Dog Breeds
Dog breed profiles - a complete list of dog breeds. Click here for advice on choosing the right dog...
Affenpinscher
A tough little dog, mischievous and cheeky in equal measures. The name derives from the German for "monkey-like terrier"…
Afghan Hound
Afghan Hound is a hardy yet glamorous dog with an exotic history, certainly dating back to the years BC.
Airedale Terrier
Known as the "King of Terriers", the Airedale is largest terrier breed and blessed with a majestic moustache. Renowned…
Alaskan Malamute
Affectionately known as the "snow train" due to its incredible strength and stamina, the Malamute was bred by an Innuit…
American Cocker Spaniel
The American Cocker Spaniel is a direct descendant of the English Cocker Spaniel, initially bred as a gundog, excelling…
Anatolian Shepherd
Its roots can be traced back to the mountainous regions of Turkey where it was bred to guard sheep and villages against…
Australian Cattle Dog
The Australian Cattle Dog is a breed with an interesting bloodline, originating with a mixture of the now extinct…
Australian Shepherd
The Australian Shepherd is an intelligent and versatile breed, they will respond well to human interaction and will get…
Australian Silky Terrier
The Australian Silky Terrier was originally bred from crossing Yorkshire and Australian Terriers. The Silky is a stocky…
Australian Terrier
The Australian Terrier was blessed with exceptional hearing and eyesight, and makes an excellent watchdog.
Basenji
The Basenji is one of the oldest breeds, images of its ancestors have been depicted in the tombs of the Pharaohs. The…
Basset Fauve De Bretagne
The Basset Fauve De Bretagne is an excellent bloodhound, originally bred to hunt in packs with French Royalty. The breed…
Basset Griffon Vendeen (Grand)
A happy go lucky dog who loves to be active. The Basset Griffon Vendeen Grand are independent and although always aim to…
Basset Griffon Vendeen (Petit)
A happy go lucky little dog who loves to be active. The Basset Griffon Vendeen Petit are independent and although always…
Basset Hound
The Basset Hound is a skilled pack hound that has been bred to track game with their excellent sense of smell. Their…
Beagle
The Beagle is an ancient English breed, and have been popular since the reigns of Henry VIII and Elizabeth I. Excellent…
Bearded Collie
The Bearded Collie should be considered a sociable breed, they do not like to be left alone and form a strong attachment…
Beauceron
The Beauceron was originally bred to protect livestock on the plains surrounding Paris the breed retains a strong…
Bedlington Terrier
The Bedlington Terrier is a curious looking dog, somewhat resembling a lamb. The breed was developed in the 13th Century…
Belgian Shepherd (Groenendael)
The Belgian Shepherd Groenendael is an intelligent and sociable breed who thrives under firm, fair leadership.
Belgian Shepherd (Laekenois)
The Belgian Shepherd Laekenois is an intelligent and sociable breed that thrives under firm, fair leadership.
Belgian Shepherd (Malinois)
The Belgian Shepherd Malinois is an intelligent and sociable breed who thrives under firm, fair leadership.
Belgian Shepherd (Tervueren)
The Belgian Shepherd Tervueren is an intelligent and sociable breed who thrives under firm, fair leadership.
Bergamasco
The Bergamasco is an ancient sheepdog breed that was originally found in Alpine regions, hence the shaggy coat.
Bernese Mountain Dog
The Bernese Mountain dog is a devoted family dog who is excellent with children. The origin of the breed can be traced…
Bichon Frise
The Bichon Frise is an adaptable little dog who will suit many lifestyles. Grooming will be a major part of your…
Bloodhound
The Bloodhound possesses an incredible tracking ability and is widely in use as police and search and rescue dogs.
Bolognese
The Bolognese is a beautiful little toy breed closely resembling and related to the Bichon and Maltese, the Bolognese is…
Border Collie
The Border Collie isn't for the novice dog owner - he needs time and dedication if he is to be a happy, well-balanced…
Border Terrier
The Border Terrier is an active dog who was originally bred to keep up with mounted hunts and go to ground after foxes.…
Borzoi
One of the world’s most elegant dogs, the graceful, aristocratic, exotic-looking Borzoi is instantly recognisable with…
Boston Terrier
Boston Terriers thrive on human company and want to spend most of their time with their families. This is an active dog…
Bouvier Des Flandres
The Bouvier Des Flandres is generally amiable and a loving companion, and excellent with children.
Boxer
The lovable Boxer has a big heart and bags of personality, so it's no wonder that the breed is the favourite of the…
Briard
The Briard is a rugged, traditional French herding breed, and is considered to be full of energy and rather boisterous.
Brittany
As its name suggests the Brittany breed originated in the Northern region of France. They are the smallest of the…
Bull Terrier
The Bull Terrier is a unique character who loves to act the clown. Despite his hardy appearance he doesn't do well…
Bull Terrier (Miniature)
The Bull Terrier was originally bred from crossing a Bulldog with an English Terrier. They are an enthusiastic dog…
Bulldog
Bulldogs were originally bred to bait bulls, the early examples of the breed were aggressive and tenacious fighters who…
Bullmastiff
The Bullmastiff has developed into a useful working dog in a variety of organisations due to the manner in which they…
Cairn Terrier
The Cairn Terrier is a lively and confident breed, but not aggressive, making them ideal family pets.
Canaan
Owing to the harsh conditions of the Middle East desert where the Canaan originates, the breed are highly intelligent…
Cao Castro Laboreiro
The Cao Castro Laboreiro is native to Portugal and is one of the oldest European dog breeds, used for generations as a…
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is classified as a Toy breed. They are affectionate, kind and a great companion, happy…
Cesky Terrier
The Cesky terrier is a relatively new breed, originally bred for hunting they are now more commonly used as companions…
Chesapeake Bay Retriever
The Chesapeake Bay Retriever is an active and outgoing dog who loves to swim! The breed is in the Gundog group and was…
Chihuahua (long haired)
The Long Haired Chihuahua is an indoor breed who loves his creature comforts. The Chihuahua is the smallest breed of dog…
Chihuahua (short haired)
The Short Haired Chihuahua tends to bond very closely with one family member. The Chihuahua's origins are shrouded in…
Chinese Crested
Chinese Crested Dogs are faithful companions and thrive on human company, although they are happy to be left alone for a…
Chow Chow
The chow chow originates from China. His name may well derive from the word "chaou" which means ''dog of great…
Clumber Spaniel
The Clumber is one of the oldest types of spaniel, but his hasn't stopped the breed from slipping down in populairty…
Cocker Spaniel (English)
The Cocker Spaniel wants to please his owner and excels at training. An energetic, bouncy dog best suited to an active…
Coton De Tulear
The Coton de Tulear, also known as the Royal Dog of Madagascar, was first recognised in 1990 but he has existed in his…
Curly-Coated Retriever
The Curly-Coated Retriever was the gundog of choice in the UK in the 1800s. They are powerful swimmers and are thought…
Dachshund
Dachshund translates from German as "badger hound", a clear indication of its original role, hence its short stature and…
Dalmatian
The Dalmatian is a breed with an incredible history that has accompanied Greek chariots and aristocratic European…
Dandie Dinmont Terrier
The Dandie Dinmont is an intelligent breed originally bred as a working dog. Dandie Dinmont Terriers are now included on…
Deerhound
The Deerhound is a sight hound bred through crossing English hounds with shaggy Scottish dogs. As the name suggests - it…
Dobermann
The Dobermann is best suited to a more experienced owner who will be capable of handling such a strong-willed and…
Dogue de Bordeaux
The Dogue de Bordeaux is an incredibly intelligent, but can be stubborn. Due to his size he is best suited to a large…
English Pointer
Originally a working dog, the Pointer makes an excellent family companion. It is kind, obedient and sensitive.
English Setter
A gundog that can adapt to 'pet' life providing plenty of opportunity to run freely is given. They love people and are…
English Springer Spaniel
The Springer Spaniel is an incredibly versatile breed and will try anything with great enthusiasm. A lively, energetic…
English Toy Terrier (Black and Tan)
The English Toy Terrier is a devoted companion and is the oldest of the native toy breeds.
Eskimo
Originally found in the Canadian Arctic, the Eskimo Dog was prized for its ability to pull great loads, search out seal…
Estrela Mountain
Another breed whose characteristics are closely tied into its working past. Estrela Mountain Dogs were used to guard…
Eurasier
Breeding for the Eurasier began back in the 1960s but it wasn't until the German Kennel club added the breed in 1972,…
Field Spaniel
A docile, friendly chap, perhaps more suited to country than town. Provided he is well exercised, he'll make a good,…
Finnish Lapphund
The Finnish Lapphund is a pastoral breed that was used in its native Finland as a herder of reindeer. It is a Spitz type…
Finnish Spitz
The national breed of Finland and conforming to traditional Spitz-type characteristics such as an keenness for hunting…
Flat-Coated Retriever
Flat Coated Retrievers are extroverts and have a sense of humour. They are slow to mature and retain their playful puppy…
Fox Terrier (Smooth)
A classic terrier, bred as its name suggests, to terrorise foxes by bolting down their holes and flushing them out so…
Fox Terrier (Wire)
A classic terrier, bred as its name suggests, to terrorise foxes by bolting down their holes and flushing them out so…
French Bulldog
French Bulldogs thrive on affection and companionship. Your French Bulldog will be an integral part of the family so…
German Longhaired Pointer
The German Longhaired Pointer (GLP) is regarded as one of the best hunt, point and retrieve breeds. They are naturally…
German Shepherd
The sensitive and devoted German Shepherd is a dog of many talents and a true all-rounder.
German Spitz
Able to trace their ancestry back to the Neolithic, the German Spitz is one of the oldest of domestic breeds.…
German Wirehaired Pointer
The German Wirehaired Pointer (GWP), known as the Deutch Drahthaar in its homeland, is a versatile gundog breed. Being a…
Giant Schnauzer
The largest of the three Schnauzers, powerful yet discriminate guard, ever alert and always playful. Does not moult and…
Glen of Imaal Terrier
This Irish breed was only exported to America in 1968 and is still rarely seen outside their native Wicklow. Bred as a…
Golden Retriever
The Golden Retriever is an ideal companion, sensitive and sensible. The breed has been adapted for various activities.
Gordon Setter
The Gordon Setter is a gundog that can adapt to 'pet' life providing plenty of opportunity to run freely is given. They…
Grand Bleu De Gascogne
An aristocratic French scent hound with a lovely gentle temperament. The Grand Bleu was originally bred in the middle…
Great Dane
Great Danes were originally used as hunting dogs to catch wild boar. Contrary to general belief, you don't need a huge…
Greyhound
The Greyhound has sealed its place in our affections with their lithe, handsome good looks, and lovable natures. They…
Griffon Bruxellois
The Griffon Bruxellois is known for its cute monkey-like expression and keen sense of self-importance. They make…
Gundog
The term gundog refers to any breed or type of dog that traditionally has ‘worked to the gun’. Typical gundogs are the…
Hamiltonstovare
The Hamiltonstovare is also known as the Hamilton Hound - and this extremely handsome dog carries himself with dignity.
Havanese
We give you the lowdown on the Havanese - a sturdy toy breed with a joyful character. This little dog would make an…
Hovawart
A hardy, energetic dog with lots of affection to give. Extremely intelligent and always alert. He would make a good…
Hungarian Kuvasz
The Kuvasz is an ancient breed, having worked the trade routes of the Urals. They found their way to Hungary, through…
Hungarian Puli
Also known as the Hungarian Water Dog, the Hungarian Puli is identified by its corded coat. An ancient herding breed who…
Hungarian Vizsla
The Hungarian Vizsla is a working breed and this must be taken into consideration. Hungarian Vizslas have an unusually…
Hungarian Wire-Haired Vizsla
The Vizsla is an HPR (hunt, point, retrieve) breed. He has great versatility, with the nose of a Bloodhound, pointing…
Ibizan Hound
The Ibizan Hound is an affectionate and loyal dog who will form a close attachment to its owner. They are a hunting dog…
Irish Red & White Setter
A gundog that can adapt to 'pet' life providing plenty of opportunity to run freely is given. They love people and are…
Irish Setter
The Irish Setter is a Gundog who can adapt to 'pet' life providing plenty of opportunity to run freely is given. They…
Irish Terrier
The Irish Terrier is devoted to his owners and sensitive to their moods. The breed was once referred to as the Irish Red…
Irish Water Spaniel
Almost human-like! The Irish Water Spaniel is a very intelligent dog that requires a lot of attention, plenty of walks…
Irish Wolfhound
The Irish Wolfhound is a loving a devoted dog. A Wolfhound wants to be with his family as much as possible - if left…
Italian Greyhound
The Italian is a breed who thrives on companionship and being close to its masters, equally at home in town or country.
Italian Spinone
The Italian Spinone or Italian Griffon originates from the Piedmont district of North West Italy. A member of the Hunt,…
Jack Russell Terrier
Jack Russells are lively, busy little dogs and need to be kept occupied, both physically and mentally. Training needs to…
Japanese Chin
A small breed, best suited to living life indoors and as a close companion. Originally a favourite of the Japanese…
Japanese Shiba Inu
A hardy Spitz-type dog, originally bred to hunt small game and vermin in the mountainous and bushy regions of Japan. The…
Japanese Spitz
The Japanese Spitz is closely associated with the Samoyed breed, similar in look an temperament. They are a wonderful…
Keeshond
The Keeshond (pronounced Kays Hawnd), probably one of the most mispronounced breed names. The breed used to be known as…
Kerry Blue Terrier
Taking its name from the County Kerry region of Ireland, the Kerry Blue Terrier is a feisty breed that was originally…
King Charles Spaniel
Also known as the English Toy Spaniel to the Americans, the King Charles was a favoured companion breed of the Royals…
Komondor
The Komondor was bred in its native Hungary to protect flocks from the danger of wolf attack. The Komondor is a large,…
Kooikerhondje
A Dutch working dog, the Kooikerhondje loves water and is an adept swimmer due to their original role luring ducks into…
Labradoodle
The Labradoodle temperament is, without doubt, as good as it gets in the dog world and is a particularly strong feature…
Labrador Retriever
The Labrador is a fantastic all-rounder - you name it, he'll most likely be able to do it. They revel in company and…
Lagotto Romagnolo
The Lagotto Romagnolo is also known as the Romagna Water Dog. This breed is one of the oldest waterfowl retrievers, its…
Lakeland Terrier
Lakeland Terriers were bred to hunt and kill foxes and vermin around the farms of the Lake District and have been bred…
Lancashire Heeler
Assertive and active, compact and clever, could the Lancashire Heeler be the perfect canine companion for you?
Leonberger
A large, formidable breed of dog descended from a mixture of St. Bernards, Newfoundlands and Great Pyrenees.…
Lhasa Apso
Lhasa Apso Breed Profile: The Lhasa Apso is a happy, alert dog with a long, heavy, straight, hard top coat, and a…
Lowchen
Known as the Little Lion Dog due to the preferred cut of their coat, the Lowchen was at one point officially the rarest…
Lucas Terrier
Though numerically small, with his affectionate, easy-going nature and good looks, could the Lucas Terrier have a big…
Maltese
The Maltese is a merry and full of fun dog breed, and despite their appearance and reputation are lively dogs.
Manchester Terrier
The Manchester Terrier is a breed that has maintained consistency in its conformation to type for nearly two centuries,…
Maremma Sheepdog
Still used as a working sheepdog in its native Italy, the Maremma is a proud breed and will not be submissive, rather…
Mastiff
A genuinely massive breed, the Mastiff (sometimes referred to as the English Mastiff) is descended from the Roman…
Miniature Pinscher
The 'Min Pin' is an elegant little dog, active and curious in character. Often thought of as a descendant of the…
Munsterlander (Large)
A close companion and hunt-point-retrieve breed blessed with an excellent nose, equally happy tracking game across land…
Munsterlander (Small)
A close companion and hunt-point-retrieve breed blessed with an excellent nose, equally happy tracking game across land…
Neapolitan Mastiff
Neapolitan Mastiffs are an ancient breed that have been used as guardians for centuries and form the basis of many of…
Newfoundland
The Newfoundland dog is renowned for its gentle and patient character. They are often described as sweet-natured, kind,…
Norfolk Terrier
The Norfolk has a delightful disposition. They are a true terrier - he loves to run, dig, and hunt. Training must be…
Norwegian Buhund
A member of the Spitz type breeds and conforming to many of the type's characteristics such as. They were initially bred…
Norwegian Elkhound
Norwegian Elkhounds and their predecessors have provided companionship and assistance to mankind for centuries, guarding…
Norwich Terrier
The Norwich Terrier is a working terrier, originally used to clear barns and stables of vermin all across the Norfolk…
Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever
The Toller is an ideal dog for an active family. He is a high-energy dog and needs regular off-lead exercise as well as…
Old English Sheepdog
The Old English Sheepdog is an intelligent playful breed. The dog's comical appearance sometimes distracts from its…
Otterhound
The Otterhound is a large scent hound, sometimes referred to as 'Woollies' due to their thick double coat. Although…
Papillon
The Papillon (French for butterfly) is a small toy breed. Its name is derived from its large butterfly shaped ears and…
Patterdale Terrier
The Patterdale is a type of Fell Terrier, originating in the Ullswater region of the Lake District. The breed is not…
Pharaoh Hound
These dogs have an elegant look, an independent yet playful personality and a quick thinking mind and they'll often…
Pinscher (German)
The German Pinscher originated in Germany as a herding breed and is included in the origins of many other breeds such as…
Pointer
Recall may be an issue, but there’s no denying the gentle, lovable — and slightly goofy — personality of the Pointer,…
Polish Lowland Sheepdog
The Polish Lowland Sheepdog is a cobby, strong, muscular dog with a long, harsh, shaggy-textured outer coat over a soft…
Pomeranian
The Pomeranian is a companion dog who loves spending time with people. Light-hearted and full of life, these intelligent…
Poodle (Miniature)
The Miniature Poodle is an incredibly versatile dog. He will love whatever walks you can give him, and will make his own…
Poodle (Standard)
Initially bred as a gundog, the Poodle has now found itself as the dog of choice for those seeking to inject a little…
Poodle (Toy)
Initially bred as a gundog, the Poodle has now found itself as the dog of choice for those seeking to inject a little…
Portuguese Water Dog
The Portuguese Water Dog has been in existence for centuries, but it's only in recent years that the breed has become…
Pug
Originating from China, the Pug was very popular with royalty and aristocracy. Nowadays they are popular pets as they…
Pyrenean Mountain Dog
The Pyrenean Mountain Dog's roots can be traced back to before the Bronze Age. They belong to the pastoral group and…
Pyrenean Sheepdog
The Pyrenean Sheepdog, also known as the Berger des Pyrenees, is seen in two varieties, the longhaired and the…
Rhodesian Ridgeback
The Rhodesian Ridgeback is an impressive looking, strong and muscular dog. Part of his original job was hunting lions…
Rottweiler
Rottweilers are brainy and need to be kept occupied. They will not cope being home alone all day - they need space,…
Rough Collie
The Rough Collie is easily recognised because of their elegant good looks. The Rough Collie was made famous by the…
Russian Black Terrier
Originally bred as a guard/police dog by the former Soviet Union, the Russian Black is a powerful and highly obedient…
SAMOYED
For the right owners, these dogs make wonderful companions. But be prepared to put the work in, says Julie Hill.
Saluki
The Saluki is an independent, elegant breed that dotes on human company and family life yet will escape given the first…
Samoyed
The Samoyed was originally a sled dog and reindeer herder, but has adapted to life as a pet relatively well.
Schipperke
A true hardy little dog, excellent watch dog and abiding companion. An excellent all rounder, inquisitive with a caring…
Schnauzer (Miniature)
The Miniature Schnauzer is a very distinctive breed, with a bearded muzzle and big bushy eyebrows. With his quirky looks…
Schnauzer (Standard)
A serious face yet full of fun! Good guard, getting on well with all family members.
Scottish Terrier
The Scottish Terrier is a great companion, good guard and nice size to take anywhere.
Sealyham Terrier
A loyal yet stubborn dog, one who needs to know who is boss or will take advantage!
Shar Pei
A strong, powerful dog, yet one who is gentle with children and full of character. Higher-than-average tendency for…
Shetland Sheepdog
Loyal, obedient, strong yet gentle. The Sheltie is a charming pet in the house - although it might try to herd the kids!
Shih Tzu
The Shih Tzu is a lovely companion dog with an independent personality and a slight distrust of strangers.
Siberian Husky
He is a primitive breed with strong chase instincts, and a lethal hunter. He will not get on with cats or other small…
Sloughi
The Sloughi is an incredibly loyal dog, so much so that they do not rehome easily. Although the hunting instinct is…
Smooth Collie
The smooth collie is a handsome breed with a striking silhouette and soft expression, with a short, weatherproof coat.…
Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier
A versatile dog, full of fun and character. An excellent dog for children, with a non-moulting coat and enough…
Spanish Water Dog
Those woolly cords and mop-style coat will get some attention! This versatile, family-friendly dog makes a great pet to…
St Bernard
The St Bernard is one of the most recognizable, biggest and gentlest dog breeds, not to mention one of the most…
Staffordshire Bull Terrier
An easy dog who makes an ideal pet for most owners; however, Staffords are strong and need a firm hand. His fighting…
Sussex Spaniel
An obedient guard dog in disguise! Given the right socialization and training, they will fit well into any family, but…
Swedish Vallhund
A great all rounder who'll fit nicely into family life. Alert, playful and a good watchdog, the Vallhund is an easy dog…
Tibetan Mastiff
A guard dog through and through, although one that is easy-going and likes nothing more than a laid-back lifestyle!
Tibetan Spaniel
A determined, independent dog. Loyal to the family, but suspicious of strangers. A good watch dog and a great companion.
Tibetan Terrier
The Tibetan Terrier is lovely all round family dog. Loyal, alert, playful and a clown all in one! There are no 'terrier'…
Weimaraner
The 'grey ghost' is a versatile dog that can just about do anything it sets its mind on. Having said that, they are…
Welsh Corgi Cardigan
Devoted, loyal and capable of a good day's work. Originally bred for cattle driving by nipping at their heels -…
Welsh Corgi Pembroke
With his endearing fox-like face and extreme intelligence, the Corgi really does prove that the best things come in…
Welsh Springer Spaniel
A hard working gundog, but one who will make an excellent pet to the right family. Always wanting to please, very…
Welsh Terrier
The Welsh Terrier is a compact dog of charming character and a great companion for kids. Obedient, happy and cheerful,…
West Highland White Terrier
Confidant, alert and friendly, the Westie is a popular choice due to their friendly nature and size.
Whippet
Classified in the Hound group, the Whippet is an amicable companion and a solid worker. Loves running, loves a fireplace…
Yorkshire Terrier
One of the most recognisable of dog breeds, the Yorkshire Terrier rose from humble, working beginnings to become an icon…