How many dog breeds are there? A guide to groups recognized in the US
If you're looking to get a dog, there is no shortage of options. From miniature poodles to gigantic Dobermans, man's best friend comes in all shapes and sizes.
There are hundreds of dog breeds − each with their own personality and temperament. But exactly how many are there?
Different kennel clubs across the globe are responsible for registering breeds. Here's a rundown.
How many dog breeds are there?
In the United States, the American Kennel Club (AKC) currently registers 201 dog breeds. This number, however, does not include mixed-breed dogs or designer crossbreeds, such as the Goldendoodle (a golden retriever-poodle mix) or Cockapoo (a cocker spaniel-poodle mix).
AKC only registers "purebred dogs." If a breed is not recognized, it may be because there isn't enough of that breed in the U.S. or because owners of the breed aren't interested in registry.
The first breed to be recognized by the American Kennel Club was the Pointer in 1878. The most recent addition to the registry is the Lancashire Heeler, recognized on Jan. 3, 2024.
According to the American Kennel Club, around 400 breeds are recognized worldwide under international registry organizations.
What is the most expensive dog?This breed is the costliest.
Dog breed groups, explained
The American Kennel Club categorizes dog breeds into seven groups:
- Sporting group
- Hound group
- Working group
- Terrier group
- Toy group
- Non-sporting group
- Herding group
The sporting group consists of breeds that originally worked with hunters to find and retrieve feathered game. Sporting dog breeds are energetic and active. Notable members of this group include the English Cocker Spaniel, Golden Retriever and Labrador Retriever.
The hound group was originally bred for hunting, so dogs in this group have keen senses of stamina or smell. The Beagle, Bloodhound and Greyhound are members of the hound group.
The working group's name is fitting since these dogs were bred to help humans with tasks, like guarding property or pulling sleds. Working breeds are strong and smart. Breeds from this group include the Siberian Husky, Boxer and Bernese Mountain Dog.
Those in the terrier group were originally bred to catch rodents and other vermin underground. They also were meant to be guard dogs for family homes or barns. Terrier breeds are often characterized as feisty and full of energy. Notable terrier breeds are the West Highland White Terrier, Scottish Terrier and Bull Terrier.
Breeds in the toy group are known for their small size. Despite their miniature stature, these dogs are full of personality. Toy breeds are social and affectionate. Examples of this group include the Yorkshire Terrier, Shih Tzu and Maltese.
The non-sporting dog group covers a range of breeds. They come in different sizes and have various coat textures and personalities. The Shiba Inu, Standard Poodle and Boston Terrier are members of this group.
The herding group is categorized by the breeds' ability to round up and protect livestock. All breeds in the herding group were previously a part of the working group until 1983. Examples of this group include the Australian Cattle Dog, Border Collie and Pembroke Welsh Corgi.
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