If you’ve been thinking about getting a new dog then you’re not alone – Kennel Club figures show that the number of people looking for puppies surged in the last couple of years.
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But with 221 different breeds of pedigree dog to choose from, there’s plenty of thinking to do before you select your family’s latest four-legged addition – whether you want a large dog, family-friendly dog, or crossbreed.
There’s even academic guidance to seek out, with Psychologist Stanley Coren’s book ‘The Intelligence of Dogs’ ranking breeds by instincts, obedience, and the ability to adapt.
All types of dog also have a geographical history, having a country where they were first bred and developed – before spreading across the world and being recognised by kennel clubs.
Here are 10 breeds of dog that have American heritage.
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5. Chesapeake Bay Retriever
Two dogs rescued from a shipwreck in Maryland in 1807 are the descendents of the modern Chesapeake Bay Retrievers. Called Sailor and Canton, they bred with local dogs and the rest is history. Photo: Canva/Getty Images
6. Black and Tan Coonhound
Bred in its native America to hunt racoons, the Black and Tan Coonhound can trace its heritage back to the Talbot Hound that was a common in 11th century England. It is one of six breeds of Coonhound recognised by the American Kennel Club - but the only one recognised by the UK Kennel Club. Photo: Canva/Getty Images
7. Alaskan Malamute
Their forebears are thought to have arrived in North America over 12,000 years ago and are genetically close to the Siberian Husky. The modern Malamutes was first bred by the Malimiut Inupiaq people of Alaska's Norton Sound area. Photo: Canva/Getty Images
8. American Fox Hound
Another type of dog not recognised as a distinct breed by the UK Kennel Club is the American Fox Hound. They were created by President George Washington and used to hunt foxes. Photo: Canva/Getty Images