Tibetan Spaniel

This very old breed, kept mainly in monasteries and cherished by the Dalai Lamas, is believed to share an ancestor with the Pekingese, Tibetan spaniels traditionally watched over villages below monasteries and warned their watchdog partners, the Tibetan mastiffs, about human or animal intruders.

One owner says, “My dog knows to step back and observe the situation. When I come home, he first sits and look at me as if to study me. He never jumps at me blindly like other dogs. Only when I tell him to come, he comes to me. He is always trying to read my lips, and never demands his ways.” These intelligent, cheerful, active dogs require frequent exercise but are quite at home inside and outside; they remain excellent watchdog.

Coat care is simple; to keep hair from entangling, brush the coat two or three times a week.

Origin: Tibet
Size: (male) Height about 10 inches; weight 9-16 pounds
(female) same
Coat: Silky; featherings on ears, legs, and tail. Colors include golden, black, white, sand, and any other solid colors, as well as combinations.

Shiba Inu

Newborn shiba inu puppies have dark coats and look like raccoons or fox cubs, but as they grow older, their color lightens; the darker the initial clors are, the more beautiful red they will turn. After about 1 month, their ears stand and their tails become firm. Also, their character settles early, so training should begin at about 3 months.

The most common native breed in Japan, the archetypal shiba inu, a hound dog developed to chase birds and small animals, is well suited for the country’s climate. Shiba derives from either the Japanese term for brushwood, the bark of which their coat resembles in color, or an archaic word meaning “a small thing.” (Inu means “dog”.)

This breed is distinguished by its curled or sickle tail and triangular pricked ears. These active, intelligent, brave, simple, and noble dogs, designated as a natural treasure in Japan in 1937, require plenty of exercise.

Origin: Japan
Size: (male) Height 15-17 inches; weight about 20 pounds
(female) Height 14-15 inches; weight about 18 pounds
Coat: Straight and hard; undercoat is soft and dense. Coat colors come in red, black peppering, red peppering, black, and liver; white markings on lower muzzle.

Shar Pei

The unique baggy wrinkles of this unusual breed (its name, in Chinese, means “hanging skin” or “sand skin”) are actually more pronounced on puppies; as they grow, the wrinkles will stretch and diminish slightly.

In 1978, this obscure breed became known worldwide when it was introduced in the Guinness Book of Records as the world’s rarest dog. Their wrinkled bodies, small ears, deep set eyes, and black-blue tongues also make them one of the most distinctive-looking breed, but their origins are modest. Long ago, in Guangdong, China, they were used as hound dogs, farmyard watchdog, fighting dogs, and, sometimes, even food. Their wrinkles were developed to make it difficult for them to be injured fatally when they were bitten during dogfights, and their deep set eyes are also a protective feature. They used to be larger, weighing about twice as much as they typically do now, and one was said to weigh 156 pounds.

These imposing, dignified, independent, and somewhat stubborn dogs are affectionate to their owners but wary of other people and tend to dislike living with other dogs. They require lots of exercise.

Although the coat, which feels bristly or sandy, is deeply wrinkled, it is short and therefore easy to care for. Occasional massages with a brush or towel are sufficient, but the spaces between the wrinkles must be cleaned carefully.

Origin: China
Size: (male) Height 18-20 inches; weight 40-51 pounds
(female) Height 16-18 inches; weight 36-44 pounds
Coat: Short, straight, and hard. Colors include red, black, fawn, cream, and white.

Schipperke

In the 19^th century Belgium, schipperkes (Flemish for “little skippers”), developed by miniaturizing black sheepdogs called Leauvenaars-considered the ancestor of the Belgian sheepdog (Groenendael) as well-served as mascots for barges traveling on the canals between Brussels and Antwerp.

Their tails were said to be docked to make it easier for them to move around on barges, although a traditional story tell how the custom derived from a man who cut his schipperke’s tail off because the dog stole food.

They have curious dark eyes, mobile ears, and no tail. One owner says, “People often take these puppies for animals other than dogs.”

These winsome, fawning, active dogs are wary toward strangers, so they make good watchdog. “These dogs are very sensitive to noises,” one owner comments, “I have never seen them fast asleep.”

Their water-repellent coat needs only occasional brushing, although they lose a lot of hair during the shedding period and require more frequent care; also, watch for skin conditions.

Origin: Belgium
Size: (male) Height about 12 inches; weight about 18 pounds
(female) same
Coat: Rich but somewhat hard; undercoat is soft and dense; longer capelike hair behind neck. Black coats are standard, but any solid colors are acceptable.

Poodle

The poodle puppy’s coat color changes as it grows, and it takes about two years before it acquires its full coat.

The origin of this very old breed, which now consists of standard, miniature, and toy varieties, is not certain, but it most likely came from Germany; the type derives from Pudel (German, “to splash in water”). It is also known as the French poodle, a name earned because achieved fame as elegant dogs in France.

Despite their affected air, they were originally used as retrievers in watery areas; their distinctive coat trimming pattern was designed to make it easier for them to swim and to protect their hearts, and the leg tufts served as makeshift fins and buoys. Recently, low-maintenance trimming that make them look like teddy bears has increased the popularity of the two smaller varieties.

Intelligent and quick to learn, these dogs were long appreciated as stars in French dog playhouses and traveling circuses, and they continue to be circus stars. Among their more mundane tasks were pulling milk carts in Germany, and, during World War II, carrying supplies and messages. Among this breed’s many fans throughout history was Beethoven, who composed music in memory of his beloved poodle.

Small poodle are excitable, but because they are generally quiet and peaceful, they are suitable for families with children.

These dogs don’t shed, but their hair grows fast, requiring regular trimming and careful brushing.

Origin: Central Europe
Size: Standard (male) Height about 15 inches or more; weight 46-71 pounds
(female) same

Miniature (male) Height 11-15 inches; weight 7-13 pounds
(female) same

Toy (male) Height 10 inches or less; weight 4-7 pounds
(female) same

Coat: Rich, dense, and curly or corded. Colors include black, white, apricot, blue, and cream; solid colors are ideal.

Lhasa Apso

This 2000 year-old breed’s homeland is the foothills of the Himalayas. Believed to ward off evil spirits and bring good luck, these dogs were kept by priests and nobleman in Lhasa, home of Lama monasteries. The breed name is said to derive from the Tibetan phrase Lhasa apso seng kye, which means “a leonine dog from Lhasa that barks well.” Another interpretation translates the phrase to “a leonine dog from Lhasa that is as hairy as a goat” (apso means “goat”).

Although these dogs were for many years not allowed out of the region, the Dalai Lamas used to make an exception and offer male dogs to the Chinese emperors. They were not kept to entertain local or far-flung noblemen, however. From way back, these intelligent, wary, and sharp of hearing dogs guarded monasteries and palaces.

One owner says, “When my dog was a puppy, he was very quiet, and only on rare occasions did he bleat in a faint voice, but once he was grown up, he changed. A soon as he senses something suspicious, he barks loud and continuously.” And, although Lhasa apsos are cheerful and love to play with people, they are also proud. One owner says, “They don’t like to be ordered around.” They are active dogs, but extensive exercise is not necessary.

Careful daily brushing is indispensable to maintain a shiny, tangle-free coat, and they should be groomed more extensively once or twice a week.

Origin: Tibet
Size: (male) Height 10-11 inches; weight about 16 pounds
(female) Height 9-10 inches; weight about 13 pounds
Coat: Long, straight, and hard; undercoat is moderate and dense. Colors include gold, sand, black, honey, grizzle, and smoke.

French Bulldog

The French bulldog’s trademark large, batlike ears lie flat on newborn puppies, but they cycle through standing and drooping several times before they finally prick up for good.

Excessive exercise should be avoided until puppies are grown.

Although the English bulldog is widely believed to be this breed’s ancestor, opinion is divided as to whether the French bulldog was bred from small toy-type dogs of the former breed brought by British immigrants to northern France during the second half of the 19^th century or whether French bulldogs are an older breed that were already being used for dogfighting in the 1600s. Besides their ears, which were once allowed to prick up or to be half bent, their domed head is the breed’s distinguishing feature.

These dogs are well loved for their misleadingly imposing appearance; they are actually gentle, quiet, intelligent dogs that don’t bark unnecessarily. However, because of their short muzzles, they are known to snore. This characteristic also makes them sensitive to heat, and, because of their unusually large heads, litters are delivered by cesarean section.

Their short coats generally need little care, except during the shedding season, when frequent brushing is needed; also, check for skin conditions. In addition, the ears, eyes, nose, and muzzle need to be cleaned, and their nails should be clipped regularly.

Origin: France
Size: (male) Height about 12 inches; weight 18-22 pounds
(female) same
Coat: Short and glossy. Colors include dark brindle, brindle and white, and fawn.

Dalmatian

Newborn Dalmatian puppies are snow white; the trademark spots of this breed appear, little by little, within 10-14 days. The color, shape, size, and number of the spots are unpredictable.

These dogs were first found in the Balkan province from which they take their name, but records and stories about dogs that resemble this breed are found in many places in Europe and western Asia. They were said to have an uncanny ability to calm horses, and they used to be called coach dogs and carriage dogs, from the era in which they escorted horse drawn vehicles (including fire wagons and, more recently, fire trucks, leading to their traditional role as firehouse mascots), and were also, based on their appearance, nicknamed spotted dogs and plum-pudding dogs.

Dalmatians have also worked as guard dogs, circus dogs, military dogs, farmyard watchdog, and bird hounds, scent hounds, and hound dogs, as well as in other roles. Later, these dog increasingly became household pets after they were popularized by the classic children’s novel 101 Dalmatians and its animated and live film adaptations.

Dogs of this peaceful, intelligent breed are friendly to their owners but aloof toward other people. They make good watchdogs, but they need long exercise sessions.

Their coat are very easy to care for, but watch for allergic dermatitis, or inflammation of the skin.

Origin: Croatia
Size: (male) Height 23-24 inches; weight 49-64 pounds
(female) Height 22-23 inches; weight 49-55 pounds
Coat: Short, hard, and dense. Color is pure white, with black or liver spots.

Chow chow

Chow chow puppies, resembling bear cubs, require little effort. One owner says, “They are quiet and not mischievous. They don’t insist on being played with. Adult dogs are the same. They are really fuss free.”

This breed’s history is reputated to go back 3000 years, but concrete information is available only from about 150 B.C. Theories about its origin tend to emphasize the breed’s use as a food source, but they also were known to work as hound dogs, sled dogs, and guard dogs. Several theories persist about the origin of their breed name.

The saintly, unperturbed nature of dogs of this breed is matched by their loyalty to their owners, although they are never given to fawning. One owner says, “Even if other dogs try to pick a fight, these dogs ignore them.” However, they are fearless and highly protective, although they rarely bark.

When mature, they gain quite a bit of weight and grow featherings around their neck like a lion’s mane. Black chow chows look like hairy bears, and, with their blue-black tongues, their appearance is striking.

Their straight, stiltlike hind legs make them slow, rather clumsy manners, supposedly a legacy of their use as stock. They do enjoy exercise, however, although they are sensitive to heat.

Brushing every other day is sufficient, except during the shedding season. Also, dogs with deep-set eyes may have trouble with ingrown eyelashes.

Origin: China
Size: (male) Height 19-22 inches; weight 49-67 pounds
(female) Height 18-20 inches; weight 36-56 pounds
Coat: Rough and dense; undercoat is woolly. Colors include red, cream, fawn, black, and blue.

Bulldog

From 1150 to 1815, when dogfighting was banned in England, these dogs were employed in bullbaiting, hence their name. Bred for their suitability for this cruel sport of attacking tethered bulls and giving them a final mortal bite on the nose, dogs of this breed have a squashed face that enabled them to breathe while biting the bull and a compact, muscular body to complement their combative spirit and ferocity. The legacy of this genetic engineering also includes snoring and drooling, and, because newborn bulldog puppies’ head are so large, they are usually delivered by cesarean section.

The bulldog, however, has since become a cheerful, friendly, expressive, peaceful and obedient dog and is very popular as an intelligent and winsome household pet.

Because of their short muzzles, they cannot control their body temperature well and are sensitive to heat. Also, their food intake should be monitored.

Coat care is simple, but keeping these dogs clean requires a little effort; Wipe between their wrinkles, and regularly clean their eyes, ears, and muzzles.

Origin: United Kingdom
Size: (male) Height 12-16 inches; weight about 56 pounds
(female) Height 12-16 inches; weight 51 pounds
Coat: Short and dense. Colors include red brindle and other brindle, as well as solid colors such as white, red, fawn, and fallow, and white-and-red and white-and-black mixtures.

Boston Terrier

Newborn Boston terrier puppies are born with their ears flat against their heads. Sooner or later, depending on the ears’ size and thickness, they will prick halfway up, then warp backward, bend forward, and finally stand up straight. Typical dogs with undershot mouths, these puppies have difficulty nursing and, initially, eating solid food, and they tend to snore until they are older.

Although most terriers originated in the United Kingdom, this breed was bred in its namesake city in the United States during the second half of the 19^th century by crossbreeding the English bulldog with the white English terrier. Larger at first, they were reduced in size by being crossbred with the French bulldog. Because this dog’s coat suggests a tuxedo wearing canine, the breed is sometimes referred to as the “American gentleman dog.”

Boston terriers are especially mischievous, but they are affectionate, and one owner says, “They are good at winning the hearts and minds of people.” A brief daily session of exercise is necessary.

Their short, glossy coat requires only occasional wiping with a rough cloth.

Origin: United States
Size: (male) Height 10-16 inches; weight 11-24 pounds
(female) same
Coat: Short and silky. Color is ideally brindle, with white markings, but black with white markings is permissible.

Bichon fries

Newborn puppies are all white, with pink noses and short coats, but their noses gradually turn black and their coats grow long and fluffy after up to 2 years. After 8 months, the coat develops a double layer, which tends to form hair balls.

These dogs are said to have been discovered by 14^th-century Italian sailors on Tenerife in the Canary Island, off the northwest coast of Africa, from which they were brought back to Europe. In France in the 1500s, these dogs were downsized and became popular accessories among French and Italian noblewomen, who perfumed them and decorated them with ribbons, calling them “white lappers,” (Their name is a shortened translation, from French, of “curly-haired lapdog.”)

Other dogs in the Mediterranean based bichon (French, “lapdog”) group, which is closely related to the poodle, are the Maltese and the less well-known Bolonais and Havanais, all of which are said be partly descended from the barbet and the water spaniel.

Perhaps because of their lapdog legacy, dogs of this cheerful breed interact well with people. One owner says, “They have a natural genius for fawning.” They are ideal indoor dogs, as they don’t bark unnecessarily, have almost no canine odor, and lose little hair.

The bichon fries became popular worldwide after a unique coat-trimming style, created a few decades ago in the United States, was adopted, giving it the appearance of carrying cotton candy on its head.

Frequent care is require to maintain the bichon frise’s elegant coat.

Origin: France
Size: (male) Height 10-12 inches; weight 7-11 pounds
(female) same
Coat: Long, curly, and silky; undercoat is soft. Colors include white, cream, and apricot; slight gray on ears and body is permissible.

Standard Schnauzer

Standard schnauzer puppies become independent quite early, their trademark whiskers develop late.

This breed, the original of the three schnauzer varieties, was long used to catch rats and guard farmyard in its place of origin, but no information about it predates the 14^th century. Standard schnauzer also have a good reputation as waterfowl hounds, and their talent as sheepdog is highly valued.

These dogs are intelligent, excellent in judgment, and highly trainable, enjoying both physical and mental exercise, although one breeder says, “This bred seems to display their good nature better when they are raised indoors rather than outdoors.” One owner comments, “As they grow older, they become wiser. They seem to accumulate knowledge.” They’re undaunted by height and have excellent spring to their leaps.

Daily combing, especially of the feathering on the legs and abdomen, and quarterly trimming are required, and stripping is important.

Origin: Germany
Size: (male) Height 18-20 inches; weight 27-40 pounds
(female) Height 17-19 inches; weight 22-33 pounds
Coat: Short and wiry; colors include salt-and-pepper, and black.

Siberian Husky

Facial markings are more distinct on puppies, but, by about 4-5 months, they are reduced to eyeglass-type rims and disappear at about 1 year.

These dogs, less powerful but faster than the Alaskan Malamute, were developed from the sled dogs of the Chukchi peoples of northeast Asia. Their name comes from the same word that became Eskimo, though it’s alternatively said to derive from their throty howling. Dense hair between their toes gives them traction, so they are able to grab snowy and icy surface.

Though these modestly friendly dogs are less popular than they used to be, they make good pets for active people. One owner says, “They don’t become too close to you. They are rather cool and blunt, but they love people and are caring.”

Because of their artic origin, huskies are nearly impervious to cold and sensitive to heat. They require lots of exercise; because they tend to wander, run them on a leash, and, if possible, occasionally let them pull a sled or a cart. A smaller, pointy-faced variety has appeared, but, due to careless breeding, it tends to have character problems.

Their thick, soft coat requires frequent brushing and combing, especially during the shedding period, when they lose a lot of hair.

Origin: Russia
Size: (male) Height 21-24 inches ; weight 44-60 pounds
(female) Height 20-22 inches ; weight 35-51 pounds
Coat: Rich and straight; undercoat is soft and fluffy. As long as white is mixed, any colors are accepted; distinctive markings appear on head and face.

Samoyed

These dogs, long used by the aboriginal Samoyeds on the tundras of Siberia as watchdogs and sled dogs, were employed on the Scott and Amundsen Antarctic expeditions.

Dogs of this breed (first registered as the Samoyede, though the name was later revised to Samoyed), are considered to be gifts from the angels, and the upturned corners of their mouths give these friendly dogs, nicknamed Sammy or Sam, an infectiously happy look.

One owner says, “They try to be babied and loved even by someone they’ve just met for the first time. They may follow anyone.” Another owner comments, “These dogs don’t care about little things. They are really carefree.”

Sable or black-and-white coats, which look especially beautiful against a snowy background, were popular once, but once they were introduced to England, their coat colors were restricted to pure white, biscuit, and cream.

The hairy, padded toes of these snow-loving dogs spread so they can grip snowy ground, and they protect their muzzles with their bushy tails to protect them from the cold air when they sleep. They also like to play in water year-round, but they are sensitive to heat.

Frequent brushing and combing are necessary, especially during the shedding seasons.

Origin: Russia
Size: (male) Height 21-28 inches ; weight 56-71 pounds
(female) Height 19-21 inches ; weight 40-56 pounds
Coat: Long and straight; undercoat is soft and dense. Colors include pure white, cream, and biscuit.

Saint Bernard

The Saint Bernard, the national dog of Switzerland and the companion dog of old Alm-Uncle in Johanna Spyri’s classic children’s novel, Heidi, is said to be the descended partially from the Tibetan mastiff.

For about 300 years, these dogs, at the time smaller and leaner and with shorter hair, lived in the monastery of Saint Bernard on the Italian-Swiss border. Trained as rescue dogs, they used their acute sense of smell to find people lost in the mountains and their strength to pull these weak or injured travelers on sleds in the snow; during this period, they were credited with saving more 2000 people.

This breed, although it takes a backseat to the Irish wolfhound as far as height is concerned (despite one specimen that stood 53 inches), is the heaviest in the world. Their large paws and feet are equipped with strong toes that bend upward to help keep them from slipping on snow and ice. Bred for alpine conditions (they are said to be able to sense approaching avalanches and storms), they are sensitive to heat.

Saint Bernard must be trained carefully from puppyhood so that they can be controlled easily despite their size. As one breeder says, “From the first day you take them out for a walk, it is important not to let them walk ahead of you.

Frequent brushing is required, as well as cleaning of their pendant ears, and their muzzles need to be wiped occasionally.

Origin: Switzerland
Size: (male) Height at least 28 inches; weight about 167 pounds
(female) Height at least 26 inches; weight about 147 pounds
Coat: Long and short varieties. Colors include red with white, white with red, variations of red, and brindle, white markings on mask, blaze, collar, chest, and legs.

Rottweiler

Large bone rottweiler puppies look like adult dogs that have been down-sized and wadded up. Also, contrary to their innocent looks, these puppies can be a handful.

The rottweiler’s ancestor are dogs that herded cows to feed Roman soldier and supported the legion in their expeditions through Europe. The breed was later developed to handle heavy physical labor by butcher and cattle merchants in Rottweil, Germany, which was then thriving as a border market town.

As donkeys took over their cargo-handling work, these dogs lost their value and became almost extinct. However, their talent and undaunted courage were recognized, and they made a comeback as a police dogs. Even now, they are tough and tenacious hard workers that can survive on a frugal diet, but they have become popular as household pets.

Reliable, hardworking rottweilers nevertheless require training to enhance their natural qualities. They have strong self-protective instincts and are wary around other dogs, so they must be socialized. Female tend to be more obedient and less independent and therefore easier to handle.

Owners must be physically strong to control the large, powerful males, and it is best to have only one dog in a household. Also they need daily vigorous exercise.

Origin: Germany
Size: (male) Height 24-28 inches; weight about 116 pounds
(female) Height 22-26 inches; weight about 100 pounds
Coat: Hard, dense, short. Colors are black and tan, with tan markings above eyes and on muzzle and cheeks, as well as on chest and at fixed places on legs.

Newfoundland

Newborn Newfoundland puppies, docile and teddy-bearish, weigh as much as 21-29 ounces, and their weight exceeds 22 pounds by about 2 months. Later, however, they grow slowly, taking about 2 years to fully mature.

Although the origin and lineage of these dogs is uncertain, they long helped fishermen and pulled freight carts on the namesake Canadian island, and they are also renowned as rescue dogs for disasters at sea.

These excellent swimmers, bred to work in and around cold ocean waters, are unfazed by cold water or weather. They have a waterproof double coat and especially large paws and feet for producing strong strokes, and the thick skin between their toes functions as a web.

Just like literature’s best-known Newfoundland, Nana, from J. M. Barrie’s Peter Pan, these dogs make good playmates for children, but when they frolic too much, they can be a handful. Another artistic contribution to their popularity is a portrait of a Newfoundland with a black-and-white coat by 19^th-century artist Sir Henry Edwin Landseer; this coat, named after the painter, has since then became popular.

These fast, powerful dogs are nevertheless sensitive to heat and prone to droll and snore.

Newfoundlands shed a lot, and their thick coat must be brushed often. After water play, it should be dried.

Origin: Canada
Size: (male) Height about 28 inches; weight 131-151 pounds
(female) Height about 26 inches; weight 100-120 pounds
Coat: Flat, dense. Colors include black, brown, and landseer (black and white).

Leonberger

These fluffy Newfoundland-like puppies start out very small but grow swiftly.

Nineteenth-century Leonberg, Germany, town councilor Heinrich Essig, a devoted dog breeder, wished to develop a breed resembling the lion depicted in the town emblem. Ultimately, the breed was created by mating a Newfoundland and a Saint Bernard kept in the namesake monastery, and then a dog from that litter was bred to a Great Pyrenees.

These leonine dogs were sold to world leaders such as Napoleon III and Otto von Bismark, and eventually they spread out, albeit thinly, all over the world. After World War I, however, only five Leonbergers were alive, but they were treasured, and effort were made to multiply the breed. World War II deal another blow to the number of these dogs, however, and only 8 survived. It took another 25 years to revive the breed.

These tranquil, obedient dogs seldom bark, love to be around people, and are good with children. Nonetheless, they can become too powerful to control, so good training is essential. They need lots of exercise.

Their gorgeous, water-repellent coat (they have webbed toes and are excellent swimmers) requires daily brushing, especially during the shedding season, when dead hair should be carefully removed.

Origin: Germany
Size: (male) Height 30-32 inches; weight about 89 pounds
(female) same
Coat: Long and flat; undercoat is dense. Rich feathering on tail. Colors include lion gold, red, reddish brown, sand (fawn cream), and combination of these colors; mask is black.

Great Pyrenees

Fluffy Great Pyrenees puppies, resembling rolling snowballs (it is said “they have brought life to the snowdrifts of the Pyrenees”), are cheerful and active but very cautious. At birth, they weigh 21-29 ounces; by 1 month, their weight increases tenfold, and by 6 months it is 5 times larger than that.

Images of dogs closely resembling this breed are found in the ruins of the European Bronze Age (17^th-10^th centuries B.C.) and among Babylonian works of art. It is hard to imagine that these tranquil, tender-looking dogs, with their beautiful white coats, have such a venerable, vigorous history, but armed with spiked iron collars, they long reigned as invincible protectors of sheep, warding off not only wolves, bears and wild dogs but also rustlers in the Pyrenees Mountains, on the Spanish-French border.

There have been many heroic stories about Great Pyrenees throughout the centuries, but it was not until the reign of Louis XVII in the late 18^th century that this breed won special favor with the French royal family.

They are willful dogs, though. As one owner says, “When he is not satisfied, he will come to me to complain. He doesn’t care that I’m his owner. He is like a man in a Great Pyrenees’ coat.”

Brushing every few days is sufficient, except when extra effort is required during the shedding season; their hair doesn’t tangle.

Origin: France and Spain
Size: (male) Height 31-32 inches; weight 111-133 pounds
(female) Height 26-30 inches; weight 100-122 pounds
Coat: Thick, slightly wavy. Colors on undercoat are white, dark brown on white, and gray and tan on white.

Great Dane

Great Dane puppies undergo a rapid and drastic transformation from kitten size newborn to calf-size dogs, but their bones and muscles are slow to mature, so take care not to exercise them excessively when they are young.

This breed was developed by crossbreeding the boarhound-named for its aggressive quarry-with the Tibetan mastiff, the Old English mastiff, and the greyhound, retaining the dignity of the fist two breeds and the elegance of the latter one, but the detail of its origins are unknown. The breed name derives from the United Kingdom, when one of several French names for it, grand danos (“big Danish”) was slightly modified in the translation.

This expressive breed, called the “Apollo of dogs,” appears to be unapproachably imposing, but one owner says, “They are a little stubborn, fairly delicate, and shy. They love to be babied.” Nonetheless, they are friendly only to their owners.

Although these quick-learning dogs are gentle giant, they are powerful, and owners of this breed should train them well from puppyhood. Also, note that they require not only a great deal of time (and space) for exercise but also a prodigious amount of food.

As their coat is short, it is easy to care for; an occasional brushing is sufficient.

Origin: Germany
Size: (male) Height 31-32 inches; weight 120-144 pounds
(female) Height 28-30 inches; weight 100-122 pounds
Coat: Short and glossy. Colors include brindle, fawn, blue, black, and harlequin (black patches)

Giant Schnauzer

This breed is a jumbo size version of the standard schnauzer whose height is about twice that of the miniature schnauzer, was bred to herd cows and other large animals. In its place of origin, this breed once referred to as the Munchener (German, “from Munich”).

To increase this breed’s size, it was crossbreed with such large dogs as the Great Dane, the rottweiler, the Bouvier des Flandres, and the local sheepdog. These intelligent dogs worked as police dogs in Japan before World War II

Although there is nothing flashy about these simple, sturdy dogs, their form is beautiful and they are very amicable.

Aside from size, the standards for this breed are almost the same as those for the standard schnauzer. The coat colors are also the same, but black and tan are also accepted for the great schnauzer.

Daily Brushing and combing and regular trimming are necessary, and dead hair and hair with split ends must be stripped.

Origin: Germany
Size: (male) Height 26-28 inches; weight 76-96 pounds
(female) Height 24-26 inches; weight 67-89 pounds
Coat: Hard and wiry; hair on back stands up slightly. Colors include salt-and-pepper, black, and black and tan, white chest markings permissible.

Dogo Argentino

At birth, dogo Argentino puppies are white, but patterns emerge in their coats as they mature. Precociously independent and willful from a young age, these puppies must undergo rigorous training. Also, though rough play with their siblings is natural, they like to gnaw on things.

This very rare dog looks, from a distance, something like a white Labrador retriever. This breed, whose name is Spanish for “Argentine bulldog,” was created by two young brothers named Antonio Nores and Augustin Martinez by crossbreeding their earlier creation, the Cordoba fighting dog, with a variety of breeds to incorporate many qualities into one dog, including pointers (sharp sense of smell), Irish wolfhounds (sense), bull terriers (courage), Spanish mastiffs (strength), Great Dane (mass), And Great Pyrenees (coat). The were used to hunt aggressive big game such as pumas, jaguars, and wild boars. One owner says of the dog of this breed, “Dressed in a white satin coat, they have hearts of gold in bodies of steel.”

Prospective owners should have the strength, determination, and skill to keep this powerful dogs under control. Also, although they can endure great heat, they are sensitive to cold.

Origin: Argentine
Size: (male) Height 24-28 inches
(female) same
Coat: Short and smooth. Color is white.

Doberman Pinscher

Towards the end of the 19^th century, when dog shows were first held and breed improvement was popular, a German magistrate named Ludwig Doberman, who also worked as a night guard and dog warden, developed this breed as a guard dog, using the German pinscher as the base stock and crossbreeding with the rottweiler, the Great Dane, the German shorthaired pointer, the weimaraner, the Manchester terrier, the dachshund, and other breed.

These dogs became popular after they were widely used as army dogs in World War 1. Today, in addition to still being employed by the military, they serve as guard dogs, watching dogs, and police dogs but are also popular as household pets.

Because of the Dobermans fierce look and fearsome reputation, its presence alone has tremendous impact and is often enough to scare intruders away. One owner describes the breed’s charm by saying, “They are bold and delicate at the same time. They are insightful, docile and one track minded.”

Although they are both very wary and courageous, they are also obedient to their owners. This is a fitting breed for both companionship and protection. However, obedience training needs to be given while they are puppies, they should be socialized around humans and other dogs, and owners of these dogs should have enough physical strength and skill to control them. They require much exercise.

The Doberman’s short coat is very easy to care for; massage it with a cloth or a soft brush.

Origin: Germany
Size: (male) Height 26-28 inches ; weight 71-76 pounds
(female) Height 24-26 inches ; weight 60-64 pounds
Coat: Short and straight. Colors include black, brown, blue, and Isabella (fawn), with rust tan markings.

Bullmastiff

Bred in England in the second half of the 19^thcentury from the Old English mastiff and the bulldog, these large, powerful dogs-speedier and more aggressive than the former but not as savage as the latter-were called “gamekeeper’s night dogs.” Their job was to find and chase poachers and hold them down until the gamekeeper caught in.

These natural watchdogs look like canine tanks, but they are gentle and obedient. Because of their size and strength, however, strict obedience training is required to keep them under control. Also, they can be wary and aggressive, requiring experience and skill to handle them. They should be exposed frequently to people and other dogs.

Plenty of exercise is necessary, but, despite their short coat, they are sensitive to heat because of their size.

Their short coat is very easy to care for, an occasional massage with a cloth or a soft brush is sufficient. Nails should be clipped regularly, and their pendant ears require regular cleaning.

Origin: United Kingdom
Size: (male) Height 26-28 inches ; weight 111-133 pounds
(female) Height 24-26 inches ; weight 100-120 pounds
Coat: Rough, undercoat is short and dense. Colors include silver, apricot, fawn, dark fawn, and brindle. Muzzle, nose, ears and around eyes should be dark.

Boxer

This breed was developed as a fighting dog by crossbreeding the Bullenbeisser, which was used to hunt deer, wild boar, and bear in Germany with the bulldog. The name supposedly comes from their unique fighting style, in which they lift up their paws.

Dog of this highly trainable breed have worked as hound dogs, working dogs, army dogs, cattle dogs, guard dogs. Seeing Eye dogs and watchdogs, and some were selected to become the first police dogs in Germany.

With their trim, boxy bodies, chic coat colors and rather odd features, boxers are simultaneously handsome and comical looking. This distinctive look, combined with their expressiveness and good nature, makes them popular as household pets.

These independent, quick learning dogs are basically peaceful and loyal to their owners. Nonetheless owners should recognize that this breed is not only intelligent but also physically strong. It needs frequent exercise and lots of room to run.

Occasional light brushing is sufficient, but their nails must be clipped regularly. Also, they are very sensitive to both hot and cold weather.

Origin: Germany
Size: (male) Height 23-26 inches; weight about 71 pounds
(female) Height 21-24 inches; weight about 60 pounds
Coat: Short and glossy. Colors are variation of fawn; if brindled, stripes must be clear. White markings are permissible, and mask is black

Bernese Mountain Dog

These Bernese mountain dog is one of various breeds of working dogs developed in each mountainous region of Switzerland. This breed, originating near Bern, was said to have been developed by crossbreeding local dog with a type brought to the area by Roman legion. Long used as cattle dogs, working dogs, and guard dogs, they are now popular as household pets as well.

Although these dogs look imposing and are somewhat wary, they are good natured and loyal. As one owner says, “They follow me wherever I go.” They don’t require much exercise, but they enjoy walking or following their owners while they jog or cycle. Their good memories make them ideal rescue dogs.

Normal brushing and occasional shampooing is sufficient; they shed little. However, their pendant ears require regular cleaning.

Origin: Switzerland
Size: (male) Height 26-30 inches; weight 80-107 pounds
(female) Height 23-26 inches; weight 76-91 pounds
Coat: Rich and smooth. Base color is glossy black, with tan marking on eyebrows, cheeks, and legs; chest and digits are white, and face has white blaze.

Alaskan Malamute

Dogs of this breed were used by the Malamute tribe of Alaska to pull sleds and hunt, and the dogs became popular in more temperate climates after Artic explorers employed them as sled dogs. Though Siberian huskies which they resemble, can match them for speed. Alaskan malamutes are the world’s largest and strongest sled dogs

Because of their furry, thickly padded soles, these dogs are referred to as “sled dogs in snowshoes.” Well equipped against extreme cold, they can sleep in snow and ice even when the temperature is well below freezing, and they wrap their thick, curly tails around to muzzles to protect their faces during snowstorms.

Bred to work in teams, malamutes are obedient and friendly with people and other dogs. As one owner says, “They are big and fierce looking, but they have childlike character. They also boast a bottomless vitality.” Another owner comments, “After bicycling alongside a running dog for one or two hours, you’ll notice they are still as full of energy as before you started.” However, note that because of their thick coats, they are sensitive to heat.

Daily brushing is required to keep the coat beautiful. During the shedding season, they lose a lot of hair and require additional grooming.

Origin: United States
Size: (male) Height about 26 inches ; weight about 87 pounds
(female) Height about 23 inches ; weight about 76 pounds
Coat: Rough and thick, undercoat is wooly and water repellent. Colors are a mixture of black, gray, wolf, white, and other. Lower side of abdomen, mask and legs are white. Only white is accepted as a solid color.

Akita

The rather small ears of Akita puppies stand up late, after a repetitive process of pricking up and folding back, they finally stand erect at 3-4 months.

The Akita, designated as a natural treasure in Japan in 1931, is descended from a midsize hound dog bred with other indigenous dogs and fighter dogs in their native northeast Japan. Once called Odate, after a location in the Akita region, they often shared the dog-fighting with the Tosa, another fighter breed.

Efforts to strengthen the breed continued, and they bred with Western dogs such as mastiffs, which resulted in declining number of true Akitas. However, a preservation movement arose during the early 20^th century that began to breed out the Western lineage in an effort to return the breed to its original appearance.

This large, dignified dog has pricked ears and curly tail, and a face thought to be reminiscent of classic Japanese aristocrats. One owner says, “No matter what happens, they don’t react right away, and they check out the situation, remaining calm.” Despite its sedate demeanor, however, the Akitas require frequent exercise.

Dogs of this breed are typically obedient and loyal, but only to their owners. They are friendly enough around strangers, but only if the owner is near, and they are very strong willed, so it is important to build a trusting relationship. One owner says, “When he fails in something, he tends to get very depressed. It requires considerable effort to help him regain confidence.”

The Akita’s thick double coat require daily brushing.

Origin : Japan
Size : (male) Height about 26-28 inches ; weight about 107 pounds
(female) Height about 23-26 inches ; weight about 80 pounds
Coat: Outer coat is hard, undercoat is soft and dense. Coat color comes in red, bridle, peppering and white. All color except white must have white markings on underside.

Yorkshire Terrier

At birth, Yorkshire terrier puppies are as black as coal, with tan markings on their eyebrows, chin, ear tips, chest, and toes, but their colors lighten (and their coat lengthens) as they grow; their final coat pattern is unpredictable until 3 months. Professional breeders shave the hair of Yorkie puppies’ ears to help them prick up so their dark skin can be seen. Also, their physical growth is rather slow, it takes them about 2 years to fully mature.

Because of their long, shiny coats and big, dark eyes, dogs of this breed are referred to as “jewel that move.” However, although they may look like princesses, they have a Cinderella-like past. Around the mid 19^th century, this breed was created by miners and mill workers to exterminate rats in their namesake region. Yorkies quickly surprised people with their beauty, though, and they were soon valued simply as pets.

These intelligent dogs are able to do whatever they are taught, but they are wiliful and may refuse to perform a command. Perhaps because of their terrier blood, they also feel compelled to dig holes in the yard, though they don’t require much exercise. Also despite their size, these dogs are assertive and wary, which makes them good guard dogs. It is important to train them not to bark unnecessarily, however.

Keeping their steel-gray coats shiny and beautiful requires some effort. Their long, silky hair tends to get tangled and form hairballs, making daily brushing necessary. Also, regular professional grooming is ideal.

Origin : United kingdom
Size : (male) Height 6-7 inches ; weight 3-7 pounds
(female) same
Coat : Long, silky, and glossy.
Colors are steel blue on body, tan on chest, and light tan on legs; feathering on head is golden tan. Ears, roots of ears, and masks are darker.

Shih Tzu

Shih tzu puppies, with their fluffy coats, look like stuffed animals that move. After scurrying around busily, they resemble snoring stuffed animals.

These dogs, treasured in the Chinese court, were regarded as holy messengers, and it is said that eunuchs in the Forbidden City strove to create types that the emperors would appreciate. Although Shih tzus were especially cherished by Ming dynasty rulers, many were killed during the Opium War.

In about 1930, some of these dogs were taken to Europe, where they were originally categorized as Lhasa apsos (which, with Pekingese, they are said to be descended from), but, later, the Shih tzu was recognized as an independent breed.

Though these dogs are somewhat stubborn, they are usually very quiet and easygoing. As one owner says, “They often lie relaxed in their favorite place.” They can exercise indoors, but they need occasional outside play. Because puppies’ heads are big in comparison with adult bodies, labor can be difficult.

Frequent brushing is necessary to keep their coats beautiful, and hairpins and rubber bands can keep hair out of their faces. It is also important to keep their ears clean.

Origin : China
Size : (male) Height less than 11 inches ; weight less than 18 pounds (9-16 pounds is ideal)
(female) same
Coat : Long and dense; undercoat is soft.
All colors are permissible.