Monday, July 29, 2013
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Monday, March 4, 2013
Top 10 NES Games of All Time
People love these top 10 lists and it seems like the NES one has been done to death. Well I'm doing one anyways. This one includes my personal favorites. I set a couple ground rules before picking them. First, I am only picking one game per franchise. Second, I am picking games that are still just as fun when you go back and play them. I've been playing a decent amount of NES games lately and a lot of games just aren't as fun as I remember them, while others are even more fun. Don't like my list? Create your own, or leave me a comment explaining why I am wrong.
#10 - Bionic Commando (1988)
Bionic Commando is great. However it can be frustrating as hell. The premise is fantastic... kill Nazis (including a resurrected Hitler) while swinging around on your bionic arm. The game recently received a face lift on XBLA. I strongly suggest downloading it as its worth every penny. The game also has fantastic music, and the mini stages break the game up into side scrolling and top down angles.
Top 10 NES Games of All Time
The controls are a little rough though, You cant jump, and the swinging has to be timed perfectly. Without going on a mini-rant here, I don't think this game would be a hit in today's gaming culture. Games are just too easy now and people don't have the patience for timing, and starting back at the beginning. Hopefully the resurrection of these games in HD on XBLA will bring to light the greatness of these games to younger audiences.
#9 - Rygar (1987)
Rygar has a soft spot in my heart because I feel like I am one of only a few people that actually beat this game. You see, this game contained no save system, and no password system. You have to play this game straight through or else you start from the beginning. Its fucked up.
However, this game progresses so well. The gameplay is fantastic, and your main weapon is rotating blades on a chain. I dedicated a full day with one of my cousins when we were young to beating this game and once we did it was the biggest sense of accomplishment I have gotten out of any NES game.
That said, please only place this game on an emulator or a 100% functional NES console. If your console freezes up, or just stops working for whatever reason (and we all know that happens often), you will have to start from the beginning.
I suggest staying far away from the PS2 and Wii sequels though.
#8 - Battletoads (1991)
Speaking of frustrating games, Battletoads kicked my ass. This game was released to rival the success of Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles. It is a fantastic game with amazing graphics and especially amazing animation for the NES. The controls were fantastic and the attacks were varied. It was always fun to end a combo with an over sized fist to the face, oversized boot to the gut, or ramming them with over sized ram horns that inexplicably grew out of your toad for that split second.
These toads were on roids, and This game blew Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles out of the water. The villains were funny, and the evil queen was hot. This game was perfectly marketed to my age group. I was 12 years old when it came out, and the toads names were Rash, Zitz, and Pimple. Such immaturity always has appealed to me (and hopefully always will)
HOWEVER, when you get to the speed bike level, you should put padding over anything breakable around you because you will be wanting to throw your controller. One hit and you are dead, and you must memorize EVERY MOVE!!! Its like fighting Mike Tyson. Just look at this level below. Check about 3 minutes in for the really fun part.
#7 - Tecmo Super Bowl (1991)
Is it possible for a game to get more fun over time? If so, this is definitely the best example. Such simple brilliant gameplay, and impossible to stop zig zagging make this one a classis. I play this game nowadays more often than any other game on my list, and there is a reason that it is the only sports game to make the cut. Its just plain FUN!
It also has the official NFL license (something the recent Nintendo DS version is missing). This game holds a special place in my heart because its so old the Buffalo Bills were actually a good team back then. It seems like half the team is current or future Hall of Famers (including the coach and owner).
Every seems to think they have this game figured out. Some of my friend have "banned plays". Everyone has their go-to defensive guy, everyone thinks they get into your head and can pick your play. Everyone thinks they know how to block extra points (hint: YOU CANT!!).
All this is what makes this game so awesome. Its a pick up and play game that can get as intense as you want it to be. There is only one constant with this game..... I always win, and the Bills are always awesome.
#6 - Ninja Gaiden (1989)
From the look of my list so far, I have been picking some pretty damn hard games. This one just may take the cake though. This game will kick your ass.
A hard game could never be so good if it didn't have fantastic controls. The controls of the NES Ninja Gaidens are super tight. The levels are nice and varied and the sub weapons are awesome. I love playing jump rope with the big orange shooting star.
The bosses in this game are tough as shit too. The game has great sound and visuals and was the first game I remember to have really quality cinematic cutscenes.
This franchise is still alive and well on the Xbox 360 and Nintendo DS. The games sure didnt get any easier. In fact the Xbox 360 games took a step up in their difficulty.
#5 - Mega Man II (1989)
This franchise never seems to die, with only Sinic the Hedgehog cranking out as many shitty games as Mega Man.
Its odd to see a video game series to reach its peak so early in its life cycle, especially with so many games. That's just what happened with Mega Man though,
Mega Man II is by far the best in the series (some would argue III is better, and I will agree that it is also a good choice). This game isn't as hard as previous games on my list, although it still offers a nice challenge. A game that would give you so many different weapons was a nice change for an NES game. It played a little like an RPG since you would constantly be leveling your character up.
The controls were fantastic in this game as well, and the soundtrack is commonly referred to as one of the best of all time.
I am anxious to play the new Mega Man game that was release on XBLA and WiiWare. I have heard good things, and can appreciate the old school throwback.
In case you haven't noticed, the box art is also incredible awesome.
#4 -Kid Icarus (1987)
The big mystery for me about this game, is how in the hell has it been 22 years without a sequel?
Kid Icarus is such a fantastic game. It has never made any sense to me though. Why are we an angel fighting floating grim reapers and blue penguins? Better question... "who cares?"
I'm sure like really old NES games, the story is in the manual, but who the hell reads the manual anyways? All I knew is that this game kicks ass. Its excellent platforming, character progression, dungeons, flying stages, and laser arrows shot into Medusa's ugly face.
This was another game that I beat completely and felt an extreme sense of accomplishment doing so. This game is similar to Rygar with its mythological themes, strengthening of your character, good control, and difficulty. However, this game is better, AND you don't have to start at the beginning each time. Kid Icarus is one of those password games. You start by entering the worlds longest password consistent of upper case, lower case and numbers. On the 5th try of reading your own handwriting you are bound to get it right.
Now please make this game into a Mario Sunshine like 3d game. Nintendo would have another instant hit on their hands.
#3 - The Legend of Zelda (1987)
You could kind of tell from the beginning how awesome this game was going to be. It came in a golden cartridge.
When The Legend of Zelda was released, nothing like it has ever existed. There was no category for the game. Of course that's different now, but not only was this game fantastic, but it was the pioneer of an entire genre. The pacing of this game was fantastic and became a staple for (in my opinion) the greatest franchise in video game history.
Every Zelda game follow the same pattern:
-Explore and find out where the danger is
-Enter dungeon
-Find unique weapon in dungeon
-Use weapon to access new places and to kill boss
-Get whatever the special item is for that game (in this case, the Triforce)
It just works so well. The best thing about this game is that its not even the best game in the franchise, in fact, its probably not even in the top 5. That how good this franchise is.
#2 - Super Mario Brothers 3 (1990)
This is probably hands down the best game on the NES. Its typically on top of everyones list in these top 10s. However, I have one other game that's a favorite of mine. Perhaps I am just trying to break the mold, perhaps I am just bring a douche. In fact, its probably a little from column A, a little from column B.
Debuted in a terribly awesome movie, The Wizard, Super Mario Brothers 3 smashed all the hype surrounding it. From top to bottom, this game is just amazing. It took everything great about the first 2 Marios and took them up about 10 levels. Introduced in Super Mario 3 were 'suits'. You could be a raccoon (tanooki), a raccoon that turned into a statue, a frog, a boot, a hammer brother. etc.... You can even fly with your raccoon. The game gad shortcuts galore. The levels are divided into worlds. The worlds couldnt possibly be any more varied.
The bosses were Bowser's kids. They would fly over each worlds castles in their flying wooden ships, and eventually in their wooden convoy of tanks. The more I think about this game, the more I realize how great it was. Before I change my mind, i need to get to my favorite NES game.......
#1 - Blaster Master (1988)
OK, before you trash me on this pick, hear me out. I'm sure you can all agree that the previous games on my list are all fantastic in their own ways.
Now, Blaster Master takes all my favorite things from the previous games on my list and uses them in the game. For example, like Zelda, you can visit previous areas at will and explore for areas that you could not previously access. Like Mega Man, you gain abilities from bosses you defeat. Like Rygar and Bionic Commando, you play from both a side scrolling and top down perspective. Like Rygar, Ninja Gaiden, and Battletoads, this game is HARD! Like all previous games on the list, the game has fantastic controls.
Combine all this, and throw in a tank that can jump, and you have Blaster Master. What an awesome game. The graphics are great in both side scrolling and top down views. When playing from the side scrolling angle, you control a tank, however you can exit the tank at will. The scale of the levels are evident when your tiny guy hops out.
In a perfect world, they will give Blaster Master the Bionic Commando style face lift for XBLA.
This list was tough to come up and I'm sure most of you don't agree with me. There were several that barely didn't make the cut, like Duck Tales, Metroid, Contra, Mike Tyson's Punch Out, Castlevania, etc..... Its tough narrowing it down.
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Full article (images/video) [http://www.armchairculture.com/backstage/gaming/116-thrillhos-top-10-nes-games.html]
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Monday, February 25, 2013
Top Ten Colognes
The Top Ten Most Popular Colognes
From classy fragrances to trendy designer labels, the most popular colognes portray individual personalities. The choices include fresh scented or natural fragrances, spicy scents, and wispy clean or musky aromas that suit a wide spectrum of individual tastes.
Each style of cologne contains a unique character that creates a pleasing reaction for some people but may seem repelling to others. The true test comes when the fragrance is applied to check body chemistry and evaluate the lingering effect of the cologne. Packaging and name recognition also add to the complexity of choosing the best men's cologne but a few popular products continue to make the top ten list.
Top Ten Colognes
Many types of cologne have been in production for years and patrons who purchase these fragrances are often resistant to change. The combination of enjoying the scent and receiving complements triggers the desire to continue to use these classic fragrances. Buyers in this category will often pay more for the product because of the lasting value and consistent quality.
The Top Classic Colognes
1. Aqua Di Gio by Armani has been a worldwide top seller since 1995. Considered a casual fragrance, the main notes include citrus, rosemary and jasmine. Any product by Armani appeals to the well-dressed and meticulous consumer.
2. Burberry Touch by Burberry, known for high quality clothing and coats, attracts buyers who enjoy a noticeable yet classic fragrance. The scent combines spicy notes like nutmeg and vanilla with a subtle musky tone. Consumers who enjoy this cologne prefer an invigorating and lasting fragrance that is easily recognized as a Burberry product.
3. Dolce & Gabbana for Homme won awards after its release in 1994 and still ranks in the top selling categories. Truly masculine, the tones of this fragrance include woods, spices and tobacco. This cologne creates an elegant and sophisticated appeal and may be a popular choice for a dressy occasion.
The Top Celebrity Designer Colognes
It seems that most men's clothing designers, once they reach a level of fame, often attach their name to a new type of cologne. The marketing techniques for signature fragrances often create sales regardless of the scent because of the celebrity identification or packaging techniques. To remain fresh, designers with proven classic fragrances add a slight variation in fragrance or a new package and color to the group. Consumers who prefer designer label products may pay mid-range prices for the cologne and remain loyal to the fragrance.
4. Obsession by Calvin Klein takes male sexuality off the charts. This classic designer fragrance set a new standard in marketing and the overall appeal of the product continues to thrive. From the smooth round bottle to the infusion of intense scents, this cologne reeks of masculinity. Musk, sandalwood and patchouli create an interesting blend with lighter mandarin and bergamot.
5. Polo Black by Ralph Lauren is a new twist on the classic Polo fragrances popular during the 1980s. The sleek black bottle with a silver logo and cap looks elegant on any dresser or countertop. This fragrance releases a somewhat sweeter and more intense result than other Polo scents and holds tones of mango and patchouli.
6. Dior Homme by Christian Dior follows the sophisticated expression of this signature designer. A combination of unusual tones including cocoa and sage mix with a faint floral hint to make this product appealing to women looking for a man's gift.
7. Bvlgari Black by the designer Bvlgari warrants international appeal and is a simple fragrance to wear. The clean tones of juniper, cedar and sandalwood offer a relaxing scent and the cool blue cologne is casual yet elegant and sexy.
Top Colognes for the Younger Crowd
Younger buyers tend to prefer lighter or more natural fragrances. Packaging techniques such as bright colors, trendy designs and familiar characterization such as motorcycles, cars or sports activities draws attention to the product and creates a younger point of view. Price considerations in this group are often lower because of limited budgets. Younger cologne buyers may be somewhat fickle and jump from one type of fragrance to another. Fortunately, new twists on well known products continue to make the cologne market interesting for all age groups.
8. Blue Jeans by Versace. As the name implies, young men feel comfortable wearing cologne that signifies a casual and relaxed lifestyle. This affordable fragrance carries a designer image so it is also a favorite with young professionals for weekend wear.
9. Cool Water by Davidoff International is popular among outdoor enthusiasts who want a refreshing scent after a day in the woods or on the track. A combination of oaky scents paired with natural aromas such as sage and rosemary create a pleasant fragrance that appeals to many men. The masculine appeal of packaging and the non-offensive scents add to the popularity of this product.
10. Angel by Thierry Mugler works well for casual wear and seems to appeal to a wide range of consumers making it one of the top sellers. The fragrance projects a light and clean appeal with mint, lavender and coffee, an interesting addition. The low pricing and wide availability also add to the popularity of this product.
How to Select the Best Cologne for You
Fragrance: If the first impression of the scent is not pleasing, it's better to move on to another product. Normally cologne changes somewhat when applied but the initial and underlying tones will always be present and may get ber. There are definite differences between a casual, daytime fragrance and one that is heavier and should be worn on a special evening. If the cologne wearer uses a fragrance every day, a lighter scent is a better choice particularly for an office or close quarters environment.
Packaging: If the cologne is intended to be displayed, an attractive bottle will be appreciated. Men's colognes typically are packaged in subtle colors of black, silver, tan or browns but for a younger man, a fun design in orange or red works well. Cool colors such as blues and greens normally appeal to any age buyer. Colorful bottles in trendy or elegant shapes such as triangles or asymmetrical geometrics get noticed at the fragrance shop and look great at home.
Overall Appeal: Colognes vary according to overall tone and some products reflect seasonal qualities. A musky, heavier scent with woodsy tones is a good bet for winter while the remembrance of a sea breeze is appreciated during the summer months. Many products coordinate with a feminine perfume and some types of colognes are designed as unisex products.
Although choosing cologne becomes a personal preference, there are three basic factors to consider for anyone buying for a friend or family member.
The first priority should always include a "sniff" test followed by an application if possible to see how the product agrees with body chemistry.
Next in line is matching a style and design to suit individual taste.
The final consideration, other than price, revolves around the overall appeal of the product including packaging.
With the selection of classic fragrances and the choice of new products arriving on the market, every man may enjoy a unique fragrance perfectly suited for their lifestyle and personal taste.
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Check out this link for more information on top 10 colognes.
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Saturday, February 16, 2013
How to Win the Lottery - Powerball Strategies
You can win Powerball, guaranteed. If you know how the game is played, you can be guaranteed a winning ticket every time you play.
About the game Powerball is the most popular lottery in North America. It is a combined jackpot game with a beginning jackpot of million. As the game is played, if nobody wins the jackpot, it increases until someone wins the jackpot. Each Wednesday and Saturday night, 5 white balls are drawn from a drum with 59 balls in it, and 1 red Powerball is drawn from a drum with 39 balls to make the winning combination.
Drum Review
According to the Powerball website, overall odds of winning a prize are 1 in 35 since there are several ways to win in the Powerball game.
How to Win the Lottery - Powerball Strategies
Strategies You can use certain strategies to score a win in Powerball. Remember the guarantee above? For just , you can have at least 1 winning ticket in Powerball. Play 39 panels, choosing a unique Powerball number on each panel. Of course, the winning prize will be at least .00. That's not much, but consider that you will probably match at least 1 white ball as well and the winnings increase. Okay, you may think that is silly, but the point is, if you match the red Powerball, you will win something. So, when you choose your own numbers, as you should, you may want to consider not duplicating the Powerball number on your tickets.
Don't play dates. The highest number you can play would be 31 since no month has more days than that and you have 59 white balls to choose from. If you do play a date, play just one per panel and put in other numbers to balance the ticket.
Balance your ticket. Most winning combinations are balanced between high and low numbers and odd and even numbers.
Be consistent. Instead of picking new numbers every game, try using the same numbers for several games in a row.
Play the game. You can't win if you don't play.
Treat it as an investment. Play to win.
Don't spend money you need for things like groceries, mortgage and bills on the lottery, investments, going to the movies, bowling, seeing a football game, etc.
How to Win the Lottery - Powerball Strategies
Maggie Hines has learned to treat the lottery like a business by investing in the lottery. She has had amazing results using lottery systems to consistently win lotteries.
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For more winning strategies for lotteries and casino gambling, read more at her blog.
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Wednesday, February 6, 2013
10 Great Ringtones Make All Time List
Getting ringtones for your cell phone has become one of the hottest ways to set yourself apart on today's scene. If you want to stand out in a crowd, the ringtone you choose can be a big step in the right direction.
So you want a great ringtone, but have no idea what makes one great? Follow the advice below and learn where the bar has been raised by the top 10 list below, dubbed the first class of the ringtone Hall of Fame.
Drum Review
Separating great ringtones from the rest of the bunch requires a series of judging criteria. First and foremost, a great ringtone must come from a great song. While it is possible for great songs to yield disappointing ringtones, the opposite is impossible. The ringtone must also be easily recognizable to many people. Everyone wants that ringtone that makes people smile and say, "I love that song" when your phone rings.
10 Great Ringtones Make All Time List
From a musical standpoint, the ringtone must be created from one of three song portions: the intro, the hook, or the solo. The success of these three parts to the musical equation are make or break for hit songs, making them essential to the success of a ringtone. Because of the technology format, songs that make great ringtones also need to have simple layers. Songs with dueling drums or guitars cause a ringtone to sound cluttered, making it difficult to identify by ear. The intros to songs like "Stairway to Heaven" and "A Thousand Miles" make great ringtones because they are catchy and easy on the ear.
In addition to coming from a particular section of a song, great ringtones must also feature a strong, repetitious percussion line. Whether that persistent pulse comes from the bass line of "Drop It Like It's Hot" or from the synthesizers in "Take On Me," the ability for many people to recognize a specific song comes from that repetition.
While the final keystones are being cemented into the ringtone shrine, here are the first ten inductees into the Ringtone Hall of Fame:
1. "In Da Club" - 50 Cent
Besides being Billboard's inaugural "Ringtone of the Year" in 2004, 50's first #1 hit has a bass line built for making heads bob. The strings section adds suspense to the song and puts high notes on top of the gutter base line. Having "In Da Club" as a ringtone means the party is never farther away than your phone.
2. "Stairway to Heaven" - Led Zeppelin
The calming woodwind that accompanies Page's slow guitar picking makes for rock - and ringtone - heaven on earth. Several portions of this song have been made into ringtones, but the tone depicting the song's introduction is truly a classic.
3. "Sweet Home Alabama" - Lynyrd Skynyrd
Music fans of all ages get a smile on their face at the first sound of this southern-rock classic. Change a party's atmosphere from get together to jamboree by a simple "ring-ring." The MP3 version is a required tone for country and classic rock fans.
4. "Super Mario Brothers" Game Theme
The essential ringtone for gamers. The polyphonic tone is an exact replication of the track from 16-bit Nintendo.
5. "Halloween" Movie Theme
Perfect custom tone for friends named Michael Myers. One of the most popular ringtones of all time that can outsell pop hits year round.
6. "The Next Episode" - Dr. Dre
While many hip-hop ringtones sound poor due to the overuse of dull bass lines, "The Next Episode" features thumping bass and a pulsating G-funk guitar lick, creating the bench mark for multi layered ringtones.
7. "Mission Impossible" Theme Song
Another incredibly popular ringtone despite its age that will only get more popular as the third installment of the movie franchise begins filming. Perfect as a custom tone for those over-demanding bosses in the workplace.
8. "Sandstorm" - DaRude
Like "Super Mario Brothers," a distinct song replica is created by the polyphonic ringtone. A must for fans of techno music and another, sure fire, party-starter tone.
9. "Fresh Prince of Bel-Air" Theme Song
The only hip-hop song your father can rap over is one of the most recognizable ringtones available. The beat is so contagious that setting it as your default ringer in a public place will cause a room to begin rhyming along as if they were Will Smith.
10. "The Jetsons" Theme Song
While the Jetsons had a lot of great things in their future world, one thing they don't have is their own song as a phone ringer. We don't have flying automobiles yet, but show off the evolution of cell phone technology with the upbeat polyphonic ditty.
10 Great Ringtones Make All Time List
Jonathan Bentz is an Associate Editor of the Cool Ringtones Blog and has downloaded 39 ringtones in the last month on his new Samsung camera phone. Check out MonsterTones for all the hottest ringtones. Enter promo code MJKB0 for a buy one, get one free special.
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Sunday, February 3, 2013
Top 10 Wedding Cake Cutting Songs & Ideas
Your wedding reception is almost over, and the fun and lightheartedness of the day has finally kicked in - it's time for the cake! One of the least stressful moments of your wedding has begun and to celebrate it, cut your cake with a light, fun song! Traditionally, many brides have used "The Bride Cuts the Cake" (to the tune of The Farmer in the Dell), but many modern brides are selecting more contemporary cake cutting songs.
Whether you choose something traditional such as "Happy Together" by the Turtles or something a bit edgier with a rock sound such as "Pour Some Sugar on Me" by Def Leppard, the song you select for your cake cutting ceremony should be reflective of both of your personalities. This is the one moment of your wedding where you do not have to be very traditional, you can be as funky and different as you want to be. When you are cutting the cake you certainly want people to remember the moment for as long as you will and playing the right music will definitely help to make that happen.
Since most songs are several minutes in length, the cake cutting ceremony may be shorter than the song itself. You will want to consult with your band or DJ and let them know exactly how to play the song. Most songs can be cut in length or have only a chorus or two played.
Top 10 Wedding Cake Cutting Songs & Ideas
If you are stuck for ideas for songs for your cake cutting ceremony, here is a Top 10 List of Cake Cutting music compiled by DJ Robert Fayder, Owner of Party Perfect NYC.
Wanna Grow Old With You - Adam SandlerWhen I'm 64 - The BeatlesIce Cream - Sarah McGlocklainSugar Sugar - The ArchiesLove and Marriage - Frank SinatraBuild Me Up Buttercup - The FoundationsGoing To The Chapel - The ShirellsHow Sweet It Is - James TaylorHow Deep Is Your Love - Bee GeesYou Make Me So Very Happy - Blood Sweat and Tears
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Monday, January 28, 2013
The Top Ten Family Dog Breeds
When picking out a dog for your family, there are more important things to consider than just looks. Ease of training, compatibility with children, dominance traits, and aggression should be your top priorities. I've compiled this list based on the following:
- Which breeds do well left alone at home
- Overall intelligence
The Top Ten Family Dog Breeds
- Amount of exercise needed
- Attitudes with children, strangers, and other animals
- Health problems
- My personal experience
- Typical breed standards
- The American Temperament Test results
Small Breeds
Havanese
This breed is the classic lap-dog. They come from the line of Bichon Frise and Maltese but are more compatible with children. They are generally well behaved, loyal, quiet, and submissive. They're easy to train, hypo-allergenic, and do not shed. They can weigh between 8-13 pounds and live about 14 years. They're perfect for apartment life and are content with indoor exercise. They aren't very athletic, so they need an easy-going family. They are a long-haired breed, so a 'puppy cut' is easiest to maintain (as seen in the photo). If you're looking for an adorable, compact, perpetual puppy, the Havanese is for you.
Boston Terrier
Boston Terriers are small bundles of joy. They live to learn, love people of all ages, are effortless to groom, and require little exercise. They are perfect for indoor life. They weigh from 10-20 pounds and live up to 15 years. They do well with other pets and love to be where the action is. Their coats are glossy and short so they are very easy to groom, but they do shed. Bostons have very short muzzles so they may breath loudly, snore, or drool. Because of birthing difficulties (often by caesarean), I recommend finding your Boston Terrier at a local rescue rather than a breeder. There are several Bostons available for adoption on petfinder.com.
Cockapoo
The Cockapoo is one of my favorite breeds because even though they're small, they're quite athletic. The Cocker Spaniel traits give a robust and hardy quality and a love of sports - frisbee, fetch, swimming, and hunting (to name a few). The Poodle traits lend a dignified and intelligent demeanor unlike other small breeds. Cockapoos are not nervous or skittish, but they do best when around people all day. They're attentive to their masters, very easy to train, and adore children and other pets. They are also hypo-allergenic and do not shed. They can weigh between 6 to 25 pounds, depending on whether or not the poodle parent was a toy or miniature. Life expectancy is about 14 years. They come in many colors and their coats can be shaggy or curly. Some breeders will dock their tails but ask yours not to - they have the most lovely, plume-like tails!
Medium Breeds
Miniature Australian Shepherd
Aussies are extremely intelligent and devoted to their masters. They do best with a medium to large yard and an active family. Because they are herding dogs, they need plenty of exercise or else they become bored, hyper-active, and destructive. About two hours of rigorous exercise a day is ideal. They can weigh from 20 to 40 pounds and live about 13 years. They are a beautiful breed, coming in a variety of colors, and at times may have bright blue eyes. Their coats are thick and they shed year-round, so daily brushing is recommended. Their coats are insulators so they do not need to be shaved - although you may give them a short 'puppy cut' during hot months. They are usually a quiet breed but may bark at strangers. Unless properly socialized as puppies, most Aussies are wary of strangers and visitors.
Keeshond
Keeshonden are energetic and lively dogs who are devoted family companions. Though not as smart as other breeds, they can be well-trained with consistent, firm discipline, and plenty of positive reinforcement. If you like the looks of Huskies and Akitas, the Keeshond is a better choice for children. They weigh 30 to 60 pounds and live about 13 years. They do well indoors but need about an hour of exercise a day. A small yard is sufficient with this breed. They love to 'smile' at people and when excited, they spin in comical circles. Because of their thick coat, they are average shedders and do best in cooler climates. If in a warm climate, they can be given a 'puppy cut' during hot months. Daily brushing is ideal. They are great watchdogs so they tend to bark often, which might upset close neighbors.
American Pit Bull Terrier
The Pit Bull is the most controversial breed of our day and you may be wondering why this breed would show up on my list. But in the hands of a responsible owner, I believe they can be one of the best family breeds available. They are loving, amusing, intelligent, and faithful to the end. As pups, they can be aggressive toward other dogs or small animals, but this can be easily and quickly trained out of them. Pit Bulls are so well-mannered that they are often chosen to be service, rescue, or police dogs. Although their short coat is easy to maintain, they do shed. They can be a bit clumsy indoors, but regular exercise (about an hour a day) and a proper weight can reduce this. Pit Bulls are prone to be overweight, so do not over feed. They can range between 30 and 60 pounds and live about 12 years. It's important to train a Pit Bull to walk properly on a leash at a young age or they may become too difficult to walk when older and stronger.
Large Breeds
Collie (Rough or Smooth Coat)
The Collie is another fabulous family companion. Like the Australian Shepherd above, they are a herding breed, so they are exceptionally intelligent. Eager to please, snuggle, and protect, they are loyal and dignified pets. They weigh 50 to 75 pounds and live about 15 years. They make great watchdogs and are natural 'babysitters' for the children in the family. Rough Coated Collies do not need haircuts - they do fine in warm months, as their coat acts like an insulator from the heat. Although they can overheat if exercised too much during hot months. The Smooth Coated Collies have a shorter coat, so they do well in any climate. Both are average shedders. Collies need about two hours of exercise a day and a large yard. Country life is best for this breed, as they love exploring the world.
Golden Retriever
Happy, fun-loving, and loyal, Goldens are one of the most popular breeds in the United States. They love people, so although they may bark when a stranger approaches your home, they would sooner invite a thief in rather than scare him off. They weigh 50 to 80 pounds and live approximately 11 years. They are average shedders and benefit from daily brushing. Because they are retrievers, they need at least two hours of rigorous exercise a day, either swimming, playing fetch, or running beside you as you jog. Some do not do well left alone and become destructive. Although they are vastly intelligent, they are being bred to have more dominant traits which can make training difficult. With firm and consistent discipline, Goldens can be refined pets, but inconsistent training will lead to an out-of-control dog that will take about 4 to 5 years to settle down.
Labrador Retriever
The Labrador is the most popular breed in the United States. Their friendly, energetic, and loyal dispositions make them excellent family pets. They are wonderful with children and enjoy the water, hunting, fetch, Frisbee - just about anything you love, they'll love! Although their coat is short, they are average shedders. They can weigh 50 to 100 pounds and live about 11 years. Like Goldens, they do well indoors but need two hours of exercise a day or they may become destructive. Without proper exercise, Labs can become overweight, which can lead to joint problems. Because of over-breeding, American Labs are typically hyper-active and rarely submissive. These Labs will be rambunctious and difficult to train for the first four to five years. Since Labs are the most popular breed, they are also one of the most popular breeds found in shelters - so check your local rescue before visiting a breeder.
Please understand that even though I am including Golden Retrievers and Labradors on this list, I tend to discourage families from purchasing them because they are being over-bred due to high demand and popularity. This over-breeding creates unhealthy and extremely hyper dogs, which then results in either: 1) euthanasia due to expensive vet bills, and 2) abandoned dogs at shelters because of hyper (and destructive) activity. There is no question that both breeds can be excellent family companions, but I encourage every family to consider other, equally wonderful breeds before Goldens and Labs. If you must have one, check your local shelter, rescue, or petfinder.com. Please be aware that even the sheltered or rescued Goldens and Labs will most likely be over-bred, so training and tolerance is a must. Together, we can decrease the popularity of this breed and put an end to over-breeding.
Giant Breeds
American Mastiff
For those partial to giant breeds, I recommend an American Mastiff. Calm, dignified, and gentle, these dogs are patient and loving with children. They can weigh 140 to 200 pounds and live up to 12 years. As with most giant breeds, Mastiffs do not need a lot of exercise and do well indoors or with a small yard. But because of their inactivity, they may become overweight. Mastiffs get along well with other dogs but should be supervised around other types of animals. They can be very protective but rarely aggressive unless threatened. As puppies they can be rambunctious and clumsy because they grow rapidly during the first year, but they mature quickly. And even though they are one of the gentlest breeds, their size can be intimidating - so always keep your Mastiff leashed in public.
Remember, there can be exceptions with each litter so make sure you research breeders and always insist on meeting the parents to determine the general temperament of the litter. With adoption, research breed characteristics thoroughly before bringing a dog home. Even mixed breeds can be properly researched - just check out the traits of each breed in their bloodline. For instance, if you're looking at a Labrador/Mastiff mix, a good rule of thumb is to combine the traits from both breeds, so you know what to expect.
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Mandy has been a dog trainer and family pet advisor for ten years. She is passionate about matching the right pets with the right families and has fostered countless animals in her lifetime. Currently she is a staff writer for Plugged In Parents, providing parents with family pet solutions and information. Plugged In Parents is also an online resource for up-to-date health and safety, nutrition, and baby info along with recipes, family movie reviews, money and tech tips, and more! Visit pluggedinparents.com today!
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