1 of 9

7 Dog Groups

&

The American Kennel Club

2 of 9

American Kennel Club (AKC)

  • 1884
  • At a glance:
    • Largest and oldest all-breed registry (190 breeds)
    • Rescue Network
    • Disaster Relief
  • What they do:
    • Encourage dogs as family companions
    • Advance canine health and well being
    • Advocate for dog owner rights
    • Educate the public about responsible dog ownership

3 of 9

Working Group

  • Quick to learn
  • Intelligent, strong, watchful, alert
  • Assist humans
  • Guard property, pull sleds, water rescues
  • Dog Examples:
    • Akita
    • Boxer
    • Giant Schnauzer
    • Great Dane
    • Portuguese Water Dog
    • Samoyed

4 of 9

Sporting Group

  • Active & Alert
  • Work closely with hunters
  • Four basic types
    • Spaniels
    • Pointers
    • Retrievers
    • Setters
  • Water & Wood instincts
  • Dog Examples:
    • Brittany
    • English Cocker Spaniel
    • Golden Retriever
    • Labrador Retriever (rank 1)

5 of 9

Hound Group

  • Acute scent
  • Stamina
  • Unique sound- baying
  • Dog Examples
    • American Coonhound
    • Basset Hound
    • Beagle
    • Bloodhound
    • Dachshund
    • Whippet

6 of 9

Terrier Group

  • Feisty
  • Energetic
  • Hunt vermin & guard families
  • Stubborn
  • Dog Examples:
    • American Staffordshire Terrier
    • Mini Schnauzer
    • Russell Terrier
    • Rat Terrier
    • Scottish Terrier

​

7 of 9

Toy Group

  • Short
  • Affectionate
  • Sociable
  • Adaptable
  • Smart
  • Protective
  • Dog Examples
    • Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
    • Chihuahua
    • Chinese Crested
    • Pomeranian
    • Pug

8 of 9

Non-Sporting Group

  • Diverse group
  • Varying sizes, coats, personalities, and appearance.
  • Dog examples
    • Boston terrier
    • Dalmatian
    • French Bulldog
    • Lhasa Apso
    • Shiba Inu
    • Xoloitzcuintli (Mexican Hairless)

9 of 9

Herding Group

  • Were a part of the Working Group until 1983
  • Instinctual ability to control the movement of other animals
  • Gather, herd and protect livestock
  • Dog Examples
    • Australian Cattle Dog
    • Border Collie
    • Welsh Corgi
    • German Shepherd
    • Old English Sheepdog

​