The Boxweiler, a mix of Boxer and Rottweiler, is a loving, loyal, and intelligent breed. Known for their affectionate and energetic nature, they thrive in larger homes with yards, as they need plenty of space and mental stimulation. These dogs are friendly with all family sizes and make excellent guard dogs without being overly aggressive. If you’re looking for an energetic, alert, and devoted companion, the Boxweiler could be the perfect fit for you!
The Spanish Water Dog, or Perro de Agua Español, is a versatile, medium-sized breed originally bred for herding and water tasks in Spain. Known for their curly, water-resistant coat, these intelligent and loyal dogs make energetic companions for active families. They thrive on physical exercise and mental stimulation, requiring constant interaction with their owners. Due to their strong bond with humans, they may not do well in homes where people are often away, making them ideal for engaged, active families.
The Wirehaired Pointing Griffon, or Korthals Griffon, is a medium-sized sporting dog known for its excellent hunting skills and long lifespan of 12 to 15 years. Bright, playful, and affectionate, they thrive in active homes with space to exercise. While great with families, they don’t do well in apartments or when left alone for long periods. This energetic breed will be a loyal companion if you offer plenty of physical and mental stimulation.
The Czechoslovakian Vlcak, or Czech Wolfdog, is a German Shepherd-Carpathian Wolf crossbreed developed in 1955. Initially bred as attack dogs, they combine the wolf’s pack mentality with the German Shepherd’s affectionate nature, forming strong family bonds. High energy, intelligence, and a need for leadership make them unsuitable for novice owners. These athletic dogs thrive in homes with large yards, requiring ample exercise. Despite their wolf-like look, Vlcaks are loyal and loving but need early socialization.
The Treeing Walker Coonhound descended from American and English Foxhounds, is a medium-to-large hound bred for the reeing game. Known for their agility, scent-tracking, and hunting skills, they are intelligent, trainable, and excel in obedience. Friendly and pleasant, they bond well with families, including children and pets, making them excellent companions. However, their vocal nature may not suit apartment living. These affectionate dogs thrive on human interaction and love engaging in mentally and physically stimulating activities.
The Saluki, an ancient sighthound from the Middle East once revered as a gift from Allah, is a graceful, medium-to-large breed with a slender body and silky coat. Found in colors like cream, fawn, and black, they are active dogs who thrive on walks, runs, and hikes. Gentle and intelligent, Salukis can be reserved with strangers but are alert and loyal. While sometimes stubborn, they respond well to positive, reward-based training with short, engaging sessions.
The Shih-Poo is a small-to-medium-sized mix of the Shih Tzu and Toy Poodle, known for its affectionate and friendly personality. With a hypoallergenic, curly, or wavy coat, they come in various colors and vary in appearance. Shih-Poos are intelligent, adaptable, and well-suited to both apartment and house living. They enjoy playtime and cuddling, making them great companions for families or individuals. Regular grooming is necessary to keep their coat healthy and prevent matting.
The Cairn Terrier, one of Scotland’s original terriers, was bred for hunting foxes and badgers. Known for its foxy expression, this lively and alert breed is playful and great with children. However, they have a strong instinct to dig and require regular mental and physical exercise. Without proper leadership, they may become destructive, bark excessively, and display stubborn behavior. Intelligent and eager to please, Cairn Terriers respond well to training with praise and rewards.
The Scottish Terrier is an independent, intelligent, and sometimes stubborn breed, known for their dignified seriousness and sensitivity to praise or blame. While they’re not built for jogging, they’re excellent walking companions and great watchdogs, with a strong bark that deters intruders. Though small, they excel in agility and earth dog trials, and are perfect for keeping your yard free of rodents—though they may leave a few holes behind from their digging!