Types of Dog Breeds

Choosing a dog breed



The types of dog breeds have been divided into 7 groups of dog groups recognized by the American, Canadian and British Kennel Clubs.





















When you adopt a pet dog it is important that you consider the characteristics of that dog. Centuries of breeding to behave in a certain way gives breeds distinct characteristics. Choosing the right dog breed starts by understanding the characteristics of that dog.

Sporting Dog Breeds (UK Gundog Group) - Group 1

As the name implies, sporting dogs are very active dogs. They are loveable companions that require frequent exercise. They are breed for running, swimming and other hunting activities. So if you are already active this might be a good group of dogs to consider. This is among the most loyal of all types of dog breeds More about Sporting / Hunting dog breeds

Hound Dog Breeds - Group 2

Hounds are well known for aiding in the chase of game. They have been breed this way for centuries. They generally have been breed with speed and stamina in mind. Along with the ability to see and smell prey. Larger breeds of hounds have been used to hunt elk, boars and wolves! Hounds are known for baying, a unique sound that they would use upon cornering their prey. Before you adopt a pet hound you are advised to make sure that you can handle this sound – you are bound to hear it. More about Hound Dogs

Working Dog Breeds - Group 3

Working dogs are intelligent and strong. They are great companions but do require proper training and an active lifestyle. They were bred to be guard dogs, sled dogs and rescue dogs so they are loyal. Many families might find a working dog to be too much work though – they are strong, large and need to work! A dog that needs to work will create its own work if does not get enough work. And that is not a good thing!
More about Working Dogs

Terrier Dog Breeds - Group 4

Terriers are quick, clever and feisty dogs. They were breed primarily to be vermin hunters. Because of this they were left to fend for themselves. To this day they do not have great tolerance for other animals. So if you want two dogs this may not be the best group to consider, unless you are prepared to put enough time into socializing the dogs. And when you are out with your Terrier you may have to keep their temperament in mind. But they can be wonderful pets.

Terriers range in size and colour quite a bit and most have wiry coats that need special grooming attention. More about Terrier Dog Breeds

Toy Dog Breeds - Group 5

Toy dogs have their name because of their miniature size and use as lap dogs. Toy dogs are great if you don’t have a big place. They are also great if your primary objective is to have a lap dog or companion. With a toy dog you will not have nearly the same amount of shedding, food to buy and messes to clean as you would with most other breeds.

With an average weight of about 10 pounds a toy is also much easier to handle and take with you. Plus you can dress it up when you take it out! These are possibly the cutest types of dog breeds and I can't wait to have one of my own! Learn more about Toys

Non-Sporting Dog Breeds - Group 6

If it were not for the miscellaneous section in the AKC and CKC I would say that non-sporting dogs are the catch all for everything left over. Non Sporting Dog Breeds are very diverse and it is wise to consider each type of dog in this group individually

Herding Dog Breeds (UK Pastoral Group) - Group 7

The Herding Group was originally part of the working group. What sets this group apart from the worker si their ability to herd other animals. They are fast, energetic, obedient and love to work. Their instinct to herd is so strong that they will work to round up children playing in the yard. They need training (like all dogs) and learn quickly. They can be excellent companions for energetic owners. But they are probably the most active types of dog breeds. Learn more about herding dog breeds (you will leave types of dog breeds)

Miscellaneous

This is a very diverse group that don't fit into the other types of dog breeds listed above. leave Types of Dog Breeds and return to Adopt a Pet You Will Love home for more pet information



It is important that you take your time to find the right type of dog for you. I do hope that you found the links on this page to be useful!

If you want to see more pictures of these dog breeds - I recently found a great site with lots of dog breed pictures and other information. It is www.dog-breed-picture.com , it is a site I really like.


Another site of interest is www.the-best-dog-for-you.com. It gives some great tips and information about dogs for families and kids.