As you may remember, last week we talked about the most popular breeds in America, listing the top ten. The site has pretty pictures of each dog, but not a lot of information, so I’m fleshing out the dog info for you. And asking you to make well-thought-out decisions before bringing home a loving responsibility for yourself and your family.
Today we’ll be taking a look at dogs eleven through 20, listing the pros and cons of each dog. Let’s jump right in!
11. Miniature Schnauzer – What a regal looking dog! Beautiful stance, handsome whiskers, wiry non-shedding coat, protective, these dogs make great pets and great watchdogs. Highly intelligent, meant to be trained, need to be groomed – schnauzers can be work. Heck, any dog is work. Decide what you’re willing to live with and what you love. Miniature schnauzers make good pets.
12. Chihuahua – as Les Nesman used to say, chee-hooah-hooah. One of my good friends has several of these tiny dogs and calls them her Brute Squad. They’re fierce for such tiny things. The pros to these little purse dogs – Chihuahuas, even long-haired, require very little grooming, they are wonderful lap dogs, need little exercise, and they look super cute in sweaters. And diamond studded collars. Cons – they require a gentle touch due to their diminutive size. I’m afraid I’d step on one if I owned it – I’m just clumsy that way.
13. Pomeranian – another toy dog, or purse dog, this fluff ball is an extrovert. Here’s something I didn’t know – Pom’s were originally about 30 pounds, come from what is now Poland, and were used for herding sheep. Bright and outgoing, this little dog makes a good companion. And requires brushing pretty regularly.
14. Rottweiler – my brother-in-law had a rotty for several years, Bear. Bear wasn’t bred well, we think. He chewed up a wooden bunk bed. He would eat corn cobs and powdered laundry detergent. For a bright breed, he was a dumb dog. Beautiful and sweet, but not the sharpest knife in the drawer. Rottweilers are hard working, protective dogs. Medium height with a sturdy build, they watch and wait before jumping in. Typically they are smart dogs, requiring obedience training and plenty of exercise.
15. Pug – any of y’all read Sheldon, the comic strip? Dave Kellett frequently features the pug in his comic and it’s HILARIOUS. The AKC page says they’re “a lot of dog in a small space”. The dog is playful, loving, wants to be near its people, and is adaptable. And sheds, but the fur is short. Their squooshed up noses and bulging eyeballs are so CUTE!!
16. German Shorthair Pointer – This here is a huntin’ dog! Keen sense of smell, brilliant, works with nearly any game you hunt, points, tracks – what’s not to love if you’re a hunter? Almost a no-brainer. These dogs also make great family dogs, but require plenty of exercise.
17. Boston Terrier – One of my favorite breeds, clearly marked, lively, bright, this smallish dog is easily trained and makes a great family pet, as well as indoor dog. I can’t think of any cons for the Boston. The size is perfect, the temperament is gentle, they don’t require grooming or maintenance. They’re the perfect dog.
18. Doberman Pinscher – these dogs have gotten a bum rap. They’re beautiful, gentle medium sized dogs. Fast, muscular, very smart, the Doberman definitely needs training. And if you’re looking for one, please be sure to check out the breeder and it’s parents thoroughly. This dog requires exercise, but is loving and loyal.
19. Shetland Sheepdog – or Sheltie, this miniature collie is a great pet, very sweet, alert, loving. With a LOT of fur. Shelties are working dogs, used for herding, and great at agility. If you’re thinking of a Sheltie, also think training, brushing and exercise. If those three things work for you, this dog makes a GREAT pet.
20. Maltese – the last dog on our list is another toy, or purse, dog. This breed has long, silky hair, which requires grooming. Gentle, affectionate dogs, Maltese are smart and make good companions. They’re also brave and playful. Did I mention that they require regular grooming?
There’s our list! I hope that this helps with your decision making, if you’re looking for a family pet. These descriptions of each breed are loosely gathered from the AKC breed pages. And please, don’t forget to enter my giveaway.
Until I write again …
Flea
P.S. Petey was being cute this morning.
