From Affenpinscher to Yorkshire Terrier | Which dog breed is right for me?

Which dog breed is right for me? There are hundreds of dog breeds in all sizes. Deciding which breed might suit you is therefore not easy. We'll introduce you to the most common dog breeds and their characteristics according to FCI groups, so you can get a better idea.

Why are there so many dog breeds?

There are more than 360 different dog breeds that are recognised by kennel clubs, as well as many unrecognised breeds. Dog breeds exist for many reasons. One reason is that they can help people in different ways, for example as herding dogs, hunting dogs or rescue dogs. Another reason is that many people have a preference for certain characteristics that distinguish a particular breed, such as appearance or temperament. Breeding dogs with these characteristics can also help to enhance and improve certain traits to better meet the needs of the owner.

However, it is important to emphasise that dog breeding can also have negative effects, especially if breeders overemphasise certain traits or disregard the health and welfare of the dogs. Some breeds have genetic diseases or behavioural problems that can be traced back to breeding. It is therefore important to consider the health and welfare of dogs when breeding and to ensure that responsible pet owners only buy or adopt dogs from reputable breeders.

What exactly is a dog breed these days?

Dog breeds are generally developed through the selectively breeding of dogs with certain physical and character traits. Breeders select animals with desirable characteristics such as size, coat or hair type, conformation, health and temperament. By selectively mating these dogs over several generations, certain traits can be reinforced and solidified until eventually a uniform group of dogs with common characteristics is created, known as a "breed".

Dog breeds are usually defined by recognised breeding associations and kennel clubs such as the FCI or AKC. These organisations have set standards that describe the physical characteristics, temperament, size, weight, coat and hair texture and other traits that distinguish a particular breed. To be considered a recognised breed, dogs of that breed must meet certain criteria and be able to prove through pedigrees that they are descended from other dogs of the same breed.

How do you choose the right dog?

Not only should you like the look of your future companion, but the typical characteristics of the breed should also suit your lifestyle. If you choose your dog so that you like the same things, you will save yourself a lot of stress and potential for conflict and can enjoy your time together. For example, a couch potato should not get a herding dog. 

If you already have experience of owning a dog, or are looking for a dog for a specific job, more demanding breeds are also an option. These have strong breed characteristics that can cause problems in everyday life. However, with the right attitude and training, you will have a hardworking and loyal companion at your side. To help you make your decision, we present the 10 FCI groups and their most popular representatives.

And we would like to give you one more piece of advice: Stay away from brachycephalic dogs. Some breeds, such as the Pug and the French Bulldog, have been bred to look childlike. We humans find this particularly cute. Unfortunately, this has sometimes taken on such extreme proportions that the animals suffer as a result: The shorter the nose, the more serious the consequences for the animal. Many pet owners have to have expensive surgery to give their pets some quality of life. In the article Cute flat face? Why pugs are not cute, but sick! you'll find a detailed explanation of why these dogs suffer.

FCI Group 1: Sheepdogs and Cattledogs

Breeds: Australian Kelpie, Australian Shepherd, Belgian Shepherd Dog, Bergamasco Shepherd Dog, Border Collie, Collie, German Shepherd Dog, Komondor, Kuvasz, Mudi, Puli, Pyrenean Hound, Shetland Sheepdog, White Swiss Shepherd Dog, Welsh Corgi

FCI Group 1 includes herding and cattle dogs. These dogs have been bred for centuries to herd livestock and are therefore particularly intelligent, alert and willing to work. Many breeds in this group are also popular today as companion dogs and family dogs.

One of the most important characteristics that most herding dogs have in common is their intelligence. They can understand and carry out complex instructions and are quick learners. Their eagerness and willingness to work are also remarkable. Many herding dogs are bred to work long hours and require adequate physical and mental exercise. These dogs are therefore well suited to sports such as agility or rally obedience. At least 3 walks a day are a must. Group 1 dogs are not for beginners or busy people.

Another common characteristic of many herding dogs is their high sensitivity. They are often very sensitive to their environment and their owner’s moods . This sensitivity can be an advantage as herding dogs often rely on subtle cues from their handlers. However, it can also cause problems if these dogs become overly anxious or nervous.

Most herding and driving dogs are very loyal and affectionate to their families. They can make excellent family dogs as they are often very child-friendly and get on well with other pets. Many herding dogs have strong personalities and therefore need consistent training and socialisation.

The different breeds of herding dogs vary greatly in their physical characteristics. Some breeds, such as the Australian Cattle Dog or the Border Collie, are medium-sized and athletically built, while others, such as the Welsh Corgi Pembroke, are small and stocky. Other breeds, such as the German Shepherd Dog and the Bergamasco Shepherd Dog, are large dogs. However, most herding dogs have thick coats and require regular grooming. Many also have a natural predisposition to certain health problems due to centuries of breeding for their specific tasks.

Overall, herding dogs are a versatile group of dogs capable of performing a wide variety of tasks. Although their special skills are not always required in modern society, their intelligence and eagerness to work remain unique qualities that make them valued companions.

FCI Group 2: Pinscher and Schnauzer, Molossoid and Swiss Mountain and Cattledogs

Breeds: Affenpinscher, Bernese Mountain Dog, St. Bernard, Boxer, Broholmer, Bullmastiff, English Bulldog, Great Dane, German Pinscher, Dobermann, Dogo Argentino, Dogo Canario, Greater Swiss Mountain Dog, Hovawart, Leonberger, Mastiff, Newfoundland, Giant Schnauzer, Rottweiler, Shar Pei, Miniature Schnauzer

FCI Group 2 includes the Pinscher, Schnauzer and Molossoid breeds. This group includes medium to large sized dogs with different characteristics but with some common traits. Most dogs in this group have strong personalities and are territorial. In character, they are affectionate, loyal and outgoing, but submissive. This makes them well suited as working dogs, guarding the house and yard. They are intelligent and easy to train, which makes them suitable for a variety of roles, including protection, police and rescue. However, they can have a dominant personality, so consistent training is important.

Pinschers are generally sturdy, compact dogs with a shoulder height of 25 to 50 cm. They originated in Germany and were bred as guard and herding dogs. One of the best known breeds in this group is the Doberman, which is also used as a guard dog. The Doberman is very intelligent, alert and energetic. It needs consistent training and plenty of exercise to burn off its energy.

Schnauzers were originally bred in Germany and have a distinctive appearance with a long moustache and eyebrows. There are three different types of Schnauzer: Miniature Schnauzers, Medium Schnauzers and Giant Schnauzers. All three are intelligent and alert dogs that can be used as guard and companion dogs. The Miniature Schnauzer is particularly popular as a family dog, while the Giant Schnauzer is used as a police and military dog.

Molossoids are very large dogs, often used as guard dogs. They have a broad, muscular build and can reach up to 90 cm at the shoulder. A well-known member of this group is the St. Bernard, which was originally bred in Switzerland. The St. Bernard is a large, friendly dog used as a rescue dog. It is known for its ability to find and rescue people in the snow. The giant Molossoids such as Great Danes, Dogo Argentino, Dogo Canario and Bullmastiff were bred as hunting or war dogs and should only be kept by people with expertise and knowledge. 

The Swiss Mountain and Cattle Dogs form their own subgroup within FCI Group 2 and comprise four breeds: Bernese Mountain Dog, Entlebuch Mountain Dog, Appenzeller Mountain Dog and Greater Swiss Mountain Dog. They all originate from Switzerland and are some of the oldest working dogs in the country. The dogs are strong and muscular and are known for their endurance and love of work. Originally, they were used as versatile helpers on Swiss farms, where they worked as guard dogs, beaters, draught and pack dogs, and cattle herders. They need consistent training and sufficient exercise to be balanced and happy. A characteristic feature of Swiss Mountain and Cattle Dogs is their distinctive tricolour coat of black, brown and white.

Overall, FCI Group 2 is a versatile group with a wide range of breeds that can be used for different purposes. From the tough guard dog to the friendly family dog, there is a breed in this group to suit every dog lover.

FCI Group 3: Terriers

Breeds: Airedale Terrier, American Staffordshire Terrier, Bedlington Terrier, Bull Terrier, Cairn Terrier, Dandie Dinmont Terrier, Fox Terrier, Irish Terrier, Jack Russell Terrier, Kerry Blue Terrier, Parson Russell Terrier, Scottish Terrier, Skye Terrier, Staffordshire Bull Terrier, West Highland White Terrier, Yorkshire Terrier

All Terriers have in common a strong hunting instinct and a pronounced stubbornness, as they were originally bred for hunting. They are small in size, which they make up for with stamina and courage. Do you know about dog training? Then maybe terriers are for you. They are confident, eager to learn and loyal dogs and need both mental and physical demands to feel comfortable. With a terrier, you are guaranteed to get a bundle of energy in your home.

FCI Group 3 includes terriers, a group of dogs originally bred to hunt small to medium-sized animals such as rats and foxes. Today, terriers are also popular as family dogs because of their temperament and character. With a terrier, you're guaranteed to get a bundle of energy in your home.

Terriers are a diverse group, consisting of many different breeds, from small, cute companions to medium-sized, athletic dogs. Some of the best known terrier breeds are the Jack Russell Terrier, the West Highland White Terrier and the Yorkshire Terrier. Each breed has its own characteristics and traits, but there are also some traits that many terriers have in common.

Most terriers have a lot of energy and are very active. They need regular exercise and mental stimulation to stay happy and healthy. This makes them ideal companions for people who lead active lives or enjoy being outdoors. However, Terriers are also known to be very headstrong and have a strong hunting instinct. This can lead to them pulling on the lead when out walking or trying to chase other animals.

Many terriers have a wiry, dense coat that protects them from the elements and predators. However, this coat needs regular grooming as it is prone to matting and tangling.

Terriers are also known for their strong character and independent personalities. They are often very bold and confident, which can lead to dominant behaviour towards other dogs. Early socialisation and training is therefore important to ensure they get on well with other dogs and people.

In conclusion, Terriers are lively and intelligent dogs that form close bonds with their owners. However, they need consistent training and sufficient physical and mental exercise to reach their full potential as loyal and loving family dogs.

FCI Group 4: Dachshunds

Breeds: Rabbit Dachshund, Standard Dachshund, Miniature Dachshund

FCI Group 4 includes the Dachshund, also known as Dackel or Teckel. This breed has been known in Europe for centuries and is often referred to as a "sausage dog", "wiener dog" or "hot dog", especially in English-speaking countries, due to their unique shape and size. Dachshunds have long been used as hunting dogs, particularly for badgers (hence the name "badger dog"), but also for other small animals such as rabbits and foxes.

Dachshunds come in three different sizes: standard, miniature and rabbit. The standard size is the largest and weighs between 9 and 12 kg. The miniature size weighs between 4 and 5 kg and the rabbit size weighs between 3.5 and 4 kg. However, all sizes have a similar appearance with a long, slender body, short legs and a broad chest.

Teckels have very independent personalities and can be difficult to train due to their strong hunting instincts. However, they are also very affectionate and loyal to their owners and get on well with children. Their small size makes them perfect pets, although they do need plenty of exercise to stay healthy.

The Dachshund's coat is dense and can come in a variety of colours and patterns, including black, brown, red, cream and blue. There are three different coat lengths for each size of Teckels: the Smooth-haired Dachshund, the Long-haired Dachshund and the Wire-haired Dachshund. The Smooth-haired Dachshund has a smooth, short coat, while the Long-haired Dachshund has a longer, silky coat. The Wire-haired Dachshund has a dense, bristly coat that protects it from harsh conditions.

Because of its conformation, the Dachshund is prone to back problems, especially in the lumbar region. Because of its long spine and short legs, the Dachshund is more prone to herniated discs and other back problems than other breeds. It is important for Dachshund owners to ensure that the dog does not engage in activities that put strain on the back. This includes jumping and climbing stairs.

Overall, Teckels are one of the most popular breeds in the world because of their unique appearance and personality. Although they can be a little stubborn at times, they are also very affectionate and loyal companions that enrich the lives of their owners.

FCI Group 5: Spitz and primitive types

Breeds: Akita, Alaskan Malamute, Basenji, Chow Chow, German Spitz, Eurasier, Finnish Spitz, Hokkaido, Icelandic Hound, Karelian Bear Dog, Laika, Mexican Naked Dog, Norrbottenspitz, Norwegian Buhund, Norwegian Elkhound, Norwegian Lundehund, Podenco, Samoyed, Shiba, Siberian Husky, Volpino Italiano

Group 5 of the FCI includes breeds that differ greatly in behaviour and character. What they all have in common, however, is that their appearance has changed very little over the centuries. They have been known for a long time in different parts of the world and are used for different purposes such as hunting, guarding and companionship. Group 5 is divided into six sections, including Nordic Sledge Dogs, Nordic Hunting Dogs, European Spitz, Asian Spitz and Primitive type.

The Nordic Sled Dogs include the Siberian Husky. These dogs are known for their working ability and endurance. Their ancestors came from Siberia. Siberian Huskies can travel long distances in cold temperatures. They have strong personalities and need consistent training. Another representative is the Samoyed. The breed originated from dogs used by the Samoyedic peoples of Siberia as guards and sled dogs. They are characterised by their thick, white coat and their friendly nature. Samoyeds are very social and make good family dogs.

An example of the Asian Spitz and related breeds is the Akita Inu. These dogs originated in Japan and were used as hunting dogs. They are robust and alert and have a strong bond with their owners. Akita Inus are very intelligent but also independent, so they need consistent training. Other well-known Asian Spitz breeds include the Chow Chow, Shiba and Eurasian.

The Primitive type includes breeds such as the Basenji. These dogs originated in Africa and were used as hunting dogs. They have an independent character and can be very stubborn. Basenjis are known for their high energy and loud, yodelling bark. Other primitive dogs include the Mexican and Peruvian Naked Dog and the Podenco.

In summary, the dogs in FCI Group 5 have a variety of different characteristics and abilities. Despite their different origins and roles, these dogs often form a close bond with their owners and make excellent companions for active people who enjoy spending time outdoors.

FCI Group 6: Scent hounds and related breeds

Breeds: Alpine Dachsbracke, Basset Hound, Bavarian Mountain Scent Hound, Beagle, Beagle Harrier, Billy, Bloodhound, Austrian Black and Tan Hound, Dalmatian, German Hound, Griffon, Halden Bracke, Hanoverian Welding Dog, Otterhound, Rhodesian Ridgeback, Swiss Hound, Tyrolean Bracke

FCI Group 6 includes scent hounds, leash (scent) hounds and related breeds. These dogs were bred to hunt game and as a result often have a good nose and strong hunting instincts. Some breeds in this group are now kept as companion dogs as they are generally friendly, active and alert.

Scent hounds have a good sense of smell and were originally bred to hunt small game such as hares and rabbits or large game such as wild boar and deer. They specialise in finding wounded game by following the trail of blood. They are generally friendly and easy going dogs who enjoy being outdoors and need plenty of exercise. They have a calm and even temperament and usually make good family dogs if given enough exercise.

Some breeds in this group also have special characteristics that set them apart from other dogs. The Rhodesian Ridgeback, for example, has a characteristic swirl of hair along its spine that gives it a distinctive appearance. This is taken by other dogs as a sign of aggression. Another special breed is the Dalmatian. It has a characteristic white coat with black patches, and its excellent running and stamina make it an excellent companion for sporting activities.

In general, FCI Group 6 breeds are docile, friendly and active. They need plenty of exercise and meaningful occupation and are therefore only suitable for active people. Due to their hunting instincts, they need to be well trained and controlled when walking off the leash. In fact, welding dogs are given exclusively to hunters.

FCI Group 7: Pointing Dogs

Breeds: Bohemian Wire-Haired Pointing Griffon, Bracco Italiano, German Wirehair, German Short-Haired Pointing Dog, German Wire-Haired Pointing Dog, English Pointer, English Setter, French Pointing Dog, Gordon Setter, Irish Red Setter, Small Munsterlander, Magyar Vizsla, Perdiguero, Picardy Spaniel, Spinone Italiano, Weimaraner

FCI Group 7 includes pointing dogs, also known as pointers. They are known for their ability to track and indicate game birds and other wild game. They do this in complete silence so as not to frighten the game. They are very energetic, athletic and have a strong build that allows them to run and hunt for hours on end. Pointers are very intelligent and easy to train, making them excellent companions and hunting partners. Many Pointers also have a strong bond with their owners and are loyal and affectionate family dogs. FCI Group 7 is divided into two sections: Continental Pointing Dogs and British and Irish Pointers and Setters.

Continental Pointing Dogs include breeds such as the German Short-Haired Pointing Dog, the Weimaraner and the Spinone Italiano. These dogs are generally medium to large in size and have short to medium length coats. They are athletic, powerful and have a strong build which enables them to run long distances and hunt game. Their noses are excellent, allowing them to pick up scents in difficult conditions.

The British and Irish Pointers and Setters, such as the English Pointer, Irish Setter and Gordon Setter, are also medium to large sized dogs, but unlike the Continental Pointers, they tend to have longer coats and a more elegant appearance. They are renowned not only for their ability to find game, but also for their elegance and beauty. These dogs are very intelligent and have an excellent sense of smell.

FCI-Gruppe 8: Retrievers, Flushing Dogs, Water Dogs

Breeds: American Cocker Spaniel, Chesapeake Bay Retriever, German Wachtelhund, English Cocker Spaniel, English Springer Spaniel, Field Spaniel, Flat Coated Retriever, Frisian Water Dog, Golden Retriever, Irish Water Spaniel, Labrador Retriever, Nederlandse Kooikerhondje, Nova Scotia Retriever, Portuguese Water Dog, Spanish Water Dog, Sussex Spaniel, Water Dog Der Romagna, Welsh Springer Spaniel

FCI Group 8 includes a diverse group of dogs that can be divided into three categories based on their abilities and characteristics: Retrievers, Flushing Dogs and Water Dogs. These dogs were originally bred to help people hunt. Some common characteristics are their energy and need for exercise. The dogs are often very active and need regular walks and physical activity to stay happy and healthy. Many breeds in this group are also known for their friendly and affectionate nature, making them excellent family dogs. Versatile, intelligent and loyal, they are well suited to active people who spend a lot of time with their dogs.

Retrievers are known for their ability to retrieve objects and bring them to their owners. Originally bred to hunt waterfowl, they are often good swimmers. As hunting assistants, they are used to retrieve shot and wounded small game such as ducks or geese, or to bring them out of the water. The most popular are the Golden Retriever and the Labrador Retriever. These breeds are known for their loyalty and ability to learn quickly. They are often very family friendly and enjoy spending time with their owners.

Flushing Dogs have been bred to seek out and alert small game from dense cover such as bushes and reeds. They do this by searching the area extensively and independently. Flushing Dogs do the same work as Pointers, but when they are successful they bark rather than point. Various Spaniels belong to the group of Flushing Dogs. They are medium-sized dogs with long, silky ears and thick coats. Originally bred to hunt waterfowl, they are known for their good sense of smell and swimming ability. There are several different types, including the Cocker Spaniel and the English Springer Spaniel.

Water Dogs are dogs bred to work in water. They often have a water-repellent coat and are good swimmers. These dogs were originally used to hunt waterfowl, but are now kept as family pets. Breeds in this category include various Water Dogs and Water Spaniels. They are often very intelligent and quick to learn, which makes them good companion dogs.

FCI Group 9: Companion and Toy Dogs

Breeds: Bichon Frisé, Bolognese, Boston Terrier, Brussels Griffon, Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, Chihuahua, Chinese Crested Dog, French Bulldog, Havanese, Kromfohrländer, Lhasa Apso, Little Lion Dog, Maltese, Pug, Poodle, Papillon, Pekingese, Russian Toy, Shih Tzu, Tibetan Terrier

FCI Group 9 includes a variety of breeds with different appearances. They have been bred to bring joy to their owners and to be loyal companions. This group is relatively young compared to the old, established hunting dog breeds and reflects the fact that people today increasingly live in cities with limited living space. As a result, many of these breeds are small to medium in size. They have a friendly and affectionate nature, are very playful and especially people oriented. This makes them good family dogs.

Some FCI Group 9 breeds are known for their hypoallergenic qualities. These include dogs with curly coats such as the Bichon Frisé and the Poodle. These dogs shed less than other breeds and are often a good choice for allergy sufferers. In a dog allergy, the immune system reacts to protein particles that are excreted through saliva, urine and skin glands and stick to fur and dander.

Unfortunately, social and companion dogs have some drawbacks. Sadly, many breeds in FCI Group 9 have been bred purely for appearance, so that they look cute to us humans and fit into the child scheme, for example. This has led to grotesque changes in the dogs' physique and the result is animals that suffer from their appearance. For example, brachycephalic breeds such as the Pug and French Bulldog suffer from problems such as respiratory distress, overheating and spinal damage. Toy and teacup breeds are also considered so called torture breeds. These miniature dogs are a variety of several breeds and suffer from lifelong health problems due to their size and associated deformities. There is also social stress as they cannot compete with and are often dominated by normal sized dogs.

In addition, many of these breeds are literally kept as lap dogs and do not get enough exercise. As a result, many Companion and Toy Dogs are overweight because they take in more energy with their food than they can burn off. The consequences are cardiovascular disease, diabetes mellitus, joint damage and a shortened life expectancy.

FCI Group 10: Sighthounds

Breeds: Afghan Hound, Borzoi, Galgo, Greyhound, Irish Wolfhound, Italian Sighthound, Polish Greyhound, Saluki, Sloughi, Hungarian Greyhound, Whippet

FCI Group 10 includes Sighthounds, also known as Greyhounds. Nobody can keep up with them. Greyhounds use their speed to outrun their prey. And because they are faster than humans and animals, they also need a large dose of stubbornness and independence. This breed is prized for its elegance, speed and endurance and is often used for racing and hunting.

Sighthounds have long, slender, muscular bodies with deep chests. Their build gives them a graceful appearance and is optimised for speed. Their legs are also long and slender, giving them powerful acceleration and high speed. Greyhounds have little body fat and no undercoat, so they are particularly sensitive to cold and will shiver in the cold to warm their bodies.

Another common characteristic of all Greyhounds is their independence and strong hunting instinct. As these dogs were originally bred for hunting, they have a strong urge to exercise and need regular opportunities to run and play. Without sufficient exercise, they can develop destructive behaviours such as chewing and digging. Sighthounds also have a strong protective instinct, although their independent nature means they may not be as affectionate as other dogs. They can also be very sensitive and need gentle but consistent training.

Sighthounds usually have a short, smooth coat, but there are exceptions. The Saluki, or Persian Greyhound, is one of the oldest greyhound breeds. The legs, tail and ears are feathered in an otherwise short body coat. Afghans also have feathered hair on their torso, giving them a long, silky coat and an exotic appearance.

Greyhounds come in all sizes. The largest is the Irish Wolfhound and the smallest is the Italian Greyhound. In recent years, Whippets have become increasingly popular as they tend to be rather smaller and do not require as much space.

Conclusion

Now you have an idea of the different groups of dog breeds and their main representatives. Detailed information about the most popular dog breeds can be found in the confidu dog breed encyclopaedia. Here you can also find out more about pet care and health.

The confidu magazine is written by our veterinarians according to current scientific standards. The articles do not replace a veterinary diagnosis, but are intended to provide you with initial information on many topics related to your animal. If you have specific questions about your pet, our vets will be happy to advise you via the confidu app.