Choosing a dog breed that is right for you will depend on a variety of factors. What size is your home? How much time can you spare each day? How active are you? The answers to these questions will vary from dog owner to dog owner, and so it’s important to choose a breed that best suits your lifestyle.

Working Dogs

Over the centuries, working dogs were selectively bred to become guard, search, and rescue dogs. As a result, they tend to be extremely obedient and independent dogs, and are more open to training than others. Working dogs tend to be larger in size and so might be unhappy living in a flat or a small house with no outdoor space. Instead, they are better suited to a larger home. Working dog breeds include the Boxer, Great Dane, St. Bernard, Mastiff, and Husky.

Pastoral Dogs

 

The Pastoral Group consists of herding dogs that are associated with working cattle, sheep, reindeer, and other cloven footed animals. Usually, this type of dog has a weatherproof double coat to protect it from the elements when working in severe conditions. This means that they tend to shed a large amount of fur, which is one factor to take into consideration when choosing a dog. Like working dogs, they are best suited to more spacious environments. Pastoral dog breeds include the Border Collie, Old English Sheepdog, Samoyed, and German Shepherd.

Terrier Dogs

 

The term 'terrier' comes from the Latin word Terra, meaning earth. This hardy collection of dogs were selectively bred to be extremely brave and tough, and to pursue foxes, badgers, rats, and otters above and below ground. Terriers are smaller in size than most other dogs and so can happily live in smaller houses. Despite their size, they need a lot of exercise, making them an ideal companion for the sport savvy. Terrier dog breeds include the Jack Russell Terrier, Scottish Terrier, and Bull Terrier.

Hound Dogs

 

Hound dogs were originally used for hunting, either by scent or by sight. Many of them enjoy a significant amount of exercise, and can be described as dignified and trustworthy companions. They are best suited to medium sized homes with access to outdoor space. Hound dog breeds tend to vary in size, from smaller breeds such as the Beagle and Dachshund to larger breeds such as the Bloodhound, Whippet, and Greyhound.

Toy Dogs

 

Many toy dogs were bred for the purpose of being a small companion or a lap dog, whilst other toy dogs are placed into the category simply due to their size. If you’re looking for a dog with plenty of personality that loves attention, this is the one for you. They don’t require a lot of exercise or a large home. Toy dog breeds include the Italian Greyhound, Pug, Yorkshire Terrier, Shih Tzu, and Pomeranian.

Utility Dogs

 

The Utility Group consists of miscellaneous breeds of dog, mainly of a non-sporting origin. This group is an extremely varied bunch, with most breeds having been selectively bred to perform a specific function not included in the sporting and working categories. Utility dogs are best suited to more spacious homes and tend to shed a large amount of fur. Utility dog breeds include the Bulldog, French Bulldog, Dalmatian, Akita, and Poodle.

Gun Dogs

 

Gun dogs were originally trained to find live game and/or to retrieve game that had been shot and wounded. Nowadays, they make good companions and their temperament makes them ideal all-round family dogs. Gun dogs tend to be rather intelligent due to their hunting background, making them easier to train than other dogs. Gun dog breeds include the Golden Retriever, Labrador, Cocker Spaniel, and Weimaraner.

Once you’ve decided on the right type of dog for you, the next step is to buy or rehome one! Learn everything you need to know before bringing a new puppy home in our blog post here or discover how to rehome a dog in our blog post here.