Kinds Of Dogs
Dogs are man’s best friend, and the kinds of dogs that you see around are defined by the role that they play in a family’s life. The kinds of dogs are chosen by owners for particular tasks based on their intellect and disposition.
Sporting Dogs
Sporting dogs are those that can withstand the rigors of the outdoors. They usually have high energy levels, which is important in hunting alongside humans for many hours. They are also used for this function because of their trainability.
Intelligent dog breeds are perfect for sporting. Many of these dogs are light-footed, can run fast, and can be trained to follow particular odors such those of game animals. Some of these dogs are large but lithe, and very muscular. They are not easily spooked by gunshot and shouting, and can refrain from barking for an extended period of time. Their function as hunting dogs comes from their original use by early settlers. The disposition of these dogs are suitable for hunting, especially when trained.
Examples of sporting kinds of dogs: golden retriever, German pointer (shorthaired and wirehaired), setters (Gordon and Irish), Labrador retriever, spaniel breeds and Vizsla.
Non-sporting Dogs
Non-sporting dogs are relatively smaller than sporting dogs, and they are not expected to keep up a high level of energy for hours. They are expected to stay indoors and are very trainable. The ideal disposition for non-sporting dogs involves patience, loyalty and cheerfulness. These non-sporting dogs usually have thick hair that can be groomed. These dogs are particularly patient during grooming time and won’t give the owner a hard time while bathing.
Non-sporting dogs are kept mainly as pets or companion dogs. They don’t work on the farm or around the house, but they do have strong barking ability, which could serve as protection for the owners of the house.
Examples of non-sporting kinds of dogs are Bulldog, Chowchow, Spitz, Dalmatian, Keeshond, Poodle, Lowchen and Lhasa apso.
Working Dogs
Working dogs are usually large and imposing, and can perform a variety of tasks. The temperament of working dogs is perhaps the their most striking characteristics. They can be trained for various jobs, which may include staying still for extended periods of time. Unlike hunting or sporting dogs, they are generally suited for routine or repetitive tasks that they have been trained to do on a daily basis. Working dogs are distinguished from herders or sporting types because they do other work besides these.
Some of the common tasks for working dogs include helping an elderly or blind individual cross the street or walk around the town, and pulling carts. These dogs, when expertly trained, are able to expect work at certain times a day and will stick to a routine very well.
Examples of working kinds of dogs are Boxer, bullmastiff, Doberman, German Pinscher, Great Dane, Great Pyrenees, Comondor, Rottweiler, Saint Bernard.
Herding Dogs
These dogs excel in running and have high energy levels. Their main function as herders can be traced back to their original use. These dogs are large and well-adapted to spacious surroundings. They are also good barkers and can stand watch over a large herd for an extended period. They stand watch and keep the herd in place as shepherds or cattle owners do other tasks. These dogs are highly loyal and are imposing enough to intimidate common predators like wolves.
Examples of herding kinds of dogs are German Shepherd, Belgian Sheepdog, Belgian Tervuren, Border Collie and Canaan Dog.