by Sheryl Matthys | May 1, 2015 | Breeds Groups, Hybrid Dogs |
Joyful and endearing, the Cockapoo is the original “designer dog.” Vital Stats Height: Teacup Toy, under 10 inches at shoulder; Toy, up to 10 inches at shoulder; Miniature, 11 to 14 inches at shoulder; Standard/Maxi, at least 15 inches at shoulder Weight:...
by Sheryl Matthys | May 1, 2015 | Breeds Groups, Herding Dogs |
This energetic multitasker is intelligent and devoted. Vital Stats Height: 13 to 16 inches at shoulder Weight: about 20 pounds Coat: long and dense Life span: 12 to 15 years Summary Shetland Sheepdogs stood guard for farmers in the Shetland Islands off the coast of...
by Sheryl Matthys | May 1, 2015 | Breeds Groups, Herding Dogs |
This small French herding dog is a super athlete with a cheerful disposition and quicksilver intelligence. Vital Stats Height: 15 to 21 inches at the shoulder Weight: 25 to 30 pounds Coat: two varieties, rough or smooth Life span: 15 years or more Summary These lean...
by Sheryl Matthys | May 1, 2015 | Breeds Groups, Herding Dogs |
He’s not a dog, he’s a Puli. Vital Stats Height: 16 to 17 inches at shoulder Weight: 25 to 35 pounds Coat: long and fluffy; or long and corded Life span: 10 to 15 years or more Summary Best known for his long, corded coat resembling dreadlocks, the Puli is...
by Sheryl Matthys | May 1, 2015 | Breeds Groups, Herding Dogs |
Underneath his shaggy exterior, the Polish Lowland Sheepdog is a clever and perceptive companion. Vital Stats Height: 17 to 20 inches at shoulder Weight: 35 to 55 pounds (males average 50 pounds, females average 40 pounds) Coat: shaggy and long Life span: 10 to 12...
by Sheryl Matthys | May 1, 2015 | Breeds Groups, Herding Dogs |
Known as the Fairy Dog of Wales, this energetic herding dog is both playful and intelligent. Vital Stats Height: 10 to 12 inches at shoulder Weight: up to 30 pounds Coat: medium-length and thick Life span: 12 to 14 years Summary Originally bred to herd cattle, sheep,...
by Sheryl Matthys | May 1, 2015 | Breeds Groups, Herding Dogs |
The keen, kind Old English Sheepdog makes a great–and a great big–family dog. Vital Stats Height: 21 inches at shoulder and up Weight: males are 80 to 100 pounds; females are 60 to 85 pounds Coat: thick and shaggy Life span: 10 to 12 years or more Summary...
by Sheryl Matthys | May 1, 2015 | Breeds Groups, Herding Dogs |
Once a hunter of bear and wolf, this lively Spitz breed is now a versatile companion. Vital Stats Height: 16 to 18.5 inches at shoulder Weight: 26 to 40 pounds Coat: thick double coat Life span: 12 to 15 years or more Summary Intelligent, independent, and eager to...
by Sheryl Matthys | May 1, 2015 | Breeds Groups, Herding Dogs |
This short, sweet herding breed hides a terrier personality beneath a Corgi-like appearance. Vital Stats Height: 10 to 12 inches at shoulder Weight: about 14 pounds Coat: coarse and thick Life span: 9 to 14 years Summary The Lancashire Heeler was once used to drive...
by Sheryl Matthys | May 1, 2015 | Breeds Groups, Herding Dogs |
As rugged as his native Iceland, this herding dog is also smart, agile, and affectionate. Vital Stats Height: 16.5 to 18 inches at shoulder Weight: 20 to 30 pounds Coat: thick, medium-length or longer Life span: 14 to 15 years Summary Thought to be companions to the...
by Sheryl Matthys | May 1, 2015 | Breeds Groups, Herding Dogs |
The German Shepherd Dog is loyal, protective, and intelligent. Vital Stats Height: 22 to 26 inches at shoulder Weight: 75 to 95 pounds Coat: medium-length and dense Life span: 10 to 14 years Summary The German Shepherd Dog is one of America’s most popular...
by Sheryl Matthys | May 1, 2015 | Breeds Groups, Herding Dogs |
This Arctic spitz breed once herded reindeer, maybe even for Santa! Vital Stats Height: 17.5 to 20.5 inches at shoulder Weight: 33 to 53 pounds Coat: long and profuse Life span: 12 to 15 years or older Summary Believe it or not, this hard-working dog earned his keep...
by Sheryl Matthys | May 1, 2015 | Breeds Groups, Herding Dogs |
Aka Entlebucher Mountain Dog, this sturdy and devoted Swiss native is a fine family friend. You can bank on it. Vital Stats Height: 16 to 20 inches at shoulder Weight: 45 to 65 pounds Coat: dense and shor Life span: 10 to 13 years Summary The Entlebucher Mountain Dog...
by Sheryl Matthys | May 1, 2015 | Breeds Groups, Herding Dogs |
The Dutch Shepherd is an old herding breed of Dutch origin. In the old days the farmers needed a dog with few demands, a jack-of-all-trades, and a versatile dog. Vital Stats Height: 22-25 inches Weight: 65-67 pounds Coat: Three varieties: long-haired (straight, flat),...
by Sheryl Matthys | May 1, 2015 | Breeds Groups, Herding Dogs |
The sweet, intelligent, and loyal Collie is a Scottish legend. Vital Stats Height: 22 to 26 inches at shoulder Weight: 50 to 70 pounds Coat: long and harsh; or short and dense Life span: 10 to 14 years Summary The Collie is a native of Scotland, mostly of the Highland...
by Sheryl Matthys | May 1, 2015 | Breeds Groups, Herding Dogs |
Meet Louisiana’s state dog. Vital Stats Height: 20 to 26 inches at shoulder Weight: 50 to 90 pounds Coat: short to medium-length coat of many colors Life span: 10 to 14 years Summary The Catahoula has a striking appearance and a strong work ethic. He’s a...
by Sheryl Matthys | May 1, 2015 | Breeds Groups, Herding Dogs |
This breed may be a living portrait of early domesticated dogs. Vital Stats Height: 19 to 24 inches at shoulder Weight: 35 to 55 pounds (males average 50 pounds, females average 40 pounds) Coat: short and harsh Life span: 12 to 15 years Summary The Canaan Dog is a...
by Sheryl Matthys | May 1, 2015 | Breeds Groups, Herding Dogs |
Vital Stats Height: 22 to 27 inches at shoulder Weight: 70 to 100 pounds Coat: long and wavy Life span: 10 to 12 years or more Summary Underneath the Briard’s long, shaggy coat lies a bold spirit and keen intelligence. True to his French roots, he can be aloof...
by Sheryl Matthys | May 1, 2015 | Breeds Groups, Herding Dogs |
Not afraid of a mess or the mud, the hard-working Bouvier des Flandres is a charming family companion. Vital Stats Height: 23 to 28 inches at shoulder Weight: 70 to 100 pounds Coat: long and coarse Life span: 10 to 12 years Summary The Bouvier des Flandres was...
by Sheryl Matthys | May 1, 2015 | Breeds Groups, Herding Dogs |
The intuitive and intelligent Border Collie is a world-class herding dog. Vital Stats Height: 18 to 22 inches at shoulder Weight: 30 to 45 pounds Coat: coarse; can be short or medium-long Life span: 12 to 15 years Summary The Border Collie was developed to gather and...
by Sheryl Matthys | May 1, 2015 | Breeds Groups, Herding Dogs |
His shaggy looks and comic nature hide a long and distinguished history. Vital Stats Height: 21 to 25.5 inches at shoulder Weight: 50 to 70 pounds Coat: rough and medium-length Life span: 13 to 14 years Summary Also known as the Picardy Shepherd, the Berger Picard is...
by Sheryl Matthys | May 1, 2015 | Breeds Groups, Herding Dogs |
This herding breed from Belgium is an alert, active, and energetic companion. Vital Stats Height: 21 to 26.5 inches at shoulder Weight: 40 to 70 pounds (males average 62 pounds, females average 47 pounds) Coat: long and moderately harsh Life span: 10 to 12 years...
by Sheryl Matthys | May 1, 2015 | Breeds Groups, Herding Dogs |
Elegant in black, this longhaired beauty also has brains and a strong work ethic. Vital Stats Height: 22 to 26 inches at shoulder Weight: 60 to 75 pounds Coat: harsh and long Life span: 10 to 12 years or more Summary This medium-size herding dog originated in Belgium...
by Sheryl Matthys | May 1, 2015 | Herding Dogs |
Whether he’s herding, doing police work, competing in dog sports, or being a family friend and protector, the Malinois does everything to the max. Vital Stats Height: 22 to 26 inches at shoulder Weight: 40 to 80 pounds (males average 70 pounds, females average...
by Sheryl Matthys | May 1, 2015 | Breeds Groups, Herding Dogs |
he bouncy, boisterous Beardie clowns his way through life. Vital Stats Height: 20 to 22 inches at shoulder Weight: 45 to 55 pounds Coat: shaggy and long Life span: 12 to 14 years Summary The Bearded Collie was developed in Scotland to herd sheep and cattle in any...
by Sheryl Matthys | May 1, 2015 | Breeds Groups, Herding Dogs |
Give this dog a job and he’ll love it. Vital Stats Height: 18 to 23 inches at shoulder Weight: 40 to 65 pounds (males average 57 pounds, females average 47 pounds) Coat: medium-length; wavy or straight Life span: 12 to 15 years Summary Despite his name, the...
by Sheryl Matthys | May 1, 2015 | Breeds Groups, Herding Dogs |
The Australian Cattle Dog isn’t just tough, he’s also smart and loyal. Vital Stats Height: 17 to 20 inches at shoulder Weight: 30 to 50 pounds Coat: short and straight Life span: 12 to 15 years Summary The Australian Cattle Dog is an extremely...
by Sheryl Matthys | Apr 30, 2015 | Breeds Groups, Herding Dogs |
No Swiss miss here: This is an athletic herding dog and livestock guardian. Vital Stats Height: 19.5 to 22 inches at shoulder Weight: 48 to 55 pounds Coat: thick and shiny Life span: 9 to 12 years Summary The Appenzeller originated as an all-around farm dog, who...
by Sheryl Matthys | Apr 30, 2015 | Breeds Groups, Companion Dogs |
Vital Stats Height: 10 to 14 inches at shoulder Weight: 14 to 18 pounds Coat: short and smooth Life span: 12 to 15 years Summary Pugs often are described as a lot of dog in a small space. These sturdy, compact dogs are a part of the American Kennel Club’s Toy...
by Sheryl Matthys | Apr 30, 2015 | Breeds Groups, Companion Dogs |
Cocky, commanding, and animated, the pint-size Pomeranian is always an entertaining companion. Vital Stats Height: 7 to 12 inches at shoulder Weight: 3 to 7 pounds, though some can reach 12 to 14 pounds Coat: soft and fluffy Life span: 12 to 16 years Summary Descended...
by Sheryl Matthys | Apr 30, 2015 | Breeds Groups, Companion Dogs |
The lion dog of imperial China is now a king of hearts. Vital Stats Height: 6 to 9 inches at shoulder Weight: 7 to 14 pounds Coat: long and thick Life span: 12 to 15 years Summary Pekingese were bred for centuries to be the cherished companions of the imperial family...
by Sheryl Matthys | Apr 29, 2015 | Breeds Groups, Companion Dogs |
Don’t let the delicate package fool you–though the Papillon will fit on your lap, this extrovert is happiest romping around and making friends. Vital Stats Height: 8 to 11 inches at shoulder Weight: 4 to 9 pounds Coat: long and silky Life span: 12 to 16...
by Sheryl Matthys | Apr 29, 2015 | Breeds Groups, Companion Dogs |
The Miniature Pinscher reigns as the “King of Toys.” Vital Stats Height: 10 to 12.5 inches at shoulder Weight: 8 to 11 pounds Coat: short and sleek Life span: 10 to 14 years Summary The Miniature Pinscher was originally bred in Germany to hunt vermin,...
by Sheryl Matthys | Apr 29, 2015 | Breeds Groups, Companion Dogs |
The Maltese has been a treasured companion dog for more than 2,000 years.
by Sheryl Matthys | Apr 29, 2015 | Breeds Groups, Companion Dogs |
The lion-hearted Lowchen is courageous and charismatic. Vital Stats Height: 12 to 14 inches at shoulder Weight: 9 to 18 pounds Coat: soft and long Life span: 13 to 15 years Summary The Lowchen is a toy breed that was developed as a companion dog and still finds itself...
by Sheryl Matthys | Apr 29, 2015 | Breeds Groups, Companion Dogs |
The lionhearted Lhasa Apso is a protective, loyal family companion. Vital Stats Height: 9 to 11 inches at shoulder Weight: 12 to 15 pounds Coat: long and straight Life span: 12 to 15 years or more Summary The Lhasa Apso is originally from Tibet, where he was a highly...
by Sheryl Matthys | Apr 29, 2015 | Breeds Groups, Companion Dogs |
Friendship is this loving Dutchman’s number-one goal. Vital Stats Height: 16 to 19 inches at shoulder Weight: 35 to 45 pounds Coat: medium-length and thick Life span: 12 to 15 years or older Summary The Keeshond is an old breed, once a companion and watchdog on...
by Sheryl Matthys | Apr 29, 2015 | Breeds Groups, Companion Dogs |
Agile and entertaining, the high-flying Japanese Chin is more than just a pampered pet. Vital Stats Height: 8 to 11 inches at shoulder Weight: 4 to 9 pounds Coat: long and silky Life span: 10 to 14 years with some reaching 16 years of age Summary The Japanese Chin...
by Sheryl Matthys | Apr 29, 2015 | Breeds Groups, Companion Dogs |
With a personality that’s as sunny as his native island of Cuba, the Havanese is a fun and devoted companion. Vital Stats Height: 8.5 to 11.5 inches at shoulder Weight: 7 to 13 pounds Coat: long and silky Life span: 12 to 15 years or older Summary The Havanese...
by Sheryl Matthys | Apr 29, 2015 | Breeds Groups, Companion Dogs |
His unique appearance and mischievous nature make the Frenchie a well-loved breed. Vital Stats Height: 11 to 12 inches at shoulder Weight: 16 to 28 pounds Coat: short and smooth Life span: 11 to 14 years Summary The French Bulldog has enjoyed a long history as a...
by Sheryl Matthys | Apr 29, 2015 | Breeds Groups, Companion Dogs |
This distinctive dog has a noble character and history. Vital Stats Height: 10 to 11 inches at shoulder Weight: 8 to 14 pounds Coat: long and silky Life span: 10 to 12 years or more Summary Nicknamed “Charlies” after the king who loved them, English Toy...
by Sheryl Matthys | Apr 29, 2015 | Breeds Groups, Companion Dogs |
Consider this breed if you are an active person who can provide plenty of training, socialization, and opportunities for hearty exercise. Vital Stats Height: 19 to 24 inches at shoulder Weight: 48 to 55 pounds Coat: short and satiny Life span: 13 to 16 years Summary...
by Sheryl Matthys | Apr 29, 2015 | Breeds Groups, Companion Dogs |
The sweet-natured, cottony-coated companion absolutely lives for his person and easily adapts to his household’s lifestyle and needs. Vital Stats Height: 8.5 to 12.5 inches at shoulder Weight: 8 to 13 pounds Coat: white, fluffy, and thick Life span: 14 years or...
by Sheryl Matthys | Apr 29, 2015 | Breeds Groups, Companion Dogs |
Called ugly by some, a Chinese Crested proves that beauty is in the eye of the beholder. Vital Stats Height: 11 to 13 inches at shoulder Weight: up to 12 pounds Coat: none except for a few tufts; or long and silky Life span: 10 to 14 years Summary The Chinese Crested...
by Sheryl Matthys | Apr 29, 2015 | Breeds Groups, Companion Dogs |
Meet the world’s smallest dog. Vital Stats Height: 6 to 9 inches at shoulder Weight: 3 to 6 pounds Coat: smooth or long Life span: 10 to 18 years Summary The Chihuahua’s charms include his small size, outsize personality, and variety in coat types and...
by Sheryl Matthys | Apr 29, 2015 | Breeds Groups, Companion Dogs |
Lap-loving but lively, the Cavalier makes friends wherever he goes. Vital Stats Height: 12 to 13 inches at shoulder Weight: 13 to 18 pounds Coat: medium-length and silky Life span: 9 to 15 years Summary Although he’s born to be a companion, the Cavalier King...
by Sheryl Matthys | Apr 29, 2015 | Breeds Groups, Companion Dogs |
Vital Stats Height: 12 to 15 inches at shoulder Weight: 40 to 50 pounds Coat: short and smooth Life span: 8 to 12 years Summary Bulldogs originally were used to drive cattle to market and to compete in a bloody sport called bullbaiting. Today, they’re gentle...
by Sheryl Matthys | Apr 27, 2015 | Breeds Groups, Companion Dogs |
The Boston Terrier is one of only a few dogs with the distinction of being “Made in America.” Vital Stats Height: 12 to 15 inches at shoulder Weight: 10 to 25 pounds Coat: short and smooth Life span: 13 to 15 years Summary Boston Terriers have been popular...
by Sheryl Matthys | Apr 27, 2015 | Breeds Groups, Companion Dogs |
Not just another white fluffy dog. Vital Stats Height: 9 to 12.5 inches Weight: 8 to 14 pounds Coat: white ringlets Life span: 12 to 14 years Summary A true companion dog, the Bolognese loves to be at his family’s side. However, he also loves getting his way and...
by Sheryl Matthys | Apr 27, 2015 | Breeds Groups, Companion Dogs |
Happy, charming and independent, the Bichon Frise is an engaging companion. Vital Stats Height: 9 to 11 inches at shoulder Weight: 7 to 12 pounds Coat: soft and fluffy Life span: 12 to 15 years Summary The Bichon Frise (pronounced BEE-shawn FREE-say; the plural is...
by Sheryl Matthys | Apr 27, 2015 | Breeds Groups, Companion Dogs |
With his fluffy white coat and bouncy personality, the American Eskimo Dog is truly “the dog beautiful.” Vital Stats Height: Toy, 9 to 12 inches at shoulder; Miniature, 12 to 15 inches at shoulder; Standard, 15 to 19 inches at shoulder Weight: Toy, about...
by Sheryl Matthys | Apr 27, 2015 | Breeds Groups, Companion Dogs |
Beautiful, sophisticated, and intelligent, the Poodle stands out in the crowd. Vital Stats Height: Toy, up to 10 inches at shoulder; Miniatures, 11 to 15 inches at shoulder; Standards, about 22 inches at shoulder Weight: Toys, 6 to 9 pounds; Miniatures, 15 to 17... 
