In the early 20th century, dog breeding was often driven by the functional roles that dogs played, such as herding, hunting, guarding, or companionship.
The popularity of certain breeds has fluctuated over time, driven by factors like media exposure, celebrity ownership, and societal trends.
As society evolved, the roles of dogs changed, leading to the creation of specialized breeds. For example, working breeds became more focused on specific tasks, such as search and rescue, therapy, or assistance work.
Kennel clubs and breed organizations played a significant role in defining and refining appearance standards for each breed. This led to the establishment of distinct physical characteristics for various breeds.
Over time, there has been an increased emphasis on the health and well-being of dogs. Breeding practices have shifted to prioritize the reduction of genetic disorders and hereditary conditions within certain breeds.
Increased global communication and transportation facilitated the exchange of breeding stock between different regions, leading to a degree of internationalization of certain breeds.
Some breeds that were relatively unknown in 1915 gained recognition and popularity by 2015. This could be due to deliberate breeding programs or the discovery of previously unnoticed local breeds.
Advances in genetic testing and understanding have allowed breeders to make more informed decisions about mating pairs, reducing the likelihood of passing on genetic disorders.