Understanding Breeds | Overview of Dog Breed Groups

The world of dog breeds is vast, and extremely interesting. When you understand the different dog breeds and how they came to be, you can better understand the type of dog you'd like to bring into your home.

Additionally, the history of dog breeds sheds light on how important and incredible dogs are. Dogs have helped human beings advance in many essential ways, and it's very possible that human civilization would be less advanced if we had never domesticated dogs.

Keep reading to get a deeper understanding of the different classes of dog breeds, where they're from, ways to support their health, and how they came to be.

From Wolves to Family Members: Breed Origins
- Breed Diversification & Advances to Humankind
The 7 Primary Modern Dog Breed Groups
Conclusion

<p>The world of dog breeds is vast, and extremely interesting. When you understand the different dog breeds and how they came to be, you can better understand the type of dog you'd like to bring into your home.</p>
<p>Additionally, the history of dog breeds sheds light on how important and incredible dogs are. Dogs have helped human beings advance in many essential ways, and it's very possible that human civilization would be less advanced if we had never domesticated dogs.</p>
<p>Keep reading to get a deeper understanding of the different classes of dog breeds, where they're from, <a href="https://lolahemp.com/collections/dog-cbd" title="This page lists all of lolahemp's CBD products for dogs.">ways to support their health</a>, and how they came to be.</p>
<h2>From Wolves to Family Members: Breed Origins</h2>
<p>Before there were specific dog breeds, there were wolves. The leading theory is that 15,000-30,000 years ago, wolves domesticated themselves by following human groups and scavenging. This process played out multiple times, in different continents, which is part of the reason there are so many breeds today.</p>
<p>The friendlier, tamer scavenging wolves were welcomed by humans and rewarded with more food, security, and comfortable by their chosen humans. In return, wolves offered human groups security by alerting us to threats, hunting for food, and cleaning up food waste that could draw predators.</p>
<p>Generation after generation, wolves were bred by humans to be less wild and more domesticated. Traits like aggression toward humans were left behind, and positive qualities like hunting ability and intelligence were honed.</p>
<p><img src="https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0030/7435/9366/files/dog_domestication_timeline.png?v=1746218014" alt=""></p>
<h3>Breed Diversification & Advances to Humankind</h3>
<p>Once wolves engrained themselves into our lives, they became evolutionary partners for us. Their contributions to human societies, in some measure, allowed us to make advancements that define the evolution of our species. These contributions dictated the way breeds would diversify and result in the tapestry of wonderful dogs that exist today.</p>
<p><strong>Here are a few key contributions that dogs made to humanity:</strong><br></p>
<ul>
<li>
<strong>Awareness of Predators</strong>: Dogs' ability to keep watch and spot predators allowed human groups to sleep safely, and even form larger groups that could remain stationary rather than wandering.</li>
<li>
<strong>Hunting & Tracking: </strong>The ability to track and hunt animals allowed humans to be more efficient while hunting, increasing food supplies and reducing the resources needed bring food back to the camp.<br>
</li>
<li>
<strong>Template for Domestication: </strong>The domestication of dogs served as a guide for how to domesticate other animals, allowing humans to farm and raise livestock, reducing the need to migrate. This is a massive factor in the birth of human cities and, ultimately, civilizations.</li>
<li>
<strong>Herding & Protection of Livestock and Grain:</strong> Herding livestock would be impossible without significant manpower without the help of dogs. One dog can herd a flock of sheep or cattle more effectively than many human beings. Additionally, hunting vermin that could ruin crops or crop stores allowed humans to stockpile food and live well with a lower risk of disease.</li>
</ul>
<p>These specialties would set the stage for all dog breeds to diversify and be extremely effective companions to this day. Let's look into each of the categories of modern dog breeds.</p>
<h2>The 7 Primary Modern Dog Breed Groups</h2>
<p>The American Kennel Club distinguishes seven primary modern groups of dog breeds. These groups are set by the breed's function, energy, instinct, and behavior.</p>
<p>Each of these breed groups contain myriad breeds within them, but widely grouping individual breeds into categories helps us understand them. If you'd like to learn more about any of these breed groups, you can read our guides on each of them.</p>
<section id="working-group">
<h3>1. Working Breed Group</h3>
<p><a title="This article discusses dogs in the working breed group." href="https://lolahemp.com/blogs/dog-breed-guide/working-group-dog-breeds">Dogs in the working group</a> are generally larger, and bred to perform specific tasks in cooperation with their human owners. Working group dogs are often strong, intelligent, and extremely obedient (when properly trained).</p>
<p>The roles that working group dogs perform are, in many cases, crucial to the livelihood and survival of their owners, so they're a critical and wonderful group of dogs.</p>
<p>Some of the key roles that working group dogs perform include cattle droving, alpine rescue, supply transport, pulling carts, guarding, police work, large animal hunting, water rescue, and more.</p>
<div style="text-align: center;"><img src="https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0030/7435/9366/files/working_dog_group.png?v=1746218045" alt="three working dogs" style="float: none;"></div>
<h4>Qualities of Working Group Dogs</h4>
<p><strong>Key Traits:</strong> size, endurance, protective instincts, intelligent, trainable demeanors, loyalty, confidence</p>
<p><strong>Key Health Issues:</strong> dysplasia, bloat, joint issues, heart issues, shorter life spans</p>
<p><strong>Key Needs:</strong> mental stimulation, physical exercise, present owners, cool environments</p>
<h4>Dogs Within the Working Group</h4>
<ul>
<li>Alaskan Malamute</li>
<li>Bernese Mountain Dog</li>
<li>Boxer</li>
<li>Bullmastiff</li>
<li>Cane Corso</li>
<li>Doberman Pinscher</li>
<li>Giant Schnauzer</li>
<li>Great Dane</li>
<li>Great Pyrenees</li>
<li>Komondor</li>
<li>Kuvasz</li>
<li>Leonberger</li>
<li>Mastiff</li>
<li>Neapolitan Mastiff</li>
<li>Newfoundland</li>
<li>Portuguese Water Dog</li>
<li>Rottweiler</li>
<li>Saint Bernard</li>
<li>Siberian Husky</li>
<li>Tibetan Mastiff</li>
</ul>
</section>
<section id="herding-group">
<h3>2. Herding Breed Group</h3>
<p>The herding group includes <a href="https://lolahemp.com/blogs/dog-breed-guide/herding-group-dog-breeds" title="this article discusses dogs in the herding breed group.">dogs originally bred to help control livestock</a> like sheep and cattle. These dogs are agile, responsive, and often excel in obedience and agility training.</p>
<p>Herding dogs are known for their intelligence and need to stay mentally and physically engaged. They thrive when given tasks, training, or even just an active lifestyle.</p>
<p>They are loyal companions that can be excellent for families with active lifestyles and the time to meet their stimulation needs.</p>
<div style="text-align: center;"><img src="https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0030/7435/9366/files/herding_dog_group.png?v=1746218082" alt="three herding dogs" style="float: none;"></div>
<h4>Qualities of Herding Group Dogs</h4>
<p><strong>Key Traits:</strong> intelligent, alert, agile, responsive, eager to work</p>
<p><strong>Key Health Issues:</strong> hip dysplasia, eye issues (PRA, cataracts), sensitivity to certain medications (MDR1 gene)</p>
<p><strong>Key Needs:</strong> mental tasks, daily exercise, structure, consistent training</p>
<h4>Dogs Within the Herding Group</h4>
<ul>
<li>Australian Cattle Dog</li>
<li>Australian Shepherd</li>
<li>Bearded Collie</li>
<li>Beauceron</li>
<li>Belgian Laekenois</li>
<li>Belgian Malinois</li>
<li>Belgian Sheepdog</li>
<li>Belgian Tervuren</li>
<li>Bergamasco Sheepdog</li>
<li>Border Collie</li>
<li>Bouvier des Flandres</li>
<li>Briard</li>
<li>Canaan Dog</li>
<li>Cardigan Welsh Corgi</li>
<li>Collie</li>
<li>German Shepherd Dog</li>
<li>Icelandic Sheepdog</li>
<li>Miniature American Shepherd</li>
<li>Old English Sheepdog</li>
<li>Pembroke Welsh Corgi</li>
<li>Puli</li>
<li>Pyrenean Shepherd</li>
<li>Shetland Sheepdog</li>
<li>Spanish Water Dog</li>
</ul>
</section>
<section id="hound-group">
<h3>3. Hound Breed Group</h3>
<p>Hounds were bred to <a href="https://lolahemp.com/blogs/dog-breed-guide/hound-group-dog-breeds" title="this article discusses dogs in the hound breed group in great detail.">track or chase prey</a>. Some rely on scent, while others use sight to pursue game. They were essential partners to hunters and often worked independently.</p>
<p>Hound breeds range from quiet and laid-back to extremely driven and vocal. Many are natural athletes and require room to roam or run.</p>
<p>They can be independent thinkers, so patience and consistency are key to successful training.</p>
<div style="text-align: center;"><img src="https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0030/7435/9366/files/hound_dog_group.png?v=1746218118" alt="three hound dogs" style="float: none;"></div>
<h4>Qualities of Hound Group Dogs</h4>
<p><strong>Key Traits:</strong> driven, independent, alert, vocal, athletic</p>
<p><strong>Key Health Issues:</strong> ear infections (long ears), hip dysplasia, bloat, thyroid issues</p>
<p><strong>Key Needs:</strong> secure yard, scent games or chasing play, moderate to high exercise</p>
<section id="sporting-group">
<h4>Dogs Within the Hound Group</h4>
<ul>
<li>Afghan Hound</li>
<li>American English Coonhound</li>
<li>American Foxhound</li>
<li>Basenji</li>
<li>Basset Hound</li>
<li>Beagle</li>
<li>Black and Tan Coonhound</li>
<li>Bloodhound</li>
<li>Bluetick Coonhound</li>
<li>Borzoi</li>
<li>Dachshund</li>
<li>English Foxhound</li>
<li>Greyhound</li>
<li>Harrier</li>
<li>Ibizan Hound</li>
<li>Irish Wolfhound</li>
<li>Norwegian Elkhound</li>
<li>Otterhound</li>
<li>Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen</li>
<li>Pharaoh Hound</li>
<li>Plott</li>
<li>Redbone Coonhound</li>
<li>Rhodesian Ridgeback</li>
<li>Saluki</li>
<li>Scottish Deerhound</li>
<li>Sloughi</li>
<li>Treeing Walker Coonhound</li>
<li>Whippet</li>
</ul>
</section>
</section>
<section id="sporting-group">
<h3>4. Sporting Breed Group</h3>
<p>Sporting dogs were <a href="https://lolahemp.com/blogs/dog-breed-guide/sporting-group-dog-breeds" title="this article discusses dogs in the sporting group in great detail.">bred to assist hunters</a> in retrieving game from land and water. These breeds are friendly, eager to please, and tend to be very trainable.</p>
<p>They thrive in active homes and love being part of family routines. Many are natural swimmers and have a high tolerance for physical activity.</p>
<p>They are excellent dogs for outdoorsy owners who can keep them engaged and exercised.</p>
<div style="text-align: center;"><img src="https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0030/7435/9366/files/sporting_dog_group.png?v=1746218157" alt="three sporting dogs" style="float: none;"></div>
<h4>Qualities of Sporting Group Dogs</h4>
<p><strong>Key Traits:</strong> energetic, affectionate, trainable, athletic, sociable</p>
<p><strong>Key Health Issues:</strong> hip/elbow dysplasia, ear infections, obesity, arthritis in seniors</p>
<p><strong>Key Needs:</strong> consistent exercise, companionship, access to outdoor activity</p>
<h4>Dogs Within the Sporting Group</h4>
<ul>
<li>American Water Spaniel</li>
<li>Brittany</li>
<li>Chesapeake Bay Retriever</li>
<li>Clumber Spaniel</li>
<li>Cocker Spaniel</li>
<li>Curly-Coated Retriever</li>
<li>English Cocker Spaniel</li>
<li>English Setter</li>
<li>English Springer Spaniel</li>
<li>Field Spaniel</li>
<li>Flat-Coated Retriever</li>
<li>German Shorthaired Pointer</li>
<li>German Wirehaired Pointer</li>
<li>Golden Retriever</li>
<li>Gordon Setter</li>
<li>Irish Red and White Setter</li>
<li>Irish Setter</li>
<li>Labrador Retriever</li>
<li>Lagotto Romagnolo</li>
<li>Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever</li>
<li>Pointer</li>
<li>Spinone Italiano</li>
<li>Vizsla</li>
<li>Weimaraner</li>
<li>Welsh Springer Spaniel</li>
<li>Wirehaired Pointing Griffon</li>
</ul>
</section>
<section id="non-sporting-group">
<h3>5. Non-Sporting Breed Group</h3>
<p>The non-sporting group is a <a href="https://lolahemp.com/blogs/dog-breed-guide/non-sporting-group-dog-breeds" title="this article discusses dogs in the non-sporting group of breeds.">diverse collection of breeds</a> that don’t neatly fit into other categories. They were bred for a variety of purposes—from watchdogs to circus performers to companions.</p>
<p>This group varies widely in size, coat type, and personality. Some are playful and social; others are more reserved or stubborn.</p>
<p>Because of this variety, it's important to research individual breeds before assuming suitability for a specific lifestyle.</p>
<div style="text-align: center;"><img src="https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0030/7435/9366/files/non_sporting_dog_group.png?v=1746218185" alt="three non-sporting dogs" style="float: none;"></div>
<h4>Qualities of Non-Sporting Group Dogs</h4>
<p><strong>Key Traits:</strong> diverse personalities, adaptable, bold, sometimes quirky or stubborn</p>
<p><strong>Key Health Issues:</strong> breed-specific issues (e.g., breathing problems in Bulldogs, eye issues in Dalmatians)</p>
<p><strong>Key Needs:</strong> tailored care based on breed, socialization, routine companionship</p>
<h4>Dogs Within the Non-Sporting Group</h4>
<ul>
<li>American Eskimo Dog</li>
<li>Bichon Frise</li>
<li>Boston Terrier</li>
<li>Bulldog</li>
<li>Chinese Shar-Pei</li>
<li>Chow Chow</li>
<li>Coton de Tulear</li>
<li>Dalmation</li>
<li>Finnish Spitz</li>
<li>French Bulldog</li>
<li>Keeshond</li>
<li>Lhasa Apso</li>
<li>Lowchen</li>
<li>Poodle (Standard and Miniature)</li>
<li>Schipperke</li>
<li>Shiba Inu</li>
<li>Tibetan Spaniel</li>
<li>Tibetan Terrier</li>
<li>Xoloitzcuintli</li>
</ul>
</section>
<section id="toy-group">
<h3>6. Toy Breed Group</h3>
<p>Toy breeds were bred <a href="https://lolahemp.com/blogs/dog-breed-guide/toy-group-dog-breeds" title="This article discusses dogs in the toy breed group.">primarily for companionship</a>, often living in the laps of royalty. These small dogs are alert, affectionate, and often more confident than their size suggests.</p>
<p>They make excellent pets for those in smaller living spaces, though many still have high energy and training needs.</p>
<p>Despite their size, they benefit from the same structure, enrichment, and vet care as larger breeds.</p>
<div style="text-align: center;"><img src="https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0030/7435/9366/files/toy_dog_group.png?v=1746218215" alt="three toy dogs" style="float: none;"></div>
<h4>Qualities of Toy Group Dogs</h4>
<p><strong>Key Traits:</strong> small, charming, lively, affectionate, alert</p>
<p><strong>Key Health Issues:</strong> dental problems, luxating patella, hypoglycemia, respiratory sensitivity</p>
<p><strong>Key Needs:</strong> gentle handling, mental stimulation, protection from cold or injury</p>
<h4>Dogs Within the Toy Group</h4>
<ul>
<li>Affenspinscher</li>
<li>Brussels Griffon</li>
<li>Cavalier King Charles Spaniel</li>
<li>Chihuahua</li>
<li>Chinese Crested</li>
<li>English Toy Spaniel</li>
<li>Havanese</li>
<li>Italian Greyhound</li>
<li>Japanese Chin</li>
<li>Manchester Terrier (Toy)</li>
<li>Miniature Pinscher</li>
<li>Papillon</li>
<li>Pekingese</li>
<li>Pomeranian</li>
<li>Poodle (Toy)</li>
<li>Pug</li>
<li>Shih Tzu</li>
<li>Silky Terrier</li>
<li>Toy Fox Terrier</li>
<li>Yorkshire Terrier</li>
</ul>
</section>
<section id="terrier-group">
<h3>7. Terrier Breed Group</h3>
<p>Terriers were developed to <a href="https://lolahemp.com/blogs/dog-breed-guide/terrier-group-dog-breeds" title="this article discusses terriers in the terrier breed group.">hunt and eliminate vermin</a>, often by digging or chasing. These breeds are bold, determined, and incredibly spirited.</p>
<p>They are known for their feistiness and courage, and often challenge dogs much larger than themselves.</p>
<p>Terriers do best with confident owners who provide training, structure, and outlets for their high energy and instincts.</p>
<div style="text-align: center;"><img src="https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0030/7435/9366/files/terrier_dog_group.png?v=1746218272" alt="three terrier dogs" style="float: none;"></div>
<h4>Qualities of Terrier Group Dogs</h4>
<p><strong>Key Traits:</strong> bold, energetic, tenacious, vocal, clever</p>
<p><strong>Key Health Issues:</strong> skin allergies, joint problems, behavioral reactivity if untrained</p>
<p><strong>Key Needs:</strong> structured training, stimulation, firm leadership, secure fencing</p>
<h4>Dogs Within the Terrier Group</h4>
<ul>
<li>Airedale Terrier</li>
<li>American Hairless Terrier</li>
<li>American Staffordshire Terrier</li>
<li>Australian Terrier</li>
<li>Bedlington Terrier</li>
<li>Border Terrier</li>
<li>Bull Terrier</li>
<li>Cairn Terrier</li>
<li>Cesky Terrier</li>
<li>Dandie Dinmont Terrier</li>
<li>Fox Terrier (Smooth and Wire)</li>
<li>Irish Terrier</li>
<li>Kerry Blue Terrier</li>
<li>Lakeland Terrier</li>
<li>Manchester Terrier</li>
<li>Miniature Bull Terrier</li>
<li>Miniature Schnauzer</li>
<li>Norfolk Terrier</li>
<li>Norwich Terrier</li>
<li>Parson Russell Terrier</li>
<li>Rat Terrier</li>
<li>Russell Terrier</li>
<li>Scottish Terrier</li>
<li>Sealyham Terrier</li>
<li>Skye Terrier</li>
<li>Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier</li>
<li>Staffordshire Bull Terrier</li>
<li>Welsh Terrier</li>
<li>West Highland White Terrier</li>
<li>Wire Fox Terrier</li>
</ul>
<h2>Conclusion</h2>
<p>Dogs come from all walks of life, and have been bred to serve all types of purposes. We hope you have a better idea of where your dog comes from after reading this, and if you'd like to learn more about specific breed groups or breeds, click the links in this article to get more detailed information on each of the dog groups discussed!</p>
</section>

From Wolves to Family Members: Breed Origins

Before there were specific dog breeds, there were wolves. The leading theory is that 15,000-30,000 years ago, wolves domesticated themselves by following human groups and scavenging. This process played out multiple times, in different continents, which is part of the reason there are so many breeds today.

The friendlier, tamer scavenging wolves were welcomed by humans and rewarded with more food, security, and comfortable by their chosen humans. In return, wolves offered human groups security by alerting us to threats, hunting for food, and cleaning up food waste that could draw predators.

Generation after generation, wolves were bred by humans to be less wild and more domesticated. Traits like aggression toward humans were left behind, and positive qualities like hunting ability and intelligence were honed.

Breed Diversification & Advances to Humankind

Once wolves engrained themselves into our lives, they became evolutionary partners for us. Their contributions to human societies, in some measure, allowed us to make advancements that define the evolution of our species. These contributions dictated the way breeds would diversify and result in the tapestry of wonderful dogs that exist today.

Here are a few key contributions that dogs made to humanity:

Awareness of Predators: Dogs' ability to keep watch and spot predators allowed human groups to sleep safely, and even form larger groups that could remain stationary rather than wandering.
Hunting & Tracking: The ability to track and hunt animals allowed humans to be more efficient while hunting, increasing food supplies and reducing the resources needed bring food back to the camp.
Template for Domestication: The domestication of dogs served as a guide for how to domesticate other animals, allowing humans to farm and raise livestock, reducing the need to migrate. This is a massive factor in the birth of human cities and, ultimately, civilizations.
Herding & Protection of Livestock and Grain: Herding livestock would be impossible without significant manpower without the help of dogs. One dog can herd a flock of sheep or cattle more effectively than many human beings. Additionally, hunting vermin that could ruin crops or crop stores allowed humans to stockpile food and live well with a lower risk of disease.

These specialties would set the stage for all dog breeds to diversify and be extremely effective companions to this day. Let's look into each of the categories of modern dog breeds.

The 7 Primary Modern Dog Breed Groups

The American Kennel Club distinguishes seven primary modern groups of dog breeds. These groups are set by the breed's function, energy, instinct, and behavior.

Each of these breed groups contain myriad breeds within them, but widely grouping individual breeds into categories helps us understand them. If you'd like to learn more about any of these breed groups, you can read our guides on each of them.

1. Working Breed Group

Dogs in the working group are generally larger, and bred to perform specific tasks in cooperation with their human owners. Working group dogs are often strong, intelligent, and extremely obedient (when properly trained).

The roles that working group dogs perform are, in many cases, crucial to the livelihood and survival of their owners, so they're a critical and wonderful group of dogs.

Some of the key roles that working group dogs perform include cattle droving, alpine rescue, supply transport, pulling carts, guarding, police work, large animal hunting, water rescue, and more.

Qualities of Working Group Dogs

Key Traits: size, endurance, protective instincts, intelligent, trainable demeanors, loyalty, confidence

Key Health Issues: dysplasia, bloat, joint issues, heart issues, shorter life spans

Key Needs: mental stimulation, physical exercise, present owners, cool environments

Dogs Within the Working Group

Alaskan Malamute
Bernese Mountain Dog
Boxer
Bullmastiff
Cane Corso
Doberman Pinscher
Giant Schnauzer
Great Dane
Great Pyrenees
Komondor
Kuvasz
Leonberger
Mastiff
Neapolitan Mastiff
Newfoundland
Portuguese Water Dog
Rottweiler
Saint Bernard
Siberian Husky
Tibetan Mastiff

2. Herding Breed Group

The herding group includes dogs originally bred to help control livestock like sheep and cattle. These dogs are agile, responsive, and often excel in obedience and agility training.

Herding dogs are known for their intelligence and need to stay mentally and physically engaged. They thrive when given tasks, training, or even just an active lifestyle.

They are loyal companions that can be excellent for families with active lifestyles and the time to meet their stimulation needs.

Qualities of Herding Group Dogs

Key Traits: intelligent, alert, agile, responsive, eager to work

Key Health Issues: hip dysplasia, eye issues (PRA, cataracts), sensitivity to certain medications (MDR1 gene)

Key Needs: mental tasks, daily exercise, structure, consistent training

Dogs Within the Herding Group

Australian Cattle Dog
Australian Shepherd
Bearded Collie
Beauceron
Belgian Laekenois
Belgian Malinois
Belgian Sheepdog
Belgian Tervuren
Bergamasco Sheepdog
Border Collie
Bouvier des Flandres
Briard
Canaan Dog
Cardigan Welsh Corgi
Collie
German Shepherd Dog
Icelandic Sheepdog
Miniature American Shepherd
Old English Sheepdog
Pembroke Welsh Corgi
Puli
Pyrenean Shepherd
Shetland Sheepdog
Spanish Water Dog

3. Hound Breed Group

Hounds were bred to track or chase prey. Some rely on scent, while others use sight to pursue game. They were essential partners to hunters and often worked independently.

Hound breeds range from quiet and laid-back to extremely driven and vocal. Many are natural athletes and require room to roam or run.

They can be independent thinkers, so patience and consistency are key to successful training.

Qualities of Hound Group Dogs

Key Traits: driven, independent, alert, vocal, athletic

Key Health Issues: ear infections (long ears), hip dysplasia, bloat, thyroid issues

Key Needs: secure yard, scent games or chasing play, moderate to high exercise

Dogs Within the Hound Group

Afghan Hound
American English Coonhound
American Foxhound
Basenji
Basset Hound
Beagle
Black and Tan Coonhound
Bloodhound
Bluetick Coonhound
Borzoi
Dachshund
English Foxhound
Greyhound
Harrier
Ibizan Hound
Irish Wolfhound
Norwegian Elkhound
Otterhound
Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen
Pharaoh Hound
Plott
Redbone Coonhound
Rhodesian Ridgeback
Saluki
Scottish Deerhound
Sloughi
Treeing Walker Coonhound
Whippet

4. Sporting Breed Group

Sporting dogs were bred to assist hunters in retrieving game from land and water. These breeds are friendly, eager to please, and tend to be very trainable.

They thrive in active homes and love being part of family routines. Many are natural swimmers and have a high tolerance for physical activity.

They are excellent dogs for outdoorsy owners who can keep them engaged and exercised.

Qualities of Sporting Group Dogs

Key Traits: energetic, affectionate, trainable, athletic, sociable

Key Health Issues: hip/elbow dysplasia, ear infections, obesity, arthritis in seniors

Key Needs: consistent exercise, companionship, access to outdoor activity

Dogs Within the Sporting Group

American Water Spaniel
Brittany
Chesapeake Bay Retriever
Clumber Spaniel
Cocker Spaniel
Curly-Coated Retriever
English Cocker Spaniel
English Setter
English Springer Spaniel
Field Spaniel
Flat-Coated Retriever
German Shorthaired Pointer
German Wirehaired Pointer
Golden Retriever
Gordon Setter
Irish Red and White Setter
Irish Setter
Labrador Retriever
Lagotto Romagnolo
Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever
Pointer
Spinone Italiano
Vizsla
Weimaraner
Welsh Springer Spaniel
Wirehaired Pointing Griffon

5. Non-Sporting Breed Group

The non-sporting group is a diverse collection of breeds that don’t neatly fit into other categories. They were bred for a variety of purposes—from watchdogs to circus performers to companions.

This group varies widely in size, coat type, and personality. Some are playful and social; others are more reserved or stubborn.

Because of this variety, it's important to research individual breeds before assuming suitability for a specific lifestyle.

Qualities of Non-Sporting Group Dogs

Key Traits: diverse personalities, adaptable, bold, sometimes quirky or stubborn

Key Health Issues: breed-specific issues (e.g., breathing problems in Bulldogs, eye issues in Dalmatians)

Key Needs: tailored care based on breed, socialization, routine companionship

Dogs Within the Non-Sporting Group

American Eskimo Dog
Bichon Frise
Boston Terrier
Bulldog
Chinese Shar-Pei
Chow Chow
Coton de Tulear
Dalmation
Finnish Spitz
French Bulldog
Keeshond
Lhasa Apso
Lowchen
Poodle (Standard and Miniature)
Schipperke
Shiba Inu
Tibetan Spaniel
Tibetan Terrier
Xoloitzcuintli

6. Toy Breed Group

Toy breeds were bred primarily for companionship, often living in the laps of royalty. These small dogs are alert, affectionate, and often more confident than their size suggests.

They make excellent pets for those in smaller living spaces, though many still have high energy and training needs.

Despite their size, they benefit from the same structure, enrichment, and vet care as larger breeds.

Qualities of Toy Group Dogs

Key Traits: small, charming, lively, affectionate, alert

Key Health Issues: dental problems, luxating patella, hypoglycemia, respiratory sensitivity

Key Needs: gentle handling, mental stimulation, protection from cold or injury

Dogs Within the Toy Group

Affenspinscher
Brussels Griffon
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
Chihuahua
Chinese Crested
English Toy Spaniel
Havanese
Italian Greyhound
Japanese Chin
Manchester Terrier (Toy)
Miniature Pinscher
Papillon
Pekingese
Pomeranian
Poodle (Toy)
Pug
Shih Tzu
Silky Terrier
Toy Fox Terrier
Yorkshire Terrier

7. Terrier Breed Group

Terriers were developed to hunt and eliminate vermin, often by digging or chasing. These breeds are bold, determined, and incredibly spirited.

They are known for their feistiness and courage, and often challenge dogs much larger than themselves.

Terriers do best with confident owners who provide training, structure, and outlets for their high energy and instincts.

Qualities of Terrier Group Dogs

Key Traits: bold, energetic, tenacious, vocal, clever

Key Health Issues: skin allergies, joint problems, behavioral reactivity if untrained

Key Needs: structured training, stimulation, firm leadership, secure fencing

Dogs Within the Terrier Group

Airedale Terrier
American Hairless Terrier
American Staffordshire Terrier
Australian Terrier
Bedlington Terrier
Border Terrier
Bull Terrier
Cairn Terrier
Cesky Terrier
Dandie Dinmont Terrier
Fox Terrier (Smooth and Wire)
Irish Terrier
Kerry Blue Terrier
Lakeland Terrier
Manchester Terrier
Miniature Bull Terrier
Miniature Schnauzer
Norfolk Terrier
Norwich Terrier
Parson Russell Terrier
Rat Terrier
Russell Terrier
Scottish Terrier
Sealyham Terrier
Skye Terrier
Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier
Staffordshire Bull Terrier
Welsh Terrier
West Highland White Terrier
Wire Fox Terrier

Conclusion

Dogs come from all walks of life, and have been bred to serve all types of purposes. We hope you have a better idea of where your dog comes from after reading this, and if you'd like to learn more about specific breed groups or breeds, click the links in this article to get more detailed information on each of the dog groups discussed!