English Toy Spaniel

Characteristics
The English Toy Spaniel is a compact, cobby and essentially square toy dog possessed of a short-nosed, domed head, a merry and affectionate demeanor and a silky, flowing coat. His compact, sturdy body and charming temperament, together with his rounded head, lustrous dark eye, and well cushioned face, proclaim him a dog of distinction and character. The important characteristics of the breed are exemplified by the head.

Owning
The English Toy Spaniel's coat is not known for excessive shedding, but it should be brushed several times a week to maintain a healthy condition. The English Toy Spaniel is a bright little dog who is affectionate and willing to please. He is a loyal breed and likes to sit in his owner's lap. The English Toy Spaniel's gentle and loving temperament make him an ideal dog for the elderly.

Did You Know
The English Toy Spaniel made its first appearance in England during the reign of King Charles II, in the 17th century. Celebrated professor & physician to Queen Elizabeth refers to them as ''Spaniell Gentle, otherwise called the Comforter.'' In the U.S. the breed has appeared in the AKC's records since the club was founded. Before 1903 all four colors were classified as separate breeds for show purposes, but were permitted to intermix for breeding. But in 1904 the AKC ruled that they should be combined into one breed, the English Toy Spaniel, and shown in two color varieties: King Charles and Ruby; and Prince Charles and Blenheim.

Brussels Griffon

Characteristics
A toy dog, intelligent, alert, sturdy, with a thickset, short body, a smart carriage and set-up, attracting attention by an almost human expression. There are two distinct types of coat: rough or smooth. Except for coat, there is no difference between the two.

Owning
The Brussels Griffon's coat can be either rough or smooth. The rough coat is wirey and dense, the smooth coat is straight, short, and glossy. The Brussels Griffon is alert and full of self-importance.

Did You Know
Personality plus is the first impression you will receive when meeting a Griffon. The Brussels Griffon makes lasting friends with whomever he knows.

Affenpinscher

The Affenpinscher is a balanced, little, wiry-haired terrier-like toy dog whose intelligence and demeanor make it a good house pet. Originating in Germany, where the name Affenpinscher means, ''monkey-like terrier,'' the breed was developed to rid the kitchens, granaries and stables of rodents. In France the breed is described as the diablotin moustachu'' or the moustached little devil. Both these names help to describe the appearance and attitude of this delightful breed.

Owning
The Affenpinscher requires firm but loving guidance, for it can be obstinate. The Affenpinscher's coat should be brushed several times a week. It is relatively easy to learn how to trim the dog around the feet, ears, and tail with scissors to keep him looking neat. The Affenpinscher is an alert, fearless and inquisitive dog.

Did You Know
The Affenpinscher is one of the most ancient of Toy dogs & originated in Europe. They are characterized by their monkeyish expression. The Affenpinscher shows great loyalty and affection toward its masters and friends. The Affenpinscher was admitted to the American Kennel Club's Stud Book in 1936.

Miniature Pinscher

Characteristics
The Miniature Pinscher is structurally a well balanced, sturdy, compact, short-coupled, smooth-coated dog. He naturally is well groomed, proud, vigorous and alert. Characteristic traits are his hackney-like action, fearless animation, complete self-possession, and his spirited presence.

Owning
The Miniature Pinscher is proud, vigorous and playful, even in his old age. The Min Pin is an ideal size for a house dog. The Miniature Pinscher is very possessive of his loved ones, fearless when on guard, and makes an alert watch dog.

Did You Know
The Miniature Pinscher originated in Germany, but it has been bred in Scandinavian countries. The Miniature Pinscher is noted for its lively temperament and intelligence.

Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

Characteristics
The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is an active, graceful, well-balanced toy spaniel, very gay and free in action; fearless and sporting in character, yet at the same time gentle and affectionate. It is this typical gay temperament, combined with true elegance and royal appearance which are of paramount importance in the breed. Natural appearance with no trimming, sculpting or artificial alteration is essential to breed type.

Owning
The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is a happy dog that does well in either a city or country environment. The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel interacts well with children.

Did You Know
Date entered into Regular Classes: January 1, 1996 The true purpose of this breed has always been that of a companion dog. The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is the number one toy dog in England. On January 1, 1996 it entered the ring as the 140th AKC-recognized breed. The first Cavaliers were sent to America in 1952 by Lady Forwood as a gift.

Pug

Characteristics
Symmetry and general appearance are decidedly square and cobby. A lean, leggy Pug and a dog with short legs and a long body are equally objectionable

Owning
The Pug has been referred to as ''Multo in Parvo'' meaning ''a lot of dog in a small space''. The Pug is an even-tempered breed who is playful, outgoing, dignified, and possess great charm.

Did You Know
The Pug, one of the oldest breeds, has flourished true to his breed down through the ages from before 400 BC. The Pug was accepted for registration with the AKC in 1885.

Pomeranian

Characteristics
The Pomeranian is a compact, short-backed, active toy dog. He has a soft, dense undercoat with a profuse harsh-textured outer coat. His heavily plumed tail is set high and lies flat on his back. He is alert in character, exhibits intelligence in expression, is buoyant in deportment, and is inquisitive by nature. The Pomeranian is cocky, commanding, and animated as he gaits. He is sound in composition and action.

Owning
The Pomeranian is a magnficent family pet, he is hearty and strong despite his fragile appearance. The Pomeranian's coat gives the appearance of being difficult to care for, but it is actually quite easy, a regular brushing will keep the coat in good condition.

Did You Know
The Pomeranian descended from the sled dogs of Iceland and Lapland. In 1911, the American Pomeranian Club held its first specialty show.

Chihuahua

Characteristics
A graceful, alert, swift-moving little dog with saucy expression, compact, and with terrier-like qualities of temperament.

Owning
The Chihuahua's size makes it a wonderful dog for people who live in small city apartments. The breed is very hardy and adaptable, but it must live inside a home or an apartment, the Chihuahua should not live outside. Chihuahuas are good travelers and can easily go anywhere with their owners.

Did You Know
The Chihuahua comes in two varieties: long and smooth coat. The Chihuahua is graceful, alert, and swift. This breed is clannish, recognizing and preferring his own kind. As a rule, he does not like dogs of other breeds. Legend and history are rich in tales of the ancestors of the present Chihuahua. He is described as a popular pet, as well as a religious necessity, among the ancient Toltec tribes and later among the Aztecs. Archaeologists have discovered remains of this breed in human graves in Mexico and in parts of the United States. The modern Chihuahua is quite different from his early ancestors, with his variegated colors ranging from snow white to jet black. Mexico favors the jet black with tan markings, and the black and white spotted. The United States prefers the solid colors.