The Non-Sporting Group

Your lifestyle, whether the dog will be kept indoors or outdoors
The amount of exercise you will be able to supply your new charge
Coat care must be a breed-specific consideration prior to a purchase

	American Eskimo Dog A member of the Spitz family, it is easy to trace the roots of the American Eskimo to the Nordic-type dogs, as their double coats, prick ears, wedge-shaped muzzles, and curled-over-the-back tails easily place them in this category. This high-energy dog has a most agreeable temperament that makes him ideal for almost any living situation. Available in three sizes: Toy (12 inches), Miniature (12-15 inches), and Standard (15-19 inches), the Eskie proves to be a perfect-sized companion dog. It’s a very hearty and intelligent dog that is trainable and obedient.
	Bichon Frise Descending from very small, frequently white lap dogs, the Bichon Frise has his roots set in the Mediterranean area as early as 600-300 B.C. The Bichon is forever a happy little dog with a lively and carefree way of life. He is easygoing and gives from his heart without conditions. His stride and pleasant voice contribute to his appeal. An excellent children's dog, the Bichon excels in obedience and is very smart.
	Boston Terrier A very easy-care companion, the Boston Terrier is neat and tidy and possesses no doggy odor. A very well-mannered and docile dog, the Boston is quiet and good mannered in the home. Bostons are generally non-combative souls, but true to their heritage, they can take good care of themselves and make marvelous watchdogs.
	Bulldog Originally bred for the dangerous job of bull-baiting, this once courageous, strong, and tenacious breed is today a peaceful and good-natured soul with only love to share. A true family friend, the Bulldog needs an owner that will do things with him, not for him, making children the ideal companions. Not very agile or a good watchdog, the Bulldog is the perfect homebody.
	Chinese Shar-Pei Formerly known as the Chinese Fighting Dog, the Shar-Pei is of Mastiff and Nordic descent. This one time hunter, protector and fighter is affectionate with his own, but aloof and independent among strangers. He can be a stubborn breed that requires good training and proper socialization. Much has been accomplished by breeders in developing his temperament.
	Chow Chow In the 18th century, ship captains would list any knickknack brought from the Orient as "Chow-Chow," including the dogs that would eventually bear this name. In his home in China, he was originally a utilitarian, all-around working dog and hunter. Today he is strictly a pet and a show dog. His unique bear-like appearance, prick ears, stilted gait, and black tongue are hallmarks of the breed. He comes in two coat types: rough and smooth.
	Dalmatian Named for his country of origin, Dalmatia, the Dalmatian has been employed in numerous tasks over the years. Best known as a coach dog, the Dalmatian had a great capacity as a workhorse. The breed's background lends it to being of great strength and stamina, however, this can prove to be too challenging for some owners. Very dedicated and eager-to-please dogs, the Dalmatian is mild mannered, affectionate, and delightfully clown like. Dalmatians love to run and jump and should not be denied this opportunity. He is readily recognized for his black- or liver-colored spots on a white coat.
	Finnish Spitz This hunter of small game and birds in his native land is a foxy-looking Nordic breed with a weather-resistant coat that can range from honey to deep auburn in color. He is a very active, quick, medium-to-small dog who is friendly but cautious. He is slowly gaining popularity in North America.
	French Bulldog The French Bulldog was undoubtedly derived from the English Bulldogs who were sent to France where they were bred with other breeds. His main characteristics are his bat ears and large square head. He is rising fast in popularity in North America, following a long period where only a few were seen. They are a delightful breed, active, alert, and playful with an even disposition.
	Keeshond A gray-black dog, the Keeshond was originally known in Holland as the Dutch Barge Dog. Always a good-luck companion of seafaring vessels, the Keeshond is sure to bring goodness and happiness to any home he is welcomed into. Easily adaptable to any lifestyle, the Keeshond is able to thrive indoors and out. Children and other dogs are favorite playmates of this bright, happy breed.
	Lhasa Apso With a rich history of interaction with man as a talisman, companion, and a symbol of divinity, the Lhasa Apso's roots trace to seventh-century Tibet. The Lhasa was bred to emulate the holy lion. Today, the Lhasa still beams with elegance. Very protective of his home and family, the Lhasa is wary of strangers. With proper training at a young age, the Lhasa Apso is sure to be a perfect home companion who fully enjoys the company of children. He loves to lie by his owner's feet as he often did in the monastery, where he was the inside guard who lay under the monks' robe, keeping their feet warm.
	Standard and Mini Poodle A dog of German origin, the Poodle was once used as a water retriever. In order to increase his speed in the water, his non-shedding coat was clipped. This so captivated the French that they began to cut the Poodle's coat to establish patterns. From then on, the popularity of the breed grew rapidly and his intelligence made him a universal favorite. In the process, his retrieving ability was almost forgotten. He is without a doubt one of the most recognizable dog breeds and is a delightful and spirited companion. The only difference between these two types of Poodles is their size.
	Schipperke Probably a descendant of the Spitz-type dog, the Schipperke was once used on barge ships in Belgium. Always a small black breed, his size made him ideal for other jobs as well and he was a keen ratter and hunter of rabbits and moles. Schipperkes are very fond of people and of children in particular and are very protective of their family to whom they are devoted.
	Shiba Inu The smallest of the Japanese dogs, the Shiba Inu is said to have originated from dogs brought over from the South Seas. His intelligence and quickness make the Shiba a great hunter of ground birds and other small game. A high-strung little dog, the Shiba needs an owner with a lot of energy who can treat his charge with great feeling. He is a tough little dog who can be aggressive and should be disciplined with kindness early in life.
	Tibetan Spaniel Boasting a quite fascinating history, the little Tibetan Spaniel was once known in Tibetan monasteries as a "prayer dog." Prayers were written on parchment and put in a revolving box, and the little dogs were then trained to turn the prayer wheels. Outside of the monasteries, he was a popular watchdog and companion. Today this breed's chief position is in his owner's heart, for he is a loving breed who is ideal in the home and playful with children.
	Tibetan Terrier The original good luck charm of Tibet, the Tibetan Terrier also proved to be a competent herder and companion. His engaging personality endears this breed to people, and he is a hearty animal who is a doer. Adaptable to many lifestyles, the Tibetan Terrier is obedient and willing to learn. His long coat naturally needs constant attention so only an owner who is willing to devote the necessary time should consider this breed.