The brave, entertaining Irish Terrier is often referred to as a "daredevil" by his supporters. This medium-sized dog is rather like a smaller version of the Airedale with his bearded face. Their wiry coat lies close to the body in shades of red to wheaten and has a thick undercoat. From 5 weeks puppies often develop black top hair which gradually disappears by around 16 weeks. They are considered to be one of the oldest Terrier breeds and were originally used for hunting animals that live in dens, such as otters and water rats, but have since been a working dog in other areas, too, such as with the police. Good natured and full of energy, they are ready for anything. Most are intelligent and very trainable, but have a strong protective instinct so their training has to take this into account. They are very adult and child friendly but may not be trusted around some small animals because of their strong urge to chase anything that moves and they need plenty of daily exercise. Regular weekly brushing is usually all that is required, although they should be hand stripped twice a year. Irish Terriers are generally a very healthy breed with no common health problems. There has been a condition in the past relating to the pads but this is rarely seen these days.

Although this little dog can run like the wind, he loves all the comforts of home. They are a fine and delicate looking little dog with the slim frame and deep narrow chest of a standard Greyhound but in miniature. Their coat is short and glossy and is either white with coloured markings or coloured with white markings. Images of dogs like Italian Greyhounds have been found all over the world, including ancient Egypt, for thousands of years but despite their racey shape, they have largely been prized pets. They are playful, intelligent, affectionate, eager to please and enjoy being cuddled as much as going for a good run. They naturally get on well with people and animals. They are an active little dog both indoors and out so a good daily run is important. To keep the coat looking glossy it is only necessary to rub it with towelling. They are prone to epilepsy, slipped stifle, fractures and PRA. The delicate puppies can fracture a bone easily so extra care must be taken with them although the adults are hardier than they look.

While many people are familiar with the term 'Jack Russell Terrier', the breed has only been officially recognised by the Kennel Club in the UK since 2016. The Jack Russell Terrier is a working dog, able to run with the hounds, or squeeze into underground dens. They can be a wonderful companion, but their excellent hunting skills do need an outlet if they are to be content family pets! Common health issues affecting the Jack Russell Terrier include inherited eye diseases and deafness. They can be prone to dislocation of the knee caps and a disease of the hip joints.

The Japanese Chin, also known as the Japanese Spaniel, has royal connections, favoured as a pet of the Japanese nobility. They are a toy dog with a broad head, large eyes and short muzzle. They have a very long coat which is white with markings in one colour e.g. black, lemon, sable, red etc. Officially, the nose should match the coloured patch on the coat. Although called the Japanese Chin, they actually come from China and were bred as a companion dog. They are naturally lively, loyal and affectionate to their owners and are very intelligent. They can be good at learning tricks. They may need to be taught not to be wary of strangers and in turn, children should be taught not to play rough with them but they generally get on well with other animals. They are an active dog indoors and although not in need of a lot of exercise, appreciate a daily walk too. The coat needs to be brushed regularly and the eyes and ears checked for signs of infection. They are prone to eye and breathing problems and are sensitive to extremes of temperature.

The feisty little Japanese Spitz has an attractive personality but they do like the sound of their own voice. They are a small spitz breed with a striking, long, pure white coat that stands out. The whiteness makes the black eyes and nose stand out. The hair on the legs is shorter but has feathering. Their origins are unknown except that they come from Japan. They look very much like a small Samoyed and it has been suggested that they originated from them. They are intelligent, alert and playful. They are active and enjoy sports like agility. They have a tendency to bark unless this is curbed. They are generally sociable to adults, children and other animals. Although active indoors, they need a good daily walk too. The long coat with its thick undercoat needs brushing and combing regularly but there are no known health problems.

The Kerry Blue is the national terrier of Ireland and has a reputation for being a natural entertainer. These are a sturdy, medium-sized dog. They have a long head with ears that flop forward at the tips and a bearded chin. Unlike many similar looking terriers, the coat is soft and wavy and comes in shades of blue to grey. They hail from County Kerry in Ireland and were originally used for hunting, guarding and as a general companion. They are very intelligent and are natural performers. Fond of their owners, they are also a good guard dog although they don't bark unnecessarily. They are naturally protective and can be willful but can also be trained to be sociable to strangers, children and animals. They are a sporty dog and even though they tend to be active indoors, they will need plenty of outdoor exercise too. They need quite a lot of brushing and combing, they can be trimmed and need the hair pulling out of their ears to avoid infection. However, they have practically no odour, even when wet. They are normally a very healthy, long-lived breed.

The Komondor, with his white, flocked coat, easily blends in with the sheep he has been bred to guard. But, beware of thinking of him as a meek little lamb, he is a fierce protector. They are a large, muscular dog with a large head and big bone structure. However, it is difficult to see any part of the dog clearly because of the enormous, white, felted, corded coat that can reach up 11 inches long. They came with the Cumans into Tibet hundreds of years ago. Their name means "Cuman Dog". They were, and still are, used to guard sheep. They are bred to work independently, guarding a flock against any kind of threat including wolves and bears. As a result, they are fiercely protective and not naturally biddable. They need to be trained to be sociable towards other animals and strangers and, if they are to live with children, it is best to raise them with children. They need quite a lot of exercise but left to their own devices will tend to sleep so need to be taken for a brisk daily walk. Due to their coat, they are happiest outdoors and can live outdoors in many climates for most of the year. Their coat must never be brushed or combed but they can be bathed, although the coat takes a long time to dry and must be dried fully. They are prone to hip dysplasia, bloat and skin problems.

The Korean Jindo is an official national treasure of Korea and because of this it is very difficult to export purebreds out of Korea. They are a medium-sized spitz-type breed with a squarish body and a double but short coat that comes in a wide variety of colours. In Korea they were originally used for hunting. They worked independently, returning to the huntsman with the prey. They are intelligent, strong-willed and independent and can be quite territorial but they bond closely with their owner and can be very loyal and obedient. They have a strong protective instinct and prey drive so are wary of strangers and a possible threat to small wildlife. Careful training needs to be undertaken to overcome this. They need plenty of exercise but teaching a very secure recall is necessary because of their prey drive. It is not wise to leave them in a yard as they get bored easily and have amazing abilities to scale walls up to eight feet high. The short coat does not need too much looking after throughout most of the year but it sheds heavily twice a year when daily brushing is a necessity. The only health problem they are known to be prone to is hypothyroidism.

The Lagotto is a medium sized dog, quite well muscled with a largish head. They can come in brown (which fades to Brown roan) or white with patches in shades of orange or brown. Never black nor pure white. The most distinctive adult feature is the tightly curled coat. Although originally used for duck hunting in their native Italy, they later became specialised truffle hunters, the only dog used for this specific purpose. Outside Italy, they are still used for hunting waterfowl and their waterproof coat helps to protect them in this. When out hunting truffles in Italy, the closely curled coat helps to protect them from low lying shrub. They are loyal, friendly, intelligent and very trainable but need an experienced dog owner who will be committed to focused training. They make an excellent working dog but if not working, they need plenty of opportunity to exercise their brain. They do well in competitive sports. They are devoted to their owners but may be initially reserved with strangers. They can easily be trained to get along with other animals. They need a lot of exercise and have a natural ability to retrieve. They love to dig so fencing would need to be secure and maybe their own separate area of garden if you are an avid gardener. They're also very fond of water...and mud! The coat does not shed and as a consequence is prone to matting if allowed to get too long so needs regular care by combing and should be clipped off completely several times a year. It should never be brushed or blow-dried as this destroys the distinctive curls. There are a range of health conditions that can be tested for, including Juvenile Epilepsy, Lagotto Storage Disease and Improper Coat as well as hip and elbow dysplasia. Responsible breeders will ensure that their breeding dogs are screened to avoid occurrence. This breed is very rare in the UK and most of the few responsible breeders have waiting lists, so be prepared to be patient for a puppy. Because of the rarity, "rescues" seldom happen.

The Lancashire Heeler is a tough little character who likes to be busy. They are a small dog with a long body and short legs in relation to the body length. The coat is black with tan markings or liver with tan markings. It is short and sleek in summer but grows thicker in winter when it develops a noticeable mane. Like other low to the ground dogs such as the Corgi, the Heeler was bred to herd cattle by nipping at the ankles, but is rarely used for herding today. They are intelligent and eager to learn but may not be the easiest breed to train. Because of their instinct to nip ankles, especially when excited, this needs to be trained out of them. They generally like people but may be a little wary of strangers and they tend to prefer the company of older rather than younger children. They can be friendly to other dogs but naturally want to be in charge. Care needs to be taken around small mammals as they are the Heeler's normal prey. They enjoy a daily walk but tend to be very active indoors too. The coat is easy to maintain with regular brushing and combing. There is a health condition in the breed called Primary Lens Luxation for which there is a DNA test. All puppies should be bred from health tested parents or those that are hereditarily clear of lens luxation.

A well trained Leonberger is a gentle giant that loves human company and is great with children. They are a huge, muscular dog with a dense, thick, waterproof double coat. This comes in shades of creamy yellow through to reddish brown in a variety of combinations. The face should have a black "mask" within clearly specified limits. They have a thick mane and often have webbed feet which often makes them powerful swimmers. They were bred in the 19th century by Heinrich Essing, the Mayor of Leonberg in Germany. His aim was to breed something that resembled a lion. Although a good guard dog, they have a very steady temperament and will normally walk away from aggravation rather than respond to it. They are fearless, affectionate, obedient, loyal and very intelligent. They naturally tend to be tolerant and get on well with strangers, children and other animals. They are generally quite sedentary indoors so a good daily walk is essential although they don't need a lot of exercise. They love to swim and adult Leonbergers can be taught to pull carts and sledges. The thick coat needs regular grooming and they will shed heavily at certain times of the year. They are prone to hip dysplasia and other bone disorders and have been known to have eyelid problems too.

In the 1600s, the Lowchen or "Little Lion" had to tolerate not just being groomed to look like a lion but to having it's exposed skin used as a foot warmer for noble ladies. They are a small but sturdy dog with a long, soft, dense, silky coat that comes in white, black or lemon but they can also be speckled. They are often clipped to look like a lion: the hindquarters, all but the tip of the tail and part of the front legs are clipped. They found favour as a companion dog and originate in Europe, probably Germany because Lowchen means "Little Lion" in German. They are tougher than they look and can be a little wilful but they are basically sweet natured, cheerful, intelligent and eager to learn. They are normally good natured towards strangers, children and other animals. They are an active breed indoors but enjoy a daily walk too. They shed very little but their coat needs regular grooming as it tangles easily. They are usually very healthy but can be prone to kneecap problems.

Although elegant in appearance, the Manchester Terrier has the reputation of being the best rat catcher of all the breeds although they can also make a very loving companion to humans. There are two types, Toy and Standard. Both are compact and muscular with a shining, short, black and tan coat. Their heads are long and tapering with long, erect ears, although in the Standard the ear tips fold forward. They are the oldest known terrier, originating in the Uk and bred to hunt vermin. The Manchester Terrier needs plenty of outlets for physical and mental exercise. They are very intelligent and eager to learn and although independent are loving and faithful to their owners. They can do well in agility and obedience. They can be sociable with strangers, children and other dogs but may not be trustable with small mammals. They are powerful and agile and although very active indoors, need plenty of exercise outside too. They can run very fast but their prey instinct inclines them to chase too. The short, smooth coat is very easy to care for. They are generally healthy but problems have been found with certain blood disorders.

The Mastiff (often referred to as the English Mastiff) is huge. In the eighteenth century, they were given this description: "As a lion is to a cat, so is a Mastiff compared to a dog". This is a powerful, muscular dog with a smooth, short coat which comes in golden, tiger or brindle. Their head is large and square with a black mask and soft jowls. They have a long history. During the time of the Roman invasion of Britain, some were taken back to Rome for fighting in the Arenas but their main use, over the years has been for guarding and pulling weights. A natural guard: watchful, intelligent and calm, they will not warn of danger, they seldom bark, neither are they aggressive, their tendency is to simply hold an intruder. Their size makes it important to ensure that they are trained to behave impeccably. Mastiffs are often good with children and other animals but may be wary of strangers. They are inclined to be sedentary indoors so a good daily walk is important to keep them fit. The short coat is easy to care for with occasional brushing and bathing. They are prone to hip and elbow dysplasia and bloat and some suffer from CHD, gastric torsion, ectropion, PPM, vaginal hyperplasia and PRA. Many also tend to drool, wheeze and snore.

The Miniature Pinscher is a hardy, friendly and spirited little companion, often called the "King of the Toys". They look like a little Doberman, a small, compact, well proportioned dog with a short, sleek coat. The coat comes in variations of a dark colour with reddish markings: black and rust, chocolate and tan, red and stag red (red with black hairs). They originate from Germany where they were bred to be ratters. They are playful, alert and intelligent, responding well to training and often doing well in competitive obedience and agility. They can be something of a watchdog too and will alert you to the presence of strangers. They are easy to train to be sociable with strangers and tend to naturally be good with other pets and children. They have plenty of energy and tend to be active indoors as well as enjoying a daily walk. The smooth, short hair is easy to care for and they are generally healthy and not prone to any specific problems.

The Neapolitan Mastiff has an impressively ancient line, going back to the time when they were a Roman fighting dog, but their temperament is much more stable than their appearance would suggest. They are a powerfully built, stocky looking dog. Their impressively large head is enhanced with a mass of wrinkles and folds with a large dewlap. Their coat is short and shiny and comes in gray, blue, black, mahogany, tawny and, rarely but occasionally, chocolate, sometimes with brindle and white markings. A small amount of white markings are allowed on their chest and toes but none on their face. In ancient Roman times, they were used for combat, both in a war situation and in the arena. They subsequently went on to find favour as a guard dog. Neapolitan Mastiffs can be affectionate, intelligent, calm and well behaved. Although their first instinct is to protect, a well trained Neapolitan Mastiff will only use their full force when commanded. Usually quiet, only barking if necessary, they can be wary of strangers although loving to the family and they can be trained to accept other people and animals. They tend to be inactive indoors but need a good deal of exercise so a long daily walk each day is essential. The short coat is easy to maintain but the amount of drool they produce often needs regular attention and a towel kept nearby. They are prone to cherry eye, hip dysplasia, bloat and joint pain from growth (this last usually stops naturally). Because of the large head size, puppies are usually born via caesarian.

Norfolk Terriers are one of the smallest of the working terriers but are sweeter natured than many. They are a short-legged, sturdy little dog with a wiry coat that comes in red, wheaten, tan, black and tan, or grizzle. They are very similar to Norwich Terriers and until 1964 were considered the same dog (collectively known as the Norwich Terrier), but Norfolks have ears that are dropped at the tip and are more angular in shape. They originate in the UK where they were used as ratters and to flush out foxes that had gone to ground. They are a busy, brave, affectionate little dog. They're intelligent and trainable but need to be kept busy. A bored Norfolk Terrier might start barking or digging. They are a sociable little dog that enjoys the company of people, children and other dogs but may not be trusted around small mammals. They are active most of the time and enjoy a daily walk and a good game of fetch. The wiry coat needs regular brushing and combing and occasional clipping. They are generally healthy but may be prone to back problems and eye disease.

The Elkhound is one of the oldest hunting dogs. They have a fine sense of scent, capable of smelling game from over a mile away, and were around at the time of cave men. They are a strong and sturdy medium-sized spitz-style dog. Their double coat is thick and hard and comes in grey with black tips. They have a black muzzle, ears and tip of the tail too. The name Elkhound is translated from a Norwegian word meaning "Moose Dog" and originally they were a hunting dog used for tracking and hunting a range of animals including moose, elk, bear and mountain lion. Their working method was to hold prey and bark until the hunter arrived so they are inclined to be insistently vocal in trying to get attention. They can be difficult to obedience train but are friendly, loving and loyal to their family. They are usually fine with children and other dogs but may be wary of strangers and possibly not trustworthy around other animals. Although active indoors they can take a lot of outdoor exercise too but are happy with less if need be. They need regular brushing and combing and shed heavily at certain times of the year. A special brush is needed at shedding time as the old hair clings to the new but their coat is easy to keep clean. They are prone to hip dysplasia, some skin problems and PRA.

The Old English Sheepdog has a distinctive shaggy coat. Back in the 18th Century, the farmers would shear them along with the sheep to make warm clothes and blankets for the winter. They are a large and strong but compact dog with a large head. Their double coat has a coarse outer coat with a soft, waterproof undercoat. The outercoat is long and covers their entire body including hanging over their eyes. It comes in combinations of greys and whites. They are sometimes born tailless. Possibly originating in Europe but finding favour as a sheep herder in the UK, the Old English Sheepdog has been used to herd reindeer, too, as their coat enables them to cope with the cold. They make a good family pet: stable, friendly, loving and happy to fit in around people. They are loyal, intelligent, trainable and protective with a resonant bark that sounds like a cracked bell. They are people friendly, good with children and get along with other animals. They are fairly active indoors but need a good daily run outside too. The long hair needs a lot of brushing and combing to stop it from matting and needs clipping regularly. They can be prone to certain blood disorders, hip dysplasia and cataracts and may have a gene that makes them sensitive to certain drugs.

The name "Papillon" means "butterfly" and it's easy to see where the name comes. For such a delicate little dog, they have very large erect ears exaggerated by long fringes. They are a fine-boned little dog with a slightly rounded head and those distinctive ears. Occasionally, Papillons have ears with drop tips. They are called Phalene Papillons (moth). Their tail is carried over their back with long hair that fountains down and they come in white with coloured patches and a coloured mask. They are one of the oldest breeds of dog and were always a companion. The original dog, known as the Dwarf Spaniel, had drop ears like Phalenes. The erect ears and change of name came later. They can be a charming dog: friendly, intelligent, playful and proud. They are very trainable and can be good at agility, obedience and learning tricks. They are naturally people, children and animal friendly. They are a good watchdog too. They are fairly active indoors but are tougher than they look and enjoy a good daily walk outside. The silky coat needs daily brushing and combing and occasional bathing. Teeth need regular cleaning as they are particularly prone to building up tartar. They can be prone to kneecap problems and some have difficulty under anaesthesia. Occasionally, their fontanel (soft spot in the skull) does not close properly.

At one time Pekingese could only be owned by Chinese royalty. Anyone who stole one would be executed and if you were not of noble birth you had to bow to them. They are a small, compact dog with a stocky body that is slightly longer than it is tall. Their head is large for the body-size with a flat front face and long ears that seem to blend in. The double coat has a long outer layer that comes in a variety of colours. Named after the ancient Chinese city of Peking, now Beijing, they were owned by Chinese emperors and sacrificed with them on their death to accompany them to the afterlife. They are spirited but sensitive, playful yet dignified and naturally brave although need to be taught not to guard their possessions. They can be very loving and make excellent companions. They are often people, children and animal friendly. They are quite inactive indoors and can easily become overweight so care needs to be taken of their food intake and they need a daily walk. The long coat needs daily brushing and combing. Pekingese are prone to catching colds, herniated disks dislocated kneecaps, ingrowing eyelashes breathing problems and heart problems. They also often have difficult births.

Picardy Sheepdogs, known as Berger Picard in their native France, were nearly extinct after World Wars 1 and 2 but have had something of a revival since then. They have appeared in a number of films in the USA because their rustic look gives them the appearance of a lovable cross-breed. They are a medium-sized dog with a thick, wiry, waterproof coat that is normally fawn or brindle, which is quite easy to maintain. They can also be quite amusing with a tendency to look as though they're laughing or smiling. The Picardy is hardy and well-muscled but not a heavy dog and they can take plenty of exercise. They are lively and intelligent, if a little reserved around strangers, but are quiet, loyal and love company.

The Polish Lowland Sheepdog may look cuddly but they need plenty of opportunity to exercise their body and brain. They are a medium-sized, shaggy dog with a lot of hair around their forehead, cheeks and chin, which gives them a friendly appearance. They are quite well muscled and broad and all coat colours are acceptable. They may have descended from corded herding dogs and have excellent herding skills although today are often more of a pet. With firm and clear training, they can make a happy, dependable and affectionate family dog. They are intelligent, fairly easy to train and have an excellent memory. Naturally child-friendly, they can be wary of strangers, but are generally good with dogs and other pets. They are bred to be a working dog, to be outside and follow instruction. As a result, they need a lot of mental and physical exercise. Regular grooming is needed, at least once a week, to keep their coat free from matting. They are a hardy dog with no known health problems.

The lively little Miniature Poodle is a natural performer and has a long history of working in the circus. Poodles come in a variety of sizes: Standard (the largest), Miniature (smaller) and Toy (smallest), although some countries also recognise a Medium-sized which sits between Standard and Miniature. They all have a generally square look, a long, straight muzzle and hanging ears. They do not shed but their curly coat is typically close cut and comes in a variety of solid colours. The coat can be corded but keeping it curly is more popular. The original Standard Poodle was bred in Europe, as a water retrieval dog and the Miniature and Toy poodles have been bred down from that. The smaller types were sometimes used to hunt truffles but they have mainly found favour as performers and companions. They are highly intelligent, alert, active and eager to please. They do well at active sports such as agility and are very good at learning tricks. With the right training they can be stranger, children and dog friendly as long as their cuteness doesn't encourage people to spoil them. They have plenty of energy and greatly enjoy being outside. They love water. Poodles need their long ears checking and their coat clipping regularly. There are a variety of clips, but Miniature and Toy Poodles often just have a "puppy clip" - short all over. They are prone to eye problems, heart disease, diabetes, epilepsy, ear infections and skin allergies.

The sweet little Toy Poodle is probably the Poodle most suited to town life but has a history of performing tricks in the Circus too. Poodles come in a variety of sizes: Standard (the largest), Miniature (smaller) and Toy (smallest) although some countries also recognise a Medium-sized which sits between Standard and Miniature. They all have a generally square look, a long, straight muzzle and hanging ears. They do not shed but their curly coat is typically close cut and comes in a variety of solid colours. The coat can be corded but keeping it curly is more popular. The original Standard Poodle was bred in Europe, as a water retrieval dog and the Miniature and Toy poodles have been bred down from that. The smaller types were sometimes used to hunt truffles but they have mainly found favour as performers and companions. Like all Poodles, the Toy is highly intelligent and trainable. They are a cheerful, lively little dog. With the right training they can be stranger, children and dog friendly as long as their cuteness doesn't encourage people to spoil them. They are an active dog but will settle indoors as long as given plenty of exercise outside. They love water. The poodle needs their long ears checking and their coat clipping regularly. There are a variety of clips but miniature Poodles often just have a "puppy clip" - short all over. They are prone to eye problems, heart disease, Anemia, diabetes, epilepsy, slipped stifle, ear infections digestive problems and skin allergies.

The Irish Wolfhound is the tallest breed in the world so, despite their gentle and affectionate nature, a lot of thought has to be given before taking on a dog of this size. They are the size of a small pony, everything about them is long but well-built and they have a shaggy, wiry coat that comes in a range of colours but is commonly grey. Their name derives from the fact that they were, at one time, actually used for hunting prey like wolves, boar and deer and they were highly prized but they fell out of favour when there were no more boar and wolves in Ireland to hunt. Like other giant dogs, Irish Wolfhounds are good natured, loyal, intelligent and eager to please but they can be rather clumsy as they grow and have to get used to their size. They get along well with all other animals, adults and children. They need a decent amount of exercise but no more than many of the smaller breeds and care must be taken when they are young not to put too much strain on their giant frame. Their coat needs regular brushing and occasional stripping. They can be prone to cardiomyopathy, bone cancer, bloat, PRA, Von Willebrand disease and hip dysplasia.

The Italian Spinone is a dependable dog both with the family and out in the field. They are a large, rugged looking dog with a thick, wiry coat which is essentially white but can have shades of cream, orange and roan in it. The head is long and has a moustached look and the back has a slight dip. They are sometimes known as the Italian Pointer and have a long history of being a popular dog for taking hunting. Images of them go back as far as the Renaissance. They are an intelligent, tolerant, happy and easy-going breed that takes instruction well and is normally very quiet, although might occasionally howl. They have good scenting ability and a very soft mouth. They get along very well with all people, children especially, and all animals. They enjoy a long walk and have tremendous stamina but are not a "racy" sort of dog. Their coat protects them from all weather conditions and many love to swim. As with most wire-haired dogs, regular brushing and occasional stripping are needed. They are generally a healthy dog but cases of hip dysplasia and bloat have been known. There is one hereditary disease worth checking for which is an abnormality in movement caused by a problem in the brain.

The Japanese Akita Inu is considered a national dog of Japan and one of seven breeds designated as a National Monument. In recent years the Akita and Akita Inu were separated into two distinct breeds. The Akita Inu has a lighter weight body and very specific colouring but they are still a large spitz type with a thick double coat, a plush tail carried over their back, quite a heavy, flat head and small triangular eyes. Used originally as a hunting dog, they have proved useful more recently in the police and armed forces. Although loyal and good natured towards their family, they can also be territorial and stubborn so need firm and careful training. They need to be trained to not show aggression towards strangers and other animals and they need long daily walks. Their coat requires a good deal of brushing and will shed heavily at certain times of the year. They should only be bathed when necessary as this removes the coat's natural waterproofing. They can be prone to a number of problems with hips, thyroid, skin, eyes, immune diseases and knee problems.

With it's short haired, stiff coat, the Japanese Shiba Inu is a handsome and tidy little dog. They are the smallest of the spitz type breeds from Japan. They have typical spitz proportions with a curled tail and fairly short double coat. The coat tends to be reddish with distinctive white markings especially on the cheeks, sides of muzzle and chest. They were bred to hunt small game and flush out birds, although they have been used to hunt larger game such as deer too. The name Shiba means "small" and "brushwood". They are alert, brave, loving and very trainable. They are also quite clean and quiet. They tend to get on well with children but may be wary around strangers. They are usually trustworthy around dogs and cats but possibly less so around small pets and wildlife. They need plenty of exercise and have great stamina. The stiff, shorthaired coat is easy to groom but it's best not to bath them too often as it removes the natural waterproofing. They are prone to hip dysplasia, slipped kneecap and PRA.

The Keeshond is friendly and sociable with everyone and keen to tell them so. The Keeshond is a spitz-type dog, a little like a small Samoyed with a long coat that stands out. They are larger than the similar looking Japanese Spitz and tend to come in shades of grey rather than white. It is unknown what they were bred for in their native Holland but when they came to the USA, they were nicknamed the Dutch Barge Dog and worked as a watch dog and guard dog on river boats, barges and farms. They are very trainable and affectionate and can be good at performing. They are good at warning of danger but need to be discouraged from barking too much. They generally get on well with people, are excellent with children and are normally fine with other animals. Although active indoors, they need a good daily walk too but their thick coat makes hot climates difficult for them. The long coat and thick undercoat need regular brushing and they will moult heavily twice a year. They are prone to hip dysplasia, skin problems and heart disease.

The King Charles Spaniel is often confused with the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel but it is actually smaller and a much older and rarer breed. They are small with a domed head and short muzzle, the result of cross-breeding with the Pug in the nineteenth century. Their bite is slightly undershot, their ears are long and their coat silky. They come in the same range of colours as the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel: tricolour, red, black and tan, and red and white. Although originally bred as a small gun dog, they have been popular since the fifteenth century in the royal courts of Europe as a companion. They are reserved but gentle and affectionate with a stable temperament. They enjoy nothing more than affection from their owners. They naturally get on well with adults, children and animals. They are not a high energy dog but enjoy a daily walk. Their long, silky coat needs regular grooming but is not difficult to maintain. They are prone to eye and heart problems and their short muzzle also inclines them to respiratory problems which may cause difficulties with anaesthetics.

This attractive little dog is the only one known to have "earrings". This is the name given to the long, dark hairs that dangle from the tips of the ears. They are a small Spaniel type of dog with a silky coat which is white but covered in distinctive red and orange markings. They have a slender but nearly square frame. Along with their "earrings", they also have a white plume on their tail. They originate from Holland where they were originally used for duck hunting. They are good-natured, friendly and intelligent. They're also very agile. They can be wary of strangers but can be socialised to strangers, children and animals. They tend to be quite sedate indoors but need plenty of exercise outdoors. Their waterproof coat is easy to maintain with regular grooming. They are prone to blood clotting problems, eye problems, kneecap problems and a particular neurological disease.

The excellent all-terrain gundog can make a loving and loyal companion as long as he is given plenty to do. This is a wirehaired, strong, pointing type of gundog. They have the bushy eyebrows, beard and moustache of many wirehaireds. They can come in a variety of colours. They were developed by a Dutch breeder called Eduard Korthals who wanted a gundog that could hunt in all kinds of terrain. They are intelligent and full of enthusiasm and are most skilled at hunting small game. They love to work and have an exceptional sense of smell as well as the ability to think for themselves, but they can be gentle and affectionate too in a family setting. As long as there are plenty of outlets for physical and mental exercise, these are friendly and loving to children, strangers and other dogs. They have a lot of energy and stamina and love to run and swim. They need a good deal of exercise. Their coat needs occasional brushing and combing but also trimming and stripping. There have been cases of hip dysplasia.

The Lakeland Terrier is a busy, friendly and confident little dog but they might need to be reminded that they don't need to bark to let you know that they're around. They are small and sturdy with a generally rectangular look and straight front legs. Their double coat is soft underneath and wiry on top. They come in a variety of solid colours and also with "saddle" markings in specific areas. The breed dates back to the 1800s in the UK. They were bred to hunt den animals like badgers and foxes to protect farm animals and crops. They are alert, affectionate, lively, brave and intelligent. They may be a little wilful but are very trainable and like mental stimulation. They are naturally sociable with people, very good with children and other dogs but need to be taught to get on with other animals. They are an active breed indoors but need good, daily, outdoor exercise too. They are agile and have good stamina. The wiry coat needs minimal grooming but does need occasional trimming and stripping. They are hardy with no known health problems.

The Large Munsterlander is a fine companion, either out hunting with his elegant gait or enjoying the company of a family who love the great outdoors. They are a large gundog with a balanced body and a fine, black head. Their coat is white with multiple black patches and is long, silky and dense. They originate from Munster in Germany and were bred as a track, point and retrieve gundog. They can work on both land and water. They love to play, are brave, friendly, loyal, intelligent and very trainable. They do well in obedience competitions. They usually get on well with strangers, children, and other animals although may have a tendency to chase small mammals. They are happiest outdoors and active with lots to exercise their body and brain. They love to retrieve, especially love water and have great stamina. They need regular brushing and combing with the males' longer coat needing to be groomed more regularly. They also shed heavily at certain times in the year. The breed is generally healthy although there have been some cases of hip dysplasia.

Named after the sacred city of Lhasa in Tibet, the Lhasa Apso was at one time considered a sacred dog. It was believed that when the dog's master died, his soul entered the Lhasa Apso's body. They are a hardy little dog with a body longer than it is high and a tail that curls over the back. They have a dense, double coat which covers the whole body including the head and ears which can come in many colours. The coat could naturally reach the floor but they are often trimmed to make grooming easier. They were bred by Tibetan monks as a guard dog for temples and monasteries. They are friendly, spirited and intelligent. They have a stubborn streak but can make a very good pet, affectionate and loving to friends and family. While they are head strong, they are keen to learn with gentle, positive training methods. They are quite jovial dogs and a bit of a clown. They have excellent hearing and will give plenty of vocal warning of any perceived threat. They are naturally wary of strangers but a well brought up Lhasa Apso can be sociable with strangers, children and other animals. They are an active breed indoors but enjoy a daily walk too and have surprising stamina. Regular brushing and combing keeps the coat matt free but this is easier if they are trimmed. Some health problems have been reported: skin problems, hip dysplasia, kidney problems, eye problems and ulcers but they are generally a very healthy and long-living dog. Diet plays a huge role in some of the skin conditions and regular grooming helps with skin issues.

Once loved by royalty, it is said that noble ladies carried these little dogs around in their sleeves. They are a small, sturdy dog with long, silky white or off-white hair which sets off their black eyes and black nose. For ease of grooming the coat is often trimmed into a "puppy" cut. They originate in Italy where they were a popular lap dog owned by nobility all over the world. Bred to be a companion, they are lovable and loving, lively and playful. They are a good watch dog and will not hesitate to warn of intruders. They are highly intelligent and good at learning tricks and they are normally sociable with people and other animals. They are an active breed indoors but enjoy a daily walk too. They love to play outdoors and may enjoy jumping in puddles. The very soft coat needs a lot of care with daily brushing and combing. They find very cold or very hot conditions difficult, are prone to chills and sunburn. They may have digestive problems, teeth problems, skin, eye and breathing problems and slipped stifle.

The Maremma Sheepdog is a large guardian who will naturally protect his family and home in a calm and dignified manner. They are a very large dog with a dense double coat and a bear-like head. The coat is quite long, harsh, has a slight wave and comes in shades of white and cream. They originate in Italy where they were used for guarding sheep and are still used for that today. As flock guardians they are brave, an excellent guard dog and naturally independent so are not an easy dog to obedience train but they are affectionate, loyal and intelligent. They are normally good with children, other dogs and other animals but may be a little wary of strangers. They much prefer to be outside and do not fair well in hot conditions. If not living outside, they need long daily walks. The thick hair needs regular grooming but there are no known health problems.

The Mexican Hairless, or Xolo, is one of the oldest known breeds, dating back over 3,000 years. Not only valued as a companion, they were a popular "hot water bottle" on a cold night. Bitterly cold weather called for a "Three Dog Night". There are three sizes: Intermediate, Miniature and Standard and actually two "coat" types which come in a variety of colours. The completely hairless are the more popular but around one in every 5 born has a short, shiny coat. They are a muscular and hardy dog with a broad skull and large upright ears. Their Mexican name means "God-Dog" and the ancient Aztecs and Mayans thought they had healing properties and a special connection to the gods. This meant that they were sometimes sacrificed as an offering or buried with their owners when they died. The smaller Xolos were companions, bed warmers and even eaten as a delicacy. The larger were more for protection. They are extremely loyal and bond quickly and easily. They have been known to climb trees and ride horses to be with their owner. It is important that they are given the opportunity to bond with the whole family or they can become a one person dog. They are very intelligent and athletic and do well at agility and obedience. They are naturally protective of their family so need to be taught to accept strangers and other animals. Young Xolos need a lot of exercise for their body and brain. They do calm down as they mature but they'll always enjoy a daily walk. They tend not to run off as they'd rather be with their owner. Obviously the hairless do not need brushing but a little moisturiser and sun screen in hot weather is a good idea, something mild and hypoallergenic. They are normally a long-lived breed with no known health problems.

The Miniature Schnauzer was developed by crossing the Schnauzer with the Affenpinscher to create a handy scaled down version suitable for town living. They are a small, sturdy, squarely-proportioned dog. Their head is approximately rectangular-shaped and clipped to give the appearance of a bushy beard, moustache and eyebrows with ears that sit close in the shape of small Vs. Their double coat is wiry with a soft undercoat and comes in black, white, salt / pepper and black / silver. They are German in origin and were used as ratters, although the name Schnauzer comes from the German word "Schnauze", meaning "muzzle". They are a happy little dog, intelligent, loving and playful. They are an alert watchdog but do not bark but have a kind of low howl. They generally enjoy human company and can be trained to get along with other dogs although may be inclined to chase small wildlife. They tend not to be too active indoors but are quite agile and enjoy daily brisk walks or jogs. They need regular brushing and combing and occasional trimming or stripping. They are generally hardy but can be prone to liver disease, kidney stones, diabetes, skin disorders, von Willebrand's disease, cysts and hereditary eye problems.

What the St Bernard is to land, the Newfoundland is to the sea. They are a natural and outstanding water-rescue dog to whom many people have owed their lives. In 1919, a 'Newfie' was awarded a gold medal for pulling a lifeboat containing 20 people to safety. They look like a huge, fluffy bear but underneath the thick, double coat is a strong and powerful dog. Their feet are webbed and their coat is oily and water-resistant. They can be black, brown or 'landseer' which is white with black markings. The black or brown can have a splash of white on chest, toes and tip of tail. They have a long history of helping the fishermen in Canada, they rescued people and goods from the sea and could also haul things on land and be an effective watch and guard dog. They can be slow to train but are very sweet natured. They are calm and obedient, loyal and trustworthy. Although they make a good guard dog, they are more likely to hold than attack an intruder. They are good natured with people, including strangers if reassured that they are friends, good with other animals and especially with children. They are quite sedentary indoors so need a decent daily walk. They prefer cool and shade, their thick coat makes them uncomfortable in hot climates. They should be brushed regularly, especially during times of seasonal heavy shedding but bathing should be avoided as this strips away the coat's natural waterproofing oils. They are prone to a heart disease called sub-aortic stenosis (SAS) and hip dysplasia.

The Norwegian Buhund is a quick learner with a natural desire to please. They are considered by many to be the easiest of the spitz breeds to train. They are a medium-sized spitz-style dog with an alert little face and erect, mobile ears. Their double coat has a smooth, harsh outer and comes in wheaten, light red, black and wolf-sable. Early Buhunds worked with Vikings, herding and guarding cattle and sheep and were then buried alongside their owners to accompany them in the afterlife. Now Buhunds can be found in many roles from hearing dog to police dog. The Norwegian Buhund can be a little wilful but is generally a cheerful, intelligent and attentive dog. They make a good watch dog but are just as happy as a family pet. They are people friendly and especially fond of children and not naturally aggressive to other animals. They are a very active dog that needs plenty of regular physical and mental exercise. They need regular brushing and combing and shed heavily at certain times of the year but their coat is easy to keep clean. They are prone to hip dysplasia and eye problems.

Norfolk Terriers are one of the smallest of the working terriers but are sweeter natured than many. They are a short-legged, sturdy little dog with a wiry coat that comes in red, wheaten, tan, black and tan, or grizzle. They are very similar to Norfolk Terriers and until 1964 were considered the same dog called the Norwich Terrier, but today's Norwich has pricked-up ears and is more rounded in shape. They originate in the UK where they were used as ratters and to flush out foxes that had gone to ground. They are a busy, brave, affectionate little dog. They're intelligent and trainable but need to be kept busy. A bored Norwich Terrier might start barking or digging. They are a sociable little dog that enjoys the company of people, children and other dogs but may have difficulty around small mammals. They are active most of the time and enjoy a daily walk and a good game of fetch. The wiry coat needs regular brushing and combing and occasional clipping. They are generally healthy but may be prone to back problems and eye disease.

The Otterhound is said to have a sense of smell that is so good that they can detect the scent of an otter in the morning when the otter passed through the water the night before. They are a large scent hound, rectangular in shape. Their head is rectangular, too, with long-hanging ears and a shaggy face with bushy eyebrows. They have webbed feet and a coarse double coat which is dense and very weather resistant. They come in all typical hound colours - grizzle, sandy, red, wheaten, blue, white with slight lemon, blue or badger pied markings, black and tan, blue and tan, black and cream, occasional liver, tan and liver, tan and white. They were bred to hunt otter when otters were plentiful and endangered the fish supply. Otterhounds are not the most trainable of dogs but are brave, lively, loving, devoted and friendly. They love water and can happily spend hours in it. They are loud with a baying call that can carry for a considerable distance. They are people friendly, good with children and get along with other dogs and even non-canines in the family but may well chase wildlife. They need a lot of exercise and, if possible, opportunities for swimming but they can be single-minded about running off if they get an interesting scent. Their coat tends to attract the nature they like to ramble in and they need brushing and combing regularly but should not be clipped. They can be prone to hip dysplasia, thrombocytopenia, hemophilia and bloat.

A well-trained Parson Russell Terrier is an amazing little dog, capable of learning an impressive range of tricks, which is why they have been a popular choice for film and television. They used to be known as the Jack Russell Terrier in the USA. They are a strong, compact and well proportioned little dog with V-shaped ears that fold forward. Their harsh double coat comes in smooth and wire-haired and is mainly white with coloured markings. Many small terriers are rat-catchers but the Parson Russell Terrier is more of a hunting hound named after the Reverend John Russell. They were used for flushing out small game such as foxes. They are wilful, fearless and extremely intelligent. In the right hands they are cheerful, loving, friendly and can be trained to a very high level. In inexperienced hands, or if allowed to get bored, they may be destructive, aggressive and noisy. They can be trained to get along well with strangers, children and other animals although they have very strong hunting instincts, stronger than most terriers, so may not be trusted around small wildlife. They are an active dog indoors but need a lot of physical and mental exercise. Gardens need to be secure: they are excellent climbers, leapers and diggers. Brushing, combing and occasional stripping keep their coat looking good. They can be prone to dislocation of the kneecaps, eye diseases, deafness and Legg Calve Perthes disease.

The Pharaoh Hound is one of the oldest breeds in the world, possibly going back as far as 4,000 BC. Artwork from ancient Egypt certainly shows a dog very like them. They are tall, slim and athletic looking with a deep chest. Their neck is long and slightly arched and their head a long wedge with large, erect ears and amber eyes. Their short, smooth and glossy coat is a reddish tan with a few white markings and ideally a white tip to the tail. They were used as a scent hound and sight hound for small game as well as a royal companion. They are now the national dog of Malta. The Pharaoh Hound loves to play outside and is a pleasant, loving and peaceful dog indoors as long as they are given enough opportunity for exercise. They do need handling with care though, as they can be sensitive and have a unique tendency to "blush" when excited with their ears and nose becoming bright pink. They are normally child-friendly, ok around other dogs but wary of strangers and like to chase small game. They are relatively inactive indoors but can run very fast and enjoy the opportunity to do so outside. Their short coat is easy to look after. They tend to stay clean and have no doggy smell but they may need to wear a coat against the cold in winter. They are generally very hardy and healthy but they may be sensitive to insecticides and certain medicines.

The Pointer name comes from the way the dog stands absolutely still with their body showing the direction of sitting game as if they are pointing at it. They are an elegant, powerful hunting dog with a deep chest, long neck, hanging ears and deep muzzle with slight dip in it. Their coat is short and smooth, with a sheen, and largely white with patches or speckles of other colours. They were popularly used in England and were developed in the 1600s from crossing a number of other breeds. They work by using their excellent scenting ability to find game and show its location. They can flush out birds but don't normally work in water or cold, neither do they retrieve. They have enormous energy so need a lot of opportunity to run this off. Given enough exercise, they will be calm in the home. They are intelligent, loyal and affectionate. They are naturally child-friendly, although can be wary of strangers, and are generally good with dogs and other pets. They need a lot of outdoor exercise and can cover large areas at great speed. The short coat is easy to maintain and they are normally a clean dog but the ears and feet should be checked regularly. They are prone to hip dysplasia, thyroid problems, skin conditions and dwarfism.

The Pomeranian's lively, affectionate nature make it likeable to many people, even those who are not normally drawn to small dogs. They are like a tiny spitz-type with a little pointed face, tail held up and over the body and a thick double coat. The outer coat is long, slightly harsh and comes in a huge range of colours. The originate from Germany where they were originally a much larger herding dog. It was Queen Victoria who started to breed them down in size to be a companion. The Pomeranian is a proud, lively little dog. It is intelligent, eager to learn, very loyal to its handler and family. The Pom is a wonderful companion and show dog. The breed's docile temper and affectionate nature endear it to many. It is alert, inquisitive and active: one of the most independent of the toy breeds, they needs a firm, gentle hand. They naturally get on well with adults, children and other animals. They tend to be active indoors but enjoy a daily walk outdoors too. They need frequent brushing and combing to keep the coat looking good and will shed continually. They are prone to dislocated patella, slipped stifle, heart problems, eye infections, skin irritations and tooth decay.

The Standard Poodle is possibly the most elegant of all the poodles. Poodles come in a variety of sizes: Standard (the largest), Miniature (smaller) and Toy (smallest) although some countries also recognise a Medium-sized which sits between Standard and Miniature. They all have a generally square look, a long, straight muzzle and hanging ears. They do not shed but their curly coat is normally close cut and comes in a variety of usually solid colours. The coat can be corded but keeping it curly is more popular. The original Standard Poodle was bred in Europe, as a water retrieval dog and the Miniature and Toy poodles have been bred down from that. The smaller types were sometimes used to hunt truffles but they have mainly found favour as performers and companions. The Standard Poodle is normally a good-natured dog. Like all Poodles, they are highly intelligent and trainable. They also tend to be less busy and calmer around the home than the smaller varieties. Of all the Poodles, they tend to be the most naturally friendly towards, people, children and other dogs. All Poodles need plenty of exercise but the Standard type retains the stamina of a working dog so needs more than the smaller varieties. They particularly love any exercise involving water. The Poodle needs their long ears checking and their coat clipping regularly. There are a variety of clips. Sometimes the rear half of the body is shaved, bracelets are left around the ankles, and pom-poms are left on the tails and hips. Although this looks showy, it stems from the time hair was shaved to help the dog to swim when retrieving game but hair was left in specific areas to protect their joints against cold and reeds. Although generally long lived, Standard Poodles are prone to certain diseases: eye problems, skin allergies, hip dysplasia, ear infections, bloat and Von Willebrand's Disease.

The Podengo is the National Breed of Portugal. Podengos actually come in three sizes: small, medium and large, but only the small are recognised by the kennel club in the UK. They are a well proportioned and muscular dog. All sizes of Podengo come in two coat types: smooth and wiry. The smooth coat type is much older, the wiry was created by mixing with other breeds. They usually come in fawn (all shades from light to dark) often with white patches. They can come in yellow but not plain white. All three sizes were bred for hunting, what prey they hunt depends on their size. Generally they hunt in packs and flush out their prey. They then either kill it or wait for the huntsman to catch up and kill it. As Podengos are all hunting dogs, they have a keen sense of sight and smell. They can all be a little wilful but are intelligent and very trainable. The Portuguese Podengo has a tendency to return to their owner when out on walks to check that they are still following. All sizes make loving companion dogs with their owners but the small and medium are naturally more friendly and sociable with strangers, children and other animals. They all need plenty of exercise so regular walks are important, the medium type is probably the fastest. They also like to dig and are good jumpers so fencing would need to be secure. None of the types present any problems with grooming, in fact the breed standard states that they are not trimmed, even for the show ring. For both coat types, an occasional groom with a comb or brush is all that is needed. They are generally very hardy and healthy.