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Tailster / Dogs / Breeds

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.

Breed Standard Groups

  • Foundation Stock Service
  • Gundog
  • Hound
  • Pastoral
  • Terrier
  • Toy
  • Utility
  • Working

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

Is Your West Highland Terrier Bored? Here Are The Signs To Look For

We’ve noted the signs you need to look out for that might suggest that your West Highland Terrier is potentially bored or lonely. Read them and see what options you may have.

24th December 2022

Is Your Vizsla Bored? Here Are The Signs To Look For

Sometimes it may look like your Vizsla is bored or doesn’t know what to do. We’ve put together some signs for you to look out for

23rd December 2022

Best Ways To Exercise Your Estrela Mountain Dog?

A guide of tips to keep your Estrela Mountain Dog fit and healthy – with a range of exercise ideas for your Estrela Mountain Dog.

21st December 2022

Microchip Boston Terrier

A guide to Microchips and your Boston Terrier

We outline the different questions that you’ll be asking in relation to microchipping your Boston Terrier. How much it costs, who is responsible for microchipping and your legal requirements in ensuring these details are kept up to date and much more.

20th December 2022

Microchip Wire Fox Terrier

Microchipping and your Wire Fox Terrier – A guide

We outline the different questions that you’ll be asking in relation to microchipping your Wire Fox Terrier. How much it costs, who is responsible for microchipping and your legal requirements in ensuring these details are kept up to date and much more.

20th December 2022

Microchip Lowchen

A guide to Microchips and your Lowchen

All the questions you may not even know to ask in relation to microchipping your Lowchen – learn about your microchipping responsibilities as a responsible pet owner.

19th December 2022

Spay and neuter - Welsh Springer Spaniel

When Should I Spay or Neuter My Welsh Springer Spaniel?

There are many reasons why you should have your Welsh Springer Spaniel spayed or neutered, not least of all because it will likely improve their quality of life (and stop you from worrying about a litter of puppies). Here’s what you need to know.

19th December 2022

Is Your Toy Manchester Terrier Bored? Here Are The Signs To Look For

Sometimes it may look like your Toy Manchester Terrier is bored or doesn’t know what to do. We’ve put together some signs for you to look out for

18th December 2022

Best Ways To Exercise Your Weimaraner?

Statistics show 1 in 5 Weimaraner owners don’t regularly walk their dogs which can result in health problems in the long term. See our guide to a range of ways to keep them healthy.

17th December 2022

Microchip Japanese Chin

Microchipping and your Japanese Chin – A guide

We outline the different questions that you’ll be asking in relation to microchipping your Japanese Chin. How much it costs, who is responsible for microchipping and your legal requirements in ensuring these details are kept up to date and much more.

16th December 2022

Best Ways To Exercise Your Irish Water Spaniel?

A guide of tips to keep your Irish Water Spaniel fit and healthy – with a range of exercise ideas for your Irish Water Spaniel.

14th December 2022

microchip australian kelpie

Microchipping and your Australian Kelpie – A guide

All the questions you may not even know to ask in relation to microchipping your Australian Kelpie – learn about your microchipping responsibilities as a responsible pet owner.

14th December 2022

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