Non sporting dogs are a diverse group of breeds that don't fit into the traditional categories of sporting, herding, or working dogs. They come in a wide range of shapes and sizes, with some being small and playful, while others are large and gentle.
Many non sporting dogs have a long history as companions and family pets, with some breeds dating back thousands of years. The Pug, for example, has been a beloved companion of royalty and commoners alike for over 2,000 years.
Some non sporting dogs are known for their unique appearance, such as the Bulldog's distinctive wrinkled face and the Pug's flat face. These physical characteristics often require special care and attention to keep them healthy and happy.
Non sporting dogs are often described as "velcro dogs" because of their strong attachment to their human family members.
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Small Breeds
Small breeds are a subset of non-sporting dogs that excel at providing warmth and companionship to humans. Some popular small breeds include the Yorkshire terrier, the Chihuahua, and the Pomeranian.
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These tiny dogs are known for their affectionate nature and adaptability to city living. The Chihuahua, for example, is one of the smallest dog breeds and can thrive in small apartments.
Their small size also makes them a great choice for families with young children, as they are often gentle and easy-going.
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Bichon Frise
The Bichon Frise is a small but sturdy and resilient dog breed known for its great personality.
Standing a shade under a foot tall at the shoulder, Bichon Frises are compact dogs that make great companions for city dwellers and families alike.
Their white, hypoallergenic coat is a true showstopper, with a plush and velvety texture that's a joy to touch.
The breed's rounded head hair beautifully sets off its large, dark eyes, which are a striking contrast to the black leathers of the nose and lips.
Dogs
Small breeds make wonderful companions, and one reason is their compact size. Boston Terriers, for example, weigh no more than 25 pounds.
Their stylish "tuxedo" coat can be white and either black, brindle, or seal, which is a black color with a red cast when viewed in the sun or bright light.
The non-sporting group includes a diverse assortment of breeds that don't fit into the traditional roles of the other groups, and the English bulldog is one of them.
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Bulldog
The Bulldog is a breed that's easily recognizable by its unique features. Its loose skin on the head, furrowed brow, and pushed-in nose make it a one-of-a-kind dog.
You can't mistake a Bulldog for any other breed, thanks to its distinctive rolling gait and small ears. Its coat is short, smooth, and glossy, coming in a variety of colors and patterns.
The Bulldog's compact build and sturdy bone structure make it a popular companion dog. Its smooth coat requires minimal grooming, which is a bonus for busy owners.
The Bulldog's adaptability to city living is a major reason for its popularity, especially in the United States. Its endearing nature and compact size make it a great fit for city dwellers.
Unique Breeds
The world of non-sporting dogs is full of unique breeds that defy categorization. These dogs were originally bred for companionship and tasks such as guarding and carrying goods.
The Azawakh, for example, is a sighthound that originated in West Africa and is known for its lean physique and short coats. It's built for speed and endurance.
The Xoloitzcuintli, also known as the Mexican Hairless Dog, is a rare breed that comes in a variety of sizes and can be either hairless or coated. Its sleek, athletic build makes it a popular choice for active families.
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Coton de Tulear
The Coton de Tulear is a bright, happy-go-lucky companion dog. They're known as the "Royal Dog of Madagascar", which already gives you an idea of their regal demeanor.
Their favorite activities include clowning, cavorting, and following their special human around the house. They love being the center of attention!
The Coton is small but robustly sturdy, making them a great companion for apartment living or small homes. They pack a big personality into a tiny package.
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Keeshond
The Keeshond is a medium-sized spitz dog of ample coat. They're famous for their distinctive markings.
Their amiable nature makes them a great companion for families. They thrive on attention and interaction.
Keeshonds are known for their intelligence, which makes them relatively easy to train. With patience and consistency, they can learn to obey commands and behave well.
Their medium size means they don't require a huge amount of space to run around. A moderate-sized yard or regular walks should suffice.
Overall, the Keeshond is a wonderful breed that can bring joy and companionship to many families.
Lhasa Apso
The Lhasa Apso is a thousand-year-old breed.
They've been serving as sentinels at palaces for centuries.
Standing less than a foot high at the shoulder, this small dog has a big presence.
Their floor-length, flat-hanging coat is parted in the middle and drapes each side of the body.
A feathery tail curls over the back in the distinct manner of Tibetan breeds.
Chow Chow
Chow Chows are powerful, compactly built dogs standing as high as 20 inches at the shoulder.
Their distinctive traits include a lion's-mane ruff around the head and shoulders, which gives them a unique appearance.
Chows are known for having a blue-black tongue, which is a distinguishing feature of the breed.
A stiff-legged gait is another characteristic of Chow Chows, making them easily recognizable on the street.
Their deep-set almond eyes add to a scowling, snobbish expression, which some people find endearing.
Chinese Shar-Pei
The Chinese Shar-Pei is a compact, medium-sized dog with a unique appearance. They have a broad "hippopotamus" muzzle.
Their tongue is a distinctive feature, being blue-black in color. The small, sunken eyes give them a scowling expression.
Tiny triangular ears are another characteristic of the breed. The abundant folds of loose skin about the head, neck, and shoulders are quite striking.
The tapered high-set tail is a notable feature of the Chinese Shar-Pei.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the 7 classifications of dogs?
The 7 main classifications of dogs are Toy, Terriers, Working Dogs, Hounds, Herding Dogs, Sporting Dogs, and Non-Sporting Dogs, each with unique characteristics and purposes. Understanding these classifications can help you choose the perfect breed for your lifestyle and needs.
What are the two types of Tibetan dog breeds in the Non-Sporting Group?
The Non-Sporting Group includes the Lhasa Apso and Tibetan Spaniel as two of its Tibetan dog breeds.
What is the most sedentary dog breed?
The English Bulldog is considered one of the laziest dog breeds, making it a great fit for owners who want a low-maintenance companion. Known for their laid-back nature, English Bulldogs are perfect for those who want a relaxed and easy-going pet.
Sources
- https://www.akc.org/dog-breeds/non-sporting/
- https://www.westminsterkennelclub.org/conformation-records/group-winners/non-sporting/
- https://showsightmagazine.com/non-sporting-dog-breeds/
- https://www.dummies.com/article/home-auto-hobbies/pets/dogs/general-dogs/how-to-identify-non-sporting-dog-breeds-197561/
- https://www.petpremium.com/breeds/articles/non-sporting-breeds-vs-sporting-breeds/
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