Gundogs
Gundogs (or Sporting Dogs) can be divided into three main categories – Retrievers, Pointers and Setters. These animals were bred primarily to work with people to hunt game birds. Some of these work in water whilst others are more suited to work on land and many of them in this category are comfortable and capable of working in either land or water environments. Gun dogs are particularly suited to wood and field activities.
Hounds
As implied by its name hounds have been bred to chase a quarry by sight or smell, or a combination of both, relentlessly until they have captured their prey. Some have exceptional eyesight, combined with the speed and stamina necessary to catch the intended prey once seen, typical examples being the Greyhound and the Whippet. Hounds which rely strongly on the sense of smell to follow the trail of a prey, such as the Bloodhound, quite literally follow their noses, speed and eyesight is of less importance.
Terriers
Dogs in the Terriers group were developed to hunt and kill vermin. These included rats, mice and other predatory animals such as foxes that might have raided a farmer’s produce and livestock. The very nature of these tasks require an energetic, tenacious, brave and determined dog . Terrier dogs have always been viewed as real assets by their owners and have worked with man for centuries. Also known for the sometimes over excitable nature, there is never a dull moment.
Toy
Animals in the Toy Dogs Group were initially developed to ease the lifestyle and provide pleasure to rich people. They were initially owned by the wealthy and were viewed by others as status symbols – a luxury item with little apparent purpose. Dogs in other groups had specific working roles and played a major part in providing food for the table and therefore justified the cost of their upkeep and care – these were the dogs which were commonly owned by the lower classes.
Utility Dogs
A rather miscellaneous category, Utility Dogs are defined by the Kennel Club as breeds that do not fit into other categories. These include Chow Chows, Dalmations, German Spitz, Schnauzers and Poodles.Many chose to call these ‘special dogs’; they certainly are some of the more unusual and interesting breeds, and in America they are known as ‘Non-sporting Dogs’. Many of these are very ancient, created for some particular purpose in the past which has now been forgotten.
Working Dogs
Animals in the Working Dogs group, were developed to perform a wide variety of tasks, such as herding, droving, pulling, hauling, herding, hunting, rescuing and guarding. The very nature of many of these tasks require a big, strong dog. These dogs have a long and close association with man and have provided invaluable help to their owners. The working dogs are generally large, intelligent, and protective of their masters.
