Dog Groups
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Dog breeds are categorized into different groups based on their original purposes, traits, and characteristics. The primary dog breed groups recognized by major kennel clubs, such as the American Kennel Club (AKC), are as follows:
• Purpose: Developed for hunting birds and retrieving game.
• Traits: Active, alert, and friendly; require regular exercise.
• Examples: Golden Retriever, Labrador Retriever, Cocker Spaniel, Pointer.
2. Hound Group
• Purpose: Bred for tracking and hunting using their keen sense of smell or sight.
• Traits: Independent, determined, and often vocal.
• Examples: Beagle, Bloodhound, Greyhound, Dachshund.
3. Working Group
• Purpose: Developed for tasks such as guarding, pulling sleds, and water rescues.
• Traits: Strong, intelligent, and loyal; often need structured training.
• Examples: Siberian Husky, Boxer, Doberman Pinscher, Great Dane.
4. Terrier Group
• Purpose: Originally bred to hunt and kill vermin or dig out burrowing animals.
• Traits: Energetic, feisty, and tenacious.
• Examples: Bull Terrier, Scottish Terrier, Border Terrier, Airedale Terrier.
5. Toy Group
• Purpose: Bred primarily as companion dogs.
• Traits: Small in size, affectionate, and often adaptable to apartment living.
• Examples: Chihuahua, Pomeranian, Maltese, Yorkshire Terrier.
6. Non-Sporting Group
• Purpose: Diverse group with various purposes not fitting into other categories.
• Traits: Varied in size, coat, and personality.
• Examples: Bulldog, Dalmatian, Poodle, Shiba Inu.
7. Herding Group
• Purpose: Bred to herd and manage livestock.
• Traits: Intelligent, energetic, and responsive to training.
• Examples: German Shepherd, Border Collie, Australian Shepherd, Corgi.
8. Miscellaneous Group
• Purpose: Includes breeds working toward full recognition by kennel clubs.
• Traits: Diverse traits; often rare or newly developed breeds.
• Examples: Portuguese Podengo, Biewer Terrier.
9. Foundation Stock Service (FSS) Program (AKC Specific)
• Purpose: Breeds not yet eligible for AKC registration but tracked for development.
• Traits: Highly varied in characteristics.
• Examples: Barbet, Belgian Laekenois.