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THE SEVEN GROUPS | |
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The Herding Group This group consists of herding dogs, sheep dogs and cattle dogs. The dogs of this group were originally bred for agility, intelligence and vigor. The original herding dogs were instrumental in the advancement of mankind. By using herding dogs to keep livestock from running away and protecting livestock from wild animals, man was now able to keep a source of food for nourishment and materials for clothing within their reach. Australian Cattle Dog |
The Hound Group Hound dogs were bred for use in tracking and hunting larger animals. Hounds can be sub-divided into two groups: sight hounds and scent hounds. Sight hounds spot their prey at great distance and chase it until it is exhausted or cornered. Scent hounds are best suited for finding prey with their keen sense of smell. Today, police use sent hounds when searching for drugs and bombs. Dogs of this group include some strong yet graceful runners that can exceed 35mph. Afghan Hound |
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The Sporting Group Dogs of the Sporting Group were often bred and trained for bird hunting. Most Sporting dogs have sharp senses to detect prey and can point out the location of birds to their masters. Some breeds are best for hunting on solid ground while others are good swimmers, making them ideal for retrieving shot prey from wetlands and open water. The custom of using teams of dogs to hunt has led these breeds to become very friendly with other dogs. Sporting dogs are generally more sensitive to human emotions. American Cocker Spaniel |
The Terrier Group The name Terrier comes from the Latin word terra which means “soil” or “ground”, and these dogs are so named because they hunt prey hiding in borrows. Big hunting dogs are generally called Hounds and small ones Terriers. Every Terrier is endowed with an excellent sense of smell, agility, a fighting instinct, and intelligence. Terriers are classified as long-legged, short-legged, long-haired, short-haired, or rough-haired. Today they are gaining popularity as domestic dogs and show dogs rather than hunting dogs because of their good appearance, agility and cuteness. Airedale Terrier |
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The Toy Group
Some dogs from the Hound group, Sporting group, and Terrier group are grouped into the toy group. These are distinguished by their small size, cuteness, and desirability as pet dogs and have become indispensable companions to many people. Affenpinscher |
The Non-Sporting Group
Dogs that are suited for specific work and others that are not related to dogs of other groups in appearance or lineage are classified in the Non-Sporting group. Some are suitable for circus acts, as they have an attractive appearance and an excellent understanding and memory. Others are better rat catchers than Terrier are, or are excellent guard dogs as they don’t bark unnecessarily. It almost seems wrong to call them ‘non-sporting’, as they are all, without exception, wonderful dogs. Bulldog |
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The Working Group Dogs sense and approaching enemy and warn their masters. This was the origin of many guard dogs. Today they include brave and loyal military dogs; pack dogs pulling heavy packs; big but gentle life saving dogs; enormous and competent guard dogs; fighting dogs that once battled other dogs and animals; police dogs; companion dogs serving the deaf and the blind; sled dogs, and so on. Akita |
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