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The dog (Canis lupus familiaris,) is a domesticated subspecies of the gray wolf, a member of the Canidae family of the order Carnivora. The term is used for both feral and pet varieties. The domestic dog has been one of the most widely kept working and companion animals in human history. The domestic dog has a predisposition to exhibit a social intelligence that is uncommon in the animal world. Dogs are capable of learning in a number of ways, such as through simple reinforcement (e.g. classical or operant conditioning) and by observation. Here are my favorite top five Breeds that is most recognize and loved by me, Shih Tzu, Yorkshire Terrier, Bichon Frise, Maltese and Staffordshire Bull Terrier.
The
Shih Tzu
is an ancient breed originating from China, but unlike most dogs, the
Shih Tzu was not bred for working. His only duty is to be a loving pet and
family companion. Standing only 8 to 11 inches at the shoulder and weighing 9 to
16 pounds, the Shih Tzu is a small but tough little dog.
The
Yorkshire Terrier, well known for long flowing tresses, is a tiny tough
breed originally used to hunt rats. This popular, active pet was one of the top
10 breeds for the year 2007.
A
cheerful, happy dog, the
Bichon
Frise is small and sturdy with a dark-eyed inquisitive expression and a
plumed tail it carries merrily over the back. The breed is often compared to a
cotton ball due to its curled double coat, which consists of a textured outer
coat and a silky undercoat. The coat must be white, but may have shadings of
buff, cream or apricot around the ears or on the body. They are happy, playful,
intelligent and mischievous. The Bichon is happiest when around people. Bichom
Frises are very obedient if training is started early and continued
consistently.
The
Maltese dog breed
has a long and distinguished history. As the most dramatic member of the toy
breed group, the Maltese's long white flowing coat may have been the reason he
was a favorite of Queen Elizabeth I. The most striking characteristic of the
Maltese is the long, silky, white hair coat. The breed is tiny, standing 8 to 10
inches high at the shoulder and weighing only 4 to 6 pounds, but he has the
appearance of elegance and grace. The neck is long and the rounded head is held
high. The muzzle is moderate in size and the ears are set low. The hair on top
of the head is typically divided in the center and gathered into two topknots,
secured with rubber bands.
The
Staffordshire
Bull Terrier is a medium-sized, stocky, muscular dog with athletic ability.
They have a broad head, defined occipital muscles, a relatively short foreface,
dark round eyes and a wide mouth with a clean scissor-like bite (the top
incisors slightly overlap the bottom incisors). The ears are small. Although
individual differences in personality exist, common traits exist throughout the
Staffords. Due to its breeding, the modern dog is known for its character of
indomitable courage, high intelligence, and tenacity. This, coupled with its
affection for its friends, and children in particular, its off-duty
quietness and trustworthy stability, makes it a foremost all-purpose dog. It has
been said that "No breed is more loving with its family"
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