Dog breed groups
Breeds are grouped by their original purpose and type: herding livestock, guarding, hunting by scent or by sight, retrieving game or keeping people company. Each group below shows how many breeds it contains in our encyclopedia, with a few examples.
- Pinschers, molossers and mountain dogs37 breed(s) in this groupPowerful guardians, mountain dogs and pinschers: protective breeds that need consistent training.
- Sheepdogs and cattle dogs29 breed(s) in this groupDogs bred to move and guard livestock: alert, quick and deeply attached to their people.
- Terriers25 breed(s) in this groupBrave, lively dogs originally bred to hunt vermin.
- Companion and toy dogs23 breed(s) in this groupSmall dogs bred for companionship and well suited to city life.
- Spitz and primitive types23 breed(s) in this groupNordic dogs, spitz breeds and ancient types: independent and often very expressive.
- Pointing dogs18 breed(s) in this groupGundogs that freeze on point when they find game: active, cooperative and easy to motivate.
- Retrievers, flushing dogs and water dogs16 breed(s) in this groupRetrievers, spaniels and water dogs: gentle, playful companions that are often great with families.
- Scent hounds15 breed(s) in this groupPack dogs with an exceptional nose, great stamina and a sociable nature.
- Sighthounds11 breed(s) in this groupRunners that hunt by sight: calm at home and astonishingly fast outdoors.
- Dachshunds1 breed(s) in this groupShort-legged dogs with a remarkable nose and plenty of character.
