Types Of

For centuries, many different types of dogs have served many functions for man. Whether it was to herd sheep, retrieve game or simply provide companionship, dogs have performed these tasks with fierce loyalty.

According to the American Kennel Club, there are a total of 157 types of dogs, and those do not include mongrels or mutts. There are several more types that are still waiting to be recognized by the AKC. These 157 types of dogs are divided and grouped together based on their similarities in function. There are 7 groups: Sporting dogs, Non-sporting dogs, working breed dogs, hound breed type dogs, terrier breed type dogs, herding breed type dogs and toy dogs.

Sporting dogs were bred to help man hunt for game birds. They are active and are said to be the most intelligent of the breeds. They are used for a variety of purposes and are easily trained. As pets, they need attention and a substantial amount of exercise. Popular examples of sporting dogs are the Golden Retriever, Labrador retriever and the Irish setter. Non-sporting dogs is group of dogs that do not fit any of the other groups. Over the years, these dogs have not been required to perform the duties that they are bred to do due to a change in times. These dogs range from medium to large sizes and are known to be family dogs. Examples of this type of dog are Boston terrier, Bulldog, Chow Chow, Dalmatian and Poodle.

Working dogs were bred to perform a wide variety of tasks that greatly helped man with their livelihood. Working dogs are used for herding, droving, pulling, hauling, hunting, rescuing and guarding. These dogs are what we’ve come to know as police dogs, guard dogs and sled dogs. Dogs of this type are intelligent, strong and loyal medium to giant sized dogs. However, they are hard to manage so training may be required. Boxers, Doberman Pinscher, Great Dane, Saint Bernard and Siberian Husky are all considered working dogs. Hound dogs were originally developed to chase a quarry by scent, sight or both. Aside from hunting quarries, they also performed guard duties, herding and tracking duties. Due to the activities that they do, these types of dogs have great stamina, so having them as pets would require you to give them exercise. Popular examples of hound dogs are the Basset Hound, Beagle, Bloodhound, Daschund and the Greyhound.

Terrier dogs are the types of dogs that are used to hunt and kill pests like mice and foxes in the past. They are small to medium sized and characterized as being feisty despite their small size. Terrier dogs are energetic and independent making the, difficult to train but they are friendly and loyal dogs. Bull terrier, Jack Russel terrier, Miniature shnauzer and Scottish terrier are popular examples of this type. Herding dogs are large to medium dogs that perform the task of herding livestock. Today they are used as police dogs, tracking dogs, handicap dogs and search and rescue dogs. They are easily trained and great companions. Alsatians, Collies, German Shepherds and Old English sheepdog belong to this group. Toy dogs were developed to provide amusement for the rich and were status symbols in the past. Their purpose was only to provide warmth, companionship and status. Chihuahua, English toy spaniel, Miniature pinscher, Pomeranian and Yorkshire terrier are toy dogs.

There are many different types of dogs to choose from when searching for a pet. It all depends on what personality of the dog you’d like to take care of.