What kind of dog should you get?
That’s a tough question, right? With over 340 dog breeds out there, it can feel impossible to choose. Each one has its own look, personality, and energy level.
Take Jack Russell Terriers, for example – they’re small, playful, and super independent. On the other hand, German Shepherds are bigger, more affectionate, and easier to train.
So how do you find the perfect match?
How dog breed groups can help you choose your perfect pup
With so many breeds out there, choosing the right dog might feel like searching for a needle in a haystack. But here’s the good news: you don’t need to know every single breed to make a good choice.
The American Kennel Club (AKC) has grouped dogs into 7 categories based on their original jobs, behaviors, and personalities. These groups make it much easier to understand what a dog might be like – before you fall in love at first tail wag.
Let’s take a closer look at each group to help you find your perfect match.
| Dog group | Main traits | Good fit for |
|---|---|---|
| Herding | Smart, active, loyal | Active owners who enjoy training and play |
| Hound | Curious, independent, loves to chase scents | People who enjoy walks and exploration |
| Non-sporting | Unique, playful, varied personalities | Companionship over function |
| Sporting | Energetic, friendly, eager to please | Outdoor lovers and active families |
| Terrier | Feisty, fearless, full of personality | Experienced dog owners who love a challenge |
| Toy | Small, affectionate, confident | Apartment living and lapdog lovers |
| Working | Strong, loyal, task-driven | Owners with space and time for training |
#1: Herding dogs – clever, loyal, and always on the move
If you’re into active dogs with sharp minds and strong instincts, herding breeds might be your perfect match.
Originally bred to move sheep, cattle, or other animals, these dogs are still full of that “let’s get to work” attitude. You’ll find them alert, smart, confident, and often a little bossy (in the cutest way). They love having a job to do, even if it’s just herding you around the house!
Some popular herding breeds include Collies, Cattle Dogs, Sheepdogs, Corgis, German Shepherds, Belgian Malinois, and Belgian Tervuren. Most of them are highly trainable and form strong bonds with their humans.
However, keep in mind that they’re not really couch potatoes. These pups need daily mental and physical activity. If they get bored, you’ll probably hear about it… literally. Herding dogs tend to bark a lot when they have too much energy. Some may even try to “herd” you or your kids by gently nipping at your heels. It’s not aggression; it’s just their instincts kicking in.
So, if you’ve got an active lifestyle and want a loyal, brainy companion who loves being part of the action, this group is a great place to start.
#2: Hound dogs – noses to the ground, eyes on the prize
Hound dogs are the original trackers. For centuries, they’ve helped humans hunt – either by following scents or spotting movement from far away. Even if they no longer chase game, many hounds still carry that instinct in their DNA. So don’t be surprised if they stop mid-walk to sniff every single tree (and then some).
There are two main types: scent hounds and sighthounds.
Scent hounds
These pups follow their nose wherever it leads – and sometimes that’s away from you. Their sense of smell is incredibly strong, which makes them great at tracking, but also a bit stubborn during walks. If they catch a scent, they’ll want to follow it.
Scent hounds are usually medium-sized, curious, and lovable. They include:
- Beagles
- Basset Hounds
- Bloodhounds
- Foxhounds
- Otterhounds
Sighthounds
Sighthounds, on the other hand, rely on their vision and speed. Their bodies are slim and built for running – think of them as the sprinters of the dog world. They spot movement quickly and can chase after it in a flash.
They’re graceful, quiet, and more independent than other breeds. Some might even act like cats – gentle, a little aloof, and always elegant.
Popular sighthounds include:
- Greyhounds
- Whippets
- Salukis
- Afghans
- Italian Greyhounds
- Pharaoh Hounds
- Ibizan Hounds
- Rhodesian Ridgebacks (fun fact: this breed fits into both scent and sight categories!)
Whether you go for a sniffing expert or a speedy runner, hounds make sweet, loyal companions. Just be ready for some independent thinking and possibly a bit of selective hearing when they’re on a mission!
#3: Non-sporting dogs – a mix of charm, quirks, and companionship
This group is a bit of a wild card. Non-sporting dogs don’t have a single job like herding or hunting. Instead, they come from all kinds of backgrounds. Some were bred to work, others just to keep people company. Today, most of them are simply lovable pets with big personalities.
That means you’ll find all shapes, sizes, and temperaments here – from sturdy Bulldogs to fluffy Poodles and everything in between.
These dogs usually aren’t doing the work they were originally bred for. Take the Poodle, for example. It used to help hunters retrieve game from the water. Today? It’s more into playing dress-up or lounging on the couch. Bulldogs once had a much rougher job involving bulls (yep, really), but now they mostly snore their way through the day.
So what do they all have in common? They’re curious, playful, loyal, and happy to hang out by your side. Some are calm and independent. Others are more active and eager to please. But all of them make great companions if you’re looking for a buddy over a working partner.
Here are a few breeds from this fun and varied group:
- Poodle
- Bulldog
- Dalmatian
- Chow Chow
- Boston Terrier
- Tibetan Terrier
- Shar-Pei
- Lhasa Apso
- American Eskimo Dog
- Keeshond
- Shiba Inu
If you want a dog with personality, style, and maybe a bit of sass, the non-sporting group is full of unique characters. There’s no “one type” here – just plenty of charm.
#4: Sporting dogs – active, friendly, and always ready to play
If you love long walks, outdoor adventures, or just tossing a ball around in the park, sporting dogs could be your perfect match. These dogs were originally bred to help hunters find, flush, or retrieve game. Today, they still have that go-getter spirit – just without the hunting part (unless you count squirrels).
Sporting dogs are smart, affectionate, easy to train, and always eager to please. They’re also full of energy, so they do best in homes where they can move, run, and play every single day. Without enough activity, they might get bored – and when that happens, your shoes or couch could suffer the consequences.
These dogs love staying active – whether it’s playing fetch, going on long walks, or joining you on a trail. If you’re planning outdoor adventures together, here are some simple hiking tips for exploring nature with your dog to help you get started.
These dogs also shine in therapy work, assistance roles, and search-and-rescue teams. They’re dependable, gentle, and often very in tune with people’s emotions.
You’ll usually see sporting dogs grouped into three main types:
Retrievers
These lovable dogs are built for fetching things – whether it’s a duck, a tennis ball, or your slipper. They’re big, cheerful, and love to play. Retrievers are great for families and are often seen working as guide dogs or emotional support companions.
Popular breeds:
- Labrador Retriever
- Golden Retriever
- Flat-Coated Retriever
- Chesapeake Bay Retriever
- Curly-Coated Retriever
Spaniels
Spaniels were originally bred to scare birds out of hiding so hunters could shoot them. Today, they’re more about snuggles and fetch than flushing birds, but they’ve kept their happy, playful energy.
Most spaniels are friendly and love people, but some breeds may have stronger moods. If you’re thinking of getting one, it’s a good idea to learn about their temperament.
Popular breeds:
- Cocker Spaniel
- English Cocker Spaniel
- American Water Spaniel
- English Springer Spaniel
- Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
- Clumber Spaniel
- Welsh Springer Spaniel
Pointers and Setters
These graceful dogs were trained to find birds and “point” or “set” to show hunters where to aim. They’re still sharp, alert, and super active. Pointers are usually more direct and driven, while setters tend to be a bit more sensitive.
Popular breeds:
- Vizsla
- Weimaraner
- German Shorthaired Pointer
- English Pointer
- Irish Setter
- English Setter
- Gordon Setter
So, if you’re looking for a cheerful, sporty companion who’ll never say no to an adventure, this group might just have your next best friend.
#5: Terrier dogs – bold, busy, and packed with personality
Let’s be honest – terriers are tiny tornadoes. They’re clever, fearless, and absolutely full of energy. If you’ve ever met one, you know they don’t back down from a challenge… even if it’s ten times their size.
These dogs were originally bred to hunt and chase small prey like foxes, rats, and weasels. That’s where the name comes from – terra means “earth” in Latin. They’d dig into burrows to find their target. Today, they’re more likely to chase toys or squirrels, but that instinct? Still very much alive.
I have a Jack Russell Terrier myself, so I can tell you – they are not for the faint of heart. She’s 10 years old, still acts like a puppy, and runs the house like a tiny boss. She’s playful, stubborn, and too smart for her own good. And that pretty much sums up most terriers!
These dogs are known for being:
- Energetic
- Determined
- Independent
- Super smart
- A little bit scrappy (in a fun way)
They’re not the easiest to train because they love doing things their way. But if you’re patient and consistent, you’ll get a loyal companion who keeps you on your toes – and keeps life interesting.
Some popular terrier breeds include:
- Jack Russell Terrier
- Scottish Terrier
- Staffordshire Bull Terrier
- Airedale Terrier
- Boston Terrier
- Bull Terrier
- Bedlington Terrier
So, if you’re looking for a small(ish) dog with a huge personality – and you don’t mind a bit of barking, digging, or mischief – a terrier might be just right for you.
#6: Toy dogs – tiny in size, big in heart (and sass!)
Don’t let their size fool you – dogs in the toy group may be small, but they come with full-sized personalities. These pint-sized pups were bred mainly to be companions, and they take their role seriously. In fact, some of them seem convinced they’re royalty… and maybe they are?
Toy dogs are usually cuddly, smart, confident, and full of charm. They’re great for smaller homes or apartments since they don’t need a lot of space. But here’s the thing: just because they’re small doesn’t mean they’re low-maintenance. Many toy breeds are energetic, vocal, and very attached to their people.
Some even have a bit of a bossy streak – if you don’t set the rules, they’ll happily make their own. (Tiny dog, big CEO energy.)
Popular toy breeds include:
- Chihuahua
- Maltese
- Shih Tzu
- Pug
- Toy Poodle
- Pekingese
- Havanese
- Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
- Yorkshire Terrier
- Silky Terrier
- Italian Greyhound
- Pomeranian
These dogs are often perfect for people who want a loyal shadow – someone who’ll follow them from room to room, nap in their lap, and alert them to any suspicious leaf movement outside the window.
So, if you’re looking for a portable best friend who’ll fill your days with affection (and maybe a little drama), a toy dog could be your perfect match.
#7: Working dogs – strong, smart, and ready to protect
Working dogs are the powerhouses of the dog world. They were bred to do serious jobs – like guarding property, pulling sleds, rescuing people, or helping around farms. These dogs are strong, dependable, and often incredibly smart. If they were humans, they’d probably be firefighters, security guards, or mountain guides.
Most working dogs are medium to large in size and need space to move and a purpose to feel fulfilled. They’re loyal, confident, and surprisingly affectionate once they bond with you. But they’re not usually couch potatoes – they thrive on routine, responsibility, and activity.
This group can be split into three types, each with its own unique role:
Northern breeds
Think sled dogs and cold-weather companions. These dogs are built for endurance and strength, often with thick fur and a love for snow. Many are independent and curious, and if your yard isn’t securely fenced, they will explore the neighborhood.
Popular breeds:
- Siberian Husky
- Alaskan Malamute
- American Eskimo Dog
- Akita
- Samoyed
- Norwegian Elkhound
- Finnish Spitz
Protection breeds
Originally bred to guard livestock or help with police work, these dogs are alert and protective – but also loving and calm when they feel safe. With proper training, they’re excellent companions who take their role as family protectors seriously.
Popular breeds:
- German Shepherd
- Rottweiler
- Boxer
- Doberman Pinscher
- Bullmastiff
- Great Dane
- Akita
- Giant Schnauzer
- Rhodesian Ridgeback
Flock guards and mountain dogs
These dogs are big-boned, fearless, and deeply devoted to their families. Flock guard dogs were often white to blend in with sheep and surprise predators. Mountain dogs are gentle giants who can carry heavy loads or help in snowy terrain.
Popular flock guard breeds:
- Great Pyrenees
- Komondor
- Kuvasz
Popular mountain dogs:
- Bernese Mountain Dog
- Saint Bernard
- Newfoundland
If you’re looking for a reliable, courageous dog that will always have your back – and doesn’t mind a bit of work along the way – the working group might just be calling your name.
So, what kind of dog should you get?
Now that you’ve gotten to know the 7 dog groups, you probably have a clearer picture of what kind of pup might fit your lifestyle. Whether you’re after a playful sidekick, a gentle snuggler, or a clever little companion, there’s a dog out there just waiting to meet you.
Take your time, explore a bit more if you need to, and go with what feels right. Sometimes, the perfect dog finds you when you’re not even looking.
And no matter their size, look, or how loud they bark – every dog has the heart to become your best friend.