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 …
The Miniature Schnauzer may be pint-sized, but don’t underestimate them — this little dynamo is feisty, loyal, and armed with one of the most glorious beards in the dog world. Originally bred in 19th-century Germany to hunt rats on farms, these scruffy-faced charmers quickly earned their place as both workers and companions. If you’re wondering …
Picture this: once upon a time in 19th-century Norwich, a chap nicknamed Doggy Lawrence (yes, really) started breeding tiny red terriers for Cambridge undergraduates. The result? The Norfolk Terrier is a pint-sized powerhouse with enough spirit to fill a rugby pitch. These lively little scruffs may be the smallest of the terrier bunch, but don’t …
The Norwegian Elkhound is one of those breeds that turns heads — with its wolfish looks, curled tail, and boundless energy. Originally bred in Norway to hunt moose and big game, this is a dog built for stamina, independence, and loyalty. If you’re looking for a striking, active companion who will happily guard your home …
The Old English Sheepdog is one of Britain’s most iconic breeds. With their shaggy coats, bear-like shuffle, and famously good-natured temperaments, they’ve captured hearts for centuries. Originally bred to help farmers drive cattle to market, these working dogs are as practical as they are cuddly. Old English Sheepdog Traits at a Glance Exercise Needs Old …
The Papillon (French for butterfly) is instantly recognisable by its large, wing-shaped ears. Their drop-eared cousins, known as Phalènes (moths), can even pop up in the same litter. Fun fact: Papillons were favourites of European royalty and show up in Renaissance paintings. Basically, these little “butterflies” have been fluttering around palaces for centuries. Don’t let …
The Peekapoo is a charming cross between the dignified Pekingese and the intelligent Poodle. One of the earliest designer breeds (dating back to the 1950s), Peekapoos have long been prized as affectionate companions. As with all crossbreeds, no two Peekapoos are the same — some take after their Poodle side, others lean toward Pekingese traits, …