The History of Dog Breeding

Our love affair with dogs goes back thousands of years. Back 16,000 years or more, before the dawn of time when a dog was not just a pet, but an important necessity for our survival.

For all that time, dogs have been our hunting buddies, our assistant, protectors, and companions. Through the ages, other animals have become integral parts of our lives, but none more than the dog.

Dogs have evolved from their ancestor the wolf, into many breeds; but it wasn't until the 19th century that those breeds started becoming cataloged and formalized by Kennel Clubs. The breeds evolved as a result of the duties they could perform that could benefit man. Good dames and sires were paired to accentuate certain traits which led to the emergence of the various breeds.

One specific Kennel Club group, the sporting dogs include Hounds, Beagles, Pointers, Retrievers, Setters, and Spaniels who evolved from the need to have a dog that would aid in hunting. Many medieval paintings, and even paintings in recent times show elite owners with their many hunting dogs. Foxhounds in particular, have a record in the US that dates back to 1650, when Robert Brooke brought them to America with his family. The origin of the hound can be traced to many ancient documents and wall paintings from Egypt and Assyria.

Working dogs include the Shepherds, Sheepdogs, Collies and other types of herding breeds. They are the dogs that excel at performing duties and tasks. In ancient times, they protected and herded livestock. Now, there are many variations of working dogs including police and rescue dogs, companion dogs and assistance dogs.

Since ancient times, other attributes of dogs have been favored as well, like size; thus Toy Breeds have evolved as another Kennel Club group.

No matter the dog breed, they have all crossed time and now likely has become your special companion - which means, your pet has become an important part of your life.  Why not take some time to learn more about your special K9 friend?  Work with a professional dog trainer in Phoenix, AZ  or at a school for dog trainers to learn more about dogs.