| It is believed that dogs originated from
wolves, who settled around human habitation centuries ago.
As wolves wandered into human territory frequently, man and
wolf became familiar to each other thus bridging the gap between
man and the wild. Man probably noticed how wolves behaved
in packs seeing characteristics like protectiveness, loyalty
and submissiveness to the head of the pack. Over time, it
was quite easy to build a bond with wolf cubs honing in on
their characteristics to make them an aid to guard their community
or to help their master during hunting.
While the development and civilization of man continued,
various breeds of dogs were formed. Dog breeders began to
search for ways and means to improve his environment as well
as to facilitate a higher standard of living. Dog breeders
therefore began to adapt his environment and what it contained
to suit his needs. Animals were not excluded from this pursuit
and this led to the creation of various dog breeds too.
What do we mean by a 'Breed'?
‘Breed’ is defined as a line of descendants perpetuating
particular hereditary qualities and as a homogeneous grouping
of animals within a species, developed by humans. The common
thread in these two definitions is that a group of animals
have similar qualities whether they originated due to changes
in their environment or due to selective breeding done by
man. Each breed has its own set of attributes and needs; it
is therefore important to have this information. We can thus
make an educated choice to suit our purpose and to help ensure
the required care for our dog.
Classification of breeds:
Various dog breeders organizations and groups categorize
dog breeds into different categories depending on the aspect
they are using to categorize them. We have decided to categorize
our dogs based upon the purpose they were bred for which is
one of the common ways of classifying them. We therefore have
8 classes, the last one comprising of a mixture of breeds
that cannot yet be put into the seven other classes. Let us
understand the main characteristics of each of these classes.
Hounds: As the name suggests these were created to
hound, that is, to hunt. Some hounds have an extremely well-
developed sense of smell which no doubt helps them track prey.
Some hounds could pursue their prey without tiring for quite
a long time. This group includes a variety of breeds and therefore
it is difficult to list out common traits. This category can
be further divided into long- legged and short- legged hounds.
Terriers: These dogs are full of life, aggressive, expressive
and are always ready for a good fight. They don’t take
to other animals or dogs as easily as you would want them
to and are therefore not encouraged with families having too
many other animals at home. They can be a little stubborn
which is why they need firm and consistent training. It is
believed that they originated from hounds and that their ancestors
hunted and killed pests. They are quite hardy and therefore
are less susceptible to diseases when compared to the other
breeds.
Sporting: These dogs are always on their guard and are very
energetic dogs, which make them well-liked by dog owners.
These breeds are noted for their sixth sense in forests, therefore
quite a few of breeds are used in hunting and other activities.
These breeds required revitalizing exercise to help them keep
in form.
Toy: These dogs were bred for one purpose- to add
a spark of beauty to the owner’s life. They may not
necessarily serve as guards or even have enough energy to
play around all day but they are easier to manage due to their
small size and are therefore chosen by people on the move
or living in small apartments. Some breeds have quite an irritating
bark, so one needs to choose carefully.
Non-Sporting: This class includes a number of breeds
that vary in size, physical attributes and character. They
are all pretty sturdy dogs.
Working: This class includes dogs that were developed to
guard, draw sleds and to execute other tasks which is why
they are considered as true assets. Considering the tasks
they were bred to perform, they are no doubt noteworthy for
their intelligence and strength. Herding was also one of the
tasks performed by these breeds, but there is now a separate
class created for these breeds and therefore no longer come
under the Working class. Some breeds are quite huge and therefore,
you need to ensure that you have considered that before choosing
them as your companions.
Herding: This group includes breeds that were developed to
herd other animals although they do make good pets too. Although
the size of the other animals is much larger, these breeds
playfully manage to herd animals by constantly jumping, barking
and nipping the animals until they move in the direction required.
These breeds are less stubborn and therefore can be trained
more easily as compared to some of the other classes.
Miscellaneous: Breeds that have not yet found their
way into the other classes, but are constantly increasing
in interest and breeding activities, are categorized under
this class. Once there is proof of its continued existence
and expansion, the breed could be moved from this class to
one of the above mentioned classes depending on their characteristics.
There are many dogs that have been inter-bred for generations
together and therefore are recognized as a purebreed since
the same breed was used to develop them over a long period
of time. If two different breeds are bred together or if the
breeding partners come from a mixed lineage, the obtained
breed is called a hybrid. It is interesting to note that up
until today there are purebreds and hybrids being created
and therefore the list of breeds is an ever changing one.
There always exists a debate when deciding which breed fits
in what category. Moreover, the basis upon which the breeds
are classified also varies across organizations and groups.
Information on Dog Breeds (we will be regularly updating
this section) :
> Affenpinscher
> Afghan Hound
> Aidi
> Ainu
> Banjara Greyhound
> Banter Bulldogge
> Barbet
|
