How Many Dog Breeds Are There?

Dogs come in a remarkable variety of shapes, sizes, and personalities. From the tiny Chihuahua to the considerably larger Great Dane, the diversity among dog breeds is astounding. This variety stems from centuries of breeding, where dogs were selectively bred for various traits such as size, temperament, and ability to perform certain tasks. But just how many dog breeds are there? The answer is pretty complicated!

How Many Dog Breeds Are There?

There are probably around 400 - 500 dog breeds in the world, although this number is very much an estimate. The true figure could be lower or even higher.

Determining the exact number of dog breeds in the world today is more complicated than it might seem at first glance. This complexity arises from the varying criteria used by dog breed registries around the world. Different canine organizations have their own set of standards and criteria for breed recognition, leading to discrepancies in breed counts across the globe.

Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI)

On a global scale, the FCI is one of the largest canine organizations, encompassing many countries with its breed recognition. The FCI recognizes over 360 breeds, which they categorize into 10 groups. This higher number reflects the FCI's international reach and the inclusion of breeds that may not be recognized in the US or UK. 

Why the Variation?

The differences in breed counts among these organizations are due to various factors. Some breeds recognized by one registry might not meet the criteria set by another. Additionally, new breeds are continually being developed and recognized, while others might fall out of favor and become extinct or merge into similar breeds. 

Cultural differences also play a significant role. For example, a breed popular in one country may be virtually unknown in another, influencing whether it's recognized by a national kennel club.

Breed Recognition Process

The process of breed recognition is rigorous and can take many years. It involves documenting the breed's lineage, characteristics, and maintaining a consistent breed standard. This standard outlines the ideal characteristics of the breed, including appearance, behavior, and other traits.

The Role of Mixed-Breed Dogs

It's also important to acknowledge mixed-breed dogs, which make up a significant portion of the dog population. While they may not be recognized as official breeds, mixed-breed dogs offer just as much variety, companionship, and love as their purebred counterparts.

So, how many dog breeds are there? The answer depends on who you ask! One thing we do know is that Michele has drawn a large number of them - check out apparel for a large selection of dog breeds, as well as other types of animals, using our Find My Breed tool.