With what letter should we capitalize dog breeds?

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With what letter should we capitalize dog breeds? - briefly
Dog breeds should be capitalized based on the rules of the specific style guide being followed. Generally, many style guides recommend capitalizing the names of specific breeds, such as Labrador Retriever or German Shepherd.

With what letter should we capitalize dog breeds? - in detail
Capitalization of dog breeds is a topic that often sparks debate among writers, breeders, and enthusiasts. Understanding the correct capitalization rules is essential for maintaining consistency and professionalism in written communication. The general rule is that dog breeds should be capitalized when they are proper nouns, which means they are specific names of breeds. This includes both the breed name and any specific variety within that breed.
For example, the breed name &#34;German Shepherd&#34; should be capitalized because it is a specific breed. Similarly, if you are referring to a specific variety within a breed, such as &#34;Labrador Retriever&#34; or &#34;Beagle,&#34; both the breed name and the variety should be capitalized. This rule applies to all recognized breeds, regardless of their origin or popularity.
However, there are exceptions to this rule. When referring to a group of dogs in a general sense, without specifying a particular breed, the term should not be capitalized. For instance, writing &#34;labradors&#34; in a general sense, without specifying &#34;Labrador Retrievers,&#34; would not require capitalization. Similarly, when using breed names as common nouns, they should not be capitalized. For example, &#34;She has a strong preference for shepherds&#34; would not require capitalization because &#34;shepherds&#34; is used in a general sense.
It is also important to note that some breed names may include descriptive terms that are not part of the official breed name. In such cases, only the official breed name should be capitalized. For example, in the phrase &#34;black Labrador Retriever,&#34; only &#34;Labrador Retriever&#34; should be capitalized, as &#34;black&#34; is a descriptive term and not part of the official breed name.
In summary, dog breeds should be capitalized when they are specific names of breeds or varieties within breeds. This rule helps maintain clarity and consistency in written communication. By following these guidelines, writers can ensure that their work is accurate and professional. Additionally, consulting style guides or breed-specific resources can provide further clarification on capitalization rules for specific breeds.