TOP 20 PUPPY/DOG BREEDS - NUMBERS 1 TO 5

1. BOXER - Bred to be good-natured and gentle the Boxer is related to the Bulldog.  Boxers are easily distracted, especially in the presence of other dogs, but are strong willed dogs with high-energy personalities.  They love to show their affection by jumping up on people and love to chew things up.

The Boxer is easily trained but should be done with constant positive reinforcement and lots of praise.  A well-trained Boxer will be easier to live with and will work to please you.

2. CHIHUAHUA - The Chihuahua is typically a breed with high-energy that can be self-centered and demanding due to over indulgence of their owners.  Personalities can run the gamut, from timid to aggressive, but early socialization can make a big difference in their personalities.

Training can be difficult, as is the case with most toy breeds, but can be made easier by not giving in.  For example, if you are trying to train them not to sleep on the bed or furniture then don't allow it part of the time, insist they stay down every time.

3. PUG - These strong-willed and sometimes stubborn dogs are very outgoing but are warm, sweet tempered dogs.  Pugs make good companions as well as good dogs for small living spaces.  However, they will not always work to please you every time.  Pugs love to play and cuddle.

They are part of the toy breed but are very social.  Pugs are easily distracted and always on the go.  Repetition and generous amounts of praise will make training easier for this breed.


4. YORKSHIRE TERRIER - Although the Yorkshire terrier is the littlest of dogs they are best known as a big dog in a little body.  They are feisty and fearless and these miniature guard dogs will bark at strangers.  It's as if they don't know they are little dogs because they will challenge anyone.

If socialized at a young age, Yorkshire Terriers will typically get along well with other dogs and their personalities make for great pets.  Housebreaking can be a challenge and must be started early.  Paper training is not recommended for this breed.

5. SHIH TZU - Because of it's small size the Shih Tzu makes a great house pet.  They are adorable and sweet and have an elegant look that matches their princess like attitude.  The Shih Tzu is an intelligent dog with docile behavior but can be stubborn at times.

Housebreaking is this breed's biggest challenge.  They also love to sleep with you and sit on your furniture, which can be a problem for some.  Training should be started early and to avoid the Shih Tzu from becoming snippy they should be socialized as soon as possible.