Do you love pets? Take a look at the most popular dog breeds and care according to their breed

What are dog breeds?

A dog breed is a group of dogs that share very similar, or even nearly identical, physical and behavioral characteristics.

This is because they come from a line of ancestors specifically selected for these same qualities.

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Definition and origin of dog breeds

Well, they are groups of dogs that share specific physical and behavioral characteristics due to artificial selection by humans.

These differences arise from selective breeding in order to develop specific qualities such as size, working ability or temperament.

The origin of the dog breed dates back thousands of years, when the first domesticated wolves began to adapt to life alongside humans.

Over time, humans selectively bred dogs with certain traits to fulfill specific functions, giving rise to the diversity of dog breeds existing today.

Importance of breeds in history and culture

According to a National Geographic article, dogs have been called “man’s best friend” for a reason: their loyalty, affection and desire to please.

Many people have experienced firsthand the unconditional support of their pets, such as Sharon Reid, who found comfort in her dog after the death of her husband.

Beyond affection, dogs also provide mental health benefits. For example, they help reduce stress, foster empathy and combat loneliness. No wonder most owners consider them part of the family.

In addition to being loyal companions, many dogs play important roles in society: guarding herds, assisting in hunting, protecting homes, and working in police or rescue work.

Some have even been trained to detect disease or assist people with disabilities.

Over the centuries, the relationship between humans and dogs has evolved. In several countries, new laws have been implemented for their protection, reflecting a change in the way we view and treat them. Undoubtedly, this alliance will continue to strengthen over time, the article stresses.

Nevertheless, dog breeds have played a key role in various civilizations. In Ancient Egypt, greyhounds were considered status symbols, while in the Middle Ages mastiffs were used in war and hunting.

Today, the dog breed continues to have great relevance in popular culture, from starring in movies to playing essential roles in society, such as assisting people with disabilities or police work.

How dog breeds are classified

Dog breeds are classified according to various criteria, such as size, function and origin.

The Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI) and other organizations establish categories based on the morphology and abilities of dogs.

Among the most common classifications are:

• By size: small, medium and large.
• By function: hunting dogs, shepherds, guardians, companion dogs, among others.
• By genetic group: according to their lineage and hereditary characteristics.

Most popular dog breeds

Dogs have been faithful companions of humans for centuries, and over time, certain breeds have gained great popularity for their character, intelligence and appearance.

From playful Labradors to tiny Chihuahuas, each breed has unique characteristics that suit different lifestyles.

Here are some of the most beloved breeds around the world.

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Small Breeds: Chihuahua, Pomeranian, Dachshund

Small dog breeds are usually chosen by people who live in small spaces. Among these breeds are:

• Chihuahua: they are brave, loyal and have a great personality despite their tiny size.
• Pomeranian: they stand out for their fluffy fur and inexhaustible energy. They are playful and affectionate.
• Dachshund: curious and brave, their elongated body makes them unmistakable.
• Bichon frisé: cheerful and friendly, with a curly coat that requires constant care.
• Pug: charismatic and sociable, they are known for their wrinkled face and their love for human company.
• Yorkshire terrier: intelligent and lively, they have a strong character and are very attached to their owners.
• Shih tzu: sweet and sociable, they enjoy human company and have a long and elegant coat.

These breeds not only stand out for their size, but also for their personality and adaptability, which makes them excellent pets for different homes.

Medium Breeds: Beagle, Bulldog, Border Collie

Among medium-sized dog breeds, the Beagle is widely known for its exceptional sense of smell. Although clearly, there are many others, among them are:

• Border collie: intelligent and energetic, they are considered the most intelligent dogs and require a lot of mental and physical stimulation.
• English Bulldog: calm and friendly, they have a relaxed character and are ideal for indoor life.
• Beagle: curious and sociable, with a great sense of smell and lots of energy to explore.
• Cocker spaniel: affectionate and playful, they have a silky coat and need regular exercise.
• Basset hound: with long ears and a great sense of smell, they are calm and loyal, although somewhat stubborn.
• Australian shepherd: intelligent and active, they are working dogs that shine in sports and training.
• Medium Schnauzer: protective and loyal, with a distinctive mustache and an energetic personality.

These breeds offer a perfect combination of size and temperament, adapting to different lifestyles, from active families to quieter homes.

Large Breeds: Golden Retriever, German Shepherd, Labrador

These large breeds excel in strength, nobility and loyalty. Many of these dogs have been bred for work, protection or companionship, and require adequate space and exercise.

Some of the most popular breeds include:

• Labrador retriever: friendly, intelligent and energetic, they are ideal for families and excel at relief work.
• Golden retriever: sweet and sociable, with a balanced character and a great learning ability.
• German Shepherd: loyal and protective, they are very intelligent and commonly used in security and rescue.
• Rottweiler: strong and brave, with a natural protective instinct and a great attachment to their family.
• Siberian Husky: active and hardy, they need a lot of exercise and have an independent character.
• Doberman: elegant and agile, they are excellent guardians and very obedient with proper training.
• St. Bernard: gentle and affectionate, famous for their rescue work in the snow and their large size.
• Great Danes: imposing and friendly, despite their size, they are known as “gentle giants”.

These breeds need space, physical activity and proper education, but in return they offer unmatched companionship and unconditional love.

Dog breeds by function

Throughout history, dogs have been bred and selected to perform various functions according to human needs.

Some breeds specialize in hunting, others in protection, herding or police work. There are also companion dogs that stand out for their friendly and adaptable character.

Knowing the breeds according to their function helps us to better understand their characteristics and needs, allowing us to choose the ideal companion according to our lifestyle.

Companion and therapy dogs

Many breeds of dogs have been bred for human companionship. Examples include the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel and the Bichon frise.

In addition, some dog breeds are used in assisted therapy, helping people with emotional or physical problems.

According to Purina, the dogs best suited for therapy are:

• Labrador retriever: sociable and intelligent dogs that respond very well to training.
• Golden retriever: calm and with a great sensitivity to detect emotions. They are ideal for interventions in hospitals, schools and residences.
• German Shepherd: intelligent, confident and with a high level of self-confidence.
• King Charles Spaniel: small, obedient and very affectionate. Perfect for those who are afraid of big dogs.
• Poodles: they stand out for their intelligence and ease of learning. Their cuddly appearance makes them ideal for therapy with children.

Working dogs: herding, search and rescue.

According to the American Kennel Club (AKC), dog breeds commonly used for herding, search and rescue work include:

Herding:

• Border collie: renowned for their intelligence and energy, they are excellent for herding sheep and cattle.
• Australian Shepherd: versatile and agile, they excel at handling different types of livestock.
• German Shepherd: in addition to their herding skills, they are valued in police and rescue work due to their intelligence and versatility.

Search and rescue:

• Labrador retriever: with a keen sense of smell and a friendly nature, they are ideal for search and rescue operations.
• Golden retriever: their intelligence and willingness to work make them suitable for rescue and assistance missions.
• Belgian Shepherd Malinois: known for their energy and focus, they are frequently employed in search and rescue operations, as well as in police work.

These breeds have been selected and trained to perform specific functions that take advantage of their natural abilities and temperaments, contributing significantly to various human tasks.

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Guard and Protection Dogs

Likewise, the American Kennel Club (AKC), assures that several dog breeds are recognized for their abilities as guardians and protectors.

Some of these are:

• German Shepherd: known for their intelligence, loyalty and versatility, they are excellent in protection and police work.
• Rottweiler: of robust build and protective nature, they are loyal to their families and act as effective guardians.
• Doberman pinscher: agile and alert, they combine speed and endurance, making them natural protectors.
• Bullmastiff: originally bred to protect property, they are courageous, loyal and possess an imposing presence.
• Boxer: with a vigilant and energetic nature, they are protective of their homes and families.

These breeds have been selected for their protective instincts, loyalty and ability to respond to potential threats, making them popular choices for guarding and protection.

Care according to the breed of dog

Each breed of dog has its own needs and characteristics that determine the specific care they require.

From feeding to exercise, coat maintenance and health care, it is essential to know the particularities of each breed to ensure their well-being.

Proper care not only improves the quality of life of dogs, but also helps to prevent long-term health problems.

Exercise and physical activity needs

According to Purina, exercise and physical activity needs vary significantly among dog breeds, as each has different energy levels and temperaments.

Some breeds, such as the Border collie and German Shepherd, are highly active and require constant exercise to stay balanced and healthy. These dogs need activities that challenge both their body and mind, such as running, playing fetch or playing dog sports.

On the other hand, breeds such as the English Bulldog or Basset hound have lower energy levels and do not need as much exercise, although a daily walk is still important for their health.

It is essential to adapt exercise routines to the energy level of each dog, as too much activity in less energetic breeds can be counterproductive, while a lack of exercise in very active dogs can lead to behavioral and health problems.

In general, knowing the specific physical activity needs of each of the dog breeds is key to ensuring that they stay happy, healthy and balanced.

Proper nutrition for each breed

The proper diet for each breed of dog varies depending on factors such as size, activity level and genetic predispositions.

Although there is no specific guide for each breed, the following general recommendations can be considered:

• Size and age: puppies and large breed dogs require diets rich in protein and calories for healthy growth. Conversely, small or older breed dogs may benefit from foods with fewer calories and age-specific nutrients.
• Activity level: active or working dogs, such as Border collies or German Shepherds, need higher energy and protein diets to maintain performance. While less active dogs, such as the English Bulldog, require fewer calories to avoid overweight.
• Health conditions: some breeds are prone to specific health problems that can influence their dietary needs. For example, dogs with digestive sensitivities may benefit from diets with limited ingredients or hypoallergenic formulas.

It is essential to consult with a veterinarian to determine the most appropriate diet for each of the dog breeds, considering their breed, age, activity level and general health.

In addition, it is advisable to choose food from recognized brands that support their products with scientific research and quality standards.

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Common health problems by breed

Some breeds of dogs are prone to certain hereditary diseases. Some of these may include:

• The Bulldog can suffer from respiratory problems due to its morphology.
• The German Shepherd is predisposed to hip dysplasia.
• The Cocker spaniel can develop ear infections due to its long ears.
• The Labrador retriever is prone to hip and elbow dysplasia, obesity and eye problems such as cataracts.
• The English Bulldog, due to its brachycephalic morphology, can suffer from respiratory problems, such as brachycephalic syndrome, and skin conditions.
• The German Shepherd is susceptible to hip and elbow dysplasia, as well as autoimmune diseases and digestive problems.
• The Dachshund (Dachshund) is predisposed to spinal problems, such as herniated intervertebral discs, due to its long back.
• The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel can have heart problems, such as mitral valve disease, and eye conditions.

It is important to mention that although certain breeds of dogs have predispositions to specific diseases, preventive care and regular veterinary visits can help detect and manage these health problems early.

Knowing about these common problems helps owners be more vigilant and take preventative measures to ensure a healthier life for their pets.

Frequently asked questions about dog breeds

When choosing a dog breed, many questions arise about its characteristics, care and temperament.

How do I choose the right breed for my lifestyle?

Choosing a dog breed should be based on factors such as available space, time to devote to the animal and level of physical activity.

Active breeds, such as the Siberian Husky, require a lot of exercise, while breeds such as the French Bulldog are more suitable for urban environments.

Is it better to adopt a purebred dog or a mongrel?

Adopting a purebred dog or a mongrel depends on the adopter’s needs. Although it will always be better to adopt than to sell animals.

While dog breeds have predictable characteristics, mixed breeds tend to be more resistant to genetic diseases and may have unique personalities.

What breeds are ideal for families with children?

There are many breeds of dogs that are great family companions, as well as being loving, but to name a few that are recommended for families with children include the Labrador retriever, Golden retriever, Shih tzu and Beagle.

These breeds are characterized by their stable temperament and tolerance of children, making them ideal for living in family environments.

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