What Your Dog Says About You

What Your Dog Says About You

Provided by Forbes

You can pick up after your pooch and make sure he plays nice, but it's your dog's breed that speaks volumes about what kind of owner you are.

That's because owners typically identify with animals that have similar personality traits, quirks and physical activity levels. To identify which breeds bestow which qualities, we asked the American Kennel Club (AKC) and the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty To Animals (ASPCA) for insight. Their answers are based on studies of breed behavior and the buying habits of pet owners.


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Poodle

America's choice for the next presidential dog, according to a recent survey conducted by the American Kennel Association, the poodle is the runway model of the canine world. This dog is highly intelligent and graceful. Poodle owners tend to be detail-oriented and appreciate art and culture. If you keep a poodle, it's likely that you also favor other classics like cars, paintings or wine, according to the AKC.


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English Bull Dog

You are a cut up, and your dog is lovable but mellow. Its pushed in nose tends to make it difficult to breathe in warmer weather, so don't expect a companion on long walks or hikes. Also, steer clear if you are overly fastidious, warns Daisy Okas, assistant vice president of communications at the American Kennel Club, as English bull dogs tend to snore and slobber.


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Dalmatian

You are a hard worker. Dalmatians are very active dogs who like to be given a task. They are great for families and a perfect companion for a jogger, hiker or outdoorsy type. They can be very protective. "Any owner must be willing to spend a lot of time exercising this dog," says Dr. Emily Weiss, Ph.D, certified applied animal behaviorist and senior director of shelter research and development at the ASPCA. They can be protective.


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Golden Retriever

We won't find you home on a Saturday night. The Golden Retriever is a social butterfly and ideal for active people. It is the fourth most popular dog in the U.S. due to its adaptability and even temperament, says Okas. Like you, the golden pooch is a sidekick and likes to always be around people.


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Chihuahua

You are a mischief-maker. These tiny dogs have a lot of energy and may have a hard time being home all day alone, Dr. Weiss says. If not given the proper attention, they can develop some bad behaviors and get themselves into trouble.


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Pit Bull

You are eager to please. "There is a misconception that these dogs are violent," says Dr. Weiss. "But they are actually very loyal companions."


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Cocker Spaniel

You are family oriented and nurturing. The Cocker Spaniel is a classic family dog. Gentle, playful and sweet, they are the perfect size for smaller children, according to the AKC. Owners of these dogs display the same affectionate qualities as their pups.


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Beagle

You are inquisitive and always willing to learn new things. The Beagle is constantly questioning. If you own one of these dogs, chances are you are a curious, willful person who is loyal to friends, tough on enemies and pretty stubborn, according to the AKC.


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Border Collie

You love the great outdoors. Border Collies are typically bred for outside jobs, according to the AKC. Owners of these pooches love to hike, bike, ski or climb.


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