Border Collie
Originating in the border country between Scotland and England, the Border Collie was developed by the shepherds' selection for biddable stock sense and the ability to work long days on rugged terrain. This created a breed with intensity, energy, agility and trainability, features that make an unsurpassed herding dog which also excels in obedience and agility competition. The Border Collie is a breed that desires to please yet may develop unacceptable behavior if not provided with activities that challenge its intelligence and use its energy.

Boston Terrier
The Boston Terrier resulted from selective breeding of the Bulldog and the white English Terrier by a few men in Boston area during the 1870s. Recognized by the AKC in 1891, the Boston Terrier is the first genuinely American breed. Today's Boston carries a clean cut square head, graphic markings, dark soft eyes and moves with grace and power, and it excels in Agility and Obedience work and has few equals as a companion and house pet. The Boston Terrier's personality has won this breed the nickname "the American Gentleman".

Boxer
The Boxer is a highly intelligent, medium-sized square dog with clean lines and balanced proportions. He was refined and bred from ancestors in Germany called Bullenbeisers--historically used to run down and hold large, formidable game animals--bear and boar. Today's Boxer is fearless but tractable, energetic, and wonderfully patient with children. Extremely intuitive, he is at all times responsive to his master's moods. He is the ideal family dog, but can be protective when called upon. Not a dog for the frail or timid, he is boisterous and clownish, cherishing his toys and his family into oldest age.

Brittany Spaniel
A medium size, strong, energetic hunter, the Brittany was originally developed in the 1850's from crossing English Setters and French Spaniels. This produced an athletic dog that today boasts more Dual Champions (holding both conformation and field titles) than any other sporting breed. Brittanys have passed the test upon every type of game for which pointing dogs are used. They have the disposition of the best house dog. They excel in the field, obedience, agility and show rings, and make excellent therapy dogs. They are happy, alert and intelligent, and require a home with an active lifestyle.

Bull Terrier
Starting in the mid-1800s from a cross between the Bulldog and the White English Terrier, the Bull Terrier was developed as a gentleman's companion. Initially bred only as a white and because of his great courage and style, he quickly gained popularity and earned the nickname "White Cavalier." Near the turn of the century, the colored variety began to develop. Now shown as two separate varieties, they are identical except for color, and can be born in the same litter. Still bred and loved as companions, they are energetic, playful and strong-willed. After an active puppyhood, expect to live with them on the couch.

Bulldog
This breed often mislabeled, is simply the Bulldog, not the English Bulldog. It got its name from the ancient and brutal gambling spectacle of bull baiting. The Bulldog's traits of courage and tenacity have made him a symbol of determination. Despite his tough-guy good looks, he is fun-loving and extremely affectionate. He adapts well to a family with playful children or to sedate apartment living. Since he is a wash and wear breed to show, he is a popular owner handled dog.

Bullmastiff
The Bullmastiff is fearless and confident, yet docile. Bred to be a guard dog, the breed is known for its intelligence, strength and trustworthiness, traits which make for a dependable family companion and protector. The Bullmastiff is probably many centuries old. Gamekeepers and breeders crossed Mastiffs and Bulldogs to create the Bullmastiff, which they then used effectively to deter poaching on large estates in England. Today's Bullmastiffs are fawn, red, or brindle, with black masking and short, wrinkled muzzles. Males are about 27" at the withers and weigh around 130 pounds, females slightly shorter and lighter.

Chihuahua
There is much disagreement as to the origins of the Chihuahua. Guesses include Mexico and the Aztecs, Egypt, the Sudan and Malta. Used for sacrifice in religious ceremonies and eaten by the conquistadors, there is no question that it is an ancient breed. It was said that a yellow Chihuahua could guide its owner's soul across the river of death to the other side. Chihuahuas have been a registered breed in this country for 100 years. Clever, gigantic in heart and personality, this under six pound companion is much beloved by owners. There are two varieties, long and short coat.

Chinese Shar-Pei
The Chinese Shar-Pei is a unique and intelligent dog most often recognized for its wrinkles. Initially developed as an all purpose Chinese farm dog, the breed does well today in obedience, agility, herding and tracking, with skills that would have been needed on the farm. Because the name "Shar-Pei" means "sand coat", harshness is a distinctive feature in its two accepted coat types, either horse (short) or brush (up to an inch long). Other unique qualities include black mouth pigment, a slightly "hippo-like" head shape, small ears, deepset eyes and rising topline.

Chow Chow
The Chow Chow is one of the oldest recognizable types of dog, discovered in China more than 2000 years ago. The Chow Chow was used for hunting, herding, pulling and protection. Today, the Chow Chow is primarily a companion dog with a possessive nature that endears his family and their possessions to him. Recognized by the AKC for competition in 1903, the Chow Chow possesses the rare characteristics of having a blue-black tongue and stilted gait.

Collie
Collies originated in Scotland where they were bred to gather, move and protect sheep and other animals. Collies were selected to herd because they are gentle, alert, and intelligent. The qualities that make the Collie a good herding dog continue to serve modern Collies in their role as family companions. The Collie comes in two varieties, the Rough coat and the Smooth coat. It is thought that the Rough coated Collie was used in the northern part of Scotland as a herder and the Smooth coated Collie was used as a drover to take the sheep to market. One standard is used for both varieties.

Dachshund
The long, low sturdy body of the Dachshund, developed in Germany three centuries ago, is a perfect example of form following function. With a prominent forechest and front legs that can dig, the Dachshund tenaciously and efficiently goes underground to hunt badger and other den-dwelling animals. He is a versatile hunter and his instincts help him to excel in conformation, earthdog, obedience, agility and tracking events. Bright and affectionate, the Dachshund is a wonderful, loyal pet. This unique breed comes in three Varieties - Longhaired, Smooth, and Wirehaired - competing separately; and in each variety, two sizes: miniature and standard, which are shown together.

Dalmatian
Coach dog, firehouse dog, hunting dog, the Dalmatian has performed many functions through the years with the one constant being his loyalty and devotion to his master. While the exact origin of the Dalmatian is a mystery, the breed's distinctive spots set them apart from all others. Dalmatians are either black or liver (deep brown) spotted and both colors are equal in the show ring. As a home companion, Dalmatians thrive as part of the family. They are bright dogs who respond well to gentle, positive training.

Doberman Pinscher
The Doberman Pinscher is best described as "an elegant athlete in a tight-fitting wrapper." This square, compact and muscular dog gives the immediate impression of grace, beauty and nobility, while at the same time being energetic and fearless. It has made its mark through the years as a police, military and service dog. But it is best known today as an intelligent, affectionate and obedient companion. A spectacular Doberman Pinscher sculpture, "Always Faithful," a tribute to war dogs and veterinarians, is on permanent display at the U.S. War Dog Cemetery in Guam, at the Quantico Marine Corps Research Center in Virginia, at the University of Tennessee Veterinary School, and at the AKC Museum of the Dog in St. Louis

German Shepherd
A dog for all reasons, the German Shepherd Dog is diversified in its ability to truly be a partner to mankind. With brains, size, coat, trainability and its desire to please, it has long been the choice in many canine-related fields. Originally bred in Germany to be a protector and a herding dog, the German Shepherd has made its mark in animal assisted therapy and as a service dog, in explosive and drug detection, search and rescue, law enforcement and more. Through it all, the German Shepherd is also a wonderful family member and a dog of distinction.

Giant Schnauzer
Developed as a drover's dog, the Giant Schnauzer was practically unknown outside of Bavaria until the early 1900s. The breeds keen intelligence and powerful body also made it a fine choice for police and guard work in Germany. During the 1930s, the first Giant Schnauzers were imported to the United States but it was truly a rare breed until the 1960s. Over the years the Giant Schnauzer has shown outstanding abilities in search and rescue, schutzhund, conformation, obedience and agility thus earning the reputation as a handsome, intelligent and truly versatile working dog.

Great Dane
The Dane is a true giant among breeds descending from the Mastiff. The Great Dane was developed in Germany to hunt wild boar, and was known as the Boar Hound when it appeared in America late in the 19th century. While intimidating in size and stature, this is a breed noted for its gentleness and "human-like" compassion. They make excellent family dogs Its impressive size, family devotion and gentle nature combine to create a first-rate companion. The breed also competes well in obedience, agility and tracking. Permissible colors are brindle, blue, black, fawn and the black and whites, harlequin and mantle.

Great Pyrenees
The Great Pyrenees is a large, principally white, guardian dog used since 3000 BC by Pyrenees Mountains shepherds in Southwestern Europe. Traditionally a peasant's dog, they found favor in the royal court of Louis XIV and as elegant guardian of many grand French chateaux. Renowned for their ancient instincts and ability to determine friend from foe they are still prized as guardians. The first breeding pair came to America in1931. Today they are found around the world as companion, guardian, therapy, and show dogs. While not for everyone, they adapt easily to either large or small living quarters or properties.

Greyhound
A swift and ancient coursing breed dating from the time of Cleopatra, Greyhounds accompanied Spanish explorers to the New World in the 1500's and were present in the Colonies by the Revolutionary War. English and Irish imports of the 1800's used their talents to control wild game in the developing American West, and today's show Greyhounds descend from imports in the early 1900's. Built for speed, the Greyhound is powerful, symmetrical, balanced, and keen. Greyhounds adore human companionship, and indeed are happiest when engaged in play and running. Today, Greyhounds are successful show dogs and compete in obedience, agility, and coursing events.

Italian Greyhound
The Italian Greyhound is the smallest of the family of gazehounds (dogs that hunt by sight). The breed is an old one and is believed to have originated more than 2,000 years ago in the countries now known as Greece and Turkey. The Italian Greyhound is a true greyhound, his small size the result of selective breeding. While there is some difference of opinion, it seems likely that his original role was to serve both as a hunter of small game and as a companion. He is luxury loving; yet being a true hound, he likes exercise and outdoor activities.

Jack Russell Terrier (Parson Russell Terrier)
A true working terrier and named for its founder, the Reverend John Russell, who developed the breed in the south of England in the 1800's, the Parson Russell Terrier had one purpose: to hunt with foxhounds and bolt the red fox from its lair. A medium-sized, energetic terrier with a keen hunting instinct, the Parson Russell is a wonderful companion and family member when properly trained. While he enjoys success in the show ring, the Parson also excels in earthdog, obedience and agility events.

Keeshond
The luxurious standoff coat of the Keeshond (pronounced kayz-hawnd) and its expressive markings are sure to draw attention. A handsome, intelligent companion dog, they are distinguished by a friendly, outgoing temperament and a lively interest in the world around them. They are known for their keen intelligence, and for their outgoing and friendly nature with people and other dogs alike. This makes them an excellent alarm-giving watchdog or wonderful prospect as therapy dogs and top performers in agility and obedience competitions. For owners, a heavy hand is not required but a sense of humor is.

Lhasa Apso
The Lhasa Apso is a Tibetan breed developed by the Dalai Lamas that takes its name from the capital city of Tibet, Lhasa. This is a small but sturdy dog, covered from head to tail with a long, dense, hard coat that protected him in that harsh Tibetan climate. He is a guardian by nature, having an acute sense of hearing to assist him in guarding the temples and alerting his masters of anything irregular. His nature is independent and he approaches life in a calm and deliberate manner. Seldom a pet, rather a companion-often a clown but never a fool!

Maltese
"Ye ancient Dogge of Malta" as they were called many centuries ago, Maltese through the years have been gifts for royalty, lap companions, and comforters, and sought after for their owners' pleasure and amusement. They enjoyed tremendous popularity by the aristocracy because of their elegance and beauty. Many people long ago thought that they could put the little dogs right next to them at the end of their beds when they were ill, and the Maltese would have healing and comforting qualities. They are still today prized as small companion animals, best friends and comforters, always gentle-mannered, affectionate, and amusing!

Miniature Pinscher
The Miniature Pinscher, or Min Pin, is a small, short-coated, compact breed belonging to the Toy Group. Allowed colors for Min Pins include Red, Stag-Red, Black and Rust/Tan, and Chocolate and Rust/Tan. Despite their similar appearance, Miniature Pinschers are not bred-down miniature Doberman Pinschers. In fact, the Miniature Pinscher predates the Doberman by many years. Min Pins are alert, active, fearless, and naturally inquisitive. When moving, they are further distinguished by their unique "hackney-like" gait. A big dog in a small dog package, they have deservedly earned the title, "The King Of Toys".

Miniature Schnauzer
The Miniature Schnauzer, cousin to the larger Standard Schnauzer, did not originate in England as many of the terriers, but in Germany. He is a small dog but in no way is he delicate. He makes an excellent companion because he is obedient, quick to learn, devoted to his owner, spunky and fearless. His deepest need is to live as part of the family, going where they go and doing what they do. He does not shed, but needs to be groomed approximately every six weeks. He comes in three colors: salt and pepper, black and silver, and solid black.

Newfoundland
The Newfoundland is a large, strong, active dog equally at home in the water and on land. In his native Newfoundland, he was used as a working dog to pull nets for the fishermen and haul wood. The oily nature of his heavy double coat, his webbed feet, his deep, broad chest and well-sprung ribs make him a natural swimmer with true life-saving instincts. His unique gentleness, even temper and devotion make him an ideal companion for child or adult. He impresses the eye with great strength, dignity and pride. Sweetness of temperament is the hallmark of the Newfoundland.

Norwegian Elkhound
From his ancient heritage as a hunting and guard dog companion to the Vikings, the Norwegian Elkhound is a fearless hunter of moose and other big game in Scandanavia. This scent hound is a sturdy, medium-sized, gray dog which remains relatively unchanged in breed type for thousands of years. This hardy, intelligent dog is fiercely loyal to his master while maintaining his independence. Norwegian Elkhounds were first imported into this country in the early 1900's. Today, they continue to be versatile as companions to the active family and as competitors in the breed, obedience and agility show rings.

Old English Sheepdog
Evolving in the late 18th Century when the wool and textile industries in Europe and the British Isles were booming, today's Old English Sheepdog can accurately trace his ancestry back only to the 1870's. A herding and drover's dog, he was highly prized for his expertise with livestock and the rough double coat, protection from rain and brambles. Underneath the glorious coats of today the OES is still a thickset, muscular, able-bodied dog whose intelligent, sweet, humorous but independent nature makes him a loyal and loving family member for those devoted to this big, hairy, and sometimes boisterous fellow.

Pekingese
The Pekingese is a well-balanced, compact dog of Chinese origin. Its image is lion-like, implying courage, dignity, boldness and self-esteem rather than daintiness or delicacy. With its heavy front and lighter hindquarters, it is surprisingly heavy for its size. The topskull is massive, broad and flat, when combined with the wide set eyes, cheekbones and broad lower jaw, forms the correctly shaped face. The gait is unhurried and dignified, with a slight roll over the shoulders. Its temperament is of directness, independence and individuality, combined with dignity, intelligence and self-importance make for a good natured and affectionate companion.

Pointer
The Pointer has been bred for many generations to be a biddable, birdy, gun dog. Believed to be originally from Spain, they were then known as Spanish Pointers, far heavier-cast dogs than the Pointers of today. British Army officers brought them home from Spain at the end of the War of Spanish Succession in the early 1700s. Later, the Spanish Pointers were crossed with Italian Pointers to produce the English Pointer or the Pointer as we know him in America today. The Westminster Kennel Club was organized in the early 1870s and the club's early English import, "Sensation", is still used as the club logo.

Pointer, German Short-haired
The German Shorthaired Pointer certainly has the handsome good looks needed for the show ring, but he was bred to be a high performance hunting dog. Many regard him as the most versatile of sporting dogs, reflecting his land and water skills. His 19th century origins can be traced to Germany and Austria, where old Spanish Pointer was probably mixed with English Foxhound and other scent hounds. Introduced here in the 1920's, the Shorthair quickly earned the respect of serious hunters, who found him athletic, easy to train, and generous in nature. And with enough exercise, he's well suited to family life, too.

Pointer, German Wire-haired
The German Wirehaired Pointer was developed in Germany at the end of the 19th century. This is a rough-coated, all-purpose dog that can find both fur and feather, work in rugged terrain, retrieve on land and in water and blood track wounded game. At home, the same dog is a devoted companion and the protector of home and hearth. They are very people oriented and thrive on attention and direction from their families. Despite their strong-willed temperaments, they are cooperative in the field, enthusiastic participants in other performance events, and loyal friends.

Pomeranian
The Pomeranian is a Nordic breed that takes its name from the province of Pomerania, now located in Germany. It was bred down to its current 3 to 7 pound toy size from larger ancestors which were used for herding and for pulling sleds. Their popularity was greatly enhanced by Queen Victoria of England, who owned the first Pomeranians to be shown. Poms come in a wide variety of coat colors and patterns. These spirited, loving and loyal dogs excel in the show ring, companion events and as therapy dogs in nursing homes and hospitals.

Poodle, Toy, Miniature, Standard
Don't be fooled by the Poodle's fancy haircut - this is a dog for all reasons (and comes in three sizes!). Whether you desire a charming companion, show dog, hunting retriever with a sense of humor (forgives you if you miss a shot), the Poodle fits the bill--and mostly because he or she is bright, alert and trainable. It is high maintenance because of the coat that grows all over its body and must be kept trimmed (a variety of styles are fashionable as well as the show trims), the Poodle makes up for it with its extreme intelligence.

Pug
The Pug is one of the oldest breeds of dog, originating in China some 700 years B.C. Their presence was noted in Holland, England, Germany, Spain, Italy, and Russia as early as the 15th & 16th centuries. Their primary purpose has always been exclusively for the companionship and amusement of their people. Pugs combine a cocky confidence with a friendly, sensitive nature. They are great with children and thoroughly relish playtime. They are small yet sturdy, rough and yet sensitive and sincere. Pugs are extremely friendly, uninhibited, delightful, comical little characters.

Redbone Coonhound
A beautiful, large hound distinguished by its solid color, rich red coat with occasional traces of white on the chest of feet on some individuals. Their recognizable long floppy ears and dour expression make them a store favorite. These hounds are commonly 21-27 inches tall and usually weigh 50-70 lbs. They live for approximately 11-12 years.

Retriever, Chesapeake Bay
A powerful and rugged retriever developed along the shores of Chesapeake Bay in the 1800s to work in the adverse weather and water conditions. The Chesapeake is valued for its bright and happy disposition, intelligence, quiet good sense, and affectionate protective nature. While the Chesapeake is primarily a working gun dog, the breed competes successfully in all areas of AKC competitions - field trials, shows, agility, obedience, hunt tests and tracking. The breed has also made excellent therapy, search/rescue and drug/bomb detection dogs.

Retriever, Golden
The Golden Retriever was developed in Scotland and England in the late 19th century for the purpose of retrieving wildfowl on land and water. Its physical characteristics and its willing, adaptable, trainable nature have also fitted it for usefulness in many other endeavors such as service dogs, guide dogs for the blind, therapy dogs and search and rescue. While the Golden is an ideal family dog, it requires training and exercise. Persons wanting to purchase a Golden Retriever puppy should learn about this breed and purchase only from a reputable breeder.

Retriever, Labrador
The Labrador is a retrieving gun dog of medium size, with a dense, weather-resistant coat, an "otter" tail, and a clean-cut head with a "kind" expression. The first Labradors arrived in England from Newfoundland aboard fishing boats early in the 19th century, and imports to this country began in the early 1900s. Labrador temperament is outgoing, indulgent with peers, human oriented and tractable. Labradors can be found in guide and assistance dog programs, and substance detection and search and rescue work. Since 1992, the Labrador Retriever has headed the list as the most popular breed in the U.S.

Rottweiler
The breed standard for the Rottweiler calls for it to be compact, muscular, with a medium to large body that enable him to efficiently do what he was bred to do; pull carts, herd stock for the farmer, and assist the policemen in their quest to "catch the bad guy". The Rottweiler has a short, docked tail and the only acceptable color is solid black base color with rust to tan markings. A Rottweiler must be calm, confident, courageous, but not unduly aggressive. Although many people fear this working animal, he's very gentle and devoted to his family.

Samoyed
The Samoyed is an ancient working breed developed by the nomadic Samoyed people of Siberia. His jobs included herding reindeer, hunting and hauling sledges and guard work. The Samoyed people depended upon their dogs for survival. Samoyed dogs actually slept in the shelters with their people. Their exceedingly close association with humans helped to imprint a wonderful temperament on the breed with the smiling face, laughing eyes and stunning silver tipped coat. The Samoyed, a working dog, is happiest when he has a job, even if it is just bringing in the daily paper.

Schipperke
The history of the Schipperke dates back from Belgium in the 1600s, where he was known as an active, agile watchdog and hunter of vermin. A highly adaptable breed, the Schipperke was at home on the canal barges, herding livestock, hunting game, or simply guarding his domain. Although small and compact, he is not short on intelligence, courage or devotion. A true companion dog, the Schipperke is devoted to the family, particularly the children.

Scottish Terrier
The Scottish Terrier was originally bred to rid highland farms of ground-dwelling predators. In the early 20th century, the breed became a popular show dog and family pet in England and the United States. Despite its small size, the Scottish Terrier is a powerful dog with well-developed hunting and digging instincts. Scotties are supremely independent little dogs who can be stubborn and sensitive at the same time. They are often aggressive with other dogs of the same sex, but can usually learn to respect a cat. Scotties require regular grooming to keep their smart appearance. Scotties are inclined to ignore strangers until they have been properly introduced.

Setter, English
The English Setter is a purposeful sporting dog, yet incredibly beautiful and athletic in its conformation and movement. As the ancient foundation stock for the Irish and Gordon Setters, English Setters possess the strength of the Gordon and the grace of the Irish with a calm and warm disposition all their own. English Setters have been among the premier breeds since the formation of the American Kennel Club (AKC); in fact, along with eight other Sporting breeds, they were among the first pure breeds accepted by the Club in 1878. The dog with AKC registration #1 was an English Setter named Adonis.

Setter, Irish
Small Spanish hunting dogs were brought to Ireland when the Spanish Armada joined the Irish rebellion against the British in about 1500. Originally they crouched, or set, in front of the bird while the hunter threw a net over bird and dog, hence the term "setter." Over time, breeders developed a taller red and white dog to point game and by 1800 the Irish Setter had evolved. Today's Irish Setters are pure mahogany or red, with an occasional strip of white on the chest. Active, independent aristocrats, they are the choice of many sportsmen. At home they are sweet-natured, trainable companions.

Shetland Sheepdog (Sheltie)
The Sheltie developed in the Shetland Islands as a hardy working dog, an alert guard dog, and an intelligent, affectionate companion. The Sheltie generally resembles a Collie in miniature. His color can be sable (ranging from light golden brown to a dark mahogany), black and blue merle, with varying amounts of white and/or tan. His most outstanding characteristic is his unique temperament. He has an intense desire to please and an enormous capacity for love and affection. The Sheltie is exceptionally trainable and responsive, characteristics which make him an ideal companion and an outstanding worker in obedience and agility.

Shih Tzu
The Shih Tzu, according to tradition, was developed in China's Imperial courts by the crossing of ancient Chinese and Tibetan breeds. This royal Toy dog became extinct in China following the revolution of 1949 but fortunately, a number of Shih Tzu had been taken home by diplomats so the breed was continued in England, Norway and Sweden. In recent years the breed has become enormously popular in the United States as a sturdy, lively, alert Toy dog that is a happy companion. Shih Tzu in the show ring have a long flowing double coat; family pets look charming in a variety of short-hair clips.

Siberian Husky
The Siberian Husky is the fastest, most enduring and most versatile of all purebred sled dogs. He is extremely affectionate, even clownish, but is also independent and sometimes head-strong. He requires a fenced yard because he loves to run and generally does not come when called. He also sheds his coat once or twice a year in profuse quantities. He is excellent with children but is no watch dog, loving friends and strangers alike. Built for speed and endurance, he is somewhat smaller than people often imagine, usually weighing 40-50 pounds.

Spaniel, Cocker
The Cocker Spaniel is defined as a breed by its beautiful head and soft, intelligent eye expression. Developed as an upland game gundog, it is compact and powerful with smooth, laid back, laid in shoulders, and a strong rear that allow it to move freely in the field and swim well in water. The smallest of the sporting spaniels, today's Cocker continues to exhibit the heart, stamina, and drive for field work, the grace and beauty that sparkles in the breed ring, together with an affectionate disposition that have made it among the most popular companion dogs for more than sixty years.
The Cocker Spaniel comes in three varieties, based on color: Black; Parti (two or more solid colors, one of which must be white); and ASCOB (Any Solid Color Other than Black).

Spaniel, English Springer
The English Springer Spaniel is a medium-sized sporting dog whose use in the field to flush (or "spring") game, gave birth to its name in England in 1902. The true beauty of the English Springer Spaniel is found in the expression of its original purpose: a companion gundog. The diverse appearance of today's show and field bred Springers results from the choices breeders make to achieve success in their venue of choice. Competitive field trial Springers are the ultimate in athleticism and performance. Competitive conformation Springers are striking examples of breed type and symmetry

St. Bernard
Within the Saint Bernard standard the words "powerful", "muscular", "strong" or "strongly developed" are often repeated. These words represent the foundation of correct Saint Bernard breed type. The Saint Bernard must be capable of performing his historical tasks as a companion, draft, rescue, and guard dog thus requiring not only structural strength but just as importantly, strength of character. Neither the tallest nor heaviest of breeds, he is a powerful dog whose soundness of body and mind are evident at first glance. Structural balance, functional correctness, and the good-natured temperament inherent to the breed cannot be over emphasized.

Standard Schnauzer
The Standard is the oldest of the three Schnauzer breeds, originating in Bavaria in the 15th century. Highly intelligent, this medium sized, sturdy dog was the working companion of the common man, a drover's dog, rat catcher and guardian. They were first imported in numbers to the U. S. in the 1920's. Now primarily family companions, their versatility is still in evidence. In addition to agility, obedience and tracking they excel in such diverse activities as bomb detection, search and rescue, and therapy. They have wiry coats and are either black or salt and pepper in color.

Vizsla
The Hungarian Vizsla represents one of the best in sporting dogs and loyal companions. Ancestors of the present Vizslas were the trusted and favorite hunting dogs of the Magyar tribes of the eighth century. The Vizsla is a medium-sized short-coated dog of distinguished appearance, golden rust in color. This is a dog of power and drive in the field yet a tractable and affectionate companion in the home. The Vizsla is a natural hunter endowed with a good nose and trainability. He is lively, gentle-mannered, demonstrably affectionate and sensitive though fearless with a well developed protective instinct.

Weimaraner
Weimaraners were bred to be personal hunting companions, retrievers and tracking dogs. When the breed was developed initially by the noblemen of the Court of Weimar, it was to hunt and track big game. When the land holdings in Weimar diminished, pointing dog stock was introduced into the breed and they evolved into a bird dog. They have very keen noses, and although not big running field dogs, they excel in their ability to find birds and to be a true personal hunting companion; pointing birds and retrieving birds.

Welsh Corgi (Cardigan)
In Welsh, Corgi means "dwarf dog". The Cardigan, the Corgi with the tail, is one of the oldest breeds in the British Isles, having been brought to Wales by the Celts in about 1200 BC. There, in Cardiganshire, the Cardigan was developed as a family companion and all purpose farm worker. His intelligence and trainability help him to excel today in most performance events. One of the best features of a Cardigan is his personality - a big dog in a small package. His loyalty and delightful sense of humor make him an outstanding family pet.

Welsh Corgi (Pembroke)
Long, low and sturdily built, Pembroke Welsh Corgis were developed in Wales as livestock dogs and family companions. They continue today to be willing workers and excellent companions in city and country alike. Their ancestry dates back to at least the tenth century in Wales. A true dwarf breed, the Pembroke Corgi is a breed of the Spitz group - recognized by a sharply-pointed muzzle and foxy face, erect and pointed ears, and a high tail set. The Pembroke's brave, steady temperament, physical agility and easily-kept, compact size are paramount characteristics of the breed.

West Highland White Terrier
Possessed with no small amount of self-esteem, the West Highland White Terrier is an all-white, compact, sturdy package of frolicsome energy. His ears stand up naturally and his tail is short by nature's design. The breed was developed in the Highlands of Scotland for the hard and dangerous work of destroying vermin. Though independent in nature, they enjoy participating in Conformation, Agility, Obedience and Tracking, but their favorite activity is Earthdog Tests -- designed to test his natural instincts. Life with one of the 'little white dogs' is never dull and can be a challenge to the unsuspecting first-time owner.

Whippet
The Whippet was probably bred from Greyhounds crossed with terriers and established as a breed in Northern England nearly 200 years ago. Recognized by the AKC in 1888, the Whippet, because of his natural athletic abilities and endearing personality, has continued to gain popularity since. He is affectionate and intelligent. He is clean because of his smooth short coat and his needs are simple - comfort and human companionship. A versatile sighthound, he can be a bed warmer or couch potato or a small-game hunter or race dog extraordinaire. He is a show dog or, most importantly, a delightful and adaptable pet.

Yorkshire Terrier
The Yorkshire Terrier, or Yorkie as he is commonly called, is a toy terrier known for its long, silky, blue coat and playful, terrier demeanor. Originally used as a ratting dog by the peasants in England, today Yorkies are a companion animal and much of their ratting instinct can only be seen while playing with their toys. While they take their role as a family member very seriously, they are too small for families with very young children. Yorkies have been shown in conformation for many, many years, but in recent years have done quite well also in obedience and agility.