Tsvetnaya bolonka (which translates to "colored lap dogs") are small companions bred to live in a family. They're smart, easy-going, and great with kids.
These 5- to 10-pound dogs sport extra-fluffy white hair. As their name suggests, these little meatballs are Italian through and through, dating as far back as the 11th century.
This herding breed is known for being intelligent and easy to train, though these dogs require daily exercise, supervision, and mental and physical stimulation.
These unique-looking water dogs have webbed feet, and are one of the best swimming breeds. The Irish water spaniel is an incredible retriever, originally bred to fetch waterfowl, and is playful in the home.
The affenpinscher—German for "monkey dog" or "ape terrier"—is also called diablotin moustachu, or "mustached little devil," in French
The löwchen, German for "little lion," is a toy breed designed for companionship. The dogs are agile, smart, and easily trainable
This French hunting dog is best known for his robust coat of curls. Bred to retrieve water game, these dogs have webbed paws and are great swimmers
These English terriers were bred to work in the mines, chasing down rats and other pests that lurked underground.