Dog Breeds

There are so many different dog breeds – which one do you choose? Do you go with perennial favorites such as the Labrador Retriever, Beagle, Boxer or Poodle? Or do you want to stand out at the dog park with an exotic breed such as the Xoloitzcuintli, Schipperke, Great Pyrenees or Tibetan Mastiff. Perhaps a lap dog is more your style – then you’d better check out the Shih Tzu, Affenpinscher, Maltese and Pug. If you like to keep moving, then you’ll need a dog that keeps up with your fast lifestyle – the Husky, Australian Cattle Dog, Collie and English Springer Spaniel are just a few examples of dog breeds that can’t get enough exercise!

PetGuide.com has researched hundreds of dog breeds, breaking down the pros and cons of each breed so you have all the information you need to make the right decision. How much does the dog shed, is it good with children, can it live comfortably in an apartment? Find out more and discover the perfect dog breed for your lifestyle.

Pumi

A multi-functional dog, the Pumi is often used as a sheepdog, guard and hunting dog. He fits in to a family setting and makes a wonderful companion.

Greek Harehound

Developed in Southern Greece, the Greek Harehound is a skilled and fearless hunter with boundless energy and excellent stamina.

Zuchon

No, that's not a teddy bear - it's a Zuchon! A designer dog breed, the Zuchon is a mix of Shih Tzu and Bichon Frise. A wonderful addition to your family!

Goldador

Also known as Golden Labradors, the Goldador is a hybrid of two of the most popular dogs in North America. Ideal for a wide range of families and lifestyles

Otterhound

Gentle natured and amiable, the Otterhound is a delightful breed of dog that practically any dog lover can easily fall in love with. A hardworking breed.

Affenshire

The Affenshire is a designer dog breed, developed by crossing a Yorkshire Terrier to an Affenpinscher. Learn more about these unique tiny dogs!

Korean Jindo

The Korean Jindo is known for being fiercely loyal to its owners and for its gentle nature. This is a fiercely loyal breed that bonds closely with family.

Hygenhund

The Hygenhund is a medium-sized breed with the typical hound appearance - he's lithe, muscular, and active, making him a wonderful hunting dog.

Docker

The adorable Docker makes a great pet for seniors or families with older children. This designer dog is a cross between Cocker Spaniel and the Dachshund.

Labrador Husky

Though the name of this breed suggests it is a cross between a Labrador Retriever and a Siberian Husky, the Labrador Husky is actually a separate breed.

Ratshire Terrier

To develop the Ratshire Terrier, breeders cross a Yorkie with a Rat Terrier- a combination that might seem unusual but results in adorable small dogs.

Schapendoes

The Schapendoes has a friendly temperament but it is known for its herding abilities as well as its talent for dog sports. Loves to learn and play.

Doberman Pinscher

In the U.S., these dogs can simply be known as Dobermans, but the Doberman and the Doberman Pinscher are just two names for the same breed.

How Much Exercise Does a Labradoodle Need?

Labradoodles are a beloved breed, but their high energy levels and playful demeanor mean they need plenty of exercise to thrive. Here’s what you should know about meeting your furry friend’s activity needs.

Cotonese

Cotonese was developed by crossing two small dogs of similar traits, the lovely Maltese and the sweet Coton de Tulear. Find all about this desinger dog!

American Staffordshire Terrier

Despite its tough look, the American Staffordshire Terrier is affectionate and loving. A wonderful guard dog, this breed might be a fit for your home.

Golden Pei

Learn more about the Golden Pei, a rare designer dog breed developed by crossing the affectionate Golden Retriever and devoted Chinese Shar-Pei.

Basque Shepherd Dog

If you are looking for a family-friendly breed that is unlike any other dog you've ever seen, consider the Basque Shepherd Dog.

American English Coonhound

A true Southern U.S. dog, the American English Coonhound loves to hunt. Loud-voiced and hard-working, this dog is one of six official Coonhound breeds.

Shih Tzu

The Shih Tzu is a great go-to family pet, but because of its small size and its need for companionship, he'll need to be an inside dog.

Patterpoo

The Patterpoo is a hybrid of a Patterdale Terrier and a Miniature Poodle. This dog is affectionate and loves to snuggle up with his family in the evening.

Great Danoodle

The Great Danoodle is a cross between a purebred Great Dane and Poodle. These are intelligent and obedient dogs who are willing to please.

Cocker-Pei

The Cocker-Pei is a cross between a purebred Shar-Pei and Cocker Spaniel. They are known for being highly social dogs with friendly personalities.

Labernard

The Labernard is a hybrid of the easy-going Labrador retriever and the Saint Bernard. This dog is friendly, has an intelligent personality and is alert.

Yorkshire Terrier

Originating in England as rat and small vermin hunters, the cuddly Yorkshire Terrier has become a go-to lap dog. A feisty breed, the Yorkie loves attention.

Koolie

The Koolie played a role in the development of the Australian Cattle Dog. An intelligent and hard-working breed that generally responds well to training.

Great Golden Dane

If you want a gentle giant with a soul of a puppy, choose Great Golden Dane. These designer dogs are mixes between Golden Retriever and the Great Dane.

Tibetan Spaniel

He may be small, but don't be fooled - the alert Tibetan Spaniel will stand on guard and let you know if a stranger is getting too close to your home.

ChiChon

The adorable ChiChon brings together the spirited Chihuahua and the playful Bichon Frise. A great dog for first-time dog owners.

Chorkie

A Chorkie is a mix of Yorkshire Terrier and Chihuahua They are one of the cutest breeds of designer dogs available to the modern dog owner.

Bruno Jura Hound

Though you may not have heard of him, the Bruno Jura Hound has ancient origins. Developed during the Middle Ages, this breed remains a talented hunter.

Shorkie

With the attitude of a giant breed dog, the Shorkie has no clue that he is a small guy. Playful and energetic, the Shorkie is great with kids and adults.

Cao De Castro Laboreiro

A large and impressive livestock herding breed, the Cao de Castro Laboreiro is fairly rare outside his home country of Portugal.

Miniature Australian Shepherd

If you are looking for a small, compact and smart dog with the strong work ethic of a much larger breed, consider the Miniature Australian Shepherd.

Small Münsterländer

Known as the Kleiner Mnsterlnder, the Small Mnsterlnder looks like a smaller version of the versatile hunting breed known as the Large Mnsterlnder.

Pont-Audemer Spaniel

The Pont-Audemer Spaniel is an excellent hunting breed. This is a hardy and hard-working breed which makes him an excellent working dog.

Redbone Retriever

The friendly Redbone Retriever brings together the sweet-natured Golden Retriever, the easygoing Labrador Retriever and the Redbone Coonhound.

Taigan Dog

The Taigan Dog is a type of sighthound that can achieve speeds up to 60 km/h. It is an intelligent, gentle and even-tempered breed.

Bolognese

A companion dog in every sense of the word, this small breed will be stuck at your side. Forever curious, the Bolognese want to always be with you.

Portuguese Pointer

An asset to the bird hunter, the Portuguese Pointer is considered to be one of the ultimate gundogs. He is a loyal watchdog who is reliable with children.

Sarplaninac

Sporting a fluffy coat, the Sarplaninac is a livestock-guarding breed that was developed in the mountainous regions of Macedonia, Albania and Kosovo.

Maremma Sheepdog

The Maremma Sheepdog is an Italian breed of livestock guarding dog. This fluffy white dog is known to be a friendly and even-tempered breed.

Peke-A-Tese

The spunky little Peke-A-Tese brings the spirited nature of the Pekingese together with the fun personality of the Maltese.

Catalan Sheepdog

Descended from ancient mountain breeds, the Catalan Sheepdog is a talented herding dog that also makes a great family pet.

Sheepadoodle

The beautiful Sheepadoodle is a fun-loving cross between a Standard Poodle and Old English Sheepdog that brings the best traits of both dogs to the mix.

Lurcher

Technically, the Lurcher is a cross between a sighthound and any non-sighthound breed. These dogs are intelligent and hardy, ideal for hunting purposes.

Miniature Husky

The Miniature Husky is loving and energetic, eager to spend time with his family - especially if it involves a game. An entertaining and engaging dog.

Bolonoodle

The Bolonoodle is a cross between a purebred Bolognese and Poodle. Full of love and energy, these dogs are a true pleasure to be around.

Perro De Presa Canario

The Perro de Presa Canario was bred for strength and a muscular build. They may look intimidating, but this dog can be calm and obedient with training.

Jorkie

A mix of two terrier breeds from England, the Jorkie is a small dog with a big spirit. Find out more about the Yorkie and Jack Russell mix dog!

Thai Ridgeback

Few people in the U.S. have heard of the Thai Ridgeback, let alone seen one. It is a favored companion of those needing a loyal companion and watchdog.

Canaan Dog

The Canaan Dog is one of the oldest known breeds in existence today. They belong to the Spitz family and have the appearance of most primitive dog breeds.

Boxerdoodle

The Boxerdoodle is a cross between a purebred Boxer and Poodle. Boxerdoodles are smart canines that will generally be easier to train than other breeds.

Pooghan

The Pooghan brings the intelligent Poodle together with the independent Afghan Hound. A gentle, friendly dog who loves to be part of all family activities.

Romanian Mioritic Shepherd Dog

One glance at the Romanian Mioritic Shepherd Dog is all it takes to know that this breed was developed for herding and guarding livestock.

Schnorgi

Sweet, friendly, and playful, the Schnorgi will bring a lot of joy to your life. This hybrid is a mix of Welsh Corgi and Miniature Schnauzer and will display a combination of traits of the parental breeds.

Bloodhound

The Bloodhound has a personality that is among the best in the world of dogs and makes for a loyal house pet, a friendly companion, and a great friend.

Native American Indian Dog

The Native American Indian Dog is an attractive breed with a wild appearance very similar to their ancestors. These dogs can grow to be fairly large.

Jackshund

The Jackshund (Jackweenie) is a designer dog created by crossing the Jack Russell Terrier with a Dachshund. This is an energetic dog with a sweet nature.

What Are the Best Dog Breeds for First-Time Owners?

If you're new to dog ownership, it helps to start with breeds known for being friendly, trainable, and relatively easy to care for. While every dog is unique, certain breeds tend to be more beginner-friendly thanks to their temperament and adaptability.