List of dog breeds

List of dog breeds

Dog breeding has a long history dating back thousands of years. The dog breeds we know today are a result of inbreeding of dogs in the same ancestral line or of mixing dogs from very different lines. Dog breeds greatly vary in their physical appearance and are the only animal with such great difference in physical characteristics. However, besides differences in their physical appearance dog breeds are also known for their distinctive behavior although latter also greatly varies within particular breed and greatly depends on training process and methods.

Dog breeds are commonly listed by function from which certain breed was developed commonly distinguishing between the following types: companion dogs, hunting dogs, herding dogs, working dogs and guard dogs. The Fédération Cynologique International (FCI), an international federation of kennel clubs classified all recognized dog breeds into 10 breed groups: sheepdogs, pinscher and schnauzer, terriers, cattle dogs, dachshunds, spitz and primitive types, scenthounds, pointing dogs, retrievers - flushing dogs - water dogs, companion and toy dogs, and sighthounds.

The basic dog breed groups are often further divided into different types and subtypes, while some rare new and newly documented traditional breeds are still waiting to be listed to a particular breed group. When searching for list of dog breeds it is wise to keep in mind the standard classification of dog breeds.

Mixed dog breeds

Some dog breeds are inbreeded from the same ancestral lines, while the others are bred by mixing dogs from different lines. So-called mixed dog breeds also known as “no breed” dogs are the most common and popular dog breed. Mixed dog breeds are often planned by breeders but they might be also a result of mating between two un-sterilized dogs.

Mixed dog breeds are not inferior to purebred dogs nor less physically appealing. You do not like physical appearance of all purebred dogs, do you? Predicting mixed dog breed behavior and character is not any less reliable than of purebred dogs of course under conditions that parentage is known. One of the greatest advantages of mixed dog breeds in compare to purebred dogs is lesser genetic susceptibility to ailments. Mixed dog breeds are also less expensive than purebred although that does not mean they require less care or attention.

If deciding for a mixed dog breed it is very important to be very careful from who you purchase. Mixed dog breeds are often produced by inbreeding of dogs without pedigree and behavior and personality of such dogs are impossible to predict. You might get a wonderful and very intelligent companion dog but you might also get a dog very difficult to control.

Large dog breeds

If you are looking for a companion or watch dog you should probably consider large dog breeds. Large dog breeds generally require a lot of space and exercise but there are major differences between particular breeds in all segments including in behavior. Make sure you inform yourself very well about particular dog breeds to be able to determine which one has the most of desired characteristics.

Hovawart is a German medium size dog breed, while adult dog weights about 25 to 45 kilograms (55-90 pounds). They are very loyal and devoted to their owners and are also appropriate for families with small children.

St. Bernard is one of the largest dog breeds originating from Switzerland. Adult dogs can weight up to 117 kilograms (258 pounds) but despite their large size they are very friendly and gentle. However, they need to be properly trained and socialized while still a puppy.

Dalmatian is notable for its white coat with black or liver spots. Its name seems to refer to Croatian region Dalmatia but the breed’s origin remains unknown. Adult Dalmatian weights about 30 to 35 kilograms (66-77 ponds) and are very active. The breed has genetic predispositions towards deafness, bladder stones and gout.

German Shepherd Dog is one of the most popular large dog breeds, while its name revels the country of its origin - Germany. They are very intelligent but obedient, loyal and protective. German Shepherds are very active and are also appropriate for families with small children. The breed has genetic predispositions for some ailments such as hip and elbow dysplasia which might cause arthritis, ear infections, degenerative myelopathy and bleeding disorder.