Dog breeds by group: a simple guide to the 7 types of dogs
Quick answer: Dog breeds are commonly grouped into seven types: sporting, hound, working, terrier, toy, non-sporting and herding. Each group was bred for a job, which still shapes its size, energy and temperament.
The seven groups
Most kennel clubs use groups like these:
- Sporting: Golden Retriever, Labrador, Cocker Spaniel
- Hound: Saluki, Greyhound, Beagle
- Working: Siberian Husky, Boxer, Great Dane
- Terrier: Jack Russell, Bull Terrier
- Toy: Chihuahua, Pomeranian
- Non-sporting: Poodle, Dalmatian, Bulldog
- Herding: German Shepherd, Border Collie
The Saluki, an ancient breed
The Saluki is one of the oldest known breeds, prized in the Arab world for speed and grace and depicted in ancient Egyptian art.
Choosing a breed
Match energy levels to your lifestyle: herding and sporting dogs need lots of exercise, while many toy and non-sporting breeds suit flats.
Breeds by group
Common groups and examples:
| Group | Examples |
|---|---|
| Sporting | Labrador Retriever, Golden Retriever |
| Hound | Saluki, Greyhound, Beagle |
| Working | Siberian Husky, Boxer |
| Herding | German Shepherd, Border Collie |
| Terrier | Jack Russell, Bull Terrier |
| Toy | Chihuahua, Pomeranian |
Breeds by country of origin
Where well-known breeds come from:
| Breed | Origin |
|---|---|
| Saluki | Middle East |
| German Shepherd | Germany |
| Labrador Retriever | Canada (developed in the UK) |
| Siberian Husky | Siberia, Russia |
| Chihuahua | Mexico |
| Shiba Inu | Japan |
| Afghan Hound | Afghanistan |
Frequently asked questions
What is the most popular dog breed?
The Labrador Retriever has topped popularity rankings in many countries for years.
What is the oldest dog breed?
The Saluki and the Basenji are among the oldest known breeds.
What is one of the oldest dog breeds?
The Saluki, associated with the Middle East.
Which group does the Labrador belong to?
Sporting, or gundogs in some countries.
Where does the Chihuahua come from?
Mexico.
Which breed is from Afghanistan?
The Afghan Hound.