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Barbet Possibly a relative of the poodle and the puli, this dog was bred as a retriever to fetch birds from the water. A fairly rare breed, his coat can be a variety of colors including black, gray or white as well as chestnut. |
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Basenji If you’re looking for a dog that doesn’t bark, the Basenji just might be the answer. These dogs, which originated in Africa, are especially known because they yodel rather than a bark…really! |
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Basset Hound Easily recognized by their short legs and long ears, these dogs were first used for hunting. |
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Beagle Fun loving and friendly, this family dog became popular in part thanks to the cartoon character "Snoopy" and rose in fame with the 2008 win of Westminster Dog Show by "Uno," the first beagle to win best in show. |
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Bearded Collie Although they might first be mistaken for a sheepdog, the Bearded Collie (sometimes called a Beardie) is part of the collie family and traces its heritage to that of a herding dog used to tend sheep and cattle. |
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Beauceron This French herding dog is one of the breeds used to create the Doberman and still resembles the better known breed today.
Photo credit: Pleple2000, Wikipedia |
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Bedlington Terrier Although this dog is part of the terrier family, you might have to look twice at him to make sure he's not a lamb! His curly coat and lamb-shaped head make him resemble a young sheep.
Photo credit: Pleple2000, Wikipedia |
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Belgian Laekenois One of the Belgian shepherds (a family that includes four varieties), these handsome dogs were first bred as sheep herders.
Photo credit: by sannse at the City of Birmingham Championship Dog Show; Wikipedia |
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Belgian Malinois One of the four types of Belgian Shepherds, the Malinois is sometimes classified as a separate breed. It resembles a smaller version of the German Shepherd. |
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Belgian Sheepdog or Groenendael. Known as the Belgian Sheepdog in the US, this dog is one of the four varieties of Belgian Shepherds and has black hair.
Photo credit: photo by Sannse; Wikipedia |
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Belgian Tervuren. The fourth type of Belgian Shepherd generally has a black mask and long yet fairly thin hair. |
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Bergamasco. Easily recognized by its matted, felted hair, this dog originates in the Swiss Alps.
Photo credit: photo taken by Sannse at the City of Birmingham Championship Dog Show, 30th August 2003. photo imported from the English Wikipedia |
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Bernese Mountain Dog. First bred in the Swiss canton of Berne, this large, tri-color dog were first used as farm dogs. Today they're affectionate family dogs. |
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Bichon Frise These small white dogs is probably a descendent of the Barbet or French water dog. These 9-11-inch dogs are happy family pets; their white coat requires grooming. |
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Bloodhound. Best known for their use in police work, the bloodhound can track a cold trail. Easily identified by their long ears and drooping face, the bloodhound should be watched for signs of bloat, the leading cause of death among these gentle dogs. |
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Border Collie This energetic herder is a favorite with those interested in dog agility. Considered the most intelligent of the dog breeds, he is best suited for active families and not for those with young children since the border collie still likes to "herd" his charges! |
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Border Terrier This charming little terrier was first bred to hunt rats and fox. Today he's a scrappy little terrier who loves family life but can be testy with other dogs on occasion. |
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Borzoi Also known as the Russian Wolfhound, the beautiful Borzoi is a sighthound. This breed can top 100 pounds and are athletic although not good as watchdogs. |
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Boston Terrier Originating in the US, the Boston Terrier is usually seen in classic black and white although brindle can be seen as well. Like other short-nosed breeds, the Boston Terrier can have difficulties in the heat. |
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Bouvier des Flandres This large dog, often exceeding 100 pounds, was first used as a farm dog and today serves as a police dog as well as a family pet. |
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Boxer An all-time favorite with dog lovers, this playful breed needs daily stimulation, both mentally and physically, and enjoys running. This dog would make a great jogging companion and must be active through daily walks on the leash. |
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Briard The Briard traces his heritage to France, dating back to the 1300s. After the French Revolution the breed was used less as a guard dog and more as a sheep herder. This breed can tolerate cool temperatures but does not handle hot climates very well. |
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Brittany Once known as the Brittany Spaniel, this 30-40 pound dog may trace its roots back to the Argoat forests of Brittany. This gundog can point game and enjoy plenty of exercise. |
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Brussels Griffon This small dog weighs just six to 12 pounds and were first bred to control the rat population. Today they're family pets, ones best suited for indoor living. |
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Bull Terrier Three words can easily sum up the personality and temperament of the Bull Terrier: assertive, comical, and exuberant. These dogs have extremely high energy levels and are considered to be a bit on the mischievous side, like that of a cat. |
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Bulldog Despite his angry looking face, these dogs are generally amiable and mellow, well behaved around children and thriving on pleasing his owners. Although he can be protective of his owner and a little aggressive towards strange dogs, the Bulldog makes a great family companion. |
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Bullmastiff Most members of this breed are quiet, gentle, and laid-back. Once startled, though, they are fearless and can be quite a threat. Bullmastiff are highly rated for their watchdog and protection ability. They are good with children but should be raised with them starting with puppyhood. These dogs can also be a bit aggressive towards strange dogs and other animals. |
