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Brussels Griffon dogs are also known as Griffon Bruxellois. The Griffon Bruxellois however can refer to three different breeds, the Griffon Bruxcellois, the Petit Brabacon and the Griffon Belge.

These dogs are identical except for their coats and colors. The Griffon Bruellois's coat is wiry, red or reddish brown. The Griffon Belge's coat is harsh and dense with either black, black and tan or black and red. Finally, the Petit Brabacon's coat is smooth, glossy and short, which can come in all colors. All these breeds are sturdy toy dogs.

The Griffon's or Griff's, nick manes for these dogs, have thickset short bodies but are well boned. Their rounded head is large in proportion to their bodies with a prominent chin. Their ears are set high on their head with very black and extremely short nose. Their tail is wet and hold high.
Large black eyes are set well apart with long eyelashes that are black. They have an almost human expression with their eyebrows, mustache and beard.

They weight between 8 - 10 pounds, are 7 - 8 inches high and live to be 12 - 15 years old.

The dogs with the rough cats do not shed but the smooth and short coats dogs do shed.

Brussel Griffon's are intelligent, sensitive but mischievous little dogs. They are also, curious, alert, cheerful, playful, and eager to learn and full of self-importance.

Their small size makes them unsuitable as a family pet although they get along well with children. It is recommended that if you have children they be over five years of age.

They get along with other dogs and other household pets.

These adaptable dogs have huge hearts and like to snuggle with their owner. They are happiest when they are with them and they will follow them around the house. They do need a lot of attention.

They are emotionally sensitive so they need to be socialized carefully when young. The Brussels Griffon may be difficult to housebreak. They do however make good watchdogs.

They can be willful and high-strung so they need gentle but firm handing when training. It is a good idea to make training fun to keep his attention. Obedience classes are recommended.

These dogs do well in apartments or condominium's but need short walks and play time to get enough exercise. They are intolerant of cold weather though.

Grooming for these dogs depend on their coat type. The smooth coast dogs need regular brushing. The hard coats need grooming with a technique called "stripping". This is done by pulling out dead hair by hand. Their beards need to be combed, occasionally bathed, nails trimmed short and their ears should be cleaned occasionally.

Health problems they are prone to are:

Heat stroke


Lacerations


Cataracts


Len luxation


Glaucoma

This breed originated in Belgium in the 1800's. They were first used in coach houses to keep rats away. They were like Affenpinscher dogs but were later bred with Pugs and King Charles Spaniels. In the late 1800's they were popular with noblemen and workers. After the First and Second World Wars this breed almost were extinct. Only through dedicated breeders were they able to survive.

This breed never has been popular and is considered an uncommon breed.

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For a family with young children the question will come up when choosing a small pet dog. You want to know if the dog will get along with the all of the family. So, before you make any decisions you need to know where to find small dogs that are good with kids and perhaps other pets you already have.

It is not a good idea to adopt a new dog when you have a new born or young toddler. You will be very busy training one small human to locate the bathroom and eat on their own that a puppy or even a full grown dog can be a little too much all at once. Puppies keep their new families up while they are growing and getting settled just as babies and young children do. Waiting until all the excitement of a new person's arrival has died down to get a new pet is usually recommended.

Pugs

Pugs are a good mix with younger passed the toddler stage. These little dogs with a big personality seem to consider children as siblings. They like to play games that involve a lot of actions, but fetching the ball might not be this little fellow's thing. He will also loyally follow the family around everywhere really getting his feelings hurt if he is left out. Children will need to be firmly taught to leave this guy alone when he is at his water or food bowl. He is easily leashed trained and housebroken.

Affenpinscher

The Affenpinscher might not be the best choice for most children. He will do well with a studious student who likes visits to the library and some playtime in the park, but while this little guy has comic side most children enjoy, he's just fragile for roughhousing and can be hard to train. An active or hot tempered child might lose their temper with this guy despite his cute monkey like furry face. The little balls of fur are also difficult to house train.

Toy Fox Terrier

Some small dogs good with kids can be hurt by them. If your child can be taught to be gentle and careful than a great playmate might be the Toy Fox Terrier. This little guy is a light weight with soulful eyes and quick energetic movements. His coat is soft and smooth and easy to care for, and he will become very protective of those he loves. He likes to play ball, and he can play the clown seeming to know when he's attracted an audience for his antics.

The downside is he can be hurt, even killed easily due to the same fragility you find in most small breeds. When you have this type of dog child must be made to understand that have to keep an eye out for him. A backpack full of books slammed down in frustration, or a slammed door can cause a serious if not fatal accident for this little sweetheart. Otherwise their health is unusually good for a small breed and a Toy Fox terrier living to 14 years or more is not that uncommon.

Conclusion

Finding a new family member is a serious commitment that needs to be taken seriously by the oldest and youngest members of the family. If a parent teaches a child how to care for a pet successfully this is a lesson that will serve this young person all their life.

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Several breeds of dog are commonly known to be difficult to house train. The explanation for house training issues often depends on what breed you have chosen. Hounds, both sight and scent, get distracted in the blink of an eye. They either see or smell something, and the prime reason for being outside flips from an elimination mission, to a hunt!

The following sight and smell hounds commonly fall into the difficult to house train category: Afghan Hound, American Foxhound, Basenji, Bassett Hound, Beagle, Blood Hound, Dachshund, Irish Wolf Hound, Italian Greyhound, Norwegian Elkhound, Saluki, and Whippet.

Because of their hunting instincts, some spaniels, such as the American Cocker Spaniel, Cavalier King Charles and English Spaniel also fall into the difficult to house train category. They often get distracted and "forget" the reason they are taken outside. Working dogs and dogs late to mature, such as Alaskan Malamute, Great Dane, Siberian Husky, Mastiff, and Shar Pei, sometimes take as many as 2-3 years, before they can be fully trusted.

Terriers are notoriously difficult to housebreak. Independent by nature, unless their owner establishes their Alpha status immediately, firmly and consistently, terriers will relentlessly challenge their authority. Difficult to house train terriers include, American Staffordshire, Cairn, Irish, Jack Russell, Lakeland, Norfolk, Norwich, Pit Bull, Rat, Soft Coated Wheaton, Welsh, and West Highland White.

Small and toy breeds have their own unique explanations for house training issues. First and foremost, is the limited capacity of their bladder and bowel. Their owners should take into consideration, and be reasonable in the amount of time allowed between eliminations. Due to their small stature, several do not like to get wet, wade through tall grass or snow, to go about doing their business outside. They also often soil in the house, because the vast area of where they live overwhelms them. Most dogs will not soil in their den, unless absolutely necessary. All small and toy dogs should be restricted to a smaller area, until you are sure they can be trusted with the run of the house. Small and toy dogs such as Affenpinscher, Belgian Griffon, Bichon Frise, Havanese, Maltese, Papillion, Pekinese, Pomeranian, Pug, Schipperke, and Shih Tzu fall into the most difficult house train class. The good thing is, they are also usually easy to train to use puppy pads!

Bottom line: If your dog is having house training issues, STAY CALM, and follow these simple rules:

1. Take them outside IMMEDIATELY when they wake up in the morning, using a "keyword" such as "potty!" or "outside!" EVERY time you take them outside.
2. Take them outside, within 10 minutes after meals.
3. Keep your dog on a regular feeding schedule. DO NOT leave food down for them to graze on. Limit feeding time to 15-20 minutes. Then pick up the bowl. If you don't know what time it goes in, you will not know what time it comes out!
4. Take them outside IMMEDIATELY after a nap.
5. Take them outside, IMMEDIATELY after exceptional excitement, such as your arrival home, arrival of company, or playing.
6. Restrict water 2-3 hours before bedtime. Take them outside for "last call" before bedtime.
7. Give young puppies an addition 10 minutes outside, after they eliminate. Sometimes they get nervous or distracted, and they don't "finish."
8. DO NOT reward your dog in the house, for what they should be rewarded for doing outside...it confuses them. Praise and treats for this mission, should be given outside.
9. DO NOT praise your dog while they are in the process. Praise IMMEDIATELY, when their mission is completed. Some dogs get so distracted or excited about being praised; they "forget" to finish!
10. If you cannot supervise your dog until you can trust it, restrict their access to a designated area.
11. Be patient, and consistent. If YOU don't stick to a schedule, it makes it more difficult and confusing for your dog to make the necessary associations.

Choosing the right dog for your lifestyle is a bit 'challenging. Our life is very busy and, as adults we have our views on how we live and what we have done in our lives.

At one point or another idea of a pet creeps into our thinking and, in general, the types of PET, we choose a cat or a dog.

Cats usually fits into a lifestyle quite well. Dogs on the other hand, they need a little 'more thought to how they need more space, time andgeneral assistance.

The purpose of this article is to give you some of the types of races, alarms, and how their demands could fit into your lifestyle.

The first is higher than what we want "live house and the dog."

Granted, there are many homes that do not allow a dog, for obvious reasons. Some dog owners are not responsible, who are almost impossible for responsible dog owners a place to live.

Shelters are full of dogs that theirOwners have abandoned or have been to the basement because they can keep them in an apartment.

It 'very difficult to keep a dog barking in an apartment. It is also unfair for a large dog that needs plenty of exercise and not have it, pull the carpet or chew wood to keep out of boredom. If you have a dog and live in an apartment, there are certain breeds that make good apartment dogs. Some dogs secretly want to be "couch potatoes" andWould like in an apartment or condominium.

Some of these dogs are low energy houses: Cocker Spaniel, Clumber Spaniel, Bichon Frize, Poodle, Lhasa Apso, Shih Tzu, Yorkshire Terrier, Chihuahua, Maltese, Papillon, Pekingese, Pomeranian Cockapoo, and to name a few. Interracial combinations of these dogs can make good pets, too. This does not mean that they do not need to exercise, it means that they do not do too much and so does the demand in most cases not loud (granted a few.)
If you move into an apartment and already have a similar dog and the owner or manager of the apartment is not too happy with the idea that we move in, you should consider this game plan.

Together a package that a list of references, such as your veterinarian, neighbors of the current, possibly a former owner and others that the government is also PET is well cared for and that you are a responsible owner. Add information about your pet's current vaccination, proof of license, a record thatshowing the animal has been sterilized or neutered and a copy of training obedience school, if applicable. Even the promise to clean up after the animal inside (an accident) and outside, are committed to maintaining a pet store, pet promise "flea-free and the home and decided to sign a political agreement, if necessary .

You put the animal in an interview and are thus suitable for the owners or managers the opportunity to visit your home at the time.

If you livein an apartment that has no fixed rules for pets, I would first check whether the permission of courage, and became a pet parent.

Depending on the situation, I would also want to say that for now a request for permission to create a list of references that you have a responsible person and the name of a veterinarian you are considering using for your pet. They offer to pay a pet deposit and may have a list of things you should worry about your pet and home, apet.

It 'been shown that most pet owners are responsible people.

It is a pity that there are some people who do not take care of us around the property of others and does not really interest me take care of their pets.

If you try to convince your future landlord, or your current owner on it, which is an animal in the house a good idea to keep a cool head. Spend some 'time gathering evidence, which is a responsible pet owner and a tenant responsible. Be preparedCompromise.

If a dog is not a problem and you are looking for a dog that requires "just some exercise." Here are a couple of races, or take into account: Bulldog, Pug, Italian Greyhound, and Miniature Fox Terrier, Bichon Frize, Lhasa Apso are Maltese, Pekepoo, plus there are many more.

If the degradation is another point of contention, if you remember to include a dog, I have some of these races. There are many people who do not believe that with a dog or cat hair on their clothes as a sign of aneat person.

Remember, you do not own a dog that does not leave completely. "All dogs shed some, 'but there are some breeds that shed little, and here is a list of some of them: Airedale Terrier, Basenji, Bichon Frize, Bichon / Yorkie, Cairn Terrier, Cockapoo, Schnauzer, Kerry Blue Terrier, Labradoodle, Maltese, is Schnoodles, Shih Tzu, Silky Terrier and many others.

Some of us really just want a dog around. " The truth is that most of the dogs' large or small "I want a turnDog. However, I am on the list of the few who actually ride the dogs: American Cocker Spaniel, Bichon Frize, Bichon / Yorkie, Chihuahua, Dachshund, Lhasa Apso, Maltese, Malti-Poo, Poodle, many Terrier, Shih Tzu, and many of Schnoodles smaller dogs.

If you're a jogger, you can have a companion in order to run with you and there are some dogs that will run only love. Among the races, the race, see: Airedale Terrier, American Pit Bull Terrier, Australian Cattle Dogs LoveBasenjis, Bearded Collie, Boxer, Dalmatian, Doberman, Golden Retriever, Greyhound, Irish Setter, Rhodesian Ridgeback, Rottweiler, just to name a few.

Along with running, there are some dogs that have a great need of exercise. These are the dogs who need long walks, running and playing big yards to poll

I can not name all, but here are some of the breeds standard: Airedale Terrier, Afghan Hound, Australian Cattle Dog, Border Collie, Brittany Spaniel, Dalmatian, English areSetter, Pyrenees, Irish Setter, Vizula, Weimaraner, and the Redbone Coonhound.

There are many popular hybrid dogs. The poodle has combined more than that Boxerdoodle, Cockapoo, Lhasapoo, Schnoodle, Shih Poo, tally, Weimardoodle one (which I would like to see.) Think you'll find a combination of dogs and somewhere you will be able it. There are breeders who breed breeds to everything you need to do is go on the Internet and find. So be sure to checktheir credentials before you buy and try to see the dogs before buying.

If you already have a pet and are wondering what kind of dog to get along with your cat, bird or other. Here is a list of some dogs, which are generally good with other pets (note I said usually there are no guarantees.)

They are generally good: Affenpinscher, American Cocker Spaniel, American Eskimo Dog, Australian Shepherd, Basset Hound, Bearded Collie, Bichon Frize, Boston Terrier, Bulldog, Dachshund, Gordon Setter, Keeshond, and there are many more.

Some dogs will get along with other types of pets if they are raised with them from puppy-hood. Among those are: American Bulldog, American Pit Bull Terrier, Cairn Terrier, Chihuahua, English Springer Spaniel, Great Dane, Mastiff and many more.

Now there are some that are not trustworthy with other pets, (what comes to my mind is a picture of a Greyhound and a bunny.) Here is a short list of some of the breeds: Bichon/Yorkie, Bull terrier, Dingo, Fox Terrier, Irish Terrier, Lhasa Apso, Miniature Fox Terrier, Rat Terrier, Silky Terrier and more. I believe the Terrier breed was bred by the English to hunt rodents and small prey and that may be why they do not get along with other pets.

In order to cover all categories I will mention some breeds that do not get along with anything except another dog and I would be careful there, too. Afghan Hounds will start our list and I will continue with Australian Cattle Dog, Basenji, Beagle, Border Collie, Greyhound, Jack Russell Terrier, Parson Russell Terrier, Rhodesian Ridgeback, Samoyed, Whippet and Weimaraner, but there's more.

If you opt for a large dog that is with your children, I will cover some of these, too. The best of dogs: American Cocker Spaniel, American Mastiff, American Bulldog, Basset Hound, Bloodhound, English Setter, Golden Retriever, German Mastiff, Gordon Setter, Keeshond, Labrador Retriever,Pug, St. Bernard, and there are others.

Some of the best dog for older children (children who do not tease the dog:) Alaskan Malamute, Border Collie, Cairn Terrier, Chihuahua, Chow Chow, Greyhound, Jack Russell Terrier, Maltese, Toy Poodle, Pekinese, Pekepoo, Pomerania, Shih - tzu, and of course there are more.

It 'really a "dog" for every lifestyle, you only need your time and look for them to take.

The Internet is a great source for finding informationrace. There are many breeders who are willing to help you find the perfect pet.

Dogs can be a challenge. It takes patience and you must be willing to give your time and love. Not consider a dog, unless you are willing to assume full responsibility. As a dog parent takes time, money, patience, love and respect for another life. If you become the responsibility of a dog to give you much more in return.

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This is a unique small dog breed often called a "miniature Doberman." They are a unique breed in their own right. This German native is a loving, active little dog. They actually date back further than the Doberman. With ancestry that includes the German Pinscher this was a breed that was originally used to kill rats in the stables. At some point it is thought the Italian Greyhound might have been added in to get the higher stepping action.

A distinct picture in very old pictures document the Mini Pin's heritage but documentation of pedigrees is 200 years ago. The family includes not only the German Pinscher but also Schnauzers and Affenpinscher. In 1895 a club was made for German Pinschers and Schnauzers. The "pinscher" was descriptive of the pouncing on quarry and biting to kill.

In 1919 the breed was brought to the USA and was originally called a toy pinscher. They were changed to miniature pinscher in 1972.

A small size of 10-12-1/2 inches with their height ideally equal to height at the highest point of the shoulder this is a small dog that can make an ideal pet. Any dog under 10 inches or over 12 ½ inches does not meet the standard but can still make a great pet. A short coat that lies tight against the body, they're an easy to maintain breed. They can be solid red, stag red, black and rust, or chocolate and rust.

Also called the Min Pin, this is a dog that is alert, low maintenance and often fearless. Prior to 1928 there were very few in the USA but in 1929 the Miniature Pinscher Club of America was formed to promote the breed. A valued watch dog that will alarm bark despite the small size this is a big dog in a small dog body.

Cropping the ears is optional but the tail should be docked. The short coat and high stepping gait make for an animated dog that is low maintenance. They are intelligent, active and brave. They're also often cuddle dogs that get on best with an experienced owner.

Like many small dogs he needs to be trained from early on with discipline so that he isn't "above" humans in the pack order. There is no reason for these little guys to be bad tempered but if you allow him to be unchecked that I what you can create. They can be suspicious of strangers but can also learn to be wonderful, social little dogs that can adapt to many situations.

This is an indoor dog that could adapt to apartment providing there is sufficient interaction. A romp in the yard helps but they also need regular walks to be happy.

The short coat is easy maintenance with regular brushing and wet towel to wipe him down regularly. This short coat does dictate needing warmer places to be, as an inside dog with additional cold weather protection when outside in cold weather.

The incredible intelligence of the Min Pin makes the breed ideal as service dogs. They can instinctively pick up on many things and one special service dog will alert his diabetic owner when blood sugar levels need attention.

They can also be therapy dogs for a wide variety of issues and are small enough to get on the bed with children and elderly patients. They're a great dog with children but many times children are too rough with them. Although the Min Pin thinks it's a big dog they aren't and playing too rough can mean injuries to the dog.

The Min Pin thrives on being with their owners. They're good watch and alert dogs although their size prevents them from being much more than that. They are very active dogs that enjoy learning and can be territorial. They need training to be a balanced, happy breed representative.

When Miniature Pinscher owners describe their dogs a wide range of descriptions come up. Sometimes it's two sides of the same coin - hardy, brave, persistent can also be headstrong, possessive and stubborn! They can be willful and demanding but are also agile and feisty and very loyal to their people. These variations underscore that the Miniature Pinscher is not a breed for everyone. The timid owner that isn't willing to put the time to consistent training would be better off with a dog less likely to push every barrier put up. These little guys can last 15 years so be sure when you get one you are absolutely committed no matter what.

It takes just a moment for a Min Pin to get in serious trouble. Looking away for a minute while the Min Pin sees someone across the street but doesn't see the oncoming car is just one of the dangers that lurk for these little guys.

Genetic issues that can affect Min Pins include patellar luxation, Legg-Calve-Perthes disease, hip dysplasia, eye disease and invertebral disk disease. There is also indication of some vaccination allergic reactions.

Progressive retinal atrophy is an issue with some Min Pins and parents should be tested to insure health of the offspring. This is a disease that can lead to total blindness and especially for a bold and outgoing dog the world becomes a prison.

Invertebral disk disease affects both humans and dogs. In dogs it's most often from jumping off of something. There might be paralysis of the hindquarters if the spinal cord is damaged. The nerves and spinal cord sometimes can take very little twisting or manipulation to create damage. For some dogs supervised swimming can be of benefit, under veterinary agreement, as it allows the limbs movement without bearing weight. Although more common in the long backed breeds such as dachshunds it can affect Min Pins as well.

Legg-Calve-Perthes disease results from a degeneration of the hip joint. This can often initially be brushed aside as "growing pains." When the blood supply to the femoral head is interrupted some of the bone cell die, and in time this affects how the hip fits into the joint, resulting in pain. It is believed to be hereditary but what gene isn't certain.

For the most part the miniature pinscher is a healthy, very active dog that gives devotion in much larger amounts than his size might have you believe. They're intelligent and pack a lot of dog into a small frame. From a grooming standpoint they are low maintenance; from a health standpoint they are generally very healthy. From a training standpoint they need an active owner who will truly take the lead and be worthy of their unwavering devotion. Balancing praise and discipline can be a difficult thing but this is a breed that NEEDS that time and training in order to be well adjusted and the best he can be. He deserves that and you deserve a dog that will give everything he's got - which is also characteristic of the Miniature Pinscher!

Choosing the right dog for your lifestyle is a bit of a challenge. Our lives are very busy and as adults we have formed our own opinions on how we want to live and what we want in our lives.

At one point or another the thought of a pet creeps into our thinking and usually the types of pet we choose is either a cat or dog.

Cats as a general rule can fit into a lifestyle quite nicely. Dogs on the other hand require a bit more thought as they do require more space, time, and general care.

The purpose of this article is to alert you to some of the types of breeds there are and how their demands might fit into your lifestyle.

The first thing we will consider is "apartment living and the dog."

Granted there are many apartments that will not allow a dog for obvious reasons. Some dog owners who are not responsible have made it almost impossible for the responsible dog owner to find a place to live.

Animal shelters are filled with dogs that their owners have either abandoned or have turned over to the shelter because they cannot keep them in an apartment.

It is very hard to keep a barking dog in an apartment. It is equally unfair to keep a large dog that needs plenty of exercise and doesn't get it, from tearing up the carpet or chewing on the woodwork out of sheer boredom. If you want a dog and live in an apartment there are certain breeds that make good apartment dogs. Some dogs secretly want to become "couch Potatoes" and would love living in an apartment or condominium.

Some of these low energy dogs are: Cocker Spaniels, Clumber Spaniels, Bichon Frise, Poodles, Lhasa Apso, Shih-Tzu, Yorkshire Terriers, Chihuahua, Maltese, Papillon, Pekinese, Pomeranian, and Cockapoo to name a few. Mixed breeds with combinations of these dogs can make good pets, too. This does not mean they do not need exercise; it means that they don't demand a great deal of it and for the most part are not noisy (granted a few are.)
If you are moving into an apartment and already have a similar dog and the apartment owner or manager is not too happy with the idea of you moving in, you might consider this game plan.

Put together a packet that includes a list of references such as your vet, current neighbors, possibly a former landlord and others, that will state the pet is well kept and that you are a responsible owner. Include information on your pet's current vaccinations, proof of license, a record that shows the pet was spayed or neutered and a copy of obedience school training, if applicable. Also include a promise to clean up after the pet inside (should an accident occur) and outside, agree to a pet deposit, promise to keep the pet "flea free" as well as the apartment and agree to sign a policy agreement if necessary.

Offer to bring the pet in for an interview and allow the owner or manager the opportunity to visit your apartment at times that are convenient.

If you are living in an apartment that has no set rules about pets, I would consider asking for permission before I ventured out and became a pet parent.

Depending on the situation, I would also present, when I applied for permission, a list of references stating that you are a responsible person and the name of a vet you are considering on using for your pet. Offer to pay a pet security deposit and make list of things you will do in caring for your pet and the apartment, should you be allowed a pet.

It has been proven that most pet owners are responsible people.

It is unfortunate that there are some people that do not care about the property of others and truly do not care about taken proper care of their pets.

When trying to convince your future landlord or your current landlord that having a pet in the building is a good idea, keep a cool head. Spend some time gathering evidence that a responsible pet owner is also a responsible tenant. Be willing to compromise.

If having a dog is no problem and you are looking for a dog that demands "only some exercise." Here are a few breeds or to consider: Bulldog, Pug, Italian Greyhound, and Miniature Fox Terrier, Bichon Frise, Lhasa Apso, Maltese, Pekepoo, plus there are many more.

If shedding is another point of contention, when thinking of getting a dog I have included some of those breeds. There are many people that do not think having cat or dog hair on their clothes is a sign of a well-groomed person.

Keep in mind there truly isn't a dog that is totally "non-shedding." All dogs shed some, however there are some breeds that shed little and here is a list of some of them: Airdale Terrier, Basenj, Bichon Frise, Bichon/Yorkie, Cairn Terrier, Cockapoo, Schnauzer, Kerry Blue Terrier, Labradoodle, Maltese, Schnoodles, Shih Tzu, Silky Terrier and many more.

Some of us really just want a "lap dog." The truth being most dogs "big or small" would love to be a lap dog. However, I am going to list a few that are truly lap dogs: American Cocker Spaniel, Bichon Frise, Bichon/Yorkie, Chihuahua, Dachshund, Lhasa Apso, Maltese, Malti-poo, poodles, many Terriers, Shih-Tzu, Schnoodles and many more of the smaller dogs.

If you are a jogger, you may want a companion to run with you and there are some dogs that just love to run. Among the breeds that love running you will find: Airedale Terriers, American Pit Bull Terriers, Australian Cattle Dogs, Basenjis, Bearded Collies, Boxers, Dalmatians, Doberman Pinschers, Golden Retrievers, Greyhounds, Irish Setters, Rhodesian Ridgebacks, Rottweilers only to name a few.

Along with running there are some dogs that have a high need for exercise. These are dogs that need long walks, running and big yards to play in.

I cannot name them all, but here are a few of the standard breeds: Airedale Terrier, Afghan Hound, Australian Cattle Dog, Border Collie, Brittany Spaniel, Dalmatian, English Setter, Great Pyrenees, Irish Setter, Vizula, Weimaraner, and the Redbone Coonhound.

There are many popular mixed breeds in dogs. The poodle has more combinations than you can count from Boxerdoodle, Cockapoo, Lhasapoo, Schnoodle, Shih-Poo, to a Weimardoodle (which I would love to see.) Think of a combination of dogs and somewhere you will be able to find it. There are breeders that raise mixed breeds, all you need to do is get on the Internet and find one. Just be certain to check out their credentials before you buy and try to see the dogs before your buy.

If you already have a pet and wonder what kind of dog would get along with your cat, bird or whatever. Here is a list of some dogs that are usually good with other pets (notice I said usually, there are no guarantees.)

The generally good ones are: Affenpinscher, American Cocker Spaniel, American Eskimo Dog, Australian Shepherd, Basset Hound, Bearded Collie, Bichon Frise, Boston Terrier, Bulldog, Dachshund, Gordon Setter, Keeshond, and there are many more.

Some dogs will get along with other types of pets if they are raised with them from puppy-hood. Among those are: American Bulldog, American Pit Bull Terrier, Cairn Terrier, Chihuahua, English Springer Spaniel, Great Dane, Mastiff and many more.

Now there are some that are not trustworthy with other pets, (what comes to my mind is a picture of a Greyhound and a bunny.) Here is a short list of some of the breeds: Bichon/Yorkie, Bull terrier, Dingo, Fox Terrier, Irish Terrier, Lhasa Apso, Miniature Fox Terrier, Rat Terrier, Silky Terrier and more. I believe the Terrier breed was bred by the English to hunt rodents and small prey and that may be why they do not get along with other pets.

In order to cover all categories I will mention some breeds that do not get along with anything except another dog and I would be careful there, too. Afghan Hounds will start our list and I will continue with Australian Cattle Dog, Basenji, Beagle, Border Collie, Greyhound, Jack Russell Terrier, Parson Russell Terrier, Rhodesian Ridgeback, Samoyed, Whippet and Weimaraner, however there are more.

If you are looking for a dog that will be great with your children, I will cover some of those, too. The better dogs are: American Cocker Spaniel, American Mastiff, American Bulldog, Basset Hound, Bloodhound, English Setter, Golden Retriever, Great Dane, Gordon Setter, Keeshond, Labrador Retriever, Pug, Saint Bernard, and there are others.

Some of the best dogs for older children (children that will not tease the dogs are:) Alaskan Malamute, Border Collie, Cairn Terrier, Chihuahua, Chow Chow, Greyhound, Jack Russell Terrier, Maltese, Miniature Poodle, Pekingese, Pekepoo, Pomeranian, Shih-Tzu, and of course there are more.

There truly is a "dog" for every lifestyle, you just need to take your time and search for it.

The Internet is a great source for finding information on breeds. There are many breeders that are willing to help you find the perfect pet.

Dogs can be a challenge. You need patience and you need to be willing to give of your time and love. Do not consider a dog, if you are not willing to take complete responsibility for it. Being a dog parent requires time, money, patience, love and respect for another life. If you are up to the responsibility, a dog will give you so much more in return.

Image : http://www.flickr.com

Group: Toy

Weight: 7-9lbs

Height: 9-11.5 inches

History

The Affenpinscher was originally from Germany in the 16th century. People refer to them as "monkey dogs" because of their physical appearance and expression. The breed has a strong character, and a very sporting instinct. This made this breed particularly useful in destroying rats.

Characteristics

The Affenpinscher is well balanced and sturdy. They have a great deal of boldness and courage, and they also feature a lot of charisma. They are also quite agile. Affenpinchers are very curious and playful, and are a good choice for future dog owners that do not have a lot of experience. Affenpinchers can also be very strong willed, stubborn and suspicious towards other people. In general Affenpinchers do get along fine with other pets, as well as children. They are not recommended for families with very young and energetic children though. Affenpinchers can be very demanding and therefore need to be showed who the boss is.

Temperament

Affenpinchers are a very sensitive breed, but they are very energetic and intelligent. Training can be difficult at stages, as this breed has a stubborn streak. They can also be difficult to house break. This breed makes very good watchdogs, and they are also very good exercise companions. They are very curious, and smart. Affenpinchers tend to become aggressive and fearless toward anyone that they see as a threat. These dogs love to entertain and be with their families.

Care

These dogs do not require a lot of grooming. It is advised to brush their coats once or twice a week to keep it in a good condition, and also to minimize shedding. It is also important to not cut their coats short, as it will spoil their harsh coat for many years to come. Affenpinchers do sometimes have stray hairs that grow in the corners of their eyes - this may cause irritation and should be removed immediately.

Training

Many owners find that Affenpinchers are quite difficult to housetrain. In most cases crate training is recommended for this breed. They possess a very controlling attitude, and it is important to be firm and consistent with them in training. Affenpinchers are quick to learn, but they do not respond well to repetition. It is important to present them with a variety of tasks; otherwise they will become bored easily.