Dog Breeds: Description and Selection

Dogs are man’s faithful companions for thousands of years. They accompany him in big cities and in small villages, in mountains and forests, in peacetime and in wartime. Therefore, it is important to understand what breeds exist, where and how they can be applied.

The answer to this question is very complicated, even if we take into account all the information of modern zoology and systematics. Moreover, each breed has several colors, and the sizes of individuals can vary greatly. The earliest known dogs initially served as a watchman and helper in the hunt. Later, their division into specific tasks began. The scope of individual rocks over time has noticeably changed, sometimes repeatedly.

It is not possible to establish the final exact number of breeds for another reason. Namely, because dog associations from different countries give different estimates of their numbers. It is all about the application of dissimilar criteria, and in many respects also in bias towards national priority. The World Cynological Federation has compiled a list of about 400 breeds. But this list is updated, because new breeds are periodically displayed.

One way or another, but the need to streamline and systematize the breed of dogs arose long ago. The very first division predictably turned out to be a gradation by function. The most popular group of four-legged pets are guard dogs. Their size is not necessarily large (contrary to the widespread stereotype), but in any case they have several common characteristics:

• flexible disposition towards the owners;

• easy passing of training;

• compulsory education and systematic training;

• high intellectual level.

The latter circumstance directly depends on whether the pet will be able to recognize the dangerous situation and correctly respond to the outwardly similar, but innocuous, set of circumstances. The shepherd dogs played an equally important role in human life for a long time. For them, apart from intellectual qualities, herd tracking skills are also significant. For such a “service”, traditionally quite courageous animals were selected that will be ready to fight with an aggressive predator.

If shepherd dogs dominate among herding animals, burrowed dogs with rare exceptions are terriers. Despite reducing the popularity of burrow hunting to a minimum, they remain in demand due to:

• significant energy;

• vigorous temperament;

• suitability for keeping in a big city.

Taken together, these qualities allow such breeds to be considered excellent companions.

The next category - the so-called primitive, they are indigenous or aboriginal, rocks. Nothing offensive in the word "primitive" is not here. The point is that the role of human intervention in the formation of such types is relatively small. It was limited to the selection of certain animals by nomadic peoples of the northern regions of Eurasia and North America for the transport of people and goods, for hunting and protection.

Vivid examples of native breeds:

• likes;

• husky

• spitz

The next group of purebred dogs - the so-called cop. They are characterized by an excellent response to what is happening around and an excellent sense of smell.

This allows you to consider them also excellent companions. Often, representatives of this group of breeds, such as the setter and the pointer, participate in exhibitions and even win in them.

Hunting is often used by another group of pets - beagle dogs. They are able to hunt down various animals and chase them even with a quick escape. Decent hounds differ:

• devotion;

• minimal whimsical content;

• self-sufficiency;

• penchant for vagrancy.

But the true "elite" of hunting dogs are greyhounds. They are peculiar to:

• endurance;

• excessive stubbornness;

• beautiful view.

They bring real benefits only in the hands of experienced owners. The last of the internationally accepted groups of groups is decorative dogs. For the most part, they are small in size (although this is optional).

A different approach to the classification of breeds may be practiced in various states and individual dog associations. For practical purposes, dog breeders sometimes divide their pets by size. Dwarf animals are valued by those who live in a small apartment or a modest house.

Among miniature breeds, there are much more long-livers than those of large species. True, the problem often becomes:

• susceptibility to various diseases;

• instability of the psyche;

• need for sophisticated care.

Just small pets (up to 0.4 m at the withers, weighing a maximum of 10 kg) are valued for their friendly disposition, curiosity and orientation towards the person. Such animals can already safely take with you for a walk or a run through the park and even on a long hike. They are kept in houses and apartments, but for captive maintenance, they are unlikely to fit.

Middle breeds (such as the Fox Terrier) are excellently trained and become excellent companions for children. But large individuals are used primarily for security, guard purposes, and as shepherds.

An important role is played by the dog's coat. Completely bare breeds are hypoallergenic, but less resistant to frost than hard-haired and shaggy species. In addition, they are superficially not everyone likes. Also emit:

• smooth coat;

• long haired;

• fluffy four-legged.

Varieties of these animals appeared at different times and under different conditions. From the moment when evolutionary studies began, experts tried to find out how long the dogs appeared, and which of them are older. But previous attempts made in the last century, gave an unsatisfactory result. Therefore, it does not make sense to turn to old literature in search of an answer to this question. Much better to focus on a study conducted in 2004 by geneticists.

The results of the examination show that they are:

• appeared before others;

• retained the most ancient features;

• closest in the structure of the genome to the wild wolves (although this point is optional).

In the II millennium BC in Japan appeared such a breed as Akita Inu. Even older such subspecies as the Pekingese, Saluki, Samoyed dog. In the I millennium BC were derived:

• Afghan hounds;

• lhasa;

• siba inu;

• Siberian Huskies;

• Tibetan Terriers;

• chow chow;

• shar pei;

• shih tzu.

At the second level (slightly later breeds) are:

• English Bulldogs;

• Newfoundland;

• Pomeranian Spitz;

• German Shepherd Dogs;

• German boxers;

• bullmastiffs;

• Swiss Mountain Dogs.

There is an assumption that the Akita Inu existed no less than 4 thousand years ago. In our country, however, such animals almost never occur. Alaskan Malamutes are another very ancient breed. This is evidenced by the resemblance to the wolf. And in Africa, one of the oldest types is Basenji. His unusual trait is the inability to bark.

Alphabetical listing of dog breeds is not very appropriate. It is much more correct to distribute them by region of origin.

Among the animals created in Italy, high Neapolitan mastiffs attract attention. Their height reaches 0.65-0.75 m, and their mass ranges from 60 to 70 kg. Similar individuals were first used in the Roman period, when fighting dogs were created.

Managed to reduce their aggressiveness. Despite these positive properties, the breed is not suitable for keeping in homes with small children. The reasons are considerable mass and huge magnitude.

A large physique is also characteristic of ancient Maremmo-Abruzzo sheepdogs. They try to keep with extraordinary dignity. Sheepdogs are characterized by fearlessness and constant vigilance. Because of pride, they are not very suitable for inexperienced dog breeders. At the withers, these animals grow to 0.65-0.73 m, their weight can be from 35 to 45 kg.

In France, many fashionable varieties of dogs are bred. No one will take, of course, argue about their absolute advantage. However, in any case, they deserve attention. It is, for example, the Bichon Frize (he is a French lapdog or tenerife). Unlike the same basset hounds, the owners will never see sad eyes - these animals look curious.

Tenerife covered with snow-white hair of silky structure. Their health level will please most people.

There are in France and Great Danes (marriages). They look no less attractive than spotted Dalmatians. Brakk differs extraordinary endurance and can hunt in any weather. This breed is recognized as one of the best among the copied species. They are characterized by:

• friendliness;

• appeasability;

• obedience;

• pronounced affection.

The sensitivity of pets is expressed in grievances at raising the tone, especially at physical punishment. Trainers should avoid undue harshness and coarseness. Marriage has a white-brown color. Brown spots have different saturation. Also noteworthy are the French mastiffs, bulldogs, and short-haired shepherd dogs.

Basset hounds are also an attractive French breed of dog. They have relatively short curved legs. The body of animals disproportionately extended. They are covered with brown, juicy red and white spots. Such pets are persistent and proud, but good-natured and keep a neutral, calm with children.

For this breed, hierarchy plays a crucial role. They behave invariably disciplined. If necessary, they will definitely come to the aid of the owners. The basset hound behaves tolerantly towards other animals. You can also make a home and hound ariezhua.

There are also various native dogs in the territory of the continent country. Australian herding dogs (common name - Kettle dog) stand out for an impressive intellectual development. In this regard, they are at least not inferior to the Siberian husky or husky. "Australians" are always faithful companions. If necessary, they bravely protect their owners. But in relation to the members of their families, the animals behave like friends, but do not show any impressive affection.

The height of the cattle dog can reach 0.42-0.5 m, and the mass varies from 15 to 20 kg. Keep it in the apartment is possible, but not recommended. The demand for the breed is due to:

• attractive appearance;

• considerable stamina;

• excellent obedience;

• unusual origin (from the dog dingo).

On the territory of the Iberian Peninsula, of course, there are also native types of dogs. There are more than 30 of them, while some of them are still not included in the lists of the world canine association.

Excellent reviews come in Spanish Alano, which was used in the past:

• when guarding herds of cattle;

• when hunting for bears, wild boars;

• for fighting.

Not surprisingly, these animals stand out with courage and stamina. Alano rushes towards a predator or another enemy, saving the masters, even if he himself faces death. The Spanish Mastiff has a good reputation. He was bred purposefully for the protection of herds, having done significant breeding work.

From ancient times, people know the Spanish galgo. It was widely used for hunting a hare and was considered one of the most valuable greyhounds in the world. Previously, there were special laws strictly punishing for his abduction or injury. But the Spanish water dogs have become popular companions. They were brought, as suggested, by traders from Turkey, and they have developed muscles, so they dive well and fish under water.

On the Korean Peninsula, there is such a breed of dogs as Hindo, or, in other words, Chindokke. The growth of these animals can range from 0.45 to 0.55 m. The mass varies from 15 to 23 kg. Pets are characterized by pronounced sexual dimorphism. The name of the breed is given in honor of the island where it first appeared.

In the description of Korean dogs it is necessary to mention that there are no written materials about their appearance. But there is reason to believe that the breed exists since ancient times. It is assumed that it has become a side branch of the development of Mongolian dogs, although there are other versions. Individuals living on the island preserve the characteristics inherited from long-standing predecessors. Since 1962, the Chindo has been declared a national treasure of the South Korean Republic. Their preservation and further development is a special research center.

Differences from any other spitz-shaped breed and hybrid are proportions of the skull, head in general, muzzle and torso. Chindo is intelligent and strong, vigilance is characteristic of him. The breed has two types - muscular and very slim. The South Korean National Cynological Association usually identifies a third subtype - its body is elongated, and the chest is rather deep. Animals can be brindle, fawn, gray, white, black and black and tan.

In the northern part of Korea, the hunting breed Phunsan was bred. Its name comes from the mountainous area where these animals were first created. Outside the North Korean territory, the breed practically does not occur. A characteristic feature is a thick thick wool, mostly white color. Phunsan often has a hooked tail, his ears are very pointed. These animals are agile and very powerful.

On the territory of the northern part of Great Britain, species of four-legged pets that are no less adapted to bad weather than Phunsan are widely found. Among them the attention of dog breeders for a long time attracts collies. This is not some kind of breed, but rather a whole conglomerate. Professionals usually allocate border collie and bearded dogs. But the selection of long-haired and having short animal hair causes intense controversy.

Both the world organization of dog handlers and its Russian branch recognize them as two branches. But the British themselves believe that the short-haired collie should be considered separately. Long-haired dogs have a very vague origin. There are versions of their appearance from:

• Scottish Celtic animals;

• individuals brought to the island by the Roman conquerors;

• Icelandic variety.

Collies are widely spread thanks to the policies of the Victorian period. Then these shepherd dogs began to be used as herders helpers even in New Zealand and Australia. They were appreciated for a calm disposition and lack of malice. Later, when the urgency of the dog escort of the herds decreased, the same properties made it possible to make excellent home companions from the collie. In our country, they first appeared in 1904 as orderlies on the Japanese front.

In Scotland, there are also eared dogs - Scottish terriers. Initially, they were used in the hunt for foxes, badgers and other inhabitants of deep holes. Purposefully develop this breed from the XIX century. You can meet the Scottish Terrier almost throughout the globe. Animals have powerful muscles; their head is strong, but it is proportional to the body.

Scottish Setters can also boast with long ears. They are used as gun dogs. Along with the hunting application, the "scot" can be an excellent companion. Cynologists suggest that this species is descended from Spaniels. The size of individuals grew due to crossing with other dogs (they usually assume that they were pointers).

Breeders with the support of hunters diligently standardized setters. Such a specialist as A. Gordon, tried to expel the snow-white color. He managed to create the ideal for the conditions of Scotland hunting dog. And it was Gordon's nursery that was home to the first setter, transported across the Atlantic. At the beginning of the XXI century, the number of these animals in North America has significantly decreased and now they are extremely rare.

Knowledge of breed names and their characteristics, of course, is important. But many people primarily pay attention to the coloring of pets. White animals look charming, which is why you should start with them. An attractive choice is often the Akbash dogs (bred in Turkey). This breed has been rapidly gaining popularity lately.

A large white animal loves to play outdoors and is not prone to aggressiveness. With small children, akbash behaves carefully, with full awareness of the responsibility that has arisen. Despite being considered a brand mark in this breed, the dog's coat remains clean for a long time. Combing it will have about 1 time in 7 days.

White color is characteristic of the Argentine Great Dane - a peculiar hybrid of Spanish mastiffs, bulldogs, wolfhounds of Ireland and several other dogs. The key base breed is a fighting dog from the Spanish Cordoba. White dogs can be riotous, so careful training is required. Argentines perfectly protect the home. They like active games, long walks.

The standard is white for bull terrier. Got it, hybridizing the English bulldog with Dalmatians and terriers. An energetic, strong dog is kind, he will like any occupation with the owners. But loneliness, even for a short time, is not well tolerated.

Very dark wool is also popular with many people. In addition, this color is often considered mystical and looking unusual. An example of black dogs can serve as an affenpinscher, he is one of the smallest breeds. Affences are mobile and strong, well prepared to catch rodents. The comic effect of appearance is caused by a muzzle, similar to a monkey, and a beard.

In France, there is also a black dog - barbet (although it may have other colors). These animals have an average size. They are covered with stiff hair, stopping cold and moisture. Barbets are described as:

• friendly minded;

• clearly performing commands;

• fast learning dogs.

Barbets bring undoubted benefits in dealing with children, with families in general and with people in age. The pet will be consistently connected with the whole family and invariably stays in the same room with the owners, if possible. Such an animal requires systematic physical exertion, without them his health is upset. Barbetam is characterized by craving for water, especially as hard hair facilitates swimming, regardless of the weather. Also noteworthy is the Black Belgian Shepherd Groenendael.

This color is typical for Thai Ridgebacks. But these animals can have gray-haired, black and even bluish colors. Breed animals began several centuries ago. Since visiting Thailand was then impossible for foreigners, for a very long time the breed remained unknown outside the country.

Thai Ridgebacks were obtained through the hybridization of spitz-like dogs with ordinary-looking hounds. The size of the dogs is not too large, their coat is also short. Animals are distinguished by agility. It is not difficult for them to jump high or climb a high place. Devotion to the host family is accompanied by suspicion of any outsiders.

The Brussels Griffons have the corresponding colors. The size of this dog is relatively small. She is able to live from 12 to 15 years. The descriptions mark out such traits of her character as:

• fair wariness;

• inquiring temper;

• high emotional sensitivity;

• vigilance in relation to all unusual;

• sense of self-importance.

Griffons can have both hard and smooth wool. If we proceed from typical aesthetic standards, the breed is not so beautiful. However, it exhibits an impressive personality and is appreciated everywhere where such animals appear. Despite the formal belonging to the category of "that", the griffons are not pampered.

Brown can also be attached to the poodle point. This is a large dog of Germanic origin. They are used for gun hunting. The feet of the poodle point are straight, set well and reliably support the body. The coat of this breed is dense enough for protection from the weather.

Sometimes any one dog coloring does not suit people. Then it is useful to pay attention to individuals painted in two or more colors. Exceptionally effective option - a three-color color, typical of collie. These dogs have a radically black background, with glossy, iridescent sunshine.

Marble, he is a blue merle - another color of this breed. Similar animals were bred quite recently and did not have time to get wide distribution. Silver-blue background dominates in such coloring. On top of it are black marks, spots and veins. That's why they talk about an elegant marble pattern.

The standard of the breed welcomes the presence of red tan. However, reject individuals in their absence should not be. Much stricter exhibition jury refers to the grayish or brown color of the awn and undercoat. Regardless of the specific color, the obligatory requirement is the presence of whitish marks. For them, even coined a special term - Irish spotting.

A good alternative is the Czech motley dog. This animal brought Professor Horak with the expectation of getting the perfect companion. Adults have an average size. They are friendly to the owners, do not cause them any inconvenience in their character, and in addition they perfectly guard the yard, the house. Motley dogs are adapted for life even on the street, do not require specific food and are distinguished by stable health.

Another type of multicolored animals is the Ecuadorian hairless catahula dogs. Contrary to the name, these leopard-colored animals appeared in Guatemala during the hybridization of the Peruvian and Mexican branches.They are extremely difficult to find even in South America. There is not a single kennel or breeder who would offer to buy such puppies. Such animals are considered excellent helpers in hunting, but they are not able to take a trail left more than 2 hours ago.

But the tracking of their game occurs in silence. Only occasionally there is a short barking, and then the pet becomes silent. Catahule tend to keep a reasonable distance from the owner. Predominant hunting specialization - tracking animals. The dog itself will not fight with wild animals.

Information about the color of the pet, of course, is not all. Many are interested in dogs with unusual appearance, in particular, similar to lions. They derived such varieties, focusing on the terrible glory of "the king of beasts." A striking example of this is the leonberger, bred in Germany. The breeder wanted this to be a dog that looked like a lion from the city coat of arms. In addition to the spectacular appearance, leonberger can boast suitability for the protection and for agricultural work. Mostly they are used today as companions. This is facilitated by their kindness and poise.

Of the smaller animals, Levkhen draws attention, it is also a small lion dog. In connection with the disappearance of the need for a “court” pet by the beginning of the twentieth century, the breed almost disappeared, but then enthusiasts restored it.

But lion-like dogs were bred outside Europe. A telling example is the Chow Chow. Their purpose is to protect the home and livestock, partly help in hunting. In the nature of the animals, stubbornness and faithful temper intricately intertwined. A characteristic external feature is a blue-black tongue.

Tibetan mastiffs are similar to the African predator with its mane. Such dogs are used for security purposes and as shepherds. They are very strong and smart. This allows you to provide reliable protection from all sorts of hazards. In this case, the pet remains calm almost always.

South Russian shepherds are quite popular. They may differ from the majestic African predator, but these dogs with bangs have tens of thousands of loyal devotees. White dogs with a benevolent expression should not be misleading - their temper is cruel, and their courage is almost indestructible.

Nobody knows how this breed appeared: already at the beginning of research it existed in a significant number of individuals.

If you turn to the top of the known varieties of dogs, then guaranteed to fall into it:

• yorkies;

• German Shepherd Dog and Veho;

• rottweilers;

• Dobermans;

• Labrador Retrievers;

• golden retrievers;

• spaniels;

• poodles;

• Siberian Huskies.

Some try to choose the most lazy animals. They are ideal for busy people, as well as for those who do not wish to reshape their day schedule to the needs of the pet. A good choice is the Neapolitan Mastiff. The seemingly aggressive appearance is deceptive. In reality, the nature of the beast is tender and good-natured.

It is useful to pay attention also to:

• Greyhounderov;

• English Bulldogs;

• basset hounds;

• shih tzu.

But even the best and the most affectionate, according to other people, the breed does not always suit people. Often, after several months, a puppy-looking and fun-loving puppy begins to create a lot of problems. In order not to have to get rid of the four-legged satellite in different ways, it is necessary from the very beginning to pick it up as carefully as possible. Even if you liked one of the options right away, you should definitely get acquainted with other offers. It is possible that they will be even better in practice.

In this case, you should think about other subtleties:

• financial opportunities;

• the amount of free time;

• conditions of placement of the animal in the house;

• preferences and needs of other family members.

You can often find mentions that only anti-allergenic animals are suitable as family animals. But it's not all as easy as it seems. If only because the allocation of hypoallergenic rocks is somewhat arbitrary. There are a large number of allergenic substances that appear during the life of the dog. And danger always exists - the only question is its size.

But allergies are not everything. The home conditions of most people do not allow enough space for a large dog to be allotted. She needs not only space to sleep, but also for food, and several times more - for walks in the house. Small pets will grow quickly, much faster than children. And therefore it is very dangerous to be deceived when choosing a puppy modest in size.

The calmer the dog, the less problems it delivers in the house.

Sometimes it makes sense to purchase a more adult animal. We must immediately clarify what specifically needs a dog. As a simple companion and ally it makes no sense to acquire expensive pedigree individuals.

What breed of dog to choose, see the video below.