Chihuahua

Breed Type: Toy

Weight: 6 lbs

Height: 6 to 9 inches

Coat type: Have both short haired and long haired coat.

Color: Available in all colors.

The smallest breed of dog in the world, Chihuahua is named after the state of Chihuahua in Mexico. The canine loves company and is happy being the center of a discussion. The dog is intelligent and responsive and can be trained a number of tricks. Chihuahuas are long lived and often live for 16 years. The breed has also become a part of a popular crossbreed in the United States in the form of Chihuachshund i.e. pairing of a Chihuahua and a Dachshund. Another unusual crossbreed is called the Chihueagle, a pairing of the Chihuahua and the Beagle. In the following lines, we have provided the history, appearance and personality of Chihuahua.

History
According to folklore and archeological records, Chihuahua seems to have originated from Mexico. The breed descended from the Techichi, a companion dog favoured by the Toltecs. Named after the Mexican State that borders Texas, Arizona, and New Mexico, Chihuahua was found in 1850 in old ruins near Casas Grandes. These were thought to be the ruins of the palace built by Emperor Montezuma I.

The initial Chihuahua was longhaired and mute and was considered sacred by the wealthy and clergy class. The modern breed of Chihuahua was developed by breeding it with miniaturized Chinese dogs. The tiny modern day Chihuahua has gone through many changes and become very popular since their discovery. Though the smooth coated variety is most recognized, the long-coat variety is increasing both in terms of number and popularity.

Appearance
Chihuahua has distinctive features, which makes it stand out even in the crowd of canines. The trademark feature is its triangular shaped ear that stands out erect. Chihuahua has an apple-shaped head with round, large, very dark eyes and a short muzzle. A tiny dog, it usually has a cobby (stout) body that is more in terms of length than height. Its tail is sickle-shaped curled over the back or to the side. During the first few years, the puppies have a soft spot or 'molera' on the top of the skull. However, with time and age, the canine gets into a robust built with a level back and legs that fall straight and square. The coat has either short hairs or long ones and is available in variety of colors including fawn, sand, chestnut, silver and steel blue, black & tan and bi-color.

Personality
This tiny cute dog breed is just adorable. Most loved by the kids, Chihuahua makes a great companion dog. Intelligent and oblivious to their size and capability, they are sometimes too brave. They can live well with other dogs and cats and serve as toys for smaller children. Generally speaking, they form close bonds with one person only. Chihuahua becomes intensely loyal and extremely attached to its owners. The canines should be well trained right from a tender age else they might get to dominant later. These dogs are eager to learn but usually people don't train them, as they are very small in size. While some may prove to be slightly difficult to train, the others are intelligent, learn quickly and respond well to proper, positive reinforcement training.

Bulldog

Breed Type: Non-sporting

Weight: 50 lbs for Males, 40 lbs for Females

Height: 12 to 15 inches

Bulldog, also known as the British bulldog, or English bulldog, is one of the strong, reliable, loving, loyal and brave breeds of dog. Tracing its roots back to England, the breed is often confused with the American and French versions, as all of them have a similar appearance. One of the most favorable characteristics of Bulldog is its adaptable nature that makes it extremely friendly and affable. Though they might look dangerous, bulldogs make loving and caring companions. To know more about the history, appearance and personality of Bulldogs, read through the following lines.

History
There is no definite information about the origin of Bulldogs as a breed of dogs. According to a theory, Bulldogs were bred in England as a cross between the mastiff and the pug, around 1568. In 1600s, the canines were used by the wagers for bullbaiting as well as bearbaiting, a gambling sport wherein trained bulldogs leapt at a bull lashed to a post, latched onto its snout and attempted to suffocate it. Apart from being used in the field of sports, Bulldog was also used as part of a city-wide roundup effort led by governor Richard Nicolls. Since wild bulls proved to be risky and unsafe, bulldogs were trained to grab hold of a bull.

The English bulldog was bred with the pug, thereby giving birth to a shorter and wider version of dog that had a brachycephalic skull. This is the sole reason why even though the bulldog looks tough; it cannot perform the tasks for which it was created initially. The Bulldog Club was one of the oldest single breed specialty clubs that was formed in 1878. Thirteen years later, in 1891, a competition was held between the two top bulldogs, Orry and Dockleaf, in order to know which of them could walk the farthest. While the former was more like the initial bulldogs with a lighter boned and athletic build, the latter was smaller and heavier just like the ones found today. Dockleaf emerged triumphant in the competition, thereby proving to be as fit and athletic as Orry.

Appearance
Characterized by a stout and sturdy body, Bulldogs mostly have a small but wide and compact stature, with a thick, massive head. While the head should be extremely broad, the cheeks should be one that falls to the sides of the eyes. Bulldogs have a short muzzle, with a broad black nose that has large nostrils. Its ears are small and thin, folded back in the form of a rose. The skin of the canine is one that falls in dense folds with a short smooth and tight fitting coat that is varies in red, fawn, brindle, pale yellow, washed-out red or white or even a combination of any the above. It has stocky legs that are set squarely at each corner of its compact, muscular body. Bulldogs usually have a docked tail that is usually carried high.

Personality
People usually get baffled by the look of the dog. However, you might be surprised to know that Bulldogs are the gentlest amongst all dogs. Vivacious, energetic and spirited, their energies slow down as they get older. Extremely affectionate and dependable, the animal is gentle when it comes to being with children. Nonetheless, Bulldog is courageous, bullheaded, determined and has excellent guarding abilities. It is not one among those who give up easily. An attention seeker, the canine loves getting noticed and adores all the love and affection. There are some English Bulldogs, who are obstinate and stubborn and require a strong owner. They gel well with family members as well as other pets.

Boxer

Breed Type: Working

Weight: 65 to 80 lbs for Males, 50 to 65 lbs for Females

Height: 22.5 to 25 inches for Males, 21 to 23.5 inches for Females

Coat type: Short and smooth coat.

One of the most popular breeds in the United States, Boxer is characterized as a stocky, medium-sized, short-haired dog, with a short and smooth coat. An active, athletic breed, the canines exhibit a friendly and cheerful disposition. Its name has emerged from the way the dog uses its front paws for just about everything. A Boxer uses its paws for almost everything - right from grabbing its toys to the food bowl. Its playful nature makes it extremely adorable and a perfect house companion. To know more about the history, appearance and personality of Boxer, browse through the following lines.

History
A part of the Molosser dog group, the breed came from Germany. In the late 1800s, a dog of Mastiff descent, Bullenbeisser was bred with the Bulldogs, of England. Used as a hunting dog for centuries, the Bullenbeisser hunted for bear, wild boar, and deer and held them until the hunters came. With the passage of times, the faster dogs were preferred for hunting purpose. During this time, smaller Bullenbeisser was bred in Brabant, in northern part of Belgium. Boxers are believed to be successor of the Brabanter Bullenbeisser. Year 1894 saw the stabilizing of the breed, thanks to Roberth, Konig, and Hopner, the three Germans, who decided to stabilize the breed and put it on exhibition at a dog show.

A year later, in 1895, the dog breed was first exhibited at St. Bernards in Munich. In 1896, Deutscher Boxer Club, the first Boxer Club was founded. In 1902, the club printed first ever printed publication of about Boxer. Eventually, in the late 19th century, the breed was introduced to other parts of Europe and United States. It was only after the two world wars that the breed became popular. The returning soldier took the canines along with them, introducing Boxers to a wider audience. The dog soon became as one of the most loved companion, show dog as well as a guard.

Appearance
Flaunting a compact and powerful body, Boxer has a square-built and muscular physique. Its extremely sleek and shiny tight coat is available in fawn, brindle, white and various shades of red, with white markings. Boxers usually have a lean and unwrinkled body which is in proportion to their head. The lower jaw of the canine extends beyond its upper one, curving in an upward direction. This is the reason that neither its teeth nor tongue is visible when the mouth is closed. The dog has a large, black nose with open nostrils and dark eyes. The neck of the Boxers is generally strong, muscular and round in shape, while the ears are mostly erect in triangular shape. Boxes have a docked tail that is usually carried high.

Personality
Extremely energetic and playful, Boxers make affable and friendly pets. The breed boasts of high level of intelligence and an eagerness to learn and to please. Though a boxer might be moody and stubborn at times, mostly it is a very happy, keen and alert dog. One of the distinctive characteristics of Boxers is its protective nature, as its bonds very closely with the family. However, this does not make the breed aggressive. Boxers exhibit a loyal and affectionate nature and are known for gelling well with children. The Boxer is a pleasant combination of playfulness, alertness, loyalty, affection, intelligence and amiability. Though the canine can be properly trained, it is important that the training should start early and the owner should be firm and consistent with it.

Bloodhound

Breed Type: Hounds

Weight: 90 to 110 lbs for Males, 80 to 100 lbs for Females

Height: 25 to 27 inches for Males, 23 to 25 inches for Females

Coat type: Short and smooth coat.

Known worldwide as a tracker, Bloodhounds have been used since times immemorial in rescue and criminal operations. They thrive on the hunt rather than the kill. Bloodhounds revel in tracking and have been used to hunt animals, criminals, runaway slaves, and lost children. Following a scent that is hours or days old or over long distances, bloodhounds have proven their worth as the archetypal trailing dog. Originating from St. Hubert Monastery in Belgium, the breed is also named as St. Hubert hound. To know more about the history, appearance and personality of Bloodhounds, browse through the following lines.

History
Turning back the pages of history, bloodhound was first bred in 1000 AD by monks at the St. Hubert Monastery in Belgium. The dogs were later brought to England the Normans and were later taken to the United States. Known as the Flemish Hound, the breed has its roots based in France, the home of many of the modern hound breeds. Many other breeds, such as the American Coonhounds, Swiss Jura Hounds, Brazilian Fila Brasileiro and Bavarian Mountain Hound trace their lineage back to this ancient scent tracker.

Most of the bloodhounds found today are in black and tan, or red. However, it was not the same in the Middle Ages. In those times, bloodhounds usually occurred in solid colors. The white variety of Bloodhound, which existed in medieval Europe, was given the name, Talbot Hound. Its genes and characteristics have been continuously found in other canines. Bloodhound excellent tracking skills have been found in other scenthounds as well.

Appearance
Weighing 33 to 50 kg, Bloodhound usually can stand to a height of about 58 to 69 cm at the withers. One of the most distinctive characteristics of this breed is its large skeletal structure, with most of the weight concentrated in their bones. The bones of the canine are too thick in comparison with the length. Bloodhounds have a coat texture that is typical to the scenthound variety - hard and composed of fur alone, with no admixture of hair.

One of the most peculiar features is its extraordinarily strong back in comparison to its size. Talking about facial structure, Bloodhounds have deep-set eyes and a long muzzle, with long and drooping ears. The loose-fitting skin around the face makes the dog exhibit a droopy and depressed expression. Black and tan, liver and tan, or red are the only colors bloodhounds is found in, though the primitive ones were also available in white

Personality
Bloodhounds are known for their affable, affectionate, even-tempered and gentle nature, making them excellent family pets. Their good natured can be proved with the fact that they would allow children clamber all over them, while lying on the floor. Attention seekers, the canine is extremely boisterous when young, determined and independent. However, their strong tracking instinct sometimes makes them difficult for obedience training. The larger breeds require constant supervision, when around small children because chances are that they might knock the little kid over with their bulk.

Bloodhound usually becomes extremely fond of its owner and loves everyone. While some are seen greeting wanted and unwanted visitors happily, the other might be too protective and would not allow anyone to come even in the vicinity. One of the positive qualities of bloodhounds is that they live in harmony with other dogs and household pets. A rarest quality of bloodhounds is that they can follow a trail that is over 100 hours old, thereby making them the most picked tracker for rescue and criminal searches.

Bearded Collie

Breed Type: Herding

Weight: 45 to 55 lbs

Height: 21 to 22 inches for Males, 20 to 21 inches for Females

Coat type: Straight, long and rough outer coat and dense and wooly undercoat.

Bearded Collie is one of the rare breeds of dogs. The name 'Bearded Collie' is derived from its mere appearance. It sports long, soft hair under the chin, which flows into the chest, giving it the appearance of a beard. People owning a Beardie consider themselves fortunate to have such a lovable pet, because the breed is not widespread. The lovable personality and attractive appearance of Bearded Collie makes it the perfect companion for singles and a great family dog. Get interesting information on the history, appearance and personality of Bearded Collie dog breed, in the following lines.

History
The Bearded Collie dog breed, descended from the Polish Sheepdog, was first introduced in Scotland in 1514, by a Polish captain who sold three of his dogs to a Scottish shepherd. The sold dogs were then bred with local herding stock. This gave way rise to the Bearded Collie breed of dogs. For many centuries, the breed assumed the position of a herder of both sheep and cattle in Scotland. It was fondly referred to as the 'Highland Sheepdog', the Highland Collie' 'Hairy Moved Collie' and sometimes, came to be popularly known as 'Beardie'. However, over the passing years, the breed disappeared. It was soon brought back to life through mating a pair, in 1944.

Appearance
The Bearded Collie is a medium-sized hairy dog. The body of the animal appears to be very heavy due to its long-haired coat. The hair under its chin gives the appearance of a beard, which adds to its appeal. Its eyes are wide set high on its head and in perfect sync with the color of its coat. The ears are positioned close to the head, while the tail is long and low. Born black, blue, brown or fawn in color, Bearded Collie the coat of the dog fades away as it grows older and ultimately, becomes light gray or cream in color. However, after becoming a fully matured dog, the coat regains its original dark color.

Personality
High-spirited, cheerful, clever, independent, sociable and active, Bearded Collie dog breed gets along well with children and other household pets and gets friendly with strangers too. The dog learns quickly. Its positive reinforcement and kindness helps the owner to train the dog without much of a hassle. It is agile, obedient and competitive in nature. It loves to perform tricks, which makes it the best bet for flaunting in a dog show. Bearded Collie exhibits good tracking skills too. Its enthusiasm to explore new things makes it very active. The male Bearded Collie tends to be bold and outgoing, while it's female counterpart is generally calm and submissive. Obedience training is highly recommended for this dog breed.

Basset Hound

Breed Type: Hounds

Weight: 40 to 60 lbs

Height: 14 inches

Coat type: Short, smooth and dense coat.

Basset Hound is a dog breed, native to France. Being hunting dogs, they are the best bet for tracking animals such as rabbit and dear. Basset Hounds serve as a great household pet because of their owner-friendly traits like loyalty. Moreover, they are very easy to be with and serve as lovable companions for the owner. The basic characteristics of barking and howling make the Basset Hounds perfect alarm dogs. However, they are too soft to assume the position of guard for your home. With a huge body and short legs, Basset Hounds are known for their excellent tracking ability, which is second to Blood Hounds. Go through the article check out interesting information about the history, appearance and personality of Basset Hound dog breed.

History
Basset Hounds were used as hunting dogs throughout Europe, several centuries ago. They were reared by monks, who preferred to rear a slow dog that could be followed on foot. The Basset Hound proved to be the excellent slow-tracker of rabbit and deer. The breed was brought to England in the 1860s and traveled to America, later on. Basset Hounds made their first appearance in a dog show in 1884, in Westminster. After Basset Hound Club of America started its operations in 1935, the dog breed evolved as a resourceful hunter, tracker and companion.

Appearance
Basset Hounds are characterized by deep muzzle, rounded skull, medium-sized head and black, powerful nose. The long, downward ears of the breed are silky to touch and are positioned low. They have deep chest and narrow shoulders. The loose skin found on their head makes wrinkles, while the loose skin positioned in the areas of the skull and back, helps them to retain the scent of an object, while tracking it down. They have thick frame and sturdy legs, while the feet are very heavy. With straight back, their highly-positioned tapered tail erects when walking. Their short-dense coat is resistant to weather and can be found in many colors, among which the most common is white with brown patterns.

Personality
Basset hounds are very easygoing and affectionate to their owners. They are active and amusing. They are mellow, at the same time, stubborn. The positive trait of obedience makes them easy to be trained. Once disciplined, they would remain well-mannered for ever. Excellent all-round playmates, Basset Hounds are ideal pets for hanging out around the house and romp through the fields. The cute, adorable Basset Hounds are the perfect household pets for families, city-dwellers and singles. Clumsy around the house though, Basset Hounds are very agile while in the field. The dog would howl or bark to indicate that it wants something or to suggest that they think something is wrong.

Australian Terrier

Breed Type: Terrier 

Weight: 12 to 14 lbs

Height: 10 to 11 inches

Coat type: Medium length, straight and hard hair.

A small animal with short legs, the dog belonging to the Australian Terrier breed could catch anyone's immediate attention. Developed in Australia, dogs of the breed are highly dependable for their loyalty, sturdiness and unbound charm. It is one of the best pets and a good companion as well. They can provide you the much desired companion, if they are nourished in a loving and caring atmosphere. Go through the following lines to get complete information on the history, appearance and personality of Australian Terrier.

History
Historical records suggests that the Australian Terrier, are the descendents of the rough coated type terriers, who were imported from Great Britain to Australia in the beginning of 1800s. The ancestors of the Australian Terrier were grown to eradicate mice and rats. Another study shows that the breed shares its ancestry with the Cairn Terrier, Shorthaired Skye Terrier and the Dandie Dinmont Terrier. Yorkshire Terriers and Irish Terriers were also cross bred to give rise to Australian Terrier.

The breeding of Australian Terrier began in Tasmania in 1820. The breed gained official recognition, when its first breed club was established in 1887. Originally called 'the rough coated terrier', it came to be known as Australian Terrier in 1892. the breed marked its appearance in a dog show, for the first time, in 1903 in Melbourne. Over the passing years, the breed has gained recognition in a number of developed countries.

Appearance
Australian Terrier is characterized by small stature, which is low-set and sturdy. They are double-coat breed, the outer coat being straight, harsh and rough in texture and the inner coat is dense, short and soft. The weatherproof coat is longer on the body than the hair on the tail, rear legs and feet. The protective ruff of softer hair at the neck gives the appearance of an apron, when blended. The coat of the breed of dog is very attractive. It is found in dark blue, silvery blue (with tan markings on the legs and head), solid red and sandy colored coat.

Personality
The bold, fearless and charming Australian Terrier is truly an owner's delight. It exhibits the qualities of alertness and high level of confidence. Dogs categorized into this breed are often proud and hardy. They adapt easily to varying lifestyles and hence, make excellent companions. They are extremely loyal and affectionate to their owner. They are regarded some of the best household pets. You may adopt an Australian Terrier for chasing small cat as well as small outdoor animals like rabbit and squirrel. Although they are wary of strangers, they can at times get very aggressive if provoked. Like any other dog, Australian Terrier requires motivation, praise, firmness and fairness from the owner's side.