People have been breeding dogs since prehistoric times. The earliest
dog breeders used wolves to create domestic dogs. From the beginning,
humans purposefully bred dogs to perform various tasks. Hunting,
guarding, and herding are thought to be among the earliest jobs
eagerly performed by the animal destined to be called βmanβs best
friend.β
There are over 340 dog breeds known throughout the world. The American
Kennel Club recognizes 193 breeds. Find out which of these breeds
would be a good fit for you by reading the descriptions below or
taking our quiz.
Learn more about the origins of dog breeds from the American Kennel Club.
Goldens are outgoing, trustworthy, and eager-to-please family dogs, and relatively easy to train. They take a joyous and playful approach to life and maintain this puppyish behavior into adulthood. These energetic, powerful gundogs enjoy outdoor play. For a breed built to retrieve waterfowl for hours on end, swimming and fetching are natural pastimes.
Upbeat, lively, inquisitive, and friendly, the jaunty Russell Terrier was developed by England's "Sporting Parson" for use in foxhunts. The adorable Russell Terrier looks like a plush toy come to life but is an eager, tireless working terrier.
Big, powerful, and built for hard work, the Bernese Mountain Dog is also strikingly beautiful and blessed with a sweet, affectionate nature. Berners are generally placid but are always up for a romp with the owner, whom they live to please.