Brittany Anas

Once companions for Russian aristocrats, Russian toy dogs today are playful, affectionate pets. They may be among the tiniest breeds, but they’re courageous and clever.

An ancient breed, Canaans are loving and loyal with their families but aloof with strangers. They are highly intelligent and a good fit for experienced dog owners.

Spanish mastiffs are a rare breed in the United States. These extra-large dogs are loyal, hardy, and self-confident but might be aloof around people outside of their beloved family.

A cross between a Chihuahua and pug, Chugs tend to be confident, playful, affectionate pets. They are small dogs with big, fun-loving personalities.

Skye terriers are big-bodied, stumpy-legged dogs famous for their enduring loyalty. This rare breed is good-tempered, well-suited for apartment living, and doesn't need as much exercise as other terriers.

A cross between golden retrievers and Labrador retrievers, goldadors are extra-friendly dogs who make great family pets. Learn more about what makes this hybrid such a lovable pup.

The official state dog of Texas, the blue lacy was bred to work on ranches. These hardworking, dignified dogs have boundless energy and do best with an active family and access to wide-open spaces.

The Norwegian lundehund is an energetic, clever, and loyal dog. These rare pups are great hiking companions (thanks to their extra toes) and love to be outside.

A Finnish spitz is a lively, intelligent, and loyal pup that needs lots of exercise and can be quite talkative. Learn more about living with Finnish spitz dogs.

The official state dog of Texas, the blue lacy was bred to work on ranches. These hardworking, dignified dogs have boundless energy and do best with an active family and access to wide-open spaces.

The Norwegian lundehund is an energetic, clever, and loyal dog. These rare pups are great hiking companions (thanks to their extra toes) and love to be outside.

A Finnish spitz is a lively, intelligent, and loyal pup that needs lots of exercise and can be quite talkative. Learn more about living with Finnish spitz dogs.

Shichons are gentle, happy-go-lucky, playful dogs that love spending lots of time with their humans. Learn more about what makes this fluffy hybrid such a wonderful pet.

Bolognese dogs are good-natured pups that don’t shed much and are great with kids and other pets. Learn more about what makes this rare, easygoing breed so lovable.

Malshis are friendly, loyal, cuddly, and don’t shed much. Learn more about what makes this teeny-tiny dog a fit for most families.

Black Russian terriers are working dogs that were bred for the Soviet military. Today, these family companions are highly intelligent, energetic dogs that will gladly join you on a hike or run.

Australian terriers are small pups that make excellent family dogs, but often prefer to be the only pet in a household. They are playful, high-energy, and affectionate.

Frenchtons are friendly, playful, outgoing, and love to be the center of attention. Learn more about what makes this squish-faced hybrid so lovable.

The Pomapoo, a mixed breed dog with poodle and Pomeranian parents, is extra-friendly, playful, and loves to be the center of attention. This pint-sized pup is great for apartment living and doesn’t require a rigorous exercise routine.

English shepherds, sometimes called “shadow shepherds'' because of their love for being around their humans, are medium-sized dogs with a strong and agile build. They have a history of working on farms but also make companion pets—if you can exercise them enough.

The Belgian sheepdog (also called the Belgian shepherd or Groenendael) has a long black coat, confident strut, and craves human attention. A herding dog with lots of brains and even more energy, he thrives in active households.

Friendly, doting, and intelligent, shih-poos inherit their parents’ best personality traits. These small dogs are versatile and can do well in any home where they’re the center of attention.

Greater Swiss mountain dogs are extra-large pups who often top 100 pounds. Their energetic, outgoing, and friendly nature makes Swissies excellent family dogs.

Boston terriers are friendly, intelligent dogs that enjoy brisk walks just as much as cuddling on the couch. Learn more about why these dogs are nicknamed “American Gentlemen.”

Tibetan terriers, bred as companion dogs in ancient monasteries, were once a symbol of good luck. Today, these loving and affectionate pups make for great family pets.