Dogs are one of the most popular pets in the world. With so many breeds to choose from, it can be overwhelming to determine which one is right for you. In this article, we will explore the question, “how many dog breeds are there?” We will delve into the different organizations that recognize dog breeds, the number of breeds recognized by each organization, and some interesting facts about the different breeds.
- Contents:
- How are dog breeds recognized?
- Recognized by the AKC
- Recognized by the FCI
- Recognized by the UKC
- Recognized by the CKC
- Recognized by the Kennel Club (UK)
- Interesting facts
- Conclusion
How are dog breeds recognized?
Dog breeds are recognized by various organizations around the world. These organizations have different criteria for recognizing a breed as an official breed. In general, these criteria include breed standards that outline the characteristics and traits that define a particular breed. Some of the most common organizations that recognize dog breeds are:
- American Kennel Club (AKC)
- Federation Cynologique Internationale (FCI)
- United Kennel Club (UKC)
- Canadian Kennel Club (CKC)
- Kennel Club (UK)
Recognized by the AKC
The American Kennel Club (AKC) is one of the most well-known organizations for recognizing dog breeds. As of 2021, the AKC recognizes 197 breeds. These breeds are classified into seven groups: Sporting, Hound, Working, Terrier, Toy, Non-Sporting, and Herding. The AKC also recognizes Foundation Stock Service® breeds, which are breeds that are not yet eligible for AKC registration but are still considered purebred.
?AKC-recognized dog breeds table?
| Group | Number of Breeds |
|---|---|
| Sporting | 31 |
| Hound | 32 |
| Working | 30 |
| Terrier | 31 |
| Toy | 23 |
| Non-Sporting | 20 |
| Herding | 30 |
| Foundation | 11 |
Recognized by the FCI
The Federation Cynologique Internationale (FCI) is an international organization that recognizes dog breeds. As of 2021, the FCI recognizes 362 breeds. These breeds are classified into 10 groups: Sheepdogs and Cattle Dogs, Pinschers and Schnauzers, Molossoid Breeds, Swiss Mountain and Cattle Dogs, Terriers, Dachshunds, Spitz and Primitive Types, Scenthounds and Related Breeds, Pointing Dogs, and Retrievers-Flushing Dogs-Water Dogs.
Recognized by the UKC
The United Kennel Club (UKC) is another organization that recognizes dog breeds. As of 2021, the UKC recognizes 305 breeds. These breeds are classified into nine groups: Sighthounds & Pariah Dogs, Scenthounds, Gun Dogs, Terriers, Northern Breeds, Companion Breeds, Guardian Dogs, Herding Dogs, and Feist.
Recognized by the CKC
The Canadian Kennel Club (CKC) is the primary registry body for purebred dogs in Canada. As of 2021, the CKC recognizes 175 breeds. These breeds are
classified into seven groups: Sporting, Hound, Working, Terrier, Toy, Non-Sporting, and Herding.
Recognized by the Kennel Club (UK)
The Kennel Club (UK) is the oldest recognized kennel club in the world and is responsible for registering and recognizing purebred dogs in the United Kingdom. As of 2021, the Kennel Club recognizes 221 breeds. These breeds are classified into seven groups: Hound, Gundog, Pastoral, Terrier, Toy, Utility, and Working.
Interesting facts
- The oldest known dog breed is the Saluki, which has been around for over 7,000 years.
- The smallest dog breed is the Chihuahua, which can weigh as little as 2-6 pounds.
- The largest dog breed is the Great Dane, which can weigh up to 200 pounds.
- The most popular dog breed in the United States is the Labrador Retriever.
- The Basenji is the only breed of dog that is unable to bark.
- The Samoyed breed is known for their friendly and sociable nature, which makes them terrible watchdogs.
- The Shar-Pei breed is known for its wrinkled skin, which was originally bred to provide a better grip for dog fighters.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the number of dog breeds recognized around the world varies by organization, with the AKC, FCI, UKC, CKC, and Kennel Club (UK) being some of the most well-known. Each organization has its own set of criteria for recognizing a breed as an official breed, and these criteria often involve breed standards. Regardless of the organization, there are hundreds of dog breeds to choose from, each with its own unique set of characteristics and traits. Whether you are looking for a small lap dog or a large guard dog, there is a breed out there for everyone.
FAQs
What is the rarest dog breed in the world?
The rarest dog breed in the world is the Xoloitzcuintli, also known as the Mexican Hairless Dog.
What is the most expensive dog breed in the world?
The most expensive dog breed in the world is the Tibetan Mastiff, which can cost up to $3 million.
What is the easiest dog breed to train?
The easiest dog breed to train is the Border Collie, known for their intelligence and eagerness to please.
What is the most intelligent dog breed?
The most intelligent dog breed is the Border Collie, followed closely by the Poodle and the German Shepherd.
What is the oldest dog breed?
The oldest dog breed is the Saluki, which has been around for over 7,000 years.
What is the most popular dog breed in the world?
The most popular dog breed in the world is the Labrador Retriever.
What is the most loyal dog breed?
The most loyal dog breed is the German Shepherd, known for their devotion and loyalty to their owners.
