How many dog breeds are there? Get to know the number of breeds, groups of dogs in US

Dogs come in all shapes and sizes. From the miniature poodle to the gigantic doberman, there are so many breeds — each with their own personality and temperament.

But how many dog breeds are there?

Here's a rundown on the number of dog breeds registered by different kennel clubs across the globe, as well as a explanation of the dog breed groups.

How many dog breeds are there?

In the United States, the American Kennel Club currently registers 201 dog breeds. This number, however, does not include mixed-breed dogs or "designer" crossbreeds, such as the goldendoodle (a golden retriever-poodle mix) or cockapoo (a cocker spaniel-poodle mix).

The first breed to be recognized by the AKC was the pointer in 1878. The most recent addition to the AKC registry is the Lancashire Heeler, which was recognized on Jan. 3, 2024.

Worldwide, the Fédération Cynologique Internationale officially recognizes 360 breeds. The FCI, also known as the International Canine Federation, is the largest international federation of kennel clubs with members, associates and partners in 98 countries.

New breed recognized by AKC: What to know about the Lancashire Heeler.

Dog breed groups, explained

The American Kennel Club categorizes dog breeds into seven groups:

• Sporting group

• Hound group

• Working group

• Terrier group

• Toy group

• Non-sporting group

• Herding group

The sporting group consists of breeds who worked with hunters to find and retrieve feathered game. Sporting dog breeds are energetic and active. Examples of this group include the English cocker spaniel, Golden retriever and Labrador retriever.

The hound group was originally bred for hunting. Thanks to this, these dogs have great senses of sight or smell. Examples of this group include the beagle, bloodhound and greyhound.

The working group has a fitting name since these dog were initially bred to help humans with tasks, such as guarding property or pulling sleds. Working breeds are strong and smart. Examples of this group include the Siberian husky, boxer and Bernese mountain dog.

Those in the terrier group were originally bred to catch rodents and other vermin underground. They also were meant to act as guard dogs for family homes or barns. Terrier breeds are often characterized as feisty and fully of energy. Examples of this group include the West Highland white terrier, Scottish terrier and bull terrier.

Breeds in the toy group are known for their small size. Despite their miniature stature, these dogs are full of personality. Toy breeds are social and affectionate. Examples of this group include the Yorkshire terrier, Shih Tzu and Maltese.

What is the smallest dog breed in the world? Facts to know and history of the breed.

Non-sporting dogs come in a diverse range of breeds. They have different sizes, coats and personalities. Examples of this group include the Shiba Inu, standard poodle and Boston terrier.

The herding group is categorized by the breeds' ability to round up and protect. All breeds in the herding group were previously a part of working group until 1983. Examples of this group include the Australian cattle dog, border collie and Pembroke Welsh corgi.

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This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: How many dog breeds are there? Groups of dog breeds, explained