How do I Determine a Dog Breed by Physical Characteristics?

Dogs vary in shape, size, color and coat type. A breed of dog serves to categorize dogs that are similar in physical characteristics. However, even within the same breed, dogs vary, making it difficult to identify their heritage. This is especially so for mixed dogs that are not purebred. To identify a dog's breed, compare the dog's physical characteristics to a rubric of dog breeds and characteristics.

  1. Size

    • Examine the size of the dog. Dogs range from toy breeds, such as the chihuahua, toy spaniel, toy poodle, miniature pinscher and Pomeranian, to large breeds such as the greyhound, Great Dane, Leonberger and mountain dog. However, many breeds greatly range in size. When examining a dog for size, feel the frame of the dog through the coat. Long hair can be deceiving, making a dog appear larger than it is. Weigh the dog for a more accurate measurement. Small dogs are normally under 15 lbs., medium dogs range from 15 to 50 lbs. and large dogs exceed 50 lbs, with some breeds weighing well over 100 lbs.

    Face

    • Examine the dog's face. Look at the shape of the dog's ears. Some breeds of dog are known for long and wavy ears, while others have sharp and pointed ears. Look at the shape and size of the dog's eyes. Identify whether the dog's eyes are more round or oval. Determine whether the dog's eyes droop or not. Some breeds of dog are known particularly for their eyes. Bloodhounds, for instance, are famous for their very droopy eyes. Examine the dog's nose or snout to see whether it is small or large, round or pointed. Note whether the dog has a wrinkly face or not.

    Coat

    • Examine the dog's coat. Dog breeds vary in the color and length of coat, but these two characteristics can help to narrow the possibilities of breed. Take care to note subtle tones or shades in the coat. Some dogs, such as rottweilers and Dobermans, have black coats with tints of red or brown. Identify any spots or patches of color and where these color changes occur. Identify whether the dog has long, short or medium hair. Also identify the texture of the coat, whether coarse, wirey or corded. However, some dog breeds, such as the Chinese crested, have no coat at all.

    Tail

    • Observe the dog's tail. Measure the length of the tail and take note of its shape and texture. Some dogs, such as pugs and chow chows, have very curly tails that are sometimes referred to as corkscrew tails. Dobermans and boxers are known for their docked tails, which are short and nubby. Other kinds of dog tails include the rat tail, which is long and hangs down, the flag pole tail, which is long and often erect, and the natural tail, which is long, low and furry.