As a curious dog enthusiast, you might find yourself asking, How Many Dogs Breeds Are There in the World?
The Global Dog Breed Count: A Complex Equation
Attempting to answer “How Many Dog Breeds Are There in the World?” is a task riddled with complexities.
Shocking Stat:
As of 2021, the World Canine Organization (Fédération Cynologique Internationale), the international canine federation that includes 98 member countries worldwide, recognizes 360 breeds.However, with the continued breeding and creation of new dogs, this number is always in flux, and the actual number of distinct breeds worldwide could be over 1000.
The global count of dog breeds can vary significantly depending on the dog breed registry organization in question. This disparity is largely due to differing standards and protocols for breed recognition among these organizations.
Examining Recognized Dog Breeds Worldwide
Several major kennel clubs and organizations worldwide recognize and register dog breeds. Each has its own number of officially recognized breeds, such as:
- Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI): As the largest international federation of kennel clubs, with over 90 member countries, FCI recognizes 360 dog breeds.
- American Kennel Club (AKC): The AKC, a prominent organization in the United States registering purebred dogs, currently recognizes 197 breeds.
- The Kennel Club (UK): This primary registry for purebred dogs in the United Kingdom currently recognizes 221 breeds.
- United Kennel Club (UKC): Focusing on working dogs and performance events, the UKC recognizes over 300 dog breeds.
Table of the total breeds recognized by the major kennel clubs and organizations worldwide:
Considering all these various registries, we have at least 400-500 distinct dog breeds recognized globally. However, this figure does not include regional varieties or breeds that have yet to gain official recognition.
How Many Dogs Breeds Are There in the World?” Means to You
While the figure itself can vary from 197 to 500 recognized breeds, it’s important to focus on more than just the breed when choosing a dog.
Veterinarians and experienced dog owners alike advise potential dog owners to consider factors like a dog’s health, temperament, size, coat type, and activity level.
Breeds Recognized By The AKC But Not Other Kennel Organizations Worldwide
Sure. Here is a list of breeds recognized by the AKC but not by other kennel clubs or organizations, combined with the last two results:
- American English Coonhound
- Canadian Eskimo Dog
- Curly-Coated Retriever
- Entlebucher Mountain Dog
- Norwegian Lundehund
- Azawakh
- Barbet
- Boerboel
- Catahoula Leopard Dog
- Chinese Shar-Pei
Other kennel clubs or organizations do not recognize these breeds for a variety of reasons, including:
- The breed is not popular enough.
- The breed is not well-known outside of its country of origin.
- The breed has not been bred for a long enough period.
- The breed has not been standardized regarding its physical appearance and temperament.
If you are considering getting a dog from a breed that other kennel clubs or organizations do not recognize, it is important to do your research to ensure that you are getting a healthy and well-bred dog.
Here are some additional details about each of the breeds not recognized worldwide:
- American English Coonhound: This breed is a descendant of the English Coonhound and was developed in the United States in the early 1900s. American English Coonhounds are known for their tracking and hunting skills.
- Canadian Eskimo Dog: This breed is a native of Canada and was originally used by the Inuit people for hunting and pulling sleds. Canadian Eskimo Dogs are known for their intelligence, loyalty, and hardiness.
- Curly-Coated Retriever: This breed is a rare breed of retriever that originated in England in the 1700s. Curly-Coated Retrievers are known for their curly coat, gentle temperament, and water retrieving skills.
- Entlebucher Mountain Dog: This breed is a Swiss Mountain Dog family member and was originally developed as a herding dog. Entlebucher Mountain Dogs are known for their intelligence, energy, and trainability.
- Norwegian Lundehund: This breed is a small, rare breed of dog that originated in Norway. Norwegian Lundehunds are known for their unique physical features, which include six toes on each foot, double-jointed elbows, and an ability to fold their ears back.
- Azawakh: This breed is a sighthound that originated in Mali, West Africa. Azawakhs are known for their slender build, their speed, and their endurance.
- Barbet: This breed is a water dog that originated in France. Barbets are known for their curly coat, their intelligence, and their trainability.
- Boerboel: This breed is a large, muscular breed of dog that originated in South Africa. Boerboels are known for their loyalty, their protectiveness, and their strength.
- Catahoula Leopard Dog: This breed is a native of Louisiana and was originally used for hunting and herding. Catahoula Leopard Dogs are known for their unique spotted coat, their intelligence, and their versatility.
- Chinese Shar-Pei: This breed is a wrinkled, medium-sized breed of dog that originated in China. Chinese Shar-Pei are known for their unique appearance, their loyalty, and their stubbornness.
Expert Advice: Beyond Breed Recognition
Whether considering pure breeds, mixed breeds, or ‘mutts’, research and understanding should be your guiding lights.
Prior to selecting a dog, it is crucial to research the breed’s characteristics, temperament, exercise needs, grooming requirements, and potential health issues. This ensures that you select a breed compatible with your lifestyle and living situation.
Don’t shy away from mixed breed dogs, often referred to as “mutts” or “crossbreeds.” These canines can be just as loving, intelligent, and loyal as purebred dogs.
Additionally, adopting a mixed breed dog from a shelter or rescue organization can be a rewarding experience that also saves a life.
Some breeds may have a predisposition to certain health issues. Therefore, a consultation with a veterinarian can give you a better understanding of potential health concerns associated with specific breeds.
Early training and socialization are vital for developing a well-behaved, confident, and happy dog regardless of the breed. Consider enrolling your dog in training classes and exposing them to various environments, people, and other animals.
Lastly, if you decide to purchase a purebred dog from a breeder, ensure that the breeder is responsible and ethical.
Reputable breeders prioritize the health and well-being of their dogs and adhere to breed standards.
FAQs on the Topic “How Many Dogs Breeds Are There in the World?”
- How many dog breeds are officially recognized worldwide?
The number can vary greatly depending on the registry organization. As of 2021, the FCI recognized 360 breeds, the AKC recognized 197, The Kennel Club recognized 221, and the UKC recognized over 300. - Why are there different numbers of recognized dog breeds among the various organizations?
The difference in numbers arises due to varying standards and protocols for breed recognition among the organizations. This disparity includes factors such as the dog’s lineage, appearance, and whether the breed has a sufficiently large population. - Are mixed breed dogs considered a separate breed?
No, mixed breed dogs, often referred to as “mutts” or “crossbreeds”, are not considered separate breeds. They are combinations of different recognized breeds. - Do new dog breeds emerge over time?
Yes, new breeds can emerge over time due to selective breeding by humans for specific traits. However, a new breed can take several years to gain official recognition from kennel clubs and organizations. - How can I choose the right breed for me?
Choosing the right breed involves considering various factors such as your lifestyle, living situation, and the breed’s temperament, size, activity level, and potential health issues. Consulting with veterinarians and dog experts, and interacting with different breeds, can help you make an informed decision.
