The "Westie" is known for its friendly, strong-willed personality and a remarkably bright white coat. It’s a real terrier with tons of courage, confidence, determination and loyalty packed into a tiny body.

PHYSICAL CHARACTERISTICS
The short-coupled, small, and compact body of the Westie allows it to fit into narrow passages like the dens of foxes. In such places, it is impossible for the dog to turn as well, though its short legs allow it to move. The dog’s sharp teeth and strong jaws help it attack foxes in closed areas. The tough double coat of the Westie, particularly the straight and hard outer coat around the head, can protect it from its opponent’s teeth, while its long tail helps it to be easily pulled from holes.

PERSONALITY AND TEMPERAMENT
The West Highland White Terrier loves a daily run in a safe place or an on-leash walk and is fond of playing indoors. This independent dog with a stubborn streak has a tendency to dig and be vocal. The happy and inquisitive West Highland White Terrier is always busy and involved in something. At the same time, it is among the friendliest and most affectionate of terriers, but can be demanding. It does not behave in an amicable way with small animals.

CARE
The Westie should be allowed to sleep inside in everything except very mild weather. The wire coat of this terrier needs occasional combing every week, plus shaping once every three months. Clipping is preferred for shaping pets and stripping is meant for show dogs. It is not easy to keep the color of the coat white in all areas.

Even though the Westie loves the outdoors, it can also become a proper indoor dog if it is given regular exercise outside. A moderate or short on-leash walk or a good game outdoors every day can meet the dog’s exercise needs.

HEALTH
The Westie, which has an average lifespan of 12 to 14 years, may be prone to minor health problems like Keratoconjunctivitis Sicca (KCS), copper toxicosis, patellar luxation, and cataract, and major problems such as Legg-Perthes Disease, Craniomandibular Osteopathy (CMO), globoid cell leukodystrophy, tremors, and skin disease. Deafness is also seen in the breed occasionally. To identify some of these issues, a veterinarian may recommend hip, knee, and eye tests for the dog.

HISTORY AND BACKGROUND
The West Highland White Terrier, as well as other Scottish terriers, share similar roots and the former is a very good hunter of fox, vermin, and badger. There was a time when the Skye, Cairn, Scottish, and Westie Terriers were regarded as one breed that had some diversity. Selective breeding using qualities like coat color or type may have developed distinct varieties, which could have been maintained in isolation in different areas of the Scottish mainland and some western islands.

In 1907, the West Highland White Terrier was popular for the first time as the Poltalloch Terrier living with Col. E.D. Malcolm, who had bred short-legged white terriers in the past. Over the years, different names like Cairn, Roseneath, Poltalloch, Little Skye, and White Scottish have been given to this breed.

In 1908, the American Kennel Club registered the breed for the first time as the Roseneath Terrier, but in 1909, the name was altered to West Highland White Terrier. The breed has established itself as a popular house dog and a competitive show dog ever since.

PHYSICAL CHARACTERISTICS
The American Bulldog has a very sturdy and muscular build, weighing anywhere from 60 to 120 pounds at a height of 20 to 28 inches. This breed has a large head with strong jaws with ears that may be cropped, semi-prick, rose or drop. The coat is short and soft coming in any variation of colors, although solid black, blue, merle or tricolor is undesirable.

PERSONALITY AND TEMPERAMENT
Although a larger breed, the American Bulldog is a very gentle and loving breed that loves children. The American Bulldog is brave and protective and is best when trained at a young age.

CARE
The short fine coat requires little grooming and the American Bulldog will do okay as an apartment pet as long as it gets sufficient outdoors exercise.

HEALTH
The American Bulldog generally lives about 10 to 16 years and is considered a healthy breed. Some genetic issues common to the breed include neuronal ceroidlipofuscinosis, lchthyosis, disorders of the kidney and thyroid, ACL tears, hip dysplasia and elbow dysplasia, cherry eye, entropoin, ectropion and bone cancer.

HISTORY AND BACKGROUND
An older version of the Bulldog originated in England and was used as a work dog catching cattle and guarding property until it became the breed of choice in a brutal sport known as bull baiting. By the end of World War II, the breed was almost extinct, however, a few devote breeders decided to revive the American Bulldog.

Two different lines of Bulldogs appeared during this growth period; however, most of today’s American Bulldogs are a cross between the two. The American Bulldog was recognized by the United Kennel Club in 1999.

The Lhasa Apso is a small companion dog first developed in Tibet. Its lion-like appearance and bold personality make it a lovable addition to many families today.

PHYSICAL CHARACTERISTICS
Not generally thought of as a great athlete, the Lhasa Apso does have well-developed thighs and quarters, a long body, and a strong loin and haunch. Its coat, which can be seen in a variety of cuts and colors, is coarse, heavy, straight, and long. Its darker tipped whiskers and beard, meanwhile, lend a stately, almost lion-like appearance to the dog. Many Lhasa Apsos also have a slight under bite.

PERSONALITY AND TEMPERAMENT
Despite its appearance, the Lhasa Apso is a tough dog -- bold, independent, stubborn and reserved towards strangers. The dog, however, is lovable towards its owner and makes for a great companion.

CARE
The Lhasa Apso's long coat requires combing and brushing every other day. It loves short walks and outdoor play sessions, but should not be kept outside.

HEALTH
The Lhasa Apso, which has an average lifespan of approximately 12 to 14 years, is susceptible to major health conditions like patellar luxation and minor aliments like progressive retinal atrophy (PRA), distichiasis, renal cortical hypoplasia, and entropion. To identify some of these issues, a veterinarian may run hip, knee, and eye exams on the dog.

HISTORY AND BACKGROUND
Although the Lhasa Apso’s exact origin is unknown, it is believed to be an ancient dog breed. Once considered an integral part of Tibetan monasteries and villages, the Lhasa Apso was thought to incorporate the souls of reincarnated Buddhist Lamas after their death. The Lhasa Apso also functioned as a monastery watchdog, alerting monks of incoming visitors, and was thus named Abso Seng Kye or "Bark Lion Sentinel Dog." Some theorize the breed may have derived its Western name, Lhasa Apso, because of its goat-like coat and from the corrupted form of the Tibetan word rapso, which means goat.

When it was first introduced to England, the breed was referred to as the Lhasa Terrier, though it was not a real terrier. The original American Lhasa Apsos arrived in 1930, a gift from Thubten Gyatso, the 13th Dalai Lama, to C. Suydam Cutting, a wealthy American naturalist. In 1935, the Lhasa Apso was put under the American Kennel Club Terrier Group, but in 1959, it was transferred to the Non-Sporting Group. Today, the breed is a popular pet and show dog; a Lhasa Apso, Homero del Alcazar, even became World Champion at the World Dog Show in 2005.

The Dachshund is a small scenthound with short legs and a distinctively elongated body. The breed's beginning can be traced to the 1600s, when it was used in Germany to hunt, track and retrieve burrow dwelling animals, mainly the badger. Today it is one of the most popular breeds in the U.S., and can be found in the fields as hunting companions or in homes as a family pet.

PHYSICAL CHARACTERISTICS
The Dachshund can move and enter easily through a tunnel or den because of its long, low-slung body. The dog’s unconstrained and smooth gait is enhanced by its powers of stamina, ease of movement, and dexterity. The muscles should be strong without appearing bulky, and the waist tapered slightly. It is the appearance of slender athleticism. Its trim profile, in fact, was used as a symbol for the 1972 Summer Olympics in Munich. The distinctive forward flopping ears protect the Dachshunds ear canals from the entry of foreign objects as it races through brush, and the slightly curled up tail serves to make it visible to trailing hunters.

There are three sizes of Dachshund, each based on the practical purpose of the designated prey. The larger Dachshund, weighing in at 30 to 35 pounds, is used for hunting badgers and boars, and the smaller, standard sized dog, weighing from 16 to 22 pounds, is used for hunting badgers, foxes and hares. The smallest size, the miniature, which weighs under 11 pounds, is more commonly kept as a house pet.

In addition, there are three types of coats that are standard for this breed. The silky long coat can be straight or wavy; the smooth coat is short and glossy; and the wiry coat has hard, thick, tight hair with a fine undercoat. All varieties of coats offer protection from extreme weather conditions. The pleasant and intelligent expression of the dog give it a confident demeanor.

PERSONALITY AND TEMPERAMENT
The daring, adventurous and curious Dachshund is fond of digging, hunting, chasing game, and tracking by scent. It is a true combination of terrier and hound. Although the dog is playful with children, time spent with them should be attended to by adults, since the Dachshund does not have a wealth of patience for being mishandled -- unintentional though it may be.

This breed does well with strangers, but tends to be reserved and shy, and may sometimes snarl at those it is unfamiliar with. If it recognizes what appears to be an attack on its family members, the Dachshund is unreservedly quick to defend against danger. The wire-haired varieties are bolder than the long-haired ones, which are less terrier-like and quiet. Meanwhile, the miniature varieties are even more timid with strangers. However, this independent little dog enjoys spending time with people and in taking part in family activities.

Also of note, in addition to its attentive and protective nature, the Dachshund's loud voice makes it an ideal watchdog.

Because of its size, the Dachshund can adapt to apartment living or city life. Still, this breed needs daily exercise and opportunities to spend its energy. Physical games in the yard or at the park and daily leash walks will keep the Dachshund in top shape, and will allow it to relax when it is at home. This breed especially relishes a good game of catch.

The long-haired Dachshunds need to be brushed and combed at least once or twice a week, with occasional trimmings, and the wire coat breed should be combed or brushed at least once a week. The least grooming is required for the smooth coated breed, though it is a good idea to trim stray hair and strip dead hair about twice a year.

HEALTH
The Dachshund, which has an average lifespan of 12 to 14 years, occasionally suffers from diabetes, gastric torsion, deafness, seizures, patellar luxation, keratoconjunctivitis sicca (KCS) and Cushing's disease. The major health concern affecting the dog is intervertebral disk disease (IVDD), causing spinal cord problems due to the Dachshund's elongated body. Obesity will increase the risk of spinal injury. Eye tests should be included as part of the regular physical check-up, especially for "double dapples," or Dachshunds with two different colored eyes, which are prone to hearing and visual problems.

HISTORY AND BACKGROUND
First mentioned in 18th-century dog books, the Dachshund breed was referred to as the Badger Dog, Little Burrow Dog, Dacksel or "low crooked legged" breed. The word Dachshund is German, literally meaning "badger hound." This name was given to them because they were used for the extermination of badgers, although they were also very useful for hunting other prey, such as foxes and rabbits, because of their ability to enter burrows to catch them. Used in number, Dachshunds were also used to hunt boar. Their courageous fight to the finish attitude make them worthy opponents, but their apparent lack of self-awareness concerning size can lead them into situations where they are at a distinct disadvantage.

The breed has three sizes (although the larger sizes are combined as one size for breed standard and show purposes). The large, or standard Dachshund is from 16 to 35 pounds, and the smaller, miniature Dachshund is under 11 pounds. The smooth coated Dachshund, specifically, was first developed by crossing the Bracke French pointer and the vermin-killing Pinscher. Meanwhile, the long-haired version is thought to have been the result of crossbreeding between the smooth Dachshund, the German Stoberhund and spaniels. And the wire-coated Dachshunds which were developed in the late 1800s, was a mix of smooth Dachshunds with Dandie Dinmont Terrier and German Wire-haired Pinschers. These three varieties were excellent hunters in their respective climatic conditions and terrain, and were all very strong and powerful dogs that hunted small mammals, foxes, and badgers.

Prior to the 20th century, small Dachshunds, produced by crossing Pinschers and toy terriers, were used for chasing small quarry-like rabbits. However, these miniatures types lacked Dachshund proportion. Strict criteria were taken up for the Dachshund by 1910, and each variety was crossed with various kinds of breeds to get only the best results. Wartime brought some amount of ill repute to the German borne Dachshund, leading to brief declines in popularity, but there have always remained those who have returned the Dachshund's steadfastness and loyalty with the like, and the Dachshund has continued to grow in popularity, standing tall as one of the most popular companion dogs in the U.S.

The Beagle is a medium-sized breed belonging to the hound sporting group. Though many variations of this breed have existed throughout history, the modern breed emerged in England in the early 1800s. The Beagle is a popular choice for pet owners because of its size and calm temperament, and is useful for hunters because of its sharp sense of smell.

PHYSICAL CHARACTERISTICS
Having a solid structure, the Beagle resembles a Foxhound. Hunters can follow the dog on foot, and the tuneful bay of the Beagle aids hunters in locating the dog from a distance. Because of its moderate size, the Beagle can even be carried to the hunting site, where it can then scurry into the dense undergrowth to look for the target. The dog receives protection against the thick underbrush from its coarse and close coat. And being an amicable dog makes it a great pack hunter, mixing well with other dogs.

PERSONALITY AND TEMPERAMENT
Known to be among the most friendly of the hound breeds, the Beagle was developed to be a pack hunter. The best qualities in the Beagle are its fondness for exploring the outdoors and its enthusiasm for trailing. This independent breed barks, howls, and sometimes runs off on a trail on its own. Because it is also an incredibly tolerant, calm and adventurously playful dog, the Beagle also makes a perfect pet for families with children.

CARE
The Beagle is a social dog that is particularly well suited to the company of humans and other dogs alike. It also needs to spend equal time in the yard as it does in the house. Regular exercise, such as a romp at the park or in a spacious yard area, along with regular leash-led walks are great outdoor activities for the Beagle. This breed can withstand temperate climates and live outdoors most seasons, as long as it has bedding and an enclosed, warm shelter. With its short, close coat, the Beagle does not require extensive grooming. An occasional brushing to encourage turnover of hair, and to minimize hair buildup in the house is all that is needed to keep your Beagle looking healthy and vibrant.

HEALTH
The Beagle has an average lifespan of 12 to 15 years. While this breed is generally healthy overall, some specific ailments that are known to affect the Beagle breed are patellar luxation, glaucoma, epilepsy, central progressive retinal atrophy (CPRA), hypothyroidism, distichiasis, chondrodysplasia, cherry eye, and keratoconjunctivitis sicca (KCS). Deafness, cataract, hemophilia A, demodicosis, and umbilical hernia are some other health problems that affect the breed, while some major ailments include primary carnitine deficiency (CUD) and intervertebral disk disease. Some exams used to identify these conditions include hip, thyroid, and eye tests.

HISTORY AND BACKGROUND
The word “beagle” is thought to have come from certain old French words meaning an open throat, a possible connection to the dog’s musical bay. It is also speculated that the dog’s name might have derived from old French, Celtic or English words meaning small. Beagle-like dogs were probably used for the popular sport of hare-hunting in England during the 1300s, but the term "beagle" was not used until 1475. Hunters would follow the dog on foot and sometimes even carry one in his pocket. There were several sizes of Beagles in the 1800s, but the pocket-size dogs were most popular. These small dogs measured only about nine inches and required the hunter's help while crossing rough fields. Because the smaller Beagles were slower and easier to follow on foot, they appealed especially to women, the elderly, and those who otherwise did not have the stamina or inclination to keep up with an active dog.

The first mention of the Beagle in the United States occurred in the town records of Ipswich, Massachusetts, in 1642. Before the American Civil War, people in the South used Beagles, but these dogs did not resemble English Beagles. However, when the war was over, English Beagles were imported for crossbreeding and to develop the modern American Beagle we know today. The last part of the 19th century saw the emergence of Beagles as popular competitors on the field and in exhibitions. Soon thereafter, this little hound dog with the melodic howl came to be amongst the most preferred family pets in the U.S.

The Cocker Spaniel comes in two varieties: the English Cocker Spaniel and the American Cocker Spaniel. And though they are different, both can be traced back to mid-19th century England. Originally bred for hunting small game, its jolly disposition has made the American Cocker Spaniel a pet in many homes today.

PHYSICAL CHARACTERISTICSThe Cocker Spaniel happens to be the smallest of all the Sporting Group spaniels. Its athletic, compact body and soft facial expression gives the dog an appealing look, while its most distinctive feature is the Cocker Spaniel's medium-length silky coat, which can either be slightly wavy or flat. Today, a majority of Cocker Spaniels have a heavy coat meant for field work. The dog also has a strong and balanced gait.

The American Cocker Spaniel is generally split up into three color varieties: black, ASCOB (Any Solid Color Other Than Black), and parti-colors. The black varieties include solid blacks and black and tan, while the ASCOB varieties include colors ranging from the lightest creams to the darkest reds, including brown and brown with tan points. Parti-colored Spaniels have large areas of white with another color(s), usually black and white, brown and white, or red and white.

PERSONALITY AND TEMPERAMENT
The American Cocker Spaniel, apart from being sensitive and responsive, is very keen on obeying instructions and learning. Always cheerful and affable, it has even been dubbed as the "merry" Cocker. While this breed loves staying indoors, it considers outdoor walks one of its favorite activities. The American Cocker Spaniel is also known for its excessive barking, especially if it has been cooped inside the house all day.

CARE
It is important that the American Cocker Spaniel receives regular eye, ear, and feet cleanings to keep them dirt-free. The dog also needs its coat brushed a minimum of two to three times a week, as well as a monthly hair trimming and nail clipping. Its exercise requirements, as with many other dog breeds, can be met with regular walks. And as the American Cocker Spaniel is a social dog that needs constant human companionship, it should be kept indoors to be closer with the family.

HEALTH
The American Cocker Spaniel generally lives between 12 to 15 years. Some of its serious health problems include progressive retinal atrophy (PRA), cataracts, patellar luxation, and glaucoma. Diseases like elbow dysplasia, gastric torsion, and epilepsy can occasionally affect the breed. Other minor health problems that the American Cocker Spaniel suffers from include cardiomyopathy, ectropion, urinary stones, otitis externa, canine hip dysplasia (CHD), hypothyroidism, seborrhea, phosphofructokinase deficiency, entropion, "cherry eye," liver disease, allergies, and congestive heart failure. In order to identify these conditions early, a veterinarian may recommend hip, knee, thyroid, or eye exams during routine checkups; DNA tests may be used to diagnose a phosphofructokinase deficiency, which may lead to anemia in the dog.

HISTORY AND BACKGROUNDThe Cocker Spaniel is a very lovable and pleasing creature, which comes in two distinct breeds: the English and the American Cocker Spaniels. According to experts, the American breed originated from a large influx of English Cocker Spaniels, which were brought to America during the latter half of the 17th century (possibly on the Mayflower ship).

The first American Cocker Spaniel was registered in the 1880s and went by the name of Obo II. There is evidence which points to a possible cross-breed of English Cockers with smaller toy spaniels to achieve the American version. For U.S. hunters in search of a smaller-sized dog with the ability to hunt quails and other small bird game, the American Cocker Spaniel was a perfect fit.

The American Kennel Club recognized the English Cocker Spaniel as separate breed from its American counterpart in 1946, ending a long discussion of which dog type could bear the Cocker Spaniel title. The English Kennel Club of England followed suit in 1968 and also acknowledged the distinction between both breeds. Whether it is referred to as the American Cocker Spaniel or Cocker Spaniel, this dog breed has become a mainstay in the U.S. and is beloved for its warm temperament and distinctive look.

The Jack Russell Terrier is a small terrier that is commonly confused with the Parson Russell Terrier. The Parson Russell Terrier is shorter-bodied and longer-legged, while the Jack Russell Terrier is longer-bodied and shorter-legged. It is not yet an officially recognized breed by the AKC. The UKC recognized both the Jack and Parson under the breed Russell Terriers until 2009, and the NKC recognizes the Jack but not the Parson.

PHYSICAL CHARACTERISTICS
The Jack Russell is a small, agile, hunting terrier. Its body is slightly longer than its height. It stands at approximately 10 to 15 inches, with a compact body and short tail. The chest is the Jack Russell’s most important feature. It must be shallow and narrow, with the front legs not too far apart, giving it an athletic rather than a heavy chested look. Jack Russells were bred to hunt the red fox; accordingly, their stature had to be equipped to enter and work in the small burrows that foxes escaped into.

The Jack Russell's coat can be wiry or smooth, but is always a dense double coat. Its coloring is generally white, or white with tan, brown or black markings. Jack Russells weigh in at approximately 14 to 18 pounds. The head is broad and flat, with a powerful jaw containing a scissor bite, and straight, slightly large teeth. Jack Russells move with a jaunty, confident gait that portrays the character of the breed.

PERSONALITY AND TEMPERAMENT
Jack Russell Terriers are characteristically high energy and very driven. Even though they are small in size, Jack Russells are not recommended for apartment dwellers due to their need for exercise and stimulation. They can get restless and destructive if not given enough stimulation. Overall though, they are a merry, devoted breed.

They are also very intelligent, athletic, fearless, and vocal dogs. Obedience training is highly advised as they have a tendency to be stubborn and aggressive at times. This, combined with their loud and energetic nature, makes them great guard dogs, however.

CARE
The biggest care concern with Jack Russells is making sure they get enough exercise. Outside of that, caring for them is relatively simple. Jack Russells only need to be bathed when necessary due to their short coat. Regular combing and brushing is recommended with a firm bristle brush.

To get a Jack Russell Terrier show-worthy, its coat must be stripped rather than clipped. This creates a shorter and smoother coat that is water and bramble resistant, unlike clipped coats.

HEALTH
Common health issues include inherited eye diseases and deafness. Legg Perthes is a disease of the hip joints that can occur most commonly in smaller breed dogs, the Jack Rusell included. They are also prone to dislocation of the knee caps.

Jack Russells are well known for living long and healthy lives, as breeders have protected the gene pool, preventing direct in-line breeding. Given proper care, life expectancy averages about 15 years, possibly even longer. The common health issues associated with Jack Russells are generally due to recessive genes of certain lines being bred.

HISTORY AND BACKGROUND
Reverend John Russell was a parson with a passion for fox hunting back in the 19th century. He developed a strain of fox hunting terriers from the now extinct English White Terrier, a breed that was bred to be white in color so that they could be distinguished from the quarry they were pursuing. This breed line eventually broke off into the Parson Russell Terrier and the Jack Russell Terrier.

Following World War II the need for hunting dogs began to decline drastically, and with it, the Jack Russell Terrier numbers. At that point, the breed increasingly was kept primarily as family and companion dogs.

The Jack Russell Terrier Club of America was formed in 1976 by one of the first Jack Russell Terrier breeders in the U.S., Ailsa Crawford. In the late 1990’s the AKC moved to recognize the Jack Russell as an official breed, but the Jack Russell Terrier Club of America opposed this move as they wished to keep the Jack Russell's working characteristics intact. In show, Jack Russell Terriers are not judged for their worthy physical characteristics the way non-working breeds are, but rather for the characteristics that make them excellent work companions. They lose points for exaggerations or faults that interfere with their ability to work.

The Miniature Schnauzer is a small terrier originally bred in Germany in the 19th century. Its appearance is distinguished by its "small beard." Known for being less aggressive than the typical terrier, Miniature Schnauzers are lovable members of many families today.

PHYSICAL CHARACTERISTICS
The Miniature Schnauzer has a double coat comprising of a close undercoat and a wiry, hard outer coat, which is longer around the eyebrows, legs, and muzzle. The abundant facial "furnishings" compliment its keen expression. The Miniature Schnauzer, with an almost square proportioned and robust body, has a sturdy build. As it was developed to catch rats, it is tough and quick, with a far-reaching stride.

PERSONALITY AND TEMPERAMENT
The companionable, playful, spunky, curious, and alert Miniature Schnauzer is a well-mannered and gentle house dog that loves to be surrounded by engaging activities. It is less aggressive towards dogs than many terriers, and less dominating than other larger Schnauzers. And although it is generally submissive, it can be stubborn or sly. Some Miniatures occasionally have a tendency to bark a lot, but all enjoy the company of children.

CARE
The Miniature Schnauzer's wire coat requires combing every week, plus shaping and scissoring. Stripping is good for show dogs, while clipping (or styling) is sufficient enough for pets, as it softens the texture of the coat. The exercise requirements of the energetic Miniature Schnauzer can be met with a moderate on leash walk or a playful game in the garden. And although the dog is capable of living outdoors in temperate or warm climates, its emotionally needs are best met with a cozy "dog area" indoors with its family.

HEALTH
The Miniature Schnauzer, with a lifespan of 12 to 14 years, sometimes suffers from health problems like mycobacterium avium infection, cataract and retinal dysplasia. Other major health issues that may affect it are urolithiasis and progressive retinal atrophy (PRA), while some minor health problems include von Willebrand's disease (vWD), myotonia congenita, Schnauzer comedo syndrome, and allergies. A veterinarian may run DNA or eye exams to identify some of these issues.

HISTORY AND BACKGROUND
Developed in Germany in the late 19th century, the Miniature Schnauzer was originally bred as a small farm dog to keep the rats and vermin away. It was not only the most popular Schnauzer, but the tiniest of its class, and touted to be the only terrier that did not originate from the European Isle stock. It is also believed the Miniature Schnauzer was derived from crossbreeding Affenpinschers and Poodles with small Standard Schnauzers. Incidentally, the name "Schnauzer" comes from an eponymous show dog exhibited in Germany in 1879; translated from German, the word schnauzer means "small beard."

In Germany, the Miniature Schnauzer was displayed as a distinct breed from the Standard Schnauzer in the late 1890s. However, it was not until 1933, that the American Kennel Club grouped Miniature and the Standard into separate breeds. In the United States, the Miniature is the one and only Schnauzer under the Terrier Group. In England, this breed became part of Schnauzers under the Utility Group.

The Miniature Schnauzer was introduced to the United States much later than the Standard and Giant Schnauzers, but after World War II, the Mini became more popular than the other Schnauzers, eventually becoming the third most popular breed in the U.S. This alert and smart-looking family pet and show dog remains a constant favorite among dog lovers.

The Norwich Terrier is one of the smallest working terriers. It’s a spirited, stocky breed, with prick ears and an almost weatherproof coat. Resembling the Norfolk Terrier, the Norwich Terrier has the true spirit of a terrier and is always ready for excitement and adventure: it can work in a pack and moves with great power.

PHYSICAL CHARACTERISTICS
The double coat of the Norwich is comprised of a straight, hard, and wiry outer coat, which fits close to the body and is red, wheaten, black, or tan in color. The hair around its mane, meanwhile, is thick, offering the dog protection.

The expression of the Norwich Terrier is slightly foxy in nature. In fact, this square-proportioned, stocky, sturdy, and spirited dog is among the smallest working terriers. Its small size help it follow fox or vermin through narrow passages. And its large teeth help it dispatch its quarry effectively. The tail is long enough to hold on firmly, so that it is not pulled from a hole.

PERSONALITY AND TEMPERAMENT
As the Norwich is a good hunter, it may chase small animals. This amusing, lively, and independent dog is also a good companion, though challenging at times. It is perfect for those who have a great sense of humor and adventure.

CARE
The Norwich Terrier functions better as a house dog with access to the yard, but it can also live outdoors during daytime in temperate or warm climates. Its wiry coat requires occasional weekly combing, and stripping of dead hair three or four times a year.

The Norwich is fond of exploring and running, but off-leash forays should be done only in secure areas. It is also recommended that you allow the dog to run short distances and stretch out its legs every day.

HEALTH
The Norwich Terrier, which has an average lifespan of 13 to 15 years, may suffer from patellar luxation, cataract, cheyletiella mites, and deafness. It is also prone to minor health problems such as allergies and seizures, and major issues like canine hip dysplasia (CHD). To identify some of these issues, a veterinarian may recommend hip and knee tests for this breed of dog.

HISTORY AND BACKGROUND
In England, short-legged ratters have always been valued. However, during the 19th century, smaller breeds like the Norfolk and Norwich Terriers (known as CanTabs and Trumpington Terriers at the time) began to emerge; it was even popular for students of Cambridge University to own one of the small ratters.

Near the turn of the 20th century, a Trumpington Terrier named Rags emerged from a stable near Norwich as the sire to numerous dogs, and is often considered the main ancestor to the modern Norwich Terrier.

One of his descendants was introduced to the United States in 1914; the breed became popular in America quickly thereafter. Even today, people refer to the Norwich as "Jones" Terrier, a tribute to the original owner of the first American Norwich Terrier.

In 1936, the American Kennel Club formally recognized the breed. At first the breed included both the drop and prick-eared variety; however, in 1979 the Norfolk Terrier only became associated with the dropped-eared strain.

Even though the Norfolk terrier does not possess the flashing speed of other long-legged terriers, it is a good competitor to have in a show ring. The Norfolk Terrier is also a loyal and sensitive companion to have.

The Rhodesian Ridgeback is a large, muscular hunting dog. Originally bred by European Boers for lion-hunting, protection, and companionship, it is also known as the African Lion Hound.

PHYSICAL CHARACTERISTICS
The Rhodesian Ridgeback's distinctive feature is its well-defined ridge, which begins at the shoulders, with two identical whorls and tapers to a protrusion of the hipbones.

The Ridgeback has a slightly long body and combines attributes of endurance, speed, and power. Its athletic build and long, efficient strides enables it to control injured game easily. The dog's short and shiny wheaten coat, meanwhile, helps the dog adapt to hot climates.

PERSONALITY AND TEMPERAMENT
Although reserved with strangers, the Ridgeback mixes well with other dogs and is friendly with cats it has grown up with.

Among hounds, this breed is revered for its versatility as a faithful guardian and keen hunter. The dog is extremely protective of its human family and gentle with kids; however, it may be too unrestrained for small children. Be aware that some male Ridgebacks are known to be too domineering and strong-willed, even fighting other dogs into submission.

CARE
As a house pet, it is a wonderful family member. The Ridgeback prefers to sleep indoors, spending its days both out in the yard and indoors. The Ridgeback is a good hiking and jogging companion. Fond of running, the Ridgeback needs physical and mental exercise daily, to prevent boredom setting in. Coat care for the dog is minimal, requiring occasional brushing to get rid of dead hair.

HEALTH
The Rhodesian Ridgeback, which has an average lifespan of 10 to 12 years, does not suffer from any serious health conditions. However, it may be prone to minor issues such as elbow dysplasia, canine hip dysplasia (CHD), and hypothyroidism. Deafness and dermoid sinus are also occasionally seen in the breed. To identify some of these issues, a veterinarian may recommend hip, thyroid, elbow, and dermoid sinus tests for the dog.

HISTORY AND BACKGROUND
Noted as a popular hound today for its qualities of hunting, protecting, and companionship, the Rhodesian Ridgeback dates back to the 16th and 17th centuries, when European Boers came to South Africa. Along with them, they brought breeds such as the Great Dane, Mastiff, Staghound, Bloodhound, Pointer, Greyhound, and others. The settlers required a dog that could tolerate extreme temperatures, a limited supply of water, and even withstand rough bushes, while functioning as a hunting and guard dog.

They eventually crossed Hottentot tribal and native hunting breeds with European breeds in order to produce a desirable dog. This new breed hunted by using scent and sight and was also a loyal protector of the family.

Many of these dogs were transported to Rhodesia in the 1870s to hunt lions and track them. These successful "lion dogs" became very popular, and their distinctive ridge became their symbol of quality.

There were so many varieties of ridged "Lion Dogs" in Rhodesia by the 1920s, that a meeting was conducted to decide the best qualities of the breed and form a breed standard.

In the 1930s, the breed appeared in England and soon thereafter in the United States. However, it took nearly 20 years for the breed to strike the fancy of dog lovers. The Rhodesian Ridgeback was officially recognized as a sighthound in the 1980s, eventually eligible to participate in sighthound field trials.