What Are the Main Types of Dogs?

Dogs are classified into 7 different categories: Herding, Sporting, Non-Sporting, Working, Hounds, Terriers, and Toy breeds. Each category is based on the dog uses or purpose, and characteristics of the breeds. 




  • Herding Dogs

A herding dog is one which has been either trained to herd livestock, or is a breed that was developed to herd livestock.  Breeds such as Border Collie, Bearded Collie, Canaan Dog, German Shepherd, and Old English Sheepdog are considered herding breeds.

  • Sporting Dogs

Sporting dogs are breeds that have been developed to assist with the finding and retrieving of quarry during hunting.  Breeds such as Cocker Spaniel, English Setter, English Springer Spaniel, Golden Retriever, Labrador Retriever, and Vizsla are considered sporting breeds.

  • Non-Sporting Dogs

Non-Sporting is the term given to breeds that do not fit into the other categories.  This category is diverse in nature with varying coats, sizes and personalities.  Breeds such as American Eskimo Dog, Bichon Frise, Chow Chow, Dalmatian, Poodle (Standard), and Xoloitzcuintli are considered to be non-sporting breeds.

  • Working Dogs

A working dog is used to perform a range of practical tasks.  These types of dogs can include guide dogs, herding dogs, guard dogs, sled dogs and search and rescue dogs.  Breeds such as Akita, Alaskan Malamute, Boxer, Cane Corso, Doberman Pinscher, Saint Bernard, and Samoyed are considered to be working breeds.

  • Hounds

Hounds are breeds that fulfill different roles during hunting; by following a trail using their acute sense of smell, or extensive amounts of stamina to chase quarry.  Breeds such as Afghan Hound, Basset Hound, Beagle, Black and Tan Coonhound, Dachshund, and Whippet are considered to be hound breeds.

  • Terriers

Terriers were originally developed to hunt vermin.  Nowadays they are known for their fearlessness and energetic antics.  Breeds such as Airedale Terrier, Bull Terrier, Dandie Dinmont Terrier, Glen of Imaal Terrier, Rat Terrier, and Manchester Terrier.

  • Toy Dogs

Toy refers to the smallest sized dogs and covers a range of breeds such as Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, Chihuahua, Maltese, Pug, Silky Terrier, and Yorkshire Terrier.

What Are the Seven Types of Dogs thedogdaily.com

Here Are Some Articles on Dog Breeds You Might Find of Interest.

Dog Breed List

A  B  C  D  E  F  G  H  I  J  K  L  M  N  O  P  Q  R  S  T  U  V  W  X  Y  Z

A

Afghan Hound thedogdaily.com

Afghan Hound

Average Adult Weight
45 to 64 pounds

Personality
Aristocratic, noble, dignified, independent and somewhat aloof.

Optimal Home
Best with older, considerate children. Not recommended for novice owners or for homes with cats.

Airedale Terrier thedogdaily.com

Airedale Terrier

Average Adult Weight
50-70 Pounds

Personality
Friendly, clever, courageous.

Optimal Home
A high energy breed requiring a home with a securely fenced large yard.  More suitable for families with older children.

Akita thedogdaily.com

Akita

Average Adult Weight
75 to 100 pounds

Personality
Affectionate, loyal, willful and intelligent.

Optimal Home
Can be reserved with strangers and aggressive with other dogs, so they are not for novice owners. Apartment living is OK with regular outdoor exercise.

Alaskan Malamute thedogdaily.com

Alaskan Malamute

Average Adult Weight
75 to 85 pounds

Personality
Friendly, dignified and mellow (as an adult), but difficult to train.

Optimal Home
Best with adults, seniors and older children. Not suitable for multi-pet homes.

American Bulldog thedogdaily.com

American Bulldog

Average Adult Weight
60 to 100 pounds

Personality
Athletic, great strength, agility, and endurance.  Gentle and affectionate.

Optimal Home
Strong willed so needs a home with a strong pack leader.  Good with children.  Requires plenty of exercise.

American Eskimo thedogdaily.com

American Eskimo

Average Adult Weight
20 to 40 pounds

Personality
Loyal, intelligent, playful, loving, and easily trained.

Optimal Home
Excellent with children; OK in an apartment. Good choice for novice dog owners.

American Hairless Terrier thedogdaily.com

American Hairless Terrier

Average Adult Weight
12 to 16 pounds

Personality
Playful, intelligent, inquisitive, and loving.

Optimal Home
Moderate exercise needs so OK in an apartment along with regular walks.

American Pit Bull thedogdaily.com

American Pit Bull Terrier

Average Adult Weight
30 to 60 pounds

Personality
Alert, outgoing, intelligent, and eager to please. Must socialize puppies to prevent aggression problems.

Optimal Home
Apartment living is OK with daily exercise. Make loving house pets.

American Staffordshire Terrier thedogdaily.com

American Staffordshire Terrier

Average Adult Weight
45 to 65 pounds

Personality
Tenacious, loyal, and friendly. Must socialize puppies to prevent aggression problems.

Optimal Home
Requires a lot of exercise. Make loving house pets if made part of the family.

American Water Spaniel thedogdaily.com

American Water Spaniel

Average Adult Weight
25 to 45 pounds

Personality
Protective, energetic, intelligent, and easily trainable.

Optimal Home
A home with a large fenced yard.  Moderate daily exercise.  Great hunting companion.

Australian Cattle Dog thedogdaily.com

Australian Cattle Dog

Average Adult Weight
35 to 50 pounds

Personality
Cautious, loyal, and energetic.  Has a strong instinct for herding and guarding.  Good with children and other pets.

Optimal Home
Needs a home with a large fenced yard, and plenty of stimulation and exercise.

Australian Shepherd thedogdaily.com

Australian Shepherd

Average Adult Weight
45 to 60 pounds

Personality
Intelligent, active, and good-natured.  Has a strong instinct for herding and guarding.  Good with children and other pets.

Optimal Home
Needs a home with a large fenced yard, and plenty of stimulation and exercise.

B

Basenji thedogdaily.com

Basenji

Average Adult Weight
22 to 24 pounds

Personality
Affectionate, intelligent, and playful.  Is ‘catlike’ and does not have a ‘bark’.  Have a strong hunting instinct.

Optimal Home
A home with a well fenced yard.  Require plenty of exercise.

Basset Hound thedogdaily.com

Basset Hound

Average Adult Weight
55 to 65 pounds

Personality
Gentle, devoted, sweet; easygoing, with training.

Optimal Home
Easy access to outdoor adventures and exercise. Bond well with young kids and other pets.

Beagle thedogdaily.com

Beagle

Average Adult Weight
11 to 13 pounds

Personality
Friendly, curious, and good-natured. Stubborn and not easy to train.

Optimal Home
Home with a good sized securely fenced yard.  Need plenty of exercise.

Bearded Collie thedogdaily.com

Bearded Collie

Average Adult Weight
35 to 60 pounds

Personality
Playful, exuberant and easy to train. Females are calmer and more submissive than males.

Optimal Home
Best for a home with an average-sized yard. Good with children and generally not aggressive with other dogs.

Belgian Tervuren thedogdaily.com

Belgian Tervuren

Average Adult Weight
45 to 75 pounds

Personality
Protective, energetic, intelligent, and loyal.  Good with other pets, but may chase unknown animals.

Optimal Home
Best for a home with an average-sized yard. Early socialization important.  Very active and needs a lot of daily exercise.

Bernese Mountain Dog thedogdaily.com

Bernese Mountain Dog

Average Adult Weight
70 to 115 pounds

Personality
faithful, intelligent, affectionate, and loyal.  Good with children.  Enjoy companionship.

Optimal Home
Thrives in a cooler climate.  Need daily moderate exercise.

Bichon Frise thedogdaily.com

Bichon Frise

Average Adult Weight
13 to 16 pounds

Personality
Feisty, affectionate, playful and gentle.  Good with children and other pets.

Optimal Home
Can live in an apartment with daily walks for exercise.

Coonhound thedogdaily.com

Black and Tan Coonhound

Average Adult Weight
65 to 90 pounds

Personality
Intelligent, eager, attentive and protective. Originally bred to hunt raccoons.

Optimal Home
Best with a large yard and a family of seniors, adults and older children. Not novice owners.

Bloodhound thedogdaily.com

Bloodhound

Average Adult Weight
80 to 110 pounds

Personality
Affectionate, gentle, even-tempered, and stubborn.  Good with children and other dogs.  Like to follow a scent trail.

Optimal Home
A home with a large fenced yard.  Requires a high level of daily activity.  Long walks on leash.

Border Collie thedogdaily.com

Border Collie

Average Adult Weight
40 to 50 pounds

Personality
Smart, energetic, and alert.  Strong herding instinct, so may herd young children.

Optimal Home
A home with a large fenced yard.  Requires a high level of daily activity; walks, dog parks, and fetch.  Weekly agility classes also a must.

Border Terrier thedogdaily.com

Border Terrier

Average Adult Weight
12 to 14 pounds

Personality
Fearless, intelligent, and obedient.  Good with older children.

Optimal Home
A home with a fenced yard, but can live in an apartment provided they have plenty of exercise opportunities. 

Boston Terrier thedogdaily.com

Boston Terrier

Average Adult Weight
12 to 14 pounds

Personality
Friendly, lively, and intelligent.  Good family breed.  Good with other pets.  Outgoing and eager to please.

Optimal Home
OK in an apartment.

Boxer thedogdaily.com

Boxer

Average Adult Weight
60 to 70 pounds

Personality
Energetic, bright and loyal.  Good with children and other pets.

Optimal Home
Require companionship and lots of exercise.  Can live in an apartment provided they have plenty of exercise opportunities. 

Boykin Spaniel thedogdaily.com

Boykin Spaniel

Average Adult Weight
25 to 40 pounds

Personality
Energetic, eager, intelligent, trainable, and eager to please.  Good with children and other dogs. 

Optimal Home
A home with a fenced yard.  Likes companionship.  Active and requires moderate daily exercise.

Brittany thedogdaily.com

Brittany

Average Adult Weight
30 to 40 pounds

Personality
Agile, intelligent, quick, and attentive.  Good with children and other pets.  High energy hunting breed.

Optimal Home
A home with a fenced yard.  Requires companionship and lots of exercise.  

Brussels Griffon thedogdaily.com

Brussels Griffon

Average Adult Weight
8 to 10 pounds

Personality
Self-Important, inquisitive, and companionable.  Easily trained.

Optimal Home
Not suitable for families with children.  Require daily moderate exercise.

Bull Terrier thedogdaily.com

Bull Terrier

Average Adult Weight
35 to 80 pounds

Personality
Strong-willed, courageous, playful and sensitive to humans’ needs.

Optimal Home
Best in homes without non-canine pets and dogs of the same sex. Not recommended for novice owners. Fairly active indoors.

Bulldog thedogdaily.com

Bulldog

Average Adult Weight
40 to 50 pounds

Personality
With proper socialization, is sweet, devoted and eager-to-please; may not realize their own strength.

Optimal Home
Can do OK in apartments, with regular activity.

Bullmastiff thedogdaily.com

Bullmastiff

Average Adult Weight
100 to 130 pounds

Personality
Devoted, loyal, protective, and calm.  Good with older children.  Begin training and socialization early.

Optimal Home
Needs a fenced yard.  Moderate exercise requirements.

C

Canaan thedogdaily.com

Canaan Dog

Average Adult Weight
35 to 55 pounds

Personality
Intelligent, independent, loyal, active.

Optimal Home
Not ideal for novice owners; get along best with older children. Should get daily exercise.

 

Cane Corso thedogdaily.com

Cane Corso

Average Adult Weight
Up to 110 pounds

Personality
Intense, protective and powerful, but can be gentle and submissive.

Optimal Home
Best with experienced owners and homes with fenced-in yards. OK in multi-pet homes if raised with them since puppyhood.

Cavalier King Charles Spaniel thedogdaily.com

Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

Average Adult Weight
14 to 17 pounds

Personality
Affectionate, gentle and playful.  Enjoy companionship.  Good with children and other pets.

Optimal Home
A home with a fenced yard as they need room to run.

Chesapeake Bay Retriever thedogdaily.com

Chesapeake Bay Retriever

Average Adult Weight
55 to 80 pounds

Personality
Dominant, intelligent, protective, affectionate, and quiet.  Good with children and other pets.  Early socialization important.

Optimal Home
Not suitable for a novice dog owner.  Energetic breed requiring plenty of exercise.

Chihuahua thedogdaily.com

Chihuahua

Average Adult Weight
3 to 6 pounds

Personality
Lively, devoted, alert, courageous and quick. Like attention and are loyal.

Optimal Home
Families with children provided they are treated respectfully.  Singles, seniors, apartments, houses with or without yards.

Chinese Shar-Pei thedogdaily.com

Chinese Shar Pei

Average Adult Weight
45 to 60 pounds

Personality
Affectionate, independent, and reserved.  Straightforward to train.  Needs early socialization.  Good with older children.

Optimal Home
Is OK in an apartment with daily walks.

Chow Chow thedogdaily.com

Chow Chow

Average Adult Weight
50 to 60 pounds

Personality
Independent, loyal and quiet.

Optimal Home
Needs a moderate amount of exercise.  Suitable for a more experienced dog owner.

Cocker Spaniel thedogdaily.com

Cocker Spaniel

Average Adult Weight
25 to 27 pounds

Personality
Gentle, trusting, loving and devoted. Gets along with everyone.

Optimal Home
Apartment living is OK with sufficient exercise. A home with a small yard is optimal. Good for novice owners.

D

Dachshund thedogdaily.com

Dachshund

Average Adult Weight
20 to 25 pounds (Standard)
under 11 pounds (Miniature)

Personality
Playful, devoted, and clever.  Is good with other pets.  Not good with young children.

Optimal Home
Needs a moderate amount of exercise.  Suitable for a small home or apartment.

Dalmatian thedogdaily.com

Dalmatian

Average Adult Weight
40 to 70 pounds

Personality
Energetic, playful, crave human companionship.

Optimal Home
Good-sized home with a backyard. Love to play with children, too rambunctious for toddlers.

Dandie Dinmont Terrier thedogdaily.com

Dandie Dinmont Terrier

Average Adult Weight
18 to 24 pounds

Personality
Affectionate, fun loving, willful, independent, dignified.

Optimal Home
Best for older, considerate children; adults; and dog-savvy seniors. Needs attention.

Dobermann Pinscher thedogdaily.com

Doberman Pinscher

Average Adult Weight
70 to 90 pounds

Personality
Intelligent, alert, and loyal.  Is good with children providing is treated respectfully.

Optimal Home
A home with a large fenced yard.  Requires companionship, exercise and stimulation.

E

English Cocker Spaniel thedogdaily.com

English Cocker Spaniel

Average Adult Weight
28 to 32 pounds

Personality
Affectionate, loyal, and playful.  With appropriate socialization is a gentle dog.  Good with children and other pets.

Optimal Home
A home with a fenced yard.  Needs plenty of exercise.

English Setter thedogdaily.com

English Setter

Average Adult Weight
50 to 70 pounds

Personality
Gentle, sensitive, friendly and social. Loves affection.

Optimal Home
Requires vigorous exercise and space for activity. OK with pets and children, with socialization.

English Springer Spaniel thedogdaily.com

English Springer Spaniel

Average Adult Weight
35 to 55 pounds

Personality
Intelligent, active, and affectionate.  Crave companionship.  Good with children and other dogs.

Optimal Home
A home with a large fenced yard, but can live in an apartment provided sufficient daily exercise opportunities are provided.

F

Flat-Coated Retriever thedogdaily.com

Flat-Coated Retriever

Average Adult Weight
60 to 70 pounds

Personality
Smart, active, friendly, playful and even-tempered. Can become easily bored.

Optimal Home
Needs a medium-sized yard for regular exercise. Friendly with most dogs. Great for busy families.

 
French Bulldog thedogdaily.com

French Bulldog

Average Adult Weight
19 to 28 pounds

Personality
Playful, sweet, bright, alert and easygoing. Bond strongly to individuals.

Optimal Home
Best with older, considerate children. Good with other pets if raised together. Good homes without yards.

G

German Shepherd thedogdaily.com

German Shepherd

Average Adult Weight
55 to 90 pounds

Personality
Cheerful, confident, obedient, intelligent.

Optimal Home
Apartment life is OK with vigorous daily activities. Good with children, and make great family pets.

German Shorthaired Pointer thedogdaily.com

German Shorthaired Pointer

Average Adult Weight
45 to 70 pounds

Personality
Boisterous, affectionate, intelligent and trainable.  Very energetic.

Optimal Home
A home with a good sized fenced yard.

German Wirehaired Pointer thedogdaily.com

German Wirehaired Pointer

Average Adult Weight
50 to 70 pounds

Personality
Affectionate, intelligent, loyal and active.  Good with older children.

Optimal Home
A home with a good sized fenced yard.  Regular daily exercise.

Giant Schnauzer thedogdaily.com

Giant Schnauzer

Average Adult Weight
75 to 95 pounds

Personality
Intelligent, calm, very protective. Can be dominant. Responds best to firm, positive, consistent training.

Optimal Home
Needs sufficient exercise. Best with adults, active seniors and older children.

Glen of Imaal Terrier thedogdaily.com

Glen of Imaal Terrier

Average Adult Weight
30 to 40 pounds

Personality
Loyal, playful and fairly quiet. Enjoys outdoor activities.

Optimal Home
Needs sufficient exercise; can be aggressive with other dogs, so make those introductions early.

Golden Retriever thedogdaily.com

Golden Retriever

Average Adult Weight
60 to 75 pounds

Personality
Gentle, stable, loyal, confident, loving and eager to please. Excel in obedience competitions.

Optimal Home
Thrive in most caring home environments. Should receive sufficient daily exercise. Get along with everyone.

Gordon Setter thedogdaily.com

Gordon Setter

Average Adult Weight
45 to 80 pounds

Personality
Confident, fearless, alert, and loyal.  Generally good with other dogs of different sex.  Good with children.

Optimal Home
A home with a fenced yard.  Good for active families or singles.

Great Dane thedogdaily.com

Great Dane

Average Adult Weight
110 to 175 pounds

Personality
Gentle, friendly, confident, and loving. People pleaser and good with children.

Optimal Home
A yard with a tall fence.  Needs lots of exercise.

Greyhound thedogdaily.com

Greyhound

Average Adult Weight
60 to 70 pounds

Personality
Athletic, gentle, affectionate, and intelligent.  

Optimal Home
A yard with a tall fence.  Needs lots of exercise and opportunities to run and chase.

H

Havanese thedogdaily.com

Havanese

Average Adult Weight
7 to 13 pounds

Personality
Gentle, playful, and intelligent. Like companionship.

Optimal Home
Can live in an apartment.  Moderate exercise needs.

I

Irish Setter thedogdaily.com

Irish Setter

Average Adult Weight
60 to 70 pounds

Personality
Affectionate, companionable, lively, and playful. Good with older children.  Eager to please.

Optimal Home
Highly energetic breed.  Needs plenty of space.

Irish Terrier thedogdaily.com

Irish Terrier

Average Adult Weight
25 to 27 pounds

Personality
Intelligent, lively, and protective.  Easily trainable.  Good with children.  

Optimal Home
Highly energetic requiring a fenced yard or several walks each day.

Irish Water Spaniel thedogdaily.com

Irish Water Spaniel

Average Adult Weight
45 to 65 pounds

Personality
Inquisitive, quick, active, and intelligent.  Eager to please.  Socialize early with small children.

Optimal Home
Highly energetic requiring a fenced yard or several walks each day.

Irish Wolfhound thedogdaily.com

Irish Wolfhound

Average Adult Weight
100 to 110 pounds

Personality
Loyal, patient, and sweet-tempered. Good with children.  Provide early introductions and socialization opportunities with other dogs.

Optimal Home
Due to it’s large size, not suitable for families with young children.

J

Jack Russell Terrier thedogdaily.com

Jack Russell Terrier

Average Adult Weight
13 to 17 pounds

Personality
Intelligent, energetic, and fearless.

Optimal Home
Not suitable for families with young children.

K

Komondor thedogdaily.com

Komondor

Average Adult Weight
80 to 100+ pounds

Personality
Serious, confident, alert, commanding, loyal, smart and highly protective.

Optimal Home
Not recommended for children or novice owners; best with experienced dog fanciers. Best in homes with large yards.

L

Labrador Retriever thedogdaily.com

Labrador Retriever

Average Adult Weight
55 to 80 pounds

Personality
Intelligent, playful, eager to please, and easy to train.

Optimal Home
Requires sufficient exercise. Good with children, seniors and other pets.

Lagotto Romagnolo thedogdaily.com

Lagotto Romagnolo

Average Adult Weight
24 to 35 pounds

Personality
Companionable, loyal, active, and easy to train.  Socialize early with children and other dogs.

Optimal Home
Requires regular mental and physical activity, preferably as part of the family.

Lhasa Apso thedogdaily.com

Lhasa Apso

Average Adult Weight
12 to 18 pounds

Personality
Energetic, alert, assertive, and devoted.  Need to be socialized early with children and other dogs.

Optimal Home
Can live in an apartment providing there are daily opportunities for exercise

M

Maltese thedogdaily.com

Maltese

Average Adult Weight
Up to 7 pounds

Personality
Gentle, spirited and playful. Needs ample attention.

Optimal Home
Good for novice owners. OK with other pets, and reserved around strangers. Adapts well to apartment living.

Manchester Terrier thedogdaily.com

Manchester Terrier

Average Adult Weight
12 to 22 pounds

Personality
Intelligent, loyal, affectionate, protective and strong-willed.

Optimal Home
Can remain active indoors, so apartment living is OK. Best in moderate/cool climates and with enough owner attention.

Miniature Bull Terrier thedogdaily.com

Miniature Bull Terrier

Average Adult Weight
18 to 28 pounds

Personality
Loving, energetic, stubborn, and even-tempered.  

Optimal Home
Best in homes without non-canine pets and dogs of the same sex. Not recommended for novice owners. Fairly active indoors.

Miniature Schnauzer thedogdaily.com

Miniature Schnauzer

Average Adult Weight
11 to 20 pounds

Personality
Friendly, fearless, intelligent, and obedient.  Good with children and other pets.

Optimal Home
Can remain active indoors, so apartment living is OK.  Need moderate daily exercise.

N

Newfoundland thedogdaily.com

Newfoundland

Average Adult Weight
100 to 150 pounds

Personality
Sweet-tempered, trainable, and gentle.  Great with children.

Optimal Home
A large dog – requiring some space.  Moderate amount of daily exercise.

Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever thedogdaily.com

Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever

Average Adult Weight
35 to 50 pounds

Personality
Outgoing, intelligent, patient, and loving.  Eager to please and likes to retrieve.  Can be a challenge to train due to their stubborn nature.

Optimal Home
A home with a fenced yard.  Highly active dog requiring plenty of daily exercise.

O

Old English Sheepdog thedogdaily.com

Old English Sheepdog

Average Adult Weight
70 to 90 pounds

Personality
Gentle, loving, faithful and intelligent.

Optimal Home
Needs sufficient daily exercise. Best in a home with an average-sized yard. OK with other pets.

P

Papillon thedogdaily.com

Papillon

Average Adult Weight
5 to 10 pounds

Personality
Intelligent, energetic, and friendly.

Optimal Home
Suitable for town or country.  OK in an apartment provided exercised daily.

Pekingese thedogdaily.com

Pekingese

Average Adult Weight
12 pounds

Personality
Intelligent, Stubbon, and Affectionate.  

Optimal Home
Would be OK in an apartment.  Modest exercise needs.

Pembroke Welsh Corgi thedogdaily.com

Pembroke Welsh Corgi

Average Adult Weight
25 pounds

Personality
Protective, Tenacious, and Playful.

Optimal Home
Needs sufficient daily exercise. Best in a home with an average-sized yard. OK with other pets.

Peruvian Inca Orchid thedogdaily.com

Peruvian Inca Orchid

Average Adult Weight
8.5 to 17.5 pounds (Small)
17.5 to 26.5 pounds (Medium)
26.5 to 55 pounds (Large)

Personality
Protective, intelligent, affectionate, and lively.  Not so good with small children or other small pets.

Optimal Home
An energetic dog requiring regular exercise.  Apartment living OK.

Pointer thedogdaily.com

Pointer

Average Adult Weight
45 to 75 pounds

Personality
Loyal and devoted. Can be timid, high-strung and willful. Sometimes difficult to train.

Optimal Home
Should have a large yard to provide vigorous daily exercise. Not recommended for apartments or families with children.

Pomeranian thedogdaily.com

Pomeranian

Average Adult Weight
3 to 7 pounds

Personality
Willful, loving and curious. Quick learners.

Optimal Home
Best with adults, seniors and older, considerate children. Active indoors. Good for novice owners.

For more information on Pomeranian tips and guide click here.

Poodle Standard thedogdaily.com

Poodle (Standard)

Average Adult Weight
45 to 65 pounds

Personality
Intelligent, dignified, proud, playful, calm and trainable.

Optimal Home
Good for novice owners; gets along well with everyone. Need regular exercise and companionship.

Poodle (Toy) thedogdaily.com

Poodle (Toy)

Average Adult Weight
6 pounds

Personality
Highly intelligent, very trainable; sensitive and demanding, but loyal

Optimal Home
Do well in apartments. Behave best when around older, considerate children

Portuguese Water Dog thedogdaily.com

Portuguese Water Dog

Average Adult Weight
35 to 60 pounds

Personality
Strong, even-tempered, intelligent, playful and easy to train.

Optimal Home
Best with kids older than 6. OK in apartment with sufficient exercise.

Pug thedogdaily.com

Pug

Average Adult Weight
14 to 18 pounds

Personality
Cheerful, perky, loyal, rambunctious, playful, charming and smart.

Optimal Home
Good with children; easy to train. Apartment living OK with sufficient exercise and attention.

R

Rat Terrier thedogdaily.com

Rat Terrier

Average Adult Weight
Miniature: 4 to 6 pounds; Standard: 12 to 35 pounds

Personality
Intelligent and social. Good at jogging, service-dog work, retrieving, guarding and more.

Optimal Home
Does best with regular exercise. Good with novice owners.

Rottweiler thedogdaily.com

Rottweiler

Average Adult Weight
80 to 130 pounds

Personality
Good-natured, courageous, calm, and devoted.  Good with children and other dogs.  Start training and socialization early.

Optimal Home
Needs moderate daily exercise.

S

Saint Bernard thedogdaily.com

Saint Bernard

Average Adult Weight
150 to 170 pounds

Personality
Calm, obedient and dignified; patient around children.

Optimal Home
This large dog requires daily exercise. With proper socialization, makes a great family pet.

Saluki thedogdaily.com

Saluki

Average Adult Weight
40 to 65 pounds

Personality
Reserved, aloof, and intelligent.  Good with children and other dogs.

Optimal Home
A home with a large fenced yard.  Needs a lot of daily exercise.

Samoyed thedogdaily.com

Samoyed

Average Adult Weight
40 to 75 pounds

Personality
Dignified, loyal and intelligent. Can be willful during training.

Optimal Home
Needs sufficient exercise and does best in cold climates. May be aggressive with cats and dogs, particularly those of the same sex.

Schipperke thedogdaily.com

Schiperke

Average Adult Weight
10 to 16 pounds

Personality
Faithful, curious, independent, and agile.  Like to explore so early recall training a must.  

Optimal Home
Not for novice dog owners, as can be hard to train. Apartment living OK.  Energetic so requires brisk walks.

Scottish Terrier thedogdaily.com

Scottish Terrier

Average Adult Weight
18 to 22 pounds

Personality
Self-Assured, independent, feisty, and alert.  Strong hunting instinct.  Good with older children if treated respectfully.  May be aggressive towards other animals.

Optimal Home
Moderate daily exercise needs.  

Shetland Sheepdog thedogdaily.com

Shetland Sheepdog

Average Adult Weight
15 to 25 pounds

Personality
Affectionate, intelligent, gentle, and easily trainable.  Good with children and other dogs.

Optimal Home
Active so plenty of exercise opportunities needed.  

Shih Tzu thedogdaily.com

Shih Tzu

Average Adult Weight
9 to 18 pounds

Personality
Assertive, engaging, proud, and loyal. Easy to train.

Optimal Home
They are active indoors, so apartment living is OK. Best with older children

Siberian Husky thedogdaily.com

Siberian Husky

Average Adult Weight
35 to 60 pounds

Personality
Intelligent, gentle, friendly, and outgoing.  Good with children and other dogs.

Optimal Home
Born to run and energetic; requiring a large fenced yard.

Silky Terrier thedogdaily.com

Silky Terrier

Average Adult Weight
10 pounds

Personality
Playful, loving and curious. Can learn new tricks and commands at ease.

Optimal Home
Apartment living is OK with sufficient exercise. Best for seniors, adults and older children.

Spanish Water Dog thedogdaily.com

Spanish Water Dog

Average Adult Weight
35 to 45 pounds

Personality
Athletic, loyal, intelligent, and easily trainable.  Strong herding instinct.

Optimal Home
A home with a large fenced yard for this energetic breed.  Socialization important.

Spinone Italiano thedogdaily.com

Spinone Italiano

Average Adult Weight
62 to 81 pounds

Personality
Calm, sweet and playful. Renowned for its hunting skills.

Optimal Home
Best with experienced owners. Requires sufficient exercise. Gets along well with children. Known for its relatively long lifespan.

Standard Schnauzer thedogdaily.com

Standard Schnauzer

Average Adult Weight
35 to 45 pounds

Personality
Spirited, Alert, and Obedient. Protective nature and good with children and other dogs.

Optimal Home
A home with a fenced yard.  Like companionship and to be included in family activities.  They have a lot of energy and need regular exercise.

T

Tibetan Terrier thedogdaily.com

Tibetan Terrier

Average Adult Weight 
20 to 24 pounds

Personality
Sweet, gentle, loving, lively and fun.

Optimal Home
Can do well in an apartment with sufficient exercise. Interacts best with older, considerate children.

Tosa thedogdaily.com

Tosa

Average Adult Weight
85 to 200 pounds

Personality
Protective, loyal, intelligent, calm and patient.

Optimal Home
Not recommended for novice owners; get along well with children and other pets (not of same sex, size and temperament) when socialized.

V

Vizsla thedogdaily.com

Vizsla

Average Adult Weight
50 pounds

Personality
Loyal, loving and protective of their pack mates. Requires firm training.

Optimal Home
Best with an average-sized yard. Not a breed for novice owners or apartment dwellers.

W

Weimaraner thedogdaily.com

Weimaraner

Average Adult Weight
55 to 85 pounds

Personality
Intelligent, loving, rambunctious, willful and protective.

Optimal Home
Not for novice owners, or homes with cats. Best with children older than 6 years of age.

West Highland White Terrier thedogdaily.com

West Highland White Terrier

Average Adult Weight
15 to 20 pounds

Personality
Independent, friendly, courageous, and active.  Can be hard to train.

Optimal Home
A fenced yard would be beneficial as ‘Westies’ love to chase.  Need moderate daily exercise.

Whippet thedogdaily.com

Whippet

Average Adult Weight
25 to 40 pounds

Personality
Friendly, intelligent, gentle, and affectionate.

Optimal Home
OK in an apartment provided exercised regularly.  Love to chase.

X

Xoloitzcuintli thedogdaily.com

Xoloitzcuintli

Average Adult Weight
Toy: 5 to 15 pounds
Mini: 15 to 30 pounds
Standard: 25 to 40 pounds

Personality
Calm and loyal. Good watchdog.

Optimal Home
Apartment living OK with sufficient exercise. Best in warm climates. OK with children, but can be dominant.

Y

Yorkshire Terrier thedogdaily.com

Yorkshire Terrier

Average Adult Weight
Up to 7 pounds

Personality
Energetic, willful, demanding and dependent. Affectionate and lovable.

Optimal Home
Best with adults, seniors and older children. Can be aggressive around cats and strange dogs. Active indoors.