Dog Breeds

A dog is any of the animals in the subspecies "Canis lupus familiaris", part of the species Canis lupus. First domesticated, by humans over 15,000 years ago The domestic dog is a domesticated descendant of a now-extinct breed of wolf.

What is a dog breed?

Dog breeds are types of dogs that have a set of inherited characteristics that they pass on to their offspring and so are able to be classified as a specific breed that shares traits, looks, and characteristics.

Most dogs were bred for particular behaviours, such as hunting or herding.

Dog breeds vary in size and shape from the tiniest teacup Chihuahua to the massive St Bernards and Great Danes
.

These are not considered breeds until their genetic traits are predictably passed down to their offspring and they are recognised by one or more of the major kennel clubs

What Is A Breed Standard?

A breed standard is the description of the ideal example of a breed, both physical and behavioral. The description will include physical or morphological detail, such as their gait and musculature, athletic or productive performance, genetic criteria, colours, etc.

The first breed standards date back to the 19th century when dogs were generally bred for a purpose such as herding or hunting. These early breeders would meet to discuss and describe what they thought were desirable features in their breeds and documented these.

Since they were bred for a purpose, the breeds were grouped together by that purpose, as detailed below.

Crossbreeds and Mixed Breeds

In recent years dog breeders have created crossbreeds, which is a cross between two different dog breeds, such as the Labradoodle.

Many of these dogs have become very popular but are not considered breeds as the traits are not consistent enough.

You can find out more about popular crossbreeds here >>

More Dog Breed Information

What Is The Daily Food Allowance For A Border Collie? A Guide To Feeding Your Small Dog

A complete guide to feeding your small dog! Learn the ideal daily food allowance for a Border Collie and how to keep your pup healthy and happy.

What To Do If Your Border Collie Is Shivering: Tips & Advice

Tired of your Border Collie shivering? Get expert tips and advice on how to stop the shivers!

Why is my Border Collie anxious?

Does your Border Collie seem to be more anxious than usual? Here are some reasons why and what you can do about it.

Why does my Border Collie lick so much?

If your dog is licking too much, you want to know why. Find out what this might mean and how you can help your dog with their excessive licking.

Why Do Border Collies Stare?

Border Collies are very smart, but some people don’t know why these dogs love to stare. Border Collies have an intense gaze that is like a laser beam. When the dog wants something, it will focus on one thing until it gets what it needs or wants.

Why do border collies sleep on their backs?

A blog post on everything you need to know sleep related for your Border Collie including why they tend to want to sleep on their backs.

Why do Border Collies have long tongues?

Border collies always seem to be licking something. What’s all the fuss about and why do they have such ridiculously long tongues? Read on!

When Should I Spay or Neuter My Border Collie?

Decision time on whether you should spay or neuter your border collie? Here’s some useful tips on what you need to consider.

What you need to know about Miniature Border Collies

Miniature Border Collies are a smaller version of the famous Border Collie breed. They are bred for working on farms and around livestock, but can also make great family pets. Mini Border Collies need plenty of exercise and can be high energy, so they may not be suitable for everyone. But if you’re looking for an energetic dog that is also intelligent and easy to train, a Miniature Border Collie is a fantastic dog and one that may be the right choice for you.

Breed Standard Groups