes. They are known for being hypoallergenic dogs, as they shed very minimally. However, they are not completely allergen free dogs. There grooming needs are extensive and can be demanding.

Notable Crossbreeds:

• Labradoodle (Labrador Retriver/Poodle)
• Cockapoo (Cocker Spaniel/Poodle)
• Whoodle (Wheaten Terrier/Poodle)
• Lhasa poo (Lhasa Apso/Poodle)

Boxer

Breed Group: Working Dog (AKC), Guardian (UKC)

History and Overview:

Boxers originated in Germany and have been found throughout Europe since the 16th century. They were used for fighting and bull-baiting until said practices were outlawed in Germany. They were originally bred for hunting, although now they are rarely used for such a task. The Beagle is a close relative to the Bulldog and Mastiff. The name “Boxer” comes from their stance when playing or fighting, during which they stand on their hind legs and “box” with their front paws.

Physique:

Boxers range from 50-80 lbs., and 21-25 inches in height. They are compact, muscular dogs. Their face/muzzle is bulldog-like, with a prognathic facial structure. Their ears may be cropped or left naturally, flopping over at the top. They have a deep chest and compact feet. Their tails are almost always docked. Boxers have a short, smooth coat, and are fawn, tan or brindle with a black mask. They may also have white markings.

Character and Temperment:

Boxers are active, playful dogs that are very loyal and affectionate. They make excellent family pets and are gentle and friendly with children. They are renowned for their loyalty to their owners, although they may be initially weary of strangers.  They can accommodate well to city life, when given plenty of exercise. As active dogs, they need to be properly exercised and entertained to prevent destructive behaviors such as chewing or digging. They also need to be socialized in order to be comfortable with strangers. Boxers do not have an aggressive nature and may do well with small pets, but care should be taken with other large dogs of the same sex to avoid vicious behavior.

Health:

The average Boxer lifespan is between 10-12 years. Sadly, Boxers are prone to several diseases. They are often stricken with cancer and genetic cardiovascular problems, such as aortic stenosis and cardiac myopathies. Cancer accounts for more Boxer deaths than old age, followed closely by heart problems. Boxers are brachycephalic and therefore prone to breathing difficulties. They are also prone to thyroid problems, hip dysplasia, and gastrointestinal problems.

Coat and Grooming:

Boxers have a short, smooth coat that is usually fawn in color, but may also be brindle and/or white. Luckily, Boxers are very easy to groom. They shed as do most short haired dogs, but minimally compared to many other breeds. Occasional brushing and a bath when deemed necessary should be sufficient in keeping your Boxer clean.

Beagle

Breed Group: Hound (AKC), Scenthound (UKC)

History and Overview:

Resembling a miniature Foxhound, the Beagle is one of America’s most popular dog breeds. Although the Beagle has been around for millennia, the modern Beagle was developed in Great Britian around 150 years ago for tracking wild game. The Beagle has an amazing sense of smell which has even led to its popularity as a detection dog around the world. This breed is great for an active family and is quite adaptable to any living situation.

Physique:

The Beagle is a small to medium-sized hound dog standing roughly 10-15 inches tall and weighing between 20-30 lbs. The Beagle is a lean dog that is marginally longer than it is tall. It has a square-cut muzzle, large hazel or brown eyes, and a black nose. Beagle ears are long and broad. The Beagle’s tail is long and set high. It is common for a Beagle’s tail to have a white tip, a trait selectively bred so that the Beagle could be more easily seen when its head is down following a scent.

Character and Temperament:

Beagles make great family dogs. They are energetic, easy-going, and alert. They can be challenging to train due to their determination and desire to follow scents, but they are very intelligent. Beagles are excitable, and need to be part of a family with an active lifestyle. They are loyal and easily warm up to new people.

Health:

The average Beagle lifespan is between 12-15 years. Beagles have few health concerns, but are somewhat prone to epilepsy and hypothyroidism. Both can be treated with medications. Beagles also are susceptible to obesity as they age, and need to be kept active and have regular veterinarian check-ups. Due to their size, lack of heart problems, and even temper, Beagles, sadly, are often used to test all kinds of products, including food additives, cosmetics, and medical research.

Coat & Grooming:

The Beagle has a short, smooth, hard coat that comes in a variety of colors. Most often, the Beagle’s coat consists of a tricolor combination of brown, black, and white, but various two-color combinations are also common. Beagles tend to shed quite a bit, and might not be the best option for people with related allergies.  Weekly brushing and the occasional bath should be sufficient for keeping your Beagle clean.

Notable Crossbreeds:

• Puggle – Beagle/Pug
• Beagapoo – Beagle/Poodle
• Bagle Hound – Beagle/Bassett Hound
• Boglen Terrier – Beagle/Boston Terrier

Breed Group: Hound (AKC); Scenthound (UKC)

History and Overview:

Dachshunds originated in Germany around the 16th century. The word “dachshund” is German for “badger dog”. As suggested, the standard size Dachshund was bred to hunt badgers and other burrowing prey. The smaller, Miniature Dachshund was bred to hunt smaller prey, including rabbits. It is commonly believed that Dachshunds descended from scent hounds, such as Bloodhounds, Basset Hounds, and Pointers. The Dachshund is also believed to be relative of the Terrier. The breed became popular as a companion dog in the United States in the 1930′s and 40′s.

Physique:

Dachshunds are well known for their long bodies and short stubby legs. They have long ears, long noses, and long tails. Their paws are designed specifically for digging. The standard sized Dachshund can weigh from 16-32 lbs., while the miniature is usually under 11 lbs. The slightly loose skin of the Dachshund allows it to move efficiently when chasing prey in confined spaces. Dachshunds usually come in one of three coat varieties: wire haired, smooth coated, and long haired. Their coloring may be red, black with tan markings, tan, chocolate, blue, red and cream, or fawn. There are also pattern varieties including dapple, brindle, piebald, and wild boar (salt and pepper coating).

Character and Temperament:

Dachshunds are very loyal to their owners and families, but may be standoffish and weary of strangers. They need to be introduced carefully to children. They are friendly and fun-loving dogs. They are intelligent and playful. Some Dachshunds are very active, while others are more sedentary. Dachshunds can adapt to various living environments and the Miniature Dachshunds do especially well in apartment settings. While they can be stubborn at times, they are trainable to a certain degree.

Health:

One of the most important health concerns with Dachshunds are their backs, due to their long vertebral column and short chest and legs. They are susceptible to intervertebral disc disease. They need to be discouraged from jumping onto furniture or other high surfaces. They should have doggie stairs against beds or other high places where they may be allowed. Obesity is common in dachshunds and puts an extreme amount of strain on their long backs. Paralysis may occur if their backs are not given proper attention. Other health concerns include bloat, epilepsy, and hypothyroidism.

Coat and Grooming:

The short-haired Dachshund requires a minimal amount of grooming while the long-haired variety requires regular grooming. The wire-haired Dachshund requires moderate grooming as well.

Notable Crossbreeds:

• Chiweenie (Chihuahua and Dachshund)

English Bulldog

Breed Group: Non-Sporting (AKC), Companion (UKC)

History and Overview:

The English Bulldog, known simply as the Bulldog, originated from Great Britain. It was primarily bred for holding bulls for butchers and later used for bull baiting, a popular gambling sport in the 1600′s. The original Bulldog was a bit larger than the Bulldog we know today. In the 1800′s, Bulldogs were crossbred with Pugs and became popular pets. The loveable Bulldog is currently the seventh most popular breed in the United States and is also one of  the most popular mascots, representing thirty-nine major American universities and the United States Marine Corps.

Physique:

Bulldogs have a very distinct build. They are medium-sized, but heavy with thick-set bodies. Their weight ranges from 40-50 lbs and they are 12 to 16 inches tall. They have large, broad heads and  square, prognathic lower jaws. They have dark eyes, black noses, and small rose-shaped ears. Bulldogs are deep-chested with relatively short backs. They have naturally short tails (rare for dogs) that are either straight or curled. Bulldogs also have loose, wrinkly skin, especially around their necks.

Character and Temperament:

Bulldogs can sometimes be strong-willed, but overall they are affectionate and adaptable dogs. They are friendly and get along well with children and other pets. Bulldogs tend to stay attached to their owners and are not inclined to venture off and run away from home. Bulldogs often snort, drool, and experience frequent flatulence. While they require a small amount of daily exercise to prevent excessive weight gain,  Bulldogs can adapt well to apartment life. They get along with almost anyone, but they may need extra socialization to become accustomed to other dogs, especially more energetic dogs. Bulldogs are somewhat less intelligent than many other dogs and often have more difficulty learning commands and tricks.

Health:

The average life span for a Bulldog is about 8-10 years. Approximately 74% of Bulldogs have hip dysplasia of varying degrees. Bulldogs are also prone to brachycephalic syndrome, small trachea, patellar luxation, eye problems and allergies.

Coat and Grooming:

Bulldogs have a short, smooth coat, with a minimal amount of shedding. They are considered relatively low maintenance dogs. However, they require that their facial wrinkles be cleaned to prevent irritation and infection. Otherwise, brushing a few times and providing a monthly bath should be sufficient in keeping your Bulldog clean.

Golden Retriever

Breed Group: Sporting (AKC), Gun Dog (UKC)

History and Overview:

Originally bred for retrieving and companionship in the Scottish highlands, the Golden Retriever was created by British aristocrat Lord Tweedmouth in the mid-19th century.  The first Golden Retriever is believed to be a cross between a yellow, wavy-coated Retriever and a Tweed Water Spaniel (now extinct). First recognized by the AKC in 1925, the breed is currently recognized as the fourth most popular dog in the United States. This popularity is not surprising, due to the fact that the Golden Retriever is highly affectionate, friendly towards strangers and foreign animals, easily trainable, and always playful.

Physique:

The Golden Retriever is a medium to large-size dog. It averages between 21-24 inches tall and weighs roughly 55-75lbs. It is characterized by a broad head with drop ears, a black or brownish black nose, brown eyes, and a long tail.

Character and Temperament:

The Golden Retriever is known as “everyone’s friend” and is widely appreciated for its natural inclination toward companionship. Golden Retrievers get along with pretty much everyone and are great with children. They are also very physical animals and love to play. One downside: their high energy can lead to behavior problems when they do not get enough exercise. Furthermore, poor breeding practices have produced Golden Retrievers who are overly boisterous when left alone at home. This can be remedied by training and providing chew toys for your dog while you are away. A properly bred Retriever is one that will remain calm when trained, yet energetic when given the opportunity to play outside.

Training:

The Golden Retriever is intelligent and therefore, easily trainable. Standard training methods are advised. The Golden Retriever’s natural obedience also makes it a top performer in competition.

Health:

The average life expectancy for Golden Retrievers is between 10-12 years. Some common health problems are a proneness to cancer, hip and elbow dysplasia, cataracts, heart problems, and skin allergies. Golden Retrievers gain weight easily which can lead to hip and elbow dysplasia, so control their diet carefully.

Coat & Grooming:

The Golden Retriever has a double coat consisting of a soft, dense undercoat and a thick outer coat. Its outer coat can be either straight or wavy and is usually one of many different shades of gold. The Gold Retriever sheds seasonally and requires daily brushing with a firm bristle brush. Bathe only when necessary.

Notable Crossbreeds:

• Goldador – Golden Retriever, Labrador Retriever
• Goldendoodle – Golden Retriever, Poodle

Yorkshire Terrier

Breed Group: Toy (AKC), Companion (UKC)

History and Overview:

Originally bred to control rats in the mines and cotton mills of Yorkshire, England, the Yorkshire Terrier quickly became a popular breed among working class families. An adorable member of the toy dog group, the tiny breed is a mixture of England’s finest terriers: the Clydesdale Terrier, English Black and Tan Terrier, Waterside Terrier, and the Paisley Terrier. The Yorkie’s popularity has only grown since the its introduction to the United States in the 1870s, and they are currently the third most popular dog according the American Kennel Club.

Physique:

The Yorkie is a very small, well-balanced dog with square proportions and a high head carriage. Average height for a Yorkie is between 7-9 inches. They usually weigh between 3-7lbs.

Character and Temperament:

The temperament of this dog breed is that of a confident and courageous animal. The Yorkshire Terrier seems to be oblivious to its small stature. Always eager for fun and adventure, this dog can be a bit aggressive towards other small animals and strange canines. It definitely maintains that old rough-edged terrier spirit. However, if properly socialized and trained, the Yorkie can get along well with most animals and children.

Training:

Training and proper socialization is important for the Yorkie. An untrained Yorkie can be much more aggressive and feisty with other animals and children. On the other hand, a well-trained Yorkie can be a fantastic pet. Yorkies are intelligent and easily trainable. The Yorkshire Terrier is even a popular showdog.

Health:

Yorkies have an average life span of 13-16 years. Like other toy dog breeds, the Yorkshire Terrier needs exercise but can get all of the physical activity it needs by running between the rooms of a house or small apartment. However, this does not mean that the Yorkie does not enjoy the outdoors. In fact, Yorkies love to take brisk walks with their owners. Just be sure to keep your dog on leash to avoid problems with other small animals. Yorkies can suffer from dental problems, luxating patellas, hypoglycemia, Legg-Perthes disease, and liver shunt.

Coat & Grooming:

The Yorkie is easily recognized by its long, silky coat. Its hair usually parts down the middle of its back and can drag across the ground. The hair on its face is long and blends in with the rest of its coat. Puppies are usually born black and tan, but will often mature into a steel blue and tan coat. Other common coat colors are blue and gold and black and gold. The Yorkie is often considered to be a hypoallergenic dog breed because it sheds much less than most dog breeds. Still, daily brushing and a monthly bath is recommended. You may also want to consider having your Yorkie’s hair trimmed on occasion for easier care.

Notable Crossbreeds:

• The Australian Silky Terrier
• Biewer Terrier
• Yorkie Pin (Yorkshire Terrier, Miniature Pinscher)
• Yoranian (Yorkshire Terrier, Pomeranian)
• Snorkie (Miniature Schnauzer, Yorkshire Terrier)
• Malkies a/k/a Morkies (Maltese, Yorkshire Terrier)

German Shepherd Dog

Alternate Names: Deutscher Schaferhund, Alsatian

Breed Group: Herding (AKC, UKC)

History and Overview:

A descendant of farm and herding dogs, the German Shepherd is a relatively young breed originating around the early twentieth century. This dog resembles its distant ancestor, the wolf, and was originally bred to be the ideal herding shepherd and guard dog. Today, the German Shepherd Dog is incredibly popular as a police and military dog, and it is recognized as the second most popular dog breed in the United States according to the American Kennel Club. As long as they are provided with a social and active lifestyle, German Shepherd Dogs are great for most  family types and living situations.

Physique:

German Shepherd Dogs, or GSDs for short, are large dogs standing approximately 22-26 inches tall and weighing 60-90lbs. They have long, muscular bodies and are incredibly agile. They are characterized by large prick ears, black noses, and dark eyes. They have a long tail that is set low and curves up slightly.

Character and Temperament:

GSDs are highly intelligent dogs, third only behind Border Collies and Poodles.  They are even-tempered, confident dogs, but they need to be socialized early and often. They do well with children and most other animals, but some German Shepherds can be cat chasers. While very affectionate towards friends and family, GSDs can be quite reserved with strangers at first. However, they usually warm up to most individuals quickly.

Training:

German Shepherd Dogs are eager to learn and are extremely intelligent. They can quickly learn new commands and tricks especially if trained using reward-based methods. They need mental and physical challenges on a daily basis so strict adherence to a training plan is advised.

Health:

German Shepherd Dogs have an average life span of 7-10 years old. It is very important that an owner provides an adequate level of physical activity for his/her German Shepherd. Long walks and running outside is ideal. A large backyard is highly recommended. Although strong and healthy animals, it is possible for German Shepherd Dogs to suffer from a number of problems including epilepsy, hip and elbow dysplasia, arthritis, panostetis, and exocrine pancreatic insufficiency. Like all large breeds, German Shepherd Dogs are prone to bloat.

Coat & Grooming:

The German Shepherd Dog has a thick double coat comprised of a short, dense undercoat and a straight, full outer coat. They have thicker hair at the neck and thighs. Their coats are most often black and tan in color, but other variations are solid black, black and red, and less commonly, solid white. German Shepherds shed year-round. Brushing and a monthly bath with a mild shampoo will help decrease the amount of shedding, but will not fully remedy the problem.