The greyhound is the fastest breed of dog. It is capable of running at speeds of around 45 miles per hour. Greyhounds are excellent for hunting and racing, but they are notorious for laziness, often preferring to cuddle on a couch, rather than run. This makes them an ideal house pet.

The Lundehund is a breed which has lived solely on two islands in the north of Norway. The Lundehund has sever extra toes and paw cushions! That makes it excellent as a climbing dog, bred for rugged terrain. It also has the unusual ability to close its ears.

Alaskan Malamutes are known for being friendly and loyal. In fact, Chewbacca, the hairy Wookiee in the Star Wars movies and the name of the character of indiana Jones were both inspired by George Lucas' loyal dog Indiana, an Alaskan Malamute.

The first living being to travel in space was a small mixed breed dog named Laika, who gave her life orbiting the earth in the Russian Sputnik in 1957. John F. Kennedy's terrier, Charlie, sired 4 puppies with Laika's daughter, Pushinka.

French poodles were originally used as hunting dogs, but, because their thick coats proved a problem in the bush and water, their owners started clipping them. They left hair on the ankles to protect against rheumatism, which is why poodles sometimes appear to have unusual haircuts.

In the original 101 Dalmatians movie, Pongo has 72 spots, Perdita has 68 and each of the puppies has 32. Real dalmations have unique numbers and patterns of spots, almost like a human beigns fingerprint.