USA Today ran a story today that highlighted the most popular dog breeds across America. You can read the entire article here: https://www.usatoday.com/picture-gallery/life/2019/08/08/german-shepherds-and-more-americas-most-popular-dog-breeds-ranked/39885089/

I am a dog owner . All of my dogs have been rescue dogs. I have a soft spot for rescue dogs (and cats) because they desperately need loving homes.According to the ASPCA there are approximately 6.5 Million animals that enter shelters each year across the USA. 3.3 Million are dogs and 3.2 Million are cats. Nearly 1.5 Million are euthanized each year, sadly. Those are staggering numbers. On a good note, 3.2 Million are adopted each year. If you are considering adding a dog or cat to your family please adopt!

My all-time favorite breed is the Australian Cattle Dog or Queensland Cattle Dog as they are sometimes called. They were bred to herd cattle by nipping them at the heels. My past two rescues have been this breed. (AbuChez and now, Stavros) I love them dearly. Here is what USA Today said about them. (They ranked 55th out of 101 on popularity.)

55. Australian Cattle Dogs • The Australian cattle dog is known for its agility. Bred to herd animals many times its size, it is not easily intimidated. The animal needs a lot of exercise — more than a daily walk — and mental stimulation. If not given enough to do it will not be happy.

CARMELKA / GETTY IMAGES

My Cattle Dogs have all been so intelligent and so personable. These wonderful companions are great at agility too. Stavros and I enjoy hiking and swimming. AbuChez and I swam and sometimes hiked too. If you want a beautiful, loving, smart, agile friend these dogs cannot be rivaled.

My darling AbuChez.

My Sweet Boy, Stavros.

AbuChez at my first housein Asheville, NC.