Common Breeds

Example: Border Collie, Australian Shepherd, Belgian Malinois, Corgis.

thrive when given mental challenges and outlets for their drive to “work.”

Potential Downfalls:

• May “herd” kids, other pets, or even cars — which can involve nipping or chasing.

• Can become obsessive about movement (shadows, reflections, spinning).

• High energy and mental needs can overwhelm first-time owners.

EXAMPLE: Beagle, Bloodhound, Basset Hound, Greyhound

Often independent thinkers with a love for following scents. They often need opportunities to sniff, explore, and “hunt” in safe, structured ways.

Potential Downfalls:

• Scent hounds may ignore recall when following a smell.

• Sight hounds may dart after small animals or moving objects.

• Strong prey drive can make them unsafe off-leash without training.

EXAMPLE: Rottweiler, Boxer, Great Pyrenees, Newfoundland

Without a job, they may become restless or overly protective, so structure and purpose are essential.

Potential Downfalls:

• Natural protectiveness can lead to over-guarding if not properly socialized.

• Strength can make them difficult to handle without training.

• May become bored without a “job,” leading to mischief.

EXAMPLE: Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, Maltese, Pomeranian, Shih Tzu

Bred for companionship, thriving on closeness and human interaction. They are often sensitive and very people-oriented.

Potential Downfalls:

• Can develop separation anxiety if left alone often.

• May become overly dependent on one person.

• Prone to “small dog syndrome” if not given boundaries.

EXAMPLE: Labrador Retriever, Golden Retriever, Spaniel breeds, Vizsla

Often energetic, athletic, and bred for hunting and retrieving. Typically are water loving, adore fetch and need to be kept active with games.

Potential Downfalls:

• Without exercise, can become wild and unmanageable.

• Mouthiness from retrieving instinct can turn into chewing household items.

• Can be prone to jumping on people due to excitement.

EXAMPLES: Jack Russell Terrier, Bull Terrier, Airedale Terrier, West Highland White Terrier

Persistent, energetic, unfortunately bred to dig or hunt. They require mental stimulation and outlets for their determination.

Potential Downfalls:

• Tenacity can make them stubborn and difficult to redirect.

• Strong digging and prey drive can be hard to control.

• Can become reactive toward other animals.