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Dog Breed List: The Complete A-Z Dog Breed List

As the common phrase says, “Every dog is a man’s best friend” refers to the millennia-long history of close relationships including loyalty, friendship, and companionship with humans. Having a companion affiliate responsibility other than happiness.

Knowing them better aside from their favorite food and leisure includes their place of origin, their development, and what makes them unique from other dog breeds. It further broadens the fur parents’ knowledge on why do their dogs behave in such a way.

Let’s take a look at different home-friendly dog breeds, and how their genetics affect their socialization skills.


Afghan Hound

is a dog hound that is recognizable for its thick silky fur with an exotic face that originated in the cold mountains of Afghanistan. They are considered one of the oldest dog breeds that were initially bred for hunting purposes.

This dog is a fast tracker that can run up to 40 miles per hour. They can be aloof but also be reticent and stubborn making them difficult to educate.


Ainu

Ainu dogs breed
Ainu dog breed

also known as Hokkaido dog in which the same place the breed was originated in Japan. They are unique for their great sense of alertness and direction. These dogs are very affectionate to their owners and tend to be vigilant with strangers due to their protective behavior.

Its distinctive feature is its pointed ears and upturned tail with a double coat that should be combed regularly.


Airedale Terrier

is the largest of all terrier breeds which made them known as “The King of Terriers”. This breed is originated in Yorkshire, England that can grow up to 23 inches in height. They are distinctive for their wiry coat with black markings.

Expert Tip: They are incredibly smart and adaptable but can require a lot of attention during training due to their independent and stubborn character. They are ideal for a hypoallergenic home environment as they rarely shed in a year and only require occasional brushing.


Alaskan Husky

The Alaskan Husky is an Arctic working dog that originated in Alaska where they were bred for sled-pulling and sled-racing. These dogs have a top speed of 30 miles per hour with their strong stamina.

They are a close relative of Siberian Husky resembling its strength and affectionate behavior, needing a lot of attention from its owner, and Alaskan Malamute with their intelligence, friendly nature, and athletic body that can burn 10,000 calories in a sled race.


American Bulldog

This athletic working bulldog is a descendant of the English bulldog which is believed to originate in the United States as early as the 17th century. With their strong and long legs, they can run up to 15 miles per hour and can jump over barriers that are 6 feet off the ground.

They are first kept on farms across the country because of their ability to scare off predators and other animals. The American bulldog can grow up to 20-28 inches tall but requires a lot of patience while training them.

These loyal and sweet dogs can be reserved and stubborn as they may need multiple training sessions to overcome difficult traits.


Bassador

Bassador dog breed
Bassador dog breed

Bassador is a hybrid mixed dog breed and the fusion between the Basset Hound and Labrador Retriever. They are also known as Basset Lab, Basador, and Bassetdor. This dog was first originated in Canada to assist fishermen. However, due to exorbitant tax rates, the Bassador nearly died out.

Fortunately, the Bassador was imported to England and America and started gaining popularity as a hunting companion and retriever. It is distinctive for its huge droopy ears, elongated body, wrinkled brow, and sorrowful-looking eyes.


Bavarian Mountain Hound

This dog breed was the result of mixing a Hanoverian Scenthound and Red Mountain Scenthound originated in Germany. They have harsh and dense coats which makes them heavy shedders that require regular brushing.

Expert Tip: This breed is very intelligent, reserved to strangers, and loyal to its owners. They make a good hunting partner as their acute nose smells scents of prey that have been shot down.


Beagle

Beagles have become popular due to their active companionship and excellent hunting skills. These pups are also known as happy-go-lucky, funny, and expressive dogs. They were bred to hunt in packs, so they enjoy any company that is light and easygoing. Beagles are recognized for their hazel eyes and houndy ears set low on their broadhead.

The origins of beagles can be traced back to the 16th century in Great Britain when affluent Englishmen frequently kept hound packs.


Bernedoodle

originating from Switzerland. This hybrid was first bred to create a dog similar to the Bernese Mountain dog that would have a longer lifespan. This dog is the result of the cross-breeding of its parents, a loyal Bernese Mountain Dog, and a clever goofy poodle.

Bernedoodle is also an ideal pet for fur parents with allergies as it’s classified from low to non-shedding coat.


Bichon Frise

Bichon Frise
Bichon Frise

Because of its tremendous desire to entertain and offer smiles to its family and friends, this dog has been dubbed the clown dog throughout history. The Bichon Frise breed was first mentioned in the 14th century, when French merchants brought dogs back from Tenerife, one of the Canary Islands.

With its cream-white coat, it’s no surprise that this dog is hypoallergenic that is velvety and soft to touch.


Canaan Dog

from its place of origin, the Canaan dog is also Israel’s national dog. Many people believe that this breed was present in biblical times that the Hebrews used as a sentry, messenger, and assistant dog to herd and guard their flocks.

Expert Tip: This canine is extremely alert, vigilant, and territorial that is obedient to its owner and distant from strangers.


Chihuahua

The chihuahua is a breed popular for its charismatic personality, playful behavior. Named after the largest state in Mexico, Chihuahuas are surprisingly recognized for their small physique. This dog is suspicious of strangers, and may not form a good bond with everyone it meets.

When treated with respect, Chihuahuas are loyal, friendly, and makes good family pet.


Chow Chow

The Chow Chow is a dog breed that originated in Northern China. It is one of the oldest dog breeds with a lineage that is hundred of years old. Their distinctive feature includes a lion’s mane ruff around the head and shoulders, a blue-black tongue, and a deep set of almond eyes.

These dogs can be violent at times, and they can be extremely distrustful of strangers. They are also decision-makers as they think on their own so interfering with their decisions may result in problematic behaviors.


Collie

Collie dog breed
Collie dog breed

Collies are herding dogs that originated in Northern England and Scotland popularized by Queen Victoria in the 19th century. They are athletic and fond of children which makes them an incredible family pet. They are also good-natured and friendly even with people outside the family circle.

Collies are usually quiet if supplied with constant companionship, but if left alone for hours, they can bark excessively. They can stand up to 26 inches tall and can be easily trained because of their intelligence.


Corkie

The corkie is a cross-breed between the American Cocker Spaniel and the Yorkshire Terrier. These dogs can make a wonderful family dog, and can easily get along with anyone who treats them gently. However, they are particularly sensitive dogs that can develop separation anxiety when left alone for long periods.

Expert Tip: With its people-pleasing personality, it can easily be trained with constant treats and praise. Contrastingly, they can also be lazy if not given enough exercise.


Dalmatian

The dalmatian dogs have been popularized for their spotted coat and athletic muscular built. These purebred dogs originated in Croatia and further gained their fame through the well-known film, The 101 Dalmatians. If you’re thinking about getting a Dalmatian, keep in mind that the breed is not just energetic but also clever.

They need early teaching to set norms for behavior, otherwise, they will decide that it is their responsibility to run the show. Dalmatians can be abrasive, so hard and regular training is required.


Dobermann Pinscher

also known as doberman pinscher. The Dobermann is considered as one of the noblemen of the dog world with its sturdy physique along with its extreme intelligence. Because of its protective behavior, it is often used as a guard dog.

Even while they are affectionate, these dogs are also quite independent and domineering, which could cause issues if you are a first-time dog owner.


English Setter

These dogs were first developed in the United Kingdom between 400 and 500 years ago. The English setters were trained to “set” or crouch low when hunting for birds. They are thought to have been bred by crossing Spanish Pointers with Water Spaniels and Springer Spaniels.

English Setters are still excellent hunting dogs, but they can also be a fantastic addition to a family. They are incredibly affectionate, playful, and loving. This breed is also quite active and will require a home where they can get enough exercise. This breed may become a nuisance barker if not properly trained.

English Setters are more difficult to train than other breeds. English Setters are a breed of dog that is generally healthy.


Eskimo Dog

Eskimo Dog
Eskimo Dog

This companion dog was originally first bred in Germany. They are ideal for first-time dog owners as they are among the easiest dog breeds to train. Most Eskimos are prone to eye problems as they can develop juvenile cataracts at the age of 6.

This breed sheds a lot and requires at least two to three times grooming each week to prevent their coat from becoming matted.


Estrela Mountain Dog

This purebred canine comes from the Estrela Mountain of Portugal. They are also known for the names such as Portuguese Shepherd and Cao da Serra da Estrela. Because they are highly loyal to their masters and distrustful of strangers, these huge, nimble canines make ideal security dogs.

Expert Tip: The Estrela Mountain Dog, like most other clever breeds, maybe stubborn. The most important aspect of their training should always be consistency.

Their modest prey drive prevents them from getting along with small animals like cats.


Fila Brasileiro

The Fila Brasileiro is a working dog that dates back hundreds of years in Brazil. These massive dogs can be terrifying, supporting the fact that it was banned in several countries. It is the epitome of the famous Brazilian phrase, “Faithful as a Fila”.

This breed not only sheds, but also drools a lot, despite its short fur. It can also induce gas, particularly if they are not fed with their raw designated diet.


Fox Terrier

During fox hunts, the Fox Terrier was initially designed to flush foxes out of their hiding spots. Fox terriers originated in 19th-century England, where they were used in landed gentry fox hunts. Fox terriers are energetic and persistent dogs that were bred to chase rodents and go to the ground when necessary.

Wire and smooth fox terriers are also members of the breed. Despite their differences in appearance, they have comparable profiles, dispositions, and innate habits. With a weight of roughly 18 pounds and a height of 15 inches, this English breed is great for the house, and its tough temperament makes it suitable for the outdoors as well.


French Bulldog

These dogs are a lot of fun to be around. They “speak” to their owners with a range of sounds, yet they are normally not bothersome and are reputed to be peaceful dogs. Because French Bulldogs are prone to a variety of health problems, they may require more veterinarian care than other breeds.


German Shepherd

The German Shepherd was created in the late 1800s in Germany. The German Shepherd was developed by breeding the most intelligent, responsive, and obedient indigenous shepherd dogs in Germany. This breed was in charge of herding sheep and guarding flocks against predators.

The German shepherd, often known as the Alsatian in the United Kingdom, is the second most common dog breed in the United States. They’re capable and intelligent working dogs. Their dedication and bravery are unrivaled. They’re also incredibly adaptable.


Golden Retriever

Because of their gentle, patient nature, Golden Retrievers make terrific friends and pets for loving homes. It’s no surprise that it’s one of the most popular dog breeds in the US alone. These intelligent working canines shine the brightest when it comes to hunting, sniffing, and tracking.

Their gentleness makes them perfect as companions and therapy dogs. These dogs are all about love and affection for their family and owner, having originated in the beautiful hills of the Scottish Highlands.


Great Dane

Great Dane
Great Dane

A Great Dane is a genuinely great dog breed–large and noble, Great Danes are a gigantic German working breed that was originally bred by German aristocrats as a boarhound. They are frequently referred to as “the Apollo of Dogs.” They’re one of the friendliest canines you’ll ever meet.

Great Danes are charming, affectionate dogs despite their size. They enjoy playing with youngsters and are kind to them. When lying down, Great Danes can weigh as much as a man and will easily take up a whole sofa.


Harrier

Harriers are sometimes known as hare hounds since they were raised to chase hares. They’ve since become the ideal first-time dog for families all around the world. These dogs can be very lively due to their sociable nature as pack hounds.

They enjoy running, making them great companions for those who enjoy jogging and participating in various activities.

Expert Tip: These puppies are frequently incompatible with any other animals you may have, resulting in compatibility concerns.


Havanese

Havanese dogs date back to the 1500s in Cuba. As a breed, they are friendly and lively due to their petite size and robust physique. Because of their velvety fur, intelligence, and desire to please their loving owners, they are ideal for any loving type of home.

The Havanese dog’s lack of shedding and astute intelligence have earned it a place as a popular therapy dog in hospitals, providing joy to those who need it. Though they are sometimes mated with other dogs for mixed-breed toy dogs, their mental focus and agile physique make it easy to teach skills.


Ibizan Hound

On the Balearic island of Ibiza, the Ibizan Hound was bred to hunt rabbits and small game. In addition to being beloved family companions, Ibizan Hounds compete in coursing, agility, obedience, conformation, and tracking. Ibizans are energetic and require a lot of hard activity on a daily basis.

Ibizans get along with other dog breeds in general, but they have a strong prey drive and may try to chase smaller animals. They are not an excellent choice for cat-friendly houses.


Jack Russell

Jack Russells, often known as Jack Russell Terriers, are energetic, clever, and curious dogs. They were bred in England 200 years ago to aid in fox hunting. For families with older children, they can be fantastic family dogs, but they will need frequent exercise and intellectual stimulation to avoid becoming destructive.

A Jack Russell is most likely to thrive with an experienced owner who has the time to commit to training and caring for this breed.


Japanese Chin

Japanese Chin
Japanese Chin

A Japanese Chin is a cheerful, attentive, loving, and clever dog. In the 1600s, emperors, princesses, and other Chinese royalty owned them. These canines are afraid of being stepped on or wounded because of their small stature. They may snap at toddlers and other tiny children that fall nearby out of self-preservation.

This toy dog can peacefully live in an apartment, a large house, or anything in between.


Kangal

This national dog of Turkey, also known as the Anatolian Lion, has a top speed of 35 miles per hour or 56 kilometers per hour. One of their best qualities, together with their protective disposition, makes this breed ideal for protecting cattle herds.

Expert Tip: Kangal Dogs can defend herds, properties, and people against humans, jackals, wolves, cheetahs, and lions, which are abundant in Turkey and Africa. Among all dog breeds, the breed is noted for having one of the strongest bites.


King Shepherd

King Shepherd is the most powerful of the shepherds. King Shepherd was developed in the United States in the 1990s to create a German Shepherd mix with fewer health issues than a purebred German Shepherd.

They’re protective of their families, but they’re also intelligent and conscientious enough to weigh the evidence and determine when a person or animal isn’t a threat. They demand a caregiver who is ready to put in the work to ensure they get to play and exercise because they are a highly energetic breed.


Kishu

The Japanese government has designated the Kishu ken as a national treasure for its remarkable hunting abilities in dangerous wildlife such as boar. They can be aggressive and may not be a good fit for families that already have a dog or cat. They have a great desire to chase after smaller creatures.

Their coat may appear to require a lot of upkeep at first glance, but this breed requires little in the way of grooming habits.


Leonberger

The Leonberger is a large dog breed that dates back to the 18th century. They are descended from the Newfoundland, longhaired Saint Bernard, and Great Pyrenees, and are sometimes referred to as the Pyrenean Mountain dog.

They were originally developed as companion dogs in Germany because they were historically used to pull carts of products as well as guard homes, in which they are categorized as a working group.


Mastiff

Mastiff dog breed
Mastiff dog breed

The Mastiff is one of the oldest dog breeds in the world. The mastiff is a huge dog that is recognized for its friendliness, loyalty, and affectionate disposition. Mastiffs have a strong bond with their family. Even when there are loud family activities going on all around them, they retain a peaceful demeanor.


Maltese

The Maltese is a friendly and brave toy dog breed that treats everyone as a family. They are white-haired hypoallergenic canines. Spitz-type canines were most likely used to breed Maltese. Maltese dogs have been bred to be excellent companions.

Expert Tip: When it comes to their family, they are playful, gentle, and affectionate. Maltese can also be used as therapy dogs with further training.


Mountain Cur

Mountain Curs are purebred hunting dogs who hunt raccoons, squirrels, and other small wildlife. They can also be employed to hunt larger creatures like wild boar and bears, or as farmworker dogs.

These canines, which are members of the hound dog family, were raised in the mountains of Tennessee and Kentucky to assist frontier families. They served as livestock guardians and guard dogs.


Newfoundland

The Newfoundland is a highly skilled work and guard dog that was developed in the Canadian province of the same name. It was bred to help drowning fishermen in the chilly waters off the coast of Newfoundland. It was an ideal rescue dog because of its webbed feet and thick fur, as well as its excellent swimming abilities.


Northern Inuit Dog

Northern Inuit dogs were bred from dogs like Siberian Huskies, German Shepherds, and Alaskan Malamutes to have the appearance of a dog while preserving the beneficial characteristics associated with domesticated dogs. The lifespan of this breed is between 12 and 15 years.

Northern Inuit Dogs are far too friendly to serve as reliable guard dogs. They despise being left alone for extended periods of time. Separation anxiety is more common in them than in certain other dog breeds.


Norwegian Elkhound

Norwegian Elkhound
Norwegian Elkhound

The Norwegian Elkhound is one of Europe’s oldest dog breeds. These dogs are quick, attentive, and always eager to join their families on adventures. They are not only entertaining family members, but they are also capable watchdogs. The dogs belonged to the hound family and were Vikings’ preferred hunting partners.

They make excellent family companions as well as excellent hunting dogs.


Old English Sheepdog

The Old English Sheepdog is a large, athletic dog with shaggy hair, dark eyes, and a white and gray color pattern. As a herding dog, this breed evolved in the 19th century in the Cornwall region of southwestern England. It was initially bred to transport cattle between pasture and market over country roads.

Expert Tip: The Old English Sheepdog, with its great intelligence, is eager to exercise, learn new tricks, and go to new locations.



Otterhound

This shaggy dog has a long history in England, dating back to the 14th century. These canines were bred to catch and kill otters in streams and lakes. This is done to prevent otters from stealing fish from local fishermen. Bloodhounds and French hounds are some of this canine’s related ancestors.

Otterhounds, unsurprisingly, belong to the hound family. Although all dogs can bark, the howl of an Otterhound is particularly powerful and resonant, similar to the howls of its hound ancestors, which will undoubtedly wake any nearby neighbors.


Pointer

The Pointer is a versatile field dog and superb family dog breed that has been bred for hundreds of years to “point” birds and small prey such as rabbits. They excel in a variety of areas, including agility and obedience, from the field to the show ring.

Pointers are affectionate but they can also be demanding at times as they may constantly try to be right with their owner.


Pomeranian

Despite their diminutive size, Pomeranians have a genetic lineage that includes huge sled dogs such as the Husky and Alaskan Malamute. They weighed 20-30 pounds before being bred to be considerably smaller, at their full adult size.

The only reason the Pomeranian is this size is that Queen Victoria of England demanded that they be made smaller so that they could be used as lapdogs. If they feel inferior, these dogs can turn aggressive, and they don’t like to be handled excessively by small children.


Poodle

Poodles are well-known for being large, intelligent, and attractive dogs. They are considered one of the world’s most intelligent breeds. They’re easy to train and adapt to almost any task you offer them and you’ll want to give them chores to accomplish.

Furthermore, they have lovely hairdos and are the best show dogs due to their exquisite appearance and natural aptitude to perform. Poodles are regarded to be exceptionally talented and affectionate family pets.


Pug

The pug is possibly the most distinctive dog breed in the world, with its huge, protruding eyes, curly tail, wrinkled face, and almost square appearance. More than 2,000 years ago, the pug was developed in China. It was a popular pet among Chinese imperial families and Tibetan Buddhist monks.

The pug has a predilection for mischief, albeit it usually manifests itself in the form of playful taunting rather than actual mischief. They have delicate personalities, and if you are overly harsh with them, you may accidentally damage the pug’s feelings.


Rottweiler

Rottweiler dog breed
Rottweiler dog breed

The Rottweiler, which originated in Rottweil, Germany, and is linked to the Italian Mastiff, or simply Mastiff, is a descendant of the old Roman drover dog. It is used to herd cattle, hunt bears, or pull small carriages. The working dog is now outstanding police, service, or guard dog, as well as a household companion.

If an adult Rottie is bored or anxious, it may resort to chewing on furniture and other household things.


Saint Bernard

Saint Bernards are huge canines with a reputation for being quite muscular. They are working dogs that originate in both Italy and Switzerland’s Western Alps. These dogs are known for taking a long time to psychologically mature, therefore they are not suitable for people searching for a tidy and composed pet.

Expert Tip: These dogs frequently slobber and track muck into the house, making them an untidy pet. They also have a hard time adjusting to the extremely hot conditions, resulting in a lot of shedding.


Samoyed

The Samoyede people of northwestern Siberia developed the Samoyed dog breed, which was initially bred for hunting, tow sledding, and herding reindeers, to be a valuable companion. The breed’s responsibilities include tracking and hiking in packs, to name a few.

Samoyeds are affectionate, sensitive, and loyal family dogs who can be demanding sometimes. They get along with almost everyone as long as outsiders don’t mind a little shedding of fur on their clothes.


Shiba Inu

Shibas are tiny to medium-sized dog breed that is sometimes referred to as Shibas. They were created to flush out birds and small animals, as well as to occasionally hunt wild boar. Shiba Inus are one of Japan’s six native dog breeds, with the Hokkaido, Shikoku, Akita, Kishu, and Kai.

Shibas have a lively personality, short, upright ears, and cat-like agility. They are generally employed as companion dogs in Japan and the United States.


Shih Tzu

Canis Lupus is the scientific name for a toy dog breed known as the Shih Tzu. The Shih Tzu’s long double-coat is said to have originated in Tibet’s chilly highlands, and it is a Chinese term that means “little lion”.

According to legend, the Llasa Apso is the result of a cross between a Pekingese and a Pug. Because of its small stature and laid-back demeanor, the Shih Tzu is an ideal companion in any loving home.


Siberian Husky

Siberian Husky
Siberian Husky

Their magnificent, thick coats come in a range of hues, including grey and white, red and white, and agouti, and they are one of the rare breeds with blue eyes. They were bred as both household pets and sled dogs in northeast Asia, which explains their thick coat and high energy levels.

Siberian Huskies are unhappy when away from their families because they were raised for pack life.


Terrier

Terriers are developed to hunt and kill pests while also protecting family homes and stables. Terriers are classified into five different classes based on their size and use. The word “terrier” comes from the Latin word “terra” meaning earth. This dog breed originated in the British Isles and descended from a small number of forefathers.

Expert Tip: They are extremely popular as working dogs, companion animals, and family pets all throughout the world.


Vizsla

The Vizsla is a sleek hunting dog that is also an excellent tracker and Hungary’s most famous canine export. The Vizsla’s history begins in the 800s AD when a nomadic group known as the Magyars arrived in Europe and established the first Hungarian state. They brought an athletic red dog that looks like a modern Vizsla with them.

Over the ages, these dogs were developed and bred to achieve great physical condition, allowing them to hunt in Hungary’s tough fields, woodlands, and even rivers.


Whippet

The medium-sized breed is also known as the “Poor Man’s Racehorse” and “Lightning Rag Dog”. Although it is commonly mistaken for a little Greyhound, the Whippet has a distinct deep chest and narrow waist, and it is unknown which breed was utilized to make it.

The Whippet was bred in Victorian England for rabbit hunting, but it was also employed for lure coursing, amateur racing, and dog shows before making its way to New England with the coal miners. The breed is a great family pet or city companion since it is calm, kind, affectionate, and intelligent.


Xoloitzcuintli

Xoloitzcuintli dog
Xoloitzcuintli dog

The Xoloitzcuintli, often known as the Mexican hairless dog or simply the Xolo, is Mexico’s National Canine and one of the world’s oldest and most venerable dog breeds. The Xolo has a rich and fascinating history, dating back over 3,000 years. It was a normal tradition to sacrifice and bury a dog in the tomb of its owner.

The Xolo has a long lifespan and has very few inheritable conditions. The Xolo’s skin is vulnerable to sunlight, harsh weather, and environmental irritants due to its hairless feature.


Yakutian Laika

Yakutian Laikas are an ancient breed that has only recently gained popularity in other areas of the world. They originated in the Yakutia region of Russian Siberia, as you might expect based on their name. The Yakut people of the area employed the breed for reindeer herding, hunting, and hauling sleds across the snowy and icy terrain.

Expert Tip: In fact, the Yakutian were the first known people to use sled dogs.

With technical developments and alternative modes of transportation, the number of Yakutian Laikas began to decline. The breed was preserved in 1998 by a group of people who fought tirelessly to keep it alive.


Zuchon

The Zuchon is a cross between a Shih Tzu and a Bichon Frise. It is a lovely, loving breed. The idea was to create a loving companion with the greatest characteristics of each breed. Due to his appearance, the resulting pup is also known as the teddy bear dog. He makes a lovely pet with the proper training and exceptional service animal.

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About Ava Wellington

Hi, my name is Ava and I am a editor for GuideYourPet. I love pets, and am the owner of 2 horses and 2 dogs! I have loved pets all my life, and have owned everything from bearded dragons to snakes! I am excited to help you take the best care of your pet!