Dogs as Pets

Your Best Friend! - List of Dog Breeds

Home > Pet Guide > Dogs

Dogs
Dogs       Cats      Birds       Aquatics       Herpetoculture        Small Animals

The ancient partnership between dogs and man has changed over the centuries, but the bond remains as strong as ever. Today's dogs seldom ply their ancient trades, but they have amassed an impressive new repertoire of skills. The most common career for dogs these days is "pet," but these remarkable animals also demonstrate an array of skills ranging from finding lost children to ferreting out contraband, tracking criminals, helping physically and mentally impaired people, joining owners in a variety of sports and games, and guarding livestock from endangered predators. Below is a complete list of pet dog breeds featured here by Discover Animals.


Dog Breeds (purpose-bred dogs)

Affenpinscher
Confident, Famously Funny, Fearless The Affenpinscher ("monkey-like terrier”) hails from Central Europe, serving for centuries as loyal companion and fearless…
Learn more >>
Afghan Hound
Active, Regular Grooming The Afghan Hound originated in Afghanistan, and is known for its silky coat, powerful stride, and regal aloofness. Each personality…
Learn more >>
Airedale Terrier
Active, Intelligent Known as the “King of Terriers,” the Airedale Terrier is the largest Terrier (males are up to 23” inches), and also…
Learn more >>
Akita
Courageous, Dignified, Profoundly Loyal A versatile hunting and guarding dog, the Akita (“Silent Hunter” in Japan), is known for being a quiet, loyal, and intelligent…
Learn more >>
Alaskan Husky
Dogs became breeds because their behavior, size, shape, speed, and other traits made them ideal for a particular kind of…
Learn more >>
Alaskan Malamute
Affectionate, Loyal, Playful The Alaskan Malamute, named after the Malamute Inuit tribe Malamutes, were bred to be powerful sled dogs. They are related…
Learn more >>
American English Coonhound
Sweet, Mellow, Sociable The American English Coonhound (AEC) comes from Virginia Hounds, who were bred to handle rough terrain. An agile, speedy…
Learn more >>
American Eskimo Dog
Playful, Perky, Smart The American Eskimo Dog is a descendent of the European Spitzes and its name has nothing to do with Eskimo culture. An agile…
Learn more >>
American Foxhound
Bred by George Washington himself (from French Hounds and French Foxhounds), you can’t get any more “American” than…
Learn more >>
American Hairless Terrier
The American Hairless Terrier is a variation of the Rat Terrier, who, as his name suggest, is hairless. He is intelligent…
Learn more >>
American Leopard Hound
A sturdy and agile all-purpose tree dog who excel with larger game, the American Leopard Hound is a medium to large-sized…
Learn more >>
American Water Spaniel
Excelling as both a water retrieving and family dog, the American Water Spaniel is a medium-sized dog (up to 18” and 45lbs),…
Learn more >>
Anatolian Shepherd Dog
The Anatolian Shepherd Dog is an ancient breed (over 6,000 years!) who was bred to blend in with the livestock he is charged…
Learn more >>
Australian Cattle Dog
The Australian Cattle Dog (ACD) is one of the smartest and hardest working canines in all of dogdom. Bred for herding cattle,…
Learn more >>
Australian Shepherd
Hard working, intelligent dogs with strong family ties, the Australian Shepherd loves to get his job done. Australian Shepherds…
Learn more >>
Australian Terrier
Australian Terriers are affectionate toward their people, but alert watchdogs and a nightmare for vermin. Small (up to 11”…
Learn more >>
Azawakh
A sighthound blessed with height (up to 29”), grace, and endurance, the Azawakh made his appearance in the United States…
Learn more >>
Barbet
The Barbet is a water dog with roots that can be traced to 14th century France. They are hunters, love being close to their…
Learn more >>
Basenji
An ancient breed, the Basenji was a gift to the Pharaohs in ancient Egypt. He is a powerful hound in a small package (up…
Learn more >>
Basset Hound
The Basset Hound has a secure spot in the history books: a gift to George Washington, a pet to European nobility, and a top…
Learn more >>
Beagle
Beagles are small hounds (less than 15”) who were recognized by the AKC in 1885, and have been working side-by-side with…
Learn more >>
Bearded Collie
Herding group, long hair, family friendly The Bearded Collie is thought to have his origins with the Komondor, a dog that settled in Hungary in the 12th century. As…
Learn more >>
Beauceron
Herding Group, short hair, guard dog, active Hailing from Northern France, the Beauceron is a short-haired sheep and cattle herding dog. They are intelligent and versatile…
Learn more >>
Bedlington Terrier
Terrier, Family Dog, Grooming Needs The Bedlington Terrier may look like a little lamb (only 16’5” tall and 23lbs) but he is also an athletic and enthusiastic…
Learn more >>
Belgian Laekenois
A guardian of livestock (and linen!) and a messenger during both World Wars, the Belgian Laekenois always serves with distinction.…
Learn more >>
Belgian Malinois
Herding, Guardian, active It is not uncommon for an American to mistake the Belgian Malinois for a “light-boned German Shepherd,” but they are…
Learn more >>
Belgian Sheepdog
The Belgian Sheepdog is an average sized (26” tall) dog, and an extremely versatile worker, excelling as herding dogs,…
Learn more >>
Belgian Tervuren
American Belgian Tervuren Club An average-sized (26” tall) dog with a distinctive thick coat, the Belgian Tervuren is an all-purpose herding and guard…
Learn more >>
Bergamasco
Italian via Ira, the Bergamasco is an average sized (up to 23.5” tall), athletic sheepdog. They are highly social and intelligent,…
Learn more >>
Berger Picard
As with many breeds, the Berger Picard almost went extinct after WWII. They are an athletic, average sized (up to 23.5”…
Learn more >>
Bernese Mountain Dog
The Bernese Mountain Dog, named for the Canton of Bern, began as a working companion for farmers, and is now growing in popularity…
Learn more >>
Bichon Frise
Lapdog, Hypoallergenic A descendent of the Water Spaniel, the Bichon Frise is a small (up to 11.5” tall) but sturdy dog known for his happy and…
Learn more >>
Biewer Terrier
The Biewer Terrier (pronounced like "beaver") is a new breed, related to the Yorkshire Terrier, that is growing in popularity.…
Learn more >>
Black and Tan Coonhound
Hound, Family Dog The Black and Tan Coonhound is an older American breed of dog, descended from a crossing of Bloodhound and Black and Tan…
Learn more >>
Black Russian Terrier
Guardian, Working Dog, Intelligent With his course, black double coat, powerful stride, and watchful eye, the Black Russian Terrier is a distinctively Russian…
Learn more >>
Bloodhound
Hound, Working Dog The Bloodhound is an iconic scent hound: big and tall (up to 27” and 150lbs) with loose folds of skin, he is one of the…
Learn more >>
Bluetick Coonhound
Hound, Working Dog, Wash-and-Wear The Bluetick Coonhound is a strong, wiry athlete (27” tall, up to 80 lbs), skilled at hunting and treeing raccoons and…
Learn more >>
Border Collie
Developed in the border country between Scotland and England, Border Collies were invaluable assistants to the shepherds…
Learn more >>
Border Terrier
The Border Terrier is a lively and determined hunter that will happily maneuver the trickiest of thickets and widest of meadows…
Learn more >>
Borzoi
The Borzoi is a large, longhaired sighthound that was known as the Russian Wolfhound in America until 1936. They were developed…
Learn more >>
Boston Terriers
The “All American” Boston Terrier is widely known for its merry, captivating personality and intelligence and is one…
Learn more >>
Bouvier des Flandres
The Bouvier des Flandres comes from Belgium and is the product of centuries of breeding for purpose but not necessarily form…
Learn more >>
Boxer
With their dashing good looks and intrepid, cheerful attitude, Boxers have become one of America’s favorite breeds, placing…
Learn more >>
Boykin Spaniel
The Boykin Spaniel is a native of North America and the State Dog of South Carolina, where the breed originated. They are…
Learn more >>
Briard
Valued for its skills as both guardian and stock dog, the Briard has been a beloved native breed of France since the Middle…
Learn more >>
Brittany
The Brittany is a medium-sized, versatile hunting breed with a cheerful attitude that originated in the French Province of…
Learn more >>
Brussels Griffon
The spirited little Brussels Griffons, sporting their distinctive beards and expressive, almost human eyes, make an engaging…
Learn more >>
Bull Terrier
The clownishly captivating Bull Terrier has become somewhat of a media icon because of their widespread appearance as brand…
Learn more >>
Bulldog
Today’s Bulldogs, widely adored l for their endearing wrinkles and thoughtful, gentle natures are one of America’s most…
Learn more >>
Bullmastiff
The Bullmastiff is a powerful breed of impressive intelligence and trainability that was developed in England around 1860…
Learn more >>
Canaan Dog
The Canaan Dog is the national breed of Israel and dates back to Biblical times. They were the guardians and herding dogs…
Learn more >>
Cane Corso
Known for their majestic looks and courageous spirit, this ancient Italian breed was little known outside its native country…
Learn more >>
Cardigan Welsh Corgi
The Cardigan Welsh Corgi is the older of the two Corgi breeds and while similar in many respects, the Cardigan has a tail,…
Learn more >>
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel has been a sweet natured warmer of laps and hearts for centuries. Named for King Charles…
Learn more >>
Cesky Terriers
The Cesky Terrier is a native of Czechoslovakia and was developed by Mr. Frantisik Horak through crossings of Scottish Terriers…
Learn more >>
Chesapeake Bay Retriever
The powerful, driven Chesapeake Bay Retriever is a truly American breed, developed along the Chesapeake Bay, and honored…
Learn more >>
Chihuahua
Chihuahuas are tiny friends with huge hearts and delightful, often feisty personalities. They are quick on their feet and…
Learn more >>
Chinese Crested
This dainty, affectionate Chinese Crested is an old breed believed to have once been kept aboard Chinese sailing vessels…
Learn more >>
Chinese Shar-Pei
The Chinese Shar-Pei, like the Chow, is an ancient, multi-purpose breed that has served as vermin-catcher, hunter, tracker,…
Learn more >>
Chinook
One of America’s few native breeds, the Chinook, which means “warm winter winds” in Inuit, was once listed in the Guinness…
Learn more >>
Chow
The unique and noble Chow, a native of northern China, is thought to be the original ancestor of other Arctic breeds that…
Learn more >>
Clumber Spaniel
The Clumber Spaniel has a deliberate and slow-paced hunting style that contrasts with the animated, high speed approach of…
Learn more >>
Cocker Spaniel
The Cocker Spaniel is the smallest of the spaniels and Sporting Group but still a capable, driven gun dog able to cover a…
Learn more >>
Collie
The Collie exists in the minds of many as the epitome of canine character and devotion, largely thanks to the Hollywood phenomenon…
Learn more >>
Coton de Tulear
The Coton de Tulear is a bold, adventurous spirit in a compact, pretty package. They are loved for both their beauty and…
Learn more >>
Curly Coated Retriever
The Curly Coated Retrieving is eye-catching, with its dark coat of tight, water-resistant curls, but it is also a robust,…
Learn more >>
Dachshund
The affable “weiner-dog” was developed in the 1600’s in Germany to be a fierce hunter with the appropriate physical…
Learn more >>
Dalmatian
Dignified, Smart, Outgoing Notable not just for their spots, the Dalmation is a breed in possession of impressive intelligence, endurance, and speed.…
Learn more >>
Dandie Dinmont Terrier
The Dandie Dinmont Terrier originated as a hunter, designed to “go to the ground” for otters, badgers, and other small…
Learn more >>
Doberman Pinscher
The Doberman Pinscher is an iconic guardian and an embodiment of strength, elegance, courage, and speed. They exude an air…
Learn more >>
Dogo Argentino
The Dogo Argentino is large and athletic, yet elegant and balanced, and has an instantly recognizeable head and short, white…
Learn more >>
Dogue de Bordeaux
This French breed offers a generous helping of looks and character, from their massive head and body and their abundant,…
Learn more >>
English Cocker Spaniel
The English Cocker Spaniel possesses an almost superfluous amount of verve and vitality, practically vibrating with enthusiasm,…
Learn more >>
English Foxhound
The English Foxhound is a sturdy and versatile hound that can be trained to hunt nearly any game they can give chase to.…
Learn more >>
English Setter
The English Setter is known for its flashy elegance and beautiful dappled coat. Energetic and intelligent, they are popular…
Learn more >>
English Springer Spaniel
Possessing the exuberance and work ethic typical of spaniels, the English Springer Spaniel remains a popular companion for…
Learn more >>
English Toy Spaniel
It is generally agreed that this charming and lovable character has his roots in the Far East and eventually made its way…
Learn more >>
Entlebucher Mountain Dog
This native of Switzerland is the smallest of the four tri-color Swiss Mountain Dogs. His larger cousins are the Appenzeller…
Learn more >>
Field Spaniel
The Field Spaniel is a versatile and hard-working hunter of field and stream and also one of the rarest spaniel breeds. They…
Learn more >>
Finnish Lapphund
The Finnish Lapphund was developed north of the Arctic Circle by the semi-nomadic Sami people of Lapland. The breed’s profuse…
Learn more >>
Finnish Spitz
This northern breed, with its foxy features and astuteness, is also known for its agility, aptitude for hard work, and skills…
Learn more >>
Flat-Coated Retriever
This streamlined retriever has panache to spare, be it flushing and retrieving waterfowl, adventuring with his people, or…
Learn more >>
French Bulldog
The lively and lovable French Bulldog has been a delightful companion since the 1800s, when they were developed by English…
Learn more >>
German Pinscher
The German Pinscher is a medium-sized, lithe, and vivacious breed that originated in Germany as an efficient eradicator of…
Learn more >>
German Shepherd Dog
The German Shepherd Dog is scores high marks in both form and function. They are an intelligent, powerful, and agile breed…
Learn more >>
German Shorthaired Pointer
This handsome hunter owes its popularity to its versatility, power, and enthusiasm in the field and beyond. They are an all-purpose…
Learn more >>
German Wirehaired Pointer
The German Wirehaired Pointer was developed by German hunters motivated to create a durable, energetic pointer that was as…
Learn more >>
Giant Schnauzer
The Giant Schnauzer, the largest of the Schnauzer breeds, is not technically a giant breed, but they are large and powerful…
Learn more >>
Glen of Imaal Terrier
This salt of the earth terrier is one of four terrier breeds native to Ireland and the least common of the four. They exemplify…
Learn more >>
Golden Retriever
Their beautiful golden coats, intelligence, and enthusiasm for pleasing their masters has resulted in the immense popularity…
Learn more >>
Gordon Setter
The Gordon Setter is a Scottish breed whose lineage goes back to the 17th century. The breed attained notable popularity…
Learn more >>
Grand Basset Griffon Vendéen
Don't let the charming, sweet face of a Grand Basset Griffon Vendéen fool you. These long-backed, short-legged dogs are…
Learn more >>
Great Dane
Stately in manner and impressive in size the so called “king of dogs” is a gentle giant known for its friendly, energetic…
Learn more >>
Great Pyrenees
This breed takes its name from the mountain range in southwestern Europe where it was developed to be an indispensable helper…
Learn more >>
Greater Swiss Mountain Dog
The Greater Swiss Mountain Dog, or GSMD, originated in the remote, mountainous regions of Switzerland and were developed…
Learn more >>
Greyhound
A standard bearer of canine speed and athleticism, the Greyhound is one of the oldest breeds and has a history bathed in…
Learn more >>
Harrier
This compact cousin of the English Foxhound was developed to hunt hare in packs and at a slower pace that was appropriate…
Learn more >>
Havanese
The sweet but sturdy little Havanese is descended from dogs brought to Cuba from Spain and has evolved from a lap-warmer…
Learn more >>
Ibizan Hound
The Ibizan Hound is thought to have been brought the Spanish island of Ibiza by ancient sea-traders, possibly Phoenicians.…
Learn more >>
Icelandic Sheepdog
This confident and capable companion and working dog is Iceland’s only native breed and was introduced by the Vikings in…
Learn more >>
Irish Red and White Setter
The Irish Red and White Setter is an athletic, intuitive, and courageous hunter that predates its close relative, the Irish…
Learn more >>
Irish Setter
The Irish Setter is one hunting’s most recognizable canine mascots. Their flashy red coat and gallant, sporting style distinguishes…
Learn more >>
Irish Terrier
The Irish Terrier charms with its lithe and lively qualities and its terrier zest for life and its many awaiting amusements.…
Learn more >>
Irish Water Spaniel
This largest of spaniels is regarded as unique not only for its size but also for its liver-colored curly coat and distinctive…
Learn more >>
Irish Wolfhound
This venerable sighthound of great size, strength, and endurance is the tallest of dogs but not the heaviest. Irish Wolfhounds…
Learn more >>
Italian Greyhound
Tiny in size but possessing the grace and genteel of its taller sighthound relatives, the Italian Greyhound is an affectionate…
Learn more >>
Japanese Chin
A charming companion through and through, the Japanese Chin was once solely a luxurious lap warmer of the Japanese nobility,…
Learn more >>
Keeshond
The Keeshond shares its lineage with several other breed of arctic ancestry: the Samoyed, Chow Chow, Norwegian Elkhound,…
Learn more >>
Kerry Blue Terrier
The handsome and multi-talented Kerry Blue Terrier is a native of County Kerry, Ireland and has worn many hats throughout…
Learn more >>
Komondor
A fully corded Komondor is an incredible sight! Their distinctive corded coat serves to protect them from attack, help them…
Learn more >>
Kuvasz
Best known for their exceptional livestock guarding abilities, the courageous and noble Kuvasz originally comes from Tibet…
Learn more >>
Labrador Retriever
The popular and personable Labrador Retriever was developed in Newfoundland to be an assistant to fisherman, helping them…
Learn more >>
Lagotto Romagnolo
Originally bred as waterfowl retrievers, Lagotto Romagnolo today are best known as the world’s best truffle sniffing dog.…
Learn more >>
Lakeland Terrier
The Lakeland Terrier is one of the oldest terrier breeds still around today and originated in England. Like many terriers,…
Learn more >>
Leonberger
The Leonberger was developed during the 1880s in Leonberg, Germany as family companion, farm worker, and draft dog. In addition…
Learn more >>
Lhasa Apso
The Lhasa Apso originated many centuries ago in isolated regions of the Himalayas as a companion and sentinel in Buddhist…
Learn more >>
Lowchen
The bright and lively Lowchen was developed in Pre-Renaissance Europe around 400 years ago as a companion for the aristocratic…
Learn more >>
Maltese
Once known as “Ye ancient dogge of Malta”, the gentle and elegant little Maltese has been gracing the laps of aristocrats…
Learn more >>
Manchester Terrier
The sleek and alert Manchester Terrier originated in England is a descendant of the oldest known terrier breed, the Black…
Learn more >>
Mastiff
The Mastiff is a dog of immense proportions as well as personality. These stately giants have been protecting their masters…
Learn more >>
Miniature American Shepherd
The Miniature American Shepherd strongly resembles the Australian Shepherd, but... smaller. This pint-sized herder is noted…
Learn more >>
Miniature Bull Terrier
The rambunctious and comical Miniature Bull Terrier packs all the standard-size Bull Terrier shenanigans (of the best variety!)…
Learn more >>
Miniature Pinscher
Packing a ton of personality and punch into a small package, the Miniature Pinscher is a zesty addition to any household.…
Learn more >>
Miniature Schnauzer
The Miniature Schnauzer mini schnauzer is the smallest of the Schnauzers, and apart from size, shares many admirable traits…
Learn more >>
Neapolitan Mastiff
The Neapolitan Mastiff impresses with it massive size, stern appearance, and superfluous wrinkles. They are an ancient breed,…
Learn more >>
Nederlandse Kooikerhondje
Originating in the Netherlands and popular in the 17th and 18th century, the Nederlandse Kooikerhondje is a highly athletic…
Learn more >>
Newfoundland
The Newfoundland, like many other versatile and intelligent working breeds, has worn many hats throughout its history. They…
Learn more >>
Norfolk Terrier
The spry and compact Norfolk Terrier is admired for its terrier determination, intellect, and abundant charm. This English…
Learn more >>
Norwegian Buhund
The Nowegian Buhund is a member of the large Spitz class of dogs and originated in the western coastlands of Norway. The…
Learn more >>
Norwegian Elkhound
This sturdy and courageous breed originated in Scandinavia for the purpose of pursuing and helping hunters subdue large game…
Learn more >>
Norwegian Lundehund
This distinctive Spitz was developed on the isolated islands of arctic Norway to hunt Puffins on and around steep, vertical…
Learn more >>
Norwich Terrier
The Norwich Terrier is one of the smallest working terriers but packs plenty of substance and work ethic into their compact…
Learn more >>
Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever
This spunky retriever comes was developed in its namesake Nova Scotia in the early 19th century to toll, lure, and retrieve…
Learn more >>
Old English Sheepdog
The “OES” is known widely for their unique beauty but under their profuse, distinctive coat lies an intelligent and athletic…
Learn more >>
Otterhound
Though the days of otter hunting are over (thankfully!), the Otterhound still retains the qualities that enabled him to excel…
Learn more >>
Papillon
The dainty Papillon, whose name means “butterfly” in French, has been gracing lucky laps for centuries. They original…
Learn more >>
Parson Russell Terrier
With his spunk and athleticism, the Parson Russell Terrier is ready to dive headfirst into any sporting activity, whether…
Learn more >>
Pekingese
The regal Pekingese has been a cherished companion since at least the 8th century. Images of this compact companion abound…
Learn more >>
Pembroke Welsh Corgi
Ebullient. Comical. Charming. Many flattering words can be used to describe the Pembroke Welsh Corgi. Their smile is as contagious…
Learn more >>
Petit Bassett Griffon Vendeen
The lively, low-riding PBGV is a small French hound that can be traced back to the 16th century and is descended from the…
Learn more >>
Pharaoh Hound
As its name suggests, this dog comes from Egypt and has been a treasured hunter and companion since as far back as 3000 BC!…
Learn more >>
Plott Hound
This handsome hound is the state dog of North Carolina and descends from Hanoverian Hounds brought from Germany by the Plott…
Learn more >>
Pointer
Pointers have been our distinguished hunting companions since the 1600’s. Their exact ancestry isn’t clear but it is…
Learn more >>
Polish Lowland Sheepdog
These are a very popular breed in their native Poland, where they are known as “Polski Owczarek Nizinny”, or “PONs”.…
Learn more >>
Pomeranian
Few breeds attract as much adoring attention as the Pomeranian. This diminutive breed packs a mighty punch of spirit and…
Learn more >>
Poodle
Personable and intelligent, the poodle is a perennial favorite the world over. In addition to a hypoallergenic coat that…
Learn more >>
Portuguese Podengo Pequeno
The “Pequeno” is a primitive breed descended from ancient hounds brought to the Iberian Peninsula by the Phoenicians…
Learn more >>
Portuguese Water Dog
The Portuguese Water Dog or “Cao de Agua” has been assisting fishermen in its native Portugal for centuries. Possessing…
Learn more >>
Pug
The personable Pug has a way of wiggling into the hearts of many. And who wouldn’t want such a cheerful, confident companion…
Learn more >>
Puli
The Puli has been assisting shepherds with their flocks in what is modern day Hungary for over a 1000 years. Puli ancestors…
Learn more >>
Pumi
Compact, clever, agile, and brave. The Hungarian Pumi is a nimble herding dog that loves to work. They combine the biddability…
Learn more >>
Pyrenean Shepherd
The spritely, intelligent little shepherd has been an indispensable working dog in the Pyrenees Mountains of southern France…
Learn more >>
Rat Terrier
Are you looking for a little friend who wants to watch TV with you, go on walks, AND kill rats in the barn? Well, let us…
Learn more >>
Redbone Coonhound
This eye-catching hound is revered for both its flashy looks and superior hunting instincts. They are an old American breed,…
Learn more >>
Rhodesian Ridgebacks
Also known as the African Lion Hound, the Rhodesian Ridgeback was developed by the Boer farmers to accompany them on their…
Learn more >>
Rottweiler
The courageous and self-possessed Rottweiler commands admiration and respect. They are well-known as guardians but excel…
Learn more >>
Russell Terriers
The Russel Terrier is a robust, utilitarian terrier. It originated in England, but was perfected in Australia. They are closely…
Learn more >>
Saluki
Don’t be fooled by the Saluki’s delicate appearance, this breed embodies sight-hound focus and gameness. Their endurance…
Learn more >>
Samoyed
The all-purpose Samoyed is an ancient breed that originated in Siberia and was employed by native people to herd reindeer,…
Learn more >>
Schipperke
The clever and rambunctious Schipperke would prefer to bounce right into your heart rather than take a less direct approach.…
Learn more >>
Scottish Deerhound
This stately sighthound is a star of track and field as well as more urbane pursuits. They are admired for their outstanding…
Learn more >>
Scottish Terrier
This iconic member of the Terrier Group was introduced to America in the 1890’s and has remained a popular pet ever since.…
Learn more >>
Sealyham Terrier
The gregarious Sealyham is game for just about anything you can dream up to satisfy their natural curiosity and eagerness.…
Learn more >>
Shetland Sheepdog
The Shetland Sheepdog is one of America’s most popular breeds and recognizable to many as a rough collie in miniature.…
Learn more >>
Shiba Inu
Shiba Inu means “brushwood dog” in Japanese! That explains so much! This smallest of the Japanese native breeds was bred…
Learn more >>
Shih Tzu
The buoyant and bouncing Shih Tzu has been treasured by its owners for over a 1000 years. They may have originated from crosses…
Learn more >>
Siberian Husky
The versatile Siberian Husky is has been our helper for a long time and across many, many miles! They are believed to descend…
Learn more >>
Silky Terrier
In case you were having trouble deciding between the Yorkshire Terrier and the Australian Terrier, you’re in luck! The…
Learn more >>
Skye Terrier
This rare beauty is one the oldest terrier breeds and originated in the Skye Islands off the coast of Scotland. As with many…
Learn more >>
Sloughi
The Sloughi is an ancient sighthound that originated in Northern Africa, specializing in hunting fox, gazelle, hare, jackal,…
Learn more >>
Smooth Fox Terrier
The bold and bright Smooth Fox Terrier is a breed perfectly suited to those who appreciate the vim and vigor of the Terrier…
Learn more >>
Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier
These affable, adorable terriers are hard not to spot once you know what to look for. Their soft, golden, wooly, coat and…
Learn more >>
Spinone Italiano
Oh, to be as handsome and utilitarian as the charming Spinone Italiano! They are Italy’s all-purpose hunting dog, capable…
Learn more >>
St. Bernard
The gentle and dignified St. Bernard would have been a welcome sight to the weary mountaineer braving the treacherous alpine…
Learn more >>
Staffordshire Bull Terrier
Enthusiasts of the Staffordshire Bull Terrier can apply many adjectives to them: brave, devoted, enthusiastic, friendly,…
Learn more >>
Staffordshire Terrier Club of America
The Staffordshire Terrier is a powerful, short-legged dog (up to 19” tall), thought to come from a cross from the Bulldog…
Learn more >>
Standard Schnauzer
Rich in character inside and out, with their arched eyebrows and grizzled beards, this a very recognizable breed. The original…
Learn more >>
Sussex Spaniel
This distinguished spaniel has been around for many centuries and was one of the AKC’s original nine officially recognized…
Learn more >>
Swedish Vallhund
This compact herding dog, known for its fearless and adventurous spirit was once called the “Viking Dog”, as that was…
Learn more >>
Tibetan Mastiff
The massive and majestic Tibetan Mastiff has developed over thousands of years in isolation in the unforgiving Himalayan…
Learn more >>
Tibetan Spaniel
Known affectionately as “Tibbies” and “Little Lions”, Tibetan Spaniels are one of three Non-Sporting Group dogs native…
Learn more >>
Tibetan Terrier
The Tibetan Terrier has been existence for 2000 years, developed and raised in monasteries by Tibetan lamas. Like other ancient…
Learn more >>
Toy Fox Terrier
This little dynamo is the perfect combination of tenacious terrier and laid back lapdog. The creators of the breed crossed…
Learn more >>
Treeing Walker Coonhound
The determined and durable Treeing Walker Coonhounds springs from a long line of fox hounds originally brought to America…
Learn more >>
Vizsla
The striking and energetic Vizsla descends from dogs used as companions and hunters by the Magyar hordes that settled in…
Learn more >>
Welsh Springer Spaniel
A member of the fun and friendly Spaniel group, this breed makes both a great hunting partner and a playful family pet. The…
Learn more >>
Welsh Terrier
This terrier was originally known as the Black and Tan Wirehaired Terrier, and they hail from Wales. They were brought to…
Learn more >>
West Highland White Terrier
The “Westie”, originally known as the Poltallach Terrier was developed in Scotland. Like most terriers, he boasts a confident…
Learn more >>
Whippet
Athletic and elegant, the whippet is an English Greyhound in miniature. Originally bred as hunters, they combine the swift…
Learn more >>
Wire Fox Terrier
This little dog is “wiry” in both coat and character. Possessing the bon vivant typical of the terrier group, the Wirehaired…
Learn more >>
Wirehaired Pointing Griffon
Griffon Korthals This is a rugged(ly handsome!) breed. Their sturdy build and dense double coat protect them from almost anything nature throws…
Learn more >>
Wirehaired Vizsla
The handsome and hardy Wirehaired Vizsla was developed by Hungarian falconers in the first half of the 20th century. Though…
Learn more >>
Xoloitzcuintli
The Xoloitzcuintli is one of the oldest and rarest breeds, and archeological evidence indicate that ancestors of this breed…
Learn more >>
Yorkshire Terrier
This popular, portable pooch boasts brains and brawn…in miniature! Its glamorous trimmings today belie its working-class…
Learn more >>




Dog Finders’ Guide

There is no doubt that the bond between people and dogs transcends human understanding. It’s a bond that represents our longest and closest association with another species. Along the way dogs have been our working partners, our playmates and best friends, bringing us joy and meeting all kinds of practical needs.  At NAIA, we aim to help you maximize the joys and benefits of this multi-faceted relationship with information from hands-on canine experts, including trainers, breeders, behaviorists, and medical professionals. This Dog Finders’ Guide is one step in that direction.

Does the world need another site that matches a dog with an owner? Consider this: The new global marketplace has changed the way we acquire our dogs. Cheaper transportation and the rise of mobile communication, the Internet, and social media have created a paradigm shift in the way people get dogs.
Learn more >>


Interesting Facts

Your dog loves receiving belly rubs, pets, going for walks, and just hearing the sound of your voice. But did you know that in between all those wags, your dog is doing something important for you, too? Petting your dog for 15-30 minutes lowers your blood pressure and reduces stress by lowering the level of cortisol (a stress hormone) in your blood. Furthermore, interactions with your dog cause you to release “feel good” hormones such as oxytocin, a process that not only puts you and your dog in a better mood, but one that can be of service to people who suffer from depression or stress-related disorders.

 


Related Articles

 


Gallery Photos

Dogs Gallery


Popular Videos

 

 

 


NAIA - National Animal Interest Alliance Discover Animals is a web-based educational resource offered by the NAIA
To learn more about the NAIA or about other NAIA programs, visit us at www.NAIAOnline.org
if you would like to help, join or support the NAIA or any of its programs please click here >>