The Toy Fox Terrier

Country of Origin:
The Toy Fox Terrier originated in the USA

Height:
A Toy Fox Terrier should be about 10 inches (25 cm.) in height.

Weight:
Toy Fox Terriers weigh about 3.5 to 7 pounds (1.5 to 3 kg.)

Colors:
The Toy Fox Terrier has a predominantly white coat with different colored markings including tan and black.

Coat:
The Toy Fox Terrier 's smooth short satiny coat is easy to take care of and requires only occasional brushing. The Toy Fox Terrier is a light shedder.

Temperament:
Toy Fox Terriers are extremely loyal, curious and intelligent. Ameritoys believe that they are big dogs. They are highly trainable and make good companions for the deaf or the disabled. Toy Fox Terriers are energetic but not yappy.

Health Concerns:
Toy Fox Terriers are prone to leg calve perthes and stifle, some are allergic to beet pulp, corn and wheat.

Life Expectancy:
The expected life span of the Toy Fox Terrier is about 13-14 years.

Living Environment:
Toy Fox Terriers are active indoors and will generally take care of their own exercise needs. They are intolerant of cold weather.

AKC Group:
The Toy Fox Terrier is in the Toy Group.

The American Staffordshire

Country of Origin:
The American Staffordshire Terrier originated in the USA

Height:
American Staffordshire Terriers: Dogs 17-19 inches (43-48cm) Bitches 16-18 inches (41-46cm)

Weight:
American Staffordshire Terriers weigh 57-67 pounds (25-30 kg)

Colors:
The American Staffordshire Terrier can be a combinations of white, black tan and liver.

Coat:
The American Staffordshire Terrier's coat is short and sleek, and should be brushed regularly. A rub with a chamois will make their coat shine. The AmStaf is an average shedder.

Temperament:
When properly trained the American Staffordshire Terrier is an excellent companion with both children and adults, as well as an excellent guard dog. The AmStaf is loyal, courageous, willing and very eager to please its master. It will protect its master no matter what. This dog was originally bred as a fighting dog and can be aggressive towards other breeds, particularly if not properly trained. It can also be difficult to housebreak. It is not a breed for a beginner.

Health Concerns:
The American Staffordshire Terrier is prone to hip dysplasia and hereditary cataracts

Life Expectancy:
The American Staffordshire Terrier can be expected to live up to about 10-12 years.

Living Environment:
American Staffordshire Terriers can live in an apartment without a yard provided they receive plenty of exercise. When walking the AmStaf in public places it must be kept on a leash to avoid fights with other dogs.

AKC Group:
The American Staffordshire Terrier is a member of the Terrier Group

the American Eskimo Dog

Country of Origin:
Originally from the Nordic countries but officially recognized as the American Eskimo Dog in the US.

Height:
Toy: 9-12 inches (23-30cm) Miniature: over 12 (30cm) up to 15 inches (38cm) Standard: over 15 inches (38cm) up to 19 inches (48cm)

Weight:
Toy: 6-10 pounds (2.4-4.5kg) Miniature: 10-20 pounds (4.5-9kg) Standard: 18-35 pounds (8kg-16kg)

Colors:
The American Eskimo Dog's coat is always white, or white with biscuit or cream markings.

Coat:
The Eskie's thick coat should be brushed twice a week, and daily when shedding. This breed is an average shedder.

Temperament:
Highly intelligent and very trainable, American Eskimo dogs will be weary of strangers until introduced. Affectionate, Eskies will bark and needs firm handling. Loyal and energetic, American Eskimo dogs must be thoroughly socialized when young.

Health Concerns:
Attention should be paid to the Eskie's eyes and tear ducts, also the coat should be flea free which could otherwise cause dermatitis.

Life Expectancy:
The American Eskimo Dog can be expected to live about 15 years.

Living Environment:
The American Eskimo Dog loves to be taken for walks and should be done so on a leash. This breed will do well in an apartment.

AKC Group:
The American Eskimo Dog is in the Non-Sporting Group.

The Cocker Spaniel

Country of Origin:
The Cocker Spaniel originated in the U.S.

Height:
Male Cocker Spaniels range from 14.5 inches to 15.5 inches. Female Cocker Spaniels range from 13.5 inches to 14.5 inches.

Weight:
Cocker Spaniels range from 24 to 28 pounds.

Colors:
Cocker Spaniels can be any solid color or parti-color (one of which has to be white) coats.

Coat:
The Cocker Spaniel has a silky coat, which can be flat or slightly wavy. Brushing twice a week is recommended to keep its coat from matting and odor free.

Temperament:
Cocker Spaniels are lovable family dogs. Playful and sweet, Cocker Spaniels are very eager to please their owners.

Health Concerns:
Cocker Spaniel are susceptible to ear infections, eye problems, hip dysplasia and epilepsy.

Life Expectancy:
The expected life span of the Cocker Spaniel is 12-15 years.

Living Environment:
Cocker Spaniels adapt well to any kind of environment and setting, just as long as they get sufficient amounts of exercise. A long daily walk is good exercise for the Cocker Spaniel.

AKC Group:
The Cocker Spaniel is in the sporting group.

Country of Origin:
The American Bulldog originated in the USA

Height:
Dogs 22-28 inches (55-70 cm.) Bitches 20-26 inches (52-65 cm.)

Weight:
Dogs 70-120 pounds (32-54 kg.) Bitches 60-100 pounds (27-45kg.)

Colors:
The American Bulldog can be in combinations of white, brindle, brown, red, or tan.

Coat:
The American Bulldog has a short, thick and shiny coat. The coat should be brushed regularly and bathed only when necessary. This breed is an average shedder.

Temperament:
The American Bulldog is truly loyal and obedient of its master if trained properly. It is eager to please and genuinely loves children. The American Bulldog is known to be assertive and bold. It is happiest when it has a job to do.

Health Concerns:
American Bulldogs are prone to hip dysplasia.

Life Expectancy:
American Bulldogs can be expected to live up to 16 years.

Living Environment:
The American Bulldog is inactive indoors and requires a yard and moderate exercise outside.

AKC Group:
Not Recognized

The Black and Tan Coonhound

Country of Origin:
The Black and Tan Coonhound originated in the U.S.A.

Height:
Black and Tan Coonhounds are 23-27 inches (58-68 cm.)

Weight:
The Black and Tan Coonhound will weigh 50-75 pounds (45-64 kg.)

Colors:
Fulfilling their namesake, the Black and Tan Coonhound is black & tan.

Coat:
The Black and Tan Coonhound's smooth glossy coat requires brushing only as necessary.

Temperament:
Good-natured and determined, the Black and Tan Coonhound is an excellent hunting companion. This breed is better with older children and will be reserved around strangers. The Black and Tan Coonhound will howl if left alone too much; it loves to follow scents and should never be let off a leash in an unsafe area.

Health Concerns:
Because of its long ears and loose-lidded eyes, Black and Tan Coonhounds may be susceptible to infections. Regular and careful cleaning should be done as a preventative measure. This breed should not be overfed.

Life Expectancy:
The Black and Tan Coonhound's life expectancy is about 10-12 years.

Living Environment:
Best suited for country living, the Black and Tan Coonhound requires lots of space for running and roaming and is not suited for apartment life.

AKC Group:
The Black and Tan Coonhound is in the Hound Group

Country of Origin:
The German Shepherd Dog originated in Germany.

Height:
Male German Shepherd Dogs range from 24 inches to 26 inches. Female German Shepherd Dogs range from 22 inches to 24 inches.

Weight:
Male German Shepherd Dogs range from 75 to 90 pounds. Female German Shepherd Dogs range from 60 to 70 pounds.

Colors:
German Shepherd Dogs are most commonly black, gray and tan.

Coat:
German Shepherd Dogs have an undercoat, which protects against temperature and bugs, as well as a straight outer coat. Their coat requires regular brushing.

Temperament:
The German Shepherd Dog is a highly intelligent, territorial dog breed. Initially suspicious of strangers, the German Shepherd Dog is an excellent watchdog.

Health Concerns:
The German Shepherd Dog is susceptible to bloat, skin disease, congenital heart problems and hip dysplasia. It should be noted that the enormous popularity of German Shepherd Dogs has resulted in careless breeding. This has caused a number of crippling genetic diseases within the German Shepherd Dog population.

Life Expectancy:
The expected life span of the German Shepherd Dog is 10-12 years.

Living Environment:
German Shepherd Dogs need frequent exercise and daily mental challenges. They make good housedogs, although a fenced yard and plenty of stimulation is crucial for this devoted and faithful dog breed.

AKC Group:
The German Shepherd Dog is in the Herding group.

The Alaskan Malamute

Country of Origin:
The Alaskan Malamute originated in Alaska.

Height:
Alaskan Malamutes range from 23 inches to 28 inches.

Weight:
Alaskan Malamutes range from 75 to 125 pounds.

Colors:
Alaskan Malamutes are typically white with either black, red or gray shadings. This dog breed also has an off-white undercoat.

Coat:
Alaskan Malamutes have thick coats with a course outercoat and a dense undercoat. This dog breed is prone to heavy shedding and requires brushing at least twice a week.

Temperament:
The Alaskan Malamute is a friendly, good natured dog breed who is usually good with children and strangers. Self-assured and strong-willed, this dog breed tends to be very stubborn and early obedience training is a must.

Health Concerns:
The Alaskan Malamute is susceptible to hip dysplasia, chondrodysplasia and eye problems.

Life Expectancy:
The expected life span of the Alaskan Malamute is 10-12 years.

Living Environment:
Alaskan Malamutes need lots of space. A house with a large fenced yard with some shade is essential for this dog breed.

AKC Group:
The Alaskan Malamute is in the Working group.

The Alaskan Husky

Country of Origin:
The Alaskan Husky originated in Alaska, US

Height:
The Alaskan Husky ranges from 23 to 26 inches

Weight:
The Alaskan Husky weighs 44 - 66 lbs.

Colors:
The Alaskan Husky's coat comes in one colour or multicolour - mainly black, grey and white but also red or brown

Coat:
Alaskan Huskies have heavy undercoats which helps them cope with the very low temperatures of their native habitat.

Temperament:
Alaskan Huskies are generally reserved around strangers, they rarely bark, and generally tend to make yelping or howling noises. They are a clever breed but sometimes are picky eaters especially if there is only one dog. The Alaskan Husky is more reserved and calm than its Siberian Husky and Alaskan Malamute cousins; friendly toward its family and curious about others. Because they are positive toward strangers, they are not good watchdog material.

Living Environment:
Alaskan Huskies are runners and need to be active in order to stay happy and healthy.

AKC Group:
Not recognized (working dog).

Alapaha Blueblood Bulldog

Country of Origin:
The Alapaha Blueblood Bulldog originated in the Southern US.

Height:
Alapaha Blueblood Bulldogs are 24 inches (61 cm.)

Weight:
Alapaha Blueblood Bulldog Dogs weigh up to 100 pounds (47 kg.) Bitches- about 78 pounds (34 kg.)

Colors:
Alapaha Blueblood Bulldogs come in blue merle, brown merle, red merle with white trim or chocolate & white.

Coat:
Short and stiff, the Alapaha Blueblood Bulldog's coat requires little grooming. This breed should be bathed bi-monthly. Alapaha Blueblood Bulldogs are average shedders.

Temperament:
Loyal and obedient, the Alapaha Blueblood Bulldog will defend its family to the death. They are good with children, quick to train and love human companionship. The Alapaha Blueblood Bulldog makes an excellent guard and watchdog.

Health Concerns:
The Alapaha Blueblood Bulldog comes from a small genetic pool and is thus prone to certain deformities such as inversion of eyelids.

Life Expectancy:
The Alapaha Blueblood Bulldog can be expected to live about 12-15 years.

Living Environment:
The Alapaha Blueblood Bulldog requires at least an average sized yard to fulfill its activity needs. This breed enjoys running free in a safe enclosed space. Alapaha Bluebloods enjoy long walks.

AKC Group:
Not Recognized by the AKC

Country of Origin:
The Akita dog breed originated in Japan.

Height:
Akitas range from 24 inches to 28 inches.

Weight:
Akitas range from 75 to 110 pounds.

Colors:
Akitas' coats can be of any color including white, brindle and pinto.

Coat:
Akitas have a straight, harsh outercoat and a soft, dense undercoat. Regular brushing is required to keep the coat looking neat.

Temperament:
The Akita is a friendly and affectionate dog breed. Early socialization is a must to be assured that the Akita will not become aggressive.

Health Concerns:
The Akita is susceptible to hip dysplasia, gastric torsion and eye problems.

Life Expectancy:
The expected life span of the Akita is 10-12 years.

Living Environment:
Akitas do best in a house with a fenced yard. The owner of an Akita should be an energetic leader in order to handle this large and powerful dog breed.

AKC Group:
The Akita is in the Working group.

Afghan hound

Country of Origin:
The Afghan Hound originated in Afghanistan

Height:
In the USA males 26-28", females 24-26"; in Europe and Australia males 27-29", females 25-27".

Weight:
Afghan Hound males weigh 55-65 lbs, females 45-55 lbs.

Colors:
The Afghan Hound comes in a wide variety of colors which include solid black or blue, black and tan, red, cream and brindle. Some light colored hounds are self colored others have black masks and ear fringes.

Coat:
The Afghan Hound is a high maintenance breed and requires regular grooming and bathing. As their hair has to stay on the dog for a long time in order to grow to its full length, they are not seasonal shedders. They have very little oil in their coats so do not have doggy odor.

Temperament:
The adult Afghan Hound has a royal bearing and may be aloof and dignified but should never be shy. With his family he can be a clown and very affectionate. They are intelligent watchdogs and do not bark just to make a noise. Training an Afghan Hound can be a challenge - they learn very quickly but then have to be convinced that there is a purpose behind what they have learned! Reward training works well with an Afghan Hound. They are sighthounds and will chase live game, so off leash exercise should be restricted to safely fenced areas.

Health Concerns:
The Afghan Hound is a generally healthy breed and the incidence of hereditary problems is low. Cases of hip dysplasia, juvenile cataract and hypothyroidism do occur, but the percentage is fortunately small.

Life Expectancy:
The Afghan Hound can be expected to live about 13-15 years.

Living Environment:
Afghan Hounds are very easy to live with and adults are equally at home in a mansion, a townhouse or an apartment. Dogs that do not have a fenced yard in which to run will need plenty of exercise and walks to the local park. Puppies are not recommended for apartment dwellers.

AKC Group:
The Afghan Hound is in the Hound Group

Affenpinscher

Country of Origin:
The Affenpinscher originated in Germany.

Height:
Affenpinschers are 10-15 inches in height(25-38 cm.)

Weight:
The Affenpinscher weighs 7-8 pounds (3-3.36 kg.)

Colors:
Affenpinschers are usually black, dark gray, tan and red.

Coat:
Non-shedding, the Affenpinscher's coat should never be cut and plucked only as necessary. This breed requires weekly brushings.

Temperament:
The Affenpinscher is said to be a bit of a class clown. Stubborn, clever, curious, busy and lively, the Affenpinscher loves being with its family and will get along well with other family pets. This mischievous breed requires firm training and is a quick learner though some are difficult to housebreak. Affenpinschers will sometimes guard their toys and food. This breed enjoys camping.

Health Concerns:
Affenpinschers may be prone to fractures, slipped stifle, patent ductus arteriosus, open fontanel and possible respiratory problems. Take care to ensure this breed does not take leaps off furniture.

Life Expectancy:
Affenpinschers can be expected to live about 10-12 years.

Living Environment:
Affenpinschers love to be played with and enjoy walks outside. This breed does not do well with temperature extremes as hot weather may be damaging to the coat. The Affenpinscher is well suited for apartment life and will get plenty of exercise indoors.

AKC Group:
Toy Group

Scottish Terrier

Country of Origin:
The Scottish Terrier originated in Scotland.

Height:
Scottish Terriers range from 10 inches to 11 inches.

Weight:
Scottish Terriers range from 19 to 23 pounds.

Colors:
Scottish Terriers are typically black, wheaten, dark gray and brindle.

Coat:
Scottish Terriers have a hard and wiry outer coat and a soft and short undercoat. The Scottish Terrier's coat sheds very little and only requires a quick daily brush.

Temperament:
The Scottish Terrier is a self-assured and alert dog breed that makes a good watch dog. Loyal with their owners, the Scottie may be aloof with strangers and aggressive with other dogs.

Health Concerns:
The Scottish Terrier is susceptible to flea allergy, Von Willebrand's disease and skin problems.

Life Expectancy:
The expected life span of the Scottish Terrier is 11-13 years.

Living Environment:
Scottish Terriers will do well in an apartment as long as they get sufficient amounts of exercise.

AKC Group:
The Scottish Terrier is in the Terrier group.

The Pug

Country of Origin:
The Pug originated in China.

Height:
Male Pugs range from 12 inches to 14 inches. Female Pugs range from 10 inches to 12 inches.

Weight:
Male Pugs range from 13 to 20 pounds. Female Pugs range from 13 to 18 pounds.

Colors:
Pug colors are typically silver, apricot-fawn or black, with clearly-defined black markings on the face.

Coat:
Pugs have soft and smooth coats. Relatively easy to maintain with some shedding, Pugs require brushing only once or twice a week.

Temperament:
Playful and happy, dignified and funny, Pugs do well with visitors, children and other pets. Although sometimes stubborn, the Pug is more typically pleasant and anxious to please. A show-off.

Health Concerns:
The Pug is susceptible to patellar luxation, epilepsy and skin problems.

Life Expectancy:
The expected life span of the Pug is 12-15 years.

Living Environment:
Pugs are a less active breed and require minimal exercise to stay happy. An excellent apartment dog, a walk each day will provide ample exercise for this lovable breed.

AKC Group:
The Pug is in the toy group.

Shih Tzu

Country of Origin:
The Shih Tzu originated in Tibet

Height:
Shih Tzus range from eight to eleven inches.

Weight:
Shih Tzus range from nine to sixteen pounds.

Colors:
Shih Tzus are white with either silver, black or brown.

Coat:
Shih Tzus have long, dense and straight coats. Daily grooming is essential to keep the Shih Tzu's coat soft.

Temperament:
The Shih Tzu is gentle yet a lively dog. This affectionate dog breed is good with people and considered a family dog.

Health Concerns:
The Shih Tzu is susceptible to kidney disorders. Teeth need regular veterinary attention

Life Expectancy:
The expected life span of the Shih Tzu is 11 to 14 years.

Living Environment:
Shih Tzus do well in apartments provided they receive regular exercise. Because of the Shih Tzu's small size, an adequate amount of exercise could be met by vigorous indoor activities or with short outdoor walks.

AKC Group:
The Shih Tzu is in the toy group.

Golden retriever

Country of Origin:
The Golden Retriever originated near the English-Scottish border.

Height:
Male Golden Retrievers range from 23 inches to 24 inches. Female Golden Retrievers range from 21.5 inches to 22.5 inches.

Weight:
Male Golden Retrievers range from 65 to 75 pounds. Female Golden Retrievers range from 55 to 65 pounds.

Colors:
Golden Retriever colors range from gold to cream.

Coat:
Golden Retrievers have a dense, water-repellent coat. Their coat requires a twice-weekly grooming.

Temperament:
The Golden Retriever is a devoted, responsible dog breed. Gentle and easy to train, this sporting dog enjoys retrieving and is superb with children.

Health Concerns:
The Golden Retriever is susceptible to skin allergies, thyroid problems, cataracts and other eye problems and hip dysplasia.

Life Expectancy:
The expected life span of the Golden Retriever is 10-13 years.

Living Environment:
Golden Retrievers are active dogs that need daily outdoor exercise and human contact. As the Golden Retriever is a very energetic breed, they do not do well in apartments, or as a companion for the elderly. Eager to please, Golden Retrievers enjoy learning new tricks and especially enjoy games that involve retrieving.

AKC Group:
The Golden Retriever is in the Sporting group.

Labrador Retriever

Country of Origin:
As the name suggests, The Labrador Retriever originated from the Canadian province of Newfoundland, along the East Coast of Canada. The Labrador Retriever did not come from Labrador.

Height:
Male Labrador Retrievers range from 22.5 inches to 24.5 inches. Female Labrador Retrievers range from 21.5 inches to 23.5 inches.

Weight:
Male Labrador Retrievers range from 65 to 80 pounds (30 to 36 kg). Female Labrador Retrievers range from 55 to 70 pounds (25 to 32 kg). Care should be taken as Labs are frequently allowed to become overweight, significantly increasing health risks for any canine.

Colors:
Labrador Retrievers may be black, yellow or chocolate.

Coat:
Labrador Retrievers have a short, straight and dense coat. Their coat is easily cared for with once a week grooming. They do shed, usually twice a year in normal climates so be sure to brush your labradore regularly to keep this to a minimum.

Temperament:
The Labrador Retriever is a kindly, outgoing dog breed. Easy to train, this water-loving dog breed is superb with children. When choosing your Labrador puppy, be sure to check out the temperament of the parents. Although Lab’s tend to have great temperaments for being around a family home and children, pay special attention to how the puppy’s parents behave. Behavior traits can be inherited and good behavior in the parents can indicate the future temperament of your puppy. Labs are highly intelligent and trainable, love to play and are extremely friendly. They crave human companionship and attention and need to feel like they are "part of the family" to be truly happy. Their loving nature and attachment to humans does not make them good watchdogs, however. For that, think of a German Shepherd companion for your Labrador puppy.

Health Concerns:
The Labrador Retriever is susceptible to skin allergies, epilepsy, eye diseases and joint problems. Labradors can be prone to hip and elbow dysplasias which are potentially crippling abnormalities of joint formation that can be inherited from the dog’s parents or relatives. An x-ray examination of both parents and as many ancestors as possible indicating that they are free of this abnormality will help you avoid this condition in your pet.

Life Expectancy:
The expected life span of the Labrador Retriever is 10-12 years.

Living Environment:
Labrador Retrievers need frequent exercise to stay happy and healthy. An urban or country environment with a fenced yard is ideal for this high energy dog breed. Labrador Retrievers love water and enjoy both swimming and retrieving. If you have decided that a Labrador Retriever puppy may be the right choice for your family, there are a few other things that you have to consider. You need to be aware that your Lab puppy will grow and will require proper exercise on a daily basis. Do you have the space in your house to accommodate such an animal, or a fenced in yard so that your dog can go out safely? Will you have enough time to spend on grooming your pet, and also on the training that may be required? Are you willing to spend the resources the keep your pet healthy?

AKC Group:
The Labrador Retriever is in the Sporting group.

Dachshund

Country of Origin:
The Dachshund originated in Germany.

Height:
Standard Dachshunds are 8 inches. Miniature Dachshunds are 6 inches.

Weight:
Standard Dachshunds range from 16 to 32 pounds. Miniature Dachshunds are under 11 pounds.

Colors:
Dachshunds can be any color, except white.

Coat:
Standard and Miniature Dachshunds have three coat types. The smoothhaired coat is short and shiny, the longhaired coat is of medium length and slighty wavy and the wirehaired coat is thick and hard. The longhaired and wirehaired coats require more attention for grooming purposes.

Temperament:
Dachshunds' temperament depend on their coat type. The smoothhaired Dachshunds are usually alert and friendly, while the longhaired Dachshunds tend to be more apprehensive and reserved with strangers. Of the three, wirehaired Dachshunds tend to be more lively and active, but stubborn.

Health Concerns:
The Dachshund is susceptible to genetic eye disease, disc and skin problems.

Life Expectancy:
The expected life span of the Dachshund is 12-14 years.

Living Environment:
Dachshunds do well in apartments as long as they get daily exercise. Owners should be aware that Dachshunds can be noisy.

AKC Group:
The Dachshund is in the Hound group.

Chihuahua

Colors:
Coloring in the breed is all over the map. Chihuahuas are acceptable in any color; however, some experts have concluded that the genes associated with merle or dapple are also associated with blindness. Dapple coloring is when light-colored spots are present on a background of a darker shade of the same color. In some countries, merle dogs may not be shown, as breeders try to remove this gene from the breeding pool. In the United States, acceptable colors range from solid black to solid white, with any patterning. However, the classic color is fawn, the same as the dog from the commercials.

Coat:
Chihuahuas have either short or long coats. The short coat is soft to touch and only requires minimal grooming. The long coat is soft and can either be straight, wavy or curly. The long coat needs occasional brushing to keep it from matting.

Temperament:
The Chihuahua is an excellent companion and a highly devoted breed. Reserved when it comes to strangers, the Chihuahua makes a good watch dog. The Chihuahua is known as a stay-at-home dog and gets along well with other household pets.

Health Concerns:
The Chihuahua is susceptible to patella luxation and eye problems.

Life Expectancy:
The expected life span of the Chihuahua is 15 or more years.

Living Environment:
Chihuahuas are adequate for apartment living, though they tend to be noisy. Chihuahuas need little exercise to remain happy and a couple of trips outside each day will provide ample exercise for this playful breed.

AKC Group:
The Chihuahua is in the toy group

German Shepherd

Country of Origin:
The German Shepherd Dog originated in Germany.

Height:
Male German Shepherd Dogs range from 24 inches to 26 inches. Female German Shepherd Dogs range from 22 inches to 24 inches.

Weight:
Male German Shepherd Dogs range from 75 to 90 pounds. Female German Shepherd Dogs range from 60 to 70 pounds.

Colors:
German Shepherd Dogs are most commonly black, gray and tan.

Coat:
German Shepherd Dogs have an undercoat, which protects against temperature and bugs, as well as a straight outer coat. Their coat requires regular brushing.

Temperament:
The German Shepherd Dog is a highly intelligent, territorial dog breed. Initially suspicious of strangers, the German Shepherd Dog is an excellent watchdog.

Health Concerns:
The German Shepherd Dog is susceptible to bloat, skin disease, congenital heart problems and hip dysplasia. It should be noted that the enormous popularity of German Shepherd Dogs has resulted in careless breeding. This has caused a number of crippling genetic diseases within the German Shepherd Dog population.

Life Expectancy:
The expected life span of the German Shepherd Dog is 10-12 years.

Living Environment:
German Shepherd Dogs need frequent exercise and daily mental challenges. They make good housedogs, although a fenced yard and plenty of stimulation is crucial for this devoted and faithful dog breed.

AKC Group:
The German Shepherd Dog is in the Herding group.

Boxer dog

Country of Origin:
The Boxer originated in Germany during the 19th century.

Height:
Male Boxers range from 22.5 to 25 inches. Female Boxers range from 21 to 23.5 inches.

Weight:
Male Boxers range from 65 to 80 pounds. Female Boxers range from 50 to 65 pounds.

Colors:
Boxer colors are fawn and brindle with white markings.

Coat:
Boxers have short and smooth coats that lie close to the body. Their coat requires only an occasional brushing.

Temperament:
The Boxer is an energetic, attentive and devoted dog breed who is gentle and patient with children. They behave well with other household pets, but are cautious with strange pets and people which make them good potential guard dogs.

Health Concerns:
The Boxer is susceptible to hip dysplasia, cancer (in older dogs), allergies and heart problems.

Life Expectancy:
The expected life span of the Boxer is 8-10 years.

Living Environment:
Boxers are full of energy and are perfect companions for active families. Boxers require mental and physical exertion and are not recommended for people who are easy going and slow-moving. Boxers are both sensitive to hot and cold weather and do best when allowed to divide their time between the house and the yard.

AKC Group:
The Boxer is in the working group.

American Pit Bull

Country of Origin:
The American Pit Bull Terrier originated in the United States

Height:
American Pit Bull Terriers are 18-22 inches (46-56 cm)

Weight:
American Pit Bull Terriers weigh 22 -110 pounds (10-50 kg)

Colors:
American Pit Bull Terriers are a multicolored, black and white coat.

Coat:
American Pit Bull Terriers have thick, short, shiny hair. Brush regularly with a firm bristle brush. A rub with a piece of toweling or chamois will make their coat gleam.

Temperament:
Good natured, loyal and affectionate, the American Pit Bull Terrier has been known to be aggressive towards other dogs; however this can be avoided with proper training. American Pit Bull Terriers when properly socialized do well around children and make great family pets. They are obedient, eager to please, courteous and intelligent and make great guard dogs.

Health Concerns:
The American Pit Bull Terrier is a generally healthy breed. Some known problems are hip dysplasia, hereditary cataracts and allergies to grass.

Life Expectancy:
The American Pit Bull Terrier can be expected to live about 12 years.

Living Environment:
A home with a fenced yard is recommended. American Pit Bull Terriers are very energetic, and not a great choice for a first time owner.

AKC Group:
Classed as the American Staffordshire Terrier by the AKC and as the American Pit Bull Terrier by the UKC

Yorkshire terrier

Country of Origin:
The Yorkshire Terrier originated in England.

Height:

Yorkshire Terriers range from eight inches to nine inches.

Weight:
Yorkshire Terriers range from three pounds to seven pounds.

Colors:
Yorkshire Terriers are typically blue-black or tan.

Coat:
Yorkshire Terriers have a long, silky coat. Daily grooming is essential to keep the Yorkshire Terrier's coat clean and fee of tangles.

Temperament:
The Yorkshire Terrier is a "big dog in a small dog body," ready for adventure. Affectionate with its owners, the Yorkshire Terrier can be timid around strangers and dislikes roughhousing.

Health Concerns:
The Yorkshire Terrier is susceptible to eye irritations, tracheal collapse, premature dental disease and patellar luxation

Life Expectancy:
The expected life span of the Yorkshire Terrier is 14-16 years.

Living Environment:
Yorkshire Terriers are less active than their larger terrier cousins and needs little exercise to remain happy. An excellent apartment dog, a walk each day will provide ample exercise for this affectionate breed.

AKC Group:
The Yorkshire Terrier is in the Toy group.

scientific & character information

DOG Scientific Information

Kingdom: Animalia
Phylum: Chordata
Subphylum: Vertebrata
Class: Mammalia
Order: Carnivora
Family: Canidae
Genus: Canis
Species: C. lupus
Subspecies: C.l. familiaris

DOG Character Information

The dog has long been considered as “Man’s best friend.” When dogs are properly cared for from the time they are puppies, they will grow to live a good healthy life. Proper care and attention will earn you undying loyalty from your canine friend.

Dogs are primarily different from other household pets for two main reasons: social attachment to humans, and physical temperament

Dogs are social creatures – they bond they form with humans is uncommon to other domesticated animals. Their friendly and protective natures make them ideal companions to humans.

Dogs are varied in their temperaments and have been bred to enhance specific characteristics. Because of their varied physical sizes and temperaments, it is very common for a pet owner to find a type dog that meets their emotional needs – there is pretty much a dog for any type of personality out there.

General information

General Information

The origin of the canine can be traced back with some certainty to the Eocene Miacids that existed nearly 55 million years ago. The modern day dog evolved from the Canoidea line (a coyote type of dog) that existed around 38 million years ago, which again evolved into a fox-like animal (the Leptocyon) and then into a wolf-like animal (the Tomarctus) about 10 million years ago. The Tomarctus was apparently native to the North American continent, and from there began expanding throughout the various parts of the world. The dog like Tomarctus was a dog-like carnivore that eventually evolved into the modern day dog.

Modern day evidence suggests that the dog is the closest relative to the wolf – experts have deduced this information based on genetics and behavior patterns.

These wolf like animals became domesticated as humans began raising the wolf pups as tame and social animals. Humans probably interacted more with these animals because of the shared interest in the same types of prey and habitats. Eventually these pups became dependent on the humans for food and adapted to living with humans. The modern day domestic dog (Canis lupus familiaris) is a descendent of these early wolf-pup domestications beginning around 10,000 BC.