Consider whether you can live with a dog that howls. Beagles love to howl, and they can even get creative about varying their howls based upon what they want to communicate. For example, a short howl might mean, "I am ready to come inside," while ... more >>

Consider a German Shepherd if you need a guard dog or simply enjoy the company of a large dog. It is important to remember, however, if not properly trained, a German Shepherd can be mean to you and your family. A well-trained German Shepherd gets ... more >>

Choose a Cocker Spaniel if you are looking for a family pet. The Cocker Spaniel does well in a family environment, generally like children and tolerate other pets. It was originally bred as a bird dog and makes good hunting companions, but also ... more >>

Living with a Labrador Puppy Look into your puppy’s adorable eyes, and lower your standards of cleanliness, of landscaping, of punctuality, of how smelly you are willing to be. Sign up for puppy ... more >>

Notice the size of the dog. American Eskimo dogs vary in size more than other breeds, but the standard American Eskimo dog is always between 15 and 19 inches tall at the shoulders. It has a strong, thick build and usually weighs between 20 and 35 ... more >>

Search in shelters and local pounds. Unless you have your heart set on a new puppy, check around for an older dog that needs a home. Adopting an older dog will give you all of the love and devotion, without having to worry about house training and ... more >>

Take into consideration a blue heeler's features. A good breed will have straight front legs as you are facing it, ears that are pricked and moderately pointed, eyes that are dark brown and oval and an even red speckle on the coat, without any ... more >>

Consider a border collie if you are looking for an active dog, and you know you will have the time to exercise and train it. Border collies make excellent companions for runners and hikers, as they rarely tire. ... more >>

Know that a pug is often considered the clown of the dog world and will do just about anything to be the center of attention. If you want to read the newspaper instead of playing don’t be surprised if your pug plants himself in your lap blocking ... more >>

Consider a Great Dane if you're looking for a loyal watchdog. Size alone should prove intimidating to strangers. Choose a Great Dane if you have children or other pets. These dogs get along well with ... more >>

Be careful about choosing a bullmastiff if you have other pets in the house. These dogs tend to get along well with other animals if trained to do so at an early age, but the bullmastiff can also be aggressive. Two males won't get along, and two ... more >>

Think about whether you can keep the dog indoors for the vast majority of the day. Retired racing greyhounds have never lived outdoors. Because of their thin coats and very little body fat, their bodies are not well suited for outdoor life. ... more >>

Consider adopting a greyhound from a pet rescue organization. Because they are bred to race, many end up in shelters at an old age. These dogs are easy to housebreak because they have already been trained as racing dogs. ... more >>

Choose a husky if you want an affectionate, loyal and friendly companion. Huskies are not aggressive and make poor watchdogs because of their friendly dispositions. Try a Siberian if you're looking ... more >>

Choose an Akita if you want an intelligent, loyal, affectionate companion. They are aggressive and make good watchdogs. Akitas don't bark without a good reason. Try this breed if you're looking for a ... more >>

Choose a German shepherd if you want an intelligent, loyal and hard-working companion. They make excellent watchdogs. Remember that they are eager to please and enjoy their training. Be sure to ... more >>

Don't hesitate to choose a boxer if you have children. These warm, loyal dogs are very protective of children and love to play. Select a boxer if you are looking for a friendly, obedient dog. Boxers, ... more >>

Choose a Bernese mountain dog if you want a dog that will be gentle and loving with your children. These dogs enjoy playing with and protecting children. They also get along well with other animals. ... more >>

Vaccinate your border collie when you first get it, and then get yearly booster vaccinations to maintain the dog's immunity to diseases. Worm your adult dog every three months, and consult your veterinarian about flea control products. ... more >>

Choose a golden retriever if you want an affectionate, loyal and friendly companion. They are not aggressive and make poor watchdogs because of their friendly dispositions. This, however, makes them good family dogs. They are excellent with ... more >>

Have your Chihuahua vaccinated, and follow with yearly booster vaccinations to maintain the dog's immunity to disease. Consult your veterinarian about flea control products and worming your dog. Feed ... more >>

Give your Manchester Terrier loads of attention. This breed wants to be part of your family and refuses to be ignored. Keep your dog out of extreme weather. His short coat doesn't provide enough ... more >>

Spay or neuter your Labradoodle for a longer, healthier life. Spaying your female before the first heat period will prevent breast cancer and help eliminate the risk of uterine infections. Neutering your male before age 4 will prevent ... more >>

Have your basenji vaccinated when you first get him, and then have him get yearly booster vaccinations along with fecal tests (for worms) to maintain his immunity to disease. Consult your veterinarian about flea prevention products. ... more >>

Take your Maltese for regular medical check-ups, including eye exams and keep vaccinations current. Clean your Maltese’s teeth regularly, including a professional scaling. Ask your vet for a ... more >>