Glossary

Non-Sporting Group

The AKC group for breeds that fit no other group, a mix of different sizes, coats and histories such as the Poodle, Bulldog and Dalmatian.

Also called: non-sporting dogs, non sporting group, AKC non-sporting group

The Non-Sporting Group is the most varied AKC group. Its breeds do not share one original job, so it works as a home for dogs that fit nowhere else. It includes the Poodle in its standard and miniature sizes, the Bulldog, the French Bulldog, the Dalmatian, the Chow Chow, the Bichon Frise and the Shiba Inu.

Sizes, coats and temperaments range widely, so the group says little about what living with one of these dogs is like. The name is also misleading, because many of these breeds once had jobs, for example the Poodle as a water retriever.

It is one of seven groups, and the group winner can advance to Best in Show. Breed lists shift over time, and other registries may place the same breed in another group.

Last reviewed November 8, 2026

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Related terms

Sporting Group The AKC group of breeds developed to help hunters find and retrieve game birds, including retrievers, spaniels, pointers and setters. Hound Group The AKC group of breeds developed to hunt by scent or by sight, from the Beagle and Bloodhound to the Greyhound and Whippet. Working Group The AKC group of larger breeds developed for jobs such as guarding, pulling sleds or carts and rescue work, including the Boxer, Rottweiler and Siberian Husky. Terrier Group The AKC group of breeds developed to hunt and kill vermin such as rats, foxes and badgers, usually small to medium, bold and energetic.