Awww : )

Q: Is This Dog Cute or What?
Originally uploaded by nyominx

Small Dog Breeds

Following on from Friday’s list of large dog breeds, here is a list of popular small dog breeds:

· Bichon Frise

· Boston Terrier

· Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

· Chihuahua

· Chinese Crested Dog

· Dachshund

· French Bulldog

· Fox Terrier

· Havanese

· Italian Greyhound

· Jack Russell Terrier

· Lhasa Apso

· Maltese

· Mexican Hairless

· Papillon

· Pekingese

· Pomeranian

· Poodle (Toy)

· Pug

· Schipperke

· Scottish Terrier

· Shetland Sheepdog

· Shih Tzu

· Welsh Corgi

· West Highland White Terrier

· Whippet

· Wirehaired Pointing Griffon

· Yorkshire Terrier

Poodle Mix Breeds

There has been an explosion in the popularity of Poodle Mixed Breeds, or Hybrid Dogs. A Hybrid Dog is a mix of two pure breeds.

Poodles may be so popular because of their good nature and hypoallergenic properties (they are non-shedding).

Choosing a dog breed is tough, because there are so many of them! Why not choose a Hybrid Dog?

There are many Poodle Mix Dogs. Here at ChoosingADogBreed we have compiled a list of some of our favourites (not necessarily the best dog breeds!):

• St Berdoodle (St Bernard / Standard Poodle)
• Giant Schnoodle (Giant Schnauzer / Standard Poodle)
• Bossi-Poo (Boston Terrier / Poodle)
• Pootalian (Italian Greyhound / Poodle)
• Westiepoo, pictured above (West Highland Terrier / Poodle)
• Whoodle (Soft Coated Wheaton Terrier / Poodle)
• Weimardoodle (Weimaraner / Poodle)
• Sheepadoodle (Old English Sheepdog / Standard Poodle)
• Shih-Poo (Shih-Tzu / Poodle)
• Pekapoo (Pekingese / Poodle)
• Labradoodle (Labrador / Poodle)

Poodle Hybrid Dogs can make excellent pets. Poodles are wonderful pure breeds and when bred with another friendly breed, the possibilities seem endless!

Large Dog Breeds

If you are at the start of the choosing a dog breed process, you might just be as far as choosing the size of dog you would like. This is often a starting point. Here is a list of popular large dog breeds to give you an idea of how many different dogs breeds there are:

· Afghan

· Akita Dog

· Alaskan Malamute

· Bernese Mountain Dog

· Bloodhound

· Boxer

· Bullmastiff

· Collie

· Dalmation

· Doberman Pinscher

· English Pointer

· English Setter

· German Shepard

· Giant Schnauzer

· Golden Retriever

· Great Dane

· Greater Swiss Mountain Dog

· Greyhound

· Irish Setter

· Irish Wolfhound

· Labrador Retriever

· Mastiff

· Neapolitan Mastiff

· Old English Sheepdog

· Otterhound

· Rottweiler

· Saint Bernard

· Weimeranner

· Wolfdog

Siberian Huskies

Siberian Huskies are instantly recognisable pulling a sled across a vast expanse of snow. They come from the snowy regions of Siberia; bred as working sled dogs.

There are other sled dogs breeds recognised by the Kennel Club; the Alaskan Malamute, the Eskimo dog, and the Samoyed.

As working dogs living in low temperatures where food was not always in abundance, Siberian Huskies lived in packs, with humans. They were bred to carry heavy loads quickly, get on well with people, including children and be quite self sufficient so as not to eat all their owners’ food.

The characteristic of Siberian Huskies has not changed much from this outdoor, pack led lifestyle. Therefore Siberian Huskies are popular as pets.

There are many good points about Siberian Huskies as pets:

• Very friendly nature (with people and other dogs)
• Sociable
• Non aggressive (but will rise to the challenge of another dog!)
• Hypoallergenic dog for some people who are allergic to dogs
• Smaller appetite and not fussy eaters

Whenever you are choosing a dog breed, it is important to understand the challenges of a particular breed. However they will only present as really difficult challenges if the dog breed is not totally suitable to your lifestyle. The Siberian Husky is no exception. Some points to consider if you are thinking of choosing a Siberian Husky:

• They will not guard your property, or be too upset if they have a new owner
• They have an independent streak that makes them near impossible to train for obedience training or work
• Needs company of people or other dogs
• Can be destructive if left alone too long (see previous point)
• Require a large well enclosed outdoor space

Siberian Huskies are wonderful, lively, friendly dogs. They make fantastic pets for a unit with other dogs in an environment where they can run around outside. If that sounds like a lifestyle that would fit in with yours, maybe a Siberian Husky is the best dog breed for you!

New Guinea Singing Dog

For dog lovers who are interested in the history of dogs as pets and domesticated animals, New Guinea Singing Dogs are fascinating.

New Guinea Singing Dogs lived without contact with other dogs for thousands of years. They naturally inhabited the tropical lowland of New Guinea, living with the natives of the island. They also lived wildly in the cooler climes in the mountainous north of the island.

Thought to be largely extinct, in the 1950s a pair were found in New Guinea. They were taken to Toroga Zoo in Sydney, Australia. Since then they have been bred and some domesticated.

The New Guinea Singing Dog is related to Asian Wolves who were domesticated between 10000 and 15000 years ago. They are similar in appearance to the Dingo.

If you are choosing a dog breed, you might wonder what New Guinea Singing Dogs are like as pets.

New Guinea Singing Dogs are a rare dog breed. Although domesticated, they have many wild tendencies and are not great pets for most families. They can be tamed enough to have regular handling by humans but not enough that they could live inside your home.

The New Guinea Singing Dog Conservation Society was set up to protect New Guinea Singing Dogs. They are still vulnerable to becoming extinct.

Do New Guinea Singing Dogs sing?

They have a distinctive voice, similar to a wolf’s howl with elements of whale song. They use yelps, whines and single notes as well as barking. It is a complex use of voice for a dog. It only adds to their intrigue!

Miniature Schauzers at Crufts 2008

The Crufts 2008 bonanza goes on!

A Giant Schnauzer may have won Crufts 2008 Best in Show, but this video shows that the Miniature Schnauzer is no less of a dog...

Crufts 2008 in Pictures

Crufts is the largest Dog Show in the world. From the 6^th to 8^th March 2008, Crufts attracted 160,000 dog enthusiasts to the NEC in Birmingham.

Here are some of the highlights…

Choosing a Dog Breed

Crufts Best in Show 2008- Giant Schnauzer

Best in Show at Crufts 2008 was taken by The Giant Schnauzer CH Jafrak Phillipe Olivier owned by Mr and Mrs K Cullen. This Giant Schnauzer is a seasoned dog pro having won Crufts three times!

What better than to post a blog about the Giant Schnauzer breed? They’re popularity is sure to soar following Phillipe’s win.

The Giant Schnauzer hails from Germany. In the 19^th century, a Great Dane was crossed with a Standard Schnauzer to create a rough haired, large, herding cattle dog. The Giant Schnauzer was born!

This breed has devoted fans. His good nature, loyalty and devotion to guarding his owners is what people love about the Giant Schnauzer.

Standing up to 70 cm tall, this muscular dog breed needs plenty of exercise. These are quick, intelligent dogs. This was utilized in World War I and World War II when they put to work contributing to the war effort.

The Giant Schnauzer will not be the best dog breed for everyone. They are lively, active and need a lot of space. If this sounds like your home, maybe you could choose a Giant Schnauzer!

Pictures of Crufts coming soon...

Bernese Mountain Dog

Bernese Mountain Dogs originally hail from the canton (region) in Berne, Switzerland.

They are handsome, striking looking dogs. Standing tall at up to 70cm and displaying a thick black white and brown coat, they make an impressive site.

The Bernese Mountain Dog is a gentle giant. They are renowned for their affectionate, gently and loyal temperaments. They get on well with people and often get on well with other pets, including cats! Bernese Mountain Dogs make great family pets.

Given their size, these dogs need a decent amount of space to live in and a fair amount of exercise. However they don’t want to run up and down mountains all day! Despite their size (or perhaps because of it), Bernese Mountain Dogs don’t have great stamina so shorter bursts of exercise may be better.

Sadly Bernese Mountain Dogs have a lower life expectancy than many pure breeds at around 8 years (compared to around 10 to 11 years). There is a higher rate of cancer, and other illnesses amongst this breed. But don’t let that put you off choosing a Bernese Mountain Dog, they make truly rewarding pets!

Ugly Dogs?

This instantly recognisable pooch is Chinese Crested Hairless, Sam, the once official ‘Ugliest Dog in the World’ and unofficial ‘Ugliest Dog Ever’!

Sadly this role model for dogs across the world died in 2006. Through his celebrity status Sam made better the lives of many rescue dogs. He made people realise that a picture perfect manicured pooch is no better than one who has a few wonky features and the odd battle scar. Numbers of dogs who previously had difficulty finding a home were given a second chance in life.

The title Ugliest Dog might sound a little cruel. And of course Sam is not ugly at all, no dog is ugly! Sam, like all dogs deep down, was fun loving, affectionate and kind.

Sam is a great lesson to us all. A legendary dog showing us that looks don’t matter. With dogs, as with people, it’s what’s on the inside that we really loveJ

Siberian Huskies...

Siberian Huskies are popular dog breeds as pets. If you are choosing a dog breed and have a Husky in mind, keep an eye on this blog, a Husky post is coming soon! In the meantime here are some great pictures of Siberian Huskies. In their natural habitats they are truly spectacular...

Hypoallergenic Dog Breeds

Hypoallergenic Dogs are hailed as being the answers to the prayers of the dog allergy sufferer. It is very sad to think that some people don’t enjoy the company of dogs because they are allergic to them.

There are dog breeds that are called hypoallergenic because they tend not to aggravate an allergic reaction. This is because they shed little or no hair, or have no hair at all (less common).

As an addition to the earlier post of dog breeds for allergy sufferers, this post contains a list of dogs that may be suitable for allergy sufferers. All the dogs on the list have different personalities and requirements, this is only the start of choosing a dog breed.

No dog can be guaranteed to be hypoallergenic, it is vital to spend time with the actual dog before taking it home to make sure it is suitable for you.

Hypoallergenic Dogs:

• Afghan Hound
• Basenji
• Bedlington Terrier
• Bichon (all types)
• Bichon Frisé
• Bolognese (dog)
• Cairn terrier
• Coton de Tulear
• German Shorthaired Pointer
• Greyhound
• Havanese
• Irish Water Spaniel
• Italian Greyhound
• Kerry Blue Terrier
• Lowchen
• Lhasa Apso
• Maltese
• Poodles (all sizes)
• Poodle hybrids
• Portuguese Water Dog
• Schnauzer (all sizes)
• Shih Tzu
• Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier
• Yorkshire Terrier
• Whippet
• Native American Indian Dog
• Border Terrier
• American Hairless Terrier
• Chinese Crested (hairless)
• Mexican Hairless Dog (Xoloitzcuintli)
• Peruvian Hairless Dog

Dog Shows

Lots of people choose a dog breed because they want to enter into Dog Shows. Many more still love watching them. Here are some great photos from Dog Shows...

It’s a Dog’s Life

Are these two as good pals as Rory and Millie?

Is a dog’s life better than a horse’s life? Young Rory might think so.

Rejected by his mother at birth, Rory the foal went to live at the Essex Horse and Pony Sanctuary. He was very ill when he arrived but was nursed back to health by the staff and found playmates in the sanctuary’s dogs.

Spending his first few months of life with dogs it is not surprising Rory the horse thought he was a pooch not a pony! He developed a fondness for playing fetch and especially bonded with the sanctuary’s Chocolate Labrador, Millie.

After three months at the sanctuary, Rory had grown from being smaller than the dogs to being twice their size. He was welcomed into the fold but it was important that he learned how to be a horse.

Rory was assigned an equestrian mentor; an older horse living at the sanctuary. We hope he’s taken to his new horsey life well!

Can I choose a dog that’s really a horse? Probably not, but there are plenty of dog breeds to choose from.

Dog Day Afternoon

Sundays are all about lazing around. Take a leaf out these dogs' books. Check out the canine chilling…

Choosing A Dog Breed

Adopting an Adult Dog

There is a lot written in this blog about life with a new puppy. You may well be choosing a dog breed yet may be thinking about adopting an older dog.

Thousands of dogs worldwide are abandoned or need rehoming for some reason so if you’d prefer to give an old dog a new home- that’s great! And it needn’t mean giving up on the idea of a specific dog breed. There are charities who rehome specific breeds.

Here are some advantages of choosing a dog that not a puppy any more:

• Older dogs are usually fully house trained
• They can often answer basic commands
• If a dog’s history is known you can find out before you take it home whether he will be good with children and other pets
• Most rehoming charities will neuter and vaccinate the dogs
• You can feel happy knowing you gave your dog a second chance in life

That’s all great but it wouldn’t be fair not to highlight some considerations to make if you are choosing a dog who is a little older. Here are some things to think about:

• An older dog might be set in it’s way and need a little more time and patience to adapt to your lifestyle
• As with choosing a dog breed, be clear what you can offer a dog in your home/ Don’t get a dog who loves running around and long walks if your mobility isn’t so good
• Any dogs you already have in your home may find it a challenge adjusting to a new, adult face around the place
• Get advice from rehoming charities, they are the experts!

Rehoming an older dog is a wonderful thing to do. There are so many success stories and the second list here about considerations to make doesn’t mean you’ll encounter all those issues.

Choosing an older dog is a wonderful gift, you’ll be rewarded with a loving and loyal pet!

Pet Insurance

For many reasons you may be thinking about getting pet insurance for your pooch. It is understandable; we don’t think twice about protecting our homes and possessions so it is easy to see that safeguarding our beloved family dogs makes a lot of sense.

Pet insurance comes in all shapes and sizes, some good and some bad. Research is essential! It is impossible to give a brief and accurate summary of what’s available because there is a lot of choice. There are good prices, a low end figure would be £70 for a one year policy. Always check the small print and understand what your dog is covered for.

Prices generally don’t differ depending on breed or cross breed. There may be variation in policies covering occupational dogs like show dogs and breeding stick so of course make sure you are covered in all the necessary places!

This is not an attempt at a comprehensive insight to dog insurance. Rather it is to advise on the benefit of research. If something did happen to your dog it is reassuring to know you could give your dog the best chance of a successful recovery.

If you are choosing a dog, think carefully about what dog insurance would be best for you!

Puppy Statue

This is a statues for dog lovers everywhere! ‘Puppy’ was made by artist Jeff Koons in 1992. Now sitting outside the Guggenheim museum in Bilbao, Spain this wonderful statue has real flowers growing on it. Well worth a visit!

Do you want advice on choosing a dog a dog breed?

Earthquake Dog Rescue

Last night’s earthquake in Britain caused much excitement and thankfully no serious damage. Earthquakes around the world have caused devastation and dogs are put in danger too. Here are some pictures of dog rescue after the earthquake in Peru in 2007…

English Mastiff

English Mastiffs are big dogs! You may have seen yesterday’s post about Hercules, the World’s Biggest Dog, he is an English Mastiff.

These magnificent dogs are gentle giants; calm and affectionate with their owners. But predators beware, English Mastiffs are instinctively protective and will stand between their master and danger. This dog breed has been names in the top ten guard dog breeds!

Because of their size, English Mastiffs need a good amount of room for exercise and a carefully managed diet. English Mastiffs seem to have higher obesity rates than other breeds.

This breed makes an excellent family dog and they are good with children. Is the English Mastiff for you if you are choosing a dog breed?

World’s Biggest Dog

World’s Biggest Dog... (for the real one, read this post)

This is Hercules, what a lot of dog! This lovely English Mastiff weighs almost 300lb and has been named the World’s Biggest Dog by the Guiness Book of World Records.

Choosing a dog of this breed, the English Mastiff, doesn’t mean you’ll have a dog this size but they are large dogs at their average size.

There will be more information on the English Mastiff soon!

Poodles (Standard, Miniature, Toy)

Are you choosing a dog breed? You’ve probably heard of Poodles but might not know too much about them.

Poodles take their name form the German word Pudelhund, which translates as ‘splashing dog’. This may sound strange but it explains the tradition of the show appearance of Poodles when their fur is trimmed all over except for the major joints.

Poodles were originally working dogs from the Gun Dog group. Their fur was trimmed in this way so that when Poodles were in water there was less resistance to water as normally their fur is very thick. Fur was left on the joints to provide the dogs with protection from the cold.

This style has continued to be popular for showing Poodles. Trimming dogs in this way is called clipping. Nowadays unless the Poodle is a working dog, it is done purely for show.

The French are cited as developing the breed though it has been suggested they have origins in Russia and Iberia.

Poodles come in three sizes; Toy, Miniature and Standard. There’s a Poodle size for all dog lovers!

Poodles are active, energetic dogs. Their working background shows through as they like to ‘hunt’, even miniature ones. They are good family dogs, especially standard size Poodles.

Lap Dogs

Lap Dogs are always popular! They make great companions for older people and people who spend a lot of time in their house. These dogs love to go out too but most of all they love company. If you want a gorgeous little dog to pamper you could choose a dog breed from this list (it isn’t a comprehensive list but is a good starting point):

• American Hairless Terrier
• Basset Hound
• Beagle
• Bichon Frise
• Bichon/Yorkie
• Boston Terrier
• Bulldog
• Cairn Terrier
• Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
• Chihuahua
• Chinese Crested (hairless)
• English Toy Spaniel
• German Spitz
• Italian Greyhound
• Jack Russell Terrier
• Maltese
• Miniature Fox Terrier
• Miniature Pinscher
• Miniature Poodle
• Miniature Schnauzer
• Norfolk Terrier
• Norwich Terrier
• Pekingese
• Pocket Beagle
• Pomeranian
• Pug
• Queen Elizabeth Pocket Beagle
• Rat Terrier
• Shih-Tzu
• Silky Terrier
• Standard Schnauzer
• Toy Poodle
• West Highland White Terrier
• Whippet
• Yorkshire Terrier

It’s very important to research your chosen dog breed to make sure it will fit in with your lifestyle. All these dogs may be lap dogs but they are all very different too. You will find information on specific small dog breeds throughout this blog and I’ll keep you posted about more!

Choosing A Dog Breed

Every once in a while we are going to give you all a link to our Dog Breeds Website over at www.RightDogBreed4me.com - a great guide which shows you how to choose a dog breed.



That doesn't mean however that we are going to be biased and not show you any other Dog Breed products you might be interested in.

SitStayFetch is a world famous Dog Training website - with a reputation second to none.

Another great site is this
Dog Food Recipes book. I think we wouldn't be doing the book justice if it was just known as being about Dog Food recipes though - its about how commerical dog food poisons dogs all over the world every day, and what alternatives there are.

Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

Cavalier King Charles Spaniels were the favoured pup of King Charles II. He decreed that these dogs be allowed access to all buildings. This is why they can often be seen in paintings from this era, they were a popular dog.

They still are popular today! They are amongst the top ten most popular dog breed and it’s easy to see why.

Sometimes called the ultimate lap dog, Cavalier King Charles Spaniels fall into the toy dog group though they are they largest of these. They certainly love sitting on laps and company in general. They are very sociable dogs and should not be left on their own for periods of time.

Cavalier King Charles Spaniels get on with other dogs, large and small. They are great with children. Their temperament is very friendly, eager to please and loving. What a great dog!

Are you thinking of choosing a dog breed? Why not choose a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel?

Most Popular Dog Names

This is a top ten most pup-ular dogs' names list...

1. Max
2. Bailey
3. Buddy
4. Molly
5. Maggie
6. Lucy
7. Daisy
8. Bella
9. Jake
10. Rocky

Where do these lists come from? Are they accurate? This one is according to the US Health Department in the 1990s and refers to dogs in New York only.

The list could still gove you ideas on choosing a dog name, if not choosing a dog breed!

Choosing a Dog Breed

These sleepy dogs may you in choosing a dog breed but they'll certainly help you choose a dog as a pet...

Guide Dogs

Guide Dogs act as the eyes of a visually impaired person. They do a wonderful job assisting their owners in daily life and are great companions too. A guide dog will work for around seven years with one owner. When they retire they may stay on as a pet with their owner but often go to new homes as their owner takes on a new guide dog.

Guide Dogs are bred from specific stock. Their parents are selected for their good nature, obedience and steady nerves. This hopefully produces likewise offspring, though of course this is not always the case.

Guide Dogs are trained to walk in front of their owner and avoid obstacles, know the size of their owner and how to make sure they avoid obstacles, stop ant kerbs and corners, go left and right and know what to do in traffic. Amazing!

The training guide dogs go through before starting their career is rigorous. Dogs can be declared unsuitable at any time in training, and many are. If this is the case the dogs go to good homes. Even if they aren’t quite Guide Dog standard, these dogs are house trained and make excellent family dogs.

Owners and Guide Dogs are carefully selected before they are matched. The pair spend around four weeks at training school. In the UK the owner hands over a traditional token of fifty pence for their guide dog.

They sound like great pets. If you want to choose a dog breed that has some of the traits of a Guide Dog then choose a breed that is used as a Guide Dog. These include Labradors, Retrievers and German Shepherds.

Even though Guide Dogs are working dogs, they enjoy it. Spending all day with their owner and going to places off limits to most dogs is not a bad life for a dog! When a Guide Dog is working, this is when they are wearing their harness and is being held by their owner, they should not be petted or distracted in any way so they can concentrate on guiding.

German Shepherd Dogs - Choosing A Dog Breed

German Shepherd Dogs (also known as Alsatians) are amongst the top ten most popular dog breeds in the UK.

They are lovely dogs; strong, affectionate and reliable. As well as making great family pets and guard dogs, German Shepherd Dogs work as guide dogs, police dogs, search and rescue dogs, security guard dogs and even in the military.

This is a protective, intelligent and fearless breed. As a puppy it is important to socialise your German Shepherd well. Ideally a German Shepherd will be calm and affectionate and non-confrontational in their home and alert outside, whilst being comfortable with strangers.

This is not an impossible feat with a German Shepherd Dog. They are responsive to training and are obedient.

As with all larger dogs they need plenty of exercise and outdoor space. If you are choosing a dog, a German Shepherd Dog will be a great choice if you’re looking for a larger dog.

Chicken Liver Biscuits Recipe

These chicken liver biscuits may not sound so appealing to you and me but your dog will love them! Choose a dog food that is good for your dog and a real treat too. This is a tasty and healthy snack and is easy to make…

Chicken Liver Biscuits Ingredients:

• 2 cups flour
• 1 cup polenta
• 3 table spoons vegetable oil
• 1 free range or organic egg, lightly beaten
• 1/2 cup chicken stock
• 2 tsp. chopped fresh parsley
• 1 cup cooked chicken liver, chopped

Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 400F/200C

2. Sift together the flour and polenta

3. In a separate bowl mix together the beaten egg and vegetable oil. Add to this the chicken stock and chopped parsley, mix well

4. Slowly add the dry ingredients, mixing well as you go

5. Fold in the chopped chicken livers. Knead this mixture a little until you have a firm dough

6. Roll dough out on to a floured surface and roll out to about half an inch thickness

7. Cut out biscuits to the size suitable for your dog

8. Place biscuits onto a greased or lined baking tray and bake for 15 minutes or until firm. (the smaller you biscuits, the quicker they will cook and so on)

9. Leave to cool in a place your dog cannot reach them, or they will be scoffed!

Because these biscuits contain cooked meat, they should be stored in the refrigerator.

Jack Russells

Jack Russells are the creation of minister and dog breeder John ‘Jack’ Russell in the 1800s. The story goes that while he was living in Oxford, Minister Russell bred his Jack Russells from a terrier called Trump he had bought from his milkman!

Jack Russells remain a popular dog today. They are lively, feisty, protective. So if you love to take long walks and lavishing attention on your dog, a Jack Russell might be for you if you are choosing a dog breed.

They were bred for flushing out foxes and later other animals in hunts. This is why Jack Russells are not intimidated by bigger dogs, it’s the nature of their breed!

Don’t be misled by their size, Jack Russells are high energy dogs who, if not entertained or tired out from a great walk, will create their own entertainment. This could include shredding your newspaper or homework and digging up your lawn.

It is perhaps because of this type of misconception that many Jack Russells find themselves in rescue homes after their owners were not able to meet their needs.

If you thrive on a lively, spirited dog who loves to be the centre of attention, a Jack Russell could be the best dog breed for you.

Happy Valentines Day!

Choosing A Dog Breed

Cute Irish Setter Puppies...

Cute Irish Setter Puppies...

Dog Personality Types

It is well known that dog breeds have their own unique characteristics. It is likely that dogs of the same breed will have similar aspects to their nature. Retrievers can generally be relied upon to be friendly, sociable dogs. Jack Russells will certainly have lively moments.

Dog breed characteristics are helpful when choosing a dog breed. However they do not tell us what a puppy will be like when it grows up.

All dogs have a personality that is unique to them. Even though all Jack Russells have similarities, they will also have their own unique personalities.

Ask anyone who has had more than one of a breed of dog and they’ll probably tell you that the dogs had very different personalities.

There are several theories on the personality types of dogs. It has been suggested that dogs share all human personality dimensions except for conscientiousness. Puppy personalities have been broken down into six personality types:

• Responsive
• High Energy
• Strong-willed
• Shy and Insecure
• Calm and Easy Going
• Aggressive

Whatever personality type your puppy displays, extreme behaviours can be moderated through effective training.

It is not possible to fully know the personality type of your dog until it has grown up a little. Or, if you are getting an older dog, you may already have some insight on this from its previous owner or the rescue home.

It is essential to consider the characteristics of your dog’s breed when choosing a dog breed. Just remember, dogs are not all cast from the same mould and are all very different, even when they look very similar!