If you’re in the market for an Australian Shepherd make sure you understand what you are getting yourself in for. Originally bred to be actual herding dogs, these animals like to run. They must have daily long walks and the idea of being couped up all day inside a house is not very appealing to them.

If you are an apartment dweller, only consider an Aussie if you are confident you can take it out very nearly every single day. Failure to do so may cause the animal to suffer from anxiety disorders which inevitably lead to destructive behaviors. And no one wants to have to deal with that.

Another popular dog that families tend to shop for is the Rhodesian Ridgeback. These large, clean animals are the only dog breed to have been originated in South Africa. They were originally bred from Danes, Mastiffs, Greyhounds, Bloodhounds, Terriers, and a wild dog indigenous to the area.

It is their trademark hairline that runs along their spine in general opposite direction to the way the rest of their hair tends to grow. While originally designed to be hunting dogs, your family will be glad to know they are fiercely protective of their homes and the families that are their master.

Technorati Tags: Australian Shepherd, Rhodesian Ridgeback