breed

By Lauren R. Tharp

The second most popular dog in the United States (according to AKC registration records), the Golden Retriever originated as a hunting dog, roaming the Scottish Highlands, in the late 1800s. Now known for being excellent guide dogs and search and rescue dogs, the Golden Retriever was officially recognized as a breed by the AKC in 1925 and has been a favorite among dog-owners everywhere ever since.

Stephen Huneck Gallery

Physical Traits

Size & Weight: Medium to large. Females are smaller, generally around 20-22 inches tall and 55-65 pounds. Males are much larger, measuring 23-25 inches tall and weighing 65-80 pounds.

Coat & Color: Dense, water-resistant, outer coat with a softer undercoat. Their coats also have some feathering at the neck, back, thighs, and underside of the tail. The color is, true to their name: Golden.

Other: Digby on Pushing Daisies, Shadow in Homeward Bound: The Incredible Journey, Dug in Up, and Buddy from the Air Bud movies were all Golden Retrievers. President Gerald Ford, the 38^th President of the United States, also had a Golden Retriever, Liberty, as his Presidential dog while in office.

Life Expectancy: 10-12 years

Temperament

The ultimate people dog! Friendly, happy, and reliable, Golden Retrievers are a wonderful dog choice for people of all ages and living situations. They’re energetic, requiring daily exercise, but they aren’t overly demanding. Eager to please, these dogs will go to great lengths to make sure you’re happy with them.

Wags

Easy to train!

A great family pet. Works well with people of all ages.

Exceptionally friendly. Great with strangers and other animals.

Challenges

They shed a lot. If you’re fussy about your household cleaning, this might not be the breed for you

Not the best watch dogs. They’re just too friendly!

Can become destructive if left alone for long periods of time.

If you are interested in adopting a Golden Retriever, please visit Golden Retriever Rescue, based in South Florida, they will help you to match family your with the right dog.

Special thanks to Stephen Hunack’s Dog Mountain gallery for use of this Golden Retriever featured image.

by Lauren R. Tharp

The Shih Tzu or “Shitzu” (pronounced as Sheet-zoo)was originally the dog of choice for the royals in the Ming Dynasty. During World War II the dog was discovered by soldiers in England and has quickly became a favorite house pet here in the US. More than 20 years later, the AKC officially registered the breed. Now the AKC registers the Shitzu as the 10^th most popular dog breed in the United States.

Stephen Huneck Gallery

Physical Traits

Size & Weight: Very small. Shih Tzus are part of the Toy group and tend to be 7-11 inches tall and weigh a mere 8-16 pounds.

Coat & Color: Most commonly white or white with markings; however, Shih Tzus come in all colors and markings. Their coat is long—often dragging on the floor if not trimmed—double-coated, and flowing.

Other: The word “shih tzu” means “lion.”

Life Expectancy: 15 years or more

Temperament:

Although Shih Tzus are small, they aren’t afraid to stand up for themselves. These dogs were bred for companionship and that’s what they excel at—loving, friendly, loyal, and trusting, these dogs make fantastic house pets. These dogs are happy and affectionate toward all who encounter them.

Wags:

Friendly with strangers and other animals.
Requires minimal exercise.
Not as “yappy” and demanding as some of the other Toy breeds.

Challenges:

Grooming, grooming, grooming!! Have you seen their hair?
They love to dig. Prepare to have holes in your yard if you don’t keep a close eye on them during their potty breaks. Toys and interactive play can really help discourage this behavior.

Looking for a Shih Tzu? Please contact Shih Tzu Rescue to learn more about their adoptable dogs.

A special thanks to Dog Mountain for use of this featured image of the Shih Tzu.