At Promising Paws Inc, we know every dog is unique – but understanding breed traits can help adopters find the best match for their home, lifestyle, and family. Below you’ll find information about common breeds and what you can expect from them.

American Staffordshire Terrier (“Amstaff”)

Overview: Loyal, strong, and affectionate, Amstaffs are people-oriented and make wonderful family companions.
Energy Level: Moderate to high – they enjoy walks, play, and structured training.
Best For: Families or individuals looking for a devoted, people-loving dog.
Considerations: Consistent training and socialisation are important. May not suit homes with other pets.

Australian Cattle Dog (Blue/Red Heeler)

Overview: Bred for herding cattle, these dogs are highly intelligent, loyal, and hardworking.
Energy Level: Very high – they thrive with physical activity and mental stimulation.
Best For: Active homes, farms, rural properties, or adopters with time for training and exercise.
Considerations: Without structure, they can become bored and may herd children or chase moving objects.

Beagle

Overview: Friendly, curious, and cheerful, Beagles are excellent family dogs.
Energy Level: Moderate – they enjoy play and daily walks.
Best For: Families with kids, adopters who enjoy outdoor adventures.
Considerations: They follow their noses – secure fencing is a must.

Black Mouth Cur

Overview: A versatile working breed from the southern USA, Black Mouth Curs are protective, loyal, and affectionate with their families.
Energy Level: High – they enjoy running, hiking, and tasks that challenge them.
Best For: Active owners who enjoy the outdoors and want a loyal companion.
Considerations: They are natural guardians and may need careful socialisation with new people and pets.

Border Collie

Overview: Known as one of the most intelligent breeds, Border Collies thrive when given work or mental challenges.
Energy Level: Extremely high – they need vigorous exercise and stimulation.
Best For: Experienced owners, active families, or agility/obedience enthusiasts.
Considerations: Not suited for homes that can’t provide daily training and activity.

Border Terrier

Overview: A small but tough working terrier, Border Terriers are affectionate, energetic, and curious.
Energy Level: Moderate – they love play and regular walks.
Best For: Families or individuals looking for a smaller but active companion.
Considerations: They can have a strong prey drive and may chase small animals.

Boxer

Overview: Playful, goofy, and affectionate, Boxers are full of personality.
Energy Level: High – they need plenty of exercise and love interactive play.
Best For: Active families, especially with children.
Considerations: They can be stubborn, so consistent training helps.

Bull Arab

Overview: Originally bred in Australia for pig hunting, Bull Arabs are strong, loyal, and surprisingly gentle with families.
Energy Level: Moderate to high – they need daily walks and space to stretch their legs.
Best For: Families who want a large, protective yet affectionate dog.
Considerations: Early socialisation and training are essential due to their size and strength.

Bullmastiff

Overview: A large, powerful breed originally developed as a guard dog, Bullmastiffs are calm, loyal, and protective.
Energy Level: Moderate – daily walks and light exercise keep them happy.
Best For: Families wanting a gentle giant with natural protective instincts.
Considerations: They need space and careful training due to their size and strength.

Bull Terrier

Overview: Instantly recognisable with their egg-shaped head, Bull Terriers are playful, determined, and affectionate companions.
Energy Level: Moderate to high – they need daily walks and playtime.
Best For: Families looking for a quirky, fun-loving dog.
Considerations: They can be stubborn, so consistent training is important. They may not suit homes with small pets.

Chihuahua

Overview: Tiny but bold, Chihuahuas are full of character and loyalty.
Energy Level: Low to moderate – short walks and indoor play are often enough.
Best For: Apartment living, singles, or people wanting a small lapdog.
Considerations: They are fragile due to their size and may not suit homes with young children.

Coolie (Australian Koolie)

Overview: An Australian herding breed, Coolies are intelligent, energetic, and versatile working dogs.
Energy Level: Very high – they thrive on having tasks, training, and space to run.
Best For: Farms, rural properties, or very active adopters.
Considerations: Without work or activity, they may become frustrated or destructive.

Dachshund

Overview: Known as “sausage dogs,” Dachshunds are curious, bold, and affectionate.
Energy Level: Moderate – they enjoy play but are prone to back issues.
Best For: Families or individuals looking for a small but lively companion.
Considerations: Jumping or excessive stairs can harm their backs.

English Staffordshire Bull Terrier (“English Staffy”)

Overview: Similar to the Aussie Staffy but often smaller, English Staffies are affectionate, people-focused, and loyal.
Energy Level: Moderate to high – they love play and family interaction.
Best For: Families looking for a cuddly, people-loving dog.
Considerations: They may be wary of other dogs, so introductions are important.

Fox Terrier (Smooth/Wire)

Overview: Bright, lively, and fearless, Fox Terriers are full of energy and personality.
Energy Level: High – they need lots of play and activity.
Best For: Active families, agility enthusiasts, or people wanting a spunky companion.
Considerations: They can be headstrong and may not suit homes with small pets.

German Shepherd

Overview: Intelligent, loyal, and versatile, German Shepherds excel as both companions and working dogs.
Energy Level: High – they thrive with training and purposeful activity.
Best For: Active families, experienced dog owners, or those interested in training sports.
Considerations: They need strong leadership and socialisation.

Great Dane

Overview: Known as “gentle giants,” Great Danes are affectionate, loyal, and surprisingly calm indoors.
Energy Level: Moderate – daily walks are enough, though they love to stretch their legs.
Best For: Families with space for a large dog and a love for big cuddles.
Considerations: Shorter lifespan compared to smaller breeds, and they need plenty of room.

Greyhound

Overview: Surprisingly low-maintenance, Greyhounds are gentle, quiet, and love lounging.
Energy Level: Short bursts of high energy, followed by lots of napping.
Best For: Apartments or quieter households – they don’t need huge yards.
Considerations: They have thin coats and may need jackets in cold weather.

Irish Wolfhound

Overview: One of the tallest breeds in the world, Wolfhounds are gentle, patient, and affectionate giants.
Energy Level: Moderate – they enjoy walks but also lots of rest.
Best For: Families with large homes or properties, looking for a calm and loving giant.
Considerations: Like Great Danes, they have a shorter lifespan. Their size requires strong management.

Kelpie

Overview: An Australian working breed, Kelpies are energetic, intelligent, and happiest when they have a job to do.
Energy Level: Extremely high – they need daily activity and mental challenges.
Best For: Farms, rural homes, or adopters dedicated to agility, obedience, or high-level training.
Considerations: Without enough stimulation, they may become destructive or anxious.

Labrador Retriever

Overview: Labradors are friendly, intelligent, and eager to please. They’re one of the most popular family dogs worldwide.
Energy Level: High – they need daily exercise and love swimming, fetch, and walks.
Best For: Active families, homes with yards, people who enjoy outdoor activities.
Considerations: Without enough exercise, Labs may become destructive or overweight.

Maltese / Small Companion Breeds

Overview: Gentle, affectionate, and good for people wanting a lapdog.
Energy Level: Low to moderate.
Best For: Elderly adopters, apartment living, people looking for a quieter companion.
Considerations: Regular grooming is required to keep their coat healthy.

Poodle (Toy, Miniature, Standard)

Overview: Intelligent, active, and low-shedding, Poodles are highly trainable and versatile.
Energy Level: Moderate to high – depends on size, but they all enjoy play and activity.
Best For: Families or individuals looking for a smart, allergy-friendly breed.
Considerations: Regular grooming is required.

Rottweiler

Overview: Strong, confident, and loyal, Rottweilers are protective yet affectionate with their families.
Energy Level: Moderate – they enjoy daily exercise and mental challenges.
Best For: Experienced dog owners who can provide training and structure.
Considerations: Early socialisation is crucial due to their protective instincts.

Shih Tzu

Overview: Small, affectionate, and calm, Shih Tzus are wonderful lapdogs and companions.
Energy Level: Low to moderate – short walks and play are enough.
Best For: Apartments, seniors, or families looking for a gentle dog.
Considerations: Their coats require regular grooming.

Staffordshire Bull Terrier (“Staffy”)

Overview: Loyal, people-loving, and affectionate, Staffies are known as “nanny dogs” for their love of children.
Energy Level: Moderate to high – they enjoy play and daily walks.
Best For: Families looking for a people-oriented companion.
Considerations: They may not get along with all other dogs, so careful introductions are essential.

Yorkshire Terrier (“Yorkie”)

Overview: Small but spirited, Yorkies are known for their confidence and affectionate nature.
Energy Level: Moderate – they enjoy short walks and indoor play.
Best For: Apartments or small homes, people looking for a lively yet portable companion.
Considerations: Their long coats require regular grooming. Can be vocal and territorial despite their size.

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Remember: Every dog at our shelter has its own personality, regardless of breed. Our team will help you meet the dogs and match you with one that suits your lifestyle best.