Puppy breeds are divided into seven main groups, not including mongrel, they are- Toy, Terriers, Gundogs, Hounds, Pastoral, Utility and Working dogs
Toy
Generally placid and friendly. This usually small or sleek group of dogs has their working tendencies largely bred out of them.
Cooperative, mild-tempered and eager to please make them ideal for first time owners. The downside, however, is that selective breeding has made them susceptible to many health issues.
Still, there's no reason to pass up on this wonderful group. If you are new or simply looking for a dog that's easy to handle, yet brimming with personality and energy, look no further!
Some popular breeds from Toy Group: Chihuahua, Pomeranian, Poodle, Shih Tzu, Pug, Yorkshire Terrier, Maltese
Terriers
All breeds in this group, which originated in the British Isles were mostly bred for pest-control and sport.
Without proper introduction and socialization, this group is known for puppy breeds that display signs of predatory and aggression towards other pets in the household, both canine or not.
Outgoing and friendly, they make wonderful house pet and are great with children.
With the least variation of breeds among the seven dog groups and generally small in sizes, they nevertheless make excellence watchdogs.
Some popular breeds from Terriers Group: Border Terrier, Miniature Schnauzer, Russell Terrier, Scottish Terrier
Gundogs
Active, intelligent and reliable, the gundogs are some of the world's most popular pet dogs.
Bred to assist human with hunting and retrievers of games. The usually obedient and friendly gundogs are good for active family and do extremely well with children.
Although gundogs are easy to train and biddable, it's good to note that a few breeds tend to be on the noisy side.
Some popular breeds from Gundogs Group: American Cocker Spaniel, Golden Retriever, Labrador Retriever, Irish Setter
Hounds
One of the oldest group of dogs, the Hounds are build for their keen senses and speed for hunting.
Active, intelligent and mostly good-nature, this group is also known to display streaks of autonomy/disobedience due to the need for independence intended for their original role.
The instinct to chase and catch small animals is so strong that certain breeds from this group are not ideal for family with small pets.
Still, their nature to fit in packs, whether with a pack of dogs or human family, makes them excellent house pet.
Some popular breeds from Hounds Group: Greyhound, Beagle, Bloodhound, Basset Hound, English Foxhound, Dachshund
Pastoral
A relatively new group, Pastoral includes puppy breeds that used to be categorized under the Working group.
Bred to work closely with humans, these dogs are a popular choice for general herding and protection of livestock.
Energetic, hardworking and affectionate, Pastoral dog breeds tend to form close bond with owners. Their eager to please nature makes training them much easier.
With a selection that comes with a wide variety of sizes, colors and coat types, Pastoral dog lovers are certainly spoil for choices!
Some popular breeds from Pastoral Group: Border Collie, German Shepherd, Collie, Australian Shepard Dog
Utility
The Utility dogs of recent times are being bred for companionship rather than fulfilling specific roles.
This particular group is unique in the sense that they possessed some of the most diverse breeds ranging from unusual and distinctive to family favorites.
This diversity also boils down to their character. Therefore, it is better to understand individual breed characteristic rather than trying to know them as a group.
Like the Gundogs, Utility includes some of the most popular companion breeds.
Some popular breeds from Utility Group: Newfoundland, Mastiff, Portuguese Water Dog, Rottweiler, Shiba Inu
Working
The courageous and robust Working group is bred to aid humans in many ways, including dangerous rescues and protection missions.
Loyal, trainable and sturdy in build, the Working group is formidable both inside and out.
Firm handling and good socialization cannot be over-stated when it comes to this group, as such this isn't the group to go for if you are new to puppy care.
Working dogs make great family pets in the hands of an experience owner. Certain breeds, however, do not mix well with small children and other pets, even fellow canine.
Some popular breeds from Working Group: Chow Chow, Boxer, Doberman Pinscher, Great Dane, Bullmastiff, Siberian Husky, Newfoundlands, Bernese Mountain Dog, Mini Chow Chow
The first step..
Each dog is unique regardless whether they are from the same breed or litter. Understanding group/breed characteristic is the first step in your search for that dog of your dreams.
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