A large and muscular dog, the Rhodesian Ridgeback was not only developed as a hunter but also as a family protector. The breed can be light wheaten to red wheaten and are sleek and glossy in appearance. Originally bred to hunt lions the breed is also known as the African Lion Hound. History A native of South Africa, the Rhodesian Ridgeback was bred by the Boer farmers to fill their specific need for a serviceable […]

Robust and powerful, the Rottweiler is happiest when given a job to perform. His intelligence, endurance, and willingness to work make him suitable as a police dog, herder, service dog, therapy dog, obedience competitor, and devoted companion. An inherent protector, the Rottweiler is self-confident and responds quietly and with a wait-and-see attitude to influences in his environment. He is medium in size and his coat is black with rust to mahogany markings. History The Rottweiler’s […]

The small, foxlike Schipperke is known for its mischievous expression and distinctive black coat, which stands off from the body and is harsh to the touch. This enthusiastic, joyful, and sometimes willful dog has a thickset and cobby body and lacks a tail. Although historically a watchdog and vermin hunter, today this ageless breed enjoys competing in conformation, agility, and obedience, often well into its teens. History The Schipperke originated in the Flemish regions of […]

Resembling a larger, coated Greyhound, the Scottish Deerhound is a keen and alert sight hound, seen often in lure coursing events and the show ring. One of the oldest breeds, the Deerhound possesses a preeminent hunting ability. The hair on the body and neck is harsh and wiry, while the coat on the head, breast, and belly is much softer. Coat colors include blue-gray, gray, brindle, and black, among others. History Known centuries ago as […]

Although small, the Sealyham Terrier is the embodiment of power and determination a true terrier! The Sealyham’s wiry, weather-resistant double coat should be all white. Lemon, tan, or badger-colored markings are allowed on the head and ears. Very keen and alert, the breed was used as a hunter in the past, although today they excel as a family pet and participant in Earthdog competitions. History Originally bred in Wales, the Sealyham was developed from the […]

A compact and solid dog, the Shih Tzu’s long, flowing double coat is its most distinctive feature. The word Shih Tzu means “lion” and although this dog is sweet and playful, he is not afraid to stand up for himself! One of the most popular dogs in the United States according to AKC Registration Statistics, this portable pooch has a distinctively arrogant carriage with his head well up and tail curved over the back. History […]

The Skye Terrier is an elegant dog and fiercely loyal to those he knows and loves. Although a rare breed, anyone who has the opportunity to share hearth and home with a Skye is truly fortunate. Given the chance, and with loving instruction, Skyes participate in obedience, agility, tracking, and pet therapy, as well as serving as couch companions. History One of the oldest terriers, the breed originated on the Isle of Skye off the […]

The Smooth Fox Terrier is an active, friendly, and playful breed. They are predominantly white in color with black or tan markings. Fox Terriers are highly trainable and excel in events such as agility. Originally in the same category as the Wire Fox Terrier, the breeds became separate in 1984. History The Smooth Fox Terrier originated in the British Isles in the 17th century. Owned by farmers who needed help eradicating vermin, the breed used […]

The Staffordshire Bull Terrier is a smooth-coated dog with great strength for its size. He is active and agile and comes in six color varieties: solid red, fawn, white, black, blue, or brindle. Today, he serves primarily as a family companion and is seen in the show, obedience, and agility rings. History The Staffordshire Bull Terrier draws its character of indomitable courage, high intelligence, and tenacity from his past history. The breed originated in the […]

Often described as “a clown in the cloak of a philosopher,” the French Bulldog originated as and continues to be used as a companion dog. The breed is small and muscular with a heavy bone structure, a smooth coat, a short face, and trademark “bat” ears. Prized for their affectionate natures and even dispositions, they are generally active and alert, but not unduly boisterous. Frenchies can be brindle, fawn, white, and brindle and white. We […]