Boston Terrier
Boston Terriers were originally bred for pit fighting and ratting in the 19th century before becoming friendly companion dogs.
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel was originally bred as a companion dog for European royalty and aristocrats.
Dachshund
Dachshunds were originally bred in Germany to hunt badgers and other small animals that lived in burrows such as rabbits.
Fox Terrier
Fox Terriers were originally bred in 18th-century England to assist with fox hunting and to control vermin on farms.
French Bulldog
French Bulldogs were bred in England but became famous in France during the Industrial Revolution.
Italian Greyhound
Italian Greyhounds have a history that stretches back 2,000 years and were bred as a companion and skilled hunter.
Jack Russell Terrier
The Jack Russell Terrier was originally bred as a hunting dog, especially for fox hunting in England during the 1800s.
Lhasa Apso
The Lhasa Apso originated in the palaces of Tibet, where it served as both a cherished companion and an indoor watchdog.
Pekingese
For centuries, Pekingese were companions of Chinese emperors and were rarely seen outside the royal court.
Poodle
Poodles were originally bred as water retrievers, helping hunters retrieve ducks and other waterfowl.
Pug
Pugs were originally bred in ancient China to be companion dogs for emperors and wealthy families as far back as 400 B.C.
Schnauzer
Schnauzers were originally bred in Germany as versatile farm dogs that helped hunt small animals and keep farms rat-free.
Shetland Sheepdog
Shelties were originally bred as hardworking farm and watchdogs on Scotland’s rugged Shetland Islands.
Shih Tzu
Shih Tzus were originally bred to be loving companions and bring good fortune for royalty and monks in ancient China.
West Highland White Terrier
West Highland White Terriers, often called Westies, were originally bred in Scotland to hunt small burrowing animals.
Disclaimer: The size classifications provided for the breeds are based on the breed standards recognised by the Kennel Union of Southern Africa (KUSA). These measurements and weight ranges are intended as general guidelines only. Individual dogs may vary in size depending on factors such as genetics, sex, nutrition, and overall health.
