PetMall Encyclopedia
Browse published dogs breed profiles curated by the PetMall editorial desk.
178 breeds available
The Affenpinscher is a sturdy, monkey-like terrier-type toy breed known for its confidence and playful spirit. Despite its small size, it possesses a courageous heart and a loyal personality, making it a wonderful companion for Kiwi apartment dwellers or those with smaller sections.
The Afghan Hound is an elegant aristocrat with a dignified and aloof personality. Known for its striking, silky coat, this breed is a high-maintenance beauty that requires ample space to run and an owner dedicated to its complex grooming needs.
The 'King of Terriers', the Airedale is the largest of all terrier breeds. They are brave, hardworking, and highly intelligent, making them excellent partners for active Kiwi families who love tramping and outdoor adventures.
Originally a Turkish livestock guardian, the Akbash is a serious, protective, and independent breed. They are not suited for apartment living and thrive on large NZ lifestyle blocks where they can have a 'territory' to watch over.
Akitas are powerful, dignified dogs with a strong protective instinct. Originally from Japan, they are fiercely loyal to their owners but can be reserved with strangers. They are heavy shedders and require a dedicated owner who understands their strong personality.
A large, athletic molosser-type dog from Spain, the Alano is known for its tireless work ethic and serious temperament. They are best suited for rural NZ environments where they can engage in active work or high-intensity exercise.
Not a purebred, but a highly efficient sled dog. Alaskan Huskies are energetic, intelligent, and possess incredible stamina. They are perfect for NZ owners who enjoy high-intensity outdoor sports like bike-joring or mountain running.
A heavy-duty freighting dog, the Malamute is affectionate, friendly, and very strong. They are built for endurance rather than speed and thrive in the cooler regions of the NZ South Island.
A powerful, confident, and social breed. The American Bulldog is a versatile family companion that is both protective and gentle. They require an active owner who can provide structured training and exercise.
The American Bully is a compact, muscular companion-bred bull-type dog. In New Zealand it should be handled as restricted-breed-adjacent content: the breed name is not separately listed in Schedule 4, but American Pit Bull Terrier type assessment, council interpretation, import checks, housing, and public control can still be important.
The American Cocker Spaniel is a merry, affectionate companion spaniel with expressive eyes and a smaller, more heavily coated outline than the English Cocker. In New Zealand it suits owners who can manage coat care, ears, weight, and gentle training rather than families wanting a wash-and-go dog.
Intelligent, alert, and friendly. The American Eskimo Dog (or 'Eskie') is a beautiful spitz-type dog with a snowy white coat. They are highly trainable and make excellent watchdogs for Kiwi families.
The miniature version of the Eskie, offering the same intelligence and beauty in a more compact package. They are great for apartment living but still require plenty of interaction.
A scent hound known for its stamina and musical bark. They are easygoing but require significant exercise. Not recommended for suburban life unless the owner is an avid runner.
The American Pit Bull Terrier is a powerful bull-type dog profile that New Zealand owners should treat as legally sensitive. The American Pit Bull Terrier type is listed in Schedule 4 of the Dog Control Act, so import, council classification, muzzling, neutering, containment, and public handling must be checked before any ownership decision.
The American Staffordshire Terrier is a strong, people-focused bull-type terrier that needs experienced handling and clear legal awareness in New Zealand. It is not named as a separate Schedule 4 breed, but councils may assess Pit Bull type questions, and Auckland Council gives specific guidance on proving American Staffordshire Terrier status.
A versatile hunting dog that loves the water. They are smart, energetic, and have a unique curly coat. Perfect for NZ owners who enjoy duck hunting or trips to the local lake.
A massive, powerful guardian breed. Anatolians are independent, serious, and deeply loyal. They are bred to protect and are best suited for rural NZ lifestyle blocks where they have a job to do.
A smart, energetic Swiss mountain dog. Appenzellers are agile, hardworking, and very vocal. They make excellent working dogs or companions for very active Kiwi families.
Tough, courageous, and extremely hardworking. The 'Blue Heeler' is built for the rugged NZ farming environment. They are incredibly smart but can be one-person dogs and wary of strangers.
The Australian Kelpie is the legendary workhorse of the Australasian farming world. Known for their inexhaustible energy and superior intelligence, they are capable of working independently over vast distances. While popular on NZ farms, they are increasingly found in active urban households as loyal, high-stamina companions.
Despite the name, the 'Aussie' was developed in the US and is a versatile, high-energy herder. They are exceptionally smart, loyal, and possess a striking multicolored coat. They are 'velcro' dogs that need to be close to their humans and are best suited for active Kiwi families.
A spirited, refined toy breed with a gorgeous silky blue-and-tan coat. While small, they possess a true terrier personality—courageous and alert. They make excellent companions for apartment living or families in urban centers like Wellington.
Sturdy, spirited, and courageous. The Australian Terrier is a hardy small dog built to hunt vermin and snakes. They are loyal companions with a sense of humor and are much tougher than their small size suggests.
An elegant, tall sighthound from the Sahel region of West Africa. The Azawakh is a lean, muscular athlete built for speed and endurance. They are fiercely loyal and protective of their family but aloof with strangers.
The Barbet is a joyful, intelligent French water dog with a distinctive curly coat. They are versatile athletes and devoted companions who love to swim. Their friendly nature makes them excellent family dogs for active Kiwi households.
The 'barkless dog' of Africa. Basenjis are intelligent, independent, and fastidious. Known for their unique yodel (barroo) and lack of a typical doggy odor, they are an intriguing breed for experienced NZ dog owners.
A noble, low-slung scent hound from France. They are gentle, friendly, and possess a remarkable sense of smell. Known for their distinctive blue-mottled coat and long ears, they are calm companions with a stubborn streak.
The Basset Hound is the ultimate low-slung scent tracker. Famous for their mournful eyes and velvety ears, they are calm, devoted, and notoriously independent. While they enjoy a nap, they need regular activity to stay fit.
The Beagle is a merry, outgoing scent hound and one of NZ's most popular family breeds. They are highly social, active, and motivated entirely by their nose. While friendly, they can be vocal and have a mind of their own when on a scent trail.
The 'Beardie' is an exuberant, shaggy-coated herder with a charismatic personality. Known for their 'Beardie Bounce,' they are playful and intelligent, making them wonderful companions for active families who don't mind a bit of grooming.
A large, powerful French herding dog with a self-assured and protective nature. The Beauceron is intelligent and versatile, used for both herding and guardian work. They require a confident owner and plenty of space.
With a unique lamb-like appearance, the Bedlington is a graceful but courageous terrier. They are affectionate, playful, and less 'scrappy' than some other terriers, making them delightful house pets for modern NZ families.
The Belgian Malinois is an elite working dog known for extreme intelligence and intensity. Used by police and military worldwide, they are not for the average pet owner. They require a dedicated owner who can provide serious mental and physical work.
The Belgian Tervuren is an elegant, long-haired shepherd with a keen mind and strong work drive. They are versatile, intelligent, and form incredibly tight bonds with their owners. They thrive in active households that enjoy outdoor adventures.
A gentle giant from Switzerland with a calm and devoted nature. Bernese are famous for their tri-color coat and patient temperament, making them ideal family companions for those who have space for a large dog.
The Bichon Frisé is a cheerful, sturdy small dog with a playful disposition. Known for their white, curly double coat and dark eyes, they are happy, affectionate companions that adapt well to various living situations.
A large, powerful American scent hound with a determined trailing ability. They are friendly and easygoing but possess a loud, musical bark. Best suited for rural environments where they have space to roam.
The Bloodhound is a noble scent hound with unparalleled tracking abilities. Known for their wrinkled faces, long drooping ears, and calm demeanor, they are gentle giants who are ruled by their extraordinary sense of smell.
An athletic and muscular scenthound with a striking blue-ticked coat. Blueticks are friendly, smart, and devoted to their work. They possess a renowned 'cold nose' trailing ability and a distinctive baying voice.
The Boerboel is a large, powerful mastiff-type breed from South Africa, bred to protect the homestead. They are intelligent, reliable, and possess a strong protective instinct. While loyal to their family, they require a confident owner who can provide firm leadership and a secure environment.
The Border Collie is a workaholic genius. Bred for demanding farm work, they possess unmatched intelligence and stamina. They make brilliant companions for highly active families, but without a 'job' to do or sufficient exercise, they can become anxious and destructive. They are not suited for a sedentary lifestyle.
The Borzoi, or Russian Wolfhound, is an elegant, aristocratic sighthound known for its graceful build and calm, aloof personality. They are incredibly fast and possess a high prey drive, but indoors they are often quiet and dignified companions.
The 'American Gentleman,' the Boston Terrier is a smart, affectionate, and lively small breed. They are highly adaptable and make excellent companions for city living in Auckland or Wellington townhouses.
A powerful, rugged herding dog from Belgium, the Bouvier is known for its tireless work ethic and serious temperament. They are versatile, capable of herding, guarding, and pulling, making them excellent partners for active owners.
The 'clown' of the dog world, Boxers are exuberant, playful, and high-energy. They are famously patient with children and make wonderful family companions. They are intelligent athletes that require plenty of interaction and exercise.
A versatile hunting dog from the US, the Boykin Spaniel is smart, energetic, and loves the water. Known for its wavy chocolate coat, it is a devoted companion for active families and excels in retrieving tasks.
An ancient Italian pointer, the Bracco Italiano is an athletic, powerful hunter with a gentle and affectionate nature. They are intelligent and versatile, making them great companions for active Kiwi families who enjoy outdoor adventures.
A large, powerful French herding dog with a distinctive long, shaggy coat and a self-assured personality. Briards are intelligent, courageous, and loyal guardians that form very close bonds with their families.
An energetic, smart, and versatile gundog, the Brittany is known for its tireless work ethic and friendly nature. They are smaller than many pointers but possess incredible stamina, making them great tramping partners in NZ.
The 'Gladiator' of dogs, Bull Terriers are famous for their egg-shaped head and playful, mischievous personality. They are strong, muscular, and deeply loyal companions who love to be the center of attention.
The miniature version offers the same iconic look and spirited personality in a more compact package. They are courageous, fun-loving, and make excellent companions for active households in NZ urban areas.
A powerful, confident guardian breed, the Bullmastiff is independent, serious, and deeply loyal. They are bred to protect and are best suited for NZ owners who can provide a secure environment and confident leadership.
The Cairn Terrier is a hardy, spirited, and alert small dog originally from Scotland. Known for its weather-resistant coat and courageous personality, it is a wonderful companion for Kiwi families with active outdoor lifestyles.
An ancient, agile pariah dog from the Middle East, the Canaan Dog is alert, vigilant, and devoted to its family. They are intelligent and possess a strong territorial instinct, making them excellent watchdogs for NZ properties.
A massive, powerful Italian guardian breed, the Cane Corso is independent, serious, and deeply loyal. They are bred to protect and are best suited for rural NZ lifestyle blocks where they have a job to protect their home and pack.
The 'Corgi with the tail,' the Cardigan is a smart, athletic, and alert herding dog. They are low-slung but possess a lot of personality and are excellent companions for active Kiwi families who enjoy outdoor activities.
A multi-purpose working dog from Louisiana, the Catahoula is smart, energetic, and possesses a striking 'leopard' coat. They are versatile workers and devoted companions who thrive in active households with plenty of space.
A massive, powerful guardian breed from the Caucasus, the Ovcharka is independent, serious, and deeply loyal. They are bred to protect and are best suited for rural NZ lifestyle blocks where they can guard their home and flock.
The ultimate 'lap dog' with a heart of gold. Cavaliers are incredibly affectionate and adapt well to city apartments and urban NZ homes. They are social butterflies who love everyone they meet and crave human company.
The Cavoodle (or Cavapoo) is New Zealand's ultimate designer breed, perfectly blending the high intelligence and low-shedding coat of the Poodle with the sweet, endlessly affectionate nature of the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel. They are exceptional family dogs, incredibly eager to please, and thrive on being the centre of your world.
A tough, smart, and versatile water retriever, the 'Chessie' is known for its weather-resistant oily coat and tireless work ethic. They are more independent than other retrievers and make excellent tramping partners in NZ.
The Chihuahua is a tiny dog with a massive personality. Graceful, alert, and swift-moving, they are fiercely loyal to their owners. Perfect for apartment living in Auckland's CBD, they are 'purse dogs' that require surprisingly little exercise but a lot of companionship.
The Chinese Crested is an exotic, ultra-affectionate companion dog. Whether hairless or 'powderpuff' (with fur), they are playful, alert, and thrive on human touch. They are truly unique pets for dedicated owners.
Known for its unique wrinkles and blue-black tongue, the Shar-Pei is a dignified, independent, and deeply loyal guardian. They are calm dogs but can be suspicious of strangers, making them excellent watchdogs for NZ homes.
A rare American sled dog, the Chinook is a calm, patient, and friendly worker. They are known for their gentle disposition and intelligence, making them fantastic companions for active families who enjoy outdoor adventures.
Dignified and aloof, the Chow Chow is an ancient breed known for its lion-like mane and blue-black tongue. They are fiercely loyal to their family but can be very reserved with strangers. They are clean, quiet dogs suited for owners who respect their independent nature.
The 'Gentleman's Spaniel,' the Clumber is a heavy-boned, low-slung, and mellow companion. They are slower and more deliberate than other spaniels but possess a powerful nose and a kind heart. They are great for families who prefer a more relaxed pace.
The English Cocker is an energetic, joyful gundog with a constantly wagging tail. They are more rugged and active than the American variety, making them excellent companions for Kiwi families who love the outdoors.
The 'Royal Dog of Madagascar,' the Coton is a happy, vocal, and affectionate companion with a cotton-like coat. They are social butterflies that thrive on attention and are perfect for owners who want a true lap dog.
The iconic spotted athlete. Dalmatians are high-energy, intelligent, and dignified. Originally bred to run alongside carriages, they have incredible stamina and are best suited for very active Kiwi owners.
The Doberman is an elegant, powerful guardian known for its intelligence and loyalty. They are versatile working dogs and devoted family members. They require a confident owner and consistent mental stimulation.
The Dogo Argentino is a large, powerful hunting breed and a Schedule 4 breed under New Zealand dog-control law. New Zealand owners should treat this profile as legal and safety guidance first: import is prohibited for dogs belonging entirely or predominantly to the breed, and council menacing-dog rules may apply.
A versatile, intelligent, and athletic working dog. The Dutch Shepherd is a tireless worker often used for herding and police work. They are loyal and form tight bonds with their handlers.
The 'Gentleman of the Dog World,' the English Setter is an elegant, gentle, and athletic hunter. Known for their unique 'belton' speckled coat, they are sweet-natured and make wonderful family companions for active households.
A highly intelligent, versatile all-purpose farm dog. English Shepherds are alert, energetic, and possess a strong desire to work. They are devoted family members that thrive in rural or active urban environments.
The Springer is a joyful, energetic gundog built for long days in the field. Known for their 'springing' movement, they are friendly, smart, and deeply affectionate companions who love water and exploration.
A quiet, gentle, and aristocratic toy breed. While related to the Cavalier, they are smaller and more reserved. They are dedicated lap dogs that prefer a peaceful home environment.
An elegant, sleek toy terrier with a keen personality. They are alert, energetic, and possess the true spirit of a terrier in a tiny package. They make excellent companions for city living.
A calm, self-assured family companion from Germany. The Eurasier is a mix of Chow, Wolfspitz, and Samoyed, resulting in a loyal, balanced, and attractive dog. They are devoted to their family but reserved with strangers.
A docile, sensitive, and hardworking spaniel. Fields are level-headed and affectionate, making them great companions for active families who enjoy nature and tramping.
The Finnish Lapphund is a hardy, intelligent, and calm herder from the Arctic Circle. Known for their lush double coat and friendly 'smiling' face, they are devoted family members. In New Zealand, they are gaining popularity as versatile companions that can handle both the couch and the trail.
The 'Barking Bird Dog' of Finland, this breed is active, intelligent, and courageous. Known for their fox-like appearance and vibrant red-gold coat, they are alert watchdogs and lively companions for active Kiwi households.
The Frenchie is the king of NZ's urban dog scene. Comical, affectionate, and low-energy, they are perfect for modern apartment living. However, as a brachycephalic breed, they require careful health management and a dedicated owner.
German Pinscher — Known for: Alert, courageous, intelligent, energetic, confident, loyal. Origin: Germany.
The German Shepherd is a magnificent, highly versatile breed known for its courage, loyalty, and protective instincts. They form incredibly tight bonds with their families and excel in almost any canine job, from police work to assistance roles. They require a confident owner who can provide consistent guidance and leadership.
The GSP is an athletic, all-purpose hunting dog with immense stamina. They are friendly, smart, and willing to please, making them fantastic partners for active Kiwi families who enjoy tramping, running, or lake trips.
Rugged, resilient, and intelligent. The GWHP possesses a weather-resistant wiry coat that makes them the ultimate field dog for NZ's unpredictable climate. They are devoted companions that thrive in the outdoors.
The Giant Schnauzer is a powerful, imposing breed with a loyal and protective nature. Known for their distinctive beard and eyebrows, they are highly intelligent and require an experienced owner to guide their strong personality.
A hardy, low-slung terrier from Ireland. Known for their courage and docility, they are less 'scrappy' than other terriers. They are loyal companions that enjoy a relaxed pace but are always ready for a walk.
The quintessential Kiwi family favourite. Goldens are famous for their friendly, patient nature and love for life. They are highly social athletes that thrive on human interaction and are perfect for active NZ households.
A bold, confident hunter from Scotland, the Gordon Setter is known for its striking black-and-tan coat. They are the largest of the setters and possess incredible stamina, making them great companions for active owners.
The 'Apollo of Dogs,' the Great Dane is a gentle giant with a noble spirit. They are deeply affectionate and surprisingly low-energy indoors, making them great family members if you have the space for them.
A calm, dignified guardian from the Pyrenees Mountains. They are independent, serious, and deeply loyal to their family. Their thick white double coat makes them well-suited for the cooler regions of NZ.
The '45mph couch potato.' Greyhounds are elegant, low-energy indoors, and deeply affectionate. Many in NZ are retired racers looking for a second chance. They have very thin skin and feel the cold intensely.
A tiny dog with a massive personality and a human-like expression. Griffons are smart, alert, and deeply affectionate companions. They bond intensely with their owners and are perfect for apartment living.
An athletic, social, and energetic scent hound. Harriers are larger than Beagles but smaller than Foxhounds. They possess a keen nose and a loud, musical bark, making them excellent partners for active owners.
The 'Velcro dog' of Cuba, the Havanese is a smart, playful, and affectionate companion with a long, silky coat. They are social butterflies that thrive on human touch and are perfect for urban living.
The Heading Dog is a core New Zealand farm dog used to head, gather, and control sheep with eye, speed, and precise movement. It is closely associated with Border Collie ancestry but has been selected in New Zealand for practical station work. As a pet, it needs an experienced owner, mental jobs, and careful management of chasing and herding behaviour.
The Huntaway is one of New Zealand's signature working dogs: a powerful, vocal farm dog bred to move sheep across hills, gullies, and large paddocks. It is highly trainable and often affectionate, but it is not a low-maintenance suburban pet. A Huntaway needs space, jobs, recall, bark control, and an owner who understands working-dog energy.
Elegant, energetic, and joyful. Known for their striking mahogany coat and friendly personality, Irish Setters are the 'clowns' of the bird dog world. They are highly active and need plenty of space to run.
The 'Daredevil' of terriers, the Irish Terrier is brave, intelligent, and deeply loyal. Known for their fiery red coat and spirited personality, they are rugged companions for active Kiwi families who enjoy the outdoors.
The tallest of all dog breeds, the Irish Wolfhound is a gentle giant with a noble heart. They are calm, dignified, and deeply loyal family members who require significant space but have low indoor energy.
The Italian Greyhound is the smallest of the sighthounds—slender, elegant, and deeply affectionate. While they possess the speed of their larger cousins, they are primarily dedicated lap dogs. In New Zealand, they are prized as stylish apartment companions but are physically fragile and feel the cold intensely.
The Jack Russell Terrier is a small dog with a huge engine. It is popular in New Zealand because it is compact, tough, clever, and full of personality, but it is not a couch ornament. Owners need to manage digging, chasing, barking, recall, and terrier confidence from day one.
The Japanese Chin is a noble, cat-like toy breed known for its distinctive 'oriental' expression and silky coat. They are aristocratic, playful, and prefer a peaceful home environment. They are excellent companions for urban Kiwi living.
A popular choice for NZ families, the Japanese Spitz is a bright, cheerful, and loyal companion with a stunning white double coat. They are alert watchdogs (vocal!) and incredibly affectionate with their family members.
The 'Smiling Dutchman,' the Keeshond is a medium-sized spitz breed with a spectacular plush coat and a friendly, outgoing personality. They were bred as barge dogs and are deeply devoted to their family pack.
The Komondor is a massive, powerful Hungarian livestock guardian famous for its white, corded coat that resembles a mop. They are serious, independent, and protective, requiring an experienced owner and plenty of space.
The Kooiker is a small, athletic Dutch spaniel-type dog with a cheerful and alert personality. They were originally bred to lure ducks into traps and are highly intelligent, agile, and devoted to their owners.
A large, powerful guardian from Hungary with a striking white coat. The Kuvasz is independent, intelligent, and fiercely loyal. They are natural protectors and best suited for rural NZ lifestyle blocks.
The ultimate Kiwi family dog. Labradors are kind, outgoing, and eager to please. They are famous for their 'bottomless pit' appetite and their love for water, making them the most popular breed in New Zealand.
The Italian 'Truffle Dog,' the Lagotto is a medium-sized, curly-coated athlete. They are intelligent, affectionate, and possess an extraordinary sense of smell. They are low-shedding, making them popular with NZ allergy sufferers.
A bold, friendly, and confident terrier from the English Lake District. Lakelands are sturdy athletes with a lot of personality. They are rugged companions for active families who enjoy outdoor adventures.
A gentle giant from Germany, the Leonberger is a calm, patient, and deeply affectionate family member. They were bred as versatile working dogs and swimmers, making them great partners for Kiwi lake life.
Originally from Tibet, the Lhasa Apso is a hardy, independent, and watchful companion with a long, dense coat. They are aloof with strangers but deeply loyal to their family, acting as effective indoor watchdogs.
The Maltese is a gentle, fearless, and playful toy breed with a stunning white silky coat. They are ancient lap dogs that thrive on human attention and are perfect for apartment living in NZ cities.
Sleek, smart, and spirited. The Manchester Terrier possesses the keen mind of a ratter and the speed of a sighthound. They are alert companions for active owners who enjoy a clean and compact pet.
A massive, dignified, and gentle giant. The English Mastiff is courageous and devoted but generally very low-energy indoors. They are protective of their family and require a confident, calm leader.
The 'King of Toys,' the Min Pin is a fearless, energetic, and assertive companion. Despite their small size, they have a massive personality and are always on the move. They are excellent watchdogs for urban homes.
The Miniature Schnauzer is a smart, square, bearded small dog that suits many New Zealand homes when grooming, barking, and weight are managed. It is friendly and trainable, but still has watchdog instincts and a busy mind. Regular coat care and dental care are part of normal ownership.
A massive, sweet-tempered working dog from Canada. Famous for their swimming ability and 'nanny dog' reputation, Newfoundlands are gentle giants who are deeply devoted to their human families.
A hardy, spirited, and social terrier with dropped ears. Norfolk Terriers are active, intelligent, and less independent than some other terriers. they make wonderful companions for active families in NZ.
A bold, energetic, and hardy hound from Norway. Originally bred to hunt elk, they are brave watchdogs and loyal family members. Their thick silver-grey coat is perfect for the cooler regions of NZ.
A unique and agile spitz breed from Norway, the Lundehund is famous for its physical flexibility and ability to climb cliffs. They are alert, energetic companions with an intriguing history as puffin hunters.
Small but substantiative, the Norwich Terrier is a hardy, spirited, and affectionate hunter. They are one of the smallest terriers but possess a massive personality, making them ideal for active NZ families with smaller backyards.
The 'Toller' is an intelligent, high-energy athlete built for retrieving. They are the smallest of the retrievers but possess incredible stamina. They are perfect for active Kiwi households that enjoy lake trips and mountain tramps.
Famous for its shaggy coat and 'bear-like' gait, the Old English Sheepdog is a gentle, intelligent, and playful companion. They are devoted family members that require significant grooming commitment but offer endless love.
A healthier, more athletic version of the modern Bulldog. The 'Olde' is strong, confident, and friendly. They are great companions for those who love the Bulldog look but want a dog capable of more activity.
Known for its butterfly-like ears, the Papillon is a highly intelligent, elegant, and energetic toy breed. They are not typical lap dogs; they are tiny athletes that excel in agility and love mental challenges.
The Pekingese is a regal, independent, and dignified lap dog with an ancient history. Known for their 'lion-like' mane and flat face, they are loyal companions that prefer a more relaxed lifestyle.
Low-slung but high-energy, the Corgi is a smart, athletic herding dog and a Kiwi favourite. They are alert watchdogs, affectionate family members, and possess a huge personality in a compact body.
The Perro de Presa Canario is a very powerful guardian-type breed and is named in Schedule 4 of New Zealand's Dog Control Act. For Kiwi owners, the first questions are legal status, import prohibition, council classification, secure containment, and calm public handling.
Elegant, athletic, and ancient, the Pharaoh Hound is known for its incredible speed and unique ability to 'blush'. They are independent thinkers but deeply affectionate with their family.
An athletic, intelligent, and courageous scent hound. The Plott is known for its stamina and unique brindled coat. They are dedicated workers and loyal companions for active households.
The ultimate athletic hunter, the Pointer is known for its tireless work ethic and friendly nature. They are exceptionally smart and possess incredible stamina, making them great tramping partners in NZ.
The Pomeranian is a tiny, extroverted toy breed with a glorious double coat and a bold personality. They are alert watchdogs and deeply affectionate companions that thrive on attention.
Intelligent, elegant, and athletic. The Miniature Poodle is a versatile athlete with a low-shedding coat. They are highly trainable and make wonderful companions for urban NZ living.
The Standard Poodle is a highly intelligent, athletic, and affectionate dog originally bred as a water retriever. They are known for their low-shedding coat and exceptional trainability, and they thrive with an active, engaged owner.
The smallest of the Poodles, offering the same intelligence and beauty in a tiny package. They are dedicated lap dogs that are incredibly smart and alert, perfect for modern apartment living.
The Pug is a comical, affectionate, and mischievous companion. Known for their flat faces and curly tails, they are the ultimate lap dogs. However, they come with significant health considerations that require a dedicated owner.
Famous for its unique corded coat, the Puli is an agile, energetic, and intelligent herder from Hungary. They are loyal watchdogs and active companions that require mental stimulation.
The Pumi is an energetic, intelligent, and vocal herder with a whimsical expression and curly coat. They are versatile athletes that thrive on having a 'job' to do and are perfect for active families.
An athletic, intelligent, and versatile terrier. Rat Terriers are energetic workers and devoted companions with a strong desire to please. They are excellent watchdogs and love to be part of the family.
An athletic, intelligent, and courageous scent hound with a striking red coat. Redbones are dedicated workers and loyal companions known for their stamina and musical bark.
The 'Lion Dog' of Africa, the Ridgeback is a large, powerful, and dignified athlete. They are independent and protective of their family, making them excellent guardians for NZ homes with plenty of space.
A calm, confident guardian. Rottweilers are deeply devoted to their families but can be reserved with strangers. They need a job and a confident leader. In New Zealand, they are respected family protectors that require structured training and ample space.
The Rough Collie is the long-coated classic collie: elegant, gentle, intelligent, and devoted. It can be a superb New Zealand family companion when owners are ready for coat care, socialisation, training, and genetic health awareness. The beautiful coat needs real maintenance, and the sensitive temperament suits kind handling.
A tiny, elegant dog with a big personality. The Russian Toy is lively, cheerful, and deeply affectionate. They are perfect for NZ apartment dwellers who want a portable and spirited companion.
The 'Gentle Giant' of the Swiss Alps. Saint Bernards are famous for their patient and kind nature. They are massive dogs that require significant space but are relatively low-energy indoors.
The 'Royal Dog of Egypt,' the Saluki is an elegant, independent sighthound. They are incredibly fast and possess a high prey drive, yet are often quiet and dignified companions indoors.
The 'Smiling Sammy,' famous for its stunning white coat and friendly personality. Samoyeds are social, intelligent, and energetic dogs that thrive on being part of family activities.
The 'Little Black Devil,' the Schipperke is an agile, alert, and mischievous companion. Originally bred as canal boat dogs, they are curious explorers with a lot of energy in a small package.
A noble, large sighthound with a rough coat. Scottish Deerhounds are gentle, dignified, and courageous. They are quiet indoors but need space to run and are devoted family members.
The 'Scottie' is a spirited, independent, and dignified terrier. Known for its distinctive profile and courageous personality, it is a loyal companion for those who appreciate a dog with a mind of its own.
A sturdy, courageous, and social terrier from Wales. Sealyhams are alert, intelligent, and less independent than some other terriers. They make wonderful companions for active families in NZ.
The 'Sheltie' is an intelligent, agile, and alert herder from the Shetland Islands. Known for their lush double coat and eagerness to please, they are devoted family members and excel in dog sports.
A spirited, independent, and fastidious breed from Japan. Shibas are loyal to their owners but can be aloof with strangers. Their fox-like appearance and clean habits make them popular in NZ.
The 'Lion Dog,' the Shih Tzu is an affectionate, playful, and charming lap dog. Known for their long, silky coat and friendly personality, they are perfect for apartment living in NZ cities.
Energetic, intelligent, and friendly. Siberian Huskies are built for endurance and have a strong desire to run. They are social pack animals and perfect for active Kiwi owners who enjoy high-intensity outdoor sports.
A refined toy breed with a true terrier personality. Silky Terriers are courageous, alert, and affectionate. They make excellent companions for city living and are always ready for an adventure.
The Smooth Collie has the classic collie outline and gentle intelligence in a short, practical coat. It is a thoughtful family and training dog that suits owners who want a responsive companion without the heavy grooming load of a Rough Collie. Sensitivity, socialisation, and health screening still matter.
A spirited, courageous, and energetic terrier. Smooth Fox Terriers are intelligent athletes with a lot of personality. They are rugged companions for active families who enjoy outdoor adventures.
A joyful, spirited, and affectionate terrier from Ireland. Known for its silky wheat-coloured coat and 'Wheaten Greet,' they are dedicated family members and less scrappy than other terriers.
A versatile, intelligent, and athletic working dog. Spanish Water Dogs are tireless workers with a distinctive curly coat. They are loyal and form tight bonds with their handlers, perfect for NZ lake life.
A sturdy, rugged, and gentle hunter from Italy. Spinoni are famous for their patient and kind nature. They are athletic dogs that require regular exercise but are calm companions indoors.
The 'Nanny Dog' of NZ. Staffies are incredibly loyal, muscular, and full of life. They crave human contact and are famous for their 'Staffy smile'. They are typically softies at heart and perfect for families.
Spirited, alert, and intelligent. With their distinctive beard and eyebrows, they have a lot of personality. They are great watchdogs but generally friendly with people they know well.
The 'Viking Dog,' the Swedish Vallhund is a small, powerful, and fearless herder. They are energetic, intelligent, and possess a long, low-slung body. In NZ, they are gaining a following as versatile companions for active families who want a big dog personality in a compact frame.
An ancient, athletic, and intelligent breed from Thailand, known for the ridge of hair running along its back. They are independent thinkers, fiercely loyal to their family, and possess strong protective instincts. Not recommended for first-time owners.
A massive, powerful, and noble guardian. The Tibetan Mastiff is independent, serious, and deeply devoted to its family. They were bred to guard livestock in the Himalayas and are best suited for rural NZ lifestyle blocks with experienced owners.
Smart, assertive, and aloof, the 'Tibbie' is a charming companion with a lion-like appearance. They were bred as monastery watchdogs and remain vigilant, making them excellent indoor alert dogs for modern Kiwi homes.
The 'Holy Dog of Tibet,' this is not actually a terrier but a medium-sized shaggy-coated companion. They are smart, sensitive, and possess unique 'snowshoe' paws. They are agile athletes and devoted family members.
Sleek, smart, and spirited, the Toy Fox Terrier is a tiny athlete with the heart of a big dog. They are energetic, alert, and deeply affectionate companions that are perfect for active apartment living in Auckland or Wellington.
The 'People's Choice' of coonhounds, the Treeing Walker is an athletic, vocal, and intelligent athlete. Known for their incredible speed and stamina, they are friendly companions best suited for very active households with space.
The 'Velcro Vizsla,' known for being incredibly affectionate and needing to be near their humans. They are athletic, sensitive, and intelligent hunters. Perfect for active Kiwi families who run, hike, or spend time in the bush.
The 'Silver Ghost,' the Weimaraner is an elegant, athletic gundog with immense stamina. They are friendly, smart, and possess a strong desire to be with their pack. They are perfect for active owners who enjoy the NZ outdoors.
The West Highland White Terrier, or Westie, is a sturdy small white terrier with confidence, charm, and a strong sense of self. It can fit many New Zealand homes, but owners need to manage skin care, grooming, barking, digging, and prey drive. A Westie is small, not soft or silent.