Which dog breed suits me?

In this blog article, we will discuss the different breed groups that have been created to categorise the various dog breeds. These breed groups were established by the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI), an international organisation that serves as an umbrella body for many kennel clubs.

The breed group is based on the purpose for which the breed was originally developed. Within each group, there are often dog breeds of various sizes. Based on their characteristics, you can usually get a good idea of whether dogs within a particular group match your lifestyle, living environment, and what you expect from a dog.

To help you choose the right dog breed, we’ve created several top 10 lists of popular breeds based on a dog’s size. For example, there is a top 10 of small dog breeds weighing up to 10 kg. We also have a top 10 of medium-sized dog breeds between 10 and 25 kg, and a top 10 of large dog breeds that weigh more than 25 kg when fully grown.

What dog breed groups are there?

There are currently 10 dog breed groups, based on the purpose for which the dogs were originally bred. Below is an overview.

FCI Group 1: Sheepdogs and Cattle Dogs

Group 1 includes dogs that were bred to herd flocks, drive livestock, or guard herds. Well-known breeds in this group include the Border Collie, Dutch Shepherd, and Kuvasz.

These dogs are often active and need mental stimulation. It is therefore important that they have a consistent and confident owner who can dedicate enough time to proper socialisation.

FCI Group 2: Pinschers, Schnauzers, Molossers and Swiss Mountain Dogs

Group 2 is a diverse group consisting of various types of dogs.

The Pinschers and Schnauzers vary in size, ranging from miniature and toy versions to medium-sized dogs, and were originally bred for pest control and guarding the home. These dogs are known for being active, independent with a strong hunting instinct, protective of their family, and prone to barking frequently.

The Molossers are large mastiff-type dogs that were historically used in the military as guards, pack carriers, and for hunting. Sometimes, they were also used in fights against other animals. These dogs are calm, confident, and independent, with a powerful bite force.

The Swiss Mountain Dogs were bred to drive cattle, pull carts, and guard the home. They are therefore often independent and watchful. The smaller mountain dog breeds, such as the Appenzeller and Entlebucher Mountain Dogs, are active and enjoy working together. The larger breeds, like the Bernese Mountain Dog, tend to be calmer, more thoughtful, and independent.

FCI Group 3: Terriers

Terriers were originally bred to hunt vermin and harmful game, with the aim of killing them as well. Within this group, you’ll find:

• Long-legged terriers, such as the Airedale Terrier. These hunt above ground.
• Short-legged terriers, such as the Jack Russell Terrier. This group is bred to follow prey into its burrow.
• Bull-type terriers, such as the Bull Terrier, which were originally used for fighting.
• Toy-type terriers, such as the Yorkshire Terrier, are companion dogs.

This breed is active, brave, and tenacious. They can be very stubborn, alert, and tend to bark a lot. They also love to dig! The bull-type terriers, such as the Bull Terrier and the Staffordshire Bull Terrier, may become less tolerant of other dogs as they mature. It is therefore important to pay close attention to socialisation and training. These dogs are often very affectionate towards people.

FCI Group 4: Dachshunds

Dachshunds were originally bred to hunt independently underground, which also explains their character: brave, intelligent, and persistent. As a result, they are often described as stubborn. Within the Dachshund group, a distinction is made between three coat types and three sizes. The coat can be short-haired, long-haired, or wire-haired. In terms of size, there are three categories: Kaninchen, Miniature, and Standard Dachshunds. Due to their strong hunting instinct, Dachshunds require firm and consistent training. Socialising them with children and other dogs is very important, as fear can sometimes trigger aggressive behaviour.

FCI Group 5: Spitz and primitive types

The Spitz group includes sled dogs, Scandinavian hunting and herding dogs, as well as companion Spitz breeds. These dogs are used for pulling, guarding, and hunting.

Sled dogs, such as the Husky and the Alaskan Malamute, fall under the category of polar dogs. These breeds do not tolerate being alone very well, as they are true pack animals—often more attached to other dogs than to people. They tend to have a dominant nature and are strong hunters, which means they can’t always be let off-lead.

The Scandinavian herding dogs are active and devoted to their families. The hunting dogs in this group tend to be more independent, with great endurance. An example of a herding dog is the Finnish Lapphund, while the Norwegian Elkhound is an example of a hunting dog.

The Spitz breeds can be divided into Asian-type Spitz dogs, such as the Chow Chow, and European-type Spitz dogs, such as the Pomeranian. The Asian types tend to be more independent and rather aloof. Due to their strong-willed nature, they can be more difficult to train. European Spitz breeds are generally more affectionate.

The final category within this breed group is the primitive types. These are dogs that have changed very little over time and have ancient origins, such as the Pharaoh Hound, but also the Basenji and the Podenco. They are often independent dogs and true hunters.

Dogs in Group 5 require firm and consistent training, as well as plenty of exercise.

FCI Group 6: Scent hounds and tracking dogs

Dogs from Group 6 were bred to track and drive game. Beagles are true scent hounds; they drive game forward. Tracking dogs, such as the Bloodhound, follow a blood trail.

Two other breeds within this group are the Rhodesian Ridgeback and the Dalmatian, although their original roles do not entirely match what the group name might suggest. The Rhodesian Ridgeback was originally bred to protect game hunted by hunters from predators such as lions. The Dalmatian was used in the 19th century as a carriage dog, guarding carriages and horses against other dogs and potential threats.

Dogs in this group have a strong hunting instinct. They are often pack animals that don’t do well on their own. They enjoy living with other dogs, are independent, and tend to follow their nose when outdoors—so recall training is especially important. They are affectionate with their family. The Dalmatian and Rhodesian Ridgeback are strong, active dogs with a will of their own, which can make training more challenging. They may sometimes be intolerant of other dogs and overly boisterous with people, making proper socialisation essential.

FCI Group 7: Pointing dogs

Pointing dogs are also hunting dogs, used to locate and indicate game by freezing in a specific stance. On command from the hunter, the game is flushed so the hunter can shoot and the dog can retrieve it. Examples within this group include the Irish Setter and the German Shorthaired Pointer.

These are sensitive dogs that form strong bonds with their families. They enjoy working for their owner and require plenty of exercise. They learn quickly, but like scent hounds and tracking dogs, they tend to follow their nose—so reliable recall must be properly trained.

FCI Group 8: Retrievers, Spaniels and Water Dogs

Dogs in Group 8 retrieve game after it has been shot. The Spaniels also flush game for the hunter. Water dogs are specifically bred to retrieve waterfowl.

Retrievers, such as the Labrador and Golden Retriever, enjoy working together with their owner and are excellent at retrieving.

Spaniels tend to be more independent and headstrong, and they can have a strong hunting instinct.

Water dogs are strong swimmers. They enjoy working with their owner but also tend to be more watchful and independent.

Dogs in this group are affectionate and social, with good stamina. They love to swim, so it is advisable to teach them to enter the water only on command.

FCI Group 9: Companion dogs

Dogs in this group originally come from other breed groups but have been selectively bred to serve as companion dogs. They are strongly attached to their owner and generally dislike being left alone, so it’s important to train puppies to feel comfortable staying home alone. These dogs are often playful and affectionate, but also sensitive. They can be watchful and prone to barking. Examples within this group include the Poodle and the Chihuahua.

FCI Group 10: Sighthounds

The final dog breed group consists of the sighthounds. Think, for example, of the Afghan Hound and the Greyhound. These dogs were bred to hunt by sight rather than scent. They are meant to spot, chase, and kill game. Indoors, they are often calm and affectionate, but outdoors they are active and possess a strong hunting instinct. It is often difficult to let these dogs run off-lead safely.

How do I choose the right dog breed?

So, by looking at the breed groups, you can get a general idea of a dog’s character traits and needs.

If this will be your first dog, it may be wise to start with a breed that is easier to train. If you have more experience or plan to do sports or hunting with your dog, you can also choose a breed based on those interests.

Of course, the breed is not the only factor to consider when choosing a dog. You should also think about whether you want to get a puppy or, for example, adopt a dog from a shelter or rescue centre. It’s important to gather proper information and not rush into a decision. After all, a dog is meant to enrich your life for many years—often 10 or more.
If you have any questions about this, there are several organisations that can help and provide information, such as the Animal Protection Society, the Dutch National Information Centre for Companion Animals (LICG), and the Dutch Kennel Club (Raad van Beheer).
You can also always send an email to [email protected]. We’ll be happy to assist you.

Source of breed information: LICG and Dutch Kennel Club (Raad van Beheer)