A short guide to breeds

Puppy Guide

The Kennel Club recognises seven breed groups. Each has it's own characteristics and health issues which are taken into consideration by most pet insurance companies when quoting a premium.

Toy
Hound
Pastoral
Terrier
Gundog
Utility
Working

Toy
Ideal for the smaller house or flat, toys are the tots of the dog world. Easy to train and great companions that don't need too much exercise.

Hound
Bred for hunting larger game, they are generally fast runners with great stamina. They will require at least one run out a day and make ideal family pets.

Pastoral
Bred as working dogs, used to herd farm animals. They are tough resourceful personalities that can become easily bored if not stimulated. Easy to train, they enjoy family life and children.

Terrier
Bred to hunt small burrowing prey, they are feisty characters that defend their territory (your home) fairly tenaciously. However, they make idea loving family pets. A daily walk should be enough, as long as they can also run round the garden.

Gundog
Bred originally for retrieving game, they are medium to large-sized dogs. Generally easy going, great companions and settle easily into a family life. They are happy to eat and lounge around if allowed. So watch their diet and make sure they exercise regularly.

Utility
As the name suggests these are the great all rounders, coming in a wide variety of shapes and sizes. They are generally strong characters, require lots of exercise and make fantastic guard dogs.

Working
Bred as guards, they include the giant Great Dane weighing in at a massive 9 stone! This breed group require a great deal of care, with a strong emphasis on training.