Young dogs may well damage your precious furnishings if you don’t provide them with safe things to chew, like a cardboard box or some chew toys – which have the added benefit of improving mouth health and teeth strength. (Erkki Alvenmod)
(Milles Away)
Siberian Husky (Nata Sdobnikova)
Trips to the vet can be daunting experiences for dog and owner alike. (Byelikova Oksana)
Let your puppy wander about with the lead on to get him used to it but watch him carefully in case the lead gets caught up on something. (Eldad Carin)
To get your puppy used to traffic and road walking, carry him in your arms for a day or two before walking on the pavement. (Christian Mueller)
Do not play tug of war with a soft toy but use a dedicated tug toy (as here) – or you will be training your puppy to be destructive and possessive. (Anna Hoychuk)
Most young dogs enjoy playing ‘fetch’ with a ball or other toy. It allows them to run freely and have some fun. (Ksenia Raykova)
This West Highland White Terrier puppy is meeting some older dogs. Most adult dogs will not be aggressive to young puppies. (Zuzule)
(It’s Me Or the Dog © HarperCollins/ © Mark Read)
Other Popular Breeds
Useful Addresses
In the following pages you will find detailed information on the thirty most popular dog breeds plus brief descriptions of some other well-loved breeds that make good family pets. The way in which dogs are classified varies, and different countries and their canine governing bodies still use different systems. However, they are usually classified according to the type of work they perform.
Gundog Group
These Gundogs were specifically bred to work at finding, flushing out and retrieving gamebirds.
Hound Group
These speedy dogs were developed to hunt, chase and kill prey. They are divided into scenthounds and sighthounds for locating prey.
Working Group
These dogs have been bred over the centuries to perform specific tasks, including guarding, rescue work and police work.
Terrier Group
These dogs were bred to hunt and dig out vermin and small game. Most terriers evolved in the British Isles and they all adore digging.
Toy Group
These miniature dogs were first developed and bred to become companions and pets. Their size makes them suitable for city life.
Utility Group
This group of popular pet dogs contains all the breeds that do not fit easily into the other categories. Dogs in this group make good pets.
Pastoral Group
These ancient dogs have been used to protect livestock for centuries. They tend to be highly intelligent but need a lot of exercise.
Golden Retriever from the Gundog group. (It’s Me Or the Dog © HarperCollins/ © Mark Read)
Cocker Spaniel
(© Jean Michel Labat)
Friendly and sociable and happy-go-lucky, the Cocker makes a lovely family pet. A hallmark of this breed is its happiness when working. Indeed, the Cocker’s enthusiasm knows no
