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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 - Kerry Blue Terrier

When Should I Spay or Neuter My Kerry Blue Terrier?

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

26th August 2021

Spay and neuter - Bearded Collie

When Should I Spay or Neuter My Bearded Collie?

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

26th August 2021

Spay and neuter - Norwich Terrier

When Should I Spay or Neuter My Norwich Terrier?

When should I spay or neuter my Norwich 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 - American Foxhound

When Should I Spay or Neuter My American Foxhound?

There are many reasons why you should have your American Foxhound 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 - Belgian Tervuren

When Should I Spay or Neuter My Belgian Tervuren?

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

26th August 2021

Spay and neuter - Black And Tan Coonhound

When Should I Spay or Neuter My Black And Tan Coonhound?

Not sure on when or whether to spay or neuter your Black And Tan Coonhound? Here’s a range of things you’ll need to consider.

26th August 2021

Spay and neuter - Borzoi

When Should I Spay or Neuter My Borzoi?

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

26th August 2021

Spay and neuter - Japanese Chin

When Should I Spay or Neuter My Japanese Chin?

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

26th August 2021

Spay and neuter - Red and White Setter

When Should I Spay or Neuter My Red and White Setter?

There are many reasons why you should have your Red and White Setter 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.

24th August 2021

Spay and neuter - Peruvian Inca Orchid

When Should I Spay or Neuter My Peruvian Inca Orchid?

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

24th August 2021

Spay and neuter - Olde Boston Buldogge

When Should I Spay or Neuter My Olde Boston Bulldogge?

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

24th August 2021

Spay and neuter - North American Shepherd

When Should I Spay or Neuter My North American Shepherd?

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

24th August 2021

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