10 Funny-looking Dogs that will Make Your Day

So tired with the day's work... Then go check out these funny looking dogs that will complete your day.

1. The Smiley Dog

Isn't he adorable flashing his cute smile.

2. The Classy Dog

Check out the wild and scruffy big ears of this small brown dog who looks like he could do with some good brushing and combing for his coat.

3. The Stylish Dog

The retro style rounded shades with narrow metal handles looks really cool on this stylish dog.

4. I Believe I can Fly

Check out this funny dog picture in which this small white poodle enjoys a high jump in the bright sun.

5. Scared to the Max

Look at the reaction of the small dog seeing a big one for the first time.

6. The Marathon Runner

Nothing to sniff on, so to kill time, this cutie joins the marathon.

7. The Lover Boy

Check out the absolutely macho look this handsome golden dog gives as he awaits his girlfriend to pass by.

8. The Facebook Dog

This handsome pug is definitely fond off Facebook apps.

9. The Bigear

With long ears stretching out like giant radars it is quite possible to look so sad.

10. The Ultimate Guard Dog

Enter at your own risk, thieves will really think twice before entering this house.

10 Most Popular Dog Breeds in the Philippines

There are no exact criteria in selecting the Top 10 Dog Breeds Most Favored by Pinoys Today. It's a matter of perspective. Several factors are considered but at the end of the day - it all boils down to what the home needs in a given situation. Find out who made the list and learn some facts about them as well.

10. Beagle

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If you’re looking for a mild-mannered companion for kids and adults alike, then the Beagle is the perfect dog for you. The Beagle is a happy, inquisitive, short-haired hound who makes a great family companion, an eager hunter in the field — or both! Their noses guide them through life, and they're never happier than when following an interesting scent. So watch out for those trash. though. That inquisitive nose can sure spread mischief round the house.

Resembling a miniature Foxhound, the Beagle are merry and fun loving, but being hounds, they can also be stubborn and require patient, creative training techniques. Because of its playful nature, firm training is required.

Still, many Pinoys have found comfort in their friendly nature because this little wonder is loving, sweet and gentle. Eager and happy to see everyone, greeting them with a wagging tail.

9. Poodle

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Beautiful, sophisticated, and intelligent, the Poodle stands out in the crowd. Poodles are affectionate family dog and make very good watchdogs for their size. Showing poise, grace and intelligence, many have found this impressive dog to be a very trainable dog. However, they need a regular daily morning walk for without the proper type and amount of exercise they may be high-strung and timid.

8. Pug

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'Big dog in a little body', that's how dog breeders described the pug. Square-proportioned, compact and of a cobby build, the pug is a large dog in a little space. This breed is a good choice for happy-go-lucky masters. For what reason? Pugs are known as the clowns of the canine world because they are comical and like to show off.

These playful dogs are also lovers - love to be the center of attention, and are heartsick if ignored. Pug thrives on human companionship! Pugs are intelligent, loyal, amiable, and affectionate with its family. Pugs seldom get into real mischief. Adults spend much of the day sleeping. Just one thing to remember, it bores easily without variety in its training.

7. Golden Retriever

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Smart, good-natured, and eager to please, the Golden Retriever excels as a family companion and working dog. And with its wavy blond fur, an amiable nature and playful personality, it is easy to understand why this charming dog is a fave for dog-lovers. Not only is it easy to train, the golden retriever has been known for its intelligence. And like other intelligent breeds, it needs to have a job to do, such as retrieving balls, carrying items in its mouth, or simply waking up family members. You should also remember that a golden retriever is definitely not a watchdog.

6. Dalmatian

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With its super-friendly nature, regal carriage and unique spots, you’ll find Dalmatians hard to resist. But this breed is definitely not for everyone. A Dalmatian requires an active owner who can provide plenty of training, socialization, and opportunities for hearty exercise. A Dalmatian must have adequate daily exercise and its high energy level can be exhausting to live with. One thing is sure - Dalmation he will be a great addition to your family given the right combination of love, discipline and training.

5. Shih Tzu

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The descendant of regal dogs of China, the Shih Tzu makes a loyal and lively friend. Shih Tzus 'little lion' may give poodles a run for their money when it comes to the well-dressed department. All those beautiful conflagration of hair is sure to wow your guests and bring your household more finesse than otherwise possible. Just like the poodle breed, you’d need to put extra effort in keeping this breed well-groomed. Don’t worry these dogs have been known to be very warm and friendly. Just don’t forget to keep them exercised so they can let all their energies out.

4. Chihuahua

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Meet the world's smallest dog. The Chihuahua is one dog breed many Pinoy love to have at home. Chihuahuas are loyal, entertaining, and affectionate. They love nothing more than being with his family. Also, Chihuahuas are intelligent and fast learners. It's important to remember to socialize your Chihuahua to children, adults, and other animals.

With its big eyes, big ears, and bigger-than-life attitude, the Chihuahua is the epitome of cocky canine in a petite package. This pint-sized pet is a curious explorer and fears nothing, which makes them good watchdogs.

3. German Shepherd

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Amazingly versatile, highly-intelligent and protective, the German Shepherd Dog has won Pinoy hearts a thousand times. Added to that, GSDs are courageous, alert and fearless. They will not think twice about giving their lives for their masters. Truly a guard dog.

On the sober side, GSDs are obedient, confident, clever and eager to learn. German Shepherds are cheerful, loyal, and love to be close to their families. They can be wary of strangers, but only bark when they feel it is necessary. This is a high-energy dog who needs a lot of activity and exercise. It is recommended to start training the dog at an early age with a firm and loving hand.

2. Doberman

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Noble and athletic, the Doberman Pinscher is a courageous guardian. Like a champion boxer, the Doberman is compactly-built, muscular, agile and athletic. Add intelligence, loyalty, gentleness to the mix and you have a courageous guard dog as well as a beloved family companion. These are the reasons why Dobermans are the most revered and most prized dog in our country. In spite of his positive qualities, the Dobie isn't the right breed for everyone. This able defender is huge at 30 – 40 kg (66 - 88 pounds) , and he's extremely active, both physically and mentally. He needs a lot of exercise.

1. Labrador Retriever

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Black Lab, yellow Lab, Silver Lab, Chocolate Lab — take your pick. The Labrador Retriever has won the hearts of millions of Filipinos the world over. The intelligent, muscular and athletic Labrador Retrievers have proven their usefulness and versatility - from fisherman's companion, to retriever for hunters, to show dog, to rescue dog, to therapy dog and to modern working dog. One role has remained constant: a friendly companion.

There's one dog job that Labs are hopeless at: watchdog. Nevertheless, the loyal, loving, and affectionate Labs are a symbol of warmth and friendship - making a great family dog.

Just don’t forget to harness its energy by exercise and play.

10 Most Funny Looking Dog Breeds

Dogs come in sizes and looks... but these 10 dog breeds are simply funny-looking ones. Check them out!

1. Puli

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Look at those dreadlocks. Am I seeing a Jamaican moving mop? Or this dog simply imitating Bob Marley's signature dreadlocks? One thing is sure, this funny looking dog breed hails from Hungary.

The Puli is famous for its long, corded coat whose tight curls make it virtually water resistant. They’re energetic, intelligent and loyal. Definitely, these usually black dogs be the center of attention in your home.

2. Chinese Crested

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Chinese crested usually comes out the winner in the yearly "Most Ugly Dog" contest. But to fair, they ain't ugly at all, just exotic looking dog breed. Contrary to popular belief, Chinese Crested originated from Africa and not in China.

The breed comes in two types: with fur (Powder Puff) and the (Hairless), with silky hair on the head (the crest), tail (plume), and feet (socks).

He's a beauty - elegant and graceful and full of surprises. This dog is, amazingly, incredibly tolerant of heat! A Chinese Crested can lie in 100-degree sun for hours - no need to wear sun block or moisturizing lotion to protect its skin.

3. Bedlington Terrier

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Is this beauty disguising as a lamb just to get fair treatment from his master? Nope, this really is a funny looking dog! A native of Bedlington, England, this lamblike dog with a wedge-shaped head, triangular eyes, and wooly hair is wooly hair is perfect for allergy-prone dog owners.

4. Brussels Griffon

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With its distinct, eye-catching fuzzy beards, the Brussels Griffon is definitely a stunner. Named after its city of origin: Brussels, Belgium, this terrier-like Brussels Griffon is a small dog with a big personality! Billed as a dog "full of self-importance," the hilarious looking toy dog is proud, spunky, energetic, and comical. Even with his miniature look, he is a 'bossy' dog - able to dominate other dogs.

5. Bergamasco

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Will somebody calls a hair stylish. This dog needs a hair makeover. The Bergamasco is another mop dog which traces its origin in the Italian Alps near Bergamo. He is a herding dog with the unusual matted coat. The coat may come in gray or silver gray to brown and black. With a funny looking dog like this, herding and guarding sheep and cattle in the Italian Alps is a fun experience.

6. Xoloitzcuintli

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The Xoloitzcuintli or (Xolo for short) is a breed of dog native to Mexico and Central America. Sometimes called the Mexican Hairless, the Xoloitzcuintli or (Xolo for short) is not only funny looking but also a rare breed of dog.

In their native Mexico and Central America, locals believe this dog has special 'healing power'. They believe that the heat given off by their body is a cure for certain ailments.

Prized as both a companion and guard dog, Xolos may come in three sizes: toy, miniature and standard.

7. Neapolitan Mastiff

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With its massive wrinkles and sags, only his master will love this funny looking dog. But don't be deceived by its look, this gentle giant is fearless. His massive size and bestial appearance makes him an ideal guard dog. Just bear with his loud snoring, snuffling, and drooling.

8. Bull Terrier

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This highly unusual looking dog made our list because of its distinctive looks – an 'egg shaped' head and unique triangle-shaped eyes.

Exuberant, playful, mischievous, comical, assertive, stubborn best describes the bull terrier.

9. Komondor

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Another pride of Hungary, the Komondor is acclaimed for its long, white corded coat. What really makes this funny looking canine remarkable is its fur: reaching up to 27 cm in length, the Komondor has the thickest fur in the canine world. That’s one shaggy dog!

Dandie Dinmont Terrier

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To round up our list, the plucky Dandie Dinmont Terrier can certainly bring chuckles. This rare (and quite nearly extinct) dog breed owns an elongated body, short little legs and a peculiar silken "top-knot" of hair on the head.

Adding beauty to this small dog is its large, round, wide-set eyes; a well-defined muzzle and a "scimitar" tail covered with a rather crisp double coat.

5 Key Tips For Finding A Lost Dog

Every dog owner will tell you that their dog is not simply a pet. Their dog is a family member. This is why it can be a truly traumatic time if a family loses their dog. Regardless of how the dog got away, the actions you take immediately following can determine if you get your valued family member back or not.

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Many dog owners today are saved by a microchip. This small chip is implanted in the dog, usually at the same time it is under anesthesia while being spayed or neutered. The chip provides GPS tracking in the case the dog is lost or even stolen.

However, if your dog is not microchipped, all is not lost. There are a handful of steps you can follow, in no particular order, that can help you recover your furry friend.

Search for Your Dog

Immediately after noticing the absence of your dog, you should go out looking for him or her. Get family, friends, and neighbors to help with canvassing the neighborhood. Checking places you think your pet might be is usually not successful. When a dog gets loose, there is not telling where he or she might go.

You should walk and drive around the neighborhood calling for your pet by name. People searching on foot can check down small alleys, walking trails, and parks. If you are in the car and searching for your dog, drive slow, call for pet by name with the windows rolled down, and make frequent stops with the vehicle off to listen.

Searching for your dog at night or at dawn is often the best solution. You have much less exterior activity going on which not only creates less noise for you to try to break through, but it also provides less stimulant for your dog.

Make Posters and Info Cards

After a quick yet thorough search, you should take the time to create posters and informational cards. You should make as many posters as you possibly can, with a very simple statement of “LOST DOG” at the top. This should be easy to read even if the person is driving their car. Describe your dog and then include an image if possible. You should also include your dog’s name and offer a reward, but don’t state how much. Then, obviously, include your own contact information.

In addition to posters, you can create informational index cards to pass around the neighborhood. This too should include your pet’s description, name, along with your own contact information. You can even request that people check their sheds or hidden areas of their yards. Leave the index cards wherever people are going to pick it up. You can deliver it door-to-door, slide it into people’s doors, place them under windshields, or place them in mailboxes.

Place a “Lost” Ad in the Paper

A lot of local newspapers allow pet owners to place “Lost” ads for free. Despite how much you read the paper, you never know who might check that section frequently or who may have information about your dog’s whereabouts but have no idea who to contact. In a lost dog situation, every set of eyes matters.

Enlist the Help of Social Media

Believe it or not, social media has been a huge success in terms of helping dog owners find lost dogs. Pet lovers are quick to share and like pet related posts, and missing pets are no different. These fellow dog owners know the importance of returning a pet home and will have no hesitation in reaching out to their own networks to enlist help.

Again, the more people that are aware of the missing dog, the higher the odds are that the dog gets returned. There is no quicker way to spread the word than through a viral Facebook post.

Contact and Visit Local Vets, Shelters, and Pounds

Finally, you should be contacting local veterinarians, shelters, and pounds. You should even contact vet clinics or emergency vet hospitals outside of your local area. Some good Samaritans pick up strays but may unknowingly bring them further away from their home if they know of a responsible animal hospital.

You should also be contacting local shelters, dogs pounds, kennels, and police. Police can help contact animal control as well as their fellow comrades in blue. Kennels will often take in dogs if one of their employees happens upon a stray. When it comes to dog pounds and shelters, a simple call may not suffice. Unfortunately you can’t always take their word for it when they say that they don’t have a dog that meets your description. You should visit the pounds and shelters daily, personally viewing all of the dogs they have.

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10 Dog Breeds That are Worst Choices for First-time Dog Owners

There's no such thing as a 'bad' just bad training. And while we don’t disagree that a good owner along with proper training and socialization can make a world of difference, we have to admit that some dog breeds are best suited to experienced owners.

Nonetheless, in case you're a newbie and inexperienced dog owner, these dog breeds might not be for you until you have a couple of years of training tack under your belt.

No. 10: Saint Bernard

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The Saint Bernard is a huge and massive dog breed. This gentle giant stands 61 - 70 cm (25.5 - 27.5 inches) and weigh around 50 - 91 kg (110 - 200 pounds). A well-bred Saint Bernard is extremely gentle, calm, friendly, sensible, and very tolerant of children. The breed is slow moving, highly intelligent, extremely loyal and easy to train.

A Saint Bernard is a good choice - If you want a dog who...

• is massive, with a thick furry coat
• is kind and steady-tempered with everyone

However, this lovable giant requires a lot of work. And here's the challenge:

• heavy shedding
• Drools (and drools and drools) after eating and drinking
• A loud contented snorers
• Known to ingest items like socks and dishtowels
• Low tolerance for hot weather
• A good watchdog but an indoor dog as well. So, he takes up a lot of space in your house
• A massive dog who wants to sit on your feet and lean his weight against your leg
• Prone to serious health problems including skin problems, heart problems, and hip dysplasia
• A short lifespan (8-10 years)

No. 9: German Shepherd

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The German Shepherd is a highly intelligent, fun-loving, and loyal family pet. He is energetic, fearless, and known as a natural protector. The breed is well-suited to a wide variety of jobs: a guide dog, a military dog and a drug sniffer. German Shepherds can do almost everything - the ideal choice for many families.

However: German Shepherd is not your breed - If you don't want to deal with...

• Providing regular exercise and grooming
• Providing early and ongoing socialization
• Potential aggression toward other dogs
• Destructiveness when bored
• Constant heavy shedding - 365 days a year
• Prone to serious health problems including hip dysplasia and neurologic issues

No. 8: Australian Cattle Dog

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An Australian Cattle Dog is a robust, medium-sized dog known for its serious endurance. One of the most intelligent breeds, he has a reputation for being stubborn and energetic. This breed is very easy to train and best with a job to do. He is absolutely NOT an apartment dog

An ideal family dog - If you want a dog who...

• Has a short, easy-care coat that comes in striking colors
• Is absolutely loyal and obedient to its master.
• Protective, it makes a vigilant watchdog

An Australian Cattle Dog may not be right for you - If you don't want to deal with....

• Heavy shedding
• Potential for excessive barking, often in a high-pitched voice
• Vigorous exercise requirements
• Destructiveness when bored
• Watchful and suspicious toward strangers
• Aggression toward other animals
• Prone to hip dysplasia and PRA. The merle-colored dogs are prone to deafness.

No. 7: Dalmatian

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The spotted Dalmatian was bred to work as a coach dog, running alongside carriages or horses, alerting coachmen to approaching highwaymen and warding off stray dogs. This breed is an athletic, dependable, high-spirited and playful dog.

A Dalmatian may be right for you - If you want a dog who...

• Is medium to large and built like a sleek athlete
• Is loyal, playful, easy going and very dedicated
• Has a short easy-to-brush coat
• Thrives on vigorous exercise and interactive family activities

A Dalmatian may not be right for you - If you don't want to deal with...

• Constant shedding -- 365 days a year
• Stubbornness, requiring a confident owner who can take charge
• Vigorous exercise requirements
• Aggression when not socialized enough
• Too much barking when left alone too much
• Destructive when bored
• Prone to serious health issues including deafness, skin allergies, and urinary stones

No. 6: Weimaraner

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The Weimaraner is nicknamed “Gray Ghost” for his beautiful gray coat and habit of following his owner closely. The breed is highly intelligent, extremely energetic cheerful and affectionate dog. Though this dog is stubborn, given the proper training he is capable of learning and doing virtually anything.

A Weimaraner may be right for you - If you want a dog who...

• Is odd-looking, with a gray/silver coat and eerie light eyes
• Has a sleek, carefree coat
• Is robust, powerful, brave, alert, protective and loyal - an ideal hunting companion
• Is highly energetic and thrives on vigorous exercise and athletic activities
• Is watchful with strangers so makes a keen watchdog

A Weimaraner may not be the right dog for you - If you don't want to deal with...

• A strong-willed mind of his own, requiring a confident and athletic master who can take charge
• Vigorous exercise requirements
• "Separation anxiety" - when left alone too much
• Aggression toward cats and other small pets
• Reserved with strangers when not socialized enough
• Excessive barking when bored

No. 5: Rottweiler

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The Rottweiler is confident, courageous, protective, trainable, and loyal devoted to its owner and family. This muscular and powerful dog is typically calm, sensible, and serious (though some are happy-go-lucky clowns!) This gentle giant tends to respond quietly and with a wait-and-see attitude to influences in his environment.

A Rottweiler may be right for you - If you want a dog who...

• Is very affectionate to his master and family
• Is large, robust, and powerful
• Is calm, sensible, and confident
• Is handsome and easy to groom
• Makes an intimidating-looking deterrent

A Rottweiler may not be right for you - If you don't want to deal with...

• Vigorous exercise requirements
• A heavy dog who wants to sit on your feet, lie on your lap, and lean his weight against your leg
• Slobbering and drooling (typically large males ) after eating and drinking
• Gassiness (flatulence) that can send you running for cover
• Strong-willed mind of his own, requiring a confident owner who can take charge
• Potential aggression toward dogs with the same sex, cat, and other animals
• Destructiveness when bored

No. 4: Alaskan Malamute

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The Alaskan Malamute is a large, muscular and rugged working dog, best suited to people who love the great outdoors. The breed is intelligent, affectionate and extremely loyal toward its master and family. Alaskan Malamutes are very challenging to train and live with.

An Alaskan Malamute may be right for you - If you want a dog who...

• Is furry, with a wolf-like appearance
• Looks imposing, so make an intimidating protector , yet is usually friendly with everyone
• Loves outdoor activities in cool climates

An Alaskan Malamute may not be right for you - If you don't want to deal with...

• Obedience training
• Very heavy shedding
• Vigorous exercise requirements
• Stubbornness, requiring a confident owner who can take charge
• Destructiveness and howling when bored
• Aggression toward other animals
• Dominant and possessive of their food - children and other animals should not approach an Alaskan Malamute who is eating

No. 3: Chinese Shar-Pei

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The Shar-Pei, with the wrinkled skin, "hippopotamus" head, is an intelligent, calm, dominant, and brave dog. It is active, easy-going playful and very loyal to its master. This highly territorial dog tends to bond with one person and aloof with strangers.

A Chinese Shar-Pei may be right for you - If you want a dog who...

• Has an unusual appearance
• Is medium-sized and sturdily-built
• Has a sober, confident nature
• Is extremely loyal to his master
• Is quiet and mannerly in the home
• Needs only moderate exercise
• Doesn't bark much
• Is naturally clean and easy to housebreak

A Chinese Shar-Pei may not be right for you - If you don't want to deal with...

• A high price tag
• Strong-willed mind of his own, requiring a confident owner who can take charge
• Potential aggression toward people and other animals when not socialized properly
• Snoring and snorting sounds
• Serious (often chronic) health problems

No. 2: Chow Chow

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The Chow Chow with the lion-like ruff is an intelligent, dignified but stubborn dog. This teddy-bear looking dog must be accustomed to people at an early age so that their territorial instincts are properly discriminatory. The breed requires firm authority and training starting at puppyhood, before you get the results you’re looking for.

A Chow Chow may be right for you - If you want a dog who...

• Is medium-sized, very stocky, cute and furry
• Is intelligent, confident, sober
• Is an imposing watchdog
• Needs only moderate exercise
• Is quiet and mannerly in the home
• Is naturally clean and easy to housebreak

A Chow Chow may not be right for you - If you don't want to deal with...

• Heavy shedding
• Regular brushing and combing (Rough variety)
• Stubbornness and requires a confident owner who can take charge
• Aggression toward other animals
• Serious health problems

No. 1: Akita

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There are two types of Akita; the original Japanese Akita or "Akita Inu" breed and an American strain, known as the "Akita" or "American Akita." Males measure 66 - 71 cm (26 - 28 inches) at the shoulder and weigh between 34 - 54 kg (75 - 120 pounds). females are smaller 61 - 66 cm (24 - 26 inches) and weigh 34 - 50 kg (75 - 110 pounds.)

The Akita Inu is alert, handsome, courageous, independent, calm, dignified, and quiet (seldom barks.) The breed is loyal, affectionate, playful, and will protect family members. New dog owners might think this is a desirable pet.

An Akita Inu may be right for you - If you want a dog who...

• Is large, handsome, robust and rugged, with a wolf-like appearance
• Has a thick coat that comes in many colors and patterns
• Looks intimidating so makes an effective watchdog
• Requires minimal daily exercise

An Akita Inu may not be right for you - If you don't want to deal with...

• Stubbornness requiring a confident owner who can take charge
• Possible aggression toward people when not socialized properly
• Aggression toward other dogs and other pets
• Heavy shedding

The 10 Most Loved Water Dogs

These dogs were developed to be effective land and water retrievers and they passed the grade with flying colors! Read on to learn more interesting facts about these 10 most loved water dogs.

Wetterhoun

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The Wetterhoun (translated into English as the Frisian Water Dog) is an excellent water dog developed about 400 years ago in the Dutch province of Friesland. This breed is traditionally used effectively as both a land and water retriever. The Wetterhoun was specially developed to hunt otters and other water fowl. A medium-sized dog, adult males measure this breed measures between 55 – 59 centimeters (21.6-23 inches) at the withers. Average weight between 25 – 35 kilo (55 and 77 pounds).

The Wetterhoun has thick and curly coat except for the head and legs, where the coat is shorter and smoother. Coat colors range from solid black or brown, brown with white or black and white. It has large head, deep set eyes, strong neck and muzzle, rounded chest, and very strong legs. The long tail is rolled alongside the croup.

The breed is intelligent, independent-minded and active. It requires an assertive and firm owner. The dog suits to any kind of environment, but requires lots of exercise and regular walks. It needs little grooming. Bathing should be done only when very necessary. The Wetterhoun can live up to 12 to 13 years.

Barbet

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The Barbet, French word “barbe”, which means beard, is a medium-sized French water dog. It was developed and used as a waterfowl retriever in the marshes, and wetlands in France. The breed measures between 58 to 65 cm (20.5-25.5 inches) tall for males and weighs between 17 to 28 kg (35-60 pounds). A rare breed that generally comes in black, brown or black and white. Grey and white are extremely rare.

It has a long, woolly, and curly coat along with a beard. It has a large, slightly rounded head; round nose, medium-length muzzle, sturdy legs, webbed feet and a hanging or slightly curled tail. It is an intelligent, loyal, joyful and a carefree breed of dog. It is comfortable in a home with a large, fenced yard. It also suits in close quarters, provided it gets regular walks and outdoor exercise. The breed is prone to ear infections and hip dysplasia. The lifespan of the Barbet averages 13–15 years.

American Water Spaniel

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The American Water Spaniel is a rare breed of spaniel developed in Wisconsin, USA during the 19th century as an all-around hunting dog. A medium sized dog that measures between 38–46 cm (15–18 inches) at the withers and weighs around 11–(25–45 pounds).

The breed’s unique double layered coat can come in brown, dark chocolate or variety of brown related shades. Depending on the coat color, the eyes can come in dark brown, yellow-brown or hazel-brown. It has a broad head, squared muzzle, black to brown nose and long, hanging ears.

The American Water Spaniel is active, muscular and hardy. It is an intelligent, friendly, and a very enthusiastic breed of dog. It will suit well in an apartment as long as it gets enough exercise. A light shedder, it needs brushing twice a week. Bathe only when necessary. The life Expectancy is about 12-15 years.

Spanish Water Dog

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The Spanish Water Dog (SWD) is a medium-sized dog developed in Spain. The SWD was primarily used as a water dog and herding sheep. Adult males normally measure 44 to 50 cm (17 to 20 in) at the withers and weigh between 18 to 22 kg (40 to 49 lbs).

A curly coated breed, it comes in a variety of colors: beige, brown, solid black, white, bicolor or tricolor. This breed has a robust body, medium-sized head, short neck, expressive eyes, well-formed teeth, slightly sloping croup, and tail is set at medium height.

This loved water dog is affectionate, loyal, intelligent and diligent. He is versatile and easily trained. The SWD can adapt to almost all environments as long as it gets plenty of exercise and a daily walk. Life Expectancy: About 10-14 years.

Chesapeake Bay Retriever

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The Chesapeake Bay Retriever or “Chessie” was developed in the United States Chesapeake Bay area during the 19th century. An extraordinary swimmer, it was originally bred to hunt waterfowl under adverse conditions, often retrieving several hundred birds per day.

It is a medium to large sized dog where adult males measure 58-66 cm (23-26 inches) at the withers and weigh between 29-36 kg (65-80 pounds). The waterproof double coat feels slightly oily — dense wooly undercoat and harsh outer coat. The coat can come in three basic colors: Brown, sedge and deadgrass. The head is round, yellowish or amber eyes that are very clear, and a medium short nose. The tail is thick at the base and tapers to the end.

The Chesapeake is an intelligent, affectionate, alert, and water-loving breed of dog. It adapts to most living environments: Indoors or outdoors, medium to large yard. However, it needs regular, longer periods of exercise to avoid getting involved in destructive behaviors. The breed is prone to hip dysplasia, cataract, and Type 3 von Willebrand disease. Life expectancy: 10-12 years.

Curly Coated Retriever

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The Curly Coated Retriever (or Curly) is a large, hardy dog originally bred in England as early as 1860. The tallest of the retrievers, it was used primarily for upland bird and waterfowl hunting. The breed measures 63-69 cm (25-27 inches) at the withers and weigh between 29-36 kg (65-80 pounds).

The breed is easily distinguishable by its crisp curls and water-resistant coat that can come in black or liver in color. It has almond-shaped eyes; small, hanging ears, teeth that meet in a scissors bite and curly-haired tail.

This dog is affectionate, loyal, intelligent, confident, loving, and excellent with children. It is also an agile, graceful and elegant dog. This breed is highly-energetic and loves to swim. The Curly will do best living in surroundings with large yard. It needs a lot of exercise and a daily walk. This breed is prone to epilepsy, hip dysplasia, and eye problems. Life Expectancy: About 8-12 years.

Irish Water Spaniel

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A dog of ancient lineage, the modern breed as we know appeared in Ireland in the 1830s and was originally used as land and water hunting dog. The Irish Water Spaniel is that is the largest amongst spaniels. Adult males measure between 51-(20-23 inches) tall and weigh around 20-30kg (45-65) pounds.

The Irish Water Spaniel can easily be recognized by some distinctive features, namely: the smooth “rat tail”, the entirely smooth-coated faced, and its liver-colored, water-repellant double coat consisting of dense curls. The IWS has brown almond-shaped eyes, long ears that are set, large dark-brown nose, straight front legs and hairy webbed feet. The clown of the spaniels, the IWS presents a picture of an intelligent, active, smart, loyal, and a loving family dog.

This breed adapts well in a large environment or with at least an average-sized yard. It needs plenty of daily exercise or long, brisk walk. The coat needs to be trimmed regularly. The IWS is prone to hip dysplasia, ear infections, and eye problems. Life Expectancy: About 10-12 years.

Lagotto Romagnolo

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The Lagotto Romagnolo which means “lake dog from Romagna,” is a small/medium sized dog, that originated from the Romagna sub-region of Italy. The breed was originally developed as a retriever or a hunting dog. Today, the Lagotto is often used to hunt for truffles.

A stocky, hardy muscled dog, the breed normally measures 43–48 cm (17–19 in) at the withers and weighs between 13–16 kg (29-35 lb). The thick, curly coat comes in white, brown or off-white. The big, brown eyes can be dark yellow or dark brown in color. It has a big head and a powerful neck.

The Lagotto is a good pet, and an excellent family dog. It is an affectionate, happy, loyal, gentle, keen, clever, agile and obedient dog. The Lagotto would do okay in an apartment, but needs plenty of exercise. Its dense, curly coat needs regular care. It is prone to hip dysplasia and Benign Juvenile Epilepsy. Life Expectancy: 12 to 14 years.

Standard Poodle

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The Standard Poodle is a medium to large-sized dog that traces its origin in France. Known throughout Western Europe since the 15th century, the breed was originally used as a waterfowl retriever and gun dog. To note, there are three recognized poodle type: The Standard Poodle (over 15 inches at the highest point of the shoulders), The Miniature Poodle is 15 inches or under at the highest point of the shoulders, and The Toy Poodle is 10 inches or under at the highest point of the shoulders.

The Standard Poodle has a squarely built body, a long head and muzzle, a fairly broad, deep chest, and a well proportioned sturdy neck. The skull is moderately rounded, a dark oval-shaped eyes, and curly or wavy coat. It comes in all solid colors such as: apricot, black, blue, brown, cream, gray, or silver. The coat requires grooming and must be clipped every six to eight weeks.

This breed is valued for its intelligence, grace, nobility, cheerfulness and loyalty. This breed can suit fine in an apartment provided it gets sufficient exercise and a daily walk. The standard poodle is prone to cataracts, skin allergies, ear infections, and hip dysplasia. Life Expectancy: About 12-15 or more years.

Labrador Retriever

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The Labrador Retriever (also Labrador, or Lab for short) is a relatively large dog that originated on the island of Newfoundland, Canada in the 16th century. With its signature webbed paws, the Lab was originally used for retrieving fishnets. There are two types of Labradors, the English Labrador (heavier, thicker and blacker in appearance) and the American Labrador (tall and lanky).

The Labrador is a medium-sized dog where males that typically measure 56-61 cm (22-24 inches) tall and weigh between 27-34 kg 960-75 pounds). A most distinguishing feature of the Labrador is its short, dense, weather resistant coat. It has a broad, clean-cut head, strong neck, powerful jaws, thick nose, friendly eyes, and straight tail. Labrador Retrievers come in black, chocolate and yellow.

Typically, Labradors love to play 'catch and retrieve' games and love to swim. Labradors are an intelligent, even-tempered, outgoing, kind, and sociable breed of dog. This breed will adapt well in an environment with average-sized yard. Labrador will be fine in an apartment provided it gets ample exercise and gets a daily walk. Labradors are prone to eye disorders and hip and elbow dysplasia. Its double coat is easy to groom. Bathe or dry shampoo only when necessary. Life expectancy: About 10-12 years.