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What Does Your Dog Say  About You?

Dogs And Owners May Share Similarities It's a commonly accepted truth that we adopt animal companions who mirror our own personalities, quirks, levels of physical activity or emotional states. So what does your dog say about you? According to the American Kennel Club, here are some popular assumptions about the most popular breeds in the country.

Labrador Retriever  Labs are among the most cheerful, good-natured, family friendly dogs around, and people who have them tend to be family-oriented, low-key, gregarious people who enjoy the company of others. Like their dogs, they are usually very even-tempered. Golden Retriever Goldens are similar to Labs in their temperament and nature: friendly, cheerful, active dogs who are great with families. Owners of Goldens also tend towards being social, family-centered, open and honest.   Beagle One of the smallest hounds, Beagles are bright, curious, questing dogs with gentle dispositions and strong wills. If you have a Beagle in your house, chances are you are a curious, willful person as well, loyal to friends, tough on enemies, vocal and probably pretty stubborn.  Poodle Poodles are the runway models of the popular breeds, highly intelligent and graceful. Poodle owners are often detail-oriented, appreciate art and culture, and take great pleasure in the classic lines and look of their dogs. If you keep a poodle, it's likely that you also favor other classics like cars, paintings or wine.  German Shepherd The German shepherd is protective, intelligent and highly adaptive. Owners are often outdoorsy types who expect a companion who can thrive in almost any environment. They are also often concerned with security, relying on the dog for protection.   Dachshund Because of their size and happy, curious disposition, the Dachshund is a wonderful first pet for children. Like Beagles, they can be stubborn and nosy, and if you keep one, it’s likely that you are a bit stubborn, questioning, and mischievous yourself.     Yorkshire Terrier The tiny Yorkie is smart, alert and an excellent watchdog. Women tend to own Yorkies more than men, but men who are confident and don’t need to own a big “macho” dog often make wonderful parents to this English breed. Yorkie owners tend to be childless, as the dogs aren’t fond of kids.  Cocker Spaniel The classic American family dog, the Cocker is gentle, playful, sweet and a perfect size for smaller children. Cocker owners are usually family-minded, gentle, and highly affectionate toward both dogs and humans.   Boxer The Boxer is all things dog: cautious yet friendly, snugly yet rough-and-tumble, smart and independent. Boxer owners tend to be the same way, able to get tough with a dog that needs strong training, but able to play and be silly with a great clown of a dog. Boxer owners are often emotionally healthy people.   Border Collie If there’s a dog for the active, outdoorsy set, it’s the Border Collie. Smart as a whip, Border Collies must have designated jobs, usually outside. That means an owner embraces the outdoors and has boundless energy. If you hike, bike, ski and climb, you probably have a Border Collie.     Return to the VPI Pet HealthZone>>

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