The Dachshund, meaning “badger dog” in German, is a lively breed with a friendly personality and keen sense of smell. Known for their long and low bodies, they are eager hunters that excel in both above- and below-ground work. One of the most popular breeds according to AKC Registration Statistics, they come in three different coat varieties (Smooth, Wirehaired, or Longhaired) and can be a miniature or standard size. History Dachshunds were first bred in […]

Low-set, strong, and sturdily built, the Pembroke Welsh Corgi gives an impression of substance in a small space. He is one of the most agreeable small house dogs, as well as an avid competitor in many dog sports, including conformation, herding, and obedience. The Pembroke Corgi is a separate breed from the Cardigan Corgi, possessing a shorter body and straighter, lighter-boned legs. His ears are pointed at the tip and stand erect, and he has […]

Exhibited in the US since the 1880s, the Cocker Spaniel remains one of the most popular breeds according to AKC registration statistics. The Cocker has a sturdy, compact body and a silky, flat, or wavy coat. He is a merry, well-balanced dog that is capable of considerable speed and great endurance. Cocker Spaniels can be black, black with tan points, parti-colored, or any solid color other than black (ASCOB). History As far back as the […]

Graceful, alert, and swift-moving with a saucy expression, the Chihuahua is highly intelligent and should not be underestimated even though small in size. The breed can be any color: solid, marked, or splashed, and the coat may be long or short. These sassy little dogs are well known as “purse dogs” like the famous Bruiser in the movie Legally Blonde starring Reese Witherspoon. History The Chihuahua’s history is shrouded in mystery, but some believe he […]

The Papillon is a small, friendly, elegant toy dog with a fine-boned structure. He is light and dainty, yet still lively, and is distinguished from other breeds by his beautiful, butterfly-like ears. They are known to be happy and alert little dogs that are not shy or aggressive. The breed must be either parti-color or white with patches of any color. History Papillons, which used to only have large, drooping ears, were known in the […]

Best known as “Toto” from the Wizard of Oz, the Cairn Terrier is a small, hardy working terrier. Originally bred to aid Scottish farmers in ridding their properties of pests, Cairns today use their tenacity to excel in obedience, agility, terrier, and tracking trials. Alert and active, this breed possesses a harsh, weather-resistant outer coat that can be any color except white. The hair around the head gives him a general foxy expression. History The […]

Truly an “All-American” dog, the Boston Terrier is a lively and highly intelligent breed with an excellent disposition. Conveying an impression of determination, strength, and activity, he is short-headed and compactly built and must be black, brindle, or seal with white markings. History Following the Civil War, the Boston Terrier breed was developed in the stables of Boston, Massachusetts, as a fighting dog. An imported dog known as “Hooper’s Judge” (sold to a Boston man […]

A sturdy hunting dog, the Beagle should look like a foxhound in miniature. His hunting ability, combined with a merry personality, has made the Beagle one of the most popular dogs in the United States according to AKC Registration Statistics. The most famous Beagle of all is Snoopy from the comic strip “Peanuts.” Today’s Beagle comes in two height varieties (13 in. and 15 in.) and any true hound color, including tri-color, red and white, […]

The Australian Terrier is small and sturdy with a blue and tan, sandy, or red coat that is harsh in texture. They have a keen and alert expression and confident spirit. They are versatile in their work and living situations, making suitable companions in most environments. History The Australian Terrier was developed to assist its owner during work in the rugged Australian Outback. He worked side by side with pioneers to control vermin and snake […]

Animated, adaptable and agile, the Australian Shepherd lives for his job, which still involves herding livestock and working as an all-purpose farm and ranch dog. He needs a lot of activity and a sense of purpose to be truly content. Today, due to the breed’s intelligence and versatility, Aussies also excel in AKC events such as agility, obedience, and herding. Their coats can be black, blue merle, red merle, and red with or without white […]