Breed Guide
Breed Guides
Nutrition • Portions • Training Treats
Australian Shepherd
CLASS: WORKER / HERDER
THE LOWDOWN
An intellectual athlete. The Aussie doesn't just want to be with you; they want to work with you. If you don't provide a job (agility, puzzles, hiking), they will invent one—usually involving home renovation. Ideal for owners who want a shadow, not a couch potato.
Labrador Retriever
CLASS: SPORTING / RETRIEVER
THE LOWDOWN
The world's friendliest dog. A Lab doesn't meet strangers; they just meet friends they haven't licked yet. Built for water, fetching, and family chaos, they require rigorous exercise, or they will express their boredom by eating your drywall.
Golden Retriever
CLASS: SPORTING / COMPANION
THE LOWDOWN
The ultimate optimist. Goldens believe every person is a best friend. They are incredibly patient, eager to please, and gentle, making them the gold standard for family dogs. They shed love (and fur) everywhere.
German Shepherd
CLASS: GUARDIAN / HERDER
THE LOWDOWN
The Swiss Army Knife of dogs. Courageous, intelligent, and fiercely loyal. They don't just want a job; they need a mission. If you don't lead them, they will lead you. They are aloof with strangers but would lay down their life for their family.
French Bulldog
CLASS: COMPANION / CLOWN
THE LOWDOWN
Big personality in a portable package. Stubborn, hilarious, and champion snorers. They require air conditioning, constant adoration, and zero cardio. They are the ultimate roommate who never pays rent but is always down to hang out.
Poodle
CLASS: RETRIEVER / GENIUS
THE LOWDOWN
Don't let the fancy haircut fool you; this is a rugged water dog. The second smartest breed in the world. Athletic, goofy, and hypoallergenic(ish). They can learn anything—including how to open your fridge and judge your life choices.
Bulldog
CLASS: COMPANION / COUCH POTATO
THE LOWDOWN
A bowling ball made of love. They are stubborn, dignified, and mostly horizontal. A Bulldog's idea of high-intensity exercise is moving from the bed to the food bowl. They overheat easily and snore loudly.
Beagle
CLASS: HOUND / DETECTIVE
THE LOWDOWN
A nose with a dog attached to it. Beagles are merry, curious, and notoriously food-motivated. If you drop a crumb, they will find it. Great family dogs, terrible listeners when off-leash.
Rottweiler
CLASS: GUARDIAN / WORKER
THE LOWDOWN
Don't believe the movies; a well-bred Rottie is a calm, confident goofball. They are powerful guardians who think they are lap dogs. They need socialization, but in return, you get a 100lb teddy bear who will check the perimeter of the house before bed.
Pembroke Welsh Corgi
CLASS: HERDING
THE LOWDOWN
Don't let the short legs fool you; this is a big dog in a small package. Bred to herd cattle, Corgis are fearless, vocal, and incredibly smart. They need a "job" or lots of exercise to prevent boredom (and barking). They are affectionate with family but can be bossy without leadership.
Siberian Husky
CLASS: WORKING
THE LOWDOWN
Born to run. Huskies are stunning, athletic endurance dogs that need massive amounts of exercise. They are friendly to everyone (terrible guard dogs) but are famous escape artists. Expect vocal "talking" instead of barking and a lot of fur. Not for the couch potato.
Yorkshire Terrier
CLASS: TOY / TERRIER
THE LOWDOWN
A feisty tomboy in a silk dress. Yorkies were originally ratters in mines, so they have a brave terrier spirit underneath the glamor. They are excellent watchdogs (alert barkers) and devoted lap companions. They need regular grooming but are great for allergy sufferers.
Shih Tzu
CLASS: TOY
THE LOWDOWN
Bred strictly to be a companion to Chinese royalty, the Shih Tzu excels at one thing: love. They are sturdy, happy, and surprisingly solid for a toy breed. They don't hunt or herd; they just want to be with you. Requires daily brushing if keeping the coat long.
Goldendoodle
CLASS: HYBRID
THE LOWDOWN
The ultimate modern family dog. Combining the Golden Retriever's friendliness with the Poodle's smarts (and coat). They are social butterflies who love water, fetch, and people. Coat types vary widely, so don't assume they are 100% hypoallergenic without testing.
West Highland White Terrier
CLASS: TERRIER
THE LOWDOWN
The "Westie" is full of self-esteem. Rugged, white, and hardy, they are less snappy than other terriers but still full of spunk. They love to dig and chase. A confident, happy dog that doesn't need to be carried. Their white coat needs stripping or clipping to stay bright.
Dachshund
CLASS: HOUND
THE LOWDOWN
A big dog in a small, long body. Originally bred to hunt badgers, they are brave, stubborn, and comically dignified. They bond intensely with their owners and can be wary of strangers. Their bark is surprisingly deep for their size. Watch their backs—literally.
Boxer
CLASS: WORKING
THE LOWDOWN
The class clown of the dog world. Boxers are eternal puppies who stay playful well into old age. They are athletic, goofy, and fiercely loyal guardians. They don't just wag their tails; they wiggle their whole bodies. Warning: Drool happens.
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
CLASS: TOY / SPANIEL
THE LOWDOWN
The ultimate "Comfort Dog." Royals bred them to warm laps in drafty castles, and they still take that job seriously. They are gentle, sporty enough for a hike, but happy to sleep on the couch all day. They have zero guard dog instinct—they will likely lick a burglar.
Akita
CLASS: WORKING
THE LOWDOWN
A dignified, silent guardian from Japan. Akitas are profoundly loyal to their family but naturally suspicious of strangers and other dogs. They are cat-like in their cleanliness and don't bark without a serious reason. They require respect, not just affection. Not for first-time owners.
Bichon Frise
CLASS: NON-SPORTING
THE LOWDOWN
The world's greatest optimist. The Bichon is a cheerful, white powder puff that assumes everyone is a friend. They are resilient, sturdy little dogs that love to perform tricks. Their hair grows constantly and doesn't shed much, making them great for allergy sufferers (but expensive at the groomer).
Dalmatian
CLASS: NON-SPORTING
THE LOWDOWN
More than just a movie star. Bred to run alongside horse-drawn carriages for miles, they have limitless stamina. They are sleek, athletic, and can be aloof with strangers. Do not be fooled by the short coat—they shed stiff white hairs constantly that weave into everything. Needs a serious job to do.
Saint Bernard
CLASS: WORKING
THE LOWDOWN
The original gentle giant. Famous for rescuing lost travelers in the Alps, they are patient, watchful, and famously kind with children. They move slowly but possess immense strength. Be prepared for drool—it is a feature, not a bug. They just want to lean on you and be loved.
Great Pyrenees
CLASS: WORKING / GUARDIAN
THE LOWDOWN
A majestic livestock guardian that thinks independently. "Pyrs" are calm and zen-like until a threat appears, then they are fearless. They are nocturnal by nature (bred to patrol at night) and may bark at falling leaves. They don't always obey commands because they think they know better than you.
Samoyed
CLASS: WORKING
THE LOWDOWN
The "Smiling Sammy." These dogs are pure joy wrapped in a cloud of white fur. Bred to herd reindeer and pull sleds, they are social, vocal, and hate being alone. Their famous smile actually serves a purpose: the upturned corners prevent drool from freezing in the arctic cold.
Alaskan Malamute
CLASS: WORKING
THE LOWDOWN
The freight train of the arctic. Unlike the faster Husky, the Malamute is built for raw power and heavy loads. They are incredibly strong, dignified, and loving with their family ("pack"). They are notorious diggers and howlers who need serious exercise to keep from "redecorating" your house.
Greyhound
CLASS: HOUND
THE LOWDOWN
The world's fastest couch potato. While they can hit 45mph in seconds, they spend the other 23.5 hours of the day sleeping. They are gentle, sensitive, and quiet indoors. Because they have very little body fat, they need soft bedding and sweaters in the cold. A perfect apartment dog for lazy owners.
Whippet
CLASS: HOUND
THE LOWDOWN
The "Goldilocks" of dogs—not too big, not too small, and sweetly affectionate. They are essentially miniature Greyhounds but with more curve to their spine and a bit more durability. They are calm indoors but possess an "on" switch for explosive zoomies outside. Very rarely bark.
Italian Greyhound
CLASS: TOY
THE LOWDOWN
The "Iggy" is a tiny, elegance-obsessed Velcro dog. They demand to be under the covers with you and will literally vibrate if they get cold or stressed. They are athletic jumpers but have fragile "pencil" leg bones, so roughhousing is out. Difficult to housebreak because they hate getting their feet wet.
Old English Sheepdog
CLASS: HERDING
THE LOWDOWN
The iconic "Shaggy Dog." Underneath that massive waterproof coat is a muscular, agile drover with a booming bark. They are clownish, affectionate family dogs that may try to "herd" your children by gently bumping them. The grooming requirement is massive—expect to spend hours brushing or pay for frequent clips.
Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier
CLASS: TERRIER
THE LOWDOWN
The "happy camper" of the terrier world. Wheatens are less scrappy and quarrelsome than most terriers, known for their devoted, bouncy nature. They famously perform the "Wheaten Greetin'"—jumping straight up to hug you. Their single, silky coat doesn't shed much but acts like a velcro mop for dirt.
Staffordshire Bull Terrier
CLASS: TERRIER
THE LOWDOWN
Often confused with the larger Pit Bull, the "Staffy" is a smaller, distinct breed famous for its love of people. They are dense muscle balls that are incredibly sensitive and just want to be in your lap. They are brave and tenacious but generally terrible guard dogs because they love humans too much.
Norwich Terrier
CLASS: TERRIER
THE LOWDOWN
One of the smallest but hardiest terriers. Unlike their prick-eared cousins (the Norfolk), Norwich Terriers have erect ears that make them look permanently alert. They are surprisingly affectionate and less scrappy than other terriers, content to hunt rats in the barn or sleep on your lap.
Papillon
CLASS: TOY / SPANIEL
THE LOWDOWN
The "Butterfly Dog" is an athlete in a toy body. Papillons are shockingly fast, agile, and intelligent—often dominating agility courses against bigger dogs. They are not purse dogs; they want to run, solve puzzles, and be part of the action. Their ears are their trademark, fringed with long hair like butterfly wings.
Chesapeake Bay Retriever
CLASS: SPORTING
THE LOWDOWN
The "Chessie" is the rugged 4x4 of the retriever world. Bred to retrieve ducks in freezing, choppy water, they have a dense, oily coat that is waterproof. They are more serious, independent, and protective than Labs or Goldens. They bond intensely with their family but can be indifferent to strangers.
Flat-Coated Retriever
CLASS: SPORTING
THE LOWDOWN
The "Peter Pan" of retrievers. They mature very slowly, retaining a goofy, puppy-like demeanor well into adulthood. They are leaner and more elegant than Labs, with a beautiful feathered coat. They are obsessed with retrieving and will happily carry a sock, rock, or stick around the house all day.
Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever
CLASS: SPORTING
THE LOWDOWN
The "Toller" is the smallest retriever with the biggest engine. Bred to lure ("toll") ducks by playing on the shoreline, they are high-drive, intense working dogs. They have a piercing "Toller Scream" when excited. Not a miniature Golden Retriever—they need serious mental and physical work daily.
Chihuahua
CLASS: TOY
THE LOWDOWN
The world's smallest dog with the world's biggest opinion. Chihuahuas are fiercely loyal to "their person" and often forget they weigh 4 pounds when confronting larger dogs. They are portable, affectionate, and require zero exercise beyond following you to the kitchen. They hate the cold and will demand blankets.
German Shorthaired Pointer
CLASS: SPORTING
THE LOWDOWN
The "Velcro" athlete. GSPs are built for endurance hunting but are famous for needing to touch their humans at all times. They are limitless energy machines that need running, hiking, or a serious job to stay sane. If you don't exercise them, they will re-landscape your backyard.
Curly-Coated Retriever
CLASS: SPORTING
THE LOWDOWN
The "Scholar" of the retriever world. As the oldest of the retriever breeds, they are more independent and discerning than the goofy Labrador. They are fiercely intelligent problem-solvers with a unique coat of tight, crisp curls that repel water and brambles. They mature slowly and need mental stimulation, not just fetch.
German Wirehaired Pointer
CLASS: SPORTING
THE LOWDOWN
The "4-Wheel Drive" hunting dog. Unlike their Shorthaired cousins, the Wirehair is armored with a weather-resistant, wiry coat and beard to handle the roughest terrain. They are slightly more aloof with strangers and protective of their family. A serious athlete who needs a serious job to avoid destruction.
Irish Wolfhound
CLASS: HOUND
THE LOWDOWN
The tallest of all dog breeds, and arguably the gentlest. Originally bred to hunt wolves, modern Wolfhounds are calm, dignified, and sensitive introverts. They are sprinters, not marathon runners—they love a good gallop followed by an 18-hour nap on the softest surface available.
Basenji
CLASS: HOUND
THE LOWDOWN
The dog that thinks it's a cat. Basenjis don't bark (they yodel or "baroo"), they groom themselves like felines, and they are fiercely independent thinkers. They are clever escape artists who view "come" as a suggestion, not a command. They bond tightly with their family but can be aloof with everyone else.
Bloodhound
CLASS: HOUND
THE LOWDOWN
A giant nose with a dog attached. Bloodhounds can track scent trails that are days old and will go completely "deaf" once locked on a smell. At home, they are wrinkly, drooling couch potatoes who just want to lean on you. Their long ears and skin folds help trap scent particles near their nose.
English Setter
CLASS: SPORTING
THE LOWDOWN
The "Gentleman of the Dog World." English Setters are stunning with their speckled "Belton" coat and feathered tail. They have two modes: elegant lounger and energetic athlete. Milder and more mellow than their Irish Setter cousins, they are gentle souls who excel at being beautiful and affectionate.
Jack Russell Terrier
CLASS: TERRIER
THE LOWDOWN
A big dog trapped in a small body. They were bred to hunt foxes underground, which means they are fearless, vocal, and tireless. They are not lap dogs; they are earth-moving machines that need a serious job (agility, ball throwing, or digging). If you don't tire them out, they will invent chaos.
Irish Setter
CLASS: SPORTING
THE LOWDOWN
The "Rollicking" Redhead. Famous for their stunning mahogany coat and boundless enthusiasm for life. They are eternal puppies who mature very slowly (mentally around age 3). They are affectionate, impulsive, and generally terrible listeners if a bird is involved. They need room to run, not just walk.
Gordon Setter
CLASS: SPORTING
THE LOWDOWN
The "Heavyweight" of the setter family. Larger, sturdier, and more protective than the Irish or English setters. They are famously devoted to their specific family and can be aloof with strangers. They are built for stamina, not speed, and make excellent hiking companions who will settle down calmly at night.
Borzoi
CLASS: HOUND
THE LOWDOWN
The aristocrat of the dog world. Formerly known as the Russian Wolfhound, they are essentially giant, silky cats. Indoors, they are silent, graceful loungers. Outdoors, they are 40mph sight-hunting missiles. They are not tricks-for-treats dogs; they obey you only if they agree with your logic.
Saluki
CLASS: HOUND
THE LOWDOWN
The Ferrari of the desert. As one of the oldest breeds known to man, Salukis are dignified, aloof with strangers, and unbelievably fast. They are sight hunters who will chase anything that moves. Indoors, they are silent, gentle statues who prefer the most comfortable furniture you own. They pick one person to love intensely.
Afghan Hound
CLASS: HOUND
THE LOWDOWN
The supermodel of the dog world. Beneath that glamorous coat is a rugged, agile hunter with a clownish sense of humor—but only for their family. To everyone else, they are aloof and regal. They are famous for being "difficult" to train because they don't see the point in obeying you. High-maintenance beauty.
Scottish Deerhound
CLASS: HOUND
THE LOWDOWN
A Greyhound wearing a wire-wool sweater. The "Royal Dog of Scotland" is a polite, sleepy giant. They are far less fragile than Greyhounds and much calmer than Terriers. They live for a good sprint followed by a 16-hour nap. They are notoriously bad guard dogs because they are too polite to bark.
American Eskimo Dog
CLASS: NON-SPORTING
THE LOWDOWN
The former circus star. "Eskies" were the first dogs to walk tightropes in traveling circuses because they are brilliant, agile, and eager to show off. They are natural watchdogs who will bark at everything. They are beautiful, fluffy, and white—which means they shed "glitter" (fur) on everything you own.
Leonberger
CLASS: WORKING
THE LOWDOWN
A lion that thinks it is a lamb. Created in Germany specifically to resemble the lion on the town crest, they are majestic, gentle giants. Unlike many other giant breeds, they love water and have webbed feet for swimming. They are messy drinkers but arguably the best family dogs on the planet.
Greater Swiss Mountain Dog
CLASS: WORKING
THE LOWDOWN
The "Swissy" is the strong, silent type. Think of them as a Bernese Mountain Dog with a short, wash-and-wear coat. Originally "poor man's horses," they were bred to pull carts and guard cattle. They are confident, incredibly strong, and slow to mature—expect a 130lb puppy for the first 3 years.
Kuvasz
CLASS: WORKING / GUARDIAN
THE LOWDOWN
A royal bodyguard in a white coat. Originally bred to guard Hungarian kings and livestock, they are wired to protect. They are not giant Golden Retrievers; they are serious, independent thinkers who assess threats constantly. They are polite with guests but always watching. Requires an experienced owner.
Keeshond
CLASS: NON-SPORTING
THE LOWDOWN
The "Smiling Dutchman." Bred to live on small barges in Holland, they have never been hunters or herders—their only job for centuries was to be a best friend and a watchdog. As a result, they are "Velcro dogs" who cannot bear to be away from you. They wear natural "spectacles" markings around their eyes.
Finnish Spitz
CLASS: NON-SPORTING / HOUND
THE LOWDOWN
A fox that lives in your house. The National Dog of Finland was bred to hunt birds by barking at them until the hunter arrived—and they still love the sound of their own voice. They are lively, independent, and sensitive. If you scold them harshly, they will sulk for hours.
Belgian Tervuren
CLASS: HERDING
THE LOWDOWN
The workaholic in a mahogany coat. "Tervs" are elegant, intense, and possess a limitless desire to work. They are often used as police or search-and-rescue dogs because they solve problems quickly. They are sensitive to their owner's mood and can be "spooky" or shy if not socialized young.
Cardigan Welsh Corgi
CLASS: HERDING
THE LOWDOWN
The Corgi with the tail. Older than the Pembroke (the Queen's dog), the Cardigan is slightly larger, heavier-boned, and more laid back. They are "big dogs on short legs" with a deep bark and a serious work ethic. They are less social butterfly, more watchful guardian than their Pembroke cousins.
Belgian Sheepdog
CLASS: HERDING
THE LOWDOWN
The "Black Pearl" of the herding group. Visually stunning with a long, black coat, they are intense, athletic, and shadow-like in their loyalty. They move in circles (literally) and are always in motion. They are fiercely protective of their "flock" (your family) and wary of strangers.
Bearded Collie
CLASS: HERDING
THE LOWDOWN
The "Bouncing Beardie." Famous for their vertical leap—they jump straight up to see over the flock (or your kitchen counter). They are shaggy, charismatic optimists who are convinced life is a party. Rain or shine, they want to be outdoors, usually getting mud in their long coat.
Airedale Terrier
CLASS: TERRIER
THE LOWDOWN
The "King of Terriers." The largest of all terrier breeds, they were originally used as police and military dogs in WWI. They are clever, stoic, and possess a distinct sense of humor. They don't just fetch; they analyze why you threw the ball. They have a stubborn streak a mile wide.
Briard
CLASS: HERDING
THE LOWDOWN
A "Heart Wrapped in Fur." This French sheepdog is famous for having double dewclaws on their rear legs (extra toes) and hearing that can detect a leaf drop a mile away. They track their family members like radar and get anxious if the "flock" is separated in different rooms.
Labradoodle
CLASS: HYBRID
THE LOWDOWN
The dog that started the "Doodle" craze. Originally bred in Australia as a hypoallergenic guide dog, they combine the work ethic of the Lab with the intelligence of the Poodle. They are intuitive, social, and water-obsessed. Unlike Goldendoodles, they can be a bit more protective/alert.
Bernedoodle
CLASS: HYBRID
THE LOWDOWN
The living Teddy Bear. A cross between the Bernese Mountain Dog and Poodle, they are bred specifically to be the ultimate companion. They inherit the Bernese "chill" factor and loyalty, making them slightly calmer (and more stubborn) than the Goldendoodle. They are goofy, clumsy, and affectionate.
Cavapoo
CLASS: HYBRID
THE LOWDOWN
The "Fuzzy Valentine." A mix of Cavalier King Charles Spaniel and Poodle, they are bred purely for companionship. They inherit the Spaniel's sweet, melting expression and the Poodle's hypoallergenic coat. They are gentle souls who simply cannot handle being alone—they need a human or a heartbeat nearby at all times.
Cockapoo
CLASS: HYBRID
THE LOWDOWN
The original "Designer Dog" (since the 1960s). A cross between a Cocker Spaniel and a Poodle, they are the Honda Civic of dogs—reliable, happy, and fit into almost any lifestyle. They are sturdier than Cavapoos and less intense than Goldendoodles. They have a "big dog" bark but a teddy bear heart.
Maltipoo
CLASS: HYBRID
THE LOWDOWN
The "Forever Puppy." A Maltese mixed with a Toy Poodle creates a tiny, soft cloud of affection. They retain their puppy-like size and demeanor well into old age. They are excellent alert watchdogs (they will bark when the Uber Eats arrives) but are mostly interested in sleeping on the finest pillow in your house.
Sheepadoodle
CLASS: HYBRID
THE LOWDOWN
The "Panda Bear" of dogs. A cross between an Old English Sheepdog and a Poodle, they are massive, goofy, and incredibly distinct with their black-and-white markings. They inherit the herding instinct, so they may try to gently bump or nip heels to round up the family. They are not serious guard dogs; they are giant comedians.
Aussiedoodle
CLASS: HYBRID
THE LOWDOWN
"Einstein on Red Bull." Crossing an Australian Shepherd with a Poodle creates a dog with frightening intelligence and limitless energy. They are agility champions, hiking partners, and puzzle solvers. If you do not give them a complex job to do, they will outsmart you and dismantle your house.
Pomsky
CLASS: HYBRID
THE LOWDOWN
The viral internet sensation. A cross between a Pomeranian and a Siberian Husky, designed to look like a "forever puppy" wolf. They inherit the Husky's vocal nature (howling) and the Pomeranian's sass. They are small but possess big-dog attitude and heavy-duty shedding. Not a lap dog; a tiny adventurer.
American Bully
CLASS: COMPANION
THE LOWDOWN
A bodybuilder with a heart of marshmallow. Often confused with Pit Bulls, the American Bully was bred specifically in the 90s to remove prey drive and aggression, creating the ultimate sturdy companion. They come in sizes from "Pocket" to "XL." They look intimidating but mostly just want to snore on your feet.
Mini Goldendoodle
CLASS: HYBRID
THE LOWDOWN
The apartment-friendly version of America's favorite hybrid. By crossing a Golden Retriever with a Miniature Poodle, you get the Golden's legendary friendliness in a portable, low-shedding package. They are eager to please, social butterflies who fit into almost any lifestyle, from city studio to suburban yard.
Bernese Mountain Dog
CLASS: WORKING
THE LOWDOWN
The "Berner" is a teddy bear come to life. Bred in Switzerland to pull carts and drive cattle, they are strong but surprisingly lazy. They are "leaners"—they will lean their entire weight against your legs to be close to you. They thrive in winter and will happily sleep in a snowbank, but they wilt in the heat.
Great Dane
CLASS: WORKING
THE LOWDOWN
The "Apollo of Dogs." Despite being the size of a small horse, the Dane is a sensitive, total couch potato who believes they are a lap dog. They are gentle, quiet, and friendly, though their tail is a dangerous weapon that clears coffee tables in a single swipe. They grow fast and eat a lot, but their hearts are pure gold.
Doberman Pinscher
CLASS: WORKING
THE LOWDOWN
The "Velcro" bodyguard. Dobermans are famously misunderstood; movies portray them as vicious, but owners know them as sensitive, affectionate shadows who literally lean on you. They are incredibly intelligent, easy to train, and fearless protectors. They need close human contact and will wither if left alone in a backyard.
Pug
CLASS: TOY
THE LOWDOWN
A lot of dog in a small space. Pugs are the comedians of the canine world, bred purely to be lap dogs for Chinese emperors. They live to eat and sleep, often at the same time. They snore loudly, shed surprisingly heavily, and follow their owners from room to room. They have zero prey drive and love everyone.
Pomeranian
CLASS: TOY
THE LOWDOWN
A tiny dog who thinks he is a sled dog. Descended from large Arctic spitz breeds, the "Pom" has a huge personality and a glorious double coat. They are cocky, animated, and excellent watchdogs (read: barkers). They walk with a distinct "prance" and demand to be the center of attention at all times.
Border Collie
CLASS: HERDING
THE LOWDOWN
The smartest dog breed in the world, period. They don't just want exercise; they need complex mental calculus to stay sane. If you don't give them a job (agility, frisbee, herding), they will invent one—like organizing your shoe collection by color or herding your children into the bathroom. Intense, focused, and amazing.
Cane Corso
CLASS: WORKING
THE LOWDOWN
The Roman bodyguard. This is not a dog for beginners. They are immense, muscular mastiffs bred to hunt boar and protect property. To their family, they are devoted, affectionate, and surprisingly sensitive. To strangers, they are an intimidating wall of silence. They require strong leadership and heavy-duty chew toys.
Shetland Sheepdog
CLASS: HERDING
THE LOWDOWN
A "Lassie" in miniature. Shelties are brilliantly smart, intensely loyal, and famously vocal. They will bark to tell you the mail is here, the wind is blowing, or that they love you. They are sensitive souls who pick up on their owner's mood instantly. Their beautiful double coat sheds... a lot.
Boston Terrier
CLASS: NON-SPORTING
THE LOWDOWN
The "American Gentleman." Dressed in a natural tuxedo, the Boston is the ultimate city companion. They are sturdy, compact, and polite, with a mischievous sense of humor. They love to play fetch but overheat easily due to their flat faces. They snore loudly, but their big bug eyes make you forgive them.
Maltese
CLASS: TOY
THE LOWDOWN
An ancient lap dog of the Mediterranean. Do not let the show-dog ribbons fool you; the Maltese is a sprightly, fearless little watchdog. They are famous for their floor-length white silky hair (if you have the patience to brush it), but most owners keep them in a "puppy cut." They simply want to be held.
Havanese
CLASS: TOY
THE LOWDOWN
The National Dog of Cuba. Unlike many toy breeds, the Havanese is sturdy, not fragile. They are famous "Velcro dogs" who will follow you into the shower if you let them. They are natural clowns who often invent their own games to make you laugh. Their long, silky coat is hair, not fur, making them hypoallergenic but high-maintenance.
Miniature Schnauzer
CLASS: TERRIER
THE LOWDOWN
The dog with the old man beard. The smallest of the three Schnauzer breeds, they are spunky, smart, and vocal watchdogs. They are less scrappy than other terriers and more obedient, but they still love to chase squirrels. Their wiry coat sheds very little but needs regular clipping to keep them looking sharp.
Cocker Spaniel
CLASS: SPORTING
THE LOWDOWN
The original Disney dog. With their big, soulful eyes and lush ears, Cockers are the definition of "sweet." They are sporty enough to flush birds in the field but happy enough to sleep on the sofa. They are "merry" dogs who wag their tails with their whole bodies. Their heavy ears need weekly cleaning to prevent infections.
Australian Cattle Dog
CLASS: HERDING
THE LOWDOWN
A dingo with a job. Bred to herd wild cattle in the Australian Outback, "Heelers" are virtually indestructible. They are fiercely loyal to one person (Shadow Dogs) and wary of strangers. They herd by nipping at heels, so they need training to not herd your children. They are tough, smart, and tireless.
Belgian Malinois
CLASS: HERDING
THE LOWDOWN
The "Maligator." Often mistaken for a German Shepherd, the Malinois is smaller, faster, and much more intense. They are the Ferrari of military and police dogs. They are not pets; they are lifestyle choices. They need hours of physical and mental work daily, or they will destroy your home. For experts only.
Vizsla
CLASS: SPORTING
THE LOWDOWN
The famous "Velcro Vizsla" attaches itself physically and emotionally to its human. This Hungarian pointer isn't happy unless some part of their body is touching yours. Expect a shadow that follows you from room to room, including the bathroom. Gorgeous rust-colored coat, supreme athleticism, and an almost embarrassing need to be loved.
Weimaraner
CLASS: SPORTING
THE LOWDOWN
The "Grey Ghost" combines elegance with high-octane performance. Originally bred for German nobility to hunt large game, this sleek silver athlete needs serious exercise—think marathon runner, not couch potato. They bond fiercely and cannot tolerate being left alone. Beautiful but demanding, with a prey drive that means small pets may be at risk.
Rhodesian Ridgeback
CLASS: HOUND
THE LOWDOWN
Originally bred to corner lions in Africa, this dignified athlete combines courage with a surprisingly calm demeanor at home. The distinctive ridge of backward-growing hair along their spine marks a dog that's fearless yet gentle with family. They're independent thinkers who need consistent training. Great with kids, but they absolutely hate rain and will refuse to go outside.
Newfoundland
CLASS: WORKING
THE LOWDOWN
A massive swimmer with a heart of gold, the Newfoundland is basically a furry lifeguard. Bred to rescue drowning sailors in icy Canadian waters, these gentle giants have webbed feet and a waterproof coat. They're famously patient with children—nicknamed "nanny dogs"—but be prepared for drool, hair, and a dog that takes up most of the couch. Heat is their enemy.
English Mastiff
CLASS: WORKING
THE LOWDOWN
One of the most ancient and powerful breeds in history, the modern Mastiff prefers the lifestyle of a gentle family guardian. They possess immense physical strength combined with a calm, docile temperament. These giants thrive on being close to their people and serve as silent, imposing watchdogs. Future owners must accept heavy drool and loud snoring as part of the package.
English Springer Spaniel
CLASS: SPORTING
THE LOWDOWN
These cheerful dogs represent the perfect balance between a driven hunting companion and an affectionate family pet. They flush game in the field with boundless enthusiasm and return home to curl up on the sofa. Their "eager-to-please" attitude makes them highly trainable, though they often choose to follow their nose over strict commands.
Brittany
CLASS: SPORTING
THE LOWDOWN
Leggy, agile, and tireless, the Brittany operates as a high-performance athlete in a compact package. While they share traits with spaniels, they point game like a setter. They require vigorous daily exercise and human connection to remain balanced. A bored Brittany becomes a creative escape artist, so an active lifestyle is mandatory for this breed.
Miniature American Shepherd
CLASS: HERDING
THE LOWDOWN
Popularly known as the "Mini Aussie," this breed shares the intense intelligence and drive of the Australian Shepherd but in a smaller frame. They excel at agility, obedience, and herding tasks. Their clever minds require constant engagement and challenges. They serve as excellent travel companions for active owners who want a rugged dog in a portable size.
Portuguese Water Dog
CLASS: WORKING
THE LOWDOWN
Once a vital crew member on Portuguese fishing vessels, this breed herded fish into nets and couriered messages between ships. They possess an adventurous spirit and a coat of hair (rather than fur) that keeps growing. Spirited and fun-loving, they require vigorous exercise to keep their active minds settled. A true maritime athlete.
Shiba Inu
CLASS: NON-SPORTING
THE LOWDOWN
An ancient Japanese breed possessing a spirited boldness and a fastidious nature. Often described as a cat in a dog's body, they groom themselves obsessively and carry themselves with dignity. They offer loyalty to their family but remain aloof with strangers. When displeased, they emit the famous high-pitched "Shiba Scream."
American Staffordshire Terrier
CLASS: TERRIER
THE LOWDOWN
A stocky, muscular athlete with a heart of gold for humans. Distinct from the smaller Staffordshire Bull Terrier, the "AmStaff" possesses immense strength and courage. They thrive on human interaction and often view themselves as oversized lap dogs. Responsible ownership and socialization are key, as they are powerful, tenacious animals who bond deeply.
Collie
CLASS: HERDING
THE LOWDOWN
The world's most famous television dog remains a symbol of loyalty and grace. Whether the full-coated "Rough" or the sleeker "Smooth" variety, Collies are famously sensitive to their owner's emotions. They herd children and pets with a gentle nature but will bark to announce any change in their environment.
Bull Terrier
CLASS: TERRIER
THE LOWDOWN
Instantly recognizable by their egg-shaped head and mischievous eyes, the "kid in a dog suit" lives to entertain. They possess a muscular build and a stubborn streak a mile wide. Life with a Bull Terrier involves constant laughter and frequent negotiations. They require firm, patient training and plenty of durable toys.
Norfolk Terrier
CLASS: TERRIER
THE LOWDOWN
Distinguished from their Norwich cousins by their folded "drop" ears, these hardy little workers pack a massive personality into a portable frame. Farmers originally bred them to bolt foxes and hunt vermin, so they retain a fearless, prey-driven nature. They thrive as social, affectionate companions who prefer being part of a pack rather than solitary guardians. A "perfect demon" in the field and a charming lap warmer at home.