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Information on Dog Breeds

Information on all dog breeds to help you find what dog breed is best for you.

There are over 800 dog breeds being recognized by various kennel clubs worldwide. As all dog breeds have been derived from mixed-breed dog populations, the term "purebred" has meaning only with respect to a certain number of generations. Most dogs, especially outside Western Europe & USA, belong to no recognized breed.

Over the last 10,000 or more years, dogs relationship with man has created a few basic breed types have evolved gradually. In fact, most modern breeds are of relatively recent derivation. Many of these breeds are the product of a deliberate process of artificial selection. Consequently, some breeds are highly specialized, and there is extraordinary diversity in both character and looks, across different breeds. Even prize-winning purebred dogs sometimes possess crippling genetic defects due to inbreeding.

The definition of a dog breed is a matter of some controversy. To ensure 'purebred' dogs would require extreme inbreeding to qualify. However, the result of such breeding practices includes severe health or behavioral problems. Other organizations define a breed more loosely, such that a dog may be considered of one breed as long as 75% of its parentage is of that breed. Such considerations need to be given, especially for those dog owners that enter their dogs into Dog Show Events. The behavior and appearance of a dog of a particular breed can be predicted fairly accurately. Mixed-breed dogs on the other hand, show a broader range of innovative appearance and behavior.

To see a full list of A - Z Dog Breeds - CLICK HERE

To see a dog breeds comparison chart - CLICK HERE

 

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