Which two dog breeds sailed the Mayflower with pilgrims?

The mastiff. (AKC)

Where there are people, there are sure to be dogs. "Research confirms that pilgrims weren’t the only passengers aboard the Mayflower," states the American Kennel Club. "Turns out man’s best friend also made the transatlantic voyage from Southampton, England to Plymouth, MA in 1620."

So which are the only two breeds -- of the 175 purbred breeds recognized by the American Kennel Club -- to have sailed to the new world with pilgrims aboard the historic Mayflower? That would be the Mastiff and the English Springer Spaniel.

Here is how the AKC describes the two breeds:

The Mastiff is one of the biggest dogs recognized by the American Kennel Club – some can even top 200 pounds. The breed is a powerful and courageous, yet gentle and loyal companion. Mastiffs were raised in Britain for more than 2,000 years and used as hunting dogs by nobility and watchdogs. They like to be around people and bond closely with their owners. Due to his large size and need for space, a Mastiff is best suited for country or suburban life and requires light exercise and minimal grooming.

The English Springer Spaniel is a fun-loving dog adaptable to city or country life. The word “Springer” comes from the breed’s inherent desire to hunt. Springers are prized for their eagerness and ability to find and scare up a large variety of game birds as well as rabbits. In the filed, they are light, lean and fast. The breed is recognized for his ability to keep going and going under adverse hunting conditions, which is partly due to his medium-sized, powerful body. Cheerful and affectionate, Springers love their families and like to stick close to their owners. They make excellent house pets, but require daily exercise and need regular brushing and trimming to keep their coats neat and free of mats.

-- The American Kennel Club

English Springer Spaniel. (AKC)