Doberman Pinschers
Part of the Blastoff! Readers: Dog Breeds series
Doberman Pinschers can be very intimidating dogs, but they are also loving and friendly. They became famous in World War I and World War II as messenger dogs and search and rescue dogs. Eager readers will learn about the physical characteristics of Doberman Pinschers and how these dogs-affectionately called Dobies-are used today.
Pomeranians
Part of the Blastoff! Readers: Dog Breeds series
Pomeranians look like cute little balls of puffy fur. Their history stretches back to the 19th century, when England's Queen Victoria made them a popular pet. Discover the history behind how these dogs became so small, what they like to do for fun, and the loving, protective nature Pomeranians show toward their owners.
Poodles
Part of the Blastoff! Readers: Dog Breeds series
Often thought of as a fancy and pampered breed, the Poodle hunts just as well as many other dog breeds. Young readers will find out where this breed came from and why it is a popular show dog around the world.
Collies
Part of the Blastoff! Readers: Dog Breeds series
Because of strong herding instincts, Collies often try to round up animals and people. The movie "Lassie Come Home" featured one of these dependable dogs and made Collies popular pets. Young children will discover why Collies are known for their close companionship.
Siberian Huskies
Part of the Blastoff! Readers: Dog Breeds series
Siberian Huskies are famous for pulling dogsleds and howling like wolves. With thick, layered hair, these arctic dogs are able to work and live in cold weather. Young learners will explore the history of the Siberian Husky from Artic dog to house pet.
Cocker Spaniels
Part of the Blastoff! Readers: Dog Breeds series
Cocker Spaniels were originally bred to perform a task called flushing. They fetch birds or other animals out of dense brush for hunters. Young readers will learn about the two main types of Cocker Spaniels, how they are used for hunting today, and why these energetic dogs make great family pets.
Beagles
Part of the Blastoff! Readers: Dog Breeds series
Bred in England to be hunting dogs, Beagles have a reputation for tracking game. They are a member of the hound family and possess an incredible sense of smell. Readers will explore the history of Beagles and why they make great workers and pets.
West Highland White Terriers
Part of the Blastoff! Readers: Dog Breeds series
West Highland White Terriers are friendly, fun-loving dogs with shiny, white coats. Once used for hunting, these dogs enjoy running in open spaces, chasing animals, and digging holes in the ground. Children will learn about the history of the breed and the activities Westies participate in today.
Border Collies
Part of the Blastoff! Readers: Dog Breeds series
The story of the Border Collie breed began with a fierce and intelligent sheepdog named Old Hemp. Today's Border Collies inherited Old Hemp's ability to herd sheep with slow, stalking movements and an intense stare. Read all about the Border Collie's history, its ability to herd sheep, and the importance of keeping this energetic dog active and entertained.
Chihuahuas
Part of the Blastoff! Readers: Dog Breeds series
Chihuahuas are small dogs with big personalities. A blend of the Chinese Crested and Techichi breeds, these travel-size dogs are popular pets in the United States today. Eager students will learn about the origins of the world's smallest toy breed!
Boxers
Part of the Blastoff! Readers: Dog Breeds series
Boxers are an alert, agile, and strong breed of dog. This makes them excellent guard dogs. Follow the history of the boxer breed from its development in Germany to its modern popularity as a family pet.
Pugs
Part of the Blastoff! Readers: Dog Breeds series
Pugs were a favorite breed of Chinese emperors and Tibetan monks. These dogs are skilled competitors and loyal partners who love to be challenged. Kids will explore the background and personality of the Pug breed.
Basset Hounds
Part of the Blastoff! Readers: Dog Breeds series
Known for their long, floppy ears and sad eyes, people may not know that Basset Hounds have an extraordinary sense of smell. These short-legged dogs were bred to hunt rabbits and are built to track scent trails on the ground. Young readers will learn about the history of Basset Hounds, how their physical features enhance their sense of smell, and how they use their noses today.
Yorkshire Terriers
Part of the Blastoff! Readers: Dog Breeds series
Yorkshire Terriers are a small, friendly, energetic breed of dog. They use their intelligence to perform well in agility and other dog sports. Students will learn the history, characteristics, and modern-day uses for this English dog breed.
Saint Bernards
Part of the Blastoff! Readers: Dog Breeds series
Saint Bernards make good search and rescue dogs because of their strong sense of smell. They are famous for saving people trapped in Europe's snowy Alps. Eager students will learn the history of the heroic Saint Bernard breed.
Shetland Sheepdogs
Part of the Blastoff! Readers: Dog Breeds series
Shetland Sheepdogs were first used to herd animals on farms in the Shetland Islands. Today, these dogs make great guard dogs, therapy dogs, and companion dogs. Students will learn about the many roles of Shetland Sheepdogs.
Rottweilers
Part of the Blastoff! Readers: Dog Breeds series
Rottweilers almost went extinct at one point in time. Now they are common pets. They were once used to pull carts in the German town of Rottweil, from which they got their name. This title will take kids through the long history of Rottweilers to the present day, where many people cherish Rotties as working dogs and pets.
German Shepherds
Part of the Blastoff! Readers: Dog Breeds series
German Shepherds have been used for a variety of work from seeing-eye dogs to bomb-sniffing police dogs. They also make fun, loving pets inside a home. Readers will discover the characteristics and the history of this versatile breed.
Bulldogs
Part of the Blastoff! Readers: Dog Breeds series
Bulldogs have flat, wrinkled faces and wear permanent frowns. These non-sporting dogs once fearlessly fought bulls in a sport called bull baiting. Young readers will track the history of Bulldogs from dangerous fighters to calm family pets.
Great Danes
Part of the Blastoff! Readers: Dog Breeds series
Did you know that a Great Dane named George holds the record for the world's tallest dog? Great Danes are large, graceful dogs that sometimes work as service dogs, assisting people who need help walking or balancing. Children will learn about the breed's physical characteristics, its history, and what this big dog is like as a pet.
Dachshunds
Part of the Blastoff! Readers: Dog Breeds series
With short legs and a slow speed, it's hard to imagine this short-legged breed was ever used for hunting. Students will explore the original purpose of the Dachshund, the physical characteristics of the breed, and what these long, skinny dogs are valued for today.
Dalmatians
Part of the Blastoff! Readers: Dog Breeds series
Dalmatians are known for their sleek white coats dotted with black spots. Extremely loyal and active, Dalmatians love to go on hikes with their owners and do other outdoor activities. Students will trace the Dalmatian's evolution from coach dog to faithful pet.
Golden Retrievers
Part of the Blastoff! Readers: Dog Breeds series
Known as one of the friendliest breeds of dog, Golden Retrievers make great house pets. They are popular for their ability to get along with people and are thus often used in roles that assist people. Kids will learn more about these smart, amiable dogs in this introduction to Golden Retrievers.
Labrador Retrievers
Part of the Blastoff! Readers: Dog Breeds series
Often considered the most popular dog in the world to own, Labrador Retrievers have a reputation as one of the most multi-talented breeds. Students will learn the history of the breed and what they are used for today.