Some dogs fit into a specific breed at first glance, yet other mixed breed dogs stand out and leave us scratching our heads. We search for certain markings to help us identify the breed, but sometimes we are still left wondering, "what breed is our dog?"
How Can You Determine the Breed Without DNA Testing?
Certain traits and behaviors will help you identify your breed. When you first get your dog, whether he is a puppy or an older dog, pay close attention to the following items for several weeks before trying to determine his breed:
- How often he likes to go outside, and the duration of time he spends outdoors versus indoors
- What triggers him to bark
- When he wags his tail, and when hair stands up on his back
- How well he gets along with other people and animals
- How determined he is to escape from closed areas (crates, gates, fences, etc.)
Next, look at his color(s) — eyes, fur and tail can help you determine what breed or mix of breeds he might be exhibiting. Using the combination of his markings and behaviors, you can usually narrow his breed possibilities to under five options. You may be able to figure out your dog's breed by consulting the American Kennel Club or discussing the behaviors and markings you notice with your veterinarian.
Is DNA Testing Necessary?
Although there are mixed reviews on the reliability of DNA testing for dogs, according to Fortune, it is an option for dog owners who really can't figure out what type of dog they have through behavior and physical markings. A reason some pet owners really feel the need to know their dog's breed is that health problems related to certain breeds need to be watched for early on for best treatment. Knowing the breed can also be helpful for learning the best way to train your dog. Some methods of training work better for some breeds than others.
Tasty Tips
What If You Never Find Out?
In the end, having a few possible ideas of your dog's bloodline can help you determine how big he might get, how much exercise he should get, and what types of tricks or special agility training he may do well with. However, it is possible that you will never be able to figure out what breed your dog is — and that's okay!
One thing to keep in mind is that even within the same breed (and even the same litter), dogs can develop their own personalities and behaviors that may not even be typical for their breed. The environment a dog is raised in can impact his behaviors greatly — so even if you learn his breed and try to cater to best practices with that breed, you may have to try new things or even get the help of a professional trainer to help your dog overcome certain behaviors that resulted from his environment. However, there is one thing that can be said of all breeds, they're all worth your love. So, even if you are never able to quite narrow down the origins of his breed, know that he is now your family, and that's a lineage that you can certainly trace.
Related products
Hill's Science Diet Adult Small & Mini Savory Stew Can Variety Pack Dog Food
A delicious complement to the nutrition of Science Diet Small & Mini dog food
Hill's Science Diet Adult Small & Mini Savory Stew with Chicken & Vegetables Dog Food
A delicious complement to the nutrition of Science Diet Small & Mini dog food
Hill's Science Diet Perfect Digestion Small Bites Chicken, Brown Rice & Whole Oats Recipe Dog Food
Science Diet's breakthrough nutrition supports ultimate digestive well-being & healthy microbiome. Delicious food in a small bite size
Hill's Science Diet Adult Sensitive Stomach & Skin Pollock Meal & Insect Recipe Dog Food
Hill's Science Diet Sensitive Stomach & Skin dry dog food is gentle on stomachs while nourishing skin & promoting a lustrous coat.
Hill's Science Diet Adult 7+ Chicken Meal, Barley & Rice Recipe Dog Food
Supports energy level and beautiful coat in mature dogs
Hill's Science Diet Adult Small & Mini Chicken & Brown Rice Recipe Dog Food
For the faster metabolism of Small & Mini dogs
Hill's Science Diet Adult Small & Mini Beef & Barley Entrée Dog Food
Beef & Barley recipe with precisely balanced nutrition to keep adult dogs active and healthy.
Hill's Science Diet Adult Light Large Breed Chicken Meal & Barley Recipe Dog Food
Fewer calories for less active large breed dogs
Hill's Science Diet Adult 7+ Healthy Cuisine Roasted Chicken, Carrots & Spinach Stew Dog Food
Delicious roasted chicken paired with tender vegetables in a succulent stew
Hill's Science Diet Adult Light Chicken Meal & Barley Recipe Dog Food
Fewer calories for less active dogs
Hill's Science Diet Adult Sensitive Stomach & Skin Tender Chicken & Vegetable Stew Dog Food
Supports digestive health, nourishes skin and promotes a lustrous coat
Hill's Science Diet Adult Sensitive Stomach & Skin Small & Mini Chicken Recipe Dog Food
Hill's Science Diet Sensitive Stomach & Skin Small & Mini dry dog food is tailored nutrition for Small & Mini dogs while being gentle on stomachs. Nourishes skin & promotes a lustrous coat.
Hill's Science Diet Adult 6+ Large Breed Chicken Meal, Barley & Rice Recipe Dog Food
Supports energy & beautiful coat. Helps keep immune system, joints, heart & kidneys healthy
Hill's Science Diet Puppy Lamb Meal & Brown Rice Recipe
Vital nutrients to support 5 essential building blocks for lifelong health
Hill's Science Diet Adult Perfect Weight Chicken & Vegetable Entrée Dog Food
Over 70% of dogs lost weight within 10 weeks when fed this nutrition
Hill's Science Diet Puppy Sensitive Stomach & Skin Salmon & Vegetable Stew
Gentle on stomachs while nourishing skin & supporting development in growing puppies
Hill's Science Diet Adult 7+ Small Paws Chicken & Barley Entrée Dog Food
A delicious complement to the nutrition of Science Diet Small Paws 7+ dry dog food
Hill's Science Diet Adult 7+ Turkey & Barley Entrée Dog Food
Turkey & Barley recipe with precisely balanced nutrition to keep dogs active and healthy
Hill's Science Diet Adult Oral Care Small & Mini Chicken, Rice & Barley Recipe Dog Food
Clinically proven kibble technology to reduce plaque & tartar build-up, specially designed for small & mini dogs
Hill's Science Diet Puppy Small Bites Chicken & Brown Rice Recipe
Vital nutrients to support 5 essential building blocks for lifelong health
Related articles
How to Stop Dog Fence Fighting
Learn what's going on when dogs engage in outdoor "fence fighting", consistently barking & acting aggressive toward one another, and how to help stop it.
Is Chocolate Bad for My Dog? (& What to Do If They Eat It)
Learn the the dangers of feeding your dog chocolate, which types are most dangerous, and what to do if you discover that they have consumed chocolate.
Laryngeal Paralysis in Dogs
Learn all about laryngeal paralysis in dogs, including types of the condition, signs & symptoms, risk factors, how it's diagnosed and treatment options.
Cyanosis & Blue Skin in Dogs: Symptoms, Treatment & More
Cyanosis in dogs can be a serious condition, with symptoms like blue skin needing emergency treatment. Learn what to do if your dog shows signs like this.
Can Dogs Eat Turkey?
Is turkey meat safe for dogs? Learn whether it's OK to feed your dog turkey and important info about certain spices, turkey skin & turkey bones.
Enlarged Prostate in Dogs: Managing Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia
Signs of an enlarged prostate in dogs (benign prostatic hyperplasia) aren't easy to spot, so learn more about symptoms, treatments & prevention options.
My Dog Ate Raw Chicken: What Should I Do?
My Dog Ate Raw Chicken: What Should I Do?
Special Diet Needs for Large & Giant-Breed Puppies
Large and giant breed puppies have different nutritional needs than other dogs. Learn how to provide the special care they need to grow up big and strong.
Safety Tips for Walking Dogs at Night
Learn helpful safety tips for walking your dog at night, including how to stay visible and special considerations to keep in mind when walking after dark.
What to Expect at Your Puppy's 6-Month Health Check
Every puppy should get a health check-up at six months by a veterinarian to make sure he is healthy. Learn what to expect at your puppy's health check.
What to Feed Your Pregnant or Nursing Dog
Proper nutrition for your pregnant or nursing dog is vital to her and her puppy's health. Learn what you should do provide her with the proper nutrients.
Holiday Foods to Avoid Giving Your Dog
Discover what holiday foods to avoid feeding your dog, such as chocolate and nuts, and copy down these homemade holiday dog treat recipes to share with him
Dog Nipping & Puppy Play Biting
Discover why dog nipping is such a common behavior, even among the best behaved pups, as well as how to get your puppy to stop nipping.
What to Expect When Adopting a Three-Legged Pet
Learn common concerns from pet parents considering adopting a three-legged pet, including info about mobility, preparing your home, & long-term care.
Is Your Dog Ready for Obedience School?
Learn what kind of training to expect from an obedience school and whether or not it is a good idea for your dog, no matter his age.
Starting a Training Schedule with Your Puppy
Learn the benefits of starting to train your puppy at an early age, preventing a wide variety of problems and promoting good behavior.
Common Dog Behaviors Explained & the Meaning Behind Their Moods
Learn what types of dog behavior mean for your best buddy's health and well-being. Once you notice his signals and moods, you'll know how to help him.
Dog Carrier Bags: What You Need to Know
Discover helpful tips for choosing the right dog carrier bag or purse for your tiny pup, including safety features to look for & when a dog purse is ideal.
Recognizing and Managing Dog Dementia
Learn the common signs of dog dementia & canine cognitive dysfunction, how it is diagnosed and possible treatments that can be taken to manage the disease.
How to Choose the Right Size & Type of Dog Crate
Deciding the best crate size isn't always straightforward. Learn factors to consider when choosing the size & type to get, including your dog's age & size.
Put your dog on a diet without them knowing
Our low calorie formula helps you control your dog's weight. It's packed with high-quality protein for building lean muscles, and made with purposeful ingredients for a flavorful, nutritious meal. Clinically proven antioxidants, Vitamin C+E, help promote a healthy immune system.
Put your dog on a diet without them knowing
Our low calorie formula helps you control your dog's weight. It's packed with high-quality protein for building lean muscles, and made with purposeful ingredients for a flavorful, nutritious meal. Clinically proven antioxidants, Vitamin C+E, help promote a healthy immune system.