Breeds of dogs can be wonderful companions and loyal friends. Here's everything you need to know about these dog breeds.
Breeds of Dogs - Dog Breed Facts
1. AKC Group:
Different breeds of dogs are
classified differently according to the AKC standards. They can be in the
terrier, toy, and herding, sporting, hound, non-sporting, working, or
miscellaneous group of dogs in this organization.
2. Size & Weight:
Small dogs can be only a few inches high and a few pounds while large dogs can be over 200 pounds and several feet high.
3. Coat:
Dogs have a variety of coats including short, long, wiry, medium, and broken.
4. Head & Muzzle:
The heads and muzzles of dogs vary. Heads can be flat, rounded, small, or large and muzzles can be narrow, broad, or tapered.
5. Body:
The body style of a dog will depend on its breed and gender.
6. Colors:
Dogs come in many colors. Some popular colors include yellow, tan, fawn, brindled, black, white, red, and mixed colors.
7. Life Expectancy:
Some dogs live as little as 7 years while some survive for more than 15 years.
8. Popularity:
Dogs are a very popular pet in the United States and abroad.
9. Habitat:
Some dogs do well in apartments because of their adaptability, while others need outdoor exercise space.
Breeds of Dogs - Dog Breed Origins
1. Country of Origin:
Dogs have originated in Germany, France, Australia, England, and other countries from around the world.
2. Lineage:
The lineage of a dog refers to what type of dogs was bred to create the specific breed.
3. Date Admitted to AKC:
Some dogs were admitted to the AKC early in the 20th century while others have been admitted within just the past two years.
4. Historical Information:
Dogs were commonly used for herding or hunting before they became companion animals.
Breeds of Dogs - Dog Breed Defining Characteristics
1. Training Ease:
Willful dogs are difficult to train, while docile and friendly dogs may be easier to train.
2. Temperament:
The temperament of dogs ranges from aggressive to completely docile and friendly.
3. Child Friendly:
Some dogs can be considered babysitters for children. Others are aggressive and do not tolerate children well.
4. Behavior:
Dog behavior can range from shyness to outgoing playfulness.
5. Habits:
Dogs can have peculiar habits such as chasing their tails or sloshing water in their bowls.
Breeds of Dogs - Dog Breed Concerns
1. Health Issues:
Some problems you may encounter with your dog are vision, deafness, allergies, skin conditions, joint injuries, back problems, and cancer.
2. Feeding:
Regular feeding and fresh water is a must.
3. Exercise Needs:
Dogs need regular exercise, but some can exercise indoors while others need to go outside.
4. Grooming Needs:
The grooming needs of a breed will depend on the type of coat it has.
5. Special Household Needs:
Puppy-proofing houses and doing
proper house training are special needs for dogs.
6. Travel Needs:
Some dogs cannot travel well; others can be carried in a crate or carrier.
7. Getting Along With Other Pets:
Some friendly dogs get along with other pets while aggressive dogs do not.
Breeds of Dogs - How to Choose your Dog Breed
1. What to Look for in a Healthy Puppy:
Look for signs of disease or defect. Check the skin, ears, and fur for parasites.
2. What you will Need for a New Puppy:
You'll need all the accessories required for feeding, grooming, and exercising a pet such as food, leashes, collars, and brushes.
3. Puppy-Proofing Your House:
Block off any areas you don't want your pet getting into.
4. How to Make your New Puppy Feel at Home:
Let your new pet acclimate itself to the house and make sure you socialize it with others.