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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

Spay and neuter - Shiloh Shepherd

When Should I Spay or Neuter My Shiloh Shepherd?

There are many reasons why you should have your Shiloh Shepherd 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.

26th August 2021

Spay and neuter - Akbash Dog

When Should I Spay or Neuter My Akbash Dog?

Not sure on when or whether to spay or neuter your Akbash Dog? Here’s a range of things you’ll need to consider.

26th August 2021

Spay and neuter - Finnish Spitz

When Should I Spay or Neuter My Finnish Spitz?

Wanting to know when is best to spay or neuter your Finnish Spitz? We’ve worked out the typical timeframes and let you know more about what you need to consider.

26th August 2021

Spay and neuter - Sealyham Terrier

When Should I Spay or Neuter My Sealyham Terrier?

When should I spay or neuter my Sealyham Terrier? It’s a question often asked by dog owners, we’ve compiled some questions you need to ask yourself before going ahead with your spaying or neutering decision.

26th August 2021

Spay and neuter - Schipperke

When Should I Spay or Neuter My Schipperke?

When should I spay or neuter my Schipperke? It’s a question often asked by dog owners, we’ve compiled some questions you need to ask yourself before going ahead with your spaying or neutering decision.

26th August 2021

Spay and neuter - Toy Manchester Terrier

When Should I Spay or Neuter My Toy Manchester Terrier?

There are many reasons why you should have your Toy Manchester Terrier 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.

26th August 2021

Spay and neuter - Plot Hound

When Should I Spay or Neuter My Plot Hound?

Making a decision on spaying or neutering your Plot Hound – have a good read of the things you need to consider.

26th August 2021

Spay and neuter - Alpha Blue Blood bulldog

When Should I Spay or Neuter My Alpha Blue Blood bulldog?

Not sure on when or whether to spay or neuter your Alpha Blue Blood bulldog? Here’s a range of things you’ll need to consider.

26th August 2021

Spay and neuter - Xoloitzcuintli

When Should I Spay or Neuter My Xoloitzcuintli?

To spay or not to spay. Here’s a quick guide on spaying or neutering your Xoloitzcuintli – with a guide to all things you might need to consider.

26th August 2021

Spay and neuter - Scottish Deerhound

When Should I Spay or Neuter My Scottish Deerhound?

Wanting to know when is best to spay or neuter your Scottish Deerhound? We’ve worked out the typical timeframes and let you know more about what you need to consider.

26th August 2021

Spay and neuter - Black Russian Terrier

When Should I Spay or Neuter My Black Russian Terrier?

When should I spay or neuter my Black Russian Terrier? It’s a question often asked by dog owners, we’ve compiled some questions you need to ask yourself before going ahead with your spaying or neutering decision.

26th August 2021

Spay and neuter - Silky Terrier

When Should I Spay or Neuter My Silky Terrier?

Making a decision on spaying or neutering your Silky Terrier – have a good read of the things you need to consider.

26th August 2021

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