Tag: Dog breeds

Best Dog Breeds For Runners

Are you a runner? Do you want a furry, four-legged running partner keeping up with you as you two stride gracefully down the city streets, or though winding paths in the woods?

The good news is most dogs love to run. And, most dogs thrive on the increased exercise. 

But, some dog breeds are better runners than others

Not all dogs are built to jog. Some love long distance running. Others thrive on sprinting. Others like nothing more strenuous than a stroll in the park. 

How do you know which to choose? 

First, what type of runner are you? Jogger? Beach sprinter? Love high-speed running?

Here are the 5 Best Dog Breeds for Runners

Weimaraners 

These dogs love to jog because they are built to run long distances. They are well muscled, energetic, and thrive mentally and physically on lots of exercise. 

Greyhounds

Sprinters. These dogs were bred to race. You may find one that likes jogging, but most will love to accompany you on short, intense burst sprinting. 

Pit Bulls 

Sprinters and short distance runners. Because they are heavily muscled and built low to the ground, Pitfalls excel at sprinting and fast jogging for short distances. If you want to run the 50, 100, or 200, a Pit bull will love every step of the race. Longer distances can be tough on their joints. They’re built like shot-putters, and you don’t see many shot-putters running marathons.

Golden, Yellow, and Black Labradors 

These breeds like both long, slow jogs, and shorter, more intense sprint-type runs. Labs are always one of the most popular breeds because they’re very affectionate, well-behaved, and loyal. But, they can be destructive if not exercised enough. They are a working breed, so they need lots of exercise. This makes them the perfect running companion!

German Shepard

This powerful breed loves exercise. Because they love sprinting, jogging, and everything in-between, the German Shepard is one of the best dog breeds for runners of all kinds. But, make sure you intend to exercise a lot. The GSD is a working breed, so they require much more exercise than many anticipate. If you are doing near-daily road work, the GSD is for you!

Beagles

Sprinting, agility training. Beagles tend to have short legs and are built low to the ground. Many associate this hound breed with laziness. But, they are actually very high energy, and one of the most agile dog breeds in the world. If you are a sprinter, the beagle is your kind of dog.

If you are an athlete that likes to do agility training, your Beagle will train right along side of you. But, make sure you do all running in an enclosed area. The Beagle’s nose can get him in trouble because they are natural wanderers, and run surprisingly fast. 

12 Dog Breeds That Are Often Also Skilled Escape Artists

There is no feeling like the moment you realize your dog is lost. The immediate panic is followed by the fear that your furry companion will never be found. And while most pup parents will – unfortunately – experience this feeling at some point in their life, some dogs take it to another level and are actually skilled escape artists.

Dogs run away for many reasons. Some become bored, lonely, or suffer from separation anxiety while others run away because they are afraid of a storm or fireworks. Working with a trainer based on your pup’s behavior can help keep your pup safe and sound at home.

Nonetheless, there are certain breeds that have the escape artist gene. Here are 12 of them.

Labrador Retrievers

According to FidoFinder.com, Lab’s received the “most likely to get lost” honor. This happy-go-lucky, energetic, curious breed just wants to be around people. Their curiosity often leads them away from homes in search of other people – especially if they suffer from separation anxiety.

Chihuahuas

Despite their small size, Chihuahuas actually require quite a bit of exercise, attention and training. Because some Chihuahua parents don’t know this, this breed can become bored due to lack of exercise and flee their home. Their love of running certainly doesn’t help either.

Boxers

This breed is known for their exceptional jumping skills. Combine that with their playful nature and you’ve got yourself an escape artist. They even have their own term for escaping: “Boxer Bolting”.

Huskies

Probably one of the most notorious escape artists are Siberian Huskies. This breed was literally bred to run and if they don’t get enough in at home, they’ll seek it elsewhere. They also love to dig and climb – the winning combination for escape artists.

Beagles

These scent hounds love to follow their instinct – the nose – all the way out of the yard. Their strong desire to track a scent makes them the perfect escape artist.

Jack Russell Terriers

This speedy breed may be small, but they’re powerful and spunky. Jack Russell Terriers need plenty of exercise to be happy. Plus, their strong prey drive causes them to bolt at the mere sight of a squirrel across the street.

Staffordshire Bull Terriers

Known for their jumping ability, Staffordshire Bull Terriers need plenty of exercise to keep them happy. And don’t think a tall fence will keep them in, this is one breed that loves to dig and jump.

German Shepherds

German Shepherds were bred to herd and have a strong instinct to chase other animals. They are a stubborn breed that also loves to dig – a perfect combination for a true escape artist.

Golden Retrievers

You may not think Golden Retrievers want to escape often – especially since they are a the tried and true “family dog” – but this breed was bred to accompany hunters. They require a lot of exercise to stay happy and if they don’t get it, they’ll go looking for it elsewhere, right out of your yard.

Cocker Spaniels

Thanks to this breeds loyalty and devotion to their humans, it makes them prone to separation anxiety. This can lead to escaping in an attempt to find their owners. Furthermore, their origin as retrievers has them longing to run after squirrels or rabbits.

Dachshunds

Bred to chase badgers into underground dens, Dachshunds are excellent diggers. They are super aware of their surroundings and will run after smaller animals in an instant. Dachshunds are extremely protective of their owners and stubborn, which can lead to separation anxiety and a non-stop attempt to find their human.

Poodles

Although the Poodle is extremely intelligent and trainable, they also require a lot of physical and mental exercise in order to be happy. They also have a predisposition to separation anxiety which causes them to escape and look for their owners.

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Even if you don’t have a breed on this list, any dog can escape and become lost. Always make sure you keep your dog on a leash or in a secure backyard and never leave them outside alone.

The Top 10 Most Popular Dog Breeds In America

We’re not biased, but we do know that there are some dog breeds that rank higher in the dog lover’s playbook than others. Every breed is different and seeing the natural beauty in each breed is something very special.

The proper ways of a Poodle, the elongated and almost out of place ears on a French Bulldog, the gorgeous coat on a Golden Retriever, the face on a Bulldog only a mother could love. They’re all so uniquely different!

From Bulldogs to Poodles, here’s a list of this year’s top 10 pure bred dog breeds according to the American Kennel Club. Check to see if your favorite breed made the list!

Boxers

Fun loving, bright and energetic

Rottweilers

Faithful, loving and a guardian

Poodles

Proud, active, intelligent

Yorkshire Terriers

Active and affectionate

French Bulldogs

Lively, smart, versatile

Beagles

Cheerful, friendly, eccentric

Bulldogs

Relaxed, courageous, outgoing

Golden Retrievers

Smart, friendly, loyal

German Shepherd Dogs

Intelligent, confident, brave

Labrador Retriever

Friendly, active, outgoing

8 Giant Dog Breeds That Might Be Bigger Than You

It’s not often you see a giant dog walking down the street. But when you do, they’re impossible to miss. These gentle giants are so large – they may even be bigger than you! Here are 8 of the world’s largest dog breeds.

Irish Wolfhound

The Irish Wolfhound is the tallest dog breed and were originally bred to hunt wolves. They have since evolved into a quite gentle dog. Irish Wolfhound’s are true gentle giants that love nothing more than to be with their family. Their average weight is between 115-180 pounds!

Leonberger

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This lion-like dog was named after where they originated from and has an average weight of around 120-180 pounds. With enough attention, exercise, and space, the Leonberger makes an amazing family companion. Plus their deep bark makes for a great watchdog.

Great Dane

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Next to the Irish Wolfhound, the Great Dane is among the tallest dog breeds. They were originally known as the German Mastiff and bred to be a guard dog. But today, they prefer to chill out on the couch – if they can fit! Despite their large size, they are one of the best-natured breeds and great around children.

Saint Bernard

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The Saint Bernard was originally bred as an avalanche rescue and guard dog in Switzerland. Their peaceful and serene temperament helped calm the people they rescued. Today, the Saint Bernard remains a calm and gentle breed weighing in at 140-265 pounds!

Newfoundland

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Newfoundland’s are a hardworking breed that were originally bred to help pull nets and haul wood for fisherman. Today, they remain hardworking but are also sweet-natured and gentle. They can weight up to 150 pounds and make wonderful family companions.

Bullmastiff

Bullmastiff’s may have an intimidating appearance, but they are actually giant softies who love to hang out with their family. They weigh around 100-130 pounds and will make a great watchdog thanks to their size and looks.

Greater Swiss Mountain Dog

The Greater Swiss Mountain Dog is the cousin of the Bernese Mountain Dog. Like their cousin, they make wonderful family companions. Greater Swiss Bernese Mountain Dogs are a gentle breed and get their size from their original job as farm dogs. They can weigh anywhere from 100-155 pounds.

Great Pyrenees

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A true protector, the Great Pyrenees makes a great family companion and watchdog. They have a gentle disposition and absolutely adore their family. A Great Pyrenees tend to weight between 85-160 pounds.

If you’re looking to add a giant dog to your family, consider one of these eight breeds. Though their size and weight may be intimidating, they are actually big softies just looking for a family to love.

Why Microchips Alone Are Not Enough To Keep Pets Safe

Keeping your dog safe is every dog lover’s number one priority. 

Countless books, websites, and training guides stress the importance of making sure your pet always has their ID tags attached to their collar. And, most recommend microchipping your dog. 

Why Microchip Your Dog?

A tiny chip, about the size of a grain of rice, is injected under the skin around your dog’s neck (between their shoulders). This chip can be scanned by veterinarians, shelters, rescues, and other doggie allies. 

Each chip has an electromagnetic transponder with a code – kind of like the barcode you see on products – that is registered with different lost pet finding services. Home again and Avid are two of the biggest. Before putting the chip into your dog, it is scanned, validated, then scanned after implanting in your dog’s skin to make sure it worked. 

Because of it’s ability to be easily read and help identify your lost dog, microchipping has become very popular. And, it sounds like a great idea. 

The Shortcomings of Microchips

The biggest reason that microchips fail your dog is that they need to be scanned in order to work. 

If your pup gets lost, then is picked up by animal control, a helpful neighbor, or simply wanders into a friendly shelter, this is great. They can be scanned, and you’ll be notified quickly that your dog has been located. 

An Unfound Dog Remains Unfound

However, if you’ve lost a dog, you know that the chances of them being randomly found is just short of a miracle. 

Dogs can roam enormous amounts of territory in a short time. 

Couple that with the dangers presented by:

  • High traffic areas
  • Dog thieves 
  • Countless places to hide
  • Vast amounts of wooded areas
  • Speeding, Texting-and-Driving drivers

and any hope that your dog will be found and scanned diminishes greatly. This is why microchips fail more often than they succeed. 

GPS Trackers Are Better Than Microchips

Now, imagine your dog slips out of your yard. You’re away at work. When you come home, you can’t find your furbaby!

Instead of drawing up Lost Dog posters, or posting your pup’s info on social media… or praying that they’ll be found and scanned, imagine if there was a way to know exactly where they are…

Now there is: GPS Dog tracking device. 

It can:

  • Track your pet’s location – accurate to 10ft!
  • Monitor your pet’s activity level – know if they’re on the move
  • Read your pet’s body temperature – if they escape in the cold, or if they’ve been injured, you’ll know if they’re body temp is in the healthy range 
  • Transmit your dog’s location, including turn-by-turn directions, to your cellphone

12 Dog Breeds Whose Names You’re Probably Pronouncing Wrong

Like certain human names, some dog breeds are quite difficult to pronounce. And when you mispronounce one? The worst! But Nuzzle is here to help. Here are 12 dog breeds you’re most likely pronouncing wrong – and the correct way to say them.

Shih Tzu

One of the most widely mispronounced dog breed names is this pint size, fluffy breed. While you may have heard it pronounced “s**t sue” it’s actually pronounced shee-dzoo.

Bichon Frise

Another commonly mispronounced breed is this adorable ball of fur. There are technically two ways to pronounce this one: Bee-shon Freeze or Bee-shawn Free-zey, the latter being the traditional French pronunciation.

Dogue de Bordeaux

This French Mastiff’s name looks more difficult than it actually is. “Dogue” is pronounced like “Vogue” and “Bordeaux” is pronounced like the wine. So, it’s Dohg-duu-Bor-doe.

Norwich Terrier

Though this may not seem too difficult to pronounce, there are actually two different ways to say this cuties name. Nor-Witch or Norridge (the traditional English version) are both correct.

Bernese Mountain Dog

This one isn’t so much about the spelling but more about the fact that it sounds similar to people from “Burma”. Bernese Mountain Dogs are actually from the Swiss Alps and their name is pronounced like “Bur-Nees” not “Bur-Mees”.

Kuvasz

In this Hungarian sheep herding dog’s name, the “z” is silent, so it’s pronounced Koo-vah”.

Petit Basset Griffon Vendeen

Just looking at this name may make you want to bury your head in the sand – or at least avoid saying it at all costs! But with enough practice, you’ll become an expert in no time. Just keep practicing, Puh-tee Bah-say Gree-fohn Von-day-uhn over and over again!

Portuguese Podengo Pequeno

The last word may throw people off on this breeds name as it’s actually pronounced Por-cha-geez Poe-den-go Pe-ken-o – not “Pe-ken-yo”.

Lagotto Romagnolo

Hailing from a sub-region in Italy, this Italian dog’s name is pronounced La-got-toe Rrrro-man-yolo and means “Lake Dog of Romagna”.

Berger Picard

Though it looks like “Burger Picard”, the correct way to pronounce this French herding dog’s name is Bare-zhay Pee-carr.

Cesky Terrier

This interesting-looking pup bears a resemblance to Schnauzers and originated in Czechoslovakia. The correct way to pronounce their name is “Chess-Key Terrier”.

Pekingese

If you pronounce this long-haired beauty Pee-kuh-neez, you’re technically right. But, there is a lesser-known version – Pee-king-eez – that is often considered incorrect. However, this breed was named after the Chinese capital city “Peking” (now known as Beijing), so that version is perfectly acceptable.

So next time you spot one of these pups, impress your friends and fellow dog lovers with the correct pronunciation of these dog breeds!

5 Best Dog Breeds For Apartment Renters

Space the final frontier, or the lack of space. I lived in a 600 square foot apartment for 5 years. They are 5 of only 8 years of my entire life that I didn’t have a dog. I’ve always had Golden Retrievers as an FYI. I always thought that you needed to have a ton of space to have a dog in an apartment but there are many dog breeds that thrive in apartments.

In fact, all dogs can become used to apartments, if you are able to give them the exercise they need and crave. We at Nuzzle do however think it is a little easier for some dogs to become used to the smaller space. These are our Top 5 dog breeds for apartment renters.

5 Best Dog Breeds for Apartment Renters

  1. Shih Tzu

Shih tzus are one of the best dogs for apartment living, even in very small apartments.

Their tiny body size and sweet temperament make them ideal apartment dwellers.

They are friendly, so this makes them one of the least yappy of the small breeds, a huge issue if you have neighbors that complain about barking.

Shih tzus do need a lot of maintenance for their hair, but other than that, they’re typically happy with one long walk per day.

  1. Great Dane

A dog that huge in an apartment?

Yes!

Great Danes are huge, powerful dogs, but they are true gentle giants. The breed is protective, but friendly. And, because they seem to be aware of their size, they only bark when necessary.

Great Danes are easily trained, and love a good walk, but don’t need an inordinate amount of exercise. This makes them a great apartment companion.

Note: if you have a very small apartment, the Great Dane is a bad option. Their size (100 – 140+lbs) requires that they have enough space to spread out a bit, and close-quarters living is not for them. But, if you have an average or large place, the Great Dane will thrive.

  1. Greyhound

Another big dog on the list.

Though they’re known for racing, most greyhounds just need a long walk and a place to lay down.

IF you adopt an adult or senior Greyhound, especially one rescued from a dog track, they’ll be thrilled to sprawl out on your couch, living the good life.

And, the best news for apartment living: Greyhounds are not big on barking.

Laid Back Dog Breeds

  1. Basset Hound

Basset Hounds are much more laid back than their Beagle cousins. Their larger size (they can be 70+lbs, though they’re not very tall), and work-only-when-necessary temperament slows them down and makes them great apartment dogs.

The Basset Hound does need a solid walk every day, not only for mental health, but because this breed can become very over-weight if you’re not careful.

But, if you’re looking for a Netflix-binge partner, look no further than the laziest of all hounds.

  1. Pug

The tiny pug seems made for apartment living. They’re small, loyal, and not yappy. The pug is known to be extremely loyal, and may follow you around your apartment constantly.

They can live in even the smallest of apartments, comfortably.

As with all breeds, the pug appreciates a daily walk, but is going to be thrilled when you get home and head for the couch.

Popular Dog Breeds For Seniors

Having a dog provides many health benefits to their human counterparts: decreased blood pressure, increase in oxytocin – the feel-good brain chemical, lower stress levels, increased physical health, and more. But, what about dogs for seniors? Isn’t a dog too much work? Doesn’t the training and exercise and clean up outweigh these health benefits? Does it make sense for seniors to get a dog?

NO, in fact, multiple studies have shown that dog ownership increases lifespan. It increases “good” health markers, and provides loving companionship for older adults. Even in assisted living housing, dog ownership has been shown to have a myriad of positive effects.

Being smart about which breed to choose is key. And, adopting an adult or senior dog cuts out much of the problems associated with puppies. These can include high energy, house-breaking, behavior issues, destructiveness, etc. With older dogs, those problems are long gone. They need less physical activity – a good walk or two will bring great benefit the dog, and their human.

With that in mind, which breeds are best for seniors?

  1. French Bulldog

French Bulldogs are not overly athletic, and are rarely known to be high energy. A 20-minute walk per day is enough to keep them fit mentally and physically. They’re also affectionate dogs, and will happily keep you company while watching TV, reading the paper, or just sitting on the porch relaxing.

  1. Maltese

Maltese are on the small end of the size spectrum. Though they’re long-haired, if you keep their hair clipped, they’ll shed very little, so clean-up won’t be much of an issue.

The Maltese is not high-energy, and is bred to be extremely attentive to their human. This makes them a great companion dog because they really do become part of the family, and can be useful for seniors that live alone. Maltese are often used in assisted living facilities because they can be trained to bark in emergency situations, alerting medical staff that help is needed.

  1. Beagles

Young beagles can be a real handful. But, senior beagles make fantastic companions, love walks, make great watch dogs, and are perfect for the more fit-minded seniors.

Beagles are extremely food-motivated, so you may have to lock away the goodies. But, they’re also extremely loyal. And, like the Maltese, will sound the alarm when something goes wrong.

Beagles are best in houses, rather than assisted living. While older beagles don’t howl as much as their younger pack mates, they can still let the neighborhood know when something is amiss.

  1. Poodles

The poodle has remained one of the most popular dog breeds, consistently, since World War II. They are especially popular with seniors because of their even temperament, willingness to be trained, and loyalty. Miniature poodles are small in stature and make a great companion for apartments, assisted-living quarters, and any home.

Toy poodles have become more popular, but remember that they come with some health risks (they’re fragile and can be injured easily). Both the toy and miniature are ok with one walk a day and lots of affection.

5 Best Dog Breeds For Children

Having a dog can help teach your children valuable lessons about responsibility, how to care for something, and how to give and receive unconditional love.

Some dog breeds are better with small children than others. Here are the 5 best dog breeds for children:

Boxer

Boxers are very playful, and are known to love children. They have a strong pack mentality, and are known to be protective of their child friends. 

Boxers are big, so they’re best with kids who are large enough to handle a little rough housing and play. But, Boxers are trainable and can be taught to play gently even with small children. 

Beagle

Beagles are almost never aggressive. They are playful. And, they very tolerant of kids sometimes too-rough behavior. 

Beagles are very energetic, love to play, walk, and chase a ball. 

Because of their sweet temperament, Beagles are the perfect dog for kids of all ages. 

Mastiff

These gentle giants scare a lot of people, but aggression in Mastiffs is almost unheard of. Simply, Mastiffs seem to be aware of their size, and know that they have little need to bark or bite. 

These dogs form a strong family bond, and will be very protective of their pack. 

Labrador Retriever

Labs are one of the most gentle dog breeds on Earth. They are always eager to please and rarely aggressive. Like the Beagle, they are tolerant of behaviors that would set other breeds off. 

Labs love to play. But, they also love to sleep next to pack members. They are high energy and love exercise, which makes them a great choice for high energy kids. 

Newfoundland

Another gentle giant. These dogs are “work horses,” but that desire to work can be channeled into companionship for children. They love to pull kids through the snow on a sled, run next to them their bikes, and help them explore the yard.

Newfoundlands are incredibly affectionate. They are also known to be goofy, which makes them a great friend for small children. 

Don’t forget about mixed breeds!

A dog doesn’t have to be purebred to be great with your kids. In fact, mixed breeds often have the best attributes of multiple breeds. If you are considering rescuing a mixed dog, meet with them to see their temperament. In general, most dogs are good with kids, so you can’t go wrong. 

The 10 Smartest Dog Breeds

We all know dogs are smart creatures. But have you ever noticed that some seem to be smarter than others? Like human intelligence, dog intelligence occurs in many different forms. Certain breeds have particular inherit qualities and are bred to be more intelligent in certain areas.

For example, if a dog is bred to retrieve, herd, or hunt, they are more likely to be eager to work, quick on their feet, and more willing to please you. Livestock guard dogs or scent hounds, on the other hand, can sometimes seem dense or distracted.

So, while certain dog breeds are smarter in particular areas, all dogs have the capability to be trained. Some might just take a bit longer to catch on!

Stanley Coren, a neuropsychologist and author of “The Intelligence of Dogs”, uses trainability to assess a dog’s intelligence. He used research from over 200 professional dog obedience judges on more than 100 breeds. The judges scored the breeds on obedience/working tests. These ten dog breeds learned commands in no more than five repetitions and obeyed these commands at least 95% of the time.

Border Collie

The Border Collie is often thought of as a workaholic and is the world’s best sheep herder. They have extraordinary instinct, extreme intelligence, and a strong work ethic.

Poodle

Poodle’s are smart and active. They were originally bred as water retrievers. Poodle’s are a devoted family dog and make excellent companions.

German Shepherd

The German Shepherd is a wonderful family companion along with a highly respectable guard, police, and military dog. They were bred to herd.

Golden Retriever

Golden Retriever’s are eager to please and highly intelligent. They were originally bred as a hunting companion and work exceptionally well as guide dogs as well as search-and-rescue helpers.

Doberman Pinscher

This is a breed known for their speed and stamina. They were bred as guardians and also work as police and war dogs.

Shetland Sheepdog

Also known as the “Sheltie”, the Shetland Sheepdog is a miniature working Collie. They have a keen intelligence and are excellent herders.

Labrador Retriever

Labrador Retrievers are very social dogs. They are also extremely gentle and highly intelligent. They make a wonderful family and sporting dog.

Papillon

This is an alert and happy breed. They are not known to be shy or aggressive. Though small, they are an energetic, highly intelligent breed.

Rottweiler

This breed is happiest when it has a job to do. They are powerful and hearty yet make a devoted companion. They make excellent police, service, and therapy dogs as well as herders and obedience competitors.

Australian Cattle Dog

Australian Cattle Dogs are very intelligent and energetic. They love when they have a job to do such as obedience, agility, or herding.

Although these are the “smartest” dog breeds, that doesn’t necessarily mean they are the “easiest”. Chris Redenbach, a dog trainer based in Atlanta said that having a smart dog “is like having a smart kid. They’re always into something and will get into trouble if they are bored”. (Pets.WebMD).

Highly intelligent dogs require a lot of time, training, and patience as they get bored easily. They tend to be more energetic than less intelligent dogs, requiring more time and training. However, many dogs that don’t appear to be very intelligent, may just be bred to be more independent.

So, it’s not necessarily a matter of “smart versus dumb” dogs, it’s more about breed, instinct, and – most importantly – training. Even the most stubborn dog can learn with enough training!

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