As you begin your search for a dog, you are probably asking: "What kind of dog is best for me?" Dogs come in different sizes, colors, coats, and personalities. Start your dog ownership with the right foot when doing your research before choosing a breed.

While there are about 400 recognized breeds, the best place to start is looking at approx. 155 breeds recognized by the American Kennel Club, divided into seven categories wide. Within each category of race are the subgroups.

Sporting Group

Sporting dogs were originally bred to help birds manhunt by recovering water birds or shrubs. Nature has determined to recover, but also love to fetch balls and newspapers, and make great companions. Sports Group members include retrievers, pointers, setters, spaniels y. A naturally active breed, regular exercise is a brisk pace with these dogs to avoid excessive chewing, jumping and barking.

Hound Group

Dogs were originally bred for hunting. There are three major subgroups hounds, greyhounds and hunting dogs more. Pets greyhounds make soft but not like running behind the fast-moving targets. These include the Greyhound, Irish Wolfhound, and Whippet. Scent dogs follow their nose and may be difficult to get their attention when they are on the trail of something. They are sweet, loving, and make good companions. Among them are the Beagle and Bloodhound. Large hunting dogs, like the Rhodesian Ridgeback was bred to hunt lions, elk and other game. They are powerful, fearless and make good watch dogs.

Working Group

The breeds in this group were bred to help man. His works range from sledding and rescue surveillance. They are intelligent, learn quickly, and make good companions. However, most of them are very large, strong dogs that may not be suitable for families with young children. Proper training is very important in these races. Among the sled dog breeds such as the Siberian Husky and Samoyed, draft dogs that were bred to pull heavy loads, as the Bernese Mountain Dog, guard dogs like the Bullmastiff, Rottweiler and Akita, and rescue / water dogs as the Newfoundland and St. Bernard.

Herding Group

Dogs in the herding group were, you guessed it, bred to herd. They are lively, agile, alert, respond well to training, and make great pets. They love lots of exercise and if you can not find a flock of sheep who happily (and quietly) herd their owners or children. Include Sheepdog Australian Shepherd, Border Collie, German Shepherd, Old English Sheepdog, Cardigan Welsh Corgi and Pembroke Welsh Corgi.

Non-sporting group

Originally, many of these dogs were working dogs, but these days they are mainly companions. These breeds vary greatly in size, coat, temperament and personality. Among the different races are the Bichon Frize, Chow Chow, French Bulldog, Keeshond, Poodle, and Schipperke.

Terriers

Terriers are a particular group, and original race, either as hunters of insects or fighting breeds. Hunters Vermin are cheerful, independent and do better with a leash when outdoors. Terriers can become barkers or jaw, if not properly trained, It may be aggressive over food or toys. The battle group includes the Bull Terrier and American Staffordshire Terrier. They can be good pets if the training and socialized properly, but training can be a potential hazard to people and other dogs.

Toy Group

Toy breeds are very small, playful, devoted to their owners, and the love and attention demand. Its main objective is adorable and they're terrible poodle. They need less exercise than other breeds and do well in apartments or small rooms, and are a good option for older people. Some, however, may bark or bite if they are trained. Toy breeds include the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, Chihuahua, Maltese, Pekingese, Pug and Toy Poodle.

By doing your research before choosing a race, you will be a major step forward in the search dog to suit your personality and lifestyle, and have a great companion for years to come.

Valerie Goettsch is webmaster of My Favorite Dog featuring articles and information on types of dog breeds, dog health issues, training, and more.

Medium & Large Dog Breed Care : How to Care for a Rottweiler