Some Popular Breeds of Dog in the United States

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LABRADOR RETRIEVER

The Labrador Retriever is originally from Newfoundland, which is why it is often called a “Newfie.” It is among the oldest of the modern recognized breeds, and is the most popular breed of dog in the U.S. Labs are loyal, loving, affectionate and patient, and make a great family dog. They are wonderful with children as they have a reliable temperament and are very friendly. They like to feel that they are part of the family. Labs are easy to train and love to play and swim. Labs also excel as guide dogs for the blind, as part of search-and-rescue teams, or in narcotics detection with law enforcement.

In Newfoundland, Labrador Retrievers were initially used in work alongside fisherman, helping to pull in nets and catch fish that escaped from fishing lines. Their stable temperament is suitable for a variety of purposes beyond hunting. The breed was eventually crossed with setters, spaniels and other types of retrievers to improve their instincts as a hunter.

Because they are friendly rather than aggressive with people they do not know, they should probably not be used as guard dogs. They would not view an intruder as suspicious. Labs should always have clearly marked identification tags since they have a natural curiosity and a desire for companionship, which may drive them to leave their home premises.

Labs are distinguished by their short, dense coat, powerful jaws and friendly eyes which express their character, intelligence and good temperament. The adult male lab weighs from 65 to 80 pounds; the female weighs from 55 to 70 pounds. Unfortunately, the Labrador Retriever is prone to hip and elbow dysplasia as well as ear infections and eye disorders. Because they are highly energetic, they need to be taken on a daily brisk long walk. They can gain weight easily, so care should be taken not to overfeed. The breed's life expectancy is 10-12 years.

JACK RUSSELL TERRIER

Jack Russell was a clergyman in England in the mid-1800's who bred a terrier to hunt foxes and other small game. The dogs were originally called fox terriers. After Reverend Russell's death, the terrier was called the Jack Russell Terrier to distinguish the smaller breed of dog from other fox terriers.

Jacks are happy, bold and energetic dogs. They are extremely loyal as well as intelligent but can be assertive. They make wonderful family pets, getting along well with children. Although they can adapt to a variety of environments, Jack Russells have been bred first and foremost to be hunting dogs. Apartment living or confined quarters do not appeal to the terrier.

Jack Russells engage in funny antics which continually amuse their family. They love to perform tricks. They seem to require an unusually large amount of attention, outdoor activity, exercise and discipline. However, it must be understood and accepted that they are hunting dogs. Their natural hunting instinct brings out their innate aggression towards other small animals such as cats, gerbils, guinea pigs, etc. Therefore, Jacks should never be left unattended when other animals are present. They are afraid of nothing.

Jack Russells should be taken on a long walk daily. If they are not adequately exercised, they can become a nuisance. Some experts have stated that only experienced dog handlers should own a Jack Russell as they can demonstrate a fierce, headstrong independence. They especially need space to run, play and even hunt. Alternately, they have a kind and gentle nature and are friendly with small children if the child is taught how to handle the terrier properly. They should always be kept on a leash when out for a walk. They are unusually fast, plus they have an intense curiosity and a fearlessness that could get them into trouble with bigger dogs.

Healthy Jack Russells can live as long as 15 years. They are susceptible to cataracts and joint problems, but are generally bothered with relatively few health issues. Their color is typically white with black, tan or brown.

P PEKINGESE

The Pekingese is one of the oldest breeds of dog, dating back to the eighth century in Peking, China. Chinese nobles bred the smallest Peke which was under 6 pounds; they were referred to as sleeve dogs because they could be carried in the wide sleeves of their masters' garments.

Pekingese dogs are beautiful and tend to attach to one person only, making them an excellent apartment dog or a companion for an older person living alone. They love to walk outside and barking is never a problem unless they are crated. They are easy to fall in love with.

One of the Peke's obvious characteristics is its flat face. It also has long, heart-shaped ears. It has a heavy double coat with a thick mane, giving it a lion-like appearance. The nose, lips and outline of the eyes of the Pekingese are black.

Pekes weigh from 7 to 14 pounds and stand about 6-9 inches tall. Their life span is 13-15 years. The breed is dignified, supremely confident, and one of the most independent and stubborn of the toy breeds. However, they are slow to housebreak. They can be very possessive of their food and toys. They are calm and quiet indoors and do not require much exercise. They are polite with strangers. They do shed heavily and are given to flatulence.

Because they are indoor dogs, they can be inclined to having heatstroke when exposed to high temperatures. Due to having a short snout, overheating or exertion can cause serious breathing problems for the Pekingese. They are prone to snorting and snoring, particularly at night.

Pekingese are very loving and affectionate with their family but wary of strangers. That characteristic makes them excellent watchdogs; they like to bark when strangers approach. The breed doesn't always get along with other dogs. They prefer the company of other Pekingese, and it can take them a long time to get used to other animals in the household.

Pekingese are feisty little dogs, both independent and courageous. They will often get into power struggles with their owner. They do better with older rather than younger children. Once they are trained, Pekes can be a wonderful companion.