best dogs

The Best Dog Breed for Each State

The Best Dog Breed for Each State

There may not be a single best dog breed for any state, but below is our list of breeds that hold a special place in the hearts of residents of each of the 50 United States. With 193 dog breeds recognized by the American Kennel Club, plus additional mixed breeds and shelter mixes, it was difficult coming up with a single best breed for each of the 50 states. Since the best dog breed for someone in California may not be the best breed for someone in Florida, we looked at many deciding factors, including, the state’s climate, urban versus rural distribution, popular activities, historic events, and even state of…

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The 9 Best Dog Breeds for Cold Weather

Whether you live in the icy high latitudes or just love the snow the few times a year your region sees it, having a dog who thrives in the snow is a nice bonus. The best dog breeds for cold weather may not all look alike, and some may surprise you, but we looked at a variety of factors in order to narrow down a list. Some of these breeds are obvious snow dogs, while others you may not consider snow dogs but will enjoy winters just as much as you. If you’re looking to add an adventurous furry companion to the household, but need a dog who can handle frigid temperatures and winter snow, consider these seven exceptional dog breeds for cold weather.

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The Best Dog Breeds for Families


The Perkins family poses with some of their pooches during a holiday gathering.
Photo courtesy Dave Perkins

When choosing the best dog breed for your family, answering a few simple questions can help steer you in the right direction. What are the ages of your children? What size home and yard space do you have? And, finally, how energetic and active are you as a family?

Answering these three questions helps you choose a dog with the energy level, exercise needs, and temperament that best suit your family’s lifestyle. A laid-back dog who stays calm in the midst of pandemonium, for example, is a wise choice for families with young children. If square footage is limited in your home and yard, a medium or small dog is a better choice.

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Best Dog Breeds for the Country

By: Orvis Staff

Yogi loves being out in the country.

Photo by: Macy, Camden

If you live in the country, chances are you enjoy exploring the fields, forests, and footpaths of your rustic stomping grounds. If you’re interested in getting a dog you can bring along on these excursions, choose with care. Some dog breeds would rather stick close to home than romp across rolling fields or venture out into the wilderness. Thankfully, however, many dog breeds are naturally adventurous and game for al fresco escapades. If you’re the outdoorsy type, you should be on the lookout for the latter.

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