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Papillon 

The quick, curious Papillon is a toy dog of singular beauty and upbeat athleticism. Despite his refined appearance, the Pap is truly a 'doggy dog' blessed with a hardy constitution.

Papillon fanciers describe their breed as happy, alert, and friendly. A tiny dog, measuring 8 to 11 inches at the shoulder, you can still spot a Papillon a block away thanks to the large, wing-shaped ears that give the breed its name ('papillon' is French for 'butterfly'). Some Paps have erect ears; in others, known as the Phalene type, the ears are down. Paps are dainty and elegant, with a plumed tail, and a long, silky coat of several color combinations, the base color being white. More robust than they look, Paps are little dogs for all seasons and reasons. They thrive in warm or cool climates, in town or country, and are eager to join family fun. They are excellent agility dogs and are consistent winners at the sport's highest levels; less ambitious owners can train them to do all kinds of tricks.

Parson Russell Terrier 

The Parson Russell Terrier is a bold and clever terrier, swift enough to run with horses and fearless enough to dig in and flush a fox from his lair. Independent problem solvers, PRTs can have their own ideas on how to go about things

PRTs stand 12' 15 inches at the shoulder, and weigh 13'¿17 pounds when in peak condition. Their intelligent expression, mostly white coat, and beautifully balanced body give PRTs the adorable looks of a plush toy come to life. But don't be fooled by all that cuteness' PRTs are tough little guys built for England's traditional sport of foxhunting. They're fast enough to follow the hounds and fearless enough to dig into the ground and flush a fox from his lair.

Pekingese 

The Pekingese, a compact toy companion of regal bearing and a distinctive rolling gait, is one of several breeds created for the ruling classes of ancient China. These are sophisticated dogs of undying loyalty and many subtle delights. Pekingese are compact, stocky toy dogs weighing up to 14 pounds.

The coat is longest at the neck and shoulders, giving Pekes their famous 'lion's mane.' Coats come in various reds, from a golden-red to darker shades. The large, short-muzzled head is a wider-than-long 'envelope shaped' rectangle, and the eyes are large, dark, and sparkly. A unique feature of Pekes is their effortless 'rolling' gait. Pekes are charming, confident companions who develop a tight bond with their favorite human. Bred to live in palaces, they can be as serenely independent as the emperors who owned them. (They're 'opinionated,' Peke people say.) Ever alert, they make good watchdogs. Pekes will tolerate kids but won't stand for a lot of roughhousing.

Pembroke Welsh Corgi 

Among the most agreeable of all small housedogs, the Pembroke Welsh Corgi is a strong, athletic, and lively little herder who is affectionate and companionable without being needy. They are one the world's most popular herding breeds. At 10 to 12 inches at the shoulder and 27 to 30 pounds, a well-built male Pembroke presents a big dog in a small package.

Short but powerful legs, muscular thighs, and a deep chest equip him for a hard day's work. Built long and low, Pembrokes are surprisingly quick and agile. They can be red, sable, fawn, and black and tan, with or without white markings. The Pembroke is a bright, sensitive dog who enjoys play with his human family and responds well to training. As herders bred to move cattle, they are fearless and independent. They are vigilant watchdogs, with acute senses and a 'big dog' bark. Families who can meet their bold but kindly Pembroke's need for activity and togetherness will never have a more loyal, loving pet.

Perro de Presa Canario 

The Perro de Presa Canario has a calm appearance and attentive expression. He is especially suited to guarding and traditionally used for herding cattle.

A moderately large-sized molossoid, with a rectilinear profile and black mask, the Perro de Presa Canario is robust and well-proportioned. With a low, deep bark, he has a balanced temperament and is very self-confident. Obedient and docile with family members, he is very devoted to his master, but can be suspicious of strangers. When alert, his stance is firm and vigilant.

Peruvian Inca Orchid 

Agile, smart and swift, the Peruvian Inca Orchid is an elegant sighthound that developed in Peru. The breed can be hairless or coated, and comes in three sizes: small, medium and large. Lively and alert, these dogs can be very good hunters and do well in lure coursing, rally and agility. In the hairless variety, the skin can be of any color. In the coated variety, all colors are accepted including black, brown, gray, pink, tan and white.

These affectionate companion dogs are essentially sighthounds (think Greyhounds and Whippets) and have the same elegant contours of their racy cousins. PIOs come in a range of sizes: the smallest might stand just short of 10 inches; the largest top out at nearly 26 inches. Their distinguishing feature is, of course, hairlessness. The delicate skin can be a solid color or spotted with unpigmented areas. Coated PIOs are in the minority, and the coated and hairless varieties can occur in the same littler. Going by his general conformation, it is an elegant and slim dog, whose aspect expresses speed, strength and harmony without ever appearing coarse. Another particular feature is that the dentition in the hairless variety is nearly always incomplete, associated with the congenital alopecia. Noble and affectionate at home with those close to him, he is at the same time lively and alert. He might be wary of strangers and is a good watch dog. The breed is loyal and protective of his family, but like all dogs, should be supervised around younger children. Caution should also be taken with small pets that may be seen as prey.

Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen 

The low-slung, shaggy-coated Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen is a vivacious French rabbit-hunting hound known for a happy demeanor and durable constitution. Bred to work in a pack, PBGVs enjoy company and do well with other dogs and kids.

A loose translation of the name describes the dog well: Petit (small), Basset (low), Griffon (shaggy), Vendéen (from the Vendée region of France). Put it all together and you have a diminutive hound, standing 13 to 15 inches at the shoulder, with short but strong legs and a rough tousled coat, bred to hunt rabbits on the rugged west coast of France. Other distinctive features of these little extroverts are a proudly carried head, a saber tail, and a loud, houndy bark.

Pharaoh Hound 

The Pharaoh Hound, ancient "Blushing Dog" of Malta, is an elegant but rugged sprinting hound bred to course small game over punishing terrain. Quick and tenacious on scent, these friendly, affectionate hounds settle down nicely at home.

Pharaohs are sleek, aerodynamic coursing hounds bred for high-speed pursuit on rocky terrain. Among their several distinguishing traits are a tight tan coat with matching leather on the nose, ears, and eye rims; ravishing amber eyes; a white-tipped tail; the ability to smile; and a unique way of blushing when happy or excited ('His face glows like a god,' wrote an admirer some 3,000 years ago). These elegant visitors from antiquity possess the speed and graceful movement of all coursers descended from Bronze Age hounds.

Plott Hound 

The Plott, a hound with a curious name and a unique history, is a rugged, relentless hunting dog who is a mellow gentleman at home but fearless, implacable, and bold at work. This eye-catching scenthound is North Carolina's state dog.

The hound with the curious name (we'll get to that) and unique history (we'll get to that, too) is a streamlined, long-tailed, light-footed hunter standing as high as 25 inches at the shoulder. The flashy coat comes in an array of brindle-stripe patterns, from black flecked with gold to flaming orange and russet, in addition to some solid colors. The medium-length ears hang gracefully, and the leather of the nose, lips, and eye rims are black, setting off an inquisitive and confident expression.

Pointer 

The Pointer is the ultimate expression of canine power and grace. The breed's name is its job description: Pointers point game birds, and they have been pointing for centuries. The high-energy Pointer is an excellent runner's companion.

The noble Pointer is the ultimate expression of canine power and grace. Unquestioned aristocrats of the sporting world, Pointers carry themselves proudly and are capable of great speed and agility. The coat comes in several colors, solid or in patterns'¿but as the breed's devotees like to say, a good Pointer can't be a bad color. A large male can stand 28 inches at the shoulder and weigh up to 75 pounds; a small female might weigh as little as 45 pounds and stand 23 inches.

Polish Lowland Sheepdog 

A shaggy-coated herding dog who thrives on exercise and hard work, the Polish Lowland Sheepdog is clever, confident, and a bit stubborn. Compact, alert, and adaptable, they are beloved companions and watchdogs of Polish city dwellers.

First, about that nickname: PON is the acronym for the Polish breed name, Polski Owczarek Nizinny. PONs aren't particularly large dogs, standing no more than 20 inches at the shoulder, but they are muscular and stocky. The rectangular body is covered head to toe with a double coat'¿long and shaggy on top, soft and dense below, and it comes in several colors. The head's profuse coat covers the eyes, which convey the keen, penetrating gaze so common in watchdogs and herders.

Pomeranian 

The tiny Pomeranian, long a favorite of royals and commoners alike, has been called the ideal companion. The glorious coat, smiling, foxy face, and vivacious personality have helped make the Pom one of the world's most popular toy breeds.

The Pomeranian combines a tiny body (no more than seven pounds) and a commanding big-dog demeanor. The abundant double coat, with its frill extending over the chest and shoulders, comes in almost two dozen colors, and various patterns and markings, but is most commonly seen in orange or red. Alert and intelligent, Pomeranians are easily trained and make fine watchdogs and perky pets for families with children old enough to know the difference between a toy dog and a toy. Poms are active but can be exercised with indoor play and short walks, so they are content in both the city and suburbs. They will master tricks and games with ease, though their favorite activity is providing laughs and companionship to their special human.

Poodle (Miniature) 

Whether Standard, Miniature, or Toy, and either black, white, or apricot, the Poodle stands proudly among dogdom's true aristocrats. Beneath the curly, hypoallergenic coat is an elegant athlete and companion for all reasons and seasons.

Poodles come in three size varieties: Standards should be more than 15 inches tall at the shoulder; Miniatures are 15 inches or under; Toys stand no more than 10 inches. All three varieties have the same build and proportions. At dog shows, Poodles are usually seen in the elaborate Continental clip. Most pet owners prefer the simpler Sporting clip, in which the coat is shorn to follow the outline of the squarely built, smoothly muscled body.  Forget any preconceived notions about Poodles you may have: Poodles are eager, athletic, and wickedly smart dogs of remarkable versatility. The Standard, with his greater size and strength, is the best all-around athlete of the family, but all Poodles can be trained with great success.

Poodle (Standard) 

Whether Standard, Miniature, or Toy, and either black, white, or apricot, the Poodle stands proudly among dogdom's true aristocrats. Beneath the curly, low-allergen coat is an elegant athlete and companion for all reasons and seasons.

Poodles come in three size varieties: Standards should be more than 15 inches tall at the shoulder; Miniatures are 15 inches or under; Toys stand no more than 10 inches. All three varieties have the same build and proportions. At dog shows, Poodles are usually seen in the elaborate Continental clip. Most pet owners prefer the simpler Sporting clip, in which the coat is shorn to follow the outline of the squarely built, smoothly muscled body.  Forget any preconceived notions about Poodles you may have: Poodles are eager, athletic, and wickedly smart dogs of remarkable versatility. The Standard, with his greater size and strength, is the best all-around athlete of the family, but all Poodles can be trained with great success.

Poodle (Toy) 

Despite his diminutive size, the Toy Poodle stands proudly among dogdom's true aristocrats. Beneath the curly, low-allergen coat is an elegant athlete and companion for all reasons and seasons.

Poodles come in three size varieties: Standards should be more than 15 inches tall at the shoulder; Miniatures are 15 inches or under; Toys stand no more than 10 inches. All three varieties have the same build and proportions. At dog shows, Poodles are usually seen in the elaborate Continental clip. Most pet owners prefer the simpler Sporting clip, in which the coat is shorn to follow the outline of the squarely built, smoothly muscled body.  Forget any preconceived notions about Poodles you may have: Poodles are eager, athletic, and wickedly smart dogs of remarkable versatility. The Standard, with his greater size and strength, is the best all-around athlete of the family, but all Poodles can be trained with great success.

Porcelaine 

The Porcelaine is elegant, energetic, and a fierce hunter; he is used for small game, driving it to waiting guns. He is very fond of his owners, family, friends and children and he loves to take part in all family activities. He excels as a house pet and is easily crate trained and housebroken.

Elegant, proud, graceful, cat-like and stunningly gorgeous, the Porcelaine is never shy or timid and always eager for a pat on the head or a hug. His nature makes him an excellent candidate for medical therapy, medical alert, medical service, police public relations, and search and rescue. The Porcelaine is primarily a hunting dog breed, originating from a mixture of highly intelligent French and English scent hounds. That said, you must remember that any breed with a high prey drive will require careful consideration in housing and handling. Another charming aspect of the breed is that they tend to be quiet indoors or in their kennel, but do have a beautiful melodious baying call. They are not nuisance barkers.

Portuguese Podengo 

Portuguese Podengos are lively, agile, playful, alert, highly intelligent but not always easy to train, independent yet loving with the family and sometimes suspicious of strangers. The breed's two sizes have different jobs: the larger hunts deer and boar and the medium-sized hunts rabbit. In the U.S, they are successful in coursing, agility, nose work, barn hunt, rally and in the conformation ring.

The Podengo is a rugged coursing hound that comes in two sizes: (medium, standing 16 to 22 inches at the shoulder) and (large, 22 to 28 inches). They also have two coat types: smooth and wirehaired. The breed's enthusiasts describe it as 'primitive,' that is, it's a rustic, no-frills hound untouched by fads and fashion since arriving on the Iberian Peninsula ages ago. Among their distinctive characteristics are large, erect, triangular ears; a pyramid-shaped head that tapers to the nose; and sweetly expressive, almond-shaped eyes. Podengos, in general, are funny dogs that love to play. They easily entertain themselves with toys, chase each other and stalk each other around the house and yard. They are highly intelligent and learn new things very fast. Since they are a watchful dog though, they are not as easy going and playful with strangers and may view smaller animals like dogs and cats as prey. They may be quite reserved initially and prefer to greet strangers on their own terms. They are very tolerant and compliant, eager to please their family members and put up with most requests we make of them.

Portuguese Podengo Pequeno 

Classified as a hound, the alert and playful little Portuguese Podengo Pequeno is a quick, athletic rabbit hunter of ancient lineage. Pequenos love to run, romp, and chase when outdoors but make charming and well-mannered housemates.

The Pequeno is the smallest of Portugal's three Podengo breeds, standing 8 to 12 inches at the shoulder and weighing no more than 13 pounds. A distinctive feature is the wedge-shaped head, with expressive almond-shaped eyes and erect, pointed ears. The long-backed body is muscular, the tail tapered and sickle-shaped, and the coat either short and dense or long and wiry. The overall look is that of a rustic, no-nonsense rabbit dog unspoiled by passing fashions.

Portuguese Pointer 

The Portuguese Pointer is a very old hunting breed bred to work closely with its handler. They are enthusiastic in their work and very dedicated to their owner.

The Portuguese Pointer is considered a medium-sized dog. As a sporting dog, they have quite a bit of energy, especially when young. Their affectionate nature is so intense that the Portuguese standard describes it as sometimes ""inappropriate and inconvenient."" This breed is very hardy and is capable of great endurance and devotion. Calm and very sociable, they can be somewhat haughty towards other dogs. Curious by nature, they work with persistence and vivacity and are always a keen hunter that stays in close contact with his handler.

Portuguese Sheepdog 

The Portuguese Sheepdog is exceptionally intelligent and lively. Very devoted to the shepherd and his herd, he can be somewhat wary of strangers and vigilant at night. Today, he is also an excellent companion, sporting and guard dog. He is known for his skillful ability to keep livestock in pastures and also for searching out stray animals. He is always vigilant and successfully alerts if predators are in the area. This breed is extremely devoted to its work and conducts it with joy and pleasure.

Portuguese Sheepdogs are medium-sized dogs with appreciable rusticity and sobriety and are extremely agile and swift. Their long hair has a goat-like texture, without an undercoat, and can be straight or slightly wavy. The dense and evenly-distributed coat forms a long beard, mustache, and eyebrows that are not so long as to cover his eyes. Coat colors can be yellow, brown, grey, fawn, wolf grey in shades ranging from light to dark, and black, accompanied by tan markings. This lively breed has a simian-like attitude and appearance, which is why it is known in its native region of Portugal as a 'monkey dog'.

Portuguese Water Dog 

The bright and biddable Portuguese Water Dog was bred to be an all-around fisherman's helper. The robust, medium-sized body is covered by a coat of tight, low-shedding curls. PWDs are eager and athletic companions built for water work.

The Portuguese Water Dog is super-smart and very 'biddable', meaning he's easy to train and eager to please. The PWD can be groomed in two styles: The retriever clip (the entire coat is clipped to one inch in length, with the tail tip at full length) or the more check-me-out lion clip, where the coat is on the hindquarters and muzzle is clipped down to the skin.

Pudelpointer 

The Pudelpointer is a calm, self-controlled, versatile gun dog with a distinct hunting instinct and lacks game or gun shyness. In his native country of Germany, he has always ranked high in performance tests and in the field. This breed is enjoyed and valued for its desire and drive.

The Pudelpointer originated in Germany, created by crossing the Poodle with the Pointer. A versatile, genetically sound and healthy gun dog emerged from this cross and the breed is useful for all kinds of work in the fields, woods and water. His coat can be wire-haired, smooth/short, or rough and his coat color ranges from light brown to black. He may also have small white markings.

Pug 

Once the mischievous companion of Chinese emperors, and later the mascot of Holland's royal House of Orange, the small but solid Pug is today adored by his millions of fans around the world. Pugs live to love and to be loved in return.

The Pug's motto is the Latin phrase 'multum in parvo'  (a lot in a little)' an apt description of this small but muscular breed. They come in three colors: silver or apricot-fawn with a black face mask, or all black. The large round head, the big, sparkling eyes, and the wrinkled brow give Pugs a range of human-like expressions' surprise, happiness, curiosity' that have delighted owners for centuries. Pug owners say their breed is the ideal house dog. Pugs are happy in the city or country, with kids or old folks, as an only pet or in a pack. They enjoy their food, and care must be taken to keep them trim. They do best in moderate climates' not too hot, not too cold' but, with proper care, Pugs can be their adorable selves anywhere.

Puli 

No other breed can be mistaken for the Puli, a compact but powerful herder covered from head to tail with profuse, naturally occurring cords. Bred to work closely with humans, these agile and faithful little dynamos are quick learners.

First, there are those dreadlocks, the instantly recognizable feature of the Puli (pronounced "Poo-lee", "Pulik" is the plural). The coat's naturally occurring cords are wooly, dense, and weatherproof. Either corded or brushed out, Puli coats require lots of attention. Under the dreads there's a compact but powerful dog, standing 16 to 17 inches at the shoulder. Pulik are remarkably agile and light on their feet, earning a reputation as the 'acrobat of the dog world.'

Pumi 

A compact, nimble-footed herder of Hungarian origin, the Pumi is easily recognized by a corkscrew-curled coat, two-thirds erect ears, and distinctive whimsical expression. The breed is famed for its intelligence, agility, and boldness.

The Pumi (POO-mee; plural Pumik) was conceived as a compact, quick, and fearless sheepherder capable of moving flocks on the narrow roads connecting the pastures of western Hungary. At a glance, it might be hard to believe that this cuddly charmer was born to do such tough work. With his coat of corkscrew curls, circular tail, expressive ears, and distinctively whimsical look, the Pumi is all kinds of cute. But beneath the curls is a lean, deep-chested herder with a seemingly endless capacity for work and play.

Pyrenean Mastiff 

A centuries-old, rare breed from the Pyrenees Mountains in Spain, this livestock guardian protected flocks from wolves, bears and thieves. Today, while it is still an effective guardian, many families have found the joy of owning the gentle and loving, yet independent, Pyrenean Mastiff.

The Pyrenean Mastiff is friendly towards humans, calm, noble and very intelligent. At the same time, he is courageous and proud towards strangers, from whom he never backs away. In his behavior towards other dogs, he is good-natured and aware of his superior strength. Though he will do his job to alert when strangers or animals come around, he is not known for being an incessant barker. As a guardian breed, the Pyrenean Mastiff has a very low prey drive and, therefore, loves and protects all creatures, human and animal alike. They love children and welcome friends and family, and only feel the need to protect when its a real threat. All that love can get a bit messy though; just like any mastiff, they do drool and quite profusely when exposed to heat, food, or water.

Pyrenean Shepherd 

Enthusiastic, mischievous, and whip-smart, the Pyrenean Shepherd is an indefatigable herder descended from ancient sheepdogs of the Pyrenees mountains. Tough and sinewy Pyr Sheps come in 'rough-faced' and 'smooth-faced' coat varieties.

These tough, lean, and lively herders, famous for their vigorous and free-flowing movement, come in two coat varieties: rough-faced and smooth-faced. Roughs have profuse, 'windswept' hair above the muzzle and a generally harsh coat; smooths have short facial hair, a finer-textured coat, and a slightly longer, pointier muzzle. Both varieties of this sinewy, rectangular breed come in many colors and patterns. Pyr Sheps see the world through dark almond-shaped eyes conveying an alert and cunning expression.

Rafeiro do Alentejo 

The Rafeiro do Alentejo is an excellent farm and estate watch dog. He is also a very useful livestock protector, being more vigilant at night and very serious when guarding territory or any other property entrusted to him. He has a calm and confident expression.

Since the beginning of the breed's history, Rafeiros Alentejanos were used in packs as hunting dogs for big game, though this function has gradually disappeared over time. More recently, the breed is a guard dog for property and livestock, watching sheep and cattle. They also often work alone in prairies and will defend the herd against any intruders. Hailing from Portugal, the Rafeiro do Alentejo is a large-sized dog, powerful, rustic, sober, and calm. He moves with a heavy, slow roll. His coat is short or medium-length and thick, straight and dense. They can be black, wolf grey, or fawn, with or without brindling, always with white markings; or white with patches of these colors.

Rat Terrier 

An American original, with a breed name said to be coined by Teddy Roosevelt, the Rat Terrier is a compact, tough, smooth-coated exterminator dog. RTs come in two size varieties and are happy-go-lucky, playful, and portable companions.

Balanced, compactly built Rat Terriers are tough but elegant-looking. There are two size divisions: Miniatures stand 10 to 13 inches at the shoulder; standards are over 13 inches and as high as 18 inches. The smooth, shiny coat comes in varieties of pied patterns. (Pied, a word borrowed from the horseman's lexicon, means 'comparatively large patches of one or more colors in combination with white.') These smoothly muscled exterminators are constructed for the efficient movement required for a long day's work.

Redbone Coonhound 

The streamlined Redbone Coonhound, an American original, is even-tempered, mellow, and kindly at home but a tiger on the trail.

Vigorous activities like hunting and swimming between long periods of rest is the rhythm of coonhound life. Redbones are medium-to-large hound dogs whose muscles undulate beneath a sleek and stunning red coat. The overall impression is that a master sculptor carved them from blocks of the finest mahogany. The classically houndy head is flanked by ears long enough to reach the nose. Dreamy brown eyes give the face an expression described by the breed's devotees as 'pleading.' Bred to work on all kinds of punishing terrain, Redbones are fast and surefooted and move with a proud, determined gait.

Rhodesian Ridgeback 

The Rhodesian Ridgeback is an all-purpose 'Renaissance hound' whose hallmark is the ridge, or stripe of backward-growing hair, on his back. Though the breed was made famous in its native Africa for its skill at tracking and baying, but never, ever killing,  lions, today Ridgebacks are cherished family dogs whose owners must be prepared to deal with their independence and strong prey drive.

Beneath the Ridgeback's trademark ridge is a whole lot of hound: Ridgebacks are fast and powerful athletes who can weigh between 70 and 85 pounds, and oftentimes more. They come in only one color, wheaten, which spans every shade seen in a wheat field, from pale flaxen to the burnished red of a maturing crop. Ridgebacks also have two nose colors: black and the less commonly seen brown. The formidable Ridgeback can be strong-willed, independent, and sometimes domineering. Ridgebacks must be guided with a firm but a fair hand from puppyhood. They are faithful friends, protective of their loved ones, and meltingly affectionate with those whom they trust. Still, a Ridgeback can be too much hound for the novice dog owner.

Romanian Carpathian Shepherd 

The Romanian Carpathian Shepherd dog is a natural guardian, very courageous and loyal, distinguishing itself by its unconditional attachment and devotion to the whole family, or the herd it protects and to its master. The Carpathian is a dignified, proud, calm, and balanced dog.

The Romanian Carpathian Shepherds are fierce guardians, brave, intelligent, loyal, and proud dogs that are also very playful, and fully devoted to their family and master - they will listen to all family, but recognize one human to be the ultimate master they will follow. The Carpathians are large, double coated dogs, gray wolf-like in color, very agile and powerful. They are extremely efficient working dogs, naturally selected to guard and protect herds and flocks from the large numbers of gray wolves, brown bears and other predators housed in the Carpathian Mountains of Romania, the dogs playing an important role in maintain a balanced, natural habitat between humans, domesticated animals, and wild predators in the area.

Most Carpathian Shepherds today are still working in the Romanian mountains, performing the same jobs they were selected for hundreds of years ago, and, when they are not doing that, they are loyal companions and vigilant guardians of homes and families. Frequently described as ¿noble¿ dogs due to their proud and dignified elegance, the Carpathians are big and strong, standing as high as 30 inches at the shoulder and often weighing more than 100 pounds. These fierce guardians usually are very calm and balanced, appearing indifferent at times, while preserving their energy for the real danger. At the right moment, they will quickly spring into action and move with unexpected agility, speed and determination to meet a threat.

Romanian Mioritic Shepherd Dog 

The Romanian Mioritic Shepherd Dog origins come from near the Carpathian Mountains. The breed is very impressive in size and character.

Used for centuries to guard livestock in its homeland of Romania, the Mioritic Sheepdog is a typical Livestock Guarding Dog (LGD). Loyal, reliable, independent, and fiercely protective, he is friendly and devoted to his family but very mistrusting of strangers. It is a large dog with long coat which requires regular grooming, and with any dog of this size and temperament requires daily exercise and basic obedience training. Mioritics are lively and stubborn but in spite of all their independence they are very sensitive creatures in their furry armor. As puppies they stick to the pack which has accepted them. This can be any kind of creature ' dog, cat, horse, sheep, the Mioritic needs very close family ties; a house without doors it thinks would be ideal. This certainly depends a great deal on the weather. Its favorite place is always very close to its favorite person. It determines its resting place itself. This may even be the couch or a carpet not suitable for dogs, but as a rule shepherds, even as puppies, prefer to sleep on hard ground. They need no dog baskets, no special mattresses and by no means an allocated place. No 'work creating' program is necessary but daily walks and hikes provide exciting variation.

Rottweiler 

The Rottweiler is a robust working breed of great strength descended from the mastiffs of the Roman legions. A gentle playmate and protector within the family circle, the Rottie observes the outside world with a self-assured aloofness. A male Rottweiler will stand anywhere from 24 to 27 muscular inches at the shoulder; females run a bit smaller and lighter.

The glistening, short black coat with smart rust markings add to the picture of imposing strength. A thickly muscled hindquarters powers the Rottie's effortless trotting gait. A well-bred and properly raised Rottie will be calm and confident, courageous but not unduly aggressive. The aloof demeanor these world-class guardians present to outsiders belies the playfulness, and downright silliness, that endear Rotties to their loved ones. (No one told the Rottie he's not a toy breed, so he is liable plop onto your lap for a cuddle.) Early training and socialization will harness a Rottie's territorial instincts in a positive way.

Russell Terrier 

Upbeat, lively, inquisitive, and friendly, the jaunty Russell Terrier was developed by England's "Sporting Parson" for use in foxhunts.

The adorable Russell Terrier looks like a plush toy come to life but is an eager, tireless working terrier. These jaunty little fellows pack lots of personality into a compact, rectangular body standing 10 to 12 inches at the shoulder. Their dark, almond-shaped eyes and mobile V-shaped ears bring out the keenly intelligent expression'an endearing hallmark of the breed. All three coat types are mostly white with markings that are tan or black, or both. Russells move with a free, effortless gait that announces the breed's innate confidence.

Russian Toy 

The Russian Toy is a small, elegant, lively dog with long legs, fine bones and lean muscles. They are active and cheerful, possessing keen intelligence and a desire to please. This breed loves to snuggle and be close to their human companions, although sometimes slightly aloof to strangers. They are neither cowardly nor aggressive.

The Russian Toy is a toy breed with a lineage that dates back to the Russian aristocracy. In general, he is a good-natured imp that loves to run and play. They will dash through the house or yard chasing toys as long as you can keep up, while many others are willing to do nothing more than lounge in your lap all day long, content in knowing that they are the prize jewel in your home. They thrive on human companionship and will let you know if they are feeling neglected. Their coat is either semi-long or smooth. The longhaired variety carries a nice ruff on the chest and unique feathering on the extremities, tail and ears. Long-coated Russian Toys will not have an adult coat until it is more than a year old and full fringing not until three years of age. The smooth-coated variety is sleek and smooth to the touch. There is also a slight attitude difference between the two varieties. Smooth Coats tend to be a little more terrier-like than Long Coats. However, both share a larger-than-life personality.

Russian Tsvetnaya Bolonka 

Russkaya Tsvetnaya Bolonka translates to "Russian Colored Lapdog." Bolonki were originally bred to be the ultimate house pet for apartment living. Sweet, loving, intelligent, and willing to please, he is friendly to all and shows no sign of aggression.

The Russian Tsvetnaya Bolonka, or Bolonka for short, is a member of the Bichon family that was almost extinct until after the Cold War. It is a small companion dog that is hypoallergenic, funny, clever beyond words and intensely loyal to its family. Some are excellent mimics; others are content to sit by the door and monitor who is allowed in or out. Spirited, yet easy-going and sociable, the Russian Tsvetnaya Bolonka is great with children. Although they are quick to alert, they will not be a constant barker with early training on appropriate behavior. They are fairly independent for a toy breed and require early socialization with people. However, Bolonki do get along well with dogs and other animals. Very clever and smart, they do well in formal training such as obedience, rally, tracking and agility when trained with a firm, but gentle, hand.