The popular image that comes to mind when most people think “Beagle” probably involves a pack of them, baying wildly as they chase foxes hither and yon across the countryside. True enough, these dogs are commonly put to work as hunting dogs, but they’ll also make a super family pet.

If you’ve been living somewhere besides outer Mongolia of late, you’ve probably seen celebrities like Paris Hilton clutching these tiny, adorable dogs.

If you’re an allergy sufferer but are just dying to have a dog, you should consider owning a Bichon Frise. A charming, sporty little dog, their sole function is to be your friend — and boy, they do their job well.

The modern-day Cocker Spaniel is a gorgeous, graceful dog. It’s hard to believe they were bred for work purposes, long before being bred for their long, flowing coats.

Are you in the market for a smart, loyal and protective dog? If so, definitely consider buying a Rottweiler. Bred to be big working dogs, Rottweilers are very flexible in what they can do. The breed will faithfully guard their homes and, despite their size, consider themselves tiny lapdogs in comparison to their owners.

One look at the spoiled, well-groomed Standard Poodles making its rounds in the show ring, and you might just lose any respect you had for the breed. Yet if you look past the Westminster primping and pampering, it’s not hard to see that the Standard Poodle is one of the most intelligent breeds in the world. The dogs are considered to have the brain capacity of a three-year old human child — which is saying a lot, if you haven’t spent time with a three-year-old lately!

Yorkies are small dogs with big dog attitudes! These dogs know no size difference; they’re mentally as big and bad as the other guy. They’re so bold they’ve been know to take on Great Danes. Even so, don’t count the Yorkie out as a lap dog, they can cuddle with the best of ‘em.

Puggles are part of a new trend of “designer dogs,” like the schnoodle and the cockabiche. They are popping up in more places and are receiving more press at the moment than purebreds. They’re also commanding prices that rival and even exceed the prices of their full-blooded compatriots.

Goldendoodles, Labradoodles and Schnoodles — oh my. This is just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to “oodle” crossbreeds.

If you’re in the market for a dog with a bubbly personality and a strong desire to please, definitely consider a Labrador Retriever. It’s true, though, that these sizeable and exuberant dogs aren’t for everyone. Before purchasing one of these roly-poly little puppies, consider the pros and cons of the breed.