Dog Breeds

Dog breeds were originally developed for specific types of work, from herding livestock and retrieving game to guarding homes and providing companionship. These histories still influence how many dogs behave today.

This directory explores breeds through behaviour, temperament, and everyday life with dogs. Each profile focuses on understanding the instincts and tendencies that have shaped the breed over time.

Breed descriptions can provide helpful context, but every dog remains an individual shaped by genetics, upbringing, and environment.

Explore breeds through history and behaviour

Use the filters below to browse breeds by group, size, energy, grooming, shedding, sensitivity, and trainability style.

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Small tan Chihuahua standing on a country path beside a Chihuahua puppy sitting in grass with wildflowers.

Chihuahua

Chihuahuas are known for their big personalities packed into a tiny frame. They often form strong bonds with their owners, making them loyal companions who enjoy being involved in daily activities. Despite their size, they can be quite spirited and alert, often acting as little guardians of their home.

  • Size: Toy
  • Energy: Moderate to high
Chinese Crested hairless adult dog standing beside a hairless puppy in a traditional garden courtyard, showing bare skin with long crest hair, socks on the feet, and a plume tail.

Chinese Crested

Living with a Chinese Crested can feel like having a lively, affectionate companion who thrives on human interaction. Known for their unique appearance, they often bring joy and amusement to their families with their playful antics. Despite their small size, they have a big personality and a strong desire to be part of the family activities.

  • Size: Small
  • Energy: Moderate
Adult Chinese Shar-Pei lying on grass beside a wrinkled Shar-Pei puppy.

Chinese Shar-Pei

Living with a Chinese Shar-Pei is like having a steadfast and independent companion who quietly observes the world around them. Known for their distinctive wrinkles and blue-black tongue, they often exhibit a calm presence, preferring to engage on their own terms. While they may not be overly demonstrative, their loyalty to their family is evident in their protective nature and thoughtful companionship.

  • Size: Medium
  • Energy: Moderate
Adult Chinook dog with a Chinook puppy standing on a rocky forest trail in the mountains of New Hampshire.

Chinook

Living with a Chinook often feels like having a steadfast companion who is both gentle and eager to join in on family activities. Their balanced nature means they can be quite adaptable, enjoying both outdoor adventures and quiet evenings at home. Owners frequently appreciate their calm presence and willingness to engage, making them a cherished part of the household.

  • Size: Large
  • Energy: Moderate to high
Adult Chiweenie standing beside a Chiweenie puppy on a contemporary stone garden path, showcasing the breed's elongated body, chocolate and tan colouring, alert ears and distinctive Chihuahua–Dachshund characteristics.

Chiweenie

Living with a Chiweenie often means sharing your space with a spirited and affectionate companion. These small dogs tend to form strong bonds with their families, often seeking out attention and affection. Their curious nature and lively presence can bring a lot of joy to everyday life, making them delightful housemates for those who appreciate a dog with a big personality in a small package.

  • Size: Small
  • Energy: Moderate
Adult Chow Chow sitting beside a Chow Chow puppy on grass in a garden.

Chow Chow

Living with a Chow Chow often feels like sharing your home with a dignified and independent companion. They carry themselves with a certain aloofness, yet they form strong bonds with their families, showing affection in their own reserved way. Their unique appearance and calm presence make them a distinctive addition to any household.

  • Size: Medium
  • Energy: Low
Adult Chug dog and Chug puppy sitting together on a modern townhouse patio with wooden decking, outdoor furniture, and soft natural daylight.

Chug

Living with a Chug can be a delightful experience. These small mixed breeds often bring a unique blend of charm and spunk to a household. Many owners find that their Chug is both affectionate and spirited, enjoying moments of play as much as quiet cuddles. Their presence is often felt as they follow family members around the house, eager to be part of the action.

  • Size: Small
  • Energy: Moderate
Adult Cirneco dell'Etna standing beside a Cirneco dell'Etna puppy on the volcanic slopes of Mount Etna in Sicily, showing the breed's large upright ears, athletic build and chestnut coat.

Cirneco Dell’Etna

Living with a Cirneco Dell'Etna is like having a curious and agile companion by your side. Their independent nature often surprises new owners, as they balance affection with a desire to explore. Known for their keen senses and alertness, they bring a unique presence to any household, always ready for the next adventure or a quiet moment of companionship.

  • Size: Medium
  • Energy: Moderate to high
Adult white Clumber Spaniel standing beside a young puppy on a woodland path.

Clumber Spaniel

Living with a Clumber Spaniel often means sharing your space with a dog that is both laid-back and affectionate. They tend to enjoy being part of family activities, whether that means lounging on the couch or joining a leisurely walk. Their gentle nature and steady temperament make them a comforting presence in many homes.

  • Size: Large
  • Energy: Moderate
Adult Cockalier dog sitting beside a Cockalier puppy on a stone garden path, both facing forward with chestnut and white coats in a soft English garden setting.

Cockalier

Living with a Cockalier often means sharing your home with a dog that thrives on companionship. Their affectionate nature and eagerness to please make them a delightful presence, always ready to join in on family activities or snuggle up for some quiet time. They bring a blend of energy and sensitivity, creating a unique balance that many owners find endearing.

  • Size: Small
  • Energy: Moderate to high
Apricot Cockapoo standing on a rug next to a Cockapoo puppy in a cosy living room, both with curly coats and cheerful, open-mouthed expressions.

Cockapoo

Living with a Cockapoo often means sharing your home with a lively, affectionate companion. Their engaging personality and eagerness to be part of family activities make them a joy to have around. Many owners appreciate their adaptability, as Cockapoos can fit into a variety of lifestyles, bringing warmth and a touch of fun to everyday life.

  • Size: Medium
  • Energy: Moderate to high
Adult black Cocker Spaniel standing in a meadow with a golden Cocker Spaniel puppy.

Cocker Spaniel

Living with a Cocker Spaniel often means embracing a lively and affectionate companion. They are known for their joyful nature and eagerness to be part of family activities. With their expressive eyes and wagging tails, they frequently bring a sense of warmth and companionship to their homes.

  • Size: Medium
  • Energy: Moderate to high
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