Affenpinscher
Size: Small  Terrier-like personality; demands attention. Affectionate, amusing and can be difficult to house break. Yappy, high strung, some may guard objects and challenge people it sees as submissive. Can be trained to perform tricks. Needs consistent firm training.

Afghan Hound
Size: Large  Sweet, dignified, somewhat aloof, sensitive, loyal and affectionate. If under socialized, pampered and over protected, they can be nervous and timid. Suspicious of, but not hostile to strangers. Should have safe fenced in area to run. Can be hard to housebreak; may snap if frightened or startled.

Airedale Terrier
Size: Medium  Playful and rowdy as a puppy. Dignified and courageous as an adult. Protective with a strong desire to please. Sensitive and responsive. Can be scrappy with other animals. Bold and stubborn. May try to be dominate over submissive family members. Needs firm consistent, but fair obedience training.

Akita Inu
Size: Large   Dignified, good-natured, alert, bold, courageous and loyal. Docile, but sometimes spontaneous.  Intelligent, fearless and very willful. Needs firm training as a puppy. Can be very aggressive with other dogs. Good with children in the family, but may not accept other children. May be food-possessive. 

Alaskan Malamute
Size: Large   Very friendly, not a guard dog. Good with kids. Without attention they can become destructive nuisances. Likes to roam and has a strong pray instinct. Can be dog aggressive. Can be a digger. Seasonal heavy shedder; does not bark a lot but it does howl. This breed can be difficult to housebreak because of its dominance.

American Bulldog
Size: Large   Brave and determined, but not hostile. Alert, self-confident. Loves children. Strong protective instincts; should be well-socialized and obedience trained at an early age. May be dog aggressive and reserved with strangers. Needs to be around people to be truly happy. Tends to drool and slobber. Should have a dominant owner.

American Cocker Spaniel
Size: Small   Merry, charming; a happy tail-wagger. Good friend to children. Loves to play. Some bark a lot; can be difficult to housebreak. Very popular breed; beware of poorly bred dogs as they can have many temperament problems.  

American Eskimo Dog
Size: Medium   Charming, affectionate and loving. Hardy and playful. Highly intelligent and willing to please. Needs attention, something to do and to be part of the family or it may engage in nuisance activities. Loves to bark. Some can be timid. Naturally wary of strangers. 

American Foxhound
Size: Large   Very vigorous but submissive dog. Needs a great deal of exercise or it may become destructive and restless. Sweet, gentle, brave and intense in the field. Can be difficult to housebreak. Will take off after in interesting scent. May howl when it hears other dogs barking.  

American Hairless Terrier
Size: Small   Intelligent, alert, loving, very inquisitive and lively. Quick and very playful. Fairly territorial and stubborn. Some are friendly with strangers, some are reserved. Not good swimmers. Skin vulnerability brought on by the lack of a protective coat. This breed may be slightly difficult to train.

American Pit Bull Terrier
Size: Large   Obedient; strong desire to please. Good-natured, extremely courageous and loyal. Affectionate, good with children and adults. Do not trust with other pets; tends to be dog aggressive. Socialize when young. Highly protective of its owners, needs firm hand and a dominant owner. Excellent dog with the right owner, but not recommended for most people.

American Staffordshire Terrier
Size: Medium   Very loyal and devoted.  Highly protective of his owners and their property. Courageous, persistent and can be willful. Needs a firm hand, proper training and a dominant owner. Can be dog aggressive. Excellent dog when raised and handled properly, but not recommended for most people. 

American Water Spaniel
Size: Medium   Friendly intelligent, very trainable, enjoys working. Eagar to learn.  Un-socialized dogs can be timid and dog aggressive. Highly sensitive; training should be calm, quiet and persuasive not demanding or sharp. Some drool, some bark or whine a lot. May snap defensively if startled or harshly disciplined.

American White Shepherd
Size: Large   Intelligent, loyal, fearless, alert, bold, cheerful and obedient. Can be trained for many different tasks. Strong protecting instincts; needs an owner who can show leadership. Can be reserved with strangers. Needs to be with his people. Beware of over breeding producing inferior dogs. Socialize well while young. Sheds constantly; seasonally heavy.

Anatolian Shepherd Dog
Size: Very Large   Very loyal, alert, proud, self assured and possessive. Independent flock guardian; needs dominant leadership and an owner who understands its nature. Very protective of its family and property. Suspicious of strangers. Needs extensive early socialization.

Appenzell Mountain Dog
Size: Large   Tough, sober, brave, intelligent, and lively. Unsure of strangers, but greet family and friends effusively. Loyal to whole family, tends to bond with one person. Likes to be outdoors, but only when it is with its handler. Noisy, extroverted; makes a great watch dog. Not a dog for kennel life. Socialize well.

Australian Cattle Dog
Size: Medium   Working, herding breed. Extremely intelligent. Not suited to life alone in the back yard. Becomes easily bored and needs a job to do or it could lead to serious behavior problems. Excellent guard dog, brave and trustworthy. May nip at peoples heels in an attempt to herd them. Needs a lot of attention and exercise.

Australian Kelpie
Size: Medium   Intelligent, enthusiastic, and tireless working dog. Will work until he drops. Excellent herder; devoted one-man dog; far too work-oriented and energetic for a house or apartment existence. Needs job to do and a lot of space and exercise. Tries to herd other dogs, pets and animals whether they want to be herded or not. Boredom is the dogs doom.

Australian Shepherd
Size: Medium   Easy going, loves to play with active children. Naturally protective, courageous, loyal and affectionate. Highly intelligent, very active; needs a job to do and a lot of space and exercise. Gets bored easily and can be come destructive and nervous if left alone too much without exercise and attention.

Australian Terrier
Size: Small    Excellent watchdog. Loves to please, spirited, self-assured and curious.  Will chase rodents and other small animals. Bred to work; always on the move.  Friendly companion, reserved with strangers.

Cairn Terrier
Size: Very Small   Lovable, friendly, alert and independent. Fearless and hardy; a restless little busybody. Curious and mischievous. Naturally patient  and very playful with children. Needs attention and may bark executively or become destructive without it. Requires firm but gentle discipline and training. 

Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
Size: Small   Sweet little tail-wagger. Affectionate; needs people to be happy; should not be left along all day. Naturally well behaved and wants to please. Needs gentle obedience training. Likes to chase. Does not do well in very warm conditions. Loves to play outdoors.

Cesky Terrier
Size: Small   Protective, rugged little dog with working instincts. Loves to be around people. Playful, outgoing, sweet and happy. Laid-back and more trainable then some other terriers. Quieter then most terriers, but some like to bark.

Chesapeake Bay Retriever
Size: Large   Intelligent, brave, enthusiastic and trainable. Good with children. More aggressive and willful then other retrievers. Reserved with strangers. Needs firm training.  Requires a dominant owner who can show leadership or it may lead to dominance problems. Likes to swim and retrieve. Needs daily vigorous exercise.

Chihuahua
Size: Very Small   Bold, fast, strong-willed little dog. Very loyal and gives and demands attention and affection. Tends to bond strongly to one person and will fiercely protect them. May snap if irritated or teased. Likes to bark. Gets cold easily. Can be difficult to housebreak. Reserved with strangers.

Chinese Crested (hairless)
Size: Small   Intelligent, happy, affectionate little entertaining companion. Sweet, playful and lively. Socialize when young to avoid possible timidity. Likes to climb, and dig. Little grooming as far as hair goes but the skin needs special care and attention. Very clean dog with no doggie odor.

Chow Chow
Size: Medium   Often very loyal to one person, however some are reserved even with them. Willful, bossy and protective; needs a dominant owner that can show strong leadership. Can be aggressive. Socialize well when young. Training should begin right from the start. Sensitive to the heat.

Clumber Spaniel
Size: Medium   Affectionate and kind. Very independent, but well behaved, quiet and steady. Playful and active as a puppy. Tendency to be a one person dog. Willful and reserved with strangers. Puppies may be submissive urinators. Likes to chew; needs lots of chew toys.

Cocker Spaniel
Size: Small   Devoted, playful little tail-wagger. Needs to be with his people. Good child companion. Socialize well while young to avoid timidity. Can be difficult to housebreak. Beware of inferior dogs due to over- breeding. Some like to bark. Average intelligence.

Collie (Rough and Smooth)
Size: Large   Very intelligent, loyal and kind. Very devoted to his family. Can be willful. Sensitive and must be training gently or it will refuse to obey. Puppies may nip a peoples heels in an attempt to herd. Puppies housebreak quickly. Sheds heavily three weeks out of the year. Sensitive to heat. Beware of over breeding. 1 hour a week of grooming needed.

Curly-Coated Retriever
Size: Large   Very intelligent, trainable. Loyal and eager to please. Sensitive, needs firm, but gentle obedience training. Socialize well at young age or may be reserved. Will protect family if needed. Loves to swim. Coat should not be brushed, but needs to be washed. Daily vigorous exercise needed. 

Dachshund
Size: Very Small   Affectionate, curious, lively, proud, bold and obstinate. Can be willful but clownish. Good dog to travel with. Can be difficult to housebreak. Likes to dig and bark. May snap if provoked. Beware of over breeding producing inferior dogs. Beware of deaf puppies. 

Dalmatian
Size: Medium   Intelligent, playful, happy, and somewhat high-strung. Needs human companionship; does not make a good yard dog. May be timid without enough socialization. Needs daily vigorous exercise. Excellent jogging companion. Very active indoors. Can be willful. Constant shedder. May be dog aggressive. 

Dandie Dinmont Terrier
Size: Small   Lively, affectionate and high-spirited. Determined and stubborn. Reserved, bold; protective of its home and family. Dominance levels vary greatly. May be dog aggressive. Likes to bark. May take off after another small animal; should have safe fenced yard. 

Doberman Pinscher
Size: Large   Intelligent, and very versatile. Outstanding guard dog; determined and fearless. Loyal, noble, very protective and affectionate with its family; likes to be physically close to them. Very people oriented. Need an owner who can display leadership. Socialize while young. Needs consistent obedience training. Vigorous daily exercise needed.

Dogo Argentino
Size: Large   A loyal guardian; playful and intelligent. Needs a firm, consistent, loving hand. High dominance level; can be dog aggressive. Needs dominant owner that can handle the dog at all times. Not a breed for everyone. Will guard home and family. Good with children.

Dogue de Bordeaux
Size: Very Large    Extremely loyal, highly protective, patient and very dedicated to his family. Fearless; very wary of strangers and will confront them. Can be very dog aggressive. Socialize well while young.  Drools and snores. Needs owner who knows how to display leadership. Slightly difficult to train.

English Cocker Spaniel
Size: Medium   Intelligent, affectionate, sweet, outgoing and energetic. Loves to play, but does not take to teasing. Needs to be with its people. Some can be reserved. Temperaments vary depending on the dogs lines. Independent and sensitive; train firmly but gently. Some females can be dominant and need a dominant owner who knows how to be a leader.

English Foxhound
Size: Large   A Courageous, zealous hunter. Friendly and obedient, but training takes patience. Prefers the company of other dogs. Can be destructive if confined. Needs a lot of exercise and space to run. Likes to bay. Excellent with children.

English Setter
Size: Large   Mild-mannered, friendly, gentle, eager and active. Sensitive, should not be treated harshly. Train early to avoid bad habits. Likes to roam. Can be difficult to housebreak. Daily vigorous exercise needed. Loves affection and needs to be with its people. Likes to bark. 

English Springer Spaniel
Size: Medium   A happy tail-wagger that loves everyone. Brave, playful, gentle and energetic. Needs a lot of exercise to be happy. Can be destructive if left along too long. May be aggressive with same sex dogs. Beware of a hereditary disorder called "Rage" Where an otherwise normal dog will suddenly become vicious and attack. 

English Toy Spaniel
Size: Very Small   Cheerful, loving, gentle, quiet and playful. Can be timid. Intelligent, but may be stubborn. Can be a picky eater. Reserved with strangers. Should be protected from temperature extremes. Good for apartment life. May snore and wheeze.

Field Spaniel
Size: Medium   Intelligent, mild-mannered and very friendly; loves everyone. Playful and active; needs a lot of exercise. Can be timid if not properly socialized when young.  Likes to roam.

Finnish Spitz
Size: Small   Very playful, friendly, enthusiastic, and somewhat aloof, but enjoys and demands attention. Protective. Loves to bark and has many different vocalizations. May bark obsessively especially if left along outside. Matures slowly. Can be reserved with strangers. May be dog aggressive.

Flat-Coated Retriever
Size: Large   Great family dog. Intelligent, even-tempered, active, playful and friendly. Loves everyone. Highly trainable, but gets bored easily. Needs a lot of attention and affection from its family and vigorous daily exercise.

Fox Terrier
Size: Small   Vigorous and full of life. Lovable, bold enthusiastic, playful and affectionate. Brave, scrappy and very impulsive. Will pick fights with other dogs. Likes to roam. Willful; needs firm obedience training. Likes to bark. Great at learning tricks.

French Bulldog
Size: Small   Playful, affectionate, sweet, bright and easy-going. Often bonds strongly to one person. Needs to be with his people or he will not be happy. Willful, but trainable with patience. Can be snappish if uncomfortable or irritated. Can not swim. May snore, drool and wheeze. Sensitive to temperature extremes. Tendency to pass gas.

German Pinscher
Size: Small   Has sense of humor. Sober, loyal and protective with considerable stamina. Lively, docile; a vocal guard dog. Can be stubborn. Needs a dominant owner that knows how to be a leader. Will instinctively protect and tends to bite first and think later. Will not back away from a dog fight.

German Shepherd Dog
Size: Large   Intelligent, loyal, fearless, alert, bold, cheerful and obedient. Can be trained for many different tasks. Strong protecting instincts; needs an owner who can show leadership. Can be reserved with strangers. Needs to be with his people. Beware of over breeding producing inferior dogs. Socialize well while young. Sheds constantly; seasonally heavy.

German Shorthaired Pointer
Size: Large   Intelligent, very energetic, lively and friendly. Needs to be with its people in order to be happy. Willing to please. Vigorous daily exercised needed. Needs at least a 6 foot fence; if bored they may try to escape. Likes to bark. Can be dog aggressive.

German Wirehaired Pointer
Size: Large   Very affectionate, intelligent, serious and naturally reserved with strangers. Can be willful and somewhat high strung. Socialized while young. Can be dog aggressive. Very active indoors, vigorous daily exercise needed to prevent extreme indoor restlessness. Likes to roam.

Giant Schnauzer
Size: Large    Intelligent, calm, loyal, strong-willed, bold and very protective. This dominant breed needs a dominant owner and an experienced trainer. Reserved with strangers. Very dog aggressive. Vigorous daily exercise needed; needs a lot of land.

Glen of Imaal Terrier
Size: Small   Loyal, fearless, strong-willed, cocky, playful, patient and loving. Sensitive; should be trained gently and consistently. Likes to be close to its family. Likes to dig. Can be dog aggressive. Good little hunter; not to be trusted with non-canine pets. Reserved with strangers. 

Golden Retriever
Size: Large   Loyal, intelligent and eager to please. Gentle, loves everyone; too friendly to be a watch or guard dog. Can be trained in high degrees of obedience. Active and sweet; can be over energetic and distractible. Needs to be with its people; may get into trouble if left alone to long.

Gordon Setter
Size: Large   Intelligent, loyal devoted and eager to please. Courageous, gay and affectionate. Daily vigorous exercise to keep from getting hyperactive. Reserved with strangers. Willful, likes to roam. Logical hunter. Can be dog-aggressive.

Great Dane
Size: Very Large   Brave, loyal, gentle, dignified and kind. Affectionate and sweet. Can be dog-aggressive. Should be trained while small. Loves everyone. Short-lived. Can be slightly difficult to train. Cost a lot to feed. Needs to be around its people.

Great Pyrenees
Size: Very Large   Loyal, affectionate, devoted, bold and very protective. Will give its own life to protect its family. A serious worker. Very independent; training takes patience. Train and socialize while young. Males can be dog-aggressive. Sheds heavily once a year. Reserved with strangers. 

Greater Swiss Mountain Dog
Size: Large   Loyal, eager to please, loving, balanced, watchful, protective and territorial. Warms up to people after being introduced. Excellent watchdog. Needs to be with its people to be happy. Slow to mature. May chase cats, but otherwise is usually okay with them.

Greyhound
Size: Large   Intelligent, graceful, gentle, sensitive, sweet, brave, and loyal. Not a barker. Can be stubborn. Reserved with strangers. Socialize while young to avoid timidity. Some have strong prey instinct and should do not be trusted with non-canine pets, while others can live in peace with them. Greyhounds are not usually difficult to housebreak. Sensitive to drugs and cold weather. 

Harrier
Size: Medium   Cheerful and active; needs vigorous daily exercise or it may become a nuisance. Needs a big, safe space to run. Prefers life in a pack, dogs, people or both. Likes to roam. Reserved with strangers. Do not trust with non-canine pets unless raised with them. Usually friendly with other dogs.

Havanese
Size: Small   Intelligent, gentle very affectionate and responsive. Playful, cheerful and very sociable. Loves everyone. Easy to obedience train. Sensitive to tone of ones voice; train gently. May bark a lot; good watchdog. Some can be shy, but this is not characteristic of the breed.

  Hovawart
Size: Large    Intelligent, affectionate, brave, alert and highly trainable. Calm indoors and energetic outdoors. High dominance levels; needs an owner who knows how to be a leader. Can be dog-aggressive. Revered with strangers. Remains puppy-like for many years. Likes to go hiking.

Ibizan Hound
Size: Medium   Independent, rational and sensitive. Well-mannered, playful, clean and quiet. Protective. Can be dog-aggressive with same sex males. Strong chase instinct; can jump very high from a stand still. Must have very high fence for its own safety. Vigorous daily exercise needed. Do not trust with non-canine pets. Sensitive to cold. Trainable, but stubborn and gets bored easily.

Irish Setter
Size: Large   Happy-go-lucky, friendly, outgoing, impulsive, and full of energy. Very lovable and giddy. Start training early to prevent bad habits, tends to pick them up quick. Daily vigorous exercise needed; best suited for country life. Some can be high-strung. Quick to respond yet sensitive. Easily housebroken. 

Irish Terrier
Size: Small   Intelligent, very bold, hot-tempered, reckless and animated. Loyal, and quite the dare devil. Plays hard, good with active children. Can be stubborn, but trainable. High dominance levels; needs an owner who knows how to be a leader. Very dog-aggressive. Can be difficult to housebreak. Very healthy breed. Protective; socialize while young.

Irish Water Spaniel
Size: Medium   Very intelligent, eager, courageous and confident. Mischievous and fun-loving. Devoted, loyal, trainable with a strong desire to please. Good in the obedience ring. Can be willful, but generally even-tempered and gentle. May drool. Good for most allergy sufferers.

Irish Wolfhound
Size: Very Large   Intelligent, loyal, sweet, affectionate, gentle and patient. Not a guard dog by nature; but may deter with its huge size. Noble and willing. Can be clumsy. Slow to mature, still a puppy at age 2. Short lived breed. Needs a lot of room because of its huge size.

Italian Greyhound
Size: Small   Intelligent, gentle, affectionate, submissive and naturally well-behaved. Inquisitive, playful; can be timid and high-strung. Very dependent, peaceful; does not do well with rowdiness. Sensitive to cold. Very active and extremely fast. Can be difficult to housebreak. May snap if frightened. 

Jack Russell Terrier
Size: Small   Cheerful, perky, amusing; loves playing with toys. Stubborn, determined and absolutely fearless. Firm, experienced training needed. Can be dog-aggressive; socialize while young to curve this tendency. Likes to bark, dig, chase and explore. Strong hunting instincts. Can get destructive and restless if not occupied and well exercised.

Japanese Spaniel (Chin)
Size: Very Small   Intelligent, alert, calm, loving, devoted and charming. Sensitive, clean and graceful. Can learn how to perform tricks. Tends to snore and wheeze. Sensitive to extreme temperatures. 

Keeshond
Size: Medium   Intelligent, affectionate, outgoing, alert and friendly to all. Good watchdog; likes to bark. Easily trained as long as training is consistent. Needs to be part of the family to be happy. Clean, extensive grooming needed. Socialize well while young.

Kerry Blue Terrier
Size: Medium   Rowdy, cheerful, alert, intelligent and somewhat stubborn. Protective; should be extensively socialized. Affectionate, fun-loving and loves to play and roughhouse. Tends to be dog-aggressive. Retains its youthfulness well into its late years. Good with children.

Komondor
Size: Large   Loyal, serious confident, independent, alert flock guardian. Very territorial of his family, house, yard, car and livestock. Can be fiercely protective and even aggressive with dogs and even people. Extensively socialize while young. Needs complete and firm obedience training and an experienced, dominant owner. Can be stubborn. Not recommended for most families.

Kuvasz
Size: Large   Intelligent, independent, curious, daring, courageous and very territorial flock guardian. Strong protective instincts, will protect fiercely. Can be destructive if left along too long. Extensively socialize while young. Needs complete and firm obedience training and an experienced, dominant owner. Can be stubborn. Not recommended for most families.

Labrador Retriever
Size: Large   Very intelligent, affectionate, devoted, high-spirited, lively and good-natured. Easy to train. More dominant and independent than the Golden Retriever. Loves everyone; some can be reserved with strangers if not well socialized. Some lines can be high-strung and very active.

Lakeland Terrier
Size: Small   High-spirited, happy, bold, alert, and confident. Can be determined, feisty and stubborn. Needs firm training. Likes to dig and bark. May be difficult to house-break. Has dormant personality and may try to guard its food. Needs an owner who knows how to be a leader.

Leonberger
Size: Very Large   Calm, steady, friendly, lively, and affectionate. Intelligent, brave and gentle. Can be dog-aggressive. Socialize well while still small. Needs people to be happy. Seasonal heavy shedder.

Lhasa Apso
Size: Small  Active, lively, devoted, loving and self-assured. Wary of strangers. Some can be willful while others are more obedient. Will not tolerate teasing. May try to dominate other dogs in home. Needs an owner who knows how to be a leader. Does not like to be alone. My snap if surprised or irritated. Good dog to travel with.

Maltese
Size: Very Small  Highly intelligent; can learn tricks.   Brave active, lively and playful. Gentle, loving and trusting. Likes to bark and reserved with strangers. Loves to play outdoors and some like to jump in puddles. May snap if surprised or irritated. May be difficult to house- break and can be a picky eater. Some can become neurotic if overprotected.

Manchester Terrier
Size: Very Small   Lively, alert, bold, demanding and devoted. Reserved with strangers. Great lap dog. Good friend to the elderly. Can be stubborn. Dominate personality; needs an owner who can display leadership. May snap if surprised or irritated. Likes to bark; good watchdog. Likes to chase.

Mastiff
Size: Very Large   Calm, steady, docile and loves to please. Brave, loyal, very protective; a born guard dog. Usually will hold intruder rather then attack. Dominance levels vary. May be friendly or reserved with strangers. May be dog-aggressive. Tends to snore, wheeze and drool. 

Miniature Pinscher
Size: Very Small   Intelligent, very active, hardy, demanding, proud, brave and stubborn. Can be dog-aggressive. May become a tyrant if spoiled. Sensitive to extreme cold. Likes to bark. Dominant personality. Needs an other who knows how to display leadership.

Miniature Poodle
Size: Small   Happy, amusing, clever and extremely intelligent; can learn to perform tricks. Some love to play with children, but some are sensitive and nervous. Can be anxious and reserved with strangers. Likes to bark. Beware of over-breeding producing inferior dogs.

Miniature Schnauzer
Size: Small   Intelligent and trainable. Lively, playful, cheerful and alert. Demands time and companionship. Feisty and usually dog-aggressive. May pick fights with larger dogs. Can be reserved with strangers. Very popular breed; beware of over-breeding producing inferior dogs. Good for allergy sufferers.

Neapolitan Mastiff
Size: Very Large   Extremely intelligent, affectionate, peaceful, serious and steady. Calm and quiet unless provoked. Highly protective; very dominant personality; needs an owner who knows how to be a leader. Socialize extensively while young. Very wary of strangers and tends to try to dominate other dogs. Good family dog when with the right owner, but not recommended for most families. Often drools a lot. Very tolerant of pain.

Newfoundland
Size: Very Large   Loyal, very devoted, calm, gentle, good-natured, sweet and brave. Protective, will act if needed. Becomes very attached to owners; may have trouble adapting to new home. Patient and playful with children. Seasonal heavy shedder. Males may be aggressive with other males. Sensitive to heat. Loves the water. Tends to drool.

Norfolk Terrier
Size: Very Small   Sociable, alert, courageous, feisty, delightful and loving. Some tend to attach to one person, but they all love everyone. Socialize well while young. Likes to dig and bark. Loves to play with toys and balls. May be difficult to house-break.

Norwegian Elkhound
Size: Medium   Independent; may resist obedience training. Dignified, fearless, energetic and alert. Friendly and reliable. Docile, affectionate and loyal. Likes to bark and roam. May be aggressive with same sex dogs. Seasonal heavy shedder. Excellent jogging companion.

Norwich Terrier
Size: Very Small   Sociable, alert, courageous, feisty, delightful and loving. Some tend to attach to one person, but they all love everyone. Socialize well while young. Likes to dig and bark. Loves to play with toys and balls. May be difficult to house-break.

Old English Sheepdog (Bobtail)
Size: Large   Intelligent, gentle, loving, easygoing, faithful and protective. Friendly and adaptable. Strong herding instincts; may try to herd people, especially small children. Herds by bumping, not nipping. Likes to stick close to home. Can be stubborn; needs firm training.

Olde English Bulldogge
Size: Large   Docile, capable and protective. Fearless, athletic, fierce looking, determined and courageous. Friendly around his family and friends, but fearless adversary to anyone who threatens his master or property. Likes to chew. Eager to please. Should have an owner who knows how to display leadership.

Otterhound
Size: Large   Happy, loving and devoted. Tends to be stubborn; training takes patience. Likes to bay, sniff and roam. Do not trust with non-canine pets. Needs a lot of exercise and grooming. May be clumsy with children; not recommended for infants.

Papillon
Size: Very Small   Amusing, gentle, active, playful, lively and charming. Can be trained for competitive obedience. Gentle, even-tempered, silent, and patient. Affectionate; loves to cuddle. Becomes attached to his owner; may become jealous of visitors. Some lines can be timid and high-strung. May be difficult to housebreak.

Parson Russell Terrier
Size: Small   Cheerful, perky, amusing; loves playing with toys. Stubborn, determined and absolutely fearless. Firm, experienced training needed. Can be dog-aggressive; socialize while young to curve this tendency. Likes to bark, dig, chase and explore. Strong hunting instincts. Can get destructive and restless if not occupied and well exercised.

Pekingese
Size: Very Small   Loving, sweet and affectionate with its owner; wary of strangers. Loyal, calm, demanding lap dog, but not high-strung. Absolutely fearless to the point of stupidity. Likes to bark. Very stubborn and tends to be possessive of food and toys. Not recommend for small children. Sensitive to heat. Tends to wheeze and snore.

Petit Basset Griffon Vendeen
Size: Medium   Intelligent, happy, friendly, loves to explore. Independent and stubborn at times. Loves to dig and is known as an escape artist. Must have secure fencing. Needs regular grooming to prevent matting. 

Pharaoh Hound
Size: Medium   Intelligent, peaceful, naturally well-behaved and loves to play.  Socialize early to prevent timidity. Reserved with strangers. Very fast; likes to chase. Do not trust with non-canine pets. Can be sensitive to insecticides and medicines. Clean with no doggie odor.

Pointer
Size: Large   Very energetic, an enthusiastic hunter. With enough exercise he is calm in the home; without enough exercise they may become restless and destructive. Devoted and loyal. Socialize while young to prevent  timidity. Some can be high-strung. Can be stubborn and distractible. Reserved with strangers.

Pomeranian
Size: Very Small   Lively, brave, excitable, alert, curious, happy and can be stubborn. Loves to bark; excellent watch dog. Rather sharp temperament. Can learn tricks. Must have an owner that can display leadership or he may become too demanding and not listen. May be dog-aggressive. Can be snappish. Very popular; beware of over-breeding producing inferior dogs. 

Portuguese Water Dog
Size: Medium   Highly intelligent, affectionate, loyal, lively, even-tempered, courageous, and fun. Great scene of humor. Very trainable, obedient and willing to please. Dominance, barking and indoor activity levels vary. Some love to chew. Reserved with strangers. 

Pug
Size: Small   Loyal, frisky, clever, affectionate, loving, playful, cheerful and rambunctious. Can be stubborn. Not a barker, friendly with strangers. Seasonal heavy shedder. Needs to be around his people to be happy. May wheeze and snore.

Puli  (Pulik)
Size: Medium   Lively, independent and sometimes very stubborn. Affectionate and very protective. Courageous with high dominance levels. Reserved with strangers. Likes to bark. Corded coat needs special care. Usually friendly with other dogs. 

Rat Terrier
Size: Small   Intelligent, alert, loving, very inquisitive and lively. Quick and very playful. Fairly territorial and stubborn. Some are friendly with strangers, some are reserved. Not good swimmers. This breed may be slightly difficult to train.

Rhodesian Ridgeback
Size: Large   Intelligent and good-natured. Usually likes children. A fine hunter, but calm in the home. Should be thoroughly obedience trained and well socialized. Needs an owner who knows how to display leadership. Males may try to dominate other dogs; do not trust with non-canine pets. 

Rottweiler
Size: Large   Brave, loyal and devoted. Calm, mellow, serious, sound and confident. Very protective; will defend his family fiercely. Needs thorough training or you may end up with a very powerful and overly aggressive dog. Needs an owner who knows how to display leadership. Some may snore. Overheats easily in hot weather.

Saint Bernard
Size: Very Large   Obedient, devoted, loyal, steady, peaceful and dignified. Patient with children, wants to please. Train well while young, because he will grow up to be huge. Tends to drool, slobber, snore and wheeze. Needs people to be happy. Loves everyone. Beware of over breeding producing inferior temperaments.  

Saluki
Size: Medium   Sensitive, friendly, kind and affectionate. Somewhat aloof, even with its family. Very independent and pleasant. A natural athlete, loves to run; daily vigorous exercise needed. Reserved with strangers. Natural instinct to chase and kill; do not trust with non-canine pets. Needs secure fencing. Too slim for roughhousing.

Samoyed
Size: Medium   Highly intelligent, very loyal, easy-going, friendly and playful. May resist formal obedience training. Likes to bark. Reserved with strangers. Excellent with children. Likes to roam. Seasonal heave shedder. Needs a lot of grooming. May be dog-aggressive; do not trust with non-canine pets.

Schipperke
Size: Small   Intelligent, hot-tempered and protective. Curious, mischievous and can be stubborn. May seem aloof, but is actually very loyal. Can be difficult to housebreak. Good dog for boating. Likes to howl and bark. Very energetic; very active indoors. Best with older considerate children.

Scottish Deerhound
Size: Large   Quiet, gentle, loving and passive. Very brave, loyal, devoted and dignified. Loves everyone; not a watch or guard dog. Great with considerate children. Naturally well behaved, but can be stubborn and slow to obey commands. Needs a lot of exercise; is fast and likes to chase. Secure area needed. 

Scottish Terrier (Scottie)
Size: Small   Intelligent, alert, courageous, lively and charming. Full of character. Can be moody and snappish as an adult. Sensitive to harsh treatment. Often a one family dog; unmoved with other people. Extensive grooming needed. Likes to dig and bark. Needs an owner who knows how to display leadership. Slightly difficult to train. 

Sealyham Terrier
Size: Small   Bold and brave. Loving, spirited, devoted and fun-loving. Calmer then some other terriers. Can be stubborn. Can be very dog-aggressive. Likes to dig and bark. Slightly difficult to train. Dominance levels are high, needs an owner how knows how to display leadership. Best with older considerate children.

Shar-Pei
Size: Medium   Devoted and loyal to their families.  Very intelligent, but can be willful and needs positive motivational training. Reserved with strangers, aloof, dignified and sober. Has strong guarding instincts. Socialized well. Becomes bored easily and needs some variety in its life. Make training fun. Some people are allergic to the harsh coat.

Shetland Sheepdog (Sheltie)
Size: Small   Loving and lively. Gentle, sensitive, devoted and graceful.  Highly intelligent, and very willing to please. Good with children in the family, suspicious of strangers. Likes to bark; good watch dog. Socialize extensively as a puppy. Needs people to be happy. Beware of over breeding producing inferior temperaments and health. Seasonal heavy shedder.

Shiba Inu
Size: Small   Lively, charming, alert, independent and loving. Fearless, confident and courageous. Fast and likes to play. Do not trust with non-canine pets. Easy to travel with. Clean and not a barker. Reserved with strangers. Good with children. Can be dog-aggressive. Seasonal heavy shedder.

Shih-Tzu
Size: Very small   Very devoted, charming, self-assured, overconfident and proud. Friendly, playful and full of life. Needs to be around his people to be happy. Can be stubborn and snappish if surprised or peeved. Can be difficult to housebreak. Tends to snore and wheeze. A lot of grooming need if left in full coat. Needs an owner who knows how to display leadership. Likes to bark.

Siberian Husky
Size: Medium   Gentle playful puppy at heart. Smart, loving, sociable, easy-going and good with kids. Loves everyone; not a guard or watchdog. Likes to howl and roam. Prefers cool climates. Training takes patients. Mischievous, can be stubborn, consistent training needed. Highly intelligent; will take advantage if he can. Seasonal heavy shedder. May chase livestock. Can become destructive if bored or left along too long. Can be difficult to housebreak.

Silky Terrier
Size: Very Small   Curious, loving, spunky, active, keen and demanding. Quick and intelligent but can be stubborn. Can be snappish if irritated or peeved. Good to travel with. Likes to bark; excellent watchdog. Needs people to be happy. Reserved with strangers. Friendly with other dogs; not generally trustworthy with non-canine pets. Slightly difficult to train. 

Skye Terrier
Size: Small   Loyal, protective, brave, bold, spunky and protective. Playful and affectionate. Needs attention to be happy. Extensively socialize while young; does not like to be touched by strangers and may bite. Can be dog-aggressive. Needs a lot of grooming and a dominant owner. Likes to bark.

Smooth Fox Terrier
Size: Small   Vigorous and full of life. Lovable, bold enthusiastic, playful and affectionate. Brave, scrappy and very impulsive. Will pick fights with other dogs. Likes to roam. Willful; needs firm obedience training. Likes to bark. Great at learning tricks.

Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier
Size: Medium   Playful, alert, happy-go lucky puppy thorough out his life. Loves everyone. Self-confident, not as aggressive as many other terriers, but can be dog-aggressive; generally good with other pets. Extensive grooming needed. 

Staffordshire Bull Terrier
Size: Small   Very brave, loyal and highly protective of his family. Intelligent, yet stubborn. Can be dog aggressive; usually good with non-canine pets. Very dormant, needs an owner who knows how to display leadership. Can be difficult to housebreak. Can be excellent pet, but not recommend for most families.

Standard Poodle
Size: Large   Highly intelligent and very trainable. Noble, elegant and kind. Tends to be calmer then the smaller varieties. Some can be good guard dogs. Some are good hunters. Does not like to be alone. Extensive grooming needed. 

Standard Schnauzer
Size: Medium   Vivacious, playful, fearless, lively, affectionate intelligent and clever. Demanding, definite terrier personality. Can be very stubborn. High dominance levels, needs an energetic, owner who knows how to display leadership. Needs firm training. Reserved with strangers, best with older considerate children.

Sussex Spaniel
Size: Medium   Sweet, loyal and devoted. Calm, steady, not very demonstrative or outgoing compared to other spaniels. Likes to howl. Can be very stubborn, needs patient, firm training. Can be dog-aggressive. Needs an owner who knows how to display leadership. Can be snappish if irritated. 

Tibetan Mastiff
Size: Very Large   Very intelligent, fearless, brave, very protective and territorial. Aloof and dignified. Very determined with a strong desire to please. Likes to bark, dig and climb. Needs an owner who knows how to display strong leadership. Tends to be dog-aggressive. Seasonal heavy shedder. Can be a great pet, but not recommended for most families.

Tibetan Spaniel
Size Very Small   Sweet, perky, happy and intelligent. Loving with its family but aloof with strangers. Likes to bark, but not yappy; good watchdog. Can be stubborn. Slow to mature. Coat comes out in clumps once a year. Best with older considerate children.

Tibetan Terrier
Size: Small   Lively, fun-loving, sweet and gentle. Loyal to his family, wary of strangers.  Can be stubborn. Likes to bark; great watchdog. Extensive grooming needed. Can be slightly difficult to train. Best with older considerate children. 

Tosa Inu
Size: Very Large   Highly intelligent, fearless, brave, bold defender. Very devoted; strong desire to please. Good with other dogs only when raised with them from puppyhood. Very wary of strangers, highly protective. Needs an owner who knows how to display strong leadership. With proper training and control, can be great family dog, but not recommend for most families.

Toy Poodle
Size: Small   Very intelligent, one of the most trainable breeds. Happy, perky, lively and very amusing. Likes to bark. Some can be high-stung. May snap if irritated. Extensive grooming needed. Reserved with strangers. Friendly with other dogs and pets. Should be well socialized while young. Beware of over breeding producing inferior temperaments and health.

Vizsla
Size: Medium   Intelligent, loving, friendly and gentle. Vigorous daily exercise needed; without it he can become destructive and neurotic. Loves everyone. Can be stubborn and distractible, but trainable. Needs firm patient hand. Likes to chew. 

Weimaraner
Size: Large   Intelligent and quick to learn. Can be stubborn and very opinionated. Happy, loving and very rambunctious. Courageous and devoted. Strong prey instinct; do not trust with non-canine pets, can be dog aggressive. Likes to bark. A natural protector. Needs an owner who knows how to display strong leadership. Needs to be with his people or may become destructive and restless. 

Welsh Corgi
Size: Small   Highly intelligent, trainable and obedient. Well-balanced, protective and robust. Loving, loyal and very willing to please. Very courageous and sometimes do know realize they are small. May display herding behavior. Some like to bark and some can be dog-aggressive. 

Welsh Springer Spaniel
Size: Medium   Happy and willing to please. Less outgoing then the English Springer. Sensitive and somewhat independent. Good with other pets and dogs. Some are protective. Socialize well to avoid timidity. Vigorous daily exercise needed. 

Welsh Terrier
Size: Small   Playful, loving, curious, hardy, energetic and spunky. Generally brave, but some tend to be timid if touched unexpectedly. Socialize well while young. Can be difficult to housebreak. Likes to chase, bark, dig and swim. Needs secure area and an owner who knows how to display leadership. Can be dog-aggressive; generally good with other pets.

West Highland White Terrier
Size: Small    Confident , cocky, playful, lively, enthusiastic, sunny and outgoing. Devoted to his family. May snap if irritated. Not as willing as some other terriers. Likes to chase, friendly with other dogs, but some can be dog-aggressive. Likes to dig and bark. Good dog to travel with. Very active indoors. 

Whippet
Size: Medium   Very affectionate, lively, quite in the home. Some can be high-strung. Sensitive to cold. Can be difficult to housebreak. Not very playful or demonstrative, very sensitive, should not be handled roughly; better for adults. Clean, good to travel with. Reserved with strangers. Good with other dogs; do not trust with non-canine pets. 

Wirehaired Pointing Griffon
Size: Large   Intelligent, loving, very willing to please. Needs to be with his people; not suited for kennel life. Great hunting dog. Can be high-strung and nervous with strangers and unfamiliar situations. Extensive socialization need while young. Needs daily vigorous exercise. 

Wirehaired Fox Terrier 
Size: Small   Vigorous and full of life. Lovable, bold enthusiastic, playful and affectionate. Brave, scrappy and very impulsive. Will pick fights with other dogs. Likes to roam. Willful; needs firm obedience training. Likes to bark. Great at learning tricks.

Yorkshire Terrier
Size: Very Small   Highly energetic, affectionate, spirited and willing. Self-confident, fearless and intelligent. Can be stubborn. Demanding and dependent. May snap if frightened. Reserved with strangers. Likes to bark. Can be dog-aggressive and difficult to housebreak. Sensitive to cold. Smaller "tea cup" Yorkies can have more heath problems.