Canine Group Classification

The attempts that have been made in different parts of the world to provide a systematic classification of dogs have been illogical and unrealistic. At times the classification is based on similar physical characteristics or on a common ancestry. Some groups are made up of breeds that are used for similar purposes. The efforts that have been made in this specialty have proven that it is not possible to set rules which will enable a complete and appropriate classification in groups. This in turn has resulted in the use of different classifications depending on each country.

In 1963, The FCI (Fédération Cynologique Internationale) established a system which consists of 10 groups, that is used in most European countries. These groups are:

1. Herding breeds
2. Guardian/police/hunting breeds
3. Retrieving dogs (terriers)
4. Badger dogs
5. Breeds for game hunting
6. Breeds for smaller game hunting

Dogs from Greenland on a sleigh, forming the so-called "Alaskan pull". During the stops they rest not minding the snow. They are used to always being outdoors.

7. Pointer dogs (except for the British breeds)
8. Pointer dogs (British breeds)
9. Other British pointer dogs
10. Lap dogs

The Great Britain Dog Club divides the breeds in six groups:

1. Bloodhounds
2. Pointer dogs
3. Terriers (Retrieving dogs)
4. Useful breeds
5. Working dogs
6. Lap dogs.

The classification stipulated by the American Dog Club is also composed of six groups, as the following:

1. Breeds for sport activities
2. Bloodhounds
3. Working dogs
4. Terriers (Retrieving dogs)
5. Lap dogs
6. Wolfhounds for seek purposes
7. Breeds not adequate for sport activities / House breeds
8. Lap dogs

The shepherd dog (Schäfer) serves for many things, especially as a tracker. Similar to the Lavinhund (Snow dog), the Schäfer has followed many times the track of buried people due to avalanches.