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Bred for Purpose: History Behind
the Show Dog, and What Makes
Your Breed Unique Today
In Europe, hunters needed dogs that could retrieve birds and have a thick enough coat to be comfortable in an outdoor environment. Thus, the English Setter, for example, was born. The Doberman Pincher came about thanks to an accountant in Germany who needed a dog for protection.
And sometimes, breeds were created to serve a different need: strictly companionship. Pekingese were bred as lap dogs that, for a time, could only be owned by Chinese royalty.
Eventually, a formal system was established to preserve the breeds for future generations. Today, a purebred dog that has had its family tree verified by the American Kennel Club (AKC) can become an AKC registered dog.
New breeds are still being recognized in the United States
Globally, there are more than 400 breeds in existence today. As interest in new breeds grows in the United States,
(BPT) - It's easy enough for any dog lover to fall for the silky coat of the Golden Retriever, a Siberian Husky's striking blue eyes or a Dalmatian's spots. In fact, most dog owners say it was the look of a breed that drew them to bring home that puppy in the first place
"As beautiful as these dogs are, what's often overlooked is essential information about their breed that goes much farther than 'fur deep'," says Jason Taylor, Royal Canin National Pro Sales Director and AKC National Championship Assistant Show Chairman.
"If you take time to unlock the story of your dog, you'll understand how your dog's breed determines its energy levels, behaviors and even dietary needs," Taylor says. "Armed with this information, you can become a much better owner to your four-legged companion."
Why do breeds exist?
Originally, dogs were bred for a specific purpose or function. The most basic example is that farm dogs were bred based on qualities farmers liked and needed from a dog, such as strong physical ability and great work ethic.
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