In the past years, America has seen an increase in the popularity of miniature dog breeds, like the Yorkshire Terrier and the Miniature Schnauzer. They’re cute, cuddly and make for an eye-grabbing fashion statement. But with the New Year heralding a slew of social and cultural changes, not least among them the economic recession, American families might think differently about buying a new pet this time around.

In tough economic times, a puppy could be seen as too high-end of an accessory. Housebreaking such miniature breeds can be especially taxing. They require constant attention and grooming. They can be feisty and temperamental. Teaching them to use the dog toilet, might be too much of a chore for the working family.However, there’s no underestimating the power of celebrity. While working families might choose to adopt more practical breeds of dogs, Hollywood stars will likely continue their love affair with miniature pups.

Last year, the Shih Tzu made it into the American Knnel Club’s “most popular breeds” list for the very first time. And it’s easy to see why: it’s an adorable dog. A tiny pup, with floppy ears, a round head, bushy brows and big, inquisitive eyes, the Shih Tzu has become quite fashionable among the likes of Paris Hilton and actress Jane Seymour.

And while the Shih Tzu usually landed in the lower end of the last year’s top ten lists, it’s very possible that it will rise further up in 2009. Sometimes, in hard times, you need a little cuteness to cheer your spirits, even if said cuteness can be a bit difficult to housebreak, toilet train, groom, or generally keep up with. Now, traditionally popular “family” dogs have always held top spots in most-popular-dogs lists of years past, and they are likely to remain there.

The German Shepherd is an excellent example of a dog that exemplifies loyalty, family friendliness and hard work, ideals that many would consider essential in tackling the challenges that Americans are facing now.As the name implies, the German Shepherd hails from Karlsruhe, Germany. It was brought to the States in 1907 and became hugely popular thanks, in part, to its depictions in family shows like Rin-Tin-Tin and Stongheart. The GS is the top police dog working today. He is strong, dependable and fearless when it comes to the line of duty. But the GS is also a very good family dog. It is approachable and friendly. It is loyal, protective, and can form very strong bonds with children. Housebreaking and training a GS is not hard. Additionally, he does not require nearly as much grooming as the smaller and/or fluffier canine breeds.

The Boxer dog is another breed that will likely remain popular in 2009. With its flat snout and muscular build, it can appear to be perpetually serious or even angry, but the Boxer remains one of the most playful and friendly breeds of dog out there. The American Kennel Club praises this dog for forming excellent bonds with children and being relatively low maintenance, the latter quality being especially desired in our current economy.

The Boxer, like the German Shepherd, was also developed in Germany in the 1800s, and used for hunting and as a courier in war. They are protective of their human families and absolutely love being around people.

Now, there are other popular family dogs that we could talk about. There’s the playful Beagle, the gentle Bulldog, and many others. But the dog that will definitely take the top spot in 2009 is the same one that’s been at the top in the past: The Labrador Retriever.

With its sun-kissed coat, the Labrador remains the classic, all-American dog. Although it requires regular grooming, it is still one of the best family pets in the country, as it is easy to housebreak and train. The Lab is excellent with children and loves to exercise and be active, a perfect motivator for Americans who are trying to get back into the swing of life.The Lab has a water resistant coat that makes him perfect for outdoor play. It has a very calm, even temper, something which is direly needed in times of stress and hardship. It is loyal, dynamic and always up for fun. With a new president in office and new uncertainties and challenges facing the nation, families are bound to feel some of the patriotic vigor that’s circulating. And the Labrador retriever, with its knack for adaptability and friendly individualism, can compliment the search for this new vigor quite well.

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There are so many breeds of dogs, in fact, there’s probably too many breeds too count. There are cute dogs, funny looking dogs, loyal dogs, little dogs, big dogs, and much, much more. Also, with mixed breed dogs, there are fun-named breeds such as labradoodle. Check out 100 pictures of various dog breeds below. You can either watch the slideshow or click on a single image to expand them.

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Deciding to train your new puppy or an older dog at home as opposed to sending him/her to a professional trainer is a wise decision because you are the best person to train your own dog. The bond between you and your dog will be stronger, your personalities will mesh better, you will have confidence in the training of your dog as well as in your dog’s skills and abilities, and your dog and you will love and trust each other. Read below for some information to get your new puppy off to the best possible start, correct numerous behavioral problems in older dogs, and simply apply basic and advanced dog obedience training.

Housebreaking a Puppy

While the arrival of a new puppy is cause for joy and excitement, it comes with frustrations. The most frustrating part of new puppy training is housebreaking a puppy. This is especially true because there will be unpleasant messes to clean up during the trial and error period. From your dog’s point of view there is no right or wrong place to go potty; thus, it is your job to clearly communicate and reinforce where it is acceptable. The keys to potty training a puppy are to closely monitor your puppy to try to limit messy mistakes and enthusiastically reward the desired behavior every time it occurs. Know that opening the door every time your puppy wants to go to the bathroom is not an effective method of potty training. The best tool to use when training your new puppy is to designate a potty area and use a dog toilet. Dog potties, for example the UgoDog Indoor Dog Potty, are cleaner, more effective ways of housebreaking your puppy.

Limiting Separation Anxiety

Frequently, dogs become too reliant and dependant on their owners. As a result, they can experience separation anxiety when their owners leave home, which can cause them to act inappropriately when you’re apart. Generally, a mild case of separation anxiety can be fixed by utilizing the following simple lessons.

1. Make sure your dog is comfortable when you are away by providing plenty of fresh water, clean bedding, appealing dog toys, and some food.
2. Before leaving, be sure to give your dog plenty of exercise.
3. If you often have the radio or television on when you are home, you can leave it on while you’re away and your dog will be comforted.
4. Pay no attention to your dog when you first arrive home and when you are just about to leave. Then, when he/she is calm, initiate some contact with him/her.
5. Separate yourself from your dog when you are home. For example, keep him in the garage while you are in the house. This way he/she will learn being apart is ok.

For more severe cases of separation anxiety, you may want to consider a visit to your vet for medication.

Walking your dog

Dog walking is a crucial skill to master for both you and your dog. It is important for you to train your dog to walk correctly with a leash because they will be much safer and more manageable. Additionally, several cities have ordinances requiring dogs to be walked on leashes. To master dog walking, you must first get your dog comfortable with wearing something around his neck. This can be accomplished by the dog wearing a collar or maybe a cute bandana. Your dog will probably roll around and try to take the item off, but it is important that you do not remove it until your dog has settled down and forgotten about the item. Once your dog is comfortable wearing something around his/her neck, you can introduce the leash.Show your dog the leash before you put it on so he/she can become accustomed to it. Let him/her sniff and inspect it. Ensure your dog knows it is not a chew toy. At first your walks should be quick and short so your dog can get used to the concept. When your dog begins to strain the leash, stop immediately instead of pulling him/her back into place. When your dog is walking comfortably along a loose leash, give him plenty of praise. Eventually, you will be able to walk long distances and you and your dog will enjoy taking stress-free walks. Housebreaking a puppy, limiting separation anxiety, and walking your dog are just a few of the numerous lessons you will need to teach your dog. Know that for every aspect of your training consistency and persistency are crucial.

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