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.

Bracco Italiano

Also known as the Italian Pointer, the Bracco Italiano is an athletic gun dog. With their strong muscles and long ears, these dogs are the pride of Italy.

Bo Shih

The perky little Bo Shih brings together the feisty spirit of the Shih Tzu and the often-stubborn personality of the Boston Terrier.

Miniature Aussiedoodle

The adorable Miniature Aussiedoodle combines the hypo-allergenic Miniature Poodle with the play Miniature Australian Shepherd.

Chiweenie

A cross between a Chihuahua and Dachshund, the Chiweenie is one cute pooch. Long and small, this adorable hybrid is picking up in popularity.

Mountain Mastiff

The Mountain Mastiff is a cross between a purebred Bernese Mountain Dog and Mastiff. It's a popular breed because they are sensitive, docile, and kind.

Dorgi

The Dorgi is a cross between a purebred Corgi and Dachshund. This crossbreed is intelligent, and it is usually easy to train.

Landseer Newfoundland

The Landseer Newfoundland is a black and white color variant of the Newfoundland breed. He is a sweet and gentle dog that makes an excellent family pet.

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.

Alaskan Malamute

Considered to be excellent family pets, the Alaskan Malamute is intelligent and clever and will do anything to ensure that its owners are pleased with them.

Alaskan Husky

The Alaskan Husky is an intelligent and active breed that thrives as a sled dog or simply when given a job to do. Perfect for dog sports.

Ori-Pei

The Ori-Pei is a laid-back pooch who can be quite the trickster with their favorite humans. Also known as the Pugpei, Sharpug or Pug-a-Pei.

Russian-European Laika

The Russian-European Laika is a hunting dog known for its ability to tree game, though it has also been used to hunt game birds, moose, and even bear.

Broodle Griffon

The feisty little Broodle Griffon is a fun-loving combination of the curious Brussels Griffon and the super smart Miniature Poodle.

Flatdoodle

The Flatdoodle is a cross between a purebred Flat Coated Retriever and Poodle. A smart, active, energetic, and affectionate dog that learns quickly.

Chusky

The Chusky (a cross between a Chow Chow and a Siberian Husky, and also referred to as the Chowski) is a giant fluffball of love... and protection.

Shih-Mo

The Shih-Mo is a mix of American Eskimo and Shih-Tzu breeds. They are affectionate, sweet dogs who are attached to their owners.

Dunker

The Dunker is also known as the Norwegian Hound because that is its country of origin. It's a hunting breed, naturally inclined to take well to training.

Toxirn

The confident little Toxirn brings the sassy but devoted nature of the Chihuahua together with the spirited, playful personality of the Cairn Terrier.

Schwyz Hound

Also known as the Schweizer Laufhund, the Schwyz hound is one of three Swiss hounds. This is a small hound used for hunting hare, fox, and roe deer.

Maltipom

The Maltipom is a designer dog breed from crossing two purebred dogs, a Maltese and a Pomeranian. A small, cute pooch, the Maltipom is ideal for apartments.

Beagle

The Beagle's unique identity is thanks to its easy-going and easy-to-get-along-with nature.For many people, a Beagle is a perfect addition to the home.

Caravan Hound

The Caravan Hound is a medium-sized breed with a lithe body similar to that of the Greyhound. A sighthound traditionally used for hunting and guarding.

Basenji

A small breed boasting a regal look, the Basenji is known as the barkless dog. It belongs in the hound group, but exhibits many terrier-like behaviors.

Saint Berdoodle

A designer dog breed, the Saint Berdoodle does well with other dogs and family pets and his social nature means he loves to be the center of attention.

Labollie

The Labollie is a hybrid mix of the Labrador Retriever and the Collie. An ideal family pet learns quickly and loves to be included in all family activities.

Petite Goldendoodle

The Petite Goldendoodle is an adorable mash-up of Golden Retriever, Cocker Spaniel, Miniature Poodle and Toy Poodle. A wonderful family dog.

Labrottie

The Labrottie is a cross between a purebred Labrador Retriever and Rottweiler. These dogs are known for their affectionate and devoted personality.

Mudi

A medium-sized dog bred for herding, the Mudi is an exceptional and intelligent companion. This dog is a rare breed, as less than a few thousand exist today

Aki-Poo

The Aki-Poo brings together the eager-to-please the Poodle and the protective the Akita. A protective dog that is known to be playful and affectionate.

American Hairless Terrier

Although a new breed, the American Hairless Terrier has gathered quite a fan club in its few decades of existence. It is an intelligent working breed.

Schillerstovare

A Swedish breed, the Schillerstovare were developed to exhibit a lively temperament, strong scenting ability, and versatility in the field.

Mastador

A mix of Labrador Retriever and Bullmastiff, the Mastador is a great family dog with a tremendously friendly yet protective nature.

Basset Hound

The Basset Hound is a smooth, short-coated dog, with a long, heavy body and wrinkly, short legs. It is easy-going and gets along with children and pets.

Rattle Dog

The Rattle Dog is a cute combo of the clever Poodle and the stubborn American Rat Terrier. An intelligent, loving little dog that's great with kids.

Australian Bulldog

The Australian Bulldog bears a striking resemblance to the Bulldog, but it has clearly been influenced by other breeds like the Bullmastiff and the Boxer.

Irish Terrier

Versatility should be the middle name of the Irish Terrier. This breed is full of energy and courage. He doesn't realize that he is a medium-sized dog.

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.

Shikoku

The Shikoku has a wild look about him, having a wolf-like coloration complete with pointed ears and a tapered snout. This breed hails from Japan.

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.

Dachshund

You may know it as the "Weiner Dog," but its actual breed name is Dachshund. There are 3 types of Dachshunds: long-haired, wired-haired and short-haired.

Treeing Tennessee Brindle

If you are looking for an intelligent dog with a unique appearance and advanced hunting skills, the Treeing Tennessee Brindle may be the right dog for you.

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.

Rat Terrier

A small dog with a big heart and large amount of energy, the Rat Terrier is a loyal, active and playful breed that fits into a variety of households.

Bichon Frise

The Bichon Frise, French for "curly white lap dog," looks similar to the Maltese, but it does have some distinctions that make it a breed in and of itself.

Chigi

The Chigi brings the loving personality of the Cardigan Welsh Corgi together with the sassy nature of the Chihuahua to make a wonderful family dog.

Tibetan Spaltese

The Tibetan Spaltese has a low-maintenance coat and moderate activity needs. This designer dog was developed by crossing the Tibetan Spaniel with a Maltese.

Cockeranian

Cockeranian as a designer dog breed hasn't been around for too long, but it has already conquered many hearts of dog owners- and with good reason.

Westiepoo

The hybrid Westiepoo is a happy, family oriented dog that loves to be around others and gets along famously with household pets and older kids.

Kooikerhondje

Playful and affectionate, the Kooikerhondje is safe and reliable with children. His love for the water and playing makes him a great companion for kids.

Polish Hound

Also known as the Ogar Polski, the Polish Hound is a hunting breed indigenous to Poland. An intelligent and trainable breed but he also has a gentle side.

Labradinger

The eager-to-please Labradinger is a cheerful blend of two working breed dogs; the friendly Labrador Retriever and the energetic English Springer Spaniel.

Shiloh Shepherd

The Shiloh Shepherd is a cross between a purebred German Shepherd and Alaskan Malamute. These dogs are protective, loyal, and loving.

Irish Wolfoodle

A gentle giant that loves kids, the Irish Wolfoodle brings the friendly nature of the Irish Wolfhound together with the playful Standard Poodle.

Eskland

The Eskland is a cross between an American Eskimo and Shetland Sheepdog. They are energetic pooches who always look like they have a smile on their face.

Bichonaranian

Bichonaranian, also known as Pomachon or Pom Frise, is one of the more recent additions to the diverse and rich world of designer dog breeds.

Borador

Playful and energetic, the Borador makes an excellent family dog. Described as naturally happy, they are incredibly sweet and are great with children.

Mountain Cur

Mountain Cur BasicsThe Mountain Cur is prized as an all-American working dog – they might still be somewhat uncommon, but it doesn’t mean that they don’t hav…

Patterdale Terrier

The Patterdale Terrier looks like a mini Labrador Retreiver. They are a compact, working breed that was originally bred to hunt foxes and other vermin.

Braque D’Auvergne

The Braque dAuvergne is a pointing breed and a versatile gundog that also makes a great family pet. This working breed needs plenty of daily exercise.

Eskipoo

The Eskipoo is a cross between a Poodle and American Eskimo dog. They love to play and have a good time, making them a great breed for with children.