I love dogs. I have my own sassy rescue at home who is lap dog with attitude, but I have also loved hounds, shepherds, and a variety of other lovely canines in my life.
Presumably, when the world was a bit larger (or less connected), the range of dog breeds available to a Regency household tended to be a bit smaller. I found a reference from 1829 which gives an overview of dogs in the U.K.:
Biographical Sketches and Authentic Anecdotes of Dogs … Also a historical introduction, and a copious appendix on the breeding, feeding, training, diseases, and medical treatment of dogs; together with a treatise on the Game Laws of Great Britain (1829).
This book goes in to the different breeds with a bit of detail, with a few illustrations sprinkled throughout, as well as some general information about feeding, training, and game laws.
The Complete Dog Fancier, Or General History of Dogs … Including Their Properties; Disorders Peculiar to Them, with the Best Method of Cure, Etc (1824) offers a similar list of common UK dogs as well as some recipes for various ailments.
Both books contain a variety of anecdotes about dogs, their heroism, companionship, and exploits.
OMGoodness, I want these books. Althea’s Promise has a cosseted little Pug in it.