Size

Energy

Shedding

Breed & nickname	Temperament sketch	Size	Energy	Shedding	Family fit	Care & exercise	Health watch
Golden RetrieverGoldie	Famously friendly and sweet-natured. A patient and eager-to-please companion that retains a joyful, puppyish demeanor into adulthood.	Large	High	Heavy	Shines with children and multi-person homes as long as daily connection is offered.	Two purposeful walks plus retrieve games keep joints and mind satisfied.	High risk for various cancers. Prone to hip/elbow dysplasia, heart conditions, and eye problems. Monitor for ear infections and skin allergies.
Cavalier King Charles SpanielCav	Soft-natured lapdog that stays cheerful, observant, and people focused.	Small	Moderate	Moderate	Ideal for calmer apartments or retirees, yet gentle enough for respectful kids.	Short sniff walks plus indoor play twice a day keep weight controlled.	CRITICAL NOTE: This breed suffers from severe genetic issues. The leading cause of death is Mitral Valve Disease (MVD). A painful neurological condition called Syringomyelia (SM) is also very common. Also prone to hip dysplasia and eye problems.
Bernese Mountain DogBerner	A calm, good-natured Swiss drafting dog that is patient and gentle, but can be reserved with strangers.	Large	Moderate	Heavy	Best for families that enjoy cozy evenings, cool climates, and structured gentle training.	Plan two moderate strolls plus carting practice or nose-work a few times weekly.	This breed has a short lifespan (7-10 years) and a high rate of cancer. Prone to bloat, hip/elbow dysplasia, and eye problems. Monitor for overheating.
NewfoundlandNewfie	Massive water rescuer with gentle babysitter vibes and dependable nerves.	Large	Low	Heavy	Works for waterfront households that can manage drool, swimming, and slow strolls.	Schedule buoyant swims, hydrotherapy trots, and shaded naps to protect joints.	Prone to hip/elbow dysplasia, bloat, and heart conditions like Subaortic Stenosis (SAS). Also at risk for a genetic condition called Cystinuria. Manage weight to ease joint strain.
English Cocker SpanielCocker	Merry sporting spaniel that blends silky affection with polite enthusiasm.	Medium	Moderate	Moderate	Great for families seeking gentle playmates who still enjoy weekend hikes and training.	Offer daily sniff walks, short retrieve games, and ear-drying routines after play.	Prone to ear infections, hip dysplasia, and eye problems like PRA. Screen for a fatal kidney disease called Familial Nephropathy (FN). Keep weight trim.
Great PyreneesPyr	A gentle, independent livestock guardian that is calm and patient, but often reserved or wary of strangers.	Large	Low	Heavy	Matches patient families with secure yards and an appreciation for nocturnal patrol habits.	Provide slow boundary walks, light cart pulling, and daily brushing to manage the coat.	Prone to bloat, hip/elbow dysplasia, bone cancer (osteosarcoma), and eye problems. Check double dewclaws and keep weight lean.
Saint BernardBernie	Massive, patient nanny dog that stays calm yet attentive to every family need.	Large	Moderate	Heavy	Needs spacious homes with handlers who manage drool care, manners, and slow daily walks.	Offer two gentle strolls plus cart-pulling or balance games to keep joints limber.	This breed has a short lifespan (8-10 years). Prone to bloat, hip/elbow dysplasia, heart conditions (like DCM), and bone cancer. Monitor for overheating.
Clumber SpanielClumber	A low-key sporting dog with gentle humor and loyalty. Can be reserved or aloof with strangers.	Medium	Moderate	Heavy	Great for relaxed households that enjoy nose-work strolls and mellow training sessions.	Keep daily sniff walks under an hour, add swimming or puzzle feeders for extra stimulation.	Prone to hip dysplasia and Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD). Also at risk for eye problems like entropion/ectropion. Keep ears dry and monitor weight to protect joints.
Basset HoundBasset	Charming lounge partner with soulful eyes, comic timing, and a stubborn streak.	Medium	Low	Moderate	Fits easygoing families who enjoy slow walks, scent games, and cozy downtime.	Provide two leisurely walks plus supervised sniff trails to prevent weight gain.	Prone to Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD); always support their long back. High risk for bloat, ear infections, and eye problems. Clean facial folds and monitor for obesity.
Great DaneGentle Giant	The 'Apollo of Dogs'. A gentle giant that is friendly, patient, and dependable. Loves to lean on people.	Large	Moderate	Moderate	Wonderful family dog, but their sheer size requires space and supervision with small children (accidental knock-overs).	Needs moderate exercise; avoid vigorous activity around meal times to prevent bloat.	Prone to bloat (GDV), cardiomyopathy, and hip dysplasia. Short lifespan compared to smaller breeds.
Shetland SheepdogSheltie	Bright, playful, and sensitive. Highly trainable and eager to please, but can be reserved with strangers.	Small	High	Heavy	Excellent family dog that gets along well with children and other pets. Thrives on companionship.	Needs regular mental and physical exercise. Heavy shedder that requires frequent brushing.	Prone to 'Collie Eye Anomaly', hip dysplasia, and thyroid issues. Sensitive to certain drugs (MDR1 gene).
French BulldogFrenchie	A low-key clown and alert companion that loves being with people, but can be stubborn and prone to separation anxiety.	Small	Low	Moderate	Tailor-made for city lofts and busy workers who can offer short but frequent check-ins.	Two shaded strolls and light puzzle games keep them lean without overheating.	Their flat face causes Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome (BOAS), requiring care to avoid overheating. Prone to Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD), hip/knee issues, and eye conditions. Clean skin folds daily and always use a harness.
Bichon FriseBichon	A bubbly lap companion that loves greeting guests and practicing tricks. Can be prone to separation anxiety if left alone.	Small	Moderate	Low	Happy with allergy-conscious families or first-time owners who enjoy grooming time.	Indoor play plus two brisk 15-minute walks satisfy their curious nature.	Prone to skin allergies, bladder stones, and ear infections. Schedule regular coat trims, clean tear stains, and check knees for patella issues.
PugPug	A comedic, expressive charmer, often called a 'velcro dog.' Prefers being with people but can have a stubborn streak.	Small	Low	Heavy	Perfect for studio dwellers who can supervise climate control and gentle routines.	Offer multiple shaded potty walks plus snuffle mats or gentle tug indoors.	Prone to Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome (BOAS). High risk of eye issues, skin fold infections, and dental disease. Also at risk for Pug Dog Encephalitis (PDE) and orthopedic issues like IVDD and hip dysplasia.
Boston TerrierBoston	Jaunty tuxedo dog that blends clownish energy with polite house manners, though they can have a stubborn streak.	Small	Moderate	Low	Fits busy professionals wanting a cheerful roommate that still enjoys scooter walks.	Plan indoor trick sessions, hallway fetch, and two brisk but brief outdoor walks.	Their flat face causes Brachycephalic Syndrome (breathing issues), making them prone to overheating. Check for eye ulcers and patellar luxation. Other risks include hip dysplasia, hemivertebrae (spinal deformity), deafness, and allergies.
Toy PoodleToy Poodle	A quick-learning companion that loves routines and puzzles. They are prone to separation anxiety if left alone too often.	Small	Moderate	Low	A good choice for some allergy sufferers. Great for apartments or digital nomads who bring a tidy dog to co-working spaces.	Pair two brisk walks with trick training, perch work, and regular coat maintenance.	Prone to dental disease, tracheal collapse, patellar luxation, and eye/heart issues. Their coat requires daily brushing and frequent professional grooming.
Miniature DachshundMini Dax	A curious tunnel dog with a bold voice, an independent and stubborn streak, and a surprising cuddly side indoors.	Small	Moderate	Moderate	Works for city families who can manage stairs with ramps and respect their independent streak.	Mix short sniff walks, indoor scent puzzles, and controlled digging boxes for enrichment.	Highly prone to Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD); prevent jumping off furniture. Also at risk for obesity, dental issues, and eye problems. Keep core muscles strong.
Shiba InuShiba	A foxlike free-thinker that stays tidy and alert. Can be moderately aloof with strangers and is known for the 'Shiba scream'.	Small	Moderate	Heavy	Best for experienced owners who value cleanliness and consistent boundaries. Not ideal for first-time dog owners.	Provide daily structured walks, urban hiking, and independent chew projects to satisfy their mind.	Prone to allergies (atopy), patellar luxation, hip dysplasia, eye problems (like glaucoma & PRA), and hypothyroidism. Brush double coat weekly.
Yorkshire TerrierYorkie	Spark-plug lapdog with terrier courage, sharp hearing, and curious problem solving.	Small	Moderate	Low	Thrives in city homes that keep grooming routines, elevator etiquette, and daily training games.	Split three short sniff walks with indoor tug or trick sessions to balance mind and body.	Prone to dental disease, hypoglycemia (low blood sugar), and tracheal collapse (use a harness). Also at risk for patellar luxation, Legg-Calvé-Perthes disease, liver shunt, and eye problems.
Italian GreyhoundIggy	Delicate sprinter that alternates zoomies with long snuggles and thrives on gentle reassurance.	Small	Moderate	Low	Best for quiet apartments willing to provide sweaters, indoor potty spots, and positive-only lessons.	Plan three brisk hallway walks plus lure-chasing games on soft footing to protect legs.	Their delicate legs are prone to fractures. Also at risk for dental disease, Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA), and patellar luxation. Keep nails short and warm them with layers.
Coton de TuléarCoton	A bouncy, cotton-coated clown bred for companionship. They are people-focused but can be prone to separation anxiety.	Small	Moderate	Low	Shines in condominiums that keep coat care schedules and invite the dog to every family errand.	Alternate puzzle training, brief courtyard trots, and stroller rides to avoid overstimulation.	Prone to hip dysplasia, patellar luxation, and spinal disc disease. Daily brushing, watching for tear stains, and keeping ear canals dry are all essential.
ChihuahuaChi	A tiny dog with a huge personality. Fiercely loyal to their special person and often sassy with strangers.	Small	Moderate	Moderate	Perfect for apartment dwellers who want a constant companion and can respect their delicate size.	Short indoor play sessions and brief walks are enough; keep them warm in cold weather.	Prone to dental disease, hypoglycemia, collapsing trachea, and patellar luxation. Fontanel (soft spot on head) may stay open.
PomeranianPom	A cocky, animated puffball that thinks it's a big dog. Alert, curious, and loves to be the center of attention.	Small	Moderate	Heavy	Great for families with older children or singles who can manage grooming and barking.	Daily brushing is a must. Short walks and indoor play satisfy their exercise needs.	Prone to luxating patellas, collapsing trachea, dental issues, and alopecia X (black skin disease).
MalteseMaltese	Gentle, playful, and charming. A classic lap dog that is fearless yet affectionate.	Small	Moderate	Low	Ideal for refined households looking for a glamorous, devoted companion.	Requires daily combing to prevent mats. Indoor games and short strolls keep them happy.	Prone to dental disease, luxating patellas, and shaker syndrome. Tear staining is common and requires eye care.
Shih TzuShih Tzu	Affectionate, happy, and outgoing house dog. Bred solely to be a companion, they love nothing more than being with people.	Small	Low	Low	Excellent for seniors and apartments. They adapt well to various living situations as long as they are loved.	Daily grooming is essential if coat is long. Short daily walks and indoor play are sufficient.	Prone to eye issues, hip dysplasia, and brachycephalic syndrome (breathing issues). Keep cool in hot weather.
Pembroke Welsh CorgiCorgi	A big dog in a small package. Smart, alert, and affectionate, but can be bossy and vocal.	Small	Moderate	Heavy	Fits active families who can provide mental stimulation and don't mind shedding.	Needs moderate daily exercise; long walks and slow jogs are great. Avoid jumping to protect back.	Prone to Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD), hip dysplasia, and eye issues. Watch weight carefully to reduce back strain.
Labrador RetrieverLab	Famously friendly, outgoing, and affectionate. An enthusiastic and even-tempered companion ideal for families.	Large	High	Heavy	Thrives with sporty families who schedule swims, hikes, or dock-diving practice.	Two 30-minute power walks plus retrieve drills or swimming sessions burn energy safely.	Prone to obesity; keep weight controlled. Be aware of risks for Hip/Elbow Dysplasia, bloat, eye conditions like PRA, and Exercise-Induced Collapse (EIC).
Border CollieBC	An intense, intelligent problem-solver that craves jobs and daily brain work. Can be reserved with strangers and may try to 'herd' children or other pets.	Medium	High	Moderate	Best with handlers who enjoy structured training, dog sports, or farm-style projects.	Combine long-line hikes, agility drills, and scent games to avoid boredom.	Be aware of genetic risks like Collie Eye Anomaly (CEA), hip dysplasia, epilepsy, and the MDR1 gene mutation (drug sensitivity). Offer rest days after intense work.
Siberian HuskyHusky	Social, vocal, and famously independent; thrives when running with a group.	Medium	High	Heavy	Suited to adventurous households with secure yards and time for cool-weather outings.	Daily runs, bikejoring, or pulling sports plus mental chew work prevent mischief.	Prone to eye conditions like cataracts and PRA. Be aware of risks for hip dysplasia and hypothyroidism. Brush undercoat during sheds and monitor for overheating.
Australian ShepherdAussie	An agile, intelligent dog that reads handler cues instantly and insists on purposeful work. Can be reserved with strangers and may try to 'herd' children.	Medium	High	Moderate	Pairs best with hobby farmers or sport handlers who schedule daily training blocks.	Rotate herding drills, disc sessions, and trail runs to channel energy.	Screen for hip/elbow dysplasia, eye disorders (like PRA & cataracts), epilepsy, and MDR1 drug sensitivity. Brush double coat weekly.
German Shorthaired PointerGSP	An intelligent, eager-to-please gun dog with nonstop stamina. Forms strong bonds but can have separation anxiety.	Medium	High	Moderate	Thrives with joggers, upland hunters, or active guardians who enjoy structure.	Plan long jogs, field searches, and water retrieves at least five days a week.	Screen for bloat risk, hip/elbow dysplasia, eye disorders like PRA, and heart conditions like Subaortic Stenosis. Check ears after swims.
VizslaVelcro Vizsla	Sensitive pointer that shadows its people and works with endless drive.	Medium	High	Low	Best for households that enjoy constant companionship and structured athletic outlets.	Daily tempo runs, tracking games, and cuddle cool-downs keep them balanced.	Prone to hip dysplasia, epilepsy, autoimmune diseases, and bloat. Protect their short coat from sunburn. Keep nails short for traction.
Belgian MalinoisMalinois	Intense guardian with laser focus, bred to make fast decisions under pressure.	Medium	High	Moderate	Only suitable for expert handlers committed to daily bite, obedience, and impulse work.	Blend IPO-style drills, treadmill trots, and decompression sniff walks to prevent misbehavior.	Prone to hip/elbow dysplasia, bloat, and eye problems. Keep joints supported, rotate surfaces to save paw pads, and prioritize mental decompression.
Australian Cattle DogHeeler	A hardy drover with bold problem-solving skills, a loyal streak toward their person, and often wary of strangers.	Medium	High	Moderate	Excels with rural families or van-life workers who can supervise constant motion.	Use bike trots, stock-work simulations, and rugged hikes to keep their mind satisfied.	Be aware of risks for hip/elbow dysplasia, eye disorders like Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA), and hereditary deafness. Protect paws from abrasive surfaces and manage weight tightly.
WeimaranerGray Ghost	A driven, people-focused hunter, often called a 'Velcro dog'. Thrives on structured challenges but is prone to separation anxiety if left alone.	Large	High	Moderate	Best for sporty households that schedule long runs, field drills, and consistent training boundaries.	Mix tempo runs, tracking games, and varied-terrain fetch sessions to safely drain energy.	Screen for hip dysplasia and bloat risk. Be aware of potential thyroid and cardiac conditions. Protect their short coat from sunburn.
DalmatianSpotty	An alert endurance athlete, often called a 'velcro dog'. Mixes clownish charm with a protective streak, but can be prone to separation anxiety.	Medium	High	Heavy	Matches energetic families ready for jogging buddies, obstacle courses, and structured manners.	Provide daily distance runs, scent puzzles, and cooling breaks during warm weather.	Prone to hereditary deafness and forming urinary stones (due to a unique uric acid metabolism). Also at risk for skin allergies and Dilated Cardiomyopathy (DCM). Keep lean to protect joints.
Rhodesian RidgebackRidgeback	An even-keeled athlete with a strong prey drive and loyal guarding instincts. Often reserved and aloof with strangers.	Large	High	Moderate	Best with confident handlers who enjoy distance hiking, lure coursing, and firm boundaries.	Rotate canicross, hill sprints, and scent work; provide windbreaks after cool-weather runs.	Screen for Dermoid Sinus (a congenital issue), hip/elbow dysplasia, and thyroid issues. Manage meal timing to avoid bloat. Protect pads on hot surfaces.
German Shepherd DogGSD	Confident, courageous, and smart. A versatile worker that is fiercely loyal to family but aloof with strangers.	Large	High	Heavy	Best for active families who can provide mental challenges and consistent training.	Needs vigorous daily exercise and mental work. Agility, obedience, or tracking are excellent outlets.	Prone to hip/elbow dysplasia, bloat, and degenerative myelopathy. Watch for digestive issues.
BeagleBeagle	Merry, friendly, and curious. A scent hound that follows its nose everywhere, which can lead to selective hearing.	Medium	High	Moderate	Great family dogs but need patience with training and a secure yard (they are escape artists).	Long sniff walks are essential. Keep on leash unless in a fenced area due to prey drive.	Prone to obesity, ear infections, epilepsy, and cherry eye. Keep ears clean and dry.
BoxerBoxer	Fun-loving, bright, and active. Patient with children but protective of the family.	Large	High	Moderate	Excellent for active families who want a silly but protective guardian.	Needs daily vigorous exercise to prevent boredom. Avoid exercise in extreme heat.	Prone to cancer, heart conditions (Boxer Cardiomyopathy), and bloat. Brachycephalic traits mean heat sensitivity.
RottweilerRottie	A robust working dog of great strength. Confident, calm, and courageous, but aloof with strangers.	Large	Moderate	Moderate	Requires experienced owners dedicated to socialization and training. Not for first-time owners.	Daily walks and play sessions are needed. Mental stimulation is key to a happy Rottie.	Prone to hip/elbow dysplasia, bloat, and heart issues. Obesity is a risk, so watch diet.
Doberman PinscherDobie	Sleek, powerful, and loyal. A fearless guardian that is affectionate with family.	Large	High	Moderate	Best for active families who want a highly trainable protector and companion.	Requires vigorous exercise and mental challenges. They bond closely and dislike being alone.	Prone to Dilated Cardiomyopathy (DCM), Wobbler Syndrome, and Von Willebrand's Disease. Bloat is also a risk.
Standard PoodlePoodle	Highly intelligent and eager to please, but can be prone to separation anxiety. An athletic and people-focused dog with a stylish sense of duty.	Large	High	Low	Great for allergy-aware households. Their curly coat traps dander, but no dog is 100% hypoallergenic. They are a versatile sport partner.	Weekly coat maintenance plus swimming or trot sessions two to three times a week.	Coat requires professional grooming or diligent home clipping. Prone to bloat, hip dysplasia, Addison's disease, and eye disorders. Keep ears dry to prevent infection.
Miniature SchnauzerMini Schnauzer	Alert terrier spirit packed into a loyal, chatty, low-shed package, though they can have a stubborn streak.	Small	Moderate	Low	Fits condos or townhomes needing a polite watchdog that still enjoys play.	Daily brisk walks plus nose-work or trick sessions keep their mind satisfied.	Prone to pancreatitis, bladder stones, eye problems, and diabetes. Hand-strip or trim coat regularly and clean beard after meals.
Portuguese Water DogPortie	An energetic seafaring worker that is people-focused and eager to solve tasks, but can be prone to separation anxiety.	Medium	High	Low	Ideal for coastal or lake families who need an allergy-friendly dog that loves boats.	Rotate dock diving, obedience drills, and endurance swims three to four times weekly.	Prone to hip dysplasia, eye disorders like PRA, Addison's disease, and GM1 Storage Disease. Dry ears thoroughly after swims.
Lagotto RomagnoloLagotto	Thoughtful truffle hunter with a curly coat and steady, people-pleasing focus.	Medium	Moderate	Low	A good choice for some allergy sufferers. Suits families who enjoy nose-work games and want an active, compact sport partner.	Provide daily scent puzzles, off-leash recalls in safe zones, and routine coat trimming.	Prone to hip dysplasia, juvenile epilepsy, lysosomal storage diseases, and Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA). Keep ears dry and detangle curls before mats form.
Soft Coated Wheaten TerrierWheaten	A bouncy, family-friendly Irish terrier that greets everyone like family, though they can have a stubborn streak.	Medium	Moderate	Low	Great for upbeat families wanting a playful watchdog that still works for allergy concerns.	Brush and line-comb daily, add brisk walks, and offer interactive tug sessions.	Prone to Protein-Losing Enteropathy (PLE) and Nephropathy (PLN), Addison’s disease, and renal dysplasia. Daily grooming is required to prevent mats.
Irish Water SpanielIWS	Curly clown of the marsh that stays loyal, eager, and slightly mischievous in the house.	Medium	High	Low	A good choice for some allergy sufferers. Pairs with swimmers, paddleboarders, or hunters who want an energetic water partner.	Alternate water retrieves, field hikes, and obedience games to burn energy safely.	Prone to hip/elbow dysplasia, eye problems, and hypothyroidism. May have sensitivity to certain drugs like Ivermectin. Dry ears thoroughly after swims.
Xoloitzcuintli (in Toy, Miniature, and Standard sizes)Xolo	A calm, thoughtful guardian that bonds closely with family but is often wary of strangers. Prefers predictable, low-shed living.	Medium	Moderate	Low	Great for minimalist homes that manage wardrobe layers and sun care. Often chosen by allergy sufferers, but no dog is 100% hypoallergenic.	Use layered sweaters for walks, gentle obedience drills, and sun-safe backyard sniffing.	Moisturize skin and protect from sun/cold. Missing teeth are normal for the hairless variety, not a flaw. Prone to acne as puppies. Screen for hip, knee, and eye issues.
Bedlington TerrierLamb Dog	A curious, springy terrier with a lamb-like coat and surprising athletic grit, but can have a stubborn side.	Small	Moderate	Low	Great for tidy households that want a low-odor athlete for rally, lure coursing, or casual jogging.	Blend sprint intervals, nose-work puzzles, and weekly hand-stripping to keep the coat tidy.	Test for Copper Toxicosis (a liver disease). Prone to eye problems like retinal dysplasia, as well as patellar luxation and kidney issues.
Giant SchnauzerGiant	A serious, high-drive guardian bred for patrol work. Always watching, ready to learn, and can be wary of strangers.	Large	High	Low	Requires experienced handlers who schedule protection sports, tracking classes, and daily impulse control.	Alternate IPO-style drills, cart pulls, and scent trails; strip or clip the coat every 4–6 weeks.	Prone to bloat, a life-threatening stomach condition. Screen for hip/elbow dysplasia, thyroid issues, and eye problems like PRA. Keep minds decompressed after duty.
American Hairless TerrierAHT	A cheerful, alert playmate that loves puzzles. They have a strong prey drive, but make close companions for allergy-sensitive families.	Small	High	Low	Ideal for apartments that can supervise indoor play and manage skin care. The hairless variety is a good choice for many allergy sufferers.	Schedule three short walks plus food puzzles; apply sunscreen or shirts before sunny outings.	Hairless variety is prone to sunburn and requires skin care. Be aware of risks for hip/knee orthopedic issues and heart conditions. Missing teeth are normal for the hairless type.