Small but mighty, Corgis are pint-sized, lovable pups who are surprisingly agile and active. They can make great family members for first-time owners and families. Personality and temperament Pembroke Welsh Corgis are mighty…in their own heads and are often described as a ‘big dog trapped in a small dog’s body’. They’re alert, active and highly adaptable dogs, who are playful, friendly and love being the centre of attention – always. Corgis are up for just about any adventure, making them a great family pet, but they equally love having their own personal space at home. Be warned, this herding dog is generally great with children, but they might try herding smaller toddlers if given the chance. They also make loud guard dogs and will happily announce visitors (or just anyone walking past the house). Size and appearance A small-to-medium sized pooch, Corgis typically don’t grow taller than about 30cm. They have ...

Small, feisty and lovable, Dachshunds are not built for speed (or stairs). But they do love cuddles and owners who keep them in check. Personality and temperament One of the most recognisable breeds, Dachshunds – or Sausage Dogs – are known for their bravery and protective nature, and they’ll often comically take on other dogs much bigger than themselves. Their personality varies a little between their different varieties but generally these little firecrackers make loyal family members, are good with children and tend to be good guard dogs (read: they bark at the wind). They can be destructive, due to their love of digging, so best to keep them well exercised. Size and appearance Dachshunds come in two sizes – standard (around 7-15 kilos) and miniature (under five kilos) – as well as three varieties: smooth, wire-coated and long-coated. They also have a long muzzle, floppy ears and an extra-long torso. ...

Gentle, devoted and always happy to see you, the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel loves to soak up cuddles at any time of day. They love children and make great family pets. Personality and temperament It’s hard not to fall in love with a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel. Not only do they have a calm, low-key temperament and affectionate personality, but they also have large, inviting round eyes that are impossible to say ‘no’ to. On top of that, they are intelligent and playful pups that are always up for a play, a walk or simply to have the job of warming your lap. They won’t say no. Size and appearance A toy dog, Cavalier King Charles Spaniel are the perfect size to demand a lap cuddle on a regular basis. They shouldn’t get above about 8 kilos, and they generally don’t reach higher than 33 cm to their shoulder. Their silky-soft ...

English bulldogs are big, brave and beautiful (to their owners!), and despite their muscles and broad chest, these gentle powerhouses like to be the class clown. Personality and temperament Loving, friendly and a little drool-y, English Bulldogs are patient and even playful with children and their families. While some may be wary of unfamiliar dogs, most are deeply loyal to their human ‘pack’ and love being part of whatever’s going on (unless it involves a long run). They’re sometimes mistaken for being lazy (aren’t we all?), but really, their short snout and restricted airways simply limit how much exercise they can handle. Size and appearance Jam-packed with muscles and framed by broad shoulders, English Bulldogs have comically large heads with folds of skin and expressive eyes that can make them look a little grumpy at times. Their large chops (jaw) take up half of their friendly face and their lower jaw ...

Cute as a button with an irresistible personality, French Bulldogs quickly become the centre of attention in any room, despite their pocket-sized body. Personality and temperament Packed full of charisma and charm, French Bulldogs are a cheeky but generally well behaved, friendly little pup who loves lounging on your comfiest chair. Their easy-going nature and playful attitude to life have made them one of the most popular family dogs, but don’t be fooled, they have their moments – and Frenchie ‘zoomies’ are one of the cutest things you’ll ever experience. Size and appearance With distinct black ‘bat ears’, a squashy face with wrinkles, large expressive eyes and a compact muscly body, Frenchies sport an instantly recognisable silhouette. However, their signature short muzzle can lead to breathing issues and overheating. Frenchies have short, smooth fur that’s surprisingly thick, making them very huggable. Extra care is needed to keep their skin folds clean, ...

The ultimate lap warmer, Pugs are a lively but even-tempered breed whose sole purpose in life is to hang around its owners and make them pat them. Personality and temperament It’s hard to find fault with this people-pleasing pooch; Pugs are playful without being comedic, loving without being clingy, and happy without being hyperactive. They love nothing more than being wherever their human ‘pack’ is, and dislike being left alone, especially as they can be a little mischievous. They can be a good choice for first-time dog owners as they are relatively low-maintenance pups. Size and appearance Pugs are a small dog breed with a height of around 36cm and a weight of around 6-9kg – just perfect to fit on your lap. Their stocky little bodies are very huggable with short fur, floppy ears and a curled-up tail. Their squashy faces, complete with ‘worry’ wrinkles and big eyes are a ...

Chow Chows are sturdy little fluff balls who are independent and fiercely loyal, yet not overly cuddly. While they make great companion pets, they are prone to certain health concerns. Personality and temperament Independent, aloof and dignified are all words that can be used to describe the personality of the regal Chow Chow. These proud but serious pups can be wary of new people and animals, but they are loyal and protective with the ones they love. Often compared to being ‘cat-like’ in nature, their stubbornness and extreme intelligence may not be suited to first-time dog owners or anyone that wants a cuddly pooch. Size and appearance With over-the-top fur coverage, a blue/black tongue and cute triangle ears, Chow Chows are half bear and half dog in appearance. Their dense double coat, which comes in two types (rough-coated and smooth-coated) gives teddy-bear vibes, as does their beautiful almond-shaped eyes and constantly ...