* Defining "natural" is subjective: What constitutes a "natural" breed can be debated. Some argue that only breeds that arose without human intervention are truly natural, while others consider breeds developed through selective breeding over centuries to be natural.
* Continuum of breeds: Many breeds have a long history of interbreeding, making it difficult to define a distinct "natural" origin.
* Ongoing discovery: New breeds are still being discovered and recognized by kennel clubs.
However, we can say this:
* Hundreds of recognized breeds: The American Kennel Club (AKC) recognizes over 190 breeds, and other kennel clubs around the world recognize even more.
* Landrace dogs: These are dogs that have developed naturally within specific regions, often adapted to local climates and tasks. They're often not recognized by kennel clubs but are crucial for understanding dog evolution.
* Ancient breeds: Some breeds are considered ancient, such as the Basenji, Saluki, and Tibetan Mastiff, suggesting they have a longer history of natural selection than more recent breeds.
Ultimately, the exact number of natural dog breeds is debatable. However, it's safe to say that there are many breeds with distinct origins and histories, contributing to the incredible diversity of the canine world.