What is species of dog

Taxonomical classification is how scientists classify organisms according to the hierarchy you see here. The taxonomy of the dog reflects that he is a member of the animal kingdom, or Animalia. The phylum Chordata, which includes those animals that are chordates or vertebrates, meaning they have a backbone. Dogs are classified in the class Mammalia, so they are mammals. Besides mammals, remember that other classes of chordates include fish, birds, reptiles, and amphibians. Dogs are further classified in the Carnivora order and the Canidae family. The genus Canis and species lupus of the dog are the same as that of the wolf. The dog is then classified as a subspecies, familiaris, of Canis lupus. Now be aware that you will find references that classify dogs as their own species, Canis familiaris, as well as references that classify dogs as they are here, as a subspecies of wolf. This is an ongoing discussion among scientists, so for the purposes of this class we will consider the dog as a subspecies of wolf, but be aware that there is discussion ongoing.

Dogs are the domesticated descendants of the Wolf. Dogs have one of two scientific names depending on the species. The two scientific names for dogs are:

Dogs are in the family Canidae, the dog-like carnivorans or canids, while the genus Canis means “dog” and includes wolves, dogs, coyotes and jackals. Their subfamily is Caninae, or canines, while their tribe is the dog-like or “true dog” tribe Canini and their sub-tribe is the wolf-like canids of Canina. Dogs are one of the first animals to be domesticated by prehistoric man.

All members of the genus Canis have common physical characteristics. Bone structure, behavior and reproduction are just a few markers that are unique to canids. Dogs also have unique characteristics that distinguish them from wolves. You can use some of these markers to determine whether a canid is a wolf or a dog.

Dogs are decedents of wolves and have a dental pattern that reflects their carnivorous diet. Their teeth are sharp, and designed to rip apart and chew meat. The four sharp, pointed teeth many humans have are called ‘canines’ for their resemblance. Teeth are one of the easiest ways to identify a canine. Most canids (of the family Canidae) have 42 teeth, with a dental formula of:

Canids generally share similar skull features, basic body shape, monogamous and pack behavior and retention of adult offspring.

Because dogs descended from wolves they are carnivores with biology designed for a meat based diet. However, very few pet dogs today eat strictly meat. Modern dog food is much more affordable than a purely meat diet, and offers a wider range of nutrients. Today dog food is often made by blending meat with grains and vegetables. Different meats like salmon, chicken, venison, beef, and pork are often used in dog food. These meats are commonly combined with potatoes, peas, carrots, and other vegetables.

Depending on your pet’s dietary needs there are many dog foods to choose from. There are dog foods to help your pet gain weight, and dog food to help them lose weight. There are even dog foods for allergies. Many owners start by first choosing wet vs dry dog food and going from there. Some of the best dog food options are below:

Dogs have a greater variance in behavioral and physical variation than any other land mammal, including wolves. Dogs have starch gel electrophoresis of red blood cell acid phosphatase. They also have smaller, compressed and crumpled tymphanic bullae. Physically, they have a more domed forehead and “stop” between the nose and forehead. Wolves have a more prominent temporalis mususscle (the muscle that closes the jaws) and do not have dew claws on their back legs. Dogs lack a pre-caudal gland and go into estrus twice instead of once a year. Whereas dogs usually have brown eyes, wolves have amber or pale-colored eyes. Their skin is thicker and their paws are half the size of those of a wolf.

Some house plants are poisonous to dogs, including Begonia, Poinsettia and Aloe Vera. Many human food items are indigestible or toxic to dogs, such as chocolate, onion, garlic, macadamia nuts, xylitol and nicotine. Diet-wise, dogs are omnivores and can handle a diet with more starch in it than a wolf, which is more strictly carnivorous.

There are several tribes of the subfamily Caninae. The dog-like tribe Canini is sister to the wolf-like tribe Vulpini. They are in the suborder Caniformia or Canoidea, the dog-like carnivorans. It stands in stark contrast to the cat-like carnivorans, the Feliformia or Feloidea suborder of Carnivora.

Sporting dogs were bred to help their hunters capture and retrieve game birds. Retrievers swim and focus on waterfowl, while setters, spaniels and pointers hunt game birds. Their coats are often thick and water-repellant to protect against the elements. Some examples of sporting dog breeds are Golden Retriever, Labrador Retriever, the Nova Scotia Dock Tolling Retriever, Cocker Spaniel and German Shorthaired Pointer.

Hound dogs were bred to chase after warm-blooded, terrestrial prey. They are generally divided into sighthounds, who use speed and vision to chase jackrabbits and antelopes, while scent hounds can use their noses to trail raccoons and people. All have strong prey drives. Some examples of hound dog breeds are Bloodhound, Greyhound and Dachshund.

Working dogs were bred to perform tasks such as guarding families or pulling sleds and carts. The Boxer, Great Dane and Rottweiler and a few examples of working dog breeds.

Herding dogs are a type of working dog along with service dogs. While herding dogs help herd livestock, service dogs help people with disabilities. However, they differ in that they were bred specifically to herd livestock, such as sheep, cattle and reindeer. Some are excellent for police and military work. A few examples of herding dog breeds are Border Collie, German Shepherd and Icelandic Sheepdog.

Terrier dogs were bred to be small in order to go after vermin hiding in the ground. They include terrier breeds, which have long legs to dig out rodents, and “bully” breeds, which were used for bull-baiting and now make companion dogs. Bull Terrier, Scottish Terrier, and Welsh Terrier are examples of terrier dog breeds. Some terrier breeds like the Airedale Terrier, Kerry Blue Terrier, and the Irish Terrier have curly furs.

Toy dogs were bred for their small size to be companion dogs. They are perfect for city dwellers or anyone living in a small house. A few examples of toy dog breeds are Chihuahua, Pug and Shih Tzu.

Non-sporting dogs do not fit into any of the other group types and were bred to be companionship animals. The Bulldog, Dalmatian and Poodle are a few examples of non-sporting dogs.

Dogs share a common ancestor with modern wolves. Many large dog breeds have been bred with wolves, such as malamutes and huskies. Some are sought by private citizens, while others have been used for security work. For example, the Russians in the late 1990s created a breeding program for wolf-dog hybrids called Volkosoby or Volkosob, which are used for border control. See a list of 8 dogs that look like wolves here.

First bred in 17th century Germany!

First used as a shepherd and hunter!

This dog has a thick coat of fur despite its origins in Morocco, a country known for its hot temperatures.

An innate sense of direction!

Very intelligent, independent and strong-minded!

This is a great pooch for rough-housing and one-to-one.

Often used as a guard dog!

Very clean, intelligent and loyal!

The Akita Shepherd descends from a lineage of working dogs.

The Alabai’s genes indicate that this breed has been around for more than 5,000 years.

The Alaskan Husky is one of the most common sled dogs in the world

The Alaskan Klee Kai is very vocal and isn't shy when communicating with his family.

This dog’s Malamute ancestors once came to America across the Bering Strait.

Good companion and hard-working breed!

Alusky dogs are known for their sledding pulling skills.

Merry, outgoing, and eager to please!

Easygoing and people-friendly!

The American Eskimo has splendid all white fur and an upturned tail

Sweet, kind, loyal, and very loving!

The American hairless terrier comes in two varieties with one having a very short coat.

This breed is also known as the American Leopard Cur. The name was formally changed to American Leopard Hound in 2008.

These dogs are very energetic and would be up for a game at any given point of time

Bred to be extremely friendly!

Friendly and intelligent!

Guards it's master's flocks!

Apple Head Chihuahuas are toy breed dogs with a history dating back to ancient Mexico. They are lovable, loyal, smart and courageous with a lengthy lifespan despite being the world's smallest canines.

The breed has its own popular Instagram page (Aussiedoodles Daily)!

Aussiedors come in black, brown, cream, yellow, and almost every imaginable color due to their parentage!

The Aussie is a strong swimmer, a good workout in nice weather.

High energy levels and active minds!

Friendly, intelligent and energetic!

The "Australian" just refers to where the breed originated

The Australian Retriever may have two different eye colors.

Sweet, faithful and affectionate!

Spirited, alert and courageous!

This dog has the nickname ‘Mud dog’ because it likes to play in muddy, swamp-like areas.

Alert, affectionate and energetic!

This dog is also known as a Bassetdor or a Basset Lab.

A friendly and intelligent hunting dog that loves nothing more than to spend time with its owner.

Forget the training when not rewarded!

Basset hounds have been around since the 7th century, but the bassetoodle made its first appearance in the 2000s.

The Bea-Tzu has a fast-growing coat

An excellent companion for cats!

Beagadors like to dig, so make sure your garden has a good fence around it.

Have become popular family pets!

This dog can perform a wide range of exotic and acrobatic tricks that are not expected of a dog this size.

These dogs have great sniffer abilities

Beagos are good swimmers like their Golden Retriever parent.

Weekly brushing is mandatory!

Beaskis love to play, so get ready to go on plenty of long walks.

The Beauceron is named after the place of its origin (Beauce) in France

Highly active and intelligent dogs!

The sheepdog is also known as the Groenendael. All four Belgian varieties have nicknames for Belgian villages.

The first breed to win an AKC Herding Championship.

Bergamascos are excellent problem solvers; they were bred to be independent as they work alongside their nomadic shepherd owners.

Berger means shepherd in French

The Bernedoodle was first bred in 2003 to create a dog with a similar temperament to the Bernese Mountain Dog that would have a longer lifespan.

Very loyal, faithful and affectionate!

Bernese shepherds prefer cool climates

Gentle mannered, playful and affectionate!

Despite its small size, the alert nature and sharp bark of this canine make it a good watch dog.

A toy terrier dog and is elegant and tri-colored.

This dog has its own unique howl.

Confident, calm and highly intelligent!

Affectionate, gentle and even-tempered!

Originated in Texas in the mid 1800s!

The Blue Picardy is also known as the Epagneul Bleu de Picardie in French

Has an uncanny knack for problem-solving!

Boggles at animal rescues are often mistaken for pitbulls because they have a similar facial structure.

Boglen terriers are also occasionally known as boggles.

From the northern Italian city of Bologna!

Boradors make excellent police dogs and are used often on search and rescue missions.

Highly intelligent and alert breed!

Small, rough-coated breed of terrier!

Bordoodles are much quieter than other Doodles and require far less exercise.

Most Borkies inherit the signature howl of their Beagle parent.

Friendly, lovable and very strong!

The name Bouvier des Flandres means cowherd of Flanders in French

Boxadors are extremely smart and catch onto backyard games very quickly!

Bright, energetic and playful!

The Boxerdoodle has a strong hunting dog lineage.

Boxers were bred to be working war dogs, and their boxsky descendants still love to help out on ranches and other outdoor jobs.

Boxweilers come in a variety of colors, but they usually feature the subtle brindle pattern that their boxer parents are so famous for.

Enthusiastic working dog!

Small body and tri-coloured coat!

The breed was formerly known as the Brittany spaniel

These small, confident dogs have no fear of approaching much larger dogs.

The Brussels Griffon prefers to live with another dog so they have a companion to play with.

Friendly, loving and docile!

Courageous, loyal and calm!

Intelligent, lively and strong!

Has a strong survival instinct!

Cane Corsos nearly became extinct in the mid 1900’s, but the breed was revived by a group of Italians. Even so, they still didn’t become known in many other parts of the world until after 1988.

Wild dog breed discovered in the 1970s!

The state of Louisiana's only native dog breed

This breed is called the Gos d’Atura Catala in native Catalan and Pastor Catalan in Spanish, both of which roughly translate to mean Catalan Sheepdog

Females are more territorial than males, but you can train this behavior out of them.

The Cavador is a good service dog.

Highly playful and affectionate!

The temperament of a Cavapoo allows this breed to make an excellent family dog as well as a great therapy dog.

An affectionate hunting dog!

This breed is also known as the Bohemian Terrier (Bohemia was an historical Medieval kingdom and a region of the modern Czech Republic)

Some Cheagles have an excellent sense of smell.

Bright and happy disposition!

Curious and devoted personality!

These dogs have a blue and black tongue.

A calm and friendly breed!

The Chipoo was first bred in the 1970s

Chiweenies travel especially well.

Chorkies are very fond of their owners and will love to sit in their laps for long amounts of time!

Loyal and affectionate to it's family!

The Chow Shepherd is also known as the Sheprachow.

The Cockalier has very strong hunting ancestry.

Cockapoos became popular in the 1960s as a sweet, family dog.

Corgidors are herding dogs that typically help out on cattle farms.

These dogs are highly intelligent and are easy to train.

One of the Corkie’s parent breeds, the Cocker Spaniel, was thought to have come over on the Mayflower.

Corman Shepherds can be great watchdogs and are often very protective of their owners.

The soft coat of the Coton de Tulear is the result of a singular genetic mutation early in the breed's development.

A lively and fun-loving breed!

This breed is also known as the Czechoslovakian Vlcak (the name for the German Shepherd).

This hybrid dog is also known as a Doxador or a Weinerdor.

Fun and playful breed of small dog!

Dalmatians were originally bred to run alongside carriages, and their dalmadoodle descendents have the same long legs and high energy.

Dalmador breeding skyrocketed after the 16 release of the live-action 101 Dalmatians movie.

Have an energetic and playful nature!

A Dapple Dachshund’s dappling pattern may be just one spot, or it may be numerous spots and splashes on their coat.

The Chihuahua is the smallest dog breed in the world.

Has long drop ears and a long narrow tail!

A gentle, loyal and loving breed!

First domesticated in South-East Asia!

Loyal and affectionate to their family!

Extremely loyal and devoted to it's master!

The Dorgi is one of the more popular mixed breed dogs.

Dorkies are so laid-back they sometimes need extra incentive to exercise each day.

Doxiepoos are an unpredictable breed that can come in a variety of appearances and sizes.

Doxles have long floppy ears

Uncommon outside of Europe!

A friendly and relaxed dog!

Bulldogs were originally bred to “pin” bulls.

Intelligent yet stubborn by nature!

Although their coats can get incredibly light in color, golden retrievers never have purely white coats.

English Foxhounds were bred to work and live in a pack. Because of this, this breed is happiest when they are around other dogs.

English Setters were first bred between 400 and 500 years ago.

Highly intelligent and independent!

Friendly and eager to please!

Native to parts of the Swiss Alps!

Hard-working, gentle and affectionate!

Takes pure delight in cold weather!

Eskipoos are called pookimos by the American Canine Hybrid Club, Designer Dogs Kennel Club, and Designer Breed Registry.

Very protective and stubborn!

The word feisty derived from this type of dog.

A sociable and adaptable breed!

The breed has a unique, cat-like gait, while females have a finer gait than males.

A game retrieving gun-dog!

Formosa is the Portuguese term for the island of Taiwan

First bred in the mid-19th century!

French bulldogs are known to be very sensitive, harboring emotions that they love to express

Loyal small dogs, the Frenchton will keep you warm at night with loving cuddles, but also awake with their funny loud snoring!

Frengles have a haunting howl very similar to their Beagle parent.

German Shepherds, Siberian Huskies, and Gerberian Shepskies are all popular choices for police dogs.

Highly intelligent and fast learners!

Highly active and fearless dogs!

The German Sheppit is well-suited for guarding and police work.

There is a chance that the German Sheprador may inherit a love for water from its parent.

German Shorthaired Pointers are used by the Air Force, TSA, and other organizations to sniff out explosives.

There are five different sub-breeds of the German Spitz.

Large, powerful and dominant!

Both parents of the Giant Schnoodle are hypoallergenic, making this one of the Doodle breeds that's safest for dander-sensitive owners.

Glechons are talented in the area of search and rescue, as their sense of smell makes them great at tracking.

This dog is also named the Wicklow Terrier after the county of its origin.

These dogs are great around children and are very playful around them.

Goldadors were not intentionally bred until the early 2000s!

Golden doxes don't have to be tiny. This breed looks different depending on whether the mix includes a regular dachshund or the mini version of the species.

These dogs love to swim and instinctively know how to swim.

Golden Pyrenees make great therapy dogs due to their intelligence and gentle nature.

Trusting, kind and gentle!

Golden saints come in all kinds of colors. You can find them in tan, chocolate, yellow, brindled, spotted, and almost any other pattern you can think of.

The Golden Shepherds were first recognized by the International Designer Canine Registry in 2009.

Due to their breeding, no two Goldendoodles are alike.

It's the largest and heaviest breed of setter.

Large and imposing in appearance!

Both Great Danes and Poodles are in the top 15 most popular AKC breeds - which makes Great Danoodles a shoo-in for popularity.

Protective and gentle by nature!

Strong and speedy breed of dog!

Extremely fast and athletic!

Griffonshires are so little they are easily mistaken for puppies throughout their lives.

Although developed as a herding dog, the breed makes an excellent guard and working dog and is used by police forces and the military.

Cheerful, tolerant and sweet-tempered!

These are the only dogs that are native to Cuba

The exact appearance of a Havapoo can vary based on whether the genes of its Poodle or Havanese parent are more dominant.

Both of the Havashire’s parent breeds were very popular among the upper classes.

Known for its bravery and ability to withstand the cold.

Horgis have a silly side and love to be the center of attention.

Huntaways have a strong instinct for herding.

Huskadors are gaining in popularity as service dogs.

Huskitas prefer a consistent daily routine with lots of activity.

To communicate, Siberian Huskies rarely bark but instead create their own music and howl.

Due to the mix of genes, a Husky Jack’s coat may be a variety of colors including black, gray, white, red, sable, or mixed colors.

Huskydoodles are known for their jumping abilities!

Intelligent, active and engaging by nature!

The Icelandic Sheepdog is the only dog breed entirely native to Iceland.

Irish Doodles can be very active dogs, but they also love just hanging out with their family members in the house.

Can live for up to 16 years!

An average 300 Irish Terrier puppies are born each year in the United States.

The only known canine with a purple hue.

Sweet-tempered, patient and thoughtful!

The Italian Greyhound is a miniature dog with a big motor and personality!

Intelligent, athletic and fearless!

The Jackabee has an excellent sense of smell.

Alert, intelligent and independent!

The Japanese Spitz is sometimes referred to as a cloud dog.

Japanese Terriers are also called Nippon Terriers

Kai Ken are a very rare breed of dog from Japan, though pure breeds are even harder to come by.

Can run up to 35 miles per hour (56km).

Friendly, alert dogs that are loyal to their owners

They are born black, and turn gray-blue as they age.

This hybrid breed is the largest among the shepherd class.

Once raised to hunt dangerous game like boar, today's kishu ken are more likely to be used as guard dogs.

If Kooikerhondjes look familiar, it’s because old Dutch masters like Rembrandt and Jan Steen liked to paint them.

The name "koolie" comes from the German mispronunciation of "collie."

Ownership of this dog was once restricted to the Hungarian nobility

The AKC does not recognize this breed or the parent breed Catahoula

Loves to participate in activities.

Labradanes can come with both sold-color coats and the more exciting patterns that you typically see on Great Danes.

Friendly and energetic mix-breed!

Well-balanced, friendly and versatile!

These dogs have medium-sized pendant ears.

These dogs were once used by farmers to keep foxes away from herds of sheep.

The name “heeler” comes from the fact that it nips at the heels of cattle to herd them.

This breed is also known as the Lapp Reindeer Dog and the Lapsk Vallhund.

This dog has been used for pulling carts full of goods.

The Lhasa Apso was often given as a gift in Tibetan culture

A Lhasapoo’s coat can be curly like a poodle’s or long and silky like a Lhasa Apso’s.

Rottweilers have a tendency to snore.

This breed is also known as the "Little Lion Dog" for their bravery and manes.

The Malchi is not a purebred but a crossbreed and relatively new on the scene. That’s why they are not recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC) or any other canine organization.

Malteagles are one of the smallest beagle hybrids and love to follow their owners everywhere.

Originally bred in Europe!

Both parent breeds, the Maltese and Shih Tzu, once entertained royalty

Maltipoos may have one of three different coat types depending on the specific genes they inherit from their parents. These include silky, curly, or wavy.

Fences are no match for Manchester terriers. They’re great escape artists!

The Mastador gets its enormous size from its Mastiff parent

Courageous, calm and affectionate!

The Meagle has an incredible sense of smell.

They can be trained to use the litter box like a cat!

The first mini labradoodle was bred in the early 1990s - almost immediately after standard labradoodles became popular.

This dog has a very happy-go-lucky temperament.

The Miniature Husky has a double coat that it sheds twice annually. Also, some people confuse them with Alaskan Klee Kai, which have similar blue eyes.

Stable rodents were kept in check by using it as a barnyard ratter.

Has characteristics of two or more breeds!

A Morkie puppy can weigh as little as 4 ounces.

This Molosser-type dog is the Russian cousin of St. Bernard.

Mountain Feists were bred in the southern United States as a dog that could help with hunting small game.

Mudi dogs have a reputation for being able to control a herd of 500 sheep.

Fearless and extremely protective of it's home!

Introduced by Vikings more than 1,000 years ago!

Newfypoos have a thick oily coat that can be hard to groom.

Fearless but not aggressive!

The Norwegian Buhund once worked on Norse homesteads

This breed traveled with the Vikings!

This breed is also called the Norsk Lundehund and the Norwegian Puffin Dog

Though Norwich terriers are small, they have a reputation for being feisty.

The Toller is one of only two breeds that hunters use as decoys while hunting.

Intelligent, sociable and playful!

Otterhounds have webbed feet making them great swimmers!

Originally called the Toy Spaniel, the Papillon is one of the oldest breeds in the toy group. They can be found in artwork dating back to the 16th century.

The root stock of the breed was a dog named Trump

A Patterdale Terrier’s small body structure allows it to squeeze into fox burrows.

Peagles enjoy being the center of attention. This can make them a very entertaining breed to own.

Thought to be over 2,000 years old!

The Pembroke Welsh Corgi is a favorite breed of Queen Elizabeth II

The breed has feet like a cat, with rounded toes that are not too close together. His unique feet give him a distinctive, long, elastic stride.

The Peruvian Inca Orchid is the national dog of Peru

A small dog with a big, lively personality.

Like their purebred parents, these dogs love the water!

It is a myth that pit bulls have locking jaws.

There are several names for this breed, including the Labrabull or the Pitador Retriever.

Most Pitskies will do best as the only pet in a home. They may become aggressive with other dogs (especially two unneutered male dogs) and could try to chase or catch small pets due to their higher prey drive.

Queen Elizabeth I of England once owned several Pocket Beagles

The smaller size of the Pocket Pitbull made it better suited for fleeing game as compared to larger Foxhounds.

An independent, loyal and high energy breed!

Despite having shaggy hair that covers its eyes, this dog is known for its watchful gaze when guarding a herd.

Pomapoos like companionship and do not like being alone. They may do better in a home with other dogs.

A deliberate cross like the Pomchi is commonly referred to as a designer dog

Pomeagles are sweet and fun dogs that like to spend time exploring their environment.

The ancestors of the Pomeranian were sled dogs.

The howls and barks of a Pomsky can sound like singing

The Poochon was first bred in Australia.

Intelligent, alert and active!

The Poogle is one of 40 different doodle dog breeds (poodle mixes).