Casey the Golden Retriever and her best friend haven’t seen each other in 10 months. When they’re reunited, she just melts in his arms and squeals with excitement. Casey’s best friend took a new job in a different country and so she stayed with her grandparents, who she loves very much. This was the first chance that her best friend was able to come back to visit, and you can see how much love there is between them.

Just like humans, me and my dog friends have feelings. Some of us are ruff around the edges while some are a little more sensitive, so it’s important to understand your dog’s breed, especially if you are getting a dog for the first time.

The last thing you want is to adopt one of my friends and them not be the perfect match for your needs! You’ll be sad and so will the doggo.

To be a better dog parent, find out which of my canine pals take a little extra love and care (or maybe just some additional training).

1. Afghan Hound

“While I look regal, I do have a silly side that can become uncontrollable if I’m not trained properly. I can’t help that I get bored easily! When we go for a walk, make sure to not tug too hard on the leash or accidentally drop the leash. I can be a little stubborn at times, so let me go at my own pace. Basically, it’s my way or the highway.

Plus, I’m a super-duper fast runner and a good jumper (make sure your fences are at least six feet high).”

2. Dogue de Bordeaux

“Oui, oui! While my exterior is tough, I’m actually a warm and friendly pup. I can easily read your mood and it can actually rub off on me (I’m totally down for a girl’s night with rom coms and ice cream). Make sure to give me attention or else I’ll become jealous if I’m left out. Plus, you know how they say that pets and their owners look alike? I think it’s because of me! I’m good at picking up on your facial expressions. So, it is really not my fault that I have RBF.

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3. Australian Shepherd

“While I was bred to watch over livestock, my instincts to protect have grown over the years. With this, my need for attention has also grown. I can be a happy, go-lucky pup as long as you show me as much love and compassion as you would to your family. When you give attention elsewhere, I become sad and unhappy – I truly crave human interaction! Although I require additional attention, I’m pawsitive you’ll love my energetic self!

4. Rottweiler

“I promise I’m not as bad as people say that I am! Actually, I can be a sensitive and loving pup to you and your kids. I’m strong-willed but also affectionate (can we cuddle?).

Keep in mind that I don’t like it when you yell at me. I can become a little aggressive and bark back when you raise your voice (remember, I was bred to be a guard dog – it’s in my genes to protect). I might seem intimidating to some, but I really am a great doggo for people of all types!”

5. American Pit Bull Terrier

“Having a bad day? I’ll be right there to cheer you up! Even though there’s a stigma that me and my pitbull friends are dangerous, I promise you we’re not all bad apples. Most of us just take a little warming up. Once we’ve had a chance to meet you, we will never want you to leave! However, don’t bypass the obedience training.

My stubborn nature can make things difficult, but as long as you know how to enforce the rules, I’m a pretty good pup!”

6. Border Collie

“I don’t mean to be overly sensitive! I just care a lot about my humans. Whether you’re happy, sad, upset or annoyed, I can sense your mood. When training me, it’s important to use positive reinforcement. The old saying that ‘sticks and stones may break my bones, but words will never hurt me’ was totally wrong. Words do hurt my feelings! Be sure to watch your tone and avoid harsh language, or I’ll think I did something wrong (and maybe I did, but all dogs make mistakes!).

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7. Doberman Pinscher

“‘Like human, like dog’ – that’s the saying, right? As a loyal companion to my humans, I can sense what they’re going through. This means when everyone’s favorite Great Aunt Sally comes over for dinner, I’ll follow your lead. You don’t like her? Well, me either (please don’t leave me alone with her, or you’ll hear about it later)! And, while I am well-mannered, I sometimes don’t like sharing the attention with other pets (I have always wanted to be an only child).”

8. King Charles Spaniel

“Did you know I’m actually an interpreter of human feelings? As a lapdog, I can sense my humans’ emotions very easily.

However, because I understand feelings better than some of my doggo friends, I can be extra delicate. Make sure to not take your anger out on me. If I have done something wrong, try to be gentle and use positive reinforcement to get your point across. But with this cute of a face, how could I ever do anything wrong?”

9. Golden Retriever

“I’m the golden breed! I’m not wrong, it’s literally in my name. That’s why so many families choose pups like me to be their companions. We’re good at reading emotions and can tolerate a lot more shenanigans than other breeds, which is also why dogs like me are often used as therapy dogs.

I’m only looking to please, but be sure to be kind and give me love and attention in return. You won’t regret choosing me to be the light of your life!”

10. Labrador Retriever

“When you think of man’s best friend, you have to think of me! I’m a friendly pup that has a ton of personality. I’m a lover boy deep down inside and all I really want is for you to love me back. Be careful, though. If you raise your voice or hurt my feelings, I may withdraw from you. But doggone it, I’ll be there to protect my family! The pup who played ‘Old Yeller’ was a lab, and we know what happened to him. As a bonus, me and my friends come in three different colors: yellow, chocolate and black.”