Picking the best dog for your family can turn out to be a larger decision than you might ordinarily think it would be. Approximately speaking we can come up with at least 330 differing breeds of dog and another 80 that are the result of cross-breeding of purebred dogs.
Breeds Combined Bred To Be Smaller
A number of breeds were combined in order to maintain original characteristics but develop dogs that were smaller in size than the originals. Given the vast array of breeds to choose from each has to be considered separately based upon their individual traits, dispositions, and dimensions.
Once Hunters Now Family Dogs
Each dog found within the group will have mutual and some prevailing characteristics. Given that some of the variables to be considered are dogs that in later times were largely bred for hunting now find they are bred to suppress the hunting instinct and more for serving as family pets. So that the families of today can relegate their hunting forrays to the local supermarket rather than the rural wilderness.
Primary groups of dog types include- toys, companions, guards, working, spaniels, terriers, sighthounds, scent hounds, spitz, and herding. Suffice to say this does not include illustrious “Heinz-57” or pound mutt, whose precise heritage is not known.
Historically Workers
Each of the breeds is known for its ability to perform certain jobs. Historically, all dogs were working dogs – helping with sheep herding, cattle tending, fetching game, guarding property, or tracking escapees.
Housepets were not common as they are today. Each dog breed still carries the genetic code for its original type of work. You need to know how that dog is genetically programmed before you bring him home.
The dog that’s naturally a watchdog won’t be the cuddly playmate for your small children. The greyhound, particularly the rescued greyhound, is gentle and quiet, but they must have plenty of outdoor time to run. As a dog that can gain speeds of up to 45 mph, the greyhound is not a dog for couch potatoes.
Protectors of Children
If you want a medium to large dog that will be easily trained and protective of your children, then choose a pastoral or herding dog like the Old English sheepdog, Collie or Welsh Corgi. The instincts they have for keeping sheep in the pasture adapt to keeping your children inside the backyard while keeping intruders outside.
When having a dog means a smaller pet that’s purely for amusement with little expectation, then look at the toy dog breed. Among this group, you find Chihuahua, Poodle, Manchester Terrier, Pug, Pekingese, Shih Tzu, and King Charles Spaniel. Don’t expect any work from this group. Toy dogs are masterful at finding ways for you to work for them.
Companion and Partner to Hunters
The hunting breed has a proud tradition as a faithful companion and partner to hunters. These dogs include the Golden Retriever, Labrador Retriever, English Springer Spaniel, English Setter, Irish Setter, and Cocker Spaniel. Even if you don’t hunt, give these dogs the kind of open field exercise that makes them feel useful in a way that’s part of their heritage.
Some breeds require space, while others need primping for show that rivals what you see among fashion models. Perhaps the easiest breed to bring home and love is the “pound mutt.” In all shapes and sizes, these dogs have endured hardships that landed them in the shelter, when all they want is a family to love. Bring one home and you’ll have a lifelong companion and a pet that will over time become a beloved member of the family.