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Rolling Meadows Academy

of Dog Training

148 Bingham Industrial Dr.

Denton, NC 27239

USA

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our celebrity clients:
 

• We can personally deliver your pre-trained dog.

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Top 10 Reasons To Buy An Older Dog

An older pet is a more suitable pet for many situations, like busy households where time, attention and patience are already being consumed by children. There are several advantages to older dogs that many prospective pet owners do not realize.   Read Full Story

Top 155 Ranked AKC Breeds For 2006

For the 17th year in a row, the Labrador retriever is once again America's favorite purebred dog, according to registration numbers tallied by the American Kennel Club. The AKC released the figures and, as in past years, the Labrador far outstrips the other dogs in the top 10 Popularity.  Read Full Story

Health Benefits of Doggie Love

It's well known that pets, especially dogs, offer their owners many health benefits. Now scientists say dogs may help us even more than once thought.

Read Full Story

Canine Good Citizen (CGC) Certified Dogs

What Is A Canine Good Citizen?  A Canine Good Citizen is a friendly, well-behaved dog that can be taken virtually anywhere without risk or bother to others -- a dog who behaves well in a crowd, has good manners when guests visit your home, is reliable around children, or other dogs, and who doesn't lunge, bark at, or threaten other dogs or passersby.

Read Full Story

Hypoallergenic Dogs

What does "hypoallergenic" really mean?
To be hypoallergenic is to have a decreased tendency to cause allergies. Hypo means less, not none. Hypoallergenic dog breeds will still produce allergens, but because of their coat type, will typically produce less than others. People with severe allergies and asthma will still be affected by a hypoallergenic dog.  Read Full Story
 

A Guide to Successful Dog Adoption

Selecting a Breed

Large Vs. Small Breeds

Four out of the top ten AKC registered breeds are large breed dogs! These include the Labrador retriever, German shepherd, golden retriever and Boxer. The rest are smaller breed dogs which includes the Yorkie, Beagle, Dachshund, Poodle, Shih Tzu and Miniature Schnauzer.   Read Full Story

Top Dog Breeds for Seniors

For the elderly, life can sometimes be lonely. However, studies show that having a pet to share their love and time can help alleviate anxiety and boredom, and even improve health. When selecting a dog for an elderly person, you should consider some basic characteristics, such as size and temperament.   Read Full Story 

Top Dog Breeds for People with Allergies

For many people, dogs are loyal companions and considered a member of the family. For them, life without a dog is meaningless. But what do you do if your love for dogs and your allergies do not mix?   Read Full Story

Top Lap Dogs – Breeds That Enjoy a Quiet Life

For you, the sofa may be a wonderful sanctuary, a place to let your body melt. That's how your lap looks to a lapdog, a canine who, somehow and somewhere, figured out that cats have the right idea – the lap is the ONLY place to be.   Read Full Story

Top Breeds as Solo Pets

For some families, one dog is enough. Despite being pack animals, certain breeds of dogs tend to do better as the queen or king of the house. The following is a list of dog breeds that either prefer life as the only dog in the house or can do well as the only pet in the family.   Read Full Story

Top Dog Breeds for Apartment Life

Dogs make their homes in the city and country, in mansions, single family houses, condominiums, and even in apartments. For some breeds, life in an apartment is easy. If you live in an apartment and are looking to add a dog to your life, consider one of the following breeds.   Read Full Story

Top Dog Breeds for Life Outdoors

Due to space limitations or personal preference, some people choose to have their dogs live the majority of their lives outdoors. Some dogs do better than others as an outdoor dog.

Top Dog Breeds for Families

Whether you feel it is time to add a dog to the family or you have finally caved in to your children's pestering, you have finally decided to get a dog. But, with so many breeds available, which one would be good for your family and what characteristics should you look for?   Read Full Story

What does "hypoallergenic" really mean?
To be hypoallergenic is to have a decreased tendency to cause allergies. Hypo means less, not none. Hypoallergenic dog breeds will still produce allergens, but because of their coat type, will typically produce less than others. People with severe allergies and asthma will still be affected by a hypoallergenic dog.
 

Below is a list of hypoallergenic dogs. If you are looking for a hypoallergenic dog for your family any of these dogs may be a good match.

Remember, no dog is 100% hypoallergenic, but people with allergies frequently react to supposedly hypoallergenic breeds differently and can even react to individual dogs differently. If your allergic family member has a reaction to a particular breed of dog that family member may be fine with dogs of another breed that is considered to be hypoallergenic.

The following is a list of dogs considered to be hypoallergenic:

American Hairless Terrier
Airedale Terrier
Basenji
Bedlington Terrier
Bichon Frise
Border Terrier
Cairn Terrier
Chinese Crested (hairless)
Havanese
Kerry Blue Terrier
Maltese
Miniature Schnauzer
Portuguese Water Dog
Puli
Shih-Tzu
Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier
Spanish Water Dog
Standard Poodle
Standard Schnauzer
Tibetan Terrier
Toy Poodle
West Highland White Terrier
Wirehaired Fox Terrier
Yorkshire Terrier


Keep in mind that all dogs may carry small amounts of allergens or can pick up natural allergens in their fur when they go outside. To keep the allergy risk low even among hypoallergenic breeds, you should bath and groom as frequently as your vet or authorities on the breed suggest. (If a hypoallergenic dog's skin gets too dry from too much bathing, it make flake and cause allergic reations) If your family is super sensitive to pet hair you should be careful about having your pet groomed by a groomer with other breeds in the shop. To reduce the amount of loose hair on the dog, specify to your groomer that your dog should be rinsed after being clipped. (Most groomers bathe before clipping in order to not expose their clipper blades to marmful skin oils) Many groomers also spray a dog with a perfume after bathing which many asthmatics and allergy sufferers are allergic to. If this could be a concern for you ask your groomer in advance not to use any perfumes or colognes on your dog.

 

Top 10 Reasons To Buy An Older Dog
An older pet is a more suitable pet for many situations, like busy households where time, attention and patience are already being consumed by children. There are several advantages to older dogs that many prospective pet owners do not realize:
 

Puppies are undeniably cute. However, as anyone who has ever raised a puppy knows, these little bundles of joy can be as labor intensive as a small child. If you've been searching for a canine companion, but are not sure you have the time, energy and patience it takes to properly train a puppy, consider the advantages of buying a fully trained older companion dog.

Convenience. Training a puppy means starting at ground zero; our adult dogs are completely housebroken, obedience and etiquette trained. adult dogs will not have to be fed or taken outside as often as a younger one, and can be left alone for longer periods of time. The older the dog, the more independent they can be.
 
Adult dogs often make great companions for older people, who don't have the stamina to keep up with a young, energetic dog.
 
With an older dog you know what you're getting in terms of size, physical appearance, health and temperament. There is no way to know whether the tiny puppy you adopt today will be 90 pounds of hard-to-manage dog a year from now, or if he will shed constantly or fall victim to a genetic disease.

An older dog has already gone through the destructive phases of adolescence and puppy-hood, and will most likely be more focused and self-disciplined.
 
Can you teach an old dog new tricks? Sure. In fact, older dogs have a longer attention span, and often give more recognition to their trainers than puppies and young dogs do.

Before heading to the nearest puppy kennels in search of your next companion, take a moment to ponder the possibilities of a fully trained adult dog.

1. Our pre-trained adult pet dogs have already gone through the teething stage. Chances are slim that you'll lose your favorite shoes or remote control to them.

2. Our pre-trained adult pet dogs sleep quietly through the night. You won't be woken up at 4 a.m. by a crying puppy.

3. Our pre-trained adult pet dogs allow for more time to live your life and relax. Adult dogs require less time and attention once they've adjusted to your family and household routine, although you'll still need to spend time helping your new dog with the transition to his new home.  Our 30 day bonding period.

4. Our pre-trained adult pet dogs are housebroken. With most family members gone 8 hours a day, an older dog can “hold it” much more reliably than a puppy and for longer periods of time.

5. Our pre-trained adult pet dogs have already become who they are going to be. They have already developed personalities. Puppies are playful and still growing and changing. How a puppy behaves in a kennel, shelter or pet shop doesn't dictate whether it will be a well-behaved companion as it ages. Whereas with our pre-trained adult pet dogs, if you pick large or small, active or couch potato, goofy or brilliant, sweet or sassy—what you see is what you get.

6. Most older dogs have been there, done that and moved on. They aren't still nippy or biting because they are teething.

7. Our pre-trained adult pet dogs become an instant companion. They are ready to be your buddy right away. There's no waiting for them to grow up. You can select a dog that already likes to do what you like to do.

8. Our pre-trained adult pet dogs are easier to train than young puppies because they have longer attention spans.

9. Our pre-trained adult pet dogs are generally more predictable. When you adopt our pre-trained adult pet dogs, you already know it's full size, health and real personality.

10. Our pre-trained adult pet dogs have learned what "Na" means. "Na" is his correction word telling him he has done wrong.  See obedience commands.

We have helped hundreds of families find the perfect family dog. We have sold dogs to law enforcement agencies, security companies, but most importantly families just like yours. If you are thinking about adding a dog to your household, please remember to consider our pre-trained adult pet dogs.

Health Benefits of Doggie Love

Pets trigger our 'feel good' hormones, research suggests.

It's well known that pets, especially dogs, offer their owners many health benefits. Now scientists say dogs may help us even more than once thought.

If you have ever owned a dog you will remember those big brown eyes gazing at you with complete adoration, his cool, wet nose nudging you in the early morning, that tireless wagging tail that symbolizes pure joy in your presence.

We know that dogs are dedicated companions that offer unquestioning attachment and acceptance. In the past several years, mounting scientific evidence suggests that they benefit us even beyond eager devotion. Numerous studies have shown that dogs -- one of the earliest domesticated animals -- can help lower blood pressure, ease the loneliness of the elderly in nursing homes, and help children overcome allergies.

Now there's new research from the University of Missouri-Columbia suggesting the hormonal changes that occur when humans and dogs interact could help people cope with depression and certain stress-related disorders. Preliminary results from a study show that a few minutes of stroking our pet dog prompts a release of a number of "feel good" hormones in humans, including serotonin, prolactin and oxytocin.

In addition, petting our pooches results in decreased levels of the primary stress hormone cortisol, the adrenal chemical responsible for regulating appetite and cravings for carbohydrates.

"The notion that serotonin increased with their own dog is a very powerful thing. Could a dog help mediate serotonin levels in order to help depressed patients?" asks Dr. Rebecca Johnson, a nursing professor and associate director at the Center for Animal Wellness, Missouri University College of Veterinary Medicine, who is heading the study with collaborator Richard Meadows.

Why does Spot make us feel better?

Dog owners may not be surprised to hear about the emotional benefits of stroking a beloved pet, but for researchers like Johnson, it's important to understand why Spot makes us feel better.

Therapy dogs have been used to visit nursing homes, calm traumatized children and help ease pain in people undergoing physical rehabilitation, but the field of animal-assisted therapy is still in its infancy, Johnson says. Researchers are trying to determine which types of people would best benefit from being with pet animals and how often they need to interact with them to get results.

"By showing how interacting with pets actually works in the body to help people, we can help animal-assisted therapy become a mainstream medically-accepted intervention that would be prescribed to patients and, in the long run, be reimbursed by insurance companies," says Johnson. The University of Missouri-Columbia study was funded by The Skeeter Foundation, a group headed by Dr. Jack Stephens, founder of Veterinary Pet Insurance, a nationwide insurer of pet medical coverage.

Johnson's study expanded on research conducted in 1999 by South African scientists who found that 15 minutes of quietly stroking a dog caused hormonal changes that were beneficial to both the dog and the human.

But the South African study was small, involving only 18 people and a few friendly dogs, and didn't test for serotonin, the brain chemical strongly linked with depression. Increased levels of the neurotransmitter serotonin make us more mentally alert, improve sleep and can make us less sensitive to pain.

Comparable to eating chocolate

In the larger Missouri study, 50 dog owners and 50 non-dog owners over the age of 18 sat in a quiet room for 15 to 39 minutes with their own dog, a friendly but strange dog, and a robotic dog. The robotic dog was included because electronic pooches, such as Sony's AIBO, are being studied as a possible resource for the elderly who can't look after a live animal.

Each session involved calm stroking or petting. Researchers checked blood samples of both the humans and dogs at the beginning of each session and monitored their blood pressure every five minutes. The dogs' blood pressure dropped as soon as they were petted. The humans' blood pressure dropped by approximately 10 percent about 15 to 30 minutes after they began petting the animal, at which point blood was again drawn.

Johnson's study found that serotonin levels increased when interacting with the human's own dog, but not with the unfamiliar animal. And serotonin actually decreased when interacting with the robotic dog.

Dr. Alan Beck, director of the Center for the Human-Animal Bond at Purdue University, says the serotonin changes reveal the "mechanism" of how pets influence our health.

"It shows that there is a physiological mechanism [to relaxing with a pet], that it really is comparable to other things we know cause relaxation, like eating chocolate," says Beck.

Not just learned behavior

In other words, the warm feeling we get from our dogs and other pets isn't just a learned behavior, Beck says, but something that's hard-wired into humans so that the presence of animals can help us stay well and even recover from illnesses.

It's a theory that's been gaining notable scientific support for some time:

   a.. In 1995, Erika Friedman at the University of Maryland Hospital conducted a study involving 392 people, which found that heart attack patients with dogs were eight times more likely to be alive a year later than people without dogs.

   b.. In 1999, the State University of New York at Buffalo conducted a study involving 24 stock brokers taking medication for high blood pressure. The researchers found that adding a dog or cat to the stock brokers' lives helped stabilize and reduce their stress levels.

   c.. In 1999, Swedish researchers reported that children exposed to pets during the first year of life had fewer allergies and less asthma.

   d.. Recently, separate studies reported that walking a dog contributed to a person's weight loss and that dog walking can be a catalyst for social interaction with other people, a benefit that can help improve our sense of well-being -- or even help us meet a future spouse.

Studies involving other pets

While Johnson doesn't advise patients to throw away their antidepressants and instead get a dog, she says animal therapy could be used as an adjunct to depression treatment.

"It gives us answers about who would be the most likely to benefit from owning a dog or how often someone would need to visit with a dog to get the beneficial effect," she says.

And it's not just dogs that are being studied for their therapeutic power. Currently Beck and other researchers at the Center for the Human-Animal Bond, in conjunction with the National Science Foundation and the University of Washington, are exploring how the "inborn attraction to nature" can help patients with dementia. For instance, people with Alzheimer's disease often suffer from weight-loss problems because they're unable to focus long enough to eat. But when they sit in front of aquariums with brightly colored fish, the elderly patients are able to pay attention long enough to get their meals down.

As scientific research continues to validate the importance of animals to human health, Beck expects to see more community funding for public dog runs, for example, as well as more widespread acceptance of animal care as a legitimate healthcare expense. He also hopes more insurance policies will begin offering coverage for services such as veterinary care for pets of the elderly, and that eventually pet owners will receive insurance discounts similar to the deals given to non-smokers.

Just as we recognize that exercise is important to our health, it's becoming clearer that animals can also improve the quality of our lives, Beck says.

"We still haven't realized that [owning a pet] isn't just some kind of hobby."

Article Written By,

Jane Weaver

Guide to Successful Dog Adoption

Selecting a Breed

Large Vs. Small Breeds
Four out of the top ten AKC registered breeds are large breed dogs! These include the Labrador retriever, German shepherd, golden retriever and Boxer. The rest are smaller breed dogs which includes the Yorkie, Beagle, Dachshund, Poodle, Shih Tzu and Miniature Schnauzer.
 

Whether you feel it is time to add a dog to the family or you have finally caved in to your children's pestering, you have finally decided to get a dog. But, with so many breeds available, which one would be good for your family and what characteristics should you look for?

Children are often unaware of their own strength and can unintentionally play a little rough. It is the responsibility of the parents to supervise any interaction between pets and children and to teach the children to play gently. There are, however, times when a clumsy child may tumble near the family dog and latch on in an attempt to stop a fall. Or, the child may pet the dog a little too rough as she is learning how to be gentle. For these reasons, any family dog should be tolerant enough to allow some hard patting or tail and ear tugging.

He might also have to be patient enough to sit through a “dress-up” session or tea party and even periodically allow his nails to be painted. Dogs living with children need to have enough energy to withstand hours of play and yet not be so rambunctious that injury could occur.

Many breeds work well with children, but always remember: There are good dogs and bad dogs in every breed. It's important to know that individual dogs within breeds can demonstrate their own, unique personality traits. No matter what breed you choose, you shouldn't leave dogs and young children together unsupervised – for the safety of both.

Top Dog Breeds for Seniors

Seniors:

For the elderly, life can sometimes be lonely. However, studies show that having a pet to share their love and time can help alleviate anxiety and boredom, and even improve health. When selecting a dog for an elderly person, you should consider some basic characteristics, such as size and temperament.

Typically, smaller dogs do better. If the dog becomes ill, a small dog is easier to carry and transport to the veterinarian. He or she should also be a dog that enjoys a life of being petted and cared for. In other words, your basic "lap dog." Dogs that require a lot of exercise or are rambunctious are not good choices.

Always remember: There are good dogs and bad dogs in every breed. It's important to remember that individual dogs within breeds can demonstrate their own, unique personality traits. Some breeds that generally work well with the elderly include:

Pug.  For such a small dog, there's a lot of love stuffed into the pug's body. A clown by nature, the pug demands attention and adoration, but returns both in greater measure. They love to play, but the pug also enjoys a good lap session as much as the next dog.

Schnauzer. The standard and miniature schnauzer are wonderful pets for seniors. Eager to please and to keep his family safe, this breed usually requires regular grooming and daily exercise. They thrive on human companionship.

Scottish terrier. This working dog from the Scottish Highlands weighs around 15 to 20 pounds. Most often black, the Scottie is highly intelligent and needs daily exercise. Tough and compact, the Scottie is a loyal and protective family member.

Shih tzu. Proud and intelligent, the shih tzu is from Tibet and China, where the name means “lion dog” because of the breed's appearance. The breed is alert, curious and gentle and thrives on human companionship.

Yorkshire terrier. The Yorkie is a tiny dog with lots of spunk. This breed is happy to spend his days lounging on the sofa, but this calm dog requires regular grooming.

Cocker spaniel. The popular cocker with his curly hair and sad eyes is a good choice for seniors. Needing basic exercise, the cocker usually spends his days lounging and waiting for his owner's return.

Welsh corgi. At about 25 pounds, the Pembroke Welsh corgi is a popular pet. This stocky short tailed breed needs daily exercise but does not require a large living space.

American Eskimo. Descended from the German “Spitz” line of dogs, the American Eskimo was bred from ancient times to watch over people and property. The Eskimo is a small- to medium-sized dog that bonds closely with his family and tends to distrust strangers.

Boston terrier. Small, muscular and compact, the Boston terrier is one of the few truly American breeds. They are gentle, friendly dogs that are protective of family and home. This natural guardian instinct helps keep his senior owner feeling safe.

Chihuahua. The Chihuahua is a small dog with a big bark. He will bark vigorously, as if they are trying to make up for being just 6 to 9 inches tall and weighing under 5 pounds. They are excellent pets for senior and you will know when someone's approaching the house.

Pekingese. The Pekingese is a bold, regal toy dog that has an enthusiastic bark rivaling the Chihuahua's. A natural guardian and lap dog, the Peke needs regular grooming.

Toy poodle. The poodle loves to be in the company of people. Actually, he prefers to be with people instead of other dogs. The breed also hates to be ignored and does not like being thought of or treated as "just a dog." This breed is wonderful for seniors who want someone to pamper.

Maltese. As the name suggests, the small Maltese originated on the island of Malta, in the Mediterranean. This diminutive breed looks fragile but is quite resilient. The long flowing white coat needs daily care. These dogs are smart, extremely affectionate and love people.

Pomeranian. If you are looking for a spunky, perky little dog, look no further. Believed to originate in Pomerania, Germany, the Pomeranian is an alert, docile but lively companion. This compact little breed has quite a fuzzy hair coat and resembles a cuddly teddy bear.

English toy spaniel. The toy spaniel has a look similar to the Cavalier King Charles spaniel but with a more pushed-in nose. This breed is pleasant and jovial but is wary of strangers, which may help some seniors feel at ease.

 

Top Dog Breeds for People with Allergies

People With Allergies:
For many people, dogs are loyal companions and considered a member of the family. For them, life without a dog is meaningless. But what do you do if your love for dogs and your allergies do not mix?

Allergies are associated with the dander produced by the dog and not the dog himself nor the dog hair. Dander is the dry skin that flakes off, floats through the air and induces the classics signs of allergy. There is no breed that is 100% allergy free as they all produce dander, even the hairless breeds such as the Chinese Crested or the rare Xoloitzcuintli.

Thankfully, for all those dog-loving but allergic people, there are a few dog breeds that don't develop as much dander as others and subsequently are less likely to induce sneezing, wheezing and watery eyes. The American Kennel Club (AKC ®), largest registry of purebred dogs in the world, developed a list of breeds they believe are associated with less dander. They include:
 

Bedlington Terrier. With the look of a lamb, this terrier is a wonderful companion. Most often seen with a blue haircoat, this breed sheds little, resulting in less dander and easier breathing for the allergy sufferer.

Bichon Frise. The bichon is not only a great lapdog, but the curly-coated white breed produces little dander, making the dog a wonderful companion for people with allergies. To keep him looking great, the bichon needs periodic trips to the groomer.

Chinese Crested. This breed is slowly gaining popularity. Not completely bald, the Chinese crested has some puffs of hair on the head and may have a very spotted skin. Despite his weird appearance, the Chinese crested is a great family pet.

Irish Water Spaniel. Even though he may look like the clown of the spaniel family, the Irish water spaniel is the tallest spaniel and a great water dog. The coat of the Irish water spaniel is his most distinguishing characteristic.

Kerry Blue Terrier. The hair coat of the Kerry blue is silky soft and dense. The coat can be curly or wavy but should not be wiry or harsh. The Kerry blue does require frequent grooming

Maltese. As the name suggests, the small Maltese originated on the island of Malta, in the Mediterranean. This diminutive breed looks fragile but is quite resilient. The long flowing white coat needs daily care but sheds little and produces small amounts of dander.

Poodle. The standard, miniature and toy poodle make excellent pets. These dogs crave human companionship and, for the allergy sufferer, produce little dander. The breed does require attentive grooming to keep his coat in tip-top shape.

Portuguese Water Dog. Bred to help the fishermen of Portugal, this breed is as happy on land as he is in the water. Another dog that produces little dander and doesn't shed much, the Portuguese water dog is a faithful and active companion.

Schnauzer (Miniature, Standard or Giant). The most common coat color is salt and pepper but black is also available. In order to keep their coat clean and tangle free, frequent grooming and clipping is necessary.

Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier. A medium sized terrier, the wheaten seems to love life and human companionship. The color is any shade of wheaten. The soft coated wheaten has a soft wavy hair coat in any shade of wheaten.

Xoloitzcuintli or Mexican Hairless. Comes in 3 sizes and in two varieties: hairless and coated. The colors are: black, bronze and grey.
 

Top Lap Dogs – Breeds That Enjoy a Quiet Life

Lap Dogs:

For you, the sofa may be a wonderful sanctuary, a place to let your body melt. That's how your lap looks to a lapdog, a canine who, somehow and somewhere, figured out that cats have the right idea – the lap is the ONLY place to be.

This isn't to endorse sitting around all the time. You and your dog do need to exercise. But afterwards, you can let him or her curl up on your lap, petting and pampering him or her, while you lazily flip through the channels. If this is the sort of lifestyle you enjoy, consider some of the following breeds that are natural lapdogs. We've included a handy guide to how much each dog generally weighs (an important but often overlooked factor, since a good lapdog can spend hours sitting on you).

Bichon frise. The bichon frise, winner of the 2001 Westminster Dog Show, is not only a great lapdog, but the curly-coated white breed is recommended for people with allergies.

The bichon frise loves attention and is very affectionate. Lap weight: 10 to 18 pounds.

Cavalier King Charles spaniel. King Charles II was almost never without two or three spaniels. He once ordered that the dogs were to be admitted to all public places – even courtrooms. (This decree is still legal in Great Britain, by the way.) With large eyes and a slightly rounded head, the Cavalier is adorable. Their hair coat is moderate in length and is most often white & chestnut. The breed gets along with pretty much anyone in the household, including cats – although your lap may get a little crowded with both. Lap weight: 10 to 18 pounds.

English toy spaniel. This is a cousin of the Cavalier King Charles spaniel. The toy spaniel has a pushed-in nose compared to the Cavalier. The hair coat is moderately long and wavy and is most often red and white. The breed has a merry disposition, like his cousin, but they are a little more shy with strange people or situations. Lap weight: 9 to 12 pounds.

Japanese chin. Described as elegant yet comical, the chin is not well known in the United States. The dog is considered part of royalty in Japan, but in this country has been referred to as the Japanese terrier. The dog has a distinct Oriental expression and an amazingly luxuriant coat. The head is big for his size and the eyes are set far apart, giving the chin a characteristic appearance. The most common colors are black and white. This is a dog whose function is strictly that of a companion. On your lap, a chin serves as an excellent way to keep your lower extremities warm. Lap weight: about 7 pounds.

Lhasa apso. The lhasa apso hails from Tibet, where the dog is called apso seng kye (bark lion sentinel dog). In fact, the lovable lhasa's keen hearing and intelligence make him a good watch dog. However, the small furry breed is even more exceptional as a lapdog. The long hair coat of the lhasa is most often tan in color and needs daily brushing. The lhasa is easily trained and very friendly, and makes an ideal companion pet. Lap weight: 13 to 15 pounds.

Maltese. As the name suggests, the small Maltese originated on the island of Malta, in the Mediterranean. The breed is believed to be more than 2,800 years old, and has been depicted in Greek ceramic art and in Roman poems. This diminutive breed looks fragile but is quite resilient. The long flowing white coat needs daily care. These dogs are smart and extremely affectionate. Lap weight: about 3 to 7 pounds.

Pomeranian. If you are looking for a spunky, perky little dog, look no further. Believed to originate in Pomerania, Germany, the Pomeranian is an alert, docile but lively companion. This compact little breed has quite a fuzzy hair coat and resembles a cuddly teddy bear. Lap weight: about 3 to 7 pounds.

Toy poodle. The poodle is an ancient breed with paintings representing the breed dating as far back as the 13th century. They hate to be alone and prefer the company of people instead of other dogs. The breed also hates to be ignored and does not like being thought of or treated as "just a dog." The toy poodle is the smallest member of the poodle family and, like their cousins, needs daily grooming to keep their curly coat tangle free.Lap weight: under 10 pounds.

Pug. For such a small dog, there's a lot of love stuffed into the pug's body. A clown by nature, the pug demands attention and adoration, but returns both in greater measure. The face is pushed in, forehead wrinkled and the eyes are large. The pug has a short hair coat with a curled tail that needs little care. They love to play, but the pug also enjoys a good lap session as much as the next dog. Lap weight: 14 to 18 pounds.

Shih tzu. Proud and intelligent, the shih tzu is from Tibet and China, where the name means “lion dog” because of the breed's appearance. The dog is also called “chrysanthemum-faced dog” because the hair around the face grows in all directions. The breed is alert, curious and gentle. Show dogs typically have a long flowing multicolored coat. Companion shih tzu's are usually trimmed, which means periodic trips to the groomer to keep him in tip top shape. Lap weight: 8 to 10 pounds.

Top Breeds as Solo Pets

Only Pet:

For some families, one dog is enough. Despite being pack animals, certain breeds of dogs tend to do better as the queen or king of the house. The following is a list of dog breeds that either prefer life as the only dog in the house or can do well as the only pet in the family.

Cairn terrier. These are small, sturdy dogs that are ideal either on a farm or in an apartment. They stand 9 to 10 inches at the shoulder and love being king of the house. Although they require daily grooming, there really isn't much dog there to groom. They are active, however, and will require a good, stress-relieving play session when you get home from work.

Chinese crested. These dogs are slowly gaining popularity. Not completely bald, the Chinese crested has some puffs of hair on the head and may have a very spotted skin. Despite his weird appearance, the Chinese crested is a great single family pet.


Shar-pei. The wrinkled look of this breed is instantly recognizable. The shar-pei is easily housetrained and enjoys being the only dog in the house. In a way, the breed's fastidiousness and attitude is a little like a cat's; they can be a little standoffish and will act like king or queen of the household if the owner lets them.

Chow chow. The chow is one of the most easily recognized breeds. Popular because of his thick fluffy coat, the chow can thrive outdoors, even in the coldest of weather. During the hot summer months, outdoor chows greatly appreciate a drastic haircut. They love their families and prefer to be the only pet.

Dandie Dinmont terrier. This little active terrier is related to the Scottish terrier, cairn terrier and West Highland white terrier. With a specialized hair coat that makes the dog look a little goofy to the novice, this breed is an excellent companion and family dog.

French bulldog. The French bulldog is not into barking, but will alert the family to strange noises. Ideal for apartment living, the French bulldog is fun loving and friendly but doesn't always get along with other dogs.

Great Pyrenees. The Great Pyrenees is happiest when he has a job to do. Whether guarding sheep, pulling carts or protecting his family, the Great Pyrenees seems to thrive outdoors, especially in winter.

Japanese chin. Described as elegant yet comical, the chin is not well known in the United States. This breed is considered part of royalty in Japan, but in this country has been referred to as the Japanese terrier. This is a dog whose function is strictly that of a companion. Not too interested in sharing his home with another dog, the chin is content to be with his owner.

Lhasa apso. The lhasa apso hails from Tibet, where the dog is called apso seng kye (bark lion sentinel dog). In fact, the lovable Lhasa's keen hearing and intelligence make him a good watchdog. However, the small furry breed is even more exceptional as a lapdog. Easily trained and very friendly, the lhasa likes people more than other dogs.

Maltese. As the name suggests, the small Maltese originated on the island of Malta, in the Mediterranean. This diminutive breed looks fragile but is quite resilient. The long flowing white coat needs daily care. These dogs are smart and extremely affectionate.

Mastiff. This giant and imposing dog was used as a hunter and protector. Content to patrol his home and guard his family, the mastiff can do well as the only dog in the house but needs and craves human companionship.

Pekingese. Legend has it that this native of present-day Beijing, China, is the offspring of a lion and a monkey. The Pekingese is a bold, regal toy dog that has an enthusiastic bark rivaling the Chihuahua's. The breed expects to be pampered and doesn't enjoy sharing the spotlight with other dogs.

Pomeranian. If you are looking for a spunky, perky little dog, look no further. Believed to originate in Pomerania, Germany, the Pomeranian is an alert, docile but lively companion. This compact little breed has quite a fuzzy hair coat and resembles a cuddly teddy bear.

Pug. Weighing in at 10 to 25 pounds, the pug is great as the only household pet. Small and compact with a pushed-in face, the pug is a clown at heart. With a short hair coat, this breed does not need special care and is a loving member of any family. As long as he is taken for brief walks, he is happy to sleep the day away.

Golden retriever. As one of the most popular breeds, the golden retriever is an excellent family pet and does well as the only dog in the house. All he needs is plenty of exercise and human companionship.

Labrador retriever. Similar to the golden retriever, the lab always tops the list of most popular dogs. This breed loves to be outside and needs plenty of exercise. All he asks in return is a lot of hugs and kisses and time with his human family.

Rottweiler. Despite his current reputation, the Rottweiler was originally developed as a herding dog. His size and strength quickly led him to a more productive life as a protector and guardian. Not too interested in spending time with other dogs, the Rott loves being with his human family.

Saint Bernard. No other dog has been as strongly linked to a barrel of whiskey as the Saint Bernard. Companions of monks, the Saint Bernard has saved many people who have been lost or injured in the frigid Swiss Alps. This dog is content to be the only dog in the family.

Samoyed. The Samoyed is an ancient breed who has spent the majority of his life in the company of humans. Used as a sled dog, these dogs are able to pull about 1 1/2 times their own weight in equipment and supplies. Known for his smiling face, the Samoyed is a happy and highly intelligent dog that readily protects his home.

Irish setter. The Irish setter is a beautiful, friendly, energetic dog. The setter will bark to let you know someone is at the house, but don't expect more than that. This beautiful red dog prefers human companionship over other canines.

Whippet. As a moderate-sized greyhound look-a-like, the whippet enjoys racing around a track just as much as he likes to cuddle next to his owner. A faithful family member, the whippet isn't the greatest watchdog. Be aware that many whippet owners have found that owning just one isn't enough. Content to be the only dog in the house, the whippet will tolerate other dogs, as long as they understand who is boss.

Yorkshire terrier. The Yorkie is a tiny dog with lots of spunk. They are happy to spend their days lounging on the sofa, but these calm dogs require regular grooming.

Top Dog Breeds for Apartment Life

Apartment Life:

Dogs make their homes in the city and country, in mansions, single family houses, condominiums, and even in apartments. For some breeds, life in an apartment is easy. If you live in an apartment and are looking to add a dog to your life, consider one of the following breeds.

Pug. Weighing in at 10 to 25 pounds, the pug is perfect for the apartment dweller. Small and compact with a pushed-in face, the pug is a clown at heart. With a short hair coat, this breed does not need special care and is a loving member of any family. As long as he is taken for brief walks, he is happy to sleep the day away.

Schipperke. Although not well known, this breed is great for apartment living. A small black dog with no tail, the Schipperke generally weighs around 10 to 18 pounds. This is an active dog that likes to be involved in all aspects of the family. Daily exercise is a must.


Schnauzer. The standard and miniature schnauzer are wonderful apartment pets. Eager to please and to keep the family safe, this breed usually requires regular grooming and daily exercise. They thrive on human companionship.

Scottish terrier. This working dog from the Scottish Highlands weighs around 15 to 20 pounds. Most often black, the Scottie is highly intelligent and needs daily exercise. Tough and compact, the Scottie is a loyal and protective family member.

Yorkshire terrier. The Yorkie is a tiny dog with lots of spunk. They are happy to spend their days lounging on the sofa, but these calm dogs require regular grooming. Weighing less than 10 pounds, this breed is well suited for apartment life.

Cocker spaniel. The popular cocker with his curly hair and sad eyes is a good choice for apartment life. He needs basic exercise and usually spends his days lounging and waiting for his owner's return.

Welsh corgi. At about 25 pounds, the Pembroke Welsh corgi is a popular pet. This stocky short tailed breed needs daily exercise but does not require a large living space.

West Highland white terrier. This small white terrier is playful and loveable but does require some exercise to keep him happy. The perfect size for an apartment, the Westie is a good watch dog and faithful companion that needs some grooming to keep his coat mat and tangle free.

Whippet. As a moderate-sized greyhound look-a-like, the whippet enjoys racing around a track just as much as he likes to cuddle next to his owner. A faithful family member, the whippet isn't the greatest watch dog. Be aware that many whippet owners have found that owning just one isn't enough.

Italian greyhound. The IG is a tiny version of the greyhound. Usually weighing around 10 pounds, the IG is fast and quick to learn. Though they do enjoy a good chase, the IG also loves snoozing on the sofa.

Lhasa apso. Hailing from Tibet, this small lap dog is made to be a pet. Weighing less than 15 pounds, the Lhasa does require regular grooming and expects to be treated like a king.

Poodle. The miniature and toy poodle make excellent apartment pets. These dogs crave human companionship but need daily walks. Well known for being low shed, the poodle is one of the more popular canine apartment dwellers.

Bichon frise. This white fluff ball is a happy-go-lucky dog. Faithful and obedient, the bichon is a wonderful addition to any apartment. Weighing around 15 to 20 pounds, the bichon does require regular grooming to keep his coat looking great.

Boxer. As a medium-sized dog, the boxer is one of the largest breeds that can do well in an apartment. Their short hair and pleasant disposition make them a great choice for an apartment dweller who wants a dog of substance. Brief daily walks are enough to keep this dog happy and healthy.

Boston terrier. The Boston is a small black and white terrier that loves to make you laugh. After brief periods of activity, the Boston loves to curl up on the sofa while you read a good book. Obedient and loyal, the Boston is a good watch dog.

Dachshund. With their short legs and long bodies, the dachshund can do well in an apartment. They do enjoy a good walk or run in the park, or even the occasional wiener race, but the dachshund is also comfortable in a nice warm bed.

English bulldog. Once you get used to their snoring, the bulldog will prove to be a cherished family pet. Not much on exercise, the bulldog just needs to spend some time checking out the grass several times a day.

Cairn terrier. Despite their small size, the cairn terrier is a tough little dog. This breed does well in any living environment as long as there are people around. As a terrier, this breed does need exercise but does not require a large living space.

Chihuahua. What the Chihuahua lacks in size he certainly makes up for in personality. Faithful and protective, this dog does well in even the smallest of apartments. Weighing around 5 pounds, the Chihuahua is relatively easy to train and care for.

Pomeranian. This little fluff ball looks just like a tiny fox. Weighing around 5 pounds, the Pom is an adorable breed that thrives on human companionship. Requiring little space, the Pom is perfect for an apartment.

Maltese. This popular breed of royalty expects to be treated like a princess. With a long flowing white coat, the Maltese does require regular grooming but prefers to be pampered instead of working for a living. This results in a docile and great apartment companion.

Top Dog Breeds for Life Outdoors

Outdoor Life:

Due to space limitations or personal preference, some people choose to have their dogs live the majority of their lives outdoors. Some dogs do better than others as an outdoor dog.

Curly coated retriever. This retriever is a hardy dog that loves water. His thick coat gives him protection from the harshest weather and he is a faithful and devoted guard dog.

Rottweiler. This powerful dog can live indoors or outdoors. Originally bred as a herding dog, the Rottweiler is now best known as a formidable guard dog.

Samoyed. This big white dog with a smiling face is popular because of his gentleness. Sturdy and covered with a thick coat, this dog can live outdoors as long as there is plenty of contact with his family.

Siberian husky. The husky has historically lived outdoors in the harshest lands.
Bred to pull sleds across frozen terrain, this dog is very hardy and quite content to live outside.

Norwegian elkhound. This dog is descended from canines that served with the Vikings. Brave enough to track bear and moose, the elkhound is also hardy enough to live outdoors.

Mastiff. This giant and imposing dog was used as a hunter and protector. Content to patrol his home and guard his family, the mastiff can thrive outdoors but needs companionship.

Old English sheepdog. Easily recognized by his thick white and grey coat, the Old English sheepdog is not as popular as other breeds but he can live anywhere. At home in an apartment or yard, the OES needs daily grooming to keep his coat healthy.

Greater Swiss mountain dog. This breed was developed in Switzerland as a working dog. Bred to guard, herd and haul heavy carts, the Greater Swiss mountain dog enjoys the outdoor life.

Bernese mountain dog. As with the Greater Swiss mountain dog, the Bernese was also developed as a draft dog. Hardy and strong, the Bernese is at home indoors or out and thrives in cold weather.

Great Pyrenees. The Great Pyrenees is happiest when he has a job to do. Whether guarding sheep, pulling carts or protecting his family, the Great Pyrenees seems to thrive outdoors, especially in winter.

Irish wolfhound. This gentle giant was originally developed to hunt wolves in Ireland. The massive size of this dog leads him to enjoy the wide open spaces of the great outdoors.

Keeshond. With his thick coat, the Keeshond can do well outdoors, as long as his family is nearby and provides daily grooming and companionship.

Alaskan malamute. Bred to pull sleds over frigid terrain, the Alaskan malamute is ideally suited for life outdoors, though not in hot climates. His heavy coat is better for cold climates.

Australian shepherd. Despite his name, the Australian shepherd is an American made dog. Used in many different ways, the Aussie is very intelligent and craves activity. Outdoor life can work well for this dog, provided there is plenty of things to do.

Australian cattle dog. Unlike the Aussie, the Australian cattle dog is truly from Australia. Developed to herd cattle, this dog needs lots of mental stimulation and physical activiy. Provided he is securely fenced in a very large yard, the Australian cattle dog can do well outside.

Bearded collie. The bearded collie may not be as popular as some other breeds but he has plenty of admirers. A hardy dog that works as a sheep dog in Scotland, this breed has a thick coat that allows his to thrive in cold outdoor weather.

American Foxhound. As a hound developed to hunt foxes, the American foxhound thrives on outdoor activities. Not the best apartment dog, this breed needs a sturdy fence and plenty of room to run.

Belgian sheepdog. As one of the representative breeds of Belgium, this dog is cherished as a police dog, guard dog, herding dog and companion. With a thick coat, this breed can live outdoors, provided he is given lots of attention.

Chow chow. The chow is one of the most easily recognized breeds. Popular because of his thick fluffy coat, the chow can thrive outdoors, even in the coldest of weather. During the hot summer months, outdoor chows greatly appreciate a drastic haircut.

German shepherd. Nearly always topping the most popular breed lists, the German shepherd has natural guarding and protecting instincts. His double haircoat insulates him in cold weather and he can be quite content spending his days and nights outside.

Top Dog Breeds for Families

Families with Children:

Whether you feel it is time to add a dog to the family or you have finally caved in to your children's pestering, you have finally decided to get a dog. But, with so many breeds available, which one would be good for your family and what characteristics should you look for?

Children are often unaware of their own strength and can unintentionally play a little rough. It is the responsibilty of the parents to supervise any interaction between pets and children and to teach the children to play gently. There are, however, times when a clumbsy child may tumble near the family dog and latch on in an attempt to stop a fall. Or, the child may pet the dog a little too rough as she is learning how to be gentle. For these reasons, any family dog should be tolerant enough to allow some hard patting or tail and ear tugging.

He might also have to be patient enough to sit through a “dress-up” session or tea party and even periodically allow his nails to be painted. Dogs living with children need to have enough energy to withstand hours of play and yet not be so rambunctious that injury could occur.

Many breeds work well with children, but always remember: There are good dogs and bad dogs in every breed. It's important to know that individual dogs within breeds can demonstrate their own, unique personality traits. No matter what breed you choose, you shouldn't leave dogs and young children together unsupervised – for the safety of both.

Below is a list of the top 20.

Golden retriever. The golden retreiver is an excellent choice for families that enjoy lots of outdoor activities. Though originally developed to help hunt birds, the golden rapidly proved himself as a loyal and devoted family member.

Pembroke Welsh corgi. At about 25 pounds, the Pembroke Welsh corgi is a popular pet. This stocky short tailed breed needs daily exercise and loves romping with the kids. They are best with older kids (over 6 or 7 years) as some dogs can be bossy and possessive.

West Highland white terrier. This small white terrier is playful and loveable but does require some exercise to keep him happy. The Westie is a good watch dog and faithful friend that needs some grooming to keep his coat mat and tangle free. The Westie can be an excellent dog for older children. They tend not to be tolerant of children's accidental mistreatments. They are often not recommended for households with children under the age of ten.

Irish setter. This beautiful red dog was originally developed to help with hunting but early on, the breed showed his natural aptitude as a companion. Loved by many and always eager to please, the Irish setter is a part of many families.

Schnauzer. The schnauzer is a wonderful family pet. Eager to please and to keep the family safe, this breed usually requires regular grooming and daily exercise. This breed thrives on human companionship and is available in three different sizes.

Labrador retriever. The lab is a popular choice for active families, especially those that enjoy water sports. The labrador seems to have boundless energy to keep up with the kids as well as natural protective instincts. Though originally developed to help hunt birds, the lab is also a loyal and devoted family member.

Poodle. The poodle is an intelligent and friendly dog that craves human companionship. Happiest when allowed to run and play, the poodle is well known for being low shed, and comes in three different sizes to suit any taste.

Bichon frise. This white fluff ball is a happy-go-lucky dog. Faithful and obedient, the bichon is a wonderful addition to any home. The bichon does require regular grooming to keep his coat looking great but loves to investigate and participate in anything.

Airedale. A sturdy dog, the airedale takes his job as a family friend and protector seriously. Willing to join in the fun anytime, the airedale always keeps a watchful eye out for any potential dangers.

Basset hound. With his sad droopy eyes, you may think the basset is a lazy hound. But, as soon as kids are around, this dog will jump right in and keep up with the best of them.

Beagle. The beagle may be an active breed but he fits in well with very active families. Needing a good place to sleep and plenty of games to play, this breed can easily join any family.

Shih tzu. Originally bred as a companion animal for royalty, the shih tzu still enjoys a life a luxury. Not too proud to get down and dirty with the kids, this dog loves nothing better than sharing time with people, even if that means getting dressed up for a tea party.

Boxer. The boxer may look a bit intimidating but he is actually a sweet and friendly dog. A natural guardian, the boxer prefers to spend his time with people than with other canines. Though this breed can do well in quiet homes, he can also thrive in busy active families.

Cairn terrier. Despite their small size, the cairn terrier is a tough little dog. This breed does well in any living environment as long as there are people around. As a terrier, this breed does need exercise and a romp in the park or running with the neighborhood kids suits him just fine.

Collie. Forever connected to "Lassie", the collie is considered by many to be one of the best family pets. Intelligent yet patient, the collie is loved by families all over the world.

Boston terrier. The Boston is a small black and white terrier that loves to make you laugh. After brief periods of activity, the Boston loves to curl up on the sofa while you read a good book. Obedient and loyal, the Boston is a good watch dog and loyal family pet, especially for the not so active families.

Newfoundland. This gentle giant may drool a little too much for some people but has made a wonderful big protective teddy bear for many lucky children. Because of his size, families with very young children may want to wait a few years but those families who enjoy life near water can rest easy with this dog near by.

Pomeranian. This little fluffball looks just like a tiny fox. Weighing around 5 pounds, the Pom is an adorable breed that thrives on human companionship. Requiring little space, the Pom is great for a family with older children.

Pug. Not at all pugnacious, the pug is an affectionate, loveable, even-tempered breed with great charm and dignity. Pugs love being part of the family. They are playful companions for children and will happily curl up on your lap for a nap.

Whippet. Whippets are quiet, gentle and loyal. This dog tends to greet strangers with a kiss and loves children. The also love to chase things so should always be kept on a leash or in a secure yard when venturing outdoors.

 

Top 155 Ranked AKC Breeds

For the 17th year in a row, the Labrador retriever is once again America's favorite purebred dog, according to registration numbers tallied by the American Kennel Club. The AKC released the figures and, as in past years, the Labrador far outstrips the other dogs in the top 10. Popularity

All breeds in the top 10 are the same as in 2005 but the order has changed. Two breeds climbed the chart. First is the Yorkshire Terrier. It is now the # 2 registered AKC dog climbing form # 3 last year. The year before (2004), the beloved Yorkie was #5. The German Shepherd dog is now # 3, moving up from the #4 spot.

In 2006, the very popular golden retriever got bumped from 2nd place down to 4th place being replaced by the Yorkshire Terrier!

Last year, in 2005, one new breed joined the top 10 list and one got bumped off. The Miniature Schnauzer came in at #10 displacing the Chihuahua into the #11 position.

This year stats show the Miniature schnauzer still holding strong in the # 10 spot.