According to DNA analysis and scientific evidence, dogs were domesticated from wolves thousands of years ago. Over time, these dogs evolved into many different types of dogs that exhibit a great degree of variation.

In fact, dogs found worldwide are so different that it would be futile to classify them were it not for the presence of certain dog organizations whose only purpose is to distinguish breeds and ensure the purity of each one.

In the United States, the largest registries of pure bred dogs are the American Kennel Club (AKC) and the United Kennel Club (UKC). These registries try to classify the different types of dogs into their purpose whether or not they are working dogs, hunters, companions, etc.

Knowing the different types of dogs can be very useful when picking your dog. It all depends on what you need a dog for. If you want a true retriever or a hunting dog, then it is best if you choose a breed which has generations of expertise bred into him. On the other hand, if you only want a dog for a pet, then choose one that is social and readily adapts to the family.

Below are some of the more typical types of dogs to give you an idea:

Hounds

The AKC classifies these types of dogs all under one category. However, the UKC further classifies them into two: the sight hounds and the scent hounds.

Sight hounds are those types of dogs that hunt by sight, such as Greyhounds and Whippets. They are typically fast runners and very obviously enjoy the chase. Indoors, they are quiet and complacent.

Scent hounds are those that hunt by scent. Examples of these types of dogs are Beagles, Bassets, and Coonhounds. Like the sight hounds, scent hounds enjoy the chase. However, instead of chasing small animals, they are more apt to enjoy the scent trail and generally very vocal about it.

Sporting Dogs

The UKC refer to them as gun dogs. Either way, these types of dogs are bred to retrieve, swim, and work all day. They are companion dogs as they prefer not to be alone most of the time. Examples of these types of dogs are pointers, setters and spaniels.

Terriers

Both the AKC and the UKC classify these types of dogs under one category the terriers. The terrier’s favorite prey are rodents and they are specifically bred to cleverly discover their prey’s hiding places. Examples of terriers are Scotties, Airedales and Bedlingtons, all of whom share the same characteristics of terriers: wiry coats and short upright ears.

There are many more types of dogs that you can choose from. There are working dogs, herding dogs, and companion dogs. These dogs likewise vary in sizes, color, and overall temperament. So continue to research and discover what breed of dog is really right for you.