Dog breeds have been an integral part of human society for centuries, serving as companions, working animals, and even symbols of cultural heritage. The names we use for dog breeds today are not arbitrary; they have a rich history and are often derived from the dog’s characteristics, the area where the breed originated, or the purpose for which it was initially bred. But who decides what to call these breeds? Who is responsible for assigning names to the various dog breeds we recognize today? This article will explore the process behind the naming of dog breeds, the organizations involved, and the historical and cultural influences that shape these names.
The Role of Kennel Clubs and Breed Standards
The primary organizations responsible for officially recognizing and naming dog breeds are kennel clubs. These are organizations that establish breed standards, regulate dog shows, and oversee the registration of purebred dogs. Some of the most well-known kennel clubs include the American Kennel Club (AKC) in the United States, The Kennel Club (UK) in the United Kingdom, and the Fédération Cynalogique Internationale (FCI), which is an international federation of kennel clubs from around the world.
These organizations are responsible for formally recognizing a breed as a legitimate, distinct type of dog. A breed is only considered “official” once it meets the criteria set by one of these governing bodies. They maintain extensive breed standards, which include physical characteristics (such as size, coat type, and color) as well as behavioral traits that should be consistent within the breed.
The Process of Naming a Dog Breed
When it comes to naming a dog breed, it is usually a combination of historical tradition, geographical origin, and sometimes specific characteristics that influence the final decision. While kennel clubs play a key role in recognizing and formalizing breeds, the names themselves often evolve over time and are influenced by a variety of factors.
1. Historical Influence and Tradition
Many dog breeds derive their names from the history of the breed. For example, the Cocker Spaniel is named after its original use as a bird hunter for woodcocks, while the Great Dane gets its name from the word “Danish,” despite the breed actually originating in Germany. These names often carry significant historical and cultural meaning, reflecting the breed’s past role in society.
Other breeds are named after specific regions or countries where they were first developed. The German Shepherd is a prime example, as it was originally bred in Germany for herding sheep. Similarly, the French Bulldog originated in France, and its name reflects both its geographical roots and its physical appearance.
2. Geographical Naming
Geography plays an important role in naming dog breeds. Many dog breeds are named after the areas where they were first developed or where their ancestors originated. For instance, the Yorkshire Terrier is named after the Yorkshire region in the United Kingdom, while the Siberian Husky gets its name from the Siberian region of Russia. These names help identify where the breed comes from and provide context for their development and purpose.
In some cases, dog breeds are named after specific towns, regions, or landmarks that are associated with the breed. For example, the Dachshund, often referred to as the “sausage dog,” is named after the German town of Dachshund, which is known for producing the breed. The Shih Tzu derives its name from the Chinese word for “lion,” but its origins are rooted in the Chinese palace, where it was bred as a companion dog.
3. Physical Characteristics and Function
Another common way to name a dog breed is based on its physical characteristics or the specific function for which the dog was bred. The name might describe a particular trait or ability, such as size, coat type, or color. For example, the Basset Hound is named after its short legs (from the French word “bas,” meaning “low”), while the Dalmatian is named after the Dalmatia region of Croatia, where the breed is believed to have originated.
Some breeds are named after the work they were originally bred to do. The Border Collie, for example, is a herding dog that was originally bred in the border regions between England and Scotland. Similarly, the Beagle is a small hound bred for hunting small game, and its name reflects its role as a hunting dog.
Additionally, some dogs are named based on their specialized skills. The Golden Retriever is named for its golden coat and its ability to “retrieve” game, while the German Pointer (or German Shorthaired Pointer) is a breed of dog originally used for hunting due to its keen sense of smell and strong instinct to point at game.
4. Personal Names
Occasionally, a breed might be named after a person who contributed to the development or popularization of the breed. For example, the Doberman Pinscher is named after its German breeder, Karl Friedrich Louis Dobermann, who developed the breed in the late 19th century. Similarly, the Saint Bernard is named after the monastery at the Great Saint Bernard Pass, where monks bred the dogs to help rescue travelers in the Swiss Alps.
Other breeds are named after famous individuals or groups that played a role in the breed’s development. The Basset Hound, for example, may have been influenced by the name of the hound developed by a Frenchman named Jean de Saint-Hubert.
Kennel Clubs’ Role in Breed Naming and Recognition
While breed names often evolve from historical or regional influences, kennel clubs have the final say in the official recognition of dog breeds. These organizations maintain detailed records on breed standards and guidelines for breeding practices, ensuring that the dog breeds meet certain characteristics before being officially recognized.
For instance, the AKC plays a major role in the recognition and naming of breeds in the United States. The process involves a formal application from breeders who must provide evidence that their breed is distinct and meets the criteria set out by the club. Once the application is accepted, the breed is granted recognition, and the breed standard is established.
In many cases, breed names are subject to change or modification as new information becomes available or as breeders discover new ways to describe the breed. For example, the American Pit Bull Terrier was once simply referred to as a “Pit Bull,” but over time, its official name has been refined and standardized.
Why Dog Breeds Are Named the Way They Are
There are several reasons why dog breeds receive their names, and it is often a combination of historical, functional, and geographical factors. Dog names help to communicate important information about the breed’s origin, purpose, and characteristics. These names serve as a link to the past, providing insight into the dog’s history and the work it was originally bred for.
For breeders, naming a dog breed is important because it helps distinguish one breed from another. Accurate naming ensures that there is no confusion between similar breeds, and it provides a way for people to recognize specific traits or characteristics that are associated with each breed. For example, the name Labrador Retriever immediately suggests a breed that is good at retrieving game from water, while German Shepherd implies a breed developed for herding sheep.
The Changing Nature of Breed Names
It is also worth noting that breed names can evolve over time. In some cases, dogs may have been known by different names before the official recognition process. For example, the Australian Terrier was once referred to as the “Broken-Haired Terrier,” and the Cocker Spaniel was once a type of Spaniel dog that had different regional names in the UK and the United States.
Breed names can change in response to new discoveries or better understanding of the breed’s history. In recent years, there has also been an increasing trend toward modifying breed names to reflect more politically correct or neutral terms. For example, the term Pit Bull has been largely replaced with more specific breed names like American Pit Bull Terrier or American Bully in an effort to clarify the differences between similar breeds and to reduce stigma.
Conclusion: The Importance of Dog Breed Names
Naming dog breeds is not a simple process; it is a reflection of history, geography, purpose, and sometimes individual personalities. These names have meaning, and they are often carefully chosen to provide insight into the breed’s origins and characteristics. While kennel clubs and breed standards play a central role in recognizing and naming dog breeds, the names themselves are deeply rooted in tradition and cultural influences.
As we continue to learn more about dog breeds and their origins, the names we assign to these animals will continue to evolve. Whether through historical legacy, physical traits, or the contributions of individuals, dog breed names help us understand the rich history of these animals and the important roles they play in our lives.