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Lithe and leggy, Lurchers sway between being lounge lizards to sprinting bursts á la Usian Bolt. They can also be a bit needy for human affection, and tend not to agree with a telling-off.
Medium to high volume shedders, they do need a good comb regularly. A strong daily sprint keeps them on track too.
Affectionate, kind-spirited dogs - but who really know what's going on behind that fixed stare?
An intelligent dog, certainly so when scavenging for food.
They can range from highly-affectionate to hyperactive and are good around families and children if raised around them. Smaller pets can be seen as 'prey' for the chase tend not to fare well.
John Cleese
Maggie, Lucky, Jackson
Elegant as befits the breed.
Loyal, affectionate, kind and gets along well with others: all of the qualities you might look for in a significant other, but with an unparalleled sense of smell and much easier to groom.
Popularised by Queen Victoria, Pomeranians are a breed with a high opinion of themselves, and want the world to know. Proof that big dogs can come in small packages.
In the Toy Group, these companion dogs are lively, cuddly, and love their owners. These small dogs have a lot of energy to expend.
Yorkies are one of the most popular breeds in the UK, and with good reason; they’re loyal little companions who’ll always look out for their owner’s best interests. Feisty and independent, they’ll always let you know when it’s time for a walk, play or food.
Westies are one of the most distinctive terrier breeds, with their little black eyes and nose peering out from under bushy eyebrows from a loveable face. Possessive of their owners and highly social, they tend to be friendly and playful.
Shih Tzu are an ancient breed from China. Calmer than many other toy breeds but just as loyal and affectionate, Shih Tzu are great indoor dogs, who generally prefer curling up on your lap to long walks.
These little policemen have the sideburns of a Victorian adventurer and the manners to match. Nobody seems to have told them they’re small dogs, or if they have, the Schnauzers aren't listening.
These little sentinels might look like a bundle of cuddles but they were originally bred to be watchdogs in the temples of Tibet. Smart and dominant, the Lhasa Apso is a challenge to train, but will prove her loyalty at every opportunity when housebroken.
Best known as a racing dog, Greyhounds are also capable of sleeping almost all day. They’re no divas though, and are among the most affectionate and unaggressive dogs going.
Known as much for their kind-heartedness as their magnificent physique and intelligence, Golden Retrievers are great family pets, and have amazing eyebrows.
Delicate, ferocious, cute, yappy, cuddly, demanding, loyal, entertaining: Chihuahuas can be all these things at once. Chihuahuas are an ancient breed from Mexico, and each one has their own quirks and personality.
Faithful and loyal to a fault, Boxers are halfway between a butler and a bouncer for your family. Despite their tough-guy face, Boxers tend to be gentle and patient, particularly with children.
Rugged and athletic, Border Terriers are surprisingly nimble, as suits their heritage as a hunting and ratting dog. Good for walks in the country, romantic sunset strolls, and long, meaningful looks into each other's eyes.
A teddy bear that barks, Bichon Frise are one of the original breeds of toy dog, having been popular with royalty and sailors in centuries gone by. Cheerful and affectionate, they love to learn tricks.
The Staffie is a seriously fun and courageous personality. The “tough guy” look masks a friendly and energetic little person who wants to be around humans and is a bit of a family guy.
One of the most popular dog breeds, their boundless energy and good nature make Labs ideal companions. No coincidence, then, that they are the number one guide dog breed in the UK.
This doe-eyed delight is a true companion dog, ever-so-social and eager to please. A real family dog, they usually prefer the house but sometimes the spaniel in them comes out to play to give chase.
Perhaps unfairly tarnished with the image of the ferocious guard dog, Rottweilers (whose origins were in Germany herding livestock and later as police dogs) are grand physical specimens who are as loyal and courageous as they come.
Cocker Spaniels are one of the friendliest breeds out there - incredibly affectionate and very willing to please. We should all be a bit more Cocker and the world would be a better place.
