Group 9 Dogs: FCI Classification Of Breeds

The International Cynological Federation (FCI) is responsible for determining the standards of each dog breed and classifying them according to their characteristics. Therefore, in this article we will tell  which are the dogs in group 9,  which include companion animals, and which have the largest number of sections (11) among the groups.

Dogs from group 9: Individuals

Each of the following breeds has its own section, due to its particular characteristics, which are not shared with the others:

• Poodle
• Chinese Crested Dog (hairless)
• Chihuahua
• Continental Dwarf Spaniel of Company
• Kromfohrlander

Dogs of group 9: Bichons and similar

There are 6 races grouped in this section, including:

1. Maltese Bichon

This breed arose on the island of Malta, located in the Mediterranean Sea, and its development was sponsored by Italy. This breed is very intelligent, affectionate, friendly, vivacious and needs to be socialized from the start. Despite its size, the Maltese Bichon is a great home protector.

He adapts well to apartment life in the city and gets along very well with older children (but doesn’t get along well with babies). He needs to exercise daily and should be combed every day as his fur (white or ivory) is very long.

2. Coton de Tulear

This dog of miniature size originates from the south of Madagascar, more precisely from the province of Toliara. Its name is partly due to its origin and partly to the fact  that its fur is cotton-like, very soft. It is usually white in color (but there are some Cotons de Tulear with black or copper spots). They have large eyes, short legs and a wavy tail.

Dogs in group 9: Small size Belgians

In this section there are 3 races, the best known being:

1. Belgian Griffon

He appeared in Brussels, thanks to the cross between a Pug, Miniature Schnauzer one a Yorkshire Terrier and an Affenpinscher at the end of the 19th century  Weighs up to 5 kg, has a round head, the muzzle is short with mustache and beard abundant, the eyes are large and the ears half-droopy. The fur is stiff and may be black; black and red; and black and red. It is a sweet pet, easy to train, affectionate and excellent company. He doesn’t get along very well with children.

Dogs of group 9: Tibetans

The 4 breeds in this section are Chinese. Among them, we present two:

1. Lhasa Apso

Its main feature is a lion’s mane. The Lhasa Apso is one of the oldest breeds in the world and is considered a symbol of luck in China. It has a small size, abundant fur, a fringe falling into the eyes and a coat the color of sand, honey, white, gray and black. He is stubborn, alert, playful and suspicious in the presence of strangers.

2. Shih Tzu

He is the beloved guardian of the house in China and is linked to the Buddhist religion. The Shih Tzu also looks like a lion, due to the mane it displays. It has a short snout, large eyes, hanging ears and a coat of different colors,  including white, brown, gold, gray and black. He walks elegantly, is affectionate, sociable and loyal.

Dogs of group 9: Spanish Companion Spaniel

The two races in this section are:

1. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
2. King Charles Spaniel

Dogs of group 9: Japanese and Pekinese Spaniels

In this section there are two races:

1. Pekingese
2. Japanese Spaniel

Dogs of group 9: Small Molossoids

In this section there are 3 races, including:

1. Boston Terrier

Originally from the United States of America, the Boston Terrier is a dog that responds very well to training. He is friendly, if socialized as a puppy. Small, it is cheerful and easy to care for, due to its short fur, and is suitable for living in the city. As for its appearance, it  has a flat muzzle, small ears, large eyes, black, brindle or black fur with white spots. 

2. French Bulldog

It was established as a new breed in the 19th century and reached high popularity in England and the United States. Small, compact and has a robust bearing; its ears are straight as a bat’s and its tail is short. In addition, it has some folds on its face and its colors can vary from fawn, brindle or completely brown, white or black.