Different Types (Breeds) of Dogs and their Characteristics

Dogs are the most common pet in the United States and come in a variety of shapes and sizes. Each breed of dog has unique characteristics that determine how they will interact with their environment and people.

It is important to understand these differences before bringing a dog into your home to ensure that you are selecting the right breed for your lifestyle. This blog post will explore some of the most popular dog breeds and their defining features.

Different Dog Breeds

Afghan Hound

Afghan Hounds are a very old dog breed dating back to before 400 BC. They are believed to be descendants of the Saluki, a dog from ancient Egypt. They were bred as hunting dogs in Afghanistan and brought to England in the early 1900s.

Afghan Hounds are tall, slender dogs with long,silky coats that come in many colors including black, white, fawn, red, and brindle.

They have a narrow head with long ears and distinctive eyebrows that give them an exotic look. They are considered one of the most beautiful dog breeds in the world.

Afghan Hounds are gentle and loving animals that make great companions. They require plenty of exercises and should not be kept cooped up for long.

Akita Inu

The Akita Inu is a large, sturdy dog breed that originated in Japan. They are known for their loyalty and protective nature, and make excellent guard dogs.

Akitas have a thick double coat that comes in a variety of colors, and require regular grooming to keep it healthy.

They are typically good with children and other pets when properly socialized, but can be dominant with other dogs. Akitas require plenty of exercise and should be kept in a fenced-in area to prevent them from wandering off.

American Bully

The American Bully is a dog breed that was developed in the United States. It is a descendant of the American Pit Bull Terrier, and is bred for certain physical characteristics such as its muscular build and broad head.

The American Bully is an affectionate and gentle breed that typically makes a great family pet. It is known for being very loyal to its owner and protective of its family.

These dogs are also quite active and need plenty of exercise to stay healthy and happy.

American Pit Bull Terrier

The American Pit Bull Terrier is a muscular and solidly built dog that was originally bred for bull-baiting and dogfighting. Today, it is a loving and loyal family pet.

These dogs are brave, have high energy levels, and are very people-oriented. They need plenty of exercises and can be quite playful.

The American Pit Bull Terrier may be too strong for small children and should be supervised around them. While generally good with other pets, they may become territorial with strange animals.

American Staffordshire Terrier

The American Staffordshire Terrier is a muscular, medium-sized dog breed that is often confused with the Pit Bull.

They are both bred from the same English bulldog ancestor, but the American Staffordshire Terrier has been bred specifically for dogfighting while the Pit Bull has been bred as a companion animal.

American Staffordshire Terriers are known for their strength, intelligence, and loyalty. They make great family pets, but should be supervised around small children due to their high energy level and strong jaws.

Bernese Mountain Dog

Bernese Mountain Dogs are a large, sturdy dog breed that was originally used as a working dog in the Alps of Switzerland.

They are known for their long, thick coat of fur which comes in three color – black, tan, and white. Berners typically weigh between 70 and 115 pounds and stand about 24-27 inches tall at the shoulder.

Due to their size, Berner Mountain Dogs require plenty of exercise and room to roam. They are an intelligent breed and are good with children if properly socialized early on.

However, they can also be prone to separation anxiety when left alone for long periods of time. Overall, the Bernese Mountain Dog is a loyal, loving family dog that is sure to bring joy to any pet parent.

Bichon Frise

The Bichon Frise is a small, cheerful dog that is often chosen as a pet because of its gentle disposition and easy-to-care-for coat. They weigh around 12 to 20 pounds and stand about 10 to 11 inches tall at the shoulder.

The Bichon Frise’ coat is naturally white but can also be cream, apricot, or gray. They have a curly coat that does not shed and should be brushed every day to keep it looking its best.

Because they do not shed, they are a good choice for people with allergies.

Bichons are intelligent dogs and can be easily trained. They love to please their owners and make good family pets.

Boerboel

The Boerboel is a large, powerful dog breed that was originally bred in South Africa as a working dog. These dogs are known for their muscular build, thick coat, and calm demeanor.

They are typically used as guard dogs or as working dogs on farms.

Boerboels are loyal and protective family companions and make excellent guard dogs. They are intelligent and easy to train, but they can be somewhat independent thinkers.

These dogs require a lot of exercises and can be aggressive towards other animals if not properly socialized.

Border Collie

Border Collies are incredibly smart and energetic dogs that love to work. They were originally bred as working dogs for herding sheep, and they have the energy and intelligence to do so effectively.

Border Collies are also very athletic and enjoy running and playing fetch. They make great pets for active families, but they may not be the best choice for people who are looking for a lazy dog to lounge around the house with.

Boston Terrier

Boston Terriers are small, spunky dogs that make great companions. They are known for their gentle temperaments and playful personalities.

As with all dog breeds, it is important to properly socialize and train Boston Terriers when they are young so that they grow up to be well-adjusted members of the family.

Boston Terriers typically weigh around 25 pounds and stand about 15 inches tall at the shoulder. They have short, smooth coats that come in a variety of colors, including black, brindle, and seal.

Boston Terriers are the only breed of dog that is indigenous to the United States.

Boxer

Boxers are a type of dog that is known for their playful and energetic nature. They make great family dogs and are wonderful with children.

Boxers are also very intelligent, so they can be easily trained. They are typically short in stature and have a short coat that is easy to groom.

Bulldog

Bulldogs are a muscular and stocky breed of dog. They have a short, stubby muzzle and a wide head. Bulldogs come in a variety of colors, including black, white, brindle, and fawn.

Bulldogs are known for their friendly temperament and docile nature. They are good with children and make great family pets.

Bulldogs require minimal exercise and are prone to obesity if not exercised regularly. They are also prone to health problems such as allergies, skin problems, and breathing difficulties.

Bull Terrier

Bull Terriers are a medium-sized dog breed that is characterized by its unique head shape and muscular build. They are known for being friendly and good with children, but they also make excellent guard dogs.

Bull Terriers require a lot of exercises and can be prone to obesity, so it’s important to keep them active.

Cane Corso

The Cane Corso is a large Italian breed of dog that was originally used as a guard dog. They are muscular dogs with short coat that comes in a variety of colors, including black, blue, fawn, and brindle.

They have a black muzzle and dark eyes. Cane Corsos are intelligent and protective dogs who make good family pets. They require plenty of exercises and can be challenging to train.

Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are a small breed of dog that was originally bred in the United Kingdom. They are known for their friendly and outgoing personalities, as well as their beautiful coats of fur.

Cavalier King Charles Spaniels make great pets for families with children because they are so gentle and loving.

They also require very little exercise, making them the perfect choice for people who don’t have a lot of time to spend on walks.

Overall, Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are an excellent choice for anyone looking for a friendly and low-maintenance pet.

Chihuahua

The Chihuahua is a small breed of dog that originated in Mexico. They are the smallest breed of dog recognized by the American Kennel Club and the Royal Canin Breed Club.

They typically weigh between 2 and 6 pounds and stand 6 to 9 inches tall at the shoulder. They have a long, slender body and wedge-shaped head with large ears.

The coat can be either short or long and comes in a variety of colors including black, white, brown, fawn, blue, and pink.

Chihuahuas make good pets for people who live in apartments or small homes since they are very active indoors and don’t require a lot of space. They are also very loyal and protective.

Chow Chow

Chow Chow is a dog breed that is known for its thick fur coat, which comes in a variety of colors including black, blue, red, and cinnamon.

They are medium-to-large-sized dogs and are one of the oldest dog breeds in the world. Chow Chows are known for being loyal and protective family dogs.

Dachshund

The Dachshund is a small, elongated breed of dog with short legs and a deep chest. They are considered scent hounds, bred to hunt badgers and other small game.

Today, they are popular as family pets and typically come in three coat varieties – smooth, wirehaired, and Longhaired.

They range in weight from 8-32 pounds and stand 6-9 inches high at the shoulder. Dachshunds typically have an outgoing personality and make good companions.

Dalmatian

The Dalmatian is a breed of dog known for its white coat with black or brown spots. Originally used as a carriage dog in Europe, the Dalmatian is now a popular pet and show dog.

The breed has a long history and was first mentioned in 16th century England. The dogs were used to run alongside carriages and clear the way by chasing away other animals.

They were also employed as guard dogs. Today, they are often used as guide dogs for the blind or deaf.

Dalmatians stand about 19-24 inches tall at the shoulder and weigh anywhere from 45 to 70 pounds. They have an athletic build and are considered good-natured family pets. They are also known for being able to run fast.

Dobermann

The Dobermann is a breed of dog that was originally developed around the 1870s by Karl Friedrich Louis Dobermann, a tax collector from Germany.

He wanted a dog that could guard him and his money while he was working, and the Dobermann eventually evolved into the breed we know today.

Dobermanns are medium to large dogs, and they typically have short coats that come in black, red, brown, or tan. They’re known for being intelligent and energetic animals with strong protective instincts.

They make good family pets but can be territorial so they may not be ideal for everyone.

English Cocker Spaniel

The English Cocker Spaniel is a breed of dog that originated in England. They are a hunting dog that was originally used to flush out gamebirds. They are now used as companion dogs and family pets.

The English Cocker Spaniel is a medium-sized, compact dog that has a square body shape. They have a broad head with a defined stop and medium-length muzzle.

Their ears are set high and close to the head, and their eyes are dark and round. They have a docked tail and feathered coat. Their coat can be any color except solid black, liver, or white.

The English Cocker Spaniel is an active dog that requires plenty of exercises. They make good hunting companions.

French Bulldog

French Bulldogs are a small breed of dog that is known for its wrinkled face and bat-like ears. They are a playful and affectionate breed that makes great pets for families with children.

French Bulldogs require minimal exercise, making them a good choice for people who don’t have a lot of time to spend walking their dog.

However, they do need to be groomed regularly to keep their coat healthy and free of mats. French Bulldogs can be prone to certain health problems, including respiratory problems, joint problems, and eye problems.

German Shepherd

German Shepherds are large, working dogs of the herding group. They are intelligent, alert, and loyal.

They have a double coat- a dense undercoat for insulation and a harsh outer coat for protection from the elements. They come in a variety of colors including black, tan, sable, and blue.

German Shepherds are bred as working dogs and excel in many different roles including police work, search and rescue, guide dog work, therapy dog work, drug detection, and bomb detection.

They make excellent family pets but need plenty of exercise and room to run. German Shepherds are prone to hip dysplasia and other health problems so it is important to find a reputable breeder when purchasing one.

Golden Retriever

Golden Retrievers are one of the most popular dog breeds in America for a reason – they make great pets! They’re friendly, loving, and good with kids. Here’s a quick description of this breed:

The Golden Retriever is a large breed of dog that was originally bred as a hunting dog. They have a thick fur coat that can come in a variety of colors, including golden, light brown, dark brown, black, and white.

They are known for their gentle temperament and love of people, making them an excellent choice for families with children. They are also very smart dogs and are often used as service dogs.

Goldendoodle

Goldendoodles are a hybrid dog breed that is the result of a cross between a Golden Retriever and a Poodle. They are often referred to as “designer dogs” because they have become increasingly popular in recent years.

Goldendoodles are typically friendly, intelligent, and great with children. They also tend to be quite active and require plenty of exercise. Goldendoodles can vary in size, but they typically weigh anywhere from 30-70 pounds.

Great Dane

The Great Dane is a large dog breed known for its gentle temperament and is often referred to as a Gentle Giant.

They typically stand around 34 inches tall at the shoulder and weigh anywhere from 120-200 pounds. Their short, smooth coat comes in a variety of colors including black, fawn, harlequin, merle, and brindle.

Due to its large size, the Great Dane requires plenty of space and exercise. They are not recommended for apartment living and make excellent family dogs who are good with children.

Because of their laid-back personality, they are also great dogs for seniors.

Greyhound

Greyhounds are a type of dog that was originally bred for hunting. They are thin and tall with long legs, and they come in a variety of colors including black, white, brown, and tan.

Greyhounds make great pets because they are typically very friendly and good with children. They also have a lot of energy so they are great for people who like to go for walks or runs.

However, because of their size, Greyhounds may not be the best choice for people who live in small apartments.

Havanese

The Havanese is a toy dog breed that originated in Cuba. These dogs are known for being cheerful, playful, and loving. They make wonderful family pets and are good with children.

The Havanese is also one of the most hypoallergenic dog breeds, making them a good choice for families with allergies.

These dogs typically weigh between 7 and 13 pounds and stand 10 to 11 inches tall at the shoulder. They come in a wide variety of colors including white, black, brown, buff, silver, and blue.

Jack Russell Terrier

Jack Russell Terriers were originally bred in England to hunt foxes. They are small, muscular dogs with a strong hunting instinct. They are tenacious and fearless and make excellent rodent control predators.

Jack Russells require plenty of exercise and can be quite destructive if not given enough activity. They are intelligent dogs that require a lot of training and socialization, and they should not be left alone for long periods of time.

Jack Russells can be good family pets but may not be suitable for households with very young children because of their high energy level and strong hunting instinct.

Kangal Shepherd Dog

The Kangal Shepherd Dog is a livestock guardian dog that was bred in the Sivas province of Turkey. They are bred to be large, muscular dogs with a thick double coat that can withstand the cold winters and hot summers of their native land.

They have a calm and gentle temperament, and are known for their protective instincts around livestock. Kangal Shepherd Dogs make excellent family pets, but should not be considered as an option for first-time dog owners.

Labrador Retriever

Labrador Retrievers (Labradors) are one of the most popular dog breeds in the world. They are known for their friendly, playful nature and their love of water.

Labradors make great family dogs and are also often used as working dogs because of their intelligence and versatility.

Labradors range in size from about 21 to 24 inches tall at the shoulder, and they typically weigh between 55 and 80 pounds.

They have a short, smooth coat that can come in a variety of colors, including black, yellow, chocolate, and gray. Labradors are a very active breed and need plenty of exercises.

They should not be kept in an apartment or small home; instead, they should have a large yard or access to regular outdoor activities.

Labradoodle

Labradoodles are a type of dog that is a crossbreed between a Labrador Retriever and a Poodle.

They are often bred because they are considered to be hypoallergenic, meaning that they do not shed as much hair like other dogs and are less likely to cause an allergic reaction in people.

Labradoodles can come in many different shapes and sizes, but they typically have short hair and can be black, brown, or white in color.

They are a popular pet choice for many people because of their friendly personality and easy-to-care-for coat.

Maltese Dog

The Maltese is a small, sprightly dog that was originally bred in the Mediterranean region. These days, they are popular all over the world as companion animals.

Maltese dogs are known for their luxurious white coat of hair, which needs to be brushed and groomed regularly to prevent it from matting. They have a playful personalities and love spending time with their families.

They also make good watchdogs, as they are always alert and quick to sound the alarm if there’s something unusual going on.

Generally speaking, Maltese dogs weigh between 4 and 7 pounds and live for 10-12 years. They are prone to certain health problems such as patellar luxation (dislocation of the knee).

Maltipoo

The Maltipoo is a cross between a Maltese and a Poodle. They are typically very small dogs, weighing only 4-8 pounds. They have long, silky hair that can be black, white, or any color in between.

They are generally friendly and good with children. Because they are crossbreed, they can have a range of personality and temperament traits from either of their parents.

Miniature Pinscher

Miniature Pinschers are small, compact dogs that were originally bred in Germany to hunt vermin. They have a smooth coat and are typically black and tan in color, but they can also be red, blue, or fawn.

Miniature Pinschers are intelligent and energetic dogs who require plenty of exercise. They make good family pets and are known for their protective instincts.

They can be a bit nippy with strangers, so they may not be the best choice for households with young children.

Miniature Schnauzer

Miniature Schnauzers are one of the most popular breeds of dogs in the world. They are a small breed of dog that is known for its playful and energetic personality, as well as its loyal and protective nature.

Miniature Schnauzers make excellent family pets, and are known for being good with children. They are also very easy to groom and care for, which makes them a popular choice for those who live in urban areas.

Newfoundland Dog

Newfoundland is a large working dog breed from Canada. Descended from dogs used by fisherman in Newfoundland, the breed is famous for its giant size, gentle nature, and swimming ability.

Newfoundlands are often used as search and rescue dogs because of their strength, swimming ability, calm demeanor, and thick fur coats that protect them from cold water.

The breed is prone to obesity and hip dysplasia. Some Newfoundlands may suffer from a genetic form of epilepsy called “Newfie blindness”. They are also known to drool and slobber excessively.

Papillon

The Papillon is a small, sprightly dog that was originally bred in France as a companion dog. They are known for their large, pendulous ears which give them their characteristic “butterfly” look.

These dogs are intelligent and affectionate, and make excellent family pets. They do well with children and other animals, but may be a little too active for some people.

Papillons need plenty of exercise and enjoy long walks or games of fetch. They are generally healthy dogs, but may be prone to ear infections due to their large ears.

Pekingese

The Pekingese is a small, sturdy dog with a pushed-in face and a heavy coat. They are known for being loyal and loving companions.

Pekes are considered to be one of the most stubborn dog breeds; however, they are also very intelligent. They have a lot of personality and are typically good with children. Because of their thick coat, these dogs require regular grooming.

Pembroke Welsh Corgi

The Pembroke Welsh Corgi is a small dog breed that originated in Wales. These dogs are known for their short legs, long body, and pointy ears. They make great family pets because they are loving, protective, and playful.

Pembroke Welsh Corgis are also very smart dogs and can be easily trained. They do best when they have plenty of exercise, so make sure to take your Corgi on walks or to the park often.

Pomeranian

Pomeranians are toy-sized dogs that weigh between 3 and 7 pounds. They have a thick, double coat of fur that can come in a variety of colors, including black, white, brown, orange, sable, merle, and brindle.

Poms are known for being friendly and lively little dogs who make great companions. They’re active and playful but also enjoy cuddling up on the couch.

Because of their thick coats of fur, they do well in cold weather but should not be left out in hot weather for too long.

Poms require regular grooming to keep their coats looking neat and tidy. They’re also prone to dental problems so it’s important to brush their teeth regularly.

Poodle

Poodles are one of the most popular dog breeds in the world and for good reason. They’re loving, intelligent, and make great companions.

Poodles come in three sizes: standard, miniature, and toy. They have a thick coat of fur that can be either curly or straight, and they come in a variety of colors including black, white, brown, apricot, and red.

Poodles are often used as service dogs because they’re so intelligent and well-trained. They’re also great family pets who love to play fetch and go on walks.

If you’re looking for a furry friend to keep you company, a poodle is definitely the right dog for you!

Pug

Pugs are a small, compact breed of dog with a wrinkled face and a curly tail. They are known for their sense of humor and their characteristic grunts and snorts.

Pugs make great pets because they are very affectionate and love to be around people. They also make good watchdogs, since they will bark at anything that seems suspicious.

Rottweiler

Rottweilers are a large, sturdy dog breed that was originally used as a working dog. They are known for their strength, intelligence, and obedience.

Rottweilers make excellent guard dogs and are often used by police and military personnel. They require a lot of exercise, and can be quite energetic, but with proper training, they can make great family pets.

Sarabi Dog

The Sarabi dog is a medium-sized crossbreed that is known for its gentle, affectionate nature. This breed is great with children and makes an ideal family pet.

They are also good with other pets and tend to be very loyal to their owners. The Sarabi dog has a short, easy-to-care-for coat and requires minimal grooming.

They are an energetic breed that loves to play and run, so they require plenty of exercises.

Samoyed

Samoyeds are a large, white-furred dog breed that was originally used as a working dog in Siberia. They are known for their thick, luxuriant coat, which keeps them warm in cold climates.

They have a friendly and outgoing personality and make good family pets. Samoyeds require a lot of exercise, and need to be kept active or they will become bored and destructive.

They are not recommended for apartment living; they do best when they have access to a large yard where they can run around and play. Samoyeds are prone to several health problems, including hip dysplasia, bloat, and cancer.

Shar Pei

Shar Peis are a Chinese dog breed. They are known for their wrinkled skin, and are one of the oldest dog breeds in the world.

Shar Peis were originally bred as working dogs, and were used for tasks such as hunting, herding, and guarding. Today, they are popular pets due to their friendly nature and adorable appearance.

Shiba Inu

Shiba Inus are a breed of dog that is known for being independent and stubborn. They are also known for being loyal and good with children.

Shiba Inus are typically about 12-16 inches tall and weigh between 17-23 pounds. They have a thick, double coat of fur that comes in a variety of colors, including black, red, sesame (black and red), white, cream, and gray.

Shiba Inus are an ancient breed of dog that traces its lineage back over 2000 years.

Shih Tzu

The Shih Tzu is a small, sturdy dog breed with a long coat. They are typically friendly and make great family pets.

Shih Tzus are known for their playful personality and love of attention. They require regular brushing and grooming to keep their coats healthy and free of mats.

Siberian Husky

Siberian Huskies are considered a working dog breed, and they were originally bred in Siberia to pull sleds.

They’re also known for being one of the most versatile dog breeds because they can be used for sledding, dogsledding, racing, carting, weight pulling, and skijoring.

Huskies are typically quite active and playful, and they require a lot of exercises. They’re also known for being quite vocal, and many people describe their howling as “beautiful”.

They tend to get along well with children and other pets, but since they were bred to work in packs, they can sometimes be too demanding for some families.

St. Bernard

Saint Bernard is a breed of very large working dog from the Alps in northern Italy and Switzerland. They are impressive dogs, standing at least 71 cm (28 inches) at the shoulder.

The main purpose of the St. Bernard was to act as a rescue dog in the cold mountain passes.

They are able to withstand very low temperatures and harsh weather conditions, and have been known to rescue people lost in snowstorms or avalanches.

Their thick coat of fur keeps them warm, while their webbed feet make them good swimmers. They are generally good-natured dogs, but can be protective of their family and territory.

Yorkshire Terrier

The Yorkshire Terrier is a small, toy-sized dog breed that was originally bred in England for rat hunting. Yorkies weigh around 7 pounds and stand about 6-10 inches tall at the shoulder.

They have long, silky coats that can be any color (or combination of colors), and their hair is parted down the middle with a long fringe on either side of their face.

Yorkies are high-energy dogs who love to play and run, and they make great indoor dogs for people who have limited outdoor space. They are also very intelligent and learn quickly, making them easy to train.

Yorkies typically live 10-12 years.

READ MORE: Dog breeds that do well with invisible fences.