Differences Between The Various Dog Breeds
About 1000 dog breeds are known today , but only a quarter of them have been studied in order to know their specific behaviors and differences with other breeds.
This type of study was carried out following a vast set of methodologies that made it possible to know what the various races are for and what differences are identified between them.
In this way it was possible to determine which breeds were best suited to guide flocks, which to help blind people as guide dogs, which were brought to pull sleds or save lives. The function that each breed develops is determined by its abilities and temperament.
The differences between dog breeds are therefore not determined solely by their size or physical characteristics.
Studies carried out
Between 1950 and 1960, two scientists, Scott and Fuller, selected five different dog breeds, which were bred under the exact same conditions. The dogs in question were a Basenji, a Fox Terrier, a Cocker Spaniel, a Beagle and a Shetland Sheepdog. Scott and Fuller found extremely significant differences between the various specimens, and attributed them to genetic causes. Nonetheless, the two scientists later identified other important differences within individuals of the same race.
Another more recent study involved 56 different breeds with 13 different behaviors. During the research, a score was assigned to each breed and each temperament, according to the judgment of a group of veterinarians and dog show judges.
The study showed that the “race” factor plays an extremely important role in establishing differences in temperament.
Even in this case, however, much more predictable behavioral trends have been identified than others according to race. This means that the breed is not the only factor that affects the presence of differences between various dogs.
Regardless of its breed, each animal is unique and has its own character, determined by the education received, childhood lived or genetics.
Another factor that can affect the differences between the races is the environmental factor.
For example, if two dogs of distinct breeds are bred by people with similar tastes and expectations, similarities may be found between the two dogs.
However, the fact that a dog is of one breed or another has no influence on character. Character consists of something that is determined on the basis of lived experiences and factors experienced throughout life. But don’t confuse character with temperament!
The temperament is in effect proper to each race, and it is what determines that some races are more predisposed to certain types of assignments rather than others.
Which breed is right for me?
If you are planning to get a dog, it is likely that given the difference between the various breeds, you are already wondering which of the many is best for you. Unfortunately this is a question that we cannot answer.
There is no better or worse breed. Also, as we have seen, each dog has a different character.
So when you are about to choose a dog, it will all depend on your needs, your family and why you want a dog. Are you interested in having a guard dog for your home? Do you want a dog that stays indoors and gets along well with children? Are you looking for a quiet one that keeps you company?
For a choice of this kind, as emerged from this article, race can be a good decision parameter. So, when you go to a professional kennel to choose your future dog, explain to the caregiver what are the tasks you would like the dog to complete and let the expert advise you.
Depending on the breed you choose, you will find a dog perfectly prepared to do what you ask, as the temperament is determined by the breed itself. Do not forget, however, that the character, on the contrary, is defined by the way in which you will raise it and by the education that the animal will receive.
