Non-Sporting Breeds
This is the category from which many pet dogs are selected. The breeds may well have performed some task in the past, but in the main they are now the dogs whose sole purpose in life is to be a companion to their owners, from the Dalmatian, a former carriage dog, to the more sedate Chow Chow.
Working Breeds
This group covers the traditional guards and workers- rescue, sled, and draft dogs, those favored by the armed services, such as the Rottweiler. Bred to work, most are happiest when they are doing the job for which they are bred or at least when in an environment where their abilities will not go to waste.
Herding Breeds
The breeds in this group were originally developed to herd and protect sheep, such as the German Shepherd Dog, cattle, and other stock. Many are still used by shepherds and farmers, but they are also extremely adaptable as pets, often taking it upon themselves to herd the family together.
Gundogs
In this group are the pointers, retrievers(shown to the left is the Golden Retriever), and spaniels--all gundogs used variously to detect, flush out, and retrieve game. Usually gentle natured, many dogs in this category have the dual role of huntsman's dog and family pet.
Hounds
Hounds are often divided into those that hunt by scent, such as the Blood Hound and Beagle, and those that rely on their keen eyesight, like the Greyhound and the Saluki. Hounds are good natured but have a propensity to roam. Many hounds are kept in packs, in outside kennels, rather than living indoors.
Terriers
These dogs were bred to go to ground, to hunt vermin, and bolt the fox from its lair. Energetic, sporting, and sometimes noisy, most terriers are affectionate by nature, but they can be nippy. The West Highland White Terrier is a friendly and very popular dog.
Toy Breeds
Do not be fooled by the fact that the traditional ladies' lapdogs, such as the Pomeranian, come within this category. Most are splendid guards, keenly intelligent, energetic, affectionate, if somewhat possessive, and courageous to the point of stupidity.