Greyhounds may look like elite athletes — all lean muscle and long legs — but off the racetrack, they’re professional nappers. Bred for coursing and racing, these dogs are sprinters, not marathoners. Most retired racers are happiest sprawled across the sofa, snoring loudly, and reminding you that they were born for comfort. Owner insight: “They …
If the Irish Wolfhound is the tallest dog, the Great Dane is the one that truly feels like living with a horse indoors. Originally bred in Germany to hunt boar, these massive dogs are now known as “gentle giants” — affectionate, goofy, and convinced they belong on your lap. Owner insight: “They are fantastic, though …
Small body, massive personality. The Jack Russell Terrier (JRT) is one of the feistiest little dogs you’ll ever meet. Originally bred in England to bolt foxes from their dens, these pint-sized dynamos are fearless, clever, and full of beans. They’re loyal companions, cheeky comedians, and occasionally chaos on four legs. Owner insight: “Very high energy …
The Irish Wolfhound is a legend on four legs. Once bred to hunt wolves and guard estates, these towering hounds are the tallest dog breed in the world. But behind that imposing size lies a heart of gold — they’re gentle, calm, and often convinced they’re lapdogs. Owner insight: “They are my favourite breed … …
The Irish Setter is a head-turner — that glossy mahogany coat, the long legs, and the boundless energy. Originally bred in Ireland as gundogs, these red rockets were designed to work all day in the field, pointing out game for hunters. Today, they’re more likely to be sprinting across the park, charming strangers, or napping …
The Italian Greyhound (or IGgie, as fans call them) is the smallest of the sighthounds — a delicate, fine-boned little shadow dog that’s equal parts elegance and eccentricity. Bred initially in Italy centuries ago to chase hares and entertain noble families, today they’re more likely to be found stealing your spot on the sofa than …
The Labrador Retriever isn’t just Britain’s most-loved dog — it’s basically part of the furniture. Originally bred in Newfoundland to haul nets and later refined in the UK as gundogs, Labs have always been hard-working companions. These days, they’re just as likely to be guide dogs, therapy dogs, or beloved family clowns. Friendly, greedy, endlessly …
The Labradoodle — sometimes cheekily called a Labrapoo — is one of the most popular crossbreeds in the world. First bred in Australia in the 1980s to create a guide dog suitable for allergy sufferers, this Labrador × Poodle mix has become the poster pup for family-friendly, teddy-bear dogs. They’re loyal, clever, and endlessly enthusiastic …
The Lhasa Apso might look like a walking mop, but don’t be fooled. Beneath that flowing coat is a bold, independent little watchdog once bred to guard Tibetan monasteries. Small in size, big in presence — these dogs took their job seriously, warning monks of strangers long before they reached the door. As one UK …
The Mastiff — often called the English Mastiff — is one of the world’s oldest dog breeds and certainly one of the heaviest. Once bred as war dogs and guardians, today’s Mastiffs have swapped the battlefield for the family sofa (and yes, they take up most of it). They may look intimidating thanks to their …
The Maltipoo is one of the UK’s most popular “designer dogs” — a cross between the Maltese and the Miniature or Toy Poodle. Originally bred to create a low-shedding companion, the Maltipoo has fast become a family favourite thanks to its sweet temperament, playful energy, and cuddle-ready looks. But remember: no dog is truly hypoallergenic. …
The Miniature Pinscher — affectionately known as the Min Pin — is miniature in size but enormous in personality. Fearless, elegant, and a little bit bossy, this German breed was initially bred to chase rats out of stables and homes. They may look like a mini Doberman, but they’re actually an older, distinct breed all …