If you’ve ever been to a dog show before, you’ll know that there are multiple dog breed categories, which each contain multiple breeds.
In the UK, there are 7 categories for dog breeds, each with its own unique features and history behind it. Some are called different names in different countries, but most of them are grouped by their original purpose and characteristics.
These categories are not only useful for grouping dogs for showing but also help new buyers narrow down their search and find a breed that’s the perfect fit for their lifestyle.
For novices, here’s a breakdown of the dog breed categories in the UK and the types of dogs found in each.
Gundog
The gundog breed contains dogs that were bred for various types of retrieval or flushing of game birds. Within this group, there are 4 subcategories: Retrievers, Spaniels, Setters and Pointers. Each type is slightly different and has unique uses, but many are also great pet dogs as well.
Terrier
Terriers are hardy working dogs bred originally for pest control but are now kept mostly as beloved family pets. Many breeds of terrier can also be used for dog sports thanks to their agility and high drive. Because of their background, these dogs have a high prey drive and can be difficult to keep if you already have cats or other small pets, but each dog and breed is different.
Hound
Hounds are hunting dogs that come in two types, Sighthounds and Scenthounds. These dogs were bred for hunting, meaning they have an extremely high prey drive and enjoy chasing other animals. Therefore, like terriers, they can struggle around smaller animals and cats, but some hounds, particularly laid-back breeds like Greyhounds and Whippets, have been known to get along with other pets.
Pastoral
Called the herding group in other countries, Pastoral dogs were bred to round up livestock such as sheep, goats and cattle. Most herding dogs have a lot of energy and are highly intelligent, meaning they need a lot of mental and physical stimulation. While some Pastoral breeds are obvious, such as the Border Collie, others, like the Hungarian Puli or the Corgi, might not be.
Working
Working dogs were bred for a variety of occupations, including sled work, guarding and rescue dogs. Just because a breed isn’t in the Working group doesn’t mean it wasn’t bred to work. However, these breeds were created exclusively for their specific function and, as such, are often large, high-energy breeds that aren’t ideal for first-time dog owners, like Huskeys and Rottweilers.
Utility
The Utility group is effectively the miscellaneous category, comprising mostly non-sporting breeds that don’t have another category. Utility breeds include everything from mastiffs to Dalmations and dogs of all sizes and characteristics.
Toy
Toy dogs are not, as the name suggests, actual toys but simply smaller dog breeds that were usually bred for companionship. Some breeds are standalone breeds, such as Chihuahuas and Haveneses, which only come in small sizes. Others, such as Toy Poodles and Miniature Schnauzers, are smaller versions of their larger counterparts, which can be found in other groups.
What To Consider When Making Your Choice
Within each category there are many different breeds of dog, and each has its own unique traits. Dogs from the same group category but of different breeds can be incredibly different, so you need to consider breed as well as group.
When looking for a dog breed for your home, consider what you want them for. If you’re looking for a companion that likes to relax, then you need a dog with a lower drive for work. For those who live on land and need dogs that can herd or retrieve, or anyone who’s active and wants to do dog sports, then you’ll need to select a breed that’s active and flexible.
Other key considerations include size and grooming needs. If you want a dog that’s low maintenance, then choose one with a short, shedding coat. Non-shedding and long-haired dogs require more grooming and bathing, which can be expensive and time-consuming but worth it if you love that look and breed.
Once you find a breed of dog you like, talk to owners who already have one and network with members of the breed club to find out what to look for in a breeder or rescue dog. You’ll then be able to get an idea of what your chosen breed is like to live with and whether they’re as good a match as you thought.
Research is key when welcoming a new dog to the family, so use this article to begin your quest for your ideal dog breed. Remember that each dog is different, and just because it has some inherited traits doesn’t mean there are any guarantees about behaviour or health. By taking the time to find the right breed from a reputable breeder, you can improve your chances of finding the perfect dog that becomes a beloved member of your family.
