Classic Dog Breeds

"Buy a pup, and your money will buy love unflinching" (Rudyard Kipling)

Finding the perfect pooch for your lifestyle

Every dog is both wonderful and unique. Just because you have a dog from a particular breed that does not mean that you have some kind of clone; your new pet will be an individual developing through interaction with the specific environment.

But this does not negate the importance of breed research. From this you will get an understanding of the kind of raw genetic material that you will be working with and understanding the commitment you are making in terms of time and space within your home. Some breeds of dogs need more time committed to training and socialization, or even a particular focus such as recall or support with separation anxiety. Others will require more or less exercise, or tend to be more resilient if they are left alone for any period of time. This research will ensure that you make the wonderful journey of owning a dog as smooth as possible. Owning a dog should always be a serious commitment for many years and being forearmed is forewarned.

Also researching the breed of your dog can be fascinating. Every dog is a living and breathing representative of one aspect of man’s fascinating relationship with these amazing companions and

The breed guide is organized around the American Kennel Club’s groupings of breeds although there is also reference to the English Kennel Club’s categorizations. A group will give you a general idea of broad characteristics of these dogs (apart from the Non-Sporting Group which acts as a kind of catch-all). Each group has an overview with a selection of sample breeds providing a basis for more focused research.From there you can explore specific breeds in more detail.

Clicking on the pictures or the text will take you to a specific breed page. Good luck finding your perfect pooch or enjoy browsing and finding out about the many wonderful and varied forms of this truly wonderful animal.

The Working Group

Overview

Click here or on the picture to find out more about the background of the stellar cast of versatile and intelligent breeds in this group.

Doberman Pinscher

A very exciting breed of dog despite having taxation as its origin story. Quick in both mind and body and with good socialization makes an excellent family dog. Click here or on the picture to find out more.

Great Dane

The ‘Apollo of Dogs’ is a truly amazing and majestic animal. This former ‘catching-dog’ bred to bring down large prey such as boars, is now truly ‘a gentle giant’ and the biggest lapdog on the planet. Click here or on the picture to find out more.

Mastiff

The heaviest dog in the world but don’t tell him too often as he also has a sensitive temperament. Click here or on the picture to find out more about this gentle giant.

Rottweiler

Not the devil’s dog but rather a devilishly handsome and clever canine. A balanced temperament and fierce loyalty make this breed a wonderful family pet. Click here or on the picture to find out more.

Siberian Husky

The beautiful dog that was ‘born to run’. This dog also enjoys a good chat or even sing with their owners. Please click here or on the picture for more information.

Boxer

The Boxer is a real knock-out of a dog. Once you own a Boxer no other breed will do. This breed may be strong in body, but it has an even more powerful personality. Click here or on the picture to find out more

Cane Corso

The Cane Corso is a very exciting breed that directly descends from the Roman dogs of war. Since then it has proven an effective guardian of our homes and farms for more than two millennia. Physically powerful with a huge personality these dogs also make calm and affectionate family pets with the right socialization and training. Click here or on the picture to find out more.

Neapolitan Mastiff

If you want a superb guard dog and a loving and affectionate member of the family all rolled up in one wrinkly bundle then look no further that this gentle giant. The Neapolitan Mastiff is a low-energy dog who only requires moderate exercise. But don’t be fooled by the relaxed temperament. this dog is always alert and ready to spring into protection mode. Click here or on the picture to find out more.

Dogue de Bordeaux

This powerful breed is a ferociously loyal but gentle family dog. This dog is generally low-maintenance but does not do well if not near his human family for most of the time. The Dogue de Bordeaux can be trained to a good standard and would benefit from an experienced owner to ensure that this powerful dog is entirely biddable through socialization and training. Click here or on the picture to find out more,

Tibetan Mastiff

The Tibetan Mastiff is a hugely powerful dog but is also low-energy with a gentle and relaxed temperament. If well-socialized these dogs can make fantastic family pets, and are generally not aggressive towards other dogs and animals.
They do need a high level of canine leadership so may not suit novice owners. But these intelligent dogs can be trained to a very good standard. Click here or on the picture to find out more

Bullmastiff

The Bullmastiff does put the close into the close protection. This adoring dog will want to be with you everywhere!
The Bullmastiff is a wonderful family dog with a gentle and kind temperament. They are also easy going company and only bark infrequently. But still make a fantastic guardian of the home and family. Please click here or on the picture to find out more.

Boerboel

The Boerboel is the result of many generations of breeding large, powerful and intelligent dogs who offer the complete package in terms of guard and protection dogs.
Off duty this is dog has an even and gentle temperament and is devotedly loyal to all members of its human family.

Saint Bernard

The Saint Bernard is a beautiful dog with a very proud history. This Mastiff-based breed turned its size and strength to rescuing the lost and desperate on the unforgiving slopes of the Alps. These days the Saint Bernard is much happier curled up at home. They make a wonderfully loyal, tolerant and devoted family dog for owners with the time and space to accommodate this magnificent breed.

The Hound Group

Overview

The Hound Group of Breeds is an exciting group containing the real Olympic athletes of the dog world. Click here or on the picture to find out more.

Beagle

Since the 15th century this adorable breed has graced the hunting fields of England and France. Known of its almost unparalleled sense of smell and the volume and melodiousness of its baying, the Beagle is now mostly a treasured and popular family pet. Click here on the text or the picture to find out more.

Bloodhound

Having the best nose in the canine kingdom is certainly not to be sniffed at. But this sleuth-hound also has a very balanced and calm temperament which makes for a wonderful family dog. Click here or on the picture to find out more.

Dachshund

Another iconic breed who had the honor of having ‘the hot dog’ named after them. This ‘badger-hound’ is the smallest in the group but is another dog who is a fantastic dog in the home you will need to protect your plants from this compulsive digger. Click here or on the picture for more information.

Greyhound

The fastest couch potato in the planet has a laid back temperament and is known for cleanliness in the house. Choose this dog and you will be on track to get one of best breeds for a first time dog-owner. Click here or on the picture for more information.

Irish Wolfhound

The Irish Wolfhound is an ancient breed who first emerges out of the mists of Celtic legend and myth. The tallest dog in the world may be a tall order for an inexperience owner but their willingness to please makes them a wonderful dog for those with lots of space. Click here or on the picture for more information.

The Sporting Group

Overview

This group of dogs are hardy, intelligent and versatile. They have come off the fields into our homes so successfully that these breeds include the most popular dog of all and are generally high in the rankings. Click here or on the picture to find out more.

English Pointer

An athletic, loyal and very obedient dog who is always up for a game. This hardy breed is perfect for the outdoors type and will happily accompany you on walks, hikes or runs in all weathers. Click here or on the picture to find out more.

Golden Retriever

The Golden Retriever is a fetching dog in both senses of the word. Not only is it adept and returning with balls, Frisbees and toys but it also makes for a beautiful, loyal and empathetic family dog. Click here or on the picture to find out more.

Irish Setter

With a coat that looks like tendrils of flame trailing behind as it runs, the Irish Setter is the dog that just wants to have fun. This Setter sometimes takes a little longer to train than others but the results are truly worth it. Click here or on the picture to find out more.

Labrador Retriever

Perhaps Canada’s finest export, the Lab has topped the breed popularity charts for 30 years. This dog will always bring your Frisbee back and its soft mouth means your paper will be returned to you largely intact. Click here or on the picture to find out more about this wonderful family dog.

Springer Spaniel

If you like being outdoors this is the dog to put the ‘spring’ into your step. These hardy, athletic and obedient dogs are highly trainable. But they will fully exploit their heart-melting almond eyes for praise and treats. Click here or on the picture to find out more about this sporty breed.

Weimaraner

This beautiful dog, known as the ‘grey ghost’ is a hauntingly beautiful animal who absolutely excels in training and at any form of obedience work. They have a fun-loving and gregarious temperament making for a devoted and faithful family pet. Click here or on the picture for more information.

The Toy Group

Overview

A fantastic array of cute canines who open the wonderful world of dog ownership to a wider audience including those without much space or who cannot offer plentiful exercise. Click here or on the picture to discover more.

Chihuahua

The smallest of dog breeds evidences that the most wonderful things do come in little packages. This dog is the most intelligent in the Toy Group and highly trainable making it another great choice for first-time dog owners. Click here or on the picture to find out more.

Pomeranian

A charmingly cute, foxlike little dog who makes a wonderfully low-maintenance pet. Be aware that this little Spitz likes to run laps as much as sit in laps, so they are at the athletic end of the Toy Group. Queen Victoria was a huge fan and these sprightly pint-sized balls of energy remain hugely popular today. Click here or on the picture to find out more.

Pug

The popular little Pug is actually a Titan in the Toy Group. Not only is this breed the biggest Toy but also reported as a canine champion beggar of the dog world in exploiting its cuteness ruthlessly. Click here or on the picture to find out more.

Shih Tzu

This endearing little dog has mystical origins in the hills of Tibet as companion dogs to the Buddhist monks.
It was not long before this ‘lion-dog’, claimed to be a holy dog, became sought-after for its striking looks and winsome personality by no less than the Emperors of China. Click here or on the picture to find out more.
Now these popular little dogs are welcomed in more humble dwellings across the western world. With both intelligence and a gentle temperament they make an excellent choice for first-time dog owners.

Toy Poodle

Combining the virtues of smaller Toy Dogs with all the blessings of owning an intelligent and agile Poodle, this breed is a popular choice. A very low maintenance dog bursting with fun and frolics. Click here or on the picture to find out more.

Yorkshire Terrier

This feisty breed truly puts the Terrier into the Toy Group. Loyal, brave and highly trainable it is no wonder that this dog remains very popular. Click here or on the picture to find out more.

Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

This gentle and amiable little Spaniel deserves its popularity. A perfect companion for a family or those who live alone, this joyous little dog will never fail to bring a smile to your face. Click here or on the picture to find out more.

The Terrier Group

Overview

These robust little ‘earth-workers’ or diggers have burrowed into our affections and our homes as wonderful pets. Please click here or on the picture for more information.

Airedale Terrier

The ‘King of Terriers’ is both the tallest and most intelligent breed in this group. A sporty, athletic dog who also excels at being a watch-dog. You won’t need a throne for this king, this affectionate canine is very happy with a place on the sofa next to you. Click here or on the picture to find out more.

Border Terrier

This dog certainly ‘borders’ on the impossibly cute. This little Terrier manages to be both laid back and fun. They are also low maintenance, trainable and ideal for the first time dog owner. A valued working dog for two centuries and now an even more treasured family pet. Click here or on the picture to find out more.

Fox Terrier

The foxiest of all Terriers is a bright spark that will light up any home. An intelligent and athletic breed this dog is perfect for all those who love the outdoors. You will dig this dog, but unfortunately he will dig your garden or yard so be sure to protect any prize roses. Click here or on the picture to find out more.

Staffordshire Bull Terrier

The Staffie has left its blood sport past way behind it. This affectionate and human-oriented dog now will only fight to snuggle right up to you on the sofa. This Terrier is a wonderful companion and family dog. Click here or on the picture to find out more.

The Non Sporting Group

Overview

Not really a coherent group but a catch-all. But here we have an absolute treasure trove of wonderful and iconic breeds.

Boston Terrier

The tuxedoed ‘American Gentleman’ is always dressed to impress. This amicable, easy-going little fellow makes for a wonderful companion and with moderate exercise and space requirements is ideal for city living. Click here or on the picture to find out more.

Bulldog

The Bulldog is not the national dog of Britain for nothing. It’s bloody past is long forgotten and these dogs are now celebrated for their relaxed temperament laced with a cheeky sense of fun. They do drool, but every bejeweled string of slobber is fully of puppy love for their owners. A wonderful dog for the family or singleton who does not demand much exercise. Click here or on the picture to find out more.

Dalmatian

The dapper Dalmatian is an energetic dog who first trots into our history running alongside and protecting carriages and later as canine chaperones of the Fire Carriages in the states. An affectionate dog who makes a family pet even if its behavior, like its coat, is not always spotless. Click here or on the picture for more information.

French Bulldog

Otherwises known as ‘the Clown Dog’ this very popular little breed is cute, fun and renowned for its cheeky antics. Ideal for apartment-living, these dogs do have a stubborn streak. But these wrinkles in their behavior, if not their faces, can be ironed out with consistent training. Click here or on the picture for more information.

Fluffy Frenchie

A delightfully fluffy variation on the theme of the French Bulldog. This rare dog is pure bred but currently falls foul of kennel club standards. But this does not make it any less highly prized. The long haired gene comes from early Terrier influences that resurface in some French Bulldogs. Click here or on the picture to find out more.

Poodle

It is little wonder that the Poodle has become the founding dog for so many designer breeds. Its combination of physical agility and acute intelligence are combined that with an affectionate temperament and real zest for life. The Poodle the sportiest dog that has ever been labelled Non-Sporting and a great dog for the first-time owner. Click here or on the picture to find out more.

The Herding Group

Overview

Intelligent, obedient and versatile this group contains some very clever canines who are also starlets in the popularity rankings. Click here or on the picture to find out more.

Australian Shepherd

The Australian Shepherd is a high-energy dog that just loves to be kept working. This breed is highly intelligent and is celebrated for its versatility and reliability as a working dog. As a pet the Australian Shepherd would suit an experienced owner willing to invest time in training and stimulating this dog. Also any owner would need to be active as this dog requires a very high amount of exercise. Click here or on the picture to find out more.

Border Collie

This dog really does have the look and as a herder was able to control sheep with a glance. Reportedly the most intelligent of breeds this Collie is hyper-trainable but more suited to the experienced owner who can this dog all the stimulation and exercise necessary to keep this clever canine happy. Click here or on the picture to find out more.

German Shepherd

The German Shepherd has been dubbed the king of canines. Wither intelligence, capability and a very high level of obedience it is little surprise that they are ubiquitous in services across the world. But the GSD has a balanced temperament making it ideal for owners prepared to put in the time with training and exercise. Click here or on the picture to find out more

Old English Sheepdog

The Old English Sheepdog is a loyal friend in good times and bad. They are highly empathetic and absolutely dote on their human ‘pack’. These dogs are large in body but absolutely huge in personality. They are great fun and love to play. But could also be labelled the practical jokers of the dog world. But they have a serious side and also make excellent watch-dogs. Click here or on the picture to find out more.

Pembrokeshire Welsh Corgi

The Pembrokeshire Welsh Corgi is an ancient herding breed. Although short in the leg, this dog is big on popularity and finds itself the most cherished breed in royal circles in the United Kingdom.
This Corgi also has a huge personality and many of the breed have in recent times been the canine darling of social media. Claimed to be the gift of Welsh fairies, this dog has since enchanted many and remains a deservedly popular family pet. Click here or on the picture to find out more.

Belgian Malinois

The Belgian Malinois is both quick on paws and in mind. This dog has both unbelievable agility and pace but is also hyper-trainable and very intelligent. A super athlete of the canine world the Mali is currently enjoying a surge of popularity also in the home.
But be aware that this dog will only suit very active owners. This dog will need as much training, play and exercise that you can throw at it (literally in terms of a ball or Frisbee). But with this in place, this dog will make a devotedly loyal companion. Click here or on the picture to find out more.

Other Breed Related Information

What is a Pit Bull?

What do we mean by the term ‘Pit Bull’? And why are all these dogs also referred to as ‘bully dogs’. Here we explain all, and consider the troubled past of a dog who has been named on the one had a ferocious fighting dog and on the other a ‘nanny dog’ as a trustworthy protector of the children in the family. Click here or on the picture to find out more.