How many breeds of cats and dogs are there in total? - briefly
There are approximately 73 recognized cat breeds and over 360 recognized dog breeds worldwide. The exact number can vary depending on the organization or registry, but these figures provide a general overview.
How many breeds of cats and dogs are there in total? - in detail
Determining the exact number of cat and dog breeds can be complex due to varying recognition standards among different kennel clubs and cat associations worldwide. However, a comprehensive overview can be provided by examining the registries of major organizations.
For dogs, the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI), which is one of the largest and most recognized international kennel clubs, recognizes approximately 350 breeds. The American Kennel Club (AKC), another prominent organization, recognizes around 200 breeds. The Kennel Club in the United Kingdom recognizes about 220 breeds. These numbers can vary slightly due to differences in breed recognition criteria and the inclusion of new breeds over time.
Cat breeds are similarly diverse, with the Fédération Internationale Féline (FIFé) recognizing around 44 breeds. The Cat Fanciers' Association (CFA) in the United States recognizes approximately 45 breeds, while the Governing Council of the Cat Fancy (GCCF) in the UK recognizes about 43 breeds. These organizations periodically review and update their lists, which can lead to fluctuations in the recognized number of breeds.
It is important to note that some breeds may be recognized by one organization but not by another. For instance, mixed breeds or designer breeds, such as the Labradoodle or the Cockapoo, are often not recognized by traditional kennel clubs but are gaining popularity among pet owners. Additionally, some breeds may be recognized regionally but not internationally, further complicating the total count.
In summary, while the exact number of cat and dog breeds can vary, a reasonable estimate based on major kennel clubs and cat associations suggests that there are approximately 350 recognized dog breeds and around 44 recognized cat breeds. These numbers are subject to change as new breeds are developed and recognized, and existing breeds may be reclassified or removed from registries.