A person looking to own a purebred dog has a tough choice to make; there are great dogs in so many different breeds. Here is a basic outline highlighting the characteristics and needs of each breed.
Herding dogs - Dogs from this breeding group make excellent guard dogs. They were bred to be working dogs, so a herding dog needs to stay active for hours each day. Take them on frequent walks and play with them outdoors.
Hounds - Hounds are loyal and popular dogs that come in all shapes in sizes, from Beagles and Dachshunds to Greyhounds and Bloodhounds. They are smart dogs who often learn commands easily but follow them only sporadically. Hounds are easily distracted by their acute senses of sight and, especially, smell because they were bred to be hunting dogs. To prevent a hound from running away it needs to be kept on a leash when it goes outside. Otherwise, its senses will likely lead it on an impromptu hunt. Many varieties of hounds also have a loud bark that they use often.
Nonsporting Group - Dogs in the nonsporting groups include well known dogs such as American Eskimo Dogs, the Bichon Frise, Bulldogs, and Dalmations. There exists such a diversity within this group that a potential owner would be wise to look up characteristics of the specific dog breed rather than base a decision on the category to which that breed belongs dog belongs.
Sporting dogs - As the name implies, dogs belonging to this group are very high-energy, athletic animals that need plenty of exercise and stimulation. Sporting dogs are not lazy lap dogs; they were bred to assists hunters by finding a retrieving game. Many of them make great pets because they are even-tempered dogs that get along well with children and adults. Pointers, Retrievers, Setters and Spaniels are all sporting dogs.
Terriers - One of America’s most well known dogs, Toto, belongs to this group. His character provides a great example of what an owner should expect from a terrier. They are feisty
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