The dog breed encyclopedia
Temperament, health, feeding, grooming: find the breed that suits your lifestyle, with practical advice on exercise, heat and apartment living.
All breeds
Affenpinscher
- Small
- 3–6 kg
- 12–15 yrs
A small dog with a monkey-like face and a shaggy coat, the Affenpinscher is funny, self-assured and devoted to its owners.
Afghan Hound
- Large
- 23–29 kg
- 12–14 yrs
With its long silky coat and aristocratic bearing, the Afghan Hound is a fast, independent and dignified hunter.
Aidi (Atlas Mountain Dog)
- Large
- 23–30 kg
- 10–13 yrs
A guardian from Morocco's Atlas Mountains, the Aidi is a watchful, sturdy and tireless protector, perfectly suited to the country's varied climate.
Airedale Terrier
- Large
- 20–30 kg
- 10–13 yrs
Nicknamed the 'King of Terriers', the Airedale is the largest of them all: intelligent, versatile, playful and protective.
Akita
- Large
- 30–45 kg
- 10–14 yrs
Japan's national dog, the Akita is dignified, calm and legendarily loyal, but independent and intolerant of other dogs.
Alaskan Malamute
- Large
- 34–43 kg
- 10–14 yrs
A powerful Arctic sled dog, the Malamute is affectionate and playful but very poorly suited to hot climates.
American Akita
- Large
- 32–59 kg
- 10–12 yrs
Heavier than the Japanese Akita, the American Akita is a powerful, calm and very loyal guardian for experienced owners only.
American Bully
- Medium – Large
- 20–55 kg
- 10–12 yrs
Very muscular but usually gentle with people, the American Bully is a recent breed that comes in several sizes, from Pocket to XL.
American Cocker Spaniel
- Small
- 11–14 kg
- 12–15 yrs
Smaller than the English Cocker and with a profuse coat, the American Cocker Spaniel is gentle, merry and very attached to its family.
American Foxhound
- Large
- 25–34 kg
- 11–13 yrs
Lighter and longer-legged than its English cousin, the American Foxhound is a gentle, tireless and independent scent hound.
American Pit Bull Terrier
- Medium
- 14–30 kg
- 12–14 yrs
Athletic, tenacious and very people-oriented, the American Pit Bull Terrier is a demanding dog for experienced owners who know the local regulations.
American Staffordshire Terrier
- Medium
- 18–32 kg
- 12–16 yrs
Muscular, brave and very affectionate with its family, the American Staffordshire Terrier needs a responsible owner and serious training.
Australian Cattle Dog
- Medium
- 15–22 kg
- 12–16 yrs
Tough, tireless and utterly loyal, the Australian Cattle Dog is a working dog built for heat and wide open spaces.
Australian Kelpie
- Medium
- 11–20 kg
- 12–15 yrs
A light, tireless herding dog, the Australian Kelpie can work for hours in the heat. It needs a real job.
Australian Shepherd
- Medium
- 16–32 kg
- 12–15 yrs
Clever, playful and tireless, the Australian Shepherd is a herding dog, often with odd-coloured eyes, ideal for very active families.
Australian Silky Terrier
- Toy
- 3.5–4.5 kg
- 12–15 yrs
Close to the Yorkie but slightly larger, the Silky Terrier is a small, silky-coated terrier that is lively, playful and affectionate.
Australian Terrier
- Small
- 6–7 kg
- 12–15 yrs
A sturdy little terrier with a generous ruff, the Australian Terrier is lively, loyal and well suited to warm climates.
Azawakh
- Large
- 15–25 kg
- 12–15 yrs
An extremely fine-boned sighthound from the Sahel, the Azawakh is a proud guard and hunting dog, devoted to its family and wary of strangers.
Barbet
- Large
- 17–28 kg
- 12–14 yrs
An ancient French water dog with a woolly coat and bushy beard, the Barbet is cheerful, sociable and sheds very little.
Basenji
- Small
- 9–11 kg
- 12–16 yrs
An African dog that hardly barks, the Basenji is elegant, cat-clean, curious and very independent.
Basset Artésien Normand
- Small
- 15–20 kg
- 12–14 yrs
An elegant long-eared French basset, the Basset Artésien Normand is gentle, affectionate and easy to live with, with an excellent nose.
Basset Hound
- Medium
- 20–30 kg
- 10–12 yrs
With its long ears and soulful look, the Basset Hound is a placid, affectionate dog with a remarkable nose.
Bavarian Mountain Scent Hound
- Medium
- 17–30 kg
- 10–14 yrs
Lighter than its Hanoverian cousin, the Bavarian Mountain Scent Hound is an agile, calm mountain tracker devoted to its owner.
Beagle
- Small
- 9–14 kg
- 12–15 yrs
Cheerful, sociable and led by its nose, the Beagle is an excellent family dog, but training takes patience.
Bearded Collie
- Medium
- 18–27 kg
- 12–14 yrs
Cheerful, bouncy and covered in a long coat, the Bearded Collie is a fun-loving Scottish herding dog, ideal for active families.
Beauceron
- Large
- 30–45 kg
- 10–12 yrs
A large black-and-tan French shepherd, the Beauceron is a powerful, loyal and protective dog that needs firm yet kind training.
Bedlington Terrier
- Medium
- 8–10.5 kg
- 12–15 yrs
With its lamb-like look, the Bedlington Terrier hides a fast hunter. Gentle and affectionate at home, it sheds very little.
Belgian Groenendael
- Large
- 20–30 kg
- 12–14 yrs
An elegant long-haired black Belgian Shepherd, the Groenendael is lively, sensitive and devoted to its family. It needs plenty of activity.
Belgian Malinois
- Large
- 20–30 kg
- 12–14 yrs
A tireless, highly intelligent athlete, the Malinois is the working dog par excellence. It thrives with an active, experienced owner.
Belgian Tervuren
- Large
- 20–30 kg
- 12–14 yrs
A long-haired, fawn Belgian Shepherd with black-tipped coat, the Tervuren combines elegance, intelligence and energy. It thrives with an active family.
Bernese Mountain Dog
- Large
- 35–55 kg
- 7–10 yrs
A handsome tricolour dog from the Swiss Alps, the Bernese is gentle, loyal and excellent with families, but copes very badly with heat.
Bichon Frise
- Small
- 3–6 kg
- 12–15 yrs
An always-cheerful ball of white fluff, the Bichon Frise is a gentle, sociable, easy-going companion that sheds very little.
Black and Tan Coonhound
- Large
- 29–50 kg
- 10–12 yrs
A large, long-eared American scent hound, the Black and Tan Coonhound is gentle and sociable, with a remarkable nose and voice.
Black Russian Terrier
- Giant
- 45–60 kg
- 10–12 yrs
A large, bearded black dog created in the Soviet Union, the Black Russian Terrier is a calm, confident guardian devoted to its family.
Bloodhound
- Large
- 40–54 kg
- 10–12 yrs
With the most famous nose in the dog world, the Bloodhound is a gentle, patient and determined tracker with heavily wrinkled skin.
Boerboel
- Giant
- 55–90 kg
- 9–11 yrs
A large, heat-hardy South African mastiff, the Boerboel is a powerful, calm farm guardian that is very protective of its family.
Bolognese
- Toy
- 2.5–4 kg
- 12–14 yrs
A small, all-white Italian bichon with a fluffy coat, the Bolognese is calm, affectionate and devoted to its owners.
Border Collie
- Medium
- 14–22 kg
- 12–15 yrs
Often considered the most trainable dog of all, the Border Collie is a tireless herding dog that needs a real job.
Border Terrier
- Small
- 5–7 kg
- 12–15 yrs
A hardy little terrier with an otter-like head, the Border Terrier is affectionate, sociable and easier to live with than many terriers.
Borzoi
- Large – Giant
- 27–48 kg
- 9–14 yrs
A large Russian sighthound with a silky, wavy coat, the Borzoi is elegant, calm at home and surprisingly fast at full stretch.
Boston Terrier
- Small
- 4.5–11.5 kg
- 11–13 yrs
Nicknamed the 'American gentleman' for its tuxedo coat, the Boston Terrier is cheerful, affectionate and easy to live with in the city.
Bouvier des Flandres
- Large
- 27–40 kg
- 10–12 yrs
A sturdy, bearded farm dog, the Bouvier des Flandres is calm, protective and deeply loyal to its family.
Boxer
- Large
- 25–32 kg
- 10–12 yrs
Playful, affectionate and full of energy, the Boxer is an excellent family dog, patient with children but very sensitive to heat.
Bracco Italiano
- Large
- 25–40 kg
- 10–12 yrs
An ancient Italian pointing dog with a noble look and long ears, the Bracco Italiano is gentle, biddable and very attached to its family.
Braque d'Auvergne
- Large
- 22–28 kg
- 12–14 yrs
A French pointing dog with a white coat ticked in black, the Braque d'Auvergne is gentle, sensitive and very attached to its owner.
Briard
- Large
- 25–40 kg
- 10–12 yrs
A large French shepherd with a long, goat-like coat, the Briard is a faithful, protective companion with plenty of character.
Brittany
- Medium
- 14–18 kg
- 12–14 yrs
The smallest French pointing dog is also one of the most popular: the Brittany is lively, affectionate and passionate about hunting.
Brussels Griffon
- Small
- 3.5–6 kg
- 12–15 yrs
A small Belgian dog with a wiry red coat and an almost human expression, the Brussels Griffon is lively, curious and devoted to its owner.
Bull Terrier
- Medium
- 20–35 kg
- 11–14 yrs
Recognisable by its egg-shaped head, the Bull Terrier is a muscular, playful clown devoted to its family, but stubborn.
Bulldog
- Medium
- 22–25 kg
- 8–10 yrs
Stocky, placid and very affectionate, the Bulldog is an endearing indoor companion, but extremely sensitive to heat.
Bullmastiff
- Large
- 41–59 kg
- 8–10 yrs
Powerful, calm and devoted, the Bullmastiff is a quiet guardian and an affectionate companion that needs early training.
Cairn Terrier
- Small
- 6–7.5 kg
- 12–15 yrs
A hardy, cheerful little Scottish terrier, the Cairn is curious, sturdy and affectionate, a good companion for active families.
Canaan Dog
- Medium
- 18–25 kg
- 12–15 yrs
A primitive-type dog from the Near East, the Canaan Dog is alert, intelligent and remarkably well suited to hot, dry climates.
Cane Corso
- Large
- 40–50 kg
- 9–12 yrs
An athletic, imposing Italian mastiff, the Cane Corso is a calm guardian deeply attached to its family, and it needs experienced handling.
Cardigan Welsh Corgi
- Small
- 11–17 kg
- 12–15 yrs
The long-tailed cousin of the Pembroke, the Cardigan Corgi is a sturdy little Welsh cattle dog, calmer and very loyal.
Catalan Sheepdog
- Medium
- 16–22 kg
- 12–14 yrs
A Spanish herding dog with a long, shaggy coat, the Catalan Sheepdog is intelligent, balanced and very close to its family.
Caucasian Shepherd Dog
- Giant
- 45–80 kg
- 10–12 yrs
A massive guardian with a thick coat, the Caucasian Shepherd is utterly loyal to its family and formidable towards intruders.
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
- Small
- 5–8 kg
- 9–14 yrs
Gentle, affectionate and always good-natured, the Cavalier King Charles is an ideal family companion, in a house or an apartment.
Central Asian Shepherd Dog
- Giant
- 40–80 kg
- 12–15 yrs
An ancient livestock guardian of the steppes, the Central Asian Shepherd is powerful, independent and highly protective, for experienced owners only.
Cesky Terrier
- Small
- 6–10 kg
- 12–15 yrs
A short-legged terrier with a silky grey coat, the Cesky is calmer than most terriers, gentle and easy to live with.
Chesapeake Bay Retriever
- Large
- 25–37 kg
- 10–13 yrs
A tough American retriever with an oily, wavy coat, the Chesapeake is brave, loyal and tireless in cold water.
Chihuahua
- Toy
- 1.5–3 kg
- 12–16 yrs
The world's smallest dog has a big personality: lively, loyal and brave, the Chihuahua is an ideal companion for city life.
Chinese Crested Dog
- Toy
- 2–5.5 kg
- 13–15 yrs
An elegant little dog, hairless or long-coated (Powder Puff), the Chinese Crested is affectionate, cheerful and devoted to its owners.
Chow Chow
- Medium
- 20–32 kg
- 9–12 yrs
With its lion-like mane and blue tongue, the Chow Chow is a dignified, calm and independent dog that is very sensitive to heat.
Cirneco dell'Etna
- Medium
- 8–12 kg
- 12–14 yrs
An elegant, hardy little Sicilian hunter, the Cirneco dell'Etna is lively, affectionate and perfectly suited to hot climates.
Clumber Spaniel
- Medium
- 25–39 kg
- 10–12 yrs
The heaviest of the spaniels, the Clumber is a calm, gentle and dignified dog that prefers leisurely walks to frantic running.
Coton de Tulear
- Small
- 3.5–6 kg
- 13–16 yrs
A small white dog with a coat as soft as cotton, the Coton de Tulear is cheerful, sociable and very attached to its family.
Czechoslovakian Wolfdog
- Large
- 20–35 kg
- 12–16 yrs
Bred from German Shepherds and Carpathian wolves, the Czechoslovakian Wolfdog is a tireless, fascinating dog for very experienced owners only.
Dachshund
- Toy – Small
- 3.5–9 kg
- 12–16 yrs
Long, low and full of confidence, the Dachshund is a brave hunter turned affectionate companion. It comes in three sizes and three coat types.
Dalmatian
- Large
- 24–32 kg
- 11–13 yrs
Famous for its white coat with black or liver spots, the Dalmatian is a tireless, cheerful athlete deeply attached to its family.
Dobermann
- Large
- 32–45 kg
- 10–12 yrs
Elegant, fast and highly intelligent, the Dobermann is a loyal guardian and a sensitive companion that needs activity and human company.
Dogo Argentino
- Large
- 35–45 kg
- 10–12 yrs
A powerful, tireless white athlete, the Dogo Argentino is a loyal, brave dog best suited to experienced owners.
Dogue de Bordeaux
- Giant
- 45–65 kg
- 5–8 yrs
A fawn French mastiff with a massive head, the Dogue de Bordeaux is a calm guardian deeply attached to its family.
Dutch Shepherd
- Large
- 22–32 kg
- 11–14 yrs
Recognisable by its brindle coat, the Dutch Shepherd is a versatile, hard-working dog with great stamina and a strong bond with its owner.
English Cocker Spaniel
- Medium
- 13–15 kg
- 12–14 yrs
Cheerful, affectionate and forever wagging, the English Cocker Spaniel is an endearing family dog and an enthusiastic hunter.
English Foxhound
- Large
- 25–35 kg
- 10–13 yrs
A hardy, sociable pack hound, the English Foxhound is built to run for hours. It suits very active owners in the countryside.
English Pointer
- Large
- 20–34 kg
- 12–15 yrs
An elegant athlete with a spectacular point, the English Pointer is fast, tireless and gentle, made for open spaces and hunters.
English Setter
- Large
- 20–32 kg
- 11–13 yrs
An elegant pointing dog with a speckled coat, the English Setter is gentle, affectionate and very sociable, an ideal companion for active families.
English Springer Spaniel
- Medium
- 20–25 kg
- 12–14 yrs
Tireless, cheerful and very affectionate, the English Springer is an enthusiastic flushing dog and an excellent dog for active families.
Eurasier
- Medium
- 18–32 kg
- 12–14 yrs
A modern German spitz, the Eurasier is calm, balanced and devoted to its family, a quiet and easy-going companion.
Fila Brasileiro
- Giant
- 40–65 kg
- 9–11 yrs
A deeply loyal Brazilian mastiff, the Fila Brasileiro is a guardian highly suspicious of strangers, for experienced owners only.
Finnish Spitz
- Medium
- 7–13 kg
- 12–15 yrs
Finland's red-coated national dog, the Finnish Spitz is lively, cheerful and very vocal: it 'sings' to point out game.
Flat-coated Retriever
- Large
- 25–36 kg
- 8–10 yrs
Cheerful, optimistic and forever playful, the Flat-coated Retriever is an affectionate family dog that stays young at heart all its life.
French Bulldog
- Small
- 8–14 kg
- 10–12 yrs
Compact, funny and very cuddly, the French Bulldog is an ideal city companion, as long as it is well protected from heat.
French Pointing Dog
- Medium – Large
- 18–32 kg
- 12–14 yrs
One of Europe's oldest pointing breeds, the Braque Français comes in two types, Gascogne and Pyrénées. It is gentle, biddable and easy to train.
French Spaniel
- Large
- 20–27 kg
- 12–14 yrs
A large white-and-brown pointing spaniel, the French Spaniel is gentle, balanced and very close to its family, in the field and at home.
German Hunting Terrier
- Small
- 7.5–10 kg
- 12–15 yrs
A small black-and-tan hunter with formidable energy, the Jagdterrier is first and foremost a working dog for experienced hunters.
German Pinscher
- Medium
- 14–20 kg
- 12–14 yrs
Elegant, muscular and full of energy, the German Pinscher is a lively, watchful dog and an ancestor of the Dobermann and Miniature Pinscher.
German Shepherd
- Large
- 22–40 kg
- 9–13 yrs
Loyal, steady and remarkably versatile, the German Shepherd is both a protective family dog and an outstanding working dog.
German Shorthaired Pointer
- Large
- 20–32 kg
- 12–14 yrs
A versatile, tireless pointing dog, the German Shorthaired Pointer is cheerful, affectionate and made for very sporty families.
German Spitz
- Small – Medium
- 5–20 kg
- 13–15 yrs
Lively, alert and covered in an abundant coat, the German Spitz comes in several sizes and makes an excellent watchdog.
German Wirehaired Pointer
- Large
- 25–34 kg
- 12–14 yrs
A versatile hunter with a wiry coat and bushy beard, the Drahthaar is sturdy, loyal and tireless, a true working dog.
Giant Schnauzer
- Large
- 35–50 kg
- 10–12 yrs
Big, powerful and very energetic, the Giant Schnauzer is an intelligent, protective working dog for active, experienced owners.
Golden Retriever
- Large
- 25–34 kg
- 10–12 yrs
Gentle, patient and always good-natured, the Golden Retriever is one of the best family dogs, but it copes poorly with strong heat.
Gordon Setter
- Large
- 25–30 kg
- 10–12 yrs
The sturdiest of the setters, the black-and-tan Gordon Setter is loyal, brave and very attached to its family.
Grand Basset Griffon Vendéen
- Medium
- 18–22 kg
- 12–14 yrs
Larger and more powerful than the PBGV, the Grand Basset Griffon Vendéen is a cheerful, brave and very sociable scent hound.
Grand Bleu de Gascogne
- Large
- 30–40 kg
- 10–12 yrs
A large scent hound from south-west France with a bluish ticked coat, the Grand Bleu de Gascogne is calm, noble and has a magnificent voice.
Great Dane
- Giant
- 50–90 kg
- 7–10 yrs
An elegant giant with a gentle nature, the Great Dane is a calm, affectionate companion, but its size demands suitable space and budget.
Greater Swiss Mountain Dog
- Large
- 38–64 kg
- 8–11 yrs
The largest of the Swiss mountain dogs, this short-coated tricolour dog is calm, reliable and very attached to its family.
Greyhound
- Large
- 27–40 kg
- 10–14 yrs
The fastest dog in the world is also a big couch potato at home: the Greyhound is gentle, calm and very affectionate.
Hanoverian Scenthound
- Medium
- 25–40 kg
- 10–14 yrs
A specialist in tracking wounded game, the Hanoverian Scenthound is a calm, tenacious tracker deeply attached to its handler.
Havanese
- Small
- 4–6 kg
- 13–15 yrs
A small Cuban dog with a silky coat, the Havanese is cheerful, sociable and easy-going, ideal for families in the city.
Hovawart
- Large
- 25–40 kg
- 10–14 yrs
An elegant, versatile German guardian, the Hovawart is loyal, watchful and affectionate, with a strong personality.
Hungarian Vizsla
- Large
- 20–27 kg
- 12–15 yrs
An elegant, toast-coloured pointing dog, the Vizsla is gentle, sensitive and extremely attached to its family: a true 'velcro dog'.
Ibizan Hound
- Large
- 19–25 kg
- 12–14 yrs
A slender hunter from the Balearic Islands with large upright ears, the Ibizan Hound is athletic, gentle and capable of spectacular jumps.
Icelandic Sheepdog
- Medium
- 11–14 kg
- 12–15 yrs
Iceland's only native dog breed, this small spitz-type herder is cheerful, sociable and devoted to its family.
Irish Red Setter
- Large
- 25–32 kg
- 12–15 yrs
A stunning dog with a flaming mahogany coat, the Irish Setter is cheerful, exuberant and affectionate, an eternal teenager full of energy.
Irish Terrier
- Medium
- 11–13 kg
- 12–15 yrs
A racy red terrier with a fiery temperament, the Irish Terrier is brave, loyal and very affectionate with its family.
Irish Water Spaniel
- Large
- 20–30 kg
- 10–12 yrs
A large, curly, liver-coloured spaniel with a 'rat tail', the Irish Water Spaniel is a superb swimmer, playful and full of humour.
Irish Wolfhound
- Giant
- 40–55 kg
- 6–10 yrs
One of the tallest dogs in the world, the Irish Wolfhound is a gentle giant: calm, patient and very sociable.
Italian Greyhound
- Toy
- 3.5–5 kg
- 13–15 yrs
The smallest of the sighthounds, the Italian Greyhound is graceful, gentle and very cuddly, with the outline of a miniature Greyhound.
Jack Russell Terrier
- Small
- 5–7 kg
- 13–16 yrs
Small but tireless, the Jack Russell is a lively, clever and daring terrier that needs plenty of activity.
Japanese Chin
- Toy
- 1.8–3.5 kg
- 10–12 yrs
An elegant little dog of the Japanese nobility, the Japanese Chin is calm, refined and very affectionate with its family.
Japanese Spitz
- Small
- 5–10 kg
- 12–16 yrs
A small, all-white spitz with a bright smile, the Japanese Spitz is cheerful, affectionate and easy to live with.
Kangal Shepherd Dog
- Giant
- 40–65 kg
- 12–15 yrs
A large livestock guardian from Turkey, the Kangal is calm, independent and remarkably loyal to its family.
Keeshond
- Medium
- 15–25 kg
- 12–15 yrs
With its 'spectacles' outlined around the eyes, the Keeshond is an affectionate, cheerful grey spitz that is very family-oriented.
Kerry Blue Terrier
- Medium
- 15–18 kg
- 12–15 yrs
An Irish terrier with a soft, wavy blue-grey coat, the Kerry Blue is versatile, playful and protective, and sheds very little.
King Charles Spaniel
- Small
- 3.6–6.3 kg
- 10–12 yrs
A small, short-nosed companion spaniel with a soft expression, the King Charles is calm, affectionate and perfect for a quiet life.
Komondor
- Giant
- 40–60 kg
- 10–12 yrs
A Hungarian giant covered in long white cords, the Komondor is an imposing, calm and highly protective livestock guardian.
Korean Jindo
- Medium
- 15–23 kg
- 12–15 yrs
South Korea's national dog, the Jindo is a loyal, clean and independent spitz that often bonds deeply with one person.
Kuvasz
- Giant
- 37–62 kg
- 10–12 yrs
A large Hungarian guardian with a wavy white coat, the Kuvasz is noble, brave and highly protective of its family.
Labrador Retriever
- Large
- 25–36 kg
- 10–12 yrs
Sociable, cheerful and easy to train, the Labrador is the quintessential family dog; it needs exercise and a carefully watched diet.
Lagotto Romagnolo
- Medium
- 11–16 kg
- 12–16 yrs
A curly-coated Italian truffle dog, the Lagotto is affectionate, curious and blessed with an exceptional nose. It sheds very little.
Large Münsterländer
- Large
- 25–30 kg
- 11–13 yrs
A large long-haired black-and-white pointing dog, the Large Münsterländer is gentle, reliable and very attached to its family.
Leonberger
- Giant
- 45–75 kg
- 8–10 yrs
A gentle giant with a lion-like mane, the Leonberger is a calm, patient and very sociable family dog, but poorly suited to heat.
Lhasa Apso
- Small
- 5–8 kg
- 12–15 yrs
A small, long-coated guardian of Tibetan monasteries, the Lhasa Apso is proud, watchful and very attached to its family.
Löwchen
- Small
- 4–8 kg
- 12–15 yrs
Famous for its traditional 'little lion' clip, this European bichon is cheerful, lively and very affectionate.
Maltese
- Toy
- 3–4 kg
- 12–15 yrs
A small dog with a long, silky white coat, the Maltese is gentle, playful and devoted to its owners. It sheds very little.
Manchester Terrier
- Small
- 5–10 kg
- 12–16 yrs
An elegant, smooth-coated black-and-tan terrier, the Manchester is lively, clever and affectionate, and easy to groom.
Maremma Sheepdog
- Large
- 30–45 kg
- 11–13 yrs
A large white livestock guardian, the Maremma Sheepdog is calm, independent and deeply loyal to whatever it protects.
Mastiff
- Giant
- 70–100 kg
- 6–10 yrs
One of the heaviest dogs in the world, the Mastiff is a calm, dignified giant that is very gentle with its family.
Miniature Pinscher
- Small
- 4–6 kg
- 12–16 yrs
Small, proud and full of energy, the Miniature Pinscher is a lively, watchful dog with a personality far bigger than its size.
Miniature Schnauzer
- Small
- 4–8 kg
- 12–15 yrs
A small, bearded, cheerful and watchful dog, the Miniature Schnauzer is an ideal city companion that sheds very little.
Neapolitan Mastiff
- Giant
- 50–70 kg
- 7–9 yrs
Massive and covered in folds, the Neapolitan Mastiff is an impressive, calm and loyal guardian whose health needs close attention.
Nederlandse Kooikerhondje
- Small
- 9–11 kg
- 12–14 yrs
A small red-and-white Dutch spaniel with black-tipped ears, the Kooikerhondje is lively, sensitive and very attached to its family.
Newfoundland
- Giant
- 54–68 kg
- 8–10 yrs
A soft-hearted giant and outstanding swimmer, the Newfoundland is a legendarily gentle family dog, but very sensitive to heat.
Norwegian Elkhound
- Medium
- 20–25 kg
- 12–15 yrs
A sturdy grey Nordic spitz, the Norwegian Elkhound is brave, tireless and affectionate with its family.
Norwich Terrier
- Small
- 5–5.5 kg
- 12–15 yrs
One of the smallest terriers, the prick-eared Norwich is cheerful, sociable and fearless, an ideal city companion.
Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever
- Medium
- 17–23 kg
- 12–14 yrs
The smallest retriever, the red 'Toller' is lively, clever and full of energy, with a unique hunting technique.
Old English Sheepdog
- Large
- 27–45 kg
- 10–12 yrs
A big grey-and-white teddy bear, the Old English Sheepdog is a jolly, patient family dog, but very poorly suited to strong heat.
Papillon
- Toy
- 1.5–5 kg
- 13–16 yrs
Recognisable by its large, fringed ears shaped like butterfly wings, this little dog is lively, clever and surprisingly athletic.
Parson Russell Terrier
- Small
- 6–8 kg
- 13–15 yrs
Longer-legged than the Jack Russell, the Parson Russell is a sporty, cheerful, tireless terrier made for active owners.
Pekingese
- Small
- 3–6 kg
- 12–14 yrs
Once the dog of China's imperial palaces, the Pekingese is dignified, independent and devoted to its owners, with the look of a little lion.
Pembroke Welsh Corgi
- Small
- 9–12 kg
- 12–14 yrs
A short-legged Welsh cattle dog with a big heart, the Pembroke Corgi is lively, funny and surprisingly athletic.
Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen
- Small
- 11–18 kg
- 12–14 yrs
A small, shaggy and cheerful scent hound, the PBGV is curious, sociable and full of zest, but very nose-driven.
Pharaoh Hound
- Large
- 20–25 kg
- 12–14 yrs
Slender and fiery-red, the Pharaoh Hound from Malta is a fast, playful and affectionate hunter that 'blushes' when excited.
Polish Lowland Sheepdog
- Medium
- 14–23 kg
- 12–15 yrs
A shaggy, medium-sized herder, the Polish Lowland Sheepdog is lively, intelligent and a good watchdog with an excellent memory.
Pomeranian
- Toy
- 1.5–3.2 kg
- 12–16 yrs
A tiny ball of fluff with a big personality, the Pomeranian is lively, playful and devoted to its owners.
Poodle
- Toy – Large
- 3–30 kg
- 12–15 yrs
Intelligent, cheerful and barely shedding, the Poodle comes in four sizes, from Toy to Standard, and adapts to almost any household.
Porcelaine
- Large
- 25–28 kg
- 12–13 yrs
A French scent hound with a glossy white coat like porcelain, the Porcelaine is elegant, gentle and passionate about hunting.
Portuguese Water Dog
- Medium
- 16–25 kg
- 11–13 yrs
A tireless swimmer with a curly or wavy coat, the Portuguese Water Dog is intelligent, playful and sheds very little.
Presa Canario
- Large
- 40–65 kg
- 9–11 yrs
A mastiff from the Canary Islands, the Presa Canario is a powerful, self-assured guardian devoted to its family, and needs an experienced owner.
Pug
- Small
- 6–8 kg
- 12–15 yrs
A small dog with a wrinkled face and a comic nature, the Pug is affectionate, sociable and made for indoor life, away from the heat.
Puli
- Medium
- 10–15 kg
- 12–16 yrs
A small Hungarian herder with a corded coat, the Puli is lively, funny and very attached to its family.
Pyrenean Mountain Dog
- Giant
- 40–60 kg
- 10–12 yrs
A majestic large white dog, the Pyrenean Mountain Dog has guarded flocks in the Pyrenees for centuries. Calm and independent, it is a born guardian.
Pyrenean Shepherd
- Medium
- 7–15 kg
- 12–15 yrs
A small, highly strung and tireless mountain herder, the Pyrenean Shepherd is quick, clever and devoted to its owner.
Rhodesian Ridgeback
- Large
- 32–37 kg
- 10–12 yrs
An athletic African hunter recognisable by the ridge of hair along its back, the Rhodesian Ridgeback is dignified, loyal and well suited to heat.
Rottweiler
- Large
- 35–60 kg
- 9–10 yrs
Powerful, calm and self-assured, the Rottweiler is a devoted guardian and an affectionate companion when well trained and socialised.
Rough Collie
- Large
- 18–30 kg
- 12–14 yrs
Made famous by Lassie, the Rough Collie is a gentle, loyal and very family-minded dog with a magnificent mane.
Russian Toy
- Toy
- 1.5–3 kg
- 12–14 yrs
A tiny, elegant dog with large ears, the Russian Toy (Russkiy Toy) is lively, cheerful and very attached to its owners.
Saint Bernard
- Giant
- 60–90 kg
- 8–10 yrs
The legendary rescue dog of the Alps, the Saint Bernard is a gentle, patient giant built for cold far more than heat.
Saluki
- Large
- 18–27 kg
- 12–14 yrs
A Middle Eastern sighthound with a slender outline and feathered ears, the Saluki is enduring, graceful and reserved.
Samoyed
- Medium
- 17–30 kg
- 12–14 yrs
Famous for its 'smile' and white coat, the Samoyed is gentle, sociable and playful, but copes very poorly with heat.
Schipperke
- Small
- 3–9 kg
- 13–15 yrs
A small black Belgian dog with a strong personality, the Schipperke is curious, watchful and full of energy.
Scottish Deerhound
- Giant
- 34–46 kg
- 8–11 yrs
A tall, rough-coated Scottish sighthound with a gentle gaze, the Deerhound is calm, friendly and quiet at home.
Scottish Terrier
- Small
- 8.5–10.5 kg
- 11–13 yrs
A small bearded terrier with a famous silhouette, the Scottie is dignified, independent and loyal, with a big personality.
Shar Pei
- Medium
- 18–29 kg
- 8–12 yrs
Recognisable by its wrinkles and blue-black tongue, the Shar Pei is a calm, independent dog deeply attached to its family.
Shetland Sheepdog
- Small
- 6–12 kg
- 12–14 yrs
An elegant little herding dog with an abundant coat, the Shetland Sheepdog is intelligent, sensitive and devoted to its family.
Shiba Inu
- Small
- 7–11 kg
- 12–16 yrs
A small fox-like Japanese dog, the Shiba is clean, independent and proud, with a rather cat-like character.
Shih Tzu
- Small
- 4.5–8 kg
- 10–16 yrs
Gentle, cuddly and full of charm, the Shih Tzu is a calm little companion dog, perfect for apartments but sensitive to heat.
Siberian Husky
- Medium
- 16–28 kg
- 12–14 yrs
A sociable, hard-working sled dog, the Siberian Husky charms with its pale eyes and energy, but copes very poorly with heat.
Sloughi
- Large
- 18–28 kg
- 12–15 yrs
A smooth-coated sighthound from the Maghreb, the Sloughi is an elegant, fast hunter that is calm and reserved at home and deeply attached to its family.
Small Münsterländer
- Medium
- 18–26 kg
- 12–14 yrs
A versatile, affectionate German pointing dog, the Small Münsterländer is lively, intelligent and easy to live with in a family.
Smooth Collie
- Large
- 18–30 kg
- 12–14 yrs
The same gentle temperament as its long-haired cousin with far easier grooming: the Smooth Collie is a loyal, sensitive family dog.
Smooth Fox Terrier
- Small
- 7–8.5 kg
- 12–15 yrs
Lively, elegant and full of energy, the Smooth Fox Terrier is a bold little hunter that needs plenty of activity.
Soft-coated Wheaten Terrier
- Medium
- 14–18 kg
- 12–15 yrs
An Irish terrier with a silky, wheat-coloured coat, the Wheaten is cheerful, sociable and very affectionate, and excellent with children.
Spanish Greyhound (Galgo)
- Large
- 20–30 kg
- 12–15 yrs
A sighthound from the Iberian Peninsula, the Galgo Español is gentle, calm and endearing; many are adopted after a life of hunting.
Spanish Mastiff
- Giant
- 60–100 kg
- 10–12 yrs
A calm giant from the Spanish plateau, the Spanish Mastiff is a noble, serene flock guardian that is gentle with its family.
Spanish Water Dog
- Medium
- 14–22 kg
- 12–14 yrs
A versatile dog with a woolly, curly coat, the Spanish Water Dog is hard-working, loyal and well suited to hot climates.
Spinone Italiano
- Large
- 28–37 kg
- 10–12 yrs
An Italian pointing dog with a wiry coat and an almost human gaze, the Spinone is calm, patient and exceptionally kind, ideal for families.
Staffordshire Bull Terrier
- Medium
- 11–17 kg
- 12–14 yrs
Compact, muscular and overflowing with affection for people, the 'Staffie' is a cheerful, brave dog that needs serious training.
Standard Schnauzer
- Medium
- 14–20 kg
- 13–16 yrs
Bearded, clever and versatile, the Standard Schnauzer is a watchful, playful family dog that sheds little.
Thai Ridgeback
- Medium
- 16–34 kg
- 12–14 yrs
An athletic Thai dog with a ridge of hair along its back, the Thai Ridgeback is independent, loyal and perfectly suited to heat.
Tibetan Mastiff
- Giant
- 34–68 kg
- 10–14 yrs
An ancient Himalayan guardian with an imposing mane, the Tibetan Mastiff is calm, independent and highly protective.
Tibetan Spaniel
- Small
- 4–7 kg
- 12–15 yrs
A small dog from Tibetan monasteries, the Tibetan Spaniel is lively, intelligent and affectionate, with an almost cat-like independence.
Tibetan Terrier
- Medium
- 8–14 kg
- 12–15 yrs
A shaggy dog from the Tibetan mountains, the Tibetan Terrier is cheerful, affectionate and hardy. It sheds very little.
Tosa
- Large
- 36–61 kg
- 10–12 yrs
A powerful, quiet Japanese mastiff, the Tosa is calm but formidable and suited only to very experienced owners.
Weimaraner
- Large
- 25–40 kg
- 10–13 yrs
Nicknamed the 'grey ghost' for its silver coat, the Weimaraner is an elegant, energetic hunter deeply attached to its owners.
Welsh Springer Spaniel
- Medium
- 16–25 kg
- 12–15 yrs
A red-and-white spaniel from Wales, the Welsh Springer is affectionate, loyal and hardy, a little more reserved than its English cousin.
Welsh Terrier
- Small
- 9–10 kg
- 12–15 yrs
A small black-and-tan Welsh terrier, the Welshie is cheerful, well balanced and affectionate, a little less highly strung than other terriers.
West Highland White Terrier
- Small
- 7–10 kg
- 12–16 yrs
A small, all-white Scottish terrier, the Westie is cheerful, self-confident and very endearing. It adapts well to city life.
Whippet
- Medium
- 10–15 kg
- 12–15 yrs
A medium-sized sighthound, lightning-fast outdoors and cuddly at home, the Whippet is gentle, quiet and easy to live with.
White Swiss Shepherd
- Large
- 25–40 kg
- 12–14 yrs
A close white-coated cousin of the German Shepherd, the White Swiss Shepherd is gentle, intelligent and particularly well balanced in a family.
Wire Fox Terrier
- Small
- 7–8.5 kg
- 12–15 yrs
Famous as Tintin's companion, the Wire Fox Terrier is a lively, clever and brave little dog with plenty of character.
Wirehaired Pointing Griffon
- Medium
- 23–27 kg
- 12–14 yrs
A bearded, wire-coated pointing dog, the Korthals Griffon is versatile, affectionate and very cooperative, in the field and at home.
Wirehaired Vizsla
- Large
- 22–30 kg
- 12–14 yrs
The wire-coated, bearded version of the Vizsla, this Hungarian pointer is sturdy, affectionate and made for hunting in all weathers.
Xoloitzcuintle
- Small – Large
- 4–25 kg
- 12–16 yrs
The ancient dog of the Aztecs, the Xolo is usually hairless. Calm, loyal and attentive, it comes in three sizes.
Yorkshire Terrier
- Toy
- 2–3.2 kg
- 13–16 yrs
A small dog with a silky coat and a terrier's spirit, the Yorkie is lively, cuddly and deeply attached to its owners. It sheds very little.
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See all groups- Sheepdogs and cattle dogsDogs bred to move and guard livestock: alert, quick and deeply attached to their people.29 breed(s) in this group
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