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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 neuter pembroke welsh

When Should I Spay or Neuter My Pembroke Welsh Corgi?

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

20th August 2021

spay neuter beagle

When Should I Spay or Neuter My Beagle?

When should I spay or neuter my Beagle? 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.

20th August 2021

spay neuter shiba inu

When Should I Spay or Neuter My Shiba Inu?

Making a decision on spaying or neutering your Shiba Inu – have a good read of the things you need to consider

20th August 2021

spay neuter great pyrenees

When Should I Spay or Neuter My Great Pyrenees?

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

20th August 2021

spay neuter great dane

When Should I Spay or Neuter My Great Dane?

There are many reasons why you should have your Great Dane 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

20th August 2021

spay neuter chihuahua

When Should I Spay or Neuter My Chihuahua?

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

20th August 2021

spay neuter doberman

When Should I Spay or Neuter My Doberman Pinscher?

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

20th August 2021

spay neuter bernese mountain dog

When Should I Spay or Neuter My Bernese Mountain Dog?

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

20th August 2021

spay neuter French bulldog

When Should I Spay or Neuter My French Bulldog?

When should I spay or neuter my French Bulldog? 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.

19th August 2021

spay neuter german shorthaired pointer

When Should I Spay or Neuter My German Shorthaired Pointer?

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

19th August 2021

spay neuter australian cattle dog

When Should I Spay or Neuter My Australian Cattle Dog?

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

19th August 2021

spay neuter american pitbull terrier

When Should I Spay or Neuter My American Pit Bull Terrier?

When should I spay or neuter my American Pitbull 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.

19th August 2021

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