If you’ve been thinking about welcoming a new dog into your home then you’re in good company – Royal Kennel Club (the new name for the UK Kennel Club) stats show that the number of people looking for puppies has surged to record levels.
Dogs come in all shapes, colours and sizes - there are 221 different pedigree dogs recognised by breeders in the UK, from Affenpinscher to Yorkshire Terrier (there are sadly no dog breeds starting with the letter ‘z’!).
So there’s plenty of thinking to do before you select your family’s latest four-legged addition – whether you want a large dog, family-friendly dog, or an easy to train dog.
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There is even scientific research to guide you, in particular psychologist Stanley Coren’s groundbreaking book The Intelligence of Dogs.
Choosing the right breed is absolutely essential – for example opting for a small dog if you don’t have much room at home, or a hypoallergenic dog if you suffer from allergies.
All types of dog also have a geographical history, having a country where they were first bred and developed – before spreading across the world and being recognised by kennel clubs.
Here are 13 breeds of dog that have American heritage.
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1. American Cocker Spaniel
Similar to the English Cocker Spaniel, with whom it shares its bloodline, the American Cocker Spaniel is a breed of sporting dog. The first Spaniels came to the USA on the Mayflower in 1620 and selective breeding since then has created a dog with smaller ears, a shorter muzzle, and a more dome-shaped head than their English cousins. | Getty Images for Westminster Ken
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2. Chesapeake Bay Retriever
Two dogs rescued from a shipwreck in Maryland in 1807 are the descendents of the modern Chesapeake Bay Retrievers. Called Sailor and Canton, they bred with local dogs and the rest is history. | Getty Images
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3. Australian Shephed
Despite the name, the Australian Shepherd doesn't actually come from Down Under. It was developed in California in the 19th century as a working dog in the vast ranches of the Wild West. | Getty Images
4. American Water Spaniel
First bred in the early 19th century in Wisconsin, the American Water Spaniel is now Wisconsin's state dog. It was used by hunters in the area around the Fox River to work both on land and water. | Canva/Getty Images