DOG BREEDS

Like people, animals are different, too. For example,
there are so many different breeds of dogs in the world that
sometimes it can be hard to believe they are the same species.
They can have different physical traits that are obvious to
see like size, color, hair type and shape. They can also have
very different personalities. These different traits are used to
define dog breeds. Breeds are groups of dogs that have the same traits because of their genetic makeup. Unfortunately, sometimes specific breeds can come with bad traits, too. It is common for German shepherds to have hip dysplasia, which can be very painful as the dogs get older. ere are also mixed breeds, o en referred to as mutts. These dogs don’t t into a specific breed.

• The American Kennel Club recognizes 167 dog breeds.
• The eight American Kennel Club groups of dog breeds are sporting, hound, working, Terrier, toy, non-sporting, herding and miscellaneous.
• Dogs can vary in size from over 150 pounds to just two pounds.
• Many of the animals in animal shelters are purebred.
• The most popular breeds in the U.S. are: Labrador retriever, golden retriever, German shepherd, beagle and dachshund.
• All dogs are descended from wolves.
• The most popular breed in the world is the Labrador retriever.
• In the Middle Ages, Great Danes and mastiffs were sometimes used to help defend supplies in battle.

  Some even got their own armor.

  It is the differences in breeds that make dogs so special. O en these differences were chosen very specifically by the people breeding the dogs. For example, the Newfoundland breed has webbed feet and water-resistant hair. is makes them excellent at the job they were meant for: helping
  fisherman bring in their nets and saving drowning people. Collies
  are known for their intelligence and obedience, which is perfect
  for their job of herding animals like sheep. It is all these different
  traits and diversity that make dogs so useful, fun and interesting.
  Every dog is an individual, but considering the breed can be an
  important part of choosing a new pet.