Dog Breed Info: AF - CA - Healthy Dog Experts

The Affenpinscher is a small, terrier like dog famous for it's monkey like expression. Coloring can be black, silver, gray, black and tan, red or beige, dogs that have a coat color other than black may still have a black mask. Despite Affenpinscher's facetious personality, it's gait is notably confident and serious. This little devil is bold, scrappy and tenacious; it never shies away from action or a fight and is quite brave for it's size. The Affenpinscher is also fairly sociable and gets along well with children and other pets, which sets it apart from your typical Terrier. The Affenpinscher is the perfect pet for anyone that likes to laugh and wants a dog that will always find a way to brighten your day. Generally, the dog can fulfill its exercise needs with a short walk or an indoor game, but it needs exercise everyday or it will become hyperactive and obonxious. This breed absolutely cannot live outside. Occasionally, one will see patellar luxation, breathing problems and corneal ulcers in the breed.

The Afghan Hound is one of the most regal and aristocratic of all the canine breeds. The tail is long and curved, and like the majority of the body, covered with long, silky hair. The coat can be most any color, from dark shades like black to pale, shades like creamy beige. White markings are not desireable, but variuos color combinations are. The breed is not to affectionate, and will generally only warm to a small group of people. They are herders and hunters by nature, and require a good deal of physical exercise. Afghan Hounds are gentle, and not overly hyper when greeting people. They make fantastic family pets, and are ideal for people who desire an active yet independent dog that is not to boisterous. The afghan Hound is not suited for enclosed living. It requires regular exercise to maintain its optimal health and fitness. The animal should be walked on a daily basis for no less than an hour. The Afghan Hound is one of the healthier breeds, and infirmities are rare. The dog is somewhat prone to canine hip dysplasia, cataracts and necrotic myelopathy.

The Airedale Terrier is among the largest of the terriers, the airedale has a flat head and a very wired and hard coat. Coloring is typically in various shades of tan, with darker markings on the saddle and upper parts of the dog, white markings on the chest are also occasionally seen. The Airedale is often considered the most flexible of the terriers, being able to herd and retrieve and hunt, in addition to the traditional terrier calling of exterminating vermin. The dog is exceptionally intelligent and can pick up on new tricks with suprising speed. The dog is a devoted family member, and can actually provide a suprisingly high level of protection. The Airedale Terrier is a highly active breed and needs a chance to exercise everyday. This breed can live outdoors in temperate climates. The Airedale Terrier is a very healthy breed with few inherited diseases. Some things to watch out for include canine hip dysplasia, gastric torsion and hypothyroidism.

The Akita is a large powerful and heavy boned dog, the head is large and smooth with powerful jaws and muzzle, with ears that stand straight up. It is well muscled and designed for maximum efficiency in hunting game in deep snow. The coat can be any color including pinto, white or brindled with markings clear and well balanced. The Akita is a very devoted dog to its family members and tends to befriend strangers and other dogs. The majority of this dog's effection is squarely focused on its family members. The Akita is gentle and even motherly with children and may be protected of them. With proper exercise everyday, the Akita can be a calm and well mannered house pet free from hyperactive behavior. The Akita enjoys cold weather and can live outdoors in fairly cool climates, but on hot days you must keep an Akita hydrated to prevent heat exhaustion or heat stroke. Health concerns for the Akita include progressive retinal atrophy, canine hip dysplasia, osteosarcoma, hydrothyroidism, lymphosarcoma, gastric torsion and pemphigus.

The Alaskan Malamute exels at hauling heavy loads over great distances in brutal conditions, and its construction is consistent with such use. The long body is powerful and well muscled throughout, heavy boned with a straight back and very strong legs, their large feet also help the dog to plod through snow. The under coat is dense and wooly. The coat can be solid white, but it is more common for white to be the predominant color with various shadings of gray, black, sable or red. The face generally has a white mask or blaze. The Alaskan Malamute is distinctly wolf-like in appearance. As a dog that was bred to hunt and pull in packs, the Alaskan Malamute can be aggressive towards strange dogs. The breed tends to be docile in the home, and is a loyal and loving family member. This dog needs vigorous exercise every day to expend its vast reserves of energy. Running, hauling or playing should be sufficient. Insufficient exercise can lead to undesirable habits such as constant howling, digging or destructiveness. Make sure this dog is given plenty of water and shelter on hot days. Health concerns for the Alaskan malamute include canine hip dysplasia, cataracts, hypothyroidism and chondrodysplasia.

The American Eskimo Dog is a member of the Spitz family. Like most Spitz breeds, the American Eskimo Dog has pointed ears and an impressive coat. Like the Poodle this breed comes in three distinct sizes: standard, miniature and toy. Because of its quick wit and desire to please, the American Eskimo Dog is relatively easy to train and does well in competitive obedience. This dog will unfailingly let out a warning bark when ever a stranger approaches its territory, and is therefore an able watch dog. With regard to exercise, this dog will do well with a daily walk and can also benefit from playing or running around in an enclosed yard. Exercise requirements vary by size, with the standard needing a fairly strenous workout everyday and the toy, just a couple of laps around the house will be sufficient. the American Eskimo Dog does not get sick vey often. Occasionally, one will see canine hip dysplasia, petellar luxation and progressive retinal atrophy in the breed.

The American foxhound is quick and agile and is the product of a centuries long effort to produce the perfect fox hunting breed. This dog has a lean strong build and is covered by a solid, tight coat that may be of any color. The head is relatively long and the eyes have a gentle soft look. The American foxhound is taller and lighter than its British cousin, and is thus a bit faster and a more agile. The American Foxhound is a true hunting dog and is happiest in the field and on the trail. This breed hunts with a passion of a warrior, but is gentle, affectionate and great with children in the home, it also tends to be good with other pets. This dog will bay and howl and city living is not recommended. The American Foxhound was bred to be a fast hunter with great endurance, therefore this breed requires a substantial amount of exercise to be fit in both a physical and mental sense. When accompanied by another sociable dog, the American Foxhound does well living outside, but the dog should never be made to feel lonely and generally prefers to sleep inside with its family. The American Foxhound is your typical healthy hound and is not known to have any hereditary illnesses. Thrombopathy is very rarely seen in the breed.

American Staffordshire Terrier note: the breed recognized by the AKC as the American Staffordshire Terrier is very similar in appearance to the breed recognized by the UKC as the American Pit Bull Terrier, though the American Staffordshire is generally slightly larger. Stocky and muscular, the American Staffordshire Terrier is one of the breeds commonly refered to as the Pit Bull. This dog is of unequaled courage and power for its size. The head is of medium length and broad and highly developed cheek muscles, the dogs expression is alert and knowing. The body is thoroughly muscled with the back short and sloping slightly towards the rear. Coloring can be any solid or partial color. Perhaps no other breed in the world has a reputation as undeserved as does the American Staffordshire Terrier, or Pit Bull as it is often called. Many states and counties have placed restrictions on ownership of the breed in there jurisdiction. This dog is intelligent and very aggressive towards other dogs and other pets, but its natural disposition is actually very docile and friendly, even towards strangers. The most defining characteristic of this breed is its undying devotion to its family and its utter need to be appreciated by its master. The American Staffordshire Terrier needs a good deal of exercise, which can be accomplished with a daily walk or game in the backyard or park, they are easy to train, but take special care to discourage any aggressive tendencies in your dog during puppyhood. This dog can live outside in temperate climates, but its proper mental development virtually demands that it be allowed to live inside with its family. Known health issues in the breed include canine hip dysplasia, progressive retinal atrophy, cerebellar ataxia, hypothyroidism and heart disease.

The American Water Spaniel is a dog bred to hunt in any environment. Its medium size, muscular body and curly waterproof coat contribute to its abilities as an all around hunting dog. The breed is dense in both muscle and bone, the face carrying the expression of alertness and intelligence. The coat is either of liver, brown or dark chocolate with possible white spots on their toes or chest. This breed is highly sensitive, so obedience training should be done with a calm hand. If harshly disiplined this dog could snap defensively, despite this, this breed is generally very good with children and is a freindly, energetic and loving companion.The American Spaniel needs plenty of physical and mental exercise everyday. This dog does best in doors with access to a yard for play. Bathe the animal only when necessary, as shampoos tend to remove the coats natural oils and dry out the skin. Mital valve disease is a major health concern in this breed; patent ductus arteriosus, pulmonic stenosis and canine hip dysplasia are also sometimes seen.

The Anatolian Shepherd's appearance clearly reflects its vocation as a guardian; the breed is large and catagorized as giant. They are strong and fast. The Anatolian Shepherd has an intelligent expression. The muzzle has a sturdy strong like appearance and the body is powerful. The coat can be of any color, but fawn with a black mask is most common. This breed is an observant, intelligent and calm and ready to protect as what it perseives as its flock and is bred for livestock protection. The Anatloian Shepherd is naturally territorial and can serve as a courageous guardian. These dogs may act preserved in front of strangers or in unfimiliar places. Proper obedience training from a young age is vital, since this will determine whether your Anatolian Shepherd will become a pleasant and docile companion or an uncontrolable nightmare. This dog is recommended for exprienced dog owners. The Anatolian Shepherd's nomadic root's have an instilled need for travel so this breed needs at least a long walk everyday or a long run. This dog sheds twice a year and during this time it should be brushed regularly. The Anatolian Shepherd is a very serious working dog and is unlikely to do well in enclosed setting without a yard This dog is suseptable to canine hip dysplasia and entropion.

The Australian Cattle Dog is a medium sized dog with a smooth, flat coat texture, the coloring is either blue or red speckle. The muzzle is medium in length and neither pointed or cheeky. The body is strong and muscular and displays alertness and intelligence. Because these dogs were bred to herd they are energetic and enthusiastic. They are loyal loving protectors and need a lot of fresh air and exercise. Australian Cattle Dogs can be great with children, as long as they are introduced to children at an early age. They will often nip at the heels of little ones because it is their herding instinct that is inbedded within them. The Australian Cattle Dog needs wide open spaces in which to run and is definetly a dog that will not do well living in confined spaces. Their coat is highly waterproof and only needs periodic brushing. Known health issues include hip dysplasia, osteochondritis dissecans, deafness, progressive retinal atrophy, cataracts and elbow dysplasia

The Australian Shepherd, also known as the Aussie, is a well proportioned dog that can come in a variety of colors including black, blue-merle, red and red-merle. The tail is naturally very short (usually less than four inches). The Australian Shepherd is an extremely intelligent breed that is also very active. This breeds intelligence usually makes for a quick learner that is easy to train and eager to please. Australian Shepherd's are generally good with other animals, very friendly and affection towards children and family. Without proper training the Australian Shepherd may instinctively nip at the heels of small children or unfimiliar people and it may run and bark excessively. This breed can make a good watch dog and is considered to provide a high level of protection. The Australian Shepherd was bred as a herding animal and needs lots of exercise on a daily basis. Walks will not be adequate-this breed needs to roam freely in a big yard or a field Without sufficient attention and exercise, this breed can become very hyperactive and bark excessively. The Australian Shepherd is physically capable of living outdoors but this is strongly discouraged, as it will stunt the dog's mental development. This breed is suseptable to cataracts, and in very rare cases, Collie eye anomaly The most common health problems in the breed are canine hip dysplasia, cataracts, epilepsy, iris coloboma and autoimmune problems such as allergies and hypothyroidism, MDR1 (multi drug reactivity) sensitivity is common in the breed and can result in death for some dogs, if certain drugs are given to them.

The Australian Terrier is a small medium-boned dog that is significantly longer than it is tall. The breeds coat is tan, sandy, blue or red. This dog has black or dark brown eyes that carries an intelligent expression. Although instinctively aggressive toward vermin and small rodents, the Australian Terrier is generally a loving and affectionate companion that is good with children. This breed is a very courageous, natural watchdog that is also obedient when well trained. The Australian Terrier needs a good bit of exercise every day, if not it will become bored and desructive, the dogs most favorite type of exercise is playing around. The long hairs growing between or in front of the eyes should be plucked to avoid potential irritation, and any hairs extending past the outer edges of the ears. Hereditary illness in the Australian Terrier is minimal, though occasionally one will see diabetes, petellar luxation and Legg-Perthes in the breed.

The Basenji is a relatively small, short-haired hunting dog native to Africa. this dog sports a light build, short back and long legs. The Basenji body type is balanced and smoothly muscled. Color and markings can vary and include chestnut, black, brindle or tri-color. The unique feature about this dog is they cannot bark, it can make sounds but barking is not one of them. Basenji's are described as intelligent, watchful and fairly easy to housebreak. They require a lot of exercise such as playing, running or long walks. Sometimes they can be rather suspicious towards people and animals they dont know. Basenji's have catlike mannerisms. Basenji's make great family pets. Ideally, the dog should live indoors and have access to a yard in which it can run and play. Health concern include fanconi syndrome, progressive retinal atrophy and Basenji enteropathy. Other problems sometimes seen in this breed include pyruvate kinase deficiency, persistent pupillary membrane, hypothyroidism and umbilical hemia.

The Basset Hound is a short-legged, strong boned dog bred to track and hunt. The head is of medium width, the skin on the head is loose and floppy. The muzzle is deep, strong and not at all sniped. The coat texture is short-haired and smooth and can vary in color, shades of white, black and brown are common for Basset Hound. The dog is heavier in bone than any other breed of its size. The Basset Hound is a gentle and devoted dog that is ideal for households with children. Because they have a penchant for following scent, they should be kept in a fenced yard and on a leash when being walked. Basset Hounds need regular exercise but nothing too strenuous. Reaccuring health problems in this breed include hip and elbow dysplasia, glaucoma, Von Willebrand's disease, gastric torsion, entropion, ectropion, osteochondritis dissecans and thrombopathy. Petellar luxation can also occur in this breed.

The Beagle is a small hound bred for hunting rabbit and hare. The head is somewhat lengthy and is domed at the top. Their eyes are large and set apart with a soft, pleading expression that is common to most hounds. The shoulders and chest are broad and muscular, coloring can be any true hound color. The Beagle is extremely friendly and gentle, which make it an ideal dog to have as a pet for your children as they are loving, tolerant and playful. The beagle prefers to stay indoors but also needs a yard to roam and play around in for exercise in addition to daily walks. The Beagle does not like to be left alone, so you might want to get another pet to accompany it when your away. Beagles were bred to have a strong, melidious barking howl for hunting purposes, a characteristic that may disturb your neighbors. Major health concerns for Beagles are intervertebral disk disease, canine hip dysplasia, minor concerns include glaucoma, epilepsy, CPRA, hypothyroidism, petellar luxation, chondrodysplasia, distichasis and KCS.

The Bearded Collie is a medium sized working dog with alot of strength and hardiness. Their color depending on the tone of the coat , framed with the arched brows that blend into the coat. The expression is soft affectionate and intelligent. Color can be fawn, brown, black or blue with possible white markings. Bearded Collies are energetic, and very smart. They require a great deal of physical activity and are quite boisterous, especially when young. If a bearded Collie is not exercised enough or socialized properly it can become destructive, but the average Bearded Collie is affectionate and friendly with children and adults. The dog is suited better for cooler climates, but manages fairly well in temperate to warmer climates as well. This breed is a natural athlete which needs plenty of exercise every day. The Bearded Collie is a fairly healthy dog, but occasionally one will see epilepsy, colonic disease, canine hip dysplasia or pemphigus in the breed.

The Beauceron is a large French herding dog that is strong and noble. The eyes are oval shaped and horizontal, with an expression of alertness and confidence, the well muscled neck leads to a strong straight back. Coloring can be either black and tan or gray or black and tan. The beauceron is a faithful, fearless and an extremely protective breed, even from puppyhood. The Beauceron is extremely intelligent and is willing and able to learn. Obedience training is essential as this powerful dog can become domineering if not properly handled. The Beauceron can be good with children if it is raised with them and taught how to be gentle. Its instincts may lead him to initially herd and nip at heels during play. This breed requires a great deal of exercise both mental and physical, and it likes to perform tasks. The Beauceron will get bored, destructive, and overweight, frequent outdoor play sessions are recommended for this breed. Health problems are rare, but canine hip dysplasia and gastric torsion are occasionally seen in the breed.

The Bedlington Terrier is a graceful medium sized dog of good proportion. The head is rounded yet narrow, with a short skull and a long jaw. On top of the head is a thick topknot which is lighter in shade than the rest of the coat. The expression is one of courage and energy. The hind legs are a little bit longer than the front legs, slightly bent at the pasterms. The coat is quite distinctive, not wiry, yet not soft, with a slight curl. The coat color can vary and include sandy, silver, blue, blue and tan, sandy and tan and liver and tan. Bedlington Terriers are playful and affectionate and are ideal for households with children. They are loyal and quite friendly even with strangers. The Bedlington Terrier makes a great indoor dog provided it gets a chance to exercise. People with allergies often choose the Bedlington Terrier because of its hypo-allergenic coat qualities. If not given proper exercise this breed will become bored and destructive. A daily walk will do the trick. Health problems in this breed include copper toxicosis, distichiasis and renal cortical hypo-plasia.

The Belgian Malinois is a dog of medium size that is fawn to mahogany in color with a black mask and a black tipped fur. The Malinois is similar to the German Shepherd, but there are several differences between the two breeds. These beautiful, well proportioned dogs sport a chisel and refined head with a triangular shaped ears. The Belgian Malinois is highly energetic and were born to work. Their personality can range from friendly to reserved with people and animals they dont know. These dogs are very protective of their property and owners, but not unneccessarily aggressive. This breed thrives in an enviornment where tasks must be performed and without anything to do the dog can become bored or even depressed. This dog requires alot of exercise and activities. The Malinois can be great with children, provided it is introduced to them as puppies. The most important aspect in caring for a Belgian Malinois is providing the dog with plenty of exercise and brain activities. These dogs are happiest when they have someting to do. This breed is capable of living outdoors in temperate climates, but is much happier living inside with its family with access to a yard. Though generally a very healthy breed, it is occasionally known to be afflicted with canine hip and elbow dysplasia.

The Belgian Sheepdog is a muscular and sturdy medium-sized dog with a well proportioned body. The undercoat is thick and dense, although its density can depend on the climate in which the dog lives. Coloring is almost always pure black, although on some Belgian Sheepdogs there will be small areas of white on the forechest, toes, muzzle or chin. The eyes are dark brown in color and the expression is one of intelligence and curiosity. Belgian Sheepdogs are protective and territorial dogs that should be socialized frequently and from a young age. They make great family pets and are appropriate for families with children as long as they are raised with children from puppyhood You will find that the Belgian Sheepdog is loyal and an ideal watchdog as well as a playful and energetic companion. This breed needs lots of love and attention and should not be confined to a kennel for long periods of time. It is important to work with your Belgian Sheepdog daily, as this breed thrives on interaction and is always ready to please his master. Because of its abundant coat, the Belgian Sheepdog requires attentive grooming, you will need to brush the coat thoroughly each day The Belgian Sheepdog is a notably healthy breed, and health problems are rare. The dog is somewhat prone to seizures, skin disorders, allergies, hypothyroidism, canine, hip dysplasia, progressive retinal atrophy and hemangiosarcoma.

The Belgian Tervuren is a medium-sized dog that is strong, square and well proportioned. The head is long without being overly so and features dark brown eyes, the expression is one of alertness, curiosity and intelligence. Body color ranges from fawn to mohagony with black tipping. This breed is energetic and highly alert though somewhat independent by nature this dog is easy to train. It is crucial to socialize this breed from puppyhood to prevent shyness or aggression.This breed is a herding dog and may nip at the heels of children or other pets. You will find that this breed is a loyal and protective pet and is ideal as a family watchdog. The Belgian Tervuren is most content when it has a task to do, so it is important to work with your dog daily. This breed is a highly active dog and requires regular vigorous exercise. Allow your dog to run free in a park or field or take it for a long jog every day. Health concerns are seizures canine hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, allergies hypothyroidism and progressive retinal atrophy.

The Bernese Mountain Dog is a large beautifully colored working dog, its head is broad and flat with a gentle furrow and distinct stop. The chest is deep and well-muscled and the back firm and wide. Coloring, is always tri-colored, with jet black ground and symetrical of rust and white. The Bernese Mountain Dog is a fantastic pet for families with children. These gentle giants adore children and are protective, loving and gentle. They are loyal and tend to stay that way their whole life. They are intelligent and hardworking, but also boisterous and energetic.They enjoy being around people and cannot be left alone for long periods of time. These dogs are sensitive in nature and need gentle guidance rather than sharp or harsh correction. This breed is a working breed and as such it requires a good deal of exercise. The dog enjoys long walks and pulling things. This dog should not be made to sleep outside, since closeness to its family is so important to its mental development, most definately the dog should sleep indoors and have easy access to a yard. This breed is suseptable to canine hip dysplasia, gastric torsion, mast celltumor, entropion, ectropion, cataracts and subvalvular aortic stenosis.

The Bichon Frise is a small stocky dog of well-balanced proportions.The eyes are dark brown or even black in color, with a curious yet soft expression. Surrounding the eyes are dark brown or black skin known as halos which serve to accentuate them. Coat color is always white, yet can take on a slight tone of cream apricot or buff in certain areas. The bichon Frise, unlike many other small dog breeds is not yappy by nature. They adore the company of humans and make fantastic family pets. The bichon Frise is very smart and affectionate and energetic. Because this breed is so sociable, they should not be left alone for long peroids of time. They are great with kids and other family pets and excel at obedience training, though not much of a guard dog. These dogs may require a bit of care but they are ideal for allergy sufferers, and they shed very little if at all. Bichon's require a moderate amount of exercise including a daily walk, and make very good indoor dogs. The dog sometimes suffers from petellar luxation, Cushing allergies, cataracts and canine hip dysplasia.

The Black and Tan Coonhound is a medium sized powerful hunting dog. It has a large oval head with low set ears, smooth skin over its face and round hazel to dark brown eyes. Its expression is eager, friendly and alert and it has a scissor bite, its muscular hindquarters are supported by strong hind legs that extend back from under the body. Its dense, short coat is ink black with tan markings, over the eyes, on the sides of the muzzle, chest and legs. The Black and Tan Coonhound is an intelligent and companion. Its friendly and out going and generally gets along with other dogs. It may be reserved around strangers but is rarely aggressive. The hunting instinct is strong in this breed. If left alone for to long it may bay or howl, beware of drool. The Black and Tan coonhound was bred for big spaces and should not live in enclosed places. It needs at least a large yard and daily vigorous exercise, preferably on very long runs. Bred to withstand a wide range of climates, this breed will do fine outdoors be careful not to overfeed this breed. The Coonhound is vulnerable to canine hip dysplasia, hypothyroidism, gastric torsion and ectropion.

The Black Russian Terrier is a breed of dog developed originally as a guard dog and police dog. It is rare outside its native country and its just starting to be recognized elsewhere. This breed gives the impression of great strength, athleticism and courage. The coat is low shedding and the color is black or black with gray hairs. The brave observant and highly affectionate Black Russian Terrier wants and needs close human contact. The dog has a strong protective instinct, and is suspicious of strangers and quick to protect its owner. Even as an adult this dog loves children, though females are more likely to play with them, while males cannot live with other dominate dogs, should be trained when young for optimal obedience. The Black Russian Terrier is very curious and intelligent and will learn quickly. House breaking is usually easy and this breed does not need to be trained to walk with a leash. Bear in mind, however, that the superb memory of the breed makes it nearly impossible to retrain. This large breed appears more at home in large open spaces, but it can actually get along well in small living spaces such as apartments etc. provided it gets the proper exercise. The great need for human contact means that this dog should really live inside, as doing otherwise will stunt its mental development.Though the dog may prefer the couch, it should have about an hour of exercise each day. The Black Russian Terrier is vulnerable to canine hip and elbow dysplasia.

The Bloodhound is a member of the Sagaces canine group, which means it hunts via scent in groups. The diamond shaped eyes are very deep set, with the bottoms sunk down by heavy flews; color can be anywhere from yellow to deep brown and often depends on the coat of the dog. The coat is short and can be red, black and tan or liver and tan. The Bloodhound possesses the most acute sense of smell of any canine. The Bloodhound is gentle, affectionate and dignified. The breed is ideal for families with children. Always keep your Bloodhound on a leash when walking, as an interesting scent can cause the dog to run off at anytime. The Bloodhound will enthusiastically devour any task that involves tracking or scenting, and is easy to train in these areas. The Bloodhound is a moderately active breed and should be given the opportunity to exercise in a safe area every day. Health concerns for this breed include hip and elbow dysplasia, skin fold dermititis, ectropion, entropion, and gastric torsion. Hypothyroidism is also occasionally seen.

The Border Collie is a medium sized dog renowned for its unique herding techniques. The head is well proportioned, the eyes are wide set, medium in size, the color is typically brown but may be blue in merle dogs. The Border Collie's expression is intelligent and interested. The body is substantially muscular and facilitates graceful, fliud movement. Coloring can be just about anything, including solid, tricolor, bicolor, sable and merle. The Border Collie is an uncanningly intelligent dog with a natural inclination towards work and herding things in general, sheep, cars, or other animals. It is an alert, dilligent and highly energetic dog. This breed is also very responsive and easily trained. The dog has a good habit of remembering orders even when its master is out of sight, and requires minimal supervision when working. The Border Collie has a reputation for not getting along well with small animals. This dog is very protective of its family. If you cant give this dog a job to do, then at least make sure you can devote at least an hour of vigorous, exhausting exercise each day. The Border Collie can live outside in moderate climates, but definetly is much happier sleeping inside with its family. This breed is suseptable to canine hip dysplasia, and on rare occasions may develop diseases such as progressive retinal atrophy, CEA, seizures, lens luxation PDA, ODC and deafness.

The Border Terrier is an active dog of long legs and narrow shoulders and body. Its head is often described as otter-like with a flat broad skull. The body is athletically muscular and conveys speed and agility over brute force. Coloring is red, blue and tan grizzle and tan or wheaten. Long bred to work well together with other dogs. This dog does well in the company of strangers, dogs and cats and is particularly good with children. Rodents are another matter. This breed needs a good bit of exercise every day preferably in the form of a good long walk. The Border Collie has a respectable tolerance for both heat and cold, and can live outside in moderate climates. The Border Terrier lives a long life that is virtually free of trips to the vet, some may develop petellar luxation.

The Borzoi is a sleek, beautiful breed, whose appearance it resembles that of a Greyhound, the eyes are soft and intelligent. The chest is rather narrow, but the loins are extremely muscular. The coat colors are golden, white, tan or gray with black markings and can be solid or mixed. The Borzoi is a quiet, sweet, intelligent, independent and moderately an active dog. They are quite affectionate with people they know well. It is important to remember that it cannot understand harsh treatment or tolerate punishment and will be very unhappy if a raised voice is part of its daily life. The Borzoi is an amiable and gentle dog but is not great with children since it is not very playful and dislikes rough housing. For this breed to stay fit it needs plenty of exercise each and every day, it needs to run for at least a half an hour each day. This dog is recommended to be an indoor dog with access to a yard. The most common serious disease found in a Borzoi is Bloat (gastric torsion) which is common in deep chested breeds. It is recommended feeding the Borzoi on a platform in order to avoid Bloat. The less common diseases are cardiomyopathy, hypothyroidism and cardiac arythmia. Proper diet is the key in raising a Borzoi pup, and remember that the Borzoi breed is very sensitive to drugs.

The Boston Terrier is small and stately and has a number of features that adds to its rather unique appearance. The eyes are large dark and round, and give the dog a kind expression that exudes intelligence. The coat is short and smooth and is either black or brindle with white markings on the face, chest neck and forequarters. The Boston Terrier's gait is rhythmic, confident and graceful. More than anything else, this breed is suited for companionship, the Boston is sensitive, gentle, polite and quite. In certain respects, there appears to be a sharp divide within the breed: some bark excessively while others are nearly mute. They are happiest when they have another dog to hang out with. The Boston Terrier Needs exercise every day. A little game in the backyard or a nice walk would suffice. This breed does not do well in the sun. A fairly healthy breed, but suffers from petellar luxation, allergies, constricted nostrils, deafness and seizures.

The Bouvier Des Flandres is also known as the Belgian Cattle Dog, this breed is compact yet a muscular herding dog. The oval eyes are dark brown with black rims and give the dog a facial expression that is brave and alert. Coloring can be fawn, salt and pepper, gray, black or brindle. The Bouvier Des Flandres is a gentle and loving dog who is rather easy to train when handled properly. They make excellent watchdogs and are great with children. Because this breed is so protective over their families and territory, they can be quite wary of strangers. This breed needs alot of exercise every day, and its physical and mental health will suffer if it does not get it. They love long walks or jogs and will remain calm indoors if given a chance to expend some energy outdoors. Significant health issues for this breed include canine hip dysplasia, glaucoma, and elbow dysplasia and hypothyroidism is also occassionally seen.

The Boxer is a powerful, squarely built dog of medium size, easily recognized by its distinct muzzle and face. The dark eyes and its forehead is primarily responsible for giving the Boxer an intelligent and highly expressive visage. The Boxer's color is either brindle or fawn often with white markings, these markings can appear on the chest, legs, and feet and the face usually has a black mask. An exceedingly versatile dog, the Boxer is many things to many people and its difficult to explain its personality precisely. The Boxer is energetic, playful, intelligent and curious. This dog always tackles challenges with gusto and joy. This breed's personality is serious and deliberate, and harkens to the breed's working dog history. The Boxer is heroically brave and uncommonly devoted to its family. This breed is neither overly friendly with nor aggressive towards strangers, if the dog feels the master approves of them, it will take on an accepting and slightly guarded atitude toward that stranger. The Boxer is respectful of other pets and playful and protective with children. In order to stay happy and healthy, the Boxer needs physical and mental exercise every day. A challenging game in the park or a nice long jog are usually sufficient. The Boxer prefers to be indoors and does not do well in either hot nor cold climates, especially in the heat it might have difficulty breathing. Major health concerns for the Boxer is subvalvular aortic stenosis, boxer cardiomypathy and canine hip dysplasia. Other health concerns in the breed include colitis, low thyroid, corneal erosion and gastric torsion (Bloat).

The Briard is a strong powerful dog, bred for herding. The head is fairly long and moderate in width. The eyes are large, level and set far apart. They are either dark brown or black in color depending on the color of the coat. The expression is one of confidence and curiosity. The chest is well-muscled, strong and proportionate. Most all colors other than white are standard for this breed, including black, gray and tawny. The Briard is protective and watchful over its family members. Because of this, the dog can often be standoffish with strangers and should be introduced gently to new people and animals. This breed is gentle with children and enjoys their company. They are moderately difficult to train due to their independent nature, and possesses an excellent memory. Documented health problems in the breed include canine hip dysplasia, gastric torsion, prgressive retinal atrophy and heart problems.

The Brittany (Spaniel) is an athletic and sturdily built dog of medium size. The ears are short and triangular. The face is intelligent and expressive. The dogs coloring is typically orange and white or liver and white in clear or roan patterns, with some dogs displaying a tri-color pattern, freckles are also common. This breed is still commonly refered to as the Brittany Spaniel. The Brittany is qiuck and curious with an abundant love for running, hunting and playing. The dogs good nature and natural eagerness to please make it a great companion, but this breed needs a lot of exercise each and every day. It needs to run and roam in a field or a big opening. The Brittany is a natural socializer and gets along exceedingly well with other dogs and with children, though small children should never be left alone with a brittany because the dog's natural energetic play could cause the child accidental harm. The Brittany is a relatively easy dog to care for, and is especially well suited to damp or cold conditions. Health problems are rare, though the breed is suseptable to hip dysplasia, epilepsy and ear infections.

The Brussels Griffon is a short thick toy breed. Their prominant black eyes are set far apart, large and wide, with what has been described as almost a human like expression of intelligence and energy. The jaws are undershot, which means the lower incisors protrude over the upper teeth. Coat color for the Brussels Griffon can be black, red or black and tan. This breed is intelligent, affectionate and at times, stubborn. This breed makes an excellent companion because it always want to be where its family members are. They make great watchdogs and do not need a whole lot of exercise. This makes them a great choice for people who want a small indoor dog. Because the Brussels Griffon can be rather high strung they sre not recommended for house- holds with small children. Exercise requirements are minimal for this breed, all it needs is a little walk around the block every day. This dog is a very healthy breed and the only health problems are cataracts, distiasis and progressive retinal atrophy, canine hip dysplasia petellar luxation and weak bladder.

The Bull Terrier is strong and handsome, a dog of muscular symetry and a sweet disposition The head is long and deep, curving from the nose to the top of the skull. When viewed from the front, the head should resemble an oval. the eyes are close and deep set, small and triangular. The Bull Terrier's coat is short glossy and harsh to the hand,and the skin is tight throughout. Color is either sloid white with or without markings on the head or any color other than white (often brindle) with white markings on the head. The Bull Terrier is a friendly and gentlemenly dog of inquisitive and an imaginative temperment. Always up for a game or a joke and enjoys being around people. Consistent with its Terrier heritage, enjoys giving chase to small animals. Bull Terrier's are usually pretty good with other pets and strangers, especially when raised with them. Taking your Bull Terrier for a long walk or a romp in the park every day will prevent hyperactive behavior and promote good health and long life in the dog. Make sure your dogs mental and physical needs are met or you might come home and find your house a mess. The Bull Terrier can adapt to outdoor living in temperate climates, though it prefers living inside. Some white Bull Terrier's carry the Dalmation's deafness gene. other health issues in the breed include hereditary nephritis, cystic kidney disease, renal diplasia, SAS, mitral stenosis, dilated cardiomyopathy and allergies.

The Bulldog is a medium sized dog whose build suggests strength and vitality. It is a stocky dog with broad shoulders and a large short head. The color of the coat may be brindle, red, fawn, fallow or solid white. Don't let the Bulldog's scowling visage fool you because those sagging jowls can just be as easily be turned into a smile only a mother could love. The Bulldog is extraordinarily docile and gentle. Bulldog's are kind with children and cats and are sociable around strangers, strange dogs are another story. The Bulldog is quite playful, but it will often times need to be pushed into physical activity, as it is initially dormant and somewhat lazy. The Bulldog is an ideal pet for apartment living as it fairly inactive indoors. They have trouble cooling off in hot weather and chill easily so a moderate climate is ideal. The Bulldog notoriously lathargic and neither desires nor requires a lot of exercise. A short walk every day should be sufficient. Bulldogs may have trouble breathing in humid weather and often snore when sleeping. They do not like water, and generally cannot swim. Hereditary health problems are common in this breed and include canine hip dysplasia shoulder luxation, elonated soft palalte, internalized tail, stenotic nares, ventricular septal defect and KCS. Other less common concerns include petellar luxation, entropion, ectropion, distichiasis and demodicosis.

The Bullmastiff is a large, powerful breed with an alert and intelligent appearance. The dog has a muscular body covered with short hair. The tight color is red, brindle or fawn in color and the chest may have a small white marking. The Bullmastiff is a brave and courageous dog, whose quiet and docile demeanor is best suited to a mature and even tempered family. Bullmastiff's are very gentle and kind towards children. They tend not to be active or playful. This breed is neither friendly nor aggressive towards strangers but potentially aggressive towards strange dogs. The Bullmastiff can be a bit lathargic, so it is important for the owners to encourage activity (daily walks at a minimum) and monitor the dogs meal size. Without proper care this dog can put on alot of weight very quickly. Bullmastiff's are suseptable to canine hip and elbow dysplasia, gastric torsion entropion.

The Cairn Terrier is a gutsy, lively little terrier that has retained its shaggy and unkept look. The harsh weather resistant coat that can be any thing from cream, through red or gray to almost black or brindled, protects a soft dense undercoat. A distinguishing characteristic of the Cairn Terrier is that they frequently change colors throughout their lifetime. The Cairn Terrier's stature belies its big dog atitude, and this breed is just as comfortable in its owners lap as it is playing in the yard. Like most Terrier's the Cairn Terrier is stubborn, strong willed and likes to bark and loves to chase after rodents or small prey. Cairn Terrier's should be kept active and trim. They tend to become overweight. They require qiute a bit of exercise. A brisk long walk is ideal for this breed. All-and-all this dog is a very healthy breed.

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