The American Kennel Club (AKC) recognizes seven different breed groups: Sporting, Hound, Working, Terrier, Toy, Non-Sporting, and Herding. Each group consists of breeds that share common characteristics and were bred for similar purposes.
The Sporting Group includes breeds that were bred for hunting game birds. These dogs are typically athletic, active, and have great stamina. They are excellent swimmers and retrievers, making them great companions for hunters. Some of the most popular breeds in this group are the Golden Retriever, Labrador Retriever, and Cocker Spaniel.
The Hound Group includes breeds that were bred for hunting by sight or scent. These dogs have an incredible sense of smell and tenacity, making them excellent hunters. They range in size from the tiny Beagle to the giant Irish Wolfhound. Other popular breeds in this group include the Greyhound, Bloodhound, and Basset Hound.
The Working Group includes breeds that were bred for jobs like guarding property, pulling sleds, and performing water rescues. These dogs are typically large, strong, and intelligent. They make great companions for those who need a dog for protection or for working purposes. Popular breeds in this group include the Boxer, Siberian Husky, and Great Dane.
The Terrier Group includes breeds that were bred to hunt and kill vermin and other small prey. These dogs are typically small and tenacious, with a strong prey drive. Some of the most popular breeds in this group include the Jack Russell Terrier, Scottish Terrier, and West Highland White Terrier.
The Toy Group includes small dogs that were bred to be companions and lap dogs. They are typically under 20 pounds and make great apartment dogs. Popular breeds in this group include the Chihuahua, Pomeranian, and Toy Poodle.
The Non-Sporting Group is a diverse group of dogs with varying purposes and backgrounds. These breeds don’t fit into any other category and can range from small to large. Some popular breeds in this group include the Bulldog, Dalmatian, and Poodle.
Finally, the Herding Group includes breeds that were bred for herding livestock. These dogs are highly trainable and intelligent, and make great companions for those who have a lot of space and time to dedicate to training. Popular breeds in this group include the Border Collie, German Shepherd, and Australian Cattle Dog.
In conclusion, each breed group recognized by the AKC has its own unique characteristics and history. Understanding these groups can help potential dog owners choose the right breed for their lifestyle and needs. Whether you’re looking for a hunting companion, a lap dog, or a working dog, there’s a breed out there that’s perfect for you.
| Dog Breed Group | Description | Example Breeds |
|---|---|---|
| Sporting | Athletic, active dogs with great stamina, bred for hunting game birds | Golden Retriever, Labrador Retriever, Cocker Spaniel |
| Hound | Bred for hunting by sight or scent, these dogs have an incredible sense of smell and tenacity | Greyhound, Bloodhound, Beagle |
| Working | Bred for jobs like guarding property, pulling sleds, and performing water rescues | Boxer, Siberian Husky, Great Dane |
| Terrier | Bred to hunt and kill vermin and other small prey | Jack Russell Terrier, Scottish Terrier, West Highland White Terrier |
| Toy | Small dogs bred to be companions and lap dogs | Chihuahua, Pomeranian, Toy Poodle |
| Non-Sporting | Diverse group of dogs with varying purposes and backgrounds, not fitting into other categories | Bulldog, Dalmatian, Poodle |
| Herding | Bred for herding livestock, they are highly trainable and intelligent | Border Collie, German Shepherd, Australian Cattle Dog |