Types of Dogs: All Breeds From A-Z

Q: What are some examples of small dog breeds?

Chihuahua, Boston Terrier , Shih Tzu, Pug, and Dachshund are some small dog breeds.

Dog Scientific Name and History

Dogs are the domesticated descendants of the Wolf. Dogs have one of two scientific names depending on the species. The two scientific names for dogs are:

Canis familiaris (domestic dog) – The most common and best fit for most pet dogs.
Canis lupus familiaris (domestic wolf dog) – A subspecies of the Wolf.

Dogs are in the family Canidae, the dog-like carnivorans or canids, while the genus Canis means “dog” and includes wolves, dogs, coyotes and jackals. Their subfamily is Caninae, or canines, while their tribe is the dog-like or “true dog” tribe Canini and their sub-tribe is the wolf-like canids of Canina. Dogs are one of the first animals to be domesticated by prehistoric man.

Dog Characteristics

All members of the genus Canis have common physical characteristics. Bone structure, behavior and reproduction are just a few markers that are unique to canids. Dogs also have unique characteristics that distinguish them from wolves. You can use some of these markers to determine whether a canid is a wolf or a dog.

Canine teeth

Dogs are decedents of wolves and have a dental pattern that reflects their carnivorous diet. Their teeth are sharp, and designed to rip apart and chew meat. The four sharp, pointed teeth many humans have are called ‘canines’ for their resemblance. Teeth are one of the easiest ways to identify a canine. Most canids (of the family Canidae) have 42 teeth, with a dental formula of:

3.1.4.2
3.1.4.3.

Types of Dog Teeth And Their Function

Tooth Type	Lower Teeth Count	Upper Teeth Count	Function
Molars	6	4	Shearing
Premolars	8	8	Shearing
Canines	2	2	Ripping
Incisors	6	6	Biting

Learn everything you need to know about dog teeth here.

Other canid features

Canids generally share similar skull features, basic body shape, monogamous and pack behavior and retention of adult offspring.

What Do Dogs Eat? Dog Diets Explained

Because dogs descended from wolves they are carnivores with biology designed for a meat based diet. However, very few pet dogs today eat strictly meat. Modern dog food is much more affordable than a purely meat diet, and offers a wider range of nutrients. Today dog food is often made by blending meat with grains and vegetables. Different meats like salmon, chicken, venison, beef, and pork are often used in dog food. These meats are commonly combined with potatoes, peas, carrots, and other vegetables.

Depending on your pet’s dietary needs there are many dog foods to choose from. There are dog foods to help your pet gain weight, and dog food to help them lose weight. There are even dog foods for allergies. Many owners start by first choosing wet vs dry dog food and going from there. Some of the best dog food options are below:

Dog features

Dogs have a greater variance in behavioral and physical variation than any other land mammal, including wolves. Dogs have starch gel electrophoresis of red blood cell acid phosphatase. They also have smaller, compressed and crumpled tymphanic bullae. Physically, they have a more domed forehead and “stop” between the nose and forehead. Wolves have a more prominent temporalis mususscle (the muscle that closes the jaws) and do not have dew claws on their back legs. Dogs lack a pre-caudal gland and go into estrus twice instead of once a year. Whereas dogs usually have brown eyes, wolves have amber or pale-colored eyes. Their skin is thicker and their paws are half the size of those of a wolf.

Some house plants are poisonous to dogs, including Begonia, Poinsettia and Aloe Vera. Many human food items are indigestible or toxic to dogs, such as chocolate, onion, garlic, macadamia nuts, xylitol and nicotine. Diet-wise, dogs are omnivores and can handle a diet with more starch in it than a wolf, which is more strictly carnivorous.

Dog Exceptions

There are several tribes of the subfamily Caninae. The dog-like tribe Canini is sister to the wolf-like tribe Vulpini. They are in the suborder Caniformia or Canoidea, the dog-like carnivorans. It stands in stark contrast to the cat-like carnivorans, the Feliformia or Feloidea suborder of Carnivora.

Types of Dogs

There are several types of dog groups that are classified based on what they were bred to do:

Sporting dogs

Sporting dogs were bred to help their hunters capture and retrieve game birds. Retrievers swim and focus on waterfowl, while setters, spaniels and pointers hunt game birds. Their coats are often thick and water-repellant to protect against the elements. Some examples of sporting dog breeds are Golden Retriever, Labrador Retriever, the Nova Scotia Dock Tolling Retriever, Cocker Spaniel and German Shorthaired Pointer.

Hound dogs

Hound dogs were bred to chase after warm-blooded, terrestrial prey. They are generally divided into sighthounds, who use speed and vision to chase jackrabbits and antelopes, while scent hounds can use their noses to trail raccoons and people. All have strong prey drives. Some examples of hound dog breeds are Bloodhound, Greyhound and Dachshund.

Working dogs

Working dogs were bred to perform tasks such as guarding families or pulling sleds and carts. The Boxer, Great Dane and Rottweiler and a few examples of working dog breeds.

Herding dogs

Herding dogs are a type of working dog along with service dogs. While herding dogs help herd livestock, service dogs help people with disabilities. However, they differ in that they were bred specifically to herd livestock, such as sheep, cattle and reindeer. Some are excellent for police and military work. A few examples of herding dog breeds are Border Collie, German Shepherd and Icelandic Sheepdog.

Terrier dogs

Terrier dogs were bred to be small in order to go after vermin hiding in the ground. They include terrier breeds, which have long legs to dig out rodents, and “bully” breeds, which were used for bull-baiting and now make companion dogs. Bull Terrier, Scottish Terrier and Welsh Terrier are examples of terrier dog breeds.

Toy dogs

Toy dogs were bred for their small size to be companion dogs. They are perfect for city dwellers or anyone living in a small house. A few examples of toy dog breeds are Chihuahua, Pug and Shih Tzu.

Non-sporting dogs

Non-sporting dogs do not fit into any of the other group types and were bred to be companionship animals. The Bulldog, Dalmatian and Poodle are a few examples of non-sporting dogs.

Dog-wolf hybrids

Dogs share a common ancestor with modern wolves. Many large dog breeds have been bred with wolves, such as malamutes and huskies. Some are sought by private citizens, while others have been used for security work. For example, the Russians in the late 1990s created a breeding program for wolf-dog hybrids called Volkosoby or Volkosob, which are used for border control. See a list of 8 dogs that look like wolves here.

Types of Dogs

Affenpinscher

First bred in 17th century Germany!

Afghan Hound

First used as a shepherd and hunter!

Aidi

This dog has a thick coat of fur despite its origins in Morocco, a country known for its hot temperatures.

Ainu

An innate sense of direction!

Airedale Terrier

Very intelligent, independent and strong-minded!

Airedoodle

This is a great pooch for rough-housing and one-to-one.

Akbash

Often used as a guard dog!

Akita

Very clean, intelligent and loyal!

Akita Shepherd

The Akita Shepherd descends from a lineage of working dogs.

Alabai

The Alabai’s genes indicate that this breed has been around for more than 5,000 years.

Alaskan Husky

The Alaskan Husky is one of the most common sled dogs in the world

Alaskan Klee Kai

The Alaskan Klee Kai is very vocal and isn't shy when communicating with his family.

Alaskan Malamute

Often used as sled dogs!

Alaskan Shepherd

This dog’s Malamute ancestors once came to America across the Bering Strait.

Alpine Dachsbracke

Good companion and hard-working breed!

Alusky

Alusky dogs are known for their sledding pulling skills.

American Alsatian

American Bulldog

Can jump up to 6ft high!

American Cocker Spaniel

Merry, outgoing, and eager to please!

American Coonhound

Easygoing and people-friendly!

American Eskimo Dog

The American Eskimo has splendid all white fur and an upturned tail

American Foxhound

Sweet, kind, loyal, and very loving!

American Hairless Terrier

The American hairless terrier comes in two varieties with one having a very short coat.

American Leopard Hound

This breed is also known as the American Leopard Cur. The name was formally changed to American Leopard Hound in 2008.

American Pit Bull Terrier

These dogs are very energetic and would be up for a game at any given point of time

American Staffordshire Terrier

Bred to be extremely friendly!

American Water Spaniel

Friendly and intelligent!

Anatolian Shepherd Dog

Guards it's master's flocks!

Appenzeller Dog

Herding dog by nature!

Apple Head Chihuahua

Apple Head Chihuahuas are toy breed dogs with a history dating back to ancient Mexico. They are lovable, loyal, smart and courageous with a lengthy lifespan despite being the world's smallest canines.

Aussiedoodle

The breed has its own popular Instagram page (Aussiedoodles Daily)!

Aussiedor

Aussiedors come in black, brown, cream, yellow, and almost every imaginable color due to their parentage!

Australian Bulldog

The Aussie is a strong swimmer, a good workout in nice weather.

Australian Cattle Dog

High energy levels and active minds!

Australian Kelpie Dog

Friendly, intelligent and energetic!

Australian Labradoodle

The "Australian" just refers to where the breed originated

Australian Retriever

The Australian Retriever may have two different eye colors.

Australian Shepherd

Sweet, faithful and affectionate!

Australian Terrier

Spirited, alert and courageous!

Barbet

This dog has the nickname ‘Mud dog’ because it likes to play in muddy, swamp-like areas.

Basenji Dog

Alert, affectionate and energetic!

Bassador

This dog is also known as a Bassetdor or a Basset Lab.

Basset Fauve de Bretagne

A friendly and intelligent hunting dog that loves nothing more than to spend time with its owner.

Basset Hound

Forget the training when not rewarded!

Bassetoodle

Basset hounds have been around since the 7th century, but the bassetoodle made its first appearance in the 2000s.

Bavarian Mountain Hound

Calm, quiet and poised!

Bea-Tzu

The Bea-Tzu has a fast-growing coat

Beabull

An excellent companion for cats!

Beagador

Beagadors like to dig, so make sure your garden has a good fence around it.

Beagle

Have become popular family pets!

Beagle Shepherd

This dog can perform a wide range of exotic and acrobatic tricks that are not expected of a dog this size.

Beaglier

These dogs have great sniffer abilities

Beago

Beagos are good swimmers like their Golden Retriever parent.

Bearded Collie

Weekly brushing is mandatory!

Beaski

Beaskis love to play, so get ready to go on plenty of long walks.

Beauceron

The Beauceron is named after the place of its origin (Beauce) in France

Bedlington Terrier

Highly active and intelligent dogs!

Belgian Shepherd

The sheepdog is also known as the Groenendael. All four Belgian varieties have nicknames for Belgian villages.

Belgian Tervuren

The first breed to win an AKC Herding Championship.

Bergamasco

Bergamascos are excellent problem solvers; they were bred to be independent as they work alongside their nomadic shepherd owners.

Berger Picard

Berger means shepherd in French

Bernedoodle

The Bernedoodle was first bred in 2003 to create a dog with a similar temperament to the Bernese Mountain Dog that would have a longer lifespan.

Bernese Mountain Dog

Very loyal, faithful and affectionate!

Bernese Shepherd

Bernese shepherds prefer cool climates

Bichon Frise

Gentle mannered, playful and affectionate!

Bichpoo

Despite its small size, the alert nature and sharp bark of this canine make it a good watch dog.

Biewer Terrier

A toy terrier dog and is elegant and tri-colored.

Black And Tan Coonhound

This dog has its own unique howl.

Black Russian Terrier

Confident, calm and highly intelligent!

Bloodhound

Affectionate, gentle and even-tempered!

Blue Lacy Dog

Originated in Texas in the mid 1800s!

Blue Picardy Spaniel

The Blue Picardy is also known as the Epagneul Bleu de Picardie in French

Bluetick Coonhound

Has an uncanny knack for problem-solving!

Boggle

Boggles at animal rescues are often mistaken for pitbulls because they have a similar facial structure.

Boglen Terrier

Boglen terriers are also occasionally known as boggles.

Bolognese Dog

From the northern Italian city of Bologna!

Borador

Boradors make excellent police dogs and are used often on search and rescue missions.

Border Collie

Highly intelligent and alert breed!

Border Terrier

Small, rough-coated breed of terrier!

Bordoodle

Bordoodles are much quieter than other Doodles and require far less exercise.

Borkie

Most Borkies inherit the signature howl of their Beagle parent.

Boston Terrier

Friendly, lovable and very strong!

Bouvier Des Flandres

The name Bouvier des Flandres means cowherd of Flanders in French

Boxador

Boxadors are extremely smart and catch onto backyard games very quickly!

Boxer Dog

Bright, energetic and playful!

Boxerdoodle

The Boxerdoodle has a strong hunting dog lineage.

Boxsky

Boxers were bred to be working war dogs, and their boxsky descendants still love to help out on ranches and other outdoor jobs.

Boxweiler

Boxweilers come in a variety of colors, but they usually feature the subtle brindle pattern that their boxer parents are so famous for.

Boykin Spaniel

Enthusiastic working dog!

Brazilian Terrier

Small body and tri-coloured coat!

British Timber

Brittany

The breed was formerly known as the Brittany spaniel

Brug

These small, confident dogs have no fear of approaching much larger dogs.

Brussels Griffon

The Brussels Griffon prefers to live with another dog so they have a companion to play with.

Bull Terrier

Needs to be kept active!

Bulldog

Friendly, loving and docile!

Bullmastiff

Courageous, loyal and calm!

Cairn Terrier

Intelligent, lively and strong!

Canaan Dog

Has a strong survival instinct!

Canadian Eskimo Dog

Cane Corso

Cane Corsos nearly became extinct in the mid 1900’s, but the breed was revived by a group of Italians. Even so, they still didn’t become known in many other parts of the world until after 1988.

Carolina Dog

Wild dog breed discovered in the 1970s!

Catahoula Leopard

The state of Louisiana's only native dog breed

Catalan Sheepdog

This breed is called the Gos d’Atura Catala in native Catalan and Pastor Catalan in Spanish, both of which roughly translate to mean Catalan Sheepdog

Cava Tzu

Females are more territorial than males, but you can train this behavior out of them.

Cavador

The Cavador is a good service dog.

Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

Highly playful and affectionate!

Cavapoo

The temperament of a Cavapoo allows this breed to make an excellent family dog as well as a great therapy dog.

Cesky Fousek

An affectionate hunting dog!

Cesky Terrier

This breed is also known as the Bohemian Terrier (Bohemia was an historical Medieval kingdom and a region of the modern Czech Republic)

Cheagle

Some Cheagles have an excellent sense of smell.

Chesapeake Bay Retriever

Bright and happy disposition!

Chihuahua

Curious and devoted personality!

Chinese Crested Dog

A hairless breed of dog!

Chinese Shar-Pei

These dogs have a blue and black tongue.

Chinook

A calm and friendly breed!

Chipoo

The Chipoo was first bred in the 1970s

Chiweenie

Chiweenies travel especially well.

Chorkie

Chorkies are very fond of their owners and will love to sit in their laps for long amounts of time!

Chow Chow

Loyal and affectionate to it's family!

Chow Shepherd

The Chow Shepherd is also known as the Sheprachow.

Clumber Spaniel

Has a thick, soft coat!

Cockalier

The Cockalier has very strong hunting ancestry.

Cockapoo

Cockapoos became popular in the 1960s as a sweet, family dog.

Cocker Spaniel

Collie

Gentle and devoted!

Corgidor

Corgidors are herding dogs that typically help out on cattle farms.

Corgipoo

These dogs are highly intelligent and are easy to train.

Corkie

One of the Corkie’s parent breeds, the Cocker Spaniel, was thought to have come over on the Mayflower.

Corman Shepherd

Corman Shepherds can be great watchdogs and are often very protective of their owners.

Coton de Tulear

The soft coat of the Coton de Tulear is the result of a singular genetic mutation early in the breed's development.

Curly Coated Retriever

A lively and fun-loving breed!

Czechoslovakian Wolfdog

This breed is also known as the Czechoslovakian Vlcak (the name for the German Shepherd).

Dachsador

This hybrid dog is also known as a Doxador or a Weinerdor.

Dachshund

Fun and playful breed of small dog!

Dalmadoodle

Dalmatians were originally bred to run alongside carriages, and their dalmadoodle descendents have the same long legs and high energy.

Dalmador

Dalmador breeding skyrocketed after the 16 release of the live-action 101 Dalmatians movie.

Dalmatian

Have an energetic and playful nature!

Dapple Dachshund

A Dapple Dachshund’s dappling pattern may be just one spot, or it may be numerous spots and splashes on their coat.

Deer Head Chihuahua

The Chihuahua is the smallest dog breed in the world.

Deutsche Bracke

Has long drop ears and a long narrow tail!

Doberman Pinscher

A gentle, loyal and loving breed!

Dog

First domesticated in South-East Asia!

Dogo Argentino

Loyal and affectionate to their family!

Dogue De Bordeaux

Extremely loyal and devoted to it's master!

Dorgi

The Dorgi is one of the more popular mixed breed dogs.

Dorkie

Dorkies are so laid-back they sometimes need extra incentive to exercise each day.

Double Doodle

Exact origin unknown.

Doxiepoo

Doxiepoos are an unpredictable breed that can come in a variety of appearances and sizes.

Doxle

Doxles have long floppy ears

Drever

Uncommon outside of Europe!

Dunker

A friendly and relaxed dog!

English Bulldog

Bulldogs were originally bred to “pin” bulls.

English Cocker Spaniel

Intelligent yet stubborn by nature!

English Cream Golden Retriever

Although their coats can get incredibly light in color, golden retrievers never have purely white coats.

English Foxhound

English Foxhounds were bred to work and live in a pack. Because of this, this breed is happiest when they are around other dogs.

English Pointer

English Setter

English Setters were first bred between 400 and 500 years ago.

English Shepherd

Highly intelligent and independent!

English Springer Spaniel

Friendly and eager to please!

Entlebucher Mountain Dog

Native to parts of the Swiss Alps!

Epagneul Pont Audemer

Hard-working, gentle and affectionate!

Eskimo Dog

Takes pure delight in cold weather!

Eskipoo

Eskipoos are called pookimos by the American Canine Hybrid Club, Designer Dogs Kennel Club, and Designer Breed Registry.

Estrela Mountain Dog

Very protective and stubborn!

Feist

The word feisty derived from this type of dog.

Field Spaniel

A sociable and adaptable breed!

Fila Brasileiro

The breed has a unique, cat-like gait, while females have a finer gait than males.

Finnish Spitz

Likes to bark a lot!

Flat-Coated Retriever

A game retrieving gun-dog!

Formosan Mountain Dog

Formosa is the Portuguese term for the island of Taiwan

Fox Terrier

First bred in the mid-19th century!

French Bulldog

French bulldogs are known to be very sensitive, harboring emotions that they love to express

Frenchton

Loyal small dogs, the Frenchton will keep you warm at night with loving cuddles, but also awake with their funny loud snoring!

Frengle

Frengles have a haunting howl very similar to their Beagle parent.

Gerberian Shepsky

German Shepherds, Siberian Huskies, and Gerberian Shepskies are all popular choices for police dogs.

German Pinscher

Highly intelligent and fast learners!

German Shepherd Guide

Highly active and fearless dogs!

German Sheppit

The German Sheppit is well-suited for guarding and police work.

German Sheprador

There is a chance that the German Sheprador may inherit a love for water from its parent.

German Shorthaired Pointer

German Shorthaired Pointers are used by the Air Force, TSA, and other organizations to sniff out explosives.

German Spitz

There are five different sub-breeds of the German Spitz.

Giant Schnauzer

Large, powerful and dominant!

Giant Schnoodle

Both parents of the Giant Schnoodle are hypoallergenic, making this one of the Doodle breeds that's safest for dander-sensitive owners.

Glechon

Glechons are talented in the area of search and rescue, as their sense of smell makes them great at tracking.

Glen Of Imaal Terrier

This dog is also named the Wicklow Terrier after the county of its origin.

Goberian

These dogs are great around children and are very playful around them.

Goldador

Goldadors were not intentionally bred until the early 2000s!

Golden Dox

Golden doxes don't have to be tiny. This breed looks different depending on whether the mix includes a regular dachshund or the mini version of the species.

Golden Newfie

These dogs love to swim and instinctively know how to swim.

Golden Pyrenees

Golden Pyrenees make great therapy dogs due to their intelligence and gentle nature.

Golden Retriever

Trusting, kind and gentle!

Golden Saint

Golden saints come in all kinds of colors. You can find them in tan, chocolate, yellow, brindled, spotted, and almost any other pattern you can think of.

Golden Shepherd

The Golden Shepherds were first recognized by the International Designer Canine Registry in 2009.

Goldendoodle

Due to their breeding, no two Goldendoodles are alike.

Gordon Setter

It's the largest and heaviest breed of setter.

Great Dane

Large and imposing in appearance!

Great Danoodle

Both Great Danes and Poodles are in the top 15 most popular AKC breeds - which makes Great Danoodles a shoo-in for popularity.

Great Pyrenees

Greater Swiss Mountain Dog

Protective and gentle by nature!

Greenland Dog

Strong and speedy breed of dog!

Greyhound

Extremely fast and athletic!

Griffonshire

Griffonshires are so little they are easily mistaken for puppies throughout their lives.

Groenendael

Although developed as a herding dog, the breed makes an excellent guard and working dog and is used by police forces and the military.

Harrier

Cheerful, tolerant and sweet-tempered!

Havanese

These are the only dogs that are native to Cuba

Havapoo

The exact appearance of a Havapoo can vary based on whether the genes of its Poodle or Havanese parent are more dominant.

Havashire

Both of the Havashire’s parent breeds were very popular among the upper classes.

Hokkaido

Known for its bravery and ability to withstand the cold.

Horgi

Horgis have a silly side and love to be the center of attention.

Huntaway

Huntaways have a strong instinct for herding.

Huskador

Huskadors are gaining in popularity as service dogs.

Huskita

Huskitas prefer a consistent daily routine with lots of activity.

Husky

To communicate, Siberian Huskies rarely bark but instead create their own music and howl.

Husky Jack

Due to the mix of genes, a Husky Jack’s coat may be a variety of colors including black, gray, white, red, sable, or mixed colors.

Huskydoodle

Huskydoodles are known for their jumping abilities!

Ibizan Hound

Intelligent, active and engaging by nature!

Icelandic Sheepdog

The Icelandic Sheepdog is the only dog breed entirely native to Iceland.

Irish Doodle

Irish Doodles can be very active dogs, but they also love just hanging out with their family members in the house.

Irish Setter

Can live for up to 16 years!

Irish Terrier

An average 300 Irish Terrier puppies are born each year in the United States.

Irish Water Spaniel

The only known canine with a purple hue.

Irish WolfHound

Sweet-tempered, patient and thoughtful!

Italian Greyhound

The Italian Greyhound is a miniature dog with a big motor and personality!

Jack Russell

Intelligent, athletic and fearless!

Jackabee

The Jackabee has an excellent sense of smell.

Japanese Chin

Alert, intelligent and independent!

Japanese Spitz

The Japanese Spitz is sometimes referred to as a cloud dog.

Japanese Terrier

Japanese Terriers are also called Nippon Terriers

Kai Ken

Kai Ken are a very rare breed of dog from Japan, though pure breeds are even harder to come by.

Kangal

Can run up to 35 miles per hour (56km).

Keeshond

Friendly, alert dogs that are loyal to their owners

Kerry Blue Terrier

They are born black, and turn gray-blue as they age.

King Shepherd

This hybrid breed is the largest among the shepherd class.

Kishu

Once raised to hunt dangerous game like boar, today's kishu ken are more likely to be used as guard dogs.

Kooikerhondje

If Kooikerhondjes look familiar, it’s because old Dutch masters like Rembrandt and Jan Steen liked to paint them.

Koolie

The name "koolie" comes from the German mispronunciation of "collie."

Kuvasz

Ownership of this dog was once restricted to the Hungarian nobility

Labahoula

The AKC does not recognize this breed or the parent breed Catahoula

Labmaraner

Loves to participate in activities.

Labradane

Labradanes can come with both sold-color coats and the more exciting patterns that you typically see on Great Danes.

Labradoodle

Friendly and energetic mix-breed!

Labrador Retriever

Well-balanced, friendly and versatile!

Labraheeler

These dogs have medium-sized pendant ears.

Lakeland Terrier

These dogs were once used by farmers to keep foxes away from herds of sheep.

Lancashire Heeler

The name “heeler” comes from the fact that it nips at the heels of cattle to herd them.

Lapponian Herder

This breed is also known as the Lapp Reindeer Dog and the Lapsk Vallhund.

Leonberger

This dog has been used for pulling carts full of goods.

Lhasa Apso

The Lhasa Apso was often given as a gift in Tibetan culture

Lhasapoo

A Lhasapoo’s coat can be curly like a poodle’s or long and silky like a Lhasa Apso’s.

Long-Haired Rottweiler

Rottweilers have a tendency to snore.

Lowchen

This breed is also known as the "Little Lion Dog" for their bravery and manes.

Malteagle

Malteagles are one of the smallest beagle hybrids and love to follow their owners everywhere.

Maltese

Originally bred in Europe!

Maltese Shih Tzu

Both parent breeds, the Maltese and Shih Tzu, once entertained royalty

Maltipoo

Maltipoos may have one of three different coat types depending on the specific genes they inherit from their parents. These include silky, curly, or wavy.

Manchester Terrier

Fences are no match for Manchester terriers. They’re great escape artists!

Mastador

The Mastador gets its enormous size from its Mastiff parent

Mastiff

Courageous, calm and affectionate!

Meagle

The Meagle has an incredible sense of smell.

Miki

They can be trained to use the litter box like a cat!

Mini Labradoodle

The first mini labradoodle was bred in the early 1990s - almost immediately after standard labradoodles became popular.

Miniature Bull Terrier

This dog has a very happy-go-lucky temperament.

Miniature Husky

The Miniature Husky has a double coat that it sheds twice annually. Also, some people confuse them with Alaskan Klee Kai, which have similar blue eyes.

Miniature Pinscher

Stable rodents were kept in check by using it as a barnyard ratter.

Mongrel

Has characteristics of two or more breeds!

Morkie

A Morkie puppy can weigh as little as 4 ounces.

Moscow Watchdog

This Molosser-type dog is the Russian cousin of St. Bernard.

Mountain Cur

Mountain Feist

Mountain Feists were bred in the southern United States as a dog that could help with hunting small game.

Mudi

Mudi dogs have a reputation for being able to control a herd of 500 sheep.

Neapolitan Mastiff

Fearless and extremely protective of it's home!

Newfoundland

Introduced by Vikings more than 1,000 years ago!

Newfypoo

Newfypoos have a thick oily coat that can be hard to groom.

Norfolk Terrier

Fearless but not aggressive!

Northern Inuit Dog

Norwegian Buhund

The Norwegian Buhund once worked on Norse homesteads

Norwegian Elkhound

This breed traveled with the Vikings!

Norwegian Lundehund

This breed is also called the Norsk Lundehund and the Norwegian Puffin Dog

Norwich Terrier

Though Norwich terriers are small, they have a reputation for being feisty.

Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever

The Toller is one of only two breeds that hunters use as decoys while hunting.

Old English Sheepdog

Intelligent, sociable and playful!

Otterhound

Otterhounds have webbed feet making them great swimmers!

Papillon

Originally called the Toy Spaniel, the Papillon is one of the oldest breeds in the toy group. They can be found in artwork dating back to the 16th century.

Parson Russell Terrier

The root stock of the breed was a dog named Trump

Patterdale Terrier

A Patterdale Terrier’s small body structure allows it to squeeze into fox burrows.

Peagle

Peagles enjoy being the center of attention. This can make them a very entertaining breed to own.

Pekingese

Thought to be over 2,000 years old!

Pembroke Welsh Corgi

The Pembroke Welsh Corgi is a favorite breed of Queen Elizabeth II

Perro De Presa Canario

The breed has feet like a cat, with rounded toes that are not too close together. His unique feet give him a distinctive, long, elastic stride.

Peruvian Inca Orchid

The Peruvian Inca Orchid is the national dog of Peru

Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen

A small dog with a big, lively personality.

Petite Goldendoodle

Like their purebred parents, these dogs love the water!

Pit Bull

It is a myth that pit bulls have locking jaws.

Pitador

There are several names for this breed, including the Labrabull or the Pitador Retriever.

Pitsky

Most Pitskies will do best as the only pet in a home. They may become aggressive with other dogs (especially two unneutered male dogs) and could try to chase or catch small pets due to their higher prey drive.

Pocket Beagle

Queen Elizabeth I of England once owned several Pocket Beagles

Pocket Pitbull

The smaller size of the Pocket Pitbull made it better suited for fleeing game as compared to larger Foxhounds.

Pointer

An independent, loyal and high energy breed!

Polish Lowland Sheepdog

Despite having shaggy hair that covers its eyes, this dog is known for its watchful gaze when guarding a herd.

Pomapoo

Pomapoos like companionship and do not like being alone. They may do better in a home with other dogs.

Pomchi

A deliberate cross like the Pomchi is commonly referred to as a designer dog

Pomeagle

Pomeagles are sweet and fun dogs that like to spend time exploring their environment.

Pomeranian

The ancestors of the Pomeranian were sled dogs.

Pomsky

The howls and barks of a Pomsky can sound like singing

Poochon

The Poochon was first bred in Australia.

Poodle

Intelligent, alert and active!

Poogle

The Poogle is one of 40 different doodle dog breeds (poodle mixes).

Pudelpointer

Like their poodle parent, Pudelpointers love to swim in pools!

Pug

Fun and sociable, yet stubborn!

Pugapoo

The pugapoo is the fusion of a pug and a poodle.

Puggle

These dogs are active and are often patient around children.

Pugshire

With their incredible desire to show affection, Pugshire make great lap dogs.

Pumi

Pumik developed their loud bark to communicate with shepherds at long distances.

Pyrador

Pyredoodle

Pyredoodles can have a thick double coat or a thinner single coat.

Raggle

Raggles are known for their energy and curiosity.

Rat Terrier

Rat terriers were popular with farmers before 1930 because of their ability to kill rodents.

Redbone Coonhound

Originally bred to track raccoons.

Rottsky

Many Rottskies have one brown eye and one blue eye.

Rottweiler

Strong, loyal and self-assured!

Russell Terrier

The Russell Terrier was bred to be a good fox hunter with a keen sense of smell

Russian Bear Dog

The bite of a Russian Bear Dog is stronger than a lion’s bite.

Saarloos Wolfdog

Sable Black German Shepherd

According to the American Kennel Club, the German Shepherd is the second most popular breed in the United States

Saint Bernard

Gentle, loyal and friendly!

Saint Shepherd

These dogs have an eager-to-please attitude, making them sweet and happy pets.

Saluki

The Saluki is one of the fastest dog breeds in the world.

Samoyed

Schipperke

Schipperkes were used to hunt and kill rodents on Belgian ships.

Schneagle

This hybrid dog is a great companion and doesn’t do well being left alone but is suitable for apartments or houses with backyards!

Schnoodle

Scottish Terrier

This breed is nicknamed the “Diehard” because of its iron will and steely determination.

Sealyham Terrier

Very endangered breed that is scion of several breeds that include one that is already extinct

Sheepadoodle

Sheepadoodles were first bred as an experiment for use as a military dog in the Army in the 1960s, however they didn’t really gain popularity until 2007.

Shepadoodle

Some police officers with allergies use Shepadoodles as their K-9 partner

Shepkita

These dogs can sometimes be overly aggressive.

Shepweiler

The Shepweiler is an excellent guard dog.

Shiba Inu

Shiba Inus are one of six native dog breeds from Japan.

Shih Poo

Shih Tzu

Can live for up to 15 years!

Shollie

Shollies are a fairly new type of crossbreed!

Siberian Husky

Is adequately warm in sub-zero temperatures!

Siberian Retriever

Many husky Labs have one blue eye and one brown eye.

Siberpoo

Although a lack of documentation makes it unclear, the first Siberpoo was probably bred in either the 1970s or 1980s.

Silky Terrier

Silky terriers can be trained to participate in many events, including herding, agility, rally, tracking and fly ball.

Silver Labrador

The Labrador is the most popular breed in the United States and most of these dogs have blue eyes at a young age, before they turn another color.

Skye Terrier

Skye terriers are the oldest terrier breed, dating back at least 400 years.

Smooth Fox Terrier

These dogs are known for their fast digging abilities.

Snorkie

Snorkies are known for their funny, attention-getting antics.

Spanador

The Spanador is a good swimmer.

Spanish Mastiff

Diego Velázquez’s famous 17th century painting of the Infanta and her dwarves includes a portrait of a Spanish Mastiff.

Spinone Italiano

They're one of the oldest hunting breeds on Earth.

Springerdoodle

Stabyhoun

It is a versatile, all-around working breed and pet.

Staffordshire Bull Terrier

Known for their loyalty to their family!

Standard Schnauzer

This dog’s facial hair makes it look like it has a beard.

Swedish Vallhund

Taco Terrier

Taco terriers are known by a variety of names, including the Chitoxy Toy and the Chiwoxy.

Tamaskan

Teddy Roosevelt Terrier

Often just called 'Teddies' by owners

Tenterfield Terrier

These terriers have quick minds and fast feet making them excellent for agility competitions.

Terrier

Terriers were once the greatest dogs in the world.

Texas Heeler

Though they are loyal to their family, these dogs can be shy around strangers.

Thai Ridgeback

In their native Thailand, Thai Ridgebacks were used to hunt cobras.

Tibetan Mastiff

Originally bred in the Himalayan mountains!

Tibetan Spaniel

Originally bred to be a companion dog in Tibetan Buddhist lamaseries.

Tibetan Terrier

Tibetan terriers have round, flat, “snow shoe” feet that evolved to give them traction on snowy Himalayan paths

Torkie

The Torkie has a soft silky coat

Toy Fox Terrier

Hunters still use the toy fox to go into a fox's den and flush the animal out.

Toy Poodle

The word poodle is derived from German, and it means to splash or puddle.

Transylvanian Hound

The Transylvanian Hound is also known as the Erdelyi Kopo in Hungarian

Treeing Tennessee Brindle

Coarse baying cries during the hunt changes at the tree

Treeing Walker Coonhound

The breed has several distinctive vocalizations, such as a long, yodeling call when he is on the hunt, and a short repeating bark once he trees his prey. Whining is normal as he anticipates the hunt.

Utonagan

Vizsla

Vizsla means searcher or tracker in Hungarian

Volpino Italiano

Almost went extinct before American Eskimo Dog breeders showed interest.

Weimaraner

The Weimaraner is nicknamed the gray ghost.

Weimardoodle

This dog is also known as the Weimarpoo, the Weimaranerpoo, and the Weimaranerdoodle.

Welsh Corgi

There are two distinct breeds!

Welsh Terrier

The Welsh Terrier has the strength and tenacity to take on foxes and badgers.

West Highland Terrier

Most commonly white in colour!

Westiepoo

This dog is known for cocking its head in a curious manner when listening to its owner.

Wheaten Terrier

Originally bred as a farm dog, the Wheaten Terrier can be very protective of its domain.

Whippet

Quiet, gentle and restful dogs!

Whoodle

Whoodles are good swimmers

Wire Fox Terrier

The Wire Fox Terrier was bred from the now extinct Rough Coated Black and Tan Terrier to hunt down foxes.

Wirehaired Pointing Griffon

A Wirehaired Pointing Griffon’s coat makes it look like it has a mustache and beard!

Xoloitzcuintli

The Xoloitzcuintli is the national dog of Mexico

Yakutian Laika

The Yakute people were likely the first to use dogs to pull sleds, so the Yakutian Laika was probably among the first sled dogs.

Yoranian

These dogs are very intelligent and are great with children.

Yorkie Bichon

Yorkie Bichons can come in a wide range of colors including black, white, blonde, gray, golden, or dark brown.

Yorkie-poo

The Yorkie-Poo originated from the hybrid poodle phase of the late 20th century

Yorkshire Terrier

Highly energetic and eager for adventure!

Zuchon

The breed often changes colors throughout its life, with its puppy coat becoming lighter over the first few years of life, then darkening as he ages.

List of Dog Breeds

Dog Breeds by Letter Pages

Even More Information on Dog Breeds

There are so many fascinating things to learn about dogs! Which breeds are the smartest or most expensive? Which dog breeds are the best choices for apartment living or emotional support? What are the best names for a yellow dog versus a white dog? Here are some additional articles to check out if you want to learn more:

Types of Dogs: All Breeds From A-Z FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

What is a dog?

Any canine descended from the domesticated common ancestor of dogs and wolves, in the family Canidae, genus Canis.

What is the largest dog?

The largest dog ever depends if you’re looking at the tallest, longest or heaviest. Freddy the Great Dane in England measured 40.75 inches tall, while the Old English Mastiff Aicama Zorba in England measured 8 feet, 3 inches from nose to tail and was also the heaviest dog in the world at 343lbs. Great Danes are the tallest dog breed and English Mastiffs are the heaviest.

What is the smallest dog?

The smallest dog in terms of height is a Chihuahua in Puerto Rico named Milly, who measured 9.65 cm (3.8 in) tall. The smallest dog breed is the Chihuahua.

What did dogs evolve from?

Dogs evolved and genetically diverged from a common ancestor with wolves in the Late Pleistocene era about 11,700 years ago. The grey wolf is the closest living relative of the dog, with cross-breeding having occurred during the dog’s domestication. There is no agreement as to when dogs were domesticated, but the process occurred somewhere around 11,000 years ago when hunter-gatherers closely associated with live populations of aurochs, beer, sheep and goats after beginning an association with wolves.

What are the different types of dogs?

There are 7 types of dogs: Sporting, Hound, Herding, Working, Terrier, Toy and Non-sporting.

What is the scientific name for a dog?

Canis familiaris is the scientific name for a dog if it’s considered a distinct species from the wolf. It’s Canis lupus familiaris if considered a subspecies of the wolf.

What is the most dangerous dog breed?

Prey dogs are considered to be the most dangerous due to their strong bite and large muscle mass. The Pit Bull is currently said to be the most dangerous dog breed, although the Rottweiler and Inu also have a reputation for being dangerous at different times or in different areas of the world.

Are Dogs really color blind?

No, they do not see in black-and-white. However, they are red-green color-blind.

What are some examples of small dog breeds?

Chihuahua, Boston Terrier, Shih Tzu, Pug, and Dachshund are some small dog breeds.

Types of Dogs: All Breeds From A-Z

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Dog Scientific Name and History

Dog Characteristics

Canine teeth

Types of Dog Teeth And Their Function

Other canid features

What Do Dogs Eat? Dog Diets Explained

Dog features

Dog Exceptions

Types of Dogs

Sporting dogs

Hound dogs

Working dogs

Herding dogs

Terrier dogs

Toy dogs

Non-sporting dogs

Dog-wolf hybrids

Types of Dogs