Family (Dog Breed Family)
A breed family is a broader grouping of related breeds that share ancestry or similar working roles. Families often include multiple breed types and functions.
Examples: Retriever family (Labrador Retriever, Golden Retriever), Shepherd family (German Shepherd, Belgian Malinois)
Breed Types
Breed types are subcategories within families that describe working style or structure such as Spaniels, Retrievers, Setters, and Pinschers.
Examples: Cocker Spaniel, Golden Retriever, Irish Setter, Doberman Pinscher
Toy
Toy dogs are small breeds (typically under 15 pounds) bred specifically for companionship and indoor living. They are defined by both small size and companion purpose.
Examples: Chihuahua, Pomeranian, Yorkshire Terrier
Companion Dog
Companion dogs are bred primarily for companionship rather than work roles. Unlike Toy breeds, they are not size-restricted and can range from small to large breeds.
Examples: French Bulldog, Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, Shih Tzu
Terrier
Terriers are energetic dogs bred for hunting vermin. Defined by drive and boldness rather than size or companionship.
Examples: Jack Russell Terrier, Bull Terrier, Scottish Terrier
Guardian
Guardian breeds are developed to protect people, property, or livestock. Defined by protective instincts and strength.
Examples: Rottweiler, Doberman Pinscher, Great Pyrenees
Working
Working dogs are bred for tasks such as guarding, pulling, and rescue work. Defined by job performance and endurance.
Examples: Siberian Husky, Boxer, Saint Bernard
Spitz
Spitz breeds are cold-climate dogs with thick coats and curled tails. Defined by physical traits and heritage.
Examples: Akita, Samoyed, Alaskan Malamute
Hound
Hounds are hunting dogs that track by scent or sight. Defined by tracking and pursuit instincts.
Examples: Beagle, Bloodhound, Greyhound
Sporting
Sporting dogs assist hunters in locating or retrieving game. Defined by field work ability and trainability.
Examples: Labrador Retriever, Golden Retriever, English Springer Spaniel
Herding
Herding breeds are highly intelligent dogs developed to control livestock. Defined by instinctive movement control.
Examples: Border Collie, Australian Shepherd, German Shepherd
Water
Water breeds are developed for swimming and aquatic retrieval. Defined by water endurance and swimming ability.
Examples: Newfoundland, Portuguese Water Dog, Irish Water Spaniel
Non-Sporting
Non-Sporting breeds are diverse dogs that do not fit other categories. Defined by variety rather than a single function.
Examples: Bulldog, Dalmatian, Chow Chow
Foundation Stock Service (FSS)
FSS breeds are recorded but not yet fully recognized. Defined by registration status rather than type.
Examples: Azawakh, Thai Ridgeback, Peruvian Inca Orchid
Primitive
Primitive breeds are ancient dogs with minimal modern breeding influence. Defined by natural instincts and early canine traits.
Examples: Basenji, Shiba Inu, Canaan Dog
Dog Intelligence (IQ)
Dog intelligence refers to learning ability, problem-solving, and trainability. Working breeds often excel in obedience, while companion breeds may excel in social intelligence.
Examples: Border Collie, Poodle, Basenji