Breed All About It

Beauty is more than skin deep for this bold and capable dog, well-loved for its gentle and loyal nature. Known as a bird dog of the highest order, the Irish setter has served its owners well through the history and development of this popular breed.

With natural hunting instincts, the English foxhound is one of the few breeds that is still displayed in its natural form, as hunters, not show dogs. In its early days, the breed's popularity was boosted by George Washington.

Known as the ultimate lap dog, the Cavalier King Charles was named after England's King Charles II. A Cavalier King reportedly haunts a historic Ham house in Southwest London.

Elegant and beautiful, loyal and affectionate, the collie is a self-appointed guardian that has developed a particular affinity for the care of and affection for small children. Herding sheep is still what they do best.

While the origins of the Rottweiler are undocumented, a trip to Germany uncovers the history of this breed. Notoriously fearsome, Rottweilers have an inherent desire to protect their home and family.

Prized for its intelligence, speed, hunting prowess and silence, the Basenji has been a popular breed dating back to the pharaohs of Egypt. Meet three top breeders who made a pilgrimage to the Congo to save the breed from extinction.

The bull terrier was bred as a dog for sportsmen when life had a rougher texture to it and dogfights were a popular form of entertainment. Despite this tough upbringing, today's bull terrier has one of the most positive attitudes and dispositions.

One of the oldest dog breeds, the Cardigan Welsh Corgi quickly developed into a renowned herding dog and, by virtue of its compact size, a welcomed household pet. One of the top herding cardigans takes part in the AKC herding trials.

The rich history of the Chihuahua, the smallest breed in the world, is shared through a look at its ancient Mexican ancestry and popular media image. Then, a visit to a monastery in Mexico reveal carvings that depict the Chihuahua's ancient ancestors.

One of the few breeds that are native to the United States, the Boston terrier is considered by many to be the ultimate house pet. Its size, intelligence and gentle nature make this terrier a great family companion.

The Clumber spaniel is quite possibly the oldest of the spaniel breeds. It possesses a keen hunting instinct as well as a loyal and affectionate nature.

The Jack Russell is a terrier among terriers, buoyant and intelligent, determined and relentless. Perhaps it is for these reasons this enthusiastic and clever dog has risen steadily in the ranks of popularity in the U.S.

A German historian traces the development of Boxers in the country. There's also a meeting with a top Boxer and a look at the controversy over ears -- whether to crop or not.