doggie information: dogs and dog breeds

basic dog information: dogs and dog breeds:


origin of the word dog

the term "dog" comes from the Middle English word "dogge" which originated from the Old English "docga" meaning "powerful dog breed".

another word that was used to refer to dogs in the 14th century England is the word "hound". however, hound became such a popular dog type that refer only to hunting dogs, so the word hound was eventually used only for these types of hunting dogs; and then, the word dog started to become used as the general term for all types of dogs.

thus, the word dog refers to all canines or all dog breeds, but then, there are lots of different dog breeds! these different breeds vary in physical traits, behavior, and personality.

their height ranges from very small to really large. their colors vary from white to gray to black or from tan to red to chocolate (also comes in different patterns). and their coats also differ in length and in texture. some dogs have short hair, and some have long hair. it can be coarse or fleecy, straight, smooth, or curly. some dogs shed their fur, while some continuously grow their hair. even their eye colors also vary!

some dogs live as simple companions, while some as show dogs or competition dogs. some are sporting dogs or working dogs. some dogs are great family pets, while some are best used as guide dogs. there are even dogs that excel as guard dogs, or even as attack dogs!

really, the variety of dogs makes them such interesting specimens. while humans have different races, dogs come in different breeds. really interesting!

basic doggie information: scientific name of dogs, etc.

basic dog information: scientific name of dogs, etc.

fifteen thousand years ago, the Canis lupus familiaris or the Canis familiarus domesticus - the Dog - is domesticated or tamed from the gray wolf (Canis lupus). the term "dog" though is used for both feral (wild) and pet (household) types of dogs. since then, dogs have become a close companion to humans, thus they are called "man's best friend."

dogs help people in many ways. their roles range from guarding the house, protecting their owners, carrying and pulling loads, hunting, herding, and serving as military or police dogs, as well as guide dogs for handicapped people.

the best role of dogs though is that they are such great companions. there is just no other animal that is as loyal as dogs. this is probably the reason why dogs are found in all cultures across the globe. In fact, in 2001, it was recorded that there were about 400 million dogs all over the world. and right now there already hundreds of different dog breeds (or types of dogs) as a result of man's selective breeding of dogs.

lots of dogs now vary in personality, behavior, and physical traits. from chihuahuas, to labradors, to st.bernards. you can choose the best dog for your own preference to fit your unique lifestyle. you'll be sure to find the right dog who'll stay by your side and can be your very "best friend."