Behind the Breed: Papillons
These small, happy dogs are known for their big wing-like ears and agility abilities. Papillons are incredibly smart and friendly, making them great companions, especially for those who might live in smaller places or those who want to travel with their dog. They're...
Behind the Breed: Samoyeds
These white, fluffy dogs are known for their friendly, goofy nature. Bred initially for pulling sleds and other tasks, Samoyeds thrive in colder climates and often love snow. In fact, their history as sled dogs is why they're one of the oldest domestic dog breeds...
Behind the Breed: Rottweilers.
There are a few breeds that look or are considered dangerous. The title of 'most dangerous breed' has changed over the years but for some, rottweilers are a scary breed. Like with any breed, a dog's temperament is often dependent on genetics and life experience; plus,...
Behind the Breed: Boxers
Boxers are a popular breed and for good reason, these dogs are goofy, bright, and energetic. Despite their square jaw and muscular statue, boxers are great family dogs and wonderful around children. They're medium in size and have short coats. If you're looking for a...
Behind the Breed: Dachshunds
These small and spunky dogs were originally scent hound dogs that hunted animals like badgers and foxes but nowadays, they're great family dogs! Dachshunds are short but long dogs with friendly temperaments and high prey drives/wandering potential. They're...
Behind the Breed: Scottish Deerhound
At this year's National Dog Show, the winner was Claire, a lovely Scottish Deerhound. Up until her win, I personally had no idea that Scottish Deerhound was a breed! This large, regal breed is similar to the Irish Wolfhound in...
Behind the Breed: English Bulldogs
These kind and dignified dogs are short in stature but still well-muscled and strong! English Bulldogs are rather iconic dogs and would make a great companion for many, unless you're looking for a running partner! With their relatively flat faces, Bulldogs are prone...
Behind the Breed: Irish Setters.
Learn more about Irish Setters, a wonderful breed with a brilliant red coat.
Behind the Breed: Vizslas
These energetic red dogs are moderately popular in the United States and for good reason! As energetic and affectionate dogs, Vizslas are great family dogs and would make great running partners. Vizslas aren't for those looking for a couch potato in a dog, as they're...
Behind the Breed: Bohemian Shepherd
While Bohemian Shepherds aren't particularly well known in the United States, these dogs are friendly, intelligent, and devoted to their people. Also known as Chodský pes, the Czech Sheepdog, or the Bohemian Herder, these dogs are lively and take to almost any...
Behind the Breed: Saint Bernards
These large dogs are iconic and lovable animals, known best for mountain rescues and their gentle nature. Originally from the Great St. Bernard Pass in the Swiss Alps, these dogs are named after Saint Bernard, an 11th-century monk who founded a hospice in the pass to...
Behind the Breed: Great Danes
As one of the tallest dogs in the world, Great Danes are powerful, graceful animals that are taller than some humans when standing on their hind legs. In fact, their graceful nature is the reason why they're often called 'Apollos of dogs'. For the most part, they have...
Behind the Breed: Aidis (Atlas Mountain Dogs)
Also known as Atlas Sheepdogs and Atlas Mountain Dogs, this breed is a muscular, energetic, and protective dog native to Northern Africa (particularly Morocco). They're medium in size, usually weighing 50-55 pounds and standing 20-24 inches tall. Aidis have some...
Behind the Breed: Poodles.
Poodles are, for many, an iconic and regal breed. These curly dogs are incredibly smart and popular, especially for some with dog allergies. There are three different sizes of poodles (standard, miniature, and toy) that have several kinds of coat colors. While there...
Behind the Breed: Treeing Walker Coonhound.
Despite the name, this breed is an active breed that can cover quite a bit of ground in a hurry. Like other hounds, the Treeing Walker Coonhound was bred to be hunting dogs and will definitely follow their noses after interesting smells if given the chance. These dogs...
Behind the Breed: Dalmatians.
These iconic dogs, known for their black spots on white fur, are incredibly intelligent, active, and affectionate. Dalmatians have made their way into popular culture many times, including through being circus performers, the Disney classic 101 Dalmatians, and by...
Behind the Breed: Pugs
This tiny, flat-faced breed is incredibly intelligent and playful. Because of their short noses, they get easily stressed out by hot and cold weather and can get allergies, colds, and other chronic breathing problems. Despite all that, pugs are quite playful and...
Behind the Breed: Australian Cattle Dog
These incredibly intelligent, sturdy dogs were, as you might imagine, initially developed in Australia to help herd cattle on large ranches. Their size and energy levels have proven useful for herding livestock and they excel at activities and sports like agility,...
Behind the Breed: Egyptian Mau Cats.
As the only naturally spotted domestic cat breed, Egyptian maus are unique and wonderful cats. In addition to their spots, these cats are also very fast and intelligent. They're great with people and other cats, making them great additions to any home, especially on...
Behind the Breed: Boston Terrier
Boston Terriers have been a popular breed for about a century now. Their tuxedo-like markings and affectionate, gentle personalities have earned them the nickname 'American Gentlemen', despite being initially bred to be fighting dogs. These dogs are relatively small,...
Behind the Breed: Akitas
Akitas are dignified, brave, loyal dogs that are devoted and affectionate to their family. Almost feline in nature, these dogs are usually clean and tidy in the house and can be rather independent. Their double coats are relatively short (only about two inches long)...