Coveted for their hunting prowess, the Irish Wolfhound was, by law, originally only permitted to be owned by kings, nobles and poets. He hunted wolves, wild boar and the gigantic Irish elk. As you might imagine, this necessitated great courage, size, strength and stamina - all qualities the Wolfhound has in great abundance. Today the Irish Wolfhound is primarily a much-loved pet and companion.

This game, hardy little Terrier takes its name from the Rev. John (Jack) Russell, a fox-hunting Parson. He was obsessed with the development of an ideal terrier which could flush the fox from its haunts during hunts. It is said the Reverend went about cross breeding several breeds in hope of creating this ideal worker. Along the way he also created the Parson Russell Terrier, which has longer legs making it much faster than the Jack Russell.

The Maltese has a colourful yet unconfirmed history and has played an important companion role throughout the world. Fondly described as the 'lady's jewel', the Maltese was a pet of the noble ladies of ancient Egypt, Greece and Rome who used to carry them around in their sleeves!

Originated in Germany as a ratter and companion dog, the Miniature Pinscher in fun loving and has a high self-esteem. Also known as 'Min Pins' they may be one of out most underrated small dogs. The word 'pinsch' means to snatch or grab. Some still retain this instinct.

This little dog takes the name from the French word for butterfly - papillon. Not only do they have large fringed ears closely resembling a butterfly's wings, but also a thin white blaze between the ears, bisecting the face, that suggests the insect's body.

These Royal Dogs of China were considered sacred animals and, as such, were bred and carefully guarded in the Imperial Palace where only those within the royal circle were permitted to own one. Theft of a Pekingese was punishable by death.

The smallest of the Spitz group of dogs, the Pomeranian is a descendant of the much larger artic breeds such as the Samoyed. Allegedly named after the province of Pomerania in Europe, this breed was created in  the 19th century.  Towards the end of the century, Queen Victoria adopted Pomeranians and since then its popularity has soared dramatically.

The origins of the Pug are thought to lie in China nearly 2000 years ago. Subsequently around the 1500's the Pug was introduced to Europe by merchants where they soon became the dog of high society and royalty. Often treated as toys, dressed up in bizarre fashions and living the life of pure luxury.

The Samoyed originated in the north-west of Siberia, where they were used for herding reindeer and pulling sledges. They took their name from the nomadic Samoyed tribe, who regarded these dogs as members of the family and shared their sleeping quarters with them In later years the "Sammie" as he is affectionately known, was largely responsible for the successful exploration of the Arctic Circle.

Affectionately known as the Scottie, this terrier is a hardy, courageous, loyal and an often stubborn companion. With records stretching back some 500 years, it is thought that the Scottie may be the oldest of British terrier breed.  With an unmistakable appearance, the Scottish Terrier is a very agile independent dog. Their stately gait, proudly held pointed ears and powerful build, are in sharp contrast to a low slung structure and lack of height!