The next five top breeds on our list for 2018 include Yorkshire terriers, Rottweilers, Boxers, Beagles, and French Bulldogs.
The saying “Big things come in small packages” is perfectly apropos when it comes the the Yorkshire Terrier. Although technically a member of the Toy Group, the Yorkshire Terrier – or “Yorkie”, as it has come to be affectionately dubbed – was originally bred to tame rat infestations in clothing mills in the English county that bears its name. Although they have since left their working class roots behind, Yorkies are still a very sprightly breed and enjoy a daily walk to match their moderate activity level.
Although they are not highly energetic, Yorkies are certainly affectionate despite their proclivity for independence. They do require supervision when interacting with children and other dogs. A daily brushing is always prefered to help maintain their coat, but they do shed infrequently. It should also be noted that Yorkies do require a certain level of vigilance when it comes to their oral hygiene and overall health, but a long average lifespan of up to 15 years means they can be lasting companions.
For those who want an affectionate, smaller breed without the high energy but don’t mind a certain level of independence, the Yorkshire Terrier might just be the perfect fit!
Find more info on the Yorkie here!
The Rottweiler is truly a member of the Working Group of breeds. A powerful build, coupled with an intelligent mind and a predisposition for work make the Rottweiler the perfect candidate for a variety of jobs, whether it be as a herder, police dog, service or therapy dog, or even an athletic competitor. But perhaps most importantly, the Rottweiler will serve as a devoted companion and protector for its human. This shows through their “wait-and-see attitude” when confronted with changing situations, according to the American Kennel Club.
It is important to note that Rottweilers require regular, solid workouts on a daily basis, particularly those that include work with their human. Rottweiler’s generally require supervision when interacting with children and other dogs, but they do respond well to obedience training. Rottweilers only shed seasonally and require just occasional grooming.
Rottweilers are an interesting breed that some may not consider family dogs. They are certainly more reserved around strangers, but they are always fiercely affectionate and loyal with their family. It is important to remember the working class origins of this breed, and see if your lifestyle matches!
For more info, click here!
Just as their name implies, Boxers are athletes; a combination of power, agility, and grace. Their bodies, when well-conditioned, reflect their athletic nature through a combination of muscle, sinew, and a tight-fitting coat. But don’t overthink this one, Boxers aren’t nearly as serious as professional boxers. Rather, Boxers are a fun-loving breed who exhibit equal parts intelligence and loyalty. As very active dogs, they love exercise that stimulates the mental and physical senses, but that is also playful and light-hearted.
These clownish dogs do well with active families, and are generally good with kids (although they do require some supervision when it comes to interacting with other dogs). Boxers do tend to have some health problems that can be more serious, at times, including hip and elbow dysplasia and degenerative myelopathy; however, these health concerns do not deter dog-lovers from this playful breed (they have been an AKC top 10-breed for several years)!
At the end of the day, Boxers thrive in an active and fun-loving environment. To learn even more, visit here!
Bred to be exceedingly gifted pack-hunting dogs, Beagles have grown to be happy-go-lucky, humorous dogs that are also especially cute! The merry Beagle loves to interact with other dogs and people, due to their hunting origins (so they’re always a welcome sight at the dog park!). They are also very curious and love to learn and explore whenever possible. They do require regular exercise to let off steam, but Beagles are generally known to be solid and sturdy dogs that are, for the most part, easy to care for and lifelong companions.
Beagles only shed seasonally, but they do require weekly grooming to keep their coats clean and healthy. It should be noted that Beagles do enjoy a good bark (once again, due to their long-standing hunting traditions), so be prepared for a certain level of noise. But, on the whole, Beagles have been popular for years as a smaller, family dog that is full of energy, curiosity, and love!
For more info, click here!
French Bulldogs are as distinctive in their personalities as they are in their features. Their smushed, wrinkly face and bat-like ears make for an irresistible and lovable face. Although they are not very active and not too athletic, either, they are an affectionate and playful breed that is always eager to please and makes for an incredibly loyal breed.
French Bulldogs can best be described as generally low maintenance. They only require occasional grooming and shed seasonally. A brisk walk is all they need to stay in shape, and they are considered mostly a quiet breed when it comes to barking. Although they do require some patience and persistence during training, French Bulldogs are very intelligent and adaptive.
French Bulldogs – while completely irresistible – are best suited for single-pet families or those with younger children. Their low maintenance also makes them ideal for busier people. For further reading, click here!