Breed Encyclopedia

Affenpinscher

The Affenpinscher, also known as the "Monkey Dog" is small but feisty, full of spunk and energy.

Afghan Hound

The Afghan Hound was originally used for hunting large prey in both the deserts and in the mountains of Afghanistan, where his abundant, flowing coat was needed for warmth.

Airedale Terrier

During World War I, a hardy Airedale Terrier named Jack braved the battlefields to deliver a message to British headquarters.

Akita

The Akita is a large and powerful dog breed with a noble and intimidating presence. He was originally used for guarding royalty and nobility in feudal Japan.

Alaskan Malamute

The Alaskan Malamute features a powerful, sturdy body built for stamina and strength. It reigns as one of the oldest dog breeds whose original looks have not been significantly altered. This intelligent canine needs a job and consistent leadership to avoid becoming bored or challenging to handle.

American English Coonhound

A descendent of the English Foxhound, this hunting dog breed is known for his speed, endurance, and loud voice in the field. The American English Coonhound will bark and bay at home, too, making him a poor choice if you’ve got nearby neighbors. He needs lots of exercise

American Eskimo Dog

Called “the dog beautiful” by his admirers, the American Eskimo Dog, or “Eskie,” is a striking fellow with his white coat, sweet expression, and black eyes.

American Foxhound

Easygoing, sweet, kind, and loyal, the American Foxhound dog breed belongs to a way of life that has continued for more than two centuries, but he has the potential to be a modern-day companion as well

American Pit Bull Terrier

The American Pit Bull Terrier is a companion and family dog breed. Originally bred to “bait” bulls, the breed evolved into all-around farm dogs, and later moved into the house to become “nanny dogs” because they were so gentle around children.

American Water Spaniel

"The American Water Spaniel was bred to be an all-around hunting dog. Specializing in waterfowl, he’s a skilled swimmer who will retrieve from small boats and has a water-resistant double coat. "

Anatolian Shepherd Dog

The Anatolian Shepherd Dog is a native of Turkey, where he was developed as a shepherd’s companion and livestock guardian.

Appenzeller Sennenhunde

The Appenzeller originated as an all-around farm dog breed, who stayed busy herding the livestock, guarding the farm, and pulling carts in his native Switzerland. 

Australian Cattle Dog

"The Australian Cattle Dog is an extremely intelligent, active, and sturdy dog breed. Developed by Australian settlers to handle herds of cattle on expansive ranches, he’s still used today as a herding dog. "

Australian Shepherd

Despite his name, the Australian Shepherd originated in the western U.S., not Australia, around the time of the Gold Rush in the 1840s

Australian Terrier

The Australian Terrier was developed in Australia, as his name implies. Bred to hunt and exterminate rodents and snakes, Australian Terriers were also prized as watchdogs and companions

Azawakh

A dog breed named for the Azawakh Valley in the Sahara desert where he originated, this is a lean and swift hunter with a regal presence. He’s proud but loyal, and protective of his home and family.

Barbet

"This woolly sporting dog breed is fun-loving and smart. He was bred for retrieving waterfowl for hunters — and has the webbed feet to prove it — but he’s also a talented agility competitor in his native France. "

Basenji

Out of Africa, the Basenji dog breed was originally found in the Congo. He uses both scent and sight to hunt and was originally used to flush small game into a hunter’s nets and to control village rodent populations.

Basset Hound

The Basset dog breed was bred for hunting small game such as rabbits and is still used for this purpose in some parts of the country.

Beagle

"Small, compact, and hardy, Beagles are active companions for kids and adults alike. Canines in this dog breed are merry and fun loving, but being hounds, they can also be stubborn and require patient, creative training techniques. "

Bearded Collie

The Bearded Collie dog breed was developed in Scotland to herd sheep and cattle in any weather or terrain.

Bedlington Terrier

The Bedlington Terrier dog breed originated as a killer of vermin and poacher’s sidekick. Today Bedlingtons excel as companions and in the show ring.

Belgian Malinois

Canines of the Belgian Malinois dog breed were originally bred to be herding dogs. Today, they also work as police dogs, protection dogs, and family companions. 

Belgian Sheepdog

This medium-size herding dog breed originated in Belgium where he was used to herd sheep. He later graduated to police work, and today his versatility makes him suitable for many types of work and dog sports. He’s alert, devoted, and protective.

Belgian Tervuren

Also known as the Picardy Shepherd, the Berger Picard dog breed is thought to be the oldest of the French sheepdogs.

Berger Picard

Also known as the Picardy Shepherd, the Berger Picard dog breed is thought to be the oldest of the French sheepdogs.

Bernese Mountain Dog

The Bernese Mountain Dog is an extremely versatile working dog from the farmlands of Switzerland. He was developed to herd cattle, pull carts, and be a watchdog and loyal companion.

Bichon Frise

The Bichon Frise (pronounced BEE-shawn FREE-say; the plural is Bichons Frises) is a cheerful, small dog breed with a love of mischief and a lot of love to give

Black and Tan Coonhound

Born in the USA, the outgoing and friendly black and tan coonhound is a versatile companion who shines in the show ring and field. At home, he’s a superb playmate, jogging or walking companion, and bed warmer.

Black Russian Terrier

These majestic black beauties are highly intelligent, confident guard dogs who aren’t actually true terriers. Relatively new and still a rare dog breed, Black Russian Terriers are working dogs who can protect a home or business, play with the family’s children, and excel in agility and obedience competition. 

Bloodhound

"The Bloodhound’s ancestors were created in medieval France to trail deer and boar. Today, he’s a highly active and intelligent dog breed whose keen sense of smell has found him a special place in law enforcement and search and rescue "

Bluetick Coonhound

Fast and muscular, the Bluetick dog breed stands out for his striking coat. He has a pleasantly pleading expression and a big bawl mouth — meaning he has a long, drawn out bark

Bolognese

"A true companion dog, the Bolognese dog breed loves to be at his family’s side."

Border Collie

The Border Collie dog breed was developed to gather and control sheep in the hilly border country between Scotland and England. He is known for his intense stare, or “eye,” with which he controls his flock.

Border Terrier

This alert, good-natured dog was originally bred to assist in foxhunts, driving foxes out of their hiding places and out into the open for the hounds to chase. He still has a powerful drive to hunt and dig, as well as the energy level that enabled him to keep up with hunters on horseback.

Borzoi

Borzoi dog breed was developed in Russia as coursing and hunting dogs. These hounds were hunted in teams of three to go after rabbit, fox, and wolves

Boston Terrier

Boston Terriers have been popular since their creation a little more than a century ago. They were originally bred to be fighting dogs, but today, they’re gentle, affectionate companions with tuxedo-like markings that earned them the nickname “American Gentleman.”

Bouvier des Flandres

The Bouvier des Flandres was originally bred to be a versatile farm dog. He helped farmers in a multitude of tasks, including herding livestock (particularly cattle), pulling carts, and guarding

Boxer

Boxers were originally bred to be medium-size guard dogs. Today, although they are a part of the AKC’s Working Group, they mostly find homes as loving family companions.

Boykin Spaniel

The Boykin Spaniel dog breed is known for his hunting skills, but he makes just as good a companion to a family as to a hunter, thanks to his smarts and his friendly confidence. The family should be an active one, however; this dog needs lots of exercise.

Bracco Italiano

In his native Italy, the Bracco Italiano is known as a hunting dog breed, but he’s also gaining notice as a sweet and affectionate family companion. With his long ears, droopy lips, and soulful expression, the Bracco Italiano has a distinctive look. He’s believed to be an ancient breed, dating back to the fourth or fifth century B.C

Briard

Underneath the Briard’s long, shaggy coat lies a bold spirit and keen intelligence. True to his French roots, he can be aloof with strangers, but is affectionate and loving toward members of his pack. Bred as a herding and guard dog to protect flocks and fight off predators, he was adopted as a working dog during World War I and used by troops as sentries, ammunition carriers, messengers, and medic dogs

Brittany

"The energetic Brittany is a versatile family companion and hunting dog who works more closely to the hunter than other pointing breed "

Brussels Griffon

The energetic Brittany is a versatile family companion and hunting dog who works more closely to the hunter than other pointing breed

Bull Terrier

"The Bull Terrier was originally developed in the 19th century as a fighting dog and, later, a fashionable companion for gentlemen, but these days he’s a family companion and show dog. He’s a dog breed distinguished by his long, egg-shaped head. "

Bulldog

Bulldogs originally were used to drive cattle to market and to compete in a bloody sport called bullbaiting. Today, they’re gentle companions who love kids. A brief walk and a nap on the sofa is just this dog breed‘s speed.

Bullmastiff

"The Bullmastiff dog breed is a firm and fearless family guardian. While standoffish toward strangers he’s got a soft spot for his loved ones. He has a short, easy-care coat, but he is a drooler. "

Cairn Terrier

The Cairn Terrier dog breed is a small working terrier developed on the Isle of Skye in Scotland. Farmers used him to rid their property of vermin, and they needed a dog with courage, tenacity, and intelligence

Canaan Dog

The Canaan Dog is a pariah dog that has survived in the desert region of Israel for thousands of years. Believed to be the dog breed that the Hebrews used in biblical times to herd and guard their flocks and encampments, some are still used by Bedouins and Druse for this purpose today.

Cane Corso

This old Italian dog breed was developed to guard property and hunt big game such as wild boar. He is powerful and athletic and is best suited to an experienced owner who has a large, securely fenced yard

Cardigan Welsh Corgi

The Cardigan Welsh Corgi is the older of the two Corgi dog breeds, with dogs of this type believed to have existed in Wales for more than 3,000 years.

Catahoula Leopard Dog

The Catahoula dog breed has a striking appearance and a strong work ethic. He’s a tough dog bred to work in swamps and forests and requires a leader who is firm and consistent, with time to keep him occupied.

Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

Although he’s born to be a companion, the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel dog breed retains the sporty nature of his spaniel ancestors. If he’s not sitting on a lap or getting a belly rub, nothing makes him happier than to flush a bird and then attempt to retrieve it

Cesky Terrier

This Czech native dog breed is a cross between a Scottish Terrier and a Sealyham Terrier. He was created to hunt vermin, but with his loving personality, moderate exercise needs, and small size, he makes a great companion dog too.

Chesapeake Bay Retriever

The Chesapeake Bay Retriever dog breed originated as a water dog used to hunt and retrieve ducks in the chilly chop of Maryland’s Chesapeake Bay. The dog’s sturdy build, dense coat, stamina, and strength made him ideal for this purpose. 

Chihuahua

The Chihuahua dog breed‘s charms include his small size, outsize personality, and variety in coat types and colors. He’s all dog, fully capable of competing in dog sports such as agility and obedience, and is among the top 10 watchdogs recommended by experts

Chinese Crested

The Chinese Crested dog breed was created to be an invalid’s companion. In that setting, you won’t find a better dog. They can almost read your mind and will lie in bed for hours without moving a muscle. They have almost no desire to go out and run around like regular dogs, although they are athletic enough to jump surprisingly tall fences and compete in agility.

Chinese Shar-Pei

Though the Chinese Shar-Pei is the 134th breed recognized by the American Kennel Club, the dog breed has been around for hundreds of years. He was developed to guard, hunt, herd, and later, fight, and is known for his characteristic short, bristly coat, loose, wrinkled skin, and devotion to his family.

Chinook

Created in the White Mountains of New Hampshire, the Chinook dog breed made his name on Admiral Byrd’s first Antarctic expedition in 1928. These days he’s a multipurpose dog who’s happy hiking, competing in agility and other dog sports, pulling a sled or other conveyance, and playing with the kids

Chow Chow

"This distinctive-looking dog breed has a proud, independent spirit that some describe as catlike. He can be aloof — if you’re looking for a cuddle buddy, this probably isn’t the best breed for you — and downright suspicious of strangers. But for the right person, he’s a fiercely loyal companion. "

Clumber Spaniel

The Clumber Spaniel dog breed was originally created to find and retrieve game birds for hunters. Today, there is an effort to re-establish the Clumber Spaniel as an exceptional gundog, and many Clumber Spaniels compete in field trials.

Cockapoo

"An adorable small dog with the personality of a big clown, the Cockapoo is the first of the “designer dogs” (not a “pure” dog breed), dating back to the 1960s rather than to just a few years ago. Completely people-oriented, the Cockapoo is intelligent enough to train easily, hardly sheds, forgives quickly, and is so affectionate that you’ll never feel alone. "

Cocker Spaniel

The Cocker Spaniel is primarily a beloved companion dog breed, though he remains a capable bird dog at heart. Beautiful to look at (and labor-intensive to groom), the Cocker’s amenable, cheerful disposition also makes him a treat to have in the family. 

Collie

"The Collie dog breed is a native of Scotland, mostly of the Highland regions but also bred in the Scottish Lowlands and northern England, where she was used primarily as a herding dog. She is a sensitive and intelligent dog, known for her undying loyalty and amazing ability to foresee her owner’s needs. She is a great family companion, and is still a capable herding dog. "

Coton de Tulear

Sweet and cuddly dog breed with a clownish personality, the Coton de Tulear is always ready for a good time. This smart little dog with the cottony coat originated in Madagascar and is related to the Bichon Frise and the Maltese

Curly-Coated Retriever

Created to retrieve game from land or water, the Curly-Coated Retriever dog breed was popular with English gamekeepers, hunters, and poachers alike. Today he competes in such dog sports as field trials, agility, obedience, and flyball and has been successful as a therapy dog, drug detection dog, and search and rescue dog.

Dachshund

Dachshunds are scent hound dog breeds who were bred to hunt badgers and other tunneling animals, rabbits, and foxes. Packs of Dachshunds were even used to trail wild boar. Today their versatility makes them excellent family companions, show dogs, and small-game hunters.

Dalmatian

Best known as the star of Disney’s 101 Dalmatians, this sleek and athletic dog breed has a history that goes back several hundred years. He started out as a coach dog but has also served in many other capacities, including hunter, firehouse dog, and circus performer. As charming in life as in film, he goes from gallant to goofy to gallant again in the blink of an eye, and loves to be a part of everything his family does.

Dandie Dinmont Terrier

"Dandie Dinmont Terriers originally were bred to hunt otter and badger. Nicknamed the gentleman of the terrier family, he is calm and reserved, yet retains his terrier tenacity and love of the hunt. His small size and moderate exercise needs make him well suited to both city and country homes. "

Doberman Pinscher

The Doberman Pinscher was developed in Germany during the late 19th century, primarily as a guard dog. His exact ancestry is unknown, but he’s believed to be a mixture of many dog breeds, including the Rottweiler, Black and Tan Terrier, and German Pinscher

Dogue de Bordeaux

"This dog breed‘s most famous member co-starred with Tom Hanks in the 1989 movie, Turner and Hooch. Loyal, self-assured, and territorial, the Dogue de Bordeaux requires lots of training and socialization. "

English Cocker Spaniel

English Cockers are a medium-size dog breed with long ears and a happy disposition. The name Cocker comes from their use to hunt woodcock in England, although English Cockers have been used to hunt many other types of birds as well. They make great companion dogs for people who can give them the exercise they need.

English Foxhound

"The English Foxhound was originally a hunting dog breed, designed to pursue foxes in the English countryside. Today he also enjoys life as a family companion and competes in the conformation ring. Many English Foxhounds also compete in Foxhound Performance Trials, which grade the dogs on their pack hunting skills. "

English Setter

The English Setter dog breed was named for its practice of “setting,” or crouching low, when it found birds so the hunter could throw his net over them. After the development of the gun, the dog was developed so he would stand in the more traditional Pointer style. The English Setter is still used as a hunting dog today as well as a family companion.

English Springer Spaniel

"The English Springer Spaniel dog breed was developed as a gun dog to flush, or spring, game in the field, but he’s also a popular companion. Athletic and versatile, he’s been known to participate in agility, hunt tests, tracking, obedience trials and more, and he’s a great pal to have along when you go hiking or camping. "

English Toy Spaniel

Nicknamed “Charlies” after the king who loved them, English Toy Spaniels are quieter and more reclusive than their Cavalier cousins, but they can have a mischievous spark. They tend to prefer a single person and are not a “hail fellow, well met” type of dog breed.

Entlebucher Mountain Dog

"The Entlebucher Mountain Dog has the independent spirit of other herding breeds, but still relishes spending time with his people — especially if they give him a job to do. He can be territorial and will bark to warn you of visitors. "

Field Spaniel

The sturdy, medium-sized Field Spaniel dog breed was originally developed to retrieve game from land or water. Today, while he retains his excellent hunting skills, he is mainly a family companion and show dog and is rarely seen in the field. He loves people and is a loyal family friend

Finnish Lapphund

"Believe it or not, this hard-working dog breed earned his keep herding reindeer in his native Lapland, in the far north of Finland. Friendly and gentle, the Finnish Lapphund retains a strong herding instinct. "

Finnish Spitz

Finnish Spitz were originally were bred to hunt a variety of small and large game, and then bark when they found something. Today they’re considered “talkative” companions who will keep you apprised of just about everything going on in your surroundings.

Flat-Coated Retriever

"The Flat-Coated Retriever was originally developed as a dual-purpose retriever of game on land and from water, and he’s still popular for that purpose today. He also competes in obedience, rally, and agility, is a super therapy dog, and is an ideal companion for people who are looking for an active dog breed. "

Fox Terrier

Fox Terriers were originally bred to flush foxes out of their hiding places during fox hunts. Today they’re primarily family companions and show dogs, although you’ll occasionally find them in the hunt country of the northeastern United States, still performing their traditional role.

French Bulldog

"The French Bulldog has enjoyed a long history as a companion dog. Created in England to be a miniature Bulldog, he accompanied English lacemakers to France, where he acquired his Frenchie moniker. Besides being a companion, he once served as an excellent ratter, but today his job focuses on being a fabulous family friend and show dog. He’s a rare dog breed, so expect to put in some time on a waiting list before you’re able to bring one home. "

German Pinscher

The German Pinscher dog breed is muscular and agile, powerful yet graceful. A medium-sized dog with an elegant appearance, he’s admired as much for his beauty as for his intelligence. He’s a working breed and guard dog, and a devoted and loving family dog.

German Shepherd Dog

"The German Shepherd Dog is one of America’s most popular dog breeds — for good reason. He’s an intelligent and capable working dog. His devotion and courage are unmatched. And he’s amazingly versatile, excelling at most anything he’s trained to do: guide and assistance work for the handicapped, police and military service, herding, search and rescue, drug detection, competitive obedience and, last but not least, faithful companion "

German Shorthaired Pointer

This versatile sporting dog breed hunts many types of game, retrieves on land or from water, and is an affectionate companion. He has a striking, easy-care coat, but he needs plenty of vigorous exercise. If you can provide him with the mental and physical challenges he craves, he’ll be your best four-legged friend

German Wirehaired Pointer

"The German Wirehaired Pointer was developed in the late 19th and early 20th centuries to be a versatile hunting dog breed, a job at which he still excels today. He can hunt any game on any terrain and point and retrieve from land or water. His excellent nose and stamina are appreciated by hunters worldwide, and he’s also a great companion for active families who can provide an outlet for his high energy level "

Giant Schnauzer

The Giant Schnauzer was created to be a working dog breed, so he has intelligence and drive. He can be a loyal and courageous companion for the person who can provide him with the training, exercise, and attention he needs.

Glen of Imaal Terrier

"The Glen of Imaal Terrier is a strong, independent dog breed named for the remote valley in Ireland where he originated. Bred to hunt fox and badger, and to keep homes free of rodents, the Glen is a skilled and cunning hunter. He’s also an affectionate family dog, gentle and loving with his people. "

Golden Retriever

The Golden Retriever is one of the most popular dog breeds in the U.S. The breed’s friendly, tolerant attitude makes him a fabulous family pet, and his intelligence makes him a highly capable working dog. Golden Retrievers excel at retrieving game for hunters, tracking, sniffing out drugs, and as therapy and assistance dogs. They’re also natural athletes, and do well in dog sports such as agility and competitive obedience.

Goldendoodle

"The Goldendoodle is a “designer dog,” a hybrid dog breed resulting from breeding a Poodle with a Golden Retriever. Like all other designer “breeds,” the Goldendoodle is not truly a breed of its own, but is a crossbreed — and in this case, a cross that is enjoying growing popularity. "

Gordon Setter

Originally bred to hunt pheasant and quail, Gordon Setters are still fine hunting companions and field trial competitors. Canines of this dog breed also compete in obedience, conformation, and agility and are a terrific family and companion dog.

Great Dane

"Oh, baby! A Great Dane is truly a great dog breed — large and noble, commonly referred to as a gentle giant or as the “Apollo of dogs.” Apollo is the Greek god of the sun, the brightest fixture in the sky. The Great Dane certainly holds stature in the dog world; but though he looks terribly imposing, in reality he’s one of the best-natured dogs around. For all of his size, a Great Dane is a sweet, affectionate pet. He loves to play and is gentle with children. "

Great Pyrenees

The Great Pyrenees dog breed‘s goal in life is to protect sheep, goats, livestock, people, children, grass, flowers, the moon, the lawn furniture, bird feeders, and any real or imaginary predators that may intrude on your personal space. Oh yeah, and to give, give, and give unconditional love. Anyone who has seen this stunning white dog becomes enamored. What’s not to like? He has a strong build, a beautiful, thick coat, and he exudes elegance and majesty. One look and you can see the intelligence and steady temperament that many seek in a good family dog.

Greater Swiss Mountain Dog

"The Greater Swiss Mountain dog breed was developed to be an all-around working dog, herding cattle, pulling carts, and standing guard. These days, the Swissy enjoys life as a family pet, but because of his working heritage, he enjoys being busy. This powerful breed excels in all sorts of dog sports, from agility to weight pulling. "

Greyhound

Greyhounds were originally bred as hunting dogs to chase hare, foxes, and deer. Canines in this dog breed can reach speeds of 40 to 45 miles per hour, making them the Ferraris of the dog world. Not surprisingly, Greyhounds made a name for themselves as racing dogs and are still used in racing today. They also participate in many other dog sports, including lure coursing, conformation, obedience, and agility. Beyond their grace and speed, people love them for their sweet, mild nature.

Harrier

Harriers originally were bred to hunt hares and foxes. Today, the dog breed isn’t especially popular, but his excellent sense of smell and tireless work ethic makes him a great fit for hunters

Havanese

The Havanese dog breed has won many admirers with his long, silky hair, expressive eyes, and cuddly size. Bred as a companion dog to the Cuban aristocracy in the 1800s, he’s earned the nickname “Velcro dog” because he sticks so closely to his owner’s side. But don’t write him off as just a lapdog; the Havanese is trainable and surprisingly energetic, and has excelled in dog sports and canine careers ranging from circus performer to assisting the handicapped

Ibizan Hound

The Ibizan Hound was originally bred to hunt rabbits and small game on the Balearic island of Ibiza. Today, the Ibizan Hound dog breed is still used in that capacity in Spain and elsewhere. Ibizan Hounds also compete in lure coursing, agility, obedience, conformation, and tracking, in addition to being much-loved family companions.

Icelandic Sheepdog

"Thought to be companions to the ancient Vikings, the Icelandic Sheepdog dog breed was used to protect flocks, especially lambs, from birds of prey. They still retain the habit of watching the sky and barking at birds — as well as everything else they see or hear. "

Irish Red and White Setter

The Red and White Irish Setter dog breed barely escaped extinction when most breeders began focusing on the all-red varieties. Now they’re considered a separate breed from their Irish Setter cousins. As gundogs, they’re slow to train but eventually become loyal and reliable hunters.

Irish Setter

"Irish Setters originated as gundogs in their native Ireland, and the dog breed‘s popularity soon spread, thanks to the beauty of their rich mahogany coat and their enthusiasm as bird dogs. They’re friendly, mischievous, and inquisitive, with a high energy level. This is a bold and boisterous family friend with the potential to do well in many canine sports and activities. "

Irish Terrier

The Irish Terrier dog breed was once described as the “poor man’s sentinel, the farmer’s friend, and the gentleman’s favorite.” Rugged and stouthearted, he has the advantages of a convenient size, versatile abilities as a companion, watchdog, and vermin dispatcher, and high train-ability.

Irish Water Spaniel

"Whether he’s splashing after ducks or showing off in the agility ring, canines in the Irish Water Spaniel dog breed do everything with a sense of fun. Created in Ireland as a water retriever, he’s rare these days, but makes an excellent companion for active and experienced dog owners — especially if they live near a body of water. "

Icelandic Sheepdog

"Thought to be companions to the ancient Vikings, the Icelandic Sheepdog dog breed was used to protect flocks, especially lambs, from birds of prey. They still retain the habit of watching the sky and barking at birds — as well as everything else they see or hear. "

Irish Wolfhound

The Irish Wolfhound dog breed was originally used in war to drag men off horses and chariots. He also hunted large game such as deer, boar, and wolves. Today this adaptable dog is a family companion who also competes in obedience, tracking, and lure coursing

Italian Greyhound

The Italian Greyhound dog breed was a favorite companion of noblewomen in the Middle Ages, especially in Italy. But this small hound was more than a lap dog, having the speed, endurance, and determination to hunt small game. These days, he’s a family dog whose beauty and athleticism is admired in the show ring and in obedience, agility, and rally competitions

Jack Russell Terrier

Developed in England some 200 years ago to hunt foxes, the Jack Russell Terrier, also known as the Parson Russell Terrier, is a lively, independent, and clever little dog. He’s charming and affectionate, but he’s also a handful to train and manage. For experienced dog owners only!

Japanese Chin

The Japanese Chin dog breed hails from Asia, where he has been prized as a companion for more than a thousand years. He was a popular member of Chinese and Japanese imperial courts, and it was in Japan that his distinctive look was developed. This breed is elegant and dainty, mild-mannered and playful.

Keeshond

The Keeshond is an old dog breed, once a companion and watchdog on the barges and boats that traveled the canals and rivers of Holland in the 17th and 18th centuries. He’s almost exclusively a companion dog today. He’s a people-lover; willing to participate in all family activities, he thrives with people who expect this of their dog. He is lively, alert, and intelligent — qualities that won him status as the most beloved dog in Holland.

Kerry Blue Terrier

The Kerry Blue Terrier is the quintessential working dog. He hails from County Kerry, Ireland, where he was bred to hunt small game and birds, kill rodents, and herd sheep and cattle. Intelligent and brave, he became a cherished pet as well, displaying fierce devotion to his family or pack. While not a particularly well-known dog breed, the Kerry Blue enjoys a dedicated following of fanciers, thanks to his working abilities and loyal companionship.

Komondor

"His appearance might make you think he was developed to mop floors, but the Komondor has a long and noble heritage as a flock-guarding dog breed in his native Hungary. He still retains a strong protective instinct and will defend his family and property with his life. "

Kooikerhondje

This good-natured hunting dog breed makes an affectionate family companion. Suspected to be an ancestor of the Nova Scota Duck Tolling Retriever, he hails from Holland and was used to lure ducks into traps for hunting or tagging. He still serves as a hunting dog, but also excels at other dog sports such as flyball.

Korean Jindo Dog

"Originating in South Korea, the Jindo exhibit unmatched loyalty. They are incredibly intelligent dogs with a knack for hunting, tricks, and even agility. They are fastidious and quiet indoors, making them great household pets and companions. The Jindo dog requires strong training, patience, and plenty of long walks. They are a good fit for active individuals and families who have enough time to let their wonderful personalities shine through. "

Kuvasz

The Kuvasz is a large, white flock-guarding dog who hails from Hungary. A one-family dog, he’s protective of his people and suspicious of strangers. The Kuvasz thinks for himself and can be challenging to train.

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