A companion dog, strong and agile, highly intelligent, alert, and easy to train.They make good guard dogs; they will bark to announce strangers but will not attack unless provoked.They enjoy human companionship and should be in a home where they will receive loving attention.

While the Pit Bull is often maligned for its fearsome jaws and dog fighting history, Pit Bulls should be better known for their sweet, intelligent, outgoing and affectionate, people-oriented nature.

Also known as the Queensland Blue Heeler, Red Heeler, Hall's Heeler, and Australian Heeler, the Australian Cattle Dog (ACD)is a fearless and agile herding dog with bounds of energy.

Australian Shepherds are herding dogs that, despite the name, were developed in America. They have loads of energy, make great watchdogs, and are very easy to train.

Beagles were America's most popular purebred from 1953-59. Now they stand at #5 on the AKC list. Beagles are also popular with animators and cartoonists, appearing in Wallace and Gromit, Inspector Gadget, and of course, as the famous Snoopy!

The Bearded Collie is a jovial dog often lovingly called a "Beardie". They have a thick coat that needs a lot of attention, and an exuberant energy level that means this breed requires lots of exercise. Find out more about caring for a Beardie here.

Recognizable for their lamb-like appearance, the Bedlington Terrier is a lively and devoted dog. They have above average grooming and exercise needs, adore children and are quick to bark. Find out more about the British Bedlington here.

An affectionate and friendly dog, playful, and alert but also independent and intense.They are protective dogs, possessive of family, and may be aloof with strangers.

You may recognize these little white fluffballs as clown dogs from the circus! Bichon Frise are a lively breed and love being part of the family. Bichons need only moderate exercise but regular grooming. Find out more here.

The workaholic of the dog world.

Also known as the Russian Wolfhound, Borzoi are refined, fast and independent dogs. They are quiet dogs, rarely barking, but they bore easily, meaning they have above average mental and physical stimulation needs. Learn more about Borzoi here.

The Boston Terrier is officially the state dog of Massachusetts, but they're loved all over the States for their loving character. They are the 15th most popular breed in the US according to the AKC. Read more about Bostons here.

Boxers are the 7th most popular purebred dog in the US, and have held this position for the past 5 years. Boxers are loving and faithful and will loyally protect their master. They also have a clownish side to their personality, and get along well with children. Find out more about Boxers here.

Bulldogs, also known as English or British bulldogs, are well-loved in Britain, appearing as a mascot for many universities. The US also loves Bulldogs, as they are the 12th most popular breed. Find out more about these comical dogs here.

A wonderful jogging or hiking buddy, the Brittany needs a lot of exercise. They are fast learners though extremely sensitive dogs, and they require just as mental stimulation as physical. Read more about this French dog here.

A sturdy little dog, the Brussels Griffon rose to fame in the movie, As Good as it Gets. Cheerful, sensitive and sometimes high-strung, Griffons really love to be spoiled! Check out more details on these cute little dogs here.

Bull Terriers are known for their muscular bodies, egg-shaped heads and outgoing, clownish personalities. They love being part of the family but need confidant owners. Find out more about Bull Terriers here.

Established sometime during the mid-1800s, the Bullmastiff was developed to assist the gamekeepers who watched over large English estates. Bullmastiffs loyally served by their gamekeepers' side and today remain a steadfast companion.

The Cairn Terrier is a loyal family dog with low grooming needs but high exercise requirements. The breed became very popular after a Cairn was used to play Toto in The Wizard of Oz. Find out more about this little Scottish dog here.

Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are a delightful little dog that are well suited to families, including children and elderly. Polite yet confident, Cavaliers have a long glossy coat and are quite long lived. Find out more here.

A real all-American breed, the Chesapeake Bay Retriever was originally created to hunt along its master. Today the breed remains a devoted companion and family member.

A popular breed made famous by such Chis as Bruiser from Legally Blonde, Paris Hilton's Tinkerbell, and the Taco Bell chihuahua. Corageous and bold for their tiny size, Chihuahuas make good companions. Find out more about Chis here.

This loving, doting little dog comes in the powderpuff and hairless variety, the latter often winning the coveted title of World's Ugliest Dog! Find out more about Chinese Cresteds here.

The Chow Chow is an oriental breed known for it's lion-looks and dark tongue. They are fiercely loyal and independent, are fairly quiet dogs and have average exercise needs. Read more about Chows here.

Cocker Spaniels come in many colors, but one thing they all have in common is their big, dark, expressive eyes. You can find an animated cocker starring in Lady and the Tramp as Lady! Read more about Cocker Spaniels here.

Hailing from Madagascar, the Coton de Tulear’s heritage is unique as they may have arrived to the island upon a crashed ship according to local tales.

Extremely devoted to their owner, Curlies will often form a strong bond with one person in the household. Not known to be couch potatoes, this breed loves nothing more than swimming after tennis balls. Learn about their grooming and exercise requirements here.

Sometimes called a wiener dog or sausage dog due to its elongated shape, the Dachshund is the 6th most popular breed in the U.S. Daxies may have originated from Ancient Egypt. Find out more about them here.

Instantly recognizable by their spotty bodies, Dalmatians are fun and energetic dogs who fit in well with active families. They are very intelligent but can be stubborn, and though generally healthy they can often suffer from deafness. Find out more here.

Named after a character in a 19th century novel, the Dandie Dinmont is a true terrier, and can be recognized by its long, low body. With either a pepper or mustard coat, Dandies are a solid little breed. Learn more here.

Often seen as guard dogs or police dogs, the Doberman is also a popular and loyal pet. Dobes are often recognized with their black and tan coats, cropped ears and docked tail. Read more about them here.

English Setters are known for their sweet nature and speckled coats. They adore children, need a lot of exercise, and can be sensitive to harsh training. Find out if Setters are suited to you here.

Not a breed to be called a 'couch potato', the English Springer Spaniel is a high-energy dog with a hunting background. Great with children but probably not for the elderly, the Springer is a happy and friendly dog. Find out more about Springers here.

Nicknamed "Flatties", this English breed of dog is always optimistic and happy. They're a great companion for active people and are excellent with children. Learn about training and caring for Flatties here.

A slightly aloof dog with a mischievous streak, the Foxie is a great watchdog who is both loyal and entertaining for his owners. Read more here.

Are you looking for a dog that's clownish, comical and a wonderful companion? The French Bulldog is all this as well as charming and sweet, and they make great family pets. Find out more about their personality and specific care requirements here.

From 1925-28, the German Shepherd was the most popular purebred dog in the US, likely thanks to the movie, Man From Hell's River featuring Rin Tin Tin. Now, GSDs are in the #3 spot.

Athletic and graceful, the German Shorthaired Pointer was originally developed as a hunting dog. Their affectionate nature now makes them a popular pet, placing them in the top 20 registered breeds with the AKC. Read more about GSPs here.

Golden Retrievers are currently the 4th most popular purebred dog in the States. Read more about the qualities that make the Retriever such a popular dog.

A loyal, faithful dog who despite his high exercise needs is an easy family dog. Gordons would love to hunt all day long.

Sweet-tempered, gentle giant.

An affectionate and calm dog, the Greyhound is known for it's speed and racing, but suprisingly not nearly as high-energy as you may think! Ex-racing Greyhounds are often euthanized once their days at the track are over, so there are many in need of adoption. Find out more about Greyhounds here.

These silky-haired little dogs are highly affectionate and can become very attached to their families. They far prefer a couch to a kennel, and can live happily in an apartment. Read more to see if a Havanese suits you.

The Ibizan Hound is a well-mannered and graceful dog that's affectionately called a "Beezer". Sensitive to the cold and sometimes stubborn, they are an intelligent breed with a great ability to jump! Find out more here.

The Irish Setter is a lively and sociable dog, sometimes referred to as a Red Setter. They need an active family who can give them the exercise they require, as well as an owner who will tend to their daily grooming needs. Find out more about the Irish Setter here.

With a top speed of 25mph, Italian Greyhounds make quick yet very affectionate canine companions. IGs are intelligent but sensitive and remain playful past puppyhood. Find out more about this delicate breed here.

Spunky and full of boundless energy, the Jack Russell Terrier (JRT) is a compact dog with a keen hunting sense. They are tough and sturdy, as well as stubbornly independent.

Known for a clean and odorless coat, the little Japanese Chin is also a quiet dog. This social breed has a history as a lapdog, so loves being around people, but don't take to training very well. Find out more here.

Keeshonds are social dogs that love being involved in family activities, but can be difficult to train. Find out here how to take care of their fluffy coat and other helpful information.

The Labrador Retriever is the most popular dog in the USA, topping the AKC's registration list again! It has held the No. 1 spot since 1991! Find out more about Labs here.

Alert and adaptable little dogs, Lhasa Apsos have a beautiful but high-maintenance coat. Find out more about Lhasa Apsos' fun personalities and grooming needs here.

Lowchens, or "little lion dogs", absolutely love attention and make great family pets. Their attention-seeking behavior can sometimes turn naughty though! Find out more about Lowchens' personalities, needs and health here.

With their dark expressive eyes and sometimes long, flowing coats, Maltese dogs are one of the 20 most popular breeds in the US. As any Maltese owner knows, they can be very energetic and enjoy playing games, and also make a great little companion. Read more here.

One of the largest and most ancient breeds, the Mastiff is a devoted family companion.

Miniature Pinschers are known as "King of the Toy Dogs", and are often described as being a big dog in a small body. Find out more about Min-Pins here.

Lively and loyal, Miniature Schnauzers are quite distinctive in appearance, known for their long beards and eyebrows. They originated in Germany in the 19th century, and are now the 10th most popular breed in the USA. Read more here.

Powerful, massive, loyal, protective, fearless and a bit stubborn, the Neapolitan Mastiff is not an extremely active breed but they do have huge strength. Find out about owning a Neo here.

Once the trusted companions of fishermen, explorers and presidents, Newfoundlands now content themselves with families everywhere. Their love for their people is as big as their bodies.

The Norfolk Terrier is an entertaining and tough little busybody who makes a great family pet. They enjoy short, speedy walks as well as hunting and digging! Find out more about this little terrier here.

An intelligent and independent dog that was developed for hunting, Norwegian Elkhounds also make a good watchdog. They need an energetic and active owner, and also someone confident enough to handle their strong nature. Find out more here.

Big and shaggy, Old English Sheepdogs are highly intelligent but a little stubborn! Their thick coat needs regular grooming and they are prone to eye diseases. Find out more here.

With little heads that look like butterflies, Papillons are a playful and obedient breed. They're small but hardy, and do well in agility contests. Papillons are fairly healthy but need daily grooming. Find out more here.

Hailing from China in 2000 B.C., this charming lapdog has long been a favorite of royalty. Known for being stubborn and a one-person dog, the Pekingese requires daily grooming and cleaning of their face wrinkles. Find out more about caring for Pekes here.

With their distinctive short legs and long body, Pembroke Welsh Corgis were in fact originally a herding dog. This makes them active and intelligent, and even nowadays in the backyard, they still enjoy herding activities, often "rounding up" children! Read more here.

Also referred to as an English Pointer, this breed has boundless energy! Bred to hunt and work, they need a lot of exercise, but also do love laying on a couch in between outings. Learn more about this graceful dog here.

Pomeranians are lively little balls of fluff, but they weren't always so tiny! Originating from a region which is now Germany and Poland, Poms used to be 20-30 pounds but are now usually 3-7! Read more about Pomeranians here.

Poodles come in 3 different sizes - standard, miniature and toy - many colors, and also varied hair styles! Originally from France, they are now popularly bred with other breeds to create "designer" dogs such as Labradoodles and Cockapoos. Find out more about Poodles here.

Known for centuries along Portugal’s coast and prized for its strength, spirit and soundness, the Portuguese Water Dog is a loyal worker and companion. Read on to learn more.

Known for their wrinkly face and curly tail, Pugs were originally bred as lap dogs for Chinese emperors thousands of years ago. They are now the 13th most popular breed in the United States. Find out more about Pugs here.

Pulis are a highly adaptable breed with a very recognizable coat of cords! This coat needs a lot of attention, and Pulis' high energy levels mean they need a lot of exercise as well. Find out more about caring for this Hungarian hound here.

Intelligent and active, the Rat Terrier is most known for its incredible hunting skills. Rat Terriers were bred to scare up rats, and the Rattie's speed proves its skill. A Rat Terrier holds the record for killing the most rats in an infested barn -- 2,501.

Rhodesian Ridgeback puppies can be rather rambunctious, and as an adult they still retain a lot of energy which needs to be channeled into daily exercise. Ridgebacks are courageous and intelligent, and shed very little. Read more here.

Rottweilers come from the country of Germany where their full name is Rottweil Metzgerhund or "Butchers Dog." It is a large breed that’s intelligent, powerful and hardworking.

This enormous Swiss dog is known for his courage and trustworthiness, and makes a wonderful family dog. Saint Bernards require a lot of time and attention - they eat a lot, need a lot of exercise and a large space to live and drool in! Find out more about Saints here.

Known for its speed, the sleek Saluki was originally bred as a hunting dog, and today it remains a breed with a need to run. Although high on energy, Salukis are sensitive dogs. Find out more about caring for Salukis here.

Samoyeds will bring a smile to your household, as well as quite a lot of energy! They demand your attention and also need time spent on their luxurious coats but will give you many happy hours in return. Find out more here.

Schipperkes originally come from Belgium and are little busy-bodies who love attention! Soft and fluffy, they are usually black and need weekly brushing. Find out more about how to care for your devoted little Schipperke here.

While Scottish Terriers are known for their loyalty, bravery and determination, they are also sensitive but stubborn dogs. Find out more about caring for a Scottie here.

Shar Peis are easily recognized by their wrinkley coat, though their wrinkles do stretch out the older they get! Shar Peis are independent and calm, are a good family dog but require a confident owner. Find out more about caring for a Shar Pei here.

The Shetland Sheepdogs looks like a miniature Collie, but they are in fact a separate breed. They originated on the Shetland Islands off Scotland where they herded sheep. Easy to train, they are great with children and make popular family pets. Find out more here.

Shih Tzu dogs are the 9th most popular breed in America. They originated in China, and is one of the oldest breeds. Characterized by their long flowing coat and lively personality, they can also make good watch dogs. Read more here.

Siberian Huskies are often associated with sled-pulling, but propspective owners should also be aware that Huskies are known for being great escape artists! This breed suts outdoor, active owners and they often enjoy "talking" with their master. Find out more about husky traits here.

The Spinone is an Italian breed dating back to 500BC, known for their coarse coat which often carries around mud and other muck! A great dog for energetic families, the Spinone is intelligent and devoted though sometimes sensitive. Find out more here.

The Hungarian Vizsla is loyal and protective with a lot of energy that can turn into mischief if not given enough exercise and play. Vizslas can be quite "talkative" and live for about 12 years. Find out more here.

Weimaraners are striking looking dogs and delightful companions, made famous through the photogrpahic work of William Wegman. This breed needs a strong owner who can handle the Weimaraner's stubborn personality. Find out about their exercise requirements and more here.

The West Highland White Terrier is a feisty and lively little dog who needs exciting obedience training to hold their short attention spans. Westies, as they are commonly known, can live for about 15 years and make good watchdogs too with their high-pitched bark. Find out more about Westies here.

Shaggy, goofy and full of life, the Wheaten is sometimes referred to as the Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier. They can be high maintenance and a little too rowdy for small children, but Wheatens will show you lots of love when you make them a part of the family. Find out more.

Considered perfect all-purpose dogs, Whippets are quiet and gentle in the home but intense speed demons when racing.

The Yorkshire Terrier, or "Yorkie", became the second most popular purebred dog in 2006, according to AKC registrations. It's the first time in several decades since a small dog has been so high on the list. Find out why the Yorkie is so popular.