While there are approximately more than 400 types of dogs currently, not all are pure breeds. Some are mixes of 2 or more breeds, making them mix-breeds. Depending on the work that a dog was bred for, the Kennel Club categorises purebred dogs into seven groups, according to a breed’s origins and initial use. Knowing these can help you to understand your dog’s instinctual behaviour although, of course, each animal is definitely an individual.
~ Toy breeds might be short on size, but they are definitely not short on personality! such as pug, Yorkshire terrier and bichon frise, which make particularly good pets for smaller domestic realms, weighing in at a neat 8lb to 11lb. Breeds in the Toy group are affectionate, sociable and adaptable to a wide range of lifestyles.
~ Gun dogs are bright, happy and responsive dogs that can usually be easily-trained and make fantastic family pets. Gun dogs are divided into three primary types: retrievers, flushing dogs and pointing breeds. The most common examples of gun dog are golden retriever, labrador retriever and cocker spaniel.
~ Dogs in this group have been bred for their work with grazing animals.Usually this type of dog has a weatherproof double coat to protect it from the elements when working in severe conditions. Breeds such as the Collie family, Old English Sheepdogs and Samoyeds who have been herding reindeer for centuries are but a few included in this group.
Utility Group is the name of a breed group of dogs, used by kennel clubs to classify a defined collection of dog breeds.This group has some of the oldest documented breeds in the world, such as Dalmatian, French bulldog and poodle, and they have mainly non-sporting or working origins.
~ Working dog breeds have many unique characteristics.These are not merely pets, but animals that can also assist as farm, service, guard and war dogs, dogs of the Working Group are intelligent, strong, watchful, and alert. Bred to assist man.Typically intelligent breeds, such as great Dane, rottweiler and boxer, they have to be put to work or exercised regularly to thrive.
~ A hound is a type of dog used by hunters to track or chase prey.Known for their powerful sense of smell and great speed. Some examples are beagle, dachshund, whippet and greyhound.
~ Looking for a terrier dog in your life? these type of dogs are small, active and fearless, terriers were historically bred in Great Britain and Ireland to control rats, rabbits and foxes. Today the most commonly owned breeds are the Jack Russell and West Highland white.
