There are over 350 dog breeds in the world, 195 of which are officially recognized by the American Kennel Club. And as a dog enthusiast I’d like to share some of my favorite breeds with you. But first, let me give you a brief history of the dog, or scientifically knows as Canis Lupus Familiaris or Canines.

The dog, as many know, is a descendant of the wolf. The divergence from the species class of, Canis Lupus (The Wolf) is thought to have occurred between 30,000-40,000 years ago. The oldest remains known are 31,700 years old and were found in Belgium. Dogs were also thought to be the first animal to be domesticated somewhere between 14,000-30,000 years ago in Northern Eurasia. The theory is that dogs may have become accustomed to humans searching for food scraps outside of cave dwellings and other primitive lodgings. And perhaps befriended some of our kinder caveman ancestors who gained their trust through intentionally sharing food.

The dogs ability as a hunter and guard were of great value to the people of those harsh times. The social companionship was an added bonus but not a necessity. Unlike today’s times with the many, “Emotional Support” animals we have.

Dogs and specific dog breeds/breeding became popular due to dog shows in England staring in the mid 1800’s. From there many new dog breeds with specifically intended characteristics began being created. Dogs also have the greatest variety of any species, as stated before with over 350 different kinds of breeds.

To begin my series of dog breeds I’m going to start with a powerful and noble breed with a very rich history: The Cane Corso- Guard Dog, War Dog, Companion.