Understanding Dog Breed Groups

Pet-owners with a mixed-breed dog may be curious about their dog's ancestry and its personality traits and behaviors. Your dog's behavior, health conditions and temperament are often related to its breed makeup. Having a sire who was part Labrador Retriever, for example, can explain why your dog is so energetic and playful. Understanding the different dog breed groups, including the ones your dog belongs to, ensures that your loveable mutt's health and training plan best match its needs. Below, learn about several breed groups as recognized by the American Kennel Club.

Sporting Dogs:
Labrador Retrievers, Golden Retrievers, Cocker Spaniels and Irish Setters are Sporting dogs, a group of mainly friendly, well-rounded dogs. Sporting dogs are active and alert, making great companions when hunting or participating in outdoor activities. Because they need regular exercise, owners of Sporting dogs should make sure their dogs remain active.

Herding Dogs:
Members of the Herding group exhibit a strong talent for moving and grouping other animals. Herding dogs are often trained to assist farmers in moving cattle and sheep across pastures. In most households, the herding is reserved for family members, particularly children. Among the dogs that belong to this category are Border Collies, German Shepherds and Old English Sheepdogs.

Hound Dogs:
Hound dogs, such as Basset Hounds, Beagles, Dachshunds and Greyhounds, are known for their hunting skills -- whether a strong sense of smell to track down prey or the ability to run and chase other animals relentlessly. A unique trait of some hound dogs includes baying, a unique, unusual sound that potential owners should hear before bringing one home.

Terrier Dogs:
A Terrier's personality is very distinctive from other breed groups as terriers are typically exceptionally energetic, feisty and fearless. The Terrier group includes Bull Terriers, Scottish Terriers and Parson Russell Terriers. Terriers' ancestors were trained to control vermin, which explains the dogs' low tolerance for other animals.

Toy Dogs:
Dogs of the Toy group are perfect for dog-lovers who live in small spaces. They're not only known for their small size, but they also require relatively minimal care when it comes to shedding and training. Members of the Toy group include Chihuahuas, Malteses, Pomeranians, Poodles and Pugs. They are often referred to as "lap dogs."

Other breed groups include Working dogs, such as Boxers and Siberian Huskies; Non-Sporting dogs, such as the Bichon Frise and Boston Terrier; and the Non-AKC breeds, such as Toy Poodles and American Bulldogs.