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›› Directory of Breed of Dogs: A List of All Kinds
of Dog Breeds
Dog Breed Directory: a List of All Kinds of Dog Breeds
Including Small Dog Breeds
Choosing a breed of dog is a big
decision. Different breeds have different temperaments; some
dogs are everyone's best friend, others are affectionate with
their owner and family members but more reserved around other
people. Some are good
with children while other dog breeds are best for adults.
Check out our dog breed directory
at the bottom of this page.
Exercise Requirements
Some dog breeds also have different exercise
requirements. Dogs like Australian
Shepherds require lost of daily exercise, while Great
Danes are big couch potatoes.
Grooming Needs
Grooming needs can also vary with dog breeds.
Some shed a lot while others are low
shedding breeds. Dogs like Bichons and Springer Spaniels
need frequent grooming and regular brushing to keep their
traditional "look," while other breeds such as Labs
can generally get by with just a bath and a nail trim and
an occasional brushing.
Potential Health Issues
There are also some medical issues to consider.
For instance, some dogs are genetically predisposed to hip
dysplasia and this is something you need to look into with
your breeder before you get your dog. Other dog breeds are
prone to skin problems or ear problems.
Do
Your Research
So when you are considering getting a dog,
you need to do your research. It is a good idea to get a book
about all kinds of dog breeds. Talk to friends who have
dogs, as well as dog breeders. Attending a dog show or two
is a good idea. You'll get a chance to see a variety of breeds
in the same place, as well as an opportunity to talk to different
breeders. Getting a dog is a big decision because you are
going to have many years with your pet; you want your dog
to be a good fit for your lifestyle and family situation.
For a more indepth look, read our articles on:
If you decide to buy a purebred dog, be
sure to research breeders carefully and only buy from a
responsible breeder. Avoid "backyard breeders"
that you often see in the newspaper classified ads. By this
we mean Mary and John who have a purebred German Shepherd
and decide to mate it with their friend's German Shepherd
without any knowledge about breeding. If the breeder is not
knowledgeable, you could end up with a dog that has problems
"bred" into him, such as hip dysplasia, skin disorders
and other issues.
Encyclopedia
of Dog Breeds: Profiles of More than 150 Breeds
This is an excellent, highly rated book that discusses each breed's physical
and personality traits, suitability as a pet, information on each breed's vulnerability
to specific health problems, longevity, exercise needs, compatibility with children,
and more.
New
Encyclopedia of the Dog
Another great book that describes 450 different dog breeds including rare breeds
and experimental breeds like the Labradoodle. Lots of photos.
Do
Your Research
This is an excellent, highly rated book that discusses each breed's physical
and personality traits, suitability as a pet, information on each breed's vulnerability
to specific health problems, longevity, exercise needs, compatibility with children,
and more.
