Learn the rich history of the smallest breed in the world, including its ancient Mexican ancestry and popular media image. Visit a monastery in Mexico where carvings depict the Chihuahua's ancient ancestors.
One of the few breeds that are native to the United States, the Boston terrier is considered by many to be the ultimate house pet. Its size, intelligence and gentle nature make this terrier a great family companion.
Take an in-depth look at the boxer as a German historian traces the development of the breed. Meet one of the top boxers in the country, and get in on the ear controversy -to crop or not to crop.
The dachshund was originally bred to tunnel and scurry its way through brush and burrows to catch beaver, weasels and other small prey. But this tenacious little dog can do much more because of its keen sense of smell and quick, short legs.
The Weimaraner has gone from versatile hunting dog to pop icon. Visit with photographer William Wegman in his Maine summerhouse and meet his family Weimers.
The poodle?s ability to learn is considered exceptional. This breed is ranked number two in intelligence, and while they may have an aloof appearance, these dogs have a sense of humor and joie de vivre!
Brought to England by ancient dog traders, the Mastiff is truly an antique breed. Often suffering from joint problems, these gentle giants need plenty of exercise.
Taking its name from the Canadian maritime providence, the Newfoundland dog is a living, breathing history lesson. Putting to use their webbed feet and large lung capacity, these dogs can really save the day.
The original Saint Bernards were used to save lives at the St. Bernard Monastery in the Swiss Alps. Today, the rescues are not limited to the snow-capped mountains. Learn how this brave breed continues to be invaluable to their owners.
The bulldog's image is that of a tenacious, tough-spirited animal, but today's English bulldog is mild-mannered and kind. Its deceiving image makes this dog a prime target for dog-snatching.
The Australian shepherd is best known for its quick maneuvers and intuitive thinking on the range. The breed is first and foremost a herder of sheep, but the typical pet owner must make do when there's nothing around for an Aussie to wrangle.
Sylvia Hammarstrom has bred more than a thousand champion Schnauzers in her career. They include all three breeds: miniatures, standards and giants. Her kennel is responsible for breeding nearly one-third of all the giant Schnauzers in the country.
The Yorkshire terrier's ancestors were hunters by nature. They started out as commoners' dogs, responsible for catching the multitude of rats that plagued Yorkshire, England in the late 1800s.
The only native American retrieving breed, Chessies are specialists when it comes to duck hunting. Their strong olfactory senses and keen tracking skills are also used to help solve crimes.
Considered one of the most popular toy breeds in the world, this lapdog descended from sled dogs and herding breeds of Europe. Queen Victoria made the breed famous when she brought a Pom back from Italy.
Brits created this breed to flush feathered game from the thorny brush. This Spaniel's attitude matches its bouncy, animated style. The English Springer Spaniel lives to please and makes a pleasant pet for all family members.
The Bullmastiff was bred first and foremost to protect. The British created the breed to guard gamekeepers' estates from poachers. Even today, the Bullmastiff is a preferred guard dog.
This animal's compact size makes it popular with folks who have smaller yards. The breed also travels well, and its trademark bark cautions owners to anything out of the ordinary.
The legendary loyalty of the Akita caught the attention of Helen Keller who introduced the breed to America. Originally, the Akita was an all-purpose hunting dog in its native Japan. The breed is said to have been used as a water retriever for fishermen.
The Shetland sheepdog was created to herd small sheep in the Shetland Islands. Today, Shelties can strut their stuff in the show ring rather than around the corral. This intelligent breed has a trademark bark to ward off danger.
With both spaniel and setter in it's bloodline, the Brittany is a versatile bird dog. The smallest of the versatile gundogs, the Brittany is an active dog with an independent spirit. Training becomes necessary in order to live happily with the Brittany.
Despite being a pure breed for less than a century, German shepherds' intelligence and strength make them extremely popular as pets, guard dogs, police dogs, seeing eye dogs and herders.