• Skip to main content
  • Skip to footer

Tailster Blog

Tailster

  • Dogs
  • Cats
  • Walkers & Sitters
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

Chihuahua recall training - how to let your Chihuahua off the lead

Chihuahua recall training – how to let your Chihuahua off the lead

Do you find training your Chihuahua to come when called challenging? Here’s an easy steps guide for teaching your Chihuahua how to respond when called.

5th May 2022

Are Chihuahuas intelligent dogs

Are Chihuahuas intelligent dogs?

So, are Chihuahuas intelligent dogs or not? In this blog post, we take a look at the evidence and try to determine if these little pups are as sharp as they come.

5th May 2022

Dealing with Chihuahuas and Chewing

Dealing with Chihuahuas and Chewing

Do you have a Chihuahua who loves to chew on everything? In this blog post, we’ll share tips on dealing with this pesky problem. Read here for more information!

5th May 2022

Chihuahua Lifespan - How Long Can Your Chihuahua Live

Chihuahua Lifespan – How Long Can Your Chihuahua Live?

Do you know how long the average Chihuahua lives? Find out what you can do to help your Chihuahua live a longer life, and some of the common health problems that can affect this breed.

5th May 2022

Bonding With Your Chihuahua

Bonding With Your Chihuahua

Do you want to form a strong bond with your Chihuahua? Here are some helpful tips, create a lifelong friendship by learning how to bond with your dog!

5th May 2022

The Chihuahua Temperament And Personality Guide

The Chihuahua: Temperament And Personality Guide

Do you have your heart set on a sassy little Chihuahua? If so, it is important that you understand their temperament and personality before bringing one into your home. Read on for tips about how to provide them with a loving home.

5th May 2022

Australian Shepherds and Glaucoma

Australian Shepherds and Glaucoma

Do you have an Australian Shepherd with glaucoma? Here’s everything you need to know about the disease, as well as treatment alternatives and how to help your dog live a happy life.

4th May 2022

Australian Shepherds and Separation Anxiety

Australian Shepherds and Separation Anxiety

If you have an Australian Shepherd, you may be aware that they are afflicted with separation anxiety. Learn more about this issue and how to help your best friend.

3rd May 2022

Disadvantages Of Having An Australian Shepherd

Disadvantages Of Having An Australian Shepherd

Are you considering adding an Australian Shepherd to your family? Here are some of the most common disadvantages of owning this breed.

24th April 2022

Are Chihuahuas a good dog breed around children and family

Are Chihuahuas a good dog breed around children and family?

Find out how chihuahuas are as pets for kids and families. Learn about the benefits of owning a chihuahua as well!

24th April 2022

Are Australian Shepherds A Good Breed Around Children And Family

Are Australian Shepherds A Good Breed Around Children And Family?

Find out what it’s like living with an Australian Shepherd, whether they’re good around children and family.

24th April 2022

Australian Shepherd Recall Training - How To Let Your Australian Shepherd Off Lead

Australian Shepherd Recall Training – How To Let Your Australian Shepherd Off Lead

Want to let your dog off the leash but you aren’t sure how? Read these tips for training a reliable recall and safely letting your Australian Shepherd off-leash.

24th April 2022

  • « Go to Previous Page
  • Go to page 1
  • Interim pages omitted …
  • Go to page 21
  • Go to page 22
  • Go to page 23
  • Go to page 24
  • Go to page 25
  • Interim pages omitted …
  • Go to page 92
  • Go to Next Page »

Footer

  • Book a carer
  • Become a carer
  • About
  • Contact

Affiliate Disclosure

We believe in being as transparent as possible when it comes to this site. With this in mind, please be aware that we may receive remuneration for some of the products we review on this site.

Tailster is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com (and other Amazon programs).

We will also list ads from time to time. You should be able to see these as text links or blocks of ads which have a small notation indicating “Ads by Google” or “AdChoices”.

Our mission is to help our visitors, but this is also very clearly a for-profit site and you should realize as much. We include only those products that we believe could benefit you, some of which we may get a commission if you purchase them. However, we also provide links on the site to information resources for which we receive no compensation.

If you have any questions whatsoever, please contact us using the "contact" option on the site menu and we will be happy to answer any questions.

Trademark Dislosure

Amazon and the Amazon logo are trademarks of Amazon.com, Inc, or its affiliates.

In addition, any other trademarks and logos we mention on this site are also the property of their respective owners.

Copyright © 2025 Tailster