There are seven main types of dog

To impose some kind of order on all of the different dog breeds available, dogs have been helpfully classified into just seven main groups or types, according to the general features that they have in common. Considering which of these general dog types is most suitable for you is often a good place to start in making your decision when choosing a dog. Once you have narrowed it down to a general dog type, you can then concentrate on choosing an individual breed from within that group.

• Working dogs
• Herding (or pastoral dogs)
• Terriers
• Gundogs (or sporting dogs)
• Hounds
• Toy dogs
• Utility dogs

These seven main groups of dog types are outlined in brief detail below in order to assist you in making your choice of dog.

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Working dogs

Working dogs have been bred mainly to promote certain characteristics that allow them to assist man in a number of activities. These have included guarding premises, pulling loads, hunting or rescue work. Working dogs are generally of a medium to large size and are often strong willed and have a need for high levels of activity and a lot of exercise to occupy and stimulate them when they are kept as pets.

Working dogs generally need a good firm approach in dog training, although they are intelligent and learn very quickly. These dogs are are very loyal and form a strong bond with the owner. Working dogs can be challenging for the first time dog owner and those with small children. Typical breeds within of this group are the Doberman Pinscher, Boxer and Great Dane.

Herding (or pastoral dogs)

Herding dogs were bred for the specific purpose of rounding up and herding livestock, including sheep, cattle and deer. They are very energetic and have tremendous stamina and  therefore need a lot of exercise to keep them occupied, or they can become bored and difficult to manage.

Herding dogs are generally highly intelligent and will enjoy stimulating and challenging play. With a strong chase instinct, which requires controlling early on in training, these dogs can have a tendency to chase and nip any moving object, including children. With proper training and exercise they can make very faithful family pets, but their demands are amongst the highest of any of the dog breeds, which means they will not suit all individuals. Typical breeds of pastoral dogs are the Border Collie, the German Shepherd and the Shetland Sheepdog.

Terriers

Terrier dogs have been bred mainly to help catch and kill prey such as vermin, or to assist  in the hunting sports. They are generally small to medium in size and typically are very tenacious and feisty.

Terriers do have a tendency to bark a lot and can be prone to chase and nip. This can cause problems around young children. On the other hand, with adequate training they will make very loyal and loving pets and they continue to very popular amongst dog owners. This dog type includes the Jack Russell Terrier, Border Terrier and the West Highland White Terrier.

Gundogs (or sporting dogs)

Gundogs were bred to assist with hunting game birds and are a highly intelligent group of dogs. Gundogs are particularly receptive to training and enjoy a lot of close contact with the owner and a high degree of activity.

Gundogs are very active and alert and will need a lot of attention but it will be paid back with dividends. They are very playful dogs and are usually good with children. There are three main sub groups of sporting dogs namely the Retriever, the Pointer and the Setter, each having been bred to have a different approach to helping with game hunting. Typical examples of this breed are the Labrador Retriever, the Irish Setter and the Springer Spamiel.

Hounds

Hounds have been bred to have a particularly good sense of smell to help in chasing and hunting down their prey. They also have high stamina levels and particularly enjoy to be kept in groups or packs and tend to be very sociable dogs.

Hounds also have a powerful chase instinct and a deep bark, but they are generally not prone to barking excessively, unlike the Terriers. They can sometimes appear a bit lazy at times but do enjoy high levels of exercise activity intermittently. Typical examples of this dog type include the Basset Hound, Bloodhound and Beagle.

Toy dogs

Toy dogs were mainly bred for the purpose of human companionship and over the years have had  much  of the working instincts bred out. They have often been regarded as playthings of the rich and famous.

Toy dogs are usually very small in stature and they are generally well mannered. They enjoy close human contact and often seek approval and affection from their owners. They are best suited to those with minimal space but have a particular predisposition to ill health. Toy dogs include the English Toy Spaniel, Chihuahua and the King Charles Spaniel.

Utility dogs

Utility dogs are a mixed group and includes a range of types of diverse size and characteristics, although they are generally medium to large dogs. They often have some of the characteristic of the other dog types, but not to the same degree, as it has been lost over the years. Utility dogs include some of the very popular family dogs such as the Dalmatian, Boxer and Chow Chow.

These dog groups obviously can include a wide range of different dogs, but they do provide a useful broad outline approach when first considering getting a dog.

You should, of course, research in more detail the breeds that appeal to you most and ideally go to visit the breeders or animal rescue centres to meet some dogs in the flesh before making your final decision. Some time spent in the company of a dog will quickly give you some idea of how confident, friendly and approachable the dog is likely to be and  whether it would meet your requirements.

Whichever dog type you finally choose I do hope that you have  many years of pleasure and companionship together.

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