1. Sporting Group: This group consists of dogs bred primarily for hunting and retrieving. It includes breeds like Retrievers, Spaniels, Pointers, and Setters.
2. Hound Group: This group encompasses dogs used for hunting by tracking scents or sighting prey. It includes breeds such as Beagles, Bloodhounds Foxhounds, and Greyhounds.
3. Working Group: Dogs in this groups were developed for various working purposes, such as herding, guarding, and pulling carts. Some common breeds include German Shepherds, Rottweilers, Siberian Huskies, and Akitas.
4. Terrier Group: Terriers are small, courageous dogs originally bred to hunt rodents and other small animals. The group includes breeds like Bull Terriers, Fox Terriers, Jack Russell Terriers, and Scottish Terriers.
5. Toy Group: This group comprises breeds that are primarily companion dogs, characterized by their small size. It includes breeds like Chihuahuas, Maltese, Pomeranians, and Poodles (toy variety).
6. Non-Sporting Group: Dogs belonging to this groups do not fit neatly into any of the other categories. It includes breeds like Poodles (non-toy varieties), Dalmatians, Boston Terriers, and Bulldogs.
7. Herding Group: Herding dogs are known for their ability to control and move livestock. This group consists of breeds like Border Collies, Australian Shepherds, Corgis, and Old English Sheepdogs.
Breed classification within the AKC groups helps organize and evaluate dogs based on their breed characteristics, historical background, and intended roles. The purpose of this categorization is to preserve and promote the distinct traits and qualities associated with each breed.