The Scent hounds; Beagles, Bloodhound, Basset hound, Foxhound, Hamiltonstovare, were created to hunt by scent. They were actually bred from Mastiffs but the temperament was mellowed which allowed easier control when hunting (and also that some of the prey was left). The dogs were predominately medium sized with a longer body and heavy head, they were also noted for their ‘singing' howl. The breed also developed long ears and were selected for good behaviour as they were kept and hunted in packs. (As we all know to live in a group situation you need to be able to get along). The dogs needed to be independent as they had to hunt and track without the master present. This resulted in breeds that are easy going and tolerant, some breeds needed variations like short legs, wiry coats or speed but all are versatile and love to catch a scent. With scent hounds it is always good to watch what you use for cleaning and such as they are always ‘nose down and tail up.'

Gun dogs are always ready, willing and able; they include breeds such as Poodle, Maltese, Bichon Frise, Pointers, Dalmatian, Weimaraner, Golden Retriever, Cocker Spaniel and more. The gundogs are diverse in both form and skill these dogs were used to retrieve animals, help in hunting and flush out quarry. They can be grouped loosely into four categories, the pointers, the land retrievers, the shaggy water dogs and the setters/spaniels. The pointers are closely linked to the scent hounds they are mostly smooth coated with a hound body and strong desire to hunt, the main difference to scent hounds is their strong desire to please. Whilst the body type changed with the differing roles and needs the desire to please was always prominent. The Land retrievers are slightly more mastiff like with a heavier body and wide head. The water dogs generally had a shaggy coat that was cut so as to stop the problems of excess weight when wet; the areas not clipped were left to cover areas to prevent pneumonia and arthritis. These clips can still be seen today e.g. Poodle, Portuguese Water Dog. These dogs were created to retrieve from the water and flush out quarry along the water edge. The setters/spaniels are dogs that coat were fringed on the ears, legs and tail and have a passion for the hunt. The setters also had a style of a slow crouch and creep on a scent. Miniature varieties were always around and generally were for pampering! The Gun dogs are among the most diverse in body type and purpose but they all love to please, a trait that has endured strongly to this day!