Dog Breeds: Understanding The Hound Group

Dogs in this group loves to chase fast-moving objects, which makes them the number one choice for a hunting companion. There are three groups of dogs that fall under the hound group – the scenthounds, the sighthounds, and the large-game hounds.Scent HoundsThe scent hounds are dogs that are bred to follow scent. They are trained to track down prey by using their excellent sense of smell. Their strong drive to follow a scent makes them hard to obedience-train because they can easily get distracted by any smell in their surroundings. They are affectionate to their family, great with children, and gets along well with strangers. T

hey are active, energetic dogs that need plenty of exercise.Examples of scent hounds are: Beagle, Dachshund, Harrier, Otterhound, American Foxhound, Basset Hound, Black and Tan Coonhound, English Foxhound, Bloodhound, and Petit Basset Griffon Venden.SighthoundsSighthounds use their eyesight to spot a prey before they go for the chase. The instinct to run after a prey or an object makes this breed difficult to obedience train. Early socialization, especially with small animals such as cats and birds, is mandatory in order to tame down this breed's prey instinct.

They need daily exercise and proper obedience training.Examples of sighthounds are: Saluki, Whippet, Afghan Hound, Borzoi, Greyhound, Pharaoh Hound, Ibizan Hound, Basenji, Irish Wolfhound, and Scottish Deerhound.Large Game HoundsLarge game hounds were bred to have stamina, strength, and endurance. Their superior sense of smell makes them an excellent hunting companion. Originally bred to hunt elk and other game, this breed tends to be aggressive toward small animal. Early training and socialization is required to modify this behavior. This breed makes a great watchdog.

They are initially suspicious of strangers and does not tolerate roughhousing. Children should be taught to be gentle with breed. Owner of large game hounds must have time to train and exercise this active breed.Examples of large game hounds are: Rhodesian Ridgeback and Norwegian Elkhound.

Dog Breeds: Understanding The Non-Sporting Groups

The Non-Sporting GroupDogs that are placed in this group were originally developed for a specific task. However, because man does not rely on these dogs anymore for work that used to be assigned to them, these breeds are mainly kept as a family pet and companion. Behaviors and personalities of dogs in this group vary significantly because each of them were originally bred to do different jobs. Because of the difference in personalities and traits of these breeds, it would be wise to consult an expert such as a vet or a breeder of that specific breed before you make the purchase.

This way, you know what to expect and if that particular breed will fit into your environment and lifestyle. Below are examples of breeds that fall under this category:Lhasa Apso, Bichon Frise, Bulldog, French Bulldog, Schipperke, Shiba Inu, Tibetan Terrier, Keeshond, Lowchen, American Eskimo Dog, Boston Terrier, Chow Chow, Tibetan Spaniel, Poodle (Standard and Miniature), Finnish Spitz, Dalmatian, and the Chinese Shar-PeiExotic Breeds If you are interested in owning a rare, hard to find breed, consider the following listed below:

Norwegian Lundehund: The name means “Puffin Dog.” This breed is famous for his six toes and genuine talents that are traced back to puffin hunting at the time of the Ice Age.Leonberger (Leo.): This large, energetic dog was first developed in Germany and has lion-colored coat.S

wedish Vallhund: Originated in Sweden and was used to herd sheep and cattle. This Spitz type breed makes a great family pet.Cesky Terrier: Originated in Czechoslovakia in 1949 by crossing a Scottish Terrier with the Sealyham Terrier.Louisiana Catahoula Leopard Dog: Originated in the United States. This versatile dog is a first-class worker both in hunting game and herding cattle. At home, he is very protective of his family and makes and excellent guarddog. Polish Owczarek Nizinny Sheepdog: A shaggy dog known in the United States as Polish Lowland Sheepdog or simply PONS. This breed is intelligent, confident, and territorial. He is loyal and affectionate to his family and suspicious of strangers. This dog is easily adaptable and makes a great watchdog.