Dog Breeds
Each dog breed has unique traits in behavior, size, and energy level. Browse through different breeds to find the one that best matches your lifestyle and expectations.
Rat Terrier
An unmistakably American breed—whose name is often credited to Theodore Roosevelt—the Rat Terrier is a compact, resilient, smooth-coated working dog originally developed for vermin control. Available in two size varieties, Rat Terriers are cheerful, playful, and easy-to-carry companions known for their lively and upbeat personalities. Well balanced and compactly built, the Rat Terrier combines toughness with a refined, athletic appearance. The breed is divided into two sizes: Miniatures, standing between 10 and 13 inches at the shoulder, and Standards, measuring over 13 inches up to 18 inches. The smooth, glossy coat appears in a range of pied color patterns, defined by large patches of one or more colors set against a white background. With well-defined muscles and efficient movement, the Rat Terrier is built for stamina and productivity, capable of sustaining a full day of active work.
Miniature Pinscher
The leggy Miniature Pinscher, affectionately known as the “King of Toys,” is a proud, fearless, and lively companion with a striking personality. Compact yet confident, this glossy-coated toy breed carries itself like a much larger dog and is famous for its distinctive high-stepping “hackney” gait. Miniature Pinschers are sturdy, well-built dogs standing no more than 12.5 inches at the shoulder. Their smooth, shiny coat appears in solid red shades, as well as black-and-rust or chocolate-and-rust combinations. Dark, slightly oval eyes and high-set ears enhance the breed’s bold, self-assured expression. The hallmark of the Miniature Pinscher is its animated, high-stepping movement, reminiscent of a hackney horse trotting—an unmistakable feature that perfectly matches the breed’s confident, spirited nature.
Belgian Laekenois
Strong, agile, and full of vitality, the Belgian Laekenois is one of Belgium’s four native herding dogs. While closely related in structure and temperament to the Malinois, Belgian Sheepdog, and Tervuren, the Laekenois is distinguished by its unique coat color, texture, length, and its specific region of origin. Among the four Belgian herders—the Belgian Sheepdog, Malinois, Tervuren, and Laekenois—the Laekenois is the rarest. This sturdy and resilient dog is easily recognized by its rough, tousled coat, which appears in shades of red, fawn, or grayish tones. Dark shading around the muzzle highlights the breed’s alert expression, reflected in its dark, almond-shaped eyes. Protective by nature, the Belgian Laekenois is deeply devoted to its owner and attentive in guarding home and property. While reserved and observant around strangers, it is affectionate and friendly with familiar people. The coat requires regular brushing and occasional bathing, and as a true working dog, the Laekenois needs consistent daily exercise to remain balanced and content.
Irish Terrier
The Irish Terrier, often called the “Daredevil of the Emerald Isle,” is a bold, spirited, and courageous medium-sized terrier. Famous for its fiery red coat and equally fiery personality, this breed is fearless and determined when working, yet affectionate and gentle at home. Considered the prototype of the long-legged terrier, the Irish Terrier stands about 18 inches at the shoulder and combines strength with elegance and agility. Its body is well balanced, with clean, eye-catching lines that reflect both power and grace. The tight red coat mirrors the breed’s passionate temperament, completing a striking overall appearance. Lively, confident, and full of character, the Irish Terrier is a true delight for dog enthusiasts and leaves a lasting impression wherever it goes.
Italian Greyhound
A true Greyhound in miniature, the Italian Greyhound is an elegant toy companion known for its alertness, playfulness, and deep affection for its people. Though often seen as a decorative lapdog, at heart this breed remains a swift coursing hound with a strong instinct to chase. Italian Greyhounds are slender and refined, embodying the same grace and elegance as their larger Greyhound relatives. Ideally standing between 13 and 15 inches at the shoulder, they display the smooth, flowing lines typical of all sighthounds, highlighted by long, delicate legs with fine bone structure. This breed uniquely blends the attentiveness of a lapdog with the complexity and dignity of an ancient aristocratic hound. Bred for centuries as devoted companions and playful entertainers, Italian Greyhounds thrive on close contact and refuse to be overlooked. They strongly prefer the warmth of a lap or bed to the solitude of the floor. Despite their affectionate nature, they are true sighthounds and will instinctively sprint after fast-moving prey. With their short coat and low body fat, Italian Greyhounds are sensitive to cold and require extra care in cooler weather.
Pomeranian
The Pomeranian, long cherished by royalty and commoners alike, is often regarded as the ideal companion dog. Its luxurious coat, cheerful fox-like expression, and lively personality have secured the Pom’s place among the most popular toy breeds in the world. Despite weighing no more than seven pounds, the Pomeranian carries itself with the confidence and presence of a much larger dog. The breed’s abundant double coat, featuring a full ruff over the chest and shoulders, appears in nearly two dozen colors and a variety of patterns, though orange and red are the most commonly seen. Intelligent and alert, Pomeranians are quick learners who make excellent watchdogs and spirited family pets—best suited to homes with children old enough to understand that a toy dog is not a toy. Active yet adaptable, Poms get sufficient exercise through indoor play and short walks, making them well suited to both city and suburban living. While they readily learn tricks and games, their greatest joy lies in offering laughter, affection, and devoted companionship to their special person.
Cardigan Welsh Corgi
The Cardigan Welsh Corgi is a true masterpiece of selective breeding, with every detail of its structure perfectly adapted for herding cattle. Despite its working heritage, this breed is so friendly and sweet-natured that it would be cherished as a companion even without a single day of labor. Cardigans are long-bodied, low-set dogs with strong bone, short legs, and a deep chest, giving them surprising power, speed, and agility. They typically weigh between 25 and 34 pounds, with females generally lighter. The coat appears in a variety of colors, ranging from red to the distinctive and popular blue-merle pattern. One of the easiest ways to distinguish the Cardigan Welsh Corgi from its close relative, the Pembroke Welsh Corgi, is the tail: Cardigans have long tails, while Pembrokes do not. Intelligent, loyal, and alert, Cardigans are excellent watchdogs with a bark that belies their size. When properly socialized, they are affectionate with children and get along well with other pets. These sturdy and athletic herders love the outdoors and thrive when given both mental challenges and regular physical activity.
Basset Fauve de Bretagne
Intelligent, brave, and persistent, the Basset Fauve de Bretagne is a dedicated hunting hound capable of adapting to a variety of game and terrains. Though serious and focused in the field, it is equally valued as a delightful companion—cheerful in temperament, quick-minded, and eager to please its family. Also known as the Fawn-Colored Brittany Basset, this small yet sturdy breed features a rough, weather-resistant coat and a compact, muscular build. Despite its size, the Fauve is energetic and surprisingly swift. It generally gets along well with children and other household pets, but consistent training and early socialization are essential to prevent mischievous behavior. While not typically prone to excessive barking, the Fauve will certainly raise its distinctive hound voice and give chase if a rabbit dashes across the yard. Equally content exploring fields or relaxing beside its family on the sofa, the Basset Fauve de Bretagne blends working drive with affectionate companionship.
Parson Russell Terrier
The Parson Russell Terrier is a bold, intelligent terrier built for speed, courage, and independent thinking. Agile enough to keep pace with horses and fearless enough to dig into the ground and flush a fox from its den, the PRT is a true working terrier with a sharp mind of its own. Parson Russell Terriers stand between 12 and 15 inches at the shoulder and weigh approximately 13 to 17 pounds when in peak condition. Their bright, intelligent expression, predominantly white coat, and well-balanced build give them the charming appearance of a living plush toy. However, this cuteness is deceiving—beneath it lies a tough, determined little dog developed for the traditional English sport of fox hunting. Fast, resilient, and courageous, the PRT was bred to run with the hounds and boldly confront the challenges of the field.
Treeing Walker Coonhound
Intelligent, courageous, and level-headed, the Treeing Walker Coonhound is a true American classic, affectionately known as “The People’s Choice.” Despite the name, this breed is built to run, capable of covering vast distances with impressive speed and efficiency. Few sights are more thrilling to a hunter than watching a Treeing Walker in full pursuit—its long, powerful legs, strong driving hindquarters, and streamlined body working in perfect harmony to move swiftly across the terrain. Yet after the hunt, resting quietly by the campfire, this same athletic hound reveals a softer side, gazing up with a gentle, soulful expression that reflects its sweet and affectionate nature. This balance of speed, beauty, and warmth of character explains why the Treeing Walker Coonhound has earned its beloved reputation as the People’s Choice.
Cairn Terrier
Cairn Terriers are lively, cheerful little earthdogs originally bred to boldly hunt foxes and other small prey among the rocky landscapes of Scotland. Curious and alert by nature, Cairns enjoy environments where they can explore, dig, and stay mentally engaged. What enthusiasts call “Cairnishness” refers to the breed’s distinctive traits, including a short, broad head and a compact, low-set body that conveys strength without heaviness. Typically standing around 10 inches tall and measuring about 15 inches in length, the Cairn Terrier is small but sturdy. Its double coat consists of a harsh, wiry outer layer and a soft, insulating undercoat. A Cairn Terrier presents as a shaggy, bright-eyed dog with head, ears, and tail held confidently upright. Intelligent and spirited, the breed has been described as the “best little pal in the world.” Cairns are small enough to enjoy quiet moments curled up with their family, yet tough enough for energetic outdoor play. They thrive on close family interaction and are ideal for owners who appreciate classic terrier traits such as courage, independence, and unwavering loyalty.
Harrier
The Harrier is a fast, prey-driven pack hound of medium size, originally developed in medieval England for hunting hare. Friendly and outgoing by nature, this breed is noticeably larger than the Beagle, yet smaller than its other close relative, the English Foxhound. Often described as resembling a Beagle with greater strength and athleticism, the Harrier is a more powerful hound than its smaller cousin while remaining more compact than the English Foxhound, which contributed to its development. Standing between 19 and 21 inches at the shoulder, Harriers display the classic appearance of a traditional working pack hound. They feature a short, neat coat, soft low-set ears, a charmingly sweet expression, and a muscular, resilient build capable of sustaining long days in the field. A well-constructed Harrier moves with a smooth, efficient stride that reflects both endurance and balance.