If you’re considering adopting a dog, you’ll find an abundance of choices available. From tiny poodles to large Dobermans, dogs come in a variety of shapes and sizes.

There are numerous dog breeds, each offering distinct personalities and traits. But just how many breeds are recognized?

Various kennel clubs worldwide oversee the registration of dog breeds. Here’s a summary of the situation.

How many dog breeds are recognized?

In the United States, the American Kennel Club (AKC) currently recognizes 201 dog breeds. This count excludes mixed-breed dogs and hybrid breeds, such as the Goldendoodle (a cross between a golden retriever and a poodle) or the Cockapoo (a cross of a cocker spaniel and a poodle).

The AKC only registers “purebred dogs.” A breed may not be acknowledged if it has insufficient numbers in the U.S. or if its owners choose not to register it.

The first breed recognized by the AKC was the Pointer in 1878, while the latest is the Lancashire Heeler, added on January 3, 2024.

Worldwide, an estimated 400 breeds are acknowledged by various international registries, as stated by the American Kennel Club.

Overview of dog breed groups

The American Kennel Club organizes dog breeds into seven distinct groups:

• Sporting group
• Hound group
• Working group
• Terrier group
• Toy group
• Non-sporting group
• Herding group

The sporting group includes breeds originally developed to assist hunters in finding and retrieving birds. Sporting dogs are typically very energetic. Some notable breeds in this category are the English Cocker Spaniel, Golden Retriever, and Labrador Retriever.

The hound group features breeds that were bred for hunting, equipped with excellent stamina and scent capabilities. Notable breeds include the Beagle, Bloodhound, and Greyhound.

The working group features dogs bred to assist humans with various tasks, including protection and sled pulling. These breeds are generally strong and intelligent. Examples include the Siberian Husky, Boxer, and Bernese Mountain Dog.

Breeds in the terrier group were originally intended to catch rodents and serve as guard dogs. These dogs are often lively and energetic. Key examples are the West Highland White Terrier, Scottish Terrier, and Bull Terrier.

Toy breeds are characterized by their small size but are often full of character. These dogs are typically friendly and affectionate. Examples include the Yorkshire Terrier, Shih Tzu, and Maltese.

The non-sporting group is diverse, including breeds of various sizes, coat types, and temperaments. Breeds like the Shiba Inu, Standard Poodle, and Boston Terrier belong here.

Lastly, the herding group includes breeds known for their ability to gather and guard livestock. Originally part of the working group, these breeds separated in 1983. Notable breeds include the Australian Cattle Dog, Border Collie, and Pembroke Welsh Corgi.